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ROYAL GAROENS REW,

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December 23, 1393 ]

THE

JOURNAL or HORTICULTURE,

/

COTTAGE GARDENER,

AND

HOME FAHMEH.

A CHRONICLE OF COUNTRY PURSUITS AND COUNTRY LIFE, INCLUDING BEE-KEEPING

CONDUCTED BY

ROBERT HOGG, LL.D.. F.L.S.

E stablished

VOLUME XXVII. THIRD SERIES.

JTJEY - DEOEMBEH, 1803.

LONDON :

PUBLISHED FOE THE PEOPEIETOE, 171, FLEET STREET.

• .■*

I

1

I

LONDON :

PRINTED AT THE JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE OFFICE,
1 71, FLEET STREET.

THK JOUBHA.L OF HORTICULTCRB AND COTTAGB QARDKNEB, December M, 1893. ]

TO OUR READERS.

The years whirl round apace, and the more there are of them the quicker do the seasons appear to
come in their turn. This will be the experience of all our old friends and helpers, and they will feel,
as we do, that speeding time is made the more pleasant by the good influences of the gardens which
they love to tend, and from which they derive health and inspiration. May their garden pleasures be
much prolonged, not for themselves alone, but for others who benefit by their experiences as detailed
by facile pens.

To the younger, but yet strong, as if in their zenith, the time will glide more steadily, and they
we hope shall have a long, useful, and prosperous career before them. It will not be less so by their
endeavours to incite in others the love of gardens they themselves enjoy, and by their efforts in imparting
knowledge on subjects pertaining to the craft they adorn.

To the younger still — the probationers in that craft — time may seem to drag ; to some their work
may be hard, and they look longingly onward to what they hope may be an easier life. Their time will
come, and it depends on themselves, and the assistance given them, whether they will fill the positions
they will occupy as worthily as do men who fill them now, and as those who have gone before. We
counsel young men to strive for knowledge and to win respect, and we trust those in authority over them
will aid them in the commendable desire.

We rejoice in having the co-operation of men, amateurs and gardeners, of ripe experience, as well as
of young men of great promise, and therefore it is that we are enabled to make the pages of the Journal
of Horticulture not only substantial, but bright — even sometimes lively — and it is gratifying to know that our
readers are satisfied. A gardener writes: —

“ Besides the practical knowledge that I have gained from the Journal, I have learned to love
gardening for its own sake, and that makes arduous duties appear light. As a result I have been able to
give the utmost satisfaction to my employers, and have good recommendations from them. ... 1 have to
seek a fresh field of labour, but I still hope to be able to show that the teaching of the Journal has not
been thrown away on me. Long may Editors and staff continue to advise, instruct, commend, and not to
forget wholesome reproof where needed. ... I make no apology for troubling, as you have forgotten to
despise the small gardener.”

Despise the small gardener! We have just the same respect for able men, who are doing their duty
creditably and well in small gardens, as for those in large ones. Some of the great gardeners of the day
won their spurs in small gardens, and we are glad to know that not a few managers of these small gardens
are as happy in their homes as are the gardeners of lords and dukes. We trust our appreciative pupil
has found a comfortable home.

A correspondent, who is not a gardener, but a country gentleman in the Midlands, has written to us
from Biarritz : —

“ I he Journal of Horticulture is one of the very few papers I have sent on here. I have had splendid
crops at home — beaten my ‘ practical ’ neighbours in growing Swedes, Mangolds, Oats, and Parsnips — by
following your rules. Your Farm Notes are splendid. If ‘practical ’ farmers would follow them as the amateur
does, I do not think we should hear much more of the impractical — viz , a duty on corn imported.”

We have said our Readers are satisfied; so are we, and we thank all most cordially, amateurs and
gardeners, old and young, for contributing so ably in making the Journal of Horticulture the welcome guest
it undoubtedly is in the homes of the wealthy and the workers in this and other lands.

Our best wishes to all for a happy close of the old year and an equally happy opening of the new.

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December 28, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

INDEX.

ACACU 6RANDIS, 88
Achimenee, at Keadicg, 32; in
baskets at Chatswonb, 80
Acidanthera seqniL octialis, 77
ACchmea Maria! Regina:, 401
Aerldes, notes on, S ; Sanderl-
annm,215
After the rain, 47
Agathaja coelestls, 468
Agave Leopold II., 335
Aglaonema rotnndnm (pnmi-
Inm), 297, 379 . 400
Agricnltnral College, a new, 171
Agricultural Hall Show, report
of 191, 219; comments on, 224
Agricultural science, 9
Albert Nurseries, Peckham
Rye, 531

Allamanda Williams!, 171
Allotments, at Richmond, 8; at
Kingston-on-Thames, 334
Alocasia Chantrieri, 297
Aloes, variegated, 266
Alstroemeria aurantiaca, 30
Amaryllis, the blue, 102 ; bella¬
donna, 875

American Ginseng, 88
Ames, Mr. F. L., death of, 313
Analysis of soils, 347, 369
Anemones, polyanthe 8,184 ; St.
Brigid’s (A. coronaria semi-
plena), 504, 574 ; fulgens, 549
Anglo-American day, an, 69
Angus, Mr. A. K., death of, 553
Annuals, showing, 66
Anomatheca cruenta, 99
Anthemis, extraordinary fascia-
tlon in, 125

Anti-blight powders, 201
Anthracnose in Vines, 221
Antirrhinums, white, 197, 219,
583

Ants, destroying, SOO
Antwerp Exhibition, the, 534
ApEs life, peculiarities of, and
east winds, 94

Apples, market, 76; New Zea¬
land Apples in London, 76 ;
early, 102; from the Hima¬
layas, 163; Japanese, 149;
Bismarck, origin of, 164; at
Swanmore, 187; gathering
and storing, 206 ; notes on
varieties, 213; Benont, 282 ;
in cool chambers, 221 ; in
Durham, 242 ; scarcity of
dessert Apples, 242; Benoni,
242; a fine crop of Peasgood’s
Nonesuch, 246 ; cheap, 244 ; in
America, 245 ; American
Baldwin in England, 255 ;
The Lady, 800 ; Wealthy, 817 ;
Ecklinville, 317; Duchess of
Oldenburg, 317 ; Peasgood’s
Nonesuch, 317; from seed,
3 2; large soft, 355, 376 ;
at Covent Garden, 355 ; the
best county for, 375 ; trans¬
parent patches In flesh, 388;
dressing wounds of Apple
tree, 388 ; in Surrey, 40i ;
an imminent scarcity of, 437 ;
preserving, 443; the keeping
of, 465 ; the premature decay
of, 487 ; Baldwin in England,
488; a good crop of Rymer,
489; losing flavour, 439;
keeping, 508 ; mineral con¬
stituents ot, 622 ; American,
528 ; Gloeosporlum fructi-
genum, 544; American. 548;
some good, 572; Gascoigne’s
Seedling, 588

Apples and Pears at Woedhall,
295

Apple blossom weevil, 580
Apricots, from open air stand¬
ards, 163

Aquarium (Royal) Show, 341
Araucaria wood, 221
Arboricultural (Royal) Society,
Scottish, 178

Arlstolochia Slpho seeding, 554
Ashford Vineries, 294
Asparagus forcing, 565
August heat and garden pro¬
duce, 163

Auricula and Primula (Na¬
tional) Society’s report, 401
Australian fruit, 76
Autumn foliage and berries,
891

BiCTERIA, IN TOMATOES, 79,
99, 325, 372 ; microscope for
examining, 545

Binanas at Knightshayes
Court, 576

Banbury Onion and Vegetable
Show, 275

Bank Holiday engagements,
115

Banksia integrlfolia, 435

Barford Hill Gardens, 152

Barlerlas, 155

Battersea Park, 215

Beale, Mr. H. E. C., death of,

354

Beans, Scarlet Runners not
setting, 80, 106, 117, 168 ; at
Malden Erleigh, Runner,

355

Bedding In tropical weather,
summer, 258

Betiding plants, propagating,
212

Bees— Puniea, swarming, 20 ;
Punlcs and crossed Syrians,
43 ; swarming, 43 ; at the
moors, 65, 88, 111, 135, 208, 231 ;
preparing for winter, 208 ;
Punics, 88, 111 ; swarms

not working. 111 ; Scottish
decision on swarms, 159 ;
at the Heather, can bees
count ’i* 183 ; do bees fly in a
straight line? 183; useful
hints, 254 : robber bees, 254 ;
home from the moors, 277 ;
practical hints for beginners,
321, 343, 366, 887, 433, 480, 500 ;
supering, 387 ; hives and
honey, 412 ; the season of
1893, 434; presentation of
honey to the Lord Mayor,
434; repairing hives, 458 ;
storms and wrappings, 458;
foul brood, 458 ; earwigs and
bees, 458 ; the weather, feed¬
ing, 480; in Yorkshire, 500 ;
Lanarkshire storlfying hive.
544 ; and the weather, 565 ;
humble bees in New Zealann,
565 ; in 1893, comb building,
spreading brood, 582
Begonias, at Swanley, 9 ; at
Bexley, 33; seed, sowing,
66 ; at Henbury Hill, 267 ;
Duchess of York, 297 ; (tuber¬
ous) as bedding plants, 310;
at Forest Hill, 310 ; summer
and winter, 374; John Heal,
419 ; Gloire de Lorraine, 565
Belladonna Lily seeding, 375
Besson, Monsieur Antoine,
death of, 469
Bexley Begonias, 33
Birds, our, 177 ; and the fruit,
266

Birkbeck Bank, 33
Birmingham and District Ama¬
teur Gardeners’ Association,
468, 533 , „

Blackberries, culture of, 552
Black fly, winter condition of,

BlMdford Horticultural So¬
ciety, 172 , ,

Blood and wood ashes, mixing,
622

Blood manure, making, 459

Bogue, Mr. G., death of, 317
Bone ash as a manure, 566
Bone manures, 480
Bone9,in Chrysanthemum pots,
112; and kalnit, applying
dissolved, 322

Books— "The Garden Story,” .55;
“ British Fungus Flora,” 66 ;
'* Art Out of Doors,” 250 ; “ Tea
Roses : How to grow and ex¬
hibit them,” 558
Boronia polygalifolia, 88
Botanical Congress, first inter¬
national, 375

Botanic (Royal) Society’s
evening f6te, 34 ; scientific
work, 149 ; meetings and
shows for 1894, 553
Bouquet, a remarkable, 313
Brighton and Sussex “New ”
Horticultural Societv, 491
Bristol notes— Springfield, 122 ;
Henbury Hill, 154 ; Malmaius,
155

British fungus flora, 443
Broccoli.snb- leaveson mldrlb,44
Brockhurst, jotting about, 168
Browallia macrantha, 419
Brussels Sprouts, 491
Buchan Hill, 241
Buddleia globosa in Kirkcud¬
brightshire, 76

Bulbs, forcing, 433 ; from Asia
Minor, 76

Bullfinches, trapping, 544
Bnnyard’s, Messrs. Q, & Co.,
fruit trees at, 243
Bulbophyllnm viride, 119 ;
B. spathaceum, 175

CACAO IN TRINIDAD, 468
Cadland Park, 143
Caladium Baronne de Maimore,
30

Caledonian (Royal) Horti¬
cultural Society, annual
meeting, 553 ; Shows In 1894,
575

California midwinter Inter¬
national Exposition, 236
Caila, a new rose coloured, 420 ;
a new, 443

Camellia buds dropping, 522
Campanulas persieifolia Back-
housiana alba, 3 ; granol-
flora Mariesi, 103, 124 ; nltlda
alba, 2S9

Camphor, Formosan, 289
Canker, In fruit trees, 6, 50, 10.5,
120, 467 ; Insects, 44 ; winter
treatment of, 327
Canker mite in Pear trees, 222
Cannas, new varieties certifi¬
cated, 131

Canterbury Bells, 8
Caper plant, the, 45
Cardiff, a botanic garden for,533
Carex japonica, 420
Carnation and Picotee Union
Show, 63

Carnation (National) Society s
report, 40i

Carnation and Picotee Society
(northern section). 108 ; Mid¬
land (annual report), 554
Carnations, for market, 2 ;
Margaret, 8 ; at Chelsea, 26 ;
disease, eelworms. 34 and 35 ;
National Show, 36; a fine,
101 ; at Slough, 105 ; Miss
N'na Balfour, 136; at Halton,
199; English, In America,
245 ; new, 362 ; new self, 383 ;
as an annual, the, 439 ; im¬
provement at, 444 ; plants
diseased, 566 ; Margaret. 672
Carnation shows — Mid and
Counties, 86; West of Bi g-
land, 85

Carrots, culture of, 263
Caryopteris Mastacanthus, 401
Cassia corymbosa, 289
Cata.'etum Bungerothi,269
Cattleyas, witholding water
from. 255 ; C. aurea, 237;
C. Gaskelliana.237 ; blesensis,
297 ; bicolor, 351 ; marginata,
394; Lord Rothschild, 417;
gjitrina, 605, 529

Cauliflowers in adverse sea¬
sons, 263
Cedrela, 492

Celery, and Celeriac, 135 ;
leaves decaying, 255; culture,
397 ; protecting, 479 ; deeply
planted, 508 ; decaying, 567
Cemetery, South Shields,
flowers in. 198

Cereus. Night-blooming, 6, 2 ,
Chatsworth, 80
Cherry wo id, 522
Chicago, World’s Fair, awards
to British exhibitors, 312
Chi well, a call at, 493
Chinese Bean oil, 314
Chrysanthemum (National)
Society’s annual outing, 58 ;
Committee meeting, 74. 339
537 : meeting, 224 ; Show, 233 ;
annual dinner, 6l« ; early
winter show (Aquarium), 519
Chrysanthemums, manurial
mixture for, 20 ; early flower¬
ing, 58, 271, 292; prospects,
74, 105 ; a Japanese Show,
74; in New Zealand, 74;
frozen blooms from Australia,
74 ; prospects in Ireland, eel-
worm infestation, 129 ;
“ blind ” by insect punctures,
136 ; a raiser honoured, in
New Zealand, America, and

Japan, bud lormation, 154 ;
foes, at Hey wood, 176; in
Japan, 177; early flowering,
249; Show at Bordeaux, 249;
housing, 278 ; manure water
for, 278; big blooms in
France, 290 ; bud mite, 291 ;
cerUfl''ated, 316, 445, 497, 514,
Madame Desgranges, 316 ; an
East-end show, Sheflield
Chrysanthemum Society,
Chrysanthemum.s in Ireland,
338 ; Hull and East Riding
Chrysanthemum Society’s
cups, 339 ; at Battersea Park,
352 ; at Waterlow Park,
352, 380 ; Crystal Pa'ace

Show, 352 ; Charles Davis,
352 ; awards at Aquarium
November Show, 352 ; certifi¬
cated varieties, 352, 402, 445,
614; around Liverpool, 3.52 ;
Lingdale Lodge. 352; Bos-
cobel Noctorum, 353 ; Crofton,
353; algburth Hall, 353;
Cleveley, Al erton, 353 ;
shows, 380 : Inn r Temple
Gardens, Battersea Park,
Dulwich Park. 380 ; South-
wa'-k Park, 38): F nsoury
Park, 881 ; The Priory Horn¬
sey, 381 ; around Bourne
mouth, 38l ; Craomoor Ljoge,
381; New Royal Nui series, 381;
Palace Nursery, 381 ; around
Liverpool, 381 ; Highfleld,
Woolton, 33l; Allerton House,
381; Allerton Beeche.s, 382 ;
Dove Pirk, Wuolton, 382 ;
Camp Hill. AVoolton, 382 ;
Hillside. Alleitou 382; Eim
Hall, Wavcrtrce, 382 ; Mossley
House, 882 ; Calaerstones,
382; notes on prize sche¬
dules. 382; out of date
varieties, white Viviaud
Morel, N.C.S. Committee
meeting, new (ceniflcated)
varieties, 4J2 ; causes of

CHRYSANTHEMUMS- Con¬
tinued,

damping, 402 ; The Tribune,
403; in the south, 404; at
Chelsea, 405 ; at Swanley,
Forest Hill, and Lewisham,
406 ; at Exmonth, 407 ; Mr.
Smee’s, 422 ; Lucy Kendall,
422 ; a large Vivian d Morel, 423;
white Vlviand Morel, 422 ; at
Jesmond Towers, 422 ; at the
Crystal Palace, 422 ; South
Westmoreland, 422; Maiden¬
head, 423 ; Royal Gardens,
AVlndsor, 423 ; early and semi-
early flowering Chrysanthe¬
mums, 423 ; exhibitors’
cards, 4t4; the N.C.S. and its
certificates, 444, 470, 497, 537 ;
a fracas at the Aquarium
Show, 441 ; Mdlle. Therese
Bey, 445 ; Judges and judg¬
ing. 445; a large Viviand
Morel, 445 ; white Viviand
Morel, 445 ; experiments In
Chi ysanthemnm culture, 445 ;
Charles Davis, 445,470, 497,537;
novelties at the Aquarium
Show, 445 ; at Woodville,
Keighley, 446; at Ket-
ton Hall. 446 ; Woodhatch
Lodge, 446; Svon House, 446
The Grange, Hackbridge, 446 ;
Earls wool, 446 ; protests at
shows, 470 ; Lord Rosebery,
470; cup at Grassendale Show,
470 ; Beauty of Exmouth, 470 ;
White Viviand Morel. 470 ;
next year’s shows. 470; at
Chilwell. 470 ; N.C.S. Com¬
mittee meeting, 47i; Analysis,
1885-92 , 483 ; Mr. Molyneux
in Ireland, 497. 537 ; Leon
Frache, Mdlle Marie Hoote,
497 ; an amateur’s Chrys¬
anthemums, 497; Chicago
Chrysanthemum Show, 497 ;
a curious case of judging,
503 ; new, 514 ; cups
and tubes, 515 ; new hairy
varieties, 515 ; Pompon
Florence Carr. 515 ; Incurved
Japanese, 515 ; Chrys¬
anthemum catalogues, 515 ;
Mr. Mawley’s analysis, 515;
the right bud, 516; in Ire¬
land, 516; rooting, 622; in¬
curved Japanese Chrysanthe¬
mums, 537 ; Florence Carr,
637 ; Robert Petfleld, 537 ; at
Philadelphia, U.S.A., 537 ;
Mdlle. The fese Rey, 537 ; new
Chrysanthemums, 537 ; Wa-
ban, .544 ; Greenish White,
545 ; Judges judged, verdict
gullty,5U3,529; Judges judged,
a new catechism. 553; Eva
Knowles (new), 631 ; rooting
cuttings, 661 ; incurved Japa¬
nese, 531 ; Miss Dorothea
Shea, 561 ; the “ Shoesmith ”
cup and lube, 561: hairy
Chryi.authemnms, 661 ; in
baskets. 562 ; Mars, 562 ; Mrs.
A. Hardy. 562 ; damp-resisting
Japanese Chrysanthemums,
582; habits of Chry.-anthe-
mums, a suggestion, 532 ;
judging at Edinburgh, 578;
gratting, 578 ; Mrs. J. Carter,
578; Comte F. Luranl, 579;
Elsie .and Buttercup, 6:9 ;
America, 579

Chrysanthemum shows— Ha¬
vant, 407 ; Loughborough.
408 ; Portsmouth, 408 ; Kent
County, 409 ; Ascot, 409 ;
Havant, 421; Ewell, 424 ;
Highgate, 4'5; Crystal Palace,
426; N.C.S. (Aquarium), 427:
Kingston and Surbiton, 429 ;
Brighton, 430 ; Southampton ,

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. c December 28, lasj.

vl

chrysanthsmcm; shows—
Continued.

430 ; Watford, 430 ; Leeds Pax¬
ton, 431; Putney, 431; North-
ampton, 432 ; Qutl and
East Kiding, 447 ; Grimsby
and District, 447 ; Liverpool,
447 ; Weils, 418 ; Torquay. 448;
Cirencester, 443 ; Kidder¬
minster, 450 ; Hornsey, 450 ;
Bath, 450; Bonruemouth, 450;
Weybrliige, 450 Weston-
super-Mare 451 ; Birkenhead
and Wlrral, 452 ; Gloucester,
452 ; Leather aead, 45] ;
Hitchin, 453; Windsor, 453 ;
Exeter, 453 ; Tadcaster Pax¬
ton, 451 ; Bradford and
District, 454 : Pontefract, 454 ;
Leicester, 455 ; Godaiming,
454 ; Ipswich, 455 ; Twicken¬
ham, 455 ; Croydon, 453 ;
Plymouth, 458 ; Devizes, 4'6 ;
Hull, 474; Birmingham, 473;
Kngby, 473 ; Sou'h Shields,
474 ; Bristol, 474 ; Winchester,
475 ; Park3toue,475 ; Hereford,
475 ; York. 475 ; Cudieigh, 476 ;
Melton Mowbray, 476 : Lin¬
coln, 477 ; Shepton Mallet,
477; Dublin, 477 ; Edinburgh,
477; Sheffield, 478 ; Bolton,
478 : Huyton and Roby, 478 ;
Chester Paxton Society, 497 ;
Sutton Goldfield, 498 ; Barford,
498; Eccles and Patricroft,
498; Grassendale and Aig-
burth, 4»9

Church decorations at Christ¬
mas, 547

Cider refuse as manure, 254
CImicifuga serpentaria, 188
Cirrhopetalum Brienianum, 49 ;

ornatissimum, 400 , 528
City gardens, past and present,
526 550 ; acreage of, 575
Clematis failing. 298
Clerodendrons, fallax, 125 ; tri-
chotomum, 246

Clubbing in winter greens, 151
Clumber, 284

Coboea scandens, a white, 266 ;
alba, 300

Cocoa Palm weevil, the, 334
Coeiogvnes, borneensis, 49 ;
tenuis, 119

Codonopsis (Glossocomia)
ovata, 273

Coleus Distinction, 55
Conifers, some fine, at Fel-
bridga PI tee, 354
Convo'vulns, cneornm, 89;
dwarf, 101

Cooke’s, Dr., retirement, 75
Coombe Court, 107
Copper (sulphate) and Paris
green mixtures, 142
Copperas in plant manures,
220

Coreopsis monstrosa, 108
Corlett, Mr. H., 3Sl
Cotton plant, wonders of. 290
Country charms, our, 468
Covent Garden Market, trade
in, 100; fruit, 266 ; 130 years
ago, 276; supplies, 355
Crabs, Siberian, for ornament,
125

Cratsegus azarolns, 413
Crinum capense, 66, 344
Crocus hyemalis var. Foxi, 549
Crops in South Wales, 4
Croton Russelli, 492
Crystal Palace September fruit
show, 608,580, 655, 575
Cucumbers, Peerless, 147 ; for
winter, 207, 417; gummed,
345 ; piant diseased, 366 ; root
disease, preventing, 566
Cunila Mariana, 459
Curious spelling of names, 611
Currant shoots (Black) dis¬
eased, 11

Currants, crop in Greece, 288
Cyclamen roots destroyed, 481
Cyclobothra amoena, 261
Cydonia j aponica fruiting, 312
Cypripediums, new. volontea-
nura giganteum, 27 ; Massai-
anum and Stonei Cannarte,
30 ; Winnianum, 71 ; oeno-
superbiens and Thayeria-
num, 131 ; Sander-super-
biens, 215 ; ceno-superbiens,
269 ; Charlesworthi, 297, 307 ;
Clonius, 395 ; Stattenanum.
417 ; insigne var. illnstre, 573

CV2r0Ml

DAFFODILS, THE SCILLT
ISLKS 4l9

Dahlia (Natlonai) Show, 225
Dahlias— at Rowledge, 198 ;
Octavia, Mrs, Morgan, Cap¬
tain Boyton, Miranda, Beauty
of Watford, Edith Turner,
Florence Woodland, Mrs.
Peart, Cherub, Grand Duke
Alexis, Norma, Duchess of
York, Ceres, Sovereign, 297 ;
at Salisbury, 341 ; Brilliant,
" 480

Dalkeith, 316
Datura cornucopia, 298
Davis, Mr. M., 167
Dendrobinms, Hookerlanum,
49; in autumn, 288;

Dessert table competition, 519,
531. 662

Dianthns callizonus, 126
Digging competition, 7

Dinner, competition, 115 ; con¬
test at Carshalton, 14S ; table
decoration (Mr. Dunkin’s
paper). 398

Dlsas, Kewensls, 3; lacera, 237 ;
the blue, 269

D ion, death of Mr. Isaac, 492

Dobson, Mr. Tnomas, death of,
193

D.od well, death of Mr. E. 8 , 513

D’Ombrain, Rev. H. H , daugh¬
ter, death of, 54

Dracaena indivisa aurea varie-
gata, 30

Drainage, philosophy of, 123

Draper, Mr. W. Y., death of,
355

Drongit, lessons of the,l ; and
caterpillar life, the, 174 ; in
France, 219 ; effects, 219

Dublin, jottings from; 574

Dutch flower garden, a walk
through, 363

EARL’S COURT EXHIBITION,
297. 510

Earwigs, 402 ; white, 491, 511
Eastbourne, flowers at, 76
East Lothian Garden in 1893,
559

Eel worms in Cucumber and
Tomato roots, 501
Echeveria retusa, 89
Edinburgh Botanic Gardens,
2'0, 491
Ensilage, 161

Enthusiastic veteran, an, 236
Epidendrum pnmilum, 120
Epilobium obcordatum, 179
Eria albiflora, 119
Krythrlnas, culture of, 300
Euphorbia j acquininiseflora,
55.5 ; E. pulcherrima, 555
Evening Primrose as a vege¬
table, 246

Ewell Horticultural Society, 123
Exeter Gardeners’ Society an¬
nual outing, 54

Exhibiting, curiosities in class¬
ing and judging, 222
Eynsford sho w, 149

FARM-VACANT FARMS, 21, 46,
67, (clauses from a lease), 89;
the drought and its probable
consequences, 68 ; farm
orchards, 118, 197 ; farming at
home and abroad, 114 ; the
first pockets of Hops, 114 ;
barren orchards, fleld voles
and enemies, 138; autumn
tillage, ensilage, 161 ; fodder
for winter, ensilage, 185;
work on the home, 186, 216,
253, 280, 346, 868, 390. 436,
48-2, 602, 635, 668, 584 ; the
dairy, fodder crops, 209 ;
brewers’ grains for cows, 210 ;
a butter destroying weed,
283; farm homesteads, 253;
poor milk, 280 ; Royal Com¬
mission on Agriculture, 280 ;
mixed farming, 301; agri¬
cultural commission, 802 ; a
Wheat straw, 323 ; New
Zealand, a warning to
farmers, 324 ; acorn poison¬
ing, 824; the Board of Agricul¬
ture, Middlesex Agricultural
Society, Lord Tredegar's
Agricultural Shows, 346;
liberty for farmers, 337 ;
Irish agriculture, 368 ; winter¬
ing catde, 890 ; profits, 414;
profitable live stock, 436, 460,
482, 502,232, 667 ; extraordinary
weight of Swedes, 502 ; root
and seed stands at I-lington,
514; Wheat for cows. 524:
thin pasture, 524; profitable
live stock (lessons of the
Cattle Show), 646; Spratts
almanac, 568; live stock
handbooks, 568 ; " Live Stock
Journal " almanac, 568 ; soms
lessons of the year, 583
Feeding trees and plants, and
enriching the soil in the
autumn, 349, 416, 466
Fenn, Mr. Robert, a day with,
233

Ferns, transplanting Tree, 232 ;

houses at Inwood, 266
Fertilisers, and County Coun¬
cils, 147; and feeding stuffs
bill, 242

Field voles, 198

Figs, seasonable work amongst,
183 ; forcing, 411, 499
Finsbury Park, bedding at, 241
Floral nomenclature, 356, 883,
439, 536; spelling at shows,
399 ; curious spelling of
names, 463, 493
Floral hketcu Book, the, 420
Florists’ flowers, noies on, 213 ;

seasonable hints on, 551
Flower b rsket at Halton, 512
Flower garden, 65, 343 ; plants,
propagating, 135 ; Insects,
mites, 393

Flowers, for market, 2 ; at the
Royal wedding, 10 ; hardy
autumn, 282; hardy, note 4
on, 326; autumn and winter,
610 ; perfume of, 653

F ower shows, judging at, 176
Forestry Exhibition, prizes at,
492, 419, 444

Foxglove, campanulate, 44
Francoas, culture of, 4i9
Fraser, Mr. Robert, death of,
491

Fritillaria armena, 107; bre-
vicauiis, 441

Fruit culture, remarks bearing
on, 573

Fruit, forcing, 42, 64, 83, IIS,
182, 207, 252, 276, 319, 342, 334,
383,432, 479, 499. 519, 543, 564 ;
culture at Wfghtwick Mauor,
54 ; prospects in Bads, 122 ;
unripe and decayed, dangers
of, 124 ; painted, 148 ; St,
Petersburg International
Exhibitlou, 147 ; at Lowfleld,
217 ; in Fij i, 221 ; in Australia,
221; improviug the quality
of, 244; storing, 278 ; high
cultivation of, iSl; at Earl's
Court, 297 ; pruning trees,
298, 285; culture, soil and
climatic conditions, 392;
artificially coloured, 400 ;
planting, 410 ; growing, 447 ;
keeping question, 508, 627,
548 ; machinery, 534; canned
fruit in California and
Australia, .534
Fruit garden hardy, 342
Fruiterers’ Company dinner,
354

Fruit trees, evils of crowding,
141 ; management on wails,
150 ; trees, digging amongst,
174; bones and kainit tor,
278 ; exuberant young, 36J;
the treatment of overcropped,
870; insects on, 4i5; pruning
and nailing, 499 ; surface
dressing, 499 ; sulphate of
iron for, 553

Fuchsias from seed, 434
Fuchsia show, a, 198
Fuller, Rev. T. M , death of—
in memorlam, 169
Fungicides, 142, 165

GALANTHUS OCTQBRESSIS (?)
from Albania, 5i8 ; G. corcy-
rensis, 649; G. Kaohelie, 549
Garden produce and August
heat, 163

Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent
Institution, the (an appeal
to gardeners in Ireland), 525
Gardeners, the Worshipful
Company of, annual banquet,
55 ; and gardening, 580
Garden guns, 289
Gardening and Forestry Exhi¬
bition, prizes at, 419, 444 ;
medals at, 421

Garden, the romance of a, 249
Gas lime, a caution, 9; and
maggots, S3
Gateford Hill, 284
Gladioli, new varieties, certifi¬
cated, 131 ; g owing, 552 ; a
note about, o80
Gienharst, Esher, 489
Globe Amaranth (Gomphrena
globosa), 99
Gioriosa superba, 345
Gloxinias, a fine, 75 ; diseases
of, 245

Gooseberry, history of Whin-
ham’s Industry, 102 ; Show
(Ripley), 157
Gourds, large, 420
Grafting, herbaceous, 512
Grape-room, constructing, 45
Grapes scalded, 45 ; Gros Col-
man, 66 ; Lady Downe’s
scalded, 67; heaviest hunch
of, 88 ; colouring late, 91 ;
strains of, 123; seasonable
notes on, 134 ; Berdiausk,
173; keeping late, 18t; out¬
doors. Black Hamburgh, i9l ;
shanking after ripening, 2U8 ;
an experiment with snank-
Ing, 238 , 262, 292 ; cheao

Muscats, 244; rusted and
shrivelled, 254 ; In America,
288 ; causes of shanking in,
315 ; shanking, on an ex-
nenmeut With, 310 ; prices of,
Ml ; culture or, 618 ; two
crops in on» season, 534 ; Lady
Hutt and Apple.. Towers, 554
Greenhouse wiu ter flower.-, 467
Greenwich, temperatures at,
163

Grimston Park, Tadcaster, 56
Grounds and orchards.arrange-
mentof, 112

Guiliot, Jean Baotiste, death
of, 272

Gustavia pterocarpa, 400

HABENARIA9, CISNABARINA,
96 ; H. caruea, 288
Hail and beat, 33
Halton, 199; flower basket at,
512

Hammerwood, Sussex, 264
Hampton Court Paiace, bed¬
ding at, 260

Hardy flowers, notes on. 117,
188, 238, 548 ; In masses, 127
Hardy fruit garden, 42, 109, 206,
252, 457, 499, 543, 581

Hardy perennials for cutting,
118

Heating, steam versui hot
water, 222 ; the principles of,
328, 360

Hedges for shady places, 5i;
clipping, 92

Heiiopsis scabra major, 297, 371
Heliotropes propagating, 136
Herbaceous plants, 303
Heuchera sanguinea, 7
Hiopeastrnm procerum, 102
Hodsock Priory, 284
Holland, death of Mr., 32
Holland, reclaimed land In, 267
Holly tree, a large, 85l
Horticultural Club, 356
Horticultural literature, a gold
medal and £400 prize, 354
Horticultural (Royal) Society,
Chiswick Show and Com¬
mittee meetings, 80 ; four-
days Shows, 34 ; Show at
the Agricultural Hall, 54, 191 ;
Flowers at Chiswick, 75;
Committee meetings, 78. 130,
247, 298, 337, 377, 441, 495, 538,
cartlflcates and awards of
merit, 78, 195, 243, 333, 378, 442,
495, 639 ; lecture on alpine
houses, 78 ; Scientific Com¬
mittee, 99, 170,351,399,469, 517 ;
lecture on Onions, 378; and
the Imperial Institute, 492;
and South Kensington, 509 ;
meetings for 1894 ; 553
Horticultural (Royal) Society
of Ireland, 534

Horticultural Society, a general
266

Horticulture in South Africa,
170

Hotbeds, present use of, 232
House for fruit and Chrysan¬
themums, 545
Hull notes, 12

Hybrid Briar, autumnal
analysis, 1886-1893, 396
Hybridisation and cross-fertili¬
sation, 356
Hyde Park, 215

Index kewensis, 219, 553 ;

translation of Latin, 574
Insects, eradication of, 4 ; flower
garden, 24, 93, 189, 269 ; pests
on fruit trees, 415, 554
Inwo )d House Gardens, Bland-
ford, 311

Ireland, notes from, 94; an ap¬
peal to gardeners in, 525
Irises, Pacific Coast, 55 4
Isle of Wight, holiday in, 168
Ivy on trees, 66

JAM SHARPERS, 148
.Japanese gardening. 55
Japanese plants at Kew,77
Japanese trees at the World’s
Fair, 126

Jasmine harvest, the, 314
Judges) udged— verdict : guilty,
503, 5l9

Judges and judging — a new
catechism, 558 ; at Edin¬
burgh, 579

Judgments, curious, 193

» Kew BULLETIN,” the, 76 ;

appeadix 1894, 533
Kineton flower show, 149
King-wood Flower Show, 174
Kitchen garden, 87, 183, 277, 329,
387. 480, 433, 520, 565
Knighton Horticultural So-

cletv, 172

Knowsley Hall, 145
Kola, 32

LADYBIRDS AND THEIR
LARVA!, 579

Laelias, majalis and purpu-
rata, 3 ; tenebrosa and No¬
velty, 131 ; tenebrosa, Wal¬
ton Grange var., 150; mono-
phylla, 189; elegans 'Turneri,
Ingram’s var, 297 ; grandis
tenebrosa, 351 ; anceos Ames-
laua, 505 : Ltelia Flnckeniana,
549 ; L. anceps resting, 566
Laello-Cattleya, Pisandra, 394,
407 ; Statteriana, 462
Langley Nurseries, Messrs.

Veitch * Sons, 359
Latham, death of Mrs., 283
Lavender, uses of, 126
Laxtou, death of Mr., 123 ;

record of wsrk, 151
Leaves, the movements of, 522
Leek cult ire. successful, 371
Leilneria fioridana, 221
Lessons, from the past, 235 ; of
the dry season, 351
L-ttuce, Daniel’s Continuity,
124; root insects, 136; sum¬
mer, 191

Ligustrum ibota, 376
Liiiacese from Tropical Africa,
new, 77

Lilies, eastern, 93 : Belladonna,
at Grimston Park, 355

Lilies of the Valley, planting,
254

Lily of the Valiev, foreing, 413 ;

early force 1,568
Littonia modesta, 249
Liliuma — Alexandrae, Lowi,
Ukeyuri (Alexandrae), 30,56;
Lowi, 79 ; L. japonicum var.
Alexandrae, 79,265; and bac¬
teria, 160 ; lanciiolium and
varieties, 202 ; L. Henryi, 191 ;
at Chelsea, 197; notes on, 292
Limewashing vinery wall, 566
Liquorice, 267

Liverpool Horticultural Asso¬
ciation, 533

Llewelyn, Mr. W. D., fatal
accident to, 196
Lloyd, death of Miss, 288
Loam for Peach and Vine bor¬
ders, 322

London City gardens, past and
present, 626, 650 ; acreage of,
575

London Parks, changes in, 511
London trees, 294, 318
Low, Mr. Hugh, death of, 265
Lubinia atropurpurea, 672
Luisia Amesiaua, 96
Lycaste Imschootiana,549
Lyclum europaeum, 366
Lyons, Exhibition at, 366

MACHIN.Mr. H. V., 58
Madame Patti’s lov e of flowers,
318

Maize maturing in Wales, 467
Manning, retirement of Mr.,
219 ; ttistimonlal to, 288
Manures, artificial, as a sub¬
stitute for natural, 32 1;
chemical, 366
Maples, Japanese, 533
Marchant, death of Mr , 219
Marguerite cuttings, rooting,
434

Marigolds, 400

'■ Martin ” flower rack, the 318
Masdevallia Gelengiana, 119
Mealy bug, extirpating from
vineries, 137
Meconop-is Wallichl, 67
Meehan, presentation to Mr.,l25
Medlar, grafting, 413
Melon leaves, bacterial disease
in, 112

Melons — Hero of Isleworth,
Royal Pr nee, and County
Councillor, 131 ; bad at shows,
140; Blenheim Orange, 171;
a novelty, 2 8, 266
Melville Ca>tie, S16
Me .eorological i R jyal) Societ •,
466 ; November storm, 576
Mexican plants at Kew, 77
Michaelmas Daisies at Chis¬
wick, 348,377
Microbes on roots, 239
Microscope for examining bac¬
teria, 545

Mignonette, varieties and cu -
ture, 120

MlUonia Joioeyana, 131
Mina lobata, 366
Missouri Botanical Garden, 533
Montbrella crocosm»flora
plena, 143, 172 ; Ingestre
Hybrid, 148
Morina longifolia, 183
Mori,la hypogaaa, 184
Mulberries, spirits from. 257
Mushrooms, preparing for, 19 ;
and Tomatoes, 125 ; at In¬
wood House, Blandford, 311 ;
property in, 420

NARCISSI, EXHIBITION OF, N
Birmingham, 75
Narcissus Show, a,lor Birming¬
ham, 554

National Co-operative Festival,
163

Nature’s help to gardeners,
(Syrphus fly), 383, 335 ; the
laced-winged fly, 517 ; lady¬
birds, 579

Nectarines, Early Rivers, 51 :
shrivelling, 2u8

Nelumbium speclosnm nuc!-
ferum, 148

Nemesla sirumosa SuttonI, 193
Nepenthes mixta, 297, 315 ; at
Chelsea, 340

Nerlne elcgans alba, 349
NeWbattle Abbey, 316
Newnham Faddox, 263
New Zealand, Karmahi tree,
265 ; fruit culture In, 267 ;
flora, 443

Nlcotiana colossea variegati,
30

Nitrogen, value of for plant.-,
132

Not-s by the way, 96,167, 19),
264, 489

Nothing pays— a wail, 49 3
Notospartinm Carmichaeli, 481
Nymphma Trickeri, 511

OAKLEIGH, NOTES ABOUT, 9
Oaks, species of, 245 ; galls, 316
Oats, fine, SI

Odontogios^ums, 215; planted
cut, 279 ; crispum, 628

Deeember 28, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

Oncldiamg, inteum, 95 ; Incur-
vum.asz

Onion maggot, 33, 579
Onions — autumn sown, 101 :
Golden Kocca, 124 ; and
Potatoes at Chiswick, 174 ; at
Beading, 302 ; cerliflcated,
337 ; lecture on, 378 ; and the
maggot, 491; mineral consti¬
tuents of, 522 ; about, 579
Oranges, Jaffa, 333
Orchard planting near Denver,
261

Orchids — ventilating, 2 ; Mr.
Sander in America, 27 ; Den-
droblum Hookerianum, 49 ;
Clrrhopetalum Brieniannm,
49 ; Ccelogync borneensls, 49 ;
Stanhopea Lowi, 49; Cypri-
edlum X Winnianum, 71 ;
halsenepsis tetraspls, 71 ;
Pleiones, 71 ; Sobraiia leu-
coxantha, 95 ; new Orchids,
95 ; Polystachya Imbricata,
95 ; Oncidium luteum, 95 ;
Habenaria cinnabarina, 96 ;
Lnisia Ameslana, 96; in the
open air, 90 ; Stanhopea
Ameslana, Bulbophyllnm
gpathaceum, Pleurothallls
puberula, Vanda teres, V.
cserulea, 175; at Chelsea, 189;
Lailla monouhyll , 189 ; at
Morpeth, Northumberland,
189 : Cattleya aurea, 237 ;
C. Gaskelliana, 237 ; Oncidium
incurvum, 237 ; Orchids at
Highbury, 237 ; Disa lacera,
237 ; from seed, 279 ; Cypri-
pedlum oeao-superbiens, 269;
Catasetum Bungerothi, 269 ;
the blue Uisas, 269 ; Cypri-
pedinm Charlesworthl, 307 ;
repotting and surfacing cool
house, 307; Cattleya blesensis,
Stenoglottis longlfolia, Cypri-

Eedium Euryandrum, 327 ;

aelia grandis tenebrosa,
351 ; Cattleya bicolor, 351 ;
Orchids at Cliffe House,
Hessle, 35l ; a warning to
Orchid hunters, 372;Onciaium
Sanderianum, 372 ; Cyprl-
pedium H. Ballantlne, 372;
Orchids at 'Woolton Wood,
372; notes on, 394 ; Cattleya
Lord Bothschild, 417 ; Cypri-
pedium Statterianum, 417 ;
Odontoglossums, 417; Den-
drobium nobile, 439 ; at
Forest Hill, 439 ; Disa Veitchi
X tripetaloides, 439 ; The
Orchid Growers’ Manual,”
462 ; Ltclio-Cattleya Statter-
iana, 402; for flowering at
Christmas, 462, 487; Lieiia
anceps Ameslana, 505; Cat¬
tleya citrina, 505 ; Orchidi
for flowering at Christmas,
505 ; Clrrhopetalum orna-
tissimnm, 528 ; Odontoglos-
sum crispum, 528 ; Cattleya
citrina, 529; Lycaste Imschoot-
iana, 549; Latlia Finckeniana,
549 ; Orchid lessons for young
gardeners (roots and their
requirements), 550, 573
Orton Hall, 284
Osiers, culture of, 272, 642, 563
Ostrowskia magolflca, 355,
535

Other lands— New South Wales,
129

Out of town, 307, 329
Oxylobium callistachys, 15

PALM OIL TRADE, AFRICAN,
101

Palms, Sago, 184
Pansy, early history of, 141
Parks and open spaces, 124
Parona paniculata, 575
Parsley for winter and spring,
72 ; notes about, 570
Paulownla, a large, 534
Pavla macrostachya, 124
Peaches — early outdoors, 8 ;
origin of, 102; growing for
market, 116,393; boxes, glands
on, 208; yellows and potash,
245; origin of, 334; leaf
blister, 373, 421

Peaches and Nectarines out¬
doors and under glass, 157 ;
Golden Rathripe, 148; colour
In, 164; forcing, 479
Pears, stocks for, 221; early,
286 ; ,'from seed, 322 ; self-fer¬
tilising, 506 ; keeping, 508 ;
Doyennd dn Cornice, irom a
north wall, 533 ; the pollina¬
tion of, 536; mineial consti¬
tuents of, 545 ; notei on, 578
Pears r. Peaches, 259, 287, 30 8,
872

Pear tree, gall mite causing
canker, 228 ; blister moth, 278
Peas, in dry summers, 249 ; at
Wem, 261 ; Veitch’s Autocrat,
313; particulars about, 419;
versus Peaches, 421, 495 ;

diseased, 459 ; The original
Hessle, 469, 495 ; in 1893, 495 ;
Bergamotte Hertrlch, 601
Pelargoniums at Windsor, 418
Pentstemon antlrrhicoides, 443
Pershore Flower Show, 173
Perry refuse as manure, 254
Petra:a volubllls, 66
Phacelia campanulata, 124

Phal.-cnopslp, Schillerian.a, S ;

tetraspls, 71
Phygellus capensis, 278
Pico tees, new, 391
Pine Apples, preserving at
Singapore, 535

Pinks, 248; at Uandsworth, 29 ;

on the Riviera. 222
Pinus insignis.shoots and buds
destroyed, 322
Pithers, Mr., death of, 76
Plant, a new Solanaceous, 355
Plant Industries in the
Caucasus, 377

P ant houses, 65, 110, 253, 320;

work in. 864, 521
PLANTS, FRDlTS, AND VEGE¬
TABLES CERTIPIC vTED BY
THE KOVAL HORTICOL-
TUHAL SOCIETY—
Acalypha Macafeeana, 496 ;
ACiides Ballantineanum au-
reum, 195 ; Agave Leopold II.,
195 ; A. unlvittatamarginata,
195 : Aglaonema pumilum
(rotundum), 297 ; Aglao-
morpha ( Poly pod ium)Meyen-
i ma, 49 ; ; Aloeasla Chant-
rierl, 297 ; Alstroemeria au-
rant'aca, 30; Anthurium
Wainbeckiatium, 338 ; A.

Lindenl flora carmine,378. -

Begonia Mrs. Bourne, 78 ; B.
semoerflorens Vernon, 131 ;

B. Oloire de Lorraine, 378;

Bomarea patacoensis, 338. -

Cabbage, Christmas Drum¬
head, 538 ; Caladium Ba; onne
de Maimoie, 30 ; C. Le Nain
Rouge, 78 ; C. President de la
Devansaye, 131 ; Calanthe
Mylei-i, 496; C. Victoria
Regina, 493 ; Campanula Ma
riesi, 78 ; Cannas, Duchess of
York, Capitaine de Suzzoni,
Gloire d’Empel, Lohengrin,
Kon'gin Charlotte, Michelet,
131 ; C. Quasimodo, 248 ;
Carnation Esmeralda, 78; Mrs.
Leopold de Rothschild, 195 ;

C. Mary Godfrey, Reginald
Godfrey, Mdlle. The bse
Franco, 338 ; Ca asetum Dar-
winiauum, 496 ; Cattleya
Hardyana Tate’s variety, 78 ;
C. blesensis, 297 ; C. chloris,
838 ; C. Eldo'ado Lindeni,
338; C. Pheidinie, 338; C.
Warsequana fascinator, 338;
C. lablata, 378 ; C. labiata var.
Sanderiana, 378 ; C. Hardy¬
ana Selwood var. 378 ; C. Lord
Rothschild, 378 ; C. Waroc-
queana Imschootiana, 378 ;
Chrysanthemum Mrs. P.
Blair, 338; C. Ryecroit Glory,
W. H Fowler, Miss M. Simp¬
kins, Madame M. Ricaud, the
Tribune, 378 ; C. Chas. Davis,
C. J. Salter, Duke of York,
Golden Weddine, Mdlle. The-
ihse Rey, Rose Wynne, Robert
Petfleld.Lord Rosebery, John
Bunyan,442: C. Le Prince de
Bois, Little Pet, Elise Walker,
H. M. Polletr, Mrs. J. Mit¬
chell, Mrs. John Gardiner,
Elmer d’Smith, Golden Gate,
Judge Hoit, 496 ; C. Good
Gracious, Mrs. MarianBourne,
539 ; ■ Clrrhopetalum orna-
tissimum, 378; Cierodendron
trichotomum, 195 ; Cornus
brachypoda varitgata, 195;
Costus igneus, 539 ; Croton
Madame Ernest Bergman,
131 ; C. Russelii, 442 ; Cupres-

sus macrocarpa lutea, 78. -

Cypripedium Massaianum,
30; C. Stone! Cannarte,
80; C. Edwardi, 78, 195; C.
ceno-snperbiens. 131, 248; C.
Theyerianum,131; C. Bander-
superbiens, 195 ; C. x Aphro¬
dite, 248 ; C. Clotilde Moens,
248; C. Leonas, 248 ; C.
Charlesworthl, 297 ; C. Spi-
cerlo-Lowianum, 338; C. Cio-
nius, 378 ; C. Statterianum,
378 ; C. Inslgne albens, 378 ;
C. insigne Clarkei, 878; C.
Ashworthaj, 442; C. Leeanum
var. James Hamilton, 442 ;
C. South gateense superbum,
442; C. Swinburne! Stand
Hall var., 442 ; C. Mary Lee,
496 ; C. Fairlano-Lawrencia-
num, 496; C. Minos, 496 ; C.
insigne var. illnstre, 496;
C. vennstum Measurianum,
539; C. Warnhamensls, 639;
C. fascinatum, 539 ; C. Sal-
lieri aureum, 639 ; C. OSnone,
539. — Dahlias, Ernest Cheat,
Mrs. Mortimer, Gloriosa,
Lady Penzance, Rowena,
195; D. Cannell’s Gem,
Demon, Golden Locks, M.C.C.,
Phyllis, 248 ; D. Octa-
Via, Mrs. Morgan, captain
Boyton, Miranda Beauty of
Watford, Edith Turner, Flo¬
rence Woodland, Mrs. Peart,
Cherub, Grand Duke Aiexis,
Norma, Duchess of York,
Ceres, Sovereign, 297 ; D.
Emily Hopper, Ettle Swan,
Purple Prince, Miss Arnold,
Old Gold, 338 ; D. CannelTs
Brilliant, Sir F. Mouteflore,
Mrs. Parrot, 378 ; Datura
cornucopia, 297; Dendrobium
Phalsenopsis Appleton’s var.
878 ; Disa Premier, 838 ; Dra-

PLANT8 CERTIFICATED— Con¬
firmed.

caina Indivisa aurea varie-
gata, 30; D. Alexander

Laing,131 ; D. Jamesl.442 -

Exacum macranthum, 195 ;
Gladioli John Warren, Grover
Cleveland , Alfred Henderson,
Duke of York, 13l; G. Ber¬
nice, Cassandra, Gertrude,
Orlande, 196 ; Grape Cape
Muscat, 246 ; Grevillea

Banksi, 131. - Habenaria

carnea, 196 ; Haemanthus
Lindeni, 838; Hedera helix
tesselata, 131 ; Helianthus
rigdus Miss Mellish, 196;
Heliopsis scabra major, 297 ;

Hollyhock Amaranth, 131. -

L.Tlia crispa superba, 78 ;
L. Novelty, 131 ; L. tenebrosa,
Walton Grange variety, 131 ;
L. elegans I'urneri, Ingram’s
var., 297 ; L. elegans crispa,
338 : L. anceps Amesiana,
496 : L. Finckeniana, 539 ;
Lmllo-Cattleya epicasta, 248;
L. C. Nysa, 248 ; L. C. Pis-
andra, 878 ; L. Statteriana,
442 ; L. C. Nysa, 539 ; Liatris
pycnostaohya, 131 ; Lilium
japonlcum var. Alexandric,
30 ; L. Lowi, 30 ; L. Ukeyuri

(L. Alexandra;), 30. - Melon,

Lee’s Perfection, 78 ; M. Hero
of Isleworth, Royal Prince,
County Councillor, 131 ; M.l-
tonia vexillaria, Daisy Hay-

wood,78: M Joiceyana,131. -

Nepenthes Amesiana. 639 ;
Nerine elegans alba, 338 ;
Nlcoilana colossea variegata,

80. - Odontoglossum, Uro-

Skinneri alba, 338; O. cris¬
pum var. Tnompfona;, 539 ;
Onions, Southport Yellow
Globe, Southport Red Globe,
DeverilTs Cocoanut, Globe
Madeira, Italian Tripoli,
Prlzetaker, 337 ; Orange,

seedling (Edith). 533. -

Paphinla grandis var. gigas,
378 ; Peach, Dnchess of York,
246 ; Pear Beurre Fouqueray,
337 ; Pentstemon Clevelandi,
193; Phlox Etna,l31; P.Molifere,
248 : Pink Ernest Ladhams,
193 ; Platycerlum stemmaria
(cethlopica), 539 ; Pleione
maculata alba, 442 ; Plum
Golden Transparent, 247;
Potatoes, Major T. Neve,
Success, Crawley Prizetaker,
Boston Q and Q , Conference,
332; Jeanie Deans, Confer¬
ence, Early Regent, Nelly
Langley, Radcliffe Kidney,
337 ; Primula Forbesl, 442 ;
Ptychoraphis augusta, 338.

- Quercus americana splen-

dens, 338 - Rose, Duke of

York, 196 ; R. Ade ine Viviand

Morel, 243. - Solanum

Wendlandi, 338 ; Spiraea
Anthony Waterer, 78 ; Stan¬
hopea Lowi, 442 : Sweet Peas,
Eliza Eckfoid, Tne Belle, 78.

- Tecoma Smith! . 338 ;

Tritoma Osiris, 131. -

Veronica hybrida. Purple
Queen, 297. — Weigela Eva

Rathke, 196. - Zygopetalum

rostratum, 539.

Platycodon.o, 102 ; or Cam¬
panula, 145 ; P. grandiflora
Mariesi, P. Mariesi alba,
170

Pleiones, 71

Plumbago Larpentae, 314
Plums decaying, 113 ; culture
under glass, 211 ; mineral
constituents of, 545
Pocket-book notes, 94
Poinsettia pulchenlma 555
Pol.vstachya imbricata, 95
Pomona Farm Nurseries, Wlth-
ington, Hereford. 440
Poppie.", Iceland, 3,9
Potatoes. Snowdrop, 83 ; crop
in Jersey, 197 ; culture of 240 ;
prices for, 246 ; problem, a,
266, 334; shrivelled, 288;

mulching, experiments in
America, 333 ; certificated at
Chiswick, 332 ; in Lincoln¬
shire, 375 ; diseased and
soabbed,366; giow ngexperi-
ments, 420 ; Per.ieverance
with (Messrs. Sutton’s ex¬
periments), 461; seed, 665;
ware, 555

Pratt, Miss, death of, 102
Preparing for the winter, 48
Primula Forbesi, 489
Prize - giving, proportional,
156, 173, 202

Prizes at the Gardening and
Forestry Exhibition, 419, 444,
492

Pruning fruit trees, plain
words on, 270

Pyrus japonlca fruiting, 443

QUEEN AND GARDENER, 38
Queen’s cottage, Kew, 468

Radishes, winter, 40i
Railway gardening, 654
Rain, after the, 47

Rainfall, heavy, 153
Ramsgate Public Park, 267
Ranunculus Lyalli, 467
Raspberries, autumn, 376 ; in
October, 421 ; Jottings, 571
Raspberry moth (Lampronia
rubiella) 536
Beauing, flowers at, 74
Regent’s Park, bedding at, 241
Retrospect, a, 509
Room plants, 675
Boot fung,U9, 246
Rose analysis, 18.66-1893,803
Roselands, Southampton, 818
Rose (National) Society's
Provincial Show at Work¬
sop, 51 ; N.R.S. catalogue, 72;
N.K.S. Worksop Show, criti¬
cisms on, 72 ; National Ro-e
Society, 201, 465 ; notes about
Ro;es, 201; Mr. Mrwley’s
analysis, 331, 884, 418, 440, 465 ;
new cata ogue fund, 539;
annual meeting, 540 ; annual
dinner. 541

Roses Orange fungus, N.R.S.
Tea Exh. billon, 5 ; Margaret
Dickson, writers on. Briers or
Briars, orange fungus, 28 ;
a fea-t of, 29 ; and the
'• Victoria ” Fund, 51 ; and
rosarians 51, 73, 98; the

fragrance of 72 97 ; old Rows
at Kirkconnell, N.B., 73;
Mr, Orahame’s qnestl mi to
rosarians, 97; judging, 91;
notes on the Meiropolitin
Exhibition of the N.R8.,
98; Ernest Metz, Souv-'nir
de la Malmaison, Mr. Gra-
hame’s circular. Teas from
cuttings, N.R.S. Provitcial
Show, 121 ; fungus and
remedies, 137; E n st Metz,
Roses, 146 ; Mr. Laxton and
his work among Roses,
National Ro-e Society. In
memi riam— death oi the Rsv.
J. M. Fu ler, the fragrance in,
169 ; Mr. Grahame’s circular,
Ernest Metz, Tea scented,
growing in Saxony. 2i8 ; The
Bride, 240 ; Ro.-a Polyan ha
(Fairy Roses), 243 ; a new
hybrid Rose, 240 ; Jean
Baptiste Gui lot, 272; the
late M. Gulllot, a large
Marechal Nie', 287; hot
season Roses, 358, 384 ; Rose
analysis. 358 ; hybrid Briar
Boies, 384 ; Lo:d Penzance’s
Hybrid Briars, 4l8 ; sow ng
heps, 435 ; the Bose in 1893,
435, 494 ; Aberdeen Rose-, 509 ;
the N R.S. and the future of
exhibiting, 509; manuring
and planting, 610 ; protecting
Tea Roses, 539 ; Rose pests
and their eradication, 539 ;
Messrs. Harkness & Sons,
540 ; manuring and trans¬
planting, 540, 559, 577; Burn-
fide s Bijou on Tea Rose.“,558 ;
Comte Alphon e de Serenye
and Comiesse de Serenye,
558 ; the winter proteciion of
Roses, 558 ; winners with
seventy-two Roses, 659; Hy¬
brid Teas, 659, 577 ; a recent
slander, 56); Mts. W. C.
Whitney, 576; c assiflcatlon
of, 576 ; blue Roses, 676
Roihams ed, honour.ii, 7; wed¬
ding flowers, 10 ; experiments.
Jubilee of the, 77 ; experi¬
ments. the, 91 ; report of the
Jubilee, 103

Roval Gardeners’ Orphan Fund,
490

Ruellia macrantha, 419
Russia, fruit culture in, 102

SABBATIA CAMPESTRI3, 159
Scale on Kentia leaf, 434
Salvia Grahami, 419
Sand-binding grass, 245
Sawbridgeworih, a call at,
336

Saxiiraga biternata, 627
Scabhius, Sweet, 356
School gardens, 248 ; continua¬
tion. 201

Scotland, woods and trees lu,
314

Scottish gardens, a glance at,
316

Sennowe Hall, 128
Shading, fruit houses, 24 ;
plants, 612

Shallots, exhibiting, 208
Shanking in Gr pps,au experi¬
ment with, 238. 262
Shortcomings, 563
Shows, four days’ condemned, 9
Shows — Lee, hiackheath, and
Lewisham, 17; Croydon, 17 ;
Diss, 37; Brockhaui, 37;
Hereford, 38 ; Ipswich, 39 ;
Norwich, 39 ; Bath, 39 ;
Farnlngham, 39; Wolver¬
hampton, 41 : Earl’s ( #011,
41; Wolverhampton, 6s;
Boston, 60; Woodundge, 60;
Chertsey, Walton, and Wey-
bridge, 61 ; People’s Pa ace,
62; Wood Green, 63; Ascot
and District, 63; Cainailon
and Pkotee Union, 63 ;
Trentham, 82; Prescot, 83;
Huyton and Roby, 8‘ ; Bed¬
ford, 83 ; Newcastle, 84 ;

■vii.

Snows — Continued.

Earl’s Court, 85 ; West of
England Carnation and Pico-
tee, 85 ; Midland Counties
Carnation and Plcotee, 86;
Liverpool, 107 ; Northern
Carnation, 108 ; Southamp¬
ton, 132 ; Earl’s Court, 183 ;
Leicester, 156; Taunton, 157 ;
Taunton Deane, 179; Cardiff,
180; Wilts, 181; Earl’s Court,
181,251; Dumfries, 171 ; Bland-
ford, 172 ; Knighton, 172 ;
Pershore, 173 ; Kingswood,
174 ; Shrewsbury, 203, 218 ;
Trowbridge,205; Bisingitoke,
206 ; Moseley, Bath, 227;
Sandy, 228 ; Brighton, 229;
Royal Aquarium, 230 ; Derby,
250 ; Birkenhead and Wlrrall,
251; Edinburgh, 273 ; Banbury
Onion and Vegetable. 276 ;
Manchester, 276 ; Gloucester
and Cheltenham, 319
Shrewsbury, floral designs, 75
Shropshire Horticultural So¬
ciety, 575

Shrubs, pruning, 92 ; thoughts
on. 607

Shuttieworth <fe Co., Ltd.,
Me.-srs. E. D.. 581
Sliene penuula, 80
Slrex gigas, 279,288,332
Snowdrops, ea- ly, 548, 554
Snow Plough, the ” KnowBley,”
542

Snowstorms, 290
Sobraiia leucoxantha, 95
soils, improving light, 160 ;
analysis of, 347, 369 ; enrich¬
ing in the autumn. 349, 416,
571 ; and climate, influences
0 ) 392; management of, 520
sparrows, ravages of, 145, 814 ;
suburban, 244, 265 ; trapping,
289

Spathoglottis Fortunei, 283
Sprayer), Verinorel’s, 232
Spraying versus Insect pests
and fungoid disea'^es, 71, 92
Stapellas, at Kew, 101; gigan-
tea. 533

Starch formation, 126
ttephanotis floribunda fruit¬
ing, 467

Sternbergia lutea, 376
Stokesia cyanea. 572
Strawberries — farming, 6,84;
in Hampshire, 25 ; conti¬
nental, 121 ; 'n pots, 299; in
October, ripe, 355, 399 ; mine¬
ral con-tiiueuts of, 545
Stuartia pentagyna, 100
sulhampstead, a day at, 236
Sulphate of copper solution for
destroying scale, 522
Sulphate of iron for fruit
trees, 553

SunnlLgdale Park, 36
Swainsonia gahgitolla alba,
32

Sweet Peas, 150

Sweet Sultan unsatisfactory,
89

Syrphus fly, 383

TAKING OUR ENEMIES ON
THE QUIET, 415
Tar and iruit trees, 33
Tea, Farmo.san, 314 ; cultivation
In C ■ylon,333
Tecoma Smiihi, 356
Tennis lawn, weed on, 480
Xesiimouials, original, 344
Thistles, destr yiug. 186
Thames Embankment,, a new,
400

Thomson, Mr. AV., death of, 100
Thorpe, Mr. G., death of, 575
Three days’ holiday in the Isle
of Wight, 168

Thrips, outdoors and under
glass, 159

Timber measurements, 292
Tomatoe.s— Notes on, 12, 19;
unhealthy structures for, 21 :
difficulties, 333 ; bacterial
dlsea-e in, 79, 99 ; Sutton’s
Al, 124: di-e-is d and remedy,
160 ; Lady Bird, 171 ; irregular
in size, 184 ; a museum of,
Messrs. Sutton ife Sons, 267 ;
stray, 312 ; fine, 314 ; exhibit¬
ing, 321 ; are Tomato diseases
controllable? (baorenum),
325,372; Stray, 333; diseases,
bact rial and eel worm
troubles 350 ; stray, 356; in
1893, 392 ; chem cal mannre
ior.Sol; cuitcire,5i8 ; ripening
green (American method),
575

Tree.“, the va’ue of, 166; the
oldest in the yvorld, 314 ;
set ing up wind-blown, 652 ;
the rings of, 555
Tridax bi»olor rosea, 295
Troewolum Mrs. Clibran, 8
Truffles, 209, 480

Tuberoses, to flower in August,
582

Tynnlnghame,3l7

UNITED HORTICULTURAL
BENEFIT AND PROVIDENT
SOCIETY, 363 ; annual din¬
ner. 341

Uraria crlnita, 876

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December S8, 1893.

Till.

VEGETABLE GROWER AND
HIS WORK, A, 489
Vegetables, exhibiting in
baskets, 116 ; cuitnre in ad¬
verse seasons, 240, 263 ; grow¬
ing and showing, 397; Targe,

400

Vegetarianism, Lady Taget’s
piea for, 128
Verbaxnm Chaixi, 82
Veronica hybrida Purple Queen,

297

Vine border, making a, 888
Vines— Current notes on, 18 ;
leaves scorched, 21, 26 ; Mus¬
cat of Alexandria, turning
yellow, 66; Goliaths, 139;
planter of the Hampton
Court, 147 ; the Breadalbane,

178 ; problem, a 268, 290 ; sea¬
sonable notes on, 410; cul¬
ture, a retrospect, 416 ; mildew '

Vines— Continued,
on, 644; liquid manure in
winter for, 645 ; for a house
without Are heat, 645
Vineyards, The Rhine, 376
Violas, good white, 82 ; Border
Maid, 10; notes on, 120; for
massing, 132; new, 220, 438,
496. 657 ; comments on, 658 ;
new miniature, 580
Violets in the winter, 417

WAKEFIELD PAXTON SOCIETZ
172

Walls, garden, price of, 388
Walsh, Mr. Duncan, death of,
491

Waltham Cross revTsUed,
384

Wasps— nests and cyanide of
potassium, 10 ; method of
destroying, 27; and their
destruction, 61; the plaEUe
of 126, 267 ; destroying, 152 ;
destroying with turpentine,
queens, wasps and benzoline,
wasps and Tomatoes, wasps
and muslin, wasps and Mac
Dongall’s smoke ferrets. 176,
201; queen, 266; nests de¬
stroyed, 266

Water, cold versus hard, 214 ;
foft versus hard, 239, 271, 286,
317, 339; cost of boring for,
302 ; hard cold, for plants,
361, S74

We8ther,in Scotland, 55, 531; in
June. 55; and the crops, 198;
mild Oct iber, 355 ; rough, in
the North, 467 ; in the Isle
of Wight, 468

Water Lily, a new, 511
Weeds, destroying, 265
Welton House gardens, 12
Wembley Park. 310
Wem Peas, the, 281
West Ella Conifers, 13
Wicklow, wanderings in, 4SG
Wild flower competitions, 173,
222

Wine, Grape and Rhubarb, 233
WiQier flowering plants, 283
Winter greens, earthing up,
333

Winter moth, 421
Winter, preparing for the, 48 ;
in a Scottish mans* garden,
526

Winter’s Bark, 159
Wistaria, propagating the, 55
Wood, a new, 312; ashes and
blood, mixing, 622; exposing
to rain, 522

Woodhatch Gardens, 166
WooltoH Qa deners’ Mutual
Improvement Society, The,
543

Worms In flower pots, 20

YORK florists, ANCIENT
SOCIETY OP, annual dinner,
554

York Gala and city charities,
143 ; flnances 401

ZBPHYBANTHHS TREAT I.E, 89
Ai) at Pelargoniums, chemical
mauures for, 481

WOODCUTS.

PAGE

Achimenes, a Basket of, at Chatsworth .. 81

Agave Leopold II . .. .. 335

Aglaonema pumilum (rotundum) . 379

Apple Benoni . 232

„ Gascoigne’s Seedling . 583

Banksia integrifolia . 435

Barleria Gibsoni . 155

Campanula grandiflora Mariesi . 103

„ nitida alba . 239

„ persicifolia alba Backhousiana .. .. 3

Canker in Pear Trees, caused by Mites .. 223

Carnations attacked by Eelworms . 34

„ „ Helminthosporium and Uromyces 35

„ Souvenir de la Malmaison at Halton .. 199

Cattleya Lord Rothschild . 425

Chrysanthemum Bud Mite (Phytoptus Ohrysanthemi

—Abbey} . 231

„ Leaves infested with Eelworms .. 129

Mdlle. 'Th^rfese Key . 449

„ Lord Rosebery . 471

„ The “ Shoesmith ” cup and tube , . 561

„ The Tribune . 403

Clerodendron trichotomum . 247

Codonopsis (Glossocomi) ovata . 273

Croton Russelli .. 493

Cunila Mariana . 459

Currant (Black) shoots diseased . 11

Cyclobothra amoena . 261

Oypripedium Charlesworthi . . . . . . . . 307

„ Clonius . 395

„ aeno-superbiens . 269

„ insigne var. Illustre . 673

„ Sander-superbiens . 315

„ Statterianum . 417

„ volonteanum giganteum .. .. 37

„ Winnianum . 71

I’AGE

Dendroblum Hookerianum (chrysotis) .. .. 49

Dianthus callizonus . .. 127

Eelworms in Carnations . 34

H in Chrysanthemums . 129

Epilobium obcordatum . 179

Flower Basket at Halton, Tring . 513

Foxglove, Campanulate . 44

Fritillaria armena . 107

„ brevicaulis . 441

Habenaria carnea . 283

Halton, Flower Basket at . .. .. 513

„ House of Carnations . 199

Heating, the principles of . , . . . . 329, 360

Heliopsis scabra major . 371

Helminthosporium on Carnations , . . , . . 35

Hemerobius (the Laced-winged Fly) . 517

Hull and East Biding Chrysanthemum Society’s

Cups . .. . 339

Laced-winged Fly (Hemerobius) . 517

Ladybirds and their Larvae . 579

Lselia anceps Amesiana . 505

„ Finckeniana . 557

„ tenebrosa, Waltcn Grange variety .. . 150

Lselio-Cattleya pisandra . O'.. 4Y

„ Statteriana . .. 463

Lillum Henryi . 191

„ japonlcum var. Alexandre (Hkeyuri) .. 57

„ Lowi . 79

Littonia modesta .. 349

Lycaste Imscbootiana . 549

‘ Martin ” Flower Back, The . 318

Masdevellia Qelengiana . 119

PAGE

Montbretia crocosmaeflora plena . 143

Mushrooms at Inwood House . . 311

Nature’s Helps to Gardeners — Ssrphus Fly .. 383

„ „ Laced-winged Fly, The (Hemc-

robius) . 517

„ ,, Ladybirds and their Larv® .. 579

Nepenthes mixta . 315

Nerine elegans alba . 349

Notospartium Carmichaeli . 481

Ostrowskia magnifica . 635

Oxylobium callistachys . 13

Pear Bergamotte Hertrioh . 501

Pear-tree Leaf Gall causing Canker . 323

Phytoptus Ohrysanthemi — {Abbey} . 291

Portraits — Corlett, Mr. H, . 361

„ Davis, Mr. M . 167

„ Laxton. Mr. Thomas . 151

„ Machin, Mr. H. V . 53

Primula Forbesi . . .. .. 439

Rose Mrs. W. C. Whitney . 677

Saxifraga bitemata . 527

Snow Plough, “The Knowsiey" . 542

Sobralia leucoxantha . 95

Stanhopea Amesiana . 175

Syrphus Fly, The, and Grubs . 333

Temma Smith! . 357

Tridax bicolor rosea . 395

Truffle, a Black . 309

Uromyces on Camatkni . 35

July 6, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

SOME time ago, when our “ Home Farm ” contributor had been
referring to rich pastures and full crops as the result of the
soil being well stored with plant food, a correspondent desired to
know where such verdancy could be found. Residing in a high,
dry, and not over-well tilled locality, the incredulity of the querist
was not unnatural. Not in his district alone, but over a vast
tract of country, notably in the southern and parts of the midland
counties, fields, banks, and roadside margins were so parched that
scarcely a tinge of green was visible. Not a “ bite ” could be
found in the grazing pastures, and meads afforded little or nothing
to the mower. Garden crops were languishing, and the anxiety of
gardeners becoming extreme in view of the actual collapse of some
crops, and the prospective exhaustion of others weeks before their
time. J ust when a breakdown of supplies for man and beast was
imminent the rain came and cheered the falling spirits of the
husbandman, and in some, perhaps many, districts gave a distinct
flush to vegetation. The parched earth was moistened, enabling
sowing and planting to be done that had long perforce remained
in abeyance.

But this was not so everywhere. Some localities were visited
by drenching thunder showers during the last week in June, a
few doing damage by their violence ; in other districts the showers
extending more or less fitfully over two or three days, were just
sufficient for the resumption of cultivation and “ saving ” established
crops, but in some tracts of country the rain was so light that only
the leafage of plants and herbage in gardens and fields was
freshened and the surface of the ground temporarily cooled. It
was a respite from exhaustion, nothing moroj and we are now
informed on reliable authority that there are stretches of country
along the south coast, in Sussex, Kent, and parts of Hants and
Surrey, in which, to quote a graphically descriptive phrase,
‘‘roads and pastures are all one colour, a cheerless, whitey
brown.”

We know from a passing glance through the country by rail
and road between the English Channel and the Humber that the
above statement is true as regards the localities to which it refers ;
and we also know that, much as northern farmers and gardeners
have felt, and perhaps still feel, the exhausting effect of the
drought, they ought really to be happy in escaping the immeasur¬
ably greater stress and strain that land workers in the dry uplands
in the midland counties and the parched tropical slopes in the
south have had to endure. But while being convinced of the
general accuracy of the above comparison, we have to record our
conviction of a fact which we believe to be indisputable. Whether
in the north or the south, or anywhere and everywhere, land that
is naturally rich and deep by alluvial deposits, and not exhausted
by greed or misjudgment, also land that has been subjected to
deep culture and generous enrichment by workers with means and
knowledge, “holds out” the best, and supports crops of all kinds
for use or ornament long after the poor and thinner mediums
“ give out,” and vegetation withers and dies. There is not a square
mile in the kingdom where the land is amenable to profitable
cultivation that the accuracy of the above dictum is not demon¬
strated. We find, comparatively speaking, gardens full and fields
bare almost everywhere. What is the reason ? It is a case of land
fertility on the one hand, and land sterility on the other. We

No. 680.— VoL, XXVII., Third Series.

1 •

find striking examples of this over much smaller areas than a mile.
Even in the same field they are evident, and to test the matter
still more closely over an acre of land in almost any field devoted
to small allotments the truth of the proposition stares us in the
face, and cannot be obscured.

Take a glance say at four roods of Barley side by side belonging
to as many cultivators, the previous crop in each case Potatoes.
We find on one piece full healthy clean growth capable of yielding
at the rate of at least five quarters of grain per acre, and probably
six. The next piece is weak, thin, stunted, weedy, and cannot
approach half of such yield. The plot adjoining this is very little,
if any, better ; but the next “ jumps up ” more than afoot higher,
a fleecy mass of waving plume-like heads. All the plots have had
the same amount of sunshine and rain, yet the crops in some
flourish and in others fail. Lot not the owners of the failures
eondemn the land and the sun, but rather take a lesson from their
successful neighbours on the remarkable potency of high cultiva¬
tion during periods of drought. As it is to be feared the average
man who works on the land is a stubborn animal — too stubborn to
believe in and learn the lesson so eloquently taught by the Barley,
he must have another course. He can enter a field of twenty rod
plots of Potatoes, take any eight of these plots side by side, which
cover one acre. One or perhaps two of these plots are supporting
plants with stout stems and broad thick leaves that meet across the
space of 27 inches between the rows, and would be better with
more room. Of the remaining plots half may not be half so good
as the best, and the others stunted and miserable, not capable of
paying the rent of the land. Again we ask what is the cause of the
difference ? and again the answer is enriched soil and good manage¬
ment in the one case, impoverished ground or errors in culture in
the other. If there is any other valid reason we shall be glad
to know what it is. As in small cultures so in large. One field is
full of grain or roots — a cheerful prospect ; the next thin in crop,
weedy, or bare — a depressing spectacle. All have had the same
quantity of rain and the soil is of the same original staple. Deep
clean generous culture and timely cropping always “ tell,” but
never so clearly as in a long period of drought. Shallow, late
slipshod working and exhausted soil tell also, but disastrously.

Our farm contributor is right all through the piece in his
insistence on a more generous and intelligent treatment of the
soil. In no other way can either farming or gardening be rendered
profitable in dry seasons, or any seasons. The striking differences
in crops are as apparent on land in Surrey and Kent as in Hunting¬
donshire, Notts, and Lincolnshire, where inspection has been made.
Starved farm land is dried out ; deep fertile garden ground supports
altogether superior crops. Highly farmed and well fed land is
productive, and the grass remains green for weeks longer than in
thin poor soil, and all other crops differ in the same way. “ No
grass in the midlands” is a familiar line. It is too true over a
great extent of country ; but go to Southwell, where Mr. Merry-
weather grows Roses, and a green district will be seen. The grass
is knee deep in some of the least used nursery paths, or was ten
days ago. Perhaps it is cut now. The roadsides are the same,
and the fields the reverse of brown. Because the land is rich the
grass is rich, if it were poor so would be the herbage.

Go to Gateford and see the splendid crops of all kinds on the
excellent squire’s estate near Worksop — Mr. Machin’s — the Rose
squire of the Midlands. The Roses and the crops are what they
are because both are well managed by owner and tenants. Would
that all were like them — that all had such land and equally, as the
late Lord Tennyson said, “did their duty by it.” Farmers are not
going to ruin there, nor in the best farmed lands of Lincoln ; but
even among the best, indifferent crops occur here and there to mar
the fair face of the country. It is just a question of individual
means, ability, energy, and management. It is the same all round
and everywhere. Starve the laud and it will starve both woiker
and owner ; deepen it where needed, feed it, clean it, stir it to keep

No. 2336.— VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

2

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 6, 1895.

in the moisture, and it will support both to an immeasurably greater
extent than so much of it does now.

It is announced that the Board of Agriculture are instituting
nquiries for ascertaining the best means to adopt with land in dry
seasons. The best crops, and there are good and bad everywhere,
tell clearly enough what is needed. More thorough working, more
manure — plant-food — in the soil, with surface working to conserve
the scant moisture, and no weeds to devour what the crops so
urgently require and must have to render them satisfactory.
Such are some of the clear, plain, practical lessons taught by
the drought of the present year. Let not their significance be
disregarded.

WHAT PAYS BEST?

(^Concluded from page 516, last vol.)

Carnations succeed admirably in the 14 feet wide houses,
either on low roughly extemporised stages or on the borders with
boards, slates, or tiles under the pots. The common “ Malmaisons”
do not fetch very high prices in Covent Garden now-a-days, but the
rage for them has extended to provincial towns, where they sell
readily enough at from 6s. to 12s. per dozen, according to quality and
the time of year. The pink or more richly coloured forms not
being so extensively grown, still sell well in London, or somewhat
better than they do in most provincial towns, most that I have sent
to Covent Garden averaging 12s. per dozen. Provincial people
also like good scarlet Carnations of the Winter Cheer type ; the
saperior whites, notably Mrs. Moore, likewise finding ready sales at
from Is. 6d. to 3s. per dozen blooms. For selling in pots, the new
race known as Marguerites, and which flower the same year as raised
from seed, are among the best that can be grown, plants in 6-inch
pots with six or more blooms expanded on them selling freely late
in the autumn at Is. each. This season I have raised about
2000 of these Marguerite Carnations, all being planted out where
they are to remain till September — early or late in the month,
according to circumstances. Very few of them will ever see the
inside of pots, as the bulk will be prepared for lifting by being cut
round in August and later on transplanted to the border of a house
in succession to Tomatoes. All being well we shall have some grand
blooms from these, selling them in mixed colours and in bunches
thirteen in each, at prices varying from 6d. to Is. 3d. per bunch.
All will be cleared out by February, or in time to plant early raised
Tomatoes. Where the water supply is not good and labour some¬
what short, the same plan may well be tried with other winter
flowering Carnations, Malmaisons excepted. The popular colours
are red, scarlet, yellow, white, and flesh pink, and the varieties
should be also those that do not invariably burst their pods. The
prices for all such vary from 33. per dozen in times of scarcity to
Is. 6d. per dozen when more plentiful — wholesale in each instance.

Bouvardias are by no means overdone in the provinces, the
double-flowering forms being worn by gentlemen, and the single
whites, notably the Jasmine-flowered varieties, in bouquets, wreaths
and crosses. These succeed well when planted out in a warm
position and rather light soil, lifting and repotting or transplanting
to a border, sharing a house, if need be, with Carnations, the latter
being given the coolest end. Callas, or Arums as generally termed,
are too often a drug in the market to be very profitable, and the
only times a good sale for them is certain are at Christmas and
Easter. Those who succeed in flowering them well at the first festival
and can contrive to have some for the latter busy time among
church decorators can afford to sell them cheaply in the interval.
At no time are the prices so good as formerly. Last Christmas 9s.
per dozen was considered a fair price, and all we had at Easter
did not reali«e 63. per dozen. They need never be grown in pots.
The old plants being dried off directly the Easter flowers are
cut, then pulled to pieces, planted out on good ground, lifted
before the middle of September, and replanted in the houses, will
pay fairly well for the little trouble expends id on them.

This brings me to yet another useful class of forcing houses,
and which market growers cannot very well dispense with. The
roofing for houses 12 feet wide and 100 feet long can be bought
cheaply, and bein? duly fixed to well buttressed 9 inch walls, or
to boarded sides, in either case 30 inches above ground, and glazed
with the best 21-oz. Belgian glass, a cheap structure is the result.
In this instance there ought to be a flow and return pipe up each
side, or the return may be brought back on each side of the central
path, while it also pays well to have a bottom heat pipe 2 feet or
so from the sides. Such structures fitted up with wooden latticed
staging, or better still with light T iron framework covered with
sheets of galvanised iron, ashes or clean shingle being placed on
this, are admirably adapted for propagating purposes, and in

particular for raising thousands of sturdy Tomatoes, Cucumbers,
and other plants. These warm houses are also the best for Cucum¬
bers, and these properly managed are, considering the short time
they are about, even more remunerative than Tomatoes. Melons,
again, succeed well in them, but for these to pay well the fruit
ought to be fairly large, prettily netted, of an attractive colour, and
perfectly sound when they reach Covent Garden in May and J une.
Later fruit had better be sent to provincial towns, and high prices
will not be had anywhere for them.

After the Cucumbers and Melons are cleared (two distinct
crops of the former being grown in one season) fit up stages for
pot plants. Maidenhair Fern should certainly be grown extensively,
the fronds finding a ready sale locally and in large centres at 4d. to
fid. per dozen, neat plants also going off well at 9s. per dozen
wholesale, and Is. each retail. Cyclamens ought also to be prepared
by the hundred for flowering in such stage-fitted houses, the flowers
of these selling freely at 4d. per dozen, or rather less at times, the
plants also finding a ready market at remunerative prices. Double
Chinese Primulas are not in great demand in a cut state, but when
well flowered in 5-inch pots they sell freely enough at 93. per
dozen. When a good stock of A. F. Barron can be propagated,
this superior variety will find ready sales in a cut state. Zonal
Pelargoniums, especially Raspails, are largely used by church
decorators, particularly at Christmas and Whitsuntide, and pay
well at an average of fid. per dozen. If strong plants are pre¬
pared in the open, and wintered clear of each other on stages
in moderately warm light houses, they will flower grandly as long
as desired.

This does not exhaust my list of plants that can be profitably
grown during the autumn and winter in houses primarily intended
for fruit culture, no mention having been made of Lily of the
Valley, Roman and miniature Hyacinths, Freesias, Narcissi, Spiraeas,
and such like, but I must be content co add that orders for aU the
latter should be placed at once, or the bulbs or roots may not be
obtained at similarly low rates if ordered much later on. —
Market Grower.

Ventilatino Orchids.

Odontooeossums are very impatient of direct sunlight ; they
should, therefore, be shaded from sun at all times, from early
spring until all danger of burning is past in late autumn. Even in
the winter during occasional short periods of bright sunshine the
blinds are let down. The plants are never allowed to become dry,
and are kept very moist during the summer. The house is
ventilated day and night all the year round. The bottom ventilators,
or those placed below the staging and about a foot above the floor,
are left partly open on the coldest of nights, full ventilation from
this point being given throughout the warm season. The top
ventilators are opened not later than 6.30 a.m. more or less during
warm weather, a little air being left on all the night in weather
like the present. The side ventilators, or those on a level with the
side staging of the house, are occasionally opened, but only to keep
down the temperature when it gets beyond the control of the top
and bottom ventilators. Side ventilation has a tendency to dry the
house and plants unduly, and should only be employed when
absolutely necessary ; 70° Fahr. may be considered the maximum
summer temperature for Odontoglossums, and 60° the average
during the summer. In winter 50°-55° is a good general tempera¬
ture, 5° either way doing no harm according to external tem¬
perature.

Cattleyas require plenty of light, air, and moisture during the
summer and early autumn, with all the sunshine available in the
autumn, winter, and early spring. Heavy shading should never be
used, only sufficient to keep the plants from scorching. Advantage
ought to be taken of every period of dulness, however short, to
remove the blinds. Permanent shading of canvas or wash should
never be used. An average temperature of 5° higher than the
Odontoglossums is necessary. They require air at all times, but
not quite so much as the Odontoglossums. I grow Odontoglossum
citrosmum, O. Harryanum, and O. grande with the Cattleyas. The
house should be kept moist, likewise the plants, during the growing
season, with a drier atmosphere and less water at the root after the
pseudo-bulbs have finished growth. A stagnant atmosphere must
be avoided at all times. Under the foregoing treatment the
Odontoglossums and Cattleyas in my care grow and flower freely.
— W. R. W.

Jn]y S, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

S

Disa Kewensis,

This is a newr hybrid which has been raised at Kew from
D. grandiflora and D. tripetaloides. It is decidedly pretty. The
leaves, scape, and general look of the plant are like those of the
hybrid D. Veitchi, the parents of which are D. grandiflora and
D. racemosa, but the flowers of D. Kewensis are smaller, being
1 \ inch across. The lateral sepals are 1 i nch long, ovate, slightly
recurved and coloured rich rose ; the posterior sepal is hooded, as
in D. grandiflora, three-fourths of an inch in diameter and coloured
rosy lavender, with red spots ; the lip is yellow inside, with trans¬
verse lines and spots of crimson. The scape is 18 inches high and
bears six flowers. The seeds were sown in November, 1891, so
that this plant is only eighteen months old. There are numerous
other plants of the same age, but only one has flowered. —
W. Watson (in “ Garden and Forest.”)

L.elia majalis.

This is a dwarf, compact-growing species, and rather a shy
bloomer, but when well flowered it is very showy. The flowers,
borne singly on the spike, appear on the young growth in spring,
and are about 5 inches across, the petals broader than the sepals,
rose colour, lip large and streaked with purple. It should be
grown in a sunny position in the Cattleya house, and when the
growths are made the plants ought to be removed to the open air
for a time. This species succeeds best on a block or in very shallow
pans.

LiELIA PURPUBATA.

This magnificent Orchid is now flowering in most places, but
it is not everywhere that fine specimens are seen. Small plants
do not show the character of the species ; but when seen in good
condition, and specimens 2 to 3 feet through, it is one of our
grandest Orchids. The habit is very robust, therefore the culture
is comparatively easy, and as plenty of water is required at the
root while growing an open compost is necessary. It should be
kept with the Oattleyas, and in a genial temperature while growing.

Aerides.

This is a beautiful genus of epiphytal Orchids, most of the
species of which are easily grown. The flowers are produced in
cylindrical racemes from the axils of the leaves, mostly near the
tops of the plants. They are usually fragrant, last a long while in
perfection, and vary in colour from white to pink and rose. All
the large growing species, of which 4. odorata is a well known type,
can best be grown in broad and shallow wood baskets. Small plants
should be suspended, but larger ones may be grown on the stages
if allowed plenty of room.

Aerides require a strong moist heat in summer with something
for the long white roots to catch hold of as they grow, and there is
nothing to equal sphagnum for this purpose. If this is renewed
every spring together with a few lumps of charcoal or ballast, large
plants may be kept in health for years without being disturbed at
the roots, and the number of flowers they produce under these
conditions is remarkable, the growth also being very free. In the
winter they should be kept drier at the root, but not sufficiently so
to cause shrivelling of the foliage or the lower leaves to fall off, as
this greatly disfigures the plants.

As a proof of the rapidity of growth under these conditions,
it may be worth mentioning that I once grew a plant of A. odorata
in three years from a small piece in an 8-inch pot to a specimen
over 2 feet through, with five or six stems, the highest of which
would be about 30 inches, and which the last season it was under
my charge produced sixteen racemes of flowers, many of them
18 inches in length. The smaller growing species, such as
A. affine and A. roseum, are rather more difficult to grow. They
require more attention in the autumn to ripen the growth made,
and should in all cases be suspended near th.e ventilators, a con¬
stant supply of fresh air being of the utmost importance.
— H. E. R.

PhALASNOPSIS ScilILLERIANA.

Enclosed is a photograph of ten plants of Phalaenopsis
Schilleriana, which were grown here this year, and bloomed in
March ; the most blooms on one plant were sixty-two, and the
least twenty. If you think this note worthy of a place in your
valuable paper you will oblige by inserting it. — Wai. McHutciieon,
The Gardens, Auchindennan, Alexandria, Durnhartonshire.

[We are always ready to insert records of good cultivation such
as the photograph represents ; it is, however, not quite suitable
for reproduction in our columns, and we suspect hardly does
justice to the plants as they were when in full beauty.]

Sale op New Orchids.

As announced in our advertisement columns last week, Messrs.
Protheroe & Morris will sell by auction at their rooms in

Cheapside, E.C., to-morrow (July 7th) a number of new Orchids
which have been imported by Messrs. F, Sander & Co., St. Albans.
These will include Eulophiella Elisabethae, Habenaria gigantea var.
sumatrana, Cypripedium Nicholsonianum, Dendrobium Phalaenopsis
var. Schroderianum, and a rosy red Oncidium from Yenezuela.

CAMPANULA PERSIOIFOLIA ALBA BACKHOUSIANA.

The Peach-leaved Bellflower, Campanula persicifolia, is a very old
garden plant. According to a writer in 1797 the species was then

FIG. 1. — campanula PERSICIPOLIA alba BACKHOUSIANA,

becoming uncommon in gardens, its place having been taken by the
improved varieties which had made their appearance even at that early
date. The number of varieties has been considerably increased since
then, and perhaps the most popular as well as the most useful is the
white form C, persicifolia alba. This has in turn been undergoing
improvement, and the variety now under notice is a considerable
advance on the older form, the pure white flowers being much
larger and finer than in the type. It is a first-rate variety for pot
culture, as it continues a long time in flower, and is said to force welL
Fig. 1 represents it. — A. B.

4

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

July G, 1893.

NOTES FROM SOUTH WALES.

The present season will be remembered as one of the hottest
and driest on record for many years past. The rainfall during
March was only 0 35 inch, which fell on six days, and the fall in
April was still less— 0 25 inch, which fell on three days. The rain¬
fall in May was 2-49 inches, but owing to the dry state of the
ground and the prevailing hot bright weather it soon evaporated,
and vegetation was little benefited by it. The fall in J une was
very low, 0'60 inch, with a high temperature and scorching sun¬
shine. The ground has been dried now to a considerable depth,
and vegetation is suffering severely for the want of rain.

All kinds of fruit trees flowered profusely this year from a
fortnight to three weeks earlier than usual. The weather was
favourable during the time they were in flower, and the fruits set
well and swelled freely until the trees began to feel the effects of
the drought, when the Apple trees began to get covered with red
spider and American blight. The fruits dropped off in great
numbers, and they have continued to drop more or less ever since,
although many of them are more than half grown. The set of
Apples and Pears was enormous, and the Pitmaston Duchess Pear
trees here had to be propped up six weeks ago to keep the branches
from being broken by the weight of fruit. Plums are a much
better crop than I anticipated early in the season, but the trees
are very much blighted with aphis. If we are favoured with
copious rain, of which there is no sign at present, there would be
a good crop left ; but the fruits will be smaller than usual.

The crops of small fruits have been very good, notwithstanding
the long-continued drought. The Strawberry plants were mulched
with rough stable litter early in January, and they have withstood
the dry hot weather well and produced a good crop, which began
to ripen at least three weeks earlier than in ordinary seasons.
Scarlet Queen ripened fully eight days before Noble, both growing
side by side on a south border. The fruits are not so large nor so
handsome looking as Noble, but they are much firmer and better
in quality. Gooseberries, Raspberries, Black, White, and Red
Currants were plentiful and of good quality in this district, but the
birds were troublesome upon those not netted.

Vegetable crops have suffered most. The early crops of Broad
Beans are covered with black aphis, and the successional crops
withered and died before coming into flower. Scarlet Runners
are also infested with black aphis ; the flowers are dropping off and
pods not setting well. Peas have grown fairly well, but soon
ripen and get too old for use. Onions, Carrots, and Turnips have
made little progress, and I am afraid they will do little good this
season. It is difficult with a short supply of water to keep up a
succession of Lettuces ; they are withering up in the drills before
they are fit for use. The winter crops — Savoys, Broccoli, Brussels
Sprouts, and Celery — are at a standstill, and in some places the
plants of the Brassica family are still in the seed bed, where
planting was delayed with the expectation of getting rain soon.
Asparagus and Seakale, also Tomatoes trained on walls, luxuriate
in this dry hot weather, which seems to suit them admirably ; but
Potatoes are losing their leaves and ripening off prematurely.

The loss among newly planted forest trees is very great. In
some places (on the hills here) all those that were planted last
season have perished, and we have lost thousands of Scotch Pine
and Larch on this estate that were planted four years ago, and had
grown to the height of 6 feet. The Larch plantations in this
district are badly diseased this season, which may in some measure
be attributed to the long drought.

The Vines in the vineyards at Castle Coch, Swanbridge, and
St. Quintin’s Castle, never looked better since they were planted.
They are covered with fruit, and the bunches are as forward now
as they usually are at the end of August. The foliage is clean
and healthy, and the young canes are stronger this year than ever
I remember them. — A. Pettigrew, Castle Gardens, Cardiff.

INSECT PESTS.

Insect pests are most abundant this year, and correspondingly
harmful to plant life. I have, on former occasions, seen a greater
plague of insects on the vegetation of a poor peaty soil, but have
never witnessed anything like the same multitude in a garden.
Up to the present the red spider has not made itself conspicuous in
the garden of which I have charge, but vaiious aphides are to be
found on many plants, fruit trees, and shrubs. It is a marked
feature of this insect visitation that vegetation growing in deep
rich soil has kept comparatively free of the pests, while, on the other
hand, plants growing in dry and shallow ground, as well as
tpes or shrubs which have stood a long period on the same
site without having received any cultural help, have been infested
with insects. This points most clearly to the beneficial aspect of

high cultivation as a deterrent to insect attack. It cannot, how¬
ever, be regarded as a settled point, because Carnations in luxuriant
growth have been much preyed upon, while Chrysanthemums in
pots have suffered from repeated attack of the aphis.

Hymenoptera have been very early afield and in great numbers.
Three species at least of the humble bee have been largely repre¬
sented. The mischief they confine themselves to, so far as the
garden is concerned, is the destruction of Carnation and Pink
flowers. Few of these have escaped them, and practically nothing
can be done to prevent their visits. The common wasp is also
more numerous than usual, hanging nests in particular being
common. I do not much object to these, as at present and for a few
weeks longer they are not f rugivorous, but distinctly insectivorous.
The foliage of infested fruit trees, m.ore particularly Pears, is
swarming with wasps. Some cottagers have been endeavouring to
destroy those colonies settled in their gardens. Where hanging
nests are easy of access no better method of extinction need be
followed than this. On a fire shovel place a few embers and
keep them in a glow until wanted by means of a little added
charcoal. Then throw a handful of flowers of sulphur on the
glowing mass, and with this stupefy the wasps. Cut down the nest,
letting it drop on the shovel, and few, if any, wasps will remain.
Cyanide of potassium is sometimes applied to wasps in burrows,
but unless the nest is dug out and destroyed within twelve hours
the colony quickly resembles in vigorous life.

Respecting the eradication of aphis, and also of other insects
which infest trees and other plants growing outdoors, it is as well
to see whether anything cannot be effected in the way of helping
the plant itself to greater vigour. To this end I advise the removal
of all superfluous, and on that account hurtful growth. Take for
example, an old wall-trained Rose tree. Even should the spring
pruning have been well done there is now sure to be many weakly
growths unable to produce buds, or in any way to further the well¬
being of the tree in general. Every one of these shoots ought to
be removed. In the case of Plum trees, which are very subject to
insect attack, similar measures must be followed ; and the same
remark applies to all kinds of trained trees. The benefit of thinning
is apparent in the number of insects which are at once cleared out,
as it is these worthless growths that harbour vermin. The
vigour of the tree is also enhanced, and any help afforded in the
way of water or manure at once reaches those shoots which are
alone capable of receiving benefit. With the growths thus thinned
remedial measures can be applied more successfully. There are
fewer leaves to reach, and these are more easily cleansed.

For cleansing on a large scale I do not know anything better or
generally easier to procure than soapsuds. Progressive laundresses
do not now employ soda as a softener of water, but in cases where
soda is used it is doubtful if it does any harm. To a large tubful
of suds add a quart of petroleum, then with a syringe churn the
suds until the mineral is assimilated. To any tree requiring
cleansing apply this solution in the evening. Follow in an hour
with another cleansing of pure water, and if the work is properly
done few, if any, insects of any sort will be left. American blight
succumbs to the same agent. In this case, however, it is necessary
to direct with some force the spray from the syringe on the insect-
infested spots. Currants and Gooseberries, which are sometimes
attacked by aphis, are most expeditiously cleaned by removing the
points of the shoots. I clean the buds of Carnations by means of
a slight dusting of tobacco powder. Chrysanthemum shoots are
rendered clean in the same way.

Turning to the inmates of glass structures, the only difficult
pest I have had to deal with has been mealy bug. During
the time the heat lasted mealy bug multiplied with rapidity.
Stephanotis in flower was attacked perhaps the worst ; but also on
some old Vines, which have given little trouble for many years, the
pest increased most alarmingly. Asparagus in a hot stove also
became quickly dirty. The break up of the drought brought a
desired opportunity, and with one day’s cleaning not many of the
enemy was left. The Grape Vines took longest to clean, as it was
needful to go carefully over every rod, shoot, leaf, and bunch, the
latter with a camel hair pencil, the others with a sponge. I used
as an insecticide a strong solution of softsoap, with a very small
quantity of petroleum added. The sponge and the pencil were
dipped in the solution, then squeezed almost free of moisture, and
the insects thereafter touched lightly with either. The Vines will
require to be looked to again in order to destroy those which
escaped notice, and I am hopeful that not much mealy bug will be
seen again for a long lime to come. Stephanotis, Asparagus, Palms,
and other plants not easily injured were syringed with a solution of
soapy water ap.d petroleum, followed closely with clean water. It
is well to note that shade from sunshine is advantageous for a few
days after cleansing.

It is curious to observe how insects attack the same plant year
after year. I had a Vine which regularly developed red spider at

JnJy 6, 1693. }

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

5

a certain stage of its growth. In another structure a Vine with the
same regularity experienced an attack from thrips. On examina¬
tion it was found that both Vines were growing in positions where
they were likely to become dry at the roots more quickly than their
neighbours. By increasing the supply of water along with an extra
application of manure the insects have entirely disappeared.
Thrips are almost always introduced to plants by maintaining a
high temperature. In the case of a heat-loving plant like the
Croton, one is apt to think that this could not be the case ; but it
is so if a hot drying sun shines directly on the plants. Red spider
is most often brought into prominence by dryness at the root.
Warm soapy water applied at about 110° is an excellent insecticide
for eradicating red spider. In all cases, however, it is best to see
that there is no check to healthy root action, and if there is to
remove the cause forthwith. — B.

STRAWBERRY FARMING.

During any ordinary season Strawberries should now be coming in
(in bulk) from our English fields, but a visitor to any of the gardens in
Hants or Kent would clearly see that for this year the picking is over.
As a rule the crop lasts about a month, and 1893 has been no exception
to the rule. Since the last fortnight in May the beautiful and whole¬
some fruit has been pouring into the London and provincial markets by
the ton. Prices have been good, and many growers have had solid
reason to rub their hands with delight ; but although in some cases the
returns have been far beyond the average, in others probably ruin, on
account of the long drought, stares men in the face. As the season has
been so exceptional, and the success of growers so diverse, it may be
advantageous to look a little closer into the mystery of Strawberry
farming, with the experience of the past three months still fresh in the
mind, and inquire if anything can be done to ensure still further success
another year.

It goes without saying that Strawberry growing is a paying occupa¬
tion. I have watched the business for the past nine years in Hampshire,
and have seen acre after acre laid down. Young men start with say
half an acre, and after the second season a pony-cart appears on the
scene, and more land is taken up and planted. There must be money in
the business. Further, it seems that Surrey is making a start, for I saw
two large fields not far from Farnham a few days ago, and I honestly
say that the plants and crop were fully up to the standard of Hampshire
beds ; and if Surrey starts, I see no reason why this crop should not be
much more extensively grown in the south of England generally, for the
demand for fruit is increasing, and even if the price realised is only
Is. Gd. to 2s. per gallon, the yield is quite three times the value of Potatoes
grown upon an equal area, and the risks of failure are not nearly so
great. Foreign fruit usually appears in advance of English, but we
know well the superiority, not only in appearance and colour, but in
flavour also, of our English-grown Tomatoes and Strawberries, and this
superiority governs the market. Certainly all the returns come during
one month, or at most six weeks of the year, and the labour is spread,
more or less, over the other eleven months ; but to men who contem¬
plate taking allotments, if the land is fairly suitable as regards aspect
and retentive power, I would strongly advise them to try a few rods of
Strawberries, particularly if they are within reach of a fairly large
town. There is room for speculation here. Many people hardly know
the meaning of a gallon of Strawberries, who would be pleased to buy
such for 23. or 2s. 6d., fine freshly picked fruit, at 4d. or 5d. per pound.

I might say much more, but we propose looking at the experiences
gained during the past three months, and to do this tersely and yet
thoroughly is a difficult matter. I have certainly found it a general
rule that the men who have done best are those whose plots are
situated upon a fairly rich loamy soil with retentive subsoil, who
have gone in heavily for autumn manuring and cleaning, and who
have simply throughout the spring right up to the period of bedding
up, kept the hoe at work, in many cases to such an extent that the
surface (but surface only) soil was almost as dusty as the road.

Some have done well upon light soils, but only in cases where the
soils have been consolidated by continual treading during the hoeing
process. Whatever the class of soil, I believe most strongly that the
hoe can account for much. A good porous gravelly subsoil for an early
crop, but unless the season is a rainy one there is little chance of a
month’s picking. I am perfectly certain that any cleaning work done
in the spring is disastrous, for the young fibrous roots of the plants
make growth very early, and growers cannot afford to injure these and
weaken their plants.

It is clearly seen that by continual hoeing the soil must be
compressed, and evaporation retarded. Moisture is greatly needed for
the Strawberry, as the size is thereby regulated ; and it is only those
who have watched the development of the fruit, and its wonderfully
quick manner of filling out and ripening, who can testify to the
importance for suitable soil and retentive subsoil.

There are many other points of interest that readily suggest them¬
selves to the mind, but I may later on deal with the varieties most
suited for market purposes, the modes of general cultivation in the
Hampshire district, the gathering and marketing the crop, the treatment
of the beds after the crop is off, and when running out of condition
through age.

The profit and loss account is hardly obtainable, as in many cases,

and perhaps wisely, the growers would not care to tell us much ;
but I must add that they are often deprived of a good share of
their well-earned cash by the middleman. — Edward H. Smith,
Warminste}',

Rose Show Fixtures in 1893.

July 6th (Thursday). — Bath, Farningham, Manchester, and Norwich.

„ 7th (Friday). — Ulverston.

„ 11th (Tuesday). — Harleston and Wolverhampton.f
„ 12th (Wednesday). — Earl’s Court and Tunbridge Wells.

„ 13th (Thursday). — Worksop (N.R.S.), and Woodbridge.

,, 14th (Friday). — Helensburgh.

„ 15th (Saturday). — New Brighton.

„ 20th (Thursday). — Bedford and Trentham.

„ 25th (Tuesday). — Tibshelf.

„ 27th (Thursday). — Halifax and Southwell.

„ 29th (Saturday ). — Bedale.

f Show lasting three days.

— Edward Mawley, Roselanh, BerltTiamsted, Herts.

National Rose Show at Worksop.

I SHALL esteem it a favour if you will allow me to make the follow¬
ing communication to intending exhibitors through your columns this
week. To the train leaving King’s Cross at 10,40 P.M. of July 12th,
the Great Northern Railway Company has kindly consented to attach a
special van for Rose boxes. This train will take up at Hitchin. It will
be met at Worksop, where it arrives at 2.18 A.M , and the boxes can, if
exhibitors so wish, go direct to the Show ground and be placed in charge
of a night watchman.

The next train out of King’s Cross is 5.15 A.M. (morning of 13th July).
This, Mr. Cockshott, the Superintendent of the line, tells me is one of
the heaviest and fastest trains of the day, and on that account it will
not be practicable to attach to it an extra van. Mr. Cockshott will,
however, make arrangements for conveyance of exhibitors’ boxes by this
train, if I can give him some idea of the number of boxes and from what
stations they will require to be conveyed. The train will take up at
Retford at 8.20 and reach Worksop at 8.31 a m. There is another
train from Retford at 8.23, reaching Worksop at 8.40 a.m,, and
exhibitors joining the M.S. and L. system at Retford (especially those
bringing much cargo) will find more accommodation by it than by the
express.

From Sheffield exhibitors will find a van for their boxes on the train
leaving at 7,15 A.M., and I am asking the Midland Company to make
due provision on the train leaving Nottingham at 6 A.M. and Mansfield
3pt 7 A.M*

I shall be much obliged if exhibitors intending to make use of the
5.15 A.M. train will at once let Mr. George Baxter (our Hon. Secretary,
69, Bridge Street, Worksop) or myself know, a3_ near as may be, what
they will bring with them, and where they will join the train, so that I
may be able to reply to Mr. Cockshott’s inquiries. No doubt so far as
the railway company is concerned the 10.40 p m. train is best. It will
be a help to the local Committee to know the number of boxes they will
have to meet by the other trains, but this is of less consequence,
James Snow 31, Parli Street, Worltsoj).

Orange Fungus on Roses.

I HAVE not seen Mr. W, G. Smith’s “ clear and well illustrated ”
contribution on this fungus in the “ Rosarian’s Year Book” for 1887.
My experience of the parasite does not accord with “W . R. Raillem s
(page 497, last vol.). But different fungi are termed “Orange” that
infest Roses besides the one above named, as Coleosporium pingue, Lev.,
and Dothidea Rosre, Fr. I must also demur to your correspondent s
dictum that it is the latter stage of Phragmidium mucronatum that
does the most harm to Roses, for it is the mycelium of the fungus
that does the whole damage, and this first produces the Lecythea Rosae,
whilst the Phragmidium is borne from the same mycelia and has none
independent of the other. — G. Abbey.

National Rose Society’s Tea and Noisette Exhibition.

This was unquestionably the best of the series of Exhibitions that
the Society has held, and the quality and correctness of the blooms
were far in advance of any show of the kind held any where. We n^ive
had some in wet seasons, when the outer petals of the flowers had to
be pulled off, and the blooms looked very naked ; we have had others
in showery weather, when the flowers were spotted and discoloure ,
but this long season of drought has enabled exhibitors to show .their
flowers in the perfection of colour and form, The date on which it

6

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 6, 1893.

vf&3 held caught these flowers just in their prime, and I very much
doubt whether at the Crystal Palace or elsewhere we shall see during
the present season such a collection of Teas and Noisettes brought
together.

The peculiarities of the season brought about some curious results,
There has always been a keen competition between the growers of Tea
Roses in East Anglia and the West of England. During the two last
years victory has remained with the latter, but this year the course of
things has been changed. It is true that Dr. Budd of Bath was suc¬
cessful, but of our two champions, Mr. Alex. Hill Gray and thei Rev.
F. R. Burnside, we might well say “ How the mighty have fallen ! ”
Knowing well as I do the warm situation in which Mr. Gray grows his
plants I was quite prepared to find that in this season he had suffered
from the long drought and the invasions of thrips and other attendant
calamities. I cannot quite as well understand Mr. Burnside’s position,
because last week he earried everything before him at York. I am
told that his flowers there were of a very first-rate character, but I
wa* sorry to hear him say that he doubted very much whether he should
be able to put in an appearance at the Crystal Palace. But the East
Anglian Rose growers were this year very much to the front. In the
nurserymen’s class all the principal prizes fell to the Colchester
growers, Messrs. B. R. Cant, Frank Cant, and Prior & Son. It is
6rue that at the trial of East Anglian parsons the Revs. H. A. Berners,
F. Page Roberts did not put in an appearance, but the Rev. Foster
Melliar exhibited in a form we have never seen before. His box of
twelve was I think the most perfect one in the Show, and his bloom of
Souvenir d’Elise which gained the N.R.S.’s silver medal as the best
bloom in the Show, was a splendid flower. I have seen larger blooms of
the variety, but never one in which the perfection of form and colour
were more strikingly developed.

Another satisfactory feature of the Exhibition was the keen com¬
petition that took place in many of the amateur classes. There had
been times when there were hardly stands suflBcient for the prizes
offered, and when the question arose whether some of those to which
they were awarded were really worthy of it ; but in the case of this
Exhibition nothing of the kind occurred, for in many of the classes
from seven to fourteen stands were shown ; and although not very
pleasant to those who were left out in the cold, it was more agreeable to
those who won to know that they had had a hard fight for it. On some
former occasions, too, a large proportion of the blooms had been either
from walls or from houses, but I doubt very much whether there were
any shown at this Exhibition that were not from the open ground,
hence it more answered the wishes and expectations of the Society,
which never intended that it should be a show for Teas and Noisettes
under glass. Although the general character of the flowers was that
which I have endeavoured to describe, one of great excellence, there were
few blooms that stood out pre-eminently grand. There were some fine
blooms of Comtesse de Nadaillac and Souvenir de Th6r^se Levet in Mr.
Poster-Melliar’s stand, very bright, though a colour, I think, out of place
aTuongst the delicate and refined Teas. One of the most remarkable
Wooma in the Exhibition was one of that fine Rose of old Margottin’s,
Boule d’Or, shown in Mr. Budd’s stand of Bath, one nearly equally good
being in Mr. Foster-Melliar’s stand. Marie Van Houtte was exhibited
in many stands in excellent form, having that beautiful yellowish ground
with pink on the edge which is really its true character. Mr. Grahame
of Croydon had also some excellent blooms, and it is pleasant to find
that both he and Mr. Foster-Melliar, who have done so much to instruct
rosarians by their writings, have shown that they can carry into
successful practice theories they have advocated.

It is hardly necessary to say that in the stands from Colchester in
the nurserymen’s class there were a number of very superior blooms ;
indeed, as I stood by the experienced amateurs who judged in this class
1 was struck by the high number of points given to each stand. Nor
can I omit a word of praise to the beautiful dozen of Mar6chal Niel
exhibited in this division. It is a somewhat curious thing that
although the Society offers very good prizes for a decorative arrange¬
ment of Teas and Noisettes in basket, vase, epergne, or indeed anything
suitable, we never seem to be able to get beyond three competitors.
The competition is confined to ladies, and the Committee had hoped
that there would have been a larger number of them to enter the lists.
The three competitors is this instance were Mrs. Orpen of Colchester,
Miss Bloxam, and Mrs. Mawley, to whom the prizes were awarded
in the order named. Mrs. Orpen’s was a delightful arrangement in
which apricot colour predominated. Miss Bloxam had a very neatly
arranged basket, the foliage of which mainly consisted of the leaves
of Rosa rubrifolia, the dark colour of which afforded a good contrast.
Mrs. Mawley’s arrangement was very pretty, and the Roses in it were
excellent in quality. — D., Beal.

CANKER IN FRUIT TREES.

The following cutting from the “ Revue Horticole ” may be interesting
to your readers: — “ It is now known that the cause of canker in fruit
trees is a microscopic fungus named Nectria ditispima, which rapidly
©xteuds its ravages, but which can be effectively brought under control.
For this purpose the cankered parts should be cut away and dressed
with a pruning knife, after whieh a mixture of the bouillie bordelaise
containing 3 per cent, of sulphate of copper and 6 per cent, of lime
should be applied to the affected parts with a paint brush. This appli-
aation may be repeated once or twice in the course of the summer.”

This, it will be seen, bears out Mr. Abbey’s remarks on page 115 of the
Journal of Horticulture, February 9th of this year.— One Interested.

Whatever may be the cause of canker in fruit trees, there certainly is
a great deal more of it when a severe winter follows a cold wet summer. Is
it because the sap is frozen and bursts the cells, causing a rupture through
which the sap comes, forming a gummy substance ? When a dozen trees
of one sort are planted, and only one is cankered, may not that one be
rooted deeper, or in some way have more moisture at the root, causing it
to grow later, and consequently get the sap frozen in it while the others
escape ? Has anyone noticed whether those varieties most subject to
canker are naturally later in finishing their growths ?

On February 16th, 1892, we had 38° of frost here, which killed
many branches of fruit and other trees ; and as we had mild weather
previous, which caused the sap to move, may I ask if the cause of death
would be frozen sap ? These are only thoughts from observations of
canker after severe winters, and are not proven facts of canker from
that cause. — B. L. J., Leicester. _

The above is such an important matter that in a paper that treats on
pomology so fully as the Journal of Horticulture no apology is needed
to introduce the subject. I have not the pleasure of the personal
acquaintance of Mr. Abbey, but I have reason to think that his theory
of the cause is the right one, and that the remedy for the cure is
a good one which was fully detailed by Mr. Abbey in the Journal of
Horticulture early in the present year. I purchased the necessary
ingredients at a chemist’s in our nearest market town, and mixed it
according to the directions given, and applied it to seventy standard
Apple trees which have been planted, some ten and others fourteen
years, thirty-four pyramid Pear trees, and twenty-four espalier Apple
trees, mostly of about twenty years’ growth.

What caused my anxiety with regard to canker was this. Some of
the first planted Apple trees (standards) were very healthy, with
fine heads ; but in the autumn and winter of 1892 I noticed several
trees badly attacked with canker, notably Cox’s Orange Pippin and
Warner’s King ; and among the Pears Glou Morgeau and Seckle.
I applied the remedy, and I am pleased to say that the trees are already
healthier. Canker seems to be arrested, and the trees are carrying a
fine crop of fruit. I shall have to prop many of the Apples and Pears,
and the trees that were dressed with the canker mixture were not nearly
so much affected with caterpillars as those trees left undressed. We
have a new orchard containing several hundred trees, and I hope to
dress the trees in the same manner next year.

Why I think Mr. Abbey’s theory of fungus being the cause of canker,
and being propagated by spores carried by the wind, insects, or other
means of infection, is this. In the early spring of 1891 I purchased
some new maiden Apple trees, thinking to form them into espaliers. I
procured them from a good source. Among them was a plant of the
new Apple Bismarck. They were clean, healthy little trees on the
Paradise stock. For want of other space I was obliged to plant this
particular tree of Bismarck near to a tree of Old Hawthornden which
was affected with canker, and in the autumn of 1892 I noticed one of
the branches on the small tree of Bismarck was cankered, which I have
enclosed for your inspection. Now, in this case the soil was good, the
roots near the surface, and the ground had been specially dressed with
supposed antidotes to canker and its cause in the soil. — R. Maher,
T/ie Gardens, Yattendon Coiirt, Nevohury.

NIGHT-BLOOMING CEREUS.

Mr. Mark B. F. Major is, I think, mistaken in supposing Cereus
Macdonaldim to be the plant which was lost a number of years ago in
his late father’s interesting collection. If he will refer back to the
Journal for June 12th, 1884, page 464, he will find a paragraph on the
same flowering at Cromwell House under the care of the late Mr. W.
Wright. The bloom when expanded measured 14 inches across. On the
following week, June 19th, page 492, the plant is mentioned again.
The variety referred to is the result of a cross between C. grandiflorus
and C. speciosissimus. It was a remarkably fine healthy plant, trailing
with other night-bloomers over a large wire arch figured in the Journal
for May 22nd, 1884. I have had the pleasure of seeing it in flower on
more than one occasion since then. It was raised by Mr. Kenny,
gardener to Viscount Maynard, Easton Lodge, Dunmow. — G. W.
Cummins.

Mr. Major’s very clear description of some varieties of this Cactus
enables me to determine with more confidence that my free-flowering
variety is Cereus grandiflorus. Will you once more extend the courtesy
of your columns to me to ask any grower of this Cereus what is the
greatest number of blooms he has had on any one evening on one plant?
Mr. Major says, “ We seldom had more than one, and I think never
more than two out on the same plant at one time.” This, as far as it
goes, seems to bear out my idea that nine fully expanded blooms of
Cereus grandiflorus on one plant on the same evening may be a very
unusual, as it certainly is a very magnificent display. — Richard J.
Hilton.

[It is recorded in the Journal of Horticulture, page 422, May 29th,
1884, on the authority of Mr. Siddal of Chester, that a large specimen
of Cereus grandiflorus in a house at Pendyffryn, Wales, has had from
sixty to eighty flowers open at one time.]

July 6, IMJ. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

7

Events of the Week. — Horticulturists will be busy during the
ensuing week. Apart from the Rose shows, a list of which is given on
another page, several events of special horticultural interest will take
place. As mentioned elsewhere, the Royal Horticultural Society will on
July 11th have an exhibition at Chiswick, with which the show of the
Carnation and Picotee Society will be held. On the following day a
special show of Roses, Carnations and fruit will take place at the
Gardening and Forestry Exhibition, Earl’s Court, whilst in the evening
the Worshipful Company of Gardeners will dine at the Hotel M4tropole.
Wolverhampton Floral F6te opens on the 11th inst. Woodbridge
(Suffolk) Show will be held on the 13th. A great Orchid sale will take
place on Friday next, the 7th, at Messrs. Protheroe & Morris’ Auction
Rooms.

- The Weather in London. — Warm, bright weather again

characterised the greater portion of the past week. Sunday was very
hot, and the same may be said of Monday. Tuesday was likewise warm
hut less sunny than the three preceding days, and a refreshing rain fell
at night. Wednesday opened cloudy but very warm.

- Show Reports. — The crowd of Rose and other shows is so

great that it is impossible the whole of them can be reported, but
•efforts are made to report those which have been advertised in our
columns, or exhibitions of general interest of which schedules have been
sent and reporters’ tickets received. Reports arriving on Wednesday
morning, and for which no space has been reserved, are too late for
insertion. We desire to thank all correspondents who send us notes on
local shows and matters of public interest.

- Carnations and Picotees at Earl’s Court. — Arrange¬
ments have been made for Carnations and Picotees to be exhibited at
the Rose and Fruit Show to be held at the Gardening and Forestry
Exhibition, Earl’s Court, on July 12th. Seven classes are provided in
the supplementary schedule just issued, and liberal prizes are offered.

- The employes of Messrs. Richard Smith & Co., St. John’s

Nurseries, Worcester, had their nineteenth annual excursion on Monday,
the 19 th ult. Llandudno was the place chosen for this year’s outing,
and accompanied by their wives and friends, the whole party numbering
450, travelled by way of the Severn Valley in a special train of carriages
provided by the G.W.R. Co. The firm have intimated their intention
to close their nurseries and seed establishment to-day (Thursday), in
honour of the Royal wedding, and to pay their employes for the day as
usual.

- Woodbridge Horticultural Society. — The annual Exhi¬
bition of this Society will be held in the Abbey Grounds on Thursday,
July 13th. Roses form a special feature at this Show, the principal
prize being a 25-guinea challenge cup with the National Rose Society’s
silver-gilt medal for twenty-four distinct varieties. The competition in
this tempting class ought to be keen.

- Wolverhampton Exhibition Floral Fete. — This annual

event will be held in the Public Park, Wolverhampton, on July 11th
and the two following days. A liberal prize schedule has been prepared,
and in addition to the money awards for plants, Roses, flowers and
fruit, gold, silver, and bronze medals are offered for exhibits of Pansies
and Violas.

- Chiswick Garden Flower Show.— On Tuesday, July 11th,

the Royal Horticultural Society will hold a special flower Show in the
Chiswick Gardens, which are close to Acton Green, Turnham Green,
Gunnersbury, Chiswick, and Kew Bridge Stations. The Fruit, Floral,
and Orchid Committees will meet at 11 A.M. precisely. Lady George
Hamilton has kindly consented to distribute the prizes in the afternoon.
The band of Her Majesty’s Royal Horse Guards (Blues), under the
direction of Mr. Charles Godfrey, R.A.Mus., will perform during the day.
The Exhibition will be open to the public from 1 to 8 p.m. The
Fellows of the Society and special subscribers will be admitted at
twelve o’clock noon. Intending exhibitors should communicate the
nature of their exhibits to Mr. Barron at once, so that the proper space
can be allotted.

- French Hono^'RS. — We learn from Nature that the French

Academy has awarded the Prix Desmazieres to M. P. Viala, for his
researches on viticulture ; the Prix Montague to M. l’Abb6 Hue, for his
work in lichenology ; and the Prix de la Fons Mellcocq to M. Maseleff,
for his work on the Botanical Geography of the north of France.

- Awards for Scientific Agriculture. — We understand

that the Albert medal of the Society of Arts for the present year has
been awarded to Sir John Bennet Lawes and a like medal to Mr. John
Henry Gilbert “ for their joint services to scientific agriculture, and
notably for the researches which throughout a period of fifty years have
been carried on by them at the experimental farm, Rothamsted.”

— ^ Bulbous Irises. — The lecture on “ Bulbous Irises ” given by
Professor Michael Foster at the meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society on May 8th, 1892, has been published in pamphlet form. Some
of the species are illustrated, which enhances the eighty-five pages that
form the iroclmre. Much useful information is conveyed in the lecture,
which is well worth a perusal by all admirers of these beautiful flowers.

- Heuchera SANGUINEA.— Looking over a large bed of this

beautiful hardy plant I saw the other day growing in Mr. B. Ladham’s
nursery at Southampton, I was struck with the rich colour found in one
seedling plant, that gave at once darker foliage and larger flowers, of
more intense colour. This is a form that could hardly help displacing
the common variety. When it becomes abundant it will probably be
termed atropurpurea. — A. D.

- A Use for Tomato Leaves. — An Indian paper remarks,

“ Tomato leaves have proved to be of value in an unexpected direction.
It has been found that water in which a quantity of fresh Tomato
leaves have been steeped, when sprinkled over Peach, Roses, and Orange
trees, had the effect of totally routing the numerous insects of all kinds
which infested the trees, and in two days’ time not one of these pests
was to be found.” A trial would be interesting.

- Thb Uaisy Pea. — I saw this fine dwarf Pea growing

admirably at Claremont, Esher, recently, and Mr. Murrell is greatly
taken with it. In height and appearance it much reminds me of
Robert Fenn Pea, a very delicious dwarf Marrow it was my fortune to
raise some years ago by crossing Premier, a variety then well known,
with Little Gem. The Daisy Pea should be in great request for cottagers
and allotment holders who wish to utilise to the utmost every inch of
their soil. — A. D.

- Double Annual Chrysanthemums. — Amongst the annual

Chrysanthemums flowering outdoors the new double varieties promise
to give excellent results. They are dwarfer than the single forms.
A great per-centage of them come perfectly double, and the colours
cover many shades we looked for in vain amongst the single varieties.
For cutting they are of great value, remaining in perfect condition for
several days. When once they become better known they are sure to
be extensively grown. — R. P. R.

- Wakefield Paxton Society. — At the meeting of the

members of this Society last week Mr. J. G. Brown, gardener at Hatfield
Hall, read a practical paper, in which he clearly and fully explained
the best mode of cultivating Strawberries, and named some of the
best varieties suitable for the soil in the district. He also explained the
manner in which Strawberries are grown in Kent, in the district of
Bath, and at other places where they are extensively cultivated. A long
and interesting discussion followed the essay.

- A Digging Competition. — The monthly meeting of the

Widcombe Institute Horticultural Club, held recently, took the form of
a digging competition. At half-past seven a large number of members
assembled at Wansdyke, Claverton Down, the residence of Mr. R. A.
Moger, the Hon. Secretary, and proceeded to a large garden at the rear
of the house, where the space set apart for the digging had been marked
out. Each competitor, who could use a fork or spade, had to dig half
a perch of ground in a manner most suitable for a crop of Cauliflower
or Broccoli, and to use the manure provided in the way he considered
most suitable. Seven entered for the contest, and their work was
watched with interest by the spectators. Messrs. T. Collett and
W. Crew were the Judges, and points were given for time, style, and
the application of manure. The Judges had a considerable difficulty
in awarding the prizes, but finally the first was given to Mr. Wale, the
second to Mr. Ball, and a third prize (kindly given by Mr. Heafield) to
Mr. F. Hooper, Mr. G. Hooper receiving a certificate of merit. After
the competition the company adjourned to the lawn of Wansdyke, where
Mrs. Moger provided an excellent supper.

8

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Jnly 6, 18W.

- Gardening Appointment.— Mr. Henry Angus, late general

foreman at Wykeham Abbey, Yorkshire, has been appointed gardener at
Coupland Castle, Wooler, Northumberland.

- Trop.eolum Mrs. Clibran. — This is unquestionably a great

acquisition to our list of bedding Tropfeolums. Throughout all the
dry weather the plants have been covered with bloom. It associates
well with the scarlet variety Fire King. — R. P. R.

- Alexander Peach Outdoors. — I began to gather this early

Peach on June 23rd. Early Beatrice will soon be ready. This is
exactly four weeks in advance of last year at this place (North Hants),
showing what effect the excessive heat and drought has had on Peach
trees. — H. C., Froylc Park.

- Mr. Joseph Theobald.— This faithful servant of Mr. George

Bunyard and much respected man died on the 29th ult. after a short
illness. He was for thirty years “ florist ” foreman in the Maidstone
establishment, previously with Mr. B. Cant of Colchester, and was well
known in the southern counties.

- Dr. Nansen’s Arctic Expedition. — We are requested to state

that Messrs. Cadbury, of Bournville, have supplied about 1500 lbs.
weight of their cocoa essence and chocolate in hermetically sealed
tins, as a portion of the provisions, which must keep good for at
least seven years, taken for this expedition.

- The Weather in Hertfordshire. — Mr. E. Wallis, The

Gardens, Hamels Park, Buntingford, Herts, writes : — “ The weather
during the past month has still remained exceptionally dry and bright,
there being only one full dull day. Rain is everywhere needed. During
the past four months only 2-67 of rainfall have been registered. Rain
has fallen on eleven days during the past month. Maximum in any
twenty-four hours was 0-25 on the 22nd ; minimum in any twenty-four
hours was 0 01 on the 25th. Total during the whole month, 0 88,
against 2- 71 of 1892.”

- Awards at the Earl’s Court Show. — Extreme pressure

on our space last week prevented us mentioning that Messrs. W. Paul
and Sons, Waltham Cross, were awarded a silver-gilt medal' for a
charming collection of Roses at the Earl’s Court Show on June 28th.
Mr. W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall, Stamford, secured a silver medal for
some well-grown Peaches ; Mr. J. R. Chard, Stoke Newington, for floral
decorations ; and Mr. J. Forbes, Hawick, for a collection of Delphiniums.
Extra prizes were awarded to Messrs. T. Rivers & Sons for a collection
of fruit ; J. Cheal & Sons, for cut flowers ; Jarman & Co., for vegetables ;
and W. Berridge, for Tomatoes. First-class certificates were awarded
to Mr. T. S. Ware for Begonias Queen Victoria, Champion, and Miss
Fanny Fell ; Mr. W. Allan, Gunton Park Gardens, for Strawberry
Gunton Park ; and to Mr. Anthony Waterer, Knaphill, for Spirma
“Anthony Waterer,” a very dwarf growing pink flowered form.

- Allotments AT Richmond. — Two years since a large demand

for allotments in Richmond having arisen, the Corporation, as the local
authority under the Allotments Act, sought to obtain a portion of the
Old Deer Park for the purpose, but failed. Effort was then made to obtain
land in another direction, and eventually some 20 acres that had been
for many years under market garden cultivation, and situated between
the Sheen Road and the South-Western Railway on the eastern side of
the town, were secured ; this the Corporation obtained a long lease of,
and after setting out roads, marked off into 196 allotments in areas
ranging from 10 to 20 rods. The ground is of an excellent nature, but
had been v/orked only some 10 inches deep at the most, and whilst this
season for the first time is, in spite of the. drought, carrying excellent
crops, yet will be greatly improved when more deeply worked and
manured. The allotment holders comprise men engaged in every
description of occupation, not a few had ever had a garden or allotment
previously. The general aspect of the plots is excellent ; cropping is
perhaps too crowded, but that will be amended by time ; weeds are entirely
absent, and in every part there is remarkable neatness. The appreciation
in which the allotments are held is indeed in many cases bordering on
enthusiasm. The men seem as if a new life, with new aims, desires, and
enjoyments had opened up before them. A more complete vindication of
the capacity of workers of all descriptions to properly cultivate and
appreciate allotments cannot be found in the kingdom; On Saturday
21th ult., representing the Surrey County Council Technical Educa¬
tion Committee, Mr. A. Dean, Kingston, inspected the allotments and
afterwards addressed the workers on the ground, describing the best
methods of cultivation, forms of cropping, dealing with plant pests, and
was listened to for an hour with the deepest interest.

- Margaret Carnations. — Plants of these Carnations appear

to be wonderfully quiek in producing flowers. I sowed some seed about
the middle of February and grew the plants in heat, afterwards giving
them cool treatment, finally planting some outdoors. These and others
in pots standing out of doors are now full of buds. — E. M.

- The Gunton Park Strawberries. — I fully agree with Mr,

Dean of Kingston in his estimate of the Strawberries he refers to on
page 521. I have had the pleasure to receive a box of each variety.
They travel well, and are in colour, shape, and flavour excellent. I
think they are worthy of a trial in large and small gardens. — J OHN
Andrews, Ron. Sec. to the WoodhrUlge Horticultural Society.

- The Phylloxera. — It is reported that “the phylloxera has-

appeared in the vineyards of the province of Trapani (Sicily), in which
Marsala is situated. This is the only province of the island which has-
hitherto been exempt from the visitation. The districts where the
disease has been discovered are Alcamo and Partinico. A Government
commission has been despatched to the spot to combat the scourge.”

- Sun Heat. — Mr. S. Arnott, referring to the “ intense heat ”■

near Dumfries on Monday last, says the thermometer hanging against-
a wall in the full sun registered 100° at 2.45 on Monday last. This
would indicate pleasant weather to some southerners, who have
languished under 90° in the shade this year and 120° in the sun. We
have known this heat exceeded on more than one occasion on a south
wall.

- Exhibiting Raspberries. — It is a common occurrence to see

these exhibited without stalks at cottage shows, and even amongst
amateurs the practice is prevalent ; but I do not remember having
noticed a gardener stage them in that way. It is difficult to initiate
the former in the correct method of presenting all their exhibits, but
the latter should surely need no such drilling. They would hardly
send fruit as dessert to the table minus the stalks. — E. M.

- Canterbury Bells. — These plants make a grand display in

the borders during May, June, and July. If the seed is sown late ii>
the year the plants are weakly in the autumn, and from them strong
flower spikes cannot be had. The middle of June is a good time to sow
seed of any approved variety. Dean’s strain I consider very good, the
colours being decided, and the flowers large. The single flowers are
the most effective. If the weather is dry, well water the ground a few
hours before sowing the seed. Cover the seed thinly with fine soil, and
shade the bed until the seedlings appear above ground, when they should
have all the light available to induce a sturdy growth. When the
plants are large enough to handle put them out where they are to-
flower, or in well dug land 8 inches apart until the autumn. — S.

- Royal Meteorological Society. — The last meeting of this

Society for the present session was held on Wednesday evening, the
21st ult., at the Institution of Civil Engineers, 25, Great George Street,
Westminster, Dr. C. Theodore Williams (President) in the chair. Mr,
R. H. Scott, F.R.S., read a paper on “ Fifteen Years’ Fogs in the British
Islands, 1876-1890,” which was a discussion of the fog observations
made at the stations whieh appear in the “ Daily Weather Report.’^
The winter is the foggiest season, and the greatest number of fog
observations are reported from London, Yarmouth, Oxford, and
Ardrossan. In the summer half year the fog prevalence attains a local
maximum in two different districts — viz., at Scilly, St. Ann’s Head,
and Roche’s Point in the south-west, and at Sumburgh Head and Wick
in the north. These are evidently sea fogs, accompanying warm
weather. Mr. Scott has made a collation of the observations of fog
and the force of the wind, and finds that fog almost invariably occurs
only with calm or very light winds. The author says that it seems
to be generally assumed that fogs in London are increasing in frequency
and in severity. From the observations it appears that there is no trace
of a regular increase either in the monthly or in the annual curve.
All that can be said is that taking the three lustral periods of five years
each, the last of these (1886-90) comes out markedly the worst, the
successive totals being 262, 250, and 322. A paper on “ Upper Currents
of Air over the Arabian Sea,” by Mr. W. L. Dallas, F.R.Met.Soc., of the
Indian Meteorological Office, was also read, in which it is shown that
there exists a regular arrangement in the vertical succession of the
upper currents ; and that the Doldrum region, and not the geographical
equator, is really the dividing line between the currents of the northern
and southern hemispheres. Mr. E. D. Archibald, M.A., F.R.Met.Soc.,
also gave an address on “ Australian Climate and Weather,” which
was illustrated by a number of interesting lantern slides.

July 6, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

9

- Agricultural Science. — According to a daily contemporary

Cambridge is about to institute an examination in agricultural science.
The subjects of examination — each subject of course treated with
special reference to agriculture — are botany, chemistry, physiology and
hygiene, entomology, geology, mechanics and engineering, book-keeping,
and agriculture. The last, however, with surveying, veterinary science,
and economics in relation to agriculture, will, or may, form part of a
further examination to be taken after the others. The candidate who
has passed both will be entitled to a diploma, and the candidate who has
passed one to a certificate. It is also recommended that the managing
syndicate shall entertain applications for the appointment of persons
to inspect schools of agriculture or horticulture that receive grants of
public money, and give regular instruction in these subjects.

- Gas Lime. — I note “ A. 1).” (page 500) advises the use of gas

lime on land in the occupation of allotment holders for the purpose of
preventing the Onion maggot injuring the crop. While admitting its
efficacy, I would caution those persons to use the lime very sparingly, as
•only last year I saw a garden where it had been used too freely during
the previous winter, and the crops of all kinds were in a most deplorable
condition, seeds of Onions, Carrots, and Beet failing to germinate. In
some cases at least three sowings were required, and transplanting from
other gardens was necessary to obtain a crop. In looking over the same
garden a week or two back, I remarked how well the crops looked. The
Potatoes were in marvellous health considering the extreme drought
experienced, the haulm was high, erect, and the foliage deep green.
Far better use the lime sparingly and often, rather than to dress
heavily. — E. M.

- Kingston Gardeners’ Association. — The usual monthly

meeting of this body was held at the Edenholme school-room on Tuesday
evening, on 27th ult. There was a large attendance. Mr. Cushon
occupied the chair. Some good examples of Thorpe’s Queen and
Sutton’s Matchless Marrow Peas, both very fine varieties, and some
sports from the former were exhibited by a member. Mr. Yeabsley,
gardener to Mrs. Bryant, Surbiton, read a very practical paper on the
Indian Azalea, from which much useful discussion arose, and a cordial
vote of thanks to the reader was accorded. Mr. Dean read a letter from
Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Beading, respecting the visit of the Gardeners’
Cricket Club to their firm next Wednesday, giving a cordial invitation
to members to see over their nursery trial grounds, also from Mr. Greig,
station agent S.W.R., announcing a large reduction of the ordinary fare
to and from Beading to members of the Association.

- Sussex Rainfall. — The total rainfall at Abbots Leigh, Hay¬
wards Heath, Sussex, for June was 2-44: inches, being 0'64 above the
average. The heaviest fall was 1’31 inch on the 19th. Rain fell on
nine days. The total fall for the six months was 9 inches, which is
3T7 inches below the average. The highest temperature in shade was
90° on the 19th, the minimum 37° on the 1st. Mean maximum, 69 22° ;
mean minimum, 48 26°; mean temperature, 58 74° — 1° above the average.
The drought in the above-mentioned district lasted for fifteen weeks.
During the four months (100 days) rain fell on only twenty-two days.
From March 2nd to June 19th only ITO inch rain fell, and with the
exception of a few days (from the 15th to the 20th May, when it was
dull and showery, with a thunderstorm), the sun was all the time
remarkably hot, and the wind hard and parching, and an almost entire
absence of dew at nights. Crops have suffered much ; watering seemed
to have little effect. Early Potatoes have so far matured that they will
have to be lifted as speedily as possible to prevent them growing again.
The intense heat of the middle of June ended in a severe thunderstorm,
during which 1'31 inch of rain fell in an hour, doing some damage ; it
was followed by a few dull days and more showers, that have done
much good. The first two days of July has been quite hot, and every
appearance of its continuing. — R. I.

BEGONIAS AT SWANLEY.

It is always a pleasure to visit the Home of Flowers, as Messrs.
H. Cannell & Sons’ nursery at Swanley is named. There are flowers
in abundance to be seen whenever one may go, and my visit was
chosen when I thought the Begonias, for which the Swanley firm is
justly celebrated, were at the zenith of their beauty, and amply was
1 repaid for my journey. Several large structures are devoted to
these beautiful plants. Begonias are, however, to be seen everywhere
— in the houses, and in the open air. Innumerable varieties are grown,
as many readers of the Journal who have seen them will know.

Apart from the named kinds there are many thousands of seedlings
which have not yet flowered, and from these it is anticipated many new
and excellent sorts will be selected. I will give a list of some of the

best that were in flower at the time of my visit, commencing with the
double varieties, amongst which Cannell’s Rosebud stands pre-eminent.
It combines all the good points essential in a first-rate Begonia. The
blooms are the shape of a good Camellia flower, but are larger, the
petals overlapping each other in precisely the same manner as is so
much admired in that popular flower ; the colour is a delicate pink of the
most pleasing shade of colour. There were many flowers showing blooms
of what would by many be considered perfect, so excellent were they,
but not like Rosebud. General Owen Williams is one of the most
floriferous, its large crimson blooms full of substance standing out
boldlyi above a dwarf compactly habited plant. A distinct and pleasing
flower is found in Thos. Whitelaw. The flowers are of a soft fawn
charmingly shaded buff, and have a very clearly defined edging of rosy
red. The various colours blend with the most perfect harmony, and
form a combination which cannot fail to please the most fastidious.
Miss Nora Hastings bears a flower somewhat after the same style, the
ground colour being soft fawn with the back of the petals rosy salmon,
with the blooms large and substantial. For a beautiful clear yellow
Miss Falconer would be difficult to equal. The habit of the plant is
fine, and the flowers, which are of good size, are borne in profusion.

Amongst the deep salmon shades Sir J. D. Hooker is perhaps one
of the finrst. The blooms are of great size and extraordinary sub¬
stance, and show above the foliage in an admirable manner. Lord
Llangattock, which received an award of merit at the Temple Show, is
one of the richest crimsons, with flowers of excellent shape and immense
size. For a Begonia suitable for culture in a basket I can conceive
nothing better than Miss E. Wynne, the flowers of which are pure
white, and droop in an exceedingly graceful and fascinating manner.
One of the prettiest is Mrs. Cornwallis West, the colour of which is
most uncommon, and can only be described as a soft yellow shaded with
apricot, the centre petals being of a delicate cream shade edged with
pink. Octavia is a beautiful variety with pure white flowers borne with
astonishing freedom. Though the blooms are small in comparison with
many others, this is a variety which should be included in every
collection. Madame la Baronne de St. Didier has a very large flowers
of a soft yellow colour, and is one of the most striking varieties in the
collection. Flamingo, as is implied by the name, is a brilliant scarlet
coloured variety. The flowers are plentiful, of good shape, and the
habit of the plant is perfect. CannelTs Gem is the freest flowering
variety in the whole collection, and will be most popular when it
becomes known. The habit is good, and the bright scarlet flowers very
erect. Throughout the collection it is noticeable what a preponderance
of varieties there are which carry their blooms perfectly erect instead
of hanging over, as was the case with almost all but a very short
while ago.

From amongst the singles it is even more difficult to make a selec¬
tion, the flowers on the m.ajority of the plants being large, substantial,
and of good shape. Mrs. John Thorpe was, however, one of the very
finest and most effective, the ground colour being white, and having an
edging of what can only be termed a reddish lake. The plant is most
floriferous and the habit excellent, the flowers standing boldly above
the healthy leafage. Miss Agnes Stewart is a variety with immense
flowers, colour being soft yellow clearly edged with pink. One of the
most prominent is Mrs. W. H. Forster, the brilliant red flowers of which
have a pure white centre. The massive shapely flowers of Colonel Kidd,
of a deep red shade, are very attractive ; as also is Mr. Packe, which
has soft rosy red flowers, flushed and shaded light rose. It is one of the
most distinct colours I have yet seen, either amongst Tuberous Begonias
or any other flowers. The orange-buff flowers of W. Marshall are
singularly beautiful. This is a colour which should be increased, as it
will most assuredly be most popular. One of the brightest flowers
is Earl Grosvenor, orange-scarlet, with blooms of great size and sub¬
stance. There were many other varieties equally well worthy of
mention, but time, the inexorable, would not allow me to take notes
of more, much as I should have liked to do so. — NOMAD.

THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY’S FOUR

DAYS’ SHOW.

The remarks of “A Fruit Grower and Exhibitor” anent this
subject, on page 480 of the Journal of Horticulture for June 15th, seem
to me to be both forcible and opportune. Judging from my experience
of exhibiting I am convinced that many would-be exhibitors will
be prevented competing at the Show in question if the produce
staged in the fruit classes has to remain four days before removal.
Many employers who grow fruit largely would strongly object to having
their finest specimens encased in the thick coating of dust which would
result from so lengthy a sojourn in a crowded room or tent ; and, more¬
over, such a practice is calculated to bring shows into disrepute, for
some of the finest dishes frequently look the reverse of inviting at the
end of a two-days show. This seems to be the opinion of some of the
leading judges at the metropolitan shows, who look with extreme dis¬
favour upon any produce exhibited which is not perfectly fresh, and I
have frequently seen them leave unplaced dishes of fruit only
because they had been staged at another show a day or two previously,
although they were superior in other points to the winning dishes.
Granting this is the right course to pursue, does it not conclusively
prove that a four-days show is a step in the wrong direction ?

Another point to 'be considered is the expense attending so long an
absence from home. In the case of those at a considerable distance from

10

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 8, 1893,

London all who compete cannot win, and many will prefer not to measure
their strength with the veteran showmen, if the result of failing to
win a coveted prize is also to bring them considerable loss financially.
For these, as well as the weighty reasons pointed out by “ A Fruit
Grower and Exhibitor,” I trust the Council of the Royal Horticultural
Society will see their way to give some relief to would-be exhibitors. —
A Midland Counties Fruit Grower.

FLOWERS AT THE ROYAL WEDDING.

Twice within a few months the walls of historic Fleet Street have
resounded with the cheers of the multitude over a spectacle in which
the products of the garden play an important part. In November last
the pageantry of the Mayoral procession through the main thoroughfares
of the ancient city was varied for the first time in history by a trophy of
British fruit which aroused the enthusiastic plaudits of the lookers-on^
and to-day there is a deeper swell in the myriad voices which cheer on
the bride and bridegroom of an hour as they pass with the music of a
thousand joy-bells and the perfume of a million flowers beneath the
windows of the Journal of Horticulture, It is not the function of an
organ which for nearly half a century has been devoted to furthering
the interests of horticulture to dwell on the general features of an occa¬
sion such as this, moving and tremendous though they may be ; but it
is within its province to refer with pride and rejoicing to the floral
aspects of a ceremony which has evidently stirred the heart of the nation
deeply, and called forth a demonstration almost pathetic in its intense
and spontaneous delight. Grim, repellent London, mighty assemblage
of gloomy streets, to-day blossoms like the Rose. It has garlanded
itself with flowers to do honour to the event which unites the heir to
the throne of Britain with one of the most gracious and beloved of her
daughters, and they could have but a shallow love for horticulture who
would fail to derive satisfaction in observing how largely its resources
have been drawn upon for an occasion of such national and historic
interest.

Considering how universal the custom of associating flowers with
every function which it is desired to invest with beauty and refinement
has become, it is not surprising that on an occasion of such supreme
importance they should play a prominent part. The Society hostess
who spends hundreds of pounds in order that her guests may listen to
the most gifted artistes of the opera does not hesitate also to provide
them with other pleasures in the form of costly floral decorations, for
without them her rooms would be cheerless ; nor is expense spared to
procure all that is rarest and most lovely in flowers at balls and other
social assemblies. And these are but events of the hour, exciting no
comment outside the Society journals. In the wedding of H.R.H. the
Duke of York and Her Serene Highness the Princess Victoria May of
Teck we have an event which is talked of in Birmingham as well as in
Belgravia, in Manchester as well as in Mayfair, and which excites the
same interest in the village cottage as in the town mansion. Strange
therefore would it be if in bowing to the wishes of the nation for a
ceremony in which it could openly testify its gratification and pleasure
the treasures of the garden had been overlooked.

Few, perhaps, of the thousands to whom the floral appurtenances of the
Royal nuptials have proved an object of interest were able to form any
impression of their value or of the magnitude of the task of preparing
them, contenting themselves with a casual admiration. But those to
whom flowers represent something more than the value of a glance not
unnaturally seek to get at least an approximate impression of the
principal material, and the extent and manner of its utilisation. A call
on Mr. Thomas at Windsor, and an inspection of his labours at St.
Janies s Palace and in the Chapel Royal, together with a visit to Mr.
Wills at South Kensington, have demonstrated on how magnificent a
scale those gifted horticulturists have carried out the duties allotted to
them. Her Majesty’s gardener has had to fulfil the task of embellishing
the Palace and Chapel referred to with plants and flowers, and the work
nae been carried out with an ability and completeness which could
hardly have been excelled. Oar representative called in the height of
the preparations. Every group, whether large or small, every window
arrangement, and every floral device, such as pillar wreathing, that
displayed at St. James’s, had the various plants
allotted and placed together at Frog more in the approximate order of
their later arrangement, so that when conveyed to their destination the
dress rehearsal could be followed by a rapid, smooth, and effective
manipulation of the material. The resources of the Royal gardens had
been drawn upon to the extent of four huge vanloads of plants, and
it 18 a sufficient evidence of the richness with which they are stored to
say that there still remained plants enough to have repeated the
decorations.

St. James’s Palace and the Chapel Royal in the early morning of and
throughout Wednesday presented a most animated appearance. To the
on-looker ignorant of the systematic manner in which the work was being
carried out, there appeared to be bewildering masses of lofty Palms, huge
Crotons, graceful Ferns, and brilliant flowering plants ; but with astonish¬

ing deftness and rapidity they were arranged in beautiful banks and
groups, until when completed staircases, landings, windows, and columns
were garnished with beautiful floral adornments. Passing through the
state rooms the wedding assembly traversed the armour room, the
windows of which were filled with plants. On the right as they
descended the stairs was a magnificent group, and at every turn fresh
banks of foliage and flowering plants were disposed. The pillars of the
colonnade were wreathed with Roses and Ivy, the flowers being twined
round the columns, and festoons of Roses and Ivy sprays stretching
from the pillars, together with baskets of Roses, were suspended above
the heads of the bridal party. A beautiful glade of Ferns dotted with
flowering plants flanked another flight of stairs, at the top of which an
admirable effect had been secured by placing a tall Palm at each side of
a lofty picture. Near the entrance to the chapel was the retiring room of
H.M. the Queen, who entered the Palace at this point. The surroundings
were beautifully decorated, and a magnificent bouquet awaited the
arrival of the Sovereign.

The most beautiful feature of the Chapel Royal was the great
window, the stone facings of which, 18 feet high and 1 foot 10 inches
broad, were completely draped in pink and white Roses. At each side
was a tall Bamboo, arching over. The large recess at the base of the
window was filled with cut flowers and tall glasses appropriately
furnished, the whole forming a picture of wonderful beauty. On the
wall under the window, and just above the altar table, was a floral
emblem in Gothic lines, executed in white York Roses on a groundwork
of green moss. The altar table was beautifully furnished with bouquets
and glasses of flowers.

It would be bewildering to attempt a description of every method
that had been adopted to beautify the palace and chapel, or to enumerate
all the plants and flowers utilised. The complete composition of all the
groups would fill a page, and consequently only a brief reference need
be made to the material employed. One very fine group was composed
of some splendid Palms, Latania borbonica being conspicuous amongst
them ; noble Crotons, such as pictum, 8 feet high, nobilis, Disraeli, and
Weismanni, Aralia Sieboldi variegata, grand plants of Anthurium
Andreanum, Clethra arborea. Coleuses and Grevilleas, lightened with
Hydrangea paniculata grandiflora, Liliums, the lovely “ Bridal Wreath”
(Francoa ramosa), and many other flowering plants. At the front a
moat unique effect had been secured by associating the very rare and
lovely White Water Bean, Nelumbium speciosum nuciferum, with a
groundwork of Cyperus and various aquatics, A charming group had
been put together attheside of the grand staircase in St. James’s Palace
of various Crotons, Palms, Ferns, and Araucaria excelsa, with such
popular flowering plants as Marguerites, Tydaeas, Achimenes, Hydran¬
geas, Ericas, and Gloxinias. The windows were filled with Fuchsias,
Marguerites, Pelargoniums, Hydrangeas, and other flowering plants
associated with Caladiums and Ferns. Amongst the Palms utilised in
the different groups were some splendid Arecas, Kentias 15 to 20 feet
high, and Cocos plumosus, quite 20 feet. Grand plants of Anthurium
crystallinum and A. Warocqueana, also of Alocasia Thibautiana, were
noticeable, while a beautiful basket of Orchids was greatly admired.

The cut flower decorations were a vast work in themselves. There
was 476 feet of wreathing on the colonnade, this being composed,
like the baskets, of white and red Roses. There was also 20 feet of
wreathing in Roses on the altar, and Her Majesty’s retiring room
was decorated with Tea Roses and Gladiolus The Bride. Altogether
upwards of 5000 Roses were utilised, with large quantities of white
Gladioli, Stephanotis, Tuberoses, and Carnations.

The bouquets and floral decorations, made and carried out by Messrs.
Wills & Segar, were quite worthy of the reputation of the firm.
Fourteen Royal Princesses carried beautiful bouquets. That of the
bride was an exquisite shower bouquet, in which the “ old Provence Rose
Duke of York?” was the flower most largely employed, and it was asso¬
ciated with Carnation The Bride, Odontoglossums, Cattleyas, Orange
Blossom, and Lily of the Valley, interspersed with Myrtle, Fern, and
other leafage. This and the ten bridesmaids’ bouquets, which were com¬
posed of similar flowers shaded with Cattleya Mendeli, were exquisite
examples of taste and skill. York Roses, white Carnations, and many
choice Orchids were noticeable in the beautiful bouquets carried by
H.R.H. the Princess of Wales and her daughters. Gardenias were the
buttonhole flowers of the Prince of Wales and the Duke of York.

The floral decorations at Buckingham Palace were most extensive
and beautiful, the experience of over twenty years there and at Marl¬
borough House having well qualified Mr. Wills for producing something
worthy of so auspicious an occasion. Large quantities of the most
choice and beautiful plants and flowers were employed with a taste and
judgment which rendered the mansion of the Sovereign a floral fairy¬
land. The superb gold plate displayed at the Royal banquet and the
Royal wedding breakfast was interspersed with choice Palms and other
exotics by the South Kensington firm, while the setting apart of the
spacious ballrsom for a public Ijreakfast room gave them another oppor¬
tunity of showing their exceptional skill.

A word may be devoted in conclusion to the efforts of private
residents and the proprietors of business establishments in the City and
West End. Thousands of balconies and windows were adorned with
flowering plants and Ferns, transforming sombre streets into pleasant
promenades. For those not gaining admission to the Royal Palaces or
Chapel, these public decorations proved most pleasing and attractive
It would add to the pleasure of those whose special love for and work
amongst flowers adds a powerful significance to what has been
observed on this occasion if it could be thought that they would have

July 6, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

11

permanent influences for good. The old City has come out of itself, but
reaction is inevitable, and it may be hoped that it will not be a complete
return to the status quo. Flower-furnished windows are still the excep¬
tion in our huge towns, and a great work must be accomplished before
the masses are educated up to the sense of beauty and refinement which
finds expression in bright and fragrant blossoms. They bring refresh¬
ment to the heart and contentment to the mind, giving new pleasures to
those who, if past the first “ lexicon of youth,” are not so in the sense
of being on the threshold of gardening life, but have the bright rubicon
of manhood before them, opening up fresh fields of thought and
happiness, even though the sands of their material existence be running
down.

Something, too, may be hoped for from the love that those who have
to-day, with every token of a nation’s affection and esteem, entered upon
a new and momentous epoch in their lives, are known to bear for
flowers. At Sandringham, where the Royal honeymoon is to be spent,
few of the flowers so admirably cultivated by Mr, McKellar are more
extensively grown than Tea Roses, and for these chaste and delicious
blossoms the bridegroom is reputed to have a special regard. But both
he and his Consort, possessing in a rare degree the attributes to which

leaves below are simply blotched (a), and one leaf (J) is perfectly clean.
The attack looks like frost-bite, or blackening by an overdose of an
insecticide or fungicide. If one of the young leaves be examined on
the under side a number of small dots will be seen. These app)ear
concave and whitish, but they are really convex and yellow, with a
minute black central spot or spots. The dots are just visible to the
unaided eye, as shown at B — a small leaf, natural size, blackened and
destroyed. There is nothing whatever on the upper surface of the leaf
but dead hairs as outgrowths. Taking a still smaller leaf, and examining
it by an ordinary pocket lens, 1 find the yellow pustules spread over
the whole of the under side, and they still appear concave, not unlike
the “ cups ” of an Jilcidium, the whole tissue of the leaf (C) being
destroyed down to the point c, that part being black ; but below c the
footstalk is perfectly healthy. One noticeable feature is, the dots or
spots are not present on the footstalk nor on the midribs and veins of
the leaf. This is a remarkable characteristic of mites — they never, or
very rarely, produce galls from those parts. By mites, I mean those of
the sub-family Phytoptidae (four-legged Phytoptus),

If a minute portion of an undeveloped leaf be examined by a lens,
we find the pustules are a beautiful transparent yellow colour, and

Fig. 2.— black currant SHOOTS DISEASED.

flowers specially appeal, are broad and catholic in their tastes, and the
freedom with which they may be trusted to utilise flowers can hardly
fail to popularise the garden and widen its influences for good. A great
step will have been gained if the ever-widening eddies thus set in
motion carry the germs of flower-love into new waters, bringing bright¬
ness and delight to those for whom at present the Roses bloom not.

BLACK CURRANT SHOOTS DISEASED.

A DISEASE has appeared in recent years on the tips of the shoots of
Vines, Figs, Tomatoes, and other plants grown under glass. It first
contracts the" margin of the leaves and causes them to enrol or enclose
(in Vines it is the reverse — i.e., invert), and the affected growth becomes
of a dirty dark brown or black, the leaves dying. The disease in Figs,
Vines, and Tomatoes is certainly contagious, but there is no trace
whatever of fungal attack, and though the appearance is that of red
spider attacks with the leaf tissues blackened, there is no evidence of
animal parasites. I am persuaded, however, that it is due to mites,
which have the property of producing chemical changes, and that
always takes the primordial colour of the host, as seen in the young
growth before chlorophyll is formed.

But we are now concerned with the blackened condition of Black
Currant shoots submitted by Mr. F. Q, Lane. The tips of the shoots are
hardened in tissue, dirty brown or black, as shown at A, while the

instead of being concave they are convex, and not unlike the fruits of
Nectria ditissima (the Apple and Pear canker fungus) in form, or an Oak
blister-gall, with a conspicuous black centre, composed of one or more
irregular dots. Transparent yellow pustules may be discerned, and springing
from the surface of the leaf (under side) between the blisters are some
transparent white hairs. These are Erineum, and no creature can
produce them but mites, nor any chemical known to science. Subjecting
a still minuter portion of a young infested leaf to a higher power of
the microscope we get to see that the blisters have been raised from
the cells of the leaf and immediately around the black central dot or
dots, which are raised with the blisters. Three are shown in D, at d,
and the hairs, e, are seen to be forked, and that division is produced
by budding, as represented by the little knobs along them, here and
there.

Now that before mentioned is all there is to see on the leaves and
shoots. The black spots or dots in the centre of the transparent yellow
blister are the oxidised excreta of the mite, and the blister is caused by
the chemical ferment set up in the plant tissues or cells by the liquid
portion or poison absorbed, and corresponds to those raised by ants on
the human skin. The abnormal growth of the hairs is due to endeavour
on the part of the plant to throw off the poison, and this only provides
pasturage for the mites, for they browse on those, and when they defo¬
liate the crop of Erineum the mites must do or die. I am aware that
the mites are said to “ stray about upon the leaves and the shoots, and
make their peculiar gold-coloured galls [which are shown in D] upon the

12

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 6, 1893.

young and tender twigs [we have seen with a certain result — death to
the parts] as well as upon the sheathing scales or embryonic leaves of
the buds, it is believed that they live upon these, if not upon the leaves
also until the buds are again formed.” This is partly true, for they
cannot and do not live on the leaves and young shoots, nor are the
yellow pustules in any sense galls, but mere blisters, poisoning and killing
the young leaves and young wood.

The Hazel-bud gall mite has already (May 30th) possession of the
newly formed buds of the Hazel, the leaves corresponding to the buds
having a large purple blotch in the centre of the leaf, and the Brineum
is being produced abundantly by the scales, but there is not a mite to be
seen (except in the buds galled), nor are the central or embryonic
blossom or wood buds yet touched, but soon will be when the mites
emerge, for their “ buds ” penetrate the leaf buds at the base of the
scales, and they, dropping their poison on the growing parts, produce
the gall, and Brineum hairs spring forth bounteously inside, upon which
they live and pass the winter in safety, feasting and fattening, and
reproducing on what would otherwise be the young shoots, and leaves,
and nuts of the succeeding year. It is the same with the Currant-bud
gall mite. The question. Where are the mites now ? I am unable to
find any on the shoots and leaves sent by Mr. Lane. I have shown
what they have done, and it is questionable if they can or do enter the
embryonic buds in any form than that completing the cycle of their
existence. — G. Abbey.

NOTES ON TOMATOES.

Tomato Sutton’s Dessert.

This appears to be an excellent variety where large fruit are not
favoured. In a Peach house at Kooksbury Park many plants of it are
now growing, they all have set a wonderful crop of fruit. This is borne
in long racemes, ranging from 1 foot to 2 feet long, and carrying as
many as nineteen fruit on one raceme. The fruit is about the size of
a large walnut, quite smooth in the skin, bright red in colour, and
of excellent flavour, just the right kind to eat in a raw state. — B. M.

Tomato Disease.

The new disease to which Tomatoes are subject, so ably described by
Mr. Abbey (page 471, June 15th), made its appearance at Ivy Lodge,
Bridge of Allan, four years ago, the flrst year the late Mr. M'Tavish
grew Tomatoes there. The water used is a natural supply, which enters
the garden at the highest point from the grounds above, and is collected
into a tank from which it is led by pipes to wherever wanted. Whether
it is contaminated with sewage or any other deleterious matter from
the houses on the higher ground I cannot say ; but there is a contamina¬
tion somewhere, for the tank, cisterns in the houses, and a pond are
continually covered with a green confervoid. Once, when talking with
Mr. M‘Tavish about the sudden collapse of his plants, he said Mr.
Thomson of Clovenfords,, who was calling a few days previous,
attributed it to the attack of wireworm. As I could not observe any
of the usual signs of a wireworm attack I misdoubted the statement
without any farther evidence than the sudden dying of the plants ;
therefore several of them were examined, but neither wireworm nor
any appearance of their work could be found.

“ J. F. D.,” at page 505, says, “ Seeds should be purchased from one
of the best houses in the trade.” Bven although we do so it does not
always turn out as we wish. I enclose several seeds which are discoloured.
Is it the nidus of some species of disease ? Fully a third of the seed
from a healthy fruit had the same discolouration as those sent. If it is
the seat of a form of disease it will account greatly for the spread of
such diseases. Would any of your readers who may have grown “ Sharpe’s
First Little Beauty ” give their opinion of it ? — G. M‘Douga"ll,
Stirling.

[We have examined the seeds and fail to find any spores of bacterium
attached to them. The seeds, however, are not only discoloured, but
very weak, and not likely to produce sturdy, healthy seedlings. Seed
should be saved from the finest and best ripened fruit, selecting the
largest and most plump clean seeds, rejecting those which are small
discoloured, and manifestly not well developed.]

Tomatoes at West Hill House.

The description of successful Tomato growing is of interest to all
those — and they are many — who, either commercially or for family use,
are trying to make their crops as good as they can with whatever means
they may have at command. A very successful system of culture is
pursued by Mr. Hawtin, gardener to Mr. Samuel Herrick Sands, late
Mayor of Nottingham, at West Hill House, on the Lenton side of the
borough. He devotes one of his houses, through the summer season,
entirely to Tomatoes. It is some 30 feet long, by 18 or 20 feet wide ;
span-roofed, and curvilinear, thus having plenty of light. In the centre,
on the stone bench which covers a water cistern, he has them growing
in 13 or 14-inch pots, well drained, but standing in pans to retain the
waterings, and keep the plants always cool and moist at their roots. On
the side benches he puts boxes made the whole length and width, 2 feet
wide and 6 inches deep, holding say 4J or 5 inches of soil. In these
boxes the plants are placed in a double row on the outer and inner sides ;
they stand about 18 inches apart, and grow straight up, fastened to
stakes until they reach the wires of the roof, to which they are afterwards
tied.

From this it will be seen that the plants are rather close together,
but being grown on the single-stem principle, and daily attended to, there

is no crowding. In all there are about eighty plants in the house, and
Mr. Hawtin told me that since he commenced cutting he had cut some
150 lbs. of fruit, and when we saw them, June 26th, there would be
about 50 lbs. of fruit quite ready. The majority of his plants area
sort selected by him, a few years ago, from a very fruitful plant
out of a packet of seed of Hopper’s Goliath, though, in most years, he
adds a few plants of the other varieties which are said to be excellent
by other growers. He has tried all the forms of Perfection, Conference,
and others ; but as he does not grow for show but for use, he finds none
to fill his basket like his variety of Hepper’s Goliath, Hopper’s, though
a corrugated fruit, and much like Sutton’s Barliest of all in habit, fruit,
and prolificacy, grows with him to an excellent size, and a very high
colour. He is trying Sutton’s Maincrop this year, and in some things
it suits him, but does not give him such satisfactory results as his own
variety does. The compost used is a mixture of half and half turf and
decayed cow manure. This is found to hold out the longest, besides
giving firmness and short-jointed growth to the plants. The plants are
top-dressed every now and then through their fruiting stage with guano,
and are occasionally watered with liquor from the garden tank, into which
all the house sewage goes.

Mr. Hawtin uses the syringe very slightly, if at all, he believing
that trying to grow Tomatoes on the lines of Cucumbers has been the
cause very largely with those who do so of the dreaded Tomato disease.
With him he has never had the least sign of it, and he attributes it
partly to his non-use of the syringe, a soil not too rich nor in too great
quantity, and good feeding by top-dressings of soil and guano, and
occasional rich waterings, and his light and airy house. We agree with
him, and his results show that he is right. There may be a point or two
in these notes which will be of advantage to some Tomato grower or
other, and every little helps. — P. H, N.

ABOUT HULL. — III.

Welton House.

Two friends from the north took a pair of northern appetites with
them into a southern restaurant some time ago, and one whispered to
the other to “ give him a bit of broad Yorkshire ” as the waiter
approached to solicit their orders. No. 2, not being too hungry to
appreciate a joke, complied, and the confusion of the waiter was as
complete as though he had been asked to bring Solanum tuberosum
or Brassica oleracea. No. 2, when on his native heath, is Mr. Charles
Lawton, head gardener to Colonel Harrison Broadley, Welton House,
near Brough, but he spared me a Yorkshire accent in the hearty York¬
shire welcome extended to me when I made my call. But there is
breadth about Mr. Lawton apart from the speech in which it sometimes
pleases him to indulge. He is broad in person to begin with, and
broader still in mind, one of those gardeners who combine practical
knowledge with scientific culture, keen intelligence, and a sturdy
independence of thought.

Welton House stands in beautiful grounds close to the far-famed
Welton Dale, which is a part of the vast estate, and to which troop
numbers of excursionists from Hull, for Colonel Broadley throws it open
to them, and thousands are glad to avail themselves of the privilege.
Bills are frequently on view in Hull town inviting would-be visitors to
part with eighteen pence, and in return to be transported per waggonette
to and from Welton. The vehicles are not, to speak frankly, models of
luxury, but they are comfortable, so that anyone who feels inclined to go
by road has a fair opportunity of gratifying his desires. If the rail is chosen
I am doubtful whether Ferriby or Brough is the nearer station. Being
independent of both waggonette and train it was not a special poin
with me, but it would be a pleasant and not very long walk from either.
Welton village and the surrounding country has an interest for lovers of
the “ good old times ” in its connection with the exploits of Dick Turpin,
Scarborough, Snowden Dunning (or Dunhill), and other notorious
persons. Mr. Lawton pointed out an old hostelry there in which the
lamented Eichard was incarcerated pending his transmission to York
under other conditions than prevailed on his famous ride. I was
fortunate in seeing Welton under the favourable conditions of glorious
summer weather, and the fine views from the head of the Dale were at
their best.

The gardens and grounds around the mansion possess the immense
advantage of abundant leafage. Beeches and Blms flourish wonder¬
fully well, particularly the Copper . Beeches, which excel their
brethren in vigour and luxuriance, and make a fine feature. One
tree near the house has attained to enormous dimensions, and the
branches, having spread across the drive, have been raised on a frame¬
work of stout poles, forming a natural arch of great beauty. An
extraordinary instance of vitality in a tree is afforded by an enormous
Sycamore, the branches having a spread 33 yards in diameter. At a
height of about 5 feet the trunk split in a heavy wind, and one portion
was dragged to the ground. It was resolved to raise it and bolt the two
together. Failure was the universal prognostication, being voted as
certain as that a ship must come to grief if an attempt were made to
drive it by steam ; but the ship went and the tree grew. A bolt was
driven right through the pith, and a large plate was affixed. The plate
is now covered with bark, the wounded parts healed, and the tree is in
perfect health.

There is a great deal to interest old timers in the houses at Welton
for hardwooded plants are well represented there. Some are “ speci¬
mens ” of quite an aldermanic corpulence. For instance, there is

July 6, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

18

huge plant of Polygala grandis 4 to 5 feet through, and without exagge¬
ration a very beautiful object ; also a grand example of Statice profusa
5 feet across. Ericas are well represented by ventricosa globosa 4 feet
in diameter, and Lindleyana, which is about half the size, and has been
in bloom three months. Franciscea Lindeni, with its beautiful purplish
mauve flowers, which are borne later than those of the other species,
measures about 3 feet across, and being covered with flowers is some¬
thing to admire. There are some bulky old Azaleas, such as Magnificent
(about 6 feet across), Due de Nassau, and Iveryana, not pyramids, but
broad, evenly furnished specimens full of bloom. Boronia elatior is an
object calculated to surprise the southron, who is not used to calculating
the size of members of this genus in feet. Other noteworthy plants are
Streptosolon Jamesoni wound round stakes in a large pot and freely
bloomed ; Cassia corymbosa, 4 to 5 feet across ; Dasylirion gracile
glaucescens and D. acrotrichum ; magnificent specimens of Gleichenia
Mendeli and G. speluncm, the former about 8 feet through, the latter a
couple of feet less ; Lapageria alba on a balloon-shaped trellis 4 feet in
diameter, which has been clothed in flowers ; Euterpe edule, Stevensonia
grandiflora, Dion edule, Ixora Williamsi, I. Duffi, and Kondeletia
speciosa. Eucharis amazonica is in splendid health. One large piece
has not been repotted for eighteen years, and is rarely without flowers,
blooming seven and eight times in a season. It is supported with liquid
manure and soot water, and proves its vigour by bearing seven flowers
on a spike.

The conservatory, which is about 60 feet long by 45 feet wide and
30 high, contains an assortment of material such as is not often met
with. Some of its occupants are familiar enough, but others are less
so. Amongsc the former may be mentioned the Camellias, which are a
wonderful feature ; the Abutilons, which go right up to the roof ; Cantua
dependens, which has been full of bloom since January and is a lovely
sight now ; Fortune’s Yellow Rose, which has been planted forty-seven
years and covers one end and part of the roof, bearing thousands of
flowers ; Lardizabala biternata, and a number of fine Palms and Tree
Ferns. Draco Banks! erythrochysis is more of a stranger, at least to
me, and there is plenty of it to study, for it is 30 feet high, and two other
stately exotics on which I gazed for the first time were Dacrydium
cupressinum and Alectryon excelsum. Feeling rather dubious about
being able to give a description of them in the short space at command
I take refuge in the useful generalisms that both are “ handsome and
effective,” while the latter is found “ useful for cutting.” I think
that if the names of the plants sound strange these phrases will make
up for it. There are many other odds and ends of a more or less attrac¬
tive character, and one is tempted to think that Colonel Harrison Broadley
has either roved afar or had many wandering friends, so strangely is
his conservatory stored. It is likely enough that it would not entirely
satisfy the present generation, but it is interesting, and beautiful
withal.

Peaches and Nectarines do wonderfully well at Welton. They are
not far from the limestone, and appreciate it more than the wanderer
whose way takes him over many a white and dusty highway, where
Peaches grow not. We have had thirsty weather of late. The Lawtonian
trees include specimens of the past as well as present generations, not
dating quite back to the days of Turpin perhaps, but still venerable.
There is a Grosse Mignonne of impressive rotundity, reputed to be fifty
years old, which has not missed a crop, the present gardener told me,
for twenty-four years, and has yielded as many as twenty dozen Peaches
as one season’s quota. In its younger days 10 and ll-oz. fruits were
not uncommon ; it does not reach that figure now, but bears crops quite
good enough to insure its retention, and he would be callous indeed who
could condemn such a faithful old slave without a sigh. Trees four
years planted promise to follow the parental example, so vigorous, so
healthy, and so fruitful are they. The Vines are equally satisfactory,
and afford ample evidence that although Mr. Lawton has earned special
repute as a plantsman, he is equally at home in other departments of
the garden.

Conifers at West Ella.

A hint from the Welton gardener took me to West Ella, the residence
of C. P. Sykes, Esq., where, he told me, there were some particularly
fine Conifers. The place adjoins the village of Kirk Ella, which is one
of the most beautiful it has been my pleasure to discover about Hull.
There is quite a family party of Ellas in the neighbourhood, all having
derived their name from a worthy savage of the pre-Normanic era.
Doubtless he had a soul above Conifers and such like effeminate delights
of an effete generation.

The gardener at West Ella, Mr. Sturdy, is an old junior of Mr,
Lawton’s. He was making his way down the village when I arrived on
the scene, but executing a strategic movement I captured him near the
village pump, which, by the way, is an elaborate and ingenious institu¬
tion that would have astonished the primitive understanding of the
ancient Saxon. West Ella is a very beautiful old house flanked by
irregular sweeps of lawn, on one portion of which is a small lake dotted
with Water Lilies, edged with yellow Irises, and looked down upon by
heavy masses of Rhododendrons. The walls of the building are clothed
in Roses and Honeysuckle, so that it presents a most pleasing aspect.
There is plenty of good timber in the vicinity, and the Conifers, although
not numerous, comprise some noteworthy specimens. Picea nobilis is
represented by a fine tree about 50 feet high, and which has borne some
splendid cones, and there is a P. Smithiana of equal proportions. An
otherwise grand tree of Cedrus atlantica glauca, 40 feet high, has been
broken about by the snow, and its beauty unfortunately marred. The
best specimen of Wellingtonia gigantea is a noble example, and there are

also some fine Cedars, notably a Deodar, 50 feet high, and a spreading
“ Lebanon ” with an altitude of about 60 feet. The Araucarias are also
remarkably fine. Less imposing, but quite as perfect in its way, is the
4 feet specimen of Abies Parryana glauca, a very beautiful little lawn
tree.

Space only permits of the briefest possible reference to West Ella, and
I can only add that throughout the establishment there is ample proof
of Mr. Sturdy’s capacity to do justice to a place that in itself and its
surroundings can claim a special charm and attractiveness. — W. P. W.

OXYLOBIUM CALLISTACHYS.

This ornamental shrubby plant does not appear to be so generally
well known as it might be, or it would be more extensively cultivated.
Either as small plants for the side stages of the conservatory or as

PIG. 3.— OXYLOBIUM CALLISTACHYS.

plants 4 feet high in large pots it would be found very useful. Like
most of the Australian plants Oxylobiums require only ordinary green¬
house treatment, but to make them flower freely allow them enough
sun to thoroughly ripen their shoots. They will be found to thrive
best in a compost of fibry loam and peat of about equal parts, with
plenty of silver sand added. Oxylobium callistachys, shown in fig. 3,
has bright yellow pea-shaped flowers produced in dense clusters, and is
very showy, as are also many of the other species. The genus is a large
one, but many of the species are not known in English gardens.

WASPS’ NESTS AND CYANIDE OF POTASSIUM.'

I NOTICE some remarks (page 518) re cyanide of potassium and the
destruction of wasps’ nests. Mr. Molyneux has had far better results
from its use than I have had. I have used cyanide of potassium now
for eleven seasons, and my experience of it is that it only kills the ingoing
wasps. Where the nest is close to the entrance, which very often
happens, it kills a portion only of those inside, whilst the rest are merely

14

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 6, 1893.

teld prisoners until the fumes of the cyanide have evaporated, when the
wasps pass in and out as usual. I find also that it has not the slightest
injurious effect on the larvm or young wasps, which alone will soon
form a very strong nest ; but if a piece of turf be placed over the hole
and pressed tightly in, it often prevents their escape.

I have used cyanide of potassium in different forms — in the solid about
the size of a small walnut, placed at the entrance to the nest ; in its
powder form as recommended by Mr. Molyneux, also dissolved in warm
water, pouring it into the mouth of the nest. All these different
methods of using it have produced precisely the same results, via., that
of killing all wasps passing over it almost instantly, and preventing
those inside from escaping till its fumes have evaporated, which takes
several days. In the meantime it has no effect whatever upon the
larvse.

With due respect to Mr. Molyneux’s suggestion, I should like to hear
the experience of others on the effects of cyanide of potassium in the
d'estruction of wasps’ nests. — B. Beoady, Hooton Grange Gardens.

ROSE SHOWS.

NATIONAL ROSE SOCIETY.

Geeat (Show at the Ceystal Palace, July 1st.

Hose exhibiting as regulated by the fickleness of our English
climate is a game of see-saw, the northern and southern exhibitors
occupying each end of the plank, and rising gracefully up or coming
heavily down according as the presiding genius throws its weight on
the one balance or the other. The game is exciting to the participants,
and diverting to lookers-on, the more so if among the fallen champions
one is descried who had expressed roseate hues about his prospects long
before the season commenced, only to have them dashed by some pecu¬
liarity of the weather later on. For three years past the southern
growers have had the best of the play so far as the first “National” is
concerned, for we have to go back to 1889 to find the great trade trophy
out of Essex ; but once more climatic conditions have given the
northerners the advantage, and their southern rivals have been signally
worsted.

A glance back over the records of the six years 1888-93, shows that
on three occasions victory has rested with the young and energetic
exhibitor, Mr. Frank Cant of Braiswick, Colchester, his successes being
achieved in 1888, 1890, and 1892, which goes to show that he lays
himself out for biennial victories. In 1891 Mr. B. R. Cant was
triumphant, and in 1889, as this year, the coveted prize fell to Messrs.
Harkness of Bedale. Rose growers in the South will well remember
the character of the season in which the first success of the York¬
shire nurserymen was achieved. We had such a long spell of hot,
dry weather, that southern Roses were hurried on with alarming rapidity,
and when show time came they were distinctly past their best. Then
came a trio of late seasons, in two of which Messrs. Harkness were
unable to stage at all, and consequently the Essex growers came up
smiling. But if the season of 1889 was early owing to the hot and dry
weather, what are we to say of 1893 ? It has out-Heroded Herod, and
everybody put it down as a foregone conclusion that the trophy must
once more, like Hatteras, face the North. The Cants must have felt
themselves beaten before a bloom was staged, but they bravely did their
best, and may console themselves with the reflection that they showed
much better than the majority of people expected.

With respect to the amateurs’ trophy it is a different story. Sub¬
limely indifferent to the character of the seasons Mr. Lindsell comes and
conquers. He despises the climatic seesaw, and sails ever upwards.
If it is a late season he wins ; if it is an early one he “ gets
there ” just the same. With a sequence of four consecutive
victories to point to, success for him appears to have become an
institution. His chief opponent of last year. Dr. Budd, did not
compete in the leading class, and throughout the Show there were
«ome notable absentees. Where, for instance, was Mr. Prince, with
those wonderful Teas of his, and where Mr. Burnside ? The latter was
in evidence in the flesh, but in many classes where he is wont to show
prominently he was not represented. Of the amateurs who exhibited
more conspicuously than they have hitherto done may be mentioned
Mr. Machin, Mr. Drew, Mr. Orpen, and Mr. Foster Melliar.

And what of the Show as a whole ? Truth compels the admission
that it was the worst for several years past, a large number of the
flowers being not only undersized, but coarse and soiled ; still there
were some brilliant exceptions, and the general opinion appeared to be
that if below the average it was still a great deal better than might
have been expected. The number of blooms appeared to be far less
than at any preceding show of late years. A correspondent says there
were 2000 fewer than in 1892.

Nueseeymen’s Class.

As is well known the principal class in this section is for seventy-two
distinct varieties, single trusses, and which usually brings forth a keen
competition. As we have remarked, the fight between the northern and
southern growers for the premier position, with which goes the challenge
trophy, was not, however, quite so close as usual. Messrs. Harkness and
Sons, Bedale, were declared the winners without much difficulty for a
collection of fine blooms. The varieties were staged as follows : — First
box, back row : Ulrich Brunner, Duchesse de Morny, Charles Lefebvre
(fine), Suzanne Marie Rodocanachi, Duke of Fife, Gustave Piganeau,
(good). Middle row : Madame Caroline Kuster Barthelemy Joubert,

Madame Bravy, Due de Montpensier (fine), Cleopatra, Dr. Andry
(splendid). Front row: Augusta Rigotard, Comtesse de Serenye, Comte
de Raimbaud (good). Souvenir de Paul Neyron, Sir Rowland Hill, and
Innocente Pirola. Second box, back row : Exposition de Brie, Lady
Mary Fitzwilliam, General Jacqueminot, Marquise de Castellane, Victor
Hugo, Mrs. John Laing. Middle row : Margaret Dickson, A. K. Williams
(grand), Princess Beatrice, Fisher Holmes, Boule d’Or, Horace Vernet
(magnificent ; the silver medal H.P. in this section). Front row :
Madame C. Crapelet, Marguerite Boudet, Reynolds Hole, Btoile de Lyon,
Harrison Weir, Madame B. Verdier. Third box, back row : Dupuy
Jamain (fine), Madame G. Luizet, Gloire de Margottin, Ernest Metz
(grand), Louis Van Houtte, Merveille de Lyon. Middle row : Marie
Verdier, Charles Darwin (grand), Comtesse de Nadaillac, Earl of
Dufferin (splendid), Catherine Mermet, Madame V, Verdier (grand).
Front row : Beauty of Waltham, Viscountess Folkestone, Mons. E. Y.
Teas, Merrie England, Le Havre, Violette Bouyer. Fourth box, back
row : Camille Bernardin, La France, Etienne Levet, Madame H.
Jamain, Due de Rohan (good). Baroness de Rothschild. Middle row :
Souvenir d’Blise, Crown Prince, Francisca Kruger, Alfred Colomb
(magnificent). Souvenir de S. A. Prince, Duchess of Bedford (good).
Front row : Edward Andry, Mrs, Harkness, Prince Arthur, Jean Ducher,
Duke of Wellington, and Countess of Oxford. Mr. B. R. Cant, Col¬
chester, was second, the best flowers in this exhibit being Alfred Colomb,
Ethel Brownlow, Jean Soupert, Prince Arthur, The Bride, and Mar^chal
Vaillant. Mr. F. Cant secured a third position with flowers good, but
not up to the customary standard. Five exhibitors competed in this class.

In class 2, for forty-eight, distinct, three trusses of each, there was
a very strong competition. Again, however, the northern growers secured
the leading position, the first prize going to Messrs. Harkness & Sons.
The blooms were very good, and comprised the following varieties : —
Lady Mary Fitzwilliam, A, K. Williams (fine), Margaret Dickson,
Barthelemy Joubert, Souvenir d’Elise, Mons. E. Y. Teas, Dr. Andry (good),
Dupuy Jamain, G6n4ral Jacqueminot, Madame Bravy, Duke of
Connaught, Comtesse de Nadaillac, Marie Verdier, Charles Lefebvre,
Duchesse de Morny (fine), Reynolds Hole (splendid), Etoile de Lyon,
Duchess of Bedford (grand). Marquise de Castellane, Alfred Colomb
(good), Suzanne Marie Rodocanachi, Fisher Holmes, Caroline Kuster, Sir
Rowland Hill, Gustave Piganeau, Mrs. J. Laing (good), Horace Vernet,
La France (fine), Prince Arthur, Catherine Mermet, Dr. Sewell, Mrs.
Harkness, Madame Verdier, Captain Christy, Exposition de Brie,
Innocente Pirola, Duchesse de Vallombrosa, Ulrich Brunner, Madame G.
Luizet, Senateur Vaisse, Madame Cusin, Countess of Rosebery, Merveille,
Beauty of Waltham, Cleopatra, Merveille de Lyon, and Madame
Willermoz. Mr. Frank Cant was a good second, the best flowers in this
stand being Fisher Holmes, Marie Van Houtte, Xavier Olibo, Reynolds
Hole, Souvenir d’Elise Vardon, and Ella Gordon. Mr. B. R. Cant
followed with smaller flowers. There were four competitors in this class.

Mr. Henry Merryweather, Southwell, Notts, was awarded first prize
in the class for forty-eight single trusses, again proving that the
northern growers have the season in their favour this year, the blooms
being exceptionally fine. The varieties shown were Auguste Rigotard,
Mrs. J. Laing, G^n6ral Jacqueminot, Jeannie Dickson, Marie Baumann,
Baroness Rothschild, Charles Lefebvre, Duchess of Bedford (good),
Madame Hauseman, John Stuart Mill, Madame Gabriel Luizet, Gustave
Piganeau, Heinrich Schultheis, Sir Rowland Hill, Dupuy Jamain (fine),
Victor Hugo, Gloire de Margottin, Souvenir de S. A. Prince, Comte de
Raimbaud (good), La France de 1889, Horace Vernet (splendid). Marquise
de Castellane, Camille Bernardin, Marie Margot, Ulrich Brunner, Her
Majesty, Earl of Dufferin, Merveille de Lyon, Jeanne Sury (good),
Spenser, Alfred Colomb, Suzanne Marie Rodocanachi, Beauty of
Waltham, Duke of Teck, Senateur Vaisse, Prosper Laugier, Ernest Metz
(fine). Dr. Sewell, Etienne Levet, Duke of Wellington, Brightness of
Cheshunt, Catherine Mermet, Madame H. Pereire, The Bride, Fisher
Holmes, Francisque Rive, Abel Carriere, and Eclaire. Messrs. G. and
W. H. Burch, Peterborough, were second in this class. These flowers
were fresh, Horace Vernet, Camille Bernardin, A. K. Williams, Pierre
Netting, and Charles Darwin being especially good. Messrs. Perkins
and Son, Coventry, were third. Five competitors were forthcoming
in this class.

Mr. W. H. Frettingham, Beeston, Notts, was first in the class for
twenty-four, distinct, single trusses, staging some grand blooms. The
varieties shown were — back row : Ulrich Brunner, Jean Leli^vre, Com¬
tesse de Ludre (good), A. K. Williams (grand). Pride of Waltham,
Alfred Colomb, Duchess of Bedford (richly coloured), Louis Van Houtte.
Middle row : Due de Wellington, Her Majesty, Auguste Neuman, La
France, Charles Lefebvre (fine), Duke of Edinburgh, Marie Baumann,
Lord Macaulay. Front row ; Duke of Teck, Reynolds Hole, Madame C.
Crapelet, Dinge Conard, Mrs. J. Laing, Ferdinand de Lesseps, Charles
Darwin, and Mons. E. Y. Teas. Mr. J. Mattock, New Headington,
Oxford, was a good second. This stand included some grand blooms of
Marie Baumann, Mrs. J. Laing, La France, Ulrich Brunner, and Earl
Dufferin. Messrs. D. Prior & Sons, Colchester, were third with fair
blooms. There were four exhibitors in this class.

In the class for twenty-four, distinct, single trusses, the competition
was keen. Messrs. G. & W. H. Burch were awarded the first prize for a
stand of small, but fresh, and well coloured blooms. The varieties
shown were Her Majesty, Reynolds Hole, Marie Verdier, Earl Dufferin,
Mrs. J. Laing, Gustave Piganeau, Marie Van Houtte, Fisher Holmes,
Madame Rady, Exposition de Brie, Merveille de Lyon, A. K. Williams,
Xavier Olibo, Innocente Pirola, Marchioness of Dufferin, Duke of
Wellington, Senateur Vaisse, Comte de Raimbaud, Alfred Colomb,

Jmly C, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

16

Comtesse de Nadaillac, Horace Vernet (good), Ulrich Brunner, Madame
E. Verdier, and Marie Baumann. Mr. W. H. Frettingham, Beeston,
was a very close second, showing, amongst others, grand blooms of
Duchess of Bedford, Her Majesty, Comtesse de Ludre, and Merveille de
Lyon. Mr. G. Mount, Canterbury, was third.

Amateurs’ Classes.

The trophy class for forty-eight blooms which always excites so much
interest, brought five stands. It would be idle to state that they formed
as high class a display as last year, but the season has always to be con¬
sidered. A really fine stand from Mr. E. B. Lindsell, Bearton, Hitchin,
secured the premier award and added to his already high reputation.
The flowers were large, fresh, and full of colour, the varieties being as
follows — Back row : Horace Vernet (very fine), Mrs. J. Laing, Prince
Arthur (very fine), Madame E. Verdier, Francois Michelon, Ulrich
Brunner (splendid, selected as the best amateur’s H.P. in the Show),
Her Majesty, Maurice Bernardin, Duchess of Morny, A. K. Williams,
Mdme. J. Desbois (poor). Lady Shefiield, Louise Van Houtte, Merveille de
Lyon, Countess of Oxford (out of colour), and Gustave Piganeau.
Middle row : Mdme. Hoste, Duke of Wellington, Mardchal Niel, Dr.
Sewell, Comtesse de Nadaillac (very good), Alfred Colomb, J. S. Mill,
Ethel Brownlow, Prince Camille de Bohan, The Bride (fine), Dupuy
Jamain, Caroline Kuster, Etienne Levet, Comte Raimbaud, Marie Van
Houtte, and Abel Carri^re. Front row : Fisher Holmes, Mdme. Cusin,
Earl of Dufferin, Marie Verdier, Eosieriste Jacobs, Innocente Pirola,
Madame V. Verdier, Chas. Lefebvre, Camille Bernardin, Xavier Olibo,
Catherine Mermet, Sir Rowland Hill, Reynolds Hole, Souvenir d’un Ami,
Beauty of Waltham, and La France. The Rev. J. H. Pemberton, Havering-
atte-Bower, Romford, took the second prize. He had distinctly less
weight than the Hitchin grower and one or two of his flowers were badly
tarnished, but as a whole the stand was a good one. Marshall P.
Wilder, Auguste Rigotard, J. S. Mill, Horace Vernet, Sir Rowland Hill,
and Ernest Metz were extremely good, and the last named was a splendid
flower. Mr. H. V. Machin, Gateford Hill, Worksop, was third with a
highly creditable stand.

There were four stands of thirty-six single trusses, and the first prize
went to the Rev. A. Foster- Melliar, Sproughton Rectory, Ipswich, for an
excellent collection, the flowers being large and well coloured. The
varieties were as follows — Back row : Mrs. Paul, Lord Macaulay, Com¬
tesse Panisse, Madame Isaac Pereire, La Boule d’Or, E. Y. Teas, Baroness
Rothschild, Emilie Hausburg, Duke of Wellington, Hippolyte Jamain,
and Madame Hoste. Middle row : Marie Verdier, Le Havre, Victor
Hugo, Mar6chal Niel, Charles Darwin. Horace Vernet, Abel Carriere,
Ethel Brownlow, Ernest Metz, Madame Charles Crapelet, Margaret
Dickson, and Alfred Colomb. Front row : Camille Bernardin, Merveille
de Lyon, Eugene Furst, Francois Michelon, Souvenir d’un Ami, Jean
Liabaud, Souvenir d’Elise, Penelope Mayo, Comtesse de Nadaillac,
Ulrich Brunner, Marie Baumann, and Beauty of Waltham. Mr. W.
Drew, Uplands, Ledbury, took second place with an excellent stand ; it
contained no specially meritorious flowers, except perhaps a G6n6ral
Jacqueminot, but the blooms were fresh and in good colour. The Rev.
J. H. Pemberton was a good third. The twenty-four class only brought
two stands, but both were good ones. Mr. Gurney Fowler, Woodford,
had a very even, fresh, and richly coloured collection, and was placed
first. His back row flowers were J. S. Mill, Rosieriste Jacobs, Duchess of
Leeds, Charles Lefebvre (very good), Fran9ois Michelon, Earl of Dufferin,
Madame Eugene Verdier, and Prince Arthur. Middle row : Fisher
Holmes (very fine), Xavier Olibo, Frangois Louvat, Black Prince, Dr.
Sewell, Mrs. J. Laing, A. K. Williams, and Victor Hugo. Front row :
Le Havre, Princess of Wales, Madame Norman Neruda, Duchess of
Caylus, Camille Bernardin, Comtesse de Paris, and Duke of Edinburgh.
Colonel Pitt was second, Mr. Lindsell had the better of two stands of
sixteen trebles, his flowers being large and on the whole good, although
one or two were very weak. The varieties were A. K. Williams, Horace
Vernet (very fine), Her Majesty (poor). Lady Sheffield, Duke of
Wellington, Louis Van Houtte, Catherine Mermet (bad), Dupuy
Jamain, Reynolds Hole, Charles Lefebvre, Alfred Colomb, "rhe Bride,
Comtesse de Nadaillac, Fisher Holmes, Prince Arthur, and Madame J.
Laing. Mr. Machin was second. Mr. W . Drew won with twelve trebles
from Colonel Pitt, his only opponent. The winner had Alfred Colomb,
A. K. Williams, G4n4ral Jacqueminot, Mrs. J. Laing, Lady Sheffield,
Charles Darwin, Comte Raimbaud, Marie Baumann, Louise Van Houtte,
Horace Vernet, Ulrich Brunner, and Earl of Dufierin. Mr. Drew scored
another victory with twelve of one variety, a fine stand of Mrs. J. Laing
representing him. Mr. Budd was second with Marie Baumann, and Mr.
Machin third with La France.

The five classes open onlyi to growers of less than 2000 plants of
varieties of exhibition Roses were interesting. The Rev. H. Berners,
Harkstead Rectory, was first in the class for twenty-four distinct, single
trusses. The varieties shown were Marguerite St. Amand, Marie
Baumann (good). Her Majesty, A. K. Williams (rich). Baroness Rothschild,
Camille Bernardin, Fran9ois Michelon, Madame Marie Cointet, Earl of
Pembroke, Dr. Hogg, Eclaire, Heinrich Schultheis, Le Havre (good),
Duke of Edinburgh, Merveille de Lyon, Reynolds Hole, Gustave Piga-
neau. The Bride, Horace Vernet, Prince Arthur, Madame Hoste, Jean
Soupert, Francisca Kruger, and John Bright. Mr. A. Slaughter, Stey-
ning, Sussex, was second, the best flowers in this stand being Fisher
Holmes, A. K. Williams, Dr. Andry, and Beauty of Waltham. Mr.
W. C. Romaine, The Priory, Old Windsor, was third.

Mr. A. Whitton, Asken, Bedale, was first in the class for eighteen
distinct, single trasses, with a box of grand blooms. The varieties shown
were Ulrich Brunner (good), Madame E. Verdier, Marie Baumann,

Merveille de Lyon, Duke of Wellington, Dupuy Jamain, Lady Mary
Fitzwilliam, Thomas Mills, Viscountess Folkestone, La Havre, Mona.
Gustave Guinneseau, Victor Hugo (good), Charles Lefebvre, Mrs.
J. Laing (fine). Dr. Andry, Madame Gabriel Luizet, Countess of
Rosebery, and Margaret Dickson. Mr. J. Parker, Oakfield, Hitchin, was
second, and Mr. E. Mawley, Rosebank, Berkhampsted, third, both
staging good flowers. Mr. J. Ough, Clifford Street, Hereford, was given
the premier award for twelve distinct, single trusses, showing Sir
Rowland Hill, Gustave Piganeau (good), G(5n6ral Jacqueminot, Merveille
de Lyon, Marie Baumann, Camille Bernardin, Her Majesty, Earl of
Dufferin (good), Reynolds Hole, Mrs. J. Laing, Suzanne Marie Rodo-
canachi (grand), and The Bride. There was no other exhibitor in this
class. The Rev. H. Berners was first with eight distinct, three trusses
of each, showing fine blooms of Her Majesty, Henrich Schultheis, Ulrich
Brunner, Mrs. J. Laing, Merveille de Lyon, Camille Bernardin, Crown
Prince, and Alfred Colomb. Mr. A. Slaughter was awarded the second
prize, there being no third competitor. The Rev. H. Berners was again
first for nine single trusses of any Hybrid Perpetual, showing a grand
bloom of Merveille de Lyon. Mr. W. C. Romaine was second with Dr.
Andry, and Mr. Whitton third with Merveille de Lyon.

Division E was open to growers of not more than 1000 plants. There
were six stands of twelve, the best being that from Mr. Orpen, West
Bergholt, Colchester, who had Alfred Colomb (very good), Mar^chal
Niel, Gustave Piganeau (very fine), Souvenir d’uo Ami, Baroness Roth¬
schild, Horace Vernet, La France, Camille Bernardin, Mdlle. Marie Rady,
Marie Van Houtte, Fisher Holmes, and Marie Suzanne Rodocanachi.
Mr, C. J. Grahame, Coombe Road, Croydon, was second, losing a little
in weight, but gaining in freshness. Mr. Parker was third, and Dr.
Tucker fourth. Mr. Conway Jones had the best of three stands of nine,
his varieties being Prince Camille de Rohan, Catherine Mermet, Chas.
Lefebvre, Niphetos, Louis Van Houtte, Marie Hoste, Benoit Comte,
Alfred Colomb, and Earl Dufferin. Mr. M. Hodgson, Shirley Cottage,
Croydon, was second ; and Mr. C. E. Cuthell, Chapel Croft, Dorking,
third. Mr. Parker had the best six trebles, his varieties being Alfred
Colomb, Comtesse de Nadaillac, Mrs. J. Laing, E. Y. Teas, Earl Dufferin,
and Suzanne Marie Rodocanachi. Miss Mellish and Dr. Tucker were
second and third. The best six of one variety came from Dr. Tucker,
who had very heavy blooms of Her Majesty. Mr. Parker was second
with the same variety ; and Mr. Hodgson third with Alfred Colomb.
There were two other stands.

The blooms in the classes open to growers of less than 500 plants
of varieties of exhibition Roses were not quite up to the standard of last
year. Mrs. L. P. Times, Hitchin, was first with nine distinct, single
trusses, showing Her Majesty, Etienne Levet, Horace Vernet, Alfred
Colomb, Earl Dufferin, Mrs. J. Laing, Marie Baumann, Madame C.
Crapelet, and Due de Wellington. Mr. G. Monies, Sim Street, Hitchin,
was second, and Mr. H. P. Landen, Shenfield, Brentwood, third. Dr.
Freshfield, The Wilderness, Reigate, was first for six distinct, single
trusses, staging Duke of Teck, John Bright, Comtesse de Nadaillac,
E. Y. Teas, Marguerite Brassac, and Star of Waltham in good condition.
The Rev. J. R. Buchanan Horne Vicarage, Canterbury, was second in
this class ; Mr. F. S. Francis, Crofton Hall, Orpington, third ; and Miss
Denton, Orchard Court, Stevenage, fourth. Miss E. B. Denton was,
however, first for four distinct, three trusses of each. These were
Charles Lefebvre, Mrs. J. Laing, E. Y. Tea?, Alfred Colomb. Mr. F.
Francis was second, and Mr. A. F. Grace, Christy Green House, Steyning,
Sussex, third.

In the class comprising six distinct, single trusses, and open only to
amateurs who have never won a prize at an exhibition of the National
Rose Society, Mr. A. Bryant, The Cottage, Foots Cray, was first, showing
Madame V. Verdier, Mrs. J. Laing, Alfred Colomb, Camille Bernardin,
Marie Rady, and Comtesse de Nadaillac. Mr. A. F. Grace was second,
and Mr. H. Browne, Spa Hill, Upper Norwood, third. Mr. J. Bateman,
Highgate, first in the class for six single trusses grown within eight
miles of Charing Cross, with Ulrich Brunner, Rosieriste Jacobs, Her
Majesty, Marie Rady, Suzanne Marie Rodocanachi, and Camille Ber¬
nardin in good condition. Mr. Rivers H. Loughton, Hendon, was
second, and Mr. Hugh White, 5, Woodside Cottage, Highgate, third.
Rev. J. H. Pemberton, Havering-atte-Bower, Essex, first in the class for
six “ new Roses,” single trusses. The varieties shown were Augustine
Guinoisseau, Caroline Testout, Elise Fugier, Gustave Piganeau, Jeannie
Dickson, and Duchess of Fife. Mr. J. Bateman was a close second.
There was no other competitor in this class.

Tea and Noisette Division.

In Class, 26, for twenty-four Teas and Noisettes, single trusses, there
were three stands, and the winning one was that of Mr. B. R. Cant,
whose flowers were even but by no means so clean and fresh as usual.
He had a grand Ethel Brownlow, while Madame Hoste, Madame de
Watteville, The Bride, and Souvenir d’Elise were also very good. Mr,
Frank Cant was second with Ethel Brownlow, Niphetos, and Madame
Cusin as the best of a moderate collection, and Messrs. D. and W.
Croll were third. Mr. B. R, Cant again won with eighteen trebles, and this
was a stronger stand than the twenty-four singles, the flowers as a
whole being cleaner. Comtesse de Nadaillac, Madame Cusin, Madame de
Watteville, and Ethel Brownlow were the best. Mr, Mount followed
with much smaller but fairly fresh blooms, Marie Van Houtte, Comtesse
de Nadaillac, Madame Cusin, and Niphetos being clean, though lacking
size. Mr. Frank Cant was third. The Tea and Noisette trophy class
for eighteen blooms brought out one of the very best stands in the
Show. It came from the Rev, A. Foster-Melliar, Sproughton Rectory,
Ipswich, and was distinguished for the size, freshness, and cleanliness of

16

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ July e, 1895.

the flowers. The varieties were as follows : — Back row : Marechal Nieh
Madame Cusin (a magnificent flower), Ernest Metz, The Bride, Comtesse
Panisse, Ethel Brownlow (very fine). Middle row : Hon. Edith Gifford,
Anne Ollivier, Innocente Pirola, Souvenir d’Elise (very fine), Jean Ducher
(weak), and Souvenir de S, A. Prince. Front row : Catherine Mermet,
Comtesse de Nadaillac, Caroline Kuster, and Marie Van Houtte (very
good), Madame Hippolyte Jamain, and Souvenir d’un Ami. Mr. O. G.
Orpen, Colchester, was second, and Mr. H. V. Machin third.

The Eev. H. Berners won with twelve, his blooms being very neat,
clean and fresh. Ethel Brownlow was very richly coloured, and so was
Madame Cusin. Colonel Pitt, Turkey Court, Maidstone, was second.
Mr. Foster Melliar won with twelve trebles, his stand being of fair
quality though the flowers were somewhat soiled. Mr. Machin was a
close second. The best stand of any Tea or Noisette, nine blooms, came
from Mr. Berners, who had a delightful stand of Madame Hoste, the
flowers being in beautiful condition, though not large. Mr. Machin was
second with Caroline Kuster.

There were five stands of twelve in division 2, open only to growers
of less than 500 plants of Teas and Noisettes, and the best was that of
Mr. Orpen, the blooms being small but fairly fresh. Mr. Parker, The
Croft, Headington, Oxon, was second with larger flowers, but some past
their best. Mr, A. Tate, Downside, Leatherhead, was third, and Mr.
Conway Jones, Hucclecote, Gloucester, fourth. The Rev. J. H. Pem¬
berton won with nine, Mr. Mawley being second. Both had small
blooms, but they were in excellent condition, the greater weight of the
Essex blooms gaining them the chief award. Mr. Orpen was victorious
with six trebles, having Marie Van Houtte particularly good, and Mr.
Parker was second. They occupied the same positions for six of one
variety, Marechal Niel representing Mr. Orpen, and The Bride Mr.
Parker, Dr. Tucker, Swanley Junction, was third with the Hon. Edith
Gifford.

Division 3 was for still smaller growers, 200 being the maximum
number of plants allowed. Dr. Tucker was victorious with nine singles,
his flowers being very fresh and good, except Catherine Mermet, which
was a decided blot on the stand. Miss Mellish, Woodstock Priory,
Worksop, was second ; and Mr. W. D. Freshfield, The Wilderness,
Eeigate, third, Mr. A. Whitton, Askew, Bedale, defeated four opponents
with six, and he had a very good stand. Souvenir d’Elise and Rubens
being admirable. Mr. J. S. Francis, Orpington, was a creditable second ;
the Eev. J. R. Buchanan, Canterbury, third ; and Mr. G. Monies, Hitchin,
fourth.

The single variety classes were, as usual, very attractive. Mr,
B. E. Cant had the best twelve of any yellow, winning with Madame
Hoste ; Messrs. Croll were second, and Mr. Mattock third with Marie
Van Houtte. There was one other stand, Messrs. Mack & Son won from
four opponents with twelve of any white except Niphetos, Merveille de
Lyon in good condition representing them. Messrs. Harkness and Croll
were second and third with the same variety. Eight competed with
twelve of any crimson except Marie Baumann or A. K. Williams. The
English Fruit and Rose Co. won with a grand box of Alfred Colomb. Mr,
Mount was second with Fisher Holmes, and Messrs. Paul & Son third
with Alfred Colomb. There were seven stands of dark velvety crimson
varieties. Messrs. Prior & Son won with Fisher Holmes, Mr. Frank Cant
was second with Xavier Olibo, and Mr. Mount third with Abel Carri&re.
Messrs. Prior & Son won from four opponents with Marechal Niel,
having a capital box. Mr. Mount was second, and Mr. Orpen third.
Five competed with Marie Baumann, Mr. Mount winning with smooth
bright examples. Messrs. Frank Cant and B. R. Cant were second and
third. Mrs. John Laing was splendidly shown. Mr. Mattock won with
a grand box, Messrs. Harkness & Son were second with smaller but
beautiful flowers, and Messrs. Burch third. There were seven other
boxes. Messrs, Mack & Son won with A. K. Williams ; Messrs. Perkins
and Son second, and Mr. B. R. Cant third, one other competing. There
were only two stands of Niphetos, both very good. Messrs. Burch were
first, and Mr. Mount second. Mr. B. E. Cant was victorious with Her
Majesty, large but tarnished. Messrs, Burch being second, and Mr.
Mount third. Two competed with Ernest Metz, Mr. B, R. Cant winning
with a beautiful box, and Mr. Frank Cant being second. Mr. B. R. Cant
was also first for Ethel Brownlow in splendid condition, Mr. Mount
being second, and Mr. Frank Cant third. For twelve of any H.P. not
named Mr. Frank Cant was first with Fisher Holmes, Mr. Mount second
with the same variety, and Mr. B, R. Cant third with Alfred Colomb.
There were eleven stands in all. Mr. Mount won with six of Catherine
Mermet and six of The Bride, and Mr. B. R. Cant was second ; no others
competing. For twelve of any new Rose Messrs. Harkness & Son were
first with a splendid box of Gustave Piganeau ; Mr. Frank Cant was
second, and Mr. B. R. Cant third with the same variety. Messrs.
Dickson «fe Sons, Newtownards, had a beautiful silvery blush variety
named Mrs. Sharman Crawford, for which a gold medal was awarded,
and they were accorded a similar honour for a splendid ivory white
variety named Marchioness of Londonderry. A gold medal also went to
Mr. Chas. Turner for the garden Rose Crimson Rambler, which produces
huge clusters of blooms. Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, won with twelve
new Roses, exhibiting Gustave Piganeau, Mrs. Paul, Marie Magat,
Dowager Duchess of Marlborough, Gustave Regis, Duke of Fife, Waban,
Violet Queen, Chas. Gates, Paul’s Early Blush, Bruce Findlay, and
Fr^re Marie Pierre. Mr. Pemberton was second,

Gaeden and Buttonhole Eosei.

Messrs. Paul & Son showed garden Roses splendidly, as indeed they
always do, and were placed first for thirty-six varieties. Gustave Regis,
Madame Pierre Cochet, Rugosa, Camoens, Lucida, and Perle d’Or were

much admired. Messrs. Croll were second. Mr. Alfred Tate secured
the first prize and Lord Penzance’s silver cup for eighteen bunches.
He had a splendid stand, but unfortunately it was overcrowded. Gloire
de Rosomene, Gloire des Polyanthes, Queen of Bedders, Moschata nivea,
and Perle d’Or were particularly beautiful. Mr. Pemberton and Mr.
Machin were placed equal second, and Miss Mellish fourth. Mr. Cuthell
won with twelve, Mr. Orpen following.

Mr. J. Mattock, New Headington, Oxford, first for tw’elve buttonhole
Roses. The varieties shown included Innocente Pirola, Comtesse de
Nadaillac, Catherine Mermet, Marie Van Houtte, W. A. Richardson,
Niphetos, W. A. Capucina, Madame de Watteville, L’Ideal, Souvenir de
Paul Neyron, and The Bride. Messrs. Keynes, Williams, & Co., Salisbury,
were second ; and Mr. H. V. Machin third. Miss Mellish was first for
nine bunches of single-flowered Roses.

The Pkemier Blooms.

The premier H.P. in the trade classes, as already remarked, w'as a
magnificent example of Horace Vernet in Messrs. Harkness & Sons’ first
prize stand of seventy-two, and in the amateurs’ section a noble flower
of Ulrich Brunner in Mr. Lindsell’s first prize stand of forty-eight. The
premier trade Tea was a beautiful bloom of The Bride, exhibited by Mr,
B. R, Cant, and the premier amateurs’ Tea a superb bloom of Madame
Cusin, one of the best ever seen, in Mr. Foster-Melliar’s first prize box
of eighteen.

Miscellaneous.

Miscellaneous exhibits were not so numerous as on former occasions.
Messrs. W. Paul & Son, Waltham Cross, sent a large collection of cub
Roses and ornamental foliage shrubs. The Roses were very bright,
L’Ideal, Alfred Colomb, Mrs. J. Laing being specially good. Messrs.
J. Cheal & Sons sent hardy flowers and Violas, and Messrs. J. Laing and
Sons had a charming group of tuberous Begonias tastefully arranged.
Mr. W. Rumsey, Waltham Cross, sent some Roses not for competition
and Lord Penzance had a stand of garden Roses. Messrs. G. Jackman
and Sons, Woking, also sent a large collection of cut Roses, which
attracted some attention.

TORQUAY. — June 27th and 28th.

A Rose Show was held in the nursery grounds of Mtssrs. Curtis,
Sanford & Co., Torquay, on July 27th, and continued the following
day. The primary object of the Show was to provide a Devon Rosery
Gardeners’ Relief Fund. As in previous years, the whole of the arrange¬
ments were undertaken by the above firm, the members of which did
every t’ning in their power to render the Exhibition successful. About
400 feet of staging were erected in the house set apart for the Show.

Mr. Morton Sparke was awarded first prize for a box of twenty-four
distinct varieties, which included an exceedingly fine Captain Christy
and good specimens of Madame Willermoz and Lord Bacon. Mr. Sparke
also obtained the gold medal for nine Tea and nine Hybrid Perpetual
blooms. The finest flowers comprised Madame Pierre Guillot, Etienne
Levet, Hon. Edith Gifford, Baroness Rothschild, and Duke of Edinburgh.
The honours again went to Mr. Morton Sparke for his thirty-six distinct
varieties, including good examples of Ulrich Brunner, Xavier Olibo,
Mardchal Niel and Anna Olivier. Mrs. J. M. Browning in her winning
box of twelve distinct varieties sent admirable specimens of Baroness
Rothschild and Merveille de Lyon. Mr. Fortescue was awarded the
first for six distinct varieties, his most noteworthy blooms being Merveille
de Lyon and Dupuy Jamain. Duchess of Bedford and Catherine
Mermet were the pick of the half-dozen varieties with which Mr. J.
Armitage secured honours, while in the class for six blooms of one
variety Lady Macgregor won easily with a magnificent box of Marechal
Niels. Among the prizes offered by the Torquay Horticultural Society
were two silver medals, one for the best Hybrid Perpetual and the other for
the best Tea Rose in the Show. Both the medals were carried off by
Mr. Mallock, Louis Van Houtte being adjudged the finest Hybrid Per¬
petual and his Alba Rosea the best Tea bloom.

The most striking feature of the Show was the splendid collection of
cut Rose blooms exhibited by Messrs. Curtis, Sanford & Co., between
thirty and forty boxes of the choicest varieties being staged with
admirable effect.

Messrs. Robert Veitch & Son of Exeter sent an interesting collection
of Alpine plants.

SITTINGBOURNE.— June 29th.

The Sittingbourne and District Rose Society is a new body, and as
the Committee includes such well-known rosarians as Mr. R. L. Knight
and Captain Christy, with Mr. Prideaux Selby as Secretary, its career
should be as successful as enthusiasm and practical knowledge can
make it. The first Show was an excellent one considering the trials
brought about by the peculiar season, heavy wind and rain having
followed the prolonged drought, and it may be expected to increase in
importance as each year comes round. An admirable schedule had
been formed, and the awards are briefly noted herewith.

In the first of the open classes, which was for thirty-six varieties,
Mr. Geo. Mount won with a first-rate stand, the blooms being large,
fresh, and bright. Gustave Piganeau, Duchess of Bedford, Mrs. John
Laing, Niphetos, and Alfred Colomb were fine blooms. Messrs. W. Ray
and Co. were second. Mr. Mount had another fine box of twelve
trebles, the flowers being heavy, and except for one or two in beautiful
condition. Messrs. Ray & Co. were second, and, as before, many points
in the rear. With twelve Teas Mr. Mount scored his third victory, and
again richly deserved it, for his blooms were in beautiful order. Efchel
Brownlow, Madame Cusin, Souvenir de Paul Neyron, Comtesse de

July 6, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

17

Nadaillac, The Bride, and Souvenir d’EIise were all delightful examples.
Colonel Pitt followed with much smaller flowers, of which Marie Van
Houtte and Souvenir de G. Drevet were the best.

The classes reserved for members of the Society followed the rules
of the National Rose Society, being divided into sections to suit small and
large growers. Colonel Pitt won with twenty-four in the class for
growers of any number of plants. His stand was uneven, and some of
the blooms were weatherworn, but John S. Mill and Alfred Colomb were
excellent, while Madame Bravy, Marie Van Houtte, and Camille
Bernardin were very good. Major Knight was second, not far in the
rear, for though there was less weight in his stand, the flowers as a
w’hole were a little fresher. Captain Christy won with twelve. He had
very fresh bright blooms, amongst which Marie Van Houtte, Mrs. John
Laing, The Bride, and Dr. Andry were very fine. Colonel Pitt was
second, and Major Knight third. Colonel Pitt was first with twelve
Teas and also with six trebles, both being very good stands. In the
latter class Major Knight was second.

Mr. Frank Honeyball was first with twelve in the section open to
growers of not more than 500 plants, Mr. Edward Prentis second, and
the Rev. W. J. Mellor third. With nine Teas and four trebles (Teas)
respectively Dr. Selby secured the leading position, the other prizes
going to Messrs. Mellor and A. J. Thomas. Mr. F. T. Knight had a
bright stand of nine in the 250 plants section, and won somewhat
easily from Mrs. Tylden, Mrs. F. Neame being third. Mr. Knight also
won with three trebles, Mr. Mellor being second, and Mr. Neame third.
Mr. Mellor had a very good stand of six Teas, the blooms including a
fine one of President, and he won easily, Mrs. Tylden being second.
Bliss Vallance and Miss Walter secured the principal prizes in the
remaining classes. The National Rose Society’s medal for the best
bloom in the Show was awarded to Major Knight for a grand example
of Bladame Victor Verdier.

The floral decorations were very attractive. Bliss Ray was victorious
with an epergne, in the arrangement of which she had displayed a com¬
mendable lightness of touch. Miss Knight was second, and BIrs. Selby
third. Bliss Ray won with a soup plate and tumbler of flowers, Mrs.
R. L. Knight with a spray, and Miss Christy with buttonholes. Bliss
Vallance, BIrs. Selby, and Miss Sutton making themselves responsible
for the minor awards. Mr. Kennett, gardener to the Rev. W. J. Mellor,
exhibited a promising seedling Tomato.

CROYDON. — July 5th.

The best Show that the Croydon Horticultural Society has yet held
took place in private grounds close to the east station yesterday
(Wednesday). Roses, specimen plants, and vegetables were admirable,
and it is only to be regretted that time and space do not admit of full
particulars being given. Mr. RoSey had, as usual, arranged matters well.

The Rose classes were not well filled in all cases, but the flowers were
surprisingly good. Blessrs. Paul & Son of Cheshunt were not opposed
with forty-eight, but they would have taken a great deal of beating,
for their flowers were very clean and fresh. One of the best blooms was
the rosy crimson H.P. Due d’Orleans, while Niphetos, Viscountess
Folkestone, and E. Y. Teas were excellent. Mr. B. R. Cant was unop¬
posed with twenty-four trebles, and as usual in such classes had a strong
stand. Victor Hugo, Prince Arthur, and A. K. Williams were very fine,
particularly the latter. BIr. Mount was victorious with twenty-four
singles, showing an even and fresh stand in which Thomas Blills, Alfred
Colomb, and A. K. BVilliams were very good. BIr. T. Durrant Young
w'as second, and BIr. Butcher third. BIr. B. R. Cant had a splendid stand
of twenty-four Teas, albeit a few of the blooms were a little tinged.
Souvenir d’EIise, Niphetos, Luciole, and Catherine Blermet were all
fine flowers, while there were many other good blooms. Mr. Mount
was a very good second, and Messrs. Prior k. Son third. BIr. Mount
had the best twelve of one variety, a splendid box of Mrs. John Laing.
Messrs. Prior & Son were second with Fisher Holmes, very even and
well coloured ; and Blessrs. Paul & Son third with Mrs. John Laing. In
the corresponding Tea class Messrs. Prior & Son were first with a beautiful
stand of BIar4chal Niel ; BIr. Blount second with Comtessede Nadaillac ;
and BIr. B. R. Cant third with Ethel Brownlow.

The fact of BIr. Lindsell showing in the amateurs’ section was
evidence enough of quality there. He won with thirty-six with a very
good stand, in which a grand Horace Vernet was very conspicuous.
BIr. Brown, gardener to Mrs. Waterlow, was second, and Mr. Alfred
Slaughter third. BIr. Blundell, gardener to G. Christy, Esq., defeated
the Hitchin amateur with twenty-four, but not by much, both stands
containing flowers in good colour. Mr. Slaughter was third. BIr.
Lindsell had a very fine box of six trebles, Horace Vernet and
Alfred Colomb being excellent. Messrs. Blundell and Slaughter were
second and third. Mr. Lindsell had the best twelve of one variety,
small, but very neat flowers of Comtesse de Nadaillac representing him.
BIr. Slaughter was second with Alfred Colomb, and Mr. Wright third
with BIrs. John Laing. BIr. Blundell won with eighteen Teas, and BIr.
Blawley with twelve, the latter also taking first for twelve H.P.’s. He
had small but very clean flowers. BIr. Slaughter won with four trebles,
and other prizewinners were Messrs. C. J. Grahame, Bateman (the latter
being first for nine), G. Bloules, K. H. Gifford, J. de la Mare, H. Shoe-
smith, and the Rev. W. Wilks. BIr. Grahame showed to great advan¬
tage in the district classes, and secured two medals with a beautiful
example of BIrs. John Laing. The floral decorations, cut flowers, and
table plants formed a good display.

The larger tent was filled with splendid material in the way of
specimen plants and Orchids. BIr. H. C. Tilbey, gardener to F. Berns,
Esq., won with six of the latter. Mr. Carr, gardener to Mrs. Stephenson

Clarke, had some very fine Salaglnellas, and won from Messrs. King,
gardener to P. Crowley, Esq., and Simmonds, gardener to H. C.BIayhew,
Esq. The latter won with Zonal Pelagoniums, and Mr. Slater, gardener
to BIrs. Hulse with Gloxinias, BIr. C. Perrett also taking a first for the
latter. BIr. Slater was most successful with Ivy-leaved Pelagoniums, and
Mr. Tilbey with Ferns. Begonias were finely shown by BIr. Slater, the
plants being large and well bloomed, while Mr. Kirk and BIr. Simmonds
also had good plants, Mr. Slater and Mr. Kirk took the chief prizes.
The famous specimens of W. BVarren, Esq., Handcross Park, Crawley,
now under the charge of Mr. W. Hallam (Mr. Offer, with whose name
they have long been associated, having, we hear, been promoted) were
very conspicuous in the classes for those plants. BIr. Hallam was first
with nine and Mr. Carr second. The latter had much the larger plants,
and would no doubt have won but for the backward state of his Ron-
deletia. BIr. King was third. Mr. Hallam had some magnificent
ornamental leaved plants and won easily with nine, his Crotons, Alocasia
macrorhiza variegata, and Cycas revoluta being pictures of health.
BIr. King’s giants were also in good order, his Anthuriums being very
noticeable. He was placed second. Blessrs. Hallam first for three plants,
and King had another tussle for Ferns, the Sussex exhibitor emerging
victorious, his plants were in splendid order. Mr. Simmonds was success¬
ful with both Caladiums and Coleuses, and BIr. Carr with Dracrenas.
First prizes for groups went to Messrs. Scott, Wooldridge, and King.

Blessrs. B. S. Williams & Sons, Messrs. Laing & Son, BIr. J. R. Box,
BIr. Butcher, Blessrs. J. Cheal & Son, and Messrs. Peed & Son had
characteristic miscellaneous exhibits.

An idea in connection with this Show well worth copying is to
collect surplus Roses, and sell them in a tent on the ground on behalf of
the Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. Last year £12 was secured in
this way. Mrs. Gunner and Mrs. Dart presided over the stalls.

/

LEE, BLACKHEATH, AND LEWISHAM. — July 5th and 6th.

The Shows of this Society during the quarter of a century of its
existence have always been of a high class character, and that held on
the above dates was, notwithstanding the season, no exception to the
rule. As usual the Exhibition was held in the grounds of The Cedars,
Belmont Hill, Lee, by permission of BIrs. Penn, and the exhibits staged
were quite up to the usual standard. Specimen flowering and ornamental
foliage plants formed a feature at this Show, and groups were well
represented, the same remark applying to fruit and vegetables.

Specimen plants were shown in first-rate condition. BIr. J. Lambert,
gardener to H. W. Segelcke, Esq., Herne Hill, was first for six foliage
plants ; BIr. Jeffery, gardener to BIrs. Crundell, Eltham, being second.
Mr. C. Nunn, gardener to B. Soames, Esq., Blaze Hill, Greenwich,
carried off the honours for four foliage plants ; BIr. Aley, gardener to
R. Kersey, Esq., High Road, Lee, following. Half a dozen Caladiums
were best shown by BIr. W. Payne, gardener to C. D. Abel, Esq., Black-
heath ; BIr. Fox, The Cedars, Lee ; and BIr. C. Nunn following as their
names are given. Mr. Lambert gained the premier award for four
exotic Ferns, showing grand plants, BIr. Fox being second with smaller
specimens. Mr. Jeffery had a good half dozen Ferns, for which the
leading prize was awarded, the second place being accorded to BIr.
C. Nunn. BIr. Fox was first for six Palms, and Mr. C. Nunn had the
best six stove or greenhouse plant* in flower. These included two fine
specimens of Allamanda nobilis and A. Hendersoni. Mr. W. Jeffery
was second with six fiowering plants, showing smaller specimens. BIr.
Nunn had the best single specimen plant in flower, Stephanotis
floribunda, BIr. J. Pearce being second with Allamanda Hendersoni.
Blessrs. W. Jeffery and C. Nunn divided the awards for twelve stove
and greenhouse plants. Mr. •!. Lambert was first with six Draesenas,
Mr. Jefferys and Mr. Fox following.

The class for a collection of twenty-four plants brought forth a good
competition. The prizes, however, went to Messrs. W. Jeffery, F. Fox,
and C. Saville in order named. BIr. Nunn was placed first for a group
of plants, Mr. J. Pearce being second. BIr. C. Helmer, gardener to
Bliss Hooker, Lee Terrace, was first with twelve Gloxinias, and BIr.
C. Nunn first for six plants. Mr. H. Horton also gained a prize for
Gloxinias. Tuberous Begonias were best shown by BIr. T. Bell,
gardener to Rev. G. T. Oldham, Blackheath ; BIr. J. Lambert, and BIr.
C. Helmer. Ornamental-leaved Begonias were good, the best plants
coming from Messrs. J. Lambert, T. Aley, and G. T. Shrubb. A table
of plants staged by Mr. W. Jeffery secured this exhibitor the leading
award, the second prize being accorded BIr. F. Fox for a tasteful
arrangement. Coleuses, Fuchsias, and Pelargoniums, table plants and
hardy flowers, were also well shown by some of the above mentioned
and other exhibitors.

Roses were shown in very good condition considering the season.
BIr. B. R. Cant, Colchester, was awarded the premier prize for seventy-
two blooms. The best of these were A. K. Williams, Beauty of Waltham,
B^’ictor Hugo, Marie Verdier, Bladamei G. Luizet, Ulrich Brunner, and
Alfred Colomb. Blessrs. G. & W. H. Burch, Peterborough, were second with
smaller flowers. There was no third competitor in this class. Blessrs.
Burch were, however, placed first with forty-eight Roses, showing good
flowers. The second prize went to Messrs. J. Laing & Sons. BIr.
J. Bateman, Highgate, had the best dozen blooms ; BIr. H. Cole, gardener
to T. A. Mitchell, Esq., Chislehurst, following. The same exhibitors
secured awards for six Roses in the order given. Messrs. Burch gained
the leading award for twenty-four blooms, Blessrs. B. R. Cant and
J. Laing & Sons following.

Fruit was well shown. BIr. J. Neighbour, Bexley Park, was first for
a collection of fruit, BIr. T. A. Kester, Plumstead, being second, and

18

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July C, 1893.

Mr. Jeffrey, Eltham, third, Mr. Neighbour was again first for another
collection of fruit, Mr. G. F. Shrubb, Blackheath, following. Black
Grapes were best shown by Mr. J. Rhoden, Blackheath Park, gardener
to J. Vavasseur, Esq., Mr. Neighbour being second, and Mr. Goddard,
gardener to T. W. White, Esq., Eltham Road, third. The last named
exhibitor was first with a single bunch of white Grapes, and Mr. Rhoden
similarly for three bunches, showing Duke of Buccleuch in good con¬
dition. Mr. Shrubb was first with Strawberries, and Mr. Neighbour with
Melons and Peaches. Other successful fruit exhibitors were Messrs. J.
Pearce and W. H. Struckett.

Vegetables were shown in first-rate condition by Mr. Fox, who was
first for a collection ; Mr. Jeffery being second. The last-named ex¬
hibitor secured the leading award offered by Messrs. Sutton & Sons for
vegetables from their seeds, the others going to Messrs. Neighbour and
C. Nunn. Mr. Fox had the best six Tomatoes in pots. Mr. Turpin,
High Road, Lee, gained the first prize given by Messrs. C. Sharpe & Co.,
Sleaford. In other classes vegetables were also well represented,
special prizes being offered by Messrs. Daniel Bros., Norwich, and
Carter, Page, & Co., London Wall.

Amongst the miscellaneous exhibits Mr, H. J. Jones, Ryecroft
Nursery, Lewisham, secured a silver medal for a grand group of Fancy
Pelargoniums tastefully arranged. Some splendidly bloomed Zonals
staged by Mr, Jones also attracted attention, especially the new variety,
Mrs. W. Wright, This is of a robust constitution, and the nearest
approach to blue we have seen, meriting the first-class certificate
awarded. It will unquestionably become a popular variety. Messrs. J.
Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, sent some Tuberous Begonias, well flowered ;
and Messrs. J. Peed & Sons, Roupell Park Nurseries, Norwood Road,
S.E,, had a group of Caladiums and other foliage plants, also a collection
of Gloxinias. Messrs. W. Butcher «fe Sons, Blackheath, had a stand of
weed killers ; and Mr. W. Colchester, Ipswich, a stand of ichthemic guano.

Emigeatiok. — The July circulars of the Emigrants’ Information
Office, 31, Broadway, Westminster, and the penny and other hand¬
books, with maps, show the present prospects of emigration. A short
pamphlet on Newfoundland is also issued. A new branch office has been
opened at the Public Library, Nottingham. Work in New South Wales,
especially in towns, continues to be very scarce. The best openings are
for men who are experienced in fruit growing, in the drying and packing
of fruits for export, in the management of irrigated and unirrigated
orchards, in wine making, and in the manufacture and packing of butter
and cheese. Domestic servants continue to be in steady demand
throughout the colony. The towns of Victoria, and especially Melbourne,
are full of men seeking work, and no working man should go there at
present. With the object of providing employment, and drawing men
away from the overcrowded towns, the Government have thrown open
more land for settlement, and have taken steps to initiate village settle¬
ments, to construct two or three country railways, and to assist the
formation of labour colonies. In Queensland the depression at Brisbane,
Ipswich, Townsville, and other places still continues. New Zealand is in
a prosperous condition, and offers many advantages to settlers. In Natal
there is no special demand for labour. New land regulations have been
issued under which cultivation is no longer made a condition of occupa¬
tion by purchasers of crown lands. Agricultural farmers and their
families are now given assisted passages to the Colony on certain con¬
ditions. Official information has been received that an agent has been
sent from Brazil to induce British emigrants to go to the State of San
Paulo in that country. In view of the suffering and loss of life which
have been occasioned by previous schemes of this nature, all persons are
again most strongly warned not to go to this or any other part of Brazil.

WOKK.^o^theWEEK..

FRUIT FORCING.

Vines. — Early Souses. — When the Grapes are cut thoroughly
cleanse the Vines from dust and insects by forcible syringings, keeping
the house as cool as possible by free ventilation, and withdraw the roof
lights where practicable when steady rains prevail. Vines that are
becoming exhausted through long subjection to early forcing and bear-
ing heavy crops should have one of the borders renovated where there
are two, and the roots laid in fresh material near the surface. Where
they are confined to inside borders the roots may also be lifted.
Preparation should now be made for this operation by getting the
materials together, so that the work may be executed at the right time
and with dispatch. One of the borders only should be acted upon at a
time, say the inside border one year, following on with the outside
border the next. The proper time to attend to the roots in the case of
early Vines is as soon as the foliage gives indication* of ripening. Shade
should be provided during the operations and the Vines syringed, keep¬
ing rather close for a time, or until they have pushed fresh roots,
when free ventilation is necessary.

Houses of Ripe Grapes. — Give constant ventilation, and on hot days
sprinkle water on the borders and floors to prevent the Grapes shrivel¬
ling. A temperature of 55° to 60° will be sufficient for Black Ham-

burghs by artificial means, but Muscat of Alexandria and other heat-
requiring varieties will need fire heat to prevent the temperature falling
below 60° to 65° at night. Muscat of Alexandria Grapes colour in
proportion to the light and air they receive. Black Hamburghs finish
best beneath a good spread of foliage, and a slight shade is absolutely
essential to their keeping colour for any length of time after ripening.
Some doubled herring nets drawn over the roof lights is mostly
sufficient.

Grapes Stoning. — During this process the Vines should not be
hurried, either by artificial heat or early closing. Supply the Vines with
plenty of food in an available form at the commencement of the stoning,
which is soon after the Grapes are set, and continue this up to their
changing colour. There is nothing better for Vines than phosphatic and
potassic manures, with nitrogenic in proportion to the vigour of the
Vines, If they are heavily cropped and the foliage is relatively small
they will require more nitrogen than where the foliage is ample.
Nitrate of soda may in such cases be given with advantage, especially
where the soil is light or calcareous. Root growth should precede or be
simultaneous with leaf growth, and the growth produced must be stable,
therefore the manure ought to contain other elements besides nitrogen.
A good mixture for weak Vines in light and calcareous soils may be
formed of three parts bone superphosphate, two parts carbonate of
potash (pearlash), two parts nitrate of soda (powdered), and three parts
ground gypsum ; mix and apply quarter of a pound per square yard
after watering, and wash in moderately. Sulphate of ammonia may be
used where the soil is rather strong instead of the nitrate of soda. As
a good all-round manure for Vines there is everything they require in
three parts bone superphosphate, two parts powdered saltpetre, and one
part ground gypsum mixed, supplying a quarter of a pound per square
yard at intervals, say when the Grapes are set or thinned, half swelled,
and commencing to colour. If the roots are near the surface half
the quantity only should be given at a time, but at less distant intervals.

Grapes Scalding. — The best preventive for this consists in admitting
air rather freely towards the close of the stoning period, especially in
the early part of the day and through the day, with a little at night,
and a gentle warmth in the pipes, so as to maintain a temperature of
about 70° artificially. Scalding is most prevalent during bright weather
following a dull period. The essential point is to avoid the deposition
of moisture upon the berries, for if they are allowed to be covered with
moisture and the sun raises the temperature considerably before ventila¬
tion is given the leaves will assuredly scorch and the berries scald. The
most critical time is just before (a fortnight to three weeks) the Grapes
change colour for ripening, Muscat of Alexandria, however, scorches
badly even after the Grapes are advanced in colour, and a slight shade,
as that of garden nets drawn over the roof lights, is of great benefit in
breaking the fierce rays of the sun.

Shanking. — This is seldom altogether absent from the best cultivated
Grapes, and often causes great trouble through deterioration of crop.
It is known to be accelerated by suspended root-action at the critical
period of the Grapes ripening, and certainly is a result of error in
management, border formation, and soil constituents. No one really
knows anything for certain about this tantalising disease, but it has
been attributed to fungal and bacterial agencies. There are, however,
no fungous outgrowths to be found in shanked Grapes, except those
usually found on dead vegetable matter, but there is an affection on the
shanks of the berries and footstalks of the bunches of Muscat of
Alexandria Grapes that contain mycelia in the living tissue, and the
outgrowths, though not well developed, are evidently those of a
Gloeosporium, not unlike G. laticolor. This is a rather unusual ailment
in Muscat of Alexandria Grapes, and may or may not be associated with
ordinary shanking (a contraction instead of swelling) in the footstalks of
the berries.

To avoid shanking the borders must be well made and the Vines
properly managed, fully exposing the foliage to light and air, allowing
no more growth to be made than can have those essentials. Deficiency
of ventilation in the early stages of growth, combined with too much
moisture, inducing long-jointed growth and thin foliage, are unfavour¬
able to the building up of healthy tissues, and food derived from a cold
wet border, with the roots deeply situated, are not likely to produce well
finished fruit. Vines liable to have shanked berries should be given
time, particular attention being paid to the ventilation, and avoiding
sudden fluctuations of temperature, so as to secure a steady supply of
nutriment, and allow for its due assimilation by permitting a good spread
of; foliage. Regulate the growths on the extension rather .the
restrictive system where there is room for it without crowding, keeping
all gross laterals stopped so as to cause an equal flow and distribution
of the sap throughout the Vines, and this will assist them to perfect
their crops. It is, however, necessary to renovate the border in bad cases
of shanking, and lay the roots in fresh compost near the surface.

Young Vines. — There are two methods of treating those of this
season’s planting. 1, Allowing them to grow unchecked so as to secure
plenty of roots and stout stems, little regard being paid to the growths
except as regards the leaves corresponding to the pruning buds, which
are not suffered to be crowded, and this gives three good buds at the
bottom of the trellis to which the canes are shortened at the winter
pruning. 2, The young canes are permitted to grow to a length of about
9 feet, and are then stopped. The lateral at the joint will push strongly,
and should be let grow to the extent of four to six leaves, when its
point may be pinched off ; then its laterals may be pinched to one leaf,
also sub-laterals as made. Laterals proceeding from the joints along
the cane being stopped to one leaf, and the sub-laterals also to one joint

July 6, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

19

of growth, the vigour will be concentrated on the cane and principal
buds without starting the latter into growth, and they may be pruned
80 as to bear a moderate crop of fruit the following year.

Vines in Pots for Early Forcing. — Those intended for this purpose
should by this time have completed their growths. Supply water only
to prevent the foliage becoming limp, exposing the Vines to all the
light and sun possible, so as to thoroughly ripen the wood and the buds.
Keep them free from insects, as it is important that the leaves perform
their functions to the last. After the wood becomes brown and hard
the Vines may be stood on slates or boards in front of a wall with a
south aspect, securing the canes to the wall to prevent the foliage being
damaged by wind.

Melons. — Plants Swelling their Crops. — Ventilate early, or at 75°,
keep through the day at 80° to 90°, as sun avails, and close so as to run
up to 95°, or even 100°, with plenty of atmospheric moisture. A little
ventilation about 6 p.m. will allow the vitiated air to escape and the
temperature to fall gradually, but this is only necessary in closely glazed
frames, pits, or houses, and when the weather is warm at night. Add
fresh soil to the ridges or hillocks as the roots protrude, and press firmly.
Syringe the plants in houses at closing time, and damp well in the
morning and in the evening of hot days. Plants in frames should
be sprinkled at closing for the day, keeping the water from the
collar. Afford liquid manure copiously, always weak and tepid, and
keep it from the foliage of frame plants, which in exceptional cases only
need manurial applications, as they root into the fermenting material
and grow quite vigorous enough without manure water.

Afford support to the fruit in good time, placing slates under those
in pits or frames. Keep the foliage fairly thin, avoiding removing a
large quantity of growths at one time, as this induces gumming. As the
fruit approaches ripening reduce the supply of water at the roots, but
not to cause flagging, and admit a little air constantly, withholding
water from the fruit. Cracked fruits are mostly caused by a moist
atmosphere at night, but any plants that become stunted while the
fruit is swelling, and then given more generous treatment, are more
subject to this defect than those encouraged in the early stages of the
fruit swelling, and afterwards kept rather dry for ripening. This is
essential to secure high quality in the fruit.

Cucumbers. — A few seeds may now be sown for late summer and
early autumn fruiting. The plants from this sowing will be fit to plant
out in about a month ; they do well in frames, and the fruit is finer
than that of old plants. Plants in full bearing must have attention in
thinning exhausted growths, removing tad foliage, stopping, tying, and
regulating the young so as to keep up a succession of bearing wood.
Add a little fresh loam to the surface from time to time, and if sprinkled
with some bone superphosphate occasionally roots will multiply at the
surface, where they can be fed by light mulchings, as advised for Mel ns.
Supply liquid manure in other cases copiously once or twice a week,
according to circumstances. Syringe at closing time, and maintain a
good moisture all day by damping surfaces. Flagging must be prevented
by employing a shade lightly for a few hours in the forenoon and mid¬
day when the sun is powerful. Avoid too much moisture in dull
weather ; it only tends to promote soft growths, and renders the foliage
more susceptible to injury on a bright period ensuing. Close early or
before the temperature has receded to 80°, and so as to gain 5° to 10°,
only employing fire heat to maintain it at 60° to 65° at night, and 70°
to 75° on dull days.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

Tomatoes Under Class. — If the stems of those late planted are
abnormally thick, more especially towards the points, the young leaves
also curling badly, this is a sure sign that the treatment has been too
liberal. Tomatoes should never be planted in very rich soil, the other
extreme also being avoided, what assistance they require in the shape of
fertilisers being best applied from the surface. If, therefore, they are
growing too rankly give less water at the roots, and keep up a good
circulation of warm dry air. Should there be plenty of head room,
allowing some of the side shoots to spread, laying these in not less than
12 inches apart, and pinching out all secondary growth is a good pre¬
ventive of grossness, and the same plan may be followed in the case of
plants trained or staked uprightly, a shoot being reserved on each side,
always provided this can be done without any undue crowding. If the
fruit fails to set well at this time of year this is almost a sure sign of
either grossness, or the other extreme poverty at the roots. Those swell¬
ing off extra heavy lower clusters of fruit soon give signs of exhaustion
of the soil unless well fed, the haulm becoming thin and hardening
prematurely, and the bunches of flower puny, also failing to give fruit.
Anticipate this by surfacing over the soil with a fairly rich compost,
liquid manure also being freely applied. In the case of market growers
top-dressing with compost would be a too expensive proceeding, but
where the soil is at all poor and non-retentive a mulching of short
manure ought to have been applied some time since to the plants
cropping, and to those later planted before they had made much
progress. Where the soil is either non-retentive of moisture or naturally
poor, water ought to be supplied to the borders very freely during hot
dry weather, twice and sometimes thrice in a week.

Tomato Diseases. —Complaints of disease attacks were rife even
during the exceptionally hot and dry weather so long experienced, and
now that a change to weather of a somewhat opposite character has
taken place the chances are that diseases of a fungoid nature will spread
rapidly unless timely preventive measure are taken. Wholly dispensing
with fire heat was a great mistake, and many will have good cause to
regret this false economy. The circulation of warm dry air is one of the

best preventives of disease, and also promotes a hard, productive habit
of growth in the plants. Watering ought always to be done as much as
possible in the morning of clear days, and the foliage wetted but little
if at all. Creating a soft moist atmosphere such as suits Cucumbers
well is just the condition that favours a spread of disease. Where the
Cladosporium, which is quickly recognisable by the broad yellow spots
on the upper surface of the leaves, is rapidly spreading, something
drastic must be attempted to stop its progress, or the whole of the fully
formed leaves will be quickly ruined by it. “ Killmright,” frequently
advertised in these pages, where given a fair trial, has been found an
effective preventive. It is the under side of the leaves that should be
reached principally, that being where the disease germs lodge and
spread.

Mushrooms. — Manure ought now to be collected and prepared for
making into Mushroom beds, more especially in the open or other
quarters than the Mushroom house proper, the latter teing largely
reserved for the later or cold weather crops. Open air beds have of
necessity to be ridge shaped, and the materials used should differ some¬
what from those required for flat beds. Do not wholly separate the
litter from the droppings, the correct course being to reserve about one-
third of the short stained straw with the manure, and to take good care
of the longer portions for the purpose of well covering the beds after
they are made. The beds may be of any length, about three loads of
prepared manure being required to make a bed 3 yards long. Do
not leave the stable manure for weeks together in a heap or pit to over¬
heat and b3comBdryand musty, but keep it well opened out till enough
has been savel for a bed, then fork away the long strawy portion, and
throw the rest into a heap to ferment. In the course of three or four
days, or before it is violently hot in the centre, turn the heap inside out,
gently watering it if at all dry. Continue this treatment about every
second day for the next ten days or fortnight, and by that time there
should be a good heap of well sweetened steadily decaying manure
ready for making into a bed. If the first bed is to be a flat one and
formed under cover of some kind, more of the stained straw should be
forked away from it ; but in other respects the method of preparation
ought to be much the same as that just detailed. Good fresh spawn is
always to be preferred to any that is either cheap and stale, therefore
order the requisite supply from a reliable source in readiness for use
when wanted. Any bads formed and spawned early in July with a view
to having Mushrooms from the middle of August onwards require
particularly good attention. Unless the manure has been very well
prepared it will heat very violently, the centres of the beds attaining a
white heat, and the manure generally spoilt for the growth of Mush¬
rooms accordingly, while if it is too dry decay will cease, and an in¬
sufficient moisture be the cause of the Mushrooms failing to appear in
due course.

PLANT HOUSES.

Begonias. — Plants of various kinds intended for autumn and
winter flowering should be placed into the pots in which they are
intended to flower. After potting, put the plants in cold frames, and
keep moderately close until established, when give more air. Shade
lightly during the brightest part of the day. Insert cuttings of B. Ingram!
in thumb pots. These will be useful early in the year as plants in
5-inch pots. This variety, if placed in baskets of moderate size and
the plants pinched for a time, will yield abundance of flowers in the
autumn. Cuttings of B. nitida and its variety rosea may be inserted
at once. These are useful for flowering in the stove early in spring.

Euphorbia jacqulnlaeflora. — Place all the earliest-rooted plants
in the pots in which they are to flower, and when established gradually
harden them to cool frame treatment. Turn these plants to the sun,
so that the wood ripens as it is made. Insert cuttings either singly
or a number together. If the latter the cuttings should be placed
round the side of 5-inch pots, and if properly grown will not attain
more than 1 foot in height ; they will prove useful for various decorative
purposes. The old plants may be cut back and placed in warmth until
they break into growth, when repot. Do not overwater these plants.

Panlcum varlegatum. — When decorations have to be carried out
on a large scale well furnished plants in 5-inch pots are very useful.
Cuttings should be inserted thickly into such pots. They will root
freely in any moist shady house. They can be stood on the floor if no
more suitable position can be found them. Well developed plants in
baskets are very effective, especially when grown in warm houses and
suspended from the roof amongst Palms and other green foliaged plants.
Fittonias are also very useful, and should be extensively grown.

Polnsettlas. — These ought to be in cold frames aud grown fully
exposed to the sun. Those still in small pots repot from time to time as
they need more root room, using good loam, sand, and one-seventh of
decayed manure. Established plants may have a little artificial manure
applied to the surface or given clear soot water occasionally. Water
carefully, and syringe the foliage twice daily.

Tustlcla flavlcoma. — Few plants are more worthy of extended
cultivation in gardens than this old Justicia, especially for warm con¬
servatories and intermediate structures. Its cultivation is easy when
plants are raised annually from cuttings. The cuttings should be rooted
and grown for a time in heat, and when well established gradually
hardened and grown with Euphorbias and Poinsettias until September.

Caladlum argry rites. — Plants that have been used for decoration
and have become shabby should be rested and then again started into
growth, when they will be found useful. A supply of this useful foliage
plant in good condition for furnishing in occasional batches will be
found very useful.

20

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 6, 1893.

APIARIAN NOTES.

Preparing for the Moors.

Amongst my letters on the morning of the 26th, one from
Crawford stated “ The Wild Thyme is in its prime, owing to the
great heat and dry weather. The Heather has made long growths,
the yonng Heather is flowering, and in eight or ten days will be
well in bloom.” It will be observed that dry weather favours the
Heather, and this year it is about six weeks earlier than usual. The
Clover serson is only beginning with us, the Heather is ready, and
the highly prized Thyme will soon be past.

After a week’s rain and cooler weather a renewal of the high
temperature has taken place. A few days’ continuation will favour
the filling of supers but cause the hives to heat, which makes it very
risky for moving bees such long distances. The Heather and
the Thyme honey is the most valuable, so we must risk the
adventure. Our hives are in excellent condition for moving to the
Heather, being well ventilated from below a few days previous to
starting, then the supers uncovered a little or wholly at the top, the
lid of the super case or protector not being quite close permits the
heated atmosphere to pass off, and gives a slight current of air. As
the doorway is completely closed the bees do not make an effort
to escape. Hives so managed cannot with ordinary care get over¬
heated.

Punic Nuclei and Punic Queens.

I have formed a few nuclei of pure Punics, and intend taking
them to the Heather a week earlier than my entire stock, for the
purpose of making a trial whether they can be kept pure at that
place. Punic queens are so numerous that they are very service¬
able to supply stocks that may be queenless. My old Punic stock
has been divided and swarmed into seven, and it may swarm again.
It is surprising to see how active the srnallest of these swarms
work and gather honey. My old stock swarmed twice within an
hour, and both are doing well.

Mutilated Queens and Swarms.

One day lately I saw an enormous number of drones on the
ground, and on the alighting board a few bees were caressing
a spot where probably a queen had stood. A few days later a
similar thing occurred, and to my astonishment I saw an abnormally
lengthy queen enter the hive. It struck me that the queen being
unable to fly had crept to the ground, and then up on to the
landing board which touches the ground. As this queen is a
month old it is evident she was unable to fly.

To the bee-keeper there is nothing more tantalising than to
have several hives issuing at same time without the slightest
warning. Such a thing happened to me on the 26th. During a
bright blink of sunshine between drenching showers, no less than
six swarms commenced to come off at same time. Two were inter¬
cepted and three hived. One of the three, through either a stranger
queen or bees, returned to the parent hive. One swarm refused
to enter a hive. A heavy rain fell, which threatened the
destruction of every bee, as they were scattered about, but by-
and-by I managed to get them to take to a hive. On some future
occasion I will revert to the subject, as it is important beginners
should be well posted up in hiving swarms.

Preventing Bees Swarming.

“ B. B. H.” wishes to know something about preventing bees
swarming. There is no method of managing bees that will prevent
swarming at all times, nor perhaps at any period when circum¬
stances are favourable to it. A young queen with plenty of
breeding space is the surest of any. The plan mentioned on
page 512 last volume was not found out by Mr. Simmins, but has
been practised with the Stewarton hive for at least half a century,
contemporaneous with the two queens in one hive system. The
plan Mr. Simmins adopts I believe is this. The sections are placed
in the front of the hive where brood combs used to be put by him
to prevent swarming— /.e , the combs are parallel to the entrance,
and it is in the front of the hive or in advance of the brood nest
the sections are put, then when well begun they are lifted above.
The principle is identical to the way we manage our hives under the
Stewarton system, and is no doubt the best plan known to delay
or retard swarming when a young fertilised queen is not at hand.
We do not know whether the hive mentioned is adapted for the
purpose. The Lanarkshire hive is suitable for all places and all
modes of management. — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

•^•All correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor ” or to “ The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Books tor Examinations (il/. i?.). — You had better write to the
Secretary of the Royal Horticultural Society, 117, Victoria Street,
Westminster, S.W. The list first published by the Society was far from
perfect.

Grapes Scalded (J”. 6'.). — You should have sent sooner. The
night temperature has perhaps been too low, and the house not properly
ventilated sufficiently early in the morning. This is all we can say
this week.

Cymbldlum Seed (Yl J.). — With no more convenience than is
mentioned in your letter, we think the experiment of raising Cymbidiums
from seed is scarcely worth trying. Even were you successful in
germinating the seed, it would be many years before the plants flowered,
and then it is quite probable that the flowers may be of an inferior
type. It would be advisable to remove the seed pod at once if you
decide not to try the experiment.

Thula Hedge (^Grovv'). — No doubt the nurseryman is right in
respect to his particular plants. The smaller would be likely to grow
better, and make a screen sooner than the larger ones if these have stood
long in the nursery ground without being transplanted. In our
experience Thuia gigantea, often sold as T. Lobbi, makes a more pleasing
screen, and continues so over a greater length of time than does
T. occidentalis ; but tastes vary, and you may prefer the latter. The
leaf, a very fine one, 11x8 inches, is Hedera coriacea.

Preserving Hew Propagating Wood Trays (H. I.'). — Although
creosote is used for dipping Hop poles, by which process they are
rendered durable, we have no experience of it for cutting boxes, and
should be obliged by particulars of its use in preserving wood from
decay, both as to the strength and manner of application, whether
applied hot or cold, and when steeped, how long, also whether it is
likely to prove injurious to the cuttings or otherwise. We do not think
it would be, but assurance on the point is desirable.

Worms In Flower Pots (^Perj^lexecV), — Worms can be expelled
from flower pels with lime water made as advised to another corre¬
spondent under the heading of Chrysanthemums. The best plan,
however, is to prevent their getting in first by carefully examining
the soil before potting, then by using Porter’s invincible crocks as a
flooring in flower pots before placing in the ordinary drainage. These
are an effective barrier to worms, while allowing superfluous water to
pass away. Moreover, they are so cheap that a hundred can be had
for 3s.

Grapes and Maggot (.7. P. E.'). — The maggot you send is the larva
of a small moth, Tortrix angustiorana. You will have no difficulty in
seeing the moths as they flit about in the egg-laying season, on the
Vines being disturbed. Every one should be caught, also the maggots,
which let themselves down by a web when the Grapes are moved. We
have known this pest do much harm in '.puncturing ripe Grapes and
these communicating decay to others. The Tortrix is supposed to have
come from America, and has not been prevalent in this country very
many years.

Artificial Manure for Top-dressing Ctarysanttaemums and
Roses In Pots (^Constant Reader'). — 1, The mixture you name — three
parts bone superphosphate, two parts powdered saltpetre, and part
ground gypsum, mixed, and kept dry, is an excellent manure for Chrys¬
anthemums and Roses, also any plants requiring support and growing
in loam, or being of a free-rooting nature. It must not, however, be
used for delicate rooting plants, as Heaths and Azaleas, nor be given
excessively to any, but judiciously employed it is excellent. 2, Bone
superphosphate is generally sold at 7s. per cwt., the price being more for
less quantities, and less is charged for greater weights.

Gooseberry Eeaves and Fruit Damaged (F. I.). — The spray
is, barring the affected leaves and fruit, in excellent health, the wood
being stout and short-jointed, and the foliage thick. There is no disease,
but the whitish leaves have had their chlorophyll abstracted by some
insects, popularly termed red spider, which have been unusually prevalent
this season, and completely arrested the growth of the bushes in many
places during the diought. Probably the rain has washed off the

July 13, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

25

Though no plants are probably more easy to grow than
Tomatoes, none appear to give more trouble to many persons
who essay their cultivation. Notwithstanding all the information
that has been given in our columns from time to time by men
who have succeeded in growing the most satisfactory crops and
men who have failed detailing the cause of their failures and
eventually winning success ; and notwithstanding the replies that
have been given, we had almost said over and over again, in
our answers to correspondents’ columns, on almost every con¬
ceivable point in connection with Tomato culture, Tomato
diseases. Tomato prices, further inquiries, perplexities, disappoint¬
ments, regrets, challenges relative to the soundness or otherwise
of advise that has been given, come pouring in. All this betokens
wide interest in Tomato culture, and we are g’ad that it is so ;
but we are not exuberantly delighted when we find among our
correspondents a select few who, after all that is done to help
them, disposed to question almost every statement, and express
regret that some other information was not given them, or
different steps taken in dealing with a case, or cases, imperfectly
presented.

Tomato culture is a question of common sense. It cannot be
successfully conducted by a course of elaborate argument founded
on fanciful theories deduced from conflicting results that have
been observed under varying conditions, the significance of which
can rarely be appreciated by inexperienced people. Than assisting
those who have not been taught in the school of practice, and
giving hints of guidance that may be helpful to them, we feel
nothing more pleasurable. It is work in which, after years of
experience in it, we do not grow weary ; but we have a right to
expect that the advice we take pains to give shall be followed
intelligently and perseveringly, as in no other way can its sound¬
ness be tested and benefit derived from it. This, we have good
reason to believe, is the practice of at the least 90 per cent, of
seekers for information. Not a few have found the advantage of
their own efforts in that direction, and a very substantial advantage
it has been to many ; but there is a residuum. There always is in
every body of individuals who have a common object in view, who
do not appear to be able to accept plain teaching, and turn it to
practical account. They prefer, like a certain Handy Andy of old,
to argue the point.

We may tell an inquirer that the night temperature of his
Tomato house has been kept too low by the want of a little warmth
in the water pipes, and he retorts by saying that so-and-so has no
means of heating the house in which he grows healthy plants free
from the disease and obtains good crops of fruit. Evidently he
assumes the low night temperature theory is all fudge. We may
inform another (juerist that he errs in his method of ventilation,
and forces his plants too rapidly into growth when young ; that he
ought to strive for firmer growth, employ less moisture, and pro¬
vide more air. Such advice does not quite fall in with his views,
because he has been told his plants have had too much air. A third
does not seem able to move a finger in checking disease till he learns
not only the generic but the precise specific name of the attacking
fungus ; yet he is told of measures that if promptly resorted to
and properly carried out will arrest the spread of all fungi. He
sends an apology for a Tomato leaf which arrives like tinder

No. 681.— Von, XXVII., Third Sehies.

through its enclosure in a letter and the paper abstracting from it
what little moisture it contained when plucked from the plant. He
is asked to send fresh specimens, so packed that they may arrive
in a fresh state. He then plucks two small leaflets, throws
them into a box that would hold fifty such like, without anything
to keep them fresh and firm, never thinking that by the shaking
they receive in the post in their dry enclosure and a “roasting*^
temperature, that they arrive much in the same state as if they
had been carefully pressed round a heated curling iron. He is toll
the nature of the disease and how to proceed ; but that is not
enough, and he must have the exact name, sending at last a sample
encased in a Cabbage leaf. This sample arrives fresh with the
fungus all alive, and is identified at a glance.

In consequence of the thoughtlessness of the sender in that
case and nothing else, and his want of the “ name ” of the foe,
it has been afforded an excellent opportunity to establish itself,
and has done so, for the last leaflet received was worse than the
first. Yet the steps to take in dealing with such attacks were
plainly and fully given a fortnight previously. That is a case of
grasping after a shadow and losing the substance, or a resort to
pedantic rather than common sense methods in the emergency.
There may be yet time to save the plants, and we strongly hope
the enemy will be conquered ; but whatever of failure ensues will
be through the mistake of the owner and no one else, though we
may expect he will be the last to admit it ; but the fact does not
permit of argument.

We are as pleased to acquire information from experienced
correspondents as we are to impart it to the inexperienced ; but
when the latter rise superior in their knowledge to men who have
won success through many long years of labour, study, and
observation, we have to place ourselves on their side, and not
silently permit their teaching to be questioned and controvened
by dialecticians, who, by lack of cultural knowledge, are apt te
base their arguments on false premises, and do so base them.

Because Tomatoes are healthy and free from disease in glass
structures, in which there is no means for supplying artificial heat,
that is no argument that the fungoid disease will not attack the
plants that have been grown with the aid of artificial heat, and this
withdrawn to save fuel. There is no analogy between the two
cases. We know of Tomatoes as healthy as plants can be, and
ripening excellent fruit in elevated Pearson’s frames that can only
be heated by the sun. The plants were sturdy and strong,
requiring no stakes to support them when planted from 5-inch pots,
nor for some time afterwards. They were planted in fresh loam.,
not rich, but very firm. They were not watered daily, nor bi-daily,
often not more than once a week, on a bright morning, sufficicnl
air being given so that the surface of the soil became perfectly dry
before night. Failing this it was dusted with dry soil. On coM
clear nights the glass was covered to prevent too great a disparity
between the night and day temperature. With the comparative
absence of moisture in the frame, and the leaves not unduly
cooled, there was no appreciable deposition of dew on them.
They have never been syringed. The stems are short-jointed
and firm, the leaves not particularly large, but remarkably
thick and rustle like parchment. The plants produced a mass
of flowers, clouds of pollen, and are now laden with fruit.
There is not a speck of disease on them. They are in a condition
to repel rather than favour parasitic growths. They are fully
ventilated in the day, moderately at night, air being increased very
soon after the sun reaches the frame at 5 a m. So long as there is
no Potato disease about, nor Tomatoes affected with either th«
Phythopthora and Cladiosporium fungi in gardens near, the system
of ventilation will be pursued, always in accordance with the
weather ; but should those fungi appear anywhere near outside
the Tomato frame this would be kept closed entirely at night and
practically in the daytime to exclude the fungus spores, and the
later fruits would ripen well. It is surprising the heat that

No. 2337.— Yol. LXXXIX., Old Series.

24

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 13, 1893.

Tomatoes will endure, and the drought they will resist. They are
all right in a close dry air, like a desert, but would soon be a mass
of decay if kept close and moist.

Contrast the plants alluded to with others grown in a heated
house, watered probably too often, syringed, it may be, too fre¬
quently. A night temperature of about 60° has been provided,
and a genial atmosphere maintained to “ encourage ” growth and
obtain early fruit. The soil in many such cases is too much in
bulk, too rich, and too lightly put together. The growth of the
plants is succulent rather than firm ; the stems rather long than
short-jointed ; the leaves large but thin and soft in texture.
Space is covered freely ; the days are hot, and a few nights warm.
Then the thought arises of saving a shilling or two by ceasing
firing. The pipes get stone cold, there is a sudden fall in the night
temperature outside, and of course in. The house has been
sprinkled, and there is consequently moisture in the atmosphere
which condenses on the colder leaves, and if there are fungus
spores about they find the precise conditions for germination, both
as regards moisture, leaf texture, and temperature. In a warmer,
drier atmosphere there would have been no moisture on the leaves
for the tailed zoospores to float in — the real communicators of
disease — and the plants would remain healthy. They are first
made tender with fire heat, this is withdrawn, and they are then
made vulnerable to the disease ; the historic “ ’haporth o’ tar ” is
saved, but the ship — the Tomato crop — jeopardised.

That Tomatoes like abundance of air is evident by the sturdy,
healthy growth of plants now ripening excellent fruit in the open
air ; also in frames with the sashes drawn otf most of the time. But
that is because the air has been dry and days warm and bright.
Had the weather been close and wet with a murky atmosphere the
fungoid enemy would probably have taken possession of them. In
large, airy, heated houses the right conditions can be maintained.
The chief requirements are a free circulation of air, but please
mark well — it must be warm, dry, or dryish air, not chilling
currents, while a close moisture-laden atmosphere is a forerunner
of diseased plants. Dry heat on the other hand is inimical to
fungoid growths on the plants, as many large growers have found
who provide them with a temperature of 80°-90° over three or
four days and nights. Bordeaux mixture and other preparations,
which have been repeatedly named, will if applied in time be of
enormous benefit ; but it should be remembered that they are
preventive rather than curative. This has been said at the least
a hundred times, and will perhaps have to be said a hundred more,
before the fact takes possession of the minds of all Tomato
growers. We should like to reduce their difficulties and ours too.

SHADING FRUIT HOUSES.

It has long been an established belief with many fruit growers
that shading under almost any circumstances is inimical to the
well-being of fruit trees, whether they are grown under glass or in
the open air. They are, moreover, inclined to look with a com¬
bination of mystery and contempt upon the cultivator who
advocates and practises giving shade to Tines or Peach trees,
except in the case of newly planted ones or those carrying a crop
of ripe fruit, these being exceptions in which shading is generally
acknowledged to be beneficial. That harm may be done by over¬
shading I do not deny, but between this and the other extreme of
not shading at all there are instances innumerable in which shade
when judiciously given is productive of superior results, which
under similar circumstances in other respects could not be obtained
without its aid.

It might be advanced that I have chosen an exceptional season
during which to bring this matter forward, but in my opinion
there are times in the majority of summers when fruit houses may
with advantage be shaded, although perhaps it may be only in hot
seasons that converts to the practice are so readily made. Red
spider is at present unusually rampant in houses which during
ordinary seasons are entirely free from it, and I am fully convinced
that where such is the case a much more satisfactory state of
affairs might have been maintained had timely shade been given, for
it frequently happens that during a long fight against drought

Vines and fruit trees do not get enough moisture at the roots
or in the atmosphere. Shade, by lessening evaporation, would have
done away with the necessity for so much water. The supply
given being, therefore, more proportionate to their requirements
would have maintained the trees in a healthier condition, in which
state they do not easily fall a prey to the attack of insects.

In determining whether or not the practice of shading fruit
houses at certain times is a good one, we must bear in mind
the great diversity in the size, situation, and construction of the
innumerable houses in use for fruit growing throughout the
country. Some of these being small, imperfectly ventilated, and
situated in very warm positions are veritable sun traps, in which
during a season like the present it is almost impossible to keep
either plants or fruit trees healthy without resorting to shade. In
such instances the Tines or fruit trees growing in them should be
shaded by the time the growth of the fruit stops temporarily till
the stoning process is completed. A little whitening strained through
a fine wire sieve mixed in water, and syringed evenly over the
roof, effects the object in view. Light houses, the framework of
which is iron or other metal, ought also to be similarly treated,
for however large they may be, the materials used in their con¬
struction being such great conductors of heat as well as cold,
render very strong sunlight too powerful for vegetation growing
inside them, especially if trained near the roof. Houses of all
descriptions are now built much lighter than formerly, and for this
reason alone it is absolutely necessary to provide shade for many
plants, which under more antiquated conditions did not require it.

Thus far I have dealt with the management of houses requiring
special treatment in the matter of shading, and I wish it to be
distinctly understood that I do not advocate the indiscriminate
shading of all fruit houses at the stage above indicated, though in
nearly all instances a little shade later on is beneficial should the
weather prove hot. The exact stage at which I consider this
should be given I will endeavour to describe. Black Hamburgh
Grapes colour best when direct sunshine does not reach the bunches
during the latter part of the afternoon. I have always experienced
the least difficulty in colouring them perfectly where the aspect
has been an east one. When dealing with a house principally
occupied by this variety, and having a southern aspect, I always
give a light shade after colouring has fairly begun all over the
house provided the weather is bright at the time, and I am con¬
vinced the practice does much toward securing good colour and
bloom. With a house having a west aspect the practice is quite, as
necessary, for the sun generally comes upon such a house suddenly,
and with full force near the middle of the day. The rapid change
thus brought about is not conducive to good colour in the fruit.
Madresfield Court will colour under bright sunshine better than
any black variety I know, but even this should be shaded when
fully ripe, or the colour will not be retained. If Muscats are
trained from 2 to 3 feet from the glass, shading will not be required
till the fruit is ripe to prevent shrivelling, but in many instances
the rods are unfortunately not more than 15 or 18 inches from it,
often a less distance than that. Under these conditions during hot
weather the leaves cannot properly perform their functions. In
such cases a light shade when the colouring process is somewhat
advanced is of great benefit in preserving the foliage in a healthy
state, a few of the main leaves immediately over the best bunches
being afterwards tied back to allow the fruit to get plenty of sub¬
dued light.

Turning to Peaches and Nectarines I find the former will bear
sunshine with impunity much better than the latter, and it is only
when trained very near the glass in particularly hot positions, or
very small houses, that shading is required till the fruit commences
ripening. If it is necessary to retard this a canvas shade should
be given. If only to prevent the fruit drying by sunshine,
whitening applied with a syringe will answer admirably. Nectarines
require more careful treatment, especially such varieties as Lord
Napier, Pineapple, or Tictoria ; these become much disfigured,
and frequently burnt, when disposed near the glass unless shading
is resorted to shortly after colouring begins.

Intimately connected with the question of shading is that of
training the shoots of Tines and fruit trees at a reasonable distance
from the glass, and until the advantage of the latter practice
is more fully recognised shading during hot weather becomes
imperative if the best results are to be obtained. — D. W.

INSECTS OF THE FLOWER GARDEN.

(^Continued, from page 476, last vol.')

The dry spring and summer of this season have had very re¬
markable effects upon animal as well as on vegetable life. I have
observed that among the spiders many have made more rapid
progress towards maturity than is usual ; this may be because the

July 13, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

25

continued warm weather has hastened on those frequent changes
of skin through which these insects pass, or perhaps their food has
been extra abundant, the development of numerous species having
been earlier from the cause just mentioned. Along the lanes in
some parts of England the profusion of spider webs on the banks
has been noticeable, these appearing very conspicuous. Owing to the
dryness of the herbage, also from the absence of rain, the spiders
have not had to expend silk in the manufacture of new webs, so
have used the material to strengthen the old ones.

About gardens spiders have been plentiful, but in these they
meet with molestation, if they escape with life, few people being
of Mr. A. Murray’s opinion, that “ spiders are the most powerful
insect friends of mankind.” Obviously, in the case of the web
makers, those that furnish food to the spiders are only a per¬
centage of the insects that are snared and killed ; and in the
group of hunters, though the species are less destructive, each
victim being a separate seizure, they are abundant and very
active. I find it is a common supposition that spiders are blind,
but they have from two to eight simple eyes, though in securing
their prey they seem to be principally guided by the sense of
touch, and not sight. A proof that they do see is the excite¬
ment they may be noticed to manifest when a party of social
flies are passing their webs. By sight, too, evidently a spider
decides concerning some insects it may capture in its web but does
not choose to meddle with, and therefore ejects by cutting the
cords round them, or else leaves them alone. It is not at all
uncommon in the garden to see an unlucky earwig struggling in some
spider’s web, and we should be grateful to the insect if it helped to
diminish the numbers of this foe to choice flowers ; but usually
spiders refuse to touch earwigs. Apparently the forceps at the
tail of an earwig, which has no power as a weapon, and serves to
adjust or fold the wings, is regarded by a spider with alarm.

Many caterpillars fall by accident, or are blown, into spiders’
webs ; some of these are not to the taste of a spider, and so
they are left to escape if they can ; some are secured, and after¬
wards sucked. It is amusing to see a spider’s surprise when it has
in its web one of the leaf-rolling caterpillars that may have
dropped from some Rose. The spider turns it round and round in
silk, hoping to secure it ; but the captive objects to the operation,
and unrolls itself speedily, having plenty of muscular force, till
the matter is ended by some punctures from the spider’s fangs.
Hunting or wandering spiders are seldom killed by gardeners,
except accidentally. The web-makers are not unfrequently
destroyed with their webs ; we must sometimes remove these, but
if we gave the worker a chance of escape it might spin another
web in a spot where it would kill insects without annoying us.

I have already referred to the conspicuous and regularly formed
webs of the spiders which are well known in our gardens, and by
which hosts of insects are captured to our benefit. Yery different
webs are formed by other spiders ; that of Ciniflo ferox and its
relatives, for instance, is so irregular and ragged that it looks like
an old or waste web. But it serves as a snare, and is indeed very
sticky, taking many small insects, though it appears open. One
thing is that some of the threads are fine and scarcely noticed by
the eye ; under the microscope they are beautiful in form, also
having a bluish tint. Then there is the spider often called daddylong¬
legs, though the name is also given to the crane fly. This occurs
both in and out of doors. The web is placed on walls or palings
in gardens ; it is loose and net-like. The maker, in science called
Pholcus phalangoides, frequently wanders far from its web. The
pale body, which is slightly marked, is long ; the legs much longer,
with knee-joints curiously thickened.

In the genus Therideon, where the rounded abdomen of the
spider overhangs the thorax, the snares that are made are very
irregular fine threads running in various directions over the tops of
plants or the sides of bushes. Occasionally we notice about the
flower garden the cocoons made by this genus for the protection
of their eggs. A familiar one is that of T. pallens, a little brown-
and-white spider, which puts its cocoon on the under side of some
leaf. This few would connect with the spider ; it is a Pear-shaped
object of a glossy white, and has several points projecting from
its surface. Another species, T. lineatum, which has black lines on
its greenish body, secures its cocoons from peril by doubling over
the leaf on which it is placed. This cocoon is round, and blue or
bluish green. A species rather uncommon makes in gardens a tent¬
like nest, about 2 inches long, close to the irregular web. It is
generally not far from the ground, and the spider called T. riparium
roofs it to keep out the rain, covering the top of this nest with
fragments of earth or bits of leaves and flowers. The eggs are
enclosed in a slight covering of silk as well. What is more remark¬
able in this spider’s history is that she feeds her progeny for some
time, and they live amicably together ; the food is chiefly ants, it is
stated, which she catches on the soil or on twigs. A Therideon
that is abundant about gardens in South Europe is much favoured

by growers of Grapes, because they think that its filmy webs
extended over the Vines keep away some insects from the ripening
fruit. There is a larger species, brown in colour, mottled with
black, that is found in many conservatories, and which is supposed
to be of foreign parentage, having been imported with plants. A
species allied to the preceding constructs amongst masses of foliage
in gardens and shrubberies a web, which appears large as compared
with the size of the spider, Linyphia montana, which, though
small, is active and ravenous ; it is greyish brown, or sometimes
blackish. The snare it constructs is a fine horizontal sheet, over
this are suspended numerous lines crossing each other, and some
helping to secure the web. Insects that might escape this strike
against these upper lines, and falling are seized by the vigilant
spider below.

Prominent amongst the hunting spiders are those of the genus
Thomasus, mostly garbed in showy tints of black, yellow, green,
and red. They are decidedly crab-like, having broad bodies, and
long, powerful fore legs ; some of them that chase their prey can
move either forwards, backwards, or sideways with great rapidity.
Others have a habit of lurking in crevices, or under little stones in
the soil. The common wolf -spider (Lycosa saccata) has its Latin
name from the bag of eggs which the female is often seen dragging
about. This is a wandering spider, allied to the famous tarentula
of Italy. Some hunting spiders leap upon their victims. Salticus
scenicus is one of these, frequent upon the leaves of garden plants ;
it destroys many flies. We know it by the grey ground and white
bars, also by its habit of jerking out a thread when it springs. —
Entomologist.

STRAWBERRIES IN HAMPSHIRE.

In spite of the great heat and drought experienced some market
growers consider this to be a good season for Strawberries. There may
not have been such a quantity of fruit as in some seasons, but the
prices have ruled fairly high throughout. The Strawberry crop in this
neighbourhood was an early one. Picking commenced May 14th with
some growers as compared with the first week in June in past seasons.
The best price realised that I can hear of was 5s. 6d. per gallon of about
51 lbs., or Is. per lb. By June 8th the price had dropped to 23. Gd. per
gallon, a little later to Is. the gallon ; even at this price the crop is
remunerative.

Strawberry growing for market in this part of the county is un¬
doubtedly on the increase. Within a radius of five miles from Botley
there cannot be less than 400 acres under cultivation, ranging in plots
from a quarter to five acres. From Botley Station the bulk of the fruit
used to be sent, but since the opening of the line from Fareham to Netley
much of the fruit is despatched from Swan wick, a small station on that
line. The output from this station alone was from 30 to 40 tons per
week, as many as 50 tons going away in one week. The punnet and
box are now superseded by cross-handled baskets holding one gallon
each, as many as from 15,000 to 16,000 leaving the station named in
one day. So much has this method of despatching the fruit come into
vogue that the railway company have specially fitted vans with tiers
of shelves for the reception of these baskets. The simplicity of these
baskets is all in their favour ; no packing material \vhatever is needed,
the fruit is picked direct into them, a sheet of white paper is fastened
securely over the fruit by tying it to the basket rim. The fruit is
picked before it is dead ripe and therefore does not suffer in transit, but
any barely ripe at the time of gathering becomes thoroughly so during
the long railway journey to the midland and northern towns. Some
growers who send their fruit to the local towns of Portsmouth, South¬
ampton, and Winchester pack in square light deal boxes holding a
gallon ; these being made of the same size, are easily stowed away tier
upon tier in spring carts and vans without any packing material what¬
ever. Some, however, lay a single frond of the common Bracken on
the top of each box, which has a tendency to keep the fruit cool, but as
the journey by road is done during the night or very early in the morn¬
ing the fruit does not suffer from the effects of the hot sun. Much of the
picking is done in the early morning, therefore is in a better state for
travelling than when gathered during the daytime.

In a season like the present the quantity and quality of fruit vary
according to the soil in which the plants are grown. In one garden,
where the subsoil is clay, the top soil is heavy loam, the situation being
low, the yield of fruit has been a heavy one. Several row’s of plants
(five years old, 18 feet long) gave one gallon of fruit each at one picking,
averaging 2s. 6d. the gallon, which cannot be regarded other than a
remunerative crop. From the same garden 100 gallons were gath^ed
at one picking, and sold at the price quoted, this quantity being taken
from less than a quarter of an acre. This w’as the best picking from
that plot, many more of less quantity being gathered frotn the same
plot. These few figures tend to show the remunerative character of
Strawberry growing when carried out on proper lines. The same garden
of If acre in the Jubilee year yielded £3 worth of hay, which cost 30s.
to make ; it was then under grass. By degrees the whole of it has been
broken up and planted mainly with Strawberries, which more than
once since that year have given the occupier a net gain of ^100.

As to varieties, but few are grown by the market men. Sir Joseph
Paxton is the sheet anchor of the whole district. This sort is the best
for either a wet or a dry season, grows freely and crops heavily, and is

26

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 13, 1893.

decidedly better ia flavour than is supposed to be the case when
thoroughly ripened. Some plants of Noble are grown, but this variety
does not meet with much favour. Instead of its being earlier in ripening
it was this year behind the old favourite. A variety rather highly
spoken of for its earliness is Eleanor.* Locally it is named Melton and
Garnier’s. It crops heavily and comes in quickly, but travels badly and
soon decays after being gathered. Lucas is a favourite with some for its
large size, but is looked upon as being “ soft.” Perhaps the earliest sort
of all is Princess Frederick William, but owing to its extremely small
fruit but few plants are grown, Alice Maud is much liked by some
growers for the earliest pickings.

Strawberries in pots are found to pay by some with one or two small
houses. Those that get the fruit ripe by the Ist of April realise Ss,
per lb. Noble is highly spoken of for this purpose, owing to its free
setting qualities. Sir Joseph Paxton, however, is preferred for its
flavour. The plants are afterwards sold for putting out in the
quarters ; they give a full crop of fruit the following year, the price
obtained _ being about 4s. per 100 plants.— E. Molyneux, Swanmore
JParlt, Bishops Waltham,

[* Eleanor is a large late Arm Strawberry. — Ed ]

BORDER CARNATIONS AT CHELSEA.

Most lovers of border Carnations in the neighbourhood of London
like to inspect the collection in the nursery of Messrs. Veitch & Sons at
Chelsea, for a representative display of new and select varieties is always
to be found there. It would be too much to expect that in such a
parching season as the present the plants would be as vigorous and
luxuriant as in former years. They have suffered, like everything else,
from the drought, notwithstanding that the beds were carefully re-made,
strong plants put out, and mulching resorted to. Moreover, the flowers
have lost colour very rapidly in the fierce sun glare. “ Here to-day and
f one to-morrow ” has been the rule. Considering the disadvantages
ander w'hich the plants have had to fight the bloom is surprisingly good,
few varieties being completely out of character, though not a few are
undersized.

One of the most beautiful and promising of the novelties is Border
Maid, a dwarf grower and very free bloomer. The centre of the flower
is deep rose, the margins of the petals much paler. Few varieties have
a more pleasing appearance, and, what is little less desirable, the flowers
are very sweet. That it will become very popular as a general border
and cut flower variety there can be no doubt, and it is quite within the
bounds of probability that it will also become a favourite as a winter
sort. Some plants in pots are noteworthy for neat habit and freedom of
blooming. Near it at Chelsea are a quartette of good older varieties —
Magnum Bonum, scarlet ; W. P. Milner, white ; Alice Ayres, white
with carmine flakes ; and Celia, rose, all of which have good qualities
to recommend them. W. P, Milner has hardly so good a flower as Mrs.
Frank Watts, but it blooms more freely, and for cutting purposes is
therefore quite as desirable. It is gratifying to notice how profusely
the delightful Alice Ayres is producing its flowers under difficulties. A
dark Fancy named Lord Beaconsfield is quite likely to win a good deal
of admiration, and so is a purple self sport from it called William Tovey,
which has a good flower and blooms freely.

The bizarres, flakes, and Picotees are too numerous for all to be
referred to under name, and moreover most of them are well known ;
it will suffice to say that a complete collection of the best varieties is
open to inspection. But there are many seifs and Fancies besides those
already named which are worth a special reference. Beauty of Foxhall
is one. It has a good flower, of which the colour is purple, is a capital
doer, and an excellent winter bloomer. Lothair is another fine sort.
The flowers are of a soft blush hue, at first showing a core, but sub¬
sequently developing admirable character and form. Brilliant is now
pretty well known, and is very difficult to excel in colour. Germania,
too, is so familiar as to need no description, but there is a lemon-coloured
seedling from it of beautiful form and quality, besides being a good doer.
Rose Celestial is another of the time-tried sorts which have won lasting
popularity, and in the same category may be classed the lovely Fancy
Almira and Mrs. Reynolds Hole. Winter Cheer is even more sought
after than this trio. A grander Carnation was perhaps never seen out,
for it is as good out of doors in summer as it is in pots in winter. The
large array of rose-coloured sorts is supplemented by Dr. Parker, an
excellent variety for cutting ; and Grant Allen, which blossoms up the
stem very much like Alice Ayres, and possesses splendid colour.

The Picotee Carl Schurz, w'hite with broad purple margin, has
meritorious qualities, and so has the self Cantab, which might be classed
.■»9 a scarlet Clove, possessing a full rich Clove perfume. It was raised
by Gifford, and another of his seedlings is Sultan, a fine crimson variety.
A third from the same raiser is Maggie Lawie, a free, beautiful, and
very fragrant variety of the familiar Miss Joliffe colour. It ought to
become a great favourite. Florence, buff, very free ; Crimson Pet,
which possesses an excellent bloom ; and Empress, white with a stout
smooth petal, all win admiration, and at least as much falls to the share
of a Fancy emanating from Guernsey, and called The Lady. It is
yellow with a deep crimson suffusion, and blossoms in sheaf-like pro¬
fusion. A pair of excellent varieties originating with Turner are Ruby
and Queen of Bedders. The former is noteworthy for its brilliant colour
and splendid petal, the latter for dwarf habit, free blooming, and bright
shade of rosy red. Cara Roma is a good purple, having rich colour and
fine shape.

The season is not only earlier but will certainly be much shorter than

usual this year. Should the maggot supplement the effects of the
drought by extra vigour, 1893 will be a year which Carnation lovers will
not look back to with unmixed pleasure.

SCORCHED LEAVES IN VINERIES.

In’ this neighbourhood I have heard complaints of Vine leaves being
scorched by the excessive sunheat. Not even during the Jubilee year
was the sun so powerful as upon June 17th and the two following days.
I do not allude to the scorching of the leaves in vineries caused by
neglect in airing the house properly. Scorching perhaps takes place
between the hours of twelve and two, and when sufficient air is admitted
for all ordinary circumstances.

Several reasons are advanced as to the burning of the leaves, but in
my opinion in nine cases out of ten the right theory is not hit upon.
I allude to the question of dryness at the roots of the Vines, and if this
occurs scorching of the leaves will take place if every ventilator is wide
open. When the roots are devoid of a sufficiency of moisture the foliage
is robbed of its enduring power, rendered flabby, weak in tissue matter,
and susceptible to the power of the sun. Very often the glass is blamed
for the injury caused ; it is said to be full of blisters or defects caused
in the process of blowing, but it is strange these spots have not been
found before when probably the vinery has been in existence twenty
or more years. Experienced persons know that where any defective
spots are present in the glass they hav» damaging effect upon the foliage,
and the usual plan of dealing with these is to smear them over with
white paint.

Varieties differ in their susceptibility to scorching. Perhaps Muscat
of Alexandria is the most liable to be injured, Madresfield Court
following, and then Mrs. Pince. Black Hamburgh is the least sus¬
ceptible of any to this foliage defect. The varieties named possess
slender leafstalks, more so than any other sort that I am acquainted
with. This fact may have some bearing on the cause of why these
slightly built leaf-stemmed kinds are more liable than those with stout
leafstalks to scorching. Very often the damage done is owing to the
outside border being covered during the winter, thus no rain can get
near enough to it, and by the time the hot days of June come round
the soil in the border is very dry in seasons like the present. Where
the soil is light in character and the border raised well above the sur¬
rounding surface it is surprising what a quantity of water Vines will
absorb, even when in an outside border.

The best way to prevent scorching of the leaves if the border is in
want of water, whether it be an inside or an outside one, is to slightly
shade the glass outside by aid of liquid whitening syringed on. This
has the effect of providing a slight shade, and is easily taken off after a
day or two after the border has been well soaked. Of course a careful
cultivator who has water at hand will never allow the Vines to suffer
at the roots, but water in sufficient quantity is not available everywhere
this season. I know a garden at the present time not far from here
where every drop of water has to be carted over a mile. The person in
charge cannot very well be blamed if a few Vine leaves should be
scorched under such conditions. — S. P. H.

NIGHT-BLOOMING CEREUS.

May I, through the pages of your Journal, thank Mr. G. W. Cummins
(page 6) for his kindly correction of my error as to the name of the second
variety of Night-blooming Cereus that was formerly in the collection of
my father, the late Mr. C. M. Major? Having referred to the references
he gave I am quite satisfied that it must have been C. Macdonaldim and
not C. nycticalus, as I was previously inclined to think. I have also
no doubt now that the variety we lost must have been C. Maynardi. —
Maek B. F. Major.

I AM not responsible for about four lines in the note that appeared
in the Journal last week (page 6) — viz., “ The variety referred to
(C. Macdonaldiae) is the result of a cross between C. grandiflorus and

C. speciosissimus . It was raised by Mr. Kenny, gardener to

Viscount Maynard, Easton Lodge, Dunmow.” According to the Journal
for June 19th, 1884, this belongs to the history of C. grandiflorus
Maynardi, and C. Macdonaldiae is described as a species introduced from
Honduras to Kew by Mrs. General Macdonald, and first flowered in the
Royal Gardens in 1851. — G. W. CtJMMixs.

[The accidental omission of the specific names supplied by our
correspondent led to the error, which we thank him for correcting.]

I HAVE been much interested in the articles respecting the Night¬
flowering Cereus, and a few particulars of some plants I have here
might be useful. I have four Cereus nycticalus which have opened
as many as 111 blooms in one night. The largest plant opened fifty-
four blooms on June 19th, and fifty-five on Saturday, July Ist. On
several intervening nights there were from three to twelve flowers,
and there are several yet to open. I measured one bloom on Saturday,
July 1st. It was 9| inches diameter; but, unlike Mr. Major’s plant,
mine has white petals. I have one plant of C. hexagonus, which
has opened fifty-six blooms this year, and has ninety more to expand.
I have not seen more than eight open at once. They remain open until
about ten o’clock the following day. The plant is 30 feet high, has
two side branches about half-way up 8 feet long. The flowers are
the same in colour as C. nycticalus, but smaller. — A. Parrott, Crymlyn
Burroivs, Swansea,

July 13, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

27

Cypripedidm volonteanum giganteum.

Compared with the typical form of C. volonteanum the abo^ve
is a decided improvement both as regards size and colour, and it is
no wonder that the Orchid Committee of the Royal Horticultural
Society deemed it worthy of an award of merit when exhibited at
the Temple Show by Messrs. Hugh Low & Co,, Clapton. The
plant shown bore but one flower, but that was sufficient to indicate
its distinctive character, which is pourtrayed in the illustration
(fig. 4). The dorsal sepal is large, of a pea-green colour, the petals
also being pea green in the middle, and covered with brown spots,
margined light rosy purple. The lip is dark green shaded purple.

New Cypripediums.

Of more than 500 plants of Cypripedium Chamberlainiannm
which I have seen, says a writer in the “ Garden and Forest,” the
variety magnificum is the finest and largest both in foliage and
flower. The plant measures 2 feet 4 inches
across, and the leaves, which are faintly tes¬
sellated, are 3 inches broad. The polyflorous
scape is pubescent ; the flowers are borne
one at a time, and each one measures over
4 inches across the petals. The dorsal sepal
is IJ inch across, pale green, shading to
primrose yellow on the margin, with ten
dark brown rays, and pilose on the reverse
side. The inferior sepal is pale green with
brown rays. The petals are pale apple-green,
with rows of brown purple dots, and are
twisted in a reverse direction. The lip is
2 inches long, crimson, with the infolded
lobes, base and the border of the aperture
a pale yellow, the whole specked with car¬
mine. The staminode is a deep glossy green.

The plant of C. Germinyanum aureum
resembles the type, but the flowers are
larger ; the dorsal sepal an umber brown,
bordered with dull orange ; petals vinous
purple on the superior half, and dull orange
on the inferior half, dotted with red near
the base ; the lip a sombre orange, dotted
inside with brown, the staminode yellow.

American Methods.

Our cousins are ahead of us. One of
them, according to the “ American Florist,”
appears to have been interviewing Mr. F.

Sander by telephone on his visit to the World’s
Fair. Asked if he thought Orchids had a
future as commercial flowers in America,

Mr. Sander replied : ‘‘Perfectly sure of it.

The demand doubles itself every year for
cut flower purposes. The Orchid is the real
elite of the flower kingdom. The Rose comes
next. First of all the Orchid is very quaint
and extraordinary in form aad shape ; then you have in them

all the colours of the rainbow ; many are very sweet scented,

and above all there is no flower of such lasting quality as the
Orchid. If you don’t want to cut it to-day you can cut it
to-morrow or a month hence. That is not so with other flowers ;
the Rose must be cut at once. Orchids are often kept a month

in water. There are some exceptions, but with nearly all this

is true. Take for instance Cymbidium Lowianum. I have known
it to last on the plant for three months, and cut for eight weeks.
The love for Orphids has simply grown with education and wealth,
and so it will grow from year to year, and as the supply of Orchids
gets less so prices will advance from year to year.”

“ Then you believe that the time is coming when these plants
will become scarce ? ”

“ I am quite sure of it. Every ounce of silver taken out of a
mine must make one ounce of silver less, and every Orchid out ot
the woods one less, and as they are slow growing and the competi¬
tion is now very great in importing, the only pity is that soon the
supply will not be big enough. Seedling growing is now beginning,
but they can never be produced to the extent needed. I am quite
sure that what I say is true, and you will find as the years roll on
that I’m right.”

“ What are the most fashionable varieties in England at the
present time ? ”

“ Cattleyas and Odontoglossums are always fashionable. Through
nearly every Orchid there is a trace of magenta, and they are very
brilliant at night. Trianaes come out great at night, so does
Phalasnopsis Schilleriana. In England old gold colours in Orchids
are very much in fashion now, such as Oncidium prgetextum,
0. Forbesi, and O. crispum. We never have enough of them, and
the rage is spreading all over the world, in France particularly. It
is nothing unusual for ten dollars to be paid for a single spike of
Oncidium curtum. For a succession of bloom take the old Cattleya
labiata, which comes in October and November up to Christmas ;
at Christmas Cattleya Percivalliana, which is followed later on by
Trianse and Mendelli. These are not expensive varieties, and the
first year they will produce bloom enough to pay for the plants.”

WASPS AND CYANIDE OF POTASSIUM.

I HAVE used cyanide of potassium since 1883 or 1884 for destroying
wasps’ nests built in the ground, and always successfully. My method
is to take an old piece of sponge or flannel and wring it out with plain
water, then let it absorb as much as possible of a saturated solution of the
cyanide. It is then put, with a long stick, well into the hole, and left
till evening, when a piece of turf should be placed over the hole. With

FIG. 4. — CYPRIPEDIUM VOLONTEANUM GIGANTEUM.

a very strong nest it is necessary to dig up the comb the following day,
as the fumes of the cyanide do not affect the grubs.

The greatest care must be taken in using this chemical, as about half
a grain is a poisonous dose, and the poison is equally active whether
swallowed or taken in through broken skin. The fumes which are
given off are dangerous to human beings. To be quite safe, after using
the cyanide, wash the hands with a strong solution of sulphate of iron,
and then with soap and water. — J. Cockburn.

Wasps are unusually numerous here this year, and the nests are
easily destroyed by pouring a small teacupful of turpentine in the hole
at night, pressing a foot on to close the hole. It will effectually kill
every wasp and grub, and there is no danger of accidental poisoning.
Cyanide of potassium is dangerous, and, judging from my own experience,
not effective. — Thos. Woodford, Atlicrstone.

Seeing a query as to results of cyanide of potassium on wasps on
page 13 of last issue, I wish to state 1 have used it this season, having
during the past few days taken about thirty nests, some exceptionally
strong ones. I find it does not kill the larvm, but all the ingoing wasps.
My mode of procedure is to go around the nests, dropping in a table¬
spoonful of cyanide of potassium (liquid form), and in a short time
afterwards, not a wasp being seen, I dig the nest out and burn it.

The advantage of using the above in place of the old squib <A.

28

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 13, 1893.

powder and sulphur, or tar, is a nest can be taken any time during
the day, and clean and short work made of it. — A. Aldbeman,
Lffi,ngham Hill, JDorhing. _

I SEE in this week’s Journal a correspondent has been giving his
eKperience wdth cyanide of potassium for the destruction of wasps and
their nests. As he would like to hear the experience of others who have
tried cyanide, I quite corroborate your correspondent’s remarks. I have
repeatedly tried cyanide of potassium (strength as much as 90 per cent,
of cyanide), and although I have poured as much as 6 ozs. of strong
solution at a time down the holes of their nests, I have never yet
succeeded in destroying a nest completely. The most efficacious remedy
my gardener has found is gas tar poured down the holes, and this is a
very cheap and certain destroyer of wasps and their nests. — J. K. G.

I NOTICE Mr. Broady (page 14) is not very much in favour of cyanide
of potassium for destroying wasps, because it does not at the same time
destroy the larvm ; but he would himself confer a boon on the fruit¬
growing community by suggesting some other chemical so easy of
application that would destroy at the same time the adult wasp as well
as the larvm. The value of cyanide of potassium is found in the extreme
convenience of its application, because no night journeys are demanded
such as that occasioned by the use of gunpowder and sulphur squibs
commonly adopted for their extermination. Anyone on a wasp-destroy¬
ing expedition with the cyanide in a soluble state might, by carrying a
spade, dig out the nests on the return journey after an application of the
liquid an hour or two previous.

Mr. Broady says, “ When the nest is close to the entrance, which
very often happens, it kills a portion only of those inside, whilst the
rest are merely held prisoners until the fumes of the cyanide have
evaporated, when the wasps pass in and out as usual.” This experience
certainly does not coincide with that I have gained by observation ; so
long as the entrance is open they are not held prisoners, because of the
presence of the deadly fluid placed for their destruction. In an hour or
so after the cyanide has been poured in at the mouth of their nest I have
noticed that not a wasp was seen to move inside or out ; all would be
quiet. Even should it not kill the larvm it certainly would be worth
an extra journey to dig out. the nest, and the expense and trouble in its
application must be repaid.

It is well to have a store of Scott’s wasp destroyer in hand, in antici¬
pation of attacks on choice fruit ; usually this is effectual in checking
their depredations, but not always. Last year I knew of more than one
case where this was used persistently with no good effect, while in other
years wasps were careful to avoid fruit where it had been used. To be
effectual it should be put on the flrst fruits they attack, and particu¬
larly so on Grapes. I am under the impression that the cyanide would
be more effectual in a liquid than a dry state, and perhaps more
economical. When kept in a corked bottle there is less loss of evaporation.
— W. Strugnell

I have tried several plans for dealing with wasps’ nests, but I have
never found anything so convenient, and to my mind so safe as the
cyanide, but Mr. Broady (page 13) is certainly right in some degree in
his assertion that it only kills the wasps going in. I give it credit for
more than this, it stupefies those in the hive. The vapour is, I believe,
heavy and goes down into the nest. Let me tell of one nest I took some
years ago. A friend told me he was bothered with a nest in the roof of
his dining room bow window, could I take it ? Well, I said I would try.
I found that the wasps had three entrances under three different tiles.
At each entrance I put a piece of linen well soaked in a strong solution
of cyanide, and suggested lunch for myself. In the course of twenty
minutes I repaired to the roof. There was a stillness, and I removed one
tile, this brought me on the edge of the nest, and all was still yet, so
we removed some six or seven tiles and then the nest in all its beauty
was revealed, and beautiful it truly was, clean as if carved out of some
yellow veined marble, there it lay about 2 foot in length and 1 in
breadth, and from 5 to 10 inches in thickness. Still no sign of life ; so
I placed the spade flat on the roof between two rafters, and pushing
it as far as I could lifted the major portion bodily down on the spade
and deposited it in a foot tub filled with water. The smaller divisions
were removed in the same way. Neither the lookers-on or I were
stung, but the stable boy playing with the pieces of comb soon after
managed to squeeze a half dead wasp and was rewarded for his inquisi¬
tive attentions.

The vapour certainly does not affect the pupm covered in, and as
numbers of these are hatching daily, the nest will very soon become
lively again ; indeed, I have frequently after digging out the nest placed
it under a bell-glass, just lifting the bottom, and they soon begin enlarg¬
ing the nest and increasing in numbers, but if the queen have succumbed
to the poison the nest must, I suspect, come to an end in a few weeks,
when all the pupm in the nest have hatched. Wherever it is possible
to dig out and break up the nest I think this should be done, and I
think it may be done safely in a quarter of an hour or so after placing
the cyanide at all the entrances to the nest.

How long are the working wasps absent from the nest? This is a
question somewhat difficult of solution, but judging from my experience
v/ith the cyanide in taking nests, I should say that in fine weather it
would be exceptional for them to be away twenty minutes. I recollect
many years ago my old friend Mr. W. Taylor, then at Longleat, narrated

in your columns his plan for destroying the outsiders ; this was to bury
a bottle in the old nest, the entrance to the nest being the mouth of the
bottle, containing some syrup.

Applying cyanide and nothing else being done may be disappointing,
as Mr. Broady seems to feel, but complete the business, dig out the
nest, and cyanide is our most useful and most manageable help, at least
that is my experience. — Y. B. A. Z.

Messrs. W. Paul & Son’s Boses.

Messrs. William Paul & Son request us to state with reference
to the notice at page 8 of the Journal of Horticulture of their exhibit
of Roses at the Show at Earl’s Court on June 28th last, that a gold
medal (instead of a silver-gilt medal as mentioned) was awarded to the
exhibit in question.

Rose Margaret Dickson.

What your interesting contributor, “ W. R. Raillem,” has said in
recent numbers of the Journal of this beautiful Irish Rose is perfectly
true. When half blown I find it exceedingly impressive, surpassing in
purity of colour and majesty of aspect Merveille de Lyon. But at that
picturesque stage of its development it indicates a central iulness which
is not subsequently adequately sustained. In other words, when
fully expanded, it discloses an “ eye,” though by no means so con¬
spicuously as some other equally famous varieties, such for example as
the Baroness Rothschild from which it is descended. — David R.
Williamson.

An Old Man’s Views.

Ip the Rev. David Williamson desires to be an authority on Roses he
w'ould surely do well to be less flattering in his references to individuals
and look more carefully into the subjects on which he writes. He will
doubtless learn in time what most experienced rosarians know, that it
is not prudent to dogmatise on the merits of Roses or anything else on
the mere authority of their raisers. I have heard it said that Mr.
Williamson cannot have studied the new catalogue of the N.R.S. as an
oflSicial guide ; and it is also a matter of comment that he does not
appear to appreciate the cardinal difference between the raiser and
the introducer of a Rose, since he praises both alike, except when he
confounds them. Something more than a generous heart is needed to
fit a person to write with general acceptability on the subject of the
Rose. As one of the oldest contributors to the Journal of Horticulture
I feel I shall be doing a kindness to young, talented, and well meaning
writers if I can induce them to temper their zeal in (xtolling their
friends. The temptation may be great at times, and " sweet are the uses
of advertisement.” — A Jubilee Rose-grower.

Briers or Briars.

I see that a contemporary, which is not often wrong in spelling, and
was able lately to defend the word “ Chesnuts ” learnedly against an
impugner, speaks of Lord Penzance’s hybrids as “ Sweet - Briers.”
“ Briars ” is certainly the commonest form of spelling to which we are
accustomed ; but probably, as in so many other cases, either mode can
be defended. However, I remember an amusing incident as to the
spelling of this word, where “a ” or “e” was not the question. It was
at the examination of a night school for the Government grant, and the
teachers were allowed to examine subject to the rules sent to them. A
young East Anglian labourer was going through the reading ordeal, and
his teachers, of whom I was one, were anxiously watching his struggles.
He had sunk twice — I mean he had made two mistakes in his allotted
piece, and three would mean a failure. He came to the word in question,
stopped dead, and spelt it slowly. We encouraged him, and patted him
on the back, for he had all the appearance of having a word in him,
but of being afraid to part with it. At last, after much exhortation
to play the man and “ out with it,” he spelt it again very carefully,
“ B-r-i-a-r,” and then the word burst forth quite suddenly like an
explosion, “ Brumble bush 1 ” “ Well, well ! yes, oh yea ! eh, Raillem ? ”
said my dear old colleague (long since deceased) “ pass that — oh yes I
He knows what it means.” My conscience was against it, my rosarian
conscience, which knew that to the Suffolk rustic both Briars and Black¬
berries were “ Brumble bushes.” However, I said nothing, and the
Education Department was defrauded, but rosarian taxpayers will, I
hope, forgive. — W. R. Raillem.

Orange Fungus,

All rosarians, and the more modest Rose growers and lovers, must
feet grateful to Mr. Abbey (page 481, June 15th) for his interesting
article on this great pest. So far as my experience has gone, what I
have called orange fungus is not very common. The beautiful orange
spots have been with me comparatively rare, but the sort of powdery
dull yellowish brown appearance of the under portion of the leaves has

July 13, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

29

been common enough towards the latter part of the season. Are we to
understand that this, which ceitainly detracts from the beauty of the
foliage and very decidedly from the healthy condition of the plant, is
what Mr. Abbey has figured at D in fig. 87, and that it is the orange
fungus in another stage 1 If so, it seems to me we are fortunate in not
having the orange fungus much more frequently, because with me
it seems a very common trouble. I have on the first sight of the
orange spots picked off all I could see and burnt them, but with the
later condition I have let matters take their course, and I certainly have
seen plenty of it in exhibition stands.

It has long been my plan, right or wrong, to cut off all shoots of
Rose bushes that I should cut away in the following spring in the
autumn. At the same time I have shortened very fine growing shoots to
between 30 and 40 inches. This saves them in some degree from injury
from wintry winds. In future all this, whether affected or not, I shall
have burnt at once. If I take exception to any advice that Mr. Abbey
gives, I desire to do it in all humility. I cannot think that “ burying ”
the leaves can be a wise plan. Earth is a deodoriser certainly, but not a
disinfectant, and I cannot help thinking that whenever that ground is
dug, the spores must be set free to go on their evil deeds. Our fore¬
fathers certainly had the notion that to bury was to destroy. We reap
in the present day many of their sowings, to our misery and cost. Fire
is, after all, the great purifyer, the great destroyer of germs, and in that
alone, as to cut-off leaves and branches, should I have any faith.
— y. B. A, Z.

A Feast op Roses.

In marked contrast to last year, June has been virtually “ a month
of Roses.” Roses in abundance have shed infinite variety and beauty
on our fairest garden scenes. Noisette Roses on overhanging arches
have been studded from base to summit with clusters of pink and white
miniature Roses ; also in groups and beds with their numerous flowers
and tiny buds, affording a fitting contrast to the giants of other kinds.
Teas of the tenderer class have revelled in the late tropical weather, and
even Hybrid Perpetuals in open positions, have produced blooms of fine
size, substance and form, but unfortunately, owing to the great heat,
their beauty has been of short duration.

A better season for our national flower, could scarcely be wished for in
all instances where water has been copiously given, but where this has
not been done I have heard but poor accounts of the progress of Roses.
One thorough soaking being followed up by mulching with short
manure, has in many instances made a vast difference between the
results obtained from bushes so treated and others not given this necessary
attention, for as soon as a Rose tree begins to suffer from want of rich
food or water it becomes a prey to aphis, mildew, and caterpillars. It is
then but small wonder that such meagre results are obtained. This,
however, is a point which I do not intend to enter largely upon at present,
but rather to point out a few of the peculiarities exhibited by some
varieties during a season like the present one.

Those who pruned early have this year been rewarded with
decidedly the best blooms, especially among Hybrid Perpetuals. Bushes
or standards left unpruned till the usual time were much weakened by
having to cut away a large amount of young growth. I pruned some
bushes during the first week in March, and have cut some of our
finest blooms of the season from them, the growth made having been
wonderfully strong and healthy. La France has given us some beauti¬
ful blooms of the fine rounded form for which this variety is noted
when in good condition. Countess of Oxford, Victor Verdier, Marie
Baumann, John Stuart Mill, Mrs. J. Laing, Madame Nachury, Madame
Gab. Luizet, and Captain Christy have all succeeded remarkably well,
but that generally fine variety Merveille de Lyon has not been nearly
so good as usual ; the petals seem to lack substance and to be entirely
unable to withstand hot sunshine when accompanied by a parched
atmosphere. Duchess of Bedford, Jules Margottin, and Baroness
Rothschild also seem to delight in tropical weather, the latter variety
being so quickly spoilt by rain ; indeed pink or white Roses are generally
injured more quickly by rain than darker coloured kinds.

Excellent as the Hybrid Perpetuals have been, the Teas have done
still better with us this season. In a warm sunny position, when they
received abundance of water, the trees have made strong healthy growth
kept quite free of insects, and produced many grand blooms. Even that
handsome variety Jean Ducher, which generally produces large promising
buds, but unfortunately fails to open them properly by reason of the
petals being so quickly injured by rain or dew, has this season developed
fine blooms. Bougere is another wonderfully free flowering kind which
has given a multitude of blooms. Ernest Metz in my opinion is one
of the most beautiful coloured Teas grown, the blooms being of fine
form and soft colour, and Grace Darling, though by no means large, is
unique in appearance by reason of the peach-coloured shade which
predominates in the flowers. Madame de Watteville has, as yet, given
but few blooms, the severe frost of the last two winters having killed
much of the wood. I look forward, however, to having a large number
of blooms later on. Madame H. Jamain and Innocente Pirola, though
not remarkable for the amount of growth made, have given an unusual
number of blooms. This is perhaps accounted for by the fact that they
were less severely pruned than most other varieties on account of having
made a large amount of growth early.

Princess of Wales is the dwarfest growing Tea we have, but it
flowers very freely, and is particularly attractive in the bud. Goubault,
Souvenir d’un Ami, and Catherine Mermet have opened their flowers
without the slightest blemish being apparent in their delicate petals.
Rubens is a variety which does not appear to me to be sufficiently well

known. It is simply perfect in the bud, being white delicately tinted
rose, and of fine conical form. The Bride has this year proved to be
quite worthy of its name, having produced blooms which stood peerless
among a wealth of Roses. — H. Dunkin.

PINKS AT HANDSWORTH.

I HAVE for two or three years past sent you some notes on
exhibition laced Pinks in the collection grown by Mr. Arthur R. Brown
of the Crompton Road, Handsworth, Birmingham, a collection famous
in the Midlands for its inclusion of the newest as well as the best oldest
varieties, and for excellent cultivation. Mr. Brown’s father was a well-
known and greatly esteemed old florist, and always made Pinks a
favourite flower. He was the raiser of Mrs. Lark, Ethel, and that finest
of all the laced Pinks, Amy ; and this flower, with the Carnation and
Picotee, finds a thoughtful and excellent cultivator in the son. The
extreme heat of the early and middle part of June brought Pinks
rapidly into bloom, and when the flowers were not shaded the colour of
the lacing was destroyed to a great extent. Mr. Brown had his plants
growing under a structure like that used for Tulips, with a canvas
shading, but with plenty of air. It was difficult to preserve them in
good character for any length of time in such tropical weather.

Campbell’s Extra is dark purple lacing, a refined flower with fine
petal this year. Last year it generally came heavy and not so good.
This season’s blooming shows it to be a desirable variety. Brown’s
Amy is a grand Pink, and the finest in cultivation. A large flower of
perfect form, with broad smooth petal, and a heavy lacing of dark
maroon, a variety that should be in every collection. Fellowes’
Pandora, light red or rose laced, is a large back row flower, but lacking
refinement and form. Campbell’s Nothing Better is a most refined
flower, dark purple laced, and an evident acquisition, but as yet very
scarce. Paul’s Chastity has a fine petal, the bloom is small but of
good quality, and with bright rose lacing. Paul’s Emeline is a dark
purple laced flower of first-rate quality, and will be sought after by
growers. Brown’s Ethel is a large full flower with good petal and
fine form, with narrow reddish purple lacing, and an acquisition..
Turner’s Berard is an old well known and still fine variety of large size,
and a good exhibition flower, with dark red lacing. Hooper’s Mrs.
Fred Hooper, clear rose laced, is a very fine flower, with large petal,
and stands in the foremost rank of fine varieties. Paul’s Bertha is a
grand flower with a fine petal, with dark reddish purple lacing.
Fellowes’ Lorina is a large flower, bright in colour, dark red lacing,
but faulty in petal and form. Turner’s Godfrey is an old variety still
worth growing, with reddish purple lacing, and a reliable exhibition
flower. Fellowes’ Hebe is very heavy in colour and rough ; large, but
wanting in refinement. Douglas’ Empress of India is a beautiful flower,
with an excellent petal and rich bright dark lacing. It has only one
fault — thinness ; and another row of petals would make it a very first-
class flower, but as it is it is a most desirable variety, Fellowes’
Minerva is a fine flower with dark red lacing, and an improvement on
Turner’s Bertram, and is a fine heavy laced flower. Hooper’s Ne Plus
Ultra at Handsworth is identical with Boiard, or at all events, so like
it that a distinctness cannot be seen.

Paul’s William Paul, with clear rose lacing, is a very fine variety, but
such a bad doer, else it would be valuable. Paul’s Ada Louise, rosy purple
lacing, is bright in colour, but rough in form as grown here. Turner’s Dr.
Maclean, rosy purple lacing, is a fine flower, but a bad grower. Rosy
Morn, heavy rose laced, has a fine petal, and is one of the best of Mr.
Fellowes’ raising. Hooper’s Harry Hooper, a first-class very fine full
flower with broad petal, and rich and bright reddish-purple lacing.
Hooper’s Emerald, red lacing, is like Ada Louise, and is rather rough.
Brown’s Mrs. Dark, an old flower now, is still a useful one and a good
grower. Paul’s Tottie, a small but chaste flower, with good petal
and bright red lacing. Love’s John Love for the future is to be
rejected, as “ Modesty” is so much finer. Paxford’s Ne Plus Ultra, an
Oxford raised flower with dark red lacing, is very pure in the white,
but coarse. Paul’s Modesty is always a first-class flower, and should be
in every collection, however small, and with light reddish-purple lacing.
Maclean’s John Ball is still a good old flower, with dark rich purple
lacing. Arthur Brown is the name given to a very fine seedling raised
by Mr. George Chaundy of Oxford, a coming flower with bright medium
rosy-purple lacing, the white pure, and with a fine well-formed petal..
This flower must be described as extra fine. Fellowes’ Princess Louise
last year I described as almost a good flower ; this year it is good,
with a broad petal and of fine form, and with red lacing. Fellowes’
Bessie is a very large flower, reddish-purple lacing, but rough. Fellowes’
Olympia, red laced, large but rough. Fellowes’ Lustre, reddish-purple
lacing, is large, but with a small petal. Fellowes’ Ophelia, reddishr
purple lacing, was rough last year, but a little better this year, but still
rough. Taylor’s Alderman Thorp, dark red lacing, and Taylor’s Samuel
Barlow are both thin but with good petals, and too small for midland
growers.

Croak’s Noble Grand is dark red laced, and has a fine petal, but is
BO thin. Croak’s Mrs. J. Croak is a very useful telling flower, and if
smoother on the edge would be in every way a first-rate flower. Fellowes’
Jeannette is one of 'nis best, and must be regarded as a fine^ back row
flower with bright purple lacing. Fellowes’ The Rector is a grand
variety, the best he has sent out and first-class in every way, with purple
lacing. Fellowes’ Captain Kennedy, reddish purple lacing, a newer and
very fine flower of good form, fine petal, and bright colour. Fellowes’
Maggie, rosy purple lacing, full of petals and a flower of fair quality as

50

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 13, 1893.

seen here, but it has not the fine petal and quality of The Rector.
Fellowes’ Melanee, new, small in petal, still a pretty and full flower of
medium quality and with bright red lacing. Fellowes’ Enchantress,
aew, is a very promising flower, and evidently an improved “ Zoe,” but
this variety is not fairly tested here this season. Paul’s Undine is rose
laced, pretty but small. Fellowes’ Favourite is new, a promising flower
af “ Rector ” colour, but with small petal and with reddish purple
lacing. This must have another season’s trial, as the plants were small,
but it is a variety evidently worth growing. (Since writing these notes
another bloom has opened, and it is evidently a very flne Pink, and the
beet Mr. Fellowes has raised excepting The Rector.) Hooper’s James
Bouglas and Douglas’s John Drake were not in good character ; and
Campbell’s Sancho had not bloomed, so I am unable to send notes of
these, also of Mr. Thurston’s new varieties.

Border Pinks are also grown here, and side by side were Mrs.
iSinkins, Her Majesty, and Mrs. Lakin, all white varieties, the latter
being the best, and with a better pod than the others. Hooper’s Mrs.
Barlow has a pale rose pink ground colour, with pale purple lacing, of
good form, and is a very pretty border variety. — W. Dean.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

July Htu.

Chiswick Local Show.

An Exhibition of fruit, flowers, and vegetables was held in the
'iardens of the Royal Horticultural Society at Chiswick on the above
date, and from an horticultural point of view it was a success. Flowers
and plants were well shown, but fruit was not, in the competitive
classes, so well represented as might have been expected. Several
exhibits were brought to the notice of the various Committees, and
these are referred to in their respective places. The annual Exhibition
of the National Carnation and Picotee Society (Southern Section) was
held at the same time and place, and a report of the Show will be
found elsewhere in this issue. There was but a moderate attendance
at the Exhibition in the afternoon, although fine weather prevailed.

Feuit Committee. — Phillip Crowley, Esq. (in the chair) ; Messrs.
3. T. Wright, J. Cheal, W. Bates, F. Q. Lane, Geo. Wythes, G. Taber,
W, Warren, T. F. Rivers, P. C. Veitch, G. Reynolds, Harrison Weir,
3. Balderson, G. H. Sage, W. H. Divers, A. Dean, and J. Willard.

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nurseries, Chelsea, staged a
magnificent collection of Gooseberries, comprising many of the leading
varieties in cultivation. Noticeable amongst others were Hebron Pro¬
lific, small, fine flavour ; Jays Wing, Rumbullion, Warrington, White¬
smith, Green Laurel, Ironmonger, Gipsy Queen, Keen’s Seedling, Yellow
Champagne, very fine flavour, one of the most distinct and best. A
sfiver-gilt Knightian medal was recommended for this collection.
Apples, Cherries, Currants, and Raspberries were also shown by the
same firm. The Red Currants were particularly fine. La Versaillaise
being the finest so far as size of berry may be taken as a criterion.
Mr. J, Hudson, Gunnersbury House Gardens, was awarded a cultural
commendation for six bunches of Black Hamburgh Grapes, which had
been cut from a Vine growing in a 12-inch pot. The combined weight
of the six bunches was 9 lbs. 6 ozs.

Mr. J. Douglas, Great Gearies, Ilford, staged a fine bunch of his
seedling white Grape, the result of a cross between Black Hamburgh
and White Muscadine. Messrs. Hurst & Son, Houndsditch, staged a
'oasket of Tomato Dunedin Favourite. The fruits were very shapely
and of a rich deep red colour. Mr. Owen Thomas, Royal Gardens,
Windsor, showed seedling Melons in fine condition. The same exhibitor
also staged fruits of Walburton Admirable Peach, for which he was
accorded a cultural commendation. Messrs. Thomas Rivers & Son,
Saw bridgeworth, staged a grand collection of fruit, including Peaches,
Nectarines, and Plums, for which a silver Knightian medal was recom¬
mended. Peaches Princess of Wales and a seedling were very fine, also
were Early Rivers and Hale’s Early, which had been grown in a cold
bouse. A box of Early Rivers Nectarine was also striking. Early
Rivers, Emperor Francis, White Bigarreau, Bedford Prolific, and Bigar-
reau Monstreuse de Mezel were amongst the best of the Cherries, and
Grand Duke, Victoria, and Monarch of the Plums.

Mr. Miller, gardener to Lord Foley, Ruxley Lodge, Esher, staged a
collection of Peaches and Nectarines, for which a cultural commenda¬
tion was accorded. Mr. Miller also staged a dish of Ponderosa Tomatoes.
Mr. Leach, Albury Park Gardens, showed Peaches, Grapes, and fruiting
branches of Plums and Damsons. A vote of thanks was accorded.
Messrs. Robert Veitch & Son, Exeter, staged a dish of Lotus tetragono-
lobus (Asparagus Pea), for which they were accorded a vote of thanks.
Mr. Payne staged a creditable collection of Tomatoes. Mr. Thos.
Kerridge, Norwood Lodge, Southall, showed a fine plant of a seedling
Tomato Norwood Lodge.

Floeal Committee. — Present : W. Marshall, Esq. (in the chair),
Messrs. Jas. Walker, George Stevens, W. C. Leach, Chas. E. Shea, Thos.
Godfrey, R. B. Lowe, J. H. Fitt, Chas. Noble, Chas. Jeffries, Robert
Owen, and Frank Ross.

Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading, had a beautiful display of their
specialties, these including a fine strain of bedding Stocks, Achimenes
^ngiflora and Rosy Queen, also some splendid Begonias, described as
being six months from the seed-sowing stage. They were large,
Iwalthy plants full. of bloom. Semperflorens compacta rosea; S. Coral
Gem, a charming variety, with soft blush pink flowers; Duehess of
York, bright rose ; Duchess of Edinburgh, white, with broad rose

margin ; Crimson Gem and Reading Snowflake, white. A silver-gilt
Flora medal was deservedly recommended. A large and beautiful col¬
lection of Ferns and foliage plants was sent by Mr. H. B. May. The
plants were in beautiful condition and most tastefully arranged ; indeed,
the group was one of the best Mr. May has put together. A silver-gilt
medal was reeommended.

Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son had a beautiful mixed group of
Orchids and other plants, these ineluding Brassavola Digbyana,
Cypripedium superbiens, Demidoff’s variety, Ochna mnltifiora, Epiden-
drum nemorale, and many others (silver Flora medal). Messrs. Hugh
Low, Clapton, sent a new Lilium named L. Lowi, for which a first-class
certificate was awarded. This is referred to elsewhere. Messrs. J.
Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, sent some Begonias and other plants, obtain¬
ing awards of merit for Dracaena indivisa aurea variegata and Caladium
Baronne de Maimore. Mr. Anthony Waterer, Knaphill, sent plants of
Spiraea “ Anthony Waterer,” and Mrs. Blake, Croydon (gardener, Mr.
Lewrey), a basket of Lewrey’s Beauty Lobelia. Messrs. Wallace k Co.,
Colchester, sent plants of a new Lily, named Lilium Alexandras
provisionally, for which a first-class certificate was awarded.

Messrs. J. Veitch k Sons sent apparently the same Lilium under the
name of L. Ukeyuri, and a first-class certificate was awarded. Messrs.
Veitch also secured a botanical certificate for Ferraria antherosa, and
they had Begonia decora, Strobilanthes Dyeriana, and other plants.
Mons. Lemoine, Nancy, sent a number of fibrous-rooted Begonias, the
best of them being B. Sieberiana, Illustration, and Bajocensis. Mr.
J. Sallier sent a variegated Nicotiana which is described elsewhere
(award of merit). Messrs. H. Cannell k Sons, Swanley, had a group of
Tuberous Begonias, the plants having been grown from seed sown last
February. 'They were well in flower, and attracted much attention.
Messrs, Chas. Lee & Son. Hammersmith, arranged an effective group of
hardy ornamental shrubs, for which a silver-gilt Flora medal was
recommended.

Orchid Committee. — Present : H. J. Veitch, Esq. (in the chair) ;
J. O’Brien, E. Hill, Chas. Pilcher, and Dr, Masters.

Orchids were not shown very extensively. Messrs. Hugh Low k Co.,
Clapton, sent a small group, amongst which Cattleya Harrisonre,
C. Eldorado splendens, C. gigas, Cypripedium Schroderse, and the beau¬
tiful Stanhopea Amesiana were conspicuous. Messrs. F. Sander k Co.,
St. Albans, sent a small collection of choice Orchids. Amongst these
were Cypripedium Massaianum (award of merit), Anguloa Clowesi,
Cattleya granulosa, and C. Gaskelliana, Cook’s variety, T. Statter, Esq.,
Stand Hall, Manchester (gardener, Mr. R. Johnson), sent a plant of
Cypripedium Stonei Cannartm, for which an award of merit was given.
This is described below. Mr. Statter also sent blooms of other Orchids,
and Mr. W. C. Clark, Orleans House, Sefton Park, Liverpool, sent a
spike of Cattleya Rex. Messrs. W. Lewis & Co., Southgate, had a plant
of Cattleya Gaskelliana var. Southgatense.

Certificates and Awards of Merit.

Alstroemeria aurantiaca (G. H, Cannell, Esq.). — This is a well known
hardy plant, the orange red flowers being most attractive (award of
merit).

Caladium Baronne de Maimore (J, Laing k Sons). — An attractive
variety with medium sized leaves of a light colour and prominent red
veins (award of merit).

Cyinijyedium Massaianum (F. Sander k Co.). — This is the result of
a cross between C. superciliare and C. Rothschildianum. The plant
shown bore two flowers on one scape. The blooms show the parentage
of C. Rothschildianum in the petals. The lip is dark brown (award of
merit).

Cyprijoedinm Stonei Cannarte (T. Statter, Esq.). — This is a fine form
of C. Stonei. The dorsal sepal is broad, light eoloured, veined brown ;
the petals being long, narrow, and of the character of the type. The lip
is light purplish brown and yellow (award of merit),

Draccena indivisa aurea variegata (J. Laing k Son). — A decorative
plant with greenish yellow stripes in the centre of each leaf (award of
merit).

Lilium Alexandria X (Wallace k Co.). — This is a new Lily, and
was certificated subject to its being correctly named by Mr. Baker, who
on a cursory examination, we are informed, considers it to be a garden
hybrid. It is a grand kind from .lapan. It is apparently a dwarf
form, the plants exhibited being less than 18 inches in height and each
bearing three flowers. The blooms are very large and pure white (first-
class certificate).

Lilium Lowi (H. Low k Co.). — This is a tall-growing Lilium, the
plant (which was in a 5-inch pot) shown being upwards of 3 feet in
height. The flowers are medium size, white, the throat being densely
spotted with crimson (first-class certificate).

Lilium Ukeyuri (J. Veitch k Sons). — This is apparently the same
Lilium as was shown by Messrs. Wallace k Co., and which is described
above (first-class certificate).

Nicotiana colossea variegata (J. Sallier, Paris). — This is a variegated
form with large leaves. The variegation consists of a creamy margin
and light coloured ribs (award of merit).

Competitive Classes.

The competitive classes were fairly well filled, and in most instances
the exhibits were of a good quality. Mr. Porteous, gardener to E. H,
Watts, Esq., Devonhurst, Chiswick, exhibited some large and fine
Ferns, very healthy and fresh. In the class for nine hardy sorts, Mr.

July 13, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

31

Waite, gardener to Colonel Talbot, Esher, was first with some large
specimens. A. Russell, Esq., Woodlands, Isleworth, had some well
coloured Fuchsias in the class for six. and was placed first. Mr. J. Ford,
gardener to Sir C. Pigott, Wrexham Park, Slough, was first for twelve
Tuberous Begonias. They were splendid plants, being large, clean, and
well furnished with fine flowers. It is not often that such admirable
quality is met with in Begonias at an Exhibition. Mr. Ford had
arranged his plants with Ferns and Caladiums, so that their effect was
enhanced. Mr. W. H. Davis, gardener to T. E. Hodgson, Esq., Ranelagh
House, Grore Park, was placed first for twelve trusses of Zonals ; they
were a little thin, but still far superior to those of Mr. Hoar, gardener
to T. J. Cooper, Esq., The Grange, West Molesey. Mr. Porteous won
with twelve bunches of stove and greenhouse flowers, his Orchids being
excellent. Mr. Aspland, gardener to Dr. Tuke, Chiswick House, was
second ; Mr. Davis third, and Mr. Hoar fourth. Mr. Sage, gardener to
Earl Dysart, Ham House, Richmond, won with hardy flowers, Mr.
Aspland being second. Miss Debenham was first with eight bunches,
Mr. Hudson, Gunnersbury House, Acton, following. Mr. W. H. Davis
had some excellent Gloxinias, and was placed first for them ; while
Mr. Jones, gardener to E. Hyde, Esq., had some grand plants not for
competition.

In the class for twenty-four Roses, distinct, Messrs. Harkness & Son,
Bedale, were awarded the first prize, showing some very fine blooms,
amongst the best of which were Gustave Piganeau, Horace Vernet,
Reynolds Hole, Madame Hausman, and Fisher Holmes. Mr. G. Mount,
Ganterbury, was second with a very creditable stand ; and Mr. B . R.
Cant, Colchester, third. There were four competitors in this cla?s.
Messrs. Harkness & Son were again accorded the first prize, a silver
cup, for twenty-four Roses, distinct, three trusses of each, staging Duke
of Wellington, Duke of Connaught, Etienne Levet, A. K. Williams,
Alfred Colomb, Dupuy Jamain, Exposition de Brie, and Madame
John Laing in excellent form. Mr. B. R. Cant was second with a fine
stand, and Mr. Frank Cant, Colchester, third. Six competitors.
John Bateman, Esq., Rose Vale, Archway Road, N., gained the second
prize in the class for twelve distinct Roses. There were only two com¬
petitors, the second being the only prize awarded.

For a group of plants arranged for effect, Messrs. W. Fromow and
Sons, Sutton Court Nurseries, Chiswick, were awarded the first prize.
This group was tastefully arranged, comprising Palms, Crotons, Ferns,
Liliums, Orchids, Begonias, and Caladiums. Mr. Porteus, gardener to
E. H. Watts, Esq., was first for another group well arranged. Dr. Tuke
being second in this class. Both exhibits were attractive and well
arranged. Mr. C. Turner, Royal Nursery, Slough, was awarded first
prize for a group of Pelargoniums, showing well flowered plants. Miss
Lilian Hudson, Gunnersbury House, Acton, W., secured the leading
prizes for a stand of flowers. The floral classes for amateurs were
fairly well contested, and the exhibits in many cases were very
creditable to their growers, the window box for which Mr. J. Gale,
Chiswick, was accorded the first prize, being particularly noticeable.
Vegetables were also staged in fine condition in the cottagers’ classes,
the collection of Mr. A. Farmer, Gunnersbury, being remarkably good
for the season.

Fruit was not so extensively shown. For two bunches of black
Grapes Mr. T. Osman, The Gardens, Ottershaw Park, was first, show¬
ing Black Hamburgh in good condition. Mr. C. J. Waite, gardener
to Col. the Hon. W. P. Talbot, was second, there being no other
competitor. There were four exhibitors of two bunches of white
Grapes. Mr. Osman was again first with well-grown Mrs. Pearson ;
Mr. C. Payne, gardener to W. A. South, Esq., Neasdon House,
Neasdon, being second with Muscat of Alexandria. E. H. Watts,
Esq., Devonhurst, Chiswick, was third. Mr. W. H. Divers, gardener to
J. T. Hopwood, Esq., Ketton Hall, Stamford, was the only exhibitor of
Strawberries, and the first prize was awarded for a fine dish of British
Queen. Mr. C. J. Waite was first with a dish of Nectarines, showing
Stanwick Elruge in fine condition. Mr. J. Ford, gardener to Sir C.
Pigott, Bart., Wrexham Park, Slough, was second with the same variety ;
and Mr. G. H. Sage, gardener to Earl Dysart, Ham House, third
with Victoria. Of Peaches there were four exhibitors, Mr. J. Debnam,
gardener to A. Pears, Esq., Spring Grove House, Isleworth, being first
with splendidly coloured Violette Hative. Mr. J. Ford was second with
Barrington, and Mr. Waite third with Royal George, well coloured.

Mr. C. J. Waite, gardener to Colonel the Hon. W. P. Tallxjt, Glen-
hurst, Esher, was accorded Messrs. J. Carter & Co.’s special prize for
six dishes of vegetables, showing Carter’s Ashtop Fluke Potato, Green
Globe Artichoke, Carter’s Perfection Tomato, Holborn Onion, Summer
Favourite Carrot, and Telegraph Pea, all in very good condition. Mr. C.
Payne, gardener to W. A. South, Esq., Neasden House, Neasden, being
second, and A. 'Russell, Esq., Woodlands, Isleworth, third. Mr. H.
Balderson, Corner Hall, Hemel Hempstead, secured the leading prize
offered by Messrs. C. Sharpe & Co., Sleaford, for three dishes of Peas,
showing Sharpe’s Queen, Triumph, and Sir F. A. Millbank in fair condi¬
tion. Mr. G. J. Waite was second, and Mr. T. Watkins, Grove House,
Merrow, third. Mr. Waite gained first prizes for three dishes of
Potatoes, showing Reading Giant, Sutton’s Seedling, and Carter’s Ash¬
top Fluke. Mr. Farmer, Railway Cottages, Blenheim Road, Gunners¬
bury, was second, and Mr. G. H. Sage third. Tomatoes were grandly
shown by Mr. Sage, who had Conference, Sutton’s Al, and Perfection.
Mr. C. Payne was second. Mr. W. H. Davies, gardener to T. E. H.
Hodgson, Esq , Ranelagh House, Grove Park, was first with a brace of
Cucumbers, showing Sutton’s Peerless. Dr. Tuke, Chiswick House, was
second.

Events of the Week. — Events of horticultural interest are not
particularly numerous during the ensuing week. To-day (Thursday) the
provincial Show of the National Rose Society will be held at Worksop,
and the Woodbridge (Suffolk) Exhibition takes place. Several Rose
shows will take place in various parts of the country, and a list of these
will be found in our last issue.

- The Weather in London. — After a few days of abnormal

heat heavy thunder showers occurred at the end of last week. Rain
fell heavily on Saturday afternoon, and in some parts of the metropolis
much damage was done by the lightning. On Sunday, Monday and
Tuesday occasional showers also occurred, these refreshing vegetation
considerably. Wednesday opened showery, and at the time of going to
press the weather appears unsettled.

- Royal Wedding Decorations. — Mr. J. W. Wimsett, Ash-

burnham Park Nursery, King’s Road, Chelsea, requests us to state that
his firm supplied half of the floral decorations for the Royal wedding,
the remainder, as stated on page 10 in our last issue, being done by
Messrs. Wills & Segar.

- The Trentham Show. — We are informed that the Exhibition

to be held in the grounds of the Duke of Sutherland on the 20th inst.
is expected to be of a very interesting and comprehensive nature. The
schedule is an excellent one, and prizes good. Gardeners are expected
from various parts of the country. All the “ best people ” from the
surrounding neighbourhood visit the Trentham shows, and the company
generally has always been very large indeed.

_ Frozen Chrysanthemum Blooms. — Chrysanthemum growers

will be interested to learn a special meeting of the General Committee,
and also of the Floral Committee of the National Chrysanthemum
Society, will take place at the Royal Aquarium, Westminster, on Friday,
July 21st, at six o’clock in the evening, to examine the frozen blooms of
Chrysanthemums sent from Sydney, Australia. Members of the Society
not being members of the General or Floral Committees are invited to
attend at seven o’clock to inspect the frozen blooms.

_ Shrubs and Trees Burnt at the Alexandra Palace.—

On Saturday, July 1st, the shrubbery and trees immediately in front
of the Alexandra Palace, Wood Green, N., through some unexplained
cause, became ignited, and the fire spread with such alarming
rapidity that in a very short time several acres were ablaze. The
local steamers, in addition to the Palace hydrants, were quickly at
work, but the fire was not got under for some hours. The conflagra¬
tion covered an area of ten acres, and considerable damage was done
to shrubs and trees.

- Some Fine Oats. — In reference to your leader in last week’s

issue respecting the effect of the drought, I send you herewith a sample
of Oats growing on 10 acres of nursery land. We have had only one
night’s rain since the first week in March. The days are too short to
count the number of corns to each head, but I estimate the yield at at
least 10 quarters to the acre. The Oats are 5 feet high. The curious
part of the whole matter is that most landowners charge extra rent for
land used for nurseries, because they say nurserymen spoil the land.
—A. H. Pearson, Chilwell mcrsery. [Good nurserymen improve it
by deep cultivation. The Oats were splendid.]

_ United Horticultural Benefit and Provident

Society. — The quarterly meeting of this Society was held on
Monday evening last at the Caledonian Hotel. Mr. Nathan Cole
occupied the chair. Three new members were elected, making thirty-
five in the six months. The death of a non-paying member occurred
in May last, and the amount standing to his credit (£21 Ts. Id.) was
paid to his widow. The late member ceased to contribute in 1836.
One member only is on the Sick Fund at the present time, thus
showing the health of the members to be good. The Treasurer
reported having invested £200 in West Bromwich 3 per cent, stock
since the last meeting. The usual vote of thanks to the Chairman
I terminated the proceedings.

82

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 13, 1893.

- Wakefield Paxton Society. — At the usual meeting of the

members of this Society last week an excellent essay on “ Summer
Salads” was read by Mr. W. Hudson, The Lodge, Sandal Grange*
The paper contained several excellent suggestions and some valuable
advice.

- The Midland Carnation and Picotee Society. — We are

requested to state that, owing to the earliness of the season, the date of
this Exhibition, which will be held in the Botanical Gardens, Edgbaston,
has been fixed for Saturday, July 22nd, instead of August 5th as in the
original schedule.

- Johnson’s Gardeners’ Dictionary.— The fifth part of the

new edition of this standard work has come to hand. It deals with
the genera from Inga to Agaricus campestris (Mushroom), inclusive,
full cultural details of the latter being given. As we have before
remarked, the edition will be completed in eight parts.

- Gardening Appointment. — Mr, Thomas Winkworth, who

for the past eighteen years has been gardener to Ealph Brocklebank,
Esq., Childwall Hall, Liverpool, has been appointed gardener to that
gentleman’s eldest son (of the same name), who is leaving Childwall,
having purchased Haughton Hall estate, near Tarporley, Cheshire.

- Verbascum Chaixi.— “E. M.” writes, “This Nettle-leaved

Mullein has grown to an abnormal height with me this year. We have
a plant of it amongst some Ehododendrons which has thrown up its
flower spikes 8 feet high, where it has an imposing effect, the foliage of
the evergreens below making a pleasing getting to its pale yellow
flowers. The plant in question has been established half a dozen years.
The strong soil in which it is growing appears to suit it well. Where a
suitable site can be found this is just the plant to grow for the borders
or shrubberies.”

- Violas White Duchess and Countess of Wharncliffe,

— The first is a new Viola of merit. Its colour is white, distinctly
edged with blue. That it will become a favourite with Viola
cultivators I cannot doubt. It was raised by Mr. Baxter of Daldowie.
Passing to the Countess of Wharncliffe, it is to my mind the chastest,
sweetest, and most fragrant of pure white Violas. Its colour is exquisite,
resembling that of white satin. Let any of the readers of this Journal
who cultivate the Viola compare the Countess of Wharncliffe with
Countess of Hopetoun, and they find that the difference is very dis¬
cernible. Another of my most precious floral possessions is Dr. Stuart’s
miniature Viola, entitled “ Violetta,” which may be described in the
language of Thomas Gray, as “ a gem of purest ray serene.” — David
K. Williamson,

- Pansies at the World’s Fair. — An American contem¬
porary says ; — The Pansy display at the World’s Fair, Chicago, will no
doubt soon lose some of its attractiveness from the continuation of ex¬
cessively warm weather. The great beds in front of the horticultural
building are daily admired by thousands. These Pansies, which repre¬
sent the best strains of growers in England, France, and Germany, as
well as in America, were sown in the open ground July 12th-18th
last year. The locality chosen was one of the inner courts of the horti¬
cultural building, so, although in the open ground, they would be at
least partially shaded at some times during the day. They received
their first transplanting when about five weeks old, being given more
room for the purpose of encouraging a more stocky growth. They were
finally planted out in the autumn, and were all wintered outside. Some
of them were covered with littery manure, while others were protected
by temporary frames. The Pansies were very late in coming into bloom,

- Foreign Fruit Crops, — Latest advices from Greece show

that the downy mildew has attacked the Currant plants in Patras,
Zante, and some of the other coast districts, and there is reason to fear
that much damage will be done, although Currant growers in the east
have learned to use the copper compounds for spraying against mildew.
It is probable, says the “ Garden and Forest,” that in a few years
Currants from California will be as common in our markets as other
fruits are now, since the experiments in cultivating this berry there
have proved most encouraging. Fruit dealers are looking forward
confidently to the time when European Currants will be subject to
competition with the California product, just as European Prunes and
Eaisins now are. The Prune crop of Bosnia and Servia is likely to be
up to the average, and the crop of French Prunes will be abundant and
good. Encouraging reports come from Spain as to the crop of Valencia
Eaisins, and a careful review of the situation in the “ Journal of
Commerce ” concludes that there is likely to be an abundance of fruit
from all sections of the world with low prices.

- Death of Mr. Egbert Holland, — We regret to hear of

the sudden death recently, from heart disease, of Mr, Eobert Holland of
Frodsham, Cheshire, a well known authority on agriculture, and the
joint author, with Mr. James Britten, F.L.S., of the Natural History
Museum, South Kensington, of the “ Dictionary of English Plant
Names.”

- Summer Marguerites, — These are beautiful flowers when

blooming superbly in huge masses. At the same place as I saw these
there are Helenium pumilum, clear yellow, 15 inches in height ; Erigeron
speciosus superbus, large flat bluish mauve flowers ; and Chrys¬
anthemum maximum, white, the fine dwarf form of the Ox-eye Daisy.
Later in the season this latter is well replaced by Chrysanthemums
lacustre and uliginosum ; the Helenium by various single Helianthuses
and Harpaliums ; and the Erigeron by some of the finer forms of the
Michaelmas Daisy. — A. D.

- Death of Mr. John Fielden.— We learn with extreme

regret of the death of Mr. John Fielden, of Grimston Park, Tadcaster.
He was, we believe, about seventy years of age, and had been in a weak
state of health for a considerable time. He was buried on Friday last in
the pretty churchyard adjoining the fine old parish church of Kirkby
Wharfe, mourned deeply by a wide circle of friends, and by those who
had served him. A more kind, considerate, and when merit deserved, a
more appreciative employer did not exist. He took an interest in
everyone on his place, and showered benefits upon those who had won
his confidence. It is considered probable that the magnificent estate
will remain in the Fielden family.

- SwAlNSONlA GALEGAEFOLIA ALBA. — The finest Specimen of

this greenhouse plant that I have seen is growing against the back wall
in Mr. Agate’s Chrysanthemum house in Havant. The space covered
is 15 feet by 7 feet, and is a sheet of pure white blooms. The floor of
the house is composed of soil in which are planted Tomatoes, with Tea
Eoses against the back wall. The plant in question is in a 12-incb pot,
but the roots have found their way through the hole at the bottom, and
are now rambling in the border. I have seen this same plant many
times, but never found it flowerless. Mr, Agate speaks highly of it in
producing flowers, which are extremely useful for wreaths, bouquets,
or in fact any form of decoration. — E. M.

- Achimenes. — There is just now in profuse bloom a very large

collection of these pretty old fashioned tuberous-rooted flowers at the
London Eoad Nursery, Eeading, where not only have the Messrs, Sutton
and Sons collected all the best varieties, chiefly in 48-size pots, and in
that perfection of cultivation which always characterises all that is
there done, but they have them filling the long span-house. From out of
the whole number I select as, to my mind, the most beautiful — Ambrose
Verschaffelt, white, veined with dark blue ; Celestial, lavender blue ;
Longiflora major, deep blue ; Masterpiece, purple ; Alba major, pure
white ; Harry Williams, deep rich rosy crimson ; Lady Lyttleton, ruddy
carmine ; Eose Queen, rosy magenta ; andSplendens, fiery scarlet — as being
a beautiful collection, although all the varieties are very charming. — D,

- Kola. — Some useful information with reference to this valu¬
able plant is contained in a report on the botany of Sierra Leona pre¬
sented to the Colonial Office and published as an official paper by Mr,
C. F. Scott Elliot. The tree Kola acuminata, Mr. Elliott says, grows
freely everywhere, and is found from the sea level to fully 3000 feet at
Sumbauaya, in the Talla highlands. It appears to thrive wherever
planted, and is well able to hold its own in the original native bush.
Mr. Elliot could not find any special conditions of soil as necessary, but
it certainly grows on disintegrated gneiss, red grit or laterite, dolerite,
and occasionally on dry alluvium. He does not think he ever saw it
on marshy ground or soil liable to be overflowed, and in planting the
tree such places ought to be avoided. It begins to bear in seven years,
and is in full bearing after eight to ten years. Each tree is said to
yield £3 to £4 per annum, and hence a plantation ought certainly to
include a large number of these trees. The yield given by Mr, Fawcett
is 125 lbs,, or 4000 seeds per tree — that is, £8 to £10 per tree, or £800
an acre. Semler says it produces 50 kilog. in the tenth year. At
present the nuts are chiefly used by the natives, but so much has been
done of late years to bring their valuable properties before the public
that it may be safely said that the demand in Europe is sure to increase.
The following are some of its properties. A nut, or even half a nut,
will enable a man to go without food and support great fatigue for
twenty-four hours or more. It is an excellent nerve tonic, and is espe¬
cially good for keeping the brain clear and active at night. It, how¬
ever, prevents sleep almost too thoroughly, and should not be taken
less than four hours before bed. — {The Times,')

July 13, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

33

- Weather at Liverpool. — Last week the heat was iatense,

•all kinds of vegetables showing greater signs of distress than has been
apparent this season, more particularly Lettuces, which were simply
scorched. Friday last was one of our hottest days, the thermometer on
a south wall registered over 100°, On Saturday welcome rain descended.
Sunday more rain fell in gentle showers, and on Monday at 11.30 a.m.
we had a thunder shower of unusual severity, which rendered spouts
and grids in many places quite incapable of taking away the immense
volume oE water. As I write (6.30 P.M., Monday) a steady rain is
falling. — R, P, R.

- The Queen and the Gardener. — A daily contemporary

says, “At the luncheon of the Council and Judges, held at the Royal
Botanical Gardens, Manchester, last week, Mr. Bruce Findlay, the Curator,
in proposing the health of the newly married Royal couple, said, ‘ I may
perhaps be excused for mentioning an incident (not a secret, inasmuch
as it is known to Her Majesty the Queen). In the year 1821 my father
was a gardener in the then Duke of York’s garden at Oatlands Park, in
Surrey. The Princess Victoria, then a baby, was in the garden with her
nurse and fell into a pool of water. My father, who was near at hand,
pulled the baby out of what might have been a watery grave.’ ”

- Mignonettes. — Somewhat of a surprise this wonderfully dry

season was it to see the extraordinary free growth from seed at Reading
of these hardy annuals. The product was as good at the seed farm
where there was no watering as at the nursery, where possibly beds
may have been watered. Out of the many varieties grown a few
seemed to stand out as specially good, and of these for purity of white¬
ness none excels the Double White, a variety that is not yet thoroughly
fixed, but doubtless will be so in good time. The best single white is
the Giant White, a first-rate variety for massing and cutting from.
Golden Queen is a really beautiful golden yellow, very true and of a
compact habit, and the Giant Red Pyramidal is the best of its section.
Those who like Mignonettes, and they are literally everybody, should
secure these four varieties at least. — D.

- Hail and Heat. — A correspondent, writing to the Standard,

says, “ It may interest readers to learn that this locality, Amisfield
Tower, near Dumfries, N.B., was visited, about half-past 12 to
1 P.M., July 8th, with a severe thunderstorm, with lightning accom¬
panied with very large hailstones, formed of solid ice, averaging from
3 to 4 inches in circumference, and were picked up by the writer to
5 inches ; it seems almost incredible. As a matter of course a large
quantity of glass in vineries has been destroyed, in many cases riddled
as if with rifle bullets. At the time the thermometer was 73° in shade.
Such a visitation is unknown to the oldest inhabitant.” The conjunction
of heavy hail and great heat is a characteristic of certain climatic belts
of the temperate zone. We have seen in South Africa, on a day when
the temperature was about 96° in the shade, hailstones fall which riddled
the corrugated iron verandah above our head till it resembled a colander.

- The Birkbeck Bank. — The forty-second annual meeting of

the Birkbeck Building Society was held on the 5th, at the offices,
29 and 30, Southampton Buildings, Chancery Lane. The report adopted
states that the receipts during the year which ended March 31st last
reached £12,169,030, making a total from the commencement of the
Society of £163,297,213. The deposits received were £9,857,817, and
the subscriptions £215,871. The gross profits amounted to £213,867.
The surplus funds now stand at £5,727,331, of which £1,670,210 is
invested in Consols and other securities guaranteed by the British
Government. Upwards of two millions (2,093,590) registered in the
books of the Governor and Company of the Bank of England. The
subscriptions and deposits withdrawable on demand amount to
£5,883,572. The new accounts opened during the year were 13,752,
and there are altogether 67,244 shareholders and depositors on the
books. Since its establishment the Society has returned to the share¬
holders and depositors £135,309,265, the whole amount having been
repaid upon demand. During the panic brought about in September
last by the collapse of the Liberator and its allied companies, the run
on the Birkbeck lasted eleven days, and £1,578,005 was withdrawn.
Only when it became known that every depositor could be paid in full
did the panic subside. So large has been the amount of deposits
received since that panic that the Directors have thought it prudent to
reduce the rate of interest on deposit accounts from March 3l8t, 1893,
to 2J per cent., a step which they believe has materially strengthened
the position of the Society, and which will enable them in future to
invest a still larger proportion of the funds entrusted to them in Consols
and other British Goverment securities.

- Potato Snowdrop. — With us this season the above-named

variety has yielded a wonderfully fine crop of handsome tubers, and the
quality has been first-rate. We planted a good breadth a yard distance
between the rows, and half that space between the sets, and the ground
was perfectly hidden by their vigorous stalks. In these gardens Potatoes
are not usually of good quality, the ground being too strong, but Snow¬
drop is an exception, and as a consequence obtains more space than other
sorts. It remains good, too, over a long season. For exhibition purposes
it is well suited, because of its clear skin and handsome form. It is a
very early variety to mature, and for this reason should be useful to those
having restricted garden space, because of planting the ground with
another winter crop after the Potatoes are lifted. Snowdrop is also a
good market Potato, that is where it grows as it does hereabouts. I have
seen no other sample in the greengrocers’ windows equal to this variety
up to now, or command the same prices. — W. Strugnell, Rood Ashton,

- Coal Tar to Protect Trees from Injurious Insects. —

Discussions continue as to whether coal tar is or is not injurious to the
bark of trees. It has often been recommended, in order to paint around
the base of trees that are liable to the attacks of borers — for instance
the Apple borer. Quince borer, and Peach borer. Certainly, the writer
has known of cases where it has been applied without the slightest
injury, while there are undoubted cases of treeshaving suffered by its
use. Just how this variation in effect comes about is not clear, nor does
it much matter to the practical man. If is safe to say that sometimes
coal tar so applied is a serious injury; but why use coal tar at all ?
Pine tar is just as effectual in preserving trees from the ravages ef these
noxious insects, and certainly does no damage to the tree. It is one of
the best preventives against the inroads of stem borers, that is, when
these borers operate near the ground, and it is also effectual in preserving
the trees from the ravages of mice in winter time. Many trees,
especially in regions where the ground is covered by snow in the winter
time, suffer seriously from the attacks of mice. — (^Meehans' Monthly,')

- Employment of Gas Lime. — Your correspondent “E. M.”

(page 9) may rest assured that I have advised the use of gas lime to
allotment holders only with the greatest possible care. A dressing is
laid on to vacant ground, especially that previously occupied, or to
be occupied with Onions, early in the winter, and allowed to become
disintegrated through the action of the frost, then forked in several
inches in depth a month at least before the ground is sown. Where
ground is trenched the dressing of gas lime should be put on after
that work is done, as it is the top several inches of soil that contain
the elements of harm in the shape of chrysaloids, of course that is
assuming that the top soil is kept on the surface in trenching, and is
not thrown into the bottom of the trench. I have read of a thin dress¬
ing of gas lime being advised to be strewn along the spaces between
the rows of the young Onion plants as giving off a perfume that is
obnoxious to the fly. That seems to be dangerous advice, especially
that it might lead to much tramping of the plants. I very much
doubt whether, having regard to the relative values of the two vege¬
tables, the present plague of maggots is not worse for Onions than is
the Peronospora infestans for Potatoes. In any case, apart from any
ameliorative action, more harm relatively seems to be done to the Onion
than to the Potato. Whosoever can devise any practical and perfect
cure for the Onion maggot will deserve well of his country. — A. D.

THE BEXLEY BEGONIAS.

“Not at home,” was the response to my inquiry at the door of Mr.
Horticultural Builder Burton on the occasion of a recent visit to the
Bexley Peacheries, and “ Not at home ” was the same dismal refrain
when after a mile and a half’s walk I reached the residence of Mr.
Begonia Pope, near the famous wayside hostelry known as the Old
Crook Log, Bexley Heath. It was a double disappointment, not tem¬
pered by the fact of having to take the sunny side of the familiar
reading, “ 90° in the shade, 120° in the sun ” for the aforesaid walk ;
but the Begonias had returned from Earl’s Court if the grower had
not, and so the danger of my disposition becoming as crooked as the
ancient billet itself was happily averted. at a

I ventured to pen a few remarks last year about Mr.

Ware’s Begonia Enterprise at Bexley, and am glad ^ to observe that
there has been a further advance in the high merits of his strains
during the past season. The novelties embrace some very beautiful and
distinct varieties, which can hardly fail to be widely sought after. The
inevitable Princess May was amongst them. It is a fringed double
flower, pure white and pleasing, by no means a commonplace addition
to the whites. More distinct is a magnificent seedling double, as yet
unnamed, the colour of which is not easily to be described. It is a rich,
brownish bronze with a deeper edge ; but the words give no adequate
idea of the unique shade the flower possesses. There is a sunset glow

84

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Jaly 13, 1893,

about it which cannot be transferred to paper. These bronzy hues
vary greatly ; but all are beautiful, and it is to be hoped that we shall
get many of them. Another bronzy double, a totally distinct type of
flower, is Iona, a light golden bronze of great beauty. Its blooms partake
of the Kanunculus shape, a clear break from the Hollyhock section.
Amongst many other good doubles the following may be noted : — Queen
Victoria, rosy blush, is a fine variety which received a certificate at
Earl’s Court ; the bloom is excellent, and the plant flowers freely. Mrs.
Fell, which w as seen last year, is a large and very fine salmon pink,
free and good ; Bexley Gem is a glowing carmine of great beauty,
representing a first-rate type of plant and flower. Rosebud is now
well known ; this charming little variety is becoming a universal
favourite. Alba Magna is an admirable type of white, flowers and habit
both being of the best. Beauty of Belgrove, soft silvery pink, free and
good in every way, may be taken as a standard variety in its colour
just as the comparatively old Henshaw Russell may be amongst the
scarlets. Brilliant, rich scarlet, a bold grower and free bloomer, is
another excellent red. Amongst the pinks one of the best is Pavona ;

FIG. 5. — CARNATION ATTACKED BY EELWORMS.

and Una, rosy pink, is equally pleasing. Of the yellows a prominent
position must be accorded to Duchess of Teck, an excellent sort in every
way. The flowers are light in colour, and might be described as lemon-
hued. Another light yellow is Solferino, but this is flushed with pink.
At the risk of making the list appear formidably long I add mention of
another trio — Viscountess Cranbrook, salmon red, with white centre ;
Jennie Fell, deep crimson, a Camellia-flowered variety of exceptional
charm, and Picotee.

The singles are quite as meritorious as the doubles, perhaps as a
whole they are even better. I commence with what is quite likely to
become one of the most popular of all, and that is Champion, a variety
in which flowers of a distinct and lovely golden bronze shade are asso¬
ciated with grand habit and foliage. Perfection, something in the same
way, was good, but Champion is far better. Then there is a light bronze
seedling with a faint Tea Rose odour ; I am sorry to be unable to dis¬
tinguish it by a name. When our friends get hold of a good thing why
do they not name it at once ? Angelina Scraggs would be better than
nothing. What is wanted is something to distinguish it by. Pride of
Bexley is a splendid type of white, and Sovereign of yellow. The
former has large and perfectly round pure white flowers freely borne,
and Sovereign, in addition to its excellent flowers, has grand foliage.
Bexley White is another splendid variety, larger than Pride of Bexley,
but less rounded. Lord Byron, scarlet with white centre ; Zanda, a
V ly large rosy red ; Alba Fimbriata, a white with round fringed flowers ;

Black Knight, very dark velvety crimson, well rounded, and a free
bloomer ; Magneta, vermilion ; Venus, rich dark crimson with white
centre ; Heroine, rich bronzy scarlet, well rounded and free ; Nerissa, a
glowing rose with immense flowers ; Superba, a fine light red ; and
Moravia, a crimson with flowers of perfect form, are all worth growing.
So is Sunset, a free and beautiful golden bronze. Other notabilities are
Marginata, white with a broad crimson margin ; Crimson Bedder, a
most vigorous and free flowering dark red ; Alba Marginata Fimbriata,
white with broad carmine edge ; and Goliath, a large bronzy buff with
immense foliage.

It is perhaps a little injudicious to name so many, but after all there
are many tastes to cater for. It is pleasing to be able to record that the
strong-stemmed and erect-flowered type of plant is being maintained.
Of the 200,000 plants out of doors it is yet too early to speak, but
judging by last season there will be as big a blaze as if the Old Crook
Log had caught fire by-and-by. For this, however, we must have a few
lapses from the 120° in the sun reading, otherwise the season will be too
dry to give them a fair chance. — W. P, W.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY’S FOUR DAYS’

SHOW.

As regards the above subject, I, as a grower and exhibitor of fruit,
entirely concur with the remarks of the correspondents, “ A Fruit
Grower and Exhibitor,” and “A Midland Counties Fruit Grower”
(page 9). A four-days show may be some advantage to the Royal
Horticultural Society, but I think the Council should be reminded
that it is a serious matter for exhibitors to absent themselves from
home for nearly a week, and at the same time expose their employer’s
property to the parching heat and dust of the Agricultural Hall till it
is completely ruined. During the past few weeks I have heard men
well qualified to give an opinion say that unless the period of the Show
is shortened many would-be exhibitors may go elsewhere, and this is
the course which will be adopted by — F.R.H.S.

[Our correspondent is one of the best and most successful exhibitors,]

ROYAL BOTANIC SOCIETY’S EVENING FETE.

July 5th.

An evening floral fete was held in the gardens of the Royal Botanic
Society, Regent’s Park, on Wednesday, July 5th. Fine weather prevailed,
and the gardens were brilliantly illuminated. Prizes were offered for
dinner table decorations, groups of plants, bouquets, and other floral
arrangements, and in most classes the exhibits were very good. Several
exhibits of plants and flowers, not for competition, came from various
nurserymen. These included a grand collection of Roses from Messrs.
W. Paul & Sons, and hardy flowers from Messrs. Barr & Sons and
J. Cheal & Sons.

In the competitive classes Messrs. Osier & Co., 100, Oxford Street, W.,
were awarded the first prize for a dinner-table decoration, Mr. W. P. J.
Youens, Tower Cottage, Dartford, Kent, being the other prizewinner.
Miss M. V. Seale was first for a table decoration for dessert, the other
prizes going to Messrs. Osier & Co., and Miss M. Gardner, Park House,
St. John’s Wood Park, N.W., respectively. The last-named exhibitor
received a silver medal for her arrangement of a buffet. The class for
the decoration of a supper table brought forward some admirable work,
the exquisite use of Shirley Poppies gaining for Mr. J. R. Chard, Bruns¬
wick Nurseries, Stoke Newington, N., the first prize. Other successful
competitors were Mrs. Howard White, and Mr. H. O. Garford, the Floral
Depot, Stoke Newington. Mrs. H. 0. Garford was first for her arrange¬
ment of an epergne, while the second and third prizes were awarded to
Miss Alice Perkins and Messrs. Osier respectively. The silver medal for
flowers for personal adornment was awarded to Messrs. Perkins & Sons.
For a bridal bouquet, Messrs. Harwood Bros., Balham Nurseries, Balham,
were first ; Messrs. Perkins & Sons, and Mr. J. Russell, Devonshire
Nursery, Haverstock Hill, N.W., being second and third ; and for a
ballroom bouquet Messrs. Harwood Bros, were first, Mrs. H. O. Garford
and Miss Minnie Barrett being second and third respectively.

Mr. H. 0. Garford, Messsrs. Perkins & Sons, Coventry, and Mr. R.
Potter, gardener to Sir Mark Collet, Sevenoaks, were awarded the prizes
for a sideboard decoration in the order of their names ; while in the use
of hardy flowers for sideboard ornamentation the successful competitors
were Mrs. M. Gardner and Mrs. E. Sperling of Southend. Mr. R. Scott,
gardener to Miss Foster, The Holme, Regent’s Park, was first for his
decoration of a window ; and for a group of plants in a recess Mr. W.
Chalk, Langworth, Streatham Hill, following in both classes.

DISEASES OF CARNATIONS.

Few, if any, garden plants have of late years suffered from disease
to an equal extent with Carnations. The chief ailments are one caused
by microscopic eelworms, and two caused by parasitic fungi. One of
the latter, although widespread and virulent, has, as far as I know,
never been described as British till a brief notice was published in
the Jo^irnal of Horticulture on June 15th last, page 480. At any
rate it is not given in any text books of the most recent date.

A few weeks ago a correspondent of the Journal of Horticulture
sent examples of “ Malmaison ” Carnations infested with eelworms
to a degree I had never seen before. The stems were swollen, and in
several instances the leaves were spirally twisted as if writhing in agony.

July 13, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

35

Attacks of parasitic fnngi commonly cause a similar twisting. In this
district, Poppies, which are extremely common in the cornfields, are
frequently attacked by a Peronospora (an ally of the Potato fungus),
and this attack causes the flower stems to become twisted into inextri¬
cable knots with the flowers and seed vessels pointing downwards as
frequently as upwards, or involved in the knots of the twisted stems.

An example of a Carnation stem, swollen in the middle and with
leaves twisted with disease, is illustrated in fig. 5. The disease spots
are white and semi-transparent ; when held to the light the inner
substance of the leaves is seen to have been eaten away. If a small
portion of the leaf, taken from the neighbourhood of the disease spots,
is placed under the microscope, eel worms young and old, and male and
female, with a vast number of eggs, will be seen as illustrated at
A, B, and c. In a diseased Carnation plant these minute animals exist
apparently in uncountable numbers. The name of the eelworm is Tylen-
chus devastatrix, KiiTin. The minute transparent eggs, with the young
coiled up inside, are shown at A, and the young just emerged from the
eggs at B, enlarged 200 diameters. An adult female example is
shown enlarged to 100 diameters at C. The male differs slightly from
the female, but for all practical horticultural purposes the illustration
will answer for both sexes. In some eelworms the sexes differ greatly
from each other in general form. I have grown Carnations from a
single diseased plant for eight years in succession ; every season the
old plants have been burnt and new plants secured from layers
apparently free from disease, yet every season the new Carnation plants
have swarmed with eelworms. The plants become equally diseased in
the open garden and greenhouse. This fact shows how necessary it is
when plants once become infested to entirely destroy them, every frag¬
ment from a diseased plant seems to bear the eggs of the eelworm (or
Nematode) in its tissues. The minute animals live and breed chiefly
inside the leaves, and the transparent spots are caused by the tissues
being eaten away. The worms are easily destroyed by caustic solutions,
but as the creatures live within the stem and leaves it is almost
impossible to get at them. The attack of eelworms or threadworms
frequently comes from infested earth or water, and plants are at
once attacked by Nematodes if grown in earth containing chopped up
diseased material or if watered with water in which infested plants
have been broken up and introduced. Tylenchus devastatrix is common
in a living state in dung ; the animal infests Clover and Grasses, and
passes in a living state and uninjured through the intestines of sheep,
oxen, horses, and other animals.

Mr. John J. Willis has experimented with success at Harpenden on
infested Clover fields, but experiments made on acres of land seem
hardly applicable to a limited number of Carnations in a flower garden.
Mr. Willis, as reported by Miss E. A. Ormerod, found that sulphate of
ammonia and sulphate of potash together at the rate of 4 cwt. per acre
acted most effectually. Sulphate of iron at the rate of 2 cwt. per acre
caused the attack of Tylenchus to cease, but half this amount did not
entirely check the attack. Infested earth can be successfully treated
with gas lime — see the leaflet by the late Dr. Aug. Voelcker on “ Com¬
position and Uses of Gas Lime,” published by the Royal Agricultural
Society of England. For other methods of treatment see the number
of the Journal of Horticulture already quoted. This disease was first
noticed in this country in the autumn of 1881, and an illustration
and description was published in the “ Gardeners’ Chronicle ” for
December 3rd, 1881.

The disease caused by a parasite fungus named Helminthosporium
echinulatum, H., has been known since 1870, when a description and
small illustration was publishsd in the “ Gardeners’ Chronicle ” for
March 19th, of that year. It was again illustrated in greater detail in the
same journal for August 2l8t, 1886. A fragment of a Carnation leaf
attacked by the Helminthosporium (a brown fungus mould), is illustrated
natural size at D (fig. 6). It will be observed that the fungus grows on
both sides of the leaf in a concentric fashion; a minute spot first
appears, next a ring round that spot, then a larger ring, one outside the
other, till in bad cases the rings become confluent and the foliage is soon
utterly destroyed. The fungus in a fruiting state is superficial, but the
mycelium, or spawn from which the fungus arises, is partially within the
membranes of the leaf. The parasite, of course, lives by abstracting and
living upon the vital juices of the host plant. The fungus itself as seen
under the microscope and enlarged 300 diameters is shown at E. It bears
a vast number of jointed spores ; at first these spores are simple or with¬
out joints, but at length each spore becomes divided into from two to
six parts, the spores are faintly brown in colour and covered with
almost invisibly minute spines. At maturity the spores break to
pieces at the joints, and every fragment is capable of reproducing
the disease. These fragments are doubtlessly carried in the air in
millions, and many probably hibernate in the open ground through the
winter. They certainly hibernate in greenhouses, Sometimes this
Helminthosporium infests Sweet vv illiams, and a fungus not to be dis¬
tinguished from the Carnation fungus frequently grows on Ornitho-
galum and perhaps other plants. The parasite is a close ally of the
fungus which causes the worst form of Tomato disease. Hand-picking
of diseased leaves has been recommended as a remedy. As the parasite
lives partly within the leaf it is most difficult to get at, although spray¬
ing with a fungicide might stop its growth; the safer and more effectual
Potato fungus solutions might also be tried. The almost unlimited
power of spore production in the Helminthosporium makes its position
almost unassailable.

The third parasite illustrated at P is as destructive as the other two.
The fungus which causes the mischief is known as Uromyces

caryophyllinus, Schreet, It is illustrated natural size at F. I have
known it and its effects for many years, but I think this is the first time
it has been illustrated in this country. The fungus is an ally of the
Hollyhock fungus and the red rust of corn. It grows wholly within the
leaf, which it distorts, and it ultimately bursts the membrane of both
sides for the emission of the spores. A small fragment of a Carnation
leaf attacked by Uromyces is shown in section at G, enlarged 50 diameters
to show the spore pustules rupturing the leaf membranes above and
below. Two sets of spores are produced. The spores illustrated at
H, enlarged 300 diameters, are called Uredo spores, these are orange in
colour and covered with minute spines, they are produced in inconceiv¬
able numbeis and quickly germinate upon Carnation leaves. The germ-
tubes from the spores gain access to the interior of the leaves by the
stomata and then quickly form new pustules. This process is repeated
till in bad cases all the foliage is involved in disease. Towards the end
of the flowering season resting spores are formed as illustrated at i,
enlarged 300 diameters. These resting spores are somewhat darker in
colour than the Hredo spores ; they are furnished with a much thicker

FIG. 6. — CAENATION FOLIAGE ATTACKED BY HELMINTHOSPOEIUM (D)

AND UEOMYCES (F).

membrane or skin, and are smooth. The resting spores hil^rnate
through the winter in dead Carnation refuse, and germinate in this
decaying material in or on the ground in the spring, at which time they
make their attack on previously unaffected Carnations. In greenhouses
the fungus grows continuously all through the winter by its Uredo
spores ; it however frequently produces resting spores in the same
pustules with the Uredo spores. This latter fact shows how necessary
it is to burn or deeply bury all disease-infected garden material.
Uromyces caryophyllinus is not confined to the Carnation — Dianthus
Caryophyllus, but occurs on D. supeibus and D. prolifer.

As this fungus grows entirely within the plant attacked, it is
obviously most difficult to reach either by sponging or spraying. It is
reported that the ravages of the Potato fungus as well as of other fungi
whose habit is to grow within the tissues of the host plant have been
checked by spraying : if the reports are correct similar good results
might follow the spraying of diseased Carnations. If diseased and
dying plants cannot be saved, disease can be prevented from spreading
by clean gardening, plenty of air in greenhouses, and the destruction of
all tainted material. If a plant attacked by Uromyces is placed in a
greenhouse the disease will at once spread with terrible rapidity to
other plants in the house. Mr. Mai tin K. Smith informs me that this
fungus seems powerless w’ith him out of doors, and that varieties v/ith
exceptionally blue foliage resist its attacks. Mr. Smith says that

86

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 13, 1893.

CJojidy’s fluid kills the fungus, and that two applications with the syringe
or sponge are generally successful. Permanganate of potassium in
water, which is of the same nature with Condy’s fluid, is a very cheap
material, and has often been used with good effect as a remedy for plant
diseases.

A few other fungi sometimes spread to Carnations from Lychnis and
other genera of the Caryophyllacem, hut the two here described are the
chief depredators. Carnations too are frequently attacked by the
larvae of insects. — Wobthington G. Smith, BunstaUe.

SUNNINGDALE PARK.

The village of Sunningdale is a charming place, the air being fresh
and pure, not affected by the smokes of London, despite the fact
that it is very little over twenty miles from the metropolis. On the
occasion of a recent visit to the neighbourhood I was struck with the
healthy green foliage of the trees, and this after such a long drought.
I called at Sunningdale Park, the beautiful seat of Major Joicey, and
asked for the permission to view the gardens. This request was readily
accorded by the skilful and courteous gardener, Mr. T. J. Thorne.

Before going to the gardens we walked round the park, and here it
was observed that many alterations were being carried out. Huge
mounds had been gradually carted away to be deposited where it was
thought the natural beauty of the place would be enhanced thereby.
The improvements thus effected are most marked now, though they are
as yet only in their infancy, and when the whole is finished there will
be many splendid views through the trees. In front of the mansion a
lake has been formed, and with the addition of a small waterfall it will
be one of the most charming spots on the estate. Rhododendrons
form an attractive feature, for thousands have been planted, and
though at the time of my visit the best of the blooms were gone, some
perfect trusses of beautifully coloured fiowers were still to be seen.
And how well the plants all looked 1 Many of them have only been
planted for seven months, and the majority between one and two
years ; but even the most recently planted ones have made wonderful
growth, and the young foliage presents a healthy green appearance.
They are planted in a loamy soil with an admixture of peat, such as
can be obtained from the woods on the estate, and farmyard manure,
and they revel in it. What a magnificent display they will make a
few years hence !

The principal drive to the mansion, lined on each side with hardy
evergreen shrubs, including many of the best Rhododendrons, is
splendidly lit with the electric light, as also is the house itself. When
the shrubs were in flower it must have looked grand either in the day¬
time or at night, when the soft mellow light from the electric lamps
was diffused around and over them. The engineer very kindly allowed
me to look at the machinery and engines by which the place is lighted ;
and the cleanliness which pervaded the whole place was most noticeable.
From here we journeyed to the lawns, which are extensive, and amongst
the finest I have seen this season ; when at the lower part a charming
view of a corner of the mansion is afforded by breaks in the trees and
over mounds of green turf.

Equally at home in the fruit and kitchen gardens as in the park and
pleasure grounds is Mr, Tho] ne, for they are all splendidly kept. Perhaps
the most striking feature in the fruit garden is the extraordinary number
of Strawberries. Noble is planted in abundance, as also is John Ruskin,
and both were carrying superb crops oi their delicious fruits at the time
of my visit. President and Dr. Hogg were producing abundance of
fruit, which ripens when the two first named have long been over.
Gooseberries, Raspbeiries, and Currants are bearing heavily. Pears are
fair and Apples light, the fruit, owing to the long-continued drought,
not having set well. In the houses, some new ranges of which have
been erected recently, everything bears the stamp of health. Peaches
are looking particularly well, there being an abundant supply of both ripe
and unripe fruits. Size does not appear to be a desideratum either with
these or Grapes, a number of medium sized fruits and bunches being the
object in view. Early Dagmar Peach is grown for early use, it being a
good cropper and of very fine flavour. A number of Pines plunged in
a bed of leaves in a house in which Crotons are grown look well. Many
of the plants are carrying grand fruits, some of which were almost ripe
while others were still in the green state. One of the finest fruits was
on a plant of Charlotte Rothschild and another on the Queen. In the
kitehen garden some rows of Exonian Pea are very prominent. The
crop is a very heavy one and the pods of good size and remarkably well
filled. In height Exonian grows from 3 to 4 feet, and is the best early
Pea I have seen this season. Chelsea Gem is also largely grown, but
the one previously named is decidedly earlier.

The ranges of houses devoted to floriculture and the flower garden
look bright and clean. In the latter Roses form the chief attraction,
and are a source of never ending pleasure to all who love flowers. There
are no formal-looking beds, they are not appreciated ; everything is
planted so that Nature may lend her aid in intensifying the charms of
the plants. The houses, of which several have been recently erected,
are splendidly built and well furnished with flowering and foliage plants.
A brilliant scarlet Carnation, the flowers of which combine perfect
form with grand substance, was very noticeable. It is a seedling of Mr.
Thorne’s raising, and has been named by him “ Mrs. Joicey.” Orchids,
too, are a feature here, as mentioned in the Journal of Horticulture for
June 22nd, page 495. When the houses it is proposed to build are
finished, and the alterations in the park and gardens carried out, Sun¬
ningdale Park will be a grand estate. — W.

NATIONAL CARNATION AND PICOTEE SOCIETY.

(SoHTHEEN Section.)

Ip the Southern Show of the National Carnation Society is early
this year it was by no means the failure that some easily frightened
people anticipated. True, some growers were unable to poll their usual
strength, Mr. Sydenham, for example ; but most of the leading ex¬
hibitors staged extremely well, and the Show as a whole was an excellent
one.

There were three stands of twenty-four Carnations, and after a good
struggle between Messrs. Douglas (gardener to Mrs. Wbitbourn) and
Turner, the former was placed first. Both had very good stands. Mr.
Douglas’s flowers were as follows — Back row : Tim Bobbin (2), Charles
Henwood (2), S. Adams, Lady Mary Currie, and two seedlings. Middle
row ; Miss Constance Grahame, Harmony, Agricola (2), Arthur Med-
hurst, and three seedlings. Front row : Mrs. Douglas, Edward
Rowan (2), Miss Constance Grahame, Robert Lord, and three seedlings.
Of Mr. Turner’s smooth, fresh collection Charles Henwood, Harmony,
Dr. Hogg, and Lord Lewisham were some of the best flowers. Mr.
Hooper of Bath was third. Mr. Martin Rowan, 3G, Manor Street,
Clapham, won with twelve. His flowers were somewhat thin and flat,
the varieties being Robert Houlgrave, George Melville, J. S. Hedderley,
Alfred (2), J. D. Hextall, Joe Edwards, John Buxton, Gordon Lewis,
Sportsman, Edward Rowan, and Rob Roy. Mr. A. R. Brown, Hands-
worth, Birmingham, was second — not far in the rear. His flowers were
larger than those of Mr. Rowan, but one or two had fallen and weakened
the stand. Mr. Chaundy, New Marston, Oxford, was third ; Messrs.
Thomson & Co. fourth ; Mr. R. Sydenham, Birmingham, fifth ; Mr.
Chas. Phillips, 18, Hamilton Road, Reading, sixth ; Mr. J. Walker, Thame,
seventh ; and Mr. Thomas Antiss, Brill, eighth. There were four stands
of six, Mr. J. J. Keen, Southampton, being first with Squire Potts,
James Douglas, Alisemond, C. H. Herbert, Robert Houlgrave, and John
Keet. It was not a good stand, C. H. Herbert and Robert Houlgrave
being anything but first rate. Mr. A. Greenfield, Sutton, was second ;
Mr. A. J. Sanders, gardener to Viscountess Chewton, third ; and Mr.
Nutt, Southampton, fourth.

There were three stands of twenty-four Picotees, Mr. Turner being
first, Mr. Douglas second, and Mr. Hooper third. The Slough grower
had a fairly good stand, the varieties being (back row) Lady Catherine
Gordon, Esther (2), Favourite (2), Little Phil (2), and Brunette. (Middle,
row) Sylvia, Mrs. Sam Beal (2), Brunette, Lady Ponsonby, Dr. Epps,
Mrs. Tweedale, and Zerlina ; (front row). Dr. Epps, John Archer, Made¬
line (2), Morna (2), Lady Holmesdale, and Mrs. Tweedale. Mr. Douglas
had good blooms of Jessie, Ganymede, and Mrs. Sharp, but, as a whole, the
flowers were a little thin. The first of the nine stands of twelve was that
from Messrs. Thomson & Co., their flowers being very bright, clean, and
fresh. The varieties were Mrs. Sharp, Little Phil, Brunette, Zerlina,
Favourite, Amy Robsart, Campanini, John Smith, Dr. Huxley, J. Wil¬
liams, and Mrs. Burnett. Mr. A. R. Brown was second with thin but
clean flowers, Mr. Rowan third, Mr. Chaundy fourth, Mr. Phillips fifth,
Mr. Sydenham sixth, Mr. Walker seventh, and Mr. Sanders eighth.
There were seven stands of six, Mr. Jones winning with a beautiful
box made up of Little Phil, Norman Carr, Clara Pearson, Mrs. Payne,
Campanini, and Brunette. These were all good flowers. Little Phil
being very fine. Mr. J. P. Sharp was second with somewhat rough
flowers, Mr. Greenfield third, Mr. Ribbick fourth, Mr. Keen fifth, Mr.
Jordan sixth, and Mr. J. Gilbert, gardener to the Rev. L. R. Flood,
seventh.

Fellow grounds w'ere quite as great a feature as the whites. Mr.
Chas. Blick, gardener to Martin R. Smith, Esq., Beckenham, had a
splendid stand of twelve, consisting of Dorothy, Madame John Denary,
Almira, Lohengrin, Annie Douglas, Mrs. R. Sydenham, Chrysolora,
Countess of Jersey, Remembrance, Stadtrath Bail, Cowslip, and Optimus
in beautiful order. Mr. Turner was second, also with a charming box,
Annie Douglas, Almira, and Mrs. R. Sydenham being particularly
noticeable. Mr. Douglas was third, Mr. Phillips fourth, Messrs.
Thomson & Co. fifth, Mr. Chaundy sixth, and Mr. Anstiss seventh.
There were thirteen stands of six, and they formed a lovely display.
Mr. Jones won with Stadtrath Bail (a grand bloom), Lord Rendlesham,
Victory, Almira, Mrs.Robt. Sydenham, and Atalanta, a splendid stand.
Mr. Brown was second, Mr. Sydenham third, Mr. Chas. Harden fourth,
Mr. Hooper and Mr. Nutt equal fifth, Mr. Keen sixth, and Mr. Henwood
seventh.

The Selfs and Fancies were also a lovely display. Mr. Turner had
a grand stand of twenty-four, the flowers being well filled and in
beautiful colour. The back row blooms were Janira, Germania (2),
King of Scarlets (2), and Romulus. Second row : Schlieben, Gladys,
Terra Cotta, Mr. Murray, The Governor, and Stadtrath Bail. Third
row : Mrs. Laing, Dorothy, Mrs. Fred. Romulus, Ruby, and Rose Unique.
Front row : Gladys, Rose Unique, Mrs. Wilson, White Lady, Duchess of
Sutherland, and Edith Wynne. Mr. Douglas was a good second, and Mr.
Blick third, and Mr. Hooper fourth. Messrs. Thomson & Co. won with
twelve, his varieties being Firefly, Attraction, King of Purples, Germania,
F. Phillips, Mrs. Reynolds Hole, Mrs. Fred Gilbert, Celson’s Santazza,
and two seedlings. Mr. A. R. Brown was second with a very clean
bright stand, Mr. Phillips third, Mr. Chundy fourth, Mr. Walker fifth,
Mr. Rowan sixth, and Mr. Harden seventh. Mr. Harden won with
Dodwell’s 1G7, Victory, Favourite, Mdme. Van Houtte, Harmony, and
Lady Mary Currie in the class for six Carnations and Picotees ; and of
the seven stands of six Selfs and Fancies Mr. Jones won with Norman
Carr, Almira, Stadtrath Bail, Lord Rendlesham, Germania and Gladys,
all good flowers. Mr. J. F. Kew, Southend, was second with large

July 13, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

87

flowers, Mr. Jordan third, Mr, Henwood fourth, Mr. Nutt fifth, Mr.
Eebbeck sixth, and Mr. Spurling seventh.

The following were the awards for single blooms. Scarlet bizarres. —
Mr. Rowan first and fifth with Robt. Houlgrave, Mr. Douglas second
with a seedling, Mr. Sydenham third with Robt. Lord, and Messrs.
Thomson & Co. fourth with C. H. Herbert. Crimson bizarres. — Mr.
Sydenham first with Master Fred and fifth with Lord Salisbury, Mr.
Douglas third with Tim Bobbin, Mr. Rowan third with Jessica, and Mr.
Phillips fourth with John Harland. Pink and purple bizarres. — Mr.
Douglas was first with Reliance, Mr. Greenfield second with W. Skirving,
Mr. Rowan third and Mr. Brown fourth with the same variety, the
latter fifth with Mrs. Barlow. Scarlet flake. — Messrs. Thomson & Co,
first with J. P. Sharp, Mr, Rowan second and fourth with Sportsman,
Mr. Phillips third with the same variety ; and Mr. Brown fifth with Mr.
Gordon. Purple flake. — Mr. Turner first with Charles Henwood, Mr.
Rowan second with Gordon Lewis, Mr. Douglas third and fourth with
Mrs, Douglas, Mr. Brown fifth with Billy Henderson. Rose flake. — Mr.
Rowan first with Rob Roy, and fourth with Crista Galli, Mr. Chaundy
second and third with Rob Roy, Mr. Brown fifth with Mr. Cooling.
Heavy red edge Picotees. — Mr. Turner first with Morna, Mr. Brown
second with Brunette, Mr. Phillips third and fourth with Morna, Mr.
Douglas fifth with Ganymede. Light red edge. — Mr. Jones first
with Mrs. Gorton and third with Thomas William, Mr. Rowan
second with Mrs. Gorton, Messrs. Thomson & Co, fourth and
Mr. Brown fifth with Thomas William, Heavy purple edge. —
Mr, Keen first with Amy Robsart, Mr. Jones second with the same
variety and fourth with Muriel, Mr. Rowan third with Muriel and fifth
with Amy Robsart. Light purple edge. — Mr. Rowan first with Mary,
Messrs. Thomson & Co. second with Edith, Mr. Brown third with Pride
of Leyton, Mr, Douglas fourth with Ann Lord, Mr. Keen fifth with
Pride of Leyton. Heavy rose edge. — Mr. Jones first with Campanini
and third with Mrs. Payne, Mr. Turner second with Little Phil, Mr.
Rowan fourth with Little Phil, and Messrs. Thomson & Co. fifth with
Mrs. Burnett. Light rose edge. — Mr, Brown first and third with Mrs.
Ricardo, Mr. Phillips second with Ethel and fourth with a seedling, Mr.
Keen fifth with Ethel. Heavy scarlet edge. — Mr. Jones first with Mrs.
Sharp, Messrs, Thomson & Co. second with the same variety, Mr. Keen
fourth with Mrs. Sharp, and Mr. Douglas fifth with the same variety.
There was no name with the third prize flower. Light scarlet edge. —
Mr. Jones first with Favourite, Mr. Turner second, Mr. Brown third, and
Mr. Keen fifth with the same variety, Mr. Douglas fourth with a seed¬
ling. Yellow grounds. — Mr. Jones first, Mr. Phillips third, and Mr.
Douglas fourth with Mrs. Robt. Sydenham, Mr. Turner fifth with
Countess of Jersey. The second prize bloom was also Mrs. R. Sydenham,
but the name of the prizewinner was missing.

The border Carnations were much admired by all visitors. Mr,
Martin Smith had a most beautiful collection not for competition, to
which a silver Flora medal was adjudged. In the competition for nine
varieties Mr. Douglas won, but his flowers were not named ; Mr. Hooper
was second ; Mr. W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall Gardens, Stamford, third ;
and Mr, John Walker, Thame, fourth. Mr. Douglas was also victorious
with six, Messrs. Walker, Thomson & Co., Divers, and Hooper taking the
other prizes. Mr. Sage won the first of Mr. Martin Smith’s prizes for
twelve trusses, Mr. B. C. Goble the second, Mr, Douglas the third, Mr.
Divers the fourth, and Mr. Barton the fifth. The prizes for buttonholes
went to Messrs. Douglas, Thomson & Co., Walker, and Goble in the order
of their names ; for vases to Messrs. Douglas, Goble, and Thomson ; for
sprays to Messrs. Thomson, Walker, Goble, and Douglas. Messrs,
Douglas and Turner were first and second with pot plants.

Mr. T. S. Ware had a beautiful display of Carnations not for com¬
petition, and was awarded a silver Banksian medal.

HORTICULTURAL SHOWS.

DISS. — July 4th.

For five years in succession this small but vigorous Society has
suffered from wet days on the date chosen for the Rose Show, but the
weather was this year most propitious for the occasion ; and, much as
the country requires rain, everyone at Diss must have been glad that at
last, just for once, “ Flower Show ” ceased to be synonymous with
“ Shower Flow.” The Exhibition was held at Hall Hills, the residence
of Mrs, Downton, and Roses of course were weak, as they are throughout
the country ; but the Show on the whole was a good one.

For thirty-six (open) Mr. F. Cant was first, having good examples of
Mrs. John Laing and The Bride. D. Prior & Son were second, including
a specimen of Black Prince, which has been good this year. In the class
for twenty-four , (amateurs) a capital set-to took place for the Frere
Memorial challenge cup between the old rivals, the Rectors of Harkstead
and Sproughton. Rev. A. Foster-Melliar had a clear lead, and retained
the cup for the third year in succession. Lord Macaulay, Mrs. John
Laing, and Marie Baumann being among his best ; but Rev. H. A.
Berner’s gardener was decidedly a good second, having a fine light
coloured Horace Vernet and a beautiful John Bright. This bloom won
the N.R.S. medal as the best H.P., but though lovely in colour it was
badly divided, and a Le Havre in the same box would perhaps have
better merited the distinction. Rev, F. Page Roberts was third, showing
Comte Raimbaud well.

In the class for twelve Roses Mr. Berners was first, and Mr. Page
Roberts second. With twelve Teas Mr. Foster-Melliar was first, showing
Catherine Mermet and Marie Van Houtte well. In this box and in

his twenty-four were blooms which had been shown at the Crystal
Palace. Mr. Berners was second, showing a very clean Madame Hoste,
which gained the medal as best Tea, and a fine Innocente Pirola, In the
two local classes Mr. Hammond of Eye won, showing stands of con¬
siderable promise.

The herbaceous plant classes are fast becoming one of the features at
Diss Show. It is very noticeable how the good example of Mr. Page
Roberts, the Hon. Secretary, has caused these flowers to be taken up in
the neighbourhood. Diss is but a small place, yet there were here four
classes for thirty-six, twenty-four, eighteen, and twelve, and each of
them was well filled by amateurs alone. Rev. Page Roberts, Mr.
J. Tudor Frere, Mrs. Norris, Mr. J, C. Collins, and Rev. C. James were
the principal winners, the latter obtaining the silver medal for excellence
of cultivation. Neither Norwich nor Ipswich, shows of more than double
the size, had such a grand or interesting display of herbaceous plants.

Vegetables were good, especially the collections shown for the prizes
offered by Messrs. Sutton & Sons. Seven groups of plants were shown,
the first prize going to Mr. F. Taylor, M.P. Six dinner tables were
decorated by ladies in competition, Shirley Poppies and Grasses winning
as they always will.

BROCKHAM,— July 4th.

Rose growers will not easily forget the season of 1893. If anything
can make a gardener morose it is a prolonged drought. The Brockham
Rose Show was fixed for July 4th. It was seen long before that this was
much too late. But shows cannot easily be shifted, and in this case a
change was not possible. The twenty-ninth Show was held at Denbies,
the seat of Lord and Lady Ashcombe, on July 4th, and it was the first
appearance in that widely known and most beautiful place. The tent
supplied by Messrs. Kendall of Dorking was pitched on the lawn near
the house, close by the Beech Walk and surrounded by trees of exceeding
beauty. Everything that could be done to help the Show had been
done by Lord Ashcombe, and his courteous and most obliging gardener,
Mr. Beesley.

It would not be possible, within the limit allowed for this article, to
give a full account of the beauties of Denbies. When once you have
reached the top of the hill on which the house stands, you forget the
past and give yourself up to the full enjoyment of all that can be
seen, which implies the grandest of Surrey scenery, and the most
extensive views of the ranges of hills near and far, with the town of
Dorking, picturesque, compact, and well to do, lying at your feet. To
enjoy this thoroughly you should go to the roof of the house and look
down upon it, as we, the Committee and the Judges, were invited to do by
Lord Ashcombe who personally conducted us. And one of the first things
you would notice would probably be the dozen or so lightning conductors
of the approved type, one being attached to each chimney. It certainly
is a very wide area, but seldom, if ever, would be seen such a pro¬
vision against lightning.

On descending, an inspection of the greenhouses (one can walk
under glass for more than 600 yards) and gardens was made. In the
former all the plants looked the picture of health, and plants both new
and old were in great profusion. Bignonia Tueri was very conspicuous,
one plant blooming at the ridge of the high conservatory, another plant
with hundreds of blooms rambling at great length within reach.
Bignonia jasminoides was in very vigorous condition. Grevillea robusta
grown as a creeper 20 feet high, was somewhat a curiosity ; the Japan
Medlar, Limes, Lemons, Tree Tomatoes (like an Egg Plant), Daturas,
Ganna Ehmani (grand flower), Eucryphia pinnatifolia (like a wild
Rose), Erythrina crista-galli (called the Coral Tree) with a deep
crimson lobster looking bloom (this was in the open under cover of the
wall). Fuchsia fulgens and Salvia patens left out in the open all the
winter, and great numbers of climbing Begonias, Fuchsias, with many
other plants made these conservatories an horticultural treat.

In the outside garden mention only can be made of Torreya myristica
(like a Yew), Abies pungens glauca (the gift of Mr. Appleby and
planted in honour of Lord Ashcombe’s promotion to the peerage),
beds of Golden Thujas, Japanese Maples (Acers), Himalayan Rhodo¬
dendrons (that had not stood the drought well), a fine weeping Lime
Tree, a Himalayan Larch raised from seed given by Sir W. Hooker,
Fern-leaved Beech, Sequoia, Abies grandis, Picea Lasiocarpa, P. Pindrow,
and a fine Cryptomeria japonica, 40 high at least though planted in
1857, and a good specimen of Prunus Pissardi, and mention must also
be made of the fact that over-ripe specimens of Beurrd Gifford Pears
were growing on the walls, although July had only just opened.

Entering the exhibition tent the visitor would be led to exclaim,
“ What a splendid show ! ” and so indeed it was. But an explanation is
called for. " The splendour was greatly due to no less than twelve large
boxes of blooms cut from the Cheshunt Nurseries, and brought by Mr. G.
Paul himself to help the Show, which, without these Roses, would have
made a very poor comparison with former Brockham Rose Shows,
Amongst his flowers were these : Mad, Pierre Gochet (an improved
W. A. Richardson), Gustave Piganeau, Earl of Dufferin, Marie Magat,
Waban, the new Tea (a sport of Catherine Mermet), T. B. Haywood,
Dowager Duchess of Marlborough with a wonderful scent, a Cheshunt
seedling, Duke of Wellington, Charles Gater, and Camille Bernardin
and The Bride.

Mr, Appleby of the Boxhill Nurseries also greatly helped the Show
by staging many decorative plants of Crotons, Dracfenas, Palms, Glox¬
inias, and Ferns, and a box of very fresh Roses, in which Niphetos,
Mardchal Niel, Mrs. J. Laing, Her Majesty, Earl of Dufferin, Etoile de
Lyon, and A. K. Williams were conspicuous. The drought was account-

38

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

C July 13, 1893.

able for the comparatively poor show made by the exhibitors. Many of
the sixty-four members had no Roses to cut, and some of the classes
were not represented at all. Mr. Tate and Mr. Cuthell had it all their
own way in the three first classes, as indeed they had last year as well.
It is discouraging of course to the smaller exhibitors to see year by year
this state of things, but it is a difficulty that committees seem to find it
impossible to deal with.

In class 1, for twenty-four Roses, Mr. Tate was easily first, and the
following Roses won for him the National Rose Society’s gold medal.
Xavier Olibo, Ernest Metz the best Rose in the Show ; Madame G.
Luizet, Rosieriste Jacobs, Charles Lamb, Her Majesty, Earl of Dufferin,
Dr. Andry, La Rosiere, The Bride, Duchess of Bedford, Lady Mary Fitz-
william, Ulrich Brunner, Anna Ollivier, Charles Lefebvre, Mrs. J. Laing,
Horace Vernet, Marichal Niel, Marie Baumann, Comtesse de Nadaillac,
Beauty of Waltham, Maurice Bernardin, Francisca Kruger, and Alfred
Colomb. Mr. Cuthell took second prize (N.R.S. silver medal), with
Paul Neyron, Anna Ollivier, Camille Bernardin, Susanne Marie Rodo-
canachi, Xavier Olibo, Countess of Oxford, Merveille de Lyon, F. de
Lesseps, Marie Finger, Beauty of Waltham, Duchesse de Morny, Etienne
Levet, Comtesse de Serenye, Duke of Edinburgh, La France, E. Y. Teas,
Ulrich Brunner, Mrs. J. Laing, Ed. Morren, Baroness Rothschild, Mdme.
C. Joigneaux, Marie Van Houtte, Earl of Dufferin, and Lady Mary
Fitzwilliam,

In Class 2, for twelve Teas, the Roses which won Mr. Tate the first
prize (N.R.S. silver medal) were The Bride, Anna Ollivier, Marie Van
Houtte, Hon. Ed. Gifford, Marechal Niel, Souvenir de S. A. Prince,
Francisca Kruger, Ernest Metz, Bouquet d’Or, Princess of Wales,
Catherine Metmet, and Sunset. Mr. Cuthell took the bronze N.R.S.
medal (second prize) with The Bride, Anna Ollivier, Marie Van Houtte,
Hon. Ed. Gifford, Jules Finger, Mardchal Niel, Souvenir d’un Ami,
Caroline Kuster, Perle de Jardin, Comtesse de Nadaillac, Madame
Berard, and Madame Lambard.

For six triplets (class 3), Mr. Tate won first prize with Ulrich
Brunner, Xavier Olibo, Mrs. J. Laing, M. Van Houtte, Etienne Levet,
and Duchess of Bedford ; while Mr. Cuthell took second rank with
Ulrich Brunner, Comtesse d’Oxford, Jules Finger, Madame Victor
Verdier, Baroness Rothschild, and Mad. G. Luizet. Now, good as
these rosarians undoubtedly are, it is better, if possible, to see some
variation in the record. A. 1, maiden ; 2, cutback. B. 1, maiden ;
2, cutback. C. 1, maiden ; 2, cutback. Perhaps the Committee will be
able to see their way to make some alteration in future.

For the twelves, class 4, Mrs. Perkins took first prize (N.R.S. gold
medal), with a very nice box, consisting of Baroness Rothschild, Comtesse
de Nadaillac, Sunset, Abel Carriere, Marechal Niel, Madame Rady, The
Bride, Mrs, J, Laing, Souvenir de Th^rese Levet, Bouquet d’Or, Captain
Christy, and Hon. Ed. Gifford. The Hon. D. Ryder took second prize
with Duke of Teck, Paul Neyron, Madame Berard, Prince Camille de
Rohan, Francois Duval, Reine du Midi, Madame M. Rady, Ferdinand
de Lesseps, Abel Carriere, La France, Marie Baumann, and Reine Marie
Henriette. There was no competition for the third prize, nor for class 5
(nine Teas), nor for class 6 (four triplets). In class 7 (six of any kind),
Mrs. Hatch took first prize, the best of her blooms being Her Majesty.
Mrs. Poland also had a fine bloom of the same Rose in the box which
won for her the second prize.

For four Teas, class 8, Mrs. Hatch took first prize, and Miss D. A.
Nesfield second prize. In the members’ open class (9) for six of the
same kind of Rose, Mrs. Perkins won the first prize with good blooms of
Mar6chal Niel, and Mr. Cuthell second prize with Gloire de Dijon,
There were no competitors for the third prize. For six H.P.’s (same
kind), Mrs. Poland with John Stuart Mill was first, and Mr. Cuthell
with Camille Bernardin second.

The boxes of garden Roses (11) were perhaps the chief feature of the
Show, for there were six competitors. The first prize w’as taken by Mr.
Tate for a very beautifully arranged box, containing Lucida, Aim^e Vibert,
Fellenberg, Gloiie de Polyantha, Safrano, Gloire de Rosomaine,
Moschata Nivea, Cramoisie, Anna Maria Montravel, Clothilde Soupert,
Hom6re, Crested Moss, Mrs. Bosanquet, Common China, Red Damask,
Gloire de Dijon, Queen of Bedders, Boule d’Or, Souvenir de Malmaison.
Mr. Cuthell’s box, which took second prize, contained Bardon Job,
Paul’s Single White, Verdifolia, Pissardi, White Pet, Paquerette, Celine
Forestier, Dr. Grill, and L’Ideal. For a smaller collection of garden
Miss D. A. Nesfield took the first, Mrs. Perkins the second, and Sir
Benjamin Brodie an extra third prize.

The dinner table decorations was represented by one entry only,
which was Miss D. A. Nesfield. It was for unmarried ladies only. It
was very well done, and consisted of a combination of centre and side
green vases in wrought iron stands filled with Roses, Ferns, and flowers.
The drawing-room decorations were more numerous, but not up to the
usual mark. Miss D. A. Nesfield took first prize for a combination of
yellow Escbscholtzia, Copper Beech, Grasses, and Ferns in a green glass
■vase in iron stand. Mrs. Benecke took the second prize for a basket,
somewhat unevenly but tastefully arranged with Eucharis, Honey¬
suckle, Maize, Passiflora, Hollyhock, Gypsophila, and Ferns.

The buttonhole bouquets represented the old fashion (small size) and
and the new (large size). The Judges were strong minded enough to give
the first prize to Miss Blake for three very pretty small bouquets, and
the second prize to Miss D. A. Nesfield for three extremely pretty but
oversized new fashioned bouquets.

The best Rose in the Show was a very fine bloom of Ernest Metz,
shown by Mr. Tate. — A. B. Alexander.

HEREFORD. — July 5th.

The twenty-seventh anniversary of the West of England Rose Society,
the oldest Rose Show in the kingdom, was held in the beautiful grounds
of the Castle Green, as far as weather was concerned, under most
favourable circumstances. A slight shower in the early morning gave
an air of freshness, grateful both to the exhibits and exhibitors, many
of whom we know have been disappointed and distressed this trying
season. Last year, as many rosarians will sadly call to mind, the
Hereford Rose Show was held — as at the National Rose Shows, Provincial
Show at Chester two days later — in a continuous deluge of rain, which
so interfered with the receipts that no praise too high can be given to
the Hon. Secretary, Rev. F. R. Burnside, for his marvellous energy in
not allowing the Exhibition to fall through, and in supplying a small,
but as it fortunately turned out, a sufficiently attractive prize list,
to gather together in Hereford the leading exhibitors of the-
season. May I stop, Mr. Editor, and ask here the oft put
question, why Rose shows are not so popular as they might be,
and theoretically ought to be, considering the unique position and
popularity of our national flower? Many reasons there are and have
been ventilated, perhaps all included in the great “ indispensable” every¬
where — “ beer and skittles,” which freely paraphrased practically means
“ none of your light refreshments : parachutes, tight and slack rope
acrobatisms, &c., is what our tickets are taken for and undoubtedly
this is the case. Have we not success at Shrewsbury, wet or fine? What
further proof is wanted ? Still, this is an opportunity your reporter does
not like to miss in assigning another reason why the attendance at Rose
shows is so poor, and Rose shows, as a consequence, so short-lived. He
ventures to ask. Could not that stupendous lever of thought, word, and
deed — the Public Press — do more ?

Let any of your readers, fcr instance, take up his London daily of
July 3rd. I had almost ventured to predict that the larger the circu¬
lation of that paper, the smaller, the more foggy and inaccurate the
paragraph ; and then, running his eye over the report of the National
Rose Society’s Exhibition at the Crystal Palace, ask himself what plea¬
sure or profit he had derived. It might be considered exacting perhaps
to expect a strict technical report from any other than a gardening
newspaper, but surely a more careful and detailed account might have
been expected ; while such gross inaccuracies as one of our leading
champion Rose nurserymen, Mr. B. R. Cant, would, one would have
thought of easy monosyllabic nomenclature, being advertised (for
literally to tradesmen this is so), and this not once but twice, as “ Caul.”
To use a slang phrase (it altogether seems so droll), really “ takes the
cake.” I could mention in same report several similar inaccuracies,
but “ Ex uno disce omnes." Liberavi viewn animaim. This surely is not
the way to educate the public, or to encourage a most popular (aye, in
spite of seeming failure) but expensive industry.

Asking pardon for this long digression, your reporter must at once
return to the magnificent tent, capable of holding the thousands of Rose
boxes, which alas ! were conspicuous only by their absence. To remedy
this deficiency, the wily Hon. Sec. (Rev. F. R. Burnside) introduced a
new departure (one quite fashionable among prandial bipeds), in
breaking up the usual continuity of the tables into detached groups,
thereby filling the entire space, without interfering with or giving extra
trouble to the Judges.

As might have been expected, owing to the early and dry season, the
northern exhibitors (all honour to them for so well filling the gap)
carried off all the chief prizes in the three leading nurserymen’s classes,
the third prize not being competed for. In Messrs. Harkness & Co.’s
seventy-two varieties, which took first prize, there was a conspicuous
absence of Teas and Noisettes. Their blooms were wonderfully smooth,
well coloured, and of fair size for the season, and had carried extremely
well. They included the following varieties of H.P.’s — Gustave Piganeau
(grand bloom but weakly habit), Madame E. Verdier, G6n6ral Jacque¬
minot (fine colour and shape), Slarie Baumann, Emily Soupert, Duke of
Fife, Duchesse de Morny, Countess of Oxford, Senateur Vaisse (splendid),
La France, Dr. Andry, Mrs. Harkness (poor), Duke of Teck (radiant,
as one might suppose), Marie Rady (superb), A. K. Williams, Suzanne
Marie Rodocanachi (useful), Horace Vernet, Silver Queen, Comtesse de
Ludre (after Mrs. C. Wood, very fine). Noisettes : Caroline Kuster,
Charles Lefebvre, Countess of Rosebery, Reynolds Hole, Emily
Hausburg, Jean Soupert, Madame Hausman, Mrs. John Laing (grand),
Alfred Dumesnil, Alfred Colomb, Rosieriste Jacobs (fine), Comte de
Blaccas (a globular too much alike Emilie Hausbirrg), Duke of Con¬
naught, Fisher Holmes, Pride of Waltham, Harrison Weir (grand), Charles
Darwin, Lady Helen Stewart, Constantine Petriakoff (superb), Auguste
Rigotard, Earl of Dufferin (grand). Black Prince, Margaret Boudet,
Duchess of Bedford (exquisite). Queen of Queens, John Saul, May Quennel
(fine), Elie Morrel, Dr, Sewell, Merveille de Lyon, W. F. Bennett, Le Havre
(good), Ulrich Brunner, Frangois Michelon, Xavier Olibo, Capt. Christy,
Dupuy Jamain, Viscountess Folkestone (grand), Madame E. Verdier,
Heinrich Schultheis, Mons. E. Y. Teas, Due de Montpensier, Duchess of
Albany, Gloire de Margottin (fine), Mr. George Dickson, Sir Rowland
Hill, Magna Charta (good), Avocat Duvivier, and Marie Verdier, The
second prize was taken by the English Fruit and Rose Company, Limited,
(Cranstons), who had fine blooms of Duke of Wellington, Tea
Souvenir d’Elise, and Her Majesty. The thirty-six trebles fell to
Messrs. Mack & Sons, Yorkshire, whose varieties included H.P. Charles
Lefebvre, Merveille de Lyon, Rosieriste Jacobs, Mrs, John Laing (fine),
Ulrich Brunner (magnificent), S. M. Rodocanachi (superb). Pride of
Waltham, A. K. Williams, Baroness Rothschild, Dupuy Jamain, Princess
Beatrice, Star of Waltham, Marquise Castellane, Duke of Teck,’Marguerite

July 13, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

89

de St. Amand, Louis Corbie (Mr. Mack speaks very highly of this old
Rose), Victo Hugo (good), Magna Charta, Alfred Colomb, Comtesse de
Morny, Comte de Raimbaud (grand), La France, Duke of Wellington
(good), Countess of Rosebery, Marie Baumann. Heinrich Schultheis,
Sultan of Zanzibar (splendid colour). Madame Gabriel Luizet, Etienne
Levet, Charles Darwin (good), E. Y. Teas (fine), and Sir Rowland Hill.
The second prize was taken by the English Fruit and Rose Company,
Limited (Cranstons), who had remarkably fine blooms of G^n^ral
Jacqueminot, Abel Carriere, and Lady Sheffield.

The twenty-four trebles first prize also fell to Messrs. Harkness
with grand blooms ©f H.P.’s Etienne Levet, Mrs. John Laing,
Duchesse de Morny, Prince Arthur, Mdme. Isaac Pereire (superb),
Alfred Colomb (grand), Sir R. Hill, Elie Morel, Mons. E. Y. Teas
(splendid), M. Boudet, Dupuy Jamain, Merveille de Lyon (grand),
Duke of Wellington, Violette Bowyer, Mdme. Haussmann, La France,
Marie Bauman, and Heinrich Schultheis. The second prize fell to the
Fruit and Rose Company, Limited ( Cranston). The third to Mr. C.
Whiting, White Cross, Hereford.

For twelve varieties trebles, Messrs. Mack & Sons, Yorkshire, were
first, showing finely the following varieties : — H.P. Horace Vernet
(splendid). La France, A. K, Williams, Mrs. John Laing, Victor Hugo
(superb), Merveille de Lyon, Alfred Colomb, Mdme. S. Rodocanachi
(very fine), Charles Lefebvre, Auguste Rigotard, Baroness Rothschild,
Prince Arthur (grand). Second prize, Mr. H. Merryweather ; third prize,
Mr. Charles Whiting.

In the amateur division first prize fell to Mr. Drew, Ledbury, thirty-
six varieties, who also won one the N.R. Society’s silver medal, among
which may be specially noticed H.P. Dupuy Jamain (grand), S. M. Rodo¬
canachi, Charles Lefebvre, Merveille de Lyon, Ulrich Brunner, A. K.
Williams (fine), Gustave Piganeau (superb), Beauty of Waltham, Mrs.
J. Laing, Marie Baumann, Etienne Levet, Comte Raimbaud, Captain
Christy, Countess of Oxford (splendid), Violette Bouyer, E. Y. Teas,
Le Havre, Frangois Michelon, Prince Arthur (good). Queen of Queens,
Victor Hugo,! Marie Verdier, Pierre Netting, and Heinrich Schultheis,
No other competitor. In the amateur class restricted to Herefordshire
the first prize (eighteen varieties), which included the N.R. S.’s gold
medal, was taken by Mr. John Ough, with blooms very fresh and well
set up, as follows : — H.P, Louis Van Houtte, Gustave Piganeau (grand).
Her Majesty (not her year), Duke of Welllington, Merveille de Lyon,
S. Rodocanachi, Comtesse de Serenye, Earl of Dufferin, A. K, Williams
(fine). Countess of Oxford, Exposition de Brie (grand), Baroness
Rothschild, Marie Baumann, Marchioness of Dufferin, Tea The Bride,
H.P. Marie Rady (grand), Mrs. John Laing, and Alfred Colomb.

Tea* and Noisettes were shown remarkably well considering the
season. Messrs, Harkness & Sons continued their list of first prizes with
an excellent stand of eighteen varieties open, which included Th^r^se
Levet (bright and not too dark), Marie Van Houtte, Souvenir d’un Ami,
Catherine Mermet, Comtesse de Nadaillac (fine in size and colour),
Madame Bravy, Etoile de Lyon, Innocente Pirola, Madame Hypolyte
Jamain, Francisca Kruger (fine). Miss Caroline Kuster, Jean Ducher,
Souvenir de S. A. Prince, Souvenir d’Elise (superb), Madame de Watte-
ville, The Bride, Princess of Wales, and Madame Cusin. Second prize,
Messrs. Mack ; third prize, Mr. H. Merryweather.

In the amateur class for Teas and Noisettes, first prize (given by Mr.
Frank Cant), Mr. Conway Jones.

The prizes for twelve blooms of any light Rose was carried off by
Messrs. Harkness with grand blooms of Merveille de Lyon ; second,
English Fruit and Rose^Company (Cranston) ; third, Messrs. Mack and
Son. For twelve blooms of any sort of dark Rose, first prize, Messrs.
Mack, with H.P. Marie Baumann ; second, Messrs. Harkness ; third,
English Fruit and Rose Company (Cranston).

The class for herbaceous flowers was keenly contested, the number of
varieties staged, and good taste shown in staging, being very noticeable.
First prize, Mr. Davenport, Foxley ; second prize, Mr. Watkins, Welcroft ;
third prize, Sir George Cornwall, Bart., Moccas Court. The table
decorations were much admired and thus awarded. First, Miss
Watkins ; second, Mrs. Blashill ; third. Miss Stanhope. Thanks are due
to numerous friends, and especially to Mr. Charles Whiting, Whitecross
Nurseries, for collections of stove and greenhouse plants to decorate the
tents. One great feature in the Exhibition, and last, but not least, was
the large and charming collections of Sweet Peas and Violas exhibited
and arranged as to colour and general effect by Mr. Jones, manager to
Messrs. Dobbie & Son, Rothesay. It is worthy of mention that one of
the Violas (Violetta) was exquisitely sweet-scented. The Judges were
the Rev. C. H. Bulmer, Mr. John Cranston, Mr. Harkness, and Mr. W.
Drew. — The Herefordshire Ikcumbent.

IPSWICH. — July 5th and Gth.

The extremely few members of Ipswich Horticultural Society who
are interested in Roses were naturally sorry that it was decided to hold
a two-days Show, and that they could not therefore enjoy the counte¬
nance of the N.R.S. ; but they were in a most hopeless minority, and
were grateful for being allowed to show Roses at all, and that the first
day at least did not clash with any other East Anglian show. The Show
was held, as usual, in Christ Church Park, but the spot chosen seemed
unnecessarily near to the uninhabited house, which gave a somewhat
melancholy air to the surroundings. Competition was not strong in the
Rose classes, and the standard of merit was low.

In the class for thirty-six (open) Mr. F. Cant was first, having a
very good stand, of which Mrs. John Laing was again his most
noticeable bloom. Messrs. D. Prior & Sons were second, having a very

fine Horace Vernet and a neat bloom of Ella Gordon. Mr. Woods of
Woodbridge was third. In the class for twelve trebles (open) the
judging showed a very good example of deciding equal point merits by
arrangement and general appearance. Messrs. Prior & Sons and F. Cant
were absolutely equal in points, but the former’s stand was so decidedly
superior in arrangement, evenness, and general beauty as to be held
quite worthy of the additional point necessary to a win. A fine triplet
of Marechal Niel in the stand of Messrs. Prior contributed to this result.
In twelve Teas (open) Messrs. Prior were first and F. Cant second, the
exhibits being only fair.

In thirty-six Roses (amateurs). Rev. A. Foster-Melliar’s was the
only exhibit ; the blooms were but moderate. In twenty-four Rev.
H. A. Berners was first, and Mr. Orpen, of Colchester, second with a
poor stand. In twelve, Mr. Parsons of Woodbridge won with a very
promising stand, having Marie Van Houtte and Marechal Niel in
good condition. Mr. Berners was second, and Mr. Orpen third. In
twelve Teas Mr. Berners was first, Mr. Orpen second, and Mr. Foster-
Melliar third. In the first and third stands most of the blooms had
already done duty at Diss. In six Roses of any sort Mr. Orpen was first
with fine Mardchal Niels, Mr. Parsons second with Mrs. J. Laing, and
Mr. Berners third with Madame Gabriel Luizet.

The local classes were only fair. In three classes for bouquets and
buttonholes Mrs. Orpen was, as usual, invincible, and indeed seems to
have frightened away other competitors. In the decoration of wild
flowers with Grasses Miss 0. E. Jennings won easily, having the only
light arrangement. Table decorations call for no comment.

In groups, Mr. J. H. Southgate, gardener to Mr. Whitfield King, was
a very good first, as it was not easy to find fault with his exhibit.
Mr. Jacobi, of Ipswich, showed herbaceous plants well. The weather
was glorious, and it is to be hoped that the funds profited accordingly.

NORWICH.— July 6th.

The extremely flourishing Norfolk and Norwich Horticultural
Society had the good fortune not only of a cloudless day, but also of
having chosen last year the Royal wedding day as the date of their
Show. There was one confiding amateur who journeyed to Norwich
with thirty-six blooms, cut the same day as another thirty-six for
Ipswich, in the full expectation that he would be unopposed at
Norwich for the principal amateur prize of the eastern counties.
The place chosen was “ Mouseholes,” the seat of J. Poyser, Esq., and
the tents were pitched in a pretty hollow, but oh 1 such a hot
spot. There was some shade at a distance from the Rose tent, and
thither wended the confident one to find in possession a genuine Norfolk
amateur, who seldom exhibits largely, with boxes upon boxes literally
overflowing with fine Roses. When it is stated that this gentleman
actually setup and exhibited of his superabundance on July Gth, 1893,
an extra stand of thirty-six really fine samples of Baroness Rothschild,
it may be imagined that the amateur first mentioned not only speedily
lost all traces of his former self-confidence but began to wonder uneasily if
he had ever been heard to say that there were no strong Rose amateurs
in Norfolk proper.

In the class for forty-eight, open, Mr. B, R. Cant was first with fine
large blooms, though somewhat rough and dirty. His best blooms were
Her Majesty, and a small but charming example of Ethel Brownlow ;
Marchioness of Dufferin was dirty and Md, as it has generally been this
year. Messrs. Burch of Peterborough were second with smaller, but
cleaner and neater blooms. They had Horace Vernet very fine, but
this specimen again was absolutely unshaded with a darker tint as usual.
Messrs. Prior of Colchester were third with an inferior stand. In
eighteen trebles, open, Mr. B. Cant was again first, and Messrs. Prior
second. The latter’s stand was rather crowded, but this must have been
rather a near thing. Messrs. Prior third with a high coloured triplet of
Jean Ducher.

In thirty-six blooms (amateurs) Rev. A. L. Fellowes, of Beighton
Rectory, was first, his blooms being large and heavy though rather over¬
blown and not exhibited to the best advantage. His best bloom was
Emilie Hausberg, which has been good this year ; this gained the medal
as the best amateur H.P. Baroness Rothschild was also good, and he
had also originally two wonderful Teas, Anna Ollivier and Marie Van
Houtte, but these promptly succumbed under canvas. Rev. A. Foster-
Mellier of Sproughton was a close second (three points), Thomas Mills (!)
being perhaps his best. Miss Penrice of Witton was third. In twelve
trebles (amateurs) Rev. A. Foster-Melliar was placed first, alternate
triplets of H.P.’s and Teas having a good effect. Gustave Piganeau
and Comtesse de Nadaillac were his best. Rev. A. L. Fellowes was
second, showing nothing but H.P.’s placed in rows. In the class for
twenty-four. Rev. A. L. Fellowes w'as again first, Mr. T. C. Blofeld
second, and Rev. F. Page Roberts third.

In local classes, which were well filled and contested, the medal Tea
was found in a badly shown Marechal Niel in the six of Mrs. Amys
Lyde. In the class for twelve Teas Rev. F. Page Roberts was first with
very small blooms, but shown with his usual skill ; Rev. A. Foster-
Melliar second ; and Rev. A. L. Fellowes third.

For twelve Roses of a sort. Rev. A. L. Fellowes left his rivals out of
sight with La France and Comtesse de Nadaillac respectively. In six
of a sort the samples were bad, and somebody was ashamed of his two
winning stands. Colonel Rous exhibited as an extra twenty-four
Marechal Niels of fair quality, and the extraordinary stand of thirty-
six Baroness Rothschilds, shown by Rev. A. L. Fellowes, was not
honoured as it should have been with an extra prize. This honour was,
however, awarded to a large exhibit of garden Roses and Polyanthus by
the same gentleman.

40

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 13, 1893.

Mr. John Green of Dereham had a pretty general stand, Reynolds
Hole Carnation and a variegated Saxifrage being among the most note¬
worthy of his exhibits. Messrs. Daniels Bros, had also a large stand,
Gloxinias and Begonias being conspicuous. Gloxinias were finely shown
by H. Trevor, Esq., and the fruit was good. To genuine florists, however,
perhaps the most notable exhibit was the seedling Picotees and Pinks
shown by Rev. C.Fellowes of Shottesham. Twelve of each were shown,
many of them unnamed, and a large proportion, of the Picotees especially,
was considered by experts to be of very high merit.— W, R. Railleh.

BATH. — JuL? Gth.

As a rule the Rose shows at Bath are both extensive and high-class,
most of the leading rosarians in the country competing. This year there
was, owing to the drought, a great falling off in the number of exhibits,
but all things considered the reputation of the Society has not suffered.
It is also most gratifying to note that for once their proverbial misfortune
as regards the weather was changed, a “ Royal” day being experienced,
and the finances of the Society will be improved accordingly.

There were two competitors in the nurserymen’s class for seventy-two
single trusses of Roses, distinct, Messrs. Harkness & Son, Bedale, being
first with a collection that would have been hard to beat, even in a more
favourable season. Of these the best were Comtesse de Ludre, Duchesse
de Morny, Susanne Marie Rodocanachi, Beauty of Waltham, Marie
Baumann, Ulrich Brunner, Gustave Rousseau, Rosieriste Jacobs, Marie
Rady, Madame Victor Verdier, A. K. Williams, Mrs. J, Laing, Countess
of Oxford, Madame C. Wood, Fisher Holmes, General Jacqueminot,
Lady Mary Fitzwilliam, Edward Andry, Margaret Dickson, Prince
Arthur, Margaret Bondet, Earl of Dufferin, Charles Lefebvre, Elise
Morel, Xavier Olibo, Comte de Raimbaud, Exposition de Brie, Le Havre,
Countess of Rosebery, Lord Macaulay, Alfred Colomb, Sir Rowland
Hill, Crown Prince, Etienne Levet, Captain Christy, Reynolds Hole,
Madame H. Jamain, Camille Bernardin, Magna Charta, Grand Mogul,
La France, Merrie England, May Quennell, Mons. Noman, Madame
V. Verdier, Madame Gabriel Luizet, Marquise de Castellane, Duke of
Connaught, and Madame J. Perriere. Messrs. Cooling & Son, Bath,
were a very creditable second, having good fresh blooms of Alfred
Colomb, A. K. Williams, Merveille de Lyon, a seedling of the same
character as the latter, but much fuller, Pierre Netting, George Baker,
Harrison Weir, Duchess of Bedford, E. Y. Teas, Gustave Piganeau,
Lord Bacon, Horace Vernet, and Dupuy Jamain.

Messrs. Harkness & Sons were also well first with thirty-six triplets,
and which comprised fine fresh blooms of Etienne Levet, A. Colomb,
A. K. Williams, Prince Arthur, Madame E. Verdier, Mrs. J. Laing,
Madame Haussman, Comtesse de Ludre, Duke of Wellington, Countess
of Rosebery, Dupuy Jamain, Gustave Piganeau, Reynolds Hole, Marie
Baumann, and Exposition de Brie. Messrs. Cooling & Son were second,
they also showing well. With eighteen triplets Mr. G. Mount, Canter¬
bury, was first, such varieties as Mrs. J. Laing, Ulrich Brunner, Prince
Arthur, General Jacqueminot, Fisher Holmes, Abel Carriere, and Dupuy
Jamain being the best in his stands. The second prize went to Mr. J.
Mattock, Oxford, who had good blooms of Lady Sheffield, Madame J.
Laing, C. Lefebvre, Mons. E. Y. Teas, and Pierre Netting. The first
prize for thirty-six single trusses, distinct, was well won by Mr. Mount,
this being one of the best exhibits in the Show. Very fresh and good
were Gtin^ral Jacqueminot, Mrs. J. Laing, Dupuy Jamain, A. K.
Williams, Earl of Dufferin, Duke of Wellington, Marie Rady, C. Darwin,
Countess of Rosebery, Fisher Holmes, Eugene Fiirst, Madame Victor
Verdier, John Bright, Alfred Colomb, Marie Baumann, and Louis Van
Houtte. Mr. J. Mattock was again second, his best being Earl of Dufferin,
Mrs. J. Laing, Marie Baumann, Marie Rady, and Xavier Olibo.

There was good competition in the class for eighteen Teas or
Noisettes, Messrs. Harkness & Son winning first prize with a very
superior stand, which comprised Cleopatra, to which was awarded a
silver medal of N.R.S., Madame H. Jamain, Souvenir d’un Ami, Madame
Hoste, Comte de Nadaillac, Souvenir de S. A. Prince, Ernest Metz, The
Bride, Madame de Watteville, Souvenir d’Elise, Francisca Kruger,
Caroline Kuster, Th4r^se Levet, Hon. E. Gifford, Catherine Mermet,
Innocente Pirola, and Madame Bravy. Mr. G. Mount was a creditable
second, his best being Niphetos, The Bride, Souvenir d’un Ami, Souvenir
d’Elise Vardon, and Marechal Niel, the latter being thought by many
fully deserving of the medal which went to the bloom of Cleopatra
already noticed. Mr. J. Mattock was third.

Amateurs’ classes were badly filled, Mr. S. P. Budd having matters
very much to himself. This gentleman’s exhibit of thirty-six varieties,
single trusses, fully deserved the award of a first prize, being very
considerably better than he expected to cut two days prior to the
Show. The best were Charles Lefebvre, Sultan of Zanzibar, Francois
Michelon, E. Y. Teas, Marie Van Houtte, Sir Garnet Wolseley, S. M.
Rodocanachi, Horace Vernet, Ernest Metz, A. K. Williams, Madame
Victor Verdier, Le Havre, Reynolds Hole, Marie Baumann and Long¬
fellow; With eighteen varieties, triplets, Mr. S. P. Budd was again
first. For twenty-four single blooms, distinct, Mr. H. Hobbs, Bristol,
was well first, his stand comprising good Auguste Rigotard, Horace
Vernet, Mons. Bonsteten, Mrs. J. Laing, A. Colomb, Dr. Andre, Prince
Arthur, Camille Bernardin, Captain Christy, and B. Y. Teas. Mr. J.
Parker, Headington, was second, his most noteworthy blooms being
Senateur Vaisse, Marie Baumann, Eclaire, and Horace Vernet. With
twelve blooms Mr. J. Parker was first, Mr. T. Hobbs second, and Mr. R.
Hull, Sutton Benger, third. The first prize for twelve triplets went to
Mr. T. Hobbs. The best eighteen Teas was shown by Mr. S. P. Budd,
among these being very creditable blooms. Mr. A. H. Gray, Bath, was
second. With twelve varieties Mr. J. Parker was first. Mr. T. Hobbs

second. Mr. S. P. Budd was easily first with six triplets, Mr. J. Parker
being second and Mr. A. H. Gray third.

Some of the open classes were very well filled, this being especially
the case in that for twelve trusses of any Rose. Messrs. Harkness and
Son had a grand stand of Mrs, J. Laing, a bloom among these being
selected for the award of National Rose Society’s silver medal for the
best Hybrid Perpetual in the Show. Mr. J. Mattock was a good second
with the same variety. Mr. J. Mount was first with any yellow Rose,
having a good stand of Mardchal Niel, Mr. A. H. Gray was second. A
fine stand of Gustave Piganeau gained Messrs. Harkness the premier
award for the best crimson Rose, Mr, G. Mount being second with
Fisher Holmes. Prizes were also offered for twelve distinct garden
decorative Roses in bunches, and with these Messrs. G. Cooling & Son
were well first, staging fine bunches of Aimie Vibert, Madame Bruant,
Princess de Nassau, Madame Lambard, Fellemberg, York Rose,
Cheshunt Scarlet, Single Perpetual White, Triomphe de Noisette,
Madame Bravy, Pappilon, and Souvenir de la Malmaison. Local classes
were not well filled, the most noteworthy exhibit in these being the
stand of thirty-six varieties, single trusses, that gained Mr. A. H. Gray 'a
gold medal.

The competition in the class for nine bouquets of Roses was close,
Mr. J. Mattock being first, Messrs. G. Cooling & Son second, and Mr.
J. Bradbury third, all showing well. Very good also were the exhibits
of hardy herbaceous flowers in bunches. Mr. F, Hooper, Widcombe,
was a good first, and Mr. A. A. Walters, Bath, second. With twenty-
four bunches hardy annuals Mr. A. F. Newman, Bath, was well first,
the second prize going to Mr. F. Hooper. Mr. R. B. Cater had a first
prize for a pretty basket of Orchids, Mr. A. F. Newman being a credit¬
able second in the same class.

Good prizes were offered for a group of miscellaneous plants arranged
for effect on a space not exceeding 200 square feet. Mr. J. Cypher,
Cheltenham, was well first for a very light and tasteful arrangement,
Messrs. Cooling & Son being second, and Mr. T. J. Tate, gardener to
W. Pumphrey, Esq., Bath, third. Mr. Cypher was also first for fine-
foliaged plants. A fairly large tent was principally devoted to Tuberous
Begonias, a fine display of these being made. The silver cup, value
£5 5s., offered by the Rev. E. Lascelles, a famous local raiser of
Begonias, for twelve plants was well won by Mr. J. B. Blackmore,
Tiverton, who had grand plants ; Mr. Blackmore also took the lead in
several other classes, showing remarkably well in each instance. Other
successful exhibitors were Mr. W. Bees, gardener to D. S. Carr, Esq.,
Tiverton ; and Mr. E. Dagger, gardener to Mrs. Simms. Messrs. Black-
more and T. Wilkins, Blandford, were the most successful with cut
blooms, the last named taking one of the special prizes offered by Mr.
B. R. Davis, Begonia grower, Yeovil.

Non-competitors’ exhibits comprised a grand display of Tuberous
Begonias in a cut state by Mr. B. R. Davis, the varieties, both single and
double, being very superior. Messrs. Canned & Sons, Swanley, also
showed Tuberous Begonias in fine style, their doubles being particularly
good. Very attractive were the Sweet Peas and bedding Violas in
bunches with a background of black velvet. Pansies and Marigolds
brought from Scotland by Messrs. Dobbie & Co., Rothesay. Carnations
were extensively and well shown by Mr. F. Hooper. Certificates of
merit were awarded to all these exhibits.

FARNINGHAM.— July 6th.

The fifteenth annual Show of the Farningham Rose and Horticul¬
tural Society was held on the above date. The Rose classes were not
very well filled, doubtless owing to what was, considering the season, a
late date, but possibly owing a little to the Royal wedding. However,
the Exhibition as a whole was a good and attractive one. General
Edwards is the Hon. Secretary and was able to show a good balance in his
last financial statement, so that the Society may be considered to be on a
firm footing.

Two competed in class 1, which was for thirty-six varieties, and
Mr. Mount was plaeed first for an excellent stand, in which Comtesse de
Nadaillac, Duke of Wellington, and Eug&ne Fiirst, were the best of an
even and well coloured collection. Colonel Pitt, Turkey Court, Maid¬
stone, was second with a fair box, in which Marie Rady was far the best
bloom. Le Havre was also very good. The remainder were a little
uneven in merit, but the stand was a good one considering the season ;
The Colonel has shown consistently well this season. The same result
was apparent in the class for eighteen Teas and Noisettes. Mr. Mount
had a charming box, although Souvenir de S. A. Prince was terribly
blown and weakened it considerably. The best flowers were Souvenir
d’un Ami, Niphetos, Comtesse de Nadaillac, and Madame Cusin, but all
were good with the exception of the one first named. Colonel Pitt’s
flowers were much smaller, but clean and fairly fresh.

In the amateurs’ class for twenty-four Colonel Pitt won somewhat
easily, although several of his flowers were very weak. A splendid
Marie Rady, which was awarded a silver-gilt medal as the best H.P. in
the Show, a fine Horace Vernet, and good examples of Ulrich Brunner
and Madame Victor Verdier retrieved the position, and secured the
award. Dr. Tucker, The Limes, Swanley Junction, was second with
much smaller but fresh flowers ; and R. L. Knight, Esq., Sittingbourne,
was third. Dr. Tucker was victorious with twelve Teas. His flowers
were very small, but otherwise they were good, Comtesse de Nadaillac,
Niphetos, and Marie Van Houtte being charming blooms. Colonel Pitt
had larger flowers, but one or two were well past their best, and lost points.
The latter appeared to be the only exhibitor of six trebles, and received
the second prize, his stand being somewhat weak. Mr. Gibson, gardener
to T. F. Burnaby Atkins, Esq., was the only exhibitor of six of one

July 13, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

41

variety (light), and received a third prize for a moderate bos of
Niphetos.

In the third division the first prize for twelve blooms went to C, J.
Grahame, Esq., Croydon, who had a fairly good stand, Fisher Holmes
and Dr. Andry being the best flowers. Mr. Gibson was second, receiving
a special bronze medal for A. K. Williams, and Mr. R. Edwards, The
Gardens, Beechy Lees, Otford, was third. Mr. Grahame had a very neat
stand of nine Teas, the flowers being clean and fresh, if small. The
silver medal was awarded to his bloom of Comtesse de Nadaillac. Dr.
Tucker was second. Mr. Barber, gardener to J. H. Dalton, Esq., The
Oaks, Chislehurst, won with six ; Mr. Couchman, gardener to
A. Lanceley, Esq., Farningham, being second.

Pansies and cut flowers generally formed a bright display. Dr.
Ashurst was first with twelve of the former, Mr. Gibson being second,
and T. Denne, Esq., Wilmington, third. Mr. Gibson had the best box
of cut flowers, and an excellent one it was, doing him great credit. Mr.
Edwards was second ; Mr. Dunster, gardener to the Rev. J. Williamson,
third, and Mr. Barber fourth. Some very tastefully arranged vases,
baskets, &c., were exhibited by Miss Solomon, Miss K. Smith, Miss Wood,
Miss Hodsoll, Miss Rita Jameson, Miss Edwards, Miss F. Smith, Miss
N. E. Solomon, Miss Emily Solomon, Miss Dalton, Miss K. Hodson, Miss
Ashurst, Miss Sybil Edwards, Miss E. E. Smith, Miss Agnes Solomon,
and Miss Maynard, all of whom received prizes.

Table plants were extremely well shown by Mr. Edwards, Mr. Gib¬
son, and Mr. Potter, gardener to Sir Mark Collett, Bart., St. Clere,
Kemsing, Sevenoaks, who were first, second, and third in the order of
their names. Groups of plants were good, Mr. J. D. Abbott, gardener to
Sir W. Hart Dyke, being first ; Mr. T. Abbott, gardener to W. Moore,
Esq., second ; and Mr. Gibson third. The prizes for Ferns went to
Mr. Barber and Mr. T. Abbott ; and those for stove and greenhouse
plants to Messrs. Gibson, Edwards, and Potter. Colonel Pitt took the
lead with Grapes, his bunches being excellent both in the white and
black classes, Messrs. Potter, Winnill, and Edwards received the minor
prizes. Mr. ]‘’otter won with a Melon. There was an extensive and
good display of vegetables. Mr. Edwards was first with twelve varieties,
Mr. Winnill with nine, and Mr, Baldwin, gardener to J. C. Crossley,
Esq., with six, the latter being for Messrs. Sutton’s prizes. Mr. T.
Abbott and Mr. Nicol were also prizewinners. Mr. T. Abbott had the
best Cucumbers, and Mr. Baldwin the best Tomatoes, The first prize
for a table went to Mr. J. D. Abbott.

Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons had an interesting collection of Cactaceous
plants, together with some beautiful Begonias and Gloxinias. They also
had a large and fine mixed group of plants,

WOLVERHAMPTON. — July 11th.

Considering the season there was a surprisingly good display of
Roses at Wolverhampton on the above date. It is true several of
the blooms were more or less faded, and more appeared to have been
injured by wind and rain, still excellent collections were staged by
northern growlers. In the class for seventy-two 'olooms, distinct, the first
and second prizes of £7 lOs. and 5 guineas, given by the Mayor of the
town, C. T. Mander, Esq., were won by Messrs. Harkness & Sons, Bedale,
and R. Mack & Sons, Catterick Bridge, respectively, Messrs. Merry-
weather & Son, Southwell, being third.

With forty-eight blooms, distinct, Messrs. Mack & Son were first with
a really fine collection, Messrs. Harkness and Merryweather showing
well for the remaining prizes, which they won in the order of their
names. In the thirty-six bloom class Messrs. Harkness & Sons won the
premier position, Messrs. Merryweather being second, and Perkins and
Son third in good competition. In the tw'enty-four bloom class the
Bedale firm were again to the fore, second honours going to Southwell,
and third to Hereford— the English Fruit and Rose Company.

Messrs. Merryweather were the premier exhibitors of new Roses. In
the class for twelve dark Roses Messrs. Mack k Son were first with
Horace Vernet, Harkness & Sons second with Alfred Colomb, and
D. & W. Croll, Dundee, third with Maurice Bernardin. A good class.
The light bloom class brought out probably the finest stand ever seen of
Merveille de Lyon. Mr. Pemberton, one of the Judges, remarked the
stand contained “six silver medal blooms.” It was certainly a splendid
stand, and will not soon be forgotten. Messrs. Perkins & Son were
second, and the Hereford Roses third, both stands Mrs. J. Laing. The
winners in the open class with Teas were Messrs. Croll, Merryweather,
and Townsend, but all the blooms were injured by the weather.

In the gardeners’ and amateurs’ class for thirty-six blooms the prizes
were won by Messrs. Budd (Bath), Pemberton (Havering), and Robins
(Wolverhampton) in the order named, with very good collections. Mr.
Budd was first with twelve Teas, the best stand of these Roses in the
Show.

A large general Exhibition was held at the same time, but cannot
be further referred to this week. Rain fell in torrents at intervals on
the opening day, and must have prejudiced the attendance of visitors
materially.

EARL’S COURT.— July 12th.

Despite the heavy fall of rain on the preceding evening there was
a fair display of Roses, Carnations, and other flowers at the Gardening
and Forestry Exhibition at Earl’s Court on Wednesday, July 12th.
Fruit was also shown in grand condition, the Grapes being specially fine.

Carnations were very good, especially those shown by Mr. M.
Rowan, Clapham, who was awarded the first prize for twenty-four
blooms. The best of these were Rob Roy, George Melville, John Buxton,
and W. Skirviag. Mr. C. Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough, was a close

second with a stand of bright flowers. The third prize went to Mr. J.
Douglas, Great Gearies, Ilford. Mr. G. Chaundy, New Marston, Oxford,
secured the leading award |for twelve Carnations, showing fresh and
brightly coloured flowers. The second prize in this class went to Mr,

F. Hooper, Widcombe, Bath, for a stand of good blooms ; Mr. A. J.
Sanders, gardener to Viscountess Chewton, Bookham Lodge, Cobham,
being third. There were only three competitors in each of the
foregoing classes.

Mr. C. Turner secured the premier honours in the class for twenty-
four Picotees, showing grand flowers. The best were Mrs. S. Beal,
John Archer, Morna, Madeline, Favourite, and Brunette. Mr. Douglas
was second, and Mr. M, Rowan third. In both cases good flowers were
staged. There were only three competitors in the class last mentioned.
Of twelve Picotees there were four exhibitors, and the competition was
somewhat keen. Mr. F. Hooper, however, gained the premier prize for
a stand of fresh flowers. Mr. G. Chaundy was a good second, and Mr.
A. J. Sanders third.

There were nine exhibitors of twelve self and Fancy Carnations, and
consequently the first prize, which went to Mr. J. Walker, Thame, was
well won. The flowers were very good, especially Alfred Grey, Duchess
of Portland, and Rose Unique. Mr, Rowan was a close second, Mr.

G. Chaundy being third. Mr. J. Douglas won with twelve yellow
ground Picotees, staging splendid flowers. Mr. C. Turner was second,
and Mr. Chaundy third. Mr. T. Anstiss, Brill, gained a first-class
certificate for Carnation Mrs. Anstiss, a grand apricot-coloured self.
Mr. C. Turner was again first for twenty-four self and Fancy Carna¬
tions, Mr. J. Douglas being second, and Mr. A. Smith, Downley, High
Wycombe, Bucks, third.

Mr. G. Wythes, gardener to Duke of Northumberland, Syon House,
sent a collection of border Carnations, not for competition (silver medal).
Messrs. G. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, also had some Carnations. A box of
new dwarf Cannas were likewise sent by Messrs. Paul, to whom a silver
medal was awarded for their various exhibits. Mr. J. Walker, Thame,
secured a silver medal for a collection of border Carnations.

Mr. Chas. Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough, gained the first prize
in the class for forty-eight distinct Roses, three trusses of each.
The best were Prince Arthur, Mar^chal Niel, Crimson Rambler,
A. K. Williams, and Louis Van Houtte. The first prize and
silver medal in the class for forty-eight Roses, distinct, single
trusses, was awarded to Messrs. Paul k Son, Old Nurseries,
Cheshunt, who staged A. K. Williams, Alfred Colomb, Ernest Metz,
Madame Gabriel Luizet, La France, and Her Majesty in good form.
In the class for twenty-four Roses, distinct, three trusses of each, Messrs.
Prior & Son took the premier position, with Mr. Geo. Mount a close
second. Mary Bennett, Jean Ducher, Queen of Queens, Lady Sheffield,
Souvenir de la Malmaison, and Catherine Mermet were amongst Messrs.
Prior’s best. Messrs. D. Prior k Son gained the first prize for twenty-
four distinct Roses. Horace Vernet, Ulrich Brunner, Anna Ollivier, and
Chas. Lefebvre were amongst the best. Mr. G. Mount was a very close
second. Messrs. D. Prior k Son, Colchester, were the only competitors in
the class for twenty-four Teas or Noisettes, and the first was
accorded to them. The stand included Madame Willermoz, Edith
Giffard, Perle des Jardins, Madame Lambard, and Jean Ducher in grand
form. Mr. G. Mount, Canterbury, was awarded the first prize for
eighteen Tea or Noisette Roses, distinct, showing, amongst others, Hon.
Edith Gifford, Catherine Mermet, Innocente Pirola in fine form. Messrs.
Paul k Son were awarded the first prize and a silver medal for twenty-
four bunches of garden Roses, staging a beautiful collection. Mr.
A. Gibson, gardener to T. F. Burnaby Atkins, Esq., Halstead Place,
Sevenoaks, was awarded an extra prize for a creditable box of twelve
bunches of garden Roses. Mr. Gibson was again first for twelve distinct
Hybrid Perpetual Roses, Mr. Jas. Parker, Oakfield, Hitchin, being second,
and Miss E. Bailey Denton, Orchard Court, Stevenage, third. Mr. Jas.
Parker was awarded the first prize for twelve Tea or Noisette Roses in
distinct varieties staged a good selection. Messrs. Geo. Jackman, Woking,
staged a large collection of Roses not for competition (silver medal).

Mr. H. B. May, Dyson’s Lane Nurseries, Upper Edmonton, staged a
very fine magnificent group of foliage plants. Dracmnas, Ferns, Crotons,
Palms, Caladiums, and Isolepis gracilis were amongst the most promi¬
nent (gold medal). A collection of hardy plants was excellently
arranged by Messrs. J. Cheat k Son, Crawley. This exhibit included
Gaillardias in exceptionally good form, Violas, Perennial Phloxes, Sweet
Peas, and Gladioli (silver-gilt medalL Messrs. Barr &: Son staged a
beautiful collection of herbaceous cut flowers. The same firm also
arranged a miniature rockery in a most effective manner (silver medal).
Mr. H. G. Sage, gardener to the Earl of Dysart, Ham House, Richmond,
staged a charming collection of herbaceous flowers (silver medal). Mr.
J. Prewitt, Swiss Nursery, Hammersmith, and Mr. Wythes, gardener to
the Duke of Northumberland, Syon House, Brentford, were awarded
equal first prizes in the class for twelve bunches of stove and greenhouse
flowers, Mr. Gibson being placed third. Mr. Chuck was awarded an
extra prize for some Anthuriums. A certificate was awpded for tri¬
color Pelargonium Duchess of York shown by Mr. J. Prewitt.

The class for three bunches of black Grapes brought forth nine com¬
petitors, but the leading prize was awarded to Mr. A. Maxim, gardener
to Hon. Miss Shaw-Lefevre, Heckfield Place, Winchfield, who had some
well coloured Black Hamburghs, Mr. T. Osman, Ottershaw Park,
Chertsey, was a good second with neat bunches of the same variety.
Mr. F. Jordan, gardener to Birkett Foster, Esq., The Hill, Witley,
Surrey, being third. An extra prize was awarded to Mr. W. Shingler,
Melton Constable, East Dereham, for three good bunches of Alnwick

42

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 13, 1893.

Seedlinp. There were live competitors of white Grapes, and Mr. W.
Lane, King’s Ride, Ascot, was first, showing three neat bunches of
Muscat of Alexandria. Mr. W. Tidy, Stanmore Hill, Great Stanmore,
was second with Foster’s Seedling ; and Mr, T. Osman third with
Mrs. Pearson.

Mr. F. Billings, gardener to R. W. Hanbury, Esq., M.P., Ham Hall,
Ashbourne. Derbyshire, was first with a single dish of Nectarines ; Mr.
J. Wallis, Keele Hall, Newcastle, Staffs, second ; and Mr. A. Gibson,
Halstead Place, Sevenoaks, third. Mr. Billings was also first for
Peaches, Mr. F. J. Debnam, Spring Grove Gardens, Isleworth, being
second, and Mr. Wallis third. An extra prize went to Mr. A. H.
Richwood, gardener to Dowager Lady Freake, Fulwell Park, for a dish
of Peaches. Mr. W. Chuck, gardener to P. Thelhusson, Esq., Brodf-
worth Hall, Doncaster, was first with Strawberries. Mr, T. Elisha,
Belling Place, Old Windsor, was first with one Melon, showing a
seedling, and Mr. E, Little, Milton Court, Dorking, was second, the
third prize going to Mr. S. Mortimer, Rowledge, Farnham. Mr.
E. Little was first for three Melons, showing Hero of Lockinge, Mr.
Mortimer being second, and Mr. J. Portbury, Ripon House, Putney
Heath, third. Mr. Mortimer was first for a dish of Cherries.

Mr. W. Jenks, gardener to W. M. Grant, Esq., Fairlawn, Cobham,
staged a magnificent collection of Tomatoes not for competition (silver
medal). Messrs. Thos. Rivers & Son, Sawbridgeworth, staged a grand
collection of fruit, including Peaches, Nectarines, Cherries, and Plums
(silver-gilt medal). Mr. A. Maxim, gardener to Hon. Miss Shaw Lefevre,
Heckfield Place, Winchfield, showed two baskets of Black Hamburgh
Grapes, packed and ready for sending to market (silver medal), as
also did Mr. R. Grindrod., Whitfield Gardens, Hereford. Mr. Grindrod
staged three bunches of Gros Maroc Grape in fine condition (silver
medal). Mr. W. Shingler, Melton Constable, East Dereham, staged a
bunch of new Grape, Lady Hastings, a Black Muscat with good berries,
but a rather straggling bunch. Mr. T. Elisha sent a number of seedling
Melons, dishes of Peaches, and some Peas and Cucumbers, for which a
bronze medal was awarded. A first class certificate was awarded for a
seedling Melon named Earl’s Court, a red fleshed variety.

WOKK.FOil’raE WEEK,, ra

HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

Peaches and M'ectarlnes. — Treatment of Succession Shoots. —
Secure loosely in the proper direction for training healthy successional
shoots. Deal with the strongest first, leaving the weakest comparative
latitude a little longer. As a rule it is not generally desirable to shorten
these at all, especially if sufficient space is available for training ; but
very vigorous shoots that have attained to a length of over 15 inches
may be topped to a lateral near that point if one has pushed, this
forming a new leader, but weaker than the portion removed. Other
laterals that may have been produced reduce to the first pair of leaves.
Growths of medium strength which ha^ e originated from older wood
than the fruiting shoots, and are better placed than the successionals
retained, ought to be preserved, as by laying in a few of such, wherever
space is or can be made available, the trees are kept more evenly
furnished with fruitful wood.

Gooseberries. — Summer pruning ought to be completed without
delay, pinching off the side shoots on the main stems at the fourth leaf
where the spur system of pruning is adopted. After the fruit is gathered
is the best time to thin out old branches for the purpose of affording
more room to young growths which will eventually bear finer fruit.
The young growth also must be thinned if at all thickly placed, and
none of it shortened, but allowed to extend its full length under the
influence of sun and air with the full exposure of every leaf. A com¬
bination of spur pruning and allowing a fair amount of young growths
to remain yearly is a profitable system where young gieen fruit is
plentifully required, as well as some needed of a larger size and fully
ripened. The youngest wood will produce the former and the spurred
shoots the latter. Some bushes may be treated entirely on the system
of retaining young wood annually, provided the fruit-bearing shoots are
cut out directly the crops are cleared, so that the growths retained
may receive the benefit of sun and air in order to rinen fully to their
extremities.

Red and White Currants. — The side shoots on main branches
not yet summer pruned stop to five or six good leaves, in order that
the lowest base buds may be properly fed and matured for furnishing
the following season’s crops. Full grown bushes must have the
growths at the extremities of the main branches stopped the same as
side shoots, but young bushes still extending their principal growths
need these preserving until the winter pruning. In aged trees young
strong shoots extending from the base may be encouraged for taking the
place of worn-out branches or such as are producing a thicket of
crowded spurs. The continued vitality and productiveness of old trees
ci'Q) hy gradually renewing their vigour in this manner, be maintained.

Black Currants. — No summer pruning in the sense of shortening
young wood is necessary with this fruit. The encouragement of strong
suckers from the base, or young vigorous wood from various parts of the

lower branches, is the best means of rendering the bushes fru
ful, dispensing at the same time with worn-out branches as well as
superfluous and ill-placed growths. Support crops of fruit on bushes in
dry positions by watering freely and mulching, but avoid giving liquid
manure where ripe fruit is hanging for late or exhibition purposes. •«nS!5

Raspberries. — Thin out new canes or suckers of Raspberries,
allowing only four or five of the strongest to each stool. If planted in
continuous rows the thinning out of the weakest canes should early be
resorted to, so that when the new canes are tied in position there will be
no crowding. If they extend higher than 5 feet stop them at that
height. When the fruit is cleared cut the old canes down to the ground
at once. Plenty of water and liquid manure with an additional mulch
over the roots will benefit the plants.

Outdoor Vines. — Train the current year’s wood as open as possible,
exposing it and the foliage fully to sun and air, as upon this depends
continued fruitfulness. The bearing shoots being stopped one or two
joints beyond the bunches according as space is available, the subsequent
laterals formed must be pinched to one leaf. Fruitless shoots, if any,
stop to six or seven leaves. Tie in the fruiting shoots securely. Thin out
the berries freely, going over the bunches a second time if necessary. Allow
one bunch only to a shoot. Support the Vines well at the root during
the swelling of the fruit, applying water and liquid manure.

Outdoor Fig’S. — Retain no more of the current year’s shoots than
can be comfortably laid in without crowding, reserving each at full
length. A few shoots, however, if too long to be retained entire, but
for which space can be found if shortened to five or six leaves, may be
stopped as indicated. Stop the extremities of shoots bearing Figs to the
fourth leaf above the fruit. This serves to concentrate the vigour while
still encouraging a proper circulation of the sap to feed the fruit.

Propagating Strawberries. — Rooting runners for early plants
must now be attended to. The best are furnished from young fruiting
plants, these, as a rule, being strong and vigorous. A few applications
of water, and a mulching of manure over the roots of old plants, will
assist materially in giving the runners a start, and increasing the size of
the plantlets if at all backward owing to the dry season. A good method
of rooting runners is securing them in small pots three parts filled with
loam and manure, and upon 3 inch squares of turf previously well soaked
in liquid manure. Whether pots or turves are used they should be sunk
in the ground partly, if not wholly, so that they may not dry so quickly.
Peg the runners in position with short wooden or iron pegs, though small
stones laid on the runners nearly answer the same purpose. Water
freely every day, and nip off the points of the runners beyond the pots
or turves. Later runners may be rooted on small heaps of good, rich
soil laid between the rows. Another method consists in securing a
selection of the best runners on the ordinary soil between the plants,
loosening it if necessary and maintaining it moist. In every case
remove the weakest runners from the old plants, whereby those retained
are not crowded and weakened. Beware of propagating from naturally
barren plants as disappointment will follow. Such plants promptly dis¬
card before this characteristic is forgotten.

Trim away the surplus runners from all plants, and from those
planted in the spring cut away the wires close to the plants as they show,
propagating being seldom desirable from these. It is a better plan to
induce as strong growth as possible with a vie-v to obtaining fine crops
of fruit the following year. Hoe down weeds in the driest weather.
After rain strongly growing weeds may be pulled up, effecting this before
the seed falls. Plan'ations marked for destruction should not be allowed
to be breeding beds for troublesome weeds where they remain to flower
and ripen seed, which is quickly distributed unnoticed over adjoining
ground. Destroy all such before they flower if the ground cannot be
dug, and the weeds deeply buried at once.

Apples and Fears.— Complete the summer pruning, or the short¬
ening of the breastwood, to from four to six good leaves. If these shoots
are thickly placed, that is, several issuing close together from one spur,
thin some out. The sun will reach down to the base of the shoots left
better. Fruit may still be thinned with advantage to heavily cropped
trees. Some of the Apples removed may be utilised for cooking.

FRUIT FORCING.

Peaches and Nectarines. — Early-forced frees. — Trees wh'ch
were started from early December to the new year will for some time
have been cleared of their fruit, and having the wood on which the
fruit was borne removed, if not extension, as soon as the fruit was
gathered, those retained may be exposed to light and air. It is, of
course, essential that the buds be properly formed and perfected, and.
the wood thoroughly matured, which is encouraged by clean culture and
proper supplies of nourishment. The trees, therefore, must be syringed
and cleansed of insects, if necessary, by the prompt application of an
approved insecticide, and supplied with water, or in the case of weakly
trees liquid manure at the roots. A light mulching will a'so tend to
keep the roots at the surface, and prevent the premature ripening of the
foliage. The buds in most cases will be sufficiently plumped, and the
wood firm enough to allow the roof lights being removed. This should
not further be delayed, unless the trees are unusually vigorous, when
the lights may remain on a time longer or if lifting is to be done until
that is performed. The removal of the root lights is an old and com¬
mendable practice, ensuring complete rest for the trees, and the-
thorough moistening of the borders by the autumn rains.

S'lccesslon Houses. — Trees started in February have the fruit ripe,
and in some cases cleared of their crops. As the fruits are removed cut
out the shoots that have borne them, and thin the growths where they
are so close that the foliage cannot have full exposure to light and air..

Jul7 13, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

43

Cleanse the trees of dust by means of the syringe or engine. Red spider
or other insect pests must be subdued by the prompt employment of an
insecticide. Keep the borders thoroughly moist, feeding with liquid
manure if the trees have carried heavy crops, are at all weakly, or do
not plump the buds. Stop all laterals to one joint on vigorous trees, or
allow a little lateral growth if the trees have the buds in an advanced
state, this preventing premature ripening of the foliage. When the
wood is matured and the buds well formed remove the roof lights. The
exposure to dew and rain has an invigorating effect.

Trees Started in March. — The fruit of the second early and mid¬
season varieties, which only are worth growing for supplies after May
under forcing treatment, are taking the last swelling, and should have
the leaves drawn aside and the fruit raised by means of laths across the
wires of the trellis, so that the apex will be to the light. Inside and
outside borders must be watered, and liquid manure supplied until the
fruit commences to ripen. A light mulch of lumpy manure will lessen
the need of supplies of water, but avoid heavy mulching. Ventilate
early, or rather increase it, as a little air on all night is beneficial, and
syringe by 7 A.M., ventilating freely through the day. When the sun loses
power in the afternoon begin to reduce the air and so as to raise the
temperature to 85° or 90°, with a syringing and damping of the surface.
This, however, must be done with judgment, for when the sun is power¬
ful and the house closed the water may be heated so as to scorch the
leaves, which occurs in span-roofed houses running east and west.
Water also hanging for any length of time on the fruit during the last
swelling is liable to damage the skin, causing it to crack and imparting
a musty flavour ; therefore have the fruit dry before nightfall, and in
dull weather syringe only in the morning or damp the floors and borders
instead of wetting the trees. Cease syringing directly the fruit com¬
mences ripening, but damp surfaces, especially the borders, whenever
they become dry, and ventilate rather freely.

Late Houses. — The fruit in these is quite three weeks earlier than
usual and requires abundant ventilation to retard it. This necessitates
frequent attention to damping and giving supplies of water at the
roots. Syringe well in the morning and afternoon. Keep the shoots
tied down as they advance, allowing no more than are necessary for next
year’s bearing, or for furnishing the trees, so that the foliage will have
full exposure to light and air. Stop laterals to one leaf, retaining
growth to attract the sap to the fruit. Gross shoots which push laterals
from the leaf buds, cut back to where the buds remain intact, or if
likely to disarrange the equalisation of the vigour of the tree, remove
them altogether. Draw the leaves away from the fruit, affording sa
much light and sun as possible. This is important, for the higher the
colour the better the flavour of the fruit.

Unheated Houses or Wall Cases. — These generally contain several
varieties and have the fruit in various stages. Ours consist of the mid¬
season and late varieties, the stoning being completed and now taking
the last swelling. The trees are well supplied with liquid manure, it
being run directly from the manure cart on the border by means of hose
pipes. With plenty of nourishment at the roots and the foliage disposed
so that it has light and air from all points, the fruit swells kindly and
colours well. Keep the growths thinly disposed, every shoot given full
exposure to sun and air. Syringe about 7 A.M. ; admit a little air
constantly, and increase the ventilation with the advancing temperature,
having it full at 75°. Syringe again in the afternoon about 5 p.m. If
red spider appear, subdue it by forcible syringing or the prompt
application of an insecticide.

Figs. — Second Crop. — The fruit of planted-out trees started about
the new year is in an advanced state, and this second crop must be
thinned where too plentiful, reserving that at the base of the shoots,
which swells and finishes better than at the points, where fruit must not
be taken if a full first crop is desired another season. Avoid heavy
second crops for a similar reason, for heavily taxed trees will not afford
satisfactory early crops. Train the shoots thinly, allow plenty of
space in the ties for the shoots to swell, and stop side shoots at about the
fifth leaf, but only leave those for which there is room, and so as not to
interfere with the extension or successional growths. Supply water
copiously ; if the surface is mulched with sweetened horse droppings the
manuiial elements will be washed into the soil each time water is
applied and ammonia be given off, and the roots be attracted to and
kept active at the surface. Trees in narrow borders may need water
every day in hot weather, others once or twice a week according to the
extent of the rooting area. Syringe twice a day forcibly to dislodge
red spider. With proper feeding and attention to air moisture there will
be little need for insecticides, but red spider must be kept in check, and
scale removed with a brush and a soapy solution. Admit a little air
constantly, increase it early, and close in good time with plenty of
atmospheric moisture, then the fruit will swell to a good size, and a free
circulation of rather dry air when ripening will insure Figs in
perfection.

Fig Trees in Pots for Early Forcing. — It is important that the trees
have plenty of light, are not crowded, and are well ventilated to solidify
the growths. Syringe the trees twice a day in hot weather and occasion¬
ally only in dull, keeping the foliage perfectly free from insects.
Afford liquid manure at roots, as well-fed and properly matured growths
only produce really good first crops. Stopping to induce a neat habit is
necessary in young plants, but it must not be practised later than this,
or the young growths will not have time to mature and form embryonic
Figs at the joints. Trees for early forcing must only bear light second
crops, taking care to remove any fruit showing now or later, and keeping
the points of the shoots well exposed to the light.

iK

m BDE-KEEPBR.

.~i~ I , i . I . r. I .T. 1 -7 » I ■ i~~r- r* f » r- I ■

APIARIAN NOTES.

The first week of July was the busiest of the whole season.
On the Ist I took several hives and nuclei to the Heather for the
purpose of getting a little Wild Thyme honey, and to secure pure
fertilisation of some Punic queens, also to prepare the site for
sixty hives. I have never seen Heather so early and so promising.
With ten days or so fine weather during the next four weeks there
will be a large yield of honey. The bees are all in the best condi¬
tion for gathering.

PuNics AND Crossed Syrians.

Punics have done remarkably well in many places, and with
myself. The hive referred to in the two last numbers of the
Jour7ial of Horticulture has given to its owner in a day or two
more than a month after being hived 75 lbs. in supers and sections.
The gross weight on the 7th, including surplus removed, was 140 lbs.,
tare 30 lbs., nett 110. The parent hive has yielded about 56 lbs.,
the nett of it being 100 lbs. The second swarm from it was lost.
It would be worth the while of persons in quest of information
and instructions on bees to visit Blantyre, where both Punic bees
and practical bee-keepers with their weighty hives may be seen.
My crossed Syrians are wonderful heavy. These and the Punics
are the only unswarmed ones, but others of the same breeds have
swarmed.

It is many years since I drew the attention of your readers to
the fact that by caging a queen on top of a hive having a laying or
virgin queen a swarm issued. I have several cases where I gave
two Punic queen cells, thinking they might destroy one as they
hatched out. Singular to say these queens were ripe for hatching
on June 20th, and were still piping on July 7th. Three of them
swarmed, but in every case went back to the parent hive. It is
frequently advised to throw back an after-swarm on the parent
hive after it has been off a few hours, and it will not swarm again.
This, however, is erroneous advice, for so long as two queens
exist in one hive they are liable to swarm at any moment, which
may be prolonged for three weeks, as in the cases stated above,
and that is the reason why we deposed one of the queens in the
two-queens-in-one-hive system.

I have also had several cases of swarming where stray young
queens entered other hives than their own. The foregoing are but
a few of many similar cases which I have experienced. Some bee¬
keepers argue that a fertilised queen sometimes takes an airing.
I do not believe that, but in every case where queens were seen on
the wing during any part of the year they were surplus queens
from their own hive, or a neighbouring one ; because queens are
bred if required during every month of the year.

One important item I have omitted to mention is, that the
supers and sections taken from the crossed Punic referred to were
not supplied with foundation deeper than half an inch, only starters,
or the yield might have been still greater. — A Lanarkshire Bee¬
keeper.

Swarming.

How does “ A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper ” account for bees
swarming on a Sunday oftener than any other day in the week ?
I have two stock hives side by side, which sent out their first
swarms on Sunday, June 18th ; and as I have not had any
swarms do the like before, I am at a loss to know whether I have
acted rightly or not. The first swarm had just clustered on a
Currant bush, when out came No. 2, and clusters with No. 1.
Taking the branch and more than half of the cluster I placed
them gently into a bar-frame hive, and supplied them with eight
frames, two of them being filled with food and brood. The rest of
the cluster was laying on the ground, which I thought, if properly
hived, would possibly have a queen and settle ; but it was soon to
be seen the bees were not settled, as they came out and clustered
under the landing board of the other newly hived swarm. There
they hung for two days, and when, on the 20th, I picked up a dead
queen in front of this hive they joined the other inmates, and all
have worked peaceably together. I then filled up the hive — a
thirteen framed one — and placed a 28 lb. section rack on the top.
Is this right, or is it possible to do anything more ? The stock
hives are ten and eleven framed. I shall also be glad to know if
any swarm will be of much use after this date. Any advice for
the future working will be highly appreciated by — H. Richardson,
Barnsley.

[That bees swarm sometimes on a Sunday there is no doubt,
but in my experience not more frequently than on any other day.
Bees always make preparations from eight to ten days previous to

44

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 13, 1893.

swarming, after which, in from six to ten days more, the after¬
swarms come, unless the first swarm has been delayed bejond its
normal time through unfavourable weather. In such cases the
after-swarm may come any 'time from one to eight or ten days after
the prime swarm, which, under the above circumstances, may have
a young queen, the old one invariably meeting an untimely end by
her rival daughters or the bees themselves. One point of great
moment to the bee-keeper as regards profit is to hasten the end of
the plurality of queens after swarming has commenced — that is, by
destroying all queen cells unless one about eight days after the
first swarm. At the same time form a nucleus, or several nuclei,
as surety against the loss of the queen of the old stock, and have
in readiness queens to add to any swarmed hive shortly after the
issue of the prime swarm. Sometimes the summer goes past
while the queen remains a virgin, from the fact that somehow or
other the bees permit a plurality of queens without attempting to
swarm or to kill them. I have three such hives that have piped
for no less than three weeks, whereas had the surplus ones been
killed they might have nearly hatched by this time. The three
cases mentioned had their quesn cells duly excised and young
Punic queens added, but second batches of these were so superior
to the first that I introduced a second ripe queen cell to each, and
they have piped ever since. When two or more swarms come at
the same time, the bees — either through several queens or stranger
bees, or both — will not settle, and it is better to allow the union,
or catch both or more queens, and let them go back to their
respective hives. Under the circumstances you acted wisely, and
the best that could be done. The Heather and the Limes are the
only two sources of honey now likely to be profitable. — A. L. B. K.]

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

F. Cooper, Manners Street, Wellington. — Garden and Agricultural
Seeds.

J. V. Van Zanten & Zonen, Hillegom, near Haarlem. — Dutch Bulbs.

•**A11 correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editok” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Vegetables for Exhibition (jR. P.'). — You should have sent the
list for confirmation or suggested alterations. To publish a list that
might differ more or less materially and yet not be substantially better
would inevitably lead to confusion and be the reverse of helpful under
the circumstances.

Tomato Fruits Diseased (//. F. Smith'). — The truits are viru¬
lently attacked with Cladosporium Lycopersici, as illustrated in the
Journal of Horticulture, March 19th, 1892, page 386. They are beyond
remedy, and should be gathered and burned. Notes on the prevention
of Tomato disease appear in the present and preceding issues.

Canker Insects {J. Hiam). — You appear to think, and indeed say,
that you can find insects on cankered wood with your pocket lens that
Mr. Abbey cannot find with the microscope. We have to say that if
there had been insects on the specimen when he received it they would
have been discovered. We have made close microscopic search for
insects alleged by you to have caused canker in specimens submitted.
The only insects were such as affect decayed wood, and they certainly
were not the cause but the consequence of the canker. We begin to
want to see this pocket lens canker-causing insect magnified. It is like
the sea serpent, a great deal talked about but not seen except by the
favoured few — three individuals, we think, out of about thirty millions
in the famous case. Please send a correct drawing of the creature, so
that we may publish it, for convincing the other 29,999,997, or those of
them who may be interested in the subject. We fear it will be useless
sending more specimens unless you send the “ pocket lens” with them,
for they do not reveal themselves under our microscope, and it appears
to be the same with Mr. Abbey’s. Have a correct drawing prepared, and
make yourself famous as a discoverer.

Tomato Disease {S. J. A.). — No mistake has been made as to
the nature of the disease with which your Tomatoes are being over¬
run. The cladosporium does not affect the leaves before these are
fully matured, but that does not alter the fact that “ soft ” — that is
to say, rankly grown — stems and leaves [are the most predisposed to
attack. The disease is most virulent in a moist atmosphere, and in
dull weather especially it is false economy to dispense with fire heat.
One of the remedies that has been found useful is an extra strong
heat, brought about principally by means of the hot-water pipes,
accompanied by an atmosphere as dry as it can be kept for two or
three days. “ Market Grower ” is fully capable of taking care of
himself, and we wish you could grow Tomatoes as well as he does.
You are evidently a believer in the doctrine “ in a multitude of
councillors is wisdom.” May we add — and bewilderment ?

Campanulate Foxglove (Dr. It.). — As we have before remarked,
the terminal campanulate flowers in Foxgloves are abnormal and not
uncommon. Abnormal floral forms also occur in other plants with

Irregular monopetaloug corollas, as in Linaria vulgaris var. Peloria,
which was illustrated in the'Journal of Horticulture for July 28th, 1892,
page 85. In the Foxglove the corolla usually becomes enlarged and
split into spreading segments, as shown in the specimen depicted in the
accompanying illustration (fig. 7). We have seen many similar
instances, but the precise cause of such changes has not been revealed,
Sub-Xeaves from IMCidrlb of Branching Broccoli (T. H. S.). —
The outgrowths from the midrib of the leaf are not uncommon in
Brassicas, and may be due to the unusual drought, which has caused
adventitious buds to form in the midrib where the veins radiate from
it. One of the outgrowths is a miniature leaf, and from it proceeds a
growth corresponding to the flowering branches of the head. The
other has no leaf, but a distinct shoot about an inch long, with leaves
from an eighth to a quarter of an inch in length, and there are buds in
the centre not unlike those of flowers, into which they would probably
develop if the weather continued dry. It is a great curiosity, and is no
doubt due to the richness of the soil and the extraordinary weather.
This has concentrated the vital forces on the midrib, forming it into a
sort of stem, and buds have been formed and shoots produced therefrom
as from the axils of the leaves. It generally occurs when the soil is rich
and the plants vigorous.

July 13, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

45

Vines Unhealtby (i?. A."). — Your letter, through not having been
addressed to “ The Editor,” has remained unopened until there is no
time left to give other than a brief reply. Lime water may be given
with safety. Wire worms can be trapped with Carrots or Potatoes.

Crapes Scalded QR. A. L'E.). — We cannot name unripe Grapes.
The berries sent are scalded, and the reply to “ J. G.” applies equally to
your case. As your Grapes may be Muscats a light shade, such as a
screen of herring nets or sprinkling the glass with limewash, may be
advisable in extremely hot weather ; and the hotter it is the greater the
danger of a low night temperature, particularly if there is moisture in
the house with the ventilators closed, or not opened soon enough in the
morning.

Crapes Scalded (.7. — The Grapes have been carefully

examined. They are scalded more or less over every part, quite as much
on the lower part of the bunch and under side of the berries as at the
upper part of the bunch and top side of the berries. It is a bad, but not
uncommon case. It shows that the night temperature has been low and
the atmospheric moisture considerable, wdth the house closed. The sun
acting upon such in the morning quickly heats and expands the
moisture-laden air, and this, forced against cooler or less rapidly heated
substances, as the upper surfaces of leaves, the berries of Grapes, cold
walls, or water pipes, condenses, and this water being often 10° to 15°,
and not infrequently 20° to 30° higher in temperature than the skin or
cuticle of the berries, the parts most exposed, either to the sun or the
surrounding atmosphere, have the epidermal tissues destroyed, and when
evaporation takes place from such parts they shrink. If the Grapes are
examined closely it will be noticed that the scalding has occurred before
air has been admitted, and the discolouration and shrinking is only due
to the evaporation which follows the ventilation. Had the ventilation
commenced with the heating and expansion of the atmosphere by the
sun, evaporation taking place from the berries instead of moisture being
condensed upon them, and they had been warmed correspondingly with
the surrounding air, it is certain scalding would not have occurred. It
is prevented by fire heat, so as to maintain a night temperature of 65° to
70°, and a little more by day artificially. This admits of air being
given, and moisture does not condense on the berries. A temperature
of 70° by artificial means and enough air to promote a circulation is a
complete preventive of scald, but it may occur in Muscat of Alexandria
on the upper part of the bunches when they are exposed to the direct
rays of the sun, especially on bright weather succeeding a cold dull
period, then a slight shade is necessary. As scalding is only likely to
occur in Lady Downe’s from a fortnight to three weeks before the
colouring is well pronounced it is advisable to employ a little fire heat,
ao as to maintain a rather warm and somewhat dry atmosphere during
that time, and until the berries are all assuming their ripening hue.

Constructing- a Grape Room (77. B.). — As your wall is only
8 feet high the lean-to to allow for head room could only be narrow, but
a width of 6 feet inside will allow of racks being placed against both
walls. There is no objection to your using galvanised corrugated iron
for the roof, with provision for ventilation, a few small openings
sufficing. The straw will act as a non-conductor, and the walls should be
lined with boards kept about an inch from the face. The floor may be
formed of tiles or cement, the latter preferably, as it is needful to
keep out rats. It will be necessary to provide pipes for heating so as to
exclude frost and expel damp, fixing them as far from the racks as
possible, say in the centre or path. A flow and return 2 inch pipe would
be sufficient. Hacks may be easily made by fixing uprights 3 inches by

2 inches against the sides at 3 feet apart, narrow surface outwards.
At 18 inches from the floor line fix shelves between the uprights

3 inches by IJ inch, broad surface upwards, and the back edge 1 inch

higher than the front, to which affix a J inch square lath flush with
the face on the upper surface, forming a ledge. At the same height
above the first shelf fix another, and so on to within 18 inches of the top
of the uprights. Proceed in a similar manner between the other
uprights, forming shelves from the floor, 18 inches between, all on the
same levels and heights. The shelves are for the bottles to rest on. At
1) inches above the level of each shelf fix a rail 2J inches by IJ, narrow
face outwards, kept 1 inch from the face of the uprights by a strip of
wood corresponding with the face of the upright, and the thickness of
the rail, and secure the rail to the upright with screws. The bottom
side of the rail should be 9 inches above the top of the shelf. Then cut
notches 1^ inch wide and 1 inch deep on the inner edge of the rail for
the neck of each bottle to rest in at 9 inches distance apart. Nothing
more is required but the bottles. These are perhaps best ordinary pint-
and-a-half wine or spirit bottles of clear glass. Filled with water they
can be stood on the shelves with the neck in the notches easily and
safely. >

The Caper Plant (77. 71.).— Capparis spinosa, as we have before
stated, from -which the capers of commerce are obtained, grows
abundantly in the south of Europe, along the shores and on the islands
of the Mediterranean, and in Syria. It is generally found wild on walls
and rocks ; it is met with on the walls of Rome, Sienne, and Florence,
and is extensively cultivated in the south of Europe, ■ particularly
between Marseilles and Toulon, and in many parts of Italy ; but it is
from Sicily that the greatest supply is brought. The flower buds form
the capers so much used as a pickle and a sauce, but in some parts the
fruit is also employed. In the early part of summer the plant begins
to flower, and the flowers continue to appear successively till the
beginning of winter. The young flower buds are picked every morning,
and as they are gathered they are put into vinegar and salt ; and this

operation continues for six months, as long as the plants are in a
flowering state. When the season closes the buds are sorted according
to their size and colour, the smallest and greenest being the best ; these
are again put into vinegar, and then packed up for sale and exportation.
Capers are stimulant, antiscorbutic, and are much employed as a condi¬
ment, but the medicinal virtues of the plant reside in the root, which is
slightly bitter, somewhat acrid and sour, and is diuretic.

N’ames of Fruits. — Notice. — Special attention is directed to the
following decision, the object of which is to discourage the growth of
inferior and promote the culture of superior varieties. In consequence
of the large number of worthless Apples and Pears sent to this office to
be named, it has been decided to name only specimens and varieties of
approved merit, and to reject the inferior, ichich are not worth sending
or growing. The names and addresses of senders of fruit to be named
must in all cases be enclosed with the specimens, whether letters
referring to the fruit are sent by post or not. The names are not
necessarily required for publication, initials sufficing for that. Only six
specimens can be named at once, and any beyond that number cannot
be preserved. (IF. N. P.j. — The Apple is the Early Red Margaret or
J uneating. The premature ripening and fruit-falling is probably the
result of the drought.

N'ames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in Arm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
(7. S.'). — Hoya stenophylla. (A. 77,). — Lilium japonicum. (H. 77.).—
Monstera deliciosa. (71, 77.). — 1, Luculia gratissima ; 2, Maranta
albo-lineata. (71 Johnson). — 1, Lysimachia nummularia ; 3, Astrantia
minor ; 4, Tradescantia virginica ; 5, Centaurea speciosa. The others
withered. ((7. J, S.). — 1, Altrcemeria aurantiaca ; 2, Geranium pratense
flore-pleno ; 3, a Ceanothus, no flowers. {G. A.). — 1, Crataegus crus-
galli, variety ; 2, Fraxinus heterophylla ; 3, Crinum capense.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— July 12th.

No alteration. Supplies heavy with steady business doing.

FRUIT.

8.

d.

s.

d.

d.

3.

d.

Apples, half sieve . . . .

0

0 to 0

0

Grapes per lb .

1

6

to 2

G

„ Tasmanian, per case

6

0

12

0

Lemons, case .

10

0

15

0

„ Nova Scotia, per

Oranges, per 100 .. ..

4

0

9

0

barrel .

0

0

0

0

Peaches, per doz .

1

G

8

0

Cherries, half sieve . . . .

3

0

6

0

St. Michael Pines, each . .

2

0

5

0

Gooseberries, half sieve . .

1

6

2

0

Strawberries, per lb. .. ..

0

G

1

6

VKGrSXABIiKS.

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

Asparagus, per bundle . .

0

0

to 0

0

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2

to 0

0

Beans, Kidney, per lb. . .

0

6

1

0

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

5

Beet, Red, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

a

0

3

0

Carrots, bunch .

0

4

0

0

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . . . .

a

0

3

0

Potatoes, per cwt .

a

0

5

0

Celery, bundle .

1

0

1

3

Salsafy, bundle . . . . . .

1

0

1

8

Ooleworts, dozen bunches

a

0

4

0

Scorzonera, bundle . . . .

1

6

0

0

Cucumbers, dozen . . . .

1

6

3

0

Seakale, per basket . . . .

0

0

0

0

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb .

0

3

0

0

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel .

3

0

3

6

Leeks, bunch .

0

a

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

4

0

6

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

G

Mushrooms, punnet . . . .

0

9

1

0

AVERAGE WHOLESALE PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.
Orchid Blooms in variety.

s.

d.

S.

d

8.

d.

s.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms .,

1

6

to 3

0

Myosotis, dozen bunches . .

1

6

to 3

0

Bouvardias, bunch .. ..

0

6

1

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

0

12

6

Calceolaria, dozen bunches

4

0

6

0

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

9

0

Carnations, 12 blooms

1

0

3

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

Carnations, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

bunches .

3

0

6

0

Cornflower, dozen bunches.

1

6

3

0

Pinks, dozen bunches ....

2

0

6

0

Eucharis, dozen .

3

0

4

0

Primula (double) 12 sprays

0

9

1

0

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

6

0

Lilium candidum, dozen

Roses (indoor), dozen

0

6

1

6

blooms .

0

6

1

0

„ Red, doz. bunches ..

4

0

8

0

Lilium longiflorum 12

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

0

blooms .

2

0

4

0

„ Yellow, dozen .. ..

0

4

0

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

Sweet Peas, doz. biuiches..

3

0

G

0

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Sweet Sultan, doz. bunches

3

0

4

0

Marguerites, 12 bimches . ,

2

0

4

0

Tuberoses, 12 blooms , . . .

0

4

0

6

Mignonette, 12 bunches . .

3

0

G

0

PLANTS IN POTS.

s.

d.

8.

d.

s.

d.

s.

J.

Arbor Vit® (golden) dozen

6

0 to 12

0

Ivy Geraniums .

4

0

to 6

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Lilium lancifolium per doz.

12

0

24

0

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen

12

0

24

0

Calceolaria, per dozen

4

0

6

0

Lobelia, per doz .

3

0

6

0

Campanula, per dozen

9

0

18

0

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

3

0

4

0

Crassula. per dozen . .

12

0

24

0

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . .

6

0

12

0

Dracaena terminalis, dozen 18

0

42

0

Mignonette, per doz .

4

0

6

0

„ viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Musk, per dozen .

2

0

4

0

Ericas, various .

12

0

24

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Euonvmus, var., dozen ..

6

0

18

0

Nasturtiums, per dozen . .

4

0

6

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24

0

Palms, in var., each .. ..

1

0

15

0

Ferns, iu variety, dozen . .

4

0

18

0

„ (specimens) .. ..

21

0

63

0

Ferns (smalD pf r liundred

4

0

6

0

Pelargoniums, per dozen..

G

0

12

0

Ficus elastica, each . , . .

1

6

7

6

„ scarlet, per dozen . .

3

0

6

0

Foliage plants, var., each . .

2

0

10

0

Petunia, per dozen . . . .

6

0

9

0

Fuchsia, per dozen . . . .

5

0

9

0

„ single, in boxes . .

1

6

3

0

Hydrangea, per dozen . .

12

0

24

0

46

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 1-3, 1893.

VACANT FARMS.

Mixed farming generally, as was indicated last week, is
without doubt advisable as a rule ; the exceptions are dairy,
fruit, vegetable, and corn farms. Let us glance briefly at each
class of farm in view of hiring one of them— not that this is so
simple a matter as it may seem to the uninitiated. The popular
idea that there are plenty of vacant farms everywhere, and that
every farm is re-let at a heavy reduction of rent, most certainly
does not apply to really good dairy farms. Reference to the
rent roll of an estate consisting entirely of grass farms shows
that the rents range now at from 378. to 60s. per acre. For a
farm at the lower rent, which fell in last Lady Day, we had five
applicants, and for another becoming vacant next April there
are already four offers at the old rental of 408. per acre. These
farms are in the midlands, but even in Essex we have had no
difficulty in obtaining a rent of 30s. per acre for fair pasture — a
very different thing to much of the poor exhausted corn land of
that county.

Turning to the rent roll of an East Anglian estate of corn
farms we have a striking contrast to grass land rentals, those of
the corn land ranging from 14s. per acre downwards to very
little more than half that amount. It is only by making such
ruinous reductions that tenants have been kept upon the land at
all. On this particular estate there is the melancholy satisfaction
that not one farm is vacant, while on neighbouring estates there
are thousands of acres in hand. Nothing will induce the tena,nts
to change or modify their practice ; corn-growing or nothing
appears to be a life maxim with them, and though the heavy
rent reduction enables them to struggle on they have still to
meet a large outlay for labour. Take for example one of the
farms on this estate. Out of its total area of 859 acres there
are not 30 acres in pasture, so that we may certainly
estimate that there are 800 acres of it ai’able. Much of it
is light land, but at best the outlay for tillage is a heavy
matter. The staple produce is Barley and sheep, and we have
no doubt the excellent flock of Suffolk sheep on this farm has
stood the tenant in good stead under the depression. One point
of practice worthy of all praise in East Anglian farming is the
systematic sheep folding, which tends so materially to sustain
soil fertility. We have striven in vain to induce our tenants in
the midlands to adopt the prac'ice on hill farms in the winder, to
stimulate some of their poor pasture. But they are slaves to
custom ; not one of them has ever set a sheep fold, nor have
they any hurdles suitable for the purpose.

Of their comparatively highly rented farms we can say that
even under an easy-going system of management they answer,
and there can be no doubt that dairy farms are profitable even
when devoted sole’y to the production of milk for sale ; they
ought to be much more so under the manufacture of first- class
butter and cheese. But we must not forget that at a milk farm
pure and simple there is no dairy work ; all the expense of a
dairy plant or of butter and cheese making is avoided. Rich
pasture, healthy cows, that before all things else are deep
milkers, no matter what breed they may be, plenty of water and
a refrigerator for cooling the milk, a sufficient stock of 17-gallon
railway milk cans (which cost about £1 apiece), a station horse
and cart or van, nearness to a railway station, with a milk
market at not more than twenty or thirty miles’ distance by
rail. These ar.e the few and simple conditions for the wou'd-be
milk farmer to bear in mind. If to these he can add a few acres
of arable land for roots, and such fodder crops as Yetches,

Lucerne, Clover, Sainfoin, Rye Grass, mixed seeds, Green
Maize, Cattle Cabbage, and Thousand-headed Kale, he will have
every facility for a business which can be managed with a
very moderate expenditure for labour. Outside some such
radius as we have indicated it would be greatly to the advantage
of the producer if milk could be diverted from the great centres of
population to local butter or cheese factories, or under favourable
conditions to the home productions of cheese and butter.

For cheese and butter making there must be a well ventilated,
well drained dairy, so placed that no impure air comes near it
from cattle yards, stables, piggeries, manure heap, or sewer, or
taint will be imparted to the milk, cream, or curds, as the case
may be. In it the milk is passed through the separator for
butter, or is brought to a proper temperature to receive the
rennet for cheese. Butter and cheese should both be made
there, the cheese being taken thence to a room with shelves,
ventilators, and heating apparatus ; the butter to a cool store
room on slates, with only wall brackets to receive them, and
a central packing table or slate slab.

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

If the annual insurance of crop and stock does not include corn or
haystacks on outlying land, the prompt insurance of such stacks should
always be done, as they are especially liable to accidents from the care¬
less use of matches by vagrants. Once on fire there is little hope of
saving them, as they may burn for some time before being seen, and
when they are seen much time is usually lost before real efforts are made
to extinguish the fire. On a property which came into our hands some
time ago, the buildings of a certain homestead had been destroyed by
fire and rebuilt. Among the new buildings were some neat looking
stables of brickwork, but the common mistake had been made of
leaving the inner walls exposed, with the equally common result of
bricks and mortar being kicked to pieces by the horses. All brickwork
in stables must be covered to a height of 5 feet with stout match board -
ing, to prevent this vexatious destruction of property. This is entirely
a matter for the owner or agent of the property to see to. In our
experience we have not found tenants to trouble themselves about it.

Milch cows should be kept in by day during this sultry weather or
they will be so worried by flies as to be constantly rushing about the
pasture to their detriment and a serious falling off in the milk yield.
Not only is it a humane thing to have commodious well ventilated
hovels which can be closed for this purpose, but it is decidedly profit¬
able. With a good cut of Clover, Lucerne, or other green fodder going,
the hovel or cowhouse racks are filled regularly twice during the day,
so that the cows can quietly feed in comfort and then be turned out
after the evening milking. Here, again, the few acres of arable land on a
dairy farm tell in an acceptable supply of green fodder as an invaluable
auxiliary to the permanent pasture, enabling the grazier to do the best
thing for his own advantage in the better management of his stock.

Especial attention has been given to pig breeding so as to have a
large number ready for the corn stubbles. This is an easy matter as
young sows come into breeding so early, and it is certainly desirable to
breed sows as well as store pigs while they are so dear. We have
recently seen some enormous sows in the Midlands, and must needs
repeat our warning against keeping such unwieldly animals.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamden Squarb, Loxdox.

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

Date.

9 A.M.

Ix THE Day.

Bain.

1893.

July.

1 Barometer

1 at 32°, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

G-rass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday ..

2

30-146

69-4

62-6

N.E.

64-1

83-6

68-4

116-9

55-8

—

Monday . .

3

30-133

69-7

60-7

E.

64-9

83-2

58-9

125-7

57-4

—

Tuesday . .

4

30-056

64-6

57-2

E.

65-1

76-7

65-0

121-9

52-1

0-180

Wednesday

5

29-787

65-0

61-2

N.E.

65-0

76-7

54-3

112-0

54-5

—

Thursday . .

6

29-995

69-3

61-8

N.B.

63-9

85-7

54-6

120-4

51-7

—

Friday

7

29-993

72-2

60-9

E.

65-0

90-7

54-1

128-2

48-4

_

Saturday . .

8

29-736

80-2

67-2

S.

66-3

88-4

63-2

130-3

66-4

0-456

29-978

70-1

61-7

64-9

83-6

56-9

122-2

53-8

0-636

REMARKS.

2nd. — Hot, hazy, and oppressive ; clouds at times in evening.

3rd. — Generally sunny, but a good deal of cirro-cumulus cloud.

4tli. — Bright breezy day, cloudy at times in afternoon, overcast evening, and rain
from 10 P.M.

5th.— Bain till 2 A.M., overcast morning, spots of rain at noon, occasional gleams of
sun in afternoon, cloudless evening.

6th. — Hot, clear, and almost cloudless,

7th. — Sunny and hot, but calm and a little hazy.

8th. — Sunny and hot, but some breeze ; heavy rain with lightning and thunder from
4.30 P.M. to 6.30 P.M., showers again at night.

A very hot week, hotter than any week in Jubilee year (1887), or than in any year
back to 1882 at least.— G. J. Symoxs,

Jidy 20, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

47

NOW that the rain has come and moistened the parched earth
gardeners, farmers, and amateurs — indeed all who engage
in the cultivation of the soil, will to a more or less considerable
extent be relieved from the anxiety that in some cases was
almost too heavy to be borne. Artificial watering has been
indispensable in gardens over a long period in order to prevent
the collapse of plants and crops ; but notwithstanding all the
labour devoted to it, and it has absorbed most of the time of
many workers, anything like satisfactory growth and a full
supply of seasonable produce could not be produced. The earth
might be moistened for short periods, but the parchingly dry
atmosphere was a great counteracting force and uncontrollable
obstacle to the progress of vegetation.

Trying indeed the season has been even to persons engaged in
gardens who have had a good water supply at hand ; but to obtain
and distribute it has been almost heart-breaking work to many an
earnest man, and such men envied those with water “ laid on ” and
hose to conduct it where required. With the home water supply
practically exhausted and only limited quantities obtainable from a
distance, then did the position become almost unendurable, and it
has been a case of “ all hands to the pumps ” except those engaged
in carting or carrying the precious fluid nearly all the hours of day¬
light, with, unfortunately, very little to cheer them for their labour.
We may use water as we may, by hand distribution, the return
is disappointingly small during a season of protracted drought ;
and only when the supply was full, and of the best character, with
adequate mechanical means provided, could lawns be kept green
and plants and crops in a flourishing state in the open air, during
the exhausting period through which we have passed. Even when
all that can be done is done — and we wish more could be
accomplished in water storage — there is nothing like a supply
direct from the clouds — the great restorer of languishing vegetation
— “ sweet refreshing rain.”

This has come at last, and brought relief to thousands of
workers on the land, also in time to be of incalculable benefit,
but too late xo save valuable crops that have been lost to the
husbandman. The most energetic and best cultivators will make
prompt efforts to obtain such compensation as they can in the
form of subsidiary crops, and it is wonderful with what rapidity
those sown or planted late, as referred to in another article, grow
through the autumn months under the earth warmth, now so
great, in combination with the moisture also, we hope, in most
districts prevailing. But the rain, though it opens the land for
working, and stimulates cultivators to make the best of it, may, if
prolonged, summon into activity at least one enemy, the Potato
disease ; and all who wish to avert it by the dressings that have in
many cases proved effectual will do well to act in time.

In the case of this and indeed all fungoid and insect enemies,
nothing is so fatal as procrastination. Prompt action on the first
and faintest symptoms of attack is potent in its influences. A
waiting policy is always dangerous. Two insects are more easily
destroyed than two thousand, and in the former case injury is
averted, while in the latter it has been more or less disastrous. In
dealing with fungoid attacks similar remarks apply, but with
even greater force. Parasitic visitations can be checked and even
destroyed in their infancy, but when deeply established in the

No. 682. — VOL. XXVIL, Third Series.

tissues of the host plants, no matter whether these are Potatoes,
Tomatoes, Vines, or any others, they are practically ineradicable.
In nine cases out of ten when well proved antidotes fail in
accomplishing the desired purpose, it is not the fault of the articles,
but of those who apply them, or who rather fail to do so until the
time has passed for them to act with effect. Yet so much of
perversity do we find in frail humanity that some persons who fail
through their own inactivity are the first to decry the means as
useless, and the moat ready to accuse of incapacity those who have
endeavoured to help them. This has always been so, as all men
of long experience know, and so it is likely to be to the end,
for each generation appears to bring in turn men of similar
idiosyncracies to those who have gone before, but we would fain
hope the peculiars will be fewer year by year.

After the rain, too, we may hope to hear less of under-glass
difficulties — the scorching and scalding of Grapes, and the drying-up
of Cucumbers and Melons, leaving the former bitter and the latter
flavourless. Where the water supply is adequate, and not chilling
in its coldness, such evils, with otherwise good management, are
avertable. This statement, though hard to believe by the victims
of such mishaps, is proved to demonstration by hundreds of
cultivators who, by their skill, foresight, quick perception, and
close attention fortify themselves against the contingencies, and
have none of the troubles to deplore. Insufficiency of moisture,
both in the atmosphere of plant and fruit houses, as well as in the
soil in which Vines, Cucumbers, Melons, and various other plants,
crops, and trees are grown, is one of the main causes of most
of such evils as those indicated, and with which too many persons
have to contend.

We have lived long enough to note that the greater the heat
and more protracted the drought the greater the number of
complaints we hear of Cucumbers and Melons failing to give
satisfaction, and of Grapes shrinking instead of swelling to
maturity. This ought not to be so. All those crops should be
better in bright and hot than in dull and cold seasons, and they
would be with full support and a well-managed system of venti¬
lation and other cultural aids appropriate to the circumstances.
The brighter and more continuous the sun the greater the quantity
of water passes as vapour from the leaves of plants, and therefore
the greater must be the supply for the roots to imbibe, with
proportionate moisture in the atmosphere to counteract extreme
transpiration. When the escape of moisture from the leaves of
whatever may be grown is in excess of that supplied by the roots,
collapse both of foliage and fruit must occur sooner or later. And
with the weakening of the foliage in a too dry atmosphere come
insects, for the conditions that are unfavourable to healthy growth
are in almost the same proportion favourable to the increase of
the foes of the gardener. With thorough health in plants, trees,
and crops, the result of sound culture, and the prevention of checks
and chills, there would be fewer difficulties to encounter, and less
complaints to meet and explanations to make relative to the quality
of the produce supplied.

Why are there so many inferior Cucumbers this year and ill-
flavoured Melons staged at exhibitions ? We have seen hundreds
of both, and not one pair in ten of the former were anything like
so fresh and tempting in appearance as are those grown by
specialists in bulk for the market. In one case the plants have
been comparatively starved and probably insect-infested, and in the
other they have been well fed and kept clean. The half-exhausted
plants may be expected to improve under moister surroundings,
and it is hoped they will do so.

In respect of Melons we are well within the bounds of strict
accuracy in saying that at some, if not most, exhibitions it has
been difficult to find three fruits worthy of the prizes provided for
them. The majority have been distinctly inferior and not a few
positively “nasty,” as many a judge knows too well. In some
instances the result is, perhaps, attributable to the search for

No. 2338.— VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

48

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 20, 1893,

improvement by crossing, this ending in spoiling many fruits through
inferiority of variety ; but in most instances the shortcomings
are due to the late exhausting weather and exhausted plants.
The roots have failed to supply adequate nutriment, and the leaves
failed to manufacture and secrete the requisite juices for the
development of high-class fruit. Insects have, in too many cases,
enjoyed what the plants needed, and when these abound well fed
highly flavoured Melons or any other fruits are out of the question.
Now that rain has come it is hoped that many insects will go.
This will certainly be the case outside, and therefore suggests the
way they may be banished from under glass, as they should be and
must be if cultural success is to be attained.

The hot season has proclaimed with trumpet tongue the value
of high culture — deep rich soil and cleanliness. From Land’s
End to John o’ Groat’s the crops tell the same significant story —
land starvation and neglect leading to ruin ; land enrichment and
high management tending directly in the other direction, the crops
holding out the longest and yielding the best. There is no exception
to the advantages of sound culture, and as in the open air so under
glass, the best work tells and the best men win, not at shows alone,
for that is a comparatively small matter, but reputations at home by
their industry and skill. We want more of such winners, in many
fields especially, as well as in some gardens, alike in the interests of
the producers and the increased prosperity of the country.

PREPARING FOR THE WINTER.

Owing to the abnormally dry weather experienced during the
present season the work of planting vegetables in their winter
quarters has been, in many instances, greatly delayed. Now, how¬
ever, showers have become general all over the country the work
should be completed as quickly as possible, otherwise the plants
will have but a short season of growth. Those that were early
planted have not made much progress this season, except in the
very few instances in which they have been copiously supplied with
water, or when a mulching of short manure or leaf soil has been
given. The advantages to be derived by carrying out the latter
practice with garden crops generally, has, this season, been strikingly
demonstrated, and in all instances where the soil is light or shallow
I strongly advised a mulching to be given now if possible, because
the rapid and long continued evaporation has extracted a vast
amount of fertility from the soil.

To make up for this deficiency a thorough soaking with liquid
manure given to all established plants before the mulching is put
on will be found extremely beneficial, but there should be no
mistake as to what is meant by a “ thorough soaking.” Three
gallons to a square yard may be considered as such, and be

depended upon to moisten the soil down to the roots of the

plants. The drainings from stables, piggeries, or the contents of
other cesspools, will answer the purpose splendidly. Failing these
natural fertilisers, a pound of superphosphate of lime with half
a pound of nitrate of soda, mixed in twenty gallons of water,
makes a good liquid manure, so does 2 lbs. of guano dissolved in
thirty gallons of water, or a peck of soot placed in a muslin bag

and steeped in the same quantity of water. A little timely

attention given to these matters will speedily have a marked effect
upon all crops, and by encouraging early growth the chances of
suffering loss during severe winters is greatly lessened.

Turning to those crops which have yet to be planted, it is well
to set out good breadths of the various kinds of Kales and Cole-
worts which have proved hardy during recent winters. Foremost
among these may be mentioned Asparagus Kale, which has been
quite a “ sheet anchor ” in numerous gardens during the spring
months, at a time when the loss of Broccoli have been much felt.
This fine Kale also possesses the rare quality of having a delicious
flavour when cooked. At this late season, if the rows are 2 feet
apart, the plants will not require to be more than 15 inches
asunder in the rows, or if set between the early Potatoes now
being taken up, the distance between the lines may be a trifle less
to correspond with spaces between the Potatoes. When planted
between late Potatoes I prefer to lay the haulms in the centre of
alternate alleys, set the Kales (in those thus cleared) a foot apart,
and as soon as the tubers have been lifted take up with a spade
every other plant, and replant in the centre of the intermediate
spaces. Late Dwarf Green Curled is another invaluable Kale
suitable for planting largely at the present time ; with us during

the last two seasons it has supplied tender greens up to the time
that Cabbage could be cut in quantity. It requires about the same
space as Asparagus Kale. Late Queen Broccoli ought now to be
of the right size for planting. Taking a lesson from the experience
of last season we are this year depending largely upon this variety
and Leamington, though of course plants of the latter have
already been planted. If the former are set out in rows 2 feet
apart, a distance of 6 inches less between the plants will be found
sufficient. Rosette Colewort and Little Pixie always prove
exceedingly useful during the autumn months. We have now a
good bed of these from sowings made early in June, and the plants
will be set out shortly a foot apart in good rich soil. Plants
resulting from sowings made late in June will also prove useful, but
it will be a great advantage in their case to plant on a warm
border.

Thus far I have dealt especially with those crops which are
particularly adapted for late planting. Where, however, other
varieties of Borecoles and Coleworts, which, during ordinary
seasons are put out at a much earlier date, are not yet planted into
their permanent position, the work may still be done with the
prospect of securing a fair amount of success, though, as a matter
of course, they will not make such strong growth unless we are
favoured with an exceptionally warm autumn. Cottagers’ Kale,
Sprouting Broccoli, Chou de Burghley, Brussels Sprouts, and
Couve Tronchuda are all good varieties to which the foregoing
remarks apply.

Before lifting the plants the soil about the roots should be
thoroughly moistened. If they have been previously pricked out
they may then be lifted with good balls of earth, and will under
such favourable circumstances experience but little check. When
they have to be planted direct from the seed bed it is a good
plan to dip the roots in a puddle made of clay sufficiently thick
to adhere to them ; this frequently wards off the attacks of
grubs, which often make sad havoc with plants destitute of small
fibrous roots. For the convenience of watering the plants should
be set in drills, and a slight hollow left around the stem of each
plant. — H. D.

STRAWBERRY FARMING.

To market gardeners and allotment holders who contemplate
starting a Strawberry patch due consideration and care at the
outset go far towards future success. Assuming that the land is
suitable in aspect and in accordance with the remarks in my last
contribution (page 5) we can pass on to the preparation of the bed
for the plants. Now is a splendid time for beginning operations.
The early Potatoes are coming off, and the land can be easily and
effectually cleaned. This is of paramount importance when we
remember that the plants are to stand for four or five years. The
man who ensures a perfectly clean, deeply cultivated plot, with rich
supplies of good farmyard manure well dug in, need have little
fear.

The plants for the production of marketable fruit must be
hardy, good croppers, producing berries of good size, shape, and
flavour. There are at least three capital varieties, which answer in
almost every particular to this description — viz.. Sir Joseph
Paxton, Laxton’s Noble, and Dr. Hogg ; and any grower could
not go far wrong in selecting all or any of these. The two former
are at present mostly grown in the Hampshire and Surrey fields,
but I believe there is a grand future for the latter, for I saw a
fortnight ago at a local show two dozen berries of the Dr. Hogg
variety which weighed 1 lb. 10^ ozs., and were of exquisite colour,
shape, and flavour. If either of these varieties is chosen, plenty
of space must be given for development, as all are very gross,
and should not be closer than about 30 inches in the rank and
18-22 inches (I prefer 22) between the plants. After planting,
little more than keeping down weeds and pinching off runners
need be done ; the latter is essential, in order to enable the young
plants to get strong before the frosts set in.

The hoe must be kept at work throughout the spring. Many
people pluck the first blooms so that the plants shall not fruit the
first season, but this mode of procedure is not advisable. There
may be a gain in constitutional strength, but under any conditions
the plant will throw two or three new crowns in one season, and
it is from these new crowns that we expect our fruit. In fact,
the largest and best trusses of fruit always grow centrifugal.
Besides, “ a bird in the hand ” is applicable here, and two medium
crops with some immediate returns are preferable. As the young
plants often give the earliest and finest fruit they therefore pay
for a little bedding. Light straw, short rushes, coarse grass, in
short anything which does not contain seeds, is suitable for the
purpose, and should be well laid as soon as the Strawberries reach
the size of marbles. If it can be spread soon after a good rain

July 20, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

49

so much the better. Growers usually run over their plots before
bedding and cut off the remaining runners to throw strength into
the fruit.

Early fruit is gathered in punnets, and sells readily ; but as
soon as the glut comes it is picked into gallon baskets (6^ lbs.)
and sent up to market without further disturbance. Punnets can
be cheaply bought in the winter by the gross, and the gallon
baskets are not expensive, 2s. 6d. or 3s. per dozen. The fruit will
sell readily at the nearest town, but where the fields are of large
size the produce is put on the rail to London, Glasgow, Edinburgh ;
in fact, some of the best prices have this year been obtained in the
two latter towns. The sale is practically certain, but great
judgment is required in placing the fruit. The grower must
know his man.

Strawberry plants bear their maximum crop when three and
four years old. After the fifth year they require lifting, as the
fruit begins to get small. In setting out a piece of land it is there¬
fore necessary to arrange the beds in stages, so that they come in
and go out of cultivation one after the other. When the crop is
off rake up the bedding, and if only a few runners are required
trim the plants with a hook, clear out the rubbish, and set the hoe
to work. Old worn-out plants should be grubbed up and burnt
and the ground dug for Potatoes, thus affording an opportunity of
again getting the land into condition by liberal cultivation and
plentiful supplies of rich manure. — Edward H. Smith,
Warminster.

BACTERIAL DISEASE IN TOMATOES.

Each week since the appearance in the Journal of Horticulture of
my first note respecting the above I have looked eagerly for some
further communications throwing more light upon the subject. It
appears, however, that none is forthcoming, and we must, for the
present at least, be content with Mr. Abbey’s far-from-consoling
assurance that there is no known remedy for the disease.

A few days subsequently to the writing of my former note I paid a
visit to a friend, who showed me several hundreds of Tomato plants
that had succumbed to an attack of this disease, and although my
losses have been trivial, I consider the matter of sufficient importance
to warrant its being thoroughly investigated in hopes of eventually
finding a cure, or better still, a preventive. That seems impossible
without first discovering in what way the bacterial germs or spores are
introduced. Mr. Abbey, in his exceedingly interesting communication,
page 472, ad vises the avoidance of animal manures, with which advice I
entirely concur. At the same time I wish to mention that in the house
where the most stable manure was used this year I have not lost a
plant, whilst last year, in the same house, when Thomson’s and silicate
manures were used and no animal manure, I lost, as nearly as I recollect,
seven or eight plants.

Before reading Mr. Abbey’s report I felt fully convinced that the
disease was not infectious, for on only one occasion have I had two
plants in close proximity to each other die, although I have occasionally
left an infested plant until it was quite withered. Allow me to add,
this is simply my experience, and not intended to reflect suspicion of a
doubt on Mr. Abbey’s statement.

Turning to “ J. F. D.’s ” remarks on page 605, I wish to inform him
that for eight years before coming to this place I had grown Tomatoes
without being troubled with diseased plants or fruits, and probably felt
quite as sceptical respecting their injurious effects as your correspondent
appears to do. Subsequent experience has taught me to believe in and
also to respect Tomato diseases, although of all they are subject to, I
consider the one now under consideration the most to be dread^.

As to procuring seed from one of the best houses in the trade, I agree
with Mr. M’Dougall that the best results do not always follow even
then. In my case the seeds, as before stated, were procured from a
friend whose plants have never been troubled with bacterial disease,
and only to a limited extent with any other. In conclusion I would
like to ask Mr. Iggulden to give us his opinion on this subject, as I was
informed a few days since that he is by no means a stranger to its
effects, both on Tomatoes and Cucumbers. — C. Lock, Bristol.

Dendrobium Hookerianum.

AVhen well grown this is a beautiful Orchid, and it is sur¬
prising that one does not se) it more frequently in small as well
as large collections. Some time since I saw sayeral fine plants
with growths quite 3 '^eet in length, and these bore nnany flowers.
The latter, as a lule, measure from 3 to 4 inches in diameter, and

are of a deep rich yellow colour. The lip is velvety yellow, and
there are two blotches of deep yellow in the throat. This noble
Dendrobium is also, I believe, known as D. chrysotis, under which
name it is sometimes figured. Perhaps an illustration of it would
convey to your readers a better idea of this grand Orchid than will
any description of mine. — Orchidist.

[The accompanying engraving (fig. 8) depicts a bloom of
Dendrobium Hookerianum.]

CiRRHOPETALUM BrIENIANUM.

This species was introduced from Borneo by Messrs. Linden, of
L’Horticulture Internationale, Brussels, with whom it flowered in
March, 1891, when it was sent to Kewfor determination. A plant
from the same source flowered with Mr. James O’Brien, of Harrow-
on-the-Hill, in the following October. It belongs, says the “ Kew
Bulletin,” to the group having the dorsal sepal and petals ciliate or

FIG. 8. — DENDROBIUM HOOKERIANUM.

appendaged, and is allied to C. Makoyanum. The lateral sepals are
light straw-colour, except a small portion near the base, which, as
well as the greater part of the dorsal sepal, petals and lip, is very
dark dull maroon.

CCELOGYNE BORNEENSIS.

According to the “Kew Bulletin” this species belongs to
Lindley’s small section Flexuosm, and may be placed next to the
Javan C. longifolia, Lindl, which has longer and narrower leaves,
and the pseudo-bulb without a slender attenuated neck. It is a
native of Borneo, whence it was introduced by Messrs. Linden, of
L’Horticulture Internationale, Brussels, in whose^ collection it
flowered last August. The flowers are whitish or light buff (this
point remains doubtful owing to the flowers being somewhat
withered), with red-brown reticulations on the side lobes of the
lip, and some markings of similar colour on the front lobe.

Stanhopea Lowi.

This handsome Stanhopea is allied to S. eburnea, Lindl, and
S. Reichenbachiana, Roezl, differing from the former in its globose
hypochil and differently coloured flowers, and from tbe latter
(known only from description) in having the mesochil solid, not
deeply channelled, as Reichenbach twice distinctly states in his
description. The character is an essential one in the genus, other¬
wise the distinctness of the present one might be doubted.

S. Lowi was introduced from New Granada by Messrs. Hugh
Low & Co., of Clapton, and flowered in their collection last
December. The sepals and petals are of a creamy buff
latter with numerous minute brown spots on the disc. The bp is
ivory-white, the upper half of the hypochil with bai-ds of ^^1^
marcon, formed of numerous suffused spots with some scattered
dots between them. The column is pale green, with^ ivory-white
wings. The flowers exhale a powerful, almost Ntrcissus-like
fragrance. — (“Kew Bulletin.”)

60

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 20, 1893.

CANKER IN FRUIT TREES.

Before replying to the articles on this subject by Mr. Kruse,
“ A. D.,’' and Mr. Pendered in the issue of the Journal of Horticulture
of June 22nd (pages 497 and 498), I desire to correct an error in my
paper on “ American Orcharding ” — viz., the “ 3G bushels ” in the first
.sentence of the seventh paragraph on page 437 should have been
2| bushels.

Mr. Kruse’s able description of the soils of the ragstone range of
hills in Kent is interesting and valuable. A brief digest of the condi¬
tions of soil and environment disfavouring or countenancing canker in
Apple and Pear trees on the Kentish rag formation will be instructive
and useful.

1, On the lower slopes of the ragstone range of hills the rock
(calcareous sandstone) is nearest the surface, therefore well drained ;
the ground is the richest from the rainwash or dehrh brought down
from the higher parts of the range, and it is the lightest in colour,
because it is nearest the rock, consequently contains more lime, and
from the water percolating through it freely the iron has been eliminated
or assimilated and taken up by the crops during an untold period of
cultivation or carried off by the water passing through the soil. Under
these conditions the Apple and Pear trees canker the least. This being
30, and if parasites are not the cause of the cankerous affections, why
do the trees canker at all ?

2, At the top of the ragstone range of hills the subsoil is a red clay,
water must pass through it slowly, or not at all, and this will, in a greater
or lesser degree, irrigate the ground lower down, and enrich it with
assimilible iron and other tree food ; the soil is also redder and less rich
than on the lower slopes — this through air and rain not entering it
freely so as to liberate and render its stores of nutrition so quickly
available as where the soil is more open. Thus the trees are placed at
a disadvantage, not only in respect of soil, but of climate, for it must
be colder at the top than at the bottom of the range. Qn this part of
the hills the Apple trees canker the most, and “ hardly any Pears will do
well, the fruit of most varieties cracking so much as to be worthless,
and the trees are unhealthy.” Mr. Kruse, it will be observed, makes a
distinction between the canker of the Apple trees and the cracking of
the fruit and ill-health of the Pear trees, and this shows conclusively
that the diseases are different. That of the Apple trees may or may not
be due to fungi. I have never stated, as “ A. D.” alleges, that the canker-
fungus (Nectria ditissima) was the sole cause of cankerous affections on
Apple or Pear trees. The evil may, and does result from several causes,
and I have said and shown that trees may have many wounds without the
fungus growing in them. But there is no question about the Pear trees ;
they or their fruit are troubled with scab-fungus (Gladosporium or
Pusicladium dendriticum var. pyrinum), which attacks the young wood
and produces the cankerous, scaly condition of the bark, so well seen in
Louise Bonne of Jersey Pear in far too many cases, especially on the
Quince stock, in cold localities and heavy or wet soils. Is not the canker
in the Apple trees and the cracking of the fruit and ill health in the
Pear trees as much, if not more, due to the unfavourableness of the
environment than to the soil ? The latter may be improved by drainage
and cultivation, but who can alter the climate ? Nevertheless, the
climate may be much improved for tree growth by attending to the
sanitation of the soil, or, in other words, the trees so benefited by
drainage and soil improvement as to resist the parasites which await a
favourable opportunity to fasten and prey upon them.

3, Midway between the top and the bottom of the slope of the
ragstone range of hills, “the soil is a rich brown loam in a very good
condition, owing to the abundance of ragstone d4bris, is neither too
heavy nor too light, and is well supplied with the principal elements of
plant food. Experience shows that these are in a sufficiently available
form, for all kinds of vegetables can be grown of splendid condition, and
fruits of high quality are cultivated.” Such is Mr. Kruse’s description
of the soil of the slope on which he operates. In this “ rich brown loam
in a very good condition,” and in a favoured situation of a county
that produces the best using Apples in the world, “some trees of
almost every variety canker. With some varieties there is only
a tree here and there, and other sorts canker so much that it is im¬
possible to grow them except for a few years.” Mr. Kruse’s evidence is
conclusive. It is not a question of soil so much as of environment and
of the “ survival of the fittest,” for “ the higher the ground the more
the Apple trees canker.”

But Mr. Kruse still adheres to the soil theory, and thinks he would
be benefited in his culture by an “ analysis of a good Apple soil in the
Weald of Kent.” I cannot help him in this matter, and think it would
not benefit him much if I could. After a careful study of the soils of
these islands, and guided by nearly half a century’s experience, I am
convinced that cultivators who pay the most attention to the natural
adaptability of crops to the soil and position obtain the best results with
the least expenditure of labour and manures. So with fruit trees. To
secure healthy trees and profitable crops of fruit they must be suited
alike to the soil and the location ; and to avoid disease — canker or any
other — we must select those varieties best able to resist and throw oil
the parasite producing it. This means finding out by experience or
observation the varieties that succeed, and plant those only. This
applies to all parts of the British islands, for there is not a spot in them
up to 500 feet and more above the sea level that is not fitted for the pro¬
duction of some varieties of hardy fruits. With all due deference to
soil theorists and the ransacking of all parts of the world for manures,

I am satisfied that cultivation and selection of kinds and varieties are
far more important.

“A. D.,” page 498, commences by sheltering under Mr. Tonks’
mantle. I was under the impression that my views and those of Mr.
Tonks and other earnest inquirers were identical — namely, that sound
cultivation is the prime agent in securing healthy trees and profitable
crops of fruit. It is as well to be disillusioned in this case. “ A. D.” says,
“ Canker is a product of starvation in respect of the particular variety
affected, or in other words, it is a disease caused by the absence in the
soil of the elements which are essential to the healthy maturation of the
wood.” This is a remarkable statement, and shows that he has nothing
in common with Mr. Tonks, who did not advise different kinds of foods
for various varieties of Apples, but a complete food for all the Apple
family wherever situated, subject to variation according to the require¬
ments of different soils as ascertained by analysis. “ A. D.” does not see
this, but asks, “ How is it that of two varieties of Apples or of Pears
growing close together, . . . under absolutely the same conditions, yet
one is healthy beyond all question, the other cankers badly, and hardly
ever ripens annual growths?” He then answers, “The reason is
obvious. One sort finds all that it needs in the soil, the other does not.”
How does “ A. D.” prove this ? Where is the “ obvious reason ? ” I
see no description of the soil or an analysis, no specifying of the varieties,
and “ A. D.” sees nothing but soil starvation to account for the difference.
What about constitutional hardiness in different varieties t Here is a
chance for “ A. D.” to tell us why the Calville Blanche Apple requires to
be grown under glass in this country, and the Hunthouse thrives at
elevations in North Yorkshire over 500 feet above the sea level. Will
“A. D.” oblige by naming the “predisposing cause,” the reason for the
difference in hardiness between two varieties of Apples, perhaps raised
from two pips taken from the same core of the parent Apple, and why
one has a better constitution than the other. Until an answer is given
to this I must decline to accept “A. D.’s” preconceptions of predisposing
causes ; but at the same time he adduces evidence in support of my
contention that the reason why all Apples and Pears do not suffer
equally from canker is more a question of constitutional hardiness and
adaptability to position than of soil. This is shown in the second para¬
graph of his critique as follows : —

“ Trees growing together side by side for forty years, Kibston,
Alfriston, Wellington [Dumelow’s Seedling], cankering badly ; Waltham
Abbey Seedling, Cockle’s Pippin, and Beauty of Hants doing splendidly.
All on Crab stocks, soil a deep and not very sweet clay. Again, of Pears,
Alexandra Lambre, Thompson’s, Nouveau Poiteau, and Williams’ Bon
Chr&tien do wonderfully well, planted twenty-two years on the Pear
stock. Beurr6 Diel and Beurr(5 d’Amanlis canker very badly, fruit
split and spotted, comparatively worthless; others [what varieties?]
fruit perfect, clean, and delicious.” Then follows the question, “ Why
is the canker?” and “A. D.’s” answer is, “Because of predisposing
causes.” These “are deficiency of tree food, the lack of essentials to
health ; in other words, of the formatien of perfectly sound ripened
wood.”

Now let us recognise established facts. Ribston Pippin has its home
in the rich, deep, porous soil of the great Vale of York, where it has a
different climate to that over a “ deep, and not very sweet clay.” It
cankers to death on hot sands. Alfriston deserves a better fate than a
lingering death on a sour bottom ; so also does Dumelow’s Seedling,
which, however, will not thrive in the warm soil of Sandy in Bedford¬
shire. Waltham Abbey Seedling, Cockle’s Pippin, and Beauty of Hants
do well in all fairly good Apple soils, even as far north as the North
Riding of Yorkshire in lightish soils. The soil theory, therefore, breaks
down along the line, and the selection of varieties suited to different
soils and localities marches on as it has done in all time to victory. As
for the Pears, it is certain that they are similarly influenced by location,
and the hardiness or otherwise of their inherent constitutions. The
Beurre Diel and Beurrfl d’Amanlis Pears had not the fruit cracked by
soil influence, but by scab-fungus, and the susceptibility or otherwise
thereto is more due to climate than to soil. In the north the trees
are healthy and the fruit without speck or blemish, fruits of Beurr^
Diel often weighing 1 lb., and sometimes over 2 lbs. in weight.

Among other things “ A. D.” says, we get rid of the canker by taking
the head of the tree clean off and replacing it by grafting with scions
from a variety that thrives well on the soil. The head is not “ re¬
placed ” but a new one provided of a variety suited to the climate, for
the roots are in the same soil as before. Sir Walter Raleigh said
“ beheading is a cure for all diseases,” and it is often the best for Apple
trees afflicted with canker. But it is not Mr. Tonks’ plan, for he cured
his cankered trees, not one variety in particular, but all, with the same
generous regimen. I have not the least doubt that Mr. Tonks cured
his trees of what he considered to be canker, and I am equally certain that
those trees had not canker-fungus (Nectria ditissima) growing in them,
for the parasite, once seated in a shoot, sooner or later if not destroyed,
compasses its destruction. Lift fruit trees and improve the soil by all
means, apply manures and attend to all the cultural requirements,
but rest assured that none of these will avail against canker or gum caused
by fungi, for the diseased limbs will remain so unless the parasite is
destroyed or removed by incision or amputation.

Trees injured by frost, as described by “A. D.,” clenches my argu¬
ment. They did “ splendidly for many years ” before the frost played
havoc with them. Yes, the spores of the canker-fungus took possession
of the wounds. He will not allege, I hope, that the frost would per¬
manently affect the constituent elements of the soil. What then becomes
of his soil theory ? The soil had clearly nothing to do with the conse¬
quences in that case.

I could say much more in reply to “ A. D,,” but I am encroaching.

July 20, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

51

and mHst refer briefly to Mr. Pendered’s communication, on page 498.
He says, “ I first thought the canker was caused by an insect ” (so
does Mr. Hiam and Mr, Harrison Weir), “ and then by a fungus, but I
came to the conclusion the insects and fungus were due to the disease,
and not the disease to them,” No reasons are given for this conclusion.
This does not alter the facts, “ Canker may differ on various soils and
in different localities.” Just so, it is a question of varieties suited to
different soils and localities — a mere matter of selection. Then follows
a very accurate description of canker in the second paragraph as caused
by fungus, beating my best endeavours, and he goes on to say, “ As a
remedy I cut off all the worst cankered branches, and cleaned the
remainder.” “ The result was a success.” Just so, the fungus was got
rid of to a certain extent, but not entirely, for “ it comes again after
a time.” Had Mr. Pendered cut away all the cankered parts in the
first instance, it is perfectly clear he would not have been troubled
with canker afterwards, unless the fungus had appeared again in fresh
wounds.

Mr. Pendered cures canker in Gooseberry and Currant bushes by
letting it have its run upon them, and when they are no longer profitable
roots them out and plants young trees. There is no canker in Goose¬
berry or Currant bushes caused by fungus. It mainly arises from larval
attacks and damage in other ways, the Nectria found on these bushes
being always on the dead wood or bark, and not in the living tissues.
The canker, so-called, in the Laurel is really gum, due to a fungus
(Coryneum Beijerincki), and is the same as that causing gumming in
Cherry trees. There is no cure but incision or amputation. Old Laurel
bushes cut off to the ground or near, no matter how large and badly
smitten they may be, will push strong healthy shoots from the base and
form fine bushes in less time than the best rooted and most carefully
planted and tended young shrubs. It doss not matter what the soil
may be, provided it is such as Laurels will grow in, nor whether the
locality be high or low, if it is not unfitted for their growth. — G. Abbey,

WASPS AND THEIR DESTRUCTION.

A COEEESPONDENT, “J, R. G.” (page 28), writing on the destruc¬
tion of wasps, pronounces gas tar the “ most efficacious remedy his
gardener has tried.” It is the cheapest and most complete destroyer of
wasps’ nests that I have found, after experience with every method
recommended in the of Horticulture last week. Hundreds of

nests have been “ settled ” by pouring a quantity into the entrances
through the spout of an old watering can. It is the work of half a
minute, and not in a solitary instance has the plan failed, whether a sod
was pressed over the nest entrances or not. It is easy to cover them,
and this is generally done, though scores have been left open for
purposes of experiment, and always with the same result — nest
destroyed. A neighbouring gardener, who has used gas tar for more
than twenty years, never thinks of covering the nest entrance after the
doctoring. In both these cases gas tar is made on the premises, and
therefore costs nothing. — Noeth Lincoln.

Theee are more wasps’ nests this season than I ever remember
seeing or hearing of before. To make matters worse, all are unusually
strong at this early date, and the fruit is being attacked even before it
is ripe. Taking or destroying a few score nests does not seem of much
avail ; at any rate, I see no great falling off in their numbers. Grapes,
ripe and ripening, were soon found out, and before we were able to
apply the right remedy it was scarcely safe to go near some of the
bunches ; and what is the remedy, will be the question to which many
readers will be glad to have a reply. For several seasons past I have tried
Davis’ wasp killer, as a destroyer of wasps and a preventive of their
attacks, with never-failing success, and once more it has done good
service. A few drops of this poisonous syrup applied, with the aid of a
pointed stick, to berries or other fruit that has been started on by wasps
soon attracts the latter, with the result that those eating it are killed,
and the rest are apparently frightened away. I would not be without
so effective a remedy on any account. Gas tar for nests to which it can
be applied, and Davis’ wasp killer for the rest, are my remedies, and
they never fail. — W. Iggxjlden.

Me. E. Beoady on page 14 asks for information from others
respecting the effects of cyanide of potassium on wasps and the larvae in
the nests. I have used it with deadly effect in some cases, and have
known it comparatively harmless in others. There are many things to
take into consideration — weather, state of the ground when used, cracks,
position of nests, and species of wasps. We have three species of ground
wasps — Vespa vulgaris, V. germanica, and V. rufa, and three building
above ground, all having their peculiarities. I have known the three
species of ground wasps’ nests within a yard of each other on a favourite
bank.

Vespa rufa, which never grows into a large colony, so far as I have
seen, usually, if not invariably, builds very near the surface, often so
close that the paper covering may be seen without removing the soil ;
these would be easily destroyed with cyanide of potassium.

V. vulgaris, on the other hand, often traverse long tunnels, even a
yard or two in moles’ runs, and in consequence the cyanide of potassium
would have very little effect on the colony, except the few at the
entrance.

V. germanica, the largest and most destructive species, often have
their nests deeper in the ground, and more frequently than the others

build in open fields, and are consequently more accessible for using
cyanide of potassium.

Wasps are very numerous this season, and the nests unusually strong
in numbers for this time of year. I took a nest in the Easter week. —
J. Hiam,

Roses and the Victoeia Fend.

At the suggestion of the Directors of the Gardening and Forestry
Exhibition a committee of ladies organised a Rose sale at the Earl’s
Court Exhibition on Saturday evening last in aid of the “Victoria”
Fund. A number of stalls were arranged in the centre of the building
around the band of the Hon, Artillery Company, and after eight o’clock
a scene of busy excitement ensued. Although the idea was hastily
developed upwards of £40 was realised. Among those who rendered
valuable assistance were the Misses Milner, Mrs. and the Misses Dodson,
and Mrs. Harry Turner.

Roses and Rosaeians.

I am very much indebted to “A Jubilee Rose Grower” for the
interest he takes in my horticultural welfare. I perceive that the com¬
munication he has addressed to your columns has chiefly been inspired
by my visit to Waltham. It may interest him to learn that I have just
received a gratifying letter from one of the greatest of English rosarians,
in which, with reference to that article, he says — “ I have read with
much pleasure your ‘ Visit to Waltham.’ It is a production of very high
literary merit, an oiisis in the desert of horticultural literature, and
marvellously accurate as to details.” I could quote, if I had occasion to
do so, from another distinguished horticulturist and successful author
to a precisely similar effect, I hope you will permit me to say that my
knowledge of modern Roses, such as Margaret Dickson, Mrs. Paul,
Salamander, White Lady, Gustave Regis, Souvenir de S. A. Prince,
Mrs. John Laing, Crimson Rambler, and Duchess of Fife, has been
derived, not from the catalogue, but from practical experience, for
though not an exhibitor at shows, I may claim to be a successful
cultivator of Roses. In some instances I have written to their raisers
regarding their parentage, which for the sake of perfect accuracy in
description I was entitled to do. In my unconventional estimates of the
value of these I have been independent and entirely conscientious. The
characteristics which I have attributed to such Roses as those of the
late Mr. Bennett, the Messrs. Dickson, Mr. William Paul, Mr. Cant, Mr.
Cranston, and Mr. George Paul, are those with which I have become
familiarised through the medium of careful and assiduous cultivation.
Your correspondent has alluded to the National Rose Society. I have
the greatest respect for that Association, whose President is my intimate
personal friend. I think it would be a gain if anonymous contributions
had a place elsewhere. — David R. Williamson.

Y'oue correspondent, “A Jubilee Rose Grower” (page 28), is, it
seems to me, unduly severe on the articles on Roses written by the Rev.
David Williamson. The latter has at least the courage of his opinions,
as he signs his name to his articles, which your correspondent,
“ A Jubilee Rose Grower,” does not. Moreover, Mr. Williamson’s
writings are enjoyable from the fact that they come fresh from the
observations of a true lover of plants and flowers, who is keenly alive
to all that is beautiful in Nature, if not educated (?) in all the techni¬
calities and rules of the comparatively small number of Rose growers
who are also exhibitors. Mr. Williamson draws direct from the garden
that which too many of our writers on gardening gather from previous
authors, from the frequenters of exhibition tents and committee rooms.
It is amusing to find “A Jubilee Rose Giower,” while questioning Mr.
Williamson’s accuracy, set up the N.R.S.’s new catalogue as an official
guide. No Rose grower of taste, unless an exhibitor, would be influ¬
enced in his selection of Roses for his garden by this “ official guide.”
It leaves out many of the best Roses for garden and house decoration,
and recommends others that no one but an exhibitor would care to grow.
But then it may be said the so-called National Rose Society is only
an exhibitors’ Society.— Audi Alteeam Paetem.

NATIONAL ROSE SOCIETY.

Peovincial Show at Woeksop. — July 1.3th.

Histoey seemed bent on repeating itself in one important and
unpleasant particular in connection with the provincial Show of the
National Rose Society at Worksop, and that was in providing a
thoroughly wet and miserable day. Those who had the misfortune to
taste the pleasures of the Chester Exhibition last year will remember
the great downpour. But the worst did not come to the worst on
Thursday last. After heavy showers in the morning the weather settled
somewhat, and though dull was not so threatening as to prevent people
coming out. The gratifying result was that in the afternoon the Show
was crowded, and as the Exhibition of the Worksop Horticultural
Society (referred to in another page) was held in conjunction with the
Rose display, the visitors had value for their money.

52

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

t July 20, 1893.

The general opinion appeared to be that so far as the open and trade
classes were concei ned it was going to be a case of Harkness first and
the rest nowhere, but in the amateurs’ section there was a feeling of
absolute uncertainty. A few bolder than the rest ventured a hesitating
prediction or two, but they managed to hedge it round with so many
qualifications that they were sure to be right whatever happened. The
result was a complete surprise so far as the Jubilee class was concerned,
an outsider in Mr. Whitton of Bedale coming in well ahead of the usual
leaders, Mr. Lindsell in particular failing to get a prize. Somehow or
other Mr. Pemberton also failed to display his customary interest in the
welfare of the trophy. Another instance of the climatic see-saw, it
will be said. Very likely ; but for all that, ’twas a glorious victory.
That both trade and amateurs’ trophies should go to Bedale is, of
course, a coincidence largely influenced by the season. Messrs. Hark¬
ness were not victorious without a struggle, for in the Jubilee and
several other classes Messrs. Dickson & Son of Newtownards gave them
a hard fight. In the former there was no doubt about the verdict, but
in the class for thirty-six trebles many appeared to think that a mis¬
take had been made, and that the Irish growers ought to have been
placed first. The blooms were pointed up, however, and Messrs.
Harkness & Son’s flowers found by the Judges to be two points ahead ;
too close to be comfortable, no doubt. It was generally agreed that
considering everything the Jubilee flowers made a marvellous display.
The Palace winners had a really magnificent stand. How tenderly Mr.
Harkness nursed it when he found there was no one to oppose him with
seventy-two, and what a number of fine blooms he found he could
dispense with in the latter 1 Mr. Merryweather, Mr. Mount, Messrs,
Mack & Son all showed extremely well, as in the amateurs’ section
did Messrs. Whitton, Hutchinson, Machin, Mawley, Grahame, and
Pemberton.

It can hardly be said that the Show was a completely satisfactory
one — what “ National ” could be without the Cants, Mr. Prince, Mr.
Burnside, Mr. Foster-Melliar, Mr. Berners, or Mr. Hill Gray? to mention
only a few of those whose enforced absence was mourned — but it was a
surprisingly good one considering the season. Let us hope that next
year the crestfallen heroes will not be compelled, nolens volens, to leave
the fray to others, but will once more show themselves worthy of places
amongst the bravest and best. Mr. Mawley, Mr, D’Ombrain, Mr. Machin
and others worked hard to get the Show ready for the Judges in good
time, and were more successful than has sometimes been the case in the
past. All honour to them.

The first of the nurserymen’s classes was that in which the Jubilee
trophy and £2 10s. constituted the first prize for thirty-six blooms. The
Crystal Palace winners, Messrs. Harkness & Sons, were generally expected
to repeat their southern victory, and they did so with a really superb
stand, the flowers being large, richly coloured, perfectly fresh and
clean. The varieties were as follows : — Back row : Mdme. E. Verdier (a
grand flower), Mrs. .lowett (splendidly coloured), Fran9ois Michelon,
Camille Bernardin, S. M. Eodocanachi (very brilliant), Comte Raimbaud,
Ulrich Brunner, Mrs. J. Laing, Earl Dufferin, Duchesse de Morny,
Marie Eady, and Marie Baumann. Middle row : A. K. Williams,
Mar^chal Niel, Alfred Colomb, Madame H. Jamain, Horace Vernet (a
.splendid flower), Pierre Netting, Duchess of Bedford (very fine), Fisher
Holmes, Hon, Edith Gifford, Prince Arthur (a grand flower), Comtesse
de Nadaillac, and Chas. Lefebvre. Front row : Dupuy Jamain
(splendid), Duke of Fife, La France, Reynolds Hole, J. S. Mill, Harrison
Weir, Madame Haussmann, E. Y, Teas, Duke of Wellington, Countess of
Rosebery (a beautiful flower, full of colour), Gustave Piganeau, and
Exposition de Brie, Messrs. A. Dicksons & Sons, Newtownards, had a
very fine stand, and one that deserved a better fate than the second
prize in such a season ; but they were well beaten by the Bedale growers
for all that. They had some splendid flowers, particularly General
Jacqueminot, Mrs. John Laing, Chas. Lefebvre (although a little
tarnished), Camille Bernardin, Catherine Mermet, Countess of Rosebery,
Madame Eugene Verdier, Benoit Comte, President Willermoz, and
Madame Hoste. Messrs. Mack & Son, Catterick, were a most creditable
third, their blooms being smaller than the others, but very fresh and
nlean.

Absence of competition in the seventy-two class enabled Messrs.
Harkness & Sons to concentrate their strength on the Jubilee class, and
if the large stand was made to suffer somewhat in order to reinforce the
•quarter in which danger lay, it was not by any means weak, and com¬
prised some very fine blooms, which, under the circumstances, it may
be well to name, instead of going through the whole stand, and includ¬
ing the mediocrities in so doing. The best flower was a grand Horace
Vernet, which the Bedale growers have shown very finely this year, and
they were fortunate in having a still better one for the forty-eight.
Mrs. John Laing was also beautifully shown, although a little marked
by the weather. The same remarks apply to Fisher Holmes. Dupuy
Jamain was a large and well coloured bloom, and so was Ulrich Brunner,
Comtesse de Ludre was very rich, and Madame C. Crapelet, G6n4ral
Jacqueminot, Prince Arthur, and Gustave Piganeau were also worthy
of commendation, albeit the last named had its outer petals tarnished.
First prize was awarded.

There was a close struggle between Messrs. Harkness and Dickson
with thirty-six trebles, the Bedale growers eventually securing the
award, but not by many points. Both were splendid stands. Messrs.
Dickson had the cleanest flowers and the most variety, but Messrs.
Harkness had the heaviest blooms. The latter were represented by
Gustave Piganeau, Prince Arthur, Alfred Colomb, E. Y. Teas, Etienne
Levet, Fisher Holmes, Comtesse de Serenye, Exposition de Brie, Dupuy

Jamain, Harrison Weir, Rosieriste Jacobs, S. M. Eodocanachi, Horace
Vernet, G6n4ral Jacqueminot, Duchesse de Morny, A. K. Williams,
H. Schultheis, Chas. Darwin, Pierre Netting, Reynolds Hole, La France,
Duke of Connaught, Mrs. Harkness, Chas. Lefebvre, Pride of Waltham,
Marie Baumann, Countess of Rosebery, Louis Van Houtte, Madame
Haussmann, Marchioness of Dufferin, May Quennell, Dr. Sewell, Earl
Dufferin, Marie Verdier, Mrs. John Laing, and Duchess of Bedford.

Mr. H. Merryweather, Southwell, won with thirty-six single trusses,
and he had a very even, well-coloured collection, in which Duke of
Albany, Mrs. J. Laing, Victor Hugo, Camille Bernardin, and Gustave
Piganeau were particularly good. Messrs. Mack & Son were second
with a very fair stand, Mr. Frettingham third, and Mr. Mount was
awarded an extra prize. The best of three good stands of eighteen trebles
came from Messrs. Mack & Son, whose Marie Baumann, Victor Hugo,
Prince Arthur, and General Jacqueminot were very good indeed. Mr.
Merryweather was an excellent second, and Mr. Mount third.

The Jubilee trophy for amateurs brought several splendid stands, and
the class was a noteworthy one considering the season. The premier award
went out of the usual hands, falling to Mr. Whitton of Bedale. He well
merited his victory, his flowers being in perfect condition. The varieties
represented v/ere— back row : Emilie Hausburg, Duchess of Bedford
(a lovely flower), Mdme. Montet, Prince Arthur, Franqois Michelon
(weak), Comte Raimbaud, Marie Verdier, and Dupuy Jamain. Middle
row : Ulrich Brunner, Rubens, A. K. Williams (a grand flower), Catherine
Mermet, Dr. Andry, Inuocente Pirola, E. Y. Teas, and S. M. Eodocanachi.
Front row : Comtesse de Nadaillac, Camille Bernardin, Mrs. Laing,
Alfred Colomb, Madame G. Luizet, Horace Vernet, Etienne Levet, and
Victor Hugo. Mr. W. Hutchinson, Kirby Moorside, was second with a
delightful collection, the only fault of which was that the flowers were
rather light. Mr. H. V, Machin, Gateford Manor, Worksop, was third with
a very good stand. The Palace winner, Mr. Lindsell, was altogether out
of it.

There was also excellent competition with thirty-six single trusses,
the Rev. J. H. Pemberton winning the piece of plate with somewhat
small but clean blooms, the best being Mrs. John Laing, A. K. Williams,
Horace Vernet, Comte Raimbaud, and J. S. Mill. Mr. W. Drew, Led¬
bury, was second with The Bride, Mrs. J. Laing, A. K. Williams, and a
lovely Madame Hoste as his best flowers. Mr. Lindsell was third. Mr.
Machin was the only exhibitor of twelve trebles, and was rightly
awarded the first prize.

Division D was open to growers of less than 2000 plants. There were
two classes, one for eighteen single trusses and one for twelve. Three
competed with eighteen, and the first prize went to Mr. Whitton, the
best blooms in a moderate stand being Prince Arthur, Duchess of
Bedford, A. K. Williams, Catherine Mermet, and Alfred Colomb. Mr.
Hutchinson followed with fair flowers. Duchess of Bedford being one of
the best ; and Mr. W. Boyes, Derby, was third. Mr. E. Mawley, Berk-
hamsted, was first with twelve, his flowers being small but extremely
neat ; Mrs. John Laing and Marquise de Castellane were perhaps the
best. There was no other competitor.

In division E, for growers of less than 1000 plants, there were classes
for twelve and nine. The former found Mr. C. J. Grahame of Croydon
to the fore, his blooms being small, but the majority clean and fresh.
Suzanne Marie Eodocanachi was a good bloom, although a little wanting
in tone. Mr. Mallender, gardener to Miss Mellish, Hodsock Priory,
Worksop, was second. In the other class there was only one stand, that
of the Rev. F. H. Gall, Hitchin, and he was charitably awarded the first
prize. Division F, in which there was a class for six single trusses, did
not fill.

The local division brought out some very fair flowers. It covered a
radius of thirty miles from Worksop Cattle Market, and consequently
admitted Mr. Boyes, who defeated his solitary opponent. Miss Mellish,
by a few points only, his flowers being much undersized. The best
flower in either stand was Miss Mellish’s Madame Eugene Verdier.
Mrs. Jebb, Firbeck Hall, was the only one to stage a twelve stand, and
was given the first prize ; while in that for six Mr. H. Stewart of
Carlton scored a bloodless victory. Competition was better with six
Teas, Miss Jebb winning from three opponents with a very good stand
indeed, her flowers being fresh and perfectly clean. The Hon. Edith
Gifford and Marie Van Houtte were two of the best. Mr. Stewart was
second with fresh flowers, and Miss Mellish third.

The extra classes for amateurs comprised one for six new Roses, one for
six of any H.P. for exhibitors in divisions C and D, a similar one for those
in divisions E, F, and G, and one for eighteen bunches of garden Roses.
In the first the Rev. J. H. Pemberton was the only exhibitor, and was
placed first for Gustave Piganeau, Caroline Testout, Duchess of Fife,
Madame Delville, Marchioness of Dufferin, and Frances Bloxham. In
the second Mr. Lindsell won with a moderate stand of Mrs. J. Laing,
Mr. Whitton being second with Prince Arthur, and Dr. Budd third with
Alfred Colomb. In the third Mr. Grahame won with La France, and
Miss Mellish was second. In the fourth there were three excellent
stands, much the best being that of Mr. Machin, who had Rugosa rubra.
Mignonette, L’Ideale (beautiful), Paquerette, Gloire de Dijon, The Pet,
W. A. Richardson, Damascena, Monthly, Anna Maria de Montravel,
Red Pet, Salet, Eeve d’Or, Gloire des Polyanthes, Rugosa alba, and
Perle d’Or in delightful condition. Mr. Pemberton was an excellent
second, and Miss Mellish third.

Teas and Noisettes were not up to high water mark as a whole, but
many were good. Mr. Merryweather scored in the only open class,
which was for twelve trebles, and with one or two exceptions he had a

July 20, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

63

very good stand, for although the flowers were small they were in
perfect condition. Mr. Mount was an excellent second. Messrs. Dick-
■son & Sons won with eighteen in the trade class for that number,
Messrs. Harkness & Son following. Both had good stands, but the Irish
growers were well in front, their Marie Van Houtte, Madame Hoste,
Madame de Watteville, and Francisca Kruger being beautiful blooms.
Mr. Merryweather was first with twelve, again showing extremely well,
his flowers being exceptionally fresh and clean. Ernest Metz was a
splendid example. A capital box from Mr. Mount secured the second
prize, and the third went to Messrs. D. & W. Croll, Dundee.

In the first division for amateurs, no specified number of plants,
Dr. Budd of Bath won with a very beautiful box, the blooms displaying
no exceptional size, but being extremely fresh and clean. Mr. Machin
was a most creditable second. Dr. Budd was also first with six trebles,
Kaving another charming box, and Mr. Machin was the only other ex¬
hibitor. Mr. Mawley was first in the 500-plant section for nine blooms,
Messrs. Grahame and Pemberton following. Mr. Mawley’s was a box
in his best style. Mr. Whittle of Leicester won with a neat stand in
the 200-plant class for six ; Mr. Whitton second, and Miss Mellish
third. Mr. Machin won with nine of one variety, and Mr. Grahame
with six, Mr. Mawley being second in the latter class, and Mr. Whittle
third.

New Roses were splendidly shown by Messrs. Dickson, who won with
Duke of Fife, Caroline Testout, Jeannie Dickson, Marchioness of London¬
derry, Madame Delville, Salamander, Gustave Piganeau, Margaret
Dickson, Le Flecheur (?), Marchioness of Dufferin, Kaiserin, Augusta
Victoria, and Waban. Mr. Merryweather was second, and Messrs. Paul
and Son third. For twelve of any yellow, Mr. Mount was first with a
fair box of Mar^chal Niel, and Messrs. Croll second with Marie Van
Houtte. Messrs. Dickson won with La France in excellent order in the
light pink class, Messrs. Harkness & Son being second with a bright box
■of Mrs. Laing, and Mr. Mount third with the same variety. Messrs.
Mack & Son had the best twelve crimsons, winning with a splendid box
of Horace Vernet. Messrs. Harkness were second with A. K. Williams,
and Messrs. Dickson & Son third with Alfred Colomb. There appeared
to be only two stands of dark velvety crimsons, and neither was good.
Mr. Frettingham was placed second for Louis Van Houtte, and Mr.
Mount third for Fisher Holmes. Messrs. Paul & Son had a pleasing
stand of singles, and were awarded the first prize.

The premier Tea in the amateurs’ class was a splendid Madame Hoste
in Mr. Drew’s second prize stand of thirty-six, and the premier H.P,,
a grand Mrs. J. Laing, included in Mr. Pemberton’s first prize stand in
the same class. The premier trade H.P. was Messrs. Harkness & Sons’
magnificent Horace Vernet in the Jubilee thirty-six, and the premier
Tea, a splendid Madame Hoste, in Messrs. Dickson’s second prize box.

[As an ardent rosarian and one who has worked so assiduously in
-connection with the provincial show of the National Rose Society, we
have much pleasure in publishing the portrait of Mr. H. V. Machin of
Gateford, Worksop.]

ULVERSTON ROSE SHOW.— June 10th.

The North Lonsdale Rose Society, which is affiliated with the
National Rose Society, held its tenth annual Exhibition on the above
date, and great public interest was manifested in it. Prizes to the value
of £50 were offered, together with four bronze medals of the N.R.S.
and a silver medal for Pansies. The Show was held three weeks earlier
than last year, and would have suited many local amateurs had it taken
place still earlier.

The nurserymen made an extensive display. Mr. B. R. Cant of
•Colchester was absent this year, the now comers being Messrs. R . B. Mack
and Sons, Catterick, Yorkshire, and Mr. W. Frettingham, Beeston, Notts.
They were not equal to the Irish representatives, Messrs. Alex. Dickson
and Sons, the Royal Nurseries, Newtonards, who carried off all the first
prizes in all the nine classes. Their exhibits were greatly admired,
especially the new seedling Marchioness of Downshire, which was
awarded the gold medal at the Crystal Palace. Messrs. Harkness,
Bedale, took two second and a third prize ; Messrs. R. B. Mack & Sons
four seconds, also the prize for the best Rose in the Show with Horace
Vernet.

In the amateurs’ section J. H. Midgley Esq., J.P., Grange-over-Sands,
took the leading prizes and gained the bronze medals for the best light
H.P. bloom with Merveille de Lyon, and Souvenir d’EIise Vardon for the
best Tea or Noisette. Mr. Midgley, however, withdrew his claim to the
latter in favour of H. V. Machin, Esq., Vice-President of the N.R.S. ,
another successful exhibitor. Mrs. Wm. Boulton, Ulverston, won
the bronze medal in the dark H.P. class with Ulrich Brunner. The
other classes were all well filled, and the Pansies were charming. The
nurserymen judged the amateur section, and vice versa. Altogether it
was a grand show considering the season. — R. P. R.

[The “Herefordshire Incumbent” writes: — “In your otherwise
wonderfully correct report of our Hereford Rose Show, considering my
corrections and loose writing, I see the word ‘ would ’ is put for ‘ word,’
in connection with Mr. Cant’s name, and the word ‘ Noisettes ’ before
the name of Caroline Kuster in the seventy-two list is obviously out of
place. The reading should have been, ‘ Caroline Kuster (Noisette),’ the
H.P.’s then following in sequence.” Mr. A. Whitton of Bedale
also writes : — “ In your report of Hereford Rose Show (page 38), the
stand credited to Mr. Drew contained the twenty-four Roses with which
I won first prize, also the medal for the best H.P., Pierre Netting. I
was also winner of the twelve trebles and six Teas.”]

A DESTRUCTIVE HAILSTORM.

The hailstorm mentioned in the Journal of July 13th (page 33)
was only felt in a slight degree in this neighbourhood (Kirkbean), but
from the local newspapers of July 12th it appears to have increased
in severity in its progress in a northerly direction, and to have at¬
tained its greatest force in the parish of Kirkmahoe, a few miles north
of Dumfries and near Amisfield. In the town of Dumfries a great
deal of damage was done to glass, and, as was to be expected, nurseries
and private gardens have suffered considerably. Mr. Jas. Service,
Maxwelltown, had over 360 sheets of glass broken, Messrs. T. Kennedy
and Co. over 150, and Messrs. Fotheringham & Co. a considerable
number. Private establishments, such as that of ex-provost Lennox at
Edenbank, where there were nearly 100 sheets broken, also received
much damage in this way. The damage to fruit, flowers, and vegetables
has also been very serious, as may be seen by this quotation from a local
newspaper : — “ Fruit trees were stripped to a large extent, and still
greater loss was inflicted by the ice cutting holes in the Apples, Pears,
and Plums which remained on the branches. They are thus practically
destroyed, as they will rot on the tree. Vegetables were riddled as if
with shot, and flowers in large numbers were broken and ruined for the
season.”

Great destruction has also been caused to farm crops, and young
ducks and pheasants were killed by the hailstones. The account given

FIG. 9.— MR. H. V. MACHIN.

of the damage done at Carfield in Kirkmahoe, the residence of Dr.
Williamson, is very dismal reading, but the following extracts will give
an idea of the severity of the storm : — “ One hundred and ten large
squares of glass in the conservatories were broken. Some of these were
one-eighth of an inch rough plate, and were further protected by a
canvas blind.” “ The fruit crop is literally and entirely destroyed.
Scarcely a single Apple, Pear, Green Gage, or Plum can be found, of
those still on the trees, which is not chipped beyond hope of ripening.
Leaves of Cabbage, greens, and Cauliflower are reduced to shreds ; thick
stalks of Rhubarb are split and twisted ; Vegetable Marrows are com¬
pletely wasted ; whole rows of Peas and Beans are levelled, and the pods
cut with hailstones.” In the same parish one hailstone of circular
shape, and not of exceptional size, is said to have measured 2 inches and
a tenth in diameter. Such storms are of rare occurrence in this usually
temperate district, and it is well that the area of its force was com¬
paratively limited, — S. Abnott.

CARNATIONS AT PUTNEY HILL.

Amongst the best border Carnations I have seen this season are
those at Red Brae, Putney Hill, S.W., the residence of Dr. W. S. Wyman.
The plants, which are growing on a border facing due south, have made
splendid growth, and an abundance of healthy layers with a profusion
of flowers are the rewards they give for the generous treatment and
concentrated attention they must have received both from the Doctor
and his able gardener, Mr. Wheeler. The plants had not been disbudded
to the extent to which the practice is carried by some growers, two
objects being kept in view — good quality of blooms combined with large
numbers. The flowers were of excellent form and substance, and this
despite the fact that all the crown blooms and those immediately
beneath them had been gathered. I was agreeably surprised to find
such grand plants after the many small weakly ones which are so
plentiful this season.

I will name a few of the hest of those which were in bloom at my
recent visit. First must be mentioned the well known Picotee Red
Brae. This is a beautiful flower of fine shape ; the petals are broad, and

51

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 20, 1893.

the calyx very rarely splits, a point of the utmost importance in a
garden such as this, where ringing is not practised. The ground colour
is pure white and the edge a clear rosy purple, forming a charming
combination. One of the best of the scarlets is unquestionably Lord
Byron, the blooms of which are of exceptional size and of a rich striking
colour. The shape, too, is everything one could desire. James Gragg is
a very beautiful fancy variety, having broad shapely petals, the colour
of which is a dull white profusely spotted and flaked dark crimson.
Constance is one of the best whites in the whole collection, the sub¬
stantial blooms being of the purest white. Baby Castle is a magnificent
flower with, so far as I can see, only one fault — it is inclined to
burst its calyx, a serious drawback to such a bloom . The colour is a
lively rose pink, and the flowers are very much fringed. The fine Rose
Celestial is here in grand condition, blooming profusely and making
strong healthy looking growth. Germania, perhaps the best of the
yellows, is doing its grower every credit, as also is the popular Mary
Morris. Ossian is a fine white flower, having fringed petals of much
breadth and substance. Napoleon III. is an excellent variety, with
brilliant scarlet flowers borne in the utmost profusion ; not quite so
bright in colour as the foregoing, but still bright, and of equal substance
is The Coroner. Amongst other varieties noticed in the collection were
Mrs. Reynolds Hole, Lord H. Pomeroy, Mrs. Fawcett, Mrs. Tegner, Alice
Ayres, and three grand rows of the Old Crimson Clove, without which,
no matter how choice the varieties, no collection could be termed
complete.

Another excellent feature of this suburban garden is a charming
little rockery, upon which nothing was more showy at the time of my
visit than the Iceland Poppies. Some good Thymes were unfortunately
just passed their best, as I should much have liked to have seen them ;
perhaps on the occasion of a future visit I shall be more fortunate, —
H. J.'W.

Events of the Week. — As notified in another paragraph the
Committees of the Royal Horticultural Society will meet at the Drill
Hall, James Street, S.W., on Tuesday, July 25th. A special show of
Carnations, Picotees, and other flowers will be held at the Gardening
and Forestry Exhibition, Earl’s Court, on July 26th and 27th, The
Midland Carnation and Picotee Society will hold an exhibition in the
Botanical Gardens, Edgbaston, on Saturday, July 22nd, instead of
August 5th, as stated in the schedule.

- The Weather in London. — The current week opened wet,

rain falling heavily on Sunday morning. In the evening it cleared,
and, with the exception of a slight shower, Monday proved fine but
rather windy, as also did Tuesday. On Wednesday morning it was
raining, and at the time of going to press it is dull and cloudy.

- Royal Horticultural Society. — The next meeting of the

Royal Horticultural Society will take place on Tuesday, July 25th, at
the Drill Hall, James Street, Victoria Street, Westminster. The Fruit,
Floral, and Orchid Committees will assemble at twelve o’clock, as usual,
and at 3 P.M. a paper on “ Alpine Houses and Plants” will be read by
Mr. H. Selfe Leonard.

- The Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Institution. — We

are informed that at the recent Bath Rose Show a large tent was set
apart by the Management Committee for the use of members and
friends of the above Institution, who were invited at five o’clock to
hear an address from Mr. H. J. Veitch. R. B. Cater, Esq,, presided,
being supported by Mr. Ingram (Secretary of the Gardeners’ Royal
Benevolent Institution), Mr. William A. Garaway, Mr. B. R. F. Pearson,
Mr. W. W. Jeffrey, and others. Mr. Veitch made a forcible appeal in
support of the funds of this excellent Institution.

- Hedges for Shady Places.— It is often desirable to have

hedges along lines where large trees are already growing. Among the
best shrubs for this purpose, says “ Meehan’s Monthly,” are the various
varieties of Privet. They stand dry ground better than almost any¬
thing else. It is not so much the shade which injures the hedges in
these situations as it is the drying of the ground by the roots of the
trees. When we imagine the enormous amount of moisture tran¬
spiring from thousands of leaves of trees, we can readily see how dry the
ground must be which has to supply this moisture. But those who
have practical experience understand this without even a thought of
the philosophy involved.

- The Rev. H, H. D’Ombrain. — We desire to record our deep

sympathy — which* will be shared by a host of friends — with Mr.
D’Ombrain on the great loss he has sustained by the death of his beloved
elder daughter. We know that her life was a noble and brave one, for
it was consecrated to the good of those who needed succour — sufferers
in institutions of which she was the devoted head. Mr. D’Ombrain’s
absence from many Rose shows, as well as from our columns of late,
under the familiar nom de of “ D,, Deal," has been imposed by

the illness of his daughter, which, to his great sorrow, terminated
fatally. We shall hope to soon have something from his pen again.

- National Carnation Show'. — Mr, ' M. Rowan writes : —

In your enumeration (page 36) of the blooms shown in my stand at
Chiswick, Alfred “ S.B.” is set down for “ 2.” There were three scarlet
bizarres shown — viz., Robert Houlgrave, Alired, and Fred, and in
appending the names to the flowers at the last moment I, in my hurry,
wrote for the third one Alfred instead of Fred. The error was obvious
enough, and the bloom was correctly named when shown in my twenty-
four the next day at Earl’s Court.

- Early Rivers Nectarine.— During a hurried visit to Saw-

bridge worth a few days since, I noticed a fine crop of this new Nectarine
just ripe on trees in pots. These were much in advance of Lord Napier
grown in the same house, and better coloured. I counted twenty-six
fruit on a tree in an 11-inch pot, all of which were fit for exhibition,
which shows that it is a good cropper, and I consider it likely to become
as great a favourite eventually as any of the varieties now before the
public. — W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall Gardens, Stamford,

- Show at the Agricultural Hall,— As we have before

announced, the Royal Horticultural Society will hold, from August 29th
to September Ist, 1893, at the Royal Agricultural Hall, London, what
the officials expect will prove to be “ the grandest show of fruit, flowers,
and vegetables ever held in this country.” The amount of money offered
in prizes exceeds £400, and this, it is considered, will attract nursery¬
men, gardeners, and lovers of fruit and flowers. Special awards are
offered for heating apparatus, greenhouses, appliances, and other
sundries, and in this division space is already being largely taken up.
This section is under the direction of the managers of the Royal
, Agricultural Hall Company. Those desiring to secure space should
make immediate written application for the same.

- Exeter Gardeners’ Society’s Annual Outing. — The

members of the Exeter Gardeners’ Society held their annual outing
on Wednesday, July 12th, combining, as usual, instruction with pleasure.
The trip was to Sidmouth, making stoppages on the way at Streatham
Hall, Exeter, Killerton Park, and Escott. At Streatham Hall the party
was met by Mr. Franklin, head gardener to Mrs, R. B. West, who
conducted them through. At Killerton the members were met by
Mr. Garland, and under his guidance spent two hours in strolling through
Sir Thomas Acland’s grand old park. The pleasure grounds are very
extensive and the walks charmingly arranged. The trees and shrubs
are some of the finest in the West of England. At Escot, Sir John
Kennaway accorded all a hearty welcome, inviting them to wander at will
over the grounds and see all there was to be seen. Accompanied by Mr.
Underdown, the head gardener, a hurried inspection was made of the
gardens, the wilderness, and other parts of the park. Sidmouth was not
reached until nearly half-past five, and an adjournment was made for
dinner, after which the party returned to Exeter.

- Fruit Culture at Wightwick Manor, Wolver¬
hampton. — A Wolverhampton correspondent, Mr. T. B. Dobbs,
writes : — “ Mr. G. A. Bishop has proved the great advantage of a
knowledge in chemistry applied to fruit culture, and the efficacy of
well selected manures, by the production of three successive crops of
fruit in pots, including Cherries, Plums, and Pears. There are several
dozen trees in a line down the centre of an orchard house, every branch,
from base to apex, being heavily laden with fruit according to the samples
forwarded. These trees are only grown temporarily till the permanent
Peach trees in the back and Nectarine trees in the front are sufficiently
established, and will be removed this year. To get a combination of
Peaches, Plums, and an equally heavy crop of Cherries of all the best
dessert varieties in the same house shows one of the highest forms of the
cultivation of fruit, bearing in mind that the Peach and Nectarine trees
are heavily cropped with fine fruit for the second time.” [The samples
of Plums are splendid — large clusters of Iruit of the first size, and the
foliage of the best possible description, the whole undoubtedly repre¬
senting high-class culture.]

July 20, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

55

- Gardening Appointments. — Mr. W. C. Davis, for upwards

of four years Mr. Clayton’s foreman at Grimston Park, Tadcaster, has
been appointed head gardener to Sir Andrew Fairbairn, Bart., Askham
Hall, York. Mr. Richard Moore, the Gardens, Llanwern Park, has been
engaged by Wm. Henderson, Esq., as gardener, at Berkley House, Frome,
Somerset.

- - COLEOS Distinction.— Two beds of this distinct Coleus are

Mow to be seen in grand condition at Messrs. Veitch’s, Chelsea Nursery.
The rich, dark, substantial foliage produces a very striking effect, it
being next to impossible to walk through the nursery without giving it
more than a passing glance. — H; W.

- Propagating the Wistaria. — It is not generally known,

remarks an American contemporary, that the Wistaria grows from root
cuttings. Layering, however, is a very good method where there is room
for it. The trailing shoots root by being buried in the ground a little,
but better if a slit is first made in the shoot.

- Wakefield Paxton Society. — At the meeting of the above

Society on Saturday evening Mr. W. E. Corden, who is well known as
an amateur hybridiser, read a practical and interesting paper ©n “ The
Pelargonium.” There was a collection of fine plants and cut blooms,
and these were sold on behalf of the Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund.

- The Weather in Scotland. — At a meeting of the Edin¬
burgh Botanic Society on July 13th, the Curator (Mr. R. Lindsay)
observed that the past month was remarkable for the excessive heat
and dryness which prevailed. The continued want of rain having
lasted throughout nearly the whole ot spring the marvel was that its
effects had not been more serious on vegetation. A heavy fall of rain
took place on the 23rd of the month, after which all danger from
drought was at an end. The lowest reading of the thermometer during
June was 40°, which was registered on the 2nd. On the night of the
16th the thermometer did not fall below 62° ; the lowest day tempera¬
ture was 50° on the 23rd, and the highest (89°) on the 18th of the
month. Hardy herbaceous plants flowered freely, but went quickly
past owing to the drought. The early flowering kinds had ripened from
seeds abundantly. On the rock garden fewer plants came into flower
last month than for any June during the last eleven years, the largest
number having blossomed this year in May. In all 294 species and
varieties came into flower last month.

- Japanese Gardening. — In a highly tasteful number of

“ The Studio ” for July appears an interesting article upon the gardens
of Japan by Mr. Charles Holme. The writer seeks to impress his readers
with the fact of the intense admiration for Nature possessed by the
Japanese. Their gardening is intensely artificial in the sense that they
try laboriously to reproduce in miniature real, and in many cases ideal
landscapes, differing in this respect from the Chinese, who stock their
gardens with vegetation distorted into the shape of junks, pagodas, and
other bizarre objects. He says, “ Foreign plants, with the exception,
perhaps, of a few characteristic ones from China, are not favoured by the
Japanese ; for they do not look upon their gardens as places to collect
and display a variety of botanical specimens as in a nursery or arbo¬
retum ; their idea is that the garden shall appear as a picture, complete
in itself, each thing being in harmony with the rest, and forming, as it
were, a part of a whole. The gardener in Japan is a sort of landscape
painter, w'ho uses actual trees, rocks, and water, instead of canvas,
paints, and brushes. The picture he may form may be in imitation of
some natural, well-known scene in his own country, or in China ; just
as though, if an Englishman, he might strive to reproduce the beauties
of the Strid in Bolton Woods, or the Fairy Glen at Bettws-y-Coed. But
often he takes for himself a theme of an abstract nature and endeavours
in his arrangements to express a sentiment, as of ‘ retirement,’ ‘ medi¬
tation,’ ‘long life,’ or ‘fidelity.’ In the majority of cases simplicity
is aimed at rather than redundancy, as lavish display and vulgarity are
synonymous in the Japanese mind.” The perfect Japanese garden
would seem to be one in which there is a waterfall, hills and glens, lakes
and islands ; stone lanterns incrusted with lichen, moss and leaves, shaped
like a hat, a milestone, or a temple, and containing small oil lamps ; a
stone washing basin ; bridges ; curiously winding pathways of stepping-
stones, and summer-houses. In the absence of sufficient space, this multum
in parvo style will, one must suppose, somewhat resemble that of the
Chelsea pensioner or the Broxbourne amateur. “ The Studio ” is a
truly high art magazine, but we trust that it is not trying to imbue
our aestheticised E nglish women with a craze for J apanese gardening, other¬
wise unfortunate husbands who cannot extend their limbs in the
drawing-room on account of the knick-knacks, gew-gaws, and bric-a-
brac, will soon find such relief equally impossible out of doors.

- We are informed that Mr. M. Cdthbertson of the Public

Park Nursery, Rothesay, was awarded a silver medal for 125 bunches
of hardy flowers at the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society. Also at
Paisley, two days after, Mr. Cuthbertson had the same honour conferred
for a similar exhibit.

- Fuchsias and Begonias. — One of the most attractive houses

at Messrs. Veitch’s at the present time is that containing some excellent
Begonias, Zonal and Ivy-leaf Pelargoniums, and Carnations on the
stages, with Fuchsias of various types trained up the roof. On entering
the house one is met with a truly gorgeous display of colours which
cannot fail to attract attention and admiration from all who see it
— H. W.

- The Weather in June. — June was a dry month, but not so

bad as the preceding, as we had three good showers. The wind was in a
northerly direction twenty-one days. We had sixteen bright days,
three of which were clear. Barometer varied considerably. Highest
reading 30’44, at 9 A.M. on 18th ; lowest 29’35, at 9 A.M. on 23rd. Total
rainfall 1 inch, which fell on nine days, the greatest daily fall being
0‘31, on 22nd. Highest shade temperature 87°, on the 19th ; lowest
36°, on 1st ; lowest on grass 26°, on the 11th. Mean daily maximum,
7D90° ; mean daily minimum, 48‘43°. Mean temperature of the month,
60' 13°. The garden spring ran 20 gallons per minute on the 30th. —
W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall Gardens, Stamford.

- The annual banquet of the Worshipful Company of

Gardeners was held at the Hotel M4tropole on the evening of the
12th inst. The Master, the Rev. W. Wilks, assisted by the Upper
Warden, Mr. Beaumont Shepheard, received the guests, who numbered
about eighty, half of whom were ladies. After the usual loyal toasts
had been given by the Master, Sir Trevor Lawrence proposed that of
“ The Ladies ” in glowing language. He commented on the pleasing
innovation betokened by their presence, and hinted that considering
man owed to woman his exclusion from the finest garden ever known —
to wit, the Garden of Eden — man was very forgiving. Colonel Dampier
Palmer, M.P., responded, and incidentally remarked that it was usual to
select a bachelor in preference to a married man for this purpose, because
on the principle followed in the House of Commons, he spoke from
imagination rather than from knowledge. Consequently the Master
could have discharged the function better than himself. Mr. Harrison
Weir then proposed the toast of the evening, “ The Worshipful Company
of Gardeners.” He dwelt, among much else, on the pleasure received
in perusing the old authorities on English horticulture, on the con¬
nection between the plant world and decorative art, on flowers as a
medium for expressing amatory sentiment, and the modern craving after
excitement as shown in the cultivation of the unrestful Orchid. The
Master, the Rev. W. Wilks, whose name was coupled with the toast,
replied stating that the Company dated its origin from the reign of
James I., that it was doing good work in the promotion of horticultural
education, and viewed gratefully the generous donation of scholarships
for this purpose by Sir Trevor Lawrence and Baron Schroder. Other
coasts were honoured, and the proceedings of the evening agreeably
diversified by both instrumental and vocal music.

EEVIEWS OF BOOKS.

The Garden's Story. By George H. Ellwanger, London ; William

Heinemann.

From Mr. Heinemann there has come to hand an English edition of
this very agreeable book. It is somewhat in the nature of an edition de
luxe, prettily bound in light green, and well suited for display within
the boudoir or the drawing-room. Not the least interesting portion of
the volume is the introduction by the Rev. C. Wolley Dod, a careful perusal
of which is indispensable to the understanding of the following pages.
Indeed so interesting is it that we venture to reproduce a considerable
part of it here, feeling quite sure that the terse and picturesque summary
of the contrasts between the Old England and the New will excite a
relish for the body of the work.

The scene of the book is the neighbourhood of Rochester, in the State
of New York. It is situated on the southern shore of Lake Ontario, about
sixty miles due east from the Falls of Niagara, and separated by less than
that distance from the Dominion of Canada across the lake ; a line of
150 miles may be drawn to Toronto. Canadian territory extends some
hundred miles to the south of the latitude of Rochester, so that what wo
read in this story may be applied to a considerable part of British America.
Our friends in that region have to deal with hardy plants under different
conditions from those which prevail in our insular climate. Theirs is always
a real winter, and the ground is not fully thawed until our spring flowers
have been flowering in driblets for about two months. Hence it happens
that spring flowers across the Atlantic come in a heap, and though there
may be for a day or two a relapse into winter the early flowers there have a

66

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[July 20, 1893.

wonderful power of resisting frost : indeed, we may sometimes see in our
own flower beds Trillium?, Tiarellas, Uvularias holding up their heads with¬
out flinching on the coldest day that the end of a British April can bring,
when every Daffodil is doing obeisance with its face on the ground. So the
gay burst of spring, which is too often a mere poetical fiction with u«, is a
reality in North America, though it may come late. The hot summer which
soon follows brings many things which remind us of descriptions of tropical
countries. Humming birds hover about the flowers in the sun, the Honey¬
suckles at dusk are crowded with the great Sphinx Carolina, and fire flies
blaze all night. The great heat favours the maturation of some plants,
which rarely complete their cycle of growth out of doors in our short and
doubtlul summer, though from the same cause drought is more destructive
there to the beauty of the garden. The Alpine plants, natives of high
elevations in mountains of Europe and Asia, though the long and regular
winter would favour their cultivation in the lowlands near Rochester, seem
for the most part incapable of enduring that dry heat.

The colloquial names of flowe s, many of them perhaps new to the
reader, with which the story abounds, need not be explained here, because
they are accompanied at least once in the book by the botanical Latin name,
and a very complete Index enables us to refer with ease to the page where
the name occurs. Hence such names as Partridge Vine — it may be noticed
by the way that nearly all trailing plants are called Vines in America —
Spring Beauty, Butterfly Weed, call for no comment. But the popular
names of birds introduced without the addition of their scientific synonyms
may puzzle those who know nothing of American ornithology, and who
may like to learn what are the familiar feathered friends or enemies of the
gardener on the shores of Lake Ontario. One bird seems to be the same
everyw’here in its wicked propensities, the cosmopolitan “English” sparrow
(why “English,” more than Russian, or French, or Turk, or Prussian?);
but our friends insisted on having it sent over to them in spite of our warn¬
ing, and though they repent of their bad bargain, and call the bird a little
wretch —

“ 0 factum male ! 0 miselle passer !”

they must keep it now, and we heartily wish they would take the rest too.
Many other birds are introduced, such as wrens, nuthatches, swallows, and
martins, crows, orioles, and plovers, which though distinct in detail from
their Old World representatives, are sufficiently near to make the allusions
to them consistent with our experience ; but in one or two cases it is not so ;
for instance, the first English settlers gave the name of Robin to a migra¬
tory kind of thrush (Turdus migratorius) with a red breast, a songster, but
not a winter resident near Rochester, and therefore hardly suggestive, except
in name, of the half domesticated little frequenter of our sheds and window
ledges which sings to us all winter, and seems rarely to venture beyond the
limits of its native shrubbery. Another ambiguous name is Blackbird, given
in the North-Eastern States to the red-winged starling (Agelteus phoenicens),
a gregarious and migratory bird, very destructive to grain crops, and breed¬
ing amongst the reed of marshes, having but little in common with our
“ ouzel cock,” BO black of hue, which warbles, eats, and dwells in our ever¬
greens and orchards.

About other birds introduced, it may be acceptable information to some
who do not know it already, that the chickadee is a titmouse, the bobolink or
rice bird a migratory large bunting with a plumage of black, white, and
yellow. The hair-bird is the hairy woodpecker, which, like our native green
woodpecker or “ rain-bird,” is noisy before rain. The pee-wees (or peewits)
are flycatchers, and the cat-bird — so called from the likeness of its note to
the mewing of a kitten — is a dark-colouied thrush. The grackle or crow-
blackbird is an omnivorous and gregarious noisy depredator, something
between a jackdaw and a starling. Such names as blue-bird— a bird about
the size of our robin — and yellow-bird, a kind of goldfinch, while suggestive
of tropical feathering, sufficiently explain themselves. To compare the
garden birds of two countries, one ought to have refided in both ; but, after
consulting those who know, I conclude that in the matter of song the
balance is in favour of the old country, while the Northern States of the
New World have more gay plumage to admire in spring and summer.

The main portion of the book consists of fifteen chapters, each bearing
a poetical or seasonable title, and couched in the form of a running
monologue or soliloquy upon the panorama of natural incidents unfolded
during one year. Early spring is dealt with under the title of “ The
Garden in Anticipation.” We are introduced to later spring in the
chapter entitled “ When Daffodils Begin to Peer,” while such headings
as “ Warm-Weather Wisdom,” “Midsummer Flowers and Midsummer
Voices,” “Flowers and Fruits of Autumn,” and “ The Last Monk’s-
hood Spire,” suggest the inevitable progression of the seasons. It is
from every point of view a most refined and desirable publication — a
worthy successor to the works of White and Jeffries — and eminently
suitable as a gift-book between naturalists and lovers of horticulture.

British Fungus Flora. By Geoege Masses. London : George Bell

and Sons.

We have to acknowledge the receipt of the above text book. The
work is in two volumes, and is a model of excellence in respect of the
clearness of its type and solidity of its binding. In a short preface
Mr. Massee indicates to us the vast strides which have been made in the
diagnosis and differentiation of fungus species during the last twenty
years, these having almost doubled so as now to number nearly 5000.
In the present work, however, Mr. Massee confines himself chiefly to the
description of the Basidiomycetes and the Ascomycetes, leaving the
Moulds and Mildews for those who choose to make a closer examination
of the subject in his other work entitled “ The Evolution of Plant Life :
Lower Forms,” The meaning of this is that the fungi dealt with and
depicted in the pages of the book which we are noticing are those having
a visible stem, or at least a visible pilous, such as we are accustomed to
see in the common Mushroom, and many of which strike the eye of even
ordinary observers as they adhere to the branches, trunk, collar, or the

roots of trees, or to posts or fences, or as they appear upon dunghills,
rubbish heaps, and about swamps and plantations.

To the universalist, the revelation of the enormous vista to be opened
up by mycological investigation is somewhat staggering, and must excite
something like a feeling of despair at the brevity of life. If art was
long and life was short in the days of Horace, what will be the relative
importance of a life even like that of the late M. Chevreuil, in the face
of the ultimate revelations of telescopy and microscopy ? Perfect
happiness will then only be enjoyed by tbe absorbed specialist, and men
of science will spend a lifetime in the contemplation of a spot in the
heavens invisible to the naked eye, or of the mould which gathers upon
a particular kind of strawberry jam. One thing is certain, however,,
that the pleasure of a subject increases proportionately to the mental
concentration with which it is pursued, and the consideration of fungi
during a perusal of Mr. Massee’s book is pleasant even to a mind hitherto
occupied with the more visible and striking beauties of phanerogamous
plants. One fact impresses the reader, and that is the interdependence
of organic life and the further revelations foreshadowed by science
of the sequences which prevail upon our planet. It is in the highest
degree interesting to read of the affinity certain parasitic fungi show for
particular trees and particular situations, and induces the mind to expect
and hope for an ultimate solution of the puzzle of creation. Whether
this ever arrives or not, such investigation is at least a more profitable
mental manifestation than the old-fashioned way of regarding each dis¬
jointed fact as an accident or a miracle. It is permissible even to look
forward to a time when the unravelling of scientific problems may
become of as absorbing interest to young persons of the future as
charades and guessing contests are to those of the present day. “The
British Fungus Flora ” is the result of an exhaustive comparison of the
best known authorities upon the subject, and it may be confidently
recommended as a work of study and reference to those interested in
mycology.

A NEW LILIUM.

At the Exhibition held in the Gardens of the Royal Horticultural
Society at Chiswick on July 11th, considerable attention was centred
on a new Lilium exhibited by Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic
Nursery, Chelsea, and Messrs. Wallace & Co., Colchester. The first
mentioned firm exhibited it under the name of L. Ukeyuri, and the
latter showed it provisionally as L. Alexandras. A first-class certificate
was awarded in each case ; but in the latter instance subject to the
Lilium being correctly named by Mr. Baker of Kew, who, so far as we
can at present ascertain, considers it, on a cursory examination, to be
a garden hybrid. Messrs. Veitch, on the other hand, as already hinted,
exhibited it as a species from Japan, and according to the rules of the
Royal Horticultural Society, which give precedence to those who enter
an analogous exhibit first, we illustrate it (fig. 10) as L. Ukeyuri.

From a decorative point of view it is a grand Lilium, and one that
will doubtless become as popular as L. auratum. It is a dwarf grower,
being less than 18 inches in height, and some of the plants exhibited
bore three flowers. The blooms, as will be seen by referring to the
illustration, are very large, pure white, and of great substance. It is
unquestionably one of the finest and most beautiful Liliums yet
introduced.

GRIMSTON PARK, TADCASTER.

In many respects Grimston Park may claim a high place amongst
the stateliest of the “ homes of England.” A noble mansion is asso¬
ciated with splendid grounds and a magnificently timbered park. The
flower garden merges almost imperceptibly into the woodland, sharing
in some measure its cool, reposeful aspect. If the Italian style, so con¬
spicuous in the house and its immediate surroundings, should fail to
prove satisfying — and consider it artificial, there is ample compensation
in the bright pictures, painted by Nature’s own prodigal hand, which
abound in the immediate vicinity. The mansion was not built for
Mr. John Fielden, who died recently, but for Lord Howden, and the
architect was Decimus Burton, while the garden and grounds were laid
out by Nesfield. How the work of the twin artists compares it would
require the architectural knowledge, the deep artistic sympathy, and
the literary skill of a Hardy to explain. But if the higher plane to
which the accomplished author of “ A Laodicean ” would raise such a
description is denied to a gardening writer he can at least make some
acknowledgment of the many good features of Nesfield’s work. The
formalities peculiar to the Italian style of the flower garden melt away
along the winding walks which lead to the wilder portions of the grounds,
and in the broad belts of Conifers and forest trees, the shrub-covered
banks, the cool recesses, the Fern-clothed undergrowth, and the pro¬
fusion of wild and naturalised flowers, there is a store of interest
and pleasure which grows the more closely it is examined.

In the garden proper statuary and flowers dispute attention. The
beds are numerous and attractively filled, and at the right of the house
is a beautifully furnished Rose garden. The latter is backed by a belt
of Oaks, Sycamores, Copper Beeches, and other trees. The last-named
are magnificent specimens, and in the evening glow their leaves are
tinged with Coleus-like hues unique and pleasing to the eye. Valuable

July 20, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF Horticulture and cottage gardener.

67

marbles gleam amoogst stately Conifers. The boar in the Borghese
garden at Bologna is represented by a stone of great value, and from it
the eye wanders to one of the finest specimens of Thujopsis dolabrata
north of the Trent, 20 feet high or more, and admirably proportioned.
Or, again, an almost priceless Figure of Europa divides attention with
a noble Lawson’s Cypress 40 feet high and a grand tree of Thujopsis

grounds disclose many objects of interest when pursued. Thousands
of Narcissi are established in the grass, and in the spring they add
their own peculiar charm. Huge bushes of the Mock Orange diffuse
their powerful fragrance. One of Philadelphus grandiflorus 15 feet
high and 10 feet through was a wonderful sight, being completely
wreathed in flowers. A picturesque effect is added by the lofty Scotch

Fig. 10.— L1L1U.\1 UKEYURI,

borealis with an altitude of about 30 feet. There is no limestone in this
portion of the grounds, and Rhododendrons as well as Conifers thrive
well. Laurels are as luxuriant as at Swanmore, and there must be two
or three acres of them in different parts of the estate ; rotundifolia and
caucasica do best.

The winding walks which lead to the undressed portion of the

Firs, with their heavy mantles of Ivy, supplemented in some instances
by clustering masses of wild Roses, the pink blossoms of which break
from the cool Ivy slopes in myriads. One of the most beautiful spots in
the grounds, or, indeed, in any garden in the country, is the Emperor’s
walk, so called from the lines of busts of some of the most famous and
infamous of the old Roman and other potentates on each side of it. The

53

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 80, 1893.

marbles are magnificent pieces of work, and doubtless their value is
great, especially the figure of the great Napoleon, a costly and superb
piece of work in Carrara marble, but a gardener’s eye is quite likely to
wander from them to the grand Conifers, ornamental trees and lofty
timber in their vicinity. The forest trees at the back are noble
examples — and amongst the Conifers in front of them I would particu¬
larly mention Abies orientalis 25 to 30 feet high, A. Kutrow, an Indian
species about 20 feet, Picea Pinsapo, and P. Cembra, both about 20 feet,
together with Cryptomeria japonica 30 to 40 feet, and Cupressus Lawson-
iana about 30 feet, all of which are extremely handsome specimens.

The grounds at the other end of the house are little less attractive,
rich as they are in fine forest trees and Conifers. Corsican Pines are
amongst the most remarkable. In reaching there what is known as the
Church Walk is traversed, and the first portion of this is flanked by a
border of hardy plants, with a long wall covered with summer Koses at
the back. The latter were smothered in flowers, clustering in thick
masses right on to the top of the wall. The herbaceous plants consisted
of broad clumps, most of them a yard across or more, such bold and
brilliant flowers as Paeonies, Hemerocallis flava. Spiraea plumosa, Inula
glandulosa, Delphiniums, Geraniums, Centaureas, Potentillas, and Cam¬
panulas of many sorts being represented by huge masses. There may
not be much interest in such a border as this, consisting of more or less
common plants, to hardy plant specialists, but its effect is undeniable.

A somewhat brief reference must be made to the ornamental depart*
ment under glass, which is in every way as well managed as the gardens
and grounds. The conservatory was under revision, but a remarkably
fine pair of Rhapis flabelliformis, 10 feet high and 7 to 8 feet through,
were noticeable ; also a lofty Seaforthia elegans, 30 feet high, in flower,
and some immense Camellias. Later the structure, which is a very
spacious and lofty one, will be embellished by the noble spikes of
Campanula pyramidalis and other plants, now rapidly advancing, and
in autumn it will be gay with Chrysanthemums. There is a feature
about the plant houses at Grimston which is well worth copying. No
bare space is permitted at the sides of the paths and beneath the stages,
but all is attractively covered with such graceful plants as Fittonias,
Panicum variegatum, Tradescantias, Cyperus alternifolius, Selaginellas,
and a variety of Ferns. How great an improvement this is upon the
ordinary plan can only be realised by seeing Mr. Clayton’s work. The
houses are, so to say, finished. One of the most beautiful of the
structures is that in which an attempt is being made to eombine a cool
Orchid house with a fernery. The Ferns are not grown in pots on a
stage, but cover banks and nooks in a natural and graceful manner,
besides clothing the back wall, in association with Selaginellas, in a cool
garment of greenery. No special attempt is made to produce specimen
plants, but a few giants are noticeable, amongst them being a Davallia
Mooreana about 9 feet across. Orchids are extremely well managed.
There are from 300 to 400 Calanthes in a healthy and forward condition,
besides a good assortment of Cattleyas, Cypripediums, Pleiones, Thunias,
and others. It would be impossible to refer individually to all the stove
and greenhouse plants which are represented, but throughout there is
evidence of good culture and exceptional taste. At the front of one of
the houses, on a warm border at the foot of the wall, and facing south,

I noticed a grand mass of Guernsey Lilies. They are thoroughly
established and bloom most profusely, in fact a score of flowers may be
cut at a time instead of the ones and twos which are obtainable from the
usual handful of plants in pots under glass.

Some surprising results have been recorded amongst fruit and vege¬
tables ; for instance. Potatoes were lifted from a south border without
protection on the 26th of May, which is a striking proof of the earliness
of the season considering the northern locality. Strawberries (Noble)
were gathered at the same time. The Apple crop is somewhat dis¬
appointing, for there was a marvellous show of bloom. Lord Suffield,
Irish Peach and Yorkshire Greening being about the only three to carry
a really satisfactory burden of fruit. A dwarf, spreading, open type of
tree is favoured. The famous Sherburn Winesour Plum (for which as
much as a guinea has been paid for a stone of fruit from the limestone)
is bearing well. A south wall furnished with Peaches, Nectarines and
Plums is worth noticing. Condor proves to be one of the most useful of
the Peaches, ripening three weeks before the other varieties. Apricots
are loaded with fruit, and St. Ambroise is the most trustworthy variety.
It is an excellent sort, cropping well, displaying no desire to die off, and
being of good quality, though hardly equal to Moor Park. The Peaches
and Nectarines under glass are in splendid condition, Bellegarde, Grosse
Mignonne, A Bee, Early Albert, and Prince of Wales being a few of the
elect. The Vines are equally good. Mr. Fielden favoured the Frontignans,
and these, as well as the more popular varieties, are carrying admirable
crops. One house of Frankenthal, bearing the usual complement of
about 200 bunches, is particularly striking. The kitchen garden is
extensive and well cropped. Grand Brussels Sprouts are secured by
planting them 2 feet apart between rows of early Potatoes 3 feet asunder,
the soil being tilled around the sprouts after their associates are cleared
off. A dressing of wood ashes and night soil encourages splendid crops
of Onions, 1 ton and 70 lbs. having been taken off about 270 square
yards of ground last year, and the present year’s quarter is equally
promising. There is, in fact, the impress of good work in every depart¬
ment at Grimston, and in the present notes many things have been
lightly touehed on which merit special notice, but even with the season
of Rose shows practically over space is not too abundant.

Without a doubt Grimston Park may be ranked amongst the leading
places of the land, and Mr. Clayton as one of the foremost British
gardeners. — W. P. W.

Baely Flowering Chrysanthemums.

Those who grow the early Chrysanthemums can scarcely be other
than satisfied with the way in which the plants are flowering this year.
Those which I grow on borders are covered with bloom. Early Blush
being particularly good. This is a grand old early flowering variety, and
one that should be extensively grown; It is a favourite in many
suburban gardens in the north of London. The yellow and white
varieties are, however, more attractive, and of these a good selection
might be made. — Suburban.

National Chrysanthemum Society’s Annual Outing.

Following a thoroughly wet day it was generally thought, when the
morning of the 17th inst. opened dull and cloudy, that the annual picnic
and outing of the members of the National Chrysanthemum Society
would be somewhat a failure. Fate, however, ruled otherwise, and as
the black clouds rolled by the sun shone brilliantly on the “ Mum ”
growers and their friends who had burdened themselves, wisely, perhaps,
if too well, with umbrellas, macintoshes and other safeguards against
rain. The outing was a decided success from a numerical point of
view, and the officials of the N.C.S. must feel gratified with the
result. Thanks to the energies of Mr. R. Dean, the Secretary, the
arrangements were carried out in a most efficient manner, and all who
availed themselves of this opportunity for a pleasant run in the country
spent a most enjoyable day.

As previously announced in these pages, Wycombe Abbey, High
Wycombe, Bucks, the beautiful seat of the Right Hon. Lord Carrington,
was the place selected for this year’s picnic, and the parties were con¬
veyed thither by the Great Western Railway on Monday last. A long
programme had been arranged, and among other things was a cricket
match between members of the N.C.S. and the Aylesbury Floral and
Horticultural Society. This started at eleven o’clock, so to enable
the players to be on the ground promptly a party accompanied by Mr.
Dean left Paddington Station at 8.20 A.M., the other section following
at 11 A.M. On previous years the party has usually numbered about
eighty, but on this occasion there were at least 150. Arriving at their
destination the visitors explored the grounds, gardens, and watched the
cricket match, which proved a most exciting if not particularly brilliant
game. Those of our readers who are cricketers will be interested to
know that the N.C.S. team was beaten by seven wickets. In the first
innings neither side scored very heavily, but the bowling of Mr. Agate,
the well-known Havant Chrysanthemum grower, deserves more than a
passing reference. Playing for the N.C.S. team this bowler, who
obviously is as much at home in the cricket field as among his Chrys¬
anthemums, took no less than six wickets at the cost of one run — no
mean feat. Some of the opposing team also distinguished themselves
in the field.

An excellent dinner was served in the large Hall adjoining the
Abbey by Mr. F. W. Miles, and this was presided over by Mr. Dean.
Justice having been done to this by the excursionists, the loyal toasts
were proposed and drunk, following which came the toast of “ The
Health of Lord Carrington.” This was briefly proposed by Mr. R.
Ballantine, and Mr. Miles, the head gardener at Wycombe Abbey,
responded. Mr. Dean gave the “ Aylesbury Floral and Horticultural
Society,” coupled with the name of Mr. Fowler, the Captain of the
Aylesbury cricket team, who responded. An adjournment was then
made, the cricketers to resume their match, and the rest of the party to
wander over the grounds and neighbourhood. Many went to Hughenden
Manor, the residence of the late Earl of Beaconsfield, which is about two
miles distant, but here disappointment — the only blot in the day’s pro¬
gramme — awaited them. After exploring the pretty church at Hugh¬
enden, which, by the way, is of great historical interest, some of the
party proceeded to the Manor House with the object of seeing the
gardens. Here, however, they were met by the present proprietor, who
informed them that, owing to his not having received an intimation of
their visit, he was unable to allow them to view the grounds, which
apparently are rich in Conifers. Returning to High Wycombe, a visit
was made to the chair-making factory of Mr. W. Birch, who kindly
conducted the party over the premises and explained the details con¬
nected with his extensive business. This was one of the most interesting
features in the day’s programme, and those who failed to see the factory
missed a treat. Seats of every conceivable kind are made here in
thousands, and complete “ antique ” chairs are turned out in hundreds
by the aid of modern machinery 1

During the afternoon, too, an exploration of the gardens and grounds
of the Abbey was made. The pleasure grounds and park are of an
undulating and picturesque character, and, moreover, well wooded. The
common Beech seems to thrive remarkably well on the dry chalky slopes,
and on the lawn there are two exceedingly fine specimens of the Copper
Beech. Some large trees of Platanus orientalis also attract attention on
entering the grounds, and the same may be said of the Elms, which are
very fine. Bedding is not extensively done, but the Abbey is partially

JuTy JO, 1893. J

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

59

covered with various climbing plants, including Ampelopsis, Ivy, Roses,
and the Grape Vine. An old orangery near the house is of exceptional
interest, although Nature holds the sway on this beautiful place, but
few attempts at artificial decoration being noticeable. In the gardens
Vines, Peaches, and Cherries are evidently well cared for under glass,
and fruit is extensively grown in the open air. Vegetables, too, form a
feature, and it would appear that flowers for cutting are required in
bulk. Carnations are extensively grown, as also are other plants that
give an abundance of blossom. At G P.M. visitors partook of tea in the
hall, and at 8 P.M. most of them assembled at the railway station on the
homeward journey, evidently tired but satisfied with their day’s outing.

HORTICULTURAL SHOWS.

WOLVERHAMPTON.— July 11th, 12th, 13th.

The character of the Roses exhibited on the occasion of the great
floral fete held in this busy Midland town was indicated last week, and
the names of the successful competitors in the chief classes recorded.
There was, however, a great and meritorious display in other sections —
specimen plants, groups, flowers, fruit, and vegetables, to which reference
must be made without any pretence to giving a detailed report and full
list of prizewinners. This would be too exacting on space during a
period of pressure, while a great deal of the matter would possess local
interest only. It is true the Wolverhampton Shows are local, but it is
equally true they are much more than this, for the more important
classes are open to all comers ; and so great have been the successes
during past seasons, that in the course of five years the floral fete has
won for itself an honourable position among the great provincial
gatherings of the kingdom. This is due mainly to a generous, yet well-
considered policy adopted by a Committee of large views and business
capacity, whose services are recognised by the municipal authorities as
well as by the inhabitants of the town and surrounding district. The
Mayor of Wolverhampton (T. C. Mander, Esq.) is President of the
Society, and takes an active interest in its prosperity. In response to
his invitation the town was decorated from end to end, and everything
was joyous — till the rain came down.

The rain 1 It was not a drizzling that fell at wide intervals, but
exactly the reverse, for the rain almost came down in sheets, and only
the best of tents could have afforded shelter from the downpour. The
canvas was, however, good, and a large extent was necessary for accom¬
modating the exhibits. Five marquees, each apparently 150 feet long
or more, and 40 or 50 feet wide, were well filled in every case. But what
of the officials 1 They must not be pictured with doleful countenances.
“ The rain would do good, the Treasurer was well fortified, the weather
would clear and the crowds come before the three fete days were over.”
That appeared to be predominating theme, and a more cheerful body of
officials were never seen under the watery circumstances, but they had
their equal at Woodbridge in Suffolk three days later ; of that, however,
more anon, and we will now take a glance at some of the Wolverhamp¬
ton exhibits.

Specimen Plants and Groups. — Of these there was a wonderfully fine
display, as there ought, considering that close upon £80 were offered in
the two classes. The first was for sixteen stove and greenhouse plants,
not less than eight in bloom. When it is said that Mr. Cypher put forth
his full strength it will be conceded there was something to see. He
won the £20 prize with a grand collection. His chief flowering plants
were Erica Parmentieriana rosea, a huge fleecy mass ; Kalosanthes
coccinea, a glowing semi-globe ; Allamanda nobilis and Statice profusa
like a huge bouquet. The foliage plants were also noteworthy for size
and excellence. The second prizewinner, Mr. Finch, gardener to
J. Marriott, Esq., Coventry, w'as a powerful antagonist, and well won
the £15 with, among others, a symmetrical and densely flowered example
of Erica impressa, a large Aphelexis and still larger Ixora, with a neat
Allamanda grandiflora, fine Palms, and a splendid specimen of Croton
Morti. Mr. Dyer, gardener to Mrs. Marigold, Edgbaston, won the
remaining prize of £10 with a highly creditable assortment. Messrs.
Cypher and Finch were the respective winners in the class for six
flowering plants with fine examples. In foliage plants the first-named
exhibitor was prominent, his Croton angustifolius, 8 feet in diameter,
resembling a fountain of gold. In the class for six exotic Ferns, Mr.
R. Sharpe, gardener to J. Lovatt, Esq., Bushbury, was the premier
exhibitor with large and admirably grown plants, Mr. Dyer following —
a strong second. Among the six Orchids with which Mr. J. Palmer,
gardener to Wm. Bown, Esq., Birmingham, won the chief prize, was a
remarkable plant of Epidendrum prismatocarpum with twenty-seven
vigorous spikes and hundreds of sparkling flowers. This plant was in
consideration for the medal offered for the gardener’s or amateur’s
exhibit that displayed the best culture in the Show, but Mr. Finch’s
great and good contribution of specimens overwhelmed it. Mr. Palmer
a’so had Cattleya Sanderiana in admirable condition.

Groups. — Prizes of £15, £10, £5, and £3 were offered in the open
class for plants arranged for effect in space not exceeding 450 square
feet. There were five competitors, whose collections were arranged down
the centre of a large tent, and produced in the aggregate a picturesque
display. Mr. Cypher was the premier exhibitor with a somewhat
diamond shaped arrangement. The ground was covered with Adiantum
cuneatum, forming a level surface, in which was lightly dotted small
Palms, Crotons, and Orchids. The four corner points of the diamond
each contained larger Palms and Orchids, and in the centre was a bold
free mound of Hydrangea paniculata in a groundwork of Ferns, sur¬

mounted by a graceful specimen of Phoenix rupicola. It was a charming
arrangement without the least suspicion of crowding, every plant
showing itself fully, and all good. The second prize was well won by
Mr. Francis Denning, Moseley, Birmingham, with a somewhat similar
shaped group, but with more points — no improvement. Libonias were
effectively disposed with Palms, Liliums, Crotons, Caladiums, and
Statices amongst Ferns. A good group but rather crowded. Mr. W. H.
Dyer was third with a richly coloured group of well grown plants, but
rather too many of them. The fourth prize was won by Mr. J. Wright,
nurseryman, Wolverhampton, who also employed too many plants.

Prizes of £6, £4, and £3 were also offered for groups not to exceed
400 square feet, open to gardeners in Staffordshire, Worcestershire,
Warwickshire, and Shropshire. Mr. W. A. Powell, gardener to G. H.
Kenrick, Esq., Edgbaston, was the premier exhibitor with a circular
arrangement of well-grown plants — Liliums, Palms, and ornamental
foliaged kinds, brightened with Libonias and Clerodendron fallax,
margined with Isolepis. Mr. S, Horton, gardener to W. Fowler, Esq.,
Sedgley, was second, Francoas being effectively associated with Crotons,
Orchids, Bouvardias, and Ferns. The remaining prize was won by
Mr. Dyer.

Fruit. — The display of this was not remarkable for extent, while the
quality of several dishes left much to be desired, still there were credit¬
able examples of cultirre in the chief prizewinning collections.

With a collection of ten varieties, including black and white Grapes,
Mr. Gilman, gardener to the Earl of Shrewsbury, Ingestrie Hall, took
the lead with a good Pine, excellent Black Hamburgh and good Foster’s
Seedling Grapes, a fine Melon, with excellent dishes of Peaches,
Nectarines, Figs, and Waterloo Strawberries. Mr. Bannerman, gardener
to Lord Bagot, was a rather close second, with excellent produce ; and
Mr. John Bailey third.

In the class for four bunches of Grapes, distinct, Mr. J. Wilkes,
gardener to Mrs. Meakin, won first honours with Madresfield Court,
Black Hamburgh, Foster’s Seedling, and Muscat of Alexandria, not
large, but all ripe and good. Mr. Sidney Brammill, gardener to
W. H. F. Mayhurst, Esq., was second with larger but less ripe bunches
of Alicante, Foster’s Seedling, Gros Maroc, and Muscat of Alexandria ;
Mr. Bannerman third with Foster’s Seedling, Alnwick Seedling, Duke
of Buccleuch, and Black Hamburgh, neat bunches, good berries, ripe,
but rubbed. With two bunches of white Grapes Mr. C. Froud, Coventry,
won first with good Muscats, Mr. Brammill second with fine Foster’s
Seedlings, and Mr. Bannerman third with small bunches but clean and
good berries of Duke of Buccleuch. In the corresponding class for
black Grapes Mr. Froud was first with Black Hamburgh, and Mr.
Brammill second with Alicante. In the local class for six dishes of
fruit the prizes were won by Messrs. Brammill and Bannerman, both
staging excellent collections. Mr. F. W. Plant, Bilston, staged most
creditable Black Hamburgh Grapes, not for competition, grown on
banks formed by the excavations from coal mines, and perhaps some¬
thing else. They deserved a mark of high commendation. The best
Peaches and Nectarines were staged by Mr. Waite, gardener to Col. the
Hon. W. P. Talbot, Glenhurst, Esher, who also took the lion’s share of
prizes for vegetables offered by Messrs. Buttons, Webbs, and Carters,
closely followed by Mr. T. Wilkins, gardener to Lady Guest, Inwood
House, Blandford. The collections were excellent.

Out Floioers. — In the open classes only two stands of twenty-four
varieties of hardy herbaceous flowers were staged. First, Messrs.
Townsend & Sons, Worcester ; second Mr. G. Newell, gardener, Birming¬
ham. Mr. Alderman Dickinson, Chairman of the Baths and Parks
Committee, offered a two-guinea prize for twenty-four varieties of
hardy flowers most suitable for park decoration, but there was only
one exhibit made by Messrs. Townsend & Sons, and these were chiefly
annuals, and some of not a very decorative character. The idea is a
good one, but it will be well in the future to make the schedule more
definite. Mr. Paul Lutz, of Wolverhampton, offered as a first prize a
handsome gold medal for the best display of Pansies and Violas, and
Messrs. Dobbie & Co., Rothesay, won it with a superb display well
staged. The Viola sprays, a large number, were especially attractive
amongst the newer kinds. In addition, and as a part of Messrs.
Dobbie’s display, there was a good display of the choicest Sweet Peas,
some superb African and striped French Marigolds, Pelargoniums, Carna¬
tions, and herbaceous flowers, to all of which a handsome silver medal
was awarded. The second prize for collection of Pansies and Violas
was awarded to Messrs. Paul & Co. ; third to Mr. Campbell, both well-
known Scottish florists. Messrs. Perkins & Sons won the prizes for
bouquets.

Miscellaneous ExliiUts.—Tl'he^.e. were extremely numerous, and in
many instances of excellent quality. Messrs. Smith & Co., Worcester,
had a display of herbaceous and other blooms ; Messrs. Birkenhead,
Sale, Manchester, their usual fine display of choice Ferns ; Mr. J. H. White,
nurseryman, Worcester, a bright effective display of cut herbaceous
blooms, Carnations, and Begonias; Mr. C. F. Thurstans, Wolverhampton,
fine Carnation and Picotee blooms ; Messrs. Edwards & Sons, Sherwood,
Nottingham, a pretty display of Edwardsian pottery and Ferns ;
Messrs. Webb & Sons, vegetables ; Mr. Bason, Wolverhampton, his
famous Mushroom spawn ; Messrs. Hewitt & Co., Solihull, Birmingham,
a fine display of Begonia, Carnation, and herbaceous blooms ; Messrs.
Thomson & Co., Sparkhill, Birmingham, some good border Carnations
and other flowers ; and Messrs. Dobbs & Co., Wolverhampton, and Mr.
R. Lowe, Wolverhampton, also had honorary exhibits.

Garden accessories were in evidence outside the tents, and medals
were awarded to Messrs. Wright k Holmes, Birmingham, for excellent

60

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 20, 1893.

greenhouses and garden frames and their improved glazing ; to Messrs.
Bayliss & Inmann, Birmingham, for artistically designed and constructed
garden arbours, &c. ; to Mr. G. H. Brotherton, Wolverhampton, for
garden furniture ; to Mr. Jabez Attwood, Stourbridge, for improved
hot-water apparatus for amateur greenhouses, and to Messrs. W. Cook
and Co., Wolverhampton, for their patent double-action force foot
pump, an excellent and easily worked garden hose distributor.

On the third day of the Exhibition special prizes were offered for
garden Roses, the object of the Committee being to encourage the
cultivation of the older-fashioned garden Roses, and at this Show
last year these were brought out in good style, many very old
garden favourites being seen. But this year our old kinds had been
prematurely driven into and out of flower, and scarcely any were left
for exhibition, so H.P.’s and Teas and what older Roses were left in
flower had to be fallen back upon. Messrs. Perkins & Sons won flrst
prizes, and Messrs. Townsend & Sons seconds. Mr. Coombs, gardener
at Himley, was first for a basket of such Roses.

As a result of the successes of the annual floral fites, the public park
in which they were held has benefited by sundry erections, and recently
an offer of £1000 was made by the Show Committee to the Town
Council for the erection of a conservatory in the park, with an under¬
taking to maintain it. This was not accepted, on the ground that the
amount would be more acceptable if applied to the acquirement of an
additional park in another locality, where such appears to be needed.
The Show Committee, however, prefer to take their stand on the prin¬
ciple that where the money was earned there it should be expended.
Undoubtedly the erection of a sensible and commodious structure would
be an acquisition, as at Leicester and other places, including some of the
London parks ; and in every instance, so far as we know, where displays
of Chrysanthemums have been provided under glass in the autumn they
have given unbounded satisfaction. These park Chrysanthemum shows
are visited by thousands, and the public interest in them increases
yearly. It is possible the offer in question will be reconsidered, and we
may expect the end of it will be that both a new park will be obtained
and a new feature of interest added to the fine existing enclosure. This
would be a happy issue of which the authors would have every reason
to be proud in achieving. As evidence of the success of the Wolver¬
hampton Shows as rehabilitated largely on the initiative of Mr. W. A.
Green, an ardent amateur florist and trusted town oflScial, it may be
stated that the takings in 1889 amounted to £907, in 1890 to £986, in
1891 to £1275, in 1892 (wet days) to £1152. On the present occasion
the rain led to a reduction of £175 the first day, the receipts being
£100 73. 6d. On the second day they were £322 5s., and on the third
£589 9s. 6d., the greatest amount ever taken in one day at these shows.
On the last day there were 35,000 visitors.

BOSTON. — July 12th.

The “ port of Lincolnshire ” was en fete on the 12th of July, the
annual horse, dog, cat, bird, rabbit, Rose and horticultural Show taking
place on that date. One large tent suflBced for the gardening portion
of the Show, contiguous to which was that devoted to the canines, and
it was to a mournful accompaniment of howls in all manner of keys
that our representative pursued his work. He thought of giving the
dogs a look up afterwards, but a stony stare from a sad-eyed bull dog
induced him to alter his mind and he contented himself with admiring
Spratts’ fine stand of biscuits, &c., outside. The plants were not a very
grand display, but cut flowers, fruit, and vegetables were very fair,
while the few Roses staged were excellent.

Taking the fruit first, the first prize for black Grapes was awarded to
Mr. A. Black, who had large and heavy bunches, but unfortunately they
were rubbed, and their appearance thus marred. The variety appeared
to be Gros Maroc. Mr. A. Jarnell was second with Black Hamburgh,
small, but splendidly coloured ; and J. Oldred, Esq., third. Whites
were not nearly so good, the first prize bunch (that of Mr. A. Lighten)
being uneven, and Mr. Black’s second prize cine unripe. There were
some splendid dishes of Gooseberries, such as are not often seen in the
south. Mr. W. Nightscales was first, the Rev. T. Staffurth second, and
Mr. Jarnell third. It is getting late for Strawberries, and only two
moderate dishes were shown, Mr. Vinters being first, and Mr. M. Crowden
second. Currants were excellent, especially the blacks. Mr. King and
Mr. Staffurth both had splendid dishes, the former winning. The
third prize went to Mr. W. Greenfield. Mr. Staffurth won with whites,
and Mr. Nightscales with reds, a second award going to Mr. Greenfield.
R^pberries were rather poor, and so were Cherries, Mr. King winning
with the former, Mr. Staffurth second. Only a second prize was awarded
for Cherries, this going to Mr. Crowden. Mr. Black had the best dish
of Peaches, Mr. Dolby following, and the latter won with Nectarines.

The vegetable exhibits were good on the whole. Tomatoes were
grandly represented, there being twelve dishes in all, most of them
excellent in quality. Mr. King won with a very fine dish of the Per¬
fection type, Mr. Lighten second, and Mr. Vinters third. The best of a
fair lot of Peas came from Mr. Nightscales, Messrs. Crowden and Green¬
field following. French Beans were of about equal quality, the prizes
going to Messrs. Crowden, Nightscales and Staffurth. Broad Beans were
very good, Messrs. Nightscales, Staffurth and Jarnell being first, second,
and third in the order of their names. A splendid pair of Cauliflowers
came from Mr. Dolby, who won from Messrs. Nightscales and Crowden,
and Cucumbers were equally well shown by Mr. Greenfield, who defeated
Messrs. Crowden and Nightscales. Cabbages as shown by Messrs. Dolby
(first), King (second), and W. Mumford (third) were all very good, but
neither Lettuce nor Endive was quite up to the mark. Mr. Crowden took

a second prize for both . Mr. Dolby had excellent Carrots and won easily
from Messrs. Mumford and Crowden. Capital Turnips came from Mr. Roe,
who easily defeated Messrs. Mumford and Jarnell. He also showed Onions
extremely well, the second and third prizes for these going to Messrs.
Staffurth and Mumford. Mr. Roe had a somewhat thin pot of Parsley,
but the quality was better than that of Messrs. Mumford and Staffurth,
who followed him in the order of their names. Mr. Staffurth was the
only exhibitor of Rhubarb, and was placed first for grand sticks. Mr.
Dolby won with Kidney Potatoes and Mr. Nightscales with rounds, the
minor awards going to Messrs. Staffurth, Jarnell, and Crowden.

In another section Messrs. Craven and Lockwood divided most of the
first prizes for fruit between them, and also showed very prominently in
the vegetable classes, other prizes going to Dr. Ashdown, Mr. A. Tapster,
and Mr. Vines. The latter had some excellent Potatoes. In classes for
collections of vegetables, Messrs. Dolby and Tapster secured first prizes,
the minor ones going to Messrs. Jarnell, Craven, and Ashdown.

Cut flowers were somewhat numerous. Mr. J. Illman, Lincoln, had
the best bouquet and also the best one of Roses, Mr. Dolby following in
each class. The latter won with garden flowers, and was also first in
other classes, but Mr. Illman defeated him with buttonholes and also
with twelve stove and greenhouse flowers, the Lincoln exhibitor having
some fine clusters. With hardy flowers Mr. W. Clegg was first and Mr.
Dolby second. Pansies were rather poor, neither Mr. Clegg nor Miss
Porter, who were first and second respectively, having particularly good
blooms. The Rose classes showed a must unusual state of affairs, there
being only two exhibitors, Messrs. G. «fc W. H. Burch and Mr. Clegg.
The Peterborough growers were placed first for forty-eight, second for
twenty-four, and second for twelve trebles, having no opposition in each
case. Their forty-eight stand was a very fine one, and the twenty-four
deserved first prize considering the season. Mr. Clegg was first in another
class for twelve.

Plants were only moderate. Mr. Oldred appeared to be the only
exhibitor of Selaginellas, and was placed first for healthy plants. Mr.
Dolby was the only exhibitor of Petunias, Fuchsias, and Begonias. The
latter were the best, and the first prize was given to them ; but he had to
put up with second for the others. The best group came from Mr.
Oldred. It was well arranged, but somewhat wanting in flowers, the
foliage work having been a little overdone. Mr. Dolby was second with
a group exhibiting precisely the same fault as the other. Mr. Night¬
scales wag third. Mr. Dolby won with a hanging basket, and the first
prize for foliage plants went to Mr. A. O. Scrivener, whose plants were
small but healthy. Mr. Dolby was second, and Mr. Nightscales third.
Mr. Dolby won with Coleus, having large plants just a little wanting in
colour ; and for Ferns the prizes went to Messrs. Oldred, Dolby, and
Black in the order of their names.

WOODBRIDGE.— July 13th.

A LOCAL reporter, skilled in the art of observation and description,
“ wrote up to ” the annual Exhibition, which is an event of the year,
in the “ East Anglian Daily Times ” as follows : — “ The annual show of
the Woodbridge Horticultural Society, which claims and deserves the
name of a grand musical and floral fete, was held on Thursday last under
somewhat unfavourable conditions. It is a traditional coincidence, not
out of harmony with the different character of the two enterprises, that
Ipswich Flower Show is always spoiled by rain, and the neighbouring
event always brightened by sunshine. With the present exceptional
season, however, there was a change of luck. Rain fell in torrents just
as the charming Abbey Grounds opened upon this year’s Exhibition at
Woodbridge, and the weather was dull and threatening throughout the
day. The scene lost something of its bright and pleasure-inspiring
aspect in consequence, but it takes something more than a few showers
to subdue the energy of the promoters, or the public spirit of the in¬
habitants, and in all essential respects the old prestige of the town was
splendidly sustained. The streets were decorated, general holiday was
observed, and there was an exceedingly large attendance of visitors
from all parts of the neighbouring district. The entrance to the Show
was by a path beneath the spreading Beeches in front of Capt. R. J.
Carthew’s mansion — whose kindness on these occasions merits warm
acknowledgment — and the splendid site provided on the sloping
meadows beyond was laid out in much the same style as in previous years.
Four large marquees were erected for the staging of the various exhibits ;
a handsome bandstand was “ o’er-canopied ” with festoons, and illumi¬
nated at night by fairy lights ; and the natural surroundings, with the
square tower of St. Mary’s Church rising above the trees, formed a
lovely setting to the animated scene. Judges from a distance were much
impressed with the beauty of the grounds. The prize schedule comprised
nearly 200 classes, and, generally speaking, the Show was a long way
ahead of the Ipswich and East of England Exhibition, and why it should
be so was a question much discussed by visitors from the county
town. Does the inferiority arise from want of money, lack of good
management, or what ? The fact remains, whatever may be the cause,
and the Woodbridge folk have good reason to feel gratified with the
comparison.”

The Woodbridge Shows are popular for several reasons. 1, The Society
has been long established, and its Jubilee Exhibition is not far distant.
2, It is managed by a body of business men who take great interest in the
shows and work together harmoniously. 3, The town, of between 4000
and 5000 inhabitants, is breezy and clean, and not too far from Ipswich
(about seven miles by rail) to render the journey a task. 4, The
Exhibition grounds are picturesque, and in themselves a force of attrac¬
tion. 5, The local gentry, tradesmen, and apparently the inhabitants

July 20, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

61

generally take an interest in the event. 6, The best garden produce
obtainable is displayed, and the best music provided — no roundabouts
or mountebankism, but a pure “ floral and musical ” fete, with nothing
whatever to offend, but wholesome pleasure is great objective ; and (7)
the people appreciate all that is done for their delectation, and attend
the Shows, “ rain or shine.” It was nearly all rain on this last
occasion, and it seemed proper to endeavour to sympathise with MrfJohn
Andrews, the indefatigable Honorary Secretary, on the prospective
failure ; but sympathy was wasted. “ Oh ! never mind,” he coolly
replied, “ we usually have it flne, and you will see the people will come
if it does rain.” It rained in torrents, and two of the Judges at least will
not forget it (for they had to reach London before getting dried), yet soon
after the Show was open the tents were filled with visitors, and a stream
of people entered the grounds — as fine an assemblage as one could hope
to see. Well done, Woodbridge 1

The Rose tent was perhaps the great centre of attraction , for therein
was the contest for the 25-guinea cup with stands of twenty-four blooms.
Not as a competitor in the class but as an adjudicator, a rosarian was
espied, who wears the familiar initials “ W. E. R.” Good humour was
stamped on his countenance, and to the gentle suggestion that he would
“ take a note of the Roses ” came a response ” Yes, short.” Not that he
wanted anything ; he simply meant his acccount would be a short one,
and here it is, quite long enough for the time of year.

The competition in the professional classes was good, one of the
brothers Harkness holding his own well against the full strength of
Colchester, while at the same time the other brother was winning the
Jubilee cup at Worksop against the rest of Great Britain and Ireland.
It was a considerable feat, but Roses are grown in such quantities by
the leading members of the trade, that it is probable, without detracting
from the merits of the performance, that any one of them at his best,
with all the others out of form, might have done it.

For the Woodbridge challenge cup, value 25 guineas, Messrs. Harkness
was placed first, the best bloom being an exceptionally fine specimen of
Duke of Wellington, Horace Vernet, Reynolds Hole, and Earl of Dufferin
being also very fine. The stand was sadly marred by three light-coloured
blooms put in for the sake of change of colour. La France being espe¬
cially poor. Mr. Frank Cant was second, not far behind, having Black
Prince very fine, and the Duke of Connaught good. Mr. B. R. Cant
third.

In forty-eights Messrs. Harkness were again first, Horace Vernet
and Reynolds Hole being again conspicuous. Mr. B. Cant second, and
Mr. Frank Cant third. In twelve Teas Messrs. Prior were first, Mr.
B. Cant coming as a very close second indeed, and Mr. F. Cant third.
In twelve trebles Messrs. Harkness were again to the front, Horace
Vernet being once more the pick of the collection. Mr. B. Cant second,
and Mr. F. Cant third. It transpired, however, that the schedule, which
was somewhat eccentric, specified twelve trebles of H.P.’s, and as Mr.
B. Cant had a fine triplet of Mar^chal Niel inadvertently inserted, a
substantial extra prize was liberally awarded to them by the Executive,
and Messrs. Prior became third.

A silver medal was to be awarded to the best Rose in the professional
classes, but as the cup class was strangely debarred there was some
trouble about this, and the award eventually went to the best shaped
flower, a very light coloured specimen of Comtesse d’Oxford in Mr.
B. Cant’s forty-eight. Each of Messrs. Harkness’ stands was disfigured
by sorry specimens of Comtesse de Serenye, introduced apparently for
the sake of light colour.

In the amateur classes the competition was as weak as it was good in
the trade division. It was as diflBcult to avoid winning a prize as it
sometimes is, and should be, to get one. A certain gentleman, having no
opponent, won a third prize for six H.P.’s of a sort with five indifferent
blooms ; there was a stem and a few scattered petals on the moss to
show where there had presumably been another specimen, but nothing
more. In the principal class (18), Rev. A. Foster-Melliar had no
opponent, a good bloom of Mrs. John Laing winning him also the medal
for the best Rose in the large amateur classes. For twelve Teas, the same
gentleman and Mr. Orpen renewed their Crystal Palace contest with the
same result, the Sproughton Teas being much larger, though not quite
so well shown. Mr. Orpen, however, secured two medals, both with
Mar6chal Niels : one for the best Rose in the smaller amateur classes,
and one, which was a sure win for him to start with, as he had no
opponent, for the best Rose grown by an Essex amateur.

The schedule, though not altogether satisfactory, was evidently
designed with the utmost goodwill for the encouragement of small
growers, there being classes for those growing less than 1000 and less
than 500 plants local classes for districts of different radius, and classes
for four, two, and even single specimens. It w’as disheartening to see
only one exhibit in a class, and even some classes perfectly empty ; but
what could be expected in such a season ? Thus ends the Roses, and
there is very little space left for the rest. This may be filled by the
Ipswich chronicler, as we have internal evidence that it was whispered
to him by one of the Judges who oflficiated in the classes referred to.

Second in order of arrangement was the marquee in which fruit
and first-class vegetables were displayed. Lord Suflfield was as suc¬
cessful here as were the north country exhibitors with Roses and
perennials. His lordship’s collection of eight varieties of fruit, so
well grown by Mr. Allan, the able gardener, would have taken a
leading position at any show in England, so fine was the quality
of them all. Two new varieties of Strawberries were here particularly
noticeable. One of them, named Lord Suflfield, is particularly dark
-coloured, and, unlike some others of that hue, is also of delicious

flavour. The other, Gunton Park, very bright, firm, and good. Both
sorts received special certificates because of their novelty and ex¬
cellence, and will probably take a position as standard Strawberries.
Throughout the fruit was excellent. Grapes were generally good,
although some small and loose bunches were seen. Melons looked a
great deal better than they were, for there was quite a remarkable
absence of flavour. The Judges, after tasting every variety, had great
difficulty in finding four good enough for the prizes, and the smallest
Melon of the lot was eventually selected as the best. Cherries were
splendidly shown in all classes. Lord Suflfield’s Black, Tartarian and
White Hearts were marvellous specimens, and the Morellos could hardly
be beaten anywhere. Peaches and Nectarines were not extensively
shown, and the first prize dishes were unmistakeably first ; there was a
great falling off in the rest. Red, White, and Black Currants made an
astonishing show, such as is rarely seen. Messrs. Daniels Bros, of
Norwich had a capital stand here, not for competition, of Gloxinias,
Pelargoniums, Carnations, and new varieties of Potatoes and Peas. The
vegetables were staged around the sides, and were also in harmony with
the general standard of excellence.

A third tent was devoted to cottagers’ exhibits, and this must be
passed by — for want of space, not because the exhibits were unworthy of
notice. Last of all, but not least, came the grand section for pot
plants and groups arranged for effect. An old moral was here pointed
by the Judges. The first prize was given, not to the more imposing
groups, but to that (Lord Rendlesham’s) which was most freely and
artistically arranged, without packing and overcrowding. That every
plant should show its own beauty without using one to hide the defects
of another, is the principle on which a decision was arrived at. In the
centre of Lord Rendlesham’s display was a plant of the graceful
Humea elegans, and the group was made up of Carnations, Tuberoses,
Orchids (for which the Eendlesham Hall gardens are famed), and
bright scarlet Anthuriums, together with splendid pots of Dracsena,
Caladiums, and Crotons. Some of the others had too many Crotons,
but the second and third were simply spoiled by overcrowding. The
most remarkable feature of the Show here, however, was supplied by
the Tuberous Begonias. A new class was formed for groups of Begonias
and Maidenhair Ferns in pots (6 feet by 3 feet), and this association of
bright colour with delicate foliage had a surpassingly lovely effect.
Woodbridge people must be careful to develop an idea which they have
had the honour of originating. The Begonias in pots in the classes
were highly creditable to the whole of the cultivators. Baskets of pot
plants were effective. Exotic and hardy Ferns (first prizes for both
going to the Duke of Hamilton) were noticeably good, and the larger
specimen plants — Pandanus, Acalypha, Asparagus plumosus, Allamanda,
foliage Begonias, and so forth — completed a grand general grouping.

Woodbridge is a very pleasant town with fertile land surrounding it,
and this well tilled. The noble church, with the magnificent Seckford
Charity, however, constitute the pride of the place. The latter was
founded by Thomas Seckford in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, and sup¬
ported by a small estate in Clerkenwell, then let for a little more than
£100 a year. It now comprises several streets, and yields a great
revenue. The homes for decayed tradesmen and their widows have a
frontage of 337 feet. The inmates have two rooms and a garden, the
aged couples enjoying about £30 a year and single inmates £20, with
clothing, medical attendance, and everything necessary to their comfort.
A pleasure ground and broad terrace walk 560 feet long in front of the
buildings is free to all and the public. The site is unique and
picturesque. On remarking to the occupant of one of the dwellings, a
hale old man, yet bent with years, that he had an outlook as grand as
the Prince of Wales has, he replied, with great emphasis, “ Yes, sir ; and
I am as happy as the Prince is too.” It is truly a splendid charity,
and as well worthy of a note as the flower Show is in the salubrious
Suffolk town.

CHERTSEY, WALTON, AND WEYBRIDGE.— July 13th.

The twenty-eighth annual summer Exhibition of this Society w’as
held this year on July 13th in the grounds of Oatlands Lodge, belonging
to C. Swinfen Eady, Esq., in every way a charming site for such a
purpose. The place is rich in historic points, having been once the
residence of the first Duke of York. In the grounds there is a magnifi¬
cent grotto, said to have cost £40,000 in building. The grounds are
beautifully timbered, some very fine Beeches and Lebanon Cedars are to
be seen. The Exhibition, although showing a slight falling off in large
specimen plants, was a really good general one. The exhibits were nume¬
rous, and altogether of commendable quality. The groups arranged for
effect had a tent to themselves. Mr. Rawlings, the energetic Secretary,
as usual, had all the arrangements complete by the specified time.

Substantial special prizes were offered for the group of plants. There
were five competed in the class for a group to be arranged in a half
circle 14 feet by 7 feet. Mr. G. J. Cook, gardener to J. S. Sassoon,
J)sq., J.P., Ashley Park, Walton, was a good first with a remarkably fine
arrangement of suitable plants. Well grown and coloured Crotons were
effectively disposed above a base of Maidenhair Fern, intermixed with such
decorative plants as Francoa ramosa. Cocos Weddelliana, Pancratium
fragrans, and Gloxinias. Mr. G. Carpenter, gardener to Major Collis
Brown, Broad Oaks, Byfleet, was a good second, a trifle heavier in the
arrangement. Mr. H. Jacques, gardener to Miss Kenny, The Almness,
Chertsey, third. Four charming groups were arranged in the class for
those less in size than the former. Mr. Hopkins, gardener to Mrs.
Wodderspoon, Walton-on-Thames, was first. The arrangement of suit¬
able plants was all that could be desired. Mr. Millican, gardener to

62

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 20, 1893.

H. Cobbett, Eiq., Ongar Hill, Addlestone, a good second. Lilium auratum
and longiflorum were especially effective here. Mr. Cook staged the
best six foliage plants, also the finest exotic Ferns ; well grown speci¬
mens. Mr. Hopkins took the premier award for a specimen flowering
plant, a profusely bloomed Bougainvillea glabra, Mr. Jacques following
with Clerodendron Balfourianum. Mr. Millican had choice varieties and
well grown specimens in the class for British Ferns, which are usually
well shown here. Mr. Cheeseman, gardener to W. Kiddall, Esq., Rydens
Road, Walton, won in the class for Fuchsias with four specimens freely
flowered and not too formally trained. Tuberous Begonias are always
a feature at this Exhibition. Those staged on this occasion were no
exception, being not only freely grown but grandly flowered, Mr.
W. Stedman, gardener to Miss Verity, Moorcroft, Weybridge, carrying
off premier honours. A class was provided for dwarf Lobelias in pots,
and a good display they made, being compact and freely flowered. Mr.
Pagram, gardener to A. F. Hobhouse, Esq., The Whim, Weybridge, was
first. Mr. Stedman staged the best Gloxinias, well grown and freely
flowered.

Cut flowers were numerously staged, making a bright display ; space,
however, forbids more than a passing reference to one or two classes.
Mr. Will Taylor, Osborn Nursery, West Hampton, took the premier award
in the class for twenty-four distinct bloom Roses, with fresh well-formed
flowers, if not large. Mr. T. Osman, Ottershaw Park, Chertsey, staged
the best stand of miscellaneous flowers. Mr. Pagram won with herbaceous
flowers in a spirited competition. Zonal Pelargoniums, both single
and double varieties, were well represented by several exhibitors.

Fruit, though not numerous, was good in quality. For the best
collection of six varieties there were four competitors. Mr. J. Swann,
gardener to Murray Smith, Esq., Brockley Lodge, Weybridge, won the
premier honour with well-finished Black Hamburgh and Foster’s Seed¬
ling Grapes (extra fine). Princess of Wales Peaches, Hero of Lockinge
Melon, and Apricots. Mr. Osman was second. Mr. Swann secured the lead¬
ing position in the classes for both black and white Grapes, two bunches
of each, with really fine examples of Black Hamburgh and Foster’s
Seedling, Mr. Osman following in the former class, and Mr. C. Gardner,
gardener to R. H. Turner, Esq., Rydens Road, Walton, in the last named
class. With Princess of Wales Mr. Swann secured leading award in
the class for a single dish of Peaches, Mr. Carpenter securing a similar
distinction for Nectarines. Mr. Protheroe, gardener to Miss Green,
Oakwood, Weybridge, had a really good Melon (Premier) in the class
for that fruit.

Messrs. J. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, staged an interesting group of
plants not for competition, in which figured some very fine double
Tuberous Begonias. Mr. G. Jackman, Woking, had eight dozen Roses,
also not for competition.

PEOPLE’S PALACE. — July 13th, 14th, 15th.

A Flower and Rose Show was held at the People’s Palace, Mile
End Road, E., on July 13th and the two following days, primarily for
the purpose of encouraging horticulture in the east of London. The
Exhibition was opened by Lady Rothschild, who was supported by,
amongst others, the Hon. L, Rothschild, Sir Frederick Young, K.C.M.G.,
Spencer Charrington, Esq., M.P., F. Wootton Isaacson, Esq., M.P.,
T. Dyer Edwards, Esq., Harry S. Samuel, Esq., Frederick Charrington,
L.C.C., Nathaniel L. Cohen, Esq., S. B. Boulton, Esq., and C. A. Murton,
Esq. The opening ceremony was of a formal character, and various
speeches were made. Mr. Cohen, in the course of some remarks, observed
that the governors of the People’s Palace were looking forward to the
time when it would be possible to form a horticultural society and hold
exhibitions of a more pretentious nature in the building. Messrs. Harold
Boulton, Ernest Flower, and C. E. Osborne are the Hon. Secretaries, and
by these gentlemen the arrangements were admirably conducted.

A large and effective group of plants came from the Royal Gardens,
Frogmore, and these being sent by Her Majesty the Queen attracted
much attention. They comprised Palms, Liliums, Caladiums, Balsams,
Campanulas, Crotons, and Perns. The Duke of Fife also sent some
Crotons, Dracsenas, and Pandanus, with bunches of cut flowers, includ¬
ing Iceland Poppies, Sweet Peas, Carnations, and Liliums. Lord
Rothschild (gardener, Mr. Reynolds) also had a group of plants, amongst
which Ferns, Crotons, Dracaenas, and Coleus were conspicuous. The
group was edged with Panicum variegatum, which gave the whole a
finished appearance. From the same source came a magnificent basket
of Water Lilies.

The Countess of Brownlow sent some bunches of hardy cut flowers,
principally Alstrbmerias and Phloxes. Lord Hothfield and the Duke of
Wellington also sent some Sweet Peas and Carnations, and R. G. Har¬
greaves, Esq., some Pelargoniums, Allamandas, Stocks, and Carnations.
Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, had some double Begonia blooms
set up in bunches with Maidenhair Fern. The same firm also sent a
small collection of Cacti in pots, and J. C. Tasker, Esq., Middleton Hall,
Brentwood, had three boxes of cut Roses and some Cannas, the latter
being especially good. Colin Romaine, Esq., likewise sent four boxes of
Roses, which were admired, and the same may be said of the plants
arranged by H. G. Hubbuck, Esq. Some Carnations and Grapes came
from Richard Ovey, Esq.

_ Messrs. W. Cutbush & Sons, Highgate, sent a large collection of
miscellaneous plants all charmingly arranged. Amongst these were
Palms, Liliums, Vallota purpurea, Dracaenas, Oranges, and Crotons.
Messrs. W. Paul & Sons, Waltham Cross, also sent a collection of plants
and hardy flowers. A group of stove and greenhouse plants came from
N. L. Cohen, Esq., and Mrs. J. Butcher, St. Swithen Lane, E.C., had

some beautiful bouquets. Leonard Noble, Esq., sent plants and cut
flowers, and S. B. Boulton, Esq., a large collection of stove and green¬
house plants and cut flowers. Ludwig Monde, Esq., had a group of
Fuchsias, Palms, Coleuses, and other plants, and J. L. Firbank, Esq.,
some good Carnations in pots. T. Dixon Galpin, Esq., had plants in
pots, and the Duke of Norfolk some cut flowers. E. N. Buxton, Esq.,
sent a group of stove and greenhouse plants. Mr. J. Douglas, Great
Gearies, Ilford, had some Fancy and Show Carnations, as also had Mr.
C. Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough. H. H. Marks, Esq., sent a small
group of plants and some baskets of flowers. Mr. E. A. Holmes,
Frampton Park Nurseries, Hackney, staged a group of plants, and Mr.
J. R. Chard, Stoke Newington, had some table" decorations. Messrs. J.
Cheal & Sons, Crawley, sent a collection of hardy flowers, and Lady
Henry Somerset some cut Roses. A group of plants was also sent
from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Regent’s Park. Prizes were awarded
for miscellaneous exhibits staged by amateurs.

WORKSOP.— July 13th.

It is not at all unlikely that the British public, or such portion of
it as attended the floral display at Worksop on Thursday last, got some¬
what confused over the Worksop Rose and Horticultural Society’s Show
of the National Rose Society, held in conjunction with each other as they
were ; indeed, it was clear from the remarks of many that they did not
grasp the distinction betwe3n the two. That, however, was not of any
great consequence so long as they were satisfied with the dual display,
and of that there need be little doubt. A certain reporter, however,
experienced a slight shock when on going'to deal with one show he found
two awaiting his attention. The fulness with which the “ National ”
had to be treated precluded a lengthy account of the local Exhibition, but
some features of it were too good to be passed over in silence, notably
the fruit from Osberton and Clumber, which spoke volumes for the skill
of Messrs. Wood and Slade. The former’s Grapes were magnificent. The
groups, too, were much in advance of what we have in the south,
particularly Mr. Webb’s.

Taking the plants first, Mr. Slade, gardener to the Duke of New¬
castle, Clumber, won with table material ; Mr. Wood, gardener to
F. Foljambe, Esq., Osberton, second, both having clean and healthy
plants. Mr. Slade was also first for Begonias, Mr. Morris, Worksop,
following. The Clumber gardener had some beautiful Gloxinias and
defeated Mr. Morris very easily, also showing Lilium auratum extremely
well. Mr. Wood won with stove and greenhouse flowers, his Anthuriums
being very fine ; Mr. Slade was second. Fuchsias were rather poor, and
Petunias hardly call for comment, Mr. Stewart of Carlton winning with
them. The groups were extremely attractive, the first prize one,
arranged by Mr. A. Webb, Kelham, Newark, displaying marked
originality of treatment, the sloping bank arrangement so dear to
southern exhibitors being departed from in favour of a parallelogram
with four small corner mounds and a large central one, the groundwork
being formed of moss and Selaginella. There was abundance of healthy
flowering and foliage plants tastefully arranged in the groups. Mr.
Horton, gardener to the Duke of Portland, Welbeck, was second, also
with a charming arrangement, but it was too light, Grasses, Palms,
and slender Crotons being too liberally employed. It is praiseworthy to
avoid overloading a group with flowers, but Mr. Horton had gone to the
other extreme. Mr. Slade was third, his group also having too much
foliage, but it was heavier than the other. The plants composing it
were healthy and clean. Messrs. Fisher, Son, & Sibray had a beautiful
miscellaneous group not for competition.

Cut flowers were largely composed of children’s bouquets and
similar exhibits, but herbaceous flowers were extremely well shown by
Mr. Mallender, gardener to Mrs. Mellish, Hodsock Priory, who had
Galega oSicinalis, Lilium Thunbergianum sanguineum, and L. excelsum
very good. W. H. Mason, Esq., Retford, was second, and Mrs. Alderson,
Worksop, third.

Mr. J. H. Wilson had some charming Sweet Peas and Carnations.
The latter were extremely good, embracing his yellow ground fancy
Mrs. Wilson, and many standard sorts. Messrs. J. R. Pearson & Sons,
Chilwell, exhibited their beautiful dark velvety crimson Gloxinia
The Beacon, and some attractive floral decorations. One bouquet of
Mrs. Reynolds Hole Carnation and bronzy Croton leaves was unique
and pleasing to a degree. Messrs. E. D. Shuttleworth & Co. had one of
the most effective displays in the Show, consisting of some very fine
Roses and hardy flowers, also a collection of healthy foliage plants.
The Shireoaks Market Garden Co. had a splendid display of Stocks, the
plants being admirably grown, and the strain first rate.

Fruit was exceptionally fine. Mr. Wood had some grand produce in
the class for a collection, his Grapes, both black and white, being
magnificent, while his Pine, Cherries, and Melon were very good. Mr.
Slade was second with fair Grapes, excellent Peaches, good Cherries, and
a capital Melon. Mr. Webb was third, his Peaches, Nectarines, and
Figs being very good indeed. Mr. Slade won with black Grapes, having
finely coloured clusters. Mr. Wood was second, and Mr. Rose, Kirk-
lington Hall, third. Mr. Wood had splendid white Grapes, defeating
Messrs. Slade and Preston easily. Mr. Wood won in two other Grape
classes, and the character of his bunches showed him to be a grower far
above the average. He was first for a Melon, and Mr. Slade second.
The latter beat him with Peaches, but was defeated in turn with
Nectarines. Mr. Allen, gardener to T. Huntsman, Esq., was first for
Strawberries, and Mr. Mallender second, while for Cherries Mr. Slade
won, and Mr. Mallender was again second. Hardy fruit was abundant
and good. Mr. Joseph Stanley won with Raspberries, and Mr. F. Clark

July 20, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

63

with both light and dark Gooseberries ; minor prizes going to Messrs.
J. Hurst, R. Lee, T. Clifton, and A. Ryalls, The awards for Currants
went to Messrs. F. Clark, J. Stanley, T. Clifton, J. Darby, and R. Bram-
mer. The cottagers]also showed hardy fruit well.

There was an extensive display of vegetables. Mr. Slade was first
with a collection, his Cauliflowers, Potatoes, and Onions being excellent.
Mr. W. H. Mason was second, and Mr. J. Allen third. The former had
very good Peas and Beans. The Shireoaks Market Gardens Co. had a fine
dish of Hackwood Park Tomatoes, and were placed first, Mr. Slade being
second. The winners also had some very fine Tomatoes not for competi¬
tion. Mr. J. Doughty was first with Broad Beans and Mr. Stubbings
with French, while Mr. Howard was victorious with Cucumbers. Ex¬
cellent Cabbages and Lettuces were shown by Mr. M. Wood of Rayton,
and Mr. Garside was to the fore with Peas. First prizes for Potatoes
went to Messrs. Garside and H. Hewitt.

WOOD GREEN.— July 15th.

The annual Exhibition of the Wood Green and District Horticul¬
tural Society was held in the grounds attached to the Town Hall, Wood
Green, on Saturday, July 15th. There was a good display of plants and
cut flowers from private gardens as well as nurseries. Fruit and vege¬
tables were also fairly well represented in the respective classes, and the
same may be said of bouquets and floral decorations. A “ Rose Queen ”
procession and sports were held during the afternoon, and the arrange¬
ments were carried out in an efficient manner by Mr. Horace Bates, the
Hon. Secretary.

Some well-known metropolitan nurserymen made a good display of
flowers and plants. Mr. T. S. Ware, Tottenham, sent a large collection of
hardy flowers, amongst which Gaillardias, Phloxes, Delphiniums, Coreopsis,
and Poppies were noticeable. Messrs. G. Paul & Son, The Old Nurseries,
Cheshunt, also sent a large number of hardy flowers, comprising two good
boxes of Carnations, bright and fresh in appearance. Messrs. R. and
G. Cuthbert, Southgate, had a charming group of miscellaneous plants,
including Dracaenas, Liliums, Ferns, and Begonias. Messrs. H. Low
and Co., Bush Hill Park, Enfield, sent some cut Roses ; and Mr.
W. Bowers, The Vineries, Wood Green, had a group of Tomatoes in pots.
The plants were heavily laden with fruit. Messrs. Whellock and Whel-
lock. Wood Green, sent a large number of Roses and Carnations.
Messrs. W. Cutbush & Sons, Highgate, exhibited a large group of miscel¬
laneous plants and a stand of Mushroom spawn. Messrs. W. L. Lewis
and Co., Southgate, sent a group of Orchids, chiefly Cattleyas and
Odontoglossums. These were tastefully arranged with Ferns and other
plants.

Groups of plants in the competitive classes were fairly good, the best
in a special class coming from Mr. S. Card, gardener to W. Hollings¬
worth, Esq., Wood Green. Mr. W. Wilson, gardener to — Sydney, Esq.,
Bowes Park, was second, and Mr. J. Armstrong third. Mr. D. Slater,
gardener to F. 0. Field, Esq., East Finchley, was awarded an extra
prize for a group of plants. Mr. F. Page, Wood Green, was first for a
group of Ferns, Mr. F. V, Marment, Bowes Park, being second.
Specimen plants were very good, the best being staged by Mr. W.
VVilson, Bowes Park, and Mr. S. Card.

Considering the season and late date Roses were finely shown by
Mr. G. W. Cook, New Southgate. This gentleman, an amateur grower,
won several first prizes. Mr. J. Armstrong, gardener to John Allen, Esq.,
Southgate, likewise secured a first prize for twelve cut Roses. Mr. E. R.
Smith, Muswell Hill, and Mr. E. H. Gould, Bowes Park, were also among
the premier prizewinners for Roses. Mr. W. Rumsey, Joyning’s
Nursery, Waltham Cross, sent half a dozen boxes of beautiful Roses,
the flowers being fresh and bright.

ASCOT AND DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

By kind permission of the trustees of the Ascot Grand Stand a
Cottagers’ and Industrial Show was held on the 13th and 14th inst., in
connection with the above Society. The following nurserymen exhibited,
not for competition ; — Messrs. Sutton & Sons of Reading, a fine collec¬
tion of Gloxinias, with Stocks, Carnations, and hardy annuals. Messrs.
J. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, sent two boxes of Begonias, containing
single and double blooms. Messrs. W. Cutbush & Son a good display of
Carnations and Pinks, also hardy herbaceous flowers. Mrs. Phippen of
Reading, a very attractive group of decorative plants, floral crosses, and
a bouquet of Carnations, which was much admired. Messrs. J. Standish
and Co. filled the end of the Rotunda with Palms, Acers, &c. Mrs. S. F.
Ponton of Wokingham had Cucumbers and Tomatoes. Attractive groups
of plants were sent by local gentlemen. The one arranged by Mr.
Thorne, gardener to Major Joicey, of Sunningdale Park, was highly
admired, as was a fine bank of Begonias from Sir William Farmer
(gardener, Mr. Hataway). E. Hamilton, Esq., The Charters (gardener,
Mr. Cole) and Mr. Lane, King’s Ride, furnished the centre of the tables
with good Crotons, Caladiums, and other plants. The cottagers’ exhibits
were of very good quality, but not so numerous as in other years.
Prizes were also given for well kept gardens. The Committee have
plenty of funds and a charming place to hold a show. In a neighbour¬
hood containing good gardens it is a pity they do not offer prizes for
amateurs at summer shows. — A Visitor.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

George Bunyard & Co., The Old Nurseries, Maidstone. — Roses, Rulhs,
and Straieierries.

J. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, S.E. — General Plant Catalogue.

Ant. Roozen & Son, Overveen, Haarlem, Holland.— and Cape
Bulbs.

CARNATION AND PICOTEE UNION.

The annual Exhibition held in connection with the Carnation and
Picotee Union took place on Tuesday last in the gardens of Mr. E. S.
Dodwell, Stanley Road, Oxford. As might have been expected the
northern growers were to the fore, their blooms being just at the summit
of their beauty, while those of the more southern men have been over
for two and in many cases three weeks. Taken as a whole the Exhibi¬
tion was an unqualified success, the flowers being of perfect form and
substance, if slightly lacking the size it is now customary to see amongst
them. High praise must be accorded to Mr. Dodwell and the Com¬
mittee for the admirable manner in which the Show was conducted.
The occasion of this Exhibition bringing together so many friends was
considered a fitting one for presenting to Mr. and Mrs. Dodwell on the
happy attainment of their golden wedding, a silver tea and coffee
service and salver, which had been subscribed for by over 200 of the
veteran florist’s friends. With the above was also given a testimonial
which had been signed for by the numerous subscribers.

The following is a copy of the testimonial presented to Mr. and
Mrs. Dodwell : — “ Very many friends throughout the kingdom as well
as abroad desire upon the occurrence of the fiftieth anniversary of your
wedding day to offer you their warm congratulations on this memorable
and happy occasion, and to add their earnest hope that, surrounded by
those you love and who so dearly love you, much length of days may
yet be granted to you. They gladly avail themselves of this oppor¬
tunity to give expression to the feelings of respect and admiration with
which they have long watched Mr. Dodwell’s floricuitural work, and to
record their sense of his unvarying kindness and courtesy among his
fellow florists. They wish, then, as a mark of their regard, and of the
gratification they feel that you have been permitted to reach this crown¬
ing point of your wedded life, to beg your acceptance of the accom¬
panying tea and coffee service and salver — the produce of many
subscriptions purposely limited in amount — assuring you that it is a
souvenir of widely felt loving regard, and equally assured that you will
find in that feeling the chief value of this gift.”

The Rev. Mr. Collier made an excellent speech in making the pre¬
sentation. Mr. Dodwell expressed thanks and gratitude on behalf of
himself and Mrs. Dodwell to their friends for this unanimous proof of
their real regard. Many speeches were made by friends at the luncheon,
after which the presentation took place. The following ladies and
gentlemen were present, amongst others, to assist Mr. Alderman Buckeli
in the chair — The Rev. C. P. Brickwell, Rev. Mr. Scott, Rev. Mr. Collier,
Rev. Mr. Gibbs, Mr. and Mrs. E. S. Dodwell, Mr. Alfred, Mr. Arthur,
and Mr. Fred Dodwell, and other members of the family. Dr. Guinness
and Messrs. Ranger Johnson, T. E. Henwood, Chas. Phillips, Arthur
Brown, Robt. Sydenham, Wm. Bacon, Wm. Harding, J. S. Hedderley,
J. Whitham, Tom Lord, J. Wynne Ffoulkes, C. H. Herbert, Thos. Anstiss,
and Mr. and Mrs. J. Hill. The company numbered over one hundred in
all. Let us hope that on the occasion of Mr. and Mrs. Dodwell’a
diamond wedding such a meeting of friends may again take place.
Mr. Dodwell has worked hard in the interests of horticulture generally,
and has thus gained many personal friends and the high approbation
of many gentlemen who have never yet met him. We append the
names of the principal prizewinners, also those of the varieties
exhibited in the leading stands.

In the class for twelve flake or bizarre Carnations, in distinct varie¬
ties, Mr. Tom Lord, Todmorden, was an excellent first, staging blooms
of Bruce Findlay, Master Fred, Duke of York, Gordon Lewis, Thaddeus,
Admiral Curzon, two seedlings, George, Sportsman, J. D. Hextall, and
Robert Houlgrave in magnificent condition. Mr. J. Whitham was a
very close second ; Mr. Robert Sydenham a creditable third ; Messrs.
Thomson & Co. fourth ; Mr. Geo. Chaundy fifth ; Mr. A. K. Brown sixth ;
and Mr. W. Read, gardener to Mr. E. S. Dodwell, who in ordinary
seasons is usually found much nearer the top of the tree, seventh. Mr.
J. Edwards took the premier position in the class for six flakes and
bizarres, dissimilar, exhibiting fine blooms of Master Fred, two seedlings,
Teddy, Sportsman, and Guardsman. Mr. E. Shaw was a good second ;
Mr. J. S. Hedderley third ; Mr. C. Phillips fourth ; Mr. A. Medhurst
fifth ; Mr. Wm. Bacon sixth ; and Thos. Anstiss seventh.

For twelve white ground Picotees, in distinct varieties, Messrs.
Thomson & Co. were first, showing in fine form Mrs. Sharp, Amelia,
Nellie, Dr. Epps, Mrs. Chancellor, Thomas William, Little Phil, Zerlina,
Campanini, Mrs. Payne, Lady Louisa, and Mrs. Gorton. The flowers in
this stand were, with scarcely an exception, fresh and bright. The
second prize was awarded to Mr. Robt. Sydenham for a fine stand, Mr.
J, Whitham being third, Mr. Tom Lord fourth, Mr. A. R. Brown fifth,
Mr. J. Edwards sixth, Mr. E. Shaw seventh, and Mr. Chas. Phillips
eighth. Mr. A. W. Jones staged some beautiful blooms in the class for
six white ground Picotee Carnations. The stand included Mrs. Payne,
Nellie, Favourite, Thos. William, Brunette, and Campernini. Mr. J. B.
Sharp was second, Mr. J. S. Hedderley third, Mr. Wm. Bacon fourth,
Mr. Medhurst fifth, and Mr. Anstiss sixth. The competition was keen
in this class, the flowers being remarkable for their perfect colouration
and form.

For twelve Carnations, either seifs, fancies, or yellow grounds, in
distinct varieties, Mr. Robert Sydenham wai deservedly awarded the
first prize. The exhibit included Romulus, Tournament, A. W. Jones,
Gladys, Stadtrath Bail, Dodwell’s 167, Germania, Janira, Victory, Mrs.
Robert Sydenham, Mrs. Jameson, and Brockhaus. The second place
w'as taken by Messrs. Thomson & Co. with a fine exhibit, Mr. George
Chaundy being third, Mr. A. R. Brown fourth, Mr. W. Read, gardener

64

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 20, 1893.

to Mr. Dodwell, fifth ; Mr. J. Walker, Thame, sixth ; Mr. Thos. Anstiss
seventh, and Mr. C. Phillips eighth.

For six Carnations, either seifs, fancies, or yellow grounds, dissimilar,
Mr. W. Spencer was accorded the premier position, staging beautiful
flowers of Mrs. Robert Sydenham, Schlieben, Theodore, Madame Van
Houtte, Stadtrath Bail, and Vandyck. Mr. Chas. Harden was a very
good second ; Mr. J. S. Hedderley, third; Mr. E. Shaw, fourth ; Mr. N.
Medhurst, fifth; Mr. Chas. Henwood, sixth; Mr. J. Edwards, seventh;
and Mr. Wm; Bacon, ninth. Mr. W. Read was placed first in the class
for six blooms of the Kilmory yellow ground seedlings in not less than
three dissimilar varieties. This stand included perfect examples of
Tournament, Queen of Hearts, Nora, Tournament, Sport, Nosula, and
Nancy. Mr. A. Medhurst was second ; Mr. Geo. Chaundy, third ; Mr.
Thos. Anstiss, fourth ; and Mr. Wm. Bacon, fifth.

Mr. A. W. Jones was accorded the first place in the class for six
yellow ground blooms, any raiser’s variety, with Stadtrath Bail, Almira,
Countess of Jersey, Germania, Mrs. Robt. Sydenham, and Atalanta. The
second prize was awarded to Messrs. Thomson & Co., Mr. Wm. Reid
being third, Mr. Chas. Phillips fourth, Mr. Chas. Harden fifth, Mr. T. E.
Henwood sixth, Mr. A. R. Brown seventh, Mr. J. S. Hedderley eighth,
Mr. J. P. Sharp ninth.

The premier blooms in the Exhibition were Master Fred, a scarlet
bizarre exhibited by Mr. Tom Lord ; Germania, yellow self from
Mr. A. W. Jones ; Dodwell’s 1528 fancy Carnation, shown by Mr. Wm.
Read ; white ground Picotee Little Phil, staged by Mr. J. Whitham,
and yellow ground Picotee Mrs. Robt. Sydenham, exhibited by Mr.
Spencer.

Certificates were awarded for the following blooms : — Arline, pink
and purple bizarre, magnificent flowers ; Thaddens, crimson bizarre of
great merit ; Bruce Findlay, a pink and purple bizarre of superb form;
Duke of York, a beautiful scarlet bizarre, all of which were staged by
Mr. Tom Lord ; Feron,a fine purple flake, exhibited by Mr. J. Whitham ;
and Mrs. Anstiss, a rich apricot-coloured self of great substance and
good form, shown by Mr. Anstiss. It being very late when our reporter
reached Oxford, it was found impossible to get a full list of the prizes,
as some of the blooms had been removed.

WOKK.foi\.theWEEK..

FRUIT FORCING.

Vines. — Earliest House. — Thoroughly ripened wood and well
nourished properly developed buds are of primary importance in
securing a crop of Grapes the following season. The wood is generally
well ripened in the early houses, for the Vines as a rule are not over-
vigorous, and the dry atmosphere maintained during the ripening of the
Grapes tends to mature the foliage, buds, and wood. This is sometimes
fatal to the principal leaves, or those corresponding to the pruning buds
by encouraging red spider, and the consequence is the Vines go to rest
early and start into growth in September, when they should be com¬
pletely at rest. When the Vines lose the lower leaves on the bearing
shoots growth should be encouraged from the laterals, alike to stimulate
root action, appropriate the sap, and prevent premature resting. Where
the Vines retain the foliage to the base of the bearing shoots — termed
laterals — it will be necessary to maintain a dry atmosphere to thoroughly
ripen the wood, but it will not be needful to employ artificial heat.
Ventilate fully, keeping all laterals and late growths stopped, and aim
at complete rest by having the border cool and moderately dry. The
inside borders may require watering, but avoid making the soil very
wet. Outside borders may need covering with dry straw or bracken in
order to throw off heavy rains, for a too moist condition of the soil tends
to late growth. Where the Vines are in an unsatisfactory condition
prepare for lifting at an early date, getting fresh loam and clean
drainage handy, so that the work can be quickly performed when
started. It is desirable to lift the roots and lay them in fresh soil near
the surface whilst there is foliage on the Vines, but the leaves corre¬
sponding to the pruning buds must be maturing, and the lateral growths
will favour speedy root action. Work of this character ought not to be
delayed beyond August in the case of Vines that are to be started early
in December, which will need pruning by the middle of September or a
little later.

Vines for Early Forcing. — When it is contemplated to start Vines
early that have hitherto not been so subjected, it will be necessary as
soon as the crop is oflE to thoroughly cleanse them by syringing or the
application of an insecticide. If there is any doubt about the maturity
of the wood and the plumpness of the budg it will be desirable to
employ fire heat in the daytime to maintain a temperature of 70® to 75°
with moderate ventilation, and turn the heat off at night to allow the
pipes to cool. This, with a thorough circulation of air, will soon cause
the wood to harden and the buds to plump, inducing rest. When the
Vines have the wood ripe and the buds plump they will only require
full ventilation day and night.

Vines in Pots for Very Early Forcing. — When these are to be
started early in November to afford ripe Grapes during March or

April the wood should now be thoroughly ripened and the buds plumped.
If not the house may be kept rather warmer by day, say 70° to 75°
artificially and 80° to 85° with sun heat, closing early so as to raise the
temperature to 90° or 95°, and throw the ventilators open at night.
Afford water or liquid manure in sufficient quantity to prevent flagging,
and expose the foliage to all the light possible. Laterals must be kept
well in check, leaving no more than are absolutely essential to appro¬
priate any excess of sap and so prevent the principal buds being started.
When the wood is brown and hard and the buds are prominent the Vines
should be removed to a situation outdoors, standing the pots on slates or
boards in front of a south wall or fence. Secure the canes to avoid
damage from wind, and only give water to prevent the foliage falling
prematurely. In wet weather the pots may be laid on their sides or some
waterproof material be employed over them. When the main leaves
turn yellow commence reducing the laterals, and prune when the leaves
are all off, the laterals being cut off close and the canes shortened to
the length required. This done place them in any cool, airy, dry place
until required for forcing. Keep moderately dry at the roots, and
exclude frost.

Successional Vines Freed of their Cro^s. — If there be any red
spider thoroughly cleanse the Vines by means of water from a syringe
or engine, and repeat occasionally. Mealy bug and scale should be
combatted with petroleum. It is easiest applied in emulsion form, but
this coats the glass with soapy matter, which is not easy to get off once it
hardens. There is no objection to pure petroleum and water, the thing
is to keep it well mixed whilst it is being applied. This may be done
by one person syringing into the watering-can, whilst another applies it
to the Vines forcibly so as to well coat every part of them and
house with the mixture — a wineglassful of petroleum to 4 gallons of
water. This repeated two or three times at intervals of a few days is an
effectual remedy. Keep the laterals within reasonable limits. If the
Vines are vigorous, and the wood not ripening well, keep the house
rather dry, and ventilate fully at night, but turn on the heat by day,
and ventilate moderately. This will tend to the maturity of the wood
and buds. Vigorous Vines must not be stopped too closely or the
principal buds may be started into growth by an excess of sap, and they
may be kept without water until the foliage becomes a little limp.
Vines, on the other hand, that are enfeebled by continued cropping
should be encouraged to make growth by applying liquid manure to the
border. Ventilate the house freely day and night, for it is mainly a
question of evaporation in securing thoroughly ripened wood.

Grapes Ripening. — Whilst colouring most Grapes swell considerably,
and there must not be any deficiency of moisture in the border. Give,
therefore, a good supply of water or liquid manure, especially the latter,
where the Vines are heavily cropped, for though it may not materially
influence the Grapes it will contribute to the general health of the
Vines, and by giving them plenty of time the erop may finish satisfac¬
torily. Hastening heavily burdened Vines and a deficiency of nourish¬
ment is almost sure to culminate in defective colour in the Grapes. A
good rest at night in a temperature of 60° to 65° with air is a great
help to Vines taxed to the utmost by a heavy crop. Allow the laterals
to extend if possible. A moderate amount of air moisture is essential
to the health of the Vines, sprinkling the floor in the morning
and afternoon in bright weather, or occasionally, and no ill effects
will follow, provided a circulation of rather warm air is secured
This is absolutely essential to avoid spot in Muscat of Alexandria and
some other tender skinned Grapes, therefore admit air constantly enough
with a gentle warmth in the hot- water pipes to insure a circulation and
prevent the deposition of moiscure on the berries.

Melons. — Stopping and Removing Groioths. — When the fruit is
swelled to the size of an egg, the laterals should be kept pinched to one
leaf, and if this results in too much foliage, so that the main leaves are
crowded or shaded, thinning must be resorted to. This should be done a
little at a time, for removing a large quantity of foliage at once gives a
check to the fruit swelling. Instead of distant manipulation, the plants
should be gone over once a week at least, and in the case of vigorous
plants twice, for stopping and the removal of superfluous shoots, never
allowing the principal leaves to be crowded, but fully exposed to light
and air.

Watering. — Never allow the plants to lack moisture at the roots, for
when water is withheld until the foliage flags a check has been given,
and the effect is seen in their feeble aftergrowth, from which they
seldom recover and often collapse, or the crop ripens prematurely and
is poor in flavour. The great point is not to allow flagging, and yet
not to give water until the soil is becoming so dry as to be insufficiently
moist for the support of the plants, when a thorough supply should
be given. Plants swelling their fruits will need water or liquid
manure at least once a week. When setting and ripening it will
suffice to just keep the foliage from flagging, and if watering becomes
necessary it should be given to these in frames without wetting the
foliage more than can be helped. A poor growth is not good either for
setting or the ripening of the fruit, but a drier condition of the soil is
desirable at those times than when the fruit is swelling.

Syringing the Plants. — When the flowers are advanced for expan¬
sion withhold water from the foliage, also when the fruit is ripening,
as this is the chief cause of the fruit cracking. At the time of
setting and ripening in frames and pits the atmosphere can hardly be
kept too dry ; in bouses moisture must not be entirely withheld at those
periods, but surfaces should be damped in the morning and afternoon
in bright weather. When the fruit is swelling syringe well at closing
time, and if morning syringing is practised it should be done early.

July 20, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

65

Plants in frames should be sprinkled at closing time during the swelling
of the fruit, but on fine days only, being careful to keep the water
from the neck or collar of the plants.

Ventilating. — Daring the setting and ripening of the fruit admit air
freely, leaving a little on constantly to prevent the deposition of
moisture on the blossoms or fruits through the night. Give more venti¬
lation early in the morning of bright days, always when the temperature
has advanced to 75°, and gradually increase it with the advancing heat,
keeping through the day at 80° to 90°, and closing sufficiently early to
rise to 90°, 95° or 100°, and before nightfall admit a chink of air at the
top of the house or the back of the frame. This is particularly necessary
in closely fitting and glazed structures, in badly constructed houses night
ventilation may be dispensed with.

Temperature. — Resource will only need to be had to fire heat in
houses and to linings for frames in dull cold periods, then a little
artificial heat is desirable to maintain a buoyant atmosphere when the
blossoms are setting and the fruit is ripening, otherwise the temperature
will be ruled at this season by external influences. A night temperature
of 65° and 70° to 75° by day must be given to plants in houses.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

Carnations. — If not already done a mulching of old Mushroom-bed
manure or leaf soil should be given Carnations after very lightly
loosening the surface, and giving a good watering. This will serve to
prolong the display considerably. The Margaret Carnations, if raised
moderately early and duly planted out, will flower strongly in August or
September, though not if they are topped ; give these also the benefit of
a mulch.

Propagating- Carnations. — If the smaller side shoots are slipped
off now these will strike quite as readily as Pinks in a frame or hand-
lights placed at the foot of a north wall or fence. In warm moist
localities bottom heat may be dispensed with, but a very slight hotbed
is of good assistance. Pack enough material inside the frames to raise
about 4 inches of loamy gritty soil well up to the light, and face over
with sharp sand. Little or no trimming is required by short slips, but
longer cuttings or any upwards of 4 inches in length should be shortened,
not however, by cutting with a knife, the better plan being to pull them
cleanly apart at a joint. Fix them firmly in the soil, give a gentls
watering, and keep close and shaded from what bright sunshine reaches
the frame till rooted.

Saving Pink Seed. — Seed if ripe may be either stored till next
spring, or else be sown at once. When quite new yet properly ripened
it germinates quickly either on a well prepared border or in boxes set in
a cool shady position. If not sown very thickly neat little plants will
be formed before the winter arrives, those in boxes being kept in cool
frames. Mrs. Sinkins, and varieties raised from that robust popular
form, come quite true from seed, and young plants partaking somewhat
of a perpetual flowering character are more likely to flower the same
season they are planted out than are the more delicate varieties.

Hollyhocks. — Red spider can be destroyed by mixing a handful
of flowers of sulphur into a paste and then mix it with two gallons of
clear water, and with a syringe thoroughly wet both the under and
upper surface of the leaves. Black fly is also unusually prevalent on
Hollyhocks, and this may be got rid ot by means of tobacco powder or
strong snuff, puffing this well over the under side of the leaves. No
side shoots should be allowed to grow on any of the plants. They
ought to be kept well supplied with moisture at the roots, and be given
a mulching of short manure. If leaf buds are found at the axils of the
leaves of any side shoots removed, the latter may be cut into short
lengths, placed singly in small pots, and rooted in a gentle but not very
moist heat. All that develop into plants should be shifted into larger
pots before they become much root-bound.

Dahlias. — Old stools push up very many more shoots than should
be left to grow, much better results following upon the practice of
confining the plants to a single stem, or at the most two stems. These
being kept properly secured to a strong stake, will branch strongly and
produce either a few extra fine blooms for exhibition purposes, or an
abundance of ordinary good flowers. If the former are desired about
four stakes should be placed to each plant, and some of the best placed
branches be fastened to these, the rest being cut away or better still
early pinched out. Dahlias require abundance of moisture at the roots,
a good mulch of strawy litter further serving to keep the ground cool
and moist.

Gladioli. — Stakes should be placed to these before the spikes
become heavy, frequent syringings and waterings also being necessary
if fine spikes and large flowers are desired. In order to have the spikes
for exhibition with the flowers well together and all facing one way
they ought to be enclosed in a V-shaped trough, made by nailing two
long thin pieces of board about 4 inches wide to a strong stake. With
the aid of these troughs it will also be an easy matter to shade the
lower flowers with newspaper, with a view to keep them fresh and of
good colour to match the upper flowers.

PLANT HOUSES.

Hpacrls. — Give these full sunshine and abundance of air, so that
their wood will become thoroughly ripened, which is necessary to insure
abundance of flowers. Also give a sufficient supply of water at their
roots, or the lower foliage will soon turn yellow and fall. On the other
hand do not allow the soil to become saturated by heavy rains. Old
lights that can be placed over them when necessary is all the protection
they need. E’-ica hyemalis may have the same treatment.

Kalosanttaes. — Plants that have flowered should be cut close back
and be placed in a frame until they break into growth, after which keep
perfectly cool and wintered on a shelf in the greenhouse. Young
shoots may be inserted singly or four or flve together in 5-inch pots, and
if put in gentle warmth the cuttings root quickly. If they are to flower
the following season they ought to be hardened when rooted, and either
placed outside or on a shelf in the greenhouse. The growths should be
well ripened, the object is to prevent them starting again into growth. If
they make fresh growth while being rooted flowers need not be looked for
until the plants have enjoyed one clear season’s growth. Where an
increase of stock is needed the stems may be cut into lengths, for these
root quickly and break freely into growth.

French and Fancy Pelargoniums. — Cuttings that are rooted for
early flowering should be placed into small pots at once and stood in
frames until they start into growth. The points of the plants ought to
be removed if not done when the cuttings were inserted. Cuttings for
the main stock of young plants for another year should be inserted at
once. They will root with freedom if put in sandy soil outside. We
find this the easiest and most certain method of propagating these plants.
Do not insert mere flower stems, older portions of the plant root freely
and make much better plants. Plants that have been ripening on the
walks for a few weeks may be cut close back and placed in a frame until
they break into growth. Keep the frame moderately close and syringe
the plants twice daily until they commence to grow, when the old soil
may be shaken from their roots, and repot. Keep close for a time until
root action has commenced, when the plants should be grown perfectly
Gool.

Zonal Pelargoniums. — Plants that are growing outside and are
intended for autumn and winter flowering should have the flower trusses
removed as they appear and any shoots stopped that are taking the lead.
If the pots are well filled with roots give weak stimulants every time
they need water, or artificial manure may be given to the surface of the
soil at intervals of a fortnight. The plants should be fully exposed to
the sun, and firm sturdy growth must be encouraged. Plants that have
been flowering inside and have grown leggy may be cut back. If started
in frames and grown under glass these will make excellent flowering
plants during the winter. The cuttings from these plants may be
inserted in boxes, or in borders outside, and when rooted placed into
small pots. These will flower in 5-inch pots during the early spring
months. Cuttings that are rooted may be placed into 3-inch pots, and if
stood outside when established will flower profusely under glass
during the declining months of the year. The points of these plants
may be removed, and then they should be allowed to grow on without
further pinching.

Solanums. — Plants that have set a good crop of berries should be
watered freely. If once they are allowed to become dry the foliage will
turn yellow and the beauty of the plants will be destroyed. Soot water
assists them wonderfully and imparts to the foliage a fine dark hue.
These plants may be plunged outside in ashes. The syringe should be
used freely to keep the foliage free from red spider.

IS

m BEE-KEEPBR.

APIARIAN NOTES.

At THE Moors.

As much information regarding the management of bees is
gleaned at the moors, I will, according to my custom in previous
years, record what comes under my observation. Owing to the
continued heat and dry weather there is the most profuse bloom
on the Heather that I have ever witnessed.

On July 1st I took one prime swarm, an old Punic stock not rid
of its surplus queens, and a number of nuclei. Owing to some
oversight or an accident on the way, there was a small opening in
one of the boxes sufficient for bees to escape, but wherever we
were they returned to the box, even when moving along. When
discovered of course I stopped the hole, shutting out two bees.
The day was fine and warm, and on my return, three hours after¬
wards, the escaped bees met me at the place they were shut out,
accompanying me to the station, a distance of one and a half mile.
Had I travelled the other way the bees would I have no doubt
found their hive. The moment the old stock was opened, although
it had previously swarmed and been divided into eight, it threw
off another swarm, and I have reasons for believing it was not
the last one. The prime swarm was a strong one, and only a
week old. Although subjected to rough treatment in the
conveyance, no combs were broken. Some of the Punic surplus
queens entered this hive, and in eight days after it was set down
it swarmed at a distance of two miles, and was hived in a tool-box
upon the railway. In the course of a week the nuclei filled their
boxes with combs, and the prime swarm increased in weight
20 lbs., while all the queens were fertilised, and every available
cell filled with eggs and larvae a few days after.

On July 11th we started in the morning with sixty hives.

66

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 20, 1893.

and owing to the rough roads I expected the whole of
them would be spoiled, but not a bee was lost, nor a comb
broken, after a journey of fifty miles by road and rail. Six men
managed the whole, and in two hours after their arrival at the

station, which is two miles from their destination, the work was

completed. Taking the number and other things connected with
them into consideration it will be easily seen there is no other
hive extant that could be set down with similar safety and

expedition. If there were any reliance in the advice to give

timeous room to prevent swarming, and the returning of after
swarms for the same purpose, it would be a boon to bee-keepers.
Three hives, with a plurality of queens piping for four weeks,
swarmed a day after they were set down. Notes from the moors
will be continued next week. — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

•^•All correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Verses (jCastanea). — We are unable to inform you in what book
the verses you send are to be found, and we have not space for their
insertion in our columns.

Biennials and Perennials from Seed (^Reader'). — You may sow

at once in light soil in the open ground, any or all kinds of which seed
is offered in catalogues, but there should not be a day’s unnecessary
delay. Your letter only arriving as our pages were being made up for
press we cannot possibly do more than give this brief reply to your
question.

Sbowlngr Annuals (^Constant Reader'). — When prizes are offered
for three annuals schedules usually say they must be distinct kinds. In
that case there must be no more than three, and the Sweet Scabious
may be one of them in one colour. Neither a Dahlia nor a Gladiolus
would be admissible in such a class for they are not annuals. Annuals
are plants which are raised from seed, flower, and die, root and branch,
the same season.

Criticism (& J. A.). — By all means exercise your critical intelli¬
gence to any extent so long as it affords you pleasure. We do not
intend to discuss the unending theme of market prices, nor to alter
them to meet diverse individual views. The measures we have recom¬
mended will prevent, do prevent, and have prevented, the Tomato disease.
We have grown Tomatoes for thirty years, and never once failed in
having good crops from clean plants, and we do not expect to fail
in the future.

Sowlngr Begonia Seed (^Begonia). — Probably the best plan
would be to sow the seeds very thinly in boxes or large pans, so that
the seedlings would have room to grow undisturbed as long as they
could be kept growing, and winter the tubers in the soil in which they
grew until they showed signs of growth in the spring. Under proper
management they would make good flowering plants next year. Cer¬
tainly transfer the pollen of the fringed single variety as you propose.
You may not, however, succeed in your object the first year of the
seedlings flowering,

Crlnum capense QG. A.). — This plant is hardy in sheltered posi¬
tions, and we have never seen such large floriferous clamps as in the
deep rich soil of a south border, the plants mulched and watered in the
summer, a.nd the ground thickly covered with leaves in winter to prevent
injury by frost. The bulbs are usually safe when planted 6 or 8 inches
deep and have a little surface protection. The plants do not always
succeed in dry conservatories, in which they are' often some distance
from the glass, and considerably shaded. With healthy root action in
sweet loamy soil, and abundance of light and air, the leaves are not
yellow, but green. The plants enjoy root moisture in summer, but not
stagnant soil, and a sunny position. In the autumn the water supply
may be reduced and the plants exposed to all the sun possible for
ripening the growth and storing nutrient matter in the bulbs. They
succeed admirably in cool frames during the period of growth, or in
light greenhouses, with plenty of air. The soil should be kept dryish.

not dust dry, in the winter. The root action of your plant may be
defective, and the position it occupies not quite suitable.

Petrsea volubllls (_Toung Gardener). — The history of Petraaa
volubilis is brief but interesting in some degree. It was first discovered
by Houston at Vera Cruz, but has also been found at Martinique and
elsewhere. On the authority of Alton’s “ Hortus Kewensis ” it seems
that seeds were first sent to the Chelsea Botanic Garden before 1733,
but from these Miller states only two plants were raised, flowers not
being produced until 1802, when a specimen bloomed in Mr, Woodford’s
collection at Vauxhall. From this a coloured plate was prepared for
the “ Botanical Magazine ” (plate 628), but the variety there shown is
distinct from that you mention, the corolla lobes being larger, the calyx
lobes more narrow, and the colour a uniform purplish-lilac. Houston
named the plant in honour of Lord Eobert James Petre, who, it has
been said, was “ the worthiest of men, whose death was the greatest loss
that botany or gardening ever felt in this island.” A very large collec¬
tion of plants was formed by this nobleman, large stoves and conserva¬
tories being erected for the tropical species, while the outdoor collection
was also extremely large, the total number of individuals being said to
be about 219,925. The culture of the plant is easy. Given an ordinary
stove temperature, a good compost of turfy loam and peat, with a small
proportion of well decayed manure, and little difficulty will be ex¬
perienced in both growing and flowering the plant, providing it be
kept clear of insects, mealy bug being its especial enemy. Supply water
liberally when growth is advancing, syringing freely to keep the foliage
fresh and clean. It can be increased by layers, but the best way is to
graft young shoots upon pieces of the root in April or May, when if
treated like other root cuttings, placed in heat and shaded, young
vigorous plants can usually be readily obtained.

Crros Colman Grapes (Youngster). — The Grapes are a credit to
you ; but since you say you have “ never seen larger and would like to
do so,” we show you a good sample as grown by Mr. J. Goodacre, of

Fig. 11.— gros colman grape.

Elvaston. The berry depicted in the engraving, fig. 11 was taken
from a bunch that weighed 7 lbs., but contained only sixty-eight berries.
Keep on striving, and you will excel as a Grape grower.

Ivy on Trees (A. D. IF.). — There is no question but that Ivy is
injurious to trees against which it grows, as is evidenced by the
diminished vigour of the trees as compared with those that are not
mantled with Ivy ; but there is no disputing the fact that when trees
have been long and so much covered with it as to be very much en¬
feebled thereby, that the removal of the Ivy acts prejudicially by
exposing the long-protected bark to the direct influence of the atmo¬
sphere. Ivy ought never to be allowed to grow on trees that are
intended for profit, but should be cut or removed before it has made
much headway. Trees covered with Ivy in a young state will never
make profitable timber, and aged trees are better felled when covered
with it, unless it be desired to retain them as ornaments.

Muscat of Alexandria Vine Beaves Yellow (B. A.). — The

leaf has the peculiar appearance incidental to scorching in this variety.
It is probably caused by excessive evaporation from foliage subjected
to a close and moist atmosphere during the night and early part of the
day. Admit a little air at night if the house is closely glazed, and in
all cases increase or give ventilation in the morning by the time the
sun acts upon the house, so as to dissipate the moisture and allow the
evaporation from the leaves to go on correspondingly with the increasing
temperature. As for the wireworms, they are best trapped. Pieces of
turf about 4 inches square inserted in the border about 1 foot apart are
good traps, the turf being fresh— that is, with live grass and roots,
placing them a little below the surface, so that they may remain moist
and right side upwards. The wireworms feed on the roots, and by with¬
drawing the turf occasionally the pests may be caught. Carrots cut
into 2-iDch lengths and buried about an inch below the surface are also
good. A pointed stick may be thrust into each bait, so as to form a
handle, and by it the bait can be readily withdrawn at short intervals
and examined. The wireworms will be found feeding on the Carrot,
and may soon be cleared away. Lime water will not do any harm to
the Vines nor to the wireworms. The best plan is to catch and kill
them.

Jnly rj, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

09

sy^sc/^x f\ (,)

AN ANGLO-AMERICAN DAY.

z - X -

AS we in the old country are interested in the work and ways
horticultural of our kinsmen on the “ other side,” so do
our transatlantic friends and fellow workers seek to become
acquainted with the plans, methods, and intentions of cultivators
in the mother land. Those who had the privilege of attending
the luncheon at the Trentham Show last week will not soon
forget the splendid welcome given by some 200 Englishmen to
the American Consul ; neither will they forget his earnest,
eloquent, responsive speech. The Consul, though a new comer,
had been quick to perceive the love for gardens existing among
the inhabitants of this country. He recognised the great advan¬
tages of this to a community, and expressed his full sympathy
with all that had been done and was being done to foster the
taste in flowers and improve the cultivation of the land around
the dwellings of the people. The example of the mother nation,
to whom his people looked with pride, in making home plots
bright as well as useful would not be lost on the daughter land.
He had communicated his impressions and views to his authorities,
and told them that wherever a patch of ground could be found
near a cottage door a Pansy smiled. Flowers grew because they
were loved, and it was gladdening to see the produce of the
gardens of England. Such in brief and substance was the speech
of Mr. Warner.

It is well to see ourselves as others see us, and take courage —
to press on in work that is good for the worker, beneficial to the
community, and which may exert a wholesome influence far
beyond the confines of our shores. It is well also to note that
Britain as a nation is not, as pessimists would imply, behind all
the world in everything, but can even win encomiums from
representatives of what is admittedly one of the most enterprising
nations of the earth. The Great Republic of the West, in whose
marvellous progress we take just pride, has taught us many
things besides the value of Tomatoes, and it is well if we can
teach something in return of a tendency to add to the comforts
and pleasures of domestic life. The enterprise of its people has
taught us something commercially — namely, that the produce of
one country is good for another, and that by skill in production
and methods of presentation each may share m meeting the wants
of the other to the benefit of both. That both have been benefited
by the interchange of commodities is indubitable, though we do not
yet work on equal terms.

With all our faults and failings the Old World remains more
liberal than the New in tariff arrangements. The disadvantages on
this side rest with producers, while on the other they press heavily
on consumers. The “ greatest good to the greatest number ” is the
keystone of the policy of Britain, but the “ most wealth to the
fewest persons ” would appear to be the predominating factor in
moulding the customs and framing the laws of greater and newer
countries. Yet one has become accustomed to the methods of
the other, and all may work in friendly rivalry. The latter, after
all, is the important point, for friendly rivalry is the great lever of
trade development ; friction, through mistrust, ever impeding com¬
mercial progress. We will send to other lands whatever we can
place in their markets in better form at current prices than they
can supply : and we will also strive to excel in such products as our
land affords for the needs of our own people. It is a case of

No. G83. — VoL XXVII., Third Series.

turning to the best possible account the natural resources and local
peculiarities everywhere, and sending the products everywhere else,
where they will command the attention of purchasers. Possibly we
have not done all we could and ought in this direction, and our
competitions have become our educators. May we profit by the
lesson.

The foregoing is a prelude. Though the pleasant experience
at Trentham would entitle the day to be regarded as “ Anglo-
American,” another day is more particularly in mind, not less
pleasant to those who spent a little time together in seeking to
impress on an American mind that we have something worth
seeing a little different from the scenery in the States, as well as
examples of cultivation that we consider well representative of
British horticulture both as viewed in its useful and ornamental
aspect. An American florist of repute is visiting the Old Country,
from which he took his departure forty years ago, and has won
fame and foitune in the land of his adoption. In sturdy build
and steady speech Mr. Palmer of Buffalo, New York State, might
be taken as a typical Englishman, but his mind and lingual
characteristics are distinctly American. He believes in dollars,
and can “ guess ” as well as any native-born New Yorker. But
he is not ultra-prejudiced, and can recognise what is good wher¬
ever he may see it, and when he does see something of particular
merit he appears as if instinctively to appraise its “ worth ” He
is great, among other things, in Carnations and Roses, blooms of
which he grows extensively and profitably for sale. “ Yes, sir,”
he will say, “ we can beat you in these — growing them under glass
in winter ; but you can beat us in ” (and who could anticipate
the conclusion of his sentence) “in crooked country lanes and_
hedges.”

Mr. Palmer has doubtless seen a great deal more in England
than he did last Saturday ; but he saw what he wanted in what are
left of Carnations at Slough, as well as Roses in pots being grown
for specimens, also Turner’s new Crimson Rambler, which has
caused somewhat of a sensation, growing alike in pots and in the
open ground in the nursery. As to Carnations, it may be interesting
to know what Americans think of varieties and methods of showing
them. The paper collar style is to them an abomination, and they
will not look at a flower twice that is not supported by a stem
strong enough to hold it boldly, firmly, upright. In America the
flowers are shown on stems a foot or so long in clear decided
colours, and as large as they can be produced by cultivation and
disbudding, these being the kinds that bring in the dollars. They
are raised early in the year, planted out, generously treated, topped
once or twice, carefully lifted in September, and planted on
benches in large light houses for affording blooms through the
winter and spring, one only on each stem, and as many stems as
practicable without overcrowding. After blooming, the plants are
thrown away, young stock alone being relied on for producing the
coveted blooms. “ Malmaisons ” are not yet grown to any great
extent in America, but when it becomes known that they are
among the favourite flowers with our aristocrats and millionaires
they may perhaps “ take ” among the Democrats and Republicans,
who appear to have a sneaking fondness for exalted personages,
and it is pretty well known that strenuous endeavours were made
to obtain the presence of Royalty at Chicago.

Returning to Carnations. The bold-stemmed, free-growing
border varieties, Mrs. Apsley Smith and Queen of the Bedders,
attracted the Buffalo florist. The former is the brightest of
flame scarlets in the collection, and the robust plants had passed
through the winter unscathed. It is most effective in a glowing
mass, also valuable for affording a wealth of flowers for cutting,
and their size would be increased by disbudding. Queen of the
Bedders is similarly bold, hardy, and free, with large, smooth,
salmon-pink blooms, and altogether a first-class border Carnation.
King of Scarlets comes within American “claims” in character,
and two or three of the yellow ground Picotees found favour with

No. 2339— VoL- LXXXIX., Old Series.

70

JOURNAL OF HORTIGULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 2T, 18»3.

the specialist — notably, Countess of Jersey, a fine variety ; Annie
Douglas, very large ; and Mrs. Sydenham, rich in ground colour,
and chastely margined with reddish-pink. Iver White was con¬
sidered the best of the early white Carnations.

In America Roses are produced much in the same way as Car-
Fations. Vigorous young plants grown in beds of soil 4 or 5 inches
thick on benches, flowered once then thrown away. Plants 8 feet high
in pots of Marechal Niel and others, including the new Crimson
Rambler interested the visitor at Slough, and he recognised the
excellence of the work in producing them, as he did the specimens
in pots for producing forty or fifty fine blooms next year ; and it
may interest growers of Roses in pots to know that Mr. Turner
finds that the best time for repotting the plants is soon after
they have bloomed, keeping them under glass for a few weeks
and duly syringed, then removing them to the open air. That is
not the plan adopted by the majority, though it is the practice
of the most successful growers. A line about the new Rambler
in the open ground. The growth is marvellous, and the adapta¬
bility of this distinct Rose for pillars, arches, walls, hedges, or
any other space that requires covering with wreaths of semi-
double crimson flowers can no longer be doubted. It is
probably destined to find its way into most gardens in most
countries. The Manetti stock suits it to perfection.

Now we start for the picturesque and ancient arboricultural
scene afforded by the historical Burnham Beeches. Passing East
Burnham Park, the country residence of Mr. H. J. Veitch, where
much was evidently being done in beautifying the grounds, and in
which a new gardener’s house was observed — good, we may be sure
— we twist and turn down the embowered lanes in which we “ whip ”
even the U S. A., and soon find ourselves in the forest. It is, with
a little open common land, 374 acres in extent, the property of the
Corporation of London, free for the citizens and for all whence¬
soever they may come. Mr. Forbes, the Ranger, says in his concise
“ Guide,” “ the trees are among the existing remnants of the
ancient forests that once covered the greater part of Britain, and
Burnham Beeches will bear comparison for hoary antiquity and
sylvan beauty with any forest scenery in Europe.” No doubt he
is right. By whom or when the trees were last pollarded no one
knows, but it is centuries ago. The result of it is that each
gigantic trunk, with its grotesque contortions, supports a number
of branches of tree-like dimensions, and though several of the
tranks are mere hollow shells, and the half of some wasted away in
the lapse of centuries, the young growths are as healthy and the
leafage as fresh and green as on many youthful trees. These relics
of past ages have their local names founded on structural
peculiarities. Thus the “Elephant” and the “Camel,” from
fancied and not far fetched resemblances to those animals, while
Gray’s tree commemorates the name of the famous poet whose
remains rest at Stoke Pogis near by. There are numbers of these
trees, but the “ Queen,” standing alone on the margin in solitary
majesty, is the monarch of them all, strong, sound, and healthy,
with still a long future before her, typical let us hope of the life
of our noble Queen, whose magnificent home is in view beyond
the trees. But we must pass on, though not before recording the
American’s notions. Have you, Mr. Buffalo, any such Beeches
at home ? “ No, sir, we have not, and I guess if some of our

people had them they would think they were not worth much,
and pretty soon turn some of the wood into fuel. Mind, I don’t
say I should, but some of the boys would not be long before
they did some clearing.”

“Dropmore” was the word given to the coachman, and in
twenty minutes we were shaking hands with Mr. C. Herrin, the
able and courteous gardener there. Fair is the scene from this
mansion of the Fortescues, with the towers of Windsor in the
distance. Richly is the country wooded all around, the blue
Surrey hills rising above the trees, forming a splendid background
to a real English landscape. Quaintly interesting is the long
terrace in front of ancient glass structures and unique apiaries.

Pleasurable it is to see the beds of old English flowers, with
brighter masses of exotics to enliven the scene, and the stately
woolly-headed Thistle, Carduus eriophorus, in bold contrasting
effect in the borders. Blue Chinese vases and pedestals collected
by the late Lord Grenville are a feature, and stand all weathers
in an avenue between and among the flowers. Cool are the
glades of noble trees, and then in openings in the wood beyond
are the famous Conifers, splendid in stature, health, and contour
— monuments of the late Mr. Phillip Frost, who planted them.
The noble Douglas Fir, 120 feet high, the glory of the fine old
place ; while others, such as the gigantic Araucaria, graceful
A’oies Albertiana, weeping A. Morinda, and massive Pinus
insignis, with several more falling little short in beauty. As
their dimensions were recently given in the Journal of Horticulture
(page 312, April 20th, 1893) it is not necessary to repeat them.
A glance through the Peach houses containing splendid fruit, and
with an expression of surprise that Mr. Herrin had kept things so
fresh with no rain to speak of, and a nearly exhausted water
supply, we took a hasty departure. And what do you think of
this, Mr. American ? “ Well, it’s very good and very fine, but

your gentry keep the wood growing till it’s worth nothing, and I
guess our people would have some of it out sooner — before it
was spoiled.” This in reference to the old plantation trees
through which we passed via, Cliveden en route for Windsor.
Looking over the wall our friend guessed Cliveden was bought by
one of his people. “ The richest man in America, worth
£40,000,000, Mr. Astor.” He supposed “ our man ” had to sell
it because he wanted money, but was promptly told “ No ” by an
ardent Englishman from Germany, as “ the Duke of Westminster
could buy Mr. Astor out and out, and then have plenty to spare ! ’
What sturdy Britons our naturalised citizens become ! A native
would scarcely have made the correction in that form.

Windsor, or rather Frogmore, for we entered on the Datchet
side, was reached under a slanting sun, just the time to run through
the houses comfortably and see the home park in fullest beauty,
with the shadows of the trees reaching far across the grass, and
golden streaks of sunUght playing between them. It was calm,
cool, and restful, a perfect evening after a somewhat fatiguing day,
yet a day as the law-made loyal Britain said at its close, “ long to be
remembered.” The district around Windsor has borne the brunt of
the drought. Large Elm trees on the way appeared as if roasted, and
hedges were sere and brown. The rainfall at Frogmore was 1'70
inch between the 4th of March and 4th of J uly, surely the driest
experience yet recorded.

“ Look out for red spider ” was the silent thought as we entered
the Peach ranges. Healthier, cleaner, greener foliage was not to
be seen, and Walburton Admirable Peaches weighed 1 lb. each
and more. Most of the trees were cleared of fruit. The demand
has been unusually great and met, with abundance to follow on the
outside walls. Not a sign of red spider to be seen on the trees
inside or out. House after house cleared of Grapes, but a good
supply still left for later use. Young Vines, two years planted,
bearing heavily, and last year’s planted Muscats carrying two fine
bunches each at the base of splendid long, strong, and short-jointed
extension canes — two from each Vine. Earliest Vines nearly
ready for pruning ; second house maturing fast, but shaded.
“ Shaded,” does someone exclaim ? Yes, shaded. Mr. Thomas
does not work by rule of thumb, but according to circumstances,
and wishes to keep the foliage working a little longer than it would
under brilliant sun. He would shade Melons rather than have
injured and consequently ineffective leaves. Speaking of Melons
reminds of a house of the new Frogmore Seedling (recently
certificated), the plants swelling a full fine crop. The variety
is evidently as free as it is good, but, like all Melons, to
develop fullest quality there must be no premature collapse by
exhaustion.

We climb up and look down into the Pine pits. Splendid are
the plants in sturdiness and colour with fruits of Smooth Cayennes

July 37, M93. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

71

twelve pips deep. One smaller fruit is ripening, produced by a
rootless sucker inserted only ten months ago. Is not this going to
beat the record ? We pass by lines of Tomatoes. “ Ah, yes !”
remarks the American, “ we can grow and sell them at half a
dollar a bushel, and you can’t beat that, I guess.” No, our price is
about 6d. a pound, rather than 6d. a peck. A house — a long case
of cordon Pears — will be a feature of interest in a year or two,
and useful withal, as the best of fruit will be a practical certainty.
We have a glance, just a glance, in the plant houses, and note the
same health and cleanliness that prevail in the fruit department.
Nepenthes were luxuriating, the not often seen N. lanata thriving
and pitchering well. Everything is grown for castle and palace,
and the choicest and best plants have to go on great occasions. The
long conservatory was gay with many flowers, including one that
would not be thought “ valuable ” enough by many a parvenu.
It is a Godetia, the seed of which Her Majesty brought from the
Continent ; the flowers crimson with white rays — a really effective
variety, and notwithstanding its simplicity, perhaps because of it,
found favour with the Queen.

We could only look at, not through, the kitchen garden of
fifty acres, for we have yet to see the terrace, and arrive just
in time to view from the battlements of the majestic castle the
sun sinking behind the distant hills. We look down on the
dizzy depths, peering between the tree tops into the grassy
dells and beautiful slopes below. We walk round the horseshoe
shaped terrace, and admire the beautiful enclosure in which
flowers, ornamental shrubs, and statuary combine to produce an
altogether charming effect on the smooth emerald turf. The
long walk, or avenue of magnificent Elms, stretches far away, its
dignity not being lessened in the first faint suffusion of twilight,
and we pass through the precincts into the town.

Now, Mr. Palmer, we have shown you the best we can of what
we think great and good in park and garden scenery, and of
English garden culture in its broadest aspect by a master in the
art. Are you satisfied ? “ Yes, perfectly ; it is fine all through and
good all over ; the under man has to admit himself beaten, and
you are at the top this time anyhow. But don’t forget to call
on me in Buffalo when you are passing.”

Thus ended our Anglo-American day. Our friend will not
forget it when in his far-away home, while those who formed his
escort will long remember with pleasure his genial company and
naive comments. We all join in a hearty vote of thanks to Mr.
Harry Turner for his good guidance, and the indulgent reader will,
mayhap, not object to this narration during holiday time.

CyPRIPEDITJM X WiNNIANUM.

Tins charming hybrid is the result of a cross between C. Druryi
and C. villosum, the former being the pollen parent. A plant of
it was exhibited by Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons at a meeting of the
Royal Horticultural Society on February 14th of this year, and
the Orchid Committee deemed it worthy of an award of merit.
The bloom is a harmony in brown. The petals are deep brown on
the upper part, lighter below, with a broad central stripe. They
are rather blunt and incurving, as shown in the illustration (fig. 12).
The lip is light brown, and the dorsal sepal purplish brown, edged
with lemon, and margined with white.

Phal.rnopsis tetraspis.

Although introduced into English gardens from the Andaman
Islands by Major-General Berkeley twelve years ago, and described
at that time by Reichenbach from a plant flowered by the late
Mr. John Day as “a very free-flowering species, bearing a rich
panicle of ivory-white flowers in the way of P. violacea, delight¬
fully fragrant,” this Phalaenopsis is, says a writer in a recent

number of the “Garden and Forest,” rarely heard of amongst culti¬
vators. There were several plants of it in flower at Kew a short
time ago. Each flower was 1^ inch across, with broad, fleshy, pure
white sepals and petals, and a narrow, hairy labellum blotched
with yellow. According to General Berkeley this species grows
on Mangrove and other trees in muddy swamps at the extreme
end of the creeks where the water is fresh, and where the plants
hang from the branches a few feet above the water, growing with
extraordinary luxuriance.

Pleiones.

These charming little Orchids are invaluable where cut flowers
are required. Considering they are so easy to grow it is surprising
we do not see more of them. Anyone possessing a warm green¬
house or stove need not be afraid of disappointment. The pseudo¬
bulbs after flowering should be allowed to rest a short time, but

FIG. 12. — CYPRIPEDIUM X WINNIANUM.

never be quite dry. When the young growths are about inch
long the pseudo-bulbs should be taken out of the pot and separated,,
carefully removing all the old compost from them, cutting the old
roots to within about an inch of the pseudo-bulb ; the portion left
serves to keep them firm in the pot. They must be carefully
washed to clear away any traces of scale, to which pest they are
very subject, and which is very troublesome if allowed to ruu on
the young leaves.

The compost I use, and better results cannot be desired, ir
good fibrous peat and chopped sphagnum with a liberal proportion
of nodules of dried cowdung and charcoal, and a good sprinkling of
sharp sand mixed well together. Six-inch pots half filled with
potsherds are employed. The pseudo-bulbs, five or six according^
to the number of young growths, are potted firmly, raised above
the rim of the pot. Afterwards place them in a temperature of
about 50°, and keep them damp but not wet until the new roots
have reached the sides of the pot, then an increase of heat will be
advantageous. We are always careful not to wet the leaves, or
they will soon become spotted and will decay prematurely. As
growth advances the pots are occasionally plunged in weak liquid
manure up to the pseudo-bulbs. Continue this about twice a
week until they have swelled ; they will then require less water,,
and may be placed in a cooler part of the house. In due course
the leaves will ripen and fall, and the flower buds appear. —
Specialist.

SPRAYING VERSUS INSECT PESTS AND
FUNGOID DISEASES.

The question is no longer “ Shall I spray ? ” but “When and
how shall I do it ? ” Such is the heading of a leading article of a
paper received recently from America. Agriculturists and horti¬
culturists are now fully realising that they must fight hard against
the ravages of insect pests and fungoid diseases if they wish to
ensure a remunerative crop in field, garden, or orchard

Fruit trees. Vines, Tomatoes, Potatoes, and Om)„ are alike

72

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ July 27, 1893.

attacked by these pests, and the results obtained on the experi¬
mental stations in the States and also in England, prove without
doubt that at present the only way of dealing successfully with
these natural enemies of the plants in question is by spraying.
Poisonous solutions must at all times be dealt with cautiously and
by reliable men. Such mixtures to be effective must also be pro¬
perly made, ora failure exposes the whole thing to ridicule. It is
my intention to speak of the easiest and safest method of pre¬
paring the Bordeaux mixture so greatly used for Vines, fruit
trees, Tomatoes, and Potatoes. This mixture should now be
applied by all gardeners in the country as a test upon the Potatoes.
In a week or two the disease will be rampant, the weather is now
suitable for its propagation, and we must give the first dressing
before the fungus commences its raids. The experimental plots in
this district have all been sprayed, and we are now hard at work
upon the cottagers’ allotments and the plots in fields and village
gardens. By the time we have been round once I anticipate 15 to
20 acres will have received treatment.

The mixture is very easily made in large quantities, but small
brewings require greater care and consideration. I will, however,
deal with each case. We want a solution of copper sulphate (blue
vitriol), some freshly slaked lime, and a supply of water. The
mixing apparatus consists of two wooden buckets and a tub holding
from 10 to 20 gallons. Take 2 lbs. of copper sulphate, dissolve it
in a bucket containing a gallon of hot water, stirring it well until
the copper is dissolved. Slake about 1 lb. of fresh quicklime in the
second bucket, and when slaked add about another gallon of water
and stir the whole until the water is quite milky. Place 8 gallons
of cold water in the tub, and when the contents of the first bucket
are cold mix the whole 10 gallons in the tub, stirring vigorously
with a stick, and the solution is ready for use. This is sufficient to
spray 10 perches, and the cost does not exceed Is. 3d. The mixture
is much more easily made when large areas are to be dressed.
Suspend a sack containing 40 to 50 lbs. or more of copper sulphate
in a tub in which there are 20 to 40 gallons of cold water. The
copper dissolves, and we can soon obtain a solution of 25 to 30 per
cent, of copper. Having a 25 per cent, solution, about 3 gallons of
this will make 40 gallons of the bouille.

After mixing the copper and water, slake about 2 lbs. of lime
and add as before, stirring during the whole process. The lime is
added simply to neutralise the acidity of the sulphate, and less than
the above quantities may be used ; but if it is not of good quality
and slakes badly, the time to cease adding milk of lime is
detected by dropping in one or two drops of a solution of ferro-
cyanide of potassium. This poisonous solution gives a deep brown
colour if the copper is not neutralised, but remains unaltered in
colour if there is sufficient lime. A good spraying machine is
Vermorel s Eclair, and this before long will come into general use for
spraying. It can be used with advantage for fruit trees and
vegetables, but in this country it is as yet little understood, and even
the time to use it is unknown to many practical men. Since
writing the above I have found a plot of Schoolmaster Potatoes
badly diseased. The plot is low-lying, shaded by Apple trees,
and Mangolds were grown on it last year. In other parts of the
garden^ Schoolmasters are as yet untouched. — Edward H. Smith,
W armvnster,

(To be continued.)

PARSLEY FOR WINTER AND SPRING.

There are few gardens, either large or small, in which this indis¬
pensable herb is over-plentiful during severe winters, but there are many
in which the supply has not been equal to the demand, and it is on
record that “market men” who have made a “lucky hit” with it
during such seasons have reaped a richer reward than any other crop is
capable of realising. At other times, when mild winters have been
experienced, this self-same herb has been a drug in the market. What¬
ever weather is likely to come it is wise to be prepared for the worst.
The produce of sowings made in early spring and during May will keep
up a constant supply till very severe weather is experienced, and on no
account should the winter supply be drawn upon until that from other
sources is quite exhausted. Much may be done to economise by attend¬
ing to this point, for there is generally too great an inclination to pick
irom sheltered positions as soon as a few degrees of frost are experienced.
Although the leaves may be frozen stiff and look uninviting, if placed in
cold water and gradually thawed they will serve for all purposes, and,
moreover, be a distinct gain.

No matter how exposed a position Parsley is grown in, it is seldom
much disfigured by frost unless it is continuous. Then is the time to
draw upon the supply which has been prepared for use during severe
weather and throughout the early spring months. A good sowing
snould be made as soon as possible to provide this supply. If space at
ine toot qf a south wall is available the ground should be prepared by
mrking in a little old hotbed manure, or leaf soil and wood ashes if the

4 ought then to be drawn a few inches from

the wall, in which the seed should be sown thinly. — D. W.

The N.R.S. Catalogue.

“Audi Alteram Partem,” in youn last issue, referring to the
National Rose Society’s new catalogue of exhibition and garden Roses,
says that “ no Rose grower of taste, unless an exhibitor, would be
influenced in his selection of Roses for his garden by this ‘ official
guide.’ It leaves out many of the best Roses for garden and house
decoration, and recommends others that no one but an exhibitor would
care to grow.”

Now, this strikes me as a very sweeping, and at the same time mis¬
leading statement. In the first place I know dozens of non-exhibiting
rosarians who have warmly welcomed the appearance of this new
catalogue, and who regard it as a trustworthy guide, philosopher, and
friend, in the selection of Roses for their gardens. It certainly contains
a list of exhibition Roses, a small proportion of which cannot be recom¬
mended to amateurs generally ; but on the other hand, half the cata¬
logue in question is devoted entirely to the description of varieties suit¬
able for garden decoration and general cultivation, Roses which would
be quite out of place in any collection grown exclusively for exhibition
purposes. In fact, the catalogue recently issued by the Society was not
in the first instince intended for exhibitors at all, but for its non-exhibit¬
ing members. Your correspondent appears to be of opinion that the
National Rose Society “ is only an exhibitors’ society,” whereas more
than two-thirds of its members have probably never exhibited a Rose in
their lives. It may also surprise him to hear that the entire cost of the
new edition has been defrayed by exhibitors, and that it has been
issued by the Society more especially for the benefit of their non¬
exhibiting brethren.

The new edition, which is bound in cloth and illustrated, contains
descriptions of nearly 300 selected Roses, many of which are as yet to
be found in very few trade catalogues. If any of your readers would
like to judge for themselves as to the value of our new catalogue, I can
only say that I shall be happy to supply them with a copy at the small
cost of fourteen stamps. — Edward Mawley, Bosehanh, BerJihamsted,
Herts.

Roses and Rosarians.

It is very strange to see the contemptuous way in which lovers of
Roses who are not exhibitors speak of those who are. Anyone may
aecuse anyone else of want of taste if their likings do not coincide, and
such accusations against exhibitors are common enough in newspapers
with a column or so devoted to gardening, though one does not expect
to find them in the Journal, and I do not remember ever seeing an
exhibitor hit back by condemning the lovers of garden Roses for want
of taste. But to go farther and accuse exhibitors of ignorance, as
“ Audi Alteram Partem ” seems to do by saying it is “ amusing, on a
question of accuracy, to find the new N.R.S. Catalogue set up as an
official guide,” is “ rayther too rich,” as Sam Weller would have said.
Some items in that catalogue may be open to criticism (I hope to make
some humble ones myself before long) but it is prepared by
men who are without question the highest authorities on the Rose in all
its branches, most of whom make it the special study of their lives.
Surely, in any other branch of art, science or manufacture, the “ amuse¬
ment ” would come in when such a compilation was denounced as un¬
trustworthy by an outsider, without any proofs and merely upon his
ipse dixit. Whether it is “ amusing ” or not to find, after the statements
of “ Audi, &c.” (“ it leaves out many of the best Roses for garden and
house decoration, and recommends others that no one but an exhibitor
would care to grow. But then it may be said that the so-called National
Rose Society is onlyan exhibitor’s Society ”) that the catalogue in question
contains eleven pages of exhibition Roses and twelve of garden Roses of
every description and species, must be left to the readers of the Journal
to decide.

It was plain to anyone acquainted with the catalogue that the
mention of it as an official guide in the letter of “A jubilee Rose
Grower ” referred to the statement as to the raisers and dates of the
different Roses catalogued, which is the result of thorough investigation
by the best au'horities, and may be relied on as impartial. Other points
in the letter of “Audi, &c.,” might possibly be found “amusing” by
an irreverent peruser, but I leave him and Rev. D. Williamson in the
able hands of “A Jubilee Rose Grower,” with each word of whose letter
I heartily agree. I trust, however, that “an oasis in the desert” of the
Rose column of the Journal may still be found occasionally from the
pen of Mr. Williamson, whose writings have caused real amusement to
others besides myself. — W. R. Raillem.

Your fluent correspondent, Mr. Williamson, should not attribute
motives to persons who may venture to differ f»om him in a respectful
manner on a point of form. I had not his visit to Waltham the least
in mind when I sent the short note to which he refers on page 51
last week. I had noticed, as have others, his tendency to direct public
attention to his personal friendships and distinguished associations, and

July 27, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

73

to appear to make these even more prominent than the legitimate
subjects of his communications. That is the Society paper style. Some
persons enjoy public familiarities, others do not. It is not long since I
had the pleasure of a handshake with the genial President of the
National Rose Society, and I have had many such pleasures over a
long series of years, but I should shrink from publicly proclaiming
anything like “ intimate personal friendship ” on the ground of such
acquaintance. The same remarks apply to Mr. William Paul. I hold
both these gentlemen, and notabilities of the Rose world, in great
respect ; but why should I tell it from the housetops to a circle of
readers who care nothing about my connections ? I could not do it
except under the shelter of a nom de plume, and that is not doing it at
all in the sense to which the reference applies.

A word about these terrible noms de plume and the heinousness of
“ anonymity.” Permit me to say I think there is a great deal of cant
written on this subject. All the best leading articles in the world are
unacknowledged by the writers of them. Would Mr. Williamson or his
supporter denounce a limes leader that praised them or their work
because the writer, whom we will call John Smith, did not append his
name to it ? Does your correspondent first alluded to (I try to avoid
introducing his name needlessly) object to the letter of “ Audi Alteram
Partem,” and think it should have had a place “ elsewhere,” because
the writer prefers to withhold his name ? the same writer, be it noted,
applauding the “ courage ” of the gentleman he defends, but whose
example he does not follow.

Again, let me ask why did the courageous writer, who is so fond of
introducing names, withhold the particular name of the great rosarian
who praised an article so highly for its *• literary merit and marvellous
accuracy?” It seems even Mr. Williamson can suppress a name when
it answers his purpose, though, considering his proclivities, he might be
supposed to be the last man to do so.

I am sorry he has introduced this subject, but having done so the
rejoinder is imperative. Please let it be understood that I do not wish
for your correspondent to disclose the names of either of his two
admirers whom he conceals. He is quite justified in doing so, and there
are plenty of names without them. Critics should do all they can to be
consistent, and writers on Roses or anything else treat the subjects
fairly on their merits and not make them vehicles for scattering compli¬
ments in prodigal profusion on friends and acquaintances ; or, may I add,
for speaking scornfully of the work of others, as for example the N.R.S.
catalogue. Give credit where credit is due for good work well done by
all means, but do not overdo it, or in the estimation of many it will
degenerate into mere laudation of no value to anyone. Mr. Williamson
evidently has the pen of a ready writer and is apparently sympathetic.
Let him steel himself against his tendency to flatter individuals, and let
his pen be guided more by his head, less by his heart, and he will shine the
more in horticultural journalism. I may not live to see, yet I suspect the
time will come when he will acknowledge that someone has done him
a service in this discussion, though at the present moment he cannot be
expected to admit that his friend is — A Jubilee Rose-geower.

N.R.S. Worksop Show,

Let me first congratulate your representative on the admirable
report he has written on this Show, and also on the very keen discrimi¬
nation he has generally given evidence of in that report. Although I
do not agree with every item of his account, yet I do with the greater
part of it, as being far above the average in appreciation of merit in
Roses.

My reason for writing this letter is in consequence of his remarks
on the thirty-six trebles of the large trade growers. He says, “ Both
were splendid stands. Messrs. Dickson had the cleanest flowers and the
most variety, but Messrs. Harkness had the heaviest blooms.” Of course
he may mean variety of colour by “ most variety,” but there must be
and only be thirty-six varieties in this class, so that the expression
“ most variety ” hardly correctly applies ; but when he goes on further
to state that Messrs. Harkness had the heaviest blooms as contrasted
with the freshness of those of Messrs. Dickson he brings me to the
subject of this letter.

There has been grave dissatisfaction on many occasions this year,
and I have myself, although fairly successful at all the shows I sent
flowers to, been a sufferer by this very method of judging Roses by
weight as opposed to freshness. It is an utterly incorrect system, and
one which I regret to say the professional element of the N.R.S. are
more prone to give attention to than amateurs, although some of the
N.R.S. amateur authorities sin also. It is time that attention should be
drawn to this question, and that some discussion took place in some
leading horticultural paper. I dislike judging with people who ignore
the Rose ” in the most perfect phase of its possible beauty ” (N.R.S.
definition of a good Rose), and surely freshness is an absolute necessity
for this desideratum, and not mere size. See also N.R.S. rules for
points — “ Where flowers are of equal merit judges shall consider arrange¬
ment, freshness,” &c. ; and this, 1 state, some judges ignore ! I am not
averse to saying in public that although my vote may be outweighed by
the majority (when there are three), I always have and shall give
preference to the exhibits that are staged fresh to those that are merely
large, this being the true reading of our rules, and the method that
should be carried out at shows under N.R.S. rules. I would like to
emphasise the fact, however, that all Messrs. Harkness’. flowers were
fresh, and that consequently in the instance which has called forth
these remarks the question of freshness versus size did not apply. Both

boxes were beautiful, and throughout their exhibits at Worksop the
same may be said of Messrs. Harkness’ and Messrs. Dicksons’ flowers.

— Charles J. Grahame, Croydon.

The Feagrakce of Roses.

It was the immortal Shakespeare who said, in the most romantic of
all his dramas — “Romeo and Juliet” — “A Rose by any other name
would smell as sweet.” Nevertheless, it cannot be denied that certain
names of Roses, such, for example, as La France and Marie Baumann,
are suggestive of fragrance, while others are not. And doubtless the
want of fragrance in a flower, however imposing in appearance, is a
serious limitation, almost as regrettable as the lack of moral sweetness
in a beautiful woman. Some Roses indeed are so very impressive, so
commanding in their size and substance and splendour of complexion,
that we almost forget their utter ignorance of odour in the contempla¬
tion of their almost imperial majesty, and among these we may reckon
Baroness Rothschild (“ who would be white if she were not always
blushing, as if in the consciousness of her beauty,” says the Dean of
Rochester), the White Baron.;ss, and Merveille de Lyon. The two
beautiful Roses last named are closely affiliated to the first, and, unless
in colour, partake of the parental qualities and characteristics, a fact
which may be learned by any rosarian without reference to the cata¬
logues, by comparing their nature and manner of development.

In my own garden, where for the sake of their colour not less than
their fragrance, the fairest flowers are partially shaded from the oft-times
too exacting sun, Roses are arranged according to their parentage ; an
interesting experiment, and a valuable one also, as I have already
learned from experience, for the study of their attributes. There White
Lady, which I have frequently eulogised for its exquisite perfume, finds
itself in close proximity to Lady Mary Fitzwilliam ; while Margaret
Dickson, the most superb and majestic of ivory-white Roses, is not far
distant from Merveille de Lyon, though considerably nearer to the
prolific Lady Mary, from whom her fragrance is derived. On the same
principle, Augustine Guinoisseau, one of the most fragrant of modern
Roses, blooms sweetly beside the silvery pink La France. The colour of
the former is white, delicately and most gracefully suffused with rose.

It is a very abundant bloomer, and its pendulous habit is a valuable
characteristic, constantly giving it the appearance of being much fuller
and more perfect than it is. Though I do not profess to be a great
authority on Rose eultivation, I do not hesitate to recommend this
“ almost white La France ” to those of my readers to whom it is a
stranger by reason of the qualities to which I have referred.

Among Teas and Noisettes two of the most attractive are L’Ideale
and Souvenir de S. A. Prince. Mrs. Paul, a gold medallist of the
National Rose Society, and probably the finest of modern Bourbons, has
a most delicious fragrance, much resembling that of the old Monthly
Rose ; it is also remarkable for form and substance, and is altogether a
distinct and splendid acquisition. Among other comparatively recent
productions which I fin 1 irresistibly fascinating by reason of their
sweetness of odour and aspect are Mr. Paul’s Corinna and Salamander,
Mr. Cant’s Prince Arthur, the beautiful Aberdonian Duchess of Fife,
Lady Ethel Brownlow, Mr. Cranston’s Crimson Bedder, and the late
Mr. Bennet’s Mrs. John Laing. There is unquestionably at present a
strong and growing aversion to inodorous Roses, and I doubt not that
ere long a Rose without fragrance will be accounted an anomaly. —
David R. Williamson.

Old Roses at Kirkconnell, Dumfries, N.B.

There are many interesting plants in Mrs. Maxwell-Witham’s
garden at Kirkconnell, and on a recent visit there I noticed the
beauty of the great bushes of the old Roses which have been in the
garden for many years. They are mostly in great masses, which have
been for long unmutilated and allowed ample room. It is in masses
such as these that the old Roses are seen to most advantage, and one is
led to wonder if our newer flowers such as Her Majesty will ever lend
themselves to such grand effects as are produced by the older sorts.

The old Maiden’s Blush — a mass of bloom — is about 6 feet high.
One known as Carmine Rose grows about 8 feet. A white one called
8t. Margaret’s Rose, which always flowers about June 10th (St. Mar¬
garet’s Day), is very fine. Swiss Boy is also very pretty. One which
is said to be exceedingly rare is known as “ Kirkconnell Favourite,”
and one bush was measured 5 feet high and 16 feet through — a mass
of beautiful pink flowers. The York and Lancaster is also growing
luxuriantly. The Scotch Roses — yellow, marbled, blush, white, and
dark pink — also form magnificent clumps, which are very beautiful
in their season. Rose Celeste and Maiden’s Blush are great favourites,
the former being deliciously fragrant. The little Cinnamon Rose,
growing in a hedge, is also much esteemed for its fragrance. A beautiful
white spicy-scented Rose called “ Plum Cake ” is also in the garden,
while the white Provence Rose also does well. The front of the house
is covered with a fine tree of Dundee Rambler, planted nearly sixty
years ago, which covers the house with a mass of beautiful flowers.
Some rare single Rosea are grown outside the garden, and the old
Crimson Velvet Rose flourishes, while the Ayrshire Roses climb luxuriantly
in suitable positions.

Roses of the most recent introduction, such as the beautiful Gustave
Piganeau are likewisj appreciated at Kirkconnell, but after all these
great masses of garden Roses from their beauty and associations must
always remain a feature of the greatest interest in such fine old gardens
as this. — S. Arnott.

7L

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ July 27, 1893.

Chrysanthemum Prospects.

Several well-known trade and amateur growers are of the opinion
that the present spell of moist, rainy weather will, after the long
drought, start the plants into rapid growth, and thus delay bud for¬
mation, by which, instead of the season being an early one, it is more
likely, in their opinion, to be rather late. It would be interesting to
know how far this view is held by cultivators at large.

A Japanese Chrvsanthemum Snotv.

To those who have no idea of what a Chrysanthemum show is like in
its native country, it may be useful to point out that in a collection of
pictures by Mr. Alfred Parsons, now on view at the rooms of the Fine
Art Society, 148, New Bond Street, there is a charming little piece of
water colour drawing (No. 90) entitled “ A Chrysanthemum Show,
Yokohama. November.” A covered building of bamboo with a wide
opening in the middle of the roof through which a delicious fine sky is
observable, has a bank of large-flowered Chrysanthemums on each side
securely sheltered from the sun and wind. The flowers are big, massive,
and of all colours, and the plants appear to be sunk in the ground, as no
pots are visible. They are railed off, and a large open space is left for the
public to walk about in. Ten or a dozen Japanese in native costume are
enjoying the show, which is depicted so well by Mr. Parsons. The
colours of the blooms are mostly white, yellow, purple, and crimson.
The picture is bright and clear, and such an exhibit at any of our shows
would meet with a very favourable reception.

Chrysanthemums in New Zealand.

The flowers staged at the recent meeting of the N.C.S. at the
Aquarium were in some respects less interesting than those sent over by
Mr. Earland, which were shown last September. On that occasion the
varieties were stated to be seedlings raised from Colonial saved seed,
and were all named by the raiser. The four blooms sent from Sydney
were fairly well grown, but unfortunately no information was forth¬
coming as to whether they were true Australian seedlings or only old-
established varieties. From correspondence read by the Secretary and
by the Foreign Secretary, it appears that there had been for some time
previous to the holding of the New Zealand shows a great deal of wet
weather, and as the Colonial growers do not resort to protection of any
sort the exhibition suffered somew'hat severely. The weather in
Australia has also been unfavourable for the popular flower. — P.

National Chrysanthemum Society.

A SPECIAL meeting of the General Committee and the Floral Com¬
mittee was held at the Eoyal Aquarium, Westminster, on Friday last,
the principal item on the agenda paper being the consideration of some
Australian-grown Chrysanthemums, which had been frozen in blocks of
ice, and sent to the Society for adjudication. Mr. R. Ballantine occupied
the chair. After reading the notice convening the meeting, mention
was made of the death of the late Mr. E. Saunderson, for many years
President of the Society. The Chairman announced that the funeral
was attended by himself, the Secretary, and several other members, and
that a wreath w'as sent in the name of the N.C.S.

The Secretary read a letter from the Auckland (N.Z.) Chrysanthe¬
mum Society concerning their recent Show, at which many novelties
had been staged, the chief of which were W. Tricker, Vi viand Morel,
Miss Anna Hartzhorn, E. G. Hill, Gloire du Rocher, Eynsford White,
and Lilian B. Bird.

Mr. Harman Payne read some interesting correspondence from New
Zealand relating to the frozen blooms sent out by the N.C.S., which
had been exhibited at the Wellington and Christchurch Societies, and
were to be sent to other places in the Colony. Large numbers of
visitors had paid for admission to see the English flowers, and it was
confidently felt that the experiment would result in a large increase of
growers in New Zealand. The incurves were particularly admired, and
nothing so perfect had ever been seen there before.

Mr. Dean announced that the blooms then on the table were grown
by a Mr. R. Forsyth of Sydney. This gentleman was a prominent
exhibitor at the Sydney Show, and a successful prizewinner. It was
to be regretted that the names of the blooms had not been communi¬
cated, because in the frozen state, which caused some degree of dis¬
colouration, they could not be identified with any certainty. One of
che blooms was a large incurved Japanese of the Lady Lawrence type,
the colour being a dirty white. Another was of the build of Bouquet
Fait, of a decidedly brownish tinge, but of good size and substance.
The third was a very flat, broad-petalled, incurved Japanese flower of
light bronze, and the fourth bloom was an incurved with very close
regularly disposed petals, and of a deep bronze or cinnamon yellow, A
-’liver modal was awarded for the exhibit.

Mr. J ukes thought that although the sending of such exhibits was
interesting they had but little educational advantages, and could only
be reftarded as curiosities. He thought the Society, now that they had

a fair idea of the way the Chrysanthemum was grown in the Antipodes,
should be on their guard against encouraging too many exhibits of this
sort, as it caused considerable expense for carriage and cold storage.

Mr. Cannell received a vote of thanks for staging some seedling
Begonias, one, a deep double crimson, attracting much attention.

Several questions submitted by affiliated societies were disposed of,
and it is a gratifying proof of the usefulness of the scheme for affiliation
to find that disputes are so readily settled by the ruling of the parent
Society,

FLOWERS AT READING.

A VISIT to the nurseries and trial grounds of Messrs. Sutton & Sons
the other day revealed the fact that Reading has, in common with other
places, suffered from drought. Annuals are dwarfer in growth than
usual, but in most instances the plants are flowering profusely, and in
some cases seeding prematurely. No rain, we were informed, had fallen
practically for four months, and were it not for the strenuous attempts
to counteract the effects of a prolonged drought, the results could not be
other than disastrous. Judicious management, combined wdth good
cultivation, such as has been recommended in these pages, curtailed the
evil effects, however, to a great extent, and it is anticipated that there
will be an e-xcellent seed harvest, notwithstanding the deficiency of rain
during the early stages of growth. Much might be seen at Reading,
there being always something of interest to note, and much could be
recorded. Space, though, is limited, and we must confine our remarks
for the present to the flowers that are now the most attractive at this
world-famed establishment. Cleanliness and brightness pervade the
whole premises, and smartness in attention to details relative to the
production of the best possible seeds is most noticeable.

As is well known, every flower worthy of note, and that it is possible
to grow from seed, receive attention at the extensive nurseries, and in
the trial grounds of Messrs. Sutton, but none more so perhaps than
Tuberous Begonias. These now form a special feature, and they are
well worth a visit. It may be possible to see larger and more unwieldly
blooms, but it is questionable whether from a decorative point of view
more useful plants are forthcoming from any source. For neatness of
habit combined with vigour and gracefulness we have never seen better
plants, and the same may be said in regard to the flowers. These are
not ungainly In size, as is too frequently the case, but large enough to
display their beauty and symmetry. Of colours there is a great variety,
and the shades of blossoms on plants produced from a packet of seed of
the Reading Beauty strain are really surprising. Plants from seed sown
six months ago are now a sight worth seeing, being from 12 to 15 inches
in height and covered with blooms. One cannot help noticing the
diversified habits of the plants; and although all present that healthiness
and equilibrium that denotes careful fertilisation and judicious manage¬
ment, some are erect, with the flowers on stout stalks, standing well
above the foliage, others are semi-erect, and not a few are of a drooping
nature, possessing the gracefulness of a Fuchsia, and suitable for hang¬
ing baskets. For trade purposes the plants of the above-mentioned
strain are arranged in sections under glass, and it may be interesting to
note that the firm makes a speciality of offering seeds of the various
colours separately. Numerous colours, from pure white to a deep crim¬
son and the richest yellow with delicate tints of pink are also included
in Sutton’s prize strain ; and the plants are also dwarf in habit with a
robust constitution. No attempt is made to compile a long list of named
varieties, the principal object kept in view being to grow seeds that can
be relied upon to produce compact plants which will yield an abundance
of flowers of an equal size and exquisite colouring. A new single white
of exceptional merit, however, has recently been raised, and this is
known as Queen of Whites. It is a beautiful variety, one of the best in
cultivation, and always attracts attention. The plant is of good habit,
and the flowers are pure white, large, and of great substance. In
Reading Gem we have an interesting break from the ordinary type of
Begonias. The flowers are of perfect form, and have white centres,
which merge into a charming pink shade, the margin of the petals being
a glowing carmine. It is one of the prettiest Begonias we have seen,
and it will doubtless become a popular variety. Those who require
blooms of a rich orange scarlet shade should make their acquaintance
with Prince of Orange, whilst for producing bright orange coloured
flowers Meteor will be found a most useful variety. The last-named
kind has handsome dark foliage marked with light veins, which enhances
its appearance considerably.

What has been said in regard to the single Begonias applies with
equal force to the double varieties. The compactness of the plants and
diversity of colouring in the flowers are equally noticeable in this section.
Sutton’s Double Mixed comprises blooms of the most superb forms and
varied colours. Among them may be found flowers representing
Camellias, Hollyhocks, Dahlias, Carnations and Roses, and in innumer¬
able shades of yellow, rose, carmine, scarlet, and crimson, quite equal to,
and in some cases surpassing, many named varieties. The Double
White is a magnificent variety with pure white blossoms of superb form
and substance produced well above a mass of sturdy robust foliage.
Indeed, both single and double forms are unique ; but to fully realise
the quality of the strain the plants must be seen, and once seen they will
be grown.

A new departure in Begonia culture has been made at Reading, and
the result is that we now have a useful class of fibrous-rooted plants of
the B. semperflorens section. These can be raised from seed as easily as the
tuberous varieties, the plants usually flowering freely within a period of

July 27, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

75

five or six months. From seed sown in January some plants a foot in
height and loaded with flowers are to be observed here, but to ensure
spring and early summer blooming a sowing may be made in August,
and the seedlings grown steadily during the winter. A selection of
these is being made, and the result is of a most satisfactory nature.
Crimson Gem is one of the best, and quite an acquisition, the flowers
being of a bright crimson shade. For bedding purposes as well as pot
culture these Begonias are exceedingly useful, and in the open air the
foliage assumes a bronzy metallic hue, which enhances their appearance.
At the Gardens of the Royal Horticultural Society last year these
Begonias were bedded out, and certificates awarded for several varieties ;
whilst at Reading this year they are most effective in the open air.
Duchess of York is a new variety with rosy pink flowers, as also is
Floral Gem. Snowflake is a charming white, and Duchess of Edinburgh
is a beautiful form, with large white blossoms suffused with pink. It
may be noted with advantage that these Begonias are robust, yet dwarf
and well proportioned in habit, and will bloom long after the tuberous
varieties are over ; indeed if properly managed they will flower nearly
all the year. The individual flowers, too, are twice as large as those of
•the ordinary semperflorens type, and are produced in great abundance.
There is undoubtedly a future in store for these beautiful plants.

Achimenes also form a special feature at Reading, and several houses
are devoted to their culture. For years experiments have been made
and improvements effected by careful and patient fertilisation, and now
the plants are perfect in habit, robust, and profuse in flowering. A
great diversity of colours hag also been obtained. Sutton’s Blue is a
good representative of one type, the flowers being of an intense shade.
Rosy Queen is a splendid variety, especially attractive under artificial
light. Splendens is a magnificent scarlet, a decided improvement on
Dazzler. Harry Williams is a distinct variety and rather late in flower¬
ing, which renders it all the more valuable ; and in Admiration we have
a beautiful rosy purple flower. The whites are also specially good, the
same applying to other varieties. Gloxinias raised from seed sown a
few months ago are making a grand show, the plants being vigorous,
■carrying splendid foliage and flowers of great size and substance. The
spotted kinds are charmingly coloured, and by a series of crosses an
improvement in the habit of the plants has been effected, the foliage
being more robust than was formerly the case. Of named varieties
such as Her Majesty, Duke of York, Sutton’s Scarlet and Purple are too
well known to need a lengthy reference here, these having been ex¬
hibited at many leading exhibitions recently. A yellow Torenia deserves
apecial mention, and the sight of a number of plants of Cyperus alterni-
folius raised from seed would interest many horticulturists.

Regarding the flowers in the open air the Asters first claim atten¬
tion. Here we find a strain of the finest quality, and comprising
flowers of the most charming colours. Many of the plants, however,
will be at their best in about three weeks, but those who require an early
flowering variety should grow Harbinger. This is a splendid Aster, grow¬
ing 18 inches in height, and producing an enormous number of pure white
flowers about a month before any other. The blooms of the variety
Comet in various shades much resemble Japanese Chrysanthemums,
and are general favourites for cutting, whilst for garden decoration
Sutton’s Bedding, Snowball, and Fire King are deserving of mention.
The new dwarf Gannas raised from seeds sown this spring are blooming
profusely in the open air, and for producing a grand effect in the flower
garden these plants are indispensable. They should be grown in every
garden. Carnations are particularly good, although, generally speak¬
ing, the season has been extraordinarily short, and it is satisfactory to
observe that whilst layers and established plants have, owing to the
prolonged drought, failed, the seedlings are flowering abundantly. The
plants are vigorous in growth, forming dense tufts, and bear hundreds of
richly coloured double flowers. The same may be said of the Picotees,
which make a charming show. Stocks are everything that could be
desired, showing a remarkable per-centage of double flowers, as also
do the Petunias, which are wonderfully fine. A large breadth of
seedling Hollyhocks afford ample evidence that considerable attention
has been paid to the selection of Sutton’s prize strain. The plants
are dwarfer than is usual, being about 4 feet in height, doubtless owing
to the dry weather, but the flowers are as double and as fine as those
of the best named varieties. It is surprising how beautiful these Holly¬
hocks are when treated as annuals. Bedding Lobelias from seed are
compact in habit and profuse in flowering, a vast improvement on the
straggling seedlings of bygone days. The blue, white, and pink varieties
are equally good, forming a strain which should be found in every
garden. A specialty is also made of the trailing Lobelias in various
colours, these being eminently adapted for vases and hanging baskets.

lAt the trial grounds the huge beds of annuals produce a brilliant
display of colour. It is impossible to enumerate all the plants worthy
of notice, but special mention may be made of a few exceptionally fine
varieties. In this category we may place Crimson King Virginian Stock,
a decided improvement on the type, and an excellent edging plant or for
growing in beds. The double white Clarkias are extremely useful, and
among Nasturtiums Aurora deserves special notice. This is a most
beautiful flower of a primrose shade suffused with pink and carmine.
Cloth of Gold, a yellow-leaved variety, is effective in a mass, and would
make an excellent bedding plant. Of Calendulas Orange King is a
grand double variety, and the French Marigold Miniature Spotted is
very showy. Godetias in variety form pleasing masses of colour. Lady¬
bird being a very dwarf form with white flowers spotted crimson.
Apple Blossom is an exceedingly pretty Godetia with dense heads of
white and pink flowers, and a dwarf form of Ladv Albemarle is esne-

cially good. The last named variety is well adapted for bedding, the
same remark applying to a selection of Duchess of Albany which has
large pure white flowers. The Lupins appear to be flowering well this
year, the various colours, comprising different shade of blue, lilac, white
and yellow being most effective. Portulacas also form a pleasing feature,
as likewise do the Poppies of numerous kinds. Great care is taken to
keep the popular Shirley Poppy rich and varied in colouring, all
“rogues” being promptly removed. Numerous other annuals, in¬
cluding the beautiful Nemesia Strumosa Siittoni, also receive attention;
every possible effort to produce seed of the very best quality being
made, and thus the reputation of the firm for excellence is fully
maintained. — C.

The Weather ih London. — During the past week the weather
has been changeable in the metropolis. Sunday opened fine but gusty,
and rain fell heavily during the evening. Monday was showery and
Tuesday proved fine, but it rained slightly on Wednesday morning. AC
the time of going to press it is fine.

- Royal Horticultural Society’s Gardens. — In the

Gardens of the Royal Horticultural Society at Chiswick a very large
collection of herbaceous Phloxes is now in full flower, and contains
many beautiful varieties. Tuberous and hybrid Begonias grown in
beds in the open are now coming into bloom. Violas, of which there is
a very large collection, have done remarkably well, and are still laden
with flowers, A house devoted to Fuchsias now presents a charming
appearance. Cannas grown under glass form an interesting feature, and
are doing well and very attractive. The Grapes in the conservatory
and other houses are bearing, as usual, heavy crops of good fruit.
Tomatoes are grown extensively, and commencing to ripen outdoors.
All the best varieties are grown, and afford a good opportunity for
observation to those interested in their culture,

- Dr. Cooke. — According to the “ Kew Bulletin ” Dr. Cooke,

the well-known authority in mycology, has retired at the age of sixty-
five from the public service. Dr. Cooke came to Kew when tlu
collections, of which he has charge, were transferred from the Indian
Museum to that establishment in 1880. It is gratifying to note that in
recognition of his services the Secretary of State for India has made
a small addition to Dr. Cooke’s pension. Dr. Cooke has been succeeded
at the Kew Herbarium by Mr. G. Massee, whose work on “ British Fungi
Flora ” was reviewed in our last issue.

- Floral Designs at Shrewsbury. — In consequence of the

very early season for Carnations, and the certainty that there could be
but little competition at Shrewsbury Show, August 23rd and 24th, the
Committee have determined to withdraw the liberal prizes offered
for collections, and instead to give £5 and a gold medal for the best
display of floral arrangements in a space 10 feet by 4 feet, with
second and third prizes added. The various objects to be exhibited
in this class are left to the discretion of the exhibitor.

- An Exhibition op Narcissi in Birmingham. — The

Council of the Birmingham Botanical Society has decided to hold an
Exhibition of Narcissi in their Gardens at Edgbaston on Wednesday
and Thursday, April 18th and 19th, 1894. An Exhibition was arranged
to be held in April last, but the early season caused the Narcissi generally
to be out of flower before the date fixed for the Exhibition, so that
a good representative Exhibition did not take place ; but it gave the
Council every encouragement to hold another Exhibition next April.

- A Fine Gloxinia. — “A. J. N.” writes — “At the monthly

meeting of the Chichester and District Gardeners’ Mutual Improve¬
ment Society, June 2Gth, an extraordinary Gloxinia of Messrs. Sutton'.s
strain was exhibited by Mr. W. Aylward, gardener to G. Woodbridge,
Esq., Chichester. A first-class cultural certificate was awarded for the
same. The plant was raised from seed two years ago, and carried fifty -
four fully expanded flowers, which were of a good average size, aul
there were several buds to open. It was grown in a 7-inch pot, and was
32 inches in diameter. The leaves were from 9 to 14 inches long, and
averaged 7 inches wide, and were of a bright and healthy colour. I
saw in the conservatory of the gardens managed by Mr. W. Aylwa i
several Gloxinias similar to the one mentioned,”

76

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 27, 1893.

- District Superintendent of London Parks. — We are

informed that Mr. John Knight has been appointed District Superintend¬
ent of Parks and Open Spaces, north of the Thames, under the auspices
of the London County Council.

- Horticulture in France has been recognised by the

appointment of M. De la Devansaye as a Chevalier of the Legion of
Honour. M. De la Devansaye, we understand, has been President of
the Horticultural Society of Angiers for twenty years.

- Lincoln’s Inn Gardens. — The gardens of Lincoln’s Inn will,

by permission of the benchers, be thrown open for the benefit of the
poor children inhabiting the surrounding neighbourhoods. On and
after August 14th, until September 15th, the gardens will be open from
5 o’clock until dusk.

- Water Excursion. — A party of about ninety persons, chiefly

employes at the Eoyal Nurseries, Slough, and friends, had a very
pleasant trip up the Thames last week. The party embarked about
nine o’clock in the steam launch “ Emperor,” and the beautiful river
bank scenery was greatly enjoyed.

- New Zealand Apples in London. — Shippers of Apples

from Auckland are, says a New Zealand paper to hand, in receipt of
returns for fruit shipped to London. Although the prices realised have
not in every case been satisfactory, a large amount of useful information
has been gleaned as to the future prospects of the trade, which goes to
show that there is money in the trade when it is carried out on the best
lines.

- Septon Park Gardeners’ Association. — Under the

patronage of the Lord Mayor and of the ex-Mayor, Mr. J. de Dels Adam,
the members of the Sefton Park, Wavertree, and District Amateur
Gardeners’ Association will hold their annual flower Show on Saturday,
August 12th, and Monday, August 14th, in the enclosed grounds of the
old Fern Lawn Tennis Club, Smithdown Road, opposite the Sefton Park
entrance. Arrangements have been made for exhibits in fifty-three
classes, with three prizes for each class.

- Lambeth Flower Show. — The annual Lambeth Flower

Show was held in Lambeth Palace Grounds recently. In spite of the
dryness of the season during the last few months a large number of
flowers were exhibited, and they all gave evidence of knowledge, care,
and attention. The flowers displayed in marquees were not the only
attraction. During the day a programme of athletic sports was carried
through, there was an old English fair, and at night a display of fire¬
works. Canon Pelham presided at the distribution of prizes by Mrs.
Stanley, who was accompanied by Mr. H. M. Stanley, the African
explorer,

- Market Apples. — In the deep sandy soil at Ham Common

Mr. Walker, who has a number of remarkably fine Apple trees from
four to six years planted, has very largely reduced his stock of Lord
SufSeld, and is replacing it with Lord Grosvenor, which is found to
be more robust and on the whole a more reliable cropper. Then, too,
such a popular variety as Warner’s King does not do well on the sand,
and is being replaced by Bismarck. However, the six favourite kitchen
varieties here are Lord Grosvenor, Grenadier, Stirling Castle, Peter the
Great, Prince Albert, and New Hawthornden. This is also for all ordinary
purposes a selection hard to beat as bush trees. Of dessert varieties for
market purposes Gladstone, Worcester Pearmain, Yellow Ingestrie, and
Cox’s Orange Pippin are in high favour ; so also is Duchess of Olden¬
burg, a really good market Apple. — A. D.

- Flowers at Eastbourne. — The recent rains have had a

most beneficial effect at Eastbourne, as elsewhere, and the flower beds
on the Grand Parade are now arrayed in all their glory. They present
a brilliant yet harmonious mass of bloom, and daily visitors may be seen
admiring them . Eastbournians, says a Sussex paper, are proud of their
gardens on the Front, and with good reason, for they are certainly an
additional attraction to an already picturesque promenade. Mr. Smith,
the Corporation’s head gardener, invariably manages to produce some
novel device in laying out the beds. Examples of his skill in this
respect may be found opposite Victoria Place and Wilmington Square.
The latter exhibits the sentiment of loyalty and congratulation so
appropriate to the present season. On scrolls of red in yellow letters
are the following words ; — “ Eastbourne’s best wishes for our sailor
Prince, G.F.E.A.,” “Densest qui regit omnia,” “Long life and happiness
to their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of York.” In the
centre is a representation of the Royal Standard, 7 feet square, and at
the eastern end a crown.

- English Gardeners for India, — An Indian paper states

that the Government of India have under consideration a scheme by
which European gardeners for gardens in the various provinces will be
regularly supplied from Kew, and will be retained on conditions more
satisfactory than at present.

- Lady Gardeners. — A daily contemporary is responsible for

the following statement : — “ Lady Carlisle is training an entire staff of
women gardeners, who she hopes will keep the grounds of her Yorkshire
home in as perfect a condition as their male predecessors have done.” If
there is any truth in this assertion it is surely the latest development of
the craze for lady gardeners.

- Australian Fruit. — During the past year or so fruit from'

the irrigation colonies in Australia has been noticeable on our markets.
Canned Peaches and Apricots are exhibited by Messrs. Chaffey Brothers
at the Earl’s Court Exhibition, at the Imperial Institute, and the Crystal
Palace. It is stated that a consignment of 4000 cases of Oranges and
Lemons from Australia will shortly arrive.

- Buddleia globosa in Kirkcudbrightshire, — Mr. S. Arnott

writes : — This fine shrub was lately in full flower in Mrs. Maxwell-
Witham’s garden at Kirkconnell. A plant grown on a south wall
receives a little protection in winter, some Spruce branches being placed
over it ; but one on a south border has for the last four years had na
protection, and is in noway injured. I should like to know how far
north this Buddleia is found to be hardy. — S. Arnott.

- Mangroves and Their Effect on the Coast Line. — Id

his interesting report to the Colonial Office on the scientific results of
the Anglo-French Delimitation Commission which he accompanied to
Sierra Leone, Mr. Scott Elliot states that the effect of the Mangroves
in creating alluvial soil could be very clearly seen at Mahela and in the
Samu country generally. Mangrove trees seem in fact, he says, to have
been designed by Nature to change any bay or indentation of the coast
line into fertile soil.

- Death of Mr. J. Pithers.— Chrysanthemum growers will

hear with great regret of the death of Mr. J. Pithers, which took place
at Chilwell early yesterday (Wednesday) morning. He had been head
grower to Messrs. J. R. Pearson & Sons for the past few years, and
only those who have had an opportunity of seeing their magnificent
collection in November can realise the full excellence of his work for
the great midland firm. His capacity as a Chrysanthemum grower
had been previously proved, for he was a well-known exhibitor and
prizewinner when practising in the south of London years ago. Mr.
Pithers had an exceptional knowledge of the Autumn Queen and
energetically supplemented the efforts of his employers to keep their
collection up to date in every respect.

- Hook Cottage Garden Society. — Representing the Surrey

County Council Technical Education Committee, Mr. A. Dean, in con¬
junction with Mr. Weddell and Mr. Cox, Secretary to the local Society,
visited the parish allotments on Thursday afternoon and awarded prizes
for the best. There are a large number on land which belonged to the
late Mr. Blake, the rental being Is. per rod. Naturally, the “ Surrey
Comet ” asserts, Mr. Blake’s death has caused some anxiety as to the
future occupation of the land as allotments. Several cottage gardens
were also visited and prizes awarded. In the evening, under the pre¬
sidency of Mr. W. B. Clode, an address on “ Gardening in Relation to
Allotments and Cottages ” was delivered b/ Mr. Dean at the schools
to a considerable audience, which was listened to with the greatest
interest.

- Horticultural Education. — At the fost-'prandial proceed¬
ings in connection with the annual outing of the Devon and Exeter
Gardeners’ Association some excellent suggestions were thrown out by
the Chairman, Mr. Hope, and others, whereby the value of the Society
as an educational institution would be enhanced, and the interests of
an important industry be promoted. One of the suggestions, remarks
an Exeter evening paper, was that the younger members should take
an increased interest in the practical work of the Society, and thus fit
themselves the better to meet the growing competition with the English
markets which was everywhere manifest. It is doubtless a great slight
upon farmers and gardeners that they should allow millions of Apples
to be sent from the other side of the globe, when they could be pro¬
duced at home with perfect ease, and sold at prices which would be
thoroughly remunerative. This, of course, is but a very small phase of
the foreign competition question, and is a subject which might properly
occupy the attention of everyone interested in horticulture.

July S7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

77

- The “ Kew Bulletin.” — Copies of the “ Kew Bulletia ” for

April and May, also for June, are to hand, and these contain much use¬
ful information. In the number for the first two months there is an
interesting account of “ Botanical Enterprize in 1796,” which is well
worth perusal. Instructive articles on the ” Chinese white wax ” and
•“ Manila aloe fibre,” with miscellaneous notes are also included in that
inumber. The issue for June is equally interesting, and in addition to
various articles contains many miscellaneous notes from which we
extract the half-dozen that follow this paragraph.

- Malayan Plants. — Dr. G. King, F.E.S., has sent from

“Calcutta a collection of between two and three hundred new or
rare Malayan plants, and a set of 270 specimens of the late
Father Scorlechini’s Perak Ferns. These Ferns were worked out by
Colonel Beddome, and published in the “Journal of Botany,” in 1887.
Mr. Charles Curtis, Assistant Superintendent, Fore.st Department,
Penang, who is an excellent collector, has also forwarded a further set of
■220 species of Malayan plants.

- Plants from Japan. — Through Dr. Kingo Miyabe, Kew has

received from the Agricultural College of Sapporo, Japan, the first part of
a set of the plants of the Island of Yeso. It contains 237 pieces, and includes
the orders Ranunculacese to Kosacem. And through Professor Matsumura
Jinzo, Director of the Botanic Garden, Imperial University, Tokio, the
Herbarium has been enriched by a collection of some 1350 species,
including many not previously represented at Kew. This collection is
valuable, apart from its numerical extent, inasmuch as it contains
authentic specimens of novelties published by Professor M. Jinzo
himself.

- Mexican Plants — Kew has purchased a set of Mr. C. G.

Pringle’s Mexican Plants, collected in 1892, and also the first three
centuries of Mr. L. D. Reed’s Virginian plants. Both of these gentle¬
men are excellent collectors, and Mr. Pringle’s Mexican plants include
novelties from the apparently inexhaustible Mexican flora. Dr. A.
Engler, the Director of the Berlin Botanic Garden, has presented a
parcel of about 100 species of Brazilian Melastomacem, many of them
authenticated types of new species.

- Bulbs from Asia Minor. — Mr. E. Whittall, a merchant of

Smyrna, and an ardent lover of plants, has considerably enriched the
Kew collection of bulbous plants. He is collecting systematically, and
the results promise to be very successful. Already several new things
contributed to the herbarium have come to light, amongst them
Galanthus Icarisiae, Tulipa concinnea, and Fritillaria Whittallii.

- New Liliace^ from Tropical Africa. — In Engler’s

“ Jahrbucher,” vol. xv., pp. 467-179, is a paper by Dr. Engler and Mr.
J. G. Baker on the new Liliacem discovered by recent German collectors
in Tropical Africa. It includes an Iphigenia, a bulbine with flat leaves^
an Anthericum of the sub-genus Phalangium, five species of Chloro-
phytum, one Eriospermum, an Aloe, four Albucae, one Urginea, two
Drimise, five Scillae of the sub-genus Ledebouria, and six new Dracaenas,
one of which is figured. This latter, which is named D. Braunii after
its discoverer, has been brought from the Cameroons to the Berlin
Botanic Garden, where it flowered in August, 1891. It has very short
fl,owering stems, with only a single pair of leaves, overtopped by the much
longer leafy sterile stems. The new Aloe (A. venenosa, Engler') was
found by Dr. Pogge on the Kaissai, one of the feeders of the Congo in the
very centre of the continent, and is used as an arrow poison.

- Acidanthera ^quinoctialis, Balter. — Through Mr. Scott

Elliott, Kew has received full specimens, with corms for cultivation, of
this plant collected on the top of Sugar-loaf Mountain, Sierra Leone,
where Mr. Scott Elliot found it on his recent expedition as botanist to
the Anglo-French Delimitation Commission. It was only known pre¬
viously by a sketch of the inflorescence and flowers made by Dean
Herbert, now in the Bindley Library, a copy of which was made
several years ago by Mrs. Thiselton Dyer for the Kew collection of
drawings. The corm is large and globose, with tunics of parallel fibres.
The plant reaches a height of 4 feet, and the stem bears a large number
of strongly veined ensiform leaves, the lowest of which is IJ foot
long, and nearly an inch broad. The tube of the perianth is 5 or 6
inches long, the longest that is known in the whole order Iridere. The
species much resembles the Abyssinian A. unicolor and A. bicolor of
Hochstetter, but is much larger in size. The locality where the plant
was seen by Mr. Scott Elliot is 3000 feet above sea-level. The whole
collection brought home contains altogether 1500 species.

- Mark Smith, Limited. — Just as we are preparing for press

a request reaches us to announce the amalgamation of the firms of
Messrs. Mark Smith & Co., Louth, and the Horticultural and Agricultural
Chemical Company, Glasgow. The above will be the title of the weed
killing company in future, with the head quarters at Louth, Lincolnshire.

- Jubilee of the Eothamsted Experiments. — Th*

arrangements are now completed for the celebration of the Jubilee of
the Rothamsted agricultural experiments at the Laboratory, Harpenden
Common, on Saturday, the 29th inst., at 3 P.M., under the presidency
of Mr. Herbert Gardner, M.P., President of the Board of Agriculture.
The proceedings, we learn from Nature, will commence with the dedi¬
cation by Mr. Gardner of a granite memorial, erected in front of the
Rothamsted Laboratory, to commemorate the occasion. Addresses of
congratulation will then be presented to Sir John Lawes and Dr. Gilbert
on behalf of the subscribers to the Rothamsted Jubilee Fund and
various learned societies, including the Royal, Royal Agricultural,
Chemical, Linnean, and other leading scientific institutions. Sir John
Lawes will also be presented with his portrait, which has been painted
by Mr. Hubert Herkomer, R.A., for the subscribers to the Jubilee Fund.
Afterwards there will be a reception at Rothamsted by Lady Lawes.
The Rothamsted Laboratory, where the ceremony will take place,
adjoins Harpenden Common, and is distant about half a mile from the
Harpenden station of the Midland Railway Company.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

July 25Tn.

The holiday season had set its mark oh the meeting on the above
date, the exhibits showing a considerable falling off in numbers and the
attendance being very small. However, there was a fair show of flowers
and fruit and a good sprinkling of Orchids.

Fruit Committee. — Present : T. Francis Rivers, Esq. (in the
chair) ; the Rev. W. Wilks, Messrs. G. Bunyard, J. Cheai, William
Warren, H. J. Pearson, A. Dean, G. Woodward, W. H. Divers,
G. Wytlies, G. Reynolds, F. Q. Lane, H. Balderson, and J. Smith.

Fruit made an attractive display. Messrs. G. Bunyard & Co., Maid¬
stone, Kent, sent a large collection of Apples and Pears, comprising some
thirty dishes. The Apples were clean, of a good size, and well coloured,
especially Red Juneating, Duchess of Oldenburg, Gladstone, Beauty of
Bath, Red Astrachan, Lady Sudeley, and Quarrenden. Other varieties
especially good were Stirling Castle, Early Transparent, Grenadier,
Sugarloaf, Peter the Great, and Gold Medal. Some fruits of Pear The
Beacon were fine and well coloured. The same firm staged fruits of
the yellow and red Mirabelle Plums and some Apricots. A silver
Knightian medal was recommended.

Messrs. T. Rivers & Sons, Sawbridgeworth, sent a grand collection of
Apples, Apricots, Cherries, Nectarines, Plums, and Pears grown in a cool
orchard house ; Ribstou Pippin Apples were very fine and well coloured,
and Louise Bonne of Jersey, and Souvenir du Congres Pears looked
delicious. Lord Napier and Dryden Nectarines were exceedingly good,
being richly coloured, and the same may be said of Monarch and Late
and Early Transparent Gage Plums. The Cherries were Bigarreau Noir
de Gueben, Emperor Francis, and Geant d’Hedelfinger ; the Apricots
being Grosse Peche and Mexico (silver Knightian medal). Mr. W. H.
Divers, gardener to J. S. Hopwood, Esq., Ketton Hall, Stamford, sent
a box of remarkably fine Dagmar and Crimson Galande Peaches and
Lord Napier Nectarines. The Peaches were exceedingly good and re¬
flected credit on the grower (cultural commendation). Mr. 0. Thomas,
Royal Gardens, Windsor, staged a grand Smooth Cayenne Pine, cut
from “ a rootless sucker planted on September 15th, 1892.” The fruit
weighed 5 lbs. 12 ozs. (cultural commendation). Mr. Thomas also sent
a hunch of white Grapes for naming, and four baskets of Apricots, com¬
prising Moorpark, Frogmore, Shipley’s, and Powell’s Late.

Mr. Woodward, Barham Court Gardens, Maidstone, staged fruits of
Alexander Peach grown on an east wall, and some fine Lord Napier
Nectarines gathered from a standard tree in an unheated house (cultural
commendation). A dish of 1892 Apples came from Col. E. Smith,
Threescombe House, Stroud (gardener, Mr. E. Jackson), but the fruit
was small and uninviting compared with those of this year, sent by Mr.
Bunyard. Mr. T. W. Rich sent fruits of a seedling culinary Apple, said
to be very early. They were meelium-sized and well coloured on one
side, but no award was made. A. H. Smee, Esq., The Grange, Walling-
ton (gardener, Mr. G. W. Cummins), had a dish of a fine early Apple,
the name of which was not determined ; and Lord Foley, Ruxley
Lodge, Esher (gardener, Mr. Miller), some well grown fruits of Royal
George, Noblesse, Grosse Mignonne, and Alexander Peaches (cultural
commendation). Mr. Laxton, Bedford, showed coloured plates of his
new Strawberry Royal Sovereign.

Mr. G. Wythes, gardener to the Duke of Northumberland, Syon
House, Brentford, staged seventeen fruits of Beauty of Syon Melon,
six boxes of Apricots, and four boxes of Morello Cherries (silver Bank-
sian medal). Mr. J. Smith, Mentmore Gardens, Leighton Buzzard, had
half a dozen dishes of Apricots, including fine fruits of Moorpark and
Hemskirk (vote of thanks). Nine dishes of Apricots were also sent from
the Society’s Garden at Chiswick, the best fruits being Shipley’s Early,

78

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 37, 1893.

Kaisha, Moorpark, and Turkey. Seedling Melons were sent by Mr, F.
Lee, Lynford Hall, Norfolk, and Mr. J. Rodboume, Haling Park
Gardens, Croydon. An award of merit was adjudged for Melon Lee’s
Perfection, which is a good flavoured white-fleshed variety. Messrs.
Cooper, Denison & Walkden, 7, Bride Street, B.C,, sent some “ Handy ”
fruit baskets. These are made of tough Manilla paper, and with the
wire handles attached are convenient for small fruits (commended).

A large collection of Tomatoes, comprising thirty-four dishes, came
from the Society’s Gardens at Chiswick. The best red varieties were
Perfection, Long-keeper, Chemin, Seedling Macgregor, Horsford’s
Prelude, and the yellow varieties were well represented by Peach
Yellow, Blenheim Orange, Golden Queen, Golden Gem, and Golden
Nugget. Mr. J. May, gardener to S, G. Lutwyche, Esq., Oakfield, Eden
Park, Beckenham, sent a box of splendidly grown fruits of Perfection
Tomato (cultural commendation), Mr. G, M'Dougall, Ravenna Cottage,
Stirling, sent some fruits of a fine seedling Tomato named Ravenna, for
which a vote of thanks was accorded.

Floral Committee. — W. Marshall, Esq. (in the chair); Rev.
H. H. D'Ombrain, Messrs. C. T. Druery, H. B. May, H. Herbst,
David W, Thomson, R. Dean, G. Stevens, C. F. Bause, C, J. Salter,
H. Cannell, J. D. Pawle, W. Bennett Poe, C. E. Shea, C. E. Pearson,
T. Baines, O. Thomas, T. W. Girdlestone, and G. Gordon.

Messrs. E. D. Shuttleworth & Co., Albert Nurseries, Peckham Eye, sent
a collection of plants, among which Crotons Hawkeri, Lady Zetland,
Earl of Derby, Queen Victoria, Princess of Waldeck ; Ferns, Caladiums,
Dracfenas, Liliums, and Hydrangeas were most conspicuous (silver
Banksian medal). Messrs. J. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, staged a group
of miscellaneous plants. Amongst these were Palms, Tuberous Begonias,
Caladiums, and the pretty Saxifraga sarmentosa tricolor superba
(silver Flora medal). An award of merit was adjudged for Caladium
Le Nain Rouge, which is described below. Mrs. Darwin, The Grove,
Huntingdon Road, Cambridge, sent a Tuberous Begonia named Mrs.
Bourne, which attracted attention. An award of merit was adjudged
lor this variety, which is described elsewhere.

Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons sent a very beautiful collection of double
tuberous Begonias interspersed with Ferns, the plants having been raised
from seed in February. The invaluable Octavie formed a line at the
back. The varieties displayed great quality in respect to size and
colour (a silver Banksian medal was recommended). Messrs. J. Veitch
and Sons sent Eetinospora squarrosa sulphurea, Cupressus Lawsoniana
versicolor, four Gladioli x Lemoinei varieties, a charming basket of
single dwarf French Marigolds, the beautiful pale yellow Rhododendron
Sylvia, Lantana Drap d’Or, Carnation Celia, and Didymocarpus lacunosa
(botanical certificate). H. B. Domaille, Esq., La Colombelle, Guernsey,
sent a Carnation named La Villette, a yellow ground Fancy. Mr. P.
McArthur, Maida Vale, had a small collection of Ferns, foliage plants,
and Orchids (bronze Banksian medal). Mr. F. Roemer, Quedlinburg,
Germany, had the variegated Hop Humulus japonica variegatus. Car¬
nations came from L. de Bunsen, Esq., Mrs. Wickham, and Mr. F. Bull,
Colchester. The latter received an award of merit for Esmeralda.
(See below).

Mr. H. Eckford, Wem, Salop, sent a fine collection of Sweet Peas,
for which a silver Banksian medal was recommended. These were fresh
and highly coloured, the best being Novelty, Firefly, Senator, Mrs.
Gladstone, Lady Penzance, Emily Eckford (fine blue), Eliza Eckford,
and The Belle. Awards of merit were adjudged the two last named,
which are described elsewhere. Messrs. G. Paul & Sons, The Old
Nurseries, Cheshunt, sent a collection of hardy flowers, a dark flowered
Clematis of the Viticella type named “ Kermesana,” and a beautiful
Campanula Mariesi, for which a first-class certificate was awarded.
This is described elsewhere. Mr. W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall, Stamford,
sent a splendid collection of cut Carnations, tastefully arranged in
bunches on moss with their own foliage. Bunches of Ketton Rose were
much admired in this contribution. Other good varieties were Duchess
of Portland, Winter Cheer, Mead’s Crimson, and Rose of Rutland
(bronze Banksian medal). Mr. Anthony Waterer secured a first-class
certificate for Spirrna Anthony Waterer, which is mentioned elsewhere.

Orchid Committee. — Present : H. J. Veitch, Esq. (in the chair) ;
Dr. Masters, Messrs. J. O’Brien, H. Ballantine, T. W. Bond, T. Statter,
E. Hill, H. M. Pollett, and A. H. Smee.

The Orchids were not very numerous, but there were a few for
the specialists to find pleasure in. Messrs. Sander & Co. had a small
but very pleasing group flanked by the new foliage plant Strobilanthes
Dyerianus. The Orchids included Cypripedium Massaiana (superciliare
X Rothschildianum), the first hybrid yet flowered from the latter ;
C. Fausianum (Dauthieri X calophyllum superbum), C. hybridum
Youngianum, Zygopetalum (Promensea) xanthina, Mormodes pardinum,
Aerides Sanderiana, Cattleya Gaskelliana, C. granulosa, and Dendrobium
transparens (silver Banksian medal). Messrs. Pitcher & Manda sent a
pale form of Sobralia macrantha named Princess May. The sepals and
petals were nearly white, the lip a faint blush, and the throat lemon-
tinted. They also had Cypripedium Edwardi, which is described below.
Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son had a group of considerable beauty, fringed
and interspersed with Ferns. It included Platychinis filiforme, Anguloa
Ruckeri sanguinea, Cypripedium robusticum, C. Swanianum, C. superbum
DemidofE’s variety, Paphinia cristata grandis, and Pescatorea Dayana.

A silver Banksian medal was recommended.

T. Statter, Esq., Stand Hall, Manchester, sent several interesting plants,
such as Laelia elegans superbiens, L. prasiata, Cattleya Rex, C. crispa
superba (see below), Vanda lamalata, Cattleya Rex Stand Hall variety
(cultural commendation), and Lselia Amesiana. Mr. H. Denison, I

gardener to T. A. Gledstanes, Esq., Manor House, Gunnersbury, received
a cultural commendation for Cattleya superba splendens. Mr. Billington,
gardener to W. R. Lee, Esq., Audenshaw, Manchester, sent Cattleya
Gaskelliana Audenshaw variety (a fine form). Mr. Salter, gardener to
T. B. Haywood, Esq., Woodhatch Lodge, Reigate, contributed Miltonia
vexillaria Daisy Haywood, which received a first-class certificate and is
described below. H. Tate, jun.. Esq., Allerton, Liverpool, had Cypri¬
pedium Tryonianum (Harrisianum x superbiens, DemidofE’s variety),
and Cattleya Hardyana, Tate’s variety (see below). Messrs. W. L.
Lewis & Co. were represented by Cattleya Dowiana variety Lewisiana,
and C. gigas Turnbulliana.

Certificates and Awards of Merit.

Begonia Mrs. Bourne (Mrs. Darwin). — This is a curious break in
Tuberous Begonias. It is a vigorous growing variety with yellow
flowers, the petals of which have crimped edges, the sepals being
partially transformed into leaves (award of merit).

Caladium Le Nain Rouge (J. Laing «& Sons). — A dwarf-growing
variety with small red leaves flushed with green. For decorative
purposes it will be very useful (award of merit).

Campanula Mariesi (G. Paul & Son), — This is a charming Cam¬
panula of a dwarf habit of growth. A pan of it was shown, and the
plants were from 3 to 6 inches in height. The flowers are about
3 inches in diameter, and of a brilliant blue shade (first-class
certificate).

Cattleya Hardyana, Tate's variety (H. Tate, jun., Esq.). — A very
fine form, of great size, and rich in colour, the lip being particularly
prominent. The colour is rich maroon crimson with yellow side lobes
(award of merit) .

Carnation Esmeralda (Mr. F. Bull). — A yellow ground with slate-
coloured flakes, very distinct (award of merit).

Cupressus maerocarpa lutea (Dicksons, Limited). — A very beautiful
variety, the foliage being of a very distinct lurid yellowish green colour
(first-class certificate).

Cypripedmm Edwardi (Pitcher & Manda). — A cross between C.
Farrieanum and C. Veitchi. The petals are the chief feature of the
flower ; they are blunt and drooping, with greenish-white lines of
chocolate dots and fringed with hairs of the same colour ; dorsal sepal
greenish white with chocolate lines and flushed with rose towards the
edge (award of merit).

Lcelia crispa superha (T. Statter, Esq.). — A very fine form, a most
profuse bloomer, judging by the specimens, and with large flowers.
Sepals and petals pure white, lip rich purple (first-class certificate).

Melon. Lee's Perfection (F. Lee, Esq.) — This is a large, handsome white
flesh, fruit sweet and juicy and of good flavour (award of merit).

Miltonia vexillaria Daisy Haywood (T. B. Haywood, Esq.). — A
magnificent variety, flowers of great size and pure white, save for the
central patch of yellow (first-class certificate).

Spiraea Anthony Waterer (Anthony Waterer). — This is a dwarf¬
growing form of S. Bumalda, and the heads of bloom are deep crimson
(first-class certificate).

Sweet Pea Eliza Eckford. — A beautiful and distinct variety, with
white flowers tinted and flushed pink (award of merit).

Sweet Pea The Belle (H. Eckford). — A charming variety, with blush
flowers heavily flushed with rosy pink (award of merit).

Alpine Houses and Plants.

At the Drill Hall on Tuesday afternoon Mr. H. Selfe Leonard read
an admirable essay on the above subject, Mr. Geo. Paul occupying the
chair. The attendance was not very large, but it was evident that all
were deeply interested in what was said by the essayist, who, it needi
scarcely be said, dealt with his subject in a masterly manner.

Mr. Selfe Leonard, at the opening, pointed out that in his paper only
true Alpine plants would be referred to, and not such as had been
popularly called so, through their dwarf-growing habit and adaptability
for planting in rock gardens, but having no right whatever to the name,
which was only truly applicable to such plants as really grow on moun¬
tains in the temperate regions. From many years’ personal and close
study of Alpine plants the essayist had found that some artificial pro¬
tection was essential to real success, such protection to be supplementary
to the rock garden. It was not frost which was to be feared, for this, in
the essayist’s opinion, was practically harmless to the very large majority
of such plants which were grown in this country ; it was the cold rains
of the autumn and the cutting winds of the spring months which
played such havoc amongst the more tender plants under notice.

To demonstrate this reference was made to the well known
Alpine species of Primulas, first-rate collections of which were, he
said, far too seldom seen. For protecting these plants many
contrivances were called to the aid of growers, but that
most generally used was the ordinary garden light which, though
excellent in its way, had one serious disadvantage, for while keeping the
tops of the plants dry it allowed them in rainy weather to become sodden
at the roots, through the 'water constantly dripping off the sides and
front. Frames were also largely used, but these were very difficult to
adequately ventilate, a point of the utmost importance when the pro¬
tection of Alpine plants was under c ns’deration. A house specially
constructed for the purpose was recommended. In erecting such houses
the primary consideration was to provide an abundance of fresh air.
The houses which he had found to give the most satisfaction were built
with wooden sides and ends, almost flat entirely removeable roofs, with a
stage running down each side under which were shutters which, except

July 27, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

79

in very foegy weather, were kept always open. The houses were low
and the stages built up fairly close to the glass, as the plants were not
adapted for placing on low stages at a distance from the roof. Such
houses were built north and south and shaded by means of a wash being
put on the glass with the aid of a brush.

Shade was necessary for some plants — as, for example, the Ramondias.
which, when found growing in their native habitats, were always shaded.
As a further shading, and when the lights were, as was frequently the
case, entirely removed, he had canvas made to stretch the length of the
house, and this he had found very necessary during such intensely hot
weather as had been experienced during the past months. The inside
arrangements of such houses was purely a matter of taste, some pre¬
ferring to have the plants placed in a bed on the stages, and others, of
whom he was one, rather leaning towards keeping them in pots, as
the plants were more easily replaced when their beauty was on the
wane ; and besides, the soil which was known to be most suited to a

are depicted in the engraving, and these attracted some attention.
The bloom is medium-sized, white, covered with bright crimson spots.
The leaves are deep green, and about 3 inches in length.

In reference to your article on a “New Lilium” in your issue of
the 20th, kindly allow us to state that we believe that our exhibit was
entered before that of Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, and that the first-
class certificate was awarded to each, no distinction being made as
stated in your article. The naming of the Lilium was left to Mr.
Baker. We have written to the Royal Horticultural Society to confirm
our views, the matter being considered at their meeting. We consider
you should have illustrated the Lilyas L. Alexandrae, which name has
now been confirmed by Mr. Baker. We are afraid that we shall not be

Fig. 13— lilium LOWI.

plant could be much more readily accorded. Under the stages a rockery
could be formed, and such, when tastefully and skilfully arranged,
undoubtedly much enhanced the beauty of the house.

In erecting the house in the rock garden the existing formation
should receive consideration in order that the house might be placed in
such a position as not to become at any time unsightly, but rather be an
interesting and an additional charm. In ventilating houses of Alpine
plants near towns and where fogs were at all prevalent it was, said the
essayist, advisable that all the air admitted should be filtered through
wire gauze, which prevented much smoke and soot from finding a
resting place on the occupants of the house.

After a short discussion a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to
Mr. Leonard for his paper, and the meeting closed.

NEW LILIUMS.

A PLANT of Lilium Lowi, which is shown in the illustration (fig. 13),
was exhibited by Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Clapton, at the Exhibition
held on July 11th in the Gardens of the Royal Horticultural Society,
Chiswick. It is a very distinct and pretty Lily, and a first-class
certificate was awarded for it. The plant staged was about 3 feet in
height, and growing in a .l-inch pot. It bore two flowers such as ,

able to forward you the letter from the R.H.S. in time for this week’s
issue, but trust you will put the matter right. — Wallace & Co.

[We stated that “a first-class certificate was awarded in each
case.” Our artist sketched the flower of Messrs. Veitch’s plant, and we
naturally associated the name under which it was exhibited with the
illustration. We also indicated that the correct name had still to be
determined. Mr. Baker now gives it as Lilium japonicum var.
Alexandrse,]

BACTERIAL DISEASE IN TOMATOES.

Mr. Lock (page 49) has been rightly informed. I am far from
being a stranger to the disease, if disease it is, to which he alludes, but
have so wholesome a dread of the staying } owers of Mr. G. Abbey that
I would rather not cross swords with him just yet. When I have
thoroughly convinced myself, and am therefore in a position to convince
others, that Mr. Abbey has mistaken effect for cause, then, and not till
then, do I intend to enter fully into the subject. To all appearances
there is no necessity fer either Mr. Lock or other wholesale growers to
alarm themselves as to the work of any known bacteria among either
Tomatoes or Cucumbers.

If my advice is taken, Mr. Lock, and others who are equally

80

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 27, 1893.

interested, will not again invite a failure in one way in their attempts to
stear clear of another. Poverty of soil and insufficiency of moisture
have much to answer for this season. Why does Mr. Lock agree that
animat manure should be avoided, when, according to his own showing,
a use of it has been attended with the best of results ? I am of opinion
that we have been too sparing of solid manure, especially this year,
chemical or special manures being but poor reeds to lean upon in
tropical weather.^ — W. IgGtXTLDEN.

SCARLET RUNNER BEANS NOT SETTING.

I SHALL be glad to know the cause of Scarlet Runner Beans not
setting. I have never known them behave in the way they are now
doing. I called on my next neighbour (a market grower) to inquire
about his, and I found them just like my own. He tells me the com¬
plaint is pretty general in this neighbourhood. I am well aware that
Beans fail to set if they are dry at the root, but in my case and also
that of my neighbour they have not been so. I was not a little sur¬
prised to find that they did not respond to the waterings, as I have
always been able to procure Beans with the aid of the water-pot
in dry weather. I am even more surprised now, as for the past
fortnight we have had copious rain. I observe that humble bees are
scarce hereabout this season, and that the blossoms of Beans are not
pierced by them as is usual. Is the proboscis of the humble bee
necessary to effect the “ pollination” of Beans as is the case with some
Clovers 1 Hive bees do not work at Scarlet Runners much. Informa¬
tion will be very acceptable. — T. S., Bristol,

[We shall be glad to hear what correspondents have to say on the
subject.]

SILENE PENDULA.

The great beauty and effectiveness of this well-known plant when
employed in masses for spring bedding is invariably commented upon by
all who see it in full flower. There is, however, one objection frequently
advanced against its general use for the above purpose — viz., the com¬
paratively late period at which it flowers, this in many cases preventing
the planting of the summer occupants of the beds filled with the Silene
at the usual time. There is a great amount of truth in this objection,
but it is one which may to some extent be overcome by sowing the seed
early, and planting the young plants in their permanent quarters some
time during the following October. The usual time recommended for
sowing is early in August. This answers fairly well should the w'eather
during the following two months prove favourable for promoting rapid
growth, and if early autumn frosts are not prevalent ; but under
conditions the reverse of these the plants do not become strong
and well rooted in time for early planting. This operation is in conse¬
quence delayed till late in the autumn or early in the spring, the
result in either case being that their flowering period is unnecessarily
delayed. In order to avoid this undesirable state of affairs seed should
be sown at once in a sunny position.

T generally sow thinly in drills 9 inches apart. When the plants
are large enough to handle they are pricked in beds, allowing 4 inches
of space between each plant, and should the weather prove dry they
are kept well watered till established. The only after-treatment neces¬
sary to secure good plants by October is to eradicate all weeds in a
young state, and occasionally stir the surface of the soil with a small
hoe. Well-rooted plants with good halls of earth attached are thus
obtained, which, having been grown sturdily from the first, are able to
withstand the frost of severe winters, and with the advent of warm
spring "weather start at once into growth, and begin to flower as
early as the climatic conditions of each locality and season render
possible. — H. Dha’kin.

CHATSWORTH.

Whether Chatsworth under the Chester rhgime differs much or
little from the Chatsworth of Speed and Thomas must be left for
deeision to those whose visits are not, like my own, limited to the first
figure of the numerical system, but who have seen it under its various
chiefs. Probably so vast a place, of which the working arrangements
must necessarily be in the hands of permanent departmental foremen,
changes little year by year, but as to that I can say nothing. My
reference to the great Cavendish demesne must be limited to a few
impressions made while its famous gardens rest under the charge of Mr.
Chester, and as a result of a road journey thither in the midst of the
terrific heat of late June in the present year of grace. To refer to it
at all seems to be repeating an oft-told tale, but “other times, other
manners,” other minds, other thoughts, and perchance some fresh
ground may be broken as the result of a pleasant summer ramble
through some of the loveliest scenery in England — from smoky Sheffield
to beautiful Baslow and Edensor.

It was my misfortune to arrive at Chatsworth a few minutes after some
friends had taken the head gardener under their protecting wings and
carried him away. I had had a foretaste of this sort of thing in Sheffield
the day before, when I struggled through the sweltering heat up to
Rough Bank in search of Ben Simonite, found that he had moved
farther afield up Attercliffe way ; sought him there, and at length dis¬
covered his garden only to learn that the worthy old florist was out in
the town somewhere. A second edition of this within a few hours was
too much, but there was no help for it. I was too late. But fortune

did not altogether desert me. The plant foreman, Mr. G. Ridout, came
to the rescue, and proved to be a capable and entertaining guide. He
has been at Chatsworth more years than some young ladies would own
to having existed, loves it well, and knows its every feature and charm.
Herewith, at the outset, I gratefully acknowledge his able and patient
guidance.

In the Bosom of the Hills.

There are many approaches to Chatsworth, but it is difficult to
imagine one more beautiful than that from Sheffield, which takes the
traveller by Fox Houses and Froggatt Edge to Baslow and the Derwent
Valley. The road goes upward for many tedious and dusty miles from
the cutlery metropolis, winding gradually into cloudland, and then
there comes the turning point — the point where the peaks tower up
around and look on the green depths far below. The road winds round
the side of the hills, downward now, downward for mile after mile
through the bosom of the hills, with the grim rocks above and the
smiling valley beneath. The former hang sheer over the road in some
places, but there are no waters to loosen their hold or masses of snow to
bring them crashing down. The peaks glide by one by one in majestic
array. To an eye that has not rested on the gleaming Silberhorn or the
sublime Jungfrau they must be of absorbing interest, and the temptation
to turn in the saddle and gaze on each giant as it recedes into the rear
is too strong to be resisted, even when flying at breathless speed down
the winding hillside, with the dizzy slope down to the valley but a few
feet away. It is a picture not often seen, not soon to be forgotten. What
dreary grandeur there must be in it in the winter time, when the fierce
winds sweep through the valleys and the tors are robed in their winding
sheets. But that is in the past and in the future, not in the sunlit,
gilded present. Now the great hills smile, and their magnificence
retains all its hold upon the mind when at length Baslow, nestling in the
valley, is reached, the Derwent crossed, and Chatsworth close at hand.

Is Chatsvtorth Beautiful ?

I ask the question in all seriousness, and with a reason. In a book
from whieh I shall presently quote there are references which might
lead to the belief that the pride of Derbyshire is but a poor apology for
a beautiful domain — cockneyfied, artificial, and commonplace. We who
have read of it ehiefly from the gardening point of view have surely
formed no such opinion as that. Have gardening writers, therefore,
given us misleading impressions ? Is the reputation that it enjoys, as
one of the fairest spots of our “isle inviolate,” false? Should we no
longer look upon it, as we have done for all these years, as one of the
foremost places in the land ? Fresh indeed would be the ground broken
if I were to study Chatsworth from such a standpoint, and, setting at
defiance all established ideas of its beauty and greatness, proceed to
show that it is vulgar and inartistic. But no such task is mine. I call
attention to such a view publicly expressed with the object of showing,
as I hope, that it is inaccurate and untenable. Let us read : —

A Criticism and a Defence.

“ If,” says Baddeley’s “Guide to the Peak District” in its reference
to the Chatsworth Gardens, “ we once admit that Art does not outstep
its provinee in entering into direct competition with Nature in Nature’s
own department, that there is nothing impertinent in the cockney
pleasantry that a beautiful landscape is almost equal to the transforma¬
tion scene in a pantomime, we may derive unmixed pleasure from the
Chatsworth Gardens.” One may be forgiven if he pauses and rubs his
eyes over such words as these. Even while admiring the cleverness of
their construction, no one can fail to recognise that a tremendous
indictment is being levelled at the place of which a description is being
given, and naturally seeks to ascertain what has prompted them. But
before proceeding to that the writer tells us that Nature is gracious and
kind. “ In some parts of them ” (the gardens), he goes onto say, “ Art
has almost become a second Nature, so forgiving a spirit has the latter
manifested in overgrowing hand-built rockeries with her own green
livery.” And then we learn what is the head and front of the offend¬
ing. There is a long cascade in the grounds near the house — a made
cascade, a cascade such as that in the grounds of the Crystal Palace,
with broad stages of stone, each a yard or so below the other, so that the
water when “ on ” may go plunging down, making a series of miniature
falls. This grievous thing appears to have had a large share in exercis¬
ing the soul of the Guide writer, and the evil work was furthered by a
tree of copper, so cunningly contrived that the turning of a tap in a
quiet corner near causes water to gush from its stems, and squirt around
on unwary visitors like a Californian “ sprinkler ” on a bed of Radishes.
Well, the tree is an absurd fancy of course, and the cascade artificial and
indefensible; butadmittingboth, whatisto be saidof the person to whose
mind these things constitute the gardens of Chatsworth? Vain, it
would seem, are the thousands of magnificent Conifers, rearing their tall
spires to the clouds, the flower bordered lakes, the huge, the gorgeous
masses of Rhododendrons clothing the hillsides, the banks of wild
Roses, the Fern-filled dells. All that makes what to visitors who know
and love beautiful gardens is a dream and a delight must be blotted out
to leave room for a paltry satire, founded chiefly on a stone cascade and
a eopper tree 1 To absurdity so sublime, to ignorance so colossal, as
are evidenced in the description of Chatsworth Gardens from which I
have quoted, it would surely be futile to suggest that these are but weak
fragments of a great, a powerful, a magnificent whole.

The Victoria House.

Were it only for the Victoria house, Chatsworth would be well worth
a visit. There is something in its very originality which strikes one.

July 27, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

81

and its breadth and boldness of treatment fit the place. Older and
more travelled horticnlturists than myself have perhaps met its counter¬
part, but to me it had all the charm and delight of something that is at
once strikingly beautiful and entirely fresh. The greater part of it is
occupied by the central basin, and in the middle of that was a plant of
the famed Victoria regia with half a dozen leaves 6 feet across. It had
started from a small plant put out in April, about two months before I
saw it. This will give an idea of the rapidity of its growth. It was not
in bloom, but other beautiful aquatics were. The lovely Nymphsa
Devoniana, with its bronzy leaves and brilliant carmine flowers, and
the pale blue N. Daubenyana, were two of the most beautiful, but the
ivory-hued N. dentata, and the pale lemon odorata sulphurea, with its
rich orange centre, were also greatly admired . Wheels turned by the
water flowing from taps above them keep the whole volume in
motion. Coleuses, large and small, splendidly coloured, line the top
of the wall, but immeasurably the most striking objects in the
house, apart from the Victoria, are the superb baskets of Achimenes
suspended in the air, as may be seen on reference to the engraving
fig. Id. The largest are 4 feet high and the same through, living
masses of the richest colours. Nelumbium speciosum is largely
represented in one of the side basins. The plants trained up the
sides are not passed by without admiration. Gloriosa superba is in
such condition as to richly merit its name. Thunbergias are producing
showers of blossom, and a less familiar plant in Stigmaphyllon ciliatum
exhibits rare beauty.

The Fehit Houses.

These, like the Victoria house and several plant structures, are in
the kitchen garden, which is some distance from the mansion and its
grounds. A grand house of Pines, in which Queen and Smooth Cayenne
are largely represented, is sufficient evidence that these noble but
tortoise-like fruits have not been abandoned, as is the case in so many
places. Cucumbers are grown on an enormous scale, and the last of
the batches of forced Strawberries, which collectively would number
from 2000 to 3000, was seen. Amongst the vineries is an old structure
on the ridge and furrow system built in Sir Joseph Paxton’s time. The
Vines, which are planted outside, still yield good bunches. There are
four houses of Frankenthal alone, which was the late Duke’s favourite
Grape, and in his preference for it he displayed, as in so many other
things, good sense and taste. That the Vines have sound material on
which to feed, and good management to enable them to make the most
of it, is proved by a house of Hamburghs four years old and another of
Foster’s Seedling three years old. Both have splendid foliage, and the
latter in particular have made wonderful growth. There is a grand crop
of Muscats in another large house. The Peach houses are, for the most
part, very wide structures. One old flue-heated house 40 yards long
was once filled with a single tree. They are full of fruit, the trees
being models of good training, health, cleanliness, and cropping. It
would be almost invidious to single out any varieties for special men¬
tion, but Goshawk and Koyal George deserve it. Figs are splendidly
grown, and so are Melons. There is a house of young plants of the
latter, such as is very rarely to be met with. Hero of Lockinge, Wm.
Tillery, Blenheim Orange, Bead’s Scarlet Flesh, and The Countess are
all largely represented.

The Plant Houses.

What may be termed the show houses for plants are in the grounds
near the mansion, but the nursery is in the kitchen garden. A thousand
Chrysanthemums are here grown for cut flowers, and double Primulas
are also in strong force. Streptocarpuses of the excellent Veitchian
strain are turned to a good use, being grown in 3-inch pots and employed
as edgings. With a pinch of Clay’s fertiliser now and then by way of a
stimulant they flower beautifully. I was much struck with a Justiceous
plant, Crossandra infundibuliformis, which I had not previously seen.
It has large double flowers bearing a strong likeness to those of a Zinnia,
salmon in colour, and lanceolate leaves. It had been in bloom for two
months at the time of my call, and is unquestionably a very useful plant
worth growing in many other places. The Chatsworth foreman spoke
highly of it. I must pass over the other plants in the nursery depart¬
ment to say a word or two about those near the house. There is an
excellent collection of Orchids, the Vandas in particular being extremely
fine, quite reminding one of the magnificent plants of Messrs. B. S.
Williams & Son, and Mr. Measures of Camberwell, which is as high praise
as could be given. There are also some splendid pieces of the beautiful
Thunia Marshalli, and a very fine collection of Calanthes, Cypripediums,
and Cattleyas. Angrsecum eburneum, too, is well represented. A good
assortment of Heaths provides a source of interest to lovers of hard-
wooded plants. It would be impossible to refer individually to all the
plants that are well grown, but Eucharises call for a special reference,
as do Tuberoses, which are splendidly flowered in 4-inch pots. Of table
plants there is a grand collection. The Camellia house, with its huge
plants, 20 feet high, must be a wonderful sight when its giants are
smothered with flowers. What is termed the Portland Walk is a beau¬
tiful promenade by the side of a lofty wall covered with a glass case.
It must be quite 150 yards long, and the whole of the wall is covered
with climbers and creepers, such as Fuchsias, Tea Roses, Abutilons,
Veronica Andersoni, and Zonal Pelargoniums.

The Geeat Conseevatoet.

The critical Guide writer’s description of the conservatory can hardly
be called comprehensive, but it is decidedly quaint. “ It is,” he says,
“ nearly 300 feet long, 120 feet wide, and 60 feet high. In it the rarest

exotics, from the Fan Palm, gaunt and heavy topped, to the Maidenhair
Fern, the most beautiful thing in the building, find a congenial home.
There is one Cactus-like plant — the American Aloe — which is fabled to
take 100 years to flower, and then to die.” That is all. This lucid
description is interesting from the information given as to the dimen¬
sions of the great structure. It is truly a wonderful building, but as it
is now undergoing complete repair I did not see it at its best. It con¬
tains a remarkable collection of plants, amongst them being the blue
Adamia cyanea, huge Cinnamons, Theophrasta imperialis, with its fine
broad leaf ; Inga pulcherrima, a Sensitive Plant ; Cibotium princeps
25 feet high, Heritiera macrophylla. Begonia fuchsiodes 20 feet high,
Dasylirion acrotrichum 9 feet high, growing luxuriantly close to a pool ;
grand pieces of Platycerium alcicorne. Bamboos, Yuccas, a splendid
collection of Cacti, including some beautiful seedlings ; Corypha
australis 65 feet high, the top of which has been through the roof ;
C. umbellifera, 60 feet ; Encephalartos Kaffira (the Kaffir Palm), of

FIG. 14.— A BASKET OP ACHIMENES.

which there are two noble plants ; Monstera deliciosa fruiting well ;
Renanthera coccinea 18 feet high, and with four spikes of its rich red
flowers ; and a gigantic Seaforthia elegans 60 feet high in seed. Other
objects of admiration are the basket Ferns, the many beautiful pools,
the almost precipitous walls of stones and Ferns, the cases of Filmies,
the Bananas (from one of which a 72 lb. cluster has been cut), and the
Tree Fern stems spangled over with the beautiful berries of Nertera
depressa, which spread over the moss that covers the stem when planted
and now produce a beautiful effect.

The Flowee and Wild Gaedens.

I need only make a passing reference to the Italian or west front
garden near the mansion, with its conspicuous masses of pink China
Roses and golden Yews, or to the French garden near the Portland Walk,
with its Moss Roses, Pinks, Violas, and other flowers, but the grounds
and wild garden call for fuller notice. From the lake, with its famous
fountain, which when in full swing uses 1000 gallons of water a minute,
grand views can be obtained. The surrounding country presents a
beautiful picture, the white waters of the Weir flash in the sunlight, and
Edensor Church may be seen nestling among the trees. Splendid Beeches
dot the rising ground near the conservatory, and wild Roses clothe the
banks. At one point there is a precipitous wall 40 feet high, from the
face of which near the summit water gushes. Moss and Ivy mantling
the stones. Paths wind up to higher ground, where huge breadths of
Rhododendrons flourish. Sheffielders tell me that in spring they make

82

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 27, 183S.

pilgrimages to see the wondrous sight when the broad masses are in
bloom, and that their beauty is indescribable. I can well believe it, for
my mind recalls the extraordinary picture in the late Mr. McIntosh’s
garden at VVeybridge, where there could not have been a third of the
plants which clothe the hillsides at Chatsworth. Beautiful salmon-
coloured masses of Ghent Azaleas also arrest attention, and here and
there a pause has to be made to admire a noble Conifer. A splendid
Pinus nobilis 60 feet high overhangs a lake, and not far away are a
grand pair of Abies orientalis 30 to 40 feet high. A wonderful specimen
•of A. Douglasi, which had an altitude of nearly 70 feet, has unfortunately
been torn by the wind. A. Nordmanniana, 30 feet high, is very beautiful
in the tender hue of its young growths. Cryptomeria japonica is
splendidly represented, as are Araucarias, 'Firs, Larches, and Austrian
Pines. The lake referred to with its dotting of yellow Irises and border
of Willow Herbs and yellow Broom is a beautiful picture.

In the trees, shrubs and flowers, in the banks, glades and dells, there
is a diversity of beauty and interest which no pen could describe. It is
not a tree, but a thousand trees, not rods, but acres of wild garden and
woodland with their countless numbers of shrubs, ferns and flowers
which have to be seen before the mind can form a conception of the
beauties and glories of Chatsworth. My pleasure in the visit was shared
by hundreds of excursionists from Sheffield, Manchester, and other places,
and I am told there is a similar influx every day. I turn from an
imperfectly fulfilled task with the sense that this noble place must
exercise powerful influences for good in opening up conceptions of the
beautiful to thousands of toilers to whom the joys of gardening are,
from circumstances beyond their control, forbidden. — W. P. W.

HORTICULTURAL SHOWS.

TRENTHAM. — July 20th.

When it is considered that the annual exhibitions held in the
Ducal Grounds of Trentham are the outcome of the local Cottage
Garden Society we are foreibly reminded of the truth of the axiom that
“ Great results from little causes spring.” The first attempt at extension,
a very few years ago, was prompted by a desire to provide more
attractive features than a cottagers’ show could afford, and the results
have exceeded the most sanguine anticipations. But while the general
exhibitions of high class produce in the form of the artistic arrange¬
ments of plants, great displays of Roses and other cut flowers, and superior
fruit have attained national fame, the original object of the society has
not been lost sight of, and the greatest number of classes are still to be
found in the amateurs’ and cottagers’ portion of the schedule. Moreover,
the prizes offered in these classes considerably exceed the average value
of the majority that are provided in shows of this nature. This is tery
satisfactory, and it is also gratifying to observe that the competition in
these classes increases and improves from year to year. The society is
therefore accomplishing the object it was established to promote — better
tilled gardens and more attractive home surroundings in the district.

Geoups of Plants.

With that reference to what may be termed the foundation of the
Show, we pass to the general exhibits as being of wide general interest.
It may be premised that no prizes are offered for large specimen plants
at Trentham, but instead special attention is devoted to groups. For
these the prizes offered exceed those in a similar class at any show in
the kingdom, and as a consequence the competition is the best that can
be produced. Perhaps nothing could better indicate the superiority of
the groups that were arranged last week than the fact of the formidable
Mr. Cypher being placed in the third position, and surely never before
did such a beautiful arrangement fail to win a higher place. Still, the
prize was not small. The first prize provided in this 300 feet space
arrangement was £20 with a “special,” value £10 10s., added ; second
prize, £20; third, £13 ; fourth, £9 ; or a total of no less than £70 10s.
in this one class. That is the way to secure the highest competition,
and the groups arranged were worth a long journey to see.

The fortunate winners of those prizes were the Duke of St. Albans
(gardener, Mr. J. Edmonds), first ; J. H. Manners Sutton, Esq.
(gardener, Mr. Webb), second ; Mr. Cypher third ; and C. H. Wright,
Esq. (gardener, Mr. Roberts), fourth. The character of the groups may
be briefly referred to, anything like a detailed description of them being
out of the question. The space appeared to have been set out in
squares. Mr. Edmonds occupied his with a magnificent Kentia as a
central plant, elevated on a mound of Ferns, from which sprung, with
telling effect, noble scarlet heads of Hsemanthus. There were some
eight or nine smaller mounds, in some of which single-stemmed, well
grown, and highly coloured Crotons commanded attention ; in others
were graceful Palms, and in one a beautiful plant of Dracaena indivisa
Yariegata. At the base of these elevated plants were Ferns interspersed
with flowers, such as Begonias, a few Orchids, and Francoas, but this
was lightly done, while Caladium argyrites and variegated Grasses
were placed here and there in the miniature dells between the eleva¬
tions. Richness, with freedom, was the prevailing characteristic of the
group ; but if it had a fault it was just a little overdone, but still a
beautiful arrangement, or it would not have won its high position at the
hands of such Judges as Messrs. Bruce Findlay, F. Sander, and John
Wills.

Mr. Webb’s arrangement was similar in character, and he ran his
rival closely. He formed a bold mound right in the foreground,
surmounted by a noble Palm, and had smaller mounds near the corners
occupied with handsome foliage plants, including splendid Crotons ;

scarlet Anthuriums, and other flowers, associated with Ferns, Panicums,
and Caladiums, enlivened the group, which was undoubtedly a good one,
but the background perhaps a little weak. Mr. Webb must be regarded
as a formidable competitor in classes of this nature.

Mr. Cypher’s group was wholly different. It was composed of a
clear groundwork of moss with a large central and smaller front mounds
of Orchids arranged round a Palm in each case. There was plenty of
space between the mounds, in which a pair ol Tiger Lilies were effective :
but the group was undoubtedly weakened by small patches of blue
Lobelias, and the linking of the front mounds by a formal chain of
Caladium argyrites did not strengthen the arrangement. The back¬
ground was composed of Hydrangea paniculata. Crotons, and slender
Bamboos — too light for the position, and not a sufficient foil to the
plants in the foreground. Formalism is a cardinal fault in arranging
plants for effect in the eyes of most experienced judges.

Mr. Roberts’ group in the class under notice was similar in style to
the first and second prize arrangements, but rather too many plants
were employed, and the leading features did not stand out so clearly as
is desirable, though the group was superior to many that have w’on first
honours at many shows. In the local group class the chief prize was
won by J. P. Maddock, Esq. (Mr. G. H. Smith, gardener), a background
of well grown specimen plants, with a free undulated arrangement in
front — and altogether a creditable display. The whole of the groups
made a show in themselves of great attractiveness to the crowds of
visitors.

Feuit and Vegetables.

Not less important and meritorious was the display of fruit, and
nothing approaching it in extent and quality had been se«n at any
show of the season. The prizes were good — £10, £6, and £3 being
offered for nine dishes, and £6, £3, and £2 for six dishes, also similar
amounts for four bunches of Grapes, while sufficient inducements were
provided to bring plenty of entries in the smaller classes. The numbers
show this clearly, and the list is worth giving. In the nine dish class
there were seven entries ; for six dishes, nine ; for four bunches of
Grapes, fourteen ; for three bunches of Black Hamburghs, twenty-one ;
for three of any other black Grape, seventeen ; for three Muscats,
eleven ; for three of any other white Grape, sixteen ; for a green flesh
Melon, twenty ; scarlet flesh, seventeen ; Peaches and Nectarines,
fourteen each ; and Cherries, ten entries. A sufficient foundation it will
be admitted for a fine show, and a fine show it was, though, of course,
all the fruit brought was not staged, and the Committee will have to
consider the desirability of providing more prizes in these classes.

In the large class for nine dishes, including three bunches each of
black and white Grapes, a Melon, and a Pine, Mr. J. Mclndoe, The
Gardens, Hutton Hall, was first with a splendid collection, fine Muscat
and good Gros Maroc Grapes, excellent Bellegarde Peaches, Humboldt
Nectarines, Negro Largo Figs, Souvenir du Congres Pears, and a fine
cluster of well ripened Bananas. This collection was also granted a
valuable pedestal and vase offered for the “ most meritorious exhibit in
the Show,” and Mr. Mclndoe went home happy. Mr. J. Goodacre was
second in this class, his Black Hamburgh Grapes and Elruge Nectarines
being very good indeed. Mr. Dawes, Temple Newsam, third with well-
grown produce.

In the class for six dishes Mr. G. Reynolds, Gunnersbury Park, had
the honour of placing Mr. Mclndoe in the second position, sufficient
proof that Messrs. Rothschild’s fruit was of high merit. The Muscat
and Black Hamburgh Grapes were particularly good, and a fine Melon
had much weight. Mr. Edmonds followed, but not far distant, with
excellent fruit.

Mr. Crawford, gardener to J. Grant Morris, Esq., secured the premier
position with four bunches of Grapes in two distinct kinds with superior
examples of Madresfield Court and Black Hamburghs. Mr. Alsopp,
gardener to Lord Hotham, was a close second with finely finished
Muscats and Buckland Sweetwater; third, Mr. J. Wilkes, gardener to
Mrs. Meaken, Cresswell Hall, the Hamburghs being finely finished. For
three bunches of Black Hamburghs the prizes went in order to Mr, J. G.
Morris, Mr. J. Roberts (Gunnersbury), and Rev. Bulkeley Owen, all
staging admirable examples of culture. In the any other black class,
Mr. A. G. Young (Tanybryn, North Wales) well won the first place with
grand full bunches of Muscat Hamburghs (also awarded a special for
the best three bunches of Grapes in the Show), Mr. Grant Morris
second, and Mr. J. Edmonds third, both with Madresfield Court in
admirable condition. In the Muscat class Mr. Alsopp was clearly first,
Mr. N. C. Curyan second, and Mr. J. Hudson third. Both bunches and
berries were very good in this class, but the date evidently too early
for general high finish. In the any other white class Mr. Alsopp again
took the lead with remarkably fine Buekland Sweetwater, Mr. Banner-
man following with good Duke of Buccleuch, Lord Carnarvon’s
gardener being third with Bucklands. The special prizes offered by
Messrs. W. Innes & Co. for three bunches of any variety grown with
“Fertilitas” were won first by Mr. W. Elphinstone, Shipley Hall
Gardens, with noble specimens of Cannon Hall. Second, the Earl of
Shrewsbury, with Madresfield Court ; third, N. C. Curzon, Esq , with
Black Hamburghs. It may be added that Mr. Elphinstone cut thirty
similar bunches of Cannon Hall at the same time from one Vine with
three rods—a noteworthy achievement, if not unparalleled, in a gentle¬
man's garden. Mr. Miller Mundy should be proud of his Vine. The
display of Grapes in the above classes was magnificent, and dozens of
exhibits not in the charmed circle would have been well within it at
most shows held during the present year.

In the green fieshed Melon class Mr. Gcodacre was first with the

July 2r, 1393. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

83

<Jountes5, and Mr. Wilkes was first in the scarlet flesh class. The names of
the other prizewinning varieties could not be obtained. The best Peaches
were shown by Mr. G-ilman, Violette Ilative, and the best Nectarines
from Bretly Park. Further details not procurable in the crowied tent,
and a mere list of prizewinners without varieties is of small interest.

Roses and Special Exhibits.

Mr. Wilkins, gardener to Lady Theodore Guest, was the most success¬
ful exhibitor of vegetables for Messrs. Taylor’s, Sutton’s, and Webb’s
prizes, one of his collections winning the medal for the best example of
good culture in the Show. Mr. J. Waite closely followed in most
of the classes wdth excellent produce.

Roses were undoubtedly the centre of attraction in the cut-flower
department, and considering the season the display was remarkable.
In the class for forty-eight blooms, distinct, Messrs. Harkness were
first with A. K. Williams, Earl of Dufferin, Mrs. John Laing,
Madame Hausman, A. Rigotard, Marie Baumann, Madame E. Verdier,
Chas. Lefebvre, J. S. Mill, Ulrich Brunner, Fisher Holmes, Exposition
de Brie, Horace Vernet, Eclair, Madame Chas. Crapelet, Duchess of
Bedford, Edouard Andre, and Countess of Rosebery as the leading
blooms. H. Merryweather second with very bright blooms, those most
noteworthy being Ulrich Brunner, Sir G. Wolseley, F. Holmes, Thomas
Mills, Gloire de Margottin, Pierre Netting, Her Majesty, Souvenir d’Elise,
Horace Vernet. Messrs. R. Mack & Sons, Catterick, third.

With thirty-six distinct blooms Messrs. Harkness were again first,
winning the National Rose Society’s gold medal. Best varieties. — Mrs.
J. Laing, A. K. Williams, Gustave Piganeau, Charles Lefebvre, Marie
Rady, Duchesse de Morny, Alfred Colomb, Etienne Levet, Senateur
Vaisse, J. S. Mill, Duke of Edinburgh, Madame Hausmann, Horace
Vernet, S. M. Rhodocanachi, Louis Van Houtte, The Bride, Earl of
Dufferin, Duke of Teck, E. Hausberg, and B. Y. Teas. Messrs.
Jas. Cocker & Sons, Aberdeen, second. Her Majesty, Caroline Kuster,
A. Soupert, Mrs. J. Laing, Comtesse de Nadaillac, and Margaret Dickson
being very good. Third Messrs. Mack & Sons. Twenty-four distinct,
three blooms each, first Messrs. Harkness & Sons, the best triplets
being Alfred Colomb, Mrs. John Laing, Duke of .Edinburgh, H. Vernet,
Queen of Queens, Harrison Weir, Fisher Holmes, Pride of Waltham,
Prince Arthur, A. K. Williams, Ulrich Brunner, Chas. Lefebvre, Countess
of Rosebery. Second Mr. H. Merryweather, the best blooms being
Gustave Piganeau, A. K. Williams, Mrs. John Laing, Catherine Mermet,
La France, Ulrich Brunner. Third Messrs. Mack & Sons.

In the class for twelve single dark velvety Roses Mr. H. Frettingham,
Beeston, was first with Pierre Netting, Messrs. Harkness second with
Reynolds Hole, and Messrs. D. & W. Croll, Dundee, with Prince Arthur.
Not a good class. Twelve blooms light Roses (much better), first
Messrs. D. & W. Croll, second Messrs. Harkness, third Messrs. Perkins
and Sons, Coventry, all staging Mrs. John Laing. Twelve Roses, any
colour, first Messrs. Harkness, Alfred Colomb, fine ; second Messrs.
Croll, M. Baumann, good ; third Messrs. Mack & Sons, A. K. Williams.

Eighteen Teas and Noisettes, first Messrs. Cocker & Sons, Aberdeen,
with Princess of Wales, F. Kruger, Rubens, Ethel Brownlow, Madame
Hole, Souvenir d’un Ami, Madame Lambard, The Bride, Comtesse de
Nadaillac, S. A. Prince, Cleopatra, Souvenir d’Elise, Madame Cusin,
Madame Bravy, and Innocente Pirola. Second Messrs. Croll, Dundee.
Third Mr. Merryweather. Twelve distinct Teas or Noisettes, three
blooms each, first Messrs. Cocker & Sons, Aberdeen, with Rubens,
Cleopatra, S. A. Prince, The Bride, Hon. E. Gifford, Madame Lambard,
very good. Second Messrs. Harkness & Sons. Third Messrs. Croll.

Other cut flowers in competition must perforce be passed with the
remark that Messrs. Jenkinson Sons, Newcastle, Staffordshire,
exhibited splendid bouquets, defeating Messrs. Perkins in all the classes
— a notable feat.

Silver medals were awarded for special exhibits — namely, Messrs.
Birkenhead, Cutbush, Laing & Mather, Dobbie & Sons, Hewitt & Co.,
Smith (Worcester) and Edmunds (Nottingham) for their specialties. A
bronze medal was awarded to Messrs. Pearson & Sons, Chilwell, for a
richly coloured Gloxinia, and a first class certificate and silver Banksian
medal to Messrs. F. Sander & Co. for their distinct new plant with large
blue tinted leaves, Strobilanthus Dyerianus.

We are glad to learn that though several thousands of persons, by kind
permission of the Duke of Sutherland, passed through the Trentham
grounds not the slightest damage was done to anything. Improvements
are visible everywhere. The Duchess, as is well known, is a great lover
of flowers, and the gardens of Trentham may be expected to become
still more famed for their interest and beauty.

PRESCOT.— JULY 20th.

The ninth annual Exhibition of the Prescot Horticultural Society
was held on Thursday in Knowsley Park. Charming weather prevailed,
and there were close upon 200 entries more than last year. A most
effective circular group of plants was arranged by Mr. J. Bounds,
gardener toA.L. Jones, Esq., Oaklands, Aigburth, and this exhibitor was
awarded first prize ; the second prize went to Mr. R. Pinnington,
gardener to Mrs. Banner, Blacklow House, Roby. The leading prize for a
group 60 square feet, went to Mr. H. McFall, gardener to E. C. Leventon,
Esq., Oakfield, Roby.

For six stove and greenhouse plants there was a close run between
Messrs. Bounds and Pinnington, the Judges deciding in favour of the
former. For Fuchsias, and Zonal Geraniums, Mr. Leith, gardener to Mrs.
Ihler, staged wonderful examples, the Ivy-leaved Geraniums being 7 feet
high, and the Fuchsias were not formally trained, although 9 feet high.
The prize for six stove and greenhouse Ferns went to Mr. R. Pinnington for

fine specimens. Double and single Begonias were admirable, both prizes
being taken by Mr. .T. Humphreys, gardener to E. S. Eccles, Esq., The
Oichard, Huy ton. The prizes for Gloxinias, Cockscombs, and Liliums went
to Messrs. Learmont, McFall, and T. Eaton, gardener to J. Parrington,
Esq., Roby Mount. For Petunias and Coleus Mr. W. Gibbs, gardener to
G. T. Gripper, Esq., Roby, was successful. Roses call for little comment.
James Berry, Esq., Prescot, took honours for eighteen, and was second
in twelve, the first being taken by Mr. W. Wharton, gardener to
J. Royston, Esq., The Orchard, Huyton. In classes for Pansies,
collections of cut flowers outdoors, double and single Dahlias, bouquets,
»ix Roses in pots, and model garden, the following were successful —
Messrs. Pownall, Eaton, Humphreys, Bounds, and Donnelly.

Fruit was well shown, Mr. W. Oldham, gardener to J. Beecham, Esq.,
Ewanville, Huyton, taking first for four dishes of fruit, with Buckland
Sweetwater and Black Hamburgh Grapes, Gros Mignonne Peaches, and
Scarlet Premier Melons, Mr. Eaton and Mr. Pinnington being excellent
second and third. The prizes for two bunches Black Hamburgh, two
any other black, and dish of Nectarines went to Mr. J. Barker, gardener
to J. W. Raynes, Esq., Rock Ferry, for perfect samples of Madresfield
Court and Pineapple. For two bunches of Muscats, and two bunches
of any other white, Mr. E. Blythian, gardener to Mrs. Baxter, The
Towers, Rainhill, was a good first, Mr. Oldham being second. For
Melons, Peaches, Cherries, Black, Red, and White Currants, Raspberries,
Gooseberries, and Apples, the following secured the awards — Messrs.
Ferguson, Eaton, Tyrer, W. A. Allan, Barker, Gibbs, Cook, Aindow,
Hughes, and Bounds. Vegetables were grandly shown, the first for
collection of twelve varieties being taken by Mr. J. Case, whilst Mr.
R. Pinnington took that offered by Mr. H. Middlehurst, seedsman,
Manchester Street, Liverpool. Mr. Jno. Young, the President, and Mr.
Robert Rigby, the courteous Secretary, and Committee are worthy of
every commendation for the hard work they performed.

HUYTON AND ROBY.

The first Exhibition of this newly formed Society was held last
week in a field adjoining the new Local Board offices, and more than
realised the expectations of the Committee and visitors alike. Over
£80 had been offered in prizes for groups fruit, plants, and vegetables,
besides a fine silver challenge cup to be w'on two years in succession, or
three times in all, for twenty-four cut Roses in eighteen varieties, and
which was presented by the Vice-President, W. H. Crook, Esq., Huyton.
There were also special prizes for original paintings of flowers,
epergnes, and bouquets. Of the quality of the exhibits there was not
a fault to be found. Space will not permit of a full account of the
exhibits. Mr. R. Pinnington, gardener to Mrs. Banner, Blacklow House,
Roby, took first prizes for six stove and greenhouse plants, six stove and
greenhouse Ferns, two Palms, Peaches, and Nectarines, and four dishes
of Potatoes ; second for one Orchid, a greenhouse plant in bloom, three
Coleus, collection of four dishes of fruit, and six stove and greenhouse
cut flowers.

Mr. Baton, gardener to John Parrington, Esq., Roby Mount, secured
prizes for four dishes of fruit, single greenhouse Fern, two bunches
Black Hamburgh Grapes, and second for Liliums, Begonias, Peaches
and Nectarines. Mr. W. Lyon, gardener to A. M. Smith, Esq., Bolton
Hey, Roby, gained awards for one Orchid, six stove and greenhouse cut
flowers, a very pretty group 7 feet in diameter, and for table plants.
Mr. McFall, gardener to E, C. Leventen, Esq., Oakfield, Roby, also was
awarded prizes for eight varieties of vegetables, six table plants, two
Palms, and four stove and greenhouse plants. Mr. Rattray, gardener to
G. G. Musson, Esq., the President of the Show, won with Begonias, and
was second for a group of plants and for the twenty-four Roses ; the
challenge cup being won by Mr. W. Wharton, gardener to J. Royston,
Esq., Huyton, with a good collection well arranged.

The prizes for an epergne went to Miss Crook, with a charming
arrangement of Iceland Poppies and light Grasses ; whilst for the paint¬
ing Miss Maggie Fishwick, The Orchard, Huyton, had a charming
upright panel of Irises and Lilium candidum ; Miss Kate Harding,
Rydal House, Huyton, being granted an award of merit for a beautiful
painting representing a wickerwork basket filled with Bourbon Roses,
with blue china vase in background. Nurserymen made a splendid
exhibit. Messrs. Middlehurst with herbaceous cut flowers and
Gladiolus ; Ker & Sons, Aigburth, with new and rare plants ; and C. A.
Young, F.R.H.S., West Derby, for Carnations and Picotees. — R. P. R.

BEDFORD. — July 20th.

Under most unfortunate circumstances has this Show been held
during the last five consecutive years, rain falling each year during the
greater part of the day. Thursday last proved no exception to the
proverbial wet Bedford Flower Show day, rain commencing by seven
o’clock with a most leaden sky, and old prophets predicted a wet day.
Fortunately, however, by eleven o’clock things brightened, and the sun
appeared to gladden the hearts of Secretary and Committee, who have
been working a practically insolvent concern. With a band contest as
an extra draw things promised to go off better than could have been
expected earlier in the day, and the afternoon and evening holding fine,
although threatening, enough money was taken to pay expenses.

Reverting to the Show proper, all were agreed that considering the
remarkable season and the lateness of the Show for Roses and herbaceous
flowers, it was a very creditable one indeed. The exhibits were good,
although not in such great numbers as in former years. In the open
class for Roses, forty-eight distinct, Messrs. G. k. W. H. Burch, Peter¬
borough, proved the victors in a class of five competitors with clean and

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JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July £7, 1893.

bright, although small, blooms. Messrs. D. Prior & Sons proved a close
second, Messrs. Paul & Son,Cheshunt, third. In the open eighteen Teas,
Dr. Budd, Bath, was first ; D. Prior & Son, Colchester, second ; Rev.
W. H. Jackson, Stagsden, Bedford, third. In amateur classes, for twenty-
four Boses, distinct, open, Dr. Budd was again to the front, with Mr.
E. B. Lindsell second, and Mr. J. Parker, Hitchin, third. In the class
for twelve Teas and Noisettes, distinct, Dr. Budd was first. Rev. Jackson,
Stagsden Vicarage, Bedford, a good second, and Mr. J. Parker third.
For twelve Roses, distinct. Miss E. Druton, Stevenage, was first, Mr. G.
Monies, Hitchin, second, and Mr. \V. 0. Times, Hitchin, third.

In the open class for thirty-six hardy herbaceous there were two
very strong exhibits, Messrs. Paul «fc Son, Cheshunt, first, Laxton Bros.
Bedford, a close second. In the class, Messrs. Sutton’s prizes for the best
collection of vegetables, open to amateurs and gardeners, Mr. Empson,
The Gardens, Ampthill House, was first with a good stand, Mr. G. Wood-
hams second, and Mr, G. Robinson, gardener to F. Howard, Esq.,
third. The exhibits in the amateur and gentlemen’s gardeners’ classes
in most cases were very creditable indeed, and although there was in
some classes but one exhibit, the Judges, owing to the quality, in most
cases awarded first prizes.

The cottagers’ class was not up to the usual high standard, no doubt
owing to the season ; neither was the market gardeners’ class nor the
class for table decorations as good as they ought to have been, but the
hard-working and energetic Secretary, Mr. J. S. Verey, and his Com¬
mittee are to be congratulated on the success of the Show under
depressing financial circumstances, and we wish them better success in
the future.

NEWCASTLE. — July 20th, 21st, and 22nd.

The sixty-ninth Exhibition of the Durham, Northumberland, and
Newcastle-on-Tyne Incorporated Botanical and Horticultural Society
was held on the above dates in conjunction with the Northumberland
Agricultural Society. This arrangement has proved very advantageous
in the Society’s interests, and the results financially have been of a most
satisfactory character. The Exhibition was held in three large marquees
in the Recreation Ground, North Road. This is most suitable for an
Exhibition of that character, and it would be well that if in future the
Shows were always held here.

We have on many former occasions seen a greater number of exhibits.
Although lacking in that respect, the quality was exceptionally good,
and the Judges declared the Roses of Messrs. Harkness, Bedale, the best
and largest they had seen this year. Plants were also well shown, espe¬
cially the flowering stove plants, those staged by Mr. Letts falling in for
a great share of admiration ; his Dipladenia amabilis was a true specimen
of the plantsman handicraft. It was covered to the bottom of the trellis
with blooms so rich in colour. It has often been reverted to in these
columns the advantage it would be to the Society if they were to give
prizes for groups of plants same as of yore. The much better arrange¬
ment and artistic effects produced in grouping plants together have
recently been highly developed, and to which all those who visited the
York Gala can bear testimony. Had it not been for the excellent
exhibits shown by the local nurserymen the Show would have been far
from so attractive as it was, which in some way compensated for the
group of plants that were formerly one of the salient points of the
Exhibition.

Plants. — The plants were very fine, and occupied one of the
tents. For six plants in bloom in the open class Mr. E. H, Letts,
gardener to the Earl of Zetland, Aske Hall, was first with Dipladenia
amabilis and boliviensis, both superbly flowered, and the former in
addition an excellent colour ; Anthurium Scherzerianum (Shuttle-
worth’s variety), Allamandas nobilis and Wardleana, Erica Aitoniana,
also well flowered. The first prize was £10 and the Royal Horti¬
cultural Society’s medal. Mr. W. J. Morris, Felling, was second
with some grand plants of Ixoras, Stephanotis floribunda, and Statice
profusa. Mr. D. Wylam, Shankhouse, Cramlington, was third with
Statice Batcherianum, Clerodendron Balfourianum, and Anthurium
Schertzerianum. In the corresponding class for six stove and green¬
house plants Mr. F. Nicholas, gardener to Marquis of Zetland,
Upleatham, was first with Stephanotis floribunda. Erica Austiniana
ampullacea, Allamanda nobilis, Statice profusa, and Dipladenia
boliviensis. Mr. D. Wylam was second with small plants, including
Stephanotis and Clerodendron fallax. For eight foliage plants Mr.
E. H. Letts was also first with Cycas circinalis, Croton angustifolius,
Cycas revoluta, Kentia Fosteriana, Crotons Queen Victoria and angusti¬
folius, and Chamaerops Fortunei. Mr, J. Smith, gardener to Theo.
Lange, Esq., Heathfield House, Gateshead, was second with Zamia
Lehteni, a fine glaucous appearance, Kentia Fosteriana, Sabal Black-
manni, Phoenix sylvestris, Croton Victoria, and Dicksonia antarctica.
For six foliage plants Mr. F. Nicholas was first, including good examples
of Croton angustifolius, Dasylirion acrotrichum, Cycas circinalis, Croton
Johannis, and Dicksonia antarctica.

For six exotic Ferns Mr. F, Nicholas was also first with fine plants
of Davallia fijiensis plumosa, Gleichenia Mendelli, Sadleria cyathoides,
Leucostegia immersa, Lomaria zamisefolia, Davallia tenuifolia Veitchi-
ana, the latter very graceful. This stand was fresh and beautiful.
Mr. J. McIntyre was second with Adiantum concinnum latum,
a fine Davallia, Gleichenia Mendelli, Microlepia hirta cristata, Adiantum
farleyense, and Davallia Mooreana. In the corresponding six Ferns
in the gardeners’ class Mr. J. McIntyre, gardener to Mrs. Gurney Pease,
Woodside, Darlington, was first ; and Mr. D. Wylam second.

Cut Flowers and Table Decorations, — Table decorations and cut
flowers always prove an attractive feature at this Exhibition. For table

plants Mr. Mclndoe, gardener to Sir Jos. Pease, Hutton HalL
Guisboro’, was first. For theepergne of cut flowers for drawing room, six
competitors staged. Mrs. J. Morris, Felling, was a good first with
a charming and graceful arrangement, each tier of the stand was
made less in good proportions. Liliums, Dipladenias, Pancratiums,
Allamandas, and other choice flowers were all used effectively. Six
epergnes were staged and had a very pleasing effect on the table.
Baskets of cut flowers were also well arranged. Mr. P. Robertson,
Mossend Nurseries, Helensburgh was first. The flowers were choice
and nicely twined round the basket. They were Pancratiums, Odonto-
glossum grande. Carnation Duchess of Fife, and Dendrobium Paxtoni.
Mr. P. Robertson was also first with the bridal bouquet, which was not
too formal, not too large, and contained the usual white flowers. Miss J.
Jennings, Green Market, Newcastle, was first for hand bouquet. The
ladies’ spray was a choice combination. Mr. J. Battensby, Swalwell,
was first with Roses in bud and Cattleya amethystoglossa on Rose foliage
and Adiantum gracillimum. Mr. P. Robertson was second with Odonto-
glossum grande on Asparagus plumosum nana. In the corresponding
class Miss Edmondson, Clayton Road, Newcastle, was first for an
epergne, and also first for a basket of cut flowers. Mr. T. Battensby, Hagg
Hill, Blaydon, was first for a bridal bouquet, and Miss Edmondson
first for a hand bouquet.

For forty-eight Roses, dissimilar, £6 and the Royal Horticultural
Banksian medal are given for first, and Messrs. Harkness & Son, Bedale,
Yorks, won the leading prize with what was considered, for the season,
exceptionally fine blooms both in colour and size. The best flowers
were D ie de Rohan, Mdme. J. Laing, Earl Dufferin, Mdme. Hausmann,
Marechal Niel, Duchess of Fife, Merveille de Lyon, and Francisca
Kruger. Messrs. D. & W. Crall, nurserymen, Dundee, were second, their
best blooms being Margaret Dickson, Captain Christy, Souvenir d’un Ami,
Innocente Pirola, the Bride, La France, 1889 (a dark Rose), Senateur
Vaisse, Etienne Levet, Countess of Bedford, and Earl Dufferin. Messrs.
Mack & Son, Catterick, were third for thirty-six Roses, and Messrs.
Harkness were also first with similar varieties to those shown in their
forty-eight stand, followed by Messrs. Croll and Mack respectively. For
twelve yellow Roses Mr. D. Robertson was first with Francisca Kruger,
and for twelve Roses, any variety, Mr. H. May, Hope Nurseries, Bedale,
Yorks, was first with fine blooms of Alfred Colomb.

For forty-eight bunches of hardy herbaceous and border flowers
correctly named, Messrs. Harkness were first ; Mr. T. Battensby was
second. For twenty-four Show Pansies Mr. J. Proudlock, Bates Cottages,
Backworth, was first with an extraordinary fine stand, which was very
much commended. For twenty-four Fancy Pansies Mr. A. Bailey, jun.,
Sunderland, was first. Mr, F. Nicholas was first for two bunches of cut
flowers from stove or greenbou;e plants. For Carnations and Picotees
Mr. F. Cowdy was well first with very large blooms, which were greatly
admired.

Fruit. — For a collection of fruit, eight dishes, distinct, black and
white Grapes allowed as separate dishes, Mr. J. Mclndoe was first with
good Black Hamburgh and Muscat of Alexandria Grapes, faultless in
colour, Bellegarde Peaches, Beurrd Superfin Pears, some good Apples,
Pitmaston Nectarines, and a very fine Melon. Mr. J. Hunter, gardener
to Earl of Durham, Lambton Castle, was second with excellent Black
Hamburgh and Duchess of Buccleuch Grapes, Early Mignonne Peaches,
Jefferson Apples, &c. Collection of four dishes. Pines excluded, Messrs.
Hunter and Mclndoe reversed positions. Mr. Hunter had Black Ham¬
burgh and Duchess of Buccleuch Grapes (very fine). Royal George
Peaches, and Emperor Alexander Apples. Mr. Mclndoe had Black
Hamburgh Grapes, Noblesse Peaches, Beurrd Superfin Pears. Mr,
McIntyre was third.

For four bunches of Grapes, not less than two varieties, the Society
offer £3 and the Royal Horticultural Society’s bronze medal. Mr. J.
Hunter was first. The Black Hamburghs were finely finished and
faultless in colour, so were the Muscat of Alexandria. Mr. J. Mclndoe
was second with Gros Colman and Madresfield Court. Mr. W. Stewart
was third ; seven stands were staged. For two bunches of Muscats
(white), Mr. J. Mclndoe was again first, the bunches were about 3 lbs.
weight, well shaped, and the berries all regular ; there were no
vacancies in the bunches whatever. Mr. W. Stewart, gardener to Sir
Wilfrid Lawson, Brayton Manor, was first for two bunches of Buckland
Sweetwater, and two excellent bunches they were. Mr. J. Atkinson,
gardener to Sir Edward Blacket, Matfen Hall, was first for two Black
Hamburgh bunches, nine dishes were staged. For two bunches any
other variety Mr. Mclndoe was again first with Gros Maroc.

Mr. Stewart was first for a scarlet-fleshed Melon. Mr. J. M'Donald,
gardener to A. E. Burdon, Esq., Hartford House, was first for Peaches,
For Nectarines, Mr. Geo. Marr, gardener to J. Delacoart, Esq., Thorney-
holme Gardens, Clitheroe, was first with Blruge. This is a young exhi¬
bitor, and he, it is to be opined, will compete again at Newcastle. Figs,
Cherries, Strawberries, and Tomatoes were also shown, Messrs. J. Hunter,
J. Mclndoe, T. Battensby, and J. Punton, being the respective winners.
The Committee may be congratulated on their arrangements, and the
cultural and financial success of the Show. Mr. J. Hood, jun., must not
be forgotten for the admirable way the plants were staged, and Mr. J.
Gillespie, jun., for his untiring courtesy and urbanity.

The following nurserymen contributed excellent stands of plants,
which formed one of the great attractions of the Exhibition : — Messrs.
Joseph Robson & Sons, Hexham, Coniferae, Roses, and Japanese Maples.
Messrs. Little & Ballantyne, Carlisle, Musa Cavendishi fruiting in a
10-inch pot, general foliage plants, which made a most effective display.
Messrs. Kent & Brydon, Darlington, a general collection of stove

July 27, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

86

and greenhouse plants. Mr. Ed. Jennings, Palms and greenhouse plants.
Messrs. Edwards of Nottingham their rustic pots. Mr. John Forbes,
Hawick, Violas and herbaceous plants, also Carnations, a Mrs. Granston
a pure white, good strong habit. Messrs. Dobbie & Co., Rotbesay, Violas
and herbaceous plants, and named Sweet Peas. Messrs. Gunn
and Co., Sunderland, garden seeds. Messrs. Wm. Fell & Co., Wentworth
Nurseries, Hexham, splendid specimen Coniferae, well adapted for
decorations on a large scale. Mr. John Hood, jun., 100, Elswick
Road, Newcastle, their patent bracket flask in terra-cotta, suitable for
either flowers. Ferns, and table decoration. Most of these stands
enumerated received medals from the Society for the excellence of their
exhibits. — Beenakd Cowan, F.R.H.S.

EARL’S COURT.— July 26th.

This Show should have been largely made up of Carnations, but the
season somewhat upset the arrangements. There was, however, a fair
number of these flowers, more, probably, than most persons expected,
and the quality throughout was very good. So far as the principal
classes were concerned the result corresponded with that at some of the
leading Rose shows, a northern exhibitor coming southward and carry¬
ing away the chief prizes. He fairly defeated such sterling growers as
Messrs. Turner and Douglas, but neither of these was able to show as
well as usual at this time of year, and another season the victorious
northerner may not find them so easily overthrown. The Carnations
were supplemented by some splendid collections of hardy flowers and
excellent fruit, the collective display was a good one. The Grapes
were particularly noteworthy. The competition with them was very
lively, and there was hardly an inferior bunch in the whole number
shown. Black Hamburgh and Gros Maroc were splendidly repre¬
sented.

There were two stands of twenty-four Carnations, the first prize
going to an exhibitor whose name is not very familiar in the south —
Mr. E. Shaw, Moston, Manchester. His flowers were somewhat small,
but very smooth and fresh. Mr. J. Douglas, Edenside Gardens, Great
Bookham was second with larger but somewhat rougher flowers. There
w’ere also two stands of twelve, but they were far from good, and only
the second prize was awarded, this going to Mr. Chaundy, Oxford. Mr.
Chas. Turner had a very beautiful stand of twenty-four yellow grounds,
and defeated Mr. Douglas somewhat easily. Mr. Chaundy was the only
exhibitor of twelve, and was placed first for a very neat box. The
Slough grower won again with twenty-four seifs and fancies, having
good blooms of high-class varieties. Mr. Chaundy was second, and Mr.
Douglas third. Mr. Shaw was not opposed with twelve, and received
the first prize for a very good box. The Manchester grower secured
another highly creditable victory with twenty-four Picotees, having very
clean, smooth, fresh, and well filled blooms. Mr. Turner was second, and
Mr. Douglas third. The only stand of twelve was that from Mr. Chaundy,
and the third prize represented its merits. Mr. Sage won with border
Carnations ; Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, second. Mr. Turner was
first, Mr. Douglas second, and Mr. Sage third with seifs, Mr. Douglas’s
variety, a new one named Crimson King, receiving a first-class certificate.
Mr. C. B. Cole had a beautifully arranged vase, and was placed first,
Mr. N. H. Cole being second, Messrs. G. Walton and J. Douglas equal
third. Mr. Turner received a certificate for a bright scarlet self named
Mrs. Apstey Smith,

Fruit was a very good display, particularly the Grapes. Five
competed with three varieties, two bunches of each, and all had good
clusters. Mr. Osman, Ottershaw Park Gardens, Chertsey, won with
fine bunches of Black Hamburgh, Foster’s Seedling, and Muscat of
Alexandria. Mr. Tidy, gardener to W. K. D’Arcy, Esq., Stanmore Hall,
Great Stanmore, was second with Gros Maroc splendidly coloured,
Foster’s Seedling, and Muscat of Alexandria ; and Mr. W. Messenger,
gardener to C. H. Berners, Esq., Woolverstone Park, Ipswich, was third
with Golden Queen, Gros Maroc, and Black Hamburgh. Nine competed
with three bunches of black Grapes, the first prize going to Mr. Friend,
gardener to the Hon. P. C. Glyn, Rooks Nest, Godstone, for Black Ham¬
burgh finely berried ; the second to Mr. Messenger for the same variety,
larger bunches but smaller berries, and the third to Mr. Osman, who also
had Black Hamburgh. There were four stands of three whites, Mr.
W. H. Lees, Trent Park Gardens, New Barnet, winning with very large
clusters of Muscat of Alexandria, Mr. Tidy being second, and Mr. Howe,
gardener to H. Tate, Esq., Streatham, third, with the same variety. The
best of eight dishes of Apricots came from Mr. Lees. The variety was
Moor Park, and the fruit very fine. Mr. Messenger was second, and
Mr. Maxim, gardener to the Hon. Miss Shaw Lefevre third. The prizes
for Peaches went to Messrs. Maxim, W. H. Lees, and Messenger, in the
order of their names, the fruit being excellent. Mr. Tidy was first, Mr.
G. H. Sage, Ham House Gardens second, and Mr. Wallis, gardener to
R. Sneyd, Esq., third with Plums, the first named having a grand dish
of Jefferson’s. The prizes for Apples and Pears went to Messrs. Grindrod,
J. C. Mundell, J. Friend, T. A. Hester, and A. Maxim.

The competing exhibits of hardy flowers made a brilliant display.
Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, had a splendid collection of twenty-four,
winning from Messrs. Sage and Such, who also showed well. Mr. Sage
won with twelve bunches, Messrs. Newell and Wythes following. The
prizes for Sweet Peas went to Messrs. Newell, Eckford, Elphinstone, and
Sage.

The miscellaneous exhibits comprised quite half the show, and for
several displays medals were awarded, but they had not been announced
when our reporter left. Messrs. Barr & Son occupied almost the whole
of one side of the tent with a beautiful display of hardy flowers.

amongst which were Hyacinthus candicans, perennial Phloxes, Liliums,
Delphiniums, Statices, and Campanulas. Adjoining this collection were
a number of Melons (Beauty of Syon), Apricots, and Morello Cherries
from Mr. Wythes, gardener to the Duke of Northumberland, Syon
House, all indicating excellent culture. The Cherries and Apricots were
remarkable for their high colouring. Mr. Wythes also contributed a
very attractive group of plants, in which Campanula pyramidalis and
C. p. alba were very much admired.

Messrs. Prior & Co., Colchester, staged a splendid lot of Roses, the
flowers being particularly clean and fresh. Mr. Henry Eckford was
represented by some familiar friends in the shape of a delightful
collection of his choice Sweet Peas. Mr. Eric Such had a charming
display of perennial Phloxes and Gaillardias. The latter, arranged in
bunches of ten in the same way as single Dahlias are exhibited, and
with Asparagus foliage, were really beautiful, and the idea is worth
copying. Messrs. Laing & Sons had a splendid stand of single
Begonias, and another of doubles, together with a very large and
diversified collection of hardy flowers, the whole display making one of
the best in the Show. Messrs. Wm. Paul & Son, Waltham Cross, had
a collection of fruit trees in pots, including Figs, Apples, Peaches,
Plums, and Pears, the trees being well grown and fruiting freely.
Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, contributed a very beautiful collection
of Roses, Carnations, and other hardy flowers. The Carnations, tied up
loosely in bunches of five with their own foliage, presented a delightful
effect. There were several stands of them, alternating with Roses. Mr.
Chas. Turner had a neat and pleasing collection of Carnations. Messrs.
Cannell & Sons contributed a collection of Melons, and Mr. R. Grindrod
some very good Gooseberries, Currants, Cherries, and Apricots. Messrs.
Laxton Bros, had plants of their excellent Strawberry Royal Sovereign.

WEST OF ENGLAND CARNATION AND PICOTEE

SOCIETY. — July 19th.

The first Exhibition of this new Society was held in the Clifton
Zoological Gardens, Bristol, July 19th, and although so many collections
were out of flower, there was a fair display. In the class for twelve
Carnations Mr. A. R. Brown, Handsworth, Birmingham, was first with
C. H. Herbert, Mrs. Barlow, Geggie’s Tom Pinley, Douglas’s No. 37,
John Payne, Squire Llewellyn, Geggie’s Ellis Crossley, Samson, Geggie's
Tom M‘Creath, Douglas’s Virgil (bright in colour), Rosy Morn, and
Admiral Curzon. Mr. T. Hooper, Bath, was second, and Mr. F. Hooper,
Chippenham, third. For six Carnations Mr. Dowell, Chew Magna,
Bristol, was first.

For twelve Picotees Mr. Charles Pinder, Slough, was first with
Morna, Lyddington’s Favourite, Nellie (very fine). Lady Holmesdale,
John Archer, Thomas William (good), Adolphus, Princess of Wales,
Lady Emily Van de Weyer (fine), and J. B. Bryant and Mary (both
fine). Mr. .A. R. Brown, Birmingham, was second, in whose stand were
good blooms of Little Phil, Mrs. Beal, 'Thomas William, and Mrs. Payne.
Mr. F. Hooper was third. For six Picotees Mr. F. W. Barker, Bristol,
was first with Ethel, Nymph, Edith D’Ombrain, Mrs. Chancellor, and
two of Hooper’s seedlings.

In the class for twelve yellow-ground Picotees, Mr, Charles Turner,
Slough, was first with Mrs. Henwood, Stadrath Bail, Annie Douglas
(a seedling like Lilian), Mafret, Mrs. Arthur Barrett (high coloured),
Nellie and Edith M. Wynne (both very fine), Lilian, Agnes Chambers,
and Mrs. Robert Sydenham, Mr. Arthur Brown was second, in whose
stand were blooms of Friedrich Wagner, Almira, Mrs. R. Sydenham,
and Janira. Mr. F. Hooper was third. For six yellow-grounds, the
Rev. G. R. Brown, Iron Acton, Bristol, was first with Countess of
Jersey, Dorothy, Mrs, Henwood, Victoria, Lady Edwards, and Mrs,
Robert Sydenham. Mr. F, W, Baker, Keynsham, was second.

For twelve Selfs or Fancies, Mr. Charles Turner, Slough, was first
with Germania, Ruby, Almira, King of Scarlets, Terra Cotta, Salamander,
The Governor, Romulus, Duchess of Sutherland, Keening Albert, Rose
Unique (very fine), and Janira. Mr. A. R. Brown was second with
Ruby, Mrs. F. Baker, Madame Van Houtte, and Schleiben. Mr. F.
Hooper was third.

Single blooms were shown as follows : — Bizarres and fiakes : First,
Mr. A. R. Brown with Joe Edwards ; second, Mr. A. R. Brown with
Jim’s Favourite (Geggie) ; third, Mr. F. Hooper with Matador. Picotees :
First, Mr. A. R. Brown with Thomas William ; second, Mr. C. Turner
with Thomas William. Third, Mr. C. Turner with Nellie, Yellow-
ground Picotees : First, Mr. C. Turner with Countess of Jersey ; second,
Rev. G. R. Brown with Mrs. Henwood ; third, Mr. A. R. Brown with
Queen Boadicea (Simonite). Selfs : First, Mr. A. R. Brown with a
grand bloom of Rose Unique ; second, Mr. C. Turner with Salamander ;
third, Mr. A. R. Brown with Master Fred.

The premier Carnation was Admiral Curzon in Mr, Brown’s first priz«
stand of twelve. The premier Picotee was Thomas William in Mr,
Turner’s first prize stand of twelve. The premier yellow ground was
Mr. Robert Sydenham in Mr. C. Turner’s first prize stand of twelve.

Mr, Charles Turner’s silver medal for twelve self Carnations was won
by Mr. A. R. Brown, his finest blooms being Rose Unique, Rubj', Benary’s
Wieland, Aureole (Chaundy), Mrs. Fred, and Rose Wynne.

A first-class certificate was awarded to a superb pure white tree
Carnation named Blagdon Surprise, with a flower almost as good in
quality as Mrs. Fred and the plant of good habit. This was exhibited
by Mr. A. Ambrose, gardener to F. R. Robinson, Esq., Sneyd Park,
Bristol.

86

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 27, 1803.

THE MIDLAND COUNTIES CARNATION AND

PICOTEE SOCIETY.— July 22nd.

The third annual Exhibition of this flourishing Society was held in
the Edgbaston Botanical Gardens, Birminghana, on Saturday, July 22nd,
and there was a very large display of blooms and a close competition.
Carnations were not up to their usual standard, as so few blooms were
left, owing to the early season.

For twelve blooms of Carnations Mr. Tom Lord, Todmorden, was
first ; Mr. Robert Sydenham second ; Mr. John Whitham, Hebden
Bridge, third ; Messrs. Thomson & Co. fourth ; Mr. E. Shaw, Man¬
chester, fifth ; Mr. Chas. Freeland, Larkhall, N.B., sixth ; and Mr.
Henry Geggie, Bury, Lancashire, seventh. In the class for twelve
Picotees there were eleven exhibits, and better quality prevailed
throughout, competition being close. Mr. Robert Sydenham was first
with fine blooms of Mr. J. P. Sharps, fine seedling Rosey Sydenham, a
superb flower ; Mrs. Coldridge, Polly Brazil, Nellie, and Mrs. Payne, all
very fine. Messrs. Thomson & Co., Birmingham, were second with a
grand bloom of Nellie in this stand. Mr. Arthur Brown, Handsworth,
was third, and in this stand were fine blooms of Pride of Leyton and
Mrs. S. Beal (both new), also Mrs. Payne. Mr. J. Whitham was
fourth ; Mr. Tom Lord fifth ; Mr. E. Shaw sixth ; Mr. Wm. Spencer,
jun., Birmingham, seventh.

In the class for twelve yellow-ground flowers Mr. Robert Sydenham,
Birmingham, was first with very fine blooms of Countess of Jersey,
Janira, Romulus, Mrs. Henwood, Stadrath Bail, Schleiben, Brockhaus,
Victory, Mrs. Robert Sydenham, A. W. Jones, and others. Messrs.
Thomson & Co., Sparkhill Nurseries, was second; Mr. Charles Turner,
Slough, third ; Mr. Arthur Medhurst, Oxford, fourth ; Mr. B. Simonite,
Sheffield, fifth ; and Mr. J. H. Wilson, Birmingham, sixth.

In the class for twelve seifs Mr. Robert Sydenham was first with
Germania, Ruby, Gladys, Justinian (light pink). Blushing Bride (a
fine bright scarlet seedling), iinnie Lakin, Joe Willett, Queen of Buffs,
Theodore Aureole, and a dark sport from C. H. Herbert. Mr. A.
Medhurst was second with seedlings ; Messrs. Thomson & Co. third ;
Mr. C. Turner fourth ; Mr. Wilson fifth. In the class for six Carnations,
Mr. Crossley Head, Hebden Bridge, was first; Mr. Ben Simonite
second ; Mr. A. Medhurst third ; Mr. Joe Edwards, Manchester, fourth ;
Mr. WilliamtKenyon fifth ; Mr. C. F. Thurstans, Wolverhampton, sixth,
and Mr. James Bleakley, Manchester, seventh. For six Picotees there
were nineteen competitors. Mr. Crossley Head first ; Mr. Thurstans
second ; Mr. A. W. Jones, Handsworth, third ; Mr. W. Kenyon fourth ;
Mr. J. P. Sharp fifth ; Mr. William Spencer, Birmingham, sixth ; Mr.
James Bleakley seventh.

For six fancies of yellow grounds M. A. W. Jones was first; Mr.
Arthur Brown, second ; Mr. Spencer, third ; Mr. George Chaundy,
Oxford, fourth ; Mr. R. Makepeace, Leicester, fifth; Mr. George Eyre,
Derby, sixth ; Mr. Ed. Hill, Nottingham, seventh. The classes for six
seifs and for the maiden exhibitors were well contested. Classes 10 to
28 were for single blooms, four prizes in a class, and eighty-two prizes,
but we have not space for enumerating all these.

The premiers were — Bizarre Carnation, Mr. Tom Lord with Master
Fred ; flake Carnation, Mr. B. Simonite with Sportsman ; self Carnation,
Mr. C. Turner with Germania ; yellow ground Picotee, Mr. W. Spencer
with Mrs. Robt. Sydenham ; heavy edge Picotee, Mr. A. W. Jones
with Mrs. Payne ; light edge Picotee, Mr. R. Sydenham with Thomas
William.

Class 29 was for twelve varieties of border Carnations, five strains
of each. Messrs. Thomson & Co. were first ; Miss Perkins, Leamington,
second ; Messrs. Hewitt & Co., Birmingham, third ; Mr. Simon Rogers,
Whittlesey, Peterborough, fourth ; Mr. W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall
Gardens, fifth. For six varieties of border kinds, three stems of each,
Mr. Thurstans was first ; Mr. Wm. Barsby, Lincoln, second ; Mr.
George Chaundy third ; Mr. E. M. Sharp, Edgbaston, fourth.

There was an excellent exhibition of shower bouquets, sprays, and
baskets, all of Carnations and Picotees, and much competition. Plants
in pots, six varieties, brought out three exhibitors. Extra prizes were
offered for bouquets and sprays of Sweet Peas, and some very pretty
exhibits were staged, Mrs. Thewles, Floral Depot, New Street Station,
easily taking the first prize with a charming shower bouquet of pale pink
flowers.

Certificates of merit were awarded to Messrs. Thomson & Co., Sparkhill
Nurseries, for a new dark, rich-coloured self Carnation, Topsy, and a
very fine yellow-ground Picotee, Mrs. Spencer, and to Mr. George
Chaundy, Oxford, for a new S.B. Carnation, Albert Whitham.

The Birmingham Botanical Society’s two silver medals for the greatest
number of points in certain classes were awarded to Mr. Robert Sydenham
and to Messrs. Hewitt & Co. The Botanical Society’s two bronze medals
for the second most successful exhibitors in the same classes were awarded
to Messrs. Thomson & Co. and Miss Perkins. A silver medal was
awarded to Mr. W. Jones, Handsworth, Birmingham, for excellence of
culture.

The honorary exhibits are invariably so good at these Exhibitions
that silver and bronze medals are given by the Carnation Society for
exhibits of exceptional merit. Silver medals were awarded to Messrs.
Hewitt & Co., Solihull Nurseries, for a very fine display of Tuberous
Begonias and hardy cut blooms ; to Mr. J. White, nurseryman, Worcester,
for collection of cut flowers of various kinds ; to Mr. B. R. Davis,
Yeovil, for a superb display of his excellent double Begonias ; and to
Messrs. Thomson & Co., Sparkhill Nurseries, for an extensive display
of border Carnations and Picotees. Bronze medals were awarded to

Messrs. Jarman & Co., Chard, Somerset, for herbaceous and other cut
flowers ; and to Mr. Hy. Eckford, Wem, for new and other Sweet Peas
of his own raising. Nearly £110 was offered in prizes and medals, and
excellent arrangements were made for the Exhibition by Mr. W. B.
Latham, the Curator of the gardens.

WOKK.F0^™:WEEK.

FRUIT FORCING.

Pines.— As houses become vacant clean them thoroughly before
being again occupied with plants. The first thing to be seen to is
the bed. If bottom heat be afforded by hot-water pipes, the material
forming the bed, whether of tan or leaves, should be removed at least
once a year, or woodlice and other predatory vermin rapidly increase,
and are harboured by the old material. Syringe every part of the house
with hot water, thoroughly cleansing the wood and ironwork with soap
and water, using a brush, and keeping the soapy water from the glass,
which should be cleaned inside and outside with pure water only. Scald
all brickwork and brush with hot limewash, reaching well into holes and
crevices. Paint the wood and ironwork, and make the roof as water¬
proof as possible, as much damage is caused by water dripping on the
foliage. Chambered beds heated with hot-water pipes are much in
advance of those surrounded or passing through beds of rubble. Those
composed of the latter should be turned over, and any dirt or small parts
removed to allow the heat given off to penetrate through the whole
uniformly to the bed. Fresh tan should be provided in other cases. If
wet, turn it occasionally on fine days. With hot- water pipes beneath
about 3 feet depth of tan is ample, more will be needed where such
aid is not provided. In most cases it will only be necessary to mix
new tan with the least reduced portion of the old, this being sifted
and the fine rejected.

Routine. — Suckers started in June will soon fill their pots with roots,
and must be shifted into the fruiting pots before the roots become
closely matted together. Queens, Envilles, and moderate-growing kinds
generally succeed well in 9 or 10-inch pots, those of stronger growth
should have 11-inch pots. Water immediately after potting if the soil
be dry, not otherwise, and plunge in a bottom heat of 90° to 95°.
Crowding young plants is a great mistake, as they become drawn and
weakly instead of forming a sturdy growth, a condition that should
always be aimed at. Attend to the bottom heat of beds that have
recently been disturbed by renewal and replacing of plants, not allowing
the heat at the base of the pots to exceed 95° without immediately
raising them, as too much bottom heat will disastrously affect plants
having the pots filled with roots or those with fruit. Examine the
plants for water about twice a week, supplying it only to those in need.
Maintain a moist, genial, and well ventilated atmosphere. The change
in the weather has produced climatic conditions favourable to growth,
so that Pine plants grow luxuriantly, therefore discontinue any shading
such as may have been employed for an hour or two at midday, when
the sun was powerful through the months of May, June, and this, the
plants being given all the light possible, admitting air early, especially
after dull periods, and plentifully when the temperature ranges from
85° to 95°. Afford fruiting plants a night temperature of 70° to 75°,
65° to 70° at night sufficing for successional plants. Some suckers
should be reserved on the stools for starting in September, but they
must not be allowed to become too large, detaching and potting thenu
if necessary.

Cherry House. — The trees have now plumped the buds, and the
leaves are not capable of much further effort in elaborating the sap and
storing it in the buds and adjacent wood, therefore any undue excite¬
ment will cause the trees to start into fresh growth. This must be
guarded against by exposing the trees to the influence of the atmosphere
so far as the house will admit, as the best means of arresting pre¬
mature growth, to which the Cherry is liable when forced year after
year successively. The roof lights must be removed ; t ees in pots
should be placed outdoors, plunging the pots in ashes. If the roof lights
are fixed ventilate to the fullest extent. The borders must not be
allowed to become dry, but have copious supplies of water, and if the
trees are weak afford liquid manure. To subdue red spider give an.
occasional washing with the syringe or garden engine. Promptly
subdue bla.-ik aphides with tobacco water. Trees in pots must be
regularly syringed and watered to preserve the foliage in a healthy
condition.

rigs. — Early Forced Trees in Pots. — When the second crop ia
gathered examine the trees for red spider and brown scale ; keeping
the trees somewhat drier at the roots and the freer ventilation to insure
a drier atmosphere tends to an increase of these pests. Now that the
wood is firm, and there is less danger of injuring the foliage than at an
earlier stage, an insecticide may be used for their annihilation more
successfully. A petroleum mixture is very effective against scale, and
if softsoap is added it is fatal to red spider. Dissolve 8 ozs. of soft-
soap and 1 oz. of washing soda in 4 gallons of boiling water, add a

July 27, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

87

wineglasaful of petroleum, and apply when cooled to 100° with a
syringe. Keep the mixture well mixed by alternate squirts into the
vessel and on the plants, which should be well wetted in every part,
and if they cannot be laid on their sides and turned over a little dry
moss may be tied around the stem, and a sort of pyramid placed
about the plants to prevent the solution soaking into the soil. If the
wood is badly infested with scale employ a somewhat stiff brush to
dislodge it whilst wet. Similar means may be pursued with the
leaves, damaging them as little as possible. In bad cases repeat the
treatment in a day or two, afterwards syringing thoroughly with tepid
vyater. The trees will need water only to prevent the foliage becoming
limp, ventilating to the fullest extent day and night, but protect from
heavy rains, which has a tendency to keep the trees active instead of
inducing rest. This is absolutely essential to trees subjected to early
forcing. For these considerations early forced potted trees should not
be placed outdoors if there is any doubt about the maturity of the
wood, and they cannot have complete rest if the weather prove wet.
If placed outdoors it must be in a sunny position, and the pots stood on
rough ashes with finer about them.

Early Forced Planted out Trees. — Admit enough air to ensure a
circulation constantly, ventilating freely by day. If dull weather
prevail a gentle heat in the hot- water pipes will favour the ripening of
the fruit, which is insipid or highly flavoured according to the heat and
air. Diminish the watering at the root and discontinue syringing over
the trees, but a moderate air moisture may be secured by damping
occasionally for the benefit of the foliage. If red spider prove trouble¬
some heat the pipes on a calm evening to 170° and paint them with
sulphur brought to the consistency of cream with skim milk, having the
house closed, and keeping the pipes hot about an hour, then allow them
to cool and the temperature to fall to its usual degree. Repeat in the
course of a week to destroy any pests then emerged from the eggs. As
soon as the fruit is gathered cleanse thoroughly with the syringe or
engine, freeing the trees of red spider, and maintain a free circulation
of rather dry warm air until the foliage begins to fall naturally, but it
must not be accelerated by allowing the soil to become dust dry at the
roots of the trees.

Unheated Fig Houses,— fruit is now well advanced to maturity
and in some cases ripening. Where it is swelling no pains should be
spared to keep the foliage clean by syringing in the morning and early
afternoon. Do not syringe, however, if the day is likely to be dull, or
in the afternoon if there is a prospect of the foliage not becoming dry
before night. Under those circumstances damp the border, especially
in the afternoon. Admit a little air early, increasing it with the sun
neat, maintaining through the day at 80° to 85° with free ventilation,
closing early so as to increase the temperature to 90° to 95°, and when
the sun’s power is declining a little air may be admitted at the top of
the house, so as to allow the pent-up moisture to escape and the
temperature to gradually cco’. Supply water or liquid manure to
the roots according to circumstances, so as to keep the soil in a
thoroughly moist condition. With the fruit advancing for ripening
lessen the supply of water and discontinue syringing, securing a circu¬
lation of air constantly, and ventilate freely when favourable. Husband
sun heat, which will not do any harm if the atmosphere is not confined,
a little ventilation being given to allow of the moisture escaping instead
of condensing on the fruit and causing it to crack and spot.

Cucumbers.— Pot the seedlings for autumn fruiting as they become
ready, placing a stick to each plant intended for trelliswork, and
pinching out the point of such as are required for growing in frames or
pits, at the second rough leaf. Prepare fermenting materials to afford
bottom heat for the latter, and cleanse houses thoroughly, the woodwork
with hot water, soap, and a brush, the glass with clear water, and lime-
wash the walls. Remove all the old soil and make everything as clean and
sweet as possible. Turfy loam stacked until the herbage is dead, a
tenth of charcoal, and a sixth of old mortar rubbish thoroughly incor¬
porated form a suitable compost. If heavy add an equal proportion of
fibrous sandy peat to the loam.

If the weather prove cold and sunless it will be necessary to employ
a little fire heat, as a low temperature induces stunted fruits, canker at
the collar, and mildew on the foliage. Enough artificial heat should be
used in such weather to maintain a night temperature of 65° to 70°, and
70° to 75° by day. Sulphur dusted on the foliage is the best cure for
mildew, and quicklime rubbed into the affected parts acts well against
canker. If aphides appear fumigate in a calm evening and repeat early
the following morning. After a period of dull weather shade on a
return of bright sun so as to prevent flagging. Keep the growths
regularly attended to twice a week, remove exhausted growths, and main¬
tain a succession of bearing wood by laying in young fruitful growths.
Close early, running up to 90° to 100°, and ventilate early and
moderately, keeping up a good moisture by frequently damping available
surfaces.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

Potatoes. — A complete change in the weather would appear to be
very general, and most probably Potato disease will become prevalent.
Those who mean trying the effects of the sucrated bouillie bordelaise
will now have good opportunities for so doing. The first dressing ought
to have been applied in anticipation of disease, and preferably on a
<lry day, a second application being advisable about a month later.
Tnis season, owing to the forwardness of the crops, early lifting would
have been found the best prerentive of disease. Once more it may be

pointed out that there is no necessity to wait for the haulm to die
down before lifting and storing commences. Once tuber growth has
ceased and the skins are set, nothing further will be gained, and much
may be lost by leaving them in the ground. Should it be inconvenient
to lift the crops just now, be content to draw the haulm and wheel
this away. In most fairly warm districts the early and the bulk of
second early varieties are quite fit for lifting. Unfortunately, the
drought has checked the progress of late varieties in all cases where the
soil was poor and non-retentive of moisture, and this will most probably
be followed by pro-tuberation. There is no help for this, unless,
indeed, the first-formed crop happens to be large enough for lifting.
Many of the second earlies will also grow out ; but this should be
prevented by either lifting or haulm-drawing.

Turnips. — It is not often that there are too many of these grown
for winter use, and this season better opportunities than usual will be
afforded for growing extra large breadths. Some portions of the ground
cleared of second early Potatoes should be devoted to Turnips, the
earliest opportunity of sowing the seed of the latter in quantity being
taken. As the Potatoes are lifted the whole of the ground should be
forked over, levelled, and all lumps broken down. If this is delayed for
a few days the soil will not work so well, and seed sowing be a more
difficult operation. Some of the best Turnips for present sowing are
Snowball, Veitch’s Red Globe, Orange Jelly, and Chirk Castle Black
Stone. For the three first named the drills may well be drawn 15 inches
apart, 12 inches being ample for the latter. As far as hardiness is
concerned Chirk Castle Black Stone is the best, the quality also being
superior. If the drills are at all dry moisten prior to sowing, and in any
case distribute the seed thinly, or much extra thinning out will be
necessary. If birds commence drawing the seedlings just as they are
coming through the soil dust the latter over with soot and lime while
the dew is on them.

Endive. — Very early raised Endive is not to be depended upon, the
bulk of it running to seed prematurely. About the middle of July is a
good time to sow, the plants thus obtained attaining their full size
before wintry weather sets in, and keeping well when stored. Good
forms or selections of Green Curled and the Broad-leaved Batavian are
the best that can be grown. Supposing a wall border or sunny plot of
rather high ground has been duly cleared of early Potatoes, this should
be prepared as advised in the case of Turnips. It is the least trouble to
sow the seed thinly where the plants are to remain, the drills being
drawn 12 inches apart. Space not being available for this, sow the seed
in drills 6 inches asunder, and eventually transplant the greater part of
the seedlings, leaving the rest to grow to their full size where they are.
Early Endive can also be had by sowing the seed broadcast in beds, and
the seedlings being thinned to about 6 inches apart each way, they soon
press against each other and are self-blanching accordingly.

liOttuce. — It is yet somewhat early to sow Lettuce seed in quantity
with a view to having abundance in the autumn and early winter, but
should the next two or three months prove as wet and dull as predicted,
then it might happen that the July-raised plants will be extra service¬
able. Anyway, there should be no cessation of the pains taken in
keeping up a good supply of Lettuce, fortnightly sowings being none too
often. With each selection of varieties the Black-seeded Brown Cos
ought always to be sown, this variety if well grown being one of the
best. These may well follow Potatoes, the plants being raised where
they are to remain. Sow the seed thinly in drills 10 inches or 12 inches
asunder.

Cabbage. — Coleworts or small quick-hearting Cabbages ought to be
already in rough leaf, though if other winter vegetables are scarce more
seed should be sown. If these late-raised plants fail to heart in where
they are planted thickly the tops may yet prove very acceptable. Seed
may be sown thinly in drills 12 inches apart, and the plants allowed to
remain where they come up. Now is also the best time for sowing seed
of Ellam’s Dwarf Spring, Wheeler’s Imperial, Little Pixie, Hill’s Incom¬
parable, and other favourite neat growing varieties. The plants resulting
should be ready to form a close succession to spring sown Onions. The
more vigorous varieties should be sown a fortnight or three weeks later,
as plants of these when raised early are apt to bolt.

Iiate Peas. — Now that there has been a welcome change in the
weather there is a better prospect of the late-sown Ne Plus Ultra Peas
and such like growing more strongly than was the case during the very
hot and dry weather. There is, however, no certainty about their holding
out till frost intervenes, and if extra late Peas must be had more seed
ought to be sown. This time the preference should be given to this
season’s seed of Exonian, William L, Daisy, Chelsea Gem, English
Wonder, or any other good first or second early varieties. New seed
germinates the most strongly, the plants throughout being more vigorous
than those resulting from old seed. The centres of wide spaces between
Celery trenches answer for a single row, or the seed may be sown on
other rather high ground, early frosts being most felt in the lower part
of many gardens. Moisten the rather deep drills if at all dry, covering
the seed with about 3 inches of soil. Surface mulchings and waterings
in dry weather are considered of much importance.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

W. Cuthbush & Sons, Highgate, 'S.— Hyacinths, Taligys, and oiho
Eulbojis Roots,

W. & C. Gowie, Grahamstown, Cape Colony. — Seeds and Plants.

88

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Ju’y 27, 13937

. .

iS

iIhe bbe-kbbper.

VsA 1

APIARIAN NOTES.

Notes from the Moors.

Since the bees were taken to the Heather the weather has
been wet and stormy. More bees have been lost in a few days
than there were last year, there being more inducement for
them to fly out, and, owing to want of sunshine, the chilled bees
overtaken by the lashing showers never rise. These phenomena in
hilly districts are more frequent and extraordinary than in the
lowlands. On the 19th, between 1 and 2 p.m., when the sun for
a brief period shone out with all her splendour, the air became
suddenly very cold, lasting for about fifteen minutes, with a
strong wind at the time. Bees fell in showers to the ground, and
I had to take shelter, and retreat homewards.

The bees are anxious to work, the flowers being so profuse, and
with but one week’s calm and fair weather they would gather large
quantities of honey. Swarming with all the untoward weather
has been prevalent, proving that the advice to the effect that
timely room will prevent it is erroneous. An unparalleled case
has been brought under my notice this week. After two or three
virgin queens had piped and lived together in one hive swarming
took place. It is somewhere about eight years since I stated in
this Journal a case where three weeks expired after the queens
were hatched before they swarmed, and showed the desirability
where profit was concerned of getting rid of all the surplus ones at
the earliest opportunity.

PuNics.

As usual I meet with bee-keepers from different localities who
have their bees near mine. One man accosted me with, “ How
have your Punics done this year ? ” I replied, and repeated some
of the advice that has appeared in the pages of the Journal of
Horticulture. Another person exclaimed, “ My Punics have been
by far my best hives, both last year and this one.” The first who
spoke explained “ that he put supers upon a swarm a few days
hived, and in two weeks after they were filled and prettily sealed.”
Surely these facts disprove the assertions made against these bees.
My prime swarm mentioned several weeks since has increased in
weight 45 lbs., excelling my others, nearly the one-half of that
being gathered after the weather had broken. There is little
necessity looking after their doorways, they contrast or extend
them themselves as circumstances demand.

There are perhaps some persons who may after all these facts
have been published still endeavour to disprove them, but let all
who seek after truth pay me and my hives a visit, and they will
learn more truth in an hour than in years by merely reading what
is said about the Punic bees by writers who have had no actual
experience with them. — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

•**A11 correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Bees (F. J. IF.). — Your letter is received, and the required information
will be given as soon as possible.

^rational Rose Society’s Catalogue QRosariaii). — You will
find an answer to your question on page 72 of the present issue.

Iilght Reading (S. J. A.). — Amusing and refreshing, but should
have been sent a day sooner to secure insertion.

Book on Table Decoration (6*. W. It.). — “Table Decoration,”
by William Low, and published by Messrs. Chapman & Hall, London,
would meet your requirements. It could no doubt be obtained through
any bookseller.

Raw Bones and Chrysanthemums (IF. A. 31.). — Evidently the
bones used as drainage are injuring your plants. Clear lime water will
not hurt them, and may, or may not, destroy the maggots. Cannot you
carefully turn the plants out of their pots and remove the cause of the
evil? It may be tedious work, but will be the best way of improving
the plants.

Boronla polygallfolla (A. 31.). — You are correct in saying that
this Boionia is “ comparatively little known,” but it is one of the most
useful of the genus. In few gardens, however, it is largely grown, but
wherever it has been fairly tried the highest opinion is held of its merits
as a greenhouse or conservatory plant. Perhaps the best examples of its
utility can be seen at Kew in the greenhouse, where during the spring
and early summer months plants with quite masses of flowers are very
noticeable upon the side shelves. These are borne on corymbose heads,
are of a bright rosy-lilac hue, and last a considerable time either upon
the plant or when cut. The growth being very free, the plant will
endure hard cutting, a valuable quality when flowers are so largely
in demand ; and though the colour is not so brilliant or startling
as that of some plants, it is a shade that can be readily associated
with many others without producing any unpleasant discord. It
requires similar treatment to other species of the genus.

Heaviest Buneta of Crapes (^Yoxing Gardener). — We have many
times answered similar questions to yours, and can only repeat that the
heaviest bunch of Grapes we have seen, and so far as we know that has
been officially recorded, was a bunch of the Calabrian Kaisin, weighing
26 lbs, 4 ozs., grown by Mr. Curror, gardener to J, Douglas, Esq.,
Eskbank, Dalkeith, and exhibited in Edinburgh on September 15th,
1875. A bunch of Syrian grown by the late Mr. Dickson, gardener to
J. Jardine, Esq., Arkleton, Langholm, weighed at the same show 25 lbs.,
15 ozs. This appeared to be the larger bunch of the two, the berries
having been more thinned than the former. Mr. Dickson has stated
that the bunch when cut weighed 26 lbs. 8 ozs., so that either it must
have lost weight before it reached the show or there was a difference in
the scales employed in the two instances. An illustration of this bunch
was reproduced in the Journal of Horticulture for December 29th, 1892.
Mr. Koberts, The Gardens, Charleville Forest, Tullamore, has grown a
bunch of Gros Guillaume weighing 23 lbs. 5 ozs.

Acacia grandls (^Amateur). — The plant to which you allude is no
doubt Acacia giandis, which is a native of Western Australia. It forms
a shrub of moderate .size, and flowers freely while small. The stems are
angular, grooved, and usually, but not invariably, quite glabrous. The
leaves consist of two pinnm articulated at their base, each pinna being
about an inch long, and composed of from eight to ten pairs of linear,
alternate, smooth leaflets, the rachis or stalk to which they are attached
being flattened, and terminated by a small leafy point. A. grandis is a
most charming plant for spring flowering, being at that season loaded
with its g.dden yellow balls; and at all periods of the year its elegant
foliage gives it an ornamental character. Its propagation is effected
either by seeds or cuttings, usually by the latter method ; they should
be inserted in white sand, or very sandy soil, and covered with a bell-
glass or tumbler. As they are impatient of damp, they require a little
more care during the rooting process than those of the leafless species.
The inside of the glass should be wiped daily, and as soon as the cuttings
are well rooted they must be potted into sandy peat, and eventually
into good fibrous peat containing less sand.

American Ginseng' (A. B.). — You desire to know something about
“ American Ginseng, which is highly valued as a medicine by the
Chinese.” The following extract from a recent number of the “ Kew
Bulletin ” exactly answers j'our question : — “ The American Ginseng
belongs to the natural order Araliacese, an order closely allied
to the Umbelliferm. Amongst Araliacem are included plants
of very different habits and characters, such as Panax, Fatsia,
the tropical Sciadophyllum and Hedera (the common Ivy). Aralia
quinquefolia, A. Gray, has a low herbaceous stem seldom more than
a foot or 15 inches high. The leaves are long-stalked, pal matisect, with
usually five leaflets (hence the specific name), arranged in a whorl of
three or four at the summit of the stem ; the leaflets have generally three
larger than the others, they are somewhat thin, obovate-oblong, pointed
and serrate. A single umbel of flowers appears on the short, slender,
terminal peduncle with small yellowish flowers. The calyx is adherent to
the ovary and surmounts it with five minute teeth. The corolla is made
up of five small oval white petals which soon fade away. The stamens
(when present) are five in number, with small heart-shaped anthers,
and there are two, sometimes three, persistent ordinary curved styles.
The ovaries expand into small round bright red berries about the size of
small peas, each with two seeds. The root (the part used) is tuberous,
3 or 4 inches long and usually branching into two or three tap¬
shaped divisions. It is wrinkled by parallel transverse ridges, and gives
rise to a number of fibrous rootlets. The upper portions of the root-tuber
show several angular scars, the remains of previous stems which die
down annually. As the roots increase with age they often assume
strange forms, and such roots are highly prized, the Chinese readily
giving large sums for them. In America the roots are not regarded as
possessing active medicinal properties. They have, however, an
aromatic bitter-sweet taste, are somewhat mucilaginous, and may have a
j mild, stimulant, tonic effect.”

August 3, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

91

Although the great work that has been conducted for fifty
years on the Rothamsted Park estate of Sir John Bennett
Lawes and his talented and energetic coadjutor, Dr. J. H. Gilbert,
is of agricultural interest mainly, we make no apology for inserting
a report of the proceedings on another page in honour of those
workers in science in its direct bearings on the cultivation of the
soil ; nor do we hesitate to make this prominent reference to their
services, and the recognition of them that has been won so well.
No one interested in the art of cultivation, whether on farms or in
gardens, can visit Rothamsted without being impressed with the
magnitude of the operations there to be seen, both on the land and
in the laboratory. Experiments on almost all kinds of crops with
various manures, and no manures, over a long series of years teach
valuable lessons. The results of soil starvation and soil enrichment
are side by side. The effects of the chief chemical manures, both
alone and in combination, are displayed, and it is impossible to
ignore the lessons the crops teach. The laboratory work is almost
bewildering in its magnitude, and the exhaustive nature and
complete records of the experiments evoke surprise and admi¬
ration .

Few greater treats can be imagined to the gardener or farmer
with an inquiring mind, and a desire to trace results to their causes,
than that afforded by an inspection of Rothamsted in company
with those who have made it famous all over the civilized world —
Sir John Lawes and Dr. Gilbert. The untiring zeal of the former
in the work which he instituted, and the remarkable energy of the
latter, are not likely to be forgotten by the visitor. Those who
appreciate the picturesque, as well as scientific and practical experi¬
ments, will find the former in the fine old Elizabethan mansion and
its surroundings. Particularly noteworthy is an ancient avenue of
stately Limes producing in a natural way an avenue of successors.
The arms of the old trees have bent over and reached the ground
on each side, and at about equal distances from the parent trunks,
taken root, thrown up luxuriant suckers that are developing into
straight and stately trees parallel with the originals. It is an
interesting example of continuity in tree life and orderly arrange¬
ment unaided by the art of man, and is in bold contrast to the art
and science which in other directions pervade the establishment.
We wish, as will all our readers who have seen the work of
Rothamsted, still a long period and usefulness to the distinguished
veterans who were honoured last week. Rich in knowledge and
experience they are still almost physically young. Dr. Gilbert will
shortly start for Chicago to deliver a course of lectures, and he
will not meet there many men possessing greater mental and
physical activity than himself. His friends bid him hon voyage,
and will be glad to see him home again.

COLOURING LATE GRAPES.

The art of perfectly colouring Grapes of all varieties has long
been regarded as one of the most difficult points in connection
with fruit growing, and the cultivator who accomplishes the feat
is accredited with having performed a highly meritorious achieve¬
ment. As far as my experience goes it is, however, rare indeed
that any cultivator succeeds in bringing a dozen varieties to this

No. 684. — VoL. XXVII., Third Series.

desirable state during any one season, unless the bunches are con¬
spicuously small, in which case the performance would not be a
remarkable one, for to come up to the high standard of the present
day size of bunch and berry, as well as good form and colour, must
be combined.

The peculiarities of each season doubtless render uniformity of
quality in Grapes difficult of attainment, because during bright
hot seasons black varieties seldom finish so well or retain their
colour so long as white ones, while in dull seasons the chief
obstacle lies in producing the rich amber tint which denotes per¬
fection in the latter. This difficulty is often largely increased
by growing too many varieties in one house, under which con¬
ditions it is impossible to give each kind the treatment required
Much has, however, been done in recent years to lessen this
obstruction by planting in mixed houses only those varieties which
ripen about the same time, or require similar temperatures. This,
together with the special attention which has been given to Grape
culture during the last two decades, has resulted in the production
of a largely increased per-centage of well-coloured Grapes. Let
those who are inclined to doubt this statement carry their memory
back ten or fifteen years, and picture to themselves the com¬
paratively few really well-finished Grapes to be met with at
exhibitions and in high-class fruiterers’ shops at that time, and then
compare their mental retrospect with what they may see in similar
places to-day ; the result I think will be convincing. There is,
however, still room for the good work already begun to be still
further extended, till badly coloured Grapes, which were once the
rule, become the exception. Given clean healthy Vines, not over¬
cropped, it ought not to be a difficult matter to colour every berry
which does not shank in a house in which suitable varieties are
planted together, and I believe by paying due attention to the
following details of culture, any intelligent gardener may succeed
in doing it.

The first thing to be done is to ascertain the condition of the
soil about the roots in regard to moisture immediately the berries
show signs of colouring. If the soil be in the least dry, a
thorough soaking of liquid manure should be given, or one of
the many approved chemical manures sprinkled upon the surface
of the border and watered in. On subsequent occasions, when¬
ever the soil becomes slightly dry, water ought to be applied till
the Grapes are ripe. If liquid manure is given just as colouring
begins I prefer to use clear water at later waterings, except in
the case of Vines growing in narrow borders crammed with roots.
Ventilation is a matter which plays an important part in effecting
good colour. There is, I think, too great a tendency to suddenly
increase the amount as soon as colouring commences, with the
result that a check is given to the Vines at a critical stage, and the
prospect of securing coloured Grapes greatly lessened. It is not
so much the amount of air given which requires alteration as
the time of admitting and manner of reducing it. The practice
of allowing the thermometer to reach a given point before ventila¬
tion is increased is not a good one. When this is done condensed
moisture on the berries frequently follows, loss of bloom being
the result. No matter what the temperature may be early in the
morning, more air should be admitted before it begins rising,
and afterwards increased sufficiently to prevent a rapid rise
or decreased to avert a sudden change in the opposite direction-
During the afternoon of bright days ventilation should be reduced
so as to maintain the temperature between 75° and 85°, allowing
a little air to be admitted through the top lights continually,
and as colouring advances at the front of the house as well.
These tactics should be continued throughout the finishing period,
with the slight exception that as the berries ripen the air
admitted may be increased in volume, which will, of course, keep
the temperature throughout the day slightly lower.

It is a rare occurrence to find well coloured Grapes on Vines
badly infested with red spider or other insects, yet the treatment

No. 2340. — VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

92

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[August 3, 1893.

given by some cultivators during the ripening period is calculated
to bring about a rapid spread of these pests, which revel in a
parched atmosphere such as many consider it necessary to maintain
during that stage. Indeed, I will go still further, and maintain
that it is the one weak point which in many instances prevents
black Grapes finishing well. Vine leaves which are perfectly
fresh and healthy when colouring begins, after being subjected to
an unnecessary amount of fire heat and but little atmospheric
moisture for a few weeks, become dry, brittle, and altogether devoid
of freshness, under which conditions they cannot properly perform
their functions. If we take a lesson from Nature’s book we find
that Grapes on walls in the open air which colour during the damp
cold nights of August and September usually become as black as
Sloes.

In order to maintain the foliage in a healthy condition, and
thus promote good colour, the floor and stages of the house should
be damped three times daily during bright weather, and once on
dull days when fire heat is constantly employed. Houses in which
Vines of Madresfield Court are growing must have less atmospheric
moisture to prevent the berries cracking. The hot-water pipes
should be heated sufficiently to maintain the night temperature
between 60° and 65° during the next month. Later on, when
colder nights prevail, it is better to allow the thermometer to fall
5° lower than to overheat the hot- water pipes to keep up a given
temperature. The great consideration is to employ a little
artificial heat constantly during the night and on dull days,
then the exact degree of temperature kept up is not of much
consequence.

All white Grapes require a somewhat drier atmosphere during
the ripening period than is good for black ones, otherwise the berries
became spotted, or “cloudy.” Muscats should also have a far
greater amount of fire heat than black Grapes. A night tempera¬
ture ranging between 65° and 75° with a rise of 5° from fire heat on
dull days is not too much for them. It is also important that a few
of the leaves be tied aside to allow the sun to shine directly on the
bunches, but this exposure ought to be done gradually, otherwise
browned or shrivelled berries may be the result. Some growers
advise Gros Colman to be grown in the Muscat house. In my
opinion this is the wrong place for it. I have never seen perfectly
coloured Colmans produced in a house in which Muscats were
well grown, as the king of white Grapes requires a much greater
amount of artificial heat to bring it to perfection than does the
most imposing of black ones. Any cultivator whose experience
differs from mine in this respect will confer a benefit upon readers
of the Journal by recording it. — Vitis.

PRUNING SHRUBS— CLIPPING HEDGES.

It is well known that shrubs pruned during the winter or early
spring retaliate by producing an abundant crop of shoots. True, it
is often most convenient to do the work connected with shrubberies
when the season is least pressing, but in my experience it generally
occurs that it requires doing over again before the autumn is
reached. I have seen pruning undertaken periodically during the
month of April, but this is too late, as the plants operated on are
made more or less bare at a season when one expects freshness and
beauty. The same results accrue if pruning is delayed till too far
in the autumn. There is certain to be a long-standing eyesore,
ending only when new growth commences the year succeeding.
I find that the month of July and the early part of August
comprises the most suitable period of the year in which to prune
shrubs profitably. In practice I am not particular as to the exact
moment, and, indeed, the time varies according to the exigencies
of each season. The chief thing to be observed is that the work
be overtaken at a time when growth for the season is practically
completed, so that no roughness may appear before another year.
At the same time a little growth is made ensuring that fresh
appearance which is so delightful in a garden.

There are, however, exceptions. Privet when employed as
a hedge requires trimming more than once a year. If left till
the general pruning, the growths made during the season are so
strong that after being cut there is but little foliage to be seen.
The plan with Privet is to cut as often as possible. I have seen
it done three times a year with good effect. The oval-leaved form
is, perhaps, less unsightly after hard cutting than the common
sort, but I clip it also twice a year, in spring and at this period.
Hedges of Taxus elegantissima also require bi-annual pruning ; if
left too long the green has to be cut into, and the beauty of the
hedge destroyed for a time. Young Yew hedges are improved by
cutting often, therefore it is wise to trim these also twice a year.
Holly and Box require trimming once a year only, and if the
hedges are old and large a year may be passed without pruning.

and that to their benefit. Some plants require to be treated
differently than is usual with most hedges. Thus we have a
long hedge of Laurustinus. To prune this with shears would be a
sure means of destroying all prospect of flower the year succeed¬
ing, therefore growths are taken out as they trespass beyond the
general contour required. So also with common Mahonia. It is
necessary to trim this with judgment, as both flower and fruit
are beautiful. We have also a long hedge of White Spruce.
This is cut twice a year. All the young growths are shorn at
present, and during the spring the hedge is again looked over and
any shoots out of bounds pruned.

Rhododendrons should on no account be left unpruned later
than J uly, and the sooner it is done after flowering so much the
better. Rhododendrons may be kept in bounds and flowered pro¬
fusely by cutting out a few growths every year, or every second
year. These shoots ought to be cut fairly well back, so that they
may break behind those left and in due course take their place
when they also have grown beyond their limit. I cut in Laurels
and most other shrubs in much the same way. When once a man
gets into the method it does not take more time than cutting back
the whole face of the shrubs, and it has the advantage of being
less unsightly. — B.

SPRAYING VERSUS INSECT PESTS AND
FUNGOID DISEASES.

Continuing my remarks from page 73, it should be borne
clearly in mind that spraying with fungicides is preventive rather
than remedial. The fungus cannot possibly develop upon leaves
which have been treated with the concoction, as it is poison to it.
This fact then gives us a good idea as to the time of application.
True, the prospect of disease this year is not great, but it has made
a start. The weather at present is exactly suited to its develop¬
ment, and there is ample time for its ravages. As we have found
disease in leaves and tubers contaminating spores will soon fill the
air, and to take due precaution in assisting our plants to resist the
attack is our main chance of escape.

Now is the time to apply the solution of blue vitriol and lime,
choosing a dry day with as little wind as possible. On no account
must spraying be commenced until the dew is off the leaf, as the
mixture is thereby diluted, and, moreover, will not stick to the
foliage. Two dressings, with an interval of one month, will be
sufficient, and the cost does not exceed 18s. to £1 per acre for
each dressing, resulting probably in a gain of at least twice that sum.
A man cannot do thoroughly more than half an acre a day, unless he
has a lad to fill his machine, fetch water, and assist in mixing the
stuff. He should also start work with his back to the wind. The
dressing, when dry, should appear of a whitish-blue colour upon the
leaves. For a day or so it may seem to retard growth, but ex¬
perience teaches me that the vitality of the haulm is ultimately
increased, hence the improvement in weight of the crop.

The efficacy of the mixture is already beginning to show itself.
We have three acres of land under field cultivation, and two acres
are planted with about forty varieties of Potatoes in ^th acre plots.
At the top end of the field a long patch of “ The Daniels ” was
planted by the tenant, and these are very badly diseased. We
purposely left undressed one perch of each of our forty varieties
immediately opposite (a four-yard pathway intervenes) this long
strip of “The Daniels.” On July 26th no trace of disease could
be seen on the plots, but on walking round on the 29th disease
spots could be counted by the dozen upon the undressed perches of
White Elephant, Surprise, Cosmopolitan, Windsor Castle, Satis¬
faction, Abundance, Perfection, Stourbridge Glory, Holborn
Abundance, Magnum Bonum, The Triumph, and The Daniels.
We searched most carefully for spots upon the dressed portion,
but none could be found below the line of rods. We dressed
again on the 31st as our month was up.

I may in passing give one or two practical hints in preparing
and testing the mixture. Be sure and use fresh lime, and slake it
just before mixing, as it then sticks so much better to the foliage ;
use it when warm, and pour it through the strainer of the Eclair
into the tub. Never mix in iron vessels, and especially do not
dissolve the copper in such, as a chemical action is involved, which
gives the mixture a dirty green colour, instead of which it should
be a beautiful blue (royal blue).

In preparing the ferrocvanide of potassium for testing take
half an oz. of the lemon-yello ’ crystals and dissolve in 5 ozs. of cold
water. The solution will be ready for use in twenty minutes, and
will last for a very long time.

With regard to the dressing upon Tomato plants, it is almost too
late now to apply it with safety, for fruit has in most cases formed
and is ripening fast. Such plants should be sprayed before
the blossoms fall, as the disease usually first shows itself upon the

August 3, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

93

older leaves. We must in fact anticipate an attack in accordance
with the season, and be prepared for resistance.

Leaf blight in the Cherry, Plum, and Pear may all be treated
to advantage with the same mixture, but for fruit trees several
dressings are necessary, and should all bo applied before the fruit
has quite set, in order that it may not be tainted and ruined in
colour. The first dressing could be applied just as the leaves begin
to open, and the second directly the blossoms begin to fall. When
the second dose is given, 4 ozs. of Paris green added to every
50 gallons of Bordeaux mixture effectually destroys insects and
grubs.

Before real progress can be made the Eclair will have to rank
as one of the most important requisites of the garden. It is
equally useful for insecticide and fungicide work. It ought to
supersede the syringe for dressing trees upon walls with the well-
known and admirable solution of quassia chips and softsoap, and it
should prove invaluable in the application of kerosene and other
emulsions to Onion beds with the object of scaring and finally
extirpating that terrible pest the Onion fly. — Edward H. Smith,
Warminster.

INSECTS OF THE FLOWER GARDEN.

{Continued from page 25.')

Our flower beds and frames furnish a home to a host of those
small and singular insects which have been dignified into an order
and called the Thysanura. Science has puzzled itself about their
place in Nature ; some would join them to the centipedes or the
Crustaceans ; some think them akin to crickets or dragon flies ;
others put them near the spiders and mites. Entomologists
generally have taken no heed of them, gardeners are mostly
unaware of their existence ; but the microscopist rejoices over
them, for the scales of these insects furnish him with very capital
test objects. Formerly the whole group were also called the
Springtails. This name, however, was found to be only suitable
for part, as they do not all jump or leap, and so they have been
divided into the Thysanura proper, and the Collembola. There
are other differences, too, besides the presence or absence of the
peculiar springing apparatus. All of them show a dislike to light,
hence we have difficulty in getting acquainted with their habits ;
but the Thysanura like warmth, and occur upon dry walls, or in
earth and substances not very moist, while the Collembola seem to
flourish in damp places, and they suffer nothing from the effects
of cold. It is the Collembola that we chiefly meet with in gardens,
since they feed upon decaying leaves, or any kind of vegetable
matter undergoing change, also upon some fungi, and they occur
upon growing plants ; sometimes they swarm in our frames, being
partial to succulent species. Collembola, though from their minute
size they are frequently unnoticed, infest some of the flower beds,
attacking leaves near the soil, the crowns or bulbs of plants, as well
as some roots, and weaken, if they cannot kill. On the other hand,
it is in their favour that they help to decompose substances which
become then valuable as manure.

As in all true insects, the body is, amongst the Collembola,
divided into three sections — head, thorax, and abdomen ; the head
bears the antennie and mouth organs, the six legs are attached to
the thorax, and the abdomen has the saltatorial appendage, with its
catch and spring. Some have the skin protected by scales, and
others are hairy. Upon the heads of some are a number of round
colourless points, which have been taken for eyes, but which are
really organs of tonch. The simple eyes are behind the antennae,
and form two little groups, one each side of the head. At the
mouth we find a pair of fine feelers or palpi and a pair of jaws,
which are long, and strengthened by horny muscles ; within the
mouth is a double and complicated system of teeth, which the
insects use far too effectively sometimes upon young leaves and
tender rootlets. Amongst these little creatures a few species
occur that are blind, yet they, in spite of this disadvantage, move
about with activity and decision ; probably their antennae are
specially sensitive. Some species have not the leaping apparatus
that most possess, which has the form of r sort of fork, having a
spring and catch. When we see one of them jump, it appears to
us a wonderful display of muscular force perhaps, yet it is not so
much by effort that it is made as by the elasticity of the spring,
and in this way force is economised. Sir John Lubbock has
remarked that many people might suppose that in these insects,
and in some of similar habit, the condition of inactivity was one of
repose, though the muscles might be ready to move at the slightest
impulse, but he thinks the position of rest is one of high tension,
there is then a conflict of opposing forces, which for awhile balance
each other. He takes, for comparison, the case of certain Orchids,
where the part of the flower which insects visit is not close to the
pollen, yet the plants depend on insects for fertilisation. In
Catasetum there is found a long sensitive (process, which overhangs

the place where insects are likely to settle, so that when they arrive
it is almost certain they will touch it. Immediately they do this
the flower starts into action, and throws its pollen masses in the
direction of the insect, with such force that they will travel 2 or
3 feet. It is evident, therefore, that the plant is on the qui vive,
just as an insect might be, waiting to put forth its power at the
moment it is needed.

Returning to the Collembola we notice the singular fact that
species which are leapers, and those which cannot leap because they
possess no spring, are often to be found in company under the
same piece of board or amidst a little pile of decaying leaves.
More than that, some of those having the ability to jump occur
in localities where leaping performances are hardly possible. The
present season, owing to its dryness, has not been favourable to the
increase of the insects ; one who has studied their habits reports
that they are speedily killed by a weak solution of salt. Smyn-
thures fuscus, about one-tenth of an inch in length, is one of the
largest of the tribe, and feeds chiefly on fungi upon trees, fences,
or elsewhere. Its relative, S. viridis, which has green eyes and
red antennse, prefers lawns and borders, where it occurs from May
to September. The species of Papirius are very active, running and
jumping gracefully ; they have globular bodies and long antennae,
in colour some are brown, some black and green. It appears that
in the summer they frequent damp wood, but during the winter
months they may be sometimes detected on the leaves of evergreens
and other plants in gardens.

In the genus Degeeria hairs replace scales ; some of these hairs
are club-like, and others resemble a bow, and have even a seeming
notch at the end, representing that to which the string is attached.
They have sixteen eyes, and the body is prettily mottled. Upon
some of the old-fashioned wooden edges to flower beds which one
comes upon now and then the Degeerias occur abundantly, above
and beneath the soil. Orchesella cincta is also without scales. This
is a common species amongst dead leaves, which it helps to disin¬
tegrate ; in colour it is black, barred with yellow, sometimes
entirely black. Larger than most of its kin is Tomocerus longi-
cornis, named from its long antenna. It is well equipped in lead-
coloured scales, and can brave the cold of winter, even when severe.

The species of Seira are scaly, some of them dark hued, some
have bright metallic tints ; they are rather partial to conservatories
and hothouses. One that is rare, called S. curvicollis, has a thorax
projecting over the head, which gives the insect somewhat of the
aspect of a hippopotamus. Lipura fimitaria requires no leaping
apparatus, since its life is passed in feeding upon the roots or
underground stems of plants ; it is white and velvety, short-legged
and stout, quick in movement, though we often turn up small parties
of them when digging or hoeing. Quite different in colour is Anoura
muscorum, being dark purple, about one - fourteenth of an inch
long, dotted over with points arranged in rows (as a magnifying glass
shows us), the mouth has a sucker and not jaws. It seems to lodge
under the bark of shrubs, and in the joints or hollows of stems,
but does not appear to be particularly hurtful One more species I
may mention which occurs in damp earth, but has a preference for
the warmer corners and sides of our beds ; this is Campodea staphy-
linus, a soft white, narrow-bodied insect, having neither scales nor
eyes, and which many persons might regard as a mite. —
Entomologist.

EASTERN LILIES.

Under the above title, which has the merit of comprehensiveness,
are included the Liliums of the Levant, of Siberia, Persia, India, China,
and Japan. L. candidum, one of the most beautiful and perhaps thenaost
familiar of Lilies, is Levantine, davuricum or umbellatum is Siberian,
giganteum cordifolium is a native of the Himalayas, tigrinum comes
from China, while auratum, longiflorum, and speciosum are of Japanese
extraction. The American Lilies are for the most part interesting
hybrids, and the Bermuda Lily, Lilium Harris!, is just the Japanese
longiflorum, as I learn from Dr. Wallace of Colchester, somewhat modified
and improved in appearance and productiveness by tropical cultivation.
But it is not more impressive, as experience has proved to me, than
Lilium longiflorum giganteum, which comes to this country direct from
Japan. This variety, though its name is somewhat similar, must not be
confounded with the great Himalayan giganteum, which I must confess
to have found somewhat disappointing. I planted it in a finely sheltered
and otherwise congenial situation last November, and attended inost
faithfully to the instructions of Dr. Wallace regarding its cultivation,
yet, owing perhaps to the exceptional dryness of the summer, it only
attained to a height of 4 feet. It, however, produced several magnificent
blooms (ivory white with violet-crimson streaks), which was undoubtedly
a great consolation. Nevertheless, I think this Lily is over-estimated,
when I compare it with the much more beautiful Lilium auratum
or Golden-rayed Lily, which is now in full bloom. Its^ flowers
are unusually large with me this year, being in many instances
12J inches in diameter. Among other species that grow luxuriantly
with me are candidum, davuricum, croceum, tigrinum, Thunbergianum

9i

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 3, 1893.

(or “ elegans ”), martagon, longiflorum, and speciosum ; of the last
mentioned I have several exquisite varieties, such as album, roseum,
rubrum, and Kroetzeri. Of all the speciosums I am persuaded that
Kroetzeri is by far the most valuable ; its colour is the purest white, it
is very prolific, remarkable for durability, and easily grown.

The Lily is now, even as it was in the days of William Cowper, the
rival of the Rose. If the latter is the queen the former is assuredly the
empress of flowers. I admit that the Rose for brilliancy of colour and
perfect sweetness of fragrance is not surpassed ; but for stateliness,
imperial majesty, and imposing splendour of aspect there can be no
rivalry with the Lilium auratum. No flowers are more impressive in
their perfect purity and beauty than Lilium candidum and Lilium
longiflorum. How deeply we regret the absence of these when their
season, always too transitory, has passed ; when, like the last Rose of
summer, they are “faded and gone.” During their short-lived reign
they seem to make the very atmosphere of our gardens more exquisitely
pure. No picture can delineate the full expressiveness of their beauty ;
they have a charm of sweetness most sacred in its meaning which no
pen can describe, because they are the work of a mystic ineffable art
our utmost efforts fail to find. — David R. Williamson.

POCKET-BOOK NOTES.

These jottings will not be of much account, they can be private if
you like, but I thought I would write them just to say that this week’s
Joxornal of Horticulture is more than usually interesting. Some
numbers are so, at least they are so to readers, if not to editors and
compilers.

To begin. I enjoyed “An Anglo-American Day ” thoroughly, and
in imagination formed one of the very pleasant company who had such
“ a good day ” in such an unique round of visits. “ Orchids ” I do not
indulge in, I am a spade and wheelbarrow man, and “ Spraying ”
has not yet become one of my round of duties.

The Rose correspondence I enjoyed immensely. It carried me back
to the days of nearly forty years ago, when I showed my first Roses,
large, full blown, and to me glorious, but which the Judges refused to
look at, to my disgust and inward wrath. Fortunately for me a good
rosarian, one of the best the midlands has produced, though only a
working man, came across me in that state of indignation, and he most
kindly but faithfully, very faithfully, as I felt at the time, showed me
where I was wrong, and that Roses should be cut and staged in all their
maiden loveliness ; or, as Mr. Charles J. Grahame says, page 73, quoting
from the N.R.S. definitions of a good Rose, “ in the most perfeet phase
of their possible beauty.” The lesson I never forgot. I trust Mr.
David R. Williamson may be as benefited by the plain speaking of his
brother rosarians as I was. Through a long life I have found that
these friendly rebukes, though at the time somewhat hard to bear,
are the best things that could come to us.

“ Parsley for Winter and Spring ” is a timely little note. I always
sow a frame, or part of it, of nine lights in which I grow my earliest
Potatoes, with Parsley about midsummer, and the other part with
Lettuces, &c., for winter a little later. This gives me an unlimited supply
of Parsley all through the winter and spring. A friend and neigh¬
bour of mine always throws a pinch or two of Parsley seed about August
on the soil of his orchard house, and thus gets over the difficulty of a
scarcity of it in a hard winter. _

“Notes and Gleanings” I usually read first, and this week one of
them gave me a shoek, for, though a near neighbour, I had not heard of
the illness of Mr. Pithers of Chilwell, and the news of his death startled
me. I can emphasise all you say of him and more, for he was one of
the pleasantest of companions, not only in a gardening tour round his
beloved Chrysanthemums, but also in a friendly professional confab
with a few gardening cronies. Amongst these he could let himself out
and give and take with the keenest enjoyment.

_ “ Scarlet Runner Beans Not Setting.” This fact is rather prominent
this season, and I think we must look to the absence of bees to account
for it. I have amongst my gardening scraps notes of a paper by
Professor Henslow given some years ago, in which he demonstrates quite
plainly that this family of Beans must be pollenised by insect agency in
this country, or they will be inevitably barren ; the construction of the
flower making it so. This was only the case with respect to the Runner
Bean, the form of the flower of the Dwarf Bean being quite different
and self-fertilising. The subject is worth discussing.

In 1855, in Sir Joseph Paxton’s days, I made the same journey from
Sheffield to Baslow and Chatsworth which “W. P. W.” did, and I
enjoyed going over the old route with him, in his visit to Chatsworth,
our “ Palace of the Peak.” I have never forgotten that visit and never
shall, and, though “W. P, W.” has seen, and will see, many other
gardens, I do not think he will see another Chatsworth. By this, he
and you will see that one person enjoyed reading pages 80 and 81.

I must not go on, though the reports of the shows are deeply
interesting, that of Trentham very much so. Reports of shows have a

tendency to become monotonous and wearisome, but those of the Journa
of Horticulture are exceptions, inasmuch as that the Editor allows the
personality of each reporter to appear more fully and pronouncedly than
do the Editors of other gardening papers. The blue pencil does not
dash out all original expressions of opinion, thus leaving the report as
if done by a machine, and therefore there is in their reports a freshness
and brightness' often absent in others. — P. H. N.

PECULIARITIES OF APHIS LIFE— EAST WINDS.

I BEG to thank “ Entomologist ” for his note on this subject, on
page 505 of the last volume. He is quite right in presuming I spoke of
A. Pruni as the Plum aphis, although there was some difference of
opinion as to the species when I introduced them at a meeting of fruit
growers at Evesham, in February, 1890, from Prune Damson trees grow¬
ing in an exposed orchard. A gentleman who had a copy of Mr.
B nekton’s excellent work wrote me afterwards confirming my opinion.
It cannot be too deeply impressed on the minds of fruit growers that
these mothers of millions in future generations are exposed on the
unopen buds at the base or neck, taking their nourishment at the only
vulnerable point of attack, and that applications of strong insecticides
will not injure the buds at that time. I have tried experiments on some
trees, leaving others untouched, and as the seasons advanced the contrast
was most marked. I do not, of course, deny that aphides take flight
when at maturity, and spread themselves to “ fresh fields and pastures
new ; ” but the general or popular delusion that they come from some
mysterious place in the “ east winds” is exploded, so far as I am con¬
cerned. Many I have seen on flight on a warm still day, and the wind
south-east ; but the source is not far to seek on examining the back of
the foliage of Plum trees.

As an illustration as to the popular idea respecting this kind of
blight, perhaps I may mention one case which came under observation
about a month ago. A man who has a few acres of orcharding called
on me. I asked him about fruit prospects, and his reply was to this
effeet, if not in exact words, “ Oh, the Plum trees are all ‘ shrimed ’ up
with blight, and the bloom all fell off. I wish you would come and see
them, and tell me what I am to do.” I said it was too late to do much
good, as the aphides were then inside the curled foliage. If he had
attended the lectures in the village in February and March and seen the
mothers on the buds and specimens under the microscopes as others did,
and took action, he could easily have counteracted the attack to a great
extent, if not entirely. As usual in such cases he commenced blaming
the “ east winds ” in spring, yet, as everybody knows, we had less east
wind and so-called “blight clouds” and more blight than usual, on
account of the warmth and dry weather. I then pointed out Plum
trees on walls east, west, north, and south all free from blight, or nearly
so, saying at the same time if east winds were the cause surely it would
have caught some of them. I next called his attention to the streaks of
lime, soap, and petroleum below the branches, the residuum from the
spring dressing, as the preventive to the “ east wind ” notion and where
blights come from. I then took him into the house and showed him the
viviparous mothers and their families of young wingless aphides in all
stages of growth, remarking at the same time they could not have com«
in east winds, as they had no wings to fly with from the mysterious
unknown source. As this was his first acquaintance with a microscope
he was much interested in the matter. At my leisure I gave him a
call (three miles away), and found his orchard and garden trees in a sad
plight from aphides and caterpillars of the winter moth. He called my
particular attention to a Hawthorn hedge, which was blighted and brown
as if scorched with fire for a distance of about 20 yards, he asking how
I could account for that. I took off a few shoots with the curled
foliage, and showed him the eaterpillars in the rolled leaves as they
came tumbling out on being stirred. I again referred him to the east
wind notion and blight, pointing out that almost to a foot the hedge was
protected from the east winds by buildings where it looked so bad, and
that the moths when laying their eggs must have been very careful not
to expose themselves and their future progeny to its influence, and that
the surrounding hedges exposed to east winds were free from blight.

There is another popular idea respecting aphis attack that I do not
agree with, over which I have had many contentions in a friendly way
with some of the best gardeners — viz., their preference for unhealthy
trees and plants. My experience is that they “ go for ” the best and
most succulent, and that by degrees they bring the plants into the bad
condition by sucking the sap to sueh an extent as to bring them into a
decrepit state before they are noticed, or before steps have been taken
to save the plants or trees. The worst attack I have met with from
Aphis pruni I can safely say is at the Toddington fruit plantations, and I
sineerely hope experiments will be made early next spring with Messrs.
Stott’s killmright at the right time before the bloom is open, dressing
alternate trees or definite lines, leaving others, and I have no doubt as to
results in the following summer. — J. Hiam, Astwood Banli.

NOTES FROM IRELAND.

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, two miles north-east of the
city of Dublin, are of easy access by tram which passes the gates, before
reaching which. Prospect Cemetery, bounding the gardens on the south
is passed. A conspicuous landmark is the lofty monumental tower mark¬
ing the last resting-place of O’Connell. In the Botanic Gardens many
fine and rare trees and shrubs stand as memories of the late curator

August 3, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

95

Dr. Moore ; the same good work is carried on and kept up to date by
hia son, the present curator, iono publico, and how much the public
avail themselves of the privilege statistics show by the ever-increasing
number of visitors, though you may be stopped by the official-looking
janitor at the gates and bid inscribe your name in the book. This time
I slipped in unchallenged, but was immediately arrested by a fine
Paulownia imperialis with a grand timber-like trunk ; this would be
worthy of a special visit when in flower, but I fear that, as in England,
spring frosts are its bete noir.

Hunting up Mr. Moore’s lieutenant, whom I had met a few hours
previously at the Koyal Horticultural Society’s Summer Show arranging
one of those fine groups which so materially aid our exhibitions, we
enter the new Palm house, 100 feet long, 60 feet wide, 66 feet high,
well furnished with fine specimens. One notable example of the Sago
Palm sweeps up to the roof, and as I look up the 66 feet, Mr. Pope looks
back on forty years and speaks of the time he had carried it himself from
one house to another. Very noble, too, is a giant Bamboo rivalling the
Palm in height ; here also are the Browneas, not now in their gorgeous
inflorescence. The abrupt ending of this house in a heavy wall is not
a pleasing coup d'aU, but Begonias and the Monstera are at home on it
and Tradescantia very much so.

From here we enter the Fern house where, amongst the many plants,
Davallia Mooreana, 8 feet through, stands pre-eminent, and the quaint
Conifer-like Lycopodium squarrosum from the Himalayas claims
attention. The next division contains Orchids, including some large
Sobralias, of which xantholeuca is in flower and also the deep rich
Cattleya Sanderiana. Cypripediums are largely represented. Parrishi
is fine, and very pretty is Trichopilia Wagneri with pale green sepals
and white lip.

The curvilinear range, 350 feet long in five divisions, contains a
vast collection, that of Bromeliads being the largest extant. Succulents,
too, are in vast array. Napoleona (Bonapartea) imperialis is a fine
Citron-foliaged shrub with a Passion-flower-like blossom, and very
pleasing are the soft pale yellow blossoms of Bignonia Chamberlaini.
Illumining a back wall in one division is the golden Cassia laevigata.
Leaving this range the aquatic house comes next, where the Victoria
regia rightly holds sovereign sway, whilst floating round the outer leaves
Pistia stratiotes, the Water Soldier, acts as a guard of honour to the
Water Queen, a small overshot wheel fed by a pipe keeps the water in
circulation ; huge p'ants of Caladiums, exceptionally fine, stand on the
edges of the tank and side stages, and Nymphaeas rosea and coerulea are
in beauty inside and outside in an overflow tank ; near this house is one
devoted to tree Ferns.

Entering the private grounds “Mums ” (unworthy abbreviation, why
not Chrysanths ?) are in strong force, and call forth some notes of
admiration from me while my guide strikes a discordant one by asking,
“ Are they worth the trouble ? ” But he regards with such an air of
fatherly affection the sturdy brown legs of his 600 children that I con¬
clude without resorting to the argumentum ad hominem that we are both
on the one side. In the private houses is a fine collection of Odonto-
glossums and Masdevallias. Mr. Moore has an army, some in flower, more
curious than handsome, and though it may be heresy to say so, here in
the cool temperature is the prince of Pitchers the Rajah, the only plant in
Ireland . Alas 1 that it should be so. To describe “ His Highness ’’ I should
say that he is short and stout, yet withal having a dignity quite his own,
holding the same position in the great family of Nepenthes that the
Eastern potentate does to his subjects, an idea helped out perhaps by the
“ gobble you up ” appearance of the brown - hued pitchers, hence
perhaps the reason for guarding a magnificent Cephalotus with a bell-
glass, and preventing a catastrophe. Darlingtonias and Droseras are
671 masse. A house of Filmy Ferns is fine, with grand Todeas, a cartload
of the Killarney Fern, and many choice Hymenophyllums. Another
house is filled with choice Zonal Pelargoniums and Tuberous Begonias
over which my friend lingers lovingly, but I have trespassed long
enough on his time, two hours have slipped by all too quickly but very
pleasantly. — E. K.

SOBRALIA LEDCOXANTHA.

This beautiful Orchid does not appear to have become very
plentiful yet, judging by its non-appearance in many collections,
notwithstanding that it has been known to specialists for some
years. The plant is dwarf in habit, the slender stems 1 to 2 feet
high, bearing plicate leaves like those of other better known Sobra¬
lias, and the flowers are clustered near the apex of the stem. It
is related to S. macrophylla, but must not be confounded with
S. xantholeuca, also a valuable and handsome plant bearing pale
yellow flowers.

When well grown the flowers are really handsome. The sepals
on some blooms I have are nearly .3 inches long and 1 inch broad,
massive, pure white, and recurving. The petals are of similar
length and breadth, slightly recurving, not quite so thick as the

sepals, but pure white. The lip is partially tubular, the tube
2 inches long, the limb rounded one-half to three-quarters of an
inch across, and beautifully frilled, rich orange, yellow in the throat
fading to the margin, which is pure white ; the base of the lip and
the column are also white. Each flower is very neat in form, the
wax-like substance and purity being beautifully relieved by the
dash of orange in the lip. An illustration of this charming Orchid
would doubtless interest your readers. — Specialist.

[The engraving (fig. 15) depicts a bloom of Sobralia leuco-
xantha.]

New Orchids.

Among other interesting features of the July number of the
“ Kew Bulletin,” a copy of which has come to hand, are some notes
on “ New Orchids.” Ten species that have flowered at Kew or

FIG. 15. — sobralia LEUCOXANTHA.

have been determined there are described, and as being of special
interest to our readers we extract the four notes which follow this
paragraph.

Polystachya imbricata.

This species was sent by Mr. J. O’Brien of Harrow-on-the-Hill,
Middlesex, with whom it flowered in August, 1891. It may be
placed near to P. ensifolia, Llndl., which, however, has much longer
leaves and a lax inflorescence. There does not appear to be any
species with which the present one can easily be confused. The
sepals are pale yellow, the lateral ones suffused with pink along the
margins ; the petals straw colour, and the lip pink, with a yellow
callus, and wholly pubescent inside.

Oncidium luteum.

This Oncidium flowered in the collection of Sir Trevor
Lawrence, Bart., Dorking, in June, 1892, when it was sent to
Kew for determination. It is closely allied to O. chrysopyramis,
Rchh. /., but that species has invariably a broader isthmus to the
lip, and a few other structural differences which seem to indicate
the distinctness of the present one. Its flowers are uniformly light
yellow, and borne in a large lax panicle. It belongs to a group of
species in which the column and its elongated rostellum resemble
the head and beak of a bird, from which one of the species,
O. ornithorhynchum, Ku7ith, derived its specific name. Lindley
distributed the species into four or five different sections, but they
are so intimately allied as to leave no doubt of their forming
natural group, which may bear the name Rostrata (a name used by
Lindley in a more restricted sense). About twenty species bave
been described, but several of them are still very imperfectly
known.

96

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 3, 1393.

HABENAPaA CINNABARINA.

This species was introduced by Messrs. W. L. Lewis & Co. of
Southgate, together with Disa incainata, Lhidl., and Cynorchis
grandiflora, Ridl. The colour of its flowers is rather unusual,
beingj cinnabar-orange, with a few red spots on the back of the
sepals, and thus resembling those of Disa incarnata from the same
locality. The plant here described has nine flowers and buds, but
appears as if very imperfectly developed, and normal specimens
may be much larger. It is very different from everything hitherto
described from Madagascar, so far as can be discovered, but its
exact affinity remains a little doubtful.

Luisia Amesiana.

This species was sent to Kew by Messrs. Hugh Low & Co. of
Clapton in June, 1891. who state that it was imported together
with Vanda Kimballiana, Rchh. f. Thus its habitat must be on
the hills of the southern Shan States, at 4000 to 5000 feet elevation.
Shortly afterwards it was sent by Messrs. F. Sander & Co. of St.
Albans, who gave its native country as “ Burma.” It has since
been received from Glasnevin. It is allied to L. macrotis, Bchh
but has flowers more than twice as large. The sepals and petals
are pale yellowish white, slightly suffused with purple near the
apex, and having a few obscure dull purple markings on the back.
The lip is suffused with purple, and blotched with dark purple, the
margin being light greenish yellow. The column is pale green.

Orchids in the Open Air.

As many readers of these pages are aware. Orchids have for a
long time formed a special feature at The Orange, Carshalton, the
residence of A. H. Smee, Esq., whose name is well known in horti¬
cultural circles, and on a recent visit to “ My Garden ” it was seen
that the enthusiasm in this respect had by no means abated. Mr.
Smee is apparently as fond of his Orchids as he is of his fruit, and
in Mr. G. W. Cummins he has an able cultivator. Several houses
are devoted to Orchids, and a large collection has been brought
together. The plants, moreover, are for the most part remarkably
healthy, and when in flower doubtless produce a bright effect.

The most noteworthy feature in regard to the Orchids at “ My
Garden,” as Mr. Smee terms the beautiful grounds attached to his
house, however, is the fact that hundreds of them are grown in the
open air during the summer. This is not news to old readers of the
Journal, inasmuch as references to this fact have frequently been
made, and an illustration appeared in the issue for October 30th,
1884, demonstrating cleaily the method in which the Orchids are
managed. Much the same exists at the present time, and a sojourn
outdoors for a few months proves so beneficial to the plants that
Mr. Cummins adopts the plan every season. It must not be
imagined, though, that everyone “ may go and do likewise.” Were
such the case it is very probable that thousands of Orchids would
annually collapse, for, notwithstanding that some species are easy
to manage under glass, they quickly resent any sudden and
extreme climatical changes. This, of course, is known to most
Orchid growers, and, therefore, it is not at all surprising that
they are sometimes slow to adopt new ideas in preference to old-
world plans. But, as already remarked, it has been proved that
Orchids can be grown outdoors during the summer under favour¬
able circumstances.

In the garden alluded to there are facilities that cannot be
found in every establishment. “ My Garden ” is charmingly situated,
being well watered and intercepted by several small streams from
the river Wandle. Dells and winding walks exist, and these, being
covered with a canopy of foliage, form excellent places for the
plants. No drying winds and scorching atmosphere, the bane of
Orchids, can reach the plants. On all sides Ferns luxuriate, and
the plants are placed on open lathed platforms directly over and
at about a foot from the water. Several hundreds are subjected
to this treatment, and the whole of them appear to revel in the
cool moist surroundings. In one dell, amidst trees which afford
abundance of shade, we find a collection of Masdevallias, some of
which are in flower, whilst in another part of the garden may be
seen a group of Odontoglossums in variety. Lycastes, too, and
numerous cool-house Orchids are placed in the positions indicated
during the summer. Most of the plants present a healthy
appearance, so different to the sickly hue which is a characteristic
in those kept under glass during scorching weather.

All kinds of Orchids are not, however, subjected indiscriminately
to the open air treatment. Years of experience have taught Mr.
Cummins what plants will do well under such circumstances, and
those that will not. The latter are kept under glass, together with
the kinds that require a warmer temperature than can be obtained
under natural circumstances in this country, even during an
exceptionally “ favourable ” summer. In the latter category we
may place Cattleyas, of which the best and most choice forms are

grown. Last week several were in flower, including the beautiful
C. Mossim Hardyana. Cypripediums are well represented, and the
same may be said of other Orchids. Arranged in a charming
fernery many of them make a fine display when in bloom. — C .

NOTES BY THE WAY.

There are pleasant examples of English scenery around the little
Sussex town of East Grinstead, north of which lie the Surrey hills, east
Ashdown forest, and southwards the South Downs ; there is therefore
little wonder that the locality has tempted many wealthy Londoners and
others to establish estates in its vicinity. The breezes which sweep down
from the forest are robust and invigorating, carrying, perhaps, a little
ozone from the salt waters lying some twenty-five miles beyond them.
Possibly they are a little too convincing in the winter and spring, but
even then their influences cannot be very malevolent, otherwise there
would be something less significant of healthfulness than the death-rate
of under ten per 1000 to which Grinsteadians now proudly point. For
these reasons, not less than for the fact that there are many places of
interest in the neighbourhood, horticulturists of a wandering turn may
do far worse than spend a few days in the little town near the Surrey
border.

There was a time when a gardeners’ society existed there. Neigh¬
bouring blue aprons lifted up their voices in instructive intercourse
with their fellows, shook their heads sagely over knotty problems,
pulverised trembling opponents with eloquent invective, and brought
examples of their skill as ramrods to drive home the bullets of argument.
Where is that Society now ? Why is the council chamber empty ; the
Demosthenes and Ciceros of the locality silent ; and all things in a state
of stagnation ? I visited Grinstead in days gone by, and there was talk
of meetings and shows, of papers and discussions, of competitions and
medals — everything, in fact, to stir up gardening talent and give gar¬
deners something special to think and talk about as well as to work for.
I return ; and, lo 1 the meetings are no more, the papers unwritten, and
the cobwebs settling down upon the brains of the orators. It is a sad
change, and it is natural for a visitor to wonder what has brought it
about.

But wondering is not knowing. Trouble appears to have arisen in
various ways. The excellent President, Mr. George Truscott, took unto
himself a wife, and fixed his quarters in the neighbouring county.
Another official took something else and also quitted the scene. Active
members became disgusted with the supineness of the majority, and it is
a fact worth noting that the greater number of the members of most
associations consider that those who are willing to work for it and them
are honoured by being allowed to do so. From these and other causes
things went wrong, and the end of it was that the Society’s affairs were
wound up, and its career of usefulness terminated. Gardeners of
Grinstead, this is not well. When Greece fought Troy she lacked the
services of only one of her great warriors, but here all play the part of
Achilles, and there is no one to carry on the work so well begun a few
years ago. If there were no good men in the neighbourhood this state of
things would not be so surprising, but there are numerous fine places
and practical men, besides the usual complement of cottagers and
amateurs.

There is Dunn of Oakleigh, a smart young gardener and generally
intelligent, cut out for a secretary if there ever was one ; Simmons,
gardener at Mr. Murchison’s beautiful place, whose speeches are still
talked about ; Glen of Brambletye, a canny Scot, whose native shrewd¬
ness has been sharpened up by a sojourn amongst the Yorkshire Tykes ;
Draper of Plaw Hatch, a gardening Lawson in his mixture of wit and
wisdom ; Harris of Hammerwood, a first-rate vegetable grower ; Jupp of
Felbridge, whose Conifers are something to be proud of ; Boland of
Imberhorne, whose special qualities I have had no opportunity of find¬
ing out ; Prentice of Paddock Hurst, about whom I am equally ignorant,
and quite a number of men in smaller places. Here is material enough
for a practical set of officials and working committee to begin with.
Why do they not set to work and make a fresh start ? With a long
pull, a strong pull, and a pull altogether the Society could be put on its
feet again. Who is going to take the lead?

Mentioning these gardeners and their places suggests to me that a
few jottings about them may be of interest. I will not study any order
of precedence nor attempt formal reports, but make a few random remarks
about them as they come, beginning with Oakleigh. This is the residence
and estate of Sir Francis Wyatt Truscott, ex-Lord Mayor of London,
prince of printers, director of railways, and otherwise a very prominent
figure in the higher City circles. His house is a delightful one, standing
on high ground and commanding a splendid view of the surrounding
country. The establishment might almost be termed a model one,
every department being in admirable order. The work of development
and improvement has been carried out on substantial lines. There has
been no jerry-building or cheap-jack fitting, but everything looks solid
and enduring. The fields are well fenced, the cottages handsome and
well built, the stables, outbuildings, and garden walls thoroughly con¬
structed, the vineries. Peach houses, and garden fittings generally of the
best type. It is quite clear that Sir Francis is a firm believer in good
work, not caring for tinsel and flashiness.

August 3, 1833. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

97

If there is one thing in the gardens likely to interest gardening
visitors more than another it is a splendid fruit cage constructed against
the northern wall of the kitchen garden. About the wall itself there
hangs a story. Though substantially put together it is much exposed,
and a considerable portion of it was blown down by a terrific hurricane
two or three years ago, carrying with it, of course, the promising line of
cordon trees which Mr. F. Dunn, estate manager and gardener, was
beginning to look upon so proudly. Pride goes, we know, before a fall ;
in this case it was the wall and not the grower of the trees who came to
grief, but no doubt he sorrowed extremely for all that. All good
gardeners grieve to see evil come upon the property of an esteemed
and respected employer as much as they do upon the wreck of their
own handiwork. The wall fell, like the society before referred to, but
Oakleigh knows no failure. In a short space it rose again, better and
stronger than before, fresh trees were planted, and once more the chest
measurement of the gardener increases as he gazes upon it.

I return to the cage, which is really something out of the common
and worthy of special attention, for such a fixture would be of the
utmost value in any garden. It is 216 feet long and 12 feet wide. The
wall is 12 feet high, and from it projects a glass coping 2 feet 6 inches
wide ; the cage arching gracefully from the coping to the ground.
These figures will show that it is spacious, and “cage ” is perhaps hardly
the word to apply to it, especially as the birds have no chance of
becoming acquainted with anything more than the outside of it.
Two-inch galvanised iron piping, painted black and fixed beneath the
front of the coping, constitutes the supports, and angle iron arches
perforated for the strand wires sustain the covering, which is of |-inch
mesh wire netting, the strand wires being about a foot apart. There is
a netted door at each end, and completeness is added by the spouting
connected with the coping, by which rain is conveyed to a pipe emptying
itself into a tank in one corner.

The advantages of such a structure as this are pretty obvious. The
smallest bird which British fruit growers have to contend with has no
chance of scraping its hungry body through the netting, nor can the
most wily member of the feathered tribe imitate the small boy outside
the circus and gain admission by crawling under. It is clearly a case of
“no admittance” to thrush and blackbird, sparrow and finch. Wasps
are not debarred of course, nor moths and other egg-laying pests, but all
such have a watchful enemy. Moreover, the coping acts as a protection
to the wall trees. One improvement, and one only, suggests itself, and
that is to have this moveable, so that it might be raised to admit genial
showers to the border. A batten path is provided, which can be readily
removed to permit of cultural operations and does away with the
disadvantage of a hard, trodden walk.

A large amount of choice dessert fruit may be grown in a cage
such as this. On the back wall at Oakleigh is a collection of cordon
Pears and Plums, flanked by an Apricot cropping heavily at each end.
The cordons were planted in October, 1891, after the rebuilding of the
fallen wall, and have made remarkable progress. But they have been
well treated. The soil was removed to a depth of about 21 feet, and
fresh loam resting on a foundation of lime rubbish was substituted.
The trees were planted firmly 18 inches apart, and well mulched. No
manure was put in the soil. The result is that they have made free
but fruitful growth, and are now bearing good crops. The Plums —
Jefferson’s, Cox’s Emperor, Peach, Washington, and Prince Englebert —
are full of fruit. The Pears comprise Thompson’s, Duchesse d'Angou-
leme, Zephirin Gr^goire, Doyenne Boussoch, Beurr^ Bachelier, Doyenn6
du Comice, Bergamotte Esperen, Calixte Mignot, Beurr^ d’Anjou,
Clapp’s Favourite, Beurr^ Diel, Beurr6 Superfin, Prineess, Glou Morgeau,
Pitmaston Duchess, Louise Bonne of Jersey, General Toddleben, Jersey
Gratioli, Vicar of Winkfield, Beurrd Alexandre Lucas, Mar^chal de
Cour, and Durondeau — by no means a bad selection.

The front portion of the cage is devoted to choice Cherries, Goose¬
berries, and Currants. Cherries of such varieties as May Duke, Late
Black Bigarreau, Black Tartarian, Elton, Early Rivers, Royal
Duke, and Bigarreau Napoleon are trained to the angle iron supports ;
and Gooseberries are being trained toasting-fork fashion up the netting.
A row of Gooseberries is planted behind them, and further in the
interior is another row, planted alternately with Black, Red, and White
Currants. At present these are young bushes bearing light crops, but
when they have filled their allotted space they will give a very accept¬
able supply of fruit. So much satisfaction has the fruit cage given that
there is talk of erecting another one against a wall with a west aspect.
If this sort of thing goes on it will be bad for the neighbours, as the
birds will flock to them in disgust.

The Oakleigh gardens are in excellent order throughout, and Mr.
Dunn need not be afraid of his work being seen. The Peaches and
Vines are particularly well done, being a wonderful contrast to the con¬
dition they were in when I saw them on his taking charge five years ago.
They are now well furnished with healthy growth, and bearing excellent
crops. The early Peach house, in which are two large trees of Barring¬
ton and Violette Hative, have yielded magnificent fruit, which, if
exhibited, would have taken a great deal of beating in the best company.
The rejuvenation of the trees shows how plastic Peaches are in skilful
hands. The outdoor fruit is also well managed. Apples, Pears, and
Plums are all cropping admirably. One walk in the kitchen garden is

lined with rows of cordons, a substantial erection being provided for
their support. It is high enough to give them a good run, and they are
doing all the better for it. The restriction principle is often carried to
such an extent as to starve the trees into comparative barrenness. ^'More
Grinstead gleanings another week. — W. P. W.

As inquiries have reached us as to the character of the circular
recently issued by Mr. C. J. Grahame, owing to the circular and envelope
being headed “ National Rose Society,” we think it should be clearly
understood by our members— 1, That Mr. Grahame has resigned his
position as a member of the Committee. 2, That the document in
question has no official sanction whatever. — H. Honywood D’Ombeain,
Edwaed Mawley, Hon, Secs.

Me. Geahame’s QuestioisS to Rosaeians.

Ix order to obtain the views of as many members of the National
Rose Society as possible on certain subjects which have been under
discussion for some time past in regard to the Society’s arrangements,
Mr. Charles J. Grahame has posted the following questions to a number
of gentlemen with a request to be favoured with early replies.

1, Do you think the annual Tea Rose Show at the London Scottish
Drill Hall, Westminster, advantageous or otherwise to the Society and
its exhibitors, and would you maintain or abolish it ?

2, (a) About what date do you consider best for our annual

Metropolitan Show ? (&) Do you think Saturday the best day on

which to hold that meeting, or do you think the exact day of the week
immaterial ?

3, About what date do you consider best for the Provincial Show,
bearing in view that this meeting should be fixed chiefly to suit
growers in late districts.

4 (a) Do you think two Metropolitan Shows of equal importa,nce
would be preferable to the present arrangement of a Metropolitan
and Provincial Show ? (5) Or if the arrangements for the two shows

be left as they now are, would you divide the prize money more
equally ?

5, Do you think it would be desirable that candidates for member
ship in our Society should go through a form of election ?

We suspect the replies will be “ varied and interesting.”

Feageant Roses.

Peehaps there may be, as Mr. Williamson asserts, page 73, “ un¬
questionably a strong and growing aversion to inodorous Roses,” but if
so, I do not think it influences to any extent the exhibiting Rose-grower.
For thirty-five years I have been a grower of Roses, but amongst the
hundred that I may cut every few days, how rarely do I do more than
hold my pets in different positions and fill my eyes with their beauty.
When I do feast the prominent feature of the face with its perfume it is
generally some Tea or bloom of La France that, watered by the dews
and showers, has refused to further unfold its charms. To break off
at the insertion of the petals the whole unexpanded bud, and
tearing it in two from the base, is indeed a surfeit of fragrance, which,
as far as my experience goes, no beautifully expanding bloom ever
possesses.

Many years ago one of the Rose elections I conducted was on the
point of fragrance. I recollect that, in my innocence, I felt certain
that the old Cabbage must head the poll, but very few of the voters
appeared to be cognisant of its existence, or, if they were, disliked its
perfume. There is something in antipathies even as regards scent,
and the old Latin proverb, tot homines, surely applies ; and I recollect
one reply stated that the perfume f?) of Duke of Edinburgh was to him
perfectly disagreeable 1 As a rule, as far as my nasal organ guides me,
and being decidedly prominent I follow its guidance, the dark H.P. s
are the most fragrant, and amongst these Pierre Netting is to myself the
most agreeable aroma. La France and Augustine Guinoisseau, both
classed as H.P.’s, have undoubtedly a Tea taint. What a description 1
as if there could be a taint of Tea ? But in some of the Teas the
astringent tinting is too powerful for some persons to allow the fragrance
to be altogether an agreeable perfume.

At that perfume election I recollect that Mr. Curtis’s remarks,
which were printed in full in the Journal, were most interesting, and
showed an amount of discrimination in fragrance which would tax
most of us to emulate. In conclusion I would ask. Why need our
interchanges of thought on Rose matters be as thorny as some of our
favourites ? and if some of us prefer to write under a noin a e plume
where is the harm ? Many of these are as well known as though th^y
signed their names in full. Who does not know “ D., Beal, “ E. M.,
“A. C.,” and in bygone days “ Wiltshire Rector ” and “Herefordshire
Incumbent?” Are all these, including your humble correspondent, to
be ruthlessly anathematised because we prefer to write and perhaps
offer advice under a noin dc plume ? Why should our non-exhibiting
friends sneer at the N.R.S. ? That Society has done much for Roses,

98

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 3, 1893.

and although the exhibiting division may have been in at the birth I
do not think they despise or look down on the lovers of garden Roses,
With many of us it is by no means a disregard for their beauty ; it is
indeed the impossibility of doing both from want of room. That, at
least, is my case ; otherwise I should delight in having my old favourites
“ looking in at the window,” rambling in their own sweet luxuriance
and graceful charms. — Y. B. A. Z.

Roses and Rosaeians.

In reply to the latest contribution to your columns of “ A Jubilee Rose
Grower ” (page 73), allow me to say that, so far as I can remember, I
have never allowed my judgment, when writing on horticulture or any
other subject, to be biassed by the influence of personal friendship ; nor
in my articles have I consciously over-estimated any personal friend. It
is gratifying to believe that the generous hope of “ W. R. Raillem ” may
be realised, and as amusement is often beneficial I trust my contribu¬
tions to the “ Rose column ” will not be without wholesome effect on
the minds of the more serious section of correspondents. — David R.
Williamson.

[Mr. Williamson is not a literary dry-as-dust, and we should be sorry
for him to become one. Writers who can combine pleasure with
instruction are public benefactors.]

I HAD not noticed “Audi Alteram Partem’s ” letter, page 51, in
the Journal in more than a very casual way. With “ W. R. Raillem”
I have frequently been amused at the way “ Rose-growers of taste ” (as
we must accept “ A. A. P.’s ” description of himself and Mr. Williamson
as gospel) write on Roses. Mr. Mawley and “ W. R. Raillem ” have
let down these gentlemen fairly easy, the former giving the practical
part of the story about the catalogue, and the latter vivisecting the
“ Rose-growers of taste ” in a way that I trust they will thoroughly
enjoy and appreciate.

I shall look forward while on my holidays in the next few
weeks to enjoying further letters in the Journal replete with “ fresh
observations ” on horticulture from these gentlemen who are “ true
lovers of plants and flowers,” and by the sad sea waves I may reflect on
the year we rosarians, who are unfortunately exhibitors, have wasted in
following a “ will o’ the wisp,” or even, to give it a worse name, a
“ chimera ” which can never help us to become “ keenly alive to what
is beautiful in nature.” — Charles J. Geahame, Croydon.

Judging.

I THINK Mr. Grahame (page 72) is a little hypercritical in objecting
to the words “ more variety,” as applied to a stand of Roses. I think
we should all understand it as alluding to colour, and that it is quite a
legitimate expression. One man may show a stand of twenty-four, or
thirty-six blooms for the matter of that, all of red H.P.’s, while another
with a good sprinkling of Teas, especially yellow ones, as well as light
H.P.’s, would surely show “more variety,” though not “ more varieties.”

I confess I do not like to hear of a “ weighty ” stand or “ heavy ”
blooms, though I fear I am becoming used to it. It seems rather like
bringing Roses down to the prize goose level, but I do not think it is as
bad as it sounds. It is not mere “ size,” but implies fulness and stout
thick petals as well, for size does not necessarily involve weight.

As to “ freshness,” which is distinct Irom colour, though rather
difllcult to define separately, has not Mr. Grahame rather overlooked the
words of his own quotation from N.R.S. rules, “ Where flowers are of
equal merit judges shall consider arrangement, freshness, &c. ? ” I have
never found a judge who in such a case would refuse to consider
“ arrangement ; ” but, of course, he might say that “ freshness ” had
already received its due meed in points in comparison with the standard,
for they would necessarily be pointed where of equal merit.

In two or three instances where I have been judging this year the
points have been equal, and “ arrangement ” has settled the matter, to
the satisfaction of all concerned. In these cases “ freshness ” would
already have been estimated in the pointing.

Considering the great distances they have to travel, both Messrs.
Dickson and Messrs. Harkness, the former especially, have to be con¬
gratulated on the freshness of the blooms they have staged. I was
surprised to see that the fine stand of herbaceous flowers with which
Messrs. Harkness won at Woodbridge travelled entirely uncovered, yet
lost none of their freshness. In a dusty time I should think this was
impossible. I understood that the point was that railway officials took
more care of the flowers when they could see them. — W. R. Raillem.

Metropolitan Exhibition op the National Rose Society.

When we remember the fierce controversy which fluttered the
rosarian world last autumn it was instructive, not to say amusing, to
see the “ flattened ” condition of the advocates of the later date, for long
before the day arrived it was clear that most of the exhibitors from
early districts were entirely hors de comlat. When I met Mr. R. G.
Baker, the former champion of the Rose world, who it is well known
hails from Exeter, and asked him if he had any Roses, “ No,” was his
reply, “mine were over weeks ago ;” and, with very few exceptions, the
same may be said of most southern growers. True the season has been an
extraordinary one, and none of us may ever see its like again, but it is
just these popibilities in our uncertain climate which should incline us
to a date which a long series of years has on the whole proved to be
appropriate.

It is always more pleasant to record success than failure, but still the
truth must be told, and I think it may be safely averred that, with the

exception of the disastrous year of 1879, when the smallness and poverty
of the exhibition from a totally different cause — namely, the excessive
wet — the N.R.S. never held a poorer exhibition. The number of Roses
exhibited, of which, however, I have no accurate account, appears to
have been some 2000 less than those exhibited last year, and in conse¬
quence the competition was not near so keen, and in some classes even
there were not enough stands for the prizes offered. This falling off
would be naturally more conspicuous amongst amateurs than nursery¬
men, who, from the large quantity that they grow and their different
localities, have a better chance of making up a good stand, and hence,
with the exception of some stand amongst the Tea Roses, the standard
of excellence was considerably lowered. As was anticipated, the cooler
climate of Yorkshire and the copious rains that they have had there
helped forward Messrs. Harkness & Sons of Bedale, who carried off with
flying colours the much-coveted challenge trophy. There were in
their stand of seventy-two some grand blooms. The Horace Vernet,
which gained the silver medal, was a grand flower, of fine build, great
substance, and brilliant colour. Almost as good, if not quite so, was a
beautiful bloom of Dickson’s Earl Dufferin ; in addition to these there
were some splendid flowers of Comte de Raimbaud, Victor Hugo,
Fisher Holmes, and other high coloured flowers, which are always well
shown by the Yorkshire firm. The other prizes of these principal
classes were carried off by the East Anglian growers, in whose stands
some fine flowers were shown. Mr. B. R. Cant had in his stand, beside
some excellent H.P.’s, some remarkably fine Teas, amongst which were
a grand bloom of The Bride, which obtained the N.R.S. silver medal
for the best Tea among the nurserymen’s class ; in fact, the success of
this part of England, and the discomfiture of the southern and
western growers, which was foreshadowed at the Tea and Noisette
exhibition at the Drill Hall, were complete. It was somewhat remark¬
able that in a season of such brilliant sunshine the dark coloured
hybrids should so many of them have been shown in such fine form.
My friend, Mr. Biron, and myself have both encouraged Mr. Mount of
Canterbury in his ambitious projects of Rose growing, and I think it is
somewhat remarkable that in so forward a season as the present, and
from so early a locality as Canterbury, he should have captured so many
prizes, and even in some instances have beaten such giants as the
Cants of Colchester. Some of these days, when he wins the trophy to
which he aspires, he must take out a coat of arms with two parsons
as the supporters, and an anvil and hammer for his crest ; the motto
must be left for the present.

Those who recollect the long line of boxes of Teas and Noisettes
which overflowed in all directions in 1892 will be ready to confess the
immense falling off in numbers in the present Exhibition, and the
success which at the Drill Hall attended the East Anglian growers
foreshadowed a still greater triumph at the metropolitan Show. “ We
mean,” it was said to me some time ago, “ to have the Tea Trophy in East
Anglia this year,” and so it has happened, for it was carried off in
triumph by the Rev. A. Foster-Melliar, whose winning stand will not be
easily forgotten. The magnificent flower of Madame Cusin, which won
the N.R.S. ’s medal for the best Tea in the amateur division, was itself
worth going a long distance to see, and was unquestionably the finest
bloom in that variety ever exhibited. There were other fine flowers in
the stand, one of them a grand bloom of Marie Van Houtte was an
instance of what can be done with Tea Roses. It was cut on the
Monday previous, had been placed in a nearly airtight and perfectly
dark cellar for three days not tied up, and for two more in a cellar with
a little light and air, and was almost entirely unchanged when brought
out on Friday evening ; in fact this has been a year in which this
variety has been remarkably fine. The same may be said of Ethel
Brownlow, whose brilliancy of colour and stoutness of petal has been
conspicuous, displaying merits which some of its most ardent admirers
never before thought resided in it. A little disappointment has been felt
with regard to Ernest Metz, and this was a season above all others which
was supposed to be favourable to it, and yet there were only two stands
of it exhibited, coming from the two Cants of Colchester, I think this
seals its doom as to its being offered in a separate class, which has now
been tried three seasons and with the same indifferent results. One
flower which has sometimes been disparagingly spoken of, but which
I have always looked upon with favour, Madame Hoste, has come quite
to the front, the box shown by Mr. B. R. Cant being all that could
be desired. Alas 1 the “ fortifications of Beaulieu ” and the “ Paradise
of Teas ” added nothing to their fame. I was sure the former in such
a season would be stormed by enemies that it would be impossible to
resist, and that thrips and red spider would make many a breach in the
ramparts ; but why the latter should have so utterly collapsed I cannot
quite understand.

As was anticipated, the season militated strongly against that which
has of late years formed so attractive a portion of the Exhibition —
namely, the garden Roses. Hardly one of the single species was in
evidence, and it was only through breaking the rules laid down by the
N.R.S., introducing Teas and even hybrids, that the stands could be
filled. It was, of course, a disappointment, especially to those who, like
Lord Penzance, have encouraged progress in this direction, but it was
one of those things for which the season had prepared us. By next year
Messrs, Keynes, Williams & Co. will have distributed many of Lord
Penzance’s seedlings, and we may expect a keener competition. New
Roses were scarce. Of those of the last two years the only one that has
obtained any position is Gustave Piganeau ; it is a Paul Neyron style of
flower, the colour crimson, and at present it seems to be much in favour.
It is not in its style one that commends itself much to me, but I think

Auffust 3, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

99

that it is somewhat early to complain of its growth. It may be as some
say of poor habit, but like most new Roses that are likely to be popular,
it has been so hard worked that every bit of constitution must have been
taken out of it. Another French Rose of a very different character,
Gustave Regis, is likely to be a favourite for buttonhole purposes. It
appears to be a Hybrid Tea, has a long pointed bud, bright yellow in
•colour, but with very few petals, so that really it might almost when
expanded be considered a single Rose. It is, however, among our home
growers that we must apparently now look for sterling novelties, and
especially to the Newtownards firm, Alexander Dickson & Sons. They
exhibited three seedlings, and to two of them was the gold medal of the
H.R.S. awarded, an honour which no firm has ever obtained before.
One of these, Mrs. Sharman Crawford, is a beautiful bright pink Rose,
of fine form and build, reminding one a little of Mrs. John Laing, but
quite distinct from that flower, but appears also to have a vigorous
constitution. The other was a large full white Rose, suggesting Lady
Mary Fitzwilliam. There is an immense quantity of stuff in it, and if
it opens well will be a valuable addition to our white Roses. Another
gold medal of the N.R.S. was awarded to Mr. Turner’s new climbing
Japanese Rose, Crimson Rambler. It had already obtained a similar
honour at Paris, and has been seen so well and so often that there is
very little doubt that everyone who possesses a garden will be anxious
to obtain it, and by thus giving the N.R.S.’s highest award to a purely
garden Rose the Society has shown its sympathy with the current taste,
and that it is by no means bound to bestow all its favours on the
exhibition varieties.

Such, then, is a rapid view of some of the more salient points of the
show, which, although disappointing in many respects, was the means
of bringing together a considerable number of fine blooms, showing that
even the most adverse seasons cannot utterly quench the ardour of the
Tosarians. — D., Deal,

BACTERIAL DISEASE IN TOMATOES.

Apparently Mr. Iggulden (page 79) thinks me inconsistent in my
remarks on the use of animal manure for Tomatoes, but if he will turn
again to my note on page 49 he will fail to find that I said its use bad
been followed by the best results. Had I found it so it would indeed
be strange for me to advocate the use of chemical manures in preference
to animal.

If I could bring myself to believe that the absence of bacterial
disease is attributable to the use of animal manure it would rise greatly
in my favour. But having lost one or more plants in each of four
houses, some fed with animal others with chemical manures, it is very
apparent that the absence or otherwise of the disease is not due to the
manure used. My principal objection to animal manure is that it
renders the plants more liable to the attacks of cladosporium and allied
fungoid diseases, especially in badly ventilated houses, as some of mine
are.— C. Lock, Bristol. _

As Mr. W. Iggulden expresses his intention of convincing others
that I have mistaken “ effect for cause,” when he has “ thoroughly
convinced ” himself, perhaps he will, in the meantime, send a specimen
of the disease in Cucumbers which he considers to be identical with that
in Tomatoes submitted by Mr. Lock to the Editor, so that I may have
an opportunity of satisfying myself of their being synonymous or other¬
wise. This is imperative prior to a display of “ cross swords ” for the
understanding of what it is all about. Mr. Iggulden, however, indulges
in philippic in his preliminary canter, which is not calculated to
impress an opponent favourably, and seeking to discredit a prospective
antagonist is not usually a proof of prowess. Something more than
appearance ” will, of course, be expected from Mr. Iggulden, for
unless he gives evidence of his acquaintance with and knowledge of
bacterial diseases I must decline to step into the arena for the special
delectation of preconceptionists. But I am quite ready to enter the
lists with him or anyone undertaking to prove that Mr. Lock’s specimen
of Tomatoes were not attacked by and destroyed through bacteria . Of
these I have representations as shown by the microscope, which exhibit
things as they are, and it is safer to be guided by facts than to strive to
erect castles on “ appearance.”

This shall be the test. Mr. Iggulden to send to me (through the
Editor) specimens of Cucumbers, Melons, or Vegetable Marrows
collapsing from the disease of which he is “ lEar from being a stranger,”
and I will subject them to microscopical examination and submit the
results, both of Mr. Lock’s Tomatoes and Mr. Iggulden’s Cucumbers, to
the readers of the Journal of Horticulture. This will give Mr. Iggulden
a chance to display his abilities as a scientist, for in these days some¬
thing more is expected than mere guesses at diseases and empirical
cures. — G. Abbey,

NOTES IN SEASON.

Anomatheca cruenta.

This charming Cape bulbous plant is exceedingly useful for
flowering at the present time. It is of comparatively easy cultivation,
requiring similar treatment to the Ixias, to which it is closely allied.
The plants are of a very dwarf nature, attaining only from 6 to
12 inches in height. The flowers, which are produced in great pro¬
fusion, are of a bright scarlet colour blotched with crimson, and are
produced continuously over a lengthened period, thereby making them
indispensable plants where a display of flowers has to be kept up. The

main flower stem is furnished with numerous flowering br..nchlets, and
is terminated with a spike of from nine to eleven blooms.

The plants must not be allowed to suffer through lack of moisture at
the roots. After the flowering season is over, and when the foliage
commences turning yellow, the supply of water may be gradually
curtailed, but it should never be entirely withheld. The bulbs ought to
be shaken out and repotted about the third week in February, placing
from nine to eleven bulbs in a 6-inch pot. Good fibry loam and leaf
soil, with a little sharp sand will form a suitable compost for them.

Globe Amaranth.

Gomphrena globosa or the Globe Amaranth is a most beautiful
annual flower, and is exceedingly useful for the summer decoration of
the greenhouse and conservatory. It is of a neat and erect branching
habit, attaining a height of from IJ to 2 feet, each shoot being
terminated with a compact round head of rich purple flowers. Seeds
should be sown in March or April in well-drained pans filled with sandy
soil, and placed in gentle heat. When the seedlings appear assign
them a light position, and immediately the plants are large enough to
handle place them singly in small 60-sized pots. Keep the plants well
down in the pots, so that the cotyledon or seed leaves rest on the soil.
They should then be grown in a temperature of from 60° by night and
70° by day, with a rise of from 5° to 10° by sun heat.

For ordinary decorative purposes 7-inch or 8-inch pots will be
sufficiently large provided liquid farmyard manure or one of the
numerous chemical mixtures be applied two or three times a week after
the pots are well filled with roots. After the flower heads are fully
developed the plants may be removed to the greenhouse or conservatory,
where they will keep up a display of flower for a very considerable
length of time. Like the old Everlasting Flower, Helichrysum bracteatum,
the blooms require cutting just before they are fully expanded, as they
then last much longer in perfection. — Geo. Parrant.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

July 25th.

Scientific Committee. — Present : Dr. H. Mliller (in the chair) ;
Dr. Russell, Dr. Scott, Rev. W. Wilks, Dr. Bonavia, Rev. G. Henslow
(Hon. Sec.), and Mr. W, Sykes (visitor).

Dianthus, sp., ^'c, — Dr. Miiller showed a specimen of a Pink
from Val d’Annivieres, in the Rhone Valley. It was referred to
Mr. F. N. Williams for identification, and proved to be Dianthus
prolifer, L. He also exhibited an “ E lelweiss,” from Mount Cook, New
Zealand. Though the inflorescence bore much resemblance to the
European form, the foliage was quite distinct, the leaves being obovate,
and one-quarter of an inch in length. It was referred to Kew for
identification. He also exhibited a Peach, apparently attacked by
fungi. It was also referred to Kew for investigation.

Fir-leaved Clover. — Dr. Bonavia showed a specimen of this tolerably
well-known form from garden culture.

Preserving Fresh Ripe Fruit. — Mr. W. Sykes of Woodleigh, East
Dulwich, described some methods for preserving fruit in tins and
otherwise, the air being exhausted from the tins. The following is the
description of Tomatoes : — ” The fruit was quite ripe and perfect ; after
seven days they had not altered, and kept two or three days after being
exposed to the atmosphere. After fourteen days the fruit showed signs
of ‘ sweating.’ They kept the same time exposed and ate all right.
After twenty-one days there was considerable sweating, after thirty
days more so, after thirty-seven days, still more, the juice draining out
badly. The fruit throughout never lost its bright brilliant colour.” A
discussion arose as to the advisability of adopting the plan of exhausting
the tins of air. Both Dr. Miiller and Dr. Russell were of the opinion
that this method was unadvisable, inasmuch as the vacuum can never
be perfect, and it tended to expand the cells, and so by rupturing the
tissues, “ sweating ” would increase. Another method described was to
bury the fruit like Potatoes or Mangold : — “Apples buried straight from
the trees in heaps like Potatoes, surrounded by straw and covered with
earth a few inches thick, keep well into the following year. Nonpareil,
a very astringent, bright coloured and bad keeper, loses neither colour
nor flavour after being buried. Similarly Peas in jars covered over with
a bladder and buried, were quite ‘fresh’ at Christmas. In these and
similar cases it appears to be the carbonic acid evolved by respiration of
the fruit which acts as a preservative by driving away the air from the
enclosed space. This tends to destroy, or at least hinder, the fermentive
or putrefactive action of bacteria. Mr. Sykes hopes to communicate
further results from experiments with this year’s fruit.

Pelargonium ignescens, $ sterile. — Mr. Henslow exhibited a
specimen of this plant found in a cottage garden at Zeals, Devon. On
referring to Sweet’s “ Geraniacese,” it appears to have been raised from
the seed of P. fulgidum by Sir R. C. Hoare. Another seedling of the
same species was P. scintillans. Though called “hybrids” the parentage
is unknown. The word “sterile” refers to the anthers being devoid of
pollen. P. ignescens (proper), as well as the above, are all figured by
Sweet, oj). cit., viz., P. ignescens, vol. i.. No. 2 ; P. ign. 0 sterile, i., 55 ;
P. scint., i., 28 ; and P. fulgidum, i., 69. The date given is 1821.

Shaky" Ash wood. — Messrs. Holland & Holland of 0.xford Street
forwarded a remarkable specimen of the peculiarity known as “ shaky
timber ” among carpenters. On splitting the wood a central portion
separates from the surrounding layers. It is probably due to some
seasonal influence when the cambium formed an imperfect and easily
separable layer.

100

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 3, 1893.

Events of the Week. — The ensuing week will be rather a busy
one amongst horticulturists. To-morrow (Friday) there will be a
sale of Orchids and animals at Messrs. Protheroe and Morris’
Auction Rooms in Cheapside, E.C. On Saturday Shows will be
held at Croydon and Southampton, the latter continuing on Monday,
August 7th. The Exhibition of the Beddington and Wallington
Horticultural Society will also be held on the 7th inst. As announced
in another paragraph the Committees of the Royal Horticultural Society
will meet at the Drill Hall, James Street, S.W., on Tuesday, August 8th.
On the 9th and 10th inst. a special Show of flowering and foliage plants
will be held at the Gardening and Forestry Exhibition, Earl’s Court, a
class being also provided for six dishes of hardy fruit.

- The Weather in London. — The past week has been

characterised by changeable weather in the metropolis. Sunday was
showery, rain falling heavily at intervals. Similar weather prevailed
on Monday, Tuesday was fine and warmer, but much rain fell during
the night. Wednesday opened bright, and at the time of going to
press it is fine.

- Royal Horticultural Society. — The next meeting of the

Royal Horticultural Society will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 8th, in the
Drill Hall, Westminster. Mr. J. J. Baker, F.R.S., of the Royal
Herbarium, Kew, has promised to deliver a lecture on “ Cannas ” at
3 o’clock, and the Council will feel obliged to exhibitors who will make
a special feature of these plants on that day. There will not be another
meeting in the Drill Hall until September 12th owing to the four-
days show in the Agricultural Hall, Islington, from August 29th to
September Ist.

- Death of Mr. W. Thomson, jun. — With great regret we record

the death of Mr. William Thomson, son of Mr. W. Thomson of Cloven¬
fords, whieh took place on July 30th, from pleurisy. Mr. Thomson was
in his forty-fourth year, and his untimely decease will be regretted by
numerous Scotch and English horticulturists.

- National Amateur Gardeners’ Association. — The

members of this Association held their monthly meeting at the Memorial
Hall, Farringdon Street, E.C., on Tuesday, August 1st, Mr. T. W.
Sanders presiding. There was a large attendance, and some excellent
exhibits were staged. Silver medals were awarded to Messrs. H. A.
Needs, G. Bell, A. G. Rowberry, G. Stevens, and Cook. Mr. J. Bateman
of Highgate read an interesting paper on “ Roses for Exhibition,”
dealing with the subject in a practical manner. A vote of thanks to
Mr. Bateman for his essay concluded the proceedings.

- Shropshire Horticultural Society. — We are requested

to correct the statement made on page 75, that the Carnation prizes to
be offered at the forthcoming Shrewsbury Show are withdrawn ; all
classes stand as in the schedule. The special new class is only to provide
for a contingency. Should any Carnation collections come, and we
hear some will be staged, these prizes will be awarded just as if no special
class has been offered.

- A Good Action. — At the Committee luncheon of the Reigate

Show last week a letter was read by Mr. Wells from a gentleman stating
the very deplorable condition through ill-health of a local gardener
whose name was given, and asking for pecuniary assistance. A list was
handed round the table, and some 35g. collected by Mr. Steer. The
case seems to be a very distressing one, as the poor man is in consump¬
tion, and there is a large family to be maintained.

- Wakefield Paxton Society. — At the usual weekly meeting

of the members of the above Society on Saturday, 23rd ult., the subject
for discussion was “ Carnations and Picotees.” A large table was filled
with beautiful specimens, some being the old-fashioned varieties and
others were examples of the florist flowers. There were also on the
table Stephanotis and Allamanda flowers. The discussion was opened
by Mr. Haddock of Lofthouse, who is an extensive and successful
grower of Carnations and Picotees. Mr. Haddock strongly recommended
his friends to grow Carnations and Picotees. He said they were good
town flowers, as they will withstand the effects of smoke, and by a little
arrangement it was possible to have plants in bloom all the year round.

- The Dutch Horticultural Society. — We are informed

that members of this Society have intimated their intention to visit
Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons’ establishments on Saturday, the 12th inst.,
together with a few other friends.

- Gardening Appointment. — Mr. C. Page, for some years

gardener to H. P. Leschalles, Esq., Highams, Ascot, has been appointed
to succeed Mr. Lee as gardener to J. B. Fortescue, Esq., Boconnoc,
Lostwithiel, Cornwall.

- Bulbs for the Royal Parks. — We understand that Messrs.

W. Cutbush & Son, Highgate, have been favoured with an order for
bulbs for the Royal Parks, including St. James’s, St. Margaret Square,
Regent’s Park, and Hampton Court Gardens.

- Grapes at Trentham. — Through a clerical error on the

exhibition card the first prize for four bunches of Grapes was credited
to Mr. Crawford in our report on page 82 last week. The winner was
Mr. J. J. Craven, The Gardens, Allerton Priory, Liverpool.

- Wasp Nests. — Mr. Edward Gristwood, The Gardens, Hearts

Hill, Loughton, Essex, informs us that himself and Mr. W. Dickens, of
Dibden Hall Gardens, have destroyed sixty-three wasp nests by pouring
petroleum into them, applying a light and burning them out,

- Border Maid Viola.— Mr. John Forbes, Hawick, sends us

some blooms of a splendid Viola to be named “Border Maid.” It is to
be a close compact grower and a free fiowerer. The blooms are large and
beautiful, of a rich orange colour, with a distinct purplish blue margin.

- Mushrooms in the North. — Mushrooms have been very

plentiful in Westmoreland, large quantities being sent away for sale to
large provincial towns. In the district around Kirkby Lonsdale, says
a writer in a local paper. Mushrooms have been selling at li per lb.

- The Proposed Floral Contest at Chicago. — We under¬
stand that in view of the small amount of encouragement received the
Chicago Committee has deemed it best to abandon the project of an
international contest in the arrangement of flowers at the World’s Fair
in August.

- Early Pears. — “ J. H. W.” observes ; — “ As evincing the

extreme earliness of this season we have been obliged to gather the fruit
from two trees of Jargonelle Pears on July 27th, which in 1891 were not
ready until September 12th. From two horizontal trained trees on a wall
with a west aspect we have gathered IJ cwt. of very fine fruit. All
our bush and pyramid Pear trees are loaded with fruit this season. We
have given bushels of fruit to the pigs, but still there are bushels too
many left.”

- English Horticulturists in America.— An American

exchange to hand says : “Among notable visitors to Boston during the
first week in July was Mr. Nicholson, of Kew Gardens, England, on his
way to Chicago. He visited, as does everybody nowadays, the Arnold
Arboretum, and spent a few hours among the trees and shrubs. Mr. W-
Goldring, brother of the Messrs. Goldring, of Albany, N.T., honoured
Buffalo with a very short visit on Saturday, July 1st. Mr. Goldring has
just returned from India, where he has been laying out grounds for
some of the native princes.”

- Trade in Covent Garden Market. — As a specimen of how

the trade in this market has been developed, we understand, says a
daily contemporary, that last week one firm alone dealt with 64,734
packages, including — Green Gages, 27,583 ; Orleans and other Plums,
15,138 ; Pears, 8,043 ; Peaches and Apricots, 5,002 ; Tomatoes, Salads,
and Cucumbers, 4,077 ; Nuts, 2,098; Cherries, Black and Red Currants,
Apples and Grapes, 645 ; Bananas, Melons and Lemons, 995 ; Potatoes,
Pea? and Onions, 1,153. Ten years ago it was considered a wonderful
business for one single firm to turn over 20,000 packages in a week.

- Stuartia pentagyna. — One of the most beautiful American

shrubs now in flower is Stuartia pentagyna ; its large creamy white
flowers, 3 or 4 inches across, with scalloped margins resembling those of
some Camellias, to which, indeed, the Stuartia is related. Perhaps, says
the “ Garden and Forest,” the slow growth of this plant while it is young
has discouraged growers ; at all events, it is so rarely found in gardens
that it has never received a common English name. When fully
established, however, so that its beauties are developed, this Stuartia is
one of the most pleasing of all hardy shrubs which flower in summer,
and it should be omitted from no carefully selected collection. It
appreciates liberal treatment, and when planted in good loam mixed with
peat and enriched occasionally with a dressing of old and well-pulverised
manure it will always repay such attention.

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- Lady Gardenees.— Mr. J. Riddell, The Gardens, Castle

Howard, York, writes : — “ Among the weekly papers a report has been
going the round that Lady Carlisle contemplated the substitution of
women gardeners for the staff at present employed in the gardens here.
As the Journal of Hortic^dture quoted the statement (page 76), and
having been asked to contradict the , report when occasion for doing
so occurred, there not being a shadow of truth in it, I hope you will be
able to find space for this note in your next issue,”

- The Festival op Flowers. — The sixth National Co-operative

Festival will be held at the Crystal Palace on Saturday, August 19th.
The flower show will probably be as large as ever, notwithstanding the
adverse season. The co-partnership exhibition of goods from workshops
in which the workers share profits and management will be much ex¬
tended, as several new and interesting societies will take part. Mr.
Wm. Broomhall, General Secretary, 49, Bedford Street, Strand, offers to
send information to all interested in the co-operative movement.

- Stapelias. — The collection of Stapelias formed by the late

Mr. Thomas Westcorabe of Worcester has recently been presented to
Kew by his sister. Miss Westcombe, along with numerous notes, descrip¬
tions, and a collection of beautifully executed coloured drawings,
prepared by Miss Westcombe from the plants (of Stapelia and allied
genera) flowered by her brother. Stapelias, remarks the “ Kew Bulletin,”
are exceedingly difficult plants to cultivate, 'and many of the species
can only be kept through an English winter with the utmost care and
attention. Mr. Westcombe’s success as a cultivator of these plants was
quite exceptional. Since his death some of the plants have somewhat
suffered, but most of them will probably recover in their new quarters
at Kew.

- A Fine Carnation. — Mr. Bernard Cowan, The Lodge, Harton

Cemetery, South Shields, sends us a photograph of a plant of Carnation
Souvenir de la Malmaison that bore 105 blooms, open and unopened.
The plant was in a 10-inch pot, and has been grown by Mr. Alex,
Turvis, South View, South Shields, who is an amateur grower, and is
Chairman of the General Purposes Committee of the South Shields and
Northern Counties Chrysanthemum Society. Mr. Turvis takes an active
interest in the Exhibition, and his well-known popularity is of consider¬
able advantage to the Society. He is also a grower of Roses and Chrys¬
anthemums, and when his commercial transactions are over the rest of
the evening is spent attending to the cares and wants of his favourite
flowers.

- Kingston Gardeners’ Association. — At the monthly

meeting of this Society, held on the 26th ult., a short but very useful
paper on “ The Gloxinia ” was read by Mr. Hawkes of Lismaine
Gardens. Daring the discussion which followed questions were asked
as to the insect termed the creeping or jumping thrips, which proved
to be so difficult to deal with, so fond of the Gloxinia, and was impervious
to fumigation. From Messrs. Sutton & Sons came a collection of cut
flowers of their beautiful strain, and Mr. Peed, a local gardener, also
brought some brilliant flowers of the same strain. Mr. Hawkes
showed some very fine Cockscombs, and Mr, T. Cushon exhibited a
good Melon Imperial Green-Flesh, grown in a frame without bottom
heat after Potatoes had been taken out. Mr. A. Dean will give an
address on “ Hardy Border Flowers ” to the members at the meeting on
August 29 th.

- Flora op Mount Kini Balu. — The collection of dried

plants from the above locality in N.E. Borneo, referred to in the “ Kew
Bulletin,” 1892, p. 249, has been worked out by Dr. 0. Stapf, the
Assistant for India at the Herbarium, who read a paper on the subject
before the Linnean Society on the 15th June last, which will pro¬
bably appear in one of the Society’s publications. In addition to the
plants collected by the Drs. Haviland, Dr. Stapf has also taken up a
small collection from the same mountain, made by Sir Hugh Low some
forty years ago, together with a few plants collected more recently by
Mr. F. W. Burbidge. Altogether they number about 400 species, 320 of
which are phanerogams. There are two new genera and upwards of
150 new species, for the greater part shrubs. Melastomaceae and
Rubiacese largely predominate in the lower elevations, and the last
family is somewhat numerously associated with increasing numbers of
Ericaceae, Vacciniaceae, Orchids, and Ferns at higher levels. Noteworthy
among the novelties are eleven very distinct new species of the
Kricaceous genus Diplycosia, and two new species of the Australian
Irideous genus Patersonia. Many other new facts have been brought to
light by the combined collections, and Dr. Stapf ’s paper promises to be
of more than ordinar interest. — (“ Kew Bulletin.”)

- A Novel Contest. — In connection with the Show of the

Beddington, Carshalton, and Wallington Horticultural Society, to be
held in Carshalton Park on the August Bank Holiday, a class instituted
by Mr. A. H. Smee is creating a good deal of interest. It is thus set
forth — “For the best dinner to be produced at a cost not exceeding 2s.
The dinner must consist of meat and at least two distinct kinds of
vegetables, and be sufficient for a man, his wife, and three children.
The value of each article must be clearly stated. First prize, £2 ;
second do., £1 10s.; third do., £1; fourth do., 10s.” We are informed
there are thirty entries. Also in connection with the same Show a
conference on gardening is announced under the presidency of E. J.
Halsey, Esq., Chairman of the Surrey County Council. Superior and
inferior garden produce will be exhibited, and a short address thereon
given by Mr. J. Wright for the instruction of amateurs, cottagers, and
allotment holders.

- Dwarf Convolvuluses. — Amongst the numerous hardy

annuals which were recently blooming so profusely in the seed
grounds of Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading, were three forms of
dwarf Convolvuluses, which were so wonderfully true to character
that 10,000 flowers seemed to be exactly alike. It was quite remarkable
to find how well these annuals were doing in the drought, and still more
how effective and lovely in their respective masses they were. Very
charming indeed is subcaernleus, the flowers of a pleasing sky blue
colour. This is at once a novelty and a beauty. Quite different
because so dark is Crimson Violet, the flowers of a heavy but rich hue,
as its name implies ; and most effective is the brilliant Dark Blue. To
these may be added the White, but the others are delightful. — D.

- Autumn-sown Onions. — This is a good time to make a

sowing of Onions for producing bulbs next May and two following
months to succeed those raised from seed sown during last spring.
If the ground is in fairly good condition as regards fertility it need
only be dug, trodden, surface-dressed with soot, and raked level ; then
draw drills from 12 to 15 inches asunder and about 1 inch deep, running
north and south, for the reception of the seed. Early White Naples and
White Elephant are good varieties to sow for standing the winter. Sow
the seed sufficiently thick, the drills to admit of some of the young
plants being drawn for salading, where used for that purpose, and to
make good any blanks that might occur in the ranks through any cause
during the next five or six months. Close the soil over the seed in
the drills with the feet, tread, and afterwards rake level in the same
direction as the drills. Transplantings can be made from the thin¬
nings in the spring if it should be deemed necessary to extend the
crop, allowing a space of from 6 to 12 inches between the plants in
the rows, the ground being prepared in the manner advised for seed. —
H. W. Ward.

- The West African Palm Oil Trade. — In his report to

the Colonial Office on the botany of Sierra Leone, Mr. Scott Elliot says
that the export of Palm oil and kernels forms by far the largest part of
the West African export trade. In 1890 the value of the Palm oil
exported from Sierra Leone was £13,599 and of the Palm kernels
£107,827. The tree is more abundant further down the West African
coast, and appears to prefer alluvial, often marshy, ground near the sea.
It p>articularly seems to thrive on the rich soil of the Mangrove accumu¬
lations. There are large numbers of Palm trees in the Mahela district,
where a factory once existed, and there are also a considerable number
up the Searcies River and in the lower part of the Limba district. It
grows also on low sandstone or gneissose hills, but probably does not
produce so much in such places as on the low-lying, rich alluvials. The
Palm is propagated from the offshoots that appear at its base, and these
are said to begin in the second or fifth year, and are in full bearing
about the tenth to fifteenth year. They continue produc’ing for sixty
years. A single tree yields from 1 to 3 gallons of Palm oil, or, according
to Semler, 16 litres annually, and this amount of oil will give from one-
sixth to half a hundredweight of kernels. This would be a profit of
from 2s. to 6s. a tree per annum, as about 300 gallons of Palm oil give a
ton of oil and about 2^ tons of kernels. Hence plantations of these
trees should be profitable in time. It is, however, exceedingly difficult
to get any trustworthy information, and the above, Mr. Elliot says, must
be regarded as very approximate. The Palms require no care, and are
not, apparently, attacked by any injurious insects. The preparation is
of a very rough and makeshift character ; the fruits are thrown into a
tank and left till decomposition begins. They are then boiled and
afterwards pounded in a mortar. Probably 25 per cent, of the oil is lost
in preparation.

102

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[ Angtist 3, 1893.

- Hippeastrum peocerum. — This is the blue Amaryllis of

horticulturists, and the Amaryllis Rayneri of " Botanical Magazine,”
t. 5883. It was introduced by M. Binot from South Brazil about 1863,
says the “Kew Bulletin,” but it has remained rare in cultivation,
probably on account of the difficulty experienced in getting it to flower.
Two plants of it have been flowering in the Sueculent house (No. 5) at
Kew. The species is quite distinct from the rest of the genus, the
bulb having a neck 18 inches long and distichous falcate ensiform
leaves, firm in texture, with a white cartilaginous edge. The flowers
are borne in an umbel, and they are as large as the Belladonna Lily.
The colour is bluish-lilac with numerous spots of a darker shade of
purple.

- WiDCOMBE Horticultural Club. — Some members of this

Society had, on July 24th, the privilege of seeing the Begonias grown
by the Rector of Newton St. Loe. The visit came as a surprise, for it was
not included in the printed programme of the Club’s proceedings, but
was arranged at the invitation of the Rev. E. Lascelles by the energetic
lion. Secretary of the Club, who is always seeking opportunities of
increasing its usefulness and of affording instruction and enjoyment to
the members, about forty of whom with a few friends left Widcombe
shortly after six o’clock in three well-horsed conveyances for Newton.
Mr. Lascelles cordially welcomed the party, and after showing the visitors
all over his beautiful garden, promised to give the members a lecture
upon his favourite flower — the Begonia.

- Hanbury Medallion. — According to the July number of

the “ Kew Bulletin,” the museum of the Royal Gardens has lately
))ecome possessed of a medallion portrait of the late Daniel Hanbury,
F.R.S., F.L.S. This medallion is the original model in plaster by the
late Thomas Woolner, R.A., and was copied in marble for Mr. Thomas
Hanbury, F.L.S. It is a faithful likeness of the great pharmacologist.
The ornamentation on the flat surface surrounding the portrait repre¬
sents the plants to which Daniel Hanbury gave special attention —
namely, Liquidambar orientale. Mill, which he proved in 1857 to be
the source of Liquid Storax, and Ipomoea simulans, a species of his
own, and described by him in a paper read before the Linnean
Society in 1869 as the source of Tampico Jalap. Kew is indebted to
Mrs. Woolner for the gift of this medallion, whieh finds a fitting home
in a museum greatly enriched by numerous contributions of vegetable
drugs made by Hanbury himself during his lifetime.

- Fruit Culture in Russia. — We are informed that “ The

Russian Society of Fruit Culture is, with the sanction of the Czar,
organising an international Exhibition to be held at St. Petersburg in
the autumn of 1894, with the object of showing the present condition
in Russia of the cultivation of fruit, medicinal plants and vegetables,
and of the manufacture of their products.” It is also stated that “ A
congress of pomologists will be convened simultaneously with the Exhi¬
bition, and all persons interested in the progress of horticulture and
pomology, both in Russia and other countries, are invited to take part in
the Exhibition, which will comprise the following sections : Fresh fruit
fresh vegetables ; dried fruit and vegetables, preserved or treated by
other processes ; wine, cider, perry, and other fruit beverages ; Hops
and medical herbs, seeds, fruit trees and bushes, horticultural imple¬
ments and appliances and technicality of production, together with
literary, scientific, and educational accessories, collections and
plans.” It is expected that further details will be forthcoming in
due course.

- Origin op the Peach. — Nothing is now more universally

accepted than the fact that the Peach is an improved variety of the
Almond. The Almond has a thin shell around the stone, which splits
open and exposes the stone when mature. This outer skin has simply
become fleshy in the Peach, so that is all that gives it its specific
character. It seems now clear from investigation in the history of
ancient Babylon that in their gardens, now nearly 4000 years ago, the
Peach was cultivated then as it is now. It must have been many years
before this that the Peach was improved from the Almond, and this fact
goes to show the great antiquity of the fruit. Possibly gardening in
some respects, at least so far as it relates to many of our cultivated
fruits, was as far advanced six, or perhaps eight or 10,000 years back as
it is to-day. Phoenec'ans, many thousands of years ago, as is proved by
the records, had in their gardens Almonds, Apricots, Bananas, Citrons,
Figs, Grapes, Olives, Peaches, Pomegranates, and even Sugar-cane was
in extensive cultivation. Certainly this shows how very far advanced
these nations were in garden culture these many years ago. — (“ Meehans’
Monthly.”)

- Platycodons. — Not very appreciable, if indeed is there any

distinction, between the Platycodons and Campanula grandiflora and its
varieties. Possibly the distinetion is found only in name, and if there
be none, then the diverse appellations are misleading. At Messrs. Barr
and Son’s Long Ditton Nursery, various Platycodons are in abundant
bloom, and at this season most deservedly rank amongst the best of
hardy garden flowers. The growth is in most cases about 2 feet in
height, the stems producing numerous side flowers on long stems,
which are admirable for cutting. Grandiflora, single blue, and
plenum, double and darker ; album and striatum, also Mariesi, are-
capital varieties. — A. D.

- Early Apples. — I specially noted the best six varieties in

the respeetive dessert and kitchen sections of Messrs. G. Bunyard & Co.’s
very fine collection shown at the Drill Hall on the 25th ult. The Apples
for the time of year were wonderfully fine, and all from the open air.
Mr. Woodward of Barham Court, however, tells me that Apples are
swelling wonderfully fast since the rains, and that there should be some
grand fruit at the Agricultural Hall Show. I found of dessert varieties-
Gladstone, Red Juneating, Red Astrachan, Beauty of Bath, Lady
Sudeley, and Red Quarrenden to be the best, ripening in about the
order placed, whilst of kitchen sorts Lord Grosvenor, Lord Suffield,
Grenadier, Stirling Castle, Peter the Great, and Potts’ Seedling were
the best. I have seen elsewhere Warner’s King and Emperor Alexander
very fine too. On the whole, we shall probably find it needful to have
many of our finest Apples gathered fully a month earlier than usual, or
they may fall from the trees. The netting of the finest samples will
become imperative in many cases. — A. D.

- Death op a Lady Botanist. — The death is announced, on

Thursday last, of Miss Anne Pratt, who was born at Strood, near
Rochester, in 1806. This distinguished botanist published her first
book when just twenty years of age, entitled “ Flowers and Their
Associations,” a work characterised by elegance of thought and refine¬
ment of diction, qualities that marked all her numerous subsequent
writings. A devoted student of nature, accurate and painstaking in
all her researches, she was also gifted as an artist. She made exquisite
sketches of plants to illustrate her subjects. She was the author of
“Pratt’s Catechism of Botany,” “The Field, the Garden, and the
Woodland,” “ Wild Flowers,” “ The Dawnings of Genius,” “ Poisonous
Plants,” “ Common Things of the Seashore,” and other works. Her
02,us magnum was “ Flowering Plants and Ferns of Great Britain,”'
which was illustrated with coloured block-printed plates, and forms an
exhaustive history of all British species, which ever since its appear¬
and has taken rank with standard botanical works. The copyright
expiring in 1879, it was bought by the publishers, Frederick Warne
and Co., the senior partner of that firm having from the first entertained
a great partiality for the work, and in 1880, at the age of seven ty-three,
the author, with her eharaeteristic vivacity, revised it, and the work
was reproduced in a cheaper form. Miss Pratt married in 1867 Mr.
John Pearless, of East Grinstead, who survives her.

- History op Whinham’s Industry Gooseberry. — The

originator of the Gooseberry, which has now become an almost
universal favourite with the market gardening fraternity, was, says
the “ Newcastle Chronicle,” Mr. Robert Whinham of Morpeth, himself
a market gardener. Whinham was born early in this century, and up
to within a few years of his death, which occurred in 1858, he
occupied as tenant the Allery Banks Gardens, belonging to the Earl
of Carlisle, at Morpeth. There it was that he first began cultivating,
and propagating the Gooseberry. All the time the labour and the
thought he expended in perfecting hisi venture profited him but little
in the shape of pecuniary reward. He died a poor man. His grave in
Morpeth churchyard is practically unknown, and no memorial of him
exists other than which he established himself by giving his own name
to the fruic he originated. Attracted as we always have teen by fruit
culture, it was not without feelings of interest that we paid a visit the
other day to the very garden which witnessed the early struggles of
Robert Whinham. Situated on the rising ground to the south-east of
Morpeth, and in close proximity to the railway, we found the scene of
his labours. The summer evening was closing in as, escorted by Mr.
George W. Purdy, the present tenant, we wandered through the garden,
which is almost entirely given over to the cultivation of Gooseberries,
the whole area being sheltered and protected by old Apple trees. Mr.
Purdy’s father immediately succeeded the Whinham family in the
tenancy, and when he took over the garden he found there bushes of the
identical berry which must have been some of the very first cultivated
by Whinham. These bushes had then reached maturity, and some of

August 3, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

103

them yet remain in very vigorous growth. One of these, which cannot
possibly be less than forty-seven years old, has cropped heavily ever
since 1856, Last year it yielded three and a half stones of berries ; this
year it was still more heavily laden, the estimated weight of the crop
being four stones.

CAMPANULA GRANDIFLORA MARIESI.

At the meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society on July 25th
Messrs. G. Paul & Son, the Old Nurseries, Cheshunt, staged a plant of
Campanula grandiflora Mariesi, and for which the Floral Committee

John Rennet Lawes, LL.D., F.R.S., and Dr. John Henry Gilbert, F.R.S.„
in commemoration of the fifty years agricultural, chemical, and botanical
investigations which those gentlemen have jointly carried out on the
Rothamsted estate, and which hare become famous throughout the
world. The proceedings on Saturday were the result of a movement
initiated by the Prince of Wales, who called a meeting at the rooms of
the Royal Agricultural Society on March 1st last, when His Royal
Highness gave the following brief outline of the work of Sir John Lawes
and Dr. Gilbert : —

“ All those who are interested in the progress of agricultural know¬
ledge, and especially in the application of chemistry to the cultivation
of crops and the feeding of stock, must be aware of the extreme im¬
portance of the valuable series of experiments so long carried on at.

Fig. 16.— campanula grandiflora mariesi.

awarded a first-class certificate. The plant, also known as Platycodon
grandiflorum Mariesi, is not a new one, inasmuch as it was introduced
upwards of a decade ago. It is nevertheless worthy of more extensive
culture, and should be given a place in every garden.

As shown in the illustration (fig. 16), the plant is dwarf in habit,
being not more than 6 inches in height. The flowers are large and
broad, measuring 3 inches or more in diameter, and of a brilliant
purplish blue colour with darker veins. It is a charming plant, and
deserves a better fate than it hitherto has had.

THE ROTHAMSTED JUBILEE.

Ax event, which was described as “ unique in the history of scientific
collaboration, as well as in the history of scientific research,” was
celebrated in the Hertfordshire village of Harpenden on Saturday, when
a huge granite memorial was dedicated and presentations made to Sir

Rothamsted by Sir John Rennet Lawes. These experiments were com¬
menced in the year 1843, so that the current year will witness the
conclusion of no less than half a century’s investigations, which have
been conducted during the lifetime of their founder. During the whole
of this period, moreover. Dr. Gilbert has been associated with Sir John
Lawes in the work of experimental research. The Rothamsted experi¬
ments have from the commencement been entirely disconnected with
any external organisation, and have been maintained at the sole cost of
Sir John Lawes. For the continuance of the investigations after his
death. Sir John has recently made the munificent endowment of
£100,000, besides the famous laboratory and certain areas of land, and
has nominated some of the most distinguished scientists of the day to
administer the trust. In view of all these facts, and the great national
importance of the Rothamsted experiments, it is only fitting that some
public recognition should be made of the invaluable services rendered
to agriculture by Sir John Lawes and hii distinguished colleague, Dr.
Gilbert.”

As the result of the meeting an Executive Committee was formed.

104

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ A.ugriist 3, 1893

coDBisting of the Duke of Westminster, K.G-., President of the Koyal
Agricultural Society of England, Chairman ; the Earl of Clarendon,
Lord Lieutenant of Herts ; Viscount Emlyn, Chairman of the Chemical
and Woburn Committees of the Royal Agricultural Society ; Lord
Kelvin, P.R.S. ; Sir John Lubbock, M.P., F.R.S,, Trustee of the Lawes
Agricultural Trust ; Dr. H. E, Armstrong, F.R.S. , President of the
Chemical Society ; Professor Charles Stewart, President of the Linnean
Society ; Sir John Evans, F.R.S., Treasurer of the Royal Society, Honorary
Treasurer ; and Mr. Ernest Clarke, Secretary of the Royal Agricultural
Society, Honorary Secretary. Subscriptions were invited with the result
that a sufBcient sum was obtained to erect a granite memorial weighing over
8 tons immediately opposite the laboratory (which was built by public
subscription and presented to Sir John Lawes in 1854), and which stands
out boldly in view from all points of Harpenden Common ; to have a
three-quarter length portrait of Sir John Lawes painted by Herkomer ; and
to purchase a massive silver salver to present to Dr. Gilbert. The
memorial is a massive boulder of granite placed end-ways on another
square block. On the side facing the common is this inscription : —
‘■To commemorate the completion of fifty years of continuous experi¬
ments in agriculture conducted at Rothamsted by Sir John Rennet
Lawes and John Henry Gilbert, A.D. MDCCCXCIII.” But besides
these presentations, and also addresses from the subscribers, various
learned and agricultural societies, both at home and abroad, took the
opportunity of presenting other addresses, so that the proceedings of
Saturday were international in their character.

There was a large and distinguished company present. Mr. Herbert
Gardner, M.P., President of the Board of Agriculture, presided. On his
right were Sir John Lawes and Dr. Gilbert, and on his left the Duke of
Westminster and the Duke of Devonshire. Among the others present,
in addition to the members of the Executive Committee whose names
are given above, were Earl Cathcart, Lord Amherst of Hackney,
Viscount Grimston, the Hon. A. Holland-Hibbert, M. Johanet and
M. Aubin (representing the Soci^t6 des Agriculteurs de France), Sir
J. D. Hooker, Sir Owen Roberts, Professor Michael Foster, Professor
F. 0. Bower, Professor Kinch, Sir Jacob Wilson, General Cohnsae, Mr.
W. Carruthers, Dr. Fream, Professor Sheldon, Major Craigie, Professor
Church, Mr. Henry F. Moore, Mr. Ludwig Mond, Professor W. Odling,
Dr. W. J. Russell, Mr. Martin J. Sutton, Mr. Charles Whitehead,
Dr. J. A. Voelcker, Mr. A. Warrington, Professor W. A. Tilden, Dr.
Bernard Dyer, Mr. W. H. Perkin, Mr. W. Crookes, and Mr. W. H.
Parkin, all of whom were subscribers also to the testimonial. Apologies
were read for non-attendance from the Prince of Wales, M. E. Tisserand,
Councillor of State, Director of Agriculture for France, and many
others, as well as a telegram of congratulation from the Association of
Experimental Stations in the United States and Canada.

Mr. Herbert Gardner, M.P., who was received with cheers, said
they had met to honour as far as it was in their power, in the name of
agriculture and of the agricultural classes, two distinguished men — Sir
John Lawes and Dr. Gilbert (cheers) — who had rendered invaluable
services to our great national industry. It was felt that, in addition to
mere personal testimony of regard, there should be some outward and
endurable memorial of the admiration which the agricultural world felt
for the valuable work which had illustrated the lives of those two
gentlemen. More durable even than that granite block would be the
complete series of records of the work done at Rothamsted which were
contained in the large series of works which lay on the table before him
(cheers), and he had done something towards making these of more
value by obtaining a grant from the Treasury in order to purchase forty-
four complete sets which he had presented, at the expense of the nation,
to leading public institutions. (Cheers). During the fifty years the
experiments at Rothamsted had been in progress there had been
remarkable changes. Wheat having fluctuated no less than SOs. per
quarter, having been as high as 743., and in May last as low as 24s. 8d.
He thought the development of the steam ocean traffic had done more to
bring down the price of Wheat than either Cobden or Bright, and the
present low range he attributed to England having accumulated an
unusual surplus just after the Russian famine, and in the diminution
which had been going on there might be found some scintilla — slight it
might be — of better times. (Cheers.)

The Duke of Westminster, after offering his personal congratula¬
tions, read the following addresses from the subscribers : —

“To Sir John Bennet Lawes, D.C.L., LL.D., F.R.S., &c. — On behalf
of the Committee of the Rothamsted Jubilee Fund, and of the numerous
subscribers to that Fund in all parts of the world, I offer you the most
hearty congratulations on the completion of half a century’s uninter¬
rupted investigation of agricultural problems of the highest practical
value and interest.

“ These investigations, which originated with you, relate not only to
the growth of cereal and other crops under the most varying conditions,
but also to the economic effect of different foods on the development of
the animals of the farm. They have embraced, moreover, most important
researches concerning the chemical constituents of soils, the rainfall,
drainage waters, and the sources from which plants derive their supply
of nitrogen.

“ During the whole of this period of fifty years you have had the
zealous co-operation of your lifelong friend Dr. Joseph Henry Gilbert,
whose name will ever be associated with yours, and whom jointly with
you we desire on the present occasion to congratulate.

“ For the continuance of the experiments and investigations which
have already extended over so long a period, you have munificently
provided by the establishment of the Lawes Agricultural Trust, so that

our successors will profit even more, if possible, than we of the present
day have done, by your enlightened labours.

“ The memorial which is now erected, will, it is hoped, preserve your
jo'nt names in honoured remembrance for centuries to come, while the
portrait that is presented to you herewith will hand down to future
generations the likeness of one of the most disinterested as well as the
most scientific of our public benefactors. — Albert Edward P.,
July 29th, 1893.”

“To Joseph Henry Gilbert, M.A., Ph.D., LL.D., F.R.S., &c. — In
celebrating the jubilee of the Rothamsted agricultural experiments, it is
impossible to dissociate your name from that of Sir John Lawes, and on
behalf of the subscribers to the Rothamsted Jubilee Fund in all parts of
the world, I offer you the most hearty congratulations on the completion
of your fifty years of continuous labours in the cause of agricultural
science.

“ The nature and importance of those labours are so well known that
it is needless to dilate upon them ; but if the institution of the various
investigations and experiments carried out at Rothamsted has been due
to Sir John Lawes, their ultimate success has been in a great measure
secured by your scientific skill and unremitting industry. Moreover, by
your lectures and writings, you have been a leading exponent in this
and other countries of the theoretical and practical aspects of the
researches that have been undertaken at Rothamsted.

“A collaboration such as yours with Sir John Lawes, already extend¬
ing over a period of upwards of fifty years, is unexampled in the annals
of science. I venture to hope for an extended prolongation of these
joint labours, and trust that the names of Lawes and Gilbert, which for
so many years have been almost inseparable, may survive in happy
conjunction for centuries to come. — Albert Edward P., July 29th,
1893.”

M. Johanet then read an address in French from the Soci6t6 des
Agriculteurs de France, and M. Aubin one from those employed in the
laboratory of the same Society.

The Duke of Devonshire presented addresses from the 11,000
members of the Royal Agricultural Society of England, and offered to
Sir John Lawes and Dr. Gilbert their most hearty and cordial con¬
gratulations on the completion of half a century of investigations at
Rothamsted, which had been of such paramount importance to the
agricultural community, and the continuance of which had been secured
to succeeding generations by the generous benefaction of Sir John
Lawes. At Rothamsted they saw what experimental work ought to be
— work which had had a great effect on all other experimental work in
the country. In the name of the Royal Agricultural Society of England
he had to offer their most sincere and grateful thanks to Sir John
Lawes and Dr. Gilbert for their valuable work, and to express the hope
that they might long be spared to continue their labours, as was well
described in the charter of the Society, “ For the general advancement
of agriculture.” (Cheers.)

Dr. Michael Foster presented an address from the Royal Society of
England ; Dr. Armstrong next presented an address from the Chemical
Society ; Professor Stewart from the Linnean Society ; Professor Kinch
from the Cirencester College ,* and Mr. Ernest Clarke (in the absence of
M. Tisserand, Director of Agriculture in France), on behalf of the
Soci4t6 Nationale d’ Agriculture de France. This address, coming as it
does from what is probably the oldest and most unique agricultural Society
in the world — a Society in which membership is more prized than in any
other — was probably the most gratifying of any presented. It ran as
follows: — “Soci^tfi Nationale d’ Agriculture de France. Hfitel de la
Socifitfi, Rue de Bellechasse, 18, Paris, 19th July, 1893. To Sir John
Bennet Lawes, Bart. Sir and dear colleague, — We, the members of the
board and oflScers of this ancient agricultural Society of France, in our
name, and in the name of our fellow Associates, have the honour, on
this memorable day, to tender to you and to your constant and faithful
companion Dr. Gilbert, the expression of our sincere respect and admira¬
tion for your invaluable contributions to agricultural science. By a
remarkable concurrence of circumstances we observe that in the year
1856 two of the then most prominent agricultural chemists of Europe
were received in our ranks — namely. Dr. Julius Liebig and Sir John
Bennet Lawes, thus finding their opportunity to blend their superior
knowledge with the science and experience of our own Boussingault,
whose methods of investigation bore a striking similarity of genius and
a frame of mind akin to theirs. More fortunate than Boussingault, you
have enjoyed the rare advantage of conducting with an unequalled
vigour and singleness of purpose through a long series of years the toil¬
some and arduous but glorious pursuits to which you have devoted your
life, and of crowning your multifarious researches with results of
scientific and practical value, which for ever will engrave your name in
the grateful memory of mankind. May you. Sir and dear colleague,
with the powerful assistance of your learned friend Dr. Gilbert, con¬
tinue during many years to come your noble and fruitful existence for
the benefit of your contemporaries and of posterity. With this our
heartfelt wish, we have the honour. Sir and dear colleague, to remain
your respectful and affectionate admirers, and in special Committee
assembled appose duly our signatures E. Tisserand, President ;
Chatin, Vice-President ; Louis Passy, Secretaire Perpetuel; Henry
L. DE ViLMORiN, Vice-Secretaire ; A. Liebault, Tresorier Perpetuel ;
J. Laverriebe, Librarian. Paris, 19th July, 1893.”

Sir John Lawes, who, on rising to reply, was received with hearty
cheering, said that it was only a very few months since he and his wife
received the congratulations of many friends on having attained fifty years
of married life, which was occasionally called a golden wedding. That

August 3, 1893. 1

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

105

afternoon lie had to return thanks to that distinguished company for
congratulating himself and Dr. Gilbert on the work they had carried on
together for fifty years. When two persons were joined together in
marriage they could not part — they were bound together by a solemn
tie. Dr. Gilbert and himself were bound by no ties ; but this con¬
nection, as he had said, had continued fifty years. What was the cause of
that ? It was nothing less than that he had an immense love of the
work they were engaged in. He had delighted in the work from the
very beginning, and had given as much time to it as he could consistent
with other duties ; but Dr. Gilbert had made it the work of his life.
Had it not been for the labours of Dr. Gilbert the affairs of Rothamsted
would have been in a diflferent state to that in which they now were.
Dr. Gilbert was not only at work when he was at home, but what were
called holidays were spent by him in visiting other countries and places,
by putting himself in communication with other bodies, so that he
might make his own work more valuable to those at home. This year
he was going to Chicago to deliver a course of lectures on the work at
Rothamsted. Sir John Lawes then cordially thanked those present for
the presentations which had been made to him, and hoped that in
fifty years’ time such a representative assembly as he saw in front of him
would meet to do honour to those who came after them. (Cheers.)

Dr. Gilbert, in acknowledging the gifts, referred to the coldness
and doubt with which their early experiments were received, especially
when they departed from the orthodox lines, and instanced how those
who at first opposed them eventually were converted and became their
firm advocates and supporters in a work so important to the agricultural
interest. He thanked Sir J. Lawes for the very kind way he had
referred to their connection, and expressed the hope that it would
continue, although in the natural course of things it could not be
expected to exist for many more years, but they desired that matters
would be left in such a way that their work might still be carried on
by others. (Cheers.)

Votes of thanks to the Executive Committee and to the Minister
of Agriculture for presiding brought a memorable function to a pleasant
conclusion. Most of the visitors afterwards attended a reception given
by Lady Lawes in the picturesque old manor house at Rothamsted. —
(“The Times.”)

CARNATIONS AT SLOUGH.

Caenatiok growers, like others interested in horticulture, will have
cause for remembering the season of 1893. Good blooms have been as
abundant this year as on any other previous occasion, but the period of
flowering has been disastrously short. Evidence of this one could not
help noting in many ways. Where possible dates of the Carnation shows
were altered to meet the requirements of growers, and in such cases
flowers of excellent quality were staged. There were, however, excep¬
tions to this rule, and where it was found practically impossible to
change the dates of the shows according to the season, the display of
bloom was far from being extensive. In a similar manner the Carna¬
tions in the garden have been affected, and it is only by the greatest
difficulty that it has been possible to retard the blooms. Nurseries
as well as private gardens have suffered in this way, and on calling at
Mr. C. Turner’s Royal Nurseries, Slough, a week or so ago I found most
of the blooms practically past their best. I was, however, in time to
take a hasty glance at the flowers that were exhibited at Birmingham on
Saturday, July 22nd, before the boxes were despatched to the railway
station.

For the purpose of keeping the blooms clean, and perhaps retarding
them, many plants were in pots in shaded houses. It could be easily
seen that the Carnations had been exceedingly fine, and that a large
and choice collection is grown at Slough. The best in flower at the
time of my visit included some grand varieties. Among the seifs Rose
Wynne was specially noticeable. This is a crimson self with a fine
broad petal, and the bloom is very large. When shown at the Earl’s
Court Exhibition last year it attracted attention, and a first-class
certificate was awarded for it. King of the Scarlets was also exceed¬
ingly good. This is a grand self of good shape and substance, and
should be found in every garden. Iver White is one of the best white
Carnations in cultivation, being of good habit, early, and very profuse
in flowering. Rose Unique, a splendid flower with broad petals, was in
good condition, as likewise was Salamander. The latter is an exceed¬
ingly fine bloom of a salmon scarlet colour, and has been certificated.
Germania, one of the best yellow seifs, was in first-rate condition ; and
of Rose Celestial, a large rose-coloured self, and an improvement on the
well-known Mary Morris, it can only be said that it should be found in
every garden. The Governor is a fine white with a blush tint, and
Dazzle is a very bright scarlet of a free flowering habit. The latter is
strongly recommended for bedding purposes. Ne Plus Ultra, a fine
fringed white, was grand, and Duchess of Fife, a soft pink shade, was
specially noteworthy. Tree or perpetual flowering Carnations are also
extensively and well grown, and the same may be said of seedlings.
The latter were past their best, but the huge beds of them left evidence
of what a grand display of bloom there had been. The flowers were
obviously produced in hundreds on each plant, the latter forming a
sturdy tuft of growth.

With regard to the Picotees these, like the other sections, are
admirably represented. The plants are vigorous, healthy, and the
flowers, what remained of them, were all that could be desired. Duchess
of Sutherland is a most distinct and beautiful variety. The flower is
large, full, and heavily edged with bright rose. Madeline is an extra

fine variety, with broad pure white petals, edged with bright rose ; and
in Gazelle we have a medium sized but good shaped flower, with a rich
purple edge. Romulus is a grand Picotee, with a buff ground suffused
with pink ; and Countess of Jersey is a yellow ground variety, edged
with bright rose. Annie Douglas is an attractive flower, with a yellow
ground and deep pink margin. Victory is a splendid variety, with an
orange-coloured ground, flaked and edged with red ; and Old Coin is
another distinct variety of the same character. Lord Rendlesham, Mrs.
Henwood, and Sunset are also good yellow or buff ground varieties, and
being good growers will doubtless find their way into most collections if
they have not already done so. Carnations are by no means the only
plants that are well grown at Slough, but to see them was the purport
of my visit, hence, for the present, the reference to them alone. — C.

The Chrysanthemum Season,

I THINK the coming Chrysanthemum season will be more “ peculiar ’'
than either early or late. Some varieties have been much affected by
the very hot season. The wood has ripened and plants are showing the
crown bud, in some cases three weeks earlier than in other seasons,
while in other varieties the weather has not mads any appreciable
difference. Although it is more than likely that some of the best blooms
will be seen towards the end of October, yet many of the varieties usually
taken on the “crown buds” will this season have to go to the “ terminals,
and thus the majority of the flowers will probably develop somewhere
about the usual time. — Geo. Woodgate, Warren House Gardens,
Kingston Hill,

Chrysanthemum Prospects.

It is difficult at present to accurately guage the prospects of the
season as to its being early or late. My opinion is that it will
not be a late one, but rather the opposite amongst the general body of
cultivators who cannot be said to have had much experience in the
cultivation of Chrysanthemums primarily for cut blooms. My reason
for thinking so is this. There is such a tendency nowadays to obtain
size in the flowers, and those persons to whom I chiefly allude have learnt
that the early formed buds give the largest blooms in one way, and as
many of the plants showed “crown” buds during the month of July
they were loth to let them pass, and consequently many were “ taken,”
with the result that must inevitably follow, early and coarse flowers.

By following such a method of culture I prognosticate much
grumbling from the middle of October about the earliness of certain
varieties. When we see such varieties as Mdlle. Lacroix and Peter the
Great showing the colour of their florets and developing from
“crown” buds in July, what must we expect in October? Such
instances as this are but examples of what are to follow. Experienced
growers know that buds “ taken ” in July are entirely useless with
but few exceptions, that they fight shy of any that form at that time,
preferring to have others which will show themselves about the third
week in August, as the result of pinching out the July buds and
running on the growth another stage. — E. Molyneux.

The Chrysanthemums about here are forming their “ crown ” buds
very early — in fact, too early to be of any use for exhibition. Stanstead
White, Etoile de Lyon, E. Molyneux, Beauty of Castlewood, Viviand
Morel, and Comte de Germiny have all shown the “crown” bud.
During the past week buds could plainly be seen on Avalanche, Puritan,
W. H. Lincoln, Hamlet, Louis Bcehmer, Mrs. A. Hardy, Gloire de Rocher,
and several others. W. H. Lincoln, Madame Lacroix, and Viviand
Morel have already thrown three “ crown ” buds each.

The following varieties of incurves are also showing this morning
(July 31st) Jeanne d’Arc, third bud ; Mons. Bahuant, third bud ;
Madame Pierre Blancard, over 6 feet high ; Ami Hoste, G. Doughty,
Queen of England, and also on a plant of Miss M. A. Haggas that was
pinched back on May 29th. Several others look as though the bud
would appear in a few days. With the exception of Mrs. A. Hardy,
Beauty of Castlewood, and Louis Boehmer, none of the buds have been
taken. The plants are very strong and healthy, and at present have not
received any stimulant with the exception of a little soot water occa¬
sionally. Taken all round, I am afraid it will be a difficult matter to
time the buds with any certainty, and several gardeners I have spoken
to on the subject are of the same opinion. It would be interesting to
know how other Chrysanthemums are behaving in different localities. —
W. J., Suit 071, Storey,

CANKER IN FRUIT TREES.

In Mr. Abbey’s article entitled “ Canker in Fruit Trees ” occurs the
following passage, on page 50 : — “ There is no question about the Pear
trees ; they or their fruit are troubled with the scab fungus, Cladosporium
or Fusicladium dendriticum var. pyrinum, which attacks the young wood
and produces cankerous scaly condition of the bark, &c.”

There is a fungus which attacks the young wood of the Pear tree as

106

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 3, 1893.

above stated, and also the young wood of the Apple tree, the bark of
which splits, and underneath is an erumpent stroma (black perithecium)
subcarbonaceous externally, said to be fleshy within. The leaves of a
Pear tree which are attacked by this fungus are previously attacked by
the leaf fungus Actinema crataegi orbiculatum, and the fruits in such
case are attacked by the Fusicladium dendriticum. The opinion now
seems to be that the Actinema is the forerunner of the other, and an
earlier stage of it. I should be very glad if Mr. Abbey would tell your
readers whether this fungus on the young wood with the black peri¬
thecium is the one to which he intends to refer to, and apparently con¬
siders to be Fusicladium dendriticum. In my younger days it used to
be called Dothiora pyrenophora of Fries.

I should also be obliged if Mr. Abbey has been able to find Nectria
ditissima on the roots of Apple trees, and what are the factors which
produce canker on the root. I have often found roots of trees the top
growth of which is badly cankered perfectly free from canker. I may
add that both the Dothiora and the Fusicladium dendriticum are the
food of the beetle mite Oribata orbicularis. — H. P.

In your number of July 20th Mr. Abbey has incorrectly, and I
think unfairly, quoted my letter to you, published on page 498 of your
journal.

Firstly, he states that I gave no reasons for coming to the conclusion
that insects and fungus were due to the disease (canker), and not the
disease to them, whereas I stated that “ I had tried insecticides and
cleansing the wound,” and as these did no good I abandoned the theory
of insects and fungus.

Secondly, I said canker may differ — i.e., have a different form — on
various soils and in different localities. Mr. Abbey says, “Just so ; it is
a question of varieties suited to different soils and localities.” I did not
apply the remark to particular varieties, bat simply to convey that I
could only speak of canker as it appeared in my own garden, as I had no
knowledge of it anywhere else.

Thirdly, Mr. Abbey states my remedy to be cutting off the worst
cankered branches and cleansing the remainder, but omits the chief
remedy as stated in my letter, as I go on to say, “ I pared off the top
soil and round the stems of the trees as far as I thought the roots would
reach to the depth of nearly a foot, and put some strong decayed farm¬
yard manure on the top of them, covering it with the top soil to induce
the trees to find their sustenance near the surface instead of striking
downwards to the poverty-stricken and cankerous undersoil.” “ The
result was a complete success.”

Mr. Abbey goes on to say that if I had cut away all the cankered
parts it is perfectly clear I should not be troubled with canker again.
This I beg leave to doubt, as it does not agree with my own experience
of some trees from which I cut all the cankered parts away.

Fourthly, Mr. Abbey says that “ Mr. Tendered cures canker in
Gooseberry and Currant bushes by letting it have its run of them, and
when they are no longer profitable roots them out and plants new trees,”
whereas I said “ I did not try to cure them.” As to whether the
disease in them and Laurels is canker I am not sure, but I know it is
similar in its operation, and believe it arises from the soil. Fifteen
years ago I planted a hedge of Laurels upon a bank of made soil. They
are now 10 feet high, and are most luxuriant in their growth, with
scarcely a dead bough. Seven or eight years after I planted in the same
garden a hedge of the same kind of Laurels on the level ground. These
grew rapidly for a few years, but latterly whole branches have died,
though they grow again near the bottom. With this example before me
I think I am justified in attributing the disease to the soil and not to
fungus.

Mr. Abbey’s lengthy articles are, no doubt, very good from a scientific
point of view, but I doubt whether they are not beyond the reach of the
ordinary fruit grower, and I invite your readers to try the simple remedy
contained in my letter on page 498 of your Journal, and I believe
they will have the same success in destroying canker as I have. —
Thos. Pendeked.

SCARLET RUNNER BEANS NOT SETTING.

1 CAN corroborate the experience of “ T. S., Bristol ” (Journal of
Horticulture, July 27th, page 80). My Scarlet Runners at Ealing have
also failed this year to a very large extent, notwithstanding constant and
copious watering through the whole period of their growth. Messrs.
Sutton & Sons have noticed a similar thing at Reading, and I find the
same is occurring in Dorset. Mr. Darwin observed that this species of
Phaseolus often fails to set pods in the absence of bees, which are
required to fertilise the flowers ; whereas the French Bean is independent
of them, being always self-fertilised, and consequently can be forced in
winter. Moreover, the bees often secure the honey illegitimately by
perforating the calyx from without ; the humble bees come first and
make the hole, the hive bees following suit and taking advantage of
the hole.

That bees are scarce this year appears to be the case from the follow¬
ing extract from a letter in the “Daily News” of July 10th. The
writer from Much Hadham, Herts, says : — “ The present is one of the
worst seasons ever known for swarms. Under ordinary circumstances
I should have had at least a dozen swarms, but I have not had one.
The bee crop is, like many other crops this year, almost a total failure.”
— Geokge Henslow.

I, LIKE “ T. S.,” have noticed that these Beans do not set so well as
usual this season. In this garden we have rows which have run up
10 feet high, and to all appearances are the picture of health, having
received copious supplies of water during dry weather and mulchings of
partly decayed manure. Even now that we have had such delightful
showers the Beans do not set as well as could be expected. Although
plenty of the flower racemes are 1 foot in length, only a very few pods
are forthcoming from the base. I am totally at a loss to understand
the reason for this state of things, and am waiting for some scientific
reason to be given. — E. Molyneux.

There seems to be a very general complaint hereabouts concerning
the non-setting of Scarlet Runner Beans. It is not often the plants
grow so strongly and are in such good condition for bearing so early in
the season, and the failure to set is all the more disappointing accord¬
ingly. From Breconshire I hear the same, or very nearly the same
report. Curiously enough in the latter case a few pods did form at first,
then comes a gap on the spikes, and now more Beans are setting again.
In this locality they failed completely at first, and now are doing fairly
well. As it happens our first pods are not more than two-parts the size
they ought to be, imperfect pollination evidently being responsible for
this malformation of pods.

I am under the impression the first flowers were, owing probably to
the excessive heat in which they were partially developed, imperfectly
formed, or at any rate deficient in pollen, this accounting for their
dropping off prematurely. It is true humble bees are not nearly so
numerous as usual, but if their assistance is needed in the case of the
earliest flowers, why not also for those that follow ? The common bees
are working among our rows every day, but no humble bees. It is
doubtful if a remedy for this non-setting can be suggested, and the
chances are the same circumstances will not be noticeable again by the
present generation of gardeners. — W. Igghlden, Somerset,

Our Beans are in the same condition as those of “ T. S., Bristol."
The plants are a picture in health and robustness ; they never know
what it is to be in want of either drink nor food, and are very floriferous.
But alas 1 how disappointing to observe a naked raceme with but a
couple of pods at its base, and two flowers at the points, whose fate is
to fall like its predecessors.

For an hour I viewed the bees, both humble and hive, searching for
nectar in these showy flowers. Out of the whole number only one hive
bee entered the flower in front ; they all seemed to alight outside between
tbe calyx and corolla, and thus from one flower to the other they flew.
I could not imagine how they obtained any honey, as both calyx and
corolla are so closely united, until I plucked a few, and then found out
the secret, of which many more are in quest. At the base of each
corolla there was an aperture, drilled no doubt by these honey searchers,
and into this hole they pushed their proboscis, and obtain the honey
with greater ease than down the tube. The same thing is done to
extract the honey out of the flower tubes of my Bouvardias, which soon
get unsightly and wither.

The disturbance of the reproduetive organs is the cause of failure.
They are enveloped in a spirally twisted keel, which makes it awkward
for the bees to enter, hence the reason for the short cut for hidden
treasure. No doubt were the bees to enter the flower the right way a
better set would be the result. — J. D., Duffryn, S. Wales,

This important crop is unusually late and the gatherings sparse this
season, few growers having picked pods before August. The cause is
generally attributed to the droughty weather, and it certainly is the
chief reason of the late and scanty crops. In the early part of the
season the flowers are often defective, dropping wholesale ; but it is
not confined to that exclusively, as many racemes cast greater part
or the whole of the blossoms at different parts of the season without
forming pods. Stopped plants, as in field cultures, usually set the
first flowers better and afford earlier pickings than those staked and
unstopped. The latter, however, produces pods more abundantly later
in the season, and this points to drought or starvation as the prime
agent in non-setting. Mulched plants also yield a good crop when those
in dry and poor soil are sterile, and plants in the open are often loaded,
while those grown against walls or fences produce little beyond flowers.

The Scarlet Runner is merely a form or variety of the Dwarf or
French Kidney Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), a native of tropical and
temperate regions ; “ universally cultivated but not anywhere clearly
known as a wild plant ” (Baker), and was introduced to this country in
1597 as a tender annual, yet it is much hardier than the Scarlet Runner
(P. V. multiflorus). This is considered to be a native of South America,
and it is a remarkable fact that the evolutions from it are much more
hardy and prolific than the old type or common Scarlet Runner, and
points to the necessity of originating new varieties and selecting those
best fitted to the environment. There is considerable difference in the
old variety both in hardiness of plant, setting, and productiveness, and
by saving seed from those most profitable large growers have secured
strains which are far more productive and certain in cropping than
where saving seed indiscriminately is practised. It is also a notable
fact that “runners” with the pods of French Beans are less hardy than
Dwarf Kidney Beans generally.

As to the necessity of humble bees forjeffecting pollenation in Scarlet
Runners, it is certain that in large towns, where these plants are grown

August 3, 1693,

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

107

largely for ornament and use against walls, fences, and as screens, the
abundant crops must be mostly, if not entirely, due to self -fertilisation.
Indeed, it is doubtful if humble bees contribute to the setting of Beans,
for in towns they are by no means plentiful, and French Beans set
abundantly under glass when the bees are asleep. Besides this, the
humble bees are never seen partial to Beans, and work most on wild
plants, though they will visit exotics in cases of emergency, and some¬
times damage Beans by boring a hole in the calyx to obtain the nectar
more easily. In that case the flowers are not fertilised, and the seeds
become abortive. Nevertheless, there is reason to believe that certain
plants — that is, Red Clover, are dependent on humble bees for their
fertilisation, and they may generally be regarded as useful allies through
their conveying pollen from flower to flower. — G. Abbev.

FRITILLARIA ARMENA.

Among the dwarf-growing Fritillarias, the species depicted in the
illustration (fig. 17) occupies a prominent place. As the specific name
implies, F. armena is a native of Armenia, and was introduced in 1878,
but it is not generally well known in gardens. It is a charming little
plant, growing about 6 inches in height. The flowers are brownish
purple, and as will be seen by referring to the woodcut, are small^
campanulate, and slightly drooping. They are usually produced in
April. There is a yellow form of this species named F. a. fusco-lutea.
This was introduced in 1887 and is a native of Smyrna.

The engraving was prepared from a sketch taken at the Royal
Gardens, Kew, where the choicer Fritillarias can be seen in bloom
during the spring and early summer. F. armena can be grown in
sheltered positions on a rockery or border, or in pots in a cool green¬
house.

COOMBE COURT.

Amongst the residences and gardens that so finely decorate the
lower portion of the Duke of Cambridge’s estate at Coombe, Kingston-
on-Thames, there are few prettier or more admirably kept than is that
under notice. For some years it was the residence of Mr. Watney, but
now is the property of Mr. W. A. Bevan, one of a well-known banking
firm, and Mr. Springthorpe is the able and esteemed gardener. The
front or upper side of the grounds abuts on a new road that runs
through Coombe Warren, and there are seen on the outer wall , which is most
pleasingly covered with Ivies planted outside, evidence of the neatness
which prevails within. The lower side of the grounds, probably one-
third of a mile distant, abuts on to Coombe Lane, where a long line of
close-trimmed Lime trees shows again the estimation in which order and
neatness is held. The fine house, one of red brick, stands on the upper
margin, and for that reason obtains some splendid views over the county
of Surrey, the wjiich spreads out south like a beautiful panorama.

In the grounds the centre portion comprises two or three enclosures,
in which cows luxuriate, whilst surrounding these are extensive
shrubberies and walks, all admirably kept, and where there are many
beautiful trees, that are not at all common, whilst there are some
efiectively planted flower beds on the upper terraces for the summer.
In the spring it is possible to look down in divers places in the grounds
of really grand masses of Rhododendrons, Azaleas, and other flowering
shrubs, the which, even at remote distances, have been planted to be
seen from the terrace. Kalmias do wonderfully here.

There are good walled kitchen gardens admirably cropped, and a
large number of houses, in which fruit and flowers are well grown,
whilst there seems to be not an inch of level ground in the place.
A good tennis court has been formed, and, in spite of the sand which
forms so much of the subsoil, trees and shrubs thrive splendidly.

I was much interested in the fine wall of Cherries. The trees are in
the best of health, very clean, and some of them reaching to the top of
the 9-feet wall, also run from 12 to 16 feet in length, and in all cases
were carrying heavy crops of fruit. They were all close netted ; the
nets, however, not hanging in immediate contact with the leaves, but
held off from some 3 feet at the base, slanting up to the top, by long
bamboo rods.

Asked whether much trouble had been found from aphis, Mr. Spring¬
thorpe said that when the points of the summer shoots were being
infested, he cut them all bare back, had their trimmings carefully
removed at once, and burnt, and the fly had since given no further
trouble. Of course the fruit was a little less in size than usual, owing
to the drought, but then none of the fruits had cracked, as is so
commonly the case, when rain is plentiful.

From the earliest variety. Early May, fruits for tarts were gathered
early in May, and for dessert in the middle of the month. Early
Rivers followed, then May Duke, Frogmore Bigarreau, Black Eagle,
Bigarreau Napoleon, and latest the Old Bigarreau. The Cherry portion
of the wall is about 100 yards long, and capitally furnished throughout.
In one part of the garden low down a standard Morello is fruiting
heavily, whilst within 20 feet is another that has hardly a fruit upon it.
Both were in full bloom in the middle of April, when as is well known
one or two sharp white frosts prevailed. These frosts, erratic in effect,
killed the blossom on one tree and left the other unharmed, yet both
were apparently equally exposed. — A. D.

LIVERPOOL SUMMER SHOW.

July 26th and 27th.

Nevek perhaps in the history of the Liverpool Horticultural Asso¬
ciation has there been a better all-round Show than that which was
opened on the Review Ground, Sefton Park, on Wednesday and Thursday
last. In every class the competition was of the keenest character, and
the exhibits numbered 100 'more than last year. Although the large
marquee in which the plants were shown covered some 3000 square yards,
the entire space was fully occupied, the centre portion containing one
broad stretch of beautiful foliage and flowering plants.

Specimen Plants and Groups.

Mr. Finch, gardener to W. Marriott, Esq., Coventry, secured the
highest award for eight stove and greenhouse plants, having grand
examples of Cycas circinalis, Kentias australis and Fosteriana, and

FIG. 17. — FRITILLARIA ARMENA.

a fine Croton Queen Victoria; Erica impressa, Phoenocoma prolifera
Barnesi 5 feet across well flowered, Ixoras Fraseri 5 feet, and a
grand salicifolia. Mr. Cromwell, gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Allerton, was a close second, his grand Croton Queen
Victoria 7 feet 6 inches across being the admiration of all. This
exhibitor also showed splendid plants of Alocasia Lowi, Statiee profusa
and Ixora Williamsi. Mr. R. Pinnington, gardener to Mrs. Banner,
Blacklow House, Roby, was third in this class with smaller plants.
There was a close competition between Messrs. Jellicoe, gardener to
F. H. Gossage, Esq., J.P., Camp Hill, Woolton, and Healey, gardener to
Col. Wilson, Hillside, Allerton, for six stove and greenhouse flowering
plants, the former winning by the superiority of his foliage plants,
which contained two magnificent bush Crotons Countess and Mortfor-
tainensis, his best flowering specimens being Allamanda Hendersoni,
Anthurium Andreanum. Mr. Healey staged beautiful examples of
Crotons interruptus, aureus, and Queen Victoria ; and Cycas revoluta.
Erica impressa, and Allamanda Hendersoni. Mr. Leadbeater, gardener
to W. J. Davey, Esq , Aigburth, a good third. Mr. Healey also succeeded
in defeating Mr. Finch with four stove and greenhouse flowering plants,
staging Allamanda Schotti, Erica Wilsoni, Ixora Williamsi, and
Cypripedium barbatum. Mr. Finch had a fine Allamanda grandi-
flora. Mr. Bracegirdle, gardener to W. H. Watts, Esq., Elm Hall,
Wavertree, being third. In the class for three stove and greenhouse
plants in flower, Mr. Jellicoe was first also for four fine-foliage plants,
Mr. McFall and Mr. Healey taking second honours, whilst the latter
succeeded in securing the prize for three Palms, Mr. Pinnington being

103

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 3, 1893.

second. For one fine-foliage plant Mr. Cromwell staged one of the most
charming specimens of Croton Williamsi it would be possible to see, grand
in colour, 6 feet across. For one stove plant and one greenhouse plant in
bloom Mr. Finch secured both prizes, the second honours going to
Mr. Carling, gardener to Mrs. Cope, Dove Park, Woolton.

Ferns were admirably shown, the prize for six plants going to Mr,
T. Gower, gardener to J. A. Bartlett, Esq., Lynton Lodge, Mossley Hill,
the chief being Goniophlebium subauriculatum, Davallia Mooreana, and
Dicksonia antarctica. A splendid second prize exhibit was arranged by
Mr. Cromwell, his best being Davallia fijiensis, Nephrolepis davallioides
furcans, and Microlepia hirta cristata. Mr. Bracegirdle was third. Mr.
Cromwell took the prizes for three Fuchsias and one Fuchsia, showing
good plants. In the class for three Ferns Mr. J. J. Craven, gardener to
J. G. Grant Morris, Esq., Allerton Priory, was a good first, having
Microlepia hirta cristata, 9 feet, and Gleichenia rupestris glaucescens,
very fine; Mr. G. Eaton, gardener to W. H. Shirley, Esq., Allerton, being
second. The prizes for one tree Fern and one (not tree) went to Messrs.
Bracegirdle and T. Moorhouse, gardener to R. Brocklehurst, Esq., West
Derby, the latter being first for one Zonal Pelargonium, and second for
six Tuberous Begonias. The first honours for six Begonias and one went
to Mr. T. Ankers, gardener to W. B. Bowring, Esq., Aigburth, for some
of the finest varieties ever seen at the Show. With six Zonal Pelar¬
goniums Mr. T. Gower was the only exhibitor. Ivy-leaf Geraniums,
Caladiums, table plants. Gloxinias, Cockscombs, Coleus, and Liliums
were admirable, the prizes going to Messrs. J. Stoney, gardener to Sir
Thomas Earle, Bart., Allerton Tower ; G. Eaton ; J. Bounds, gardener to
A. L. Jones, Esq., Oakfield, Aigburth; P. Greene, Eaton, Bounds, and
Pattison, gardener to S. J. Waring, jun.. Esq., Palmyra, Aigburth, in the
order named, the latter winning with one Palm, Mr. Finch being first
for one Erica.

There were four groups arranged for space not exceeding 150 square
feet. In this Mr. Jellicoe was an easy first with a light central mound,
and at intervals outside several smaller ones. There was a good ground¬
work of Maidenhair Fern, from which peeped small Francoas and other
plants, the whole being edged with Panicum. Mr. Moorhouse, for second
place, showed much improvement from anything he has done before,
and 'should prove a difficult competitor at a future Show. Mr. Brace¬
girdle staged a very pretty group, but used scarlet Pelargoniums rather
too freely, which impaired the effect. In the nurserymen’s section, 250
square feet, Messrs. R. P. Ker & Sons, Aigburth Nursery, were easily first
with a charming group. Mr. P. Poulton, Aigburth, was second. The
prize for four Orchids went to Mr. J. Bounds with Cattleyas Eldorado
Wallisi and virginalis, Oncidium crispum grandiflorum and vexillaria
rubellum. Mr. Bracegirdle followed closely, his best being Cattleya
Sanderiana and Disa grandiflora. Mr. W. Lyon was first with a
single Orchid.

Cut Flowers.

Considering the season Roses came as a surprise to all visitors by
reason of their excellence. The battle was fought entirely between
Ireland and Scotland, Messrs. Cocker of Aberdeen winning in every
class from Messrs. Alex. Dickson & Sons, the Royal Nurseries, New-
townards, Co. Down. In the class for forty-eight distinct they had
charmingly fresh blooms. Messrs. Dickson & Sons had very good
Suzanne Marie Rhodocanachi, Mrs. John Laing, Alfred Colomb,
Prosper Laugier, Louis Van Houtte, and Her Majesty. For
eighteen Teas and Noisettes, Messrs. Cocker & Sons were
first, and Messrs. Dickson second. For twelve cut Roses, six
light and six dark, Messrs, Cocker & Sons were first with Her
Majesty and Gustave Piganeau ; Messrs. Dickson & Sons second with
Marchioness of Londonderry and Alfred Colomb. For twelve cut Rosea
T. Raffles Bulley, Esq., Liscard, was first ; Mr. J. M'Coll, gardener to
J. W. Hughes, Esq., News Heys, Allerton, second ; and Mr. J. Rimmer,
Ashurst, Formby, third. The boxes of Roses arranged for effect showed
a wonderful improvement, Mr. Carling winning with a beautiful
arrangement arranged with Maidenhair Fern. T. Raffles Bulley, Esq.,
was second, and Mr. P. Greene third.

Stove, greenhouse, and hardy cut flowers were excellent, and the
competition very keen. For twelve stove and greenhouse and twelve
herbaceous flowers, Mr. Jellicoe won honours, the prize for twenty-four
herbaceous going to Mr, G. Eaton for well arranged bunches ;
Mr. T. Coulton was second. The prizes for one and two bouquets went
to C. J. Proctor, Esq. Dahlias and Carnations have never been seen in
better condition, the prizes going to Messrs. H. Banks and A. J. Rogers.
For Messrs. Sutton & Sons’ prizes for Nemesia Strumosa Suttoni Mr.
Harrison, gardener to Mrs. W. G. Bateson, Allerton, was placed first.
The winner in the model garden class was Mr. A. Randall.

Fruit.

Seldom has there been such a display of fruit seen at Liverpool, the
Judges remarking that their duties had been of the most difficult
description. For eight dishes of fruit, distinct, Mr. J. Goodacre,
gardener to the Earl of Harrington, Blvaston Castle, Derby, was
accorded the premier position, having Madresfield Court and Muscat of
Alexandria Grapes, small but well finished ; Dymond Peach, Elruge
Nectarines (splendid). High Cross Hybrid Melon, very large ; McLaughlin’s
Gage Plum and Moor Park Apricots. Mr. Bennett, gardener to Hon.
C. H. Wynn, Rflg, Corwen, N. Wales, was second, showing fine
bunches of Muscat of Alexandria and Black Hamburgh Grapes, not
quite finished ; A1 Melon, Barrington Peaches, Pine Apple Nectarines
The Czar Plum, Moorpark Apricots, and a good Queen Pine. For six
dishes Mr. J. Stoney was first, staging grandly finished Muscat and

Madresfield Court Grapes, Teton de Venus Peach, Downton Nectarines,
Masterpiece Melon, and Purple Gage Plum. Mr. W. Oldham, gardener
to J. Beecham Esq., Ewanville, Huyton, for second position, had grand
Buckland Sweetwater, and Black Hamburgh Grapes, Grosse Mignonne
Peaches, Stanwick Elruge Nectarines, Blenheim Orange Melon, and
Kirke’s Plum. Mr. T. Elsworthy, gardener to A. R. Gladstone, Esq.,
Court Hey, Broad Green, was a good third. Mr. Stoney was also first
for a dish of Peaches with TSton de Venus, for a scarlet-flesh Melon
with Masterpiece, and with two bunches of Muscat of Alexandria, which
for size of berry and perfect colouring could not be surpassed. Mr.
Coates, gardener to W. H. Verdin, Esq., J.P., Knutsford, Cheshire, was
second ; and Mr. J. Gray, gardener to Sir G. Meyrick, Bart., Bodorgan
Anglesea, third. Mr. Bennett was an easy first for four bunches of
Grapes, showing Buckland Sweetwater, Madresfield Court, Black
Hamburgh, and Muscat of Alexandria. Mr. J. Grey, second ; Mr.
G. Middleton, gardener to R. Pilkington, Esq., Rainford Hall, St.
Helens, third.

For two bunches of Black Hamburghs Mr. Middleton was awarded
the silver medal and first prize from amongst ten competitors for what
the Judges considered the best bunches ever staged at an exhibition;
berries like Plums, good colour, and perfection in thinning were the
qualities they possessed. Mr. J. Gray had larger bunches, well coloured,
but smaller in the berry, a good third coming from Mr. T. Elsworthy.
For two bunches any other black, Mr. J. J. Craven had perfect Madres¬
field Court black as Sloes ; Mr. J. Bennett second ; Mr. J. Barker, gardener
to J. W. Raynes, Esq., Rock Ferry, third. Mr. J. Gray was placed first
for any other white Grape with good Foster’s Seedling ; Mr. J. Wynn,
gardener to J. Johnson Houghton, Esq , Westwood, Neston, second ; Mr.
W. Oldham third. Mr. Gray was first for green-fleshed Melon with Hero
of Lockinge, Mr. Goodacre scoring with one Pineapple and Elruge
Nectarines. The prizes for six dishes of hardy fruits and basket of fruit
went to Messrs. G. Dutton and Stoney.

Vegetables.

For twelve varieties, Mr. R. C. Townshend, gardener to Colonel
Lloyd, Aston Hall, Oswestry, was placed first, his best dishes being
Autumn Mammoth Cauliflower, Cranston’s Excelsior Onion, Elcombe’s
Improved Parsnip, Intermediate Carrot, Sutton’s Exhibition Beet, and
Supreme Potato. Mr. J. Hathaway, gardener to the Earl of Latham,
Latham House, Ormskirk, was a good second, having fine Globe Arti¬
chokes, Cranston’s Excelsior Onion, Intermediate Carrot, Wright’s
Grove White Celery. Mr. J. Stoney third. For eight varieties Mr. J.
Pownall, Prescot, was first ; Mr. J. J. Craven second, and Mr. J. Stoney
third. For six varieties Mr. Hathaway was again a good first ; Colonel
Lloyd second ; Mr. J. Stoney third. The prizes for Peas went to
Messrs. Maciver and Craven, the latter also winning with two
dishes of Potatoes and Mr. Hathaway with four dishes. For three
dishes of Tomatoes, one dish, and brace of Cucumbers the prizes went to
Messrs. Forrester, Craven, M. Hannagan, gardener to R. C. Naylor, Esq.,
Hooton Hall.

Nurserymen’s Exhibits.

These were a feature of the Show, certificates of merit being awarded
to Messrs. R. P. Ker & Sons for a variegated Hop, climbing Roses,
and Rose Souvenir de Bonn ; Dicksons, Ltd., for splendid assortment of
herbaceous flowers ; Mr. John Forbes, Hawick, for new white Carnation ;
Mrs. Cranston, Pentstemons, Hollyhocks, border Carnations, and
herbaceous plants ; Messrs. Hewitt & Co., Birmingham, for magnificent
Begonia blooms ; Messrs. Dobbie & Co., Rothesay, for Sweet Peas, Violas,
Carnations, Marigolds and Dahlias, a choice exhibit ; Liverpool Horti¬
cultural Co., for fine bank of Tea Roses, Orchids and Gloxinias ; Messrs.
Charlesworth, Shuttleworth & Co., Bradford, for a group of Orchids ;
Messrs. Thomas Davies & Co., for herbaceous flowers and vegetables ;
Mr. Henry Middlehurst, Manchester Street, Liverpool, for splendid
spikes of seedling Gladioli ; J. de Bels Adam, Esq., for a group of
Tomatoes in 6-inch pots ; and to Messrs. Laing and Mather, Kelso, Scot¬
land, for a superb collection of Carnation blooms in variety, amongst
them being the charming new variety Lady Nina Balfour, a flesh-coloured
self, sweetly scented and very attractive.

THE NATIONAL CARNATION AND PICOTEE SOCIETY.

Northern Section.

The annual Exhibition of this section was held in the Botanical
Gardens, Manchester, on July 29th, and as all the other exhibitions in
the South had taken place, it was somewhat a surprise to see so many
flowers exhibited. There was only one Birmingham grower able to stage
a few blooms, for Carnations in the Midlands were really over. The
following were the awards : —

For twelve Caruations, dissimilar, first, Mr. T. Lord, Todmorden,
with a stand of superb blooms, consisting of Duke of York, Arline (very
fine), Oscar Wilfred, George, S.B. (a grand flower, probably the finest
bloom ever exhibited), Thalia, Master Fred (very rich in colour), Dan
Godfrey, Seedling No. 12, Bruce Findlay (fine). Admiral Curzon,
Thaddeus, and Biddy Malone. Second, Mr. J. Whitham, Hebden
Bridge, with Robert Lord, Oscar Wilfred, Fanny Hudson, Master
Stanley, Thalia, Joseph Lakin, William Dean (very fine). Master Fred,
Wm. Skirving, Lily Cannell, Edward Rowan, and Admiral Curzon.
Third, Mr. H. Geggie, Bury ; fourth, Mr. E. Shaw, Morton, Manchester ;
fifth, Mr. G. Chadwick, Dukinfield.

August 3, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

109

For twelve Picotees, dissimilar, first, Mr. T. Lord, with Norman
Carr, Thomas William, (a wonderfully fine bloom), Little Phil, Morna,
(good), Zerlina (fine), Mr. Payne, Mrs. Gorton, Mr. Sharp, Mary
D. Anstiss, (a superb bloom). Favourite, Campanini, and Alliance.
Second, Mr. E. Shaw, with Little Phil, Nellie (excellent), Mrs. Open-
shaw (Geggie’s, a grand flower and will take a leading position), John
Smith, Thomas William, Morna, Clara Penson, Favourite, Muriel (fine),
Daisy, Mrs. Summers and Campanini. Third, Mr. J. Whitham. Fourth,
Mr. A. R. Brown, Birmingham. Fifth, Mr. H. Geggie. Sixth, Mr. H.
Pomroy, Stakehill, Manchester.

For six Carnations, dissimilar, fiist, Mr. Crossley Head, Hebden
Bridge, with Master Fred (fine), George, Gordon Lewis (fine), Fanny
Hudson, Joe Edwards, and Richard Bealey. Second, Mr. G. Thorniley,
Middleton, with C. H. Herbert, Joe Edwards, Master Fred, Young
Meynill, Ivanhoe, and Thalia. Third, Mr. G. Maddock, Wakefield.
Fourth, Mr. W. Kenyon, Bury. Fifth, Mr. Squire Greenwood, Hebden
Bridge. Sixth, Mr. Joe Edwards, Blackley. Seventh, Mr. Pomroy.
Eighth, Mr. C. F. Thurstans, Wolverhampton.

For six Picotees, dissimilar, first, Mr. Crossley Head with Morna
(good). Little Phil, Miss Wood, Thomas William, Lady Louisa (a very
fine bloom), and Zerlina. Second, Mr. C. F. Thurstans with Dr. Epps
(grand), Zerlina, Mary, Thomas William (very fine). Mrs. Sharp, and
Campanini. Third, Mr. J. Edwards ; fourth, Mr. W. Kenyon ; fifth,
Mr. B. Simonite, Shefiield ; sixth, Mr. Thorniley; seventh, Mr. Green¬
wood ; eighth, Mr. Maddock.

For twelve seifs, first, Mr. E. Shaw, with Germania, Reuben Butler
(two), Mrs. Muir, Lillie Shaw, Mrs. Fred, Mrs. Lee, and four seedlings.
Second, Mr. A. R. Brown, Handsworth, Birmingham, with Ruby, Mrs.
Fre3, Attraction, Germania (two blooms), Wieland (two), Koerner,
Patience, Aurora, Hebe, and Berenger. Third, Mr. J. Edwards. Fourth,
Mr. T. Lord. For six seifs, first, Mr. Kenyon. Second, Mr. Pomroy.
Third, Mr. C. F. Thurstans.

For twelve Fancy Carnations or Picotees, first, Mr. A. R. Brown,
Birmingham, with an excellent stand of flowers, made up from his fine
remaining blooms on his plants — viz., Alice Brook, fine ; Janira, Eclipse,
Dodwell’s Seedling 166, Richard Tryan, Romulus, Schleiben (two),
Agnes Chambers, Lilian (grand), Stadrath Bail, and Terra Cotta.
Second, Mr. B. Simonite, with Romulus and eleven seedlings. Third,
Mr. Pomroy. For six Fancy varieties. — First, Mr. J. Edwards, with
Harlequin, Jessica, Mrs. Robert Sydenham, A. W. Jones, Dodwell’s
Seedling 680, and a seedling.

In the single bloom classes the awards were as follows ; — Scarlet
bizarre. — First and fifth, Mr. T. Lord with George, and third with Duke
of York. Second, Mr, E. Shaw with George. Fourth, Mr. G. Thorniley
with C, H. Herbert. Crimson bizarre. — First and second, Mr. T. Lord
with Master Fred. Third and fourth, Mr. T. Maddock with Edward
Schofield, Fifth, Mr. C. F. Thurstans with Master Fred. Pink and
purple bizarre, — First and second, Mr. T. Lord with Seedling No. 4, and
third and fifth with Arline. Fourth, Mr. Maddock with Sarah Payne,
Scarlet flake. — First, second, and fifth, Mr, G, Thorniley with Joe
Edwards, Third Mr. Geggie, and fourth Mr. Simonite with William
Dean. Rose flake. — First and fifth, Mr. T. Lord with Thalia. Second,
Mr. Maddock with a seedling. Third, Mr. J. Edwards with Teddy, and
fourth with Mrs. Gunn. Purple flake. — First, Mr. Lord with Gordon
Lewis, third with Mayor of Nottingham, and fourth with James
Douglas. Second Mr. B. Simonite, and fifth Mr. J. Whitham with
James Douglas.

Picotees were shown thus : — Heavy red edge. — First, Mr. Lord,
with Mary D. Anstiss, very fine, fourth with the same variety, and
second with Morna, Third, Mr. Shaw, with Morna. Fifth, Mr,
Thurston, with Dr, Epps. Light red edge. — First, second, and fifth,
Mr. Lord ; third, Mr. Thurstans ; fourth, Mr. Shaw ; all with Thomas
William. Heavy purple edge. — First, Mr. Geggie ; second, Mr.
Thorniley ; fourth, Mr. Shaw ; all with Mrs. Openshaw ; third, Mr.
Lord ; and fifth, Mr. A. R. Brown ; with Muriel, Light purple edge, —
First, third, and fourth, Mr. Thurstans ; second, Mr. Brown ; and fifth,
Mr. Chadwick ; all with Mary. Heavy rose edge. — First, Mr. Brown ;
second, Mr. Thorniley ; both with Mrs. Payne ; third and fifth, Mr.
Lord, with Mrs. Sharp ; fourth, Mr. Kenyon, with Little Phil. Light
rose edge. — First, Mr. Thorniley ; second, Mr. Kenyon ; and fourth,
Mr. Brown ; all with Nellie ; fifth, Mr. Shaw, with Favourite.

The premier Carnation was a grand bloom of George, from Mr. T,
Lord ; the best Picotee being a superb bloom of Thomas William, also
from Mr. Lord.

A first-class certificate was awarded to Mr. T. Maddock for Edward
Schofield, a fine high coloured crimson bizarre Carnation in the style
of Joseph Lakin, A certificate was also awarded to Mr. Joe Edwards
for a dark maroon self Carnation of fine form, petal, and substance, and
named Mancussian.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

The “Acme” Chemical Company, Limited., St. Stephen’s Street,
Tunbridge. — Weedkiilers, Shading, Anti-Fungi Poiodcr, X'c.

De Vries & Co., Aurora Nursery, Beverwijk, Haarlem. — Bulbous
Plants.

Messrs. Laxton Bros., Bedford. — New Strawberries and Coloured
Plate.

E. D. Shuttleworth & Co., Albert Nurseries, Peckham Eye, London,
S.E — Trade Circular.

L. Spath, Baumschule, Berlin. — Bulbs and Miscellaneous Plants.

WOKK.Fo^'r™WEEK.,

HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

Preparing' Ground for Strawberry Planting. — The nature of
the ground on which future crops of Strawberries are intended to be
grown must be first taken into consideration. Poor soil is of little use
for such a gross feeding plant as the Strawberry, but it is possible with too
much manuring and good soil combined to form a rooting medium which
will favour the growth of foliage at the expense of fruit. Adding
manure to ground already full of humus is the most likely to be pro¬
ductive of gross growth in Strawberries. Such soils should be deeply
dug and the whole bulk of material to the depth of 18 inches well
incorporated.

The Best Soil. — The best soil for Strawberries is undoubtedly that of
medium quality and richness. What are usually termed holding loams
are good, as well as heavy soils not naturally stiff or wet to any extent.
Such soils encourage a firm and steady growth, not over-luxuriant but
strong and favourable to fruitfulness. If deeply dug and freely manured
for any recent crop, such as early Potatoes, very little need be done in
order to prepare the ground for planting beyond completing the removal
of the crop, afterwards forking and levelling the surface.

Light Soil. — On very light gravelly soils it will be advisable to again
manure the plots intended for Strawberries, giving a heavy or light
dressing according to the special requirements. As the ground should
not be too loose when the plants are placed permanently out, its pre¬
paration may take place a week or two previously, compressing the
surface into a firm condition at planting time by the simple operation
of treading wdth the feet, but only when dry or crumbly. If obtainable
the addition of clay or marl to light soils will greatly improve them.

Wet Soil. — Wet soils need special preparation, the subsoil being
made free and open to allow superfluous water to drain away readily.
Should water collect within 3 feet of the surface nothing will make
the soil fit for Strawberry culture but draining. Damp soils produce
foliage at the expense of fruit, and the latter when produced, except
perhaps in very dry seasons, is subject to mildew.

Heavy Soil. — Many soils, usually stiff and heavy, only require work¬
ing well to be admirably suited for Strawberry culture. Adding sand,
road scrapings, or fine coal ashes together with thorough and frequent
moving and mixing will bring them into suitable condition. Ridging
roughly in the winter to expose as much surface as possible to the action
of frost tends to hasten the amelioration of such soil. A season’s culti¬
vation is often requisite with the most obstinate and retentive soils. It
is little or no use planting if the ground is not friable. Better continue
to work the ground during the autumn, winter, and spring, planting at
the latter period if the results of thorough cultivation are sufficiently
evident to warrant it.

Manure. — Farmyard manure is usually the best to work into the
ground, not applying it, as a rule, in a fresh state or fully decomposed,
but partly decayed, it then containing its most important constituents.
For light soils cow excreta is good, and for very heavy retentive
ground farmyard manure containing a large proportion of strawy
material is excellent.

Trenching Ground. — It is not wise to follow immediately an old
bed of Strawberries with the same crop again. If, however, it be
absolutely necessary to do it the best plan to adopt is to pare off the
strong clumps of plants, leaving the mass of rooted runners, if not
wanted, and weeds to be trenched in. The nature of the subsoil must
determine whether ordinary or bastard trenching .should be carried
out. Boor subsoil must not be brought to the surface, and the rich
buried deeply. In bastard trenching properly done the layers of soil
will practically remain the same. Work in plenty of good manure,
also trench any hard or weedy ground. The deep moving facilitates the
passage of air and water through it, and an opportunity is afforded of
burying troublesome weeds, except such as Bindweed or Couch Grass,
which ought to be picked out as trenching proceeds. The sooner the
ground for this season’s planting is prepared the better.

Planting- Strawberries.— In order to secure early and heavy
supplies of fruit from young plants the first year it is imperative that
early planting be adopted, and that the best, strongest, and most
vigorous rooted plants only be inserted. Runners rooted early in pots,
turves, or mounds of soil will supply plants in the right condition.
Plant during the first two weeks in August, choosing if possible a dull
period with the surface not wet. If dry weather prevails at the time of
planting draw rather deep drills, placing the plants in these so that each
may be in a slight depression or basin in which water can be poured to
enable them to become readily established.

After Treatment . — Along with fresh growth runners will form and
extend, but nip them off closely and regularly as they show. The Dutch
hoe run frequently between the rows will loosen the surface soil, destroy
seedling weeds, and promote growth of the plants.

Distances to Plant. — The exact distances between the rows and
plants vary with the different varieties and soils. The width between
the rows containing the strongest growers may in good soil be 3 feet.
For robust growers have the rows 2| feet asunder, moderate growing

110

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 3, 1893.

varieties being allowed 2 feet. The distances between the plants in the
rows may be 6 inches less in each case. On poor ground the rows and
plants may be a little closer. Insert any spare runners or small plants
6 inches apart in nursery beds. These come in useful for spring
planting.

FRUIT FORCING.

Peacbes and Nectarines. — Early Houses. — The leaves on trees
started in December and early January are now beginning to fall, and
there is great danger of orer-maturity of the buds or their premature
excitement, which, followed by a eheck however slight, causes them to
drop. The trees must not lack moisture, affording water or liquid manure
to those that are weakly as it becomes necessary. Excessive moisture
at the roots, however, is liable to cause premature growth in the buds,
which must be guarded against by cool treatment and judicious manage¬
ment. There is little danger of the borders being made unduly wet by
rain, provided the drainage is thorough and the soil sufficiently furnished
with gritty and calcareous matter. Allow such laterals as are green and
unripe to remain as an outlet for any excess of sap ; they are the best
safeguard against starting the bloom buds, and equally effective in main¬
taining activity at the roots. Early forced trees form far too many
blossom buds as a rule, so that there is comparatively few wood buds,
and these mostly confined to the base and extremity of the shoots.
Neither is the growth strong, hence in pruning it is not desirable to cut
back next year’s bearing wood unless the shoots are of great length.

Where disbudding has been attended to, no more wood being trained
in than is required to replace the bearing shoots of the current year and
to renew worn-out growths, as well as to provide for the proper extension
of the trees, very little pruning will be needed. Indeed, trees that have
long been subjected to early forcing frequently become so enfeebled as to
need the removal of the weak growths, which afford much smaller fruit
than is yielded by the moderately vigorous and well-ripened shoots.
Such trees, if very weak, may have the old soil carefully removed from
amongst the roots, supplying fresh rather strong calcareous loam in its
place. Any trees which grow too luxuriantly must be lifted and the
roots carefully laid in fresh soil, if necessary, near the surface. Give a
good watering to the trees that have had the soil renewed about the
roots, also to those which have been lifted. These operations require to
be performed as soon as the leaves are mature and before they fall from
the trees.

Succession Houses. — Cut away the shoots that have borne fruit
unless required for extension, and thin the growths where they are too
crowded. This will allow of the thorough cleansing of the foliage with
water from the syringe or engine, repeating as necessary, so as to keep
the foliage and wood free from insects, preserving the leaves in health as
long as possible. The freer access of light and air will also assist the
perfecting of the buds and ripening of the wood. Attend to a due
supply of water at the roots. Where the fruit is ripening a free circula¬
tion of air will enhance the quality considerably, sufficient water only
being given at the roots to prevent the foliage becoming limp, and
securing air moisture by occasionally damping the surfaces. If the
trees suffer from dryness at the roots the fruit ripens prematurely, and
an arid atmosphere induces red spider and mealiness in the fruit.

Ants are particularly voracious this season, and eat into the choicest
and best fruits, preferring Nectarines to Peaches, and especially Lord
Napier Nectarine. The ants are attracted by partially picked bones
laid near the haunts, and when smothered with ants the bones are
dropped into boiling water. After the bones are drained and parted
with the water they are eligible again as baits. To prevent their
ascending the trees strips of “ honey fly gum paper ” may be wrapped
around the stem, securing with string, but this is not necessary, only let
the strips overlap and keep close round.

Late Houses. — The wood is best somewhat thinner than is usually
allowed in earlier houses, for it does not ripen so well generally. By
allowing plenty of room the foliage assimilates the sap better, more food
is stored, and the buds form perfectly and the wood ripens well, other
conditions being favourable. Gross growths must be stopped, or better
removed altogether, for they only impoverish the weaker by appro¬
priating an undue amount of sap, preventing its equal distribution,
and favouring nothing but unfruitfulness and gumming. Endeavour,
therefore, to secure an equal balance of moderately strong short-jointed
growths, and to insure their ripening ventilate freely in the morning,
and allowing a good heat from sun through the day, closing in time to
run up to 85° or more. Admit a little air before nightfall to allow the
pent-up heat and moisture to escape, and the atmosphere to gradually
cool, thereby securing rest. This and the early ventilation promotes the
solidification of the wood and its ripening. Forcible syringings will be
necessary until the fruit commences ripening to keep the trees free from
red spider. The borders also must be well supplied with water or liquid
manure, and a light mulching will further surface rooting, as well as
assist in keeping the soil regularly moist, and at the same time affording
nourishment.

melons.— Zufe Fruit. — If Melons are required very late seed
should now be sown. Plants from this sowing will be fit to put out in
about a month, and setting their fruit in September will afford Melons
in November and to the new year. This, however, can only be effected
in a light, airy, well-heated structure, and not always then, for Melons
abhor the autumn mists and fogs. Bottom heat is absolutely necessary,
and is best furnished by hot water pipes in a chamber, as fermenting
materials induce too much vigour in the plants, and decline in heat
when most is required.

Late Summer and October Melons. — To ensure these the plants must

be placed out at once, giving them about a couple of barrowloads each
of good loam, with a sixth each of horse droppings and old lime rubbish
intermixed. Make the compost very firm, and have it in a moist state
before planting. Strong plants, watered the previous night, only are
suitable, for it is far more difficult to produce late than early Melons.
Encourage the plants to make free growth by syringing at closing and
damping surfaces in the morning and evening of hot days. Ventilate
between 70° and 75°, and keep the temperature through the day at those
figures by artificial means, 85° to 90° from sun heat, and close so as to
raise the heat to 95° or 100°, allowing it to fall to 65° through the
night. The plants will show and set fruit upon the first laterals, and
the plants being almost at fruiting stage when put out, this will speedily
be effected.

Plants Swelling their Crops. — Overcropping ruins more Melons than
anything else, therefore reduce the number of fruits when fairly
swelling to two on a weak plant, three on one moderately vigorous, four
on a strong, and six on large and strong plants. Overcrowding the
foliage is equally disastrous to the quality of the fruit, for it requires
all the solidity that can be given to it, and to effect this the growths
must be kept fairly thin, all having full exposure to light. Stop the
laterals to one joint, and where this is likely to result in crowding thin
them. Earth up the plants as the roots protrude, less soil being needed
than earlier in the season, and afford copious supplies of liquid manure,
always weak and tepid. Syringe from 3 to 4 p.m. or earlier, and then
raise the temperature from sun heat to 95° or more. With due supplies
of water at the roots shading will not be necessary, or only after dull
weather, when a light shading will be of benefit from powerful sun
until the plants become inured to it. It may also be needed when the
houses have the ends north and south, and the sun is powerful on the
west side. Place supports to the fruits in good time, and slanting so
that water will not rest upon them.

Fruit Bipening. — A dry atmosphere is essential to secure quality and
prevent the fruit cracking. Admit a little air constantly, maintaining
a circulation by gentle warmth in the pipes, and employing enough
artificial heat to keep the temperature at 70° to 75° by day, advancing
10° to 15° from sun heat, and to prevent its falling below 65° at night.
Withhold water from the roots, but the foliage must not flag or the
quality of the fruit will be seriously deteriorated. Where there is fruit
swelling in the house an occasional damping will be necessary for the
benefit of the foliage, and it will not affect the ripening fruit disastrously
if plenty of air is afforded.

Late Plants in Pits and Frames. — The setting of the fruit should
now be effected, to allow time for its swelling and ripening. If neces¬
sary give a good watering before the flowers open, and line the sides of
the frame and bed with hot manure. Give a little ventilation constantly
at the top, so as to prevent the deposition of moisture on the blossoms,
and continue it until the fruit is set and commences swelling. Impreg¬
nate the blossoms daily, and when suflScient fruits are obtained remove
all flowers, and afterwards keep the growths well stopped and fairly
thin, so that they have plenty of air and light. Maintain a moist and
warm atmosphere to assist the swelling of the fruit, closing early with
sun heat, and sprinkling the plants on fine afternoons. Water will be
required twice a week in bright weather, but supply it sparingly or not
at all when dull, and admit a little air to prevent a stagnant atmosphere.
Ventilate early on fine mornings, and maintain a temperature ranging;
from 80° to 90° through the day from sun heat. If sunny weather
prevails and the heat is properly maintained by linings the fruit will be
good often up to November.

PLANT HOUSES.

Blgnonla grandlflora. — In 5-inch pots this plant flowers pro¬
fusely and is very useful for various decorative purposes. Cuttings of
young wood root freely in houses where a fair amount of moisture
is maintained. The plants should be well ripened and rested in a cool
house. When started into growth in the spring an intermediate tem¬
perature suits them well if fully exposed to the sun. The wood made
must be Arm or else the plants fail to flower.

Gloxinias. — Plants raised from seed sown late in the spring and
now in small pots should be transferred into others 4 and 5 inches in
diameter, according to their size. These, if shaded from bright sunshine
and grown close to the glass in cold frames, will make excellent deco¬
rative plants a few months hence. Few plants when well grown are
more effective. By starting the tubers at intervals of a month and
raising seedlings, a very long succession of bloom can be obtained.
Plants that flowered early and have enjoyed a good season of rest may
be started again into growth. They will soon commence to grow in any
structure that is kept moderately close. The plants may be flowered in
the same pots.

Tuberous Begonias. — Seedlings may be grown in cold frames,,
for although they may appear to be late they will make wonderful
progress, and flower profusely during October and November if placed
in a warm house close to the glass where the atmosphere is kept
moderately dry. The flowers of these Begonias are very useful for
house decoration. They are easily bruised, and therefore do not travel
well.

Nertera depressa. — This is really a charming little plant when
well grown and covered with its coral-like berries. Plants that have
berried well, and have started again into growth, may be broken up and
dibbled thickly into small pots or pans, the latter being best when
needed for table decoration. This plant grows freely in any light
moderately rich soil, and should be kept moist until well established in
an intermediate temperature. By autumn the surface of the pots or

A.ugu3t 3, 1896. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

Ill

pans will be covered with growth, and if well watered we find the plants
winter well on shelves where the temperature does not fall below 45°.
In spring a fair amount of air and full sunshine should be afforded
them, when they will be found to berry freely.

Celoslas. — Plants for autumn and winter now in 3-inch pots, and
may be transferred into 5-inch without delay. Grow the plants in
frames where they can enjoy a liberal amount of air. They should not
be hurried in their last stages or they will be almost certain to damp at
the base when arranged in conservatories and other structures.

Asparagus deflexus. — However effective and useful other varie¬
ties of Asparagus may be for furnishing in pots and for supplying
greenery for cutting, A. deflexus is a handsome basket plant. It is
very distinct in appearance, and its fairly long feathery shoots droop
gracefully over the sides of the basket. This is certainly a great
acquisition to the numerous basket plants at disposal.

Eplptayllums. — These, if assisted by gentle warmth to make their
growth, should now be fully exposed to the sun, and at the same time be
given abundance of air. They flower profusely when the growths are
thoroughly ripened, which is best accomplished by exposure to light and
air, and not by the barbarous system of drying them at their roots until
the plants shrivel. Where stage room is limited these plants do well
grown in pots suspended from the roof by means of wire. In this
position they do not suffer so quickly from the drying conditions of the
atmosphere as many other plants. Even in baskets the plants do very
well, providing they are not overwatered. If strong stocks of Pereskia
are at hand they may be cut into lengths and inserted in small pots. If
pieces of Epiphyllum are attached on the top and then stood in the
propagating frame they will unite by the time the stocks are rooted.
Grafting is easily effected by splitting the stock at the top and the
removal of the bark from the scion, or by placing pieces on each side
after removing a portion of the stock, so that the two barks come
together. When placed on each side of the stock, and each scion point¬
ing outwards, they form good shaped heads much quicker than when
one piece only is attached.

m BBE-KEiEPBR.

m

APIARIAN NOTES.

Notes from the Moors — Swarming.

During the two first weeks of my stay at the moors, amidst
very boisterous weather, I have had not less than eight unexpected
swarms. One hive sent off a swarm that had several young queens
living together for six weeks, which is another lesson of the many I
have bad not to put trust in bees killing the supernumerary queens
by returning swarms. The above case is the most extraordinary
one I have experienced, but it is not uncommon. The Heather
is gorgeous, but it was midday on July 27th before the honey began
to flow, which has been oE short duration, as the morning of 28th
dawned with an overcast sky and low temperature.

Where do drones congregate ? Ancient writers on bees tell us
that drones ascend to the top of the highest hill near the apiary for
the purpose of meeting queens. The 23rd of J uly being a fine day
with the exception of a drizzling rain at intervals, drones were
flying in great numbers. Being also a likely day for queens to be
on the wing I ascended by a ridge to a height of 1400 feet above
sea level and from 300 to 400 feet above the bees. In the bosom
of two prominences and at a great height the drones were in
myriads and the humming they made was converted into a roar.
By their quick movements and darting at each other proved that
our early observers were a great deal more accurate in their obser¬
vations than many modern writers.

Punic Bees.

I hope to be able with these bees to prove an important point,
that is whether being bred at so high an altitude they will become
acclimatised, and consequently hardier. But although a writer
tried to impress us with the belief that Punic bees being natives
of a warm country were tender, I have not found them so. I have
one of my queens that was imported in 1891 still alive and
breeding well, and I know of six others. This is proof that Punic
queens are long lived and very prolific. The queen referred to
has been at the Heather here for three years, which doubly taxes
the laying powers of queens. — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

Swarms not Working.

I HAD a swarm of bees on May 6th, which began to work well
until about a month ago, when they appeared to stop working, and
I never see any workers among them. The bees are still in the
hive, and they have a little comb, there being a large number of
them, but they do not work. I commenced to feed them, but it
did not make any difference to their working. I had another
swarm on the 22nd of May, so I put them in a much larger hive.

They did well, filled the hive, and they are still working, having
commenced to fill a cap I placed on the top of the hive. In the
first swarm I sometimes see the bees fighting with much larger
ones in the same hive. If “ A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper ” would
kindly advise me what to do I should be much obliged, as the
time of year is drawing on, and I am afraid they will not fill their
hive with comb for the winter. — F. J. W.

[The key to enable me in your case to give a proper explanation
is wanting. Prime swarms often issue with an effete queen, so
that it is no better than queenless, and not unfrequently with one
or several young ones, which always run the risk of being lost or
remaining unfertile for several weeks. The swarm under such
conditions throws off a portion of her bees, which renders the
original one too weak to be of much use for the present season,
being with a young and fertile queen too intent on breeding.
Examine the hive or watch the entrance for young bees at a time
when rallying, and if these are present feed till full of comb
and of proper weight to stand the winter. It then ought to be an
excellent and profitable hive for next season. Make it a rule in
your apiary to have no queens older than from ten to twelve
months, and you will be pleased with the little extra labour and
save disappointment. Your hives will also be in the best possible
condition for gathering honey with the minimum amount of swarm¬
ing. Raising nuclei and deposing old queens early in the season
constitute sensible work for the current year as well as for the
following season. — A. L. B. K ]

GARDENERS' CHARITABLE AND PROVIDENT
INSTITUTIONS.

The Gardeners’ Eotal Benevolent Institution. — Secretary,
Mr. G. J. Ingram, 50, Parliament Street, London, W.C.

United Horticultural Benefit and Provident Society. —
Secretary, Mr. W. Collins, 9, Martindale Eoad, Balham, London, S.W.

Eoyal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. — Secretary, Mr. A. F. Barron,
Eoyal Horticultural Society’s Gardens, Chiswick, London, W.

correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Poetry (^Fleur'). — We are unable to inform you in what book the
lines you send occur.

Presentation Book (Flora) . — If the gardener to whom you kindly
wish to present a comprehensive book does not possess “ Thompson’s
Gardeners’ Assistant ” it would be a very useful and appropriate gift.
It is published by Blackie & Sons, and can be obtained through a
local bookseller.

IVIealy Bug- on Vines (A.J.). — Your letter arrived too late to be
fully answered this week. Do the best you can with a forcible jet of
water and the aid of a pointed stick for dislodging the insects before
sending the bunches to table, allowing time after the unenviable
operation for the berries to become dry before dishing the fruit.

Chrysanthemum Bea-ves Falling (Chrysanthemum'). — It is
possible that the bones, if raw, also the excessive use of the guano, have
had a deleterious effect. An application of clear lime water could
not do harm, and might do good, followed by a solution of soda as
advised to another correspondent. The leaves shall be examined
microscopically.

Chrysanthemums (Bob). — The crown buds showing now will give
larger and earlier blooms than you are likely to obtain from the terminal
buds. We do not know in what way you can retard the flowers of
Madame Desgranges other than keeping the plants in the coolest posi¬
tion you can find, but not under trees. Many plants are producing buds
sooner than usual this year through no fault of their cultivators.

112

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 3, 1898.

Tomatoes Diseased (J.. A. B.'). — The specimens did not arrive
in time for the requisite examination being made for the purpose of
reply in the present issue. The case shall have attention.

Wlreworms In Vine Border (J. J.'). — These not easily destroyed
pests are no doubt injuring your Vines. Pursue sedulously your practice
of inserting baits of Potatoes and Carrots, withdrawing them frequently
for securing the depredators. We have known squares of fresh turf
buried in the soil even more effectual than the roots mentioned.
We have heard that sowing Mustard seed on wireworm - infested
land and allowing the plants to grow has in some mysterious way
acted beneficially, but catching the pests is the most certain mode of
riddance.

Cucumbers Falling (^Hampshire'). — The disease in the roots is
caused by minute nematoid worms, and they may be communicated
with soil, manure, or water. We fear your plants are beyond
recovery. Heating the soil to 212° destroys parasitic germs. An
experienced cultivator has found that practice, then mixing with
each bushel of the soil a pint each of steamed bonemeal and soot,
and a quart of wood ashes, keep his plants in health and free
from this destructive visitation. Every part of the house should
be thoroughly cleansed, floors and walls of 'the pit washed with hot
lime. You do not say, however, whether the plants are grown in pits
or frames.

Potatoes for IVKontevldeo {Quintero). — It would be impossible
for anyone to name a solitary variety as the best for your purpose.
Possibly you are right in assuming that early varieties may answer the
best in sandy soil because of the risk of drought more prejudicially
affecting the later crops. Even in this country the best varieties for
particular soils and localities can only be ascertained by experiment,
and so it must be in your case. Potatoes of American origin would be
likely to answer the best, such as Early Puritan, Early Eose, Beauty of
Hebron, Extra Early Vermont, and Charles Downing. Of good-sized
tubers (and it would be a mistake to plant small ones) half a ton will be
needed to plant an acre of land in rows 27 inches asunder and 12 to
15 inches in the lines. We do not know of any small work on Ferns
such as you appear to require. Possibly the Director of the Eoyal
Gardens, Kew, might be able to advise you on the subject, and we are
sure he would be willing to do so.

Melon Xeaves Diseased {Subscribe?’). — Yes, the Melon leaf
subjected to microscopic examination is “smothered” with a disease
caused by a fungus-like creature allied to that which produces finger-
and-toe in Turnips and clubroot in Cabbages. But it is higher specialised
than that fungus (Plasmodiophora brasslcas), for, though this curious
group of fungi, called Myxomycetes (to which finger-and-toe fungus
belongs), have the power of movement by changing their forms, like the
low microscopic animals called Amcebas, it possesses the power of
locomotion in a higher degree, and is capable of attacking any part of
the plant. The malignant bacteroidg causing disease in Melons,
Cucumbers, and Vegetable Marrows sometimes attack the stem only,
level with or within a foot of the ground, and the plants so attacked
collapse as suddenly as those infested at the roots. But it may leave
the roots and stem intact, fastening on the bines here and there, and
causing a swelling, with sometimes an exudation, which is due to the
ferment set up by the bacteria, and in other cases it may infest the
leaves only. In the latter case the leaves are usually thick in texture
and abnormally green and healthy in appearance, but this gives place to
a jaundiced hue, and transparent yellow pustules appear on the upper
surface. These soon shrink, forming specks, and the leaves turn rusty
and collapse, the midribs and footstalks remaining intact ; all the same,
the plants die, apparently healthy at the roots, in the stems, and even
bines. If the plants are examined they will be found to have no (or
only small and discoloured) nitrogenic nodosities on the roots, which is
a common case where fermenting materials are employed for bottom
heat, and we may assume that the bacteroidg which convert free nitrogen
into the form by which it can be assimilated by the plant are not pre^
sent. This is a vital point in proving that the presence and vitality
of the micro-organisms which give rise to the root-tubercles is the indis¬
pensable factor by which atmospheric nitrogen is taken up and elaborated,
It is still further necessary to show that the malignant bacteroids do not
attack the roots, stem, bines, footstalks, and midribs of the leaves because
they contain assimilated nitrogen. This is seen in the case under
notice by the micro-organisms concentrating their forces on the parts
where the free nitrogen enters the plant, which can only take place by
the parts above ground, and most freely by the leaves. On examining
the thinner tissue of the leaf, where the free nitrogen must enter most
and freest, we found the stomata swollen and closed, and the hairs
remarkably short, blunt, and stunted, whilst they were almost entirely
wanting on the thicker portions. In the interior of the latter the
bacteria were very abundant, but not so much so as to cause the sudden
collapse or decay of the affected part, for there were some perfectly healthy
cells, but most had been invaded, and we anticipate the drying up and
falling away of those parts of the leaves as if scorched, leaving the mid¬
ribs and footstalks intact. The plants, however, will positively refuse
to grow, though their roots and stems appear perfectly healthy, and they,
with their fruit, gradually wither. The fruit ripens prematurely, and
the seeds are for the most part very defective, if, indeed, they store
sufficient matter to effect germination. The seeds, however, are not in
any way affected by the bacterial affection, and the disease will not
show itself in the progeny. It is not by any means a new disease,
for it has been known in England more than a century, although

diseases of this nature have only received the attention of bacteriologists
within the last quarter of a century.

Bones Becoming- Putrid and Maggotty In Cbrysantbemum
Pots {W, A. M.). — This is a very common occurrence this season,
many plants being ruined by the broken bones employed as drainage to
the pots at the time of the final potting having become putrid, alive
with maggots, and emitting a stench. The bones, though perfectly dry
and in excellent condition when received, soon become decomposed
when moistened because they have undergone a process of fermentation
so as to render the gases they contain more readily available for the
plants. Such bones, however, should never be used for drainage, nor,
indeed, any bones, for all are liable to ferment and foster the develop¬
ment of maggots. It is different when the bones are mixed with the
soil ; then the producers of the maggots cannot get at them, and the
decomposition takes place much more gradually and they are likely to
prove advantageous. There is nothing like a clean drainage composed of
potsherds for Chrysanthemums. It is imperative to get rid of the bones,
clearing every particle away, cleansing the pots, and using crocks only for
drainage. The soil also that has not been occupied with roots should be
removed, using fresh loam intermixed with lime rubbish and charcoal,
as these, especially the old plaster, will have a tendency to sweeten the
soil, and it will further be freed of sourness by watering the plants
with tepid water in which 1 oz. of washing soda to 3 gallons has been
dissolved. The sodic solution will saponify the fatty matter present in
the soil, and this practice a large grower has found necessary to pursue
with plants that were almost killed by indiscreetly using bones for
drainage, which by the vendor were described as particularly strong.

Arrangement of Grounds and Orchards {J. H. jF). — The

small kitchen garden, 47 yards by 16 yards, would, as the ground is
heavy, be best occupied with half-standard Plums. They would come
into bearing soon and be profitable in a few years ; plant in the
autumn as soon as the leaves have fallen. The Czar, Belgian Purple,
Prince Englebert, Gisborne’s, and Victoria are suitable varieties, with
Crittenden and Bradley’s King Damsons. The spaces between the trees,
which may be 15 feet apart, could be utilised with vegetables, or be
temporarily planted with Strawberries or Gooseberries and other bush
fruits. The drying ground must of course remain as it is, also the 43 by
40 yards orchard, which, however, seems to have many vacant places,
especially on the west and north sides, but these, we presume, you intend
to fill up by the trees you name. The 80 by 38 yards meadow might be
planted with fruit trees, employing standards if you wish to have the
use of the grass ; but it is an undesirable practice unless the grass is
eaten by calves or sheep, though it may be mown only. Manure is given
after or before every crop, say not less than 20 tons of stable or farmyard
manure each year. Apples would perhaps answer under such circum¬
stances, provided the soil is well drained, along with the hardier Pears.
It would, however, be much the best broken up, properly prepared, and
planted in the autumn with bush trees, as the choicer varieties would
have a better chance. Mr. Gladstone. Duchess of Oldenburg, Worcester
Pearmain, King of the Pippins, Cox’s Orange Pippin, Gascoigne’s Scarlet
Seedling, and Baumann’s Eeinette are desirable dessert Apples ; and
for culinary, Keswick Codlin, Lord Grosvenor, Potts’ Seedling, Ecklin-
ville. Queen, Peasgood’s Nonesuch, New Hawthornden, Golden Noble,
Prince Bismarck, Lane’s Prince, and Bramley’s Seedling. They may
be planted 6 feet apart, but unless root-pruned they would require
thinning in about six years, leaving them 12 feet apart, or plant them
that distance at the commencement, and crop with vegetables between.
Of Pears, Beacon, Jargonelle, Williams’ Bon Chretien, Beurr^ d’Amanlis,
Durondeau, Beurr4 Superfin, Pitmaston Duchess, Marechal de Cour,
Emile d’Heyst, Doyenn4 du Comice, Beurrd d’ Anjou, and Josephine de
Malines. You may get shelter for these by planting the north side with
Damson trees, also in the hedgerows, or by them, so as to break the force
of winds. Of course trees can be planted in the 80 yards by 30 yards
meadow on the grass, and they may be either Apples, Pears, or Plums as
standards, and the hedgerows, except on the south, might be planted
with Damson trees for shelter. Of the plans for the flower garden. No. 3
is the most simple, and by enlarging the beds, most likely to meet your
requirements. There certainly is more accommodation for plant* in
No. 2, but Ferns are not likely to do any good on the south of the-house,
though other plants would do well on the rockwork. The beds in No. 1
are too near the house, where it is desirable to have grass next the gravel
instead of bare earth — an everlasting eyesore. We cannot submit plans.
Some good perennials are Adonis vernalis. Allium pedemontanum,
Alyssum saxatile compactum, Alstromeria psittacina, Anthericum lilias-
trum, Aquilegia glandulosa, Armeria plantaginea rosea, Aubrietia graeca
superba, Calochortus luteus oculatus. Campanula aggregata, C. dahurica,
C. glomerata alba, C. Van Houttei, Centaurea montana and var. alba,
Convallaria majalis, Corydalis eximia, Delphinium nudicaule, Dianthus
floribundus, Doronicum Clusi, Fuchsia pumila, Funkia lanceolata,
Gentiana verna. Geranium Endressi, Geum Fremonti, Hemerocallis
flava, Hepatica triloba vars., Hypericum calycinum. Iris germanica vars.,
I. orientalis. Lobelia fulgens, Lychnis dioica rubra plena, Mertensia
sibirica. Narcissus Emperor, N. Empress, N. incomparabilis, N, poeticus
ornatus and plenus, QSnothera Youngi, Pseonia arietina vars., Papaver
nudicaule vars.. Phlox amoena, P. subulata vars., Polemonium Kichardi,
Pulmonaria azurea. Ranunculus aconitifolius plenus, R. bullatus plenus,
Saxifraga Camposi, Sedum spectabile, Spirrea japonica, Trollius euro-
paeus, and Zauschneria californica. All are under, or not exceeding,
2 feet in height, and do not need stakes, but you should add Pinks,
double Primroses, Hellebores, Auriculas, Mimulus, Pansies, Violas, V iolets,
and single and double Pyrethrums, with bulbs to have a good display.

August 3, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

113

Plums Decaylngr QJames Hvoion). — The fruit is affected by Plum
rot or the monilia of fruit (Monilia fructigena). It is recommended to
spray the trees with Bordeaux mixture at a safe strength, say 2 ozs.
sulphate of copper dissolved in a vessel by itself, 2 ozs. quicklime, slaked
and formed into a thin whitewash, pouring this into the vessel containing
the copper SDlution through a hair sieve. Stir well, and dilute to
^2 gallons. Spray when the fruit is a quarter grown, again when half
grown, and just before commencing to ripen, yet prior to colouring. The
only thing that can be done now is to collect and burn all the affected
fruits and practise clean culture. Although there is a considerable
amount of flocculent matter on the pieces of branch, it is not fungal,
but proceeds from the scale, which appears to be allied to the Spindle-
tree scale (Chionaspis Euonymi). Syringe the trees, as soon as the fruit
is gathered, with softsoap, half a pound dissolved in a gallon of boiling
water, place in a 2-gallon stone bottle with a wineglassful of petroleum,
cork, and agitate violently for five minutes, so as to churn the contents,
theri pour in a gallon of boiling water or a little less, so as to allow of
mixing by shaking, pouring into a 4-gallon watering can, and add two
gallons of hot water, mixing well with the syringe. When cool enough
(100° Fahr.), syringe the trees, wetting every part with the emulsion, and
repeat, if necessary, in ten days. In the winter, use the spray treatment
according to the formula given in vol. i., page 2.51, of the Fruit Growers'
Guide, to which you refer.

M’ames of Fruits. — Notice. — Special attention is directed to the
following decision, the object of which is to discourage the growth of
inferior and promote the culture of superior varieties. In coiisequence
of the large number of loorthless Agifles and Pears sent to this office to
be named, it has been decided to name only sgyecimens and varieties of
approved merit, and to reject the inferior, which are not worth sending
or growing. The names and addresses of senders of fruit to be named
must in all cases be enclosed with the specimens, whether letters
referring to the fruit are sent by post or not. The names are not
necessarily required for publication, initials sufficing for that. Only six
specimens can be named at once, and any beyond that number cannot
be preserved. (J/. 31. C.). — Apple, Duchess of Oldenburg. (IF. J. B.').
— 2, Jolly Beggar ; 3, Bed Astrachan : 4, Sugar-loaf Pippin : 5, English
Codlin. (^B. IF.). — White Joanetting.

Names of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
(^South American). — An Argemone, most probably a sport from A.
mexicana. (77. IF.). — Harpalium rigidum. (F. B.'). — Calystegia
pubescens. (fAmateury — Oatananche bicolor. {J. F. Cranswicli). —
Rubus odoratus, a native of North America, introduced in 1700.
(^J. D.'). — 1, Saponaria officinalis ; 2, Scutellaria galericulata ; 3, Echium
violaceum ; 4, Rosa rugosa.

OOVENT GARDEN MARKET. — August 2nd.

Heavy supplies to hand with trade quiet.

FRUIT.

B.

d.

S.

d.

d.

9.

d.

Apples, half sieve . . . .

1

0 to 3

6

Grapes per lb .

1

0

to 2

0

„ Tasmanian, per case

0

0

0

0

Lemons, case . , . . . .

10

0

15

0

„ Nova Scotia, per

Oranges, per 100 ,.

4

0

9

0

barrel .

0

0

0

0

Peaches, per doz .

1

6

8

0

Cherries, half sieve . , . .

0

0

0

0

Plums, per half sieve

1

6

2

S

Filberts, per 100 lbs. , .

40

0

0

0

St. Michael Pines, each , .

2

0

5

0

Gooseberries, half sieve . .

1

6

2

0

Strawberries, per lb .

0

0

0

0

VEGETABLES.

B.

d.

s. d.

s.

d.

8.

d

Asparagus, per bundle . .

0

0

.0 0

0

Mustard and Oress, punnet

0

2

to 0

0

Beans, Kidney, per lb. . .

0

3

0

4

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

5

Beet, Red, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

2

0

3

0

Carrots, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . . . .

2

0

3

0

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

5

0

Celery, bundle .

1

0

1

3

1

0

1

6

Coleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Scorzonera, bundle .. ..

1

6

0

0

Cucumbers, dozen ,. ..

1

6

3

0

Seakale, per basket .. .,

0

0

0

0

Endive, dozen . .

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb .

0

3

0

0

Herbs, bunch .

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel .

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch .

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

6

Lettuce, dozen .. .. ..

0

9

1

0

0

0

6

Mushrooms, punnet .. ..

0

9

1

0

AVERAGE

WHOLESALE

PRIOES.— OUT FLOWERS.

Orchid Blooms in variety.

s.

d.

S.

d

8.

d.

s.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms ..

2

0 to 4

0

Mignonette, 12 bunches . .

3

0 to 6

0

Asters (French), per bunch

1

0

1

6

Myosotis, dozen bunches . .

1

6

3

0

Bouvardias, bunch .. ..

0

6

1

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

0

12

6

Calceolaria, dozen bunches

4

0

6

0

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

9

0

Carnations, 12 blooms

1

0

3

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

Carnations, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

bunches .

3

0

6

0

Chrysanthemums, dozen

Primula (double) 12 sprays

0

9

1

0

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

6

0

Cornflower, dozen bunches.

1

6

3

0

Roses (indoor), dozen

0

6

1

6

Eucharis, dozen .

3

0

4

0

„ Red, doz. bunches ..

4

0

8

0

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

0

Lilium lanoifolium, dozen

„ Yellow, dozen .. ..

o

0

4

0

blooms .

1

6

3

0

Stocks, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

Lilium longiflorum 12

Sweet Peas, doz. bimches..

3

0

6

0

blooms .

2

0

4

0

Sweet Sultan, per dozen

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

bunches .

3

0

4

0

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Tuberoses, 12 blooms , , . .

0

4

0

6

Marguerites, 12 bunches . .

2

0

4

0

PLANTS IN POTS.

8.

d.

S.

d.

s.

d.

a.

d.

Arbor Vit® (golden) dozen

6

0 to 12

0

Ivy Geraniums .

4

0

to 6

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Lilium lancifolium per doz.

12

0

18

0

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen 12

0

24

0

Balsams, per dozen . . . .

3

0

6

0

Lobelia, pei doz .

3

0

6

0

Campanula, per dozen

9

0

18

0

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

3

0

4

0

Dracmna terminalis, per

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . ,

6

0

12

0

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Mignonette, per doz .

4

0

6

0

Dracaena viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Euonvmus, var., dozen ..

6

0

18

0

Nasturtiums, per dozen ..

4

0

6

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

21

0

Palms, in var., each .. ..

1

0

15

0

Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

4

0

18

0

„ (specimens) .. ..

21

0

63

0

Ferns (small) per hundred

4

0

6

0

Pelargoniums, per dozen . .

6

0

12

0

Ficus elastica, each . . . .

1

6

7

6

„ scarlet, per dozen. .

3

0

6

0

Foliage plants, var., each..

2

0

10

0

Petunia, per dozen .. ..

6

0

9

0

Fuchsia, per dozen .. ..

5

0

9

0

„ single, in boxes..

1

G

3

0

Hydrangea, per dozen

12

0

24

0

Rhodanthe, per dozen . .

4

0

6

0

FARM ORCHARDS.

Now is the time to closely inspect farm orchards, to make
a critical survey of each tree, so as to form a reliable opinion
of its condition and requirements ; to decide if it is or is not
as healthy and as fruitful as it ought to be ; whether it is
capable of improvement under special treatment, or is worth¬
less and a mere waster of valuable space. Seven such special
inspections have we made recently, all of them highly important,
showing, as they did, how general is the ignorance of the mere
rudiments of fruit culture even in its most simple guise of
the grass farm orchard. This is all the more deplorable from
the fact that many of the trees of both Apples and Pears in
such orchards have heavy crops of fruit this season, very much
of which is so small as to be comparatively worthless for
market. “ The trees bear well, but the fruit is always small,”
said the owner of one of those orchards, and he went on to
suggest root-pruning as a remedy ! We had to explain that
root-pruning is only required to repress undue vigour of wood
growth ; that his trees, with their heads grown into thickets,
with no young wood growth now or for several years, with
the whole of the branches heavily laden with fruit and thickly
set with blossom buds, were in such a condition of exhaustion
that fine fruit was an impossibility. The remedy was simply
a judicious branch- thinning, with frequent and full doses of
liquid manure to the roots.

We have no doubt that our advice is applicable to most
old farm orchards throughout the land. It is a good sign that
such advice is asked for so frequently now, but we fear it is
not always applied so well as to do much good. It is so difficult
for beginners to grasp the significance of a full dose of liquid
manure. A mere surface wetting does no good ; the whole
of the soil about the whole of the roots must be dosed so
persistently that it is fully supplied with plant food. To make
sure of this it is poured over the whole of the surface under
the tree and for fully a yard outside the radius of its branches.
In some instances it is necessary to open a small trench a
spade deep right round the tree under the tips of the branches
and to make a few holes between this circular trench and the
stem ; then by repeatedly filling holes and trench with liquid
manure it spreads and sinks deep enough in the soil to reach
all the roots. There the orchard adjoined the homestead, from
whence the sewer ran into a large cesspool overflowing with
sewage in the lower part of the orchard. It had never occurred
to the worthy farmer to turn this rich source of fertility to
account, but he promised to do so at once and persistently. A
supply of such excellent liquid manure is forthcoming at most
farm homesteads ; at many it is justly regarded as invaluable
for grass land, and if enough cannot be spared for the trees

114

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

f August 3, 1893.

a splendid substitute can be bad by dissolving in 40 gallons of
water 1 lb. nitrate of soda, 1 lb. muriate of potasb, and 2 lbs.
superphosphate. This is an excellent fertiliser for all fruit
trees and bushes, as well as for those in old orchards, but there
especially do we recommend the combination of potash with
the other salts, because of the too probab’e exhaustion of the
soil near the trees.

At another farm, in an old orchard near the house an
attempt had been made to gradually clear off and replace the
old and much cankered trees with young ones. The soil was a
cold heavy clay, and though the young trees had made some
growth, it had cankered so badly that ihe restoration of the
orchard was practically a failure. Evidence of the remarkable
energy and ability of the farmer is afforded by the general
excellence of the whole of the other crops on the farm, notwith¬
standing the long drought. He was not content to fail in even
such a minor matter as the management of his orchard, and so
came his appeal for advice. As usual, the remedy was a very
simple matter ; he has to discard the diseased trees, to open
stations 6 feet square and 2 feet deep, to lay a row of 2 inch
drain pipes across the bottom, to fill the stations with sound
top-spit soil, using enough of it to allow for its gradually settle¬
ment to the common level, to connect the station drains with a
central main drain running right through the orchard, and to
plant strong healthy standard trees immediately after the leaf
falls in autumn. To make stations in clay without outlets for
water must lead to failure. The farmer’s puzzle was why the
orchard trees failed, while a dozen or more others planted at
the same time in a hedgerow had made healthy growth and
were bearing fruit. Upon going to the hedgerow we pointed
out to him that the surface of a field on one side of it was quite
3 feet lower than that on the other side, there was no possi¬
bility of accumulation of water about the roots, and they were
healthy thriving trees.

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

Never was there a season when nitrogenous manures played such
an important part as they have in this summer of trials and difficulties
arising from the great drought. The application of the mixture of
nitrate of soda, superphosphate, muriate of potash, and steamed bone
flour to pasture during the last week of February told even better than
usual, for the soil had been well soaked by the heavy rain of that wet
month, and there was plenty of rain then and at the beginning of
March to thoroughly dissolve and wash in the manure to the soil about
the roots of Grasses and Clovers. A full hay crop thus became a
certainty. It has repeatedly been so in other seasons when, although
there has been no long drought, drying March winds have not been
followed by April showers. Clearly, then, the lesson enforced once
more is to apply chemical to all grass land about the last week in
February. “ But,” we were once told, “ it could not be done with
snow upon the ground.” It could, and with this advantage, that as
the snow melts it carries the manure into the turf.

Nitrate of soda alone has also and is playing an important part
now. With frequent showers free growth is a certainty if only
1 or 2 cwt. per acre of chis splendid fertiliser is sown broadcast over
hungry pasture, among catch crops, roots, or any other crops requiring
a lift onwards. It is really lamentable to find so many graziers, with
ruin staring them in the face, doing nothing of the sort to help them¬
selves. Want, of means 1 Surely not, for it is entirely worth while for
a man to sacrifice something in order to obtain command of such a
means of giving food to his hungry cattle and hope to himself. It is
certain that wherever the soil has been well tilled in autumn and well
stored with fertility that crops are highly satisfactory now. Equally
clear is it that poverty of soil under the drought has led to a ruinous
crop failure. Corn harvest is in full swing very generally south of the
Trent. It is a month earlier than usual, and points to one of the finest
opportunities for thorough autumn tillage we have had for many years.
Let us try and turn it to full account.

FAEMING AT HOME AND ABROAD.

The following interesting note by Mr. Martin J. Sutton, of Kidmore
Grange, appears in the Times of July 31st. Mr. Sutton says : —

“ On my return home I find that very little improvement has taken
place in the situation since I left in the last week in June. It would
appear that, though the second cuttings of Clover leys will be improved,
the root crops have not been so much benefited by the heavy rains of
the last fortnight as might reasonably have been expected, while those

rains have done more harm than good to the corn. I should like to
say a word on the condition of affairs on the Continent. I started on
my usual journey abroad on the 26th of June, after travelling some
hundreds of miles the week previous through some of the best agricul¬
tural districts of England. I was thus able to compare the agricultural
conditions then obtaining in this country and those on the Continent.
I have since travelled some 3000 miles by road and rail inspecting the
crops in the north of France, Belgium, the Rhine Provinces, and
Southern Germany. It is true that in all these countries the first hay
crop was a comparative failure, and it seemed at one time that the
roots might also be short. But I was agreeably surprised to find there
the grass growing very rapidly for the second crop, and, excepting in
parts in the north of France, the roots looking very well indeed. Rye
this year appeared to me a specially heavy crop, and it has been mostly
seeured in splendid condition, I saw some very heavy pieces of Wheat,
and both Oats and Barley are far better than those to be met with on
this side of the Channel, Indeed, it was lamentable all the way between
Dover and London, travelling through the richest districts of Kent, to
contrast the miserable crops there growing with the abundance on the
other side. It is satisfactory to know that north of the Humber
agrieultural prospects, even in our own country, are just as good as
they are bad in the south, and unless a very wet hay and corn harvest
follows there and the Potato disease spreads rapidly and injures the
tubers, the Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Scotch farmers will have little
to complain of, as they will have good crops of hay to sell at famine
prices. Very different is the prospect for agriculturists in the western,
southern, and eastern districts of England, where hay, roots, and spring
corn are all seriously deficient, and Wheat cannot be an average crop.”

THE FIRST POCKETS OF HOPS.

The first pocket of new Kent Hops arrived in the Borough on
Monday last, and was sold at £25 per cwt. In sending this information,
Messrs. W, H. & H, Le May state that the effect of the rain that has
fallen during the last three weeks can now be seen. It has freshened
up all, but the Golding Hops in Mid and East Kent have benefited
the most. The bine is now full of sap, and the foliage a very dark
green. With fine hot dry weather from now till picking they would
estimate the Golding grounds to give a crop of 8 cwt. per acre. With
regard to the Fuggles on the heavy clays of the Weald of Kent and
Sussex, the rain came too late to increase the crop much. These Hops,
with the earlies, such as Prolifics, Hobb’s, and Seale’s, may produce an
average of 3 cwt. to 4 cwt. per acre, if the red spider that is running
very fast through most grounds does not prevent the development of the
Hop cones. Many experienced growers think there will not be a pocket
per acre picked in those grounds that are badly infested with red spider.
The market is very firm.

On Saturday Messrs. Edward Webb & Sons, Wordsley, received a
pocket of new Worcester Hops, which passed the public scales at
Worcester on Friday, which is the earliest date on record. It was
grown by Mr. H. T. Taylor, Showle Court, Ledbury. The pocket was
resold to Mr. W. Butler, Crown Brewery, Birmingham. The quality
of the year’s crop is likely to be good, but a light yield is expected.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamdex Square, London.

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

Date.

9 A.M.

In the Day.

Rain,

1893.

July.

1 Barometer

1 at 32°, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday . .

23

30T90

65-7

55-8

S.

62-0

73-3

48-9

108-9

43-0

0-391

Monday . .

24

29-911

66-3

63-6

s.w.

62-2

75 6

59-0

117-1

57-4

—

Tuesday . ,

25

29-873

65-2

56-9

w.

62-7

73-7

57-4

123-7

53-9

—

Wednesday

26

29-838

65-0

58-7

s.w.

62-2

71-0

55-9

1.0-2

52-9

0-020

Thursday . .

27

30-161

61-8

54-4

N.E.

62 7

72-3

54-4

119-8

50-4

—

Friday

28

30-305

63-4

55-1

N.E.

62-3

71-3

47-3

104-8

43-2

—

Saturday . .

29

30-136

64-9

59-9

S.W.

62-6

70-8

58-8

96-7

55-2

0-072

30-059

64-6

57-8

62-4

72-6

54-5

113-0

50-9

0-483

REMARKS.

23rd.— Generally sunny in the morning and cloudy in the afternoon ; rain after 6 P.M.
and heavy rain from 9 r.M. to 11 P.M.

24th. — Rainy till 6 A.M., and overcast till 11 A.M.. bright and sunny after.

25th. — Generally sunny throughout the day ; cloudy with spots of rain in the evening.

26th. — Bright early ; showery with thunder from 8.30 a.m. to 10 A.M., then generally
sunny till 3 P.M. and variable after, with frequent thunder and occasional
rain.

27th. — Fine and generally sunny, but occasionally overcast in the afternoon.

28th. — Bright early, but very calm, and the sun became gradually obscured by the
accumulation of smoke ; cloudy in the afternoon and overcast with spots of rain
in the evening.

29th. — Occasional sunshine in the morning, but generally overcast ; rain at 0.30 P.M.,
and slight showers later.

Temperature very similar to that of the previous week and of the average. Very

little rain except on the 23rd. — G. J. SYMON6.

August 10, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

115

There are various ways of spending Bank Holiday, and it will
be conceded that those persons who endeavour to combine
pleasure with instruction on holiday occasions spend the time at
their disposal not unwisely. When we remember the methods that
were indulged in by the community during periods of recreation
some half a century ago and compare them with those in vogue now,
we cannot fail to recognise an advance in the right direction in the
habits of the people. The change has been brought about in part
by the better system of education that is now well established, and
in part — and a very large part too— by the development of railways
and the temptations of their managers to secure as large a share as
possible of the loose cash of the million. Inducements to travel
have been offered till they seem to have become irresistible, and
cities and towns become perceptibly emptied by the exodus of
their inhabitants. Some, it is true, indeed many thousands, stop
short at the parks and commons that have been provided or
preserved near populous centres, and this proves the value and
usefulness of those large, enjoyable, and healthy places of popular
resort. Thousands more go farther afield and have a veritable
“ day in the country ” or at the seaside. Then efforts are being
made in semi-rural districts to attract the people to some pleasant
centre, such as a gentleman’s park, where a flower show and an
exhibition of cottage garden and allotment produce is held and
modes of healthy enjoyment provided.

There is a greater disposition now than ever existed before to
afford encouragement to the working population to derive pleasure
and profit from small gardens and allotments, and, happily, greater
alacrity on the part of workers to accept it. We read in a daily
paper that the excellent institution known as the Finchley Allot¬
ment Holders’ Society contrived on Monday last to combine business
with pleasure, and it succeeded admirably. It took advantage of
Bank Holiday to show what it could do in the cultivation of fruit,
flowers, and vegetables. There are 345 allotment holders in the
Seciety, and they contributed nearly 450 exhibits. The Finchley
Society is an example of what may be done throughout the country.
It is beyond question that the cultivators of allotments, small
holdings, and cottage gardens may put into their own pockets a
great amount of money that is now spent upon importations from
abroad. Under a fully developed system the cultivation of allot¬
ments and small holdings would go far to arrest or counterbalance
the decline which is observable in several branches of what is still
the chief national industry. The existence of this Society of
Allotment Holders at Finchley also reminds us that the English
petty cultivator may profit by the example of his French neigh¬
bours. In a recent report, drawn up at the British Embassy in
Paris and lately published by the Foreign Office, an interesting
account is given of the unions which the small farmers of France
have formed among themselves for the purpose of buying the best
seeds, manures, and implements at the lowest prices, and of gelling
their surplus produce on the most favourable terms.

Another example of spending Bank Holiday on similar lines
was afforded by the Show of the Beddington, Carshalton, and
Walliugton Horticultural Society that is established to promote
interest and efficiency in cottage gardening and allotment culture
in a district having an area of about four square miles. Mr. A. H.
Smee, C.C., is a leader in this work, and takes active personal

No. 685. — VoL. XXVII., Third Sekies.

interest in the welfare of the Society. At this last Bank Holiday
Show he provided a class at once novel and useful, and which also
proved an unqualified success. It may be fittingly termed a
Sunday dinner class for a working man’s family. The idea
“caught on,” and it is impossible to speak too highly of the
results. It is not easy to conceive the effect of some thirty dinners
arranged side by side, all giving evidence of thought, taste, and
culinary skill. As the entries came in the question of judges
became a matter of concern. It is thought that the views of high
class experts, such as club chefs, might be different from those
accustomed to dinners of this character. It was eventually decided
that one of the County Council lecturers on cookery should, in
conjunction with a gentleman who during many years had practical
experience of a working gardener’s fare, and who also well knows
what is good in advanced cookery, award the prizes. Having
regard to the novelty, excellence, and altogether satisfactory
character of this dinner show, we asked Mr. Edward Luckhurst
to describe the exhibits in the belief that his description would
be of interest to the majority of our readers, and he obligingly
complied as follows : —

“ At the annual Show of the Society above mentioned, held at
Carshalton Park on August Bank Holiday, a novel feature was
introduced in the guise of a competition open to the wives and
daughters of all subscribers and members for the best dinner to be
produced at a cost not exceeding 2s ; the dinner to consist of
meat and at least two distinct kinds of vegetables, and be sufficient
for a man, his wife, and three children, the value of each article
to be clearly stated. This was proposed by A. H. Smee, Esq., who
with his usual liberality gave £5 to be awarded in four prizes of £2,
£1 lOs., £1, and 10s., to which, owing to the hearty response
made to this offer, and the evident utility of the competition, Mr.
Smee added three other prizes of 7s. 6d. each.

“ How popular this new departure is was shown by the thirty-
two entries, filling the central table of a large tent. So good were
most of the dinners that the work of judging was anything but a
light matter. To visitors the Show proved an irresistible attrac¬
tion, the tent being thronged all the afternoon, and discussion ran
high over the merits of the exhibits,

“ As was to be expected this class showed praiseworthy traits of
humble life and character. How much time, thought and care had
been devoted to the work, how thoroughly the competitors had
thrown themselves into it, and how eagerly results were looked
forward to, could probably hardly be grasped by even such an
appreciative throng as made access to the table most difficult.
One point about which there was an unmistakeable concensus of
opinion was that the best dinner gained the first prize ; but “ how
Mrs. Stevens did it for the money” was evidently a puzzle.
Mrs, Stevens is the thrifty wife of the worthy head gardener
to E, G. Coles, Esq., The Lodge, Carshalton, who himself took
high honours as first for a collection of vegetables, first for a
collection of fruits, and several other leading prizes in the Show.
Mrs. Stevens’ dinner consisted of a well cooked joint of pressed
beef, a tureen of soup made in cooking the beef, which was
temptingly glazed and garnished with Beetroot and Parsley ; two
equally well cooked dishes of Runner Beans and Potatoes, a Plum
tart, and custard with bread comprised the rest of this appetising
meal, which was alike admirably selected, cooked, and placed on
the table. The cost was precisely 2s, To go into details the
prices given were soup flavouring Id., beef 9d., Beet, Parsley
and Glaze l^d.. Beans 3d., Potatoes 2d., Bread Id., Plum tart 4d,,
and custard l^d. The whole of the judging was done by pointing ;
the points awarded to the first prize being 54, to the second 51
to the third prize 47, and to the fourth prize 4G, showing plainly
how close the competition was. The maximum points allowed
amounted to 98 : soup 8, fish 8, stews 10, meat or puddings 10,
vegetables 12, sweets (5, pastry 6, savory or cheese 6, bread 4,
salad 4, sufficiency G, cost G, skill in preparation 12. It will be

No. 2341.— VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

116

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ i.ugust 10, 1893

understood that several of the points were provisional, and not
touched at all. No two dinners were alike, and the main details are
given in case they may be suggestive to others, as they may wish
to add an interesting feature to cottage garden shows.

“ Good management as well as good cooking had its due influence
upon the Judges’ decision, and Mrs. Stevens’ admirable manage¬
ment certainly exemplified true economy, not only in the cooking
and serving of the food, but in the purchase of it. Mr. Smee is
to be congratulated upon his successful innovation, and upon the
admirable illustration of domestic economy which this new feature
in exhibiting affords.”

Another special feature set forth in the schedule was for a
collection of vegetables in nine distinct kinds, which were to
include a selection from the following : — Nine tubers of Potatoes,
three Cauliflowers, nine Onions, thirty-six pods of Peas, twenty-
four pods of Broad Beans, six Carrots, three Marrows, fifty
Kidney Beans, three Cabbages, six Parsnips, and six Turnips, Parsley
being admissible for furnishing. This class was rendered the more
interesting by the fact that it was open to all amateurs, cottagers,
and professional gardeners in the district. The competition was
remarkably keen, and the work of the Judges thus rendered
unusually difficult. The maximum number of points which could
be gained was 73, and the winner of the first prize, Mr. J. H.
Stevens, was adjudged 54 or 18j below the maximum, which,
considering the season, was very good. It will doubtless be inter¬
esting to readers to know with what produce Mr. Stevens gained
his position, and the number of points he was awarded for each
kind, and a list is appended. Potatoes 6 (out of 10), Peas 6,
Scarlet Runner Beans 5, Cooking Cabbages 6, Cauliflowers
1^, Onions 6, Turnips 6, Carrots 7, Parsnips 5 (the standard
of all these being 8 points) which gives an aggregate of 54|^. We
have said the competition was keen. Mr. J. Slater, who was awarded
the second prize, reached 54 points ; Mr. Wm. Newton third, 53 ,
and Mr. Hy. Schoolbridge fourth, 51 J. It was a popular class, and
gardeners won all the prizes but the third. Mr. Newton was a
working builder last year but is developing into something else.
After hearing lectures on horticulture he commenced the erection
of glass structures. They were completed this spring, and during
the present summer he has grown and sold 12,000 Cucumbers
and 2 tons of Tomatoes. He is further “ making land pay,” not
under glass though it costs him £8 an acre in rent and taxes.
The improvement in garden and allotment culture in the district
is remarkable, a comparison with the pointing of every crop on
plots in competition for prizes last year and this showing an
average increase of 40 per cent, during the present season of
drought, as ascertained by Mr. Smee. This is the most effectual,
practical and conclusive test of cultural knowledge — appraising
the crops for prizes, and not 1 per cent, of the men who learn
the most and work the best could be induced to sit for exami¬
nation in a room and attempt answering a series of questions
on paper.

In connection with the Show under notice, at which some
300 prizes were awarded, including a silver medal to Mr. G. W.
Cummins, a Conference on gardening was held. E. J. Halsey, Esq.,
Chairman of the Surrey County Council, presided, and in an
admirable speech promised that all possible help and encourage¬
ment should be afforded to those workers who wished to improve
their position by their own efforts, and gain something in addition
to their wages, in order that they might feel themselves more
independent and happier in their homes. Mr. J. Wright also gave
an address with “ object lessons,” showing the effects of right and
wrong methods in the production of vegetables, fruit, and flowers.
The tent would not hold half the people. The sides were removed,
and the packed audience, inside and out, manifested the closest
interest in the proceedings. Pleasure was undoubtedly combined
with instruction in the spending of Bank Holiday in Carshalton
Park, and doubtless many other places in the kingdom on that
bright and beautiful day.

PEACH-GROWING FOR MARKET.

Round London there appears to be a tendency for market
growers to confine their attention to the cultivation of one or at
the most two kinds of fruit or “fruit vegetables.” Some grow
nothing but Cucumbers, others Cucumbers and Tomatoes, a few
grow Grapes and Tomatoes on a very large scale, and instances
have also come under my notice of Peaches and Nectarines being
the fruit principally grown. Undoubtedly it is a great mistake to
attempt the cultivation of a variety of crops, especially if it ends
in none of them being done well, and beginners in the neighbour¬
hood of the Metropolis ought certainly to be warned in time. The
case, however, with market growers starting in the provinces is
different and greater variety is called for. According to my experi¬
ence, provincial towns are far from being well supplied with
Peaches and Nectarines. There seems to be a good demand for all
but the very earliest fruit. Last June the prices obtained for good
average fruit from a provincial fruiterer was 25 per cent, better
than that allowed by a leading salesman in Covent Garden, and
judging from the published returns the improvement has been
well sustained. On June 19th a consignment of six dozen selected
Peaches realised £3 12i. after carriage was paid, commission not
being charged, and that I think very good for a country town.
This year Peaches and Nectarines were in greater demand than
usual during the latter part of June and the first fortnight in July
(owing to the scarcity of high-class Strawberries), telegrams for
more to be sent on being frequent. I like telegrams to be flying
about, as that means a brisk trade and good prices.

On page 515, last volume, I briefly alluded to a class of 14 feet
wide span-roofed houses that answered well for Tomatoes and
Chrysanthemums. Such houses are very suitable for Peach and
Nectarine culture. Large quantities of fruit are not desired
at one time, and a succession is obtained by growing early
and late varieties in one house. For instance, I commenced
gathering Early^ Alexander during the first week in May,
Hale’s Early, A Bee, Crimson Galande, Bellegarde, Dymond,
Barrington, Sea Eagle, and Walburton Admirable forming a
good natural succession, the two last-named not yet being
marketed. Good sized highly coloured fruits are most in demand.
Waterloo and Early Alexander, both very showy varieties, with
very little to choose between them, are the best early Peaches,
but, unfortunately, addicted to bud dropping. Hale’s Early,
also of American origin, is from a week to ten days later, but
far more reliable, while the fruits are large and well coloured.
All three are bad travellers and keepers,^ and must certainly
be marketed before they are fully ripe. A Bee is a really good
second early variety ; fruits large, of good colour if properly
exposed, and fairly firm when ripe ; quality first-rate. In Crimson
Galande we have the heau ideal market Peach. It is of free,
yet very productive, habit of growth, a sure setter, and the fruits,
without being greatly exposed, colour grandly. Perhaps the best
midseason market Peach, and good also for private gardens. Bar¬
rington should be included by growers who wish to keep up a long
succession. The tree is a healthy grower, and good bearer of
fairly large and well-coloured fruits which travel and keep well.
Princess of Wales, unfortunately, does not colour well, otherwise
it is a fine easily grown Peach. Sea Eagle possesses a fine con¬
stitution, sets freely, and the fruits, if properly thinned, attain an
extra large size, colouring grandly, and keeping longer than most
varieties. I have frequently obtained 18s. per dozen for good
samples of Sea Eagle in August, and, all things considered, this is
one of the very best that a market grower can cultivate, either
under glass or in the open air. Walburton Admirable ripens still
later and attains a large size, but cannot be depended upon to
colour well. It may not have occurred to many market growers to
give Salwey a trial, but this “ turnipy ” Peach sometimes pays
remarkably well. I have known instances of SOs. per dozen being
given for fruits from an open wall, but they were sold during the
first fortnight in November. In an unheated house this variety
can sometimes be kept till November, and medium-sized, highly
coloured fruit will fetch not less than ISs. per dozen in Covent
Garden Market. Salwey is a sure bearer, but not much must be
said in favour of its eating qualities.

Nectarines do not pay so well as Peaches, and in addition are
not so easily grown. Being smooth skinned the fruits are more
liable to be disfigured by insect pests and scorching. There is a
demand for them, but nothing like that for Peaches, and I find one
tree of Nectarines to four of Peaches a fair proportion for market
culture. As a rule Nectarines are not large enough to please
buyers, and if colour is lacking the prices will fall accordingly. The
new Early Rivers promises to meet a long-felt want — viz., a
Nectarine that will ripen at much the same time as the earliest
Peaches under similar treatment. It is also a fine variety and
colours as well, if not better, than Lord Napier. The latter was

Anpnst 10, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

117

hitherto the best early Nectarine, and till Early Kivers can be had
in quantity should be planted the most freely. I have never
obtained more than 9s. per dozen for Lord Napier, the prices
gradually coming down 4s. per dozen for fairly good samples. I
do not advise market growers to plant the richly flavoured Pine¬
apple and Pitmaston Orange, but they may grow Stanwick Elruge
to succeed Lord Napier, this being an easily grown, heavy- crop¬
ping, highly coloured variety. Hardwicke is also large and free-
bearing and colours well, being better for market purposes than
the much better known Elruge from which it was raised. If a late
variety is desired plant Victoria. The variety is a great cropper,
rendering free thinning necessary, and the fruits must be well
exposed to increase their size and develop the best colour. —
Market Grower.

(To be continued.)

HARDY FLOWER NOTES.

In a season such as this has been, we feel inclined to withdraw
the unkindly expressions which, openly and mentally, we have
applied to our British climate. The brief period of drought we
have had here (near Dumfries), and which has left its mark in
slight degree, has been broken, and welcome rain bas given
refreshment to gardens and gardeners alike. As we wander into
the garden to work among its inmates or to study afresh the
beauty of their forms and hues, they seem to stand “ smiling by ”
with a blithe welcome for their admiring owner, who has in these
bright blooms a reward for much forethought and care. The
matchless Rose, the wax-like Lily (which will perhaps forgive the
comparison of the texture of its petals to the work of the bee) ;
and many others, stately and lowly, join in this welcome, and
he is indeed callous whose heart does not respond with joy to their
greeting.

These flowers of summer are so numerous and so beautiful that
selection is always invidious and generally unsatisfactory ; but
the many Meadow Sweets or Spirasas, some past and some at the
time of writing still in flower, by their feathery beauty have
pressing claims for notice, as they rise above other border plants,
or form neat tufts covered with their graceful flowers. Among
these Meadow Sweets or Dropworts there is none more graceful
that the noble Spir^a Aruncus, the Goat’s Beard, with its fine
panicle of plume-like flowers. Even more graceful, and in some
positions more desirable on account of its dwarfer habit, is
S. astilboides, the Astilbe-like Meadow Sweet, a native of Japan,
which is rapidly becoming popular both for border and forcing
purposes. A newer variety, known as S. astilboides floribunda, I
have not met with, but if superior to the type it will certainly be
an invaluable plant. I have at present in the room in which I
write a plant of the typical species in full flower which was lifted
and potted, not being forced in any way. The only fault it possesses
for the house is that its fragrance is towards evening rather over¬
powering. There is a great wealth of material among the Meadow
Sweets, and they are worthy of more extended cultivation in their
various forms, herbaceous and shrubby, and in their various
colours ; although, personally, I prefer the white and creamy shades
to the pink or red colours of some.

The various Thistle-like plants of our gardens are always
appreciated by all who see them. The Eryngiums, with their
steel-blue or ivory heads and stems, are justly becoming increasingly
popular, and this favour is also being extended to the various
Echinops or Globe Thistles. A fine plant of E. commutatus,
the Changeable Globe Thistle, has attracted much attention here.
Tusser tell us that —

“ If Thistles so growing prove lusty and long,

It signifieth land to be hearty and strong.”

If we are to take that old writer to be an infallible authority
my garden must be of soil “ hearty and strong.” The contrary is,
however, the case, and I have little doubt that the height of 7 feet
which E. commutatus has attained here is due to the plant being
a seedling and thus full of vigour. The Changeable Globe Thistle
is a native of Austria and other parts of Europe, and was introduced
in 1817. It is classed as a perennial, but many of the Echinops in
our gardens are either not true perennials or are short-lived, and it
is well to have a young plant in store to replace a lost one. Very
stately is, as may be supposed, this fine plant, with its spiny
pinnatifid leaves, rough above and downy beneath, and its round,
whitish balls of flower.

In sharp contrast to the stateliness and rugged beauty of the
Echinops is the grace and elegance of the Feather Grass (Stipa
pennata), which has for a time been in full beauty. Here is no
glittering beauty, no Paeony-like bloom of striking colour, no
massive grandeur, but instead a plant of tenderest grace. Little
wonder was it that in olden times, as Gerard tells us, ladies wore

the plumes of this Grass as feathers, and, if we no longer see it
thus in use, its elegance commends it as a garden plant. Even
before it flowers the tussock of arching grass is very beautiful, and
when the blooms appear, and while they last, they are full of
attraction, moving as they do with the lightest breath of air. When
winds are fierce they toss and pirouette, when softer gales are
blowing they float lightly to and fro, and when hardly a breath is
to be felt they move gently with the slightest current, tbeir
gossamer-like lightness making them the sport of the lightest
breathings. We want graceful as well as showy plants in our
gardens, and these hardy Grasses are not nearly enough grown.

Not the least pleasant time in the garden is the evening, when
some flowers seem to shine with a softer and gentler beauty. It
is true that some have closed their petals, desiring not the cool
dew, or seeking to screen themselves from the flying moths in
search of food. It is also true that then the sun no longer shines
through the petals of the Poppy, giving it the appearance of some
piece of stained glass taken from some cathedral where the glass
Stainer’s art is shown in perfection ; but, on the other hand, some
flowers, such as the Evening Primroses, which look dowdy in the
sunlight, come into beauty as the shades of evening creep along.
Then it is that the white or golden cups of the Glnotheras seem
beautiful. As Bernard Barton says —

“ I love at such an hour to mark

Tbeir beauty greet the night breeze chill.”

And such flowers as these may give much delight to those whom
business calls from home by day, and whose evenings in the garden
might be made more enjoyable by the beauty of the delightful
Oil. marginata, with its white cups ; of the pretty (E. taraxacifolia,
with its Dandelion-like leaves and white flowers changing to
crimson ; or even by the more common QE. biennis, no mean plant,
with stately habit and soft golden flowers. Those, too, who can
enjoy their gardens by day need not confine themselves to the
night-blooming species, but will find in Oil. Youngi and QE. Fraseri
two plants which will give much pleasure.

One of the charms of the garden of hardy flowers is its cosmo¬
politan character. Here some native plant grows side by side with
one from the steppes of Siberia ; there a Greek Crocus reposes
under a carpet of Spanish Stonecrop ; here, again, a plant from
the Himalayas is cheek by jowl with one from the South American
Andes. We read much of triple alliances, but the garden would
almost exhaust the vocabulary to describe the characters and
multiplicity of its friendly leagues. I fancy, however, that most
of us must confess that we may have some “ respect of persons ” —
or plants — in our likings, and that we may have a preference for
flowers from some particular portion of this globe of ours. I, for
one, must confess to a desire to possess more of the flowers which,
in the newer Britain of the Antipodes, for long displayed to the
Maori the charms of Nature, and now give the colonist some
compensation for those he left behind. Thus it is that the New
Zealand Veronicas are specially attractive to me, and glad am I
that their real beauty only enhances their attractions. Several of
them are quite hardy on rockwork here, and, although well known,
yet worthy of repeated notice is Y. Traversi, which in good soil will
form great bushes of evergreen glossy foliage, clothed in summer
with countless spikes of pretty white flowers with purple anthers.
Beautiful as it is thus, the prettiest plant I have ever seen is one
on the top of a dryish rockery here, where it is somewhat stunted
in growth, with the effect of increasing the quantity of flowers and
its neatness of habit. It has been very beautiful, forming a bush
only 18 inches in height and 2^ feet across, and coming into flower
before an “ Alpine Rose ” (Rhododendron ferrugineum), which is
close to it, had passed out of flower. The two formed a pleasing
picture. Very fine, too, has been V. speciosa, with its beautiful
glossy leaves and its spikes of purple blue. This is on the top of
a rockery, but protected by a wall from the north wind — a needful
precaution for this species, which is not nearly so hardy as
Travers’s Veronica. Others, such as the curious V. salicornioides,
V. Colensoi glauca, or V. Lyalli, are grown here, and I hope gradu¬
ally to add to my collection of hardy sorts. 'Thus on border or
rockery does summer yield her floral charms — rich in beauty,
grandeur, grace, or in tenderest associations, and all things that
endear them to our hearts. — S. Arnott.

SCARLET RUNNER BEANS NOT SETTING.

The failure of Scarlet Runners to produce pods has been
attracting my notice for some time, and I hove read^ all that your
correspondents have written on page 106, about which I offer the
following criticisms. There does not appear to be anything
abnormal about the form of the flower this year. The double
coil at the point of the keel is quite usual, so is the sheath, within

118

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 10, 1893.

Scarlet Runner is, after all, not derived from Pbaseolus multi-
florus, but from Phaseolus vulgaris, the Dwarf or FrenchBean. That
the old Case Knife, the Butter, and the climbing white or pale
flowered section of the French, are come from Phaseolus vulgaris
can hardly be doubted, but the scarlet and white Dutch Runner
section is absolutely differelit in every respect ; the plants never
assume a dwarf form, and always have fleshy or tuberous roots,
which practically make them perennial. But the question opened up
under the above heading has wider range than is found in its
present limitations. The matter applies to all flowers, more or less
— to the question as to how far insect agency is absolutely essential
to pollenation or floral fertility, or how far, on the other hand,
Nature performs her functions in flowers without external aid.
We have here, whether it be limited to the consideration of the
fertilisation of Runner Bean flowers only, or to the wider one of
the actual necessity for insect agency in relation to flowers gene¬
rally, a subject into which the Scientific Committee of the Royal
Horticultural Society may well dip with perhaps much greater
advantage to horticulture than is at present made evident from
the deliberations of that distinguished body.

I do not think that insect agency is absolutely essential to the
fertilisation of Bean flowers, because I think the actual polleii-
ation has taken place before the flowers are expanded. It is
certainly the case with Peas, and I think it is the case with most
pod-bearing plants. Anyone who dissects a Bean flower will find
that it is practically impossible for a bee or other similar insect to
assist pollenation in any way, and as the bees, if carefully watched,
are found to avoid all partially expanded blooms, and to operate on
those fully open, the inference is that they are too late to assist in
fertilisation.

Looking over literally hundreds of allotments in different parts
of Surrey in almost every one of which Runner Beans were grow¬
ing well, I invariably found a fine well set crop. This I attri¬
buted to the cooler atmosphere and active air found in open
fields as compared with what is found in hot enclosed gardens.
C-reat heat, and especially a dry temperature, may be, indeed I
think must be, productive of barrenness, and especially so when
aided by drought at the roots. Thus we invariably find that the
earliest flowers on Runner Beans set well, also the later ones
when the temperature is lower, indeed the flowers never set so freely
as towards the end of August and early in September. It is
during exceptional hot dry weather that barrenness results ; but the
trouble is all over now and there is a plentiful setting going on. I
find this to be the case in a very hot dry town yard with my
Runner Beans. — A. Dean.

which anthers and stigma are contained, the point of the stigma
protruding slightly, and being pushed out more on the slightest
pressure from above, the anthers remaining just visible at the
mouth of the opening. Whether pollen is unusually deficient I
cannot say. The flowers can hardly be fertilised by bees, as it is
their habit in visiting these flowers to puncture the lower side of
the calyx, if not already done ; and I observe that they proceed at
once to this aperture as if by instinct. Neither hive bees nor
humble bees nor wasps are below the average in quantity this year.
All of these visit the flowers, and all extract the honey in the same
way ; I believe they do so every year. I know several other
flowers which they invariably treat so. My gardener believed
that the unusual abundance of these insects, and their habit of
lacerating the base of the calyx, and so damaging the attachment
of the embryo pod, was the cause of failure ; but I do not agree
to this. I tried brushing a quantity of marked flowers with a
camel-hair pencil, and my gardener tied up in muslin a quantity
more whilst still in bud, but the result did not answer our expec¬
tation. About the same proportion, and no more (say 10 per cent.),
set pods. Those within the muslin may have been self -fertilised ;
but I find in nearly all the flowers within the sheath of the keel
thrips, small coleoptera, and mites sufficient to fertilise them.
The Scarlet Runners in my garden have at no time of their
growth suffered from drought, and are more luxuriant than usual.
I think in this fact we may perhaps have a clue to the cause of
failure. It is generally believed that too luxuriant growth is a
cause of sterility both in the animal and vegetable creation. Virgil
warns farmers against it, both as regards corn and live stock ; and
the only point on which all your correspondents agree is that the
appearance of the plants this year is unusually healthy and
luxuriant. — C. Wolley Dod, Edge Hall, Malpus.

P.S. — On dissecting the flowers and examining them with a
quarter-inch lens I find that they abound with thrips and red
spider. These pests, which have been everywhere abundant
through the spring and summer, find a comfortable home within
the twisted sheath of the keel which encloses the vital organs of
the flower. They worry and render abortive those parts, and are
perhaps a more probable cause of the failure complained of than
the luxuriance of growth as suggested above. The prevalent wet
weather will probably lessen the plague, and we shall get more
beans. — C. W. D.

I BEG to correct one word in the latter portion of my note in
last week’s issue, page 106. It runs thus, “ The disturbance of the
reproductive organs is the cause of failure.” For “ disturbance ”
read non-disturbance of the pollen grains ; nor is it either dis¬
tributed by insects from flower to flower to ensure the desired
effect. Whilst jotting this correction I came across some of
Professor H. Muller’s observation on the fertilisation of Phaseolus
coccineus, Lam.'). He says, the hive bee and other small bees
which are unable to press the carina down obtain the honey by
taking advantage of holes which a humble bee (I suppose Bombus
terrestris, L.) bites through the calyx. More powerful bees, with
sufficiently long proboscides, alight on the left ala, and in forcing
the proboscis down into the flower bring its base in contact with
the stigma. Now, when the ala and the carina (which is united
to them) are further depressed, there emerges from the tubular
apex of the carina, which is coiled nearly into two complete
whorls, the similarly coiled style, and it emerges in such a way
that its stigma points downwards and towards the left, and its
pollen covered hairs come in contact with the base of the insect’s
proboscis, dusting it with fresh pollen. In this manner cross-
fertilisation is insured, and self-fertilisation prevented in case of
insect visits. In absence of insects self-fertilisation cannot occur,
since the stigma protrudes from the carina, while the pollen is
enclosed within it.

The similar mode of fertilisation in the Kidney Bean (Phaseolus
vulgaris, L.) was described ten years earlier by Darwin, who showed
by experiment that insect visits are essential for the fertilisation of
this plant. Plants covered with fine net remained completely
barren, unless the action of bees were artificially imitated. When
Darwin repeated the experiment on a larger scale a few flowers on
some specimens bore fruit. Small insects (thrips) had presumably
gained access to these. Dr. Ogle also gives a description of the
floral mechanism in P. vulgaris (French Bean), and P. coccinea
(Scarlet Runner). Of the flowers which Dr. Ogle protected from
bees by means of a gauze net no single one bore fruit. —
J. D., Duffryn, S. Wales.

The Fertilisation of Runner Bean Flowers.
Whilst I generally agree with Mr. Abbey in his conclusions as
to the non-u«es of insects in relation to the fertilisation of Bean
flowers, I differ from him entirely in his assertion that the

HARDY PERENNIALS FOR CUTTING.

No garden can be considered complete without a serviceable
border of hardy perennials for cutting. Although there is never
at any time a general display, except, perhaps, when Squills,
Narcissi, and other spring-flowering bulbs are in bloom, something
of interest may be had continuously, and by judicious selection it
is possible to have at all times a good supply of cut flowers.
Flowers in early spring are especially appreciated, since consider¬
able time must elapse before a general display of summer-blooming
annuals, like Sweet Peas, Stocks, Poppies, and Asters may be had.
New or rare kinds are not always satisfactory to the amateur, but
there are many of free and easy growth which can be thoroughly
recommended.

Lenten Roses, mostly hybrids or forms of Helleborus orientalis,
are among the earliest flowers. These are bowl-shaped, white,
sometimes shaded with green or reddish purple, and often beauti¬
fully spotted. They are borne on leafy stems, and are very
serviceable flowers to cut, keeping well for a long time. The best
time to plant or to divide the clumps is in the autumn. Some of
the best hybrids are Frau Irene Heinemann, Hofgarten Inspector
Hartweg, and Willby Schmidt. The Christmas Rose (H. niger)
blooms in southern and eastern Europe during the winter, and
imported roots are frequently offered in America. It would be
well to note here that it is not a very satisfactory hardy plant, at
least in the New England States. Being disposed to bloom on the
occurrence of a mild spell, it is sure to be cut down by the
succeeding sharp frosts. Spring frosts usually injure the young
leaves, and consequently it is rarely in a very thrifty condition
in that part of America.

The numerous species and varieties of Narcissus furnish some
of the most beautiful spring flowers useful for cutting. While
many of the newer and rarer garden hybrids are costly, there are
common kinds in abundance which may be had cheaply enough to
be within the reach of all, and it may be taken as an axiom that
the cheaper they are the more satisfactory they will be. The
common English Daffodil and its varieties are probably better

1'

August 10, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

119

known than any, and are seen in florists’ windows from January
until Easter-time, having been forced in greenhouses. The flowers
are large, trumpet- shaped, borne singly on stout stems, wholly
yellow in such varieties as Golden Spur and Trumpet Major, and
with a white perianth and yellow trumpet in Horsfieldi, and a
primrose trumpet with yellow perianth in Obvallaris, the Tenby
Daffodil. The Incomparabilis and varieties follow the trumpet
section in their period of blooming, and are distinguished by a
larger perianth and smaller trumpet, which is in these called the
crown. Of this class the great Welsh Chalice Flower, Sir Watkin,
is the best. It has a vigorous constitution, and increases quite
rapidly. The Poets’ Narcissus is the latest of all to bloom. The
flowers are white, with a small crown edged with red. It is, more¬
over, very sweetly scented.

Doronicum plantagineum excelsum is a very handsome early
yellow blooming Composite. It makes an excellent border plant,
and furnishes a good supply of flowers for cutting. The Virginian
Cowslip (Mertensia virginica), with its lovely panicles of metallic-
blue flowers, is ever welcome ; the cut flowers are charming. This
should always be planted where it can have especial care. It forms
long tuberous roots ; dying down very early in the season it is apt
to be overlooked and destroyed by hoeing. The common English
Primrose and the more recent Primrose-Polyanthus hybrids have
developed a beautiful class of plants for early spring border work,
as well as for general house decoration. There are now strains
producing flowers of all shades of red, purple, lilac, yellow and
white. Heuchera sanguinea is a comparatively new and beautiful
species from Mexico. It is suitable for the front rank of the
border or for the alpine garden. Its long, slender spikes of
coral-red flowers are particularly beautiful, and last for a long
time. Sweet Williams (Dianthus barbatus), although rather un¬
wieldy for cutting, have the affectionate regard of all flower lovers.
They are best cultivated as biennials. Seeds may be sown in
May, and, transplanted 8 inches apart, they make good clumps
for shifting into blooming quarters in the spring following. Day
Lilies (Hemerocallis) are among the most satisfactory border
plants. The flowers are of various shades of yellow. By’ taking
H. Dumortieri, orange yellow, early ; H. graminea, sulphur yellow,
early ; H. flava, yellow, summer blooming ; and H. Thunbergi,
sulphur yellow, late, a supply of these may be had for a long
time. The flowers are sweet-scented, and are effective for deco¬
rative work.

Pseonies generally suggest, in the popular mind, very showy but
rather coarse double flowers. The single varieties are exceedingly
handsome and very appropriate for vases. The Maltese Cross, or
Scarlet Lychnis (L. chalcedonica), is a very common border plant,
very bright and pure in colour. In this respect it is unique. No
plant gives so much satisfaction, taking care of itself perfectly ; it
remains more or less in bloom during the entire summer. L. ves-
pertina plena is the double form of the common evening scented
species of Europe. While healthy enough where established, it is
safer to protect its rather fleshy rootstock with a few dry leaves.
The Alpine Poppy (Papaver alpinum) and the Iceland Poppy
(P. nudicaule) are more or less in bloom the whole season, and if
picked when freshly opened will last two or three days. The
colours of the first-named are mostly shades of red and white, of
the latter yellow. In habit and constitution they are very much
alike. These elegant little species are not quite happy in an
ordinary border ; they should have a space set apart, free from the
shade of coarse growing plants, and also have the slight protection
of leaves or Pine needles rather than manure. Perennial Lark¬
spurs are noble border plants. Their majestic spikes of blue stand
out distinctly. The double varieties are desirable for cutting,
lasting well. By a little care in cutting away seed stems a supply
may be had until late in the autumn. The double white Achillsea
Ptarmica, although rather weedy in habit, is a free bloomer and
quite indispensable where cut flowers are required.

Coreopsis grandiflora is a clear yellow flowering species, giving
an abundance of blooms until late. It is rather biennial in
character, but sows itself so freely that there is never any danger
of losing it. The double as well as single varieties of Pyrethrum
roseum and Potentilla grandiflora are general favourites in
European gardens, where many fine named varieties are cultivated.
These should be grown in beds or borders by themselves and
receive abundance of water in summer and light protection in
winter. Thermopsis caroliniana, a yellow-flowered member of the
Pea family, makes a bright and attractive border plant. Its hand¬
some spikes of yellow flowers are useful in vases. Many other
perennials might be added, but Helianthus decapetalus, single and
double, Aster bessarabicus, A. Novoe-Anglise, and the Japanese
Anemones must close this list of useful plants, and these will
furnish flowers from spring until autumn. — T. D. H. (in Garden
pud Forest).

Bulbophyllum viride.

This small species was sent to Kew for determination by Philip
Crowley, Esq., Waddon House, Croydon, in December, 1890. A
plant presented to the Kew collection has since flowered on two or
three occasions. It is allied, says the “ Kew Bulletin,” to B. in-
tertextum, Lindl., from the same region. The flowers are wholly
light green, except for the presence of a pair of small dull purple
eye-like spots on the base of the lip, and a stain of the same colour
on the face of the column.

Eria albiflora.

This plant was sent to Mr. J. O’Brien of Harrow-on-the-Hill,
Middlesex, with whom it flowered in June, 1891, and again in
August of the following year ; and it has also flowered at Kew.
It belongs, the “ Kew Bulletin ” observes, to the section Bryobium,
and may be placed next to E. articulata, Lindl. The flowers are
white, and are borne in a lax raceme on a slender scape. There is
a drawing in the collection marked “Wynaad, Sept., Jerdon’s sale,
1873,” which is evidently the same species, but it does not appear
to have been previously described.

CffiLOGYNE TENUIS.

This species belongs to Lindley’s section Flexuos^, and, accord¬
ing to the July number of the “ Kew Bulletin,” may be placed
next to C. borneensis, Rolfe (supra p. 62). It differs in its one-
leaved pseudo-bulbs, slender scapes, and other characters. It was
introduced by Messrs. Linden of L’Horticulture Internationale,
Brussels, with whom it flowered in August, 1892. The flowers
were somewhat withered when received, but appear to be of a light
buff shade, with very few markings on the lip. The pseudo-bulbs
and leaves are described from a reduced sketch.

Masdevallia Gelengiana.

When exhibited by Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., at the meeting
of the Royal Horticultural Society, on April 25th of this year, a

fig. 18.— masdevellia gelengiana.

plant of Masdevallia Gelengiana created some interest amongst
orchidists, and a first-class certificate was awarded for it. As shown
in the engraving (fig. 18), the plant is dwarf in growth, being less
than 4 inches in height. The flowers are not very large, and are
pale greenish yellow tinge, covered with minute rosy crimson spots.
The tail-like appendages to the blooms are about 3 inches in
length.

120

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 10, 1893.

Epidendrum PUMILUM.

A pretty little species allied to E, Endresi, Rchh.f. (apparently
the nearest ally which has yet appeared, but very different in the
shape of its leaves and colour of its flowers. It was imported by
Messrs. F . Sander & Co. of St. Albans, with whom it flowered in
January, 1890. Early in the present year it was also received for
determination from Mr. F. W. Moore, Glasnevin Botanic Garden.
The sepals and petals are light greenish yellow, also the lip, with
the exception of the orange-yellow callus. The column is very
pale green below, nearly white above. As in E. Endresi, the sheaths
of the leaves are covered with small brown warts.

THE VIOLA.

This beautiful flower, the culture of which has of late years received
a remarkable stimulus from the writings of Mr. Dean of Birmingham,
Mr. Cuthbertson of Rothesay, Mr. McLeod of Chingford, and others,
may perhaps be accounted by many of my readers, who do not know it*
value, a minor consideration when compared with other and more
ambitious flowers, and yet it is possible that the Viola may have
attributes of the greatest importance which they do not possess. It has
not the glowing splendour of the imperial Lily or the queenly Rose, yet
in its own exquisite department of Nature it reigns supreme. The
period during which it graces our gardens is considerably longer than
that which is glorified by any other flower. It blooms upon the grave
of the Snowdrop and Ifepatica ; it is a charming contemporary of the
vernal Daffodil ; it sees the Aquilegia, after a brief yet delightful term
of beauty, consigned to decay ; it is not unnoticed in its unobtrusive
sweetness, when the Musk Carnations break and swell. Of all of these
floral magnates it is the lowly companion, and it survives them all.
I hope my enthusiasm has not carried me away, but in the special
direction of durability can as much be asserted of any other flower ?
Hybrid Perpetuals and Tea-scented Roses have two seasons, but each of
these is sufficiently short in duration, and on the wffiole I greatly com¬
miserate those writers who can write only on the Rose, that most
evanescent of flowers. I have Roses such as the Reynolds Hole, which,
though immensely eulogised by rosarians, can stand effectually neither
sunlight nor rain. The former, if ordinarily powerful, annihilates their
complexion ; after a single shower of the latter, by which the Viola is
greatly revived, they are found in a condition of putridity — a saddening
revelation, which during the last extraordinary summer, and especially
within the last three weeks, has often come to me. The flowers which,
in my experience, most heroically withstand and survive the elements I
have indicated are the Sweet Pea, the Aquilegia, the Lily, the Viola,
and the Tropseolum. I have no desire, while thus emphasising the
durability of our humbler garden treasures, to under-estimate thereby
the value of the Rose. It is indeed, when perfect, a work of indescrib¬
able beauty, but its glory is like that of the rainbow or the sunset — it is
marvellously short lived. It was Montgomery, that florist among poets,
who sang : —

“ The Rose is but a summer’s reign ;

The Daisy never dies.”

Almost as much might expressively be said of the Viola, for there are
few indeed of the “ Daughters of the Year ” to whom its aspect is
unknown.

I presume that every successful cultivator of this charming flower
has his special favourites, and I am free to confess that my own are
Violetta, a lo'^ly miniature rayless Viola, with the fragrance of the
sweet-scented^ violet ; the Countess of Wharncliffe, which is white satin
alike to the vision and to the touch, perhaps the most cherished of my
floral possessions ; Bridesmaid, the White Duchess, H. M. Stanley, the
Lemon Queen, the Countess of Kintore, and the uniquely complexioned
Duchess of Fife. I have no desire to dogmatise upon so delicate a
theme ; I know there are no confines to the vast domains of taste,
that prejudice is often so mysterious in it* origin as to be perfectly
unaccountable, save upon the principle of the law of variation ; yet of
this I am assured, that by reason of their faultless form and delicate
perfume the varieties I have enumerated should be included in every
collection that is worthy of the name. I have little doubt that such
veritable gems as Violetta and the Countess of Wharncliffe find favour
with that veteran midland cultivator Mr. Wm. Dean, who has probably
done more than any living man to raise the Viola into that eminence of
popularity which, through his powerful exertions and its own inherent
virtues, it presently commands,

I have spoken of its manifold invaluable characteristics ; I leave it
to the specialists whose names I have recorded to describe its cultivation,
—David R. Williamson.

MIGNONETTE.

In the onward march of flowers towards perfection Mignonette has
not been forgotten. Many improved forms have been raised, but it
would be too much to affirm that the ordinary cultivator has given to
these the justice they deserve. Therefore, before I write a word of
praise about the improved sorts, I shall draw attention to the negligent
way in which Mignonette is cultivated. The ordinary growler commences
wrong in sowing the seed much too thickly. The result is thin stems,
small foliage, and poor heads of flower, with a short season of blooming.
Ike tiuth IS this sweet flower yields a return for the slightest amount of

care devoted to it, consequently it has been culturally greatly neglected.
I have some growing in a bed of Narcissi the ground being hard through
want of digging, yet these plants are producing large spikes of bloom.

Mignonette succeeds well on dry soil. We have a long border which
is always dry, unless when rain is falling, and Mignonette thrives well
in this border ; but it revels in a light rich open soil. In this, if given
room, it grows and spreads with great rapidity. The plants should be at
least 18 inches asunder, unless in the case of a dwarf sort, such as
Tom Thumb which may be grown at a foot apart. Another point of
importance is to see that no seeds are allowed to form and remain on the
plants. Personally, I have no difficulty in this direction, as the plants
are cut so hard and so often for their flowers ; but where the flowers
are not required it is worth while to remove all those spikes which get to
the seeding stage.

For many years past we have had a choice of good varieties, and
that being so, it is as well to grow these. Those I am this year
growing are Cloth of Gold, Machet, Garraway’s White, Crimson King,
Tom Thumb, and Queen Victoria. All these are worth growing, a good
selection being the three first named, — B.

CANKER IN FRUIT TREES.

In reply to “ H. P.” (page 105) 1 have the pleasure to say that the
fungus I intended and referred to as producing scaly canker on Pear
trees was as stated — Cladosporium dendriticum, Wallr., var. pyrinum.
Actinonema cratmgi is merely a form of C. dendriticum, which it is not
usual to refer to when treating generally of the species. Besides, I was
under the impression that the variety of the species found on Cratmgus,
especially the leaves of C. Pyracantha, was C, dendriticum orbiculatum.
It is so given by the Rev. M. J. Berkeley in his “Outlines of British
Fungology,” and differs from the species as found on Apple trees, also
from that found on Pear trees.

Dothiora pyrenophora, Fr., belongs, as “ H. P.” is no doubt aware, to
the order Sphasronemei, and produces another form of canker on twigs
of Apple and Pear. Another species, D. sphseroides, Fr,, does the same
on Ash twigs, and of both the fungus causing canker in its most
malignant form — viz., Nectria ditissima — is not slow to avail itself.

Cladosporium dendriticum belongs to the order Dematiei, in which
the threads are free, rarely collected into stipitiform bundles, yet
corticated and carbonised as also frequently are the spores. These in
Cladosporium spring from the sides or terminally, and are short at first,
finally uniseptate. Does “ H. P.” mean to imply that Dothiora pyreno¬
phora and Cladosporium dendriticum are synonymous 1 D. pyrenophora
spores are pedicellate, obovate, and simple.

Allow me to thank “ H. P.” for his interesting and (to me) instruc¬
tive communication, and to say that I have not found Nectria ditissima
on the roots of Apple trees, but the fungus has been found on those of
Ash trees, which, however, are often exposed. The worst form of root
canker (so called) that I have acquaintance with is that produced by
American blight on Apple trees, and there is an allied species which
infests the roots of Beech trees, and renders the stems almost white in
some cases. Can any correspondent give the correct name and history of
this species ? I have an impression that it attacks the Crab, and if so it
will attack Apple trees. If it be the same species that infests Crabs, as
that which is found on Beech tree roots, it would make sad havoc in an
orchard if once established in the trees. Perhaps “ Entomologist ” will
enlighten us upon this point.

In making researches into the diseases of Larch which died off by
the hundred acres when nearly large enough for pit props, for which
purpose the Larch was grown, I found a number of fungi on the roots.
These, however, were mostly stages of Agaricus melleus, namely Rhizo-
morpha fragilis and R. subcorticalis, the mycelium of which lives
between the wood and the bark, and this species may occasionally be
found on Apple-tree roots. The mischief to the Larch had manifestly
been caused by Peziza Willkommi or calycina, which acts much in the
same way as Nectria ditissima on Apple trees. Of course, a number of
fungi will live on dead roots, but I have not found any on the live roots
which has produced canker. Nectria cinnabarina will grow on almost
any kind of detached exposed root, preceded by Tubercularia vulgaris,
but neither occurs on living tissue, and if canker occurs at the roots
it is generally in consequence of some damage or leaving portions of
broken or detached roots in planting or root-pruning,

I am extremely obliged to “ H. P.” for his excellent factor in connection
with canker : — “ I have often found roots of trees, the top growth of which
is badly cankered, perfectly free from canker,” That completely settles
the soil theorists, and Mr. Tendered in particular, whose valued com¬
munications have clenched all my arguments, and I am sorry that he
thinks I hare quoted his letter unfairly. If this is meant to apply to the
facts, which I certainly did not question, I tender my best apologies.
But that is not the point, for it was not the facts but the deductions
Mr, Tendered drew from them that were and are still questioned, and it
is quite clear Mr. Tendered could have saved immensely by first finding
out the cause before proceeding to apply remedies. Anything short of
that is mere quackery. There is nothing like resource, and it is
remarkable that Mr. Tendered should reserve the fact of his having cut
all the cankered parts away of some trees. Of this he said nothing in
his previous letter, and I decline now to entertain it as evidence, for
keeping back essential facts is fatal to any case. Nevertheless, the
Laurel hedge is put forward as proof that gum on Laurels arises from the
soil, yet those on the bank have some dead boughs, or as Mr, Tendered
puts it, “scarcely a dead bough,” therefore they are not canker

August 10, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

121

proof notwithstanding the difference in environment of those on the
level ground. These Laurels grew rapidly for a few years, but in seven
years whole branches died, and growths start again near the bottom.
In his previous letter Mr. Tendered said he cleared them away and
planted fresh. How does he reconcile the two statements ? Or if the
soil was the cause of the canker why do shrubs grow again healthily ?

Tour correspondent may rest assured that the simple remedy he
advises will continue to be followed as spasmodically a little longer as
it has been during the past 2000 years ; but I have no doubt whatever
that my “ scientific ” efforts will be within the grasp of every ordinary
fruit grower, and possessed by every schoolboy within this decade. —
G. Abbey.

The word “ orbiculatum ” in my letter to you, printed on page 106,
August 3rd, fifth line from the top, should have been placed in the
next line, after “ dendriticum,” thus : “ var. orbiculatum.” It is my
mistake entirely. — H. P.

“ D., Deal,” in Journal of Horticulture, page 98, writes in rather
disparaging terms of the above Kose. Can he be aware of the fact that
in an election of the best twenty-four Tea Eoses The Bride received the
highest number of votes, viz., forty-six, and Ernest Metz forty-one ; to
me this is conclusive proof that leading exhibitors think very highly of the
latter. All through June I could gather splendid specimens, but by the
time of the National (July 1st) the best were over. In my opinion
Ernest Metz is far away the finest and best Tea Kose sent out during
the last six years. It was shown in fine form at the National Tea Kose
Show (June 20th) this year. — Benjamih K. Cant, Colchester.

Souvenir de la Malmaison (B£luze, 1843).

I WISH to say a word about the Kose thus described in the National
Kose Society’s catalogue. It is a very old Kose, as I have always believed
once a favourite with the Empress Josephine. That, however, hardly
agrees with the N.E.S. date. It is hardly an exhibition Rose. I
remember twenty years ago it had rather a way of appearing in the
boxes of Teas of beginners, but it is well worthy of more extensive
cultivation by those who are not Rose showers. My intimate acquaint¬
ance with it dates from this year. Up to then I never had more than one
plant of it in my garden ; but last autumn, whilst arranging a very
small town Rose garden, a liberal friend who buys his Roses by the
beds, seldom less than a dozen of any variety, and who also has a way
o f changing his Roses, presented me with a whole bed of Malmaisons.
T hey were large old plants and were cut in very hard. They began
blooming in May, and have never ceased for a day, and seem disposed
to keep on steadily until checked by the frosts. It is the nearest
instance I have known of a true Perpetual. My hot little shut in
garden also suits Teas. The Bride, Waban, Comtesse de Nadaillac, and
others of the kind have done, and are doing, very well ; but I have had
nothing to surpass, or indeed equal, the Souvenir de la Malmaison in
the early stage of its bloom. It must be admitted we townsfolk have
one valuable advantage — we can turn on the hose whenever needed ;
and plenty of sunshine and plenty of water go a long way towards
perfecting flowers. — A. C.

National Rose Society.

The manifesto of the Secretaries of this Society set forth in the
Journal, page 97, as a sort of counterblast to my circular to exhibiting
members, has caused me some amusement ; and although it may annoy
other people, they should not take it too seriously, as it can be only
looked on as a jeu d'esprit, to which both the Honorary Secretaries
are prone at times. No one, even the proverbial and much-maligned
Scotsman, could by at any natural process of reasoning come to the con¬
clusion that my circular was issued by the Society, or required official
sanction. If the manifesto be meant as a sly hint to the members
that they should not reply to my queries, the Secretaries have been
somewhat dilatory in issuing it, and I may mention that these gentle¬
men were amongst the very first persons to reeeive the circular, which
has been out quite a fortnight.

I have received replies from all the largest as well as many other
well informed exhibitors, also from others highly thought of amongst
our members, from the President downwards. I am quite satisfied with
these replies, many of them accompanied with letters expressive of
gratification that these subjects are being at last properly inquired into,
and I intend in due time to give an analysis of the opinions expressed.
As the Secretaries have taken the trouble to mention the fact of my
resignation of Committee, which took place early last June, I may as
well supplement their information by stating that in order that I should
in future have no official connection with the Society, I also at the same
time resigned my local secretaryship of the Croydon district. No doubt
the Secretaries will soon find a better representative. — Charles
J. Grahame,

Tea Roses from Cuttings.

So immensely popular are Tea Roses, that notwithstanding the vast
number of bushes disposed of annually by nurserymen, few gardens can
boast of being able to maintain a continuous supply of their deliciously
scented flowers. The death-rate of plants in the open air has, during
the last two years, been unusually heavy, and in order to obtain a suffi¬
cient number of plants to fill up vacancies, a considerable outlay has, in
many instances, been necessary. To some this is a matter of little
moment, to others it is one of importance ; and there are few indeed
who would not be glad to expend upon new Roses a greater amount
than they at times find available. This I think they might easily
do if plants of older varieties were propagated freely each year, so as
to have a sufficient stock in hand to fill up gaps, or at least some of
them.

I have tried many experiments in connection with the propagation of
Tea Roses from cuttings, and I am convinced that if the right kind of
wood is selected the present is the best time in the whole year to set
about the work. When the right method is adopted it is surprising
with what ease and certainty a good stock of vigorous plants may be
obtained. The plan I find best is the following. I select the requisite
number of short-jointed half-ripened shoots which, if possible, have been
severed from the parent plant with a heel attached. Cut in lengths
containing from three to five joints, although it is only necessary to
have a couple of joints above the soil after the cuttings are inserted.
Varieties differ much in the length of joints, and I find that the most
vigorous plants are produced from cuttings having a moderate amount
of growth above the soil, provided the leaves and stems are kept from
shrivelling till young roots are emitted. In preparing the cuttings, cut
the base with a sharp knife, trim any projecting portions of bark,
remove a couple of the lower leaves, and if needful shorten the top to
a good bud.

Fresh yellow loam two parts, with an equal quantity of leaf soil and
a liberal amount of sharp sand added, form the compost I employ. This
is pressed moderately firm into well drained 5-inch pots and given a
surfacing of sand. Half a dozen cuttings are inserted round the sides
of each pot and one in the centre. The soil is pressed firmly around the
base of each cutting. Failure is frequently brought about through not
attending to this simple detail. A watering is then given and the pots
be plunged in cocoa-nut fibre or sawdust in a cold frame, one having a
north or west aspect is preferable. Much less difficulty is then expe¬
rienced in keeping the atmosphere cool and moist without resorting to
dense shade. No air need be admitted for a couple of weeks, except in
dull weather to dry superfluous moisture. The cuttings are syringed
once or twice daily during bright weather. This keeps the soil suffi¬
ciently moist till air is admitted, but should it become in the least dry
upon the surface water is given through a rose, as the least approach to
dryness about the base of the cuttings causes the cellular tissue to
become contracted, and failure is the result. A little air is admitted
daily after the cuttings have been inserted a fortnight.

Some growers make a mistake in being in too great a hurry to pot
the young plants directly they see growth has commenced, the result
being that they are lost. It is rare indeed that the cuttings have more
than callused by the time growth begins, and even when young roots
are just pushing into the soil it is a dangerous practice to pot. This
operation should be deferred till the roots have obtained a good hold of
the soil, and there is no difficulty in determining when they have
reached this stage if they are carefully turned out of the pots. Three or
4-inch pots will be quite large enough to transfer the plants to, as it is
important to have the soil well permeated with roots before winter sets
in. The plants should if possible be wintered in a pit or other structure
from which frost is excluded. They succeed fairly well if plunged
in coal ashes in a cold pit ; but during a long spell of severe frosts they
suffer considerably from the damp and confined atmosphere. Under
such conditions the plants do not start into good growth in the spring,
and much time is lost. When, however, they are kept, as above advised,
in heated structures, the rvood gets thoroughly hardened during the
winter, and the plants are ready for potting early in the spring.

When all danger from frost is over the strongest will be available
for planting in beds in the open air, while the remainder may either be
grown in pots or planted in a warm corner of the reserve garden.
Whichever course is pursued, if good culture is given spleiidid
plants will be produced by the following season. A number of cuttings
put in annually will then maintain a constant supply of Tea Rose trees
which will be available for all purposes, and being always ready at hand,
maybe planted at the most opportune times. Any who act upon the
advice above given will, I am sure, have no difficulty in raising a good
stock of Tea Roses, and, judging from the exclamations I frequently
hear, there are not a few who would gladly increase their stock in a
way so simple, yet satisfactory. — H. Dunkin, Castle Gardens,
Warwicli.

National Rose Society’s Provincial Show at W orksop.

It was a bold venture to hold the Provincial Show this year at the
small Nottingham town of Worksop, bold on the part of_ the Ic^al
Society which ventured upon the trouble and expense which such a
proposition involves, bold on the part of the Society which entru^ed
the second great event of the season to a small local Society which had
indeed for some years been affiliated, but whose modest pretensions had
not hitherto given any indication of the more ambitious projects that
lay beneath the surface. It is another instance of what can be d(me
when one energetic person undertakes such a work. He infuses hig

122

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 10, 1893.

enthusiasm into powers who warmly second his efforts and do their best
to forward the interests of the Society.

It is due to Mr. Henry V. Machin in the first instance, and to Messrs.
Whale, Baxter, and the zealous Committee, that all the arrangements
were so carefully made ; but there is one element in all such matters
with which we must have to reckon, but which we cannot control, the
character of the weather. As week after week of the continued drought
rolled by, the thought could but be present. When this breaks up shall
we not have a wet and dreary time ? and then came the remembrance
of Chester last year, the most disastrous day that the N.R.S. has ever
experienced at its provincial shows ; and when I arrived at Worksop on
the evening previous and was told that already there had been registered
Ij inch of rain that day, one could not but feel that ill-fortune is
likely to follow, and that Worksop will be a reproduction of Chester.
The morning broke gloomily with a drizzling rain, but happily it cleared
off between twelve and one, and the afternoon was tolerably fine ; but
the wet had had its effect on both exhibitors and the public, and the
result was unfavourable in a financial point of view. To anyone who
recollected the overflowing show at Chester, that at Worksop must have
appeared small, and that it was so was borne out by the fact that in the
highest class for seventy-twos there was but one competitor, that the
great Essex firms were unrepresented, while from the further south no
one appeared except plucky Mr. George Mount amongst nurserymen,
and Mr. Budd amongst amateurs.

The Metropolitan Show has by some been rather absurdly called the
Rose Derby, but the Derby is but one incident in the great Epsom
meeting. The analogy of that great race is to be found in the competition
for the much-coveted trophies. Carrying out this comparison I think we
may compare the competition for the Jubilee trophies to the race for
the St. Leger at Doncaster. Like it, it was carried out on northern
ground, and, like it, only stands a little lower in the estimation of winners
to the great Metropolitan event. It sometimes happens in these races
that an outsider on whom nobody reckoned defeats all the calculations
of the book-makers, and so it happened at Worksop ; and while antici¬
pations as to whether Budd or Pemberton or Lindsell would carry it off,
one whose name was never even alluded to, Mr. A. Whitton of Bedale,
bore off the trophy. As to nurserymen everybody concluded that it
would go to Messrs. Harkness, and for the second time this firm has
accomplished a feat which no other firm has done — namely, carrying off
both trophies for the year. It was not so easily won, as Messrs.
Alex. Dickson & Sons of Newtownards ran them so close that there were
but few points of difference between them ; indeed, in one respect they
had an advantage — namely, the greater variety of colour in their stand.
I think it was disappointment to a good many that Mr. Machin did not
take a higher place, but it was no surprise to me, who had heard that he
had not cut his Roses until the drenching rain came on. It is but
another instance of the fatal mistake that amateurs so often make of
putting off the cutting of their Roses until the very latest time possible,
especially if the show be near at hand. Let an exhibitor only think at
what time the Roses from Canterbury and Newtownards must have
been cut, when he will at once see that his best plan is to make hay
while the sun shines. Had Mr. Machin but cut his Roses in the early
morning of the day before, I have no hesitation in saying that he would
have easily taken the premier place. Although the season has been so
unfavourable, yet there are some Roses which have been exhibited in as
fine condition as ever they were shown in. Take for example Horace
Vernet, which has secured the silver medal for the best H.P. both at the
Crystal Palace and Worksop. Grand blooms also were shown of Comte
Raimbaud, Earl of Dufferin, Due de Wellington, Victor Hugo, Suzanne
Marie Rodocanachi, A. K. Williams, Charles Darwin, Dr. Sewell, Louis
Van Houtte ; whilst amongst Teas some grand blooms of Ethel
Brownlow, Marie Van Houtte, Madame Hoste, a beautiful bloom of*
which secured the N.R.S.’s medal in Messrs. Dickson & Sons of
Newtownards firm, the same flower securing the silver medal in the
amateurs’ class for Mr. Walter Drew. The Mrs. John Laing, which
secured the silver medal for Mr. Pemberton, was a good flower, though I
have seen finer blooms of it. Amongst the smaller exhibitors who
hailed from the South, few indeed in number, must be noted Mr.
Charles J. Grahame of Croydon, Mr. Edward Mawley, the Honorary
Secretary, and the Rev. H. H. Gall of Hitchin, all of whom showed
exceedingly well, especially when we consider the disadvantages under
which they laboured from the long drought.

The wisdom of the alteration in the Society’s rules with regard to
new Roses — namely, that of allowing those in the last three years instead
of two to be included in the stands — was shown here, as it had already
been in the Crystal Palace. Formerly we used to get a few indifferent
blooms from grafted plants, whereas now we can not only have our
English raised Roses but whatever French ones there are, and they are
very few, are no longer from pot plants, but from those grown in the
open ground. One has only to recollect what Madame Hoste was when
first exhibited among new Roses, and then to see what it is now, is
how widely different the flowers are under these two different conditions.
Thus probably so good a stand of new Roses has not before been
exhibited as that of Messrs. Alex. Dickson & Sons, containing as it did
some of their own fine Roses, Marchioness of Londonderry, Margaret
Dickson, and Marchioness of Dufferin, Duke of Fife, Gustave Piganeau,
which would have been excluded but for the new rule, with the American
sport Chabaw, and a few French Roses of no particular merit, but of
which we may perhaps hear more by-and-by. While upon this subject
I may mention a very remarkable stand of new Roses shown by a local
exhibitor. When I say that it contained a white Charles Lefevre, a red

Baroness Rothschild, and a pink Baron de Von Stettin, it will be at
once seen how perfectly unique it was. Out of the twelve blooms there
were only five correctly named. It could not be disqualified as there were
no duplicates, but surely one would think that even a “crock boy’’
would have known better than to have made such preposterous mistakes,
and it seemed very hard to be obliged to give a prize to a s^and whose
nomenclature was so very mixed as in this case.

Garden Roses, as might have been expected owing to the character
of the season, were not largely exhibited, but there was one very excel¬
lent stand from Mr. Machin, in which some of the plants, such as the
Rugosa, were shown with a good deal of foliage, and I cannot but think
that this is the condition in which these exhibits should be seen in
future — at least, where the exhibitors are near home — for it is no easy
matter to carry these flowers any distance. A bunch of L’Ideale
attracted considerable attention, and some bunches of the small Poly-
antha section were very attractive.

As your reporter has already given a full account of the prizetakers
and of the flowers they exhibited I have not entered into any details
upon these points, but have merely indicated the chief points of interest,
and it is to be sincerely hoped that this Exhibition may have given a
stimulus to Rose growing in the northern midlands, and that, as in other
places, although it may not have resulted in any immediate profit to the
local Society, good effects may be felt in future years. — D., Beal,

FRUIT PROSPECTS IN BEDFORDSHIRE.

Apples are a good average crop. The fruits of many kinds are
rather smaller than usual, but now the rains have come they are swell¬
ing fast. The Codlin class, such as Lord Sulfield, is better than I have
seen for some years. Pears, about half a crop upon bush and standard
trees, better results on walls. Eeurre Clairgeau, Louise Bonne of Jersey,
Williams’ Bon Chretien, and Marie Louise are amongst the best.
Plums are a good average crop. Apricots half a crop. Peaches and
Nectarines on unprotected walls are carrying full crops and ripening
about a month earlier than usual. The trees generally are healthier
and better than they have been for some years. Peaches of good size
and quality were gathered from the walls the first week in July, but it
was necessary to assist the trees with liberal supplies of water, other¬
wise the fruit would have been very small.

Strawberries showed abundance of blossom, but owing to the late
spring frosts, the long drought, and excessive heat, we had only about
half a crop, and this was only secured by heavy waterings. Laxton’s
Scarlet Queen was the pioneer this season, beating John Ruskin and
Noble by a few days ; Laxton’s Latest of All has proved itself a good
variety of the British Queen type, of excellent flavour and size. It
seems to do well on rather light sandy soil, where British Queen will
not succeed. Oxonian was the latest with finely coloured fruit.

Bush fruits have been about half a crop, and very small. These
ripened irregularly owing to the long drought. As soon as the
fruits showed signs of colouring they were attacked by birds. The
little blue tits are very troublesome, they set nets of ordinary size at
defiance, flying clean through 1-inch mesh ; but owing to the welcome
rains we have had during July, upwards of 5 inches, vegetation is
making rapid progress. Apples and Pears are swelling very fast now,
and promise to be of good size, the fruits of most kinds being clear
and bright.

Most kinds of vegetables have suffered from the drought. It has
only been from highly cultivated soil, deep digging, and generous
manuring that the best results were obtained. — G. R. ALLIS, Old Warden,
Biggleswade.

NOTES FROM BRISTOL.

Bristol, like most large cities in this country, can boast of many good
gardening establishments in its suburbs, supported by its most wealthy
merchants and private residents who take an interest in some phase of
garden work for pleasure or profit or a combination of both. The Chrys¬
anthemum and spring Shows which are held in Bristol testify in a
marked degree to the higher class of gardening carried on there, the
Chrysanthemum fixture being looked upon as one of the best in the
provinces. For want of time I was enabled only to visit a few of the
many interesting gardens I am acquainted with, and notes on such may
not be without some interest to the many readers of the Journal resident
in the district,

Springfield.

This is the pleasantly situated residence of F. Savage, Esq.
Although good all-round gardening is carried on there are specialities
both in winter and summer, foremost of them being Orchids, which are
wonderfully well grown by Mr. Edwards, who, it may be said, has held
his present position for thirty years, and I believe for the whole of that
time has been a constant reader of the Journal of Uorticulture. The
collection is not a large one, but it embraces sufficient in point of
numbers and variety for furnishing a succession of bloom at all seasons.
At the present time Odontoglossum Insleayi leopardianum, 0. tigrinum,
and 0. pulchellum are conspicuous, while of Oncidiums 0. Cavendish-
iana, 0. sphacelatum — the first named a good form, the latter a fine
specimen now fast opening. Oucidium splendidum must have been
fine, judging from the size of the remaining portion of the flower stem
and the v’gour of the plant. 0. crispum and 0. varicosum are each
strong and healthy, and produce a good annual display. 0. macranthum,

Ausrust 10, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

123

to my mind the queen of Oncidiums, is here in splendid form ; last
season its spike reached across the house, and for convenience was
trained to the roof girder, and must indeed have been very fine. Lycaste
Skinneri resembles the well known Phaius grandifolius in its growth, and
was just pushing forth vigorous flower spikes. Among Cattleyas, gigas
Sanderiana was conspicuous by its flne bold growths ; this plant last year
produced nine of its massive and richly coloured blooms, which measured
9 inches in diameter. C. Bowringiana, C. Skinneri, C. Mendelli,
C. Mossise, and C. Harrisonise violacea were each in a healthy, vigorous
state, not mere scraps but fine large pieces. Imported plants of the
now popular autumn-flowering Cattleya labiata were noticed, some of
which had already bloomed, others being awaited with interest, because
of their varying character of growth. Cypripedium insigne in 7-inch
pots were carrying twenty and upwards of their useful blooms, which
are valuable for house decorating. Dendrobiums nobile, Wardianum,
and Farmeri, among others, were noticeable, the plants being fine with
an abundant promise of bloom.

Crotons, Dracaenas, and other foliage plants and Ferns are grown
to meet a large demand for indoor work ; while Eucharis, Dipladenias,
and Allamandas furnish choice flowers for cutting purposes. Eucharises
are particularly strong, and flower frequently, and for the cleaning their
leaves no insecticide is ever employed, Mr. Edwards being of opinion
that injury to the foliage brings on premature debility, and sometimes
failure. Small pots of Adiantum farleyense are always a feature here,
and a useful employment is found for them in the house, where they
are naturally very striking. Winter-flowering Pelargoniums are given
prominence to for cutting purposes, and Poinsettias form another of
Mr. Edwards’ specialities ; a good batch of the late blooming variety,
judging from those now remaining, must have been very fine. In
48-pots I noticed bracts measuring from 16 to 20 inches across, and
very dwarf in stem. Old plants are started early, and grown vigorously
until June, when the tops are taken off and put into small
pots, and these plunged in a frame on a prepared manure bed when the
•thermometer indicates a temperature of 90°, In a fortnight they are
rooted and ready for potting, and from that time they are gradually
exposed to light and cooler surroundings, so as to keep them dwarf.

Two very light and well ventilated houses furnish a supply of
Peaches, Nectarines, and Plums from the middle of June to the end of
September. The body of the houses are filled with a double row of
trees in pots, the lofty back walls having permanent ones trained to
wires. All the trees are perfectly clean and healthy ; those in pots, as
soon as the fruit is gathered, are plunged outdoors and their places
occupied with Chrysanthemums for the winter. An excellent provision
for increased ventilation is carried out by means of 4-inch glazed socket
pipes, conveyed through the centre of the border from end to end.
Upright pipes connected with this ventilating drain are placed at equal
distance apart, and an upright one at each end outdoors forms the shaft
for the conveyance of air into the house without any adjustment of the
ordinary ventilators. The outside ones are each fitted with a cover, so
that their use can be regulated with ease, and this additional volume of
air moving from the floor of the house is of great value in summer,
especially in such light structures.

I was interested in the heating arrangements carried out at Spring-
field. Mr. Edwards is much in favour of small pipes, and find by their
use a steady heat can be maintained more easily and with less strain
on the boilers than is the case with larger pipes. The mains are 3-inch
pipes, and reduced to 2-inch sizes in all the latest built structures which
the present proprietor has erected. Two tubular boilers are connected,
so that one or both may be used as occasion demands. There are many
other points of interest at Springfield which do credit to their owner and
gardener, but space does not permit of further detail. — W. S.

CTo be continued.)

STRAINS OF GRAPES — CONTINENTAL STRAW¬
BERRIES.

The French “ viticulteurs,” the nurserymen of the craft, such as
Etienne Salomon of Thomery, have gone very exhaustively into the
classification of the varieties of the Grape Vine. This has led them —
as it quite naturally should, and the only wonder is that others, the
English specialists included, have not made more of the fact — that there
exist many different “ strains ” of the same, and chiefly of the more
popular sorts. For instance the Black Hamburgh, or Frankenthal,
has been found to differ in this respect from the standard at least a
dozen times ; and the Gros Colman is classed with the French in two
very distinct strains — the one light leaved (in colour) with large berries,
colouring with diflSculty, and the leaves dying or ripening quicker ;
the other darker leaved, berries smaller and colouring very early and
quite black, I know all that the difference of soil and manuring can
do ; but the fact of different strains of the same variety existing cannot
be denied, and it would be more wonderful if such were not the case
than that it should be a fact.

I recollect reading some time ago in the Journal some queries
about the Marguerite Strawberry. The Marguerite Libreton, raised by
Libreton in 1856 or 1859, I do not recollect which, is a very large light
rose and very early Strawberry, of a most regular tapering shape. I have
seen some grown by a specialist of Brussels, now departed (De Jonghe)
3 inches long and 2 inches across the shoulder. There were two on the
plant which had only two or three leaves, and grown in a small pot.
It was the best market Strawberry for forcing, but is much discarded

now. It is not of first quality ; it mildews easily ; and the chief cause
of its not paying is — it is soft and does not keep ; the shop people do
not like it.

The Strawberry best liked for forcing here is Louis Vilmorin, It
is not an early sort, but grows very sturdy ; few leaves ; sets capitally ;
is of dark varnished red ; keeps and travels the best. By starting
early enough and quite gradually they come as soon as any other ;
the first fruits are large. The largest Strawberry is considered to be
Marbchal MacMahon, all the fruit comes large ; also Dr. Morel,
which strange to say (I have been told so) forces well on hotbeds, but
mildews fearfully if forced by hot-water heating. — Heleneveld,

The WeathePv in London. — After local thunderstorms towards the
end of last week, and much hail in places, a sudden change occurred.
On Monday and subsequent days this week the weather has been of a
tropical character, the sun being powerful and unclouded, but meteor¬
ologists have discovered a “ depression ” somewhere, and expect it to
reach us in the course of a few days,

- Dutch Hoeticultueal Society. — The members of the

“ Dutch Horticultural Travelling Society ” were present at the last
meeting of the Koyal Horticultural Society at the Drill Hall on the
8th inst. The conductor of the party was Mr. J. K. Budde, the
Curator of the Botanic Garden, Utrecht.

■ - Veemoeel’s Eclaie. — You had better warn your readers that

Vermorel’s sprayer cannot be used for emulsions containing soap or oils,
minerals or others. In a few hours’ time the indiarubber organs would
be destroyed. Mr. Vermorel in his notice points out the fact. The
Eclair is to be used for bouillie bordelaise alone ; at any rate, never with
any compound containing soap or oils. — H.

- Johnson’s Gaedenees’ Dictionaey. — The new edition of

this work will soon be completed, the sixth part having come to hand.
This instalment includes the portion of an article on Mushroom culture,
and ends with a description of the genus Pleopeltis. Two more parts
are, we believe, to be published to complete the book.

- Death of Me, Thomas Laxton, — Just as we are preparing

for press we learn with much regret of the death of Mr. Thomas
Laxton of Bedford, which occurred on Sunday afternoon, the 6th inst.,
after a distressing illness of eight weeks’ duration, at the age of sixty-
three years. As is well known, Mr. Laxton was one of our chief experts
in the art of cross-fertilization, and he exercised this art with remark¬
able diligence and success. He has added to our gardens new flowers,
vegetables, and fruits that will long keep his name in remembrance.
Only a few days prior to his death we were reminded of his achieve¬
ments in the form of a coloured plate of the new Strawberry Laxton’s
Eoyal Sovereign — a splendid early variety, as large as Sir Joseph Paxton,
with much of the British Queen flavour. This Mr. Laxton considered
his masterpiece among Strawberries, and the distribution of plants, we
presume, will be continued by his sons — the Laxton Brothers, Bedford,
Well it will be if they have inherited their father’s skill in the work in
which he engaged so zealously over a number of years.

- Philosophy of Deainage. — Few cultivators understand how

water operates in soil culture. One of its chief uses is to purify the
soil. The roots of plants require the agency of oxygen in preparing
food, just as much as the leaves do ; and after the air has lost its
oxygen it is impure and unfit for the use of the plant. A heavy fall of
rain completely saturates the soil and drives out the impure air, and as
this water passes away a new supply of air follows. In no other way
can the soil be rendered free of impure air than by this curious process
of Nature. In brief, says “ Meehan’s Monthly,” rain is a purifier of the
earth. Of course the soil retains moisture, and from this moisture the
roots subsequently are enabled to draw their supply. This is necessary,
but air is no less necessary than the water. One of the most interesting
treatises on the subject, and by which this paragraph has been suggested,
is an essay delivered before the Marion County Horticultural Society
of Salem, Oregon, by President John M. Bloss, of the State Agricultural
College, and Director of the Agricultural Experiment Station,

124

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 10, 1893.

- Gardening Appointment. — Mr. J. A. Cox, who has been

the past nine and half years foreman at Aldenham House, Elstree,
Herts, has been appointed gardener to the Hon. A. Holland Hibbert,
Munden Park, Watford, Herts,

- Prince Consort’s Association. — This Association recently

held its fortieth exhibition in Windsor Home Park. Collections of
plants were arranged by Mr. 0. Thomas, Royal Gardens, Frogmore,
Messrs. Sutton & Sons, and Mr. C. Turner.

- Profitable Culture. — It is quite certain, says the “ Rural

World,” that to make agriculture pay in this country it must approach
market gardening to a greater extent than it does, which means more
work for the rural labourer and better profits for the farmers.

- Sandringham Flower Show. — This annual exhibition was

held on Wednesday, August 2ad, and proved a great success. The fruit,
flowers, and vegetables staged by the cottagers were plentiful and of
good quality. The Sandringham gardens were open to visitors, who
were more numerous than for some years past.

- St. Mary’s Fields, Hampstead. — The preservation of these

fields as an open space is engaging attention in the district. At a
meeting held on Wednesday evening August 2nd, at St. Mary’s Hall,
Abbey Road, Hampstead, presided over by the Earl of Meath, resolutions
in favour of preserving as a public recreation ground the portion yet
unbuilt upon of St. Mary’s Fields were unanimously adopted.

- Pavia macrostachya. — A fine specimen of this beautiful

late flowering North American shrub was recently in full bloom in
Mr. Smee’s garden at Hackbridge, but suddenly died last week as if
through the effects of lightning. The flowers are produced with great
freedom and in dense plumy spikes. The growth is spreading and the
foliage abundant, in rich contrast to the wealth of bloom. Ample space
must be accorded to this plant to allow it to spread out in its own
characteristic way, whilst it thrives in any good garden soil.

- Parks and Open Spaces. — The Chairman stated in the

course of his address at a recent meeting that the parks and open
spaces under the charge of the London County Council had had their
area increased by 1000 acres during the past four years. The Council
possesses fourteen parks, thirty open spaces, and twenty-two gardens,
the annual cost of maintenance of which is £82,992, but there are few
items of expenditure devolving upon the Council that receive more
general approval than the expenditure in connection with London’s
open spaces.

- Sutton’s A1 Tomato. — At the first Exhibition of garden

produce held last week at Purley, the best dish of Tomatoes was this not
yet very well known variety. It is of the Challenger type, but is larger,
the fruits being more deep than broad. Perhaps for that reason the
exhibitor (Mr. Houlder) had it set up in heaped form, when the
full depth, form, and solidity of the fruits were made so much the more
apparent. A good dish of a flat round variety, the fruits set out singly,
looked best at the first, but the fruits were found to be lacking the depth
and weight as well as the finish of the A1 variety. I saw the plants
from which these fruits were gathered later in Mr. Houlder’s garden,
growing in a small span house and fruiting splendidly. I think these
deep or Apple-shaped Tomatoes wdll become popular. At the same
Show a very beautiful group of Begonias interspersed with effective
Caladiums and various flowering and foliage plants was staged by
Mr. J, M. Box of Croydon, who is an extensive grower of excellent
varieties. — A. D.

- Phacelia Campanulata. — There are many shades of blue in

annuals, and the most popular one just now seems to be the familiar
Cornflower, Centaurea Cyanus. As a buttonhole flower this has been
extensively worn during the past season. It is hoped that some day it
may be possible to obtain a selection that shall give a richer colour
than in even the best forms found in a garden strain. But one of the
most beautiful of all blue flowered hardy annuals is Phacelia campanu-
laria, a somewhat dwarf grower, and giving a fine mass of colour for
bedding. I saw this in grand form and colour the other day in Messrs.
Sutton & Sons’ seed grounds at Reading, and as it was then still hot and
dry the result showed that this Phacelia is a capital dry weather
annual. It is also very hardy, for if sown so late as the end of
September the plants will pass an ordinary winter. The colour of the
cup-shaped flowers, which are about the size of those of Nemophila
insignis, is just the intense blue of Salvia patens. It is indeed a
beautiful flower. — A. D,

- French Marigolds. — We have pleasure in sending a few

blooms of our French Marigolds for your inspection. — Bobbie & Co.,
Rothesay, [The blooms sent were of excellent substance, andi the
colours perfectly defined .]

- Carnation Lottie Kiblew. — Herewith I send you flowers

of a new yellow-ground border Picotee named Lottie Kirlew, of which I
should like your opinion. — Geo. Holmes. [The flowers are very good,
and the variety will doubtless become popular when well known.]

- Viola Miss Cannell. — Mr. H. Cannell writes “ I think

you will say my Viola (Miss Cannell) is decidedly whiter andfmore
effective than the renowned Sylvia, it has a far better habit. 1 send blooms
of both.” [Though the blooms were curled up through resting in the
post over Bank Holiday the greater purity of Miss Cannell was very
apparent.]

- Golden Rocca Onion. — “ W. K. W.” writes : — “ This is a

great improvement upon Giant Rocca, and is the best variety for
autumn sowing. This opinion has been firmly fixed in my mind by the
numerous fine beds of it I have recently met with in various Norfolk
gardens, especially some splendid samples thereof at Sennowe. The
bulb is of a beautiful straw colour when mature, large in size, and
of most handsome shape. For exhibition purposes I believe it is
unequalled.”

- Continuity Lettuce. — The same correspondent observes :

— “Another good thing which has received much praise this season
from many Norfolk gardeners is Daniels’ Continuity Lettuce, a brownish
coloured Cabbage kind of good size, In spite of heat and drought
during the past months it has wherever grown developed large solid
heads, which appear to stand longer than those of any other known
variety.”

- Campanula grandiflora Mariesi. — Referring to the

plant figured on page 103 last week, Mr. George Paul writes from The
“ Old ” Nurseries, Cheshunt : — “ I think the plant is Japanese, and was
introduced by Maries. It is a dwarf hardy form of Platycodon grandi¬
flora. I think it wants the south slope of a rockwork, and probably,
having done so well this year, likes a warm summer. These Japanese
plants vary much, probably from the island they come from, but I should
think they would like England to be just a little warmer to feel quite
at home.”

- Meteorological Observations at Hodsock Priory,

Worksop, Notts, for July, 1893. — Mean tempersture of the month,
60 9°. Maximum on the 18th, 8P7°; minimum on the 28th, 42 3°,
Maximum in the sun on the 8th, 135'9° ; minimum on grass on the 28th,
35'7°. Mean temperature of air at 9 A.M., 62'5°; mean temperature of
soil 1 foot deep, 61’4°, Total duration of sunshine in the month 154
hours, or 31 per cent, of possible duration. We had three sunless days.
Total rainfall, 3-98 inches. Rain fell on eighteen days. Approximate
averages for July — Mean temperature, 60-7°. Sunshine, 160 hours.
Rainfall, 2-42 inches. A showery, wet month, rather warmer than the
last few years. — J. Mallender.

- Unripe and Decayed Fruit. — The “Lancet” says

“Nothing is more essential to method in learning than frequent
reiteration, and it is therefore needless to plead excuses in seeking
thus to impress even the elementary facts of sanitary science. It
might be supposed that by this time everyone understood the im¬
portance of observing particular care in the selection of a summer
dietary, especially as regards fruit. Hardly any question of domestic
management is either more vital or more elementary ; yet error con¬
tinually arises in this connection in the simplest way. A few days ago
a child died soon after eating Strawberries. Why ? Because the fruit
had been purchased two days previously, and, as was only to be expected,
when eaten was in a state of decay. It is impossible to resist the im¬
pression that neglect had something to do with the sad result in this
instance. Luscious fruits are particularly liable to putrefactive change,
and such thrifty processes as exposure to a cold and dry air, spreading
out and the like, suffice only to postpone decay for a brief period. We
cannot do better than point to the incident above mentioned in order
to remind the vendor and the purchaser alike that freshness is the only
certain guarantee of safety when any succulent fruit forms an article
of diet. We have not forgotten that another hardly less serious danger
of the season awaits those who indulge in fruit which is under-ripe. In
this case taste as well as judgment commonly interpose a caution the
importance of which can hardly be exaggerated. Yet here, also, the
consequences of neglect have too often been sadly apparent.”

August 10, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

125

- The Total Rainfall fok July at Abbot's Leigh,

Hayward’s Heath, Sussex, was 3 48 inches, being 0-82 inch above the
average. The hiaviest fall was 0 59 inch on the 4th ; rain fell on sixteen
■days. The highest temperature in the shade was 74° on 12th, the
minimum 42° on 28th. Mean maximum 73°, mean minimum 58 28°,
mean temperature 65-62°. Mean in the sun 83'6°. A very favourable
month. Vegetables now make rapid progress. — E. I.

- July Weather in Herts. — The past month here has main¬
tained its character of being one of the wettest months of the year.
This season the rain was much needed, and vegetation has gone forward
by leaps and bounds. The early part of the month was intensely hot.
Rain fell upon seventeen days during the month. Maximum in any
twenty-four hours, 0 72 on the 26th ; minimum in any twenty-four
hours, 0 01 on the 13th. Total during the month, 3-06, against 4-02 of
1892. — E. Wallis, The Gardens, Hamels Farh.

- The Weather Last Month. — July was very changeable

and showery, with only four really bright days. Barometer fluctuated
very much. The highest reading was 30 30 at 9 a.m. on 28th ; lowest,
29 54 at noon on 20th. Wind in a westerly direction eighteen days.
Total rainfall, 2-41 inches, which fell on twenty days, the greatest daily
fall bring 0-50 inch on the 2nd. The total is 0-31 inch below the
average for the month. Temperature in shade : highest, 87° on 7th ;
lowest, 40° on 28th ; lowest on grass, 33° on 28th. Mean daily maxi¬
mum, 69’63°; mean daily minimum, 52 64°; mean temperature of the
month, 62-27°. We had several thunderstorms. The garden spring
ran 17 gallons per minute on 31st. — W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall
Gardens, Stamford.

- Gardeners’ Orphan Fund.— The monthly meeting of the

Committee was held on the 28th ult. at the Horticultural Club, Hotel
Windsor, W. Marshall, Esq., in the chair. Matters of interest connected
with the administration of the Fund were discussed, and reserved for
further consideration. The Hon. Secretary announced the following
receipts : — From Mr. J. Lyne, local Secretary, The Gardens, Foxbury,
Chislehurst, £16 Is. ; Mr. G. W. Cummins, local Secretary, The Gardens,
The Grange, Wallington, sale of flowers at Croydon Horticultural Show,
£8 ,- collected at the Wimbledon Flower Show, £4 28. 6d. ; and box
per Mr. J. Kneller, The Gardens, Studley Royal, Ripon, 9s. The next
meeting of the Committee will be held on the last Friday in October.

- Lincoln’s Inn Fields. — The Parliamentary Committee

reported at the meeting of the London County Council, held on
August 1st, that they had been advised by the solicitor and the Par¬
liamentary agent that the way in which the Council would be most
likely to be successful in obtaining possession of Lincoln’s Inn Fields
as an open space for the public would be by seeking compulsory
powers of acquisition under the terms and provisions of the Lands
Clauses Act. They recommended that they be instructed to prepare
a Bill accordingly, and communicate with the Benchers of Lincoln’s
Inn and the trustees of the garden concerning same, and inviting
them to enter into a conditional contract for the sale of the area
within the square. This was agreed to.

- Presentation to Mr. Meehan. — On the 4th of July at

Vernon Park, Philadelphia, the citizens of that city presented to Mr.
Thomas Meehan a handsome silver plaque as a testimonial of their
appreciation of his services in establishing small parks in various
sections of the city. The plaque is of solid silver, 19 inches by 24 in
size, and framed in carved mahogany, set in a polished mahogany
shadow-box covered with plate glass. It is etched with oxidised
shading to represent the original parchment granted to William Penn.
In the central part of the top of the plaque is the following apt quota¬
tion from Penn’s letter to his Commissioners, dated September 30th,
1681 — “ That it may be a green country tow-n and always wholesome.”
We have more than once called attention to the singular value of Mr.
Meehan’s work, and we are glad to know that he is one of the prophets
who is not without honour in his own country. One of the speakers at
the presentation called attention to the extraordinary spectacle of a
man elected and re-elected to the City Council for a decade of years by the
common consent, and, in fact, by the urgent desire of the leaders of all
parties and all factions, simply because he has pursued steadily the work
for which he was fitted by his own good judgment and training. It is
rare indeed that any one man is able to do so much good in a civic
position ; rare, too, that he can command the confidence of his fellow
citizens so generally, and rarer still that they manifest such a grateful
appreciation of unselfish work. — (“ Garden and Forest.”)

- Extraordinary Fasciation in Anthemis. — We have

received from the Rev. F. E. Ainger, of Newcastle-on-Tyne, an interest¬
ing specimen of the fasciation of Anthemis Cotula. The most ordinary
example of the monstrous growth in plants known as fasciation is to be
seen in the Cockscomb. There the stalks and petioles of the plant are
all massed and confounded, while the flowers appear at the top in the
curious scarlet crest which forms the attractive feature in its cultiva¬
tion. The Anthemis Cotula sent by Mr. Ainger exhibits a similar
distortion. The stalks lie conglomerated together in a broad markedly
ribbed band, not unlike the leaf of an Iris, of about a foot in length,
and surmounted by a dull yellow crest similar to that of the Cocks¬
comb. All around the massed stalks appears a network resembling a
parasite, but which is in reality an excess of the leaves, petioles, and
flowers of the Anthemis remaining incorporated with the other solidified
portions. At a superficial glance the whole looks like an Anthemis
climbing. Dodder-wise, round a flag, but the terminal cristate growth
upsets this theory.

- Burnt Fruit at the World’s Fair.— The only exhibitor’s

fruits saved from the burning of the Cold Storage Building at the
World’s Fair were, says an American exchange, about five barrels of
winter Apples, belonging to New York, which were dug from the ruins
three or four days after the fire. These Apples were put on exhibition,
and they now occupy about 350 plates on the tables formerly used for
the Lemon display of Riverside County, California. They are still in
presentable condition, and include Baldwin, Roxbury Russet, English
Russet, Golden Russet, and Campfield. California has received Oranges
from the Pacific coast to supply her loss in the fire.

- Mushrooms and Tomatoes.— Have you ever tried Mush¬
rooms and Tomatoes cooked together ? If not, says a writer in “ Truth,’’
you will thank me for this recipe : — Remove the peel and stalks from
seven or eight good sized fresh Mushrooms ; lay them, the hollow part
upward, on a buttered saut^-pan, put a small piece of butter on each,
season with salt and pepper, cover with a lid and cook them in a hot
oven for twenty minutes. Meanwhile prepare a similar number of
round pieces of toast buttered on both sides. Fry an equal quantity of
thick slices of ripe Tomatoes. Now place a slice of Tomato on each
piece of toast, and finish with a Mushroom on the top. Dish on a white
paper and serve very hot.

- The Siberian Crab as an Ornamental Treb.— The great

utility of this tree as an ornament in the garden. It is evident that it
is appreciated by A. W. Smee, Esq., The Grange, Hackbridge, as many
trees are to be seen in his garden. At the present time the fruits are
just ripening — a month earlier than is customary — and the sight
presented is a very beautiful and at the same time a very unique one.
Planted here and there on the borders the trees are universally admired.
Apart from their beauty, it should be borne in mind that from the fruits
a most toothsome and nourishing jelly can be made ; the tree, therefore,
has two points at the least which render it desirable in every garden —
it is pleasing to the eye and also to the palate. — H. W.

- Clerodendron fallax. — "W. B.” writes: — Seedlings of

this plant should not be allowed to become checked in small pots, or
they will fail to do satisfactorily. To grow these plants well they
should be potted directly they need more root room, when they will
abundantly repay for the care bestowed upon them by the large scarlet
trusses they are capable of producing. These plants in their early
stages ought to be grown in heat, and afterwards in an intermediate
temperature. They must be kept growing freely from the first to the
time they show flower. When the plants are in full growth the points
may be removed, and the plants induced to branch. It is useless
pinching them after they show flower, especially if the plants have
become woody through checking them.

- Battersea Amateurs’ Horticultural Societf. — This

Society held its first annual summer Show on Bank Holiday in a field
kindly lent for the occasion by Percy Thornton, Esq., M.P. The number
of exhibits was large, some good plants being shown by the amateurs o
the district. A charming group of plants was arranged by Mr. W. Wels-
ford, Binfield and Lansdowne Nurseries, South Lambeth, which included
amongst others perennial Phloxes, Asters, Delphiniums, Hydrangeas,
and stove and greenhouse plants in great variety. Mr. G. B. Fischer,
florist, 30, High Street, Clapham, staged a highly creditable collection of
stove and greenhouse foliage plants, as also did Mr. W. Charman,
gardener to H. Russell, Esq., Beechwood, Clapham Common. A fine
collection of Ferns was shown by Mr. Brown, gardener to H. Ravenhill,
Esq. Clapham Common.

126

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 10, 1898»

- Wasps. — A wasp plague continues to cause great inconvenience

in the neighbourhood of Dover. A curious incident, says a daily con¬
temporary, happened on Saturday in a village near Sandwich. A
labourer discovered a wasp’s nest, and struck with the beauty of its
formation instantly took it home and carelessly put it aside, with the
object of taking it to a naturalist. The nest proved to be full of eggs,
which the warmth of the house developed during the night into
hundreds of wasps. When the family awoke in the morning the house
was swarming with wasps, and the family had to make their escape as
best they could. Some of them were severely stung. We do not think
this man will take home another wasp’s nest.

- Gardening at the World’s Fair. — The picturesque dwarf

trees of Japan interested me greatly. One old Cypress, 300 years old,
perished during the winter, but there were some ancient crooked Maples,
about a foot high, and a Pine tree with gnarled branches and massive
roots that would have adorned a forest in Lilliput, for they were not
more than 18 inches high. Every leaf had been carefully trained on the
Maple, and the pine-needles were held imperceptibly in place to
produce that fine cushiony effect that is so highly prized. It seemed
like looking at some venerable monarch of the forest through the
reverse end of an opera-glass, so perfectly did the Lilliputian tree
reproduce all the storm-wrought eccentricities of the great one.
Among other curious objects says a writer in “ Garden and Forest” was
the exact model of a Japanese garden, quaintly rendered, with little
figures crossing its toy bridges or lingering by its tiny lake. Here were
the hillocks, the cascades, the stone lamps, the sheet of water, the
smooth stones, the summer houses hidden in the clumps of trees, the
flowering shrubs, the groups of Irises by the water’s edge — a complete
and fanciful little pleasure ground within the circumference of a large
round table.

- Ewell Horticultural Society. — The twenty-ninth annual

Exhibition of this Surrey Society was held on a nice fine day on the
beautiful grounds of The Grove, the residence of the ex-Lord Mayor,
Sir D. Evans. The grounds were thrown open to the public, and their
entire keep, which is really first-rate, reflects on the gardener, Mr. Quin¬
ton, the highest credit. Of plant groups there was a very fine one sent
by Messrs. J. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, of Begonias, Gloxinias, Cala-
diums. Foliage plants — i.e., of the competing groups — the largest and
best was set up by Mr. Whiteman, gardener to A. W. Gadesden, Esq.
Mr. Worsfold, gardener to Lady Glyn, coming second with a charming
arrangement ; and Mr. Quinton was third. Mr. Whiteman had the best
six foliage and flowering plants ; also the best six Begonias, excellent
specimens, and the best six Fuchsias. Mr. Quinton had six superbly
flowered Zonal Pelargoniums, some 3 feet through, and well grown.
Several noble Palms sent by Mr. Whiteman helped to decorate the
flower tent. Hardy flowers were in capital form, the best twelve bunches
coming from Mr. Worsfold, whose selection and setting up were ex¬
cellent. Mr. Elsey, gardener to Miss Carlisle, was second. Mr. Worsfold
had the best twelve bunches of annuals, a capital lot of flowers, Mr.
Elsey again being second. Mr. Quinton was a good first with four
dishes of fruit, having finely finished Alicante Grapes, Eoyal George
Peaches, Elruge Nectarines, and Jargonelle Pears ; Mr. Worsfold was
second. Vegetables all round were excellent, and one class is men¬
tioned elsewhere. An odd class was that for head gardeners’ bouquets,
the best coming from Mr. Whiteman, whilst in the class for under
gardeners’ bouquets Mr. Simmonds, from the same place, was first, both
being admirably arranged. After the usual presentation of prizes,
kindly performed by Lady Evans on the lawn, Mr. A. Dean, for the
Surrey County Council, gave a short address relating to gardening, for
which, on the proposal of Mr. David Evans, a cordial vote of thanks
was awarded.

- Exhibiting Vegetables. — For a pretty, neat, compact

method of showing vegetables I have seen none better than was found
last week at the Ewell Show, where five lots of six kinds were set up
in large punnets, or rather shallow white baskets, 12 inches over. It is
a requirement of the schedule that the exhibits shall be so displayed,
hence the result is uniformity in appearance, if not in quality. Again,
the size of the, punnets used checks the exhibiting of products of undue
dimensions, which is an excellent result. The class being for gardeners
capital exhibits were staged. Mr. H. Pedrick, gardener to Col. Norbury
Pott, had for the season good Cauliflowers, Scarlet Kunners, G. F.
Wilson Peas, Perfection Tomatoes, Ashleaf Potatoes, and pretty white
Marrows. Mr. Ay ling, gardener to W. M. Waiters, Esq., who came
second, had capital Satisfaction Potatoes, Canadian Wonder Dwarf
Beans and white Turnips.— A. D.

- Ailantus glandulosa in America. — Superintendent

W. E. Smith of the Washington Botanic Garden says that Ailantus-
glandulosa is of all trees the one for narrow streets. Its large foliaceous
development keeps it vigorous and healthy. The only objection to it
is the unpleasant fragrance of the flowers. This can be entirely
avoided by treating the tree as a pollard, as is the custom in Paris. It
never flowers because of the pruning. The law made by Congress
against its being planted in Washington was owing to the influence, we
believe, of a well written article by Mr. Downing. Don Piatt was,
perhaps, the last to dare the law and plant one of these trees in the
aristocratic quarter of Washington. His keen sarcasm, which found
expression in his paper known as “ The Capitol,” prevented the
authorities from interfering with him. — (“ Garden and Forest.”)

- Sweet Lavender. — The cry of “Sweet Lavender” heralds

the close of the summer season, and old-fashioned housewives will be
garnering their store of scented blossom to perfume linen presses and.
wardrobes, and for the more prosaic routing of the destructive moth.
Lavender derived from the English plant, whose scientific name is
Lavandula vera, has many medicinal properties, which make it valuable
as a corrective adjunct to other medicines, while alone it is aromatic
carminative, and stimulative. The oil distilled from the Lavender
plant is valuable in hair lotions, and the following recipe, says the
“ Lady,” will be found admirable to stimulate the growth of thin or
weakly hair ; — Oil of Lavender, 6 dr. ; lard, melted with twenty drops
oil of Nutmeg, 1 oz. ; Cocoa butter, 5 dr. Lavender is highly antiseptic,
and therefore invaluable in the sick room ; but it must be the pure
extract, and not the artificial product which now figures largely in,
perfumery, and is obtained from petroleum and other sources. Artificial
perfumes have a heavier and less agreeable odour than the natural ones,
however skilfully manipulated, and excessive use causes headache and
dizziness ; while the natural odour obtained from Lavender is most
soothing in headache and lassitude. Very few people are aware of the
virtues of Lavender as a skin lotion and cosmetic. A little strong,
good Lavender water, diluted with about an equal quantity of water,
forms a valuable wash for the skin where the pores are enlarged or
after exposure to the sun. The skin may also be bathed with a solution
of Lavender water when heated or inflamed, and during severe bilious
headaches, or in the agonies of mal de mer, much relief is obtained by
bathing the throat, forehead, and temples with good Lavender water,
while a spray is most refreshing to travellers by land and sea.

- Starch Formation. — When a leaf is exposed to sunlight it

is well known that among the earliest changes noticeable is the forma¬
tion of starch ,• and, further, that this starch production is stopped by
placing the leaf in the dark, so that if half of the surface of the leaf be
exposed to the sun, and the other half be covered with opaque paper,
the uncovered half will contain starch, while none will be formed in the
covered portion, and that which it had previously will disappear. It
had come almost to be an article of faith, says the “Gardeners
Chronicle,” that this starch formation was the primary and universal
result in the process of “ assimilation,” which is consequent upon the
exposure of the green material (chlorophyll) to light, and the elimination
of oxygen. Working physiologists, indeed, were more cautious in their
utterances than text-book writers and teachers. It now appears from
the recent researches of Messrs. H. T. Brown and G. H. Morris, as
presented to the Chemical Society in April last, that cane sugar is the
first product (and not glucose, as had been by many supposed), and aa
this sugar is formed faster than it can be utilised, the excess is deposited
in the form of starch. This reserve of starch is drawn upon when the
light fails, the starch being then dissolved by a ferment, or “enzyme,”
known as diastase, which is secreted by the protoplasm of the cell in
amount proportionate to the needs of the case, so that the formation of
diastase is looked on as an effort to remedy the consequences of defective
nutrition. The course of events in the process of assimilation appears
to be, first, formation of soluble cane-sugar, then deposition of insoluble
starch, followed by formation of diastase-ferment, which dissolves the
starch and allows of its transmission in a fluid state, or as sugar, from
the place at which it is stored to the place where it is used up in the
processes of growth and activity, which demand supplies of nourishment
for their fulfilment.

DIANTHUS CALLIZONUS.

Though this beautiful alpine Pink was discovered nearly half a
century ago it is still new and rare in gardens. It is a native of
Transylvania, where it is found at an elevation of 6000 to 7500 feet.
It has a certain resemblance to D. alpinus, but the flowers are half
as large again, and altogether it is a finer and more robust plant.

August 10, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

127

The flowers are of a bright rose-purple with a darker zone speckled
with white round the throat. The leaves are lanceolate and glaucous,
like those of D. cassius.

The plant forms dense tufts and flowers very freely. As it possesses
a robust constitution, is quite hardy, and will thrive in almost any
situation, it will no doubt soon become a common garden plant. It
strikes freely from cuttings. It is certainly the finest alpine Pink at
present in cultivation. The engraving (fig. 19) was prepared from a
sketch of a plant growing in the Royal Gardens, Kew. — A. B.

HARDY FLOWERS IN MASSES.

Although an extensive collection of hardy flowering plants pro¬
duces a bright and continuous display in the herbaceous border, yet
when we see large masses of individual kinds by themselves we think

down the names of a few of the [many interesting plants there to be
found. Mr. Ladhams makes a point of adding to his collection all new
or improved types of recently introduced kinds, which renders a visit
all the more interesting.

Amongst the Campanula family the newer Platycodon grandiflora
pumila Mariesi is superior to most other forms. This Japanese variety
grows barely 2 feet high, and bears very large pure white blossoms, 'and
is quite self-supporting. The pale blue and rich purple forms make a bold
display in large masses. C. persicifolium album grandiflora has flowers
fully twice the size of the old variety, and is therefore a decided improve¬
ment. C. latifolia macrantha has rich purple flowers, quite the best of
the type. That pretty, dwarf, free-flowering, double Sweet William —
Dianthus barbatus magnificus — with its intensely deep crimson flower
heads, deserves more attention than it receives at present. The yellow
Foxglove, Digitalis aurea, is represented by one named grandiflora, and
is receiving some attention, as Foxgloves of this colour with reasonable
sized blooms are none too common. The older D. ferruginea has blooms

Fig. 19.— dianthus CALLIZONUS.

they are even then more effective than when isolated perhaps in the
mixed border. It is not, however, in private gardens that we must look
for extra large clumps of any one particular kind, such as, for instance,
a patch of Heuchera sanguinea 30 feet long and 3 feet wide, a mass of
its gorgeous colour ; space does not admit of this form of arrangement,
even if the means did. Although half a dozen plants of this gem make
a bold display in a favourable nook in the rockery or in the ordinary
border, one cannot compare the effect with that of the larger mass.

A hasty look through the herbaceous department of the nursery of
Mr. B. Ladhams, Shirley, near Southampton, who has devoted much
time and space to this section of flower growing to meet the great
demand caused by the increasing love for hardy flowering plants, gives
one much insight into the many varieties and kinds now so largely
cultivated as seen growing side by side. The beds are arranged
parallel to each other in varying lengths, all 3 feet wide, for the sake
of convenience in planting and attention. Much of the ground
occupied for this purpose was once a huge gravel pit, and to see the
shingle-like soil it is surprising how well the different plants thrive.
In spite of the remarkably dry season a bright display has been
maintained, showing well the holding character of the soil, which
is kept well stirred, and thus prevents the evaporation of moisture
to a great extent. For the benefit of readers of the Journal I jotted

far too small and rusty looking to be attractive, Agrostemma coeli-
rosea is particularly bright and showy. The rose-coloured form of
Veronica spicata is bright in a mass, growing from 1 to 2 feet high, and
entirely self-supporting.

The Statice family receives a good deal of attention. The flowers are
found so useful in a dry state for winter decoration, for if cut when
fully developed they retain their natural colour for a couple of years.
S. incana nana is the best of the type, the large spreading heads of
flower give such a variety in colour. Some especially deep in tint were
being preserved for future use in hybridising. In the same way the
Eryngiums are employed, amethystinum and giganteum varieties were
being cut in masses. A grand patch of Erigeron aurantiacum was just
over, another of E. philadelphicus was a sight to behold, growing only
1 foot high, and freely flowered ; this is quite one of the best of the
family. Dracocephalumvirginianum album, sometimes called Physostegia,
is worthy of a place in any collection large or small ; its pure white
flowers deserve to be appreciated. Gaillardias occupy much space ; the
grandiflora type is the more showy either when growing or in a cut
state, but a stock of the pale yellow double-flowered Vivian Grey
demands more than a passing notice. Plants of Achillea The Pearl are
to be seen advancing to the flowering stage. Anthericum liliastrum,
with its tiny blossoms of pure white, contrasts well with its more showy

128

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 10, 1893.

neighbours ; this variety is by some preferred to the larger-bloomed
A. L. major. Masses of the yellow Aquilegia chrysantha, a remarkably
interesting plant, and perhaps still the best of the Columbine family, were
quite charming. Asphodelus luteus and ramosus are showy and quaint.
Astrantias are generally neglected plants in private gardens, but large
batches of them are grown to meet the demand, as their merits are
appreciated. By far the best of the perennial Cornflowers is the soft
yellow variety ruthenica, the flowers being useful for cutting.

Chelone barbata, one of the most distinct and showy of hardy
plants, is represented by spikes of bloom from 3 feet to 4 feet high.
The merits of Chrysanthemums maximum and the later flowered variety
latifolium are here thoroughly recognised, large batches of both are
cultivated to meet the increasing demand. The present is not a good
year for Delphiniums, the flower spikes being rather poor. Thousands
of seedlings are raised annually, selected from approved strains, and
these small plants withstood the unfavourable weather well. Dictamnus
fraxinella is a showy plant, not nearly enough grown.

Gypsophila paniculata is a plant growing in favour, it is so useful
for cutting and mixing with other flowers. A very pretty dwarf growing
white flowered Galega was noticeable, its compact habit rendering it
worthy of culture. Huge masses of Helenium pumilum were in gorgeous
array, the rich yellow flowers were so freely produced at this early
date. Hyacinthus candicans was throwing up numerous flower spikes,
the bulbs having withstood the sharp frost of the last winter quite
unharmed. In heavy soil the bulbs refuse to live over one year with me.
Linum campanulatum grandiflorum has flowers like the old blue
perennial variety in form, but much larger, and being yellow it is a
striking plant, growing near 2 feet high. The drooping point of the
pure white spikes of Lysimachia clethroides at once arrests attention of
hardy plant lovers. This is of vigorous growth, a single root quickly
spreading a long way. Michauxia campanulata is well worth attention,
the bluish white, bell-shaped flowers are distinctly attractive. A very
pretty early flowering and dwarf growing Phlox is Penge, the individual
flowers being quite round, pure white, except the oculated eye, height
2 feet. The Evening Primroses, (Enothera riparia and speciosa, are
charming plants, the former for the rockery, where its freely produced
bright yellow blossoms are most conspicuous. The latter has large pure
white flowers growing 2 feet high. The somewhat rare Onosma taurica
appears to succeed well, its pure yellow, drop-like flowers are decidedly
attractive. Poppies are extensively grown, especially noteworthy
being pilosa, a dwarf growing variety with terra cotta coloured
flowers.

Mr. Ladhams devotes much time to the cultivation of border Pinks,
having raised many seedlings, the best of which is Ernest Ladhams,
certificated last year. He has crossed some with the ordinary type of
Dianthus chinensis in the hope of producing richer colouring. Nelly, a
clearly marked variety, is highly prized. This is one of the most
deserving races of plants we have in the hardy plant department,
because they come within the range of all persons. — E. Molyneux.

LADY PAGET’S PLEA FOR VEGETARIANISM.

In promulgating the evangel of vegetarianism we shall scarcely be
considered as betraying the interests of the readers of this paper. We
have, therefore, much pleasure in reproducing from an interview
published in the “ Westminster Gazette ” some of the opinions of Lady
Augustus Paget, who throws herself into the cause with that whole¬
heartedness characteristic of women. Lady Paget is by birth a German,
and perhaps much experience of German cookery may have the effect
of causing a delicate stomach to incline to the more etherial food of
Arcadia. Certainly there are acts entailed by the persistence in a
carnivorous diet which shock the humaner sensibilities of the mind
when the consideration of these acts is not deliberately ignored. If each
of the radiant dehutantes at a fashionable ball had helped to kill and
cook the viands so delicately proffered to them by their cavaliers in the
supper-room, we fancy that the wings of those gentlemen’s imaginations
would not soar so freely, nor would they accept all the glamour thrown
over the funccion in the columns of the “ Lady ” or the “ Gentlewoman.”
Romance is, however, a difficult plant to scotch, and thrives even
amongst professional cooks and butchers. Such is the inconsistency of
the human mind that doctors and nurses have their glorious illusions
regarding the patients they are tending, and even the common hangman
is capable of falling in love.

Lady Paget was apparently awakened to the general want of logic
on the subject of flesh-eating by the description of the cruelties of the
trans-Atlantic cattle trade. She overlooks, however, the difficulties
which will have to be encountered from the absence of leather and
fiddle-strings should the slaughter of animals ever be discontinued in
deference to the prejudices of vegetarians. In the course of the inter¬
view she says, “ I believe that vegetable diet has a decided action upon
the mind. In a kind of way it dematerialises the mind. The grosser
elements are kept in subjection and the spiritual rises predominant. A
person troubled with a torpid mind ought at once to become a vegetarian.
I have known many cases where it has been most beneficial. I believe,
too, that a vegetable diet enables one to bear hardships and fatigue ;
this has been demonstrated very forcibly by the long-distance walk from
Berlin to Vienna, in which vegetarians have triumphed so gloriously.
Since I have abstained from eating flesh food I can climb hills with
great ease and never get out of breath. Then, how convenient it is in
travelling to be able to make a meal off a piece of bread and an Apple I
It renders one so charmingly independent, and lifts a load of care off

your mind to have no thought about cooks and hotel dinners. There is
another little point, too, which may have great weight with some people
— vegetarians have invariably bright, clear complexions ; they have no
need of cosmetics.

“ I cannot emphasise too often that meat diet trammels and material¬
ises our higher faculties. Vegetarians may be eccentric, they may be
faddists ; but they are invariably gentle, high-minded, well-disposed
people. I believe that the practice of vegetarianism will play a most
important part in refining the masses and rendering them less coarse and
less brutal. In the olden days men ate great lumps of flesh almost raw ;
now we have developed cooking to an art which has robbed meat of its
old repulsive grossness ; and, in my opinion, the process of evolution
will go on until we come to exclude it altogether from our diet. We are
to eat in its place fruits, cereals, vegetables, butter, milk, cream, eggs,
cheese, and wholemeal bread. There is one great difficulty in this
country — you do not get sufficient fruit ripened in the sun. Look at
the Italians ; in their sunny clime they live upon fruit ; and how
healthy they are, and how beautiful are their teeth and complexions !
I have several little fancies about fruit. It ought to be eaten when
freshly gathered, and if possible every person should pick for himself.
I never believe that an Apple affords me the same nourishment if it is
picked up by the gardener, sorted by the housekeeper, and so passed on
to table through many hands. I believe that to get the vital principle
of a fruit you must pick it from the tree with your own hands and eat
it immediately. Part of its vital essences are lost if it is kept, or if it
passes through the hands of others. Fruits are the only edibles we can
eat and digest without cooking ; everything else requires the aid of fire
to make it palatable and wholesome. I believe that the movement in
England is much impeded by the inadequate way in which the vegetables
are cooked, and until this defect is thoroughly remedied, and a greater
variety is introduced into the vegetarian bill of fare, there is not much
prospect of extending it amongst the poorer classes, to whom it would
be such a great boon.

“ My country people, the Germans, are taking up vegetarianism very
thoroughly on the ground of health. It was a German professor who
first aroused me to interest in the subject, and it has been in German
books that I have studied the question. These books are refreshing as
mountain air ; they are full of cold water, open windows, sun baths, air
baths, swimming and gymnastics, everything on the simplest and most
economical lines. Their chief object is to bring us back to a healthier
and simpler mode of life. The German vegetarian books are full of
excellent recipes for dishes of all kinds, suited to every time of the year,
and to different countries, which is most important, for the new-fledged
vegetarian always thinks he is going to die of hunger. It is certain
that the giving up of animal food cures many illnesses which no medicines
can touch. In affections of the heart it is often the only remedy. This
is not difficult to explain, when one reflects that, whilst the meat-eater’s
heart has seventy-two beats in the minute, the vegetarian’s has only
fifty-eight beats, being 20,000 beats less in the course of the twenty-four
hours. Insomnia and nervousness are affected in the same way — there
is less wear and more repose in the constitution. For diseases of the
skin a vegetable diet does marvels. I work a good deal amongst the sick
poor, and have been most successful in my treatment. I apply the
simple remedies, such as nettle tea and camomile tea, and persuade my
patients to live on vegetable fare and study ventilation and exercise. I
always stop their fat bacon. I believe it to be one of the most fruitful
sources of skin disease amongst the poor.”

A SUMMER VISIT TO SENNOWE.

This, the beautiful seat of B. Le Neve Foster, Esq., J.P., has been
previously alluded to. It is now becoming celebrated on account of
the success achieved by the gardener Mr. Gilbert during the past two
seasons as a grower and exhibitor of Chrysanthemums. Being in the
near neighbourhood a few days since I took the opportunity afforded to
call and see what are the prospects for the coming season.

Some 800 Chrysanthemums are being grown, and judging from
present appearances Mr. Gilbert will again occupy an honourable position
amongst front rank exhibitors. Most of the best new varieties of the
season are included in the collection, and also many seedlings, some of
which already show distinct and promising characteristics in habit of
growth and in foliage. About fifty plants of the beautiful new white
Japanese variety Mrs. B, Le Neve Foster give promise of producing
grand flowers. The whole of the plants are remarkable for their dwarf
sturdy habit, and the exceptionally stout leathery foliage. The principal
distinctive features of the method of cultivation are giving small shifts
in potting, so as to ensure eventually the whole ball of soil being well
filled with roots ; judicious watering, and abstaining from feeding until
after the buds are “ taken ” and commence swelling.

The span-roofed house in which most of the Japanese varieties are
flowered contains trees that are now producing a magnificent crop of
Peaches and Nectarines. It is estimated that there are from 1200 to
1300 fruits on the trees. The house is 49 feet long, 16 feet wide, and
10 feet high to the central ridge. Notwithstanding the excessively
heavy crop of fruit the trees are developing plenty of good wood for
another season’s work, showing that their powers are not unduly
taxed. It seems to me that the stimulants given to the Chrys¬
anthemums standing thickly together upon the borders in the autumn
serve usefully and efficiently to feed the Peach trees also, and this
supports the theory that feeding the roots of fruit trees is best effected
by supplies of liquid manure in the autumn and winter. — W. K. W.

August 10, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

129

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Chrysanthemum Prospects,

In my opinion the Chrysanthemum season will not be a late one.
Nearly all my plants showed the crown buds some fourteen days ago,
and were not taken. The only variety in my collection that has behaved
to me in the ordinary way this season is Boule d’Or (6 feet high) ; this
showed the crown bud on August 5th, which of course I took. Japanese
seem to have grown taller than usual. Mdlle. Lacroix is 8 feet high,
Florence Davis 7 feet high, Btoile de Lyon 6 feet 6 inches, Gloire
du Eocher 7 feet, Stanstead White 6 feet. Sunflower 6 feet, Avalanche
5 feet 6 inches, Viviand Morel 6 feet (after being cut down). In the
case of the incurved some have grown exceptionally tall, notably Miss
M. A. Haggas, Violet Tomlin, and Princess of Wales, all of which are
over 7 feet at the present time. They had a plentiful supply of water
during the excessively hot and dry weather. The incurves I have
mentioned went 4 feet high before they made a natural break. —
F. W. Buckingham, lonlridge^ Kent.

A SEASON which has thrown the gardening world out of gear must
have more or less effect on the Chrysanthemum, and be the cause of
corresponding anxiety to exhibitors of the Autumn Queen, emphasised
at this crucial period of bud-taking : hence, I take it that notes in the
Journal are looked for with more than ordinary interest, though
growers in normal seasons to come may regard their notebooks of ’93
more as a curiosity than a guide.

Here with 500 plants grown for large flowers, the wood is unusually
short-jointed, and the foliage is all that one could desire. The second
crown bud is the one I usually go for, but many showed that early in
July, and in those cases we are right with a third crown. This obtains
with Etoile de Lyon, E. Molyneux, and L. Boehmer, while Avalanche,
Mons. Bernard, Mrs. Jameson, Mrs. Clarke, and Col. Smith should be
right on the second crown, not yet prominent. Florence Davis,
Stanstead White, and some few of Mrs. Hardy are the principal buds
taken (on August 3rd) so far. These were pinched plants, and generally
difficult to get out in time with us. Amongst incurves, Violet Tomlin,
Miss Haggas, Mrs. Heale, and the Princess family generally are not
affected by the season, but Jeanne d’Arc is now going for a third bud
which I fear will be rather early, and many other incurves will have to
be taken on terminals. Robert Cannell and Viviand Morell threw buds at
every joint in the spring, and had to be cut to the base. They now have
from three to five shoots 2 feet high, and should give a good bud.
Amongst the leading varieties in each section some have been stopped
or otherwise treated that whatever betides there will be a difference of
time of opening in some plants of each variety, and if any lessons are to
be learned this year, not the least important may be of having two
strings to one’s bow.

I trust the Editor will in this department be deluged with copious
notes, if only to shut out those belligerent rosarians. — E. K,, Dublin.

[We wonder what the rosarians will say about this proposition ?
We think we can find a fair field for both great floral parties to state
their views on matters of current public interest. Let the notes come.]

Chrysanthemum Leaves Infested with Eelworm.

On examining the freshest of the leaves sent by “ Chrysanthemum ”
it had the appearance shown at A, natural size. The lower part a, of
the leaf and its footstalk b was found perfectly healthy, the texture
thick and leathery, and tbe epidermis stout and elastic. The upper half c,
represented in black, however, was discoloured dark brown or black on
the upper surface, and clammy, whilst the under side of that part of
the leaf was found to) be green and apparently healthy. Tested
microscopically, nothing was revealed externally beyond a stunted,
swollen, distorted growth of the leaf hairs, on the upper discoloured
surface. The stomata on the under side of the discoloured portion of
the leaf were swollen, closed, and the hairs mere stumps. There could
not be any doubt as to the disease being similar to that produced by
water hanging on the leaves for a considerable time. This would have
satisfied me at one time (and that not remote) that it was a case of
disorganised tissue, the consequence of a bad condition of the soil and
roots, but that day has gone for ever.

Taking the finest possible section through a diseased portion of the
leaf, as shown by the white line at d, and placing that on edge on a
glass slide, I was simply astonished to find an eelworm writhing amid
the leaf hairs and forming itself into a “sailor’s knot,’’ which has so
often been well figured by Mr. G. W. Smith, and others, that it is need¬
less to repeat it here. On subjecting the section to an alcoholic solution
the bodies as shown from e-i, were disclosed. In e is seen the smaller
forms of eelworms present ; /, male; y, females; A A, cysts or eggs ; Ax,
an undetermined body, probably a female emerging from the egg ; i, leaf
hairs distorted and broken off in making the section. These last are
generally figured as females ; such is not the case, but the eelworms
probably emerge from the leaves through the leaf hairs, which they
evidently convert into galls ; anywise they are greatly distorted and

often lie almost flat on the discoloured portion of the leaf, and in the
clammy substance among the hairs the eelworm may occasionally be
found.

At B is shown a small section of the leaf tissue ; y, cells invaded ;
A, eelworm ; I, cysts ; m, unattacked cells ; n, cells and tissue completely
destroyed by eelworms ; o, eggs or cysts. The disease first appears as
spots, these soon spread over the whole leaf until it withers. The
change is more rapid after rain. Excessive wet favours the entrance of
the eelworm into the leaf, for I deny that an eelworm can enter a plant
by its root hairs, and it takes very little in any other way from the
soil. Eelworms are found in root nodosities of Clover, Cucumbers,
Melons, Tomatoes, and Vegetable Marrows, but there is no evidence that
they can pass from root nodosities through the tissues of the plant to
the leaf. That is a phase of the subject which remains as yet un¬
explained ; yet the eelworm gets into the leaves of Carnations somehow,
certainly not by the root nodosities, for there are none ; nor are there
any on Chrysanthemum roots, for they may be and usually are un¬
attacked by eelworm. If the eelworm makes any attempt to ascend the
stem internally it must do so by destroying the plant cells, and the stem
becomes distorted and clammy externally, and the plants collapse
suddenly.

There is no reason culturally for this attack, which is most virulent
on the Princess family. Yet the plants are, as shown, infested with the
eelworm. The species evidently is a distinct one, closer related to
Heterodera radicola, Muller, than to Tylenchus devastatrix, but of this
there is doubt, and the leaves were too far gone to render “ culture ”
desirable. The only thing to do with the leaves is to pick off those

Fig. 20.

diseased and burn them, then spray with Bordeaux mixture. This would
prevent any further attack if it did not actually destroy the eelworms
in the tissues, for a small portion of copper must be absorbed, and the
slightest is fatal to eelworms as well as most other parasites.

Kainit is the only thing likely to benefit the plants at their roots, or
a ley formed by steeping wood ashes in water for a few days, then pour
off the supernatent* liquor and water the plants with it. A quart of
wood ashes to a gallon of water, not counting the water necessary to
form the ashes into a paste, would be sufficiently strong, but it is more
likely the eelworms infest the site upon which the plants are stood
rather the soil in the pots. A pinch of kainit between the thumb and two
forefingers sprinkled on the surface of each pot and washed in might
be of benefit if the eelworms infest the roots. It, however, requires to
be used with judgment, taking care not to give an overdose. — G. Abbey.

IN OTHER LANDS.

A CORRESPONDENT writes : — After reading with pleasure, as I am
sure others have done, the interesting notes on “ Other Lands ” in recent
issues of the Journal, I am impelled to send a record of the journeyings of
Mr. C. Napier Bell, abridged from a New Zealand paper, “ The Christ¬
church Press,” and which appears to well depict the characteristic
features of a great and important colony. It is as follows : —

The Far West op New South Wales.

Having seen enough of Sydney I took train on the western line in
order to take a view of the interior as far as Bourke. Starting from
Eedfern station, for the first nine or ten miles there is a succession of
towns forming the suburbs, these contain handsome houses and fine
villas, surrounded with gardens and shade trees, in which one sees a
strange mixture of tropical and temperate plants, the beautiful crimson
Hibiscus, with Palms of different sorts among Roses, Hawthorn, Elm
and Pine trees. At Parramatta is the junction of the line which goes to
Newcastle and Brisbane, and beyond this the country is partly culti¬
vated and partly in pasture, being covered with a beautiful sward of

130

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 10, 1893.

grass ; several pretty villages are passed, and the country is watered by
many sluggish creeks of dirty brown water. There are also large patches
od original bush. Crossing the Nepean river and the Emu Plains, we
arrive at the foot of the Blue Mountains, thirty-seven miles from Sydney.
The line ascends a spur of the hills, and when the train has climbed
some 400 feet high there is a beautiful view of the Emu Plains and the
great expanse of level country extending as far as the eye can reach
towards the sea. In the distance the country looks as if covered with
bush, ridge upon ridge, but near by it is seen to be cultivated and
occupied with innumerable orchards of Orange, Lemon, Vines, and fields
of Maize, Lucerne, Sorghum, &c.

At Springwood we are at a height of 1200 feet, and the air is already
fresh and eool ; this is a pretty township, surrounded with clearings out
of the forest, in which Oranges and Lemons are cultivated. As we rush
through the woods we see cottages peeping through clearings ; small
farms here and there with Maize, Potatoes, Pumpkins, Melons, and
Oranges, and we pass a picnic party, where hundreds of children are
being feasted and amused in a little vale among the bush. At Went¬
worth Falls we are 2840 feet above the sea ; here is a pretty village
built on a small flat surrounded with deep gullies, with a fine view over
a wooded country. To the south-west appears the town of Lawson, on
the same level, two miles off, and a semicircular ridge enclosing a deep
wooded valley shows the course the railway takes on top of the ridge
from this town to that. Here we see trim orchards of Apricots, Peaches,
Apples, &c., and grass fields and cottages all surrounded by the bush.
And so on to Katoomba. This is a scattered village built on a command¬
ing ridge jutting out towards the deep valley mentioned above ; there
are here some very grand hotels, as this is the favourite resort of Sydney
people seeking to avoid the heats of summer ; the elevation being
3450 feet, the air is delightfully fresh and cool, creeks and running
water are seen everywhere, not brown and sluggish, as is usual in
Australia ; but clear, sparkling, briskly flowing creeks.

Beyond Lithgow we traverse a fine valley partly cultivated and partly
covered with good pasture, here we saw very long trains loaded with
coal and others with sheep ; the valley with its village and cottages, its
grassy uplands, gardens, and orchards, surrounded with dark wooded
hills, makes a very pretty pass through a wooded, hilly district, and
again open out a country of lovely hills and vales, covered with rich
pasture and dotted over with scattered trees, making the park-like
scenery so characteristic of Australia. Crossing the Macquarrie River
we reach the town of Bathurst at 145 miles from Sydney, and 2150 feet
above the sea. This is a beautiful town built on the gently rising slopes
of the river with fine streets, shops, public buildings, and churches, and
scattered all around it are villas, cottages, and mansions, surrounded by
beautiful gardens. The valley is seven or eight miles wide, and is
bounded by grassy rolling downs. This is a very fertile district. The
river winds through this fine valley, its course marked by a Weeping
Willow, Poplar, and native trees.

Passing through fine grassy and cultivated country with several com¬
fortable looking villages, we come to George’s Plains, which consist of
high wooded ridges, grassy uplands and vales, with a good deal of culti¬
vation round scattered farm cottages. At 8 p.m. we arrive at Orange,
192 miles, and 2840 feet high. This is a flourishing town with several
fine streets, in which are some good buildings, fine shops, large hotels,
and two or three handsome churches. All the buildings are of brick, as
are almost all the towns and villages I have seen in N.S.W. This is
the prettiest country I have seen on this route ; round about the town
are many cottages and farm houses, and a few villas surrounded with
lawns, gardens, and groves of trees. The country has apparently not
been long cleared, as the fields are still encumbered with dead ring-
barked Gum Trees ; the air is deliciously fresh and cool, and the sky
without a cloud.

Leaving Orange we pass through many miles of fine country, among
orchards and fields of grass. Rape and Lucerne. All along the line
within the railway fences there is a brilliant display of Sunflowers and
Hollyhocks. We pass ten or twelve miles of dry rocky bush, then come
again to park -like glades and rolling land, a sweetly pretty country, in
this fresh, cool air and brilliant sunshine.

At Wellington we are getting down to the plains. This is a pretty
village of good brick houses and, as usual, surrounded by cottages
amidst groves of Acacia and Pepper tree ; there are wooded hills sur¬
rounding a fine vale of rich grass, with some cultivation in Lucerne and
other crops ; the soil is dark red and appears very rich. After this we
pass over to the Macquarie river, 180 feet wide, with the water standing
in pools, separated by sandy beds, and then pass through scattered bush
and wide grass fields, in which are many haystacks and a few farm
cottages ; the beautiful sweeping uplands are ploughed, showing the
dark red soil, and there are many fine fields of deep green Lucerne,
This is a beautiful part of the country, cottages are seen all along with
verandahs densely shaded with Vines and Passion-flower ; some have
walks or bowers leading from the house door to the garden gate, covered
over with Vines, and in the gardens are Sunflowers, Hollyhocks, Fig,
Quince, Peach, Apricot and Mulberry trees. I saw, also, large patches
of Pumpkins, Melons and Maize.

At Murrumbidgerie the monotony of the eternal Gum bush begins to
to_ be relieved by groves of native Pines which grow tall and straight
with a conical form like Noah’s Ark trees, and this tree is said to indi¬
cate good soil, still there is no lack of Gum Trees ; in fact, the great
Eucalyptus family has taken possession of Australia, and nothing can
dislodge it. One often hears of the danger of drought from disforesting
a country ; but Australia, the land of droughts, is all covered with bush
or scrub of one kind or another.

At Dubbo, 278 miles from Sydney and 865 feet above the sea, we are
on the great plains of the interior. The temperature is pleasantly warm,
the sky is pale blue flecked with clouds, and a balmy breeze tempers the
glaring sunshine.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

August 8th.

CONTKAEY to expectations the first of the August exhibitions was a
large and varied one, the holiday season failing to have the effect generally
anticipated. The display was a marked advance on the last one.

Fruit Committee. — Present : John Lee, Esq. (in the chair); Messrs.
T. L Saltmarsh. Joseph Cheal, Geo. Bunyard, J. Willard, Geo. Wythes,
H. Balderson, F. Lane, George Taber, Jas. Hudson, Rev. W. Wilks
and Dr. Hogg.

Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons sent an admirable collection of hardy fruit
comprising Apples, Pears, Plums, Raspberries, and Cherries. The Apples
included fine examples of Winter llawthornden, Frogmore Prolific, Lord
Grosvenor, Stirling Castle, Cellini, Lord Suffield, Seaton House, Early
Strawberry, and Domino. Amongst the Plums Sultan, Kirke’s, Belgian
Purple, Belle de Louvaine, and Early Transparent Gage were exceed¬
ingly good. A silver Knightian medal was recommended. The Apples,
it should be noted, were from pyramids in the open ground. Mr.
Nicholas, Castle Hill Gardens, South Molton, received a silver Banksian
medal for a group of splendid Pine Apples which aroused the admiration
of all present. Numerous Melons were staged. Three received awards
of merit, and are referred to below. Messrs. Cheal & Sons, Crawley,
sent a large and varied collection of Ornamental Gourds, and a splendid
display of Apples, Pears, Crabs, and Plums. The Apples were large,
handsome, and excellently coloured. Queen, Gladstone, Lady Sudeley,
Peter the Great, and White Astrachan being very fine. There were
seventy dishes in all, open ground fruit of the best quality (silver
Banksian medal). Mr. Thomas, Royal Gardens, Windsor, contributed
an excellent collection of Peaches and Nectarines representing the
produce of outdoor trees, also two seedling Melons. The Peaches and
Nectarines included Goshawk, Alexandra Noblesse,^ Stirling Castle,
Premier, Violette Hative, Grosse Mignonne, Dr. Hogg, A Bee, Bellegarde,
T6ton de Venus, Pineapple, Elruge, Lord Napier, and many other
varieties (silver Banksian medal). Messrs. G. Bunyard & Go. sent Pears
Beurr6 Gififard, Pr^coce de Tr6vouf, and Petite Marguerite, also a dish
of Lady Sudeley Apple exhibiting remarkably rich colour. The Apples
were stated to have been grown in very poor land, and received a
cultural commendation.

Floral Committee. — Present : W. Marshall, Esq. (in the chair) ;
Messrs. John Fraser, John Laing, H. Herbst, Richard Dean, George
Stevens, C. F. Bause, J. Jennings, H. B. May, Thos. Godfrey, Harry
Turner, George Paul, William Bain, Chas. E. Shea, J. T. Bennett Poe,
Thos. Baines, Henry Cannell, George Gordon, Peter Barr, and Robert
Owen.

Mr. John Forbes, nurseryman, Hawick, Scotland, arranged a
magnificent collection of Hollyhocks. Numerous varieties were shown,
all the blooms being very double and of excellent shape. Amongst the
best may be mentioned Cygnet, Miss Dawson, Walden Queen, Golden
Drop, James Macdonald, Alba Superbissima, J. M. Lindsay, Excelsior,
Conquest, Mrs. Edgar, Tecoma, Purple Prince and Earl of Breadalbane
(silver Flora medal). The same exhibitor also staged Digitalis and
Antirrhinums in variety, for which he was accorded a vote of
thanks.

An excellent feature of the Show was the collection of hardy flowers
staged by Messrs. E. D. Shuttleworth & Co., Peckham Rye, and Fleet,
Hants. This exhibit included cut Roses, amongst the best of which
were Fisher Holmes, Baroness Rothschild, Ulrich Brunner, Paul Neyron,
and Charles Lefebvre. Perennial Phloxes, Gladioli, Lilium superbum,
L. longiflorum, L. tigrinum plenum, Rudbeckia californica, Scabiosa
caucasica grandiflora, Pentstemons, Asclepias tuberosa and Helenium
pumilum (silver Banksian medal). Mr. C. Holden, 61, Warwick Road,
Ealing, exhibited a fine group of foliage and flowering plants, including
Coleus Distinction, Begonias, Ferns, Dracaenas, and Palms (vote of
thanks). Mr. H. J. Jones, Hither Green, Lewisham, sent a basket of
Zonal Pelargonium Mrs. Wright, the plants in which were carrying
very fine trusses. The same exhibitor also had a basket of Chrysan¬
themum Lady Fitzwilliam in grand condition.

Mr. J. Hudson, Gunnersbury House Gardens, Acton, showed some
magnificently flowered plants of Campanula pyramidalis and C. p. alba.
This group produced a fine effect, which was enhanced by the edging of
finely grown Aspleniums (silver-gilt Banksian medal). Messrs. Kelway
and Son, Langport, Somerset, furnished almost the whole length of one
side of the hall with blooms of Gaillardias, the best of which were
James Kelway, Topaz, Hero, Oceola, Magenta King, and Splendidissima
plena ; Eryngium plenum, Helianthus Soleil d’Or, Veronica longifolia
subsessilis, Amaryllis belladonna (Belladonna Lily), Achillea eupatoria.
Chrysanthemum maximum, Solidago altissima. Delphiniums in variety,
Centaurea montana rosea, Helenium pumilum. Dahlia serratipetala Duke
of Vork, and a truly magnificent collection of Gladioli, of which Castro,
Countess of Craven, Shakespeare, Duchess of Fife, Besler, Electra, Galatea,
Hemon, Baroness Burdett Coutts, Jas. Payne, Mrs. D’Ombrain, Lord
Hawke, Duke of Edinburgh, Jas. Wood, Leonard Kelway, Rev. H. H.
D’Ombrain, Sir F. Bolton, John Warner, Mariana, Oriana, Duchess of York,
Grover Cleveland, Mr. Fowler, J. C. V aughan, Alfred Henderson, Marengo,
and Mary Anderson were particularly striking. Several were honoured
by the Committee, and are referred to below. The same firm also showed
Gannas in good condition, amongst the best of which were Duke of

August 10, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

131

York, Comtesse de Morny, and Duchess of York (award of merit, see
below). Silver-gilt Banksian medal. Messrs. Hy. Cannell & Son
arranged a grand collection of double and single Begonias and Antir¬
rhinums. Amongst the best of the double Begonias were Octavie, Mrs.
G. Gurney, Sir Cecil Domville, Miss Baldwin, Mrs. Lette, Miss Ada
Field, and Sir J. D. Hooker. The single blooms in this exhibit were
arranged in sprays, each containing five blooms, and having Maidenhair
Fern and Asparagus plumosus as a background, thus producing a novel
and striking effect. The same firm also staged Chrysanthemums Golden
Shah, Blushing Bride, Harvest Home, and Gustave Grunerwald (silver
Flora medal). Messrs. John Laing & Son, Forest Hill, exhibited a
group of stove and greenhouse flowering and foliage plants, ineluding
Caladiums Mrs. R. Veitch, Baron de Namore, Mercedes d’Argent,
President de la Devansaye (award of merit, see below), and Reine
de Denmark ; Bertolonias Van Houtei, Comte de Kerchove, and
Madame A. Van Geert ; Caraguata cardinalis, Adiantum macrophyllum
albo-striatum, Beaufortia speciosa, Saxifraga sarmentosa tricolor
euperba, Crotons Flamingo and Morti, Fuchsia Countess of Aberdeen,
and Grevillea Banksi (first-class certificate, see below). Silver-gilt
Banksian medal.

Messrs. J. Cheal & Son, Lowfield Nurseries, Crawley, showed a
collection of Sweet Peas, double, single and Cactus Dahlias. Amongst
the best of the Cactus varieties were Ernest Cannell, Duke of Clarence,
Black Prince, and W.Rayner (silver Banksian medal). Mr. T. S. Ware,
Hale Farm Nurseries, Tottenham, staged Lilium Batemani, L. Ukeyuri,
Cactus Dahlia Ernest Glasse, C. D. Mrs. A. Peart, and Gaillardia
Surprise. Mr. C. F. Bause, Morland Nursery, South Norwood, staged
Croton Madame Ernest Bergman (see below), Caladium President de
la Devansaye (see below), and DracEena Alexander Laing (see below).
Mr. Fred. Bull, Wormiugford, Colchester, sent a hox of Carnation Golden
Nugget. Messrs. Dicksons, Limited, Chester, staged Cockscomb Sunrise,
Tropmolum Boule d’Or, Petunia Silver Queen.

Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., supported the afternoon meeting with a
collection of Cannas, many of the varieties being extremely beautiful.
Amongst them may be noted Sophie Buchner, Madame Crozy, Comte de
Ganez, Michelet (see awards), Picturata, and Professor David. He also
sent a number of Gladiolus Cbildsi varieties, noteworthy for the great
size of the flowers, particularly Seedling No. 1, a huge Allamanda-like
bloom. Mr. O’Brien showed Cyrtanthus McKenni, a fragrant little
flower not often seen. Messrs. Wallace & Co. sent Lilium auratum
Witlei and a variegated Arundo. Messrs. Dobbie & Co., Rothesay, had
one of the most pleasing displays in the Show, a large bank of garden
Carnations in bunches, and another of Sweet Peas. They had borne
their long journey well, being in beautiful condition. Nearly all the
best varieties were represented (silver Flora medal). Messrs. Paul and
Son, The Old Nurseries, Cheshunt, contributed a large and beautiful
mixed group, comprising Cannas Alphonse Bouvier, Comte de Ganez,
Paul Sigrist, Miss S. Hill, and a number of seedlings from the open
ground ; several boxes of Roses, Begonia Lafayette, Phloxes, Liliums,
and other hardy flowers (silver Flora medal). They also had a collec¬
tion of cut and pot Roses, and two very fine baskets of Clethra
speciosa and C. alnifolia. Lord Ashcombe received a cultural com¬
mendation for Bignonia grandiflora in splendid condition.

Orchid Committee. — Pesent ; Dr. Masters (in the chair) ; Messrs.
J. O’Brien, H. M. Pollett, T. Statter, Hugh Low, W. H. White, G. Hill,
S. Courtauld, Jas. Douglas, and F. Sander. The duties of the Committee
were light, the exhibits being comparatively few.

Mr. Thorne, gardener to Major Joicey, Sunningdale Park, sent a grand
piece of Vanda Sanderiana with eleven expanded flowers and one bud,
the flowers of great size, exhibiting this fine Orchid in its best character
(cultural commendation). Flowers of Cattleya granulosa Scholfieldiana
and Miltonia Joiceyana (see certificates) came from the same source.
Mr. Stephens, gardener to W. J. Thompson, Esq., Walton Grange, Stone,
Staffs, contributed Oncidium spiloptium, bought as 0. St. Legerianum,
and also a grand variety of Lselia tenebrosa, which is described under
certificated plants. Mr. Johnson, grower to T. Statter, Esq., Stand
Hall, Manchester, was represented by Lselia Schilleriana var. Johnsoni.
Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea, sent a new Laelia named Novelty
which is referred to below. Barina suaveolens with its deliciously
scented spikes came from the Glasnevin Botanical Gardens (botanical
certificate).

Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford Lodge, Dorking (grower, Mr.
White) sent a small but very beautiful group, composed of Aerides
Lawrencae var. Sanderiana with four raeemes heavily loaded with bloom,
Miltonia speetabilis, Cattleya Blessensis, Laelia elegans Turner! Purple
Prince, Laelia Philbrickiana, Schomburgkia Lyons:, Cypripedium Harrisi-
froyae (C. Harrisianum x C. Godefroyae), C. aeno-superbiens (see below),
and Aganisia inoptera (botanical certificate). A silver Banksian medal
was recommended. Messrs. Sander & Co. also had a very pleasing group,
in which Cypripedium hybridum Youngianura, C. Macfarlanei,
C. Maynardi, C. radiosum, Grobia Amherstiae, Vanda Sanderiana,
Aerides Ballantineanum aureum, a splendid piece of A. Sanderiana,
Grammatophyllum Fenzlianum, and Cypripedium Thayerianum (see
below) were conspicuous. A silver Banksian medal was recommended.
Mr. Chapman, grower to R. J. Measures, Esq., Cambridge Lodge,
Camberwell, sent Masdevallia Lowi, which was certificated in 1890,
Cypripedium Youngianum, and a form of C. Numa named superba.

Certificates and Awards.

Melon Hero of Idewortli (Mr. Wythes). — A cross between Wythes’
Seedling and Syon House, a green-fleshed variety, very sweet, neat in
.shape, and well netted (award of merit).

Melon Royal Prince (Mr. W. Palmer, Cobden Villas, Andover). — A
cross between Triumph and Hero of Lockinge, a small evenly netted
yellow-fleshed variety, extremely sugary (award of merit).

Melon County Councillor (Mr. W. Palmer). — A cross between
Triumph and Blenheim Orange, a small well-netted variety, sweet in
flavour (award of merit).

Tritoma Osiris (Paul & Son, Cheshunt). — Remarkable for its distinct
orange yellow inflorescence (award of merit).

Phlox Etna (Paul & Son, Cheshunt). — A brilliant carmine variety
with a good head of bloom, and about 18 inches high (award of merit).

_ Liatris pycnostachya (Paul & Son, Cheshunt) . — Some splendid
spikes of this little known old plant were shown, the beautiful mauve
heads being greatly admi-red. It w’as figured in the Journal of Horti¬
culture some years ago (first-class certificate).

Canna Duchess of York (Kelway & Son). — A beautiful fancy variety,
pale yellow, blotched with deep red (award of merit).

Canna Capitaine de Suzzoni (Lemoine). — A fine variety, with clear
yellow blooms profusely spotted with dull brownish red (award of
merit).

Canna Gloire d'Empel (Vilmorin). — A grand flower, very rich deep
scarlet in colour (award of merit).

Canna Lohengrin (Vilmorin, Andrieux & Co.). — A very distinct
colour ; it might almost be described as orange amber (award of
merit).

Canna Eonigin Charlotte (Pfitzer). — A charming flower, with orange
scarlet flowers, distinctly margined with clear yellow (award of merit).

Canna Michelet (Sir Trevor Lawrence). — A good variety, with rich
bright scarlet flowers (award of merit).

Montiretia crocosmceflora plena (Sir Trevor Lawrence). — A semi¬
double form, having orange yellow flowers (first-class certificate).

Hollyhoch Amaranth (Webb & Brand). — A rich, deep silvery rose
coloured bloom, of exceptional substance and shape (award of merit).

Gladiolus John Warren (Kelway & Son). — A variety with very large
flowers, and a fine spike, rich orange scarlet, with a few deeper flakes
and a purple throat (award of merit).

Gladiolus Grover Cleveland (Kelway & Son). — A very distinct and
beautiful variety, brilliant carmine with a faint cerise suffusion, and a
white stripe along the centre of each segment (award of merit).

Gladiolus Alfred Henderson (Kelway & Son). — Bright vermilion,
very large flowers and grand spike (award of merit).

Gladiolus Buhe of Yorh (Kelway & Son). — Light rosy red, throat
pale with purplish flakes (award of merit).

Grevillea Banhsi (J. Laing & Sons). — A very distinct and graceful
species, of which perhaps the exhibitors will supply some particulars
(first-class certificate).

Begonia semperflorens Vernon (J. Laing & Sons). — This bronzy hued
variety is now fairly well known. It is a most effective and desirable
plant, as much from the fine colour of the leaves as for the profusion of
bright red flowers (award of merit).

Caladium President de la Devansaye (J. Laing & Sons and C. Bause).
— A beautiful variety with rich red foliage (award of merit).

Hedera helix tesselata (Miss Browning-Hall, Algiers). — A tesselated
form of the old plant and very attractive (award of merit).

Draecena Alexander Laing (C. Bause). — A variety with long slender
leaves, deep purplish green edged with crimson (award of merit).

Croton Mdme. Ernest Bergman (C. Bause). — A beautiful variety with
short, broad leaves, elegantly marbled with green, gold, and red (award
of merit).

Lcelia tenelrosa Walton Grange variety (W. J. Thompson). — A very
fine variety, the flowers being of great size, sepals and petals butter
yellow, lip white, throat deep crimson, altogether an imposing and
beautiful form (first-class certificate).

Miltonia Joiceyana (Major Joicey). — A new form with pseudo-bulbs
4 to 6 inches long, and flowers borne in long racemes. The sepals and
petals are dark brown with bars of light brownish yellow, lip very pale
mauve, with a darker blotch at the base of the column (first-class
certificate).

Lcelia Novelty (J. Veitch & Sons). — A hybrid between L. elegans
and L. Dayana, the former being the pollen parent. A small form with
miniature flattened pseudo-bulbs, sepals and petals rich rosy mauve, lip
very deep rich velvety purplish crimson (award of merit).

Cypripedium ceno-superhiens (Sir Trevor Lawrence). — A cross
between C. senanthum and C. superbiens, a broad and somewhat
impressive flower. The dorsal sepal is of considerable breadth and well
rounded. The central area is green with rows of chocolate dots, the
margin white with a rosy suffusion ; petals broad and blunt, dull
reddish brown with a few chocolate spots, lip same colour (award of
merit).

Cypripedium Thayerianum (Sander & Co.). — A new hybrid secured
by crossing C. Lawrenceanum and C. Boxalli atratum. It is a small
very dark flower; lip chocolate with a green base, dorsal sepal dark
burnished chocolate with a suffusion of green towards the apex, margin
flushed with rose, petals dark chocolate, base greenish and with dark
spots (award of merit).

The Lecture.

On Tuesday afternoon Mr. J. G. Baker, F.R. S., of Kew, read an excellent
paper on Cannas, Mr. Bennett Poe presiding. The essay was essentially
botanical, the essayist dissecting the flowers piece by piece and naming
every fragment with the ease of a master. These Cannas, said Mr.
Baker, were divided into four sections, three of which were so distinct
that they had until recently been classed as separate genera, but owiug

132

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 10, 1833.

to the ease with which they might be fertilised one with the other it
was now generally acknowledged that they were but species of one
genus. Gannas were introduced by Gerarde in the year 1596, the
species being named indica. The Gannas were first taken in hand by
hybridisers in the year 1840, at least it was in the year in which the
results were first recorded. The leader in this great work was Mons.
Andrd Since that year the advance in the quality of Gannas has been
steady throughout the whole of the time.

During the past twenty years the hybridists have, said the essayist,
used the true Ganna and the well known forms of iridiflora, the objects
having been to secure fine bright coloured flowers of large size, and at
the same time to retain the handsome characteristics of the foliage.
The result of these improvements had been that the old true Gannas
have been almost driven out of cultivation, the more showy later
hybrids having practically superseded them. A short discussion was
afterwards held, in which Mr. G. Paul took a prominent part, and then
a vote of thanks having been accorded to Mr. Baker for his interesting
discourse the meeting closed.

THE VALUE OF NITROGEN TO PLANTS.

Plants can use nitrogen in three different forms — viz. : —

(1) , As nitrogen gas or uncombined nitrogen.

(2) , In the form of ammonia.

(3) , In the form of nitrates.

All plants cannot use nitrogen in any of these three forms equally
well, but each form is found specially suited to certain kinds of plants,
as will be noticed.

(a). Nitrogen Gas Used by Plants. — Although we have nitrogen
gas, or uncombined nitrogen, existing in the air in enormous quantities,
still, the number and kinds of plants which can use the nitrogen of the
air is not large. In general, those plants which are called leguminous,
such as the Bean, Pea, Glover, Alfalfa, &c., can take uncombined,
nitrogen from the air.

(&), Nitrogen of Ammonia Used by Plants. — The leaves of
some plants have the power of absorbing ammonia directly from the
air and obtain nitrogen in this way. Some plants obtain nitrogen from
ammonium salts through the soil.

(c). Nitrogen op Nitrates Used by Plants. — The largest part
of the nitrogen which most plants obtain is taken up by their roots
from the soil in the form of nitrates ; that is, nitric acid combined with
some metal, as sodium or potassium. As already stated, most of the
nitrates used by plants are formed by changing into nitrates ammonia
compounds and organic substances in the soil by the process called
nitrification. Hence, nitrogen, in the form of nitrates, is the most
available form for most plants ; that is, it can be most readily taken up
and used by plants.

Relations op Nitrogen to Fertilisers.

(<f), Experiments have shown that nitrogen is essential to the growth
of plants ; that the quantities of nitrogen available as plant food are
very small ; that nitrogen is one of the first elements in the soil to be
used up ; that, of all the fertilising elements, nitrogen is and always
has been the most expensive.

The Specific Action of Nitrogen upon Plants.

G), The influence of nitrogen in its various forms upon plant growth
is shown by at least three striking effects.

First. — The growth of stems and leaves is greatly promoted, while
that of buds and flowers is retarded. Ordinarily, most plants, at a
certain period of growth, cease to produce new branches and foliage, or
to increase those already formed, and commence to produce flowers and
fruits, whereby the species may be perpetuated. If a plant is provided
with as much available nitrogen as it can use just at the time it begins
to flower, the formation of flowers may be checked, while the activity of
growth is transferred back to and renewed in stems and leaves, which
take on a new vigour and multiply with remarkable luxuriance.
Should flowers be produced under these circumstances they are sterile
and produce no seed.

Second. — The effect of nitrogen upon plants is to deepen the
colour of the foliage, which is a sign of increased vegetative activity and
health.

Third. — The effect of nitrogen is to increase in a very marked degree
the relative proportion of nitrogen in the plants.

Loss OF Nitrogen Gompounds.

(/)> Since ammonia compounds and nitrates dissolve easily in water,
is there not danger of their being carried away in drainage water from
the upper soil out of reach of the plant ?

Experiments have been made to settle the question, and results
indicate that ammonia compounds are largely retained in the soil.
Nitrates are apt to be washed out and lost in the case of bare fallow
land ; but when the soil is covered with vegetation there is little or no
loss, for the reason that the roots of growing plants absorb nitrogen very
readily. Some nitrogen is also lost by organic matter in the process of
decay, escaping into the air as free nitrogen.

These losses^ of nitrogen are, to some extent, replaced naturally by
means of the nitric acid and ammonia dissolved by the rain and dew,
also by organic matter decaying at the surface of the soil, and by
conversion of the free nitrogen of the air into some form which the
plant can take up and use. These natural additions of nitrogen do not
usually make good on the farm the losses, and in time the nitrogen
becomes insufucient to produce paying crops without the addition of
nitrogenous manures. — N. T. J. (in the “Agricultural Economist.’’)

HORTICULTURAL SHOWS.

SOUTHAMPTON. — August 5th and 7th.

For some years past wet weather has characterised the summer
Exhibition and Fete held annually under the auspices of the Royal
Horticultural Society of Southampton, and the financial results have
in consequence not always been of a satisfactory nature. The gentle¬
men comprising the Gouncil, however, have never been daunted, and
notwithstanding the difficulties they have had to contend with in this
respect, have each year managed to provide an Exhibition that is
generally considered to be one of the best held in the South of England.
That which took place in the grounds of the Society at Westwood Park
on the above dates proved no exception to the rule as regards the
exhibits. Those who are acquainted with the Great York Gala and the
famous Shrewsbury Exhibition may form an idea as to what the South¬
ampton Fete is in the south, although on rather a smaller scale. It is
a flower show attended by numerous side attractions, which serve as
valuable auxiliaries to the floral portion so far as inducing a large
number of visitors is concerned. Fortunately fine weather prevailed
on this occasion, and thousands of people visited the grounds.

Regarding the Exhibition, although the entries in some classes were
not particularly numerous, it was, on the whole, a grand show. In the
opinion of the judges the exhibits were quite up to the standard,
and in some instances were exceptionally fine. Specimen plants were
exceedingly good despite the fact that such growers as Messrs. Gypher
of Gheltenham, and A. Ocock, erstwhile gardener at Handcross Park,
have apparently ceased to exhibit at Southampton. The plants shown
by Mr. Jennings in the leading class attracted much attention,
they being grand examples of cultural skill. The groups, usually
a strong feature, were good, and the same may be said of the cut blooms.
Fruit and vegetables were excellent, the bunches of Muscat of Alex¬
andria shown by Mr. E. Molyneux being amongst the best we have
seen this year. The arrangements were conducted in an efficient manner
by Mr. G. S. Fuidge, the energetic Secretary.

Plants and Groups.

The principal class in the open section was for ten stove and greenhouse
plants, five to be in bloom, and the remaining foliage specimens. Four
exhibitors competed for the substantial prizes offered, and the leading
awmrd went to Mr. F. G. Jennings, gardener to W. Garton, Esq., Rose-
lands, Woolston, for splendidly grown plants. Those in flower comprised
Stephanotis floribunda, Glerodendron Balfourianum, Statice profusa,
Allamanda nobilis and A. Hendersoni, the others including Grotons
Warreni and Queen Victoria, well coloured and in exceptionally fine
condition. Mr. T. Wilkins, gardener to Lady Theodora Guest, Inwood
House, Hensbridge, was second. Bougainvillea glabra, Ixora Williamsi,
and Groton Queen Victoria being well shown by this exhibitor. The
third prize went to Mr. E. Wills, Shirley, and the fourth to Mr.
N. Blandford. Mr. Jennings was again first in the class for six stove
and greenhouse plants, showing Groton angustifolium (grand and well
coloured), Allamanda nobilis, Dipladenia amabilis, Stephanotis flori¬
bunda, Dicksonia antarctica, and Kentia Fosteriana. Mr. W. Peel,
gardener to Miss Todd, Sidford Lodge, Shirley, was a good second, Mr,
E. Wills being third, and Mr. T. Williams fourth. The last named
exhibited a magnificent plant of Gassia corymbosa loaded with blossoms.
Mr. T. Hall, gardener to Samuel Montague, Esq., M.P., President of the
Society, South Stoneham House, secured the premier award for six
miscellaneous plants, the best of which were Eucharis amazonica,
well flowered ; Latania borbonica, Gocos Weddelliana, and Allamanda
Hendersoni. The second prize went to Mr. W. Peel for a collection of
smaller plants.

The groupswere good,andintheleading classthe competition was very
keen. Mr. Wilkins, however, proved the winner of the principal award,
this exhibitor having arranged a charming exhibit. The plants were
tastefully put together, and the whole produced a very fine effect. From
a groundwork of Adiantum, fresh and green in appearance, rose graceful
spikes of Gelosias, Francoas, and other flowering plants, these being
interspersed with Aralias, Grotons, Dracsenas, and Galadiums, all richly
coloured. Mr. E. Wills followed closely with a very fine arrangement,
the third position being assigned to Mr. E. Garr, gardener to W. A. Gillet,
Esq., Fair Oak Lodge, Bishopstoke ; and the fourth to Mr. B. Ladhams,
Shirley, for a compact group of miscellaneous plants. For a smaller
group Mr. Peel secured the leading position, having a fine collection of
plants well arranged. The background was composed of a large Palm
and Humea elegans, and amongst the most noticeable plants were
Grotons, Galadiums, Dracaenas, Liliums, and Alocasias. Mr. T. Hall
was second, Messrs. Langston Brothers, Burgess Street, Bassett, being
third. Mrs. Kingsbury, Bevois Valley, had the best collection of nursery
stock ; Mr. G. Windebank, Bevois Town, being second ; and Mr.
Ladhams third. In the amateurs’ section the groups of plants were
also well arranged, the principal prizewinners being Messrs. T. E.
Ghamberlain, F. M. Vokes, and H. 0. Vokes.

Ferns were well shown in the open class. Mr. F. G. Jennings had
the best six stove or greenhouse Ferns in Adiantum concinnum,
A. cardiochlaena, A. fragrantissimum, Davallia Mooreana, Microlepia
hirta cristata (very fine), and Nephrolepis davallioides furcans. Mr.
J. Annys, gardener to the Hon. Mrs. Eliote Yorke, Hamble Gliffe, was
second ; Mr. W. Peel third ; and Mr. W. Garr fourth. Mr. N. Blandford,
gardener to Mrs. Haselfoot, Moor Hill, West End, was first wdth six
double Zonal Pelargoniums and the same number of single varieties.
Mr. G. Windebank was second in both classes. Goleuses were finely
shown, the best plants coming from Mr. T. Hall ; Messrs. E. Garr and

August 10, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

133

J. Evans, gardener to Lady Ashburton, Melehet Court, following in
order of their names. Mr. T. Hall secured the premier prize for six
Petunias, staging well-grown plants. Mr. G. Busby, gardener to
Col. F. Willan, Thorne Hill Park, had the best half dozen hardy Ferns,
these including fine specimens of Osmunda regalis cristata, Onoclea
sensibilis, Lastrea grandiceps, and Athryium f.-f. Elworthi. The
leading award for six plants of Celosia pyramidalis went to Mr.
R. West, gardener to H. J. Wigram, Esq., Northlands, Salisbury, Messrs.
E. Wills, and T. Hall following in the order given.

In the class for single specimens of stove or greenhouse plants the
competition was very keen, and some grand exhibits were forthcoming.
Mr. J. Amys secured the leading position for a plant in flower, staging
a magnificent specimen of Allamanda Hendersoni. This was well
trained and densely flowered, one of the best plants seen at any exhibi¬
tion. Mr. Jennings followed, the third award going to Mr. E. Carr, both
exhibitors showing Allamanda Hendersoni. Mr. Jennings was first with
a single specimen of an ornamental foliage plant, having Croton
Williamsi in splendid condition, clean and richly coloured. Mr. W. Peel
was second with a grand plant of Croton angustifolium, the third prize
going to Mr. J. Evans. Mr. Peel had the best six Mosses in pans. Mr.
E. Carr was first with Gloxinias and table plants were best shown by
Messrs. Wills and Budd. Tuberous Begonias were only fairly good, the
awards being taken by Messrs. E. Wills, Wilkins, J. Hughes, J. Evans,
and E . Carr in the respective classes. Orchids were not numerous nor
exceptionally good. Mr. J. Evans was first with a single specimen,
showing a form of Lselia purpurata well flowered. The second and
third prizes in this class went to Messrs. E. Wills and E. Carr, the
former having a plant of Calanthe veratrifolia and the latter]L^lia pur¬
purata. Mr. N. Blandford gained the premier position with a small
collection of Orchids tastefully arranged with Ferns, the other exhibitor
being W. A. Gillett, Esq., Fair Oak Lodge.

Cut Flowees and Table Decorations.

This section formed an important feature in the Exhibition, and
appeared to attract the larger number of visitors. Roses were not
extensively shown, as could hardly be expected, but those staged were
of excellent quality. Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co., Salisbury, had a
grand box of twenty-four blooms considering the time of year, and for
which the first prize was awarded. The best flowers were La France,
Alfred Colomb, Lady Mary Fitzwilliam, Horace Vernet, and The Bride.
Messrs. Perkins & Co., Coventry, followed with a stand of fresh though
smaller blooms. The class for twelve bunches of cut flowers was well
contested. Mr. J. Budd, gardener to F. G. Dalgety, Esq., Lockerby
Hall, Romsey, was awarded the first prize for a box of blooms taste¬
fully arranged with Fern fronds. The most conspicuous in this stand
were Clerodendron fallax, Ixora Williamsi, and Cattleya crispa. Mr.
J. Evans was a close second, showing a box of very fine flowers.
Mr. B. Ladhams, nurseryman, Shirley, was placed first for twelve varie¬
ties of hardy herbaceous cut flowers, Mr. N. Pritchard, Christ Church,
following. Both exhibitors staged a bright collection of blooms, which
were much admired. Mr. N. Pritchard also had some charming spikes of
Gladioli in named varieties. Mr. R. West was third with herbaceous
cut flowers. Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co. were placed first with
twelve Dahlias, amongst which R. T. Rawlings, Dazzler, Peacock, Duke
of Fife, and Henry Bond were the best. Mr. R. West followed with
good flowers, Mr. J. Evans being third. Matters were reversed in the
class for Pompon Dahlias, Mr. West being first for twelve blooms,
Messrs. Keynes Williams & Co. following. Cut Zonal Pelargoniums
were best shown by Mr. N. Blandford in the class for single varieties,
and Mr. West had the best double flowers. Mr. W. Batten, Old Basing,
secured the leading prizes for six bunches of cut flowers and half a
dozen Rose blooms.

The table decorations were simple and effective. For a table 8 feet
by 4 feet dressed with flowers and foliage, Mr. Ladhams was placed
first for a pretty arrangement, Mr. A. B. Hobby, Vadwell Road, followed
in this class. The best epergne of flowers was also staged by Mr.
Ladhams, Miss K. Goldring and Mrs. Kingsbury being second and third.
Messrs. Perkins & Co., as is usual with them, secured the chief awards
for bridal and hand bouquets in the open classes. Baskets of wild
flowers and buttonhole bouquets were well shown by Miss K. E.
Matthews, Miss Bauce, Miss Ladhams, Miss Chamberlain, Messrs.
B. Ladhams and A. G. Allsop.

Fruit and Vegetables.

As already remarked, these were well represented, and by some were
considered to be the best that have been seen at Southampton. Grapes
were splendidly shown in the classes for white and black varieties. Five
competed for three bunches of white Grapes, but the Muscat of
Alexandrias staged by Mr. E. Molyneux, Swanmore Park, Bishops
Waltham, were by far the best. The bunches were large and of a
handsome shape, the berries also being very fine, but a week or so would
have given them a better tint and more finished appearance. However,
they were the best Grapes in the Show, and merited the first prize
awarded. Mr. H. W. Ward, Longford Castle, was second, also with
Muscat of Alexandria, well finished, but a little smaller in bunch and
berry than those exhibited by Mr. Molyneux. Mr. C. Warden, gardener
to Sir F. H. Bathhurst, Clarendon Park, Salisbury, was third with fine
bunches of Buckland Sweetwater. For three bunches of black Grapes
Mr. A. Henbest was placed first for grandly finished Black Hamburghs.
Mr. H. W. Ward was again second, and Mr. G. Inglefield, gardener to Sir
J. W. Kelk, Bart., Ted worth House, third. Mr. J. Hughes secured the
first prize for two bunches of white Grapes, Mr, Evans being second

and Mr. G. W. Taylor third. Four competed in t’.e class for two bunches
of black Grapes, and the prizes were taken by Messrs. G. Busby,
J. Hughes, and J. Budd. Seven exhibitors competed for a single bunch
of white Grapes, and also for one bunch of any black variety. In the
former class Mr. E. Molyneux was again first with well finished
Muscats, Messrs. H. W. Ward and C. Warden securing second and third
prizes respectively. Mr. Henbest had the best single bunch of black
Grapes, showing perfectly coloured Black Hamburghs. Mr. Ward
followed with good Madresfield Court, Mr. C. Warden being third.

Although surpassed in Grapes, Mr. H. W. Ward secured a well-
merited honour in the class for six dishes of fruit. Pines excluded.
Seven exhibitors were forthcoming, and the competition was very keen.
Mr. Ward had richly coloured Dryden Nectarines, Brunswick Figs, Sea
Eagle Peach, Hero of Lockinge Melons, Muscat of Alexandria and
Black Hamburgh Grapes in excellent condition. Mr. A. J. Allsop was
second, and Mr. G. Sugfield third. The last named exhibitor had the
best half-dozen Peaches, Mr. Ward following with well-grown Sea
Eagle, and Mr. J. Hughes was third. Eight exhibitors competed in the
class just mentioned, and ten had Nectarines. Messrs. H. Drover and
Sons, Hillside Nursery, Ventnor, were placed first for grand fruits of
Pineapple. Mr. J. C. Jennings was second with the same variety richly
coloured. Melons were well shown by Messrs. H. W. Ward, C. Warden,
G. Amys, A. Henbest, G. Inglefield, and E. Molyneux, all of whom
secured prizes in two classes in order as their names are given. Mr. G.
Busby won with six dishes of fruit of outdoor growth, staging Morello
Cherries, Jargonelle Pears, Goliath Plums, Royal George Peach, Brown
Turkey Figs, and Irish Peach Apples, all in first-rate condition. Mr. J.
Budd was second, and Mr. A. Henbest, Crawley Court, Winchester,
third.

Vegetables were clean and of first-rate quality considering the
exceptionally dry season. Mr. T. Wilkins secured the leading prize
offered by Messrs. Sutton & Sons for a collection of vegetables. These
comprised New Intermediate Carrots, Ponderosa Tomatoes, Duke of
Albany Peas, Satisfaction Potatoes, Rousham Park Onion, and Cauli¬
flowers. Mr. Wilkins also won the chief prize given by Messrs. Webb
and Sons for a similar collection. Messrs. Inglefield and J. Hughes were
second and third in this class. For the prizes offered for a collection of
nine varieties eight exhibitors competed, and in each case the produce
was of excellent quality. Mr. T. Wilkins here also maintained his
reputation as being a vegetable grower as well as a plantsman by carry¬
ing away the first prize, the second and third awards going to Messrs.
G. Inglefield and J. Hughes. Peas were well shown by Mr. H. W. Ward,
and Beans by Mr. Inglefield. Mr. R. West staged Potatoes and Carrots
in grand condition, and Mr. J. Budd was awarded the premier honour
for twelve Onions from spring seed. Mr. J. Hughes had the best dozen
autumn-sown Onions, staging fine heavy bulbs of Lemon Rocca. Mr.
A. Henbest, out of fourteen competitors, secured the first prize for a
brace of Cucumbers, showing perfect fruits of Improved Telegraph.
Mr. B. Ladhams won with a dish of Tomatoes, Messrs. W. Colton being
second, and Langston Bros, third, all staging good fruits. Vegetables
and fruit were also well staged in the cottagers’ classes.

Miscellaneous.

Miscellaneous exhibits were not numerous. Messrs. Keynes,
Williams & Co. had a box of Roses and a collection of new and
recently introduced Dahlias. Certificates were awarded for Dahlias
Valkyrie (Pompon), Ochroleuca, Duke of York, Duchess of Fife, and
Emperor of Germany, the last four being of the Cactus type. Messrs.
Perkins k. Co. had a new dark Dahlia named Matchless, and Mr. B.
Ladhams staged a large collection of cut flowers, bright and interesting.
Mrs. Kingsbury had a group of miscellaneous plants, as also had
Mr. W. H. Rogers, Red Lodge Nursery, Southampton. Mr. Rogers
likewise sent a splendid group of ornamental shrubs in pots.

EARL’S COURT.-— August 9th.

The present Show was to consist mainly of flowering and foliage
plants, and they were represented in such numbers as to somewhat over¬
crowd the tent, one or two of the exhibitors having to be content with a
very modest amount of room. This was a direct contrast to the last
show, when spacing out had to be resorted to. On that occasion Car¬
nations and Picotees should have formed the most prominent feature,
and their scarcity consequent on the early season left the show some¬
what thin. On this occasion hardy flowers were very strongly repre¬
sented and made a most beautiful display. Both amateurs and pro¬
fessionals showed them exceedingly well. They are not likely to
be seen much better at any show this year. The plan of
giving prizes for groups as well for the usual collections answered
admirably, the competing exhibits being extremely beautiful,
not less so certainly than the majority of the groups of green¬
house and stove plants which are seen at shows. The winning one was
a very fine piece of work, material and arrangement being alike excellent.
There was not much between the other two, but Mr. Such, notwith¬
standing a preponderance of Gaillaidias, was placed second. Messrs.
Paul & Son had some particularly fine bunches in the class for them,
and won most decisively. Better are rarely seen, but Mr. Cuthbertson
made a wonderfully good display, considering that the flowers had been
staged at Leicester before coming to London, and this, be it remembered,
after a very long railway journey. Mr. Wythes is not very often found
competing, but when he does enter the fray he gives a good account of
himself, and on this occasion he showed indoor and outdoor flowers and
fruit very finely.

The open class for a group of flowering and foliage plants brought an

134

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 10, 1893.

excellent one from Messrs. Laing & Sons, to whicli the first prize was
deservedly awarded. Double and single Begonias, some well-coloured
Crotons and Campanula pyramidalis stood out prominently in it, and
the arrangement was very good. There was no competition. Mr.
Howe, gardener to H. Tate, Esq., Streatham, was unopposed with a
group of Crotons and Dracaenas, but condition and cleanliness were so
satisfactory that the premier award was made. In the amateurs’ class
for flowering and foliage plants Mr. Wythes, Syon House Gardens, won
with a tasteful arrangement which would very well have borne a few
more flowers, but the quality of the material was too good to be taken
exception to. There was •nly one group of Liliums, and that came
from Slough. Mr. Turner’s plants were well flowered, and deserved the
flrst prize.

Messrs. Paul & Sons, The Old Nurseries, Cheshunt, had a beautiful
group of hardy flowers, and were placed first. Mr. Such was second, his
Gaillardias showing up well. Messrs. Laing & Sons were third. In the
corresponding class for amateurs Mr. Wythes was first, and Mr. Sage,
gardener to Earl Dysart, second. Messrs. Paul & Son won with twenty-
four bunches of hardy flowers, exhibiting material of first-rate quality.
Liatris pycnostachya, Rudbeckia purpurea, Malva moschata, the Phloxes,
and Montbretia crocosmmflora were very fine. Mr. M. Cuthbertson was
second, also with excellent bunches, and Mr. Such third. In the
amateurs’ class for twelve bunches Mr. A. Newell, gardener to Sir E.
Sanders, won with very good clusters. Mr. Sage was a close second, Mr.
Wythes third, and Mr. E. Tickner, gardener to J. Watney, Esq., received
a third prize.

There was a class for a collection of hardy fruit (six dishes), and
Mr. Wythes won with Morello Cherries — a capital dish — Royal George
Peaches, Williams’ Bon Chr§tien Pears, Pineapple Nectarines, Worcester
Pearmain Apples, and Jefferson Plums. Mr. G. H. Sage was second
with good Jefferson Plums and Mulberries.

The miscellaneous exhibits comprised many which were at the Drill
Hall the day before, and altogether formed a very fine feature of the
Exhibition. Mr. Cuthbertson of Rothesay had a bright and well
diversified collection of hardy flowers, which were wonderfully fresh
considering that they had had a very long journey, and been shown
at Leicester on Tuesday (silver medal). Mr. Forbes of Hawick had a
very beautiful display of Hollyhocks, which are referred to in our report
of the R.H.S. ; also a flne display of Stocks, Antirrhinums, and
Pentstemons. The two last named were very fine (silver-gilt medal).
Messrs. Cheal & Son repeated their Drill Hall exhibit of Gourds, fruit,
Sweet Peas, and Dahlias, and it attracted, as it deserved, considerable
notice (two silver medals). Messrs. Barr & Son had a very large bank
of hardy flowers, good material, well arranged (silver medal). Mr.
A. McMillan had a box of very good Chrysanthemums (silver medal).
Messrs. S. Spooner & Sons had some excellent dishes of Apples (silver
medal). Mr. A. W. Young sent Gloxinias and Begonias (bronze medal).
Messrs. Barron & Sons contributed an interesting collection of tree
foliage, but had not room to display them to advantage (silver medal).
Mr. J. Walker, Thame, gave a foretaste of the Dahlia season in some
splendid Show and Fancy blooms (silver medal). Messrs. Kelway and
Son had the grand collection of Gladioli, Gaillardias, and hardy flowers
which attracted so much attention at the R.H.S. meeting (silver-gilt
medal) ; and Mr. R. Nicholas had sent on from there his splendid
Pine Apples (silver-gilt medal). Messrs. R. Cross & Sons exhi¬
bited sprayers and insecticides. Messrs. J. Laing & Son sent
several plants for certificate, such as Begonia Vernon, Grevillea
Banksi, Caraguata cardinalis, and Carnation Stanstead Beauty,
very bright and good. Mr. T. Jannoch was represented by
a neat bank of Lilies of the Valley, remarkable for the time of year
(silver medal). Mr. T. A. Hester, gardener to W. G. Dawson, Esq., had
a good collection of fruit, not for competition, and so had Mr.
Rickwood, gardener to the Dowager Lady Freake, and Mr. Hoar, gar¬
dener to T. J. Cooper, Esq., each receiving a silver medal. Mr. J.
Hudson, The Gardens, Gunnersbury House, had some splendid plants
of Campanula pyramidalis, blue and white. Messrs. Paul & Son,
Cheshunt, had beautiful boxes of Roses, for which a silver medal
was awarded ; and Miss Lilian Hudson displayed a charming table of
floral decorations, receiving a silver-gilt medal.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Wm. Bull, 536, King’s Road, Chelsea, London, S.W. — Tuierous-rooted
Plants and Bulbs.

W. Clibran & Son, Oldfield Nurseries, Altrincham. — Bulbs, Ji'c.

Dickson & Co., 1, Waterloo Place, Edinburgh. — Catalogue of Flower
Boots, J^'o,

Dickson & Robinson, Manchester. — Catalogue of Bulbs and Boses,

W. B. Hartland, Ard-cairn, Cork. — Catalogue of Da ffodils.

Hogg & Wood, Coldstream. — Bulbous Boots.

Wm. Paul & Son, Waltham Cross. — Bulbs and Winter Floioers.

J. R. Pearson & Son, Chilwell Nurseries, Nottingham. — Bulbous
Plants.

J. Peed & Sons, Roupell Park Nurseries, Norwood Road, S.E. —
Bulbous Flower Boots,

William Sydenham, Tamworth, Staffordshire. — List of Fancy Exhibi¬
tion Pansies.

Jas. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea. — Hyacinths and
other Bulbous Boots,

B. S. Williams & Son, (Tprer Holloway, London. — Dtscriptixe
Lata.ogue oj Bulbs, Fhuit Trees, Boses,

FRUIT FORCING.

Vines. — Early Houses. — Although the Vines have the wood ripe and
some of the foliage is falling, there must not be any attempt at removing
it nor to cut the laterals close in, as that would probably cause the
principal buds to start. This must be prevented by removing the
laterals by degrees and shortening some of the long shoots, reserving,
however, some growth above the buds to which the Vines are to
pruned, the final pruning being deferred until the early part of
September, Where the Vines are not satisfactory, the old surface soil
should be removed and forked from amongst the roots, raising any that
are deep and laying them in fresh material nearer the surface. Good
calcareous loam or that containing a rather free admixture of small
stones and grit, broken up roughly and well compacted about the roots,
is the most suitable compost. If it be of a heavy nature add a sixth of
old mortar rubbish; if light, a similar proportion of clayey marl, dried
and pounded. C.rushed or half-inch bones may be used discriminately —
say a bushel to cartload of loam, and a similar proportion of
charcoal, and where the loam is very turfy add 7 lbs. of kainit and
14 lbs. of Thomas’s phosphate to each cartload of loam. Give a moderate
watering and the roots will push, especially adventitious ones, from
near the collar, into the new soil at once, and the Vines will start freely
when the time arrives for doing so. If the drainage is defective and
the whole of the soil has to be removed, perform the lifting expedi¬
tiously, and if the Vines are weak it is desirable to give a season’s rest or
crop very moderately.

Midseason Houses. — The Grapes colour rapidly this season, and
though not so large in bunch or berry they are of high quality. Red
spider has been very troublesome in some cases, but upon the whole
Vines have flourished with the extra light and heat, especially Muscat of
Alexandria, which has the Grapes better ripened and coloured than for
some years past. Where the berries are ripe it will be necessary to
employ a slight shade over the roof lights, with a double thickness of
herring nets, to prevent black Grapes losing colour, and Foster’s
Seedling, Buckland Sweetwater, and similar varieties from having the
berries browned. This, and some hexagon netting over the ventilators
to exclude wasps and flies, will ensure the Grapes keeping in good
condition for a considerable time.

Where the Grapes are ripening copious supplies of water will be
necessary ; even outside borders may need applications, and the borders
can be mulched with an inch or two of short material. If liquid manure
is given it should be of a sustaining rather than stimulating nature, and
moderate atmospheric moisture will be necessary for the benefit of the
foliage. This can be secured by damping surfaces occasionally, and will
not do any harm to the Grapes provided the ventilation is free and a
circulation of air insured at night. A little fire heat will be advisable in
case of dull and damp weather prevailing, but it need not be more than
to secure 70° to 75° by day, and 60° to 65° at night, and admit of a
circulation of air constantly, as it is stagnant air that conduces to
spotting and cracking in the berries. Allow a fair spread of foliage
over black Grapes, but keep that of the white varieties rather thin, not
allowing crowding in either case.

Late Houses. — When well grown Lady Downe’s has a decided Muscat
flavour, which is improved with keeping. This may be effected in any
room from which frost and damp are excluded. Mrs. Pince is, perhaps,,
the worst of all Grapes to finish, and requires a good spread of foliage,
with gentle warmth in the hot-water pipes, so as to secure a night
temperature of 65°, and 70° to 75° by day, with a little air constantly,
continuing this until the berries are thoroughly black and covered with
blue bloom. It, however, loses colour quickly after being ripe, and is
inclined to shrivel. Continue to afford full supplies of water until the
Grapes are well advanced in colour, for most late Grapes take a long
time to perfect thoroughly. All are best grown on the extension system
• — that is, they require more room and a greater spread of wood. Too
early and close stopping is always detrimental to the well-doing of late
Grapes, and a good spread of foliage is essential. The foliage must be
fully exposed to light and kept perfectly clean and healthy, some growth
being made so as to keep the roots active, and overcropping avoided.
The feeding must also commence early and be continued until the
berries are at least coloured, not applying substances likely to taint the
Grapes. The water will not do any harm if air is admitted freely.
Maintain a constant circulation with a gentle warmth in the hot- water
pipes to prevent moisture being condensed on the berries. Afford a
temperature of 65° at night, 70° to 75° by day artificially, 80° to 90°
through the day from sun, and close sufficiently early to increase to
90° or 95°. Muscat of Alexandria and Canon Hall Muscat should have;
5° more all round.

Late Hamburglis. — These are more forward than usual, and arc
advanced towards colouring where the houses have been kept open day
and night. This procedure should be continued as there is plenty of
time to colour and finish these Grapes, and provided they are ripened
in September they retain colour much better than those ripened in
August, It will be necessary to place some wasp-proof material over the

August 10, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

186

ventilators, such as hexagon netting, for these insects are very numerous
in some localities and voraciously devour the fruit, some before it is well
coloured. Bottles half full of sweetened beer should be suspended
outside, and bushels of wasps, bluebottle flies, and other predatory pests
may be drowned in a short time.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

Celery. — Showery weather has been very favourable to the growth
of Celery. In some instances, however, the rains have not been
sufficiently heavy to well soak the soil close up to the plants, and this
should at once be made good by means of the watering pot. Showery
weather is the best time for applying liquid manures or for washing in
soot and salt. Soot may be very freely dusted along the rows, but salt
must be more sparingly used. Both are excellent manures, and good
slug deterrents. Exhibition Celery should have a good soaking of liquid
manure about once a week, and only a little soil in the form of a top¬
dressing placed about the stems, the blanching being most cleanly
effected by means of several folds of brown paper. Do not bind the
latter to such an extent as to check the development of the hearts.
About one-half of the leaves ought to be enclosed by the paper, and a
month is not too much time to allow for perfect blanching.

For ordinary use the blanching may be effected by moulding up.
Commence by clearing small leaves and suckers from the plants of
white varieties, weeds also being drawn out. Then dress with soot or
salt, or the two in mixture, and wash some of this down to the roots the
same evening. Next morning chop down some of the soil from the
sides, and distribute about 3 inches of this in the trench. While this is
being done the outer stalks of the plants should be held or tied well
together. In the course of a fortnight or three weeks the hearts will be
advanced considerably, and the second moulding up may be given.
Avoid placing too much soil in the trench at one time. The final
moulding up should be given about one month before the Celery is
required for use.

Celery lieaf ivxiner. — In some gardens the Celery is quite clear
of this pest, and in others scarcely a leaf is free of them. A close look¬
out ought always to be kept for the first attack. This season the flies
were unusually early at work among the plants, piercing the leaves and
depositing the eggs, and unless all the grubs found eating their way
between the two skins are destroyed the leaves will present a very
ragged appearance. A free use of soot on and about the plants, applied
when the leaves are damp, has a deterrent effect upon the newly hatched
flies, driving them to seek fresh quarters, while if all the maggots found
in the leaves are crushed between the finger and thumb not much
harm will result.

Celerlac.— Celeriac, or Turnip-rooted Celery, ought ere this to have
been planted on the level, ground previously well manured for and
occupied by early Cauliflowers suiting it well without any further pre¬
paration beyond a good surface hoeing. What is wanted is a large,
quickly grown. Turnip-like root, a firm rich root-run being the most
likely to produce these. Keep the plants well supplied with water in
dry weather, liquid manure or soot also doing good. The surface of
the ground should be kept free of weeds. There should be no moulding
up of Celeriac, the root only being eaten either as a vegetable or
salad.

Winter Spinach. — This crop is of so much importance that more
that ordinary pains should be taken in producing it. It thrives best on
rather high, free working, fairly rich ground, the plan of growing it on
raised Asparagus-like beds answering well where the site is naturally
damp and cold. The ground ought to have been manured and dug some
time ago, forking it over lightly once since. If lime has not been given
to the selected plot during the past five or six years well whiten the
surface with newly slaked lime now and lightly stir in prior to sowing
the seeds ; no lime being needed then apply a dressing of soot. Draw
shallow drills from 12 inches to 15 inches asunder. Moisten these drills
if at all dry, and then sow the seed thinly. The Victoria or Monstrous
Viroflay is the finest of all varieties, and with this should be sown a few
long rows of either the round-seeded Summer or prickly-seeded Winter
Spinach. Another sowing should be made a fortnight or three weeks
later.

Iiate Kidney Beans. — In the autumn a few late Kidney Beans
may prove acceptable. The plants are far from being hardy, but if the
seeds are sown on somewhat high ground, where the plants can be pro¬
tected during frosty nights, they may be preserved some time after the
rest of either Runner or Kidney Beans have succumbed. Any of the
early varieties and also Canadian Wonder are suitable for present sow¬
ing. Draw the drills 2 feet asunder for the stronger growers, 18 inches
being enough for the dwarf early forms, of which Sion House is still
one of the best. If the drills are at all dry, water before sowing the
seed thinly. Thin out the seedlings to about 6 inches asunder and
mould up.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

Bedding Antirrhinums. — The white bedding variety forms a very
attractive bed, the flowering period being fully equal to that of the
majority of other plants used. Several newer forms suitable for
bedding have also been introduced. In order to have strong plants
ready for planting early next season, and which only can be depended
upon for a good effect, propagating should commence now. Short
flowerless shoots, slipped off from old plants, will root readily in a
cold frame or handlights at the foot of a north wall or other cool and
not too dark position. Dibble three or four of the cuttings round the
sides of 3-inch pots filled with gritty loamy soil, give a gentle watering,

and keep close and shaded during the hottest part of the day till they
are rooted. Some could be wintered in pots, and the rest planted in
sheltered nursery beds.

Antirrhinums from Seed. — The white bedding and other named
Antirrhinums come quite true from seed, and this is the readiest means
of raising a large number of plants. Now is a better time for sowing
than early next year, and this season’s seed will germinate more strongly
than older seed. Sow the seed thinly on the surface of previously
moistened pans of light sandy soil and very lightly cover with fine soil.
Cover with a square of glass and either moss or paper, and place in
a cool frame or handlight at the foot of a north wall or fence. When
the seedlings are large enough prick out in boxes of light soil. Being
fairly hardy, some may be planted out in nursery beds and the rest be
wintered in a cold frame.

Pentstemons. — These again are seldom very effective the same
season they are propagated, but plants raised now from either cuttings
or seed would do remarkably well next summer. Both cuttings and seeds
should be treated exactly as advised in the case of Antirrhinums. Where
hardier bedding plants are preferred to the more tender kinds, Pent¬
stemons ought certainly to be given a place. Strong old plants are most
suited to mixed borders, but late summer or autumn raised plants placed
out early into large well prepared beds and lightly staked up would
prove quite a feature in the display. A mixture of Pentstemons and
Nicotiana affinis is both bold and pleasing. As many as are wanted
should be wintered in cold frames or pits, as a very severe winter is
sometimes fatal to most of the exposed plants.

Tuberous Begonias. — If short flowerless side shoots of these are
made into cuttings, dibbled rather thickly in pans or boxes of fine
sandy soil, set in the full sunshine and sheltered from heavy rains, the
majority will strike root and form tiny tubers before the tops die down.
Left where they are and stored in a dry cellar or shed where severe
frosts cannot reach them, these small tubers will winter well and be
very handy for bedding next season. Now is also a good time to sow
seed with a view to having abundance of small tubers to make an
early start with next season. Quite new seed will germinate very
quickly and strongly, and this should be preferred, though last season’s
seed will not fail if sound at the time of sowing. Prepare several pans
or boxes, by careful draining and filling up with fine light sandy soil.
Make the surface very level and firm, but do not sand over, give a gentle
watering, and about one hour later sow the seed thinly, quite on the
surface, no covering over being attempted. Place in a cold frame on
inverted pans or pots with a view to excluding worms, cover with
squares of glass, and shade heavily. The soil must be kept uniformly
moist, not by waterings, but rather by partial immersion in a tub or
tank of water, the one thing to avoid being the disturbance of the
germinating seed. The seedlings will not make much growth, but if
undisturbed will form tubers near the size of Radish seed. Such, if
kept plump till next March, will be available for growing into strong
plants by the time they are wanted for the flower beds.

Cbrysanthemums.— If there are any bad failures in the flower
garden, and the late hot and dry weather proved very trying in many
cases, some of these might be made good by either planting out or
transplanting Madame Desgrange and Mrs. Hawkins. Both of these
varieties are very sturdy and floriferous this season, and perhaps
would do better service in the flower beds than under glass. If planted
in a sloping direction, the tops well spread out, and lightly pegged or
tied down, either variety would form a good groundwork for a few rather
tall Cockscombs. A bed or beds thus filled would rank among the most
attractive feature in a garden.

HE BEE-KEEPER.

Vf«ir— 'nn

APIARIAN NOTES.

At the Moors.

Four weeks have passed since our bees were taken to the
Heather, but, excepting two days when the sun shone at intervals
from fifteen to thirty minutes, it never blessed us with its presence
for more than five minutes at a time, dense black clouds with strong
winds prevailing through the day, and often the nights were frosty,
the grass having more the appearance of Christmas than July and
August. Bees are doing no good, but the Heather is not past yet,
and with a few fine days the honey might come into it and cheer
the desponding hearts of many bee-keepers. Although the experi¬
ence has been disappointing and provoking, I have had some
valuable lessons.

In past years it was puzzling to know the cause of dead bees at
the front of many of the hives. Sometimes this arose from fight¬
ing, the robbers being attracted by smelling the honey through
openings in the hive left for ventilation or being badly made. The
real and worst cause, however, is swarming. The bees of one
swarm, often with many queens, divide themselves into clusters
over a number of hives, and, entering them, slaughtering as often
as not takes place ; the queens escaping injury cause a swarm to
issue and repeat the disaster over other hives. When the bees of a

186

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 10, 1893.

swarm are well received and the weather is favourable the hives
rise greatly in weight. When a stray queen enters another hive
and is well received piping begins and continues until one or the
other is deposed, or till a swarm issues, consequent of the two
queens.

I have been several times asked “ if I ever heard a laying queen
pipe.” I have, but once only, when there were none but herself in
the hive. At the present time I have four laying queens piping,
answering the call of the usurpers, and one has piped for two
weeks. If bee-keepers become impressed with these facts, giving
no heed whatever to the advice given on how to prevent swarming,
they will find the work more enjoyable as well as profitable. In
addition to the above cases, I have three hives that swarmed a
month since. I excised all the royal cells at the proper time, yet
others were raised and the operation had to be performed a second
time, swarming being repeated, the cause in every case being a fer¬
tilised queen laying and in the hive at the same time as her rival
sisters. — A Lanaekshike Bee-keepee.

•**A11 correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editob” or to “The Publishee.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the stafE often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Border Carnations (^Lamg Mather'). — The box of blooms
arrived as we were preparing for press. We can only say they are bright
and beautiful. Lady Nina Balfour, blush pink, shows to advantage in
good company by the breadth of petal, while the blooms diffuse
refreshing fragrance.

Seedllngr Violas (TF. Reid). — The flowers, as Violas often do,
arrived with the petals curled. They appear to lack substance, and we
should scarcely think the varieties possess any great commercial value,
though others may be raised from them w'orth exhibiting at one of the
leading Pansy and Viola shows.

Plants for Exportation {Quintero). — Fruit trees, Eoses, and
various kinds of plants are successfully transported over longer voyages
than you mention by nurserymen who engage largely in an export
trade, and they know the best time to send and the right methods of
packing to adopt. A few losses must naturally be expected and
duplicate plants ordered accordingly.

Flsb IVIanure (F.C.). — The question you ask scarcely permits of
a definite reply. Possibly the raw fish might give the best results in a
dry season. We should prefer to invest in chemical manure obtained
with the essentia] elements guaranteed, especially for Tomatoes and
Vines. Why not, as you have an opportunity, determine the question
by experiment 1 No other method is so good.

Irish Peach Apple {J. B.). — This Apple is more prone than
many others to bear at the end of the branches, and it is not, as a rule,
wise to shorten these after a suflicient number have been obtained for
forming a bush or tree. Generally pruning should be limited to
thinning out the least promising parts now to admit light and air to the
remainder and thus improve them for bearing.

Fruit for Profit {An Enthusiast). — The Apple trees should have
the ground to themselves as bushes or low standards, and 800 trees
per acre is far too many as a permanency. They should be 12 feet apart,
and that is 302 trees per acre. The trees of course could be planted in
the first instance 6 feet apart, and at the end of six years every other
row and tree could be transferred to other ground. Plums may be
grown as standards with Gooseberries, Currants, and Easpberries
between them, and they will bring in good returns so long as they are
worth keeping — say a dozen years — then it is batter to rely on the Plums
alone. There is every reason to anticipate that the demand for fruit
will increase, and first-class Apples are likely to realise a remunerative
price for some time to come, but inferior fruit will be a drug in the
market. Apples grown on the Paradise stock are usually preferable to
those from trees on Crab. The produce per tree and consequently acre

depends on the distance, variety, soil, season, and management, so that
no estimate can be given. “ Profitable Fruit Growing ” may perhaps be
useful to you, and may be had from this office for Is. 3d. by post.

Tomatoes Spotted {A. A. B.). — The specks on the fruit appeared
to be caused by the fungus Cladosporium lycopersici, but on examining
them we found no fungal bodies, and though the epidermal tissues are
destroyed to the extent of the scabs, the cells beneath are large and
singularly healthy. You will notice that the extremities of the plants,
notably the younger leaves, are yellowish, that spots or blotches appear
on the stems and older leaves, especially the leafstalks, and that the evil
begins at the extremity of the plant and descends to the roots. The
disease is called chlorosis, and is believed to be due to imperfect
nutrition. It has been recommended to use dressings containing kainit,
nitrate of soda, superphosphate, and iron sulphate, but little benefit has
been derived from any of them after the disease has developed, and it is
hardly likely that scabbing will be prevented by applications at the
roots. We should like to see examples later in the season, with a view
to affording further information.

“Blind” Chrysantbemums (TF. Wells). — Many hundreds of
plants have been injured this year by a small weevil-like creature
lurking in the points and piercing the soft portion near the apex, thereby
causing distortion and blindness. You appear to have caught the
enemy at work, but the specimens you send are larger than any we have
seen, and may or may not be a different species. At the present
moment we have not examples of both forms for examination. The
matter is, however, of small moment in comparison with finding the
means of preventing the injury, and we know of more than one large
collection of plants saved from “ blindness ” this year by lightly dressing
them twice a week with tobacco powder. This is simple, and has proved
effectual. Try it, and let us know the result in your case. We may
add that the name of your insect is Systellonotus triguttatus, the winged
form being males, the others females, and both, as you have found,
remarkably active.

Proposed Vineries on Shale {Pitt Hill). — The shale being of
the carboniferous formation, weathers, as you say, into a plastic clay,
and naturally produces Heaths and Sedges, but it does not contain
anything of a deleterious nature likely to injure Vine roots ; indeed, it
is doubtful if they would penetrate it. When burned, as you are no
doubt aware, it forms excellent material for walks and drives. The
bottom of the intended border should slope to a drain, being made
firm and even, and that must have proper fall and outlet, which will be
easily effected in your case, and will to some extent aerate the border as
well as render stagnation from water impossible. This is a vital point,
especially if you leave the clay in, which we should do, using 9 inches
thickness of brickbats, and over these 3 inches thick of mortar rubbish
from an old building, freed of pieces of wood ; then the good loam
and turf on top, well mixed with such additions of turfy loam as you
may command to make a depth of about 30 inches of good soil. It
would not be desirable to rely on the shale for drainage.

Insects Infesting- Iicttuce Roots {R. P.). — The insects belong
to the family of aphides, and the group that lacks the two tubes so
conspicuous in the others on the hinder segments of the back of the
abdomen. There are two species hurtful to Lettuce — Pemphigus fusci-
frons and P. lactucarius, the last being usually the more common and
destructive, forming the fine cottony filaments secreted from the bodies
of the insects, which line the cavities hollowed out of the soil between
the roots, more plentifully than the other. It is diflBcult to propound
a preventive, as the attack is not suspected until leaf-flagging indicates
injury to the roots. Drenching the ground with soapsuds round the
plants is beneficial, especially if half a pint of tobacco juice is added to
10 gallons of soapsuds. The latter must not contain bleaching powder,
but ordinary soapsuds from laundries, containing soap and soda only,
are safe. Lime water is also obnoxious to the insects, using 1 lb. of
quicklime to 3 gallons of water, stirring well, and then let stand
two or three days, in which time pour off the clear water and soak the
ground with it. After the Lettuces are cleared off give a good dressing
of lime and soot, and dig in with a fork.

Propagratlng and Wintering Heliotropes {Torli), — The present
is the exact time for establishing a stock of Heliotropes for flower beds
next summer. Cuttings strike with great freedom in a close warm
frame or case, temperature 60° to 70°. We take them from plants in the
beds, choosing well-exposed growths, not too soft nor yet hard, but
crisp when cut. The extreme tips are often too soft and are then
removed, and if they produce flower buds these are cat off. They are
inserted an inch or more apart in a firm layer of sifted sandy soil,
surfaced with pure sand, on an unsifted loamy mixture, this a little
more than half filling the pots, and the whole well watered before the
cuttings are taken. These are made about 3 to 4 inches long, the lower
half or a little more divested of leaves, the work of preparation, inser¬
tion, and removing them to close quarters being done quickly to avert
any flagging of the leaves. A light sprinkling is given to settle the
sand round the stems, and the requisite shading and moisture are
provided to keep the leaves fresh. In the course of a few days they will
remain fresh with less shading, and air and light in gradually increasing
quantities must be admitted until the plants will endure full ventilation
and bright sun, both of which are essential for hardening their tissues.
With plenty of space available in a light house in which a winter
temperature of about 55° could be maintained, we should establish a

August 10, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

137

sufficient number of the young plants separately in 4-inch pots, and
these with good attention would be in splendid condition for bedding
next season. Failing the requisite space we should insert five cuttings
in 3^-inch pots and expect every one to grow, then winter the plants in
these pots. Early in the year we should transfer them without division
to 5^-inch pots, and they would afford abundance of cuttings for striking
in heat in the spring, and these would make excellent plants by the
end of May. From six pots of cuttings, and with suitable cultural
conveniences, 300 plants could easily be raised by the time required
for bedding out, and it would be no great task to have twice that
number. It is to be remembered that Heliotropes cannot be kept
healthy in cold greenhouses from which frost is only just excluded,
and the temperature should rarely fall or not long remain below 50° in
the winter.

Fungrus on Her IMajesty Rose (id J.). — The disease on the
Rose shoot is not orange fungus, for that is bright orange. The shoot
of Her Majesty Rose sent by you is infested with the ordinary Rose
mildew, and forms a felt-like coat over the young wood, living on the
outer surface of the cells of the infested parts. This stage of the fungus
is known as Oi'dium leucoconium ; later, dark brown or black specks
appear seated amid the felting and spring from the same arachnoid or
web-like mycelium. These bodies are the “fruits” or resting stage of
the fungus, and by these the parasite survives from year to year, for the
spores of the first stage cannot survive the rigours of a severe winter

OOVENT GARDEN MARKET. — AUGUST 9th.
Heavy supplies to hand with trade quiet.

FRUIT.

s.

d.

s.

d.

d.

3.

d.

Apples, per bushel . . . .

1

0 to G

0

Grapes per lb .

0

9

to 2

0

„ Tasmanian, per case

0

0

0

0

Lemons, case .

10

0

15

0

„ Nova Scotia, per

Oranges, per 100 ..

4

0

9

0

barrel .

0

0

0

0

Peaches, per doz .

1

6

8

0

Cherries, half sieve . . . .

0

0

0

0

Plums, per half sieve

1

6

2

6

Filberts, per 100 lbs.

30

0

35

0

St. Michael Pines, each ..

2

0

5

0

Gooseberries, half sieve . .

0

0

0

0

Strawberries, per lb .

0

0

0

0

VEGETABLES.

S.

d.

s.

d.

3.

d.

S.

d.

Asparagus, per bundle

0

0

to 0

0

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2

to 0

0

Beans, Eidney, per lb. . .

0

3

0

4

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

5

Beet, Red, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

2

0

3

0

Carrots, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . , . .

2

0

3

0

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

4

6

Celery, bundle .

1

0

1

3

Salsafy, bundle .

1

0

1

6

Coleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Scorzonera, bundle . . . .

1

6

0

0

Cucumbers, dozen . . . .

1

6

3

0

Seakale, per basket . . , .

0

0

0

0

Endive, dozen .

1

3

1

6

Shallots, pftr lb .

0

3

0

0

Herbs, bunch .. ,. .,

0

3

0

0

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch . , . , . .

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

6

Lettuce, dozen .

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

G

Mushrooms, punnet ,. ..

0

9

1

0

AVERAGE WHOLESALE PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.

except under glass, where the resting conceptacles are seldom produced,
and the mildew is much easier destroyed or arrested in its growth.
But the mildew infesting Roses under glass is a different species, and we
should be obliged if anyone noticing blackish and roundish specks
among the mildew on Rose trees under glass would forward specimen.
The dark speck stage of the fungus on your Rose is scientifically called
Sphoerotheca pannosa, and in that form the fungus is practically
indestructible. Remedial measures must be directed to subduing the
mildew in its earliest stages. This Mr. Bardney effected under glass by
syringing the trees with a softsoap solution occasionally, and it has been
found equally efficacious outdoors. The syringing itself unseats the
spores, and the potash of the softsoap destroys the mycelium, and
renders the leaves for a time proof against the spores. About 1 oz. of
softsoap to a gallon of boiling water, thoroughly dissolving, and when
as cool as the hand can be borne in it for a minute, applied with a
syringe, is effectual when taken in time, upon the first appearance of
the disease. Another good remedy is to slake a pound of fresh quick¬
lime in a copper, adding a pound of flowers of sulphur and a gallon of
water, and boil for ten minutes, constantly stirring whilst it is boiling,
then allowed to settle ; the clear liquid is poured off and placed in a
stone bottle, kept well corked in a dark place. The plants should be
syringed with a 1 per cent, solution of this preparation — that is, half a
pint to six and a quarter gallons of water.

IMCealy Bug on Vines (A. J.^. — By the means mentioned in our
last issue the Grapes may be made passable for table — that is, those not
coated with the filthy secretion of the insects and become black with
fungus. It would be desirable to facilitate the clearing of the Vines as
much as possible, for there is nothing you can well do until the crop is
off. Immediately that is effected cut away all the laterals and as much
of the young wood as can be spared — that is, shorten the bearing shoots
to about six or eight leaves of their base, so that if fresh growth is made
the pruning buds will not be started. Burn all the trimmings, and syringe
the Vines thoroughly, wetting every part of the house, with a mixture
of a wineglassful of petroleum to 4 gallons of water, the oil being
forced into tbe water by driving a syringeful of the mixture into
the vessel and the next over the Vines, and so on. The syringing is
best done in the evening of a calm day, and the house closed. Repeat
every other day for a week, twice the following week, and once a
week afterwards until the leaves fall, collecting and burning them.
Prune as soon as the leaves are all down, and burn the prunings. Then
strip tbe Vines of any loose bark, not peeling them into the quick, and
thoroughly wash with a solution of softsoap, 3 ozs. to a gallon of water,
adding one teaspoonful of phenyle, mixing well, applying with a brush,
and reaching well into every hole, angle, and crevice, taking care not to
damage the buds. Thoroughly cleanse the house, the woodwork and
ironwork with water, softsoap, and a brush, the glass with clean water,
and limewash the walls. Remove the surface soil, and supply fresh
loam in its place. If care is taken not to introduce plants with mealy
bug into the house, or it does not adjoin another in which plants are
grown infested with it ,we do not think you will be further troubled,
but it is a good plan to syringe the house before starting the Vines with
the petroleum mixture. If you cannot procure phenyle of a chemist,
dissolve 3 ozs. of softsoap in a gallon of boiling water, pour into a
2-gallon stone bottle, add a wineglassful of petroleum, cork and churn,
moving up and down or to and fro with the hands for fifteen minutes,
then pour out a little and apply as before stated, but not hotter than
the hand can bear.

Orchid Blooms in variety.

8.

d.

8.

d

3.

d.

3.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms . .

2

0

to 4

0

Mignonette, 12 bunches .,

2

0 to 4

0

Asters (French), per bunch

0

9

1

3

Myosotis, dozen bunches . .

1

6

3

0

Bouvardias, bunch ..

0

6

1

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

0

12

6

Calceolaria, dozen bunches

4

0

6

0

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

9

0

Carnations, 12 blooms

1

0

3

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

Carnations, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

bunches .

3

0

6

0

Chrysanthemums, dozen

Primula (double) 12 sprays

0

9

1

0

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

6

0

Cornflower, dozen bunches.

1

0

2

0

Roses (indoor), dozen . .

0

6

1

6

Eucharis, dozen .

3

0

4

0

„ Red, doz. bunches

4

0

8

0

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

0

Lilium lancifolium, dozen

„ Yellow, dozen .. ..

o

0

4

0

blooms .

1

6

3

0

Stocks, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

Lilium longiflornm 12

Sweet Peas, doz. bunches . .

2

0

4

0

blooms .

2

0

4

0

Sweet Sultan, pet dozen

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

bunches .

«>

«>

0

4

0

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Tuberoses, 12 blooms. . . .

0

4

0

6

Marguerites, 12 bunches , .

2

0

4

0

PLANTS

IN POTS.

s.

d.

s.

d.

3.

d.

8.

d.

Arbor Vitse (golden) dozen

6

0 to 12

0

Ivy Geraniums .

4

0

to 6

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Lilium lancifolium per doz.

12

0

18

0

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen 12

0

24

0

Balsams, per dozen . . . ,

3

0

6

0

Lobelia, per doz .

3

0

6

0

Campanula, per dozen

9

0

18

0

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

3

e

4

0

Dracaena terminalis, per

Marguerite Daisy, dozen , .

6

0

12

0

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Mignonette, per doz .

4

0

6

0

Dracaena viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Buonvmus,var., dozen ..

6

0

18

0

Nasturtiums, per dozen ..

4

0

6

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24

0

Palms, in var., each ..

1

0

15

0

Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

4

0

18

0

„ (specimens) .. ..

21

0

63

0

Ferns (small) prr Irindred

4

0

6

0

Pelargoniums, per dozen,.

6

0

xz

0

Ficus eiastica, each .. .,

1

6

7

6

„ scarlet, per dozen . .

3

0

6

0

Foliage plants, var., each..

2

0

10

0

Petunia, per dozen , . . .

6

0

9

0

Fuchsia, per dozen .. ..

5

0

9

0

Rhodanthe, per dozen

4

0

6

0

Hydrangea, per dozen

12

0

24

0

FARM ORCHARDS.

Barren Trees.

Why are barren trees so often left uncared for, and old
worn-out trees not cut down ? Because the orchard has been
regarded as a mere adjunct to the homestead, a handy enclosure
for calves or a sick horse, or any casual animals — a useful
paddock in point of fact, the rent of which is obtained from
the grass growing under the trees rather than from the fruit
upon them. If proof were wanted that it may be more — very
much more than this — we might point to the Kent Cherry

IVames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
(IF. -4.). — Haemanthus coccineus.

orchards, where the grazing is let to the resident tenant, and
the fruit crop is sold for the landlord by annual auction to the
highest bidder. The Cherry crop is so valuable, that though
the laud on which the trees grow is let, the right to the fruit
is retained by the landlord, just as is the right to minerals.
To him often enough the fruit is something like a gold
mine. Would that the crop of an ordinary farm orchard

138

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Augnst 10, 1893.

were so regarded by the tenant at whose disposal they are,
for then no quarter would be given to barren trees, they
would either be rendered fruitful or have to give place to
other trees.

But we may be told that barrenness, or in other words crop
failure, frequently occurs from the destruction of the blossom.
It does, and yet this might often be prevented if only due
thought were given to the provision of shelter when the trees
are planted. A sheltering belt of Lombardy Poplar mixed
with Austrian Pine, with an inner line of Myrobellan Plum is a
necessity for every orchard at all exposed to wind from the
north-east or south-west. It is these cross winds which play
havoc with the crop. The first in spring, when its icy breath
destroys in a single blast the hope and promise of a year ; the
last in autumn, when the fruit is swept from the trees on the
wings of a furious sou’- wester. Last year we were asked why a
certain Apple tree had never had a crop of fruit during the eight
years of the farmer’s tenancy ; yet we were told it was full of
blossom every year. The tree was evidently in perfect health
and full vigour, and root-pruning was our first thought. But a
careful survey of the surroundings showed the possibility of
cold cutting winds from the north-east past an angle of the
farmhouse right on the tree. Our suggestion of an attempt
to break the force of this wind by means of a wall screen
during blossom time was acted upon this spring, with the
gratifying result of a capital crop of fruit now.

Another cause of crop failure is undoubtedly attributable to
the planting of so many sorts of Apple of a shy-fruiting habit,
and of Pears unsuitable for the climate. “ Fifteen years ago
did I plant that Blenheim Pippin,” said a worthy farmer to us
when we were inspecting his orchard, “and it has never yet
had a crop of fruit.” Well, it is a grand Apple, and worth
waiting a while for, but there is a limit to waiting, very much
inside fifteen years ; life is too short for that, and we should
certainly have shortened the branches and re-grafted that barren
tree with one or other of the bold and constant fruiters long
ago. Too much stress cannot be placed upon the judicious
selection of sorts, in doing this something more is required than
the mere sight of a tree heavily laden with fruit. On the day
before writing this article we saw three fine standard trees in
an old orchard bearing a heavy crop of Blenheim Pippins, and
we were told that this was tbe third consecutive heavy crop
they had borne. Tet we dare not recommend it for small
orchards, because it is notoriously a slow and often shy bearer,
and there are plenty of sorts with as fine if not as handsome
fruit which yield early and continuous crops. It is for this
all-important reason that preference is given to such sorts
for orchard planting as Keswick Codlin, Potts’ Seedling,
Ecklinville Seedling, Warner’s King, Lemon Pippin, Golden
Noble, Duchess of Oldenburg, Beauty of Kent, and Bramley’s
Seedling.

All worthless sorts, barren or otherwise, should be got rid
of, and in making arrangements for replanting at leaf-fall in
autumn a few select sorts only should be planted. If the
intention is to sell the fruit then about six sorts would be ample,
planting several trees of each, and planting so well that there
may be no doubt about the future of the trees. We shall
probably have something more to say about sorts before planning
time.

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

The cutting of winter Oats and Rye has this year been quickly
followed by the general harvest, which has not been seriously hindered
by wet weather, though heavy showers of rain have been frequent, as
the fresh green herbage of pastures everywhere shows plainly enough.
Stubble Turnips, Trifolium incarnatum, and Italian Rye Grass are being
sown exceptionally early, and second growths of Clover are much more
abundant than the first growth was. Thin crops of late sown Oats had
much better be used as green forage, or for silage, than be left late upon
the ground to ripen. We have seen some fields of both Oats and Barley
where the ripening is so uneven, that among Oats especially there must
be a serious loss of corn before the crop is saved. It is practically two

crops, and if only required for home use would be turned to best
account for silage, but we fear this is too much to hope for where
ensilage has never been tried.

Root crops have improved wonderfully during the last two or three
weeks. Seed which lay dormant in the soil during the drought sprung
into growth of marvellous activity with the first heavy shower, and
growth has continued with such rapidity that Mangolds, Swedes,
Carrots, and White Turnips have rushed up so quickly that plant¬
thinning could hardly be got over fast enough. We have seen soine
thin crops, some half failures, but on the whole the root crop bids fair
to be one of much greater abundance than at one time seemed possible.
The drought has shov/n us many weak points in the water storage of
several farms. This is an important matter which must have attention
this autumn, both for the convenience of tenants and for the actual
improvement of property. It is possible to accumulate enough water
for summer requirements in most meadows by means of land-drains and
ditches, as well as by a regular watercourse. It is simply a matter of
soil excavation and in some instances of clay puddling for a dam.

THE FIELD VOLE AND ITS NATURAL ENEMIES.

The Board of Agriculture, in view of the great injury committed by
field voles (often spoken of as mice) in Scotland, have issued extracts
from the report of the Committee that was appointed to investigate
the subject. Illustrations are given of the short-tailed vole (Arvicola
agrestis) and of the long tailed field mouse (Mus sylvaticus), as well as
of their natural enemies the short-eared owl, kestrel, sparrowhawk,
stoat, and weasel.

The Departmental Committee recommend that strict injunctions
should be given by landowners that the birds mentioned should not be
destroyed. Their presence in full numbers, though inadequate to avert
an outbreak of voles, would undoubtedly tend to mitigate it, and as
has been proved in the case of the short-eared owl, they have the faculty
of multiplying abnormally in presence of an unusual supply of food.
They are, at all events, most useful allies to man in combating attacks
of ground vermin.

The Committee deprecate in the strongest manner possible the use of
the pole-trap for the capture of hawks. Besides the inhumanity of this
device, it is indiscriminate, and harmless owls, kestrels, and buzzards
are just as likely to be taken by it as are the more mischievous species.

While admitting that it is hardly reasonable to expect that stoats
should be allowed to multiply in game-coverts, or in the vicinity of
pheasant coops, the Committee have no hesitation in recommending that
weasels, which are persistent mouse hunters, and do little damage to
game, should not be molested, at least in moorlands and hill pastures,
where they can do little harm and much good.

PAMPHLET ON DOGS. — From Messrs, Spratt & Co., Bermondsey, we
have received a copy of a pamphlet written for them by Mr. Gordon
Stables, M.D., R.N., entitled “ The Dog from Puppyhood to Age.” It is
excellently illustrated, and lovers of dogs will find in it a vast amount
of useful information. The writer is widely known as an authority on
this and kindred subjects, and his name may safely be taken as a criterion
of merit. The price of the publication is Id.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
OAiiDEN Square, London.

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

Date.

9 A.M.

In THE Day.

Rain.

1893.

July & August.

j Barometer

j at 32°, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday . .

30

29-868

6-2-3

58-0

N.W.

62-1

69-4

54-8

125-4

54-2

0-033

Monday . .

31

29-883

60-1

53-7

W.

61-3

69'3

49-6

117-0

46-6

—

Tuesday . .

1

29-998

59-9

53-6

N.

60-8

69-4

47-9

118-6

43-8

0-106

Wednesday

2

29-855

65-0

58-7

W,

61-4

72-2

57-4

119-0

56-9

—

Thursday . .

3

29-870

64-2

59-2

s.w.

61-7

68-1

54-8

95-4

50-9

0-103

Friday

4

29-734

64-5

60-1

s.w.

61-9

73-3

59-9

l-.'2-l

59-7

0-783

Saturday ..

5

29-858

64-1

56-9

w.

60-8

71-4

53-2

119-7

50-2

—

29-867

62 9

57-2

61-4

70-4

53-9

116-7

51-8

1-025

REMARKS.

30th. — Rain in small hours ; much sunshine during the day, but cloudy at times, and
a heavy shower at 0.30 P.M.

1st. — Breezy and sunny, with cloudy intervals and occasional spots of rain.

1st.— Alternate cloud and sunshine, the latter greatly preponderating ; rain after
11 P.M.

2nd. — Rain till 4 A.M. ; cloudy at times in morning ; brilliant afternoon and evening.

3rd. — Generally overcast and windy ; occasional gleams of sun ; rain at night.

4th.— Rain till 3.31 A.M., then overcast till noon, followed by sunshine till 1.30 P.M. ;
thunder storms in afternoon with heavy rain 0'48 inch falling in twelve
minutes at 3 P.M.

Sth. — Brilliant from sunrise to 11.30 A.M., frequently cloudy after.

An unsettled week, with a rather heavy thunderstorm on the 4th, Temperature
slightly below the average. — G. J. Symons.

August 17, 1893. J

189

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

IT is not for the sake of Biblical comparison that the great
Vines to which a passing reference is about to be made are
described as the Goliaths of Grapedom, They are not dangerous
monsters, calling for destruction from the sling o£ some horticul¬
tural David, but, on the contrary, are looked upon with admira¬
tion and pleasure as examples of cultural skill, and of the inherent
vigour of the world-renowned fruit. Truly the Vine is a plant of
generous strength and large endeavour, loving to stretch its limbs
freely, and to forage unrestricted in the earth and in the air
Circumstances compel its restriction in many places, but when
unfettered and unconfined there are many remarkable examples of
its capacities for self-development.

“ Men like big things,” said the late “ Single-handed ” in one
of those communications which were the delight of Journal readers
a few years ago, and in tones of gentle reproach he went on to
deprecate the neglect which fell upon many small gems of the
flower world through the attention devoted to larger objects. He
did not make any direct reference to Vines, and probably did not
have them in his mind when penning the lines from which I have,
quoted. And indeed there would have been no grounds for using
them as another illustration of the accuracy of his observations
In the vast majority of cases in which Grapes are cultivated no
attempt is made to strive for the production of giants, but rather
a restrictive system is pursued in order to provide for the inclusion
of a number of varieties, and it is only under exceptional circum¬
stances that huge Vines are grown. Nevertheless, it would be
beside the fact to deny that gardeners as a body take a deep
interest in every specimen of extraordinary development. The
man who only grows table Crotons does not withhold appreciation
from 8 feet giants if they are satisfactory in health, cleanliness,
and colour ; nor does the kitchen gardener, whose Onions are only
8 to 10 ozs. weight, fail to inspect 2^-lb. examples with admiration
when he sees them exhibited. Strange, therefore, would it be if,
in the case of a fruit in which so much interest centres as the
Grape, special attention were not paid to the wonderful Vines
which are dotted here and there over the gardens of the country.
They occupy a position which gives them prominence over those
that are only of ordinary dimensions. They are, so to say, the
reigning family of the Grape nation.

Journal readers have heard something about the great Vines at
Manresa House Roehampton, Speddoch, and Cumberland Lodge,
and now I should like to say a few words about another giant, not
perhaps so remarkable in some respects as they, but still a noble
and noteworthy example. This is the Black Hamburgh at Silwood
Park, Ascot, the residence of Thomas Cordes, Esq. A recent note
from his gardener, Mr. T. Grant, led to a visit, which I considered
well repaid by an inspection of what is, without doubt, one of the
finest Vines in the country. The respect that is promptly accorded
to a man who claims to have read every number of the Journal for
a quarter of a century is increased by a survey of the famous Vine
under his charge. If any hypercritical person desired further
proof of Mr. Grant’s intelligence and discrimination than the fact
noted, he would find it in a garden that is well managed in every
way, and in a Vine that is not only of exceptional dimensions, but
is in the best of health, and carrying a splendid crop of fruit.

The Silwood Vine occupies a lean-to house 128 feet long and

No. 686. — VOL, XXVII., Third Series.

12 feet wide, with a height at the back of 12 feet and at the front
of 7 feet. The whole of the roof is covered with rods and laterals.
In some respects the Vine resembles and in others differs from that
at Roehampton. To begin with, the main stem is a much more
prominent feature of it. There is a clear trunk over 6 feet high
with a girth at its greatest circumference of 3 feet 2 inches. To
imagine an orchard standard of such dimensions is easy enough,
but for a Vine it is marvellous indeed. A small boy could have
quite a comfortable climb up this wonderful stem, and if left to his
own devices after reaching the top would find himself in a happy
hunting ground after his own heart. It forks there into two large
limbs, these branching in turn into smaller ones, the rods running
right and left in a line with the back wall, and the fruiting growths
trained from the upper part of them. Here is where the re¬
semblance to the Manresa Vine comes in, for with it the same
system is pursued. The laterals of the Silwood Vine, like those
of its great rival, are not all trained regularly nearly at right angles
with the rods, but many are laid in diagonally.

The Vine is not planted in the centre of the house, but about
70 feet from the door. Seven rods run the length of the house on
this side, giving a total of 490 feet, and on the left 9 rods occupy
the space, giving a total of 522 feet. Besides these there are young
rods laid in, chiefly on the right hand side, where the old ones are
thinnest, to the extent of quite 100 feet. The total length of rod
may, therefore, be set down at 1112 feet. The foliage is large and
healthy ; indeed, considering the age of the Vine (about which
more further on), the size of the leaves is surprising. And the
crop ? for after all that is of the greatest importance. It is in
every way a fine one. The number of bunches is 830, ranging in
weight from half a pound to 3 lbs. There is a good sprinkling of
2 and 2^ lbs. bunches, and a fair calculation is that the clusters
average li lb. throughout, or a total of 1037 lb?, in round figures.
A noteworthy feature is the large size of the berries. Many of the
bunches are quite fit for showing, colour and finish being excellent-
It may be noted, too, that the variety is an exceptionally well
flavoured one.

It will be conceded that, however the Silwood Vine may
compare with the other giants of which we bear and read in
dimensions, it would be difficult to find its superior in respect to
fruiting. Remarkable indeed is the picture presented by its long
lines of bunches, hundred upon hundred stretching overhead.
Looking from one end they seem to close up at the other into one
broad blue mass of fruit. They are striking to a degree without a
doubt, but they open up reflections as to the reverse side of the
shield. What a task the thinning of this house alone must be !
Every cultural item is carried out as conscientiously with the giant
Vine as with others carrying only a dozen bunches. It is in
robust, vigorous health, the leaves stout, substantial, and free from
insect enemies. The Vine may be pointed to with pride not only
for its extraordinary size but for its splendid condition. A unique
and interesting comparison could be secured by placing the
Chinaman Chang, with his 8 feet 6 inches of stature, beside the
huge Vine the next time he visits England. As he is reputed to
have strong horticultural tastes he would doubtless enjoy the
experience.

Questions may perhaps suggest themselves as to the age of the
Vine, the character of the border, and other matters. The age is
not definitely known, but is believed to be from 100 to 110 years.
If this be so it is quite a veteran compared with the Vine raised
and grown by Mr. Davis. Unfortunately, no record of its planting
exists. It is true that many cottagers know its history, but
unfortunately they all tell a different story, which is rather
remarkable considering that there is no doubt in any case that each
is telling the whole truth and nothing but the truth about the
matter. At least six of them are prepared to swear positively that
the Vine was planted by his grandfather — another very remarkable
fact. One would think that some of these worthies had been

No. 2342.— Von. LXXXTX., OLD Series.

140

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 17, 1893.

trained by the continental guides whom Mark Twain has told us
about in “ The Innocents Abroad,” several of whom sold him half
of a sacred relic, and others the whole of it. Under the circum¬
stances there is room for reasonable doubt as to the real age of the
Vine, and that point must be passed over undecided.

Two facts seem to show that it was first planted in association
with others. One of these is that the front wall is built with
arches throughout, and the other that the Vine, as already
mentioned, is not in the centre of the structure. Probably it
originally had companions, and these were removed one by one
when it was observed that the Black Hamburgh was bent on
developing into something out of the common. It is planted
inside, but there is no border either inside or out. Where the
roots are feeding no man knows. There are none at the surface.
Probably the majority have gone into the lower strata of gravel
and sand, and betaken themselves in the direction of the lake
which is a considerable distance away. There is a depth of about
4 feet of soil before coming to the gravel. It is light and sandy,
but has been rendered more substantial by manorial additions
From the front wall of the vinery to a wall opposite there is a
distance of 88 feet. This ground was originally not cropped, and
the wall left bare, the argument being that the vegetables and
fruit trees would rob the Yine ; but as there was a choice assort¬
ment of Nettles, Docks, &c., when Mr. Grant took charge, and the
Yine still lived, he thought he might just as well put in something
useful. The walls are now covered with trees, the ground cropped
with vegetables, and Tomatoes even grown on the front wall of
the vinery. The Yine seems to go on better than ever. The
ground has been manured very heavily for the vegetables, and the
soil thus enriched, a course which few would find fault with. On
another point, however, the present grower comes into direct
conflict with the prevailing opinion, and that is in relation to the
burying of animal carcases in the border. He believes in it and
practises it, except that instead of planting dead donkeys he
generally plants dead deer. Instances have been quoted of carcases
being buried in borders and years afterwards not a root found near
them. This is exactly contrary to the experience of the Silwood
gardener. His observation has taught him, he says, that it is quite
correct so long as the mass is putrid, but that when quite decom¬
posed the roots do undoubtedly seek and feed upon it.

Somewhat lengthened reference has been made to the Silwood
Yine because it has not been previously described, and not because
it is advanced as the finest Yine in Britain. There are others which
exceed it in dimensions, and which perhaps produce heavier crops.
The Manresa Yine, for instance, fills a house 224 feet long and
11 feet wide, and is said to cover 3825 square feet of glass. It has
seven rods running parallel with the wall, like the Silwood Yine
but their aggregate length considerably exceeds that of the latter
amounting to 1400 feet, as against the 1112 feet of the Ascot
Goliath. If anything, however, the crop is a little lighter. The
Koehampton Yine, which has again been a wonderful sight this
year, has carried 706 bunches, weighing 940 lbs., Mr. Cordes’
giant producing 1037 lbs., and it may be said that the crop
from these two Yines is nearly 17| cwts. of excellent Grapes. The
Manresa Yine is in admirable condition, being vigorous, healthy,
and clean, with grand laterals well matured and giving the best
promise for another season. Both it and the Silwood Yine are
magnificent examples, of which the respective gardeners may be
justly proud.

The Yine at Speddoch in Dumfriesshire, which formed the
subject of an able communication in the Journal last summer, is
another of the Goliaths of Grapedom. It fills a house 60 feet by
20 feet, and is trained vertically instead of horizontally. Its
champion made no claim for its supremacy on the score of
dimensions, and as he states that its girth at the ground just below
its branches is 2 feet 4 inches as against the 3 feet 2 inches of the
Silwood Yine, and the house is much smaller than that covering
the latter, which in turn is smaller than the Koehampton structure,

such a claim could certainly not be substantiated. When he spoke
of its crop, however, he had something quite different to say. The
number of bunches was “ considerably over 500.” This, I might
remark in passing, is a somewhat loose statement ; surely there was
no insuperable obstacle to, their being counted. Then we were told
that the smallest of them could not be much less than 2 lbs. in
weight, while some of the largest weighed 4 or 5 lbs. and upwards.
This is very remarkable for a Yine nearly a hundred years old.
The total weight in 1891 was “ considerably ” (vague word) “ over
1000 lbs., and it was estimated that the 1892 crop was going to
exceed that by 200 lbs. If it did so, if 1200 lbs. of Grapes were
actually cut from the Speddoch Yine, then beyond doubt it is
more remarkable than either of the others in fruiting, and it must
unquestionably be a splendid Yine.

Two other giants of the Grape world are the Cumberland
Lodge Yine, which fills a house 138 feet long and 24 feet wide, and
the Breadalbane one, which is said to cover 4275 superficial feet of
roof space, and may thus be fairly awarded the palm as the largest
Yine in the kingdom. I am tempted, in the absence of any
personal knowledge of it and its cropping powers, to suggest that a
few notes by someone who has seen it and secured statistics would
be of great interest to readers of the Journal. — W. P. W.

BAD MELONS.

“ It will soon be time to ask what Melons are grown for,”
observed one of the judges at a show recently. He was suffering
by a surfeit after tasting about twenty fruits, not one of them
even second rate in quality and most of them positively offensive.
Perhaps the adjudicator was not in the most amiable mood, and
he certainly could not judge another class till he banished the
horrid “after taste,” which made him shudder, by taking a little
brandy. Some of the fruits were in a state of semi-fermentation ;
one seemed to have a paraffin flavour, and the other tasted as if it
had been pickled in salt. To say that several were no better than
Turnips would be a libel on a good old vegetable. They were not
half so pleasant to the taste as a tender slice of a crisp sweet
Turnip.

“ What are suchMelons grown for?” The majority of them could
not have been made palatable even with sugar and wine. Perhaps
they were grown to “look well ” on the table. Three of them
were presentable, the remainder miserable enough in appearance ;
some not half a pound in weight, others innocent of netting ; some
“ pitted ” by the nibbling of thrips or other insects that had been
trying them. In a word the fruits as a whole were not fit to be seen,
could not be eaten, and were entirely out of place on the exhibition
table .

The majority of the fruits appeared to be the produce of
starved or exhausted plants, and if foliage had been shown as well
as the fruit the former would, perhaps, have been somewhat of a
revelation. It is almost certain we should have seen small apologies
for leaves, some more than half scorched, others approaching
tinder. We might have expected to find hungry colonies of red
spider and thrips that had extracted all the sweetness they could
from the plants, leaving nothing for the fruits to render them
eatable ; and it may be that white fleecy masses of mealy bug
would not have been absent. It is perfectly certain that no such
bad fruits would have been produced by plants carrying stout,
clean, healthy green foliage.

Scorching, crowding and starvation ruin Melons and render the
fruits of the best varieties worthless. Under good management
the plants are kept growing till the fruit is ripe, the leaves being
neither specked nor shrivelled, but fresh, firm, and green. Inherently
good varieties are then brought out in the highest condition while
the fruits of relatively inferior sorts are made the best of, these,
let it be said, not being half so bad as the best sorts are under
negligent management or erroneous methods of culture.

Melon growing appears to have come to such a pass that it is
hard to find sufficient fruits in a class worthy of the prizes at
almost any show. It is almost becoming a surprise, as it certainly
is a treat, to find three Melons out of twenty of really first class
quality, fleshy, juicy, and refreshing, with a delightful aroma. Is
the Melon being spoiled by searchings for improvement and the
production of “Heroes” to which some hybridizer hopes to im¬
mortalise his name ? or is the cultivation— as in the case of Peaches
on walls in scores of gardens — becoming a “ lost art?” There is
something wrong, radically and glaringly wrong, about this Melon
question, but whether the fault is to be traced to that ubiquitous

Augait 17, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

141

rogue the “weather,” to loose methods of culture, or to mongrel
varieties, remains to be discovered and admitted.

So generally low has the average quality of Melons fallen that
I think I may challenge any person whose duty it has been to
taste, say, a hundred Melons this year for the purpose of awarding
prizes, if he can say that he has found ten out of that number
worth taking home as a treat to his friends ? This was not always
so. Melons were even better in the old “ dung bed ” days than
many are now from modern structures. I mean the fruits as
represented at exhibitions, for we may hope that high-class Melons
are grown which do not find their way to shows. With those we
have nothing to do ; but exhibited Melons are, for the time being,
public property, and sent to be criticised. Under this, in the bulk,
they fail. Few, indeed, are really good, some are moderate, and
many bad— -absolutely bad, and no other word can truthfully
express their condition. What are they grown for ? To what is
this great degeneration to be attributed ? — The Other Judge.

THE EARLY HISTORY OF THE PANSY.

When Mr. James Simkins determined to bring out his Pansy
book for the encouragement of amateur cultivators, he asked me
to write a history of the florists’ Pansy from its earliest stage of
improvement from the wild Pansy of the field. I did so, to the
best of my ability, in the first edition of the work, published in
1889, giving coloured illustrations of some of our first Pansies of
more than half a century since. I also wished to place on record
the fact that Mr. Thompson, then gardener to Lord Gambler,
Iver, near Uxbridge, was the first to take the Pansy in band, at the
instigation of his employer and his daughter, who took to their
gardener some plants of the wild Pansy found growing in the
fields on the estate.

In a letter from a very able and esteemed correspondent of the
Journal received by me, he refers to a conversation betwixt
himself and Mr. Sweet, also one of your contributors, to the effect
that Mr. Sweet has had conversations with old florists about
Kilbarchan as to Pansies being grown in that locality as early as
1812 or 1813, and that the improvement in the Pansy might have
been carried on simultaneously in England and Scotland. The date
when Mr. Thompson first took the wild Pansy in hand was 1813
or 1814, and those who wish for the information I gave as to its
earliest history can find it by referring back to Mr. Simkins’s
Pansy book^ and for a history of the Fancy Pansy to the Journal
'?/' Horticulture for July 26th, 1883, written by me.

In order to try and find out if our Scottish florists really took
the Pansy in hand at the time Thompson did, I have searched
through volumes of Harrison’s “ Floricultural Cabinet ” from the
first volume (1833), and others up to 1840, and although florists’
flowers were thoroughly discussed and their treatment and culture
given through the “ Cabinet,” I cannot anywhere find any informa¬
tion as to any Scottish florists having taken them in hand at that
early period, or any record of any Scottish-raised varieties.

In the volume for 1833 (December number) coloured illustra¬
tions are given of the following Heartsease — viz., Sky Blue and
Yellow, in form and size that of a small Viola; Allen’s Queen
Adelaide, and Appleby’s William IV., in which there is the first
approach to a “ belting ” or border on the edge of the three lower
petals, but of very indifferent form and with a rayed centre. In
the November number of the 1833 volume there is also a coloured
plate showing Maid of Athens, Prince George (an exact counter¬
part of Violas Vernon Lee and Rob Roy), and Thompson’s
Favourite, a very novel flower, about as well shaped as Viola cor-
nuta and but a trifle larger. Coloured illustrations of these are
given in Simkins’ book. In this volume there is a list of seventy-
six varieties of Pansies in cultivation, the raisers’ names so far as
given being English florists — Allen, Bryce, Brown of Slough,
Bunny of Stratford, Wheeler of Warminster, and Wilmer of
Sunbury. Their places of abode are not given, but as I knew all
personally in my early days I am able to give their places of
business. In this list is to be found Lord Gambier, Thompson’s
Favourite, already alluded to, and others of Thompson’s raising.

In the August number, 1834, there are also coloured plates of
Lucy and Sir Walter Scott, the latter a yellow ground flower with
dark top petals, with a fraction of belting in each lower petal, and
a small blotch on each side of the eye in the side petals, the bottom
petal being rayed up to this period. The flower is always alluded
to as the Heartsease in the Floricultural Cabinet, but in the volume
for 1835 I find the word Pansy first used. This was even then an
old name, as Shakespeare makes Ophelia say in her mad scene,

“ There’s Pansies, that’s for thoughts,” and it is well known that the
word is derived from the French Pens4e or thought. In this
volume are coloured plates of Iver Beauty, golden yellow with a
distinct wire edging of coerulean blue, a flower about the size of

Violetta, the parent of the miniatums, and could it be obtained
now would send my esteemed friend William Cuthbertson, of
Dobbie & Co., into the regions of delight as an immense acquisition
to our Fancy Violas, for I begin to think we shall soon have to
make classes for them, seifs, fancies, miniatums, and hybrid
Pansies, the latter of the Pansy type, but I am not going into that
subject now.

In the 1835 volume there are also coloured illustrations of
Royal Crimson, yellow with a margin or belting in the lower
petals, with the top petals of brownish crimson, a distinct advance
towards our belted show Pansies. Iver Beauty was in all proba¬
bility one of Thompson’s raising. In the same vol., June number,
Rollison’s Princess Victoria and Marsden’s King William are
figured, but still of the Viola form and without blotch.

In the July number, vol. for 1836, an illustration is given of
Barratt’s Seedling, straw ground colour, with a regular belting
and dark top petals, but with a rayed centre, and a nearer approach
to our modern show Pansy. Other seedlings figured there also
showed improved form with the more distinctive character of the
modern show Pansy, and from this time the Pansy went ahead in
improved form and size. Mr. Barratt was a well known nurseryman
at Wakefield, Yorkshire. He took the Pansy in hand as well as
the Dahlia, and his grand old Dahlia Vicar of Wakefield will be
remembered by many an old florist.

In June and July, vol. for 1837, eight seedlings raised by the
editor, Mr. Harrison, then the proprietor of the Downham Nurseries,
Norfolk, are figured, and in some of these this improved form is
maintained ; but all with one exception with rayed centres — that
is, without the defined blotch of dark colour surrounding the eye —
and in that instance the blotch was of very primitive form.

I may add here that in March, 1836, in reply to a correspondent
for a list of forty best sorts, Mr. Mountjoy, a celebrated florist at
that time near Ealing, London, gave a list which contained twenty-
four of his own raising, for he was then celebrated for Pansies, ten
of Thompson’s raising, and the remainder by other raisers, but not
one that I can trace as oc Scottish origin.

In the vol. for 1837, in the May No., a brief review is given of
“ A History and Description of the Pansies Known at that Time,”
but unfortunately their history is not given in the review in
question, but the reviewer stated that at that period there were
more than 500 varieties in cultivation ; so then as now, far too
many must have been sent out as so-called decided improvements.

In the volume for 1840 there is a coloured illustration of
Silverlock’s Black Knight, a very dark self, which made an immense
reputation, for the flower was the first greatly improved dark
self known in its fine form, medium size, smoothness and substance.
I was at that time in my teens, employed in a nursery in the South
of England where we grew every variety of florists’ flowers of any
note, and I can readily hark back to many of the old Pansies
I have enumerated, Silverlock’s Black Knight has very often
since, and up to the present time, been referred to by me as a
grand acquisition in those days. It was introduced by Mr. Silver-
lock of Chichester, an old and esteemed nurseryman and florist,,
and the business is still in existence.

The first double Pansy is referred to in this volume, ?.nd was
raised by an amateur, but in old Parkinson’s “Paradisus Terres-
tris,” published in 1629, a double Heartsease is mentioned. In
Miller’s “ Gardeners’ Dictionary,” 1764, it is stated that “ Hearts¬
ease or Pansies grow naturally in some parts of the northern
counties of England, but are generally cultivated in gardens about
London.”

To those who are not well acquainted with Pansies it will be
as well to mention that the term “ Show ” Pansies applies to our
old varieties, consisting of white, yellow, or dark seifs of circular
form, or to flowers with a white or yellow body or ground colour
with dark top petals, a distinct margin or belting in the three
lower petals, with a dense well defined blotch about the eye.
Fancy Pansies, or those of miscellaneous colours not conforming to
the conditions recognised in the old “Show” varieties, but both
strains are used for exhibition purposes. — Willia.w Dean,
Birmingham.

CROWDED FRUIT TREES.

Symmetrical trees, models in shape, are useless unless they’
produce fine fruit. We are only too familiar with well-shaped
trees that are a crowded mass, with not a fruit spur in the centre
worthy of the name ; they are pruned annually after a fashion,
but they might as well be clipped-in with the shears. Trees of
whatever description they may be, w'hether Pears, Apples, or
Plums, should have the branches so disposed that light and air can
have free -access to every leaf. This is the secret of thorough
development, and by no other means can the most satisfactory
results be obtained. This is the time to thin out to the desired

112

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ l.ugust 17, 1893

extent all overcrowded trees. Whether they are pyramids or
bushes the branches should radiate from the stem at distances of
not less than 18 inches. This is no waste of space, but on the
contrary a gain of fruit, where a common-sense system of pruning
is followed.

I have no objection to the fruit spurs advancing somewhat
farther than some cultivators allow, provided these spurs are
judiciously thinned. No harm is done by leaving stubby fruiting
shoots from 6 to 9 inches long, if they are shortened after
the fruit has been gathered. This style of pruning must be
followed if we are to have good crops of such Apples as Irish
Peach and Warner’s King, which invariably produce bold flowers
and fine fruit on those growths ; and leaving them will not crowd
the trees if the main branches are sufficiently far apart. The chief
guide in this matter should be the size to which the foliage attains
when, as now, it is fully developed. Warner’s King, Betty Geeson,
Small’s Admirable, and Hanwell Souring (a valuable Apple on the
English Paradise stock) make large leaves, and should have more
room between their branches than King of the Pippins, Irish
Peach, and Cox’s Orange Pippin. Exactly the same rule applies
to Pears, Cherries, and Plume. The branches of Pitmaston Duchess
Pear need more space than those of Winter Nelis ; Oullins Golden
Gage needs more room than Coe’s Golden Drop, and the Bigarreau
race than the Duke Cherries.

All who grasp Sie importance of having the branches of fruit
trees a good distance asunder will not allow shoots that extend to
be cut out afterwards. This is right, for allowing them to grow
to be cut away perhaps two or three years later is so much
wasted energy. Fruit trees are often ruined through being allowed
to form a strong central lead, depriving other branches of support.
If we are to grow fine fruit the heads of standard or bush trees
must be kept open, first by the removal of the centre, and then an
equal distribution of the branches, so that the lower will have an
equal chance with those that naturally assume a more upright
position. Small growths and cross branches must be kept out of
the trees, so that light and air can reach every part to develop
the buds and colour the fruit.

If we glance at small fruit bushes we find too many of them in
a deplorable condition. Gooseberries are allowed to form a thicket
near the top, and there is not the slightest chance for fruit spurs to
form beneath them. They have been spoiled by overcrowding
from youth upwards. By a simple process of allowing main
branches to extend a foot or so apart, shortening lateral growths
upon them in summer, and cutting those back to two eyes in
winter, the branches become clothed with spurs which yield fine
fruit abundantly. Similar remarks apply to Red and White
Currants. A dozen main branches are ample for producing
magnificent bushes, these branches being formed by cutting back
the shoots of young trees when planted, and again the second
season. After this they may extend, and by summer and winter
pruning will become wreathed with fruit. Black Currants are
also, as a rule, much too crowded. Old fruiting wood should be
cut out now to admit light and air freely to the young and sturdy
growths to render them fruitful in character. Raspberries also
suffer through a thicket of growths. The canes that have fruited
should be removed forthwith, also the young growths thinned and
secured against breakage.

Not only are fruit trees growing in the open crowded with wood,
but most of those grown against walls have far too many branches
or shoots. To allow the leaves to hang one over another is wrong,
as they are then either weakened or spoiled, and so must the
trees be in no very long time. Healthy fruitful trees and
bushes cannot be produced by defective leafage, and where over¬
crowding is apparent the evil should be rectified at once. —
Wm. Bakdnby.

SULPHATE OF COPPER AND PARIS GREEN

MIXTURES AS FUNGICIDES AND INSECTICIDES.

Within the recollection of what may be termed experienced
cultivators, say of half a century’s practice in the agri -horticultural
field, the maladies incidental to cultivated plants have increased
correspondingly with the enlarged cultures, and proportionate to
the spread of commerce — the interchange of seeds, cuttings, and
plants between all the countries of the world. Blights, moulds,
and rusts are rifer ; beetles, moths, and flies have become more
numerous, their grubs and caterpillars increasedly vexatious to
field and garden crops.

Fifty years ago the Potato disease, caused by the fungus
(Phytophthora infestans), was unknown as such in this country,
the French and German vineyards had not been materially
plagued by Vine mildew (Oi'dium Tuckeri), and brown rot
(Peronospora viticola) did not greatly devastate European vine¬

yards before 1878. Kent was not alarmed by the fungus — the
Hop mildew (Sphcerotheca Castagnei) — before 1843. The Larch
fungus (Peziza Willkommi) only became serious on Larches in
Great Britain in 1875. Apple scab, caused by the fungus
(Cladosporium or Fusicladium dendriticum) and scab, with
cracking in Pears, caused by another form of the fungus (C. or
F. d. pyrinum), was not noticed as remarkably destructive to the
Apple and Pear crops in this country before 1844. The Onion
mildew (Peronospora Schleideniana) has only been troublesome to
market gardeners and seed growers within the last few years.
This plague is believed to have been introduced to the Canary
Isles from Bermuda, and found its way to this country by the
interchange befere alluded to. The “smut” of Wheat (Ustilago
segetum) and “ bunt ” (Tilletia Caries) have not increased for the
obvious reason that measures have been taken to prevent their
recurrence by steeping the seed in sulphate of copper solutions.
This is particularly worthy of the attention of cultivators.

With regard to insects, their increased prevalence is notable.
It is right, however, to mention that Mr. T. A. Knight expressed
his opinion at the beginning of the century, that insect infestations
were oftener the cause of the failure of the fruit crops than were
damage from spring frosts. Nevertheless, the caterpillars of the
winter moth (Cheimatobia brumata) and other moths have
defoliated fruit trees in many places within the last ten years
where they were not particularly destructive before. The Hop
aphis (Aphis or Phorodon humuli) within the half century has
grown in blight to Hops so as to reduce the crop in some years
from an average of 7 cwt. to 2 cwt. per acre, but the Hop growers
abandoned the predisposed cause — the atmospheiic rigmarole, and
placed their hopes in science and energy, by which they have or
may overcome the enemy. The Turnip fly (Haltica or Phyllotreta
nemorum) “ eats up ” the Turnip crops in some seasons. Miss
Ormerod calculating the direct loss caused by this pest in 1881 at
more than half a million of money. Gooseberry and Currant
sawfly (Nematus ribesi) larvae, aided by the caterpillars of the
magpie moth (Abraxas grossulariata), have maintained their
infestations with recurrent virulency. Mustard beetles, the “ Black
Jack ” (Phaedon betulae) had the best of in the Cambridgeshire
and Lincolnshire Mustard fields in 1884, and often since. Cob
Nut and Filbert trees have been visited in Kent by the larvae of
the March moth (Anisopteryx aescularia), this pest delighting in
green Gooseberries and the tender fruits of Apple, Pear, and Plum
trees. But the greatest plague of all that I have seen in the half
century was that of the Oak leaf roller moth (Tortrix viridina)
larvae in 1888, when they defoliated most of the Oak trees in a
wood of 100 acres, and left the garden and orchard fruitless.
Rooks were the only benefactors by the invasion, but the cry in
1892 was “ still they come ” — the multitudinous hosts of caterpillars
and in their wake the rooks.

What have the gardeners and farmers of this country done to
prevent and repel fungal and insectal invasions ? Ever since I can
remember the market gardeners of this country collected and
strewed road dust on their caterpillar-infested Gooseberry and
Currant bushes. That is the foundation of the copper remedies —
it is mentioned by Herodotus, b.c. 484, as a practice of the
Egyptians, but none of our learned scientists took up the subject
until our brother cultivators across the Channel — the French
vineyardists— used road dust mixed with verdigris to choke off
marauders both fungal and insectal. Sulphur proved efficacious
against mildew — our recipes for bisulphide of calcium, also
sulphide of potassium remedies are due to the French, yet the
advent of Peronospora viticola in 1878 caused the French savants
to direct their attention to the use of sulphate of copper mixed
with road dust, the effect upon the Vines thus treated being
more or less satisfactory, and it led to the trial of sulphate of
copper in solution as a remedy. M. Prillieux, in 1886, reported
to the Societe Nationale d’ Agriculture de France that “the
numerous experiments made that year demonstrated beyond doubt
the efficacy of salts of copper in combating the Peronospora of the
Vine.” M. Prillieux also intimated in 1886 that two or three
experiments were made on Potatoes attacked by the Potato mildew
(Phytophthora infestans), the results in consequence of the un¬
favourable conditions not being decisive, but likely to prove
effectual. M. Millordet and M. Gayon also pursued the copper
remedy with considerable energy, those experts and M. Schloesing
having shown that the conidia (the spores) of the Vine mildew did
not germinate on leaves treated with a weak sulphate of copper
solution, also that the spores of the Peronospora viticola could not
or did not grow on the under sides of Vine leaves treated on their
upper surface with sulphate of copper. Experiments that were
carried out in various parts of France upon M. Prillieux’s recom¬
mendation have — especially those of M. Aime Girard in 1888, 1889,
and 1890 — proved conclusively that sulphate of copper is as
effectual against the Potato mildew as against the brown rot of

August 17, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

143

the Vine. Similar experiments carried out in Belgium, in America,
and at the Cape of Good Hope have, the reports say, been
“ favourable without exception.’'

In 1892 the Board of Agriculture published a “ Report on
Recent Experiments in Checking Potato Disease in the United
Kingdom and Abroad,” which has been reviewed favourably in the
“ Home Farm ” part of the Journal of Horticulture. In this
“ Report” there is considerable difference in the results, some being
highly satisfactory, and others “ worse than the disease ” on account
of the damage to the crop and consequent depreciated yield. That
is a point we will consider presently, but I wish to impress the fact
on those anxious to save their crops from fungal attacks that there
is no necessity to smother the leaves of the plants by coating them
on their under sides with sulphate of copper. The spores of the
Potato fungus enter the Potato leaves mainly by the stomates,
therefore it has been concluded that the copper should be mainly
placed there. This is a mistake, for M. Schloesing’s experiments
show that the copper is retained by the cuticle of the leaves, and
its retention by the upper surface of the leaves is sufficient to
prevent the fungus from establishing itself upon the under sides,
where it first invades the Potato plant, and finally descends to
the tubers. This is important, because it renders applications
made after the disease has been established effective in staying
the attack and considerably increasing the crop by preserving
the vigour of the plants to a much later period than would be the
case were they not treated. Copper, therefore, is a preventive and
curative agent in the treatment of the Potato disease.

The reason why some mixtures of copper sulphate have
proved innocuous to the foliage of Potatoes, whilst similar have done
it considerable injury, is solely due to a proper or improper mixture
being employed. If the mixture contains no free copper, and is not
too strong, it will not do any harm whatever to the tenderest foliage,
but if it comprise the least moiety of free copper it will blacken
every leaf it is sprayed upon in degree corresponding to the amount.
Chemists are remiss in not telling us all about this ; perhaps they
think everybody knows as much as they do, or that only they have
the right to know anything of the why and wherefore. Every
schoolboy will know all about these things shortly. A correspondent
last year noted in the Journal of Horticulture that his preparation
of Bordeaux mixture was brown in colour, which is not unlikely, as
much of the so-called sulphate of copper is largely adulterated with
iron sulphate, still he found it efficacious as a fungicide ; hence I
conclude, rightly or wrongly, that it contained next to none of
sulphate of copper, otherwise it is impossible to account for its not
laying the plants to which it were applied dead and prostrate, for
the brown colour of a copper solution is a clear indication of its
not being neutralised by the lime. Chemists have an infallible
test for the free copper in a Bordeaux mixture, namely, ferro-
cyanide of potassium, and it was first mentioned by Dr. G.
Patrigeon in the “ Journal d’Agriculture,” Prat. No. 54, page 701.
Half an ounce of ferrocyanide of potassium is dissolved in 2 or
3 ozs. of water, placed in a bottle and kept corked. It is not
poisonous, and is a solution of the commonly called “ red prussiate
of potash.” When it is desired to test the Bordeaux mixture for
free copper a few drops of this solution is added, and if the mixture
contains the least quantity of free copper it immediately gives
a brownish reaction. Such mixture is not safe to use upon
any plant, for it will blacken Potato tops, Tomato leaves, every
thing. If there be no reaction when the ferrocyanide solution
is added, the mixture or solution contains no free copper, and
is perfectly safe to apply to any plant, provided the dose is
not too strong, for another reaction sets in afterwards ; therefore,
the mixture should not be kept several days, but must be used
after it is prepared, according to the formula given, as soon as
possible.

The American Bordeaux mixture always differed from the
European in containing one-third less lime than of sulphate of
copper, whilst the majority of the latter consisted of equal propor¬
tions of sulphate of copper and lime, the per-centage being
calculated by the sulphate of copper relative to the water used.
The bouillie Bordelaise used in the experiments carried on by the
Royal Agricultural Society of England for the Board of Agricul¬
ture in 1891 consisted of 20 lbs. of sulphate of copper, 10 lbs. of
unslaked lime, and 100 gallons of water. M. Girard frequently
used a 2 per cent, bouillie — that is, 20 lbs. of sulphate of copper
and the same of lime to 100 gallons of water. M. Thienpont
thinks a 2 per cent, bouillie better than one of 4 per cent., and
strives to hit a happy medium between his and M. Girard’s 3 per
cent, recommendation by a 2^ per cent, bouillie. M. Petermann
tried a 1 per cent, mixture, and recommended a 2 per cent. one.
The United States bouillie varied from a 2 to 2| per cent, of
sulphate of copper. All have reference to the Potato disease. —
G. Abbey.

(To be continued.)

A DOUBLE MONTBRETIA.

Mr. W. Bain, gardener to Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burfoni
Lodge, Dorking, placed a novelty before the Floral Committee of the
R.H.S. on August 8th in the form of a double Montbretia crocosmaeflcra,
and its value and distinctness were recognised by a first-class certificate.
Sir Trevor had it from the Continent, but Mr. Bain is unable to give
any information as to its origin. Strictly speaking the form is semi¬
double, but the flowers are well filled, and in colour they are bright
orange yellow. This promises to be a valuable addition to a useful
class of plants. None of the Montbretias at present receives the
attention it deserves. M. Pottsi, M. crocosmaeflora, and others are

exceedingly useful from their free flowering nature, their distinct
colours, their long period of beauty, and their ease of culture. The new
variety which fig. 21 represents will serve a good purpose if it draws
wider attention to the whole genus.

CADLAND PARK.

Among the many fine estates that are situated on the shores of the
Solent Cadland Park stands out prominently. It is the seat of Andrew
Drummond, Esq., of the well-known banking firm at Charing Cross, and
is about three miles from the pretty village of Hythe, and seven miles
by water and land from Southampton. To reach the mansion anil
gardens from the southern seaport town is a matter of taste for the
visitor. Those who prefer a short but enjoyable sea trip can “ cross the
stream,” as termed by the local “salts,” by steamboat in about twenty
minutes from Southampton to Hythe, starting from the town quay,
which is within a short distance of the railway stations. On a fine

144

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 17, 1893.

summer’s day this is a pleasant ride. The other usual method of reach¬
ing Cadland from the point mentioned is by road, which constitutes
a drive of at least seventeen miles through a charming district. The
estate is a large one, perhaps the finest in that part of the country, and
has a sea frontage of thirteen miles. Bordering on the New Forest it
is only natural that the scenery is of a picturesque character ; but it is
almost impossible for anyone who has not seen it to form an adequate
idea as to its beauty. It has been my lot to visit numerous parks and
gardens from far beyond the borders to the south coast, but in no case have
better views presented themselves than on this quiet southern resort.
The house is a plainly built though substantial edifice, having been
restored in 18.37, and is situated on a hill commanding a grand outlook.
At the foot of the hill, or rather a series of hills, for the whole neigh¬
bourhood is of an undulating nature, lies the Solent, whose waters at
the time of my visit were studded with yachts ready for the regatta.
On the opposite shore stands the stately Netley Hospital, where thou¬
sands of British warriors have been invalided, and near by may be
seen Netley Castle nestling amidst a clump of trees. The Hamble Cliffs
and hills beyond complete a natural picture that can well hold its own
with any in the country.

Time has wrought changes at Cadland Park, as it does elsewhere*
and the gardens are now in charge of Mr. G. Garner, whose achieve¬
ments in the Chrysanthemum world whilst at Amberwood, near Christ¬
church, are too well known to need further reference here. This
estimable and able gardener took up his abode here in April last, a busy
season, and one generally sufficient to test the abilities of any man.
Scarcely had he become settled than the proprietor of the estate,
K. A. Drummond, Esq., died, the next heir being his eldest son, as
before mentioned. This event, of course, brought slight changes, but
the gardens being in excellent keeping are much as heretofore.
“ Fragrance in flowers and quality in fruit ” is the motto at this grand
establishment, and Mr. Garner continues to carry it out to a letter. In
the houses strict attention is paid to the smallest detail, and as is usual
in such cases, fruit of excellent quality is obtained. Peaches under
glass are remarkably well grown, and notwithstanding the exceptionally
dry season the trees are entirely free from thrips or red spider. This
will be all the more astonishing when it is recorded that but little
syringing is practised, a cool moist atmosphere obtained by constantly
damping the floors being preferred. The Peach and Apricot houses are
270 feet long, lean-to structures, and have a south-eastern aspect.
Trees are grown on the back wall and standards in the front, a path
being between the two. The standard trees are noticeable for the large
number of richly coloured fruit they carry, as well as for the healthy
appearance. Of Peaches, Eoyal George, Sea Eagle, and Hale’s Early
are favourite varieties ; and as regards Nectarines, Rivers’ Orange,
Improved Downton, Pineapple, and Spencer are most extensively
grown. Apricots are trained similarly, there being standards as well as
trees on the wall. Moorpark, Hemskirk, Large Red and Early are the
favourite varieties. To fill in vacant space between the standard trees
in these houses some plants of Sutton’s Perfection, Abundance,
Excelsior, and Favourite Tomatoes are trained, and these are carrying
heavy crops of fine fruit.

Grapes are extensively cultivated, particularly Muscats, but*
owing to injudicious treatment on some former occasion, the Vines in
one house are not in the best of health. To all appearances the Vines
are young, are planted in very deep outside and inside borders, and
the result is that shanking is prevalent to an undesirable extent. Mr.
Garner noticed this defect on taking charge last spring, and after a
summer’s trial he has decided to take out the whole of the Vines in one
house devoted to Muscats and plant fresh ones in an inside border of
smaller dimensions. By adopting this method success will undoubtedly
be ensured. The next vinery is a large one, in which Muscats and
Alicantes are planted alternately. The latter are good, the bunches
being large, and give promise of colouring well, but it has been decided
to partition the structure to grow each kind by itself. It is observable
here that a Vine of Muscat of Alexandria planted near a cold-water
cistern does not thrive nearly so well as some of its neighbours. In a
house composed of Black Hamburghs the Vines are healthy and bear
good bunches of fruit. Some of the rods, however, are rather old, and
young ones are being laid in as substitutes. The fourth vinery is also
devoted to Muscat of Alexandria. The Vines are remarkably free
from red spider and shanking, and moreover are producing a very fine
crop. The bunches are large in size and of a handsome shape, the same
applying to the berries. Cool treatment is given, air being admitted at
night, and obviously with good results. Syringing the Vines is not
practised, and despite the prevalence of red spider this season not an
insect can be seen on the leaves. If any signs of red spider were seen
early in the season the affected leaves were immediately sponged with
softsoap and water, and hence the pest has been kept at bay. In
cases where shanking has appeared t’ne Vines are induced to make all
the growth they possibly can after the first pinching. This plan,
evidently a good one. might with advantage be adopted by those who
meet with similar difficulties. Melons are splendidly grown in pits as
well as in a span-roofed house. In the latter structure the plants are
^trying on an average five good fruits each, the varieties including
Triumph, Sutton’s Al, and Amberwood Beauty, a variety raised by Mr.
Garner a few years ago. It is a handsome fruit, the result of a cross
between Hero of Lockinge and Read’s Scarlet, and ripens about a week
emier th;m the first-named variety. Cucumbers are also well grown,
Qe P an being to sow the seed where the plants are required to grow,
trawberrles are grown in pots, and about 6000 plants are standing in

sunny positions to become thoroughly ripened. Contrary to the general
rule, they are liberally supplied with liquid manure during the late
summer and autumn, none being given in the spring whilst the fruit is
ripening.

Hardy fruit forms a feature at Cadland, and at present the trees are
carrying enormous crps. Figs in the open air are as plentiful as Apples
are in some places, and the fruit ripens beautifully, A “Fig walk’’
is composed of trees planted against a wall originally, but now they
form an arbour over a walk for a distance of 60 yards or so, the
branches being supported by stakes. The trees are loaded with fruit of
a good size and excellent flavour. Peaches on the open walls were
badly blistered last spring, inasmuch as the trees are exposed to east
winds. It is therefore proposed to plant choice Pears on this wall, and
devote another more favourable to Peaches. This, if carried out, will
be a decided improvement, and will result in the production of some
fruit of the best quality. Pears on the walls are almost a failure this
year, especially old trees, but standards are laden with fruit to such an
extent that it has been necessary to support the branches. Marie
Louise and Williams’ Bon Chretien are especially heavy croppers here ;
no less than 4 bushels of fruit were picked from a medium-sized bush tree
of the latter variety. Apples are fairly heavy, and the same may be
said in regard to Plums, which are well represented on the walls. Coe’s
Golden Drop, Green Gage, Rivers’ Early, Pond’s Seedling, and Magnum
Bonum are grown amongst other varieties. Some fine Quince trees are
noticeable too, and a grand old Mulberry is producing a fine crop of
fruit.

Besides fruit, the usual complement of vegetables and flowers are
grown in the kitchen gardens, which are about 5 acres in extent and
divided into walled-in sections. These all slope towards the south-east,
and the soil being of a light nature, the drought has been severely felt
here this summer. By assiduous work and judicious management,
however, but few evil effects are now noticeable, and the crops are
thriving amazingly. Perhaps one of the most striking features in this
department is a row of Scarlet Runner Beans, which forms a division
between the kitchen garden and a portion of the pleasure grounds. This
row is 372 feet in length, and Beans have, it is stated, been grown in the
same position for half a century. The plants this year, notwithstand¬
ing the drought, have made free growth and are yielding a good crop of
pods. This success is attributed to the fact that apart from the five
cartloads of manure that were trenched into the soil in which the beans
were planted early in June, copious supplies of water have been given
when necessary. The little extra trouble thus involved, however,
brought its reward, for whilst many are complaining of a shortness of
beans, there is a plentiful supply at this establishment. Large breadths
of Broccoli, Cauliflowers, Cabbages, Sprouting Broccoli, and Kale are
grown, but no Seakale, inasmuch as abundance of this can be obtained
from the seashore a short distance away. Asparagus thrives well and
is grown on the level, the soil being as before mentioned light, and
therefore suitable for this mode of culture.

In the plant houses the same cleanliness as characterises the outside
departments may be observed, and every effort is made to keep up the
supply of decorative plants and cut flowers. Near the entrance of the
gardens, and close to the gardener’s cottage, a large span-roofed green¬
house is situated in which numerous plants are grown. The roof on one
side is covered with Jasmines, Heliotropes, Bougainvilleas, and the blue
and white Plumbagos, P. capensis alba being especially fine. All these
plants are grown similarly to Vines, being “spurred in ’’ closely during
the winter. This mode of treatment obviously suits them, for they are
laden with blossom. Cheshunt Hybrid, Niphetos, Gloire de Dijon,
Mar^chal Niel, and other Roses are trained on the opposite side, and
from these thousands of blooms are cut. Zonal Pelargoniums and
Azaleas are extensively cultivated for winter flowering, these plants
being special favourites. Orchids find a place amongst the stove plants,
and being healthy, will, no doubt, give a profusion of bloom later on.
A number of plants of Calanthe vestita, C. Veitchi, and a piece of the
beautiful Vanda teres deserves more than a passing notice. Dendrobiums,
Lmlias, Coelogynes, Cattleyas, and Odontoglossums are well represented.
Chrysanthemums will not be up to the Amberwood standard this year,
inasmuch as when the present gardener took them in hand they were
still in small pots, the stems nearly 2 feet in height, and growing on a
manure bed. The plants were cut back and repotted, and being at the
present time in a healthy condition, it is expected that a good supply of
blooms suitable for cutting will be forthcoming. Next year we shall
doubtless hear further of the Cadland Chrysanthemums, and it may not
be too much to expect to see them figuring prominently upon the
exhibition tables.

Conifers flourish luxuriantly in the grounds, and also in the exten¬
sive woods adjoining. Two remarkably fine Cedars are situated near
the front of the house, and there are a few good specimens on the lawn.
In a portion of the pleasure grounds near to the kitchen garden there is
a splendid tree of the deciduous Cypress (Taxodium distichum),
possibly the finest in the country. It is nearly 100 feet in height,
and 14 feet in circumference at 4 feet from the ground. The flower
garden proper presents a bright appearance, especially some pyramids of
Zonal Pelargoniums, which, viewed from one end, appears as a hedge of
blossom. Two beds, representing the Prince of Wales’ Feathers, are
exceedingly well done, one being filled with flowerin?, and the other
with ornamental foliage plants. Beds of sweet-scented flowers are
conspicuous, such plants as the Lemon-scented Verbena (Aloysia
citriodora), Harrison’s Musk, and scented-leaved Pelargoniums being
employed. Roses are grown in great numbers, and the same applies to

August 17, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

145

Lily of the Valley and Carnationg, the scented varieties of the last
named being preferred. A grand plant, 9 or 10 feet in height, of
Chamserops Fortune!, on the lawn, has stood the test of many winters,
and still looks well. The broad stretches of green sward are in excel¬
lent condition, and the cleanliness which pervades the whole place
reflects credit on Mr. Garner and his assistants. — C.

THE SPARROW AGAIN.

Some few weeks ago we inserted several letters from, we may
perhaps be permitted to say, sparrow friends and foes. We could not
insert all that came to hand at that time, other subjects demanding a
share of space ; but as some of the communications were too good to
waste they were placed aside till a convenient opportunity offered for
their appearance, and now we bring up arrears,

Mr. Witherspoon is fortunate in having sparrows of a specially
good variety. He should do his level best to keep the breed pure, and
make his sparrows companions and friends. He should entice them to
stop at home by growing corn in a milch state, or he will rue the day
when some of his birds go for their holiday, and bring back to their
home some of the “ scoundrel ” kind, which are plentiful over all the
horticultural earth.

I have in my garden a wire aviary, which contains, amongst other
inhabitants, a white sparrow. The boughs of a Plum tree extend over
the wirework of the aviary, and all the blossoms that fall through are
eagerly snapped up by this sparrow. If he had his liberty I have not
the least doubt but what he would do the same as Mr. Kaillem’s
sparrows, and might be shot.

Sparrows that have not previously started an establishment of their
own feed their young at first on aphides, flies, and caterpillars ; but
they soon degenerate, and find that their young are quite as easily
reared on the soft food provided for young chickens, and with the
exception of now and again chasing a white butterfly, give up all the
trouble and difficulty of collecting insects of any kind.

On the outskirts of this town (Lewes), and the first year I have ever
known such a thing to occur, the jackdaws stripped the Cherry trees of
all the fruit ; in other years the starling has been the guilty party, and
the rooks ate the Green Peas out of the pods in a wholesale way. —
J. H. Verrall.

The sparrow is becoming lower in my estimation daily. The rascals
were lately caught ruining a row of Sweet Peas by pulling off the
flowers. On mentioning this to the owner of the Peas he said, “ Yes ;
they also kill my bees and eat them.”

We have had many instances of the injury done by them in this
country. Let us have a glimpse over the report of the American
Ornithologist to the Department of Agriculture. This is his opinion : —

“ The English sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a hardy, prolific, and
aggressive bird, possessed of much intelligence and more than ordinary
cunning. It is domestic and gregarious in habit, and takes advantage
of the protection afforded by the proximity to man, thus escaping
nearly all the enemies which check the abundance of our native birds.
Its fecundity is amazing ; it hatches from five to six broods in a season,
with from four to six young in a brood. We take the sparrow as an
enemy.

“1. The sparrow as an enemy of our native birds.

“ Of all the native birds which habitually make their homes near the
abodes of man, the martin is the only species which is able to hold its
own against the sparrows ; and numerous instances are on record where
sven the martin has been beaten and forced to abandon its former
nesting place by these belligerent aliens, some of the martins having
their eyes picked out. Dr. B. Harry Warren writes : — ‘ Our native
birds have rapidly and steadily diminished in numbers since the
sparrow came. Former plentiful residents are rare. Even transient
visitants and migrants have been so pressed by the usurper that they
now seem to avoid certain parts as plague-stricken spots.’

“ 2. The sparrow as an enemy to gardeners and fruit growers.

“ In addition to the indirect injury thus brought about by depriving
our gardens and orchards of the protection afforded them by our
insectivorous birds, the sparrow causes a positive and direct loss to our
agricultural industries, amounting in the aggregate to not less than
several millions of dollars per annum. The ravages done by the sparrow
affect almost every crop produced by the farmer, fruit grower, and
gardener, and extend over the entire year. Indeed, it is safe to say that
ii now exerts a more marked effect upon the agricultural interest of
America than any other species of birds, and its unprecedented increase
and spread, taken in connection with the extent of its ravages in certain
districts, may be regarded with grave apprehension. In the early spring
it prevents the growth of a vast number of fruit by eating the germ from
the fruit-buds of trees and bushes. The Peach, Pear, Plum, Cherry,
Apple, Apricot, and Currant suffer most. The birds eat Green Peas as
fast as they grow. They peck Apples, Peaches, and Grapes, causing
them to decay upon the trees. Sparrows are worse than all the Apple
pests combined.

‘■3. The sparrow as an enemy to Grape culture.

“ The Grape industry, which is one of rapidly increasing consequences
in America, encounters in the sparrow an enemy second only to the
phylloxera and certain fungus growths. Already in some parts of the
East it has become such a scourge that Grape culture can no longer be

carried on with profit, it being necessary to enclose the ripened clusters
in paper bags to insure their protection. They have ruined the Grape
crop almost wholly where unprotected.

“ 4. The sparrow as an enemy to grain growers.

“ Annoying and injurious as the sparrow is to the fruit grower and
vegetable gardener, the loss it inflicts on the producer of cereals is even
greater. Though for its permanent residence it prefers populous
localities and places of abundant traffic and commotion, still, in
anticipation of the harvest season, it gathers in enormous flocks, and
leaving the cities and towns, moves off into the surrounding country to
feed upon the ripening grain. Its consumption and waste of corn,
Wheat, Rye, Oats, Barley, and Buckwheat in many parts of the
country is enormous. It feeds upon the kernel when it is in the soft
milky state, as well as when it has matured and hardened, and in fields
of ripe grain it scatters upon the ground even more than it consumes.
Instances have been reported where in the place of a full and fair
crop only the straw remained to be gathered.

“ 5. Failure of the sparrow as an insect destroyer.

“ The sparrow was brought to America in the belief that it was an
insectivorous bird, and with the expectation that it would devour the
caterpillars which destroy the foliage of the Elm and other shade
trees in the streets and parks. The utter futility of this hope has been
demonstrated over and over again in cities and larger towns which are
overrun with birds and caterpillars.

“ Miss Eleanor A. Ormerod, in her Ninth Report on ‘ Injurious Insects
and Common Farm Pests,’ states that the sparrows drive off swallows
and martins, thus permitting a great increase in flies and insects
destructive in the garden and orchard. Miss Ormerod cites a case in
which the destruction of the sparrow and the consequent reappearance
of swallows and martins resulted in the abolishment of the insect pest,

“ Mr. J. H. Gurney, junr., a well-known ornithologist, says : — i think,
the sparrows do enough harm to warrant everybody to destroy them.
Say one-fifth of good to four-fifths of harm is about what they do, take
the country all over, though at certain times and places they do nothing
but harm. I have striven to say what I could in their favour, being
naturally a lover of birds.

“ The destructive habits of the sparrow in Bermuda, Cuba, England,
Germany, Austria, Russia, India, and Egypt, arc too well known to
require more than passing observations. In England alone the damage
it causes has been estimated at not less than 3,850,000 dols. per annum ;
and in Australia the loss is much greater, as seen in the evidences
collected and published by the Australian Government, that in the
short space of ten days the sparrows took a ton and a half of Grapes.”

What does J. Witherspoon say about these “ clouds of witnesses ?” —
Davies Ddffryn.

At page 484 last volume, Mr. Harrison Weir seems to think I regard the
sparrow as harmless to the buds of Currants and Gooseberries. It is not
the case. I am perfectly cognisant of the mischief they do in that
respect ; but although I have not observed them destroy Croci, I do not
dispute the statements of others on the point. Mr. Harrison Weir
doubts if sparrows or other birds will “ eat various kinds of caterpillars.”
Here they eat the much-detested Gooseberry caterpillar, which few
birds touch, as well as the leaf rollers and other sorts. If I read and
interpret his article correctly in regard to the feeding of birds, he agrees
with me on a very important point in the discussion. I know of many
of the good and bad habits of the sparrow. My object in taking up the
subject was to learn from others whether the good did not counter¬
balance the evil he is guilty of. — W. J. B.

Man as the lord of creation was told to replenish the earth and
subdue it, also to have dominion amongst other things over the fowls
of the air. If we remember those two words “replenish” and “subdue,”
we shall find in them authority to remove whatever may stand in the
way of man’s progress in the march of civilisation, including sparrows.
Fifty years ago there were more birds of prey than now to keep them in
Subjection. — William Smith,

PLATYCODON OR CAMPANULA.

The note by “ A. D.” in the Journal of Horticulture of August 3rd,
page 102, on these plants, and the excellent illustration on page 103-,
under the name of Campanula grandiflora Mariesi, lends emphasis to
the remark of your correspondent, “ Not very appreciable, if indeed
is there any distinction between the Platycodons and Campanula
grandiflora and its varieties. Possibly the distinction is found only in
name, and if there be none, then the diverse appellations are
misleading.”

P. grandiflorum and C. grandiflora are synonymous, and much
confusion is caused by the use of both names. Alphonse de_ Candolle
is the authority for the genus Platycodon, the name of which is derived
from broad, and kodon, a bell, on account of the shape of the

flowers. I am not acquainted with the reasons which induced Do
Candolle to separate the Platycodons from the Campanulas ; but the
most distinctive feature from the garden point of view is the inflated
appearance and flattened top (I mean flat relatively to the other
Campanulas) of the Platycodons. This has given rise to the popular
name of “ Balloon Flower.” The only advantage from a flower grower’s
standpoint of a separation of the plants is that it is difficult to persuadi?

143

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ August ir, 1893.

the public that Campanula grandia and C. graudiflora are distinct plants
in every way.

Referring to C. grandiflora Mariesi, it may be of interest to add that
this beautiful variety was introduced by Mr. Maries, a brother of the
nurseryman of that name at Lytham in Lancashire ; and that a pure
white form identical with it except in colour has been raised in Italy,
and was offered for sale this year. I am not aware, however, that it
has been offered by any of our British nurserymen, A white form
should be of much value and beauty, and it is to be hoped that it will
not be long absent from our gardens. — S. Aenott.

[Mr. E. Molyneux refers to a pure white form of Japanese, not
Italian origin, on page 127, but describes the plant as growing nearly
2 feet high. Mr. George Paul’s plant was quite dwarf, about 6 inches
in height.]

gardens are certain to take place, for many of the houses are very old
fashioned, and there will be a much heavier demand in consequence of
the larger family to provide for. Mr. Harrison is not only a thorough
practitioner, but a good botanist, also an authority on British plants, and
he rendered my visit to Knowsley both pleasurable and instructive. —
R. P. R.

KNOWSLEY HALL.

Rnowsley Hall, the principal seat of Lord Derby, is situated about
six miles from Liverpool. The beautiful park is well wooded, and is
very extensive. From an architectural point of view the mansion calls
for very little comment. It is very plain, with the exception of a
portion which has lately been restored. Of the garden, Mr. Harrison,
the head gardener, stated that it was in no sense a show place ; but
a hurried run through some time ago very soon made me attach little
importance to my courteous guide’s remark, for there was much that
would have done credit to any exhibition table, even though such a
large demand is made upon the garden’s resources. Excellent shelter is
provided by splendid plantations of trees ; and even if this did not
p ove sufficient, the garden is entirely walled in, so that cutting
winds are quite unknown. The walls are of red bricks, and everywhere
filled with the choicest of Cherries, Pears, Apricots, and Plums, which
a e carefully trained and give a good return for the skilled labour
b3stowed on them, judging by the splendid crops.

The first house entered was a lean-to vinery newly planted, the Vines
showing every promise of building up stout canes. Then we passed
through a large Peach house, from which a good crop had been gathered,
■on to the Alicante house where some splendid bunches were colouring
very well. We next entered the Black Hamburgh house, from which
part of the crop had been gathered ; but there was sufficient evidence
in the bunches remaining to show what excellent well coloured
bunches the house had contained. The Muscat house, which is in two
divisions, contained what I unhesitatingly say, as finely finished and as
even bunches as anyone could wish to see, and not a trace of shanking
was noticeable. Another large house planted with Alicantes, Lady
Djwne’s, and Trebbiano presented a grand sight, not only for the heavy
crops the Vines were carrying, but for the extra quality of both bunch
and berry. These Vines had for the greater portion been layered, a
system of which Mr. Harrison is much in favour.

The Plum house was next entered. Some trees are in large pots,
and others planted out, and in each case they were carrying a good
crop of fruit. What struck me most was the healthy foliage, and, what
is not often seen, quite free from any curl in the leaf. No wonder that
good crops result from such excellent management. These Plums fruit
year after year, and seem likely to yet do many years’ service. The
varieties most grown are Kirke’s, Jefferson, Coe’s Golden Drop, Reine
Claude, Victoria, Prince of Wales, Ickworth Imp^ratrice.and MLachlan’s
■Gage, the latter being highly prized. Peaches and Nectarines carrying
heavy crops are grown on the back wall of the Plum house. The Fig
trees were also abundantly cropped, being the leading varieties— Negro
Largo, Brown Turkey, and White Marseilles. The same remark as to a
-crop will also answer for the Cherry house ; 3500 Strawberries are
grown in pots, and they were looking their best. As an early variety
John Ruskin had been tried, but was not very satisfactory. Waterloo
for late work is grand, and there are very few places where it is grown
sj well as at Knovi'sley. The plants are layered in their fruiting pots,
and are equal in every way to those which are previously layered in
small pots.

A greenhouse and stove were beautifully furnished with a choice
collection of flowering and foliage plants in the best of health. In
the cool Orchid house the plants were in admirable condition, and
Asparagus deflexus planted alternately with A. plumosus nanus, and
covering the back wall, produced a chaste effect. One special feature
ds the culture of the Amaryllis, and one might go many miles before
meeting with such a collection as is seen at Knowsley. They number
over seventy varieties, hundreds of plants, and of different ages. They
have been raised by Mr. Harrison, the result of crossings between Messrs.
Williams and Veitch s best varieties. Tomatoes and Melons are well
grown. Knowsley Favourite is a popular Melon, and a good one
judging from the handsome fruits the plants were carrying. A number
of Solanums, with some excellent Poinsettias and Centropogon Lucy-
anum, and other winter flowering plants, were looking healthy. A large
new conservatory, built entirely of teak wood, is nearing completion,
and will prove of great service in accommodating the large Palms which
are so much needed, and which were in the old structure completely
cramped for want of head room.

Outside, the Stock Princess Alice, a pure white variety and much
superior to the old variety, was a picture in itself, and there is certain
to be a great future for it. Vegetables of every description are grown
m 'he best manner, and the fruit room was a model of what such a
structure ought to be. At the Hall business is getting settled down
aj;am since the new Earl’s return from Canada, Improvements in the 1

National Rose Society.

The “ manifesto,” as Mr. Grahame humourously calls the explana¬
tory note recently issued by the Secretaries of the N.R,S., was, it is
scarcely necessary to say, in no way intended as a “ counterblast ” or
" jeu d' esprit." It is really wonderful what a number of diverse and
interesting titles such a harmless production can have called forth. It
simply contained two statements necessary to the understanding of his
circular and which should by rights have been mentioned in it, Mr.
Grahame accuses the Secretaries of being dilatory ; he, however, forgets
that his circular only reached them after the middle of the week, and
that the “ manifesto ” in question appeared in the Journal of Horti¬
culture of the next, and that consequently no earlier answer to it was
possible. — E. M., Berlihamsted.

Ernest Metz.

Rose growers generally will do well to note and act upon the valuable
hint of the very high authority of Mr. Benjamin R. Cant re Ernest Metz,
He might have gone farther back than the last six years for so good a
Tea Rose, As a flower it is capable of being as splendid as any Tea
grown, whilst the constitution and strong free growth are considerably
better than any of them that have as grand flowers. It is even better
out of doors than under glass. I have grown it both ways in numbers
every year since it was first sent out. — S. S.

Rose Jottings.

To strengthen Mr. H. Dunkin’s note on striking Tea Rose cuttings I
may mention that last autumn I cut off the top of a Souvenir d’un Ami
in a pot, and as the portion cut off was straight and had the label
attached to it, I stuck it in at the side of the pot, no further care being
taken of it, it rooted and has bloomed several times.

Like Mr. B. R. Cant I was surprised at our friend “ D,, Deal's ” rather
disparaging note on Ernest Metz. I humbly second Mr. B. R. Cant’s
opinion of its excellence. As I write a lovely bloom is near me, and it
runs a chance of equalling in my esteem both Catherine Mermet and
her daughter The Bride. What can one say more ? If Mr. B . R. Cant
had in his mind the recent election, it seemed to me, viewing it
perhaps somewhat critically, rather misleading. I cannot but think
these three Roses would be nearly equal — in fact like the Irishman, who,
when asked if he was badly off, replied that if there was another
person in the world worse off than himself they must be “ about aiquil.”
It will be hard, I fancy, to separate these three Roses in a Tea Rose
election another year, and Mr. B. R. Cant’s “ certificate of merit ” is, in
my view, most worthily bestowed. Whether Waban will dispute the
“ pride of place ” with the trio remains for the future to settle, but it
promises well. _

Did the last Rose that graced Mr. D. R. Williamson’s study table
leave him a thorny memento ? In my innocence I have always thought
that par excellence the queen of flowers gave us the most lengthy
return for benefits bestowed. Now Mr. Williamson, writing of the
Viola, says, “ I hope my enthusiasm has not carried me away ; but, in
the special direction of durability, can as much be asserted of any other
flower ? ” and then he goes on to compare Roses, and talks of “ their ”
seasons being of ” short duration.” Granted that the duration of beauty
in each separate bloom, as he remarks, is “ marvellously short lived,”
still in some Tea blooms it has lasted suflBciently long to allow of
exhibition at three consecutive shows. I presume, however, that Mr.
Williamson means that the duration of the blooming period is short ;
but surely we Rose maniacs, if you will, are not in error when we
assert that, given favourable conditions, the duration of bloom with our
favourites is scarcely equalled by any other flower. With the help of
glass it is possible to have Tea blooms in spite of wintry blasts or mantle
of snow, and even on some of the highest land in Somersetshire I have
picked buds of Safrano in February in the open in a warm corner ;
and once, an exceptional winter certainly, I picked a bunch of Gloire
de Dijon buds, some beautifully formed, on New Year’s Day, on a wall
facing the north 1 Take our ordinary seasons out of doors and some of
our Roses begin to give us stray blooms in April, and continue in some
variety to the end of October and perhaps even later. This is fairly
constant blooming. I agree heartily with Mr. A. Hill Gray and say
the true perpetuals are the Teas.

Compliiuents to “ E. K., Dublin," we do not intend to be shut out.
Let him take care we don’t scratch him, and a Chrysanthemum cannot
retaliate. — Y. B. A. Z.

Augujt 17, 1S93. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

147

Events of the Week. — The coming week will not be a par¬
ticularly busy one for metropolitan horticulturists. On Friday and
Saturday, August 18th and 19th, the National Co-operative Festival will
be held at the Crystal Palace, and on Wednesday and Thursday, August
23rd and 21:th, there will be an exhibition of flowers and fruit at the
Gardening and Forestry Exhibition. The Devon and Exeter Horti¬
cultural Society’s Show will be held on Friday, August 18th. On
Vfednesday, August 23rd, the Shrewsbury Floral Fete and the Harpenden
Horticultural Society’s Show will be held, and on Thursday, August
24th, is the Basingstoke Show, and on August 24th and 25th the annual
Show at Weymouth will be held.

- The Weather in London. — For several days the weather

has been oppressively hot, the temperature ranging between 80° and 90°,
while on several nights it has not fallen below 70°. The heat appears
to have been more enervating than at any previous time during a
memorably hot year.

- A Well-won Honour — The Queen has conferred the honour

of knighthood upon Dr. Joseph Henry Gilbert, F.R.S., who has been
associated for more than fifty years with Sir J. B. Lawes in the agri¬
cultural experiments conducted at Kothamsted.

- Gardening Appointments. — Mr. William Dancer succeeds

Mr. C. Smith as head gardener to Major A. C. Little, Rystan House,
Tetbury, Gloucestershire. Mr. C. Boatwright, gardener to the late Mr.
E. Coveil, Beckenham Place, has been appointed gardener to J. L. Buck-
nell. Esq., Langley Court, Beckenham.

- Who Planted the Hampton Court Vine? — A statement

having appeared in the “Standard” that the old Vine at Hampton
Court was planted in 1763 by Lancelot Brown (otherwise known
as “ Capability ”), a Hampstead correspondent thus writes : — “ I
only know that I have always heard my late father say that the
great Vine at Hampton Court was planted by an ancestor of his
whose name was Robinson, and who most certainly was at Hampton
Court, and that George III. presented him on the occasion with a
snuff-box, which said box my father always treasured, and which
I have and value. It is tortoiseshell, inlaid with silver, and very pretty.
Oddly enough, it is only about three weeks since I was speaking to a
cousin about the great Vine, and I said, ‘ Well, you know an ancestor
of ours, a Mr. Robinson, planted that Vine, and I have the snuff-box
that George HI. gave him when he planted it.’ The reply was, ‘Yes,
I have always understood from my father (he was own cousin to my
father, and one of his names was Robinson) that such was the case,’ and
the remark was made that I ought to have the fact engraved on the
box.” From remarks in another column it will be seen that the grand¬
fathers of some half-dozen persons are claimed as the planters of the
Silwood Vine. We have seen it stated that an ancestor of Mr. Thomas
Laxton planted the Hampton Court Vine.

- Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge Gardeners’ Asso¬
ciation. — The members of this Society, conducted by Mr. D. Cornwell,
paid a visit to Messrs. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, on Wednesday,
Aug. 9th. The company, numbering upwards of sixty, were conducted
over the nursery, and many remarks of a laudatory character were let
fall respecting the magnificence of the Begonias, the brightness and
diversity of colouring displayed amongst the Zonal Pelargoniums, the
curios in the houses devoted to Cactaceous plants, the large and beauti¬
ful collection of the now almost forgotten Verbena, and the varied hues
seen in the houses of Fuchsias. From thence they went to inspect
the nurseries of Mr. Phillip Ladds, round which they were very kindly
conducted by Mr. Ladds, jun. Here delight was largely intermingled
with astonishment at the magnitude of the operations carried on with
such striking success. In the afternoon Messrs. Cannells’ Eynsford
Nurseries and Seed Farms were visited, afterwards journeying to the
Eynsford Show, which was, very fortunately for them, being held on
that day. There can be no doubt that a most enjoyable and instructive
day was spent, and the thanks accorded to Mr. Cannell were hearty and
sincere, nor were they undeserved, for that gentleman had been inde¬
fatigable in his exertions to make things pleasant, and admirably he
succeeded. — H. W.

- Fruit Crops in the Midlands.— “ Observer” writes: —

So far as I can see the fruit crops in the midland counties are fairly
good, and in some cases much beyond the average. Apples appear to
be very plentiful, and are selling at nominal prices in local markets.
Plums are plentiful, and it is with difficulty that small growers can
dispose of them at remunerative prices, especially the ordinary varieties.
Pears are not quite so abundant, these apparently having failed to set
well.”

- One dry season in the sixties Runner Beans in this neigh¬
bourhood were a complete failure, although growing strong from watering
and mulching. Noticing a row in a cottage garden bearing a very heavy
crop I asked the cotter how he managed his Beans. “ Water them over¬
head, master, in the evening to set them.” I did not water mine over¬
head but syringed them, and had plenty of Beans, and I have often since
then stopped the flowers failing off by simply syringing in the evening.

I am doing so now and have plenty of Beans. — Jas. Hamilton,
Byrliley Gardens.

- Jargonelle Pear. — One of the finest and handsomest trees

of this excellent early Pear I have seen was in a small cottage garden at
Chessington, Surrey, very recently. The tree is probably fifty years old,
very tall, remarkably well proportioned, a perfect natural standard
pyramid, in the most complete health, and carrying a grand crop ot fine
fruit. On the upper boughs they hung literally like ropes of Onions.
Autumn Bergamot, there called the “ Bergamy,” and Beurr6 Capiaumont
w ere also fruiting wonderfully. The district seems to be specially a
favourable one for Pears. — A. D.

- Apple Shepherd’s Seedling.— I found this Apple repre¬
sented by large old trees growing in a Surrey village the other day.
Dr. Hogg, I observe, states in the “Fruit Manual” that it is identical
with Alfriston. Finding it under the first appellation had led me to
conclude that it was of local origin ; but of course Alfriston has a
national reputation. Owing to the height of the trees, and the fact that
because of the drought the fruits were not of the usual size, it was
difficult to determine what it was ; but I daresay Dr. Hogg is right,
especially as the variety is mentioned in the locality in question as a
good cropper and keeper.— D.

- Cucumber Peerless. — When I was recently at the Swiss

Nursery, Farnham, and looked through several houses of Cucumbers of
various kinds, the fruits hanging for seed in such great quantities I
thought a photograph of the houses would have been regarded as
imaginary. The last house Mr. Mortimer took me into was filled with
Peerless, as sent out by Messrs. Sutton & Sons, although certificated
under the name of Success. Certainly was the simile, “ thou hast kept
the good wine until now ” here most applicable. The long fruits were
of the most perfect form, wonderfully handsome, and I think for length
and beauty difficult to surpass. It is a variety, however, that, in sp'te
of the abundance of fruit, seeds most sparingly. — A. D.

- Agricultural Fertilizers and Feeding Stuffs. — The

House of Commons Grand Committee on Trade have concluded their
revision of the Fertilizers and Feeding Stuffs Bill, introduced by the
Minister for Agriculture (Mr. H. Gardner). Sir J. Gorst presided. It was
agreed that County Councils should be empowered to appoint officers to
take on behalf of buyers samples for analysis of the products dealt with
by the measure. It was resolved that any person fraudulently tampering
with such samples should be liable to six months’ imprisonment, and
that the Board of Agriculture itself, as well as other parties mentioned
in the measure, might prosecute under it. The Bill as amended was
ordered to be reported.

- International Exhibition of Fruit Culture. — We

have been requested to draw the attention of the fruit growers to an
International Exhibition, to be held by the Russian Society of Fruit
Culture, under the patronage of the Czar, at St. Petersburg, in the
autumn of 1894, with the object of showing the present condition of the
cultivation of fruit and vege ables, of viticulture, of the cultivation of
various special plants, and the manufacture of their products. The
Exhibition will comprise the following sections : — 1, Fresh fruit ;
2, fresh vegetables ; 3, dried fruit and vegetables, preserved or treated
by other processes ; 4, wine, cider, perry, and other fruit beverages ;
5, Hops and medical herbs ; 6, seeds ; 7, fruit trees and bushes ;
8, horticultural implements and appliances, and technicality of pro¬
duction ; 9, literary, scientific, and educational accessories, collections,
plans, &c. Applications for further information should be addressed to
the offices of the International Exhibition of Fruit Culture, 1891,
Imperial Agricultural Museum, Fontanka, 10, St. Petersburg.

148

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ AuguBt 17, 1893.

- Bottesford Horticultural Society. — Like many other

horticultural societies, the members of above held their annual
Exhibition on August 7th. It was a successful gathering, there being
upwards of 600 entries in the classes for fruit, flowers, and vegetables.
In every section the exhibits were of good quality and reflected credit
upon the respective growers.

- Early Apricots. — Mr. B. G. Jenkins, West Dulwich, S.E.,

writes : — “ I enclose three or four fruits from an Apricot tree I have
growing on an open standard in my garden. The tree, which has not
had the slightest attention, is carrying upwards of 600 fruits, all in
good condition.” [Shipley’s Apricot is the name of the fruits our corre¬
spondent sends, the colouring and flavour of which are alike excellent.]

- Hailstones in Lincolnshire. — A correspondent writes: —

“ A heavy thunderstorm prevailed in South Lincolnshire on Thursday
morning, August 10th, during which hailstones of an enormous size fell.
At Grantham some pieces of ice as large and as square as ordinary lump
sugar were picked up. Much damage has been done in the neighbour¬
hood to glass houses, and Apples and Pears are injured in some gardens.”

- Melon Ingestre Hybrid. — Last week in visiting the gardens

at Ingestre, where fruits of all kinds are so well grown, I was much
impressed with the new Melon Mr. Gilman has raised by crossing Hero
of Lockinge with Countess, the result being a new variety of great
excellence. The constitution of the plant is strong, and it is a free
setter. The fruit is beautifully netted, of a bright goldenyellow colour, skin
thin, and shows no tendency to crack ; flesh greenish white, and flavour
of the highest type. In one house containing eight plants there were
from thirty to forty ripe fruits, averaging from 3 to 5 lbs. each. This
Melon was awarded a certificate of merit at the meeting of the Royal
Horticultural Society, May the 9th. — Robert Cock, F.R.H.S.

- Grand Yorkshire Gala. — At the general meeting of the

guarantors and life members of the above held last week, the recom¬
mendation of the Council that the sum of £251 be handed over to the
Tork charities was approved. The sum of £175 was added to the
reserve fund, bringing it up to £2000, and the remaining balance
carried forward to next year’s account. The following grants were
made: — York County Hospital, £50; the Dispensary, £50; Blue and
Grey Coat Schools, £30; Bootham Asylum, £25; Yorkshire Society’s
School, London, £21; the Industrial Schools, £20; Wilberforce School
for the Blind, £10; the Penitentiary, £10; the Invalid Kitchen, £10;
the Nurses’ Home, £10; Girls’ Friendly Society, £10; Society for the
Prevention of Cruelty to Children, £5 ; total, £251.

- Jam Sharpers. — Some revelations made in the columns of

" Food and Sanitation ” seem to show that some of the smaller jam
manufactories in London are badly in want of inspection by the public
health officers. Good jam can be, and is, sold at a very low price, but
some of the jam eaten by the poor is made of disgusting ingredients.
The other day several tons of fruit, described as in a revolting state,
were seized at one factory in North London. It included three vanloads
of tinned Pine Apples, quite rotten, and some tons of Gooseberries,
Apples, Oranges, and other fruits, as well as a lot of Onions and
Walnuts, mostly putrid. A strange find was a quantity of Plum stones,
dirty, as if gathered in the streets. There can be little doubt that
these were intended to be mixed with so-called Plum jam, which is not
made of Plums at all, but of Marrows, Apples, and other vegetable
matter in a more or less useless condition. In some instances poisonous
colourings are used to give the manufactured article an attractive
appearance.

- Golden Rathripe Peach. — Mr. E. Trollope writes from

Coombe Park, Reading : — “ I send a sample of Peaches gathered from
a south wall, outdoors, labelled Golden Rathripe. It is a variety which
I think is not generally grown, but appears to do remarkably well here.

It is a good cropper, one of the finest-looking Peaches, and the flavour
is much liked. We have had a wonderful crop of fruit of all kinds this
year. Apricots and Plums especially. We face due south, and everything
was quite a month earlier than I ever knew it.” [We think the name
of the Peach is incorrect, yet although the Golden Rathripe may be
regarded as one of the best of the yellow-fleshed American Peaches in
quality, it cannot be compared with our best established varieties. We
have known more than one instance of Golden Rathripe being removed
from Peach houses as disappointing after occupying valuable space for
years. It may possibly be better in favourable positions outdoors, and
especially, perhaps, during a season like the present one. Tastes also
vary, and there may be palates to which these pasty yellow-fleshed
Peaches are agreeable. The one sent is the clingstone, Pavie Jaune.]

- Nelumbium speciosum nuciferum. — This very scarce plant,.

the Sacred Bean of Egypt, so rarely seen in flower, is now in bloom
in one of the stoves at the Royal Gardens, Frogmore, and was an
object of great interest to the Birmingham Gardeners’ Association on.
the occasion of their recent visit. It is a tall growing species, with
large bold foliage, and the flowers pure white and deliciously
fragrant. It is growing in a pan of water.

- The annual report of the Royal Botanic Garden, Cal¬
cutta, of which Lieut-Colonel G. King, F.R.S., is Superintendent, has
been issued. From it we learn from “ Nature ” that all the efforts to
introduce the cultivation of the Japanese Paper Mulberry have failed,
As the Superintendent points out, this Mulberry yields a beautiful fibre,
which is naturally so white that it requires very little bleaching, hence
it seems a pity that no wealthy landowner has taken up its cultivation
on a large scale.

- Grantham and District Horticultural Society. —

The first annual Exhibition of the above Society was held at Grantham
on Monday, August 7th. Upwards of eighty classes were provided, and
on the whole these were well filled, the exhibits being of excellent
quality. Messrs. J. R. Pearson & Sons, Chilwell Nurseries, Beeston,
Notts, sent some splendid floral designs and bouquets. Messrs. J. W,
Brown & Sons, Grantham and Stamford, also sent miscellaneous exhibits,
as likewise did Lord Brownlow, Sir Hugh Cholmeley, Sir J. Thorold,
and others.

- Torquay District Gardeners’ Association. — The first

annual excursion of the above Society took the form of a visit to
Taunton Show on the 10th inst. The party, consisting of eighty mem¬
bers, left Torquay by special train, arriving at Taunton soon after 10 A.M.
Luncheon was partaken of at the George Hotel, Mr. \V. B, Smale pre¬
siding. In addition to visiting the Show several of the party inspected
Mr, W. H. Fowler’s Chrysanthemums at Claremont, and admired the
splendid condition of the plants. Taunton Castle was also visited, and
the party returned home well satisfied with their day’s enjoyment.

- Turning Natural Advantages to Account^— Professor

Massey of the North Carolina Experimental Station writes that he can
see no reason why the cultivation of vegetables under glass should not
be profitable in the Southern States at points where quick transportation
northward is possible. “ If Boston growers can force Cucumbers at a
profit by using double sashes and heavy coal bills, why could not this
be done better still in North Carolina, with cheaper houses and half the
expense for fuel 1 If Lettuce is grown at a profit with fire heat, and sent
from Boston to Washington, why should not a man in North Carolina
grow it at a profit when he can raise equally good Lettuce in a simple
cold frame ? ” These remarks are suggestive, and have wide application.

- Painted Fruits. — The “Evening News ’’says the ingenuity

of the “ bird faker ” who could hide russet coats under all the hues of
the rainbow is being applied by Parisians in another sphere. Ingenious
fruit dealers have invented a way of colouring their wares in order to
improve their market value. They stain ordinary Oranges a deep red,
making them look like Mandarins, which fetch much higher prices.
They also tint Pine Apples to make them look more attractive, and dye
the common white Strawberries a lovely red. Melons are now being
treated in a similar way, and tinted a fine orange, their flavour being
increased by injecting an essence of Melon. The latest development
of this business is in connection with Pears, which are dyed red for a
third of their size, and blue below, thus presenting the national colours
when peeled. These are said to be in some demand for dessert fruit on
account of their novelty,

- The New York Fruit Market. — The “ Garden and Forest ’

says — “ Cherries from California seem as beautiful and abundant aa
they were two months ago. The varieties. Royal Anne and Black
Republican, are the popular favourites. Congress Pears are coming
from the same State and cost a little more than the Bartletts and
Howells. Crawford’s and Hale’s Early are the principal varieties of
Peaches which are now coming from the Pacific coast. Plums are still
abundant and cheap. From the Southern States Le Conte Pears are
coming of rather lower than ordinary quality. Peaches from the far
southern points are becoming rare, and those from Maryland and
Delaware are taking their places, and are of fair quality for early varieties.
Raspberries are practically out of the market. Astrachan and Sweet
Bough Apples are 1‘75 dols. a barrel. Pocono Mountain Huckleberries
are twelve cents, a quart. Good Gooseberries are worth two dols. a
bushel. Florida continues to send Delaware Grapes and some choice
Grape fruit.”

August 17, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

149

- The Birmingham Gardeners’ Association. — A large

number of members (236) of this Association visited Windsor Castle and
Frogmore Gardens on the 14th inst. They were met at the Windsor
Station by Mr. Thomas, and conducted by him through the State apart¬
ments, the Terrace garden, the Albert Memorial Chapel, St. George’s
Chapel, and the stables. At the dinner held at the Town Hall a hearty
vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Thomas for his great kindness, also
to the Kev. Canon Dalton for kindly volunteering to conduct the party
through the chapels, and explaining features of interest. The famous
Vine at Cumberland Lodge was subsequently inspected, and found in
admirable condition, many of the bunches on the young growths being
of good size and quality. The 300-acre lake Virginia Water was a great
treat, and the Shaw Farm much admired. Frogmore Gardens, with
their high standard of excellence, were a pleasure to see. A “ grand
outing” was the universal verdict, and unstinted praise was accorded
to Mr. Thomas for having given so much time and personal attention
to details the whole day through.

- Eynsford Show. — The Eynsford Cottage Gardeners’ Mutual

Improvement Society held their annual Show in Luliingstone Park
by the kind permission of Sir William Hart-Dyke, M.P., the display
of flowers and vegetables being a highly creditable one. Interest was
•without doubt chiefly centred in the special prizes offered by Messrs.
Henry Cannell & Sons, Swanley and Eynsford, for a collection of
vegetables grown from their seeds, to consist of six Tomatoes, six
•Carrots, a dish of thirty pods of Peas, four Cabbages, a dish of nine
round and one of nine kidney Potatoes, three Cauliflowers, six Beet¬
roots, three Marrows, six Turnips, thirty pods of Scarlet Banners, and
nine Onions, spring sown. With the prize in this clas.s, which was
open to the various Kentish Amateurs’ Societies, a silk sash was given
having on it the words “ Champion Vegetable Grower of Kent ” in raised
silk characters, also given ’oy Messrs. Cannell. Six collections were
staged, the Milton-near-Sittingbourne Society being adjudged the
victors by the narrow majority of three points, Eynsford, the holders
during the last year, being placed second, and the Kemsing and Otford
Society a very close third. Amongst the best produce in the Milton
•stand were Tomatoes, Carrots, Onions, Turnips, and Scarlet Runners ;
the Eynsford stand being strongest with Potatoes, Peas, Onions,
Cabbages, and Cauliflowers. The sash will be competed for again next
jear, when the competition will, it is expected, be even stronger, and
the result will be looked forward to with eagerness in the county. — H. W.

- The Dinner Contest at Carshalton. — The Wallington

Herald thus refers to this contest “It was evident that considerable
thought had been bestowed on the subject, and that many of the dinners
had not been prepared until the way in which the money should be
spent had been arranged over and over again. It was noticeable that
hardly any two had chosen the same joint of meat, or had prepared it in
exactly the same w^ay. Some had first made soup from the meat
before cooking it, to appear on the table, others had roasted or boiled,
whilst still others had had recourse to the satisfying and nutritious
meat pie. The highest number of marks were awarded to Mrs. Smee
(not a competitor), who had thus arranged her menu, and divided the
money allowed her : Two mackerel 4d,, meat pie, 9^d., Potatoes fd..
Beans 2d., bread Id., sweets 3d., cheese Jd., butter Jd., and vinegar and
spice Jd., total Is. 9|d. The first prize was awarded to Mrs. Stevens of
West Street, Carshalton, who had thus spent her money : Soup from
beef, flavouring Id., pressed beef 9d., Beet, Parsley, and glazing l^d..
Beans 3d., Potatoes 2d., bread Id., Plum tart 4d., custard l^d. Mrs.
Barr took second prize, her dinner consisting of breast of mutton lid..
Potatoes 2d., Veeetable Marrow Id., Cabbage Id., pudding (milk rizine)
IJd., bread and butter IJd., Apple pie 3d., cheese Id., Lettuce Jd., and
herb beer ^d., she being the only competitor who had made any
allowance for the wants of thirsty Nature. Other competitors were
equally ingenious, and there can be no question that this new departure
has given many a bothered housewife a few ideas of what can be done
with a small sum of money by the exercise of a little thought and care.
It is, however, but fair to say that a good deal of doubt was expressed
by many of the visitors as to the possibility of purchasing in an ordinary
way the quantity of meat specified in many of the exhibits at anything
like the amounts placed opposite to them, even if the purchases were
delayed until the butchers were anxious to sell. Of course the value of
the competition is altogether lost if there are any doubts as to the bona
jides of the prices alleged to have been given, and therefore it would be
well, if the class is repeated next year, if some sort of a certificate were
to be required from the competitors showing that the purchases had
been made in the open market, at the prices then current, and that the
tradesmen had not been told what they were for.”

- About 150 members of the Scottish Arboricultural

Society have been spending a week in the south of England. After
inspecting Burnham Beeches, Windsor, Cliveden, the New Forest, and
Kew their tour closed on Saturday with a visit to the Gardening and
Forestry Exhibition at Earl’s Court. Mr. H. E. Milner, the Chairman
of the Exhibition, in an excellent speech at the luncheon, thanked the
Scottish Society for spreading throughout the world a knowledge of the
best methods of cultivating trees. Mr. Malcolm Dunn, in respondingi
remarked that they had seen much to avoid in forestry, yet something
good and worth remembering, not the least being generous hospitality.
The Forestry exhibits were subsequently inspected and explained by
Professor Curtis of Downton College. The visitors then cooled them¬
selves at Captain Boy ton’s Water Show.

- The Japanese Apple. — Referring to the “ Forest Flora of

Japan” in the “Garden and Forest,” “ G. S. S.” says “ Of true Apple
trees there is apparently only a single indigenous species in Japan, the
Pyrus Toringo of Siebold. This is the tree which is often cultivated in
American and European gardens as Pyrus Malus floribunda, Pyrus
microcarpa, Pyrus Parkmani, Pyrus Halleana, Pyrus Sieboldi, and
Pyrus Ringo. It is a common and widely distributed plant in Japan,
growing from the sea-level in Yezo to elevations of several thousand
feet in central Hondo, usually in moist ground in the neighbourhood of
streams. Sometimes it is a low bush, but more often a tree 15 to 30 feet
in height, with a short stout trunk and spreading branches. The leaves
are exceedingly variable, and on the same plant are often oblong,
rounded or acute at the apex, or broadly ovate or more or less deeply
three-lobed. The fruit, which, like that of the Siberian Pyrus baccata,
loses the calyx before it is fully ripe, resembles a Pea in size and shape,
and in colour varies from bright scarlet to yellow. In early spring
Pyrus Toringo is one of the most beautiful of the trees found in our
gardens, where it is perfectly hardy, and covers itself every year with
fragrant pink or red single or semi-double flowers.”

- Royal Botanic Society of London. — The fifty-fourth

anniversary meeting of this Society has been held at the Gardens,
Regent’s Park, Mr. Charles Brinsley Marlay in the chair. The Duke of
Teck was re-elected President, and Mr. H. Lindsay Antrobus Treasurer,
for the ensuing year. From the annual report it appeared that the
number of new Fellows elected was nearly the same as last year. The
various exhibitions and fStes had been successfully carried out, the
exhibits both in number and quality being above the average. That of
the evening fete especially had been the largest since it was instituted
twenty-two years ago. The scientific work of the Society had rather
increased than otherwise. Nearly 700 students of science, art, and
medicine had received free orders of admission of from one to three
months during the year, and the facilities offered to schools, classes,
and scientific societies generally had been largely taken advantage of.
Among new clients in this branch might be noted many of the students
studying botany in the London Board Schools. The special plants
successfully cultivated for the first time included specimens of the
Mangrove, Rhizophora, and an ant habitation plant from Torres
Straits. Within the spiny tuberous root of this plant numbers of the
common red garden ant have made a home, to the apparent benefit
of both. The meeting closed with a unanimous vote of thanks to the
Chairman.

- Kineton Flower Show. — Notwithstanding the drought of

early summer the present season seems to be an unusually good one for the
production of late Potatoes. At the above-named Show, which was held
on the 10th inst., Potatoes were a remarkable feature, the tubers being
characterised by great size, good form, and perfectly clear skins. It is
rare indeed to see such splendid examples of good culture exhibited at
local shows, and the inhabitants of the district deserve great credit for
their cultural achievement. In the non-competing classes, Mr. J.
Garner, gardener to E. Cassell, Esq., exhibited a fine collection of fruit,
containing Black Hamburgh and Foster’s Seedling Grapes, both of
which were noteworthy for their beautiful colour. Mr. F. Perkins of
the Leamington Nurseries staged an excellent and effective group of
plants. The Show was held in the delightful grounds of Lord
Willoughby de Broke, whose gardens were thrown open to the public
during the afternoon and evening, when large numbers of visitors
enjoyed a pleasant stroll around them. In the flower garden I noticed
fine beds of Begonias and Tropasolum Mrs. Clibran ; the latter is
evidently an acquisition, destined to become universally popular.
Chrysanthemums were also looking wonderfully well, but the crown
buds had shown several weeks in advance of their usual time, and were
therefore removed. — H. D.

150

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 17, IWJ.

LiELIA TENEBROSA WALTON GRANGE

VARIETY.

A VERY beautiful and noteworthy Orchid was exhibited at the
last meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society by Mr. Stevens,
gardener to W. J. Thompson, Esq., Walton Grange, Stone, Staffs.
It was a form of Laslia tenebrosa with yellow sepals and petals,
and attracted a good deal of attention and admiration from the
orchidists present. It is without doubt a fine and imposing variety,
the flowers being of considerable size and the colouring harmonious.
The sepals and petals are clear butter yellow, the lip white, the
throat deep crimson. A first class certificate was awarded,
and fig. 22 represents the form. Mr. Stevens informs us that the
flowers came on the current year’s growth from an imported piece

that was purchased early this year — a fact which should be a
further encouragement to those who buy importations mainly in
the hope of something unexpected and valuable appearing amongst
them.

THE SUMMER MANAGEMENT OF WALL FRUIT TREES.

The first important step to be taken in the building up of the
healthy fruitful fruit tree is to give it adequate root room, needful
drainage, and suitable soil, following with a skilful manipula¬
tion and distribution of the summer growths, and keeping them in a
clean condition. The latter essential is not so much a question of time
as it is a want of prompt action. Assuming that young trees were duly
planted on the lines indicated soon after the fall of the leaf last autumn,
and that in training the shoots to the trellis or wall in the spring no
hard and fast cutting back method of procedure was practised, but on
the contrary, the five, seven, nine or a dozen growths of the previous
year were spread out widely and evenly apart over the space allotted to
each tree, there will be ample room for laying in sufficient shoots of the
current year’s growth.

The summer management of fruit trees consists in keeping them in
a healthy growing condition at the roots as well as above ground. If
the soil is dry about the roots, as is generally the case with wall trees,
even in the winter months, no amount of manipulating and syringing
of the branches and leaves will bring about the same results that
would he obtained from trees growing in moist soil.

Root and branch must be kept in a healthy state from the time
the first sign of growth appears, that is, the soil should be kept
uniformly moist about the roots, top growth being judiciously dis¬
budded and pinched, and kept free from the attacks of insects.
Aphis and red spider speedily make serious inroads on the leaves if not
promptly dealt with. A solution of clear water and tobacco juice at the
rate of 1 quart of the latter to 4 gallons of the former applied with
the syringe to the trees affected with green or black fiy in the afternoon
after the sun has gone off the trees, in the case of trees on south and

west walls, will not only rid them of the insects then on the trees, bat,
as a rule, will render the foliage distasteful to future attacks. Peach
trees being well washed with clean water from the garden engine every
bright afternoon during the summer and early autumn months will
prevent them being attacked by red spider.

Where Peach and Nectarine trees have not been properly disbudded
earlier in the season no time should be lost in reducing the number of
young growths, retaining those nearest to their bases to produce fruit
next year. Lay them in between the shoots from which they proceed
with small twigs — say at 3 inches apart, afterwards pinching out alll
foreright shoots or secondary growths as they appear. Remove the
points from any extra vigorous young shoots at about 2 feet, so as to
direct the flow of sap into the weaker, and thereby conduce to an evea
growth in the tree. Apricots, Pears, Plums, Apples, and Sweet
Cherries should’ have the leading young shoots trained in position to

cover the wall space, pinching at 2 feet
or so for the purpose indicated, and stop¬
ping the foreright growths or breastwood
at about six leaves from their origin.
Morello Cherries should be treated the
same as Peach and Nectarine trees. A
judicious course of pinching and stopping
of the shoots being pursued during the
summer months tends to the plumping
of wood buds, the formation of spurs or
fruit buds, and a promotion of balance
of growth in the trees operated on. It.
also tends to the swelling of the crop
to greater dimensions than would other¬
wise be attained, and prevents the forces
of the trees being wasted, as is the case
when breastwood 15 to 24 inches long is-
allowed to grow before being cut back
in autumn, as is too often the case. Pigs
may be treated in the manner recom¬
mended for Peaches, only the shoots
should be given more room to develop.
All young retained growths should be
secured to the wall or trellis in due time,
leaving room in the shreds or ties for the

enlargement of growth. — H. W. WARD.

0

SWEET PEAS.

Last summer, in the course of some
remarks on Sweet Peas, I referred to
the bad germinating quality of English-
saved seeds of the previous year. If
anything last autumn proved even more
disastrous, so that those only who were
judicious in their treatment of the seed
are likely to have had a satisfactory
growth. The weakly appearance of the
seeds of several varieties impressed me
so unfavourably that I sowed none in
the open ground, but took the precaution to sow the seeds thickly
among light sandy soil in ordinary cutting boxes, from whence in
due time the young plants were transplanted into the garden. I
have quite 150 yards of Sweet Peas, the plants having been raised as
above, and every foot of the lines is covered with healthy flowering-
plants. In practice the operation is not so absorbent of labour as
might appear. When the seedlings had grown 6 inches in height
they were planted in the following manner : — After a line had been
stretched along the ground a cutting was made with a spade to a depth
sufficient to allow the roots to be spread out therein. Then while one
man put the plants in their places another followed with a spade and
filled in the soil. All earth was shaken off the roots before being
planted. According to sort each plant was from 2 to 6 inches apart.
A few Spruce Fir branches were placed on each side of the row of plants,
these forming an efficient protection until longer sticks were required to
support the lengthened growths. New varieties, and a few intended for
seed-producing purposes were brought forward in small pots. These
were planted at a foot to 2J feet apart. I am hopeful of obtaining
a supply of good seeds from these specially treated plants ; always,
however, entertaining a dread that sparrows and finches may leave
but few.

I have sometimes heard it remarked that the improved forms of
Sweet Peas when compared with common strains are not so telling as
garden flowers. Possibly that is so. As cut flowers, however, there can
be no doubt as to the immense superiority of the former, and with
regard to effect in mass that is very much a matter of opinion. It is
the same in reference to new sorts. I have heard the beauty of
Venus disparaged by one person while another upheld it as a charming
flower ; so also with Countess of Radnor. The same diversity of
taste is apparent in present day Carnations, more especially in those
peculiarly tinted forms which are sent over by French and German
cultivators.

I thought I would like to test the value of a selected number of
Sweet Peas commercially. The variety most “ run on,” in the words of
the salesman, is Mrs. Gladstone, but Her Majesty is also good. These
two varieties are also very floriferous, the latter, owing to the large size

Angast 17, 1893. J

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

151

of the individual blooms, bulking well. When the new white form,
almost rivalling Her Majesty in size, is sent out by Mr. Eckford no
variety ought to be more profitable. Blanche Burpee ii the name of
thii variety, and growers would do well to note its advent. Then
Mrs. Gladstone has a formidable rival in Blushing Beauty, a variety
not quite so floriferous, but with much larger flowers and of a softer
more satiny shade. Of crimson forms 1 still like Cardinal. Firefly has a
larger bloom, but perhaps hardly so bright. Lady Penzance is excellent,
and other good ones that I like not already named are Mrs. Eckford,
Orange Prince, Captain of the Blues, and Royal Robe. — B.

MR. LAXTON AND HIS WORK.

The name of “Laxton” is so familiar to readers of horticultural
literature all the world over that a portrait of the raiser of more new
vegetables of sterling worth than probably any other man of his time,
and also of several Strawberries and flowers, cannot fail to be acceptable
to the great body of amateur and professional cultivators.

Mr. T. Laxton commenced his experiments in hybridisation as an
amusement about the year 1865, and on 7th July, 1868, he obtained his
first certificate from the R.H.S. for the Pea Supreme, raised by crossing
the old Sugar Pea (having an enormous pod, but few seeds) withNe Plus
Ultra. This was followed by Alpha, certificated on August 2nd, 1869.
At the same time he took the Zonal Pelargonium in hand, raising
Jewell, certificated in 1871, and Emily Laxton, one of the first semi¬
double scarlets. He also raised the first double white, named in honour
of the late Jean Sisley. Continuing his work among Peas he next
produced William I., Dr. Hogg, Marvel, Omega, Fillbasket, and G. F.
Wilson.

Roses were not overlooked, his first being named Chas. Darwin,
followed by Anne Laxton, Emily Laxton, Dr. Hogg and Mrs. Laxton,
all purchased and sent out by Messrs. G. Paul & Son, Cheshunt.
Princess Louise, Duchess of Bedford and Mrs. Harry Turner were also
raised by Mr. Laxton. He still continued his experiments with Peas,
and corresponded with the late Mr. Charles Darwin on the cross¬
fertilization of the Leguminosas.

Mr. Laxton removed to Bedford in January 1878, and took trial and
experimental grounds at Girtford, devoting his whole life and energy to
the work he had always so much at heart. His next certificate, gained
in 1879, was for Minimum Pea, a dwarf only 6 inches high ; then
followed John Bull, William Hurst, Evolution and Charmer. He also at
the same time gave attention to Potatoes, raising by cross-fertilization
Reward, Bouncer and Beds Hero, and selected the valuable white
variety from the original pink Beauty of Hebron, and which is now
extensively grown by market gardeners as well as many others. Sweet
Peas attracted his notice, and he raised the Invincible Carmine (still
one of the brightest scarlets) followed by Invincible Blue, the nearest
approach then to a blue Sweet Pea, but time would not allow of
his continuing this branch, which he relinquished in favour of
Strawberries.

His first raised at Girtford was King of Ear lies, followed by Captain
and the now world-renowned Noble. This, unlike nearly all his other seed¬
lings, was not an artificial hybrid, but a natural one from Forman’s
Excelsior, probably fecundated by bee agency with the strong
growing American variety, Kerr’s Prolific. He sowed the seeds from an
exceedingly fine fruit, as he believed in the deterioration of a stock
through saving seed, as is often done after all the best pickings have
been taken. Tomatoes were also treated by him with success, Laxton’s
Open Air being still considered one of the best. Onions were not over¬
looked, and Laxton’s Sandy Prize was the result of his endeavours
for improvement. Then followed more Strawberries, Latest of All,
A. F. Barron, Commander, Jubilee and White Knight, Potatoes still
had a share of the labours, the recently certificated Early Laxton,
(Sharpe’s Yictor x Ashleaf), being an improvement on both, and likely
to be largely grown both in private and market gardens.

Peas were still a factor, Walton Hero, Earliest of All, Early William
(the early selection of William the First), Alderman, Oracle, then the
fine “ Gradus,” which he considered his greatest achievement (Earliest
of All X Duke of Albany), producing pods as early as the former with
the size of the latter. It was only distributed last year by the raiser
in conjunction with Messrs. Harrison of Leicester. The Brassica tribe
did not claim much of Mr. Laxton’s attention, but Chou de Bedford
was raised by him from the Chouve Tronchuda.

Unfortunately, Mr. Laxton was taken away when his work was
likely to gain for him some pecuniary recompense for the time and
money expended in producing his novelties. His great aim was to pro¬
duce something better and distinct from existing varieties. Nearly
everything raised was the result of careful selection and trial after
artificial cross-fertilisation, not, as in so many instances, the mere
selection from some well-known variety. He always advocated the
careful selection and seeding from the best and strongest flowers or
fruits. He never hybridised two weakly growing varieties. He also
firmly believed in seed-saving from the earliest seed to produce earlier
strains, and in this he was particularly successful — as, for instance, in
the selection of William the First Pea, which gave him a strain called
Early William, distinctly in advance of the existing stock.

Runner Beans. — The Czar, the largest white-flowered Runner;
Girtford Giant, a cross between Czar and the Old Scarlet ; and the new
Titan (Czar X Girtford Giant) are evidences of his success in this direc¬
tion. Laxton’s Open Air Cucumber was obtained from the outdoor

Ridge X Telegraph, and produces in good seasons very handsome smooth
fruits in the open. Much as Mr. Laxton has done he has left much
uncompleted, and as he often remarked a man in his profession ought
to have three lifetimes to see his work through. His last Strawberry
Royal Sovereign, from King of the Earlies X Noble, he considers the
best he has yet introduced, being only distributed this season.

Mr. Laxton was for many years a Fellow of the Royal Horticultural
Society, and served on the Fruit Committee. He was also formerly a
Fellow of the Linnean Society. He wrote articles for horticultural
journals both at home and in America till his health failed, thirty
years of incessant work at his life hobby leaving him enfeebled. He
leaves a widow and three daughters not, we are sorry to hear, too well
provided for, and also four sons, by two of whom, William and Edward,
the business will be continued. Mr. Laxton was an affectionate husband,
indulgent parent, and a modest, unassuming, genial man. He was born
at Tinwell, near Stamford, in 1830, and died on the date mentioned last

FIG. 23, — MB. THOMAS LAXTOH.

week. His remains were interred in the Bedford Cemetery, numerou
wreaths being placed on the bier by relatives and friends.

The above is an imperfect record of Mr. Laxton’s ■wmrk, but it
sufifices to show that his name will long have a place in the annals of
horticulture. _

Permit me as an old correspondent to express the surprise and deep
regret with which I saw the announcement of the death of my dear
friend Mr. Thomas Laxton of the Experimental Nursery, Bedford. It
was only the other day seemingly that I had an interesting letter from
him, making some inquiries about hybrid Tomatoes, Peas, and new
varieties of Potatoes specially suited for Ireland, he had asked me to try
and report on for him. It is quite a shock to think he is no more. I am
sure I express the voice of thousands of my countrymen and women in
wishing that long may the memory of so good a man be kept green. If
a subscription list is opened with that object I shall be pleased to
forward my cheque. — W. J. Murphy, Clonmel.

WINTER GREENS CLUBBING.

I AM afraid clubbing will be pretty general in winter greens
especially Brussels Sprouts and Broccoli. The plants here are in robust
health, having grown freely, but they now show signs of distress in
places, flagging under a very hot sun. It is getting late now to put out
young plants, but something must be done or great loss among the
plants will result. I only know of one remedy for plants already
affected, and that is to make the ground firm around each plant by
thoroughly treading the soil down with the feet, afterwards earthing the
plants up the same as Potatoes are earthed in spring. The plants will
soon make fresh roots higher up the stem than previously, and take
possession of the additional soil afforded them.

This has been an exceptionally dry season, making the work of grow¬
ing good Peas and Cauliflowers very difficult, especially in dry soils.
If it is difficult to raise these two crops, it is also the plants which ar»

152

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 17, 1893.

to iupply the needs of the winter naonths. It is during the time when
the plants are in the seed beds — June and July — that clubbing is
helped on by sowing the winter greens too soon, and allowing them to
remain in the seed beds longer than is good for them, This is not the
only cause. Planting year after year on the same ground with no
intermediate crop will conduce to clubbing. A change of ground is not
always to be had, so that extra attention should be paid to the plants in
their young stage of growth. It is very well to select a warm south
border for sowing the summer vegetables which are required for early
use, but I think it is preferable to make the seed beds for the winter
greens in the open garden, and use great care in sowing the seeds, by
first taking off 2 inches of surface soil, then well soaking the ground
with water, sowing the seeds upon the damp soil, and finally covering
with the dry earth which was first taken off, and not watering after¬
wards. If the seeds be good, germination will be quick and thorough.

While the seedlings are in a very young state is a most critical
time for them, as the fly will work havoc in the beds if not guarded
against, even after the two rough leaves have appeared. Upon the first
appearance of the fly an old herring net should be laid lightly over the
bed and eased off the plants every two days. A little anthracite coal
ash and soot mixed and dusted over the plants early in the morning
while they are wet with dew, will soon overcome the fly, but the herring
net itself is distasteful to them. If the plants are not sown too early
and placed out before a check to growth occurs, clubbing will be
lessened. Where time and space affords transplanting in a young state
is advisable, — G. Garner, Cadland Park Gardens.

VIOLAS.

The early part of this year proved a most propitious time for the
Viola, and brought it very prominently to the front as a spring decora¬
tive plant, and but for the tropical heat of the summer, and the terrible
plague of aphis in so many places, 1893 would have been a record year
for Violas. Mr. Williamson’s remarks last week, page 120, lead me to
say a few words, not in criticism, for he does not in the slightest degree
attempt to dogmatise, but pleasantly draws attention to the Viola as a
charming bedding plant, as it undoubtedly is. I heartily thank him
for giving good assistance in still further advocating its value, for it has
taken many years to get the plant popular. Of his kindly reference to
myself I am fully sensible.

Only a few days since I was at Umberslade Hall, Warwickshire,
where masses of that grandest of all white Violas, Countess of Hope-
toun, was in full beauty, planted out in April last in good soil in beds
in the flower garden ; the plants were robust and simply a mass of fine
flowers. My old variety, raised about fourteen or fifteen years since.
Dean’s True Blue, even now far away the very best blue Viola in
cultivation, was just as fine in every way as Countess of Hopetoun, and
masses of flower. Both are compact sturdy growers, of the same habit
and height, and are very early and continuous bloomers. Countess of
Wharncliffe, alluded to by Mr. Williamson, was sent out a few years
since. It was raised by Mr. Sfmpson at Wortley Hall near Sheffield ;
and it has been reintroduced from a Preston firm under the name of
Lord Fitzgerald. This is also similar in habit to the Countess of
Hopetoun, but is of a more snowy white colour, and does not open flat
as in others ; still it is a very effective, free-blooming variety. We have
a host of new whites— Sylvia, White Duchess, White Flag, and others
— some, too, closely like the Countess, but none so good or so valuable.

Those on the look out for sterling varieties for bedding will do well
to go in largely for Mrs. Charles Turner, blue purple ; William Neil, soft
rosy pink ; The Mearns, rosy violet with light top petals ; Duchess of
Fife, white and cream with bright brown margin ; Bullion, a grand
yellow ; The Queen, or Ardwell Gem, pale yellow ; Wonder, light
yellow ; Lady Amory, rich violet with dark top petals ; Bridesmaid,
very pale primrose. These are only a few of the very fine bedders.
We are getting a host of new sorts, many of them great rubbish, but
some of exceeding beauty, especially for exhibition, but as valued
bedders we must have good habit, telling distinct self colours, flori-
ferousness, good constitution, and early and continuous bloomers. —
Wm. Dean, Birmingham,

WASPS.

It should be well understood that some of the remedies advocated
for the destruction of these pests, such as cyanide of potassium and
advertised wasp destroyers, are most dangerous poisons. The former has
a deadly vapour and should only be used with the greatest caution :
with the latter, the poisoning of fruit freely exposed is advocated, a
most undesirable state of things and only to be resorted to at the last
extremity.

It is plain that destruction of the nests is the proper way of
extermination, but first ** catch your hare. * It is not everyone who
can readily find all the nests about the place even when they are quite
strong. When I was a boy, the account in one of Mayne Keid’s works
of the bee hunters of North America led me to try the same way of
finding wasps’ nests. Shortly, it consists of watching the direction of
fiight from two or more spots at a little distance from the infested places
and thus getting converging lines which should lead to the nests. One
soon gets accustomed to recognising a wasp from other insects by its
flight even 8f>me way off. A low place in a hedge will soon give you
some lines of flight, which should be followed up ; and likely banks and
hedges should of course also be examined in the sunshine.

When the nest is found, gas tar seems to me to be far away the best,
simplest, quickest, and least dangerous of all modes of destruction.
You pour a little down the hole at night, and the nest is destroyed — no
fire and no poison — time and trouble practically nil. For pendent nests,
the simplest plan seems a shot from a gun at close quarters — blank
cartridge will do. Go at night, have your shot, ’olow it to atoms, and
retreat speedily.

At a certain public school, where the boys are freely allowed out into
the country, the taking of wasps’ nests became a popular diversion ;
and, before long, pressed by the emulation which is so strong a feature
with English lads, it came to be reckoned a shame to take them other¬
wise than in broad daylight, and with any other weapons besides green
boughs and spades. Of course the boys got stung sometimes, but where
was the fun if there was no danger? To such a pitch was this
chivalrous spirit carried that, on one occasion finding and digging out a
small and weak nest, it was decided to carry it home and place it in a
convenient and secluded hole where it would not be meddled with, till
it was strong enough to defend itself : and this was actually done !
Rather absurd, but they were only boys — and young Englishmen !—
W. R. Raillem.

BARFORD HILL.

The residence of C. A. S. Ryland, Esq., occupies a delightful position
on the summit of one of the many undulating hills for which the varied
scenery of Warwickshire is justly famed. Starting from the county
town a three-miles drive over a broad level road brings us to the quaint
Roman bridge which spans the Avon, and gives access to the pleasant
village of Barford, where gay window-boxes, well kept cottage gardens,
teeming with brightly coloured flowers, speak volumes for the taste and
industry of the inhabitants, and afford a striking example of the rivalry
created and the good work done by cottage garden societies, for the
excellent condition of these wayside gardens must be attributed in a
great measure to the thriving horticultural society of which Barford
boasts, and which, thanks to the liberality of the owner of Barford Hill
is well supported. Thus far on our journey we have pursued a straight
and even course, neither turning to the right nor the left, except to give
a passing or a backward glance to some special object of attraction
which anon caught our eyes as they turned in rapid succession to the
right or to the left. Thus we sped on pleasantly enough till it suddenly
dawned upon us that too great a regard for the main road and its
diversions had caused us to leave behind the gardens we intended to
visit. The turn we should have taken was, however, yet in sight ; it was
reached again in a few minutes, and we began to pursue an upward
course over a road which rises by a series of erratic gradients to the top
of Barford Hill. Here we find the entrance to the gardens close at
hand, and Mr. R. Jones, the able and energetic gardener, on the spot to
welcome us. On entering the kitchen garden the first object to arrest
attention was a bed of summer flowering Chrysanthemums, which even
thus early ( J uly 28th) were aglow with their golden flowers. Pr6cocit6
and Flora were the varieties principally grown. Marigolds, Asters,
Lobelias, and many fine seedling Verbenas occupied an adjoining border,
which faces the gardener’s pleasant and commodious residence, at the
opposite end of which is a charming verandah entwined with a rich
profusion of creepers, a mass of the fine purple coloured flowers of
Clematis Jackmanni producing a striking effect.

We next proceed between an avenue of bush Chrysanthemums,
which are arranged around the sides of the walks ; they are fine plants
in splendid health, and will undoubtedly make a beautiful display
during the autumn months, as there are 500 of them grown in the bush
form ; but more of Chrysanthemums anon, when we come to the plants
which are grown for supplying large blooms.

Apple and Pear trees, trained in pvramidal form, are planted a few
feet from the edges of the walk. Nearly all of these are this year
carrying heavy crops, notably two fine trees of Pitmaston Duchess
Pear, which have numbers of very large fruits. Mr. Jones attributes
bis success to the practice of keeping the branches thinly disposed. In
a newly made kitchen garden a long avenue of standard Apples, Pears,
and Plums have been planted ; these have made capital growth, and
give promise of supplying abundance of choice fruit in a few years, as
the most approved varieties have been selected. Apricots on walls have
very heavy crops, a general experience in the neighbourhood. Large
quantities of vegetables are required, and every effort is being made to
meet the demand, which is maintained at present under somewhat
adverse circumstances, as the soil is cold and heavy. Plenty of rough
strawy manure is, however, dug into all vacant quarters during the
autumn months, when the land is thrown up roughly, so that the action
of the frost may pulverise it. This course of treatment will assuredly
soon work a great improvement in the mechanical condition of the
surface soil, which is already rich in chemical constituents. Splendid
rows of Runner Beans, fine heads of Cabbage, heavy solid bulbs of
Onions, and sturdy Beet all attest that the soil is productive, notwith¬
standing the fact that much difficulty is experienced in working it in
the spring and establishing young crops. I noticed several rows of
Windsor Castle Potato were being grown, and was curious to see a
sample of the tubers. On lifting several roots these proved to be
wonderfully even in size, having every appearance of a good table
variety, for which purpose Mr. Jones speaks highly of it. Beauty, as
well as utility, is studied in the kitchen gardens at Barford Hill. The
walks are formed of grass kept closely cut, and bordered on each side
with herbaceous plants and annuals, which at the time of my visit were
wouderfaliy effective. Double Zinnias and East Lothian Stocks were

August 17, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

163

especially good ; the latter are sown early in the spring, and the
majority of them flowered during the ensuing summer.

Glass structures are numerous and arranged in a somewhat scattered
form in various parts of the kitchen garden. In the range which we
first enter the houses have three-quarter span roofs. For lightness
and finish these structures are admirable. There is, however, one
drawback in connection with them — the framework is of iron, and those
who have had experience with glass houses of this description are well
aware what great watchfulness and care are necessary in the matter of
ventilation and damping to counteract the great fluctuation in
temperature for which hothouses constructed of similar materials are
noted. It may therefore be readily understood that they do not find
favour at Barford Hill, especially after the recent tropical weather. In
the stove we found a clean healthy collection of plants of the right size
for decorative purposes, for which they are in great demand. The
central bed was occupied principally with Palms and Crotons, the latter
being well coloured. C. Weismani, angustifolius, Chelsoni, Victoria,
Disraeli, Thompsoni, and many other varieties were well represented,
the wall of the bed being completely covered with a trailing mass of
Panicum variegatum, while on the roof a thinly trained plant of Bougain¬
villea glabra bore imposing panicles of rose-coloured bracts, a useful
shelf on the back wall being filled with Calanthes and other plants.
The vineries are not numerous, being only two in number. Considering
the Vines in these are old, an additional house or two in this department
would be a great advantage, as without the loss of a crop it is a
difficult matter to plant young Vines. An inside border has. however, been
made, and some young Vines recently planted, which will next year be
cut down to within a few inches of the soil. Mr. Jones, being an old
“ Floors Castle” man, may be depended upon to do the best that can be
done under the circumstances. The old Vines are carrying a heavy crop
of excellent Grapes just the right size in bunch for table use.
Gros Colman, Gros Guillaume, Black Hamburgh, Buckland Sweet¬
water, and Muscat all growing in one house. At the end of the range
is a lofty conservatory, where many good specimens of Pelargoniums,
Fuchsias, and miscellaneous plants were growing. In this house the
bulk of the Chrysanthemums are flowered ; although some of the plants
must necessarily be at a great distance from the glass, it is on the whole
a capital place for them, being a light airy structure, just such a one as
Mr. Molyneux would have liked for his plants of Madame C. Audiguier
when he used to grow them 12 feet high. Near by we enter a capital
range of Peach houses, the trees being trained on a curved trellis in the
front, others occupying the back wall. Fine fruits of Royal George
Peach and Victoria Nectarine were still hanging in one division. In
the others the trees were clean, healthy and vigorous. Several good
span-roofed plant houses have recently been built. In one of these we
found a splendid collection of seedling tuberous Begonias, the plants
were well grown sturdy examples, and made a fine display. One variety
in particular was noted for its enormous well shaped flowers, and with
judicious hybridising should prove the parent of a splendid race of
seedlings.

A start has been made with Orchids, a couple of houses being
principally devoted to them. The majority of the plants are small,
having only recently been obtained, but they are clean and healthy,
appearing to be quite at home in their abode. A well-marked variety of
Oncidium Krameri was in full beauty, as were several good spikes of
flower among the Odontoglossums. The collection will in a short time
be a good one, as choice species and varieties are being continually added
to it, while those already obtained are making good progress. Another
range of houses is devoted to the growth of Melons, Pines, Ferns, with
batches of Cyclamen growing on shelves near the glass, a cool structure
adjoining being used for forwarding plants just coming into flower
preparatory to being taken to the mansion or conservatory proper. Near
here are plenty of useful pits in which Cyclamen, Primulas, and
Cinerarias are in capital condition. Zonal Pelargoniums and Bouvardias
are grown extensively for winter flowering. These were looking remark¬
ably well, and will prove quite a sheet anchor during the dull season.
Much more might be said on this subject, but I must pass onward, as
there are other things to tell of.

Chrysanthemums, of which 850 are grown on the large bloom
principle, demand notice. As we approach them it is not difficult to
see that our guide is a Chrysanthemum enthusiast. The light kindles
in his eye, and his countenance is aglow with animation as we
obtain a f ull view of his “ Chrysanthemum field,” for indeed such it
seems. A splendid position in a wide open spot has been selected for
them. The plants are arranged in rows running east and west, with
some 4 or 5 feet of space between each row. Every facility is thus
given for attending to the wants of each plant, and also for thoroughly
examining them. This we proceeded to do. Passing along every row of
plants we carefully note their condition, looking out for old favourites,
and generally finding them as well as nearly all the new ones of proved
merit. G. C. Schwabe, Viscountess Hambledon, Mohawk, Col. W. B.
Smith, Lord Brooke, Middleton Clark, and Beauty of Exmouth are
represented by several good plants. All are in capital health, and are
remarkable for the firm, hard growth made ; there is no approach to
grossness, and the leaves are as thick and leathery as it is possible to
have them. They are now taking on that bronzy tint which is a sure
indication of ripeness consequent upon exposure. Like many other
cultivators this year Mr. Jones finds the crown buds formed too early.
In nearly all instances they have therefore been removed and successional
ones promise to come quite soon enough. Many men, especially gardeners,
have a knack of showing visitors the best last. Such was our experience

in this instance. Good as the plants already seen were, the last row sur¬
passed all others. Etoile de Lyon and Miss Lilian Bird were the varieties
which held the post of honour. These were exceptionally strong, yet
hard, and without doubt well ripened, and I fancy it will be difficult to
meet with better plants. With a lingering look we leave them to hasten
to the pleasure grounds before the shades of evening fall.

Around the outskirts we follow a pretty winding walk, and wend our
way among some artistically arranged rockwork containing Yuccas,
Ferns, and other suitable plants. Catching a pretty glimpse of park¬
like scenery, we cross the green sward, near large beds of vigorous Roses,
and wend our way to the terrace around the mansion. Below we have
a series of oblong beds planted chiefly with Pelargoniums, Lobelias, and
Pyrethrums. Black Douglas is a bronze tricolor very popular here,
where it grows and colours wonderfully well. One unique bed was
filled with this variety and edged wi^h a broad band of Manglesi.
Others were masses of rose, pink, or scarlet provided with suitable
edgings. Near the centre of this line of beds were two grand Golden
Yews, perfect specimens some 10 or 12 feet high. The whole of the
pleasure gardens were in fine trim, tidiness and good order being
apparent on every hand. Following the terrace walk we pass to the
conservatory adjoining the mansion. Here a fine plant of Tacsonia
Van-Volxcmi covers the roof, the shoots being allowed to drop loosely
from it, must have a fine effect when in flower. Palms and other fine-
foliaged plants luxuriate in the central bed, while a good selection of
flowering plants brighten up the side stages.

We now retrace our steps to the terrace walk in order to take a
lingering view of the fine scene before us. Our eyes first rest upon the
brightly coloured flower beds beneath, then wander to the cool refreshing
green of a distant belt of trees ; this belt is broken in its outline, and
between the serried lines shine the bright waters of Shakespeare’s
“flowing Avon.” From the water to the tree tops the space widens, as
if to give a clearer view of the stately tower of St. Mary’s church at
Warwick. Still another glimpse of the Avon is seen in the opposite
direction, and all around the beauty of the undulating ground defies my
power of description ; but it requires no great gift of imagination to
arouse the inward conviction that for quiet home-like beauty the scene
before us will not be easily surpassed. Both “ the Squire ” and Mrs.
Smith- Ryland are ardent lovers of horticulture, who take great interest
in their gardens, and provide with a liberal hand the means for keeping
them in good condition, and in Mr. R. Jones they have an active and
intelligent gardener, whose heart is in his work, and who thoroughly
appreciates the liberality of his employers. — H. D.

APPLES FROM THE HIMALAYAS— HEAVY RAINFALL.

I SEND you two Apples for the favour of naming. I purchased Dr.
Hogg’s “ Fruit Manual,” and I have been trying to name my Apples by
it, but I have not been very successful. Perhaps English Apples vary a
little when grown here, as our climate on the Himalayas is different
from yours. Our elevation is 6500 feet. Last year we had no rain from
February to July. This year during the cold weather (from the end of
January to the beginning of March) 15 feet of snow fell. All the spring
and till the 18th June rain constantly fell. At this time the monsoon
commenced, and the fall was : —

June .. 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Inches.. 084 3'62 1-56 1-17 0-06 3-24 0-92 0-18 0-53 2-97 2'13 1-23 126

The two Apples I send have not had much sun to colour them. In
ordinary years they are much redder. Are they both the same 1 They
look so, but all on one tree have the stalks short and on the other the
stalks are long. The first tree is a compact grower and the other is a
straggling one. If you could name these for me it would help me in
working with Dr. Hogg’s book. — Angus Campbell.

[We regret very much that the two Apples arrived in a completely
rotten state ; in fact, a shapeless mass, with not a vestige of character
left to guide us in their identification. If the stalks of the fruit from
one tree are short, and the other long, and the trees are markedly
dissimilar in habit, the varieties may be regarded as distinct.

The chief external fixed characters to be noted in seeking for the
names of fruit are : — Stalks, short or long, stout or thin, inserted in deep
or shallow depressions ; eye, large or small, open or closed, with broad
or narrow segments, flat or erect, set in a deep or shallow, smooth or
plaited, basin. Yet we have many specimens sent to us without stalks,
and the eyes spoiled by pinning the numbers in them. The size, shape,
colour, and peculiar markings of the fruit have also to be observed, but
these are, so to say, moveable factors as influenced by climate or other
disturbing cause.

The internal characters to be noted are the position of the dried
stamens in the tube — namely, marginal, median, or basal ; the tube
itself as to form— conical or funnel shaped ; and the carpels or core.
Illustrations of all these distinctive marks are given in the “Fruit
Manual,” and they become clearer by study and comparison with
dissected fruits.

Our readers, and they are many, who are interested in the question
of rainfall, which they carefully ascertain, will note the Himalayan
downpour represented by 19'61 inches on thirteen days in June, no less
than 6'86 inches falling on two days, but it will be observed there was
no rain from February to July, but there was plenty of snow in March.
We must not consider our climate, with all its drawbacks, the worst in
the world.] (

154

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 17, 1893.

Batley and Disteict Chkysanthemum Society,

We have received the schedule of the forthcoming show of this
Society, to be held on November 11th. In the principal open class for
twenty-four Chrysanthemum blooms, twelve incurved and twelve
Japanese, in not less than nine varieties of each, a first prize of £5 is
offered, to which will be added the Society’s silver cup, value £6 Gs.,
also the National Chrysanthemum Society’s silver medal. Mr. Allen
Hall, 4, High Street, Batley, is the Secretary.

Honours foe a Chrysanthemum Raiser.

The readers of the Journal of Horticulture are, no doubt, aware
that on the Continent it is customary for the Governments of various
countries to recognise special service in horticulture by conferring
decorations upon those who are considered worthy. Many eminent
French, Belgian, and other nurserymen have been the recipients of the
Legion of Honour, the Order of Leopold, and the Merits Agricole,
without naming other orders less familiar here. Notwithstanding the
enormous advantages that must have accrued to French horticulture by
the labours of such Chrysanthemum specialists as MM. Diilaux, Louis
Lacroix, De Eeydellet, Dr. Audiguier, and M. Boucharlat, whose efforts
have so materially advanced the cause of Chrysanthemum culture
throughout Europe and America, we do not remember ever yet seeing
any announcement of their work being rewarded in this way. It is
pleasing, however, to record that M. Ernest Calvat, a raiser of quite
modern times, has just been appointed a Chevalier of the Order of the Merits
Agricole. M. Cal vat’s seedlings have been shown in England with
conspicuous success during the past two or three years, and are, it will
be remembered, chiefly characterised by their heavy massive blooms of
the Japanese incurved type. He is the only Frencfi exhibitor that has
successfully obtained first-class certificates of the National Chrysan¬
themum Society, and he is to be congratulated on having so soon won
■distinction in a way that is dear to the heart of every Frenchman.

Chrysanthemums in New Zealand.

A correspondent writing from Christchurch (N.Z.) reports that
the frozen blooms sent out to the Wellington Horticultural Society
by the N.C.S. have recently been exhibited at Christchurch also. He
adds that the lovers of Chrysanthemums have good reason to be proud of
the steady progress that is being made in the cultivation of that flower
in the colony. The localities where the leading growers are to be found
are Auckland, Napier, Wellington, Nelson, Christchurch, Timaru and
Dunedin, and besides these places there are other districts in which
attempts are being made to encourage and extend a taste for the culti¬
vation of this popular favourite.

In Christchurch alone there are several very able cultivators who
have demonstrated by the excellence of their exhibits that they
thoroughly understand the art of the big bloom method. Most of these,
however, are amateurs who, being employed in shops and offices during
the day, find an enjoyable recreation in growing the Queen of Autumn
as a hobby and relief from business cares. The trade generally have
not yet found time enough to devote themselves to this phase of Chrys¬
anthemum culture, but are contented to stage mixed exhibits at the
shows. Among new varieties Vi viand Morel, R. Kingston and W.
Tricker have excited most attention and been much admired. The
Christchurch Chrysanthemum Show, held May 11th and 12ch last, was
a remarkably gooi one in spite of the extremely unfavourable weather
that preceded it. In fact all over the Australasian colonies the weather
just previous to the Chrysanthemum season seems to have been
eiceptionably wet. In various parts of New Zealand there are growers
busily engaged in raising new seedlings, and we have no doubt but that
something will be heard of them here in EngUnd before very long.

American Chrysanthemum Society.

We have not hitherto been able to record much concerning the
progress of this Society, for its chief work seems to have been confined
to the registration of the names of new varieties. Founded about four
years ago, there has never to our knowledge been any show held under
its auspices, and we were beginning to wonder whether it had ceased to
exist. A friendly correspondent in the States has, however, just sent
us a little pamphlet, entitled “ Report of the Committee on Classification
of Chrysanthemums before the American Chrysanthemum Society,”
which shows very clearly that the Society is attempting a useful work.
The report is practically a catalogue of the varieties grown in the
States drawn up in a form that has no doubt been suggested by the
catalogue of the National Chrysanthemum Society of London. There
are select lists wholly devoted to American seedlings and importations,
together with an A.B.C. list at the end of the work. The catalogue is
neatly printed and contains thirty-seven pages, and does not state upon
it whether it is for sale or only for private circulation among the Society’s
members.

Yokohama Gardeners’ Association.

This Association, which is a purely commercial body, have issued an
illustrated catalogue this year of fruits, shrubs, and flowers. Among the

Coloured illustratioas are seven of new Chrysanthemums. They are
fairly well executed, but the types of flowers depicted do not differ in
any essential points from those already in cultivation here. — P.

Chrysanthemums — Bud Formation.

Judging from the notes which are weekly appearing in the Journal
Chrysanthemum growers and exhibitors are evidently much concerned
over the abnormally early appearance of crown buds. The cry seems to
come generally from growers in the south, and I feel certain that those
living in the midland or northern counties will this year have a great
advantage over their southern friends in the production of blooms for
exhibiting at the earlier shows. During ordinary seasons I find crown
buds show themselves fully a fortnight later in this district than they do
in Wilts or Hampshire, and during a season like the present the one
advantage thus gained is great indeed, for provided crown buds are taken
at the right time the flowers resulting therefrom generally win when
pitted against others from terminal buds, excepting the cases of special
varieties.

I have comparatively few buds appearing too early this year.
Violet Tomlin, Miss Haggas, Mons. Bahuant, Princess of Wales, Prince
Alfred, and Lord Wolseley from autumn-struck plants showed their first
crown buds about July 25th, while spring-struck plants are (August
12th) showing them now. The former were removed, the latter are being
taken. Several plants of the Queen family showed buds during the
first week in August ; they were, however, exceptions of the bulk of our
plants, the buds are now visible, and they could scarcely have appeared
at a more opportune time. Many of these plants were not struck till
the last week in January. They are now from 4 to 5 feet in height, the
stems being very thick and hard at the base. It seems to me that this
spring propagation is a point which will in the future receive great
attention, as its effect in delaying the formation of crown buds is a
matter of vital importance to Chrysanthemum growers, especially in the
case of early varieties when grown in the south of England. If those
who send notes on this subject to the Journal will record the difference
noted between autumn and spring-struck plants, their contributions will
be extremely valuable.

Turning to Japanese varieties. It is curious to note that Boule d’Or
showed buds about the usual time, during the first five days of August.
Etoile de Lyon from autumn-struck plants, July 22nd ; from cuttings
inserted at the end of January, buds showed from August 1st to 10th.
Mrs. F. Jameson, W. W. Coles, from autumn-struck plants, showed buds
July 29th. Viviand Morel, from cuttings put in at the end bf January,
showed buds about the same date, a few of these were taken, the others
removed. W. H. Lincoln, F. Davis, Sunflower, W. Tricker, and Mrs.
E . Beckett, from cuttings inserted at the same time, preceding variety
showed buds from the 1st to the 12th of August. Avalanche is the only
Japanese variety which, with me, produced the whole of the crown buds
too early to be taken. On plants of many other varieties not specially
mentioned crown buds are now daily becomins visible, and by the
20th of August I hope to have every bud taken. Unless we are favoured
with an exceptionally warm autumn I believe the buds taken on the
dates above given will produce the finest flowers for exhibiting during
the first three weeks of November. — H. Dunkin, Castle Gardens,
WarwicTi.

NOTES FROM BRISTOL.

(^Continued from page 123.')

Henbury Hill.

These gardens are in charge of Mr. Thomas Smith, one of the most
genial and practical of gardeners. Mr. Smith has acquired quite a
local fame for his Tuberous Begonias, which after years of careful
selection and cross-fertilisation is now equal to almost any of the best
trade collections. His ideas, however, do not bind him to any hard and
fast rule as to form and character in either plant or bloom. Equal
pleasure is derived from the drooping as from erect standing bloom, and
his standard of excellence do not lead him to discard all but smooth
petalled flowers. He is fond of form and variety.

In the stove are healthy plants in variety, and among them I noticed
some promising seedling Crotons. A batch of Adiantum farleyense,
occupying a moist corner, seems quite at home, and furnish a good
groundwork for displaying Calanthes in flower to the best advantage.
Orchids share a portion of this house, Cypripedium Sedeni being repre¬
sented by a good healthy plant which had just finished blooming.
Dendrobiums in variety, Phalasnopsis, one plant of P. amabilis having
a spike of flowers now open, with other species and varieties too nume¬
rous to mention. Of Freesias there were a good batch of very dwarf
plants, which will make a good display later on. Mignonette in the
same house is a partial failure, the first time for eighteen years, this
being attributable partly to a change in their autumn quarters, this and
other instances convincing Mr. Smith that plants have a partiality for
certain positions. Mr. Smith is an adept with Mignonette, one standard
sort which has been in cultivation now some few years being raised by
him.

Eucharis plants standing over a tank of warm water in another house
have flowered three or four times during the past twelve months, and at
one time these were so badly infested with mite that drastic measures
had to be adopted to stamp it out. The leaves were cut away and the
outer skin of the bulbs removed and thoroughly washed with warm soapy
water. Following this they were placed in the pots they now
occupy, and plunged at once into a hotbed, and from that time no mite

August ir, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

155

has beea seen, and their health and vigour now is all that could be
desired. In the fernery are some interesting plants, but so many of
the deciduous varieties being just now at their worst, a good estimate
of the summer beauties of the house could scarcely be formed. Some
plants of Lastrea lepida, Adiantum reniforme, Asplenium viviparum,
and Nephrolepis pectinatus struck me as being very distinct and useful
for decorative work, the latter particularly so when occupying small
pots. Bouvardias are splendidly grown at Henbury Hill, large bushes
in 8-inch pots still flowering freely, and have done so since the autumn.
Carnations are grown in goodly numbers, and a local seedling
named Cleeve Hill Beauty is much prized for its free blooming habit,
bright rosy coloured and shapely blooms, and good constitution. These
are planted out in summer, lifted and potted again in autumn, a system
that secures fine plants and abundance of blooms for cutting. The
popular Miss Jolliffe has a fitting companion in La Niege, a dwarf
growing white variety of much the same habit and size of flower.

Good Grapes have been grown for some years in these gardens, and
the promise of future crops is most assuring. One house is filled with a
single Vine of Black Hamburgh, which is many years old, but few young
ones could excel it in its large and finely coloured bunches annually
produced, or its healthy and vigorous growth. Peaches are thinly
trained, Mr. Smith believing in having just sufficient wood to secure a
good crop and no more, this rule being notable both indoors and out.
It would be better if such a practice was more common in gardens, for
then the trees would get the benefit of sunshine and air to mature the
current growth with greater certainty.

In the vegetable garden is a good breadth of winter Spinach in two
varieties Sutton’s New Long Standing and the ordinary prickly. The
superiority of the new one was clearly demonstrated by the stouter and
much larger leaves, and is less injured by frost. This, when better
known, should become a standard sort both for summer and winter
growth. Late Queen and Sutton’s Bouquet were among the hardiest of
the Broccoli, neither of these apparently having suffered by the late
severe weather. The early winter sorts were nearly all killed.

Malmains, Fhenchay.

This is the residence of Captain Belfield, and where plants, Ferns,
and Orchids are so well grown by the able gardener in charge, Mr. W.
Rye. The collection of some fifty plants of Todeas superba and
pellucida are such that can be found probably nowhere in the kingdom.
They are magnificent, and beyond all power of description. The heads
measure 5 or 6 feet in diameter, and many of the root stems stand
8 feet above the large pots in which they are grown. They were,
I believe, collected and brought home by Captain Belfield himself some
years since, and their present condition is such that must give him
immense satisfaction. Every plant is in the best of health, yet during
the late severe weather frost enveloped their fronds in ice on many
occasions, and no attempt is made to prevent such an occurrence ; one
half of the house, which was added some few years since, having no hot-
water pipes, and a 3-inch flow and return is insufficient to keep out
frost in the older division of the house. During the summer the roof
is heavily shaded, and the plants receive a syringing once or twice a
day, so that the fronds are kept uniformly moist. Very rarely is water
needed at the roots, or rather applied to the soil, the dense moisture
prevailing at all times sustain them perfectly.

In the tall Palm and Fern house adjoining are many fine specimens,
some of these, too, like the Todeas, having been brought home by
Capt. Belfield. Cyathea dealbata stands some 14 feet in height.
Cyathea medullaris and Alsophila excelsa, too, are stately specimens.
Areca sapida is a truly grand plant, reaching, I should say, 18 feet in
height. The Date Palm, Phoenix dactylifera, Chamserops excelsa, and
Kentia Fosteriana adding to the tropical forest-like aspect of this noble
structure. Some tall Tree Fern stems are clothed with the creeping
rhizomes of the Davallia canariense, which in summer must have a pretty
effect. In the stoves are many fine specimens of Anthuriume Andreanum,
Ferierense, and crystallinum, Crotons, Stephanotis, Allamanda nobilis,
a fine plant ; Clerodendron Balfourianum, Bougainvillea glabra, and
Eucharis. These last named do uncommonly well, and are seldom out
of bloom. They are growing in wide but somewhat shallow pots, which
seem to suit them admirably, as do also the house and treatment they
receive.

Orchids are grown in large numbers and variety, and is another
feature of these gardens. Cymbidium arvense had several spikes of its
sweetly scented and curiously coloured spikes. Epidendrum fragrans,
too, was furnished with some spikes of their highly interesting and
pretty flowers. Nepenthes Mastersiana and Hookeriana were growing
well in suspended baskets, and had several of their quaint pitchers of
large size. Dendrobium speciosum was just opening its pretty yellow
and spotted flowers on semi-drooping spikes. This is a noble plant,
which, when in full bloom, must be very striking. D. Pierardi will be
later on a sheet of blossom, several strong plants being suspended from
the roof. Calanthe Veitchi has been, and still are, remarkably fine ;
and Cypripedium insigne and Maulei fill several large pans. A strong
piece of Cypripedium laevigatum was noticeable, as also was another
healthy one of C. porphyreum. Coelogynes are numerous and well
furnished with plenty of strong flower spikes. Cattleya citrina on
blocks does particularly well. C. Mendelli, C. Mossiae, Laelia anceps,
and L. purpurata, Odontoglossums grande, citrosmum, and C. roseum,
Vandas, Angraecum sesquipedale, Aerides, Brassia verrucosa, and hosts of
others furnish a constant supply of bloom in varying quantities at all
times.

Grapes and Peaches are well grown, the latter gaining the leading
prizes at local shows, which is the best proof of the skilled attention
given. Outdoor fruits are limited in extent, and the same may be said
also of vegetables, but suflScient are grown to meet the demands of the
house. The place generally reflects much credit on Capt. Belfield, who
is a keen horticulturist, and on his gardener for its excellent keep¬
ing.— W. S.

BARLERIAS.

A Scottish correspondent wishes to know something about
Barlerias, which he has not seen mentioned in the Journal. They have
all the same been mentioned. Tney are tropical shrubs, B, Gibsoni
being perhaps one of the most useful for decorative purposes. The
figure shows a flower spray. It is a neat branching shrub, attaining a
height of several feet ; but handsome well furnished plants some 2 or
more feet high may be grown from cuttings in a single season ; and as

these not only bloom freer than old plants, but produce the finest
flowers, there is no advantage in keeping the old ones. The leaves are
upwards of 3 inches long, ovate-lanceolate and acuminate, deep green
above, glaucous below, and somewhat coriaceous in texture. Flowers
funnel-shaped, produced in terminal and axillary spikes near the ends
of the branches ; lobes spreading, colour pale purple, the two upper lobes
having a dark purple blotch in the centre. It flowers in midwinter.
Native of Central India.

PROPORTIONAL PRIZEGIVINO.

Having for a long time been contending, and, I think, almost alone,
in favour of the principle of awarding prizes at flower shows in pro¬
portion to the respective merits of the selected exhibits, I took very
much interest in the class, the first, I think, of its kind, set apart at the
recent Carshalton Show, in which the principle of proportional prize¬
giving was adopted. Now I find from your report of the particular
class — nine kinds of vegetables — that the difference between the first
and fourth of the selected entries was covered by only four points,
whilst the first was so near to the second as to be only half a point
better, and the third was but one point below the second. Practically
the difference of the four lots were about 1, 2, 3, and 4 per cent., mere

166

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 17, 1893.

trifles indeed. But then these trivial differences in merit are really
great ones when the old system of prizegiving is practised. Here was
a sum of £5 set apart for the class to he divided into four prizes.
Ordinarily the prizes would have been 403,, SOs., 20s., and lOs, ; the
second prize being 25 per cent, less than the first, the third prize 33i
less than the second, the fourth 50 per cent, less than the third, and
75 per cent, less than the first. Now, as the points of the selected four
when most carefully judged stood at 541^, 54, 53, and 51^. can anyone
assert with any degree of justice that under the ordinary method of
giving prizes the merits of these four collections would have been fairly
dealt with ? It would be too absurd to say so. I should very much like
to learn how the £5 were ultimately apportioned ; but having regard
to relative merits, as shown by the pointing, I make the amounts to be —
first, 28s. ; second, 27s. ; third, 25s. ; and fourth, 203. — A. Dean.

[Other prizes were awarded for collections in which there was a
greater falling off in points, but the particulars given below were not
previously obtained. At the first pointing two of the collections were
equal, and it was only on a second rigid examination that a slight
difference could be discovered. The system is a just one, but its general
adoption would necessitate an increase in the number of judges at
most, if not all, shows.] _ _

Collections of Vegetables.

£

S.

d.

1st

Prize

. 54i points .

0

18

10

2nd

. 54 .

0

18

8

3rd

... ... 53J ,,

0

18

6

4th

. 5U „ .

0

17

10

6 th

. 45 „ .

0

15

7

0th

>?

801

••• JJ

0

10

7

£5

0

0

— G. W. Cummins.

WOODHATCH, REIGATE.

Being at South Park, Reigate, the other day, and close to the
beautiful place of the Treasurer of the Gardeners’ Orphan Fund, Mr.
T. B. Haywood, I gladly availed myself of a kind invitation from Mr.
Salter, the esteemed gardener, and a spare couple of hours, to visit these
grounds. Their great feature to me is found in the remarkable neatness,
the very high order of keeping, to use a common term, found in every
direction. I think I have never seen a tidier garden, or one in which
order so thoroughly prevails. That may to some extent be due to
abundance of help. 1 do not know, but certainly very much also is due
to the excellent training in these elements of garden excellence Mr.
Salter has had. I do not propose to outline or describe the place except
to say that a large portion of it is very close home and compact,
especially so is that the case with the glass department. But such parts
as vegetables, Potatoes, and hardy fruit are in different places, and some
of them remote. Even the Roses, of which there are many grown, are
close to the farm, some distance from the house, but then it has
been needful to find for them there a soil that is suitable for their
requirements.

Two- special kinds of plants are grown at Woodhatch in great
quantities. These are Orchids and Chrysanthemums, both wonderfully
well done. Mr. Salter took me through house after house, each devoted
to Dendrobiums, Odontoglossums, Cattleyas, and so on in their respec¬
tive sections, all in the most admirable condition, clean beyond
description, and the plants in perfect health. Perhaps it is not at all
difficult to manage Orchids well when you have plenty of good houses
and assistance, but I have seen many very much bungle at it all the
same, and have been very glad to get away from them. It is far
different at Woodhatch, where, whilst just now few of the plants are
blooming, it is a rich treat to look through the houses, but in the spring
it must be indeed a delight. Then out in the open there is a wondrous
lot of Chrysanthemums. Mr. Salter has a thousand plants of many
sorts in every section, and it is not possible to withhold a warm
tribute of praise for their splendid condition. The Reigate district
has considerable fame for the production of high class Chrysanthemums,
due to some extent perhaps to the excellent locality, but chiefly, of
course, to skill attained through frequent severe competition at local
shows : and even Woodhatch finds formidable competitors at Great
Doods, where Mr. Brown practises so well, and in Messrs. Riches, Bailey,
Hayter, and others. How like the shepherd who so well indicates the
members of his flock by their faces does Mr. Salter point out the
Morels, the Smiths, the Queens, the Avalanches or Sunflowers and
numbers of others by their leaves alone. Every one is known, and a
beautiful study does this class of plant knowledge present. There are
no insects on the plants, and no rustiness about leaf or pot. It would
not be easy to detect that the plants had been watered, and but that
they were properly moist, as all over the area on which they stand,
a fine rake is run and footsteps obliterated after each watering.

In one long lean-to house there is a brilliant lot of double and single
Begonias, and in another similar house a fine collection of bush Fuchsias.
On the back wall ot both houses is a fine lot of Peaches and Nectarines,
doing capitally. There is in one of the double Begonias a sort of
departure from the normal type, as the flowers have much the shape
and form of a Cactus Dahlia. Anything which looks like a break from
the big rotund type of flowers may, well be regarded with interest. The
chief Tomato grown here is Hepper’s Goliath, a very old variety

relatively, but at Woodhatch it is a truly enormous cropper. The fruits
of the largest are rather sutured, the smaller ones of excellent form, but
the crop could not be excelled. The plants, trained up under a sloping
roof, are planted in a somewhat narrow shallow bed of soil, whilst
excess of root room seems conducive to coarse growth and disease,
certainly the finest fruit crops are got from very limited soil beds.
The newer forms of the now popular Streptocarpus are grown here in
great quantity. Mr. Salter has been intercrossing to secure, and with
much success, finer blooms. Some, too, are of rich hues of colour, whilst
now so beautiful it is very obvious that there is still great room for the
production of greater variation in colour of the flowers.

A lovely Antirrhinum, yellow and red, a wonderful bloomer, is a
striking feature in the open borders. All kinds of hardy plants are
well grown, and indeed they are greatly encouraged here, where so
much of glass does not by any means produce insensibility to the
beauties of hardy outdoor plants. The crop on Apple, Pear, and other
fruit trees is a heavy one, but tomtits and wasps are giving great
trouble. The district is one essentially favourable to fruit production,
but it is evident that where there is practical knowledge of tree
requirements, by far the best results are secured. — A. D.

HORTICULTURAL SHOWS.

LEICESTER.

The annual Show was again held in the Abbey Park on the 8th inst.>
and as usual attracted an enormous crowd of people. Upwards of
12,000 generally attend, and this year that number must have been
much exceeded. Horticulture is encouraged very much by the Corpo¬
ration, especially among the working classes. One striking evidence of
this may be seen in the large number of allotment gardens close to
the town. Another is the beautiful Park where the Show is held yearly,
the profits of which are devoted to its maintenance ; and not the least
of all is the gratifying sight of the garden produce in the cottagers’
tent, many of whom would stand a good chance in the professionals’
class. The fiower beds and park generally looked remarkably well, but
one could easily see Mr. Burn has had some hard work this hot, dry
season, the whole of the soil being mud from the river, which is not a
good staple for a dry season like the present.

The groups of plants were arranged in the centre of the new show
house, a recent addition to the park, the cost of which was defrayed by
the flower shows, and amounted to £700. This is a famous place for
Chrysanthemums in the winter, of which a fine lot were in preparation
near at hand, and looked very promising. The first prize for a group of
plants was awarded to Mr. J. Smith, gardener to Mr. S. Bennett, who
had clean well-grown examples of Crotons. Dracasnas, Alocasias, and
Chrysanthemums, lightened by good plants of Eulalia japonica variegata.
Second, Mr. G. Barry, gardener to Mr. H. Snow, whose group was rather
heavier in appearance. Third, Mr. W. Calvert, gardener to Mr. G.
Oliver, the arrangement being better than No. 2, but the plants not so
fresh. Zonal Pelargoniums lined the sides of this house in conjunction
with Begonias and other plants, making an effective display. A novelty
in the shape of three bouquets immersed in water under glass shades
attracted attention, as exhibited by Mr. H. Smith. The specimen stove
and greenhouse plants were arranged in an adjoining house. Mr, W. S.
Bolton, gardener to VV. Billson, Esq., was awarded the first prize for
good specimens, including Allamanda Hendersoni, Plumbago capensis,
Bougainvillea glabra, and others. Second, Mr. W. Calvert. For six
exotic Ferns Mr. J. Smith was first, showing a fine Adiantum farleyense,
Davallia canariensis, D. Mooreana. among other good specimens.

The fruit classes were keenly contested. The first prize for a
collection of eight dishes was won by Mr. Goodacre, gardener to the
Earl of Harrington, Elvaston Castle. The fruit was good and well
staged. Black Hamburgh Grapes were fine in colour and bunch,
Muscat of Alexandria good, as was the Madresfield Court. An excellent
Queen Pine, Best of All Melon, Nectarines, Peaches, and Apricots com¬
pleted the collection. Second, Mr. Mclndoe, who showed fine fruit,
but not so fresh in appearance. His collection contained fine bunches
of Black Hamburgh Grapes, a large bunch of Bananas, and very fine
Pitmaston Duchess Pears. Third, Mr. J. Read, Bret by Park. In the
collection of four dishes there was a very strong competition. Mr.
Goodacre was again placed first, showing very fine Muscat Hamburgh
Grapes, a Melon, Nectarines, and Peaches. Second, Mr. W. H. Divers,
who lost a few points with Grapes, but was much in advance with
Peaches and Nectarines. Third, Mr. McVinish. Fourth, Mr. Mclndoe.

Grapes, Muscat of Alexandria, first, Mr. McVinish, good bunches,
fairly coloured ; second, Mr. Mclndoe. For any other white Grape,
Mr. Reed was first, showing Cannon Hall, good in bunch and berry, but
deficient in colour. Black Hamburghs, first, Mr. McVinish, good in all
points ; second, Mr. J. Goodacre, with good bunches, not so perfect in
colour. For any other black, Mr. W. Messenger was a good first with
Gros Maroc, grand berries and well coloured ; second, Mr. W. G. Adams.
Peaches, first, Mr. W. H. Divers with Crimson Galande, fine in size and
colour ; second, Mr. Mclndoe ; third, Mr. McVinish. Nectarines, first,
Mr. W. H. Divers with a fine dish of Dryden ; second, Mr. J. H.
Goodixcre ; third, Mr. J. Mclndoe. Apples were a large class, and some
very fine examples were shown ; small fruits and Plums also brought a
large number of entries.

There was strong competition in the open class for a collection of
twelve kinds of vegetables. No less than nine lots were staged, and all
good. Mr. Garraway, Bath, took first with a superb collection coitaining

August 17, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

167

Conference Tomatoes, Telegraph Cucumbers, Eclipse Cauliflower, White
Spanish Onion, James’ Intermediate Carrot, White PlumeCelery, Garra-
way’s Surprise Runner Beans, a splendid dish. Telephone Peas, Snowdrop
and Masterpiece Potatoes, White Stone Turnip, Pen-y-Byd Marrow, the
whole neatly setup with Parsley and coloured Carrot leaves. Mr. McVinish
was second, Mr. R. Shaw third. The single dishes of vegetables were
strongly contested in most instances, the quality of the exhibits being
remarkably good for the season.

A large number of Roses were staged. In the class for thirty-six
blooms Messrs. Cocker won the first prize with highly coloured flowers ;
second, Messrs. Croll, Dundee ; third, Messrs. Harkness & Son, Bedale.
With twenty-four varieties the prizes went to the same exhibitors in
the same order. For twelve of one variety Messrs. Cooker were first
with Horace Vernet, Messrs. Harness second with Mrs. J. Laing.
Wreaths and bouquets made a very interesting show, Messrs. Perkins
taking the chief prizes, Mr. Woodcock also securing a good share.

Among exhibits not for competition, Messrs. Laing of Forest Hill
staged a fine group of new and interesting plants, and very fine Begonias.
A new Carnation attracted much attention in this collection. It is
called Stanste..d Surprise, and was awarded a first-class certificate.
Saxifraga sarmentosa variegata, Sibthorpia variegata. Begonia Arthur
Malet, Campylobotrys Ghiesbrieghti variegata were among the most
noticeable plants in this group, which was awarded a gold medal.
Messrs. Williams of Holloway had a fine group of plants, which also
received a gold medal, and contained many choice Orchids and orna¬
mental foliage plants, among which Cattleya Dowiana, Cypripedium
Morgan*, Sarracenia purpurea, Sonerilas, Crotons, and Nepenthes were
especially noticeable, the whole forming a very interesting exhibit.

Messrs. Cuthbertson of Rothesay staged a splendid collection of
hardy herbaceous cut flowers, which worthily received a silver-gilt
medal at the hands of the judges, the same firm also taking first prize
for twelve varieties of herbaceous flowers. Mr. Forbes of Hawick
sent six stands of border Carnations, many of the varieties being new,
and all of them were very much admired ; a silver medal was awarded.
Mr. W. Barron showed an interesting and instructive collection of cut
shoots from hardy ornamental trees and shrubs, and Mr. J. Crawford of
Coddington Hall Gardens sent a fine collection of hardy fruits.

A new class, open to market growers only, brought some capital
tables of useful plants, just the sort to encourage for a town like
Leicester, as useful for window and room decoration. The cottagers’
exhibits made a good show in themseli'es, especially in vegetables, and
it is very gratifying to see such a great interest taken in horticulture by
the people of Leicester.

FRUIT AND VEGETABLES AT THE TAUNTON SHOW.

The show of fruit on the 10th inst. was even better in some respects
than usual, this being strong commendation. Six persons competed with
a collection of eight varieties, the first prize going to Mr. W. Iggulden,
gardener to the Earl of Cork, Marston House, Frome, who had very well
finished stands of three bunehes of Muscat of Alexandria and Madresfield
Court Grapes, a good Hero of Lockinge Melon, Bellegarde Peaches, Pine¬
apple Nectarines, Moor Park Apricots, Williams’ Bon Chretien Pears, and
Jefferson Plums, all in excellent condition. Mr. J. Lloyd, gardener to
Vincent Stuckey, Esq., Langport, was a very close second, the Black
Hamburgh and Muscat of Alexandria Grapes, seedling Melon, and
Pineapple Nectarines in this collection being very good. Mr. A. Cross¬
man, gardener to J. Brutton, Esq., Yeovil, was third, his front dishes
being remarkably good. Mr. Iggulden was also first with four dishes,
having well-coloured Madresfield Court Grape, Golden Gem Melon,
Bellegarde Peaches, and Elruge Nectarines. Mr. Lloyd was again
second, and Mr. Crossman third, two other good collections being
shown.

Mr. Iggulden was well first in the class for Black Hamburgh Grapes,
the only fault being smallness of berries. Mr. W. Crossman, gardener
to Captain Dick, was second, and Mr. D. Hobby, gardener to Sir J. Pon-
sonby Fane, third. In the any other black class Mr. H. W. Ward,
gardener to the Earl of Radnor, was first with Madresfield Court in
good eondition ; Mr. Iggulden being a close second with the same variety,
and Mr. Lloyd third. The best Muscat of Alexandria were shown by
Mr. Iggulden, Mr. Lloyd being a good second, and Mr. Ward third.
With any other white variety Mr. F. Crossman took the lead with very
good Buckland Sweetwater, Mr. Ward following very closely with the
same variety, the third prize going to Mr. A. Crossman.

Melons were not numerously shown. The Rev. W. S. Cotter,
Yeovil, was first with a very good fruit of Hero of Lockinge, Mr.
Iggulden following with Golden Gem at its best, Mr. Ward being third.
The best dish of Peaches, apparently Crawford’s Exquisite, was shown
by Mr. J. Reed, gardener to F. J. L. Parsons, Esq. ; Mr. S. Kidley,
gardener to W. S. Hall, Esq., being a good second. Very fine indeed
were the fruits of Pineapple that gained Mr. A. Crossman the first prize
for Nectarines, Mr. J. Webber, gardener to G. F. Luttrell, Esq., being
a good second with the same variety. Messrs. Webber and Iggulden
were the prizewinners with Apricots, and with Pears Messrs. D. Hobby
and S. Tottle were successful. Messrs. Iggulden, W. Greedy, W. Utter-
mere, T. Every, Smith, F. Crossman, and Webber were also prizewinners
in other fruit classes.

Vegetables. — Taunton shows are always noted for the quantity and
excellence of the vegetables shown, but on this occasion they were more
plentiful than usual, and the quality evidently had not been impaired
by the dryness and heat of the summer — cottagers, as well as private
gardeners, staging grand produce. The best collection of eight varieties

was shown by Mr. T. Wilkins, gardener to Lady Ivor Guest, Henstride,
who had very fine Autumn Giant Cauliflowers, Giant White Celery,
Excelsior Onions, Intermediate Carrots, Ponderosa Tomatoes, Satis¬
faction Potatoes, Ne Plus Ultra Runner Beans, and Autocrat Peas. Mr.

H. Copp, gardener to W. E. Erie Drax, Sherborne, was a very close
second, and Mr. T. Evry, Bath, third. Mr. Copp was first in the class for
a collection of vegetables, the prizes for which were provided by Messrs.
Jarman & Co., Chard, Mr. Wilkins being second, and Mr. A. Crossman
third. Mr. Copp also took the first of the prizes provided by Messrs.
Sutton & Sons, Mr. Mitchell, gardener to G. T. C. Grove, Esq., being a
good second, and Mr. A. Crossman third. Mr. Garraway, Bath, took the
first of Messrs. Webb & Sons’ prizes, Mr. H. F. Manley being second.
Classes were also provided for all kinds of vegetables, the competition
being remarkably keen throughout.

[The report of the plants and flowers has not reached us. It has
been presumably lost in the post.]

A GOOSEBERRY SHOW.

The annual Gooseberry Show was held at the Sitwell Arms, Wall
Street, Ripley, on Saturday last. The berries were weighed by
Mr. Joseph Eyre, of Codnor. Mr. James Taylor acted as Secretary.
The Show was a complete success, and some magnificent fruit was
exhibited. The following is a list of the prizetakers : —

PBEMIEB.

John Barlow, Bobby .

STEWART PRIZE.

J. Langton, Lord Derby .

G. Walters, Leveller .

C. Vernon, Great Bobby .

J. Grainger, Transparent ...

J. Wathey, Bobby .

J. Taylor, Ranger .

I. Smith, British Oak .

J. Clee, Careless .

J. Caulton, Dr. Morley .

G. Thorpe, Thatcher .

J. Hamilton, Jerry .

T. Nicholson, Antagonist .

G. Lowe, Drill .

T. Machin, Diadem .

SECOND RUN.

C. Vernon, Ringer .

G. Walters, Bobby .

J. Grainger, Lord Derby .

J. Langton, Bobby .

J. Wathey, Bobby .

G. Thorpe, Transparent .

J. Gaulton, Bobby .

J. Taylor, Bobby

G. Lowe, Bobby .

J. Barlow, Bobby .

I. Smith, Antagonist .

T. Machin, Transparent .

J. Clee, Dan’s Mistake .

J. Whysall, Dan’s Mistake .

J. Hambleton, High Sheriff

T. Machin, Lizzie .

BEST BEATEN BERRY.

J. Langton, Bobby .

TWINS.

J, Langton, Stockwell .

J. Taylor, Lady Orton .

J. Barlow, Bobby .

dwta.

grs

28

1

26

1

23

18

20

12

26

0

25

12

21

4

18

23

17

0

21

23

15

0

16

18

18

15

16

0

16

0

25

11

24

9

24

0

23

17

23

8

22

8

23

8

22

3

21

21

22

22

20

20

19

5

20

18

17

0

15

0

13

1

24

17

36

5

32

9

27

4

HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

Peaches and Nectarines. — The full exposure of the fruits to the
light is essential. Leaves unduly shading the fruit draw on one side, so
that the latter may receive every benefit possible from the admittance
of light, air, and sunshine. Without these colouring of the fruit is
imperfect, the proper flavour is not developed, and the whole finish
unsatisfactory. Earwigs are liable to attaek ripening fruits. Trapping
with the hollowstems of bean stalks or narrow crumpled lengths of brown
paper are good methods of reducing their numbers, if each morning the
traps are examined, and the insects caught in them blown out and
destroyed. Protect the fruit from birds by banging nets in front of the
trees. They might be arranged at the base so as to catch any falling
fruits, but it is desirable to gather ripe specimens before they detach
themselves from the trees, choosing a period when they are perfectly
dry.

Xate Peacbes. — Continue to syringe the foliage of trees with the
fruit still green.. Rapid evaporation from the foliage tends to exhaust

168

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ August 17, 1993,

the nourishment available. Refreshment given regularly with a syringe
or garden engine is conducive to cleanliness and a prevention of red
spider, also an aid to the steady development of the fruit. Adequate
root moisture, too, must not be overlooked, giving stimulating assistance
only up to the period of the first signs of fruit showing colour, not after,
clear water only being used during ripening if moisture is needed.

Ripening: Peach and Wectarlne Wood. — Nothing superfluous
should be allowed to remain on the trees which will tend to retard the
necessary hardening of the future bearing shoots. The earliest trees
from which fruit has been gathered must have the bearing shoots cut out
at once, training in the succession shoots at suitable distances apart.
Remove any that are likely to crowd the rest. Attend diligently to the
cleanliness of the trees, red spider being perhaps the most insidious pest
that attacks the leaves at this period of the year. Frequent syringings
with soapsuds or soap dissolved in water at the rate of 2 ozs. to the gallon
will destroy the pests and prevent their reappearance if regularly applied,
Gishurst compound and other insecticides may be used instead if pre¬
ferred. Such faith, however, is placed in the efficacy of the various
insecticides to destroy pests which prey upon trees that insects are
allowed to attain a strong foothold before means are applied to destroy
them. In the case of red spider this is a very dangerous plan, as the
mischief they are able to inflict upon the foliage of Peach and other trees
is irreparable. It is, therefore, important to make war with red spider
upon its first appearance. Serious attacks of this insect cause premature
ripening of the wood, the leaves as a result falling considerably earlier
than they should instead of being retained to the very latest period to
assist in feeding and plumping the buds. Clear water, forcibly applied
to reach the under as well as the upper surfaces of the leaves, is a
ready means of maintaining the trees in health, attention also being
paid to moistening the borders. Dryness at the roots is very frequently
the cause of attacks of red spider in the first instance.

Treatment of Gross Growing: and Weakly Trees. — Trees that
are rather weak in growth and lack vigour may be improved by apply¬
ing stimulants to the roots judiciously, while those growing too strongly
must be gradually checked by withholding water and exposing every
shoot fully to sunshine and air. In some cases root-pruning will be
necessary shortly, or lifting and replanting, the latter method being the
best means of regulating the growth in young trees.

Early Apples and Pears. — Early Apples, such as the Red
Astrachan, Joaneting, Devonshire Quarrenden, Irish Peach, and Mr.
Gladstone, will as they ripen require gathering. Jargonelle Pears are
unusually fine in many districts this year, especially where the fruits
have been thinned. The reduction to two or three on a spur has resulted
in examples being developed above the average size, but where
clusters of more have been left the individual fruits are as a rule
under the average size. The fitness of fruit for gathering is known
generally by the footstalks parting readily from the spurs, or when
sound fruits begin to fall of their own accord. A cool period of the
day, when the fruit is dry, is the best time for gathering, exercising
special care in the handling of choice specimens, as well as in select¬
ing the precise time for securing fruit in the best condition. Some,
if gathered too soon, are watery ; others, allowed to hang too long,
being mealy, a musky disagreeable flavour being apparent, which is not
appreciated. Remove all fruit bored by maggots, whether ready for
gathering or not.

Removing: Dead Wood from Fruit Trees. — The present is an
opportune time for cutting out dead shoots, twigs, or branches in all
forms of fruit trees. Such wood can now be easily distinguished, and
in the case of wall trees it often appears very conspicuous, as evidenced
by dying branches of Plums, Apricots, and Cherries. Remove them at
once back to their point of origin, training in their place the healthy
adjoining branches,

IHorello Cberrles. — Thin out the wood in crowded trees to admit
plenty of light and air to the shoots retained. It is not necessary to tie
shoots closely in at present, that is securing them their full length to
the wall or trellis. The extremities will ripen better by being allowed
to hang free, the lower parts being fully secured. Ripe fruit required
to hang protect with netting.

FRUIT FORCING.

Peaches and RTectarlnes. — Earliest Forced Houses. — The leaves
are now beginning to fail, and this takes place far more gradually with
early forced trees than later in the season. The trees being exposed as
advised by the removal of the roof lights, there will not be need to assist
their falling, as the wind will do it most eilectually. Allow them to
remain until they part from the trees readily, clearing them away as
they fall. Avoid a dry condition of the border, as this may cause the
blossom buds to drop when they should be swelling. Excessive moisture
at the roots is frequently the cause of premature growth, which should
be guarded against, but it is not desirable to replace the roof lights
unless the weather is excessively wet. Early forced trees require little
pruning, for they do not make strong growth, and have a larger per¬
centage of single blossom buds than those started in spring under more
favourble conditions, hence in pruning it is not so desirable to cut back
the bearing wood unless of excessive length, and in that case it must be
to a wood bud, to insure growth for attracting sap to the fruits. Very
little pruning will be needed provided disbudding has been properly
attended to and no more shoots laid in than are necessary to take the
place of the current year’s bearing shoots and to renew worn-out growths,
as \^11 as to provide for the proper extension of the trees.

Early forced trees are seldom too vigorous after they have been

subjected to the process a few years, but generally become so enfeebled
as to need the removal of the weak growths, which, though plentifully
furnished with fruit buds, are undesirable from their affording smaller
fruit than is furnished by the better fed and more vigorous growths.
Such trees should have the old soil carefully removed from amongst the
roots, and fresh turfy loam, to which has been added a bushel of wood
ashes to a cartload, supplied, firming it well, and giving a good watering.
Lift any trees that grow too vigorously, shorten the long and bare roots,
and lay the more fibrous ones nearer the surface, making the soil
firm. These operations require to be performed as soon as the leaves
are mature, and before they fall from the trees, yet not before they give
indications of doing so.

Succession Houses. — As the trees are cleared of fruit cut out all the
current year’s bearing wood, not being extensions, and thin all the
growths where too crowded. Syringe as is necessary to keep down red
spider, or promptly apply an insecticide. Keeping the borders duly
supplied with water or liquid manure will greatly assist weakly trees.
Ventilate the houses to the fullest extent unless the wood is not ripen¬
ing, in which case ventilating freely at night and keeping the house
rather close in the daytime ripening will be induced. Any young trees
that are too vigorous should have a trench taken out about one-third the
height of the tree from the stem and the roots cut, filling the trench
again firmly.

Late Houses. — The wood should be laid in thinner than is customary
with trees in earlier houses, so as to secure the thorough solidification
of the growths ; then the buds will become perfect, and matter be
stored in the adjacent wood for the support of the blossoms and embryo
fruit in the coming season. As gross growths tend to impoverish the
weaker by drawing to them an undue amount of sap, and prevent an
equal distribution of vigour, they must be stopped, or preferably
removed altogether. Keep the trees free from red spider by forcible
syringings until the fruit gives indications of ripening. The borders
should be well supplied with water or liquid manure, and be mulched
about an inch thick with short partially decayed manure.

Mailing New Borders. — If any planting of trees in new houses, or
replacing of old by young trees is contemplated, material for making
the border should be procured, so that the work may be executed with
despatch, and the borders made so as to have time to settle somewhat
before the trees are planted. Strong turfy loam, with enough small
stones and grit to allow water to percolate through it, is the best, espe¬
cially that off calcareous formations. The loam should be strong rather
than light. Strong clay soils are not good unless they contain a large
per-centage of small stones and grit. Where the soil lacks calcareous
matter, a goodly admixture of lime rubbish to heavy and of clayey marl
to light loams will improve them.

New borders must have efficient drainage. If the bottom of the
border is unfavourable it should be concreted 6 inches thick, gravel,
coarse and fine together, with a third of lime made into a mortar-like
mass, put in so as to slope to a drain of 3-inch tiles, having a proper fall
and outlet. When the concrete has hardened 9 to 12 inches of drainage
should be provided, placing the roughest at the bottom and the finest at
the top. Cover the drainage with turves grass side downwards, and
if a layer 3 inches thick of old mortar rubbish or chalk broken to the
size of road metal is added, the roots will seldom pass through this
into the strata beneath. Instead of making the border all at once a
4 feet width is ample for a couple of years, and the openings in the front
wall to let the roots out should be bricked up so as to insure the occupa¬
tion of the inside border before they pass into the outside. Loose bricks
or dry walls will do for holding up the soil of the borders. The border
need not exceed 30 inches and should not be less than 24 inches deep.
The compost should be neither wet nor dry, and be put together firmly.
The border ought to be made ready for planting by the end of
September.

In respect of varieties and structures it is beat to have few of the
first and the latter of moderate size, so that those which ripen about
the same time c?n be grown together. The structures for early forcing
should face south, lean-to’s or three-quarter span-roofed houses being
much the best if well ventilated and efficiently heated. For very early
forcing Alexander, Early Louise, and Waterloo Peaches, with Advance
and Early Rivers Nectarines are suitable. The Peach first named is
somewhat liable to cast its buds, chiefly from over-maturity, as the buds
on the spurs or stopped shoots are far less prone to be cast than those on
the first made wood. For second early houses Hale’s Early Alfred and
A Bee Peaches ; Nectarines, Darwin, Goldoni, and Lord Napier ; for
succession, Stirling Castle and Royal George Peaches, the two best
forcing varieties with BIruge and Dryden Nectarines, unsurpassed for
cropping and quality. These cannot well be forced to ripen before the
end of May or early in June, then they carry plenty of colour. For
midseason houses, Dr. Hogg, Grosse Mignonne, Goshawk, Dymond,
Noblesse, Bellegarde, and Belle Beauce Peaches ; Nectarines, Improved
Downton, Stanwick Elruge, Rivers’ Orange, and Pineapple. Late
houses, Barrington, Exquisite, Princess of Wales, Gladstone, Saa Eagle,
Walburton Admirable, and Golden Eagle Peaches. Nectarines, Newton,
Milton, Spencer, and Victoria.

For an unheated house or wall case — Waterloo or Early Louise,
Hale’s Early or A Bee, Early Alfred or Rivers’ Early York, Dagmar or
Dr. Hogg, Crimson Galande or Magdala, Royal George or Grosse
Mignonne, Belle Beauce or Goshawk, Dymond or Noblesse, Bellegarde
or Barrington, Gladstone or Princess of Wales, Walburton Admirable or
Lady Palmerston, Sea Eagle or Golden Eagle. Nectarines to succeed
each other in an unheated house — Early Rivers, Lord Napier, Darwin,

August ir, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

159

Elruge, Byron, Dryden, Violette HMive, Pineapple, Spencer, Newton,
Milton, and Victoria.

Trees of Peaches and Nectarines for planting in houses are best after
two or three, or even four or more years trained to walls or in cool
houses, and they transplant with complete success provided they have
been duly lifted, so as to move with abundance of fibrous roots. Failing
these an early selection should be made of trees in nurseries, choosing
the best furnished, most evenly balanced, clean and healthy, and with
medium sized short-jointed wood. If carefully lifted when the wood
becomes firm and the leaves are parting from the trees and planted
without delay, they will experience little check, and, being bearing
trees, some fruit may be taken the first year.

Cucumbers. — Houses that are to be used for supplying fruit at
Christmas — the plants having been raised from a sowing made about the
10th of the month — should now be cleared, so that the needful cleaning,
repairs, or painting may be done thoroughly before the house is wanted.
Pot the plants as they require it, growing them in full light, and
support them with sticks. They should be grown without stopping,
rubbing off side shoots as they appear to the height of the trellis.

The autumn fruiting plants should be encouraged to make strong
growth by earthing betimes, not making large additions, but enough
each time to cover the protruding roots, taking care to have the soil
warm and moist. Afford plenty of water, but avoid excessive supplies
and driblets. Syringe at 3 to 3.30 P.M., damping in the morning, noon,
and before nightfall in bright weather. Maintain a night temperature
of 65° to 70°, 70° to 75° by day artificially, and keep it through the day
at 80° to 90° from sun heat, closing sufficiently early to rise to 90°, 95°,
or 100°. Train the growths 9 to 12 inches apart — that is, the side shoots
— and stop them at about 12 to 15 inches growth to give the needful
fruiting and furnishing wood. Kemove all fruit as well as male
blossoms as they appear, so as to get the plants strong, the early part
of September being sufficiently early to allow fruits to swell for
cutting at the end of the month. By cropping lightly at first a good
supply can be had later in November and December.

Plants in bearing will require attention in thinning old growths,
removing bad leaves, stopping at a joint beyond the show of fruit, to
maintain a succession. Plants in frames will be restored to vigour by a
good thinning out of the old shoots and the addition of a little fresh
loam, giving a moderate watering, and a sprinkling on bright af ternoons,
closing at about 3 P.M. With liming and the protection of mats over
the lights Cucumbers will be produced for a lengthened period.

APIARIAN NOTES.

Are Bees Wild Animals ?

Decision has been given in the Sheriff Court, Perth, in an
action in which David Harris, farmer, Aberbothrie, Alyth, sued
Robert Elder, farmer, Burnhead, Alyth, for delivery of a swarm
of bees belonging to pursuer, which on June 5th last swarmed
from pursuer's hive, and were followed by him to defender’s place,
where they alighted and were retained by him. The Sheriff held
that bees in a wild state were the property of the person who could
get possession of them. The defender was not entitled to open his
door to give entrance to the pursuer to take possession of the bees.
He therefore assoilzied the defender, but allowed no expenses.

The above decision by the Perth Sheriff seems to me to be of
an extraordinary nature, and contrary to precedent, use, and wont,
the latter in Scotland being constituted law. In previous actions it
was always held that if the owner of a swarm of bees did not lose
sight of them he could enter any premises and secure them by
paying all damages, once lost sight of they belonged to any person
who found them, which I think reasonable and just.

Bees are certainly not wild animals in the proper sense, not
more so than poultry, pigeons, &c., or the ferrets of the squire
or gamekeeper which, according to the above decision, any person
may take them wherever found. People should not find anything
and keep it. According to an unrescinded law in Scotland all found
property is to be handed over to the Baron Bailie, and to a recent
law to the police. Had I been the judge I would have acted a
Solomon’s part and given the owner of the bees his property.
The case is one for bee associations to take up, and either get the
law amended or administer it according to justice as it was
intended.

At the Moors.

The weather has since the 7th taken a turn for the better, and
bees are gathering Heather honey quickly. Hives that were almost
at starvation point are gaining weight rapidly, and with a few days
more fine promises to b^e the best honey season since 1859.

Queenless Hive.

A correspondent, “ F. J. W.,” writes on this subject, and asks
for advice. His hive may not be queenless, and it would therefore

be risky to introduce a valuable queen to it. He should try it first
with a piece of brood comb containing eggs and larvae ; if queenless
it will raise a queen. Any dealer will supply a queen. I obtain
all my imported queens, Punics excepted, from Messrs. George
Neighbour & Sons, 127, High Holborn, London. Punics can be
had from Mr. J. Hewitt, Cambridge Street, Sheffield. If the
bees start queen cells by removing the piece of brood the hive will
be in a fit condition to receive an imported queen. Nature’s book
is the best to study, assisted by the Journal of Horticulture, and
7d. sent to Col. Bennett, 50, Gordon Street, Glasgow, will secure
an essay on bees by post. — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Messrs. Ellwanger & Barry, Mount Hope Nurseries, Kochester,
U.S.A. — Strawberries, Dutch Bulbs, S\'c,

Osman & Co., 132 and 134, Commercial Street, London. — Illustrated
Catalogue of Horticultural Su ndries.

Sutton & Sons, Beading. — Illustrated Bulb Catalogue for 1893.

•,*A11 correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor ” or to “ The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

uxelon. — A correspondent whose letter has been mislaid, has sent a
Melon desiring our opinion on the fruit. It is very good in appearance,
but we are sorry to say quite inferior in quality, and one taste was more
than enough. Our correspondent will have no difficulty in recognizing
this reply as applying to his fruit.

Thrlps XTiider Class and Outdoors (^B. H.'). — There are many
species of thrips, and so much alike as to render it difficult to distinguish
them from each other. One of the most hurtful is that infesting plants
under glass, and this species is also often found outdoors in hot seasons.
It is called Heliothrips hoemorrhoidahs, and cannot survive the winter
outdoors. The most common thrips outdoors is the small black variety.
The insects are found on many plants, especially in dry seasons, also in
flowers, which they more or less malform. It is called H. minutissima.

Sabbatla campestrls (A. B.'). — The plant to which you doubt¬
less refer is Sabbatia campestris. This is one of the showiest of
our hardy outdoor annuals, and is a native of the open prairies of
Arkansas and Red River, where, although not very plentiful, the effect
of its deep rose lilac-coloured flowers is quite dazzling when seen through
the long grass. It grows from G inches to a foot high, with slightly
winged stem, branching habit ; leaves ovate, amplexicaule, acute, nerved ;
flowers nearly 2 inches in diameter, each of the variable segments being
marked with a five-rayed greenish-yellow star, having an irregular white
margin. It grows well in ordinary garden soil. 8. campestris has
often been confounded with the Chironia trinerva of Ceylon, and,
although agreeing in artificial character, the colour of the flower and
the ovate leaves distinguish it clearly enough for all practical purposes.

Winter’s Bark (ZT. B.). — You wish to “know something about
Winter’s Bark.” This is the produce of a small tree (Drymis Winter!)
allied to the Magnolias, and is occasionally seen in botanic gardens or
choice collections of plants in this country. The bark is a stimulant
aromatic tonic, and may be used for similar purposes as cinnamon and
Canella alba, for the latter of which it is sometimes substituted. Its
odour is that of pepper and basil, and its flavour of a burning acridity
adhering to the throat. It is said to be good in scurvy, vomiting, and
paralysis, and it is also used for tanning. It was first brought to
England from the Straits of Magellan in 1579 by Captain Winter, who
went out with Sir Francis Drake in his voyage round the world. He
found it very useful to his ship’s crew both as a substitute for other
spices and as a cure for scurvy. The leaves with other herbs are said to
hive been used successfully in fomentations, and half a drachm of the
bark boiled with some carminative seeds promoted perspiration and
relieved those suffering from scurvy. Other species of Drymis, as grana-
tensis and axillaris, possess the same properties, and the fruit of
Tasmannia aromatica is used as pepper by the settlers of Australia.

160

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[August 17, 1893.

Improving Xlght Soil — Pear Iieaves Browned (^F, M. 31.'). —
If the clay can be dried and smashed into small particles it could be the
better incorporated with the light soil of your garden, and would
undoubtedly improve it. We have not found raw lumps of much
immediate advantage. Clay sufficiently burned to be easily pulverised
is especially valuable for mixing with light soil for fruit trees, and
indeed all kinds of crops. The Pear leaves have the appearance of an
attack by slug-worms, but they have not cleared away, as usual, the
whole of the soft substance of the leaf, so that the veins and the skin
of the lower side are all that remain ; indeed, the leaf surface is almost
entire, but discoloured, and there are only traces of slug-worm attack
here and there on the upper surface. This may be due to the unusual
hardness of the epidermal tissues. It is remarkable, however, that
there is not further indications of such attacks. There is no trace of
fungal affection, and we think the discolouration of the leaves is due to
the slug-worm, the pest having collapsed in its early stages, but not
before it had injured the leaves.

Tlie White Beam Tree (^1. I.). — No doubt you refer to the
Pyrus Aria of botanists, and which is commonly known as the White
Beam Tree, in reference to the white under surface of the leaves. It
is a native of Britain, chiefly in the mountainous districts on limestone
soils. Its fruit is acid and astringent, but is not disagreeable to eat
when in a state of incipient decay, like the Medlar. When dried and
reduced to powder it has been converted into a sort of bread during
times of scarcity both in France and Sweden ; and when fermented it
forms a beer, or, by distillation, a powerful spirit. It is greedily eaten
by birds, for which reason the trees are ordered to be preserved in
French forests, that the number of birds may be increased, in order to
keep down the insects. The fruit also furnishes food to squirrels, and
when it drops, deer and the hedgehog eat it with avidity. The wood is
very hard, of a fine close grain, yellowish white, and susceptible of a
high polish. It may be stained of any colour, and is much used in
making handles of knives and forks, wooden spoons, and for musical
instruments, and various articles of turneryware.

Iilllums Unsatisfactory (^E. IF.). — The buds are destroyed by the
same cause as the leaves, but some of the buds have had their stalks
gnawed by a weevil, which would probably be found by examining
the plants at night with a lantern. The discoloured leaves are due to
bacteria generally, but there are traces of another infection, viz., that of a
fungus, which is certainly not the cause, but the consequence of the
diseased tissues, for it only lives on those which have been disorganised
by the bacteria. This parasite is embedded in the cells and sets up a
ferment, completely destroying them and leaving its spores attached to
the walls of the cells. The fungus comes after the bacterial attack, and
is confined mainly to the upper surface of the leaves, as in attacks by
eelworm. We were unable to identify the species, which is different to
the micro-organism producing wet rot in Potatoes, and the ferment is
very much less. The fungus germs are those of Polyactis cana. Try
spraying with Bordeaux mixture early another season to prevent the
attacks. We suspect the plants which had been grown to a height of
18 inches under glass before being planted out in May would receive a
check, as their tissues would be necessarily tender, and any injury,
though not perceived at the time, would render them liable to parasitic
attack.

Tomato Beaves Diseased (IF. D.). — The yellow spots in the
leaves indicate the abstraction of the contents of the cells by the
mycelium of a fungus (Phytophthora infestans), and its “ fruits ” are
just emerging from the under side of the leaves. They are as yet
immature on the yellowish parts, while those on the brown portions
have been developed and the spores scattered. The best thing to do is
to remove all the leaves or leaflets exhibiting yellow spots and burn
them, also every part that has become brown or black, then spray the
plants with Bordeaux mixture prepared as follows : sulphate of copper
4 ozs., powdered, dissolving in a vessel by itself in 3^ gallons of water,
then slake 4 ozs. of quicklime (quite fresh) in another vessel, and form
into a thin limewash with water, and pour it through a hair sieve slowly
into the vessel containing the copper solution, adding enough water to
make 1\ gallons altogether. To make sure that this will not injure the
plants drop a few drops of ferrocyanide of potassium into the Bordeaux
mixture after it has been well stirred, and if it turns brown it will
injure the plants, but if it remain a clear celestial blue it is perfectly
safe. It should be used as soon as made, not letting it stand for several
hours. Any fruits near ripening should be cut, and then spray the
plants in every part, repeating in the course of a week or ten days.
The mixture may be kept from the fruit by wrapping it in oilskin before
spraying, removing it afterwards. This makes safety doubly sure as
regards danger in using the fruit from the adherent copper. Maintain a
dry atmosphere with free ventilation,

NTames of Fruits. — Notice. — Special attention is directed to the
following decision, the object of which is to discourage the growth of
inferior and promote the culture of superior varieties. In conseqmnce
of the large numier of worthless Apples and Pears se7it to this office to
he named, it has heen decided to name only specimens and varieties of
approved merit, and to reject the inferior, which are not worth sending
or growing. The names and addresses of senders of fruit to be named
must in all cases be enclosed with the specimens, whether letters
referring to the fruit are sent by post or not. The names are not
necessarily required for publication, initials sufficing for that. Only six
specimens can be named at once, and any beyond that number cannot
be preserved. (^Lover of Fruit). — Pears— 1, Jargonelle ; 2, Not ripe.

probably Louise Bonne of Jersey. {^George Pennill). — 4, Beurr6
Glaiigeau ; 5, Williams’ Bon Chretien ; 6, Windsor. The Apples are
deformed or defective, and cannot be identified. (6*. C.). — As has been
many times stated, Plums cannot be named without portions of young
wood with leaves accompany the fruit. (IF. G. J.). — The Apple is
either a local seedling or a continental variety, and has no recognised
name on our list. {II, D.). — Thb Plum is probably Pond’s Seedling, bub
young shoots with leaves are necessary for satisfactory identification,
(IF. S. Payne). — 16, Allen’s Everlasting; 48, Longville's Kernel ; 60,
Whorle Pippin; 71, Golden Eeinette. {A. H. Lawrence). — 1, Lord
Suffield ; 2, Perhaps Gloria Mundi distorted ; 3, Possibly a small Domino ;
4 and 5, New Hawthornden ; 6, Winter Majetin. (J. T. Bare). — You
ought to have informed us if the flowers of the Nectarine are large or
small. If they are small it is Stanwick Blruge. {H. MI). — The Pear is
a good example of Williams’ Bon Chretien, The Apple cannot be
identified.

Wames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
{II. E. 31.). — The specimen arrived in a very defective state. It is
possibly Dimorphanthus mandchuricus, which sometimes produces
leaves 4 feet to 5 feet. Very ornamental in shrubberies. {G. F. S.). —
Monarda didyma (Bergamot). {G. A.), — The specimens are quite
insufficient for identification. The habits of such plants should be
clearly described, and better examples packed to arrive in a fresh state
for purposes of nomenclature. {C. F.). — CEnothera macrocarpa.
{G. A).~l, Davallia canariensis ; 2, D. decora; 3, Acrophorus affine;
4, Adiantum Weigandi ; 5, A. elegans ; 6, Cornus sanguineus.

OOYENT GARDEN MARKET. — AuauST 16th.
Large supplies, readily changing hands at low rates.

FRUIT,

s.

d.

s.

d.

d.

s.

d.

Apples, per bushel

*

1

0 to 6

0

Grapes per lb .

0

9

to 2

0

„ Tasmanian, per case

0

0

0

0

Lemons, case .

10

0

15

0

„ Nova Scotia,

brl.

0

0

0

0

Oranges, per 100 ., ..

0

0

0

0

Cherries, half sieve . .

.

0

0

0

0

Peaches, per doz .

1

6

8

0

Cobs .

25

0

0

0

Plums, per half sieve . .

1

G

2

6

Filberts, per 100 lbs.

25

0

0

0

St. Michael Pines, each . .

2

0

5

0

Gooseberries, half sieve

••

0

0

0

0

Strawberries, per lb .

0

0

0

0

VEGETABLES.

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

Asparagus, per bundle

,

0

0

to 0

0

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2

to 0

0

Beaus, Kidney, per lb.

0

3

0

4

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

5

Beet, Red, dozen . , . .

1

0

0

0

Parsley, dozen bunches , .

2

0

3

0

Carrots, bunch . . . ,

0

4

0

6

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . .

2

0

3

0

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

4

s

Celery, bundle . . , ,

1

0

1

3

Salsafy, bundle .

1

0

1

b

Ooleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Soorzonera, bundle . .

1

6

0

0

Cucumbers, dozen ..

1

6

3

0

Seakale, per basket . . . .

0

0

0

0

Endive, dozen . . . .

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb .

0

3

0

0

Herbs, bunch . . , ,

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel .

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch . , . .

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

4

Lettuce, dozen .. ..

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Mushrooms, punnet . .

..

0

9

1

0

AVERAGE WHOLESALE PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.
Orchid Blooms in variety.

s.

d.

S.

d

8.

d.

s.

a.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms ..

2

0 to

4

0

Marguerites, 12 bunches , . 2

0 to 4

(>

Asters (French), per bunch

0

9

1

3

Mignonette, 12 bunches . . 2

0

4

0

„ (English) doz. bches.

3

0

5

0

Myosotis, dozen bunches . . 1

6

3

0

Bouvardias, bunch .. ,.

0

6

1

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms 3

0

12

6

Carnations, 12 blooms

0

6

2

0

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches 6

0

9

0

Carnations, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

Chrysanthemums, dozen

bunches . 3

0

6

0

bunches . .

4

0

6

0

Primula (double) 12 sprays 0

6

1

0

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis.

1

0

2

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches 2

0

6

0

Cornflower, dozen bunches.

1

0

2

0

Roses (indoor), dozen .. 0

6

1

6

Eucharis, dozen .

1

6

4

0

„ Red, doz. bunches . . 4

0

6

0

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

„ Tea, white, dozen . . 1

0

2

0

Lilium lancifolium, dozen

„ Yellow, dozen .. .. 2

0

4

0

blooms .

1

6

3

0

Stocks, dozen bunches . . 4

0

8

0

Lilium longiflorum 12

Sweet Peas, doz. bunches.. 2

0

4

0

blooms .

2

0

4

0

Sweet Sultan, per dozen

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

bunches . 3

0

4

0

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Tuberoses, 12 blooms. . .. 0

4

0

6

PLANTS

IN POTS.

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

8.

d.

Arbor Vitse (golden) dozen

6

0 to 12

0

Hydrangea, per dozen . . 12

Oto 24

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Ivy Geraniums . 4

0

6

0

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

Lilium lancifolium per doz. 12

0

18

0

Balsams, per dozen . . . .

3

0

6

0

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen 12

0

24

0

Campanula, per dozen

9

0

18

0

Lobelia, per doz . 3

0

6

0

Dracaena terminalis, per

Lycopodiums, per dozen . . 3

0

4

0

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . . 6

0

12

0

Dracaena viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Mignonette, per doz . 4

0

6

0

Euonvmus, var., dozen . .

6

0

18

0

Myrtles, dozen . 6

0

9

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24

0

Palms, in var.. each .. ,. 1

„ (specimens) .. ..21

0

15

0

Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

4

0

18

0

0

63

0

Ferns (smaU) pr r liundred

4

0

6

0

Pelargoniums, per dozen.. 6

0

12

0

Ficus elastica. each ..

1

6

7

6

„ scarlet, per dozen.. 3

0

6

0

Foliage plants, var., each. ,
Fuchsia, per dozen . . . .

2

0

10

0

Petunia, per dozen . . , . 6

0

9

0

5

0

9

0

Rhodanthe, per dozen , . 4

0

6

0

A. igust 17, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

161

AUTUMN TILLAGE.

Of the many lessons of the great drought, most important
of all was that of the primary value of deep and thorough
autumn tillage. Without it many a farmer’s hands have been
tied, a seed bed was an impossibility. Why ? Because his
heavy land was not ploughed till after it became saturated by
the heavy rainfall of an exceptionally wet February. The wet
furrows were then exposed to the drought which set in early in
March, sun and wind then drying them so quickly that the clods
were impervious to any implement — roller, cultivator, or
harrow made no impression upon them, and Lent went by with
out a field being sown with corn. Even where matters were
not quite so bad. the soil being crushed sufficiently to admit of
the sowing of both corn and root crops, much of the seed lay
dormant week after week, the plants coming in patches. When
rain at length fell, growth sprung up from the dormant seed,
wi'h the result of many a coimfield in July having patches and
strips of ripening corn alternating with others quite gi'een and
in full growth.

Where the land had thorough tillage last autumn, and was
left for winter well drained, clean, thrown up into ridges, and with
perfect mechanical divisions, it broke down under the harrows
into an excellent seed bed — sweet, mellow, moist, and light as
ashes. In the second, or early in the third, month of the year
sowing went on with a rapidity and finish impossible under a
less perfect system of cultivation. Seed germination followed
quickly and evenly, up came a full strong plant, growth went on
without serious check or hindrance from drought, on to such
early maturity of the corn, that very much of it was in shock
or stook a month before the usual time of harvest. Roots, too,
have thriven equally well, and timely intelligent farming stands
triumphant. The year for it is crowned with plenty, for be very
sure that hand-in-hand with such energe'ic tillage goes an
equally sensible systematic storage of the soil with plant
food.

Drainage, mechanical division, cleanliness, autumn tillage,
sustained fertility, carefully selected seed, timely sowing, these
are the watchwords of the successful farmer. The guiding
principles of his practice, they affect all he does. He is success¬
ful not only because of them, but also, and very much also,
because they are combined with sound judgment, and powers
of discrimination, which enable him to apportion his cropping
and modify his practice whenever it becomes necessary or
advantageous to do so.

This autumn a golden opportunity has come to him in the
early harvest. The clearance of the corn from the land so early
in August will enable him to have the stubbles quite clean
before plough and subsoiler are at woi-k. His land is so free
and open that the broadshare can be used at once to slightly pare
the surface, so that perennial weeds may be got together by the
harrows which follow and be burnt. Soil that is crude, hard, and
heavy cannot be pared so easily ; it is usually so hard after
harvest that neither plough nor broadshare will enter it till it
is softened by heavy autumnal showers, and so precious time
is wasted and the opportunity for thorough tillage lost. There
should be time this autumn for doing something to correct the
crudeness of heavy land. Gas lime has been used with excel¬
lent effect upon the Essex clays. When applied in autumn it
acts mechanically upon the soil, stimulates latent fertility ; but
it ought never to be used instead of manure. Rather apply it,
or lime fresh from the kiln, early in autumn, and sow chemical

manure with the corn, roots, or other crops in spring. As a
rule, lime may be used advantageously once in six years at the
rate of GO to 100 bushels per acre. One of our finest crops of
Wheat was on land which, when it came into our hands, was in
a very foul, inert condi ion. It had a summer fallow, was
cross-ploughed deeply several times, was dressed with fresh
kiln lime during these ploughings, then well manured just
before the Wheat sowings. This was a case of necessity as
regards the fallow, because the land was so very foul. Coal
ashes, slag from smelting furnaces, and burnt clay are also
excellent for opening up the land. In mining districts there
are immense heaps of slag — enough for the land of a wide
district, but which is seldom if ever turned to account for such
a purpose.

WOEK ON THE HOME FAEM.

Since writing our last note thunder storms, with a heavy downpour
of rain, have been frequent, but there has been nothing worthy of the
name of wet weather, and harvest work has gone on with despatch. On
some farms the whole of the corn is in stack, and the ploughs are at
work upon the stubbles. First of all such weeds as Couch Grass, Colts¬
foot, Thistles, Docks, and Ononis or Eest Harrow must be destroyed,
then ploughing follows at once, cultivators, horse hoes, harrows, and
ploughs all being in full swing, so as to have the soil cleaned, broken up
deeply, turned over by cross-ploughing two or three times according to
the weather, and at the last turn all that is left for the spring sowing is
thrown into high ridges by the double-breasted plough.

Have all land intended for autumn sowing with Wheat, Eye, and
Winter Oats ready for the corn drill by the end of the month in order
that the sowing may be done early in September. The seed will go in
quickly and well then, but if the sowing is put off till October it may
have to wait for fine weather till spring. Get in the corn then in
September,, so as to do the work in the best way, and have a full strong
plant. Sow no Wheat on inferior land, only on the best mixed soil ;
select good seed, and apply manure through the drill with the seed —
half hundredweight sulphate of ammonia, quarter hundredweight
steamed bone flour, and quarter hundredweight superphosphate per acre.
This very moderate dressing is to get a sturdy plant before winter, and
is followed early in spring withl^ cwt. nitrate of soda, quarter hundred¬
weight steamed bone flour, half hundredweight superphosphate, and
half hundredweight muriate of potash where necessary.

It may appear somewhat premature to mention this matter while
harvest is still in full swing, but it is not. The common fault is to relax
efforts after harvest, just when all in our power should be done to push
on autumn work, and get as forward as possible before wet October
comes. Now is the time for strenuous effort. Strive to be well beforehand
with all farm work, but especially with field work, which is so dependant
upon the weather. Very pleasant is the feeling when the land is
locked up by frost and snow that it was so tilled in the autumn.

BOARD OF AGRICULTURE AND ENSILAGE.

In view of the exceptional circumstances resulting from the drought
of the spring and summer of this year, the Board of Agriculture
consider it desirable to circulate information concerning the use of
ensilage processes, and their value in providing winter and spring keep
for stock.

The general impression prevailing upon the subject of ensilage is
that it is only serviceable in wet seasons when they cannot be properly
made. But there are not a few agriculturists who make silage regularly
either in silos, or in stacks, or in clamps every year, and speak highly of
its value for feeding purposes.

The wet summer of 1888 gave a great temporary stimulus to ensilage,
which was encouraged by the discovery that good silage could be made
in stacks and clamps by a comparatively cheap and simple process.
This year attention will be again very generally directed to ensilage in
consequence of the unprecedented scarcity of grass and Clovers for hay,
and the failure of the ordinary crops for winter food caused by drought.

Materials suitable for Silage.

It may in some cases, it is believed, be too late to make hay of
Lucerne, second cuts of Clover, Sainfoin, and grass, as well as of Italian
Eye Grass, grass and Clover mixtures, and other crops sown when the
drought ceased. All of these crops that can be spared from the
immediate requirements of the farm stock may be advantageously made
into silage. They should be allowed to stand as late as the weather will
permit, for although it is acknowledged to be best to cut such crops as
grass and Clover for silage when in flower, the object must be to get the
greatest possible bulk of material at this crisis.

Every particle of herbage upon farms should be cut for silage.
Even weeds, sedge, and rushes should be utilized. Nettles have been
successfully employed. The outsides of fields and the sides of hedges
and other waste places should be brushed and the brushings ensiled.
The leaves of some kinds of trees may also be ensiled. If the material
is too coarse for actual silage it will be useful for topping up the silos,
stacks, or clamps. Coarse grass in meadows, pastures, and under trees
in orchards and elsewhere, which stock frequently reject, may be made

162

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

£ August 17, 18ftS.

into eatable silage. Hop bines should be ensiled directly the hops have
been picked, while the sap is fresh. Maize and Sorghum saccharatum
are valuable ensilage materials.

Pbeparation of Materials.

Grass, Clovers, Oats, Bye, Lucerne, Vetches, &c., require no prepara¬
tion. They are simply mown as closely as possible and carted to the silo,
stack, or clamp, and put in, or on, and compressed as tightly as possible
that the air may not penetrate between the layers. Hop-bines should
be carted directly the hops have been picked, and much pressure applied
to them. Where silos are available it would be well to cut hop-bines
with the bine cutter used to cut them for manure, or they may be
put into stacks or clamps whole, or cut into long lengths with this
machine. Maize and Sorghum are usually chaffed in fairly large
lengths when put into silos. Maize ensiled whole in stacks or clamps
turns out well if properly managed, even though the stalks are very
large and thick.

Special machines may be obtained for chaffing silage materials,
and elevators for stacking them.

Methods of Ensilage.

Since the publication of the Summary of Replies to Questions on
Silos and Ensilage in Great Britain by the Agricultural Department in
1885 (C. — 4536), and the Reports of the Ensilage Commission (H. C. —
308 of 1885 and H. C. — 119 of 1886), there have been very important
changes in the methods of ensilage. At that time the only mode of
making silage was to put it into silos, or pits, — receptacles with sides
of brick, stone, or concrete. These were often too expensive for tenant
farmers. Here and there, however, heads of barns, out-houses, and
other buildings were converted into silos at a small cost. On large
holdings it would be necessary to have these in various parts of the
farm as the carting of green forage long distances would be very costly.
But since the inexpensive and simple stack and clamp systems have
been introduced, regular pit-silos have not materially increased in
numbers.

Silos,

Existing silos will naturally be made full use of in this emergency,
and buildings that can be readily and economically converted may be
made into temporary silos, as the silo system has certain advantages.
There is generally not quite so much waste as in stacks and clamps, and
it is easier to keep out air.

To get sweet silage the silo should be filled somewhat slowly to
obtain a temperature of from 130° to 160°, which neutralises the acid
fermentation. If the temperature falls much below this, sour silage is
produced.

When silos are filled they are pressed down by machinery, or pressure
is given by weights of various kinds that may be convenient, such as
earth, bricks, stones upon planks and boards. Machinery for pressing
has been patented by several manufacturers.

Silage Stacks.

In the wet weather of 1888, as it was impossible to make hay,
attention was directed to the most inexpensive modes of making silage,
and silage stacks of various shapes and sizes were hastily eonstructed in
all parts of the country. Where ordinary care was taken the result was
generally satisfactory, and the experience of practical men in later
years warrants the recommendation of the adoption of the stack system
at the present crisis.

Silage stacks are made in the same way as ordinary haystacks.
The materials are carted and stacked either in circular, square, or
oblong stacks. It is important to have great and regular pressure,
which may be adjusted, or adjusts itself, as the mass shrinks. If this
is obtainable, the materials may be put together as quickly as may be
convenient. There are several patented methods of pressing, as by
chain pressure, hydraulic presses, and lever appliances. Before pressing
the material should be carefully levelled.

Silage stacks may also be made without special machinery. In this
case the material cannot be put together so quickly, and every part
must be most carefully and firmly trodden, especially that near the
outsides. Poles may be pitched at the corners and sides of the stack,
and braced together at the top to guide the stackmakers. A framework
of four large planks may be made round the poles and drawn up as the
stack progresses by pulleys fastened to each end of the bracing at the
top. This will keep the stack in shape, and allow the outsides to be
well trodden down. The boards may be used to cover the stack when
made, and heavily weighted with bricks, stones, or other weighty
substances. The whole must be covered with straw or other covering
to keep out the wet.

A well-known pioneer of the ensilage movement has given up silos
and makes silage now entirely in round stacks. They are built slowly,
and not pressed nor weighted until complete. Bough grasses or weeds
are used to top up, and a layer of these is put at the bottom. The
surface is trodden down, and sand or earth is laid on the top to a depth
of about 6 inches. A trench is dug round the stack if the surface
drainage is not good, the earth from this serving to cover the silage.
“No mode of compression has been found so good,” this gentleman
writes, “as earth or sand; it follows the ensilage down much better
than any other mode of weighting. A little attention is necessary for
a day or two, to see that it goes down without cracking. In building
the stack it should be kept full in the middle, in order that it may finish
convex.” He also recommends the use of a mixture consisting of a
layer of one load of Oats, Peas, Beans, Vetches, and Italian Bye Grass,

alternating with a layer of two cartloads of meadow grass, the whole
being cut or chaffed before being ensiled.

Dry earth may be spread either directly on the silage or on inter¬
vening sheets of Willesden paper. In this case no other covering will
be required.

Materials for silage-stack-making should be used whole as a rule,
and carted at once after cutting. Hop bines and other coarse material
may be chaffed advantageously in longish lengths with a hop-bine
cutter.

Silage Clamps.

These are simple and inexpensive receptacles of the green crops
enumerated above. They are advocated by practical men as most
valuable, especially in times of emergency, and some stock-owners who
have silos prefer to adopt clamps.

They may be made on slightly sloping ground by stumping out the
required size, the length exceeding the breadth, and carting material
for silage within this area. The carts must be drawn on and over the
heap precisely as when a manure mixen is made, and tipped where
material is required to fill up. They must be drawn as closely to the
sides as possible so as to give pressure there. When the middle has
risen too high for further carting the sloping ends are cut off and the
material thrown on to the clamp, and levelled, and firmly trodden in.
The outsides may be pared off, and the material treated in the same
way. Then dry earth should be laid evenly upon the clamp, to a depth
of 8-10 inches, either with or without an intervening layer of rough
herbage, bracken, or leaves.

On dry soils a trench may be dug 3 feet deep, and of length and width
according to the quantity of material. This may be packed tightly into
the trench by the carts being led over it. A heavy roller drawn over
the mass will help to consolidate it. The soil from the trench can be
used for covering and weighting the clamp. Practical men say that
the material cannot be too juicy and even wet to make good silage by
this process.

Old pits for chalking land, so numerous in chalk soil districts, forna
capital receptacles for silage. The carts should be led over the mass,
which must be finally left in a somewhat conical form, and covered
with earth to a depth of from 10 to 12 inches.

Where earth is used as a covering for silage stacks or clamps occa¬
sional inspection is necessary, as the earth sinks with the silage, and
cracks are sometimes formed which must be filled up. ,

The Use and Value of Silage.

Many stock-owners and cow-keepers make silage regularly and use
it as a valuable addition to ordinary food for stock. In one instance an
owner of forty-five dairy cows has for some years kept his cows almost
entirely upon silage made in stacks, with an allowance of oil cake. There
is much other testimony as to its value for feeding milch cows as well as
breeding ewes. For fatting beasts it has been proved that well-made
silage is at least of equal value with hay, and for lean stock of all kind's
it may be used as a complete substitute for either hay or roots. Farm
horses will do well on properly made silage.

It can be given either by itself, either cut or whole, or it can be
chaffed with straw or hay. In the exceptional condition of the scarcity
of hay and the shortness of the straw of all crops, there will be little o^f
these to spare for cutting into chaff, and silage may be given alone, and
must prove of inestimable value for supplying the quantities of bulky
food that are absolutely essential for the digestion of ruminants and to
keep them in health.

METEOBOLOGICAL OBSBBVATIONS.
Oamdbn Squarb, Loxdon.

Lat.51° 32' 40" N. ; Loag. 0° 8' 0" W.: Altitude. Ill feet.

Datb.

9 A.M,

In THE Day,

Bain.

1893,

August.

1 Barometer

1 at 32'', and

I Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Incha.

Sunday , .

6

30-135

61-1

55-4

N.E.

60-2

70-9

47-2

96-9

43-3

- -

Monday . .

7

30-085

65-0

60-4

S.W.

59-9

78-0

56-1

126-0

64-0

—

Tuesday . .

8

30153

72-2

62-2

S.

61-2

84-9

54-2

125-1

60 0

—

Wednesday

9

30083

73-1

65-1

S.E.

62-7

83-0

60-0

121-9

63-1

0-010

Thursday . .

10

29-931

72-1

65-8

S.B.

64-1

82-6

63-9

123-9

58-6

- -

Friday

11

30-115

70-7

63-9

E.

65-0

81-7

61-8

1-9-2

57-3

0-077

Saturday . .

12

30-183

68-1

65-4

S.W.

65-9

79-8

63-3

126-2

60-3

—

30-098

68-9

62 6

62-7

80-1

58-1

121-3

53-8

0-087

REMARKS.

6th. — Brilliant from sunrise to 9 A.M., then hazy ; generally overcast in afternoon
with occasional spots of rain.

7th. — Overcast till nearly 11 A.M., bright and warm after.

8th. — Generally sunny, but not clear.

9th.— Almost cloudless throughout ; much distant lightning in evening and nigh t.

10th. — Mucb distant lightning and some thunder and rain in the small hours ; hazy
and oppressive in morning ; clear and hot after noon.

11th, — Bright sunshine throughout.

12th. — Rain from 3 A.M. to 4 -V.M. ; overcast morning with drizzle at 10 A.M. sunny
afternoon and evening.

A sultry week with frequent haze and calm air. Temperature about 6° above the

average, the minima in shade being higher than in any other week of the year. —
G J. Symons.

August 24, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

163

AUGUST HEAT ANU
GARDEN PRODUCE.

X

Memorable to the public generally, and by no class more
than the gardening community, will be the remarkable heat
of August of the present year. An unbroken term of eleven
days, in which the shade temperature was upwards of 80°, and on
several days over 90°, with a night minimum of seldom less than
70°, is an occurrence so rare as to demand permanent record.
Thursday last, the 17th inst., was one of the hottest days known
in the vicinity of the metropolis. The returns vary somewhat
from different localities, due in part no doubt to the positions
occupied by thermometers, and perhaps in greater part to the
variations of instruments from the standard of accuracy. The
readings at Greenwich we may, however, expect to be correct,
and we are informed that at Greenwich the temperature in the
sun reached 146‘2° on Friday last, and in the shade 95T° This, it
is authoritatively stated, has not been exceeded in August during
the last fifty years, although it was equalled on August 11th, 1884,
and it has only been exceeded twice at Greenwich during the
last half century, the readings being 96 6°, July 22nd, 1868;
and 97T°, July 15th, 1881. As the minimum night temperature
was 72°, the mean daily temperature of August 17th has
therefore apparently not been exceeded since authentic records
have been kept. In the Royal Horticultural Society’s Gardens,
Chiswick, on Thursday in the “ hot week ” the shade thermometer
registered 95°, and examiners of the trials of Onions and Potatoes
were bravely (?) discharging their duties beneath the shade of
umbrellas.

Lives have been lost through the excessive heat, and more no
doubt would have been but for those splendid institutions — public
hospitals — in which many persons who were stricken found refuge
and relief. Much loss has been incurred by the destruction of
perishable food, including fruit and vegetables. We have seen
it announced that it is not at all uncommon for 5 or 6 tons of
produce to be destroyed weekly in Covent Garden during hot
weather, but that amount was greatly exceeded during the late
abnormal heat. Large quantities were spoiled on arrival, and had
to be forthwith carted away, and sent down the river in barges for
use as manure. Only those consigners who were alive to the
importance of not keeping fruit till it was fully ripe before
packing could rely on the produce being saleable a few hours after
exposure in the market. One of the most common errors of the
inexperienced is to wait a day or more too long with their fruit,
and then not being sufficiently careful in excluding bruised or
blemished specimens, A very few of these will render the bulk
comparatively useless, and especially when the fruit is as ripe as
it should be, no allowance being made for its changing on the way
— a change that may amount to destruction.

The heat and drought have had a most exhausting effect on
vegetation. In some parts of Surrey, where little rain has fallen,
thunder showers having gone elsewhere during July, we have
recently seen large Elm trees as if seared with fire and hedge¬
rows shrivelled, no green leaves to be seen. In many gardens
the time of the workers has been almost exclusively devoted to
watering in the hope of keeping shrubs alive, and many large
Rhododendrons have perished. Lawns and walks are littered -with
leaves as in October, and where no sweeping has been done the
ground is thickly covered, few being left on many trees and

Na 687. — VoL. XXVII,, Third Series.

none of them green. Should a warm moist autumn follow, a
second growth on trees, shrubs, and fruit bushes is by no means
improbable. Where the drought has been the most severe and
prolonged the greatest difficulty has been experienced in main¬
taining the vegetable supply and keeping flower beds and borders
presentable. This could not be done in the absence of deep
rich soil and mulching, supplemented by such waterings as could
be given by exhausted men.

Fruits of all kinds have ripened before their time, and are
generally smaller than usual, also drier, but not too dry for the
voracious wasps, which have had most of the best on many trees
that could not be protected. The effect of the heat has been
seen in the ripening of Apricots on open orchard standards. We
had small but excellent fruits from such a tree grown at Dulwich
a fortnight ago, and it is worthy of record that 33 bushels of
ripe Apricots have been gathered from twenty-four trees grown
quite in the open in the market grounds of Mr. Smith of Chiswick,
and sold to Mr, Beach, the famous jam manufacturer at Brentford,
for 11s. a bushel. This is an extraordinary yield of the ripe
Apricots from open standard trees early in August, and could
not be produced in other than an abnormally hot and dry summer.
The variety was the Royal.

Perhaps no better index of the condition of garden crops
generally at the present time could be afforded than by the
National Co-operative Vegetable, Fruit, and Flower Show that
was held at the Crystal Palace last Saturday. It should be said,
however, that the magnitude of the display rendered it necessary
to arrange and judge the vegetables on the previous day, Friday.
Mr. E. O. Greening, the Managing Director of the Association,
appeared proud of the display, as well he might be, although
there was a falling off in the number of exhibits in the industrial
or cottagers’ section, for while the decrease in this section was
small, the increase in the entries of professional gardeners, notably
for fruit, was very much larger. Last year the workers’ entries
numbered for vegetables 1525, this year they fell to 1202 ; but in
the professional classes they rose from 502 to 627. In fruit the
workmen’s entries last year were 154, this year 240 ; the increase
in the professional classes being from 111 to 198. Altogether the
entries of the workers in vegetables, fruit, plants, and flowers
were 2539, and of the professionals 1388. Mr, Greening in his
interesting opening address suggested that the weather had been
more cruel to cottagers and allotment holders than to gardeners.
These latter had deeper, richer soil, and the lesson should not be
lost. Thorough culture tells always, but never so effectively as
during a dry exhausting season. The Director thought he might
claim for the Show the honour of being the largest of the kind in
Britain, as he certainly might. It will be safe to say its equal
has not been seen in Europe, and we have yet to learn that an
exhibition of garden produce of the same character and magnitude
has been provided in the land of great things — America — produce
largely grown by cottagers and the industrial population. It may
be said, as affording a tangible idea of the extent of the display,
that a length of 1100 yards of tabling was requisite for staging the
exhibits. These were shown in 245 classes, including seven for
honey, and one for farm produce.

Vegetables, fruit, and flowers came from widely distant parts
of the country, and the show may fairly be regarded as a national
one, not in name alone but in fact. Let it be said at once that
it was a credit to the nation, and more especially in the vegetable
department, as representing the cultural work of the industrial
population. Not the name of a prizewinner will be given here,
for if we give one we must give scores, and no one would be
the better for the list. All personalities shall remain obscure, and
their work alone alluded to. There need be then no fear of free
criticism touching tender susceptibilities. It has to be said that
the vegetables of the industrial classes, cottagers, and artisans,
were decidedly better as a whole than were those staged by

No. 2343.— VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

16i

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 24, 1893.

gardeners. The winner of the leading prize collection in the
professional class may not be expected to acquiesce in this ; but
there was not one dish of his produce that could not have been
easily beaten by a dish of the same kind in the cottagers’ classes.
His vegetables were too large. A critical on-looker described them
as “ clumsy.” They represented unremitting cultural attention,
no doubt, but also represented waste in labour and material. It
is not suggested that those in other collections were better, for
they were not. We had large and coarse on the one hand, and
small and coarse, or inferior, on the other. Surely all the best
vegetable judges know that too much weight is attached to mere
size, and yet few appear to have the moral courage to place
quality first, as it always should be for vegetables that are
supposed to be grown for the dining tables of the affluent who
desire to have such vegetables of the highest possible quality.
Cottagers’ vegetables may be permissibly larger, as bulk is a
point of moment ; but even then it should not be at the expense
of good quality.

It was observable in most of the cottagers’ classes that the
largest Onions, Marrows, Beet, Kidney Beans, Carrots, and indeed
nearly all other vegetables, did not obtain the highest prizes. High
quality with useful size appeared to be what the judges had in
mind in determining the relative merits of the cottagers’ produce.
This should always be so, or coarseness and waste will be
encouraged as is the case now in gardeners’ classes. Prizes are
regularly awarded to vegetables that no first-class cook would
accept for a first-class dinner. No one who knows what a first-
class dinner is can deny that assertion, yet the absurdity of
honouring the unwieldy and unacceptable, as judged by the final and
conclusive test, is perpetuated. A gardener who has to supply the
best that can be grown for a nobleman’s table remarked the other
day that he thought the time had arrived when a limit should be
placed to size, and that no vegetables should exceed certain
stipulated dimensions. There is something in the idea, and perhaps
in time he or others may put it into shape by suggesting a maximum
size for vegetables grown by gardeners for the tables of their
employers. It would result in the staging of produce of much
higher quality than is now seen at shows, and to which leading
prizes are awarded.

But while the workers led the way by the excellence of their
produce in the vegetable classes, the gardeners, as may be expected,
were far in advance with fruit, though excellent specimens and
dishes were staged in both sections. Cooking Apples were espe¬
cially fine, and sixteen growers competed in one class. Dessert
Apples and Pears were also good . The Apples were of fair size
and finely coloured. Pears were mainly represented by Williams’
Bon Chretien, or, as it was frequently named, “William.” Amongst
the Grapes Alicantes were the best, though good bunches of
Muscat of Alexandria were shown. Plums were finely exhi¬
bited both in the culinary and dessert classes. Amongst the
Peaches Sea Eagle was perhaps the finest, though there were other
very good fruits. Melons were not a particularly good feature,
nor were small fruits, the Show being too late for them
this early season. Brightness and sweetness were imparted by
flowers of various kinds and in bewildering numbers, and
altogether the Show in its entirety was a wonderful one consider¬
ing the season.

The exhibits afforded practical and conclusive testimony of the
great and growing interest that is taken in gardening by the
community. The excellence of the products also denoted skill in
cultivation and the exercise of thought and persevering work in
bringing them together in such generally good condition. The
Show was a credit to all, organizers and exhibitors. Co-operation in
production is evidently growing. Whether anything like equal
progress can be made by co-operation in distribution remains to be
seen. Mr. Greening and his able associates have done much in one
direction, and it is conceivable they can do something in the other,
tending to the more profitable disposal of crops to the producers

without any prejudice to consumers, but on the contrary to their
advantage.

Always on the look out for somethirg new and good, Mr.
Greening said “ next year he should like to carry out a novel idea
of his own, if he could only get the Judges to work with him, and
that was to show in the centre of the Palace a model of a town
garden, as it often was, with its bricks and pots, old kettles, and
dead cats, and the other rubbish strewn within its boundaries, and
to place side by side with it a town garden such as it might be by
the aid of co operation and the improved resources and knowledge
of working men.” If the great organiser can find the means and
the Crystal Palace Company find a suitable space in the grounds,
real gardens could be formed of the nature suggested that would
be interesting, instructive, and attractive (without the cats), but an
attempt to carry out the idea in the Palace would, it is feared,
result in a burlesque, though no doubt something of a sensational
nature might be provided — if there is room.

COLOUR IN PEACHES AND NECTARINES.

Undoubtedly this has been a very good season for the colour¬
ing of the above fruits. Some varieties naturally put on a higher
colour even during the dullest seasons than do others. Whether
for market purposes or for home dessert the colour of the fruit
has a good deal to do with its acceptance, and affects its value
materially. There is no fruit more tempting to the palate than
a highly coloured Peach ; but it is to show how to get high
colour in them during a comparatively dull summer that these
notes are written. Sunshine is not the only factor which is
required. Light is most essential. Exposure to light, air, and
sunshine is generally advised, and often practised when the fruits
have had the final thinning, and about the size of large Walnuts.
But I maintain that this full exposure should take place earlier
than at the stoning stage. The finishing of the fruit properly
should be studied at the time of planting. A good distance — at
least 15 inches from the glass — is the proper position in which to
train the branches in the front part of the structure, and when
trees are planted and trained upon the back walls those in front
should be so disposed as not to obstruct the light from them. The
trees must be kept healthy from the beginning, not fed so as to
make them gross, but brought into good bearing condition as soon
as possible — the result of a well-maintained state of the borders
and thoroughly ripened wood.

Setting the fruit is a very important point to consider. Those
flowers which are on the upper side of the trellis, in the case of
trees growing at the front and those which stand well forward on
the back wall trees, should be attended to, whether setting be
accomplished by means of the syringe, camel’s-hair pencil, or
shaking the trees. The aim should be to get a good set of fruit
well exposed to the light, and then there will be a fair prospect of
having colour in the fruit. The crimson is not put on during the
last stages of growth only, but is begun much earlier. I like to
see the young Peaches well browned by the time they have stoned ;
this betokens that deep crimson colour which it is so desirable to
obtain. If left till later, just as the last swelling begins before the
leaves are put on one side, the fruit, through the sudden exposure,
is liable to scald, because being grown in semi-darkness the skin is
tender, and unable to bear the sun’s rays without injury. Having
trees in good health, the foliage kept free from red spider, early
exposure of the fruits to sun, light, and air, even in the dullest
of our summers fairly well coloured Peaches and Nectarines may
be obtained. — G. Garner.

ORIGIN OF THE BISMARCK APPLE.

As a misconception appears to exist in England as to the origin
of the Apple “ Prince Bismarck,” I beg to give you the following
details concerning this splendid fruit, as I was present at the
monthly meeting of the Horticultural Society of Victoria, held in
the Athenaeum, Collins Street, Melbourne, where it was exhibited
for the first time by a Mr. Clarkson, nurseryman, Carisbrook, and
named by the Seedling Fruit Committee in June, 1873 : —

At our gardens we kept a register of seedling fruits of merit
raised in the Colony that came under the notice of the Committee,
when we were under the control of the Horticultural Society of
Victoria, and the practice is continued now that the gardens are
under the control of the Government, and managed by a Board of
Horticulture. Some of the gentlemen composing this Board were

AugUBk 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

166

members of the Seedling Fruit Committee of the Horticultural
Society when this Apple was named. I enclose a copy of a form
that is forwarded to raisers of seedling fruits, which they are
requested to fill in and return, when it is again entered into a
permanent book, and open to anyone interested in the raising of
seedlings. The form will show all the details in connection with
this Apple.

I have taken this plan to prevent any further claims being
made by any of the other colonies, as I observe in the “ Fruit
Manual ’’ edition 1884, page 181, it is stated that it was raised in
the province of Canterbury, Xew Zealand, and was sent home to
Mr. Mclndoe, gardener to Sir Joseph Pease, Bart., Hutton Hall,

Guisborough, and again in the Gardener s Chronicle, February 18th,
1893, where a notice, also a figure of the Apple, appears as grown
by Messrs. Bunyard & Co., of Maidstone, who say it is of Tasmanian
origin ; whilst Messrs. Rivers & Son attribute it to New
Zealand. As both statements are incorrect, which can be testified
by the Register, I would feel extremely grateful if you can set the
matter at rest when an opportunity occurs to give the correct
history of this Apple. I also enclose herewith a photograph of
Apple “ Prince Bismarck,” taken by one of the students at the
gardens from a fair sized specimen. — Geo. Neilson, Curator, Royal
Horticultural Gardens, Richmond Park, Burnley, Melbourne, Victoria,
Australia, July 10th, 1893.

[copy AS TAKEN FROM THE REGISTER KEPT AT THE GARDENS.]

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY OF VICTORIA.-REGISTER OF SEEDLING FEUIT3 RAISED IN VICTORIA.

Ayple, exhibited by B. Clarkson, Carisbrook, Victoria, June Meeting, 1873.

Kind of Fruit, for example, Apple, Pear, iSrc.

Name of Raiser . ... ...

Locality where raised ... .

Date of Sowing . .

If artificially crossed (or chance seedling)

Parentage (if known) .

Date of fruiting, first time .

Season of Ripening

Size (small, medium, or large)... .

Shape (description must depend upon kind of fruit)

Skin (whether rough or smooth, ribbed, <fcc.)

Colour of Skin . . .

Core (characteristics of — large or small, ic.)

Flesh (colour, consistency, &c., <fec.) ...

Quality (first, second, or third class) .

Use (dessert, cooking, cider, drying, &c.) .

Stalk (short, long, stout, or slender, bent or straight, how insetted)

Stalk Basin (large or small, deep or shallow) .

Eye Basin (large or small, plain or plaited, broad or narrow) .
Segments (long or short, closed or open, reflexed, pointed, &c., &c

Pips (large or small) .

Stone (large or sma'l) .

Kernel (bitter or sweet) .

Suture (term applies to Plums, Peaches, &c.)

Flowers (particulars as to size, colour, &c.)

Habit of Tree (whether spreading or upright, &c.)

Constitution of Tree (robust or otherwise) ...

Foliage (large or small, and of what colour, &c.)

Date when and where first fruited

By whom named (if at all) .

To what 'disease liable (if any)

Particulars.

Apple.

Carisbrook, Victoria.

Uncertain.

Chance seedling.

Not known.

18G4.

Late autumn.

Large.

Oblate, ribbed towards the crown.

Smooth.

Yellow striped with crimson, often in some localities covered all
Small, [over with deep crimson.

White, juicy.

First.

Cooking.

About 1 inch, slender.

Deep, wide, lined with russet.

Deep, angular basin.

Closed, flat.

Medium.

Spreading.

Robust.

Large light green.

1864, Park Farm, Carisbrook.

Named by the Seedling Fruit Committee of the Horticultural
Woolly aphis. [Society of Victoria, 1873.

Remarks.

The name given to this
Apple by the Seed¬
ling Fruit Committee
of the Horticultural
Society of Victoria
in June, 1873, was
Prince Bismarck.

A chance seedling
found growing on
Harrison’s Hill dig¬
gings, amongst the
mullock heaps; it
was one of a dozen
found growing, and
was transplanted
into my garden by
Messrs. Walters and
Shulty, my prede¬
cessors. I was on
the place at the time
in 1862. Mr. B.
Clarkson, of Smoky
Gully, got grafts
from me.

(Signed)
Fredk. Fricke.

Witness to Signature,
Henry Beilby.

The above is a true and correct copy of what appears in the permanent register of seedling fruits kept at the Royal Horticultural Gardens.

Geo. Neilson, Curator.

SULPHATE OF COPPER AND PARIS GREEN MIXTURES AS FUNGICIDES AND INSECTICIDES.

{Concluded from page 143.)

Now, assuming that we can procure pure sulphate of copper,
and prepare with it a one-sixth strength of Bordeaux mixture or
bouillie Bordelaise, there is an end henceforth to all cavils over the
copper treatment, for the quantity required is so small as not likely
to poison the soil, nor in any way prove detrimental to the welfare
of animals or mankind. Remember the solution of copper sulphate
must be a pure celestial blue, the lime lily white and good. When
mixed — the sulphate of copper solution and the limewash — the
mixture should abide beautifully blue after a few drops of ferro-
cyanide of potassium solution are added. The Bordeaux mixture,
prepared according to the formula given on page 173 of the Journal
of Horticulture, March 2nd, has proved perfectly safe to apply to
Vines and a preventive of black rot caused by the fungus Laestadia
Bidwelli (Ell.). It may, therefore, be concluded that it is equally safe
to apply to all fruit trees or plants subject to fungoid diseases, and as
likely to prove as efficacious as a preventive and curative of blight,
mould, and rusts peculiar to other plants as to those of Vines. For
convenience the formula for the minim Bordeaux mixture may be
repeated : — 1, for small growers, or indoor operations ; 2, for large
growers, or for using over vegetable crops in the garden, allotment,
or field.

1. — Minim Bordeaux Mixture.

Sulphate of copper ... .

• • » • • •

4 ounces

Lime (freshly burned) unslaked

• • • • • »

4 ounces

Water .

.

7^ gallons

2.— Minim Bordeaux
Sulphate of copper .

Mixture.

1 lb.

Lime (freshly burned) unslaked

••• •••

1 lb.

Water .

... ...

CO gallons

Dissolve the copper sulphate in one vessel — crystals may be
placed in a bag, but powdered soonest dissolves — and slake the
lime in another, forming into a thin whitewash ; when cool pour
into the copper solution slowly through a hair sieve ; stir well,
test, and if all right the mixture is ready for use. Note. — The
mixture must be used without delay ; it will not do to prepare it
overnight, or keep it a day or two. This applies to all Bordeaux
mixtures, for the neutralising effect of the lime only lasts a few
hours, after which the mixture will blacken the foliage of plants,
being as disastrous as simple sulphate of copper solution, that not
being safe to use over tender foliage and fruit at a greater strength
than 1 lb. of sulphate of copper to 800 gallons of water.

The Bordeaux mixtures above given should always be used
when the foliage is dry, preferably in the afternoon, but always so
early as to become dry before the dew descends, and invariably by
means of a spraying machine. A handy sprayer, on similar
principles to the Malbec bellows, is a desiderata for amateurs.
Every garden ought to have a M. Yermorel Knapsack pump
“ Eclair.” Allotment holders may club together and purchase one
— in fact, there ought to be one or more in every village let out at
a reasonable charge. Any intelligent labourer can use it.

The uses to which the Bordeaux mixture may be put are pre¬
vention and cure of all fungal infestations on crops. Three
examples must suffice.

1, Onion crops. — There is money in this crop, only keep it from
the Onion mildew (Peronospora Schleideniana). The plants for
seed should be sprayed about the third week in May, and again
early in June. Plants for bulbing must be sprayed just as the
bulbs begin to form, and repeat three weeks afterwards.

166

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 24, 1893.

2, Cereal crops. — Corn mildew (Puccinia graminis), about which
we know very little more than Felice Fontana published in the
year 1767, and certainly no more than resulted from the movement
set on foot by Sir Joseph Banks in 1804, the harvest that year
being alarmingly blighted, and given in pamphlet, with capital
illustrations, by M. F. Bauer. Without setting the Berberry
theory aside, we may just look the simple fact in the face that
“ rust ” always appears conspicuously on the blades of cereals
towards the end of May or early in June, and in localities where
there are no Berberry bushes for miles around. Spray the cereal
crops, especially Wheat, the end of April or early in Mav in the
south, later in the north, and repeat in a fortnight or three weeks.
Remember that the “ rust ” attacks the “ grass,” and that is fosterer
of the grain.

3, Potato Crops. — Spray these, each row on both sides, up one
side and down the other, the first week in July, again the third
week in July, and a third time the second week in August. Early
varieties left for seed will only require one, second early two, and
late crops three dressings.

Arsenate of copper, called Scheele’s green, after its discoverer,
a celebrated chemist, “his own instructor” at Upsal in 1773,
attained some repute as an insecticide on the Continent long before
Paris green, alias emerald green. Schweinforth green was employed
in America, but did not become popular on account of its poisonous
nature. It was first used as a destroyer of black fly on Beans, the
Bean aphis (Aphis rumici.s) being “ hard ” to kill, and became
famous in America through being found effectual in saving the
crop of Potatoes from the Potato or Colorado Beetle (Doryphora
decemlineata). Then it came into use as a remedy against the
canker worm, Codlin moth, and other insects destructive to fruit
trees in America, and during the past five years in this country
against larvje eating the foliage and blossom of fruit trees. All
about Paris green as a remedy for caterpillar infections will be
found in the last ten volumes of the Journal of Horticulture.
There is one thing about Paris green that I cannot understand —
namely, a coat of it on foliage or growths will not kill sucking
insects — aphides, chermes, and red spider ; why house flies have to
imbibe very little of the stuff (arsenic) smeared on “ fly papers ”
before death ensues. Of course aphides and chermes are fixed, or
provided with a skin that throws off the mixture intended for their
destruction ; the fact being that the Paris green mixture never is
interposed between their suckers and the epidermis — or is their
immunity due to their never being reached by the spray ? Spray
upwards for to reach aphides on the under sides of the leaves, and
what happens then ? The Paris green mixture kills red spider, the
Ivy and Gooseberry acari (Bryobia speciosa), gall mites also, only
get it on the buds before they enter them, or on the leaves in
advance of their becoming snug in the galls.

It is not, however, about mixtures that contain a little of
everything in the hope of killing something, but of Paris green
as a combined fungicide and insecticide that I desire to draw
attention.

Orchardists in America and in this country have found that
where Paris green has been used for the prevention and destruction
of insects that the scab fungus (Cladosporium dentriticum) has not
plagued Apples and Pears. In Paris green we have copper, 32-11
per cent., for funguses, and arsenic, 28-56 per cent., with carbon,
6-09 per cent., for insects or their larvae. Here we have all that is
required to kill every parasite preying on crops above ground.
That is the thing — spray our cereal crops with Paris green, 1 lb. of
the paste to 200 gallons of water, adding enough lime to make it
correspond to skim milk, at the latest time it may be used in May
with the Strawsonizer. Turnips can be done the same way, and the
“ fly ” will not eat more than one meal afterwards. Later applica¬
tions can be made with the knapsack pump Eclair, which will serve
for all garden and allotment requirements. The lime must be fresh
slaked, and when cool added to the Paris green mixture slowly
through a hair sieve, stirring the mixture whilst the limewash is
being added. The object of the lime is twofold. 1, To admit of
the better application of the mixture ; 2, cause the mixture to
adhere better and longer to the plants. Instead of the lime 4 lbs.
of flour may be added to the mixture to retain the poison on the
foliage, but it is not equal to the lime, which serves other useful
purposes, the chief being absolute safety to the foliage from the
copper of the arsenite — Paris green — and it suffices if the Paris
green mixture has enough lime stirred in to render it slightly
milky. Care must be taken not to use it over vegetable crops that
will be required for table before the parts dressed have been
allowed time to be washed clean by rains, and the “ paste ” only
should be employed for the mixture, dry Paris green being not
only difficult to mix but dangerous to handle.

Experiments in the treatment of Apple scab were carried on by
Prof. E. S. Goff with Paris green mixture in 1891, and though several
other fungicides and insecticides were tried it proved “ more efficient

in preventing scab and more effective against insects than any of the
other preparations used singly or combined.” This is good news
— too good almost — only it is confirmed by all who have used Paris
green mixture in two or three consecutive years. Spraying, there¬
fore, is a paying concern, for it is better to prevent than to provide
a cure for fungal and insect plagues. Fruit trees are beset by
other fungoid growths besides scab on Apples and cracking in
Pears. Mildew often attacks Apple blossom and its young leaves,
the fungus (Oidium farinosa) preventing the young fruit swelling
and crippling the growths. When a crop of fruit appears certain
caterpillars emerge — not borne on the wings of east winds — from
the eggs. The Codlin moth deposits its eggs at or near the eye of
Apples and Pears before they turn down, and many other depre¬
dators commence their attacks as soon as the buds, foliage, blossoms,
and fruit are sufficiently advanced fox their food. The duty of every
cultivator is to place a barrier between the spoilers and the object
aimed at. Paris green paste, 1 lb. to 320 gallons of water, is gene¬
rally strong enough to use over Apple trees just after the petals
fall, as the foliage is then tenderer than that of Pear trees. Cob Nats
and Filberts, 1 lb. of Paris green to 265 gallons of water, sufficing
for the latter while the foliage is young. Plum and Damson trees.
Currant and Gooseberry bushes bear the mixture full strength,
Paris green 1 lb. to 200 gallons of water, with sufficient fresh made
limewash added to give it a slightly milky appearance, from the
first, and all the foliage after it is fully developed. At the strength
last named it should be sprayed on trees liable to fungoid or
insectal parasites by the time the buds commence swelling in
spring, say at the end of March, earlier or later by a week according
to the season, and it ought not to be used after the flowers expand,
on account of the bees, as well as being dangerous to the fructi¬
fying organs. This is a precautionary measure, but not the least
important of the series. The second spraying should take place
directly the fruit is set and commences to swell, say the first or
second week in June for Apples, but be guided by the condition of
the trees and the infestation, for in case of a severe and early
attack of caterpillars it may be desirable to spray the trees just
before the flowers open, otherwise the pests devour, the flowers —
everything, and repeat the spraying directly the petals have fallen.
This will only be required in exceptional years of caterpillar
infections. Usually four sprayings are sufficient — that is, the two
before mentioned — 1, at the end of March ; 2, early in J une, and
a third a fortnight after the second, with a final one the second
week in July. The latter spray may interfere with the early
Apples and Pears, therefore cultivators must exercise their judg¬
ment and discretion, for it must be understood that no fruit treated
with an arsenical or copper preparation is safe to eat until it has
been washed by rain.

Raspberries are the most susceptible of damage from copper or
arsenite mixtures. Paris green mixture must not be used on them
at a greater strength than advised for the tender foliage of the
Apple tree. They have many enemies, which may be accounted
for from the fact that the latter are allowed to have their “ own
sweet will ” on Raspberry plants. The “ minim ” Bordeaux mix¬
ture may be employed safely against fungal pests, which are not
particularly troublesome in this country ; but foliage biting and
eating creatures are best destroyed by Paris green mixture not
stronger than for Apples, and not applying it later than the full-
sized flower buds appear.

Strawberry plants are sometimes plagued by blight caused by
a fungus (Oidium Balsami, a stage only in the development of
some Erysiphe). The plants subject to the attacks of the parasite
may be sprayed with the “minim” Bordeaux mixture just before
or when the flowers show colour, and repeat directly the fruits are
set ; but it is rare that more than one treatment is necessary. If
Paris green mixture is used it must not be stronger than advised
for Apples trees, and not be applied later than the first “ peep ” of
white blossom in the trusses. — G. Abbey.

THE VALUE OF TREES.

Though it looks as if Brother Jonathan threatened to take
possession ultimately of these happy islands with his corn, his beef,
his millionaires, his redeemed Irish patriots, and his “notions”
generally, it is scarcely likely that we shall ever introduce the
American festival “ Arbor Day ” into the British calendar. The
four national holidays in the United States are, “ The Glorious
Fourth of July,” “Washington’s Birthday,” “ Decoration Day,”
and “ Arbor Day.” “ Decoration Day ” is that consecrated to the
embellishing of the graves of those who fell on both sides during
the Civil War of 1861-65; “Arbor Day” is that on which old
and young go out in parties and plant whole districts of barren
public land with infant timber. In our own colonies similar con¬
ditions have suggested the adoption of so reasonable a custom, and

August 24, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

167

“ Arbor Day,'’ or possibly “ Arbour Day,” may yet become a
recognised festival with old and young in Australia.

This wholesale method of regenerating waste lands is eminently
characteristic of a practical and pushing age, and the consideration
of it naturally leads to the consideration of the work which has
been effected more slowly by prescient individuals among the fore¬
fathers of the English-speaking people. Although Old England
was in parts bountifully clothed by Nature with forest, there are
many districts now presenting a charming panorama of wood, of
field, and of lawn, which four hundred years ago more resembled
those wastes our emigrant kinsmen are seeking to reclaim abroad.
From the descriptions given by foreign travellers of England
during the sixteenth century it would seem as if much of it was
spongy, waste, and open where now the landscape delights the eye
of the visitor in whom familiarity has not bred indifference.
This transformation slowly effected here is being reproduced as
though by magic in other parts of the globe, where a warmer sun
often working upon an irrigated soil develops vegetation with
almost twice the rapidity it does in England. We have heard of
the wonders worked by the Mormons at Salt Lake, and these have
been more than repeated by the settlers at Fresno and Los
Angeles in California, and at Christchurch in New Zealand.

Our Queen had already reigned fourteen years when the Canter¬
bury Pilgrims pitched their tents upon the verge of the great open
moorlands extending for hundreds of miles at the foot of the New
Zealand Alps. It was an immense prairie land, as large as Pied¬
mont, covered with nothing but coarse tussock grass, and lying
between the ocean and a wall of snow-capped mountains. In
summer it was often scourged by a sirocco bearing a simoom from
end to end without encountering a tree to check its sterilising in¬
fluence. Now, for a radius of thirty miles around the Cathedral of
Christchurch, the landscape is as fresh and green as that of Essex,
beset with Willows, Poplars, Acacias, and Eucalypti, and enclosing
dairy farms as fine as those of Holland. Anyone who had gone to
sleep in England and awoke in a drag on the way to the “ New
Zealand Cup ” at Lincoln outside Christchurch, in November, would
merely imagine he had been transported to another part of England.
Year by year the mantle of vegetation heightens, until the day
will come when to the inhabitants near the sea the view of the
distant mountain ranges will become invisible except by ascending
the Cathedral spire.

Such is the magical effect which the hand of man can produce
by erecting a shelter of timber against the influences of unrestricted
nature. But the beneficial influences of planting are not confined
to fostering moisture upon dry prairie lands or even to stopping the
pernicious drifting of sand-dunes as has been done so successfully
on the “ Landes ” of Western France. The ameliorative effect of
trees upon soil is far from being fully realized. The effect oc
certain trees, such as the Eucalyptus, is medicinal and curative on
certain miasmatous land, as we see in the reclamation which is
being made of the Italian Campagna ; and even in our sour boggy
soils the most curiously opposite effects can be produced. Planting
acts in a variety of ways. It makes a dry and shifting soil stable
and moist by intercepting sun heat and breaking the wind. It
makes a sodden soil warmer and sweeter by absorbing much of the
moisture and preventing the refrigerating effect caused by the
impact of cold and drying winds. Indeed if the right kind of tree
can be discovered there seems to be scarcely any complaint of the
soil which planting cannot do something to cure, and we cannot but
admire the good sense and public spirit of the United States where
the question of afforestation is made a matter of national conscience
and national co-operation.

It is not generally known that in wet climates barrenness of
the land is often due to baneful fungoid growths, which tend to
keep it in a condition of bog. It has been noticed in the more
northerly parts of Great Britain that often where a shelter of
trees has been opposed to the winds striking upon a sodden sterile
soil, the outer portion on which the full brunt of the attacks falls
becomes covered with a mossy or lichenous growth, which curiously
enough is absent on the interior trees where one would more
naturally expect it. This would seem to indicate that such planta¬
tions operate as a kind of sieve or strainer of the spawn borne by
the winds, and this theory is borne out by the fact that as the trees
grow up the land behind the trees loses its mossy or boggy
nature, and becomes capable of bearing crops and grasses. Land
robbed of its shelter and left exposed to the winds, even when
laid down in pasture, has been known to deteriorate rapidly, while
that which was sheltered while lying fallow recovered much of its
productive power. This shows that in cold and wet climates the
action of trees can be as beneficial as it is in lands where it is hot
and dry. Indeed, it is marvellous to reflect upon the possibilities
which still lie before the human race in this matter, and of the
transformation which will surely pass over the face of much of the
earth, hitherto regarded as melancholy and useless. — M. H.

MR. M. DAVIS.

Having in view the doubts that have been expressed relative to
the planters of some of the “ Goliaths of Grapedom,” and the various
claims advanced for tracing the origin of the Vines to the ancestors
of present day writers, we have decided that posterity shall know
who the raiser of at least one famous Vine was, also to show what
manner of man he is some thirty years after he inserted the cutting.

Mr. M. Davis is undeniably the raiser of the magnificent Vine at
Manresa House, Roehampton, and has pruned and trained it through¬
out its career. So far as we know there is no man living who can
look on a similar achievement. The mere size of the Vine is some¬
thing to be proud of, but add to this its fine character and splendid
condition, then public recognition of Mr. Davis’ work becomes almost
a duty. We have certainly great pleasure in giving honour to whom
honour is justly due in this case. Thirty years of unremitting atten¬
tion and cultural skill have made the Vine what it is to-day — a veritable

FIG. 25.— ME. M. DAVIS.

giant in the vigour of youth that produces Grapes of first-class quality,
and would produce far more if pressure was resorted to. When in full
bearing there is no finer sight in Grape culture to be seen near London,
and nothing more credita’cle to any gardener.

We do not appear to have any honours for disposal in this country
for a lifetime of work so well done in the form in which it is repre¬
sented in this Vine, but honours galore have been distributed for products
that bear no comparison with this cultural work of Mr. Davis. So far
as we know the Manresa Vine stands alone as the finest in the world
raised and tended by one man from the beginning until now. Mr. Davis
is a successful grower of all kinds of fruit, and as intelligent and
courteous as he is able. Though a very real worker, he is one of
Nature’s gentlemen, and we have not heard of one visitor out of many
return from Manresa gardens and express anything but high approval
of the man and his work. Mr. Davis is an excellent type of a British
gardener.

NOTES BY THE WAY.

A WEEK or two ago I expatiated mildly over the attractions of East
Grinstead, a pleasant little town on the Surrey side of Sussex, and said
a few words about one of its gardens. If I were to content myself with
that a second visit could not be paid without apprehension, for there is
that wholesome rivalry amongst the various gardeners in the district
which does so much to keep up a high standard of work. “ And why ?
each might say ; “ haven’t I a right to be talked about as well as
So-and-so 1 ” Dear sirs all, you have the same claim, and shall have the
same attention, but one at a time, please ; let us go to work rnethodically.
I chatted on the first occasion about pleasant Oakleigh with its fruit

168

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 24, 1893.

cage, and now I cross the road to make a jotting or two about Brock-
hurst, the charming place of Mr. Murchison, where gardener Simmons
gives a welcome and a good account of himself to gardening visitors.

It would be far from easy to find a place with gardens more
undulating than these. I have a lively recollection of climbing some
steepish banks at Abberley side by side with Mr. Arthur Young some
few years ago, and I thought then that a course of athletic training
would not be amiss for helping one to get about in comfort. It is very
much the same — if anything, a little more so — at Brockhurst. It is
really all climbing, not quite of the lope and alpenstock sort, but still
fairly steep, and what it lacks in this respect it makes up for in
quantity. There are banks and slopes whichever way you turn. All
this, though it may be somewhat tiring to those who have not been
dieted and sweated and bustled about as though they were going in for
a university boat race, gives very unusual features and presents aspects
of considerable charm. There is a sameness about level ground as there
is about smooth water, and one appreciates an uneven surface as he does
the foam-tipped swell on broad ocean expanses — always providing there
is no sea-sickness about.

The house is a long, somewhat low informal structure. I do not
know what style it is in, for the difierence between the Gothic and
Renaissance is about the extent, I grieve to say, of my architectural
knowledge. But I do know that it is handsome, cool and inviting. There
is nearly as much difference btween houses as there is between gardens,
some being massive, formal and cold, with a frowning and gloomy
aspect, such as are fitted by a setting of clipped Yews and the like ; others
rambling, natural, and comfortable looking, with which an undulating
garden surface, luxuriant shrubs and bright mixed borders at once
associate themselves in the mind. Mr. Murchison’s house is one of the
latter type, and a more charming country residence is not easily
imagined. It is a home, not a mansion. The conservatory attached is
lofty, spacious and cool, being heavily draped with green creeper
growths, and softened with the filmy humidity of Ferns, but not devoid of
brightness, either, for well grown flowering plants are sufficiently repre¬
sented to prevent any suspicion of sombreness. I have never entered a
more attractive conservatory, and Mr, Simmons may be pardoned if he
feels somewhat proud of it, but he is one of those modest men who hide
their feelings from the vulgar gaze, and so I cannot say what his senti¬
ments thereon may be. _

The residence faces north and south. I am a little dubious as to
which would be styled the front, but accord that honour to the broad
sweep of windows and entrances looking upon the southern hills. A
beautiful view may be had from them, one of the most delightful with¬
out a doubt in the county. There is absolutely nothing to obstruct it.
The garden sinks away below the walls in many a grassy terrace and
steep declivity, and beyond it stretch the fields and woods, which melt
away at the base of the wolds. It must present a charming spectacle
of soft tender pastoral beauty in the glow of early morning, not less
pleasing than the mellow aspect of meadow and forest when the heat of
the day is upon the country side. I did not see it under either condi¬
tion, but under the tearful mantle of a heavy and protracted rainstorm ;
but it is there, and no exaggeration of imagination is needed to invest it
with features of beauty, reposefulness, and charm.

Mr. Simmons will, I feel sure, forgive me for not going into details
of his excellent flower gardening under the circumstances. I must
sorrowfully admit that it is not within my scope to recall from memory
every bed in every place I enter — would that it were. And as to notes,
why they would have presented much the aspect of the tear-punctured
missives which writers of love stories have familiarised us with, even to
the extent of being undecipherable, had I attempted to take them in
the pelting storm. It was worthy work of its kind, particularly the sub¬
tropical beds, which linger with me as exceptionally well arranged and
admirably furnished examples. Nor were the conditions favourable for
noting down the names and altitudes of the many good Conifers with
which the grounds were studded, or for a description of the shrubs over¬
hanging the lake. Personal wishes are as nothing when the rain falls
with that tropical luxuriance and steadfastness which make umbrellas
more sighed for than lead pencils, and mackintoshes more desirable than
notebooks. I am not prepared to say that the drops were as large as
eggs, which is the sort of thing Clark Russell tells us about in those
wonderful sea stories of his, but the rain fell long and with a waspish
persistency. I must sum up the gardens and grounds by saying that
they have been most judiciously laid out and planted, and are a not
unworthy reward for the thought and care which both master and man
have bestowed upon them. _

There is not a great amount of glass at Brockhurst. One would
expect rather more from a place of its size. This, however, only affects
a writer in that it leaves him less to say than he would otherwise have
ab his command. What space there is is made the most of. The Peaches
and Nectarines were eloquent with the language of health, foliage, and
abundant fruit. The main plant house was as full of fine, strong, clean,
and healthy material as it could be comfortably packed with ; indeed,
the thought strikes me that there must have been as much ingenuity
exercised to get the plants in as skill to grow them so well. To be sure
it is a hard thing to throw healthy plants away. A gardener no more
likes to do it than parents do to cast their children out upon the world.

Amongst various good things in one of the houses I noticed a batch of
a Carnation much thought of locally, named Pope’s Seedling. It is a
very floriferous tree with lemon, rose-flaked flowers, but 1 am told often
throws seifs. It appears to be a very useful variety worth seeing in
other parts. _

Brockhurst boasts a well-stocked kitchen garden and a noble
array of fruit trees, but as the concentrated iniquities of a score of
shower baths had done their worst upon us by the time we got amongst
them, we were fain to hurry through. The place is in good order all
over, and if the gardener is as satisfied with his handiwork as he might
justly be, he is far from being a discontented man. All the soft water
there was about moved neighbour Dunn, who was one of the saturated
ones present, to dilate on his favourite theory of the value of rain water
and the absolute worthlessness of hard. The young Oakleigh gardener
is as smart and promising a man as I know, but he really has most
eccentric ideas in respect to water. According to him a nice strong
solution of arsenic would be about as nourishing to a plant as hard
water. A medical gentleman with a strong antipathy to alcohol
recently propounded the statement that there is about the same amount
of support in the bite of a mad dog as there is in a glass of stout. Mr.
Dunn gives hard water about an equal value for plants. Of course he
does not forget to let loose a deluge of arguments on the head of anyone
who questions his theory. What does he say to putting some of them
in print? _

It would be bad for town gardeners if hard water were as injurious
to plants as some of our friends assert. What, I wonder, would the
many earnest and persevering amateurs do whose plants never receive
any except hard water, and in a season like the present, too 1 Gardening
for them would be a more troubled pastime than it is now, and it is
already full enough of dififlculties and drawbacks. — W. P. W.

SCAELET RUNNER BEANS NOT SETTING.

I HAVE read with much interest what has recently appeared in the
Journal on this subject, and I desire to take this opportunity of thanking
all those correspondents who have kindly replied to my inquiry (page 80).
There is, however, so much differing among the doctors that I am yet at
a loss how to decide ; still, I am thankful for the information contained
in their communications.

In my letter I naturally connected the scarcity of humble bees with
the scarcity of Beans, having read at some time that their presence was
necessary in order to secure a crop of red Clover seed, but now that I
have observed more closely the way they work at Bean flowers, I do not
think they are instrumental in the “ pollination.” The proboscis is
directed to the very base of the corolla, and not towards the reproductive
organs. On the other hand, I cannot agree with those who consider
these insects injurious to the organs or the embryo Beans, for I have
known seasons that it was next to an impossibility to find a flower whose
calyx was not pierced by them, yet Beans were abundant.

One writer thinks that the earlier blooms failed to set owing to the
excessive heat and atmospheric dryness. Granted, but why was there
not a change for the better, say in a w'eek after the rain came, and the
consequent lowering of temperature ? Whereas my Beans did not
begin to set until the Slst of July. This improvement continued for
about ten days, when the flowers began falling again to some extent.
During that period we have had a good downpour, and to all appearance
the weather was perfect. A neighbour living a mile distant called my
attention to this circumstance, when we at once proceeded to examine
my own Beans, and found it even so.

I agree with Mr. Abbey that drought and poverty will cause the
flowers to drop wholesale. Probably I have not grown so many crops of
Beans as he has, but I have grown about tHirty, and I have never before
failed to get a fair amount of pods by copious waterings. Indeed, I
had come to regard the Bean crop as a certainty if plenty of water could
be given.

Among other causes advanced are over-luxuriance, growing in en¬
closed spaces, thrips and other insects infesting the plants. With regard
to the two former reasons, it appears from the writers on page 106, and
from my own inquiries and observations in this neighbourhood, that no
matter what the treatment, position, or state of the fertility of the soil,
the results are pretty much alike. I certainly found a few yellow thrips in
some of the flowers I examined, but not enough, I think, to do any
serious damage, and even if it were so I cannot account for their sudden
disappearance about the end of the month, which we must suppose
took place, thus allowing the organs to fulfil their functions. — T. S.,
Bristol.

THREE DAYS’ HOLIDAY IN THE ISLE OF WIGHT.

Abriving at Ryde I went by train to Shanklin, distance ten miles,
and near the Chine who should I meet but our old gardening friend, Mr.
C. Orchard, manager of the Bembridge Hotel and gardens. With him
was Mr. W. Drover of Fareham, well known as one of the leading
Chrysanthemum growers. We adjourned to the Chine Hotel for lunch,
and I soon found these gentlemen were on business, having to act as
judges at the Shanklin Horticultural Show, held in the beautiful grounds
of Ryleston, kindly lent by Mons. Spartali. At the outset I must say of
all the local shows I ever attended I never was in such charming grounds
and scenery. The grounds stand well up on the cliffs and overlook the

August 24, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

169

Chine Pier, the Spa Hotel, the splendid sands, on which you can walk
to Sandown, some five miles, the beautiful white cliffs, distance about
twelve miles, and the coast as far as the eye can see. I am told that on
a clear day one can see Brighton.

Passing to the tents I was very much interested in the exhibits. One
tent was well filled with stove and greenhouse plants, including Palms,
Zonal Pelargoniums, Ferns, Coleuses, Fuchsias, and very fine speci¬
mens of Araucaria excelsa, well feathered and clean, some of the finest
I ever saw. The fruit tent most noticeable for the Grapes, Melons,
Peaches ; the Nectarines the finest seen this season. The cut flowers
were good for the season. Show and Fancy Dahlias, Marigolds, Roses,
Asters, ladies’ sprays, and bouquets. The vegetable tent for professional
gardeners contained good Celery, Cauliflowers, Tomatoes, autumn and
spring Onions. The cottagers’ tent was well filled. I notice by the
schedule that no less than 120 classes in all are provided. Great
credit is due to the Honorary Secretary, Mr. A. Carter, and to the
Committee for the efficient manner in which everything was carried out.

I remained till the evening, when a promenade concert took place, and
the grounds were lit up by fairy lamps. I enjoyed the concert with
Mr. C. Orchard, who left me to go to Bembridge, and I went on to
Ventnor, distance four miles, to prepare for the next day.

The followdng day I walked from the esplanade on the cliffs to
Steephill Bay, which is a charming walk. On the right under the hill
is Steephill Castle, late the county residence of Dudley Hamburgh, Esq.
Following my walk I come to the Ventnor Hospital, which was opened
by the Queen. This is a splendid block of buildings with about 12 acres
of pleasure grounds attached and overlooking the sea. Still continuing
my walk, I came through Bank End Farm, which is one of the prettiest
and most compact farms under the undercliff. The front of the house is
covered with Roses, and of a mild season Roses have been picked at
Christmas, Mr. Truelove is now the occupier of the farm, and many
years ago was the gardener and steward to the Hon. Mrs. Dudley
Pelham of St. Lawrence. I then get in the high road, and walk along
the undercliff, and come to the pretty church of St. Lawrence. This old
church is one of the smallest in England, which every visitor to the
island ought to see. The gates being open, I walked round the little
churchyard, when I saw on some of the tombstones names that took my
memory back to my boyhood. I pass on for about half a mile, and
then return for Ventnor, passing the new church of St. Lawrence, which
stands on high ground overlooking the sea. 1 then get to the Hon.
Mrs. Dudley Pelham’s gardener’s lodge.

I introduced myself to the gardener, and was received by every
courtesy. I found he was gathering Figs, which one could pick by the
bushel. The kitchen garden lays well up under the Down, the extent
being about 4 acres. Apple, Pear, and Plum trees were broken down
by the heavy crops. Wasps are very troublesome, and Mr. Norton, the
gardener, showed me two great bottles he had emptied that morning
going through the plant houses. I see plants are grown mostly for
conservatory decoration, and they are remarkably clean. Vineries
contain Black Hamburghs, Muscat, and Alicantes, which were well done.
The Black Hamburghs were well finished, and had extra sized berries.
Tomatoes and Melons are also finely grown. Chrysanthemums on the
cut-back system look well. In the pleasure grounds Roses are well
done here, having secured many first prizes at the Undercliff Shows.
The grounds looked neat, and the beds very gay. Among the most
noticeable were the beds of Henry Jacoby Pelargonium, the best I
have seen this season. Many people have no idea what the Island
gardeners have to contend with to get their manure and things carried
to the places required. They have to hand-cart everything, which
makes labour very hard. I leave my friend and return him many
thanks, and arrive back to Ventnor for dinner and tea, highly pleased
with my walk, and finish out my evening on the pier.

My last day I took a walk early in the morning, and found Mr.
Sheath, the gardener to Mis. Mitchell, at Macrocarpa Gardens, Under¬
cliff, near Ventnor, among his Begonias, which he has the finest
selection of seedlings in the Island. Some of the blooms measure 6 inches
over, of perfect form. Mr. Sheath tells me he started with Messrs.
Cannell’s strain, and keeps on improving both double and single. I pass
on to a fine house of Black Hamburgh Grapes and Buckland Sweet¬
water, which are well finished. The stove plant houses contain some
very fine specimen Crotons, Eucharis, Tree Ferns, Bougainvillea, and
Stephanotis. Plants are largely grown for decoration to supply a
charming conservatory attached to the house, overlooking the sea. The
grounds are not very extensive, nor is the kitchen garden ; but every¬
thing looked neat, and a credit to the gardener.

My next walk was to Messrs. H. Drover & Sons’ nurseries. The Hillside
nurseries are mostly devoted to cut blooms, and the grounds very neatly
laid out, Mr. H. Drover was foreman and manager at the Lower
Grounds, Aston Park, near Birmingham, for many years. Most noticeable
were some very fine Cyclamens, double Primulas, and pot Roses. The
St. Boniface Nurseries are composed of fruit houses, which are devoted
to Black Hamburghs, Muscats, Buckland Sweetwater, and Alicantes.
There are two long ranges of houses 125 feet, one being filled with
Peaches and Pineapple Nectarines, These are well done and clean.
The other part of the ground is filled with a good selection of vegetables
to supply the shop, which is managed by the son. I must say these
houses are built under the Down, and the soil looks nothing but hard
rock and chalk. The view from these nurseries is the best I have
seen, and if any gardener has the privilege of a three days’ holiday I
should advise him to take the same route, as I am sure the gentlemen
I have mentioned would be pleased to see him. I return back by the

train to the pier head for the boat to Southsea Pier, where I slop two
hours, finally securing a train at Portsmouth Station, and arrive home
safely, feeling better for my holiday. — A Lover of Scexery and
Gardens.

Mr. Laxton and His Work Among Roses.

Under the above heading a writer in your issue of August 17th
enumerates the Roses raised by the late Mr. Laxton, and states " Roses
were not overlooked, his first being named Charles Darwin, followed
by Annie Laxton,” and the article goes on to say that Duchess of
Bedford was also raised by him. May I be permitted to point out that
Annie Laxton is an 1869 Rose, and Charles Darwin came out in 1879,
ten years later 1 Also may I say that Duchess of Bedford was raised by
a neighbour of mine, Mr. Postansof Brentwood, and not by Mr. Laxton?
— J. H. P.

National Rose Society.

In reply to Mr. Mawley I beg to say that my private circular was
sent out on the 2l8t and 22nd July, and I repeat that the Secretaries
were amongst the very first to receive it. Their public reply was in the
Journal of the 3rd August. The objection to such a reply is in the fact
that it is never advisable nor necessary to make a public question of
shortcomings in the management or working of any society, but as the
Secretaries think otherwise they must take the consequences of the
subject being discussed in the gardening Press. Mr. Mawley, more
hihernico, says “ by rights” I should have entered into certain personal
explanations in my circular. I purposely avoided any personal attitude
in that paper so as to show no bias whatever. As I have already said,
the result of the inquiry is satisfactory both in the character and number
of replies. — Charles J. Grahame, hriglit stone, I. Wight.

In Memoriam — Death of the Rev. J. M. Fuller.

Although not occupying a very prominent position in the horti¬
cultural world, there are many, especially amongst the members of the
National Rose Society, who will hear of Mr. Fuller’s death with the
deepest regret. At his delightful vicarage at Bexley Mr. and Mrs.
Fuller for many years successfully cultivated the Rose, and were
frequent exhibitors at the local shows in the neighbourhood, and also
at the National Society’s shows. Indeed, of one of the shows in the
neighbourhood, my fellow judge used to say — in sporting phrase — ‘Mrs.
Fuller first, and the rest nowhere.” Mr. Fuller was a constant attendant
at the meetings of the Committee of the N.R.S., and for some years
had been one of its Vice-Presidents, in which capacity he frequently
took the chair. He always performed these duties with the utmost
courtesy and in the most businesslike manner.

Mr. Fuller was an erudite scholar and an active clergyman. He was
kind and genial in his ways, and there is a large circle of friends who will
greatly miss him, and in the N.R.S. it will be difficult to replace one
who by his courtesy and geniality was ever welcomed.— D., Deal,

The Fragrance of Roses.

In my recent contribution to the Journal upon this special subject I
unconsciously omitted the names of two highly fragrant Roses which
should most assuredly have been included in my selection, viz., Caroline
Testout and Viscountess Folkestone ; the latter one of the most
successful productions of the late Mr. Bennet, who should rank hereafter
as one of the greatest rosarians England has produced. I much regret
that his Roses were not more universally appreciated during his lifetime ;
but there can be no question that they have risen very high in popular
estimation since his death. That such splendid acquisitions as Her
Majesty, Mrs. John Laing, Lady Mary Fitzwilliam, and Grace Darling,
most of which are exceedingly fragrant, are steadily increasing in
popularity is a fact which must be sufficiently manifest to every earnest
student of contemporary horticultural literature, Mrs. John Laing
already ranks as one of the four leading Hybrid Perpetuals ; but I
think that Marie Baumann for perfect sweetness and faultless form,
likewise I may add for matchless productiveness, should be assigned the
premier place.

With what your contributor “ Y. B. A. Z.” says on page 146 of the
value of Tea Roses as almost perpetual bloomers I thoroughly agree.
Thanks to such admirable varieties as Souvenir de S. A. Prince, Belle
Lyonnaise, L’Ideal, Gloire de Dijon, Cheshunt Hybrid, Gustave Regis,
and Etoile de Lyon, I have been blessed with a constant succession of
beautiful blooms from the end of April till the present time. One of
my favourite Tea Roses is Perle des Jardins. I would esteem it one of
our finest varieties, but for its very remaikable formation, by reason of
which it does not open well. I may state that my recent incidental
reference to the evanescence of Roses (m my Viola article, page 120},
was concerned chiefly with certain utterly unsatisfactory and absolutely
disappointing Hybrid Perpetuals of no value whatever, which should
I think be relegated without mercy to the regions of oblivion ; other¬
wise they should be denominated in the catalogues “ Fine Weather

170

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 24, 1893.

Varieties,” and I think it should also be mentioned by their raisers
that they must be very carefully shaded from the sun.

I am glad to find so eminent a rosarian as Mr. Benjamin R. Cant, of
Colchester, vindicating the supreme merit of Ernest Metz, a Rose which
has a great future before it, if I have not deceived myself regarding its
claims. Souvenir de S. A. Prince is another exquisite variety which has
not yet received adequate recognition. Why it should be regarded as
inferior to The Bride, I cannot conceive ; for it is unquestionably a
purer white Tea than its rival, and in other respects it is at least equally
impressive.

I have been informed by the correspondent to whom I have referred,
that exhibitors as a rule do not attach any importance to the presence
or absence of fragrance in a Rose. Such, however, is manifestly not the
opinion of Mr. Cranston of Hereford, who was first with Alfred Colomb
at the National Rose Show. “Every Rose” he aflfirms (in his book)
“ should have fragrance ; ” and I think that his verdict should be
regarded as decisive. Unquestionably there are many magnificent
Roses, for the most part descended from Baroness Rothschild, which
are inodorous ; nevertheless I adhere to my original theory that the
absence of this attribute is, even in such instances, a serious limitation.
—David R. Williamson.

HORTICULTURE IN SOUTH AFRICA.

We extract the following, written by a visitor, from the catalogue of
Messrs. W. & C. Gowie, as it indicates horticultural progress in our
African empire : —

This firm of seed and plant merchants, Grahamstown, has within the
past few years secured a reputation throughout South Africa, and in the
coming impetus to the fruit industry will take a great part. Mr. W.
Gowie is a standing example of what may be accomplished by enterprise
and unflagging industry out of small beginnings. He commenced his
career as horticulturist by the purchase of an old garden of about two
acres. This he completely trenched, converting it into rich ground for
the growing of Roses and other flowers, all bis work being distinguished
by complete thoroughness. Then as demands upon him grew he leased
a part of Oatlands Park Estate, and last year he and his brother, who
joined him as a business partner, became proprietors of that estate,
which occupies a large portion of the western slope of the basin wherein
Grahamstown is cradled. Long may they enjoy the fruits of their
enterprise. Oatlands Park is 1200 acres in extent. It embraces the
whole of a well- wooded valley, and contains a variety of fine natural
and ornamental scenery. Each slope of the valley is thickly covered
w'ith Mimosa trees and thick bushes, while the bed of the valley holds
two or three large dams, overshadowed by large forest trees, and that
portion of the stream not required for irrigation flows into a shallow
basin, from the centre of which springs a cluster of tall Poplars. A
long line of Gum Trees marks the boundary on the town side, and on the
slope, opposite the house, a small space is reserved for the town. This
is known as Prince Alfred’s Park, the Duke of Edinburgh when a lad
having, on a visit to the town, planted an Oak on that spot. That was
when Oatlands was the property of Sir Walter Currie, a great sportsman
and warrior, who formed that fine corps the original F.A.M. Police.
The foreground in the illustration was at that time wild land, and some
years later Sir Walter introduced therein the first pair of ostriches ever
kept in a domestic state in the colony. No one of the many hundreds
who saw those birds, however, dreamt of the use to which they could be
put, and no effort was made to breed them for their feathers.

Now where the ostriches built their nests a garden glows in all the
beauty of its Roses and budding fiuit trees. Messrs. Gowie Brothers
have, however, only as yet worked one corner of their fine estate — that
nearest the town — where they have some 30 acres completely trenched
and well covered with flowers, ornamental trees and shrubs, and thou¬
sands of young fruit trees.

In the foreground is a field of mixed Roses, thousands in number,
from which, during the season, large numbers are despatched by rail
and post to all parts of the country. The Rose thrives well in South
Africa, and 1 saw many a small plain iron house in Kimberley and
Johannesburg redeemed from ugliness by magnificent Roses. Beyond
this glowing field of white and red there is on the right a smooth lawn
interspersed with ornamental trees, and above that the glass houses for
propagating, potting, including the Fern house, wherein is one of the
finest and most beautiful collection of African and foreign Ferns I have
seen, all flourishing splendidly, and most of them in demand for the
adornment and beautifying of ladies’ boudoirs. Out in the open near
the signpost were trees of the English Hawthorn in bloom and rare
plants usually found in hothouses, but here thriving in the open, one
of them covered with a mass of white and scarlet bloom. Beyond to the
left is the fruit nursery, where are some 15,000 young fruit trees,
comprising Orange, 30 varieties of Pear, 20 of Peach, 36 of Apple, 6 of
Nectarine, 10 of Apricot, besides Almonds, Walnuts, and Medlars. Here
were 1400 grafts of Orange trees three and four years old, raised from
the pip, and then budded or grafted, Mr. W. Gowie having completely
mastered this art. Of course he has noticed the gradual growth of the
export trade in fruit, and is turning his attention to trees which will
produce the best crops for the London market, and has made a start
with 2000 Apples, the “ Late Bloomer,” which yields a beautiful dark
red fruit of fine flavour. There is no blight about the trees, they were
clean, healthy, and just bent upon doing their work in the world by
producing fruit.

There had been a great demand on Mr. Gowie for Orange trees, and
he had almost sold out the whole of his stock of three and four year old

trees, many of them going to Capetown, where a few years back the
Australian bug had destroyed thousands of trees. I may remark that an
enemy has been found to the Dorthesia in the ladybird insect, and at
Uitenhage one gentleman has bred these insects with the laudable object
of supplying them to owners of Orange groves threatened by the bug.
In a few months the ladybirds will clear out the pest, lock, stock, and
barrel, old and young, and then, having eaten the enemy, they settle the
danger which might arise from a plague of ladybirds by eating each other.

THE PLATYCODONS.

My note on page 145 was written before I had seen Mr. E. Moly-
neux’s article, or I would have referred to it at the time. ^ I have no
doubt the plant referred to by your esteemed contributor is the white
variety of P. grandiflorum, and not the new white form, which is a
seedling from P. Mariesi and is said to be exactly like the parent except
in colour. It was offered by Hillebrand and Bredemeier of Pallanza
under the name of “ P. Mariesi album,” and in the catalogue is said to
attain a height of “ 15 to 20 centimetres,” (equalling about 6 to 8 inches).

For garden purposes the Platycodons may be divided into P.
autumnalis, growing sometimes to nearly 3 feet in height, and flower¬
ing later than the others ; this is blue. P. grandiflorum, sometimes
2 feet in height, although generally dwarfer. Of this there are the
following forms — single blue, double blue, single whitO and double
white. P. g. nobilis with large pale blue flowers, and P. g. striatum,
with striped flowers, are named in some continental catalogues, but I
have never met with them in cultivation. • , • i ^

P. Mariesi will generally be found growing about 9 inches in height,
and the form exhibited by Messrs. Paul appears to be an extremely
dwarf one for the plant as grown in this country. Mr. Paul is quite
correct in saying that P. Mariesi is from Japan. In the “ Dictionary of
Gardening,” P. autumnalis is considered synonymous with P. grandi¬
florum, which is given as growing from 6 to 12 inches in height (?) P.
Mariesi is given as a form of P. grandiflorum. The Platycodons are
still occasionally met with under Schroder’s name of Wahlenbergia.

S. Aknott.

Platycodon gkandifloeum Mariesi.

In my notice of this plant on page 127 a mistake has crept in, which

1 attribute to transcribing my notes. The white form of P. g.
Mariesi is a scarce plant growing not more than 6 inches high. P.
grandiflora alba is the variety to which I alluded as growing nearly

2 feet high.— E. Molynedx.

Platycodon Mariesi alba.

I BEG to enclose a plant of the Platycodon Mariesi alba mentioned
by Mr. Molyneux in his notes on page 127 of Journal, which was also
referred to on page 146, as being very scarce in England. I happen to
have a few dozen plants which flowered well with me this year. The
plant I send was cut quite close to the ground. — B. Ladhams, Shirley.

[The specimen was 6 inches in height and appeared to have been
flowering freely.]

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

Scientific Committee. — At the last meeting of the Scientiflc
Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society, D. Morris, Esq., C.M.G.,
occupied the chair.

Antliracnose {Sphaeeloma ampelinum'). — Specimens of Grapes from
a garden near Dorking were exhibited suffering from this disease. Mr.
G. Massee, of Kew, who determined the disease, stated that the Vines
were affected by “a mild form of Anthracnose,” which is caused by a
fungus called Sphaceloma ampelinum. Be Bary (“ Bot. Zeit,,” 1873).
The fruit of the fungus is developed during the winter, hence before
this period all diseased portions should be removed, and furthermore
such portions should be cut well back, as the mycelium is perennial,
and works backwards from the young shoots which it first attacks.

The Chairman stated that no one knew until a few weeks ago that
this terrible Vine disease was in England; but now it was reported
from an Edinburgh garden as well as from Dorking. In America the
disease was most deadly, and it was also the source of much trouble on
the Continent. Notwithstanding the above statement, it is possible
that the disease has been lingering for at least two or three years in this
country, as Mr. R. D. Blackmore, of Teddington, called attention to it
at the Grape Conference held at Chiswick in September, 1890. In the
“Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society,” vol. xiii., p. 49, Mr.
Blackmore said a disease which attacked his Vines, “resembled
Anthracnose,” although the symptoms were not quite identical. The
tip of the shoot is first attacked, and the crinkles of the unexpanded
leaf, which becomes of a dirty wa.sh-leather colour, and loses its pellu-
cidity ; then the leaves that are expanded further down the shoot
become cupped and concave on the lower side, convex on the upper,
and lose their grailing. All the shoot becomes dull, and its crispness is
gone ; and if pinched it indents without breaking. The disease, unless
checked at the outset, descends the stem very quickly, runs into the
older wood, and destroys the Vine.” The specimen submitted to the
Committee had the canes, fruitstalks, and berries affected with dark
brownish blotehes and spots, while the leaves were of a dull greyish
tint, shaded here and there with brown on the under surfaee. As a
remedy it was suggested that Vines suspected of the disease should be
dusted with sulphur in the spring time, and later on a mixture of
sulphur and lime should be applied judiciously. In some places on the
Continent a wash of sulphate of iron is used for the stems. Any
Vines now suffering badly from “ anthracnose ” should be immediately

August 24, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

171

destroyed by fire to prevent the disease spreading. It may be mentioned
that Mr. Blackmore (“ Journal Royal Horticultural Society ”) plunged
an infected shoot into a can of strong liquid manure ; and this arrested
the evil, and after two or three such dippings sound growth was
renewed. The manure should be undiluted and strong.

Primula Poissoni. — Mr. G. F. Wilson exhibited a plant with several
■flower-scapes, one of which bore six whorls of purple flowers.

Events of the Week. — Apart from the four days’ Show which
opens at the Agricultural Hall, Islington, under the auspices of the
Royal Horticultural Society, on Tuesday, August 29th, but few events
of horticultural interest will take place in the metropolis during the
ensuing week. A further reference to the Exhibition is given in
another paragraph on this page.

- The Weather in London. — After the abnormal heat of last

week a change in the temperature has been generally welcomed. As
mentioned in the leading article of this issue, 95° were recorded at
Greenwich Observatory in the shade on Friday last ; but on Saturday
the thermometer fell to 75° in the metropolis. A little rain fell on
Monday morning and also on Tuesday afternoon. Wednesday opened
showery, and at the time of going to press the weather appears
unsettled.

- Agricultural Hall Show. — On Tuesday, August 29th,

the great Show of plants, flowers, fruits, and horticultural sundries will
be opened at the Agricultural Hall, Islington, by the Royal Horticul¬
tural Society, and will remain open to the public until the night of
September Ist. The members of the Fruit, Floral, and Orchid Com¬
mittees will meet on the 29th inst, at 11 A.M. precisely, but will be
admitted at the Barford Street entrance as early as ten o’clock. They
are particularly requested to wear the badges given out at the last
Temple Show, and to have their Fellows’ pass or tickets with them.
We are requested to state that as the catalogue of the Show must go to
press on Monday, it is hoped that all exhibitors will have given par¬
ticulars as to their exhibits by that day to the Superintendent of the
R.H.S. Gardens, Chiswick, as otherwise they cannot possibly appear in
the catalogue.

- Lady Bird Tomato. — Although I knew this to be in many

respects an excellent Tomato, I was quite unaware until I saw it recently
growing in a house at Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons’ Eynsford Nursery
what an extraordinary cropper it was. Growing here by the side of
such sterling varieties as CannelTs Perfection, Ham Green Favourite,
and Hackwood Park Prolific, it completely eclipsed them as regards
weight of crop. The fruits are, however, not of such good shape as either
Perfection or Ham Green, though they are equally as rich in colour.
The growth made by Lady Bird is far stouter and more robust looking
than any of the others, and the crop must have been at least twice as
heavy. I am surprised that more is not heard of this Tomato, as to my
mind it is one of the finest that has been introduced during the past
three or four years. It was figured in the Journal for January 5th,
1893, at page 15.— H. W.

- Melon Blenheim Orange. — Now there are so many varieties

annually introduced the value of this high-class Melon appears to be
overlooked, but I am yet inclined to think that it ranks foremost in its
section for all-round properties — namely, handsome shape and fine
netting, high quality, good constitution, and free setting. I have a
recollection of the fine fruits grown by Mr. Iggulden at Marston House
some few years since on the extension system of training, many of them
weighing 6 lbs. and upwards each. Cut from plants in full foliage they
were unbeaten in the best competition. At Heywood its value seems to
be fully appreciated, for calling there recently I saw one house devoted
exclusively to this variety, the fruits averaging from 2 to 3 lbs. each.
The plants were placed about 1 foot or so apart, and kept to single
stems j and although this particular house is a small one, over forty
fruits were swelling, and furnished with the perfect net so characteristic
of the variety. It is good for growing in frames in summer under
restricted treatment, but to see it in its best condition it should be
grown on a trellised roof of a heated structure. — W, S., Rood Ashton.

- An Annual Outing. — The employes of Messrs. William

Cutbush & Son of Highgate, London, N., and Barnet, Herts, held their
outing on Saturday, August 19fch, on which occasion they went to
Hastings, where an enjoyable day was spent.

- Vines in France. — On account of the intense heat at Medoc

and Bordeaux the Vines, says a correspondent, have become completely
ripe during the past week. At the Chateau Margaux the Grapes are
already being gathered. It is estimated that the heat has spoilt 25 per
cent, of the vintage, which, in spite of this loss, remains unusually
large.

- Pink Ernest Ladhams. — I send a few blooms of new

perpetual-flowering Pink Ernest Ladhams, which is now as full of buds
and blossom as in spring. I have never been without bloom since it
was raised four years since, and it forces admirably. A recent storm
has somewhat damaged the blooms, as the plants are growing quite
in the open. — B. Ladhams, Shirley. [A beautiful border Pink with
large fragrant blossoms.]

- Tender and True Runner Bean.— The public ought to

be greatly indebted to Messrs. Sutton & Sons for the introduction of
this splendid novelty. The seed resembles the ordinary French Bean.
Canadian Wonder sown at the same time is all over. Tender and True
is covered to a height of 4 feet with well shaped pods about the size of
those of Canadian Wonder, and is likely to continue cropping until
frost cuts it down. This Bean is likely to be much heard of in the
near future. — R.

- A New Cactus Dahlia. — At the South of Scotland Horticul¬
tural Society’s Show at Dumfries on 15th and IGth inst., Messrs. Dobbie
and Co. of Rothesay exhibited a new Cactus Dahlia named Ivanhoe. It
is the first of a new type, being single and having sharply pointed, some¬
what twisted petals. The colour is a beautiful rose, and for decorative
purposes it will certainly be much in demand. Ivanhoe is a charming
novelty, and was greatly admired. — S. A.

- SiDALCEA PEDATA. — This was the most striking plant in an

exhibit of hardy herbaceous flowers by Mr. Lister of Rothesay at the
same Show. It is a beautiful Malva-like flower of a pretty blush pink
colour. I can find no reference to this plant, but was informed that it
grew about 3 feet in height. For exhibition purposes it looks as if it
would be invaluable. — S. A.

- Carnation Lady Nina Balfour.— This new Carnation was

exhibited with a number of others by Laing «fc Mather of Kelso. They
were arranged in bunches with their own foliage. Lady Nina Balfour
is undoubtedly a beautiful flower of a most attractive pink colour, and if it
possesses the qualities claimed for it by the firm distributing it will soon
be widely grown. A bright scarlet self named Dundas Scarlet in the
same exhibit pleased me very much. — S. A.

- Hardy Flowers at Dumfries Show.— At this Show on

15th and 16th inst. six exhibitors competed for the prize for twenty -four
spikes or bunches of hardy herbaceous plants. The first prize was
awarded to Mr. J. Harper, gardener to Mrs. Maxwell-Witham of Kirk-
connell, with a good collection, arranged in a most effective manner.
Among the most noteworthy plants was the larger and better of the two
forms of Rudbeckia or Echinacea purpurea. The second went to Mr.
J. Wilson, gardener to J. Davidson, Esq., Summerville, who had perhaps
more variety, but must have lost several points for arrangement. Third
Mr. W. Carruthers, gardener to Capt. Stewart of Shambellie. In the
class for six spikes the prizes went to Mr. W. Edgar, an amateur, and
Mr. W. Carruthers. — S. Arnott.

- A New Agricultural College. — The Kent County Council

have completed the arrangements by which they propose to extend
their scheme of technical education, by the establishment, jointly with
the Surrey County Council, of an Agricultural College at Wye. The
idea is to provide a centre for agricultural science and practical
instruction, at which not only will instruction be given to resident and
non-resident scholars, but from its professional staff will be drawn
lecturers to visit the towns and villages of Kent and Surrey, while the
College itself will become a seat of scientific research and examination
of soils, manures, seeds, and products. The acquisition of the premises
at Wye was at the suggestion of the Earl of Winchilsea. The govern¬
ment of the College is vested in Lord Winchilsea, as Hereditary
Governor, nine representatives of the Kent County Council, six of the
Surrey County Council, two of the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge
one of the Royal Agricultural Society, and one of the Bath and West of
England Society and Southern Counties Association,

172

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 24, 18&3.

- American Horticultural Journalism. — Oar excellent trans¬
atlantic contemporary, The American Florist, keeps in the front rank of
horticultural journalism “ on the other side.” Special issues are the order
of the day, the “ Convention and Columbian Souvenir ” number being the
latest achievement in this direction. This number is replete with illus¬
trations, for besides some charming views of the horticultural exhibits
at the Chicago Exhibition, no less than 41G portraits of horticulturists
are given.

- “Iggulden’s Antirrhinum.” — For a mass of pure white

flowers for bedding I know of nothing to equal Iggulden’s Antirrhinum,
It has been in bloom the whole of the season, and appears likely to
continue all the summer. It is important to keep the spikes of
seed-pods cut off, not minding the sacrifice of two or three flowers and
buds at the top ; indeed, the plants are more even and compact after
this operation, as a number of shorter spikes are ready to open their
numerous flowers. I believe the variety is fairly well “ fixed,” so a
stock may be raised from seed. I prefer, however, to insert cuttings in
the autumn, wintering them in a cold frame, or, in other words, treat
them like Calceolarias. — T. S.

- Allamanda Williamsi. — As an exhibition plant, this recent

introduction of Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son must shortly take a high
position. Darker in foliage and stem than most varieties at present
in cultivation, a grand habit, and flowers stout in texture of a pleasing
medium shade of ochre, it is particularly acceptable, not only for exhi¬
bition, but to supply cut blooms for decorative work. The plant is of
upright growth, and in some instances stakes are not even required for
support. Strong shoots taken with a heel early in the season, and grown
in 4-inch pots, make pretty little plants for grouping. As showing its
fioriferousness, I saw, a few days ago, a plant, 9 inches in height, grown
to a single stem, and only in a 3-inch pot, which had a perfect head of
growth bearing nine fully developed flowers. — R. P, R.

- Hardy Flowers at Eynsford. — Those who are interested

in hardy flowers would find that a day spent on Messrs. H. Cannell
and Sons’ seed farms at Eynsford highly enjoyable. Visitors are
received and treated with the utmost courtesy, and a sight will be
shown that is not, at any rate by Londoners like myself, to be seen
every day. Here will be found large beds of the fragrant Alyssum
maritimum, the gaudy Antirrhinum, and the more lowly, though not
by any means less beautiful, Viola. Thousands of Asters are throwing
up good sized flowers which present a very charming appearance, the
colours being massed in a tasteful style. The soil on which these plants
are growing is of a very light chalky nature, nevert’neless they are doing
admirably, and this after a dry season, is proof of the skill and
unremitting attention to which Mr. Robert Cannell subjects them. — H.

- Blandford Horticultural Society. — In brilliant weather

the above Society held its first annual Show on Thursday, the 17th inst.,
in the beautiful grounds of Bryanstone Park, the seat of the Right Hon.
Viscount Portman, K.G-., and the Society is to be congratulated on the
success it attained. Mr. Allsopp secured the premier award with a very
fine group tastefully arranged. Mr. Perkins, Milton Abbey, also ex¬
hibited a grand group of plants. Sir W. Marriott (gardener, Mr. Denny)
sent a splendid group of stove and greenhouse plants, including some
Orchids, amongst which was the chaste Catasetum Bungerothi (not for
competition). Fruit was well shown in all classes, the principal prize-
takers being Messrs. Martin, Allsopp, Perkins, Elsworth. Vegetables
were well shown, Mr. Allsopp again winning the first prize. Amateurs
and cottagers came out remarkably well, their exhibits being very fine.
Mr. Pritchard of Christchurch showed a collection of herbaceous plants
in flower, which added greatly to the beauty of the Show. — Visitor.

- The Wakefield Paxton Society. — At the recent meeting

of this Society, Mr. H. Gill of Leeds, son of Mr. Gill, one of the Vice-
Presidents, read an extremely interesting and practical paper on “ The
Tulip.” The author this year carried off first prize in the Maiden
Growers’ class at the Manchester Show of the Royal National Tulip
Society, and also came in second for the silver medal in the open class.
In his paper, Mr. H. Gill observed that as it was not the season for
Tulips he could not illustrate his remarks by specimens, still as this
was the time for those who intended to begin the cultivation of this
beautiful flower, perhaps he could give them a few hints which would
be valuable. He then dealt with the raising of seedlings, the prepara¬
tion of the becjs, and traced the steps necessary to secure success in
the development of the bulbs, noticing the practice followed by the
principal growers, and the points he had found of special importance
i n his own experience.

- The Introduction of Foreign Plants. — “ Garden and

Forest ” sums up a column of comments and quotations on and from some
recent articles in “ Garden Flora ” as follows : —It would be difficult to
compute with accuracy the total number of foreign plants now grown
in northern Europe, every year adding, of course, largely to the
enormous total. But to give some idea of what this total now may be
we may quote Professor Rraus’s statement that, v,rhile some 1500
flowering plants are believed to be natives of England, Sweet’s “ Hortus
Britannicus” names as growing there in 1830 some 32,000 species.
This means that even sixty-three years ago, before the prolific labours
of the last two generations of explorers and importers, more than twenty-
two plants had been introduced by man into England for one with
which Nature had there supplied him.

- Montbretia crocosm^flora flore-pleno. — The above

named new plant, figured in your last issue, was raised and sent out by
the well-known Freneh hybridist. Monsieur Victor Lemoine of Nancy,
from whom I received it towards end of last year. The first two
flowers which opened on my plant were quite single, but those which
expanded afterwards had all a double row of petals, so that the flowers
can only be considered as semi-double, an additional proof of which is
that several of them are now setting seed, which a fully double flower
would hardly do. The flowers are very short-lived, each of them
remaining open not more than a day and a half, so that those at the
bottom of the spray usually closed before those at the top commenced
to expand. This plant is interesting more as the first of a new race
with double flowers than from its own individual merits, and considering
what really fine and beautiful things Mens. Lemoine has already given
us in this family, he may reasonably be expected to produce in the
near future much better and more fully double flowers than those of the
plant now under notice. — W. E. Gumbleton.

- Grapes and Tomatoes at Swanley. — It would doubtless

astonish many people, as it did me, to see the Vines growing at Mr.
Ladds’ nurseries, from which Grapes are sent to the yarious markets
for ten months in the year. House after house had been cleared of
Black Hamburgh, and at the time of my visit Mr. Ladds was about to
commence cutting Black Alicantes, than which I have never seen a
finer crop. The bunches were of good size, and the finish of the berries
left little to be desired. In one house, 600 feet long by about 18 feet
wide, it was estimated that between 4 and 5 tons of Grapes were
hanging. There were six houses of this size, all stocked v^ith the same
variety, and coming in in succession. No bunches are removed from
the Vines, they been made to carry all they produce, and, despite the
tax this must put upon their energies, good health meets the eye in
every direction. One span-roofed structure, 700 feet long, is planted
with Gros Colman, and the weight of Grapes must be enormous. The
berries and bunches are of good size and finish, and the canes are
cropped from within 18 inches or 2 feet of the border, right up to the
ridge. This house alone is worth a visit to see, but it would not be all
that Mr. Ladds, jun., could show. Tomatoes may be seen by the
thousand, planted out in the borders of long low span-roofed structures.
Roses, too, are cut here by the thousand every week, and this during
the whole of the year. — Nomad.

- Knighton Horticultural Show.— The second annual Show

was held in the grounds of R. Toller, Esq., Clarendon Park, August 17th,
and as regards the exhibits must be considered a success. Vegetables
in the amateurs’ and cottagers’ classes were excellent, and plants and
cut flowers were also very creditable. There were a number of special
prizes, which were very keenly contested, given by tradesmen. But
perhaps the special prizes given by some of the members of the
Committee are most worthy of emulation. They were confined to the
children of the schools in the neighbourhood for bouquets and baskets of
wild flowers to be arranged in the presence of the Committee, also for
window plants grown by themselves, Mr. Wm. Bell, the Hon. Secretary
of the Leicester Chrysanthemum Society, has taken great interest in
thsse classes. He visited the schools at intervals during the summer
and instructed the children in plant growing, and has thus instilled in
the minds of the children a love for gardening, which we hope may
be a pleasure and profit to them in after years. All these classes
were very keenly contested by the children, and some of the exhibits
were meritorious. Five groups (not for competition) were tastefully
arranged down the centre of one large tent. Each group differed in
character from the others, but none were crowded. Mr. G. Lawson,
gardener to Mrs. G. H. Ellis, Knighton Hayes, brought his specimen
Ferns, which were very much admired. The children in the special
classes mentioned above brought 160 exhibits.

August 24, 1693. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

173

- The Island op Foemosa. — A report on the Island of Formosa

by Mr. Hosie has been published as a Parliamentary paper. It is the
first which has been issued in this country since 1886, and in the
interval the island has become an independent province of the Chinese
Empire. The agricultural products include Rice (two crops annually),
Wheat, Millet, Indian Corn, Sweet Potatoes, and other bulbous plants,
and various kinds of Yams. Bamboos and Lotuses flourish in the North,
and the Ginger plant is freely cultivated. The Guava tree grows wild#
Mr. Hosie says : “ In respect of economic plants the island is indeed
wealthy, but up to the present neither the native nor the foreigner has
taken full advantage of the wealth.” The other products include Tea
(a black variety erroneously classed as green), camphor, sulphur, and
tobacco. Two kinds of sugar are obtained, the most important being
“ Saccharum sinense, J7oarZ>.” In conclusion, Mr. Hosie says that the
trade of the island is woefully undeveloped. The bulk of the tea goes to
the United States, and most of the sugar to Japan.

- Wild Flowee Competitions. — Almost everywhere these

competitions are to my mind very unsatisfactory. At one show I found
not less than eighty-five bunches of wild flowers staged in competition
for three prizes, and though three others were awarded, there were
seventy-nine unsuccessful exhibitors. In the corresponding class for
baskets of wild flowers there were thirty-one exhibits, leaving twenty-six
that were disappointed. A very interesting class, however, was one of
wild flowers, dried and preserved in book albums. Three of these were
exhibited, the contents well preserved but very indifferently named, not
one botanically, and the common names more or less local or incorrect.
I ventured later in addressing the visitors to urge that some local effort
should be made, as I would wish to see it universally made in rural
districts, to form classes for the instruction of children in the botanical
and common nomenclature of wild flowers, as that would be educational
and useful, whilst the present practice of asking for mere bunches did no
good whatever. — Alex. Dean.

- Peeshoee Flowee Show. — This and the attractions which

are associated with it provide one of the most popular holidays in South
Worcestershire. The eighteenth annual gathering took place on 17th
inst., and the result must have been eminently satisfactory to all engaged
in its promotion. The Show was revived after an interval last year,
and the new management, which then successfully commenced its career,
has continued to extend and develop the attractions of the horticul¬
tural Show and the attendant entertainments. Their enterprise was
fairly rewarded, the attendance being larger than last year, and number¬
ing between 6000 and 7000. The pleasant grounds of the Abbey, again
placed at the disposal of the Committee by Major Hudson, formed a
picturesque locale for the Exhibition. The Show displayed many
points of excellence. Of the plants and flowers shown. Ferns, Coleus,
and Fuchsias were thoroughly good exhibits. Begonias were creditable,
and Asters, Zinnias, Roses, and Dahlias were all good and well shown
for the season. Fruit was on the whole excellent. The Apples were
remarkably fine. The Kent fruit sent by Mr. Bunyard was well to
the front.

- Peopoetional Prizegiving. — I beg to thank Mr. Cummins

for the information respecting the ultimate apportioning of the prizes
at Carshalton published under my reference to the subject of last week.
The figures given stand as an admirable object lesson, and merit every
attention. I looked for four prizes only, but six were awarded. Now
had the six been provided on the ordinary system we should have seen
the £5 divided about as follows — SOs., 253., 203., Hs.. 7s., Is. The new
method of apportionment given aecording to actual merit shows that the
first prize is but 8.3. 3d. more than is the sixth or lowest. The first and
second prizewinners may grumble, but the lower winners have much to
be satisfied with. Another excellent result of the system I uphold is that
no prize awarded is higher than the relative merits of the exhibit
require. Thus in this particular competition the first prize collection
was 18J points below the Judges’ maximum, showing that there was
room for half a dozen better exhibits to have come between it and the
maximum. Who, in such case, therefore are entitled to complain ? I
do not understand that the general adoption of the system advocated
would necessitate a greater number of judges, except that it would often
compel a higher appreciation of the work involved, and keener examina¬
tion. But very much of judging is done by poin s already, and in all
cases a maximum being determined even for .single dishes, or of any¬
thing, let the points be written on the backs of the entry cards, with
the position of the collection, and the thing is done. It would really
rest with the Committee to properly apportion the prize money. —
A. Dean.

- The Beeadalbane Vine. — In the article in your last issue

(page 139) entitled “ The Giants of Grapedom,” which I have found
very interesting, there is an incidental reference to the Breadalbane
Vine, regarding which the writer desires farther information. I had the
pleasure of inspecting this famous Vine several years ago ; but the
statistics then acquired would not obviously describe either its dimen¬
sions or its productiveness at the present time. It constitutes un¬
doubtedly the prevailing attraction at the beautiful Killin residence of
the Marquis of Breadalbane. I understand that the splendid Grapes
produced by this Vine are annually distributed by the benevolent
Marchioness among the hospitals and infirmaries of Edinburgh and
Glasgow. Her ladyship is exceedingly popular in the former eity, in
whose charitable institutions she takes a deep interest. Her husband
is at present the representative of the Queen at the General Assembly
of the Church of Scotland. I have no doubt that the Marquis of
Breadalbane’s head gardener at Auchmore in Killin parish, Perthshire,
would be very glad to give your contributor the required statistics
regarding the world-famous Breadalbane Vine. If he desires me to do
so I will write to him on the subject. — David R, Williamson.

- Beediansk Grapes. — Berdiansk is celebrated in Southern

Russia for the size and sweetness of its Grapes. The British Consul
in Southern Russia in a recent report speaks of Berdiansk town as
formed by Prince Woronsoff in 1842 on the low ground adjoining the
steppe, and was originally probably washed by the Sea of Azof, the soil
being entirely sand and shells, with brackish water everywhere within
a foot of the surface. Plans were drawn up for the formation of gardens,
and about 800 acres were offered to peasants and German colonists, on
condition that they planted not less than 120 fruit trees or 2400 Vines
per desiatine of 2 7 acres, a rent of 7J per annum per desiatine being
levied. Sole ownership was granted upon condition that, in case of
default, the land would revert to the town. Every available plot was
soon taken up, and in a few years the entire space was transformed into
well-arranged and profitable gardens. During 1888 this experiment was
repeated by the Town Council. A quantity of land — about 500 desiatines
— was sold by auction, and averaged £10 to £50 per desiatine, the terms
being an annual payment of 6s. per desiatine for ten years, and the
same conditions as to cultivation. No difliculty occurred in finding
purchasers, and the necessary Vines and fruit trees were planted, and
the gardens now present a very favourable aspect. The Vines thrive
well, and already bear fruit, large quantities of ordinary garden produce
being also grown. The descriptions of Vines principally grown here are
the Chassla or Bernska, Chaons, Isabella, black and white Muscat,
Burgonski, Arcitinski, and the Alexandra Muscat. The Vines give a
greater yield on the low, sandy soil ; but the more delicate kinds thrive
better on the slopes in a clay soil. About 3000 Vines occupy a desiatine
of land, and no manuring is practised, although, where experiments have
been made with old Vines, manure has been found advantageous. The
average yield of Grapes of the common kinds is about 10 lbs. per Vine,
36 lbs. producing about 2 gallons of wine. The superior kinds give a
smaller yield. Prices of Grapes average from Is. 8d. to 8s. per 36 lbs.,
and new wine from 3s. to lOs. per 2 gallons. The crushing is carried on
in a primitive manner, and little attention is paid to sorting or cleaning.
Bulgarian and German colonists go in from the country districts during
the early autumn and buy up the wine, none being as yet exported.
There are several large private growers, who take special care in the
cultivation of their Vines and preparation of wine, and some good,
sound wine can be generally found in their cellars. The bulk of the
wine being of a light character (8 to 10 per cent, of alcohol), does not
bear keeping ; but where the superior kinds are properly cleared from
the stalks and sun-dried a good, strong wine is obtained, which keeps
well, and can be bought at 12s. to 163. per 2 gallons. No phylloxera or
other Vine disease has yet been experienced at Berdiansk. It is estimated
that some 1500 desiatines of land are under Vine cultivation amongst
the various colonies and villages in the district, in addition to the
quantity belonging to the town. Probably in a short time an outlet will
have to be found for the surplus wine, as the quantity produced will be
doubled, and the supply will be greater than can be consumed in the
surrounding districts. The Vines seldom fail to give a good yield. The
cultivation, therefore, is found to be lucrative ; but it is five years before
the Vine is in full bearing. The present production of wine at Berdiansk
amounts to about 300,000 gallons per annum. The Vines during the
autumn are bent down and well covered over with earth to provide
against the attack of the severe frosts. In the spring this is removed
and the Vines cut down to 2 feet and 3 feet from the ground, and no
more than five stalks or branches are allowed to remain, and these have
necessarily four or five buds on each.

174

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 24, 1893.

- A New Alpine Garden. — The Horticultural Society of

Dauphiny and the Tourist Society of the same district have combined
to form an Alpine Garden at Champrousse at an elevation of
1800 metres; 500 to 600 plants are already planted. The garden says
the “ Illustration Horticole” is intended as a refuge for rare or interest¬
ing species whose existence in a wild state is threatened, and
as an establishment wherein such species may be propagated for
distribution.

- Violas. — The Rev. David R. Williamson of Kirkmaiden writes

to us as follows : — “ I am greatly indebted to Mr. William Dean for
his generous references to my recent article on the Viola in your issue
of last week. What he says of my advocacy of the merits of this
beautiful and durable border flower is all the more appreciated by
reason of the fact that I do not know Mr. Dean either personally or
by correspondence. I am much gratified to find that he coincides
with my estimate of the Countess of Wharncliffe, which by reason of
its satin-like texture and exquisite fragrance I account much superior
to such varieties, however admirable in other aspects, as White Flag,
Sylvia, and the Countess of Hopetoun, whose splendid attributes,
nevertheless, I fully recognise. Each of these is exceedingly showy,
and very floriferous. In Mr. Dean’s interesting and instructive article
on the ‘ History of the Pansy,’ in the same excellent number of the
Journal, he has a eulogistic reference to Mr. Cuthbertson of Rothesay,
which is amply deserved.”

- Spanish Chestnuts. — In England the Chestnut has never

been of much esteem as food. For long its propagation was left to
chance, and it was not until the middle of the last century that it was
first cultivated. It was principally used to provide hop-poles and pigs-
mast. On the Continent, however, and especially in Italy and Spain, it
formed an important, and in some places the principal article of food.
There are many ways of preparing the Chestnut for the table. Reduced
to a flour, with the addition only of water and occasionally a little salt,
it is cooked in various simple ways, polenta, a thick porridge, /arzwate,
a soup of less consistency than the polenta, or need, thin round cakes
baked between two flat hot stones, and to which a special aroma is given
by placing a dried Chestnut leaf above and below the paste while baking.
These are, however, in Tuscany, usually alternated polenta, made of
Indian Corn, or Wheat and Rye bread, in which case the amount of
Chestnut flour consumed is reduced to one-third or one-fourth, according
to circumstances. In the Piedmont Chestnuts are only used as fruit.
In parts of Spain bread made from Chestnuts is in common use. When
Chestnuts are not ground they are roasted or boiled either in water or
milk. — (“ Vegetarian Messenger.”)

- Kingswood Flower Show.— This, the third Exhibition of

this Gloucestershire Society, was a distinct advance upon its prede¬
cessors. Many good prizes were offered both in the open and amateurs’
classes. In the former Mr. J. Cypher, Cheltenham, won the leading
prizes in his usual excellent style, Mr. Mould, Pewsey, also showing well.
No less than three silver cups, each valued at 5 guineas, were won by
Mr. W. Rye, gardener to Captain Bellfield, Frenchay, who had a grand
lot of flowering and fine-foliaged plants and Ferns. Mr. W. Bannister,
gardener to H. St. Vincent Ames, Esq., also showed plants well. Cut
flowers were quite a feature in the display. Dr. Budd’s Roses being
particularly good. Fruit was also of great excellence. The best collec¬
tion of six varieties was shown by Mr. W. Nash, gardener to the Duke
of Beaufort, Badminton, who had remarkably good Alicante and Muscat
of Alexandria Grapes, a handsome Golden Gem Melon, good Peaches,
Nectarines, and Figs. Mr. Bannister was second. Mr. Nash was also
well first for black Grapes, his three bunches of Alicante being faultless.
Dr. Grace and Mr. Doel were also successful in Grape classes. Apples
and Pears were numerous and good, as also were vegetables generally.
Messrs. Jullion and Cottle are the Honorary Secretaries, and they are to
be congratulated upon the results, financially and otherwise, of their
labours. — W. I.

THE DROUGHT AND CATERPILLAR LIFE.

It is remarkable how often we find Nature brings about a favourable
change out of circumstances that appear unpromising, and this has
been the case in some points with the drought of the present summer.
Both in the country and in gardens hordes of caterpillars appeared on
many plants and trees during May, and as the dry weather continued it
seemed likely that they would be the cause of much mischief to a
vegetation already languishing for lack of moisture. The dryness and
the warmth together did indeed accelerate the development of some
species, and sent them into the pupal state earlier than usual ; but with
regard to a larger number of caterpillars, as time went on, the result of
the drought was manifestly unfavourable. Much moisture is hurtful to

most caterpillars ; an excess of dryness, however, tells against them,
and, after the long absence of rain the condition of the leaves was
such that caterpillars became unable to masticate them, and the warmth
reduced the natural juices of their bodies, so that many of them died
of inanition. Of course this dying off of caterpillars was more notice¬
able on trees and wild plants than on cultivated species, because these
were often watered to some extent, when it was possible, and so the
foliage or other portions of the plants were maintained in an edible
condition. Hairy caterpillars, 1 believe, suffered less from the heat than
did smooth ones, because the coat of hairs tended to diminish evapora¬
tion from the body. — Entomologist.

ONIONS AND POTATOES AT CHISWICK.

The following members of the Fruit and Vegetable Committee
examined these crops at Chiswick on the 17th inst. — Messrs. H. Balder-
son (in the chair), G. Wythes, G. Norman, G. Sage, J. Willard, J. Wright,
G. W. Cummins, A. Dean, and A. F. Barron, Secretary.

The Committee first inspected the different varieties of Onions which
have been grown in the gardens this season, the general crop being
exceptionally satisfactory, having regard to the drought and other
Onion troubles so prevalent elsewhere. The rows of Onions are about
20 feet long, and there were fifty of them. The seed was sown on
March 3rd. All the various sections of Onions were fully represented,
but there could be no doubt whatever as to the unquestionable superiority
of the globular forms over the old White Spanish type, with their some¬
what flattened or hollow bases. The awards made were based absolutely
upon the merits of the respective sorts as presented in the trial, and
only the most striking were selected for honours. The following
received three marks, the highest award the Committee can make at
Chiswick. Awards of merit or certificates can only be granted at the
Drill Hall, where samples of the respective sorts may be shown by the
persons sending to Chiswick.

Southport Yellow Glohe. — Very smooth, handsome, even ; Giant
Zittau type, but finer.

Southport Red Globe, — Very fine, handsome, even, firm, a first-rate
one ; the best of all the red section. Seed of both from Deverill and
Henderson, New York.

Suttons' A1 . — This is of the medium Globe type, a very fine massive
handsome Onion, that was much admired.

DeverilVs Cocoanut. — The finest and best of all the deep Globe or
James’ Keeping type.

Henderson's Prizetaker. — Also a very fine globular Onion.

Globe Madeira (Vilmorin). — A remarkably fine stock, showing the
best sample of the trial.

Italian Tripoli. — The best of the white-skinned forms.

It is perhaps surprising to learn that several Onions that have of
late made a reputation for weight did not obtain awards, but,
apart from lack of distinctness, these varieties under ordinary culture
were far from being the wonders they are supposed to be.

Potatoes, of which there is a good trial, were next taken, but probably
one-third of the sorts need another month to mature in, whilst not a few
were of poor appearance. About a dozen were finally selected for
cooking, the lifted samples being all that could be desired. These
selected samples were all most admirably served, for Potatoes are always
well cooked at Chiswick, and the full award of three marks was made to
the following. Sutton’s Triumph, and Windsor Castle, white round ;
Jeannie Deans, flattish white round; Lillie Langtry, red round ; Early
Regent, a now well known variety, and Redcliffe Seedling, long white
kidney shape, great cropper. Some others full of promise will have to be
seen and tried later. It was agreed that the Potatoes were exceptionally
sound and good this season.

DIGGING AMONGST FRUIT TREES.

This practice cannot be too strongly condemned, yet it is persisted
in, I believe, merely for the sake of appearance. If the ground is
kept clean digging need not be practised ; if trees are well managed the
ground surrounding them should be a network of fibres induced by
surface dressings of farmyard manure. Where digging has been regularly
practised for years we may look in vain for fibrous roots. The roots are
driven down beyond the reach of the spade into material that is
unsuitable for them, and need we wonder that the young shoots die
back and the trees canker ? Only recently I have been engaged in
removing comparatively young trees practically fibreless that should
have been in good condition but for the spade. With the roots of trees
in sour, wet, or hungry subsoil I suspect “ spraying ” for a lifetime with
blue French broth would not prevent canker.

If trees are to produce good crops of fine fruit they must be
liberally fed at their roots. If farmyard manure is not available for
periodical dressings, and the drainage from the farmyard cannot be had
or other sewage, recourse must be had to artificial manures. A mixture
of two parts superphosphate of lime and onepartiof nitrate of soda is
simple and good, applying from loz. to 2 ozs. to the square yard, accord¬
ing to the state of the trees, as far as the roots extend, judging the
distance by the branches. This dressing may be given two or three
times during the season, commencing early in spring. A more durable
manure has been recommended in the Journal, and may usefully be
repeated here : “ 5 lbs. of bonemeal, 2 lbs. of sulphate of potash mixed
and applied 4 ozs. to the square yard.” If applied in spring 1 lb. of
nitrate of soda might be added to this mixture. — Fruit Grower.

August 24, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

17&

S

Stanhopea Amesiana,

This new and beautiful Orchid was exhibited at the Drill Hall
on April 25th by Messrs. H. Low & Co., Clapton, and it attracted
considerable attention, the Orchid Committee of the Koyal Horti¬
cultural Society awarding a first-class certificate for it. It is said
to have been imported amongst some plants of S. Lowiana, which

PlEUROTH ALLIS PUBERULA.

This species belongs to the section Spathacese, and is allied to
the West Indian P. univaginata, Lindl., but its flowers are smaller
and more densely arranged on the raceme. It was, says the “ Kew
Bulletin,” sent for determination by Mr. F. W. Moore, Keeper,
Royal Botanic Garden, Glasnevin, in January, 1892, and again
early in the present year. The flowers are pale green with a little
dull yellow at the base, and exhale a Hawthorn-like fragrance. The
upper half of each sepal is finely pubescent. t/in

YaNDA TERES.

Whilst visiting the gardens at Cadland Park, Southampton,
recently, my attention was called to a plant of Vanda teres, which had
obviously been injured, possibly by coming in contact with the
spout of a watering can. The plant after the accident apparently

Fig. 26.— stanhopea AMESIANA.

as regards size and form of the flower it resembles. It differs,
however, in colour. The flowers, one of which is depicted in the
illustration (6g. 26), on the plant shown were very large, of an ivory
or porcelain white. They were, moreover, deliciously fragrant,
which enhanced them considerably. This Stanhopea is an acquisi¬
tion, and doubtless will become a favourite amongst Orchid
growers.

Bulbophyllum spatiiaceum.

According to the “ Kew Bulletin ” this species was introduced
by Messrs. Hugh Low & Co. of Clapton, and flowered with Mr.
James O’Brien of Harrow-on-the-Hill, Middlesex, in July, 1892,
when it was sent to Kew for determination. It is allied to
B. apodum, Ilooh, /., “ Flora of British India,” v. p. 766, but has
shorter leaves and a much denser raceme, and much more slender
membranaceous bracts. The flowers are light straw yellow, with a
somewhat brighter lip. The base of the inflorescence is sheathed
by spathaceous bracts, in allusion to which the name is given.

began to languish, and fears were entertained that it would die.
Equal to the occasion, however, Mr. Garner, the gardener, bound
moss around the growths in different places, and this being kept
damp induced the formation of new roots from those points. By
this means the plant was saved. Under such good management
it will doubtless flourish and produce many beautiful flowers. — C.

Vanda cairulea.

This is one of the most beautiful Orchids in cultivation, with
its pale lilac flowers produced in October, and lasting in beauty four
or five weeks. It is considered a cool Orchid. I have tried to grow
it in a cool house, and was very unsuccessful. I then placed it in
the East Indian house, where it commenced growing at once, pro¬
ducing roots from the stem and soon filling the basket. I grow the
plant in an oak basket with dried sphagnum moss chopped fine and
all the dust well sifted out, and one-third of crocks well mixed with
the sphagnum. I suspend the basket close to the glass under one

176

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 24, 1893.

of the ventilators in the roof of the house. When the plant has
rooted into the sphagnum and is making its growth it requires
abundance of water and plenty of air with a moist atmosphere,
and when growth is completed very little water is needed during
the winter months. The sphagnum must not be allowed to become
too dry, or the plant will shrivel and lose its lower leaves. —
Specialist.

WASPS.*

Desteoyino with Tukpentine— Queens.

I QUITE agree with “W. R. Raillem” that the use of gas tar is the
easiest, cheapest, and best method of destroying wasps’ nests, provided
you can do so from above perpendicularly ; but suppose the nests to
be in the bank of a river, how then? My extensive rosarium, about
80 yards long, area 40 poles, is situated on the bank of the mighty river
Hiz. Perpendicular fall of the bank 18 inches, depth of water 10 inches,
width of river, average, 6 feet. There were four wasps’ nests in the
bank this year, about 6 inches above water level. These were destroyed
by a piece ot rag well saturated with spirit of turpentine being thrust
into the holes, and then set on fire at night. Next morning the nests
were dug out and burnt. Cost of turpentine 6d., rag an old pocket-
hankerchief.

At all early flower shows, i.e., before the end of June, I would
suggest a prize should be ofiered for the largest number of queen wasps
exhibited dead, killed in the current year before date of the show, this
would exclude museum specimens. — H. F. Llag,

Wasps and Benzoline.

The wasps are doing so much damage to the orchards in South
Lincolnshire that fruit growers have been obliged to gather the fruit
before it is ripe, thus incurring considerable loss in their sales. At
Quadring, the mail cart, which runs between Spalding and Bonington,
was attacked by a swarm of wasps, and the horse and driver were
stung so severely that they were unable to proceed on their journey,
and the mails were delayed for over an hour. Shopkeepers, whose
windows .are infested with the insects, have found a benzoline spray
to be an effective means of extirpation.

Wasps and Tomatoes.

Mr. Thorne, gardener,jThe Bush, Walton-on-Thames, informs us that
he established Tomatoes in pots for growing up and over the front
ventilators of the vinery purposely for excluding wasps. The air filters
through the Tomatoes, but the wasps remain outside. There is quite a
plague of them, and they are devouring all kinds of fruit within reach.
In the absence of the Tomato barrier the vinery was “ full of wasps.”
A gentleman informs us of a case of wasps devouring Green Gage
Plums ; some of these he placed in a small open conservatory among
Tomatoes in pots, and there they were safe, as no wasps enter the house.

Wasps and Muslin.

A Sussex correspondent desiring to protect ripe Figs enclosed the
fruit in muslin, but the pertinacious wasps ate through the muslin and
finished the Figs.

MacDougall’s Smoke Ferrets.

I DO not see that any of your correspondents who are suffering
under this plague of wasps have mentioned MacDougall’s “ smoke
ferrets,” which I look upon as the simplest and most effective destroyer
of wasps’ nests that I have met with. I had in my rockery what seemed
to be a tolerably strong nest, I therefore applied in the first instance
some cyanide of potassium. This killed a considerable number ; after
a few days the nest was as strong as ever. I therefore one night lighted
one of these smoke ferrets and put it into the hole, closing the entrance.
In about half an hour’s time the nest was dug out and a gallon of dead
wasps was taken out, besides six large pieces of comb full of larvse.

Many nests have since been taken by it all around me. It derives
its name of smoke ferret from the fact that it is used instead of that
unpleasant animal for the purpose of driving rabbits out. A lighted
tube is placed in the run and bunny very soon bolts. — D., Beal.

JUDGING AT FLOWER SHOWS— WHAT IS AN EXOTIC?

At the Cardiff Flower Show last year I had occasion to blame the
Judges for giving the first prize to a “collection of cut flowers, hardy
herbaceous perennials, twelve bunches, distinct varieties,” which
contained Roses, Hydrangeas, and some other woody plants : and this
year I have reason to find fault with the Judges for disqualifying a
“ collection of cut flowers, twelve bunches (exotic) distinct varieties,”
for containing a bunch of Anemone japonica alba. With this I send
you a copy of the Society’s schedule so that you can see the wording
for yourself. Anemone japonica alba — if 1 mistake not — was intro¬
duced from Japan by Fortune, and is not indigenous to this country,
and therefore must be an exotic to all intents. If the wording of
the schedule had been “ tropical exotics ” I could have understood their
decision ; but as it is, I must say I am surprised at the Judges, especially,
one of them who hails from London, showing such a lack of knowledge
of our English etymology. What do you think, Mr. Editor ? —
A. Pettigrew, Castle Gardens, Cardiff.

_ [We think the Judges were wrong both last year and this. We also
think the wording of the schedule distinctly open to improvement in
more than one class.]

Chrysanthemum Foes.

The diagrams of eelworms and text on page 129 must be of vital
interest to all in this department, and we cannot but feel grateful to
Mr. Abbey for revealing to us so subtle an enemy. Perhaps he and the
Editor may be induced to supplement it by bringing us in like manner
face to face with that “small weevil-like creature” which cripples the
tops and our hopes at the same time. Given a good fat caterpillar or
earwig there is something tangible to get between your thumb and
finger, not to mention the exquisite pleasure (not to the beastie) of
giving him the coup de grace ; but science alone can give us dominion
over these microscopic foes. To this end she straps Vermorei pumps on
our back and stocks the seedroom shelf with Kilm- Wrights (nothing
personal) and other ingenious aids from her laboratory. One lesson I
learned last season about this “worm i’ the bud” is not to let him get
there ; dredge the tops freely with tobacco powder while healthy. The
result has been that crippled tops this season are reduced to a minimum.
Another lesson learned this season is that Mr. Molyneux’s remedy (lime
and sulphur solution), as given in his admirable book, is harmless to the
roots, and can be used in safety at this season, if required, without
unfastening tall plants to lay them down. This I tested by watering
some plants with the mixture as diluted for syringing without any
baneful results. I will not further trespass on space lest I incur the
reproach that “ Ireland blocks the way,” but I do hope the ball will
be kept rolling in that “ fair field for discussion” the Editor generously
provides. — E. K., Buhlin.

Chrysanthemums at Heywood.

As a West of England grower Mr. Robinson, gardener to Lord Justice
Lopes, has acquired more than local fame, his success last year at several
shows, including Devizes, Bath, and Bristol, being above the average,
and he is, therefore, looked upon as a strong rival competitor to many
who visit the above named and other shows. Judging from' the present
appearance of his plants there is every prospect of his credit being well
maintained, if it does not even supersede that of 1892. The buds are
evidently being well timed by the usual course of pinching and cutting
down, according to the variety, during the spring and early summer
months, and the manner in which the buds are setting, their free growth,
and healthy appearance of leaf and stem proves they are judiciously
and systematically treated. I was struck with the high quality of
many of the varieties of recent introduction numbered among the
collection of some 460 plants grown principally for large blooms.
Several of the better known novelties are represented, not by solitary
plants, but with from four to six of a sort, and as these are forming
their crown buds in succession new varieties will sure to be a strong
feature in Mr. Robinson’s stands during the coming contests.

Colonel W. B. Smith is wonderfully promising, and is represented by
six uniformly healthy and vigorous plants ; so also is Lord Brooke.
J. Shrimpton, W. Seward, and G, W. Childs, the new Cullingfordi
seedlings, are each strong, and bid fair to give large blooms in due time.
Duke of York, Edwin Beckett, W. Tricker, J. P. Kendal, John Dyer,
said to be an improved Kate Mursell ; Coronet, Waban, Golden Wedding,
R. C. Kingston, Mrs. C. H. Payne, Robert Owen, J. S. Fogg, Mrs. E. D.
Adams, Mrs. Gov. Fifer, Tuxedo, Le Verseux, Mrs. Nisbet, E. G. Hill,
Beauty of Castlehill, and Beauty of Castleford, are all in the finest
possible condition. Mr. Robinson had perhaps the finest specimen
bloom of Viviand Morel last year seen in the west of England, and his
plants (several of them cut down in April) look well now. Its sports,
Chas. Davis and Mrs. W. R. Wells, are equally vigorous. Of older sorts,
E. Molyneux, Sunflower, Mrs. Wheeler, Mdlle. M. Hoste, Mrs. Falconer
Jameson, Florence Davis, Gloriosum, Etoile de Lyon, Avalanche, Stan-
stead White, and Mdlle. Lacroix may be mentioned among many others,
all in the same enviable state of health. The hairy petalled varieties are
well represented. Of Mrs. Alpheus Hardy there are a dozen plants in
various stages of bud development. Queen of the Hirsutes, Louis
Boehmer, and its white sport were noted as doing well.

Some of the incurved showed much disposition to flower in the early
summer months, but by cutting down a goodly portion of the Queen
family this failing was outgrown. These are comparatively dwarf, but
the “ Princesses ” are most of them 8 feet or more in height, and it is
computed that by the time the flowers are open a large portion of the
stock will cover 12 feet stakes. No mildew is to be found, consequently
with the very close personal attention given to the smallest detail, the
foliage is perfect almost to the pots ; the bright sunshine, too, which we
have known only too well this summer has given them the beautiful
tint that bespeaks perfect maturity in the stems.

Now that the buds are forming rapidly, feeding with artificial
manures will commence in earnest. Clay’s and Thomson’s command¬
ing the largest favours at Heywood. Soot water has been the principal
stimulant used since the pots were filled with hungry roots, with
occasional weak doses of liquid manure as a change. No artificial of any
sort had been used by the middle of August, save that mixed with soil at
potting time, and the stout stems, vigorous foliage, and perfect colour
betokens unusual effort in attending to the daily needs of the plants .

August 24, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

177

No less than four times each hot day have they been examined for
watering, and the shortness of the supply has given much additional
labour in carting from a distance, as it has done in numberless other
gardens throughout the country. — VISITOR.

The Chrysanthemum in Japan.

In the “ Transactions of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society ”
(part i. 1893) recently received there is a paper by Mr. James Comley
of Lexington, entitled “A Visit to Japan.” Unlike many of the
travellers to that interesting country, Mr. Comley appears to have
arranged his visit so as to spend the latter part of the year in Japan,
and as a consequence his paper contains many allusions to the
Chrysanthemums which he evidently saw with much advantage to
himself and with interest to his readers. As the Transactions of the
Society referred to are not very accessible to Chrysanthemum admirers
in this country, 1 feel Mr. Comley will excuse me making several copious
extracts from the record of his visit to the Land of the Eising Sun, as I
am well assured that many readers of the Journal will appreciate to the
full much of the matter selected. He arrived in Yokohama on the
3rd November last year, and in the Cliff Gardens of that city had his
first experience of Japanese Chrysanthemums, where, he says, he saw
dwarf figures composed of Chrysanthemums representing all kinds of
character. A visit was then paid to the Yokohama Gardens Association,
an establishment covering 200 acres of land, which he tells us has the
most beautiful collection of its kind in the world. The Chrysanthemums
were grand, from 600 to 800 varieties being on view. Among these were
about seventy altogether new varieties which he obtained, all wonderful
in colour and shape.

Mr. Comley adds that he visited every place of note in Yokohama
where he might expect to find a Chrysanthemum, and discovered one or
two new varieties in each place. These were generally obtained on the
spot, though this he explains is not an easy thing to do at all times, an
experience in which the late Mr. Robt. Fortune would have concurred
had he been alive. With genuine American shrewdness he tells us that
many of the natives will not sell anything in their handsome grounds,
and that the gardeners of the gentry who are dignified with the title
of noblemen have to be conciliated by a little stratagem and use of
brains.

At Tokio, where the Palace of the Emperor is situated, Mr. Comley
saw one of the best collections of Chrysanthemums in Japan. The
Imperial Gardens are difficult of access, but he managed to obtain a
sight of this great home of the Japanese flower. At Davgozaka it has
been the custom for many years to arrange Chrysanthemum blooms to
represent notable persons, birds, or animals, or to tell of some event in
history. As the visitor approaches from the street flags and banners
seem to invite him, and the showmen tell of the great skill they have
to show. The costumes of the figures are composed of Chrysanthemuihs,
the faces are carved in wood or plaster, the whole being realistic in
appearance. The construction of these models is most interesting. First,
a frame of bamboo of the required size is made, and the plants growing
in pots are arranged in the rear of this frame in such a manner that
neither stems nor pots can be seen from the front. Then the blooms are
drawn through, and arranged in artistic fashion among moss on the
front of the frame. These models last for about a month, and old and
young go to view the show, which is considered one of the great events
of the year.

By way of supplementing Mr. Comley’s observations above it may be
added that in Mr. Piggott’s work, “ The Garden of Japan,” published
last year, there is an illustration of one of these built-up floral models,
entitled the “ Seven Gods of Happiness,” from a photograph taken at
Davgozaka by a member of the British Legation. This writer tells us
that the Chrysanthemum is the last of the “ four gentlemen ” — SAi
Kunshi — so called for the qualities of which they are typical : the four
are Miime, the Plum, vigour and sweetness ; Ran, the Orchis, grace in
adversity ; Take, the Bamboo ; and Kiku, the Chrysanthemum, the
emblem of To Ye Mei, a distinguish.ed Chinese official, who many
centuries ago retired from the Government service on account of its
corruptness. Mr. Robert Fortune refers to this peculiar phase of
Chrysanthemum culture as being practised by the Japanese florists, but
I am not aware of any book but Mr. Piggott’s in which an illustration
of it is given.

To return to Mr. Comley’s paper, and I must continue as far as
possible to quote his own language, for it is impossible for me to
attempt to improve upon it, he says : “ One morning going out early
he came to a tea house, and there saw growing in the yard a magnificent
collection of Chrysanthemums. There were four pretty Japanese girls
sitting on the verandah of the house, and he asked permission to step
in to look at a particular flower more closely. After some display of
bashfulness he was admitted, and after he had taken tea and praised the
flowers, the young girl who seemed to own them took up the specimen
he most admired, reserved only a side shoot for herself, and he became
the happy possessor of another novelty.”

From there he proceeded to Kioto, where he found the best Chrys¬
anthemums. They were to be seen in every garden, and he secured
some very interesting varieties, among which were many varieties
of an entirely new class. While in Kioto this enthusiastic and
successful American Chrysanthemum hunter went to Sacco, a hundred
miles distant, to visit the finest Chrysanthemum Show in Japan.
In this Show we are told there were thirty different classes of
Chrysanthemums all arranged in booths built of bamboo, each class
by itself. Specimen plants were grown in almost every conceivable
shape’ people can realise his surprise at this marvellous display

after all the wonderful shows he had seen in Japan. Again, he inquired
if he could purchase some of these gorgeous varieties, but was refused,
and it was only after convincing the people that he wanted the plants
for private use and to take out of the country that he was allowed to
have some.

Pointing out some of the varieties he wished to possess he was told
he could not have any of those on view but must select from others
growing on a plot of land in the rear of the Exhibition. “Imagine my
further astonishment,” says Mr. Comley, “ when a bamboo gate was opened
and I saw over a quarter of an acre of land literally covered with plants,
all named, two or three of every kind and more of Some. Many of these
plants were from 7 to 8 feet high with flowers from 7 to 14 inches in
diameter.” He went over the whole place, row by row and when he had
finished he had no less than 17.5 varieties, after which he returned to
Kioto well pleased with the result of his expedition and hastened to send
off his treasures to Boston. He collected many other plants, but his
collection of Chrysanthemums during the time he stayed in Japan
amounted to about 400 varieties, amongst which, no doubt, are some
wonderfully fine sorts at present unknown to American or European
growers, and which we may possibly hear something further of during
the next few seasons. Such a ransacking of Japanese gardens would '
suggest that the Americans are now in possession of everything from
Japan in the Chrysanthemum line that is worth growing, but a few more
observations from Mr. Comley will show there is still more room for
future exploration. Towards the close of his paper he says “ Long' as I
have cultivated the Chrysanthemum I had never seen a flower until I
went to Japan where everyone loves it. I visited five hundred places
where the flower is cultivated, and these were only the principal gardens
in a few of the large cities.”

It has been my pleasure to read many accounts, more or less exten¬
sive, of Chrysanthemums as grown in Japan ; but never until I came
across Mr. Comley’s charming paper have I experienced the delight of
reading a personal sketch by a man well versed in the popular autumn
flower. The ordinary traveller who describes Chrysanthemums hardly
understands the subject sufficiently to do it justice, but Mr. Comley is a
specialist and a grower, and resides in a part of America where Chrys¬
anthemums are well understood, and the readers of the Journal of
Horticulture will share with me the feeling that his “Visit to Japan”
is too good an article to remain locked up in the Transactions of the
Society to which he has contributed some of the most interesting and
instructive material extant. That is my only reason for laying his
article so heavily under contribution, and as an enthusiastic Chrysan¬
themum admirer he will, I feel sure, accept generously my excuses for
having done so. — C. H. P.

OUR BIRDS.

Mr. Duffryn’s (page 145) are undoubtedly a thick cloud of
witnesses, and, strange fact, all of whom testify evilly of my poor
sparrows. Sparrows, too, are recompensed much the same way as
generally are his lords and masters — whilst good deeds are ignored and
forgotten, little mistakes are treasured up and remembered continuously.
This regretable custom I suppose the sparrow also will have to submit
to. Fortunately, quite in ignorance of these black clouds that appa¬
rently in waterspout fashion were to clear the way of all who dared
to contradict, this season I, with all attention and seriousness, have
been testing the sparrows’ claims to a retained nitch in wisdom’s huge
diversity. Sustained by evidence that has been overwhelmingly favour¬
able and singularly conclusive, the sparrow once more has demonstrated
in a way that admits of no contradiction.

In the open country to fruit growers the sparrow is an untiring
friend and a determined adversary of their worst enemies. But has our
Editor not been taking the sparrow into his confidence ? has he not just
allowed him to have one little peep where lay hidden away these
multitudinous wrathful accusations ? warned him to be on his best
behaviour, and especially to look well after Mr. Witherspoon’s Apples?
But let the understanding have been what it may, this fact remains to
the credit of the sparrow. Whilst the Apple caterpillar appears in
shoals morning, noon, and night. “They at them,” and the happy
result is I have the heaviest crop of clean beautiful Apples that I have
ever seen. However much the friends of birds may be in a minority I
am now more than convinced that truth lies their way. But,
fortunately, my grand fruit crop has not only been preserved, but I
also have had the good fortune to call in witnesses, and whose evidence
will be forwarded to you in good time. My faith remains unshaken,
that Nature’s laws and all created are wondrously adapted to balance —
to restrain extremes. That there is a useful purpose and place for all,
only selfish, short-sighted man refrains from tampering with machinery
so effective, yet subtle, designedly framed to move man’s brains and to
equal him to whatever may be the responsibility or station that he may
occupy.

As Mr. Verrall lives in the outskirts of a populous town, and worse,
keeps his sparrows confined in an aviary, judgment formed under such
conditions can hardly be trustworthy. But as this witness seems to get
badly on with birds in general, perhaps my relating to him a practice
I follow with children might be of service. During the many years
that I have grown fruit my garden gates have remained continuously
unlocked, with the result, to my advantage, a mutual code of honour
seems to exist between Apples and schoolboys which it is ]ust possible
with somewhat similar treatment his ill-bred jacks, starlings, and
sparrows might imitate.

Next Mr. Duffryn’s imported “cloud of witnesses.” Just fancy, the

178

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 24, 1893

sparrows that requisitioned passing railway trains and utilized them as
private nutcrackers being told oif aa “ little slavies ” to do drudgery. No,
no, the situation was taken in at a glance, and never was British honour
entrusted in safer hands. “ Miss Jonathan,” no matter how gaudy may
be her feathers, must again lay her airs to one side and recommence her
own “grubbery,” as, imported sparrows, be they English, Irish, or canny
Scotch, are British subjects all ; by nature were never intended, and
never will be slaves. Some day, experience gained by also importing
rabbits to where Nature saw no need for them, may prevail upon man to
cease to tamper with arrangements that in ages long past were
pronounced both perfect and good.

Charge No. 1. — Here, I must be a learner, as I have never been out
of the United Kingdom ; but, if referring to at least an arm of our
pugnacious British family I am rather inclined to think that the charge
wili be true.

Next charge No. 2. “ The sparrow as an enemy to gardeners and
fruit growers.” We read American scraps when in search of the mighty
“ tall.” My over sixty years of British experience perceives that this
structure has been drawn out at the expense of its stability ; it is so
overcharged with pure unadulterated “ bosh ” that it entirely misses the
object aimed at.

No. 3, “ The sparrow as an enemy to Grape culture.” I have seen
hens, ducks, blackbirds, and grey birds all enjoying the gobbling of
Grapes, but in England to lay such a charge to a sparrow is as unfair
as it is untrue ; it is preposterous.

No. 4, “ The sparrow as an enemy to grain growers.” The mighty
army of sparrows engaged in the scavenging work of large cities results
in a heavy tithe been taken from those who foolishly grow in such
situations ; but of the open country this charge, too, is seriously over¬
drawn, and I must demand that it be amended by being based on the
country average.”

No. 5, “ Failure of the sparrow as an insect destroyer.” With all
respect to Miss Ormerod and Mr. Gurney, jun., T must beg to repeat
that my experience as a born gardener entirely differs from theirs, and
I also claim that the faith that possesses me has for its foundation most
careful and deeply interested observation.

Mr. Smith’s reference to the march of civilisation reminds that it is
such march that has destroyed that natural balance that he also
refers to.

To “ W. J. B.” jast a word of counsel. Stand to your guns, and
warned by Carlyle’s reminder, never turn faint-hearted when the hands
held up leave truth in a minority. — Joseph Witherspoon.

P.S. — May I append the following letter, which has been sent to me
by Mr. W. J. Watson, Newcastle-on-Tyne : — “ No one interested in fruit
growing in the north can fail to be impressed with the extraordinary
crop of Apples your trees are bearing this year. The quantity and
quality of the fruit on your Lord Suffields, and one or two other varieties,
emphasises, in my mind, the wisdom of limiting the number of varieties
planted, and you would be doing a real service to the public if you
would, from your practical experience, state, say the half-dozen varieties
you have found succeed best with you.” — J. W.

ROYAL SCOTTISH ARBORICULTURAL SOCIETY.

It is nearly forty years since the above Society was established, and
the annual excursions of the members have always been a prominent
part in the programme, productive of much technical information in the
science of forestry. This year the Society was successful in obtaining
permission to visit Windsor Castle, by favour of Her Most Gracious
Majesty. Every arrangement possible was done by the Council to make
the trip a great success. A special train with seven saloon carriages was
engaged for the party from Edinburgh, which numbered about
150 persons. Perhaps on no previous occasion has an equal number of
horticulturists or arboriculturists been so luxuriously provided for, and
the officials of the Society deserve to be congratulated upon the activity
and zeal.

The trip, which occupied ten days, left Edinburgh on August 7th
and travelled, as mentioned, to Windsor on that day. The royal mews
were first inspected under the guidance of Mr. John Manning, the
superintendent of Her Majesty’s horses and carriages, and were much
admired. The royal stables occupy four and halt acres of ground and
nearly 100 grooms are employed. The party then entered the Castle,
visiting the Vandyke and other rooms, and much enjoyed an inspection
of the magnificent historical paintings, statuary, and rare works of art from
many lands. Grinling Gibbons’s wood carvings were especially admired.
In the grand vestibule are the addresses which Her Majesty has received
in every form of casket from her subjects ; all are carefully preserved. Here
also are many of the Jubilee trophies. The throne room with the ivory
chair was inspected, also the grand reception room with its splendid
tapestries, as well as the Waterloo Chamber and St. George’s Hall ; two
oak chairs appeared to be of special interest, one from oak grown on the
field of Waterloo, the other one from Alloway Kirk in Scotland. The
presence chamber was last inspected, the tapestry here being splendid.
Several objects were pointed out by the guides, especially that of
raising the tower to its present height, and it was stated that
George IV. spent million of money in making the Castle what it
now is,

The party was next met by Mr, Owen Thomas, Her Majesty’s head
gardener, and conducted to the east terrace, where the flower

garden was inspected. It is' a fine combination of the Italian and
French styles made in the time of George IV. Thujas and Cupressus
are trained pyramid in shape, and these formed an effective combination
with flowers, which the most fastidious could not but admire. The
terrace battlements of the Castle overlook the flower garden, and bring
the whole under the vision. Near to the flower garden is a Cedrua
Deodara planted by Prince Albert, and a fine tree of Paulownia
imperialis, Chestnut-like in flower, and somewhat similar in perfume.
The Castle slopes were next visited where Her Majesty takes her drives
in her favourite pony carriage. These are principally planted with
Beeches, Holly, Elms, and Spanish Chestnuts, and were re-arranged
under the guidance of the Prince Consort. A wild rock garden is
picfuresque, being made out of an old quarry. Near to here is a fine
specimen of a stunted Oak of the Norman period. It girthed 36 feet
in circumference. A curious Beech tree of interest to arboriculturists was
next seen. This was raised from the Martin Luther tree, and brought
from Germany in 1825 by King George IV., when he was the Duke of
Ciarence. An Oak planted by Queen Victoria on September 12th, 1863,
as marking the spot where stood Herne’s Oak, which was blown down
the same year. On the home farm are some very old Oaks decaying,
but all are specially taken care of.

The private grounds of Frogmore are seldom open to visitors, but
the Eoyal Scottish Arboricultural Society were fortunate in having
no obstacle to bar their visit. The first object of interest here was a
grand kiosk from the Kaiserberg, Lucknow, sent by Earl Canning, the
first Viceroy of India. A fine specimen of Taxodium distichum, 8 feet
in girth, was inspected here ; also were several trees planted by Royalty.
The extent of the glass for forcing fruit and vegetables is 4^ acres.
There are 31 acres for vegetables inside the walls and 20 acres outside.
There are 150 men employed.

The Show farm was next inspected, the farm breeds and cows and
draught horses all receiving attention. Windsor Park and Forest were
next visited. The great Vine at Cumberland Lodge was also inspected.
The vinery is 138 by 18 feet, and this year there are about 1770 bunches
on the Vine, the age of which is 110 years. The bunches on the young
wood will average from 2 to 3 lbs. weight each. A quick drive then
brought the party to the Virginia Water, a fine sheet of water, the
largest artificial one in England, covering over 130 acres. It was
formed in 1790. Belvedere Fort wms next visited, where a tea had been
provided by the thoughtfulness of Her Majesty, which was much
appreciated. Afterwards, to commemorate the visit, a tree of Abies
Albertiana was presented by Mr. Alex. Milne of Messrs. Dickson and
Sons, Hanover Square, Edinburgh, which was planted, several members
rendering assistance. A beautiful drive to Windsor brought the party
back, passing en route the Cumberland Obelisk, Rhododendron Drive,
and the Long Walk.

Afterwards the annual dinner was held in the White Hart Hotel, Mr.
J; Methven, sen., Vice-President, in the chair, in the absence of Professor
Balfour. The usual loyal and patriotic toasts were given. The Chair¬
man, Mr. F. Simmonds, gave “ The Health of the Royal Scotch Arbori¬
cultural Society,” which was responded to by the Chairman. Mr.
Malcolm Dunn gave “The English Arboricultural Society” in a kind
and feeling way, which was responded to by Mr. Bernard Cowan and
Mr. Jas. Watts, J.P. Mr. Miller, agent to the Marquis of Salisbury,
made some interesting remarks as to the future of the land question.
He advocated all land, where remote from railway stations, to be
planted with trees, and he mentioned the better the land the better the
results would be.

The next day everyone was astir in good time, as there were several
objects of interest to be still seen in Windsor — St. George’s Chapel,
&c., in front of which the party was photographed. Carriages were
then entered, and a quiet drive took us to Cliveden. On the fine
terrace is a magnificent Magnolia. Tulip Trees and Lombardy Poplars
here reeeived attention, some were 105 feet high. A Yew vista, very
effective and pretty, next drew attention. The glass houses are
numerous, and under the able management of Mr. R. Nesbit are, of
course, in good order. Dropmore, the seat of Lady Fortescue, was then
visited, and this is noted for its fine collection of Coniferm, which have
often been mentioned in these pages.

The celebrated Burnham Beeches was then visited, Mr. H. J.
Veitch, who joined the party at Cliveden, and proved a most instructive
guide. The party was also joined here by Mr. Penney, late head gardener
to the Prince of Wales. The Beeches w'ere much admired, and the
drive very pleasant through the woods. After a short drive the grounds
of Mr. Harry Veitch were inspected. A halt was made at Stoke Pogis
to visit the grave of Gray, who wrote his well-known elegy in a country
churchyard. A drive to Windsor, and portmanteaus all quickly
packed, we are soon into our special train, and arrived at Southampton
the same day, to be ready the next day for the New Forest.

We were all up in time the following day to catch the 8.30 boat to
Hythe, half hour drive brings to Beaulieu. There is the remains of a
fine old monastery, the ruins of which was covered with Clematis Vitalba,
and also Myrtus communis was in bloom here. From Beaulieu we had
one and a half hour’s drive to Lyndhurst, where the party was received
by the Hon. Gerald Lascelles, the Deputy Surveyor in charge. A visit
was also made to Marwood, the seat of Sir William Harcourt, M.P.
Returning to London Kew Gardens and the Exhibition at Earl’s
Court were visited on Saturday. The party then dispersed, about fifty
going home from Euston, the rest visiting Hatfield on Monday.—
Bernard Cowan F.R.H.S.

August 24, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

no

EPILOBIUM OBCORDATUM.

Th?e dwarf-growing Epilobiums, many of which are suitable for
growing on rockeries, are not so well known in gardens as some of the
taller species and varieties. Amongst the former E. obcordatum
(fig. 27) may be mentioned, for although by no means a new plant, it is
worthy of extended cultivation. It is a native of the Rocky Mountains,
where it is found at over 1000 feet above sea level. It is perfectly
hardy in our gardens, standing any amount of drought, and the present
season has suited this plant admirably, flowering as it has done
incessantly from June until the present time. Dry sunny slopes are the
places to be chosen on which to plant it. It soon covers the plaee
allotted to it. The flowers vary from three to five on each stem, over
an inch in diameter, and of a lovely dark rose colour. It is easily
injured by damp during the winter season, and should be protected by
a “ cloche ” or piece of glass raised above the plant, so as to allow free
access of air. A difficulty is often experienced in propagating it, but
in heat it roots readily at this season, when the cuttings have been
thoroughly ripened.

HORTICULTURAL SHOWS.

TAUNTON DEANE. — August 10th.

This flourishing Society held its twenty-sixth annual Exhibition at
Vivary Park on the above date under most favourable auspices ;
the weather, that most important element in success or failure of
horticultural exhibitions, having been all that could be wished for ; indeed
the Society has been most fortunate in this respect, for it is stated
that of the twenty-six exhibitions only one of them was marred
by a thoroughly wet day. At these exhibitions it has been my
happiness to have officiated as judge for the last twenty-one years
uninteruptedly, during which time I need not say great changes have
taken place. Secretaries, committee, judges, and exhibitors have alike
changed, and perhaps I was almost the only one present at the meeting
who could look back to an official connection with the Society for so long,
and now having attained my majority I think that it is most probable
that my connection also with it will cease.

With regard to the Exhibition itself the same change has also taken
place. The main features of it are indeed the same ; two large tents of
plants and flowers, the fruit and vegetables, the cottagers’ productions
(always most creditable here), are the same as heretofore. These were
well filled, although there were some gaps owing to the earliness of the
season, but on the whole it was remarkable what fine collections had
been got together. The plan which has been adopted of late years of
placing collections of large plants, which filled the middle of the tent
on the ground instead of that on stages, is an excellent innovation.
Formerly it was rather the pots than the plants which were seen, but
now visitors can look down upon the plants and see them in their full
beauty.

On entering the first tent we are confronted by the splendid collec¬
tions of Mr. James Cypher of Cheltenham. In class. 1, for twelve stove
and greenhouse plants, were Statice profusa (this is one of the most
splendid plants of this kind ever exhibited). Erica obata purpurea.
Erica Aitoniana Turnbulli, Bougainvillea glabra, Allamanda nobilis,
Allamanda Hendersoni, Dipladenia amabilis (very good),Ixora Pilgrimi,
Ixora Williamsi, and Anthurium Scherzerianum ; this was a very
fine specimen and well flowered. The same firm was first in class 2,
for six stove and greenhouse plants, which consisted of the following : —
Erica Irbyana, Erica Austiniana, Allamanda nobilis, Statice profusa,
Ixora Pilgrimi, and Ixora Williamsi. For foliage plants Mr. Cypher was
again first. He had grand specimens of Kentia Fosteriana, Kentia
australis, Latania borbonica, Croton montefontainensis, Croton
Thompsoni, Croton Chelsoni, Dasylirion acrotrichum, Cordyline indivisa ;
these plants were all vigorous, clean, and well grown, Mr, Cypher’s
collections were undoubtedly the cream of the Exhibition as far as
plants were concerned, although some very excellent exhibits were staged
by Mr. Brock of Exeter and Mr. Mould of Pewsey, Wilts ; in fact,
there was a smaller gap between the first and second collections than on
many previous occasions, showing that the excellence of culture was
more widely diffused.

Considerable changes have taken place in the character of the
plants exhibited under what may be termed greenhouse plants. I can
look back on the time when one whole side of the tent was occupied
with various classes of Pelargoniums — Zonal, Nosegay, gold and silver
variegated, and bronze, while neither Begonias or herbaceous plants
were to be seen . Now this is changed, and the two latter classes have come
prominently forward, although one of the best exhibitors of Begonias, the
Mayor of Taunton, was unable to put in an appearance, as his plants had
nearly all gone out of flower. This was a great disappointment to many,
as his collections were always well grown, and comprised the best
novelties. At the entrance to the tent a stand of Begonias and other
flowers, exhibited by Mr. Davis of Yeovil, whose strain of Begonias,
both single and double, is so well known. I had made a list of these,
but unfortunately have mislaid it. There were several stands of the
ever-attractive herbaceous plants. These were shown in large bunches
of flowers, the most conspicuous of which came from Mr. Pritchard,
the well-known nurseryman at Christchurch, Hants. At this end of
the tent was a flne stand of Messrs, Kelway & Son’s seedling Gladioli,

for two of which first-class certificates were awarded. This firm had
also other hardy flowers, making altogether a grand display. The cut
flowers were exhibited on the other side of the tent, and consisted of
Roses, Gladioli, Asters, Dahlias, Verbenas, Hollyhocks, and Begonias,
Many of these showed unmistakeably the effects of the weather. Holly¬
hocks and Verbenas being especially poor.

I was surprised to see Roses so well shown as they were. Although
few in number they were excellent in quality, being well exhibited by
Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co., and Mr. Budd of Bath. For thirty -six
varieties the former obtained the first prize. The varieties were — Back
row : Charles Lefebvre, Mrs. J. Laing, Capt. Christy, Comte Raimbaud,
Hon. Edith Gifford, A. K, Williams, John Hopper, S(5nateur Vaisse, The
Bride, Xavier Olibo, Paul Neyron, In second row : La France, Etienne
Levet, Climbing Niphetos, Lady Arthur Hill, Lady Mary Fitzwilliam,
John S. Mill, Princess Vera, a very good Tea ; Jean Soupert, very rich

FIG. 27. — EPILOBIUM OBCORDATUM.

and dark ; Amazon, Charles Lamb, Perle des Jardins, Lady Sheffield.
In the third row : Beauty of Waltham, Sunset, a good bloom ; Grand
Mogul, identical with Jean Soupert ; Madame Hoste, a very beautiful
bloom of a good Tea ; Comtesse d’Oxford, Mar^chal Niel, Souvenir de
Madame Metral, Devoniensis, Ferdinand de Lesseps, May Rivers, a very
pretty China Tea ; Madame Cusin, Dupuy Jamain, Mr. S. P, Budd was
a very good second. In the class for eighteen singles Messrs. Keynes,
Williams & Co. were again first with the following varieties — La France,
Madame Victor Verdier, Mrs. J. Laing, Marie Margot, Marquise de
Castellane, Alfred Colomb, A. K. Williams, Edith Gifford, Countess of
Rosebery, Perle des Jardins, Horace Vernet, Lady Mary Fitzwilliam,
Princess of Wales, Duchess of Bedford, Comtesse de Nadaillac, very good
in colour ; Gustave Piganeau, Madame Hoste, and Charles Lefebvre. The
same firm had some excellent stands of Dahlias in the various sections
of show, fancy. Cactus, and single varieties. The Cactus Dahlias,
especially, were fine ; two were certificated, and one of these, Gloriosa,
was of a brilliant colour, and promises to be an effective addition to this
cIrss

The Mayor of Taunton’s (Mr. W. H. Fowler) Gladioli were as usual
of surpassing excellence, but it may serve as an illustration of the
extraordinary character of the season, for whereas in 1892 he had a
difficulty in obtaining the requisite number of varieties because his
flowers were not in bloom, this year he had the same difficulty from
another cause, viz., that nearly all his flowers were over. His stand of
twenty-four comprised the following fine varieties : Grand Rouge,

180

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 24, 1893.

Shakespeare, Grand Vainqueur (a splendid flower), Mont Blanc (a grand
white), Baroness Burdett Coutts (very large and fine), Countess Craven,
Giganteus, Prot^e (a very beautiful flower), Fantonine, Ali, Adolphe
Brogniart, Medicis, Oriflamtne (very bright), Dalilah, Cam^leon, Mons,
Chevrueil, Le Vesuve.

The second tent was to a great extent a reproduction of the first, the
main difference being that the nurserymen do not compete, and con¬
sequently amateurs have a better scope for their exhibits. At the
entrance of this tent Messrs. Kobert Veitcb & Son of Exeter had a stand
of varied and beautiful flowers, conspicuous amongst which were
two varieties of Lilium auratum — namely, plataphilaum and rubro-
vitatum ; flowering and foliage plants from Mr. Brock of Exeter, and
Miss Todd of Southampton, and Mr, Wilfred Marshall, whom I am glad
to see resuming his place amongst exhibitors. Mr. Tottie’s Fuchsias
were, as usual, good. In Eoses Dr. Budd occupied the leading position
as far as H.P.’s were concerned, but that veteran florist, Mr. Hobbs of
Lower Easton, Bristol, was a good second. For twelve Teas the Mayor
of Taunton held the first place ; his flowers were Edith Gifford,
Madame de Watteville, Anna Olivier, Cleopatra, Princess of Wales,
Comtesse de Nadaillac, fine in colour ; Ernest Metz, Madame Cusin,
Souvenir de Ther^se Levet, Marie Van Houtte, Sappho, and The Bride.
Dr. Budd was second with fine flowers, but showing little variation
of colour.

It must not be supposed that I have attempted to give anything like
a detailed account of all the exhibits of this remarkable Show. I have
but selected a few of the most salient points, with the object of convey¬
ing to your readers how thoroughly horticulture is patronised in the
west. When I think of the feeble exhibitions which are held in my own
county and in the neighbouring ones, and contrast them with the
vigorous and sustained efforts which mark our western friends, I feel
ashamed of our apathy. There is one thing, however, in which Taunton
people have be? a most highly favoured, and that is in the character of
the weather on their show days, as I have already said ; but there is
another element of their success which must not be omitted — namely,
the excellence of all the arrangements. I know no Society which is
happier in this respect. The courtesy of the Secretaries, and the energy
with which the Committee carry out their duties, leave nothing to be
desired. Judges and exhibitors may alike wish that for many years
they may carry out the same courtesy and energy, duties which, how¬
ever pleasant, are not light, but, at any rate, they have their reward in
the gratitude of all concerned. — D., Deal.

[The vegetables and fruit were dealt with on page 157, last week.]

CAKDIFF. — AtTGTJST 15th AND 16th.

There is every prospect of this Society becoming one of the most
prominent in the south-western counties. Already it quite takes the
lead in the Principality, and, thanks to the energy and untiring zeal of
its Secretary, Mr. H. Gillett, and a good working Committee, such
progress is being made as to quite render the Society worthy of such an
important town as Cardiff.

In the open classes Mr. J. Cypher was well to the front, taking first
prizes with twelve stove and greenhouse plants in bloom, eight fine-
foliaged plants, and four Orchids. In each instance Messrs. Heath and
Son, Cheltenham, were a creditable second. Mr. Cypher’s flowering
plants consisted of Ixoras Pilgrimi and Williamsi, Phoenocoma prolifera
Barnesi, Allamanda nobilis. Bougainvillea glabra, Statices Gilbert! and
profusa. Ericas Marnockiana, Austiniana, and Aitoniana Turnbulli, all
fresh and good. The fine-foliaged plants consisted of Crotons Queen
Victoria, Chelsoni, and Montfontanensis beautifully coloured ; Kentia
Belmoreana and Canterburyana, Cycas revoluta, and a Caryota. The
Orchids were Dendrobium phalsenopsis, with four spikes ; Calanthe
veratrifolia, Vanda coerulea, and Cattleya Dowiana. The best six
Fuchsias were shown by Mr. Hillard, a working shoemaker, and were
fine pyramids of Mrs. Bundle, Beacon, Try Me, Oh I Marginata,
Charming, and King, Mr. J. Clarke, gardener to Colonel Sir G. S,
Hill, was second. For exotic Ferns Mr. J. Clarke was a good first, but
was only second for six Zonal Pelargoniums, Mr. J. Hillard being again
first with extra large well-flowered specimens. The Tuberous Begonias
were remarkably fine, and with these Mr. J. Malpas, gardener to
E. Jenkins, Esq., Penyland, was first. In the amateurs’ tent Fuchsias
again made a good display, Mr. J, Clarke being first with excellent
pyramids of Mrs. F. Glass, Kose of Castille, Beacon, and Display. Mr.
J. Hillard was a creditable second. Mr. Clarke had the first prize for
stove and greenhouse flowering plants, among these being Justicia
carnea freely flowered and Clerodendron Balfourianum. For fine-
foliaged plants, Mr. Pettigrew, Cardiff Castle Gardens, was an easy
first, staging fine healthy specimens of Kentia borbonica, Cycas revoluta,
Phoenix compacta, and Latania borbonica. Mr. J. Malpas, gardener to
E. Jenkins, Esq., Penyland, was second ; and Mr. J. Hockey, gardener
to Colonel C, H. Page, third. Mr. Malpas was first for Caladiums, and
Mr. J, Clarke second, while for Zonal Pelargoniums Mr. J, Clarke was
first, Mr, J. Oxenham second, and Mr. H. Rex, gardener to C. Waldron,
third. The best Tuberous Begonias were shown by Mr. J. Blackmore,
gardener to A, Duncan, Esq., Mr. T. Malpas being second, and Mr. A.
Whitefield, third, Mr. Pettigrew was awarded a first prize for a grand
standard Ivy-leaf Pelargonium.

One tent was wholly devoted to groups, three classes being provided.
The premier prize for a group to occupy a space occupying 100 square
feet, was well won by Mr. W. J. Hockey, gardener to Colonel Page,
Cardiff. This group was in the form of a circle, the centre consisting of
a good Kentia raised rather high, and springing out of a bank of Fern,

Liliums, bright coloured Crotons, Celosias, and others. Just clear of this
a circular mound was formed of Maidenhair Fern, out of which sprung
numerous elegant Palms, Crotons, Dracmnas, Begonias, and a few Glox¬
inias and other fiowering plants. Mr. F. Case, Cardiff, was a fairly
good second, and R. Phelps & Co., Cardiff, third. Three competed with
half-circular groups, Mr. J. Clarke being a good first, and Mr. H. Rex
second. With still smaller ' groups Mr. E. Lewis was a good first, and
Mr. R. Jordan, gardener to J. C. Meggett, Esq., third.

Cut flowers, in both the open and amateurs’ tents, were remarkably
good, and the competition very keen. Particularly good were the Roses.
The best twelve triplets were shown by Mr. Crossling, Penarth, who had
fine fresh blooms of Duke of Wellington, Duchess of Bedford, Mrs. J.
Laing, Victor Verdier, La France, Marie Baumann, Lord Bacon, Fisher
Holmes, Captain Christy, A. K. Williams, Victor Hugo, and Lady Mary
Fitzwilliam. Dr. Budd, Bath, was a good second, his best being
C. Lefebvre, A. Colomb, Horace Vernet, Duchess of Bedford, and
La France. An extra prize was awarded to Messrs. Keynes, Williams,
and Co., Salisbury. The Teas were even better than the Hybrid Per-
petuals. With twelve triplets of these Mr. J. Treseder, Cardiff, was
first, having fine fresh blooms of Comtesse de Nadaillac, The Bride,
Ernest Metz, Marie Van Houtte, C, Mermet, Madame Bravy, Hon.
Edith Gifford, Ethel Brownlow, Perle des Jardins, Princess Beatrice,
and Francisca Kruger. Dr. Budd was second, and an extra prize went
to Messrs. Keynes, Williams, & Co. The best twenty-four single blooms,
any varieties, were shown by Messrs. Keynes, Williams, & Oo., Dr. Budd
being second. The class for twelve Teas was a grand one. Mr. S.
Treseder was first. The second prize was awarded to Dr. Budd, and Mr.
R. Crossling received an extra prize. Mr. G. Humphries, Chippenham,
succeeded in winning the first prize for twenty-four Dahlias, among
these being very fine blooms of G. Barnes, J. Walker, Crimson Ring,

E. S. Rawlings, Colonist, Mrs. Gladstone, Mrs. Saunders, Queen of the
Belgians, and Mr. Glasscock. Messrs. Keynes, Williams, & Co. were
second. The last named took the lead with twelve bunches of Cactus
Dahlias, making a very effective display with Bertha Mawley, Delicata,
Apollo, Kaiserin, Countess of Radnor, and Countess of Gosford. In Mr.
Humphries’ second prize stand were good blooms of Alpha, the best
white Cactus flowering Dahlia yet raised. Mr. Garraway, Bath, was
first, and Mr. Every, Bath, second, with Asters ; and Mr. G. Blackmore,
gardener to A. Duncan, Esq., was first with Begonia blooms. Gladioli
were not particularly good. Mr. J. Tant was first, and Mr. G. Shewring
second for twenty-four varieties. Herbaceous flowers were grandly
shown. Mr. G. Garraway was first for these, and Mr. G. Shewring
second. Asters were shown remarkably well by Mr. J. Lloyd, gardener
to Vincent Stuckey, Esq., Langport, Mr. G. Garraway being a good
second.

Wreaths, crosses, and bouquets are always grandly shown at Cardiff,
but the exhibitors of the best examples on this occasion did not always
meet with their desserts. Mr. W. Treseder was placed first, and Mr.

F. Case second for a wreath, both having magnificent exhibits, such
flowers as Lilium lancifolium album, Gladiolus The Bride, Francoa
ramosa, Roses, Stephanotis, Arums, and Tuberoses being very freely
used. For a cross, R. Phelps & Co., Cardiff, were first, but that shown
by Mr. F. Case should have been preferred, instead of being placed
second. Mr. W. Treseder had a first for a grand bridal bouquet, Mr.
F. Case being a close second, while for a coloured bouquet Messrs.
Phelps & Co. were first, and Mr. R. Treseder second. The dining
tables were not of great merit.

It is in the fruit department where the greatest strides have been
made, the exhibits being more numerous, and the quality generally of
marked improvement. Eight competed, with six bunches of Grapes in
six varieties, and curiously enough the Judges were not equal to decid¬
ing which exhibit deserved the first prize. Mr. Dawes, gardener to Mrs.
Biddulph, Ledbury, and Mr. E. Silk, gardener to F. M. Franklin, Esq,,
were placed equal first, the former having good Alnwick Seedling, Black
Hamburgh, and Muscat of Alexandria, and the latter fine but not well
coloured Gros Maroc, poor Muscat of Alexandria, and good Black Ham¬
burgh. Mr. J. Lloyd was placed third for some fine bunches. With
Black Hamburgh Mr. Silk was first, having extra fine and well coloured
bunches ; the second prize to Mr. J. Greatrex, gardener to Miss Rous,
who also had fine bunches. For Muscats Mr. Dawes was first, and
Mr. Lloyd second. Mr. Silk staged fine Foster’s Seedling, and was first,
the second prize going to Mr. Lloyd. Mr. Silk was also first for any
other white, having fairly good Golden Queen ; Mr. F. Crossman,
gardener to Captain Dick, being second with Buckland Sweetwater.
Alicantes were shown in fine condition by Mr. Dawes, Mr. S. Bowditch,
gardener to Colonel Gaskell, being a good second. There were also
several single bunch classes. Melons were quite a feature in the
display, and with these Mr. A. Pettigrew was most successful, taking
first for single fruit, and for pairs in three different classes, Messrs.
E. Lewis, J. Dawes, J. Portsmouth, gardener to H. W. Well, Esq., being
the other prizewinners. A dish of very pale Alexandra Noblesse Peach
gained Mr. J. Oswald, gardener to W. T. Crawshay, Esq., a first prize,
Mr. H. Morgan being second. In the class for Nectarines Mr. F. Case
was first with Pineapple, a handsome dish of Lord Napier shown by
Mr. Dawes being placed second.

Apples were grandly shown. For four dessert varieties the Fruit
and Flower Company, Hereford, were first, having Lady Sudeley,
Duchess of Worcester, Worcester Pearmain, Yellow Ingestre, Astrachan,
and Evagil. Mr. J. Lloyd was a very close second. The Fruit and
Flower Company were also first for culinary Apples, the varieties being
Peasgood’s Nonesuch, Lord Suffield, Frogmore Prolific, Lord Grosvenor,

August 24, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

181

Cellini, and Potts’ Seedling. Mr. W. J. Hockey was second. The prizes
offered for a collection of six dishes of fruit are scarcely worthy of the
Society, and the wording of the schedule was decidedly faulty. Mr.
J. Dawes was first with good Gros Maroc and Muscat of Alexandria
Grapes, Eastnor Castle Melon, very fine Barrington Peaches, Humboldt
Nectarines, and Jefferson Plums. Mr. J. Lloyd was second, losing
principally owing to having one variety of Grape only, his construing of
the schedule being the right one.

Another tent was wholly filled with vegetables. The best collection
of nine varieties was shown by Mr. G. She wring, Mr. A. Baxter being a
good second. The first of Messrs. Webb’s prizes was won by Mr, Every,
Mr. Garraway being a close second. Mr. J. Portsmouth was the winner
of Messrs. Sutton & Son’s first prize, the second going to Mr. W. J.
Hockey. The principal prizewinners in the numerous other classes
were Messrs. Baxter, Greatrex, Shewring, Porter, J. Richards, W. Hillier,
and W. Moore.

In the non-competitive classes Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son arranged
a very attractive group of Orchids, Sarracenias, Palms, and other choice
plants, for which they were very highly commended. One side of a
tent was wholly occupied with a group of hardy and heat-loving Ferns
brought from Sale, Manchester, by Messrs. Birkenhead, and near to
these was a grand display of Gladioli, Gaillardias, and such like by
Messrs. Kelway & Sons, Langport. Messrs. Edwards & Son, Notting¬
ham, exhibited a large number of fancy pots and baskets filled with
Ferns, and the display of a somewhat similar character being made
by Messrs. Heath &; Son, Cheltenham. Messrs. T. H. Grasp k. Co.,
nurserymen, &c., Swansea, had several hand bouquets, wreaths, and
crosses on view, and the local nurserymen lent a considerable number of
plants for filling up blank spaces.

WILTS.— Augtjst 16th.

Favoured by charming weather the Wilts Horticultural Society
held the annual Exhibition of plants, cut flowers, fruit, and vegetables,
in the Earl of Pembroke’s beautiful park at Witton, near Salisbury,
on the 16th inst.

In the open classes three good exhibits of twelve stove and green¬
house plants, six foliage and six flowering, were staged by Mr. Pinch,
gardener to J. Marriott, Esq., Queen’s Road, Coventry ; Mr. Willes,
Winchester Road, Shirley ; and Mr. Peel, gardener to Miss Todd,
Lidford Lodge, Southampton, and t’ne prizes were awarded to them in
the order in which their names appear. The first prize dozen consisted
of well flowered plants of Ixora Fraseri, Clerodendron Balfouriana,
Dipladenia Thomas Speed, Erica Irbyana (about 6 feet over), E. Mar-
nockiana, Phcenocoma prolifera Barnesi, Kentia Fosteriana, K. australis,
Cycas circinalis, Latania borbonica, Croton Queen Victoria, and
C. Morti, the Crotons being well coloured. In the class for nine stove
and greenhouse plants, four in bloom and five foliage, there were
three entries. Mr. T. Wilkins, gardener to Lady Theodore Guest,
Inwood House, Henstridge, was first ; Mr. Peel second, and Mr. Willes
was third, all staging good plants. Mr. Wilkins had the best half
dozen of exotic Ferns, showing fine healthy looking plants of Cyathea
medullaris, Davallia Mooreana, Adiantum Farleyense (a grand plant),
Thamnopteris nidus avis, Adiantum cuneatum, and Gymnogramma
Wettenhalliana. Mr. Peel was a creditable second. Mr. A. Bedford,
Harnham Nursery, Salisbury, was first for pyramidal Fuchsias, Mr.
George Fulford, gardener to Earl Nelson, Trafalgar Park, Salisbury,
being awarded the third prize for smaller but well flowered plants.
There were only two entries. Mr. A. Robey, gardener to Captain
Greenwood, Harnham Cliff, Salisbury, was first in the class for six
Tuberous Begonias ; Mr. E. Willes was second, and Mr. Thomas Wilkins
third.

Groups of plants arranged for effect formed a feature. Mr. Willes
was first for a light and well finished arrangement, “dot plants’’ of
brightly coloured Crotons, Celosias, Ixoras, Bridal Wreath (Francoa
ramosa). Tuberoses, Asparagus, small Palms set in a groundwork of
Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum cuneatum), with a Palm at the back,
which gave a dignified effect to the group. Mr. Wilkins was
second with a similar group. Mr. Robey was third. There were five
entries in this class. The group confined to gentlemen’s gardeners
only brought out two contestants for the honours offered, Messrs.
Wilkins and Peel, who with good arrangements took the prizes in that
order.

The silver cup, value £5, open to amateurs within a radius of six
miles of Salisbury, given by the Right Worshipful the Mayor of
Salisbury (A. Whitehead, Esq.), for a group of plants arranged in a
semicircle of 10 feet in diameter, only brought forth two entries, Mr.
Frank Pearce, High Street, Salisbury, and Mr. Alderman Lovibond,
St. Anne Street, also of Salisbury, who took the prizes in that
order with tastefully set up arrangements. Mr. Hinxman, gardener
to H. C. Gregory, Esq., The Island, Fisherton, Salisbury, led in the
class for a group arranged in a semicircle, 8 feet in diameter, being
closely followed by Mr. Ford, gardener to M. Swayne Esq., The
Island, Witlon, and Mr. C. Hamlin, The Close, Salisbury, all for
creditable arrangements. Mr. J. Chalk, gardener to Mrs. Rigden,
Belle Vue, Salisbury, had the best six Ferns, distinct ; Mr. G. Hibbert,
gardener to Miss Nightingale, Witton, was second ; and Mr. Aider-
man Lovibond third. The last named exhibitor had the best half
dozen plants of Coleus, and Mr. J. Rockett, gardener to George
.Smith, Esq., Westbourne, Salisbury, was second, both showing well. Mr.
A. Robey was first for six Tuberous-rooted Begonias; Mr. J. Hughes,
gardener to W. Baring, Esq., Norman Court, Salisbury, was second,
and Mr. J, Scammel, gardener to J. R. Kendle, Esq., Witton, third.

Mr. Hinxman was first for three pots of Liliums, and Mr. C. Hamlin
was second.

Fruit was shown remarkably well. Eight collections of eight kinds
(Pine Apple excluded) were staged, Mr. H. W. Ward, gardener to the
Earl of Radnor, Longford Castle, Salisbury, being well ahead with large
solid bunches of Muscat of Alexandria, large in berry and well coloured ;
heavy bunches of Black Hamburgh, fine in berry and finish, and carrying
a good bloom ; fine Blenheim Orange Melon, large Sea Eagle Peaches,
fine Brunswick Figs, white Magnum Bonum Plums, large, clean, and
beautifully coloured Bon Chrltien Pears, and Pineapple Nectarines, the
latter being the only weak dish in the collection. Mr. A. Crossman,
gardeaer to J. Brutton, Esq., Yeovil, was a good second. Mr. Charles
Warden, gardener to Sir F. H. Bathurst, Bart., Clarendon Park, Salis¬
bury, being a close third. Mr. H. W. Ward was also first for three
bunches of Muscats ; Mr. J. Fewtrell, gardener to Charles C. Tudway,
Esq., The Cedars, Wells, Somerset, being sec nd ; and Mr. J. Budd,
gardener to F. J. Dalgetty, Esq., Lockerley Hdll, R m;ey, third. In
the class for any other white Grape than Muscat of AUxandria, Mr. Ward
was first with handsome bunches of Golden Queen, Mr. Warden being
secsnd with heavy lunches of Buckland Sweetwater, and Mr. P. R.
Dav dson, gardener to Lord Wolvertoa, Iw.rue Hou?e, Shafteebury, was
third with the same variety. There were seven entries in this class.
Mr. James Chalk, gardener to George Read, Esq., Westwood, Salisbury,
was first for Black Hamburghs, showing three good-sized bunches. Mr,
Warden and Mr. Ward were second and third respectively with smaller
but better coloured bunches. In the “ any other ’’ black class Mr.
Warden was first in a good competition, staging fine shapely bunches of
Muscat Hamburgh, fine in berry and well coloured. Mr. Davidson was
second with B'ack Alicante, somewhat loose in the bunch, and Mr.
Hughes was third with same variety. Mr. Crossman was first for Pine
Apple, showing a medium-sized Queen, large in the pips, and highly
coloured. Mr. Budd was second, a larger Queen, a little green about the
pips, and a good-sized Cayenne being passed by the Judges. Out of
fourteen Melons staged Mr. Palmer, Conden “Villa,” Andover, was first
for a variety named “ County Councillor,” Mr. Hughes being second,
showing a nice fruit of Hero of Lockinge.

Apples and Pears were well shown. Mr. Frederick Smith, gardener
to the Bishop of Salisbury, The Palace, Salisbury, was, as is usual at
this Show, first for three dishes of dessert Apples, staging even, clean,
well coloured fruits of Worcester Pearmain, Mabbott’s Pcarmain, and
Cbline. Mr. Evans, gardener to Lady Ashburton, Melchet Court,
Romsey, was second ; and Mr. Hughes third. Mr. Wilkins had
premier honours in the corresponding class for culinary varieties, show¬
ing fine fruits of Blenheim Orange, Lord Suffield, and Peasgood’s
Nonesuch. Mr. Evans was sicond; and Mr. Inglefield, gardener to
Sir John Kelk, Bart., Tedworth House, Marlborough, was third. Mr.
Hughes was first for four dishes of Pears, being closely followed by
Mr. F. Smith and Mr. Browning, gardener to Canon Sir Talbot Baker,
Ranstone, Blandfoid. Mr. Wilkins was first for Peaches with six even
highly coloured fruits of Sea Eagle, Mr. Hughes being second with
Barrington. Mr. Chalk was first for Nectarines with good fruits of
Pineapple.

Three collections of twelve kinds of vegetables were shown by Messrs.
Wilkins, Inglefield, and Mr. A. J. Allsop, gardener to Viscount Portman,
Brynstone House, Blandford, by whom the prizes were taken in the
order indicated. Mr. Wilkins’ collection contained fine examples of
Autumn Giant Cauliflower, Sutton’s Perfection Tomato, Favourite
Onions of immense size, fine shape, and very firm ; Satisfaction Potato,
Stratagem Peas, New Intermediate Carrot, Exhibition Beet, Lyon Leek,
Ne Plus Ultra Runner Bean, Model Cucumber, and Giant White Celery,
the whole being very tastefully set up with green Parsley.

The cut flower classes were well filled, and Dr. D. Seaton, Rutland
Lodge, Bitterne, Hants (gardener, Mr. Pomroy),was well first for twenty-
four Roses, single trusses. Mr. Evans was first for twelve Roses,
distinct, with good blooms. Mr. Budd was a good first in the class for
eighteen bunches cut flowers. Dahlias were shown well by Mr. West
and Mr. C. Hooper, and Asters by Mr. Browning.

Messrs. Keynes, Williams, & Co. contributed an artistic arrangement
of cut flowers and plants, also eight stands of Show, Fancy, and Cactus
Dahlias. Messrs. Robert Veitch & Son, Exeter, had a fine and rare
assortment of herbaceous and alpine plants in great variety, also a good
assortment of Apples, the fruits being of fine size, clean, even, and
many of them being very highly coloured. Mr. Ladhatrs, Shirley, also
greatly helped in rendering the flower tents both interesting and attrac¬
tive by a liberal contribution of herbaceous and alpine flowers, which
served to illustrate the utility and attractiveness of these, in many
places, neglected hardy plants.

EARL’S COURT.— August 23rd and 24th.

A SPECIAL Show of Gladioli, Dahlias, with other flowers and fruit
was held at the Gardening and Forestry Exhibition, Earl’s Court, on
the above dates. The tent in which the Show was held was fairly well
filled, and most of the exhibits, considering the season, were of good
quality. Gladioli and Dahlias were fairly represented, but comparatively
few Asters were forthcoming. Miscellaneous floral exhibits made a
good display, as also did fruit. Rain fell heavily on the opening day,
and the Show was not numerously attended.

The principal class provided was for 100 spikes of Gladioli, but here
only one firm competed. This was Messrs. J. Burrell k Co., Howe House
Nurseries, Cambridge, to whom the first prize was awarded. The spikes
shown by Messrs. Burrell were grand, being large in size and brilliant
and varied in colouring. Space will not permit us to give the whole of

182

JOURNAL OF HORTIODuTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 24, 1893,

the varieties shown, but the names of a few of the most striking may
be interesting. These included Grand Rouge, Baroness Burdett Coutts,
Cygnet, Atlas, Flambeau, Florence, lolanthe, Corinne, Muriel, Fiamette,
Castilda, and Tessa. First-class certificates were awarded for the last
four varieties. In the class for twelve varieties Mr. D.Witlaw, Brechin,
Scotland, was the only exhibitor, and the first prize was awarded for a
collection of fine spikes. The best of these were Enchantress, Dr.
Bailley, Grand Rouge, Opale, Sultane, Pyramid, Tiger, and Baroness
Burdett Coutts. Messrs. Kelway & Sons, Langport, were awarded a
silver-gilt medal for a fine collection of Gladioli, comprising seventy-two
spikes of the leading kinds, also nine new varieties. Among the latter
were Boston, Kate Marsden, Palene, Admiral Marden, Mariana,
and Indiana, the last-named a very deep coloured variety. A first-class
certificate was awarded for a charming variety named Sir Michael
Culme Seymour. Messrs. Kelway & Sons also had some boxes of Asters,
Gaillardias, and miscellaneous hardy flowers.

Dahlias were shown in good condition, although not so extensively
as might have been expected. There were five exhibitors in the class
for twenty-four Show and Fancy Dahlias, and the competition was very
keen. Mrs. S. Mortimer, Rowledge, Farnham, succeeded in winning the
first prize with a stand of fine, clean, and even blooms. The best of
these included Mrs. Saunders, Reliance, Mrs. George Rawlings, Maud
Fellows, Henry Walton, Eclipse, Duke of Fife, Diadem, Sunbeam, and
Harrison Weir. Mr. C. Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough, was a close
second with even flowers. Colonist, W. Keith, Miss Cannell, Hope, and
Crimson King being particularly fine. Mr. M. V. Seale, Vine Nurseries,
Sevenoaks, was third with smaller flowers.

In the class for twelve Show and Fancy Dahlias there were also five
exhibitors, and Mr. T. Vagg, gardener to J. Theobald, Esq., M.P.,
Bedfords, Havering, Romford, won the leading prize. The finest
flowers in this stand were Prince of Denmark, John Walker, Mrs.
Gladstone, and William Rawlings. Mr. A. Ocock, gardener to Mrs.
McIntosh, Havering Park, Romford, was second, and Mr. J, G. Fowler,
Glebelands, South Woodford, third.

The single Dahlias were exceedingly good, and it is a pity that there
were not more exhibitors, Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, The Nurseries,
Crawley, secured the flrst prize for twenty-four bunches, showing the
principal varieties. Amongst others Victoria, The Bride, Lowfield
Beauty, Eclipse, Alba Perfecta, and Formosa were very good. Mr.
M. V. Seale followed with an attractive stand, the third award going to
Mr. E, F. Such, The Nurseries, Maidenhead, Mr. Seale was first,
however, for twenty-four bunches of Pompon varieties, the best of
which were Red Indian, Whisper, Favourite, and Dorothy, Mr. C.
Turner was second, and Messrs, J. Cheal & Sons third. The last-
named firm was, however, first for nine bunches of Cactus and
decorative Dahlias. The most attractive of these were Duchess of
York, Delicata, Charming Bride, and Bertha Mawley. Mr. Seale gained
the second prize, and Mr. C. Turner followed closely.

Miscellaneous floral exhibits were more numerous than those in the
competitive classes. Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons sent a collection of Cactus,
decorative, and Pompon Dahlias, tastefully arranged in bunches (silver
medal). Mr. S. Mortimer had a large number of Show and Fancy
Dahlias, the blooms being clean and brightly coloured. A similar
collection came from Mr. B. F. Such, who also had some summer
flowering Chrysanthemums (silver medal). Mr. W. Salmon, 2, Ivy
Cottages, Elder Road, West Norwood, sent hardy flowers, arranged in
bunches, and a collection of Dahlias (silver medal). Messrs. P. Barr
and Sons, Long Ditton, had a collection of Liliums and other hardy
flowers, for which a silver medal was awarded. Messrs. W. Paul
and Son, Waltham Cross, sent a splendid collection of fruit trees
in pots, including Apples, Peaches, Plums, Pears, and Figs.
The trees were remarkably healthy and loaded with fruit. The same
firm also had boxes of cut Roses, dishes of Apples and Pears. This contri¬
bution attracted considerable attention by reason of its diversity and
excellence, and merited the gold medal awarded. Mr. W. Welsford,
South Lambeth, sent a group of annuals in pots, and a collection of
hardy flowers, Mr. J. Hudson, gardener to Messrs, de Rothschild,
Gunnersbury House, Acton, contributed a group of specimen scented¬
leaved Pelargoniums, some of which were 4 feet in height and as much
in diameter. Mr. J. Walborn, Cedars Nursery, West Kensington, had a
small group of plants, comprising Palms, Liliums, and Crotons (silver
medal). Mr. G. Wythes, gardener to the Duke of Northumberland, also
staged Crotons and some well-grown Nepenthes (silver-gilt medal).
Mr. A . W. Young, South Norwood, had some Gloxinia and Begonia blooms.

Fruit formed a feature in the Show, although only one competitive
class was provided. This was for twelve dishes of hardy fruits, and
there were four exhibitors. Mr. Mclndoe, Hutton Hall Gardens,
Guisborough, secured the first prize for a grand collection, comprising
Pitmaston Duchess and Souvenir du Congres Pears, Crawford’s Early
and Violette Hative Peaches, Elruge and Byron Nectarines, Columba and
Jefferson’s Plums, Swedish Reinette and Cox’s Pomona Apples, Morello
Cherries, and Apricots. Mr. G. Wythes was second, this exhibitor
showing a good dish of Mulberries in this collection. The third prize
went to Mr. G. H. Sage, Ham House, Richmond. Mr. J. F. Hoar,
gardener to J. T. Cooper, Esq., The Grange, West Molesey, sent a collec¬
tion of Plums, Cherries, Pears, Peaches, and other fruit. Messrs.

S. Spooner & Son, Hounslow, had a splendid collection of Apples of
bright and clean appearance (silver medal). Mr. W. G. Richerd, gardener
to F. Lilley, Esq., “Croft,” Mount Park, Ealing, sent a number of
dishes of fruit, including ten varieties of Peaches (silver medal). Mr.

T. J. Stacey, Tne Peacheries, Caversham, Reading, had a very large
collection of Melons, for which a silver medal was awarded.

O WEEK.. 1

FRUIT FORCING.

Pines. — Potting Rooted Suckers. — When the suckers obtained from
the summer fruiting plants are ready for repotting, it is well to divide
the plants into two batches. The strongest should be put in 10 or
11-inch pots as soon as they are well rooted, affording them a position
near the glass in a light airy house. The plants so treated will produce
a good successional supply of ripe fruit in late summer or early autumn
next year. The other plants, suckers from the summer fruiters, winter
best in 7 or 8-inch pots, transferring them to larger ones in the spring,
which with suckers of Smooth-leaved Cayenne that were started last
March will provide a successional supply of Pines through the winter
months.

Re-arranging the Plants. — Those plants not fruiting will have com¬
pleted their growths, and should have air liberally for the next six
weeks when the temperature exceeds 80°. All well rooted plants
require a bottom heat of 80° to 85°, but recently potted suckers, or
those not having roots well established in the fresh compost, should have
the bottom heat maintained at 90°.

Fruiting Plants. — Moderate atmospheric moisture will be necessary
for those swelling their fruit, admitting a little air early in the morning,
so as to allow of any superfluous moisture escaping before the sun’s rays
act powerfully or directly upon the fruit. Any fruit it is desired to
retard should be moved to a rather cool or shady house, affording an
abundance of air.

i Figs, — Earliest Trees in Pots. — These may be placed outdoors if the

wood be ripe, but if there is any doubt about this the trees must be con¬
tinued under glass with a free circulation of air. These are matters in
which the cultivator must exercise judgment. In either case encourage
surface roots by a top-dressing of rough loam and manure, with a.
sprinkling of superphosphate occasionally. Those placed outdoors must
not be allowed to root from the base of the pots . Cut off all such roots,
top-dress, after which afford a good watering, and the^ will need no
more water at the roots than is sufficient to keep the foliage in health.

Earliest Fig Houses. — In the house started at the new year and with
the trees planted out the wood will now be ripening, and the supply of
water may be diminished or discontinued, air being given very liberally-
If, however, the second crop is not yet ripened moderate moisture in the
soil will be necessary, with a rather free circulation of warm air to
insure high quality in the fruit. When the fruit is gathered take prompt
measures to destroy insects, syringing forcibly to dislodge red spider,
and remove brown scale with a brush and solution of softsoap, 3 ozg. to
a gallon of water.

Late Houses. — The fruit of trees in cool houses is earlier and flher
this year than usual, and the second-crop Figs are so forward as to be
likely to ripen. If any are left with this object it should be at the base
of the current growth, removing those from the extremities of the shoots.
The great point is to keep the growths thin and the roots restricted, so as
to insure sturdy, short-jointed, well-ripened wood. Keep up a circulation
of air, expose the fruit as much as possible to the sun, and if red spider
be troublesome syringe on a fine morning after a close picking of
the fruit, and give no more water than is absolutely needful for the well
being of the plants.

Unsatisfactory Trees. — Planted-out Fig trees not unfrequently grow
rampantly, and in consequence produce thin crops of fruit. In that
case root-pruning should be resorted to, and the roots confined to a
narrow border of from 3 to 4 feet width, A trench taken out at this
distance from the stem after the fruit is gathered will check the tendency
to a late growth, assist in the ripening of the wood, more especially if
the growths are disposed thinly, and the points of the shoots, instead of
being closely tied-in, are allowed to grow up to the glass. If the
drainage be defective it will be necessary to lift the trees as soon as the
leaves commence falling, and replant in fresh soil. Place 9 to 12 inches
of rough rubble for drainage, and on this about 3 inches thickness of old
mortar rubbish freed from pieces of wood. This will keep the drainage
clear indefinitely, and the roots will find the lime that is required. Good
turfy calcareous loam, rather strong than light, will grow excellent
Figs. If deficient in lime add a sixth of old mortar rubbish to the
loam, and in replanting ram the compost, thoroughly incorporated, well
about the roots, for short-jointed wood cannot so well be secured by any
other means than a solidified compost. The border must be 24 inches
deep. Should the drainage be good it will only be necessary to confine
the roots to the narrow border, removing some of the old soil from
amongst the roots, and supply fresh compost.

melons In Houses. — Maintain a night temperature of 65° to 70°,
and 75° artificially by day. As the weather is exceptionally favourable
there will be little need for fire heat, and the supplies of water will
require to be liberal. As the days shorten lessened supplies will be
needed, yet give enough water to keep the soil in a moist state whilst
the fruit is swelling, but after it is full sized or ceases swelling afford
no more than to prevent the foliage flagging. Keep the laterals well
stopped to one joint or leaf, and rub off all superfluous shoots as they
show, allowing nothing to interfere with the principal leaves, or to

August 24, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

183

retard the swelling of the fruit. Plants with fruit advanced for ripen¬
ing should have an abundance of air, with, if practicable, an increase of
temperature, avoiding a close moist atmosphere, and keep rather dry at
the roots.

Latest Plants. — Those planted in houses will require every encourage¬
ment, maintaining a moist atmosphere and a temperature of 70° to 75°
by artificial means, falling 5° on cold nights, and keeping the bottom
heat steady at 80° to 85°. The leader must not be pinched until it
reaches the trellis, when it may have its point taken out if more than
one leader is wanted. Keep a sharp look out for canker at the collar and
upon the stem, rubbing quicklime into the parts affected, striving to
maintain a clean growth.

Melons in Pits and Frames. — The latest plants in pits and frames
will have set or be setting their fruit. In order to secure a good set, the
growths require to be kept rather thin, the atmosphere warm and dry
by the aid of linings, so as to insure steady progress and the free
admission of air. Those in hot-water-heated pits will be the better of a
gentle warmth in the pipes on cold nights and dull wet days, a gentle
heat affording facilities for ventilation, which should be given, if only a
little, so as to insure evaporation, and the consequent elaboration and
assimilation of the sap, on which depends in a great measure the quality
of the fruits. The plants may be sprinkled, avoiding the collar or stem,
early in the afternoon, and closing before or by the temperature has
receded to 80° or 85°, and so as to raise it to 90° or 95°. Admit a little
air at 75°, or increase it from that with the advancing sun heat to
85° or 90°, at which keep through the day from sun heat. Plants in
frames should be attended to as required with linings of sweetened
fermenting material as the nights become cold, so as to prevent the
temperature falling below 65° in the morning, and if mats are placed
over the lights after the sun leaves the frames, and removed shortly after
the sun has risen, success will be ensured,

THE KITCHEN GAKDEN.

Cabbagres. — Hot weather and warm moist soil having caused the
seeds to germinate quickly and the plants to grow rapidly, there is every
likelihood of the earliest raised plants being much earlier than desirable.
Anyway they ought not to be wholly depended upon. If more seed is
sown at once thinly in drills previously moistened, there is every
probability of the plants obtained being quite large enough to put out
this autumn. Even if they are not they may yet prove very handy next
spring either for forming successional beds or for filling blanks caused
by many of the too early raised plants running to seed prematurely.
Coleworts have also grown very rapidly, and no time should be lost in
planting these extensively. They could he planted in succession to
Peas, Beans, and autumn Onions without any preparation of the ground
other than surface hoeing and removal of weeds. Should the weather
be hot and dry this ought not to hinder planting, as rather than spoil
the plants in the seed beds they ought to be well soaked with water
prior to drawing, and be replanted in drills, also watered. A foot apart
each way is enough space for small quick hearting Cabbages and Cole-
worts.

Onions. — In some gardens there are particularly good beds of Onions
to be seen and in others very poor ones indeed. Where the seed was
sown early and came up well the bulbs are all of good size and well
matured, thick or “ bull ” necks being scarce. There is scarcely any
necessity to twist down the tops in order to hasten maturation of the
bulbous roots, and the latter will be fit for drawing and storing very
much earlier than usual. Directly they come away readily from the
soil is the time for removing them, and if they are further harvested on
dry boards or wattled hurdles in the open, or if the weather is wet, an
empty vinery or other dry airy place should be utilised. Onions after
they are thus well prepared should be stored in a cool airy shed. Where
the seed germinated irregularly, some not starting till several weeks
later than the rest, the crops will be difficult to deal with. The late
plants are bulbing badly and will not mature properly. It will be quite
useless to draw these with a view to storing them, and the better plan
will be to leave them where they now are, drawing them as they are
wanted for use. Those that have made fairly good progress should have
their necks or tops twisted down to hasten maturation, while all that
are already ripening ought to be taken the greatest care of, being
treated as already advised in the case of early beds, as it is these that will
keep the longest.

Sowing- Onion Seed. — It is not yet too late to sow seed of Tripoli
and White Spanish Onions to stand through the winter. Such are not
absolutely indispensable, but are recommended if large heavy roots are
desired early next summer, and ought certainly to be grown extensively
where the summer crops are partial failures this season. The Queen,
Early White Naples, and other early maturing varieties may well be sown
with Giant Madeira, Giant White Tripoli, Eoccas, and other large
bulbing sorts, the drills being drawn 12 inches apart, and moistened
prior to sowing the seed. The White Spanish types are quite as hardy
as the Tripolis, but the bulbs obtained from plants raised very early in
the year under glass are invariably of better form than those formed by
autumn-raised plants, also keeping better.

Winter Spinach. — Judging from the progress made by a number
of late planted winter green vege4ables. Spinach will grow rather rapidly,
and should the hot weather last through August the earliest plants
of the latter will very probably run to seed prematurely. It is advisable,
therefore, to sow another good breadth of ground at once. An open,
rather high, or well drained and fairly rich piece of ground should be
selected, and the seed be sown in shallow drills drawn not less than
12 inches asunder and well moistened.

liettuces. — Where Lettuce can be obtained good early in the season
is the best site for growing late autumn Lettuce. The Cos varieties
sown late may fail to heart properly, and the preference ought there¬
fore to be given to Early Paris Market, Golden Queen, Commodore Nutt,
and All the Year Round Cabbage Lettuces. Draw drills 10 inches apart,
give a gentle watering, and sow the seed rather thinly. During showery
weather the thinnings drawn from rows of Cos as well as Cabbage
varieties may well be dibbled out on warm borders, and should the
weather keep fairly mild during September some useful Lettuces may
be had for storing in frames or protecting with boards and frame lights.

Tomatoes In the Open. — This promises to be a remarkably good
season for Tomatoes grown against garden walls and fences, as well as
those in the open. Already a considerable weight of fruit has been cut,
and there are large numbers of ripening and green fruit on the plants.
All leading growths ought ere this to have been topped, while super¬
fluous side shoots should be kept constantly cut away. Leaves are very
strong and healthy, no disease being apparent. In order to favour the
development of the later fruit, and to hasten ripening generally, the
leaves should he freely reduced in size, in many instances not more than
one-third of the leaf being left. As yet no disease has been observed,
but it may become troublesome directly there is a change to dull
showery weather. The best preventive is keeping the leaves dry. In
many instances spare garden lights might with advantage be fixed over
the plants against walls, these efftctually warding off rains and heavy
dews.

Tomatoes under Glass. — These also have cropped admirably, the
plants where they have not been stopped continuing to set great clusters
of fruit. Where they have grown rather vigorously, and perhaps failed
to fruit well in consequence, the plan of freely shortening back the
leaves would have checked this over-luxuriance, and have promoted a
more productive habit of growth. Many of the older leaves will now be
quite yellow, and should be cut off. If disease spots show on the leaves,
the worst form known as Cladisporium being denoted by yellow spots
near the size of a threepenny piece, and a mildew-like patch under¬
neath, can only be safely checked by means of a considerable increase of
fire heat, accompanied by a good circulation of dry air. Raising the
temperature of the house or houses to about 115° during the hottest part
of three or four days in suceession kills much of the fungus, as is both a
safe and good remedy. Old plants in boxes or narrow ridges of soil can
be kept in a growing productive state till next summer if need be. All
that is necessary is to reserve and lay in side shoots thinly all over the
roof, these soon commencing to hear fruit. In order to infuse a little
new life into these old plants give a soaking of liquid manure, a short
time after removing a little of the surface soil, and top-dressing with
a mixture of turfy loam and short manure, a sprinkling of bone meal
improving the compost. Young plants, especially when the body of the
house is to be utilised, are the most likely to produce heavy crops of
fruit, and these may well be placed singly in 12-inch pots at once.
While the weather remains hot and dry these young plants may safely
be left in the open, but directly there is a likelihood of a change to
colder, damp weather they ought to be housed, or otherwise they may
become affected by the Potato disease.

; ■ . 1 ^ . ■ , ~ . ■■ — , — ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ — ! . ■ ^ T ■ 1 t

Im bee-keeper.4

APIARIAN NOTES.

At the Heather.

After a week’s improved weather, of which the bees did
not fail to take advantage, a change for the worse came on the
19th inst. High winds prevailed, accompanied by a heavy fall of
rain, putting a stop to honey gathering. As the Heather is not
yet past, however, the dry season having favoured it greatly both
in the extent of growth and profuseness of bloom, in a few more
fine days there will be some unusually weighty hives.

Crossed and pure Punics have given every satisfaction, enabling
me to disprove every adverse criticism about these bees in Britain
and America. One prime swarm two months hived cannot have
risen less than 70 lbs., but accurate weights will be given in due
course. My time has been fully occupied since I removed the bees
here, so persistent in swarming have they been, and are not past
yet. If the Punics are the best in the aggregate my two best hives
are composed of second cross Syrians unswarmed, and a second
cross Carniolan, an old swarmed stock.

Our local bee and honey shows appear to have been a success,
but I have been unable to attend any. What I have learned and
fully proved at the moors this year will by-and by be embodied
in practical articles for beginners, which I trust will be of perma¬
nent benefit to them.

Can Bees Count?

My bees stand at the foot of one glen and on the point of
intersection to the main one that leads to many others, and behind
a stone dyke which runs east and west, the hives facing north. A
hive I had forwarded to me was placed at the west end of three

184

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 24, 1893.

detached hives, and it is bad policy to crowd the hives. The empty
hive was placed 6 feet from the western one, the bees and drones
of which alike immediately entered, while some of the bees from
the next hive entered the westmost one. I then moved it to
20 feet distant, and this time with the entrance quarter round, and
still some bees and drones flew towards it. The lesson is the same
as that I have »o often taught. Never alter the appearance or
aspect of hives after September.

Do Bees Fly in a Straight Line ?

It is generally believed that bees when returning to their hives
fly in a direct line, but this is not verified here. The bee stands
were at the foot of a glen that separates two hills. In order to
reach another glen situated at a right angle on the hill at a con¬
siderable elevation rather less than a quarter of a mile distant,
where the Heather is extra fine, and where gold was at one time
found and was sometimes wrought for, in a straight line the
bees would have come down the hill at an angle, but instead
they flew right down the second named glen until they reached
the bottom, then turned to the east at a right angle again, flew
down the main glen, and past their hives from 150 to 200 yards
where the valley and dyke nearly intersect, then over the dyke,
reaching their hives on the lee side of it, flying at least a mile
further when windy than when calm. — A Lanarkshire Bee¬
keeper.

•**A11 correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor ” or to “ The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Oorraspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Grapes SHanking' (i?. C. jV.'). — Your letter arrived as we were
jrtDaring for press. The matter shall receive attention next week.

Plums under Glass (i?. II.'). — For training up the rafters of a
house with a south-west aspect Denniston’s Superb, McLaughlin’s,
Brahy’s Green Gage, and Transparent Gage are excellent. Other four,
not Gages, are Jefferson, Washington, Kirke’s, and Coe’s Golden Drop.

Peaches for hSarket (>?. S.). — We suspect our correspondent will
not recommend any particular form of tree as the best under all circum¬
stances. His experience is much too great for that, but he may be
expected to refer both to trees grown as pyramids in pots and to trees
planted out and trained to trellises.

Potting Tuberoses {Reader). — Tuberoses should be potted so
that the tops of the tubers are about half an inch above the soil. The
suckers ought to be removed. There is no advantage in keeping the
tubers for a second year, as they seldom flower satisfactorily. The
three shoots round the crown bud of the Chrysanthemum should be
removed.

Anemone polyanthes (Z. B. E.). — This fine Anemone grows
about a foot to 18 inches in height, with a wealth of fine ornamental
foliage. The flowers are produced in bunches of from six to eighteen,
umbel fashion, on longish scapes. The blooms are rarely less than
an inch in diameter, pure white, firm textured, and lasting a con¬
siderable time in a cut state. It loves shade,- plenty of moisture in
rather a heavy but rich soil. The leaves are deciduous ; the crown,
though exposed, requiring no protection, as it is found at altitudes of
from 10,000 to 12,000 feet above sea level from Kashmir to Sikkim,
flowering during the early summer.

Xattayrns sativus {Amateur). — You are right. The Blue Pea
(Lathyrus sativus) is one of the prettiest and most distinct of all the
annual Peas of ornamental character. It is an old plant in gardens, and
yet many persons have never seen it, although it is universally admired by
all who chance to see it covered with its clear blue blossoms. Its culture
is of the easiest. Seeds sown in drills or clumps in March produce plants
which flower in July, and continue in bloom until late in the autumn. All
the atteiition required after sowing is to stake each clump with a few
bushy twigs abcut 2 feet in height. The 3 to 4-seeded pods are curiously

winged along the back. This species has long been grown in South Europe
as a forage plant, but its beauty ought to guarantee it a welcome in all
good flower gardens.

XLeeplng Xate Grapes {H. P.). — Late Grapes, to keep well,
should be thoroughly ripe by the middle of September, which can only
be effected by assisting the Vines in spring and early summer with
gentle fire heat, so as to have them sufficiently early for ripening the
fruit by the time indicated. The Grapes should be allowed to hang on
the Vines until the leaves have fallen, when they ought to be cut with a
sufficient length of wood below the bunches to allow of that part being
placed in bottles containing water, and all the wood above the bunches
should be retained, at least it is best so to do, as cuts increase the evapora¬
tion. The bottles should be about three-parts filled with clear rain water,
and a piece of charcoal placed in each . The bottles must be placed on a
rack, so that they slope to an angle of about 45°, so that the bunches
will depend clear of the bottles. The latter will need replenishing as
the water wastes, and the Grapes should be examined occasionally for
decayed berries, which should be removed as they appear. The most
suitable place for keeping the Grapes, failing a Grape-room, is a rather
dry room, which can be kept at a temperature of about 45°, or ranging
between 50° as a maximum and 40° minimum.

Tomatoes Irregular in Size {S. S.). — When the plants are
vigorous and the leaves and trusses ffirge, the fruits are generally
uneven in size. The first setting on the trusses are usually the largest,
and the next medium-sized, whilst the latest are generally small. The
crop is, therefore, easily assorted into three grades. The first, consisting
of large fruits, and the last of small, say the size of a Green Gage Plum,
are less profitable than the medium-sized fruits, which generally realise
good prices. To secure this, judicious thinning is necessary, and if
practised early does not impair the total weight of the crop, for by
removing the ill-shapen and the latest set fruit on the respective trusses
those left swell to an even size. This requires judgment so as to get a
full weight of fruit of even sample and have it come in succession-
ally, but the main point is not to overcrop. The hot dry weather has
been against the swelling of Tomatoes, and the fruits have ripened in
some cases prematurely through the sun being unusually powerful and
the atmosphere not having been kept proportionately moist. A slight
shade would, no doubt, have improved matters by lessening evaporation
and securing the better swelling of the fruit. As the growth is free
enough there cannot be anything materially amiss with the soil, but the
chief essential to the .swelling of the fruit is nitrogen, which is not over¬
abundant in artificial manures, as it is the most costly substance. In a
season like the present solid manure is decidedly advantageous on
account of the humus and resultant nitric acid, but it is easy to supply
nitrogen if the swelling of the fruit is not free enough by dressings of
nitrate of soda, a small handful in the powdered state being applied to
a space of 8 square yards, or J oz. per square yard, it being mixed for
facility of application with an equal quantity of dry earth. This
supplied according to the needs of the plants and the condition of the
soil and weather will be amply repaid.

Sagro Palms (A New Reader). — l’'ou desire to know something
about sago, and from whence it is obtained. Sago is obtained from
various species of Indian Palms. In the Indian Archipelago it is
procured from Sagus Rumphi, Sagus laevis, and Sagus genuina ; on the
Coromandel coast from Phoenix farinifera ; in Ceylon from Corypha
umbraculifera ; and in Assam from Caryota urens. These trees are cut
down, and from the pith filling their stems the sago is extracted. The
pith is thoroughly washed, and from the washing, when allowed to rest,
the fecula or starch subsides ; this is the sago flour of commerce, of
which large quantities are used in the manufacture of calico. When
used as food it is granulated, and known as pearl sago. Tapioca is
really sago in lumps, and was so called merely because the French, who
introduced it from India, named it Sagou-tapioka. About eight
thousand tons of sago are annually imported. Sagus Rumphi is a
small tree, comparatively speaking, not above 30 feet high. It is a
native of the Indian Archipelago, particularly of Malacca, Borneo,
Sumatra, Celebes, and the Moluccas. Before the tree has arrived at
maturity the stem consists of a mere shell, about 2 inches thick, with a
great mass of spongy pith, becoming gradually absorbed, and ultimately
the stem remains hollow. At the time when the pith is fully developed,
and before it has begun to diminish, which is indicated by the superior
leaves being covered with a sort of farina or white dust, the tree is
felled, and the trunk cut into lengths of 6 or 7 feet long, which are
split to admit of the pith being more easily removed. The pith is in
the state of a coarse powder, and is mixed with water in a trough having
a sieve at one end ; the water, loaded with farina, passes through the
sieve, and is received in convenient vessels, where it is allowed to stand
till the insoluble matter has subsided. The water is then strained off,
and the farina which is left may be dried into a kind of meal, or moulded
into whatever shape may be desired. Sago, as it comes to this country,
is prepared by forming the meal into a paste with water, and rubbing it
into grains ; it is produced in the greatest abundance in the Moluccas,
but of the finest quality on the eastern coast of Sumatra. The Chinese
of Malacca refine it, so as to give it a fine pearly lustre, and large
quantities are also prepared at Singapore. It is said that a single tree
will yield from 500 to 600 lbs. of sago. Sago forms the principal food
of the natives of the Moluccas. A decoction of sago fermented yields
alcohol by distillation, and by ascescence it forms vinegar. The fruit
of this Palm is the size of a hen’s egg. The base of the leafstalks is
covered with long fibrous filaments, that serve to make cordage and
sacking.

August 24, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

185

Wames of Fruits. — Notice. — Special attention is directed to the
toHowing decision, the object of which is to discourage the growth of
inferior and promote the culture of superior varieties. In consequence
of the large numher of loorthless Apples and Pears sent to this office to
be named, it has been decided to name only specimens and varieties of
approved merit, and to reject the inferior, which are not worth sending
or growing. The names and addresses of senders of fruit to be named
must in all cases be enclosed with the specimens, whether letters
referring to the fruit are sent by post or not. The names are not
necessarily required for publication, initials sufficing for that. Only six
specimens can be named at once, and any beyond that number cannot
be preserved. (^Wm, Huxley). — Apple Peasegood’s Nonesuch. (^Evaiis,
//a«socA’.?). — Duchess of Oldenburg. (^F.P.D ). — 1, Red Astrachan ; 2,
Ring of Pippins; 3, Court Pendh Plat ; 4, London Pippin. (R.B.). — 1,
Brown Turkey; 2, Brunswick.

N'ames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
S » — Specimen insufficient. (A. J/.). — Lilium lancifolium.

(if. P.), — Adiantum cuneatum.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

J. Carter &; Co., High Holborn, London. — Bulb Catalogue.

Bidij ^ Sons, Lowfield Nurseries, Crawley. — Spring Floivering

Dobie & Mason, Oak Street, Manchester. — Hyacinths, Tulips,

Crocuses, y v .

Fisher, Son, & Sibray, Handsworth Nurseries, Sheffield. — Bulbs and
Floicer Boots.

J. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, S.E. — Butch,‘French, and other Bulboics
Boots. >. >

Little & Ballantyne, Carlisle. — Bulb Catalogue.

\iImorin, Andrieux & Co., Paris. — Bulbous Booted and other
I lowers.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET. — August 23rd.

Large supplies, readily changing hands at low rates.

FRUIT,

Apples, per bushel . . . .

„ Tasmanian, per case
„ Nova Scotia, brl.
Cherries, half sieve . , . ,

Cobs . .

Filberts, per 100 lbs. i I ;
Gooseberries, half sieve . .

s. d,

Asparagus, per bundle . . 0 0
Beaus, Kidney, per lb. ..03

Beet, Red, dozen . I o

Carrots, bunch . 0 4

Cauliflowers, dozen . , . , 2 0

Celery, bundle . 1 0

Coleworts, dozen bunches 2 0
Cucumbers, dozen . . . . 1 6

Endive, dozen . 1 3

Herbs, bunch . . . . , , o 3

Leeks, bunch . 0 2

Lettuce, dozen . o 9

Mushrooms, punnet .. .. 0 9

d.

8.

d.

d.

9.

d.

0 to 6

0

Grapes per Ib. . . . .

9

to 2

0

0

0

0

Lemons, case . . . .

.. 10

0

15

0

0

0

0

Oranges, per 100

.. 0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Peaches, per doz.

.. 1

6

8

fl

0

0

0

Plums, per half sieve

.. 1

6

2

6

0

0

0

St. Michael Pines, each

.. 2

0

5

0

0

0

0

Strawberries, per lb. . .

.. 0

0

0

0

VEGETABLES.

s. d.

to 0
0
0
0

3
1

4
3

0
4
0
6
0
3
0
0

1 6
0 0
0 0
1 0
1 0

s. d.

Mustard and Cress, punnet 0 2 to 0

Onions, bunch . 0 3 0

Parsley, dozen bunches ,.20 3

Parsnips, dozen . 10 0

Potatoes, per cwt . 2 0 4

Salsafy, bundle . 10 1

Scorzouera, bundle .... 1 6 0

Seakale, per basket , . .. 0 0 0 0

Shallots, per lb . 0 3 0 0

Spinach, bushel . 8 0 0 0

Tomatoes, per lb . 0 3 0 4

Turnips, bunch . 0 4 0 6

s. d
0
6
0
0
6
e
0

AVERAGE WHOLESALE PRICES.— CUT FLOWERS.
Orchid Blooms in variety.

8.

d.

S.

d

8.

d.

S.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms ..

2

0 to

4

0

Marguerites, 12 bunches . .

2

0

to 4

0

Asters (French), per bunch

0

9

1

3

Mignonette, 12 bunches . ,

2

0

4

0

„ (English) doz. bches.

3

0

5

0

Myosotis, dozen bunches . .

1

6

3

0

Bouvardias, bunch .. ..

0

6

1

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

0

12

6

Carnations, 12 blooms

0

6

2

0

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

9

0

Carnations, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

Chrysanthemums, dozen

bunches .

3

0

G

0

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Primula (double) 12 sprays

0

6

1

0

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis.

1

0

2

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

6

0

Cornflower, dozen bunches.

1

0

2

0

Roses (indoor), dozen

0

6

1

6

Eucharis, dozen .

1

6

4

0

„ Red, doz. bunches . .

4

0

6

0

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

0

Lilium lancifolium, dozen

„ YeUow, dozen .. ..

2

0

4

0

blooms .

1

6

3

0

Stocks, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

Lilium longiflorum 12

Sweet Peas, doz. bunches..

2

0

4

0

blooms .

2

0

4

0

Sweet Sultan, per dozen

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

bunches .

O

O

0

4

0

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Tuberoses, 12 blooms . . . .

0

4

0

6

PLANTS IN POTS.

8.

d.

8.

d.

8.

d.

8.

d.

Arbor Vitae (golden) dozen

6

0 to 12

0

Hydrangea, per dozen

12

Oto 24

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Ivy Geraniums .

4

0

6

0

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

Lilium lancifolium per doz.

12

0

18

0

Balsams, per dozen , . . .

3

0

6

0

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen 12

0

24

0

Campanula, per dozen

9

0

18

0

Lobelia, per doz .

3

0

6

0

Dracaena terminalis, per

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

3

0

4

0

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . .

6

0

12

0

Dracaena viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Mignonette, per doz .

4

0

6

0

Euony m us , var., dozen . .

6

0

18

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24

0

Palms, in var., each . . . .

1

0

15

0

Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

4

0

18

0

„ (specimens) .. ..

21

0

63

0

Perns (small'i pr r hundred

4

0

6

0

Pelargoniums, per dozen,.

6

0

12

0

Ficus elastica, each .. ..

1

6

7

6

„ scarlet, per dozen . ,

3

0

6

0

Foliage plants, var., each . .

2

0

10

0

Petunia, per dozen . . . .

6

0

9

0

Fuchsia, per dozen . . . .

5

0

9

0 1

Rhodanthe, per dozen

4

0

6

0

FODDER FOR WINTER— ENSILAGE.

Tropical heat, the thermometer at nearly 90° in the shade,
with nine hours of bright sunshine day after day at mid-August,
is certainly brilliant harvest weather, and Wheat samples will
be so high in quality as to compare favourably with imported
corn. But this extreme heat, this parching weather, is fatal
to the hopes of those farmers who put off mowing what little
grass they had till corn harvest was well advanced, in the vain
expectation that enough rain would fall after all to induce some
really useful additional growth of herbage. It is true enough
that rain has fallen so freely in many districts to thoroughly
moisten the soil to a considerable depth, and wherever this has
happened pastures are clothed with rich luxuriant herbage, but
there are others where the pasture has never recovered from
the effects of the drought, and there the outlook is indeed
gloomy. Useless for their assistance now is it to dwell upon
the folly of laying down the whole of the land to permanent
pastu^'e — of starving the land when it is so laid down : we cannot
help them. It is to those who were wise enough to sow Rye,
Oa^s, Italian Rye Grass, Tai’es, and Peas or Beans as catch
crops, that we turn to urge them to do their utmost to preserve
and store as much of such fodder as they can for use next
winter and spring.

In the prevalent hot weather, any of it that is sufficiently
forward in growth can easily be made into hay, but most of it
will not be ready for mowing till unsettled weather and
shortening days render haymaking much too speculative to be
safe. Recourse must then be had to ensilage, as a simple, sure,
and efficient means of preserving fodder in a wholesome
nutritious condition. Prejudice and ignorance may try to
oppose it, but in such a crisis no quarter must be given to any
nonsense of the kind. There has been too much forbearance
shown in this matter, and we believe that among the lessons of
adversity taught by this trying year, the real value and use of
silage will take a prominent place.

No longer is it necessary to build costly silos as receptacles
for chaffed fodder — that is one of the things we have had to
unlearn. Nor do we require any of the costly patent pressing
apparatus which keen implement makers speedily placed on
market in response to an apparent want. Experience has shown
that green forage mown and placed in a sufficiently compact
heap in layers of a yard thick, with an interval of three or four
days between the stacking of each layer, will afford an invalu¬
able store of nutritious food for horses, store cattle, cows, sheep,
and lambs. To go fully into detail, let us explain what is
considered as the best way of making a compressed silage heap
at the present time. It requires some practice to enable one to
decide beforehand upon the size of the heap. The fact of a
cubic foot of a well-made silage heap weighing half a hundred¬
weight shows how closely it can be pressed together. Bearing
this in mind, with a calculation as to the weight of crop per
acre, should enable one to decide upon the size of a heap which
when finished is to be 6 feet in height, on a clear level place,
easy of access, and near the yards. Mark, for example, a space
18 feet wide by 36 feet long. Upon this cart and shoot the
forage as it is mown, spreading it out regularly, keeping the
sides upright, but making a slope with the forage at each end
for the loads to be drawn upon the heap, and the empty carts to
pass off at the other end, just as is done in making a Suffolk
manure heap. This carting upon the heap helps to make it

186

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 24, 1893.

compact ; a torse drawing an iron roller is also kept going over
it till a 6rm layer 3 feet high is made. This layer is then left
to settle and heat for three or four days, a thorough rolling
with the horse and iron roller being given daily. Then another
layer is put on and treated in precisely the same way, the heap
being thus gradually built to a height of 6 feet. The sloping
ends are then cut off with a hay knife, thrown upon the top of
the heap, spread out and well trampled down, so that ends and
sides are all left perpendicular. The top is then weighted with
timber — rough logs answer perfectly well — topped up with
rough litter or straw and thatched. Of course there is some
heating, bat the gradual construction and pressure prevents
excessive or hurtful heating, and the silage becomes cool in
about three months. At half a hundi'edweight to the cubic foot,
the contents of such a heap work out at about 97 tons, and the
fortunate owner of it might well be an object of envy to his
brother farmers in the coming wintei*. The difficulty — the only
difficulty, is to get enough green forage, not necessarily of the
same sort. It may be a mixture of green Oats, Rye, Rye Grass,
Lucerne, second cut of Clover, Tares, or mixed seeds, it matters
not which ; all or any of them treated in the simple manner
described will make an aromatic heap of fodder that will prove
invaluable for stock feeding from Christmas till May day, or
longer if necessary.

We had written the above before seeing the hints on special
ensilage which the Board of Agriculture has sent out, and
which appeared in the last number of the Journal. They are
certainly well timed, and will do good if they induce farmers to
save every scrap of spai*e herbage, and store it for winter by
ensilage. Our details of the process were advisedly confined to
the making of clamped silage, because of its facility, economy,
and certainty. After the clamp is made the two important
points are pressure and tha'ching to throw off rain. By all
means use dry earth if it can be had ; but bearing in mind how
doubtful that is in autumn, we think it better to recommend
the use of logs of timber. Anything heavy will do —we used
slag from an old blast furnace for our first silo — so as to keep
a steady pressure upon the heap, then top up to a sufficiently
acute angle and cover with thatch of straw, reeds, rushes,
heather ; with corrugated iron sheets, weather boards, felt, or
anything to throw off rain and keep the silage dry. Soil alone
will not do this, and we certainly think the Board of Agri¬
culture’s advice to use it for a covering as risky. We repeat,
use plenty of pressure, and keep out the rain, if you would
preserve silage in good condition.

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

At the Royal Show at Chester an enterprising seedsman had a bundle
of drought-resisting fodder plants with very long roots on his stand. He
was wise, because particular attention to such crops has been forced
upon the grazier this summer. We hope it may lead to the more
general culture of Lucerne, which, good as it always is, hag stood out
conspicuous for its superiority over all other forage plants without any
special culture beyond that followed in ordinary practice. With its
roots deep down in the soil it has passed through the drought unscathed,
unaffected by it in the slightest degree. The three growths of it have
given an aggregate in height of full 10 feet. What would graziers in
Leicestershire with their hay crop barely 10 inches high, or Kent and
Sussex farmers with no hay at all, say to this 1 Often when urging the
value of this crop and its easy culture upon tenant farmers have we
been told that soil must have lime in it for Lucerne. Well, we would
certainly give land a heavy dressing of lime rather than go without
Lucerne, and we once more earnestly recommend it for general
cultivation.

Second cropg of Clover are much heavier than was the first crop.
They are being mown and made into hay with great facility now, the
demand for hay of any kind being so general that very little Clover will
be left for seed. Harvest work, and the breaking up of stubbles, has
been going on briskly. Sheep-folding on a capital crop of White Mustard
helps to ease the pastures. It makes a wholesome change for the flock,
and the land is enriched for a crop of Winter Oats.

We have had many complaints of fly striking among the sheep of
our correspondents, a special grievance being made of flies attacking
sheep so soon after they have been dipped. It should be clearly under¬
stood tha,t while dipping may give sheep immunity from fly attacks for
a short time, its special work is to destroy at the time of dipping all

parasitical insects in the wool or upon the skin, especially those terrible
blood-suckers, the ticks, which irritate the sheep to such a degree that
they are practically never at rest, and cannot thrive. Dipping soon
after shearing, and again in September, is usually all that is required ;
both are indispensable, and are usually sufficient. Fly attacks are to be
expected daily and hourly in such dry hot weather as we are now
having, but there can be no material harm from them if the flock has
proper attention. That is the point — pains and care, very little science
is wanted. We recently went through the flock of a veterinary surgeon,
and found several bad cases of foot-rot ; evidently the man of science
was not a careful, hardly a humane man.

OUR LETTER BOX.

Thistles (A.). — To destroy Thistles they must be pulled up by the
roots. On arable land this is done by repeated hoeing among root crops,
or by thorough autumn tillage, ploughing, harrowing, deep stirring with
cultivator or horse hoe, so as not only to sever the roots well beneath the
surface, but to bring the loosened plants upon the surface, to be killed
by exposure, or, better still, collected and burnt. On pasture, the
practice of mowing Thistles once or twice during summer may weaken
growth, but we always regard it as a waste of time and money. Root
them up once for all, and there is an end of them ; we have had them
pulled up by hands protected with stout leathern gloves when the land
is softened by heavy rain, also dug up with dock spuds. The plan may
be tedious, but it is certainly thorough. Never suffer a Thistle to run
to seed ; turn every one to the rooting up of them at odd times, and by
the exercise of a little perseverance you will get rid of them. Show this
to your neighbour, and at any rate try and induce him to prevent Thistle
seeding. We have known an entire parish to become infested with this
pest by seed blown about it from the land of a slovenly farmer. That
farm eventually came into our hands. By steady persistence we got rid
of the Thistles. If your land is as badly infested by them as that was,
you will have a very clear idea of the true meaning of perseverance
before you have done with them.

Poultry in France. — The income derived by French people who
rear fowls, says an industrious statistician, according to octroi and
market returns, is 337,100,000 francs, of which 153,500,000 francs
represent the value of the flesh, and 183,600,000 francS that of the
eggs. The quantity sold in poultry yards is immense, as is also the
number used in the homes of those who rear fowls. These figures do
not find their way into statistics.

The Harvest in the Midlands. — Midland farmers, a daily
contemporary asserts, have had greater advantages for in-gathering
their crops this year than they have had for nearly a quarter of a
century. It is estimated that Wheat on the average will yield from
four to five, quarters per acre, which is above the usual produce, while
the quality is exceptionally good. Oats again are far above the
average, and are already so ripe that thrashing can begin as soon as the
crop is cut. It is complained that the straw is short; hut the farmers
have the compensating advantage that both quality and quantity are
fairly excellent. During the past few days considerable progress has
been made with the in-gathering, and the result so far has created
much satisfaction.

MBTBOROLOaiCAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamdex Square, Loxdox.

Lat, 51° 32' 40" N. ; Loag. 0° 8' 0" W. ; Altitude, HI feet.

Date.

9 A.M.

In THE Day.

Rain.

1893.

August.

1 Barometer

at 32°, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday . . 13

30-180

74-5

67-6

E.

65-4

78-5

59-3

99-1

55-1

—

Monday . . 14

30-232

71-3

61-2

Calm.

65-2

82-7

60-2

111-0

55-3

Tuesday . . 15

30-223

74-9

64-2

S.

65 6

87-8

58-8

119-8

54-3

_

Wednesday 16

30-137

75-2

62-7

S.W.

66-0

90-7

59-9

130-4

53-3

_

Thursday . . 17

30-088

76-3

65-9

s.w.

67-0

92-7

61-3

1.8-9

56-1

Friday . . 18

29-819

84-3

66-7

s.

67-9

93-6

64-1

131-9

56-8

_

Saturday.. 19

29-920

68-5

61-8

s.w.

68-8

79-5

63-8

123-2

60-3

—

30-086

75-0

64-3

66-6

86-5

61-1

120-6

55-9

—

REMARKS.

13th.— Bright sunshine early, but haze and cloud gradually accumulated, and only
occasional gleams of sun after 11 a.m.

14th. — Calm, hazy, and oppressive throughout.

15th. — Sunny and hot ; hazy, with a little cloud in morning, and solar halo about
11 A.M.

16th. — Hot; almost cloudless till 3 30 P.M.; solar halo about 4 P.M., cloudless again
by 5 p.M.

17th. — Sunny and hot throughout, a little hazy in the morning.

18th. — Almost cloudless, with very high temperature, but breezy and pleasant ; distant
lightning at night.

19th. — Cool and pleasant, with sunshine at times.

A very hot week ; probably the hottest recorded here since the observations
commenced in 1858. The 9 A.M. temperature on 18th (84'3°0 is without precedent in
the thirty-six years, and the 16th, 17th, and 18th are the only instance of three con¬
secutive days with max. above 90'^. The temperature of 93-6° on 18th has only once
been exceeded, namely on July 15th, 1881, when 94-6° was recorded.— d. J. SYMOXS.

August 31, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

187

OVER all the fruits that are grown in our island home the Apple
remains king in usefulness ; but it has to be said that the fruit,
broadly and generally speaking, is not yet represented in kingly
fashion. In too many instances it lacks dignity, and does not
command the respect to which the fruit when seen in its full
nobility of character is justly entitled. Apples were on the down
grade for many a year, but their course was checked by the efforts
of men who believed them worthy of a better fate than that to
which they were being driven by apathy, ignorance, and neglect.
The Apples of Britain, taking them in the bulk, a dozen years ago
were a disgrace to the nation and spurned by its inhabitants in
favour of the better, larger, brighter samples from other lands ;
yet the soil of those lands was no better than in our own, the
varieties no better, the enemies no fewer, the climate no more
favourable as a rule to the growth of Apples than that which
generally prevails in this country. Impediments have to be
encountered everywhere, and losses periodically sustained, but this
is the case with the production of all crops that are influenced by
the weather, as both farmers and gardeners know too well ; and
whatever the obstacles in growing fruit, those persons who adopt
the best methods are bound to have the greatest success, as in the
splendid Apples exhibited in the Agricultural Hall, Islington.

When the planting of Apple trees much more extensively than
formerly was being so strongly advocated during what may be
termed the fruit crusade, many persons feared that if the advice
were followed the country would soon be so full of fruit that the
crops would “fetch nothing.” Undoubtedly the effect of the agita¬
tion for growing more and especially better fruit in this country
resulted in the planting of millions of trees and bushes over thou¬
sands of acres of land. Great numbers of those trees are now in
bearing, and the fruit is leaving its impress on the markets.
Broadly speaking the result so far is to render the small scrubby
Apples from old or exhausted trees not worth sending to market,
while fine fruit from young trees finds a ready sale at prices, if not
high yet remunerative to the grower. As the supply of first-class
fruit increases in bulk prices would inevitably fall but for two
great counteracting influences — 1, the constant increase in the
number of consumers ; 2, the increased disposition of the public to
purchase fruit when it is of the best appearance, good in quality,
and obtainable at a moderate price. Inferior fruit is repellant to
thousands, and they will not have it at any price, but bright, good
sized, speckless, and tender-looking specimens are so tempting as to
become irresistible. Several instances could be cited of the use¬
lessness of third or fourth-rate Apples and of the value of first-class
produce to the grower, but one must suffice at present.

W. H. Myers, Esq., M.P., is a gentleman who takes great
interest in improving his estate, not because of the advantage of
this to himself alone, but because, while he may eventually gain, a
number of men are in the meantime benefited by the employment
afforded in establishing extensive plantations of Larch and other
trees. These plantations will be more profitable in the end than
the land surrounding under agricultural tillage ; but fruit trees
have also been planted at Swanmore by Mr. Myers’ gardener — not
many, only about 2000 — and though the oldest of these trees have
only been planted three years, some of them are already giving an
encouraging return. The fruit from these young trees as grown

No. 688. — VoL. XXVII., Third Series.

in good and well-prepared soil is, so to say, “ run after ” at 5a. a
bushel ; while the crops of smaller fruit from old and more or less
enfeebled orchard trees would be gladly disposed of for a fourth of
the price, yet more time is involved in gathering the latter than
the former.

This Swanmore'experiment in Apple culture is suggestive and
instructive. In the first place varieties were wisely chosen that
had been found to succeed the best in a small orchard planted
fifteen years ago. These were mainly Warner’s King, the tree
never failing to yield magnificent fruit, Ecklinville and Mere de
Manage as cooking Apples, with Worcester Pearmain, King of the
Pippins, and Cox’s Orange Pippin as table fruits. Several other
sorts including Blenheim Pippin did not succeed half so well in
the strong loam resting on chalk, and, therefore, were excluded
from the new plantation ; but other varieties of repute were
included. A grass field of 5 acres adjoining the garden was
devoted to this Apple growing experiment. The position is
elevated and open, and in those respects favourable to the
blossoms escaping destruction by spring frost in comparison with
those of trees in low, damp, and confined enclosures.

One portion of the field was planted with standard trees 30 feet
apart, and a bush tree between each two' standards in the lines,
also a row with the trees 15 feet asunder between the rows of
standards, thus in this portion the trees stand at the distance
last named. They are on grass, each planted in a prepared station,
4 feet wide and 2 feet deep. The soil is kept free from weeds and
loose on the surface, not by digging but with the hoe. The growth
has been so good and the root action so free that the ground has
been broken in circles a foot wide and 18 inches deep outside the
stations to permit of root extension in the upper layer of soil. The
trees were pruned after planting to obtain the requisite number of
branches, and have made admirable progress. Some that made
very free growth, suggestive of exuberance, were simply taken up
and replanted — an excellent plan for enhancing vigour and
inducing fruitfulness not sufficiently practised. When once bearing
commences the fruits will keep the growth in subjection. All the
lifted trees are replanted higher than before, and ic is found that
the higher the mounds are in reason the more satisfactory is the
growth, as combining adequate extension with firmness and
blossom-forming proclivity. Soma of the mounds are 18 inches
high, few less than a foot above the ground level. On trees that
are in bearing and mulched with manure the fruit is magnificent,
and fine enough to sell in any market where the trees are not
mulched, as is the case with the majority. This orchard on grass
will be profitable in another year or two, and numbers of the trees
have paid for themselves and something more already.

The other half of the field was wholly broken up and planted
similarly, but extra rows of maiden trees were planted between the
standards and two-year-old bushes, so that the whole stand 7^ feet
apart. This is the way to obtain the most money off the ground
by the sale of Apples at a small extra cost in planting the
maidens, though no doubt a still earlier gain would be had by
inter-planting with Gooseberries ; but this is an Apple experiment.
The standard trees are included in case at any future time, as they
advance in growth, the dwarfs can be gradually removed, and the
ground beneath the tall standards devoted to grazing, if it should
be required for that purpose, and it is proverbially difficult to
foresee what may be wanted eventually on a gentleman’s estate, as
the fancy of some owner may turn in the direction of live stock in
preference to fruit. For producing the greatest abundance of the
best Apples, cultivated fruit gardens is the system to adopt, and irt
suitable soil and positions, combined with good management, the
work may be expected to prove fairly remunerative even if the
prices for fruit fall lower than they are now, always provided the
produce is of high quality and of uniformly good throughout the
bulk. Second and third rate fruit carelessly marketed cannot be
expected to pay in the future. For the very best home-grown

No. 2344.— VOL. LXXXIX. OLD Series

188

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 31, 1893

Apples there always has been, and it is reasonable to suppose there
always will be a ready sale.

Returning to the varieties in Mr. Myers’ experiment the
standard trees consist of 100 Worcester Pearmain, forty-six
Ecklinville, thirty-six Cox’s Orange Pippin, and fifty Bramley’s
Seedling. The dwarfs comprise 250 Warner’s King, a variety
that would be increased in an extension of planting ; 220 Ecklin-
villes, too many, as the fruits are soft and liable to be specked ;
forty M^re de Menage, a satisfactory proportion ; twenty Worcester
Pearmain, not nearly sufficient, as the fruit sells so well ; forty
Irish Peach, not profitable, and would not be planted again for
market purposes ; 120 Lady Sudeley, as coming in just when
wanted, would be increased ; seventy-five Cox’s Orange Pippin, would
be considerably increased ; thirty King of the Pippins, sufficient,
crop good, and fruit fine, but not bright enough ; twenty-five
Lady Henniker, too many, tree too large, and a sparse bearer ;
550 Lord Grosvenor, one of the most profitable of all, and would
be largely increased ; 100 Bramley’s Seedling, growing and
bearing so well that it would be considerably increased both in the
form of standards and dwarfs ; 125 Lane’s Prince Albert, of
which many more would be planted ; 100 Stirling Castle, such an
early and bountiful bearer that it would be planted more
extensively.

In respect to the bearing of the young trees in the plantation,
Bramley’s Seedlings, as standards and dwarfs planted in 1890, are
carrying from twenty to twenty-five fruits 10 inches in circum¬
ference, and are not blown off the trees. A maiden planted last
autumn had three fruits 12 inches in diameter, heavier than itself,
pointed to as not a “ slow ” bearer. Warner’s King and Lord
Qrosvenor, bearing twenty-five fruits 13 inches in diameter*
35 bushels being sold from the latter at 5s. a bushel ; Stirling
Castle, overladen, fruits good, but unduly taxing the trees ; Lane’s
Prince] Albert, young trees, supporting twenty to thirty splendid
Apples, ^and making satisfactory growth ; Cox’s Orange Pippin
carrying fifty to sixty handsome fruits, several girthing 9 inches.

Of the varieties grown in less numbers, the Queen and Cox’s
Pomona were promising well, as were Bismarck, very fine
Wealthy, Wiltshire Defiance, and Sandringham, very large ; Queen
Caroline, beautiful ; Golden Spire, and Frogmore Prolific. Of
table sorts, Devonshire Quarrenden has paid well, and Mr. Moly-
neux wishes he had several hundred trees of Benoni and several
hundred bushels of Worcester Pearmain. He finds a great dearth
of table Apples between the first earlies — such as Red Astrachan,
Mr. Gladstone, and others — and the autumn bearers, hence the
special value of such as Lady Sudeley, Worcester Pearmain, and
Benoni, and of these he would plant largely, in the full assurance
of a ready sale. Upwards of 100 of the best varieties in cultiva¬
tion are on trial at Swanmore, including most of the new sorts,
the object being to ascertain by comparison those most likely to
give the best return if extensively planted for commercial
purposes. This well conducted experiment in Apple culture will
be of practical value to intending planters, and Mr. Myers and his
gardener are to be congratulated on the progress already made, as
well as on a promising future.

HARDY FLOWER NOTES.

Morina longifolia.

Thebe are few hardy flowers which attract more attention
than a good specimen of Morina longifolia when in full bloom.
The long, glossy, somewhat spiny leaves are very pretty, and the
handsome spike with its crowded whorls of white and crimson
flowers add to the appearance of the plant. It seems to be a
favourite wherever grown, and it is to be regretted that it does
not prove a true perennial on all soils. It is so easily raised
from seed, which it ripens abundantly, that it can be readily
replaced ; and it may be noted that young plants transplant much
more successfully than older ones, as the long tap roots are liable
to injury. One of the pleasing features of this plant is the variety
presented by the flowers in their various stages. The buds are

white, and when open the flowers are of a pretty pink, which again
passes ofE to a fine bright crimson. The flowers have rather long
tubes in proportion to their breadth, these being about 1 inch,
and the flower about three-quarters of an inch across. The blooms
are produced in whorls in the axils of the flowering stems, which
attain a height of 2 feet or more. The leaves are from 10 inches
to upwards of a foot in length, and are pinnatifid.

Morina longifolia will be found to thrive well in a rich but
somewhat light soil, and prefers a little shade. The customary
period for flowering here (Dumfries) is July, but occasionally a
plant will fail to bloom in the ordinary season, and throws up a
flower stem in late autumn. Even a plant which flowers in its
usual course will sometimes throw up late stems. A fine spike
on one of my plants was just beginning to open late last October,
when a severe night’s frost destroyed it. It is a native of Nepaul,
whence it was introduced by Wallich about 1839. Seeds may be
sown in pots or boxes as soon as ripe, and placed in a frame, or they
may be kept until spring, and sown in the open ground in
March or April. With good treatment plants should flower the
second season. Division of the plants is also practised, but this
should not be attempted unless they are a fair size.

The genus Morina was named in honour of Louis Morin, a
French botanist, who existed in the end of the seventeenth and
beginning of the eighteenth centuries. The fii'St species of the
genus which was introduced was M. persica, discovered by Tourne-
tort. Besides this, and the subject of this note, there are some
half a dozen other species, all being natives of Asia. Few of these
are in cultivation in this country. The Morinas belong to the
natural order Dipsacese, and a synonym of the genus is Asaphes.
An illustration of M. longifolia is given in the “ Botanical Maga¬
zine,” tab. 4092 ; in the “ Botanical Register,” vol. xxvi., plate 36 ;
and one may also be found in Maund’s “ Botanic Garden,” vol. v.,
plate 197. The latter only shows part of the spike, and conse¬
quently does not do full justice to the symmetry of the plant.
Morina longifolia is one of the flowers which can be recommended
with every confidence.

Coreopsis monstrosa. •

The specific name of monstrosa has occasionally been applied
in a most inappropriate manner to flowers, and it cannot, I think,
be denied that here we have a case in point. Judging from the
appearance of Coreopsis monstrosa from a garden or from a struc¬
tural point of view, there is nothing about the plant which would
give warrant for according it a specific name far from appropriate
to such a graceful flower, for this plant shares the grace of its
congeners, which, as a whcle, are exceedingly beautiful in habit.
It seems to be a plant of garden origin, and only a large-flowered
and extremely fine form of one of our most beautiful garden
flowers — C. lanceolata. The habit of the plant is more robust
than is the typical C. lanceolata, and it may be recommended
as a decided improvement upon the latter. I have seen this
plant in various gardens and soils, and taken as a whole C.
monstrosa will bear favourable comparison with the much-praised
C. grandiflora, its bright clear yellow flowers being of good colour
and form. There seems to be no special difficulty in its cultivation.

Morisia hypog^a.

Although I have recently written of this neat rockery plant,
some additional information as to its propagation may be of
interest, especially as I have failed to discover any reference to
this system of propagation as applied to the Morisia. This is by
means of root cuttings, a well known and useful method of
propagating many flowers. In lifting a plant of M. hypogsea for
the purpose of taking off cuttings and dividing the plant, an
examination of the character of the roots caused me to be of
opinion that it could be easily increased by means of cuttings
of short pieces of the root. Several of the roots were taken
off, cut into pieces about an inch in length, inserted in pots
of light sandy soil, and placed in a cool greenhouse. The upper
or thicker end of each root cutting was of course placed
uppermost and so placed that it was just under the slight
layer of sand with which the pot was surfaced. In about a
fortnight leaves began to appear from the apex, and the plants
produced in this way are nearly as large as those obtained by
ordinary cuttings of the stems inserted the same day. The cuttings
were taken off in the end of June.

CiMICIFUGA SERPENTARIA.

Whatever may be said for the literal accuracy of the name of
Serpent-like Bugwort, all who have seen this flower will, I feel
sure, agree in thinking it a most unpleasant one for such a pretty
occupant of our garden borders. I fear even the Rose if burdened
with the name of Bugwort would hardly “smell as sweet,” and one
is tempted to wish for a revision of some of the names which, like
the plants themselves, have come to us from the other side of the

August 31, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEIL

189

Atlantic. Until, however, some authority can give us a better
name and secure its general acceptance, we must, I suppose
veil it under the Greek name which, although of similar mean¬
ing, disguises to ordinary ears the unpleasant reference of which we
complain.

In Mr. Nicholson’s “Dictionary of Gardening” C. lerpentaria
is described as a synonym of C. racemosa ; but, while this may
be the case from a botanical point of view, for garden purposes
the plants sold as C. racemosa and C. serpentaria are very distinct
in the appearance of the inflorescence, the former having straight,
erect racemes of flowers, while the subject of this note has its
racemes twisted and abruptly bent in a curious manner, whence, I
suppose, the derivation of the distinctive or specific name of ser¬
pentaria. In general this form in flowers is not particularly
attractive, resembling as it does the effect at times produced by
blooms which have for some time been laid prostrate, and have
then been staked and tied to an erect position, thus frequently
giving the flower spikes a twisted appearance. In C. serpentaria,
however, this is not so, but the abrupt angles and contortion renders
the plant more interesting, and in no way detracts from its beauty.
I find, indeed, that this Cimicifuga is being more frequently sought
for, and much disappointment is felt when, as is not unfrequently
the case, the ordinary C. racemosa is supplied.

I have recently seen some fine specimens of C. serpentaria, and
in the garden at Cavens, Dumfries, N.B., several fine plants about
5 feet high had a good effect in a long border contrasted with
Aconitum bicolor. The Cimicifugas belong to the large family of
Ranunculace^, and are very beautiful in a border suited to the
growth of the taller herbaceous plants, where with a little shade
and a fair amount of moisture, they will soon form handsome
clumps. They are readily propagated by division, or by means of
seeds, sown as soon as ripe.

Early Flowering of Autumn Bulbs.

The warmth of the past season has ripened bulbs early, and the
rain which succeeded the great heat has pushed many into growth,
thus bringing several plants which generally flower late in autumn
into premature flower. Thus Leucoium autumnale came into flower
the first week in July, and Colchicums Bertoloni and C. latifolium
came into flower on July 28th and 29th respectively. One can
hardly say that their appearance was welcome at this early season,
when flowers were plentiful, and we looked forward to their succeed¬
ing other plants, and bridging over what is usually a comparatively
dull season. — S. Arnott.

Orchids at Chelsea.

There were not at the time of my visit to Mr. Bull's the other
day a great number of Orchids in bloom, as the season has cleared
them off much more rapidly than usual. However, what there
were assisted materially to brighten the structures devoted to their
culture, and particularly noticeable amongst those in flower were
Cypripedium oenanthum superbum, a very beautiful piece of
Angrajcum descendens, the blooms of which were diffusing a faint
but pleasing fragrance ; Habenaria militaris, little plants of which
were throwing up their brightly coloured blooms ; Oncidium
Kramerianum, Saccolabium Blumei longiracemosum in fine con¬
dition, and several richly coloured Lselias purpurata and elegans.
On many of the Orchid pots were to be seen pieces of Potatoes
placed as traps for woodlice.

L^lia monophylla.

We have no more charming little summer flowering Orchid
than this. There are about a dozen examples of it in flower in the
cool Orchid house at Kew, each bearing from six to a dozen flowers
of elegant butterfly form, and coloured vivid orange scarlet. I
have heard of a plant which bore three flowers on a scape, but all
of the plants at Kew have only a single flower on each scape.
The pseudo-bulbs are no thicker than a knitting-needle, 6 inches
long, each bearing a single narrow leaf 3 inches long. The scape
is slender, curved, 3 inches long, and the flower is between 1 and
2 inches in diameter.

The Kew examples have been in flower a fortnight, and the
flowers are, at the time of writing, still quite fresh. They are
grown in a cool house along with Masdevallias, and they get a fair
supply of water all the year round. This species was first intro¬

duced and flowered at Kew in 1882, plants having been found by
Mr. Morris in Jamaica on St. Andrew’s Mountain at an elevation
of about 5000 feet. Mr. Norman Cookson is trying to cross it
with other species, of Lselia. — W. Watson (in “Garden and
Forest ”).

Orchids in Northumberland.

Anyone visiting Morpeth, the former capital of Northumber¬
land, would scarcely at first sight be aware, or expect to find, so
large an area of glass houses devoted to plant and Orchid culture
as that possessed by Edward Hopper, Esq., of Riverside. The
collection of Orchids is one of the best in Northumberland. On a
recent visit I had pointed out to me Dendrobium giganteum with
four blooms, Oncidium papilio majus, 5 inches across, very fine ;
and Odontoglossum Uro-Skinneri, so very suitable for buttonholes.
Amongst other plants must be mentioned Clerodendron fragrans
for its pleasing perfume ; Hedychium album, a charming white
flower, and the curious Strelitzia Reginse with ten spikes.

Mr. Hopper is a great botanist, and possesses one of the finest
botanical libraries in the district, is a warm enthusiast, and always
glad to meet persons interested in gardening. He has now secured
the services of Mr. James Wood as head gardener, and the place
is a credit to the latter’s gardening skill, which is well known in
the north of England. — Bernard Cowan.

INSECTS OF THE FLOWER GARDEN.

{Continued from page 93.')

Since the mites are insects that are to be found almost every¬
where, indoors and out, we may be sure they have some repre¬
sentatives in every flower garden. Tropical countries can furnish
specimens belonging to this group which are as large as a pea, but
all our British species verify their name — they are but specks of
life, and many are so tiny that they can scarcely be seen without
a magnifying glass. Like the aphis and some other insects of
small size, their numbers enable them to produce results they could
not otherwise accomplish, and there are species that give us trouble,
even in the cultivation of flowers, a few being particularly notice¬
able . It is only of late that attention has been called to the economy
of these insects, and, in the case of some plants and trees, it is
likely to remain for the present a doubtful matter whether the
mites upon them are a cause of disease or its consequence. The
mite most familiar to us in houses and gardens is the annoying
red spider (so-called), and its useful relatives, if endued with
intelligence, might very well disown a species having habits so
unlike theirs. Juvenile mites are not much different in appear¬
ance from full-grown specimens, except that they possess but six
legs, eight being the complete number ; nobody has ascertained yet
how long their life lasts. All species have the abdomen neither
segmented nor stalked, but more or less rounded, and joined on to
a small thorax bearing the legs. It might be desirable in some
cases to destroy their eggs ; the minuteness of these is a difficulty,
however. Also it has been suggested that they are wafted by the
air from the place where they are laid to another spot, and certainly
their sudden appearance at times is mysterious, for the insects
themselves are not of migratory habit, or but rarely.

Of all the mites, the spinners come nearest to the spider proper,
since they are able to weave a web, having claws specially adapted
to this, and a spinning apparatus. The mouth has a barbed sucker,
and mandibles or jaws as well ; and some suppose that those of the
spinning mites which act as blood-suckers throw into the tiny
puncture they make some kind of poison. Specimens of both
groups, of the vegetable feeders and of those that are predacious,
are to be noticed in flower gardens. Those of the former are the
smaller, and of pale or dull colours, also semi-transparent ; those of
the latter are velvety and opaque, in colour some shade of red or
black. One of our worst enemies is the red spider, Tetranychus
telarius, a strict vegetarian, and which, though most troublesome in
houses, abounds upon some exotic plants in beds and borders. We
call it red, and many of these insects are of some shade of red, but
others occur that are green or brown, hence some have been thought
to be distinct species. An entomologist noticed upon the Hollyhock
red spiders of various colours, possibly of different ages ; and upon
the Rose, in some districts, some occur of pale green hue, and
almost transparent. Boisduval thinks that red spider rarely
appears on the Rose if the tree is healthy, and also with Camellias
and Dracaenas ; it is plants out of condition that the insect seems
to single out for attack. This insect is so notably a lover of
"Warmth that it has been observed, in some instances, to die off
plants that have been shifted from houses into the open air, being
unable to stand the change of temperature. But it may often be
found flourishing under the ordinary conditions of our climate, and
a dry spring and summer, such as we have had, must have favoured

190

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 31, 1893.

the increase of red spider out of doors, while many plants were less
able to resist its attacks. The injury done arises from the combined
results of biting and sucking, also the leaf-pores are choked by the
secretions of the insect. With the aid of a hand magnifier we can
perceive, upon the under side of leaves chiefly, the manner in which
red spiders group themselves, scores, or even hundreds feeding
together, the party including specimens of all sizes and ages ; but
the juveniles are, of course, very minute in their first stage, semi¬
transparent, and more sluggish than those that are nearly or quite
full grown. The eggs are large in proportion to the insect ; but it
is also the fact that individuals partly grown, and with their legs
tucked in, presumably in the act of changing their skins, have been
taken for eggs. It is not certain whether, in the open air, this
species passes the winter in the egg state. French entomologists
think adults hybernate under stones and in odd corners, to resume
activity in spring, depositing eggs then, which give birth to the new
brood. It would seem that the web is the united work of several
of the older individuals on a leaf, the minute claws and hairs of the
legs being employed. It is both a protection and a help to loco¬
motion, for the mite has some difficulty in crawling upon the
surface of smooth or slightly sticky leaves. When spraying and
syringing to destroy this insect, either with Gishurst compound,
sulphur and soap, or whatever other remedy may be tried, it is
necessary to remember that little good is done if the under side of
the leaves is not thoroughly wetted. Red spider is kept in check
by many insect foes, or it would do us much more harm.

Some people who are liable to be attacked by what is often
called the “ harvest bug ” are very careful to keep away from corn
fields during August, not knowing, perhaps, that this pest may
attack us in our own garden. The harvest bug, T. autumnalis,
which is another of the spinning mites, occurs not only about fields
but amongst Beans, Currants, and Raspberries, also on some
herbaceous plants in our borders, and upon the grass of lawns. It
is a brownish red, but very minute, so that it is not easily seen ; but
it can make itself felt. People often suppose that have been bitten
by fleas or gnats, when they have been insidiously attacked by this
mite, which sometimes, though not always, buries itself under
the skin, raising a lump or tumour. Some persons present no
attractions to this insect, others suffer much from it, and it
frequently assails the domestic cat, owing to its habit of prowling
about gardens in quest of birds. Cats have been found to have
swarms of harvest bugs on their feet and legs, causing the supposi¬
tion that they are suffering from itch. A curious fact is, that
before they transfer themselves to man and animals these bugs
have been feeding upon vegetable juices, which they quit to become
bloodsuckers. Another of the harvest mites has been noticed by
thousands upon the pebbles of garden walks near London, having,
it is thought, been conveyed there with gravel. This is Trom-
bidium lapidom, rose red when young, afterwards brown or
brownish red, with a few white spots. Probably the insect after¬
wards attaches itself to various low plants. Another of this genus
that occurs in gardens is T. holosericeum, a mite with an array of
barbed hairs on its back, which is very plump, and scarlet in hue.
Mr. Stewart states that it is useful, because it devours aphides and
small newly hatched caterpillars. — Entomologist.

NOTES BY THE WAY.

Beamblette is a name that calls up recollections of pleasant
country lanes, margined by hedges heavy with the sprawling, rambling
growths of Blackberries ; but it is not by such ways that it must be
sought. The place lies on the main road from East Grinstead to Mares-
field, Nutfield, Uckfield, and so on in the direction of the coast. From
Oakleigh, which is on the left, to Brambletye, which is on the right, is
but a short walk, and neither time nor trouble need therefore be
expended in reaching it. The place is in the occupation of Donald
Larnach, Esq., a wealthy Australian, or Scotchman with Australian
connections, and it is certainly one of the finest estates in a neighbour¬
hood which is far from being poor in imposing establishments. The
house is a fine one, commanding splendid views of Ashdown Forest and
the southern range of hills. It stands out boldly in its tree-clad
eminence, and can be seen for many miles around.

With the gardens of Brambletye was for a long time associated the
name of an excellent cultivator — Mr. Jenks, but he is now installed in a
little nursery in the adjoining village of Ashurst Wood ; and a stalwart
broad-shouldered Scot, in the person of Mr. G. F. Glen, reigns in his
stead. I do not know whether the latter emulated the feats of the
famous Donald Dinnie in his younger days ; he certainly looks big
enough, and strong enough too, and in his brogue there is the burr of a
mighty bass. Before coming into Sussex he had charge of the extensive
gardens at Wentworth Woodhouse, Lord Fitzwilliam’s splendid York¬
shire seat, and has therefore had the experience which stands a man in
such good stead when a large place is offered to him. Between York¬
shire and Sussex there is a difference other than that of so many miles.

The true Yorkshireman is of quite a different type to the Sussexite,
and doubtless therefore the Anglo-Scottish gardener finds the conditions
of work much at variance with those in the northern county.

Brambletye is a large place, and the flower garden is some distance
from the kitchen garden and houses. To the former Mr. Glen did not
lead me, considerations of the presence of “ the family ” operating
with him so far as I could understand. A gardener should always
place the wishes of his employers before any desire to have his own
handiwork admired. The impulse should be respected even while due
weight is given to the fact that most gentlemen make a wide distinction
between visitors who come to pourtray the beauties of their estates and
those who come to ramble round out of mere curiosity, or perhaps to
find openings for adverse criticism. If a gardener has a fine house of
Grapes, representing in a great measure his own cultural skill, he likes
to have it appreciated, and quite right, say I ; similarly, if a gentleman
has a beautiful house and grounds he does not disapprove of their being
admired, but in nine cases out of ten is glad to have others express their
pleasure in them, but always at a convenient time.

But if, from the reasons given, I am not in a position to say what
Brambletye is like from the main ornamental point of view there is a
side issue to which I gladly call attention. This is neither more nor less
than a sub-tropical garden formed on the site of a large rubbish heap at
the entrance to the kitchen garden. What transformation could be
more striking ? At the theatre one sometimes sees a gay ball-room
scene succeed a representation of a thieves’ kitchen, or a stately street
of palaces and temples follow a hideous slum. Mr. Glen has directed
his scene-shifters with such wisdom and boldness that he has produced
something well worthy of comparison with the best efforts of a Telbin.
This little sub-tropical garden — the word “ bed ” is insufficient — is one
of the most admirable ornamental features of a large place that 1 have
seen in any garden this year. I understand that its conception was due
to a special wish of Mrs. Larnach, and everybody is to be congratulated
on the result.

The little garden is not a stiff square nor a formal parallelogram, nor,
if I may be permitted to say it, an equally stiff and formal circle. It
is undulating and flowing in outline, with graceful sweeps and curves,
possessing that free informal character which everybody so much
admires, but rarely, if ever, imitates. It is as boldly planted as it is
admirably designed. Stately Musas uprear their huge leaves, and the
beautifully marked foliage of Lavatera arborea variegata shows up well.
This fine plant is as effective in form as it is in the markings of its
leafage, which, by the way, were not half developed at the time of my
visit. Ricinuses also play an important part, Gibsoni and Obermanni
being very conspicuous, as do Atriplex hortensis rubra, Abutilon
Thompson!, Wigandias, Coleuses, Agapanthuses (giving a welcome tone
of colour against the masses of foliage), and Zeas. A pleasing carpet or
groundwork is formed of the little Koniga variegata. And all this in the
place of a rubbish heap 1 _

There are other ornamental features about this part of the garden.
F or instance, it is observed that the exterior bases of all the houses are
furnished with flowering plants, in which Zonal Pelargoniums and
Heliotropes shine conspicuously. This entirely does away with the bare
appearance which usually prevails. And the interior of the fruit houses
is also brightened up with plants, for which a sort of platform stage is
provided at the side of the path. This is the wish of the ladies of the
house, and there can be no denying the beautiful and cheerful appear¬
ance that it imparts. Amongst them are noticed Globe Amaranths,
Celosias, Musk, Petunias, Lobelias, Coleuses, Diplacus glutinosus,
Francoa ramosa. Fuchsias, Nicotiana affinis. Hydrangeas, Achimenes and
Gloxinias, all clean, healthy, and flowering freely. It is easy to imagine
many gardeners declaring that it is quite enough to grow Peaches and
Grapes without having plants to bother abont as well, but it is done at
Brambletye, and the result is very good. Alschynanthus Lobbianus I
noticed growing and flowering freely in a hanging basket, and a beautiful
object it was. _

I must not forget the fruit in admiring the flowers. Vines and
Peaches looked remarkably well, notwithstanding that a thoughtless
act on the part of an assistant had somewhat seared the foliage of
the latter. They must have a congenial root medium, for they grow
with extraordinary luxuriance, in spite of the lifting that has been
repeatedly practised. Grosse Mignonne carried a grand crop of very
fine fruit, two trees giving twenty-two dozen. I was much struck with
the exceptional colour in Lord Napier Nectarine. All the varieties
colour highly, but his lordship was deeply suffused almost all over his
countenance with a rich and ruddy glow, quite drowning his usual
speckled appearance. The Grapes are excellent, and some canes of
Buckland Sweetwater and Foster’s Seedling, four years old, have made
unusual progress. They are evidently in good soil and well managed.

The outdoor fruit is a wonderfully heavy crop, and it was sad, in one
sense, to see quantities falling from the drought. One of the best Apples
in a somewhat large collection is Harvey’s Wiltshire Defiance, a
conical fruit with prominent ribs, and taking on a rich colour. It is a
constant cropper, a good keeper, and possesses excellent quality. There

August 31, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

191

are also some model trees of Bramley’s Seedling, planted by Mr. Jenka
when the variety was first sent out, I believe. He was bold enough to
plant a good many, and they have amply vindicated his judgment. It
is admitted to be one of the best Apples grown in the neighbourhood.
D. T. Fish and Warner’s King, often classed as synonymous, are distinct
enough at Brambletye, and particularly so in the foliage. The former
has small, light-coloured leaves, the latter much larger and darker ones.
The difference between them in this respect is not so minute as to
require a long study with a microscope to discover, but is clear and
palpable enough at a glance. Early Rivers Plum was breaking down
its branches with fruit, bearing, not wisely, but too well. Some people
are fond of saying that this wonderful Plum has made a handsome slice
in a goodly fortune for Mr. Rivers ; that I know nothing about, and it
is a private matter into which it is not seemly to inquire. But of this
I feel satisfied, whether it has filled his pockets or not, it has those of
more than one market grower, though they are not too fond of
admitting anything about the pocket- filling, only the emptying.

One more hint picked up at Brambletye, and that is concerning the
great usefulness in a season like the present of New Zealand Spinach.
Sown in heat in April and planted out on mounds in a frame, minus
lights at the time of my visit, it had been picked from all the summer,
and would assuredly give dishes until the frost came, a period of some¬
thing like six months let us say. It grows luxuriously and continuously,
and though I am not going to say it would be as acceptable in the
dining room as tender and delicate Peas, it is not despised in a season
when Peas and Beans are excessively scarce.

Prom what I saw at Brambletye it is a place well done and worth
visiting. I congratulate Mr. Glen on his good work, and wander
through a rock-lined path, and across the fields to Plaw Hatch, the
residence of Mrs. Arbuthnot, and the gardens of which are in charge of
Mr. Draper. That wise and witty gardener has much to talk about and
much to show you. What a conversationalist he is to be sure 1 And
what a garden he has under his charge ! Surely there never was such a
mixture. 1 am overwhelmed by it. Descriptive powers of an ordinary
type are of no avail in dealing with Plaw Hatch. Mr. Draper is too
much for me. — W. P. W.

BLACK HAMBUEGH GRAPES OUTDOORS.

I SEND you a box containing one bunch of Black Hamburgh Grapes
grown and ripened entirely out of doors without any artificial aid on the
south wall of my house. The season is, of course, exceptional, but I
have ripened them thoroughly the three past seasons, though always
later in the year.

The wall, as is the case in many houses in these south-western
counties, is slated to keep out the driving winds, and this no doubt helps
in the result, and there is a kitchen chimney inside ; but there must be
hundreds of houses equally favourably situated (for this is very much
exposed to winds and gets no shelter) which might well produce similar
results. I have about fifty bunches larger and smaller this year, the
Vine having been planted four years ago. There was a fine bloom
on the Grapes when packed, but I fear they will suffer in transit. —
J. R. Ddmmelow, Membury Parsonage, Chard.

[The bunch of Grapes was of medium size, the berries being fine and
well coloured.]

SUMMER LETTUCES.

The difficulty of maintaining a supply of Lettuces this summer has
been a common cause of complaint. Those having a poor soil to deal
with have no doubt experienced a Lettuce famine to a certain extent.
Daniel’s Continuity, a variety spoken favourably of by your corre¬
spondent “ W. K. W.” recently, has been very useful here on account
of its long standing before running to seed. Its colour, too, causes it
to be looked upon by those unacquainted with it as somewhat of a
novelty, making an agreeable change with the lighter green of Cos
and Cabbage varieties. Hammersmith, one of the most reliable for
winter work, “ bolted ” every plant under the tropical sun we have lately
experienced, though sown and planted alongside Veitch’s Perfect Gem and
other popular sorts. Sutton’s Intermediate is a good Lettuce. As its name
implies, it is intermediate in appearance and character between the
Cabbage and Cos varieties. It has the dark leaves of the Bath Cos, with
the dwarf growth and compact head of the Cabbage. Those who object
to the soft leaf of the latter section would find in this an intermediate
crispness between the two, and for this reason I am inclined to the belief
that it will become popular. It has been the favourite of all the sorts
grown in these gardens this summer. The Celery ridge usually furnish the
finest Lettuce of the season, but it has not done so in our case this
year ; the best we have had was from firm undug ground on which
Strawberries were planted late last autumn in one instance, and
another in which a crop of Broccoli was grown last year, and the
ground left undug for planting the same crop again this summer.

The Lettuce seeds were sown in the intermediary spaces in the spring,
and the Broccoli plants put out in their places when they were ready before
the Lettuces were cleared off. We were cutting some very fine heads
from this firm ground when in many gardens they refused to grow at
all, consequent on the severe drought. Veitch’s Perfect Gem has done
splendidly, and is a valuable and distinct summer variety, and from
what I saw of it last spring in a neighbour’s garden I should say it is a
good winter sort too. — W. Steugnell, Rood Ashton Gardens,

LILIUM HENRYI.

Although this beautiful Lilium has been grown at the Royal
Gardens, Kew, for the past three or four years, it has not yet found its
way into many private establishments. Being now in commerce, how¬
ever, it will no doubt be quickly distributed, for the distinctiveness of
the flower will render the species popular. It is a charming Lily, and is
said to have been discovered in 1888 near Ichang in the Hupeh Province
of Western China by Dr. A. Henry, a missionary in that locality.
Mr. Ford, Hong Kong Botanical Gardens, sent bulbs of it to Kew, and
these flowered in August, 1889. Bulbs have been planted out at Kew,
and they are now flowering profusely, the spikes varying from
4 to 6 feet or more in height, and carrying upwards of a dozen flowers
each.

As will be seen by the illustration (fig 28), which has been prepared
from a bloom kindly supplied by Mr. T. S. Ware, Hale Farm Nursery,
Tottenham, the flower resembles that of L. lancifolium in shape, but
differs considerably in colour, being of a rich orange yellow shade
marked with crimson. It is a vigorous growing species, and is now

flowering freely in Mr. Ware’s nursery, where, we believe, it has proved
quite hardy. By referring to the report of the Exhibition held under the
auspices of the Royal Horticultural Society at the Agricultural Hall
this week, it will be seen that a first-class certificate has been awarded
for this grand Lilium. _

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

GREAT SHOW AT THE AGRICULTURAL HALL.

August 29th, 30th, 31st, and Sept. 1st.

The frequent references to the great Exhibition of the Royal
Horticultural Society at Islington have proved the interest which the
event has excited in the floral world. It has been approved and con¬
demned, voted too long, and fixed for the wrong place, and in other ways
criticised, but withal it has taken hold of people’s attention. We do
not know particulars of the arrangement which the two Societies have
made in connection with the Show, but at least it must be admitted
that the R.H.S. has done its share of the work well, for a great and
varied Exhibition has been arranged which merits the support of the
public. There was a magnificent display of fruit, perhaps the best which
has been got together in London of recent years, and that in itself should
prove a great attraction. The leading growers, both amateur and pro¬
fessional, have acquitted themselves nobly, and when such leading
cultivators as Messrs. Bunyard, Cheal, Paul, Rivers, Veitch, Woodward,

192

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 31, 1893.

aad others are doing their best the display is no mediocre one. Then
there was a wonderful display of cut flowers — one of the finest ever seen —
Roses, Gladioli, and Dahlias being the three chief features, and most of
the leading growers were represented by them. Groups of plants made
grand banks in the centre of the Great Hall, but imposing though they
were it is doubtful if these are not relatively the least striking feature of
the Exhibition. They were dwarfed by the great altitude of the building,
but had they been a little elevated a superb effect would have been
produced.

There was only a small attendance in the early portion of the
opening day, but we hope to be able to record in due course a success as
great from the financial as it undoubtedly is from an artistic point of
view. While it is a pleasure to note so much that is good, we must not
overlook one or two oversights, especially as we are authoritatively
informed that the Council enjoy fair criticism. One mistake — we will
call it a printer’s — fixed the time for judging at one o’clock, whereas it
ought to have been finished then, and it naturally caused delay and con¬
fusion in staging. The 1 o’clock was no doubt intended for 11
o’clock, so firstly by the misplacement of a comma (referred to in
another place), and then the omission of a “ 1,” a check was experienced,
but all went smoothly in the end. The second oversight was in
omitting to send reporters’ tickets, at least to this office, and we wonder
how the authorities thought our three reporters could pass the closely
guarded barriers to let the world have a record of this, the last and best
work up to date of the R.H.S. However, reporters are proverbially
men of resource, and the following is the result of their endeavours. The
luncheon, however, beat them, though the scribes belonging to ordinary
(not horticultural) newspapers found admittance to the tables. Perhaps
the Agricultural Hall Company were responsible for the ticket arrange¬
ments, and they were not like the Show itself — a success.

Fruit.

A detachment from the Fruit Committee, headed by Dr. Hogg, was
told off to inspect the large contributions arranged in the body of the
hall, such as those of Messrs. Bunyard, Cheal, Rivers, Veitch, and others,
and splendid they were, a reserve being arranged for the table for the
examination of new products under the superintendence of the genial
Chairman, Mr. Phillip Crowley. The table men, in addition to the
Chairman, were, so far as can be remembered, Messrs. T. F. Rivers,
F. Q. Lane, J. Hudson, J. Cheal, G. Reynolds, A. J. Laing, A. Young, and
J. Wright. The flying contingent, besides the Doctor, were Messrs.
Taber, H. J. Pearson, H. Balderson, G. W. Cummins, A. Dean, and
W. H. Divers, and both divisions had plenty to do. The first products
placed on the table were from Mr. Owen Thomas, from the Royal
Gardens, Frogmore, who sent a white Melon raised from Frogmore
Seedling and High Cross Hybrid. The seedling was handsome, juicy,
and refreshing, but wanting in flavour. Another Melon from Frogmore
named Cambrian was similar in character, but with a distinct aroma.
Several fine fruits of Frogmore Seedling were sent by Mr. Thomas, and
a vote of thanks was awarded. Mr. Llewellyn Hughes sent a dish of
splendid fruits of Lord Sufifield Apple grown in a small back garden in
populous Islington, far superior to fruits that were grown in the country
twenty years ago. We are advancing, and a cultural commenda¬
tion was awarded to Mr. Hughes. A new Melon was sent by E. Hart,
Esq., Fairlawn, Totteridge, Herts (gardener, Mr. J. Smith). It is a
closely netted fruit raised from Countess and Syon House ; good, but not
quite good enough for a certificate. Mr. E. Gilman, gardener to the
Earl of Shrewsbury, sent six Melons — Pride of Ingestrie, the result of
a cross between Colston Bassett and Syon House ; fruits handsome,
juicy, sweet, and refreshing, but not equal to existing varieties, and no
award was made.

Mr. W. H. Divers sent a seedling Peach Late Crimson, raised from
Byron Nectarine, fruit fine and very heavy, said to ripen after Sea Eagle.
Mr. Divers was requested to send six fruits another year, and so comply
with the conditions, which he was unable to do on the present occasion.
Messrs. R. Veitch & Son sent from Exeter fruits of the Late Devonian
Peach, the result of a cross between Belle de Vitry and Late Admirable.
They were sent to show the high colour of the variety, and ripe samples
are expected to be sent to a subsequent meeting. Mr. Miller, gardener
to Lord Foley, Ruxley Lodge, Esher, sent fine fruits of Barrington and
Chancellor Peaches, but they were not ripe (vote of thanks).

Mr. John Allsop, The Gardens, Dalton Hall, Hull, sent a dish of
Tomatoes Allsop’s Elected. A splendid cluster was exhibited, and
handsome individual fruits. Recommended to be tried at Chiswick.
Messrs. James Carter & Co. sent dishes of the Duke of York Tomato,
very fine fruits. A beautiful dish of Blenheim Orange was also sent
by Messrs. Carter, and a vote of thanks accorded. Messrs. Collins
Brothers sent a plant of the Challenger Tomato bearing fine fruits. Vote
of thanks, the variety having been previously certificated. Mr. Joseph
Fitt, The Gardens, Malshanger Park, sent two fine clusters of the Lady’s
Finger Banana, and a cultural commendation was awarded.

Mr. J. Hudson sent from Gunnersbury House neat bunches of Lady
Hutt (round white), and Appley Towers (black) cut from Vines grown
on the Muscat of Alexandria ; also Gros Maroc from a Foster’s Seedling
stock for representing improvement in flavour ; but as no fruit from a
Vine on its own roots was sent for comparison, no opinion was expressed,
but a vote of thanks awarded. Mr. Francis Calver, Ludlow, sent a dish
of smal .yellow dessert Apples, ripe, tender, of fair quality and useful

as ripening at the present season. The variety was not named (vote of
thanks).

A seedling Potato,iGeorge Dickson, was sent by Mr. H. Mackerbeth,
Ulverstone ; tubers round, roughly skinned, and of excellent shape ;
recommended to be grown at Chiswick, as the produce was much
admired. A similar recommendation was made in respect to a new
Kidney Potato, named Barton Court Perfection, the result of a cross
between Magnum Bonum and Snowdrop ; beautiful shaped tubers, sent
by Mr. Wm. Young, Barton Court Gardens, Kintbury.

Mr. William Trotter, gardener to F. Ricardo, Esq., Bromeberrow
Place, Ledbury, sent two cases of fruit, grown and dried at Bromeberrow.
Apples and Plums in different varieties were represented, also Peas and
Kidney Beans. The samples were so good and suggestive that a silver
medal was unanimously recommended. Mr. J. Clarke, Albion Nursery,
Farnham, sent upwards of thirty bunches of Grapes in seven varieties,
grown without fire heat, not large but good and well finished, and a
small silver medal was recommended for them.

Dr. P. H. Emerson, Claringbold, Broadstairs, Kent, sent an unusual
and interesting collection of fruits and vegetables grown in the open
air, comprising Sweet Potatoes (Convolvulus Batatas), Ohio Squash,
Brazilian Gourd, Yokohama Squash, fine English Codlin Apples (grown
on the Quince stock), English Coilin, Skirret, Hamburgh Turnip-rooted
Parsley, Beurrd Hardy Pears, Sweet Mountain Peppers, Spanish Mammoth
Pepper, Monstrous Pepper, Egg Plant (Early Dwarf and Long Purple),
Sandwich Island Salsify, Lima Bean, Ground Nuts (Arachis hypogsea),
Pe. Tsai (Brassica sinensis var.). A bronze medal was unanimously
recommended, and the Chinese Cabbage, which is said to be very hardy,
and somewhat like Spinach when cooked, but more mucilaginous,
requested to be grown at Chiswick.

The preceding exhibits were examined at the Committee table ; the
following arranged in the body of the hall, and here, it must be said,
that the display of fruit by the leading nurserymen was magnificent,
trees in pots bearing splendid dishes, forming an appropriate and effec¬
tive background to the dishes and baskets in front.

Messrs. T. F. Rivers & Son had splendid Peach and Pear trees in pots
bearing fruit of the first size and tempting in quality. The prominent
Peaches, Sea Eagle, Albatross, Princess of Wales, Osprey, and unnamed
seedlings were all very fine, as were the Pears Labrun, Louise Bonne
of Jersey, Souvenir du Congr^s, Conference, and Marie Louise d’Uccle.
The valuable Monarch Plum was represented by heavily laden trees in
pots and splendid fruit in boxes— a Plum with a future, as ripening
when the “ glut” is over. Pigs in pots were well shown, and what may
be termed a hedge of fruiting Vines had an imposing effect. A gold
medal was recommended for this splendid collection.

Messrs. Cheal & Sons had heavily laden Apples and Pears in pots,
the fruit being fine and admirably coloured. Two years old Bismarck
Apples were laden with fruit ; still finer were many of the specimens
shown in baskets and dishes, all the leading varieties being admirably
represented, such as Alexander, Gascoigne’s Seedling, Frogmore Prolific,
Bismarck, Worcester Pearmain, Lady Sudeley, Flower of Kent, MSre de
Manage, Cellini, The Queen, and others, all speckless and in beautiful
colour. Pears were also excellently represented (silver-gilt Knightian
medal). Messrs. James Veitch & Sons had an extensive and imposing
display of Apples, Pears, and Plums, with a central group of Figs and
Peaches in pots. Some of the finest Apples were Seaton House,
Winter Hawthornden, Peasgood’s Nonesuch, Frogmore Prolific, Stirling
Castle, Gascoigne’s Seedling. Of Plums, Grand Duke, Autumn Compote,
Belle de Septembre, Monarch, Coe’s Golden Drop, Late Transparent
Gage, Bryanston Gage, and Decaisne, attracted attention by their size
and colour. Raspberries and Cherries were also included in this fine
collection (silver-gilt Knightian medal).

Messrs. G. Bunyard & Co. had a splendid (xhibit of fruit and fruit
trees, its interest lying as much in its great diversity as in its quality.
There were trained trees of nearly all kinds, such as espaliers ready
for furnishing fences or walls, cordons, fans, pyramids, amateurs’
standards fruiting up the stem and forming good heads, the kinds
represented in fruit being Peaches and Nectarines, Apples, Pears,
Grapes, Plums, and Figs. Such an exhibit as this must be full of
interest to the public and not without instruction. There were about
sixty trees in all. The Maidstone firm also had a splendid display
of gathered fruit, comprising about 120 dishes, thirty-six baskets,
and seven stands (Grapes). Amongst the finest of the Apples were
Duchess of Oldenburg, Lord Suffield, Annie Elizabeth, Cellini, Lord
Grosvenor, Potts’ Seedling, Stone’s, Lady Sudeley, The Queen, Wor¬
cester Pearmain, Stirling Castle, and Grenadier. Pears — Dr. Jules
Guyot, and Williams’ Bon Chrfitien. Plums— Cox’s Emperor, and
Monarch. The Nuts are also worthy of mention. The Prolific Filbert
was shown in large clusters quite ripe, and a large and splendid
variety likely to become very popular is Bergere. About fourteen
varieties of Strawberries were shown, some in planting pots and others
potted off (silver gilt Knightian medal, and it ought to be a large one).

Messrs. W. Paul & Son, Waltham Cross, had a large display of
Apples, Pears and Plums, the produce being of their usual high quality.
They also had some splendid trees in pots (silver-gilt Knightian).

The English Fruit and Rose Company (Cranston’s) sent 100 dishes
of Apples, large in size and well coloured, some of the best being
Seigende Reinette, Lord Suffield, Tom Putt, Lord Grosvenor, King of
the Pippins, and Potts’ Seedling. Mr. Bythway had forty-five dishes of
Apples and two baskets, some of his varieties being very good indeed,
notably Bramley’s Seedling, Tom Putt, Tower of Glamis, Mfere de
Manage, The Queen, and Ribston (silver Knightian). Messrs. Spooner

August 31, 1S93, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

193

and Sons had ninety-five dishes and baskets, but they were in two parts,
otherwise would have looked more effective. The fruit was not note¬
worthy for size, but was clear, and well coloured (silver Knightian).
Messrs. J. Peed & Sons sent fifty dishes of well-coloured Apples and
Pears (silver Knightian).

Competitive Classes. — The misplacement of a comma caused some to
wonder what was wanted in the first of the fruit classes. The schedule
read, “ Twelve distinct kinds, black and white Grapes, admissible.”
This was thought to refer to twelve kinds of Grapes, black and white, but
a very little reflection should have sufficed to show that twelve kinds of
fruit, black and white Grapes admissible, was meant. There was some
delay in judging this, so we may take the second class first. This was
for six distinct kinds, black and white Grapes admissible, as before. Mr.
Ocock won with Muscat of Alexandria and Alicante, Elruge Nectarine,
Cox’s Golden Gem Melon, Osprey Peach, and Williams’ Bon Chretien
Pear, altogether a very good display. Mr. Masterson was a good second,
but weakened by moderate black Grapes, and Mr. Wallis third.

Mr. McTndoe, gardener to Sir J. W. Pease, Bart,, M.P., Hutton Hall,
Guisboro’, was the only exhibitor of twelve kinds, and it was hardly up
to his best condition. He had fair Gros Guillaume and Buckland
Sweetwater Grapes, Negro Largo Figs, Moorpark Apricots, Pineapple
Nectarines. Exquisite Peaches, Beurr6 d’Amanlis Pears, Magnum Bonum
Melon, Jefferson’s Plums, Ribston Pippin Apple, Morello Cherries, and a
fair Pine. The second prize was awarded.

Grapes were excellently but not extensively shown. The first of the
classes was for three bunches of Muscat of Alexandria, the principal
prize being a silver cup presented by the Turner Memorial Trustees.
This was secured by Mr. Reynolds, gardener to the Messrs, de Rothschild,
Gunnersbury Park, Acton, with large and splendidly coloured clusters.
Mr. Winter, gardener to W. Maw, Esq., Walk House, Barrow-on-
Humber, was second with bunches of a very similar character, but a
trifle smaller ; while Messrs. Tidy of Stanmore, and Jordon of Holdenby
House Gardens, were equal third. There were three other stands. A
similar prize was offered for Black Hamburgh, and this cup was carried
off by Mr. Elphinstone, gardener to E. M. Mundy, Esq., Shipley Hall,
Derby, whose bunches were very fine in berry and splendidly coloured.
Mr. Reynolds was second, his berries being smaller than those of Mr.
Elphinstone ; and Mr. Messenger was third. Three others competed. Mr.
Reynolds had the best three bunches of any other white, Buckland Sweet¬
water, perfectly coloured and fine in berry, securing him the first prize.
Mr. Osman, gardener to L. J. Baker, Esq., Ottershaw Park, Chertsey,
was second with Mrs. Pearson. Mr. S. T. Wright, gardener to 0. Lee
Campbell, Esq., Glewston Court, Ross, had some magnificent 6-lb.
bunches of Alicante in the class for any other black Grapes, and won
somewhat easily ; but Mr. Howe, gardener to H. Tate, Esq , Park Hill,
Streatham, showed the same variety very finely, and was a most credit¬
able second ; Mr. Reynolds being third with good Gros Maroc.

There was one other class for Grapes, this calling for sixteen bunches
in eight varieties, and some splendid fruit was staged in it. Mr.
Reynolds had a grand collection, his bunches being well coloured
throughout, and the berries very fine. He had Chasselas Napoleon,
Madresfield Court, Muscat of Alexandria, Black Hamburgh, enormous
bunches of Trebbiano, Alicante, Mrs. Pearson, and Gros Maroc. Taken
in conjunction with his other successes, Mr. Reynolds may be said to
have scored a Grape triumph. Another splendid contribution came
from Mr. Bury, gardener to C. Bayer, Esq., Tewkesbury Lodge, Forest
Hill, who had Alicante, Muscat of Alexandria, Gros Guillaume, and
Gros Maroc in very fine condition, but Trebbiano was not nearly so
good as Mr. Reynolds’s. Mr. Wallis was third, his Golden Queen being
the best.

Some splendid Peaches were shown in the class for four dishes, six
fruits to each. Mr. Divers, gardener to J. T. Hopwood, Esq., Ketton
Hall, Stamford, won with magnificent fruit of Princess of Wales, Bar¬
rington, Prince of Wales, and Sea Eagle. They were of great size and
splendidly coloured. Mr. Woodward, Barham Court Gardens, Maid¬
stone, followed, also having beautiful examples. Mr. Mclndoe was
third, and an extra prize was deservedly awarded to Mr. Wallis,
gardener to R. Sneyd, Esq., Keele Hall, Newcastle, Staffs. Mr. Tidy
gardener to W. R. D’Arcy, Esq., Stanmore, was first with two dishes.
Sea Eagle and Late Admirable representing him. Mr. Ocock, gardener
to Mrs. McIntosh, Havering Park, Romford, was second ; and Mr.
Elphinstone, Henley Park, Surrey, third. Mr. Mclndoe won with four
dishes of Nectarines, his varieties being Byron, Humboldt, Pineapple,
and Spenser, small, but beautifully coloured. Mr. Woodward was
second, and there was another competitor, Mr. Potter, St. Clere Gardens,
Kemsing, who was perhaps third, but his card was not marked. Mr.
Divers appeared to be the only exhibitor of two dishes, and was awarded
the first prize for Spenser and Pineapple in excellent order.

Mr. Ocock had the best pair of Melons, staging very fine fruits of
Countess and a white-fleshed seedling. Mr. Messenger was a good
second, and Mr. Masterson, gardener to the Marchioness of Camperdown,
Weston House, Shipston-on-Stour, third. With four dishes of Plums
Mr. Mclndoe was to the front, winning with excellent dishes of white
Magnum Bonum, Prince Englebert, Jefferson, and Lawson’s Golden
Gage. Mr. Turton, gardener to J. Hargreaves, Esq., Maiden Erlegh, was
second, and Mr. Messenger, Woolverstone Park Gardens, Ipswich,
third. Mr. Mclndoe was easily first with a collection of Plums.

Apples were extremely good. There were nine collections of six
dishes, and of these the best was a wonderful half dozen from Mr.
Woodward, which easily accounted for the first prize. The varieties
were Peasgood’s Nonesuch, Emperor Alexander, New Hawthornden,

Warner’s King, Lord Suffield, and Washington, all being of enormous
size, clean, and finely coloured. Mr. G. Chambers, Beech Farm,
Mereworth, Maidstone, was second, his Cox’s Pomona being full of
colour, and the other varieties were very good. Mr. Turton, Maiden
Erleigh, Reading, and Mr. Prinsep, gardener to Viscountess Folkestone,
Buxted Park, Sussex, were equal third. Thiee dishes of Pears were
asked for, and with these Mr. Gibson, gardener to Earl Cowley, Draycott
House, Chippenham, was victorious, his varieties being Beurr^ Clairgeau,
Duchesse d’Angouleme, and Pitmaston Duchess of great size. Mr.
Woodward was second. Messrs. Masterson and another, whose card was
unmarked, equal third.

Mr. Watkins’ prizes for a collection of hardy fruit was carried off by
Messrs. Woodward and Mclndoe, both having excellent displays. The
former’s first-prize stand was strengthened by some very good Peaches,
which were lacking in the Yorkshire grower’s collection. He also had
some splendid Apples, Pears, and Plums. Mr. Mclndoe had Apples,
Pears, Cherries, Plums, Gooseberries, Apricots, Nuts, and Red Currants
— a good and varied exhibit.

The first prize for a collection of Apples went to Messrs. Bunyard
and Sons, who had a large and very varied collection of high-class
fruit, the produce being large, clean, and well coloured, speaking
volumes for the Maidstone soil, air, and culture. The English Fruit
and Rose Company were second in this class. Mr. Woodward secured
the first of Messrs. Bunyard & Co.’s prizes for three duhes of dessert
Apples with Ribston, Washington, and Lady Sudeley, beautifully
coloured, and the first for three dishes of culinary varieties with Peaa-
good’s Nonesuch, Stone’s and Warner’s King, the minor awards going
to Messrs. Chambers and Turton.

Messrs. Bunyard & Co. appeared to be the only exhibitors of orchard
house trees, and were awarded the first prize for healthy, well-trained
specimens, carrying excellent fruit. Mr. Mclndoe won with orchard
grown fruit, Mr. Potter being second, and Mr. Nicholson, gardener to
J. W. Melles, Esq.. Sewardstone Lodge, Chingford, third.

Vegetables.

There were nine vegetable classes, the first of them being for a
colloction of twelve distinct kinds arranged in baskets or “ rounds,” the
first prize being the Turner Memorial cup, value £5. Mr. Waite,
gardener to Colonel Talbot, Glenhurst, Esher, won with some grand
produce. His imposing basket was made up of Carter’s Autumn
Mammoth Cauliflower, Satisfaction Potato, Globe Artichokes, Silver Ball
Turnip, Intermediate Carrot, Glenhurst Favourite Tomato, Ailsa Craig
Onion, Veitch’s Early Rose Celery, Pragnell’s Beet, Student Parsnip,
Ne Plus Ultra Runners, and Dobbie’s Champion Leeks. Mr. Wilkins,
gardener to Lady Theodore Guest, Inwooi House, Henstridge, was
second also with grand produce, his Ailsa Craig Onions and Intermediate
Carrot being particularly fine. Mr. Watson third. Only one competed
with six kinds, namely Mr. Payne, gardener to W. A. South, Esq.,
Neasdon, and the first prize was awarded to him, a generous decision.
The first of Messrs. Carter’s prizes went to Mr. Waite for a very fine
basket of the Holborn firm’s excellent specialities, and the second to
Mr. Payne. Mr. Chopping, Periwinkle Mills, Sittingbourne, was first
for Messrs. Carter’s prize for Potatoes, showing six, excellent dishes.
This amateur is an admirable grower of Potatoes. Mr. Waite was
second. Mr. Chopping also won the Turner Mem rial cup for twelve
dishes of Potatoes, exhibiting some magnificent tubers. Mr. Waite was
second, and Mr. W. Young, Barton Court Gardens, Kintbury was third.
Messrs. Cannell & Sons and Mr. Wilkins had very fine collections of
Onions not for competition, for which silver medals were recommended.

Mr. Waite won with Salads, and was second with Onions, being
defeated in this class by Mr. Wilkins, whose produce was larger but
less handsome than Mr. Waite’s. Mr. Wilkin? had Lord Keeper and
Mr. Waite Ailsa Craig. Mr. Howe won with three dishes of Tomatoes,
having very good dishes of Lady Bird, Silver’s Invincible, and Per¬
fection. Mr. Ryder was second, and Mr. Tidy third. Messrs.
Dobbie & Co. offered prizes for their fine Leek Champion, and some
splendid produce was shown. Mr. D. Gibson, gardener to C. R. Dubs,
Esq., was first, Mr. R. Watson second, and Mr. J. Findlay third.
Messrs. Dobbie exhibited some grand specimens of the Leek themselves,
and also of their other specialities. Messrs. Carter & Co. exhibited a
large and handsome Tomato named Duke of York, also their well-
known Blenheim Orange.

Plants and Cut Flowers.

This section comprised the bulk of the exhibits, and the following
members of the Floral Committee made the awards in the miscellaneous
division. Messrs. G. Paul, C. T. Druery, T. D. Pawle, W. H. Williams,
C. E. Pearson, R. Owen, C. Jeffries, W. Bain, G. Stevens, R. Dean,
J. H. Fitt, Thomas Godfrey, R. B. Lowe, C. J. Salter, J. Jennings,
H. Turner and Frank Ross.

Messrs. E. D. Shuttleworth & Co., Albert Nurseries, Peckham Rye,
and Fleet, Hants, had a large group of miscellaneous plants, arranged
in an effective manner. The background was composed of large Palms,
and the front portion being principally Crotons, Dracmnas, Coleus,
Maidenhair Ferns, Conifers of various kinds, and Liliums (silver-gilt
Flora medal). Messrs. W. Cutbush & Son, Highgate Nurseries, N., also
contributed a group of ornamental foliage and flowering plants,
including large Palms, Liliums, Dracaenas, Carnations, Bouvardias,
Dracsenas, and Ciotons, the whole being put together in a charming
manner (silver Flora medal). Mr. C. Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough,
staged a splendid group of Liliums and Hydrangeas, amongst which
were a few Palms. This group made an imposing appearance, and was
much admired by visitors (silver Banksian medal). A solid-looking

194

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 31, 1893.

mound of Pompon Dahlias, tuberous Begonias, Adiantums, and Zonal
Pelargoniums was arranged by Mr. H. J. Jones, Rycroft Nursery,
Lewisham. Amongst the Zonal Pelargoniums the “nearest blue”
variety, Mrs. W. Wright, was most conspicuous. This is a showy
Zonal with large trusses of bloom (silver Flora medal). Mr. J.
Hudson, gardener to Messrs . de Rothschild, Gunnersbury House, Acton,
exhibited in this section, as well as in the competitive classes, a number
of trained scented-leaved Pelargoniums. Two plants of the old Radula,
trained like a fan, were most attractive, and some standard Aloysia
citriodora commanded attention (silver Flora medal). A large collection
of exotic and native Ferns from Messrs. W. & J. Birkenhead, Sale,
Manchester, formed quite a feature in the Show, there being most of the
leading and choice varieties represented. Conspicuous amongst others
in this contribution were the beautiful Athyrium f.-f. kalothrix,
Adiantum Hodgkinsoni, Davallia fijiensis elegans, Lygodium dicho-
tomum, Adiantum tenerum roseum, Microlepia hirta cristata, Pteris
nobile, and Polystichum acrostichoides lobatum, the last-named being
a new hardy Fern (silver Flora medal) .

Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son, Victoria and Paradise Nurseries, Upper
Holloway, arranged a large oval-shaped group of foliage plants in the
centre of the hall. Amongst others in this collection were splendid
Tree Ferns and Palms 12 or 15 feet in height, Alocasias, Dracaenas,
ornamental foliage Begonias, and some fine specimens of the varie¬
gated Indiarubber Plant (Ficus elastica variegata). A few plants of
Nepenthes and Orchids in fiower were placed on pedestals, these
adding variety and attractiveness to the group (silver -gilt Flora
medal). Messrs. H. Cannell & Son had, amongst other things, a choice
collection of Cacti and succulent plants, amongst which the Prickly
Pear (Opuntia monocantha) was in fruit. Agave Victoria Regina,
Bchinocactus in variety, and numerous others. Blooms of Cactus
Dahlias were shown with the plants referred to (silver Banksian medal).
A remarkably fine group of Palms of huge size, interspersed with
Tuberoses, Dracaenas, Crotons, and Ferns was arranged by Mr.
P. McArthur, 4, Maida Vale. A plant of Cypripedium Harrisonium
superbum was noticeable in this contribution, one of the fiowers being
exceptionally fine. Other Orchids, including Oncidium crispum and
Catasetum macrocarpum were also conspicuous in the group (silver
Flora medal). Mr. A. Waterer, Knap Hill, Woking, had specimens of
the Colorado Blue Spruce (Picea pungens argentea), and one of P. p.
glauca, both varieties being very showy (bronze Banksian medal).
Messrs. Hurst & Son, 152, Houndsditch, London, sent half a dozen
plants of a new crested Golden Feather under the name of Pyrethrum
aureum cristatum, but no special award was made. W. B. Kellock,
Esq., Stamford Hill, sent two seedling Agaves named A. Leopold II. and
A. univittata marginata, for which first-class certificates were awarded.
The plants are described elsewhere.

Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, sent a basket of
Cornus brachypoda variegata, for which a first-class certificate has been
awarded. This is described below. A certificate was also adjudged for
Clerodendron trichotomum, which was likewise shown by Messrs. Veitch.
From Mr. Anthony Waterer came, in addition to the Piceas already
mentioned, a box of blooms of Spirma Anthony Waterer, and Weigela
Eva Rathke, a late flowering variety, for which a first-class certificate
was awarded. Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., secured an award of merit
for Pentstemon Cleveland!, which is described elsewhere, and a first-
class certificate for a plant of Exacum macranthum, which was figured in
the Journal for Dec. 22nd, 1892. The Rev. W. Wilks, Shirley Vicarage,
gained an award of merit for Helianthus rigidus Miss Mellish, which is
described elsewhere. Messrs. J. Peed & Sons, Roupell Park Nurseries,
sent a small group of Caladiums and some plants of the recently intro¬
duced Strobilanthes Dyeriana (silver Banksian medal). Messrs. Wallace
and Co., St. John Street, Colchester, had a number of new Liliums,
including L. Henryi, for which a first-class certificate was awarded.
This species is described and illustrated on page 191 of this issue.
Messrs. G. Paul & Sons, The Old Nurseries, Cheshunt, had a large group
of Bamboos in tubs, and some dwarf Cannas, for which a silver Flora
medal was recommended. Messrs. W. Barron & Sons, Elvaston Nursery,
Borrowash, Derby, had a large collection of foliage from ornamental
and deciduous trees (bronze Banksian medal).

Messrs. E. D. Shuttle worth & Co., Albert Nurseries, Peckham Rye,
arranged a handsome group of hardy flowers and shrubs. Amongst the
most noticeable flowers in this stand were Gladioli, Liliums, Calliopsis
lanceolata. Phlox Attraction, Helianthus grandiplenus, Helenium
autumnale, Asters (Michaelmas Daisies), and a bright collection of
show, fancy, and Cactus Dahlias (bronze Banksian medal). A very
beautiful collection of Gladioli was staged by Messrs. Kelway & Son,
Langport, Somerset, the best of which are Boston, Herkomer, Myers,
Ouless, Mills, Ellis, Sir S. Northcote, Fiducia, Mrs. Langtry, Maid of
Orleans, Marquis of Exeter, Ovide, and Mary Anderson. Gaillardias
were also very bright and showy, the best being Magenta King, Jas.
Kelway, Avail a, and Raphael. The same firm also have a box of
Dahlia serratifolia Duke of York, Pompon Dahlias Darkness, Guiding
Star, Dandy, A. F. Barron, Fashion, G. Brinckman, and Royalty. Asters
were also shown, and a varied collection of herbaceous flowers, including
Eryngium planum, Py rethrums, Solidago altissima, Cannas, and
Michaelmas Daisies (silver Banksian medal). A very beautiful collec¬
tion of hardy flowers was staged by Messrs. Barr & Son, King Street,
Covent Garden, including Lilium lannifolium, Helianthus, Pent-
stemons. Gladioli, Calliopsis, Phloxes, Colchicum byzantium, C. vare-
gatum, Violas, and summer flowering Chrysanthemums (silver Banksian
medal). A collection of hardy flowers and Dahlias was shown by

Messrs. Cutbush & Son, Highgate, in which Gladioli, Hyacinthus can-
dicans, Tritoma Uvaria, Gaillardias, Liliums, Dahlias (Pompon and
Cactus, Lobelia cardinalis, Calliopsis lanceolata grandiflora (exception¬
ally good). Anemone japonica alba were most noticeable (silver Banksian
medal). Roses were grandly shown by Messrs. Wm. Paul & Son,
Waltham Cross. Particularly good were Duke of York, White Lady,
Lorna Doone, Corinna, Pride of Waltham, Spenser, Grace Darling,
Souvenir de la Malmaison, Marie Rady, L’Iddal, Comte Henri Reignon,
Madame Lausette de Messimy, Madame Victor Verdier, Wm. ^len
Richardson, Mrs. John Laing, Polyantha Roses, Madame Pierre Cochet,
a reddish W. A. Richardson, Marie Van Houtte, Madame Hoste, La
France, Souvenir d’ Auguste Legros, Ernest Metz, G6n6ral Jacqueminot,
Ella Gordon, Homer, and Madame Alfred de Rougemont (silver Flora
medal). Mr. Reynolds, gardener to the Messrs. Rothschild, Gunnersbury
Park, Acton, staged a box of Carnation Mrs. Leopold de Rothschild, for
which he received an award of merit (see below). Messrs. Dobbie <k Co.,
Rothesay, had a very large collection of Dahlias of various types. Asters,
and Marigolds, the latter being very fine. A silver gilt Flora medal was
recommended. Mr. Eric F. Such, Maidenhead, had a collection of
Show and Fancy Dahlias (bronze Banksian medal). Mr. B. Ladhams,
Southampton, arranged a group of Ernest Ladhams perpetual flowering
Pink, for which he has received an award of merit.

There was only a light display of Orchids, and the following members
of the Orchid Committee were present to judge the exhibits : — Sir
Trevor Lawrence, Bart. (Chairman), Jas. O’Brien, T. Statter, E. Hill,
F. Sander, H. M. Pollett, H. J. Veitch, H. Ballantine, and Dr. Masters.
A beautiful table was made up of the combined contributions of Messrs.
W. L. Lewis & Co. and Sander. The former had Cattleya bicolor,
C. Gaskelliana, Cypripedium Roezli, Cyp. Bradshawianum, Brassavola
fragrans, and others tastefully displayed amongst Ferns and Grasses (a
silver Banksian medal was awarded). Messrs. Sander &; Co. received a
similar honour. They had Habenaria carnea (first-class certificate, see
below), Aerides Ballantineanum aureum (award of merit), Cypripedium
Sander-superbiens (award of merit), the beautiful Pescatorea
Klabochorum, and other choice things. T. Statter, Esq., Stand Hall,
Manchester, sent Cypripedium Edwardi (award of merit), and several
forms of Cattleya granulosa. Mr. Cookson had Cypripedium Sander-
superbiens (see page 195).

Competitive Classes. — Groups of plants and specimens were not so
well represented as might have been expected. For a group of Palms
and foliage plants to occupy a space not exceeding 800 square feet, the
first prize of £15 being presented by Messrs. E. D. Shuttle worth & Co.,
there was only one exhibitor — namely, Mr. H. B. May, Dyson Lane
Nurseries, Upper Edmonton. This contribution was tastefully arranged,
the Palms being of graceful habit, and not too thickly disposed.
Crotons, Dracsenas, Ferns of various kinds, and Ananassa sativa variegata
were conspicuous, and made a pleasing effect. In the class for a group
of flowering and foliage plants arranged for effect, to occupy a space
not exceeding 300 square ieet, Mr. J. Hudson, gardener to Messrs.
De Rothschild, Gunnersbury Park, Acton, won. The group arranged
by this exhibitor was very fine. The groundwork was composed
of Adiantums and other Ferns, from which rose Liliums, Crotons,
Ixoras, Pancratiums, Bouvardias, Vallotas, and graceful Palms. There
was only one firm exhibiting a group of Liliums in pots, this being
Messrs. Bunting & Sons, Colchester, to whom the first prize has been
awarded. The plants in this group were grandly flowered, and made
an imposing display. At the back were some fine L. auratum platy-
phyllum, then plants of the L. lancifolium type, the front consisting of
L. Batemannise and L. longiflorum. Mr. J. Nicholson, gardener to
J. W. Meller, Esq., Sewardstone Lodge, Chingford, was the only exhi¬
bitor in the class for a group of flowering and foliage plants to occupy a
space not exceeding 150 square feet. This was a creditable arrangement,
and the first prize was awarded. Palms and Crotons, the latter highly
coloured, were the features here.

Specimen plants were not numerous. For eight Crotons Messrs.
B. S. Williams & Son were the only exhibitors, and the second prize
was awarded. The plants were only medium sized but richly coloured,
especially Disraeli, Queen Victoria, Williamsi and Mutabilis. For
twelve Coleuses, distinct, Mr. J. Nicholson was the only exhibitor. The
plants were good specimens and deserved the first prize awarded. Two
competitors were forthcoming in the class for twelve stove and green¬
house Ferns, — namely, Mr. Howe, gardener to Henry Tate, Esq.,
Streatham Common, and Mr. P. McArthur, Maida Vale. The first-
named exhibitor proved victorious with fine specimens. The best
were Goniophlebium subauriculatum, Nephrolepis ensifolia, N.
exaltata, Adiantum Williamsi, Microlepia hirta cristata, and Dicksonia
antarctica. The plants shown by Mr. McArthur were good specimens.
Mr. Hudson was the only exhibitor in the class for a group of Pelar¬
goniums of any class, showing well trained specimens of the scented
leaved varieties, for which the first prize was awarded. Some of these
specimens are very fine, the best being Radula, Pheasant’s Foot, and
Quercifolium minor. No less than twenty varieties were shown by
Mr. Hudson. Mr. Howe was placed first for two large Palms, showing
Kentia Fosteriana and Seaforthia elegans of gigantic size. Messrs,

B. S. Williams & Son followed, and this firm also secured the prizes for
two large Cycads, and two Palms in pots not exceeding 10 inches, and
gained the only prize awarded for two large Tree Ferns, In many of the
classes there were no entries, as for instance, those provided for a group
of Tuberous Begonias, early Chrysanthemums, groups of China Asters,
Zonal and Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums, Cannas and Fuchsias.

Messrs. J. Cheal & Son, Lowfield Nurseries, Crawley, gained the

31, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAOtJ i/^/vzyi/Tv^c/v.

J.1^0

first prize for a collection of Dahlias arranged for eifect, with one of
the most striking exhibits in the Show. The Dahlias were arranged in
sprays of six blooms, and had between them sprays of Asparagus
plamosus, the combination being a most happy one. Amongst the
most beautiful of the Cactus section were Delicata (very fine'), Duchess
of York (good), Marchioness of Bute, Lady Primrose (very delicate),
Edith Cheal (good dark). Blushing Bride (fine), Honoria (good yellow),
and Countess of Radnor. Singles — Duchess of Fife, Miss H. Cameron,
Alba Perfecta, Mrs. Parrott, Miss Glascock, Duchess of Albany, Lady
Montefiore. Pompons — George Brinckman, Whisper (good), Isabel,
B. F. Junker, Darkness, Revenge, Tommy Keith, and Martial. Show —
Mrs. Gladstone, Mrs. Saunders, T. J. Saltmarsh, R. T. Rawlings, Prince
of Denmark, Mrs. Peter MacKenzie, Crimson King, Goldfinder, and
Theobold. The second prize was gained by Messrs. Keynes, Williams
and Co., The Nurseries, Salisbury, with a very fine stand, in which
Apollo, Bertha Mawley, Kaiserine, Countess of Radnor, Lady Penzance,
Countess of Gosford, Cactus Gloriosa, seedling (award of merit, see
below) and Daphne were the most prominent.

For sixty Show and Fancy Dahlias, in not less than thirty kinds, Mr.
John Walker, Thame, Oxon, was first. The stand was composed of
Majestic, Prince Bismarck, John Hickling, Crimson King, Colonist,
Maud Fellowes, Harry Keith, Shirley Hibberd, Mrs. David Saunders,
J. T. West, W'm. Rawlings, Henry Walton, Burgundy, Professor Fawcett,
Majestic, Arthur Ocock, T. J. Saltmarsh, John Walker, Earl of Raven-
worth, Dorothy, Mathew Campbell, Jas. Cocket, Willie Garratt, Prince
Henry, Wm. Keith, John Neville Keynes, John Standish, Dr. Moffat,
Mrs. Harris, Jas. Stephens, Harrison Weir, Wm. Powell, Prince of
Denmark, Mrs. Jefford, Mrs. Gladstone, Fred. Smith, John Henshaw,
and Constancy. The second prize was taken by Mr. S. Mortimer, Swiss
Nursery, Farnham, with some magnificent flowers. Mr. Chas. Turner,
Royal Nurseries, Slough, was a very good third. Messrs. Keynes,
Williams & Co. have been placed first for eighteen bunches of
Dahlias, staging in grand condition Apollo, Kaiserine, Baron Schroder,
St. Catherine, Blaek Prince, Lady Penzance (award of merit, see below),
Duke of Clarence, Lady Skelmersdale, Countess of Pembroke, Dawn,
Delicata, Countess of Radnor, Bertha Mawley, Countess of Gosford,
Chancellor (award of merit, see below), Miss Violet Morgan, Sir Roger,
and Lady Henry Grosvenor. Messrs. J. Cheal & Son have taken the
second prize. Their stand includes Delicata, Countess of Gosford,
Ernest Cheal (award of merit, see below), Robert Cannell (very good),
Beauty of Bynsford, and Countess of Radnor.

Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co. took the premier award for eighteen
bunches of Pompon Dahlias, distinct, ten blooms in each bunch. Crimson
'Beauty, Lady Blanche, Little Jack, Midnight, Whisper, Janet, Sovereign,
Admiration, White Aster, Isabel, Ceres, Darkness, Lselia, Grace, George
Brinckman, Bacchus, and Madge are the varieties represented in this
stand. Messrs. J. Cheal & Son were a very close second, with Mr. Chas.
Turner a good third. In this stand Mr. Turner showed Rowena, for
which he received an award of merit (see below). For eighteen bunches
of single Dahlias Messrs. J. Cheal & Son deservedly secured the
leading position with some grand blooms of Annie Hughes, The Bride,
James Scobie, Evelyn, Lowfield Beauty, Yellow Satin, Miss Glascock,
Ruth, Aurora, Amos Perry, W. C. Harvey, Duke of York, Gulielma, Lady
Whitehead, Kitty, Formosa, Victoria, and Northern Star. The second
position was occupied by Mr. E. F. Such, Maidenhead.

In the amateurs’ class for twenty-four Show and Fancy Dahlias,
W. Keith, Esq., Cornwall*, Brentwood (gardener, Mr. J. T. West) was
first. The varieties represented in this exhibit were Harry Keith,
Alice Emily, J. T. West, W. Rawlings, Dorothy, E. Britton, Edward
Sherman, George Rawlings, John Walker, Nellie Garrett, Maud
Fellowes, Arthur Rawlings, Sunbeam, R. T. Rawlings, Burgundy,
Prince of Denmark, Frank Pearce, Mrs. Gladstone, and some seedlings.
Mr. Vagg, gardener to Jas. Theobald, Esq., The Bedfords, Havering,
Romford, secured the second place, and Mr. J. Gurney Fowler, Woodford,
Essex, third. For twelve bunches of Cactus Dahlias to be competed for
by amateurs, Mr. J. T. West staged St. Catherine, Jos. Chamberlain,
Marchioness of Bath, Mary Hillier, Harry Freeman, Duke of Clarence,
Blanche Keith, Mrs. Keith, Glory of Brentwood, Kynerith, Charles
Rolfe, Robt. Maher, and gained the first prize ; Mr. J. Gurney Fowler
being second and Mr. J. Hudson, Gunnersbury House Gardens, Acton,
third. Mr. Maher, gardener to A. Waterhouse, Esq., Yattendon Court,
Newbury, received the second prize for twelve bunches of Cactus
Dahlias with good examples of Marchioness of Bute, Robert Maher,
Lady Marsham, Honoria, Panthea, Juarezi, Professor Baldwin, and
Mrs. Hawkins. This was the only exhibit in this class, and the first
prize was withheld. For twelve bunches of Pompons, Mr. J. T. West
was placed first with Eva, Fair Helen, Arthur West, Eurydice, Mary
Kirk, Achilles, Little Sweetheart, Tommy Keith, Gipsy and Winifred,
and two seedlings in magnificent condition. Mr. J. Hudson gained the
second award.

Mr. B. Ladhams, Shirley Nurseries, Southampton, gained the first
prize for a collection of herbaceous flowers, amongst which the best were
Scabiosa caucasica, Gaillardias, Centaureas, Campanulas, Eryngiums,
Perennial Phloxes, Anemone japonica, Tropaeolum speciosum, Malva
moschata alba, and Liatris Pycnostachya. Messrs. Paul k Son, the Old
Nurseries, Cheshunt, were second ; and Messrs. James Cocker & Son,
nurserymen, Aberdeen, third. Mr. G. H. Sage, gardener to the Earl of
Dysart, Ham House, Richmond, was first in the amateurs’ class for a
collection of herbaceous flowers, amongst which were Gaillardias, Statice
speciosa. Irises, perennial Phloxes, Calliopsises, and Pyrethrums. The
Rev. F. Page Roberts, Scole Rectory, Norfolk, was second ; and Miss R.

Debenham, St. Peter’s, St. Albans, third. Mr. Hudson was placed first
for twelve bunches of herbaceous flowers, and had amongst others
Rudbeckia laciniata, R. Newmanni, Helenium pumilum. Anemone
japonica alba, and Aster Shorti.

Messrs. Geo. Paul & Son secured the premier position for a collection
of twelve bunches of Phloxes in not less than nine varieties. Their
stand contained Eugene Dangaverillas, Roxelane, Caron de Ache,
Wm. Muir, Moliere, Amazon, Baccile, John Forbes, Granville, Flambeau,
Boule de Feu, and Comtesse de Castries. The second place was held
by Messrs. Harkness & Son, nurserymen, Bedale, Yorks. Messrs.
J. Burrell & Sons, Cambridge, gained the premier position for a most
beautiful collection of Gladioli, staging many fine varieties, amongst
which Cassandra, Bernice, Gertrude, and Orlanda received awards of
merit (see below). Messrs. Harkness & Son, Bedale, were second.
Messrs. G. Paul & Son were awarded the first prize for a collection of
Roses in pots and cut blooms. The flowers on the opening day were fresh
and varied, the best being Marie Van Houtte, La France, Alfred Colomb,
Beauty of Waltham, L’Ideal, and Ulrich Brunner. Messrs. J. Cocker
and Sons, Aberdeen, followed with a collection of bright flowers, Mr.
B. Mount, Canterbury, being third. Four competitors in this class.
Mr. Gibson, gardener to T. F. Burnaby Atkins, Esq., Halstead Place,
Sevenoaks, Kent, was placed first for twelve bunches of stove and green¬
house flowers, amongst which Allamandas, Anthuriums, Eucharis, and
Dipladenias were conspicuous. Mr. Howe, Park Hill, Streatham, was a
good second, the flowers in this stand being well arranged. The third
prize went to Miss R. Debenham, St. Peter’s, St. Albans. For a collection
of Sunflowers and Rudbeckias Messrs. J. Burrell <k Co., Howe House
Nurseries, Cambridge, were first ; Mr. G. H, Sage, gardener to
Earl Dysart, Ham House, Richmond, was second, and Messrs. G. Paul
and Son third. A. J. iRowberry, Esq., The Crescent, South Wood¬
ford, secured tbe silver medal presented by the London Pansy Society
for twelve sprays of Violas, and Messrs. J. Cocker & Sons, Aberdeen, the
bronze medal.

Certificates and Awards op Merit.

Aerides Ballantineanum aureum (F. Sander & Co.). — An East Indian
Aerides, noteworthy for the very rich colouring of the side lobes, which
are very much deeper than those of A. Ballantineanum, being rich
butter-yellow (award of merit).

Agave Leopold II. (W. B. Kellock, Esq.). — This is a magnificent
plant with an interesting history. It is the result of a cross between
A. Schidigera princeps and A. filifera, the latter being the pollen parent.
It was raised from seed sown about fifteen years ago, one of the parents
being much admired by Her Majesty in visiting the gardens of the
Royal Horticultural Society at South Kensington at that period, when
it was exhibited by Dr. Kellock, The plant is one of the most effective
Agaves we have seen, the spines being from 18 inches to 2 feet in length,
covered with white woolly filaments. It was named in honour of the
King of the Belgians by permission (first-class certificate).

Agave univittata marginata (W. B. Kellock, Esq.). — This is another
seedling raised by Dr. Kellock. It is the result of a cross between
A. Schidigera princeps and A. univittata. The leaves are deep green
with a distinct paler stripe down the middle, and the margins are white
and smooth, wherein it differs from A. univittata (first-class certificate).

Carnation Mrs, Leopold de Rothschild (Reynolds). — A flesh pink
variety, much after the style of Miss Joliffe, but with somewhat larger
flowers (award of merit).

Cornus hrachypoda variegata (J. Veitch & Sons). — An attractive
shrub with ornamental foliage. The centre of each leaf is pale green,
with a well-defined cream margin (first-class certificate) .

Cypripedium Edtoardi (T. Statter, Esq.). — This hybrid is the result
of a cross between C. Veitchi and C. Fairrieanum. It is a small but
attractively marked flower, with drooping wavy petals, green lined with
purple dots, and margined with purplish rose ; dorsal sepal greenish
white veined with chocolate and purplish rose (award of merit).

Cypripedium Sander-superhiens (Cookson). — A beautiful hybrid,
procured by crossing C. Sanderianum and G. superbiens, and is the
first Sanderianum hybrid yet produced. It was crossed by Captain
Vipan and raised from his seed by Mr. Cookson. The flowers are very
large, and are remarkable for the very long and drooping petals, which
are double the length of the lip. They are pale yellow in colour,
heavily blotched with chocolate, the lip brownish red, the pointed dorsal
sepal greenish white with chocolate lines (award of merit).

Clerodendron trichotomum (J. Veitch & Sons). — This is a compara¬
tively well-known hardy shrub from Japan. The foliage is large, of a
deep green colour, the flowers being white with a purplish calyx
(first-class certificate).

Dahlia Ernest Cheal (Cheal & Son).— A good Cactus variety with
broad petals of a rich crimson scarlet colour (award of merit).

Dahlia Rowena (C. Turner). — A compact Pompon-flowered variety,
the petals of which are clear yellow tipjwd and slightly flushed bright
red (award of merit).

Dahlia Mrs. Mortimer (S. Mortimer). — A good Fancy variety, clear
yellow tipped rosy lilac, fine form, quite distinct (award of merit).

Dahlia Gloriosa (Keynes, Williams & Co.). — Rich bright scarlet ;
fine flowers of the Cactus type (an award of merit).

Dahlia Lady Penzance (Keynes, Williams & Co.). — A Cactus variety
with delicate primrose yellow coloured flowers ; broad petals (award of
merit) .

Dahlia Lady Penzance (Keynes, Williams & Co.). — A fine, narrow-
petalled variety of a clear canary yellow colour (award of merit).

Exacum macranthrum (Sir Trevor Lawrence),— This is a beautiful

196

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ August 31, 1893.

plant, suitable for stove decoration, but it is by no means new. It was
figured in the Journal of Horticulture for December 22nd, 1892. The
flowers are of a bright purplish blue shade (first-class certificate).

Gladiolus Bernice (J. Burrell & Co.). — A fine spike with large
flowers of dull creamy shade, tinted pink (award of merit).

Gladiolus Cassandra (J. Burrell & Son). — This is a very fine flower,
dull white or heavily shaded yellow and pink (award of merit).

Gladiolus Gertrude (J. Burrell & Co.). — A grand variety with delicate
flowers, creamy white, tinted pale pink (award of merit).

Gladiolus Orlande (J. Burrell & Co.). — A fine variety with large deep
salmon pink flowers (award of merit).

Habenaria carnea (F. Sander & Co.). — A distinct species, much larger
than H. militaris, and of a tender rosy flesh or blush colour. It is a most
beautiful Orchid, and was much admired (first-class certificate).

HeliantJius rigidus Miss MelUsh (Rev. W. Wilks). — This is a grand
form of the well-known type. The flowers are rather large, and of a
bright golden yellow (award of merit).

Lilium Henryi (Wallace & Co.). — This beautiful Lilium is illustrated
and fully described on page 191, so it is needless to reiterate here (first-
class certificate).

Rose Duke of York (W. Paul & Son). — This is a new China Rose of
great merit. The flowers are neat in shape, medium sized, and of a rich
silvery pink shade (award of merit).

Pentstemon Clevelandi (Sir Trevor Lawrence). — A charming hardy
plant with spikes of scarlet flowers (award of merit).

Pink Brnest Ladhams (B. Ladhams). — Very fine border Pink.
Flowers pale blush, heavily fringed, blotched rich maroon at lower
part of petals (award of merit).

Weigela Eva Rathke (Anthony Waterer). — This is described as being
“ a perpetual bloomer.” The flowers are dark red, and certainly form
a novelty at this period of the year (first-class certificate).

Horticxjltttkal Buildings and Appliances.

These were fairly well shown, most of the leading firms being repre¬
sented, but the magnitude of the floral and fruit exhibits somewhat
dwarfed this portion of the Exhibition. The greenhouses, heating appli¬
ances, and stands of horticultural sundries, being arranged at one end and
along the sides of the vast hall, were perhaps not seen to the advantage
they would be were it possible to have had them in more conspicuous
positions. Noticeable amongst the glass structures were the substan¬
tially built houses of Messrs. Foster & Pearson (Limited), Beeston, Notts,
who were well represented. Here may be seen buildings fitted with every
modern improvement, also heating appliances of the best type, and fitted
with patent smoke consumers. Frames of various kinds, including the
popular three-quarter span-roof type, were also shown by this firm (silver-
gilt Flora medal). Mr. W. Cooper, the horticultural provider of the
Old Kent Road, S.E., made a splendid show of his specialties. About
a dozen greenhouses of various kinds, suitable for large or small
gardens, were exhibited, these being fitted with heating apparatus.
Poultry houses were also shown by Mr. Cooper, who had likewise a stand
of composts, fertilisers, insecticides, and general sundries for the garden.
We were unable to find the mention of any award either on the official
list supplied to us or on the exhibits for this large and useful contri¬
bution ; was it an oversight ?

Mr. G. W, Riley, Herne Hill Rustic Works, Dulwich Road, S.E.,
contributed a number of rustic summer houses of a varied type
and strong appearance (silver Banksian medal). Messrs. E. Newton
and Co., Hitchen, Herts, have a well-built greenhouse, and Messrs.
Messenger & Co. were well to the fore in that respect. This well-known
firm exhibited a large span-roofed greenhouse fitted with hot water pipes
and a propagating bed, whieh could not be other than useful in any
garden (silver-gilt Flora medal). Mr. C. Toope, Stepney Square, Stepney
Green, E., had a miniature greenhouse fitted with Toope’s patent fog
purifying and self -ventilating system. Small boilers, and oil and gas
stoves, suitable for heating small greenhouses, were also exhibited by
Mr. Toope (silver Banksian medal). Messrs. Fenlon & Son, Eldon
Street, E.C., had various heating appliances for large and small
structures, and the automatic damper was shown (silver Banksian medal).
Messrs. Sam Deards & Co. also sent apparatus for heating purposes, and
a small greenhouse “ glazed without putty, springs, lead, or packing of
any kind ” (silver Banksian medal).

Manures, insecticides, and other sundries made quite a display.
Messrs. H. & E. Albert, 17, Gracechurch Street, London, E.C., had a
stand of their pure concentrated manure which has proved so beneficial
as a fertiliser. Mr. W. Colchester, Ipswich, showed tins of Ichthemic
guano, and Messrs. Corry & Co. had a stand of garden necessaries,
including thermometer, stakes, baskets, labels, and other items. The
Stott Co., Limited, Manchester, made a good show with their useful
sprays, ^ syringes, engines, and the equally serviceable “ Killmright ”
insecticide. A large stand of manures, soils of various kinds, stakes,
labels, and other essentials for garden use was arranged by Messrs.
Wood & Sons, Wood Green, N. Mr. J. T. Anderson, 135, Commercial
Street, Shoreditch, also had a number of speciality well displayed, one
of the most important of which was a new kind of “ wood wool.” This
material is very fine and much softer than the ordinary “ wood wool,”
and might, therefore, be used for packing tender fruit and choice
flowers. Mr. J. George, 10, Victoria Street, Putney, was represented by
a stand of Thomson’s Vine and plant manure and other
garden sundries. A large collection of grasses, insecticides
and fumigating material came from Messrs. Sly, Dibble and
Co., 2, Colonial Avenue, London, S.E., and the Lawes Chemical
Co., 5, Mark Lane, E., had a stand of disinfecting fluids. Messrs.

Osman & Co., had an attractive display of material useful for
decorative purposes, and Clarke’s patent syphon oil stoves are shown
(silver Banksian medal). Other miscellaneous exhibits are plentiful, and
included a stand of fruit and vegetables and seeds from Messrs. Harrison
and Sons, Leicester. Messrs. Gayner, Banham, near Attleborough exhibited
Apples aa used for cider making, the stand forming quite a feature' in
the exhibition. The Standard Manufacturing Co., St. Alkemund’s
Churchyard, Derby, had a large number of their tree and shrub
pruners, which, judging from a practical demonstration, are of great
service. The same firm exhibit “ the standard fruit gatherer,” a useful
contrivance for reaching fruit on outside branches of high trees.
Combined with this implement is a pruner, the net for catching the
fruit being moveable (silver Flora medal) .

We were not able to obtain an official list of the prizes and awarde
made other than in the implement division, and this was apparently
incomplete ; therefore if any omissions occur further reference must
be made to them.

Events of the Week. — The principal events of horticultural
interest during the ensuing week include the annual Exhibition of
fruit, flowers, and vegetables, which is held at Sandy, Bedfordshire,
to-day (Thursday). On Friday, September 1st, the Show of the
National Dahlia Society will open at the Crystal Palace, continuing- the
following day. A three-days Exhibition of Dahlias and Gladioli
will open at the Royal Aquarium, Westminster, on Wednesday, Sep¬
tember 6th, The Agricultural Hall Show, which is reported in the
present issue, continues open until Friday night.

- The Weather in London. — For the most part fine dry

weather characterised the past week in the metropolis, although it has
been decidedly cooler, especially at night. At the time of going to press,
however, it is dull but with prospects of clearing.

- Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. — A handbill has been sent

to us announcing that the Director of the Promenade Concerts, Theatre
Royal, Covent Garden, has made arrangements to supply tickets on
liberal terms in aid of the above fund, but we have not received any
official information relating to the project.

- Mr. James Douglas. — The first Carnation and Auricula

catalogue of the well known gardener and florist of Great Gearies
reminds us that we have not made any announcement of his having
established a business at Great Bookham. He purchased land there
some time ago, and we have seen in passing a fine glass structure. His
catalogue of new and choice varieties of Carnations and Picotees and
Auriculas indicates that he has large stocks of plants for distribution.
The business address of Mr. James Douglas is Edenside, Great Bookham,
Surrey.

- Fatal Accident to Mr. W. D. Llewelyn.— The profound

sympathy of a wide circle of horticultural friends will be extended to
Sir J. T. D. Llewelyn, Bart., in the terrible loss that he has sustained
in the death of his eldest son, Mr. William D. Llewelyn, who was
found dead in Penllergare woods on Friday last. He had gone out
with his gun and fishing rod, and not having returned at a late hour
a search was instituted, when the shocking discovery was made that
he had been killed by the discharge of his weapon. Mr. William
Llewelyn was in his twenty-sixth year, and when at Oxford was
a noted cricketer. At the time of his death he was a Justice of the
Peace for the county of Glamorgan, and the melancholy circumstances of
his untimely fate are heightened by the fact that he was shortly to have
been married, and only a day or two previously had attended the
wedding of his younger brother. An inquest was held on Saturday,
when a verdict of accidental death was returned and a vote of condolence
with his relatives was passed. The tragic event has cast a gloom over
the whole neighbourhood, for there, as in the horticultural world. Sir
John Llewelyn is extremely popular.

- “Perfect” Weed Killer. — We have received from Mark

Smith, Ltd., Louth, samples of the “ Perfect ” Weed Killer, and after a
thorough test can vouch for its efficacy. This preparation is in the
form of a powder, and one of its greatest advantages is its portability
as compared with the liquids which have previously been prepared for
the same purpose.

August 31, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

197

- GtAkdening Appointment. — Mr. J. Hollingworth, Woodseat,

Uttoxeter, has been appointed gardener to Lord Tredegar, Tredegar Park,
Newport.

- Handsome Legacy, — According to a daily paper, the late

Lord Calthorpe has left by his will £700 to Mr. Thos. Jones, the head
gardener at Elvetham Park, Winchfield.

- The Bamboo Company, late of 58, St. Paul’s Churchyard,

desire us to mention that they have removed to more commodious
premises at Great Sutton Street, Clerkenwell, E.C.

- The Wakefield Paxton Society.— At the meeting of this

Society last week Mr. T. Pitts, gardener to Dr. Kendell of Walton, gave
an interesting and instructive discourse on The Pea,” illustrated by a
number of specimens of the most popular kinds, fully describing the
best methods of culture. Several members took part in a discussion of
the subject.

- The members of the Highbury Horticultural Society

made their outing to Swanley on Saturday last. After inspecting the
neighbourhood they made long inspection of Messrs. Cannell & Sons
greenhouses and seed farms. A large Wardian case containing seedling
Chrysanthemums that were shown at Sydney (New South Wales) last
April, causing much sensation there, had just arrived, and this, together
with Begonias, Brugmansia Cornucopia (The Horn of Plenty) much
interested the visitors.

- Derbyshire Horticultural Society. — We have received

a schedule and tickets for the Show, which is to be held on September 6th
and 7th, but there is no intimation where the Exhibition will be held,
but presumably in or near Derby. We note that some good prizes are
offered, including £20, £15, £10, and £5 for groups of plants, and these
should insure first-class competition. The Exhibition is to be held in
connection with the Agricultural Show, Mr. W. Bacon, Beckett Mill
Printing Works, Derby, being the manager of the horticultural depart¬
ment.

- At the annual Exhibition of the Wigtonshire Horticul¬
tural Society, held at Stranraer, the leading prizes for Roses were
won by Messrs. Thomas Smith & Sons and Mr. McMicking, head
gardener to James McDouall, Esq., of Logan, in the parish of Kirk-
maiden. A splendid specimen of Charles Lefebvre exhibited in the
Logan collection was considered absolutely perfect. Mr. McMicking
was equally successful with his Dahlias, which were remarkably fine.
The richly coloured Grapes exhibited by Mr. Day, Lord Galloway’s head
gardener, easily obtained the premier place ; while the Rev. Dr. Barty of
Kirkcolm was first as formerly with herbaceous fiowers.

- Liliums at Chelsea. — In the large show house at Mr.

Wm. Bull’s Nursery, King’s Road, Chelsea, there are at present in flower
some very beautiful Liliums. Amongst the best were a large flowered
pure white variety of the speciosum type named album novum ; L. s.
punctatum, another small pure white flowered variety with coloured
spots on the petals ; L. s. Melpomene, a very dark coloured variety
having fine flowers and an unusually broad leaf ; L. Henryi, the colour
of which is I suppose a rich apricot, the petals being sparsely speckled
with brownish crimson. This is a most attractive species with
extremely fragile looking growth?. L. Batemannae was also seen
standing out prominently amongst numerous others. — W.

- Farm Orchards. — Mr. J. Hiam writes : — “ I have read the

articles on this subject with much interest which have lately appeared
in the Journal^ and can speak as to the deplorable condition in which
many orchards are, but with the best material to renovate them running
to waste down the ditches and into the streams, the liquid from farm¬
yards. In my lectures last spring I made this a leading subject among
country audiences, including many farmers, and placed on the slides
under the microscopes spots of sewage after evaporation, in order to
bring most intelligently to their minds and eyes the great waste of
manure running away at their expense. In support of what I recom¬
mended I turned a stream of water in February from an ordinary field
ditch to irrigate a row of Apple trees. The effect has been that, in
spite of the excessive dry spring and summer, the trees have made more
growth than during the past ten years, and the fruit is quite double the
size I have ever grown of the same sorts, whereas the rule of the season
is that fruit is very small. Irrigation on well drained ground works
wonders, and the surprise is that so few appear to realise the advantages
of brooks and streams with the aid of self-acting rams and other
means.”

- Fruit Trees in Switzerland. — In Switzerland it is stated

that very stringent laws exist for the protection of fruit trees from
insects and other pests. No tree owner is allowed to treat his trees as
he chooses, but a strict watch is kept over both amateur and professional
horticulturists.

- Fruit Hawkers in Olden Times. — According to a daily

contemporary, in the sixteenth century there was a curious enactment in
England whereby street hawkers were forbidden to sell Plums and
Apples, for the reason that servants and apprentices were unable to
resist the sight of them, and were consequently tempted to steal their
employer’s money in order to enjoy the costly delicacies.

- Sudden Death op a Jersey Nurseryman. — We regret

to hear of the death of Mr. Ch. B. Saunders of Jersey, who died
suddenly from apoplexy on August 1st. Mr. Saunders was born
January 4th, 1824, and at the early age of twenty-one took over the
management of his father’s then very extensive business of a nurseryman
and fruit grower. It is reported that his business will be continued by
Mr. Becker.

- A French Pomological Congress. — We understand that

the tenth general Show and the eleventh Pomological Congress,
organised by the Pomological Association of the West of France, will
take place atVannesfrom October 17th to 22nd, The samples of fruit
destined for the Show are to be the property of the Society, and must be
sound, ripe (or almost ripe), and represent the average type of exhibited
varieties. A special exhibition of instruments, such as crushers,
grinders, presses, and stills will also be held.

- Royal Horticultural Society’s Journal. — We have

received a copy of part 1, vol. xvi., of the Journal of the Royal
Horticultural Society. This forms a neat book of upwards of 300 pages,
and contains much useful information. The papers that have been
read at the meetings held during the first half of the present year are
included, and these alone are worthy of perusal. Extracts from the
proceedings of the Society are also given, and the whole of the awards
made during the above-mentioned period are enumerated. Many of the
new and rare plants are illustrated. The price of the work to
non-Fellows is 5s.

- The Potato Crop in Jersey. — This is the second year in

succession the Jersey Potato crop has been unsatisfactory, the price
made per ton for those exported having been a little less than £5,
against an averaged value for eleven years of rather over £6. The
crop is about 11,000 tons less than in 1892. It is stated that the
earliest consignments only made £20 per ton this year against £52 last
year, while the latter ones made £3 lOs. per ton against £2 33. 4d. last
year. The total amount received for the crop this year is no less than
£160,275 83. 4d, less than for the good crop of 1891, in which year no
Potatoes were sold at less than £5 per ton.

- Sparrows Again, — The sparrows have undoubtedly many

sins to answer for from a gardener’s and farmer’s point of view, but I
can speak from many years’ close observations that they are particu¬
larly fond of the Oak leaf-rolling caterpillars, the chrysalids, and the
moths. Neither are they the only helpers the rooks have in clearing
Oaks, for starlings, the tit tribe, and in the mature state swallows and
martins, darting hither and thither among the branches, take the moths,
and help in the general destruction. Sparrows undoubtedly take much
insect food when they have young, I once put a brood in a cage, and
the old birds brought a large number of cockchafers and pushed them
between the wires, but the young birds dropped them in the bottom of
the cage, not being able to feed themselves. — J. Hiam.

- White Antirrhinums, — Why does "T. S.” (page 172)

refer to the variety in bloom with him as “ Iggulden’s ? ” It would
be as correct for me to refer to the white Snapdragon which blooms
so beautifully at Swanmore Park as “ Molyneux’s.” The fact is the
variety is found in all directions, and though I have never seen it
anywhere in such profusion or more beautiful than at Swanmore,
yet it is to be found in many gardens. It is very much more to
the point to find that such striking effects can be obtained from
Antirrhinums. There are plenty of other self-coloured forms that
would answer equally well if grown from cuttings, as this white variety
is, I had a splendid rich crimson with a white throat at Bedfont,
named Brilliant, that I have not seen excelled for effectiveness and
would make a beautiful bedder ; for this purpose striking self colours
are best. — A. D.

198

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

31, 1893,

- Death of Mb. Thomas Dobson.— It is with regret that I

haye to announce the death of Mr. Thomas Dobson, which took place
on 22nd inst. He was for over thirty years head gardener to Sir
Hedworth Williamson, Bait., at Whitburn, near Sunderland, and was
deservedly and highly respected amongst his brother gardeners. He
had lately been pensioned off by Sir Hedworth, and but recently, during
the inspection of a neighbouring gentleman’s greenhouse, he fell and
injured his head, from which effects he never recovered, and there is
no doubt the sad occurrence hastened his death. He was interred
Thursday last at Harton. Amongst the mourners were Sir Hedworth
Williamson and the principal servants of his estate. — Bebnaed
Cowan, F.R.H.S.

- Field Voles. — I have been much interested from time to

time in watching the doings of the Board of Agriculture in respect to
diminishing the plague of voles in Scotland, and quite agree with the
remarks on page 138 as to the use of owls, kestrels, and weasels as useful
destroyers of these pests, from what I have observed. Owls and kestrels
ought to be not only encouraged instead of destroyed, but to have homes
placed in convenient places to breed and roost in, and so accumulate. I
have had both in my homes placed in the trees in the fields. Voles are
fond of fruits and vegetables. I catch them with baited traps with
Apple, but this would involve too much expense to carry out on a large
scale probably. Still, when it comes to a matter of reducing the value
of land to such an extent, the best and cheapest way to restore its value
is the consideration. — J. Hiam.

- NemesiA Stedmosa Suttoni. — “ R. P. R.” writes “ This

annual, sent out by Messrs. Sutton & Sons, bids fair to become a popular
plant. Although not one of the best of seasons in which to try a new
introduction, this charming plant has stood the test well. There is a
strange. fascination about the flowers which is rather diflScult to describe,
some I have seen being of a rich orange, pale yellow, beautiful shades
of ochre, the throat being quaintly blotched with black and yellow. If
seed is sown about the middle of March in gentle heat, and the seed¬
lings transplanted when the danger from spring frost is over, the plants
will branch out freely. This last season being so dry the plants have
reached a little more than a foot in height, and I should fancy 18 inches
would be the limit. Dwarfer plants may be produced by pinching
out the leading point of the plants when well established after trans¬
planting.”

- Feuit in NoethumbeelAND. — A northern daily contemporary

remarks that a very boisterous south-west wind made havoc amongst
the fruit trees in the orchards and market gardens in the Hexham
district last week. The mischief was worst amongst those trees which
bear fruit of the largest size. Some Apple trees which bear only a
limited number of fruit, but of a large and superior size, were almost
stripped, while trees bearing a smaller class of fruit only lost, compara¬
tively speaking, a small percentage of their yield. Pears, particularly
of the Hessle variety, were an abundant crop. One tree, growing on the
bank of the Hextol stream, had to have its branches propped up, so
heavily were they laden. The wind stripped the Pear trees of a good
percentage of their fruit. The Plum trees did not suffer anything like
so severely, the trees being smaller, and not so much exposed to the
violence of the wind.

- The Weathek and the Ceops. — Mr. P. Davison, The

Gardens, Iwerne House, Blandford, observes : — The summer of 1893
will long be remembered in the annals of horticulture for its excessive
drought and heat. The spring months, with few exceptions, were mild,
and brought forth an early and abundant show of fruit blossom of all
kinds. During its expansion and setting we had three frosty nights in
succession, varying in intensity from 9° to 12°, which left its indelible
marks on the embryo fruit, and is now apparent in blotches, blister, and
deformed Apples and Pears. Still, we have abundant crops of the two
latter, and also all kinds of fruit, including Strawberries and bush fruit.
The latter were small, and wanting in juice and flavour. The drought
was most severely felt in the months of April, May, and nearly all June.
Lawns and pasture'fields were brown and bare. It was only by dint of
mulching and incessant waterings that we could keep our young plants
alive in the kitchen garden and in the flower beds. Vegetables suffered
severely — Peas nearly a failure, while Lettuce and Spinach ran to seed,
and Turnips were dry and stringy and bitter in taste. Rain came
moderately at the end of June, and in July a large quantity fell and
gave vegetation a new life. We are now having a plentiful supply of
vegetables, such as Autumn Giant Cauliflower, Vegetable Marrows,
Beans, dwarf and running. Cabbages have been terribly infested by

the caterpillars. The temperature during the present month has been
exceedingly high. At noon, on the 16th and 17th inst., the thermometes
indicated 95° in the open. Late Peas, such as British Queen, Egyptian.
Marrow, &c , are eaten up by mildew. Wasps, and all insect pests, have
been unusually numerous and troublesome this year. Potatoes are a
splendid crop of good medium size and excellent flavour, and so far are
nearly free from disease.

- A Fuchsia Show. — A western contemporary remarks that

at Bristol the grounds presented an exceptionally attractive appearance
at the Zoological Society, Bristol, when the Fuchsia Show was held
recently. The plants were attractively set out in a large marquee erected
on the lawn, the effectiveness of the display being enhanced by the
judicious use of Palms and Ferns. There were altogether 160 Fuchsia
plants exhibited, and Mr. Harris, the Society’s head gardener, may well
be proud of the fine show they made. Possibly owing to the fierce
heat experienced of late, the collection would have looked a little better
a month ago, but the sight of the Fuchsias, over-fruitful in their rich
clusters of pendulous bloom, was one not to be missed by admirers of
flowers. Altogether 109 distinct varieties were represented. Seedlings
looked extremely well, and formed an important feature of the
Exhibition.

- Dahlias at Rowledge. — That Mr. Mortimer should, in the

first London competition for Show Dahlias, have exhibited such beautiful
blooms as he did at Earl’s Court, winning the prize easily from older
competitors, is all the more remarkable when it is remembered that the
soil in which his Dahlias are growing was but a few years ago a piece
of poor, starved shallow heath or common ; so poor, indeed, that it
would have seemed dear at lOs. per acre. Even now, close by, there is
land that wears just the same starved hungry appearance, and which no
one would for one moment think could hardly grow a Potato, much lest
a Dahlia. The result, as seen with the Dahlias, shows what can be done
in converting a barren heath into living productive soil. Here it is as
dissimilar from what is found at Slough, Salisbury, and Thame, as chalk
is from cheese. It is therefore all the more to the credit of Mr. Mortimer
that in such a dry season as the present has been he should have done
so well.

- CuEious Judgments. — If we did not know that Mr. Petti¬
grew did not pose as a wag, we might have imagined that he had been,
joking over the oddities of the judges at Cardiff, whose acts he criticises.
How on earth was it possible for judges to read the term “ exotic ” as
they did ? If they will turn to their dictionaries they will find the
term signifies “foreign” — that is to say, any plant introduced here
from other countries is an exotic, or, in other words, is not indigenous
to Great Britain. Mr. Pettigrew intimates that the term exotic, without
any explanatory prefix, was employed. Then, of course, every imported
plant was inadmissible. Why will committees make such errors in com¬
piling their schedules, and judges do such odd things ? The placing of
Roses and Hydrangeas amongst hardy herbaceous perennials is indeed
another oddity. How Mr. W. Marshall would have revelled in the
consequent disqualification. — D.

- Flowebs in a Cemeteby. — South Shields possesses parks,

the beauties of which are greatly admired ; but it can also boast of
another floral display of a most attractive kind. The latter, however,
is not in a pleasure ground, but in a cemetery. In connection with
their new place, near Harton, the South Shields and Westoe Burial
Board have adopted a policy from the first of making it as cheerful and
pleasant-looking as possible. Mr. Bernard Cowan, F.R.H.S., the Super¬
intendent, during the present summer has been most successful in this
respect, and the ground under his control will well repay a visit from
all admirers of fair Flora. The cemetery, says the “ Newcastle Daily
Journal,” has been laid out so as to hide the graves from public view as
much as possible, and on first entering the place it is diflScult to imagine
that it possesses any sombre aspect at all. On the other hand it has
all the characteristics of a fine ornamental garden. Some skilfully
worked-out designs in carpet bedding attract attention at the entrance,
while further on the borders of the main roads are simply charming.
Some of these are arranged in circular and oblong flower beds cut out
of the green turf, and present a most tasteful arrangement of colours.
Others, fully occupied with herbaceous plants, are ablaze with bloom of
great variety of colour and form, while yet another has a magnificent
display of Carnations in full flower. The trees and shrubs which
surround the grave spaces have grown rapidly, and their thick foliage
sets off splendidly the floral display. Altogether, the cemetery presents
a most charming appearance, and reflects high credit on its Super¬
intendent.

August 31, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

199

HA.LTON.

Half hidden amongst the trees with which the Chiltern Hills are
covered lies the rural village of Halton, which claims as a resident one
of the greatest financiers of the day — Mr. Alfred de Kothschild. His
estate, which covers an enormous area, is, perhaps, one of the most
beautiful in this country, the gardens being models from which
anyone might easily learn a lesson. Cleanliness predominates over all,
from the stately mansion of Bath stone down to the humble potting
shed. An invitation to go and have a look “ all over the place ” was
accepted with alacrity, but with a very faint idea what those few words

got to the top of one of the Chiltern Hills, from whence the panorama
presented before our eyes was one of surpassing beauty. Down in the
valleys lay the fertile vale of Aylesbury, with the stately home of the
Earl of Rosebery showing amongst the trees, and away beyond on
another high hill could be seen Waddesden Manor, the home of Baron
Ferdinand de Rothschild. Truly we were in the country of the Roth¬
schilds ; on every side the land for miles belonged to some one of this
wealthy family, who are so highly respected by their poorer neighbours,
to whose comfort and well-being they are so truly solicitous. A little
further on and we come upon a veritable plateau on the top of a hill,
not a natural one be it understood, but one which Mr. de Rothschilcl

Fig. 29.— souvenir DE LA MALMAISON CARNATIONS AT HALTON.

meant on a summers day with the thermometer registering well into
the nineties, and that in the shade. However, notwithstanding the
heat, I spent one of the most enjoyable and instructive days I have ever
had during my life. I will endeavour to recall for the benefit of those
readers of the Journal who are unable to visit Halton some of the points
which appeared to me to be of more than passing interest or of unusual
beauty.

To ensure myself a good long day I left London by the 9.16 a.m.
train and reached Tring punctually at half-past ten, where I found
Mr. Sanders, the genial and talented gardener, waiting to take me under
his wing. From the station we drove through the town of Tring, past
Lord Rothschild’s beautiful demesne, through the country for about four
miles, until we came to one of the entrances of the Halton estate. ^ In¬
stead of going direct to the gardens we went round and round until we

had formed more, so far as I could see, to give work to some of the
labourers about than for any advantages that could possibly accrue to
him from it. Facing this stands a very beautiful chalet, which has been
erected as a resting place for players in the American bowling alley
to which it is attached. It is indeed a charming spot, the views from
both back and front being almost incomparable, at least to those who
love English scenery.

From thence we drove down grass drives through shady woods of
Beech trees, between which could be caught at intervals glimpses of
the mansion lying far away down in the valley below. Through one
of these vistas was opened a view of the flower gardens, and the picture
was a perfect one, worthy of being reproduced on canvas by any of
our most celebrated artists. During the drive down the hills several
rustic summer houses were passed. These erections, I was surprised to

200

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 31, 1893.

see, were, though, rustic outside, not by any means so in, the floors
being thickly carpeted, and comfortable looking chairs standing
about, adding an air of cosiness to them which is all too often con¬
spicuous by its absence in these useful and ornamental additions to a
garden. A long drive through the park brought us to the kitchen and
fruit gardens, which are situated rather over a mile from the mansion
and flower gardens. It is in this part of the estate that Mr. Sanders’
pleasant house is situated, almost hidden under some old Beech trees,
and close beside an orchard which has been but very recently planted.
Here we stayed and had a thoroughly good rest, took some substantial
refreshment for the welfare of the body, and then away we started to
walk through the park to the flower gardens, which are unusually
extensive.

The gardens round the mansion are composed of lawns and flower
beds, all of which are kept scrupulously clean, and have been during the
past summer heavily watered, which, as evidenced by the bright and
robust condition of the plants, has had a most beneficial effect. The
terrace beds are filled with tuberous and fibrous-rooted Begonias,
Fuchsias, and Zonal Pelargoniums, all the varieties planted being
conspicuous for their bright colours. The Begonias have not flowered so
freely as is customary, the soil, which is of a very chalky nature, not
having held enough moisture to insure the utmost floriferousness.
There were, however, two strikingly notable exceptions to this, and they
both belonged to the fibrous-rooted section ; one was B, Worthiana, and
the other B. fioribunda rosea, the former being covered with its bright
orange-coloured blossoms, and the latter forming a perfect mass of rosy
pink. Down the centre walk from the garden entrance to the house
beds and vases on each side look very bright, and at the end is a large
circular fountain, round the back of which is a bright border containing
Eucalyptus globulus (Blue Gum), Castor Oil Plants, Palma, Gannas,
Nicotiana affinis. Marguerites, and Zonal Pelargonium John Gibbons. On
each side of this fountain, partially hidden in the background of bushes,
is a powerful electric light, with the reflectors fixed to shine directly on
the centre ornament. The pedestals on which the vases are stood in
the walk are made so that the lower portion swings back, and in each
is found an electric light ; this throws its light straight down the walk
towards the fountain, and the effect thus produced when the lights are
burning is, said Mr. Sanders, truly magnificent. The beds, vases, and
fountains with their occupants are as clearly seen by this artificial
light by night as they are by day under the natural rays of the sun.
These vases are filled with Begonias and various other plants, amongst
the best being those occupied by double white and pink Zonal Pelar¬
goniums, which are flowering with exceptional freedom.

We next visited the Italian garden, where a most emphatic change
greets the eye. The centre is a lawn with one large centre bed, and the
sides are of trellis, up which Ivy has been trained. Niches have been
made in which statues are placed, and at the extreme end is a large
summer house, over which Roses are being trained. The bed in the
middle of this garden is a large one filled with Lilium longiflorum,
L. tigrinum splendens, yellow Marguerites, and some excellent Fuchsias.
This Italian garden is one of the most novel features of the estate, and
for lovers of the uncommon certainly one of the most attractive. For
my own part, however, I prefer the style so well portrayed in what is
known as the German garden, where the beds are formed of large masses
of a few different plants, planted in a manner which needs an inspection
to be understood, as for me, at any rate, it is practically indescribable.
Dark and light-foliaged Gannas are in this style of planting seen to
advantage, as also are the Begonias, amongst which Acacia lophautha
has been planted, Gentaurea Glementei, and Abutilons. The Indian
garden represents an entirely different mode of planting, the pre¬
dominating features throughout being handsome Palms and Dracaenas
of all sizes. These might be termed the background, but flowers of
various sorts were used to form attractive beds and borders. A tent is
erected in the Indian style in this garden, and forms an unusual feature
in a flower garden, being furnished in a really luxurious manner.
Stands are fixed in here, as in almost all the other structures on the
estate in which flowers and plants may be placed, and these, it is
needless to say are effective. An unique attraction on one of the
lawns is a huge wicker basket filled with plants of different kinds. It
is of immense size, measuring about 14 feet across and standing upwards
of 5 feet high, the cross handle, of course, rising much higher than this.
I was much struck with the beauty of this ornament, and have never
before seen such a thing. The basket is lined with turves, grass side
outwards, and in this is placed a casing, which carries the weight of the
soil. The centre was bright with Lilium longiflorum and L. tigrinum
splendens, grand Hydrangeas, Petunias, and Tropmolums, the latter
being allowed to hang in festoons over the sides. The gardens surround¬
ing an ornamental lake, which has been formed mainly to provide
skating during the winter months, are very charmingly laid out.
Liliums and Zonal Pelargoniums are largely utilised here, as also are
shrubs of various kinds and of all sizes.

The kitchen and fruit gardens are also admirably kept, but the latter
is completely overrun with wasps this season, and to such an extent do
they carry their depredations that Mr. Sanders has found it absolutely
necessary to have all the Pears gathered before they were nearly ripe, as
they were all being rapidly destroyed. At the end of the garden runs
an arm of the Grand Junction Ganal, and in the banks of this the wasps
make their homes, which are unfortunately rather difficult of access for
the men to destroy them. Gyanide of potassium is, however, being
used with fatal effects to many hundreds of the pests daily. All the
small fruits have been gathered, but the trees and bushes bear the

unmistakeable stamp of being in good hands. A number of the Apple
trees have been covered with hexagon netting to keep out the wasps,
but if they are as precocious as those referred to by a Sussex corre¬
spondent at page 176 of your last issue this precaution will be of little
use. All the best varieties of Apples are grown, and particularly notice¬
able were some trees of Oox’g Orange Pippin, King of the Pippins, and
Wellington, which were carrying crops of magnificent fruits. Straw¬
berries are forced in very large numbers, and preparations are now in
an advanced stage for supplying an abundance of fruits during the
coming season. In the houses the same difficulty with the wasps has to
be contended with, though not to quite such a large extent. Several
vineries and Peach houses have been cleared of their fruit, as also have
some Fig trees, for which there is a large demand. Notwithstanding
the fruit that has been gathered, there is still abundance ripe and ripen¬
ing, more especially amongst the Grapes.

The houses devoted to plants are completely filled with those suit¬
able for furnishing the mansion and summer houses, Galadiums,
Grotons, Dracmnas, Anthuriums representing the largest stocks.
Maidenhair Ferns are not largely grown in pots, though some are of
course so cultivated, but the fronds when required are taken from the
end wall of one of the vineries on which plants have been secured by
the aid of a wire trellis. This, as will be readily admitted, besides
supplying innumerable fronds, forms a most pleasing and at the same
time novel appearance. Unfortunately my visit was too late for me to
see the Souvenir de la Malmaison Garnations in their best condition,
but some idea may be gained on referring to the illustration (fig. 29),
which has been reproduced from a photograph, of the great beauty of
the plants and the striking success of the mode of culture to which they
are subjected. So grand are the plants and the few individual blooms
which remained, that 1 asked Mr. Sanders to favour me with details of
his mode of procedure, and he gives it as follows : —

“ The house of Souvenir de la Malmaison Garnations in the photo¬
graph contains about 700 plants of the fleshy white and pink varieties,
which, with the striped Lady Middleton, are the only three that can
claim to be true types of that now popular flower. Their culture being
generally well known by all who take an interest in Garnations, there is
perhaps nothing new in our method of treating them. Layering, in
preference to cuttings, is done in frames in July as soon as the plants
are ready, shading them for a week or two until they commence to make
fresh roots, when they are gradually hardened and exposed to the
weather by removing the lights altogether. When well rooted the
young plants are lifted and put in 48-size pots, using good loam, leaf
mould, and sand. When well established in the soil they are again
shifted into 32’s, a little well decayed manure being used this time and
at all succeeding pottings. No more shifts are given them during
November, December, and January, when growth is naturally slow and
root extension is not required. Watering is at that period very care¬
fully done, and a dry atmosphere is maintained, with an even night
temperature of 45° to 60°, and the plants being kept well up to the
light.

“ When the days begin to lengthen and the sun to regain its power
the plants soon make new growth. Another potting is then given,
which carries them through their flowering period, during which they
are benefited by liberal treatment in the way of liquid manure water¬
ings, and an occasional application of Glay’s fertiliser. Soot, too, is an
important factor in producing that deep leek-green foliage, indicating
perfect health. One flower stem each is all to be expected the first
flowering, but the plants are at the same time making side shoots close
down to the soil. These shoots soon form a perfect cluster of growth,
ensuring a good harvest of flowers the following year. After flowering,
during which time shading is necessary, the plants are gradually
exposed and stood outdoors for a week or two before being finally
repotted, this time in 10 or 11-inch pots, to allow the soil to be
worked well around the loosened balls with their mass of roots. The
plants are shaded and syringed a little to establish them in their new
quarters. They soon grow into good bushes, with from eight to sixteen
strong growths, the earliest of which flower during the winter and early
spring. A little higher temperature is given to the earliest plants, 55°
at night, which materially assists the development of the flowers. The
wealth of bloom is not looked for until May and J une, when the same
liberal treatment is resorted to until the plants have done flowering.
The plants represented in the engraving are two years old. To have an
abundance of flowers it is necessary to raise plants every year from the
two-year-old plants after flowering, there being no advantage in keeping
them longer, unless extra size specimens are required. They at no time
want coddling, and like plenty of light and air on all favourable occa¬
sions, shading only after potting and when in flower. No plant repays the
cultivator better for liberal treatment when the blooms are developing,
and flowers 4, 5, and even 6 inches across are the result.

“Like all other plants Garnations have their enemies, and a perpetual
war is always raging to keep them under. Green fly is very persistent,
and frequent fumigations are necessary to dislodge the pest. Red spider
during hot dry weather is a still worse enemy ; dipping or syringing with
insecticides being resorted to to clear the plants of them, or sickly yellow
foliage soon follows. But worst of all is the brown fungi, which infests the
plants during the winter, for which I know no absolute cure. We keep
it under by continually going over the plants and rubbing it off with a
dull pointed stick, using a mixture of water, softsoap, and sulphur,
which kills the spores when dislodged. While there is really no cure,
I believe there is a preventive, which lies in the management of the
plants during late summer and autumn, growing them well exposed to

August 31, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

201

the sun, which hardens every particle of growth, and avoiding a moist
muggy atmosphere ; but as we are situated on a level with a branch of
the Grand Junction Canal we cannot well control the latter as much as
we should like.”— H. J. W.

WASPS.

The season proves exceptionally favourable for the development of
wasps’ nests, and many hornets have made their appearance once
more after an absence of many years. There is a mistake on page 126
copied from a contemporary, in supposing that wasps “ develop from
eggs in a single night,” as it takes weeks to pass through the various
stages of transformation. The probability is that the wasps mentioned
were of the species Vespa norwegica, and when taken at this season of
the year, or a fortnight earlier, the workers naturally become inactive,
although still inside the nest, as I have frequently noticed. The extra
warmth and the disturbance of the nest by bringing into a dwelling
would induce activity.

About a fortnight ago I cut one of these species of nest out of a
Hawthorn bush for a farmer, and as it was a very good specimen it was
intended to be placed in a glass case as an ornament. Before doing so I
took the precaution to place the nest in a tolerably hot oven all night,
in order to kill all the wasps inside, and dry any larvae which might still
exist in the combs. I also have an excellent specimen nest I cut out of
a Holly tree while the wasps were in full vigour in working. My
method of procedure is to first drive inside any wasps building or pro¬
tecting the nest by syringing with cold water, as a shower, gently, and
then very carefully release the nest from all sprays except the main
bough by which, it is suspended, with pruning scissors, and hold the
main branch firmly, to prevent falling when cutting off. — J. HlAM,
Astioood Banli,

ANTI-BLIGHT POWDERS.

What I may be doing is of very little consequence to anybody I
surmise, but before my experimental Potato plots, whereon 1 have
applied the anti-blight powders this year, arrive at their sere and yellow
leaves, I feel that I should like you to see specimens representing the
present appearance of their foliage. No. 1 represents leaves upon which
I have applied a new powder that Messrs. Tate & Buchanan describe as
“ Agricultural ” anti-blight, distinctive from theij “ Horticultural ”
powder, which has been three years in distribution. The Agricultural
is a much cheaper production, and more palpably lasting upon the
foliage, as you may observe. We have had severe winds and heavy rains
since I applied it, the (with the fear of Mr. Abbey before my eyes as I
write it) Phytophthora infesfans spores would find it a great difficulty
to enter the stomata through the above cuticle protective. Mr. Barron
and Mr. Barr well know that I do not care a brass farthing about the
under sides of the leaves, though I would not answer for the disease
spreading if it gained a bed before the application.

I begin my dressings with the powder from the youth up of the
haulm, at least, that is to say, I have done so with the “ Horticultural ”
anti. The early frost came last year just as Mr. Barr sent me a supply
and effectually put a stop to my powderings, so I have been using that
reserve this season till I obtained the new “Agricultural” as I would
presumably have done gold dust. Nos. 2 and 3 foliage have been
dressed entirely with the “ Horticultural ” compound which do not
maintain itself so distinctly upon any foliage, but the beautiful glaze
and greenery it evolves makes it far preferable for greenhouse work, and
with me it is quite effective in preventing the Potato disease. No
mildew or vermin can ever become established on the haulm when dressed
judiciously with powder. I send you also a first main leaf from one
of my Tomato plants, which have now eight ripe and fourteen unripe
fruit upon it. In practice I foreshorten the principal leaves to prevent
crowding as the plants grow with single stems about 15 inches apart and
4 to 5 feet high, they are now a beautiful sight ; we have Tomatoes
galore, and between ourselves fried bacon and Tomatoes do not make
a bad dish.

In passing Major Thoyt’s lodge gate the other evening, I said to the
occupant, “ Good evening Pullen, how are the taties ? ” “Bad, bad.” “Why
you don’t mean to say they are diseased ? ” “ Just look across the garden

there, they are gone quite black.” Sure enough they were, and I see in
another neighbour’s garden next to me, he has cut off all his tops. Now
if my neighbour’s Potatoes are so diseased why should mine be left for
four consecutive years 1 I will say no more, let those speak who have
not borne the burthen and heat of the day.

As to fruit, my Gladstone and Irish Peach Apples were failures,
plenty of Keswick Codlins, and my Pay the Rents and Wellingtons
would break themselves down if they were not propped. Pears are
good with me, or rather were, but the wasps necessitated my gathering
them before they were ripe. Perry is the consequence, and cider will
soon prove so with the Apples in part, and I regret to say so with Cox’s
Orange Pippin, of which I have a full crop. Of small fruits the
missus’s jam shelves are full, and so are my wine barrels. I never had a
more bountiful supply of small fruits, but then, you know, I tapped one
of the finest and unfailing springs when I first came here ; and as Beau
Brummel was said to say “ Cravats made the man,” I say water made
my fruit. — Robert FeNjS^.

[The specimens were withered when examined. We hear, however,
of a projected pilgrimage to Sulhamstead, when the plants can be
examined, and the overflowing stores of the veteran and his “ missus ”
somewhat diminished.]

National Rose Society.

It is with fear and trembling that I take up my pen to reply to
Mr. Grahame, for it appears that in taking any notice whatever of his
semi-official-looking circular we Secretaries committed, at all events in
his opinion, a great blunder. For this unpardonable offence he tells us
we “ must take the consequences of the subject being discussed in the
gardening Press.” I suppose it is useless pleading that even such a
fearful crime as simply trying to amend Mr. Grahame’s circular cannot
justly warrant so dreadful an exposure as that with which the Com¬
mittee is now threatened. However, the deed is done, and the conse¬
quences must be faced as best they may.

In such straits one is apt to catch at any straw which happens to
float by at the time. I am, therefore, wondering whether there is any
slight consolation to be found in the thought that there is probably not
a single society in the kingdom the management of which would
altogether please so exacting a critic as Mr. Grahame. Again, but I
suppose I must be wrong, I have hitherto been under the foolish impres¬
sion that there is scarcely any other horticultural society which possesses
so spotless a record of the past, or whose affairs would bear as searching
an examination as our beloved National Rose Society. — E. M., Berk-
Tiavisted.

Notes About Roses.

I FEAR that I must have been misunderstood in what I said about
Ernest Metz. I never meant to imply that it was not a most beautiful
Rose when caught, but I did doubt its constancy upon this ground that
special prizes have been offered for it at the Crystal the last three years,
that in 1891 and 1892 there was no competition, and that this year,
which was considered to be an especially favourable one for it, only the
two great Colchester firms competed, and yet I know that several
amateurs went in largely for it, and intended to compete, but could not.
Perhaps another season may prove more favourable.

I note that your correspondent, Mr. Williamson, (page 170) expatiated
on the satisfaction that Tea Roses had given him ; he singles out a few
by name, but curiously enough, three of them are not Teas. L’Ideal is a
Noisette, as he will see it marked in the Rose Society’s catalogue, while
Gustave Regis and Cheshunt Hybrid are only Hybrid Teas. The latter
have been long placed among the Hybrid Perpetuals, but is now
transferred to the special class of Hybrid Teas.

A correspondent in one of your contemporaries made the statement
that Louis Van Houtte was a sport from Charles Lefebvre. This was
so new to me, and seemed so little credible, that I ventured to ask on
what authority it was based. To this, as far as I can see, no reply has
been given. Are any of your readers able to say whether they have
heard this statement or not ?

Whatever may have been the disappointment experienced by
rosarians this year, they have had some compensation in the wealth of
autumn bloom, not only in the Teas but in the Hybrid Perpetuals ; the
former especially have been a marvel of beauty.

While writing on the subject of Roses I would mention a matter on
which I feel a little sore. I have just received from the Treasurer of
the N.R.S. a list of those members who have not paid their subscriptions ;
this, I am sorry to say, amounts to ninety-five, or about one-sixth of
the whole, and amongst these are to be found members of our Committee
and many of our exhibitors. As a special circular was addressed to our
members to ask them not to give this additional trouble, and that the
plan of deducting their subscriptions from their prize money would not
be allowed, I think, to say the least, it is very inconsiderate, and
should this meet the eye of any of those alluded to I hope they will
make no delay in sending in their subscriptions either to the Treasurer
or to one of the Secretaries. — D., Deal.

CONTINUATION SCHOOL GARDENS.

A NOTE relating to the discovery of recently established school
gardens in Lincolnshire having gone the rounds of the Press under the
heading of a “ Novel Idea,” the following letter on the subject appeared
in a recent issue of “ The Standard.”

“In reference to the ‘novel idea’ of boys’ gardens in connection with
schools, as announced in “The Standard” of the 14th inst., as well as in
other journals, may I, as ‘ Horticultural Instructor,’ acting under the
directions of the Technical Education Committee of the Surrey County
Council, briefly describe what is being done in the county mentioned in
teaching practical gardening to youths in several villages ? _

“ Small gardens in close connection with schools, it may be said, is
by no means a novel idea. I remember, many years ago, observing plots
of ground attached to the schools at Rangemore, supported by Lord
Burton, and quite recently I have had the opportunity of inspecting
school gardens at Hale, near Farnham, where plots of ground have long
been provided both for boys and girls, the former for the cultivation of
vegetables, the latter for flowers. These gardens have been established
for about twelve years, and Mr. E. Cmsar, the schoolmaster, who is a

202

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 31, 1893.

successful amateur gardener, has had pleasure in teaching those of his
pupils who desired to learn what they could of gardening to cultivate
these plots. They have always been in great demand, and most of them
have ^en very well managed indeed.

“ Recognising the value of teaching practical horticulture in con¬
nection with schools, the Surrey County Council first provided a series of
lectures on gardening for schoolmasters and pupil teachers ; then plots
of ground were obtained in villages to be worked by the older boys
attending school, as well as others who have ceased attending, and who
are engaged in various occupations in the parishes. The first of these
small gardens — twenty-four — were formed at Banstead, on land kindly
provided by Mr. Robertson Rodger, C.C. The plots of 1 rod each have
been worked by the boys for two seasons, under the superintendence of
local gardeners. Vegetables of approved varieties are grown, also a few
flowers by those who desire to have them, while a plot of 4 rods is set
apart for affording lessons in the cultivation of hardy fruits. These
miniature vegetable gardens have been admirably cropped and cultivated.
They are at this moment full of useful produce, and are neat, clean, and
orderly — cherished by the tillers and their parents alike.

“ Similar groups of gardens are established at Ashtead, Fetcham,
Hersham, Effingham, Clandon, Bookham, Horley, and Hale. It is my
duty to inspect these plots periodically, gi ve instructions, take note of
the different crops and estimate their merits, which are represented in
points, those boys who win the most by their diligence and aptitude
being the recipients of prizes proportionate with the merit displayed.
The Hale County Council Gardens have been quite recently examined,
and it would be extremely difficult to find a weed in sixteen out of
eighteen of them, while the crops are as good as could be expected
during the season of drought on an extremely porous and gravelly soil.
These plots are, in fact, as well cared for, as clean, and as creditable as
are any gentlemen’s gardens in the district, and they have been admired
by many visitors. It is not suggested that they excel the groups in
other villages still to be inspected, and where the crops ought
to be, and no doubt are, better, in the better soil. They are mentioned
as showing that the best has been done that could be done under the
circumstances, while a previously barren square of land has been ren¬
dered distinctly useful, the boys in the meantime gaining knowledge
which can scarcely fail to be of service to them in after life.

“ Each boy in the different villages is provided with a set of tools
of suitable size, comprising a spade, digging fork, draw hoe, Dutch hoe,
and planting fork or trowel, with sheds for their accommodation. These
tools are inspected, and, with trifling exceptions, are kept in the most
admirable condition, being made bright, and then lightly oiled to prevent
rusting. Potatoes and seeds were provided for cropping, and prizes have
been awarded for the produce at some local exhibitions. The boys attend
borticultural lectures when these are given in their villages during winter
evenings, and appear in every way anxious to acquire information on the
management of land and the production of crops. So far as is known,
the Surrey system of Continuation School Gardens is the most complete
that has been yet established under County Council auspices ; and it is
hoped and expected that the rising generation will be benefited by the
privileges afforded. — J. Weight.”

LILIUM LANCIFOLIUM AND ITS YARIETIES.

Theee are few more beautiful flowering plants for greenhouse or
conservatory decoration at this season than the various types of
Lilium lancifolium. Some few years ago they were cultivated more
extensively than at present, and it is strange that such charming plants
should be neglected.

Good sound imported bulbs can be procured from any nurseryman.
The bulbs will be found in most instances to be of a moderate size, and
three are sufficient fora 10-inch pot. Drain the pots well, and place over
the crocks a handful of partly decayed leaves, afterwards half fill the
pots with a compost of fibry loam, one part dried horse droppings and
rough leaf mould, adding a remaining part of broken red sandstone and
coarse silver sand. This has been the best compost we have ever used,
the growth of the plants being strong, and the flowers exceptionally
fine. When the pots have been filled to the height mentioned give a
sprinkling of coarse sand, on which place the bulbs, and fill up almost
level with the top of the latter.

After potting we place the pots in a cold frame, plunging them to
the rims in ashes. If the soil was fairly moist no water will be
requisite until growth is perceivable. Protection from severe frost may
be afforded by covering the lights with any stout material, removing it
on every favourable occasion, and giving ventilation when necessary.
In this position they may remain until growth is well advanced in the
spring. The plants can then be removed outside, standing them on
ashes, which will allow the water to drain away freely and keep out
worms. As the pots become full of roots top-dress with a similar
compost to that recommended. Daring growth, and until the buds
begin to show colour, weak applications of liquid manure will be found
very effectual. Soot is invaluable, the gro^yth assuming a deeper green,
and a sprinkling of some fertiliser is also beneficial. Neatly painted
stakes should be placed to the growths to prevent the bulbs getting
loosened, and when the buds show signs of colour a cool greenhouse is
the best place, as then the flowers open perfectly clean .

After flowering we never place the pots out of doors but in the
greenhouse, and repot the plants when they have finished flowering.
They are then carefully watered, for I am of the opinion that more
failures occur through the pots being placed outside and exposed to the

cold rains of the autumn than from any other cause. As the stems
show gradual signs of decay water is entirely withheld, and the pots
transferred to a cold frame, where the bulbs keep plump and are ready
to make a good start in the spring. The varieties we used to grow
largely were Roseum and Album, but these are now superseded by
Rubrum, with more intense colouring, and Album Kratzseri, with better
formed flowers and a green band in the petals. I enclose a few flowers,
from which you will see that our treatment is not very far wrong.
— R. P. R.

[The flowers sent are very fine, and reflect credit on the grower.]

PROPORTIONAL PRIZES.

If Mr. A Dean has been contending for the right of proportional
prizegiving in the Journal (page 155) I am very sorry to have missed
noting his efforts to effect this very just alteration. The Carshalton
Exhibition appears to show the unfairness and absurdity of the ordinary
method of prizegiving. Wherever I have had anything to do with
schedule framing 1 have tried to bring the value of the prizes offered as
near together as possible. When competition is severe there is often
the slightest margin between the successful exhibitors, yet that slight
difference may mean pounds, as for instance when the prizes are £15,
£10, £5, and many of us can recollect cases in which the first prize has
been £15, and the second only £5.

The large first prizes have arisen, as I believe, from a mistaken
notion on the part of committees, that a good sum of money was a greater
inducement to exhibitors to enter specimens. I do not know whether I
am right or wrong, but I have always fancied that a larger number of
exhibitors is obtained by a greater number of prizes. For instance, I
think £10, £8, £6, £4, would bring together more competitors than
£20 and £10, and if entry fees are charged this is a matter of some
moment to the Committee.

There are other advantages attending proportional prizegiving. It
would necessitate greater care on the part of the judges, and though I
believe in the great desire of judges to act fairly towards all exhibitors,
everything that tends to the exercise of care and caution in awarding
prizes is an advantage to the general body of exhibitors. Moreover,
when there is a great difference in the value of prizes, exhibitors who,
perhaps, naturally look favourably on their own productions, would
probably acquiesce in the judgment when they saw how close was the
competition, and everything that tends to kindly feeling between the
two classes is an advantage. The office of judge, if honestly carried out,
is no sinecure ; it means a fair share of labour, and this method of
prize-awarding would mean that every class would have to be “ pointed.”
This is often quite unnecessary, one exhibit being often immeasurably
superior to the other. No doubt a large number of judges would be
required, and a stricter clearing of the tents at the stated time, a matter
that is not sufficiently attended to at most shows, and one that greatly
curtails the time at disposal of the judges.

I see some difficulties. Of course, instead of a certain number of
prizes being offered, some such note as this would be necessary, “ In the
following classes such a sum (whatever the Committee have agreed to)

will be offered in - prizes.” But what will a single exhibitor receive,

or exhibitors, fewer than the number of prizes offered ? Then it would
seem necessary to have in the Secretary’s tent someone well up in the
matter of per-centages, whose duty it would be to thus divide the sum.
I do not exactly envy him the work, and certainly the post will not be
solicited by myself, although I suspect that these difficulties would soon
be smoothed over. — Y. B. A. Z.

PRESENT USE OF HOTBEDS.

Dueing such bright weather, such as we have had lately, it seems
somewhat out of place to write about hotbeds and their uses ; but a
well constructed hotbed at the present time is of much importance for
rooting the cuttings of various summer bedding plants which are
required for stock for the following season. Some gardeners keep a
stock in pots all the summer, w’nich is a very wise plan. Where this is
not done no time should be lost in striking a good batch of each sort
used, and a hotbed is the most suitable place wherein to root the
cuttings quickly. Such as Coleus Verschaffelti, Iresines Lindeni and
Herbsti, Gnaphalium, Alyssum, Lemon-scented Verbena, Heliotrope, and
Harrison’s Musk, are easily rooted in a hotbed. Pelargoniums are the
best rooted in boxes outdoors, Mesembryanthemums in pots in a cool
frame or greenhouse, and rootlets of Lobelias dibbled in boxes and
placed under a north wall till established. Alternantheras are generally
taken up, divided, and put in boxes ; but I like to have a stock of young
plants also. They grow more freely during the winter and early spring
months, and give a greater number of cuttings in the spring, healthier
and freer in growth than those taken from old stock plants.

The hotbed should be made of litter, old dry leaves, and a little lawn
grass mixed in, each layer being slightly damped as the work proceeds
if the material is at all dry. About 6 or 8 inches of ashes, cocoa fibre,
or sawdust, may be placed on the top when the material has been made
firm. This is in the case of hotbeds made in deep pits ; if they are to
stand alone in the open the frame must be placed on at a certain stage,
and more heating material added afterwards, so that the surface of the
pots when plunged will be about 8 inches from the glass.

A suitable compost to root the cuttings in is half leaf mould and
half loam, with a free admixture of sharp sand, Make the soil firm

August 31, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

203

in the pots bafore inserting the cuttings, and sprinkle a little sand
upon the surface of the soil after the cuttings are in and watered.
This helps to prevent damping. Be careful that the cuttings do not
flag much before being placed in the frame, leaving a little air on at
the top so as the vapour may escape. Attention is necessary after¬
wards to see that the cuttings do not flag, and are well shaded from all
sunshine till rooted. When this has taken place air may be gradually
admitted more freely, and the plants put in pots or boxes as is most
convenient If they be kept in a suitable temperature during the
winter, and not over-watered, grand plants will be at hand for quickly
increasing the stock to the required number. — Gr. Gaeneb.

HORTICULTURAL SHOWS.

SHREWSBURY. — August 23ed.

Once again has the famed and beautiful Quarry Grounds of historic
and picturesque Shrewsbury been seen in a manner to be remembered.
The best specimen plants that Britain can boast, with beautiful groups
half filling one of the huge marquees ; cut flowers in extraordinary
numbers and superior quality, with floral arrangements of the first order
of merit, and in some respects unique ; fruit in enormous quantity and
superb condition — the premier display of the year ; vegetables as if
grown for an army of giants; the best music the kingdom affords —
the bands of the Royal Horse Guards and the Grenadiers, led by the
“ two Godfreys,” with sundry other attractions of a very miscellaneous
order ; with Pain’s fireworks and 40,000 people on the green sward,
encircled by towering Limes, we have an aggregate of a very remarkable
character brought together on the occasion of the “ Floral and Musical
FSte ” — the nineteenth of the series — the greatest and the best that has
yet been provided by the Shropshire Horticultural Society,

The Society, as represented by the records of its shows, appears to
have started well, and to have gone on improving with no checks worth
mentioning, until it has reached its present commanding position in the
horticultural world. The total receipts from the first Show in 1875 was
£790, an amount it may be noted only a little above the sum allocated
for prizes during the present year. The receipts last year from all
sources were £3740. This year they may be a little less in consequence
of the unfortunate disturbance in the coal trade, and thousands of men
“ out ” of the class which, with their families, attend the great Pro¬
vincial Festival. The takings on the first day (£535) were greater than
on the corresponding day in any other year, while those on the record
day amounted to £1400 — a wonderful result under the circumstances.
There was no falling off in the competition ; but on the contrary, an
increase of 200 entries, bringing the total up to 2400. This speaks well
for the confidence that is reposed in the Society. Exhibitors are
treated in no niggardly fashion, but every encouragement that can rightly
be given is extended, as is instanced by the number of medals and special
prizes granted for miscellaneous exhibits of a meritorious character. In a
word a generous policy is pursued, and it is this which has mainly
made the Society what it is. Societies that work on the principle of
getting as much from and giving as little as possible to those who are
in a position to support them, seldom if ever win a high position and
gain the confidence of the horticultural community. Of such magnitude
was this last Show at Shrewsbury that no less than twenty-two Judges
were engaged, and they could only just complete their duties in time
for the public admittance. The following were the adjudicators in the
different sections : —

Specimen Plants and Groups, — Mr. Outram, B. S. Williams
and Co., London ; Mr. Ranger, R. Ker & Sons, Aigburth Nurseries,
Liverpool ; Mr. Chapman, gardener to J. Spode, Esq., Hawkesyard
Park, Rugeley.

Cut Flowers, Floral Designs, Bouquets, &c.— Mr. W. Dean,
Sparkhill, Birmingham ; Mr. Wright, Journal of Horticulture Office,
London; Mr. Blair, gardener to the Duke of Sutherland, Trentham ;
Mr. Barnes, gardener to the Duke of Westminster, Eaton Hall.

Fruit. — Mr. 0. Thomas, gardener to H.M. The Queen, Windsor ;
Mr. Coleman, gardener to Lady H. Somerset, Eastnor Castle, Ledbury ;
Mr. Miller, gardener to the Earl of Craven, Combe Abbey ; Mr. Rabone,
gardener to the Earl of Shrewsbury, Alton Towers.

Vegetables. — Mr. Muir, gardener to Miss Talbot, Margam Park,
Glamorgan ; Mr. Lambert, gardener to the Earl of Powis, Powis Castle,
Welshpool ; Mr. H. W. Ward, gardener to the Earl of Radnor, Longford
Castle, Salisbury ; Mr. N. Pownall, gardener to F. Wright, Esq., Lenton
Hall, Nottingham.

Wild Flowers. — Mr. W. Beacall and Mr. T. P. Blunt, Shrewsbury ;
and Rev. W. Serjeantson, Acton Burnell.

Cottagers. — Mr. J. Jones, gardener to A. P. Heywood-Lonsdale,
Esq., Cloverley ; Mr. J. Wallis, gardener to R. Sneyd, Esq., Keele Hall ;
Mr. T. B. Field, gardener to Sir H. Thyrwhitt, Bart., Stanley Hall ; and
Mr. Farrant, gardener to Mrs. Juson, Shrewsbury.

Only the chief features of the Show can be noted, and the prize¬
winners in some of the principal classes recorded.

Groups and Specimen Plants.

Groups. — The schedule opened with a class for a “group of miscellane¬
ous plants, in and out of bloom, arranged to produce the best effect, and
occupying a space of 300 square feet.” The prizes offered in these classes
were £20, £16, £14, and £12 respectively, and it may be said that the
winners of the third and fourth prizes were as well entitled to the amounts
allocated as were the first and second prizewinners to the relative greater

sums. Five groups were arranged in squares and produced an imposing and
diversified effect. After long and close examination the premier prize
was awarded to the group of J. H. Manners Sutton, Esq., Kelham Hall,
as arranged by Mr. A. Webb, gardener. It may be described as strong
and rich, though perhaps a trifle heavy, yet it could scarcely be
described as overcrowded, though undoubtedly, to use the familiar term
of gardeners, there was “stuff enough in it.” It was, however, good
“ stuff,” the plants being bright and healthy. The arrangement con¬
sisted of a bold central mound of Crotons, Dracaenas, and Ferns, sur¬
mounted with a spreading Palm. There were five or six smaller mounds
of a similar character supporting isolated plants of Crotons, Dracaenas,
and small Palms in excellent condition. The ground, or dells between
the elevations, was furnished with small brightly coloured plants and
Ferns, not packed closely together, but dotted in the moss, and plenty
of space between them. The background consisted of Palms, Crotons,
and Liliums. The contour and character of every plant was displayed,
instead of, as is so often the case, one spoiling the effect of the other by
crushing and crowding.

That great prizewinner at shows, Mr. Cypher of Cheltenham, who has
also the reputation that so many persons appreciate, of being a “ good
loser,” just lost the first prize in this class but well won the second, an
extremely light and chaste arrangement, but not, as some thought, quite
rich enough. White as represented by Francoas and Caladium
argyrites predominated under a canopy of Ferns. The plants were
thinly disposed, and in that respect, perhaps, excelled all others, and the
effect of the whole would have been enhanced with fewer variegated
plants as a background. Mr. F. Denning, Birmingham, was placed
third with a good but rather heavy arrangement, though lightened with
a group of Tuberoses springing from a mass of Asparagus plumosus or
allied form — an attractive combination. This is the best group we have
seen from this exhibitor, who seems to possess the spirit of perseverance
that usually brings success sooner or later. The remaining prize was
worthily adjudged to the group of C. H. Wright, Esq., Halston Hall
(Mr. Roberts, gardener), and was composed of bold masses of Liliums
associated with Palms, interspersed with small Crotons and other
plants — effective and ran its rival rather closely. The fifth group was
arranged by Messrs. Jones & Son, Shrewsbury. Its merit was recognised
by an extra prize of £5, and the exhibitors will now perhaps fortify
themselves for another contest.

Specimen Plants. — The class for sixteen stove and greenhouse plants,
half to be in bloom, created a good deal of interest, as it seemed to be
understood that Messrs. Cypher and Finch (Mr. Marriott’s able gardener)
were showing their best for the premier (£20) prize. Some persons
thought that the latter’s magnificent Ixoras and brilliant Crotons would
“ pull him through,” but the predominating view was that “ Cypher
would overweight him,” and so it was. He won with a grand collection.
His Ericas Eweriana, Marnockiana, and Aitoniana, also Allamanda
Hendersoni, Dipladenia amabilis, Statice profusa, and Clerodendron
were highly effective, and admirably supported by magnificent 8 feet
Crotons angustifolius. Sunset, and Queen Victoria, and these well
backed by lofty Palms — a ponderous contribution, as it had to be to
hold the position against the Coventry contingent. Mr. Pinch’s Ixora
Duffi was remarkable by the richness of its massive heads. Its equal
has probably never been seen, and the Williams’ Memorial medal was
awarded for it as the best flowering stove plant in the Show. Mr.
Finch had other fine Ixoras, a splendid Erica, fine Allamanda, good
Lapageria, and glowing Crotons Prince of Wales and Warreni, but his
Palms lacked weight. He well won the £15 prize, and £2 extra with
the Williams’ medal. There were no other competitors, and luckily,
perhaps, for the large tent was overcrowded with exhibits.

Amongst these the plants in the class for Shropshire gardeners con¬
tributed effectively to the display. The first prize for six specimens
was won by Mr. Pearson, gardener to Lord Berwick, Attingham Hall,
with two Ixoras, an Allamanda, Dipladenia, Palm, and Croton, all in
good condition, as were the plants with which Mr. Farrant, gardener to
Mrs. Juson, Shrewsbury, won the second prize. Ferns were admirably
represented, and the specimens of Salopian gardeners were most credit¬
able, those of Mr. Penson, gardener to Lord Forester, Willey Park,
Broseley, perhaps especially so. His plants comprised Microlepia hirta
cristata, Nephrolepis davallioides, Polystichum capense, Adiantum
decorum, Davallia Mooreana, and Adiantum farleyense, wonderfully
fresh and healthy. Messrs. Bremmell and Steventon were also successful
exhibitors. Tuberous Begonias, Fuchsias, Coleuses, Dracmnas, and
Caladiums were effectively shown by Messrs. Lambert, Leith, Bremmell,
and other gardeners ; but Orchids could not be expected to be numerous
so late in the season. Messrs. Cypher and Shuttleworth & Co. (Brad¬
ford) were successful in the nurserymen’s class, winning the prizes of
£12 and £8 respectively, A. E. W. Darby, Esq. (Mr. Dawes, gardener),
being the only exhibitor in the amateurs’ section. The prizes for
Palms were won by Messrs. Cypher, Finch, and Webb.

In the same plant tent Messrs. T. S. Ware, Tottenham, had a
splendid collection of Tuberous Begonias, for which a gold medal was
awarded, a similar mark of distinction being granted to a most^ exten¬
sive and varied exhibit of plants by Messrs. Pritchard & Sons, Shrews¬
bury, and a silver medal to the Liverpool Horticultural Company for a
fine group of Tea Roses,

Cut Flowers.

The cut flower section is always a heavy one. There were thirty-six
classes in the division open to all. In the class for a collection of cut
Roses, in space 12 feet by 6 feet, two admirable exhibits were staged,
both from Scotland. Messrs. James Cocker & Son, Aberdeen, were well

204

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 31, 1893.

first with fine blooms, staged in small groups of separate varieties, a
basket of Viscountess Folkestone being the centre object. Messrs.
D. & W. Croll, Dundee, was second — a fine display, with a con¬
spicuous centre of blooms of Mar^cbal Niel and Online Forestier. For
twenty-four cut Roses the prizes were awarded to these two firms, the
Aberdeen firm being first.

In the class for a collection of Dahlias of all types, in a space 15 feet
by 6 feet, there was a display which drew forth warm admiration,
Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co., of Salisbury, easily taking the first
prize with a fine assortment most effectively arranged ; Mr, George
Humphries, The Nurseries, Kingston Langley, second; Messrs. Jones
and Sons, Shrewsbury, third ; Messrs. Kimberley, of Coventry, also
Messrs. Jones & Son, Shrewsbury, being commended. For twenty-four
Dahlias— first, Mr. Humphries ; second, Messrs, Harkness & Sons,
Bedale ; third, Messrs. Keynes & Co.

Three collections of Gladioli were staged, each in a space of 24 feet
by 6 feet, and made a brilliant display. The first prize fell to Messrs.
Harkness & Sons, Bedale, for bold, well-bloomed large spikes. Second,
Messrs. Jones & Son, Shrewsbury. Third, Mr. Wm. Shaw, Kidderminster.
For eighteen spikes of Gladioli Messrs. Harkness & Sons were first, and
Mr. William Shaw second. Liberal prizes were offered for Begonia
blooms in a space 8 feet by 6 feet, and here Mr. Davis of Yeovil had it
all to himself with a very fine display. In the class for twelve bunches
of stove and greenhouse flowers. Orchids excluded, some excellent exhibits
were staged. Mr. Carling, gardener to Mrs. Cope, Woolton, Liverpool,
was first, and other good boxes were stagsd,

A grand display was made with hardy border flowers, set up in
competition for the liberal prizes for collections, each in a space 15 feet
by 6 feet, annuals and shrubs excluded. Six collections were staged,
and each deserved a first prize. Messrs. Cocker & Son, Aberdeen, were
first with bold bunches in great variety, well arranged. Messrs.
Harkness & Sons were second with a very extensive assortment, too
much crowded into the given space. Third Messrs. Laxton Brothers,
Bedford (succeeding to their late father’s business), with noble bunches.
Fourth Messrs, Biddles & Co., Loughborough. Fifth Messrs. Dicksons,
Chester, with an excellent group.

Prizes of £5, £4, and £3 were offered for a collection of Carnations
and Picotees in variety, shown with their own foliage and buds, and not
dressed in any way, in a space 9 feet by 6 feet. The season for these
flowers was over south of the Tweed, but three collections were staged
from Scotland. First, Mr. Campbell, Blantyre. Second, Messrs. Laing
and Mather, Kelso ; and third, Mr. John Forbes, Hawick. It is an
excellent idea, as it shows the character of the varieties, and had the
month of August been the blooming time as usual with the Midland
growers, there would have been a much finer display.

Shrewsbury is famous for bouquets, and prizes of £5, £4, and £3 are
annually offered for a ball and a bridal bouquet. Messrs. Jenkinson and
Son, florists, Newcastle-under-Lyne, were first with two handsome
shower bouquets. Second, Messrs. Perkins & Sons, Coventry. Third,
Mr. Gilbert Davidson, Ammanford. Liberal prizes are also given for
buttonhole bouquets, a hand bouquet, bridal bouquet, and epergnes.
Another class is devoted to a decorative dinner table for ten persons
with flowers and fruits. Messrs. Jones & Sons, Shrewsbury, were well
first with two epergnes, and a good Melon,' Pine, Nectarines, Peaches,
and Grapes, and six small specimen glasses. Four other exhibits were
staged in this class.

A new departure here was to be seen in liberal prizes being offered
for a group of floral arrangements, in a space 12 feet by 6 feet. There
were six competitors, all of considerable merit and beauty of arrange¬
ment. Messrs. Perkins & Sons, Coventry, were first with a splendid
assortment, consisting of shower bouquets, in which shades of cream
colour and light yellow predominated ; others, made up of light coloured
Cattleyas and Oncidium flexuosum ; lovely baskets of flowers, anchors,
wreaths, crosses, sprays, and along the top lovely fan-shaped arrange¬
ments of Grasses, Ferns, and foliage. Various other designs were staged
in this collection, and in the centre was a large wedding cake orna¬
mented with wreaths. Messrs. Jenkins & Sons, Newcastle, were a good
second, and three equal third prizes were awarded. The amateur classes
in the cut flower department were generally also well filled.

Fruit.

Fruit was magnificently shown, the competition in all the classes
being very heavy, and with a remarkable absence of inferior exhibits.
It was the largest and best exhibition ever held by the Society,
particularly of Grapes.

Collections. — There were five entries for twelve dishes of fruit,
premier honours being secured by the Earl of Harrington, Elvaston
Castle (gardener, Mr. J. H. Goodacre), who staged Muscat Hamburgh,
very fine ; Muscat of Alexandria, Madresfield Court, and Foster’s
Seedling Grapes, all in prime condition ; his other dishes consisting of
Walburton Admirable and Golden Eagle Peaches, Hero of Lockinge
Melon, Brown Turkey Figs, Washington Plums, Victoria Nectarines, a
good Pine, and a fine dish of Strawberries. Second, J. Corbett, Esq.,
Impney (gardener, Mr. Parker), with Golden Queen, Alicante, Alnwick
Seedling, and Muscat of Alexandria Grapes, well finished ; Cox’s Orange
Pippin Apples, Brown Turkey Figs, Humboldt Nectarines, Best of All
Melon, Princess of Wales Peach, Jersey Gratioli Pears, Jefferson Plums,
and a good Pine. Third, Hon. Mrs. Meynell Ingram (gardener, Mr.
Dawes), a very close opponent, all the dishes being fine. Fourth,
W . A. H. Marks, Esq. Ledbury (gardener, Mr. J. Bailey), who staged
some very fine fruit, but his Pine was weak. For a collection of nine
dishes of fruit, open to Salop only, the competition was keen. H. H.

Hayhurst, Esq. (gardener, Mr. S. Bremmell), secured first honours, his
best dishes being fine Muscat of Alexandria and Alnwick Seedling
Grapes, Bon Chretien Pears, Late Duke Cherries, Hero of Lockinge
Melon, and Prince of Wales Peaches. Second, Rev. J. M. Buckley Owen
(gardener, Mr. J. Langley). Third, J. Watson, Esq. (gardener, Mr.
A. Gant), both staging fine fruit.

Grapes. — The class for six bunches of black Grapes excited much
attention, the prizes amounting to £19 causing heavy competition, and
grand specimens were staged by many veterans. The Hon. C. H. Wynn,
The Rhffg, Corwen (gardener, Mr. J. Bennett), was placed first with
magnificent bunches of Gros Maroc, Alnwick Seedling, and Alicante,
the size of berry, depth of bloom, and perfect finish were splendid.
Second, the Earl of Harrington, with fine Gros Guillaume, Alicante, and
Alnwick Seedling. Third, ,1. Grant Morris, Esq , Allerton Priory
(gardener, Mr. Craven). Fourth, C. Bayer, Esq., Forest Hill, London
(gardener, Mr. J. Bury). Fifth, Earl of Cork, Frome (gardener, Mr. W.
Iggulden). The two latter receiving extra prizes, their exhibits being
so meritorious. For three bunches of Black Hamburghs, J. C. Sinclair,
Esq., Rock Ferry (gardener, Mr. R. Brownbill), was first with beautiful
examples in a heavy class. Second, J. T. Harris, Esq., Stone (gardener,
Mr. J. Bates), with flue bunches, well finished. Third, R. Pilkington,
Esq., Rainford Hall, St. Helens (gardener, Mr. G. Middleton). The
class for three bunches of any other black was a grand one, many fine
stands of Alicante and Gros Maroc having to stand out, as Madresfield
Court swept the deck. Many exhibitors hope the Society will make a
class for late Grapes another year. J. Grant Morris, Esq., was a good
first with fine bunches, and berries well finished. Second, Mrs. Meakin,
Cresswell Hall, Stafford (gardener, Mr. J. Wilks). Third, Hon. C. H.
Wynn.

For four bunches of white Grapes in two varieties, J. R. Franklin,
Esq., St. Hillary, Cowbridge (gardener, Mr. E. Silk), secured the first
position with fine Muscat of Alexandria and Mrs. Pearson. Second,
Hon. C. H. Wynn, with Muscat of Alexandria and Buckland Sweetwater.
Third, Duke of Newcastle, Worksop (gardener, Mr. C. Slade), with
Duke of Buccleuch, and Muscat of Alexandria. Many splendid lots could
not receive notice as the class was so extensive. The white Muscat class
was a big one, but though the fruit was fine in bunch and berry the colour
generally was not good, and shrivelling had set in on many stands,
the opinion being that the season has been too forcing to suit Muscats.
R. Pilkington, Esq., was a good first. Second, the Duke of Newcastle,
very close on the first. Third, J. Daintry, Esq., Congleton (gardener,
Mr. A. H. Hall). For three bunches of any other white, J. Grant Morris,
Esq., was first with fine well coloured clusters of Buckland Sweetwater.
Second, Mrs. B. Darby, Baschurch (gardener, Mr. R. Lawley). Third,
0. Bayer, Esq. Two bunches of Black Hamburgh Grapes, open to
Salop only, first. Rev. J. M. B. Owen. Second, C. H. Wright, Esq.,
Halston Hall, Oswestry (gardener, Mr. C. Roberts). Third, G. Borr, Esq.,
Oaklands. Other successful exhibitors in the classes confined to Salop
were Lord Harlech, Col. R. T. Lloyd, R. Darby, Esq., and Lord
Berwick.

Lord Bagot, Blythefield, Mrs. Horsfall, and Mrs. Meekin were
the successful exhibitors of Peaches, but the names of the varieties
could not be ascertained ; the fruit was very large and highly coloured.
For Nectarines R. Sneyd, Esq., Keele Hall (gardener, Mr. J. Wallis), was
first with beautiful fruit of Darwin. Second, Lord Harlech, with
Violetta Hative. Third, Hon. Mrs. Meynell Ingram. Lord Harlech
also took first with Apricots and with twelve purple Plums, J. Corbett,
Esq., occupying a similar position with white Plums. Green-flesh
Melons were well shown by Mr. J. Edmonds, Earl of Harrington, and
Lord Berwick, who took the prizes in the order named. For scarlet-
flesh Melons Rev. J. M. B. O wen, Hon. Mrs. Meynell Ingram, and the
Duke of Newcastle took the honours as named.

Five splendid Pine Apples were staged by Mr. C, Slade, gardener to
the Duke of Newcastle, well deserving the certificate of merit and
special prize awarded. A similar prize was awarded to the Hon. C. H.
Wynn forsix Pine Apples, very fine. A special prize was awarded to C. Lee
Campbell, Esq., Glewston Court, Ross (gardener, Mr. S, T. Wright), for
three immense bunches of Black Alicante Grapes, which were also large
in berry, with a dense bloom, in perfect condition. Mr. J. Watkins,
Pomona Farm Nurseries, Hereford, was awarded a certificate of merit
and a silver medal for a large collection of Apples, Pears, and Plums, all
the fruit being large and of very high colour, attracting much attention;
The English Fruit and Rose Company, King’s Acre, Hereford, were
awarded a certificate of merit for a large collection of Apples of
brilliant colour for the time of the year.

Vegetables.

Large quantities of vegetables were shown, many of them of excellent
quality, but better finished collections have been seen at previous
Shrewsbury Shows. There were six competitors for the Society’s prizes
offered for twelve varieties, but the Judges experienced no great
difficulty in awarding those prizes. Mr. T. Wilkins, gardener to Lady
Theodore Guest, Blandford, was well first, having fine Autumn Giant
Cauliflowers, Lyon Leeks, Sutton’s Solid White Celery, Green Globe
Artichokes, Exhibition Beet, Ne Plus Ultra Runner Beans, Satisfaction
Potatoes, Perfection Tomatoes, Ailsa Craig Onions, Model Cucumbers,
and Autocrat Peas. Mr. W. Pope, gardener to the Earl of Carnarvon,
Newbury, took the second prize with a good even collection, in which
Solid White Celery and Satisfaction Potatoes were particularly fine. The
third prize went to Mr. R. Milner, gardener to Miss Talbot, Penrice
Castle, Swansea. In the class for six varieties, this being confined to the
county of Salop, there were twelve competing, a capital lot of produce

August 31, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

205

being shown. Mr. S. Wakebam, gardener to T. W. Williams, Esq., was
first, he having good Autumn Giant Cauliflowers, Snowball Turnips,
Ailsa Craig Onions, Intermediate Carrots, Main Crop Tomatoes, and
Blood Red Beet. Mr. J. Abbott, gardener to Mrs. C. Guise, was a
creditable second ; and Mr. R. C. Townsend, gardener to Colonel R.
Lloyd, third.

Potatoes in all the classes provided for them were remarkably good,
coarseness being less apparent, and less favoured by the Judges than
usual. The best six varieties were shown by Mr. J. Hathaway, gardener
to the Earl of Lathom, Ormskirk, who had Satisfaction, Edgcote Purple,
Chancellor, Reading Ruby, Cole’s Favourite, and Scarisbrick Favourite
in perfect condition. Mr. G. H. C. Shorting was second, and Mr. E.
Cumberbatch third. For three varieties, Mr. T. Griffiths, gardener to
J. Dixon Taylor, Esq., was well first, having excellent dishes of The Bruce,
Prizetaker, and Satisfaction. Mr. J. Hathaway was second, and Mr. W.
Pope third. There were twenty-five competitors with one dish of
Tomatoes, Mr. D. Sheppard, Winchcombe, being first with very good
examples of Perfection ; Mr. A. Ruddock being second, and Mr. W.
Shaw third. Carrots, Turnips, Onions, and other vegetables in season
were extensively and well shown, a whole tent being principally devoted
to them.

Special prizes were offered by several of the leading seedsmen, the
competition being good in most cases. Five competed with collections
of vegetables, the prizes for which were provided by Messrs. Webb and
Sons, Stourbridge. Mr. T. Wilkins took the lead with very fine Excelsior
Onions, Webb’s Solid White Celery, Autumn Giant Caulifiowers, Autocrat
Peas, Webb’s Defiance Carrots, Sensation Tomatoes, Satisfaction Potatoes,
and Ne Plus Ultra Runner Beans. Mr. C. Pope was second, his
Mammoth Red Celery and Stourbridge Gem Cucumbers being extra
good. The third prize went to Mr. J. Hathaway, the fourth to Mr. R.
Milner, and the fifth to Mr. R. C. Townsend. Messrs. Webb & Sons also
provided prizes for a dish of Tomatoes, and in this instance Mr. W.
Iggulden, gardener to the Earl of Cork, Frome, was first with well
selected Webb’s Sensation ; Mr. J. Langley, gardener to the Rev.
Bulkeley Owen, West Felton, being a close second. Mr. J. Cooke,
gardener to G. Singer, Esq., third, and Mr. J. Craven, gardener to
J. Grant Morris, Esq., fourth. Messrs. Sutton & Sons offered prizes for
collection of vegetables, the first of which only was open to all, the rest
being confined to the county of Salop. Mr. T. Wilkins was well first
with a collection very like that which he staged for the Society’s prizes.
Mr. S. Wakehamwasagood second, Mr. R. Townsend third, Mr. G. Pear¬
son, gardener to Lord Berwick, fourth, and Mr. J. Milner fifth. Messrs.
Carter & Co., High Holborn, London, offered prizes in three separate
classes, in each of which there was good competition, Messrs. Farrant,
Iggulden, Bird, and others taking the prizes. Messrs. Taylor and
Thomson, Bishopsgate, London, also provided good prizes for their
customers to compete for. The first for a collection of vegetables was
well won by Mr. W, Pope, Mr. T. Wilkins was second, and Mr. R. C,
Townsend third.

The first of the prizes offered by the late Mr. Laxton for four varie¬
ties of his new Potatoes was won by Mr. W. Iggulden, who staged
medium-sized tubers of Early Laxton, Reward, Victorious, and General.
The winner of the first prize foi Clibran’s Tomato was Mr. A. Ruddock,
gardener to E. A. Young, Esq., but the fruits were rough. A series of
prizes were offered by Mr. R. Sydenham, Birmingham, which attracted
fairly good competition. Messrs. G. Cooke, A. Lowe, Bridgend, and
W. T. Roderick, gardener to A. M. Biddulph, Esq., Chirk Castle, being
the principal prizewinners. The names of the winners of the prizes
offered by Messrs. Thompson & Co. did not transpire in time for inclu¬
sion in this report. Cottagers’ exhibits were extensive and meritorious.

Honoeaey Exhibits.

These alone were sufficient to make up a very fine Exhibition.

Gold medals were awarded to Messrs. Dobbie & Co., Rothesay, for an
enormous collection of Dahlias, choice Sweet Peas, African and French
Marigolds of the finest quality, summer Chrysanthemums, herbaceous
and other fiowers — a bright, varied, and admirably arranged display ;
also, as previously stated, to Messrs. Thomas Ware & Co., Tottenham,
for a very fine collection of Begonias in pots and in a cut state, and to
Messrs. Pritchard & Sons, Shrewsbury, for a very extensive bank of
decorative plants.

Silver medals were awarded to ■ Mr. Albert Myers, nurseryman,
Shrewsbury, for a bank of plants ; Messrs. Birkenhead, Sale, for choice
Ferns; Messrs. Dicksons (Limited), Chester, a collection of plants;
Messrs. Wm. Cutbush & Son, London, collection of cut flowers ; Messrs.
Hewitt & Co., Birmingham, Begonias and other plants ; Messrs. Phillips
and Co., Shrewsbury, a collection of fruit ; Mr. Watkins, Pomona Farm,
Hereford, collection of Apples, Pears, and Crabs ; The Liverpool Horti¬
cultural Society for a group of Roses in pots. The Williams’ Memorial
medals, and £2 to Mr. W. Finch, gardener to Mr. Alderman Marriott,
Coventry, for his grand example of Ixora Duffi, and to Mr. W. Evans,
Stone, Staffordshire, as an amateur who does not employ a gardener,
for a fine plant of Oncidium incurvum.

Certificates of merit were awarded to Messrs. Perkins & Sons,
Coventry, for seedlirg Cactus Dahlias Grand Mogul and Matchless, also
to a lovely Pompon, Greyfriars ; Messrs. Keynes, Williams, & Co.,
Salisbury, for seedling Cactus Dahlias, Gloriosa, Dawn, and Mephisto-
pheleg ; Mr. Hy. Eckford, Wem, for Sweet Peas; Mr. Wm. Innes,
Rothesay, for Pansies and cut flowers ; Messrs. Edwards & Sons, Sher¬
wood, Nottingham, for floral decorations ; Messrs. Jarman & Co., Chard,
for a collection of vegetables ; Mr. W. D. Bacon, Wolverhampton, for
new Milltrack Mushroom spawn ; The English Fruit Company, Hereford,

for a collection of Apples and Pears ; Laxton Brothers, Bedford, for
Sweet Pea Princess May, in colour very like Countess of Radnor.

A special silver medal was awarded to Mr. Wilkins, gardener to Lady
Theodore Guest, for twelve sorts of Onions, six bulbs of each, very large
and well ripened, a wonderful exhibit, Ailsa Craig standing out
prominent amongst them.

Such is the general character of the Shrewsbury Show. Only by
great zeal, sound knowledge, and unremitting labour on the part of the
Committee and experienced Secretaries (Messrs. Adnitt and Naunton)
could such gigantic displays of garden produce be arranged. The
success of the. Society has been phenomenal, and the town, its charities,
schools, and other objects have shared in its prosperity to the amount of
£3500. Bravo, Shrewsbury 1

TROWBRIDGE. — August 23ed.

The forty-fourth Exhibition of this Society was held on the above
date under favourable circumstances, and must have proved a
financial as well as a horticultural success, judging from the immense
number of visitors and the extensive array of exhibits on view. No
large money prizes are offered to attract exhibitors from a distance, but
the district is one from which a first class exhibition may be made.
Fuchsias arb always a feature here, and it is doubtful whether a rival
exhibition of these popular plants could be found anywhere. The
redoubtable Fuchsia raiser, Mr. James Lye. gardener to the Hon. Mrs.
Hay, Market Lavington, was the champion in both classes pro¬
vided — namely, for four and six plants, his specimens being perfect in
every detail, and standing from 8 to 10 feet in height. Mr. Geo.
Tucker won the second, and Mr. Pocock, gardener to J. P. Haden, Esq.,
third prize.

For nine stove and greenhouse flowering plants, Mr. Mathews,
gardener to Sir W. Roger Brown, was first, but Major Clark followed
him very closely, Mr. E. B. Rod way being third. This was a strong
class, including good, healthy, well-trained and perfectly flowered
plants of Allamanda nobilis, A. Hendersoni, Bougainvillea glabra,
Lapageriai rosea and alba, Ixoras, Ericas, Eucharis amazonica,
Rondeletia speciosa, Clerodendron Balfourianum and others. The
same exhibitors secured the prizes in the order given for six and
three flowering plants. For fifteen Ferns or Mosses Mr. G. Tucker was
a good first, Mr. Haden second, and Mr. Sancombe third. Sir Roger
Brown, Mr. F. Applegate, and Captain Spicer (gardener, Mr. F. Perry),
shared the prizes for foliage plants in the order named. Only two
exhibits of Caladiums were staged, but these were large, well grown
plants of good variety, Mr. Pocock was first and Mr. Mathews second.
Mr. Mathews was again to the front in a strong class for specimen
trained Coleus, the Hon. Mrs. Hay second, and Mr. E. B. Rod way third.
Mr. Mathews was the only exhibitor of Heaths, six plants, and gained
the first prize. Mr. Pymm, gardener to Mrs. Goldsmith, was first for a
group of plants arranged for effect on a space not exceeding 60 square
feet, but Mr. Deacon, gardener to H. Harris, Esq., Caine, staged a much
more effective arrangement, highly coloured Crotons, Eulalias, Dracseuas,
Hedychiums, and Orchids, being raised lightly from a groundwork of
Ferns, Panicums, and similarly dwarf plants. Mr. Pymn’s was a simple
“ bank,” too symmetrically arranged, and devoid of the undulating
features that characterised his opponent’s exhibit. Mr. Tucker was first
for six well grown Gloxinias, also for the same number of Achimenes
and double Begonias. Mr. Keen won with six single Begonias, with
profusely flowered plants of small blooming sorts, quite out of date
according to present day’s standard of perfection. The premier award
for Orchids was won by Mr. Pymm, Sir Roger Brown being second, and
Mr. Deacon third.

Cut flowers were well represented. Asters being first-rate. Messrs.
W. J. Jones, G. Garaway, Bath, and A. A. Walters, Bath, won the prizes
with twenty-four German Asters ; while with French of the same
number of blooms Messrs. A. A. Walters, T. Every, and G. Garaway
were the w-inners in the order of their names. Roses were not exten¬
sively shown, but for the season were very good indeed. In the open
classes Dr. Budd, Bath, was first for twelve bunches ; Messrs. Cooling
and Son second ; and Mr. W. Smith, Kings wocd, third, and these
positions were repeated by the same growers for twenty-four Roses,
single blooms. In the amateurs’ division Dr. Budd was beaten by Mr.
T. Hobbs, Bristol, in the class for twelve bunches, and also for twelve
single blooms. Gladiolus, Verbenas, Hollyhocks, hardy annuals, and
choice greenhouse cut flowers ; Dahlias, and trusses of brightly coloured
Zonal Pelargoniums were each represented in large numbers of good
stands.

In the fruit tent it was universally admitted that the Show was one
that had never been equalled on any previous occasion, every class
being largely contested. For a collection of ten dishes, excluding
Pines, Mr. W. Strugnell, gardener to W. H. Long, Esq., M.P., Rood
Ashton, Trowbridge, first, his dishes being Black Hamburgh, Muscat of
Alexandria and Alnwick Seedling Grapes, Blenheim Orange Melon,
Bellegarde Peaches, Pineapple and Stanwick Elruge Nectarines, Jefferson
Plums, Brown Turkey Figs, and Morello Cherries placed on brightly
coloured leaves of Ampelopsis Veitchi. Mr. G. Pymm was second
with good Foster’s Seedling and large bunches of Black Hamburgh
Grapes, Exquisite Peaches, Green Gage Plums, Lady Sudeley Apples,
Cherries and Pears. Mrs. Hardwick, Bradford-on- Avon, and Mr. W .
Cook, gardener to Major Heneage, Compton Basset, were awarded equal
thirds, and there were two other collections. For a collection of six
varieties Mr. F. Parry was successful over Mr. Palmer, Bradford-on-
Avon, and R. B. Cater, Esq., Bath. Grapes were numerous in the

206

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 31, 1892.

Beveral clasees provided, but particularly so in the one for black, in
which Muscats are excluded. Mr, W. Marsh, Coombe Down, Bath, was
^t with large, shapely bunches of Alicante, perfect in colour and berry.
Mr. T. Jones, Bath, second for Gros Maroc. Third, Mr. Attwsll, Stoke
Bishop, Bristol. Messrs. J. Dole, J. Gibson and Attwell won with
Buckland Sweetwater in the class for any other white, and for White
Muscats Messrs. T. Jones, J. Gibson and Attwell were again the suc¬
cessful competitors. Black Muscats were the least strongly contested,
Messrs. Jones, Gibson and R. J. Philips, gardener to Mrs. John Baily,
Frome, sharing the prizes in the order named. Mr. E. D. Foxcroft,
Bath, and Mr. J. Stratton, Melksham, won with green-fleshed Melons,
Mr. S. Humphrey and Mr. J. Gibson with scarlet-fleshed sorts. Mr. W.
Strugnell won with dessert Plums, Mr. Pymm with Cherries, Mr. J.
Colman, Bristol, Peaches, Mr. Strugnell Nectarines, Mr. G. Garaway
dessert Apples, and Mr. Strugnell culinary Apples, showing Peasgood’s
Nonesuch, weighing from 16 ozs. to 22 ozs. each.

Bouquets, wreaths, and vases of flowers were a good feature, and as
usual attracted much attention. Messrs. Attwell, A. H. Newman, and
E. T. Hill of Bristol ; Brown & Son, Frome ; W. Strugnell, and Miss
Maud Cole were the principal exhibitors ; the memorial wreath of the
latter being particularly good.

Vegetables, as is always the case at Trowbridge, were staged in con¬
siderable quantities and in the highest state of excellence, this applying
equally to the open, amateurs’, and cottagers’ sections. Messrs. Webb
and Sons, Stourbridge, offer prizes for a collection of six sorts, and this,
as well as the open to all class, were both won by Mr. Geo. Garaway,
market gardener of Bath. Potatoes were numerous and good, so also
were Carrots and Onions ; but Peas and Beans displayed evident signs
of the ungenial weather experienced of late.

Mr. James Huntley has been Honorary Secretary for upwards of
thirty years, and his genial manners and business capacities win him
many friends and helpers. Both Secretary and Committee work hard in
the promotion of, and the carrying out the arduous duties involved in
such an exhibition, and they deserve all the praise bestowed. The
prize money is always paid before exhibitors leave the field, and the
Society, it may be added, is in the most flourishing state, with a
substantial reserve fund in hand.

BASINGSTOKE. — August 25th.

The annual summer Exhibition of this Society was held in Hack-
wood Park — a charming site for such a fete. With the exception of a
few showers in the morning the day was delightfully fine, many persons
taking the opportunity to visit the Show, the park, and the military
tournament. The Exhibition was decidedly good, and superior to any
previously held under the auspices of the Society. The competition
was keen in nearly all classes, while the quality of the exhibits left
little to be desired. Vegetables were admirably represented, a few
perhaps too large, and it was evident the Judges paid more regard to
high quality than mere size. The arrangements were under the superin¬
tendence of the Hon. Secretary (Mr. J. A. Wallington) and his efficient
assistant (Mr. Weeks), and left little to be desired. Four marquees
were necessary to accommodate the exhibits, and so well were they
arranged that ample space was provided for the visitors to inspect the
Show without unpleasant crowding.

Plants were not only numerously staged, but of good quality. The
principal class was for twelve specimens, in or out of bloom. Mr. Bower-
man, gardener to C. Hoare, Esq., Hackwood Park, was easily first, so
good were his plants of Allamanda grandiflora, Clerodendron Balfouri-
anum, Statice profusa, and Ixoras in the flowering section, combined
with several well coloured Crotons and healthy Palms. Mr. T. Russell,
gardener to W. Bradshaw, Esq., Audley’s Wood, was second by the
superiority of his flowering plants. Mr. H. Brown, gardener to
A. B. Welch-Thornton, Esq., Beaurepaire Park, third. Mr. Russell was
the first prizewinner with six plants in flower, staging good specimens.
Mr. T. Weaver, gardener to W. 0. Gilchrist, Esq., Oakley Park, Basing¬
stoke, secured first honours for six foliage plants, healthy well-developed
Palms with fairly good Crotons being conspicuous. Mr. Brown second,
Mr. Russell third. For a collection of miscellaneous plants arranged in
a semicircle, effect to be the leading feature, there were three exhibi¬
tors, Mr. Bowerman and Mr. Weaver making a grand display for the
first and second prizes in the order named. The only fault that could
be found with the first prize group was a slight preponderance of
Crotons and Tuberoses. The group was well arranged, light and
effective. Mr. Weaver erred by crowding the plants, which were good,
but too numerous for the purpose. Mr. G. Southcott, gardener to
Captain Oldfield, Basingstoke, third. In the class for single specimen
flowering plants M r. Bowerman secured the premier award with Allamanda
Hendersoni, Mr. Brown coming second with a well-grown plant of
Clerodendron fallax. These two exhibitors reversed the order in the
specimen foliage plant class, Mr. Brown having Cycas revoluta, while
Mr. Bowerman had a well coloured Croton Queen Victoria. Begonias
made a great display. For twelve plants Mr. H. Brown won easily
with handsome specimens, carrying remarkably good blooms. Mr.
G. Best, gardener to F. W. Ley land. Esq., The Vyne, Basingstoke, was
second. Mr. Brown also won with six plants. Coleus were remarkably
well shown. For four pyramids Mr. G. Southcott was distinctly ahead
of Mr. T. Russell ; the plants from both were over 6 feet high and well
coloured. Mr. Brown staged the best Liliums, well grown and flowered
plants of the lancifolium type. Mr. Weaver had best six exotic Ferns,
well developed examples of popular kinds. Table plants were nume¬
rously staged, Mr. Best winning for twelve, Mr. Bowerman being an

extremely close second. Many other plants were well represented,
space only preventing our naming the winners.

Cut flowers added greatly to the attractiveness of the Show. Roses
were not numerous, but the prize flowers were of excellent quality and
well arranged. For twenty-four blooms Mr. Neville, gardener to F. W.
Flight, Esq., Cornstiles, Twyford, Winchester, was the only competitor,
but he staged remarkably handsome blooms. He also well won premier
honours with twelve blooms. Mr. Russell was second. For twelve bunches
of cat flowers Mr. G. Best won the first position with a neatly arranged
collection. Hardy herbaceous flowers were staged in quantity, Mr. N,
Kneller, gardener to W. S. Portal, Esq., Malshanger Park, was first, and
Mr. Best second. Mr. Weaver won with twelve trusses Zonal Pelar¬
goniums, Mr. Kneller second, both staging well. Dahlias were fairly
well represented, Mr. R. H. Munday first, Mr. Neville second. The
first-named had the best Asters in twelve blooms, a really good stand,
mainly of the Comet type. Table decorations, bouquets, and sprays
were well represented in classes open to ladies only, Mrs. Whitlock,
Mrs. Thorne, and Miss Owen being the most successful exhibitors.

Fruit made a capital display. For eight dishes Mr. Bowerman was.
an easy first, staging nicely finished bunches of Gros Maroc and
Muscat of Alexandria Grapes, Barrington Peaches, Countess Melon,
Brown Turkey Figs, and Williams’ Bon Chretien Pears. Mr. T. Osman,
gardener to L. Baker, Esq., Ottershaw Park, Chertsey, was second, he
also staging well. For a collection of six dishes Mr. Osman was first,
Mr. H. Brown second. Grapes were well represented. In the Black
Hamburgh class Mr. Bowerman was first with medium sized bunches,
having good berries and colour, Mr. Brown second. In the any other
black class Mr. Osman was first with Alicante, admirably coloured, Mr.
Bowerman and Mr. Kneller following in the order named. Mr. Brown
had the best White Muscat Grapes, staging fairly good examples, Mr.
Osman second, though he took the highest position in the class for
any other white with Foster’s Seedling. Mr. Russell had the best green
flesh Melon, a tolerably good one of Hero of Lockinge ; Mr. W. A. Hunt
second. A somewhat peculiar circumstance occurred in the scarlet flesh
class, Messrs. Wright and Molyneux withholding all the prizes, so
unpleasant, not to say nauseous, were the fruits. Mr. Bowerman had
the best Peaches, Sea Eagle, and Mrs. Field the best Nectarines.
Apples made a great display. For three dishes of dessert kinds Mr.
Kneller was placed first, Mr. Neville second. Kitchen varieties were
well represented also, as were Plums, Mr. Bowerman winning for three
dishes.

Vegetables filled the whole of one side of a large tent. For six
varieties, the prizes offered by Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Mr. Lye, gardener
to W. H. Kingsmill, Esq., Sydmonton Court, Newbury, beat his for¬
midable opponents, Messrs. Kneller and Bowerman, who were placed in
the order named. In the first prize collection were grand examples of
Satisfaction Potato, Perfection Tomato, Excelsior Onion, Sulham Pink
Celery, Mammoth Cauliflower, and New Intermediate Carrot. Mr.
Bowerman turned the tables on Mr. Lye in the class for the best
collection in competition for Messrs. Carter’s prizes with a good
collection, consisting of Rousham Park Onion, Autumn Giant Cauli¬
flower, and Satisfaction Potato. Messrs. Bowerman and Lye won first
and second prizes offered by Messrs. Webb for six varieties with produce
similar to the foregoing in quality and variety. Mr. Lye won the first
prize offered by Messrs. John Sharpe & Son, Mr. Best second, and Mr,
Bowerman third, all staging excellent produce. For a collection of
Potatoes in nine distinct varieties Mr, Lye was an easy winner with
clean shapely examples of leading varieties.

Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading, had a collection of cut blooms of
annuals and perennials, with several plants in pots of their choice
Begonias, Shrimp Pink and Queen of the Whites, all bearing a deep
impress of the strain sent out by this firm.

WOKK.foiitheWEEK..

HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

Cleanslngr Fruit Booms. — As the time is fast approaching when
fruit rooms will be fully occupied, it is desirable that everything should
be clean before bringing in choice Apples and Pears. Wholesome
conditions in the storing of fruit are imperative. Taints of any kind,
musty smells, and an unsuitable atmosphere will soon be transferred
to the delicate flesh of Apples and Pears. Therefore let the walls be
whitewashed, the shelves and woodwork thoroughly cleansed with soap
and water, and the floor scrubbed, admitting plenty of air afterwards
to dry the structure quickly.

Gathering- Apples and Pears. — No wholesale clearance of the
fruit from trees must yet be adopted where it is necessary to store
specimens for future use, but where Apples and Pears for immediate
supplies are needed, especially for cooking purposes, any sufficiently
sized fruit may be secured. Fallen fruit collected and used at once
proves useful, but such ought not to be stored in the same place with
choice carefully gathered specimens. Varieties which ripen immediately
may be picked as soon as they part readily from the spurs. To remain

August SI, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

207

oa the trees until dead ripe has the effect of the fruit losing its freshness,
aroma, and flavour if stored. If gathered just on the turn, without
injury, and kept in a cool dark place with the atmosphere pure and
sweet, neither too dry nor damp, each specimen will finish well.

Hints on Storlngr Trult. — Place Apples and Pears in the store¬
room in single layers on clean dry boards or shelves, from which they
can absorb no taint or smell. Avoid laying fruit on straw of any kind,
as the least mustiness in it will be attracted to the fruit. Clean white
paper may be employed with advantage to cover shelves. With var¬
nished white wood shelves fitted in the fruit room there is little fear of
fruit being injuriously affected. Common deal boards often contain
turpentine. Plums to be kept for future use should be allowed to hang
until perfectly ripe, then carefully gathered with the stalks intact,
wrapped in tissue paper, and laid in a dry airy place in the fruit room.
It is the late varieties which are chiefly stored to yield a succession as
long as possible, but some weeks may elapse before it is needful to
detach the fruit from the trees where it is desirable they should hang
protected, in the case of very choice varieties, with gauze bags from the
attacks of birds, wasps, and bluebottle flies.

Protecting- Cbolce Fruit. — Specimens of any kind of soft fruit
intended for any special purpose should be effectually secured against
the attacks of birds and insects. The former may be kept at bay by the
judicious use of nets, but for the latter other contrivances are necessary.
The gauze bags referred to are the surest means of protection, while
bottles of sweetened beer hung about the trees will attract and drown
numbers of wasps and flies. Earwigs are often prevalent, soon doing
much mischief. The only way of guarding against their depredations is
to trap them in short lengths of bean stalks, examining the traps every
morning, and blowing out the insects into hot water. Keep the sur¬
roundings of the trees clean, as earwigs, woodlice, and other marauders
always accumulate among weeds and rubbish, especially if dry and
partly decayed.

Supporting Fruit Trees. — As trees are relieved of their crops
some assistance may be necessary to aid the roots in perfecting the fruit
buds for another season. Adequate moisture in the soil in which the
principal fibrous roots ramify is the. first essential. Ked spider increases
fast when the soil is deficient in this respect, and the leaves once over¬
run with this small, but troublesome pest their premature loss is certain,
to the detriment of the fruit buds which derive their main support
from healthy green foliage fully exposed to light and air. Further
assistance being needed after the soil is properly moistened it may be
afforded by applications of liquid manure. Weakly trees only should be
treated to this. It will cause their buds to plump up better, and the
growth generally to be strengthened. Trees already strong enough had
better not be encouraged to make further growth. It may be advisable
to restrict the rooting powers of such trees if fruitless, and this condition
arises from excessive growth.

Tblnnlng out Crowded Brandies. — This is the best period of the
year for such operations. There is no advantage in having the interior
of trees full of wood and foliage which cannot receive any light. Every
superfluous branch is detrimental to fruitfulness. While the foliage is
present on the trees a better idea can be formed of the exact distances
branches require in order to fully receive and benefit by the full admis¬
sion of sunshine and air to every leaf and bud.

Subduing American Bllgbt. — This is now very conspicuous on
many Apple trees, and an attempt ought to be made to arrest its
increase. Spirits of turpentine and petroleum are both effectual
destroyers of the pest without injury to the trees if used judiciously.
The application must not be heavy, only suflflcient to moisten the bristles
of a paint-brush, then dabbing the insects and their fluffy covering with
either spirits of turpentine or petroleum . The oil must not be allowed
to run to waste down the stem, or saturate the bark. A portion of the
loose downy substance can be collected on a saturated brush without
touching the bark or stems at all to any extent.

FRUIT FORCING!.

Vines In Pots for Early Forcing. — Those intended for starting
early in November should now be completely at rest, the wood
thoroughly ripe, the laterals cut close back, and the canes shortened to
about 6 feet — more or less, according to the length required for the
position they are to occupy and the situation of the plump eyes. If the
Vines are kept rather dry at the roots it reduces the tendency to
bleeding, or the cuts when dry may be dressed with styptic or knotting.
Do not allow the soil to become dust dry, for this causes the roots to
shrivel, whilst a very wet condition may induce the decay of the fibres.
Keep the Vines in a cool, airy house. Later Vines in pots may be
placed outdoors to harden the growth and induce rest, the south side of
a wall or fence being preferable. If Vines have to be bought they
should now be ordered. The best for early forcing in pots are White
Frontignan, Foster’s Seedling, Black Hamburgh, and Madresfield Court.

Earliest House, — The earliest forced Vines — those started from early
December to January — should now be pruned. It is not necessary to
wait until all the leaves have fallen if the Vines are going to rest — the
wood brown and hard and the leaves turning yellow ; the pruning
will cause the Vines to rest more quickly and thoroughly. All the
loose bark should be removed, washing the rods with clear rain water
and afterwards with an insecticide or a solution of softsoap, 4 ozs. to a
gallon of water. If there be any scale or mealy bug add half a wine-
glassful of petroleum and half an ounce of washing soda to the solution,
and keep it well mixed whilst being applied with a brush to reach
every hole, angle, and crevice. Before dressing the Vines the woodwork

should have been cleansed with softsoap and water, the glass with clear
water, and the walls limewashed. Top-dress the borders both inside and
outside, clearing away the old mulching material and the loose surface
soil first; then supply fresh turfy loam, with a 9-inch potful of bone-
meal and double that quantity of wood ashes to every 3 bushels of loam,
and make firm. Weakly Vines, or those in an unsatisfactory state, will
be improved by removing the soil down to the roots and supplying
fresh turfy loam with an admixture of a sixth of old mortar rubbish
and a sprinkling of bonemeal and wood ashes, lifting any roots avail¬
able for the purpose, and laying them out in fresh material within
6 inches of the surface. This, however, is best done before the leaves
have fallen. Comparative dryness is desirable, but excessive drought
weakens, if not destroys, the young roots, and a sodden soil causes their
decay. Outside borders should have a covering of some kind to protect
them from the heavy autumn rains, which reduce the temperature
considerably. Glass lights are much the best, as they throw off the rain
whilst allowing the sun to warm the soil. These not being available,
and they need only be used in the case of heavy rains, a covering of
leaves and litter will be necessary after the weather sets in cold. i

Late Grapes, — Continue a night temperature of 65° and 70° to 75°
by day artificially, with 80° to 85° from sun, until the Grapes are
perfectly ripe, ventilating freely and keeping lateral growths closely
stopped, a warm atmosphere with a free circulation of air being essential
to thorough ripening. Laterals allowed to grow only excite root action,
and this encourages late growth. Material for covering the borders
should be held in readiness, for late Grapes keep much better when the
roots are not chilled by the autumn rains. Tarpaulin, shutters, or
thatched hurdles can be used for this purpose when required.

Young Vines. — These generally make a strong growth, and are con¬
sequently late in ripening. Such should be assisted with fire heat,
maintaining a minimum temperature of 65° and a maximum of 75°
from fire heat, running up to 85° to 90° from sun heat, accompanying
the artificial heat with a little top and bottom ventilation so as to insure
a circulation, increasing it proportionately with the sun heat. Laterals
also should be kept well in hand, not, however, pinching them so close
as to start the principal buds.

Cucumbers. — Earlier closing and syringing is necessitated by the
shorter and colder days, it being desirable to husband the sun heat and
have the foliage fairly dry before dusk. Employ fire heat to maintain a
temperature of 70° to 75° by day and to secure 65° at night. Keep the
shoots thin, remove old growths to make room for young ones, and so
insure a succession of bearing wood. Stop young shoots a joint beyond
the fruit. Encourage root action by a steady bottom heat of 80°, surface
dressings of lumpy loam and sweetened horse droppings, and afford tepid
liquid manure whenever water is required. Do not allow the fruit to
hang after it becomes fit for use, and avoid overcropping.

Autumn- fruiting Plants. — Stop the growths so as to insure an
even spread of bearing wood. Remove the staminate blossoms and
tendrils, also the first fruits. No shading will now be necessary. Cease
syringing the plants in the morning, and only practise it lightly on bright
afternoons, keeping the house damped as occasion requires. Admit air
early but moderately, avoiding draughts, for chills stunt the growths,
and a confined atmosphere causes the foliage to become thin and flabby.
Endeavour to secure a sturdy growth whilst opportunity offers by early
and judicious ventilation.

Winter -fruiting Plants, — The plants from seed sown early in August
are now fit to place in their fruiting quarters. The house must be a light
one, have a south aspect, and means of securing a temperature of 65° to
70° in all weathers. A bottom heat of 80° to 90° is also necessary. All
soil previously used must be cleared out, and the whole of the interior
of the house scalded, if possible, with hot water, washing the woodwork
with softsoap, water, and a brush, making the glass clean, and lime¬
washing the walls. Where rubble is used over and about the pipes for
bottom heat see that it is clean ; if not, take it out and cleanse it by
washing. Secure the drainage with a layer of turves, slightly charred,
grass side downwards. Place in hillocks or ridges of sod of about 2 feet
base, 10 or 12 inches depth, and 1 foot across at top. Use turfy loam
of medium texture two-thirds, fibrous sandy peat one-third, rejecting
any woody matter, old mortar rubbish freed of laths or pieces of wood,
with the rough broken small one-sixth, and nut charcoal one-twelfth, the
whole well incorporated. This material is equally suitable for plants in
beds, pots, or boxes, and should be made moderately firm. Pots or
boxes must be well drained, and only so far fille 1 with soil that when
the plants are introduced their seed leaves will be about level with the rims
of the pots, and as they will have some stem below the seed leaves which
will admit of earthing as the plants increase in growth. Very serviceable
fruits can be had from plants in pots or boxes in houses with a stove
temperature, training the growths so that their leaves will be clear of the
glass. Plant when the soil is warmed through, press it gently, and
secure the plants to stakes reaching to the trellis. Rub off the laterals
to that height, and stop the leading shoot at about the second or third
wire of the trellis. Shade from bright sun until established. Syringe
lightly in the early afternoon, damp the house in the morning, noon,
and afternoon. Maintain a day temperature of 70° to 75?, rising 10°
to 15° from sun heat, and a night temperature of 70°, falling 5° through
the night. The plants will give fruit in the late autumn, but they must
not be cropped much if they are to produce a crop from Christmas
to spring.

Seed may now be sown for raising plants to give a supply of
fruit about Christmas and onwards. Telegraph is still one of the best
varieties. Place the seed singly in 3-inch pots a little more than halt

208

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 31, 1893.

filled with soil, and cover half an inch deep. A pane of glass over each
pot will bring up the plants quickly ; remove it as soon as they appear
above the soil, and keep well up to the glass. Barth up the plants as
they require it, and transfer to 5- inch pots when they need a shift,
placing a stick to each, to which secure the plant as it grows. Rub off
laterals as they show, and train with a single shoot. The plants will be
fit to place out during the first fortnight of October.

Pits and Frames. — The growths in these will need to be kept thin as
a safeguard against damp, and watering must be done early and with
care and judgment, as cold and damp are disastrous to Cucumbers late in
the season. The plants will need very little water after this, as the
roots get enough moisture through the decay of the fermenting materials.
They must not, however, be allowed to flag, and a light sprinkling may
be given occasionally at closing time. Line the beds with stable litter,
and admit a little air at the back to allow of any steam escaping. The
temperature should be kept at about 65° at night, employing a covering
of mats over the lights on cold nights. With due attention to the linings
and covering Cucumbers will be obtained from these structures for some
weeks to come.

Strawberries In Pots. — Any plants not yet in their fruiting pots
should be given them without delay. Placed in 5 or 6-inch pots, according
to the size of the plants, they will fill them with roots before the winter,
and though not so large as those potted earlier, will give some fine fruit,
if they are not started before February. Plants potted some time ago
should be examined, and if making side buds these ought to be removed
with a pointed piece of hard wood, so as to throw the vigour into the
central crown or bud. Vigorous plants will not require liquid manure,
but weakly ones may be supplied with it twice a week. All runners
must be removed as they appear, also weeds. If the surface of the soil
becomes hard loosen it, especially at the sides of the pots, so as to
ensure the thorough moistening of the ball. As the plants grow set
the pots farther apart so as to expose the foliage to light.

BI)E-KE)EPBR.

. . . , . . 1 . , . , . 1 . 1. 1 :r-r.;i -7-1 - I -f. | | . iT r.-'l

h

APIARIAN NOTES.

Bees at the Moors.

We have now at the time of writing reached August 28th, and
the morning dawned the pleasantest I have witnessed since I came
on the moors. Ice was as thick as a shilling, and every green
thing stiff and white as at midwinter. The rain four days previous
to the 26 th completely washed the honey out of and spoiled some
Heather, but there still remains a great quantity of it in fair
order, but all is past lower down the hills. The long continuation
of the bloom here gives us bee-keepers an advantage over those
where it is warmer and the Heather naturally earlier but shorter in
duration.

Owing to the prolonged spell of stormy weather during the
best of the Heather bloom the yield of honey is not' so great as it
might have been, but on the whole is fairly good ; and now with
the improved weather at the end more may be added. It is rather
singular to witness honey gathering, swarming, and frosty weather
at same time, but experience gives confidence, and is more reliable
and valuable than theory.

From one hive there has been an increase of eleven, while other
four have been frustrated, making sixteen in all had they been
allowed. As my time is limited, further particulars I will hold
over till later on, when I will give them in a concise form for the
benefit of beginners ; and, I may add, for modern bee-keepers in
general. — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

Preparing for Winter.

Those who already possess stocks must, unless the bees are
taken to the moors, at once begin to prepare for winter ; each
stock must be fed up to a sufficient weight, and if need be
strengthened by an addition of driven bees, in accordance with the
instructions given in these columns, and then when every attention
has been paid to these salient points the less the bees are disturbed
until March next the better it will be for the stocks. If it is
desired to ruin a stock late feeding and continued manipulation in
the late autumn will soon do its deadly work ; but if strong,
prosperous colonies are desired that can be had with as little
trouble and not much more expense than starveling stocks, which,
dragging on a weary existence through the winter, are a discredit to
any bee-keeper, and a sign of lamentable slothfulness and neglect.

Bees must be kept strong, and the fact can never be too often
impressed upon bee-keepers in general, and some in particular,
that one strong stock is of more value than three weak ones, and
with less time expended on it in the way of manipulation will
give greater results than the three weak ones put together.
True, in exceptional cases a weak stock does in spring make
a rapid advance, but this is only by way of exception owing
to a young and vigorous queen ; but even this rapid progress

is not in the same ratio as that which a strong stock, headed
by an equally good queen, would make under the same circum¬
stances. — F. -

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Dobie & Dicks, 66, Deansgate, Manchester. — Dutch Bulis.

James Douglas, Edenside, Great Bookham, Surrey. — Catalogue of
Carnations, Picotees, and Auriculas.

C. Turner, Royal Nursery, Slough. — Hyacinths, Narcissus, Tulips,

R. Veitch & Son, High Street, Exeter. — Dutch Bulls, ^'C.

•,j*All correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Wasps (<S. A). — If you consult the last few issues of the Journal
of Horticulture you will, we think, find recorded all the known
remedies for destroying wasps ; but after all that is done the plague
continues, and each fruit grower must adopt the best local measures
available for saving his fruit. There is no universal panacea, any more
than there is for ridding the world of flies and various insect pests.

Glands on Peacb Iieaves (^Ignoramus'). — The glands are minute
wart-like growths at the extreme base of the leaves, and in some
instances are round and in others kidney shaped. In some varieties of
Peaches and Nectarines the glands are visible enough, in others more
or less obscure, while a few are glandless. Examine a number of leaves
of different varieties closely, and your eye will soon become educated on
the subject of glands.

Exhibiting^ Shallots (H. Bell). — You ask if the Shallot is a
vegetable on the ground that “ a friend was disqualified because he
placed a dish consisting of one variety in a collection of vegetables.”
We have many times intimated that the schedules of shows should
accompany questions of this nature, in order that we may see the
precise conditions under which exhibits must be staged. Of course the
Shallot is a vegetable, but all the same, may not be admissible in
certain classes, according to special stipulations which, if ignored,
might result in disqualification.

Grapes Shanklngr after Rlpenlngr (B. C. N.). — There is such a
thing as Grapes shanking after they are ripe, both when they are
hanging on the Vines whilst these are in leaf, and after the Grapes
have been bottled and placed in the Grape room. One form of shanking
is caused by a micrococcus, and produces an enlarged or ulcered con¬
dition of the footstalk prior to the shanking, and it is likely that
shrinkage of the footstalk without the ulceration may be caused by the
same micro-organism, but this is as yet undetermined, and in fact, no
malignant bodies have been discovered in the wire-like shanked footstalks.

Nectarines Shrlvelllngr (Cestria). — The shrinking generally
occurs at the apex, and is rather common with the fruits borne by
young or vigorous trees, and the fruit partakes more or less of the
nature of the growth. When such fruits ripen the watery matter is
dissipated, and as this is most abundant where the swelling has
been greatest they shrivel. The shrinkage is generally confined
to Nectarines, Peaches under the same conditions being little
affected, as they retain more of the watery matter in ripening, and
the evaporation takes place more evenly through their having downy
skins. The fruits affected are not really a defect of culture. Perhaps
a slight shade in very bright weather would have prevented the
shrinking ; but the best preventive is plenty of air, taking care not
to over-feed the trees.

Clematis Falling: (Tom Ridley). — We have examined all the
sprays you forwarded, and have been unable to find any parasite likely
to cause the appearance presented by No. 3 spray. No. 2 is, as you say,
“ beginning to go,” but you have not sent that part where the mischief
begins, and the collapse of the portion above the seat of the malady is
only a question of a few days and sometimes hours. No. 1 is healthy ;
in fact, all the sprays are free from malignant micro-organisms, for, as
before stated, the attacked parts have not been sent. This is sometimes
situated on the stem and at the node or joint next the root on which the
variety is grafted, then the plant collapses altogether, and often the same
year as planted. But the attack is generally confined to the base of the
annual growths where they spring from the preceding year’s wood, and

August 31, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

209

it is not restricted to the first, but the secondary growths collapse in a
similar manner. It is occasioned by a fungus or micrococci which girdles
the shoot, and causes the collapse of the part above the affection. It is
confined to certain species of Clematis, and is culturally believed to be
due to over-propagation, but this is purely conjectural. The only thing
we have found of any use is to promptly cut away the affected parts a
joint or two below where they die off ; but the disease is, in some cases,
so fixed in the basal portion as to be beyond remedy, Jfor to cut the
affected parts away in some cases means the destruction of the plants.
It is best to limit yourself to those varieties which succeed the best in
the position assigned to them.

TrufBes (iZ. B,'). — The lump of soil sent contains what resembles
Truflles, but in such a state of putrefaction that it is impossible to speak
with certainty on the subject. The common Truffle (Tuber mstivum),
as described by Thompson in the “ Gardener’s Assistant,” “ is nearly
spherical in shape, and has been known to attain a weight of 3 or 4 lbs.,
and measure 4 inches in diameter. The surface is rough, warty, and black.
The flesh is greyish, or white when young, black veined with white
when old. The smell is powerful, but by no means unpleasant. It
grows from 2 to 10 inches under the surface of the ground, and the spots
where it is to be found are discovered by means of dogs trained for the
purpose. It is abundant in some parts of Britain, particularly in Wilt¬
shire, Kent, and Hampshire, but never occurs in any but calcareous
foils, where it grows under the shade of trees, generally the Oak and
Beech. In warm moist years it may be found throughout the year, but
most abundantly from August to October.” We reproduce a fine specimen

Fia. 30. — BLACK TRUFFLE.

of the black Truffle. Just as many aerial fungi only grow on dead wood,
and that of a particular kind, so the black Truffle is only met with among
the roots of trees, and more especially the common and Evergreen Oak
and Quercus coccifera. It is among the roots of these trees that the
Truffles are most abundant, and acquire a perfume that makes them
esteemed all over the world. Truffles increase like other allied fungi.
When ripe they contain minute spores not exceeding 1 250th of an inch
in diameter, and when the Truffle decays in the ground these produce
white threads or mycelium, like Mushroom spawn when running, and
a fresh crop results.

nrames of Fruits. — Notice. — Special attention is directed to the
following decision, the object of which is to discourage the growth of
inferior and promote the culture of superior varieties. In consequence
of the large nuniber of worthless Apples and Pears sent to this office to
be named, it has been decided to name only specimens and varieties of
approved merit, and to reject the inferior, lohich are not worth sending
or growing. The names and addresses of senders of fruit to be named
must in all cases be enclosed with the specimens, whether letters
referring to the fruit are sent by post or not. The names are not
necessarily required for publication, initials sufficing for that. Only six
specimens can be named at once, and any beyond that number cannot
be preserved. (J, H. Eldridge'). — The Apples are evidently seedlings,
as we do not recognise them as among named sorts. No. 1 is not unlike
Irish Peach ; Pears No. 2 quite rotten, and No. 1 resembles Verulam.
(B. IP.). — No. 1, Greenup’s Pippin ; 2, Fearn’s Pippin ; 3, small Scarlet
Nonpareil ; 4, Cellini. {F. John Gray').— Ribston Pippin ; 2, Dutch
Codlin, small ; 3, not known ; 4, Reinette de Caux ; 5, Yorkshire Green¬
ing ; 6, Emperor Alexander. (^A.II.L.). — 1, Wadhurst Pippin ; 2, Lord
Derby ; 3, Beurr4 d’Amanlis ; 4, Summer Rose ; 5, Greenup’s Pippin ;
6, Lemon Pippin. (J. R. B. Watson). — 1, Grosse Calebasse ; 2, Beurr6
Superfin ; 3, too unripe. (^E, J. M.). — Undoubtedly Golden Queen.
(IF. P. S.). — Nouveau Poiteau. (Z>. M.). — The coloured Pear, which is
quite ripe, is Beurrd d’Amanlis, but we do not think the other is the
same ; Apples — No. 1, Greenup’s Pippin ; 2, Ribston Pippin ; 3, decayed ;
4, Gravenstein. (J. F. TP.).— We cannot name Peaches without a
portion of the young wood and information as to the size of the flewers ;
the one sent is evidently one of Mr, Rivers’ seedlings, probably Early

Louise. (5. Welhs). — 5, Emperor Alexander. The others not worth
naming or growing except for cider. {E. H.), — 1, Norfolk Colman ; 2,
Striped Beefing ; 3, Winter Hawthornden ; 4, Greenup’s Pippin.

(A. E.). — 1, Sandringham ; 2, Blenheim Pippin ; 3, Ecklinville ; 5, Cox’s
Pomona ; 6, Lord Derby (?). (ZZi R. Bugmore). — 1, Napoleon ; 2, Mard-
chal de Cour ; 3, Grosse Calebasse ; 4, Beurr6 d’Aremberg ; 6, Winter
Nelis. Six is the maximum number to send, and the better they are
the better their chance of being named. {Thos. Pye). — Lane’s Prince
Albert (?) ; 2, Alfriston ; 3, Winter Hawthornden ; 4, Roundway
Magnum Bonum. (A. J. N.). — 1, Louise Bonne of Jersey ; 2, Nouveau
Poiteau ; 3, General Toddleben ; 4, Marie Louise ; 5 and 6, Beurrd
Capiaumont. {J. S. B.). — 1, Dredge’s Fame ; 3, Scarlet Nonpareil ;
4, Court Pendfi Plat ; 5, Cox’s Orange Pippin. Late truits should be
sent nearer the ripening period.

ITames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,-
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
(Hi J. P.). — Oncidium microchilum. (H. F,). — Dendrobium canali-
culatum. _

OOVENT GARDEN MARKET. — AUGUST 30th.

Large supplies, readily changing hands at lo-w rates.

FRUIT.

s. d. s. d.

Apples, per bushel . . . . 1 0 to 6 0

„ Tasmanian, per case 0 0 0 0

,, Nova Scotia, brl. 0 0 0 0

Cherries, half sieve .... 0 0 0 0

Cobs . 25 0 0 0

Filberts, per 100 lbs. ., 25 0 0 0

Gooseberries, half sieve .. 0 0 0 0

VEGETABLES.

Grapes per Ib .

Lemons, case . . . ,

Oranges, per 100 ..

Peaches, per doz.
Plums, per half sieve
St. Michael Pines, each
Strawberries, per lb. . ,

Asparagus, per bundle . .
Beans, Kidney, per lb.

Beet, Red, dozen .

Carrots, bunch .

Cauliflowers, dozen' .. ..

Celery, bundle .... . .

Ooleworts, dozen bunches
Cucumbers, dozen . . . .

Endive, dozen .

Herbs, bunch .... . .

Leeks, bunch .

Lettuce, dozen .

Mushrooms, punnet , . , .

AVERAGE

d. s. d.
0 to 0 0
4

0 4
2 0

0 2
0 9
0 9

0 0
0 0
1 0
1 0

Mustard and Cress, punnet

Onions, bunch .

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

Parsnips, dozen .

Potatoes, per cwt .

Salsafy, bundle .

Scorzonera, bundle .. ..

Seakale, per basket . . . .

Shallots, per lb .

Spinach, bushel . .

Tomatoes, per lb .

Turnips, bunch .

WHOLESALE PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.
Orchid Blooms in variety.

d.

3.

d.

0

9 to

2

0

10

0

J5

0

0

0

0

0

1

6

8

0

1

6

2

S

2

0

5

0

0

0

0

0

s.

d.

B.

d.'

0

2 to

0

0

0

3

0

s

2

0

3

0

1

0

0

0

2

0

4

s

1

0

1

6

1

6

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

3

0

0

8

0

0

0,

0

3

0

4

0

4

0

S

s.

d.

s.

d

8.

d.

s.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms ..

2

0 to 4

0

Marguerites, 12 bunches , .

2

0 to 4

0

Asters (French), per bunch

0

9

1

3

Mignonette, 12 bunches , .

2

0

4

0

„ (English) doz. bches.

3

0

5

0

Myosotis, dozen bunches . .

1

6

3

0

Bouvardias, bunch ,. ..

0

6

1

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

0

12 , 6

Carnations, 12 blooms . ,

0

6

2

0

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

9

0

Carnations, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

. i 5'

Chrysanthemums, dozen

bunches .

3

0

s

0

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Primula (double), dozen

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis.

1

0

2

0

sprays .

0

6

1

6

Cornflower, dozen bunches.

1

0

2

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

‘ 6

0

Buoharis, dozen .

1

6

4

0

Roses (indoor), dozen . .

0

6

1

6

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

„ Red, doz. bunches ..

4

0

6

0

Lilium lancifolium, dozen

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

0

blooms .

1

6

3

0

„ Yellow, dozen .. ..

O

0

4

0

Lilium longiflornm 12

Stocks, dozen bunches . ,

4

0

8

0

blooms .

2

0

4

0

Sweet Peas, doz. bimches..

2

0

4

0

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

Tuberoses, 12 blooms. . . .

0

4

0

6

bunches .

4

0

6

0

,

PLANTS

IN POTS.

S.

d.

3.

d.

3.

d.

3.

d.

Arbor Vitse (golden) dozen

6

0 to 12

0

Fuchsia, per dozen . . . .

5

0

to 9

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Hydrangea, per dozen

12

0

24

0

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

Ivy Geraniums .

4

0

6

0

Balsams, per dozen . . . .

3

0

6

0

Lilium lancifolium per doz.

12

0

18

0

Campanula, per dozen . .

9

0

18

0

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen

12

0

24

0

Drac»na terminalis, per

Lycopodiums, per dozen ..

3

0

4

0

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . .

6

0

12

0

Dractena viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Mignonette, per doz .

4

0

6

0

Euonvmus, var., dozen . .

6

0

18

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24

0

Palms, in var., each .. ..

1

0

15

0

Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

4

0

18

0

„ (specimens) .. ..

21

0

63

0

Ferns (small) prr Jvindred

4

0

6

0

Pelargoniums, per dozen,.

6

0

12

0

Ficus elastica, each . .

1

0

7

6

„ scarlet, per dozen. .

2

0

4

0

Foliage plants, var., each. ,

2

0

10

0

Rhodanthe, per dozen

4

0

6

0

THE DAIRY— FODDER CROPS.

Among dairy farmers having nothing but permanent pasture
for the cows, there is much complaining of poverty of herbage,
and a consequent lowness of milk yield. This, for the moment

210

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ August 31, 1893,

is bad enough, but the outlook for the coming winter is still
more gloomy. Where is the Michaelmas rent to come from ?
and how are the cows to be fed next winter ? are questions to
which no satisfactory answer appears forthcoming from that
section of the farming community who, placing their dependence
entirely upon pasture, have been content to take all they could
get from it, without spending a penny upon manure of any sort,
and with as little expenditure as possible upon labour. In
ordinary seasons, with an average rainfall, this answers suffi¬
ciently to enable them to pay their rent, to obtain means for
subsistence, and to “ keep the money together ; ” or, in other
words, to keep capital invested in the business intact. But the
folly and risk of such a system, of such absurd parsimony, is
only too apparent under stress of a drought, when the pasture
fails them, and they have nothing else on the farm to turn to.
Then the underfed cows quickly fall off in condition, there is a
proportionate decrease in the milk yield, which, of course, tells
upon the milk sold, or the butter and cheese made, as well as
upon the quantity of such produce.

Of the cheese rooms we have inspected this season, the only
one that is really satisfactory in both quantity and quality of
cheese is that of a Midland tenant farmer, who not only system¬
atically applies manure to his pasture, but also has enough arable
land to afford a supply of other green crops, roots, and com.
He also employs sufficient labour to have all necessary work
done well and quickly. In this matter his views are peculiar,
aa he will only have young men and lads who board and lodge
at the farmhouse, and who have to work with him. In a new
farmhouse and homestead in course of construction for him
we have taken care to have enough bedrooms for his require¬
ments, so anxious are we to encourage good, sound, sensible
practice on the estate. We have also given him special facilities
and convenience in the outbuildings, but as all this will be
explained in another article, we refrain from further mention
of it now.

Our especial object here is to call attention to green crops,
which have proved useful under the great drought, while pasture
has failed so generally, but not universally. It is important to
mention this, because though the valleys of the Trent, Wye,
and Derwent in Derbyshire ; of the Soar in Leicestershire, and
many a rich alluvial “ level,” marsh, and fen, have had abundant
herbage for grazing, and a full hay crop, we have also seen
excellent pasture at hill farms where good management and
thorough cultivation of the pasture prevails.

Of all auxiliary green crops none have told better this summer
than green Maize. No doubt it was the spring drought that
induced much more of it to be sown than usual, but still there
is not half enough of it grown. Well does a correspondent in
The Field ask why stock-owners do not try it more generally ?
He goes on to say, “ There is a stupid prejudice that it is a
tropical plant which is quite unsuitable to our English climate.
But this is not true. If the farmer were advised to grow the
grain it would be quite another matter, but at least in the
southern half of England a large crop of green Maize is as
certain as Turnips, more certain than Mangolds, and withal the
simplest and cheapest crop to grow which can be mentioned.
This is the seventh year the writer has taken a crop without
a failure, although with one partial failure. Curiously, the great
value of Maize is felt in years like the present, inasmuch when
grass suffers for want of rain and great heat Maize flourishes
best if it has firm hold of the soil. At almost all times in normal
years the pastures are bare in autumn, just when Maize comes
in ; milk consequently falls off when it is most valuable on
account of its superior quality. How opportune, then, comes
the daily waggonload of Maize, which is strewn about the
pastures and eaten up, stock, lock, and barrel, by the ravenous
cattle, whose partiality for it is sufficient to convince the feeder
of its value.”

Sorghum saccharatum has been of equal value this year.
Both crops grow with such freedom, yield so large a bulk of
nutritious succulent food per acre, develop with such marvellous
rapidity, and are alike useful as green food or for silage, tliat
they should be regarded as indispensable. In so hot a summer
Maize answers everywhere. We have seen recently Maize of a
good height on the borders of Yorkshire. Both these grand
forage plants are exceedingly nutritious. The Sorghum may
perhaps be the more fattening of the two as it is so rich in
saccharine. We have tasted excellent sugar made from plants
grown in this country.

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

The Early Drumhead Cabbages drilled in April bid fair to be ready
for use before the green Maize is finished. This is what we particularly
aim at — this overlapping of successional crops. Anything like the free
growth of Cabbage or Kale this summer has only been possible where
land was really well done. As the Rye folds were ploughed the drill
followed at once day by day ; there was thus plenty of moisture in the
soil to make quick seed germination a certainty, and the land was so
rich in fertility that plant growth was equally speedy. Trifolium
incamatum, the crimson fiowered Italian Clover, has been got in well
on a clean stubble, nicely softened by rain, so much so that only light
Barley harrows were used. These were passed over the stubbles first,
then the seed — 28 lbs. to the acre — was sown broadcast, well worked in
by bush harrows, which were followed by a light roller.

A field of Sutton’s Giant Evergreen Italian Rye Grass sown early
in September proves most useful throughout the following year. Sow
3 bushels of seed per acre, and take care that it has rich land ; it is then
invaluable as green food in stables and cow-house, for bay, for silage,
and for sheep-folds, a fold of “ Italian ” being generally regarded as
equal to three folds on pasture, because it affords food for three times
the number of sheep that the best pasture does. On poor land it is
comparatively worthless, and the seed is wasted, for though it may
germinate freely the plant comes yellow in bine, and its growth is so
stunted as to be worthless. Under the high cultivation of which it is so
worthy it continues growing freely from early spring till late in autumn,
giving crop after crop of marvellous abundance, no fodder crop known
to us being more useful. We place some stress upon this because of the
popular idea that this grand crop requires a sewage farm. Unquestion¬
ably it, like green Maize, gives a much greater bulk cf crop under the
advantage of irrigation, but we need only to take care to sow on land
rich in fertility to obtain heavy crops of both. We have long held it in
high esteem for its earliness, coming into use as it does before mixed
seeds or ordinary pasture.

OUR LETTER BOX.

Brewers’ Grains for Cows (A. C. C. 2>.). — Brewers’ grains should
be used in moderation for cows when the milk is required for butter,
of which they 'are liable to affect the fiavour injuriously if used as a
principal article of diet. They are considered to promote a full yield
of milk and are used freely where milk is sold for immediate con¬
sumption. Stored in large quantities in a compact mass, grains keep
sweet and wholesome for months, and we recommend the use of them
with due caution for all cows while fodder is so scarce and the price of
hay is so high.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamden Squark, London.

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

Date.

9 A.M.

In the DAT.

Bain.

1893.

August.

1 Barometer

1 at 32°, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday . .

20

29-852

72-5

62-3

S.W.

68-0

77*3

59-4

118-7

55-2

0-022

Monday . .

21

29-650

68-1

64-8

S.

66-9

77-8

63-7

124-9

60-1

0-012

Tuesday . .

22

29-869

67-2

60-1

S.

66 2

74-4

55-2

119-1

50-2

0-010

Wednesday

23

29-976

65-0

58-1

S.

65-8

65-8

57-1

96-3

54-8

0-249

Thursday . .

24

30-073

63-2

56-9

S.W.

63-8

72-7

51-7

1-/4-1

488

—

Friday

25

30-276

63-1

56-2

W.

62-9

73-6

51-0

125-9

48-1

—

Saturday . ,

26

30-272

61-2

54-3

N.W.

62-2

68-4

49-7

110-5

45-2

—

29-995

65-7

59-0

65-1

72-9

55-4

117-1

51-8

0-292

REMARKS.

20th. — Occasional sunshine in morning, shower at 3’30 p.m. ; fair evening.

21st. — Cloudy, with frequent slight rain; sun in afternoon, fresh breeze; fine evening.

22nd.— Cloudy, with bright sun occasionally early and throughout day, fresh breeze ;
dark and heavy, with strong wind at 5 p.m.

23rd. — Dull, with slight rain early, and rain at 9.20 A.M., dark at 11.15, and rain up tO'
3 P.M., then fair.

24th. — Overcast early, a little sun during morning with strong breeze, sunny rest of
day; fine night.

25th. — Bright and sunny morning, a little cloud at 2.10 P.M. ; sun bright at times in
afternoon, but generally overcast ; fine night.

26th. — Bright and sunny throughout.

A fine week, and though nearly 10° colder than the previous one it has been above

the average temperature.-^. J. Symons.

September 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDE NEIL

211

PLUMS generally are more impatient of a forcing atmosphere
than any other stone fruit. This, however, does not pre¬
clude the successful cultivation of the choicer varieties under
glass, for with properly constructed and well managed houses
Plums of the highest excellence may be readily obtained. Lean-to
structures erected against south-east, south, or south-west walls
answer admirably, provided they are well ventilated, the border
thoroughly drained, and adequate supplies of water given the
trees. The side and top lights should open the whole length of
the house, and the roof lights be moveable. Cases 6 feet in width
will accommodate trees on walls and others on a low trellis in front,
say to the extent of one-third the distance up the sloping roof.
The front trees may be trained as cordons, and, duly restricted at
the roots, they bear abundantly. This plan, however, is not so
good as training half standard trees to a trellis fixed 9 to 12 inches
from the glass, the stems being the height of the front lights. Less
space is afforded by this method, but the fruit attains to greater
perfection and is more abundant than on trees trained to the wall.
When the house is 10 feet or more in width, bush, pyramid, or
low-stemmed trees with round heads may be grown with great
advantage in front, either planted out or in tubs, and so arranged
as not to deprive the trees on the back wall of too much light.
Grand Plums are also grown in wall cases by planting the trees
in front, one to each rafter, and training them up the roof as
cordons. This does not prejudicially affect Peach or Nectarine
trees on the wall.

Span-roofed houses with the ends north and south, or north-east
and south-west, are suitable for standard Plum trees — the best
of all methods of training stone fruits under glass. A row of trees
can be disposed in the centre, and a row on each side of the house.
It is imperative that the trees have stems so high that their heads
will be exposed to full light. If grown in pots it matters little
what form the trees are in, nor what height or width the house
may be if it is light and airy. In exposed localities it has been
recommended to sink the floor of the house somewhat below the
surface, so as to secure the advantage of earth heat, and facilitate
the covering of the roof with mats or canvas in severe weather.
The great objection to sunk houses is damp, especially in low sites.
With the trees in pots the roof lights may be fixed, as they can be
transferred anywhere at will, and the grand secret of success in the
culture of Plums in cool houses is keeping the trees dormant as
late as possible, with the soil in a thoroughly moist condition.
Excessive dryness at the roots as a means of forcing the trees to
become and remain dormant till late in the spring often causes the
buds to fall. When the trees are fully exposed from the fall of
the leaves to the bursting of the buds inactivity and the soundness
of the buds are assured during the resting season, and Plum trees
take no harm whatever in the severest weather when the pots are
plunged over the rims in ashes. An orchard house with boarded
sides, not so close as to entirely deprive the trees of light on frosty
nights and on cold days when the house is shut, hinged boards at
the sides opening the full length of the structure provide efficient
ventilation, and the roof glazed with large panes of glass, is the
exact position for growing Plum trees in pots. This site affords
sufficient shelter against our uncertain springs, insures the perfect
ripening of the fruit in cold, dull, wet seasons, and prevents its

No. 689. — VOL. XXVII., Thied Series.

deterioration hy throwing off rains and keeping it safe from
dews and fogs.

The early and late varieties are invariably excellent for growing
under glass, but the crackling-fleshed and high quality midseason
varieties, as the Gage race, Jefferson and Kirke’s, do not always
finish satisfactorily, the fruit turning soft and shrinking instead of
ripening. The late Mr. T. Rivers advised trees of these Plums to
be removed to a warm and sheltered situation outdoors for ripening ;
it is an excellent plan provided means are taken to protect the fruit
from rain, otherwise it cracks in wet weather. This method can only
be adopted with trees in pots. For planted-out trees careful attention
is necessary in ventilating, watering, and feeding during the early
stages of growth, with plenty of air moisture when the fruit is
swelling, especially at night in dry hot summers. Air at the time
of ripening cannot be too freely admitted, as it is excessive
evaporation which causes the fruit to ripen prematurely and be soft
and poor in flavour. Oullins Golden is very handsome and as good
as it looks, but the tree grows too freely to fruit well, yet it
frequently does better under glass than in the garden. Denniston’s
Superb admits no rival in its season for crop and quality. McLaughlin
may be described as a large Green Gage with a fine perfume.
Brahy’s Green Gage is earlier than the old Green Gage and larger ;
it certainly is one of the most delicious Plums. Early Trans¬
parent Gage is excellent for growing as cordons and in pots, but
the fruit requires to be somewhat severely thinned. Green Gage
bears enormously when the soil is firm and the roots restricted or
root-pruned. Transparent Gage grows vigorously, and it requires
a firm soil and restriction at the roots or root-pruning. Purple
Gage shrivels, and is richly flavoured accordingly. Lawson’s
Golden Gage affords a pleasing variety and is excellent in quality.
Guthrie’s Late Green and Reine Claude de Bavay, with Late
Transparent Gage, continue the supply up to October, and col¬
lectively comprise a dozen of the richest Plums in cultivation.
They are all, except Purple Gage, greenish yellow, or yellow
streaked or blotched with green or purple. Bryanston Gage also
ripens late in September, and the tree is very prolific. Few, if
any. Plums are richer flavoured than Angelina Burdett, and being
black with brown spots is of good appearance. Of other Plums
for dessert Early Favourite ripens as soon as any, followed by
De Montfort, Jefferson, Kirke’s, Coe’s Golden Drop, and Ickworth
Imperatrice, so that with a judicious selection choice fruit can be
had from trees in a cool house from July to November inclusive.
The following are also good for dessert or culinary when grown
under glass— Czar, Belgian Purple, Sultan, Denbigh, Victoria,
Italian Prune, Prince Englebert, Washington, Monarch, Imperial
de Milan, Blue Imperatrice, and Grand Duke. All may be grown
as cordons, planting the trees about 2 feet apart, and training the
stems about 1 foot from the glass. If the trees are fan-trained
fewer varieties will be required. Denniston’s Superb, Brahy’s
Green Gage, Jefferson, Transparent Gage, Kirke’s, and Coe’s
Golden Drop cannot well be excelled for affording a succession of
choice fruit.

Whether the trees are planted out or grown in pots they
require a rather stiff soil. Good calcareous strong loam interspersed
with small stones or flints needs no admixture for borders. Efficient
drainage, consisting of 3-inch drains to carry off superfluous water,

1 foot depth of rubble, preferably brickbats with a 3-inch top
layer of old mortar rubbish, and 18 to 24 inches depth of soil a^e
necessary for borders. For pots or restricted borders a fourth part
of well decayed manure to three of stiff maiden loam, with a 9- inch
potful of bonemeal and a quart of soot added to every 3 bushels
of compost, are suitable. If the soil is deficient of grit and lime add
a fifth part of sifted old mortar rubbish, and if turfy use Thomas’s
phosphate instead of bone dust. The pots should be drained
thoroughly with crocks or oystei shells. Make the soil firm and allow
sufficient space for helding water. Planting or potting is best done
immediately the leaves have fallen. Potted trees ought to be plunged

No. 2345.— VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

212

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 7, 1893.

in ashes, and it is desirable to allow them to make a year’s growth
outdoors before they are placed under glass for fruiting. When
trees two or three years from the bud or graft, and especially in
pots, can be had, it is better to purchase such than to rear them,
and being furnished with blossom buds a crop of fruit may be had
the first year.

If the trees are placed outdoors each winter (after the fruit is
gathered in the case of early varieties), they should be returned to
the house before the buds are so far advanced as to show colour,
allowing plenty of room for the development of the growth, and
standing each pot on two or more bricks on the flat a little distance
asunder, so that the roots will not pass into the soil, whilst insuring
a free passage for the water. Such trees can be moved at any time
without prejudice to the growth. When the trees are kept under
glass constantly the ventilators should be wide open during the
winter whenever the temperature is above freezing point, but when
frost prevails they ought to be kept closed. The trees also
should be placed close together, so that they can be protected from
frost by a covering of dry hay or straw between and over the potsj
standing them apart in the spring. Similar remarks apply to planted-
out trees in respect of ventilation under fixed roofs in winter, but
the better plan is to remove the roof lights when the leaves have
fallen and keep them off until the spring.

Under the circumstances indicated the trees will start naturally
in the spring, and from this time forward a circulation of air, except
in severe weather, should always be maintained by leaving the
ventilators open more or less day and night. Abundance of air
and a dry atmosphere is the only way to secure a proper set of
fruit. By the time the fruits are set and swelling the sun will
have considerable power, and may be taken advantage of to
accelerate the growth by reducing the ventilation in the afternoon,
yet leaving some, airing early each morning, and when the wind
is sharp and cold ventilate on that side opposite its direction. In
the summer the ventilators should be kept constaEtly open.

The trees must never be distressed for lack of a supply of
water ; one flagging ruins the crop for the season, and trees in
pots are successful in proportion to the watering and nourishment.
The soil must always be kept moist. Trees in pots require water
twice, sometimes three times a day in the summer ; also top-dressings
of rich compost, preferably pieces of turf, to encourage plenty of
surface roots, which can be fed to any extent by liquid manure and
sprinklings of chemical fertilizers occasionally. Trees in borders
will require water less frequently, that depending on root area, the
spread of the top and the crop, but there must not be any deficiency
of moisture or want of food. Over-watering and over-feeding must
not be indulged in, for the Plum is impatient of extremes, but
liberal treatment should be accorded if the trees are expected to
produce full crops annually. As the fruit advances in ripening
lessen the supplies of water and withhold liquid manure, but the
foliage must not be allowed to become limp or to flag.

From the time the fruit is set until it begins to ripen the trees
should be syringed in the morning, also in the afternoon, except on
dull cold days, when a genial atmosphere may be secured by damp¬
ing the paths and borders when they become dry. Syringing the
trees must cease when the fruit commences to ripen, and the
atmospheric moisture be gradually reduced, but a little of the latter
will not do any harm provided the air is not stagnant, and it is
necessary for the perfecting of the fruit and the health of the
foliage. Hexagon netting over the ventilators, and frame doors
covered with it, are necessary to exclude bluebottle flies and wasps,
otherwise use the thinnest muslin over the trees or enclose the
fruits in bags of that material. After the fruit is removed recourse
must be had to syringing, watering, and proper supplies of nourish¬
ment for the perfecting of the wood and buds for next year’s crop.
Early varieties in pots should be placed outdoors as soon as the
fruit is gathered, assigning them a sunny position, and duly
attended to in watering and syringing. Midseason varieties may
be treated similarly, also the late sorts as they are cleared of fruit.

Repotting or top-dressing is best done before the leaves fall. The
object to be kept in view is to secure fresh roots in new material,
therefore remove as much old compost as possible without exces¬
sive root disturbance, not carrying the reduction too far, and
ram the soil firmly. In top-dressing trees in borders the old
mulching should be removed, and fresh supplied after loosening
the surface. If the trees are growing too luxuriantly a few of the
stronger roots may be severed and removed. When the trees
grow exuberantly they should be carefully lifted and root-pruned,
replanting with the roots near the surface, and well firming the
soil. If the trees are unsatisfactory or weakly lift them, remove
the old soil, and replant in fresh compost over good drainage.

Training and pruning are the next points to consider. Bush,
pyramid, and round headed trees on stems are best for pots or
planting-out. Standard trees are unequalled for the latter purpose,
and are easily formed by heading at the height required. Pyramids
merely require the side shoots pinched and the leader stopped to
secure them. Summer pinching may be practised twice or even
three times on the leader, and the side shoots once or twice to four
or ^x leaves, avoiding overcrowding the growths, otherwise the
fruits are deteiorated for lack of air, and many of the spurs will be
too weak to produce fruit, the numerous dead spurs on Plum trees
being due to this cause. Pruning may be performed in the spring, as
the buds are then easier distinguished by the inexperienced, but as
soon as the fruit is gathered is the best time. As a rule Plum
trees under glass should be trained for fruit first and form after¬
wards, that is, pinching, disbudding, and thinning must not be
carried too far, for growth is necessary for the production of fruit,
its development, and perfect finish. Trees on trellises or walls
require the usual summer and winter pruning, but the spur system
is not by any means the best for the Plum under glass. The trees
being on front or roof trellises are best treated on the alternative
system, in which the shoots are allowed to grow up to the glass,
only keeping them just clear, these being stopped and kept mode¬
rately thin. By thinning out the fruited branches annually, and
encouraging shoots to take their places, the trees are maintained in
youthful vigour, and the fruit produced is abundant and very fine.
Old trees that produce little beyond breastwood and leaves will
often yield enormous crops by laying-in young wood, which in the
second year will form bloom buds throughout its length and give
some fruit, and in the third year a good crop. — G. Abbey.

PROPAGATING BEDDING PLANTS.

The work of propagating bedding plants has perhaps this year
been delayed longer than usual, for the sake of preserving the full
beauty of the beds. It should, however, now be pushed on as fast
as possible, in order to get the cuttings well rooted before the dull
short days come. Judging from the appearance of Pelargonium
cuttings, there is every reason to suppose that fine plants, with a
small per-centage of losses, may be anticipated, as they are hard,
short-jointed, and entirely devoid of the soft sappy growth which
predominated last year. These favourable conditions should be
taken advantage of by making the cuttings somewhat shorter than
usual, so that the plants resulting therefrom may be sturdy from
the first. Cuttings with two or three joints will in the majority of
instances prove the best.

When placed in shallow boxes a couple of inches asunder large
numbers may be wintered in a limited space, but where there is
plenty of house or pit room during the winter I would strongly
advise inserting the cuttings at once in 3-inch pots. The labour
of potting at a busy time in the spring is then avoided, and plants
of the dwarfest habit are obtained. One crock only need be
placed over the base of each pot, a little rough leaf soil being
excellent material to cover this with: Whatever compost is used
for filling the pots with, it should be made somewhat light and
sandy by the addition of leaf mould and road sand. It is, how¬
ever, a mistake to use old and exhausted potting soil when this
pot system is practised, or the plants will not make progress in
the spring. A good proportion of fresh loam or moderate rich
garden soil should therefore be incorporated with the compost.
A sunny position on a bed of coal ashes in the open air is a capital
position in which to place the pots after the cuttings are inserted.
Should boxes be employed I like to place these on thin strips of

September 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

213

deal, so that the air may circulate under the boxes, and thus
prevent loss through damp.

Notwithstanding the great heat of the present summer Violas
have flowered so splendidly right up to the present time that we
have as yet inserted no cuttings ; the work will, however, be in
progress by the time these lines are in print. When a sufficient
number of young shoots spring from the base of the plants can be
obtiined we give them the preference, but in many instances these
do not suffice to supply our requirements ; the points of the old
shoots are then used. If these are stopped early in the spring they
make good plants. Any varieties which produce very few cuttings
may^ be quite cut down now, the old shoots cut into lengths con¬
taining two or three joints each, and be inserted in pans placed in
cool close pits. More cuttings will be produced from the old
plants by the end of September, and these if dibbled into light
soil placed in cold pits will make excellent plants. The Dairy¬
maid, a variety I have grown this year, has been very popular.
Early in the season the flower is ivory white, but as the summer
wanes the colour is French grey. Countess of Hopetoun is I
think still by far the best white variety, indeed, I know of no
other bedding plant which makes such a splendid white bed
during the summer months. All my gardening friends who visit
me are glad of a few cuttings of it when they do not already
possess that variety. The most of our cuttings are inserted in
front of a south wall in the ordinary garden soil, which is rather
light. A little road sand is first placed on the surface. The cuttings
are placed a couple of inches apart, and are well attended to in
the rnatter of being watered when they require it. They remain
in this position without any protection throughout the winter, and
only a very low percentage of losses are the result.

Coleus, Iresine, Alternantheras, Mesembryanthemums, Helio¬
trope, Cupheas, and similar plants root quickly and easily if
inserted in well-drained pots or pans which are stood in a pit or
frame, provided they are kept close, syringed once or twice daily,
and are shaded from bright sunshine. Should wet cold weather
set in the three first named plants, being somewhat tender, will
make more satisfactory progress if stood upon a hotbed or in a
heated pit, the great point to aim at being to get cuttings of all
kinds established as soon as possible after being inserted. To do
this they must not be allowed to flag after they are taken from the
parent plants. If greater attention were paid to this point we
should hear less complants about the difficulty of rooting cuttings
of all descriptions. — W. C.

SEASONABLE HINTS ON FLORIST FLOWERS.

Theee has probably never been a season more disappointing to
the cultivators of florist flowers than that of 1893. Everything
seemed turned topsy-turvy ; plants came into flower three weeks or
a month before their time, and the dates of exhibitions had to be
altered ; and now that the end of August has come we are asking
ourselves where are our autumnal flowers ? The long-continued
drought increased the difficulty, and to keep plants in good health
was no easy task.

Auriculas. — These, the earliest of florist flowers, were the
first to indicate the normal character of the season ; they were out
of flower fully three weeks before their usual time, and consequently
have had a longer time in their summer quarters than usual. So
far as I can see they have not suffered from this. I see few
summer deaths among my small collection, but altogether they
look well. They have not certainly suffered from drip, for there
was no rain to cause it. At present it will be necessary to go
carefully through the plants to take off all dead outside leaves,
remove weeds, and if there be any aphides either brush them off
carefully or fumigate the plants. In about a month’s time it will
be necessary to remove them to their winter quarters either in pits
or frames facing south, giving them all the air possible, but not
allowing them to get rain. I have this year reduced the size of the
pots in which the plants are grown, and this of course makes the
collection seem to be much smaller. I remember successful
cultivation being achieved by those who grew in both large and
small pots, and am therefore not sure whether I shall gain much by
the change.

Carnations and Picotees. — Here again the character of the
season has led to very unsatisfactory results, at least so far as my
own garden is concerned, owing to the excessive forwardness of the
plants, which necessitated the alteration of the date of the
Carnation Show. It was necessary to layer very early, for the
wood was ripe, and had it been left any longer layering would
have been a matter of very great difficulty. It was a choice of two
evils, for I feared that too early layering would lead to the layers
running up to bloom ; the weather of July being wet and com¬
paratively dull was favourable for them, and the layers rapidly

rooted. I now find that my fears were not groundless, as a con¬
siderable number have spindled for bloom, and will of course be
valueless. It will now be time to remove layers from the plants,
for notwithstanding all that has been said as to wintering them in
the open ground it is a hazardous thing, and I think it is much
better to remove the layers, and pot them and place them in
cold frames for the winter. They may be potted either singly
or in pairs, and by this method the plants will be very little
disturbed when they are planted out in the spring. It is
best to use simple compost in potting ; in fact, good loam with
a little sand is all that is needed. Where the plants are potted
in pairs they should be placed near the outside of the pot ; when
potted they ought to be removed to a close frame for two or
three days, watered, and afterwards have as much air as possible
given to them. By the end of September they may be removed
into a frame facing south, which can be left partially open night
and day. This will, of course, be the proper time for adding to
one’s collection, and it is remarkable how much more people’s
minds are turned towards the border varieties than to the old
florists’ kinds, not that I think that the latter will ever lose their
place in the estimation of the true florist ; the only thing likely to
effect that being the over-dressing to which they are subjected. It
is almost hopeless to have this remedied, although attempts have
been made by offering prizes for undressed flowers to get rid of
the practice.

Gladioli. — Here, again, the season has sadly interfered ; like
everything else, they were too early. In the west of England
they were mostly over in the second week of August, and here I
shall hardly have a flower left by the end of the month, whereas
in some years I have had a difficulty in getting a stand for the
Crystal Palace on the 6th and 7th of September owing to their not
being yet in flower. Notwithstanding the dry weather, or perhaps
in consequence of it, they have done better with me this year than
last. One result will be that the bulbs will be sooner fit for
lifting than in most years, and this will probably be in their favour
for a future bloom ; there will be, however, no necessity for inter¬
ference with them for some time. The earlier sections of the
Lemoinei and Nancianus groups will, however, soon be ready, as
they are earlier than the Gandavensis section. I do not lift these
every year, but protect them with a mulching of some sort. As,
however, I did not lift them last year I shall do so now. I have
found, singularly enough, that while my unprotected bulbs
perished in the winter 1891, thus dispelling the notion of their
hardiness, here at any rate, one of them, Duguesclin, has
survived, but so have some of the varieties of the Gandavensis, and,
therefore, I am afraid neither of the section can be pronounced
hardy.

Pansies. — The summer has always been in the South of
England a trying time for these plants, as the dryness of our
atmosphere does not seem to suit them ; they may now contract
mildew and perish. I find that many plants have gone off since
they were planted out. It will be necessary now to put in small
pots any cuttings that have rooted, and to divide the plants, cutting
off all straggling shoots and placing them in a cold frame, which
should be kept close for a few days until they are rooted.

Roses. — This exceptional season is now drawing to a close, and
certainly the last few weeks have wonderfully developed the
growth of our plants. I think it is now a very good plan to thin
out the weaker shoots and those which have done duty in flowering
this year. It gives more air to the plants, and consequently a
greater chance of ripening the wood. The long shoots which have
sprung up from the base should now be staked to prevent their
being blown about.

I have not included among florists’ flowers such as Phloxes,
Pentstemons, and other plants which have been by some
included amongst them, nor have I said anything about Tulips
and Ranunculus, because nothing can be done with them except
looking over the bulbs to see that they are not receiving any injury
from mildew ; neither have I included Pelargoniums or Fuchsias,
which are essentially greenhouse flowers. Neither can I admit
their right to be included in this division ; and yet it would be very
hard to say on what principle a Phlox is not to be considered a
florist’s flower while a Carnation is. But definitions are puzzling
things, and I have never met with one about florists’ flowers that
would go on all fours. — D., Deal.

FACTS AND THOUGHTS ABOUT APPLES.

It will, in all probability, be a long time before we again have
such splendid crops of Apples of the finest quality. Our English
grown Apples ought this year to hold their own against all comers,
for they apparently possess every desirable good quality, being
large, highly coloured, and of fine full flavour. Many varieticg

214

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 7, 1893.

which during ordinary seasons are quite unpalatable in an uncooked
state are this year tempting enough for dessert purposes, and
those which are generally considered the cream of dessert kinds
have a flavour far superior to that they usually possess. I noticed
this a few days ago when tasting several early Apples.

Worcestershire Pearmain, I thought, the best of all Apples of
the Codlin type, and is unusually good this season. The fruits,
being large and of great depth, are wonderfully attractive in appear¬
ance. Lord Suffield is carrying prodigious crops in this neighbour¬
hood, but in many instances the trees canker badly. Stirling Castle
is equally productive, but also suffers much from canker ; indeed, I
invariably notice that trees which are remarkable for their good crop¬
ping qualities are the first to succumb to this troublesome disease.
Lord Grosvenor seems to be rapidly replacing Lord Suffield in some
districts, but hereabouts (Warwick) Manks Codlin will, I think,
prove the best early cooking Apple to grow. It is a free and
certain bearer, the beautiful golden colour of the fruit renders it
more attractive in appearance than those cooking kinds above
enumerated. In the gardens here the trees show no traces of
canker. Ecklinville, Keswick Codlin, and Hawthornden have also
very heavy crops ; the former variety grows more freely than the
majority of early ones, and suffers but little from canker. The
latter should be extensively grown for home use, as it is frequently
preferred to other cooking kinds on account of its brisk and some¬
what sharp flavour. Colden Spire is a variety which I think ought
to be more extensively planted. In appearance it is extra fine, crops
well, and ripens a little later than Lord Suffield. I do not remember
ever having previously seen such good crops of Warner’s King as I
have met with this year. At the Castle Nursery Mr. J. Kitley
recently showed me two large bush trees carrying grand specimens
of this fine variety. A noteworthy fact in connection with them was
that the branches were bearing freely quite in the centre of the
trees, Mr. Kitley is a great believer in the practice of thinning the
branches freely and leaving them unshortened, and he considers his
success in Apple culture is in a great measure due to the fact
that he adopts this method. Very heavy crops of Devonshire
Quarrenden are this year prevalent around Warwick, and that
favourite local variety Wyken Pippin is also abundant. Neither
Cox’s Pomona nor Cox’s Orange Pippin (which with me usually
crop well), is this year very productive. On the other hand,
standard trees of Irish Peach, King of the Pippins, Worcester¬
shire Pearmain, and Kerry Pippin are loaded with fruits.

At one time Apples of all kinds promised to be undersized, but
since the late rains a wonderful improvement has taken place ;
and considering the heavy crops the trees are carrying many
of the fruits are remarkably large. These being ripened under the
influence of brilliant sunshine are firm, sound, and good in colour,
so that we may reasonably look forward to their keeping well.
Considering how very early gathering has to be commenced this
year it is well that the fruit can be stored in good condition.
Every possible care ought also to be exercised in storing, so as
to prolong the supply as much as possible. In seasons like the
present one, when Apples are so plentiful, the fruit room proper
will seldom accommodate the whole of the crop. The early varie¬
ties may then be conveniently stored in sheds and outhouses, in
which positions they generally keep in good condition if placed in
thin layers and kept cool and dark.

It seems to me that too many early varieties have during recent
years been planted, with the result that our markets are glutted
with Apples, which must be disposed of because they will not
keep. In a season like the present this is especially apparent.
What we want is a greater bulk of such late-keeping kinds as
Sturmer Pippin, Lane’s Prince Albert, and Northern Greening.
It is scarcely possible to say too much in favour of the first of
this trio, as it is a consistent cropper. The fruits will keep per¬
fectly sound and fresh till June, when it is good for both culinary
and dessert purposes. I shall be much mistaken if the abundant
yet early Apple crop of 1893 does not have the effect of causing
fruit growers to devote more attention to very late kinds, with
which I am sure they may successfully compete against those sent
by our kinsmen in the Antipodes. — H. Dunkin.

SOFT VERSUS HARD COLD WATER.

It is seldom that I do otherwise than content myself by pondering
over the pages of the Journal of Horticulture, reading the practical
and interesting articles from the pens of so many good writers, in most
cases sound and reliable authority ; so that in taking up my pen to
defend one of my secret ideas, which in a recent issue your correspondent,
“ W. P. W.,” has thought right to divulge, I may be pardoned for any
slight misgivings that naturally arise in publicly accepting the respon¬
sibility of an “eccentric idea,” if such it can be proved. I am still
under the impression that “ W. P. W.” has launched his boat upon a
troubled sea, and will find it diflScult to steer a straight course to

convince a practical gardener that “hard cold water” is little better than
slow poison to vegetation in general. The nourishing qualities of
“ hard cold water ” are rendered easily perceptible if constantly followed
by watering plants either in pots or planted out.

We will turn for a moment to the forcible query “W. P. W.” con¬
fronts us with — viz., “ What, I wonder, would the many persevering
amateurs do whose plants never receive any except hard water?” If
this statement means “hard cold water” direct from tap or pump, then
my compassion for such plants is fully aroused, and my advice to those
persevering earnest men who endeavour to keep vitality in their plants
by such means is. Abandon the idea. My answer to “ W. P. W.’s ”
query as to what those earnest amateurs would do is rather diificult to
frame. What they ought to do is easily answered — viz., those who are
living in towns, and have only “ hard cold water ” at command, ought,
in the first place, to procure a tub or cistern, and fix outside fully
exposed to the air, and in such a position to catch the full power of the
sun’s rays for a few hours during the day. This will be found to act
wonderfully upon the water. Nature, in this particular instance,
teaches most indisputable lessons which no theoretical knowledge can
d'spel. Is not vegetation in due season nourished with showers and
warmth according to their wants — warm showers in summer, cold
showers in winter? Therefore, those who are guided by Nature’s laws
in respect to water that must be artificially used will reap the surest
and greatest reward .

I claim that water used within a few degrees, more or less, of the
temperature of the soil to be moistened, is the truest guide to administer
nourishment to plants. “ Hard cold water ” used constantly during the
height of summer, produces a pale, stunted, sickly appearance upon
vegetation in general, and so attracts insects and diseases which might
otherwise be averted by timely thought and a little extra trouble, which
would be doubly repaid . Such water is not only injurious when admitted
to the roots of plants, but it is detrimental to the foliage if used for
syringing during the summer. Take, for instance, a Peach tree infested
with red spider. It is an impossibility to thoroughly eradicate this pest
with “hard cold water,” yet by constantly using soft or rain water this
troublesome insect can be mastered.

In conclusion, allow me to assure “ W. P. W.” upon his closing
remarks (page 168), that gardening with all its difficulties might be
made far more enjoyable, especially during such a trying season as we
have passed through, if gardeners and amateurs could but realise
the value of soft water, or hard water rendered soft and warm, as a
nourishing, health-producing stimulant to vegetation in place of the
easily obtained obnoxious drug, “ hard cold water.” I now leave the
subject in the hands and minds of readers of the Journal, and
“W. P. W.” in particular, to prove by practical demonstration that
my ideas are whimsical, and that I am deviating from established forms
before I accept the term “ eccentric.” — F. Dunn.

THE SPARROW QUESTION.

With due respect to Mr. J. Witherspoon (page 177), the facts which
I quoted (page 145) seem to test the strength of his faith to the utmost.
Thus squeezed he becomes fierce, and tries vainly to overturn them. He
may call us his opposers what he likes, “ selfish, short-sighted, wrathful,
&c.,” because we do not love the ways of the sparrow. He may scorn¬
fully ignore and condemn the charges made against these destructive
birds, but where is he going to stand while he thus throws dust into the
eyes of truth ? I know he stands alone, for he fishes for recruits. He throws
his hook and line across Mr. Editor’s path with a tempting bait of
persuasion at the end of it, but this discreet gentleman quietly lets it
float and does not bite. Like a defeated marshal on a battlefield Mr.
Witherspoon stands alone, h'.s rakish regiments having been shattered,
not by the ammunition of those “ good deeds,” but by the explosive
power of those “little mistakes” (as he terms them) so apparent in the
scoundrel sparrow. I consider your correspondent both unjust and
inconsistent in his endeavour to defend these birds.

Charge 1 (page 145), he submits (though very reluctantly) to be a
learner and, as he says “ that he is rather inclined to think that the
charge will be true.”

Charge 2. He disbelieves that these birds are enemies to gardeners
and fruit growers. He denounces the grand volume of the American
Agricultural Keport as mere “ scraps,” throws it one side and puts his
small, comparatively speaking, “ experience ” in its stead. Age does not
always indicate the width of experience, and younger persons often
possesses more experience than their elders in some things.

Charge 3. He screens the sparrows with the feathers of hens, ducks,
and blackbirds. We all know that Grape culture in our country is not
carried on like that of America ; but this does not impugn the accuracy
of the report.

Charge 4. Here, “ J. W.” takes refuge in cities, and describes sparrows
as “scavengers” which pick bones and clear away refuse ; but grain and
fruit buds do not grow in cities for the scavengers to destroy. Perhaps
suburban amateurs will describe the good (or harm) that sparrows do in
their gardens.

Charge 5. Here your correspondent modestly suggests that Miss
Ormerod’s researches and overwhelming evidencv are nothing to his own
“ experience.” Miss Ormerod’s evidence was gathered from a hundred
sources ; Mr. Witherspoon’s, so far as we know, in one garden. Can he
give the names of gardeners under whom he was trained, and who
taught him his (unsupported) doctrine that sparrows do far more good
than harm in the majority of gardens and fields? — Davies Duffbyn.

September 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

215

CyrRIPEDIDM Sander-superbiens.

The first Cypripedium Sanderianum hybrid which has yet
appeared was exhibited by Mr. Cookson at the Agricultural Hall
on August 29th, under the above name, and received an award of
merit. The other species employed was C. superbiens, and the
credit of the cross belongs to Captain Vipan, the hybrid having
been raised by Mr. Cookson from seed supplied by the former. It
is a beautiful and distinct form, the flowers being of great size, and
remarkable for the very long, drcoping petals, which are double
the length of the lip. They are pale yellow in colour, heavily
blotched with chocolate. The lip is brownish red, and the dorsal
sepal, which is pointed, greenish white with chocolate lines.
Fig. 31 represents this fine acquisition. Mr. Cookson has followed
a distinguished lead in respect to nomenclature ; but such a name as
Sander-superbiens is not euphonious, and forms a quaint mixture of
English — or ought we to say German ? — and Latin,

Aerides Sanderianum.

Two of the largest-flowered and handsomest of all Aerides are
this and its near ally, A. Lawrencise. “ Broadly speaking,” says
Mr. W. Watson, in a recent issue of the “ Garden and Forest,” “ they
are only varieties of the old garden favourite, A. odoratum, but
their flowers are nearly as large again, and their leaves broader
than the ordinary form of that plant.” At Kew, A. Sanderianum
is represented by a plant a yard high, clothed with healthy foliage
to the base, bearing two flower- scapes, each 18 inches long and
clothed with twenty-five flowers, which are l^^inch in diameter,
creamy white, tipped with amethyst, and deliciously fragrant. It
is nearly ten years since Messrs. F. Sander & Co. introduced this
plant in quantity from the Philippine Islands along with
A. Lawrenciae, the first plant of which was purchased at an
auction sale by Sir Trevor Lawrence for 235 guineas. It differs
from A. Sanderiana in having pure white, instead of creamy white,
flowers with amethyst tips,

Odontoglossums,

These have been in many cases heavily shaded during the past
summer, but the material should be gradually dispensed with, the
blinds being drawn down for a few hours only during bright sun¬
shine. As much light as possible ought now to be admitted, and
where the shading is of a permanent nature lose no time in washing
the greater portion of it off. It will not be safe to remove all at
once, or injury may result if bright weather follows. Shading of
this nature is not, however, advisable for Orchids. Considerably
less atmospheric moisture will be needed, and also about the roots
of the plant, but on no account allow the atmosphere of the house
to become dry, or the soil at the roots of the plants.

Press down the moss if it has grown above the base of the
psendo-bulbs. Wash the pots in which the plants are growing, as
well as those upon which they are elevated. Slugs can frequently
be found when turning over the plants. Wash the glass and wood¬
work of the structure in which they are grown, and limewash the
walls. Do not allow the temperature to fall below 50° at 6 a.m.
Artificial heat only will be needed during cold nights for some
weeks longer. — Specialist,

PARAGRAPHS ABOUT THE PARKS.

Whatever may be said, for cr against, about the London County
Council, it is generally admitted that they have effected great improve¬
ments in the parks, gardens, and open spaces of the Metropolis. They
have added fresh lungs to the system, strengthened others, and improved
the condition of the huge patient in a manner very pleasant to behold.
True, the drought has set at naught their efforts to clothe the commons
and other public places with smooth greensward, but that detracts
nothing from the credit due to honest and enlightened endeavour, and
the authorities undoubtedly have at the head of this important depart¬
ment a most competent and zealous official in Mr. J. J. Sexby.

Battersea Park,

The south-west of London has had its fair share of the benefits
which followed the fall of the old Board of Works. Wandsworth
Common has been quite transformed. Fresh turf has been laid, new
walks have been made, old furze cleared off and young established,
lakes formed, and seats provided. Battersea Park has also been
improved. It has been put under the charge of one of the most
capable superintendents which any of the London parks have yet had

in Mr. Coppin ; the staff has been increased, cricket pitches have been
re-made, lawn tennis grounds provided, and the floral attractions of the
place largely augmented. Battersea has reason to be proud of its park,
and very likely it is. Let us hope that the efforts of the Council have
not gone altogether unrewarded by gratitude and appreciation. This
park always enjoyed the reputation of being one of the most attractive
in London, and of late years its claims have grown stronger. It enjoys
a unique position, on one side of it swarming a dense industrial popula¬
tion and on the other being the river.

Visitors of a gardening turn who would like to have a good look
round the park and see most of what is to be seen in the flower way,

vould not err by entering at the south-west gate and following a
ystematic round. Perhaps they will run over it with me in imagination
Irst. Two beautiful borders stretch away right and left on entering,
[’hey are 6 or 7 feet' broad, and as long as I can remember have been
me of the brightest features of the park. Although they have had the
vear and tear of an exceptionally trying season they are still looking
veil, being bright with Dahlias, Sunflowers, herbaceous Phloxes and
Vnemone japonic^ alba at the back, and in front of these wi ee
^etunias. Stocks, Lilium speciosum, annual Phloxes, ' Aonal

Pelargoniums, Sedum spectabile. Coleuses, Asters, Campanulas, age es,
''o 11 irvr\o/ac rjo i 1 1 o Tri id a PpTi f'flf.pmons, and many other flowers.

The drive on the left hand may be followed as far as the north-west
entrance, when a turn to the right along a broad drive near the riverside
will bring us to a group of coffin-shaped_ beds converging to a central
circular one. Before coming to them a circle is observed planted with

216

JOURNAL OF HORTIGULS'URE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 7, 1893.

Begonias and various Coleuses, mixed with Lobelias. Six of the coffin-
shaped beds are planted as pairs, and have filled out extremely well.
One pair is planted with Begonias in the centre, interspersed with a
Nierembergia gracilis, a graceful plant that likes hot weather. They are
flanked by lines of Golden Harry Hieover Pelargoniums and Lobelias.
A second pair are planted with blue Violas and a silver variegated
Zonal in mixture, with an outer line of Iresine, and a margin of what
appeared to be variegated Thyme. Less common, but even more
effective, are white Antirrhinums mixed with Amaranthus melancholicus
ruber, and with an outer line of Eobert Fish Pelargonium. These are
beautiful beds, and the combination is a very simple one. A dark
Coleus would show up the Snapdragons as well as the Amaranthus does.

In passing on it is impossible to help observing the admirable neat¬
ness and order which prevail. The turf is excellently kept, the borders
clean and in good order all through. Naturally the leaves are giving
a great deal of trouble just now ; they are falling early and rapidly,
and are being raked up into heaps and burned. A very attractive
corner is found near the refreshment room in the same drive. A broad
border and series of beds occupy the inside of a semi-circle. If one had
been tempted to think a visit at the end of August too late in a season
like the present he would be undeceived by the time he had seen this
picture, for it is difficult to imagine that it could ever have been more
beautiful than it is now. The border is brilliant with Beet, Marguerites,
scarlet and other Zonals, Calceolarias, white Snapdragons (beautiful
as before), Lobelias, and Echeverias. Two or three of the beds are
carpets, neat in design, well filled, and admirably kept ; others are
composed of hardy Fuchsias mixed with Heliotrope, and edged with
Lobelia and Sempervivum tabulmforme.

At this point it will be well to turn to the right and pass through the
central walk to the sub-tropical garden, which has been for many years
the crowning glory of the park. It is splendidly effective this season.
There is a pleasant irregularity of level and outline about the ground,
and both beds and material for planting them are diversified in
character. In one there is a bold group of Cannas ; in another Begonias
mixed with silvery Dactylis and edged with Zonals, Lobelias, and
Echeverias ; in a third (an oblong) Eucalyptus globulus 8 to 10 feet
high rises above the marbled foliage of Abutilon Thompsoni, and there
is the usual margining. Another bed quite as effective in its way as any
of the others is planted with Lobelia cardinalis rising from a mass of
Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums, with Violas and dwarf succulents outside.
The tall scarlet spikes of the Lobelia are very striking. Then there are
beds of Dahlias, beds of Bamboos, beds of carpet plants, beds of
succulents, beds of Ricinus (very effective these in their greens and
purples), beds of Lilium speciosum mixed with Stocks and many others
which cannot be enumerated. Go and see, that is the best advice which
can be given. The Battersea sub-tropical garden is as fine a feature as
any park in the kingdom can boast of possessing, and just outside it,
leading to the lake, the Palm dell and grove are unique.

Bearing to the right and then abruptly to the left we get the lake on
the left hand and follow it as far as the south-east gate, near which
there is a very large rectangular bed filled with Phloxes, Lobelia
cardinalis. Anemone japonica and its white variety, early Chrys¬
anthemums, Gladioli, and a host of dwarfer plants. With the borders
beside it, it forms a most brilliant and striking picture. A ramble up
the side of the park to finish the inspection at the north-east gate will
reveal many bright corners and gay borders, in fact there are few dull
moments in the little tour. Battersea Park is a favourite resort of
thousands of workers in the vicinity, and adds to the benefits of pure
air the wholesome lesson of the beauty and cheerfulness of flowers.

If the Chrysanthemums fulfil their present promise there will be a
splendid display in a few weeks’ time, for there are about 2000 plants
of a type which good growers admire best. They are stiff and sturdy,
with stout, brown stems and substantial foliage, the growth ripening
admirably. A number of buds have been taken, but it is not expected
that the blooming will be appreciably earlier than usual. No matter,
so long as it is good, and of that there need be little doubt. The show,
we believe, opens about the middle of October.

Hyde Park.

As every Londoner and many country visitors know there is a tre¬
mendous difference between the surroundings of Battersea and Hyde
Parks, the latter being in the very heart of the fashionable quarter. It
is not my intention to form any comparison between them, because they
vary greatly in every way ; but as a few notes have been devoted to the
floral features of the one so brief references may be made to those of
the other. Country gardeners often find a difficulty in arranging for a
sufficient change in their flower beds to satisfy themselves and their
employers season after season, and they are sometimes glad to have their
attention called to combinations elsewhere, which, with a little re¬
arrangement to meet local conditions, will provide the desired variation.

Hyde Park is extensive, and the bedding, especially near Park Lane,
is splendidly carried out ; but there is one little matter in which there
is room for improvement, and that is in the prevailing bareness at the
Marble Arch. There is a short border of flowers on the left, but it is
round the corner, practically out of sight from the road, so that passers-
by and those entering the Park here have nothing bright and cheerful

to greet them. As a number of paths diverge just opposite the Arch
there is a difficulty in providing for broad borders, but a little group of
beds established on the grass just behind them might be provided,
I think, and they would make the entrance much more attractive and
pleasing than it is now. With a modest suggestion to that effect I pass
to say a few words about some of the beds.

Those who want to see the best of them should turn to the left inside
the Marble Arch, and walk down parallel with Park Lane, past Gros-
venor Gate, towards Hyde Park Corner, or vice versa. Here magnificent
stretches will be found, varying in shape, size, and design in a degree
sufficient to satisfy the most exacting critic. One of the first to be seen
is composed of Fuchsias rising above early Chrysanthemums and
Asters, with outer lines of Iresine Wallsi and Alternanthera aurea nana.
This would be a beautiful bed were the Fuchsias good, but unfortunately
they are somewhat thin, and this is the case in most of the other beds
in which they are planted, although there are one or two noteworthy
exceptions, of which more later. A second bed is composed of Abutilons,
Celosias, and Dracaena rubra in mixture, carpeted with Alternanthera
aurea nana, and lined with Coleus splendens. Lobelia Snowball, and
L. Omen in three separate bands. This is effective, and would be more
so if the Abutilons were better bloomed.

There are several examples of the Pelargonium-Viola mixtures. One
is composed of Mrs. Pollock and Blue King, with Lobelia and Pyrethrum
aureum laciniatum. Another is a combination of Pelargonium Princess
Alexandra and Viola Lilacina, with Swanley Blue Lobelia and the
Pyrethrum ; but this group is nearly surrounded by trees, and it is evident
that they have told against the beds considerably. They have spoiled a
well-designed bed that ought to have been very attractive. It is
composed of Grevillea robusta, mixed with Carnations on a groundwork
of True Blue Viola, but the last named has done very badly. The outer
lines are Lobelia Omen and Lysimachia Nummularia aurea. A passing
tribute ought to be paid to the admirable system of naming the plants
which is adopted. It must be instructive to the public and useful to
those horticulturists who, not being Kew experts, are unable to recognise
every plant in the world at a glance.

The main block of beds is just by the Grosvenor Gate on the Piccadilly
side. There is a wide oblong stretch of greensward with a path on each
side of it, and the beds are arranged in pairs, one at the side of each
walk. It is well to keep the oblong on the right, going in the direction
of the Corner, as then the long line of beds near the park railings may
be inspected at the same time. All have done much better than the first
group ; with hardly an exception they have filled out well, and the
designs are both varied and beautiful, so that it is a true delight to
study them. All of course are not equally pleasing to one pair of eyes,
but tastes differ, and what one visitor condemns another would approve.

Attracting attention is a very beautiful bed formed by the simple
admixture of scarlet Tuberous Begonias and Acacia lophantha, with a
groundwork of Lysimachia Nummularia aurea and an edging of Lobelia
Snowball. There is nothing elaborate or difficult to imitate about this,
but it would not be easy to excel it. Another that is strikingly effective
is made up of splendid pyramids of Heliotrope General Garfield 4 to
6 feet high, to 3 feet through and full of bloom, mixed with Lilium
speciosum and Nicotiana affinis, the carpet being Alternanthera aurea
nana, the outer lines A. paronychioides major and A. amcena. It is
rich, bold, and imposing. _ _

Two delightful beds have been formed by associating Tuberous
Begonias with Grevillea robusta.' One is the crimson variety Chas.
Baltet, its flowers being well set off by the foliage plant, and the bed is
carpeted with Harrison’s Musk, a broad band of Viola Snowflake com¬
pleting it. In the other the pink Begonia Lady Stanhope is used.
These are two of the most successful mixtures in the park. There is
one bed in which Fuchsias are growing and blooming beautifully. The
tall plants, with their pendant flower-laden shoots, droop gracefully
over a mixture of Abutilons, double Petunias, and Begonias, a border
of Mesembryanthemum cordifolium variegatum completing an effective
arrangement. _

A simple combination that is likely to please most persons is a
scarlet Zonal mixed with the lilac Viola Bessie Clark, these being
surrounded by a band of the dwarf yellow Fuchsia Cloth of Gold half
a yard across. Scarlet Begonias rising from a carpet of the golden
Creeping Jenny, and margined with the bronzy Fuchsia Meteor, also
look extremely well. Between and amongst these beds are huge Palms,
groups of Eucalyptus globulus, hardy Fuchsias, pyramidal Heliotropes,
and eolumnar masses of Plumbago capensis 8 feet high, all of which
serve a useful purpose in breaking up the lines and imparting diversity.

Shortly after this grand group is quitted another is reached on the
left, and in it a few of the best mixtures are (1) hardy Fuchsias, Lilium
speciosum and Celosias, with a groundwork of blue Lobelia ; (2) Ivy¬
leaved Pelargonium Mdme. Crousse in fine masses, with early Chrysan¬
themums and Violas ; (3) dwarf Cannas, with Acacia lophantha,
Grevillea robusta, and Indiarubber plants, carpeted with Alternanthera ;
(4) a rose Begonia on a groundwork of Mesembryanthemum cordifolium
variegatum, edged with Coleuses and white Lobelia. Soon after
these beds are passed a sharp turn to the right will lead to the dell near

September 7. 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

217

the Serpentine, where a winding stream meandering between Ivy-
covered banks to a rocky head lined by tall Tree Ferns and lofty Musas
is well worth seeing. From here to Hyde Park Corner, as well as along
the Lady’s Mile, there are several attractive beds and borders to be
found ; but probably enough has been described to serve the purpose
of indicating the beauty of the great park under the masterly super¬
intendence of Mr. W. Brown. — Wandeeer.

FRUIT GATHERING TIME AT CHEALS’.

Between the end of budding time and the commencement of the
lifting season there is a little lull in the fruit nurseries, not a com¬
plete one by any means, for there is plenty of work still on hand,
but just a trifling relaxation of the pressure which seems almost a
chronic condition in rising places. It is then that the wise man will
pay his visit if he can. In early September many trees have been
relieved of their golden or crimson load, gatherings having been made
in order to secure fruit for the shows, but the majority remain with
the greater part of their crop, and so their bearing qualities may be
perceived. The season of 1893, so harrassing and even deadly to
numerous light-land cultivators, has dealt kindly with those great
growers Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons of Crawley. No hungry, thirsty soil is
theirs, but heavy, tenacious loam, and while in thousands of places trees
have languished and dropped their fruit, Conifers wilted, and shrubs
shrivelled, at Lowfield their growth has been steady, substantial, and
healthy. I have more than once inspected the famous nurseries, but
have never seen them in such condition as they are this season. The
weather has given such an opportunity for weed extermination as we
have not had for many a year, and it has been taken advantage of to
the full. Acre after acre may be traversed without one weed being seen.
In order, cleanliness, and neatness the nurseries are perfect, while above
and beyond all there are the thousands of healthy, vigorous trees which
are to go forth and bring fresh credit to the name of Cheal when the
season comes round.

The Old Order and the New.

It is impossible to help contrasting the present with the past. A
quarter of a century ago this fruit and shrub nursery of about 100 acres,
employing its scores of hands, was under farm cultivation, and for every
man who then found occupation there is now work for a dozen. The
value of the land has grown enormously, the prosperity of its culti¬
vators has increased, and the condition of the workers has correspond¬
ingly improved. These are gratifying facts. Development was steady
and gradual until ten or fifteen years ago, since when it has gone on
with accelerated speed, good material and good workmanship securing
the general recognition which has now placed the once small local firm
in the front rank of British nurserymen. Though the Crawley soil is
holding and stubborn, like John Bull’s own character, it has sterling
qualities, building up strong and seasoned growth well calculated to
fight its way into matured health, strength, and fruitfulness. There is
something fresh and invigorating, too, in the Crawley air, alike to
vegetation and mankind, for in addition to splendid trees and brilliant
flowers, Lowfield possesses in the nonagenarian parent of the well-
known brothers, a wonderful specimen of humanity. Mr. Cheal, senior,
now in his ninety-fourth year, still gazes on the scenes which have been
familiar to him for nearly a century with faculties undimmed, enjoys
life, and astonishes the doctors, who long ago dubbed him “ the ever¬
green,” and left him to his own marvellous vital resources as requiring
no help from them. To hear him speak with fatherly pride of the
energetic and enterprising brothers who have lifted the business up by
hard work and sound methods, and have grown grey in the work, as
“ my boys,” and then to glance out over the acres of fruit and mentally
contrast them with the old corn-growing order of things, brings home
the contrast of the generations. In the hurry of progress let us not
forget the firm foundations of the past.

A House of Cordon Pears.

But the present is too pressing to afford much time for retrospect. I
went to Cheal’s to report their work and progress up to date, and I must
set about my task. First, a few words may be devoted to the house of
cordon Pears, which is now one of the great features of the nursery. It
is 50 feet long, 20 wide, and 12 high, the rafters going down to within a
foot of the ground, where there is a continuous shutter at each side,
raised in genial weather to admit a flow of pure air amongst the trees.
The structure, it will be understood, is a very light one. Bush trees are
planted in a central bed, and all round the house are trained cordon
Pears. They have been planted out in the border and allowed to go
right up the roof, which permits a run of about 15 feet. They are now
in their third year, and are a very striking and instructive sight, being
laden with magnificent fruit. A good deal has been cleared off, but
there is still a crop hanging which speaks with eloquent voice of the
benefits of the system. Here, with the trees under easy control and the
blossom protected, an annual crop is insured. They not only bear
splendid fruit now, but exhibit in the bold buds with which they are
bristling the promise of an equal crop next season. Amongst them are
new and old varieties, Duchesse de Nemours is a January Pear
resembling Doyennd Boussoch in appearance, and of excellent quality.
Belle de Bruxelles and Duchesse de Mouchy are both bearing well, but
neither is much known generally. The latter keeps till March, Then
there are Charles Cognde, a useful February Pear ; Beurrd Alexandre
Liicas, Princess, in grand condition; Epine Dumas and Abb6 Fetel,

which has grand clusters of large fruit. Amongst the older varieties
Beurrd Superfin, Beurrd Hardy, Uvedale’s St. Germain’s, Doyennd
Boussoch (very fine), Mardchal de Cour, Louise Bonne of Jersey,
Durondeau, Jersey Gratioli, Clapp’s Favourite, Triomphe de Jodoigne,
Beurr6 d’ Amanlis, and General Toddleben are carrying splendid crops,
the last-named being one of the best. There is one notable disappoint¬
ment, however, and that is the delicious Doyenn^ du Comice, which so
far does badly, the fruit being brown and scabbed. The cordon house is
undoubtedly a great success, and attracts the attention of all visitors.
In due time similar structures will doubtless be found in many private
places.

Cordons Out of Doors,

Although the drought has been so prolonged and insects so trouble¬
some the trees, as I have said, are in admirable condition. The insect
plague would have developed into a very serious matter but for being
dealt with in a firm manner. For many weeks two hands were con¬
stantly employed in the application of insecticides, and as labour means
expense the task was a costly one, but the result was that the mischief
to the trees was arrested, and they have gone on well ever since. The
Crawley cordons are famous, and in few previous seasons have they been
seen in such splendid order. Apart from the walls, espaliers, and arches,
each with its ripening burden, there are excellent crops both of Apples
and Pears in the open quarters. The latter are surprisingly full, the
blossom escaping injury from the spring frosts as it rarely does. A good
deal was destroyed, but plenty escaped. Beurr^ d’ Amanlis, Williams’
Bon ChrfStien, Williams’ Victoria, a later variety than the last named ;
Passe Colmar, Marie Louise d’Uccle, Fondante d’Antomne, Doyenn6 du
Comice (exceptionally good), Durondeau (ditto), and Beurr4 de
I’Assomption may be named as a few that are bearing heavily. These
trees are not topped, but the side shoots are shortened to encourage the
formation of fnrit spurs, with which they are thickly studded. They
are clean, vigorous, healthy, and fruitful, and no one inspecting them
would hesitate to entrust his fortunes to them if he were desirous of
planting. It is not in vain that Messrs. Cheal & Sons have devoted
special attention to this popular and rising class.

Notes on Various Apples.

“ Why,” said Mr. A., “ don’t people grow more of Hormead Pear-
main ?” and then he looked at Mr. J., and the latter responded, ‘'Ah !
Why?” It is one of the best Apples grown at Crawley, being a fine
and constant cropper, a good grower, and bearing beautiful fruit. It
is an excellent kitchen sort, and may also be used for dessert. The
neglect of this variety apparently rankled in Mr. A.’s mind, for an hour
or so after he returned to it, and this time clinched the matter by
saying emphatically that if he were going to grow six varieties this
would be one of them. Will not some growers try it on the strength
of this, and report results? Then there is the Forge, a small local
Apple, wonderfully heavy for its size, growing freely in almost any
soil, never cankering, bearing every year, hardy, healthy, and an admir¬
able cooker. It has exceptional colour this year, but is always attrac¬
tive, though hardly large enough for market. Waltham Abbey Seedling
and The Queen are yielding grand fruit on young bushes. Jefferson
is a small and attractive dessert variety, the skin striped and fl.aked,
the fruit somewhat flattened, borne freely, and of very agreeable flavour.
It does well as a cordon. Landsberger Reinette is bearing fine crops
both as a bush and a cordon. Sussex Nanney, a mid-Sussex dessert
Apple with soft flesh, ready now, ia not widely known, but merits
recognition.

An Apple which is puzzling not a few experts is one had under the
name of Ringer. It is not that, for although the yellow fruit bears a
strong resemblance to it, it is much heavier and the stalk shorter ; the
tree crops better than Ringer too. Several have thought it to be Jolly
Beggar, but the foliage is quite distinct from that and the stalk shorter.
If it could be pronounced a distinct variety it would be well worthy of
a name, for the fruit is wonderfully solid and heavy, keeping well, and
the tree is a great cropper. Sandringham, Lady Henniker, Maltster,
Frogmore Prolific, Margil, and Lord Lennox are all observed to be bear¬
ing well. Young trees of Lane’s Prince Albert, open, clean, healthy
bushes, are almost breaking down with their load of splendid fruit. The
colour that many varieties possess this season is altogether exceptional.
With the warm air and soil they have assumed the richest imaginable
tints, Cox’s Orange Pippin, Beauty of Kent, Cellini, Barchard’s Seedling,
Bismarck, Gascoyne’s Seedling and Wealthy being particularly brilliant.
The season has brought about noticeable changes in some varieties.
Peasgood’s Nonesuch is not so large as usual, and Ecklinyille far from
being so good as it generally is ; on the other hand Cellini, usually one
of the worst at Crawley, is grand both in crop and colour this season, and
Lord Suffield, another of the troublesome ones, is also excellent in every
way. A splendid stock of Bismarck arrests special attention and orders
are beginning to flow in for it rapidly, Cospatrick, Newton Wonder
(an improved Wellington), King of the Pippins, Betty Geeson, Claygate
Pearmain, Mannington, Dutch Mignonne, and Domino successively
arrest attention for their healthy growth and enormous crops. Newton
Wonder, Betty Geeson, and Domino all stand very high in Messrs.
Cheal’s estimation, and all must grow in popular esteem from their
intrinsic excellence.

The Dahlias.

It would be useless to attempt an exhaustive reference to every
object of interest in the fruit way at Lowfield, so I^ give in at once,
and pass on to say a few words about the Dahlias, which constitute the
other great speciality of the firm. There are several large quarters of

218

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 7, 1893.

them, one being devoted to Shows and Fancies, another to Cactus and
decorative, a third to Pompons, and a fourth to singles, besides borders
of Tom Thumbs. They were in full beauty, and produced a magnificent
effect, hundreds of thousands of brilliant flowers dazzling the eye. A
choice dozen of the Cactus and decorative group, worth growing every¬
where, are Delicata, Robt. Cannell, Mrs. Peart, Ernest Cannell, Sir
Roger, Duke of Clarence, Beauty of Arundel, Bertha Mawley, Crawley
Gem, Edith Cheal, Countess of Radnor, and Duchess of York, The
purely “ decorative ” varieties will soon be out of date. Twelve splendid
Pompons, chosen from a most extensive collection, are Sunshine, Arthur
West, Boule d’Or, Tommy Keith, Phoebe, Geo. Brinckman, H. G. Searle,
Grace, E. F. Jungker, Whisper, Burydice, and Lady Blanche. A dozen
beautiful, distinct, and free-flowering singles are Formosa, Gulielma,
Northern Star, Eclipse, Amos Perry, Evelyn, Miss Glasscock, The Bride,
May Sharpe, Aurora, Duke of York, and Kitty. The Tom Thumbs are
flowering freely and brightly, particularly Mignon, Bantam, Houp-U,
and Canary.

I had wished to make some reference to the trees and shrubs, but
must leave them for the time at least. The Dartmouth, John Downie,
Transcendent, and Red Siberian Crabs, Prunus Pissardi, the Thorns,
the Acers, the Golden and Cornish Elms, and the Conifers are pictures
of health and beauty. No one need wish for a finer stock. They form
with the fruit trees a monument to the success which has followed a long
and arduous struggle with a stiff, unkindly, but withal fertile soil.
Energy and determination, supported by cultural skill, have proved the
conquerors, and a fiftyfold increase in the productiveness of the land is
at once the reward and the justification of those who have triumphed.
— W. P. W.

National Rose Society,

I AM confident that whatever other effect my circular may have
produced, it is a pleasure to have drawn so reticent a man as Mr.
Mawley into an active correspondence in your Journal. One would
think from Mr. Mawley’s letter on page 201 that I had issued a series
of questions involving charges of the most terrible character, as his
reply contains such expressions as *• fearful crime,” “ searching examina¬
tion,” “ spotless record,” and other terms which are suggestive and
certainly invite a reply.

Let us see then how others look on the management of the Society,
A writer in a contemporary (whose identity I am unable to fix),
under the appropriate pseudonym of “ Lux,” says “ there is a strong
element of conservatism in nearly all these special societies, and
the general plan is to get everything cut and dried at a nice tea party
sort of meeting.” I think “ Lux ” accurately describes the Committee
meetings of “ our beloved National Rose Society ” — a stock phrase of
endearment peculiar to “ E. M.,” who will presumably be glad to answer
a few questions that I will put to the Secretaries,

1, Does either of these gentlemen know of any Society of standing
whose Committee meet to transact business once a month, and manage
to properly discuss the affairs and current work of the Society in the
space of about one hour ?

2, Do the Secretaries know of any Society whose members are
enrolled without any election, who prior to enrolment are asked no
questions, and for whom no one is responsible ?

3, Would the Secretaries say how many inquiries they received as to
the “character” of my private circular, the receipt of which inquiries
they state urged them to make the circular a subject for public notice
and repudiation ? — Charles J. Grahame, Croydon.

Tea Rose Ernest Metz.

I HAVE sent some blooms of the above Rose for your inspection,
and probably you will agree with me that it would be difficult to
name any other kind more beautiful at this time of year. — Benjamin
R. Cant.

[We do agree with our correspondent in this respect. The blooms
were beautiful, being deep, large, handsome, delightfully fresh, and
of a delicate blush pink, shaded carmine at the edge of the petals.
Obviously Ernest Metz, like the majority of Roses, thrives at Colchester.]

Tea-scented Roses.

I AM much obliged to “ D., Deal," for the information he gives me
in your issue of last week. I have, however, been for some time familiar
with the fact that L’Ideal is a Noisette (hybridised, nevertheless, with
the Tea-scented class, and therefore closely allied to these) ; likewise
that Cheshunt Hybrid — a Rose which ought, if only for its fragrance, to
be valued more highly than it is by exhibitors — is a Hybrid Tea. I am
interested to find that your correspondent assigns to the same category
Gustave Regis, which is one of the most beautiful of modern Roses,
especially when in bud. At this stage of development it rivals L’Ideal
and William Allen Richardson. Noisette and Tea Roses succeed
admirably in my garden (Wigtonshire) grown in the open air, and they
require during the winter but little protection. Among these are those
somewhat delicately constituted v® ’s\<tties of the Noisette class, Marechal

Niel and Cloth of Gold. But then we are encircled on all sides (save
one) by the sea, and have from the Atlantic the mitigating influence of
the Gulf Stream.— David R. Williamson.

Rose-growing and Pressing in Saxony.

The experimental Rose' plantations started two years ago in the
neighbourhood of Leipzig have given such brilliant results that they are,
the Belgian Consul states, being extended. The plants have thriven
well through the long and severe winter of 1892-93, and their condition
in May left nothing to be desired. It has been shown that it was a
false idea to suppose that these flowers require Oriental heat to prosper
and acquire a delicate perfume ; the experiments at Leipzig having
proved that a cool temperature, and even a little damp, is the first
condition of a good yield, whilst great heat is the enemy of Roses. A
special factory has been established in the middle of the plantations by
the house which made the first experiments, and it is to be put in
operation this summer. Provision is made for dealing each day — we
quote the Consul — •“ with 50,000 kilogs. of leaves, “ producing, at least,
about 40 kilogs. of oil, water, and pomade of Roses, valued at 40,000
to 50,000 marks. To start with the factory will have three boilers
providing 300 square metres of heated surface, and the Roses will,
immediately they are plucked, be transferred to the macerating jars,
where, thanks to this procedure, they will deposit their perfume in all
its freshness and delicacy. Only the quantity of leaves required at the
moment will be collected, a few minutes sufficing to transfer the leaves
from the plants to the machines.” “Commerce” of the 26th July
adds : “ This expedition is favourably contrasted with the procedure
followed in Turkey and in France, where frequently the Roses plucked
in the morning are only distilled in the evening. As to the oil of Roses
produced in Saxony during last year, it is claimed that not only did it
not fall short on comparison with the Turkish product, but that it was
better than its rival in delicacy and strength, and the lasting character
of its perfume.” — (“ Kew Bulletin.”)

A MELON NOVELTY.

Enclosed herewith you will find a seedling Melon plant, respecting
which I shall be glad to have information. Three days ago I sent to
table a very fine looking Melon Prince Arthur ; when it was cut, the
seeds inside were found to be germinating, and showing various stages
of plant development. The plant sent was the most advanced, the
stem 2 inches long, and the cotyledons well formed. What appears to be
the most remarkable in connection with this matter is the chlorophyll
in the leaves. How did this get there? Is it possible that sufficient
light could penetrate the skin and flesh of the fruit to produce it ? The
skin of this Melon was particularly thin, and the flesh very transparent.
Would the unusual hot sun which we have had account for the seeds
germinating inside the fruit ? I have frequently seen split Melons
with young plants growing out of them, but this Melon was perfectly
sound, very smooth, and of handsome appearance. It had been cut
from the plant, and placed in a cool vinery three days previous to
being sent to table. Any information respecting it will be accept¬
able to both my employer and myself. — Thos. ARNOLD, The Gardens,
Cirencester House.

[The Melon plant received had a stem 2 inches long, with roots in
formation and well developed cotyledons of a pale green colour. Our
correspondent is no doubt right in his conjecture. The requisite con¬
ditions for germination were present — namely, heat, moisture, and
oxygen gas, this being an essential constituent of water, while sufficient
light from bright sun passed through the thin rind and transparent
flesh for the deposition of chlorophyll in the cotyledons. The seedling
was quite healthy, and would undoubtedly have grown satisfactorily if
established in soil under suitable cultural conditions. Just as preparing
for press a correspondent, “ Muriel Grahame,” informs us of a similar
instance in a Lemon, green growths from the seed nearly half an inch
long and roots of the same length when the fruit was cut open.]

HORTICULTURAL SHOWS.

The last issue of the Jo7irnal of Horticulture, August 31st, con¬
tained a most interesting report of the Shrewsbury Horticultural Show
(page 203), a report which I should like every individual connected with
horticultural societies to read and inwardly digest. If societies and
their secretaries generally would try and imitate the policy pursued by
the Shrewsbury friends we should hear less of failure, and soon find a
very different feeling to exist between societies and exhibitors.

In my opinion your correspondent in his report of Shrewsbury Show
hit the nail on the head. If societies are to be successful they must not
only gain the confidence and good wishes of the public, but must
endeavour by every legitimate means in their power to retain their
supporters. It frequently occurs to me that Show Committees are
consumed with the idea that they are conferring a boon on the horti¬
cultural community by providing a Show, and that exhibitors ought to
meekly submit, “ and feel grateful ” for the niggardly treatment so
often meted out to them by many societies. If such societies find their
entries and funds gradually declining year by year they certainly have
nobody to blame but themselves. Show Committees would do well to
bear in mind that they cannot very well get on without the aid of
exhibitors if they would, who frequently travel many miles at great
inconvenience and expense to contribute the shows.

September 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

219

Let societies offer the very best prizes they can, and there will be
little difficulty in securing good entries and a show which a generous
public will patronise and appreciate. It is a blind policy to extract the
last fraction you can get from the pocket of the very men who make
the show. Such niggardly treatment tends to drive exhibitors away
in disgust never to return. I am pleased to know that there are
societies which I could name, and that deserve all the praise that has
been bestowed upon them from time to time, and which are to-day in a
most prosperous condition. They have gained the confidence of the
community in the first place by securing the services of the best judges
they can obtain, and secondly by a liberal, generous, and considerate
treatment of the exhibitors and supporters.— Wai. Innes.

Events of the Week. — During the ensuing week several impor¬
tant horticultural events will take place. The Committees of the Koyal
Horticultural Society will meet at the Drill Hall on Tuesday,
September 12th ; and on the 13th a special Show of autumn flowers and
fruit will open at the Gardening and Forestry Exhibition, Earl’s Court,
continuing the following day. The Royal Caledonian Horticultural
Society’s Exhibition will be held at Edinburgh on the 13th and
14th inst. The show of Dahlias, Gladioli, and Early Chrysanthemums,
which opened at the Royal Aquarium on the 6th inst., continues to-day
(Thursday) and to-morrow,

- The Weather in London. — With the exception of a few

slight local showers fine weather has again prevailed in the metropolis
during the past week. The days have, as a rule, being bright and sunny
but the nights rather cold . At the time of going to press it is fine and
warm.

- Royal Horticultural Society. — The next meeting of the

above Society will be held on Tuesday, September 12th, in the Drill
Hall, James Street, Westminster. Mr. James Douglas will deliver a
lecture on “ Garden Phloxes and Pentstemons,” and collections of these
plants will be welcomed as a means of illustrating the lecture in a
practical way. As the season for Gladioli is drawing to a close we
have been requested by Messrs. Kelway & Son of Langport to say that
their prize of a silver medal will be offered at this meeting for the best
twelve Gladiolus gandavensis varieties raised from British seeds. Prizes
are also offered by the Society for twelve distinct Gladioli grown by
amateurs.

- Mr. Thomas Manning, — After long, diligent, and faithful

service as manager to the great firm of Messrs. .James Veitch & Sons,
Chelsea, Mr. Manning has well won the rest he will seek at the close
of the present month, Few persons could possess more intimate and
varied knowledge of plants and their value than Mr. Manning, and this
combined with great business capacity made him a man of mark in the
horticultural world. He has, “ boy and man,” been connected with the
firm for forty-eight years. Mr. Manning will take with him wherever
he may “ settle down ” the best wishes of a host of friends.

- We have received the first Fasciculus of that marvellous book

the Index Kewensis, of which it may be said, as Linnmus and Haller
said of John Ray’s “ Historia Plantarum,” “ opus immensi laioris."
We have heard this described as a “ Modern Steudel,” and so it is in
some respects ; but it is that and something more, for it gives a citation
of all the synonymes, with references to the pages of the works in
which they are to be found, and this Steudel dees not do. The title of
the work is “ Index Kewensis : an Enumeration of the Genera and
Species of Flowering Plants from the time of Linnseus to the year 1885
inclusive, together with their authors’ names, the works in which they
were first published, their native countries, and their synonymes.
Compiled at the expense of the late Charles Robert Darwin, under the
direction of Joseph D. Hooker, by B. Daydon Jackson.” It is a great
work and worthy of Kew.

- Medals. — Now that medals are so freely provided as honours

for commendable exhibits at horticultural and other shows we may
appropriately refer to some artistic examples sent for inspection by
Mr. J. Carter, 37, Howard Street, Birmingham, which he is now
bringing before the public. The gold, silver-gilt, silver, and bronze
medals are alike beautifully finished, while the various designs are highly
artistic and appropriate to the objects represented so well.

- Death of Mr. George Marchant. — Though not a pushing

man striving to keep his name before the public, Mr. Marchant
occupied a very public position, to which he won his way by diligent
work and honest endeavour. He was one of the Crimean heroes,
receiving several wounds, also English and Turkish medals. He found
employment in the London parks, and spent about thirty years of his
life in them. For sixteen years he had charge of the Thames Embank¬
ment Gardens, first under Mr. Sinclair, then Mr. Cochrane, in the
Metropolitan Board of Works days. On the County Council succeeding
the Board, Mr. Marchant was sent to Ravenscourt Park, but soon
returned to take full charge of the Thames Embankment Gardens.
This position he held with much credit till his death, which occurred
on the 28th ult. in his fifty-eighth year. A gentleman who has known
Mr. Marchant and his work for years says of him, “ A more con¬
scientious worker could not be found. Faithful labour is always
appreciated, and no man in the several parks was more highly thought
of by his superior officer, Mr. Sexby, than was George Marchant.”

- The Agricultural Hall Show. — As most persons expected.

this speculation resulted in considerable loss — it is said upwards of £300.
As might also be expected, the Council of the Royal Horticultural
Society took care to secure a guarantee against bearing any share of
possible loss occurring. We also learn that several trade exhibitors did
little or no business to meet the considerable expense they incurred in
sending large collections of produce. The Exhibition was a fine one,
and it is regrettable that it did not receive a large share of public
appreciation.

- Drought in France. — Mr. A. H. Pearson, writing from

Angers on the 3rd inst., says : — “ In passing down the boulevard here
to-day I noticed several of the Chestnut trees which had gone to res:
by reason of the drought, and subsequently pushed out new leaves and
blossoms. One or two trees were quite white over. Is not this unusual ?
The pastures are in a fearful state, and the proverbial ‘ oldest inhabi¬
tant ’ never saw the Loire so low as at present.” [There are numbers
of leafless trees in the south of London, but France is ahead of us in
having Chestnuts growing and flowering now as if in spring.]

- White Antirrhinums.— In reply to “ A. D.” (page 197) as

to why I referred to this variety as “ Iggulden’s,” I have to say that I
believed him to be the first to introduce it to that part of the country,
and I very naturally connected his name with it, not knowing any other
that I could distinguish it by. Ic has been grown at Marston for some
ten years, and I think I am correct in stating that it was in Mr.
Iggulden’s possession prior to that time. My only motive in writing the
note (page 172) was to call attention to a very useful plant. If “A. D.”
had distributed the “splendid crimson” of which he writes, and I had
fortunately shared in his liberality, I should certainly have spoken and
written of it as “ Dean's,” without taking the trouble to ascertain
whether or not he had a right to his name being coupled with it. — T. S.

- Drought Effects. — It seems almost incredible after the

many fine rains that we have had in the London district, that trees
should be suffering so severely from drought that at the end of
August there may be seen at Strawberry Hill numerous Elms
literally without a leaf on them, and this too in what is called the
fertile valley of the Thames. I have rarely seen in relation to the
effects of the season on trees greater contrast than was the other day
found at Hackwood Park, Basingstoke, where on a solid chalk base
trees and shrubs and grass were all luxuriantly beautiful, hardly a
leaf having been shed. Then a few days later I looked in at Lady
Freake’s place, Fulwell Park, Twickenham, and there found the grass
burnt brown, the trees shedding leaves wholesale, some being quite
leafless, and sweeping literally going on constantly ; in fact, it was
just such a sight as may be looked for at the end of October ; and
yet the soil in this district has the reputation of being deep and
retentive ; but it is evident that when gravel at the base and trees
are thick, the subsoil becomes so intensely dry that nothing short of a
deluge of water such as a wet winter gives can fairly saturate the roots.
Needless to say that this intense dryness of the soil extended to the
kitchen gardens also, and rendered cultivation exceedingly difficult.
It is a capital wet season position, but a very bad dry one ; and yet
within 40 yards of the garden there is a small river full of water,
but it might as well be in the moon so far as it affords any benefit
to the trees or gardens. In all such situations the season has beyond
measure demonstrated the immense need there is of an ample supply of
water in dry weather, and here could a few thousands of gallons be
lifted each day from the river it would be of the greatest value to the
gardener. — A. D.

220

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 7, 1893.

- National Amateur Gardeners’ Association. — The

members of the above Association held their usual monthly meeting
in the Memorial Hall, Farringdon Street, E.C., on the 5th inst., Mr.
T. W. Sanders presiding. A lecture on “Begonias” was given by
Mr. \V. E. Jupp, a successful amateur grower, and a good discussion
followed.

- The Turpentine Industry. — Contrary to what most persons

would infer, it is said on the authority of the United States Department
of Agriculture, after careful tests, that tapping the Pine trees
for turpentine is not injurious to the timber, and that the lumber
is in no way affected by it. The turpentine industry, with a product
worth 10,000,000 dollars annually, is thus a clear gain.

- Wood Wool. — In our report of the horticultural sundries

exhibited at the Agricultural Hall Show last week we omitted to
mention a superior kind of wood wool, which was noticeable in the
excellent stand of Messrs. W. Wood & Sons of Wood Green, N. This
wood wool, a sample of which is before us, is remarkably fine, and
being sweet, soft, and clean, is well adapted for packing tender as well
as firm fruit.

- The Total Rainfall at Abbot’s Leigh, Hayward’s

Heath, Sussex, for the past month was 0-55 inch, being 1-75 inch
below the average. The heaviest fall was 0 23 inch on the 3rd. Rain fell
on eight days. The highest temperature was 86° on the 17th, the
lowest 43° on the 6th and 29th. Mean day temperature 75-20°, mean
night temperature 53-12°, mean temperature 64-16°, which is 5-08° above
the average. Where are our weather prophets who promised us a wet
August ? — R. I.

- New Violas. — As so much has been written about Violas, I

thought you might like to see blooms of the trio of large flowering
rayless varieties I shall send out next year. The blooms sent are small,
but they are larger when developed. The blue with a white centre is a
cross between Ariel and Violetta, and named Pride of Etal. The white
is Mrs. Scott, a seedling from Countess of Wharncliffe, crossed with
Violetta. The yellow is George Lord, a seedling from Ardwell Gem
crossed with Violetta. Princess May and Pure Love are miniatures ;
notice the Picotee edge in Pure Love. I have also a white Picotee edge,
no rays at all, and so dwarf ; and many fine varieties you shall see later
on. — Geo. Steel. [The flowers of the first three varieties named are
charming, although but medium sized. The “ miniatures ” are very
small, but the colouring is delicate, and the Picotee edge just
discernible in Pure Love.]

- Alterations in Edinburgh Botanic Gardens. — The

Palm and temperate houses at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh,
have, we learn from a northern daily contemporary, just undergone
reconstruction. The old Palm house was built in 1832, the newer or
western half was erected in 1856. The former is octagonal in form,
with a diameter of 60 feet ; the latter is 100 feet long, 60 feet wide, and
with an arched iron and glass roof 72 feet high. For the most part the
specimen Palms and other tropical plants were placed in tubs, which
had by no means an ornamental aspect. This arrangement Professor
Bayley Balfour, Regius Keeper of the Garden, has now entirely abolished.
The whole of the trees and plants in the temperate house and in the
hotter Palm ho^e are planted in specially prepared beds, and in conse¬
quence appear in this miniature tropical forest as if they were growing
in their native habitat. The change has already told upon them in the
most beneficial manner. The majority, indeed all of them, are showing
signs of a vigorous life which has been unknown in the Palm house for
years. Coils of pipps. are placed along the side of the inner wall
of the Palm house, and.also along the iron gallery, so that in the winter
an equable temperature of 50° may be maintained. The old Palm house
was formerly heated from a number of small houses on the outside of the
walls. These have now been cleared away, the lower walls have been
opened up, and encircling the Palm house on all sides, save that by which
it is joined up to the temperate house, is a handsome iron and glass
annexe, which gives about 200 feet of staging, and imparts to the main
building a lightness and beauty it never before possessed. Next year the
range of greenhouses stretching from the herbarium to the Palm houses
is to be overhauled, and the tank house may be taken up next. At this
time an important re-arrangement of the heating appliances in the
Garden has taken place. Formerly there were no fewer than twenty-
two different furnaces and eighteen or nineteen sep.arate stokeholes
scattered all over the place . These have been concentrated into one
stokehole, situated not far from the back of the Palm house. The total
cost of the reconstruction of the Palm houses and the new heating arrange¬
ments has been about £3000,

- Presentation at Aldenham Park Gardens. — We under*

stand that Mr. J. A. Cox, who for several years has served as foreman
in the above gardens, was on September 1st presented with a marble-
clock, a set of carvers, and a dozen table knives and forks by his-
friends on the occasion of his leaving his situation.

- Wasps in Nottinghamshire.— Mr. J. Mallender, Hodsock

Priory, Worksop, writes : — Wasp nests have been very numerous here
this season. I have destroyed 115 nests within a mile radius of these-
gardens. I destroyed the nests in the daytime. It is an old plan, but
after trying many new ways, I am most in favour of the method I have
practised for more than thirty years. [Is the “ old plan” a secret? ]

- Onion Gum. — A very convenient gum can be made of Onion

juice. A good-sized Spanish Onion, after being boiled a short time, wil
yield, on being pressed, quite a large quantity of very adhesive fluid.
This, a correspondent remarks, is used quite extensively in various trades
for pasting paper on tin or zinc, or even glass, and the tenacity with
which it holds would surprise anyone on making the first attempt. It
is the cheapest and best gum for such purposes, and answers just as well
as many of the more costly and patent cements.

- The Weather in August. — Mr. W, H. Divers, Ketton Hall

Gardens, Stamford, observes : — This was a very changeable month, but
dry, and in this neighbourhood plant life suffered more from drought
during the last week than in any previous time this year. We had
twenty-one bright days. A heavy thunderstorm occurred on the 10th,.
and very hot weather on the 18th. The thermometer was 81° in shade
at 9 A M., and registered 93° afterwards. We had a shock of earthquake
at 6.41 p.m. on 4th, The barometer stood at 29 67 inches. Wind wa&
in a westerly direction for twenty days. Total rainfall was 1-62 inch
which fell on twelve days, and is 0 64 inch below the average for the
month. The greatest daily fall was 0 43 inch on 11th. Barometer,
highest 30 35 at 9 A.m. on 29th ; lowest 29-58 at 9 A.M. on 2l9t. Highest
shade temperature 93° on 18th ; lowest 40° on 29th ; lowest on grass
34° on 29th, Mean daily maximum 75'41° ; mean daily minimum
53-54° ; mean temperature of the month 64-32°. This is 3-92° above the
average for the last ten years. The garden spring ran 15 gallons of
water per minute on 31st.

- Zonal Pelargoniums at Swanley. — The utility and con¬
tinuous beauty of these plants, both for planting in flower beds and
for use in pots in the greenhouse, is recognised and admitted by
everyone. Messrs, H. Cannell & Son have made a speciality of these
plants, and in their hands rapid strides of improvement have been
made. Enormous trusses are now produced in profusion, and the size
of the individual pips would astonish most people who took the trouble
to measure them. An ordinary watch is completely hidden if one of
these pips is placed over it. Nothing of the beauty of the plant, be it
understood, is lost from its size. Some flowers may with size become
vulgar in the eyes of the fastidious, not so the Zonal Pelargonium.
With it the term “ vulgar ” can never be named, they must always
remain chaste and beautiful, the flower alike of the nobleman and the
mechanic. I will mention a few of the singles which were in bloom on
the occasion of a recent visit, and which I considered amongst the very
best. Blue Peter, raised by that prince of Pelargonium raisers, Mr.
W. B. Miller, is, though not a pure blue, unquestionably a decisive
step in that direction ; the flowers are medium in size, and possess a
very marked bluish tinge which a clear white eye aids in emphasising.
Albion stands pre-eminent amongst the pure whites, being a real
improvement on Swanley Single White. Amongst the salmons
Mascagni must be accorded a high place. In habit it is dwarf, bearing
blooms of fair size with the utmost profusion, and of a soft silvery
salmon shade with a -white eye. It is certainly one of the most
attractive in the collection. Mrs. French may be noted as throwing
enormous trusses composed of shapely deep pink coloured pips. Miller’s
Favourite is a brilliant scarlet large-trussed variety, which is very
striking. A very beautiful flower is found in Mademoiselle Trine. The
habit of the plant is vigorous, and trusses are abundant, being composed
of charming rosy magenta shaded pips. A bright scarlet worthy of
special mention is found in W. P. Wright. The plant is dwarf and
strong in habit, and carries its enormous trusses prominently above the
foliage. It is a variety with a great future. Marquis of Dufferin is a
grand magenta crimson coloured variety, with good sized pips. A
distinct variety is Spotted Gem, The colour is a clear purplish pink,
but the three lower petals are densely spotted with crimson. It is a
very charming variety. Numerous other very beautiful varieties were in
bloom, but those mentioned attracted my attention more especially. — H.

Septem'jer 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

221

- The “ Kew Bulletin ” for August, a copy of which has come

to hand, contains as usual much useful information. Among other
articles is a report of the “ Californian Fruit Industries,” and another
on the “ Plant Industries in the Caucasus.” Other important matters
dealt with include “ Fibre Investigations in the United States,” “Decades
Kewenses, VI,,” “ St. Vincent Arrowroot,” “ Pulping Liberian Coffee,”
and “ Henequen Hemp in Yucatan.” Some miscellaneous notes are
also given, and from these we extract the four paragraphs that follow.

- Leitnebia feoridana, Chapm.—Dv. W. Trelease, Director

of the Missouri Botanic Gardens, St. Louis, U.S. A., has forwarded to
Kew a specimen of this species, found by him in Missouri. This in¬
teresting plant, previously recorded from the salt marshes of Florida
only, was placed by its author in the order Myricaceas, but raised to the
rank of a monotypic order by Bentham and Hooker in the “ Genera
Plantarum,” vol, iii., p. 396. A good figure of it is given in Hooker’s
“ leones Plantarum,’' t. 1044. It forms a shrub from 2 to 6 feet high,
somewhat resembling a Willow, from which it differs in having a solitary
ovule affixed laterally. From Myrica it is easily distinguished by the
absence of resinous glands in the leaves, while the elongated (not globose)
inflorescence separates it from Platanus.

- Wood of Araucaria. — The trank of the historic Araucaria

imbricata, referred to in the “ Kew Bulletin” for January last, p. 24, as
having died during the previous autumn, has been cut up and a specimen
deposited in the Museum. The trunk measures about 30 feet high and
1 foot 4 inches in diameter at the base. A sample of the wood of a tree
of this species grown at Tortworth Court, Gloucestershire, and a walk¬
ing stick made of the same wood, both presented by Earl of Ducie,
F.K.S,, in 1890, are shown in Museum No. 1. The wood is light, soft,
and open grained, and apparently of but little value economically,
though in its native country it is said to be strong and durable. The
best known timber-producing species of Araucaria, however, are the
Moreton Bay Pine (A. Cunninghami, Ait,') and the Bunya Bunya (A. Bid-
willi. Hook). The first is a native of Northern New South Wales and
Queensland, and the second grows only in Queensland. Both are trees of
some 100 to 150 feet high, producing planks of very large size and
light-coloured even-grained woods, suitable for furniture, flooring, and
other carpentry work ; some samples of the Moreton Bay Pine are
prettily marked with small pale clouded knots, somewhat resembling
Birds’-eye Maple. It takes a good polish. Good specimens of both these
woods are shown in Museum No. 3.

- Fiji Fruit Trade. — In a report just issued by the Colonial

Office on the Fiji Island (No. 72, 1893), the following information is
given respecting the fruit trade : — The trade of the colony has advanced
rapidly during the year. The green fruit trade, however, has not in¬
creased to any great extent, and the profits made from the production
and export of this staple have undoubtedly fallen off. This is owing,
locally, to the presence of a disease among Bananas which prevents
their bearing (“ Kew Bulletin,” 1890, p. 272 ; 1892, p. 48). The Govern¬
ment have for some time been endeavouring to arrange for the temporary
services of a pathologist to examine the causes of this disease, and if
possible to provide a remedy. The trade has also been affected by the
competition of the Colony of Queensland in the markets of New South
Wales and Victoria. The export of green fruit to New Zealand has,
however, doubled within the last four years, as has also that to
Victoria. There will always be a sale for Fijian green fruit, as
the quality of the Bananas produced in Fiji is admittedly superior
to that of those coming from Queensland, which are often sold under
the name of Fijian Bananas. A few of the “ Gros Michel ” Bananas
suckers have been imported from Trinidad, with the view of seeing
whether they resist the disease better than the locally grown “ China ”
Bananas.

- Anthracxose in Vines. — The Vine disease known by the

name of Anthracnose, caused by a minute fungus called Sphaceloma
ampelinum, De Bary, is well known on the Continent and in North
America. As a serious disease, its presence has only been noted in
England during the past year, and it is probably widely diffused, speci¬
mens have been received at Kew for determination from such distant
localities as Dorking and Edinburgh. Anthracnose is an insidious
disease, which in its milder forms would not be likely to arouse appre¬
hension on the part of the cultivator, yet successive attacks for four or
five years often kill the plant. The young shoots, leaves, flowers, and
fruit are attacked. The disease on the young shoots appears at first
under the form of minute brown spots. These soon increase in size and
become sunk or depressed at the centre, the epidermis becomes broken
up into minute white downy particles, and as the disease extends the

shoots become almost black, the internodes are short, and the develop¬
ment of the leaves arrested, not expanding, of a harsh, brittle texture,
and hairy below. The present disease is quite distinct from the one
known as “ black rot,’’ although the two have by some authorities been
considered to be identical. The following method of treatment has
generally proved effectual in eradicating the disease In the spring,
before the buds open, the plants should be thoroughly sponged with a
50 per cent, solution of sulphate of iron in water ; the atmosphere at
this time should be kept damp. When the young shoots are about
6 inches long they should be dusted with flowers of sulphur, and if the
disease makes headway the dusting should be repeated, the sulphur
being mixed with an equal quantity of powdered lime. Very badly
diseased plants should be removed and burnt, as such are not amenable
to the above or any other mode of treatment. A detailed account of
this disease, also preventive methods and treatment, is given by Viala.
(“ Les Maladies de la Vigne.” Masson : Paris.)

- Stocks for Pears. — Mr. Spencer King writes from Ipswich :

— “ In my little garden I am experimenting by budding Pears of good
quality on stocks which have disappointed me. Bergamotte Esperen
and Fondante d’Automne both on the Quince are most disappointing,
although on the Pear stock in the same garden they do well. Amongst
other kinds I budded Durondeau on the Bergamotte Esperen and
Fondante d’Automne, and it bears very freely, and produces thus
double grafted far larger crops than the remaining original stocks.
Durondeau is a magnificent Pear. My original tree is on the Quince
stock trained to a wall, but in that case I seldom get a crop, as frost cuts
off the blossom.”

- The Weather in Hertfordshire. — Mr. E. Wallis, The

Gardens, Hamels Park, Buntingford, Herts, writes : — The weather
during August has been of a tropical character, and quite unprecedented
for the amount of sunshine, rot one full dull day occurring during the
whole month. Rain fell on ten days. Maximum in any twenty-four
hours was 0-32, on the 23rd ; minimum in any twenty-four hours was
O'Ol, on the 20th ; total during the month 1'74, against 3'40 of 1892.
Wasps have become a plague, and notwithstanding the destruction of
450 nests they are still masters of the situation, eating and ruining the
fruit before it is ripe. I find nothing to equal cyanide of potassium for
the destruction of their nests.

- Fruit Growinu in Australia. — Although, says an Austral¬
asian contemporary, nearly every kind of fruit procurable in Europe is
extensively grown in Australia, the two leading crops are Oranges and
Grapes, both of which are acclimatised fruits, the Orange having been
introduced about 1817, and the Grape about seven years later. The
orangeries in the Ryde and Parramatta districts are equal, as regards the
size of the trees and the luxuriance of the fruit, to any in Southern
Europe. In Tasmania neither the Vine nor the Orange has been
successfully cultivated, but in portions of Western Australia both appear
destined to become leading crops. In Victoria various efforts have been
made to cultivate the Orange, but without success. In estimating the
rate of production, considerable difficulty is occasioned by the absence
of uniformity in the statistical returns furnished by the different
colonies. Grapes being, for instance, estimated by the ton in one and
by the pound in another. This fact has long been a source of complaint,
but at present nothing has been done towards placing the returns on a
more uniform basis.

- Apples and Cool Chambers. — A number of experiments

that have been made by fruiterers of late seem to point to the fact that
when shipments of Apples from Australia to London are found to be in
bad condition on arriving at their destination, the cause must be
attributed to something besides faulty packing. An Australian paper
says that another important experiment recently made in Melbourne
strongly supports this theory. A number of fruit merchants and others
witnessed the opening of a case of Apples. A consignment of similar
fruit, packed at the same time and in the same way, was dispatched to
England by the steamer “ Orient,” and the Apples arrived in bad
condition. On the case that was kept at home being opened the Apples
were found to be in perfect condition, showing no sign whatever of
decay, and possessing their full flavour and sweetness. They had been
kept where the ventilation was by no means perfect, but where the
changes of temperature did not affect them in any way. The Apples
which comprised the Five Crown, Sturmer, and Jonathan varieties
were packed in an ordinary fruit case, each Apple being wrapped in
tissue paper, and paper shavings being used for packing. Some Pears
placed in the same case with the Apples were quite decayed, but they
are said to have been overripe when packed.

222

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[. September 7, 1893.

_ Steam versus Hot Water Heating.— Much has been said

about the preference displayed by the florists on the other side of the
Atlantic for steam heating, but Archibald Lawson of Chestnut Hill is,
says the “ American Florist,” changing his system of heating from steam
to hot water. He says that as he only has about 4000 feet of glass it
does not pay to have a night fireman, and as the old system does not
require such close attention as steam he thinks it will be profitable
to make the change.

- Summary of Meteorological Observations at Hodsock

Priory, Worksop, Notts, for August. — Mean temperature of month,
63 2°. Maximum on the 18th, 88-7°; minimum on the 6th, 41-3’.
Maximum in the sun on the 8th, 135-1° ; minimum on the grass on the
28th, 32-8°. Mean temperature of air at 9 A.M. 65-8°. Mean tempera¬
ture of soil 1 foot deep, 62-2°. Sunshine, total duration, 199 hours,
or 44 per cent, of possible duration. We had no sunless days. Total
rainfall, 1 34 inch. Rain fell on thirteen days. Average velocity of
wind, 7'6 miles per hour ; velocity exceeded 400 miles on two
days, and fell short of 100 miles on twelve days. Approximate
averages for August : — Mean temperature, 59-7° ; sunshine, 149 hours ;
rainfall, 2-36 inches. Very fine and warm month. The mean tempera¬
ture is higher than in any of the previous seventeen years, and the
maximum is higher than in any month since 1876. Of the previous
Augusts only 1883 had less rain, and of the previous twelve only 1884
had more sunshine. — J. Mallender.

- Pinks on the Riviera. — From time immemorial perpetual-

flowering Pinks have been grown on the Riviera, as they are in Italy,
and especially in Spain ; but until the last twenty years they were only
considered as household favourites, kept in pots on window-sills or in
small gardens. Since the fast trains have been established, which carry
the Riviera flowers to Paris in twenty hours and to London in less than
two days, the cultivation of Pinks, both in the open air and under glass*
has, according to M. de Vilmorin in a paper read at a meeting of the
Royal Horticultural Society some time ago, made a wonderful progress.
Acres and acres are now devoted to the growth of Pinks about Toulon,
Hyeres, Cannes, Antibes, Nice, and Beaulieu. Hundreds of glass houses,
or temporary structures simply made of two rows of glass frames
supported by wooden rails, give to the best class of winter-flowering
Pinks the help of some additional heat and of some useful shelter. But
acres upon acres are grown without any glass at all, straw mats or
canvas screens only being used to protect the plants from the effects of
radiation, and to afford them the necessary protection against the bad
effect of rain or cold dew.

- Curiosities in Classing and Judging. — I do not know

whether a very useful book could be written on this subject, but at least
a very amusing, as well as suggestive, one could. I have to thank an
exhibitor for troubling my mind with the topic, but it seems all the
same to have some attractions. At the recent Agricultural Hall Show
there was a class for a collection of Sunflowers, “ annual and perennial.”
Note the imperative conjunction 1 Continuing, the schedule said,
(“ Helianthus, Helenium, Harpalium, and Heliopsis only), to which
Rudbeckias may be added.” Did this addition present itself as a sort
of afterthought to the framers, and is thus added? Even if it were,
why not have included Rudbeckias into the select sorts in the paren¬
thesis ? But the real fun of the thing lies in the employment of the
word “ only ” after Heliopsis, and then Rudbeckias are added. What a
bull. So much for the class, now as to the judging. An exhibitor
asked me how I should interpret the requirement in the schedule
“ annual and perennial,” and I said as an imperative requirement that
both sections must be included. But the Judges actually, of the three
collections staged, placed first one —admittedly a most beautiful one — that
did not contain a single annual variety, whilst the second and third both
fully complied with the requirements. We need a court of revision for
prize schedules, and a court of appeal from improper judgments. — D.

- Wild Flower Competitions. — May I be allowed to endorse

Mr. Alex. Dean’s remarks (page 173) on this subject ? I always con¬
sider it one of the most unsatisfactory classes in country shows. In
many places we get over fifty entries for a bouquet of wild flowers.
Now, I take it this idea of making a bouquet or bunch is intended to
teach the children how to gather and arrange their flowers tastefully. I
should like to knovv in how many cases this laudable object is attained.
I venture to suggest about 5 per cent., the remainder are arranged by
their parents, and very often by a gardening friend. This is successfully
defeating the object in view. I often feel very sore on this point when
judging, for I see all the prizes going to bouquets that have not been

made by the children. I think a little reformation in this matter
should be made by the majority of committees when arranging their
schedule for the next exhibition. It is a matter that can be
readily remedied. I am acquainted with one village where they
have a very good method of arranging this matter. A rule is inserted
in the schedule stating that the children’s bouquets are to be arranged
at the place of exhibition, under the supervision of a committee¬
man. Each child is allotted a space on the table, where there is-
ample room to work. Although only a village, I saw eighty of these
little workers busily engaged on the morning of the show, the gentle¬
man in charge of them sitting on the end of the table. I do not suggest
this is the best method of securing a good display, for many of the
bunches came out of the ordeal in a very primitive manner, while
others clearly indicated they had been practising their work some time
previously. At all events, the object of educating the children was
attained. I cannot say my experience of committees is precisely the
same as Mr. Dean’s, for I know one place where ten first, ten second, and
ten third prizes are awarded, making thirty in all ; at another show the
judges were told to place plenty of extra prizes on the children’s exhibits.
At a small village show, where the bouquets were somewhat numerous and
the secretary the local squire, the judges were told to give prizes to all
that were worth them. It is very rare one finds a class for a collection
of wild flowers. Where such a class is given it should certainly be
stipulated, and extra points would be allowed for the correct names of
the plants staged. — JAS. B. Riding.

CANKER IN PEAR TREES AS CAUSED BY MITES.

“ M. Scheuten’s account of his observations [of the Pear-leaf gall
mite] was published in Wiegman’s ‘Archiv’ for 1857, and translated
into our own ‘ Annals and Magazine of Natural History ’ in the same
year. The leaves of the Pear trees in his garden were attacked by black
pustular inflated spots, under the epidermis of which he found the
species of Phytoptus which he named Typhlodromus pyri. On
examining a large number of spotted leaves in his garden, in which all
the Pear trees were similarly attacked (one tree having a third of its
leaves affected), he always found the same four-footed larvm in the
interior of the leaves, and, in most cases, on the exterior a species of
eight-legged mite, which he took to be the perfect form of the
Phytoptus. He gives figures of these, and from them it is plain that
the so-called larva is a Phytoptus, and the supposed perfect form a
Gamasus. These are here shown.” — (“ Murray’s Economic Entomology^
Aptera,” pages 340 and 341.)

Mr. Murray proceeds to discuss all the evidence for and against
M. A. Scheuten’s observations, and, reasoning from analogy, arrives at
the conclusion that Pbytoptidse (gall mites) are invariably four-footed,
and this has been accepted as authoritative by subsequent writers. But
some leave a loop-hole — say, “ the Phytopti, or gall mites, so far as
known, have never more than two pairs of very short legs on the lower
surface of the body in front.” This is conclusive that little is known of
the life history of gall mites from experience, except an occasional and
distant observation. Such are practically worthless, for to prove any¬
thing the observations must be frequent and consecutive, embracing the
annual cycle. From a cultural point of view this begins in spring or
early summer, and as a gardener I prefer to commence a description of
the Pear-leaf gall mite (Phytoptus pyri) from that time.

The mite lives on the small yellow shining young leaves, and causes
red swollen places on the upper surface, which later on become dark
red, and ultimately black. This is a common affection on the leaves of
the Pear tree in this country, usually commencing at the end of May
or early in June, but this year the attack began a month earlier. The
spots are oval in form and of different sizes (A, fig. 32), a leaf natural
size . On the under side of the leaf the spots are round at first, with a small
depressed dot in the centre. This is shown in B, the under side of the
leaf, natural size. Very often the blisters are close and run together,
and are so numerous as to cover almost the whole surface. This, as
almost every leaf on the tree may be attacked, greatly weakens the
trees, and renders them unprofitable.

If a section be made through a gall, and it is examined with a lens,
the cells in the middle of the leaf are seen, as at C, to be torn asunder, and
in the middle of the blister, on its lower surface, is a small opening (a).
This shows the condition of the gall while red, and there is neither
erineum (hairs) nor mites or eggs in the interior or at its mouth, but
the leaf hairs stand out from the leaf surface beyond the scope of the
magnifying power for measurement. Not a mite is to be found on the
affected leaf. Such is the state of affairs up to mid- July on the leaves
first attacked, as well as those recently and still red. Where are the
mites ? Perhaps the answer may be found in the fact that while I was
looking at some infested leaves overtopping a wood fence the owner of
the garden suggested that the rain had washed them all away 1

But the infection spreads from leaf to leaf, and shoot to shoot.
Summer pruning is of no use in getting rid of mites, for they pass from
the leaves first assailed to those of the young shoots springing from the
axils of the attacked leaves. One such shoot is represented in D, the
leaves being conspicuous by the bright red galls, and the central leaves

September 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

223

or growing point are galled all over. The mites also have galled the
shoot at h ; that is how and where canker in Pear trees caused by mites
begins. Examine the galls as we may, and search every particle of leaf,
not a mite is to be found. But the givlls swell rapidly, assume a darker
hue, and a section through a gall early in August reveals mites browsing
in erineum and laying eggs. This is shown at c, in E, section through
a developed gall ; and examining a similar gall later, say early in
September, we find the erineum gone, and the mites full fed, as shown
at d. The mites go in and out by the opening, and may be seen on the
leaf surface, only disturb the upper side of the gall. They are invisible
to the naked eye, and only just made visible by a good pocket lens.
Under a powerful microscope the mite is seen to have a lily-white body,
two pairs of legs near the head, which has a pale flesh tint, and ends in
a conical projection, containing the fine sword-shaped jaws and other
mouth apparatus. This, shown in the figure at F, is less than 1-200 inch
in length, and about 1-800 inch in breadth.

If examined microscopically later on in the summer only old mites
are found in the galls. There are plenty of skins, and some long lumps,
mite-like but shorter, without legs or bristles, and soon afterwards
empty (and much shorter than the bodies of the mites) receptacles are

formation of the galls lurking in Pear-tree leaves in early summer ? Why
do they not deposit eggs in the first formed galls ? What apparatus are
they provided with to pierce through the lower cuticle of a leaf ? and how
can they deposit an egg in a hole four times less than its diameter 1
Why is a four-legged mite egg or bud never seen in a gall but where there
are already the mites ? On what do the four-legged mites subsist from the
fall of until the appearance of the leaves in spring? The questions are
the objections to the mites being always four-legged, and the only
one met is that the mites live on the buds during the winter. If so,
why are the mites never found in the buds?

2, Assuming the mite to be always four-footed, do the mites ever

mate ? Are not they strictly confined to parthenogenesis ? Will par¬
thenogenesis endure indefinitely ? f-r"A

3, Granted the mites pass the winter in the six or eight-legged state
in the fallen leaves, how does it happen that if a tree is cut down or pol¬
larded that the mites do not attack the leaves of the sprouts springing
from the trunk ?

4, If the mites are six or eight legged, why do they not deposit eggs
in the holes first pierced ? This, of course, tells against them, and is the
grand secret, that is, they do, but they are not seen, for they are

found in the galls. Do not get alarmed if cut off legs as large almost as
the fingers move up and down, for they are only the belongings of enemies
to the mites, which they devour and clear out of the galls, except such
as escape. If the section be rather a thick one, say one-sixteenth inch,
it is possible that one of these creatures may be seen in perfect con¬
dition, and it is very unsightly. A four-legged mite can parade on a
joint of one of its legs easily ; but keep a steady gaze, then sooner or later
an active creature with six or perhaps eight legs will flit over the section
— in and out, everywhere in no time, so that it is difficult to get a good
examination of these interesting creatures. The best way is to immerse
the section of a gall in alcohol for about a minute, but the mite is very
difficult to find after the emersion. The best I have yet been able to
sketch is seen at G. This is the male; the female is larger, has also
eight legs, the two hinder divided into two hair-like extremities,
each for steadying her when depositing eggs, and in spring a long
ovipositor, very singular and not depictable. These mites are the
last occupants of the galls, except the animal that clears out the
four-legged mites, and may be a Cheyletus. The six and eight-legged
mites are seen on the leaf at the mouth of the galls, then they are found
on the trees before the leaves fall, and they are seen on the trees in
spring lurking in the cracks and crevices of the bark, their favourite
haunts being the cankerous places their parthenogenetic progenitors have
caused, as/ in H. Now we have to face a few difficult questions.

1, The mite (Phytoptus pyri) and all the sub-family Phytoptidae
are four-legged. Where are they from the fall of the leaf until the

enwrapped in the substance of the gall, and are not visible because
opaque.

Concluding, H shows a twig of a Pear tree cankered by the
Pear-leaf gall mite. It is distorted at /, and the spurs g have been
killed by the parasites. Such trees can only be cured by killing the
mites. There is nothing better for all mites than syringing the infested
trees with a sulphur solution, for all Arachnoidea succumb to it. It
may be made as follows : Slake 3 lbs. of quicklime in an iron copper,
adding 2 lbs. of flowers of sulphur and 3 gallons of water, besides that
used in slaking the lime. Mix and boil for a quarter of an hour, keeping
stirred all the time. Allow the mixture to settle, and when cool pour
off the clear liquid, place in stone bottles, and keep well corked in
a dark place. Use a pint of the bisulphide of calcium, as the liquor
is called, to 4 gallons of water, applying with a syringe or engine. It
may be used in winter to kill ihe mites in the lurking places on the
trees when the buds commence swelling, or as a preventive in spring
when the shoots are about 2 inches long or the first leaves about half
developed, using 1 pint to 12 gallons of water, repeating occasionally.
At the strength first named it must only be employed over mature
foliage, say in September. ..... t.

The Apple tree gall mite (Phytoptus mali) is similar to P. pyri m
its effects on Apple trees in producing canker, but differs in several
essential points entomologically, especially in the gall formation, which
is the only part about mites which has been well worked out. —
G. Abbey.

224

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 7, 1893.

Chrysanthemums in the Parks.

Chrysanthemums are somewhat extensively used for bedding
purposes in many of the public parks in London, and with good effect.
At Regent’s Park I recently noticed several beds filled with the early
flowering varieties, and these on a dull day are very striking at this time
of the year. In Hyde Park, too, summer Chrysanthemums form a
feature, and are usually much admired, the same applying to those in
other public places around the metropolis. — C.

National Chrysanthemum Society.

A MEETiNGt of the General Committee of this Society was held on
Monday evening at Anderton’s Hotel. Fleet Street, Mr. Harman Payne
occupying the chair. The minutes of the meeting of April 12th, and of
the special meeting of July 2l8t, were read and confirmed, after which
the Chairman read a suggestion from New Zealand that inasmuch as
certain colonial growers were of opinion that their cultivation of
Japanese varieties was little, if at all, behind the home growers, the
N.C.S. should offer a medal or other prize open to all growers or societies
in the Australian Colonies, these exhibits to be sent over at the exhi¬
bitor’s expense, and staged at one of the Society’s exhibitions. It was
resolved that the matter be referred to the Schedule Sub-Committee.
The Gosport, Crediton, and Tenby societies withdrew from afSliation.
The Secretary announced that the receipts up to the present amounted
to more than £150, and that the promises to the reserve fund had nearly
all been fulfilled. An election of a member to the Floral Committee in
place of Mr. E. Sanderson, deceased, was then proceeded with, resulting
in the appointment of Mr. Edwin Molyneux by a substantial majority.
The unsuccessful candidates were Mr. D. B. Crane and Mr. Witty.

Mr. Pearson of Chilwell and Mr. Shea being desirous of laying their
views before the Committee in regard to certain matters concerning the
working of the Society, it was, after some discussion, resolved that the
former be invited to attend one of the meetings in October, and the
latter a meeting in December to do so. Eleven new members were
elected, and the Port Elizabeth Chrysanthemum Society (Cape of Good
Hope) received in affiliation. A vote of condolence to one of the
Society’s Vice-Presidents, Sir John D. Llewelyn, was passed on the
occasion of the melancholy fatal accident to his son.

COMMENTS AND OBSERVATIONS.

Some weeks ago a writer in this Journal remarked that a note-book
was “ a record of impressions which pass away as rapidly as they come,
leaving behind them nothing but a memory.” Such is not exactly the
case, for “ impressions ” occasionally leave something more than “ a
memory ; ” but it frequently happens, as your correspondent observed,
that many useful hints are hidden away between the pages of a note¬
book, long forgotten it may be by the owner. There are exceptions, but
these only go to prove the rule, and how much important matter is thus
kept hermetically sealed from the world it would be difficult to say.
One thing, however, is certain, and that is if readers were to turn over
the pages of their records, sifting the corn from the chaff, and let the
bright light of publicity shine upon anything that might be useful to
the gardening community, they would be benefactors.

In this matter 1 am not altogether blameless, for it is my custom to
fill many note-books. Some of my observations are recorded for the
benefit of the public, others sink into oblivion. For the purpose of
adding to my store 1, in common with others interested in horticulture,
wended my way to the great Show held under the auspices of the Royal
Horticultural Society at the Agricultural Hall last week, and there
made a few notes, but observed more. Some of my impressions, I
concluded, would be worth “ putting into print,” but after reading the
detailed report of the Show which appeared in the Journal of Horti¬
culture last week, second thoughts suggested themselves, and the old
German proverb, “ Speech is silver and silence is gold,” came uppermost
in my mind. However, the pleasure of writing conquered, and there
can be no harm in referring to a few points that to me were specially
interesting. _

The first question that suggested itself to me was. Is the Show a
success ? From an artistic point of view it undoubtedly was, for, not
even excepting the display in the Temple Gardens, it was one of the
finest fruit, flower, and vegetable exhibitions ever seen in London. The
exhibits as a whole were of a high-class character, and the arranging of
them perfect. There were, it is true, one or two hitches in regard to
the staging, but these were alluded to last week, so let them pass. Yes,
the Council of the R.H.S. did their part well so far as getting together
a niagnificent collection of garden produce was concerned ; but were
their efforts appreciated ? In other words, was the Show financially
speaking a success? Judging by the number of visitors present on
most days a negative reply might safely be given. On the opening day

the attendance was decidedly poor, and on Thursday afternoon — from
3 o’clock to 7 in the evening — it was miserably thin. There were on the
latter occasion perhaps not more than 200 people — truly a sorry number
for such a grand Show. It is reported that only £40 were taken at the
barriers on the opening day. How does this compare with £535 taken
at Shrewsbury on their opening day, and on a subsequent day £1400 ?

Some persons present were puzzled to know why the exhibition was
so poorly attended, and were busily suggesting various causes. “The
Show has not been advertised enough,” mournfully observed a stand-
holder, who parenthetically informed me that he had paid a sovereign
per foot of floor for his stall ; but a champion of the Agricultural Hall
Company close by remarked that it was the people who did not respond.
That is so, and as we all knew it was the true cause of the thin attend¬
ance. The Agricultural Hall is a grand place in which to hold a large
flower show, but for this purpose the hall itself is in the wrong position.
Everyone who knows the north-east of London as well as I do will
agree with me that flower shows are not consistent with the tastes of
the inhabitants of ” Merrie Islington.” The Islingtonians will flock in
thousands to see a Military Tournament or a “ World’s Fair ” with all its
monstrosities ; but they will not pay a shilling or sixpence to see a
magnificent display of fruit, flowers and vegetables. That I predicted
long ago, and, now it is too late, perhaps those responsible for the affair
will agree with me. Had it been possible to have induced a member of
the Royal Family or some other notability to open the exhibition
formally, it might have proved some impetus to the attendance, but as it
is from that point of view a failure must be recorded.

At the risk of being set down as an incurable pessimist there is
another point to which I should like to refer — namely, the difficulty
exhibitors had to obtain passes. Whether this was so in every case I
am not prepared to say, but a report reaches me that a representative of
one of the largest exhibitors had some trouble in this respect. More
than one unlucky attendant with exhibits had to remain in the hall
the whole day, for his ticket only permitted him to enter once. Surely
this is short-sighted policy on someone’s behalf, and can do no good. I
could not ascertain what arrangements were made between the R.H.S.
and the Agricultural Hall Company, and am therefore at a loss to know
whom to blame. That matters but little, however, for the error is
equally as apparent, and should not have been committed.

But while pointing out these little failings one must not forget the
many good things that were observable. As already mentioned, it was
a grand show, and worthy of a better attendance. Fruit formed a
notable feature, the long tables of gigantic Apples of perfect shape and
colouring reminded one of the splendid exhibition in the Guildhall a
few years ago. The Apples, Pears, Plums, and Peaches exhibited by
Messrs. T. Rivers & Son were magnificent, and had such a splendidly
finished appearance about them as to “ make one’s mouth water.”
Growers no doubt made a note of the valuable Monarch Plum, which
was conspicuous in this exhibit, as being one of the best late varieties in
cultivation. Messrs. Bunyard, Veitch, Cheal, and Paul likewise, in
putting forth their best efforts, gave visitors a proof of what they are
capable of doing in growing fruit. The majority of the Apples staged
were remarkable for their colouring ; in a few cases the fruits were as
rich-looking as Pineapple Nectarines. Some of the Apples were not
quite so large as I have seen them, perhaps owing to the prolonged
drought, but Mr. Woodward, Barham Court Gardens, Maidstone, staged
a fruit of Peasgood’s Nonesuch which, according to a notice on the
exhibition card, weighed 23 ozs.

Grapes were beautifully coloured, and as a whole shown in splendid
condition. This was the general verdict of many experts present. One
curious fact, however, appeared to have escaped the notice of many
observers, and it may be worth recording. As reported in your last
issue, Mr. S. T. Wright, gardener to C. Lee Campbell, Esq., Glewstone
Court, Ross, exhibited some magnificent 6 lb. bunches of Black Alicante
Grapes, which for perfect finish could not be excelled. So far so good,
and, as they should be, the Grapes were much admired. But when
visitors read printed in bold type on a placard placed in front of the
Grapes, “ These Vines were winter-dressed with ‘ Killmright,’ 4 ozs. to the
gallon,” it appears as if something was wrong. “Would it not have
been better to have substituted ‘Feedmright’ for ‘Killmright?’”
sensibly remarked a bystander. Perhaps it would, for if Mr. Wright
had dressed his Vines with the “ Killmright ” insecticide, it was
obvious that he had also “ fed ’em right ! ”

In glancing over the numerous cut flowers one class in the competitive
section struck me as being somewhat out of the common. I refer to
“ a collection of Dahlias arranged for effect.” There were two exhibitors
in this class — Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons and Messrs. Keynes, Williams
and Co. As already reported, the first-mentioned firm secured the
premier award for a really meritorious exhibit. The Dahlias com¬
prising the various sections were arranged in sprays, and being fresh
and clean on the opening day made an imposing display. But was it
not a little out of place to use Maidenhair Ferns and small Palms in
pots among these flowers ? Asparagus sprays were also employed which
would pass muster, these being grown out of doors, as the flowers were ;
but I cannot help thinking that the Palms and Ferns looked a little
ambiguous. True, nothing definite was stated in the schedule, and
under these circumstances exhibitors were at liberty to use what they

September 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

226

like. This is written impartially, my object being to discourage the use
of stove plants with outdoor flowers rather than that of fault-finding ;
for, as before said, Messrs. Cheal & Sons’ Dahlias were deserving of the
honour bestowed upon them. _

Those persons who went to the Show for the purpose of seeing the
Orchids, as some did, must have been disappointed, for these were not
well represented. There was but one small group arranged on a table,
and the few visitors present made a close inspection of them. The
plants were from the rich stores of Messrs. F. Sander & Co. of St. Albans
and Messrs. W. L. Lewis & Co. of Southgate, and comprised some choice
species. A hybrid Cypripedium named C. Sander-superbiens, shown by
that well-known amateur grower, Mr. Norman N. Cookson of
Wylam-on-Tyne, Northumberland, struck me as being exceptionally
beautiful. This Cypripedium, moreover, is interesting from the fact
that it is the first Sanderianum hybrid yet produced. Mr. T. Statter of
Stand Hall, Manchester, I noticed, also had a good hybrid under
the name of Cypripedium Edwardi, the result of a cross between
C. Farrieanum and C. Veitchi. _

Agaves, like most succulents, are not everybody’s plants, but the
seedling exhibited as A. Leopold II. by W. B. Kellock, Esq., of Stamford
Hill, appeared to attract more than ordinary attention. It is, as you
remarked last week, “ a magnificent plant with an interesting history,”
the details of which the raiser was good enough to describe to me as
well as to others. The gist of the matter being given, however, on
page 195 of last week’s issue of the Journal it is needless to reiterate
here. It occurred to me, though, that a great amount of patience is
needed in hybridising Agaves and raising them from seed. Fifteen
years it has taken to produce the plant which gained a first-class
certificate, and obviously it has had every attention. Mr. Kellock
informed me that he had another plant of a similar kind and from the
same sowing at his home, and which he thought was the better of the two.
Experts, including Mr. T. Baines, have also expressed the same opinion.
When will Mr. Kellock bring it before the eyes of an admiring public ?

So far as I could see your lengthy report appeared accurate in the
main, but no mention is made of the two specimens of Dracssna lineata
shown by Messrs. B. S. Williams, and for which a silver Eanksian medal
was recommended. A similar honour was adjudged the same firm for
four specimen Tree Ferns of a particularly healthy appearance. Whilst
on this subject it may not be out of place to ask whether an award was
made to Mr. W. Cooper for the large number of greenhouses and heating
appliances ? No mention of such appears in any report that I have
perused, and upon asking an R.H.S. official I was informed that “they
had nothing to do with that division.”

The competition in the plant and cut flower classes was not so keen
as might have been expected. It was noticeable that in some instances
there was only one exhibitor, and in others none were forthcoming.
What was the cause of this ? Where were our leading Begonia growers ?
A class for a group of Tuberous Begonias arranged with foliage plants
was provided, and good prizes offered — namely, £7, £5, and £3, but not
a single exhibitor was forthcoming. The same occurred in the classes
for groups of Gannas, Liliums, Early Chrysanthemums, and Asters,
whilst of Zonal and Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums none were shown other
than in miscellaneous collections. These would have added interest to
what everyone must admit was really a grand exhibition, and moreover,
imparted a brightness amongst the rather dull groups of plants.

One more note and I have done with my observations this week.
Who did not notice the beautiful Exacum macranthum shown by Sir
Trevor Lawrence, Bart., and for which a first-class certificate was
awarded ? That it deserved this distinction no one can doubt, but it
seems curious no one ha? hitherto exhibited a plant of it before the
R.H.S. Perhaps it has been shown ; then why not certificated ere
this ? It is by no means a new plant, having been figured some time
ago in these pages, and I believe it was introduced from Ceylon in 1853.
Better late than never. — Obseever.

NATIONAL DAHLIA SOCIETY.

SHOW AT THE CRYSTAL PAL ACE.— Sept. 1st axd 2xd.

The combined effects of the weather and the great Show at the
Agricultural Hall thinned the Exhibition of the National Dahlia Society
somewhat, the tabling being in excess of the demands upon it. The
Islington fixture doubtless kept a number of miscellaneous exhibits
away, but notwithstanding this there was an excellent display. The
drought has told against the blooms somewhat, yet the majority were in
excellent character. Mr. John Walker came out in splendid style,
scoring a sequence of victories in the smaller classes. Why does he not
throw down the gauntlet in the largest ones ? The premier class brought
some excellent stands, and Mr. Turner’s victory was thoroughly deserved.

Novelties continue to pour in. On this occasion no less than eighteen
certificates were awarded. We are not going to say that any one of the
dozen and a half did not deserve to be honoured, but buyers will begin
to despair of keeping pace with the new varieties if they continue to be
turned out at this rate.

Show and Fancy Classes.

The principal class was that for sixty blooms. Show and Fancy
intermixed, and there were three competitors. Mr. Turner won with

a very even and excellent collection. The flowers were not exception¬
ally large, but they were as neat, even, and fresh as could be wished.
The back row blooms were George Gordon, Miss Cannell, Jas. Vick,
Maud Fellowes, Imperial, John Walker, Clara, John Hickling,
W. Keith, Seraph, Jas. O’Brien (Fancy), Wm. Rawlings, Rev. J. B. M,
Camm, Gloire de Lyon, Hy. Walton, Professor Fawcett (self), a yellow,
rose-tipped seedling, Jas. O’Brien (self), Duchess of Albany, and a
crimson seedling. Middle row : R. T. Rawlings, Hugh Austin, Wm.
Powell, John Standish, Professor Fawcett (Fancy), Matthew Campbell,
Geo. Rawlings, Grand Sultan, Comedian, Agnes, Shirley Hibberd,
Primrose Dame, Mr. W. Slack, Crimson King, Julia Wyatt, Richard
Dean, Mrs. Langtry, John Bennett, Burgundy, and Alice Emily. Front
row ; Willie Garrett, Purple Prince, Sunbeam, Dazzle, Mrs. Gladstone,
Ruby Gem, John Keynes, a buff seedling ; Herbert Turner, Mr. Harris,
Mrs. S. Hibberd, Nellie Cramond, Flag of Truce, Comedian, Diadem,
Goldfinder, a seedling, Kathleen, Mrs. Hodson, and Colonist. A heavy
and fine lot of flowers from Messrs. Keynes, Williams, & Co. secured the
second prize, Arthur Ocock, T. W. Girdlestone, Eclipse, Richard Dean,
Gloire de Lyon, Henry Bond, and Rebecca being a few of the best of
them. Mr. M. V. Seale was third.

Messrs. Keynes, Williams «fe Co. did better with forty-eight, defeating
the Slough grower in this class. Probably there were not many points
between them in either case, and it was the better finish of the flowers
which gave them the award. In their back row the Salisbury florists
had Geo. Gordon, J. T. West, Miss Cannell, Colonist, Harry Keith,
Jas. O’Brien, Henry Bond, Mrs. Glasscock, Dandy, Arthur Ocock, Gloire
de Lyon, J. T. Girdlestone, Buffalo Bill, Dandy (sport), Jas. O’Brien and
Rebecca (sport). The first named was a splendid bloom. In the middle
row they had Mrs. Gladstone, Mrs. Foreman, R. Dean, Mrs. Stancomhe,
Mrs. J. Downie (sport), Thos. Hobbs, Mrs. Langtry, Wm. Powell, Thos.
Goodwin, Gaiety, Jas. Cocker, Duchess of Albany, Rev. J. B. M. Camm,
Wm. Rawlings, Peacock and Majestic. In the front row were John
Hickling, Joseph Ashby, T. J. Saltmarsh, Nellie Cramond, Robina,
Harrison Weir, Willie Garrett, Wm. Jackson, M. Campbell (sport), Ethel
Britton, Crimson Globe, Frank Pearce, Mr. Harris, Mrs. W. Slack, a
crimson seedling ; and Hy. Walton. Mr. Turner’s best flowers were
Geo. Gordon, Miss Cannell Shirley Hibberd, R. Dean, Crimson King and
Wm. Keith. Mr. Seale was again third, showing, as before, much
smaller flowers than his rivals. There were five stands of thirty-six, and
that from Mr. John Walker, which was first, was without doubt one of
the very best in the Show. The well known Thame grower has rarely
put together so heavy, even and well-finished a collection, His back
row flowers. Seraph, Prince Bismarck, Majestic, Crimson King, J, T;
West, Harry Keith, Mrs. D. Saunders, W. Rawlings, Hercules, Arthur
Ocock, Maud, and Jas. Cocker were all splendid flowers, and most of
the others were very good, notably T. J. Saltmarsh, Duke of Fife and
Purple Prince. Mr. Humphries was second with a stand quite good
enough to win in ordinary competition, but for all that he was well
beaten by Mr. Walker. He had no exceptional flowers, but all were
fresh, even, well coloured, and finely finished. Mr. S. Mortimer was
third with heavy blooms, and Messrs. Saltmarsh & Sons fourth.
Mr, Walker won again with twenty-four, this time defeating four strong
opponents. He had a splendid stand, though relatively hardly so good
as his other. W. Rawlings, Geo. Rawlings, T. J. Saltmarsh and
A. Rawlings were four of the best examples. Mr. Humphries was
second with smaller but good flowers, Messrs. Saltmarsh, & Son third
and Mr. Mortimer fourth. The best stand of twelve came from Mr. A.
Rawlings, who had W. Rawlings, J. T. West, Geo. Rawlings, Rev. J. B. M.
Camm, Maud Fellowes, Willie Garrett, Mrs. Langtry, Harry Keith, Mr.
Glasscock, R. T. Rawlings, Professor Fawcett (self) and Mrs. Gladstone
in excellent order. Mr. H. Harris was second with much_ smaller
blooms, but even and fresh, Messrs, Cheal & Son third, and
Mr. Tranter fourth.

The amateurs came out bravely in the class for twenty-four, no less
than six competing. Mr. West, gardener to W. Keith, Esq., Corn walls,
Brentwood, was as usual to the fore, and he was placed first for a very
fine stand, the flowers being well developed, clean, fresh, and excellently
finished. The back row flowers were Willie Garrett (very good), Mrs.
Gladstone, W. Keith, J. T. West, G. Rawlings, Maud Fellowes, John
Standish (very fine), and Majestic. Middle row : Matthew Campbell,
Harry Keith, Frank Pearce, Arthur Rawlings, John Britton, W. Raw¬
lings, Clara, and Sunbeam. Front row : Victor, Wm. Powell, E. Sheer-
man, John Walker. Shirley Hibberd, Ethel Britton, Hy. Glasscock, and
J. C. Vaughan. Mr. Arthur Ocock, gardener to Mrs. McIntosh, Haver¬
ing Park, Romford, also had an excellent stand, though his flowers were
hardly so smooth and well finished as Mr. West’s. He was placed
second, and his best examples were Geo. Rawlings, Mr. Glasscock, Arthur
Ocock, and the Rev. J. B. M. Camm. Mr. Thos. Hobbs, Easton, Bristol,
was third with very neat flowers ; and Mr. W. Mist, Colling wood,
Ightham, fourth. Six also competed with twelve blooms, the first prize
going to Mr. Vagg, gardener to J. Theobald, E8q.,_M.P., Havering, Rom¬
ford, who had excellent examples of Geo. Rawlings, Maud Fellowes,
W. Rawlings, Arthur Ocock, J. Rawlings, Duke of Fife, Mrs. W. Slack,
T. J Saltmarsh, W. Garrett, R. T. Rawlings, Prince of Denmark, and
Mrs. Gladstone. Mr. T. Anstiss, Brill, Bucks, was a very good second ;
Mr. Hopkins, New Passage, Bristol, third ; and Mr. S. Cooper, Hamlet,
Chippenham, fourth. Mr. G. Boothroyd, 17, Orchard^ Place, Chichester,
had fair flowers of Jas. Cocker, Duke of Fife, Ethel Britton, John Walker,
Mrs. Gladstone, and W. Rawlings in the class for six, and won from
Messrs. Wheeler, 53, Bell Street, Henley-on-Thames ; J. Gilbert, Brook-
lands, Freshwater, Isle of Wight ; and J. Cousens, Langley Burrell.

226

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 7, 1893.

The single variety classes were about the average as to quantity and
quality. The best six of any dark variety came from Mr. J. Walker,
who had Prince of Denmark in beautiful order. Messrs. Keynes,
Williams k Co. were second with Niobe, and Mr. Humphries third
with Wm. Rawlings. There were nine stands in all. Mr. West showed
Mrs. Gladstone finely in the light class, and was placed first, Mr.
Humphries being second, and Messrs. Saltmarsh third with the same
variety, one other competing. Mr. Walker had a good stand of yellows,
being easily first with a splendid box of John Hickling. Mr. Humphries
was second with R. T. Rawlings ; and Mr. Mortimer third with John
Hickling ; two others competed. There were only two stands of tipped
flowers, Mr. Mortimer being first with Mrs. N. Halls, and Mr. Seale
second with Mrs. Saunders. A neat box of Frank Pearce secured Mr.
Humphries the first prize for striped varieties. Mr. Walker was second
with Matthew Campbell, and Mr. Seale third with Hy. Eckford. Mr.
Turner had a lovely box of Miss Canncll in the class for edged flowers,
and was placed first. Mr. West was second with J. T. West, and Mr.
J. R. Tranter third with Florence Tranter. There were four other boxes.
Mr. Mortimer had the best six of John Walker, Messrs. Humphries and
Such following ; six competed.

Cactus and Decorative.

There were three very good stands of eighteen Cactus and decorative
varieties, the flowers being very good all through. Messrs. Cheal and
Sons were placed first, having the following varieties in very fine condi¬
tion— Beauty of Arundel, St. Catherine, Black Prince, Professor Baldwin,
Honoria, Duke of Clarence, Mr. Tait, Christine Cheal, Ernest Cheal,
Delicata, Lancelot, Countess of Radnor, Sir Roger, Josephine, Countess
of Gosford, Bertha Mawley, Duchess of York, and Robert Cannell.
Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co. were second with a fresh, well-coloured
stand, in which Apollo, Countess of Pembroke, Dawn, and Lady
Penzance were conspicuously good. Mr. Chas. Turner was third. There
were six stands of twelve, and they made a brilliant display. The best
of them was that from Mr. Geo. Humphries, who had Juarezi, Amphion,
Sidney Hollings, Duke of Clarence, Bertha Mawley, Baron Schroder,
St. Catherine, Robert Cannell, May Pictor, Kynerith, Countess of
Radnor, and Professor Baldwin, in splendid order, the flowers being fine
and admirably coloured. Messrs. Paul & Son, the Old Nurseries,
Cheshunt, were a good second, but their flowers were somewhat lumpily
arranged, and would have shown to much greater advantage if they
had been better displayed. Mr. J. Stredwick was third with a very
neat stand, and Mr. E. F. Such fourth. Messrs. Keynes, Williams and
Co. won from two competitors with twelve true Cactus varieties, and
their stand was a delightful one. It was composed of a fine crimson
seedling named Gloriosa, albeit with a leaning to the decorative group,
Kaiserin, Duke of Clarence, Countess of Radnor, Miss Violet Morgan,
Robert Cannell, Delicata, Apollo, Bertha Mawley, Countess of Gosford,
Chancellor, and Lady Penzance. Messrs. Cheal & Sons were second
with Robert Cannell, Delicata, and Professor Baldwin very good, and
Mr. M. V. Seale a close third.

In the amateurs’ class for twelve varieties of Cactus, six blooms each,
Mr. J. West was placed first for splendid flowers of Joseph Chamber-
lain, Glory of Brentwood, Blanche Keith, Duke of Clarence, Charles Rolfe,
Marchioness of Bute, Bertha Mawley, Mrs. Keith, and four promising
seedlings. Mr. Stredwick received the second prize with six varieties,
three blooms of each : there were eight competitors. Edward Mawley, Esq.,
was awarded the first prize in another class for large and bright blooms
of Duke of Clarence, _ Bertha Mawley, St. Catherine, Juarezi, Delicata,
and Professor Baldwin. Mr. W. Hopkins, New Passage, near Bristol,
took the second prize, and Messrs. Cooper and Fowler the third and fourth.

Pompons.

For twenty-four varieties in bunches of ten blooms each, Messrs. J
Cheal & Sons were deservedly awarded the first prize for well formed
flowers ofBouled’Or, Grace, E. F. Jungker, Darkness, Ringdove, Georgf
Brinckman, Arthur West, Fairy Tales, Admiration, Lady Blanche, Sun¬
shine, Rosalie, Martial, Tommy Keith, Marion, Isabel, Favourite, Whisper
Eurydice, lolanthe, Eva Goldfinch, Phoebe, and Cecil. Mr. Charles
Turner was a good second. Little Lady, Captain Boyton, Isabel, Irene
and Janet being particularly prominent in his stand. Messrs. Keynes
Williams & Co. were placed third, and an extra prize was awarded to Mr
M. V. Seale, both staging excellent examples. With twelve varieties ir
bunches of ten blooms each three competed, the premier award falling
to Mr. George Humphries for a most even and brilliant stand, consisting
of Little Duchess, Darkness, George Brinckman, Arthur West, E. F
Jungker, Red Indian, Mabel, Lilian, Phoebe, Lorna Doone, and Whisper
Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, received the second award. Mars, Ladj
Jane, and Red Indian being the most prominent. Mr. E. F. Such was
placed third for a very fair collection.

In the amateurs class for six varieties of Pompons in bunches oi
ten blooms each, there were three collections staged. Mr. J. T. Wes!
received first honours for Arthur West, Mary Kirk, a seedling (brilliani
red), Winifred, Eva, and Tommy Keith. Messrs. J. Stredwick, Silvei
Hill, St. Leonard’s on Sea, and Mr. William Mist, Seveuoaks, received
the other awards in the order of their names. In the class for a similai
number of varieties, but six instead of ten blooms to form a bunch, there
were again only three exhibits, the prizes falling to Mrs. S. Cooper
Hamlet, Chippenham, Mr. C. Osman, South Metropolitan Distrid
Schools, and Mr. W . C. Pagram, Weybridge, Surrey, who were placec
first, second, and third respectively.

Singles.

Ihe singles made, as they invariably do, a very attractive feature.
In the nurserymen s class for twenty-four varieties, twelve blooms each

there were only two collections staged, these coming from Messrs.
Cheal & Sons and Mr. M. V. Seale. They ran each other very close for
premier honours, which were finally awarded to the first named firm,
who staged bright and fine blooms of Evelyn, Lowfield Beauty, The
Bride, Yellow Satin, Miss Linnaker, James Scobie, Annie Hughes,
Duchess of Fife, Gulielma, Amos Perry, W. C. Harvey, Eclipse, Kitty,
Lady Whitehead, Miss Roberts, Cleopatra, Ruth, Miss Glasscock, Duchess
of Anhault, Northern Star, Formosa, Duchess of Albany, Marion Hood,
and Victoria. Mr. Seale’s collection was well deserving of the second
place, as the form in many varieties was most perfect ; the varieties
were Annie Hughes, Miss Henshaw, Huntsman, James Scobie, Amos
Perry, Mrs. J. Coninck, Florrie Fisher, Alfonso, W. C. Harvey, Miss
Linnaker, Lady Whitehead, Duchess of Westminster, Miss Jefferies,
Duchess of Fife, Mrs. Gordon, Duchess of Albany, Alice Seale,
Northern Star, Duchess of Anhault, Victoria, Cleopatra, Gulielma, and
Miss Ramsbottom. There was a falling off in one or two bunches in
the front, otherwise the collection might have taken higher honours.
Three collections of twelve varieties were staged, and Mr. George Hum¬
phries was well ahead with the following collection — Florrie Fisher,
James Scobie, Amos Perry, Mrs. W. C. Harvey, Gulielma, Cleopatra,
Miss Henshaw, Eclipse, Miss Roberts, Miss Gordon, Duchess of Albany,
and Duchess of Fife. Messrs. Paul & Son and Mr. E. F. Such took the
other awards in the order of their names.

In Class 23, six varieties in bunches of ten blooms of each (amateurs),
T. W. Girdlestone, Esq., was the only exhibitor, and received the first
prize for Demon, Yellow Satin, Kitty, Ruth, Gris de lin, and Daisy.
Mr. Mawley was the only exhibitor in the corresponding class for six
blooms to form a bunch. He had Duke of York, Amos Perry, Rosebank
Cardinal, Miss Roberts, Enchantment, and Yellow Satin, to which was
awarded the first prize. With twelve varieties of six blooms Mr. T. W.
Girdlestone was the only competitor, and received the premier award for
Mikado, Maize, Demon, Cinderella, Little Frank, Sunningdale Scarlet,
Dearest, Prince of Orange, The Yellow Dwarf, and Awdry.

A class was provided for fancy singles, six varieties in bunches of
ten. Mr. Girdlestone was first with M.C.C., Tommy, Phyllis, Splash,
Irene, and Houri, all striped, splashed, or flaked flowers, and decidedly
attractive. Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons were second with Jas. Scobie, Stars
and Stripes, Gulielma, May Sharp, Miss Glasscock and Victoria, also a
good stand. Mr. Seale was third with Jas. Scobie, Mr. Rose, Mrs.
Barker, Duchess of Albany, Victoria, and Gulielma.

Certificated Varieties.

The following novelties received certificates : — May Sharpe (Cheal),
a Fancy single, buff with crimson centre, splashed and flaked with the
same colour ; Mrs. Harris (Cheal), a small Fancy single, very pale lilac,
the margins deep carmine ; M.C.C. (Girdlestone), a Fancy single,
yellow, flaked with vermilion ; Tommy (Girdlestone), a very large
Fancy single, yellow, with broad crimson flakes and splashes ; Phyllis
(Girdlestone), a Fancy single, white, suffused and splashed with rosy
magenta; Mrs. A. Peart (Ware), a fine white Cactus, which should
turn out an acquisition ; Matchless (Perkins), a very fine dark purple
Cactus ; Scarlet Perfection (Perkins), a beautiful round-flowered single,
very rich in colour ; Purple Prince (Perkins), a ruby-purple Cactus of
the true type ; Beauty of Wilts (Pictor), a beautiful and very distinct
Cactus, the upper florets broad and flat, the lower tubular and pointed,
colour brilliant orange vermilion, one of the greatest acquisitions of
recent years so far as the flower is concerned ; Lady H. Grosvenor
(Keynes), a pale yellow Cactus, lower florets blush ; Lady Penzance
(Keynes) a beautiful pale yellow Cactus of great size ; Chancellor
(Keynes), magenta Cactus ; Lilacina (Cannell), rich mauve decorative ;
Rowena (Turner), a charming Pompon, with yellow flowers, heavily
tipped with brownish red ; Captain Boyton (Turner), a Pompon, very
dark blackish purple, perfect shape ; and May Hillier (West), an orange
salmon Cactus, very large fine flowers.

Miscellaneous,

Messrs. W. Paul & Son, Waltham Cross, had a table of cut Roses in
stands and baskets, admirably arranged, as is usual with them. Messrs.
Laing «& Sons sent a stand of hardy flowers, well representing the
extent of their resources, being extremely diversified ; and they also
had a large group of their splendid Tuberous Begonias, which was
greatly admired. Messrs. J. Peed & Son had three very attractive
tables, two being filled with hardy flowers and Dahlias, and the other
with stove and greenhouse plants. The latter was particularly pleasing,
the centre consisting of a harmonious combination of Odontoglossum
grande, Eulalia japonica zebrina. Crotons Countess, Aigburthensis,
volutus, and Sceptre. Messrs. Cannell & Sons occupied their old
position, and were represented by some beautiful Cannas, such as
Progression, Alphonse Bouvier, C. Jacob, and J. D. Cabos, also by the
charming bronzy orange coloured Begonia Fashion, and an extensive
display of Cactus Dahlias, amongst which Cannell’s Gem (a distinct and
beautiful terra-cotta coloured sort), Lilacina (a decorative variety, with
rich mauve flowers), W. H. Cullingford (a light salmon scarlet), Robt.
Cannell, Ernest Cannell, and Mr. J. Budde were very prominent. Mr.
T. S. Ware had a very large and fine group of Dahlias, the centre being
raised in the form of a large shield of blooms, and long lines of others
stretching away right and left. Cactus and Pompon varieties formed
the greater part of it, but singles were also well represented. Amongst the
Pompons was a new variety named Florence Woodland, bright yellovz
tipped with rose, very pretty and distinct. There were also several
new Cactus and decorative sorts, amongst them being Mrs. Peart,
claimed to be the long-expected white Juarezi ; John Melville, orange-
scarlet ; and J. T. Barber, rich crimson.

September 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

227

HORTICULTURAL SHOWS.

MOSELEY BOTANICAL GARDENS, BIRMINGHAM.

August 29th, 30th, and 31st.

Prizes were offered for collections of Apples and Pears, and three
collections of 120 dishes each were staged. Messrs. Bunyard & Co.,
Maidstone, Kent, were first with a splendid collection of first-class
quality. Mr. J. Watkins, Pomona Farm, Withington, Hereford, was a
good second with fruits not quite so large, but very bright in colour.
Messrs. Lane & Son, The Nurseries, Great Berkhamstead, were third with
also fine fruit, but not so well up in colour as the two former. In
the class for six dishes of Apples, eight fruits of each, Messrs. Bunyard
and Co. were first with Stone or Loddington, Peasgood’s Nonesuch,
Potts’ Seedling, Warner’s King, Lord Suffield, and Cox’s Pomona. This
firm was also first for six dishes of Pears, with grand specimens of
Dr. Jules Guyot, Pitmaston Duchess, Grosse Calabasse, Marie Louise
d’Uccle, Beurr^ Clairgeau, and Williams’ Bon Chretien. Other classes
were also well filled. It was freely acknowledged to be the finest display
by far ever seen in the midlands, and will give a considerable impetus to
hardy fruit culture in the district.

The next feature of the Exhibition were Dahlias, which made a
fine display. Four collections in competition were staged, each 15 by
i feet, and Messrs. Perkins & Sons, Coventry, were first ; Messrs.
Harkness & Sons, Bedale, second ; Mr. G. Maylett, Worcester, third ;
and Mr. Wm. Shaw, Kidderminster, fourth. These exhibits made up a
most attractive bank of Dahlia blooms of all kinds, which were greatly
admired. In the class for thirty-six blooms of Dahlias Messrs. Heath
and Son, Cheltenham, were first with Mrs. W. Slack, Prince of Denmark,
Constancy, Harry Keith, Miss Cannell, Mrs. Saunders, George Rawlings,
Maud Fellowes, W. Jackson, Vice-President, R. Dean, Mrs. Wyndham,
Rev. J. B. Camm, Majestic, Wm. Keith, Mrs. George Rawlings,
Crimson King, Mrs. D. Saunders, T. J. Saltmarsh, Henry Walton,
R. T. Rawlings, Eclipse, Harrison Weir, J. T. West, William Rawlings,
Mrs. Langtry, Colonist, Mr. Harris, Mrs. Gladstone, Miss L. Large, Flag
of Truce, Willie Garratt, Mrs. J. Downie, Lustrous, and Henry Bond —
fine, even, well finished blooms. Mr. John Walker, Thame, was second ;
Mr. George Maylett, Worcester, third ; Messrs. Kimberley & Son,
Coventry, fourth ; and to Mr. W. Shaw, Kidderminster, an extra prize
was awarded. For twenty-four blooms Mr. John Walker was first ;
Messrs. Heath & Son second ; Messrs. Harkness & Sons, Bedale, third ;
Messrs. Kimberley fourth ; and an extra to Mr. Shaw. Stove and
greenhouse flowers in collections, some excellent Roses from Messrs.
Harkness and Son, Townsend of Worcester, and Perkins of Coventry,
and various other exhibits in competition were staged. Mr. John White,
nurseryman, Worcester, staged a large non-competitive group of Cactus
Dahlias, Begonias, Gladioli, and herbaceous and annual flowers and some
fruit — a bright and effective display, to which a large silver medal
was awarded.

There was also a fine display of vegetables, special prizes having
been offered by Messrs. Sutton & Sons (seven exhibits), Mr. T. Wilkins,
gardener to Lady Theodore Guest, taking the first prize with one of
his customary superb collections, and for twelve massive Onions, in
twelve varieties, a handsome large silver medal was awarded.

BATH. — August 30th, 31st.

This popular autumn fixture was favoured with better weather than
usual, and it is to be hoped the Committee had good reasons to congratu¬
late themselves upon the attendance of visitors on both days. The
arrangements at Bath are always worthy of high commendation, and left
nothing to be desired on this oecasion. Messrs. Pearson and Jeffery are
the Secretaries, and these gentlemen did their work well.

Fuchsias come first in the prize list, but better displays of these have
been seen at Bath in former years. Mr. J. Lye, gardener to the Hon.
Mrs. Hays, Market Lavington, the veteran grower and raiser of Fuchsias,
was well first for nine grand specimens, averaging about 9 feet in height,
and perfect pyramids. The varieties consisted of Novelty, Louisa,
Balfour, Duchess of Fife, Elegance, Pink Perfection, Charming, Lye’s
Favourite, Abundance, and Mrs. Rundle, all raised by Mr. Lye. Mr.
G. Tucker, gardener to Major Clarke, Trowbridge, was second, his
collection comprising an extra good pyramid of Doel’s Favourite. The
third prize went to Mr. F. A. Lewis, gardener to W. March, Esq., Bath,
who had neat well flowered plants. The first prize for six Fuchsias was
well won by Mr. W. Marchant, gardener to Jerome Murch, Esq., Bath, who
had highly creditable specimens of Charming, Bountiful, Lye’s Favourite,
Finale, Arabella, and Doel’s Favourite. Mr. J. H. Wilcox was second.
For four Fuchsias Mr. G. Snell, gardener to Mrs. Counsell, Bath, was a
good first ; the second prize going to Mr. H. Marchant, gardener to
Mrs. Doherty, Bath ; and the third to Mr. W. A. Burford. The best
single plant of any light variety was shown by Mr, G. Tucker,
who had Arabella in good condition. Mr. J. Lye was second in
this class, and first for a dark variety, showing in the latter instance
a grand pyramid of Charming.

Fairly good prizes were offered for stove and greenhouse plants,
and with these Mr. J. Cypher, Cheltenham, was most successful. His
first prize collection of flowering and ornamental foliaged plants com¬
prised a fine Bougainvillea, a good Ixora Williamsi, noble Kentias and
other Palms, and richly coloured Crotons. Mr. J. F. Mould, Pewsey, was
the other prizewinner in this class. Mr. Cypher exhibited in the class
for fine-foliaged plants and won. Mr. J. Deacon, gardener to Herbert
Harris, Esq., Chippenham, also staged good finc-foliaged plants, and
was second, Messrs. E. Cole k Son, Bath, being a good third. Mr, G.

Tucker had the good fortune to be bracketed equal first with Mr. Cypher
for six flowering plants, but this decision was not generally approved of.
Mr. Cypher had a very fine specimen of Bougainvillea glabra, Cleroien-
dron Balfourianum and Statice profusa being also fresh and good.
Mr. Tucker’s best were Ixora Morsei and Stephanotis floribwnda.
Messrs. Cypher and J. F. Mould were respectively first and second in
both classes for Ericas, the plants shown being fresher than might have
been expected so late in a forward season.

Exotic Ferns are always remarkably well shown at Bath. The first
prize for twelve varieties was won by Mr. G. Tucker, who had Gymno-
gramma sulphurata, Gymnogramma argyrophylla, Cheilanthes hirta,
Dicksonia antarctica, Asplenium nidus avis, Lomaria gigantea, and
Adiantums Farleyense, gracillimum, and concinnum. Mr. J. Deacon
was a good second, and Messrs. E . Cole & Son third. The best six
Ferns were shown by Mr. W. Marchant, who had moderately large and
very fresh specimens of Polypodium effusum, Pteris tremula Smithiana,
and Adiantums Farleyense, gracillimum, cuneatum, and decussatum.
Mr. T. Truckle was second and Mr. H. Marchant third. Mr. Truckle
was first in the class for one Fern with a grand plant of Davallia
Mooreana, Mr. G. Tucker being second with a good Gymnogramma
argyrophylla. Z^nal and other Pelargoniums were very well shown, as
also were Tuberous Begonias, Cockscombs, Liliums and Petunias. Mr.
Cypher was the only exhibitor of six Orchids, and received a first prize
for Calanthe veratrifolia, Cattleya aurea, Vanda cserulea, Cypripedium
insigne,Oncidium incurvum,and Dendrobium Phalaenopsis Schroederiana,

There has been a very marked improvement in the style of groups of
plants arranged for effect on a space not less than 100 square feet,
though Mr. J. Cypher was easily first. No attempt was made to form a
formal background, or such as some judges consider absolutely necessary ;
but instead of this there were three fairly large groups with elegant
central Palms and a series of smaller groups or mounds in front, all
being lightly connected with small Ferns, Mosses, and similar plants.
The groundwork of the mounds consisted largely of Maidenhair Fern,
springing out from which were Orchids, Francoas, elegant Crotons, and
other plants. Altogether this was a very charming arrangement.
Messrs. Cooling & Son were a good second, a series of groups in front
of an undulated background being the style adopted in this case.
Rather too many plants were used, but on the whole the effect was very
pleasing. Mr. J. Deacon was placed third for a good lot of plants lightly
arranged.

Cut flowers occupied a good portion of a large tent and made a very
beautiful show. Gladioli were finely shown by Mr. A. A. Walters, Bath,
who was first, Mr. T. S. Tottle, Taunton, being second, and Messrs. G.
Cooling & Son third. With twenty-four Dahlias, Mr. G. Humphries,
Chippenham, was well ahead, the second prize going to Mr. J. Newman,
jun., Bath, and the third to Mr. S. Cooper. For twelve Dahlias, Mr. F.
Lindsay, Frome, was easily first, and Mr. T. Haskins second. Mr.
Humphries was first for Fancies, Mr. T. Haskins second, and Mr. W.
Smith, Kingswood, third. Single Dahlias were very showy, and with
these the prizewinners were Messrs. Humphries, T. Truckle, and A. A.
Walters in the order named. Remarkably good were the Roses, though
the judges had no difficulty in awarding the first prize for twenty-four
varieties to Dr. Budd, Bath. This capital exhibit consisted of Mrs. J.
Laing, Alfred Colomb, Paul Neyron, Prince Arthur, La Franco, Louis
Van Houtte, Franqois Michelon, Mrs. Baker, Harriet Schultheis, Camille
Bernardin, Marchioness of Dufferin, Madame Victor Verdier, Queen of
Queens, Star of Waltham, Marie Van Houtte, Gustave Piganeau, Catherine
Mermet, Duchesse de Morny, Edith Gifford, Marie Margot, Mar^chal
Niel, Duchess of Bedford, Comtesse de Nadaillac, and E. Y. Teas. Mr.
T. Hobbs, Bristol, was a good second, A. Hill Gray, Esq., Bath, was
third. Another excellent stand of blooms was staged by Dr. Budd in
the class for twelve ; Messrs. G. Cooling & Son were a good second.
With twelve Teas, A. Hill Gray, Esq., was first, having splendid blooms.
Dr. Budd was second, and Mr. T. Hobbs third. Zonal Pelargoniums
made a fine display, and with twenty-four bunches of these Mr. G.
Humphries was first. Messrs. Cooling & Sons were second, and Mr. E.
Hall third. Asters were numerous and good, and with these the principal
prizewinners were Messrs. W. J. Jones, H. Hooper, A. A. Walters, and
S. Every. Mr. F. Hooper, Bath, was first for Hollyhocks, and Mr. W.
Smith second. Herbaceous flowers in bunches were grandly shown.
With these Mr. M. Pritchard, Christchurch, was first, Mr. A. A. Walters
second, and Messrs. Cooling & Sons third. The first prize for twenty-four
bunches of annuals was well won by Mr. A. H. Newman, Bath, Mr. F.
Hooper being second, and Mr. G. Garraway, Bath, third. Mr. Kitley,
gardener to E. Hall, Esq., \eovil, was first for twenty-four bunches
stove and greenhouse flowers, Mr. H. Marchant being second, and Messrs.
E. Cole & Son third. Mr. F. Case took a first prize for a hand bouquet,
Mr. G. Hallett being second. Very well arranged was the first prize
vase shown by Mr. J. Cypher, R. B. Cater, Esq., being a very creditable
second.

Fruit was shown in splendid condition. Three remarkably good
collections of twelve dishes were staged, only a very few points separating
them. Mr. W. Nash, gardener to the Duke of Beaufort, Badminton,
was rightly placed first, having extra fine Alicante and fairly good
Muscat of Alexandria Grapes, pretty Golden Gem and Hero of Lockinge
Melons, good Dyraond and Violette Hative Peaches, Humboldt and
Victoria Nectarines, large Williams’ Bon ChiGtien Pears, Brown Turkey
Figs, and Worcester Pearmain Apples, The second prize went to Mr. C.
Warden, gardener to Sir F. R. Bathurst, Salisbury, whose best dishes
were Alicante Grapes, Lord Palmerston and Sea Eagle Peaches, and
Flemish Beauty Pears. Mr. W. Strugnell, gardener to W. H. Long, Esq.,

228

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 7, 1893.

M.P., Rood Ashton, followed very closely. Five competed with eight
bunches of Grapes in four varieties, and it was no easy matter to decide
which were best out of the three leading collections, Mr. W. Taylor,
gardener to Alderman ChafEyn, Bath, was placed first, his Gros Maroc
and Alnwick Seedling being very fine, but the Black Hamburghs were
not so good in colour, and Muscat of Alexandria not fully ripe. Mr. C.
Warden was lucky in being placed second, for good as his Grapes were
the most even and really the smartest exhibit was staged by Mr. W.
Nash, who came third. The Alicantes staged by both Mr. Warden and
Mr, Nash were very good in every way. Mr. T. Jones, Bath, was well
first for three bunches of Black Hamburgh, Mr. Nash being second, and
Mr. J. Atwell, gardener to J. B. Brain, Esq., Clifton, third. In the any
other class for black Grapes, Mr. Marsh, gardener to Miss Marriott,
Bath, had grand bunches of Alicante, Mr. Nash being a good second
with the same variety, and Mr. J. B. Payne, gardener to the Lord Bishop
of Bath and Wells, who also showed really good Alicante, third. With
the Muscat of Alexandria, Mr. W. Iggulden, gardener to the Earl of
Cork, Frome, had the honour of beating the redoubtable Mr. W. Taylor,
Mr. T. Jones being third. Mr. Taylor’s bunches and berries were very
fine, but Mr. Iggulden’s fairly large bunches were much the ripest. In
the any other class for white Grapes, Mr. Marshall, gardener to J, Dale,
Esq., Clifton, was first with grand Buckland Sweetwater, and Mr. J.
Atwell second with the same variety, the third prize going to Mr.
Warden for pretty bunches of Mrs. Pearson. In the local class for
Grapes many good bunches were shown, Mr. Marsh being first with
Alicante ; and Mr. J. Tickell, gardener to Mrs. Stoddart, second with
good Muscat of Alexandria.

Melons were not particularly well shown, and with these the principal
prizetakers were Mr. R. Hill, Chippenham ; Mr. S. Hodges, gardener
to J. Fortt, Esq., Bath ; and Mr. C. Gliddon, gardener to Mr. Waller.
Peaches were both numerous and good, Messrs. T. Jones, H. Hopkins
(gardener to H. Prodgers, Esq.), and J. Ricketts taking the principal prizes.
Few Nectarines were shown, Mr. Strugneli taking the first prize, this
exhibitor also being successful in three different classes for Plums.
Filberts and Cobnuts were remarkably good, and so also were the Apples
and Pears. In these classes the judges acted very inconsistently, some¬
times going for quality and sometimes for great size. A grand dish of
Peasgood’s Nonesuch, staged by Mr. J. B. Payne, caused quite a sensation.
The heaviest fruit weighed 22 ozs. and the rest were nearly as heavy,
all being of good form and beautifully coloured. In addition to taking
a first prize a silver medal was also awarded this exhibit. Special prizes
were offered for Melons by Messrs. Sutton & Sons, and good fruits were
staged. The principal prizewinners were Messrs. Adlam, Allen, Pymm,
and C. Gliddon.

Vegetables were never before so extensively shown at the Bath
autumn show, several seedsmen offering prizes for collections and single
dishes. Mr. G. H. Copp, gardener to W. B. B. Erie Drax, Esq., Sherborne ;
Mr. T. Wilkins, gardener to Lady Theodore Guest ; Mr. F. Williams,
Mr. G. Garraway, and Mr. J. Hall divided honours very evenly, all
showing remarkably well.

Non-competitive exhibits included an excellent display of hardy
trees and shrubs. Gladioli, herbaceous flowers. Dahlias, Liliums, and
Alpines staged by Messrs. Robert Veitch k. Son, Exeter; a fine exhibit
of single and double Tuberous Begonias by Mr. B. R. Davis, Yeovil ; two
large stands of garden Roses, and some fine Apples by Messrs, G. Cooling
and Sons.

SANDY. — August 31st.

In the park of Sandy Place, by kind permission of Mrs. Foster, the
Sandy and District Floral and Horticultural Society held its twenty-fifth
annual Exhibition on the above date. For many years past this Show
has been held on the last Friday in August, but this season the day was
changed to the last Thursday, with the consequence of losing several of
its most valuable exhibitors, more especially in the classes for stove and
greenhouse plants. Notwithstanding this, however, the Show was an
excellent one, some splendid produce being staged. About two o’clock
in the afternoon — the time at which the visitors from some distance
away usually arrived — the rain commenced to descend in torrents, and
continued to do so for some considerable time, completely spoiling the
grass for walking, as it was thoroughly soddened by the downpour.
This, on the first occasion of the change of day, was most unfortunate,
as instead of getting an increased number of visitors, as the Committee
hoped and expected, there was doubtless a large falling off in the
attendance. The arrangements of the Show were complete and good,
much credit being due to E. T. Leeds-Smith, Esq., the Hon. Secretary ;
Mr. William Green, Secretary, and the Committee of Management for
the zeal and energy they had displayed in bringing together such an
excellent and thoroughly representative exhibition. Let us hope that
the Show was as great a success from a financial point of view as it most
undoubtedly was from the horticultural standpoint. We append a list
of prizewinners in the principal classes, the awards being made by the
following gentlemen : — Mr. J. Myers, gardener to Earl of Sandwich,
Hinchingbrook House ; Mr. Kipling, gardener to Lord Lyttou, Knebworth.
Cut flowers, Mr. W, Finch, gardener to Mr. Marriott, Coventry; Mr. R.
Carter, gardener to Capt. Duncombe, Waresley Park. Fruit, Mr. G.
Norman, gardener to the Marquis of Salisbury, Hatfield House ;
Mr. Maycock, gardener, Luton Hoo. Vegetables, Mr. Landers, gar¬
dener to Mr. S. Whitbread, Southill Park ; Mr. W. Ratchelous, the
Nurseries, St. Neot’s. Cottagers’ tent, Mr. G. R. Allis, gardener to
Major Shuttleworth, Old Warden ; Mr. W. J. Empson, gardener to
Mr. A. H. Wingfield, Ampthill House.

In the class for ten distinct stove and greenhouse plants in flower

there were two competitors, Mr. Finch, gardener to J. Marriott, Esq.,
Coventry, who was placed first with fine specimens, and Mr. George
Redman, Bynesbury, to whom the judges awarded the third prize.
The winner’s exhibit was composed of Clerodendron Balfourianum,
Statice imbricata, Ixora Duffi, I. Williamsi, I. javanicus floribundus,
Dipladenia amabilis. Erica Marnockiana, E. Aitoniana Turnbulli,
Allamanda grandiflora, and Rondeletia speciosa major, all of which were
grand examples of good culture and thorough training. Mr. Dale,
gardener to Mrs. Foster, Sandy Place, was accorded the first position
for twelve Zonal Pelargoniums, showing clean, well flowered plants of
the following varieties : — Gambetta, Mrs. Robertson, Hermia, Queen of
the Belgians, Laura Strachan, Thetis, Henry Jacoby, Madame Thibaut,
lanthe, Lucy Bosworth, Rev. F. Atkinson, and Lord Chesterfield. The
second and third prizes were awarded to Mr. Empson, gardener to Mr.
A. H. Wingfield, Ampthill, and Mr. Redman in the order of their names.
Though only three exhibits were staged in this class the competition
was most keen, the plants in each case being highly creditable. Mr.
Empson was awarded the first prize fora group of plants, which included
Palms, Crotons, Achimenes, Liliums, Ferns, and Tricolor Pelargoniums.
Mr. Claydon, gardener to Mrs. Astell, Woodbury Hall, Sandy, was
a good second, and Mr. Redman third. In the class for six foliage
plants, distinct, Messrs. Empson, Claydon, and Redman were again
awarded the prizes in the order in which they are named.

The second prize only was accorded in the class for six stove and
greenhouse plants in flower, and it was given to Mr. Claydon, who
staged Stephanotis floribunda, Anthurium Andreanum, Allamanda
cathartica, Dipladenia amabilis, and Plumbago capensis alba. In the
class for six Coleuses in distinct varieties Mr. Redman was first and
Mr. Empson second. The winner’s plants were small, but of excellent
shape and fine colour. Mr. Claydon was a worthy first for six
stove and greenhouse Ferns, his plants being magnificent examples,
which reflected high credit on the grower. The exhibit comprised
Adiantum grandiceps, A. farleyense, A. formosum, A. gracillimum,
A. cuneatum, and Dicksonia antarctica. The second prize was taken
by Mr. Empson with fine plants, and the third by Mr. Redman.
E. T. Leeds-Smith, Esq., Sandy, was placed first for six hardy Ferns,
the third prize being taken by Mr. Redman. Mr. Claydon gained the
premier award for six pots of Achimenes, staging healthy and profusely
flowered examples. The third prize was won by Mr. Redman. For four
Cockscombs Mr. Claydon was again first with beautiful examples, Mr.
Redman being second, and Mr. A. Burgess, Wimpole, third. In the
class for six Begonias in flower, distinct, Mr. Claydon was a good first,
and Mr. Addington, St. Neot’s, second. Mr. Finch was first for a
specimen stove or greenhouse plant in flower with Erica Marnockiana
in grand condition. Mr. Finch was also first for a specimen foliage
plant, staging Dracaena indivisa lobata in very fine form.

The cut flower classes were not as a rule keenly contested, though
soms very handsome blooms were shown, particularly amongst the
Gladioli from Messrs. Burreil & Co., and the Roses from Mr. George
Monies, Hitchin. In the class for twenty-four bunches of herbaceous plants,
Messrs. Laxton Bros., Bedford, were an excellent first. Amongst the
flowers in this stand were Anemone japonica, Helianthus multiflorus
plenus. Lychnis chalcedonica plena, and Chrysanthemum maximum.
Mr. Hunt, Sandy, was awarded the second prize for a highly creditable
exhibit. For twelve bunches of Pompon Dahlias, six blooms in each
bunch, Messrs. J. Burrell & Co., Howe House Nurseries, Cambridge, were
placed first with a fine stand, which was composed of Cupid, White
Aster, Mabel, Favourite, Whisper, Isabel, Fairy Tales, Admiration,
Phoebe, Red Indian, Darkness, and E. F. Junker. Mr. R. Burgin,
Bynesbury, was placed second with a creditable exhibit. Messrs. J.
Burrell & Co. were again awarded the first prize in the class for twelve
bunches of Cactrrs Dahlias, six blooms in each bunch. The following
were the varieties staged : — Kynerith, Marchioness of Bute, Robert
Maher, Baron Schroder, Juarezi, Baldwin, Amphion, Delicata, H. Free¬
man, Duke of Clarence, Bertha Mawley, and Black Prince. In the class
for twenty-four spikes of Gladioli, in not less than eighteen distinct
varieties, Messrs. J. Burrell «Sc Co. were placed first, their stand including
some magnificent spikes of beautifully coloured blooms. Amongst the
best may be mentioned Le Vesuve, Rosalind, Baroness Burdett Coutts,
Delicata, Madeline, Glow, Hilda, Formosa, and Letitia. Mr. S. Wilkin¬
son, was placed third. Mr. George Monies, Hitchin, easily carried off
the highest award for six Roses in distinct varieties, staging some
beautiful blooms.

Fruit was finely staged, though it was not very extensive ; but
this may perhaps be accounted for by the fact of the great Show at the
Agricultural Hall being open at the same time, and thus drawing many
of the exhibitors southwards as far as London. Mr. G. R. Allis, gardener
to Major Shuttleworth, Old Warden Park, Biggleswade, was awarded
the first prize and a silver medal for a collection of fruit of eight distinct
kinds. Dishes of Apples, Pears, Plums, Peaches, Nectarines, and Grapes
Black Alicante and Foster’s Seedling comprised the exhibit, which was
a meritorious one, the value of which would have been much enhanced
had Mr. Allis troubled to give the specific names in each case. Mr. L.
James, Stevenage, was a good second ; Mr. Empson a close third, and
Mr. Burgess fourth. In the class for six distinct kinds of fruits Mr. G.
Cranfield, Cambridge, was deservedly accorded the first place, showing
black and white Grapes, Melon, Peaches, Apples, and Figs. Mr. C.
Forbes was a fairly good second, and Mr. R. Carter third. Mr. Allis
was first in the class for any black Grape other than Hamburgh with
two bunches of Black Alicante, Mr. Empson being second with Madres-
field Court, and Mr. Moore third. In the class for two bunches of Black

September 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

229

Hamburgh Grapes Mr. Moore, St. Neots, was lirst with splendid examples ;
Mr. G. R. Allis second with good bunches, and Mr. Cranfleld third.
Mr. Empson was first for two bunches of Muscat of Alexandria Grapes,
staging a highly creditable pair ; Messrs. Forbes and Cranfield being
second and third in the order of their names. Mr. James was awarded
the first prize for a dish of Figs grown out of doors with fine fruits of
Black Ischia. Mr. James was again first in the class for a dish of dessert
Plums, staging highly creditable fruits of Lawrence’s Gage, the second,
third, and fourth prizes going to Messrs. Burgess, Claydon, and Maudlin.
The competition was remarkably keen in this class, fifteen dishes of
Plums being staged. Mr. Claydon, with beautiful fruits of Pond’s
Seedling, took the premier award in the class for a dish of culinary
Plums ; Mr. Wilkinson being second, Mr. Allis third, and Mr. Wade
fourth. The exhibits in this class numbered ten, so that competition
again ran very keen. The class, however, which brought the highest
number of exhibits was for a dish of eight dessert Pears, seventeen com¬
petitors being represented. Mr. James was awarded the first prize, Mr.
Empson being second, and Mr. Hobbs, St. Ives, third. Mr. Empson was
first in the class for five culinary Pears, Mr. James second. Dr. Swain,
Three Counties Asylum, third, and Mr. Wade fourth.

Vegetables, as may have been expected, were not largely shown, but
those staged were most of a very high order of merit. This was
particularly the case with the Onions, Carrots, and Turnips. Celery
was exceptionally good, and some of the Red Cabbages staged were
enormous. In the c’ass for a basket of vegetables in twelve kinds, Mr.
Empson was first with a clean well-grown collection, which included
Potatoes, Onions, Turnips, Tomatoes, Celery, Globe Artichokes, Cauli¬
flowers, Carrots, Marrows, and Cucumbers. Mr. Burgess was a very
good second, Mr. G. Wood being third, and Mr. F. Faints, Hertford,
fourth. Mr. Carter was accorded the first prize for a basket of six kinds
of vegetables. This exhibit was composed of Potatoes, Onions, Turnips,
Tomatoes, Peas, and Cauliflowers. The second prize was won by Mr.
Andrews with a good basket. For a collection of Potatoes, to include
three round and three kidney varieties, named, six tubers of each, Mr.
T. Clark, Huntingdon, was first with The Queen, Suttons’ Satisfaction,
Uncle John, Lord Tennyson, Reading Russet, and Reading Ruby, all of
which were in excellent condition. Mr. Hemmants, Peterborough, was
deservedly accorded the second prize,

Messrs. Cutbush & Son, nurserymen, Highgate, arranged a
very effective group of greenhouse and stove plants, in which
Crotons Queen Victoria, Disraeli, Majesticus, Mrs. Dorman, Dracmna
Doucetti, Abutilon Souvenir de Bonne, and Palms were very
striking and effective. Messrs. Laxton Brothers, Bedford, staged a
collection of blue Sweet Peas and a magnificent cross of white
flowers. Mr. Willcock, nurseryman, Bedford Road, Sandy, exhibited
a group of foliage plants, in the arrangement of which much taste was
displayed ; the clean healthy Palms were a particularly noticeable
feature in this group. The three last-named exhibits were not for
competition.

BRIGHTON. — September 5th and 6th.

The autumn Exhibition, held under the auspices of the Brighton
and Sussex “ New ” Horticultural Society, took place on Tuesday and
Wednesday last, when an exceptional display of produce was staged.
The Show, which was held in the Corn Exchange and the Dome, was of
unusual dimensions ; so numerous in fact were the exhibits that it was
found necessary to erect three tents to provide adequate space in which
to place them. As has been said, the display was in every way a
grand one, and when it is mentioned that six exhibits were arranged
in the class for a group to be arranged for effect in a space not
exceeding 150 square feet, and twenty-nine dishes in the class for
dessert Pears, some idea will be conveyed of the magnitude of the
Show. The Judges had a very hard task in adjudicating on the stands,
but their awards appear to have given every satisfaction. Great credit
is due to Mr. Mark Longhurst, the Secretary, Mr. Lewis, and other
members of the Committee for the industry they must have displayed in
the arrangements of the Show, which were in every way complete.

In the class for six stove and greenhouse plants in bloom the first
prize went to Mr. T. Portnell, gardener to Sir A. Lamb, Bart., Beau port.
Battle, who staged good specimens of Bougainvillea glabra, Allamanda
magnifica, Lapageria rosea, Erica Irbyana, Dipladenia Brearleyana,
and Erica Aitoniana Turnbulli. The second prize was awarded to
Mr. A. Offer, gardener to J. Warren, Esq., Handcross Park, Crawley ;
Mr. E. Meachen, gardener to Mrs. Armstrong, Woodslee, Withdeane,
being a close third. The competition in the class for six stove and
greenhouse foliage plants was keen, Mr. Offer was accorded the premier
position ; the second and third prizes were awarded to Mr. E. Meachen
and Mr. W. Peel, gardener to Miss Todd, Sidford Lodge, Shirley,
Southampton, in the order named. For six stove and greenhouse Ferns
Mr. Offer was deservedly accorded the first prize with splendid examples,
the second prize going to Messrs. W. Miles & Co., nurserymen, Hove ;
third, Mr. W. Peel. For a specimen foliage plant Mr. Offer was first
with fine plant of Croton Warreni, Mr. W. Peel being second, and Mr.
Portnell third. Mr. Offer was again first for a specimen flowering
plant, showing Lapageria rosea in grand condition, Mr. L. Budworth,
gardener to C. Hill, Esq., Rockhurst, West Hoathley, second with a
good Dipladenia hybrida ; third going to Mr. W. Peel.

In the class for six Tuberous-rooted Begonias the competition was
very keen, Mr. Head, The Drive Nursery, West Brighton, being a good
first with finely flowered plants ; the second prize being won by Mr. Jas.
Dawson, Silverhill, St. Leonards, and the third by Mr. E. Meachen. Mr.
E. Meachen was first for six Fuchsias, showing Grand Duchess Maria,

Mrs. Rundle, and Mrs. Burroughs ; Mr. J. Hill, gardener to M. Wallis,
Esq., Withdean, being a good second. Mr. Murrell, gardener to Mrs.
Macdonald, Manor House, Preston, was first for six Zonal Pelargoniums
with excellently bloomed plants ; Mr. Meachen was second, and Mr.
H. Head third. Groups were well shown, six competitors staging
exhibits in the leading class. Mr. Wills was awarded the first prize for
a beautiful arrangement. Amongst the best of the plants were Palms,
Francoa ramosa. Tuberoses, Celosias, Carnations, Crotons, Eucharises,
with a groundwork of Ferns. Mr. W. Peel was a very close second.
Tuberoses, Liliums, Crotons, Palms, and Amaryllises were noticeable in
this exhibit. Mr. E. Meachen was a very close third. In the class
for a group arranged in a space not exceeding 80 square feet, Mr. G.
Sims, gardener to C. J. Inwood, Esq., Dyke Road, Brighton, was placed
first for a beautiful group. Palms, Liliums, and Begonias being parti¬
cularly prominent ; Mr. Budworth was second with a somewhat heavy
arrangement, and C. W. Catt, Esq., Middle Street, Brighton, being
third. For a group of Ferns, Rev. Sir G. C. Sheffner, Lewes, was first,
Messrs. W. Miles & Co. second, and Mr. G. Miles third.

Cut flowers were very largely shown, especially Dahlias, which were
exceptionally fine. In the class for a box of stove and greenhouse
flowers Mr. Portnell was first. This exhibit included Vallota major,
Statice Gilbert!, and Anthurium Scherzerianum amongst others.
Mr. Horscroft, gardener to T. Potter, Esq., Hapstead House,
Ardingly, was second, and Mr. H. Garnett, gardener to R. G.
Fletcher, Esq., Preston Park, third. Mr. Archer, gardener to Miss
Gibson, Hill House, Saffron Walden, was first in the class
for a box of cut blooms in twenty-four distinct varieties. Amongst
the most prominent in this stand were Allamanda Hendersoni,
Eucharis amazonica, Dipladenia amabilis, Lapageria alba, and Ixora
Williamsi. Messrs. J. Cheal & Son, Crawley, were successful in the
classes for single, Pompon, Cactus, and double Dahlias. In the
class for twenty-four single Dahlias they staged a grand collection,
amongst which The Bride, Amos Perry, Miss Henshaw, Formosa,
Cetewayo, and May Thorpe were conspicuous. Mr. E. Such, nurseryman.
Maidenhead, was second. In the class for Pompon Dahlias Messrs.
Cheal staged Sunshine, Admiration, Isabel, Favourite, and Arthur
West in exceptionally good form. Mr. Humphries, nurseryman, Chip¬
penham, was second, and Mr. E. Such third. Amongst the best of
Messrs. Cheat’s Cactus blooms must be mentioned Robert Cannell, Black
Prince, Delicata, Duchess of York, Sir Roger, and Josephine. Mr. Hum¬
phries was second, and Mr. Such third. In the class for twenty-four
Show and Fancy varieties Messrs. Cheal & Son showed, amongst others,
Wm. Rawlings, J. T. West, Goldfinder, Mrs. Jefford, Mrs. Kendal, and
Crimson King. Mr. Mitchell, gardener to Sir Jas. Colquhown,
Bart., Hastings, was a good second, and Mr. Jas. Dawson third. The
classes for herbaceous flowers were very keenly contested. Messrs. Gar-
roway, Bath ; Goldsmith, gardener to Sir E, Loder, Horsham ; Manton,
gardener to Mrs. Clifford Bonner, Bolney ; and E. Such being amongst
the most successful competitors. Roses were fairly well shown by
Messrs. Garroway, T. Durrant ; Young, Eastbourne ; Geo. Piper, Uckfield,
and Woollard, Lewes The table decorations were very beautiful, and
highly creditable to the various exhibitors.

The display of fruit was a grand one, the entries being large in
almost every class. The Grapes were fine, the bunches as a rule being
of good size, symmetrical in shape, and of perfect finish. Peaches were
also good, the colouration in some of the fruits being quite exceptional.
Melons were shown in excellent condition, as also were Plums and
Green Gages. In the four classes devoted to Apples the entries reached
the good total of sixty-four, and the fruit being of superb quality the
competition ran very high and close. But it was in the class for a
dish of dessert Pears that the exhibits reached the highest total, there
being twenty-nine dishes staged. Some fruits of Souvenir du Gongres,
shown by Mr. Spottiswood, The Gardens, Queen’s Park, Brighton, were
deservedly awarded the premier position. They were in excellent con¬
dition and beautifully finished. The second prize was accorded to Mr.
Goldsmith, and the third to Mr. J. Collins. In addition to these prizes
some of the exhibits were of such merit that the judges strongly
recommended that extra prizes should be given. The number of fruits
to compose a dish in the above class was six, so that the exhibits took
up a very large amount of tabling.

Vegetables were not staged in such great numbers as fruit, but the
quality throughout left little to be desired. This was particularly the
case in the classes for French and Runner Beans, these being shown in
strong force and first rate quality. Beet was grand, clean shapely roots
being staged. There were five collections staged in the class for nine distinct
kinds of vegetables, some good produce being exhibited. The first prize went
to Mr. Garroway, Bath, who staged Autumn Giant Cauliflowers, the Lyon
Leeks, White Plume Celery, Webb’s Giant Runner Beans, Oxonian Toma¬
toes, Abundance Potatoes, Duke of Albany Peas (perhaps the only weak
point), and Pragnell’s Exhibition Beet. Mr. A.Ward,Muntham, Horsham,
was placed first for a collection of vegetables in six kinds. This exhibit
consisted of Vicar of Laleham Potatoes, Perfection Tomatoes, Sutton’s
A1 Onions, Snowball Turnips, Mammoth Cauliflowers, and Intermediate
Carrots, which together formed a highly creditable exhibit. The special
prize offered by Messrs. J. Cheal & Son for a collection of vegetables
brought only one competitor, Mr. Sands, gardener to T. Bannister, Esq.,
Hayward’s Heath, being successful. In the class for a collection of
Potatoes in six distinct varieties Mr. Kemp, gardener to R. S. C.
Dickens, Esq., Horsham, was placed first out of the nine com¬
petitors, the exhibit being an excellent one in every way. The
following varieties were staged by the winner : Sutton’s Best of All

230

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 7, 1893,

Satisfaction, Beauty of Hebron, Early Puritan, Schoolmaster and Snow¬
ball.

Miscellaneous exhibits, although not very numerous, were good,
Messrs. J, Cheal & Sons arranged a large table with Apples, Pears^ and
Dahlias. Amongst the best of the Pears were Williams’ Bon Chretien,
King Edward, and Belle de Bruxelles ; and of Apples Queen, Cox’s
Orange Pippin, Yorkshire Beauty, King of the Pippins, and Mere de
Manage. Messrs. E. D. Shuttleworth & Son, Peckham Rye, and Fleet,
Hants, showed a charming table of plants, prominent amongst which
were Crotons, Carnations, Liliums, and Ferns. Messrs. Balchin and
Son, Hassocks Nurseries, had a stand devoted to bulbous roots, which
produced an excellent effect ; and Messrs. Tilley Bros,, Brighton, one of
bulbs and horticultural sundries.

ROYAL AQUARIUM.— September 6th, 7th, and 8th.

An exhibition of early Chrysanthemums, Dahlias, and Gladioli
was held at the Royal Aquarium, Westminster, on the above dates.
The principal class for Chrysanthemums was for twenty-four bunches,
not less than three flowers in each bunch. There were two competitors,
and the first prize went to Mr. E. F. Such, Maidenhead, for a charming
collection of fresh blooms. Mr. Davis was second. Mr. H. Shoesmith,
gardener to W. Hodgson, Esq., Shirley Cottage, Croydon, was first with
twelve blooms of Madame C. Desgranges, showing fairly developed
flowers for the season. Mr. W. C. Pagram, gardener to A. F. Hobhouse,
Esq., The Whin, Weybridge, was awarded the second prize. Mr. Shoe-
smith was given the third prize for a dozen blooms of Mrs. Burrell.
For twelve blooms of any large flowering variety except Madame

C. Desgranges, Mr. J. Agate, Havant, was first. The second prize went to
Mr. A. McMillan, gardener to Jas. Curie, Esq., Trinity Cottage, Edinburgh.

Mr. D. B. Crane, Archway Road, Highgate, secured the premier prize
for twelve Pompons, three flowers of each, Miss Debenham, St. Peter’s,
St. Albans, being second. Mr. W. C. Pagram was first with six bunches
of Madame C. Desgrange, and Mr. Shoesmith second. The same
exhibitors secured the prizes for six bunches of any yellow variety of
Madame C. Desgrange. There were also only two competitors in the
class for six blooms, distinct, these being Mr. McMillan and Mr. Agate.
The prizes were awarded as their names are given. Mrs. Walter Mole,
High Street, Hemel Hempsted, was first for a stand of Chrysanthemums
for table decoration ; Mr. W. Smith, Romford, second ; and Mr.

D. B. Crane third. A silver medal was also awarded the last-named
exhibitor for twelve bunches of Chrysanthemums.

Dahlias formed the bulk of the exhibits. There were two competitors
in the class for twenty-four bunches of single Dahlias, these being
Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Crawley, and Mr. F. W. Seale, Sevenoaks. Mr. G.
Humphries won the first prize for twelve bunches of single Dahlias,
Mr. E. F. Such being second. Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co., Salisbury,
secured the first prize for twelve bunches of Cactus Dahlias, showing fine
blooms. Messrs. J. Burrell & Co., Cambridge, followed closely with a
stand of fresh flowers, the third prize going to Messrs. Cheal & Sons.

Pompon Dahlias were very good in all classes. For twenty-four
bunches Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons were placed first for a splendid stand of
flowers. The most conspicuous in this collection were Marion, Cecil,
Whisper, Eva, Sunshine, Admiration, and Ariel. Mr. C. Turner, Royal
Nurseries, Slough, was a close second with very fine flowers, the third
prize going to Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co. Messrs. J. Burrell & Co.
had the best stand of twelve bunches, Mr. G. Humphries following. In
the amateurs’ and gardener’s classes Mr. J. J. West, gardener to W. Keith,
Esq., Brentwood, was first with six bunches of Pompon Dahlias, the
second prize going to Mr. Richard Burgin, Eynesbury, St. Neots. The
last-named exhibitor had the best six bunches of singles in this section,
Mr. E. Mawley, Rosebank, Berkhamstead, following ; the third prize
going to W. Mist, Esq., Ightham, Sevenoaks. Mr. West was first with
six bunches of Cactus Dahlias in this division, Mr. Mawley being second,
and Mr. William Hopkins, New Passage, Bristol, third.

The Show and Fancy Dahlias were remarkably fine and even. For
sixty blooms of not less than thirty varieties Mr. C. Turner was
placed first with an excellent stand. Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co.
followed closely, showing splendid flowers, the third prize going to Mr.
J. Walker, Thame. There were five competitors in this class. Messrs.
Keynes, Williams & Co. were, however, first for thirty-six blooms,
distinct, amongst which William Powell, Pelican, James Cocker, T. W.
Girdlestone, Rebecca, and William Rawlings were conspicuous. There
were two blooms of Arthur Ocock, and labelled thus, in this collection,
but this matter appears to have been overlooked by the Judges. Mr. J.
Walker, Thame, was second, the third prize going to Mr. C. Turner.

Messrs. Saltmarsh & Son, Chelmsford, secured the first prize for
twenty-four Dahlias, Messrs. Humphries and Rawlings following. Mr.
West was placed first with twenty-four blooms in the gardeners’ and
amateurs’ division, Messrs. A. Ocock and Burgin following in order of
their names. Mr. Ocock was first with eighteen blooms, the second
prize going to Mr. West, and the third to Mr. W. Mist. Mr. Thomas
Vagg, gardener to J. Theobald, Esq., M.P,, Bedfords, Havering, near
Romford, was first with twelve blooms, distinct ; Messrs. J. Gurney
Fowler, South Woodford, and W. Hopkins being second and third.
Messrs. Gurney Fowler, T. Vagg, and W. Hopkins secured the prizes
for six blooms.

Messrs. J. Burrell & Co., Howe House Nurseries, Cambridge, were
the only exhibitors of a collection ot Gladioli, but for which the first
prize was awarded. The spikes were, on the whole, very fine. Mr.
C. J. Waite, gardener to Col. the Hon. W. P. Talbot, Glenhurst, Esher ;
and Mr. C. Osman, South Metropolitan District Schools, Sutton, Surrey,

secured the special prizes offered by Messrs. Sutton & Sons for a collec¬
tion of vegetables.

Miscellaneous exhibits were not so numerous as we have seen them
at the Aquarium. Messrs. J. Laing & Son had a large collection of
hardy flowers, for which a silver medal was awarded. The same firm
also sent a very fine collection of Apples and Pears, comprising about
ten dishes (silver medal). Mr. T. S. Ware, Hale Farm Nurseries,
Tottenham, staged a splendid collection of Dahlias of various kinds,
arranged in a most effective manner. A silver-gilt medal was awarded.
Mr. W. Piercy, West Road, Forest Hill, S.E., sent some early flowering
Chrysanthemums. Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co. staged Show and
Fancy Dahlias, as also did Messrs. Saltmarsh & Son. Mr. J. B. Payne,
gardener to the Lord Bishop of Bath and Wells, The Palace, M ells,
Somerset, was awarded a silver medal for a dish of remarkably fine and
well coloured Peasgood’s Nonesuch Apples, the heaviest of which weighed
22 ozs. Mr. A. Rawlings, Romford, Essex, had a number of Dahlias,
and a silver medal was awarded. Messrs. Perkins & Sons, S. Mortimer,
T. S. Ware, and other growers sent some new Dahlias to be inspected
by the Floral Committee ; but when our reporter left no certificates had
been awarded. _ .

FRUIT FORCING.

Peacbes and ITectarlnes. — Earliest Forced Trees. — These are
assumed to consist of very early varieties which were started from
December 1st to the new year. The trees have now shed their leaves,
and, if infested with red spider or brown scale, they may be syringed
with water at a temperature of 140°. It must not, however, be used
injudiciously ; if too hot it will injure the young wood and buds, and if
lower in temperature it is innocuous as regards scale and red spider
about to hybernate. The trees should be loosened from the trellis and
tied in bundles for facilitating cleansing operations, then wash the
woodwork with soap and a brush, also the ironwork, reaching every angle
and crevice. Limewash the walls, and if required paint the wood and
ironwork. Pruning will consist of thinning the shoots where crowded
or too weak for carrying fine fruits, no shortening being necessary,
except for shoots unduly long or for the production of growths for
extension. The trees may be washed with a softsoap solution, 3 ozs. to
a gallon of water, or dressed with an approved insecticide, being careful
not to dislocate the buds. Tie the trees to the trellis loosely, leaving
gufiicient room for the swelling of the branches and shoots ;
remove the loose surface soil down to the roots, and supply a
top-dressing of rather strong turfy loam with a fourth of well decayed
manure admixed, and afterwards sprinkle a handful (about 4 ozs.)
over a square yard of the following mixture : bonemeal three parts, and
kainit one part, leaving it there. Avoid heavy surface dressings, they
only exclude air and render mulchings of little value by burying the
roots too deeply. If the lights have been removed they need not be
replaced until the weather become colder and the borders have been
thoroughly moistened by the autumnal rains.

Second Early-forced House. — The trees are shedding the leaves, but
there must not be any attempt at their forcible remoyal. When the
leaves have fallen treat the house and trees the same in every respect as
detailed in the preceding paragraph.

Succession Houses. — Any trees that have a tendency to over¬
luxuriance should, as soon as the wood gets suflSciently matured, have
a trench taken out about one-third the distance from the stem the trees
cover in extent of trellis and quite down to the drainage, so as to
detach all roots, and this may be left open for a fortnight and then
be filled in firmly ; or when the leaves give indications of falling the
soil may be removed down to the roots with a fork and picked from
amongst them, laying in the roots in fresh compost, and making quite
firm. Good loam, rather stiff, with about a sixth of old mortar rubbish,
form a suitable compost. A watering being given the roots will soon
work freely in the fresh material, and the fruits invariably set and
stone well afterwards. The above plan is more especially necessary
with young trees, the taking out of the trench being very effectual in
assisting them to ripen the wood thoroughly. Lifting and root-pruning
generally should be deferred until the leaves give indication of falling,
for if practised too early there is danger of causing the sudden collapse
of the foliage and the shrivelling of the wood.

Late Houses. — The bright weather has greatly assisted late Peaches
and Nectarines, which are not only much earlier in ripening than usual,
but something wonderful in size and beauty, and where proper supplies
of water and nutriment have been provided during growth the fruits
are singularly juicy and high flavoured. Gladstone is unquestionably
one of the finest late Peaches, and though not high coloured has a
rather firm flesh and travels well. Late Peaches will, no doubt, be
scarce this year through their ripening being accelerated by the hot
summer, and the wood is more advanced in ripening than in ordinary
reasons. A free circulation of air and the necessary supplies of water
are necessary, but a rather drier condition at the roots is desiia'^le when
the fruit is ripening. Keep the growths thin, stop any growing shoots
to about 15 inches and all laterals closely to one joint as growth is male.

September 7, 183?, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

231

Pines. — Young Pine plants always present a luxuriant appearance at
this season under proper treatment, this arising from the beneficial
effects of natural causes so important in cultivation. Those influences
being now on the wane, greater care will be necessary in the manage¬
ment to prevent the growth becoming soft, and measures should be
taken to consolidate it by a drier atmosphere, and, if necessary, artificial
heat. Syringing will only be needed occasionally, and it should be done
early in the afternoon of bright days. Water must only be given when
absolutely necessary, then afford a plentiful supply of weak liquid
manure in a tepid state. The bottom heat should be kept steady at 85°,
or between 80° and 90°. Particular attention must be paid to the
ventilation, which is very important at this period of the year. Plants
in a luxuriant condition should have air at 80°, above which ventilate
liberally, especially on warm sunny days, and close the house for the
day at 80°. The night temperature ought to be maintained at 65°,
allowing 70° to 75° by day artificially.

Fruiting plants must not further be detained in structures indis¬
criminately, but should be brought together in a house suitable for
finishing the fruit well. Plants that are intended for starting into fruit
early in the year should be selected from those that were started last
spring, and be arranged, not later than the end of this month, where
they can rest for six weeks. Those on which the fruit is swelling must
be encouraged with a liberal amount of heat and moisture, keeping the
night temperature from 70° to 75°, and that in the daytime from 80° to
90°, closing the house at 85° with sun heat.

THE KITCEEEN GARDEN.

Kidney Beans. — Frosts have already injured Runner Beans growing
in rather low positions, and if this important crop comes to grief soon
then the late Kidney Beans will be aril the more appreciated. Water
has been needed by the latter lately, and a light moulding up helps to
keep the plants upright and steady. In many cases it would pay well
to board round the breadth of plants and to cover with either spare pit
lights or with mats during cold nights. More Beans should also be sown
in 9-inch pots, these being filled with rich loamy soil. Place nine seeds
in each pot, and put the latter either in a cold pit or in the open for a
time, transferring to shelves in forcing houses before cold weather sets
in. Sion House is still one of the best for pot culture, but Ne Plus
Ultra and Canadian Wonder are also suitable.

Cabbage. — Plants obtained by sowing seed about the middle of
July are plentiful and strong, and unless thinned out will soon spoil
each other in the seed beds. They may not be much too early, and the
first favourable opportunity should be taken to plant out a good breath.
The best sites for spring Cabbage are quarters newly cleared of spring-
sown Onions. When the latter are harvested, remove the rubbish and
weeds and draw drills 20 inches asunder for the stronger growing
varieties of Cabbage, from 15 inches to 18 inches apart being ample
for the less vigorous kinds. Water the seed beds and drills a short time
prior to planting if necessary. The plants will then draw readily, and
may be quickly planted with a dibber. Make the soil firm about the
roots, and give a watering. If the ground is ready for the plants prick
them out 4 inches asunder each way, and when they touch each other
transplant with a trowel to their winter quarters. Club-root, or ambury,
is very troublesome in some gardens, and if the plants when drawn are
found to have a swelling on the root growths, cut it cleanly off, and then
dip in a puddle of clayey soil, soot, lime and water, so as to well coat
the root.

Cauliflowers. — Plants from seed sown on a warm border about the
middle of August are likely to attain too large a size to winter readily.
Pricking them in beds where they can be eventually covered with frames
of some kind will check them ; but it will be a good plan to sow more
seed on shallow beds surmounted by a frame, the lights not being put on
much before cold frosty weather prevails. Seed may also be sown on a
warm border, the strongest of the plants thus obtained being eventually
placed singly in 3-inch pots and wintered in pits and frames. Early
Snowball, Early Dwarf Erfurt, Early London and Veitch’s Autumn
Giant are useful varieties.

Endive. — This succeeds best on warm, light, and not too poor
ground. Plants put out now should be located where they can be
protected with boards and mats during frosty weather, and should we
have a favourable autumn they may yet attain a good size. Leave some
plants rather thickly, or from 4 inches to 6 inches asunder each way in
the seed beds, and according as they progress self blanching will take place.

Bettuce. — Strong plants of Black-seeded Brown Cos are very
serviceable in the autumn. A few at a time should be tied up moderately
tightly, and the hearts will then blanch. Where there are breadths of
nearly full grown Lettuce plants of any variety, make some provision
for protecting them when frosts prevail. Quite young plants are very
much hardier than those nearly full grown. Now is a good time to sow
seed of Black-seeded Brown Cos, Hick’s Hardy Cos, Hammersmith Green,
All the Year Round, and other well known hardy Lettuces on a border
where the plants can remain all the winter.

Parsley. — A scarcity of Parsley proves a source of much worry to
a gardener, and every precaution should be taken to guard against
failures. The commoner or least curled strains are the hardiest, but
these have been largely superseded by more delicate though superior
kinds. Strong plants can be rendered hardier and better by being
cut over at once, and the crop of young leaves that follow will prove
serviceable. Any plants that have not been raised long enough to
develop great heads may well be left alone. Before frosts cripple the
plants enough should be lifted and either replanted in a frame or pit in
good soil, or else in deep boxes or pots filled with good loamy soil.

Select strong plants, pull off the strong outer leaves, and replant some¬
what thickly. For a time longer they may be kept in the open, or if in
pits or frames uncovered, as it is only during the most severe weather
that protection is needed. Branches of fruit trees sometimes afford
sufficient protection to save the Parsley underneath when all the rest
has been killed. It is advisable, therefore, to form beds or a few circles
under some of the moderately low trees by the side of garden walks.

HE BEE-KEEPER.

t , , . , . \-ZT-.

■ rri . I . rrT« i . t « i ■ i "t « i ■» i » rvn

M

APIARIAN NOTES.

Notes from the Moors.

We are now enjoying beautiful weather, and although most of
the Heather is past, there is still much for the bees to add a little
more weight to their already abundant store. Two months have
elapsed since the bees were brought here, an enormous amount of
Heather and Thyme being in bloom ; but for the first month the
weather was so stormy and of a wintry character that the hives
declined in weight, the bees in a great measure getting no more
honey than was sufficient to carry on breeding. From the time
they were set down until September 4th scarcely a day passed
without one or more swarms issuing, and queens are still piping
yet. I have proven much, but learned little, although matters
are widely different from what is generally taught. These, with
other things connected with bees, including Punics, I shall
refer to at an early date, which will be both instructive and
interesting to bee-keepers. I am anxious to get home with the
bees, but the great heat in the hives, and honey being still carried
in in considerable quantity, preclude the possibility of doing so for
some time. The present is the longest Heather season on record.

Bee-keepers will be looking to their own interest if they during
this month make sure that queens are all youthful and fertile.
Remove all superfluous drone comb, substitute full sheets of
foundation, and feed with sugar till the hive is filled with worker
comb. Bees winter better on sugar than honey, so bee-keepers
have the option of securing more honey and healthier hives.

Pollen — Bees Flying.

I have been much interested at seeing the bees break the rule
of gathering pollen from one sort of flower or grass only, I have
witnessed them frequently work alternately on different species of
both flowers and Grasses.

Some years since I gave my observations and opinion upon this
subject to the effect that bees were guided to their hive by possess¬
ing a knowledge of the points of the compass, and not that of any
land or other mark. I have for some time past been giving the
subject more thought and attention, and my opinion is that
magnetic influence is the principal guide of the bee, both outside
and inside the hive, and that the eyes are of most use to the insect
in her flights in the field, and that their antennae regulate every
movement.

The Age of the Bee.

We have had this subject so often under consideration that it
is almost useless to say a word more upon it to refute the erroneous
impression that bees live about six weeks only, were it not to point
out to bee-keepers that these strong colonies are the result of
having two queens’ progeny living at one time, not by art, but by
a natural act of the bees changing their queens without swarming
about midsummer. The bees are still further preserved by being
kept much within doors through stress of weather, and being well
found in stores the season throughout, being exactly in a similar
condition to that which we have so long advised to be done by
careful manipulations, and introducing young fertile queens at the
proper time. — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

P. Barr & Son, King Street, Covent Garden, London. — Daffodils,
Hyacinths, and other Bulbs.

F. Besuard, a Paris, 28, Rue Geoffroy L’Asnier. — Catalogue of
Sjyraying Apparatus, and Garden Appliances.

R. & G. Cuthbert, Southgate, N. — Bulbous Flowering Roots.

L. Delaville, 2, Quai de la Megisserie, 2, Paris. — Bulbs, Plants, t^'c.

E. P, Dixon & Sons, The Yorkshire Seed Establishment, Hull.—
Bulb Catalogue,

W. J. Godfrey, Exmouth, Devon. — Spring Flowers.

Harrison & Son, Leicester, Flowering Bulbs and Roots.

W. E. Martin, Hull. — Dutch, French, and Cape Bulbs.

Benjamin Soddy, 243, Walworth Road, S.E. — Winter and Spring
Flowering Bulbs.

E. Webb & Sons, Wordsley, Stourbridge.— Catalogue.

292

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 7, 1893.

correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor ” or to “ The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

violas (6*. B.'). — We are glad to hear that Violas prove so satis¬
factory in your garden in a large manufacturing town. With deep rich
soil and early planting they succeed almost anywhere where flowers can
grow. Your letter shall be forwarded to Mr. William Dean.

Exhibiting Celery (Cymru'). — You ask if in a collection of
vegetables, no “ roots ” admissible, Celery would be disqualified. We
see so many curiosities in schedules and judging that we cannot foresee
what strange things may happen, but we know that Celery is not a root
crop, and would consequently be ineligible for the class described.

Stocks for Fruit Trees (iZ. Smith) — The sentence you quote
appears incomplete. We understand by it that maiden Apple trees may
be had and grown on both the Paradise or Crab stocks, Cherries on the
Mahaleb. Paradise stocks, as you probably know, have a tendency to
subdue vigour in Apple trees, and the Mahaleb is supposed to have a
similar effect on Cherries. The Crab is promotive of free growth in
Apples.

Spraying IVIachlne (J. C. C.). — The knapsack pump Eclair with
a Yermorel spraying nozzle is an excellent apparatus for distributing
the copper solution and Paris green mixture, and is sold by Messrs.
Charles Clark & Co., Windsor Chambers, Great St. Helen’s, London,
E.C., who have advertised the Eclair in our columns. Spraying fruit
trees for the prevention and destruction of fungal and insect pests is
far less practised in this country than on the continent and other
countries, and several crops suffer in consequence.

Transplanting Dlcksonla antarctlca (J. C. C.). — The plant may
safely be moved, just as growth starts in the spring being a good time ;
but with care they may be successfully transplanted now. Plants in
rockwork usually move with a compact mass of roots. With these
placed in firm soil, kept duly moist, and the stem syringed, the plant
will suffer little from the removal. We have found such plants improve
after removal because of new roots having fresh compost to ramify
in. We have also known plants cut off at any desired point above
ground, and the stems well and firmly inserted in good soil grow freely
and satisfactorily.

Sweet Peas and Asters (A. B.). — It is only in the deepest and
best soil coupled with early sowing that Sweet Peas have proved even
moderately good this year in the South of England. Asters also need rich
moist soil for full development, and, considering the season, the blooms
you send are quite as good as could be expected from plants in “ cloddy
soil.” Under more favourable conditions you may expect to have
blooms quite up to the market average, but you should endeavour to
have them above the average, in fact as good as it is possible to produce
them. There is always a demand for the “ best ” of everything when
relatively inferior produce is a drug in the market. Your soil must be
brought into a good state of mechanical division, then when it is also
enriched it will grow Sweet Peas and Asters well.

Chrysanthemum Eeaves Infested with IVllldew and Thrlps

{Amateur). — The leaves not only have been but are infested with
mildew, the brownish spots being due to this cause where the fungus has
been arrested in growth but not destroyed by the bisulphide of calcium
solution. This has probably been too weak, or the leaves may have
been damp when it was applied, otherwise it is a specific for the oidium
stage of the fungus. It would be desirable to repeat the application for
the destruction of the mildew. The only insects we can find on the
leaves are the larvm of thrips, and they are not red but yellow. The
perfect insects are not present. They have, however, been on the leaves,
for there are several pupa cases, from which they have emerged at no
distant date. There is no trace of eggs, so that the present generation
being destroyed the plants may remain clean. Dusting with tobacco
powder is a good means of keeping Chrysanthemums free from insects
and mildew, the tobacco being fatal to aphides and thrips, and the
sulphur it contains to mildew and red spider. Anti-blight powder has
also been found to keep the plants clean. It would be better known
and more largely used if more generally advertised.

Roses and lilllums {F. J.). — The Rose leaves are infested with
the black fungus. Burn all the leaves and prunings, and apply a
fungicide early in the season. Roses in poor dry soil, or exhausted
with age, are more liable to fungoid infestation than are healthy and
well-grown plants or bushes. Liliums are usually repotted annually,
after the stems have died down in the autumn, removing the old soil
and dead fibres, but not the white fleshy roots, the pots being plunged
over the rims in cocoa-nut fibre refuse. Many are plunged in cold
frames, but more in the open on a thick bed of ashes, provision of some
kind being afforded for throwing off heavy rains. We have seen fine
Liliums, however, grown without repotting, but simply removing some
of the old and adding fresh soil, following with rich top-dressings and
liquid support in summer. Under this treatment the drainage must
be in an efficient state. Why not try both methods, and thus gain
information of the most practical kind ? but we should repot the
majority of the Liliums.

Apple Benonl (Z). E.). — Though you have not seen any mention
of this Apple in our columns previous to last week, it has been mentioned
all the same and figured. Perhaps you are a comparatively new reader.
We reproduce the illustration. The fruit was grown at Chiswick, and
the following remarks accompanied the figure : — “ The crop was one of
the best, and the tree is one of the healthiest growers in the collection,
being upright in habit, and hence well suited to borders in gardens.
Mr. Barron regarded it as one of the best varieties for following the
summer Apples such as Mr. Gladstone, Red Astrachan, and others, and
preceding the regular autumn Apples. The quality of the Chiswick

FIG. 33. — APPLE BENONI.

fruit was good, pleasant, and refreshing, but we have tasted fruits
richer from Sawbridgeworth, while in Kent we have heard the variety
is not regarded as superior. Soils and circumstances have their influence
on fruits ; but, generally speaking, Benoni may be regarded as a
September Apple well worth growing.” It is an American variety, and
was introduced to this country by Mr. T. Francis Rivers.

Amateurs’ Classes {Bicliard Powell). — According to this de¬
finition of an amateur — “ A person who cultivates a garden for pleasure
and not for gain ” — neither of the men to whom you allude was
eligible to compete in the amateur classes, as both of them worked for
wages. There is another broad distinction in the schedules of some very
large shows — namely, that all persons who are not nurserymen are re¬
garded as amateurs, but this is rarely if ever the case in connection with
local exhibitions. Why one of the men whose occupation you describe
was admitted and the other excluded is a question beyond the power of
ordinary intelligence to explain, and we can only refer you to the
extraordinary intellects in your locality.

Timber IVIeasurement (IT.). — Procure “ Hoppus’s Measurer,”
F. Warne & Co., Bedford Street, Covent Garden, London, it costs two or
three shillings, and you would probably find “ Nesbit’s Practical Mensura¬
tion,” 3s. 6d., “Key,” 5s., useful; it is published by Longmans, 39,
Paternoster Row, London, E.C. You ought by aid of the Hoppus to
readily master the measurement of timber. In measuring for sale do it
yourself ; we have more than once detected buyers of timber making
mistakes in the girth. The value of timber is very much a local matter,
and you will do well first of all to thoroughly master its measurement
and then attend a few timber sales to acquire some knowledge of its
value. Coppice or underwood also vary according to locality. We
have sold Ash and Chestnut in Kent for hop poles for £40 an acre, but
the price has fallen of late years. We have also in Sussex sold Oak
and Hazel copse wood for £3 and £4 an acre. So you see the range is
a wide one. This is a matter requiring full knowledge of local require¬
ments, of markets, and of the purposes for which different sorts of
wood may be used. No book would give you such information.

September 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

233

Orape and Rhubarb "Wine (J. M. L.'). — A very good wine can be
made from Grapes which do not attain their perfect maturity in the
open air in this country. The fruit should be allowed to hang as long as
it is likely to derive any benefit in the way of ripening, and when it is
ready the bunches are to be gathered and laid carefully, so as not to
bruise the berries. The berries are to be picked separately from the
stalks, discarding all that are in any way decayed. Measure the fruit
as it is put into the fermenting tub, and to every 15 gallons of fruit add
1 gallon of soft w'ater. Stir and bruise the fruit, and after standing for
twenty-four hours, strain and press the fruit through a hair cloth or
coarse canvas bag, subjected to pressure. Now test the liquor by the
Siccharometer and bring up the gravity to 120 by the addition of sugar,
every pound of sugar raising the density 35 or 36. Let the whole be
W’ell stirred, and add 1 oz. of argol to every 3 gallons of must. Stir the
must every day, morning and evening, and when the density falls to 80,
and the fermentation becomes languid, the cask is to be bunged up, and
the wine bottled off in the month of March following. Ehubarb wine is
very palatable, but as it contains oxalate of lime it is injurious to some
constitutions, and should not be regularly used without consulting a
medical man. To make 10 gallons of wine take 60 lbs. of the stalks of
the leaves of Ehubarb unpeeled. Cut these in pieces and bruise them
with a mallet, or pass them between rollers such as a wringing machine
without cutting them. Put them in a fermenting tub, and pour
5 gallons of cold water over them, leaving them to macerate for twelve
or sixteen hours; then press the whole, returning the juice which has
been expressed to the fermenting tub. Add 30 lbs. of sugar, or as much
as is necessary to raise the gravity to 110 if a sparkling wine is desirable,
and to 120 if a still wine ; also 4 ozs. of powdered argol, and enough
water to make the quantity of liquor up to 10^ gallons. Cover the tub
with a blanket and place it in a temperature of 55° or 60°, Siir it
occasionally for three days to encourage the fermentation, and then
strain it through flannel into a cask, which must be kept full to the
bung till fermentation ceases. As soon as the gravity of the wine is
reduced to 40 the cask may be removed to the cellar and the bung fixed
firmly in. In a month or six weeks the wine may be fined, and drawn
off into a clean cask or returned to the same one after being properly
cleaned. The cask may now be finally stopped close and left till the
time of bottling. If a sparkling wine is desired it must be bottled in
March following with the corks safely wired ; but if a still wine it
should remain in the cask at least a twelvemonth before being bottled.
In the absence of a saccharometer you must be guided by your judgment
in the procedure, but an instrument can be had for about 33. 6d. from
Messrs, Cetti, Opticians, Brook Street, Holborn, London.

Names of Fruits. — Notice. — Special attention is directed to the
following decision, the object of which is to discourage the growth of
inferior and promote the culture of superior varieties. In consequence
of the large nuinher of worthless Apples and Pears sent to this office to
he named., it has heen decided to name only specimens and varieties of
approved merit, and to reject the inferior, which are not worth sending
or growing. The names and addresses of senders of fruit to be named
must in all cases be enclosed with the specimens, whether letters
referring to the fruit are sent by post or not. The names are not
necessarily required for publication, initials sufficing for that. Only six
specimens can be named at once, and any beyond that number cannot
be preserved. {J. Smithj. — A, Brockworth Park. The others not ready
for naming. You should attach the number more securely, or wrap
each specimen in paper, with the number, not a letter, marked inside,
(i^. J. Gray). — 1, Gloria Mundi ; 2, King of the Pippins ; 3, Northern
Greening ; 4, Winter Greening ; 5, Sturmer Pippin ; 6, Blenheim
Pippin. (^Richard C. Long). — 1, Gloria Mundi ; 3, Striped Beefing ;
6, Greenup’s Pippin. The others too imperfect for naming. {W. Strug-
nell). — 1, Mar^chal de Cour ; 2, Althorp Crasanne? 3, Easter Beurrb ;
4, Beurrh Sterckmanns ; 5, Beurre Capiaumont ; 6, Beurr6 A. Lucas.
Graft the trees of all those of which you have sent a list ; they are
worthless. Pears cannot be named with certainty when they are quite
green and hard. {A. II. L.). — 1, Louise Bonne of Jersey ; 2, Marhchal
de Cour ; 3, Gravenstein ; 4, Duchesse d’Angouleme ; 5, Margil ; 6,
New Northern Greening. Pinning numbers in the eyes of fruits is a
very bad practice. (P. Morris). — 1, Emperor Alexander ; 2, quite
decayed ; 3, Yorkshire Greening. (P. Jellico). — Lord Suffield ; very
fine, (IK. Spencer Payne). — 69, Keswick Codlin ; 70, Baldwin.
(^Janies Smartf — 1, Court Pendu Plat ; 4, Small’s Admirable ; 6 and 9,
Tower of Glamis ; 7, Blenheim Pippin ; 14, Coe’s Golden Drop,
(Ji S. B.). — 1, Nouvelle Fulvie ; 2, Allen’s Everlasting ; 3, Gloria
Mundi ; 5, Josephine de Malines ; 6, Tower of Glamis. Most of the
numbers were displaced ; never use pins for affixing the numbers.

Names of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
(IF. M. B.). — Cratsegus coccineus. (IF. G. S.). — Eanunculus parvi-
florus, a British plant. We have pleasure in naming plants for regular
subscribers. QCymru). — 1, Asplenium flaccidum; 2, Thunbergia alata;
3, Lonicera brachypodaaurea reticulata; 4, Berberis vulgaris; 5, Begonia
Evansiana ; 6, Summer Savory (Satureia hortensis). (^Somerset). — Pro¬
bably a Solanum, but specimen had only one withered flower ; 2, a
Pentstemon, but flowers too withered to identify species.

COVENT GAEDEN MAEKBT. — September 6th.

Market still heavily supplied ; prices virtu.ally unaltered.

FRUIT.

s.

d.

g.

d.

d.

s.

d.

Apples, per bushel . . . .

1

0 to 6

0

Lemons, case .

10

Oto 15

0

„ Tasmanian, per case

0

0

0

0

Oranges, per 100 .. ..

0

0

0

0

„ Nova Scotia, brl.

0

0

0

0

Peaches, per doz .

1

6

8

0

Cherries, half sieve . . . .

0

0

0

0

Plums, per half sieve

1

G

2

6

Cobs .

28

0

30

0

St. Michael Pines, each . .

2

0

5

0

Gooseberries, half sieve . .

0

0

0

0

Strawberries, per ib .

0

0

0

0

Grapes per lb .

0

6

1

6

VEGETABLES.

s.

d.

S.

d.

S.

d.

S.

d.

Asparagus, per bundle

0

0 to 0

0

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2 to

0

0

Beans, Kidney, per lb. . .

0

3

0

4

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

6

Beet, Red, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

2

0

3

0

Carrots, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . . . .

2

0

3

0

Potatoes, per owt .

2

0

4

G

Celery, bundle .

1

0

1

3

Salsafy, bundle .

1

0

1

8

Ooleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Scorzonera, bundle . . . ,

1

6

0

0

Cucumbers, dozen . . . .

1

6

3

0

Seakale, per basket . . . .

0

0

0

0

Endive, dozen . . . , . .

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per Ib .

0

3

0

0

Herbs, bunch .

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel . . . . . .

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch .

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

4

Lettuce, dozen .

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Mushrooms, punnet . . . .

0

9

1

0

AVERAGE

WHOLESALE

PRICES.— CUT FLOWERS.

Orchid Blooms in variety.

s.

d.

S.

d

8.

d.

s.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms ..

2

0 to 4

0

Marguerites, 12 bunches . .

2

0 to 4

0

Asters (French), per bunch

0

9

1

3

Mignonette, 12 bunches . .

2

0

4

0

„ (English) doz. bches.

3

0

5

0

Myosotis, dozen bunches . ,

1

6

3

0

Bouvardias, bunch .. ..

0

6

1

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

0

12

6

Carnations, 12 blooms

0

6

2

0

Pelargoniums, 12 bimches

6

0

9

0

Carnations, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

Chrysanthemums, dozen

bunches .

3

0

6

0

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Primula (double), dozen

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis.

1

0

2

0

sprays .

0

6

1

0

Cornflower, dozen bunches.

1

0

2

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Eucharis, dozen .

1

6

4

0

Roses (indoor), dozen

0

6

1

6

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

„ Red, doz. bunches

4

0

6

0

Lilium lancifolium, dozen

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

0

blooms .

1

0

3

0

„ YeUow, dozen . . . .

o

0

4

0

Maidenhair Pern, dozen

Tuberoses, 12 blooms. . . .

0

4

0

6

bunches .

4

0

6

0

PLANTS

IN POTS,

B.

d.

S,

d.

S.

d.

S.

d.

Arbor Vit® (golden) dozen

6

0 to 12

0

Ficus elastica, each .. ..

1

0 to 7

6

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Foliage plants, var., each. .

2

0

10

0

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

Fuchsia, per dozen . . . .

4

0

6

0

Asters, dozen pots , . , .

3

0

6

0

Hydrangea, per dozen . .

12

0

24

0

Balsams, per dozen ..

3

0

6

0

Ivy Geraniums .

4

0

6

0

Campanula, per dozen

9

0

18

c

Lilium lancifolium per doz.

12

0

18

0

Ohrysantbemums, per doz.

4

0

9

0

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen 12

0

24

0

„ large plants, each

1

0

2

0

Lycopodiums, per dozen • ♦

3

0

4

0

Dracffina terminalis, per

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . .

6

0

12

0

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Mignonette, per doz .

4

0

6

0

Drac®na viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Buonvm us, var., dozen ..

6

0

18

0

Palms, in var., each . . . .

1

0

15

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24

0

„ (specimens) . . . .

21

0

63

0

Perns, in variety, dozen . .

4

0

18

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

2

0

4

0

Ferns (small) pf r hundred

4

0

6

0

Rhodanthe, per dozen

4

0

6

0

WEEDS.

“ No one knows the expense of cleaning a foul farm till they
have tried it,” said a sound practical farmer once, when discussing
ways and means for cleaning a dirty farm. Many such farms
will be falling in hand this Michaelmas. Entirely are we in
sympathy with the landlord, agent, or home farmer who has
to take and make the best of them, as has fallen to our lot
to do many a time. How any man, but especially a tenant
farmer, can suffer land for which he pays rent to become foul
with weeds is a matter beyond our comprehension. It is a
shameful thing for which there can be no excuse ; suicidal on
the part of the tenant, harmful to the landlord, and not unfre-
quently a nuisance to an entire parish, as, for example, in the
case of the tenant of a hill farm, whose landlord held him to
the conditions of a lease so far as rent was concerned, while the
price of corn became ruinously low. The rent was high, the
tenant was angry, he foolishly let his land get so foul with
Thistles that in the last year of his tenancy they ran to seed
among the spring corn in such quantities that in a high wind
the seed was blown far and wide over the neighbouring farms.

That farm came into our hands at Michaelmas so dirty
that much of it had to be fallowed in the following year, and
we were thought fortunate in being able to re-let it after a year

284

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 7, 1893.

of persistent cleaning. Cropping in anything like the regular
fashion was out of the question. Ploughs, harrows, horse hoes,
cultiva^^ors, hand forks, and hand-picking were all brought into
action. Couch fires were set going whenever it was possible,
much rubbish was carted to heaps and so burnt ; by the autumn
we had some fair crops of Mangolds and Swedes, and the whole
of the land was cleaner and more thoroughly tilled than it had
been for many a day. No very close computation of the actual
cost was ever gone into. It had to be done, we had several
other farms in hand, and were able to spare horses and
implements from them occasionally to get through what was
nothing else than estate improvement.

It is by no means intended to infer that work thus done
was at all thorough and complete. That was impossible.
Thistles would be coming from seed for some time subsequently.
Worse than Thistles was the Charlock, of which a fresh crop
follows every ploughing for years after land is once infested
with it. Its seed appears to retain vitality for an indefinite
period, in all kinds of soil. A meadow which bad been laid down
to grass for some ten or twelve years was drained last winter ;
this summer hundreds of plants of Charlock sprung up over the
drains. In dealing with this pest the only safe plan is to destroy
every young plant of it upon its first appearance on a farm ;
once suffer it to mature a crop of seed and its eradication is
practically impossible. Much may be done to reduce it by
stirring the land repeatedly in autumn after harvest, just
waiting long enough each time for the plants to appear, and
then shallow ploughing or even horse-hoeing at once. The
present autumn is most favourable for this and every form of
cleaning ; not a chance for autumn tillage should be lost, every¬
thing else that can be kept in abeyance for it should be. On
light land much of the Charlock plant may be destroyed among
spring corn by a light harrowing after the corn is well up.
This is a critical operation, requiring care and judgment, or
the corn suffers. Best of all, for a field foul with Charlock, is
to bring it under a six-years course, so that five years out of
the six it is in temporary pasture. By using Grasses of vigorous
growth, with Clovers in well balanced proportion, and by
keeping soil fertility fully sustained, the seeds are very produc¬
tive, and the disheartening and costly contest with the Charlock
is avoided. Here is the mixture which has been found to
answer so well in Essex for such pasture : —

Ibp.

Perennial Rye Grass . 13

Italian Eye Grass . 5

Cocksfoot . .5

Timothy . 3

Meadow Foxtail . 2

Red Clover (broad) . 3

Perennial Clover (broad) . 3

White Clover . 2

Alsike Clover . 2

Trefoil (or Lucerne) . 2

Total quantity per acre . 40

On the other hand, when pasture is very foul with Knap¬
weed, Ox-eye, Buttercup, and Yellow Rattle it may become
necessary to pare and burn the sod to get rid of the pests.
Under good management there is no reason why the land may
not then be broken up and relaid down to pasture with a co'n
crop. Cows will touch none of such weeds, but they may and
do eat unwholesome plants which do harm to the milk. Pro¬
fessor McConnell has recently, in the “ Agricultural Gazette,”
called attention to an instance of this at Ta*ny Hall, Epping,
where, in skilful hands, great difficulty has been found all the
summer in getting the butter to come. His explanation is so
clear and withal so important that we quote it : — “ The excessive
drought had rendered it necessary to give the cows access to
land which had always hitherto been mowed for hay, and it
was noticed that a plant similar to Parsley or Dwarf Hemlock
was growing in a portion of this. The cowman recalled to

mind that an old herbalist had told him that this plant would
prevent the butter from coming, and it was resolved to try the
effec's of shutting the animals out of the parts so affected.
The effect was almost immediate, as in a week or so the cream
had come back to its normal characteristics. The plant proved
on examination to be the Pepper Saxifrage (Silaus pratensis),
an umbellifer, and in some of the ‘ Floras ’ it is noted as
stopping the milk if eaten in a large quantity, and of tainting
it if a small quantity is consumed. But it is noticeable that
it is not mentioned in any dairy work known ta me, while the
harm that it d es may be enormous. In this case it affected
the milk of some seventeen cows all summer in such a way that
there was an immense loss of butter, which would not ‘come,’
and, therefore, was lost in the buttermilk. There was nothing
of the nature of a smell or taint, for the butter was first-class-
af er it was made; but the p’ant seemed to affect the cream
globules in such a way as to prevent them from uniting.”

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

Poultry require special attention just now in preparation for winter,
and next spring also. As the egg supply falls off, and moulting is likely
to commence, old hens must be got rid of. The term is appropriate, for
if sold they bring about a shilling apiece ; exceptionally good hens may
be worth twice or three times as much, but anything like a profit on
them is out of the question. The best purpose the home farmer can
turn them to is to send them to the stock-pot, beginning this as they
cease laying. A word of caution is necessary in this matter to the
person in charge of the poultry, that none but perfectly healthy hens
are so used. Twice in our experience has soup been spoiled by a taint
from unhealthy old hens, heedlessly sent to the kitchen with the foolish
notion that anything does for the stockpot. A good home farmer makes
a point of seeing that all farm produce sent to the kitchen is sound,
sweet, and wholesome. But he cannot always be on the spot, and cooks
will send at all hours for articles unordered at the proper time. So far
as is possible let the bulk of the household supply be sent in early in
the day, a second regular journey being made after the afternoon
milking. Send up the order-book with the morning delivery, and while
quietly striving to enforce systematic action, avoid friction. Remember
before all things to keep the promotion of your employer’s comfort and
convenience in view, and take especial care always to have a surplus
supply of everything — no light matter this, but entirely possible. It
implies no waste, because all surplus produce can be sold, dealers being
only too eager to purchase the excellent produce of a well-managed
home farm.

Select pullets from March, April, and May broods for supplying
winter eggs, as well as for eggs next spring and summer. Take care to
have enough to insure a full supply ; keep them apart from the chickens
kept for killing for table, so that no valuable birds are killed by mistake.
If other breeds or more young birds of any sort are to be purchased now
is an excellent time to procure them. There are always plenty offered
for sale in the advertisements in “ Poultry,” and we have reason for
entire satisfaction with chickens through that agency. Select also stock
birds of other poultry, especially geese and turkeys. As turkey poults
come in for table they are much in request, the best birds being killed
first, hence the importance of timely selection.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.

OXMDEN Square, London.

Lat.51° 32'40" N.: Loa?.0“8'0" W.: Altitude. HI feet.

Date.

9 A.M.

In the Day.

Bain,

1893.

August and
Septem ber.

1 Barometer

at 32'^, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

I;In,

Sun.

Oa

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday , .

27

30-144

60-4

54-8

W.

61-7

64 9

47-7

95-1

43-2

0-040

Monday . .

28

30-279

58-9

54-4

N.E.

60-6

71-0

47-8

115-9

43-7

_

Tuesday . .

29

30-386

60’ 1

53-2

K.E.

69-9

72-0

44-8

115-0

39-0

_

Wednesday

30

30-177

60-3

56-4

S.B.

60-9

76-6

57-1

119-8

52-1

Thursday . .

31

-.9-980

61-1

58-2

S.W.

61-7

73-7

55-0

117-7

51-2

0-195

Friday

1

30-044

58-2

57-1

E.

62-0

67-2

55-4

83-6

55-8

_

Saturday . .

2

30-112

63-3

58-4

W.

61-4

72-4

58-1

1.0-8

54 6

—

30-153

60-3

56-1

61-2

71-1

52-3

109-7

48*5

0-235

REMARKS.

27th.— Fine and bright up to 4 P.M., then rain ; fine after.

28th.— Dull early with gleams of sun during the morning ; bright 1.30 to 3 P.M., then
dull to 5 P.M. ; rest of the day fine.

29th. — Bright and sunny throughout ; fine night.

30th.— Overcast in morning ; sun at 10.30 to 2 ; then overcast, with some sun at times
during afternoon ; fine night.

31st. — Spots of rain and dark at 9 A.M. ; bright sun at 9.45 and till 5 P.M. ; then over¬
cast and spots of rain at 5.25 P.M. ; fine evening.

1st. — Rain early (2.30 A.M.), dull at 9 A.M., and throughout until 5.15 ; then sunny ;
fine night.

2nd. — Dull early ; bright sun at 9.45 ; fine and bright after ; fine night.

Another generally fine week ; temperature falling slightly, but still a trifle above the

average.— G. J. Symons.

September 14, 189S. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

235

AS we arrive at the autumn it is well to review the difficulties
experienced, the successes noted, and the failures, in some
instances so painfully apparent, among vegetable crops during the
phenomenal spring and summer of the present year. In doing this
we cannot fail to be impressed by many significant lessons which
must be fraught with useful suggestions for future elucidation.
The difficulty of maintaining a constant supply of vegetables was
perhaps never more keenly felt than during June and the early part
of July, and although since that time this trouble has not been
entirely absent (on account of the comparative failure of some
crops which are usually reliable ones), yet the greater variety of
Tegetables in season during late summer, together with a timely,
though only moderate fall of rain, and the refreshing effect of
heavy night dews, combined to bring about a vastly improved state
of affairs.

Vegetable Marrows have been a more abundant crop than I have
previously known them to be. From a very early date they have
been in evidence on all sides. I find that plants set in the ordinary
garden soil, with no other preparation than that of placing a few
spadefuls of rich manure underneath, have yielded far better than
others growing on raised beds of manure or leaves. This is doubt¬
less accounted for by the fact that much less difficulty is obtained
in keeping the former sufficiently moist at the roots during a season
of tropical weather, unless the ingenious practice of a Warwickshire
amateur gardener is resorted to — viz., that of watering by means of
a syphon, which this year has been constantly working on his
Marrow bed. Pen-y-byd is, I think, the best variety to grow for
table use, the quality being far superior to that of any other.

Peas have by no means been so good as usual. When mulchings
and heavy waterings were resorted to well filled pods resulted ; but
under the best cultural conditions the season was a short one on
account of th« arid atmosphere which prevailed for a long period.
I never remember seeing so few good dishes of Peas staged at
cottagers’ shows as during the present season. Sharpe’s Queen and
Stratagem have proved the most productive with me. Early in the
season I had several splendid rows of WTlliam Hurst, which is
an excellent variety to succeed American Wonder or Lightning.
The great advantage of sowing Peas in shallow trenches has
been clearly apparent, and wherever cultivators have to deal with
a light ground I strongly advocate the adoption of this practice,
because when the work is well done a greater depth of soil is
obtained than in deep trenches, as well as ample facilities for
watering.

Turning to Potatoes, a far more favourable condition of affairs
can be recorded. Early crops were somewhat undersized, especially
in the case of Ashleaf Kidney. Sharpe’s Victor was, however, very
early and good in every way, the season appearing to suit it exactly,
as during wet summers this variety is not superior in quality unless
left in the ground till the tubers are fully grown. Puritan and
Snowdrop afforded large clean tubers in succession to those first
named. Late Potatoes, when grown on deep, well cultivated soils
are furnishing grand crops. The tubers are large, clean, and of the
highest quality, there being a marked absence of blotches and other
disfigurements so frequently noticed when heavy crops are lifted.
It is really a most encouraging sign, as the crops are being lifted,
to note how easily they are separated from the dust-like soil, exhi-

No. 690.— VOL. XXVII., Third Series.

biting clean, firm skins without a trace of disease. Satisfaction,
Late Rose, Best of All, and Brinkworth’s Heavyweight are particu¬
larly good. The latter variety will, I think, to a great extent super¬
sede Magnum Bonum on account of its superior quality when
cooked.

Where Onions escaped the ravages of maggot during the spring
months the crops have been good, the bulbs having ripened splendidly.
From an exhibitor’s point of view perhaps we have seldom been
favoured with such a fine Onion season ; deep, rich soil, special
attention to watering, and abundance of sunshine being the three
principal conditions necessary for the production of gigantic bulbs.
For home use I know of none better than Veitch’s Main Crop and
Banbury Improved White Spanish. These two varieties have with
me been highly satisfactory, although our soil is by no means an
ideal one for the growth of this crop. It is only by deep digging,
manuring heavily, and giving frequent dressings of soot that good
results can be obtained.

The early and main crops of Carrots must be mentioned as
particularly satisfactory. Early Gem proved well worthy of the
high praise bestowed upon it. Early Nantes, which we grew to give
a succession of young roots, did not behave well, great loss being
experienced through a bad attack of grub, which I find is mcst
difficult to keep at bay when the Carrots are thinned as required for
use. The holes thus left where the roots are drawn afford a con¬
venient opportunity for the parent fly (Psila rosm) to deposit its
eggs. Where practicable it is, therefore, better to quite clear a
sufficient space at each pulling, even though by so doing a few small
roots have to be sacrificed. Too much praise can scarcely be given
to Matchless Scarlet. From a sowing made on land occupied by
Celery last year we have now a bed which brings out many flattering
remarks from visiting gardeners. A gritty, yet rich soil with a fine
deep tilth is evidently well adapted to the growth of Carrots. Beet¬
root on an adjoining quarter has also, notwithstanding the season,
made good progress, sound roots of the right size for table being
plentiful.

The production of really good Cauliflowers has been a matter
of great difficulty. Hundreds of plants which during ordinary
seasons might have been depended upon to give good heads, have
this year either bolted, gone blind, or provided the cultivator with
only puny heads. Early London was a great offender in this
lespect ; Walcheren and Extra Early Autumn Giant are, however,
now supplying good heads, and the older type of Autumn Giant
promises to be fairly good, but rain is at present much needed to
assist them. The demand for good Turnips has been a thorn in the
side of innumerable gardeners. It is only by watering a portion of
the crop regularly that we have been able at times to secure pre¬
sentable roots. Successional batches of Little Pixie Cabbage have
proved invaluable by planting them only a foot asunder, and
compact heads have been obtained from a limited space at a time
when it was by no means an easy matter to induce the coarser
growing kinds to heart. Thought and labour were, perhaps, never
in greater demand among British gardeners to enable them to
successfully cope with the difficulties of the situation than during
the past summer, and I believe thousands will join with me in
expressing the hope that their brains and physical energy will not
again be so severely taxed for many years to come.

Although the labour of summer has been great, the outlook for
the coming winter, as far as garden crops are concerned, is promis¬
ing. Good crops of roots are ready for storing under conditions
favourable to good keeping. Borecoles and Broccoli have made
firm growth, which is not likely to be easily injured by severe frosts,
should they come. We have had opportunities innumerable for
destroying each crop of weeds in a young state, and our gardens
ought now to be in a clean and sweetened condition, so that with
the timely rains of the autumn and frosts of the winter we may
look hopefully forward for brighter prospects if not lighter labours
in time to come. — H. D.

No. 2346.— VoL, LXXXIX., Old Series. .

23G

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 14, 1893.

AN EiNTIIUSTASTIC VETERAN.

All who know him, whether personally or only by report and
through his writings, must admit that he answers to the descrip¬
tion of my title, not as a mere fanciful dreamer seeing all things
through rose-coloured glasses, but as a downright hard worker
whose achievements justify his aims, and whose life work has been
productive of results by which the community at large has been
greatly benefited.

As a teacher of horticulture, Robert Fenn was one of that staff
of grand old gardeners who in the Cottage Gardener did such a
noble pioneer work for its advancement. It was over the charac¬
teristic signature of “Upwards and Onwards” that most of his
striking and original contributions appeared, and though since he
retired from actual practice he has not written so frequently, he
13 as active as ever, and his occasional notes, too, are as welcome as
ever to readers of the Journal of Horticulture. They may be brief,
but they are very much to the purpose ; so effective was that
last one on “Anti-blight Powder” that it brought to a climax
the long pending intention of a pilgrimage to Sulhampstead (as our
leader has it) by two other gardeners whose claims to be regarded
as veterans also are fairly admissible.

The morning after the publication of that article we were on
our way to Cottage Farm ; a hearty greeting had we from the
writer of it on our arrival at Theale Station. We were soon at
the cosy home of our host, giving due admiration on our way to
the transparent waters of unpolluted Thames in such striking
contrast to the pea-soup-like appearance of it that morning in
cockneydom ; then we enjoyed the pleasant country lane, with its
overhanging trees, and the fresh green herbage of the rich pastures
on each side of it. Soon were we among the cider casks and
seedling Potatoes discussing a point of practice at almost every
step, listening to anecdotes of bygone days, telling us of persistent
effort and of many a triumph over difficulties. The raising of
seedling Potatoes by the veteran appears now to be confined to the
crossing of^ species, a by no means unimportant matter in view of
the possibility of an infusion of greater power of disease resistance.
In the past it must have been a heavy matter, involving much
labour and almost incessant attention. That it was done, and
done well, we know ; precisely how has yet to be told. One thing
that is clear is that Mrs. Fenn has been no mere silent worshipper
of her clever husband ; she has worked with him, doing her part
and something more, for not only has she tested almost innumer¬
able seedlings, cooking, as she told us, as many as 300 of the sorts
on trial in a season, but she has evidently entered with her whole
heart into the work, watching the progress of each batch of
seedlings, and cheering her husband with the loving sympathy of a
true wife. As she came down the garden to us, while we were
among the Potatoes, we were listening to the story of how in
digging up a certain batch of seedlings one was found apparently
with nothing but stem and roots. The roots had been followed to
the depth of the digging-fork, “handle and all,” quite in the
contrary direction to the aspirations of “ Upwards and Onwards,”
who was about to give it up as a bad job, when, as he told us, with
the cheering cry of “ Dig away. Bob ! ” from his better half came
the incentive to go a bit deeper, with the result of the unearthing
of a cluster of Yam-like tubers almost a foot in length.

In the garden we saw among many kinds, all free from
disease, such splendid varieties as Eliza Fenn, Lady Truscott,
Reading Russet, Reading Ruby, and others. There was no
blight and no supertuberation, the foliage supported by short
Pea boughs, aud dressed with the blight-preventing powders, was
perfectly healthy. Xot a disease spore had laid hold of it, and the
tubers were clear-skinned and ripe for lifting. For four con¬
secutive years has Mr. Fenn kept disease off the Potatoes by the
persistent use of the powder, puffing it over the growth from the
earliest stages of growth onwards till the tubers are sufficiently
mature for lifting. He evidently wants no dates for his dressings ;
he lives among his crops, and anticipates their wants. Hitherto he
has used the bellows for this work ; but telling us to wait a bit, he
ran off down the garden — yes, positively ran — quickly returning
with some powder in a fine sieve to illustrate his remarks about
the ease of application of the powder to the surface of the leaves,
which he is positive is the only part in danger. Certainly there
were his Potatoes without a blemish in tuber, stem, or leaf. Has
he not sufficient reason to be positive ? More than this, he holds
that by the maintenance of the foliage in perfect health there is a
more full development of tubers and greater bulk of crop, and he
is right.

Surely it will be admitted that Mr. Fenn has devoted his life
to a work of national importance by the improvement he has
wrought in a staple article of food ? He has given us Potatoes
which are the perfection of size, form, and quality, which are
literally flourballs from the present time till the new Potatoes

come in again. He has improved the old hollow-eyed type out of
cultivation, and now, as a fitting crown and finish of his work, he
is showing in an easy, simple, and certain manner how to prevent
disease from attacking the foliage. He has kept his Tomatoes
equally healthy, the foliage being a bright green, the _ growth
vigorous, and the crop excellent. To ordinary attention is added
an occasional puffing of powder over the whole of the growth, as
being all that is necessary to keep off disease.

Evidently both Robert Fenn and his “Missus” are nothing if
not original—that was apparent everywhere, even at table where we
were regaled with most excellent fare consisting of home-cured
bacon, home-made bread and cider, his seedling Cabbage, First-
and-follow-on, of singularly delicate flavour, and above all some
superb Eliza Fenn Potatoes. After seeing the ample store of jams,
and the barrels of various home-made liquors, we saw the fruit
trees mostly laden with a heavy crop of fruit. Both young and
old trees of “Pay the Rent” had plenty of fiuit upon them, as
have several other kinds. The trees are everywhere — in the orchard,
plantation, garden, and along the margin of the grass land. Some
had been headed down and regrafted, no worthless sort being kept,
every tree being known and cared for as an individual. Just so is
it with the numerous ornamental trees given to Mr. Fenn by his
numerous friends ; a watchful eye is kept upon every one of them,
and needful attention paid to their requirements.

Of the grass and arable land mention will be made in another
article. Of fruit and vegetables much more might be said, for
Mr. Fenn has a marvellous fund of anecdote and reminiscence in
connection with his life’s work most pleasant to hear, and much of
which is worth recording. Quite delightful was it to listen to him,
as he unconsciously showed how he is and has been held in honour
by good men and true. Perhaps one of the greatest compliments
ever paid him was when Mr. Paterson, feeling that his end was draw¬
ing nigh, sent him all his untried seedlings. They were carefully
tested, and the produce of one of them was sent, after Paterson’s
death, to his son, with a note to the effect that it was valuable, and
should be taken care of. That Potato was the famous Paterson’s
Victoria. Quaint old Chaucer taught that truth and honour were
the essential characteristics of a gentleman. In our friend these
high and noble qualities are eminently conspicuous, combined with
kindly feeling, earnestness of purpose, energetic action, and — well,
just a tinge of enthusiasm ; they have made Robert Fenn to be
held in general esteem, and a man whom the three pilgrims, in
common with many others, are proud to term their friend. —
Edward Luckhurst.

There were three of us. One a gardener developed into a
farmer of a somewhat advanced type, also steward, surveyor,
farm and garden instructor, and I know not what besides; one a
philosopher who would not wear a collar to save his head, and
whose cook I would not be for £500 a year ; and one a scribe
who was made to feel rather small early in the day. He is
getting on in years, and his beard is white, but his head scarcely
“turned a hair.” The philosopher is just the reverse— beard
brown, head white. On his being asked for an explanation of
the phenomena he came down a crusher, in the words of an old
Scottish divine — “ Men with white beards and dark hair work
most with their jaws, while men with white heads and dark beards
work most with their brains.” It was useless for the victim to
plead his still tongue as against the philosopher’s great conversa¬
tional power ; the farmer shook his sides like a John Bull in
ecstacies, and the poor scribe appeared to settle into a brown
study, not moving his beard till — well, till dinner time. The
philosopher was there too, very much there, and made one wonder
why his beard had not turned white years ago. Was it dyed?
Now the scribe has had his little revenge he will proceed with his
narrative lightsomely and according to the weather.

“ Why, the man’s writing nonsense ! ” someone says. Yes, he is ;
and the man who says so is reading it, though he has plenty of
substantial fare all around him. “ Oh ! I am so sorry you were in
the village public house the other night,” remarked a good lady to
her butler. To which he replied, “ Yes, my lady. I was, the first
time for twelve months ; but cohere do you think the gossip was
when she saw me there?” If I am told of the shoals of faults in
this free and easy communication I shall know somebody has “been
there,” as the cockney gossips say “ a reading of it,” for which
purpose it was written.

We met at Westbourne Park — not a lordly demesne, but simply
the well-known ticket station of the Great Western Railway. It
was a hot day, and the philosopher was found wrapped in wool —
all wool — for he abhors cotton, and thinks it kills people. On his
white head he had a thick heavy dark cloth cap — to draw the heat,
most people would have thought. Oh, no ! “ Woollen cloth keeps

out the heat and cold alike, and the body exactly at the right
temperature to the fraction of a degree.” Happy man ! But the

September 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

237

burly farmer takes his eye — and fills it ; the first meeting after
more than twenty years. “ Why it can’t be the same young man
of the old days ! yet it muit be. But how you’ve grown ! ” and
then it was a comfort for a quiet man to ensconce himself behind a
newspaper in the most far away corner possible to escape the battle
of the tongues as they fought out the claims of Potatoes and Tulips,
for one of the combatants is great on one, while the other seemed
“gone ” on the other. This Tulip and ’taty war was continued till
the end of the journey, and only ceased when the scribe shouted —
“ There he is ! don’t you see him on the platform, in the cream-
coloured hat ? that’s Fenn ! ” He had come to meet the pilgrims.
What a change from the man in wool ! Here was our host in his
white blouse — indeed white, almost from head to foot, looking as
cool as a Cucumber, while he gave to his friends the warmest of
welcomes, as is his wont. “ And now we have to get home,” quoth
he. “ Here is the cart for three, and the waggonette is coming.”
The cart seemed to tempt the farmer. It was a genuine country
article that had, no doubt, carried many a load of Potatoes, and
had a seat across it for three. Away jogged Fenn and the farmer,
as happy a pair as the man in charge had ever seen safely set down
at Cottage Farm.

There are two ways to Sulhampstead from the station. One
over the bridge to the left, eventually skirting the park — “ Fenn’s
coach road the other to the right through the village of Theale
along the Bath Road to the “ Three Kings and Jack’s Booth” — a
wayside house that marks the turning to our rendezvous. And
here was made a discovery. When the farmer left London he had
as much thought of seeing the Queen as his sister, but here he
discovered her as the happy landlady of “ Jack’s Booth.” No, you
have not caught us, Mr. Watchful Reader, as the butler was
caught — in the public house. We did not go in with the farmer,
but on the return journey waited outside for him like strict TT.’s.

Cottage Farm is a truly rural home two miles from the station.
As auctioneers would say, “It stands in its own grounds of
15 acres,” a picturesque and fertile little property, which has been
greatly improved by Mr. Fenn since he purchased it some fifteen
years ago. We enter the orchard gate, and find thrifty well fed
trees laden with excellent fruit. By a well contrived system farm¬
yard drainage and sewage are conveyed to the trees by channels
cut in the grass, the land gently sloping, and the trees in turns
are given a treat. Of one tree of Cox’s Orange Pippin its owner
is particularly proud. He brought it with him from Woodstock,
but before then exhibited fruit from it at one of the Royal Horti¬
cultural Society’s Shows. Mr. Ingram of Frogmore invariably
won with “ Cox’s,” but that year Mr. Fenn was told, prior to the
judging, he was going to beat the Queen. “ No,” he replied,
“that will never do ; tell the Judges from me that Mr. Ingram
must have the first prize.” It was so decided, but the money for
an extra first was sent to the parson’s gardener who refused to
be placed before the gardener to Her Majesty ; “ and here,” he
says, holding up his hand, “is the result of it” — a massive gold
ring that his then employer, Mr. St. John, obtained for him. Then
the wearer of it goes on to tell that the raiser of the Apple was his
friend residing near Slough, and he pressed Mr. Cox to place it
in the hands of Mr. Charles Turner for distribution — a scrap of
history relating to the best dessert Apple grown in this country.

The barn is a feature at Cottage Farm — a great gaunt old time
wooden structure with a thatched roof. It is a museum of
curiosities — a conglomeration of bags, boxes, and tubs with cider
and wine-making appliances all round. Apples, Pears, Plums,
Brambles, and even the purple-fruited Berberries are all turned to
account ; fermentation is active in tubs and barrels, and the brewer
bustles about to show us his work and ways. As blithsome as a
boy and happy as a prince is Robert Fenn in his rare old barn.

But I must cease. The gardener-farmer said he should write
something, and we must not both tell the same story, or if we do
not tell it in the same way, on the latter point of which there is
little to fear. He will no doubt tell about the Potatoes and
general crops, and perhaps of the home- grown dinner which the
philosopher appeared to enjoy as well as his mundane friends.
There is perhaps one thing he (the Gr. F.) will not think about —
the early history of our host himself. It was a happy thought
that led someone to ask, after a taste of Berberry port, “ Where did
you spring from, old fellow, and where were you trained ? ”
“Spring from, why I sprang from Bury St. Edmunds, and I should
have bought the jail there awhile ago if there had been a bit more
land with it. As for training, I was sent to a jeweller’s shop in
Kensington, and have snatched fruit from a nursery where the
museums now stand. But the jewellery trade didn’t suit me, and
I didn’t mean to have it, so commenced saving my sixpences to
run away, and run away I did. I spent a fortnight in the London
Docks looking for a berth on board ship, but in a weak moment
lent all my money, and have not seen the borrower from that day
to this. I was sought after, caught, and carried home ; then

packed off to Oxfordshire to look after chickens, pheasants, and
other pets belonging to a young gentleman. That was Mr. St.
John, who became Rector of Woodstock, and I remained with
him more than fifty years, rising from boy to man, becoming
gardener, steward, and general factotum, doing everything for him
within the rubric.”

It seems our old friend made himself as useful as he possibly
could in every way until he became indispensable. That is the
way to get on in the world. It is said he became more like
master than man, engaging schoolmasters and curates. We did
not ascertain if this were true ; but we did ask if he preached.
“ No, that would have been out of order: but I read the lessons,
and I read them nov) in church on Sundays.” He is, to speak
colloquially, “one of the old sort” — a monarchy-man, church-
and state-man, and in all his acts a gentleman ; given to hospi¬
tality, ready to help rich and poor alike. He has tried to do
good, and has done good in his day and generation. Such is
Robert Fenn, the pioneer in the improvement of the Potato, a
worthy member of the community, and one of the happiest men
alive. He makes his friends happy too, and his “missus” helps
him. There was just one bright link missing from the cottage ;
rosy-cheeked Alice was not at home. She had crowded the place
with jams and jellies, then gone to London for a change. — The
Scribe.

Cattleya aurea.

This magnificent Cattleya is unusually fine this season, the
continual sunshine suiting it admirably. There can be no doubt a
strong moist heat and plenty of light and sun are required to grow
this species properly, and it well repays the trouble taken in its
culture by the gorgeous flowers so freely produced under these
circumstances.

Cattleya Gaskelliana.

This favourite species also is now in full beauty, and it is very
valuable on account of its flowering after C. Mossim is over. There
are some splendid types now in cultivation, many of them coming
near to C. gigas in size, and very richly coloured. If the
plants are removed to a cooler and drier atmosphere while in bloom
it will serve the double purpose of ripening the bulbs and con¬
serving the flowers over a longer period than would be the case if
they remained in the house where grown.

Oncidium incurvum.

This very distinct and pretty Oncidium is now flowering freely.
It is one of the best of the small-flowered species, not unlike
O. ornithorynchum in habit, but the blossoms are larger and the
growth is rather more robust. The spikes on well-grown plants
attain a height of fully 30 inches, and are much branched and very
elegantly arched. The flowers are white, freely spotted and barred
with purply rose, and remain a long time in good condition. It is
very easily grown in an ordinary compost, and a temperature
slightly higher than that usually given to cool house Orchids. —
H. R. R.

Orchids at Highbury.

According to a daily contemporary, Mr. J. Chamberlain, M.P.,
unlike many amateurs of floriculture, has ample means at his
disposal for the gratification of his hobby. It is stated that Mr.
Chamberlain now has about 5000 plants of all kinds, and from all
parts of the Orchid-producing world, and, of course, the number is
being continually added to. They fill thirteen of the eighteen glass
houses ranged along the side of the handsome yet unpretentious
residence. When Mr. and Mrs. Chamberlain are in London a
box of beautiful blooms is sent every week for the decoration
of their house in Prince’s Gate. In addition, two flowers of the
kinds best adapted to the buttonhole are sent every day, and it is
with one of these that the famous politician generally makes bis
appearance in the House of Commons.

Disa lacera.

This has repeatedly been described as the “blue Disa,” and
generally excites some interest. The flowers are small, of a bluish
purple hue, and are produced on a slender scape without leaves.
Alone it is not a very conspicuous plant, but associated with others
the flowers have a good appearance, owing to their distinct colour,
though this is by no means the brilliant blue some might be led to

^38

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 14, 1893.

expect from glowing descriptions given in past times of the blue
Disas at the Cape. It has, no doubt, been carefully determined,
but several reliable authors mention D. lacera as having white or
whitish jflowers. A few weeks ago I saw a plant of it in full
flower. — Specialist. _ _

AN EXPERIMENT WITH SHANKING GRAPES,

The above heading will no doubt catch the eye of some reader^
who have racked their brains to find a method for preventing
shanking in Grapes. Let me at the outset disclaim any pretension
of having solved the problem, because the same treatment applied
under different conditions might produce totally different results.
The Vines under notice are probably about forty years old, with
their roots in a narrow inside border passing to an outside
border. The varieties are Black Hamburgh except one Muscat
Hamburgh and one Muscat of Alexandria. The house a lean-to
adjoins the hall, which makes the use of strong natural manures
objectionable. The outside border, originally a deep oblong space
filled with fairly good soil and without any separating wall,
is joined to a lawn, the latter having about a foot of light soil
resting on a bed of clay. A few years ago an attempt was made to
bring the roots nearer the surface. The old soil was taken out
down to the clay, and a compost of chopped turf, half-inch bones,
and old lime rubbish used in its stead, but with no appreciable
effect with regard to the shanking.

Last year about a dozen bunches were left unthinned, and these
bunches had not a shanked berry in them. It was at once decided
that this year’s crop should be left entirely unthinned. Anticipating
the extra strain such a proceeding would entail on the Vines, steps
were taken to meet it in the following manner.

In the early part of November the borders were lightly forked
over, and a heavy dressing of fresh cow manure applied. This was
removed in February, and another supply afforded, which remained
till the first week in May, when it was taken off and the borders
again forked over. From that time till the fruit began colouring,
the undiluted drainings of a cowshed were regularly poured on the
borders. Tuesday and Friday in each week were the appointed
days for this purpose, and adhered to.

The result of this treatment is a magnificent crop of good
bunches with medium-sized berries (no puny stoneless ones),
excellent in flavour, but, as might be expected, deficient in colour.
Against this defect I may add that they are much thinner-skinned
than any Grapes I ever tasted. There are a few shanked berries
here and there, but there are also dozens of bunches without a
shanked berry in them, whereas in previous years there was not a
bunch but was more or less affected by the disease. That dispensing
altogether with the scissors has had something to do with the result
I have no doubt ; but my belief is that poverty at the root is the
chief cause of shanking, and after the above experience I am more
than ever inclined to agree with the Scotchman’s sage remark that
“ Muck’s the gardener.” — Thos. Richaedson, The Gardens,
Simonside Hall, South Shields.

[We should like to hear what some of our Grape-growing readers
have to say on this subject. We are inclined to think that Mr.
Richardson, who gives such a clear account of his experiments,
may, if he wishes, have Grapes free from shanking on thinned
bunches in some not far distant future.]

HARDY FLOWER NOTES.

It is with mingled feelings of joy and of sadness that we view
our own and other gardens when September has begun its brief
course. The sadness comes unwillingly, but we cannot but fear that
frost may come suddenly, depriving some gardens of their beautjL
We are fain, however, to drink deeply of the cup of true pleasure
while we may. Roses have been blooming with a freedom rarely
seen ; Dahlias of various types have been brilliant in many gardens,
and a beautiful band of flowers of many kinds which the florists’
art has made almost perfect have come and gone. As we look on
these flowers we feel constrained to think with gratitude of the good
and true florists who have sought to give better form and colour to
the wildlings of Nature. Many of our garden flowers have been
improved by art. Look upon the old white Phloxes, and compare
them with such varieties as Panama, perfect in form and with larger
flowers of purest white ; or compare the beauty of some of the old
scarlet forms with such fine plants as Flambeau or Toreador, and we
are forced to admit the gain is great. Nor is there any real anta¬
gonism between the hardy flowers fresh from Nature’s hand and
those subjected to the florists’ art ; they dwell happily together.
The charming Violetta and the beautiful Violas of the present day
are vrelcome here beside such untutored flowers as the little Viola
Zoysi or V. biflora. The garden in the autumn has much of interest

besides those plants of improved form. All aglow with colour have
been the golden composites which are, perhaps, too numerous, but
whose beauty we cannot fail to recognise. Sunflowers, from the
great flowered annual forms, which one would think were those of
which Browning spoke when he said —

“ Fancy the Pampas’ sheen 1

Miles and miles of gold and green,

Where the Sunflowers blow
In a solid glow,”

to the tall, but miniature-flowered Helianthus giganteus or the
graceful decapetalus ; Heleniums, with charming flowers, graceful
Coreopsis, golden Coneflowers, and those Silphiums which prove not
true to their name of the Compass Plant ; these, with many others
of similar hue and form, seem to have revelled in the sunlight of
this brilliant year, and as the sun’s rays shine upon them they seem
to be returning some of the brilliancy they have received.

Among the most graceful of these Sunflowers is one which is
grown under the name of Helianthus Buttaris (?), and which I saw in
flower this year again. The habit of the plant is much like that of
H. decapetalus, but it is taller in growth, slightly more graceful, and
producing more flowers, which are barely 3 inches across. Looking
at the plant one was forced to grieve at the fact that unless it could
have been shown as a whole its beauty could never be properly seen
at a flower show, and thus its graces could not be revealed to the
people at large. Another beautiful yellow composite — for, despite
some adverse criticism, I am still disposed to claim some beauty for
the plant — is Chrysogonum virginianum, a flower not likely to
be much seen at exhibitions, and one which, I fancy, one learns to
appreciate from seeing day after day in bloom for months together.
Here, in a rather low and damp position, and receiving a good supply
of water in the dry season, a plant has, for two or more years,
become more and more attractive in my eyes. It is neat and dwarf
in habit ; in some books the height is given as 6 inches, but here it
grows to 10 or 12 inches. The leaves arc rather ovate and serrated,
and the flowers, though small, being barely H inch across, are pretty
in colour, being a bright yellow, approaching orange. It is a native
of the United States, but I can find no record of the date of its
introduction. The free and continuous flowering habit of C. virgini¬
anum, blooming as it does from May onward, will always render it
acceptable in the garden of hardy flowers.

While the yellow composites are perhaps predominant in the
autumn, we must strive to give other shades of colour and other
forms of flower to adorn the borders, and, so far as regards colour,
the fine blooms of Rudbeckia or Echinacea purpurea are always
objects of admiration. It is gratifying to find that it is being
increasingly grown, and that wherever seen it is much admired. The
flowers, which are about 4 inches across, are what one might call a
red purple, and are tipped at the ends with a greenish or grey-green
colour. This is a defect, but it is possible that this might disappear
in the case of some of the plants raised from seed, and it is to be
hoped that this improvement may be attained. The leaves are rather
rough and slightly toothed, and the plant grows in some cases 5 or
6 feet in height. There seem to be at least two distinct forms
grown under this name, and the plant is said to vary much from
seed. Any that I have seen may be divided into two varieties, one
with broader leaves and petals, and more robust in growth, and
another considerably inferior, although very pretty also. Some three
or four Echinaceas are in cultivation, but purpurea, or what passes
as such, is the one most frequently met with. It thrives freely in
any good open soil, and can be increased by seeds or division. More
might be said about these desirable plants, but others must have
notice at the present time.

Exceedingly useful in the autumn, and valuable from its contrast
in colour and form with the composites, is one of the numerous
varieties of the Veronicas — V. corymbosa, which, with its corymbose
spikes of deep purple-blue flowers, is extremely attractive and
distinct. The name is given with all reserve, as the Veronicas are
in hopeless confusion ; but it came to me from a Dumbartonshire
garden under this name, which is quite applicable. I should, how¬
ever, be glad if anyone who can recognise the plant from this brief
description can give me any further information about it, and correct
the name if erroneous. It must not, however, be confounded with
V. corymbiflora, a dwarfer species or variety, and one of the most
valuable of our autumn flowers for the rock garden. V. corymbosa
grows here rather less than 2 feet in height, but in strong soils
should grow rather taller. The leaves, which are of the usual
Veronica type, are bright green above and slightly downy below.
It grows freely in ordinary soil, and requires no care. According to
Paxton, V. corymbosa is synonymous with V. polystachia, which, it
appears, was introduced in 1817, but whence no information is given.
A note on hardy flowers at the beginning of September, when this
is written, would be incomplete without at least a passing reference
to the simple beauty of the hardy Cyclamen in full blossom on the
rockery. Here the marbled foliage and charming flowers of

September 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

239

C. hederaefolium and C. grsecum form objects of the greatest beauty.
They grow well under the shade of trees or at the base of rockwork,
and are benefited by the addition of lime to the soil. No one can
fail to admire the grace of these little flowers, drooping their heads
from stems uplifted above the marbled leaves. The only depre¬
ciating remark that can be applied to them is that the flowers “ are
small." This is true when compared with the greenhouse varieties
of C. persicum ; but beauty does not exist only in large flowers, and
the modest worth of these hardy “Bleeding Nuns ” will endear them
to all who grow them.

It has fallen to the writer more than once to speak in favour of
the Meadow SafErons, and once again he would plead for recognition
of their value. Early as they have been this season, coming when
other flowers were plentiful, they have yet been very attractive in
their various forms. The rosy purple flowers of Colchicum
autumnale have been far surpassed in beauty by the rose-coloured
C. byzantinum, which is almost perfect in form, while this again has
been eclipsed by the ruby flowers of C. speciosum rubrum and
C. veratrifolium of Tulip-like size ; and these, in turn, have yielded
to the superior charms of the magnificent C. speciosum maximum,
the gem perhaps of all with the exception of C. Sibthorpi, which I
have not as yet had the good fortune to possess, but which I hope
will adorn my garden another year. Very beautiful, too, have been the
double forms of C. autumnale, the rosy purple one forming a charming
tuft through a carpet of the foliage of Anemone coronaria, and the
double white flowering later and coming into bloom with the beautiful
Crocus specioEUS, the first of the genus to flower this autumn here.

The earlier Michaelmas Daisies have been for some time in flower,
and with other plants have softened the glare of the yellow flowers ;
while the KniphoficS or Tritomas, which are flowering unusually
well in my garden this season, have added variety to the scene. —
S. A KNOTT, Dumfries.

SOFT VERSUS HARD COLD WATER.

I AM sure many readers of the Journal have been waiting anxiously
to see whether Mr. Dunn would accept “ W. P. W.’s” invitation, and
give U8 the benefit of his ideas, and I am equally certain many must be
astounded to read them in the face of present day facts. I would not
have thought it possible to find anyone who would dare to advance such
a theory as Mr. Dunn’s in the horticultural press. I am inclined to
think your correspondent has only put forth a small skirmishing party,
while his heavy guns are still in the rear. I may perhaps be a somewhat
dull reader, but after going carefully over Mr. Dunn’s communication
twice I fail to find a single point which will hold water. I am one of
those cultivators who do believe cold hard water is something more than
slow poison to plants, and will now relate a few stubborn facts.

When I first started on my gardening career it was impressed upon
me very forcibly never to give Cucumbers, Vines, and plants water
which had been taken direct from the tap, but always to make sure it
was somewhere near the same temperature as the house, and for that
purpose we used to add hot water out of the boiler. I came to look upon
this addition of hot water as absolutely necessary, but was destined to
change my ideas. Having entered a market growing concern, what did
I see ? Simply nothing else but cold water being used, and the crops —
well, they were far superior to anything I had seen in private gardens.

I have seen such results where the plants and trees have only received
cold hard water that for a long time past — to adopt a soapy phrase — I
have used no other. I do not mean to say I drench my houses during
the dead of winter, but after March it is invariably applied to all the
plants growing therein. Our Cucumbers are “ hosed up ’’ during the
summer months every morning at 6 A.M., the borders and whole house
from roof to floor completely drenched. We are compelled to use it at
this early hour because it comes from the main of the water company,
and after the carts commence watering the roads our pressure is con¬
siderably reduced. Is the water cold ? So cold that one’s thumb gets
quite numb with it. In the afternoon the houses are drenched through
again. This is all the “soft” water the Cucumbers receive. I have never
grown better fruit or heavier crops. I have a friend who is obliged to
rise at 4 A.M. to get his houses “hosed up” before the water carts start.

The Palms grown for market and nursery purposes are all treated to
a similar routine in many of our large establishments. I know one very
large firm who use the hose at the end of March, and keep using it
continuously till the following winter. Even Mr. Dunn must admit the
Palms sent into Covent Garden Market are unsurpassed for colour and
general appearance. It is very evident some plants thrive a long while
on Mr. Dunn’s “ slow poison.” I doubt very much whether the Heaths
so largely grown by some firms ever have soft water ; their engines pump
it into tanks, but the men use it as fast as it is pumped, so it cannot be
exposed to the air for any length of time.

I will now quote an instance of Grape culture. At one of the
largest Grape growing establishments in this country, where tons of
fruit are grown and sent to various parts of the country, and even to
New York, hard cold water is alone used, and there are few Vines
cropped so heavily. The houses have to be strutted up owing to the
weight of the crop. In this particular instance rain water is not saved,
and absolutely no water is given to the Vines but that lifted by engines.

I could enumerate many more instances in different branches where
the much despised cold hard water has to be used, and is used most ^

successfully. I entirely differ with Mr. Dunn as to plants treated with
hard water looking pale and sickly. I do not find it so. The majority
of my Chrysanthemums are watered with the hose, and they do not
present the appearance your correspondent would have us believe they
do under such treatment. Mr. Dunn’s experience with insect pests is
also somewhat novel, especially when I remember plenty of Peach houses
where the foliage is kept green and healthy by no other means than cold
water. I take it I have proved by actual practice that Mr. Dunn is
“ whimsical,” and certainly in my opinion his ideas on the subjects of
which he writes are out of date. — J. B. R.

CAMPANULA NITIDA ALBA.

C. NITIDA, or C. planiflora as it is sometimes called, has been in
cultivation for more than a century. It is a North American species,

and differs considerably in habit and appearance from most of the
European species. The short stiff leaves are arranged in dense rosettes.
From these rise the spikes, 6 to 9 inches high, of large salver-shaped
flowers. The latter, which open one at a time, are about 2 inches in
diameter, and of a flne violet colour with a smooth shining surface.
The plant is peculiar for the rigidity of all its parts. It succeeds well
as a pot plant when grown in a mixture of good loam and leaf soil
with a few pieces of soft sandstone intermixed. In many places it can
be grown successfully in the open border or rock garden, but some
growers have a difficulty in keeping it in these positions. C. nitida alba
differs only from the type in having white instead of violet flowers.
The illustration (fig. 34) has been prepared from a plant that was
recently flowering in the Royal Gardens, Kew. — A. B.

240

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 14, 1893.

National Eose Society.

Every man has a perfect right to his own opinion, whether he be
Mr. Grahame, his anonymous friend, or “ E. M.” Now my opinion on the
question of Mr. Grahame’s circular is briefly this. That the result of
the inquiries made in that circular having been published in one of your
contemporaries since I last wrote you on the subject, no further
correspondence on my part is needed. — E. M., BerUhampstead,

[Nor, we think, on Mr. Grahame’s part either, and the present
discussion is now closed.]

Eose The Bride.

According to my experience The Bride is a stronger grower than
Niphetos, and in some respects a fuller and better Eose. In growth and
the construction of its flowers it closely resembles its parent, Catherine
Mermet. The greater number of petals in the flower than Niphetos
possesses is in favour of its lasting longer, but the flowers have not
the pure whiteness of Niphetos. The greenish tint, however, is not
objectionable in either wreaths or bouquets. We have lately had
occasion to use it for these purposes, and good full flowers are lovely.
It will never supersede Niphetos in my opinion for market purposes, for
although it is a stronger grower it does not flower so profusely ; in fact,
it possesses the character of its parent in this respect in a marked degree.
— Eosa,

Eosa Polyantha (Fairy Eoses).

These charming Eoses should be extensively grown if only for their
marvellous autumn flowering qualities, for they are particularly bright
in appearance at this period of the year. If well treated they make
strong bushes, the ends of every shoot being crowned with a profusion
of bloom, embracing in their varieties shades of colour varying from
pure white to yellow, pink, and deep scarlet. For bedding and massing
purposes they are admirably adapted ; yet up to the present their
qualities in this direction have been overlooked. For forcing purposes,
for bouquets or buttonholes, they are also useful, and should be exten¬
sively used by persons interested.

The following are the best varieties, yet there are many others well
worthy of cultivation : — Anna Marie de Montravel, purest white, well
formed; Golden Fairy, nankeen yellow, a miniature Wm. Allen
Richardson ; Etoile d’Or, canary yellow ; Mignonette, soft rosy pink,
very beautiful ; Georges Pernet, rosy peach ; The Pet, pure white, very
large clusters ; Blanche Eebatel, bright carmine. — J. E.Merryweather.

A New Hybrid Eose.

A RECENT number of the “ Garden and Forest ” contained an illus*
tration of a “ New Hybrid Eose,” with which the following particulars
were given “In the year 1891 Mr. Jackson Dawson fertilized a flower
of Eosa Wichuraiana with pollen of General Jacqueminot, and in
December he planted four seeds which resulted from this cross. The
seedlings appeared in January, 1892, were grown in pots during the
summer and wintered in a cold pit. All bloomed in June of this year,
which is rather remarkable, since few seedling Eoses bloom before the
second or third year. These plants differ materially, although they all
show to some degree the trailing habit of the seed parent. One of them
has single pale pink flowers, borne in clusters, and is intermediate in
habit between the two parents. Another one bore double flowers of a
pale flesh colour, which did not open well, owing to damp weather.
The third one has a prostrate habit, with rosy pink flowers borne in
clusters of four or flve from every joint of its last year’s wood. It
received a first-class certificate from the Massachusetts Horticultural
Society at its Eose Show in June. The fourth plant (which is the one
referred to as being illustrated) is not as prostrate in habit as Eosa
Wichuraiana, and its broader leaves have a glossy surface. The solitary
flowers are very double, and in shape and colour resemble those of
Souvenir de la Malmaison, although they are smaller. The plant con¬
tinues in bloom a long time and promises to be very useful.”

VEGETABLE CULTURE IN ADVERSE SEASONS.

During the past two seasons the cultivation of vegetables has been
a diflScult task, and whilst the struggles with the dry weather are fresh
in the minds of gardeners in their efforts to keep the table well supplied
with tender produce a few notes on some of the most useful kinds
may be of service.

Evidently many gardeners have succeeded in producing first-class
produce, judging from the excellent dishes staged at the shows during
the past summer, and no doubt equally good vegetables have been grown
in various parts of the country and not taken to shows. Gardens lying
in low positions have had the advantage of those on higher ground, and
in many cases the latter slope as well. In such the retention of moisture
is of paramount importance. Exceptionally dry springs, accompanied
with cutting east winds, followed by months of drought, are the most
unsuitable to the free growth of vegetables. What, then, does recent

experience teach us ? I think two most important lessons — namely, the
necessity of deep cultivation and mulching.

By deep cultivation I do not mean turning up the subsoil and placing
it on the surface, especially where it is of a cold retentive nature, but
thoroughly loosening and mixing with it garden refuse, if in a charred
state so much the better, and then turning over the surface soil upon it.
This, if done when the ground is tolerably dry, during the autumn or
winter months, and allowed to remain with a rough surface so that the
weather can act upon it, will produce a good seed bed in spring. Never
work the land while it is in a wet condition, or the evil effects will be
felt during the whole of the following season.

Mulching during the dry months of summer will prove to be of the
greatest value. Mulch with manure, decayed leaves, half-decayed straw,
or grass from the lawns after mowing ; failing these form a dust mulch
by continually plying the Dutch hoe between the crops. This is of
more value on light soils than continued drenchings of cold water from
a can.

Potatoes.

As Potatoes are the chief mainstay of every garden I will deal with
them first. This is the proper time to select the seed tubers for next
year, and great care should be bestowed upon them. Medium-sized sets
are the best, and if placed thinly in boxes or cool sheds, and kept safe
from frost during the winter, but given as much light as possible, a good
beginning will have been made towards the next season’s work.

The ground will next require attention. If stable manure is to be
used apply it in the autumn or early spring, thoroughly mixing it with
the soil to a good depth, whether it be light or heavy ; but, if heavy,
leave the surface as rough as possible. The weather acting upon it will
pulverise and make it suitable for planting in due time.

Previously to planting the seed tubers should be examined, and if
more than one or two shoots are prominent reduce by removing them
to that number. If seed is scarce they may be cut in two, leaving one
sprout on each section ; but I prefer to plant medium-sized whole tubers
with sprouts on them a quarter or half an inch long, not pale in colour,
but dark green. If the soil is heavy spread over the surface cinders and
leaves of any kind. If artificial manures are to be used, sprinkle them
in the drills before planting, and a small quantity of dry lime is of
service in keeping worms away and the skin of the Potatoes clean. To
avoid disease plant in rows 24 inches apart for early and 30 inches
for late sorts, the former 12 inches asunder in the drills, and the latter
18 inches. Close planting often means the reverse of a heavy crop of
fine tubers. Remove some of the haulm in a young state if any of the
roots appear crowded with it. Well ply the hoe between the rows early,
and keep the crop clean.

Early sorts may be planted in February if protection can be given
from frosts during the first part of May ; but the middle of March is
soon enough in exposed situations, and not later than the 20th April
for late sorts. A change of seed is highly beneficial. All should be
lifted and stored during dry weather if possible. Some of the best
varieties are Ringleader, Early Puritan, Rivers’ Royal Ashleaf, and
Myatt’s Ashleaf for early use. Second early ; Windsor Castle, Early
Regent, Snowdrop, and Beauty of Hebron ; Triumph, Magnum Bonum,
and Clarke's Maincrop Kidney for late use, with Vicar of Laleham as
a coloured companion. It is a good cropper and shapely.

Peas.

This is a very important crop, and a wise selection of varieties must
be made, with good ground for growing them. We sow early sorts on
warm, sunny borders, midseason and late ones in trenches, not as
prepared for Celery, as I think these are usually made too deep. If the
trenches for Peas are 8 inches deep in the first instance they will do.
Throw out the soil on each side evenly, place in a good dressing of well-
decayed manure, and well mix it with the soil at the bottom of the
trench. If left in an undisturbed mass, and a hot season follows, the
manure dries up, but if well incorporated with the soil it does not.
One inch of soil must be placed in the trench afterwards and trod down
a little. Upon this sow the seeds evenly and thinly, covering with
2 inches of earth ; thus an open trench is left 5 inches deep. In the
summer I prefer to cover the seeds deeper. When the Peas are 2 inches
high or so, if they appear to be at all crowded, thin them out a little
before drawing the soil to each side of the rows. This will prove a good
means of support. Staking ought not to be delayed. The sticks should
be put in very firmly, according to the height of each variety, not
omitting to use a few small branches. If any variety is thought to be
behind the time at which produce is wanted, topping the plants will
cause them to pod more quickly.

Avoid watering Peas unless it can be constantly attended to. Even
then I doubt its benefit. Better than watering is mulching after a good
rain. Leaves, half-decayed manure, or lawn grass should be placed on
the surface of the soil on each side of the rows to a depth of 2 inches.
There is no question as to the benefit the plants derive from this opera¬
tion, but it should not be too long delayed, or its use will be of little
avail. If the rows are 6 to 9 feet apart, with such crops as Potatoes,
Cauliflowers, or Spinach between, the sun acts on both sides, and fuller
crops of Peas result.

There are so many varieties that a good selection should be made. Of
first earlies Laxton’s Earliest of All, Dickson’s First and Best,
William I. ; of second earlies Champion of England, Duke of Albany,
and Royal Jubilee ; for late use Veitch’s Perfection, Autocrat, and Ne
Plus Ultra are good. No garden should be without the last named, as
it withstands mildew till the crop is nearly all gathered. Sowings may

September 14, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

241

be made in the autumn, but I prefer to sow in pots or turves in spring
and plant out in favourable weather if early Peas are urgently required.
Ashes, soot, and lime scattered around the rows in spring will prevent
slugs destroying the plants. Mildew is often very troublesome, during a
dry summer especially ; the best preventive is to sow those sorts which
resist it the best, and avoid the use of cold water. — G. Gaexer.

(To he continued.)

PARAGRAPHS ABORT THE PARKS.

Eegent’s Park.

As most people who have a geographical knowledge of London and
its suburbs are aware. Regent’s Park is situated in the north-western
portion of the metropolis, and is of easy access from all parts. Visitors
from the north arriving at King’s Cross, St. Pancras, or Euston Stations,
can reach Regent’s Park in a few minutes, either by the Underground
Railway to Portland Road Station, or by omnibus along the Euston
Road. Similarly those who arrive in the metropolis from the south side
will find that many ’buses from Charing Cross and the Strand pass this
park, in which may be found the famous Zoological Gardens, and also
the Gardens of the Royal Botanic Society, The park is a large one, and
is a popular resort of many Londoners.

The summer bedding in Regent’s Park is always well done, and this
year proves no exception to the rule. Some borders and occasional beds
may, of course, be found in various parts of the park, but the principal
bedding is to be seen near the entrance, a few hundred yards from Portland
Road Station, Immediately inside the gates the visitor comes upon a
series of beds well filled with plants. Traversing the walk on the right
a number of standard and pyramid Fuchsias sunk in the turf in clumps
attracts attention, the plants being well grown and profusely flowered.
These are usually a feature here, and are greatly admired. Opposite to
a group of Fuchsias is a clump of foliage plants comprising tall speci¬
mens of Dracmna lineata. Bamboos, Cycas revoluta, and Tree Ferns.
Being slightly shaded by trees, these have done well during the past
summer, and doubtless imparted a cool appearance, if such were possible,
on the oppressive days of August. Last week when I saw the plants
they were as fresh looking as when under glass.

A noticeable feature in this park, as it is in others in and around the
metropolis, is the excellent manner in which plants are arranged in the
beds. Now and then some fastidious person takes exception to certain
combinations, but these instances, as they should be, are rare. Taken as
a whole the bedding in the London parks is exceptionally well done,
and many a gardener might glean a few useful hints by paying an
annual visit to them. The plants, moreover, flourish amazingly con¬
sidering the fact that the atmosphere is not always of the purest kind,
and as regards the arrangements but little fault can be found. These
remarks apply to the park now under notice, and Mr. W. Jordan, the
Superintendent, has cause to be proud of the result of his labours this
year.

There are some charming beds on each side of the walk to which
allusion has been made. One filled with Begonia semperflorens rubra
and Kbniga maritima variegata and Dactylis glomerata variegata is very
attractive and worthy of imitation. A similar shaped bed filled with
Begonia semperflorens rosea and Mesembryanthemum cordifolium varie-
gatum is also good. The Begonias are covered with pink blossoms,
which form a pleasing contrast to the yellowish foliage of the Mesem¬
bryanthemum. By the way, it is noted that the various forms of Begonia
semperflorens are used extensively for bedding in all of the metropolitan
parks, and for which purpose they are apparently well adapted . These
Begonias are likely to prove dangerous rivals to the tuberous-rooted
section.

At the end of the walk referred to a large corner bed on the right is
noticeable for the manner in which the plants are arranged. The back¬
ground is filled with huge Palms, over the leaves of which Tropaeolums
have grown, and are flowering profusely; Near to the front are masses
of Lilium tigrinum, standard Fuchsias, Ivy-leaved Pelargonium Abel
Carrier!, Begonia semperflorens rosea, and Veronica Andersoni. These
plants are placed in bold clumps, which show to perfection their
characteristics and adaptability for the purpose. Those persons who
are fond of neat, formal combinations would perhaps find little in this
bed to admire, but to others who, like myself, prefer artistic arrange¬
ments, there is much that is worthy of admiration.

Leaving this corner group and turning to the left more beds of
various shapes may be seen; They are all well filled with plants
of different kinds, and for the second week in September are most
effective. Two beds in particular, however, attract one’s attention,
these being what a lady would term “ lovely.” One of these beds
presents a fairy-like appearance. It is round in shape, and would
remind one of a bride’s bouquet had it been raised a little. During the
whole of my travels in gardens I have never seen a similar arrangement.
The centre is filled with Dactylis glomerata variegata and Lilium
lancifolium album, amongst which were plants of Asparagus plumosus,
the sprays of the latter giving the whole a light graceful appearance.
The bed is edged with a row of Begonia Worthiana, outside which is a
ring of deep green Saxifraga. The opposite bed to this, of a similar size

and shape, is devoted to Begonia semperflorens rosea and Kbniga
maritima variegata, from which rise plants of the charming Eulalia
gracillima. _

The vases filled with flowering and ornamental foliage plants are not
the least striking feature in this park. This year these must have caused
much labour in watering, but it has apparently been well done, for the
plants have made vigorous growth. A huge clump in the centre of the
“flower garden” is particularly noticeable. This is perhaps 15 or
20 feet high, there being a very large stone vase in the centre of a raised
bed, although this is hidden from view. The vase is filled with varie¬
gated Abutilons, Eucalyptus globosa, fine Zonal Pelargoniums, and
(Irevillea robusta, the sides being draped with Tropjeolums, Ivy-leaved
Pelargoniums, and other drooping plants. Around these come Palms,
Abutilons, huge Zonal Pelargoniums full of bloom, and various other
plants, the whole making a striking effect. There are several smaUer
vases, and these likewise make an imposing display.

Reference should be made to two clumps of succulents, Saxifragas and
Sedums, which doubtless interest many visitors. These are formed near
two walks and beneath the shade of trees. All the plants, moreover, are
named, the labels being well and distinctly written so that anyone
might without difficulty ascertain the appellation of any particular
plant. The ground in each bed is covered w.th Sedums and Saxifragas,
amongst which S. lactea and S. Aizoides, are conspicuous, and from these
rise clumps of Agave americana and its variegated variety, Echeverias,
Sempervivums, and other succulent plants. All are arranged with
excellent taste, and if less showy than some of the other beds are none the
less interesting. _

Much more could be said in regard to the bedding in Regent’s Park,
but space is limited, other parks have yet to be mentioned. A note
should be made, however, of the many charming beds of Celosias, which
at this period of the year are exceptionally bright and attractive.
Lilium tigrinum is also used with good effect in many beds, and the
same may be said of other Liliums. Early Chrysanthemums, too,
must not be overlooked, and it would be well if these were as extensively
used for bedding purposes in private gardens as they are in the parks.
They also make a splendid show on the numerous borders, and likewise
do huge clumps of Nicotiana affinis and various autumn flowering
plants.

Finsbury Park.

This is another popular open space of northern London, and is
situated close to Finsbury Park station on the Great Northern Railway.
Tram cars and ’buses also pass the park by the Seven Sisters Road and
Green Lanes, which may be easily reached from the centre of the
metropolis. It is much smaller than Regent’s Park, but the bedding is
always effective, and to Chrysanthemum growers Finsbury Park has
long been known. The culture of the Chrysanthemum is encouraged
here. A huge glass structure nearly 100 feet in length is now being
erected as a show house for the plants by the London County Council.
When finished it will be a very fine building, and one in which the
plants, of which more than 3000 are grown, will be seen to advantage.
For the benefit of the uninitiated it may be mentioned that this
structure for the Chrysanthemums is situated near the Manor House
entrance, which tram cars from the city and other points pass every few
minutes during the day. _

Much of the bedding in this park is to be found not far from the
Manor House. On entering at this point the visitor is brought face to
face wdth an imposing bed of green and purple-leaved Cannas, Gladioli
in variety, Eulalia gracillima, and other plants, the edging being
composed of Chamaepeuce, Cineraria maritima, and Begonia semper¬
florens alba. Near by are several beds devoted to carpet bedding, and
the Alternantheras are richly coloured this season. A series of beds of
different shapes flank each side of a walk which lead to the right from
this entrance, and these are filled in charming manner. Two beds de¬
voted to Begonia Worthiana, pink and white Pelargoniums, with dot
plants of Acacia lophantha, and edgings of blue Lobelia are most attrac¬
tive. It is impossible to describe the pretty effect which these beds
produce, and to realise the value of the combinations they must be seen.

Cannas are well employed in this park, and with the addition of
Verbena venosa make several simple though attractive beds. Begonia
semperflorens rubra is also used with good effect, the foliage being a rich
bronzy colour in the open air, which enhances its appearance consider¬
ably. A bed planted with B. semperflorens atro-purpurea and variegated
Pelargoniums likewise commands attention, and the same applies^ to
beds filled with pink Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums, dark Tuberous Begonias,
and dot plants of Grevillea robusta. Fuchsias are freely used in some
beds, and in others single Petunias are flowering most profusely. _ These
are easily grown plants, and, as a ru e, they are most effective during the
end of the summer and in the autumn.

In what is known as the “ Surprise Garden,” from the fact that
visitors not acquainted with its whereabouts come upon it somewhat
suddenly when near the lake, some good bedding is noticeable. This
garden is on the top of the hill, and is surrounded by masses of shrubs,
a broad wall passing through the centre. The beds on each side arc
similar in shape and size, and are planted alternately with the same

242

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 14, 1893.

kind of plants. Those at the back are chiefly filled with Gannas, Sweet-
scented Tobacco, and other tall plants, the beds near the front being
devoted to dwarfer plants and carpet bedding. The latter is very fine,
the designs being well worked and the foliage of the plants richly
coloured. One bed is so good that it may be individualised. The ground
is covered with Antennaria tomentosa and the design made with
Alternanthera versicolor and A. aurea nana. The centres of the division
are occupied with Dracmnas and Grevillea robusta, and there are also
dot plants of Sempervivums and Pachyphytums. An edging of Echeveria
secunda glauca completes the arrangement, which is most effective.

Other beds in this portion of the park are also specially attractive,
and are much admired by visitors. A circular bed of Begonias, Grevillea
robusta, and Ageratum is noticeable as being an excellent arrange¬
ment — simple though effective. The same can be said of a Begonia
semperflorens rubra, Veronica Andersoni, Ageratum, with an edging of
blue Lobelia and Mesembryanthemum cordifolium variegatum. Some
beds planted with Centaurea candidissima and Verbena venosa are also
pleasing in appearance, and one filled with pink Ivy-leaved Pelar¬
goniums pegged down, mixed with Acacia lophantha and Begonias, is
unusually showy. _

Dahlias are grown in huge clumps, and are flowering well this year,
the double forms being particularly good. The borders are very gay
with large masses of Portulacas, Phloxes, Helianthuses, Liliums, and
other autumn flowers, whilst during the summer the annuals are
generally seen to advantage here. On the grass some fine clumps of the
autumn flowering Crocuses are noticeable, these being in full flower.
Notwithstanding the trying summer Finsbury Park has well maintained
its reputation for bedding this year, and the whole reflects credit upon
Mr. Melville the Superintendent. — Observer.

ABOUT APPLES AND PEARS.

As there is nothing more important in connection with hardy fruit
growing than the knowledge of local suitability, it may be well to say
that we are midway between Durham and Newcastle, or between the
Tyne and Wear. This also might be noticed, that we are some ten days
later than are districts that lie on the southern suburbs of Edinburgh.
The years 1891 and 1892 being each cold and wet makes the present
year’s results of more than average value, as it has proved to us which
varieties of Apples and Pears require the least sun to mature their fruit
Duds. Hereabouts, where there has been failure, it has not been owing
to heavy cropping last year, as we were not so favoured, but solely due
to weakness in resisting frost or to unripe wood following the previous
sunless season.

The Cellini, which I consider the hardiest of all Apples, has once
again demonstrated that it knows nothing of bad years. With us this
useful Apple is an unfailing bearer. Kegarding Lord Suffield, which is
frequently alluded to as subject to canker, it is surprising to find how
short a distance between orchards evidences this failing. On my place
it does remarkably well, whereas with my neighbour, who has a thinner
soil with a dry gravelly subsoil. Lord Grosvenor is his continuous
sheet anchor. I prefer Lord Suffield, as the fruits are more shapely,
and up to the present on my forty sixteen-year-old trees they remain
healthy and clean. Stirling Castle is also a great favourite, but, being
a tree of slow growth, it not only (like Lord Suffield) requires a free
stock but may be planted closer than many others. Of course, both
these Apples also do well on the Paradise, but for market growing I
prefer the former. This year Potts’ Seedling, another sterling variety,
has been a failure, and I am of the opinion the failure has been solely
due to insufficient sun last season. The more vigorous trees have not
only been quite barren but the fruit on those more matured has been
much short of its true character. Here Warner’s King has failed through
the same cause, the trees making far too much growth for bearing after
such conditions. Bramley Seedling has likewise had no chance this
year, but from what I saw of it at Mr. Merryweather’s Southwell
nurseries, this most certainly is an Apple that I shall not willingly
discard.

Following such a summer as the present these two grand Apples
will, I expect, next year amply compensate. After ten years’ fair trial
I am quite out of heart with Worcester Pearmain, but I am glad to
find, with a more congenial home in the sunny south it continues to
give satisfaction. It crops far too lightly for market purposes in this
neighbourhood. Just noticing that Beurrd de I’Assomption, Souvenir du
Congr^s, Marie Louise, and Marie Louise d’Uccle Pears have done best
on the wall, and that the latter with Williams’ Bon Chretien and the
Hessle have done best in the open, I shall at present conclude, leaving
a few further remarks on Apples to a future occasion. — Joseph
Witherspoon.

Scarcity of Dessert Apples — Benoni.

Amongst fruiterers in the southern towns there has been for the
past few weeks a great demand for good dessert Apples. Quarrendens
and Irish Peach were soon over. The last-named is not much cared for,
being too soft and not bright enough in appearance. No matter how
good in quality an Apple may be, if it has not colour as well it does not
^^th favour in the market. Growers for sale have not in the past
paid nearly as much attention to dessert varieties as they have to those
belonging to the kitchen section. The result is that where really good
cooking Apples could be bought for Is, 6d. per bushel, dessert sorts were

fetching 6s. for the same quantity. A large grower and dealer had to
commence selling his Blenheims and King of the Pippins three weeks
ago. Even Cellini has been in great demand. All the Worcester Pear-
mains and Lady Sudeley were snapped up at once. A variety named
Nanny Apple meets with mqch favour. Dr. Hogg describes it as being
found about Havant and other districts in West Sussex and the borders
of Hampshire. It is an Apple deserving attention ; it has a bright
cheek and is really good in flavour. Dr. Hogg says it is in use during
October. This year it was used in August — another proof of the
peculiarity of the season. Pineapple Russet deserves more attention
than it receives ; it has a flavour peculiarly its own. The tree is a
straggling grower, and does not fruit freely until it attains some age.

There is a splendid opening for an enterprising person to plant
dessert Apples to follow the earlies and be out of the way of the usual
autumn and winter kinds, such as Cox’s Orange Pippin. One of the
best dessert Apples that I know [for filling the blank in late summer is
Benoni, the American variety figured last week. With me it carried an
extremely heavy crop of handsome fruit. In shape it resembles well
grown fruit of King of Pippins, but is perhaps rather broader at the
base while it is heavily striped with red on a yellow ground. It was
ready to gather this year early in August. The fruit is crisp yet sweet,
in fact it has almost all the properties required in a dessert Apple.
The habit of growth is of the right kind, upright, yet vigorous. It is
just the sort to plant numerously in a limited space, and with a prospect
of a good return for capital and labour expended. — E. Molyneux.

FERTILISERS AND FEEDING STUFFS BILL.

The following correspondence has been sent to us on the above
measure, and we place the letters before our readers. There are
obviously two sides to the question, and both of them important : —

30, Wood Street, Cheapside, London, E.C.

21st August, 1893.

Sir, — As Solicitor for the Nursery and Seed Trade Association
(Limd.), which was formed for the protection of their trades, I have
been requested to inquire whether the “ Fertilisers and Feeding Stuffs
Bill,” which has been before the Standing Committee of Trade, is likely
to become law this session, and whether it applies to horticultural
manures. If the latter is the case, I am instructed to point out to you
that such manures are sold by the wholesale and retail seedsmen,
florists, and nurserymen in packets, varying in price from 6d. to £1, in
the same condition as they receive the same from the manufacturers of
such manures.

If the Bill does apply to such horticultural manures as sold in
packets, and every retailer is bound to give a certificate according to
the first section of the Act, please permit me to point out that the
trouble in so doing will be so great that it must put an end to the
retail packet trade. I am also instructed to inquire whether it is not
possible that the Act can be amended by providing that the certificate
by the retailer shall be dispensed with if the packets are sold with the
name and trade mark of the manufacturer thereon.

It will be impossible for a retailer of such packets to have them
analysed at his own cost.

I enclose you the names and addresses of the President and Com¬
mittee of the Nursery and Seed Trade Association (Limd.), and I am
requested to ask whether you are willing to receive a small deputation
from them upon the subject in question if the proposed Act of Parlia¬
ment is intended to include horticultural manures. Your reply will be
esteemed a favour. — I am. Sir, Your Obedt. Servant, Charles Butcher,

The President of The Board of Agriculture,

4, Whitehall Place, S.W.

Board of Agriculture, 4, Whitehall Place, London, S.W
24th August, 1893.

No. 23,877.

Sir, — I am directed by the Board of Agriculture to advert to your
letter of the 2l8t inst., addressed to the President on behalf of the
Nursery and Seed Trade Association, and in reply I am to say that the
President was inclined to view with favour a proposal to exclude sales
of very small quantities of horticultural manures, say not exceeding half
a hundredweight, from operation of the Fertilisers and Feeding Stuffs
Bill ; but the general feeling of the Standing Committee, to which the
Bill was referred, was so distinctly adverse to any such limitation that
an amendment moved in that direction was negatived without a
division.

The Board have reason to think that the matter will again be
brought forward at a later stage of the Bill, and in that event the
matter will certainly command very careful consideration at the Presi¬
dent’s hands. In the circumstance the Board do not think it is necessary
that the Association should be put to the trouble of personal attendance.
They are well aware of the importance attached in many quarters to
secure such limitation of the operation of the Bill as is above suggested,
and the fact that the Association concur in thinking that some such
arrangement is necessary will be kept fully in mind. — I am, Sir, Your
Obedient Servant, T. H. Elliott, Secretary,

Charles Butcher, Esq., 30, Wood Street, Cheapside, E.C.

[This measure, brought forward by the President of the Agricultural
Department (Mr. Gardner), was on Wednesday, Sept. 6th, revised by the
Grand Committee of the House of Lords, Viscount Cross in the chair.

September 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

243

Mr. Gardner watched the proceedings. On the motion of the Lord
Chancellor it was agreed that the seller of any artificial fertiliser shall
state in the warranty he will have to give under the Bill that the per¬
centages of nitrogen, phosphates, and potash contained in the product
are “ at least ” what he has promised. On behalf of the Agricultural
Department, the Earl of Kibblesdale proposed a new sub-section giving
middlemen the same rights against wholesale dealers as retail buyers
will have against them. This was unanimously agreed to, and several
minor changes having been made, the Bill was returned to the House.]

A DAY AT BUNYARDS’.

Readers of Blackmore in general, and those connected with fruit in
particular, are well aware that in the Medway Valley there are many
acres of land whereon fruit is grown for the market. Times and manners
have changed somewhat since “ Alice Lorraine ” was written, and it is
quite possible that there are no Martin Lovejoys now to be found in
that fertile vale, but as good fruit is grown as Martin grew, and there is
far more of it. Close to the particular portion of the valley where
Maidstone lies are the various nurseries of Messrs. Bunyard & Co., and
they are a very remarkable example of the law of development which
has affected fruit growing in England. The principal nursery adjoins
Barming station on the L.C. and D. Railway. Mention of this line is
generally accompanied by a gird at its directors ; but I refrain from
following the example, not because I have not experienced hard seats
and slow time, but because it would be a waste of space. 1 can only say
that if you are going to pay the Allington nurseries a visit book to
Barming from Victoria or the City on some Thursday morning when
there is an extra attractive number of the Journal to study, then perhaps
the weary time will be beguiled and the nurseries reached with the
natural sweetness of your disposition unsoured.

Barming is a quiet station, and there is no need for surprise if a
visitor finds that he has the whole platform to himself and the entire
staff to wish him a cheery good morning (as though he were in the habit
of going to B unyards’ every day) and take his ticket. If he crosses the
line and passes through a little swing gate he is in the nursery and
amongst the fruit at once. I suppose I need hardly say that this is an
improvement upon going to Maidstone and having to work back two or
three miles by road. This has been done, but never without a profound
and comprehensive disgust taking possession of the doer after the truth
had come home to him. Before the round of the nursery is completed
most people have had enough pedestrianism for a time without tacking
on the unnecessary miles. There are now about 100 acres, besides land
elsewhere under Strawberries and shrubs. Mr. George Bunyard is an
able and far-seeing man. He has kept himself on the front of the wave
which has swept ignorance and prejudice before it and taught that good
fruit can be grown in our own country as well as abroad. He has built
up a huge and prosperous business by sound knowledge, great yet prudent
enterprise, good work, and unwearied perseverance.

Allington without Mr. Bunyard can hardly be called itself, and my
visit happened to be paid when a temporary but distressing indisposition
prevented him from doing the honours of his nursery. But he has a
manager of admirable qualities in Mr. Buss, who is well fitted to take
command when his chief is hors de comiat. Incidentally I might
remark on the good spirit prevailing between employer and employed in
the Bunyard nurseries. “ I have first-rate men,” “ We have a first-rate
master.” Such are the expressions of mutual esteem and respect that
are heard ; and there is little doubt that the existence of these cordial
relations has much to do with the excellent qualities of the trees sent
out. Mr. Bunyard has set his heart on supplying the best material, and
his assistants do their best to support his wishes.

The Cordon-Standards.

In making a few jottings of the nursery and its contents, I will draw
attention first to a class of tree that has become very popular and grows
yearly in favour. “ Amateurs’ standards ” is the term by which the
trees are known at Allington. They might be called cordon-standards,
in their younger days at all events, for then they combine the two
systems. Most fruit growers are aware that the stems of standards on
the Crab stock are feathered for a year or two in the nurseries in order
to thicken them, and that eventually the shoots are removed. The
amateurs’ standards here referred to are budded on the Paradise stock,
and fruit spurs form on the stems, yielding produce while the head is
developing. It might almost be said that stem and head act as a brake
on each other. The branches have no tendency to become luxuriant
owing to the check imparted by the fruiting of the stem spurs. They
develop steadily and sturdily ; but when they have gained strength,
solidity, and maturity, the brake begins to act the other way, the stem
shoots weaken, and eventually they are cleared, leaving the standard
with a good head of fruiting branches. This is the theory of the matter,
and the practice well supports it. The trees are never staked. There
are great numbers of them standing up stiff and straight in different
parts of the nursery lined with fruit, and it is not surprising that
visitors take to them.

The “ Gridirons.”

The Bunyard gridirons are very different articles to those of the
ironmonger. They are dwarf trees with two horizontal shoots right and
left, from which spring uprights a foot or so apart. These are cordonised,
to coin a word, the side shoots being pinched and spurred so as to keep

the trees thin and admit abundance of air. There are plenty of these
fruiting freely, the Apples on the Paradise, and the Pears on the Quince,
many varieties being represented. Owners of villa gardens would find
such trees admirable for forming a dividing line between flower and
vegetable quarters, while in larger places they would play the part
which espaliers do now in some instances, coming in very useful for
the sides of wa'ks, and for filling up blanks on walls. This is an
excellent class of tree, not taking up a great amount of room, but giving
a little freer play for inherent energy than horizontal cordons.

Some Wonderful Maiden Peaches.

Mr. Bunyard’s practical manager takes great interest and pride in
his work, but I doubt if there is anything which he regards with greater
complacency than a large quarter of maiden Peaches. These young
trees, budded last year, have been stopped and have pushed about a
dozen shoots each, the whole framework covering a space 3 to 4 feet across
and high. They have made wonderful progress, and must have enormous
root power. The shoots are very stout and clean, and triple buds are
plentiful. It is not easy to credit that such strong planting material
could be evolved so quickly, but the facts are there. With good
management after planting the.e could very quickly be developed into
well furnished fruiting tr.es, and that at a first cost almost absurdly low.

Three Promising New Pears.

There were two new Pears fruiting well to which I would call
special attention, because from their seascn of maturity, fine appearance,
and good flavour they should prove valuable in private, and perhaps
also in market gardens. One is called Beurre Mortillet, and I find it
referred to as follows in the firm’s catalogue of last year : — “Very large;
exhibited very finely by Messrs. Veitch at Crystal Palace Show, 1890 ;
not yet proved ; very handsome.” It is proving to be an acquisition on
trial. It is ready in September and October, and has excellent quality.
The fruit is very large and richly coloured ; it is peculiar in appearance,
having very prominent fleshy folds at the stalk. But the second novelty.
Marguerite Marrillat, is still more promising. It is also, I understood, a
continental variety, introduced by the Chelsea firm. It is ready now,
and is very luscious and melting. It is very large, heavy, and brightly
coloured, ridgy, and uneven in outline. The variety bears freely, and
makes a fine cordon. It will be surprising if this does not become a
very popular Pear. It is finer in appearance than Williams’ Bon
Chretien, and does not “ go ” like that favourite sort. A third Pear
novelty worth mentioning is Dr. Jules Guyot. This has a Williams’
look about it, but is claimed to be an improvement on Bon ChrStien,
being larger, finer in appearance, and free from spotting.

The Newer Apples.

I may as well begin with Bismarck, for if I did not I should soon
drift into it. There is one stretch of about 2000 which is very impres¬
sive, the trees being vigorous and healthy, merging naturally, as is the
way of this grand variety, into a pyramidal habit. The planting bushes
are very fine. There is plenty of large and richly coloured fruit, but a
great deal of it has been almost cooked by the excessive heat. Lady
Sudeley is conspicuous by its upright, stay-at-home habit, and by its
peculiarity of bearing towards the tips of the shoots, requiring hardly
any pruning, merely thinning. It has borne its beautiful fruit well this
year. Wealthy is grand both in size and colour. A seedling of much
promise has been raised by crossing Cellini and Blenheim. It has large
fruit of the well-known Blenheim form and full of ruddy colour.
Young bushes are cropping well, and the fruit, I was informed, keeps
till after Christmas. Of another Apple which is under trial much can¬
not be said at present. It is a Tasmanian, sent over by a brother of Mr.
Mclndoe. It resembles Grenadier in growth and Bismarck, so it is said,
in fruit. It is so precocious that according to report it bears well on
wood of the previous year. Well, we shall see. May it realise the
rosiest anticipations, and prove to be another Bismarck.

The Older Apples — Trees and Fruit.

The firm showed at the Agricultural Hall what splendid exhibition
trim they are in this year, and they have some magnificent fruit still
to come. I am going to say a word about some of the most popular sorts,
here referring to the tree, there to the fruit. One batch of two-year-
old Potts’ Seedling, 6 to 7 feet high and furnished with stout side shoots,
numbers about a thousand, and there is about the same number in a
quarter of Gascoyne’s Seedling, standards, with fine heads developing.
Of standard Bramley’s there are about 3000, all excellent trees, and
it is interesting to note this grand orchard variety fruiting very well in
a young state on the Paradise, but it will not do this on some heavier
soils. Two-years-old Yellow Ingestries — or Summer Golden Pippin as
it is called in Kent — is largely grown both as a bush and standard.
There are thousands of Ecklinvilles ; this is not the great Irishman’s
best year, the fruit being scabbed and specked, but our Kentish friends
know its great merits too well to desert it. Pyramidal Grenadiers are
grand trees, and the fruit is enormous in size as well as being perfectly
clean. As grown at Maidstone it is a high class Apple.

Lane’s Prince Albert only needs mention, for it is invariably good,
but planters should notask for this as a standard. It is naturally suited
for bush culture and to get it up is worked on the Goff. Colonel Vaughan
is fruiting finely as a cordon. The fruit is of unusual size, beautiful in
colour, very juicy and refreshing. It is a dessert variety worth growing.
Frogmore Prolific is in admirable order, and so are New Hawthorndeu

244

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 14, 1893.

and King of Tompkin’a County. Mention of the last two reminds me
how widely they differ in their adaptability to cordon culture. New
Hawthornden, with Grenadier, Lord Suffield, Stirling Castle and others,
make admirable cordons, but the King will not stoop to so modest a
position. Cox’s Pomona and Baumann’s Red Winter Reinette display the
most brilliant of colours. Two high-class dessert varieties which ought
to be better known are Rosemary Russet and Egremont Russet. The
former comes in with Sturmer and has delicious flavour, while the latter
has soft yellow flesh of very agreeable quality. Worcester Pearmain is
in magnificent condition. There never seems to be enough of this
variety to meet the market demands, and 8s. a bushel is the tempting
return which two well-known growers have received. Market men are
taking this hint and planting extensively. Golden Spire, Queen Caroline,
Lord Derby, M^re de Manage, and Washington form an excellent
quintette to finish with, and all are finely represented. Of the last
named, with its beautiful appearance and good flavour, there are some
splendid pyramids and it also succeeds as a standard.

Stocks — Manure and Weeds.

There have been some complaints of the stocks not doing well this
year, but, despite the drought, those at the Allington Nurseries are
in splendid condition. The Nonesuch has done better than the English
Paradise. There is a piece of 35,000 recently budded that forms a
striking sight. The ground is well fed, A great deal more value is
attached to cloth bits (not shoddy) than most people would give, and
a far higher price is paid for it than the majority would be inclined
to part with. It is a sustaining and lasting manure. As to weeds,
Mr. Buss’s proud claim that a barrowload could not be found in the
whole 100 acres was readily admitted. The land is thoroughly clean,
and the whole place in admirable order. Good soil, kept free from
weeds and judiciously fed, is one of the secrets of Mr. Bunyard’s extra¬
ordinary success. — W. P. W.

[Mr. Bunyard has sent us very fine samples of Kentish fruit, with
others of the same varieties grown under less favourable conditions.
The former may be taken to represent profit in fruit culture, the latter
the reverse — the produce it may be expected of exhausted trees that
cumber the ground.]

SUBURBAN SPARROWS.

“Davies Duffryn” (page 214), wishes to know how sparrows behave
in the suburbs of towns. The cheeky birds in my garden are quite
opposite to those in Mr. J. Witherspoon’s. His sparrows appear to be
pets, but mine are decidedly pests. They eat, or pull in pieces, what
they ought to leave, and leave untouched what they ought to eat. They
appear disgusted with caterpillars, and to have no taste for aphides.
They attack yellow Crocuses voraciously, and either do not like to sec
two flowers open at the same time, or prefer seeing the petals littered
on the path. It is the same with Primroses, which the scavengers will
not let alone.

They play havoc with the buds of fruit trees of all kinds — “ a worm
in them 1 ’’ say their sentimental friends. So far as I am concerned it
might as well stop there as the buds be torn off ; but I do not believe
in this worm theory. It seems a handy refuge for the destitute who
do not know what else to say. Were there worms in the Crocus petals ?

I bought four dozen young fruit bushes about ten years ago, and
have certainly not had 4 lbs. of fruit from them during the whole of
that time. If the scoundrel sparrows do not tear off all the buds in
spring they take all the fruit that appears long before it is ready for use.
It is wrong and cruel to shoot the birds, say their warm defenders, and
fruit should be netted against them. Then is it not wrong to deprive
them of food and starve them to death ? I should prefer to be shot
quickly than starved to death slowly ; but we cannot shoot in small
suburban gardens, where the sparrows appear to be alike masters and
scourges.

They take away filth, says their champion. Are flowers and fruit
filth ? These they assuredly take or destroy, and they do not interfere
with caterpillars and insect pests. Mr. Witherspoon is no doubt a very
clever man, but he clearly does not understand suburban sparrows, and
if he had them to deal with I suspect he would not care in the least
who diminished their numbers.

There are also, as I know, thousands of sparrows not of the caterpillar¬
eating kind in the country, but they devour Peas and grain voraciously,
and strip fruit trees and bushes of buds. They are an intolerable pest
in many places, and a price has to be put on their heads. Even bird
lovers and humanitarians who see this depredation of the shoals of
birds raise no protest against the practice any more than they would
against killing rats and mice if they did half so much mischief as
the sparrows.

If these could be evenly distributed all over the country there might
be less to complain about, but I am inclined even then to imagine that
a number could be disposed of with advantage. I have read somewhere
of a happy time when every rood of land maintained its man, and am
inclined to think that one sparrow to the rood would be ample, and that
one could be very well dispensed with. My unfortunate share is
approximately about 200 to that extent of land, and I should be well
pleased for Mr. Witherspoon to have the whole of them if I were sure
they would change their tactics with the change of scene, or under the
good influence of his well-behaved pets, for I do not wish him any harm.
— An Afflicted Suburban Amateur.

The Weather in London.— Fine dry weather still continues in
the metropolis and the south generally. Saturday last, however, was
decidedly cooler than it had hitherto been for several days. Since then
the nights have been rather cold. At the time of going to press it
is bright and clear.

- Durham, Northumberland, and Newcastle Horti¬
cultural Society. — We are informed that the officials of this
Society sent a beautiful wreath on the occasion of the funeral of Lady
Armstrong, at Rothbury, on the 6th inst. Mr. Elliot and Mr. Bertrand,.
Lord Armstrong’s head gardeners at Jesmond and Cragside respectively,
were among the chief mourners. Lady Armstrong took great interest
in gardening, and possessed considerable knowledge of plants and their
culture.

- Honours to a French Horticulturist. — We understand

that Mons. Edouard Andr6 has been appointed as Chevalier of the
Order of Leopold. M. Andrd is a landscape gardener, a traveller,
a botanist, a Professor in the National School of Horticulture at
Versailles, and one of the editors of the “ Revue Horticole.”

- Rev. Leonard Blomefield. — The death of the Rev. Leonard!

Blomefield, who was the oldest Fellow of the Linnean Society, took
place recently. Mr. Blomefield was in bygone days known as Leonard
Jenyns, he having assumed the name Blomefield at a later period,
Mr. Blomefield, who was elected a Fellow of the Linnean Society so far
back as 1822, was ninety years of ago at the time of his death.

- An International Exposition, it is stated, will be held

in the city of San Francisco, State of California, beginning on January
1st, 1894, and continuing for six months. The classification will
include Department A — Agriculture, food and its accessories, forestry
and forest products, agricultural machinery and appliances, horti¬
culture, viticulture, and pomology, Mr. M. H. de Young is the
Director-General and President of the Executive Committee,

- Cheap Apples. — Fruit is said to be so plentiful in Lincoln¬
shire this year that growers are experiencing the greatest difficulty in
disposing of the produce of their orchards. The markets are so glutted,
especially with Apples, that the sales in many cases have not realised
sufficient to pay the expenses of sending to market. Plums also have
been a bad trade, and those that were damaged at all by wasps have
been practically rendered unsaleable. The average price of Apples is
about 2d. per stone. This, however, applies to inferior fruit ; the better
samples realising fair prices.

- Pansies. — Is it generally known how rapidly Pansies repro¬
duce ? I broke up an old bed a fortnight ago, and made a new one with
the seedlings I found in it. Some of these are already in flower, and
the bed promises in another fortnight to be a mass of bloom. Of course
they have been having as much water and almost as much sun as they
could possibly require. — A. C.

- Cheap Muscat Grapes. — It is stated on good authority that

fair samples of Cannon Hall Muscat Grapes were sold in a fruiterer’s
shop in the metropolis the other day for 8d. per pound. The Grapes
had been grown in Jersey, and although the bunches “ were rather
small,” it is said that the berries were large, “ the colour fairly good,
and the flavour well developed.”

- Improving the Quality of Fruits. — Nothing is more

common, in conventions of fruit growers, than to hear one man say
of a certain variety that it is tasteless and worthless, while the follow¬
ing speaker may laud that variety as one of the highest flavour and
best quality. The truth is, says “ Meehan’s Monthly,” that ripening
fruit is an art, which is only to be learned by intelligent experience.
Some kinds of fruit require to be gathered a little before ripe, in order
to produce the highest flavour, while others require to be dead ripe on
the trees before they are gathered. Again, to get the best quality some
require to be ripened in a dark and cool place, while others require a
warmer and lighter situation. All this has to be learnt by experience,
and one of the pleasures of amateur gardening is to study these points,
with the view of the production of the best class of fruit.

September 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

246

- Gardening Appointment. — Mr. R. Griffiths, from Glewston

Court Gardens, has been appointed gardener to Miss Bernard, Over-Ross
House, Ross, Herefordshire.

- Plum Culture in California. — Some people in this country

have but a very faint impression of the immensity of the fruit interest
in California. Take, for instance, the Plum, One single grower, says
the “ Hanford (California) Journal,” has 544 acres planted with the
Prune variety. On this tract alone are 66,000 trees.

- Gardening in India.— It is stated “that Mr. J. M. Henry,

for the last fourteen years Superintendent of the Baroda State Gardens,
has now been transferred wholly to the landscape department, and will
devote the whole of his time to that work, under the direction of Mr.
W. Goldring, who remains in England for eighteen months before
returning to India to carry out the many new parks and pleasure
grounds H.H. the Gaekwar contemplates making throughout his exten-
jive territory for his people.”

- Potash and Peach Yellows.— Mr. B. Von HerfE, 93,

Nassau Street, N.Y,, contends that a want of potash in the soil produces
frequent and disastrous results to the Peach grower. All diseases or
any disease troubling the Peach grower can be found in soils abounding
in potash ; and, moreover, it is so well known that the manifestation
known as Peach yellows, and similar manifestations in many other trees,
are produced by root fungus, that there is no need to call in the lack of
any mineral ingredient to account for them. When it comes to the
question of a good fertiliser for the Peach, kainit or potash salts may
take a place among valuable articles. Anything that may aid in
checking fungus growth may be useful aside from fertilising properties,
Kainit may do this. Even boiling water poured freely around the roots
of fungus-infested trees has been found excellent.

- Diseases of Gloxinias. — In France Gloxinias have been

considerably injured by various diseases. The exact nature of the
troubles does not seem to be very well understood, as some are sup¬
posed to be due to fungi, and others to bacilli. The remedies proposed
are not always efficient, but good results appear to follow the use of
some of them. The presence of so much disease can partially be
explained by the fact that when the young plants are moved from the
propagating house to their flowering quarters the sudden change in
temperature weakens them and lowers their powers of resisting disease.
The change should be made as gradual as possible. Another suggestion,
according to the “ Garden and Forest,” is found in the fact that
Gloxinias which are grown in new houses, or in houses before un¬
occupied by them, are quite free from disease, while their successful
cultivation is an utter impossibility in houses which have been filled
by them year after year. Great care in growing only healthy plants
will undoubtedly soon become a very important factor in their culti¬
vation, for these plants now appear to be the prey of an ever-increasing
number of enemies.

- Sand-binding Grass. — The Marram Grass (Psamma arenaria),

the seed of which was first introduced into the colony of Victoria by the
Government Botanist, Baron von Mueller in 1883, has been proved to be
the most eflEective sand stay ever planted. Practical evidence can be
seen of its value in the miles of sandhills now reclaimed by the Marram
plantations, sown under the direction of Mr. S. Avery, the park ranger.
So complete has been the reclamation of the lands, says a New Zealand
paper, that, where a few years ago not a sign of vegetation was to be
seen, there now exists a succulent Grass, eagerly devoured by cattle, and
growing to a height of 4 feet. Marram Grass is practically indestructible
— burning, cutting, or eating off only makes it thrive — whilst in exposed
shifting sand it propagates as surely as in the most sheltered position.
The Grass for transplanting has been supplied by the Port Fairy Borough
Council not only to the Governments of Victoria and New South Wales,
but to numerous municipal bodies and private individuals in all the
Australian colonies. New Zealand, and Tasmania, and in no single
instanee has it failed to thrive. The Grass is supplied at the actual cost
of digging, packing, and carting to the wharf or railway station. Port
Fairy, which does not exceed 253. per ton. The following directions
how to plant Marram Grass have been prepared by the park ranger : —
The Grass to be planted in rows at a distance of 6 feet apart, the space
between the plants to be at least 2 feet. The depth to which each plant
is put into the sand depends on the nature of the sand. If in sand not
likely to drift for two or three months, 9 inches will be deep enough ; but
in very loose and shifting sand the Grass should be placed from 12 inches
to 15 inches deep. A “plant” consists of as much Grass as a man can
conveniently hold in his hand.

- Death of Mr. Charles Verdier, — Rosarians and others

interested in horticulture will regret to hear of the death of Mr. Charles
F. Verdier, which occurred a week or two ago. A gentleman who knew
Mr. Verdier for forty years writes that “ he has died ripe in years and
honours.”

- Species of Oaks. — According to an American contemporary,

“ Prof. H. M. Ward states that there are probably more than 300 species
of Oaks (Quercus), of which the majority belong to North America,
Europe, China, Japan and other parts of Asia, There are none in
Africa south of the Mediterranean region, nor in South America or
Australia. Some remarkable species are found in the Himalayas, and
many in the Malayan Archipelago.”

- Destroying Weeds. — Several correspondents have written

to “Meehans’ Monthly” recently, as to how to destroy noxious weeds.
Poison Ivy, Dock, Canada Thistle, and Dandelions are the subjects of
these varied inquiries. Intelligent gardeners know that no plant can
live long without leaves. If, therefore, a plant is cut off to the ground
soon after making leaves in the spring, it is generally destroyed at once ;
but sometimes another or second growth will appear, of a more or less
weak character, and if this is again cut, the plant will surely die.
Nothing is easier than to destroy these weeds when this principle is
kept in mind . The writer of this paragraph has known a whole half acre of
Canada Thistle entirely eradicated by having a boy cut them beneath
the ground with a knife early in spring. Very few produced leaves the
second time, but these were again cut as soon as perceived, and the
result was to eventually destroy every plant.

- English Carnations in America. — Writing from Wellesley,

Massachusetts, to an American contemporary, “ T. D. H.” says : — The
English type of Carnation has failed in every trial here, undoubtedly
owing to the marked dissimilarity of climate and also to the fact that
in each country varieties suited to a special plan of culture have been
selected. In that country the plants are layered in the autumn,
wintered in a cold frame, and grown in pots the following season for
the next winter’s bloom. Here also selection has been in the line of a
particular mode of cultivation, but the plant is different and charac¬
teristically American, Cuttings are rooted in January, planted out of
doors in May, and are in bloom by the second week in July. I recently
had the pleasure of seeing a splendid collection of Miss Fisher, white ;
Hector, scarlet ; and Nobscot, scarlet, in bloom and loaded with flower
buds, while along with these were another lot of imported varieties
layered last autumn, which were very much later and did not look at
all promising. There are no good rose-coloured varieties as yet, but two
on trial look encouraging. These are Ada Byron and Nicholson. An
elegant yellow-flaked variety also promises to be a good summer bloomer.
If neatly staked, as these plants were, they make a fine appearance, and
at the same time the flowers are kept from injury by heavy showers of
rain.

- Apples in America. — The following extract from a trans¬
atlantic contemporary will give readers an idea as to what the Apple
crop is in America this year: — “The prospective crop of Apples,
commercially considered, as indicated by returns of our correspondents
for July, will be light, and in many sections a complete failure. The
high returns in June from districts then in bloom have been materially
lowered for July, the set has been poor, and the drop, still continuing,
severe. Thus in Maine and New York the percentages are lowered
twenty-two and nineteen points respectively. These States are by far
the most important of the eastern Apple district, and failure there makes
the sustained percentages of New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Con¬
necticut of little significance as regards surplus production, though it
means much to successful growers in the latter States. Large reductions
are also shown in Vermont, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. In New
Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland a fair to good crop is expected. The
percentage in the latter State, however, has been reduced sixteen points
by the dropping of immature fruit, and is liable to still further reduction
from the same cause. Virginia has sustained her percentage, and will
probably have half a crop. In the Ohio Valley and Missouri fruit
belt things have gone from bad to worse. The frequency of the word
‘ failure ’ in the notes of the correspondents throughout these sections
ominously emphasises the exceedingly low condition, as shown by the
percentages. Michigan has declined twenty points since the June
report. The high condition of Apples in the Pacific coast region still
continues, and a good crop is confidently expected. The fruit is
dropping somewhat in Oregon, where the decline since June, though
slight, has been greater than in Washington and California.”

246

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t September 14, 1855,

- Prices for Potatoes. — It would appear that iu some parts

of the country farmers are obtaining fair prices for their Potato crops.
An auction of 150 acres of growing Potatoes was recently held at the
Stewponey Hotel, in the Stourbridge district, when 9 acres of Bruce and
Magnum Bonum Potatoes realised £17 5s. per acre, these being offered
by Mrs. Giles of Ash wood ; and llj- acres of Magnum Bonum and
kidney Potatoes, belonging to Mr. T. Dorrell of Enville, made £17 per
acre; and 11 acres of Magnum and Stourbridge Glory Potatoes, belong¬
ing to Mr. G. Elwill, £15 Ss. per acre.

^ - The Evening Primrose as a Vegetable. — The “Lyon

Horticole ” has a long and interesting chapter on the great value as a
vegetable of the common ffinothera biennis, the very common weed
known as Evening Primrose. Though introduced, it says, from America
as early as 1614, it has only recently been known as a kitchen
vegetable. It says that it is becoming wild in France, and is known by
the common name of Donkey Flower. It questions the accepted origin
of the name, and contends that the botanical name is rather derived
from onagra, and not, as generally supposed, because the roots exhale
the odour of wine. From the shape of its roots it is called in France
the Leg of St. Anthony. However, it is as a vegetable that we have to
ilo with it. If the seeds are sown as soon as they ripen young plants
grow at once, and the plant throws up flower shoots early next year.
This is the case with all plants known as biennials ; but if we save the
seed and sow it in the spring at the same time as we do Salsafy,
Parsnips, and similar biennials, the plants make roots only that season
intjtead of flowers. The author of the paper compares the roots with
t'le Salsafy in value. It is stored away for use from November to April.
Under good culture, it states, the roots develop to quite a large size. It
also states that it is far superior as a vegetable to the recently intro¬
duced Stachys from Japan.

- Boot Fungus. — Intelligent raisers of trees and plants muse

be familiar with the work of root fungus, and with its effects on the
foliage. In most cases the result is to turn the leaves from deep
green to a golden yellow, as in the Peach, the Norway Spruce, and
the White Pine. In the Carnation the glaucous grey green is changed
to a sea green, and so on with other things. The rapidity with which
the mycelium, or “ spawn,” as gardeners term it, travels under ground
is wonderful. In a bed of Carnations planted out in early spring for
removal in the fall to the Carnation house the writer saw a circle con¬
taining a few less than 100 plants infected, and which had to be
rejected. This fungus had started from some half -decayed wood, and
then had radiated some 15 feet to the circumference of the circle infest¬
ing every Carnation root in its march, and this 15 feet had been all
developed in four months certainly, and probably much less judging by
the fact that the leaf tint had all been completely changed. Just how
the change is effected so as to give the yellows to the Peach, Spruce^
Pine, and other plants, is not known. No trace of the original fungus
can be found in the woody structure, yet the wood impregnated with
some deleterious substance is capable of carrying the disease to other
plants by inoculation. But the fact remains that root fungus is the
primary cause. — (“ Meehans’ Monthly.”)

- A Crop op Fine Apples. — Wells Palace and some part of

the grounds are surrounded by a moat and high wall. Against a sunny
portion of the latter, and within a few feet of though well above the
water, Mr. J. B. Payne, the head gardener in charge of the place^
some years since planted several Apple and Pear trees. From the
first these trees thrived and fruited well, and I have seen several good
crops of fine fruit on them. Apple Peasgood’s Nonesuch has repeatedly
been very fine, but this year the crop quite eclipsed anything seen
on the tree before, and, as far as my experience goes, anything of
the kind ever seen elsewhere. Early in August I counted sixty-two
fruits on the tree, every one of which were quite equal to taking
prizes at leading shows in the west of England. Becently Mr. Payne
exhibited twelve of the fruits at Bath, and it may safely be asserted,
nothing else in a generally excellent Show attracted so much atten¬
tion. At one time I saw not less than a dozen policemen discussing
the merits of this particular dish of fruit, and the member of the
force who happened to be in charge of that end of the tent was
quite delighted when a medal, in addition to the first prize, was
awarded to Mr. Payne. Those twelve fruits weighed in the aggregate
15 lbs., the heaviest being 16 inches in circumference, and weighing
22 ozs. All, in addition to being large and well formed, were richly
coloured. Mr. Payne has good cause to be proud of his production.
— W. iGGULDEN.

- School Gardens. — I was much interested in Mr. Wright’s

article on this subject (page 201). He correctly remarks that it is not a
“novel idea,” for I well remember thirty-seven years ago the school¬
master of the national schools at the village of Bocester in Staffordshire,
Mr. Jenkins, suggesting to some of us lads that we should make flower
borders round the playgrounds. As space was limited and many wished
to take part in the work it was arranged that a lad of the “ first class
(no “ standards ” then) should make and keep the portion allotted to hira,.
having his “ chum ” for assistant. I remember it gave some of us a good
deal of pleasure, and brightened up the barren yards during the summer..
Nor were the girls forgotten, for we made their borders too. About a.
dozen of us each had a plot of ground in a field for growing vegetables^
but there was not any provision for instruction^ so we were dependent
for this on our respective “ dads.” Truly this is very meagre compared
with the splendid facilities afforded to the present school boys of Surrey,,
still it was a step in the right direction ; and probably one of the earliest
attempts to instil a love for gardening into the minds of the youths of
the working class, and as such is, I think, worthy of being placed on.
record. — T. S., Ilcthbury Hill.

CLERODENDRON TRICHOTOMUM,

When flowers of this fine hardy Clerodendron were exhibited by
Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea, at the recent Agricultural Hall
Show they attracted much attention, and the Floral Committee of the
Boyal Horticultural Society awarded a first-class certificate. As a rule
the blooms appear in September, and, as will be seen by referring to the
illustration (fig. 35), they are produced in terminal cymes. They are
white with a reddish purple calyx, and are fragrant.

Clerodendron trichotomum is native of Japan, and was introduced
many years ago, but it does not appear to be generally grown. It is a
vigorous growing shrub, frequently attaining a height of 8 feet in
sheltered positions. The leaves are dark green and comparatively large,
being about 6 inches in length and proportionately wide. This species
is sometimes described as a greenhouse plant, but it is quite hardy, and
forms a striking feature in a shrubbery at this period of the year.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

September 12th.

There were comparatively few exhibits at this meeting, and the
attendance was not very large. Fruit was, however, well represented,
and there were some good collections of Boses and Dahlias. Orchids
were likewise fairly well shown.

Fruit Committee. — Present : P. Crowley, Esq. (in the chair) j
Messrs. John Lee, T. F. Bivers, Harrison Weir, G. Bunyard, J. Cheal,
W. Warren, A. Dean, H. Balderson, J. Smith, G. Norman, W. H. Divers,
G. Wythes, T. J. Saltmarsh, and J. Wright.

Mr. W. H. Divers, The Gardens, Ketton Hall, Stamford, sent a seed¬
ling Peach raised from the Byron Nectarine, fruits medium sized, round
and mottled like Grosse Mignonne, a freestone of excellent quality,
ripening several days later than Lord Palmerston. The variety is
named Duchess of York. An award of merit was unanimously awarded,
another year’s trial being thought advisable before granting a first-class
certificate. Messrs. Bobert Veitch & Son, Exeter, sent their new Peach
Late Devonian, rather small dark coloured fruits grown in the open air
and not in the best condition, some being distinctly over-ripe. No
award was made. Mr. J. Miller, The Gardens, Buxley Lodge, sent
dishes of splendid Peaches grown against an open wall, and a cultural
commendation was unanimously awarded.

Mr. Walter Weir, Acton Park Gardens, Wrexham, sent bunches of
his new Grape Cape Muscat, berries black, ovoid, of good size, and well
coloured. It is a very refreshing Grape with a combination of Muscat
and Black Hamburgh flavour, and the crackling skin of Lady Downe’s
Seedling. The seed was received by Mr. Weir from the Cape, hence the
name given to the variety. The bunch somewhat resembles Alicante.
An award of merit was unanimously awarded, and still higher honours
may be in store if better specimens should be forthcoming.

Mr. J. B. Payne, Palace Gardens, Wells, sent twelve magnificent
fruits of Peasgood’s Nonesuch Apple, gathered from a tree trained
against a cold, damp stone wall supporting a terrace, aspect south-east.
The tree has been planted seven years, and covers a space 17 feet wide
and 14 feet high. The crop this year was thinned to sixty-two fruits,
none weighing less than 1 lb. The fruits sent would much exceed
that weight, and were beautifully coloured. No other kind of fruit had
been found to succeed against the wall. A bronze Banksian medal was
unanimously recommended.

Messrs. W. E. Browne & Son, The Nursery, Wells, sent a dish of very
large Apples named Monster Pippin, for a certificate, but it was
determined to be Warner’s King ; also a dish of Bartlett's Glory
a splendid Apple resembling Cellini in appearance, but much larger
and firmer, six fruits weighing 7 lbs. ; in season from November till
January. It was raised by a market gardener, whose name it bears
(award of merit).

September 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

247

Messrs. T. Rivers & Son sent a box ot Golden Transparent Plum, a
seedling of good size and delicious flavour, a freestone, full of honey¬
like juice. It was regarded as the richest yellow Plum ripening at
this season of the year, and a first-class certificate was awarded.

Dr. P. H. Emerson sent a collection of Melons grown in the open
ground in a sheltered garden near Broadstairs, Kent. Belgrade
(Cantaloup) was small, but better in quality than many that have been
before the Committee as grown under glass. A vote of thanks was
accorded, also to Mr. W, H. Pitcher, Albury House, Surbiton, for firm
fleshed Tomatoes, and to Mrs. Crawford, Gal ton, Reigate (Mr. W. Shaw-
grove, gardener), for ripe and good second crop fruits of Strawberries
Black Prince and Vicomtesse Hericart de Thury. Mr. Shawgrove also
sent seven Pears, grand fruits of Doyenn4 Boussoch, Beurr6 d’Anjou,
Marie Louise, Beurr6 Diel, Mar(5chal de Cour, Doyenne du Comice, and

the ordeal at Chiswick as good croppers with handsome tubers of high,
quality when cooked.

A number of coloured illustrations of fruits by Mr. Oster, draughts¬
man to Messrs. J. & A. Cheal, were placed on the table. Some of the
fruits were very well represented, and with practice Mr. Oster may
develop into an excellent fruit artist.

Floral Committee. — Present : W. Marshall, Esq. (in the chair) ;
Messrs. Chas. T. Druery, H. B. May, R. Dean, G. Stevens, Frank Ross,
J. D. Pawle, J. T. Bennett Poe, Charles Noble, and the Rev. H. H.
D’Ombrain.

Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, sent a collection of Cactus and
decorative Dahlias comprising many new varieties of merit. The best
amongst these were W. H. Myers, Duke of Clarence, Mrs. Douglas,.
Mrs. Hawkins, Maid of Kent, Princess Christian, Robert Maher, Claribel’^

Fig. 35.— CLERODENDRON TRICHOTOMUM.

Fondante de Cuerne. A cultural commendation was unanimously
awarded. Rev. J. H. Brown, Bedstone Rectory, Shropshire, had splendid
fruits of Lane’s Prince Albert Apples, not in the best of colour, but
unusually large, well meriting the cultural commendation recorded.
Mr. W. Bannister, The Gardens, Cote House, Westbury-on-Trym, sent
twelve dishes of Pears, well grown, but not nearly so large as Mr. Shaw-
grove’s (cultural commendation).

Messrs. T. Rivers & Son staged twenty-five dishes of fruit, including
Apples, Pears, Plums, and Peaches, very fine specimens indeed, some
being seedlings, and a silver Knightian medal was unanimously recom¬
mended ; also to Messrs. John Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, who sent
ninety dishes of Apples and Pears, the leading varieties being represented
in a bright and good condition.

Messrs. Sutton & Sons sent splendid Onions of the variety Al, which
received the highest number of marks of merit in the Chiswick trials,
and a first-class certificate was at once awarded ; also for dishes of their
Windsor Castle and Triumph Potatoes, after passing with credit through

Kentish Invicta, and Cannell’s Gem. An award of merit was adjudged
for the last named variety, and a small silver Banksian medal was
recommended for the whole. Messrs. W. Paul «& Sons, Waltham
Cross, sent a charming collection of Roses, including ten boxes of
blooms, as well as various miscellaneous bunches. The flowers were
delightfully fresh for the time of year, and it is not often that one sees
such fine blooms in September. Particularly good were L’Ideal, La
France, Clio, Pride of Waltham, Mrs. Jowitt, Grace Darling, Danmark,
Star of Waltham, W. A. Richardson, White Lady, Ella Gordon, Eclair,
Marie Van Houtte, and Duke of York, the last named being a new China
Rose. A silver Flora medal was recommended. Messrs. T. H. Crasp
and Co., Clyne Valley Nurseries, Swansea, sent some bunches of Asters
and Celosias, the flowers being fresh and brightly coloured. A bronze
Banksian medal was recommended. A box of new single Dahlias came
from T. W. Girdlestone, Esq., Sunningdale, and for four of these awards
of merit were adjudged. They were Golden Locks, Phyllis, Demon, and
“M.C.C.”; descriptions of these will be found elsewhere. The best of

248

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 14, 1893.

the other varieties were Puck, Cinderella, Jack Sheppard, Yankee, and
Splash. Mr. May, gardener to Captain Le Blanc, Northaw House,
Potter’s Bar, sent a dozen blooms of Dahlia Mrs, Le Blanc, a fine double
white, but no award was made.

Messrs. J. Veitch k. Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea, sent a box
of hybrid Streptocarpus, the blooms, which were rich and varied in
colour, having been cut from plants grown from seed sown in January
of this year. The same firm had a box of Rhododendron javanico-
jasminiflorum hybrids, the most conspicuous of which were Monarch,
Empress, Lord Wolesley, Aurora, Ophelia, Princess Royal, and Souvenir
de J. S. Mangles, A vote of thanks was accorded for these charming
flowers. A collection of Cannas came from the gardens of the Society
at Chiswick, and the flowers of these were exceedingly bright. The
best were Gloire d’Empel (Vilmorin), Alphonse Bouvier (Lemoine), Star
of ’91 (Allan), and Quasimodo (Vilmorin). An award of merit was
adjudged for the latter, which is described elsewhere. Messrs. Stuart
and Mein, Kelso, had a few bunches of Pentstemons, and Dr, P. H.
Emerson, Claringfold, Broadstairs, sent some Tuberoses that had been
grown in the open air.

Messrs. Dobbie & Co., Rothesay, contributed a collection of Violas,
French Marigolds, and single Dahlias, and a silver Banksian medal was
recommended. Amongst the Violas Sunrise, Rob Roy, Lucy Ashton,
White Duchess, Lemon Queen, Dawn of Day, Duchess of Fife, and J. B.
Riding were the most conspicuous. The Dahlias were attractive,
especially Wiliie Fyfe, Marion, Lucy Gray, and James Cook. The
same firm sent a collection of new type of “Single Cactus” Dahlias,
which attracted attention. These flowers are small with narrow petals,
and are richly coloured. Roses and hardy flowers were well shown by
Messrs. G. Paul & Son, The Old Nurseries, Cheshunt, and a silver Flora
medal w'as recommended. Among the Roses La France, E, Y. Teas,
Eclair, Madame de Watteville, Duchess of Albany, and G6n^ral
Jacqueminot were most noticeable, although the whole of the flowers
were very fresh. An award of merit was adjudged for Noisette Rose
Adeline Viviand Morel, which is described below. Messrs. Paul & Son
also had two boxes of Phloxes, and an award of merit was given for
Moliere, a very bright and distinct variety. The same firm also sent
plants of Clematis Davidana, an herbaceous species that is not seen so
frequently as it might be.

Orchid Committee. — Present : Messrs. S. Courtauld (in the chair) ;
Jas. O'Brien, J. Douglas, A. H. Smee, W. H. White, E. Hill, T. W. Bird,
H. Ballantyne, J. Jacques, and Dr. Masters.

Messrs. Sander «& Co. had one of their familiar collections — choice,
bright, and interesting. Habenaria carnea, for which they received a
certificate a fortnight ago, was prominent in it ; and there was also a
pan of H. militaris, affording an opportunity of a comparison between
the two forms as to size. H. carnea is about twice the size of the other.
They also had Aerides Lawrencife, Warscewicziella Wailesianum,
Miltonia Morelliana, and Cypripedium L’Unique (Lindleyana X Schlimi
alba). The St. Albans firm also exhibited Bilbergia Saundersi and
Cucuma Bakeriana in bloom (silver Flora medal). C. L. M. Ingram,
Esq., Elstead House, Godaiming (gardener, Mr. Bond), sent Cypripedium
Adonis X (hirsutissimum x Curtisi) and Cattleya AlexandrEe, Linden’s
var. Messrs. Hugh Low & Co. had a charming little group, in
which the magnificent Stanhopea Amesiana was very conspicuous. Its
ivory white glistening flowers, with their powerful and delicious
Hyacinth - like perfume, were extremely beautiful. Cypripedium
Brayanum, C. picturatum, and several other attractive forms were also
in the collection, at the back of which was Lilium nepalense, the
chocolate, green-tipped species, for w’hich the firm received a certificate
four years ago (silver Banksian medal). Messrs. Veitch & Sons contri¬
buted four Orchids, for three of which they received honours — an excel¬
lent record. They are described below. N. C. Cookson, Esq., Oakwood,
Wylam-on-Tyne (gardener, Mr. Murray), sent Cattleya-Lselia Clive.
R. J. Measures, Esq., Cambridge Lodge, Camberwell (gardener, Mr.
Chapman), sent Cypripedium Schomburgkiana, C. Hebe, and several
others (bronze Banksian medal). T. Statter, Esq., Stand Hall, Man¬
chester, received a vote of thanks for an interesting collection of
Cattleyas, including Leopoldi, Stand Hall var., Parthenia Xj Victoria
Regina, Statteriana, and others.

Certificates and Awards of Merit.

Canna Quasimodo (Vilmorin). — This a grand Canna sent from the
gardens of the R.H.S. at Chiswick. The flowers are large, bright scarlet
with a well-defined yellow margin (award of merit).

Cypripedium X Aphrodite (Veitch & Sons). — A very remarkable
and beautiful hybrid, the result of a cross between C. Lawrenceanum
and C. niveum, the former being the pollen parent. The dorsal sepal is
almost orbicular, the petals short and extremely broad, being about an
inch across, the lip short and blunt. The colouring throughout is white
or ivory, suffused with rose and dotted with chocolate. The form
exhibits a peculiar combination of the form and colour of the parents
(first-class certificate).

Cypripedium Clotilde Moens (L’Horticulture Internationale). — A
cross between C. Leeanum and C. Haynaldianum, distinct, but leaning
to Leeanum in general expression. The dorsal sepal is white with a
central bar of brownish red, the basal portion green. The twisted petals
are green towards the base dotted with brown, the apical area light
purple (award of merit).

Cypripedium Leonce (H. S. Leon. Esq.). — A cross between C. callo¬
sum (pollen parent) and C. insigne Chantini. It is noteworthy for its
very long broad lip, the central portion of which is green dotted wuth

brown, the margins pure w'hite. The petals are blunt and the lip
reddish brown (award of merit).

Cypripedium ceno-superhiens (Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart). — This, a
cross between C. oenanthum, and C. superbiens, is a very bright and
handsome form. The prevailing colour is a brownish red, this suffusing
petals and lip. The former are broad and spreading, the latter somewhat
pointed. The dorsal sepal is broad and beautiful, being heavily lined
with chocolate dots and suffused with rose. Margin pure white (award
of merit).

Dahlia CannelVs Gem (H. Cannell & Sons). — This is a small flower
of the Cactus type, colour deep red. It is described as a “ Pompon
Cactus ” (award of merit).

Dahlia Demon (T. 'VV. Girdlestone). — A handsome single Dahlia of
a very rich dark maroon, with a fine yellow disc (award of merit).

Dahlia Golden Lochs (T. W. Girdlestone).— A very bright yellow
single Dahlia, with flowers of perfect form and a good size (award of
merit).

Dahlia AI.C.C. (T. 'W. Girdlestone).— A distinct single Dahlia, and
one that is likely to become popular. The flowers are large, and the
colour a pretty mixture of gold and scarlet (award of merit).

Dahlia Phyllis (T. "W. Girdlestone). — This is a pretty single variety
with flowers of good size and form. The ground colour is a dull white
flaked and spotted with magenta crimson (award of merit).

Lcelio- Cattleya Epieasta (J. Veitch & Sons). — Another bigeneric
hybrid, and very bright. The parents are Cattleya Warscewiczi and
Lselia pumila, the former being the pollen parent. It has the Laelia
habit. The flowers are large and brilliant, the sepals and petals being
rosy mauve, and the lip rich purplish carmine (award of merit).

Lcelio- Cattleya Nysa (J. Veitch & Sons). — The same pollen parent was
used for this — viz., Cattleya "Warscewiczi, the female being Lselia crispa.
The sepals and petals are soft pinkish lavender, the crisped lip purplish
carmine (award of merit).

Phlox Moliere (G. Paul & Son). — This is an attractive variety with
fine trusses of flowers, and a rich pink shade (award of merit.)

Rose Adeline Viviand Morel (G. Paul & Son). — This is a charming
Noisette Rose with miniature rich yellow blooms, margin of petals tinted
carmine (award of merit).

Frdits. — A first»class certificate was awarded to Messrs. T. Rivers
and Son for Golden Transparent Plum, awards of merit to Mr. W. H.
Divers for Duchess of Yorh Peach, also to Mr. Walter Weir for Cape
Muscat Grape, and to Messrs. W. E. Browne & Son for Bartlett's Glory
Apple, as described in our report of the Fruit Committee.

At the afternoon meeting Mr. J. Douglas read a paper on “ Garden
Phloxes and Pentstemons,” which was listened to by rather a small
though appreciative audience. There were not so many of these flowers
exhibited at the meeting as might have been expected, and had there
been more they would have done well to illustrate Mr. Douglas’ remarks,
which it need hardly be said were of a practical nature.

PINKS.

Thirty years ago the Pink was in its zenith of glory, but since that
period it has gradually declined, until at the present time one can
seldom see a good collection. It is very difficult to account for this
change ; but I am inclined to think it has been caused by the intro¬
duction of BO many new plants. At the present day many people do
not know anything at all about the show or laced Pinks. Most
gardeners grow a few border varieties to yield blooms for cutting, and
beyond that no special attention is paid to the plants. There is quite
as much enjoyment to be derived from growing a collection of Pinks
as from Carnations. There is a variety of colours and markings to
obtain that will give the true florist plenty of labour to attain.

September is the proper season to commence their culture, and to
be a successful Pink grower it is necessary to start with young plants.
In bygone days the old florists used to carry out most elaborate direc¬
tions when preparing the soil for their Pink beds ; but I think the
major part of those directions can be dispensed with, for, given a good
fertile soil enriched with manure, there need be no difficulty as far as
soil is concerned. At the same time poor ground requires the addition of
some rich manure. The latter should be dug in some weeks previous
to planting ; but where this has not already been done it must be
attended to before the plants are obtained. A cold wet soil requires a
little more manipulation than a light one. Raised beds are the best in
such places, and if 6 inches above the level of the ground it will be
ample. Some people plant their Pinks in October, others even wait
till the spring, which is a mistake. I like planting in September for
two reasons ; firstly, because the soil is generally in good condition then,
and the plants can make new roots before severe frosts set in ; and
secondly, because most of the plants obtained from nurseries are
ready during this month.

The plants may be 12 inches asunder each way. Place each plant
a little deeper in the soil than it was before, and press the latter
firmly. A light mulching of short m.anure will help the plants. Should
the frosts cause any of the Pinks to rise out of the soil the grower
must press them down again. I append the names of a few reliable
varieties : — Boiard, Beauty of Bath, Beauty, Emerald, George 'White,
Godfrey, James Thurston, Modesty, Irene, Ernest, Mrs. Campbell,
Nellie, Pilot, Rosy Morn, and William Paul. — Jas. B. Riding.

September 14, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

249

National Chrysanthemum Society.

I DO not know who is responsible for the wording of the last paragraph
re N.C.S. on page 224 of your last issue, but the impression it conveys is
distinctly incorrect, as my offer was in response to a personal invitation
by the Secretary. Kindly correct. — Chas. B. Pearson.

Chrysanthemum Show at Bordeaux.

The 118th Exhibition of the Horticultural Society of the Gironde
will be held on the 11th to the 18th November next. It will be devoted
to Chrysanthemums and fruit, in the former of which are classes provided
for plants in pots, seedlings not already in commerce, cut blooms, &c.
Entries must be made by the 30th prox. The Secretary is Mr. G.
Michel.

Early Flowering Chrysanthemums.

Visitors to the recent Aquarium Show, and especially such as are
interested in the Chrysanthemum, must have felt much disappointment
at the meagre and far from satisfactory display that the early varieties
made on that occasion . When we think that we have now hundreds of
varieties to choose from, is it not strange that the exhibits were almost
wholly confined to old-established sorts ? As is usual at the September
Exhibition, there were a few of the later sorts prematurely pushed into
bloom to provide examples for the Show board ; but this is a mere com¬
ment by the way.

In the best collections novelties were scarce, and the competitors
seemed to prefer to rely upon varieties of old standing, the principal
ones being the Desgranges family, Early Blush, Mrs. Jolivart, St. Mary,
Golden Fleece, Fiberta, Mrs. J. K. Pitcher, Higham, Mr. Selby, Little
Bob, Blushing Bride, Pynaert van Geert, and the like. The only flowers
of modern introduction were Arthur Cr4pey (a small yellow Japanese),
Gustave Grunerwold, Samuel Barlow, and Mr. B. Kowbottom, the last
two receiving first-class certificates.

Perhaps the prize list was not sufficiently attractive to induce
exhibitors to stage the best new varieties of recent introduction, but
even if it had been I cannot help feeling that it is anything but
encouraging to arrange Chrysanthemums beside the glowing brilliant
colours of the Dahlia and Gladiolus. It makes them look tawdry,
washed out, dingy flowers, and out of place with such gay companions
close at hand. Seen beneath a dull November sky of the orthodox pea-
soup-coloured hue the Chrysanthemum is intensified in colour, or is
apparently so, and possesses a charm which it never seems to have at
any other season of the year. It is invaluable then ; but when Dahlias,
Asters, Gladioli, and other flowers can be had in galore, the question
arises. Are Chrysanthemums wanted 1 I for one cannot help thinking —
No 1 and the more strongly if the dull unattractive washed-out blooms
we saw on the solitary table devoted to Chrysanthemums at the Aquarium
last week represent all that is fairest to look upon in the way of early
flowering Chrysanthemums. — P.

THE ROMANCE OF A GARDEN.

In an iold-fashioned garden, sufficiently modernised to prevent the
existence of too much shade at the expense of light and air, we are at
once, as I often feel myself, in the present and in the past. Surrounded,
not too closely, by the venerable trees which our grandsires planted
and our fathers greatly loved, each of these perhaps having through
long associations with human experiences a history of its own, we
breathe a tranquillity as if of other days. To watch from day to day,
as the lover of Nature who possesses such a garden can always do, the
development, so beautiful in its indefinable gradations, of plants and
flowers ; to witness the ffinotheras or Evening Primroses unfolding
their beauties when they are touched by the cool, freshening, energising
twilight, while they kept folded by day under the influence of the sun ;
to behold in early dew-glittering hours of summer the fresh splendours
of the Lily, the Carnation, and the Rose ; this, more than all Romeo
and Juliet romances, constitutes, to my consciousness, the purest poetry
of life. It is not long since a great general, to whom I have often
spoken, with his perfect approval, of the mental elevation which horti¬
culture can confer, said that flowers were to him the very fragrance of
an existence that had seen much of strife, and the conceptions to
which 1 have given expression are the echo of his words.

At no period are our gardens more luxuriant in their aspect than
during the tranquil season of autumn. Then the dark Roses, no longer
scorched by the withering heat of summer, assume their exquisite
velvety hue, not difficult to discern, but difficult to deflne. Then, in
my own garden at least, every aged tree is covered to a height of
15 feet with the glorious blossoms of the great Tropmolum, the Scarlet
Runner, and the fragrant Sweet Pea, the last mentioned blooming —
in consequence of the prevention of seed pods — from the end of June
till the beginning of December, when the frost comes suddenly and cuts
it down. Here also, at this season, border Carnations, the yellow
Germania, crimson Clove, the pink-hued Raby Castle, and the fragrant

white Gloire de Nancy, combine with the autumnal Roses by which
they are surrounded to produce a splendidly artistic effect.

The Carnation has been described by the Dean of Rochester as
“First Lady-in-Waiting to the Rose;” but during the last month,
notwithstanding all her efforts to keep pace with her, the queen of
flowers has been completely in the shade. Twice during the seasons of
summer and autumn does the Rose assume the royal sway ; during her
period of repose the Carnation reigns supreme. But both have powerful
rivals in Lilium auratum and Lilium speciosum, which contribute
powerfully to the fragrance and beauty of the garden in their season.—
David R. Williamson.

LITTONIA MODESTA.

Although this Littonia is said to have first flowered at Kew about
forty years ago it does not appear to be generally grown in gardens,

inasmuch as a young gardener writes to say that he has “ never seen a
specimen, and should like an illustration of it to appear in the Journal”
We comply with the request, and add a few particulars concerning the
plant.

Although nearly related to the well-known Gloriosa superba, this
little plant is quite distinct enough to take generic rank, and though of
an unassuming character as its name indicates, it is of graceful habit,
and the freely produced flowers are brightly blurred . Littonia modesta
is a native of Natal, where it was found by Mr. John Sanderson during
a journey in 1851 from Port Natal to Maritzburg. In habit it is much
like the Gloriosa, having tapering leaves terminating in a tendril- like
point, which aids it in climbing stems or twigs. The flowers are borne
in the axils of the leaves, are drooping, and bright orange coloured. The

250

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 14, 1893.

tubers are of peculiar shape, brownish, and have been compared to a
Spanish Chestnut, and the manner of growth is very curious. It has
been grown in a stove and in cooler quarters, but an intermediate tem¬
perature and sandy soil seem to suit it best.

“ART OUT OF DOORS.”

This is the title of a work by Mrs. Schuyler van Eensslaer, and
produced by T. Fisher Unwin in a form which reflects the highest
credit upon the skill of the publishers. Those who have any acquaint¬
ance with New York will at once perceive that the authoress is, by
name at least, connected with families of genealogies sufficiently
traceable to have become historical in the oldest of the United States.

The book is written in the spirit of an enthusiast, and in a style
which is flowing and agreeable, though here and there are traces of
journalese that might have been corrected with advantage before the
issue of the collected articles. Why, we ask, has the good old-fashioned
word “mark” gone completely out of use now-a-days in favour of
the words “emphasize,” and “accentuate?” Nobody “marks” or
“intensifies” an idea or feature in these advanced days, he always
^‘emphasizes” or “ accentuates ” it. There is everything to be said in
favour of enriching a language with equivalents, but in the effort to
make the new comers take root writers use them with a persistency that
becomes monotonous, and without always a delicate sense of what is
appropriate. It may be becoming in Mr. Gladstone when making some
of his oratorical flights to vary his diction with such high sounding
terminology as those words above mentioned, but in more simple styles
such as this one treating of gardening the older ones would have been
as good or better. So, too, with many writers on gardening ; no oppor¬
tunity is lost of dragging in the word “ environment ” by way of
making a small subject bigger, instead of being content with the words
“ surroundings,” “ situation,” “ position,” or the simple word “ place.”

Mrs. Schuyler van Rensslaer, as we said before, writes very pleasantly
and voluminously upon the subject of landscape gardening, which is
clearly a favourite one with her. She lays down, too, certain principles,
but they are usually of a very broad and indefinite sort, and so variable
with the conditions of each case as to be scarcely of any service to a
novice. Indeed, without diagrams it is difficult to see how such an
intricate subject could be made intelligible except to an expert. The
first condition is that the materials upon which the landscape artist has
to work are known. In the absence of this, the most that can be done
is to indicate the most glaring faults to be avoided. As Mrs. Van
Rensslaer says, the art is a difficult one, being the offspring of these
latter and more highly cultured days, and therefore still in its infancy.
There must be much more aesthetic cultivation of the people before the
landscape-gardening enormities of the present become offensive and
unpalatable. In her condemnation of the use of masses of highly
coloured plants everywhere, she is amply justified, as it is but rarely
that these are sufficiently subdued. Her quotation of a French artist’s
definition of ordinary peoples’ idea of gardening is quite in keeping with
the interest she shows in promoting the art. This is “ the clearing up
of spontaneous vegetation followed by the accumulation of strange and
dissimilar objects.”

In the chapter entitled “A Word for Books,” Mrs. Van Rensslaer
makes out a very good case in opposition to those who attack the
scientific names of plants as being unwieldly and unpoetical. In some
cases the vernacular names may be superior to the scientific, but in
most cases they are no better or even inferior, and of course are un¬
intelligible beyond their own frontiers. It is difficult to see why
“goose foot,” or “fat hen” is more euphonious than Chenopodium,
or^ “Flower of the West Wind” than Zephyrantbes. Indeed the
scientific names being Latinised are better suited for the sweetness and
dignity of verse than the local ones. Want of familiarity, that is
want of knowledge, forms in nearly every case the ground of objection
to them.

“Art Out of Doors” is written for Americans and for the climatic
conditions prevailing in the United States, and therefore cannot be
accepted by English people except in a qualified way. It is, however,
very agreeable and instructive reading for those who aie interested
in the domestic life of our kinsfolk across the water, as we can note
therein how the habits of our ancestors have become modified by the
force of altered circumstances upon a new continent.

HORTICULTURAL SHOWS.

DERBY. — September 6th and 7th.

This was the annual meeting of the Derbyshire Agricultural and
Horticultural Society. The entire Show was an improvement on former
meetings, and the horticultural department was 50 per cent, better than
it was last year. The display was certainly excellent, admirably
arranged in three tents, so constructed that while each tent contained
mainly a separate section, all three were connected, and the entire
exhibition could be inspected as a whole under one roof, or rather,
connected series of roofs. This is a first-rate plan at a combined
meeting of horticulture and agriculture especially, but it is also worthy
•of adoption for any horticultural exhibition.

The exhibits in the section for gentlemen’s gardeners were arranged
m a coinmodious circular tent, the centre being devoted to plant groups,
tastefully enclosing a bold mass of Palms. The effect as a whole was

exceptionally fine, the Palms forming a capital background to every
group, while giving due importance and height to the centre. Admirably
was the entire space filled in response to a generous offer by the Com¬
mittee of twice the amount hitherto given. Class 1, open to all England,
brought five groups into competition, the whole of them displaying much
skill both in culture and grouping. The first prize was well won by Mr.
J. Ward, gardener to G. H. Oakes, Esq., Biddings House, with a charm¬
ing group, in which lightness, elegance, and tasteful blending of
colour was exceedingly well done. There was very little blossom, the rich
foliage of Crotons, with the brighter hue of Grasses, and the greenery of
Palms and Ferns, combined in perfect taste to form an artistic arrange¬
ment entirely worthy of the £20 awarded it. Mr. Cypher of Chelten¬
ham came second, a really good second, the veteran exhibitor having
no reason to be ashamed of being beaten by so able an adversary as
Mr. Ward. Mr. Webb, Kelham Hall, Newark, was third with also a fine
group, having Palms and green Dracsenas springing out of a well
blended undergrowth of Ferns, Grasses, Caladiums, and small highly
coloured Crotons, and most remarkable of all was the fourth prize group
from the fact of the winner being Mr. Shakespere of Tibshelf, a work¬
ing collier.

For twelve stove or greenhouse plants Mr. Finch of Coventry was
first with large, well-finished specimens. Erica Marnockiana, Crotons
Prince of Wales and Queen Victoria, Erica Atoniana Turnbulliand Ixora
being the most noteworthy as noble specimens in perfect condition.
Mr. Vere, gardener to — Gisbourne, Esq., Allestree Hall, was second.
He also had a first prize for grand specimen Lycopodiums. For a
collection of Ferns Mr. Ward was first with some magnificent plants,
the perfection of high culture and finish ; Mr. Vere being second, a
Pteris argyrea in his group being very striking. There were only two
entries for baskets of plants, both being so good that the merit was
almost equal. Mr. Ward was first and Mr. Vere second. Roses were
not well represented, only six stands being shown. For twelve, Mr.
Robinson was first, Mr. Carrington second, and Mr. Henson third.
Most of the blooms were inferior, and none call for special mention.
In the class for six blooms the same three exhibitors were in competition,
the first prize going to Mr. Henson, the second to Mr. Robinson, third
Mr. Carrington. Dahlias were also in moderate numbers, calling for no
special mention. Mr. Carrington was first with a grand dozen of doubles,
second for six, and first with a good stand of Cactus Dahlias. Mr.
Henson won a second, third, and fourth prize in this class, and
Mr. Robinson two thirds. Mr. Carrington was well to the front for
twelve Zonal Pelargoniums, Mr. Henson taking first prize for double
Pelargoniums. Verbenas and Gladioli were moderately shown, and
with Asters Mr. Robinson’s first prize stand had some perfect blooms.
For hand bouquets Mr. Robinson took first honours, Mr. Henson
second, Mr. Carrington third, and Mr. Bolas fourth. Mr. Bolas also
had first for a tastefully dressed epergne.

In the fruit classes Grapes made a grand display, most of the ’ounches
being exceptionally fine and well finished. For two bunches of Black
Hamburgh Mr. Campbell had perfect samples, large in bunch and
berry, of splendid colour and finish. Mr. Woodward was second with
fine well shouldered bunches, Mr. M‘Vinish a close third, and Mr. Evans
fourth. Mr. M‘Vinish had two grand bunches of Muscats, and was an
easy first, Messrs. Innes «& Co. of Littleover being a good second, Mr.
Billings third with small highly coloured fruit, and Mr. Campbell
fourth. For black Grapes other than Hamburghs Mr. Campbell’s two
bunches of Gros Maroc were magnificent, the berries being enormous.
The champion prize for the finest two bunches of Grapes in the Show
was also awarded to these splendid examples of skilful culture. Mr,
M'Vinish was second with his excellent Alicante, and Messrs. Innes & Co.
were third with enormous bunches of Gros Guillaume. For white
Grapes other than Muscats Mr. Billings was first and Mr. Read second.
In the competition for the Mayor of Derby’s (W. H. Marsden, Esq.)
special prizes Mr. M‘Vinish was first with splendid bunches of
Black Hamburgh, Muscat of Alexandria, and Alicante, Mr. Campbell
being second, and Messrs. Innes third.

Mr. Ward’s first prize Tomatoes were twelve perfect specimens, Mr,
Webb was second, and Mr. M'Vinish third. They are mentioned here
as they were placed among the fruits. Pears were a small class. There
was a fair display of Melons, Mr. Billings taking first honours with a
fine example of Reid’s 8carlet-flesh, Mr. Evans being first with a green-
fleshed variety, Mr. Ward’s fine plate of Peaches easily won the first
prize; Mr. Webb was second, and Mr. Woodward third. Mr. Campbell
had a first prize for the only plate of Nectarines shown. Among other
fruit Mr. Read’s Pond’s Seedling Plums are worthy of special mention ;
they were shown in his first prize collection of fruit.

Collections of vegetables made a good display, a common fault being
in the usual direction of excessive size. Mr. Ward was first, Mr. Read
second, and Mr. M‘Vinish third. Collections of eight dishes of Potatoes
were a remarkable feature, the whole of the six entries being splendid
examples of skilful culture. The names of the prizewinners were not
appended, but the first prize went to eight grand plates of Reading
Ruby, Wormleighton Seedling, Prizetaker, Sutton’s Seedling, Reading
Giant, Reading Ruby, Satisfaction, and Windsor Castle.

Section 2, for persons not employing a gardener, contained some
produce of much excellence. Taking them as we went round, the most
noteworthy were hand bouquets decidedly superior to those in the first
or gardeners’ section. Roses were more numerous in this class. Dahlias
were very fine, the first prize flowers of Mr. J. Wood being grand
specimens. There was also a creditable display of Asters, Gladiolus,
Pansies, Marigolds, and baskets of cut flowers. Grapes were well shown.

September 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

261

so, too, were Apples, Cucumbers, and Tomatoes. The vegetables shown
in this section were highly creditable, most of the classes being well
filled, many of the vegetables being good in quality, but the Cauliflowers
were too large. Collections of herbs were excellent.

In the cottagers’ section there was an imposing display of vegetables,
upwards of fifty plates of Potatoes being among the more conspicuous
features. Cabbages, Carrots, Parsnips, Turnips, Vegetable Marrows,
and Onions all being superior examples of high cultivation, and the
collections of vegetables, of which there were nine, were also of remark¬
able excellence.

BIRKENHEAD AND WIRRAL. — Septembee 7th axd 8th.

This Exhibition, in connection with the Agricultural Show, was
held on the above dates at the Bidston Show Ground, and was a decided
advance on previous years, both as regards the entries and the general
excellence of the exhibits. Fine weather prevailed on the first day, and
in consequence the attendance was very large.

For five foliage and five flowering plants, Mr. A. Brown, gardener to
Geo. Webster, Esq., was first with a very good collection, the best
flowering plant being Ixora coccinea, and foliage, Croton Rothschild-
ianum. Macgregor Laird, Esq., was a good second. For a group of
plants arranged for effect, Mr. J. Bounds, gardener to A. L. Jones, Esq.,
Aigburth, took first honours, Mr. E. Bradshaw second, and Macgregor
Laird, Esq., third. They were much after the style of the smaller
groups which have been from time to time commented upon in the
Journal, For three stove or greenhouse plants in bloom, Mr. A. Brown
was first, having a fine Ixora coccinea. For a similar number of
foliage plants the same exhibitor was again successful, also for one
greenhouse plant in bloom, one stove plant in bloom with a very fine
Dipladenia, one foliage plant, three Ferns and one Fern, three Tuberous
Begonias, three Pelargoniums, and one Fuchsia, a most creditable per¬
formance, those competing against him having plants of the highest
quality. The second prizes were taken by Macgregor Laird, Esq., for
the three foliage plants, greenhouse plant in bloom, three stove and
greenhouse plants in bloom, and three Tuberous Begonias. Mr. J.
Bounds was second for three Ferns, the prize for one Palm going to
Mr. J. W. Totty, gardener to W. Laird, Esq. Mr. A. J. Stanley, gardener
to J. R. Callander, Esq., took the prize for three Coleuses, and Mr. J.
Bounds for table plants.

Cut flowers, particularly Dahlias and Asters, were splendidly shown,
and the competition was keen. For the best bouquet the first prize was
won by Mr. S. Johnson, the second going to Mr. J. Williams, gardener to
C. J. Procter, Esq., the latter winning in classes for sprays for ladies and
buttonhole bouquets for gentlemen. Mr. R. Brownbill, gardener to
J. C. Sinclair, Esq., was successful with six Roses ; Mr. C. Terry,
gardener to C. H. Skelsey, Esq., had the best three blooms. For twelve
Cactus Dahlias Mr. A. J. Stanley was an easy winner, his blooms being
fresh, solid, and very fine in colour. Mr. J. H. Bennett was second.
The same exhibitor was also first for six Cactus Dahlias. The prizes for
twelve Dahlias and six other than Cactus were taken by Mr. J. Lee,
the second going to Mr. J. Clarke. The prizes for six Gladioli, six
Asters, and six outdoor cut flowers went also to Mr. Lee. For twelve
Asters J. Howell, Esq. (gardener, F. Davies), was first ; and for six
Asters and twelve varieties outdoor cut flowers Macgregor Laird, Esq.,
was successful. The prizes for Hollyhocks and Everlasting Flowers went
to Messrs. T. Brocklebank and Williams. The awards for twelve, six,
and three varieties of cut flowers grown indoors fell in each instance to
Mr. R. Pinnington, gardener to Mrs. Banner, Blacklow House, Roby,
with a choice collection, the second prizes going to Messrs. Brown and
Bounds.

For six dishes of fruit Mr. M. Hannagan, gardener to R. C. Naylor,
Esq., Hooton Hall, Cheshire, was first, the collection being very fine
in every respect. The second prize was won by Mr. G. McCreadie,
gardener to J. W. Haigh, Esq. For a collection of hardy fruits the
first prize was secured by Mr. C. Worker, gardener to Mrs. Blomfield.
Second Mr. Hannagan. Mr. R. Brownbill won with two bunches Black
Hamburgh, small in berry, but well coloured. Mr. Ferguson, gardener
to Mrs. Paterson, Rock Ferry, was second. For two bunches of Grapes,
any other black, Mr. J. Richards, gardener to Mrs. Friend, was first
with fine Madresfield Court, Mr. R. W. Hudson being second with same
variety. The first prize for two bunches of Muscats was well won by
Mr. J. Barker gardener to Alderman Raynes, Rock Ferry, with well
finished samples, whilst Mr. McCreadie won for any other white with
Buckland Sweetwater. With six Nectarines Mr. Hannagan was the
only exhibitor. In the class for Peaches Mr. R. Pinnington won with a
grand dish of Gladstone, large in size and fine colour. The prizes for
scarlet-flesh Melons went to Messrs. Ferguson and Pinnington, and for
green-flesh to Messrs. Hannagan and Pinnington. Apples were especi¬
ally fine, the prizes for six dessert going to Mr. John Clarke, six Lord
SuflSelds to Mr. W. B. Burnham ; whilst for six of any other culinary
variety the first and second exhibits of Peasgood’s Nonesuch, staged by
Messrs. Williams and Hannagan, were much admired. Messrs. Ferguson
and Lee won with dessert Pears, and Mr. T. Watkinson with Plums.

The collections of vegetables were all of the highest merit and made
a most extensive display. For eight distinct kinds Mr. S. Salisbury,
gardener to C. H. Carson, Esq., secured the leading prize, the Cauli¬
flowers and Carrots being particularly fine. The second prize went to
Mr. J. Williams for smaller produce. In the open Ciass for eight distinct
kinds, Mr. McCreadie was successful also with a fine exhibit. Tomatoes
were well shown, there being eighteen exhibits entered in class for
twelve fruits. Mr. McMaster, gardener to Sir Ughtred K. Shuttleworth,

Ganthorpe Hall, Burnley, was successful with fine, fresh and even fruits
of Perfection. For six, T. Brocklebank, Esq., was placed first. Potatoes
made a great display, being of excellent quality throughout. For
twelve white rounds and same number of kidneys the prizes went to
Mr. James Ismay, and for corresponding classes for coloured Potatoes to
Mr. Thomas Woolrich. Onions, Leeks, and Shallots were in abundance,
the prizes going to Messrs. McCreadie, Richards, J. Piggott, Mrs. G.
Cooke, and Mr. Woolrich in the order named. Beans, Peas, Celery,
Cucumbers, Cauliflowers, Vegetable Marrows, Lettuce, Cabbages,
Beetroots, Parsnips, Turnips and Carrots were well shown.

Messrs. Webb & Sons of Stourbridge were awarded a gold medal for
an extensive assortment of agricultural seeds, vegetable seeds and dried
specimens of various Grasses, which made an imposing stand. Another
representative stand was arranged by Mr. H. Middlehurst, Manchester
Street, Liverpool, and a silver medal awarded. Messrs. Dickson
(Limited), Chester, also took honours with a tent filled with choice
collections of stove and greenhouse plants, Dahlias and herbaceous cut
flowers, which were much appreciated. Other exhibitors were
McHattie & Co., Chester, with a display of seeds and natural Grassus. —
R. P. R.

EARL’S COURT. — September 13th.

A VBRY attractive display was got together on this occasion, the
drawback being that it was too large, so much tabling being in demand
that the marquee was too full to afford much room for promenading,
and even under this condition of affairs overflow space had to be found
in another part of the building. Dahlias were a great feature, the
groups of them being extremely beautiful. Asters, Helianthuses, and
hardy flowers generally were also in good force, and the fruit exhibits
were an attraction in themselves.

There were three stands in the principal Dahlia class — that for sixty
blooms. Show and Fancy, and Mr. C. Turner followed up his Palace
victory by scoring with an excellent stand, his flowers being in splendid
condition. They were very smooth, even, fresh, and well coloured, the
best being William Keith, Mrs. Saunders, John Hickling, George
Rawlings, Grand Sultan, Kathleen, Richard Dean, and Clara. Messrs.
Keynes, Williams & Co. had distinctly smaller flowers, and they were
perhaps hardly so smooth as those of Mr. Turner, but in other respects
they were excellent, colour and cleanliness being irreproachable. They
were placed second, and the third prize was given to Mr. Mortimer, a
point being strained in his favour, as he had James O’Brien (self) and
Duchess of Albany (self), which are duplicates, in his stand. Messrs.
Saltmarsh & Son had a beautiful stand of twenty-four, the flowers being
delightfully fresh, clean, and fine. Perfection, Harry Keith, Peacock,
and Colonist were extra good. Mr. Arthur Rawlings was .second, and
Mr. G. Humphries third.

In the amateurs’ class for twenty-four. Show and Fancy, Mr. J. T.
West, gardener to W. Keith, Esq., Cornwalls, Brentwood, won with an
admirable box, the flowers being very smooth and even. Mrs. Gladstone,
Geo. Rawlings, Harry Keith, Lustrous, and Prince Bismarck were a few
of the best. Mr. Hobbs, St. Mark’s Road, Euston, was seeond, and
Mr. Vagg, gardener to W. Theobald, Esq., M.P., Bedfords, Romford,
third. With twelve, J. G. Fowler, Esq., Glebelands, South Woodford
won, and he had an admirable box, all the flowers being shapely, fresh
clean, and bright. Mrs. Gladstone and Maud Fellowes were perhaps
the two best. Mr. W. Hopkins, New Passage, Bristol, was second with
smaller blooms, and Mr. Cooper, Chippenham, third.

Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co. had the best of four stands of
eighteen Cactus or Decorative, nearly all their varieties being of the
true Cactus type. Delicata, Lady Penzance, Apollo, Sir Roger, Bertha
Mawley, and Gloriosa were particularly noticeable. Messrs. Cheal and
Sons followed, their best being Robt. Cannell, Ernest Cannell, Kaiserin,
Sir Roger, and Bertha Mawley. Messrs. Burrell & Co. were third. The
best amateur’s box of Cactus was that from Mr. Brown, gardener to
M. W. Morris, Esq., Oak Lodge, Horley, who had very fine clusters of
Kynerith, Professor Baldwin, and Delicata amongst others. Mr. J.
Stredwick, Silver Hill, St. Leonards, was second, and Mr. West third.
The latter was first with Pompons, Messrs. Cooper and Stredwick
following. All were very good stands, Mr. West’s flowers being
charming in the extreme. There were four collections of twenty-four
Pompon varieties in bunches of ten (nurserymen), the best being that of
Mr. C. Turner, whose flowers were in perfect condition. Eric, Rosalie,
Mars, Eurydice, Rowena, and A. West were exceptionally good. Messrs.
Cheat & Sons were a close second with delightful clusters, and Messrs.
Keynes, Williams & Co. were third. Only one stand of twelve singles
turned up out of seven entries, and that came from Mr. Girdlestone.
It was a beautiful box, and well merited the first prize.

Prizes were offered for a collection of Dahlias grouped for effect,
and they made a magnificent display, all being arranged with taste and
informality. Messrs. Cheal & Sons were placed first and the award was
undoubtedly correct, although Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co. made a
good fight. The Crawley firm had employed singles and Pompons with
admirable taste. Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, were third.

Mr. Wythes appeared to have made a special effort in the class for a
collection of stove and greenhouse flowers, and won with consummate
ease. He had splendid clusters of Nerine Fothergilli major, a new and
beautiful blush-coloured Dipladenia named Lady Louisa Edgerton,
Dendrobium Phalmnopsis Schroderiana, Aerides Lawrenciae, Hymeno-
callis macrostephana, and several Bouvardias. It was a splendid box.
Mr. J. Prewitt was second ; and Mr. Gibson, gardener to T . F. Burnaby
Atkins, Esq., third. Messrs. Paul & Son won with a collection of
Michaelmas Daisies ; Messrs. Burrell & Co. being second, and Mr. Such

252

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 14, 1893.

third. Messrs. Burrell were first with Sunflowers, being followed by
Messrs. Paul and Such. Three out of four stands of hardy annuals
were disqualified, and to the other, that of Mr. Salmon, the third prize
was awarded. Messrs. Saltmarsh & Son won with Asters ; Mr. Walker
being second, and Mr. Humphries third. Mr. Such won with early
Chrysanthemums, having large and beautiful bunches ; and Mr. Vince,
Highgate Cemetery, was second.

There was some excellent fruit. Mr. Woodward, gardener to
R. Leigh, Esq., Barham Court, Maidstone, won with three dishes of
Peaches, having splendid fruit. Mr. Carr, gardener to Mrs. Clarke,
Croydon Lodge, second ; and Mr. Potter, gardener to Sir Mark
Collet, Bart., Kemsing, third. Mr. Sanders, The Gardens, Paulton,
Romsey, Hants, had the best single dish, a grand one of Sea Eagle ;
Messrs. Woodward and Wallis (gardener to Ralph Sneyd, Esq.), being
second and third with the same variety. There was only one dish of
Nectarines, this coming from Mr. R. Edwards, Sevenoaks, and the
second prize was awarded. Mr. Woodward won with three dishes of
dessert Apples, having Cox’s Orange fairly good, and Ribston and
Washington excellent. Mr. P. Cavanagh, Roehampton, was second,
and Mr. Potter third. There were seven other competitors. Culinary
varieties were still better. Mr. Woodward won again, having magnifi¬
cent fruit of Stone’s, Peasgood’s, and Warner’s King. Mr. Nicholson,
gardener to J. W. Melles, Esq., Chingford, was second; and Mr.
Cavanagh third. Mr. Woodward had some splendid Pears, and won
easily from Messrs. Potter and West, gardener to H. J. Wigram, Esq.,
Salisbury. The Maidstone grower had splendid fruit of Pitmaston,
Marguerite, Mairillat, and Souvenir du Congres. Mr. Mclndoe,
gardener to Sir J. Pease, Bart., M.P., Hutton Hall, Guisboro’, won
with a collection of cooking and market Plums ; and Mr. Potter was
second. Mr. Mclndoe scored two other victories with Plums, winning
with three dishes of both dessert and cooking varieties. He had
excellent fruit in both. The minor awards went to Mr. T. A. Hester,
gardener to W. G. Dawson, Esq., Plumstead, and Woodward.

The non-competing exhibits were extensive and beautiful. Mr.
J. Walker of Thame had a splendid collection of Dahlias and Asters, for
which he received a silver-gilt medal ; but many would have liked to see
him tackling Mr. Turner in the sixty class. Mr. Mortimer also had a
large collection of Dahlias, and received, as he deserved, a silver medal.
Messrs. J. Laing & Sons put up one of their best elforts in the way of
Begonia groups, the material and the arrangement being of equal
excellence (gold medal). Mr. Turner supplemented his victories in
competition with a fine display of Show and Fancy Dahlias (silver
medal). Miss Cole received a silver medal for table decorations. Mr.
T. S. Ware put together a very fine collection of Dahlias, Cactus, single
and Pompon, arranged in a pleasantly informal manner, and very
beautiful (gold medal). Mr. J. R. Tranter showed Asters and Dahlias
(bronze medal). Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons had a box of their beautiful
hybrid Streptocarpus, and a first-class certificate was awarded for the
excellence of the strains. Mr. J. B. Payne, gardener to the Lord Bishop
of Bath and Wells, The Palace, Wells, received a silver medal for a very
fine dish of Peasgood’s Nonesuch Apple grown on a cold damp wall.
Mr. Maher, gardener to A. Waterhouse, Esq , reeeived a bronze medal
for Crabs.

Messrs. Cannel'l & Sons were represented by a brilliant collection of
dwarf Cannas (silver medal). Messrs. Saltmarsh & Son were awarded
a bronze medal for Asters and Dahlias. Mr. Walter Salmon, the “post¬
man florist,” had a beautiful collection of Dahlias and other flowers
(silver medal). Mr. T. A. Hester had a very extensive display, compris¬
ing ornamental Gourds and forty-five dishes of Apples (silver-gilt medal).
Mr. Wilkins, Inwood House Gardens, Henstridge, had some magnificent
Onions — Somerset Hero, Prizewinner, Ailsa Craig, and Lord Keeper
being very noteworthy (silver medal). Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt,
were awarded a silver medal for a large and fine collection of Apples
and Pears. Messrs. S. Spooner & Son had an excellent display of
Apples and Pears (silver-gilt medal). Mr. Such received a silver, and
Mr. Humphries a silver-gilt medal for Dahlias, both representative
collections. Mr. Poupart, of Twickenham, sent Apples, Pears, and
Plums, which were very fine (silver-gilt medal).

WOKK.F0IITHEWEEK.. ^

HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

Strawberries. — New plantations will require the soil loosening
between the plants with the Dutch hoe, not only to destroy crops of
seedling weeds that spring up rankly after showers, but also to
encourage the growth of the plants as much as possible before winter.

Late Planting. — Plants for furnishing a fair amount of fruit next
season may still be planted, but such should have been specially
prepared for the purpose, either by being rooted and kept moist in pots
or turves, or well-rooted isolated plants obtained from between the rows.
Such plants, carefully and quickly inserted, will be little if at all
inferior to those planted earlier. If sufficient plants are not by these

means secured the best of the smaller-rooted Turners may be lifted and
replanted 6 inches or so asunder in nursery beds, where they may remain
through the winter, planting permanently in rows in the spring. Small
plants placed out late in open quarters or rows often succumb to
adverse weather, because they are not established enough to bear in
winter and spring sudden climatic changes.

Cleaning Strawberry Quarters. — Except where fresh plantations
have not already been formed, and all the plants required secured, it is
not advisable to delay removing the runners and cleaning between the
rows to this late period. Even when many plants are wanted much
may be done to relieve the stools by detaching the runners immediately
the young plants have become rooted. Remove all weak and crowded
plants, especially clearing away those from near the old stools, so
that the latter may receive a fair share of light and air to mature the
crowns. Weeds often grow too freely in Strawberry beds, but they
should be cleared away.

Mulching. — To replenish the impoverished state of the ground
between the oldest stools somewhat, and assist the plumping up of
bold crowns during the autumn, it is desirable to afford a light mulching,
about an inch thick, of partially decayed stable manure. A similar
application may also oe afforded new early-planted beds.

Outdoor Fig'S. — Gather ripe Figs as they become ready, which may
be known by the fruits drooping, the skins being slightly cracked and
juice exuding therefrom. In this condition the fruits are delicious.
Stop all shoots which are extending too far or for which there is not
sufficient space to lay them in without being shaded by others. Thin
crowded shoots, removing weak spray and strong, gross, soft growths.
Retain all short-jointed shoots unstopped, as these, well ripened by
exposure now to sun and air, will prove to be the most fruitful parts in
the succeeding seasons.

Outdoor Vines. — Attend well to the roots of Vines now ripening
fruit on walls, so that they do not suffer from lack of moisture, occasion¬
ally supplying liquid manure or soapsuds as additional support. White
Grapes will need plenty of light to assist them to ripen, black varieties
colouring best under the slight shade of foliage. Expose the current
year’s wood to light and air in order to ripen it and plump up the buds.
Reduce lateral growths as becomes necessary.

Stopping Secondary Growth on Wall Trees. — Summer
pruning duly carried out on Plum, Apple, Pear, Cherry, and Apricot
trees will have resulted in many cases in secondary growth being made,
this starting from the upper buds of shoots that have been shortened.
If the summer pruning was dealt within an intelligent manner no harm
results from new shoots starting and elongating from the upper buds at
this season, provided they are stopped to one leaf when six full sized
ones have been made. If not checked such shoots go on growing, appro¬
priating an undue share of sap which is intended by the stopping to be
concentrated on the lower buds, those developed in the axils of the
leaves left at the first or summer pruning.

Preparation of Ground for Planting Prult Trees. — A friable
condition of the soil at the time of planting will conduce much to the
readiness with which trees can be planted. It is important, therefore,
to commence the work of preparing the ground forthwith. In most
cases either deep digging or trenching will be needed so as to loosen the
soil to a depth of 2 feet, manure consisting of decayed stable manure
being added if poor ; but none if the ground is fairly rich and fertile.
Early preparation permits of the surface soil becoming ameliorated and
the bulk consolidated ; besides, where extensive planting may be con¬
templated there will be considerable advantage in having the sites in
readiness, so that planting may be expeditiously performed when the
most favourable opportunities arise as the trees are losing their leaves.

FRUIT FORCING.

Vines. — Early Forced and Potted Vines. — There must not be any
further delay in the pruning of Vines intended to ripen their fruit by
the end of April or beginning of May, and in cleansing the house and
Vines, so as to have all in proper working order. Vines in pots should
have the laterals cut off close to the canes, but do not injure the main
buds. Shorten the canes to about 8 feet, or lower according to the
disposal of the plump eyes or the length required, and dress the cuts
with Thomson’s styptic or patent knotting to prevent bleeding.

Young Vines. — Every encouragement must be given for ripening the
wood and plumping the buds. This can only be properly effected when
the foliage is kept clean and healthy to the last. Laterals produced
after this time tend to retard the ripening of the wood, therefore remove
or keep them closely pinched. Where laterals have been allowed to
extend considerably they should be shortened by degrees, so as to remove
them altogether without starting the principal buds or those on the cane.
Maintain a rather warm well ventilated atmosphere until the canes are
ripe, which may be accelerated by having a temperature of 85° to 90°
from sun heat, opening the ventilators fully at night. Any super¬
numeraries intended to produce fruit next season should have the
laterals cut away to the principal buds, not, however, all at once, but
gradually, leaving sufficient lateral length as an outlet for any excess
of sap.

Late Houses of Blach Hamhirghs. — The Grapes are now well
advanced in colouring. The ripening must be thorough or the Grapes
will not keep well, and to effect this a gentle warmth in the pipes is
necessary, to admit a free circulation of air, and to maintain the night
temperature at 60° to 65°. A little artificial heat during the day will
also be of benefit in allowing of free ventilation and making the

September 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

253

most of sun heat. Hambur^hs colcu/ and finish best beneath a gooi
spread*of foliage, as also does Madresfield Court, but it is as well not to
encourage lateral growth now ; at the same time it must be borne in
mind that the tendency to shanking is accelerated by large reductions of
foliage, and equally so by sudden fluctuations of temperature. A little
air should be admitted through the top and bottom ventilators until the
Grapes are ripe. If there is any deficiency of moisture in the borders it
will be better to give a supply now than at a later period, covering with
some dry material, so as to prevent damp rising. A free circulation of
air, however, is the best safeguard against the Grapes damping, for the
fungal germs that produce spotting and decay require a still and damp
air for seating and germination.

Outside borders will in most instances be sufficiently moist — if not
they must be watered, and unless the weather set in unusually wet they
need not be covered at present ; but glazed lights, shutters, or tarpaulin
should be in readiness for placing over them, so as to throw off con¬
tinued heavy rains. Where the borders are well raised above the
surrounding level, have a good slope, and are composed of porous
material over thorough drainage it is not necessary to cover them ; but
the Grapes sometimes decay wholesale when the borders are very rich
and close and soddened by heavy rains.

Zate Muscat Houses. — The Grapes are close upon finishing, but they
are not by any means matured, as they will continue to acquire colour
and quality as long as the leaves are green. There must not be any
attempt at removing the leaves, but allow them to remain until they
part naturally at the base of the footstalks from the shoots. The bearing
shoots should be given plenty of space, so that throughout their growth
every leaf will have full exposure to light. Where the Grapes are not
now ripe the night temperature ought to be kept at 65° to 70°, and the
heat should be turned on in good time in the morning, so as to allow of
an increase of ventilation, and the temperature be raised to 70° to 75°,
and kept at 80° to 85° from the sun. The heat should be kept up by
reducing the ventilation, with the declining sun, and the temperature
allowed to gradually decline at night, only keeping sufficient warmth in
the pipes to prevent its undue recession, and to allow the top and
bottom ventilators to be left open to a slight extent. This will insure a
circulation of air, and prevent the deposition of moisture on the berries
during the night. If the latter occurs the Grapes must inevitably spot.
The border must not be allowed to become dry, affording the needful
supplies of water on fine mornings when air can be freely admitted.
After the Grapes are thoroughly ripe and finished, a temperature of
50° to 55° is necessary for the keeping of Muscats in good condition.

Houses of Thich~shi)inc(l Oraj)es. — Late Grapes generally require
fire heat during the ripening period, so as to insure a circulation of air,
and this they should have until thoroughly perfected. This ought now
to be quite complete to insure sound keeping ; where it is not the house
should be treated similarly to Muscats, with the difference that being
mostly black Grapes, they must have a good spread of foliage over them.
A temperature of 50° to 55° is necessary after the Grapes are ripe for the
benefit of the Vines, and the conditioning quality so essential to use in
such varieties as Gros Colman and Gros Guillaume.

Cucumbers. — Autumn Fruiters. — Afford these every attention,
supplying tepid liquid manure copiously. Eemove superfluous laterals,
guarding against an overcrowded growth; also avoid overcropping, not
allowing the fruit to hang on the plants after it becomes fit for use, and
take off staminate blossoms and tendrils. Maintain a genial condition
of the atmosphere by damping the floor and paths in the morning,
afternoon, and evening, syringing the plants only in the early afternoon
of bright days. Look over the plants twice a week for stopping the
shoots one or two joints beyond the show of fruit, removing bad leaves,
and retain no more foliage than can be fully exposed to light. Earth
up the roots as the plants advance in growth, only just covering them
each time as they show at the sides of the hillocks or ridges, the soil
being placed in the house some time previously to be warmed before
used. Supply water as required, not allowing the plants to flag for lack
of it, nor making the soil sodden by needless applications, always having
it of the same temperature as the house.

Winter Fruiters. — Put the plants in large pots, plunging in a
bottom heat of 80° to 90° until established ; then raise them near the
glass, maintaining a temperature of 70° at night, 75° by day, with an
advance from sun heat to 85° or 90°. Where fermenting materials are
used for bottom heat, they must be in preparation, throwing into a
heap, applying water if necessary, and turning over to induce fermenta¬
tion and dissipate noxious gases before making the beds. If plants
have not been raised seed may be sown at the beginning of next month,
and the plants from this sowing will produce fruit in February and
onwards ; but it is no use attempting to winter such plants without the
command of plenty of heat and a light structure.

Plants in pits and frames must be carefully watered, and only
sprinkled lightly on bright days. The foliage should be kept thin,
removing bad leaves and cutting out exhausted growths to give place
for young bearing shoots, and close early with as much sun heat as is
safe. The temperature may be increased to 95° or 100° after closing,
and to secure a suitable heat at night (65°) and on dull days (70° to 75°)
renovate the linings as necessary, and employ night coverings.

IMelons. — When the latest plants are well up the trellis and showing
fruit blossoms, these should be fertilised daily, the atmosphere being
kept rather dry, and a little ventilation given constantly, so as to insure
a circulation of air and prevent the deposition of moisture on the flowers.
Stop the shoots at the time of impregnating the blossoms one joint
beyond the fruit. When a sufficient number of fruits are set on a plant,

remove all the staminate and pistillate flowers, reducing the fruits to
three or four on a plant, which must not be overburdened with fruit.
Earth up the plants after the fruit is fairly swelling, and be careful in
syringing the foliage, only using it lightly on bright afternoons, but
maintain a genial condition of the atmosphere by damping the floors
and similar surfaces in the morning and afternoon. Do not give
too much water at the roots, but encourage root action by moderate
moisture in the soil, with fresh additions of warm soil as the roots
protrude. Maintain a temperature of 70° to 75° by day artificially, and
80° to 90° through the day from sun heat, with a night temperature of
65° to 70°.

In order to advance the ripening and enhance the flavour of late
fruits maintain a brisk heat by day with enough ventilation to insure
a circulation of air constantly, keep water from the house after the
fruit commences ripening, and do not afford any at the roots, or only to
prevent flagging. The October fruiting plants will be swelling their
fruits,, and must be assisted with tepid liquid manure whenever they
become dry. Keep the laterals well in hand, also a sharp look out for
canker at the collar, and rub quicklime into the affected parts until dry,
and repeat as necessary. If there be any fear of cracked fruit cut the
shoot or bine about half way through, a little below the fruit. This
will check the flow of sap, but the chief cause of cracking is a hard rind
acted on by a close atmosphere, causing the deposition of moisture on the
fruit 'during the night. As a preventive of both canker and cracking
ventilate freely and keep the air dry, and supply water sparingly at
the roots.

Plants in pits and frames will not require further damping on the
foliage, and should only have sufficient moisture in the soil to keep the
leaves from becoming limp or flagging. The growths should be kept
rather thin and the fruit well elevated above it — say on reversed flower
pots, each fruit being placed on a piece of slate. Apply good linings, so
as to finish the fruits satisfactorily, which requires a warm and dry
atmosphere with free ventilation. After lining the beds a little air
should be admitted constantly to prevent injury from steam.

PLANT HOUSES.

Crotons — Well furnished plants that are to be increased in size
may be placed into pots one size larger than those they now occupy.
Plants that have become leggy may have their tops re-rooted, and these
if properly treated during the autumn and winter will make excellent
specimens early another season. All well coloured side shoots from
plants that have been cut back may be rooted in small pots. These
small plants will be found invaluable for furnishing purposes during the
winter. Plants that it is necessary to increase in size should have a
warm moist atmosphere, while those that are large enough and highly
coloured may have a more airy position to prevent them starting again
into growth. Those that are subjected to this treatment last much
longer than others that are grown in a close moist atmosphere. A little
chemical manure applied occasionally to the surface of the soil will be
found beneficial to all plants that have their pots full of roots.

Allamandas. — The dwarf A. Williamsi will become a popular
plant. It grows and fiowers freely in a small state, and will, therefore,
prove invaluable for decorative purposes. Well flowered plants can be
produced in 5-inch pots. A. Henderson! for supplying a large amount
of bloom is certainly unsurpassed. Plants that have been growing and
flowering for the greater part of the season should have liquid manure
freely given them, or chemical manure applied to the surface every
week.’ It is a mistake to allow the shoots to grow thickly together
until they become crowded. This prevents the thorough maturation of
the wood, and unduly shades the plants that are grown beneath them.
The flowers on the plants are much smaller in consequence, and are
often deficient in colour. Plants that are to be started early in the year
should be kept drier at their roots, and slightly cooler after this month
to harden and mature the wood. An early rest is essential if the plants
are to start freely into growth when introduced into heat and flower
early on short-jointed wood.

Stephanotls florlbunda. — Plants that have made good growth
and finished flowering should be subjected to cool airy treatment ; in
fact, the plants are better grown for some weeks without the aid of artificial
heat. Give air liberally during the day when fine, but towards evening
close or partially close the structure in which they are grown. Syringe
the plants once daily to keep the foliage clean, and mulch the border or
surface of the pots with manure to prevent evaporation. All weak
growths may be entirely removed from plants that display a tendency
to be crowded. Full light and plenty of air amongst the shoots are
necessary to ripen and harden the wood, for upon its thorough matura¬
tion the number of flowers produced another year will depend.

Glorlosa superba. — Plants that were started early into growth
will show signs of going to rest. Keep plants in this condition drier at
their roots, but do not unduly dry them. Water ought to be gradually
withheld, and more air given until the growing stems have died away
and the tubers are thoroughly matured, when they may be stored away
in any place where the temperature ranges from 50° to 55° if kept dry.

Adlantum cuneatum. — Any plants that are intended for yielding
foliage for cutting as long as possible should not be grown in a high
temperature, and a liberal supply of air must be admitted to them.
These' plants have done well with us this year, and they have been grown
for sotae months past in cold frames fully exposed to the sun. Fronds
produced by this method are of the sturdiest description, light in colour,
and last well in a cut state. Seedlings of both this and Pteris established
in pahs and boxes should be placed singly or two or three together in

251

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 14, 1893.

small pota. If they are shaded and grown in a warm and moist atmo¬
sphere for a time they will soon become established and be very suitable
for many forms of decoration. It will be necessary to harden them
gradually before they are used. Spores of any kinds of Ferns may now
be sown in pans or boxes, the surface of the soil need not be made too
fine. After sowing cover with glass and place the boxes in a moist
shady position.

Caladlums. — Plants that have been in cool houses and are beginning
to fade may be stored away to rest. Do not withhold water all at once.
Place the pots containing the plants where the temperature will not
range lower than 55° where they will be perfectly safe until they are
required for starting again into growth. When sent to rest too rapidly
and kept cool afterwards the tubers are almost certain to decay ; they
should be well matured before they are finally stored away.

Polnsettlas. — If properly treated these should be of the sturdiest
description, and some care is needed not to excite them again into
growth. Soft growth made after this period is seldom sufficiently
ripened to produce large bracts of the finest colour. Very frequently
a mistake is made when these plants are removed from cold frames by
keeping them in too close and confined an atmosphere. Directly they
finish their growth more heat may be given to develop their bracts.
The same treatment applies to Euphorbia jacquiniaeflora.

Zxoras, — Plants that have but recently flowered should have the
most careful treatment. Their foliage must be free from insects, and
the plants exposed to every ray of light possible to harden their wood
before the winter. Plenty of air ought to be admitted, and a drier
atmosphere maintained ; but at the same time do not starve the plants,
or more injury than good will result. Syringe thoroughly once a day.

APIARIAN

NOTES.

Useful Hints,

At this season it is perhaps desirable to warn bee-keepers
against introducing queens, or joining swarms having two queens,
rashly. I admit that alien queens can be, and are, joined to a hive
safely without caging, and I could cite many cases where only a
second or two expired between the deposing of the queen regnant
and the introducing of an alien one which was well received ; but
the mishaps by reckless introduction which I am cognisant of are
by far too numerous to warrant me in advising the introduction of
queens without the use of a cage. It is the health and unmaimed-
ness of the queen that is conducive to profitable bee-keeping, and
in the absence of these a breakdown in the hive is sure to occur
sooner or later, and at a time when the loss is irreparable. There¬
fore use every precaution before introducing queens or joining
swarms together.

The balling of queens is, in my opinion, entirely due to stranger
bees ; at least, I have never witnessed a case otherwise. There are
different phases of balling, but the most prominent one is when the
bees favourable to the queen discover one or more fractious bees
they immediately ball her. If the disloyal bee or bees are kept
outside the queen is safe, but if one or more get near her she is
either maimed or stung to death. Therefore select a young
queen and cage her for twenty-four hours, releasing her at dusk.
Young bees at this season are doubtless not to be despised,
neither are much older ones ; both make capital stocks. It is the
care and judicious management of these that determine our future
success with either — not their age. One great thing with all
queens is to take care and not stimulate these to breed at this
season. All their strength and egg-laying power is best to be
conserved till spring, the season that is most required for profitable
bee-keeping.

If there is a paucity of bees in the hive containing a young
queen, it rather taxes the powers of an aged one (intended to be
deposed) to fill a few frames with brood, and place in the hive
containing young queen intended for stock. Hives that require
to be fed now, and not having a ventilating floor, should, imme¬
diately the feeding is past, have a clean dry board substituted, and,
indeed, should be continued at intervals throughout the winter. A
ventilating floor obviates all that, and conduces to having healthy
bees, and many of them.

Eobber Bees.

Robber bees are now on the alert. Keep a strict watch over
all weaklings, and contract entrances according to the strength of
the colony. Be careful neither to spill about nor expose syrup nor
feeders. These are the things that decimate the bees, and those
who have for years advised the autumnal stimulative feeding of
hives must have, in their ignorance of the proper management of
bees, practised some or all of the above. For many years it has
surprised me why bees required feeding in autumn to stimulate

breeding, when our own hives, as well as those in the whole district
were overflowing with bees. A clergyman of my acquaintance
used to say, “ Instead of requiring to feed to cause breeding I
would rather feed to reduce the population of the hives, as they
are by far too strong.” — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

•,*A11 correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor ” or to “ The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Solanaceous plant ^Somerset'). — Having seen a fresh speeimen
of the plant referred to last week, we are able to state that its name is
Nicandra physaloides.

Cucumber Classification (./. McLeod'). — If the disputants who
aver that the Cucumber is not a vegetable will exhibit a brace in a
collection of fruit they will receive a lesson that they will not be likely
to forget — namely, the disqualification of the collection. There is
no time for answering your other questions as we are preparing for
press.

Stationary Chrysanthemum Buds (<?, B. A.). — Cut off and

burn all the tops that contain buds such as you have sent, and which
have remained stationary for about six weeks. It is impossible they can
develop. They contain a destructive enemy, microscopical drawings
of which, by Mr. George Abbey, will shortly be published, and these,
with the narrative pertaining to the discovery, cannot fail to prove of
great interest to Chrysanthemum growers all over the world.

Tuberous Beg-onlas (IF. Clihran Sons). — The box arrived as
we are preparing for press. The flowers as a whole are very beautiful,
but many of them had separated from the stalks, the names thus
becoming detached. It was not so, however, with the single variety
oculata, small, single, with a clear white disc, very distinct and
pleasing. The double Golden Nugget is very rich and good. The
names were separated from the others, and mixed indiscriminately,
while the flowers were bruised and shaken through insufficiently close
packing,

Plantlngr Iillles of the Valley (JEnq^uirer). — The advice to
which you refer is sound. We have known them to grow very well
when planted in the autumn, also in winter, but the weather may be
such as to cause blanks and weak growth. The most extensive and
successful cultivators take pains in the preparation of the soil, and
plant when it is in the best planting condition in early spring. Flower¬
ing crowns are not the best for establishing permanent beds. The
Victoria Lily is a fine variety as grown by Mr. Henry Hawkins at
Twickenham.

Cider and Perry Refuse as Manure {J. IF., Pevshore). — One of
the best of British gardeners who resides in a perry-making district says
“ the must or refuse from perry and cider mills is useless as manure.”
“ Farmers,” he goes on to say, " take care to keep cattle from it, or they
would certainly eat it at great risk to life. There was a case last year
of a pig dying soon after eating a quantity. It very soon goes to
nothing on the land. Poultry are fond of scratching it over for the
‘ pips.’ These germinate freely on the heaps the following season, and
are planted out by some farmers to form stocks for grafting and
budding. I have seen it used for mulching newly planted fruit trees,
but it is not so good as short manure.”

Grapes Rusted and Shrivelled (^Enquirer). — No matter bow
much water you have given the border, if it still remain dry, as you
say is the case, it obviously has not had enough. It is impossible for
any Vines to produce any other than small ill-coloured inferior Grapes
in dry soil. If a thousand gallons are necessary for moistening the
soil they must be given, and after the border is moist, not before, a
liberal application of strong liquid manure would have a beneficial
effect. We suspect also there has been errors in management other
than letting the border get so dry, in respect to ventilation and general
routine. You cannot materially improve the Grapes this year, but you
may improve the Vines for future bearing, and this is necessary.

September 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

255

Kalosantbes cocclnea (J". G.'). — Water should be gradually with¬
held now and the plants placed in the sunniest position you can find.
Flower buds will then form in the tips of those shoots that are strong
enough. The plants should be kept dry rather than wet through the
winter. You ask if the “ number of shoots should be reduced and the
plants repotted ” without giving an idea of the number and character
of the growths or the size of the pots. Do not, however, shift them this
autumn, and thin out any growths that are weak and crowded. This
is all we can say in the absence of a description of the plants.

Celery lieaves Secaylngr QJ. TF. II.'). — Although the green
leaflets are spotted and the spots extend so as to destroy the tissue and
ultimately the stalk, there are no fungal threads surrounding the brown
spots on the green part, nor are there any bacterial germs between the
cell walls or in the cells. The stem with withered leaves is sound in the
centre, but the cells below the skin or epidermis are quite empty, and
as the cell walls are unpierced we conclude that the withering is due
solely to evaporation . The spots on the green leaflets appear to have
been caused by particles of nitrate of soda or some such substance
resting upon them. Bust at the roots is generally caused by an excess
of organic acids or the use of soapy manure at the bottom of the
trenches. Rust in the leaves and stalks is caused by a fungus, but there
is neither the Uredo nor Puccinia form of rust in the specimen examined.

Wlthholdlngr Water from Cattleyas (Y. J.). — Water should be
withheld gradually from these plants, beginning to do so as soon as the
pseudo-bulbs are fully developed and display signs of ripening, and
finally given only suflSciently often to keep the pseudo-bulbs from
shrivelling. How long water can be withheld depends largely upon the
house in which the plants are grown and the atmospheric con¬
ditions maintained as regards moisture. Simultaneously with a
diminished supply of water at the roots and moisture in the atmosphere
more light and air should be admitted to the plants. The Oncidiums
you mention are only of slow growth ; they do not under the best
systems of culture appear to increase materially in size. We prefer
to grow them in small baskets or pans, because they are less liable
to suffer by an insufficient supply of water during the season of growth.
If you place the plants in baskets do not take them off the blocks, but
insert them into the baskets and fill in with fibry peat and charcoal in
lumps. A little moss during the season of growth is also an advantage.
We should advise you to leave them as they are until the spring. By
no means should too much peat and moss be placed about the roots.
These plants do best suspended moderately close to the glass.

American Baldwin Apple Trees {G. G., South Wales). — This
Apple does not usually succeed in this country, except in warm soils and
sheltered situations. It does well on the oolite in Huntingdonshire where
the soil is of a warm silicious nature with gravel beneath, and it would
probably succeed in similar soil with a warm site in South Wales. The
Wshes are most likely to thrive, but it would have been better had they
been on the English Paradise instead of the Crab stock. Trees on that
«tock do not transplant so readily as those on Paradise, but there is no
danger of safe removal whilst the trees are young. Unless they have
grown vigorously and do not ripen the wood well it would not be
desirable to transplant them this autumn, though it may be done
another year if you wish to check growth and induce fruitfulness. The
tree intended for a standard ought to grow until it has formed a stout
stem to the required height, and then have the top taken off so as to
induce side shoots, keeping all but three at the upper part stopped with
the object of strengthening the stem. Gut the stopped growths away in
the autumn and shorten the three extension shoots to about 6 inches,
then by taking two growths from each the following year the formation
of the head will be laid.

DTames of Fruits. — Notice. — Special attention is directed to the
following decision, the object of which is to discourage the growth of
inferior and promote the culture of superior varieties. In consequence
of the large number of worthless Apples and Pears sent to this office to
he named, it has been decided to name only specimens and varieties of
approved merit, and to reject the inferior, which are not worth sendiyig
or growing. The names and addresses of senders of fruit to be named
must in all cases be enclosed with the specimens, whether letters
referring to the fruit are sent by post or not. The names are not
necessarily required for publication, initials sufficing for that. Only six
specimens can be named at once, and any beyond that number cannot
be preserved. (A’. Jordan). — 1, Quite rotten ; 2, Rotten ; 3, Beurre Diel ;
4, Quite misshapen ; 5, Rotten ; 6, Winter Greening. It is essential
that good sound typical fruits be sent, not blemished and decayed
specimens. {C. J. F.). — Fearn’s Pippin. (TF.i TF. TF.). — Warner’s
King. (5. TF. Fitzherbert). — 1, Cobham ; 2, Blenheim ; 3, character
undeveloped ; 4, Gloria Mundi ; 5, Alfriston ; 6, Trumpington, perhaps,
but an imperfect specimen, the others fine. (A. H. L,). — 1, Golden
Russet ; 2, Van Mons Leon Leclerc ; 3, Bergamotte Esperen ; 5, Napoleon.
These names are approximate, the character of the fruits not being
developed. (A. D.). — 1, Beurr(^ Clairgeau ; 2, Summer Franc Real ;
3, Rymer ; 4, Cellini ; 5, Greenup’s Pippin ; 6, Fearn’s Pippin. (A. B.). —
There is no character about the fruits sent. Some if not all are probably
local seedlings, and never had names. Nor are they worthy of being
distinguished and perpetuated. {Richard C. Long). — We are sorry to
disappoint you, but it is impossible for anyone to name fruits accurately
when their characters are quite undeveloped; The specimens you send,
most of which are inferior, are weeks if not months from maturity. If
the trees in your orchard are old several of the varieties will probably

not be worth naming. Those you send are, as a whole, much below
average merit. Your object is a worthy one. By far the best way
of improving the local fruit supply is to urge the planting of young
trees of approved varieties in the best soil and positions available.
{Andover). — Letter mislaid, but this reply will be recognised. The
very large red Apple is Tibbit’s Incomparable, and the Pear is a splendid
specimen of Souvenir du Congr^s. {J. U.). — Doyenne Boussoch.

{P. M,). — 1, Cox’s Pomona ; 2, probably local and worthless. {./. S. B.). —
1, Pitmaston Duchess. The others are quite hard and will not be in
condition for naming for some weeks. We have many times stated that
Pears should be sent when showing signs of ripening, as flavour is a
factor in determining their nomenclature.

Names of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
{J. G.). — Silvery-leaved plant, Alchemilla sericea ; berried shrub, Pyrus
(Aronia) probably a variety of arbutifolia ; trailing plant, Linaria
Cymbalaria. {Tom Jones). — Gongora Loddigesi. (A. B.). — 1, Impatiens
Hawkeri ; 2, Abutilon vexillarium. {F. B.). — Allamanda Hendersoni.
{L. P.). — Alschynanthus cordifolius.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

G. Bunyard & Co., The Old Nurseries, Maidstone, Kent. — Frxiit
Trees.

H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent. — Booh of Reference in Horti¬
culture,

Hogg & Robertson, 22, Mary Street, Dublin. — Bulbs for Planting in
Autumn and Sjyring.

George Phippen, Reading. — Bulb Catalogue.

Chas. R. Shilling, Hartley Nurseries, Winchfield, Hants. — Trees,
Shrubs, Roses, Fruit Trees, Plants and Bulbs,

Robert Sydenham, Tenby Street, Birmingham. — Unique Bulb List,
with '■' Hoic I Came to Grow Bulbs."

E. Webb & Sons, Wordsley, Stourbridge. — Selected Seed Corn.

OOVENT GARDEN MARKET.— September 13th.

Market still heavily supplied ; prices virtually unaltered.

FRUIT.

s.

d.

s.

d.

d.

s.

d.

Apples, per bushel .. ..

1

0 to 6

0

Peaches, per doz .

1

6 to

8

0

Cobs .

28

0

30

0

Plums, per half sieve

1

6

2

6

Grapes per lb .

0

6

1

6

St. Michael Pines, each , .

2

0

3

0

Lemons, case .

10

0

15

0

VEGETABLES.

s.

d

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

Beans, Kidney, per lb.

0

3

to 0

4

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2 to 0

0

Beet, Red, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

5

Carrots, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Parsley, dozen bunches ..

2

0

3

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . . . .

2

0

3

0

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Celery, bundle .

1

0

1

3

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

4

6

Ooleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Salsafy, bundle .

1

0

1

6

Cucumbers, dozen . . . .

1

6

3

0

Scorzonera, bundle . . . .

1

6

0

0

Endive, dozen .

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb .

0

3

0

0

Herbs, bunch . . . . . .

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel .

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch .

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

6

Lettuce, dozen .

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Mushrooms, punnet . . . .

0

9

1

0

AVERAUE WHOLESALE PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.
Orchid Blooms in variety.

8.

d.

8.

d

8.

d.

s.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms ..

2

0

to 4

0

Marguerites, 12 bunches . .

2

0 to 4

0

Asters (English) doz. bches.

3

0

6

0

Mignonette, 12 bunches . .

2

0

4

0

Bouvardias, bunch .. ..

0

6

1

0

Myosotis, dozen bunches . .

1

6

3

0

Carnations, 12 blooms

0

6

2

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

0

12

6

Carnations, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

9

0

Chrysanthemums, dozen

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

bunches .

4

0

6

0

bunches .

3

0

6

0

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis.

1

0

2

0

Primula (double), dozen

Cornflower, dozen bunches.

1

0

2

0

sprays .

0

6

1

0

Eucharis, dozen .

1

6

4

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

Roses (indoor), dozen

0

6

1

6

Lilium lancifolium, dozen

„ Red, doz. bunches ..

4

0

6

0

blooms .

1

0

3

0

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

0

Lilium longiflorum.perdoz.

3

0

6

0

„ Yellow, dozen .. ..

o

0

4

0

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

Tuberoses, 12 blooms.. ..

0

4

0

6

bunches .

4

0

6

0

PLANTS

IN POTS.

8.

d.

8.

d.

8.

d.

8.

d.

Arbor Vit® (golden) dozen

6

0tol2

0

Ferns (small) pr r liundred

4

0

to 6

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Ficus elastica, each . .

1

0

7

6

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

Foliage plants, var., each. .

2

0

10

0

Asters, dozen pots .. ..

3

0

6

0

Fuchsia, per dozen . . . .

4

0

6

0

Balsams, per dozen . . , .

3

0

6

0

Ivy Geraniums .

4

0

6

0

Campanula, per dozen

9

0

18

0

Lilian! lancifolium per doz. 12

0

18

0

Chrysanthemums, per doz.

4

0

9

0

Lilium Harnssi, per dozen

12

0

24

0

„ large plants, each

1

0

2

0

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

3

0

4

0

Dracmna terminalis, per

Marguerite Daisy, dozen ..

6

0

12

0

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Mignonette, per doz .

4

0

6

0

Dracffina viridis, dozen , .

9

0

24

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Euonymus, var., dozen ..

6

0

18

0

Palms, in var., each ..

1

0

15

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24

0

„ (specimens) . . . .

21

0

63

0

Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

4

0

18

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

2

0

4

0

256

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 14, 1893.

FARM HOMESTEADS.

When the Scotch farmers came south after Essex farms,
one of the first things asked for was additional farm buildings.
They, at any rate, wei’e fully alive to the importance of an
ample provision of shelter for their herds if not for their flocks ;
they had it, and it must have contributed greatly to the success
of their venture. In making such provision of outbuildings
that are absolutely necessary a landlord enables his tenant to
turn his holding to full account — aye, and to turn his live
stock to full account also. To an able man the concession is
positively more important than a reduction of rent, because it
enables him to do his best with the stock — to afford it pro¬
tection from cold and wet in winter, from extreme heat and
flies in summer. If it were possible to obtain a return of the
actual number of animals lost annually from exposure to wet
and cold we have no doubt it would astonish everyone connected
with agriculture. But though it is not possible the fact
remains that losses do occur frequently, the cause being usually
attributed either to black leg or to hoose, and probably wi'h
some truth, but exhaustion and low condition more often than
not induce disease.

Early in the present year we had a complete set of new out¬
buildings erected for a tenant in time to be of use to him during
iummer. On a recent visit we were delighted to see a number
of the best calves in the hovels that we had seen this season.
They had never been out, but had been kept in and reai’ed by
the grazier’s wife, and much credit are they to her. Nothing
could be more satisfactory than their sleek, healthy condition.
Home-hred and home-reared in the right way they are bound
to prove profitable, such animals always being in demand;
always commanding a price above, sometimes much above
ordinary market rates. For another tenant who milks thirty
cows a new house and set of outbuildings are to be built on a
holding of about 200 acres. This farm is worthy of mention as
a compact holding, recently arranged with an eye to general
utility. Its lower boundary is in the heart of a valley by a
road leading to a railway station, and the land stretches right
up one side of the valley to the hill top, where there is con¬
nection with another public road. The rich grazing land in
the valley is watered by a br. ok, and there are pools of sufficient
capacity in the upland meadows.

In selecting the site of the homestead water wa8 a primary
consideration. A boring tool failed to reach wa^er after several
trials; the brook was therefore turned to, the necessary levelling
showing that an hydraulic ram was practicable, so that by
means of it and a filter bed the homestead will be well supplied
with wholesome wa^er, a matter of even more than usual
importance, as this is a dairy farm, where cheese-making will be
the chief thing. To avoid all risk of taint the dairy and cheese
rooms will be on the north side, and the farmyard and out¬
buildings on the south side. On the ground floor there will be
an entrance hall, having on the north side a sitting-room,
behind which there will be a cheese-i’oom, binding-room, and
dairy ; on the south side will be the kitchen, connected by a
passage running past the larder to a back kitchen ; and at the
back of the house there will be a broad covered way from the
back kitchen to the dairy. The upper floor will have six bed¬
rooms, and will contain a bath-room ; in fact all necessaries to
form a comfortable, convenient house, without any superfluous
rooms. Water will be laid on, drainage well done, and the

whey will go through a pipe from the dairy to a cistern by the
piggeries.

The outbuildings will consist of a cow house for thirty cows ;
this will be a span-roofed building, with a passage down the
centre between the stalls. There will also be a loose box for
calving, two calf hovels, four large piggeries, stabling for three
horses, shed for store cattle, 18 feet wide, with the yard side
open, a meal-i’oom, chaff-room, granary, fowl house, and open
shed for carts and implements. The cost of such a homestead
depends mainly upon the building matei-ials, which range from
costly dressed stone downwards to simple s'ud and plaster,
representing two extremes, only desirable under stress of local
circumstances. There appears to be no material equal to
corrugated iron sheeting for cheapness, utility, and durability.
As roofing for a granary it is objectionable, because it becomes
cool with such rapidity of an evening that the moisture of the
warm interior air is condensed, and there is often so much
dripping of water from the roof upon the stores as to become a
nuisance.

WOKK ON THE HOME FAKM.

Frequently have we heard the remark that this has not been a
favourable season for the use of “artificials.” Our one failure was upon
some pasture where, owing to the draining, the chemical manure could
not be used till the drought had set in. But where it was used early it
answered well enough for pasture, and its beneficial influence upon root
crops was never more remarkable. Swedes, Mangolds, and Potatoes
have all thriven wonderfully, and we were not surprised to hear from a
correspondent to whom we recommended what we term our County
Council mixture, that he has a crop of Potatoes of remarkable
abundance, yielding a peck of tubers to a plant. With land made
thoroughly clean now and ridged by double-breasted ploughs, we can
next spring apply manure to the furrows, plant the Potatoes, and split
the ridges over them, feeling assured that the soil is well stored with
fertility. For Mangolds and Swedes the mixture may be sown broadcast
after the muck is placed in the furrows, a top-dressing of nitrate of soda
being applied after the plant is up and growing freely.

Let yards, hovels, and all means of shelter for cattle for winter be
now made ready for use next month. See that drains are in order, that
the water supply is ample, and that the surface of all inner walls is
limewashed. Litter is likely to be so scarce next winter that we advise
all home farmers to collect all the tree leaves they can, to get bracken
from the woods, and any sedges, rushes, or coarse grass that can be had.
Reduce the head of stock well within reasonable limits ; keep no unsound
or delicate animals through the winter ; calculate ways and means
closely, and prepare for a long hard winter. If the weather proves
mild and open so much the better ; but a prudent man makes provision
for the worst, and it is only in doing so that he can feel safe. We much
fear that heavy losses of young stock are likely to occur in the coming
winter, and so many are now in terribly low condition. We saw a
herd of thirty or forty calves a few days ago that had been bought
cheap I All of them were “ bags of bones,” and hardly any of them are
likely to live through the winter.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamdex Square, London.

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

Date.

9 A.M.

In the Day.

.9

p:^

1893.

September.

1 Barometer

1 at 32°, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday . .

3

(^•288

65-1

57-2

E.

61-0

72-9

52-3

119-8

46-1

_

Monday . .

4

30-239

58-8

56-1

E.

61-1

70-4

48-9

102-9

43 6

_

Tuesday . .

5

30-047

59 1

55-4

E.

60-2

78-1

46-1

108-4

40-4

_

Wednesday

6

29-860

64-4

58-0

S.

60-6

81 6

52-2

117-6

47-0

0-036

Thursday . .

7

69-7

64-4

W.

62-0

77-3

61-9

123-4

58-8

—

Friday

8

29-774

61-3

57-1

s.w.

62-1

69-2

52-9

1184

48-3

0-199

Saturday . .

9

29-908

56-6

51-1

N.

60-2

64-8

49-9

112-1

45 9

—

29-983

62-1

57-0

61-0

73-5

52-0

114-7

47-2

0-235

REMARKS.

3rd. — Pine and bright throughout.

4th. — Fog at 8 and misty at 9 A.ll., bright sun 9.35 and up to 1 r.M., then overcast ;
bright again after S p.m. ; fine night.

5th.— Bright and sunny throughout; fine night.

6th.— Bright early and up to 5 P.M., then overcast; fine evening.

7th.— Fine and bright at 9 A.M.. and during the morning; overcast at times in afternoon,
but generally sunny ; fine night.

8th.- Rain at 9 A.M.. bright sun 10 A.M., rain and slight thunderstorm at 11.45 to 0.30 ;
bright at 0.50, spots of rain at intervals in afternoon and much sun ; fine
night.

9th. — Bright sunny morning, but more or less dull during morning, fine afternoon and
evening.

Another generally fine week, with the temperature even higher than in the previous

one, and considerably above the average. — G. J. SviaoNS.

September 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

267

Not for many years past has such a favourable season for
growing Tomatoes in the open air been experienced as
during the summer now drawing to a close ; and never probably
has such a collection of varieties, or selections, been seen fruiting
together as in one of the trial grounds of Messrs. Sutton and
Sons, Reading. Nearly 200 reputedly distinct sorts, obtained
from various sources in this country, also from France and
America, have been grown under absolutely identical conditions
from beginning to end, the collection forming a veritable museum
of the beautiful, wholesome, and popular esculent. The plants
have been thoroughly well grown, too, throughout their career,
with the object of developing to the fullest possible extent their
leading characteristics ; and it has only to be stated that twelve
plants represented the minimum number of any variety, while of
some there were at the least five times that number, to show that
there were thousands in the aggregate, the whole forming some¬
thing like a forest of sturdy tree-like plants laden with scarlet,
crimson, and golden fruit.

There were, it may be truly said, Tomatoes oc all colours,
shapes, and sizes yet produced, from the miniature Currant
varieties, with elegant drooping racemes of coral-like berries or
yellow beads, to the huge corrugated American monsters, weighing
1 lb. or more. Mentioning these it may be well to dispose of
them at once. However they may be valued in the land of big
things they are clearly out-distanced according to our standard of
merit in Tomatoes by varieties which have been raised at home,
or at least improved by rigid selection. There is not one of the
newer Americans that is worthy of a place by the side of our
best varieties, while most of the older introduced sorts which
did good service in past years are out of date. However much
we are indebted to our transatlantic friends for teaching the
value of Tomatoes, and leading the way in their popularisation,
also furnishing us with improvements on the old stock, we are
now undoubtedly in advance in the question of varieties, and
growers who want the best obtainable have no occasion to go out
of England for them. That is a fact which no one can gainsay
who has examined carefully, and without prejudice, the great
Reading collection.

What there is in store for us from the “other side ” time alone
can tell, but we do not want varieties of rampant growth which
concentrate their resources on one or two unwieldy corrugations,
leaving a residue of clustered deformities in the struggle for
existence. We rather covet plants of sturdy habit and prolific in
smooth firm fruits, uniform in character from base to summit. If
large fruits are wanted for exhibition they can be had by a good
choice of English varieties, and such cultural methods as successful
growers adopt in thinning and supporting the crops. If medium¬
sized produce is preferred for market, say averaging about half a
dozen fruits to a pound, there is no difficulty in obtaining them,
nor is there any lack of small-fruited varieties for ornament and
use, or both combined. Plenty could be found for all purposes
in the great trial in question, as good, it may be safe to say, as
coull be procured from any part of the world, and whatever our
shortcomings may be in other respects, it is at least satisfactory
to feel that England is in the ascendant with Tomatoes.

Some catalogue illustrations that are published of plants bearing

No. 691. — VoL. XXVII., Thied Series.

clusters of fruit close to the ground are regarded by many persons
as exaggerations, and allegations have been heard of such plants
growing only in the artist’s brain. No doubt many hundreds of
persons have had the pleasure of inspecting the collection under
notice, and they would have no difficulty in finding row after row
in which the plants were bearing huge clusters of fruits so low
down that it would be difficult to place the hand under them with¬
out its coming in contact with the soil. That habit of bearing was
not the exception but the rule with some of the varieties, notably
Earliest of All, which justifies its name, and Main Crop, the bulk
of the clusters of large handsome fruits on this sturdy grower being
produced on the lower part of the stems from just above the
ground to a height of 2 feet. An acre of such plants and crop
would be worth at least £100 if the produce were sold for 2d. a
pound. Both those are outdoor varieties of sterling merit when
well grown during a favourable season, and there are not many
seasons in which the fruit of the former especially would not ripen
outdoors in appropriate positions if the plants were rightly pre¬
pared and managed. Errors in either or both those respects are
accountable for many breakdowns with Tomatoes outdoors and
under glass as well. Of that there can be no manner of doubt,
but it is one of the most difficult things in the world to make many
of those who fail believe it, and so much the worse for them.
They honestly think that everything which could be done has been
done when the plants or crops have failed, and are also thoroughly
convinced that whoever had attempted the work in the same house
or outside plot the same season must have failed also. They are
very much mistaken. Half the failures with Tomatoes even out¬
doors are the result of mismanagement, and a great deal more than
half of those under glass are brought about by the “cultivator.”
The sounder the methods of cultivation the less the liability of the
plants to fungoid, bacterial, or any other attacks.

In all the thousands of plants at Reading there was scarcely a
failure, except in some inherently weak varieties ; and if a plant
here and there of the strong should have “ gone off,” and been found
full of bacteria, white those near and all around remained healthy,
the victim would have been probably planted with the roots either
too dry or the soil in the pot a soddened mass. Many a so-called
mystery is traceable to a simple cause, and so-called small mistakes
often lead to great losses. As with individual plants so with a
houseful. Make an initial mistake, and the seed is sown of
ulterior collapse. The plants, when microscopically examined, are
found eaten up by some parasite or micro-organism, and the fiat
goes forth that these are the cause of the trouble. No ; in most
cases they were the results of some cultural mistake. The plants
were brought into a condition favourable to seizure, and were
seized. Microscopists who are not cultivators may not admit this
dictum, but cultivators who are microscopists take care not to
condemn it ; on the contrary, they urge the best of culture for pre¬
venting insidious attacks. Why were the Reading plants so healthy
and so heavily fruited down to the ground ? Because no mistake
was made by the grower, and the climatic conditions were favour¬
able to their prosperity. Under glass the climate is very much
what man makes it when he has the means at command, and out¬
doors, though he must take the climate as it comes, he may enable
his plants to withstand adverse conditions by good work in pre¬
paration, or render them liable to failure through erroneous methods.

The Reading practice is very simple but very sound. If the
cultivator were asked to describe it he would probably begin with a
few negatives ; — “Do not raise the plants too early and grow them
tall and tender for planting out, as if you do you will only at the
best get a few trusses of fruit at the top of lanky stems. Do
not add fresh manure to the ground in spring, but give what is
needed in the way of enrichment in the autumn, then the soil will
be fertile yet sweet at planting time. Do not plant deeply to
make tall plants look a little sturdy or to save stakes. Do not let
lateral growths extend, but pick them out as soon as seen to

No. 2347.— VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

258

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 21, 1893.

concentrate the resources on the main stem-leaves, and fruit, and do
not top the plants till they attain the required height.”

After telling you what not to do, he would, in his quiet firm
way, tell you what he does, and what others should do. “ Sow
thinly about the middle of March, and keep the plants growing
steadily and sturdily close to a glass roof, so that they will have
short- jointed stout stems and thick leaves. In due time gradually
inure them to the full exposure for which they are intended, and
which they should endure without a leaf suffering. Have them
dwarf when planted out towards the end of May, or when the
weather is safe, with the leaves resting on the ground, and they
will be ready for work forthwith. Though the plants are stout
enough to stand alone, yet as stakes will be needed provide them
at once, and there will be no root disturbance. See that every
plant is in the right condition as to root moisture, neither too dry
nor too wet, and plant shallow. The roots should be in the
warmest soil, and the deeper they are sunk in the ground the
colder is the medium surrounding them. We want them to start
growing at once, not stand as if paralysed for a month, thus losing
precious time that can never be regained. Forcing the growth
under glass too early in the season, to be chilled and checked
later, is exactly the wrong way ; it is a bad beginning, and we
have no right to expect it can lead to a good ending — healthy
plants bearing full crops of fruit for ripening as soon as the
weather will permit.” Such in effect is the routine, and it will be
conceded that it embodies sound cultural principles, and it certainly
answers well. The plants are grown a little more than a foot
apart, in rows 3 feet asunder, across a series of long narrow beds.
Each plant is confined to a single stem, and topped at a height of
about 3| feet, no laterals being allowed to extend, and, as produc¬
ing stem-leaves, and fruit alone, there appears to be no over¬
crowding, though some of the robust varieties were evidently not
amenable to such restricted culture in this country.

The collection is grown, like collections of everything else by
Messrs. Sutton & Sons, for testing varieties by comparison, selec¬
tion, and elimination. Those that succeed the best are retained,
come from whence they may, and endeavours are constant for
improving by selections from the best, and not without success.
For instance, there are several stocks or strains of Earliest of All,
but one stands out clear as the first and in every way the best, four
tiers of the huge clusters of fruit being completely ripe, the next
nearest having the fourth cluster changed, but not ripe. Bell’s
Defiance appears to be a good type of the variety named, but not
quite so early as the best selection. Then we have what seems
an absurdity in terms — an improvement on Perfection, the fruits
being deeper than those of the type, and the handsomest for exhibi¬
tion ; it will simply supplant the old form, and not presumably be
invested with a distinguishing name. “ Perfection ” means some¬
thing absolutely complete, not open to the smallest improve¬
ment, and the term “ degrees of perfection ” too commonly
used ought to be abolished. Returning to the varieties, for
size and beauty of fruit with productiveness Magnum Bonum,
perhaps, bears the palm, and it is undoubtedly a Tomato of high
excellence, also early. Al, too, is a noble and beautiful fruit, and
the crop was a valuable one. The three last named varieties, with
Main Crop, form a quartette of Tomatoes which it would be hard
to excel in size, symmetry, and brightness of colour.

But there are smaller red Tomatoes of note, of what may be
termed the Prelude type, as bearing the fruit not so much in
bunches as long racemes, but Prelude is too small. Abundance
excels it in being larger, and growers who desire a groat abundance
of medium-sized fruits for market may have them in this variety.
Conference partakes of this type in part, but the very bright and
rather small fruits are borne more in clusters. Not so those of the
comparatively new variety, Sutton’s Dessert, for the scarlet Plum¬
like fruits hang in distinct racemes a foot long. The plants were
objects of beauty, and Tomato connoisseurs who enjoy the fruit
in an uncooked state will have a treat in this distinct variety.

Amongst the large fruited yellow Tomatoes the handsomest was

perhaps Golden Perfection, in size and shape the fruit being exactly
like its scarlet precursor. It is more appropriate for growing under
glass than outdoors, and for weight of crop in the open it did not
by any means equal Golden Queen, of which handsome fruits were
bountifully produced. One more yellow Tomato must have
mention, the smallest of all, but charming in appearance and
excellent in quality. Golden Nugget. No one could see the plants
of this variety without being impressed by their beauty. The
fruits are like Golden Gage Plums, but brighter, and it was not in
the least difficult to find from twenty to thirty in a branching
cluster. The plants were laden with them, those on the fourth
cluster being quite ripe, a sufficient indication of earliness. A
nnmber of such plants in the London or any other parks or
gardens would create something of a sensation. Berry-bearing
plants are grown for decorative purposes under glass, and certainly
those of this golden- berried Tomato were strikingly ornamental in
the open air. This variety has received the maximum number of
marks of merit at Chiswick, and like the scarlet dessert sort
above noticed, is a distinct acquisition. The collection included a
number of other meritorious Tomatoes that cannot be named.
Such complete trials as the one in question, in which every variety
receives the best possible attention, are decidedly instructive and
worthy of recognition. — An Old Gkower.

SUMMER BEDDING DURING TROPICAL

WEATHER.

The summer of 1893 has been an ideal one for flower gardening
in all instances where good facilities for watering were provided
and made use of, but a disastrous one in those places where water
could be only sparingly given. Where the plants have been grown
under the most favourable conditions the majority of them have
done remarkably web, and an unusually long season of beauty has
been secured. Planting was accomplished early, and at the present
time (September 9th) the beds look brighter than I previously
remember them to have done at the same date.

This satisfactory state of affairs is doubtless due, in a great
measure, to the absence of heavy rains, which frequently start the
plants into strong growth never remarkable for floriferousness.
This is particularly noticeable in the case of Pelargoniums. At no
time throughout the summer have they made growth rapidly ;
indeed for some time after planting the weather was so tropical
that with the best attention in the way of watering they were
longer than usual in establishing themselves, but from the time
they began to flower freely till now the best varieties of Pelar¬
goniums have provided a continual display of attractive colours.
Large trussed varieties like Henry Jacoby and John Gibbons have
exhibited their true form ; plenty of sunshine and an almost entire
absence of rain favoured the full development of their enormous
trusses, which are undoubtedly attractive. Although I like these
bold trussed Pelargoniums, I am also fully alive to the great value
of the older varieties which bear a profusion of flowers, though the
trusses are small, for in dull or wet seasons these often make the
best display. As a bright scarlet I think there is none to eclipse
Vesuvius. Indian Yellow is another splendid bedder which for
years to come will keep alive the memory of Donald Beaton, its
gifted raiser. Large masses of this seen from a distance have a
unique and beautiful appearance, and its attractiveness is by no
means diminished on closer inspection. I know of no other bedding
plant which produces flowers of so peculiar, yet pleasing, a shade
of colour. This was recently described to me by an artist of
repute, as a true Indian pink.

Among Ivy-leaved varieties Madame Crousse still holds the
foremost place, making as it does good growth under conditions
not favourable to many plants, and producing at all times
abundance of flowers. The past season has suited it exactly, and
four large beds in the flower garden are still one mass of salmon-
pink colour. I find Mrs. Clibran Tropasolum, or Golden Harry
Hieover Pelargonium, form effective edgings for beds planted
with this variety, the slight lilac tint in the flowers is then
shown up to advantage. Two beds of Souvenir de Charles Turner,
edged with a broad band of Mrs. Perry Pelargonium, were
attractive early in the season. The bold trusses of deep rose-
coloured flowers borne by the plants in the centre of the bed
exhibited a marked contrast to the silver variegation of the edging.
There is, however, I think, no comparison between Madame
Crousse and Souvenir de Charles Turner Pelargonium ; the former
flowers freely all through the season, the latter grows strongly but

September 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

269

blooms only sparsely after the middle of August. I have this year
discarded Mrs. Pollock in favour of Black Douglas on account of
the more distinct bronze zone in the leaf of the latter. If a golden
variety were required I should give the preference to Crystal
Palace Gem. Those who have some difficulty in raising a sufficient
stock of Lobelias from cuttings will do well to obtain seed of
Sutton’s Dark Blue, which I have this season tried with results
that exceeded my expectations, the plants being so uniform in
both colour and habit as to leave little to be desired.

After the brilliant sunshine experienced throughout the summer
we might reasonably expect to hear of many failures with Violas,
but we are happy to record the fact that our own have continued
to flower for a longer period than they did last year. They have,
however, received enormous quantities of water, and unremitting
attention in the removal of faded flowers. This, together with
sweet rich soil and autumn or early spring planting, are the true
secrets of success in Viola culture. Two long beds of Countess of
Hopetoun (white) edged with a broad band of Lobelia, have
throughout the summer been extremely effective. Another
hexagon bed planted with Viola Yellow Boy, edged with Lobelia
and dotted opposite the angles with single plants of Heliotrope
Miss Nightingale, the centre being occupied with a Chamaerops
gracilis, supplied a novel and pleasing combination.

Among annuals the French Miniatum Marigolds have been
unusually good. Orange and Queen of Dwarfs I can strongly
recommend. The colours are very effective, and they flower
splendidly until the approach of frost. A fine pink variety of
Phlox Drummondi having a white eye is excellent for planting in
large masses. Cornflowers, Stocks, Zinnias, Gaillardias and Dian-
thuses have all rendered material assistance in keeping both beds
and borders gay, as well as in supplying cut flowers. Asters have
unfortunately been to a great extent a failure, the plants being
attacked by a minute fly in the early stages of growth, and where
insecticides were not speedily applied the subsequent growth
was unusually weak, and the flowers as a natural result small.
Notwithstanding a few failures, I am inclined to the belief that the
flower gardens of Britain will be long remembered for the brilliant
spectacle they have presented during the last three months. —
H. Dunkin.

PEARS VERSUS PEACHES.

“ Pears are infinitely better and more profitable than Peaches,
and we are therefore going to substitute the former for the latter
on all the suitable wall space in the garden.” Thus remarked a well-
known gardener to me a few weeks ago, and judging by the appearance
of the trees to which he pointed with evident pride he would be
perfectly justified in carrying out the proposed change. The young
Pear trees planted three years ago against a wall with a south
aspect were in vigorous health, bearing large stout foliage and a
heavy crop of magnificent fruits. The latter were swelling rapidly,
because they had been thinned and copious supplies of liquid
manure with ample surface dressings administered during the
hot weather. Pears of this kind are a credit to the grower, are
appreciated at the table of his employer, and if disposed of in the
market at a suitable period when there is no glut would doubtless
realise handsome prices, and prove a remunerative investment.
Such a testimony could hardly be given the outdoor Peaches. The
trees were old and weakly, having been grown in their present
position for perhaps thirty years, and during the greater portion
of that time had, according to my informant, failed to ripen the
wood or fruit properly. This season, of course, has been an
exceedingly good one for Peaches on walls, and in the case men¬
tioned the fruits although small were ripening early in August.
But this is an exception to the rule, and in all probability will not
occur again for some time, hence the gardener to whom I have
alluded still remains firm as regards his decision to substitute
Pears for Peaches.

Opinions vary, according to experience, as to whether Peaches
can be profitably grown on walls without the aid of glass, and it is
quite probable that among the numerous readers of this Journal
there are many persons who are quite ready to take up the cudgels
on behalf of this fruit. That good Peaches can be, and are, grown
on open walls in various parts of the country will be readily
admitted, and this, too, in spite of adverse seasons. To my know¬
ledge there are gardens where it is a rare occurrence for the open
air Peach crop to fail, no matter what the weather may be ; but
these, it need hardly be said, are situated in warm favoured
localities. Much, no doubt, depends upon the treatment given to
the trees and the soil in which they are growing, but instances
could be mentioned where, under the best management, failures
generally accrue, primarily through local surroundings and
climatic influences. In such cases, therefore, one might wisely
do away with the Peaches and plant Pear trees in their stead.

and the results, in nine cases out of ten, would be of a satis¬
factory nature.

To illustrate the various opinions regarding this subject, a few
cases in point might advantageously be ci^ed. In response to a
question as to the advisability of growing Pears in preference to
Peaches on walls in the open air, a gardener, who has charge of one
of the finest gardens in Yorkshire, wrote me as follows : — “I cannot
understand anyone in the north attempting to grow Peaches on
open walls when glass can be put up so cheaply. The Peaches on
the walls in these gardens did not pay for the labour of nailing.
In 1887 the Peach wall (a long one) was covered with glass — m
fact, a house 11 feet wide was erected, and since then it has been
heated. I have kept an account of the produce sold, which has
now more than paid for the whole outlay. Had the Peaches been
on open walls the returns would have been nil. I think Pears
would pay better on south walls, but then one must not grow many
varieties — something to please the eye is necessary. My experi¬
ence is that nothing would pay better than Pitmaston Duchess.
This variety is a good cropper, fruit large, and of excellent flavour ;
one has no difficulty in making 6d. each of first-rate fruit. Clapp’s
Favourite is another good showy Pear I can strongly recommend
for the purpose.” From the foregoing it will be seen that in this
instance Peaches are preferred so long as they can be grown under
glass, and then they prove remunerative, so much so as to pay in
less than five years for the outlay of erecting a house nearly
100 yards long. Against this it will be noticed that Pears are
recommended as being the more profitable on south walls, and
many gardeners who are struggling with Peaches in the open air
in northern or unfavourable districts will do well to bear this in
mind.

To go further afield, a case in Northumberland might be
mentioned. Some years ago perhaps one of the finest Peach walls
in the country could have been seen in the gardens at Howick Hall,
about forty miles north of Newcastle-on-Tyne, and situated on
the coast line. The wall is, or has been, heated by flues in the
old fashioned way, and many years ago, I am told, grand Peaches
were grown there. For a short period the trees were partly under
my charge, and in 1887, the last season I saw them, the fruit
ripened fairly well, and the earlier varieties coloured beautifully.
These, however, were by themselves in that respect, for although
the flues were sometimes slightly heated when dull weather
prevailed, the later varieties failed in ordinary seasons to ripen
the fruit properly, and the wood seldom finished as it should have
done. In consequence of this a change was proposed by Mr.
Inglis, the gardener, and Pears were substituted in the place of
some of the Peaches. This took place in 1887, and since then
no doubt more Pear trees have been planted against the south
walls with good results. In connection with this it may be men¬
tioned that whilst there I, acting under instructions, cut down
several old unfruitful Pear trees, and in the spring of 1887
grafted the stocks with other varieties. Writing me in February
last year Mr. Inglis said, “ You will remember grafting a Conseiller
de la Cour (Marechal de Cour) on the stocks against the south
wall. Last autumn, 1891, I gathered from those same grafts fruits
weighing 15 oz^. each. I also had Pitmaston Duchess weighing
18 ozs., which I consider good for the far north.” Fruits of this
weight are unquestionably good, and are, moreover, a credit to the
grower. There is at Howick a remarkably fine collection of hardy
fruit, and, notwithstanding the obstacles with which northerners
have to combat, Mr. Inglis can always manage to make a splendid
display with his Apples and Pears, Should this meet his eye, as it
probably will, a few remarks from his pen as to “ Pears versm
Peaches” would no doubt be appreciated by numerous readers of
the Journal, some of whom, perhaps, are not quite so successful in
hardy fruit culture in a northern county.

Coming south one might also enumerate numerous instances
where Peaches on walls in the open air are by no means a success, and
Pears are being planted in their places. One case in this latitude
will, however, be sufficient to prove that no apology is necessary for
bringing forward the subject. At Cadland Park, situated on the
shores of the Solent, aud where the soil is light and warm, the
Peaches for the most part on open walls this year, as they have
been apparently in previous seasons, are a failure. The trees a few
weeks ago when I saw them were comparatively leafless and the
fruit was poor compared to that grown in unheated houses. This
I would hasten to add was not the fault of the grower but rather
that of the climate ; and as before mentioned in these pages,
Mr. Garner, on taking charge in the spring of the present year,
with the tact of a good gardener, wisely decided “ to do away with
the Peaches” that were growing on a wall facing south east and
plant Pears. The trees were crippled owing to the fact that during
March and April the leaves, being exposed rather to the east winds,
usually become badly blistered, and thus the crop is annually
affected. If this occurs in a season like the present when there

260

[ September 21, 1893.

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

were but few cold easterly winds, it will be easily understood
what the condition of the trees must be under ordinary circum¬
stances. Pears in such a position would not suffer to this extent,
and others who have Peaches under their charge that do not
flourish so well as is desirable owing to an unfavourable site might
also consider the advisability of growing Pears in their stead. On
a wall facing due south at Cadland Park, Peaches, it might be
mentioned, will thrive, and on such it is proposed to grow them.
The surroundings in this pesition are exceptionally favourable to
their growth, and as in other southern gardens near the coast
success in their culture generally accrues if the trees are judiciously
managed, and they are protected from cutting winds.

Apart from the value of the fruit produced from Pear trees
and their adaptability for general cultivation, there are other points
which might be taken into consideration. Peaches are here to-day,
and to-morrow they are gone. In other words, the fruit cannot be
kept, after becoming ripe, for much longer than a week except in
an ice house, and then at the risk of losing its flavour. It matters
little how large a collection of Peaches is grown on the walls, the
season of ripe fruit cannot be prolonged beyond September. With
Pears it is quite different. A good wall devoted to Pears of early,
midseason, and late varieties will give a succession of choice fruit
from August till May inclusive — a period of ten months. What
more could be desired ? Looking at the matter from all points, it
will thus be seen that Pears weigh heavily in the scales against
Peaches in more ways than one, and those who are responsible for
tbe production of fruit of the highest quality will do well to
investigate the subject. Some readers may be inclined to think
that I am advocating the non-culture of Peaches in the open air,
but such is not the case. What I maintain is that in many gardens
a large amount of wall space is devoted to Peaches that might
more profitably and creditably be given up to choice Pears. The
former in ordinary seasons are, as a rule, a failure, or nearly so ; but
the latter would, under judicious management, invariably result in
producing an abundant crop of high-class fruit. Where Peaches
can be successfully grown in the open air by all means continue
their culture, and if plenty of wall space is forthcoming Pears as
well may be cultivated ; but when the space is limited and the
Peach crop uncertain, I should unhesitatingly advise the growth
of Pears on south walls. Much more might be said in support of
my contention, but the experiences of others would be interesting
before proceeding further. — C.

AUTUMN TINTS AT HAMPTON COURT.

Histoeically, peihaps, Hampton Court Palace is as interesting as
any public place in or near the metropolis, and for this reason it is a
popular resort for Londoners. As is generally well known the Palace
and its pleasant grounds are situated on the banks of the River Thames
at a distance of about fifteen miles from London, and during the summer
thousands of people go there by boat and rail, the latter starting from
Waterloo, being the speediest method of travelling. If the visitor enters
from Teddington he has to pass through a celebrated avenue of Chestnut
trees in Bushey Park, and these when in bloom form a most pleasing
sight. The same applies to the whole surroundings in the autumn, for
at the present time the leaves of many trees are assuming tints of
various hues that cannot fail to attract the attention of everyone who is
interested in Nature.

There are many things to be seen at Hampton Court, and of these the
horticultural department is by no means the least important. Summer
is doubtless the best time to pay a visit to the beautiful grounds, for
then the bedding is at its best, and in this respect Mr. Graham, the
superintendent, can hold his own. His skill has for so many years been
conspicuous here that no one looks for other than good taste in the
arrangement of flowers and plants at Hampton Court, and this fact
is known throughout the country. This year there is no exception to
the rule, and although my visit this season was inadvertently delayed
until Monday last, there was then much to note in the way of good
bedding. The summer flowers are for the most part over, but the
numerous autumn tints are quite as interesting if not so showy, and
if some of the beds at the end of September are past their best it can
easily be seen that they were really beautiful earlier in the season.

The principal bedding is to be seen in the public pleasure gardens
which are situated in front of the Palace. These are about seventy
acres in extent, and between them and the building is a magnificent
terrace or gravel promenade which is at least half a mile long and
36 feet wide. Parallel with this are two borders filled with miscellaneous
plants, and on the opposite a continuation of beds of various shapes
and sizes. The borders alone are worth a visit, for they contain many
fine masses of plants, the arrangement of which is consistent with other
good features about the place. One of the borders is devoted to hardy
plants and the other to sub-tropical bedding. The former just now is
very gay with clumps of Helianthuses, Phloxes, and Dahlias, the front
part being occupied by a row of Crystal Palace Gem Pelargoniums with
an edging of blue Violas and Dactylis glomerata variegata planted alter¬

nately. The blue flowers of the Violas form a pleasing contrast to the
variegated Grass. The wall at the back is covered with Clematises,
Roses, the Canary Cr«eper (Tropseolum canariense) and other climbing
plants. The sub-tropical plants in the other border are likewise well
arranged, and form quite a feature in themselves.

Among the beds opposite the borders alluded to are some very choice
arrangements. Daring the present year I have seen many beds in
public and private gardens, but few to surpass those under notice.
Notwithstanding the dry season the plants have flourished well and
bloomed profusely, the Pelargoniums being especially fine. Tuberous
Begonias have apparently been ladened with bloom, which is rather an
exception to the rule this year, and they are yet yielding an abundance
of flowers, bright and rich in appearance on a dull autumn day. A
large oblong bed near the entrance from the Kingston Road, at the left
end of the terrace, is particularly showy. This is filled with miscel¬
laneous plants, which include three large Abutilons with rich yellow
foliage, Zea japonica variegata in the centre, the remainder of the bed
being occupied by Marigolds, Stocks, Zonal Pelargoniums, and Zinnias.
The last named plants are remarkably good, the blooms being fine

and brightly coloured. An edging of Alyssum maritimum variegatum and

Echeverias complete the arrangement. Close by a bed of Abutilon
Thompson!, with Petunias, Ageratum, and an edging of Gnaphalium
lanatum makes a good display ; and the same may be said of early flower¬
ing Chrysanthemums, which occupy a square bed, as well as other places.

Some other beds of different shapes, and borders are not by any
means unattractive at this period. One border filled with standard
Roses, amongst which Cannas, Dahlias, and single Petunias are planted,
is specially pleasing. Two beds of Roses with a groundwork of Lady
Molesworth Heliotrope, a fine dark variety, are deserving of notice, not
for their brilliant appearance, but the delightful fragrance they emit.
A bed composed of scarlet Pelargoniums (Vesuvius), with a row of the
variegated Mangles! next to an edging of Cannell’s Dwarf Ageratum
shows up conspicuously. The Ageratum is one of the brightest blues I
have seen, and besides being dwarf is very floriferous. A small
collection of succulents tastefully arranged commands attention, as also
do the groups of foliaged plants which are placed in the turf.

Another bed that is exceptionally bright for the autumn is one
filled with a variety of plants. The bed is oblong in shape, and in the centre
are three Dracmnas, around each of which is a ring of Coleus Verschaffelti.
The centre ring is filled with double scarlet Pelargoniums laden with
blooms, and the others with Mrs. Pollcck Pelargoniums. Between the
rings are some Marguerites, Fuchsias and Begonias, all flowering grandly.
An arrangement of white Tuberous Begonias and pale blue Violas with
an edging of Echeverias is noticeable for its chasteness rather than
brilliancy ; and several beds filled with blue Violas and Flower of the
Spring Pelargoniums, with Iresine Herbsti for an edging, also command
attention. Begonia Worthiana (tuberous) is a favourite plant here, and
it is seen to advantage in several beds. The centre of one large bed is
filled with this Begonia covered with blooms, and these show w’ell
against a margin of Coleuses and yellow-leaved Pelargoniums. As an
edging to some of the borders Begonia Worthiana is also used, and for
this purpose it is admirably adapted. Among the numerous Zonal
Pelargoniums used, Tom Bowling is most conspicuous, the large trusses
of this variety being very showy.

A word must be said in regard to the carpet bedding. This is not
practised very extensively, and perhaps wisely, but it is done well.
The designs are excellent and clearly defined, the plants being kept well
within bounds. Carpet bedding is usually seen to advantage in the
autumn when many of the flowering plants are past their best, and such
is the case at Hampton Court. A long spell of hot dry weather brought
out the colours of the Alternantheras and Coleuses to perfection, besides
being conducive to a sturdy growth. One huge bed is laid out in
squares, each portion being occupied with a different kind of plant.
Alternantheras, Echeverias, Mesembryanthemums, and other plants
generally employed in carpet bedding are used, and the whole forms a
novel feature. There are, I believe, about sixty squares in the bed.
Another carpet bed with a Maltese cross of Echeveria Peacock! and
Sempervivum montanum in the centre is particularly good, and the other
portion of the design being worked out by Alternantheras in variety,
Mesembryanthemum, and Echeverias.

In addition to the principal borders, to which allusion has already
been made, there are others which deserve more than a passing notice.
One filled with Dahlias, early flowering Chrysanthemums, and Aster
bessarabicus is remarkably showy for the time of year, and it is worthy
of imitation. The Dahlias at the back are full of flower, the same
applying to the white and cream coloured Chrysanthemums, whilst the
edging of A. bessarabicus is literally one mass of bright purplish blue
blossom. It is almost impossible to form a more attractive border in
the autumn, and such might well he seen in every garden.

Much more could be said in regard to these beautiful grounds, but
space forbids further details. These notes would, however, be even
more incomplete than they already are without a reference to the
famous Black Hamburgh Vine. This at the present time is showing
signs of autumn, for more than half of the large number of bunches
which it has borne this year have been cut, and the leaves are beginning

September 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE ANT) COTTAGE GARDENER.

261

to put on their autumnal tints. The bunches are medium in size and very
even, whilst the berries are large and well coloured. Tbe noted Orange
trees, too, which stand on the terrace at one end of the palace have a
history which is interesting to many visitors. The trees are in huge
tubs, the majority of them of a healthy appearance, and some producing
fragrant blossom. — Observer,

ORCHARD PLANTING NEAR DENVER.

To your many readers who are connected directly or indirectly with
horticulture, the following account of what is now going on around this
city will doubtless be interesting as showing the large and effective scale
on which fruit tree planting is conducted in Colorado. I have
previously said that so recently as 1863, William Lee, a native of
Croydon, Surrey, England, planted the first Apple trees in Colorado, a
few miles from the then frontier village of Denver, having brought them
by waggon 700 miles across the plains from Iowa City, Iowa, the then
nearest railroad point. To-day Denver has over 150,000 inhabitants,
and is the centre from which radiates a system of railroads aggregating
26,893 miles, while there are at least 12,900 acres already planted with
fruit trees in Colorado, and the area is annually being increased. For
instance, about eight miles south-east of Dsnver one company in the
spring of 1892 planted 48,000 standard fruit trees, besides Black¬
berries and Raspberries, on 540 acres, and this year the same
company planted 35,000 standard fruit trees, and 112,000 Black¬
berries and Raspberries, on an adjoining 450 acres. The land is laid
out in 5 acre tracts, each containing approximately 421 trees, viz.,
210 Apples, 135 Pears, 10 Cherries, 50 Plums, 16 Prunes, 10 Apricots,
besides 10 Grape Vines, 625 Raspberries, and 625 Blackberries.

The trees comprise only varieties which years of experience have
proved suitable and highly profitable in the vicinity of Denver, such
as : — Summer Apples, Yellow Transparent, a Russian variety. Autumn
Apples, Alexander, Haas or Fall Queen, a variety which originated near
St. Louis, Missouri ; Jeffries, a splendid variety of Pennsylvania origin ;
Red Beitingheimer, a German sort, very large and beautiful ; and
Wealthy, which originated near St. Paul, Minnesota. Winter Apples,
Babbitt, a “ coming Apple,” originated in Illinois ; Jonathan, McIntosh
Red, Pewaukee, originated in Wisconsin (raised from tbe Duchess of
Oldenburg), Shackelford, which a few years ago took the first prize at
the Illinois State Horticultural Society as “ the best new Apple,” and
is said to be the best market Apple produced in Colorado up to this time.
Tolman’s Sweet, Wagener, Walbridge, and Wolf River.

Pears. — Bartlett, Duchesse d’AngoulSme, Louise Bonne de Jersey,
Beurre d’Anjou, Flemish Beauty and Mount Vernon, a new American
Pear, the very best of its season, a seedling of Winter Nelis. Cherries. —
Early Richmond, Ostheimer, a late Cherry taken from Germany to
Spain in 1814, and brought from there to Kansas ; small trees of this
variety near Denver have borne two quarts of Cherries each in less than
fourteen months from planting ; Montmorency Ordinaire, Suda Hardy,
a very late variety originated in Louisiana. Plums. — Imperial,
McLaughlin, Shippers’ Pride, Early Red, and Lombard. Apricot. —
North American. Grapes. — Moore’s Early and Worden. To the south
of Denver 370 acres of land were planted this spring with 26,000
standard fruit trees, 30,000 Raspberries, 32,000 Blackberries, and 1000
Moore’s Early Grape Vines. A few miles east of Denver, 260 acres
(reached by electric street car line, and having water mains, school,
and electric lights) are being planted in a similar manner, and 580
acres adjoining will be planted by the same persons next spring.
On the same avenue another 160 acres has been laid out in 5 acre
tracts for suburban homes, and is being planted with standard fruit
trees. Blackberries and Raspberries as above, together with 2000
Grape Vines, comprising such varieties as Brighton, “ the finest Red
Grape ’’for the West ; Concord, “ the popular market Grape ; ” Diamond,
a very hardy Grape, a cross between Concord and Iona ; Lindley, a Red
Grape specially adapted for Colorado and Kansas ; Martha (White
Concord), Moore’s Early, the best very early Grape ; Salem, a coppery
red Grape ; and Worden, the best of the Concord seedlings, and
probably the best black Grape in the United States.

One firm has undertaken for the various owners the planting of
the above mentioned 1240 acres with 100,000 standard fruit trees,
165,000 Blackberries and Raspberries, and several thousand Grape Vines.
The stock is all obtained from the old and reliable firm of Stark Bros.,
nurserymen, Louisiana, Missouri, about 1000 miles east of Denver, which
firm was established in 1835.

The special feature of the above fruit planting enterprises is that the
6 acre tracts are for sale on easy instalments extending over five years,
the vendors caring for and [cultivating the trees for five years without
charge, and guaranteeing 90 per cent, of living trees at the end of that
time. In this way the wear and tear and worry of the cultivation is all
assumed and carried out by the vendors and paid for by them. Of course
if a purchaser wishes to pay cash down he gets a discount. The land
between the trees (which are planted 30 feet apart in rows 30 feet
asunder) will grow large crops of Potatoes, Tomatoes, Hops, Cucumbers,
Squash, Beans, Cabbage, Beets, Melons, Celery, Onions, and other
vegetables, or can be used for poultry purposes.

At first sight it would appear that fruit growing near Denver is
likely to be overdone, but such is not the case, inasmuch as the local
market is unequalled, for the reason that less than 20 per cent, of the
fruit consumed in Colorado is as yet grown in the State, the balance
being shipped from California, Texas, Missouri, and other distant points,
and sold at high prices. Denver, besides its own consumption of fresh

fruit and vegetables and the needs of the local canning factories, is the
great distributing and supply point for a large area, including mining
communities in the mountains at from 8000 to 11,000 feet altitude ; and
the fruit and vegetable grower and poultry farmer near Denver can load
his produce into a waggon, drive into the city, sell for cash, and thus save
the freight and middleman’s profit, which he would have to pay were
he further from the market.

Some of the prominent fruit and vegetable growers near Denver are
Englishmen who have for years past practically demonstrated what can
be done here, and at no distant date the vicinity of this city will become
as famous for its orchards and fruit gardens as Kent, Devonshire,
Hereford, or the Vale of Evesham.— Thomas Tonge, formerly of
Manchester, England.

CYCLOBOTHRA AMCENA.

This is an exceedingly pretty Cyclobothra, and when exhibited by
H. J. Elwes, Esq., Colesbourne, Gloucestershire, at the Drill Hall, West¬
minster, on May 9th of this year, the Floral Committee of the Royal

FIG. 37. — CYCLOBOTHRA AMCEXA

Horticultural Society deemed it worthy of a first-class certificate. The
flowers are of a pale rosy mauve shade, with three dark blotches in the
centre of each. The sepals and petals are rather long and narrow, the
latter being twisted, and they are hirsute. The anthers are white,
which renders the flower more conspicuous. Fig. 37 represents Cyclo¬
bothra amoena.

THE WEM PEAS.

Wem, a quiet little town about twelve miles from Shrewsbury, is
now fast becoming a familiar name with horticulturists, and has become
celebrated as the scene of Mr. Eckford’s present labours in the improve¬
ment of the Sweet Pea, and the culinary Pea also. Some 6 acres of land
has been devoted to Peas at Wem, for the purpose of thoroughly testing
his new varieties and securing a supply of seed to be grown in large

262

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 21, 1893.

quantities in Essex, where several acres are also devoted to the culture
of his Sweet Peas only, so great is the demand for seeds for home use
and export to America and other parts of the world. The different
varieties are sown thinly in rows in March, and when in full bloom they
form a grand sight. Great care is taken that any plant not in its
character should be allowed to remain mixed with the true variety.
The rows are about 6 feet apart, so that an abundance of air is admitted,
and there is plenty of space for a constant inspection of the plants, to
detect any sport or “ rogue.”

Mr. Eckford is aiming at producing a yellow Sweet Pea, as well
as a blue, and I think I may predict that this wilt be obtained some day,
for in Primrose there is a shade of yellow, and this is being worked out
further ; and in Countess of Radnor and Emily Eckford we have a very
near approach to a blue coloured Sweet Pea. The following new
varieties not yet sent out will be weleome acquisitions to those fine sorts
already in cultivation : —

Dnehess of York. — White, deeply striped and barred with pink ; a
pleasing shade of colour, and a large flower of perfect form.

Du]<€ of York. — The standard is bright rosy pink, with a primrose
tint in it. The wings are primrose, tinted white, and it is a distinct,
fine variety.

The Belle. — The standard is splashed with rosy pink, and the wings
with rose and blush. A charming variety, and will be a favourite.

3feteor. — Bright orange tinted pink, flushed with scarlet, and a
violet tint which deepens to the centre. A bright, rich distinct variety
of great beauty.

Eliza, Eckford. — The standard pink-tinted blush, with a rosy purple
stripe, and splashed with pink towards the edges, varying in colour at
times ; the wings are creamy white. A very distinct and attractive
variety.

Excelsior. — The standard is orange red, the wings a magenta red,
rich and bright in colour ; flower large and stout.

Frincess May, — White striped, and flaked with delicate pinkish
purple and fine.

Countess of Aberdeen. — White, delicately tinted towards the edge of
the standard with soft pink, and with blush tinted wings ; a charming
var.ety.

Mrs. Chamberlain. — White, striped, and flaked heavily with bright
rose ; very striking and pretty.

Novelty. — Orange, tinted rose standard, and the wings of a delicate
mauve colour, lightly margined with rose, and very bright.

Blanche Burpee. — Wings and standard creamy white, large and
stout in texture ; a fine variety, named by Mr. Eckford in honour of an
American lady.

Of varieties already sent out, Mrs. Sankey is an unsurpassed white
of the finest quality ; Orange Prince is very distinct ; Cardinal, brilliant
scarlet crimson ; Isa Eckford, The Queen, and Apple Blossom are all
very pretty. Imperial Blue is a fine blue-tinted mauve, and Splendour
is of the finest form and rich in colour. Lottie Eckford is as yet very
little known, but is very distinct and handsome, resembling the old
variety Butterfly, white, slightly margined with blue. Countess of
Radnor, Her Majesty, and Dorothy Tennant are three superb varieties ;
and Mrs. Eckford, a delicate primrose tinted white, is a charming
variety. Lemon Queen is very distinct, and Monarch, Senator, Mrs.
Gladstone, and Princess Victoria should be in every collection. Of the
new varieties distributed this year. Firefly, Venus, Lady Penzance, and
Blushing Beauty are all beautiful. Emily Eckford is extra fine, and
very nearly a blue, Stanley is a very rich coloured, deep velvety
maroon colour, and extra fine. Ovid is a flower of great beauty, truly a
gem, and bright in colour. Royal Rose and Peach Blossom are two very
pretty rosy pink-tinted flowers.

Culinary Peas.

The old Ne Plus Ultra has for a long time been Mr. Eckford’s
standard variety for breeding from for its excellent flavour and full
blunt-ended pod, and trying to get very productive early varieties
of much shorter habit with finer pods, but retaining all Ne Plus Ultra’s
good flavour. An inspection of the Wem seedlings through the growing
season gives ample evidence of successful results, and many seedlings are
discarded because not up to Mr. Eckford’s high standard of excellence,
and yet are very excellent Peas. These seedlings have to be grown for
three or four years to get their true character firmly set by hard “rogue-
ing” out of every plant not possessing the true characteristics of the
variety, and then t > be grown in sufficient quantity for sending out. A
new variety named Aston Gem when sent out will be a great acquisition,
and grows 3 feet high ; a late blunt-ended pod ; a wrinkled Marrow of
Ne Plus Ultra breed, with long, large, handsome well-filled pods, and
a heavy cropper from the root upwards. This is in every way a very
fine Pea.

Critic. — This is a thin strawed Pea, the foliage not being so heavy as
on many others, but it is a very fine market variety and for general use ;
blunt-ended pod ; a midseason Pea, growing 5 feet high, coming into
bearing quickly, and of first-class flavour.

i '%,Colossus. — A profuse cropper ; a second early wrinkled Marrow,
growing 5 feet high, and of first-class quality.

Wem. — A wonderfully fine variety with blunt ended pods, which are
long and well filled, a Ne Plus Ultra seedling producing heavily from
bottom to top and from 4 to 5 feet high.

Bears a close resemblance to Wem, but has a deeper green
pod, and is a first-class variety.

Epicure.— Ysiqxq were several long rows of this excellent Pea
snowing its free bearing qualities. It is a green wrinkled Marrow with

large deep green pointed pods, with an average of ten peas in a pod, and
of first-class quality. Height about 5 feet.

Juno. — A very dwarf- variety and most prolific. A fine late Marrow¬
fat Pea.

Armorial. — This variety grows 4 to 5 feet high, has a very long
blunt ended pod, with peas of a large size. A splendid exhibition Pea,
as well as being first-class for general use.

Chieftain. — Long handsome slightly curved pods, with from ten to
twelve peas in a pod, of dwarf habit and a profuse bearer, the plants
having an abundance of pods from the bottom upwards, and the flavour
excellent.

Censor. — This variety was to have been sent out last spring, but the
stock being limited it was withheld until next winter. It is a deep
green wrinkled Marrow, growing 3 feet hieh, very fine pods, and a
valuable main-crop variety for productiveness and high quality.

Superabundant. — A dwarf Pea, an immense cropper of the first
quality. A grand market variety, and bushy plants 2 feet and more
through of this kind showed up its productiveness.

Consummate. — Another high-class Pea, about 2J feet high, with
large pods, most productive, and of the best quality. Useful for market
gardens.

Other first-class varieties were to be seen, but enough has been said
to show the kind of new Peas emanating from Wem. The seeds of
culinary Peas are sown very thinly, and then the true character of each
variety is seen, and heavy crops of well matured pods are secured.
New Peas sent out by other raisers are grown at Wem for comparison in
order to fairly test them. Mr. Eckford freely acknowledges merit in
the productions of others, but I may safely say that by careful hybri¬
dising and judicious selection the Wem Peas will be only surpassed by
others of very high class quality and superiority in other respects, and
this will be no easy matter. — W. D.

EXPERIMENTS WITH SHANKING GRAPES.

Fortunately I have not had much Grape shanking to contend
with, but I have seen the evil and destruction it has caused in several
instances, and my sympathy was very much with the growers who had
charge of the Vines. Of all the ills to which Vines are subject I think
shanking is the worst, with the exception of phylloxera. Each season up
to a certain point the Vines may appear in the best of health, and all goes
well until the unfortunate moment arrives and destruction of the crop
sometimes follows in a very short space of time.

What produces shanking, and how can it be cured ? I have heard
some say the mischief proceeds from the roots being in a cold and
unhappy state, others that sudden changes of temperature encourage it,
and now the question arises, does thinning the bunches have anything
to do with it ?

The first of these supposed causes I believe is the principal one, or
this and the second combined ; but I should certainly think the last has
nothing whetever to do with the matter. I quite agree with the Editor’s
footnote on page 238, that Mr. Richardson may yet have Grapes free from
shanking if he follows the treatment he has adopted with success so far
if he thins the bunches. It would have been more interesting to readers,
and I fancy a decided gain to the grower, had Mr. Richardson carried
his experiments a little farther, and, coupled with the generous treat¬
ment to which the Vines previously were strangers, carefully thinned
the bunches on every other Vine ; he would have seen at a glance if the
scissors had in any way assisted in the wholesale shanking, which I am
inclined to doubt very much.

Mr. Richardson does not tell us which border he fed, inside or
out ; and in wishing him every success with the work he has in hand, I
cannot help thinking there may be another cause which may in a great
measure account for less shanking this season than formerly — viz , the
tropical summer we have had.

I think it is pretty generally understood that anyone would expe¬
rience considerable trouble in keeping a narrow inside border full of
healthy feeding roots without constant attention to watering and feed¬
ing regularly and freely, which the Vines in question did not receive,
especially so w'hen the same Vines had unlimited root run outside. In
fact, I should be a little surprised to find any roots in such a border
under the conditions mentioned.

Now perhaps the excessive heat this summer has been such as to suit
the roots in the outside border ; at least, I should think they were in a
happier state than in ordinary summers, or, in other words, has not these
outside roots been too deep and too cold previously for the well doing
of the Vines, hence the shanking ? and has not the great heat coupled
with generous treatment been the cause of bringing the roots nearer the
surface with beneficial results ?

In many localities where the subsoil is good and warm. Vine roots
travel both a great depth and distance, and seem to revel in it ; but I
doubt if that would be the case at South Shields or the neighbourhood
by what I can remember of the locality.

I cannot believe that not thinning the bunches this season has as¬
sisted Mr. Richardson much in his improvement of the Grapes in his
charge. If thinning assisted shanking in any way we s’nould see a
great deal more than we do, and thinning is sometimes done in a rough »
and ready way.

A good bunch of Grapes can be easily spoilt with the scissors unless
the operator knows what he is about, and no doubt much harm is often
done by delaying the work too long, and if done clumsily or with blunt
or rusty scissors each berry taken off leaves a wound, which does not

September 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

263

always stop at the footstalk. It M'ould be interesting to hear how your
correspondent succeeds next year, but my idea for the prevention of
shanking is this — induce the roots near the surface or in an inside border,
and keep them there by constant feeding winter and summer. — E. P.,
Impney. _

Anything that is written on the culture of Grapes is always
interesting to old and young alike. Shanking of the fruit is a disease
which causes much trouble, and in my opinion the problem is by no
means solved. Shanking is not caused by one thing only, and Vines
must be treated according to what is thought to be the cause of the
disease, and it becomes the gardener in charge to put his head to work
to find this out. Shanking of the footstalks first appears just as the
berry is colouring, continuing to the time the Grapes are ripe. Some
will shank even then, but these berries will be almost as sweet as the
rest of the bunch.

Absence of calcareous matter in the border, and the roots in the cold
subsoil, have been attributed as the causes of the evil ; but overcropped
starved rods which have not swelled according to their age with long spurs,
obstructing the sap, over-richness of borders where they are new, bad
ventilation while the Vines are in bloom, and hurrying them while
stoning, have something to do with it in several cases.

With regard to Mr. Richardson’s case, he has done the right thing in
lifting the roots, but I fail to see the advantage of not thinning the
berries. If his rods have not swelled according to their age, he would
obtain better fruit by running up young rods, not leaving too much
length of rod the first year or two. He should feed the Vines well,
fork the borders only once so as not to disturb the surface roots, and
give a good coat of either stable or cow litter, letting it remain until
the crop and laterals are ripe. — F. G.

I PAIL to see in what way the thinning of bunches of Grapes (when
carefully done) should tend to the shanking of the retained berries as
suggested by Mr. Thomas Richardson (page 238). Under the treatment so
clearly described in the third and fourth paragraphs of Mr. Richardson’s
letter it is only reasonable to assume that had the number of bunches
this year been reduced to seven or twelve on each Vine, according to its
strength, and the berries thinned to about 1 inch apart, the result would
be much more satisfactory than the magnificent (?) crop referred to by
your correspondent.

The improvement in the vigour and general condition of Mr.
Richardson’s Vines ia not to be attributed to the fact of his having
“ dispensed altogether with che thinning scissors,” but is traceable to
the good resulting from the removal of the old worn out soil, and adding
a more substantial and congenial admixture of “ chopped turf, half-inch
bones, and old lime rubble,” and the subsequent top-dressings of cow
manure, and applications of the “ undiluted drainings of a cowshed.”
The fact is the Vines are now bearing evidence of the good they have
derived from the change of fare. There is no reason why the Vines
should not continue to yield good crops of creditable Grapes for several
years to come. However, the Vines being very old I would suggest to
Mr. Richardson the advisability of taking a young rod up, stopping the
leading growths at 3 feet, and pinching out the laterals. In this way
new rods may be secured in three or four years without interfering
with the annual crop of Grapes, except by improving it, as the lower
spurs may be cut clean away from the old Vines up as far as the
shortened back young rods extend, these being allowed to bear a few
bunches, say two the first year, four the second year, six the third, and
eight or nine the fourth year, the old rods being then cut out at the
fall of the leaf.

Means should also be taken to confine the roots of the Vines in a
strip of border about 6 or 7 feet wide at the most, keeping them near
the surface by top-dressing and liberal applications of liquid manure
during the summer months to assist perfecting the crop. Where
fermenting leaves to the thickness of about 2 feet can be put on the
border when the house is closed for forcing without being considered
objectionable, the gentle heat thereby imparted to the top-dressing will
attract the roots to and keep them in the compost prepared for their
special requirements and advantage. This is a simple and sure means of
attaining an important end. — H. W. Ward, Longford Castle, Salisbur7j,

With the Editor’s permission I should like to give my opinion on
Mr. Richardson’s experiments with shanking Grapes. The method he
has found beneficial is quite the reverse of mine. Muscats I fancy would
be better left unthinned under Mr. Richardson’s treatment. I do not
believe in cow manure in a raw state for Vines, the liquid no doubt
will suit them to a certain extent. Has Mr. Richardson examined the
drainage ? That would be my first step. Lifting the roots near the
surface by degrees has been successful with me. Take note of the soil,
and water carefully, not twice a week, but once every two weeks would
be quite enough in most cases. In an early vinery I have two Muscat
Vines which my employer previous to my coming here a year ago
was advised to chop down owing to shanking. I have given them part
of the above treatment, and the result is a crop of excellent Grapes. I
am in hopes of having better next year, after lifting the roots up to the
front lights, as I only half lifted them last year, owing to it being late
in the season when I took charge.

Did ilr. Richardson fin'd any long tap roots when lifting? If not, I
sb: nil advise him to look again, as I fancy there must be some straying
into the clay under the lawn. Long thick fibreless roots straying

into a cold soil is, in my opinion, the principal cause of shanking.
Get the roots near the surface, and top-dress with good turf, bones,
charcoal, and lime rubble, then I think the Vines will require no cow
manure, the liquid from it being quite sufficient. — Wm. Roberts,
The Gardens, Peniarth, Merioneth,

With the Editor, I agree that Mr. Richardson is on the way to have
Grapes free from shanking on thinned bunches in the not far distant
future. I do not believe that non-thinning of the berries will have much
effect in preventing shanking, rather the reverse. It is obvious that the
heavy feeding has exercised a most marked improvement on the Vines
and their fruit, and if Mr. Richardson continues to feed with judgment
I feel sure that no shanking will be the rule among his Grapes. At the
same time I may perhaps advise caution in the use of cow manure
applied several times in the season, in addition to undiluted drainings
from the cowsheds every Tue.sday and Friday. It may answer very well
for a year or two, and then I think there is a danger of the Vine border
becoming sour. To prevent sourness a soaking of lime water several
times in the season would be advisable, and also prove beneficial to the
Vines. Some of the various salts are also excellent if used with dis¬
cretion, but soils vary so much in their constituents that only a practical
knowledge of the elements therein can enable anyone to state what
should and what should not be supplied. The question of manures and
their action is somewhat perplexing, but I think a keen observer like
Mr. Richardson will soon overcome all difficulties that may arise. —
S. T. Wright.

VEGETABLE CULTCJRE IN ADVERSE SEASONS.

(^Continued from page 241.')

Cauliflowers.

The chief point to aim at in growing Cauliflowers for exhibition or
home use is quick growih from beginning to end. If allowed to remain
too long in the seed bed, or to be dry at the roots for a long period,
clubbing will often follow, and this is vexatious. Very early heads may
be obtained by sowing during August and wintering the plants in cold
frames, or by sowing in heat in spring and transp'anting to boxes or
frames when in rough leaf, and when planted out put into shallow drills
and protected by inverted flower pots or Fir branches. I prefer the last
method of raising a stock for early use. There is not so much labour,
anxiety, and risk of loss as in the case of autumn-raised plants.

Sow the early varieties in January or first week in February, and
transplant the young seedlings in well prepared beds previously to
putting them in their permanent quarters. Allow a good distance from
plant to plant, according to the variety, and on the first appearance of
clubbing earth up the stems, first treading the soil firmly round each
plant. If the weather be dry and hot copious waterings will be neces¬
sary, and a good mulch should be applied. Sometimes in hot weather
the fly is troublesome. The best remedy which I have found is anthra¬
cite coal ash dusted over the plants while they are damp with dew. Cut
the heads when at their best. If allowed to remain long in very hot
weather they soon become loose and discoloured and their chief attrac¬
tion and quality lost. The varieties Early London, Walcheren, Magnum
Bonum, and Eclipse, with Veitch’s Autumn Giant for late use, I find
sufficient for a large garden.

Carrots.

Clean, even, and richly coloured Carrots are not to be obtained out
of poor, stiff, and lumpy soil, especially if shallow. Deep cultivation
should be the rule without exception for all root crops, and labour spent
in this work will not be lost. Soil of a free and rather light nature is
best suited for the production of clean, even Carrots. 'Where it is not
so deal with it in early autumn ; if wireworm be found apply a light
sprinkling of soot and gas lime, and well incorporate with the soil as
digging goes on. The ground ought to be broken up two spits deep, and
if stable manure is used let it be decayed, without straw or litter of any
kind, but not dried. Well break up the bottom spit of soil and leave it
in position, turn over the top spit and leave the surface rough, then a
good seed bed will be easily made in the spring. A rough surface admits
air to the soil below, sweetening it. Some persons have great faith in
chemical manures. Most of these, if good and properly used, are no
doubt beneficial. They may be sprinkled on the surface of the bed
early in the spring while the soil is dry and incorporated in it with a fork,
at the same time breaking up all lumps of earth. After a time, when
it is desirable to sow, make the remaining ground smooth, and draw drills
a foot to 15 inches apart. Sow the seed thinly, scattering a little burnt
earth and wood ashes in the drills before closing them with the rake.
The preparation of the ground for Carrots will answer well for Parsnips
and Beetroot.

Thinning is the next important operation, and should be done at
an early stage of the plant’s growth. It may seem a trifling affair, but
it requires to be carefully carried out, and 4 to G inches or more should
be allowed for the plants to develop properly. Draw the weakest first,
then in a few days complete the thinning, always observing that the
plants left be isolated, so that in taking away those not wanted its roots
are but little disturbed. If it is one of a bunch the chances are that
deformity in the root will result, though at the time of thinning it
would not be observable.

The bulk of these remarks apply with equal force to the cultivation
of the Turnip and the Onion, only these crops require firm ground.

264

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 21, 1893.

Rolling the ground does not compress it sufficiently, and I rather prefer
treading. It is a little more tedious perhaps, but results justify the
practiee. Rake over the bed after sowing, but do not tread or roll it,
as if that is done, and rain follows, the surface cracks in drying, and
the seedlings do not grow freely. In very hot weather spread a herring
net over the ground after sowing the Turnips, and leave it on till the
rough leaf appears. The fly rarely troubles while the net is on, however
hot the weather may be ; afterwards use the anthracite coal ashes to
prevent its ravages.

Mildew is very destructive among Onions. On its first appearance
rub flowers of sulphur on the affected parts. It generally attacks the
Onions during the month of August, and will work much damage
among them if not quickly checked. At first it is not observable,
ordinarily, but upon close inspection small patches of grey dust-like
powder will be found on the stalks, and these if left untouched will
soon cause the stem to turn yellow and decay. This premature loss of
foliage is detrimental to the sound keeping of the bulbs during winter.
If extra large Onions are desired the plants should be raised in January,
and grown thinly in boxes before being finally planted out in April,
and the ci op treated generously throughout.

Good varieties of Carrots are Early Gem for early use, and New Red
Intermediate for the main crop. Beetroot, Pragnell’s Exhibition, Blood
Red, and Carter’s Perfection. Parsnips, Student and Hollow Crown.
Turnips, Jersey Lily, Snowball, and Golden Rose. Onions, for autumn
sowing. White Leviathan ; for spring sowing, Rousham Park Hero,
Improved Reading, James’ Keeping, and Ailsa Craig. — G. Gaener.

(To be continued.)

NOTES BY THE WAY.

An oblique line to the left of the main road from East Grinstead,
near which are Oakleigh, Brockhurst, and Brambletye, leads in the
direction of Hammer wood, the residence of Oswald Smith, Esq. The
exact direction of the line is more than I was able to grasp, for an
obliging guide led me by winding footpaths and zigzag approaches,
beguiling the long and weary way by frequent references to a mysterious
“ short cut ” which was to be found sooner or later. Hearing about
short routes when it is only too evident that you are taking a long one is
about as consoling as a landlady’s assurance to a hungry traveller that
she would have had a splendid dinner ready for him if disappointments
with tradesmen had not left her with nothing but bread and cheese.
Not being found on the outward journey, the guide decided that we
must return by it. He had forgotten Mrs. Glasse’s preliminary point in
the recipe for jugged hare, which was to catch it first. The only “ short
cut ” discovered was one which led through a farmyard, wherein a large,
gaunt, and hungry looking dog was dragging round several feet of broken
chain, and the settled conviction that we were at last on the straight
road which had taken possession of the guide’s mind deserted him with
startling suddenness. But we found Hammerwood and got back from
it, so I take it that a veil may be drawn over the doubts and difficulties
engendered by seeking for a path that either does not exist or is too well
guarded for use.

Mr. Oswald Smith is, I believe, either a brother or near relative of
Mr. Martin Smith, but certainly he does not seem to share the fraternal
enthusiasm for Carnations. I do not know that there is anything very
striking in this fact, for as yet no gardening Ibsen has arisen to show us
that heredity has its say in floral tastes, and we can do very well without
him. But Mr. Martin Smith is such an enthusiast, and so convincing in
his championship of the great summer flower, that there is room for a
mild species of wonder that Hammerwood has not its quota of white
grounds, yellow grounds, seifs, and the rest of the Carnation string.

“ A person of the name of ’Arris,” as Mrs. Gamp would have said,
has charge of the gardens at Hammerwood. He is a broad, deep chested,
hale and hearty looking gardener, and has earned quite a reputation in
the locality as a vegetaWe grower. Perhaps the fact of his pleasant
house opening direct on to the kitchen garden may have something to do
with this, although it is not easy to trace any distinct connection between
the two facts. It may be that as the vegetable quarters are also the
, pleasure grounds, so far as his residence is concerned, he takes a special
pride in having them well filled, and this view I should be the last to
traverse, apart altogether from fear of a cudgelling from our critical
friend “A. D.” to whom, as we all know, no Rose or Carnation has the
beautiful points of an Onion or a Potato. Be the reason what it may,
it is the exception to meet with a kitchen garden so well stocked and so
admirably kept as that at Hammerwood. It is full of good produce,
clean and orderly. Without being hypercritical, it may be advanced
that many kitchen gardens would be improved if the “ place-for-every-
thing-and-evsrything-in-its-place ” rule were observed in them as care¬
fully as it is in this well-managed Sussex garden.

Hammerwood may be said to be the centre of a little kingdom of
which Mr. Smith is the reigning monarch. It is far away from a town
or even village, being snugged away amongst the fields and woods. But
the beneficent potentate has built a number of excellent dwellings for his
workpeople, a fine school and a handsome church. The little hamlet and
the neighbouring mansion which fosters it lie calm, peaceful, and
secluded, typical of many a pastoral picture in Merrie England. The
hum of busy life, the ceaseless tramp of the “ madding crowd,” do not
penetrate there. There is a restfuluess and repose about the place which

are full of charm. The residence is embowered in lofty trees and huge
masses of Rhododendrons. There are some immense banks of the old
caucasicum quite close to the flower garden adjoining the house which
must present noble effects when in full bloom, despite the modest beauty
of the variety as compared with some of the gorgeous hybrids. I could
not help thinking, indeed, that the semi-wild and natural aspect of the
grounds was much in keeping with the surroundings, and perhaps
felt inclined to accuse Mr. Harris of a leaning to vandalism when he
talked about clearing some of them away ; but superior varieties are, I
understand, to take their place.

The sight of these wonderful bushes suggested the reflection that
Sussex must possess a record hard to beat in her examples of this fine
old Rhododendron. I remember dropping unexpectedly upon a huge
tree — for it was nothing less — in a garden at Groombridge a few years
ago, not very far from the foot of the famous hill. It was on a sunny after¬
noon late in spring, and the gigantic bush was laden with blossom. I
am unable to recall my estimate of its size, but it v/as larger than many
a cottage. Beyond Crawley, too, far past Cheal’s, through the old town,
up the hill and so on along the Brighton road, attention is attracted by
some very fine bushes on the left, which when carrying their spring
burden of flowers are a sight to linger in the recollection even when the
manifold attractions of ancient Brighthelmstone are exercising their
influences. This, however, is a digression.

A charitable and considerate pen must be wielded in touching on
flower gardens this year. Gardeners waited anxiously for the fulfilment
of Falb’s weather predictions, and the filling up of their beds consequent
on the rains which he generously provided, but alas 1 the professorial
vaticinations proved to be a delusion and a snare. It is not the fault of
Mr. Harris and his suffering brethren in other parts if the beds were
only half furnished when they ought to have been amply filled. The
designs were right enough, and so was the material to begin with, but
the plants would not grow as they should have done, all their time being
taken up in keeping alive under the fierce and protracted heat. Not
that the bedding was bad, quite the reverse. There were some attractive
arrangements, and quite a brave glow of colour in some cases, but there
as elsewhere thin beds were the rule.

It will not be in the least surprising if there should be a check in the
triumphant march of Tuberous Begonias, as a result of this season’s
experiences. Their most partial admirer must admit that the season has
been somewhat too much for them in a great many places. They have
not shone radiant as of yore, luxuriant in leafage and brilliant with
flowers, but have been pinched, starved, and melancholy. It is easy to
tell when plants are unhappy, and dejection has been written large on
most of the bedding Begonias which I have seen in this season of sultry
memory. But in venturing (spite of the colossal failure of the luckless
professor) on this little prophecy it is not my wish to suggest that the
Begonias merit the rebuff which fate perhaps has in store for them. That
would be unjust. All I wish to do is to point out the probable result of
their failure this year. It must be remembered that thousands of people
act mainly on impulses, and the first thing that they will do in observing
the poor condition of the plants will be to decide on doing without
them another year, forgetful that we have had a season in a hundred,
and that the Begonias have not had a ghost of a chance of doing them¬
selves justice. ’Twas ever thus. Praise and admiration in the hour of
success, disparagement and distaste in the moment of failure. But the
flowers will win after all. _

Speaking of Begonias reminds me that I ought to say how exceed¬
ingly well Mr. Harris grows them in pots, for he has a very fine
display. Another useful decorative plant that he grows extremely well
is the Cockscomb. He had a very fine specimen of Veitch’s Dwarf,
which, as grown at Hammerwood, is distinctly superior to the Glasgow
Prize of my novitiate days, for, although very dwarf, the combs are even
and finely developed. Orchids are well grown at Hammerwood, and so
are many other plants under glass, such as Clerodendrons, Bougain¬
villeas, Bouvardias, Acalyphas, and others, but I have not space to
enumerate them all. _

Fruit comes in the same stream of praise, especially Peaches and
Nectarines. The early house is a very wide and roomy structure, and
contains some very large trees of Dr. Hogg, Princess of Wales, and
Stanwick Elruge. Trees of the latter which were bought a few inches
high in small pots of Mr. Rivers twelve years ago now have a spread of
20 feet and bear enormous crops. I was about to omit mention of Mr.
Harris’s Melon. What would he think of me if I did 1 I did not leave
Hammerwood without tasting it, and I must not quit it now without
saying a word about the fruit. Please do not understand me to suggest
that there is anything astonishing in a gardener having a Melon of his
own raising. Almost every gardener has one. It is a peculiarity of the
craft to get a hybrid which puts every other Melon into the shade, and
which is so precious that a slice has to be cut for you with great care
lest you should carry away a seed in your mouth, sow it, and basely sell
the stock thus procured for a fabulous sum. The Grinstead gardeners
have this amiable little weakness strongly developed. Each runs a
Melon of his own. The neighbourhood is positively overflowing with
wonderful varieties. Each, of course, is a great deal better than the
other ; and the other, equally as a matter of course, is better than each.
This may seem peculiar, but, as a proof of its accuracy, I may mention

September 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

265

that I had the information from the raiser in every case. Mr. Harris’s
is really a very good Melon, being an even, well-netted, handsome,
orange fleshed fruit of very excellent flavour. I have not tasted a better
one this year, and very few anything like so good. He calls it No. 1.
In a season of poorly flavoured Melons it is a pleasure to come across a
variety that possesses really high quality. — W. P. W.

Events of the Week. — As notified in another paragraph, the
■Committees of the Royal Horticultural Society will meet at the Drill
Hall, Westminster, on Tuesday, September 26th. On Wednesday, the
2.7th inst., a Show of hardy fruit will be opened at the Gardening and
Forestry Exhibition, Earl’s Court, and will continue the two following
days. The County of Gloucester Show will also take place on the
27th and 28th.

- The Weather in London.— During the past week fine

weather has for the most part prevailed in the metropolis, although
several local showers have occurred. Sunday opened fine, but gusty,
and Monday proved cloudy with appearance of rain. On Tuesday last
a few showers fell, and Wednesday morning was dull. At the time of
going to press, however, it is fine, and rain is much wanted.

- United Horticultural Benefit and Provident Society.

— The seventh annual dinner of this Society will take place on Tuesday,
October 10th, at 6 p.m., at the Cannon Street Hotel, E.C., on which
occasion P. C. M. Veitch, Esq., of Exeter, has kindly consented to
preside. Tickets, 5s. each, can be obtained from Mr. W. Collins, Secre¬
tary, 9, Martindale Road, Balham, S.W.

- Royal Horticultural Society. — The next meeting of the

Royal Horticultural Society will take place at the Drill Hall, James
Street, Victoria Street, Westminster, on Tuesday, September 26th, when
prizes are offered for Gladioli. At three o’clock Mr. W. Iggulden of
Marston Gardens, Frome, will deliver a lecture on the “ Causes of
Failure in Eucharis Culture.”

- Death of Mr. Hugh Low. — With great regret we record

the death of Mr. Hugh Low, of the well known firm of nurserymen at
Clapton, which took place suddenly on Sunday, September 17th, at his
residence at Upper Clapton. The deceased gentleman was thirty-two
years of age, and his untimely death will be regretted by a wide circle
of friends ; he leaves a widow and two little girls. For some time past
Mr. Low had been in indifferent health and returned from a visit to
Cromer last week, but was not taken seriously ill until Saturday, after
which pneumonia developed rapidly with unfortunate fatal results.
Mr. Low was in partnership under the style of Messrs. Hugh Low and
Co., with his two younger brothers, by whom, we understand, the
business will be carried on. He was a member of the Committee of the
Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund, and a most estimable man. The funeral
took place at 12.30 P.M. yesterday (Wednesday) at Abney Park Ceme¬
tery, Stoke Newington, and the ceremony was attended by many sympa¬
thising friends.

- Destroying Weeds. — On seeing a paragraph on this subject

in the last number (page 245) from Meehan’s Monthly,” I was
reminded of a conversation I recently had with a gardener on the
eradication of the small Bindweed, whose roots go down, as is well
known, to an incredible depth. The pest appeared to have quite
vanished from a formerly infested patch, and I asked how he managed
it. “ Oh 1 an old gardener told me the secret. He said you must hoe
them every Wednesday. I did, and they are quite done for.” It was
good ; and I should like to have known that old gardener, who evidently
knew as much of human as of weed nature. It is pretty clear that if
he had said “every week” they would have been hoed, once on a
Monday perhaps, and then on the Saturday week, and so on, and the
whole thing would have fallen through sooner or later ; but by naming
his day he gave a useful little touch of a superstitious charm for an
ignorant man, and also made sure that it would be done every week.
Let those of my friends who are troubled with Bindweed, Coltsfoot^
and Dandelions, try the “ every Wednesday ” plan for them, and report
if it does not answer. — W. R. Raillem.

- There are in the United States thirty-two botanical stations.

Systematic botany and the physiology of plants are studied more or less
at all these stations, and at every one of them particular attention is
given to the maladies of plants and the disease causing fungi.

- Lilium japonicum VAR. ALEXANDRiE. — We observe in the

catalogue of Messrs. Wallace & Co., Colchester, that our illustration of
this new Lilium on page 57, July 20th, has been copied without per¬
mission and published without acknowledgement. This is not in accord¬
ance with the canons of literary propriety. Moreover, the flower that
our artist sketched, and which is accurately represented in the Colchester
catalogue, was not grown by Messrs. Wallace k, Co., but by Messrs.
Veitch & Sons, Chelsea.

- Grapes for Wine. — In some parts of Medoc the vintage began

as soon as the 20th of last month. Such an early date has not been known
for generations, the usual period being the first half of September, some¬
times even the last days of the month. The Girondins all agree in
saying that the crop this year will be a splendid one in spite of drought.
It is necessary to say “ will be,” for most of the growers have had to
suspend the gathering of the Grapes for want of casks, which are so
scarce that they fetch unusually high prices.

- Suburban Sparrows. — I should like to confirm all “ Davies

Duffryn ” (page 214) alleges against these mischievous depredators,
although he omits from his indictment one of their worst vices — viz.,
pecking, and thereby destroying all ripe or unripe fruit. But the
difficulty is how to get rid of the pests. Cats seem quite useless, and
hawks cannot be sufficiently tamed, I fear. Shooting is out of the
question in a garden ; consequently any inventor who devises a simple
and inexpensive sparrow trap would very quickly make his fortune. —
Country Amateur.

- Perennials in Town Gardens. — A very good word for

perennials as becoming and profitable inhabitants of town gardens was
spoken by Mr. Walter Child, F.R.H.S., in a paper delivered before the
Birmingham Amateur Gardeners’ Association the other day. Mr. Child
is a very successful exhibitor of these plants, and has contributed sub¬
stantially to rescue many worthy perennials by a sedulous selection of
the best varieties, and by the most suitable cultivation. For a long
period many of these old-fashioned garden flowers have enjoyed the
loyal regard of those to whom gardening is a pleasure.

- Gardening Appointments. — Mr. William Carr has resigned

the post of head gardener to Viscount Hill, Hawkstone, near Shrewsbury,
in order to fill a similar position at Yeatoa-Pevevey, the seat of Sir Offley
Wakeman, Bart., Shrewsbury. Mr. Carr was foreman at Hawkstone
under the late Mr. William Pratt, whose successor he became in the
management of the gardens there when that good all-round horticul¬
turist left ten and a half years ago to become head gardener to the
Marquis of Bath, at Longleat. Mr. James Fawkes, for the past two and
a half years gardener to the Hon. Mrs. Douglas Pennant, Lillingsfcone
House, Buckingham, and previously foreman with Mr. Hope, Middleton
Park Gardens, Bicester, has been appointed gardener to the Earl of
Jersey, Osterley Park, Isleworth, Middlesex.

- The New Zealand Karmahi Tree. — A correspondent

writes : — “ So great has been the demand tor Wattle bark that this
valuable Australian tree is become scarce. But there is a native tree
which I think might be found no mean rival of the Australian Wattle.
I refer to the Karmahi, or Kamai, as it is generally called. This tree is
known to botanists as Wienmannia, and is often called by bushmen
“ Bastard Birch.” There are two varieties of the tree. One found in
the North Island and northern portion of South Island, and the other
peculiar to southern forests. In the great Tautuku Forest, extending
from the Clutha to the Mataura, the Kamai is one of the most
abundant trees. It grows to a height of 30 feet to 40 feet, and often
attains a diameter of 20 inches to 30 inches. It is covered with a
tolerably thick bark, which contains a considerable amount of tannic
acid and dye material. The Maoris use the bark to dye flax, and
produce a fast black or dark brown colour. They bruise the bark and
boil it along with the flax to be dyed, which is afterwards steeped in
swamp mud, where the iron held in solution comes in contact with the
tanning of the bark, and so fixes a black dye. Experiment is all that is
wanted, I feel sure, to bring the Kamai bark into general use, both at
the tannery and at the dyeworks. From a series of chemical experi¬
ments made myself a few years ago on the barks of our forest trees, I
proved the Kamai to be one of the richest in tanning material.”

266

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 21, 1893,

- Mr. George Gallaher, late gardener at Kilkewan House

Ayrshire, informs us that he is about to commence business as florist and
fruit grower at Burnhead, Liberton, Edinburgh.

- Destroying Wasps’ Nests.— It is reported that Mr. Whit¬
bread, M.P., has caused the destruction of no less than 800 wasps’ nests
in his park at Southill. A few weeks ago Mr, Whitbread offered 6d.
for each wasp’s nest destroyed in his park, with the result that he has
just paid on this account over £20.

- A Potato Problem. — On raising Potatoes in several gardens

near Tenhury many of the tubers are found to be quite flabby, as if
scalded or frosted, though some of them are only affected at one end.
Have other readers of the Journal of Horticulture experienced any¬
thing of the kind ? I shall be glad if the cause can be explained, and if
the tubers will be good for seed. They go black on being cooked.
— Middledale.

- A White Flowered Cobcea scandens. — When potting

some seedling Coboea scandens in the spring I noticed one much lighter
than the others in the foliage and stems. It was marked and turns out
to be a white flowered variety. Can you tell me if this is unusual, as I
have never seen a white one before? — H. R. Richards. [Light coloured
forms are not uncommon, but so far as we know a pure white one has
not been exhibited. Have you any flowers to send for examination ?]

- Queen Wasps. — No delay should take place in destroying

every nest known to exist, as the queens for another season’s plague
are very numerous in the nests now. I pointed out last autumn how
necessary it was to hunt up all the nests, as they were producing an
unusual number of young queens, and the season from the first has
been highly favourable for their development. Some seasons I have
had difficulty in finding a queen being developed for another year, which
is to me unaccountable, and a few years ago this occurred to such an
extent that to see a wasp the following summer was a rarity. —
J. Hi AM.

- California Midwinter International Exposition. —

The Agricultural and Horticultural Hall of the Exhibition to be held in
San Francisco during the winter of 1893-94 has an area of 300 by
125 feet. Agricultural products, horticultural products, floricultural
products, forest products, specimens, botanical, fossil and mineral,
samples of cereals and grasses, when not intended to be returned, may
be carried from Chicago and Common Points west thereof to San
Francisco at one-half the regular tariff rate for same. The general
rules and regulations and information for intending exhibitors are now
ready, and may be obtained by applying to the Department of Publicity
and Promotion, California Midwinter International Exposition, Mills
Building, San Francisco, Cal., U.S.A.

- A Melon Novelty. — The remarks of a correspondent on

page 218 of the Journal induce me to relate a similar experience
with Sutton’s Triumph Melon, a variety with a thin skin and deep
scarlet flesh. When the fruit was cut it was found that fully half the
seeds had germinated, many of the plants having roots 2 inches long,
and what surprised us still more the seed leaves were quite green.
Acting upon instructions I placed a few of the seedlings in small pots on
July 24th, and a fortnight later transferred them to 6-inch pots. From
the first they made healthy growth, in fact there is no difference
between them and others raised in the usual way. We planted four
plants in the Cucumber house on the 21st of August ; these are now
flowering, but 1 fear the season is too far advanced for us to be able
to ripen a crop of fruit upon them.— P. Tarry, The Gardens, Holly
Hill, Hartfield.

- Birds and the Drought. — Mr. T. Fox Simpson writes from

Tunbridge Wells:— “As an illustration of the shifts to which birds
have been driven for food by ‘the unexampled drought,’ I may mention
that within the last ten days the blackbirds have attacked and devoured
dozens of some fine Blaek Hamburgh Grapes growing in my ‘ curate’s
vinery.’ Have any of your numerous readers suffered in the same
way ? All the scarlet heps on the Cockspur Thorns were cleared off
last month, and this morning (Sept. 16th) I saw five of my sable friends
making a square meal off the heps on a White Thorn, intending, no
doubt, to lay my Grapes under contribution for dessert. What these
beautiful birds are to do for food in the coming winter, if it be a hard
one, is not e.aay to say. Those who enjoy their presence and song in
spring and summer must be careful to feed them well through the
winter. Minced uncooked beef will be better for them than° Black
Hamburgh Grapes.’’

- WiDCOMBE Horticultural Club. — There was a large

attendance at the meeting of the Widcombe Horticultural Club held on
September 12th, when the Rev. E. Lascelles, Rector of Newton St. Loe,
read a paper on “ Begonias,” flowers he has cultivated with so much
success for several years. Mr. W. Pumphrey, the President, occupied
the chair. Mr. Lascelles dealt with his subject in an interesting and
able manner.

- The Sunflower. — Among neglected crops the Sunflower is

one of the most interesting. Few neople who grow it for ornament have
any idea of its usefulness. A daily contemporary asserts that birds of
nearly all kinds thrive on the seeds, and there is no more fattening food
for poultry. Cattle like them, too, either in their natural state or
crushed and made into cake ; while the very stalks may be ground up
and mixed advantageously with other fodder. In one or two places in
Scotland a few acres have been devoted to Sunflower cultivation for the
past few years with very satisfactory results.

- CovENT Garden Fruit. — With a view to putting beyond

doubt the little likelihood of spreading cholera through the medium of
Covent Garden, as some questions in the House of Commons might lead
the public to believe, a reporter pursued inquiries on the subject. The
Market Inspector told him : — “ There has been no dangerous fruit or
anything approaching to it within the market area. It does not pay to
send consignments of bad fruit. If it were otherwise buying would
stop, and the wide reputation of the market would be ruined. We have
the best name in the world for sound fruit and vegetables, and it is
a poor market indeed for bad stuff.”

- Variegated Aloes. — It not infrequently happens that

visiting some comparatively remote and almost unknown garden one
meets with something of more than usual interest, and I found that to
be so recently in Somersetshire, for when at Inwood House, Mr. Wilkins
kindly drove me over to Milborne Port to see Mr. Bowers and the
quaint old gardens attached to Venn Hall, the residence of Sir A.
Medlycott, and there I found, standing on a terrace, a number of
huge variegated Agaves, some of the finest and cleanest I have ever seen.
They seemed specially to be fitting in this fine old garden. In one of
the houses there is a gigantic Adiantum farleyense some 7 feet through.
It is in a large pot, and growing in a shaded position. Many other
good plants show that the cultivation in the highest perfection of this
grand Fern is well understood here. — A. D.

- Fern Houses and Ferneries. — A block of formal houses,

close to the mansion at Inwood, is now full of Ferns, in pots and
standing on shelves and stages. Of course the result is, as is invari¬
ably the case in similar Fern houses, much uninteresting flatness and
formality. Lady Theodora Guest, the munificent owner of this fine
property, has resolved to convert these formal houses into one artistic
fernery, and to that end the entire contents will be removed, the stages
and shelves cleared away, the floors covered with substantial rockwork
(which Mr. Wilkins will construct), good roomy alleys provided, and
then the whole [planted artistically, so as to produce a very delightful
effect, that can be at all seasons enjoyed. Then a Fern house becomes a
real fernery. At present the houses are most unattractive to ladies ;
then they will be a favourite place of resort. — A. D.

- A General Horticultural Society.— We learn from the

“ Garden and Forest ” that the birth of a General Horticultural Society
took place on August 25th, immediately after the Horticultural Congress
at Chicago, in Mr. Samuel’s office. The scheme provides for three oflScers
at large, a president, viee-president, and secretary-treasurer. Each
country is entitled to a vice-president and secretary-treasurer. The
three general officers, together with the secretary-treasurer of the
country in which the president resides, constitute a committee on bye¬
laws and on finance, while all the officers constitute an executive com¬
mittee. The object of a general Horticultural Society is the promotion
of correspondence, the exchange of plants, seeds, books, and other
articles, and the general extension of fellowship among the horticultu¬
rists of the world. The membership of the society consists of horti¬
cultural societies and of individuals, who pay an initial fee of two
dollars and a subsequent annual fee of one dollar. Only three general
officers are yet determined. These are — T. J. Berckmans, Georgia,
president ; Henri L. de Vilmorin, Paris, first vice-president ; and George
Nicholson, curator of the Royal Gardens, Kew, England, secretary-
treasurer. It is expected that one-third of all the money collected in
each country is to be retained in that country for the expenses of its
own branch of the work, the remainder going into the hands of the
secretary-treasurer.

September 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

267

- Ramsg-ATE Public Park. — In the most beautiful weather a

•ceremony in connection with the Ramsgate Public Park took place
recently. As far back as September 29[h of last year a somewhat
similar ceremony occurred, marking the transfer of the property from
the trustees of the former owner to the representatives of the ratepayers.
The present occasion, however, simply marked the close of the operations
of beautifying and laying out the grounds, operations carried out most
eflSciently by Messrs. Cheal & Sons of Crawley, Sussex, Among the
main features of the Park the finest piece of constructive work is the
handsomely designed Doulton-ware terrace, 246 feet in length, 25 feet
wide at the narrowest, and 75 feet at the widest part.

- The Botany op Tibet. — A recent issue of the “ Chemist and

Druggist ” remarked that Dr. Thorold, who, in 1890-91 accompanied
Captain Bower’s expedition through Tibet as a scientist, collected
specimens of all the plants he saw during his journey across the
country from west to east. The collection contains only 115 species,
all told, showing the poverty of the Tibetan flora in the district
traversed ; a poverty which, however, is not astonishing considering that
the greater part of the route lay over a country as high above sea-level
as is the top of Mont Blanc. The 115 species belonged to no fewer than
twenty-eight natural orders, and only about half a dozen species were
quite unknown at Kew. One flowering plant was collected at an altitude
of 19,000 feet — probably the highest point on record in the history of
botany.

- Liquorice. — The inhabitants of Elizabethpol and Baku in the

Caucasus derive considerable benefit from Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza
glabra), which grows wild, needs no cultivation, and multiplies spon¬
taneously. In 1878 two Greeks turned their attention to the large
quantities of Liquorice in Caucasia ; in 1886 they erected a large factory
for drying and pressing the Liquorice, which they annually exported to
America. The remunerative trade soon attracted others, and to-day
there exist four prominent commercial houses which carry on a wholesale
trade in Liquorice, and two of which have erected extract factories in
this country. Annually there are produced about 108,339,000 pounds of
raw Liquorice, which, after drying, yields 36,113,000 pounds of market¬
able merchandise. For raw Liquorice the factories pay on the average
fivepence halfpenny per 100 pounds.

- Reclaimed Land in Holland. — In the year 1886 a society

was organised in Holland to make plans for the draining of the Zuyder
Zee. It now officially reports that three-fourths of the soil covered by
these 900,000 acres of water is as fertile as surrounding districts, and
proposes a scheme of drainage which will leave 300,000 acres in the
centre as a lake, while the rest will be redeemed at a rate that will
annually render from 12,000 to 15,000 acres habitable. According to
the “ Garden and Forest ” the cost of the entire work is estimated at
£15,250,000. The largest enterprise of the same sort hitherto carried
out has been the draining of the Haarlem Lake, which, after thirty-nine
months of labour, added 46,000 acres to the solid soil of Holland. When
the Zuyder Zee was formed by an inundation, in the thirteenth century,
some 80,000 lives are believed to have been lost.

- The Wasp Plague. — Mr. J. Lloyd Bozward, Worcester,

writes to the last issue of “ Nature ” as follows : — “ Of late much has
been written about the seasonal prevalence of wasps, and the mischief,
in several places, wrought by them. May not, however, their use in
keeping down many forms of insect pests be set off as some sort of
palliative? Wasps are exterminators of aphides, and although the
season has been favourable to insect life, next to no damage has been
done to the Hop bines or the corn or pulse crops of Worcestershire or
Herefordshire by these latter pests — frequent destroyers of crops. Is it
suggestible that the excessive wasp prevalence is attributable in some
measure to the abundance of their insect prey, just as has recently
happened in Scotland, in the instance of the multiplication of the
short-eared or ‘ woodcock ’ owl, owing to the plague of field voles ?
The owl is a winter immigrant, usually leaving in spring. ‘ Nests in
ordinary seasons are of rare occurrence in Great Britain, but owing to
the vast increase of their favourite food — the field vole — these owls
have not only arrived in increased numbers, but have remained and
bred in Scotland all over the affected districts, laying from eight to
thirteen eggs, and rearing large broods,’ instead of the few eggs these
owls have hitherto been accredited with laying. I am a fruit grower.
Much damage has this year been done to the fruit ; not, however, by
the wasp tribe, but by hungry birds, the fruit having even been attacked
in an unripe state. According to my experience wasps do not become
household pests till the falling off of insect prey towards autumn.”

- Spirits from Mulberries. — The production of spirits from

Mulberries, Pears, Cherries, and other fruits depends upon the yearly
result of the vintage, as the producers seek to repair the eventual loss
in wine and wine-spirits by substituting the above-named fruits. The
production from fruits grown in the Caucasus during the last five years
averaged about 65,000 vedros (211,185,000 gallons) of Mulberry spirits
free from water. The other fruits are used for this purpose only in
inconsiderable quantities.

- Fruit Culture in New Zealand. — The latest papers from

Auckland, New Zealand, describe the cultivation of the Orange on the
peninsula to the north of that town as taking a marked development,
and superseding the cultivation of the Apple and stone fruits. It
is not generally known in England that this northern portion of New
Zealand, whilst being asi green and well watered as Devonshire, can
grow all the fruits of Sicily and Devonshire combined. The Lemon,
the Seville Orange, the Loquat, together with Peaches, Nectarines,
Apricots, and Apples, flourish exceedingly in every garden about
Auckland ; but the Sweet Orange requires the rather higher tempera¬
ture some seventy miles to the north to bring it to perfection. Slowly
the people are becoming aware of the unbounded possibilities of fruit
growing awaiting them in the future, and it merely requires accessi¬
bility to a large market to convert this part of New Zealand into a
paradise for small fruit farmers.

- Begonias at Henbury Hill.— Mr. W. Strugnell writes : —

For some years past the gardens at Henbury Hill have acquired a local
fame in respect to Tuberous Begonias, which are well and extensively
grown both indoors and in the open air. I made a call recently, and I
was agreeably surprised to find such a wealth of bloom and variety after
such a prolonged period of drought. Two large semi-circular beds are
filled with Begonias and subtropical plants, having a background of tall
evergreen shrubs. This shows up the Begonias in splendid contrast to
the sombre tints of the evergreens, and being in direct view of the house
must give an immense amount of satisfaction to their owner, A. E.
George, Esq., during the summer. The site now occupied with the
Begonias was once a portion of the line of shrubs extended forward by
Mr. Smith to suit the object under notice, and being well trenched and
manured each year, the plants grow with unusual vigour. The green¬
house and subtropical plants used include Ricinus Gibsoni, R. communis,
Grevillea robusta, tall Acacias, Wigandias, Fuchsias, Brugmansias, and
Gannas in variety. These grow well, and are interesting almost to the
same extent as the Begonias. Mr. Smith devises a fresh plan for each
year, but as this has been carried on several years the difficulty now is
to find something original. Begonias embrace many colours and inter¬
mediary shades, and a course of crossing and intercrossing produces a
strain of marked excellence both in habit of plant, size, and shape of
blooms. Some of the flowers are massive and erect, others drooping and
of medium size, but all are good. None but singles are grown, double
flowers finding no favour at Henbury Hill. The plants are raised from
home-saved seeds each year.

- Sending Fruit to Covent Garden 180 Years Ago.—

A correspondent sends us the following extract from the “ Spectator ” of
1712. The writer appears to have been taking a holiday in August. He
gays : — “ I lay one night last week at Richmond, and being restless, not
out of dissatisfaction, but a certain busy inclination one sometimes has,
I rose at four in the morning, and took boat for London, with a
resolution to rove by boat and coach for the next four-and-twenty
hours. When we first put off from shore we soon fell in with a
fleet of gardeners bound for the several market ports of London ; and
it was the most pleasing scene imaginable to see the cheerfulness with
which those industrious people ply’d their way to a certain sale of
their goods. The banks on each side are as well peopled, and beauti¬
fied with as agreeable plantations as any spot on the earth ; but the
Thames itself, loaded with the product of each shore, added very much
to the landskip. It was very easy to observe by their sailing, and the
countenances of the ruddy virgins, who were supercargoes, the parts
of the town to which they were bound. There was an air in the
purveyors for Covent Garden, who frequently converse with morning
rakes, very unlike the seemly sobriety of those bound for Stocks’
market. Nothing remarkable happened in our voyage ; but I landed
with ten-sail of Apricoc boats at Strand Bridge, after having put in
at Nine Elms, and taken in Melons, consigned by Mr. Cuffe of that
place, to Sarah Sewell & Company, at their stall in Covent Garden.
We arrived at Strand Bridge at six of the clock, and were unloading
when the hackney coachmen of the foregoing night took their leave
of each other at the Dark House to go to bed before the day was too

268

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 21, 1893.

far spent. Chimney-sweepers passed by us as we made up to the
market, and some rallery happened between one of the fruit-wenches
and those black men about the devil and Eve, with allusion to their
several professions. I could not believe any place more entertaining
than Covent Garden, where I strolled from one fruit shop to another,
with crowds of agreeable young women around me, who were pur¬
chasing fruit for their respective families. It was almost eight of the
clock before I could leave that variety of objects.” [We think it would
be difficult to find Apricots grown on the banks of the Thames equal
to filling “ ten-sail of boats ” in these modern days.]

A VINE PROBLEM.

Having an interesting if not an important problem in reference to
variation in Grapes to solve, I should very much like to have the benefit
of the experience and observations of readers of the Journal of
Horticulture,

1, Is there such a thing as a Vine with foliage and wood that cannot
in any point or degree be considered to differ from some other Vine, but
that at the same time continues to bear Grapes that are quite distinct
from that other Vine?

2, Are any instances known where a seedling Vine, the produce of a
cross between two of the most distinct Vines, differs in no degree
whatever from one of its parents in either wood or foliage, but that
bears Grapes quite distinct from that borne by the parent with the
leaves and wood of which the seedling is identical, and that at the same
time has no likeness whatever either in colour or fiavour of fruit, or in
wood or foliage to the other parent, the parent being one of the most
striking and distinct Vines known ?

3, Do any readers know of any sport from a Vine that has borne
and continued to bear Grapes distinct from the original stock, and that
on being propagated in the usual way has perpetuated the distinction ?
— An Experimentalist.

[We shall be obliged by replies to the questions propounded by our
correspondent.]

NEWNHAM PADDOX.

Newnham Paddox, the seat of the Earl of Denbigh, is very
pleasantly situated on the south-eastern borders of Warwickshire, about
three miles distant from Brinklow Station on the L. and N.W. Eailway.
After leaving the station the road passes through the small village of
Stretton-under-Fosse, with its quaint-looking thatched cottages and
wayside gardens, where many old fashioned hardy herbaceous plants
may be seen growing luxuriantly, and evidently quite at home amid
their rustic surroundings. Continuing our journey we shortly reach the
small hamlet ot Street Ashton, from whence may be seen the picturesque
village of Monks Kirkby, with its grand old church tower looming up
far above the housetops, presenting an excellent picture for the artist’s
pencil or the photographer’s camera. At the extreme end of the village
we find the entrance gate to Newnham Paddox. The mansion, which is
approached by a carriage drive nearly a mile in length, winding through
a finely timbered park, a splendid avenue of English Elms, which have
withstood the storms and gales of time immemorial, being especially
noticeable. As we approach the mansion our attention is directed to
some massive wrought iron gates, separating the park from the pleasure
grounds. These gates, which were brought from his Lordship’s estate
in Shropshire, are beautifully designed, carrying numerous monograms
They are 24 yards in width, and from 15 to 20 feet in height. Inside
these gates is a short drive, about 100 yards in length, leading to the
front entrance door, upon each side of which, and planted sufficiently
far enough back to allow them to develop into full beauty, are some
splendid specimens of Araucaria imbricata, from 20 to 30 feet in height
and branched to their base. The gardens are situated about 200 or
300 yards from the mansion, and are admirably managed bv Mr
Harman, & u •

Commencing at the glass houses the first range entered consisted of
tnrGG iGar-to vineries, and a similar house in which fruit trees are erown
in pots. The whole of the Vines were planted by Mr. Harman about
five years ago, and the grand crop of fruit and strong healthy foliage
showed that he thoroughly understands his business. The Black
Hamburghs were carrying a magnificent crop of fruit. Each cane about
15 feet long bearing fifteen bunches, averaging 2^ to 3 lbs. each.
Several leaves which I measured were 15 inches across and 11 inch
round at the base of the leafstalk. A large Fig tree on the back wall
was ripening a capital second crop, the variety being Brown Turkey
The second house contains Black Hamburgh and Foster’s Seedling, the
crop being similar in appearance to that described. A large Vine of
Fosters Seedling, covering the whole of the back wall, was laden with
grand bunches, the berries being large, and well finished. The third
f of Muscat of Alexandria, and presents a sight not
easily to be forgotten. Several of the bunches are 20 inches in length,
and exceedingly well shouldered, many of them would, I venturf to
assert, turn the balance at G or 7 lbs. A shanked berry has never been
.e-n in the whole house. The magnificent bunches which secured the

first prize at the Westminster Aquarium and at Birmingham last year
were grown in this house. West’s St. Peter’s on the back wall was also
doing well. Mr, Harman is a strong advocate for plenty of light in
vineries. The laterals are allowed to extend till the trellis is covered ^
some of them being six or seven leaves beyond the bunch ; in fact, they
look more like young canes than laterals. The sub-laterals are pinched
back to one leaf, for the purpose of throwing as much energy as possible
into the main leader, as he avers there is more support in one primary
leaf than there is in a dozen sub-laterals.

The trees in pots were exceptionally good, the varieties being — PlumSr
Coe’s Golden Drop, Jefferson’s, and Denniston Superb ; Peaches^
Alexander, Gros Mignonne, and Crimson Galande ; Nectarines, Elruge
and Lord Napier ; Cherries, May Duke, Mammoth, and Bigarreau
Napoleon, The Cherries were over at the time of my visit, and the
trees placed out of doors to mature their growth for another season.
Alexander Peach, which is looked upon by many gardeners as being
subjected to bud-dropping, gives but little trouble in that respect hercr
both the trees in pots and on the back wall being well cropped.
Tomatoes are largely in demand. Sutton’s Earliest of All was carrying
an extraordinary crop, in fact the plants had to be very carefully tied
to prevent them breaking down. The fruit was excellent in shape and
flavour, and of a beautiful red colour.

In another house a number of Veitch’s erect flowered Gloxinias were
in full flower, making a grand show, a superb flower of pure white
being especially noticeable. Sobralia macrantba and Oncidium.
flexuosum were in bloom. Cattleyas, Vandas, AeTides, Cypripediums,
and Lselias were well represented. Coelogynes and Calanthes are throw¬
ing up strong pseudo-bulbs, bespeaking a good supply of bloom later on.
Cut flowers and plants for decoration are in great demand, but to judge
from the excellent young plants of Crotons, Dracaenas, Pandanus,.
Dieffenbachias, and various others the supply is ample. Mr. Harman
is no novice in this branch of his business. Ananassa sativa variegata
beautifully coloured is a most useful plant for decorative purposes.
Eucharises in the pits were in splendid condition, the plants being large
and full of vigour, as were also Gardenias growing in 8-incb pots. The
plant stove with its Ficus-clad walls contains many good specimens,
including Dipladenia amabilis, Clerodendron Balfourianum, and Anthu-
rium crystallinum, with its large and shapely leaves of a velvety green
colour lined with crystal white veins. Gioriosa superba trained along
the roof, and flowering profusely, presented a striking appearance. A
huge plant of Miantum concinnum, by far the largest I have seen, is
also deserving of notice. After passing through a beautiful grotto
planted with various Ferns and Lycopodiums, we come to the conserva¬
tory, the centre bed planted with Camellias and Daturas. An immense
plant of Habrothamnus elegans trained to one of the pillars is evidently
quite at home, being laden with flowers. Luculia gratissima planted
out and trained up the back wall was growing vigorously, and bids fair
to supply a good display of flowers later on. Zonal Pelargoniums
arranged along the front stage were magnificent ; the plants were
supplied by Messrs. Cannell & Son, and include some of the leading
varieties of the day.

The large kitchen garden is enclosed by a high brick wall, planted
on both sides with fruit trees. Across the centre of tbe garden and at
right angles with each other run two wide gravel walks, flanked on each
side by herbaceous borders. The walks around the garden are bordered
with bush-trained fruit trees, which are probably as old as the garden
itself. Some of these are taken out every year and replaced by young
ones. The trees forming a line of espalier Apples planted last season
were making capital progress. One quarter of the garden is devoted to
bush fruit, and contains healthy young trees about three years old, and
they were laden with fruit of splendid quality. Although so much has
been done in the way of renovating the fruit plantations much more
has yet to be accomplished. Crops of vegetables of every description
were in excellent condition, but special mention ought to be made of a
grand bed of spring sown Onions. The varieties principally grown are
Bedfordshire Champion, Brown Globe, and James’s Keeping. Border
Carnations, of which a large number are grown, were showing well for
bloom, and from 700 to 800 Gladioli will be most useful later on. As
a successful exhibitor of Chrysanthemums, Mr. Harman needs very
little introduction, and judging from the fin'? condition of tbe plants he
bids fair to prove a very dangerous opponent at the forthcoming
tournaments.

Cedars are well represented in the extensive and well-kept pleasure
grounds. Stretching away to the east are two large ornamental sheets
of water, surrounded by shrubberies and woodland walks. The flower
garden is situated on the south-east side of the house. The beds, which
are geometrically arranged, were filled with all sorts of summer flower¬
ing plants. Zonal Pelargoniums, Tuberous Begonias, Stocks, and Asters
are largely grown, and several beds edged with Sedum acre aureum
were extremely effective. On the well kept lawn sturdy Yews feather
the ground, stately Oaks of noble dimensions, splendid Acacias of great
age, and many other trees and shrubs attract attention on our way to
the rosery. This is circular in shape, and surrounded by high shrub¬
beries. The beds were made and planted by Mr. Harman two or three
years ago, and the display produced must indeed be gratifying to him,
and a reward for his labour. Mrs. William Watson, Pierre Netting,
Ulrich Brunner, Merveille de Lyon, Baroness Rothschild, Miss Jennie
Dickson, Mr. A. Williams, and white La France were particularlv effective.

I cannot close these remarks without thanking Mr. Harman for the
hearty welcome accorded me, and for the ready manner in which he
supplied me with any information I required about the estate —
G. Parrant, Rvghy.

September 21, 1893. 1

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

269

Catasettjm Bungerothi.

This, one of the latest intro¬
ductions amongst the Catasetums,
is probably one of the most showy
Orchids at present cultivated, by
reason of its solid and massive
spikes of almost waxy whiteness
which last in good condition for
some weeks. A fine healthy plant
of the above species, carrying three
grand spikes, has been in bloom
at Cleveley, Allerton, and as it is
one very seldom seen, a note as
to the excellent system of culture
pursued by Mr. Cromwell may be
interesting to some readers. The
plants are grown in baskets sus¬
pended from the roof of the stove,
the compost used being good peat
with the finer particles taken out.
When the plants are in active
growth a plentiful supply of water
is given, occasionally applying very
weak liquid manure. When the
pseudo - bulbs are matured only
sufficient water to keep them from
shrivelling is applied. During the
winter the plants are kept in a
temperature of 60°. If the pseudo¬
bulbs are strong they fiower very
freely. — R. P. R.

The Blue Disas.

Having seen in the Journal
of Horticulture for this week that
“ Specialist,” on page 237, describes
the blue Disa as being of a bluish
purple hue, “ by no means the
brilliant blue some might be led to expect from glowing descrip¬
tions given in past times of the blue Disas at the Cape,” I
would like to say that two years ago I was out in South Africa
during the month of March, and was then given a bunch of
Disas from Table Mountain, amongst them several blue Disas,
the flowers of which were certainly not large, but there was no
doubt as to their hue ; they were unquestionably of a true bright
blue. I have never seen the plant in flower in England, but I
presume Disa lacera is the same as the blue Disa I saw at the
Cape. — A Plant Pilgrim.

INSECTS OF THE FLOWER GARDEN.

[Continued from page 190.')

The snouted mites form a small and singular family, one
member of which Curtis regards as useful to the farmer and
gardener. In this little group we have both land and water species ;
some have no eyes, and others have them of variable number, from

FIG. 38. — CYPRIPEDIUM CENO-SUPERBIENS.

of comparatively small consequence, but in warmer countries they
are larger, their puncture is more virulent, and they multiply speedily }
the rostrum or sucker is barbed, so that it cannot be retracted when
it is once driven into the flesh. In habit most species resemble the
harvest bugs or mites, that is, they commence life as feeders upon
vegetable substances, and afterwards transfer themselves to warm¬
blooded animals or to man. Our native species are eyeless, but this
does not prevent them discovering us and gratifying their thirst for
blood at our expense. Ixodes marginatus is not uncommon in South
England about flower gardens, attaching itself to the grass of lawns
and to low plants along borders. Like its brethren, being of a greenish
or greenish brown colour it is not often noticed. Many persons have
been annoyed by this or some kindred species during the summer of
this year, probably owing to the dryness of the season, and have
perhaps attributed the irritation to some other cause. The presence
of ticks in the flower garden may seem singular ; I imagine they are
sometimes introduced there by dogs. I hese quadrupeds frequently
swarm with ticks, and they are allowed by some persons to range

two to six. Apparently the head is lacking; it takes the form of a
snout attached to the thorax, but it is armed with long narrow
mandibles, also there is a sucker which is enclosed in a sheath.
Our garden species is called Scirus insectorum ; it is brownish, has
a bristly body and legs, being thereby no doubt able to cling firmly
to those insects upon which it is parasitic. This snouted mite is
sometimes found adhering to the legs of wandering spiders, but it is
more frequently noticed upon the wireworm beetles, the Elaters,.
and it also infests the Tipulse or craneflies, so troublesome to us
in their larval stage. They occur in parties upon many of the
insects to which they cling, and that by their proceedings they
must weaken these is obvious ; hence they help to diminish the
number of our foes.

The ticks, which form the family Ixodidie, are in our cool climate

CYPRIPEDIUM CENO-SUPEBIENS.

The Cypripedium depicted in the engraving (fig. 38) is a very
bright and handsome form. As mentioned last week it is the
result of a cross between C. oenanthum and C. superbiens, and
when exhibited by Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., at the Drill Hall
on September 12th, the Orchid
Committee of the Royal Horti¬
cultural Society adjudged an award
of merit for it. The prevailing
colour is a brownish red, this
suffusing the petals and lip. The
former are bold and spreading,
the latter being somewhat pointed.

As shown in the illustration the
dorsal sepal is broad and impos¬
ing. It is heavily lined with choco¬
late dots and suffused with rose
margined with white.

270

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 21, 1893,

their gardens; in consequence the mature insects fall from the dogs
and deposit their eggs, the young mites, as already noted, subsisting
upon sap at first till they are strong enough to fasten on animals. Jt
is curious that next to dogs the animals most infested by them are
bats and snakes. On the Continent people much plagued by ticks
have found advantage in applying to the skin strong tobacco water.

The beetle mites of the genus Oribates are little known in
Britain, having rather escaped observation so far, though they may
be almost as numerous with us as they are in France. Individuals
have occasionally been observed amongst Orchids, or shaken from
the moss and sphagnum used in the cultivation of some kinds, and
companies have been found under the bark of fruit trees, or hiding
amongst lichens. Boisduval considers these mites are friends to
horticulture, since he has had proof that they devour the eggs of
thrips and other insects detrimental to choice plants. Their name
was suggested by their beetle-like aspect under a glass, the body
being rounded, black, and shining, with curious hairs or tubercles ;
the legs have double claws, yet their movements are slow. Also the
beetle mites have no eyes, nor a sucker, but feed by means of
mandibles. One naturalist says these mites should be “ encouraged ”
if we knew how.

Rather a familiar object to us in country gardens these autumn
days is the beetle Geotrupes stercorarius, possessor of several English
names, such as the dor, the dumble-dor, and the watchman. We
notice it dragging itself laboriously along the paths during daylight,
and after dusk it careers clumsily about, having a habit of knocking
against our persons, thereby bringing itself to grief. We see the point
of one of its names when we take one of these useful beetles up
and find that it is weighted with a load of mites, which hold on
tightly to the body and thighs. The humble bees that we see visit¬
ing the later flowers of the season may be observed bearing about
as they fly undesirable companions of the same kind, and though
they seem indifferent such parasites cannot tend to the benefit of the
insects thus infested. A young lady of my acquaintance sometimes
occupies herself in freeing this “shard-borne beetle” from its encum¬
brances if she comes upon a specimen. It is observable that the
mites seldom live long when removed, appearing to be unable to
re-attach themselves to another victim. These mites are Gamasids,
some of them having the skin horny all over ; in others it is soft and
pliant. In colour they are yellowish or brown. They have man¬
dibles with nippers, and a sort of sucker peculiar to themselves ; also
they are eyeless. On the supposition that in their early stage of
life they feed upon manure or amongst damp earth, we may under¬
stand how, when they change their food, they can soon transfer
themselves to beetles and humble bees. Gamasus marginatus is the
commonest of the group, being about as large as the head of a good-
sized pin. A smaller Gamasid occurs upon some garden beetles,
crowded together on the under side of the insect. The mites look
like a number of tiny shining scales or cocci. Occasionally they are
piled upon each other, and if an attempt is made to remove them it
is discovered that every mite is secured by a small tough thread.
Some species of this family occur upon the shores of the ocean, and
a too well-known very prolific species is the so-called tick that
annoys canaries and ether small birds, also domestic poultry. This
is Dermanyssus avium, and it seems to be a bloodsucker throughout
its history. It has been found in colonies of all ages upon birds,
and under some circumstances may doubtless infest human beings.

The H3 popidae are also parasitic upon other insects, specially on
many flies that are common in gardens ; but some attack beetles
and bees. They possess a sucker, though jaws seem to be wanting.
The front pair of legs are elongated, and the body is smooth and
velvety. They are supposed to undergo some very singular trans¬
formations ; but these are imperfectly known, owing to the minute
size of the mites. De Geir was the first naturalist who noticed
them. They were detected by him in 1735 occurring upon house
flies and allied species in such numbers that the thorax and abdomen
of the insects appeared to have a sort of coating. When removed
the mites could run rapidly. Those that live upon beetles some¬
times conceal themselves in a cluster under the wing cases ; and we
must conclude that with these, and still more with flies, the attacks
of such mites tend to check their increase, and as parasites they
have their utility. Some of the French scientists think that the
Hypopidse may be frequently feeders upon vegetable matters when
young, since in 1873 and 1874 the Mushroom crops about Paris
sustained damage from a mite which was presumed to be one of
these species in an early stage. — Entomologist.

PLAIN WORDS ON PRUNING FRUIT TREES.

Of all the various branches in the art of gardening there is not one
which requires more skill and experience than the care of fruit trees.
To the world in general this may appear to be one of the easiest of a
gardener s duties, to the true gardener it is a pleasant mental and

manipulative occupation. Few amateurs understand the subject of
pruning, and being afraid of making mistakes put oil the work from
day to day, until it is too late to act effectively. Yet amateurs should
learn something of the art in question. Every house should have a
garden attached capable of producing enough fruit for home con¬
sumption, and what more interesting change for a man who has been
engaged in a close office or workshop all day than to spend an hour or
so in his fruit garden in the evening? The trees must be trainefl, and
useless shoots removed that would obstruct the light and prevent the for¬
mation of fruit buds. The amateur who wishes to learn how to prune
should try and make acquaintance with a practical gardener who will
give him a few lessons. Then the gardening papers distribute useful
information. Every person interested in gardening should take in at
least one of them weekly, and he will find in a few years that he has
made a good investment.

As there are different kinds of trees so there are different kinds of
pruning — for instance, summer pruning, winter pruning, and root-
pruning, and I should like to write a few plain words about them.

Summer Pruning.

This chiefly consists in pinching back side shoots to induce them to
form fruit spurs and prevent overcrowding. It is very important to
keep the head of the tree open to admit sun for ripening and colouring
the fruit and maturing the wood. A young bush tree may have half a
dozen branches, and if fruit spurs are formed on these there will be very
little to cut away ; but the natural inclination of young trees is to
make wood.

The pruner must exercise judgment in determining the shoots to cut
away and those he must leave. He must keep well in his mind’s eye
the future formation of his tree, and not stop the growth of the leading
shoots required for extension. If a tree were allowed to grow in its
natural manner it would be many years before it would bear fruit. A
tree first devotes its energies to making wood, and not until the branches
are well developed and vigour subdued does it produce heavy crops
of fruit ; but as good land is often scarce and dear, and life short.
Art must step in and assist Nature to induce early fructification.

Peach Trees in Summer. — These call for more than ordinary
attention. All useless wood must be cut away, and the shoots for the
next year’s crop neatly laid in, as the Peach bears its fruit on the young
wood. Snoots that start from the old wood should be encouraged to
keep the tree well clothed with foliage ; there are no bare branches on a
Peach tree that has been well looked after. The shoots for bearing next
season must be selected as near the base of the fruiting branch as
possible. Do not bruise or in any way damage the tree, for gumming
would certainly occur in the bruised part, and eventually the branch
would die, spoiling the shape of the tree.

Fig Trees. — The summer pruning of the Fig consists in thinning out
the young shoots similar to that recommended for the Peach, In the
Fig tree the embryo fruit is formed near the apex of the shoot late in the
summer, therefore it must not be shortened in winter. The best plan to
adopt is to lay in two shoots, one for bearing and the other to be cut
back, as will be explained in winter pruning. The fruit formed in
summer that obtains any size larger than a pea would, if left, drop off
in the following spring. If the fruit can be seen in August it will not
become perfect in the following season. The best plan to adopt is to
rub off all small Figs that can be seen in the month named. Old trees
do not make much wood, and in favourable situations produce good
crops.

Cherry Trees. — These require attention during the summer in pinch¬
ing young side growths to four good leaves, for inducing the formation
of fruit buds to form. The upper part of the tree should be pruned a
week before the remainder to strengthen the lower branches and check
the upper ones, so as to have equality in growth all over the tree. These
remarks apply to Sweet Cherries. Morellos require different treatment.
They make more slender growths, and generally form fruit buds the
whole length of the shoots, oftentimes with only a terminal wood bud.
The treatment should be similar to that given to the Peach — namely,
young growths laid in to take the place of the fruiting shoots, which are
to be cut out in the winter. Standard trees do not require much
summer pruning after the tree is formed. Plum trees should be treated
similarly to early or dessert Cherries.

Rasjyherries. — Suckers should be removed in the summer with the
exception of three or four, from which the next year’s crop is expected,
and these trained to a stake. Those tied to it should also be thinned
and evenly disposed for producing stout canes for ripening.

Bush Fruits. — These, whether Gooseberries or Currants, should not
be allowed to grow into a thicket in the summer, as that practice prevents
fruit, whereas our object is to produce it. This is accomplished by so
thinning and shortening the breastwood in summer that the sun can
shine into the bushes. Fruit generally follows the sun, barrenness the
shade caused by crowding.

Strawberries. — The pruning (if it can be so called) of these consist
in cutting away all runners except those required for layering to form
new plantations, and after the fruit is gathered all old and useless
leaves, to admit light and air to proper ripen the crowns.

Apples and Pears. — The summer pruning of these consists in pinch¬
ing the side shoots to four or five good leaves, and subsequent growths
to one leaf. This leads to the formation of fruit buds, but care must be
taken to leave the leading shoots unpinched ; also the formation of
young trees must be considered. If the tree was started with four
branches, and these shortened in winter, the next year it should have

September 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

271

eight ; in the summer following care must be taken not to cut away
shoots that will be wanted for the formation of the tree. I will next
refer to winter pruning, — A Working Gardener.

(To be continued.)

Early Flowering Chrysanthemums.

The communication from your able correspondent “ P.” (page 249)
has a tone of sadness about it quite out of keeping with the weather.
It appears he would fain see better things than Chrysanthemums, but
does not make it at all clear as to how that end is to be accomplished.
I journeyed to Westminster on the occasion mentioned by “ P.” under
the impression we should see a very fine display of early flowering
Chrysanthemums, for there has been no rain to spoil even the outdoor
flowers. On arriving at the Aquarium I was disappointed to see the
whole exhibits of the National Chrysanthemum Society staged on one
table, or perhaps a series of tables at the end of the building. When I
reflected on the numerical strength of the Society, I felt surely there
must be something wrong. Where were the collections of groups of
plants so much admired in former years? I was eventually told there
was no class in the schedule for groups this season at the early Show.

The competition in the cut flower classes was very meagre. Why?
I was informed because the prizes offered were not enough to pay the
carriage of exhibits any distance. Surely these are not the lines upon
which to conduct a National Society. I was glad to see such a
beautiful collection of Dahlias, otherwise I should have had my journey
for nothing. At the same time, I heartily agree with your correspondent,
when Chrysanthemums are staged in such company they are not very
brilliant. Again, where were the numerous new varieties we have
imported during the last few years ? Some, I know, are acquisitions,
having tried them, but why they failed to put in an appearance on such
an auspicious occasion is a mystery to me. — J. B. R.

SOFT versus hard COLD WATER FOR PLANTS.

The above heading does not accurately indicate the point which
arose in conversation between Mr. Dunn and myself, and which 1
thought readers of the Journal might like to discuss. The question was
not the relative values of soft and hard water, but whether hard cold
water was positively injurious to plants or not. The comparison referred
to broadens the discussion somewhat, and others may like to give their
opinion upon it, but I will content myself with meeting Mr. Dunn’s
wishes, and endeavouring to prove that hard cold water is neither an
“ obnoxious drug ” nor “ slow poison to vegetation in general.”

First, I should like to correct any mistaken impression which may
have arisen through your correspondent referring to my having “ thought
right to divulge ” his “secret ideas.” These words would imply that
I have been guilty of a breach of confidence in having made public
what was looked upon as private; but so far from this being the case it
was an agreement between us, clearly understood on both sides, that
readers of the Journal should have the question placed before them for
their experience and opinion to decide the point at issue. I feel sure
that the Oakleigh gardener would be the last to wish so unjust an
impression to be formed of his words on page 214 as that I had
betrayed his confidence.

There is such a mass of material and such a flood of instances at the
command of anyone who looks about him to prove that hard cold water
is the very reverse of harmful to plants when judiciously used that only
a fraction of them can be quoted. The first I will refer to is one
bringing in the twin points of health and freedom from insects. One
of the largest establishments for market plants and flowers (not fruit
and vegetables) is in the South of London, and one of the features of it
is a very large house filled with one of the finest Stephanotises in the
country. The growths cover hundreds of feet, and they are a picture
of health, the foliage shining with the rich deep hue of perfect con¬
dition. No trace of mealy bug can ever be found in this house, which
yields thousands of sprays, but no special preparation is employed for
cleansing it. The only insecticide used is water, syringed on constantly
and forcibly, water from tanks fed by pipes connected with the water
company’s mains. It is impossible for the insects to gain a footing under
the drenchings that are applied. They do not stop to ascertain whether
the water is hard or soft, they have no time for arguing that point,
although according to Mr. Dunn’s theory they would simply indulge in
a disdainful sniff at tap water, and then treat it with silent contempt.
Do they do this? No, they ignominiously depart. Evidently they are
craven-hearted creatures not possessing half the determination of those
in the East Grinstead district. “ J. B. R.” (page 239) has spared me the
trouble of more market references.

Then there are the parks. I was admiring Battersea Park a few
days ago. The bedding is beautiful, the Chrysanthemums sturdy and
healthy. But they do not get soft water. They have been “ poisoned ”

with hard all through this rainless season. They ought to be dead, but
they are alive — very much alive. A more vigorous collection of plant-
corpses I never saw. I might even say that, magnificent as are the
flowers and Chrysanthemums at Oakleigh, those at Battersea Park are
equally creditable to the grower. If this does not draw’ an admission of
error from Mr. Dunn I do not know what will. I feel that it is the
most subtle shaft which I can hurl, but still I will make a short reference
to the nurseries in order to “ pile conviction on conviction’s head.” In
the trade establishments this year I have seen hundreds of thousands of
plants in perfect health and cleanliness. How does your correspondent
imagine that in a season like this, when millions of gallons have been
wanted daily, nurserymen have been able to avoid using tap water ?
Their plants have not succumbed to the “ obnoxious drug.” Perhaps
they are tougher than his.

Lastly, so far as the present communication is concerned, there are
the thousands of amateurs before referred to. In towns they use tap, in
the country well water. Where it is practicable I agree that they would
be wise to expose their water to the sun and air, but my present task is
to show that without that they achieve success. The best cultivators
among them have clean and healthy plants all the year round, and when
they fail it is not because the water is hard, but generally because too
much or too little is given. The fact of others succeeding with the same
kind of water is proof of this.

I have said all I have time for, and perhaps sufficient to meet the
case. If not I will try again. There are degrees of hardness in water
just as there are in temperature. Water drawn from town cisterns is
neither so hard nor cold as that pumped up from the bowels of the
earth, but both are beneficial if properly used. In my view hard cold
water is a “ slow poison ” of about the same virulence as tobacco to the
old smoker who had puffed at his pipe for sixty years. “ Slow,” said he.
“ Yes — very ! ” — W. P. W.

After reading “ J. B. R.’s” article upon this subject on page 239
in your last issue, I feel almost tempted to covet a few gallons of the
“hard cold water” that has produced such marvellous results. I am
not in the least surprised to learn that “J. B. R.” has waited
“ anxiously ” for the opportunity of thoroughly demolishing my “ out
of date” ideas by such “stubborn facts.” What interpretation are we
to put upon this word stubborn? The true meaning of stubborn 1 take
is unreasonably obstinate ; therefore it strikes me as rather singular
in glancing at the commencement and conclusion of his article to find
that by “ unreasonably obstinate facts he has proved that I am
whimsical.”

Allow me for a moment to look into these “stubborn facts” The
very first one shakes faith and leaves doubts — namely, “J. B. R.’s”
assurance that in entering a market garden “ where nothing else but
cold water was used he found the crops far superior to anything seen
in private gardens.” His opportunities for seeing the work of some of
the best practical men has evidently been limited, and he undoubtedly
weakens his case by his statement, which is really a reflection on many
of the best cultivators in the world ; but it seems evident that he was
not trained under them, hence, perhaps, his sweeping dogmatism.

It is acknowledged by practical and scientific authorities that water
has a considerable effect in cooling soil, and also that cold wet soil is far
from being so fertile as soil that is properly drained. Why ? Because
the drainage of wet soil results in a greater warmth, and consequently
an earlier and more vigorous growth of vegetation. Does not this alone
prove how essential it is to keep the soil of growing plants reasonably
warm according to the seasons? Will “ J. B. R.” kindly explain why
crops and plants in general grow so much more freely after a warm
shower than they do after a eold shower ? We shall then be a trifle nearer
the actual point. My experience is quite the reverse of “ J. B. R.’s’'
“ as to the fertilising properties of hard water.” Here is a fact which
can be substantiated by one who occupies a high position in the garden¬
ing ranks. A Rose house was erected about twelve miles from Loudon,
and water laid on direct from the main. The Roses were planted in good
substantial soil, and kept constantly watered and syringed with the
“ hard cold water ; ” result, a miserable failure. The plants refused tO'
grow, and mildew was constantly appearing. After repeated trial* to
improve them, a tank was fixed inside the house exposed to light and
sunshine. The plants when watered and syringed with this “ warm soft
water” changed in a few weeks, and in twelve months the Roses were
growing vigorously and producing splendid blooms — the Marfichal N els
quickly paying for the tank, and leaving a weighty purse over. Otaer
equally convincing facts can be supplied if space permits.

I have no wish to dispute the point of colour and appearance
raised respecting Palms grown for market, but “ hard cold water ” is
not the only stimulant used to produce luxuriant growth, or why do so
many turn a pale, sickly colour in a few weeks after being bought ? Do
they miss the “ hard cold water ” or the stimulants used to bring them
to perfection quickly ? I pass over the Grape question, having no wish
to bring down the overladen houses upon my head, although I must
confess to a lurking disposition to inspect the poorly built structure
and cast a critical eye over the “finish ” of those heavily cropped Vines
which my “ slow poison ” has stimulated to such an alarming exrent.
Just a word of advice to “ J. B. R.” Carefully preserve ail articles
upon shanking that may appear for presentation to the proprietor of that
large Grape-growing establishment.

Lastly, we turn to Chrysanthemums watered with“ hard cold water’'
by hose, and picture for a moment the effects of this stimulant so
lavishly used in contrast to those carefully watered with “ warm soft

272

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 21, 1893.

water.” Watch those stern judges as they wander along the boxes of
blooms produced by such opposite treatment, and I venture to say
without fear of contradiction, that those nurtured with “ warm soft
water” will be the first to command attention.

I am glad that “ J. B. R.” finds one “ novel ” point in my “ out of
date” ideas. This is curious, and I fail to reconcile the two statements,
“ Novel ” and “ out of date.” “ Novel ” I take to mean of recent origin,
" out of date” a bygone, exhausted error. Can “ J. B. R.” explain these
somewhat contradictory terms 1

1 still maintain that “ warm soft water,” although “ novel ” to your
correspondent, is one of the safest and cheapest insecticides for ridding
Peach and other trees of red spider. Allow me to point “ J. B. R.” to
the concluding words of your able and practical correspondent Mr. G.
Garner (page 241) — viz., “Avoid the use of cold water.” Is not this
another convincing proof that my ideas are not based upon imagination
or odd fancies, but are purely plain unvarnished truths which no
stubborn facts ” as related can prove “ whimsical ?” — F. Dunn.

Jean Baptiste Guillot.

This distinguished rosarian who has just now passed away is the
third of those French raisers whom we have recently lost, and was
certainly the foremost of the three in the services which they rendered
to horticulture. Margottin and Charles Verdier have left behind them
but one or two Roses that are likely to perpetuate their names ; not so,
however, Guillot, the raiser of Horace Vernet and La France amongst
Hybrid Perpetuals, and Catherine Mermet, Edith Giffard, Comtesse de
Nadaillac, Ernest Metz, Etoile de Lyon and Madame Hoste varieties,
which will long, I bslieve, perpetuate his memory, and which have won
him the lasting gratitude of all lovers of the Rose.

It is many years since I made his acquaintance. His father was then
alive, and we used to call him young Guillot, though he must at that
time have been forty years of age. He was an amiable and much
respected honest man, and the high position of most of the Roses he
sent into commerce is in itself an ample testimony to the correctness of
his judgment. He was not actuated merely by the considerations of
pecuniary gain that his Roses might bring to him, as the following
incident will illustrate. When I visited his garden, after showing me
his other treasures, he said, “ I have here a Rose which I think will be
the parent of a new race,” and he brought me over to see the seedling
plant of La France. I was so taken by it that I ventured on behalf of
a London nurseryman to offer him a sum of money which would have
been considered by many Frenchmen as quite a fortune. “ No,” was his
reply, “ I will not part with it. I believe it will perpetuate my memory,
and so I would rather it should go out as mine.” I cannot but think
he was right. In one thing, however, so far, he was somewhat too
sanguine, for La France has up to this time never eiveu a pod of seed,
although I hear that Messrs. Dickson & Son of Newtownards have a
seedling from it.

Lyons was so far south, and the journey is a long and tedious one, that
English rosarians did not come in contact with him so often as they did
with his Parisian confreres. Thus while I frequently visited Margottin
and Verdier, I paid only one visit to Guillot. But all who did so can
bear testimony t) the fact that he was an intelligent and pleasant
companion and an enthusiast in his love of the flower for which he had
done so much. — D., Deal.

OSIERS.

It has been represented to the Board of Agriculture that it would be
useful that they should obtain and publish some information respecting
the cultivation of Osiers, with a view to direct the attention of agricul¬
turists and others to a special industry for which there would appear to
be some room for development in certain parts of this country. The
Board have, therefore, collected certain particulars, and have obtained a
report by one of their Inspectors — Mr. W. C. Little of Stags Holt,
March, who was assisted in his inquiries by Mr. J. Brown of Wisbech —
as to the conditions under which Osier growing is now pursued in the
Fen districts, from which the following notes have been compiled.

There are no official records of the quantity of Osiers imported into
this country, but it has been estimated that some thousands of tons are
received from abroad annually. There is also said to be a large and
increasing importation of baskets. The number of baskets required for
the fruit industry alone is considerable, and it must increase with the
extension of fruit cultivation. Formerly the fruit was generally packed
in baskets made of red or unpeeled Osiers, but white Osier baskets are
almost invariably used now.

Osier Willows are grown in nearly every country in Europe. Their
eultivation has received special attention in France, Belgium, Holland,
parts of Germany, and South Russia,

In France Osiers occupy large areas in the valleys of the Aisne, Oise,
Loire, Gironde, and on the banks of the Dordogne and Rhone. The
basket Osier (Salix viminalis) is largely grown in the departments of
Aisne and Ardennes.

The area under Osiers in Belgium, according to the latest official
returns, amounts to 11,036 acres, the larger portion of this surface is in
the provinces of Antwerp and Bast Flanders, which have 3780 and 2811
acres respectively.

In Bavaria great efforts have been made to improve the cultivation
of Osiers, and the area devoted to Osier holts in that country is steadily
increasing.

Osier Growing in the Fen Country.

The term Osier is popularly used as comprehending all the trees or
shrubs of the Salix genus, which are cultivated as a crop to be
converted by the basket maker and similar craftsmen into various
articles which are known as wickerwork. The genus Salix includes
Willows, Sallows, and Osiers. Most of the kinds grown for a crop in
the Fen district are, it is stated, really Willows, and not Osiers. At any
rate, while growers use the term in a collective sense they limit the
term when distinguishing sorts of rods to a coarse growing, softwooded
species, which peels indifferently, and is only grown in limited quantities
for a particular purpose.

Osiers are grown in enclosed plantations, which are locally known
as holts. The produce of the Osier holt is known commercially as
“ rods.”

Green rods are fresh cut and unpeeled.

Brown rods are those which have been left to dry in their skins.

White rods are those which have had the bark removed or peeled.

Buff rods are produced by boiling brown rods and then peeling them;
but the colour thus produced is imitated by dyeing.

In the Fen district the growth of Osiers is chiefly carried on in
unembanked river valleys which are subject to flooding. A variety of
circumstances contribute perhaps to this situation being almost
universally selected. It is not merely that this is the natural habitat of
the genus, and that the soil is suitable, but the convenience of having
close at hand water carriage for a bulky and heavy crop, which must
be for the most part removed in a green state, has ao doubt tended to
restrict the growth of Osiers almost entirely to the borders of rivers. An
additional reason for the selection of such sites is, that the periodical
winter floods bring down from the uplands a considerable quantity of
soil, which acts as a fertiliser and is obtained at a comparatively cheap
rate. Floods, however, are occasionally the cause of considerable injury
to the holts. An ice flood cuts the rods and seriously damages them.
Sheet ice settling down on the holt will entirely destroy a crop, and a
spring flood, which entirely covers the young shoots, will kill them ; but
freshets, which disappear quickly and which do not rise above the tops
of the rods, do no harm.

The area of Osier holts in the district in question has been approxi¬
mately estimated as follows : —

In the Ouse Valley, between St. Ives (Hunts)

and Denver (Norfolk) ... ... ... ... 190 acres.

In the Cam Valley, near Cambridge and Ely ... 108 „

In the Nene Valley, in the neighbourhood of

Peterboro’ . 00 „

In the Welland Valley, around Spalding and

Crowland . 130 ,,

But these estimates exclude considerable areas above St. Ives, Peter¬
boro’, and Cambridge.

Ely and Barith are centres of a considerable growth of Osiers, of rod
peeling, and of basket making.

There can be no doubt that the extent of Osier holts in the Fen
district is now much less than it was ; but at the present moment there
is some evidence of increased interest in the subject and greater atten¬
tion to the business. The industry is apparently becoming more of a
speciality, and basket makers are planting holts in some instances to
supply their own requirements.

The Cultivation of the Osier.

The most suitable soil for the growth of Osiers is a deep, rich, moist,
alluvial soil. Any good clay may be planted if sufficiently moist. Peat
moor and hot gravels are absolutely unsuitable. Though water is
requisite, a holt will not thrive in stagnant water.

The site of a holt having been selected, the land must be thoroughly
cleaned during the summer before planting, and it may be worth while
to give it a complete summer fallow. Before the winter sets in it must
be thoroughly stirred either by digging or ploughing to a depth of 14 or
16 inches.

If the soil is not naturally rich it should be manured, and soot is
said to be a good preparation for the crop.

Planting should be done in February or March. The sets are cut
from wood of two years’ growth — they should be 16 or 18 inches long,
and about 10 inches of the set should be in the ground. Daring the
spring and early summer the spaces between the rows must be kept
clean by hoeing and forking. The cleaning must be completed before
the middle of June, or the Osiers will be injured. The cost of cleaning
is variously estimated at from £1 to £2 per acre per annum for the first
two years. After that time the expense of cleaning is much less, as
the dense and rapid growth of the Osiers stifles and smothers all other
vegetation. It may be mentioned in passing that the young shoots from

September 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

273

an established stock will make a growth of 18 inches in the course of a
single week.

Under the most favourable circumstances the newly planted holt will
be at maturity in three years, but as a general rule four or five years
must elapse before its full development.

A holt properly planted, kept clean, regularly filled up, and well
managed will last from ten to fifteen years, the duration depending
upon the sorts planted and various circumstances which affect the
several kinds of Osiers in different ways.

The Willows and Osiers usually grown in the Fen district are known
locally by names indicative either of some characteristic of the tree or
of the country from which it has come. The favourite sorts are : —

Glibskins. — In some situations this kind is particularly liable to
scab,” a disease to which reference is made later on.

Black Mauls. — Small, but hard and tough, and consequently
valuable.

Green Sucklings, — A heavy cropper, but not liked by the basket
maker.

Welsh Osier. — This has a very bitter rind, which is disagreeable to
all animals, and it is planted on the outsides of holts.

Black Hollanders, Mottled Spaniards, Cane Osiers, and Dutch Red.

A certain proportion of the coarse-growing Osiers may be grown, as
the basket makers require some strong stout rods for uprights ; where
they are not grown their place is supplied by leaving a portion of the
holt to grow for two or three years.

The cost of preparing and planting an Osier holt is variously
estimated at from £14 to £23 an acre — the amount depending upon
whether the land is trenched or ploughed and upon the preparatory
cleaning which may be necessary.

Taking an outside estimate, the items of expenditure would be as
follows : —

Fallowing . £4 0 0 an acre.

Trenching . 8 0 0 „

Sets, 20,000 at 10s. per 1000 10 0 0 „

Planting . ... 10 0 ,,

£23 0 0

This is without any allowance for manure.

On the other hand, if fallowing is not required and ploughing is
resorted to, the cost would not exceed £14 an acre.

The Osiers attain to their full growth by the middle of September,
by which time the rods on established plants will have made a
growth of 6 to 7 feet. Osiers and Sallows will make an average growth
of 8 or 9 feet, and occasionally as much as 13 feet, in a single season.

Cutting the rods commences with the new year if the holts are
accessible. Sometimes, however, floods or other circumstances prevent
the early cutting, and the process has to be postponed. It is, however,
considered very desirable to cut before the sap rises, as the stocks bleed,
and the new growth is less vigorous if the sap has risen before cutting.
The rods are cut with a sharp hook, somewhat like a strong reaping
hook ; a clean cut without splitting the rod is essentially necessary. As
the rods are cut they are tied up by willow bands into bundles or
“ bunches.” Each bunch has a girth of 45 inches (an English ell) at a
distance of 1 foot from the butt end of the bunch. The “ ell band ” is
secured in its place by attachment to another band, called the “ breech
band," round the butt end. A third band is placed higher up. The
cutting is paid for by the score bunches, the ordinary rate being 23. 6d.
An average crop will be about 150 bunches, and a heavy crop will reach
to 250. A green bunch will weigh 6 stones. The weight of rods per
acre will range from 5 to 10 tons.

It has already been observed that it is a great advantage if this
bulky and heavy crop can be removed by water carriage.

If the rods are to be peeled they are conveyed to the peeling yard
and placed with their butt ends in water, where they remain until the
rise of sap makes the peel separate easily from the stick. Sometimes
after the rods are cut they will dry from exposure to the air, and in
that case they are put in a heap, watered, covered and sweated, or
“ couched ” as it is called. If the rods in the pits get too advanced in
growth before peeling the difficulty of peeling is increased, and the rods
are damaged. The work of peeling begins as soon as any of the rods
are fit. It is chiefly done by women, who draw the rods through a
“ break ” or “ cleave,” which divides the bark into strips, which are
removed by the hand. The children of the peelers assist in this latter
operation.

As the rods are peeled they are sorted into three grades — " large,”
■“ Middlesboro,” and “ small ” rods, according to their size and length.
They are then exposed to the air for a short time on racks, or reared
against hedges or walls. When dry they are tied up in bunches of the
same dimensions as before, and stored away in sheds.

Rods which are adapted for the purpose, and which are, in conse¬
quence, most valuable, are subjected to another process known as
“ skeining.” This is the longitudinal division of the rod by splitting it
into equal parts. The thick end of the rod is nicked with a knife,
dividing the circle into three sectors. A triple wedge is then inserted,
and the rod is drawn rapidly through the hand. The split canes are
then drawn twice under a knife fixed to a gauge to remove the outer
ring and inner angle, and the cane is reduced to a flat thin strip of
equal thickness. These “ skeins ” are used for weaving sieve and riddle
bottoms, and for making basket handles and similar articles. Green rods
are “ skeined ” by the same process for making eel grigs and hives,

(To be continue!,)

CODONOPSIS (GLOSSOCOMIA) OVATA.

The plant represented in the engraving (fig. 39) was introduced
under the name of Glossocomia, but which has been superseded by
that of Codonopsis in the “Genera Plantarum.” It is easily culti¬
vated after the seedling stage has been passed, a good plan being to sow
the seed in pots in a heated frame, pricking out the young plants as
soon as they are large enough in boxes or pans, planting them out the
following spring, but guard against breaking the very brittle roots.

The choice of position will be the next consideration ; the sunniest
and most exposed that can be selected will be the best, planting them
6 inches apart, and the roots must not be disturbed by digging. The
flowers are large, as may be seen, but are best viewed at a distance, the

■•5 fig. 39.— codonopsis (glossocomia) OVATA.

odour being anything but "agreeable, and resembling somewhat that
of the Aristolochia ; the colours inside the flowers are very pretty and
curiously blended. This is one of the few flowers, we believe, that
are self-fertilising, that process being accomplished before the flower
opens by a curious movement 'of the anthers. It ripens seeds freely,
and is readily increased by that means. It is a native of Northern
India, and flowers during the summer.

HORTICULTURAL SHOWS.

EDINBURGH.— September 13th and 14th.

The autumn Show held annually in connection with the Royal
Caledonian Horticultural Society took place on the above dates. The
exhibits were numerous though not so much so as in previous years,
this being more especially noticeable in the classes for Grapes. Apples
were as a whole the best feature of the exhibition, though vegetables
were well shown. Amongst these latter Onions were exceedingly good.
The arrangements of the Show were not praiseworthy in any way, the
utmost confusion prevailing. The judges had much difificulty in finding
the classes, and the work of reporting was rendered arduous ; in fact it
was found impossible owing to the manner in which the exhibits were

274

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t September 21, 1893.

arranged to give a full account of the prize winners, and those who were
successful in the principal classes only are named in the appended list.
Daring the two days about 20,000 people visited the exhibition.

Fruit.

As already stated, Apples were the chief feature of the Show. Grapes,
on the other hand, have nob for many years been so poorly represented
at any of the autumn meetings of this Society. Some of the exhibits
were of exceptional merit ; but generally, the quality, like the numbers
shown, was below the average. Collections of fruit, again, were only
few in number. Pears were staged in large numbers, but in quality
they were generally inferior to Apples, among which were many
dishes of exceptional merit. Few Peaches were shown, and fewer
Nectarines and Figs, though Plums, notwithstanding the early nature
of the season and the unremitting attention of wasps, were fairly well
represented.

Taking the collection of fruit first, that of twelve dishes, excluding
Pine Apples, was the chief item, and for the handsome prizes offered
only three competitors staged. The first prize was awarded to Mr.
Hunter, Lambton Castle, Durham, who had some very fine fruit. The
Grapes comprised two very large clusters of Gros Guillaume, each in
beautiful condition, a pair of large-berried examples of Gros Colman,
and a couple of bunches of Raisin de Calabria. Peaches were Exquisite
and Noblesse, both very fine, a dish of splendid Beurrb Diel Pears, fine
King of Pippin Apples, Challenger Lemons, Hero of Lockinge Melon,
the other dishes being rather poor examples of Nectarines, Plums, and
Figs. Mr. A. Kirk, gardener to — Paton, Esq., Alloa, was a close
second. He showed black Grapes only, these being extra fine Alnwick
Seedling, fine Gros Maroc and Black Hamburgh. Among the other
dishes were good examples of Pitmaston Duchess Pear, good Barrington
and Wa! burton Admirable Peaches, Spense’s Nectarines, and Worcester
Pearmain Apples. Mr. McKelvie, gardener to the Duchess of Roxburgh,
Broxmouth Park, Dunbar, was the other exhibitor, and to his collection
the third prize was awarded. Extra fine Muscat of Alexandria and
Souvenir du Congr^s Pears were the outstanding dishes.

For a collection of dishes of fruit, including Pine Apples, there were
again three entries, Mr. Hunter repeating his victory. The Grapes com¬
prised good Gros Colmans and somewhat loose Raisin de Calabrias, fine
Noblesse Peaches, extra Beurrd Diel Pears, fine Magnum Bonum Plums,
Hero of Lockinge Melon, extra fine Cox’s Pomona Apples, and small
Victoria Nectarines. Mr. McKelvie was second with good Muscat of
Alexandria and Madresfleld Court Grapes as the chief dishes. Mr.
Morrison, Archerfield, Drew, third. Only two collections of hardy fruit,
grown in the open air, were staged. Of these the best were shown by
Mr. Goodfellow, Kinfauns Castle, Perth, Peaches Dr. Hogg and Prince
of Wales, and Souvenir du Congres Pears being very fine, the same
collection containing also dishes of good Magnum Bonum Plums and
Morello Cherries. Mr. McIntyre, Darlington, staged the other collection,
to which the second prize was awarded. For a collection of twelve
dishes of orchard house fruit, again there were only two exhibitors,
Mr. Hunter securing first prize with a superb fruit, comprising Pears
Souvenir du Congres and Pitmaston Duchess, Apples Ribston Pippin
and Peasgood’s Nonesuch, Nectarine Peach, Plums, Figs, and Passiflora
edulis, Mr. Bowman, Pittendreich, the other exhibitor, securing the
second prize.

In the Grape classes the most important was that for six bunches.
Five exhibitors staged in this class, the first prize falling to Mr. Kirk
for large and fine clusters of Gros Maroc, Cooper’s Black, Madresfield
Court (two bunches), an excellent bunch of Duke of Buccleuch, and a
less noteworthy cluster of Black Hamburgh. Mr. Leslie, Pitcullen,
Perth, was a very close second, staging two extra fine examples of
Muscat of Alexandria, good Gros Maroc, and Alicante. Mr. Hunter
third, with splendid Gros Colman, Black Alicante, and Gros Guillaume,
the latter having berries very small in size. Five staged in the four-
bunch class, Mr. Leslie worthily securing first prize here with extra
Gros Maroc, a cluster of well-finished Muscat of Alexandria, good
Alicante, and Madresfield Court. The second prize was awarded to Mr.
J. Caldwell, gardener to J. Scott, Esq., Langholm, for good Muscat of
Alexandria, Gros Colman, and Madresfield Court. Third Mr. McKelvie
with bunches somewhat loose.

There was a keen competition in the class for two bunches Muscat
of Alexandria, the first prize being awarded to Mr. McKelvie for good
and well-finished clusters. Mr. Leslie was second with bunches little
behind the first prize exhibit. For one bunch Mr. Waldie, gardener to
W. H. Dobie, Dollar, was first with a well-finished bunch. Black
Hamburgh* throughout were deficient in quality, though numerously
(itaged. Mr. Dickson, Alyth, was first for these ; and Mr. Murray,
Polmont, second. For one bunch Mr. Ch. Blair, gardener to Col.
Maleolm, Langholm, was first. Alicantes were very good, the bunches
large and well finished, Mr. Leslie having the best, and Mr. Caldwell
a good second. Mr. Green was first for Alnwick Seedling with a small,
well-ripened example. Mr. Jeffrey, gardener to Earl of Harewood,
Harewood Hall, in a well-contested class, was first with a superb bunch
of Gros Colman, the berries very large and of high finish. Mr. Murray
second with good examples. Lady Downe’s, on the other hand, v^ere
presented in poor condition, Mr. Murray being first in this class. For a
bunch of any other sort Mr. Kirk was first with an exceedingly fine
bunch of Madresfield Court. Mr. Lunt second with Mrs. Pince. In the
corresponding class for white Grapes Mr. Caldwell, with a very highly
finished Duke of Buccleuch, secured the first prize, and Mr. Smith,
Arundel House, second. Mrs, Pince was the finest flavoured black

Grape, the best flavoured white being Muscat of Alexandria, Mr.
Leslie staging the former, and Mr. Winter, Walk House, Hull, the
latter. Mr. McIntyre, The Glen, secured first prize for the bunch of
Grapes with finest bloom, showing Black Alicante. Mr. Crichton,
Southfield, second with Trentham Black.

Mr. Lunt, Kier House, Dunblane, staged twelve beautifully coloured
fruits of Late Admirable Peaches, securing therewith first prize, Mr.
Melville, with equally good, though pale coloured Princess of Wales,
being second. Plums were fairly good. Mr. Cairns, The Hirsel, Cold¬
stream, secured the first prize for seven dishes of rather small fruits of
dessert sorts, and Mr. Goodfellow, with a like number of varieties, the
first prize for a collection of culinary Plums. The latter comprised
Goliath, Magnum Bonum, Pond’s Seedling, Coe’s Golden Drop, Victoria,
and Blue Impdratrice. Pears were also good, much better than usual,
and a very large number of dishes were staeed in the gross for the
several prizes. For a collection of six sorts Mr. Day, Ga'loway House,
Kirkcudbright, was first with extra fine Pitmaston Duchess, Souvenir du
Congres, Williams’ Bon Chretien, Beurrd Diel, and Marie Louise. Mr.
Campbell, gardener to Lord Swansea, Singleton, South Wales, was
second with fine Pitmaston Duchess, Louise Bonne of Jersev, and others.
Mr. Day was again first for six dessert Pears with good Williams’ Bon
Chretien and Beurre d’Amanlis. The same exhibitor a so secur. d first
for dishes of Marie Louise, Beurrb d’Amanlis, and Pi’ma-ton D i chess.
Mr. Paterson, gardener to A. Fletcher, Esq., Salton Hall, was first in
the class for six Williams’ Bon Chretien with excellent Souvenir du
Congres (was this overlooked by the judges?) and also for a dish of
Glou MorQeau. Mr. Campbell had the best Louise Bonne, and Mr.
Chaplin, Springwood Park, Kelso, the best stewing Pears with fine
Gros Calabasse.

In the Apple classes the collection of twelve sorts was the most
important, and brought together a disp’ay of fruit rarely seen in
Scotland. Mr. Campbell, Singleton, was first for these w th good well
coloured examples of Alfriston, Mfere de Manage, Empen r Alexander,
Blenheim Orange, King of Pippins, Peasgord’s Notusuch, Worcester
Pearmain, Cellini, and o^hqrs. Mr. Culton, Castle Douglas, was second
with better fruit less highly coloured. Ringer, Bismarck, Warner’s King
and New Hawthornden being specially good. Mr. Cairns, The Hiisel,
was third. Mr. Fowler, Merton House, St. Boswells, secured first prize
both for six dessert and six culinary Apples with Peasgood's Nonesuch,
splendid examples no doubt, but hardly in the same matured condition
for dessert as many other sorts on the tables. Mr. Brown, Abercairney,
was second for six dessert Apples with fine fruits of Wor ester Pear¬
main and James Greive of culinary Apples. The sorts mo t numerously,
and at the same time best represented by handsome sam riles wore such
popular sorts as Ecklinville, Stirling Castle, Warner’s King, Tower of
Glamis, Lord Suffield, and Hawthornden, and of dessert Apples, King
of Pippins. Cox’s Orange, James Greive, and Ribston Pippin. Messrs.
Campbell, Singleton ; Culton, C-istle Douglas; Day, Galloway House;
Brown, Abercairney, and Fender, Autoguhey, secured the chief prizes
for the several varieties.

Plants.

In the class for four Adiantums Mr. Farquhar, gardener to R. Croall,
Esq., Blackball, was deservedly awarded the first prize, staging A. penta-
dac ylon, A. gracillimum, A. cuneatum, and A. Plemirgi in good con¬
dition. The second and third prizes were awarded to Mr. Napier,
gardener to P Neill Fraser, E^q., Murrayfield. and Mr. A. Crichton,
gardener to Mrs. Croall, Southfield, Liberton, in the order of their names.
For six Hollies Messrs. J. Dicksons & Son, nurserymen, Edinburgh, were
accorded the first prize for handsome specimens. Messrs. R. B. Laird
and Son, nurserymen, Edinburgh, were the only exhibitors in the class
for twenty-four evergreen shrubs, and were given the first prize. There
were two competitors in the class for a table of plants, and Mr.
McIntyre, Darlington, was placed first with a light graceful arrange¬
ment. The table was principally covered with Crotons, Dracaenas,
Ferns, Palms, Lilium lancifolium (speciosum), Bouvardias, and a few
Orchids. The second prize was won by Mr. Wood, gardener to
J. Buchanan, Esq., Oswald Road, Edinburgh, whose table was composed
of very fine plants, better in many cases than those of Mr. McIntyre,
but lacking the taste in arrangement which was so prominent in the
first prize stand. The premier prize in the class for three Fuchsias went
to Mr. Thomson, gardener to G. Gray, Esq., Dalkeith, who staged highly
creditable specimens. Mr. Aitken, Rosebery Cottage, Balerno, was a
good second, and Mr. Fraser, gardener to the Misses Horn. Canaan
Park, third. Mr. Anderson, gardener to Colonel Davidson, Edinburgh,
was placed first for one Fuchsia, his plant being very finely grown and
profusely flowered. A very close second was found in Mr. Sutherland,
gardener to — Mather, Esq., Edinburgh, Mr. J. Dickson being third.

In the class for six dwarf British Ferns Mr. Anderson with
very beautiful plants was first, staging Asplenium septentrionale,
Scolopendrium Kelwayi, Polypodium cornubiense, P. cambricum,
Allosorus crispus, and Trichomanes radicans. Mr. J. Cumming and
Mr. McPherson were second and third respectively. Mr. Cropper,
gardener to W. B. Boyd, Esq., Faldonshire, was first for twelve dwarf
British Ferns; prominent amongst which were Polypodium cambricum,
Asplenium Trichomanes incisum, and Scolopendrium Robinsonianum,
the second prize going to Mr. Johnstone, gardener to Miss Fulton,
Morningside, who had some very charming plants. Mr. R. Muirhead,
gardener to W, Ivory, Esq., Edinburgh, was placed in the premier
position for three Begonias, showing very beautiful examples, all clean
and finely grown. Mr. Thomson was placed second, and Mr. Taylor,
Musselburgh, third. For six Begonias the first prize went to Mr. D.

September 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

275

Adamg, who showed highly creditable examples. Mr. Henderson’
gardener to W. Macfie, Esq., Cleominster, was second, and Mr. Pearson-
gardener to Lady Lucy Dundas, third. In the class for three bronze
Pelargoniums Mr. Gibb, gardener to Mrs. Edmondston, Edinburgh, was
a good first, Mr. Anderson being second, and Mr. Cowan, gardener to
Mrs. McDowall, Edinburgh, third.

Mr, Bald, gardener to J. Menzies, Esq., Grangetown, was first for
four Pelargoniums in flower, Mr. Muirhead taking the second place.
For three Zonal Pelargoniums Mr. McKenna was first with good plants,
Mr. Gibb being second, and Mr. Fraser third. In the class for six
foliage plants, exclusive of Palms, Mr. Lunt, gardener to A. Stirling,
Esq., of Keir was first, his Dracmna Youngi being particularly good.
The second prize was awarded to Mr. Crichton, and the third to Mr.
W Bennett. Mr, McIntyre, Darlington, was first for six greenhouse
flowering plants, Clerodendron Balfourianum and Eucharis amazonica
being conspicuous. Mr. Bennett was second, and Mr. Crichton third.
Mr. Wilson was accorded the premier position in the class for six foliage
plants in pots not exceeding 9 inches, Crotons being noticeable amongst
others. Mr. McIntyre, gardener to Sir C. Tennant, Bart., was second,
and Mr. McIntyre, Darlington, third.

Cut Flowers.

In the competitive classes cut flowers were not very largely shown,
especially stove and greenhouse blooms. This was not, however, the case
with regard to the Dahlias and the Roses, these being exhibited in great
numbers and in grand condition. In the class for thirty-six Roses
Messrs. J. Cocker & Sons, nurserymen, Aberdeen, were a good first,
staging exceptionally good examples of Victor Verdier, Alfred Dumesnil,
Horace Vernet, Comtesse de Nadaillac, Souvenir d’Elise Vardon,
Madame Lambard, and Alfred Colomb ; Mr. Croll, nurseryman, Dundee,
being second. Messrs. Cocker & Son were again first for eighteen Roses,
and Messrs, Thos. Smith & Son, nurserymen, Stranraer, second. In the
class for twelve Roses the order was reversed, Messrs. Smith & Son being
first, and Messrs. Cocker & Son second. For twelve Fancy Dahlias Mr.
M. Campbell was first with perfect blooms of Silver Prince, Rev. J. B. M.
Camm, Dandy, Gaiety, Buffalo Bill, Mrs. Saunders, Prince Henry,
M. Campbell, Comte de la Saux, Comedian, Madame Soubeyere, and
Frank Pearce, the second prize going to Messrs. J. Cocker & Son.
Mr. M. Campbell was also first for twenty-four Show Dahlias, staging
Mrs. Morgan, Reginald, Wm. Powell, Dandy, Majestic, Maud Fellowes,
T. W. Girdlestonc, Mrs. Humphries, Colonist, Duke of Fife, R. T.
Rawlings, Jas. Cocker, Muriel, W. H. Wil'iams, Mrs. Wm. Slack, John
Hickling, Mrs. Gladstone, Nellie Cramond, Agnes, Ethel Britten, Queen
of the Belgians, Mrs. Langtry, John Walker, and a seedling, Messrs.
Cocker & Son were a highly creditable second.

Vegetables.

The classes for vegetables were as a rule very keenly contested, though
the number of entries in many of the leading classes did not reach those
which have been staged at previous shows. For a collection of vegetables
there were eight competitors, Mr. Harper, gardener to J. R. S. Richard¬
son, Esq., Perth, being first. This stand was composed of Sulham Prize
Celery, VVinningstadt Cabbage, Dobbie’s Champion Leek, Autumn
Mammoth Cauliflower, Cranston’s Excelsior Onion, Long White Marrow,
Scarlet Intermediate Carrots, Matchless Marrowfat Peas, Lockie’s
Perfection Cucumber, Canadian Wonder Beans, Satisfaction Potatoes,
and Glenhurst Favourite Tomatoes, all of which were in fine condition.
Mr. Johnstone, gardener to T. Laidlaw, Esq., Hawick, was second, and
Mr. Rae, gardener to Captain Scott Kerr, Sunlaws, a good third. Mr.
J. Waldie, gardener to W. H. Dobie, Esq., of Dollarbeg, was first for
six Cauliflowers, showing grand heads, Mr. Abbott, gardener to C. M.
Burns, Esq., Prestonfield House, Edinburgh, being a good second. There
were seventeen competitors staged exhibits in this class. For a dish of
twelve Tomatoes Mr. Murray, gardener to T. L. Learmouth, Esq.,
Polmont, was first with grand fruits, Mr. Jeffrey, gardener to the Earl of
Harewood, Harewood Place, Leeds, being second, and Mr. Hunter,
gardener to the Earl of Durham, Lambton Castle, a good third, Mr.
Waldie was first with six Cabbages, and Mr, Thomson second. The
competition was very keen, there being eighteen exhibits staged. For a
brace of Cucumbers Mr. Waldie was again first, the second prize going
to Mr. P. Mains, Polmont. Mr. J. A, Murie, Craigmillar Gardens, ISdin-
burgh, was a good first for six Savoys, Mr. Goodfellow, gardener to
E. A. Gray, Esq., being a close second.

Mr. Ramage, gardener to J. C. Hope Vere, Esq., Blackwood House,
Lanarkshire, was first for twelve Onions, Mr. McKelvie, gardener to
the Duchess of Roxburgh, Broxmouth Park, Dunbar, being a very close
second. There were twelve dishes staged in this class, magnificent pro¬
duce being displayed in each case. Mr. Goiirlay, gardener to G. Cald¬
well, Esq., Loanhead, was first for four Beets, and Mr. G. McKenna
second. For a collection of six dishes of Potatoes Mr. J. Gentleman,
Armadale, was first with Reading Russet, Jeanie Deans, Up To Date,
Colossal, Fairlie Castle, and Abundance ; Mr. J. Riddell, Chapelton,
being a good second, Mr. J. Gemmell, Flakefield, Chapelton, was first
for twelve dishes of Potatoes, staging Fair Maid, Post Master, Triumph,
The Foreman, The Herd Laddie, Miller’s Bountiful, Sutton’s Matchless,
Windsor Castle, Reading Russet, Pink Perfection, and Abundance. Mr.
Wilson, gardener to R. B. Archibald, Esq., Tillicoultry, was second, and
Mrs. Ormiston, gardener to G. Pott, Esq , third. For six Turnips Mr.
Anthony was first, and Mr. Ormiston second. Mr. R. Moffat, Melrose,
was first In the class for six Parsnips, Mr. Logan, Coldstream, being a
very good second. Mr. Logan staged six heads of Celery, and was
deservedly accorded the first prize, Mr. Waldie being a very close

second. The Brussels Sprouts staged by Mr. Murie, for which he was
awarded the first prize, were highly creditable, as also were those of Mr.
Brown, who took the second place. Mr. Abbott was first for six Lettuces,
and Mr. Lunt second.

Miscellaneous Exhibits.

Many of the leading Scotch nurserymen staged exhibits which
altogether formed a great attraction to the Show. Messrs. Thos. Methven
and Son, 15, Princess Street, Edinburgh, arranged a macnificent table
of plants, consisting of Lilium speciosum. Crotons, Caladiums, and
Draceenas, all of which were in excellent condition. A table of Begonias,
also staged by Messrs. Methven, was one of the brightest ornaments in
the Exhibition. Another very fine stand was that of Mr. M. Cuthbertson,
nurseryman, Rothesay. Some grand Onions were shown, and the
Cuthbertson’s New Hybrid Leek were by far the best in the Show.
The floral part of this exhibit was composed of very fine Marigolds,
Gaillardias, Coreopsis grandiflora, perennial Phloxes, Helianthus multi-
florus maximus, and Pyrethrums. Messrs. Dobbie & Son, Rothesay,
had an exhibit, of which the Dahlias — Show, Fancy, Pompon, Cactus,
and Single — were by far the best features. Messrs. Jas. Cocker & Son,
Aberdeen, staged some very fine Mrs. John Laing Roses, and Lilium
auratum rubro-vittatum amongst other things. Mr. John Downie,
Murrayfleld, had a highly creditable and tastefully arranged table of
plants, amongst which the most prominent were Liliums, Dracrenas,
Palms, Crotons, and Begonias. Messrs. Cunningham & Fraser, Edin¬
burgh, had two tables of plants, one comprised of hardy plants, and the
other of stove and greenhouse plants in variety. Some handsome Hollies
were also staged by the same firm.

Ferns were staged by Messrs. Birkenhead, Sale, Manchester, in fine
condition. Conspicuous amongst them were Athyrium f.-f. concavum,
Adiantum tinctum, A. peruvianum, A. speciosum, Gymnogramma
Pearcei robusta, and Asplenium australasicum. Messrs. J. Dickson and
Co., Edinburgh, arranged a striking collection of flowers and fruit, in
which Violas, Chrysanthemums, Asters, Liliums, Apples, and Pears were
the best. Messrs. Alex. Kerr & Son, Roxburgh, showed some grand
Cockscombs, and Mr. John Forbes, Hawick, some Carnations, Pentste-
mons, Stocks, and Phloxes, which were very beautiful. Mr. M. Campbell,
High Blantyre, staged Carnations, Dahlias, Michaelmas Daisies, and
Pansies, amongst which the Show Dahlias were perhaps the best. Mr.
Alexander Lisier, Rothesay, showed Pansies in grand condition, good
French Marigolds, Dahlias, and Anemone japonica alba. Messrs. R. B.
Laird & Son’s stand of Dahlias, tastefully arranged with Asparagus
plumosus, was one of the most charming in the Show. Messrs. Alex.
Cross & Son, 19, Hope Street, Glasgow, arranged a stand of their
fertiliser, one, it may be added, of much merit. They also showed a
new sprayer they are now offering, which appears to be one of the most
simple and at the same time most effective machines for this purpose
which has ever been before the public.

BANBURY ONION AND VEGETABLE SHOW.

Banbury has long been celebrated for its magnificent Onion compe¬
titions, but the display of Thursday, Sept, llth, eclipsed all previous
shows of Onions held at that place, or probably elsewhere. This is not
to be wondered at when such redoubtable champions as Messrs. Wilkins,
Pope, Waite, Kneller, Lye, Doherty, and Pease marshalled their fullest
strength in the struggle for supremacy and the extremely liberal prizes
offered.

The present series of shows was instituted by the late Mr. Henry
Deverill with a view to encourage the better cultivation of this most
wholesome esculent. But, alas 1 the originator was not spared to see
this most interesting Exhibition and the immense results of his enter¬
prising handiwork, and many were the sympathetic regrets expressed
by those present on the occasion. Fortunately, the institution is not
likely to suffer, for the enthusiasm is still continued by the widow,
Mrs. Deverill, and her enterprising manager, Mr. Crews. The com¬
petition was large and very severe, but Mr, Wilkins, gardener to
Lady Theodore Guest, Inwood House, proved invincible in the principal
Onion classes, although he had to lower his flag to Mr. Pope, gardener
to Earl Carnarvon, Highclere, in the class for eight distinct kinds of
vegetables.

In class 1, a gold medal or timepiece was offered for the largest and
handsomest specimen of any one kind of DeverilTs Pedigree Onions,
and here Mr. Wilkins staged six bulbs of Lord Keeper, perfect in shape
and quality, whic'a turned the scale at 15 lbs. Mr. Lye, gardener to
W. A. Kingsmill, Esq., Sydmonton Court, closely followed with six
splendid biilbs of Ailsa Craig weighing 1.3| lbs.

Class 2 was for twelve specimens of pedigree Onions, and here again
Mr. Wilkins was successful with Ailsa Craig, scaling 2G| lbs. Mr. Pope
was second with the same variety weighing 22 lbs. ; third, Mr. Kneller.
Sixteen competitors, all showing well.

Class 3, for twelve specimens, enumerated kinds, Mr. Wilkins leading
with Anglo-Spanish weighing 201 lbs., perfect in every respect. Second,
Mr. Waite, gardener to Colonel Talbot, Glenhurst, same kind, weighing
18^ lbs. Third, Mr, Pope, with Royal Jubilee weighing 18| lbs.
Thirteen competitors, and the competition very close.

Class 4 was for twelve specimens of that splendid keeping Onion,
Improved Wroxtor, Mr. Kneller having the best, weighing 14| lbs.,
followed by Mr. Wilkins, whose bulbs were slightly heavier (_15 lbs.),
but less perfect in finish. Third, Mr. Pease.

Class 5, was for twenty specimens of any kind, open only to cottagers,

276

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 21, 1895.

mechanics, and allotment holder*. Weight of bulbs 30J lbs., 30| lbs.,
and 29 lbs.

Class 7. — Eight distinct kinds of vegetables. First, Mr. Pope, with
a faultless collection, containing grand samples of Exhibition Carrots,
Lyon Leeks, Glenhurst Favourite Tomatoes, Middleton Park Beet,
Aylesbury Prize Celery, Autumn Giant Cauliflower, Ailsa Craig Onions,
and Satisfaction Potatoes. The second prize went to Mr. Wilkins, who
had similar kinds, but a few points short. Mr. Waite was a close third.
There were five competitors, all good. — W. Ckump.

MANCHESTER. — September 15th and 16th.

In the Gardens at Old Trafford the Royal Botanical and Horticul¬
tural Society of Manchester held a very fine Exhibition of fruit and
other produce on the above dates. The beautiful gardens, containing so
many well grown plants, all showing the touch of a master hand, add
greatly to the interest of the meeting, which, combined with fine
weather, excellent music, and easy access to the public, caused a crowded
attendance.

For twelve dishes of fruit the Earl of Harrington, Elvaston Castle,
Derby (gardener, Mr. Goodacre), was first with fine Muscat of Alexan¬
dria, Black Alicante, and Gros Guillaume Grapes, a beautiful Countess
Melon, very fine Sea Eagle and Golden Eagle Peaches, two good Pines,
well coloured Nectarines, Louise Bonne de Jersey Pears, Cox’s Orange
Apples, and fine Figs and Plums. Sir J. M. Pease, Hutton Hall (gardener,
Mr. Mclndoe), was second with a fine collection. Unfortunately, some
of his Grapes were rubbed in transit. The Duke of Newcastle (gardener,
Mr. Slade), was third. For twelve bunches of Grapes, in not less than
three varieties, two gold and one silver medal were offered, causing keen
competition. E. M. Mundy, Esq., Shipley Hall, Derby, was first with
a fine heavy Gros Guillaume, Muscat of Alexandria, and Gros Colman,
all showing skilful treatment and good finish. The Earl of Harrington
was second with a little smaller examples of high merit, having Gros
Maroc, Alnwick Seedling, and Madresfield Court, in addition to the
varieties staged in the first prize collection. The Duke of Newcastle
was third with good heavy bunches. For six bunches of white Grapes
E. M, Mundy, Esq., was an easy first with large, well coloured bunches
of Muscat of Alexandria. Second, the Earl of Harrington with excel¬
lent Bowood Muscats, Muscat of Alexandria, and Mrs. Pearson. The
prizes in this class were given by Mr. W. Innes of Derby. For four
bunches of black Grapes Mr. W. Innes, Derby, was first with enormous
clusters of Gros Guillaume, which had suffered somewhat in travelling.
C. Lee Campbell, Esq., Glewston Court (gardener, Mr. S. T. Wright),
was second with Black Alicante, firm in bunch and in perfect condition.
The Earl of Harrington was third.

With eight dishes of Apples the Earl of Harrington was first, showing
large, highly coloured fruit of Loddington, Flower of Kent, Gloria
Mundi, Peasgood’s Nonesuch, Ribston Pippin, Adams’ Pearmain, Fearn’s
Pippin, and Cox’s Orange Pippin. Sir J. M. Pease was second
with fruit grown under glass. Mrs. Barlow was third, A special prize
was awarded to C, Lee Campbell, Esq., whose dessert Apples were very
fine indeed. For eight dishes of Pears the Earl of Harrington was first
with large fruits of Pitmaston Duchess, Catillac, Doyennd du Comice,
Duchesse d’AngoulSme, Beacon, Beurr4 Diel, Williams’ Bon Chretien, and
Louise Bonne de Jersey, Sir J. M. Pease was second, and Mrs, Barlow
third. With twelve Tomatoes Mr. James Mason, Victoria Street,
Manchester, took leading honours, followed by J. Grant Morris, Esq.,
Allerton Priory, and Mrs. Lord, Oakleigh, Ashton-on-Mersey. In the
Apple and Pear classes open to residents within twenty miles of
Manchester, the competition was good, and the fruit fine for the
district ; the most successful exhibitors being J. Watts, Esq., R. R. Gills,
Esq., J. J. Travis, Esq., A. Hornby Lewis, Esq., and the Earl of
Ellesmere.

Messrs. J. Peed & Sons, Norwood, staged about 120 dishes of Apples
and Pears, also a collection of Grapes, altogether a fine collection, which
deserved the gold medal awarded. Special prizes were awarded as
follows : — To the Duke of Newcastle for six grand Pines ; to Mrs.
Barlow for 100 dishes of Apples, Pears, and Crabs ; to Messrs, Keynes
and Williams, Salisbury, for a most imposing and beautiful display of
Dahlias, arranged in a charming manner ; and to Messrs. Harkness and
Sons for a magnificent collection of hardy cut flowers in over eighty
varieties. Mr. H. Merryweather, Southwell, Notts, also had a special
prize awarded for thirty-seven dishes of Bramley’s Seedling Apple, very
fine. Other non-competing exhibits were staged by Messrs, Dickson
and Robinson, Old Mill Gate, Manchester, who put up fine Roses
and Gladiolus ; Messrs. Dickson, Brown, & Tait staged good Dahlias and
Gladiolus ; Messrs. Caldwell & Son, Knutsford, had Apples and
Dahlias ; and Miss Hopkins, Mere Cottage, Knutsford, hardy flowers
and Pansies.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Fred Horsman & Co., Colchester. — Orchid Specialities.

G, Mount, Canterbury. — Roses.

McRonald, Chichester. — Dutch Bulbs and Flower Roots.

VanZ inten&Nieuwerf.Boskoop, Holland, and Tottenham, N. — Plants
for Pottinq and Forcing.

T. S, Ware, Hale Farm Nurseries, Tottenham. — Carnations and
Picotees and Axitumn Bulb Guides,

Dicksons, Limited, The Nurseries, Chester. — Select Roses.

WOKK.F0R.THEWEEK,.

FRUIT FORCING.

Flg^s, — Early -forced Trees in Pots. — As it is not advisable to increase
the pot room, a few inches of soil may he removed from the base of each
ball, cutting back the roots, also reduce the ball a little at the side so as
to provide room for fresh compost, and remove the loose surface soil,
cutting off any strong straggling roots. The drainage must be thorough,
using a compost of fibrous loam three parts, decayel manure one part, and
old mortar rubbish pounded one part, thoroughly incorporated and had
under cover a few weeks previous to potting (if necessary) to become
moderately dry. Make the whole very firm. Afford a good watering, and
place the trees where they can have plenty of air with shelter from
heavy rains and snow. This is only available for trees that are not in
large pots or have the roots mainly restricted to the pots, as those that
are in 18-inch pots and have been stood on brick pedestals to prevent
their sinking with the fermenting material, require different treatment.
In their case every particle of the old Oak or Beech leaves should be
removed from the bed, and the surface dressings also be picked from
amongst the roots with a handfork, shortening the strongest roots.
The drainage being attended to the trees are to be placed in position on
the loose brick pedestals, and the soil surface-dressed with the compost
named firmly rammed into the pot. Supply water to settle the soil, and
after this keep the house cool, dry, and well ventilated until the time of
starting in November or early December. This method is preferable to
repotting annually, as the trees are less likely to cast their first crop
of fruit, which is the most important, and it is not advisable to disturb
trees in 18 or 20-inch pots at the roots more than can be helped. Trees
that are not in as large pots as desired, or when it is thought desirable
to increase the root space, a liberal shift may be given, the sides of the
ball being loosened with a handfork, and any straggling roots cut back,
also the matted roots in the drainage. Provide good drainage, using the
same kind of compost for potting as previously advised, and ram it as
hard as the ball, this having been moistened previously, but the soil used
in potting must be rather dry.

Succession Houses.— The trees now ripening the second crop Figs
must be gradually kept drier as the days shorten, a little fire heat being
necessary in dull weather to admit a free circulation of air and prevent
damp, for moisture settling on the fruit causes it to fall an easy prey to
fungi, which compass its decay. Particular attention must be given to
the exposure of the wood to the full influence of sun and air, removing
all useless growth, thinning where the shoots are too close, and allow
the points to stand well up or out to the glass. As already mentioned,
the supplies of water must be diminished, but not so as to cause the
foliage to become limp, and it may be withheld from borders that have
been well watered and mulched up to the middle of this month. The
main point is to get the wood well ripened, especially at the points of
the shoots.

Lifting Over-luxuriant Fig Trees. — When in rich borders and the
rootage deep and extensive. Fig trees are apt to become too strong for
fruit bearing, and in that case preparation should be made for lifting
them as soon as the leaves turn yellow. If the trees are fruitless a
trench should be taken out about one-third the distance from the stem
the branches extend, cutting off all the roots. This will check the
tendency to late growth and concentrate the forces on the ripening of
the wood. In other cases the trees should be attended to as soon as the
crop is gathered, lifting them with care, cutting back all long roots,
reserving the fibres only. Good drainage with a drain to carry off
superfluous water is necessary. A 3-inch drain with proper fall and
outlet will do the last, and a foot thickness of brickbats with a 3-inch
layer of old mortar rubbish over will provide the first. A border of 4 to
6 feet width is much better than a wide one, and 18 inches to 2 feet
depth of soil ample. What is wanted is firm, sweet, calcareous soil that
will admit of the percolation of water and air through and retain the
manurial elements essential to the production of fine fruit. Good turfy
loam four parts, and one part each old mortar rubbish and road scrap¬
ings forms a suitable and durable border, incorporating well. Place the
compost together firmly so as to insure a sturdy short-jointed growth.
Spread out the tree roots evenly, work in the soil amongst them, and
make it firm, placing them in layers as they rise, and keeping them well
up. not covering the topmost more than 2 or 3 inches. The soil must be
moist when used, but it ought not to be wet. Give a moderate watering,,
and keep cool and dry.

Peaches and Tfectarlnes. — Trees Rijoening the Fruit in Judy. —
Tie trees will now be approaching the resting period, indicated by some
of the leaves falling. They should be kept somewhat drier at the roots,,
but if the lights have been removed the trees will not take any harm,
but be benefited by the thorough moistening of the soil, as they will
have a correspondingly cool atmosphere and not be excited by fits and
starts as in houses that are made receptacles for plants. If the trees,
however, are very strong, it is not wise to remove the roof lights, and if
the wood does not ripen well a trench may be made at a distance of
about one-third the height of the tree from the stem, and detach all
roots down to the drainage, leaving the trench open for a fortnight,.

Septemb r 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

277

^vhen it may be filled again and made firm. This will cause the wood
to harden, and the sap will be concentrated on the buds and help to
plump them. Young trees only will require this ; but older trees that
have the wood very strong should be root-pruned, and have the roots
wholly or partially lifted before the leaves have all fallen. In the case
of weakly trees remove the old soil from over and amongst the roots,
supplying fresh, rather strong calcareous loam, making it firm, following
with a good soaking of liquid manure.

Trees Ripening the Fruit in August and Early Septeinber. — Cut out
the wood that has borne fruit, leaving no more successional shoots than
are necessary for next year’s crop and that can be fully exposed to light.
Cleanse the foliage of dust and red spider by water directed with force
from a garden engine or syringe, and repeat occasionally. If there is
scale promptly apply an insecticide, petroleum emulsion being one of
the most effective, also against red spider, a soapy solution destroying it,
and for brown aphis use tobacco powder or juice. There must not be any
lack of moisture at the roots, therefore apply water to the inside borders
as necessary to keep them from becoming too dry. Afford abundant
ventilation, and if the wood is not ripening well keep the house rather
warm by day, and throw the ventilators open at night, but a warm,
close, moist atmosphere must be avoided, as that would be injurious
than otherwise.

Rate Trees. — As the fiuit is cleared from the trees the shoots that
have borne fruit should be cut to a successional one at the base, and
where the growths are too crowded they must be thinned. This with
free ventilation and gentle fire heat in cold localities during dull weather,
and with the growth strong will assist in ripening the wood. This is of
primary importance as regards next year’s crop. The trees must not
lack moisture, and yet a drier condition is advisable whilst the fruit is
ripening. Some s fft netting suspended beneath the trees will be useful
to save any fallen fruit, but it must be looped up in small pockets to
prevent the fruit bruising each other. With an examination of the
fruit in the morning and late afternoon there is no necessity for the netting.
The fruit is better gathered before becoming dead ripe, yet not before it
parts readily from the branch, and kept in a cool, light, airy fruit room
until required.

Melons. — While the fruits are swelling water must be supplied*
keeping the soil healthfully moist, and feeding with tepid liquid manure.
A moderate moisture also must be maintained by damping in the
morning and in the afternoon, and at closing time a light syringing
of the foliage may be practised if the weather be bright. Remove all
superfluous growths as they appear, and admit air early or at 75°,
keeping the bottom heat steady at about 80°. Maintain a night tempera¬
ture of 65° to 70°, 70° to 75° by day, and 80° to 90° with sun heat, closing
sufficiently early to increase to 95° or more.

A little fire heat so as to insure a circulation of air constantly and
prevent the deposition of moisture on the fruit, and no more water at
the roots than is necessary to prevent flagging, will accelerate the
ripening and do much to improve the flavour. In manure-heated pits
and frames no water will be required where the soil has been kept
properly moist during the swelling of the fruit, but keep the sides well
lined, and leave a little air on at the back at night. The fruit should
be raised well above the surface of the bed. Any fruit wished to be
kept for a time should be cut with a portion of stem when it gives
indications of ripening, placing in a dry airy room ; if wanted ripe place
in a warm house in the full sun, where it will ripen better than in cool
frames.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

Open-air Musbroom Beds. — This has been a rather trying season
for early formed Mushroom beds, and unless there is sufficient moisture
in the manure to insure its steady decay there is no heat to promote the
rapid spread of the spawn or to hasten the growth of Mushrooms. Any
beds spawned early in August ought now to be examined. If there are
no signs of Mushrooms, the manure also being found very dry below the
surface, then the attempt should be made to moisten it by either ex¬
posing to a soaking rain or else form holes all over the bed, and then
give two or three waterings with a rose on the pot, using tepid water.
This must not be overdone, though judging from the present state of
the beds there is little likelihood of saturation taking place. After the
beds have been moistened cover heavily with strawy litter. Those found
to be in a fairly moist state when first examined need not be watered.
Mushrooms ought to be forthcoming in from five weeks to six weeks
after spawning.

Successional Beds. — Someof the most profitable beds are those that
are formed and spawned during the month of September. Open air
beds must be ridge-shaped, but may be of any length, or, say, from
6 feet upwards. The site should be well drained, somewhat sheltered,
and if it can be managed the beds ought to be formed where neither
moles nor large field mice are likely to get at them. Horse droppings
without a portion of straw, to the extent, say, of one-third of the bulk,
are unsuitable for ridge-shaped beds. The heap must be well prepared or
it will heat very violently, or so much so as to quite spoil the bed after it
is put together. About a fortnight should be taken up in preparing the
manure, the heap being turned inside out every second or at the
most third day, and watered whenever found dry. Dry manure is
worthless for making into Mushroom beds, and the watering will
in many cases be necessary according as the materials are finally
put together. Properly prepared manure must be free from rank
smells and violent heat, but still be capable of going on heating and
-decaying.

Forming- and Spawning-. — Mark or stake out the site, allowing
a width not exceeding 3 feet, and work just inside of this. Shake out the
manure so as to separate what flakes there may be and distribute it in
layers, either trampling or heavily beating down each layer with the
back of the fork. Gradually narrow the ridge till when from 30 inches
to 3 feet high, it is only 6 inches wide. Finish off neatly, and slightly
round the top. The manure must be put together so firmly as to
make it no easy matter to thrust the necessary trial stakes well into the
bed. Examine these sticks frequently. At first the heat will most
likely increase considerably, but directly it is on the decline, or as soon
as the heated part of the trial sticks can be comfortably borne in the
palm of the hand, the time has arrived for spawning.

Use fresh spawn and break the bricks up into about eight pieces.
Insert these lumps in holes formed with the hand, and not a dibble, just
below the surface, and about 8 inches apart each way, angling the
holes being advisable. The start should be made 6 inches or so from the
ground, and there will be no necessity to spawn quite up to the top of
the ridge. Make all level and firm, looseness being prejudicial to the
spread of Mushroom spawn. Continue to frequently examine the
trial sticks, and if they are found to be very hot to the hand
some of the enclosed vapour must be let out by means of a pointed iron
rod thrust down through the centre or ridge of the bed at short intervals.
This will quickly lower the temperature and save the manure from
becoming dry and musty. A little judgment must be exercised as to
when to soil over the beds. If the manure has been well prepared, the
proper time to case over is on the fourth day after spawning, but it is
better to defer this a few days longer rather than cause over-heating.
Fresh fine yellow loam suits Mushrooms well, nothing answering better
than that obtained from immediately under turf in a meadow. Failing
virgin loam use garden soil dug from between the top spit and sub¬
soil. Firmly cover the beds with a layer 2 inches thick of soil, but do
not wet and plaster it on, or cracking to a most injurious extent will
inevitably result. Protect open air beds with strawy litter, lightly at
first, and heavily, in the form of a thatch, when either heavy rains or
frosts have to be warded off.

Mushroom Beds under Cover. — Now is a good time to form
beds either in Mushroom houses proper or in cellars, sheds, or snug out¬
houses of any kind. These beds should be nearly or quite flat, a gentle
slope to the front being usually given, of any convenient width, and
from 12 inches to 15 inches in depth. They can be enclosed either by
walls or steut boards kept in position by means of strong uprights, and
preferably be formed on the floor, shelves answering better later on. In
these cases rather less short stained straw ought to be left with the
manure, though in all other respects the preparation should be the same.
This season much green food has been given to horses, but it should be
remembered that it is from horses in hard work, and fed on hay and
corn, that the droppings most suitable for making into Mushroom beds
are obtained. If there is no choice take every care with the best that
can be had. No fire heat ought to be turned on for some time to come,
the best crops very frequently being had from the beds in snug unheated
sheds and cellars. Prepare more manure for successional beds, supple¬
menting it with Oak leaves if the bulk is insufficient. Old Cucumber
and Melon beds in houses might also be spawned with every prospect of
a good crop of Mushrooms following in due course if only the top heat
is not too strong.

APIARIAN NOTES.

Home from the Moors.

After two months oE suspense and toil, with alternate disap¬
pointments and successes, we have returned from the moors. We
had a brief period of fine weather, but this was followed by
torrents of rain and a low temperature, and there were few morn¬
ings without hoarfrost. With all these drawbacks, however, I
am home with a fair yield of Heather honey, but by no means so
great as I have frequently had from the same place in as few days.
My best hive, a second cross Carniolan, weighs gross 160 lbs., having
increased in weight 70 lbs. My next best, a second cross Syrian,
weighs about the same. Both these, along with the others, lost
in weight the first month from 12 to 20 lbs., and near the end
another 10 to 12 lbs., as is always the case, so that the actual
gathering of our best hives would be 100 lbs. The average weight
made from the setting down till the lifting is about 40 lbs.

A dozen hives increased before going to the Heather to thirty-four.
Although constantly attending my bees at the Heather, six swarms
left unseen and were lost, it being impossible to detect them.
Twenty seven of the thirty -three swarms I had were all returned.
Among the rest was a Punic nucleus, the pure and cross giving
alike satisfaction, having made on the whole as much, or perhaps
more, than any other variety. They are no worse than other bees,
nor so bad as the pure Italians for stinging or robbing, but are not
entirely innocent in that respect. They are very prolific, and it is
this good quality that our modernists do not know how to put to

278

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 21, 18S3.

the best use for large yields of honey. The toil from excessive
swarming this season is due entirely to practising contrary to what
I teach, and, like many more, have suffered accordingly. Influenced
by persuasion and past bad seasons I wrought my hives with two
divisions instead of three, as I have advised sensible bee-keepers
to do.

I am perhaps prejudiced against the mild tempered pure
Carniolan free from the yellow bands, but I cannot help admiring
the beautiful whiteness of their honeycombs. I thought till early
in the summer that I possessed the original pure strain first sent me
by the late Mr. Alfred Neighbour nearly twenty years ago, but
somehow, through so much swarming and so many queens about,
every one was lost, so I have begun anew with one that I have
safely introduced lately. Having taken some trouble to obtain the
pure strain free from Italian and Syrian blood. I shall if spared till
another year take care to increase and to keep them pure, having a
good opportunity of doing so.

Elvanfoot has about fifty inhabitants, snl it is becoming well
known as a healthy locality. Among the inhabitants is one who
dislikes bees and bee-keepers. He says, “ Bee-keepers bring wet
weather, and the bees take the strength out of the grass and the
Heather.” The person alluded to has for years tried to prevent
bees being set upon neighbouring farms, and this year appealed to
the factor of an adjoining estate to compel the bees to be removed.
This was, however, only partially complied with, the owners of
the bees removing them several hundred yards.

As everything by way of reading and correspondence are in
arrears, I will in the next issue answer several queries, and com¬
mence a series of practical articles for beginners and the inex¬
perienced. I have omitted to say that my best hive mentioned
above is an old stock that swarmed in June, the prime swarm from
it being nearly as heavy, and gave a surplus of honey early in the
season. Your readers can now judge of the reliability, or unre-
liabilty, of the saying, “ When hives swarm there is an end to
honey gathering.” In my future articles I will give full instructions
how to be as successful as — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

GABDENERS' CHARITABLE AND PROVIDENT
INSTITUTIONS.

The Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Institution. — Secretary,
Mr. G. J. Ingram, 60, Parliament Street, London, W.C.

United Horticultural Benefit and Provident Society. —
Secretary, Mr. W. Collins, 9, Martindale Road, Balham, London, S.W.

royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. — Secretary, Mr. A. F. Barron,
Royal Horticultural Society’s Gardens, Chiswick, London, W.

•,*A11 correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor ” or to “ The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Cow and Pig: IVIanure Water for Cbrysanthemums {MacLeod').
— There is no safer liquid stimulant than that made from cow manure
provided it is scalded with boiling water so as to destroy destructive
larvae before adding the water — say twenty gallons to one peck of the
manure, stirring well and leaving a day or two. If you mean the
drainings from the cow house it is an excellent manure, and should be
diluted with about a fourth of water when neat ; if from the manure as
well it should be diluted to the colour of mild beer. Piggery drainings
are much more powerful than either stable or cow house drainings, and
could only be safe when diluted with ten times the bulk of water.
Nitrate of soda may be used occasionally, but not too often, at the rate
of a ^ oz. per gallon of water.

Fliygrellus capensls {L., Dundee). — You ask whether thisis a shrubby
or herbaceous plant. According to the “ Botanical Magazine” it is both.
The description in connection with a beautiful coloured illustration,
tab. 4881, vol. xi., third series, states the plant is “ shrubby below and
herbaceous above.” That is its general character. In the south the
lower part assumes a shrubby habit and retains it through the winter,
the Pentstemon-like stems of scarlet flowers dying and cut back to
the sound parts. In some colder localities we are told the plants die
down the same as Fuchsias do in the open ground and produce young
growths from the rootstock annually. Only in such instance8_could
the plant be popularly described as herbaceous.

Storing Fruit {F. J.). — There is nothing better than clean white
paper for the fruit to rest on, though it is not necessary unless the wood
is likely to taint the fruit. Cocoa-nut fibre would certainly form a
better “bed” for the fruit ; but choice fruit should have as much of
its surface exposed as possible, so that it might ripen equally in every
part. As this process begins at the eye, that part is generally placed
downwards, in some cases embedded in sand or other material to secure
equal ripeness all over. To insure the fruit keeping sound as long as
possible it is often packed in material calculated to exclude air, and
maintain a uniform temperature without tainting the fruit. Peat moss
litter has been used for storing Apples in with complete success, and the
fruit was not in the least tainted. The same variety kept longer in it
than by any other method, and fetched more money. The moss litter
was of course sweet. The very soft wood wool referred to on page 220,
September 7th, is excellent as a packing for fruit.

Bones and Balnlt for Fruit Trees {T, IF. F.). — If it is desired
to get as much value out of the bones as possible the first year, they
should be dissolved — that is, made into superphosphate. Steamed bone
meal is a little more durable, but by no means to be considered a
permanent improvement. Crushed bones have value extending over
several years, and ought not to be used where the trees are in immediate
want of support, it being better to employ bone superphosphate, so as to
secure the best results in the summer following its application. The
superphosphate and kainit should be in a mixture of equal proportions,
and spread over the ground under the branches of the bushes or trees
and for a foot beyond in the autumn, at the rate of 2 ozs. per square yard,
or 3f lbs. per rod (30J square yards). The ground may then be lightly
pointed over, but not injuring the roots, and left until the spring. If
a full crop of fruit needs support give a supplementary dressing of
powdered nitrate of soda — say Ij lb. per rod, a little more if the soil
is of a dry nature, or a little less if the ground be damp.

Pear Tree Blister lUoth {G. T. Dd). — The moth is minute
and active, body satiny white, the wings having an orange ground
spotted with black and other colours. It appears in May, and after
pairing the female deposits her eggs at the end of that month or
beginning of June, or later, in the tissue of the leaves on the upper
surface, and from these issue the grubs or caterpillars, which feed
beneath the epidermis, and produce dark brown blisters, corresponding
to the spread of the caterpillar. Sometimes the blisters run together.
When the caterpillar is full fed, which usually takes place in August or
September, it ea<s its way out, and entering a crevice in the bark or a
wall, where it will be snug and dry, it spins a white silken cocoon,
very beautiful, and becomes a chrysalis inside, being quite small in
itself, but easily recognisable by the silvery coating. From this it
appears as the moth at the time before named. Those at the back of
the old plaster are the cocoons — some empty, others contain chrysalids.
The description to which you allude is not accurate as regards this
country, but it is strictly so in respect of warmer and drier climes.

Housing: Chrysantbemums {A. Pitman). — Mr. Molyneux’s
references on page 73 of his work, which you have found so useful,
apply to late varieties generally as the first to be placed under glass
with the object of advancing the blooms so that they may be ready
for cutting at the same time as the earlier varieties, the plants of
which are housed later. There are only about two in your list that can
be called late or slow in opening. Hero of Stoke Newington and
Barbara. Endeavours to have all the varieties in condition at the same
time are only as a rule resorted to by exhibitors, and growers of Chrys¬
anthemums for house decoration find a prolonged display the most
satisfactory, therefore they prefer to allow the different varieties to
open at their natural time. Judging from the names in your list you
do not intend the blooms for exhibition, and therefore you will not err
by housing all the plants at the end of the present month, sooner if the
nights are clear and frost appears imminent, though if you wish to
advance any particular varieties place the plants under glass at once.
Some of the names in your list are not to be found in the National
Chrysanthemum Society’s catalogue, and others are misspelt. Chrys¬
anthemums are often injured by a keen frost at the end of Septem¬
ber or early in October, mild weather supervening, and growers should
be on the alert accordingly.

Odontog:lossums Planted Out — Orcbids from Seed {J. Wilson).
— Odontoglossums are planted in thousands by Mr, F. Sander, in his
establishment at St. Albans. A layer of open material, consisting of
sphagnum, fibrous turf and charcoal, is spread over ample drainage on
side stages, and the plants established in it. Under the skilful treat¬
ment to which they are subjected they grow as well as plants can grow,
and lift well for establishing in pots. The thickness of the compost
varies according to the size of the plants, but the same depth as that

September 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

279

usually found in pots for different sized plants is a safe rule of guidance.
Planting ont is a labour-saving process in watering — a point of greater
importance in extensive trade collections than in private establishments.
The atmospheric conditions of the houses are specially appropriate for
the well-being of the plants. The best way of raising Orchids from seed
is to sow all that is found in the pods as resulting from careful fertilisa¬
tion. To attempt to separate the weak from the strong grains, as
revealed by a powerful magnifying glass, would be somewhat too
tedious. The seed is cast on the sphagnum round established plants,
and if good, and the essential conditions of moisture and temperature
maintained, germination follows in due course. The most careful
skilled attention is needed, transplanting and establishing the seedlings
being an extremely delicate process. The plants flower in from ten to
fifteen years after sowing the seed, the majority b ing no better than
the parents, perhaps worse. Raising Orchids from seed reminds us
of digging for diamonds — an enormous amount of rubbish has to be
removed, but now and then a gem of the first water is found, the lucky
owner rejoicing accordingly in the reward for his enterprize and perse¬
verance ; but many diamond searchers are not lucky, and it is the same
with Orchid raisers, and experts have the best chances of success.

Slrex glgas (J. Young Eutomol^gut). — The Sirex gigas is found
in the north of Europe ; it has been taken in England, but very rarely ;
it is a British species, and is sometimes taken in Scotland. It is likely
to be met with in Pine forests, as the female seems to prefer that wood
to deposit her eggs in. The male is considerably smaller than the female,
and has no sting. The sting of the female consists of three parts — a
sheath which divides into two parts or valves, and a fine instrument
somewhat resembling a needle ; it is with this instrument it wounds its
enemies, and the sting is said to cause excruciating pain. The microscope
discovers this part to be beset with a number of very minute teeth, like the
edge of a saw ; with this sdng the creature can pierce the wood of sound
trees ; for we suspect it does not always deposit its eggs in such as are
decayed, but rather in such as will supply the larva with nourishment
when it is hatched. The eggs are laid in clusters of 200 or 300 together;
they are of a pale yellow colour, about the thirtieth part of an inch
in length, and shaped like a weaver’s shuttle. The larva lives in the
body of the tree, enlarging its habitation as it increases in size, for it
never leaves the tree till it becomes a winged creature. The larva when
full grown is about inch in length, and as thick as a goose quill. It
is a heavy sluggish creature, almost cylindrical, the head very small, and
the whole of an uniform pellucid yellowish colour. It has a small spine
at the end of the body like those by which the larva of some spinges are
distinguished ; this spine is also a striking character in the perfect
Sirex. In the pupa the form of the winged creature is more visible
than in the larva state ; it is of a browner colour than the larva, and the
rudiment of the sting and legs are very visible.

XTamlngr Fruits — A Roundabout Procedure. — A correspon¬
dent informs us that he usually sends his Pear problems to a friend, and
if neither he nor his man can name the fruit, it is at once sent by the
friend to this office. Our correspondent further states that he does not
wish to trouble his friend at present, so sends fruit direct to us, with a
request that we send the names by post. This is an improvement on
the roundabout way, but we only name fruit through these columns for
the convenience of regular subscribers, who are the growers of such
fruit, and not collectors of specimens from non-subscribers. This latter
procedure is wholly irregular, and we trust that none of our readers will
allow themselves to be made the mediums in infringing our rules.

Thames of Fruits. — Notice. — Special attention is directed to the
following decision, the object of which is to discourage the growth of
inferior and promote the culture of superior varieties. In consequence
of the large number of worthless Apples and Pears sent to this office to
be named., it has been decided to name only specimens and varieties of
approved merit, and to reject the inferior, which are not worth sending
or growing. The names and addresses of senders of fruit to be named
must in all cases be enclosed with the specimens, whether letters
referring to the fruit are sent by post or not. The names are not
necessarily required for publication, initials sufficing for that. Only six
specimens can be named at once, and any beyond that number cannot
be preserved. They should he sent on the first indication of change
towards ripening . Dessert Pears cannot he named in a hard green
state. (_E. M.') — The clustered fruits are varieties of the Siberian
Crab, the smaller form with narrow leaves being Pyrus Malus
prunifolia, and the other P. M. baccata. You are probably right in the
names of the Apples. (./. C. M!). — We cannot name the Apples. The
larger ones are essentially faulty, and the others not worthy of names
or cultivation. {J. E!). — 1, Probably Golden Reinette, but not
sufficiently matured for positive identification ; 2, Dr. Harvey. The

Pears were unripe and in a condition which rendered naming them an
impossibility. (Z). 3/.). — 1, Souvenir du Congres ; 2. Williams’ Bon
ChrStien ; 3, Immature ; 4, Probably Beurrd de Capiaumont, and
certainly not Van Mons Ebon Leclerc. The Apple is Five-crowned
Pippin. (/Z. T. //.). — 1 and 5, Gathered before ready, consequently
unrecognisable ; 2, Mbre de Mbnage ; 3, Wyken Pippin ; 4, Small fruit
of Lane’s Prince Albert. (^B. IF.). — 12, Cobbam, a good Apple ; 14,
Dumelow’s Crab. The others cannot be named ; they are probably
local kinds, and we do not wish to see any more of them. The
Crab was quite rotten. If your object is to grow fruit for sale
increase the varieties which thrive best in your soil, whether
you can get the names or not. We should be sorry to purchase
trees of such varieties. {T, S.j. — 1, Probably Beurr6 Superfin,

but the stalk end containing the most characteristic feature of the
variety was quite rotten; 2, Beurib d’Amanlis. (6*. J.'). — 1, Cox’s
Pomona; 2, Kirke’s Fame; 3, Northern Greening; 4, Nonesuch; 5,
Sturmer Pippin ; 6, probably a small fruit of Court Pendfi Plat.
(/Z. C.'). — 1, Bergamotte Dussart, a Belgian Pear; 2, Duchesse
d’Augouleme ; 3, Summer Thorn. (jF. B ). — 1, 2, and 5, not known, no
stalks to assist in the identification of the fruits; 3, M^re de Mbnage ;
4, Cellini; 6, probably Loddington Seedling, but no stalk. (Ji E, S.'),
— 1, Cellini. The others cannot be named, not being well grown
specimens, and all of them have been dragged from the trees too soon.
(tZ. G. P.'). — Winter Hawthornden. (ZZ. //.). — Apple Ribston Pippin,
Pear Autumn Bergamot. (J. D j. — 1, Beauty of Kent ; 2, probably
local, resembles Tower of Glamis ; 3, Beauty of Hants. (^Knehha'). —
I, Hollandbury ; 2, the two specimens are very unlike, but bear a general
resemblance to Dutch Mignonne ; 3 and 4, not known, probably local.
The Pears were hard, and not ready for naming. Hard Pears. — We
have several boxes of Pears that it is quite impossible for anyone to
name with any approach to accuracy. They have been sent weeks, and
some of them months, too soon for the purpose in question.

UTames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
(ffiames Boyd'). — We regret that the plant which you have taken such
creditable pains to describe cannot be identified from the leaves, though
special endeavours have been made to determine its name. (^H. C. L.). —
Funkia grandiflora. (Zl. ilZ. B.). — Odontoglossum crispum. (ZZ J.) —
Brassia Lawrenceana. (Z?. ZZ.). — 1, Clematis coccinea ; 2, We kept the
spray of this in water to enable the buds to open which they failed to
do, without blooms it cannot be identified ; 3, Oolutea arborescens ;
4, Ceanothns azureus ; 5, An Azalea, but must have flowers ;

6, Tropaeolum speciosum. (C. E. B. B.). — Specimen insufficient, pro¬
bably Tropaeolum Ball of Fire. (ZZ. A. C.). — 1, Flowers shaken off ; most
likely Pelargonium Scarlet Unique ; 2, P. quercifolium ; 3, Helenium
pumilum.

OOVENT GARDEN MARKET. — September 20th.

Market quiet ; prices remaining the same with exception of Gobs, which are finding
their level at a slight reduction.

FRUIT.

s.

d.

s.

d.

d

s.

d.

Apples, per bushel . . . .

1

0 to 6

0

Peaches, per doz .

1

6 to 8

0

Cobs .

25

0

27

6

Plums, per half sieve

1

6

2

6

Grapes per lb .

0

6

1

6

St. Michael Pines, each . .

2

0

5

0

Lemons, case .

10

0

15

0

VEGETABLES.

s.

d.

s.

d.

9.

d.

8.

d,

Beans, Kidney, per lb. . .

0

3

to 0

4

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2

to 0

0

Beet, Red, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

5

Carrots, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

2

0

3

0

Cauliflowers, dozen .. ..

2

0

3

0

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Celery, bundle .

1

0

1

3

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

4

6

Coleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Salsafy, bundle .

1

0

1

6

Cucumbers, dozen . . . .

1

6

3

0

Scorzonera, bundle ,, ..

1

6

0

0

Endive, dozen .

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb .

0

3

0

0

Herbs, bunch . . . . . .

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel .

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch .

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

6

Lettuce, dozen .

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Mushrooms, punnet , . . .

0

9

1

0

AVERAGE

WHOLESALE

PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.

Orchid Blooms in variety.

s.

d.

S.

d

8.

d.

s.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms ..

2

0

to 4

0

Marguerites, 12 bunches . .

2

0

to 4

0

Asters (English) doz. bches.

3

0

6

0

Mignonette, 12 bunches ..

2

0

4

0

Bouvardias, bunch .. ..

0

6

1

0

Myosotis, dozen bunches . .

1

6

3

0

Carnations, 12 blooms . .

0

6

2

0

Orchids, per dozen blooms

3

0

12

6

Carnations, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

9

0

Chrysanthemums, dozen

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

bunches . .

4

0

6

0

bunches .

3

0

6

0

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis.

1

0

2

0

Primula (double), dozen

Cornflower, dozen bunches.

1

0

2

0

sprays • . . • . . . •

0

6

1

0

Bucharis, dozen .

1

6

4

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

Roses (indoor), dozen

0

6

1

6

Lilium lanoifolium, dozen

„ Red, doz. bunches . .

4

0

6

0

blooms .

1

0

3

0

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

u

Lilium longiflorum,perdoz.

3

0

6

0

„ Yellow, dozen .. ..

O

0

4

0

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

Tuberoses, 12 blooms. . ..

0

4

0

6

bunches .

4

0

6

0

PLANTS

IN POTS.

8.

d.

s.

d.

8.

d.

8.

d.

Arbor Vitie (golden) dozen

6

0 to 12

0

Ferns (smalD pf r hundred

4

0 to 6

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Ficus elastica, each . . . .

1

u

/

6

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

Foliage plants, var., each..

2

0

10

0

Asters, dozen pots . . . .

3

0

6

0

Fuchsia, per dozen ..

4

0

6

0

Balsams, per dozen . . . .

3

0

6

0

Ivy Geraniums .

4

0

6

0

Campanula, per dozen

9

0

18

0

Lilium lanoifolium per doz.

12

0

18

0

Chrysanthemums, per doz.

4

0

9

0

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen

12

0

24

0

„ large plants, each

1

0

2

0

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

6

0

4

0

Dracaena terminalis, per

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . ,

6

0

12

0

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Mignonette, per doz .

4

0

6

0

Dracaena viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Euony m us , var., dozen . .

6

0

18

0

Palms, in var.. each . . . .

1

0

15

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24

0

„ (specimens) ., ..

21

0

63

0

Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

4

0

18

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

2

0

4

0

280

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 21, 1895.

Hitherto it has been laid down by authorities that quality
in milk fluctuates 3 or 4 per cent. ; it is also admitted that the
milk of a “stale” cow is less rich by 5 per cent, than that of
a “fresh” cow — a “stale” cow meaning one that has been so
long in milk after calving that there is a falling off in both milk
yield and richness ; a “ fresh ” cow, one that has recently
calved. This has formed a basis for analyses made in the
interest of the consumer. It has been regarded as a safe guide,
a higher per centage of poverty in quality being invariably
taken to indicate just so much addedjwater. Having regard to
the simplicity of milk adulteration, and to the temptation which
a farmer struggling with adversity has to indulge in it, it is only
right that some check in the guise of a fair test should be kept
upon it. It is equally right that the producer should have fair
play, and therefore it is all important that the scrutiny should
be just and thorough.

A case recently tried in the Marylebone Police Court so
clearly points to the possibility of erroneous analyses, that it
is worthy of special notice. The report says that two sum¬
monses came before the Court, issued at the instance of the
Hamps*^ead Vestry, against a dairy farmer named Robert G.
Norman of Hill field Farm Dairy, Bushey, Herts, for sending
milk to London which on analysis was alleged to have been
adulterated by the admixture of 6 and 7 per cent, of water
respectively. The sanitary inspector took samples of the milk
on its arrival at the Kilburn Railway Station on August 11th
and 12th. Professor Stokes analysed the samples, and certified
them to contain 6 and 7 per cent, of added water. The West
London Dairy Company, to whom the milk was consigned, also
had it tested by Mr. Lloyd, the analyst who certified it to
contain as much as 9 per cent, of added water. Both certificates
were met by Mr. Norman with the plain answer that the milk
was in the same condition as taken from the cow, and luckily
for him it was arranged that Mr. Lloyd should see the cows
milked, and make an analysis of that milk. He saw the
seventeen cows milked in the middle of a field. All the milk
was put into a large churn, and he took a sample. The result
of his analysis showed 8 per cent, of added wa^er.

Mr. Lloyd said he believed the only explanation to be given
was the exceptionally hot and dry season this year, and its
effect upon the cows. The dry season had so affected the food
as to alter the composition of the milk. The poorness of the
food would affect the quality of the milk and diminish the
solids. It was not the dryness of the food eaten that changed
the quality of the milk, but the nutriment obtained out of it
by the cow. The quantity of water drank by the cow was not
important. In dismissing the summonses, Mr. Plowden, the
magistrate, said the 8ubs‘antial quesMon underlying all such
summonses was whether or not there had been fraud— that
must be proved by cogent evidence, for it was a serious matter
for an honourable and respectable man to be convicted of such
an offence. Mr. Lloyd’s analysis must be taken as a perfectly
honest one, and it showed that due allowance had not been made
for the very hot weather and dry season.

We have quoted this important case in sufficient detail to
make it quite clear, because it demanded something more than
a mere passing notice. We have long held that if some such
scheme of Government supervision of dairy farms in force in
Denmark were possible wi'h us, it would be for the mutual

benefit of producer and consumer. “ Honourable and respect¬
able ” men would then not only have the projection of a skilful
Government inspector, but they would also receive invaluable
advice and guidance in the provision of food, and the best
method of using it for the cows. To have a full flow of rich milk
we must feed aright, under a sound method of food production
as well as of its use. Had dairy farmers generally such a method
entering into the economy of farm management, they would
have come through tbe great drought with comparative ease.
There would have been little if any shortness of food supply or
deterioration of milk quality. It may seem hard — almost cruel
— to say this to men struggling with adversity ; but surely it
must be granted that he is their true friend who, knowing how
many of them might do so much better, strives to assist them
in doing it.

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

Couch fires are burning everywhere wherever we go ; they are a sign
and token of the doing of much good work, the autumn to get the land
clean. Twenty-four of them did we see in one field in Yorkshire a few
evenings ago. The following day we came upon a long line of them
on a south country farm, and it was delightful to see the men doing
their utmost to keep the fires going and to set fire to other heaps. If
ever we are to have clean land it is surely now after six months of
summer followed by another month of fine weather. Autumn tillage,
too, is being done far more generally than usual ; we were much
pleased recently to see furnace ash being carted upon a Midland farm^ to
be ploughed into the heavy land. Such signs of sound energetic action
make us hopeful for the future of farming.

The Wheat sowing is in hand, also Rye and Winter Oats. Wheat
should be sown only on deep sound loam ; it, with the other crops
mentioned, should be got in now without loss of time. Where new
layers of mixed seeds or Rye Grass are wanted, it is a good plan to sow
now soon after the Wheat is in, because a full plant seldom fails from
an autumn sowing ; but sowing with spring corn is always much more
speculative, as many a farmer has found to his cost this year. Vetches
should also be sown soon ; a second sowing early in October is also
worth while as a connecting link between the first sowing and spring
crops. Frosts in Derbyshire dales have touched some vegetation ; they
are a reminder to push on, using green Maize, holding in hand crops less
susceptible to frost. Cows will eat Maize after frost has turned the tops
of the plants brown, but it is not so nutritious then. Mention is made
of this because we have already seen sheepfolds on roots. The only
roots that should be in folds yet are early sown White Turnips ; all
other root crops should be held over for winter. Dale farmers have no
occasion for early folds, plenty of herbage have they on the pastures,
many of them have mown a fair second crop of grass for hay.

The Royal Commission on Agriculture. — The second meeting
of this body took place on Tuesday last at 23, Great George Street,
Westminster, Mr. Shaw Lefevre, M.P., presiding. The other Commis¬
sioners present were Viscount Cobham, Sir Nigel Kingscote, Mr. R.
Giffen, Mr. Everett, M.P., Captain Owen Thomas, Mr. Lambert, M.P.,
Mr. W. Long, M.P., Mr. J. Gilmour, Mr. C. Whitehead, Mr. C. N. Dalton,
and W. C. Little, with the Secretary (Mr. H. Lyon), and the Assistant
Secretaries (Mr. C. Crawford and Mr. F. Freeman Thomas). Five
Assistant Commissioners were chosen to travel, four of them in England),
one in Scotland, and gather information for the central body.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamden Square. London.
Lat.51°32'40" N. : Long. 0=^ 8' 0" W.: Altitude. Ill feet.

Date.

9 A.M.

In THE Day.

Rain.

1893.

September.

i Barometer

at 32°, and
Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

luchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday . .

10

30-010

54-9

49 2

N.E.

59-0

65-8

45-2

103-9

41-2

—

Monday . .

11

30-226

59-6

52-7

N.E.

58-1

68-0

45-4

112-1

39-8

—

Tuesday . .

12

30-329

60-2

52-9

B.

57-9

69-9

46-8

119-1

40-3

—

Wednesday

13

30-230

54-2

49-9

S.W.

57-6

71-0

42-1

U8-0

37-2

—

Thursday . .

14

30-246

65-9

60-9

N.

58-2

77-4

54-2

111-9

49-7

—

Friday . .

15

30-226

59-6

65-0

S.W.

58-7

75-9

50-2

112-3

44-8

—

Saturday . .

16

29-922

60-4

56-3

N.E.

69-1

67-6

49-2

84-4

43-1

0-164

30-170

59-3

53-8

58-4

70-8

47-6

107-4

42-3

0-164

REMARKS.

10th.— Nearly cloudless morning, overcast at times in afternoon, and fine evening.

1 1th.— Dull early, and generally overcast till 1.30 P.M. ; bright afternoon and evening.
12th. — Clear and fresh, with warm sunshine.

13th.— Sunny, but rather hazy.

14th. — Almost cloudless early and in afternoon, but a good deal of cloud in morning.
15th. — Warm, with brilliant sunshine almost throughout.

16th.— Bright early, overcast after 9 A.M. ; spots of rain in afternoon ; wet evening and
night.

A fine week with much sunshine, and rain on only one day. Temperature above tlie
average.— G. J. Symons.

September 58, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

281

TO many of the younger generation the meeting of the veterans, so
pleasantly recorded in the pages of the Journal three weeks
ago (page 236), must have been highly interesting, and if a young
man’s record of a young man’s work may be allowed to follow the
sketch of the veteran's longer experience I should like to give it. I
felt tempted to ask at first for a special gathering of younger men round
the council fire to whom to address my story, but after all it may be
gratifying to the old chiefs of the gardening tribe to hear of those
of the younger generation growing up around them who are
animated by the same ideals, and endowed with the same sterling
qualities. The time will come when the old workers must lay aside
the spade and the pen, and it can hardly be other than gratifying
to them to think that when that time comes their teaching will
live on, and be developed to the common good as others have been
before them.

High cultivation has but a vague meaning to many minds.
Mention of it is usually received in a tolerative spirit as a something
which, although devoid of practical shape, still merits respect as an
admirable abstract jrinciple. It is not looked upon as actually
implying the production of good crops of fruit on trees which
formerly yielded bad ones, or heavy crops of vegetables where the
land originally gave light and unsatisfactory returns. But it is my
present purpose to show that it has a tangible force and value, and
that far from being an abstract theory it is a principle pregnant
with practical results. It has been my good fortune to enter many
■well managed gardens this season, and the latest affords a splendid
instance of what high culture can do. It is a Sussex garden,
entered through handsome lodge gates about two miles past
Crawley on the main Brighton road. The proprietor, Philip
Saillard, Esq., is a wealthy merchant, who has made himself the
owner of a vast estate, and has devoted time, money, and intelli¬
gence to improving it. The gardens are admirably laid out, the
houses handsome and substantial, exhibiting excellence of materia^,
workmanship, and design. Indeed, the whole place is such as the
proprietor may well look upon with pride and satisfaction.

I turn now to the gardener’s part, and so get at last to my story.
The fruit at Buchan Hill, for that is the name of Mr, Saillard's
splendid place, is a great object lesson to those who are unable to
form any definite conception of the meaning of the term “ high
•ulture.” The large, walled-in kitchen garden contains a collection
of trees, which for skilful management, healthy condition, and
productiveness, are not to be excelled in any garden which I have
yet seen, and are equalled by very few. They are a remarkable
example of the results which follow an intelligent prosecution of a
few leading principles. As models of pruning and training, of
health and cleanliness, and of fruitfulness, they are equally striking,
and in whatever aspect they are considered they constitute an
eloquent testimony to the advantages of culture.

The gardener, a young man named Martin, went to the place
as foreman, and took full charge between four and five years ago.
In that time outside witnesses, well capable of judging, tell me that
he has effected an extraordinary transformation. For my own part
I can only speak of the present, not of the past. Peaches and
Nectarines on a wall facing due east are now in magnificent order,
whatever they may have been a few years ago. They are huge trees
splendidly trained, with healthy, well-developed, clean foliage, and

No, 692. — VoL. XXVII., Third Series.

have carried good crops of fruit. Walburton Admirable, Eoyal
George, Noblesse, and Dymond are four of the leading sorts. The trees
were lifted last year, and are now well furnished with bearing wood.
Lifting is the young gardener’s prescription for barrenness. He
practises it with all kinds. The labour must be great, but the results
are unmistakeahle.

A long si retch of cordons on the same wall as the Peaches have
been recently planted. The quality of the material, as well as the
nearness to Cheal’s, suggests their birthplace. The espaliers, which
run nearly all round the garden, are in first-rate order. They are
well established trees, and have filled their allotted space. Enormous
quantities of fruit are yielded by them. There is grand fruit of the
two stewers, Uvedale’s St. Germains and Catillac. Beurre
Capiaumont is heavily laden, in fact the tree is brown with fruit, and
almost the same might be said of Brown Beurre and Easter Beurrd,
while Beurre Sterckmans, Beurre Diel, Beurre Superfin, Pitmaston
Duchess, and Beurre Hardy are bearing exceptional crops. So heavy
is the burden of fruit that it is natural to express a doubt if the trees
are not overcropped. But the growth, it is observed, is of the right
sort, and by no means points to a debilitated condition. The secret
is in the condition of the roots and the soil. Lifting and re-lifting,
with the concomitant shortening of coarse “ prongs,” has resulted in
the production of a network of feeding fibres, and the medium in
which they ramify has been consistently enriched.

Even more noteworthy than the espaliers and wall trees are the
pyramids. It would be difficult to produce a more perfectly healthy
and fruitful type. Though termed pyramids, they are not so formal
as the average tree of that class, and might almost be described as
intermediate between the pure pyramid and the open bush favoured
by many cultivators. The course of training pursued has evidently
been conducted with a view to securing neatness and shapeliness
without excessive formality. The bushes are open through the thin
disposal of the main branches, which are 15 to 18 inches apart, and
they bear magnificent fruit, which is of great size, and as smooth and
clean as indoor Nectarines. The moderate extension that is permitted
affords a natural outlet for the inherent energies of the trees, and
their open character favours complete solidification and maturation.
Root management is again advanced as one of the great factors in
successful management. “ Use the knife less and the spade more ”
is this young gardener’s creed. Numbers of trees which never bore
a good crop, the roots being in an unsatisfactory state, the soil
exhausted, and the branches in a tangled mass, crossing and
re-crossing each other, so that, as my companion put it, “ you
couldn’t see half through them,” are now bearing splendid crops.
You can see all the way through them now, and a fine display of
fruit is included in the survey.

This affords one side of the practical aspect which I have claimed
for the term “ high cultivation.” In this garden, where the trees
once gave but a poor return, they now yi Id produce that would shine
prominently at any exhibition. I might pass for a moment from
the type to a variety. Some of the finest pyramids are Pitmaston
Duchess, and with these notes I hand the Editor two Pears from one
of the trees. One is a large, clean, shapely example, weighing
15 ozs. It was not selected, as there were many larger, but
taken off at random. The other is a wrinkled, distorted, worthless
fruit weighing 5 ozs. Four years ago the latter represented the
crop, for the trees bore no other, now there is only one here and
there, an ugly duckling amongst a full crop of large, handsome
specimens, such as might have come off one of Mr. Thomas s famous
Sittingbourne trees. The ugly ducklings would bo laughed oat of
the market, the normal fruits would probably bring half a crown a
dozen. There have been no my’^sterious processes brought to bear on
the trees. They are the same specimens, and occupy the same places
as when they were worthless ; cultivation alone has brought about
the change. They have been thinned, judiciously trained, root-
pruned, and liberally fed, nothing more. The plain truth is that
practical work and common sense have transformed them from

No. 2348.— VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

282

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 28, 1893.

cumbsrers of the ground and robbers of the soil into valuable and
fruitful occupants of the garden. F.

There is a fruit arch at Buchan Hill about which a few words
ought to be said. It is 17 feet high, 15 feet wide, and upwards of
300 feet long. The well known arch at the Lowfield nursery is a
babe beside this giant. It is planted with cordons on both sides, and
\*nust present a magnificent sight when the trees are in full blossom.
It is not less remarkable now, for many of the trees have met in the
•centre of the arch overhead, and are a rope — I had almost said a
•rainbow — of fruit. The trees on one side were lifted last year, and
next season probably the other side will be similarly treated.
Amongst the Pears Nouveau Poiteau, Marie Louise, Duchesse
d’Angouleme, Pitmaston Duchess, Brockworth Park, Doyenne
Boussocb, Beurre Diel, Beurre Hardy, Souvenir du Congres, and
Louise Bonne of Jersey are doing well ; amongst the Plums Green
Gage, Magnum Bonum, Peach, Jefferson, Diamond, and Victoria ;
^amongst the Apples Alexander, Blenheim Orange, Lady Henniker,
Cellini, Lord Suffidd, King of the Pippins, Cox’s Orange Pippin,
Worcester Pearmain, Peasgood’s Nonesuch, Loddington, and Lord
Derby.

This wonderful arch has been established ten years, and it is a
revelation to see what magnificent results are yielded by the cordon
system when the trees have scope for free main extension, are well
fed, and have their roots kept in good order. Every fruit grower in
'the kingdom would delight in seeing it, and indeed the whole
•garden. The kitchen garden is full of splendid pyramids, and the
walls are packed on both sides with fruitful trees. All over the
iplace, amongst the vegetable quarters, the fruit trees, and in the
.plant houses, the rule is heavy cropping and perfect cleanliness,
'llie soil is systematically stored with nutriment, weeds are kept down
and insects prevented, and the result is such full crops of splendid
produce as are rarely seen. I am told that Mr. Martin is a
tremendous worker, in the garden early and late. My own eyes
‘have told me that he is a fine cultivator. This young practitioner is a
credit to his craft, and one whom time will distinguish, unless I
am much mistaken, as one of the leading gardeners of his
time. His future, at all events, lies in his own hands. His work
is a worthy tribute from one of the younger generation to the sound
teaching of the old, and a proof that some at least of the rising
-school are prompted by high principles and energetic perseverance.
— W. P. W.

HARDY FLOWER NOTES.

Though days grow short and cool, and falling leaves from
drees and hedgerows bespeak the coming of the wintry days, when
the wind shall whistle eerily through the leafless boughs, and the
flowers which bedeck the garden be few and far between, as yet
there is no want of brightness. The Sunflowers still glow ; the
stately Gladiolus still uprears its beautiful spike among the border
flowers ; the Pyrethrum has endeavoured, though faintly, to
assume the beauty its flowers display in June; the Michaelmas
Daisies have been most beautiful, with that soft beauty which
renders these flowers so much in harmony with the sadder skies of
•these autumn days ; some of the Campanulas still display on border
or in the rock garden their spikes or sheets of cup or bell-like
form; the autumn - flowedng Chrysanthemums, which here are
treated practically as hardy herbaceous plants, adorn the borders
with their brilliant blooms of various sizes ; late-flowering Poppies,
such as the charming scarlet and black Papaver umbrosum, are
bright and attractive still, and many others lend gaiety to the
garden.

The Meadow Saffrons have well nigh passed away, leaving
joyful memories of the cups of the single or the ribbon-like petals
of the double forms. No prettier flower of its kind exists than
the double white variety of C. autumnale. Scarce it still is, but is
worthy of a place in the garden of the choicest of hardy flowers.
Their rivals, too, in the affection of the lover of bulbous plants —
the Crocuses — have come or are coming rapidly into flower. They
are doubly welcome prophet?, so to speak, as they are of the spring
when the Crocus is fully aglow with beauty, and in themselves
choice as little gems which sparkle in the fainter sunlight of
cloudier autumn. No one can see a clump of C. speciosus ex¬
panded in the sun with its blue-purple flowers so deeply feathered

without feeling delighted at the sight. Very fine, too, has been a
clump of C. pulchellus which has come to me from the Bithynian
Olympus. When they bloomed before it was on Asiatic soil, and
now in this mild corner of Scotland they are blooming again, and
one would hope may do so many years. Variable are these collected
bulbs, some flowers being darker in colour inside, some with sharper
petals, and others with deeper coloured feathering ; but all are
beautiful with their exquisite tint of blue, and when open showing
the white anthers, which are a distinct feature of this Crocus, so
worthy of the specific term “pulchellus” — beautiful. A charm¬
ing companion to this native of the neighbourhood of the Bos¬
phorus and the adjoining countries is the white C. hadriaticus, in
flower here at the same time. This beautiful little Crocus from
the Ionian Islands and Albania is quite hardy here, and its little
white flowers are most delightful either when open, displaying its
lemon-coloured anthers and scarlet stigmas, or when closed in in
cone-like form. Other Crocuses are also in flower, but must be
referred to again.

Very attractive for a long period, either on the rockeries or
forming part of rockwork edgings to other borders, has been
Linaria anticaria, a little alpine Toadflax which I have had in my
garden for a number of years. Unfortunately, like many other
Linarias, it cannot be said to be perfectly hardy, although for some
years, when I first grew it, it survived our winters. Further ex¬
perience leads me to the conclusion that it is not to be depended
upon ; but it seeds so freely here, and sows itself so readily, that
my first sowing years ago has given me a constant stock of plants.
One of the charms of this little Toadflax is its variable character
from seed. We do not admire inconstancy in people, but what is
a failing in them becomes with some flowers an additional attrac¬
tion, and this Linaria, like the allied Snapdragon, varies much in
colour. The plant forms a neat tuft of grey foliage, with little
spikes of flowers well raised above the plant. These are very
beautiful, varying much in colour and in shade, some having a
white ground with a yellow lip, and spurs faintly lined with grey,
and others of various shades of cream and of purple. L. anticaria
is more easily retained in my garden than L. alpina, which I have
had much greater difficulty in establishing.

One of the prettiest in its way of the dwarf Campanulas still
in flower has been C. soldanellse flora fl.-pl., an attractive little
flower, now I understand ranked among the forms of C. rotundi-
folia. The flowers are blue and semi-double, the latter feature not
being apparent unless on rockwork above the level of the eye or until
the pendant flower is lifted to examine the interior of the bell.
This pretty Bellflower should grow to about 1 foot in height ; but
as I prefer to keep it dwarf it is grown in a sunny position in very
dry soil, where it does not grow more than 9 inches in height.
Seed of C. soldanellseflora may be obtained, but only a proportion
can be depended upon to come true, some seedlings showing
flowers almost identical with those of C. rotundifolia, and others
having a number of narrow petals loose to the base.

A valuable plant all through the summer has been Polygonum
sphgercstachyum, the Round-spiked Knotweed, which has been
much admired by all visitors to my garden who can appreciate
hardy flowers (alas ! that such a saving clause is necessary), with
its spikes of blood-red flowers on stems growing here to about
18 inches in height. The spikes are about inch in length, and
the brilliance of the flowers renders this perhaps the most attractive
of the dwarf Knotweeds. It is growing in my garden in a low
spot at the ba^e of a rockery in free peaty soil, and having, what is
necessary for this plant, a copious supply of water. Without this
it suffers much ; its allied species P. affine or brunonis being less
particular in this respect, although the best plants I have ever seen
had a plentiful supply. P. sphmrostacbyum is a native of the
Himalayas, and although I have previously called attention to it
this further note is hardly uncalled for, as so pleasing a plant
cannot fail to give satisfaction to the grower. It is quite hardy in
this neighbourhood.

Although I have not flowered it, nor have I even a plant at
present, I may be pardoned for speaking briefly of a flower which
on its introduction we heard a great deal of, but regarding which
there is now an almost ominous silence in horticultural literature.
This is Ostrowskia magnifica, introduced from Central Asia in 1887,
and named in honour of Ostrowski, the Russian botanist. Those
who have not seen an engraving of this plant will find one in the
Journal of Horticulture, \o\. xvii., 1888, p 53. There were great
expectations regarding this Bellwort, but very few have been
successful in its cultivation, and it is as much in the hope of
receiving as of giving information that this note is penned. I have
made several inquiries of hardy plant growers who have had this
plant, and nearly all have, like the writer, lost their plants through
causes variously reported as “severe winters,” “slugs,” or more
frequently what may be called “sheer inanition,” or “ a premature
and unwelcome death.” A valuable horticultural work gives

September 28, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

288

instructions that the Ostrowskia requires the same cultivation as
the tall perennial Campanulas. Would that this would suffice.
My own experience is brief but typical. I had a plant which
survived two winters in a border of good soil which would grow any
other hardy Campanula quite well. The first summer it made a
growth of about 9 inches, the second spring it grew about 4 inches
and dwindled away. Those who are experimenting or hoping to
experiment with O. magnifica would do well to be careful to protect
the plant in early spring. Like many other Central Asian plants
it makes growth early, and its fleshy structure seems to be easily
injured by the severe frosts we often experience. I am aware that
this plant has been flowered in England, but what we would like
to know is, under what conditions ? and was it treated as a hardy
plant ?

The hope which is said to spring “eternal in the human
breast ” has induced me to hope for several years that Zauschneria
californica would flower in my garden, and with a desire to give it
every opportunity of displaying what beauties it may possess, I
removed my plant to the warmest position I could command — the
top of a rockery facing due south, and close to a stone wall which
shielded it from the north winds. Here, with a favourable season,
this Zauschneria has deigned to yield a few open flowers ; but as I
write it is showing symptoms of retiring to its annual rest without
opening many of the buds which have appeared. The few which
have opened fail to exhibit the plant in its true character, and with
great reluctance I have come to the conclusion that it must be
discarded as unsuitable for our cool climate on the Solway. A
similar tale of its behaviour has reached me from many growers,
and if it has not been satisfactory in a year like this it is only
occupying the ground, which would be better devoted to a more
accommodating plant.

Possibly the same might almost be said of Plumbago Larpentae,
which I have had for several years, but which has only flowered
this season. There is this very considerable difference, however,
that P. Larpentae has flowered very profusely, and that its deep
blue flowers are particularly pleasing, and where it is grown here,
on the top of a rockery, having a beautiful effect. I do not know
that there is anything particularly required for its successful
cultivation beyond a warm soil and situation. It is much admired,
although its blooms are not of the same beautiful sky blue as the
delightful greenhouse plant P. capensis, but are smaller and of a
deep purple blue. — S. Arnott, Dumfries.

Habenaria carnea.

The exhibits of Habenaria militaris at the Drill Hall during
the last year or two have drawn more prominent attention to this
brilliant Orchid than it had previously received. Partly, perhaps,
on that account, but largely owing to its intrinsic beauty, the new
species carnea, placed before the Orchid Committee of the R H.S.
on the occasion of the great Show at the Agricultural Hall, re¬
ceived a considerable share of notice and criticism, which, on the
whole, was of a favourable character, and a first-class certificate
was subsequently awarded to it. In general character and expres¬
sion the flower greatly resembles H. militaris, but it is larger and of
a tender rose-tinted flesh or blush colour. Considerable interest
attaches to this charming novelty, and the engraving (fig. 40) will
therefore be welcomed. This Orchid was exhibited by Messrs,
r. Sander & Co., St. Albans.

Spathoglottis Fortunei.

Several pans of this terrestrial Orchid have been a noteworthy
feature in the cool Orchid house at Kew for some time past.
Though the individual flowers may not be so fine as in some of the
other species, well flowered plants of S. Fortunei are very showy,
and supply a welcome colour at a season when the Orchid
houses are otherwise rather bare. S. Fortunei is a native of Hong
Kong, where it was discovered by Fortune, who sent home pseudo¬
bulbs, which first flowered in this country in the gardens of the
Royal Horticultural Society in 1845. The species is deciduous,
and the flat, fleshy, underground pseudo-bulbs remain dormant for
some months after the foliage has disappeared. During this
period the plants require to be kept quite dry. S. Fortunei has
a considerable resemblance to a Bletia (to which genus Spatho¬
glottis is closely allied), and succeeds well under practically the

same conditions of culture. The narrowly lanceolate plicate
leaves are pale green, and about a foot in length. The flowers are
home six to eight on a scape 12 to 18 inches high. They are
about li inch across, of a fine clear yellow. The lip is three-
lobed, and the two side lobes, which curve inwards, are blotched
with chocolate. — A. B.

Autumn Treatment of Dendrobiums.

The growths of many of these will now be completed or ap¬
proaching completion, and every opportunity should be taken of
exposing them to sun and air. Many of our Dendrobiums have for
some time been standing out of doors in the full sun, but as the
nights are getting colder they will be removed to the front stage of
a vinery, where air is constantly admitted day and night. Here
they will remain until they are wanted for flowering, as a long rest

FIG. 40.— habenaria carnea.

in a cool dry atmosphere is the only means of getting a full comple¬
ment of bloom in the spring.

There is a difference in the time taken by the various species to
produce and mature their pseudo-bulbs. Some, like D. Dal-
housianum, although started early in the season, will occasionally
be still growing at the end of October or in November ; others,
such as D. thyrsiflorum, will often make two distinct sets of
growths in a season, the time taken being usually about six weeks.
D. Wardianum requires a long season of growth, and should be
carefully watched and kept rather drier “ at the roots and in the
atmosphere when nearing completion, as it is very apt to grow
at the bottom before the new growths are matured, and may fre¬
quently he seen with young shoots 6 or 8 inches long in the middle^
of the winter. This is extremely weakening to the plants, and
should be avoided in all cases where possible. D. Cambridgeanum
and other autumn-blooming species should not be dried off too rapidly
after flowering, but the water supply ought to be reduced gradually
until the foliage withers and falls off, when it may be entirely with¬
held until the plants show signs of activity in the spring. D. for-
mosum eburneum, and all spring-flowering Dendrobiums, must be-

284

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 28, 189S.

kept fully exposed to the sun, as it loses its power, a thorough
hardening and ripening of the bulbs being most desirable.

A sharp look out must be kept for woodlice and small snails,
which do much mischief at this season by eating out the flower
buds of such plants as D, nobilis just as they are becoming visible
at the nodes. A few pieces of Potato placed on the pots and
examined every morning make good traps for the woodlice, while
hand-picking by the aid of a light in the evening will be found
the best remedy for the snails. — H. R. Richards.

OUT OF TOWN.

Country people enjoy a visit to London during the season,
and there is certainly plenty to see and hear in it, while Londoners
enjoy a run in the country. My escape from the City was during
the time of the great heat, and unfortunately there appeared to be
more flies than breezes in the country. It was a sweltering run
one evening from King’s Cross to Peterborough. A carriage
companion was going to the far north— Mr. Ross of the Scone
Fruit Preserves. He had travelled from Perthshire to Kent the
night before, and after noting that the crop of small fruit there
would by no means equal the demands of the jam makers, he was
rushing back to buy all he could, and thus literally steal a march
on the southerners, whom he knew would have to go north for
supplies. That is the way business is done in these days, and men
have to be on the alert to make a living.

The first stop was at Peterborough, convenient for a call on
Mr. Harding of Orton Hall. A great change has taken place there
since then in the death of the Dowager Marchioness of Huntly.
The deceased lady was an ardent gardener and accomplished botanist.
Not many persons had perhaps a better knowledge of British
plants, and she was ever an assiduous collector of them. Her
rockery aiforded her much solace during a lingering illness, and
gardening was one of the pleasures of her life. The Orton
Wellingtonias with trees and Conifers are splendid. Mr. Harding’s
faith in the future of Thuia gigantea as a timber tree increases
with experience. There are trees 60 to 70 feet high, and he
expects they will grow as high again. Seedlings raised by him
fifteen years ago are 30 feet high — beautiful specimens, and he
does not know of any other Conifer, except perhaps the Larch,
that would make equal progress. The timber of this Thuia is said
to be of a very durable kind. Passing from the high to the low
Mr. Harding was rejoicing over the New York Lettuce obtained
from Messrs. Veitch & Sons, as affording the best of salads in the
driest and hottest of summers. It seemed to partake of both the
Cos and Cabbage type, and was as crisp and sweet as Lettuce could
be. He says he does not know what he should have done without
it, which is a good deal for a man like him to say, for it would
take a good deal to drive him into either ecstacies or despair. He
is a believer in Asparagus, too, as a paying crop, and of growing the
plants in a single line on 2 feet wide ridges with 2 feet alleys between.
The single lines have grown into broad ones ; the ridges appear to
be full of crowns, and judging by the growth of the plants in
summer they may be expected to afford fine produce in spring.
A profit of £50 an acre is Mr. Harding’s estimate of first-class
Asparagus culture, and he speaks from experience in growing,
selling, and drawing the money — as good a test as could be desired.
Fruit crops were abundant, but a crop of cones on Picea amabilis
appeared to be as much valued as any other kind of fruit. Chacun
a son gout. I have no more to say about Orton, except to express
appreciation of everything experienced there except the flies, and to
state that Mr. Harding remains there as gardener to the Marquis of
Huntly.

The next day the train took me northward, and not till passing
Grantham, and swerving to the left, was a tinge of green to be
seen in the pastures, but the freshness deepened as we sped along,
and at Southwell all was verdant and refreshing. The entrance to
the town is through an open park-like space, partly surrounded by
lofty Elms, and beyond is the fine old Minster. It is a treey place
is Southwell, and the land around is fertile. Just outside the
town stands the pleasant home of Mr. Merryweather, and at a time
when gardens were dried out in the south the nursery seemed as
full of flowers as if drought was unknown. But we have only
time for a glance, and have to see “ Bramleys, and Roses ” on
our return from the Dnkeries.

With his proverbial kindness Mr. Henry Machin, J.P., met us
at ancient Worksop, and drove us to his charming home at Gate-
ford Hill. A land of plenty it seemed, as the heavy crops ©f corn
in the fields around swayed in the breeze, and the green crops were
pleasant to see, thriving as they were, without a blank in the
rows. Good land, good culture, cleanliness, and care were stamped
on the face of the compact estate. One of the features to leave an
impress on the visitor was the transformation of a drying ground,
®n the stable side of the mansion, into a delightful rosery. A very

common sense arrangement it may be termed — a series of long beds
about 4 feet wide, with glades of smooth lawn between them. All
the blooms could be seen and reached, but the most charming
effect was produced by the floriferous Polyantha Roses. Surely all
the varieties must be there — not in isolated plants, but sheets or
masses, the floriferous trusses rising from a bed of glossy green
foliage, producing a delightful effect. That is the way to grow
and show the Fairies, not dotting a plant here and there, to bo
“ lost ” among its larger congeners. Mr. Machin’s exhibition
Roses are grown under, so to say, field culture. He is a true Rose
amateur — i.e.^ lover, for this is the English equivalent of the Latin
mnator, a lover. They are grown in a slice off a field, where they
have plenty of air, and not in a garden confined. The young
squire of Gateford has done very well as a beginner in showing,
and will do better in the future. If he will take a hint from an
older man, who commenced budding fifty years ago, he will give
his plants liquid manure in the winter, and not be afraid to give it
plentifully, and of twice or thrice the strength of a summer
application. The best kind of all would be stable drainage, for
soil of the texture displayed is seldom rich in potash ; and at any
rate more could not possibly do harm, and might be of marked
benefit to the Roses. Let him try the experiment, and if it does
not answer let him not treat his visitor so well if he should call
again another year. He will risk incurring the penalty. After a
walk through the enjoyable old world kitchen garden there is yet
nearly two hours to luncheon — just time for a drive to Hodsock
suggests our friend, forthwith ordering another conveyance.

Hodsock Priory, the home of the Mellish family, is a familiar
name to the readers of the Journal of Horticulture, as mentioned in
connection with carefully compiled meteorological notes by Mr.
J. Mallender, the gardener. The mansion is old, some parts of it
very ancient, and the garden is in keeping with it, while Mr.
Mallender is no novice, as be has been engaged at Hodsock for
more than thirty years. Miss Mellish may be fairly described as a
real garden lover, as indeed all the family are, and with her love
for plants is combined knowledge. Garish show and formal effect
are not sought for in this old-fashioned place. Plants are cherished
for their individualities, and more pride would be taken in
preserving some rarity and growing a plant needing special care,
than in creating a sensation in colour with thousands of familiar
bedding plants. Water plants, bog plants, hardy border plants, and
old-fashioned Roses prevail at Hodsock ; the border plants
grouped in colours, such as white, pink, red, yellow, blue, and so
on, according to Miss Jekyll’s idea of arrangement, instead of the
orthodox mixtures. The old time garden Roses are seen at every
turn, but en masse in five or six V-shaped beds their points con¬
verging at the terrace platform. These beds are apparently about
60 yards long, and must afford cartloads of fragrant trusses. Then
the lovely miniature or Polyantha Roses are cherished, and a round
bed of them with a local novelty in the form of a hardy Pea
covered with brick-red flowers, was much admired. The pleasant
reception accorded by the family and Mr. Mallender was highly
appreciated, but half an hour was all too short for inspecting the
treasures of the garden at Hodsock.

After luncheon at Gateford and a quiet stroll among the Roses
through the pleasure grounds our untiring host thought there was
time for a drive to Clumber to see Mr. Slade, and have a look
round the gardens in the cool of the evening, a happy thought well
carried out, ending in all being satisfied with the visit. Clumber is
a great place, and Mr. Slade is a “great” gardener, surely one of
the greatest (if scaled) and his work is as good as he is weighty.
Owing to the vicissitudes of life, to which high and low are exposed.
Clumber was for years, so to say, deserted, and “ Time’s effacing
fingers ” left their mark behind. But an improving spirit is
abroad now, and the present Duke and Duchess of Newcastle, whose
goodness are on all tongues, evidently intend to make their
splendid heritage worthy of its ancient fame. The garden
structures are old, heavy, and out of date ; but Mr. Slade, like a
sensible man, makes the best of them, and does more than could
be expected with them. His Pines, Peaches, and Grapes won
honours where it is hard to win them — at Shrewsbury, and when
this can be done under present conditions what may we expect
after the restoration that will in due time be accomplished ? The
first thought of the Duke appears to be the comfort of workers.
A splendid new house has been built for Mr. Slade, one of the best
gardeners’ homes in the kingdom, and new bothies are in pro¬
gress, which will combine every requisite for the comfort of the
men. Fruits, plants, flowers, and vegetables are in great demand,
and the supply is ample and meritorious.

The most commanding features of Clumber are the mansion,
lake and phasure grounds. The noble building overlooks an
extensive terrace flower garden, the fountain in the centre having been
cut from a block of mrrble weighing 50 tons. The lake of nearly
90 acres stretches away right and left till lost in the distance

September 28, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

286

beyond the trees. Beyond is forest scenery. On the mansion side
of the lake are acres of lawn, stretching far away, studded with
noble trees of various kinds, a few crowded, no doubt, but all cared
for and everything in excellent keeping. Contiguous to the
mansion is the new church, a splendid architectural ornament and
beautiful within. A magnificent Turkey Oak affords an effective
foil to the building, but is spoiling another tree, or this spoiling the
Oak which would be a pity. When trees have been allowed to grow
so long together so as to mar each other it is often difficult to know
what to do for the best, but the Duke has a gardener whose
experience and judgment will not lead astray in any matters
connected with his charge. Clumber is a princely place, and Mr.
Slade appears the right man for the position which he fills so well.

The shades of evening fall, and Mr. Machin drives us to the
“ Royal,” at Worksop where we rest till the morrow, when we have
to face the flies in Sherwood Forest en route from Welbeck to
Thoresby. — A City Man.

WINTER-FLOWERING PLANTS.

The time has now arrived when a general re-arrangement of
the inmates of glass structures becomes necessary, so that those
plants which have been refreshing themselves in the open air may
again be placed under glass, where they will be safe from frost.
In carrying out this work there is a general tendency to overcrowd¬
ing, and a most unwise policy it is in the majority of instances, the
exceptions being those plants which are only required to give
cuttings in the spring, or others which are passing through a
period of partial or total rest, and consequently make little or no
top growth during the next few months. These may, for con¬
venience sake, be placed closely together whenever a scarcity of
room is experienced, but on no account should the plants intended
for winter flowering be overcrowded, otherwise good results will
not follow. Although with most of us there seems to be an
inborn aversion to consigning plants to the rubbish heap, it is never¬
theless sound policy to occasionally “ weed” out with no unsparing
hand weakly or unsightly plants in order to secure room for the
full development of others, and thus prevent their drifting into
the same unsatisfactory state. This practice may with advan¬
tage be carried out at the present time, so that the large numbers
of plants intended for winter flowering which have during the
summer months been grown in the open air or cold pits, may be
arranged thinly in positions favourable to their well-being. True,
it is not always possible to place each class of plants under the
exact conditions which experience teaches us to be the best, but
much may be done by giving the most important ones the best
positions.

Begonias. — Although these are not so much grown for winter
flowering as formerly, several species and varieties are extremely
useful for the purpose. Insignis, manicata, and nitida are three
of the best that I am acquainted with. They are also very
accommodating plants, and succeed well in old houses where many
other plants cut but a sorry figure. Each of the trio produces
flowers either pink or rose in colour, which are very useful in a
cut state, and the two first-named make handsome decorative
specimens for use in pots. Plants which have been growing
during the summer in cold pits ought now to be removed to
warmer quarters, where a night temperature of from 50° to 60° is
maintained, under which conditions they will flower well during
the next three months.

Few plants are more useful than Bouvardias for supplying
choice cut flowers especially adapted for arranging in sprays and
buttonholes, provided they are well grown. Cold pits are excellent
positions for them during the summer months, but they should
receive daily syringings during bright weather to prevent attacks
of red spider. After the plants have become established occasional
applications of soot water and Clay’s fertiliser are beneficial,
promoting health, vigour, and cleanliness ; indeed, if these matters
are not attended to green fly, scale, and red spider will invariably
establish themselves on the foliage. Should any of these insects
be found upon the plants, the latter ought to be thoroughly
syringed with a solution of Calvert’s carbolic soap, mixed at the
rate of 2 ozs. to a gallon of water. This I find is a safe and
efficient insecticide. To flower Bouvardias well during the winter
a light house or pit is necessary, and a night temperature of
55° to 60° should be maintained, with a rise of 5° durimg the day.
If grown under cooler conditions a smaller number of flowers is
produced. When much fire heat has to be employed to maintain
those temperatures, special attention must be given to damping
the floor in the house as well as to watering the plants, otherwise
the insects above enumerated will give great trouble and severely
check the formation of flower buds on the side shoots. If the top
lights are left open a little way continually, except during very

severe frosts, the pipes kept slightly warm when the weather is not
bright, liberal ventilation being given when it is, the plants will make
sturdy and floriferous growth.

The following varieties of Bouvardias give a good variation of
colour, the majority of them being very free flowering : — Alfred
Neuner, double white ; Candidissima, white ; Vreelandi, white ;
Elegans, scarlet ; Etna, double red ; Hogarth, scarlet ; Maiden’s
Blush, rosy blush ; Mrs. Robert Green, salmcn pink ; President
Garfield, double pink ; Purity, pure white ; and Vulcan, scarlet.
Humboldti corymbiflora, with its snow white and deliciously scented
flowers, is always much sought after. It seems a pity it is not a
continuous bloomer, like so many of the smaller flowered type.
I find its flowering period seldom extends over a month or six
weeks. This variety succeeds well if planted outdoors during the
summer, provided it is given a warm sunny position and the plants
are set far enough apart for the air to circulate freely between
them. They ought to be potted early in September, and placed on
the north side of a wall to establish themselves before being taken
under glass. When in the latter position less heat and atmospheric
moisture than the majority of Bouvardias require will suffice for
the one specified. Under such conditions the flowers produced
have much greater substance than when given the treatment
recommended for other varieties.

Where flowers of Calla lethiopica are especially prized during
November and December a number of plants should be kept in
pots throughout the year. If these can be stood at the back of a
north wall, away from overhanging trees, they continue to increase
in strength throughout the summer months, and by the present
time many of them will be showing flower spikes. I like to place
these plants in their winter quarters by the end of the present
month. Before arranging them in the houses the application of a
rich top-dressing is of immense benefit to the plants. Loam and
fresh horse droppings in equal parts with a 5-inch potful of
Clay’s fertiliser to a peck of the other ingredients is an excellent
compost to use for the purpose. Light span-roofed or lean-to
houses are the best for Callas, but not absolutely necessary, as I
have frequently produced large numbers of flower spikes during
the autumn months from plants in houses which were both lofty
and heavy in build, but when grown under such conditions the
plants always become more or less drawn, even when kept near
the glass. The advantages of growing the earlier plants entirely
in pots may be easily perceived, as much less artificial heat is
required to bring the flowers out by a given date. Indeed good
clumps which have been planted out are frequently weakened by
applying strong fire heat to hasten the fiower spikes as soon as they
are seen. These which were planted in the open air and have not
yet been lifted should be potted at once, and placed in Peach
houses, vineries, or pits, till they can be removed to more favourable
positions. These will supply bloom during the early spring. They
are generally at their best about Easter. — Labor Omnia Vincit.

PLAIN WORDS ON PRUNING FRUIT TREES.

(ConcUided from joage 271.')

Winter Pruning.

Apple Trees. — The operator should look over all his trees in the
autumn immediately the leaves have fallen. If summer pruning has
been properly attended to the winter work will be light ; but many
gardeners have not the time during the summer to attend to this matter,
and consequently the pruning is left until the winter. This is not always
advisable, inasmuch as the trees can be kept in better order by judicious
summer pruning, and, moreover, made to produce better crops. In
pruning a young tree the operator should consider the shape and form
he wishes it to assume. Leading shoots for the formation of bush
pyramids or espaliers should be well looked after. In pruning cut back
to a bud that is on the outside of the shoot, which will help to keep the
head open. Insert the knife directly opposite the bud, and then make a
slanting cut upwards so as to come out a little over the bud. If the
cut is made too low down the growth from the bud will be weak, and in
some cases the shoot will get broken up by the wind. All dead branches
and spurs should be cut away, as they give the trees an unsightly ap¬
pearance. The heads of the trees must be kept open ; cross branches
should always be cut away, also any useless wood. The aim of the
pruner should be to regulate the tree so as to give every leaf and bud
sufficient room to develop ; then if the roots have been properly attended
to a good crop of fruit should be the result. If previous iiistructions
have been carried out Apple trees will require but little attention besides
shortening side shoots and to thinning the head to induce fruit spurs to
form. As regards trees that have not attained their full size and the
leading shoots have been left for extension, these should be shortened
back to about 18 inches, pruning to an outer bud. This chiefly applies
to bushes, which are the best for gardens. A standard tree after the
head is formed will need little pruning besides the cutting out of cross
branches and not allowing the shoots to become crowded.

Pear Trees. — Pears on the bush system should be pruned similarly
to the Apple, but trees that are growing against walls require different

286

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 28, 1893.

treatment, so as to cover the allotted space. In pruning the young tree
leave the branches about 12 inches asunder. The leader must be cut
back to the proper distance, then three shoots will be required, one for
leader and two for side branches. The latter will not require much
shortening, as it is desirable to cover the wall as soon as possible. With
some varieties it is possible to take two or more courses in one year. If
a bud refuses to break, it is, in my opinion, a good plan to make an
incision in the bark over the bud, which will check the flow of sap and
■cause the bud to start into growth.

Peach Trees. — Assuming that a Peach tree haslbeen properly attended
to during the summer, and only sufficient wood laid in to replace that
wliich has borne fruit, the latter should be cut away with a sharp knife
close to the base of the young shoot which is destined to take its place
ior the next year’s crop. Shorten the young shoot to where there is a
wood bud. On some shoots it will be found that there is no wood bud
•except the terminal bud, in which case the shoot must be left at full
length, as the fruit cannot come to perfection unless leaves are produced
■beyond it. To distinguish fruit buds from wood buds is a very simple
matter. The former are full and plump, whereas the wood buds are thin
and pointed, and are generally found between two fruit buds. When
this is so the shoot can safely be cut back to the length required.
Young gardeners and amateurs will avert much disappointment by
carefully observing this one particular point.

Cherry and Plum Trees. — These will not require much winter pruning
beyond cutting away dead wood or thinning spurs, and in the case of
full grown trees spurring back leading shoots not pruned during the
summer. The Morello Cherry should be treated similarly to the Peach,
cutting away all the old wood that has borne fruit to make room for the
young shoots. Standards are better if left to themselves. Plums
require but little winter pruning if properly attended to during the
summer. Figs should be treated like the Peach, as they fruit on the
new wood, which must not be shortened except to induce young shoots
for the coming year.

Push Fruits. — Red and White Currants should be pruned hard back
after the bush is formed, as the fruit buds form in clusters at the base
of the young shoots. A young plant should be cut back to produce
vigorous growth. Select four shoots to form the base of the bush, then
at the next pruning cut them back, and from the young growths choose
eight shoots, which will be found sufficient to form a bush. Keep the
centre open. A good height will be from 4 to 5 feet. All shoots should
be spurred in to the main stem. Black Currants require different treat¬
ment, as they fruit on the previous year’s wood. A good practice is to
■cut out weakly shoots and encourage vigorous young growths, cutting
away the old wood. Raspberries should be kept to four canes in a
•clump ; if more have been allowed to grow they should be cut away,
and the remaining four shortened back to 4 or 5 feet.

Root-pruning . — All trees before they are planted should be examined,
and all tap roots cut away with sharp knife. After these are removed
•cut away the bruised parts of the other roots to encourage the emission
of fibrous roots. The greatest attention should be paid to this part of
pruning. It is a good plan to train the roots to grow straight from the
stem of the tree. All the roots that cross should be shortened. In
young plants the roots should be shortened to about 18 inches from the
stem. The root-pruning of old trees is rather a difficult operation, and
should not be attempted by amateurs. In the case of an old tree that
has never been pruned before, it is better to operate only on one side for
the first year. Dig a trench not less than 3 feet wide and 2 feet deep,
the distance from the stem and also the depth must be in proportion to
the size of the tree. The trench being dug, examine the roots, and cut
the ends off those which are bruised with a sharp knife. Thrust a spade
beneath the ball of soil around the stem of the tree to sever any tap
roots. ^ The trench must then be filled in with fresh soil, and a good
watering given. The following year the other side of the tree may be
-treated in a similar manner. — A Working Gardener.

SOFT VERSUS HARD COLD WATER FOR PLANTS.

It would appear Mr. Dunn (page 271) has very little to advance in
*the shape of argument to further his ideas on this matter, or he would
have published them, instead of indulging in a mere play upon words,
and suggesting that my training and observation have been so limited
as to render me incapable of realising what can be grown in large
gardens. Such is Mr. Dunn’s summing-up of myself. It seems he has
•already had sufficient of the real question, and would fain turn the
•matter into other channels. But that will not do. Your correspondent
has on page 214, September 7th, described cold hard water as an
^‘obnoxious drug,” and little better than “slow poison” for plants. He
suggests that I do not understand the meaning of the word “ stubborn.”
He will find if he looks in his dictionary that it means “ firm,” and
the facts I adduced on page 239 are as firm this week as when they
were recorded. Now, let him find, if he can, if pure hard cold water
■is by any authority described as an “ obnoxious drug,” and he may
also, with advantage to himself, endeavour to trace the meaning of
“ poison.” Both those epithets, as applied by him, are, in my view,
•grossly incorrect. He has committed himself to dicta, the truth of
which he must prove before what he may say in other respects can
have weight with intelligent readers.

His references to drained and undrained soil are beside the question,
for plants fail in waterlogged soil whether the water is soft or hard, and
there is more soft water than hard in quagmires. The relative values
•ot warm and cold showers are not in question. He made a positive

statement that hard cold water is an obnoxious drug poisonous to plants.
He must either prove, withdraw, or modify that statement, or stand
self-convicted on its inaccuracy. That is the point, and all arguments
around it will be mere word-spinning.

I have given instances of the water so unequivocally condemned by
Mr. Dunn, proving of enormous value in the profitable cultivation of
Grapes, Cucumbers, and plants. Hundreds of persons have seen the
examples, and Mr. Dunn may see similar results in scores of establish¬
ments, where the best Covent Garden produce is grown. The question,
I repeat, is not of one kind of water being better than another, but of
hard cold water being “ an obnoxious drug poisonous to plants.” That is
Mr. Dunn’s astounding allegation. I have rebutted it with a narration
of facts much too stubborn to be dissipated by any person who is so
loose in his phraseology as Mr. Dunn has, to my mind, shown himself
to be. — J. B. R.

Much experience with “ hard cold water ” is my excuse for entering
shortly in the discussion on the subject. If hard cold water were “ slow
poison” our prospects here for the future would be miserable indeed.
During the whole of this year the rainfall has been so light that “ warm
soft water ” has been quite out of the question for plants of any kind.
So dry has been the weather that, instead of having all our tanks full
of warmed water, they have been quite dry when pumping day came
round, and by the time the water entered them plants of various kinds
were quite ready to receive a supply. The only source of water here,
irrespective of the small amount of rainfall, is one well dug in the chalk
250 feet deep. One would imagine the water drawn from such a depth
is as cold as water can be in summer, and I think there is no doubt it
is as hard as it is possible to obtain any. Within five minutes of the
water being pumped from this well it has many times this summer been
given to plants of various kinds, including Chrysanthemums and
Calanthes. Grapes, Peaches, and Melons have also been refreshed with
supplies of this hard cold water. He would be a bold person who would
say any of these are being poisoned ever so slowly. While perhaps wishing
that I could not only soften but warm this water before applying it to
the roots and over the foliage, I find it is impossible to do either, so
many are the calls upon our one well. We are thankful to take it as
it comes, and will wait and see whether it proves to be “ slow poison ”
or not. So far, I am bound to say, it appears to have had a distinctly
nourishing effect. — E. Molyneux, Swanmore, Hants,

EARLY PEARS.

In the Journal of Horticulture Dr. Jules Guyot has been recom¬
mended as a good Pear. I have fruited this variety as a cordon on a
south wall for the past five or six years, and I do not think it is ever
likely to be so valuable as Williams’ Bon Chretien. It is, indeed, a
prettier fruit, is sweet and good ; but I have never had it so delicious
as the old “Williams” when in perfection. Souvenir du Congr^s has
become very popular, no doubt on account of its large size combined
with a prolific habit. Some wonderfully fine examples of this desirable
Pear have been exhibited this year, and it is sure to be grown more
largely than ever. My opinion is that a few cordon trees will yield a
sufficient supply for most establishments. The old Beurr6 d’Amanlis is,
I think, a more useful variety. Clapp’s Favourite as a cordon has
yielded some delicious early fruits of good size. It possesses the
desirable property absent in most early Pears, of ripening a few at a
time, so that from one tree a supply can be gathered to bridge over
several weeks. It seems to make way very slowly, but is bound to
become a standard garden fruit. I have a cordon tree of a Bergamot
named Dr. Hogg. It is delicious, and follows Beurr^ d’Amanlis,
ripening about the same time as Louise Bonne of Jersey. Another
delicious autumn Pear of the same shape, but larger, is Fondante
d’Automne. This, with me, is later than Louise Bonne of Jersey.

I have planted several trees of Marie Louise, the most useful of
early winter kinds. It is seldom we have too many tof this, as it ripens
slowly and its season is easily extended by a little care in gathering and
by keeping the later fruit cool. Moreover, no Pear sells better, as it
holds a high character in the market. I have a young tree of Beurr6
Bachelier, a Pear which ripens earlier than the above, and is a most
prolific variety. The flavour is, however, rather poor, and it is useful
alone on account of its never failing to bear, and therefore of value in
seasons when good Pears are scarce. Pitmaston Duchess produces
enormous fruits, but it has the fault of the last-named without the
redeeming quality of producing fruit freely. Where space is limited I
should personally be inclined to leave it out. Hacon’s Incomparable is
very good in some seasons, and bears freely every year.

The time will soon arrive when any new trees that may be wanted
must be purchased. On this point I may be allowed to say that it is
necessary to keep a supply of young fruitful trees. In some soils no
doubt old Pear trees bear fruit with wonderful regularity ; but in very
many gardens the soil is so unsuitable that root-pruning and the best
attention to the branches combined fail to produce trees worth the
trouble they incur. I have some magnificent trees under my charge,
but if I had not from time to time introduced young trees the Pear
crop of 1893 in our case would have been a small one. With young
vigorous trees, however, I shall have no difficulty in meeting current
demands. I prefer maiden trees to those that are older. They can be
purchased cheaply, and the trees may be grown in any form it may be found
necessary to train them. As a last word, let me advise intending planters
to order trees at once, so that they can be planted before thewinter. — B.

September ?8, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

287

The Late M. Guillot.

In common with thousands of Rose cultivators, I mourn the death
of M. Guillot of Lyons. He has, as your correspondent, " D., Beal"
il[page 272), indicates, immortalised himself by his world-famous pro¬
ductions, such as La France, Catherine Mermet, and Ernest Metz, which
have so many admirable attributes, such as those of form, of fragrance,
and floriferousness, that they are not likely to be superseded or sur¬
passed. He was unquestionably the greatest of modern French rosa-
rians. As Mr. Wm. I’aul of Waltham has been for a long period the
intimate friend of these, I venture to express the hope that he will, ere
long, contribute to J ournal his personal reminiscences of M. Guillot.
— David R. Williamson.

A Large Mar£chal Niel Rose.

In paying a recent visit to Knowsley Cottage, the residence of Thos.
Pilkington, Esq., I found planted on the end and trained along a back
wall of a vinery a fine Mar^chal Niel Rose tree. The Rose under notice
was planted some ten years ago, and is on its own roots. Twelve wires
9 inches asunder cover the back wall, and to each of these a shoot of the
Rose has been trained, and the growths have reached a total length of
24J yards. The tree is in perfect condition as regards foliage, but canker
has shown itself upon the older of the two stems from which the shoots
are taken, the other being quite young and vigorous. A difficulty to its
blooming freely was the free access of the roots into the Vine border.
This has been overcome by a brick chamber built so as to confine
the roots. After growth is completed the plants can now be given a
period of rest. Good loam and liquid manure when in growth are what
the plant feeds upon, and no mildew is to be seen. The shoots trained
across the end of the house yield blooms a fortnight earlier than those
on the back wall — R. P. R.

PEARS VERSUS PEACHES.

I FOR one cannot agree that “ Pears are infinitely better and more
profitable than Peaches ” grown out of doors, because here I have
abundant proof that the latter are more profitable than the former,
given equal conditions as to site and culture. I am well aware that
Peaches on open walls in several gardens are a failure, but why is it in
many cases ? Given a favourable locality I consider the Peach crop is
the most certain of all hardy fruits when the trees are reasonably
managed. I am ready to admit that in some districts where the
situation is low there may be more difficulty in obtaining a full crop of
fruit annually, but I am also well aware that in some of these gardens
the trees are not managed in the proper way to secure the best results.
When the soil is made rich enough by heavy manuring to grow full
crops of vegetables over the roots of the trees, and when the foliage is
permitted to be infested in the spring with black fly, to be followed
with red spider in the summer, we may expect that outside Peach
culture will be condemned. But is it fair ?

Other mistakes besides those are continually being made, such as
deferring the pruning of the trees until the spring, thus depriving them
of a reasonable chance of maturing their wood. A lack of water at the
roots is also another cause of failure with Peaches. Without sufficient
moisture after the crop is gathered trees cannot prepare the fruit buds
for the next year’s crop of fruit. So long as such cultural points
are neglected it matters little what locality Peach trees are found, the
crop will be light, and the argument of “ Pears being infinitely better”
holds good. This, however, is not the right way to view the matter, and
given equal conditions of situation I say that open air Peaches are by far
the more remunerative crop.

I will cite an example on the remunerative side of the argument for
the two sorts of fruit. A tree of Peach Grosse Mignonne, covering
30 feet of an 8 feet wall, this year ripened 300 good fruit early in the
month of August. Every fruit could have been sold at the rate of Ss.
per dozen, taking this as the minimum price. Growing against the same
south wall are cordon Pear trees in really good condition. Fruit from
the varieties Louise Bonne de Jersey and Duchesse d’Angouleme of the
first quality would not fetch more than 2d. per lb. Now, who would say
the same amount of wall space occupied with Pears would give the
same return as the Peaches ?

I do not stop at Peaches growing against south walls. I have this
year gathered fruit of Late Admirable, weighed 10 ozs. each, from a tree
facing east, and Royal George tree gave similar excellent fruit. Both
these trees occupy a very much exposed site. Although these same trees
seldom miss a crop of “ blister,” their healthy character otherwise
seems to pull them through. We grow Peaches against west walls also,
and with good results. Pears, I find, are much more difficult to sell
than Peaches owing to the immense quantity that come from Jersey and
France. When eighteen magnificent fruit of Williams’ Bon ChrStien
can be bought in the market for Is. 9d., what chance is there for
English grown fruit? My experience is that fruiterers care but little
for Pitmaston Duchess Pears when they can obtain fine fruit of Duchesse

d’Angouleme. So much as gardeners think of Jargonelle and Marie
Louise Pears, there is a great difficulty to induce fruiterers to buy them.

I am well aware that this has been an exceptional season for outside
Peaches. We gathered our first fruit from an open wall June 24th, and
have not been without Peaches since, and have still a few fruit. With
such sorts as Alexander to commence with, followed by Early Louise,
Waterloo, Hale’s Early, Bellegarde, Grosse Mignonne, Dymond, Royal
George, Walburton Admirable, and Late Admirable, there need be no
great difficulty in having an uninterrupted succession of fruit from the
open walls. From the remarks of “ C,” (page 259), he would have us
believe that when Peach trees are blistered during March and April it
is useless to expect them to recover that year. This is not my experi¬
ence, and I have to contend with east winds. If the trees are otherwise
healthy “ blister ” should not prevent their perfecting a full crop of
fruit.

As much as I like Pears it would never do to follow the suggestion of your
correspondent and substitute Pears in all cases for Peaches. The great
charm of a garden is the variety which it is made to produce, and this
applies equally to hardy fruit. We must have proof positive that a fair
trial has been given to the Peach trees before we dispense with them,
especially when Pears will grow equally, or nearly as well, against other
walls. Except in extreme cases I am hard to convince that Peaches are
so difficult to cultivate on south walls. I know they have been con¬
demned in many cases, but the judgment was misplaced. —
E. Molyneux, Sioanmore Park, Tlants.

Salwey Peaches Ripe in September.

We are now (September 23rd) gathering large, ripe, and beautifully
coloured fruits of the Salwey Peach from a tree on a south wall, the
crops borne by three trees of that excellent late Peach Sea Eagle,
occupying space on the same wall having been finished a fortnight ago.
The supply, in the meantime, had been maintained by Lord Palmerston
on a west wall, and Violette Hative on a wall having an east aspect.
The trees of the last mentioned variety produced equally fine fruits
as were gathered some weeks earlier from trees of the same kind growing
against a south wall.

It is certainly an advantage to growers who have to maintain a
regular supply of ripe Peaches from as early as possible and as late into
autumn as they can be obtained, to have trees of early and midsummer
varieties on walls having respectively south, east and west aspects. By
planting, say, two trees of Alexander, one on a south and the other on
a west wall, Amsden and Hale’s Early on a south wall, and another
tree of the latter fine Peach on a west wall, a better succession of ripe
Peaches is thereby secured than could otherwise be obtained. The
succession to the supply yielded by trees of the above mentioned Peaches
planted as indicated may be continued by such varieties as Dr. Hogg,
Early Grosse Mignonne, Dymond, Royal George, Bellegarde, Violette
Hdtive, Princess of Wales, Barrington, and Sea Eagle, planted all against
south walls, or in the manner described above, a tree of Salwey being
planted against a south wall to come in last, generally towards the
middle or end of October. This is the first year in my experience for
the fruit of the Salwey Peach to be ripe in September.

This being the time for transplanting home-grown trees and obtain¬
ing fresh ones the above remarks may prove as useful as they are oppor¬
tune to intending planters generally, but more especially to amateurs,
who may modify the plan recommended above to suit their own indi¬
vidual circumstances, — H. W. Ward.

LIVERPOOL NOTES.

The Autumn Show.

As would be noticed by many of your readers from the advertisement
in the Journal of Horticulture last week our autumn Show is to take
place on Tuesday and Wednesday, November 7th and 8th, and not on
the 15th and 16th, as previously arranged. According to the season this
is a step in the right direction, for Chrysanthemums are rather early,
and if bright frosty weather should come the former date will probably
be more suitable for many good varieties. It has been a most trying
summer, but there are certain to be some fine blooms. We are all look¬
ing forward to a wonderful display of fruit, which is of splendid quality
in Lancashire, and the earlier date is without a doubt more suitable, for
Pears and Apples are quite a fortnight or three weeks earlier than on
former seasons. I may mention that liberal prizes are again offered.

Successful Eucharis Culture.

Owing to a breakdown of the heating apparatus in connection with
the glass houses at Parkside, Huy ton, the residence of J. A. Willox, Esq.,
M.P., the magnificent Eucharis in 12 and 16-inch pots were completely
frozen through last winter and the foliage killed. To many persons the
bulbs appeared useless, and, indeed, advice to that effect was freely
given, buD Mr. Wattie, the gardener, made an effort to save his plants.
Some good loam (two parts) with the finer particles taken out, charcoal
refuse, dried horse droppings passed through a sieve, and coarse silver
sand were selected and mixed well together. Three or four hard bricks
were heated and transferred to the centre of the compost. These heated
bricks were used as a precaution against any danger from germs in the
soil. Eight and 10-inch pots were scrubbed, drained, and half filled
with the compost, on which some silver sand was placed, leaving all thus
ready for the reception of the bulbs. The latter were not washed, nor
does Mr, Wattie believe in washing with any solution unless the greatest

288

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 28, 1893.

care is exercised. The bulbs being dry the old soil was removed with a
well worn hat brush, six being placed in an 8-inch and eight in a 10-inch
pot. A little of the compost was then put in between the bulbs, and
the pots stood on a boarded stage, the temperature of the house ranging
from 65° to 70°, rising with sun heat. A watering was given at a tem¬
perature of 90°, and an occasional damping about the pots was all the
moisture applied until growth had commenced, after which copious sup¬
plies were given. The freezing occurred at the end of February. Now
the plants have massive leaves 6 and 7 inches across, pots full of thick
white roots, and have produced an abundance of flowers during the past
six weeks.

Tomatoes in Shallow Boxes.

Is a deep soil necessary for the growth of the Tomato ? was a
question which occurred to me after leaving the Eucharis referred to
above. In the early Peach house I noticed some grand well fruited plants,
growing in ordinary cutting boxes 1^ and 2 inches deep and 18 inches
long, placed on the narrow stage at the front of the house. The plants
were trained to upright stakes, and there were two in each box. Good
loam had been used in planting, with a top-dressing of horse manure
given, and Sutton’s Al, Hackwood Park, Carter’s Traveller (a beautiful
free setting, large and solid red fruits), and Golden Sunrise (the now
well known yellow) were carrying heavy crops. They were some sur¬
plus plants which had been planted in the shallow boxes with the object
of getting a few fruits from them. The lesson learnt is that good
Tomatoes can be well grown in very little soil, provided the plants are
properly watered. — K. P. R.

Events of the Week. — But few events of horticultural interes
will take place during the ensuing week. The special Show of fruit
and vegetables which opened at the Gardening and Forestry Exhibition,
Earl’s Court, on Wednesday will remain open to-day (Thursday) and
to-morrow. Several sales of garden produce, particulars of which have
been advertised, will be held in the various auction rooms in the
metropolis.

- The Weather in London. — Since publishing our last issue

the weather in the Metropolis has been of a variable character. Until
Friday it was warm and summer-like, but on the day mentioned it
became cold, as also was Saturday, when showers occurred. Sunday
opened bright and comparatively warm, Monday proving colder, with
occasional showers. Tuesday was mild, and early on Wednesday
morning it rained heavily. At the time of going to press, however, it is
fine. Slight frosts have occurred at night, but at the time of writing
no damage has been done to tender plants.

- Death op Mrs. Latham. — We deeply regret to announce the

death of Mrs. Latham of the Edgbaston Botanical Gardens, Birmingham,
which took] place on the morning of the 24:th inst. somewhat sud¬
denly, ]after a' long and dangerous illness, from which it was hoped
she was recovering. A very large circle of friends sincerely sympathize
with Mr. Latham in his bereavement.

- Testimonial to Mr. Thomas Manning. — We have pleasure

in announcing that the Committee of Gardeners formed for the purpose
of offering to Mr. Manning some mark of respect on his retirement from
active duty, have had gratifying support in the form of contributions
towards carrying out the object in view. A large number of gardeners
and others at once sent subscriptions, which are limited to lOs. 6d., to
Mr. George Wythes, Syon House Gardens, Brentford, Treasurer of the
Fund ; or Mr. James Hudson, Gunnersbury House Gardens, Acton^
London, W., Honorary Secretary. The subscription list closes on
October 7 th.

- Gardening Appointments. — We learn that Mr. James

Gibson, recently of The Oaks, Carshalton, a first-class vegetable grower
and exhibitor, as well as an all-round horticulturist, is about to enter
the service of A. H. Watts, Esq., Devonhurst, Chiswick, as head gardener,
where it is hoped he may find ample scope for his abilities, Mr. A.
Aitkins, for the past two years foreman under Mr. Lewin at Drumpellier,
N.B., has been appointed gardener to Colonel King-Harman, Newcastle,
Ballymahon, Ireland. Mr. W. Adams has been appointed head gardener
to Mrs. Walker, Rydinghurst, Cranleigh, Surrey. Mr. G. Phillips, late
gardener to W, Banon, Esq., Taplow House, Maidenhead, is appointed
head gardener to the Rev. G. W. Corbit, Sundorne Castle, Shrewsbury.

- It is with unfeigned regret that we announce the death of

Miss Sarah Lloyd, daughter of the late well-known florist, Mr.
Lloyd of Sheet, near Petersfield. Mr. Lloyd’s specialty was the Tulip,
of which he possessed a very choice collection, and which his daughter
has carefully tended since his death in December last. Miss Lloyd
was also an ardent florist. She died, after a short illness, at her
residence at Sheet on the evening of the 25th inst., deeply regretted.

- The Grape Crop in America.— Grapes in the Lake Erie

region, according to an American exchange, are looking fine. From-
Dunkirk, in Chautauqua County, to Cleveland, Ohio, the crop has more
than a usually promising appearance. The vineyardists of that section
have long recognised the importance of exterminating weeds and of
cultivating the Vines as carefully as other crops are cultivated. Some
of their vineyards, containing from 25 to 50 acres, and laid out with
extreme regularity, are indeed a beautiful sight.

- The Currant Crop in Greece. — While most countries have

suffered from poor crops this year, Greece has been exceptionally
favoured. The Currant crop amounts to 160,000 tons, while last year
it was only 112,000 tons. Again, the crop of Olives is reported to be
three times as large as it was in 1892, and the Wheat crop is also said
to be good. The agricultural population, therefore, of Greece, ought, one
would think, to be prosperous. There is, of course a grievance, on
account of the low price of Currants. The new crop is selling at
8s. a cwt. to London or Liverpool, which is a sad falling off from last
year, when there were buyers on the same terms at 198. a cwt.

- Single Cactus Dahlias.— Messrs. Dobbie & Co., Rothesay^

N.B., send us blooms of a new type of single Cactus Dahlias that has
been distributed by them this season. The flowers are of medium size,
with reflexed florets of various colours. For decorative purposes these
Dahlias are undoubtedly useful, but they will not find favour with every¬
one, no more than the single Chrysanthemums do. The flowers sent,
however, are fresh, and among the named varieties Highland Mary, rich
scarlet ; Meg Merrilies, lemon yellow ; Guy Mannering, blush ; and
Robert Burns, purplish magenta, are specially good. Blooms of some
unnamed seedlings of merit are also noticeable in the same collection.

- Shrivelled Potatoes. — The case to which “ Middledale

(page 266) refers of Potatoes being found in a flabby or soft condition is
not at all novel. I have often met with tubers in a similar condition, and
have always attributed it to scald from occasional very hot sunshine.
It is usually found where the tubers are very thinly covered with soil,
or has sometimes occurred where through some accident the plant stem
has been injured, and soil partially removed from the tubers, thus
exposing them to undue heat. Of course it is a case that seldom occurs,
and for that reason it is of little importance. Still, whenever oddities
in any garden product are found it is but natural that anyone should
wish to know the why and the wherefore. — A. D.

- The Sirex gigas. — I was surprised to read on page 279 that

this beautiful insect “ has been taken in England but very rarely.”

I have at odd times taken a few insects, and retained them as objects
of interest, and now have some fine specimens. They do not appear
rare in our neighbourhood near Bath. I take it that this insect
has not an actual sting in the ordinary sense of the word. I have
handled them when alive, but have never been stung ; this, of course,
does not go for much. The very wonderful tail that the female has,
often more than half an inch long, is not a sting, though it is quite
possible it might inflict injury on the skin ; but its use is to pierce the
wood in order to lay its eggs therein, and the Pine forests in some
countries are often much injured by this gigantic sawfly. Wood calls
this instrument a gimlet. — Y. B. A. Z.

- The Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. — We learn that a

large committee of gardeners of Kingston, Surbiton, and district,
including the leading members of the fraternity in that locality, with
Mr. T. Cushon, Norbiton Hall Gardens, as Chairman, Mr. E. Bennett,
Hampton Court, Vice-Chairman, Mr. W. Furze, Roselands, Teddington,
and Mr. A. Dean, Kingston, Secretary, has been formed for the purpose
of promoting a grand concert in aid of the above Fund, at the
Surbiton Assembly Rooms, on the evening of October 25th. A strong
effort is being made with considerable success to secure an influential
list of patrons. The concert is being furnished by Mr. W. Furze, who is
himself an excellent amateur vocalist, and who promises a first-class
programme. The effort is a somewhat ambitious one, but it is hoped
that with some active canvassers in the district tickets will be largely
sold and a great success achieved.

September 28, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

289

- Frost in Surrey. — A Godaiming correspondent informs us

that 5“ of frost occurred last Saturday night in that district which
destroyed all the Runner Beans, Vegetable Marrows, and plants of a
similar nature.

- Cassia, corymbosa. — Mr. H. R. Richards, Roche Court,

Salisbury, writes: — This fine old plant has been flowering here 'con¬
tinually since J une, and seems likely to go on for another month at
least. There are but few better plants for standing out of doors in
vases, and a great point in its favour is the comparative immunity
which it enjoys from insect pests.

- A Sparrow Trap. — I want to make a fortune (vide page 265).

Sparrows are easily tamed by feeding them regularly for a few days near
the doorway of an outhouse, gradually introducing the food to the
interior. The sparrows will soon enter freely and confidently. When
many are inside close the door by drawing a string or other contrivance
previously arranged. “Country Amateur” will then have them, and
can send the fortune, care of the Editor, to — W. T. B.

- Wakefield Paxton Society. — There was a brilliant display

of Tuberous Begonias at the rooms of this Society on the occasion
of a recent meeting, when Mr. Vere, gardener to Mr. W. H. Stewart, J.P.,
of Milnthorpe House, read a practical paper upon their culture. In
the paper he pointed out that under suitable conditions Begonias
would prove formidable rivals to the Pelargoniums. It was, he said
a novel and pleasing change, beautiful alike in foliage and flower, and
produced a display with which no other class of plants could vie. Mr.
J. G. Brown presided, and Mr. Thomas was Vice-Chairman. There was
a good attendance.

- Microbes on Roots. — A correspondent sends us the follow¬
ing cutting ; — “ ‘ Symbiosis ’ is a word used by scientists to describe
the peculiar relations which have been found to exist between various
microbes and the roots of plants to obtain necessary food. The Legu-
minosae — such as Peas and Clover — are well known to be assisted very
considerably by a microbe which forms tubercules on the roots, and
multiplying exceedingly there little colonies of microbes ‘ manufac¬
ture ’ nitrogen in large quantities. The fungus or microbe feeds upon
organic matter, but does not make it, whilst plants with green leaves
make organic matter, but do not use it, so that both green-leaved
plants and fungus work or ‘ manufacture ’ for each other, but not for
themselves.”

- The Kingston and Surbiton Gardeners’ Association. —

This young Society means business, for it wound up its summer session
by holding a largely attended and most enjoyable soiree at the Albany
Hall, Kingston, on Wednesday evening last, and opens its autumn
session on Tuesday evening next, October 3rd, in their new rooms in
Eden Street, when Mr. Jas. Martin, the able foreman to Messrs. Sutton
and Sons, Reading, will have an “Evening with the Begonia,” a theme
upon which he is specially entitled to speak. J. P. Trew, Esq., the
President, will take the chair on that occasion. The session will close
on December 12th with a “Chat about Chrysanthemums” by Mr. H. J.
Jones of Lewisham, when it is hoped that the President of the
Chrysanthemum Society, Mr. Alderman Sherrard, will preside.

- Sunderland Gardeners’ Improvement Society. — On

Wednesday, September 20th, the members of this society (upwards
of forty) held their excursion to Hutton Hall Gardens, the seat of Sir
J. W. Pease, M.P. They were kindly met at the station by Mr. Meindoe,
head gardener, and Mr. Funnel, estate agent. Mr. MeIndoe conducted
the party, and explained the various fruits, including the cultivation of
Vines, Figs, Tomatoes, and Citrons, the houses of which extend nearly
three miles (/) The pleasure grounds were next visited, and the Coniferse
were much admired, the marked difference in the atmosphere between
Sunderland and that district being clearly apparent. The company
then adjourned to the boathouse (a remarkable structure of rusticity),
situated at the end of the lake, and on the invitation of Mr. Meindoe
partook of a substantial luncheon. Mr. Funnel then conducted the
party over the hills and estate, including the stables. The party next
proceeded to Guisborough and viewed the priory, abbey, and gardens,
then dined at the Buck Hotel, Mr. Bolam, F.R.H.S., the Chairman of
the Society, presiding. Mr. Meindoe proposed, “ Success to the Sunder¬
land Gardeners’ Society,” and regretted that distance prevented him
becoming a member, but he promised to read a paper on fruit growing.
The health of Sir J. W. Pease, Mr. Meindoe, and Mr. Funnel were
enthusiastically drunk, and also the host and hostess. The party arrived
homo at 9.30 p.m., after enjoying a pleasant and harmonious day. —
James Watson, Hoii. Sec.

- A New Hybrid Clematis. — Monsieur Andr^ describes in a

recent issue of the “Revue Horticole” a new hybrid Clematis, produced
by a French horticulturist at Lyons by fertilizing Clematis Pitcheri
with the pollen of C. coccinea. This new Clematis is said to have
preserved the vigour and the numerous stems of the strong-growing
C. Pitcheri, and the brilliant colour of the flowers of C. coccinea.

- Destroying Weeds.— On page 265 “ W. R. Raillem” con¬
tributes an interesting note on eradicating fleshy rooted weeds. Like
him I have been very successful in destroying Bindweed, Tussilago, and
other fleshy rooted kinds, and like his informant I had my information
from a grand old gardener — viz., the Journal of Horticulture, which
also exposed the folly of allowing weeds to seed before attempting to
root them up. — N. B.

- Garden Guns. — Mr. E. P. Timmins, Balsall Heath, Birming¬
ham, claims by the invention of catapult guns to have overcome the
difficulty of clearing cats, rabbits, and similar destructive animals from
gardens. These guns are made in various sizes, are perfectly silent, and
no licence is required to use them. Mr. Timmins has also produced a
useful contrivance called the “ Beak-weeder,” by which Plantains and
other weeds can be easily removed from lawns and walks.

- Distribution op Surplus Plants at the London

Parks. — As winter is approaching it is announced that the surplus
bedding plants will be distributed to the public on application to the
superintendent at the various parks on the undermentioned dates ; —
Battersea Park, 21th October; Myatt’s Fields, 2 Ist October; Ravens-
court Park, 2l8t October ; Royal Victoria Gardens, North Woolwich,
11th October ; Southwark Park, 27th October ; Victoria Embankment
Gardens, 13th October ; Waterlow Park, 18th October. Many amateurs
in and around the metropolis will doubtless avail themselves of these
opportunities to obtain plants.

- Formosan Camphor. — One of the chief staples of Formosa is

camphor, but the industry is carried on under somewhat unusual
conditions. Mr. Hosie in his late report on Formosa says that the
Camphor Laurel grows in the savage territory only, and the hillmen or
Hakkas, who border on that territory, have to make arrangements with
the savage chiefs to protect or refrain from destroying the stoves or
stills which the former set up in their country. As soon as the hillmen
have settled all preliminaries with the savage chiefs and a suitable spot
has been fixed among the Camphor trees for the erection of a still, the
former proceed to run up a shed or rough building, the size of which
depends on the number of stoves it is intended to contain. If ten are
to be erected the building would be about 20 feet long by 12 feet or
13 feet broad. In the centre of the floor an oblong structure, some
4 feet high, 10 feet long, and 6 feet broad is built of sun-dried mud
bricks, having five fireplaces or holes at each side raised a foot or so
above the floor of the room. The two ends of the structure are solid
and without flreplaces. The latter are so built that an earthenware pot
can easily be inserted above the fire in each hole. An earthenware
cylinder connects the mouth of each pot with the surface of the
structure or still ; between the pot and the lower end of the cylinder
there is a round thin piece of wood fitting both the mouth of the pot
and the lower end of the cylinder, and perforated so as to allow the
steam from the water in the pot to pass into the cylinder during
distillation. The top of each cylinder is usually about a foot in
diameter and is level with the surface of the still. Such a still would
present to the eye a mud structure, with ten round holes on the top and
five fireplaces at each of the two longest ends. To complete it, however,
ten large earthenware jars are required. These during the process of
distillation are placed inverted on the top of the still immediately over
the upper ends of the cylinders so as to form condensers. To prevent
the escape of steam from the condensers bands of jute are fitted firmly
between their mouths and the top of the still. The pots are filled with
water and the cylinders with camphor wood chips; the jars are in
position on the top of the still, and the firewood is lighted under the
pots. When the water boils the steam passes up through the perforated
wood into the cylinders, heats and moistens the chips, and ascends to
the condensers, carrying with it the camphor fumes which the chips
have given forth. The steam then condenses on the inside of the jars,
and when the latter are removed a layer of white camphor crystals is
found adhering to them. This is brushed off by hand and placed in
baskets. The chips are then withdrawn from the cylinders, fresh chips
take their place, water is added to the pots, the condensers are again
placed in position, additional firewood is thrown into the fireplaces, and
the work of distillation recommences,

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JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 28, 1893.

- Sugar cane Disease in Barbadoes. — The steamship

" Atrato,” which arrived at Plymouth a few days ago, brings informa¬
tion of a destructive cane disease that has developed itself at Barbadoes
during this season, and is causing considerable alarm among the sugar
planters. Nearly every estate in the island is losing its sugar crop.
The plants are attacked at their roots, which rot and the plants perish.

- Copperas in Plant Manures. — “Suburban” sends us the

following extract for publication. “ Since the successful application of
copperas or ferrous sulphate in the treatment of plant disease has become
known, manure manufacturers have been in the habit of mixing this
salt with the other ingredients of a manure, more especially in the case
of phosphates. The advisability of this practice has recently been
investigated by authorities. From a number of experiments they have
drawn the conclusion that the addition of copperas has a deleterious
effect upon superphosphates, that is to say, on mono-calcium and
bi-calcium phosphates ; but when tri-calcium phosphate is treated with
eopperas, a considerable portion of the phosphoric acid is rendered
soluble in ammonium citrate, hence the action is beneficial.”

- Bedding Begonias. — Some of the prettiest effects I have seen

with bedding Begonias were at Yeovil, where Mr. B. K. Davis has
collected a remarkably beautiful selection of plants, doubles chiefly, for the
doubles seem in respect of massing effects to be productive of more
pleasing effects than do the large-flowered singles. The plants put out
in large numbers range from 7 inches to 13 inches in height, the tallest,
Clemence Demeart, of a deep rose colour, giving a most charming effect,
and the dwarfest. Dandy, a rich deep red, about 7 inches. Cactus is a
biautiful reddish cerise, 8 inches high ; Postboy, salmon carmine,
10 inches, are but a few of many that constitute a splendid strain.
Whilst some are of continental origin, not a few are of Mr. Davis’s own
raising, the general collection of double and single large-flowered
varieties is of the best grown, the new bedding forms may well rank as
unique of their kind. — D.

- Wonders of the Cotton Plant. — The Cotton plant, which

has for so many centuries furnished a large part of the population of
the globe with clothing, seems to be almost without limit in its useful¬
ness. From the seed a valuable oil is expressed, while the husks form
an article of food for cattle in the shape of cakes. From the lint
which clings to the seed after it has passed through the “ gin ” felt is
made, while the oil extracted from the seed is applied to quite a large
number of purposes. But, according to the British Consul, Mr. Portal
of Zanzibar, Cotton seed is also capable of yielding sugar. A process,

‘ Public Opinion ” remarked recently, has been discovered for extracting
sugar from Cotton seed meal, and though the details of this process have
not been disclosed, it is said that the product obtained is of very superior
grade, being fifteen times sweeter than cane sugar and twenty times
more so than sugar made from Beet. This indicates that sweetness is
not due to cane sugar, but to some chemical.

- Snowstorms. — On Saturday morning a severe snowstorm was

experienced over a great portion of the north of England. Snow fell so
thickly that in a few minutes everything was covered to a depth of
3 or 4 inches. The weather in the district up to the present week had
been unusually fine, but bitterly cold during the last day or two. The
fall of snow lasted several hours. There has been a snowstorm in north
Westmoreland, and the Pennine Hills are covered with snow. Snow
fell in Annan early on Sunday morning. The flakes were unusually
large, and the ground was covered with snow 1 inch deep. On Saturday
soft snow fell heavily in Newcastle, and at night the weather was very
cold. There has been no rain in the neighbourhood for many weeks,
and the danger of a water famine has compelled the water company to
cut off the supply to households for about fourteen hours a day, and
pump water from the river for the use of manufactories. Dense hail¬
storms swept over parts of North Wales on Saturday, and the first snow
of the season was to be seen on Snowdon. The districts of Hitchin,
Luton, and St. Albans experienced a decided change in the weather on
Saturday morning, when a strong north-easterly gale swept across the
country. Several hailstorms prevailed at intervals, while between
Ilitchin and Luton there were occasional slight falls of snow.

VINE PROBLEMS.

Of the three questions propounded by “ Experimentalist ” on
page 268 last week. No. 2 is the most interesting to me personally from
having had considerable experience in raising Vines from seed, and I
will, therefore, deal with it first and principally. It is, unfortunately.

not stated whether the seedling in question (taking it for granted the
case is fact, and not merely theoretical) resembles in wood and foliage
the male or female parent, as in the latter case I should be inclined
to draw the conclusion that no actual cross had been made, and that
the difference in fruit was merely the result of seminal variation. The
crossing of Grapes is a delicate operation requiring very great care and
a certain amount of manual dexterity, or the flower is self-fertilised
before the foreign pollen is applied, and in the majority of cases which
I have investigated where crosses were supposed to have been effected
the rough and ready methods employed made it absolutely impossible
to say whether any real cross-fertilisation had been accomplished
or not.

Seedlings from self-fertilised flowers generally follow the parent
pretty closely in habit, though the fruit may differ considerably in
flavour and colour ; but seedlings from a genuine cross will differ
immensely, especially when the parents are not nearly related, in
support of which it may be mentioned that a number of seedlings
raised by my father from the American Strawberry Grape crossed with
the Black Hamburgh had foliage varying from less than the size of
one’s hand to one which overlapped a sheet of the “ Times.”

I have at the present time an interesting study in heredity in the
shape of seedlings from Gros Colman and Black Hamburgh crossed with
the Strawberry Grape, the offspring in both cases resembling the male
parent closely in foliage, peculiar perfume, intense flavour, and diminutive
bunch and berry, the last two points of course rendering them com¬
mercially valueless. I ascribe the prepotency of the Strawberry Grape,
even when used as a pollen parent, to the fact of its having been but
recently reclaimed from the wild state, while our older Eastern varieties
have been constitutionally weakened by long generations of cutting
propagation.

Questions 1 and 3 are matters of history, and therefore better dealt
with by older writers ; but it seems probable that if an instance of a
genuine sport could be produced it would be found to agree with the
description in Question 1, just as in the case of plants grown for their
flowers (notably Chrysanthemums) ; the sport, while differing widely
from the parent in colour of bloom cannot be distinguished from it in
habit and foliage. — Chas. E. Pearson, CMlwell Nurseries, Notts,

National Chrysanthemum Society,

The next meeting of the General Committee will take place at
Anderton’s Hotel, Fleet Street, E.C., on Monday evening, October 9th,
at seven o’clock. On the termination of the ordinary business of the
Committee Mr. Charles E. Pearson, of the Chilwell Nurseries, Notts,
will read a paper on “ How to Improve our Chrysanthemum Shows,”
and discussion will be invited.

Kingston Chrysanthemum Society.

More than usual interest attaches to the annual Exhibition of this
Society on November 7th, as there will be two champion vases competed
for, the first being restricted to three previous winners only, the second one
of course being open to all comers. Chrysanthemums seem to be grown
in the locality more largely than ever, and in spite of the season they
never looked better. A severe competition in all classes is expected.

Big Bloom Culture in France.

This is a subject that seems to have agitated the minds of French
growers not a little. While many appear to affect a sort of contempt
for the method we adopt to secure exhibition blooms there are others
who are undoubtedly desirous of giving it a practical test. Most of the
pamphlets and articles published on Chrysanthemums in France have
contained allusions to the big bloom method, and one or two cultivators
like Mr. Phatzer and Mr. Calvat have successfully put it into practice.
A Mr. Thibault of Nantes has, however, recently published a small
treatise on the subject, borrowed principally from Mr. Edwin Molyneux’s
well-known book on “ Chrysanthemums and their Culture.” It is
illustrated with several reproductions from Mr. Molyneux’s excellent
little volume, which appears to have formed the basis of more than one
continental work on the popular autumn flower.

Chrysanthemum Bud Mite.

Although the Chrysanthemum sprays dispatched by your corre¬
spondent, “ G. B. A.,” from Scotland on September 8th did not reach
me until the evening of the 11th, they were quite fresh, clean, and un¬
damaged by the post office punches. This condition is absolutely

September 28, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

291

essential for a satisfactory examination of specimens. The three sprays
were packed in damp clean moss in a stout cardboard box ; growth
sturdy, leaves deep green, glossy, thick, leathery, and without speck or
blemish. The buds crowning the three sprays, one to each, appeared
small (for the time of year), but normal, and had apparently nothing
the matter with them. “These buds were taken early, and have
remained in nearly the same state for about six weeks,” stated
“ G. B. A.,” also that they were taken from a plant of Wm. Holmes.

Denuding a spray of its leaves it had the appearance shown at A
(fig. 41), natural size. The side buds (a) had been taken off six weeks
ago, leaving the crown bud (5) only. This bud was slightly tinged at
the apex (c) with brown. Removing the bud scales, the inner portion

to upset its equanimity. It will be noticed that there are no “ buds ”■
(or eggs, as they are sometimes called), nor were any discovered in the
other parts of the dissected Chrysanthemum bud ; in fact, gemmation
had ceased, evidently some time ago, and only a few “ bud ” sacs were
found. But in the older and unbrowsed erineum and suspended in it I
found what I take to be the transformation stage of the four-legged
(larva) mite into the six-legged. This is shown at G, and the empty
case from which the six-legged mite emerges is represented at H. The
six-legged mite itself was not found, but to assist others to recognise it
it is shown at I. It is the female form — a most active and interesting
creature.

The mite is not by any means uncommon, though hitherto unnamed

or embryonic flower was the size shown in vertical section at B, and in
transverse section in C. Nothing was manifestly wrong with the bud
as observable by the naked eye. Subjecting the section B to an ordinary
pocket magnifier it had the appearance represented in D. Still no trace
of any parasite was to be found, but the brownness at the apex pourtrayed
in black («Z) was seen to extend down the flower bud and to the base of
the embryonic petals (e). Taking this portion only of the section and
subjecting it to a lens of moderate magnifying power it appeared as
shown in E ; petals with hairs or erineum ; g, mite ; A, “ bud eye ; ”
i i, cases from which the parthenogenetic mites emerge. Cutting a
microscopic section — that is, a thin slice with the aid of a lens, and
placing it on a glass slide and examining it with a powerful lens, two
mites were seen as shown in F at j j. They are full grown — the last
of the parthenogenetic series, nearly l-200th of an inch in length and
about l-900th of an inch in breadth at the widest part. The full scope of
the microscope on the section is given to show that there is no
erineum on the right hand side, where the mite is full fed,
torpid, and beginning to thicken, but that on the left hand side was
active amongst the erineum, moving about as if nothing had occurred

and undescribed. I propose, therefore, to name it Phytoptus chrys-
anthemi, the Chrysanthemum bud mite. It is unquestionably a native
species, found in the buds of Chrysanthemum Leucanthemum or Leucan-
themum maximum, the whole of the flower buds of this plant often being
what is termed “ deaf.” In some gardens the plants flower profusely, in
others only few flowers are produced, though the plants are perfectly
healthy and strong growing. Some of the flowers are deformed, perhaps*
the florets only develop on one side, because the mites destroy the
buds.

It also proves disastrous sometimes to Centaurea montana buds, they
also being occasionally flowerless ; but it is chiefly confined to the
Chrysanthemum family — in fact, it is doubtful if the species are iden¬
tical. But there is no question about the Chrysanthemum mite of our
gardens and fields attacking the buds of Chrysanthemums. It generally
fastens on the crown buds, the female pushing her ovipositor into the
bud from the apex and right down to what would be the eye of tho
flower, and there deposits her eggs. They are imbedded in the living sub¬
stance, and erineum is produced on what would be the petals of the flower.
These eggs hatch out in a few days ; but the mites are enclosed, and in

292

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[ September 28, 1893.

wrowin" they form somewhat large tubes, not unlike erineum, but
stouter, shorter, and blunt-ended, and from these the mites emerge.
The tubes are easily seen, and being hairy on the outside are readily
distinguished from the erineum, which is not hairy on the surfaces.
The mites at once commence depositing “ buds,” which are almost as
much in diameter as the four-legged mites which shed them. These
“ buds” produce more four-legged mites, and all, or such as survive —
for they have many enemies when they become full fed — pass from this
into the six and eight-legged stages, and it is the four-legged mites that
do all the mischief ; or rather they do the work mapped out for them
by the perfect mite, which deposits its eggs where the succeeding gene¬
ration will find the needful food ready for its sustenance.

What becomes of the mites after they leave the Chrysanthemum buds
I do not know, but this I do know, they will return at the appointed
time of breeding and deposit eggs in the flower buds then formed. This
is seldom deferred beyond July, and as regards Chrysanthemums is
usually restricted to the king or crown buds, though the side buds are
occasionally infected. There is one peculiarity about this mite which
deserves notice, it does not, like other bud mites, cause the buds attacked
to become abnormally large, and their presence cannot be detected by
any external sign until the mischief is done — that is by the buds not
swelling as they ought.

The only thing likely to be of any use is to syringe the plants with
bisulphide of calcium (see page 223), 1 pint to 12 gallons of water,
immediately before or directly the Chrysauthemum buds appear, and
repeat occasionally to August. Dusting with tobacco powder would
also act as a preventive. The only remedy is to cut off the early
crown buds and rely on side buds, which is very plainly set forth in
“ Chrysanthemums and their Culture,” by Mr. B. Molyneux ; but this
has no regard to mites, only the practice cuts short their career, as the
four-legged mites must perish in the decapitated buds, and they certainly
cannot leave them and enter others. The best thing is to make sure
and burn every crown bud removed, also cut off every “deaf” bad
without delay and serve it the same.

Some people like the large white Daisies, Chrysanthemum Leucan-
themum maximum. When the plants have the buds “ deaf ” — that is,
cease to swell and develop flowers, cut off all such and burn them.
Pursue this with all the buds appearing in a similar condition, and it
will be found that the plants will produce flowers as well as leaves. —
G. Abbey.

Early FLOWEEiNa Chrysanthemums.

In my former note I am afraid I did not make my meaning clear,
for 1 do not want to see better things than Chrysanthemums at a show
where they are supposed to form a leading feature. It was solely for
the purpose of seeing the display of early Chrysanthemums that I went
to the Aquarium, but they were unquestionably far less attractive than
in previous years. The fault, if there be one, scarcely lies with the
N.C.S., but rather with those who have sung the praises of the early
section. So much of late years has been said and written about this
new race and the value of them for outdoor decoration, and I know not
what else beside, that any true lover of the Chrysanthemum must have
shared my feelings of disappointment at the very few varieties of
modern introduction that were staged on the occasion of a show where
one naturally expects to see a first-class assortment of the best new
flowers.

From what I know of the Chrysanthemum circle I should say there
is a very small percentage of the members of the National Society who
are ardent admirers of early varieties, and I question whether they are
wanted. The November Chrysanthemum makes itself beloved on its
own merits, the early kinds appear to require being subsidized. If that
be so they are not wanted, and the sooner they cease to exist the better.
This appears to me to be the more strongly manifest when such dull,
colourless blooms are placed in striking contrast with Dahlias and
Gladioli. No flower can hope to retain its hold on the public if it has
to be propped up with pecuniary assistance ; it must assert its own
inherent value, it must be loved for itself alone, for its form, its colour,
its beauty, and usefulness. Herein lies the difference between the
early and the November Chrysanthemums, the latter having all the
qualities that appeal to the affections of the flower loving community,
chief of all perhaps being its seasonableness. At the time of year when
it comes to us in all its fulness it is indeed a thing of beauty, if not a
joy for ever, and has many thousands of admirers. — P.

EASTERN LILIES.

The Duchess of Sutherland, who is an earnest amateur horticul¬
turist, writes me to say that the Japanese, Indian, and Levantine Lilies
which she planted at my suggestion at Trentham last winter have proved
a gratifying success, and that Her Grace intends to give them a trial
at Dunrobin Castle, Sutherland, where she is at present residing. Among
those which have succeeded admirably at Trentham, where I saw them
recently, are Liliums auratum, longiflorum, speciosum, Kraetzeri,
Wallacei, Kramerianum or “ Krameri,” and giganteum cordifolium, of
which the last mentioned, the emperor of Liliums, is grown under glass,
though this is not requisite to ensure its success. Lilies have been at
least three weeks earlier than usual this year, but, though in many
instances they flowered splendidly, they did not grow to their average
dimensions for want of rain.

In my own garden L. davuricum, also called umbellatum, flowered

in May; the beautiful Madonna Lily, Lilium candidum, in June;
longiflorum and giganteum early in July, closely followed by the
majestic auratums, the later flowering varieties of which have now the
harmonious companionship of the exquisitely formed and delicately
fragrant Lilium speciosum. The cultivator of Eastern Lillies is, mani¬
festly, to be envied ; for if even moderately successful he may have
from the period of the Narcissus to that of the latest autumnal Chrysan¬
themum one long, continuous, and infinitely varied bloom. Their
reign is, therefore, as impressive in its duration as that of the Rose.
The infamous sparrow has, in my garden, occasionally attacked the
Gclden-rayed Japanese Lily, and destroyed its noble buds when pre¬
paring to expand, but that I may add was before the adjoining corn fields
were ready for his always unwelcome incursions, since which period he
has left my Liliums alone. — David R. Williamson.

Liliums from Colchester.

We send Lily blooms mostly from plants growing out of doors, viz.,
L. speciosum Kraetzeri, L. s. Melpomene, L. s. macrantha, and L. tigri-
num Fortune!. Owing to the drought Lilies have had a bad time, the
flow'er spikes are short and the substance of the blooms thin where
grown out of doors ; but as regards pot culture where moisture has
been freely given it is quite different, and the blooms and spikes this
year are very good. We also have included bloom of Lilium neilgherrense
and L. Henryi. The former Lily has flowered with us very freely
this year, but requires the aid of glass both to start it and finish
its growth. Imported bulbs arriving in a shrivelled, poor condition
late in the spring, plumped up rapidly, and to our surprise grew
to the flowering stage much better than could have been expected,
showing that it is really a very vigorous Lily under proper treatment ;
its scent is peculiarly like honey. L. Henryi has been grown by
us both in pots out of doors and in the open ground. It is a grand
grower. We received our bulbs from China in the middle of March
last ; they soon began to stir, the growths appeared some six weeks later
than those established at Kew, and are now in full flower, those at Kew
being over some six weeks since. It has evidently a hardy constitution,
and roots very freely, has dark green foliage and numerous flowers. It
is from these points and from its novel colour a grand Lily for the
hybridiser. Two points about this new form seem not to have been
brought forward — its broad beautiful dark green central axis, translucent
like deep sea water; second, the number of large processes of an
orange yellow colour which fringe these green axes. It is a beautiful
flower for ladies to wear, specially for those of a dark complexion, or a
couple of blooms well backed by the foliage of the scented-leaved
Pelargoniums are very decorative in a room. We feel convinced that
this Lily will become a great favourite with the fair sex.

We are bound to express our surprise on reading the paragraph on
page 265 reflecting on ourselves in copying your illustration without
permission. So far from that being correct, we purchased the block
from your office, and as no stipulation was made as to the use to which
it might be put we thought, and still think, we had a perfect right to
use the block in our catalogue. — Wallace «fc Co.

[The flowers referred to were beautiful. Many of the buds
expanded on being placed in water, and others are still opening, showing
the great value of Liliums as cut flowers for decorative purposes. In
reference to the illustration Messrs. Wallace & Co. had the undoubted
right, under the circumstances, to use the block in their catalogue.
Had we known they had purchased it the paragraph would not have
been written, and it may now be considered as withdrawn. The block
was sold in the publishing department without the fact being made
known to the Editor — a purely accidental omission that occurred
during a moment of pressure in business. Our rule is only to supply
blocks to the owners or exhibitors of the flowers illustrated, and it is
not departed from except by special arrangement equitable to all
parties concerned in their reproduction.]

GRAPES SHANKING.

Mr. Richardson’s article on this subject (page 238, September 14th)
is in some respects a remarkable one.

1, He says about a dozen bunches left unthinned in 1892 had not
a shanked berry in them. Nothing is said about the variety left
unthinned, nor anything stated as to the condition of the thinned
bunches in that year ; but it is assumed that his subsequent statement
— namely, “ In previous years there was not a bunch but was more or
less affected by the disease ” applies to the thinned bunches in 1892.
This being so, it is clear that the thinning was considered in 1892 to be
the cause of the shanking, hence the decision to leave the whole crop
unthinned in 1893.

2, In anticipation of the prospective heavy erop in 1893 measures
were taken in advance for its support. A heavy dressing of fresh cow
manure was given to the borders in the early part of November.
Inside it could only benefit to the extent of the washings from it
by artificial watering, Outside there would be washings by rains,
and the consequent enrichment of the soil. The removal of the
November dressing of cow manure in February, and the supply
of another dressing then, left till the first week in May, is a
method of enriching the soil with one of the most soapy, close,
and retentive of manures in the winter season. It is an old and
bad practice.

3, The feeding twice a week with the undiluted drainings of the

September 28, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

293

cowshed from the first week in May until the Grapes began colouring,
could not have other than a good effect, especially as the season of 1893
has been the hottest and driest on record. Your correspondent was singu¬
larly fortunate in having such an abundant supply of cowshed drainings
at a time when most cows were at grass and the tanks empty. The applica¬
tions appear to have suited the Vines admirably under the conditions
prevailing in 1893 — a broiling sun, a parched soil, and an arid atmo¬
sphere ; for the result was “ A magnificent crop of good bunches
with medium sized berries (no puny stoneless ones), excellent in flavour,
but as might be expected, deficient in colour.”

“Poverty,” says Mr. Richardson, “is the cause of shanking in
Grapes.’' Mr. Barron in “ Vines and Vine Culture,” gives overcropping
as the “ cause of shanking to a very serious extent,” and Mr. Richardson’s
Grapes were so plentiful that they were deficient in colour. With the
Grapes unthinned there is more danger of poverty than when they are
thinned. Of course Mr. Richardson means poverty of soil, but
Mr. Barron includes “ rich materials ” as one of the causes of shanking.
Though a believer in “ muck,” I am sorry to say that where it is most
used shanking is most rampant, and Mr. Richarson’s experiment only
proves the importance of feeding the Vines when the greatest strain is
put upon them by the crops.

As to the cause of shanking I must say that it has so far baffled both
cultivators and scientists. The alleged causes are as opposed to each
other as the poles of the earth, that is, shanking occurs in Grapes under
conditions diametrically opposite to the assumed cause. Let us notice a
few of them.

Overcropping the I ines. — Mr. Richardson has shown that Vines with
the Grapes unthinned, and a crop so heavy as not to colour well,
there was less shanking than when the berries were thinned, and the
seeds much less in number. In a vinery where the Vines are seen
carrying a crop of Black Hamburgh Grapes an black as jet, and a weight
of fruit equal to 1 lb. per foot run of rod, scarcely a shanked berry is to
be found, but in one adjoining, and with the Vines carrying a bunch of
Grapes here and there, not only small branchlets, but whole shoulders,
and in some cases whole bunches have to be cut away because the
Grapes are shanked.

WeaJinees. — This must be distinguished from poorness of soil, for
Vines against houses, and with the bunches unthinned, like Mr.
Richardson’s, often produce enormous crops of Currant-like unshanked
Grapes, and this is allowed to go on until the Vines become so exhausted
as to yield nothing but leaves and tendrils. Such Vines with the shoots
properly thinned and pruned, also fed at the roots with house slops,
would bear excellent fruit if the bunches and berries were duly thinned.
But this is not the weakness alluded to as conducive of shanking, for
what is meant is a puny condition of the Vines resulting from early
forcing or heavy cropping in consecutive years, even where the borders
are rich, yet we have growths tendril like and small bunches with a
large percentage of shanked berries. Border renovation, a year’s restand
freer growth will generally insure better crops. But the opposite of
weakness — that is, grossness, or Vines with soft long-jointed shoots,
leaves like Rhubarb, and lank loose bunches, is also given as one of the
causes of shanked berries, and the remedy propounded is border renova¬
tion,

^Restriction. — Too close stopping or poverty of foliage and conse-
quentry indiffereot root action is presumed to favour the dwindling of the
bunches and cause the berries to shank. The remedy for this is alleged
to consist in allowing the Vines to make more growth and to prune less
closely. Vines, however, on the extension system often go wrong — that
is, they produce Grapes that shank in some cases to the extent of one-
third of the crop. The preventive for shanking in this case is assumed
to be found in pinching. This shows the falsity of extremes.

Checks to Groioth. — One of these, prejudged to promote shanking,
is to remove a large quantity of foliage at a time and at distant intervals.
This, of course, is a bad practice ; but the fact remains that at the oppo¬
site pole is seen Vines that have never had removed from them more
growths than can be carried away at one time from a large vinery in the
attendant’s apron, with a number of red sour berries in the otherwise
well finished bunches when the Grapes are ripe. It is difficult to under¬
stand why outdoor Vines with the shoots cut back considerably just
before the Grapes commence ripening have few shanked berries, while
Vines so treated under glass have a large number of shanked Grapes.

Chills. — Allowing the temperature to rise considerably in a vinery
and then admit air so as to reduce it several degrees is said to produce
rust on tender Grapes and shanking when they ought to ripen. The
other side of the question is, that however careful the cultivator may be
about ventilation, the Grapes often shank badly.

Itich Borders. — When the carcases of animals were buried in Vine
borders the Grapes were said to have been wonderfully fine in some
cases and in others that the Vines absolutely refused to grow. About
shanking under such conditions the records are mute, and I have no
experience. Nevertheless rich borders are alleged to induce shanking in
Grapes, but there is a difference as regards richness in Vine borders.
Some are composed of material which settles into a close soapy mass,
and the Grapes produced by the Vines planted therein sometimes shank
in the stems of the bunches. Others are formed of rich material, with
enough gritty and calcareous substances to render them porous and
sweet, yet the Grapes borne by healthy Vines growing in them are
shanked more or less. Mr. Richardson tells us that the cause of shank¬
ing is poverty of soil. Grapes certainly shank when the Vines are
grown in poor soil, perhaps one berry in a thousand as compared with
those growing in rich soil.

Excessive Dryness at the Roots. — Mr. Barron gives this as paralysing
to the young roots and a cause of shanking, for deluging with water
afterwards destroys the roots. I presume every gardener has a copy'of
Vines and Vine Culture, if not, he ought to procure one, for the
illustrations of the Grapts — almost every variety — certainly all worth
growing, with the descriptions, are worth double the money (Ss.). But
the fact remains that Vines receiving 72 inches of water or equal to that
of rainfall, have the berries shanked ten times worse than those of Vines
growing in a gravelly soil receiving only 24 inches of rain direct from
the clouds.

Sodden and Sour Snl. — Whether the Vines are in pots or planted in
borders this condition at the roots results in shanking in the Grapes.
There is no question about that, nor is there any of Grapes also shanking
when the roots of the Vines are in the most favourable circumstances as
regards soil sanitation. It is a matter of degree, for it is not difficult to
find shanked berries in the best examples of certain varieties, to wit
Frontignans, Black Muscat, Muscat of Alexandria, and even in Black
Hamburgh.

Cold Borders. — Forty years ago there were ten outside Vice borders
to one even partly within the houses. There was no more shanking in
those days than at the present time. Mr. Barron mentions cold sub¬
soils, of course, with the roots in them, as a source of shanking, and it is
quite true, nevertheless he recommends outside borders (and I agree
with him) for summer Grapes ; but I have seen Grapes ripe in March
on Vines over Pines with the roots entirely in an outside border, and
covered with a coating of the soapiest manure. It would have delighted
Mr. Richardson to have seen it, for there were only “ a few shanked
berries here and there.” That is one side of the picture, the other is
Muscat of Alexandria Grapes shanking badly when the roots of the
Vines are confined to inside borders. Mr. Richardson has only a few
shanked berries and no puny stoneless ones with the roots of the Vines
partly in and partly outside the house. The case is a hopeless one —
Grapes will shank.

Bad Management. — This includes errors in ventilation, syringing,
watering, temperature, disbudding, stopping, thinning, cropping, feeding,
and general routine, one and all of which may culminate in shanking.
Unfortunately Grapes shank under the best treatment.

Fungal and Insect Attacks. — Mildew infesting the growths and
berries, and the destruction of the foliage by red spider, also scale and
mealy bug, are said to induce shanking in Grapes. They may ; the
facts are as positive in the opposite direction, for I have seen outdoor
Grapes white with mildew in June with Grapes as black as jet and
covered with a blue bloom in September, except where rusted by the
sulphur in destroying the mildew. A similar thing occurred in a
house, the Grapes ripening but much rusted. There was nothing
remarkable in either case as regards shanking. Grapes may ripen off
red, and even shrivel when red spider has exhausted the foliage; even
scorched Vines shank less, if anything, than Vines do in some cases with
flimsy foliage, and scale and mealy bug in no way contribute to shanking.
I have seen whole houses of Grapes, every bunch of which had to be
syringed before sending the Grapes to table ; but the scissors had not to
be employed to cut out red, sour, shanked berries.

Outdoor Grapes. — These are found to shank less than the same
varieties indoors ; yet shanked berries are found both on thinned and
unthinned bunches, on heavily cropped Vines and on those carrying
only a few bunches. It is hardly necessary to say that shanked Grapes
are common on Vines under glass.

Time. — Shanking is generally confined to the period when the Grapes
begin changing colour. Sometimes it is only a berry or two, in extreme
cases it is a whole bunch ; generally one or more of the branchlets or
shoulders, or parts of them that shank. One Vine has few, its neighbour
of the same variety has many shanked berries ; some are red and sour,
others are black and not ill-flavoured. It is similar with white Grapes.
Some of the shanked berries shrivel, remain green, and are ill-favoured,
while some retain their plumpness, attain a high colour, and are
exquisitely flavoured, as found on some bunches of Muscat of Alexandria
before me. It is not a question as to when the shanking occurs, for it
does so both before and after the Grapes are ripe, also after they have
been cut, bottled, and placed in the Grape room.

Thirteen causes of shanking have been given, and still the real cause
of the evil is as great a mystery as ever. All I know about shanking is
that, like every other disease, it is induced by certain favouring climatic,
sanitary, and cultural conditions. This being so, it follows that it is to
a great extent prcventible by careful cultivation. Some varieties being
more subject to it than others may be rejected, as is recommended in
the case of Apples and Pears to avoid canker ; but this is an admission
of being dead beat, and is analogous to killing a whole herd of cattle
because one or two are afflicted with anthrax. Who can dispense with
Black Hamburgh and Muscat of Alexandria ? Both are at the head of
their classes in quality and in liability to shanking, but they have been
to a great extent superseded by the thick-skinned varieties, less subject
to the evil. Still the varieties first named are grown in proper structures,
well provided with means for ventilation and heating, well constructed
borders of sound material, and good cultivation all round, without many
shanked berrie s.

Notwithstanding all that has been advanced in support of shanking
being a constitutional and heredital disease, the fact remains that it is
of an organic nature, and as such has its rise in the morbidity of the
subject. That, however, cannot give rise to any living organism ; it is
caused by and owes its origin to a micro-organism, which, like all life,
is dependent for its existence on a parental germ. — G. Abbey.

291

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 28, 1893,

THE ASHFORD YINERIES, FORDINGBRIDGE.

Just as the seeing of a place that has a reputation, and yet is
indifferently cared for, brings the visitor disappointment, so does a visit
to a place where little is looked for and much that is good found afford
exceeding satisfaction. I have been into many market-growing estab¬
lishments about London, and have usually found that everything about
them was made very secondary to tidiness and general excellence ;
consequently when recently I called at the Fordingbridge Vineries 1
looked for nothing better, but was exceedingly pleased to find a large
number of houses in perfect condition, the whole place neat and
clean, and the culture of Vines, Tomatoes, and Chrysanthemums,
for these are just now the chief objects of culture, of the very best.
Perhaps some of this is due to the fact that Mr. Stephen Castle, who is
the Manager, and has had full control for several years, is at once a
modest man, who boasts nothing, has some garden taste as well as much
skill, and is certainly a capital cultivator. It may seem odd that what
is a small town of such excellent houses should be dropped down in so
remote a part of the country. The vineries are the property of a well
known Jersey firm, Messrs. A. & J. Quartier, who also have an extensive
corn business at Fordingbridge. On the other hand, it would seem as if soil
and situation were in these days of far more consequence than place and
distance, for the railways render locality of small moment, and it seems
as easy, as is found in practice, to send products to London, Manchester,
or Edinburgh, as to Bournemouth, Plymouth, or Exeter. The vineries
are close to the railway station, and in that respect, whether in
getting in coal, for Mr. Castle believes only in anthracite, or for sending
away produce, is most convenient.

Looked at from the elevated railway a little towards Wimborne the
entire body of glass is presented in the form of a large triangle, the
acute angular point being closest to the spectator, whilst in the remote
background are Mr, Castle’s and some of his assistants’ residences. Just
by these there is yet space to erect another long, broad span house,
and then in a meadow below there is reserved space for the addition of
some ten or twelve more large houses, and these no doubt will be
erected in a few years. For the purpose of examining the contents of
these structures we start from the manager’s house, and enter a huge lean-
to that fronts to the north-east of the other houses. This is 200 feet by
18 feet, and is in three equal divisions. The first two are planted with
Gros Colman, the end one of which is the latest. Here at the time of
my visit the berries were just showing a little colour, whilst in the
next division the colouring was much more advanced. These represent
the latest of the five market Grapes grown. The Vines are planted close
to the front, and at only 2 feet apart. There are twenty-three Vines in
the first division and thirty in the second, a portion of the first being
otherwise occupied. Every Vine is carrying a tremendously heavy crop
of good sized bunches, and the berries when ripe will be fully up to the
usual dimensions. Each rod is expected to give 40 lbs. of Grapes ; whilst
those in the first division will be cut in January, those in the other will
be cleared by Christmas, The third division is planted with Black
Alicante, and there are twenty-nine rods. Here, too, there is a great
crop, although not the same weight as in the other divisions. The
Grapes are, however, nearly finished, and will be excellent in every
respect, the average weight per rod being rather over 30 lbs.

It is worth noting that for these Vines, as indeed all over the place,
no very special preparation has been made. The borders consist of the
ordinary soil deeply trenched, and it’is naturally drained. It is very
firm, and seems to have very enduring nature — indeed, it must have
good natural properties to carry such crops of Grapes year after year.
There is very little of top-dressing with animal manure, as it does not
seem to be too accessible ; about 3 feet wide, close to the Vines, alone
is thinly dressed. The chief reliance seems to be on the patent silicate
manure, which Mr. Castle largely uses for top-dressing, and which he
regards as most valuable for Vines. I may mention here that for all
his Muscat Vines he adds a moderate proportion of sand to the borders,
and also gives occasional dressings of it, as well as of the manure.

The next house, running at a slight angle from the one described, is
a fine span 210 feet long and 30 feet wide. This, too, is in three divisions
and was planted with Vines so recently as 1891. In the first division
on the north side twenty-two Alicantes are planted 3 feet apart, each
one carrying from ten to twelve well-coloured bunches. On the
south side are the same number of Gros Colman, each one heavily
fruited. Then on either side of the centre walk, and at 6 teet apart,
there are planted on the south side Alicantes, and on the other Gros
Colman, so that some of each sort are on each side of the house. These
are trained as vertical cordons, each carrying on an average twelve to
fourteen bunches, and not less than 20 lbs. weight. Tomatoes in pots
are run up between the Vines. The second division is planted exclu¬
sively with Muscats, but the crop had been cut. Into the border four
loads of sand had been worked. Mr. Castle speaks very highly of the
Canon Hall Muscat of which there are several Vines, specially liking
its full berries, stout dark leafage and wood and general productiveness.

The third and lower division is planted entirely with Gros Colman,
twenty-four on each side, and twenty-four down the centre for erect
training, making seventy-two in all. The berries on the north side have
much the best colour because the sun caught them obliquely through
the glass above the Vines on the opposite side. This fact shows in
getting colour into this Grape the importance of ample sunlight. This
division was planted towards the end of May, 1891, each Vine now
carrying a heavy crop up some 6 feet of rod.

t Close to the end of this fine vinery commences the smaller houses of

the large triangle of glass. Here is a block of three, each 12 feet wide
respectively, of 30, 40, and 50 feet long. The Vines in the first house
are Black Hamburghs, planted 3 feet apart, and are two years estab¬
lished. They run to the apex on each side, and have given a good
crop. The borders are 5 feet wide, and only 9 inches deep, as being
built for Cucumbers, pipes run along beneath. The second house is
planted partly with Hamburghs, partly Gros Maroc, in the same way,
but the crop has been cut. The third house is planted with Muscat of
Alexandria ; the return pipe in the chamber beneath the border being
found most helpful in finishing the berries. The Vines here are three
years planted, and carry a fine crop. Then follow three span houses,
each 18 feet wide, and respectively 70, 80, and 90 feet long. The centre
gutters of these rest on brick piers, so that the houses are all, so far,
open one to the other. The plan, however, is productive of cold
draughts, and is not desirable. One range of pipes is made partly to
heat two houses. The first house is full of Gros Colman, chiefly planted
four years, rods about 9 feet long and 3 feet apart, carrying a heavy
crop. A few Muscats planted by mistake are to be worked with Gros
Maroc, for a few Vines of that variety do remarkably well here, and in
all cases the soil seems to impart excellent flavour to the fruit, perhaps
due to some extent to absence of gross feeding. In the second house
the Vines are chiefly Alicantes, the rods laden with fine bunches, and
richly coloured. In the third house Muscat of Alexandria and Gros
Colman are planted alternately. The greater part of the crop here, also
a very fine one, has been cut.

Next comes a block of houses 20 feet wide, ranging in length from
120 to 160 feet. The first house is planted on the west side with Muscat
of Alexandria and Gros Colman alternately, all the other side being
the latter sort only. The Vines are four years old, and the crop is indeed
a splendid one, presenting a grand sight. The Grapes are cut during
November and December. The next house is planted entirely with Gros
Colman, two years old, fruiting about 7 feet lengths, each rod having
from nine to eleven bunches. There are in this house 100 Vines at
3 feet apart. In the third house of this group Black Hamburgh Vines
have been planted recently for early forcing. Tomatoes otherwise fill
the house, these being planted crosswise in rows 3 feet apart and are
vertically trained. The crop has been a heavy one, and fruit will be fur¬
nished if desired till the end of October. The chief varieties are Hack-
wood Park, Sutton’s Perfection, Challenger, and Webb’s Regina, one of
the larger Apple-shaned sorts, of which Mr. Castle speaks in the highest
terms. The fourth house is also recently planted with Black Hamburghs,
and in it immense numbers of Tomato plants have been grown.

Lastly is a huge house, 34 feet wide by 160 feet, the first division
of which was planted last spring with Peach and Nectarine trees. The
second and third divisions were planted with Gros Maroc last April,
and will soon be in a productive condition. This house, too, has been
planted with Tomatoes, and amongst them are Conference, Ham Green
Favourite, and Vick’s Criterion. This completes the record of the glass
houses at the Ashford Vineries, and presents a total length of 1530 feet —
a goodly area of glass to be met with so far from London. Mr. Castle
has long been known by his writings, and very often by the fine
examples he has shown, as an authority on Grape culture, and this
unbiassed record of what I have seen of his work will, I am sure, carry
conviction that he is fully entitled to all the honour of such a position.
—A. D.

LONDON TREES.

The following correspondence regarding London trees appeared
recently in The Times ; — _

Before parting with the memorable summertide of 1893, it may not
be profitless to observe its effect upon trees, so essential to the beauty
and health of the metropolis. They afford the one redeeming feature to
an otherwise ugly town. Some years ago I brought upon myself a good
deal of adverse criticism by quoting Leigh Hunt’s saying that it was
hard to find a single street in London from some part of which a tree
was not visible. I only know of two — viz., Savile Row and a street
parallel with Berners Street.

London trees have two adverse influences to resist — coal smoke and
heat reflected from miles of brick and stonework. The effect of the
latter is so clearly marked upon several species at the present moment
that the lesson ought not to be neglected by the Office of Works and by
those in charge of squares and gardens, for, although the heat has been
greatly excessive this year, trees in a town are always exposed to greater
summer heat than those in the country.

The trees which have suffered most are one native species — -the Wych
Elm, and two exotic species — the Horse Chestnut and the Lime. The
condition in which these are now and have been for some weeks past
ought to convince us of their unsuitability for urban planting. Many
of them are entirely leafless ; others retain but a sere remnant of summer
clothing.

The Plane, for which we shall soon have to borrow the title of a
humbler green thing and call it “ London Pride,” has stood the trial
fairly well, for, although it has shed half its leaves, the other half
remain and are still fresh and verdant. By a popular mistake this tree
is called the Western or Occidental Plane. It is not so, but an Eastern
European and Asiatic species (Platanus acerifolius), and may be dis¬
tinguished from the American P. occidentalis by bearing two or more
s.ed vessels on the fruitstalk instead of one.

Aspens and Poplars have suffered not at all, and should be more

September 28, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDE NEIL

296

largely planted in London. By a peculiar formation of the leafstalk,
which is flattened midway, they are specially provided with a mechanical
means of protection against heat. The leaves hang vertically, and
possess glands on both surfaces, whereas Oak, Beech, Chestnut, &c., have
glands only on the under surface.

Ailantus glandulosa, the Tree of the Gods, is in splendid foliage, and,
if more care were taken to keep it in shape in its early years, would soon
prove one of the surest ornaments of our streets.

But the tree to which I wish to call special attention as invaluable
for towns is what is commonly called the Acacia. It is not an Acacia at
all, being of the Pea flower tribe ; its scientific name is Robinia pseudo-
Acacia. Let anyone compare the fine specimen standing at the corner
of Lord Sefton’s house in Belgrave Square, or a group of young ones in
the Green Park, near the Wellington Arch, with trees of other kinds
around, and he cannot fail to recognise in this species one which, for
beauty of form or freshness of verdure, cannot be excelled for planting
in towns. Ulmus campestris, called the English Elm because it is not
English, has kept its foliage fairly well, but it is dull and discoloured. —
Heebeet Maxwell.

SiE Heebeet Maxwell does well in calling attention to the
Ailantus glandulosa in his remarks on London trees. It is one of the
very best trees for the soil and climate of London, and will in time
grow to the height of 40 feet or 50 feet. So vigorous is the growth in a
young state that it will often make a shoot of 6 feet in a single year.
The leaves are large and handsome, 3 feet or more in length, with a thick
midrib, on each side of which are ranged in pairs some twenty or thirty
lance-shaped leaflets. I have a specimen of this tree in my garden
nearly 50 feet high, which is the admiration of everyone who sees it.
When the late Major M'Kenzie was about to plant the trees on the
Thames Embankment I remember discussing with him the merits of
this tree for that position. It was, however, decided, properly I think,
that the beautiful but massive foliage would be torn and disfigured by
the strong currents of wind often prevalent there. In fairly sheltered
positions no tree is handsomer or more appropriate for cities and large
towns, as it is very hardy and will grow anywhere. Many trees which
flourished in London some thirty or more years ago no longer thrive
there, owing to the increased volumes of smoke and various noxious
gases ; but there are still many trees and shrubs, which, owing I believe
principally to the structure of their leaves, seem to set these influences
at defiance, and the Ailantus is one of the most valuable of them. Planes,
Poplars, and Robinias (the latter usually called Acacias) are proved
London trees, and there are many varieties of each far preferable to the
old-fashioned and beautiful but unsuitable English and foreign trees
still injudiciously planted. — William Paul, Waltham Cross, Herts.

May I add a word of caution to Sir Herbert Maxwell’s praise of the
Ailantus as a London tree ? The foliage has all the beauty and
endurance he claims ; but, to use the words of an American authority,
Mr. F. B. Hough, “ the male flowers have a nauseating odour that
renders this tree undesirable for cultivation near dwellings.”

I think I am right in adding that not many years since most of the
Ailantus trees in New York were grubbed up on account of this
offensive character. It is a tree also to be handled with care on account
of the acrid juice of its bark, which has been known to caused poisoned
hands among woodmen and gardeners. — J. L. P., Marlborough,

TKIDAX BICOLOR ROSEA.

A NOETHEEN correspondent sends us a few blooms of this pretty
late flowering plant, and remarks that the yellow-flowered Composite
are so numerous in late summer and autumn that it is quite a relief to
obtain any additions to the family in which the flower heads are of
some other tint. We think so too, and the plant to which attention is
called is by no means familiar in gardens. When in bloom it is very
attractive, and is worthy of a place with other border plants. As will
be seen by referring to the illustration (fig. 42), the flower heads are of
moderate size' and neat shape, white with a strong suffusion of deep
clear rose — a peculiarly bright and pleasing tint. They are freely
produced. The plant is compact, of moderate height, and of easy
culture.

APPLES AND PEARS at WOODHALL, WEST NORFOLK.

“ WoODHALL,” a very ancient mansion, is said by Kelly in his
Directory of Norfolk to have been “ formerly one of the seats of the
Abbots of Ramsey, to whom the estate belonged before the dissolution
of the Monastery in 1537.” It is now the property of Major Stocks,
D.L. and J.P., by whom it has been much enlarged and in every way
greatly improved. I do not purpose, however, now to take up space in
the Journal by a description of this fine old place other than as it relates
to the above-named fruits.

Mr. Lewendon, the gardener, is an experienced and successful fruit
cultivator, both outdoors and under glass. Heavy crops of Grapes ol
the finest quality and finish. Peach and Necfarine trees in splendid con¬
dition, perfectly clean with fine foliage, well ripened wood on triple
buds boldly dereloped at nearly every leaf, show his skill in growing
fruits under glass ; but this skill is perhaps still more strikingly shown

outside by trained trees on walls, bush and pyramid trees in gardens, and
free standards in the orchard. All alike are, or have been, carrying fine
crops of fruit of the largest size and finest quality.

Here may be seen carried out most effectually the rational methods
of pruning advocated by many horticultural writers and lecturers — viz.,
no lopping off of large limbs (mutilating, not pruning), but judicious

FIG. 42.— TEIDAX BICOLOE EOSEA.

thinning out of the smaller branches annually through all the free
orchard trees, so as to admit a full amount of light and air freely through
all their parts. This practice, combined with due attention to cleaning the
trees annually by lime dressings in the winter and feeding their roots as
required, results in the good supply of fruit of the finest quality. Some
horizontal trained Pear trees, covering one side of a long range of
stables and carriage houses, are pictures of health, fruitfulness, and good
management. The common error one meets with in trees of this class
is overcrowding both of the horizontal branches and of the spur growths
thereon, but here no overcrowding is permitted either in trained trees.

296

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 28, 1893.

free standards, or pruned bushes. In pruning pyramids and bushes, Mr.
Lewendon says he prefers “ to give them their head ” — that is, he leaves
the leading grovs^ths a foot or more in length, but keeps each branch
quite a foot distant from its neighbour.

A considerable portion of the fruit had been gathered on the occasion
of my visit, and a peep into his fruit room was a treat not soon to be
forgotten. A number of Warner’s King Apples covering a long rack,
were the finest I have yet seen of that variety. The fruits taken
throughout, as gathered, I was told, averaged 18 ozs. each, and one
specimen when placed on the scales bumped them down at IJ lb.
Other varieties so large and fine as to be almost out of character were
Gloria Mundi (averaging 1 lb. each), Blenheim Orange, Lord Suffield,
Eibston Pippin, King of the Pippins, Cox’s Orange Pippin, Kentish
Fillbasket, Lady Henniker (a favourite with Mr. Lewendon), New
Hawthornden, Sturmer Pippin and Worcester Pearmain. Bismarck,
Cellini, Small’s Admirable, Lane’s Prince Albert and Bramley’s
Seedling were also very good indeed.

Amongst Pears his finest and best are Marechal la Cour (a variety
which succeeds remarkably well in the eastern counties), Dorothy
Eoyal, Zepherin Gr^goire, Pitmaston Duchess, Durondeau, Forelle (very
handsome), Beurr4 Diel, Beurr6 Clairgeau, Beurr6 Eance, Beurrd
d’Aremberg, Marie Louise and Winter Nelis ; very good also were
Autumn Bergamot, Williams’ Bon Chretien, Glou Morqeau, Passe
Colmar, Thompson’s and Josephine de Malines.

Passing from Woodhall, I find in many parts of Norfolk grand old
trees of the fine Apple Ecklinville Seedling. Young and old trees alike
are laden with fruit of large size, clear skins, and of such colour as one
only expects to see upon fruit grown under the sunny skies of Kent. As
a well tried variety for the market grower this is hard to excel in the
county.

In many orchards I also find large trees of Wyken Pippin heavily laden
with fruit. The trees as a rule bear every second year, the trees needing
a season to recuperate after perfecting such heavy crops as they are now
carrying. I am surprised to find no young trees planted of this delicious
Christmastide Apple. The tree is a vigorous grower everywhere,
perfectly free from canker, and makes a large spreading head. Of few
varieties only can it be said they are free from canker in this generally
flat, low-lying, badly drained county, which seems to produce forest
trees and pheasants far better than high class fruits. — W. K. W., Lecturer
in Horticulture to the Norfolk County Council.

EOYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

September 26th.

This meeting brought a very effective display of autumn flowers —
Dahlias being very prominent, Orchids, fruit, and vegetables.

Fruit Committee. — Present : Philip Crowley, Esq. (in the chair) ;
with Eev. W. Wilks, Dr. Hogg, and Messrs. John Lee, G. Bunyard,
J. Cheal, A. H. Pearson, G. Goldsmith, G. Taber, T. J. Saltmarsh,
W. Warren, J. Smith, H. Balderson, J. Hudson, G. Wythes, W. Iggulden,
G. Eeynolds, G. Sage, A. J. Laing, A. Dean, and J. Wright.

Mr. E. Molyneux, The Gardens, Swanmore Park, Bishop’s Waltham,
sent a magnificent dish of the American Apple Wealthy. Fruits very
large, round, inclining to ovate ; greenish yellow, almost entirely covered
with broken crimson stripes. Very handsome, symmetrical, and as
tender as a Pear. Considerable discussion arose relative to the growth
and bearing habit of the trees, some of the members expressing their
strong disapproval of the variety in those respects, while others had
found the trees quite satisfactory. Eventually an award of merit was
granted by a majority of three votes.

Sir John H. H. Amory, Bart. (Mr. Grigor, gardener), sent a new Melon
named Maximus, cut from a plant in a pot. Fruit oval, very large
indeed, but like many other large late fruits wanting in quality, and no
award was made. Mr. J. Lye sent from Clyffe Hall, Market Lavington,
a fruit of his new Melon Lye’s Exquisite, a medium-sized green flesh,
but over-ripe. Probably a good Melon when in condition early in the
season, and the Committee desired to see it next summer.

Sir E. Loder (gardener, Mr. G. Goldsmith), Leonardslee, Horsham,
sent a dish of Pomegranates, very large, 3 inches in diameter, grown
against a wall in the open air. They were not ripe (vote of thanks).
Plenty of fine ripe imported Pomegranates can be bought from barrows
in the London streets at Id. each. Mr. J. Duncan sent ripe Grapes
grown in the open air at 45, Amherst Park, Stamford Hill, London
(vote of thanks). A similar mark of recognition was accorded to Mr.
Wm. Palmer, who sent from Andover a dish of Duke of Albany Peas
grown from seed ripened from an early crop in the summer and sown on
July 15th.

The Earl of Cork and Orrery, Marston House, Frome (Mr. W.
Iggulden, gardener), sent thirty dishes of splendid Pears, mostly grown
by old trees on Pear stocks in clay soil. A silver Knightian medal was
unanimously recommended for the collection, also a bronze medal for an
unusually fine dish of Doyenn6 de Comice. Besides the variety named
grand dishes of Van Mons Leon le Clerc, General Todtleben, Glou
Morqeau, Easter Beurre, Beurrd Sterckmans, Pitmaston Duchess and
others were staged by Mr. Iggulden, who would like more hot summers
at Marston.

Mr. Owen Thomas sent from the Eoyal Gardens eighteen magnificent
Pines and a dish of fruit of Cydonia japonica. The Pines consisted
of twelve Queens and six Smooth Cayennes from plants sixteen months
old from the sucker. Fruits of the Queens would probably average
about 6 lbs. each, while some of the Smooth Cayennes were doubtless

9 lbs. in weight. .4 silver-gilt Knightian medal was unanimously
recommended, and some persons thought that a still higher honour was
merited. A vote of thanks was accorded for the Cydonia fruits.

A collection of twenty dishes of Apples and the same of Pears were
sent from the gardens of the Dowager Lady Freake, Fulwell Park,
Twickenham ; very good fruits of popular varieties, and a small silver
medal was recommended. A highly creditable exhibit of seven varieties
of Onions, six of Apples, six of Plums, and a fine dish of Marie Louise
Pears was staged by Mr. John Chinnery, Downton Castle Gardens. The
produce represented excellent culture, and a silver Banksian medal was
recommended. A similar honour was voted to Mr. G. Eeynolds, Gun-
nersbury Park Gardens, for twenty splendid Melons, several very large
indeed, and all indicating superior culture. J. Nix, Esq., Tilgate Manor,
Crawley (gardener, Mr. Dibben), sent twenty-seven dishes of Pears,
several of them very good in Ised — an excellent representative collec¬
tion (small silver medal). Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons bad a very extensive
exhibit of vegetables and fruit, the whole comprising a hundred dishes,
only some of the vegetable “ dishes ” would about fill a bushel basket.
Earliest of All Cabbage was represented by neat compact heads, and
London Coleworts were very fine. Leeks were blanched to the extent
of 9 or 10 inches, and robust plants of Brussels Sprouts were crowded
with firm knobs. Potatoes, Carrots, Onions, and most other vegetables
in season were included in this representative collection, and a silver-
gilt medal unanimously recommended.

Floral Committee. — Present : W. Marshall, Esq. (in the chair) ;
Messrs. H. Herbst, E. Dean, G. Stevens, C. F. Bause, C. J. Salter, J. D.
Pawle, C. Jeffries, E. Mawley, H. Cannell, A. H. Williams, Charles
Noble, Peter Barr, and Eev. H. H. D'Ombrain.

Messrs. Cheal & Sons set up a very attractive stand of Dahlias,
three bold shields of bloom being flanked by boxes and bunches of
flowers. The central and largest shield was composed of Cactus varieties,
prominent amongst which were Dalicata, Ernest Cannell, Eobert
Cannell, and Countess of Eadnor. Duchess of York was also noteworthy
for its distinct colour, and a new variety called Crawley Gem, with
bright crimson flowers, was much admired (silver Flora medal). Messrs.
Keynes, Williams & Co. had a fine display of Dahlias, comprising three
large shields of Cactus varieties, in which Kaiserin, pale yellow ; Dawn,
golden bronze ; and Keynerith, the grand scarlet, were prominent ; and
stands of Show, Cactus, Pompon and single varieties ; Delicata, Lady H.
Grosvenor, Bertha Mawley, Chancellor, Lady Penzance, and Gloriosa,
all Cactus varieties of great merit, were much admired (silver Flora
medal).

Mr. E. Dean exhibited Venidium calendulaceum var. multiflorum
(Vilmorin), but as only a small pot plant bearing four flowers was shown
its value as a pot plant was not strikingly evident. Mr. H. J. Jones
sent Fuchsia triphylla carminata alba, the plants being 6 to 8 inches
high, in 5-inch pots, bushy and freely flowered. Mr. E. Owen sent a
Canna named Comtesse O. de Lestoile and Chrysanthemum Vigilant.
G. P. Pierre Harris, Esq., Scads Hill House, Orpington, had a stand of
double Dahlias, containing neat bright blooms. Messrs. Pitcher and
Manda aroused attention with the fine Datura cornucopia, the flowers of
which are white with a faint lilac shading ; the reverse of the segments
and the tube rich bluish mauve, and with a powerful Auricula fragrance
(see below). Messrs. Cannell & Sons contributed a pleasing display of
Begonias, the most conspicuous variety being the golden amber single
Fashion. The doubles possessed great quality (silver Banksian medal).
Mr. A. Waterer showed seedlings of Abies pungens glauca, Andromeda
japonica, and Cedrus atlantica glauca (the “ Silver Atlas Cedar”). These
had been lifted and the roots wrapped in packing material surrounded
by mats (silver Flora medal). Mr. C. Turner had some splendid double
and Pompon Dahlias, Mrs. Morgan and Norma being very conspicuous
among the former (both receiving awards). Captain Boyton, Irene, and
Eric amongst the latter. They also had a very promising seedling
Cactus named Edith Turner, large, rich crimson, with cerise suffusion.
Mr. T. S. Ware sent a choice collection of new Dahlias, several of which
received awards, and are referred to below.

Mr. Arthur Eawlings contributed a large collection of Show and
Fancy Dahlias, many leading varieties being in admirable condition
(silver Banksian medal). Messrs. J. Laing & Sons were represented by
one of their characteristic displays of stove and greenhouse plants, the
foliage plants being noteworthy for cleanliness and good colour, and the
group was tastefully displayed (silver Flora medal). Mr. B. Ladhams
contributed a large and varied display of hardy plants, and he also
had some beautiful bunches of his fine Pink Ernest Ladhams. Cosmos
bipinnata was noteworthy amongst the hardy flowers, and so was
Heliopsis scabra major, which received an award of merit, and is referred
to below (silver Flora medal). Messrs. Veitch & Sons staged several
new plants, and three — viz.. Nepenthes mixta, Veronica hybrida Purple
Queen, and Aglaonema rotundum — were honoured by the Committee
(see below).

The Gladiolus prizes did not bring satisfactory competition. Mr.
J. C. Tandy, Warkworth, Northumberland, was the only exhibitor in
both classes, one being for twelve distinct varieties and the other for
twelve British-raised Gandavensis varieties. He was placed first for
both stands, and showed all Kelway-raised varieties. Atlas, Corinne,
Formosa, Grand Eouge, Enchanteresse, and Pyramide were six of the
best.

Orchid Committee — Present : H. J. Veitch, Esq. (in the chair) ^
Messrs. J. O’Brien, T. W. Bond, C. Pilcher, E. Hill, J. Douglas,
E. Handley, S. Courtauld, T. B. Haywood, and Dr. Masters.

Mr. P. McArthur sent a small collection tastefully arranged with

September 28, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

297

Ferns and Palms. Amongst these the beautiful Vanda Sanderiana,

V. Sanderiana pallida, Oncidium Jonesianum, and Cypripedium Ash-
burtoniae were conspicuous. W. Thompson, Esq., Walton Grange,
Stone, had some spikes of Cattleya Alexandra, for which a vote of
thanks was accorded. A spray of Cattleya Brymeriana came from

W. E. Brymer, Esq., Dorchester, and Messrs. W. L. Lewis & Co., South-
gate, sent a few plants, including Cattleya Ashtoniana (C. Harrisonaex
C. gigas Sanderiana) Cattleya X Johnsoniana, and C. Loddigesi Puge-
tiana. Mr. J, O’Brien, Harrow-on-the-Hill, send blooms of Satyrium
eriscarpum, S. membranaceum, and Brownlea casrulea (botanical certifi¬
cate). Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, had a small group of choice
species. The most attractive of these were Cattleya aurea, Miltonia
Moreliana, Coelogyne oculata, Calanthe curculigoides, Cypripedium
Schlimi, and the pretty Habenaria carnea, which is figured on page 283.
E, Ashworth, Esq., Harefield Hall, Wilmslow, Cheshire, was accorded a
cultural commendation for a fine plant of Dendrobium Phalmnopsis
Schrbderianum Beatrice Ashworth var. The same exhibitor had a plant
of D. P. Schrbderianum Ashworth’s var., a paler flower than the last
named variety. A plant of Cypripedium Beatrice Ashworth (C. Leeanum
X venustum) was also shown by Mr. Ashworth, likewise were blooms
of other Orchids. W. Cobb, Esq., Dulcote, Tunbridge Wells (gardener,
Mr. F. Howes) exhibited a plant of Catasetum Gnomus, for which a
botanical certificate was awarded.

Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son showed a few choice Orchids, for one
of which — Cattleya blesensis — they received an award of merit (see
below). Messrs. Hugh Low & Co. had a varied and bright collection of
Orchids backed by Lilium nepalense. The group included Cattleya
maxima, Tricosentrum albo-sanguineum, Vanda cserulea, V. Kimballiana,
and many good Cypripediums. Thos. Statter, Esq., Stand Hall, Man¬
chester, sent Cattleya Alexandra, C. Parthenia hybrid, and C. bicolor
coerulea. Messrs. Charlesworth, Shuttleworth & Co., had a little group
of much interest, the most noteworthy feature of which was a new
Cypripedium named Charlesworthi, referred to under certificates below.
They had Vanda cserulea very richly coloured, V. Sanderiana, Cattleya
labiata autumnalis, and a number of Cypripediums. C. Ingram, Esq.,
Elstead House, Godaiming (gardener, Mr. Bond), sent Lselia elegans
Turneri, Ingram’s variety (see below).

Certificates and Awards op Merit.

Aglaonema rotundum (J. Veitch & Sons). — A charming little foliage
plant, with broadly lanceolate pointed leaves, deep rich green, blotched
with light silvery green. It will make a good companion to A. costatum,
exhibited some time ago (first-class certificate).

Alocasia Chantrieri (J. Laing & Son). — A variety with shield-shaped,
deep burnished green leaves, prominently ribbed (award of merit).

Begonia Duchess of York (J. Laing «fe Son). — A fine double flowered
variety, blooms of medium size and rich cerise colour (award of merit).

Cattleya blesensis . S. Williams & Son). — This is a cross between
Cattleya Loddigesi and Ltelia pumila. The flowers are of a uniform
mauve shade, but the lip is richly coloured with purplish magenta
(award of merit).

Cypripedium Charlesworthi (Charlesworth, Shuttleworth & Co.). —
A very remarkable introduction from the East Indies. It is a distinct
and beautiful species, very dwarf, with long, narrow leaves. The
flower stem is only 3 to 4 inches long. The lip is short, green, heavily
suffused with bronzy brown ; and the dorsal sepal is very noteworthy.
It is broad and rounded, and the colouring is a beautiful soft rose,
delicately veined. The staminode is pure white. A feature of the
leafage are the rows of dots on the reverse side. The species is a great
acquisition (first-class certificate).

Dahlia Oetavia (C. Turner). — A fine yellow show jfaintly tipped
with red (award of merit).

Dahlia Mrs. Morgan (C. Turner), — A large and handsome show
variety, blush deepening to pink (award of merit).

Dahlia Captain Boyton (C. Turner). — A very neat and pleasing
Pompon, colour blacking purple, an acquisition (award of merit).

Dahlia Miranda (C. Turner). — A very distinct Pompon, yellow,
heavily tipped with chocolate (award of merit).

Dahlia Beauty of Watford (Mr. Darby). — A pretty single variety of
an cld gold colour, suffused with carmine, with a distinct brownish red
ring|in the centre (award of merit).

Dahlia Edith Turner (0. Turner). — A fine Cactus Dahlia with
flowers of a purplish scarlet colour (award of merit).

Dahlia Florence Woodland (T. S. Ware). — A beautiful Pompon, very
smooth and neat, yellow tipped with crimson (award of merit).

Dahlia Mrs, Peart (T. S. Ware). — A very promising white Cactus
which will meet a long-felt want (award of merit).

Dahlia Cherub (G. P. Pierre Harris, Esq.). — A variety of the Show
type, with shapely flowers of a rich golden amber (award of merit).

Dahlia Grand Duke Alexis (Keynes, Williams & Co.). — A very large
white decorative variety, with folded florets (award of merit).

Dahlia Forma (C. Turner). — A grand new Show variety, large,
shapely, and of a beautiful golden amber colour (award of merit).

Dahlia Duchess of York (Keynes, Williams & Co.). — A fine show
variety with neat blooms, terra cotta, heavily suffused and margined
magenta (award of merit).

Dahlia Ceres (Keynes, Williams & Co.). — A pretty Pompon, flowers
neat and lemon colour (award of merit).

Dahlia Sovereign (Keynes, Williams & Co.). — A bright yellow
Pompon variety with neat blooms (award of merit).

Datura cornucopia (Pitcher & Manda). — A very handsome species ;
flowers white, with faint lilac suffusion, the reverse of the segments and

tube having rich bluish mauve specklings and flakings. It is strongly
scented (first-class certificate).

Heliopsis scabra major (B. Ladhams). — A fine autumn Composite,
with flowers of a very rich deep yellow (award of merit).

Lailia elegans Turneri, Ingram's variety (C. Ingram, Esq ).— A very
large and richly coloured form, the lip being of great size, and coloured
with glowing purplish magenta (award of merit).

Nepenthes mixta (J. Veitch & Sons). — An interesting and highly
coloured hybrid, raised by crossing N. Northiana (pollen parent) and
N. Curtisi. The pitchers are long, somewhat narrow, greenish red,
heavily blotched with deep brownish red (first-class certificate).

\eronica hybrida Purple Queen (J. Veitch & Sons). — A very free-
flowering, brightly coloured, and beautiful variety (award of merit).

The Lecture.

At the afternoon meeting, Mr. W. Iggulden, The Gardens, Marston
House, Frome, gave a lecture on the “ Causes of Failure in Eucharis
Culture.” There was a fair attendance and Mr. Iggulden dealt with his
subject in a thoroughly practical manner, detailing the vaiious causes of
failure in the cultivation of this plant. A brief discussion followed, and
a vote of thanks was accorded the lecturer.

EARL’S COURT SHOW.

September 27th, 28th, and 29th.

A splendid show of fruit and vegetables was opened at the Garden
and Forestry Exhibition yesterday (Wednesday). The Apples were
remarkably fine and well coloured, and the Pears were also good. The
vegetables were not very numerous, but of excellent quality, the chief
feature being the fruit.

The principal class was for twenty-four dishes of dessert Apples, and
seven exhibitors competed. The leading prize was awarded to Messrs.
G. Bunyard & Co., Maidstone, who staged medium sized, even, and richly
coloured fruits. Wealthy, Cobham, Gascoyne’s Seedling, Cox’s Pomona,
King of the Pippins, and Worcester Pearmain were particularly good.
Mr. H. Berwick, The Nurseries, Sidmouth, Devon, was second with fine
fruit ; the third prize going to Mr. John Scott, Marriott, Somerset. For
a collection of culinary Apples comprising forty-eight dishes there were
four competitors, and the first prize went to Messrs. G. Bunyard &; Co.,
who had splendid fruits. The best of this collection were Cox’s Pomona,
Lane’s Prince Albert, The Queen, Tyler’s Kernel, Emperor Alexander,
and Peasgood’s Nonesuch. Mr. Woodward was second, and Mr. J. Scott
followed closely. An extra prize was awarded the English Fruit and
Rose Company for a good collection. Mr. Nicholson, gardener to J. W.
Melles. Esq., Sewardstone Lodge, Chingford, was first for three dishes of
culinary Apples ; Mr. Cotteral, Oxon Hoath, Tonbridge, second ; and
The English Fruit and Rose Company, Hereford, third. Messrs. G.
Bunyard & Co. were again first for twelve dishes of dessert Apples,
the best being Worcester Pearmain, Wealthy, Washington, Swedish
Reinette, Blenheim Orange, King of the Pippins, and Cox’s Orange.
Mr. G. Woodward, Barham Court Gardens, followed with a fine
collection.

Mr. Woodward was awarded the first prize for twenty-four dishes
of Apples in the amateurs’ section. The fruit was fine and well coloured,
especially Cox’s Pomona, M6re de Manage, and Worcester Pearmain.
Mr. G. Goldsmith, gardener to Sir E. G. Loder, Bart., Leonardslee,
Horsham, was second with a good collection, the third award going to
Mr. G. Chambers, Beech Farm, Mereworth, Maidstone. Mr. S. H.
Goodwin, Smartswell, Mereworth, secured first prize for twelve dishes of
Apples, amongst which Cox’s Pomona, Worcester Pearmain, King of
the Pippins, and Peasgood’s Nonesuch were particularly fine, Mr. J.
Austin T. Killick, Weavering, Maidstone, was second, and Mr. Goldsmith
third. Five competed in this class. Mr. W. Minifiie, Bedlands, Sid¬
mouth, was first for six dishes of Apples ; Mr. Chambers being second ;
and Mr. James Hall, Croscombe, Wells, Somerset, third. Thirteen com¬
peted in the class for six dishes of dessert Apples, and the produce was
good throughout. Mr. Chambers was the winner with fine fruits. The
second prize went to Mr. R. Potter, gardener to Sir M. Collet, Bart., St.
Clere, Kemsing, Sevenoaks ; and the third to Mr. J, Hall. The English
Fruit and Rose Company were third. For twelve dishes of Apples Mr.
G. Woodward was first, Messrs. G. Bunyard & Co. second, and Mr, H.
Berwick third. Messrs. G. Bunyard & Co. and T. Rivers & Son divided the
prizes for twelve dishes of Apples and Pears grown in an orchard house.

Pears were also shown in splendid condition. In the class for twelve
dishes there were nine competitors, and the leading award went to Mr;

G. Goldsmith for a magnificent collection of fruit. Pitmaston Duchess,
Marie Louise, Doyenne du Comice, and Beurr6 Clairgeau were very fine.
Mr. W. Allan, gardener to Lord Suffield, G unton Park, Norwich, was
second, and Mr. G. Woodward third. Mr. W. Wills, Unsted Park,
Godaiming, was first for six dishes of Pears in one section, Mr. J . Dean,
being second, and Mr. W. Slogrove, third. There were six competitors
in the class for twenty-four dishes of Pears, and the prizes were keenly
contested. Mr. G. Woodward was aw’arded the first prize, the second
going to Mr. G. Goldsmith, and the third to Mr. W . Iggulden, Marston
House Gardens, S omerset. M. A. Offer was first for twelve dishes of
Pears, Mr. R. Smith, Presdale Gardens, Ware, being second, and Mr.

H. Berwick third.

Vegetables, as already mentioned, were shown in good condition.
For a collect.on of twelve kinds Mr, T. Wilkins, gardener to Lady
Theodora Guest, Inwood House, Blandford, was first, showing splendid
produce. Mr. G. J. Waite, Glenhurst, Esher, was a good second, the

298

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ September 28, 1893.

third prize going to Mr. J. Friend, Rooksnest Gardens, Godstone.
There were seven competitors. Mr. B. Ryder, Orpington, was first with
a collection of Tomatoes, the Frome Flower and Fruit Company second,
and Mr. J. Welborn third. Messrs. J. Strong, E. Ryder, and J. Hall
secured other prizes for Tomatoes. Messrs. T. Rivers and Son, G. Gold¬
smith, J. Friend, and J. Dean for Plums, and Messrs. G. Woodward,
T. Rivers & Son, A. Offer, D. Fairweather, and H. Beanes for Peaches.

Miscellaneous exhibits were numerous. Mr. G. Reynolds had a
collection of Melons (silver medal), and Mr. C. Terry, The Gardens,
Tatton Park, Brentford, some Pine Apples (silver-gilt medal). Mr. 0.
Turner, Slough, exhibited a dish of very fine M^re de Manage Apples,
the heaviest weighing 22J ozs. (highly commended). Mr. W. Mancey,
Upper Gatton, Redhill, had Pitmaston Duchess Pears, the heaviest of
which weighed 2 lbs. (bronze medal). Mr. Goldsmith gained a bronze
medal for Pomegranates. Messrs. T. Rivers & Son, Sawbridge worth,
gained a silver medal for a collection of Grapes, Apples and Pears, and
was awarded the first prize for a splendid table of fruit, including trees
of the Bijou Apples. Mr. J. Dibben, Tilgate House, Crawley, had a
collection of Pears (bronze medal) ; Mr. T. M. Le Pelley, Rusper,
Sussex, Grapes (bronze medal), and Mr. W. Minifie, Sidmouth, Peasgood’s
Nonesuch Apples (highly commended).

In the Exhibition buildings many miscellaneous exhibits were also
staged. Mr. J. Strong had Tomatoes (bronze medal), and Mr.
W. Salmon, West Norwood, a large collection of vegetables (silver
medal). Mr. Henry Merryweather, The Nurseries, Southwell, Notts,
had a fine collection of Bramley’s Seedling Apples. Mr. A. Rawling
secured a bronze medal for Dahlias, and Mr. Deverill, Banbury, a silver-
gilt medal for a magnificent collection of Onions. Messrs. H. Cannell
and Sons had Begonia blooms, as also did Mr. A. W. Young, South
Norwood. A bronze medal went to Mr. T. A. Hester, The Links,
Plumstead Common, for a collection of Grapes, Apples, Pears, and Nuts.

Messrs. J. Veitcb & Sons, Chelsea, gained a gold medal for a group of
Nepenthes. First-class certificates were awarded for N. Northiana,
N. mixta, and N. Burkei excellens. The same firm sent a collection of
cut hardy shrubs, and certificates were given for Crataegus pinnatifida
major and Cornus stolonifera Spathi. Messrs. Veitch & Sons also gained
certificates for Aglaonema rotundum, A. costatum, Cypripedium Niobe,
C. Aphrodite, C. T. B. Haywood, C. Drysa, Catasetum Darwinianum,
Pandanus paciflcus, Rhododendrons Princess Beatrice, Aphrodite, and
Ajax. Mr. A. Waterer, Knaphill Nursery, had Conifers (silver medal),
and Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons a grand collection of Dahlias and Apples,
but no award had been made when our reporter left. Messrs. W.
Paul & Son, Waltham Cross, gained a silver medal for a collection
of cut Roses and Apples. A first-class certificate was awarded for
Duke of York Rose, a new China variety.

Mr. J. Watkins, Withington, Hereford, had a very fine collection of
Apples (silver medal), as also did Mr. H. Berwick, Messrs. J. Veitch and
Sons, G. Bunyard & Co. (silver-gilt medal), but pressure on our space
prevents further reference. Messrs. W. Innes & Co., Littleover, Derby,
staged some well-grown Grapes (silver-gilt medal), and Messrs. G.
Spooner & Sons, Hounslow, had Apples (silver medal), Messrs. J. Laing
and Sons secured a bronze medal for Apples and Pears, as also did Mr.
A. H. Rickwood, Fulwell Park, Twickenham. Messrs. H. Cannell and
Sons secured a silver medal for a collection of vegetables and fruit, and
Messrs, Keynes, Williams & Co., Salisbury, a similar honour for Dahlias.
Certificates were awarded for Dahlias Apollo, Lady Penzance, Gloriosa,
Sovereign, and Phoebe, shown by the Salisbury firm.

HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

Wall Trees. — Branch Thinning. — At no period of the year can
the evil of overcrowding branches be better noticed than at the present
time while the foliage is still on the trees. Horizontally trained trees
often have double the number of branches they should have. The
results are easily seen by the elongated spurs which are denuded of
foliage at the base. This goes on continually when the sun cannot
shine between the branches or spurs. Clusters of strong wood buds and
weak fruit spurs struggle with each other. The lower branches usually
suffer the most in this respect. The top tiers of branches and their
extremities are often able to develop some fruitful spurs even when
crowded, but it is seldom such can be found lower down the trees, which
shows the great importance of light and air. Trees should be so
managed that equal conditions can be secured to every part, then
general fruitfulness will ensue. The main branches ought, as a rule, to
be a foot asunder, except in the case of some vai;ieties of Pears which,
making slender wood and small foliage, will do with the branches 9 or
10 inches apart. Another point to be noticed is that branches with
spurs standing out a considerable distance from the wall require more
room between them than those on which the spurs are short.

Spur Pruning. — Along with removing some of the branches spur-
thinning is usually required, crowded elongated spurs being also
conducive to unfruitfulness. Thinning spurs is usually done in the
winter, but greater advantages follow if the operation is done while the

foliage remains. In the first place it can be effected more thoroughly
while the leaves are present on the trees to guide the judgment in the
selection of the best to retain ; while the further advantage results with
autumn as against winter pruning, that the buds left receive at once the
active energies of the trees, helping them to become transformed more
quickly into prominent fruitful buds.

Prunlngr Bush Apple Trees. — The present is also a suitable
opportunity to thin out the wood of bush Apple trees. They will be
fruitful at an earlier period if overcrowding is never allowed, and to
effect this a little judicious thinning is necessary every season. Remove
the badly placed shoots and those which intersect others, spoiling the
appearance and contour of the trees. Severe shortening of the main
shoots must not be adopted except where it is desired to originate more.
Before young trees come into bearing long shoots are frequently made
in one season. Such as these are backward in forming fruit buds if
some slight check is not given. Therefore shorten the longest to half
their length, others merely having their points removed, cutting to firmi
wood, and to a bud pointing in the right direction for extension. Next
season, instead of the sap rushing straight to the leading point it will
be diverted into the lower buds, causing fruit buds to form or side shoots
to be produced, which in the summer shorten to four leaves, thus aiding
the formation of fruit buds and preventing the interior being over¬
crowded with long spray.

Stopplngr Growths on Neglected Trees. — Scores of Apples and
Pears grown on walls and in other restricted forms never receive any
summer pruning, consequently the growth of foreright and side shoots
on main branches is a continuation of the first growth, increasing in
strength and length. Usually such shoots are shortened back at the
present time, sometimes left for the winter pruning, with the idea that
this is the correct method ; but in neither case can the formation of
fruit buds be relied on to take place, owing to the excessive appropria¬
tion of sap by these rampant growths. It is, however, better to shorten
them now to four or five leaves than to permit them to remain. Their
removal will, at least, admit light and air to any weak fruit buds which
may be clustering near the base, improving and strengthening them
whereby they can take advantage of more rational treatment to be followed
another season. The strongest growers will be benefited by root-pruning.

FRUIT FORCING.

Pines. — Suckers. — These, started early in September, or recently,
should be raised near the glass as soon as they have made good roots, for
it is essential that those intended to be wintered in small pots be brought
forward very gradually, so as to secure a sturdy base. This must not be
sought by withdrawing the plants from bottom heat, as that would
render the growth stunted. When the suckers have well filled their
pots with roots the strongest plants may be transferred to the pots in
which they are to fruit.

Growing Stock. — Young plants will need free ventilation on all
favourable occasions to maintain them in a healthy sturdy condition,
keeping the bottom heat about the roots at 80°, and maintaining a
temperature from fire heat of 60° to 65° at night, with 6° to 10° rise by
day. Water the plants when they require it, employing weak and tepid
liquid manure, and avoid the use of the syringe too frequently ; merely
sprinkling the paths and pit sides morning and evening will suffice in
all but very bright weather.

Fruiting Plants. — Afford these a night temperature of 70°, 80° to 90°"
during the day, closing at 85°. The watering should only be moderate
at the roots, as an excess is liable to cause the fruit to become black at
the centre. Moderate moisture also must only be accorded, for when
kept very close and moist the crowns are apt to become unduly large,
and the glass should be kept clean, with the plants as near to it a&
practicable without the crowns touching.

Cberrles. — With plenty of air and not too much heat up to the
stoning period Cherries may be had in April or May. They can be
grown either planted out or in pots. Inexpensive houses with boarded
sides and a glass roof answer as well as more elaborate structures. It ia
necessary that the house be well ventilated both at top and bottom, and
efficiently heated. Wooden ventilators should be provided at the front
or sides just above the floor line, and at the top to open the whole length
of the house. In addition to this drain tiles may be laid in the soil in
channels about 6 feet asunder crosswise of the house, with the ends taken
outside and above the surface by elbows, and the drains should have
sockets at 3 feet within the house, and then 6 feet apart, with pipes-
coming above the suiface. With caps for the outside openings and
similar ones for the inside air can be admitted by these drains in the
severest weather. The trees may be planted out in front of a lean-to
and be trained to a trellis fixed 12 inches from the glass, the trees¬
having stems reaching to within a few inches of the trellis. The roof
lights for planted out trees should be moveable, and it is better to allow
the trees to occupy the whole of tbe root than have them partly so, and
others against the back wall.

A lean-to structure is best for early forcing, and two rows of 4-inch
pipes in front will suffice for a house of 10 to 12 feet width. Span-roofed
houses will accommodate trees on both sides of them, and for widths of
18 to 24 feet will require two rows of 3 and 4-inch hot-water pipes
respectively on each side. The border should be wholly inside and not
made all at once. A 4 to 6 feet width of border according to the size of
the trees is sufficient to commence with. It should be drained 9 inches-
to a foot deep, having a drain to carry off superfluous water, placing
the roughest at the bottom and least coarse on top, coveiing with a
3 inch thickness of old mortar rubbish. From 21 to 24 inches depth of
soil is ample. Good turfy loam four parts, lime rubbish from an old

September 28, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

299

building one part, and road scrapings one part, chopping the turfy loam
moderately small, and mixing well together forms a suitable compost.
If the top 3 or 4 inches of a pasture can be had where the soil is a rather
strong loam interspersed with calcareous gravel and flints, it could not
possibly be better for this or any stone fruit, and needs no admixture.
Treesjthat have been trained two or three years to walls are best, as
they come into bearing at once, and will move safely provided they have
been recently lifted. The borders being Arm plant at once, or as soon
as the leaves have mainly fallen, and give a good watering. Mulch
withia couple of inches thickness of short stable litter, and take off the
roof lights, not replacing them until the new year, when the trees may
be started. Early Rivers, Black Tartarian, and Governor Wood are the
best for trellises.

I I Cherries in Pots, — These are very accommodating, and may be
grown in any light, airy, well heated houses. The trees may be pro¬
cured at once. They ought to be in pots, if not they will require a
year to become thoroughly established. Repot at once if necessary,
disentangling the roots at the sides of the ball, removing the drainage,
and shortening any thick or straggling roots. Provide good drainage
and make the soil firm, adding a fourth of well decayed manure to the
compost for potting. Trees that are in as large pots as desired need only
have the drainage rectifled and be surface dressed, or the old drainage
may be cleared away, a few inches from the base of the ball removsd,
the roots shortened back, removing all the loose surface soil and supply¬
ing fresh material, made firm under, around, and over the ball. The
trees should be placed on a hard bottom impervious to worms, and sur¬
rounded with ashes to the rim, covering the pots with litter upon the
approach of frost. AflEord a good watering after potting or having the
roots interfered with. Guigne Annonay, Early Rivers, Empress Bugdnie,
Early Red Guigne, Early Jaboulay, Early Red Bigarreau, May Duke, Black
Tartarian, Governor Wood, and Elton are excellent varieties, and afford
fruit in succession. The trees may be in pyramidal form, but low standards,
€0 that the heads will be well up to the glass, are most desirable.

Cucumbers. — The plants for winter fruiting should be planted as
soon as they are ready if not already done. A good bottom heat is
essential to success, whether it be obtained by the aid of fermenting
materials or hot-water pipes, but the latter is the most desirable means,
and if the former are used there should be hot-water pipes in the
bed to maintain the heat when that of the fermenting material
declines. The soil may consist of light turfy loam with a third of
fibrous peat, a sixth of old mortar rubbish, and a tenth of charcoal, the
whole well incorporated. Reliance should be placed on liquid manure
and surface dressings for imparting vigour later in preference to employ¬
ing manure in the compost.

Autumn Fruiters. — A healthy and vigorous growth must be main¬
tained, and do not overcrop the plants. Afford weak tepid liquid
manure once or twice a week as may be necessary. Add a little fresh
warmed soil about once a fortnight to the hillocks or ridges. Main¬
tain a night temperature of 65°, 70° to 75° by day artificially, and 80°
to 90° from sun heat. Avoid a close atmosphere by careful and
moderate ventilation, but cold drying currents must be prevented, for
they are very injurious. Be sparing in the use of water, especially on
the foliage, keeping a genial condition of the atmosphere by damping
the surface in the morning and afternoon, but gradually reduce the
atmospheric moisture as the days shorten and the natural heat declines.
If aphides attack the plants fumigate on two or three consecutive
evenings ; for mildew dust with flowers of sulphur.

Strawberries In Pots. — A selection should now be made of the
plants for early forcing, taking those which are in the forwardest
condition as regards completing their growth and plumping the crowns.
La Grosse Sucree and Vicomtesse Hericart de Thury are, all points
considered, the best. They may remain outdoors until the approach of
frost, and should then be placed well up to the glass in frames, only
affording protection from heavy rains and frost, otherwise exposing
fully or ventilating freely. The plants must not lack water, yet
needless applications cause the soil to become sodden and sour. Any
plants that appear in the latter condition should have the drainage
examined. Expel worms from the pots with lime water, and rectify
the drainage where defective. Where the crowns are numerous,
the small ones should be removed with a wedge-like piece of hard
wood without injuring the leaves or central crown. This will
concentrate all the vigour of the plants on the chief crown, and though
there will be fewer trusses of bloom there is no need to fear a deficiency
of crop, but it must not be carried too far, and in the case of split
crowns, that is, the central one divided into two or three, these must be
left, removing the small side ones only. The plants must have plenty of
space for the full exposure of the foliage, which is essential to a sturdy
growth and plump well-developed crowns. Remove all runners and
weeds as they appear.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

W. & J. Birkenhead, Fern N ursery. — Ferns and Selaginellas.

J. Cheal & Sons, Lowfield Nurseries, Crawley, Sussex. — Fruit Trees
und Shrubs,

W. Clibran k Son, Oldfield Nurseries, Altrincham. — Shrubs, Fruit
Trees, Spring Flowering and other Plants.

Laing k Mather, Kelso-on-Tweed. — Carnations,

Ketten, Fr^res, Luxembourg. — Catalogue of Roses.

W. Paul k Son, Waltham Cross, Herts. — Catalogue of Roses.

AV. Rumsey, Joyning’s Nurseries, Waltham Cross. — Roses.

L. Spath, Baumschall, Rixdorf, Berlin. — Fruit Trees, Roses, Shrubs,

Wallace k Co , Colchester. — List of Lilies, Irises and other Plants,

i

HE BEE-KEEPER.

. I , I . 1 ■

» ■ ■ « - .1 r-L T.J.--1 -.J >| ■ 1 . < ■ 1

APIARIAN NOTES.

Practical Hints for Beginners.

The reader must bear in mind as he peruses these notes, that
the writer has had a wide experience in bees and bee-keeping,
sufficient to enable him to answer almost any query concerning
bees, and to affirm positively that the Lanarkshire divisional hive
is the only one adapted for moving bees with safety from place to
place, as from the home apiary to the orchard, thence to the
Clover, and eventually to the Heather. It is the only hive in
which we can say in the autumn, when all is arranged, the bees are
safe till May or longer. It will therefore be the only hive
alluded to in these notes.

But bee-keepers are their own masters, and beginners are at
liberty to make experiments, and trials of different things and
on different lines from what I teach ; at the same time it must be
understood that the many mishaps in wintering and moving bees
in summer, together with unnecessary expenses connected with
large and double cased hives, warrant me giving the foregoing
warning. Read the book of Nature, then the singular and often
mysterious movements occurring in the hive will become plain
and easily understood. Learn the “ hows and the whys,” and bee¬
keeping will become an easy, profitable, and interesting pursuit.

Tenants of the Hive.

The.se are the queen, workers, and drones during the summer,
and not unfrequently fertile workers, drone-producing queens,
and hermaphrodites. As every text book gives illustrations of the
former, it is needless to enlarge on them here further than is
necessary to make plain to the novice their mission in the hive.

“ It is difficult to catch the queen,” or “ I have never seen one ” are
expressions not unseldom used by beginners. Experienced bee¬
keepers have not unfrequently from the smallness of some queens
great difficulty in spotting or catching them, but it is often
undesirable to waste time hunting for them, as there are ways of
disposing of them, as will be hereafter explained. Meanwhile the
best illustration of a queen beginners can get is, when queens are
heard piping in the hive to open it and secure a ripe cell. It is
known by its dark brown appearance over the seal and its edge, as
the seal sometimes falls back after the queen has left and is again
sealed by the bees. Make sure the cell contains a queen. Vibrations
by its movements are distinctly felt, and it can be seen in the cell
when held between the eye and the light. Now place the cell with
a few workers on a piece of comb under a glass, where you can
watch the exit and other movements, and have a full view of a live
queen bee and all her movements better than pen or pencil can
describe. — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

(To be continued.)

Lanarkshire Divisional Hive.

I OBTAINED two hives and like them, only I am somewhat in
difficulties about the management. You kindly told me how to
pack them for winter, but I want to know about sufficiency of
room. I drove and put a stock in three weeks since, placing
with it other two stocks ; they were not very strong. I put
them on worked out combs, so there is no building for them,
and I have fed them slowly with syrup ; but I fancy the one box
will hardly be large enough. Perhaps you might kindly tell me in
the Journal of Horticulture. The “ B. B. J.” says we should
replace old queens with young ones, but I cannot find the queens.
I suppose it is a difficulty for novices, so I must leave them alone
and trust they will be all right. — S. M. H.

[In reply to “ S. M. H.,” it depends greatly upon whether the
hive is intended as a swarmer or non-swarmer, and on the locality
producing flowers that yield the principal supply of honey whether
the bees should occupy two or three divisions. One at any time is
too small. If the bees swarm several weeks before the honey-
yielding flowers are in bloom, then two divisions are suitable ; but
if the flora of the district comes before the bees are ready for
swarming, prepare the hive now in three divisions full combed,
having a youthful queen. If the hive is well supplied with stores
it will attain a good strength, and the bees will be able to gather
much honey in the early part of the year before attempting to
swarm.

It is not very long since the “B. B. J.” taught that queens
were at their best when three years old, and perhaps took the hint
about youthful queens from the pages of the Jourml of Horti¬
culture. As you have joined two old stocks to the original

300

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t September 28, 1893.

probably one of their queens is saved ; usually old or swarmed
stocks have young queens.

There have been many mishaps in feeding bees with syrup
made after a recipe in the “ B. B. J. ; ” it is by far too thick. The
proportions of the best cane sugar and water should be equal in
weight. For various reasons I neither spend time nor money on
the paper mentioned, so cannot help inquirers outside of the
columns of the Journal of Horticulture. — A. L. B, K.]

Carniolan Bees.

An error has occurred on page 278. The matter should read,
I am perhaps prejudiced in favour (not against) of the pure
Carniolans free from the yellow bands, but cannot help admiring
their good qualities in honey gathering, purity of comb, and mild
temper, or, in other words, after disproving by actual trial and
experiment nearly all that has been written elsewhere against
Punics, I prefer Carniolans. — A. L. B. K,

The Ingenuity of Bees.

Can bees learn to tell the time of day as well as a clock ? A
correspondent of ‘‘ Science Siftings ” lately noticed that a large
number of bees were frequenting the flowers on his lawn, and
every day when he came home to lunch he put a lump of sugar on
a brick in the garden for them. They soon learned the time when
they might expect the sugar, and now, when he goes out at noon,
he finds about 100 bees sitting around waiting for their lunch.

•**A11 correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the stafE often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Calla aethloplca Seedlings (71 W. W.'). — Calla asthiopica is
popularly known as the Arum Lily, but seedlings vary somewhat in
foliage as well as in form of spathes, and you can only ascertain the
character of your plants by flowering them.

Cobeea scandens alba (77. R. Richards'). — We have not seen
flowers so nearly approaching pure white as those you have sent, nor
does Mr. G. Nicholson, of Kew, remember seeing any quite so white as
these specimens of yours which he has examined.

Insecticides (71 A.). — We have not a doubt that what you say is
correct, but your letter is written in a form that brings it distinctly
within the category of advertisements, and could only appear by an
arrangement with the publisher on the usual business lines.

Culture of Erythrlnas {Ymmg Gardener). — The following hintS)
written by a most successful cultivator of these plants, exactly answer
your question : — “ Erythrinas are very handsome easily grown plants,
and we strongly recommend them to those whose accommodation for
growing plants is limited, because they may be kept all the winter
in any kind of place where frost does not penetrate ; after they are
started in spring may be wholly grown outside, and only removed to the
greenhouse as they come into flower. They are remarkably profuse
flowering plants, and their wants are few. A mixture of loam and leaf
soil, with a good dash of sand and a few pieces of charcoal, suits
them admirably. An annual potting just as they start will be
BufScient for ordinarily large plants, and an annual pruning — which
consists in cutting ofi all the summer’s growth down to the rim of
the pot — coupled with such treatment as we have hinted at, will
insure success. We advise a little heat for starting them in, though,
because they start more regularly than if left outside. If put in a
warm temperature we advise careful hardening-off and placing outside
early in June; their removal inside when the first flowers show them¬
selves. After they are cut down they should be kept rather dry and
away from frost. E. crista-galli is the best known, and a fine plant it
is. It is hardy in the warmer districts of England and Ireland, but must
rank as an easily grown greenhouse plant in the less favoured districts
of these islands.”

Thin Runner Beans {T. W.). — The variety sent is of a different
type to the ordinary Scarlet Runner, the pods being, as a rule, less fleshy,
but more delicate in flavour. Those you send are too old for cooking,
and the older they are the more “skinny” they become. The season
has been very unfavourable for Runner Beans, and the produce has, in
consequence, not been so good as usual, though dearer in the markets,
and we suspect that ripe seed will be much above the average price in
bulk. We think you should send samples of the Bean to the introducers
of the variety and the vendors of seed, and hear what they have to say
on the subject.

Destroying- Ants (7) ). — As you have fruit about and the ant^
visit it, it would not be safe to use poison. There is no better plan than
to procure some partially picked meat bones and place them near their
haunts. In a short time the ants will cover the bones, which can be
placed in a bucket of boiling water. Another set of bones should then
be laid, and more ants will visit them, often covering them in their
eagerness to appropriate the flesh. In the meantime the bones first
used should be placed in a sieve to dry, and then may be used again as
baits. This simple plan will soon clear off thousands of ants provided it
is persistently practised.

Euphorbia splendens QR. P. S.). — The plant of which you
sent a specimen is Euphorbia splendens. It is of easy culture, requiring
a stove temperature and a soil of fibrous loam and sand, with a small
proportion of lime rubbish. The pots should be well drained, as any
stagnant moisture is especially injurious to the plants, as their stems
are very succulent. When the plants are growing freely water may be
liberally supplied, liquid manure being also beneficial occasionally.
Although succeeding well in pots this Euphorbia is more useful if
planted out in a border against a wall in the stove, where flowers will
be freely produced, during a considerable portion of the year.

Sambucus nigra aurea (^Elder). — You are right, this is more
golden than the old Gold-variegated Elder (Sambucus nigra variegata),
being quite yellow in the matured growths, and which it retains to the
close of the season. It is of very free growth, and though Elder may be
common it is fit to take rank with the choicest of variegated shrubs, not
the least |of the merits of Elders being that of their thriving in the
vitiated atmosphere of manufacturing localities, and they do well near
the sea ; in fact, screens of Elder are the best as screens or shelter
from sea breezes for choicer plants — choicer simply because less free-
growing and less common. The Silver-variegated Elder (Sambucus
nigra argentea) is not nearly so effective as this ; still it is a desirable
shrub or small tree, and especially as it will grow anywhere.

Tbe Eady Apple (IF. 31.). — The Apple to which you refer is the
Api of pomologists, and the following description and history from the
“ Fruit Manual ” may be of interest to you : — “ A beautiful little dessert
Apple ; in use from October to April. It should be eaten with the skin
on, as it is there that the perfume is contained. The skin is very sen¬
sitive of shade, and any device may be formed upon it by causing pieces
of paper, in the form of the design required, to adhere on the side ex¬
posed to the sun before it has attained its deep red colour. The tree is
of a pyramidal habit of growth, healthy, and an abundant bearer. It
succeeds well in almost any situation provided the soil is rich, loamy,
and not too light or dry, and may be grown with equal success either
on the Doucin or Crab stock. When worked on the French Paradise it
is well adapted for pot culture. The fruit is firmly attached to the
spurs, and forcibly resists the effects of high winds. According to
Merlet the Api was first discovered as a wilding in the Forest of Api, in
Brittany. It has been asserted that this Apple was brought from
Peloponessus to Rome by Appius Claudius. Whether this be true or not
there can be no doubt it is of great antiquity, as all the oldest authors
regard it as the production of an age prior to their own. Although
mentioned by most of the early continental writers, the Api does not
appear to have been known in this country till towards the end of the
seventeenth century. It is first mentioned by Worlidge, who calls it
‘ Pomme Appease, a curious Apple, lately propagated ; the fruit is small
and pleasant, which the Madams of France carry in their pockets, by
reason they yield no unpleasant scent.’ Lister, in his ‘Journey to Paris,
1698,’ speaking of this as being one of the Apples served up in the
dessert, says, ‘ Also the Pome d’Apis, which is served here more for show
than for use ; being a small flat Apple, very beautiful, and very red on
one side and pale or white on the other, and may serve the ladies at
their toilets as a pattern to paint by.’ De Quintinye calls it ‘ Une
Pomme des damoiselles et de bonne compagnie.’ Under the name of
Lady Apple large quantities of the Api are annually imported to this
country from the United States, where it is grown to a great extent, and
produces a considerable return to the growers, as it always commands
the highest price of any other fancy Apple in the market. In the winter
months they may be seen encircled with various coloured tissue papers
adorning the windows of the fruiterers in Covent Garden Market.”

/ M'axnes of Fruits. — Notice. — We have pleasure in naming good
typical fruits (when the names are discoverable) for the convenience of
regular subscribers, who are the growers of such fruit, and not col¬
lectors of specimens from non-subscribers. This latter procedure is
wholly irregular, and we trust that none of our readers will allow
themselves to be made the mediums in infringing our rules. Special
attention is directed to the following decision, the object of which is
to discourage the growth of inferior and promote the culture of superior
varieties. In consequence of the large numher of worthless Apples and
Pears sent to this office to ie named., it has been decided to name only

O.to’ fr 5, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

803

The Exhibition of the National Rose Society, held at the Crystal
Palace on the Ist of July last, as regards both the number
and quality of the flowers staged fell far short of what we expect
to see at “ the National.” In fact, we liive to go back nine years
in order to find so small a display of Rose blooms. This year’s
display has been likened to that of 1879, when instead of the
season being a singularly dry, hot, and early one it was nearly
as abnormally cold, wet, and backward. On that occasion, how¬
ever, instead of 4660 Hybrid Perpetual and Tea and Noisette
Roses being staged, as was the case in 1893, there were then
only 1880, or less than half the number. It was also in other
respects much inferior, so that exhibitors as well as visitors will see
what they have to expect should our fickle climate treat us to a
Rose season as unprecedentedly late as that of 1893 was forward.

It is the proud boast of the National Rose Society that on
whatever date their metropolitan exhibition be held, or whatever
the character of the season, they never fail to attract to their
leading show the cream of all the Roses throughout the country
which happen at that particular period to be in flower. This
year our English rosarians have had to contend against conditions
of weather, at all events as regards heat, dryness, and continued
sunshine, without precedent during the seventeen years that the
Society has been established ; and taking all three adverse con¬
ditions together, as far as I can gather unequalled during the
present century. So that regarded from another and I think a
more reasonable standpoint their Crystal Palace Show of 1893
must be looked upon as having been a highly creditable one
considering the very exceptional character of the spring and
summer. The only wonder to me is that anyone could expect
to see anything like an average exhibition after such a long and
trying spell of drought and heat and in such a remarkably forward
year. In fact, the calendar had become so utterly deranged that
throughout the Rose season instead of May we had to read June ;
instead of June, July ; and instead of July, August.

Notwithstanding all these drawbacks there were to be seen
scattered hero and there throughout the Show a fair sprinkling
of choice blooms — blooms sufiiciently fine to satisfy even the
most exacting of critics, and which any ardent Rose lover would
travel many miles to feast his eyes upon. And this is an
advantage “ the National ” possesses over all other Rose shows in
that, drawing its supply of Roses from a much more extended
area, there are sure to be certain favoured localities from which
choice specimens may always be expected. In fact, there was
even in the poor and scanty display of 1879 one grand bloom of
Niphetos which, if my memory serves me rightly, I have never
since seen equalled. At all events, such an impression did this
flower leave on my mind at the time that I thought it worth
while making a special pilgrimage to Hereford in order to worship
the plant from which it had been gathered.

The total number of Rose blooms tabulated for the purpose
of this analysis has been about 15,000, the number of names taken
down from the prize stands at each of the eight exhibitions being

as follows . ^ggg ^gg^ ^g^^ ^gg^ ^ggg

Hybrid Perpetuals... 10,33 1130 1247 1176 1396 1184 1121 1067

Teas and Noisettes... 509 642 854 778 631 662 554 635

1547 1772 2101 1954 2027 1846 1675 1702

No, 693. — VoL, XXVII., Third Series.

The effect of the abnormal character of the seasons upon our
analysis will be at once seen on glancing down the tables and
noticing the number of times the different varieties were set up
in the winning boxes this year as compared with their average
performances at the eight exhibitions. I may here explain that
in order to bring these averages (which govern the relative posi¬
tions of the Roses in the tables) up to date and make them of
more practical value, they have this year been recalculated on
similar lines to those followed in my last Dahlia analysis.

The Hybrid Perpetuals, which at none of the previous seven
shows had been as numerously staged, were the following : —
Alfred Colomb, Dupuy Jamain, Horace Vernet, Duke of Welling¬
ton, Camille Bernardin, Fisher Holmes, Earl of Dufferin, Duchess
of Bedford, Reynolds Hole, and J. S. Mill. On the other hand,
Madame G. Luizet, La France, A. K. Williams, F. Michelon,
Captain Christy, Lady Mary Fitzvilliam, Marie Finger, Marquise
de Castellane, Duchesse de Vallombrosa, and Star of Waltham
were never before so scantily shown. It will thus be seen that
for once the late-flowering varieties were specially favoured, while
those which bloom early in the season were as a rule but
indifferently represented.

Mrs. John Laing, an English variety raised by the late Mr.
Henry Bennett and first sent out by him in 1887, now heads
the list of Hybrid Perpetuals. It is a grand all-round Rose, and
well deserves the position it has for the first time gained. Both
last year and this it was staged more frequently than any other
H.P. in the Show. The fact is, that although distributed six
years ago it is only during the last two seasons that plants of it
have been grown in sufficiently large numbers by exhibitors
generally to enable it to take the place in the table to which it
was entitled, Alfred Colomb, a rather late-flowering sort, was
almost as frequently staged this year as the premier flower,
Camille Bernardin, Horace Yernet, Duke of Wellington, and
Fisher Holmes were also to be found in an unusually large
number of winning stands.

Last year there were only four Roses on the list of Hybrid
Perpetuals which were less than six years old. This year, how¬
ever, we have six— Gustave Piganeau, Sir R. Hill, Jeannie
Dickson, Marchioness of Dufferin, Duke of Fife, and Margaret
Dickson. Only one of these new sorts comes to us from France,
the remaining five being all of British origin. Sir Rowland Hill
(No. 36), a plum-coloured sport from Charles Lefebvre, and the
sole representative of the year 1888, was staged twice as often as at
any of the three previous exhibitions. Next in order of age comes
Gustave Piganeau, an 1889 variety, which I ventured to predict
last year would at no distant date occupy one of the leading
places in the analysis, I, however, never anticipated that it would
rise in the list as rapidly as it has done— at one bound leaping from
No. 46 to No. 8. It is by no means a strong grower, but like
Mrs. J. Laing is free flowering and dependable. I am rather
surprised to find that Jeannie Dickson still remains very much in
the same position as last year, but as likely as not this may be
entirely due to the peculiar character of the season. It was sent
out in 1890, and will be found at No. 47. Both of the 1891
varieties, Marchioness of Dufferin (No. 53) and Margaret Dickson
(No. 59), find places in the table for the first time. The past
season seems to have suited the former admirably, but cooler
conditions of climate are evidently required to bring the latter to
perfection. The remaining new Rose, Duke of Fife (No, 59), a
bright crimson sport from Etienne Levet, only came out last year,
but should it prove constant is sure to become a general favourite
when better known.

That beautiful Tea Rose Catherine Mermet still heads the list
of Teas and Noisettes. There is no other variety which can show
anything like as steady a record or which appears less at the mercy
of the seasons. Indeed, at the last seven exhibitions the number
of blooms tabulated has varied only from thirty-nine to forty-six.

No. 2349.— VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

804

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 5, 1893.

Comf©3se de Nadaillac appeared this year in no fewer than fifty-
one different prize stands, or in a greater number than any Rose
whatever in the exhibition, and is the only Tea which distinguished
itself by being staged more frequently than at any of the seven
previous exhibitions. There were, however, eight varieties which

at none of those shows had been as poorly represented as this year
viz., Niphetos, Caroline Kuster, Madame de Watteville, Jean
Ducher, Madame Bravy, Princess of Wales, Souvenir de Paul
Neyron, and Madame Willermoz,

The newer sorts in this section, for some reason or other, appear

HYBRID PERPETUALS.

4^

d

<4-4

O

cc

<D .

V ci

g CO

•S

-a

S 2

o

«4-( ‘rj

o

Raiser’s

cl cl

xn

^ CO
(D a>

o.a

S g

Name.

<D JS

or

Introducer’s

Name.

Colour,

*s

o

oj H
t>

<

l-H

1

43-7

47

Mrs. John Laing .

1887

Bennett .

Rosy pink

2

39-4

11

Madame Gabriel Luizet .

1877

Liabaud .

Light silvery pink

3

38-3

14

La France (h.t.) .

1867

Guillot .

Silvery rose, shaded lilac

4

34-5

25

A. K. Williams .

1877

Schwartz .

Bright carmine red

5

33-7

31

Ulrich Brunner .

1881

Levet .

Cherry red

6

29 3

31

Marie Baumann .

1863

Baumann .

Soft carmine red

7

25-7

24

Charles Lefebvre .

1861

Lacharme .

Purplish crimson

8

24-0

24

Gustave Piganeau . '

1889

Pernet & Ducher .

Shaded carmine

9

23-9

42

Alfred Colomb .

1865

Lacharme .

Bright carmine red

10

22-6

25

Her Majesty .

1885

Bennett .

Pale rose

11

21'9

20

Merveilie de Lyon .

1882

Pernet .

White

12

. 210

11

Etienne Level .

1871

Levet .

Carmine rose

13

20-2

11

Francois Michelon .

1871

Levet .

Deep rose, reverse silvery

14

20 0

24

Dupuy Jamain .

1868

Jamain .

Bright cerise

15

18 4

16

Louis Van Houtte .

1869

Lacharme .

Deep crimson, shaded maroon

15

18-4

3

Marquise de Castellane .

1869

Pernet .

Clear cherry rose

16

18 3

20

Baroness Kothschild .

1867

Pernet .

Light pink

17

18 0

17

Ferdinand de Lesseps . .

1869

E. Verdier .

Shaded crimson

18

17-6

16

Prince Arthur .

1875

B. R. Cant .

Bright crimson

19

17-5

15

Gdndral Jacqueminot .

1853

Rousselet .

Bright scarlet crimson

20

16'9

28

Camille Bernardin .

1865

Gautreau .

Light crimson

21

16 5

19

E. Y. Teas .

1874

E. Verdier .

Bright red

21

16 5

26

Horace Vernet . . . . .

1866

Guillot .

Scarlet crimson, dark shaded

22

16 4

24

Duke of Wellington .

1864

Granger .

Bright shaded crimson

23

16 0

12

Comtesse d’Oxford .

1869

Guillot .

Carmine violet

23

160

5

Lady Mary Fitzwilliam (h.t.) .

1882

Bennett .

Rosy flesh

24

15-7

11

Duke of Edinburgh . . . .

1868

Paul & Son .

Scarlet crimson

25

15 '5

11

Dr. Andry .

1864

E. Verdier .

Bright crimson

26

15 0

19

Suzanne M. Rodocanachi .

1883

Ldveque .

Glowing rose

27

14 7

4

Marie Finger .

1873

Raimbaud .

Light salmon rose

27

147

16

Marie Verdier . . .

1877

E. Verdier .

Pure rose

28

14-6

28

Earl of Dufferin . . .

1887

A. Dickson & Sons ...

Dark crimson, shaded maroon

29

14-0

11

Le Havre .

1871

Eude .

Vermilion red

30

13-4

9

Heinrich Schultheis . ' . . .

1882

Bennett .

Pinkish rose

31

13 3

24

Fisher Holmes . . .

1865

E. Verdier .

Shaded crimson scarlet

32

12'8

15

Marie Rady .

1865

Fontaine .

Brilliant red

33

12-5

2

Captain Christy (H.T.) . '. .

1873

Lacharme .

Delicate flesh

34

12'4

12

Prince Camille de Rohan .

1861

E. Verdier .

Crimson maroon

35

12 3

12

Duke of Teck .

1880

Paul & Son .

Light crimson scarlet

36

12 0

12

Sir Rowland Hill .

1888

Mack .

Deep velvety plum

37

11-5

11

Abel Carriere .

1875

E. Verdier .

Crimson maroon, shaded purple

37

115

7

Pride of Waltham .

1881

W. Paul & Son .

Light salmon pink, shaded violet

38

10 8

10

Xavier Olibo .

1864

Lacharme .

Dark velvety crimson

39

10-5

16

Victor Hugo .

1884

Schwartz .

Dazzling crimson, shaded

40

10-4

14

Madame V. Verdier .

1863

E. Verdier .

Clear light crimson

41

10 2

15

Beauty of Waltham .

1862

W. Paul & Son .

Rosy crimson

42

9-9

17

Madame Eugene Verdier . . .

1878

E. Verdier .

Silvery rose

43

9-5

12

Duchess of Bedford . 1 .

1879

Postans .

Light scarlet crimson

44

9-3

10

Countess of Rosebery .

1879

Postans .

Cherry carmine rose

45

9 1

19

Reynolds Hole .

1873

Paul & Son .

Deep scarlet maroon

45

8 8

14

Comte Raimbaud .

1867

Rolland .

Clear crimson, tinted red

46

8'8

2

Duchesse de Vallambrosa .

1875

Schwartz .

Flesh, changing to white

47

8-5

8

Jeannie Dickson .

1890

1875

A. Dickson & Sons ...
W. Paul & Son .

Soft silvery rose

Carmine, shaded violet

48

8-3

1

Star of Waltham .

48

8-3

4

Viscountess Folkestone (h.t.) .

1886

Bennett .

Creamy white, shaded flesh

49

8-1

12

Charles Darwin .

1879

Laxton .

Crimson

50

8 0

3

Violette Bouyer .

1881

Lacharme .

Tinted white

51

7-5

7

Auguste Rigotard .

1871

Schwartz .

Light carmine

52

7 3

5

Madame Isaac Periere (B.) .

1882

Margottin .

Light carmine

53

70

7

Marchioness of Dufferin .

1891

A. Dickson & Sons ...

Pink

53

7-0

7

Senateur Vaisse .

1859

Bright crimson

Silvery rose

54

6-9

9

Duchesse de Morny . .

1863

E. Verdier .

55

5 '5

0

Monsieur Noman .

1866

fTmllrif,

Pale rosy pink

Violet crimson

56

5-4

7

Dr. Sewell .

1879

1864

57

5 3

1

Marguerite de St. Amand .

Clear rosy flesh

Clear cherry rose

58

5-2

0

Victor Verdier .

1859

Lacharme .

59

5*0

5

Duke of Fife .

1892

J. Cocker & Sons .

Bright crimson

59

5 0

0

Magna Charta .

1876

W. Paul & Son .

Bright pink carmine

59

59

50

5*0

5

0

Margaret Dickson .

Queen of Queens .

1891

1883

A. Dickson &: Sons ...

W^. Panl Ar. Son .

Ivory white

Pale blush pink

October 6, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEIL

805

as a rnle to take a longer time than the new H.P.’s in coming
into general caltivation. For instance, taking the two varieties
sent out in 1887, Madame Hoste (No. 15), and Ethel Brownlow
(No. 20), it is only at this year’s show that either of these fine Teas
has reached double figures. Ernest Metz (No. 7), first distributed
in 1888, is, however, an honourable exception to this rule, having
been staged twelve times at the 1892 exhibition, and as many as
thirty times in 1893. In fact, there were this year only seven
other varieties more frequently shown in the prize stands. The
year 1889 finds two representatives ; of these Souvenir de S. A.
Prince, a pure white sport from Souvenir d’un Ami, takes for the
first time a good place in the analysis, standing now at No. 10,
between Mar^chal Niel and Madame de Watteville. Cleopatra of
the same year does not seem to have been at all favoured by the
past season, having fallen since last year from No. 17 to No. 24.
So fine and certain a flower is, however, pretty sure to makes its
mark sooner or later, notwithstanding the slender habit of growth
of the plant.

Although such a bad year for Roses generally, the summer
of 1893 seems to have suited admirably both of the varieties
which, in my opinion, are the choicest gems of the two sections
into which this analysis is divided. I refer to Horace Yernet,
the finest of the dark H.P.’s, and to Comtesse de Nadaillac, the
most exquisitely tinted of all the Teas. This is certainly
remarkable, as neither Rose can be regarded as by any means a
strong grower.

The sad loss the Rose world has recently sustained in the death
of that champion raiser of Tea Roses, Monsieur J. B. Guillot,
causes us to look down the two lists and note the many priceless
treasures for which we are indebted to the Guillot family. Among
the Hybrid Perpetuals we find La France, Horace Yernet, Comtesse
d’Oxford, Senateur Yaisse, and Monsieur Noman ; and in the table
of Tea Roses Catherine Mermet, the premier flower ; Comtesse de
Nadaillac, only second on the list, and when at its best second to
none ; Ernest Metz, the rapidly rising favourite ; Madame de
Watteville, the lovely “ butterfly Tea ; ” Madame Cusin, the most
distinct and charming of the red Teas ; Madame Hoste, the most
reliable of the yellows ; Hon. Edith Gifford, the best all-round
Tea ; Madame Bravy, the oldest of the Guillot series ; Etoile de

Lyon, and Madame H. Jamain. Surely a matchless record this !
At the end of this paper will also be found the names of six
beautiful “ garden Roses,” sent out by Guillot during the last ten
years. Before closing the analysis it is once more my pleasing
duty to express my best thanks to those kind friends who assisted
me in taking down the names of the Roses in the winning
stands.

To those who have but little experience in Rose culture the
following se’ect lists may, I trust, prove of service, as I have
endeavoured to include in them only choice varieties of good
growth and constitution.

Hybrid Perpetuals. — Light coloured varieties. — Mrs. John
Laing, Madame Gabriel Luizet, Merveille de Lyon, Baroness
Rothschild, Marie Finger, and Jeannie Dickson. Medium Reds. —
Ulrich Brunner, Fran9ois Michelon, Marquise de Castellane, Dupny
Jamain, Camille Bernardin, Comtesse d’Oxford, Heinrich Schul-
theis. Reds. — A. K. Williams, Marie Baumann, Alfred Colomb,
Ferdinand de Lesseps, E. Y. Teas, Duke of Edinburgh, Dr. Andry,
Fisher Holmes, Yictor Hugo, Secateur Yaisse, and Earl of
Pembroke. Dark varieties. — Charles Lefebvre, Louis Yan
Houtte, Prince Arthur, Duke of Wellington, Earl of Dufferin,
Prince Camille de Rohan, Sir Rowland Hill, and Duke of
Connaught.

Hybrid Teas. — La France, Captain Christy, Grace Darling,
Augustine Guinoisseau, and Yiscountess Folkestone.

Teas and Noisettes. — Innocente Pirola, Souvenir d’un Ami,
Marie Yan Houtte, Ernest Metz, Souvenir de S. A. Prince, Caroline
Kuster (N.), Francisca Kruger, Anna Ollivier, Madame Hoste,
Hon. Edith Gifford, Madame Lambard, Rubens, and Jules Finger.

Bourbon. — Souvenir de la Malmaison and Mrs. Paul.

Garden Roses. — The following are a few non-exhibition
Roses of comparatively recent introduction which I have grown
and can recommend. Hybrid Perpetual : Gloire de Margottin*.
Hybrid Teas : Bardou job, Gloire Lyonnaise’^*, Gustave Regis,
China : Laurette Messimy*. Teas and Noisettes : Dr. Grill,
L’Ideal (N.), Luciole*, Princesse de Sagan*. Polyantha : Gloire
des Polyanthes*. Of the above ten varieties, those marked
by an asterisk, six in number, were raised by Guillot. — E. M,,
Berkham sted.

TEAS OR NOISETTES.

Position in Present
Analysis.

Average Number of
Times Shown.

Number of Times
Shown in 1893.

Name.

Date of
Introduction.

Kaiser’s

or

Introducer’s

Name.

Colour.

1

41 9

43

Catherine Mermet .

1869

Guillot .

Light rosy flesh

2

38-0

51

Comtesse de Nadaillac .

1871

Guillot .

Rosy flesh and apricot

3

37-3

35

The Bride .

1885

May .

White, tinged lemon

4

37-1

35

Innocente Pirola .

1878

Madame Ducher .

Creamy white

5

31-6

31

Souvenir d’un Ami .

1846

Belot-Defoug^re .

Pale rose

6

30-3

39

Marie Van Houtte .

1871

Ducher .

Lemon yellow, edged rose

6

30-3

15

Niphetos .

1844

Boueere .

White

7

30-0

30

Ernest Metz .

1888

Guillot .

Salmon, tinted rose

8

29-9

30

Souvenir d’Elise Vardon .

1854

Marest .

Cream, tinted rose

9

27-7

26

1864

Pradel .

Deep bright golden yellow

10

25-0

25

SnnvGTiir Hh ft A. Prinop .

1889

Prince .

Pure white

11

24 8

11

Madame de Watteville .

1883

Guillot .

Cream, bordered rose

12

24-7

17

Caroline Kuster (N.) .

1872

Pernet .

Lemon yellow

13

23-9

27

Madame Cusin .

1881

Guillot .

Violet rose, yellow base

14

220

21

Francisca Kruger .

1879

Nabonnand .

Coppery yellow, shaded peach

15

21-0

21

Madame Hoste .

1887

Guillot .

Pale lemon yellow

16

20 6

13

Jean Ducher .

1874

Madame Ducher .

Salmon yellow, shaded peach

17

20-4

14

Honourable Edith Gifford .

1882

Guillot .

White, centre flesh

18

17 8

12

Madame Bravy .

1848

Guillot .

White, flushed pale pink

19

17-1

10

Anna Ollivier .

1872

Ducher .

Pale buff, flushed

20

17-0

17

Ethel Brownlow .

1887

A. Dickson & Sons ...

Rosy flesh, shaded yellow

21

140

6

Princess of Wales .

1882

Bennett .

Rosy yellow

22

13-9

14

Madame Lambard .

1877

Lacharme .

Salmon, shaded rose

23

13-8

9

Bnbens .

1859

Robert .

White, shaded creamy rose

24

11-5

8

Cleopatra .

1889

Bennett .

Creamy flesh, shaded rose

25

11-3

10

Etoile de Lyon .

1881

Guillot .

Deep lemon

26

8-4

4

Souvenir de Paul Neyron .

1871

Levet .

Creamy white, tinted rose

27

66

3

Devoniensis .

1838

Foster .

Creamy white, blush centre

28

60

3

Jules Finger .

1879

Veuve Ducher .

Bronzy rose

29

5-7

9

La Boule d’Or .

1860

Margottin .

Golden yellow, outer petals paler

30

5-5

9

1869

Guillot .

White, shaded yellow

31

50

8

Comtesse de Panisse .

1877

Nabonnand .

Flesh, tinted coppery rose

31

5-0

1

Madame Willermoz . ‘ .

1845

Lacharme .

Creamy white

806

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 5, 1893

HERBACEOUS PLANTS.

I AM afraid that all growers of these will find at the end of the
season that they will have a heavy death-roll to enumerate, especi¬
ally in those parts of the country where water has been scarce.
They may not at present have altogether perished, but I imagine
that many of them will be in so weakly a condition that they will
hardly be able to contend with the attacks of frost should we have
anything like a severe winter. In the observations which I now
venture to offer I do not lay claim to any special advantage or
success, and the plants about which I have to speak are not of those
difficult and trying kinds whose habits and wants seem to perplex
us, and yet afford to some persons the opportunities they seek for
in combating difficulties and triumphing over many obstacles. It
is no doubt a delightful thing to be able to point to some plant
which has baffled cultivators, and with laudable pride to be able to
say, “ I have mastered it.”

Bearing in mind the controversy that arose some time ago with
regard to the definition of these plants I venture to include Lilies
amongst them ; they are ever to me and to many others one of the
most interesting classes of plants that we grow, and perhaps the
season through which we have passed has been one of the most
trying that we have experienced of late years. To some of them such
as L. superbum (the Swamp Lily as it is called) the weather has been
especially trying. My plants have grown about 18 inches or 2 feet,
and have not flowered at all ; while others such as Hansoni and
Humbolti have thrown up stems and then withered away without
the slightest attempt to flower ; others it is true, such as Browni
and dalmaticum, have done fairly well.

While mentioning this beautiful class of plants I may draw
attention to some blooms which were sent me the other day by
Messrs. Wallace & Co., amongst them was a bloom of that very
beautiful novelty Lilium Henryi, which has been frequently ex¬
hibited lately and attracted considerable attention, but will it retain
that position ? It is said that it may be fitly described as an orange
speciosum, but it bears so close a resemblance to some of the forms
of the Turk’s Cap that it looks more as if it were related to them ;
however, as its price will leave it for some time in only a few
hands I must be contented to admire it at a distance, and should
I say anything disparagingly it might be set down to the old
adage “ that Grapes are sour.” At the same time they sent me
some blooms of fine forms of Lilium speciosum, all of which with
one exception I have grown, this was Album novum, a fine form of
the white speciosum. It, however, bears a very strong resemblance
to one which I received from Holland under the name of Vestal ;
another was Melpomene which I have grown for some years but
which now seems to be becoming more plentiful. It was, I believe,
raised by the late Mr. Hovey of Boston, U.S., and is certainly the
richest in colour of all varieties of speciosum.

It is remarkable how little has been done in the way of
hybridising these Lilies. Some years ago a very fine variety called
Parkmanni was figured in the “ Florist and Pomologist.” It was
said to have been raised in America, and the stock came into the pos¬
session of Mr. Anthony Waterer ; but like one of its parents, auratum,
it seems to be a difficult bulb to grow, and although many years
have passed he appears to have been unable to get up a stock of it.
His want of success in hybridising seems to be the more strange if,
as is stated by some botanists, auratum itself is a natural hybrid
between speciosum and longiflorum, and is catalogued by some bulb
growers as speciosum imperialis. The others were cruentum and
macranthum, the former a rich colour variety approaching Melpo¬
mene. Amongst other Lilies, Browni succeeded well with me, but
have not been able to do anything with Krameri either in pots or
the open ground. I have tried it in various ways, even in pure
cow manure and sand as recommended by Max Leitchlin, but in all
cases I have failed,

Verbascum olympicum. — I draw attention to this grand herba¬
ceous plant for two reasons. I do not think that it is grown as
much as it ought to be, for it is a noble-looking plant, its
large leaves 3 feet long, and its grand branching flowering
stem from 8 to 10 feet high, with its bright yellow flowers
produced in great profusion, make it a conspicuous object and
peculiarly adapting it for large places ; besides when the centre
stem is cut down from eighteen to twenty smaller branches are
filled with flowers though not quite so large as those produced on
the main stalk. The other reason I have for mentioning it is that
although considered as a biennial it is not always so. Out of the
three or four plants that I had there is one which flowered last
year, and has thrown up a large shoot from the root with fine
vigorous leaves, which will form a good flowering plant for next
year.

ScABiosA OCHROLEUCA. — A plant which I have received under
this name is said not to be a Scabious at all, but a Cephalaria ; how¬
ever that may be it is very Scabious like in appearance, and is an

effective plant ; the flowering stems are 3 feet high, and the colour
of the flowers a soft shade of primrose. Of so well known a flower
as Scabiosa caucasica it is hardly necessary to say a favourable
word, but its long flowering habit, continuing as it does in bloom
for three months, and its pleasing shade of colour, ought to secure
it a place everywhere.

COLCHICUM SPECIOSUM. — Among the various varieties of
Colchicum (or as they are called in Kent Naked Boys), there is none
that I have seen equals this for the size and substance of its petals.
I received my bulb a couple of years ago from my friend, Mr.
Ewbank, and it has now established itself, and is doing well.

CEnothera marginata. — This, to my mind, the most beautiful
of the dwarf varieties of Evening Primroses, has made itself most
thoroughly at home with me, though I have heard of persons who
have found it difficult to manage. The worst point about it is its
rambling habit. I planted it on one side of the walk, and under
which said walk it has found its way and has come up on the other
side, having left its original location, and now forms a compact
mass about 4 feet square. Oenothera taraxacifolia is I believe
very similar to this, but keeps more at home.

Eremuri. — I mention these, not because I have had any success
with them, for my attempts have proved failures. Twice I tried
E. robustus, and I have altogether lost it ; and once I received
a root from Holland under the name of Olgac, which flourished,
but turned out to be a worthless Asphodel. I grieved for these
failures, especially when last year 1 saw a grand spike exhibited by
my friend Mr. Page Roberts at Chester. There are four species
under cultivation, but they are somewhat difficult to procure, for
though they seed freely it requires five or six years to bring them
to the condition of flowering plants. Eremurus robustus is a
magnificent stately plant, in colour soft rosy pink with yellow
centre, a spike being about 2 feet in length. I have heard the
foliage described as handsome, but I cannot say as far as my
experience goes that I consider it so. The leaves are long but very
brittle, and were constantly broken by high winds. A grand spike
of this was exhibited by Mr. Pritchard of Christchurch, Hants, at
the Temple Show. E. himalaicus was exhibited in good form last
year by Mr. Smith of Newry, spikes of pure white flowers, which
is said to be not difficult to grow. E. Olgse is the latest flowering.
I have seen it once exhibited by Mr. Ware at the Aquarium in
September, and was much struck by its singular beauty.
E. Bungei, another beautiful species not quite so tall. There is,
of course, a difficulty about exhibiting, an amateur hardly likes to
deprive his garden of so grand an ornament for the sake of the
exhibition table.

Gypsophiea paniculata. — I have before now spoken of this as so
valuable for cutting for bouquets, and my object is mentioning it
now is that my plant is finer this year than I have ever had it
before. Supposing, from its name, that it was a lime-loving plant,
I put a considerable quantity of chalk among the roots, but whether
its vigour is to be attributed to this or to the hot dry season I
cannot tell.

Arnebia echioides. — Whether it is to be attributed to the dry
season or not I do not know, but this plant has flowered well with
me a second time, and its bright yellow flowers with brown spots
render it a pretty object either in the rockery or border.

Eryngium amethystinum. — There are few more striking
objects in a border than this Sea Holly with its beautiful metallic
blue lustre on leaves, stems and flowers ; but one must be very care¬
ful in handling it, for the Noli me tangere is much more applicable
to it than to the Thistle which Scotland has taken as her emblem.
There seems to be some confusion about plants of this genus. Are
they biennial or perennial ? I have a plant under the name of
giganteum which, however, is not nearly so tall as amethystinum and
has whitish flowers, but on turning to Messrs. Paul & Son’s catalogue
I find that variety described as blue. This, however, seems to me
at any rate, to be a biennial ; then there is alpinum, which I have not
grown, but which is said to be very pretty. It is difficult to arrive
at the names of plants by the colour of their flowers, for botanists
seem to have a contempt for this portion of the description, and I
have seen plants very accurately described so that they were easily
recognisable, but, alas ! when the colour was spoken of it was entirely
different.

Aster bessarabicgs. — I give this name with some hesitation to
a very beautiful variety of Michaelmas Daisy, which has been in
flower in my garden for some time. I say with hesitation, because it
seems almost impossible to arrive at a correct nomenclature. The
variety which I have under this name grows to a height of 2 feet
to 2j feet ; the flowers are large, and very freely produced, of a
bright purplish blue, with a yellow centre. There are many others
of the family now coming in, but I think it hardly necessary to
note them, for it might happen that the names by which I have
received them may not be correct ; but most of them are
desirable plants at this time of the year.

October 6, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

307

Amaryllis Belladonna. — However trying this past summer
may have been for herbaceous plants and many Lilies, it has
unquestionably suited this autumn flowering member of the group.
My own bulbs, planted in the front of a greenhouse facing south,
are flowering more freely than I ever had them before ; 1, how¬
ever, saw the other day in a friend’s garden near here some grand
clumps in full flower, reminding me somewhat of a long border in
a garden at Bray, in Ireland, which at this time of the
year used to be one mass of bloom. Like some other of the family,
it requires a warm sheltered border, and also prefers to be let
alone. Any ordinary garden soil seems to suit it.

Zephyranthes CANDIDA. — The dry summer also seems to have
suited this delightful little bulbous plant, which is not so often
seen in gardens as it ought to be. Its habit is dwarf, the foliage
small, and the pure white flowers freely produced. Light and rich
soil seems to suit it. — D., Deal.

Cypripedium Charlesworthi.

One of the most distinct Cypripediums of recent introduction
was exhibited under the above name at the last meeting of the
Royal Horticultural Society by Messrs. Charlesworth, Shuttle worth
and Co., Heaton, Bradford, and a first-class certificate was awarded
for it. C. Charlesworthi (fig. 43) is a new and beautiful species
introduced by the above mentioned firm from the East Indies. It
is very dwarf, with long narrow leaves. The flower stem is only
3 to 4 inches long. The lip is short, green, heavily suffused with
bronzy brown, and the dorsal sepal is very noteworthy. It is broad
and rounded, and the colouring is a beautiful soft rose, delicately
veined. The staminode is pure white. A feature of the leafage
are the rows of dots on the reverse side. The species is a great
acquisition, and will become popular with Oichid growers.

Repotting and Surfacing Cool House Orchids.

The present is perhaps the most suitable month in the year for
a thorough overhauling, cleaning and repotting, or surfacing as the
case demands, of the plants in the cool house. There is a time
when all healthy Orchids put forth a flush of young roots, and in
the case of Odontoglossums and kindred plants it is usually at this
season when the growths are approaching completion. This is the
time that Orchid growers should give fresh sweet compost for the
new roots to take to at once. It will give the plants a hold on
their pots that will stand them in good stead during a long dull
winter, and will also assist them materially in swelling up fine
healthy pseudo-bulbs.

Masdevallias of the Harryana, amabilis, and Veitchi types,
though many prefer to repot in the spring, would often be more
easily wintered if given new compost early in the autumn. The
soil is frequently in such a fine and close condition after the
repeated and copious waterings necessary to their well-being in the
summer months, that unless watering is judiciously performed the
plants lose the greater portion of their roots in the winter. This
is a serious check to the plants, and can only be avoided by keeping
the compost in a sweet and open condition, and providing good
drainage.

The mode of potting these useful Orchids has often been
referred to in the Journal of Horticulture, so that it is only
necessary to say that clean pots of as small size as possible should
be used, in no case allowing for more than about an inch of
compost around the old material. Fill two-thirds of the depth with
drainage, use some clean moss as a film, and plenty of finely broken
potsherds mixed with the compost. Plants that have the drainage
in thorough order and do not require larger pots should have a
little of the surface soil removed and fresh compost dibbled in
where necessary. After the plants have been thoroughly cleaned,
and before they are returned to the house, the stages, glass, and
walls should be well cleansed as advised by “ Specialist ” on
page 215. — H. R. R.

OUT OF TOWN.

Worksop in the summer is made lively by ever arriving excur¬
sionists. They come from all parts of the coun'ry, but the
manufacturing districts chiefly, for a visit to the Dukeries. Convey¬
ances of all kinds are crowded, and choral parties sing happily on
the way. Glad enough are Sheffield and Manchester workers to get

out of town, and they are out of it very decidedly in the glades of
historic Sherwood. The freedom that is granted is a boon to the
thousands who avail themselves of the privilege afforded. There
are only two Dukes in the district now, but there once were four —
the Duke of Norfolk, Worksop Manor, now belonging to John
Rohinson, Esq. ; the Duke of Kingston, Thoresby, now the seat of
Earl Manvers, with the Duke of Newcastle, Clumber ; and the Duke
of Portland, Welbeck. Of the two latter estates the ducal owners
are still young, kindly disposed to all and more than popular ; yet
not more respected than is our guide, and surely no better guide
there could be, for Mr. Machin can go anywhere and is everywhere
welcomed in the district.

We have a “ long day” before us, for Welbeck, Thoresby, and
Rufford have to be visited, and then there is a drive of several miles
to Southwell. The squire brought a good horse and comfortable
wagonette, with something in it, and away we sped on our journey.
We skirted the ancient manor of Worksop, embowered in trees, the
estate being richly wooded, and in the course of half an hour drove
right into the kitchen garden at Welbeck, for the garden “walks”

are carriage drives, in fact everything, seems great about it. The
kitchen garden certainly is, for enclosed are thirty acres, and the
glass structures are in keeping ; then if we look beyond to the huge
stone buildings, riding school, and others, with dozens of detached
villa-like residences, we have to feel that Welbeck is not as other
places are. It is distinct from all above ground and still more so
beneath it, and though it cannot be said to be beautiful it must be
regarded as wonderful. But we cannot explore, and only a quick
rush through some of the houses is practicable while the wagonette
is waiting. Mr. Horton was luckily at hand, and we were at ease
wi h him in a moment. He has been nineteen years in the gardens,
and has a clear firm grip of his great charge. The demands of the
establishment are enormous, and a cart is always at work taking
produce from the gardens to the Abbey, but very unlike an Abbey is
the huge square pile which stands out bleak and bare with never a
tree on the wide expanse of lawn in front of it.

We race through a large vegetable house, onwards through
figgeries, peacheries, vineries, and planteries, tropical and otherwise ;
now we are under a rich canopy of Bougainvilleas and Allamandas,
with beautiful decorative plants all around, and anon in one house or
another amongst apparently all kinds of fruit grown in this country,
but not in all places so well as at Welbeck. Glass ranges 100 yards
long appear to be plentiful, and, large as they are, look small when
we enter others twice or nearly' thrice that length, and all well and
profitably occupied, while cleanliness and good order are prevalent
everywhere. The pink “ Malmaison ” is the favourite flower of the
Duchess, and great provision is made to meet the daily demand all
the year. We entered not the famous underground tunnels, but were
content to peep into one above ground, an arcade of Apples and
Pears, probably nearly 300 yards long, and then after keeping our

808

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 5, 1893.

distinguished coachman waiting too long, and doing no sort of justice
to the work of a genuine gardener who knows his business and does
his duty, we sped away to the forest.

Soon were we among the Oaks, on some of which the sun has
shone for centuries, the Greendale Oak having stood its ground for
more than a thousand years, so, no doubt have other of the giants of a
far past time, but now mere shells dwindling to decay, yet some of
these ancients still fruitful. As we pass along the broad green glades,
dodging the flies as beet we can, it was pleasing to note the young
plantations duly “labelled” with the date of sowing, and the names
of the historic trees from which the seeds were gathered ; and what
striplings were these trees of thirty of forty years old in comparison
with their ancient progenitors ! Vast as is this expanse of wood¬
land, yet all around we see evidences of care, of love, and of labour
in keeping everything in order, j^et retaining the characteristics of
the sylvan scene.

Eventually, after sundry turnings, as if tracing our way through
a gigantic maze, we emerge into the open country and are soon
passing through the pretty village of Edwinstowe, a village of
refreshments it would seem to be judging by the invitations to tea,
luncheon, or modest hot water in windows or garden tablets all
along the line, saying nothing about everything else you may want
and are ready to pay for, from bread and cheese to a champagne
dinner, from a saddled donkey to a four-in-hand coach. Having
good reason to be proof against all such blandishments we enter the
forest again and meet a stream of tourists wending their way to the
general commissariat. We are soon driving round and admiring the
Major Oak under which “parties ’’are resting, enjoying the shade
and mid-day meal. This noble tree will shelter many, for the circum¬
ference of its spreading branches exceeds 700 feet. It stands alone
on an open plateau of grass, a truly majestic specimen of its kind,
and though its huge trunk is said to be hollow the branches appear
to be as healthy and the leaves as green as those of young trees not
over a century or two old, these in turn being as fresh as thousands
not long since out of their teens. The soil, at least on the surface,
is sandy and poor, but there must be something better below to
support the magnificent arboreal vegetation through which we pass
to Thoresby, which is not very far from the “ Major.”

The drive after entering the demesne is grand almost beyond
description, at least to those who admire gigantic Oaks rising from
an undergrowth of bracken, the trees standing far enough apart,
probably 50 or 60 yards, for showing their individuality, massive
trunks, and noble heads. There is no formal avenue of them, or
anything approaching thereto, but they stretch away on each side in
picturesque irregularity. Thoresby has been described as the “ Queen
of the Forest,’’ and certainly the view from the comparatively new,
large, and ornate mansion, of boldly undulating park, with distant
tree-clad hills and pastoral dales, of river and lake, and herds of
deer, is in its scope and diversity a scene to be enjoyed and
remembered. Yes, it is a queenly place is Thoresby : but we arrive
at the gardens, long behind time, and almost “ given up ” by the
genial gardener, whose name is familiar in the horticultural world
through long and excellent work in gardening, for who has not heard
of “ Henderson of Thoresby ? ’’

“ Come in and have some dinner ; it has been a long time ready,
and not now as we should like it, yet there it is and a good welcome.”
Such was the greeting. “No, no, Mr. Henderson, many thanks, we
are foresters to-day, and our repast must be on the green sward, and
our canopy the greenwood tree.” He could see we were well
provided for when it took two men to carry the luncheon basket for
three, and our friend stepped aside with a quiet smile. We feasted
as Robin Hood never did on venison pie with the sparkling accom¬
paniment of Moses and Aaron — the old waiter’s phonetic rendering of
some such sound he had heard as Moet and Chandon. No, the mystic
Robin had none of this, though he is credited with a liking for nut-
brown ale. But as all things come to an end so did our little pic-nic,
and one man could then easily carry the basket into the boot of the
carriage.

Now to the gardens. As at Welbeck, so here, we could only have
a quick march past much that was good to see, and not an inspection.
Outside, the crops were suffering from drought more than any others
in the Hukeries, as the soil is light and sandy. It is this light soil
which renders fruit grov/ing no easy task in the houses, but with the
best cultural attention a full and good supply is provided. The glass
ranges are extensive, and in them Grapes are produced of excellent
quality. Peaches and Nectarines are extensively and admirably
grown, while of Figs the supply is bountiful. As showing the
influence of soil on Vines Mr. Henderson had by special effort pro¬
cured enough of a substantial kind for one small vinery border, and
the e£E' ct was most telling, displayed by growth, foliage and fruit,
but sufficient for all the long ranges is out of the question and not
really needed, for the fruit is as good as is desired for table, and Mr.
Henderson would not increase his fame as a gardener by growing
for and winning more prizes at shows. Plants are extensively and

well grown for decorative purposes ; the terrace flower garden was
highly attractive, young Conifers flourishing, indeed almost grow¬
ing too fast for each other, and everywhere cleanliness and good
order added to the enjoyment of this well appointed and well
managed garden.

After a short rest in the pleasant home of the gardener, who
has worked so well for thirty years in his fine charge, and kind
attention from Mrs. Henderson, we had to leave Thoresby all too
soon, knowing that at a village inn another carriage was waiting.
We had there to part company with the generous friend who had
done so much for us and whose name will be held in grateful remem¬
brance, Mr. Henry V. Machin of Gateford Hill.

Mr. Henry Merry weather now takes the reins, and we make a
dash before dark for Ruftord Abbey, the seat of Lord Savile, whose
gardens are so admirably managed by Mr. R. Doe. Here we found
the finest collection of hardy fruit seen during the midland explora¬
tions — hundreds of dwarf open bush Apple and Pear trees, models in
their way. The varieties had been allowed to assume their natural
character, but the branches wide apart standing quite clear of each
other, the best of all ways for having them studded with blossom
buds their whole length, to be followed by ropes of fruit from base
to extremity. Many of the trees had grown too freely and had
wisely been lifted, a great work with so many from 8 to 10 feet in
diameter, and the work of watering during the roasting summer had
been the reverse of light. But there is plenty of water at RufEord,
for a beautiful stream runs through the gardens and is made to
form an ornamental feature. It was from here that the very
symmetrical Beauty of Stoke Apple came that was certificated at
Westminster two or three years ago. The tree is excellent in habit,
a good bearer, and Mr. Doe has kept fruits till June.

We run hastily through the houses, for daylight is departing, and
notice Vines in admirable condition bearing valuable crops, Gros
Colman established on the Muscat gaining in flavour by the
connection. The Vines in one house were lifted, the border cleared
out, a new one made, and replanting done after they had started
growing and were showing bunches in the spring. This was
occasioned by a horde of rats taking possession of the border, and
they could not be extirpated in any other way. Notwithstanding the
ordeal through which those Vines had passed they were ripening an
excellent crop of fruit, good proof of the capacity of the cultivator.
Peaches are extensively, and it must be added splendidly, grown at
Rufford, and it would be hard to find trees in a better state for bear¬
ing full crops of fine fruit. Mr. Doe is also famed as a Tomato
grower, The plants are grown in boxes about 3 feet long, made
with 11 inch deals, five or six plants in each box, and trained up the
roof of a span-roof house. They bear enormous crops and seem
proof against disease, though many varieties are grown for testing
with the standard sorts — Hackwood Park and Ham Green. It
would be instructive if Mr. Doe could find time to record his
experience, but he is a busy man — always at work whatever the
hour may be when work needs doing. Near the mansion, a huge
pile, a large lofty winter garden and museum has been erected. It
contains splendid Palms, which could only have been obtained at
great cost, but no man is to be envied in having to grow them
in a structure so unfavourable to their well being, and if Mr. Doe
cannot succeed with them the case will be hopeless. Near the winter
garden is a huge Walnut tree which “some folk say ” is the finest in
England. Its trunk girths 28 feet, so now if any reader can find a
finer he may send the dimensions to the Editor. The pleasure grounds
are extensive, but the lawns were “ burnt up,” and flowers in the
beds struegling agaiust the heat. Yet, great as this was, beds of a
white seedling Pansy in the kitchen garden were a sheet of flowers.
The pure white Princess Alice Stock was also fresh and extremely
beautiful, far eclipsing all others and worthy of being tried in many
gardens.

That is all that can be said about RufEord and the work of its
undoubtedly able gardener Mr. Doe. The darkness deepens, the
clouds thicken, and the hoped for rain comes down ; we have a ten
miles treat through it, are distinctly “ out of town ” and go on our
way dripping yet rejoicing to verdant Southwell. — A City Mak.

PEARS VERSUS PEACHES.

The article on this subject (page 259) was interesting, and the
reasoning in everyway much to the point. The question which “ C.”
there brings forward is of the utmost importance, and the remarks of
your correspondent should be carefully perused by all who want to make
the most of the space at command. At one time there were many
gardens in which Peaches used to be well grown out of doors, but at
present such are exceptions to the rule. Seldom does the crop
prove a profitable one, and taking the seasons together hardly pays
for the labour expended.

The times seem to have changed considerably, and a wall of outdoor
Peaches would in the long run fall far short of one filled with cordon

October 6, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

309

Pears of such varieties as Jargonelle, Williams’ Bon Chretien, Souvenir
du Congr^s, Pitmaston Duchess, Doyenn^ du Comice, Marie Louise,
Beurr6 Diel, Thompson’s, Prince Consort, Glou Mor9eau, Easter
Beurr6, and other good sorts. Against the few gardens where Peaches
do well outdoors, how many have walls with trees trained to them just
merely languishing out an existence, and which no amount of skill and
intelligence on the part of the gardener can ever make them bring forth
satisfactory results ? Instead of devoting a whole wall with Peaches it
would be better to build either a case or a lean-to house on a part of the
wall, and fill the remainder with cordon Pears. I mention cordons
because they are admirably adapted for walls, and much variety may
be grown in a limited space. Many more and finer fruits of Peaches
could be obtained from an unheated house, although probably not
taking more than a quarter of the wall space, in a few years than would
be gathered from an outdoor Peach wall in a lifetime.

An instance might be cited. A south wall 120 yards long at one
time used to be occupied with Peach trees, a fair crop being the result
about every three or four years, and this with every care being taken in
their cultivation. My late employer not being satisfied with the results
the wall was made 3 feet higher, and a three-quarcer span-roofed house
130 feet long erected. The best of the old trees from the wall were
selected, and planted alternately with young ones. From the old trees
we had a fine crop the first season, and when the young ones wanted
more room the former were moved. My employer remarked that in the
first four years he had had more Peaches and Nectarines than from trees
grown out of doors in twenty years. The remainder of the wall is now
planted with espalier trained Pear trees — it being too low for cordons —
and these add very materially to our supply of fruit. I have no desire
to say that good Peaches cannot be grown outdoors, but in this district
(Liverpool) they may be nearly counted on the fingers of one’s hand.
Good Pears would appear to find a ready sale, for the finer samples of
Williams’ and Pitmaston Duchess have been selling in the leading
Liverpool fruiterers’ shops at 3d. and 6d. each. — K. P. R.

The subject discussed by “ C.” (page 259) as to whether south walls
may be the more profitably utilised for the production of Pears or of
Peaches admits of some divergence of opinion. A few days previous to
the appearance of the article alluded to I happened to call on a gardener
who has under his management south walls planted respectively with
Pears and with Peaches. The former were so much in evidence that I
remarked in passing they would surely net a larger sum than the latter.
But, no 1 good Peaches at this season bring fair prices, and fine as many
Pears are, there are still Peach trees in existence which produce year by
year good crops of fruit.

With the general tone of the article in question one is only too
pleased to agree. I am hampered with old trees which have changed
proprietors so often that they are veritable heirlooms. They are too old
to be depended on, are only intermittently fruitful, and never produce
fruit of the best quality. For my own part, I should be only too pleased
to burn, not all, but nearly every old tree in the garden, root and branch,
to be in three to five years in a position to produce with certainty more
and better fruit than it is possible to get from our present stock. That
is, I believe the one reason why Peach growing in the open has declined
so much — viz., old trees which proprietors will not allow to be destroyed
and replaced by young ones. I know trees that are now doing duty
which thirty years ago were aged. Is it reasonable to expect the best
or even average results from these 1 I think not.

It is, however, a point worth considering, whether too much space is
set apart to Peaches to the exclusion altogether of Pears from south walls.
In an ordinary family the requirements of fruit at one time are, as a
rule, not difficult to meet. In my own case I have kept an uninter¬
rupted supply of Pears for over two months almost entirely from a few
small trees, and some of these single cordons. The larger of the trees
have yielded so much fruit that some had to be sold. In the same
way for some time back I have been getting occasional dishes of
Nectarines and Peaches from a few trees growing on the low front
wall of a plant house. So convinced am I of the utility of a number of
small trees that for a few years back I have been planting cordons and
other trees on vacant places on walls. Even with Peaches I do not
consider it necessary to go to the trouble and waste of time
necessary to lay the foundation of a huge fan-shape tree. If the
situation, climate it may be called if that seems a better term, does
not suit, it is easy to keep a supply of young trees to take the places of
those stricken down. If they never get very large one has less com¬
punction at being under the necessity of removing them.

With Pears it is somewhat different, for on a south wall a tree can
be grown to a large size and continue fruitful for many years. But
here again the question crops up whether it is desirable that a large
tree of one sort ought to be grown, or, in its place, several small ones ?
Many varieties of Pears should be cultivated provided the sorts grown
are of good quality. It is, however, not uncommon to find choice
varieties limited. A few large trees cover the wall space and there the
matter ends. I am referring to the northern parts of the island. But
we have now so many Pears really worthy of cultivation that instead
of extending the size of large trees we ought rather to increase as much
as possible the number of varieties and limit the size of the trees. At
present one has a choice of such good sorts as Williams’ Bon ChrStien,
Souvenir du Congres, Beurrh d’Amanlis, Louise Bonne of Jersey, Dr.
Hogg, Fondante d’Automne, Flemish Beauty, and Belle Julie. Each
of these is in flavour distinct from the other, and one might go on
enumerating a long list of sorts to which the same remark would apply.

Therefore it can be no loss to limit the space devoted to Peaches, to
growing fewer of these, or rather, I should say, to producing smaller
trees ; and where it is not already done substituting for them medium¬
sized Pear trees in as many good varieties as it is possible to find room
for. — B.

Having returned after a quarter of a century to the same neighbour¬
hood in Somersetshire that I formerly occupied, I looked forward to
repeating my pleasant successes of the past in growing Peaches. Accord¬
ingly last autumn I filled some empty places in the wall with
Noblesse and Sea Eagle, my landlord, “distance lending enchantment
to the view,’’ dilating on the size of the Peaches that used to flourish on
that wall when he was a lad, where now other tenants had filled
vacant places with Pear trees and Plums. Having then planted the
Peach trees and taken them under my own special protection, and into
the bargain being considerably proud of their appearance, picture my
feelings on reading a fortnight ago that my work was all “ Love’s labour
lost,’’ and that I had much better have put in some Pears 1 Such a
dictum did not at all agree with my own feelings. Certainly the memories
of the past painted the Peach trees as more prolific, fruit for fruit, than
the Pears. Then I had Noblesse, Grosse Mignonne, and Barrington,
and the two former were certainly more fruitful than the Pears
Forelle, Beurr^ Ranee, Napoleon, although Williams’ Bon ChrStien,
Jargonelle, and Beurrh Diel generally equalled in number the stone
fruit, the latter a very handsome Pear to look at; but “handsome is
that handsome does ” applies to it in my opinion, for I consider it in the
raw state a worthless fruit, and one that I should never burden my walls
with unless I possessed some hundred yards of the same. I cannot
understand its being styled “ melting.” Of the many fruits that I have
tasted I have never met with one that deserved the title of Beurr^. All
were disappointing.

I have every regard for a really good Pear, it is a splendid fruit ; but
in my estimation it never could equal a good Peach, although 1 grant I
have heard not a few persons maintain the contrary. Well, as our
neighbours say, “ Cliagun a son gout ; ’’ but even this does not entitle us
to advise setting Pear trees in the place of the Peach, or to writing
almost as if the latter was of little value. I have little doubt, then,
that friends of the Peach will, like myself, feel relieved at the timely
words of such an authority as Mr. E. Molyneux (page 287), and so I
gaze at my young trees and urge them to go on and prosper.

My small experience as to “ blister ” agrees with that of Mr.
Molyneux ; it does not prevent a fair crop of fruit, but doubtless this
would be altogether better without the infliction. I used to set to work
and pick off these bloated specimens of foliage and get rid of them. I
know that it is often attributed to east winds, but I have always felt
that this was somewhat mythical. Is east wind really the cause? I
wonder what Mr. G. Abbey may say to this. I have always fancied that
there is something of the mildew character about it, and that there are
spores. If this be so there would be more reason for destroying it as
soon as detected. Under a fairly strong pocket magnifier ic looks like
some sort of efflorescense over the swollen and distorted leaf. — Y. B. A. Z,

I AM quite sure Mr. Molyneux (page 287) will find many readers
who will agree with him in his opinion as to the relative value of Pears
and Peaches. Those who have gained experience in the marketing of
such fruits are best able to judge which may pay the better price, and
as Pears may be grown quite as well on other aspects it seems a pity to
utilise south walls for these at the expense of Peaches or Nectarines.
Either for market or private use Peaches are a summer and autumn
crop, and for a just comparison Pears that ripen at the same time should
be reckoned with as occupying the position in question — namely, south
walls. Early summer Pears certainly cannot claim a very great value
because of the short period under which they may be kept sound ; and in
the autumn there are plenty to be had from garden and orchard bush
and standard trees which will reduce the value of wall-grown fruit how¬
ever good it may be. In the autumn, too, there are, as Mr. Molyneux
points oat, the French and Jersey Pears to be reckoned with, and it
must be indeed good English fruits that can compare with these both
for colour and size.

The unpopular opinion that has obtained in so many gardens as
regards outdoor Peaches is due more largely to want of proper attention
in the matter of spring protection, pruning, and thin training of the
branches than any other cause, although it must be admitted that every
garden is not absolutely suited to their requirements. Late sorts are
not always remunerative, and should be replaced by those which ripen
their crop in time to do some pruning before the sunny days are entirely
gone. If early and midseason sorts of good repute were chosen more
freely for growing outdoors I am inclined to think there would be less
cause for complaining about Peaches. Very late sorts, such as Salwey,
Golden Eagle, and Lord Palmerston, may help to form variety ; but my
experience of them is that they are treated more as an ornament to the
table than as a dessert fruit by those who know them. It is useless for
me to send them to table in a raw condition here ; they must be cooked
before they are considered acceptable at the table. I am referring, of
course, to these Peaches in their proper season — October.

Although I have seen several excellent walls of Peaches outdoors, I
think the best was under Mr. Robinson’s charge at Heywood. There
were plenty of fruits there of Walburton Admirable, Princess of Wales,
and Dymond, weighing 10 ozs. each, the colour and quality being superb.
I am quite sure there would be no comparison in the value of a Pear
crop occupying the same amount of space as these Peach trees, even if

810

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 5, 1893.

they were valued at a lower rate than that quoted by Mr. Molyneux ;
and I am convinced that more than one adverse season must occur
before Pears will be accepted and adopted as a more appreciative and
paying crop. At Marston a failure in outdoor Peaches is almost an
unknown thing, and this year Mr. Iggulden gathered several dishes of
fruit in June, and a heavy crop was borne by every tree under his
charge. Strong as he has frequently proved himself in Pears, he would
not be guilty of filling his warm south walls with these. I have found
that an east aspect is better suited than a wall facing west for growing
Peaches outdoors. They do not obtain the same amount of sunshine
in the latter position, and consequently their wood does not ripen so
perfectly, particularly where the walls are lofty. Nor do the leaves
blister so badly as a rule in the spring, sometimes not so much so as
they do on a southern exposure. — W. S., Rood Ashton,

WEMBLEY PARK.

Wembley Pakk, the most important of the latest additions to the
lungs of London, is situated on the north-western side of the metropolis
midway between Neasden and Harrow-on-the-Hill. A new station has
recently been opened there, it is thus within easy access of the city, and
can be reached in twenty minutes from Baker Street on the Metropolitan
Railway, travelling by the Aylesbury line. Although comparatively
close to London the whole district at present has a rural aspect, which
adds a charm to the surroundings of a picturesque park. At one time
Wembley Park formed the grounds to a private residence, but the whole
of it was purchased a few years ago by the Metropolitan Tower Con¬
struction Company to provide a pleasure resort, including a feature of a
unique eharacter. The latter will be known as the Wembley Park
Tower, which will doubtless prove a powerful attraction. It is not
within the province of a gardening paper to go into details regarding
this wonderful example of engineering, but when a Journal representa¬
tive gazed upon it a few days ago he came to the conclusion that when
completed it would be a stupendous erection. It will exceed in altitude
by 175 feet the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris, the latter being 955 feet
in height, whilst the tower at Wembley Park will be 1150 feet high. It
stands on a hill, so that when completed the summit of the erection will
be 1300 feet above the sea level. Already the four huge buttresses
covering over 2 acres of ground have reached a height of 100 feet, and
it is anticipated that the tower will be completed in eighteen months.
It will weigh about 7500 tons, and on the three platforms there will be
a concert hall and numerous other attractions.

The grounds, however, concern us most here, and, attractive as the
Tower is, a brief description of the manner in which these have been
laid out by Mr. H. B. Milner will perhaps be more interesting to
readers of this paper. The Park is about 130 acres in extent, has an
undulating surface, and is remarkably well wooded. There are some
fine Oak trees standing in clumps and singly in various parts, and these
have been preserved and shown to great advantage by Mr. Milner. On
entering from the railway station the visitor’s attention is first attracted
to a picturesque lake which covers 8 acres and has an uniform depth of
3 feet. This is fed by the river Brent, and the scene has been enhanced
by the erection of pretty bridges and the formation of islands. One of
the latter is planted with Bamboos, which will form a striking feature
when established, as also will the splendid clumps of Golden Elders and
other shrubs on the banks. On the north side of the Park there is a
wood which will be a charming retreat, and a main road is carried
round the grounds until it reaches the Tower. The walks and roadways
are laid out in a manner that gives evidence of a masterly hand, the
grand sweeps and curves being most conspicuous. Fine groups of
shrubs of different kinds have been planted in suitable places, and these
have already made good growth. In front of the principal refreshment
pavilion a splendid terrace has been formed. This has a bold walk
through the centre, leading from the building mentioned to a band
stand and then sweeping on each side to other walks. Flower beds are
being laid out on the terrace, and these will in due course be devoted to
the latest phase of bedding. The principal pathways are bordered with
shrubberies in places, and amongst other plants some clumps of
Hydrangea paniculata are noticeable. It is obvious that the most has
b^n made of everything. There is nothing petty discernible, but
everything is of a bold and sweeping nature which always characterises
the work of a good landscape gardener.

Apart from the features mentioned there are others of a more
important nature perhaps in the athletic world. Cricketers and football
players will be glad to learn that Mr. Milner has formed a splendid
ground, which is already in request, as the Old Westminsters, one of the
leading amateur clubs of the south, have arranged to make Wembley
Park their headquarters this season, the first match probably taking
place on October 14th, A magnificent running track, having only two
laps to the mile, encircles the cricket ground, which is also bordered with
groups of shrubs tastefully planted. Many other similar things are
provided, and al fresco entertainments of various kinds will be given
when the Park is opened to the public, as it will be shortly.

TUBEROUS BEGONIAS AS BEDDING PLANTS.

I READ with some surprise the sort of half prophecy that “ W. P. W.”
(page 264) is inclined to make anent the future of Tuberous Begonias
as bedders. With me they have this year done even better than in other
easons. Perhaps it may be the situation that is in favour of a free

growth and abundant blossom. Our best display of these plants is in a
bed occupying about a hundred tubers, some of them six years old at
least. Dotted here and there amongst the Begonias are Eucalyptus
globulus, Eicinus cambodgensis, and Abutilon Thompson!, with the
object of giving relief to the otherwise formal surface. No doubt the
latter plants have provided an agreeable shade to the Begonias, as the
Eucalyptus and Castor Oil plants are now 6 feet in height. The
Begonias have grown fully 2 feet high, have flowered profusely, and are
doing so at the present time (September 25th).

In spite of the popularity of Tuberous Begonias as summer bedders,
and the ease with which they can be grown, I fear many persons do
not manage them as well as they might. Too often growers neglect to
provide some slight shade for a week or two after they are planted, if
the weather be h^ot and dry. Some plants receive a check at that time
from which they do not recover during the summer. As planting pro¬
ceeds I provide a slight shade by thrusting in a few green Sycamore or
Chestnut boughs amongst the plants. The soil is then kept cool, and
plants under such conditions quickly become established. The covering
of the soil between the Begonias with some low growing plants such as
Sedum Lydium, S. glaucum, or Herniaria glabra is too often neglected,
and in a hot season as that just experienced the advantage of so
doing has been demonstrated. Not only do they provide an agreeable
contrast between the various colours of the Begonias and themselves,
but they arrest the evaporation of moisture from the soil by the sun and
keep the roots comparatively cool. I have at the present time a very
fine display of these Begonias from plants that were raised from seed
sown early in February of this year. — E. Molyneux.

Begonias at Forest Hill.

To see Begonias in beds everyone should at once pay a visit to Messrs.
J. Laing & Sons, Stanstead Nursery, Forest Hill. Catford Bridge, on the
South-Eastern, and London, Chatham, and Dover Railways is the nearest
station. Those who go will be astonished at the magnitude of the under¬
taking, a plot of ground over two acres in extent being entirely
filled with double and single varieties. The number of plants required
for this purpose reaches almost to the stupendous total of 350,000, and
it cannot easily be imagined what a spectacle is presented to the eyes of
visitors. The plants have this season, as everyone well knows, been
terribly handicapped by the dry weather of the past summer, so that
now the number of flowers expanded amount to about that which one
might naturally expect to see during July. The plants, too, have not
made the growths which usually characterise well managed Begonias,
nevertheless they are strong, dwarf, and carrying large numbers of
excellently coloured, perfectly formed blooms. Bright and beautiful, a
picture of health, and an example of untiring intelligence and energy, is
this wonderful sight. When we have a bed of Begonias consisting of
say 200 plants, we think we have a brave show indeed, and if the
plants are healthy and well flowered we are proportionately proud of
them, but when we see them by the acre we are able to appreciate them
in a larger degree.

The plants have been placed in beds, each containing one distinct
colour, and considering that the plants are seedlings it is surprising how
tew rogues there are to be found. Here and there amongst the scarlets
one sees a pink or a white, but so far from detracting from the beauty of
the display they but accentuate the good points by their minority. First
comes five beds of dark crimson sturdy little plants, having numberless
faultlessly shaped blooms on them. Next came five beds of a very
bright scarlet-coloured variety, and which formed, in my opinion, one of
the brightest spots in the whole collection. Some beds of a soft pink-
bloomed kind attracted me next, then crimson again, after which came
a rose-coloured variety of a high order of merit. The yellows were
showy, and the whites looked charming in their chaste purity. Those
already mentioned belong wholly to the single section, and occupied
about half of the space allotted to the Begonias, the other half being
devoted to the double varieties, which had been planted in the same
manner, but did not present such a show of bloom as did the
others, as many of the best had been lifted in order to preserve them
from the frosts, which may now be expected at any time. Notwith¬
standing the fact that many had gone, some grand plants are yet to be
seen, and foremost amongst which were some whites of exceptional
quality. They carried their blooms in an upright fashion, allowing the
pureness of the white and the perfect contour of the flowers to be seen
at a glance. No fault could be found when they were closely examined ;
on the contrary, the more one looked the better the flowers appeared to
become. Then, too, were noticed some scarlets, crimsons, and grand
yellows, forming a perfect galaxy of beauty.

Conspicuous amongst those that had been placed in pots were some
plants having blooms of pleasing colours. As is well known the Tea
Roses of the L’Ideal type afford some of the most beautiful combi¬
nations of shades one can wish for, and which are practically inde¬
scribable. Such is now the case with the Begonias. Yellows can be
clearly seen, as also can rose, pink, scarlet, and crimson, and occa¬
sionally other shades, so that I may he forgiven for not putting
the colour down concisely in one word. However, the flowers in
those shades alone are worth a run down to Forest Hill, for they
are really exquisite in their delicate colouration. Those who are
wishing to see these beds this season will do well to make their
pilgrimage at once ; they will be cordially received I do not doubt,
and will be amply rewarded by the veritable feast of Begonias which
will greet them as brightly, if not as heartily, as will either of the
Messrs. Lainga,

October 5, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

811

A brief reference to the Begonias in the housea must be made. I can
but repeat what has been said so many times before, and that is that they
are “ perfection.” What more can be said 1 What more can indeed be
necessary? and I must let it suiBce ; let those who are sceptical take the
advice given above, and go to see and judge for themselves. — H. J.

INWOOD HOUSE GARDENS, BLANDFORD.

Through Mr. Wilkins’ untiring energy, Inwood House Gardens,
Blandford, have obtained very high reputation. It is not a place of
one thing, a garden of one variety. Everything is well done here, and
whilst vegetables have created the greatest interest, plants and fruit are
finely grown also. I do not know whether it is just to class Mr. Wilkins
as the champion vegetable grower of the kingdom. Some may take
exception to that high estimate. But all the same, as an average
grower and exhibitor of vegetables, I do not know of his superior, and
certainly very few are his equals. However, his record of successes tells
its own tale. It is proof that is incontroveriible. Even the best of
growers, the most successful of exhibitors, has to take a back seat some¬
times ; but that is not due to want of ability, but rather to the accident
that just then products are not at their best. When, however, a grower
exhibits, and takes the highest aggregate of prizes for vegetables all over
the kingdom from June to November, it is evident that such a grower is
entitled to the designation of champion. But Mr. Wilkins is not at all
a proud man. He is very human so far, that nothing makes him
egotistic or elate. He bears honours and reverses with simple ease, and
still remains what we rejoice to find is so largely the characteristic of
the British gardener, even when on the competitive war path — a plain,
homely, intelligent, and most amiable man.

Inwood House gardens are not old, indeed have all been made during
the past ten years, and entirely under the present gardener, who came
expressly from Motcombe to undertake charge. The situation is an
elevated mound or hill, on a base of limestone or sandrock, with a very
shallow surface soil. Of course it would have been useless to expect to
construct a good garden out of such material, and therefore the upper
crust or layer of this rock had to be excavated ; a heavy work that was
well done, and the bottom made up with soil brought in from anywhere,
hence the present depth, the luxuriant growth seen in all directions, and
the magnificent produce which has made Inwood so famous. The
gardener’s house is reached by a ride of some two miles from Temple-
combe Junction, but that hospitable place is still fully one-third of
a mile from the gardens, a distance that has some disadvantages
and some advantages. Trees are not on such a shallow soil of the
most robust order, and that is largely the chief weakness of the place.
Get in the kitchen garden, however, and then everything is almost
luxuriant.

The plant houses are numerous, and include in their contents a very
large number of grand show specimens, foliage and flowering. The
collection is remarkably extensive, and the bulk of these is found in a
long span-house of horseshoe shape, some 200 feet round, literally
crammed with plants, above and below, for beautiful climbers here grow
as if in their native habitats. Of specimens there is a gigantic Latania
borbonica, with huge leafage spreading to an area of 30 feet. This
stands on a pedestal in the centre of a large basin of water. There are
many other Palms, Ferns in great variety, and fine plants — Allamandas,
Clerodendrons, Bougainvilleas, Stephanotis, Lapagerias, Ixoras, Crotons,
Chorozemas, Statices, Eucharis, Alocasias, Cycads, and Kalosanthes,
showing that it would be easy to make up a collection of 100 fine
samples, or of 200 if needed. Distributed through various houses is a
most interesting collection of tropical fruiting or economic plants, such
as Musas, carrying grand bunches of fruit ; Mangosteen, Monstera
deliciosa, the Custard Apple, Anona reticulata, the Papaw tree, showing
six fine fruits like large Pears ; the Guava tiee, which has freely fruited ;
Vanilla, the Nutmeg, Rose Apple or Eugenia Jambos, Stapelia Litchni,
the Coffee tree, which has fruited ; the Camphor tree, Camphora
oflficinalis, and others. These show, apart from myriads of plants of all
descriptions, that Inwood Gardens is something more than a manufac¬
tory for prize vegetables.

I will not refer to the fruit houses because there is not time and
space to do so. It is enough to say that vineries and Peach houses are ail
excellent. Outdoors Pears on bush and pyramid trees chiefly on the
Pear stock are truly grand. What a pity some of these specimens could
not have been photographed, they would have made almost sensational
pictures, especially could the size of the fruit on them have been fully
pourtrayed. These trees are situated on each side of the kitchen garden
walks, and have been planted from seven to eight years. Hitherto, the
soil having been too good, and the growth so robust, it has been difficult
to induce them to fruit freely, but this year they have been at their best.
It was mentioned that whilst Pears on the walls suffered very much
from the spring frosts, the open trees, being later in bloom, escaped, and
set fruit freely. I noted but a few out of the many, though some
had had their crops already gathered — Calebasse, Duchesse
d’AngoulSme, Louise Bonne, Thompson’s, Zephirin Gr^goire, Mar^chal
de Cour, Vicar of Winkfield, Soldat Esperen, Beurr6 Clairgeau,
Pitmaston Duchess, Durondeau, Bereamotte Eiperen, and Seckle, these
sufficing to show that the collection is a large one. Mr. Wilkins is an
enthusiastic mulcher, indeed he says that this dry season he owes so
much of the size of his Pears, as of all other crops, to heavy mulchings of
stable manure. However, as some fifty horses are kept, and the stables

are close by, manure in plenty may be had for the fetching. A some¬
what unique arrangement is that of the walled-in bush fruit garden,
over the whole of which in the fruit season strong netting may be
stretched, to the confusion of the birds, great and small, whilst from below
everything is readily accessible. Here, too, as elsewhere. Chrysanthe¬
mums are in very strong evidence, some 600, all in splendid condition,
being grown, so that there will be plenty of show flowers if needed, and
plenty to furnish houses and indoor decoration.

Vegetables here are so fine that it is difficult indeed to do them full
justice. Onions alone merit a page, so grand are the samples and so
plentiful are they. Mr. Wilkins has finished his bulbs perfectly, and
giant Ailsa Craig, a dozen of which average 36 lbs., the heaviest weight
ever reached, are as mature and as handsome as bulbs only 3 ozs. instead
of 3 lbs. Although not so fine, yet most wonderful are the selected
samples of Rousham Park Hero, Lord Keeper, Anglo-Spanish, and
Inwood Favourite, a redder variety, product of a cross between Red
Globe and Anglo-Spanish, of the flatter bulbs ; and of Cocoanut, very
deep globe shaped; Wroxton, a grand keeper; Excelsior, hard and
handsome ; Advancer, yellowish globe ; Sutton’s Al, very fine ; Jarman’s
International, Pinesfield, and Somerset Hero, all globe shaped, in almost
bewildering profusion. These bulbs are all of the new order, of product
transplanted from boxes, the seed being sown under glass in January,
Now they are fully ripe and stored on broad trellis shelves in an ancient
round tower standing in the gardens, and the Onions are probably the finest
in the kingdom. Leeks are yet all agrowing;. These comprise the Lyon,
Prizetaker, and Champion ; but Mr. Wilkins holds that he can have

FIG. 41. — MUSHROOMS AT INWOOD HOUSE.

stems long and white, short and stout from any variety, just as they are
blanched or otherwise. Some superb Tomatoes of the Perfection type
are shown grown on pot plants in a lean-to house that balance other
vegetables. Carrots are chiefly now of the Intermediate forms, although
Early Gem and Champion or Nantes are grown and largely used for
exhibition earlier in the season, when also Asparagus, Sea Kale, and
Dwarf French Beans, such as Canadian Wonder and Ne Plus Ultra, are
largely grown. Runner Beans are marvellous, several rows of the
Inwood selection of Ne Plus Ultra, a beautiful strain, have grown
from 16 to 18 feet in height. Cauliflowers are very fine. This most
useful vegetable begins with Early Forcing or Snowball, follows with a
perfect variety, Sutton’s Magnum Bonum, then Autumn Giant
and Mammoth, and so the supply extends over a long season.

Parsnips are represented by the Student and Hollow Crown, a large bed
being in fine growth ; Potatoes by Satisfaction, Sutton’s Seedling, London
Hero, Snowdrop, Windsor Castle, and International out of many ; Peas
by Prodigy, Autocrat — this being excellent for dry soils or seasons ; and
Duke of Albany. Celery for early work and exhibition is chiefly blanched
by paper bands and round drain pipes. Veitch’s Early Rose, Standard
Bearer, and Aylesbury Red of coloured, and Wright’s Giant White and
Solid White for pale vaiieties. Stems weighing 15 lbs. each of Standard
Bearer have been produced here after being cleaned and trimmed. Beet
is represented by Middleton Park, Pragnell’s Exhibition, Cheltenham,
Greentop, Sutton’s Blood Red ; and Brussels Sprouts by Ne Plus Ultra
and Exhibition ; Cucumbers by Model ; Turnips by Dobbie’s Selected
Model and Snowball. Thus it is seen that the variety is con¬
siderable, the cultivation of the best, and the product superb. The keep
of the place also is good. Anyone visiting In wood will go away
satisfied that Mr. Wilkins must grow all his produce, for the simple reason
that no one else can equal him in production. I might write much more
about this place, but the foregoing must satisfy curiosity now ; whilst
it is a delightful place, the practical gardening in every branch is of the
best, and much of it as shown cannot be excelled. — A. D.

[It will be seen by the photographic illustration (fig. 44), which
represents a portion of a bed of Mushrooms at Inwood House, that
Mr, Wilkins is also an adept in this phase of gardening.]

812

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ October 5, 1893.

Events of the Week. — The Committees of the Royal Horti¬
cultural Society will meet at the Drill Hall, James Street, S.W., on
Tuesday, 10th, particulars of which are given in a paragraph below.
On the 11th inst. a three-days exhibition will be opened at the Royal
Aquarium, Westminster, under the auspices of the National Chrysan¬
themum Society,

- The Weather in London. — Changeable weather has again

characterised the past week. Sunday was comparatively mild with
occasional slight showers. On Monday similar weather occurred, and
rain fell heavily during the night. Tuesday was fine and colder, as also
was Wednesday morning. At the time of going to press it is bright
with rather a keen wind prevailing.

- Royal Horticultural Society. — The next meeting of the

Royal Horticultural Society will take place in the Drill Hall, James
Street, Victoria Street, Westminster, on Tuesday 10th October, when
prizes are offered for hardy herbaceous perennials. At three o’clock
Mr. W. Crump will deliver a lecture on Pears.”

- The Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Institution. — As

has been notified in our advertisement pages an election of pensioners
on the funds of this Institution will take place in January next.
Intending candidates must send in their applications on or before
October 14th, to Mr. George J. Ingram, 50, Parliament Street
London, S.W.

- Fruit Culture in Villa Gardens. — Mr. G. Bunyard of

Maidstone gave an excellent lecture on this subject at the meeting of
the National Amateur Gardeners’ Association on Tuesday evening last,
at the Memorial Hall, Farringdon Street, E.C. There was a fair
attendance, and Mr. T. W, Sanders presided. Mr. Bunyard detailed the
best methods to adopt, and specially recommended the bush, pyramid,
and cordon systems.

- A NEvy Wood. — According to the Manchester Courier” a

new wood has been discovered in Borneo, which promises to supplant
oak as a building material. It is familiarly known as “ bilian,” very
close in grain, having a breaking strain greater than that of oak, and
with a specific gravity to that of box wood as 3 is to 4, or one-
quarter lighter. It is not unlike ebony in appearance, especially after
exposure to the air.

- Awards to British Exhibitors at Chicago. — We are

informed that the Committee of the floricultural section at the World’s
Fair have made awards to Messrs. John Laiug & Sons, for Chinese
Primulas ; to Messrs. James Carter & Co., for Chinese Primulas,
Cyclamens and other flowers ; to Messrs. Kelway & Son, for Chinese
Primulas (model crimson) ; to Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, for Chinese
Primulas ; to Messrs. Waterer & Sons, for Pseonies and Phloxes ; to
Messrs. Dickson & Sons, for collections of Azalea mollis and Rhodo¬
dendrons ; and to Miss Margaret Dickson, for collections of Roses. The
awards to foreign exhibitors are as follows : — Germany, forty-six ;
France, twelve ; Holland, six ; Austria, one ; and Italy, one.

- Complimentary Dinners at Earl’s Court. — In recognition

of his services, a complimentary dinner was given on the evening of
the 28th ult. to Mr. H. E. Milner, Chairman of the Executive Committee
of the Gardening and Forestry Exhibition. Professor Stewart, President
of the Linnean Society, occupied the chair, the company numbering
about 100. The Chairman, in proposing the toast of the evening, said
they might congratulate Mr. Milner on the success which had attended
his efforts to diffuse a knowledge of gardening and forestry, and to
foster and encourage those two sciences. By means of this Exhibition
employment had not only been given to a large number of persons, but
pleasure had been afforded to many thousands. In conclusion, the
Chairman presented Mr. Milner with an antique silver bowl as a
souvenir of his connection with the Exhibition, which had been sub¬
scribed for by a number of personal friends and members of the staff.
Mr, Milner, in returning thanks, acknowledged the hearty co-operation
of his fellow directors and of the staff, who had worked so hard to make
the Exhibition a success. On Monday evening next, the 9th inst., a

dinner will be given to Mr. H. Turner, Vice-President of the Horti¬
cultural Department. - Tickets can be obtained from Messrs. H. B.
Skinner and R. Dean, Secretaries, Earl’s Court Exhibition, S.W.

- VeNIDIUM CALENDULACEUM VAR. MULTIFLORUM. — When I

exhibited this plant at the meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society
it was not as an object for pot culture, but simply as a much-neglected
autumn flowering annual for the open ground that is very valuable at
this season of the year. The plant was placed in a pot simply for the
convenience of transit to the Drill Hall. — R. Dean, JE,aling, W.

- Cydonia japonica Fruiting. — Mr. E. Molyneux observes : —

“For the last three years our bushes of this showy spring flowering shrub
have borne fruit, but this year the crop is much heavier. I note Mr..
Thomas staged a dish of fruit of it at the last meeting of the Royal
Horticultural Society, when a vote of thanks was accorded. Hanging
on the trees the fruit is pretty when it assumes the deep yellow
characteristic of its ripened state. Is it possible to make any use of
the fruit ? ”

- Tomatoes. — The Rev, J. E. Symns writes from Woodford

Wells to the “ Times : ” — ” I am sending some Tomatoes grown under
remarkable circumstances. They are quite ripe, and the largest weighs
just 9 OZ3, The seeds were self-sown ; they must have fallen from the
fruit of last year. When the plants were strong enough they were
removed and put in the open ground under a south wall. They were
never under glass, nor protected in any way. I shall be glad to learn
if there is a similar instance on record in any part of England.”

- Stray Tomatoes. — A Bedminster correspondent writes : —

“Your readers may be interested in knowing that more than a dozen
Tomato plants may be seen growing in a field leading to Ashton Hill, a
few score yards from the pond. The plants vary in size, some being
remarkably vigorous and loaded with fruit ; 4 or 5 lbs. having been
gathered during the past week, consisting of the smooth as well as a
wrinkled variety. A couple of small plants (though not in flower or
fruit) may also be seen near the lower gate of the churchyard. Have
any of your readers observed any similar strays from cultivation
growing apparently wild in any other locality 1 ”

- Gardening Appointments. — Mr. James Hill, for nearly

four years forman at Hopwood Hall, has been appointed head gardener
to Sigismund C. de Trafford, Esq., Croston Hall, Preston, Lancashire.
We learn that Mr. T. Kent has been appointed gardener to Captain Van
Koughuet, R.N.. of Tyttenhanger Park, St. Albans, in succession to his
father, Mr. H. Kent, who had forty-three years’ service as gardener at
Tyttenhanger Park, to the late Dowager Countess of Hardwick, the late
Dowager Countess of Caledon, the late Jane, Countess of Caledon, and
the present Earl of Caledon.

- The members of the WARE Horticultural Mutual Im¬
provement Society on the afternoon of 28th ult, responded to an
invitation of their President, Mr. Hanbury of Poles Park, Ware, to visit
his gardens and grounds. Seventy of the members attended and spent an
enjoyable afternoon inspecting the many noticeable features, and were
afterwards regaled to a substantial tea. The gathering was instructive
alike to all, as everything is grown in the most creditable manner by
Mr. W. M. Alexander the gardener. The improvements made in the
gardens of the four or five years by the present owner show considerable
taste and add immensely to the beauty of the place. Mr. and Mrs.
Hanbury take great interest in the Society, and have invited the
members on seven similar occasions. — E. Wallis.

- Emigrants’ Information Office, 31, Broadway, West¬
minster, S.W. — The October circulars of the Emigrants’ Information
Office, and the pi-nny and other handbooks, with maps, show the present
prospects of emigration. A new pamphlet on California is also issued.

J New branch offices have been opened at the public libraries at Peter¬
borough and Swansea. It is too late in the year for emigrants without
money — other than female servants — to seek work in Canada, unless
they go to join friends. Work in New South Wales, especially in towns,
continues to be very scarce. In Victoria good farm hands can get
employment throughout the year at about 15s, a week, and all found ;
but in the towns, and especially in Melbourne, there is no opening for
men without capital at the present time. There ia an excellent opening
in the south of Australia for Vine growers with a little capital. The
recent arrivals in New Zealand have been so numerous that there is no
pressing demand for more ; but the country is so full of resources, and
the population is still so small, that anyone arriving there with know¬
ledge of a trade, and with a little money, should do well.

October 5, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

313

- A Laeoe Pear. — A correspondent writing from Henfield,

Sassex, says : — “ This week I gathered from a tree on a wall, with an
east aspect, in my garden here, a Grosse Calebasse Pear of the following
remarkable dimensions and weight. It has at the thick end a circum¬
ference of 12f inches and one of 18 inches lengthways. Its weight is
rather more than If lb. There are a few more on the tree, these are
very large though not equal to the one to which I refer.”

- The Total Eainfall at Abbot’s Leigh, Hayward’s

Heath, Sussex, for the past month was 3’05 inches, being 0'08 inches
below the average ; 2 inches of this fell during the last week. The
heaviest fall was 0 88 inch on the 28th. Rain fell on sixteen days.
Total fall for the nine months 16 08 inches, as against 20'27 inches. The
average maximum temperature in the shade was 75° on 6th and 14th.
Minimum temperature 33° on 24th ; mean maximum 66‘05° ; mean
minimum 46-17? ; mean temperature 5611°, being 1-05° above the
average. — R. I.

- Michaelmas Strawberries. — As an instance of the remark¬
able character of the season, a correspondent informs ns that a dish
of ripe, good-sized Strawberries of excellent flavour were picked this
week in the open garden at the residence of the Mayor of Newbury.
Strawberries have also been picked in the open garden ot the Dundas
Arms Hotel, at the neighbouring village of Kintbury, within the last
few days. “ L. M.” writes from Hawkhurst : — “I have just picked a
small dish of ripe Strawberries of good size and colour, the first time
I ever had a second crop ripen. There are, too, many on the plants
nearly ripe.”

- The Weather in Hertfordshire. — Mr. B. Wallis, The

Gardens, Hamels Park, Buntingford, Herts, writes : — The weather
during the past month has been of a dry character with an abundance
of sunshine. Wasps during the early part of the month were very
abundant, doing much damage ; but I was never less troubled with
caterpillars. Rain fell upon nine days during the month. Maximum
in any twenty-four hours was 0-54 on the 1st ; minimum in any twenty-
four hours was 0 03 on the 16th. Total during the past month was
1-46 against 2 62 of 1892. By the end of September, 1892, 1 had registered
18-90 of rainfall ; end of September, 1893, I have only registered 13-38.
In spite of the very dry season garden crops on the whole have done
remarkable well.

- Death op Mr. Frederick Lothrop Ames. — We regret to

learn from the “Garden and Forest” of the death of Mr. Frederick
Lothrop Ames, one of the founders and owners of that journal, who
recently died suddenly during a journey from his home in Massachusetts
to New York. Mr. Ames was one of the most liberal patrons of horti¬
culture America has produced, and his collection of Orchids was a great
source of pride to everyone interested in the progress of the art in which
he found his principal pleasure. Mr. Ames’ love of Nature was real
and profound, and his exact and comprehensive knowledge of the plants
in which he was particularly interested has given him an international
reputation among orchidologists. Through his liberality the Arnold
Arboretum, to which he has always given generous support, and the
Botanical Department of Harvard College, in which he was specially
interested, have been able to extend their usefulness. For nearly thirty
years Mr. Ames was an active member of the Massachusetts Horticultural
Society ; he has long been one of its Vice-Presidents, and as a member
of the Finance Committee has rendered it invaluable service.

- A Remarkable Bouquet. — A correspondent at Cork writes :

— “ The composition of a small nosegay of fresh flowers gathered in
County Cork will seem incredible even to those who have watched the
progress of this remarkable summer. The bouquet consists of Bramble
leaves dyed with the most gorgeous autumn tints — nothing unseason¬
able in that ! — surrounding Apple blossom developed from buds which
should have lain dormant until the awakening breath of next spring
aroused them. The flowers are as dainty and perfect as the usual
spring bloom, but appear strange in their setting of old leaves instead
of the soft delicacy of the undeveloped foliage usually attending these
precocious blossoms. Then there are wild Roses and buds gathered from a
bush which bore similar blossoms on April 26th of the present year, and
lastly groups of Strawberry blossom as jaunty and fresh as those of the
early summer, and apparently unconscious at present of the rapid
approach of cold frosts which have already spread their icy fingers over
counties to the north of County Cork. Reports, too, from Killarney
and other places tell of Laburnum trees in full bloom, while adjacent
are bushes laden with fruits of deepening hues, and close by the
Arbutus displays its richest of crimson-red berries.”

- Veitch’s Autocrat Pea. — Mr. H. W. Ward writes: “This

grand midseason Pea I have grown somewhat largely during the present
year with most satisfactory results. It is an excellent grower and
prodigious cropper, producing with great freedom large, straight, hand¬
some, dark green, well-filled pods, which contain on an average ten large
deep green coloured Peas of excellent quality. I exhibited two dishes
of Autocrat Pea early in August last at Southampton and Taunton
Shows, which easily secured a first prize. I am still gathering Peas of
this variety from sowings which were made the Ist of June. Sowings
of Ne Plus Ultra and British Queen were made the same time in the
same plot of ground, the rows beiag 10 feet asunder, running north and
south, and heavily mulched on each side, the same as all my rows of
Peas and Beans are served, but the yield from Autocrat as well as the
quality of the produce is far in advance of that of those two well-tested
varieties.”

- The “ Kew Bulletin ” for September, a copy of which has

come to hand, is wholly devoted to a description of the Flora of St.
Vincent and adjacent islets. “ St. Vincent is one of the group of
islands known in the West Indies as the Colony of the Windward
Islands. The other members of this gioup are St. Lucia, twenty-one
miles to the north, and Grenada, sixty-eight miles to the south-west.
Barbadoes, under a separate Government, is 100 miles due east. St.
Vincent was discovered by Columbus on the 22nd January, 1498. It is
situated in 13° 10' north latitude and 60° 57' west longitude. It is
eighteen miles in length and eleven in breadth, and contains, according
to the Colonial Office List, nearly 85,000 acres of land, about half the
area of Middlesex, with only 13,000 acres under permanent cultivation.
The population in 1891 was 41,054. The majority of the adjoining
islets, known as the Grenadines, are dependencies of St. Vincent.”

- From the same source we learn that in the last century St.

Vincent was remarkable for possessing the FIRST BOTANIC Garden
(founded 1765), certainly in the West Indies, and perhaps in any
tropical part of the world. An account of this garden is given in the
“ Kew Bulletin ” for 1»92, pp. 92-100. It lingered on with a precarious
existence till the end of the first quarter of the present century. In
1890 it was revived as one of the system of botanical stations established
in the West Indies. The scientific knowledge of the flora of St. Vincent
-jvas limited to the present time to the species enumerated in Grisebach’s
“ Flora of the British West India Islands” (1864). He relied upon a
collection made by the Rev. Landsdown Guilding preserved in the
Kew Herbarium. As will be seen the fact that these specimens were
in every case actually derived from the island ia not free from doubt.
Besides these Grisebach also worked up some other plants in the Kew
Herbarium collected by Alexander Anderson, the second Superin¬
tendent of the old Botanic Garden, of whom some particulars are
given in the “ Kew Bulletin ” for 1892 (pp. 94-5), also by George
Caley, one of Anderson’s successors (AT. B. 1. c. p. 97). These data
supplied at first a very imperfect idea of the total flora. It was
obviously therefore desirable to take advantage of any opportunity
for completing the botanical exploration of the island. In 1889 Mr. F.
Ducane Godman, F.R.S., to whom the scientific world is indebted for
the munificent investigation of the natural history of Central America,
determined to send a zoological collector to St. Vincent. Mr. H. H.
Smith, a native of the United States, and an expert of known skill and
experience, was engaged. He was accompanied by his wife, and Mr.
Godman, thinking that they might also do some useful work, for botany,
persuaded them after a visit to Kew to undertake the task. On arriving
at St. Vincent they ultimately engaged as assistant in botanical collect¬
ing, Mr. G. W. Smith (now Curator of the Botanical Garden, Grenada),
a native of the Windward Islands.

- The total number of SPECIES OF FLOWERING RlANTS col¬
lected in St. Vincent and the four adjacent islets — Bequia, Cannouan,
Mustique, and Union — including naturalised plants and those inserted
on the authority of the early collectors is about 1150. Of these Mr.
Smith collected 977, whereof at least 131 are almost certainly colonists,
leaving 846 indigenous species, belonging to 490 genera and 109 natural
orders. The number of species of flowering plants collected in the small
islands was respectively : — Bequia, 375 ; Mustique, 160 ; Union, 49 ; and
Cannouan, 30. With regard to the general distribution of the indigenous
plants, the principal points are the wide geographical range of the
majority and the smallness of the endemic element, conditions that
obtain throughout the whole chain of islands from Tobago to the
Virgin group, which are in striking contrast to the proportions of the
endemic element in Cuba and Jamaica.

314

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 6, 1893-

- Fine Tomatoes. — I am sending you a box containing some

clusters of Tomatoes (Perfection), and shall be glad of your opinion of
the same. I gave a note of the culture as carried out here when sending
you some individual specimens (vide page 294, October 2ad, 1890), and
there it will be seen that the root space for our plants is very limited. I
think the clusters now sent, and of which we could gather many, show
the value of artificially assisting fertilisation. — Thomas Crosswell,
Homewood, Eden Park, Becltenliam. [The cluster referred to by our
correspondent was very fine, eight highly coloured fruits of perfect
form weighing 4 lbs. 4 ozs. On the previous occasion referred to Mr.
Crosswell sent us some of the finest Tomatoes we have ever seen, the
largest fruit in that case weighing 19 ozs."]

- The Wakefield Paxton Society. — There was an unusually

good attendance at the ordinary weekly meeting of the members of the
Wakefield Paxton Society on Saturday evening. Lieutenant H. S.
Goodyear occupied the chair, and Mr. G, Gill officiated as Vice-Chair¬
man. The essayist was Mr. George Parkin, a well-known photographer,
naturalist, and botanist, and one of the oldest, most active, and useful
members of the Society. His subject was “ Autumn Foliage,” and there
was a large and beautiful collection of foliage from plants, shrubs,
trees, together with a good display of wild fruits and berries. Mr.
Parkin read a most interesting paper, which clearly showed that when
taking his country rambles he is a close observer of Nature. A
discussion was opened by Mr. W. L. Skinner of the Silcoates
Nurseries, who was one of the principal exhibitors of specimens. Several
of the other members took part in the discussion, including Mr. Mear
of the Woolley Park Gardens, who has obtained an appointment on a
fruit farm in Australia.

- The Oldest Trees in the World. — This subject has again

cropped up, and is being discussed in “ Notes and Queries.” The
following list of ages known to have been reached by patriarchs of the
respective kinds is given by Mr. J. Collinson : — “Elm, 300 years; Ivy,
336 years; Maple, 516 years; Larch, 576 years; Orange, 630 years;
Cypress, 800 years ; Olive, 800 years ; Walnut, 900 years ; Oriental
Plane, 1000 years ; Lime, 1100 years ; Spruce, 1200 years ; Oak, 1500
years ; Cedar, 2000 years ; Yew, 3200 years. The way in which the
ages of these trees have been ascertained leaves no doubt of its correct¬
ness. In some few cases the data has been furnished by historical
records and by traditions, but the botanical archseulogists have a
resource independent of either, and when carefully used infallible. Of
all the forms of Nature trees alone disclose their ages candidly and
freely. In the stems of trees which have branches and leaves with
netted veins — in all exogens, as the botanist would say — the increase
takes place by means of an annual deposit of wood, spread in an even
layer upon the surface of the preceding one.”

- The Jasmine Harvest. — Writing from Grasse, a corre¬
spondent of a daily contemporary says : — “ The Jasmine harvest here
is in full swing. Grasse is permeated by an overwhelming perfume
of flowers. In the factories they are working day and night to
extract the valuable essence of the flowers as quickly as possible.
There are three ways of doing this. The first and coarsest method,
which is used for Lavender, Thyme, Peppermint, and Geranium, is by
boiling down the flowers. The second, which is used for Eoses,
Heliotrope, Lilac, and ordinary Violets, is the old plan of distillation.
And the third, which is reserved for Parma Violets, Jasmine, Tuberoses,
and such expensive essences, is the so-called cold method, the slowest
and therefore the dearest, but the most effective of all. For this last
the flowers, which are first carefully weighed, are heaped upon a table
round which are seated about twenty girls, each with a frame before
her, like a good sized window pane. The glass of this frame is, so to
speak, buttered on both sides with a mixture of veal fat and a little
oil. On the glass the girl strews as many flowers as will lightly cover
it, and covers them with another glass similarly treated. Then comes
another layer of flowers and another glass, till there are ten glasses
in a heap. The next day the flowers, which are by that time quite
faded and have given out all their scent into the grease above them,
are removed, and fresh flowers are strewn in their place. This pro¬
ceeding is repeated eight or ten times. The perfumed grease is then
put into large, closed, copper vats, with an equal quantity of spirit.
In the vats are wheels which are turned by machinery. The rapid
revolutions of the wheels beats out of the grease most of the perfume
it has soaked in ; the grease sinks to the bottom, and is used to make
soap, pomade, &c., and the spirit which contains the true essence of
the flowers is bottled, and fetches the highest prices given for scent.”

- Plumbago Larpent^e. — What the Gentians are to the

embellishment of the rockery in the spring this Plumbago is in tha
autumn in the matter of colour. It is flowering finely in spite of the
dry season we have experienced. No hardy plant that I know gives
the same tint of colouring at this time of the year without it be-
Lithospermum prostratum, and that is not now in bloom, its season
having passed. This Plumbago is an easy plant to grow. Any ordinary
garden soil seems to suit it, but a freer growth is secured by the addition
of a small amount of manure. — E. M.

- Woods and Trees in Scotland. — The Board of Agriculture

desire to direct attention to the increased facilities for the planting of
woods and trees in Scotland afforded by the Improvement of Land
(Scotland) Act, 1893, which received the Royal assent on August 24th
last. Hitherto owners of land in Scotland have been able, with the
sanction of the Board of Agriculture, to charge their estates for the
planting of woods and trees only in cases where the planting is for the
purpose of providing shelter. By the Act in question this limitation
has been removed, and applications may now be made to the Board for
sanction to charge estates, under the provisions of the Improvement
of Land Act, 1864, with the cost of planting whether for shelter or
otherwise.

- Aralia Sieboldi. — Mr, J. G. Pettenger, Strawberry Dale

Nursery, Harrogate, writes : — “ It is not uncommon to find this beautiful
plant grown in the stove or intermediate house, thus subjecting it to
attacks of insects or disease, which very soon stops all growth. This
plant thrives splendidly in a cold frame, partially shaded from direct
sun. The plants are raised in heat in April or May, and after the first
potting in 60’s are placed in a cold frame. They are in due time shifted
into 5-inch pots, in which they make beautiful plants totally different to
any that can be grown in heat. In the winter a house from which frost
is just excluded suits them admirably. If signs of thrips appear the
leaves are sponged with softsoap and warm water. Aralia Sieboldi
enjoys liberal supplies of water in well drained pots. The most suitable
soil is good sandy loam.”

- Chinese Bean Oil. — More oil is extracted from the bean than

from any one of the other oil-yielding plants of China. The two kinds
of bean treated for oil are small in size and oval in shape, one having
a whitish yellow epidermis and interior, the other being green
throughout. They are probably sub-varieties of the Soja bean. The
process of extraction in Formosa is described by Mr. Hosie in a recent
report on that island. The beans yield about 10 per cent, weight of oil,
and the cakes when removed from the press weigh some 64 lbs. and are
worth about 2s. 9d. each. They constitute a very valuable manure, and
are carefully macerated before being applied to the soil. The com¬
mercial value of this industry is shown by the fact that 60,000 tons of
bean cakes were exported from Chefoo during 1890, and Newchang sent
over 150,000 tons in the same year. The oil is used both for cooking and
lighting purposes.

- Formosan Tea. — The cultivation of the Tea, known in trade

as Formosa Oolongs, is referred to by Mr. Hosie in his late report on that
island. The Tea > ^ant was imported from the Fuhkien province, and
proved a great success. Since its introduction the cultivation has spread
rapidly, with the clearing of the hillsides in Northern Formosa. When
a slope has been cleared of jungle a crop, such as Sweet Potatoes, is
planted, and in the following year young Tea plants are set out in rows
2 feet or 3 feet apart, with a like distance between each plant. In this
virgin soil no manure is required, and all the cultivator has to do is to
keep the ground clear of weeds and undergrowth. In three years from
the date of planting out the shrubs have attained their maximum height
of 2 feet to 3 feet, and the time has arrived for picking the leaves. This
operation, which is carried out by women and girls for the most part,
takes place in the end of April or beginning of May, in July, and in
September, for three crops are harvested during the season. The Tea
manufactured in Formosa is generally, but erroneously, classed as a
green Tea. It is in reality a black Tea, prepared without the usual
fermentation, but it possesses a decided flavour of the green variety.
The leaf is “ fired ” when green, and this, taken with the flavour, may
account for the popular belief. But between the exposure in the open
air and the firing the edges of the leaves are rendered quite soft by
being thrown against Bamboos in a revolving machine — a process
unknown elsewhere in China. It is said that if the leaves, after being
picked and exposed for a short time, were placed in the firing pans they
would split up — the Tea leaf is thick and brittle — and lose all semblance
to the whole leaf which is so much desired.

October 5, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

816

CAUSES OF SHANKING IN GRAPES.

In addition to the various theories propounded by your correspondents
(page 262) as to the causes of shanking in Grapes, I will venture to add
another one, and that the application of too much water, especially if
the Vines should be rooting in a retentive soil. This I proved to my
own satisfaction some years ago, although it may not concur with the
experience of those advocates who advise the application of water to
growing Vines in unlimited quantities at weekly or bi-weekly intervals.
According to these practitioners it is impossible to overwater Vines,
irrespective of the size of the border or the nature of the soil they
are rooting in, and is supposed to be the panacea for recuperating their
energies if any ill should befall them. There are, however, many cases
where not nearly sufficient water is given.

Some time ago I was, like many other gardeners, imbued with the
idea that there was nothing like plenty of water for Vines if Grapes of
the highest quality were desired, and of this element the borders had a
surfeit, and the Vines, too, as I had about as bad an attack of shanking
to contend with as there could possibly be. Upon examining the border
it seemed cold and inert, with the ends of the young roots decaying
away. This was a lesson to me that I shall ever remember. The roots
were completely paralysed, consequently they were quite unable to
afford adequate support to the Vines at a critical period. Since that
time I have always been more sparing in the application of water, never
applying it until the border was in condition to receive it. When to
apply water depends upon the size and also formation of the rooting
medium.

I do not dispute in the least the causes propounded on the page
mentioned, as if good Grapes are to be secured all are shoals, of which
everyone should steer clear. The benefit of a covering of warm leaves
as explained by Mr. Ward I can fully endorse, as the beneficial
properties of which for forced Vines I have proved repeatedly. This,
as many readers are aware, is no new idea, but an old method. There
is one error, however, that many cultivators who adopt the practice
often fall into, and this of removing the covering too early. Probably a
suitable warm covering was placed on the border at the commencement
of forcing, this period being either December, January, or even well into
February, and kept up till the weather becomes warmer. At this time
the covering is removed, and the Grapes are at a critical stage, the
colouring process only commencing. This sudden removal of the
material undoubtedly gives the Vines a check, the roots becoming quite
disorganised, with the result of colouring being arrested and also an
attack of shanking. This past season, although the weather was fine
and warm, I did not remove the covering from our early Vine border
until the Grapes were almost perfectly coloured, and looking back over
a series of years I never had early Grapes better or more free of
shanking. The Vines are very old, with rods and spurs of an antiquated
appearance. Covering with cold manure or exposed to the weather
after being put on is of little benefit, as if open to rains and snow
the material soon loses heat and becomes a cold inert mass, making the
border cold also, consequently it is impossible for the roots to remain
active. After placing on a layer of leaves the whole should be covered
with properly constructed boards or sheets of corrugated zinc.

The benefit which accrues to Vines from lifting the roots out of deep
and cold borders, and relaying them nearer the surface in suitable
compost, is only too well known to those gardeners who have adopted
the practice. It is a never failing remedy of rejuvenating the most
decrepit of Vines, and where shanking is due, or can be traced to the
Vines rooting deeply in a cold and inert soil, this process, with other
cultural details well attended to, will arrest it completely. — A. Young.

Shanking may be caused by overcropping, neglect in growth, tops
running wild, and then shortened back wholesale. It is also caused by
the Vines growing in an imperfect border, combined with bad drainage.
All Grapes have a tendency to thus shank more or less. Shanking in a
green state is no doubt caused by defective root-action, the top growth
being in advance of roots. Possibly it is caused by the loss of fibrous
roots during the winter. In this case it plainly shows a weakness, and
can he remedied for the next season by draining and renovating the
border, top-dressing, and applying less water.

Whatever may be said to the contrary, I have proved that chemical
manures are far in advance of that from the farmyard. True, the
immediate gross growth does not follow the application of chemicals, but,
on the other hand, we have sounder fruit of higher fiavour, with hard
close grained wood for our next season’s crop. Vines that are over¬
cropped are most liable to shanking, though it may also be caused by
want of water at the roots in hot dry weather, combined with a low
temperature at night or early mornings. In Gros Colman it is a shoulder
that is generally affected. This can be removed without any great detri¬
ment to the bunch beyond the actual loss of weight. Black Alicante
will go at the bottom, the first symptoms being slow colouring. Lady
Downe’s is often affected on the top where we can least spare berries.
Cold sour borders will also produce this disease, but growers can by
careful attention reduce it to a minimum. Some persons profess not to
have shanking, yet I question if any vinery is faultless for one year.

Should shanking arise from any accidental cause, as overcropping or
neglect of attention in the due stopping of the growths in proper season,
this will not necessarily follow the following year if attended to. If,
however, the fault be at the roots or border it will be more diflScult
to cope with. In wet sunless seasons with outside borders shanking
is generally prevalent. The remedy will be in lifting the Vines or

protecting the borders. No doubt there is a form of shanking that arises
from unripened wood of the previous year. Damage to the roots will
also cause shanking. Some four years since I had several Vines, the
roots of which were mutilated by moles, the result being red sour berries.
Now they are not quite perfect, but improve every year. — Stephen
Castle.

NEPENTHES MIXTA.

This Nepenthes, which is depicted in the accompanying illustration
(fig. 45), is an interesting and highly coloured hybrid, being the result

FIG. 45.-— nepenthes mixta.

of a cross between N. Curtisi and N. Northiana. It was raised by Messrs.
J. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea, and was exhibited by them at the Drill Hall,
James Street, S.W., on Tuesday, September 2Gth, when the Floral Com¬
mittee of the Royal Horticultural Society awarded a first-class certificate
for it. The pitchers are about 9 or 10 inches in length, somewhat
narrow, of a greenish red heavily blotched with brownish red. The ribs
which surround the mouth of the pitcher are dark crimson, which
enhances its appearance. The plant shown on the occasion mentioned
bore six fine pitchers.

316

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 6, 1893.

National Chrysanthemum Society.

At the Floral Committee meeting held at the Aquarium on the 27th
ult. the following varieties were awarded first-class certificates.

Oudave Grunerwald. — An early flowering decorative Japanese of a
light mauve colour passing to white. Exhibited by Mr. N. Davis.

Mrs. C. B. Myers. — A large exhibition Japanese, solid and well
built, colour white shaded yellow. Sent by Mr. R. Owen of
Maidenhead.

President Borrel. — A variety with long petals of the Japanese type,
with a striking purple colour and golden reverse. A massive flower,
staged by Mr. Rowbottom.

Madame Desgranges Chrysanthemum.

The well-known Chrysanthemum Madame Desgranges and its
yellow sports are valuable for decorative purposes, and are somewhat
extensively cultivated. To grow these Chrysanthemums into good
bushes strong cuttings should be secured about the middle of October,
preference being given to those springing from the roots, and place
them singly into small thumb pots, using loam, leaf mould, and sand in
equal parts. Plunge them in a half-spent hotbed, and keep them close
until rooted, only admitting sufficient air to dispel superabundant
moisture, and thus prevent damping. When rooted they should have
abundance of ventilation during favourable weather, and keep them
near to the glass, so as to induce a short-jointed stocky growth, nothing
being so detrimental to Chrysanthemums as “ coddling ” at any stage.
Grown under airy, bracing conditions, they will bear a few degrees of
frost without injury, and although the growth will be slower, yet in
the spring the plants will possess far more stamina than those grown
under close, warm conditions, and may, moreover, be placed out of doors
a month earlier in spring.

When the plants are 6 inches high, pinch off 2 inches of growth ;
this will induce them to throw out a number of side shoots. Select
three of the strongest, and rub ofl all the others. At this stage, which
will be the end of November, they will require placing into 5-inch pots,
using a compost of three parts fibry loam and one part each of well
decayed manure, leaf mould, and sand, adding 1 quart of bone-
meal and soot to each bushel of compost. They should be potted firmly
and returned to a cold frame with a south aspect if possible, and as the
days are short and damp they will not require keeping close, neither
will they need watering for at least a fortnight, and every oppor¬
tunity should be taken to give air, and on mild days to remove the
lights entirely. During very severe weather the lights may be covered
in the usual way, but a little frost will not hurt the plants. Damp,
however, must be expected during the dull days of winter, but this can
be largely obviated by making a wooden slatted stage for the frame, and
arranging the plants on it near to the glass, giving them plenty of room.
Watering also should be attended to during the early part of the day.
Early in February the shoots should again be pinched back and two
growths selected which will give six shoots to each plant. Early in
March place the plants into their largest pots, using those 8 and
9 inches in diameter. — Specialist.

A GLANCE AT SCOTTISH GARDENS;

Dalkeith.

My initial visit to Scotland took place a week or two since, and as I
chose Edinburgh as my headquarters I saw much to interest me in as
well as outside the city. My first visit was made to Dalkeith, and a
most enjoyable and at the same time instructive one it proved. I was
unfortunate enough to find Mr. Dunn, the well-known gardener, on the
sick list, and unable to leave his house, which latter fact I believe
caused him more worry than ail the pain, as he is, as many people
know, one of the most energetic of men. He did, however, everything
he could for me by deputing one of his foremen to show me round the
gardens. What struck me particularly at this, as well as at the other
places I visited, was the exceptional cleanliness which pervaded the
whole — houses, flower, kitchen, and fruit gardens were alike in that
respect. This was I think more noticeable here than in many English
gardens that I have seen, where the minor details seem to be ignored. In
so doing a great mistake is made, for not only is the appearance of a garden
much enhanced by this freedom from weeds, but the erops that are
planted thrive best on clean, sweet ground. Almost all the fruit
from the trees indoors had been gathered, but I was informed there
had been very fine crops. A few Grapes were still hanging, and
taking those as a criterion the bunches must have been exceptionally
fine. Bananas are finely grown, and several splendid clusters of the
luscious fruits were to be seen in various stages of ripeness. Monstera
deliciosa was also carrying numbers of fruits.

Out of doors, however, there was still a wealth of bloom and an
abundance of hardy fruits. Apples have been exceptionally abundant,
as also have Pears, and the trees here, as well as those indoors, bear the

impress of excellent management. Signs of the drought which has
played such havoc in many gardens throughout the kingdom this year
were noticeable. The Plums were practically all gone at what is in
ordinary seasons the height of their perfection. Amongst the flowers
Dahlias were very prominent and remarkably beautiful, most all of
the various types being strongly represented. The Stocks were a wealth
of bloom, pure white and red, and of delightful fragrance. They grow
well at Dalkeith, and evidently they are highly appreciated, for there
seems to be an almost endless supply of them. But how useful they are
for cutting 1 They afford innumerable flowers, which stand well in
water, and the perfume is, I believe, almost universally liked. Sun¬
flowers reared their gigantic heads here and there in the borders, whilst
the Lobelias in all their dwarf beauty formed the groundwork of some
charming beds. Zinnias, too, were noticed in great numbers, providing
a diversity of colouration which entitles them to more general culti¬
vation. Their culture is of the simplest, and their beauty cannot
be questioned. A walk across the park brought us to the place where
the gardens were in bygone days, and of which but one relic remains in
the shape of a large stone-built conservatory of much beauty filled with
Palms and other plants which have grown too large for the accommo¬
dation which the structures in the gardens afford. There were numberless
other things seen, but I must leave the good work at Dalkeith and allude
to other gardens.

Newbattle Abbey.

This, the seat of the Marquis of Lothian, is renowed in history,
and though there remains little of the old Abbey, yet its style of archi¬
tecture remains unaltered, as the additions which have been have
followed closely the ancient pile. The grounds here are under the
charge of Mr. Macdonald, who, though but a short while there, has
made his presence and personality felt in the gardens, which are in an
excellent condition. Chrysanthemums are a great feature, some
hundreds of plants being grown, and if appearances deceive not, will
afford some grand blooms. They are clothed almost to the pots with
foliage of a rich dark green colour and of exceptional substance. Truly
they are splendid plants. The flower garden was bright with brilliant
hued Pelargoniums and Calceolarias, between them being turf, better
than which one seldom sees. No signs are displayed of dry weather,
everything betokens good culture, which signifies nothing less than
unremitting and untiring attention. A proof of the exceptional season
— if proof is required — is found here in a large Rhododendron which
has made a second growth, and was, at the time of my visit, carrying an
abundance of medium-sized trusses of well-coloured perfectly developed
blooms.

Indoors neatness prevails. “ A place for everything, and everything
in its place,” appears to be one of Mr. Macdonald’s mottoes. The
collection of Masdevallias is a justly celebrated one, and contains every
known species and variety of merit. Unfortunately for me I had come
at the wrong time to see them in flower, but one can readily imagine
that when at the summit of their beauty they present a spectacle which
could not fail to gladden the eyes, and mayhap the heart, of everyone,
whether he be an orchidist or not. They would assuredly be worth
going many miles to see. These Masdevallias are, I understand, the pet
hobby of the Marquis, who is at present engaged upon an exhaustive
work on this genus. Another plant worthy of special mention is a
grand specimen of Bougainvillea glabra trained to the roof of a cool
greenhouse, a position which is evidently well suited to it, as it is carry¬
ing an enormous number of flowers. This is a plant often found in a
stove, but such a high temperature is evidently not an essential to
success in its culture, for a finer plant could not be wished for than that
at Newbattle. There is here, too, a delightful fernery, where Adiantums,
Pterises, Aspleniums, and numerous other Ferns grow and thrive to
perfection. Huge boulders have been procured, with the idea of carry¬
ing the fernery underground, to come out into the gardens by a flight
of steps of a gentle incline. This project if carried out, and good Ferns
planted therein, would greatly enhance the charms of a home which
is already beautiful, and would be such a place as Mr. Schneider, of
Messrs. Veitch & Sons’, would revel in.

I cannot leave Newbattle without a word in praise of the fruit.
Peaches and Nectarines had all gone, but Grapes indoors, and Pears and
Apples out, were magnificent, and a great credit to the gardener. There
were some grand bunches of Black Hamburgh hanging on the Vines,
the berries of which were perfectly finished in every way. Many other
varieties are grown of course, but these remarks may safely be applied
to them.

Melville Castle.

Still following Mr. Dunn’s advice, I next walked to Melville, one
of the homes of Lord Melville, and here, standing out pre-eminently
above everything else, is a long border devoted to herbaceous plants.
Bushels of blooms might be cut and not one missed, they are so plen¬
tiful. To select one plant from the whole as the most beautiful may
appear presumptuous ; nevertheless, for profusion of flowers, good effect,
and general utility, I should certainly give the palm to Anemone
japonica alba. I do not remember ever seeing finer clumps. Michael¬
mas Daisies, too, made a brave show, many varieties being grown.
Second only to the Anemones in floriferousness were the Phloxes, these
forming a most brilliant feature. Dahlias were also very attrac¬
tive, the Cactus varieties being particularly showy. Other plants
were there in endless numbers, but those I have named must suffice.
Dotted here and there in the borders, and forming in places large masses,
were some plants of scarlet Verbenas which looked very beautiful, and
though said to be shy growers in some places, are certainly worth a trial

October 5, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

817

where such has not already been given them, for where the plants grow
well they are admired and appreciated by nearly everyone.

The glass houses are not very extensive, and are devoted principally
to fruit, Grapes being a good feature. Some large bunches were noticed
of the renowned Raisin de Oalabre used mainly for decorative parposes.
Black Hamburghs were well represented, the berries being very fine.
In the structures devoted to plants, Ferns were exceptionally good, as
also were Palms and Crotons.

The kitchen and fruit gardens both looked well, the latter having
been very heavily cropped. Apple trees were in a few cases blooming
for the second time, and this after carrying exceptionally fine crops of
fruit. Mr. Mackinnon is to be congratulated on the excellent state of
the gardens which he has under his control.

Tynninghame.

There are many things worthy of mention at this, one of the
residences of the Earl of Haddington. The gardens are and have been
for many years past in the charge of Mr. R. P. Brotherston, well known
as an excellent gardener, and as a contributor to the Journal of
Horticulture. The gardens are a credit to any gardener, and though
the glass structures have mostly seen their best days they yet
contain some fine plants and fruit. Plants are very largely grown for
affording cut flowers here, and foremost amongst these come the
Carnations, of which a very choice collection has been brought together.
Souvenir de la Malmaison in various shades are grown in large numbers,
and appear to be in the best of health, though showing, owing doubtless
to the extraordinary season, a tendency to premature flowering, which
may detract somewhat from the value of the plants next season. The
beautiful Germania is also extensively cultivated, many hundreds of
layers having been rooted this year. Sweet Peas, too, are a great
feature, most of Mr. Eckford’s best varieties being grown. Amongst
these are some very beautiful colours, one of the best being Countess of
Radnor. Affording as they do an abundance of flowers these Sweet
Peas must be invaluable. The Blue Pea (Lathyrus sativus) is also
grown, and a small clump of it is a very beautiful sight, and is moreover
useful for decorative purposes. Mignonette thrives admirably, producing
huge spikes of its deliciously scented blossoms, the variety Machet
being perhaps the largest.

The flower garden is furnished with Zonal Pelargoniums, Calceolarias,
Tritoma Uvaria, and other plants, and was looking very gay when I
was there. The crop of Apples has been a wonderfully heavy one, as also
has the Pears, many of both having been gathered and yet leaving
bushels on the trees. Pears on the walls were looking grand, many of
the very best varieties being planted, notably Clapp’s Favourite,
Souvenir du Congr^s, Williams’ Bon Chretien, and Louise Bonne of
Jersey. Plums too were hanging here and there, but the majority had
of course been gathered. Indoors the Vines were looking splendidly,
and some very serviceable bunches were hanging. Tomatoes too were
fine. The plants indoors were in excellent health, and Crotons
especially were very highly coloured. Ferns are grown in large numbers,
and some highly creditable specimens were noticed. On the shore of
the Firth of Forth, upon which the estate is situated, the Sea Buckthorn
was looking beautiful and carrying a huge crop of its brightly coloured
berries. There were many other plants and fruits worthy of note, but
I must leave those to be dealt with by others at some future time. A
visit to Tynninghame will be conducive to thorough enjoyment, and
much valuable information may be gained in walking through the
gardens with Mr. Brotherston. — Nomad.

EXPERIENCE WITH APPLES.

At the time when the characteristics of Apples and the value of the
crops can be best judged, a few notes from cultivators would be oppor¬
tune and instructive. I send three which may perhaps lead to others
from cultivators in different parts of the country.

Wealthy,

In your report of the discussion that took place at the last meeting
of the R.H.S. Fruit Committee, I notice that some members expressed
their strong disapproval of the growth and bearing habit of this Apple.
With me the growth is moderately strong, with a slight symptom of
canker showing on one or two shoots of last year’s growth. There is,
however, nothing to give cause for alarm in that respect, as the cold,
heavy soil here is certain to develop canker if the variety is addicted to
it in any way. The tree from which the fruit was gathered was a maiden
in 1891, and this year bore eight Apples, all equal to those before the
Committee. Many were removed by thinning when quite small to give
size to those retained. One of the Apples measured 12 inches round.
In the Journal of September 21st I note it is being largely grown at
Denver, an Apple-growing district in America. Here Wealthy is
thought highly of ; so much that I hope to increase our stock very
considerably in the coming planting season.

Ecklinville.

No Apple that I know will grow better and give a larger return of
fruit in a short time than this, but what is the use of the quantity if
there is difficulty in disposing of the produce? As is well known this
is a “ soft” Apple, easily bruised, and fruiterers with whom I have done
business refuse to buy Ecklinville at any price. If this is the case in
one town, is it not likely to be the same in others ? How, then, is it
possible to dispose of the fruit ? Much as I appreciate this Apple for

its growth, cropping, and cooking qualities, I am compelled to warn
others of the risk they run in planting it extensively.

Duchess of Oldenburg.

Anyone requiring a good early cooking Apple to be grown as an
espalier could not do much better than plant this Russian Apple. The
finest crop I have seen of it was produced by an espalier-trained tree in
the garden at Hill Place, near Bishop’s Waltham. The fruit was packed
as close as it could be on all the branches, was of large size and magnifi¬
cently coloured. I was much impressed with the variety after seeing^it
so successfully grown. — E. Molyneux.

Peasgood’s Nonesuch.

This Apple has done well in the neighbourhood of Bristol, PWe
recently saw fruit grown in the gardens of Cote House (Mr. Bannister,
gardener), on a bush tree, one fruit weighing 1 lb. 12 ozs. ; two weighing
3 lbs. 7f ozs. ; six weighing 8 lbs. 13^ ozs. ; twelve weighing 15 lbs. 13 ozs.
— jAs. Gar AWAY & Co.

DEATH OF MR. G. ROGUE.

Many readers of the Journal of Horticulture, as well as ourselves,
will hear with deep regret of the death of Mr. George Bogue, of 10, Hill
Street, St. Albans, which took place just before midnight on Tuesday,
September 19th. The deceased, who reached his eighty-sixth birthday
only on the previous Wednesday, was familiarly known throughout the
city, owing to his long connection with it. He had been in failing
health for some time, yet he was out a fortnight before his death. It
was then that he took a cold, and it seemed doubtful if he would recover,
his constitution having been impaired by a serious illness in the
spring. Mr. Bogue was a native of Lanarkshire, and came to St. Albans
as head gardener to the Earl of Verulam, at Gorhambury, about forty-
six years ago, and remained in his Lordship’s service for twenty-eight
years.

Many years ago Mr. Bogue used frequently to contribute articles to this
Journal, which were of a sound practical character. Mr. Bogue also for
many years supplied annually to the “ Herts Advertiser ” a rainfall table.
As showing the interest Mr. Bogue always took in this kind of work, it
might be mentioned that only a few weeks back, when showing the
apparatus to a friend, he expressed his wish to have it fitted up, and
thought he should begin again. The deceased, during his connec¬
tion with Gorhambury, was a member of the Committee of the Royal
Horticulcural Society, and seldom failed to attend the meetings in
London, and in the last few years of his life the deceased often
referred with pride to this, and would speak in glowing terms of the
times when he had sat at a Committee meeting with the late Prince
Consort. During the last eighteen years Mr. Bogue had lived a life of
retirement, and filled the office of churchwarden at Christ Church for
a long period. He, however, gave up his position some five years
ago owing to increasing age, and on that occasion he was presented with
a valuable inkstand as a mark of the esteem in which he was held.
There are only a few distant relatives of the deceased in England at
the present time, most of his nearer relations having emigrated and
attained to very good positions abroad. The funeral took place in the
St. Michael’s Churchyard, St. Albans, on Saturday afternoon, Sep¬
tember 23rd. (St. Michael’s Church is within the precincts of the
ancient Roman city of Verulam, and contains a fine marble monument
of the famous Lord Bacon). The service was conducted by the Rev.
W. Horne, and among those who followed to pay a last tribute of
respect to the deceased were Miss Henley and Miss Allard (sisters-in-
law), Mr. Horsfield (steward to Earl Cowper), who is a nephew of the
deceased’s late wife ; Mr. Garner, Mr. J. Child, Mr. W. Dunham, Mr.
W. Bowes, and Mr. Whitelaw (gardener to Lord Grimthorpe at Batch-
wood).

The “ Herts Advertiser,” from which the foregoing record was
mainly taken, did not reach us till after the publication of our last issue.
It was while our late contributor, coadjutor, and friend, who has passed
away so full of years and honour, was gardener at Gorhambury that
articles from his pen appeared in the Cottage Gardener and Journal oj
Horticulture. These were stamped by the teachings of experience, and
were proof of cultural attainments of a high order.

SOFT VERSUS HARD COLD WATER.

My first remarks upon this subject may, I admit, be open to mis¬
construction, but were certainly not written with the object of implying
“ W. P. W .” had betrayed confidence in any way, the reverse being the
case. I hope in future to strictly avoid touching the very sensitive
feelings which “ W. P. W.” appears to possess, and will now content
myself by taking a careful survey of the articles written, and endeavour
to explain a few facts, prove a few statements, and accept without
hesitation the challenge thrown out by “ J. B. R.” (page 286), therefore
I can only touch lightly upon the first-mentioned correspondent’s
article to save repetition. The “subtle shaft” which “ W. P. W.” has
hurled with such mighty force falls harmless to the ground, and leaves
me still free to concentrate time and attention to “ J. B. R.’s” article,
in which he distinctly implies that I wish to turn the matter into
other channels. This is decidedly wrong ; my conviction strengthens
rather than diminishes. I have no intention to “ play upon words ” in
this communication, my duty being to accept the challenge to quote

818

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Oetober 5, 1891.

an authority where “ hard cold water ” is described in words equal to
“ obnoxious drug.” ""tj*

First, What is the meaning of “ obnoxious? ” Anything in disfavour ;
and I take that “ hard cold water ” is distinctly in disfavour with me ;
“drug,” anything used which proves hurtful to the constitution of
animals or vegetation. This is my explanation of “ obnoxious drug.”
Now turn to “slow poison,” and the meaning reads, anything which is
injurious to life, animal or vegetable. Will this explanation satisfy your
correspondent? The first authority I quote is “Johnson’s Gardeners’
Dictionary” (page 818), which reads, “ That known as hard water, con¬
taining au excess of salts of lime or magnesia, is invariably prejudicial,”
in other words injurious. To subject the roots to an excess of this
element which “ hard cold water ” contains, acts as a “ poison ” instead
of a nutriment to the plants. In support of this statement allow me to
point “ J. B. R.” to the experiments recorded in “ Thompson’s Gardeners’
Assistant” (page 57), it will then be for him to prove my statements are
“ grossly incorrect.”

I will advance another step and quote the experience of men whose
authority is recognised throughout the gardening world. First, we read
in that valuable work the “Fruit Growers’ Guide,” by J. Wright
(page 291), “ Water should never be less in temperature than the mean
temperature of the house, and it is better if 5° warmer.” Now turn to
“ Fruit Culture,” by J. Cheal (page 128) and read, “ Be careful not to
use cold spring water or the chill will be too great.” Would these
warnings, I ask, be necessary if “ bard cold water ” was beneficial ?
No 1 they distinctly point out that it is the reverse of beneficial. “ Hard
cold water,” I repeat, prevents heat being carried down to the roots,
and when these are chilled they cannot produce healthy vegetation.
Knowing this what possible deduction can be drawn from “ J. B. R.’s”
assurance that “ hard cold water ” is highly beneficial to vegetation ?
He commits himself to "dicta,” and it is for him to prove that our
practical and scientific authorities are wrong. Allow me to return
the challenge and ask “J. B. R.” to quote an authority outside this
discussion where “ hard cold water” is described as highly beneficial
to vegetation.

I was surprised to see Mr. Molyneux’s communication (page 286) in
which he states that “ hard cold water ” has a distinctly nourishing
effect upon Chrysanthemums and other plants, for in his book on
“ Chrysanthemums and their Culture ” (pages 54 and 55) we find,
“ Where water comes direct from wells or water companies’ pipes in
a cold state means should be taken to expose it to the sun’s rays and
air some time previous to using.” Now that his ideas have advanced
in such a remarkable manner, he ought, in all fairness, to rectify the
statement in his book, because advice which is bought ought to be
of the best and not subject in any way to contradiction by the same
author in other channels. — F. Dunk.

MADAME PATTI’S LOVE OF FLOWERS.

Madame Adelina Patti has contributed a characteristic “ Page
of Confessions” to a London magazine. In answer to the question,
“What flowers do you most admire?” she replies, as I think very
sincerely, “ I love them all.” Nevertheless, like most amateur horticul¬
turists, the prima donna has her special favourites. She said to me
some years ago, during the interval at one of her memorable Irish
concerts, “ If ever you wish me to wear any special flowers when I am
singing do not send me Lilies, whose fragrance is so powerful as to have
a sickening influence; I would infinitely prefer either Roses or Carna¬
tions. I, however, admire greatly the Lilies which you send to me, and
though for this special reason I cannot wear them I have them beside
me here.” I observe on page 292 it is predicted in an interesting
article that Lilium Henryi will soon become a favourite with the ladies.
Another Lily which might safely be worn by them is L. speciosum
Kraetzeri, the fragrance of which is much more delicate that that of
L. auratum or L. longiflorum.

Madame Adelina Patti is net only a lover, but also a great cultivator
of flowers, and her famous conservatories at Craig-y-Nos Castle, in
which grow luxuriantly the rarest exotics, are among the finest in the
kingdom. All of these are lighted throughout with electricity, and
present, when thus illuminated in the evening, a fascinating scene,
especially when the subdued radiance from the electric lamps, falling on
the river Tawe, transfigures the rushing waters of that mountain
stream.— David R. Williamson.

LONDON TREES.

It is quite true, as stated in “ The Times ” of the 20th ult., and
reproduced in the Journal of Horticulture^ page 295, that the
flowers of the Ailantus have an unpleasant smell. But this, in my
judgment, does not militate against its value as a London tree. The
scent is scarcely perceptible in the open air in England, and the flowers
pass quickly away. The huge tree in my garden is nearly 50 feet high
close to the house, so close that the extreme branches overlap the
windows. An average of twelve persons, exclusive of visitors, has lived
in the house for more than twenty years, and during the whole of that
period I have heard but one allusion made to the scent of the flowers.
A grove of it might prove objectionable, but there is no fear of annoyance
from a short line or lines of trees. I have often admired this tree in the
streets in France, notably in the west, and recently saw an advertise¬
ment for trees in a German periodical. Flowering in the hottest time

of New York it may be objectionable there, probably is so ; of this I
have had no experience. — Wm. Paul, F.L.S.

The following correspondence also appeared in “ The Times ” in support
of Mr. Paul’s contention : — “ The scent from the Ailantus tree flowers
is quite innocuous and by no means powerful. Just outside the windows
of the Palace at Wells may be seen the finest specimen in England, and
as his Lordship daily takes a walk beneath its shade, and as he is in his
eighty-sixth year, obviously he has not suffered from the proximity of
his giant neighbour.” Another writer says : — “ Referring to recent
correspondence on this subject in your paper, I may mention there are three
varieties of the Ailantus, or Tree of Heaven. Two of these bear evil
smelling flowers, while the scent of the third is, as Mr. Paul describes it,
scarcely perceptible.”

THE “MARTIN” FLOWER RACK.

The accompanying illustrations represent the “ Martin ” Flower
Rack, a sample of which has been sent us by Messrs. Corry & Co.
(Limited), 13, 15, and 16, Finsbury Street, London, E.C. This useful
contrivance was invented by Mr. J. Martin, of Messrs. Sutton & Sons,
Reading, and it will doubtless prove valuable for exhibiting cut flowers,
also for arranging blooms in vases or glasses. The rack depicted in the
small sketch can be easily filled with flowers before placing it in the
vase, as shown in the larger engraving. It can also be utilised, if

suspended by wire, for displaying dried flowers and grasses, the sides of
the rack being covered with green moss. The rack is made in various
sizes, from 1|^ to 2| inches in diameter.

THE ROSELANDS, SOUTHAMPTON.

During a recent holiday I took the opportunity of visiting the
flourishing seaport town of Southampton, and after viewing the new
pier and docks I went across the ferry to the pleasant village of
Woolston, with the intention of seeing the grounds and conservatories
at The Roselands, the seat of W. Garton, Esq.

Mr. F. Jennings, the head gardener, welcomed me, and by him I was
shown a fine range of Peach houses. The trees at the time of my visit
were carrying a splendid crop of fruit. Some of the trees were moved
last year, but they are making fine wood for next season. We next entered
the early vinery, in which the Vines are being prepared for forcing.
Near the last named structure is a fine span house, filled with Mar^chal
Niel Roses. In the next house a grand crop of Tomatoes was notice¬
able. The frames are now filled with Bouvardias, Primulas, Cinerarias,
Freesias, and Zonal Pelargoniums. About 1000 Chrysanthemums are
grown on the cut-back system. The plants are dwarf, and the foliage
is good. We next visited the conservatory, which is a very long span-
roofed structure, filled with choice plants. From thence we entered the
large fernery, which was designed by Mr. Jennings. There are two fine
specimen Palms in the centre, and a host of other plants, that deserve
more than a passing reference. A house filled with Crotons, possessing
well coloured foliage, is especially interesting. The conservatory,
fernery, and Croton house are lit by the electric light, which at night add
considerably to their attractions. A large stove, containing the fine
specimen plants which Mr. Jennings has exhibited at Southampton
the last two seasons, also forms a feature at The Roselands, as does the
propagating house, where hundreds of seedling Palms and young
Crotons are grown for decorative purposes.

Besides the early house mentioned, there is a fine range of vineries,
containing well finished Lady Downe’s, Black Alicante, and Muscats.
We next passed through a long archway covered with Pears and climbing
plants, the whole presenting an attractive appearance. The lawn is

October 5, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

319

well kept, and the carpet bedding and an avenue of half-standard
Acacias were most noticeable. The same may be said of a fine tennis
court and bowling green. The grounds are not extensive, but afford
many beautiful views, and being well kept reflect much credit upon
Mr. Jennings. — A Gardener.

COUNTY OF GLOUCESTER AND CHELTENHAM ROYAL

HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY’S SHOW.— Sept. 27th, 28th.

The annual autumn Exhibition of this Society was held in the
Winter Gardens, which is admirably adapted for the purpose, being
a fine, spacious, well lighted, and central building, on the above
dates. Taken altogether the Show was a good one. In the plant and
cut flower classes there was a falling off both in quantity and quality,
but the fruit section was a decided advance, some remarkably fine
exhibits being staged. Vegetables were very good for the season.

For six stove and greenhouse plants Mr. J. Cypher, Cheltenham,
secured, as usual, first honours with large well-bloomed plants, the best
being Ixora Pilgrimi and I. Williamsi. Messrs. Heath & Son, Chelten¬
ham, came second with some excellent plants. With thirty plants, in
or out of bloom, grouped for effect, Mr. J. Cypher and Messrs. Heath and
Son took the honours as named, both staging gigantic plants in prime
health and condition. For twenty-four Dahlia blooms, distinct, Mr.
Thos. Hobbs, Bristol, was first, Messrs. Heath & Son a very close second,
and Mr. Humphries, Chippenham, third. With twelve Dahlia blooms,
distinct, Mr. Hobbs was again first, Mr. T. Haskins, Bristol, second.
For twenty-four German Aster blooms Messrs. John Price & Son, Stone-
house, were first. Mr. G. Garraway, Bath, occupied a similar position
for twenty-four French Asters. For thirty-six Rose blooms Messrs.
T. J. Townsend & Son were first, Messrs. Perkins & Son, Coventry,
being second. Messrs. Perkins & Son were an easy first for the best
bouquet, made up in their usual faultless style. Mr. J. Cypher was first
for twelve varieties of herbaceous flowers, Messrs. Heath & Son second.
The same exhibitors were placed as named for twelve exotic Ferns, both
staging massive well grown plants.

For six bunches of black Grapes in two varieties, the Rev. G. Coventry
was first, Gros Colman and Gros Maroc very fine ; Canon Coventry,
Severn, Stoke, second, with fine bunches of Gros Colman and Alicante.
For three bunches of black Grapes, Mr. George E. Cox was first ; Lieut.-
Colonel Rogers second, both showing well finished Alicante. With six
bunches of white Grapes, two varieties, Mr. D. Sheppard was first with
Bowood Muscat and Muscat of .Alexandria ; Rev. G. Coventry second.
For one dish of white Grapes Mr. G. E. Cox was first. Canon Coventry
second, both staging Muscats, For two bunches of black Grapes the Rev.
G. Coventry was first and C. Lee Campbell, Esq., was second, both
putting up fine, well coloured bunches. With eight dishes of fruit, the
Earl of Coventry secured premier honours with good Gros Colman and
Muscat of Alexandria Grapes, a fine Smooth Cayenne Pine, a large
Melon, and good dishes of Pears, Peaches, Figs, and Plums. C. Lee
Campbell, Esq., second, with large bunches of Black Alicante and well
coloured Muscat of Alexandria Grapes, a fine Melon, and good dishes of
Pears, Apples, and Plums. Mr. E. Hall, Batb,was third. For four dishes
Mr. D. Sheppard was first with good Muscat Grapes, fine Pitmaston
Duchess Pears, Figs, and Peaches. J. P. W. Butt, E-q., a very good second.
Lieut.-Colonel Rogers had the best Peaches ; and C. Lee Campbell, Esq.,
and J. P. W. Butt, Esq., were the most successful in the Melon classes.
The Earl of Coventry had the best dessert Apples, showing King of the
Pippins ; and Mr. H. Shurmer had the finest dish of culinary Apples,
with magnificent examples of Peasgood’s Nonesuch. The same exhibitor
was also first for twelve dishes of Apples. In the vegetable classes Mr.
G. Garraway, Mr. H. Shurmer, and Mr. A. Be van took leading positions
for collections. In the single dish classes the competition was keen, but
it would take up much space to name them.

Mr, B. Ladhams, Shirley Nurseries, Southampton, was awarded a
silver Flora medal for a fine collection of herbaceous flowers, also a first-
class certificate for a perpetual-flowering Pink named Ernest Ladhams,
which promises to be an acquisition. First-class certificates were
awarded to Messrs. Perkins & Son for two beautiful Cactus Dahlias —
viz,. Purple Prince and Matchless. Messrs. W. Edwards & Son, Sher¬
wood, Notts, exhibited their new bronze-like receptacles for Ferns
or other plants. Mr. C. Phillips staged a miscellaneous collection
of flowering and foliage plants. Mr. G. Humphries and Messrs.
Heath & Son staged Dahlias in variety ; and Mr. J, Townsend,
Worcester, Dahlias and Roses, not for competition.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

E. P. Dixon & Sons, Hull. — Forest and Ornamental Trees, Shrubs,
Fruit Trees, Sfc.

Dobbie & Co., Rothesay, N.B. — ITyaeinths, Tulips, Roses, Carna¬
tions, c^'C.

Henry Norton, Louth, Lincolnshire. — Dwarf Roses.

GARDENERS’ CHARITABLE AND PROVIDENT

INSTITUTIONS.

The Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Institution. — Secretary,
Mr. G. J. Ingram, 60, Parliament Street, London, W.C.

United Horticultural Benefit and Provident Society. —
Secretary, Mr. W. Collins, 9, Martindale Road, Balham, London, S.W.

Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. — Secretary, Mr. A. F. Barron,
Royal Horticultural Society’s Gardens, Chiswick, London, W,

WOKK.Foil'rHEWEEK..

FRUIT FORCING.

Vines. — Early-forced Vines in Rots. — Those to be forced to furnish
ripe Grapes in March or April should be started not later than the first
or second week in November. Early and free fruiting varieties must be
chosen. There are few that are in all points so satisfactory as White
Frontignan, Foster’s Seedling, Black Hamburgh, and Madresfield Court.
If bottom heat can be given to start them they will break well. Pro¬
vided there is a pit of 3 feet depth and 4 feet width, the pots may be
raised upon bricks in pillar fashion, so that their rims are slightly higher
than the pit edge, and so that the pots will be in the centre of the bed.
Leaves being placed in to fill the pit a gentle warmth will be afforded
the Vines, and the roots will pass from the pots into the leaves, deriving
support beneficial to the growth of the Vines and Grapes. The tempera¬
ture at the roots must be moderate at all times, especially at the com¬
mencement, 60° to 65° being sufficient about the pots and 70° to 75° at
their base. When in growth the temperature about the pots ought to
be between 70° and 76°. The house must be light, properly ventilated,
and well heated. It should face the south, a lean-to or three-quarters
span-roof being most suitable.

Early -forced Houses. — It is not desirable to start permanently
planted Vines early in November to afford a supply of ripe Grapes in
late March or April where there is convenience for growing them in
pots, as it is a great strain on their energies through having to make
growth at the dullest period of the year, and to rest at the hottest. The
Vines ought now to be pruned, and rest assured by keeping them cool and
dry. If the roots are partly outside that part of the border should have a
covering of moderately dry leaves with a little litter to prevent them
blowing about. This is an effective protection, and need not be used
until the soil has been well moistened by the autumn rains, yet before
the ground has become soddened and much reduced in temperature.
Where the border is entirely outside and early forcing is practised it will
be necessary to cover it with fermenting materials about the time of
starling the Vines. Three parts of Oak or Beech leaves to one of stable
litter will give a more suitable and durable warmth than all manure.
The material need not be thrown into a heap until the house is closed,
then mix well together, damping if dry, and when getting warm it is fit
to place on the b rder. But Vines in outside borders are not desirable
for early forcing, though it is sometimes necessary to make the most of
them for the purpose, and in that case a supply of fermenting material
must be held in readiness so as to renew the heat as required. Ferment¬
ing materials are also a great aid in forcing operations where the roots
of the Vines are partly or entirely inside, as they generate and maintain
a genial condition of the atmosphere, without recourse to so much fire
heat or sprinklings from the syringe. In that case the material should
be placed in the house when it is closed, turning the heap a time or two
more than is advised for outside borders, so as to become well sweetened
before being used.

Second Early Houses. — Vines to be started at the new year to afford
ripe Grapes in late May or early in June ought now to be pruned and
dressed, removing the loose bark only, and washing them with a tepid
solution of Eoftsoap, 2 ozs. to a gallon of water. The house also must
be thoroughly cleansed, whitewashing the walls, and painting the wood
and iron if necessary. Unless the Vines have been infested with insects
it will not be necessary to apply an insecticide. If they have been
attacked, it would be advisable to dress them carefully with an approved
solution. The loose surface soil should be removed and a couple of
inches thickness of fresh loam be supplied, sprinkling about 4 ozs. of the
following mixture over each square yard — steamed bonemeal two
parts, and kainit one part, mixed, and leave it on the surface, unless it
is necessary to apply water to render the soil moderately moist, then of
course it will be washed in, and the soil will hold its manorial elements.
The house should be kept cool and dry, ventilating fully except when
frost prevails, and only use fire heat to exclude it or prevent the hot-
water pipes becoming frozen and burst.

Midseason Houses. — Where the Grapes are hanging it will be
neces^ary to employ a little fire heat so as to insure a circulation of air
and prevent the deposition of moisture on the berries, which is almost
sure to be followed by decay. Air should be admitted constantly unless
the weather is very damp or foggy, when it will be best to maintain a gentle
warmth in the pipes and keep the house closed, not employing more heat
than sufficient to keep the temperature at 45° to 50°. If the roof is a
leaky one or plants have to be accommodated in the house, it is advisable
to cut the Grapes with as much wood as can be spared, and, removing
the leaves, place the shoots in bottles of clear rain water placed in an
inclined position in a cool dry room, so that the bunches will hang clear
of the bottles. Grapes in this way will often keep plump and sound up
to Christmas, whereas left on the Vines they often decay long before
that time, and the shortening of the bearing shoots to two or three
buds above the pruning buds is often beneficial by plumping the
latter, also by affording freer access of light and air. It is also
a good plan to remove some of the laterals where they are crowded, but

320

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t October 5, 1893.

this must not be carried too far where black Grapes are hanging or they
will lose colour through exposure to the sun.

Young Vines. — These often have a disposition to keep growing to a
late period, and it should be checked by stopping the shoots moderately,
but not so much so as to start the principal buds, as would be likely by
large reductions at one time and too closely. It will also accelerate the
ripening of the wood, which may be farther facilitated by a somewhat
high temperature and rather dry atmosphere by day, shutting off the
heat and keeping the ventilators open by night except when frost
prevails, for the Vines must not become frozen whilst they are full
of sap.

Late Grapes. — These are now thoroughly ripe except where the
Vines are in bad condition, or where started late. In the latter case
little benefit is derived from fire heat at this season in ripening the
Grapes, but it should be used where the wood is not thoroughly ripened
for the next year’s prospects, maintaining a temperature of 70° to 75°
by day and 65° at night, falling 5° through the night, allowing an
advance to 80° or 85° from sun heat, continuing this until the Grapes
are ripe, at least until the wood is brown and hard. Where the fruit
is thoroughly ripe— as it should be, for in that condition only can Grapes
be expected to winter satisfactorily — and the wood thoroughly matured,
all spray or laterals may be removed down to the main buds, ventilating
freely on all favourable occasions. Fire heat will only be necessary to
prevent the temperature falling below 50°. To prevent dust settling
upon the berries raking or sweeping must not be practised. Mats or
clean dry straw laid over inside borders will to some extent prevent
evaporation, assist in keeping the atmosphere dry, and prevent the soil
cracking. The outside borders must be covered if the fruit is to keep
satisfactorily. Glass lights are best, wooden shutters good, and tarpaulin
over dry bracken or straw answers well. About 6 inches thickness of
dry leaves, and a little litter over them, is all that is given in many
cases, and when the borders are well drained the Grapes keep plump
and sound to a late period.

IVXelons. — Water must now be applied carefully to plants with the
fruit advanced towards ripening, but those with fruit swelling must not
be allowed to become dry at the roots. Keep up moderate moisture by
damping for such plants, available surfaces being sprinkled in the
morning and afternoon. Add a little soil to the hillocks of the latest
plants as the roots protrude. Kemove all superfluous growths as they
appear, and maintain a temperature of 65° to 70° at night, 70° to 75° by
day, up to 85° or 90° with sun. Keep the bottom heat steady at about
80°. Fruit ripening will be the better of a little extra fire heat and
air constantly, which will do much to impart flavour. Any fruit it is
desirable to keep for a time should be cut with a portion of stem, and be
kept in a dry airy room. Fruits that are nearly ripe in frames may also
be cut with a goodly portion of stem and be placed in a warm airy house
in the full sun, and they will ripen better than in a moist atmosphere
or where there is a deficiency of warmth.

THE KITCHEN GABDEN.

Celery. — All things considered Celery looks remarkably strong this
season, and the quality and keeping properties ought also to be satis¬
factory, Where there are partial failures this, in many cases, is largely
due to want of moisture at the root. Ordinary rainfall has little or
no effect upon Celery in trenches. What the plants want are occa¬
sional thorough soakings of water or liquid manure, and that not merely
prior to commencing to mould up, but also for some time afterwards.
Before either the first, second, or even third addition of soil is banked
up against the rows the soil about the roots should be tested with a
pointed stick. If found, as it most probably will be, dry, or approaching
that condition, give a heavy watering, and delay moulding up for another
day. Unless these precautions are taken the Celery will be worthless
before the season is very far advanced, and will seed prematurely.

Eartlilngr up Celery. — The latest rows ought now to be partly
moulded up. Pull away the small lower leaves and any suckers there
may be, and either tie or hold the outer stalks well up together prior to
placing about 3 inches of fine soil about them, re-loosening the stalks so
as not to unduly confine the hearts. If slugs are troublesome, soot, or
soot and lime, should be freely dusted among the plants before the first
and subsequent additions of soil are made. In extreme cases it is a
good plan to wholly surround the stalks with either fine dry ashes or
burnt earth. Celery also keeping well when thus enclosed. A very large
amount of these materials is not required if boards are placed well up
to the rows when each addition is made, and soil being banked against
to the boards ; the latter can be withdrawn and shifted along to the
next length. The moulding up of the earlier and successional rows
should also be proceeded with, this being completed at about three
times. Not till the hearts are well advanced, or say from a fortnight to
three weeks after the previous moulding up, should more soil be placed
against the plants. This should be made fine, and not pressed hard
against the stalks, the latter being disposed so as to exclude the soil from
the hearts. At the final moulding enclose about one-half of the leaves,
making the soil rather firm about these with the hand, and round off
the ridge so as to throw off heavy rains and snow water.

Cardoons. — These also absorb much moisture at the roots, and the
stalks will be dry and tough if the plants suffer from want of water.
Therefore give more water if necessary. In order to blanch and keep
Cardoons effectually the best of the leafstalks ought to be gathered well
up together, and kept so by means of hay bands wound closely around
them. It is rather rough work, but if the men are furnished with
gloves and canvas jackets it can be easily accomplished. Bank the soil

well up to the plants gradually, or much as Celery is finally
moulded up.

laeeks. — When the plants are dropped into deep fairly wide holes,
formed with a dibber, the blanching will be effected without any further
trouble. Should the Leeks be planted in trenches or it may be nearly
on the level then moulding up must be done. A bandage of strong
brown paper or a common drain pipe split in halves placed round the
stems would prevent the soil from finding its way down the leaves, but
for ordinary purposes there is no necessity to take this precaution.
Leeks are perfectly hardj, and need not be heavily moulded up, as in the
case of Celery by way of a protective measure.

Onions. — Those which were either sown late last spring, or else
failed to come up till very late in the season, have in many cases failed to
“ bulb ” properly. When this happens, the necks are thick and the tops
erect and green. Instead of pulling all up and attempting to ripen
them sufficiently to store for winter use, the better plan is to pull those
that have formed bulbs, the tops also being limp, and to finish the
ripening of these, either in an old-fashioned oven after the bread is
drawn, or else in a dry warm place under glass. Let the green Onions,
or all that are still erect and growing, remain where they are, these
being drawn according as they are wanted for use. They will
survive an ordinarily severe frost, and in any case leaving them alone is
the only way in very many instances of being sure of a supply of Onions.

Otber Hoot Crops. — Beet, Carrots, Salsafy, and such like were
restarted into active growth by the August rains, and are still growing
strongly. Having plenty of strong leaves there is little likelihood of
frosts injuring the first-named, and all will most probably keep better if
left where they are for a fortnight longer.

Spinach. — Winter Spinach is in a very promising condition. In
many cases the seed germinated well, and unless the plants are freely
thinned out directly the leaves are large enough to use premature seed¬
ing will take place. Stirring among the plants with a pointed stick and
between the rows with a Dutch hoe are good preventives of grub attacks
and the increase of slugs.

Protecting Vegetables. — Globe Artichokes are stronger and
more plentiful than at any time previous this season. Seeing that they
afford a good and well appreciated change it would pay well to protect
some of the best of them whenever severe frosts are imminent. A single
row or small breadth of plants could be easily protected by means of
a few stout upright and cross stakes, these supporting mats or canvas
covering. Odd plants throughout a large breadth might be roughly
protected with large branches of evergreens securely fixed over them.
Some of the more forward heads could be cut, and kept for a few days
with their stalks placed in water. Autumn Cauliflowers and the earliest
Broccoli are spoilt by a moderately severe frost ; but it is rather too
early to lift and store these under cover of some kind. All ought to be
gone over frequently, strong leaves being gathered from old stumps and
carefully tucked over the more forward hearts. Rows of medium
height late Peas might be protected with blinds and such like, branches
of evergreens also affording sufficient protection in some cases. Have
sideboards fixed round breadths of late Lettuce and the more
forward Endive, with sufficient cross bars to support light mats or other
protective material whenever frosts are anticipated. Tomatoes against
walls have formed extra good late clusters of fruit, and seeing that
these will ripen better on the plants than off if properly protected.
The leaves being healthy, and not cut back unduly, afford a certain
amount of protection ; but these ought to be supplemented by mats,
blinds, or spare frame and pit lights. Should there be any signs of the
disease commencing to spread, then ought the clusters of green and
ripening fruit to be cut at once, and suspended in warm, dry quarters to
colour. The larger green fruit will colour in due course, and be avail¬
able for cooking purposes, but the small green fruit is only fit for
pickling.

PLANT HOUSES.

Zonal Pelargoniums. — Plants that have been standing outside
would now be better if they could be placed under cover. Avoid starting
them into soft growth if the plants are to flower profusely and continue
to do so for a lengthened period. Shallow cold frames will suit these
plants for some weeks, so that the lights can be tilted or closed at night
to protect them from frosts that may occur at any time. Protect the
plants also from heavy rains, but on all flne occasions throw off the
lights. If some plants are needed in flower arrange the forwardest in a
light airy structure fairly close to the glass. Admit plenty of air to the
plants, also give a little artificial manure to the surface of the soil. Do
not overwater, for this proves as detrimental to the plants as heavy
rains. Remove from all plants that are placed in frames early flowers
that are already showing, also bad leaves. Late propagated plants now
in 3-inch pots that have been kept in frames may be placed into slightly
larger pots, and if kept in frames, or in a light airy house where they
can be given a little warmth, they will produce flowers for a long time.

Ivy-leaved Varieties. — These are most useful, and if they are well
ripened by standing outside and are housed at once they will yield
flowers for some time. However useful the Zonals may be the flowers
of Ivy varieties are very effective in a cut state, especially the delicate
shades of pink.

rrencli and Taney Pelargoniums. — These may he placed in their
winter quarters, such as on shelves close to the glass in cool, airy houses.
In these positions with careful watering the plants winter well. The
earliest plants should have the points of the shoots removed before they
are placed on shelves, and if in 3-inch pots they can be placed into
5-inch pots. In potting firmly press the soil, which should consist of

October 8, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

321

good 6bry loam, one-seventh of sand, and the same amount of manure.
Careful watering is necessary, for if kept too wet the foliage is certain
to spot. Later plants should be treated the same as regards air and
water. Young plants that are established in 3-inch pots may have the
points of any weak shoots removed ; pinching will induce them to start
strongly again into growth, provided they are kept cool. Cuttings that
are still in outside borders should be lifted and potted without delay.
All that are rooted should be placed into 3-inch pots, and stood on
shelves in a cool house. Heat ruins these plants by causing them to
grow weakly.

Heliotropes. — If the plants are placed in a light, airy structure,
where the night temperature can be gradually increased to 55° in a
month’s time, the plants will commence growth, and flower profusely
for a very long time. A little artificial manure applied to the surface
will prove beneficial.

Bouvardlas. — These plants must not be starved. Any that have
been planted outside and are only needed for providing flowers may be
lifted with good balls and put in a warm frame or low house. Those
grown in pots will be showing flower, and if stood in a house where
gentle warmth can be given in the course of a few weeks they will soon
yield useful flowers for cutting. If placed on ashes the plants invariably
root through, and this proves a great assistance to them. Soot water, or
artificial manure that acts quickly, proves invaluable to these plants.

Justlcla flavlcoma. — The growth of these plants is earlier than
usual, and already the flower truss in many cases is just visible. A
temperature of 50° will suit them, plenty of air being admitted during fine
warm days. Soot water and artificial manure may be given. The
plants if raised from cuttings should be clean, but if scale exists upon
them it ought to be eradicated.

Fuchsias. — Plants that have flowered and have thoroughly ripened
wood may be stood outside for a time. Younger plants that have not
the wood well ripened may be stored for a time in frames. Do not
hurry them to rest by keeping them unduly dry. Young plants that
are just rooted may be placed into 3-inch pots and arranged on a shelf,
where they can be kept growing during the winter.

Bulbs. — Various kinds of bulbs should be potted according to the
demand until the end of this month. When placed in ashes they should
be marked, and the date of potting placed on the label. This saves
trouble and disturbing the plants before they are ready for removal.
Place all the later potted ones where they can be covered with litter if
not ready for removal before we experience severe weather.

Freeslas. — All the earliest of these should be growing in frames,
where they can remain for some weeks longer. If the frames are needed
place the plants on shelves where they can enjoy full sunshine and
plenty of air. Freesias are frequently spoiled by a too close confined
atmosphere. Later plants must not be allowed to become drawn.

if

9^

m

HE BEE-KEEPER.

APIARIAN NOTES.

Practical Hints for Beginners,

( Continued from ]}age 299.)

With the exception of depositing the eggs in the cells, which
is done solely by the queen, one in each cell, and at the rate of
from one to four thousand or more daily, all the other economy of
the hive is performed by the workers gathering pollen and honey
from the flowers and other sources.

They secrete wax in the form of irregular roundish white
scales, which when ready for use project from the segments of
their stomachs in pairs. This they utilize for building and sealing
their honeycombs, and with a mixture of it and pollen and
propolis, they cement crevices of the hive, and seal their brood
cells. While they perform this work with ardent care and zeal
for the future generations of bees, their work in the field is
perhaps of greater importance. Entering blooms for honey and
pollen ostensibly for their own use, they fertilize and cross flowers,
perpetuating them with greater vigour and beauty. Probably
some buds would never expand did the bees not remove the
superabundant propolis from them ; everywhere and in everything
the bee is engaged.

The drones are the male bees, which are sometimes too
numerous in hives ; advice to their restriction will be given further
on. They are of no use in the hive, unless it be in the case of
swarmed hives, where there are a paucity of workers to keep up a
proper degree of temperature for the successful hatching of the
young bees. In the season of mating they fly out during the
warmest part of the day, from one till three being the busiest
time. They remain out from fifteen to thirty minutes, fljing long
distances in hopes of meeting and mating with a queen. During
the present summer, while I held a queen, a drone, probably
attracted by her odour, flew right into my hanl. The speed drones
fly at probably exceeds greatly that of the worker, which has never
been properly estimated. While standing in an open truck this

year, the engine going upwards of fifty miles an hour, the bees
flew from front to rear, evidently with the greatest ease.

Fertile workers are so called because externally they cannot be
distinguished from a worker bee, but in the proper sense are
imperfected queens. They cannot mate, and were until recently
considered utterly worthless, producing, like unfertilised queens,
drones only ; but these are as perfect as are the drones of fertilised
queens. So far back as 1862 the late Mr. T. W. Woodbury proved
this by one of them mating with an Italian queen, and I have had
experience of many cases since. Their existence seems to be a
wise provision in nature, the drones produced from them serving
queens at times when no other drones exist. I am not certain, but
it appears to me that a queen may be the mother of drones, to be
fertilised by one of them, and then be the parent of strong
colonies. Several cases in my experience point to that being the
case ; but why workers rear many of these sumptuously in queen
cells is a mystery to me. I have never been led into the erroneous
opinion, as have been many others, that they were eggs moved by
the bees which do not carry eggs from cell to cell. The
hermaphrodite is part bee and part drone. The beginner studying
these brief but necessary hints will have less difficulty in under¬
standing the proper condition of his hives than if he had allowed
ignorance to hold its sway.

Beginning Bee-keeping.

There is perhaps no better period to begin than at the present
time of the year, because by proper management and paying
attention to advice given in these pages, most of the after success
depends. Beginners should select a good site and locality to keep
bees. Size of hives is of great importance. Those of less
dimensions than 3500 cubic inches are too small. One prominent
bee-keeper told me recently, “ I have kept to the three divisions
since you at first advised me, when I abandoned the ‘ Standard ’
hive, and I have always had more honey, and better of quality.”
“R. A. C., Kent," writes that his Lanarkshire hives have given
him in every case 20 lbs. more honey, and I could quote scores of
similar cases.

Youthful queens are what beginners ought to tolerate only,
unless where there may be a valuable imported or pure bred one
kept for the sole purpose of breeding from. The best time to do
this is from the end of May till the end of July, and there is no
better way, failing a swarmed stock, than to deprive a strong one
of its queen. In ten or twelve days queens are hatched, and then
it may be formed into nuclei ; twelve from a strong stock may
thus be formed. The frames with bees having a queen cell to each
lot may be put into roughly made light boxes of a suitable size to
hold from three to four or more frames. What is not occupied
with combs should have frames filled with foundation. A light
cover screwed on the top completes the arrangement, when they
may be set on their site in the apiary, or isolated five to seven miles
from other bees for select fertilisation. Put a piece of waterproof
over them, and await development. — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor ” or to “ The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the stafE often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Exhibiting- Tomatoes (A. CreeTi). — In the absence of any special
intimation in the schedule that Tomatoes may be included in a class for
fruit, a collection containing them would be open to disqualification.
Like Cucumbers and Vegetable Marrows, Tomatoes are exhibited in
vegetable, and not in fruit classes.

Blinds In Fruit Room (JF. J). — The blinds suspended along the
front of the shelves for excluding light from the fruit would not
exclude air to the prejudice of Apples and Pears in a reasonably venti¬
lated room, but it might be necessary to block up the window during
severe frost if such occur in your locality.

322

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 5, 1893.

Soft versus Hard Water ( Jl — We regret your communication,

arriving rather late, cannot be inserted this week because written on
both sides of the paper. When the writing is on one side only the
sheets can be cut into a number of strips for distributing among
compositors, and the whole matter is set in type quickly, otherwise, as in
this case of yours, the process is of necessity slow. All matter
intended for publication should be in accordance with our standing
request at the head of this column.

Turfy Xioamfor Peacb and Vine Borders (Z/. O. TF.). — No. 1 is
probably the richer soil of the samples, being of a darker colour through
the vegetable matter, and contains less grit than the others. It would
no doubt answer for the Alicante, Lady Downe’s and similar varieties
with an admixture of one cartload of old mortar rubbish, one cartload
of dry wood ashes, and 4 cwt. of crushed bones (J inch to 1 inch) to ten
cartloads of the loam. No. 2 is an excellent brown or hazel loam, but
deficient of gritty matter, yet it may be made available for Peaches by
adding to it one-sixth of clayey marl and a similar proportion of
calcareous gravel, with J cwt. of kainit and I5 cwt. of basic slag
(Thomas’ phosphate) to ten cartloads of loam. The clayey marl should
be dried and pounded, incorporating all well together, and making very
firm. No. 3 would answer for the Muscats, as it contains more grit than
the other samples, yet not enough ; therefore to ten cartloads of the
loam add two of old mortar or lime rubbish, one of dry wood ashes, one
of fresh horse droppings, and 4 cwt. of crushed ^ to 1 inch bones, mixing
well. The proportion of Thomas’ phosphate named above may be added
with advantage.

Apples and Pears from Seed QAn Old Suhscriher'). — The seeds
or pips which have been selected from first-class fruit during a recent
visit to Normandy should be sown now in an open situation, preferably
in drills about an inch deep and about 6 inches asunder, or the seed
may be kept in sand and sown early in the spring. Some persons sow the
pips in pans, and cover them with small-meshed wire netting to exclude
mice. In the autumn after sowing the seedlings may be placed in
nursery rows about 1 foot asunder, and the plants 6 inches apart in the
rows after shortening the tap root and assorting the plants into sizes.
The autumn following they may again be transplanted if they require
more room, planting in rows 42 inches apart and 2 feet asunder in the
rows. Further transplanting will be necessary as the trees require more
room, always allowing sufficient space for the sun to reach the ground,
and for light and air to have free access to the growths. The trans-
plantings will accelerate fruiting, or it may be furthered by grafting
the seedling Apples on Paradise and the Pears on Quince stocks. The
age at which seedlings commence bearing varies from five to twelve
years, the period depending on the variety ; but the time is greatly
influenced by soil, situation, and mode of culture. Probably one seedling
in a hundred will not afiEord fruit equal to the parent, but it is possible
that something good may be secured.

Artificial IVIanure as a Substitute for natural (F. Ji). —
There is really no substitute for animal manures, simply because they
contain matter which, as humus, adds to the staple and improvement
of soils. To keep the soil in a fertile condition is another thing, and
may be eflEected by the judicious use of the substances containing the
needful elements as food for plants. These are mainly phosphoric acid,
potash, and nitrogen. Superphosphate supplies the first, also lime, and
some nitrogen ; kainit furnishes potash, soda, and magnesia, but is
mainly useful for its potash ; and nitrate of soda contains the essential
nitrogen. The phosphoric acid and potash must be in the soil for the
nitrate of soda to act beneficially, for in their absence the nitrate may
be worse than useless. Two parts superphosphate and one part kainit,
mixed, may be applied very early in the spring at the rate of 4 ozs. per
square yard, and when the crops are fairly above ground, or have taken
to the soil, supply nitrate of soda, finely powdered, at the rate of half
to three-quarters of an ounce per square yard. For fruit trees the super¬
phosphate and kainit mixture may be applied in the autumn, when the
leaves have fallen, the trees pruned, and just before pointing the
ground over lightly. This will be in November or December, but it
must not be given later than February, then in the spring sprinkle on the
nitrate of soda. All the manure should be spread from the stem out¬
wards to 1 foot beyond the extension of the branches.

Pinus Inslgnls Shoots and Buds Destroyed {E. B!). — The
caterpillar is that of the Pine-bud moth (Retinia turionana), which
feeds in the buds and of course destroys them. The only remedy is to
cut off all the infested parts and burn them. The earlier this is done
in the season the better, so as to give chance of the formation of new
buds, which sometimes occur on the shoots that lose their growing
points. We find the best preventive is to coat the trees subject to
the attacks of the pests early in July with a petroleum mixture, so
as to render them obnoxious to the moths, and thus prevent them
depositing their eggs. The beetle is Hylurgus piniperda, which emerges
from the tunnel or pupa state from June to September (for there may
be two broods) and bore into a young shoot and eat out the pith in the
centre, from the base towards the tip. The shoot dies, dries up, and
falls oflf. When a number of shoots are affected the consequences are
very disastrous. There is no better remedy than to cut off the affected
shoots just below the holes and burn them, or a petroleum emulsion may
be ejected into the holes, but unless this is done before the beetles reach
the pith the benefit beyond destroying the beetles is not material as
regards the attacked parts. It is also advised to syringe the trees with
a petroleum mixture so as to render them distasteful to the beetles. A
fluid ounce of petroleum to 3 gallons of water is sufficient, and it is more
efficient when 6 ozs. of softsoap have been dissolved in that quantity of

water, keeping the mixture well agitated whilst being applied, which
should be on a dry day, and through a flne syringe.

Applying Dissolved Bones and Xalnlt (T. TF. F.'), — It is
necessary to take all the circumstances into consideration, and supply
the manures so as to meet the needs of the crops. This was taken into
account in your case consistently with the information supplied, which
practically amounted to the soil being deficient in phosphoric acid and
potash. It was because we thought it desirable to supply these
essentials, so that they would be available for appropriation as early
as possible in the spring, that we advised the autumn dressing when
the ground is being pointed over or lightly dug before the winter. We
did not mention September. What all practical fruit growers know as
autumn digging among fruit trees is not done then, but after all the
leaves are fallen from the trees. This is in November or early December.
Applied then, the loss from the mixture would be trifling — a modicum
of nitrogen perhaps, the phosphoric acid and potash being retained and
ready for use on the first opportunity. When spring dressings are
advised, some fruit growers have such a dread of losing anything that
they apply the mixture too late for benefiting the season’s crop, and at
the same time prejudice the succeeding year’s prospects by inducing
late growth. Generally speaking February is a very good time for
applying chemical manures to fruit trees that need them, and the advice
given in the work you name is perfectly sound. Tour case was regarded
as special, but if you prefer to apply the manure in February to avoid a
possible trifling loss in the winter by all means do so, but we should then
use two parts of bone superphosphate and one part kainit. Late autumn
dressings of mineral ingredients are much more effectual than late
spring applications, and those used in March and April this year did
not do half so much good as did those applied in the preceding autumn,
the possible loss of a modicum of these notwithstanding. Nitrate of
soda need not be given unless a heavy crop of fruit sets, when it should
be supplied without delay, for without nitrogen in adequate quantities
maximum values cannot be had from the other elements, and nitrate
of soda is simply wasted unless the soil contains sufficient phosphoric
acid and potash. Kainit contains about 23’43 per cent, of potassium
sulphate, and a good quality kainit should contain from 12 to 14 per
cent, of potash.

Hames of Fruits. — Notice. — We have pleasure in naming good
typical fruits (when the names are discoverable) for the convenience of
regular subscribers, who are the growers of such fruit, and not col¬
lectors of specimens from non-subscribers. This latter procedure is
wholly irregular, and we trust that none of our readers will allow
themselves to be made the mediums in infringing our rules. Special
attention is directed to the following decision, the object of which is
to discourage the growth of inferior and promote the culture of superior
varieties. In conseq uence of the large number of worthless Apples and-
Pears sent to this office to be named, it has been decided to name only
specimens and varieties of approved merit, and to reject the inferior,
which are not worth sending or growing. The names and addresses of
senders of fruit to be named must in all cases be enclosed with the
specimens, whether letters referring to the fruit are sent by post or
not. The names are not necessarily required for publication, initials
sufficing for that. Only six specimens can be named at once, and any
beyond that number cannot be preserved. They should be sent on the
first indication of change towards ripening. Dessert Pears cannot be
named in a hard green state. (/. W., Pershorej. — Herefordshire
Beefing. (C'. D., Wales'). — Cox’s Orange Pippin. (5. J.). — Beurr6
d’Aremberg. {C. J.). — Cornish Gilliflower. (^W. S. Payne). — Dumelow’s
Seedling. (77. Neal, Stapenhill) — 1, Marbchal de Cour ; 2, Doyenn6
du Comice ; 3, Marie Louise ; 4, Comte de Lamy. Please do not use
needles to affix the numbers ; they are dangerous, and some of your
numbers were displaced, therefore the fruits cannot be named.
(IF. Carr). — 1 and 6, Van Mons Leon Leclerc ; 2, Quite hard and
unripe ; 3, Doyenn4 Boussoch ; 4, Duchesse d’AngoulSme. (T. S. Inch). —

1, Souvenir du Congres ; 2, Nouveau Poiteau ; 3, Josephine de Malines ;

4, Mar6chal de Cour ? decayed ; 5, Fondante d’Automne ; 6, Quite

hard, and not known, (j’. II. B.). — 1, Beurr^ Beauchamp ; 2,
Beurrb Capiaumont ; 3, Comte de Lamy ; 4, Marie Louise. (IF. B. B.).
— 1, Ribston Pippin ? not a typical specimen ; 2, Certainly not
Ribston — graft the tree; 3, Beauty of Kent. (0. E.). — 1,
Dumelow’s Seedling ; 2, Greenup’s Pippin ; 3, Gravenstein ; 4,

Lewis’ Incomparable; 6, Winter Majetin ; 6, Kentish Fillbasket. By
driving nails into the eyes of Apples for fixing the numbers, you destroy
one of our aids to identification. (7. Stephens). — The large fruit is
Kentish Fillbasket ; the small one Winter Queening. (TF. J. G.). — All
the specimens are inferior. 1, Golden Reinette ; 4, Swan’s Egg ;

5, Possibly Bergamotte Esperen. (6^. Orpen). — 1, General Todtleben

2, Flemish Beauty ; 3, Susette de Bavay ; 4, Swan’s Egg ; 5, Fearn’s
Pippin ; 6, Ross Nonpareil. (.7. S. Bailey). — 1, Court Pendu Plat ;
2, Cox’s Orange Pippin ; 4, Franklin’s Golden Pippin ; 5, Beurr4 Bose.
(6*. (7.) — Sorry we cannot identify the Apple, especially as it is a good
one. (TF. P.). — We suspect these to be local seedlings, of greater
promise than the majority and have no recognised names. fiF. J. Gray).
— 1, Dumelow’s Seedling ; 20, Melrose ; 21, Wyken Pippin ; 25, Blenheim
Pippin; 31, Annie Eizabeth. (jET. Hunter). — 1, Not recognisable;
2, Blenheim, a grand specimen ; the Pear is Beurr^ Hardy, (f. Bussell).
— 1, Reinette de Canada ; 2, Ditto ; 3, Probably a small Hollandbury ;
4, Not recognisable ; 5, Greenup’s Pippin ; 6, Small’s Admirable.
(J1 H. C.). — 1, Duchesse d’Angouffime, the others quite hard, and not in
condition to be named. Pears should be sent on the change towards
ripening. The above are all the fruits we received up to midday on
Wednesday.

October 5, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

323

Itrames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in Arm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difiScult to separate them when the paper is damp.
{William SmitJi). — Scabiosa caucasica. {H. M.'). — Aster amellus.
{L. B.'). — Colutea arborescens. {Amateur'). — 1, Hoya carnosa ; 2,
Plumbago capensis. {F. D.). — Habrotbamnus elegans. {W. D. II.).
— The Powdery Mullein (Verbascum pulverulentum). {James Carolaii).
— The letter to which you refer as having been posted on the 18th ult.
has not reached our hands, nor have we received any specimens
from you. {J. J.). — Dendrobium album ; Ehododendron Javanico-
Jasminiflorum var. Duchess of , Connaught. {J, W. B). — Lathyrus
sativus. {G. C.). — Florist flower ; can only be named by comparison.

OOVENT GARDEN MARKET. — October Ith.

Market steady, with good supplies generally, and readily cleared at last week’s
quotations.

FRUIT.

s.

d.

s.

d.

d.

9.

d.

Apples, per bushel . . . .

1

0 to 6

0

Peaches, per doz .

1

6 to

8

(:

Cobs .

25

0

30

0

Plums, per half sieve

1

6

2

6

Grapes per lb .

0

6

1

6

St. Michael Pines, each . .

2

0

5

0

Lemons, case . , . . . .

10

0

15

0

VEGETABLES.

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

9.

d

Beans, Kidney, per lb.

0

3

to 0

4

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2 to

0

C

Beet, Red, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

5

Carrots, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

2

0

3

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . . . .

2

0

3

0

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Celery, bundle .

1

0

1

3

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

4

6

Coleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Salsafy, bundle .

1

0

1

fc

Cucumbers, dozen . . . .

1

6

3

0

Scorzonera, bundle .. ..

1

6

0

0

EndiTe^ dozen .

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb. ..

0

3

0

0

Herbs, bunch .

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel,* ** ••

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch .

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

5

Lettuce, dozen .

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Mushrooms, punnet .. .,

0

9

1

0

AVERAGE

WHOLESALE

PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.

Orchid Blooms in variety.

s.

d.

S.

d

S.

d.

9.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms .,

6

0 to 9

0

Marguerites, 12 bunches . .

2

0 to 4

0

Asters (English) doz. bches.

4

0

6

0

Mignonette. 12 bunches . .

2

0

4

0

Bouvardias, bunch ., ,.

0

6

1

0

Myosotis, dozen bunches ..

1

6

3

0

Carnations, 12 blooms

0

6

2

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

0

12

0

Carnations, dozen bunches

4

0

8

0

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

9

0

Chrysanthemums, dozen

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

bunches .

6

0

9

0

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis.

1

0

2

0

Primula (double), dozen

Cornflower, dozen bunches.

1

0

2

0

sprays .

0

6

1

0

Eucharis, dozen .

4

0

6

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

Roses (indoor), dozen

0

6

1

6

Lilium lanciloiium, dozen

„ Red, doz. bunches ..

4

0

6

0

blooms .

1

0

3

0

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

C

Lilium longiflorum,pordoz.

6

0

10

0

„ Yellow, dozen .. ..

o

0

4

0

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

Tuberoses, 12 blooms. . . .

0

4

0

6

bunches .

4

0

6

0

PLANTS

IN POTS.

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

S.

d.

Arbor Vitae (golden) dozen

6

Oto 12

0

Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

4

Oto 18

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Ferns (small'i pf r hundred

4

0

6

0

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

Ficus elastica, each ..

1

0

7

6

Asters, dozen pots . . . .

3

0

6

0

Foliage plant?, var., each..

2

0

10

0

Balsams, per dozen . . . .

3

0

6

0

Fuchsia, per dozen .. ..

6

0

9

0

Begonias, per dozen . . , .

9

0

12

1

Ivy Geraniums .

4

0

6

0

Campanula, per dozen

9

0

18

0

Lilium lancifolium per doz.

12

0

18

0

Chrysanthemums, per doz.

4

0

9

0

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen

12

0

24

0

„ large plants, each

1

0

2

0

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

3

0

4

0

Coleus, per dozen

6

0

9

0

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . .

6

0

12

0

Dracaena terminalis, per

Mignonette, per doz .

4

0

6

4

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Dracaena viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Palms, in var.. each ..

1

0

15

0

Ericas, per dozen . ,

9

0

12

0

„ (specimens) ..

21

0

63

0

Euonvmus, var., dozen . .

6

0

18

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

2

0

0

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24

0

Solanums, per dozen..

12

0

15

0

A WHEAT STKAW.

Only a Wheat straw, pulled in an idle moment from a
■waggon load of it which we passed on the top of a ’bus in a
busy London street ! Yet a mere g’ance at it was sufficient to
arrest the attention entirely, so strikingly did it serve to illus¬
trate the lamentable condition of corn crops this year on many
a farm. It did more. The very fact of its having been sent
into market so soon after harvest told of straitened means,

of the urgent need for money that farmers have ; and its miser¬
able appearance showed also how small an amount the entire
crop both of corn and straw would realise. Yery little over a
foot in length, not broken, but clean cut by the reaper at the
bottom, and as slender as short, it showed how poverty of soil
had rendered it unable to withstand the sevex’ity of a drought
through which corn on land rich in fertility has passed com¬
paratively unscathed. It is quite possible that late sowing in
badly worked soil also contributed to its meagre appearance.
Wha'^ever may be the causes affecting its growth from seed
germination to crop maturity, the lesson taught by it deserves
our serious attention.

Is the production of so trashy a crop worth while under any
circumstances in this country ? No ; it is not worth while.
Nothing can make it so ; not even the exigencies of the present
season, when every scrap of fodder has been collected so eagerly,
and the bulk of it on many a farm falls so short of the farmer’s
requirements even for home use. However regarded, the matter
resolves itself into a question of profi" and loss. It is just a
business transaction and nothing else ; nothing can be more
simple. Profitable farming has nothing sentimental about it.
It means a clear gain upon expenditure, a fair interest upon
capital invested in the tillage, cropping, and stocking of the
land, for which a rent of so much per acre is paid. Every acre
must therefore yield enough produce to pay sufficient interest
to keep things going — a fair margin of profit. For this to be
possible under stress of falling prices and foreign competition
there must be judicious cropping, as well as thorough culti-
vation. It is questionable whether our Wheat straw had either
advantage. No doubt it would have been of much more robust
proportions had soil fertility been well sustained on the farm
where it was grown. But it has come to this with us in Wheat
growing, that it is only profitable under every advantage of
seed selection, the best mixed soil, thorough timely cultivation,
and the possibility of selling both the straw and corn. The
straw is now almost as valuable as the corn, a ton of straw
being equivalent on the market to 24 bushels of Wheat.

Do we quite realize wbat foreign competition means ?
Surely not, or the wild, hopeless endeavour to grow Wheat on
poor half cultivated land here would cease. Take one example
out of many, that of Manitoba; there Wheat-growing continues
to be remunei-ative under the present cash price of 50 cents.,
or 2s. per bushel, because it is grown at an average cost of
Is. per bushel. Something considerably beyond the average
is realised on the best land where the yield rises to thirty or
even thirty-five bushels an acre in favourable seasons. There
are thousands of acres of virgin soil as good as the best of this
country not yet brought into cultivation. Nor is Wheat¬
growing in the Far West nearly so speculative as is commonly
supposed. From 1882 to 1892 there were six good crops, and
four inferior ones owing to drought and frost.

It is estimated that this year Manitoba will export 24,000,000
bushels of Wheat, which certainly implies a very comfortable
sum being paid to the settlers. Another thing to be remembered
is, that in all good seasons, Manitoba Wheat is superior in
quality to our home grown produce. On that vast continent,
summer heat, though brief in duration, has an intensity hardly
realised by us. There, growth advances so fast in June and
July that Wheat sown in May may be ready for the reaper in
August Heavy rainfall alternating with long hot days in May
and June induces growth of such extraordinary vigour, that crops
are up and fully grown in a wonderfully short time. Then in
July comes more settled dry and very hot weather, with many
brief thunderstorms, accompanied by heavy rain, then Wheat
ears develop and mature in a manner which would be thought
marvellous in this country, and in all good seasons the reaper is
at work by the third week in August. Clearly then our Wheat
straw with the grain it carries must be of the best for the

324

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 6, 1893.

grain to retain a place on market in competition witt that
grown in the Western States as well as in India and other
countries.

WOEK ON THE HOME FAEM.

Glad were we to hear from an energetic correspondent farming
2000 acres of land that by bringing his steam cultivator into full action
immediately after harvest, and keeping it going daily, he had got the
whole of his arable land clean, and either ready for sowing with winter
corn (v/hich was being done when he wrote to us), or thrown up for
the winter. He also said that he had fed, sold, and got the money for
upwards of 4000 pigs already during the current year. We told long
ago of a tenant of our own who paid all the labour of his three farms
with his “ pig money.” With cheap corn and dear pork every sensible
farmer has largely increased the number of his store sows. It is men
who meet the times promptly, making judicious changes, and throwing
their whole energy into the work, that continue fairly prosperous.

Well, now, a set of steam tackles is only to be met with occasionally,
but much may be done, much has been done this autumn by keeping
horses and men going at full pressure. Some extra corn, extra pay,
the master’s eye and hand guiding and leading has told so well that the
on-coming of winter will be welcomed. Severe weather will probably
set in early (3 inches of snow fell in Cumberland on the 24th of Sep¬
tember), and it will be well to clear roots off the land tolerably early
in October, Mangolds ought certainly to be in clamps before the end
of the month. To all who resolve to increase their swine stock we say,
Eesolve to keep them and their surroundings thoroughly clean. It pays.
Filth retards growth, engenders disease, and eventually leads to those
disastrous outbreaks of swine fever which are so ruinous and altogether
deplorable. Breed well, keeping only young compact sows, paying
especial attention to the selection of a pure-bred male parent ; a Middle
White answers best for porkers, and porkers really well bred and well
fed, weighing about 50 lbs, when dressed, have proved more profitable
with us than any other class of swine.

NEW ZEALAND-A WARNING TO FARMERS.

Since 1874 the profits from farming land in Great Britain have
diminished so steadily and surely, that few men can now obtain a
commercial return on the capital in the occupation therein, and many
are not able to make ends meet, even with such assistance as owners are
able or willing to render. The home papers, which I read as eagerly as
when living in England, show that numerous panaceas are offered to the
farming public by those of their own craft and by city tailors. Some
might be useful, but I cannot see how the farmer can live as in the past
now that British enterprise has brought to his own market the produce
of the virgin lands of the whole earth.

During my twelve years’ experience as a successful New Zealand
farmer I have had wide opportunities of forming an opinion of my fellow
colonists’ abilities in that direction. My sole object in writing this is to
warn farmers not to be misled by the colonising agents, who, in professing
to be the friends of the poor farmer, are far more interested in disposing
of the large areas of land which now lie as an incubus on the banks and
loan companies, greatly aggravated by the crushing graduated land tax.
A British farmer landing in New Zealand with his family and a few
hundred pounds, but without the necessary colonial experience, will
most surely live to regret leaving the old country. Suppose he lands in
Auckland. He will have to find a house, food, and fuel, at a cost of
£2 to £3 a week, until he can look over the offered land, perhaps
150 miles away, and by the time he has satisfied himself his capital has
considerably diminished ere disappointment and failure begin. The
only men whom I advise to emigrate are farmers’ sons who can bring
money, powerful limbs, and a stout heart. These alone are the men who
have a chance of success. Let them place their money in the Post Office
Savings Bank and go to work at the lowest rung of the ladder.

Many of my fellow colonists would strongly object to my showing
the intending emigrant farmers the rocks ahead. They would say “ Let
them come and find it out for themselves, as others have ; we require
money and population.” I am first an English farmer, the only son of
a long line of octogenarian tenant farmers, and I feel that it is my duty to
warn men who have some years’ experience of the dear old country, and
probably families ef young children, not to leave home unless they have
brothers here to care for and direct them.

Thousands of men during the land boom, the offspring of the huge
borrowing and squandering policy of Sir Julius Vogel’s Ministry, bought
up far more land than they could profitably occupy, much of which
would be dear at a gift. These broad acres must be got rid of by hook
or crook, and many hooks and crooks have been invented to secure the
unwary. I think I know most of them. One only need here be
mentioned as a sample. A land agent took me over an estate which
was for sale in the North Island. There were on it a few hungry-
looking calves roaming at will, the only cultivated land being a small
field, in which grass was just coming up. This was shown to me as a
fair sample of what the soil could produce when improved by cultiva¬
tion. Finding a Government engineer laying out roads close by, I stole
a private interview, and gathered from him that, along with the grass
seeds, half a ton of finely powdered bones had been sown per acre. I
escaped ; but the next man was hooked,

I rejoice to say that very many farmers are prosperous and contented ;
but they are, for the chief part, such as I have previously described,
having bought up land at from 5s. to 40s. per acre, and, by years of
unremitting toil, fenced, cultivated, and built homesteads. When

Wheat was worth twice as much as it is at present, they were able to
pay off the whole or part of the mortgages, and now wool and the
frozen meat trade enables them to live in ease and plenty. At present
selling prices of that land the purchaser would have as hard a time of it
as the British farmer, and moreover, would have to reckon with the
moneylenders, who are a different race of beings to the average English
and Scotch landlord. Good farms within easy distance of a shipping
port are realising from £20 to £40 an acre. If your climate were equal
to this, I believe that many colonial farmers would emigrate and take
up land at home. — Sentinel (in the “Field”).

ACORN POISONING.

The following circular has been sent to us by the Board of Agricul¬
ture, 4, Whitehall Idace, S.W. : —

The attention of the Board of Agriculture has been called to the
unusual abundance of the crop of Acorns this season, and it is considered
desirable to warn stockowners who are accustomed to turn cattle into
parks, on to commons, or other places where Acorns are plentiful, that
there is considerable risk of injurious effects arising from the con¬
sumption of large quantities of Acorns, which in the present dearth
of herbage, owing to the long drought, are certain to be eaten with
avidity.

In the years 1868, 1870, and 1884, which were remarkable for a
large yield of Acorns after a long dry and hot summer, serious losses
among young cattle occurred from outbreaks of what is known as the
Acorn disease, or Acorn poisoning. In many districts, notably in
Middlesex, Kent, Hertfordshire, Warwickshire, Lincolnshire, North¬
amptonshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Devonshire, the New Forest,
Sussex, Surrey, Suffolk, Norfolk, and Derbyshire, extensive outbreaks
of the disease occurred. Young cattle up to two years old suffered
most severely. Milch cows and cattle over three years old were seldom
affected. Sheep and pigs appeared to be unsusceptible to the poisonous
action of the seeds, and only two or three cases of the disease were
reported in these animals, while entire herds of young cattle were
attacked and a large proportion of them succumbed.

Acorn poisoning is quite distinct from indigestion due to eating an
excessive quantity of Acorns. This accidental disorder may occur in
ordinary seasons when animals are first allowed access to pasture where
Acorns abound. But the true Acorn disease is distinguished by progres¬
sive wasting, entire loss of appetite, diarrhoea, discharge of an excessive
quantity of pale urine, sore places inside the mouth, discharge from the
nostrils and also from the eyes, which are always sunken, giving to the
animal a peculiar haggard expression. No fever is present from first to
last, but, on the contrary, the temperature is commonly below the
normal standard.

On post-mortem examination it is frequently noticed that all traces
of the Acorns have disappeared. The morbid changes are such as are
seen when an irritant poison has been given.

Remedies of various kinds were tried in the great outbreaks of the
disease, but no cure was discovered. Prevention is comparatively easy
when the risk is realised. It is only necessary for absolute security to
keep cattle from the pastures while Acorns are falling. The danger will
be materially lessened by collecting the Acorns from the pastures, but
this device does not prevent a considerable consumption of the nuts
which fall during the night. It has also been suggested that when
cattle are only allowed access to Acorns during the daytime they
should be supplied with a liberal allowance of food before they are
turned out. It cannot be affirmed that these plans have always proved
successful in practice.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamden Square, London.

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

Date.

9 A.M.

In THE Day.

d

‘3

1893.

September.

1 Barometer

j at 32°, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday . .

24

29-979

48-6

44-2

N.W.

52-5

60-3

35-3

104-9

30-9

—

Monday . .

25

30-004

53-9

49-3

S.W.

51-9

61-9

39-3

103-1

35-4

—

Tuesday . .

26

30-002

52-1

49-9

S.W.

52-6

65-0

45-7

106-4

40-6

0-220

Wednesday

27

29-800

59-1

56-4

W.

53-9

67-8

52-1

107-8

49 9

—

Thursday . .

28

29 854

56-9

53-1

S.W.

54-9

62-6

48-3

79-9

45-2

0-122

Friday

29

29-366

57-9

53-9

S.W.

55-2

65-9

53-9

105-3

50-2

0-074

Saturday . .

30

29-290

55-0

52-4

S.W.

55-0

63-2

51-4

1C4'2

48-4

0.010

29-756

54-8

51-3

53-7

63-8

46-6

101-7

42-9

0-426

REMAKES.

24th. — Almost unbroken sunshine by day ; brilliant moonlight night.

25th.— Frequently sunny in morning ; generally overcast in afternoon ; spots of rain
from 4.30 to 6 P.M. ; moonlight night.

26th. — Overcast early ; generally sunny after 11 A.M. ; spots of rain about 6 P.il.

27th. — Rain from 1 A.M. to 4 A.M., and showers after ; generally sunny during day, and
bright night ; lunar halo.

28th. — Sunshine early and solar halo from 8.30 to 9.30 A.M. ; overcast from 10 A.M., with
frequent spots of rain, and showers in afternoon.

29th.— Bright sunshine and high wind almost throughout ; spots of rain once or twice
in the afternoon, and rain at night.

30th.— Overcast till 10.30 A.M., bright and breezy after ; sharp shower at 1.5 P.M., but
uninterrupted sunshine.

A touch of frost on grass on the morning of the 24th, but on the whole a mild fine

week.— G, J. STMONS.

October 12, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

826

SPECIAL interest attaches to Tomatoes this season, for it has been
an altogther exceptional one in respect to natural advantages,
and consequently the crops have been abundant. Remunerative
returns have been secured throughout the season, these varying, as
they always will do, according to the market and the quality. At
the middle of July a capable grower in the midlands told me that
he had been securing Is. a pound up till that time, and although
the majority of the cultivators in the south who supply the
principal London markets have not realised so much, their returns
have been consistently good, and they will have cause to look back
upon 1893 without the sadness and regret which tinge their recol
lections of some previous seasons.

It is disappointing, to say the least of it, that when the Eden
of the Tomato growers was at its fairest a new serpent should have
entered. Phytophthora infestans and the Gladosporium have often
proved their capacity for giving quite as much trouble and
embarrassment as most growers are able to cope with, and the
advent of a fresh enemy in the Bacterium Halstedi, so graphically
described by Mr. Abbey a few weeks ago, is something approaching
the nature of the proverbial last straw. In all likelihood this
bacterial affection of the Tomato is quite unknown to the majority
of the growers, and especially to such of them as consider them¬
selves quite above the necessity for reading the papers ; but it is
quite likely to spread widely unless something of its cause and
origin are known. All cultivators are not open to knowledge when
it is imparted as the result of microscopical investigation. For
one reason or another they connect such inquiry with abstruse and
devious scientific calculation that has not, and never can have, any
practical bearing. There is certainly justification for such a view
in some cases, but I venture to think that where the investigator
is not only a scientist, but a thoroughly practical gardener, what he
has to tell us is deserving of the most careful consideration. Some
of the market growers, as well as a number of private cultivators;
are of the same opinion, and I happen to know that the success of
Mr. Abbey’s able inquiries into the Tomato disease and the Chrys¬
anthemum mite have attracted the attention of some of the best
and most enlightened of our cultivators.

About the middle of August Mr. Wood, foreman to the
energetic Kentish market grower, Mr. E, Vinson, wrote — “I have
been reading the correspondence on Tomatoes dying in the Journal
of Horticulture, and if you could give me a call you would see for
yourself what the disease is capable of doing. We have 8000
plants in one block of houses, three parts of them dead ; in another
block over 8000 plants carrying a grand crop, and we have not lost
fifty plants out of the latter. If you will come I will give you
my views of the cause.” I took an early opportunity of going;
and saw what I can only characterise as a very remarkable sight.
First let me say that Mr. Vinson is not a Tomato man merely.
He is a large Hop grower, and has numbers of acres of Strawberries,
Raspberries, Potatoes, Scarlet Runners, Cauliflowers and others.
Probably there is no more enlightened and energetic man in the
whole trade. He grows many things and does them all well. In
the case of Tomatoes it would be very difficult indeed to find
better grown plants than his. Those in the fruiting batch were
splendid examples of culture, being stout, sturdy, short-jointed
examples, bearing almost from the ground to the ridge of the

No. 694. — VoL. XXVII., Thibd Sebies.

house. There were about twenty-five houses of Cucumbers and
Tomatoes, but the latter were the most strongly represented. The
variety chiefly grown is Earliest of All, which is well known to be
a very free setter, but has more or less corrugated fruit. In this
case it is, however, found to sell well so long as good and well
coloured fruit is sent to market, but it may be noted that there is
a great deal of variation exhibited by the fruits, some being very
much smoother than others.

I draw attention to the good quality of the fruiting plants,
because I want to make it clear that Tomato growing is well
understood by Mr. Vinson’s foreman, and that the loss of so many
plants from the disease which Mr. Abbey has told us about is not
due to ignorance of the wants of the plant. That the disease is
Bacterium Halstedi there can be little doubt, and Mr. Wood was
of that opinion from the moment of reading the article on page
471, June 15lh, 1893. The plants went off exactly as there
indicated, beginning to droop as a rule just when the first bunch of
fruit was swelling, as though they were too feeble to undergo the
strain. There was the browning of the wood under the skin
at the base of the plant, which gradually spread upward, and soon
the whole of the foliage was wilted and drooping. The spectacle
they presented as they hung withered and lifeless was a most
melancholy one, and the wholesale manner in which they had
gone off was a striking testimony to the potency of the minute
enemy.

The questions now arise : What causes the attack, and can it be
averted in any way ? These queries are of the greatest moment
to all classes of cultivators, and particularly to those who grow
Tomatoes as a means of livelihood. If the disease is capable of
carrying off thousands of plants in the hands of a really capable
man, what guarantee is there that it will not deal out similar
destruction to those of others, and so become a most formidable
enemy ? I might go even further, and without wishing to pose
as an alarmist, ask what security we have against the disease
becoming as terrible an enemy to Tomatoes as the Puccinia was
to Hollyhocks, rendering their successful cultivation almost an
impossibility. Fortunately Mr. Wood is not a rule of thumb
grower, but one who uses his brains, and he has paid the closest
possible attention and given the utmost consideration to the task of
finding out the true cause of the attack which has rendered a large
proportion of his work futile and entailed no inconsiderable loss
on his employer. And he has been rewarded by what he thinks
to be a complete solution of the problem. The explanation turns
on a purely cultural point, and may perhaps be too simple for
Mr. Abbey to accept, but such as it is I draw attention to it for the
benefit of others.

Excess of moisture is at the root of many fungoid attacks, but
it is the opposite condition which the Kentish grower holds re¬
sponsible for the bacterial attack in his Tomatoes. He holds
strongly that drought is as much the predisposing cause as sodden-
ing is of the Phytophthora, and in support of his argument he
points lo the differing condition of two sets of plants. One was
put out after Cucumbers had occupied the space last season. The
soakings the latter received resulted in the ground becoming
thoroughly saturated. Here the Tomatoes have done splendidly,
bearing heavy crops of fine fruit, and very few plants have been
lost. The other set, where such havoc has been wrought, were
planted in compost placed cn a dry subsoil. They have been
watered, but owing to the terribly parching season the lower soil
has never been completely soaked, and here the Tomatoes have
gone off wholesale. These facts are very significant, and even if
everybody does not accept them as a solution at once they will
doubtless admit that “ there is something in it.” As affording
further evidence of the great benefits of an adequate supply of
water Mr. Wood pointed out how much better and more fruitful
the Tomatoes which are near the tanks, or near a leaky tap, or
where the hose has been thrown down, are than those in other

No. 2360.— VOL. LXXXIX., Old Seeieb.

326

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 12, 1393.

parts of the houses. Not only have the plants grown better, but
they have given much finer clusters. Perhaps others who have
been so unfortunate as to experience the disease will be able to say
if they have made any observations with respect to water, whether
for or against the theory here suggested. And if the explanation
is wrong perhaps Mr. Abbey is capable of putting us right.

The point is a cultural one, as I have said, and it opens up the
question whether the great majority of attacks, both of this and
other diseases, may not be classed in the same category. When in
Mr. Bunyard’s nursery a few weeks ago I saw one of the best houses
of Tomatoes I have ever seen, and his manager, Mr. Bass, expressed
a strong opinion that good culture was equal to keeping away these
insidious enemies. He maintains that diseases may be controlled
with the watering pot and the ventilator, and fears none of them.
Hiving or withholding water rnd air are, he holds, at the bottom
of them all, and with judicious management they may be circum¬
vented. This is saying a great deal, and may perhaps be going too
far for many people ; but those who look below the surface will
not be too hasty or too loud in their denunciations. Why does
one person resist, and another succumb to, an infectious disease ;
or why, in one system, does a cancerous growth form and spread,
while in another it is absent ? It is in all probability from the
same cause that some plants escape ravishing diseases while others
fall a prey to them — -namely, from the blood or sap, as the case
may be, becoming morbid or impure. With pure air, adequate
but not excessive moisture, and wholesome food, the stream of life
flows with vitalising force, and the system is fortified against the
mysterious agencies that hover unseen around and open to the
unprotected the gate of death. — Hygienist.

HARDY FLOWER NOTES.

Still, as Allingham says, “ Autumn’s fire burns slowly through
the woods,” and they are aglow with the delightful tints of the
dying leaves fast falling to join the bracken below, which, too, is
bright with the colours with which it adorns itself ere its season is
over. Yet to the gardener it seems as if he were standing betwixt
the autumn and winter, and that the weeping clouds are mourning
the bright days, and in their grief are striving to quench the
thoughts with which the remaining flowers would cheer us. It is
hard when drenching showers and chilly night air are our usual fare
to drive away the pessimistic feelings all too surely pressing upon
us. To the lover of flowers, however, pessimism is not a fitting
mood. Passing clouds of sadness may dim the brightness of the
sunny thoughts which find their way to his heart, but they are but
fleeting, and ere long the visions of beauty which are ever present
to his mind will exorcise the gloom, and he is free once more to
feel, as Longfellow says, that

“ For him the wind, ay, and the yellow leaves,

Shall have a voice, and give him eloquent teachings.”

While, as he commits to the soil the bulbs which another year
will fill him with delight as he gazes upon their hues and forms, he
has cause to look forward with hope. The present, too, affords much
joy. The autumn Crocuses are full of chastest beauty as we look
upon them in clumps in the borders or rockeries, or even when,
as with the rarer kinds, only a few court the faint sunshine of
October. The Michaelmas Daisies are beautiful as before, nay,
shall we not say more delightful now, than when in the eai’lier
months they had to rival the more gorgeous flowers of summer.
The late sown annuals are still bright, and seem to say that they,
too, are well entitled to at least a modicum of praise from our pen.
The Godetias are still beautiful with their cups of ruby, of pink,
or of delicate white, thouah they are dripping with wet, and
thongh the welcome sun shines so faintly upon them. Sweetly
comes the odour of the fragrant Mignonette from the borders,
and the Asters with massive yet perfect blooms are beautiful.
The Cornflowers of various colours, from brilliant blue to the soft
white or the purple hued, have been of greatest value. But of
these one might speak for long, and other flowers perhaps more
seasonable would pass unnoticed.

Yery charming is a clump of Crocus longiflorus, which has been
striving unsheltered to face the furious showers which have come
upon us of late. It cannot be said that it has escaped unhurt, hut
when planted thickly together these little Crocuses are better able
to withstand the gales and rains of the autumn. Few there are who

fail to admire this, exquisite plant with lilac flowers, with yellow
throat and scarlet stigmas, and possessing the merit of being some¬
what irregular in its flowering, some clumps giving flowers much
later than others. Although a native of South Italy, Sicily and
other parts in the same region, this Crocus appears to have proved
perfectly hardy since its introduction in 1843. It is low in price,
and is one which should be in every garden of hardy flowers.
According to Mr. Maw’s arrangement of the Croci, C. longiflorus
belongs to Division I. or Involucrati — i.e., species with a basal
spathe from the summit of the corm, and to Section II., Reticulati,

“ with a corm tunic of distinctly reticulated fibres.” Very pretty
also is C. medius, belonging to the same division and section, but
having bright purple flowers veined in the inside with deeper
purple, and with yellow anthers and scarlet stigmas. Not so showy
as the Long-flowered Crocus, its colour is distinct, and its inclusion
in the garden is to be desired.

Among the most graceful of the Coreopsis is the beautiful
C. verticillata, the Whorled Tickseed, which has been in full beauty
for a long time, and is extremely attractive with its finely divided
leaves arranged in whorls, its furrowed stems, and its rich golden
yellow flowers, not so large as those of some of the family, but
still about inc’n across. It generally grows 2 feet in height, but
varies according to the soil and treatment it receives. Introduced
from the United States so long ago as 1780, it is somewhat
surprising that it is still so seldom seen. C. verticillata appears to
be synonymous with C. tenuifolia, although they are frequently
catalogued as distinct.

From the fact of its having received a first-class certificate
when exhibited at the Fern and Begonia Conference of the Royal
Horticultural Society in 1892, and having thus received what may
be called the “hall-mark” among flowers, the flowering of
Helenium autuinnale striatum has been looked for with considerable
interest in many gardens this year. There would appear to have
been a great demand for this plant, and in all likelihood it has been
extensively propagated, and the plants thus rendered temporarily
weak. This, with the dry season, will account for the comparative
disappointment felt at the appearance of the blooms when fully
expanded. A well grown specimen planted in 1892, which I saw
recently, was so good that one can fully recognise the merits of
this addition to our autumn flowers, its orange and red flowers
produced in great numbers rendering it very fine indeed. There
appeals, however, to be some confusion as to its nomenclature
which it would be well to have corrected at as early a period as
possible. When exhibited by Mr. T. S. Ware it was certificated
under the name of H, grandicephalum striatum. In the Journal
of Horticulture for September 22nd, 1892 (page 267) an excellent
woodcut appeared, and in the notice of the plant the name is given
as H. autumnale striatum. From a careful examination of the
plant and comparison with a flower of H. grandicephalum which
has reached me, I believe H. autumnale striatum to be the correct
name.

Of Michaelmas Daisies there is no end, and from seed there
is so much variation that to endeavour to clear up the nomenclature
of the genus, or to speak correctly of them under name, would be
a difficult and hopeless task. This, at all events, may be safely
said, that we have too many to choose from, and that it
would be well to see the plants in flower and select those which
commended themselves to the intending purchaser. There are few
which can well surpass the beautiful Aster amellus bessarabicus,
of taller growth than the typical amellus, which, it may be, is the
plant whose root Virgil in his fourth Georgic prescribes for sickly
bees. Though we would gladly have this association wedded to
the Bessarabian variety, its beauty in itself is a claim which admits
of no denial, the fine large heads of deep purple flowers command¬
ing admiration everywhere. Very fine also is one grown as
A., spectabilis, which grows to about 2 feet in height, and has
extremely deep coloured purple blue flowers, more starry, per¬
haps, than A. bessarabicus, but of much deeper colour. I must
say, also, that I prefer the habit of A. bessarabicus, but A. specta-
biiis, which comes from North America, is good enough to be
included in any garden. Of A. ericoides, the Heath-like Michaelmas
Daisy, it may be said that few more pretty flowers adorn our
gardens in September and October with its graceful foliage and
white flowers in endless profusion. These and many other
Michaelmas Daisies are of the greatest value in the garden of
hardy flowers, and afford the highest pleasure to their owner.

The hardy Cyclamen still in flower reminds me that, having
mentioned in some recent notes that C. gr^cum was in flower in
my garden, an eminent authority on hardy flowers has in the
kindest possible manner brought to my notice that what I had
under this name was only a variety of 0. bedersefolium, which is
now recognised by botanists as C. neapolitanum. The latter species
varies so much in foliage that it is difficult to recognise the various
deviations as belonging to the same species, and as I had several

October 12, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

327

plants o£ the same character bearing the name of graecum and
differing from all of a large number of C. hederaefolium or
neapolitanum, I did not feel at liberty at the time to reject the
name, especially in a genus so confused in nomenclature as the
Cyclamens. It appears, however, that the true C. graecum is not
known to be quite hardy in this country, and I am glad to have
the opportunity of correcting an error easily made in connection
with this difficult genus. — S. Arnott.

WINTER TREATMENT OF CANKER.

Improving Old Fruit Trees.

Would Mr. Abbey kindly give some advice respecting the
above ?

I have recently succeeded to a garden where the fruit trees are
all more or less cankered, and am very anxious to deal with the
pest as promptly as possible. What means would he advise me to
adopt between now and next spring? Obviously, these old trees
cannot be cut down and thrown away, as young ones take time
coming into bearing. Consequently it is of pressing necessity to
attempt to deal with the canker, and if possible exterminate it. Of
course I shall immediately cut out and burn all diseased branches that
can be spared, but as many of the main srems and large limbs are
affected remedial measures must be attempted.

Would, therefore, Mr. Abbey recommend paring and cutting
away all diseased bark and wood, afterwards painting the wounds
with neat petroleum, or, if that fungicide be too potent, with warm
gas tar ? So far as my experience goes, canker has a great dislike to
an application of hot gas tar. — Inquirer.

[Although it is hardly possible to cure old trees of canker, much
may be efEected towards rendering them more satisfactory in their
growth and crops by judiciously operating on their heads and supply¬
ing nourishment to their roots. The results in many cases exceed the
expectations, so that trees that were doomed to be destroyed as soon
as others could be grown to afford an adequate supply of fruit have
become so profitable that their uprooting has been postponed indefi¬
nitely. Besides, the retention of old trees is in some cases an
absolute necessity in order to have a supply of fruit, which, if not so
good in quality or large in quantitj'^ as desired, is yet useful, and saves
buying. The resolve, therefore, of ‘‘Inquirer'’ to make the most of
his old frees, afflicted though they be with canker, until young ones
planted in properly prepared ground arrive at a productive age, is a
wise one, and worthy of adoption by others similarly circumstanced.

The mode of procedure suggested by “Inquirer’' is the correct
one — that is, cut away all the dead and as much of the cankered
parts as can be spared consistently with the prospects of [iroductive-
ness. All such parts must be burned, not on ground occupied by the
roots of the trees, but where the tire will do no harm, and the ashes
resulting should be at once spread on the ground beneath the trees,
and a foot further from the stem than the branches extend. This is
one of the best possible manures for fruit trees, and restores to the
soil, a small part it may be, yet some portion of the elements
abstracted from it by the roots. Leached ashes — those washed by
rain — have little manurial value ; fresh ashes are a powerful
fertiliser.

“ Inquirer ’' may then, as he proposes, cut away all the diseased
bark, or such portions of it that is brown and dead, but it is not
advisable to cut the wounds of old trees into the quick or live bark
with the object of removing the mycelium of the fungus, if any, for
the swellings in some cases almost encircle the limbs, and to cut these
away entirely would be tantamount to ringing and killing the parts
above them. The wood must not be interfered with, for it is un¬
affected by the fungus, and is necessary for the stability of the limb.
After cutting away the diseased and dead bark, or so much of it
as can be removed without damage to the live bark, dress the wounds
with a solution of sulphate of copper, 4 ozs. dissolved in 6;f gallons of
water, applying with a brush, and well washing out the wounds, but
without the liquid running down the stem. '1 he wounds should be
dry, and if fine weather follows, so much the better, as more copper
will be absorbed by the bark and wood than if rains prevail.
This will do much to arrest the growth of the mycelium of the fungus,
and the tree will take advantage of it in the coming season to throw
out more callus around the wounds, striving its utmost to cover them
with new bark, which may be further accelerated by plastering the
wounds with a mixture of clay and fresh cow manure.

In addition to the pruning, trimming, and dressing the wounds
and cankerous parts, “Inquirer’' may uproot perennial weeds and
burn them, turn the ground over without disturtuug the roots more
than can be helped, yet burying soft weeds that will decay. This
should be done as soon as the leaves fall, and the pruning, trimming,
and dressing of the trees completed. Then apply the following
mixture ; — ISteamed bonemeal and kainit in equal parts, mixed,
spreading it evenly from the stem outwards to a foot beyond the

spread of the branches, at the rate of 3^ lbs. per rod, and as the
surface is loose it may be left for the rains to wash in. But if the
soil and subsoil be dry, make holes with a crowbar, and fill them
with water time after time, following with liquid manure, then fill
the holes with fresh soil pressed firmly down.

Before the buds commence swelling in the spring, spray the trees
when they are dry with a solution of sulphate of copper, 1 lb. to
25 gallons of water, using the knapsack pump “Eclair.” This
should be followed by a dressing of nitrate of soda to the soil
when the trees are starting into growth, using IJ lb. per rod if the
ground be naturally moist, or 2 lbs. if inclined towards dryness,
applying it from the stems to a foot beyond the spread of the
branches.

This is the whole of the prescriptions i advise “ Inquirer ” to-
follow, except if the soil requires draining it must be attended to
first thing, for no fruit tree can thrive in a badly sanitated soil.
7 he prescriptions will be as useful in subsequent years as at present,
only they must be used according to circumstances, and in a less
drastic manner.

I strongly advise “Inquirer” to have nothing to do with petroleum,
and still more so as regards gas tar. Both are strong, yet dangerous
medicines, for though they destroy many insectal and fungal germs
and pests, they may also kill the patients, if n- t cripple them for life.
I have a strong objection to all oils and fats for applying to the
stems and branches of fruit trees on account of their slow but
certain reactions, and even when saponified, as in soft and hard
soap, there is danger in using them at great strength, say 8 ozs.^ of
softsoap to a gallon of water, as is often recommended for dressing
Vines, and the result is they break badly in consequence. Gas tar is
si ill worse, and often enters into the composition of cart grease to
such an extent as to kill the stems of trees to which it is a()plied to
prevent the ascent of wingless moths and beetles. — G. Abbey ]

When exhibited on the occasion of the meeting of the Royal
Horticultural Society at the Drill Hall, Westminster, on September
26th, by Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son, this prettv Orchid attracted
attention. It is the result of a cross between Cattleya Loddigesi
and Laelia pumila. The flowers are of a mauve shade, but the lip
is richly coloured with purplish magenta. J udging by the plant
exhibited the pseudo-bulbs are of a slender growth, nearly a foot
in length, and each bears two bright green leaves. As already,
reported in this Journal an award of merit was adjudged for this
interesting hybrid. — C.

Stenoglottis longifolia.

This is a comparatively recent introduction, and as yet is scarcely
known in gardens. It was sent to Kew by Mr. Medley Wood,
Curator of the Durban Botanic Gardens, Natal, and flowered for
the first time in England in 1889. Previous to this Stenoglottis
was regarded as a monotypic genus consisting solely of S. fimbriata,
a pretty little terrestrial Orchid not uncommon in gardens. S. longi¬
folia does not differ very materially from S. fimbriata in general*
appearance, but is a much larger and finer plant. The chief dis¬
tinction between them, apart from the difference in size, is in the-
leavea. S. fimbriata has short oblong leaves, freely blotched with
black, while the leaves of S. longifolia are longer, ensiform, and
lack the blotches. The flower-scape is erect, about 15 to 18 inches
high, and the upper half is densely clothed with small, deep mauve
flowers with fimbriated lip.

S. longifolia and S. fimbriata are both natives of S. Africa.
They require a cool or intermediate temperature, and should be
potted in a mixture of loam, leaf soil, and sand. Abundance of
water during the growing season is essential. — A. B.

Cypripedium Euryandrum.

This is a handsome and distinct hybrid Orchid that has
been in cultivation for many years. It was raised by Mr.
Seden, of Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, I believe, from crossing the
free-flowering and useful species Cypripedium barbatum with
pollen from the beautiful C. Stonei. The result was a foim quite
intermediate in character between the two species, and possessing a
large share of the attractions of each. The hybridity is especially

328

[ October 12, 1893.

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

noticeable in the petals, which, though considerably longer than those
of C. barbatu m, are yet proportionately shorter than those of 0. Stonei,
and the colouring is shared in an equal degree. The labellum has
a near resemblance to that of C. barbatum, but difEers in the greater
size it attains. The obtuse upper sepal — tinged with crimson, striped
with green and black — also imparts a very distinct attractive
appearance to the flower. The petals are fringed with hairs, and
bear on the upper surface numerous peculiar wart-like protuber¬
ances, while the labellum is dark-coloured, crimson and brown
shades being combined. The foliage is also handsome, being of
rich deep green, in which an approach to tessellating is faintly
visible, and the plant is of vigorous habit, flowering freely, with
similar treatment to that required by other Cypripediums. —
Specialist.

THE PRINCIPLES OF HEATING:

INCLUDING THB ARRANGEMENT OP HOT-WATER PIPES FOR (a) FRUIT HOUSES I
(6) FORCI G houses WiTH BOTTOM HEAT ; (c) BEST KINDS OF FUEL, WITH
THB MANAGEMENT OF FIRES, AND THB REGULATION OP TEMPERATURES.

Silver Medal Essay hy Mr. Harry Corlett, Foreman,, Woolton
Wood Gardens, Liverpool,

Introduction. — This subject covers a very large area, and it is one
which, I am sorry to say, that many gardeners know too little about.
It seems quite sufficient for some of them to know that a house, or a range
of houses, has been erected and fitted with hot-water apparatus by a
horticultural builder ; and, although the work done may be satisfactory
to the builder, yet it does not always meet with the requirements of the
gardener, and as he is the person who, very often, has to earn his liveli¬
hood by the products grown in the houses, the necessity of having some
knowledge of the principles of heating at once presents itself to him.
I trust the day is not far distant when young gardeners will be taught
a thorough knowledge of heating, in a similar manner to what they are
now taught when they should water a plant, because I consider one
quite as necessary as the other from a practical point of view. When
this becomes part of their education we shall then hear of less damage
being done to boilers, pipes, and plants. I will treat the subject from a
scientific point, yet making it plain and practical, with tables and
diagrams attached, for the benefit of those who may require its assist¬
ance, making link by link, as it were, thus forming a chain of infor¬
mation which should be in the possession of everyone who works in, or
receives any benefit from, an horticultural structure heated by hot
water.

This paper must be divided into eight distinct parts — viz.,
(1) Principles of heat, because we must first learn how, and why, hot
water heats a house ; (2) Houses with their various positions, plants,
and temperatures ; (3) The thermometer, to ascertain the different tem¬
peratures ; (4) Pipes to secure the various temperatures ; (5) Boiler
to heat the water in the pipes ; (6) Fuel to heat the water in the

boiler ; (7) The stoker to work the fuel ; (8)
The duties of the stoker. Each part being
individually treated, and, as one is, practically
speaking, of no use without the other, they
must be all linked together to obtain a final
and satisfactory result.

(1), Heat and its Transmission.

A body or substance becomes heated when
brought in contact with or placed under the
influence of any other body or substance hotter
than itself, the colder body receiving the heat
by either of three modes, viz., convection,
radiation, or conduction.

In the “convection" mode the smallest
parts of the body nearest the heat are the first
warmed, and these when heated begin to move
throughout the body, their place always being taken by the colder
parts, and the motions thus started are called convection currents. A
very simple and interesting example of this is to take an ordinary
glass (fig. 47), nearly fill with clean cold water, place a spirit lamp
under the bottom of the glass, and then watch the results. The
particles of water first heated begin to rise in a direct line from the
lamp flame to the top of the water. The colder particles of water
from around the sides of the glass, being heavier than the heated
particles, at once begin to descend, and thus two currents are formed,
the direction of which can be made more apparent by adding a
little fine sawdust to the water previous to putting the lamp under
the glass. This example shows that convection currents carry the

heated parts of a body away from and bring the colder parts nearer
to the source of heat.

In the case of “ radiation ” the mode of transmission is different to
either of the others, the heat being carried through a material medium.
Take an example. Expose a piece of steel to the direct rays of the sun ;
its temperature soon begins to rise from its original point, whilst the
atmosphere around it is scarcely changed, thus showing that one body
may be heated by another body, yet the space between the two will not
be noticeably changed in temperature.*

By “ conduction ” we have yet another mode of transmitting the heat
from one body to another, for a body heated by conduction always
moves in the direction where the temperature is colder, and each
particle of the body, as it moves through the mass, is slightly robbed of
its heat by neighbouring particles. The heat by which the water in a
kettle is boiled is transmitted from the coals through the bottom of the
kettle by conduction.

The three examples given will show the principles by which our
houses are heated. First the heat passes from the furnace through the
boiler plates to the water in the boiler by conduction. It is then trans¬
mitted through the mass of water into the pipes by convection, and
from the pipes to the air in the houses by radiation, and the atmosphere
thus warmed is then at our disposal.*

(2), Houses, their Positions, Plants, and Temperatures.

Assuming there is a particular piece of ground allotted, upon which
a certain number of houses have to be erected, I have drawn a ground
plan as a guide, this, I think, being the most systematic way of laying
a foundation to work upon. The dimensions are given in each case,
which can either be enlarged or reduced to suit various circumstances.

As will be seen by the plan (fig. 48) there is a wall running north to
south on one side, and a wall running east to west on the other side.
The two remaining sides are hedges. Along the wall running east to west
are placed the early, medium, and late vineries, early Peach house, and
propagating Pine house, all of which are three-quarter span-roofed.
The wall running north to south is occupied by a late lean-to Peach
house, while the remainder of the ground between the late Peach house
and the opposite hedge is utilised by three Melon houses, one Cucumber
house, two forcing houses, and one fruiting Pine stove, all of which
are span-roofed. If two forcing houses are not required then J can be
substituted by L, and an orchard house M would occupy the position
of L. On the plan will be found the exact position of the houses,
boiler, sheds. Mushroom house, office, the direction of the hot-water
pipes ; also showing how, by the assistance of valves, each house can
be individually heated without affecting any of its neighbours. The
pipes will perhaps he shown more clearly in the section (to follow).

Vineries. — The early house should be started in December at a
temperature of 45° at night, allowing a rise of 5° during the day. The
heat should be gradually raised until it reaches a night temperature of
G5°, and by this time the Vines will be in flower, when the heat must be
decreased to 60° until the stoning period is over ; then further increase
it to 65° night. This temperature may be continued until the Grapes
are ripe, which will be about the middle of May. After the fruit is cut
admit abundance of air to ripen the wood.

The second, or medium vinery, must be started about the end of
February at a night temperature of 45°. The various temperatures of
the early house will answer admirably for this structure excepting when
occupied by Muscats ; then an addition of 5° throughout will be
necessary. The fruit in this house will be ready to cut about the middle
of July,

The Vines in the late house will start about the beginning of April,
when the night temperature must be kept about 50°, and as the season
advances and the growth makes headway the night temperature should
be raised to 60°, with 70° during the day, allowing a rise of 10° by sun
heat. The fruit in this house will be ripe by September, thus main¬
taining a supply of Grapes from May until January.

Peaches and Nectarines. — The early Peach house may be started
in January at a night temperature of 45° to 50°, gradually raising the
temperature to 55° about this time, when the trees will be in flower.
After the flowers have set again increase the heat until it finally reaches
a night temperature of 60°, always taking advantage of sun heat by
closing the house early, and by so doing raising the temperature to 75°,
which will be found very beneficial to both growth and fruit. Under
such conditions the latter will be fit for the table by the middle of May.

The late house will naturally start of itself about the end of

* R. W. Stewart, B.Sc.,. Loud., “ Text Book of Heat,” chap, x., pp. 191, 192. Published
by W. B. Olive & Co., 13, Booksellers’ Bow, Strand, W.O.

October 12, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

329

February, when a night temperature of 45° will be required. This
temperature should be gradually raised as the season advances ; the
night temperature never exceeding that of 60°, so that very little fire
heat will be necessary to produce ripe fruit by the end of June, when
the trees in the orchard house or those grown on a south wall will
afford a succession.

Melons. — The first Melon seed should be sown early in January in
a temperature of 60° at night and 65° by day. This wdll be found
high enough for seedlings at that time of the year. After they are
finally planted raise the temperature to 70° at night, while that of the
bed must not exceed 80°. In this temperature the fruit should reach
maturity by the erd of April.

For the second house crop the seed must be sown in the middle of
February in a temperature of 65° night. After the young plants are
transferred to the bed afford a rise of 5°, allowing the temperature to
increase to 80°, or 85° sun heat. This crop will be ripe early in June.

Seed for the third house should be sown by the end of March in a
heat of 70° night. The temperatures given for the second house will

of 75° to 80°, with a night temperature of 65°, that of the bed being a
steady heat of 85°. In this temperature the young suckers or crowns will
readily root, and as they grow and the winter approaches the tempe
rature may be reduced to 55° night, 60° day, and that of the bed 75°.
The largest plants in the bed should be grown at one end so that they
may be used as succession plants. The fruiting house will be occupied
by a selection from the succession plants, and they will require a night
temperature of 60° to 65° for winter. As the flowering period arrives
increase the night heat to 70°, and the day temperature 75° to 80°, a
dry atmosphere being necessary at this time, and again when the fruits
show colour a similar atmosphere will be essential, including the
admission of a little air night and day.

Okchaed House. — Here we have a structure which can be used for
the purpose of securing early fruits of Plums, Apples, Pears, Apricots,
Cherries, &c. ; also late crops of Peaches, Nectarines, and Strawberries,
the Strawberries having been forced on shelves in the early vineries or
Pine stove. The two great essentials in an orchard house are abundance
of light and air. Artificial heat will not be in much demand, as a night

SCALE

0 S R3 15 to

■ < I t 1

Fig. 48. — GROUND PLAN. Scale — lialf-moh, eq^ial to 15 feet.

(JB) Propagating Pine Stove. (O') Early Vinery. (X)) Early Peach House. (H) Medium Vinery.
{F) Late Vinery. (G) Late Peach House. (ZT) Melon Houses. (Z) Forcing House. (J) Forcing
House. {K) Melon and Cucumber Houses. (L) Fruiting Pine Stove. (M) Orchard House.

Flow Pipes.
Return „
Valves.

also suit this house, and the fruit will ripen about the middle of July.
After this house is cleared of its fruit it may be utilised by having
late Tomatoes, which would yield a good crop if grown in a dry, cool
atmosphere, and as the winter approaches, the minimum temperature
being 55°.

Cucumbers. — This one house will be found ample, by alternately
planting each side of the house. By sowing seed in September, and
keeping a moist atmosphere of 65° night, while that of the bed is 75°,
Cucumbers will be ready for cutting by Christmas. If seed be sown at
intervals of six weeks there will always be a number of young plants
ready to take the place of the older ones, thus ensuring a regular supply
throughout the year.

Forcing. — These houses are used for compelling plants to bloom at
unnatural seasons. If there are two houses at our command, one should
be kept from 60° to 65°, and the other 70° to 75° night, because the
majority of plants yield the best results when placed in a mild
temperature until the buds have swollen, and then placed in the stronger
heat of the warmer house. As a general rule, plants subjected to too
much heat at first often drop their buds, and thereby frustrate the
object in view. Although the plants will be forced principally by
artificial heat, yet advantage should be taken of all sunshine procurable,
when the temperature may be allowed to rise 10° or 15°, which will
greatly benefit the occupants of the houses. One end of the coolest
house may be used for the cultivation of Figs.

Pines. — The propagating house will require a summer temperature

temperature of 45° will be all that is needed, and even this can be
dispensed with when the weather is not severe ; but should the weather
prove dull and wet during the flowering period, a little fire heat would
be advisable to insure a good setting of fruit.

(To be continued.)

OUT OF TOWN.

Wet and shivering, with almost a chattering of teeth, was the
condition of the quixotic “ foresters ” on arriving at the longed for
destination on one of the rare, cold, rainy nights of the passing away
summer ; hut all temporary discomforts quickly vanished on entering
the cheery home of Mr. Merryweather — a home of sweet flowers,
warm welcomes, good fare, and bright music. Even such white-
bearded and silvery headed ancients that hobbled about after frisky
Fenn at Sulhampstead not long ago must soon forget past shiverings
under a change so pleasant. What wonder, then, that the younger
and buoyant spirits which emerged from the wild forest should
resume their wonted gaiety at once when brought back to the
luxuries of civilisation ? What ! Mr. Merryweather young ; ^ who
has grown-up sons who stage Roses so w^-ll at the shows . Surely
his locks must be “ silvered with past years.” No, he is as
and active as they, and can share in the refined pleasures of life with
equal zest, and is just as quickly, keenly, critical as they are oyer
the merits and defects of the last new Rose. They are
brothers, are these two generations of Merryweathers, in their

330

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

12, 1893.

pleasant home at verdant Southwell ; and to hear them talk about
Roses as if no one was there is a treat.

“ We could have staged grandly to-day, couldn’t we, Harry ?
Did you ever see such a Pig ? and then that Duff, it was
wonderful, wasn’t it ? Yes ; and Dick was lovely, wasn’t she ? ”
and so on through an ideal forty-eight that “ Ned ” was enumerat¬
ing to his brother, but all for the ear of Henry, the head, who would
keep suggesting faults in this Rose and that. “ Ah, but you
should have seen the blooms,” rejoined the youngster. “You
don’t know what you have missed. We could have run Cant hard
to-day ; pity there wasn’t a show before the rain spoilt ’em,” and
so on. 'This perversity of Roses in opening between the shows
appears to be chronic and incurable. It seems to display itself
everywhere ; and the references to varieties by workers among
them, and who become familiar with them, are somewhat puzzling
to an outsider. Fancy the bold liberty in calling the Marchioness
of Dufferin, “Duff;” Margaret Dickson, “ Dick ; ” and Gustave
Piganeau, “ Pig,” and all in the way of endearment, too ! Is it
liot peculiar ? But they will do it will these earnest men, who
spend their lives among Roses, and talk to each other about
them.

“ You have done pretty well at the shows this year — blooms
rather small perhaps, but fresh and bright,” observed he of the
city ; “ but don’t you think you want a little more size ? ”
“ Well,” said the youthful senior, “we can get colour here, there
is no doubt about that ; and give me good form, brilliancy, and
freshness, and they can take the dingy big ’uns. But all the same,
we mean to have more size ; bought a fine piece of land 4 or
5 feet deep of sound loam. You must see it.” “ Another piece !
Then how much land have you now ? ” “ Sixty-five acres.” Thus

has the once little nursery grown, the result of sound knowledge,
good judgment, cultural skill, diligent work, and business enter¬
prise — just the qualities that have made many a once-small
local nursery famed throughout the land, in the case under
notice the growth being mainly stimulated by “Bramley’s and
Roses.”

“ And how are the Bramley’s this year ? ” “ Oh, they are all

right. You must see them.” “ And what do you think of the
newer Roses?’' “Well, some are good; we must look at them
in the morning. The host appeared to be getting uneasy ; in fact,
he was under “ influence,” for his clever daughter was presiding at
the piano in the drawing-room, and sundry friends were singing.
He could endure our prosy talk no longer, and cut it short with a
“ Come, now, let us stop this, and have some music.” “ What,
music after midnight ! It’s bedtime.” “ Bed or no bed, we must
have music. I have a few friends in the house, one or two local
celebrities, and we have to hear them.” Open flew the doors, and
there was a general movement of happy humanity. “ Ah, Herr
Jumpi, allow me to introduce you, also Signor Ponderoso, to
my friend, Mr. Cityman.” Then the concert began, and after
it ended we had not long to wait before it was time to be out and
among the Roses.

No doubt the rain had done something to freshen vegetation,
but it could not have transformed the burnt up pastures of the
south into a mass of green verdure in a night. Refreshing green
was everywhere around — on banks, lawns, hedges, and fields.
"Flowers were flourishing as if there had been no drought. Masses
of Delphinums 8 feet high, golden pillars of the stately Verbascum
olympicum still higher, the pure white bell-shaped Campanula
persicifolia grandiflora, one of the finest of the family, with most
of the best hardy border fiowers in season. On the rockery
glittering golden sheets of Genista tinctoria flora-pleno, in contrast
with dwarf Campanulas of the beautiful turbinata group in various
tints, and Tropteolum polyphyllum trailing over the ground densely
laden with its yellow flowers — all these and others told us there
had been no such drought exhaustion as had to be endured by
flowers and their cultivators in the south. No doubt the soil in
the valley of this fertile district of Nottinghamshire is naturally
rich, deep, and retentive ; but it was hard to think there had been
“ no rain worth mentioning ” for several weeks. Yet go where
one might an idea seemed to prevail that the brunt of the heat
and drought was borne by that self-same place, no matter how
green the fields and bright and fresh the gardens. True, the sun
brought out the Roses too quickly — did not give them time to
“ fill up,” but all the same, broadly and generally speaking,
the land has been a veritable Land of Goshen in the north this
year in comparison with the Sahara-like aspect of country
along the south-east coast, though rich soil and deep culture
have told there like oases in the desert ; but we are scanning
the_ Roses at Southwell, noting more particularly the newer
varieties that had fiourished the best under the burning sun
of 1893.

Amongst Hybrid Perpetuals the following were giving satis¬
faction : — Bruce Findlay, regarded as a valuable addition to the

very bright red Roses, particularly free and attractive in colour ;
Danmark, very fine indeed, after the style of La France, bnt more
globular, the petals thicker and thus more lasting than the old
favourite named ; Duchess of Albany, another of the La France
family, but deeper in colour, in other respects identical with its
parent ; Gustave Piganeau, one of the finest of the newer Roses,
has flowered as well this dry season as during the wet period of
last year, plants dwarf in habit, hardy, and floriferous ; Germaine
Caillot, a flesh-coloured variety, flowered well this season ; Jeannie
Dickson, rosy pink with paler margins, one of the most useful of
the Irish raised Roses ; La France de 1889, a fine large-petalled
Rose of pleasing red colour ; Marchioness of Dufferin, a very full
Rose of a peculiar shade of pink, attractive when yonng, but
inclined to coarseness ; Margaret Dickson, a beautiful fleshy white
Rose, evidently liking a hot season, being so much better than last
year, and very vigorous.

Amongst Teas Ernest Metz is regarded as one of the best pink
varieties of recent years, the stiff flowerstalk holding the blooms
erect ; ani Waban is looked upon as a distinct form of Catherine
Mermet, being darker in colour. The Hybrid Tea Gustave Regis
is charming when the swelling buds show their clear canary yellow
colour, tinted darker on the edge, and the variety is expected to he
a favourite for buttonholes, sprays, and allied forms of decoration ;
and the Bourbon Mrs. Paul is a great favourite, flowers a pleasing
blush white, and plants robust in growth. Those were the most
prominent moderns ; but no one could see the floriferous masses
of the charming Polyantha Roses without admiring them, Madame
A. M. de Mnntravel, Etoile d’Or, Golden Fairy, George Pernet,
Little Dot, Perle d’Or, and The Pet appearing as if each were
trying to outrival the other in productiveness and chaste beauty.
Southwell has evidently a good Rose soil, and the collection of
varieties is very complete. We must, however, leave the Roses
and glance at the fruits.

Every Apple-loving visitor to Southwell is bound to notice
Bramley’s Seedling, for the simple reason that he cannot help it.
Large old standard trees here and there excelling all others in their
loads of fine fiuit ; young orchards in fine bearing condition — trees
which, if practically let alone, open themselves out naturally and
prevent overcrowding, and a forest of young stock standards and
dwarfs, distinct by their sturdy vigour and robust leafage. “Merry-
weather has Bramley on the brain” once observed a brother in the
craft. Yes, he has ; and will keep it there. It makes no difference
to him whether he sells 20,000 trees of it or of other varieties, but
he likes to see his favourite go, as he is convinced that it will do
him more credit than will several others, against which he has
nothing to say ; but his faith is unshaken in his protegee, indeed it
seems to increase with experience. “Look at the trees,” he will
say, as he points to their dark green heads and fine fruit shining on
the branches ; “ then look at others around them. Doesn’t it
speak for itself ? I tell you Bramley’s is a topper — never anything
the matter with it ; fights his way through everything — frost or
heat or canker, and the fruit is always wanted in March.” Then
he goes on to say, “ And I will tell you another good Apple — Lane’s.
Yes, if I were planting for money-making my two chief Apples
would be Lane’s Prince Albert as dwarfs, with Bramley’s in that
form, and as standards. Lane’s will bear tremendously and soon pay,
but cannot wear like Bramley’s. Find a better pair if you can ;
for planting by the dozen or the hundred. I cannot, and I think I
have all the best sorts in cultivation.” As early Apples the two
Southwell favourites are Domino, one of the best of growers and
bearers, in demand not only foi new plantations but for filling
vacancies in existing orchards ; and Russian (Duchess of Olden¬
burg) hardy, early, a free grower and bearer of attractive and
refreshing fruit.

For grafting old trees — putting new and fruitful heads on old
trunks— Bramley’s, by its inherent vigour, excels all others, but
Mr. Merry weather’s method of grafting old trees differs from
the usual procedure of cutting the main branches down to within
6 or 8 inches of the trunk. He simply saws through the stem
helow the branches, pares the top smooth, and inserts scions an
inch or two apart all round between the bark and the wood. Even
if the trunk is cankered new matter is deposited by the young and
vigorous growth, and thus the faulty old stem is encased in new
wood. The strong growths also, as must bo the case, promote corre¬
sponding root extension, and previously worthless old trees are
transformed into bearers of excellent fruit.

I cannot go into other kinds of fruits, except to say that Plums
are grown extensively in Nottinghamshire, Victoria being the
favourite, a purple local variety known as Johnny Raw being also
in demand. As an early dessert Plum of the first quality
Mr. Merry weather says Early Transparent Gage should be grown in
every garden in the land, and perhaps its raiser, Mr. Rivers, will
agree with him. But there must be an end of writing, and so, as

October 12, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

831

our American cousins say, I stop “light here,” and begin to pack
up for home.

“ No you don’t,” sounded an imperative voice, “ there is to be a
meeting to-night of the Gardeners’ Society, and all the best men
will be there.” This implied that in the opinion of the speaker
gardeners are the best men around Southwell. Well, the meeting
was a good meeting of good men, and Mr. Merryweather delivered
a good lecture on fruit growing generally, and the capacity of the
district for sharing more largely in the general supply of high
class produce. Your correspondent ventured modestly to suggest
that the lecturer was right, then hastened away, as he began to
feel his “ out of town ” exercise rather trying, and was glad to get
to London for quietness and rest. — A City Man.

National Rose Society — Mr. Mawley’s Analysis.

The analysis of the Rose seasons of 1886-1893 by Mr. Mawley
(page 303) is very interesting and of great service to exhibitors ; but I
should liie to call attention to some of his deductions, which, I think, are
partly based on erroneous premises and incorrect arithmetical calculations.
Mr. Mawley compares the Crystal Palace Rose Show of the N, R S. in 1893
with that of the same Society in 1879. Although a member of the
National at the time I have no recollection of the Show of 1879, but I
think f )r a fair comparison of the two years it would be also desirable
and necessary to have the comparative number of members and the
number of classes open to exhibitors in each year. These I cannot give,
not having a report for 1879 ; but the members’ subscriptions to the
Society in that year were £217, and for the current year should be at
least £380. Last year they were £368, and 1 am aware of a consider¬
able addition to the roll of subscribers since the last balance-sheet was
published. Another point also to be fully con-idered is the enormous
strides taken in horticultural affairs and increased interest in Rose grow¬
ing since 1879. If, for instance, one only went back even five years and
compared the position of the R.H S. (the leafing Society of horticul¬
ture) and its list of members in 1887 with its roil now, it would show
how this interest has increased. These facts all taken together prove
that a bad Show in 1893 is a much more important item than an in¬
different one in 1879, a date at which the strong revival in flower culture
was really only in its initial stage, and I therefore take exception to the
statement that visitors and exhibitors should as a matter of course
expect bad Shows in a season — a glorious season, too, in many respects 1
— like that of 1893. The remedies are numerous and obvious, and there
were splendid R ses seen this year at other places, notably on the
24th June at Reigate, although there were not many instances of good
flowers at the Crystal Palace on the Ist July ; but as long as our Society
is bound down by hard and fast rules, and, so to speak, tied to the
Crystal Palace, so long shall we be subject to the caprice of fortune in
regard to the weather at the date to which we are fixed six months in
advance.

In going into the analysis, of the average number of times certain
Roses have been shown, Mr. Mawley has made a serious error in regard
to Gustave Piganeau. Last year, as he himself states, it was forty-sixth
and shown eight times ; he now says, “ at one bound ” it has leaped to
No. 8. But it has done nothing of the kind. It was as I say shown in eight
boxes last year and in twenty-four boxes this year, so that according to
arithmetical average it has been shown sixteen times, and should be
bracketed as twenty-third and not eighth. I should also like to know in
how many of the professional and big amateur boxes it was shown, as I
should think that the twenty-four exhibits came almost entirely from
these sections.

I also find that Ernest Metz should not come in the Tea Rose
analysis at No. 7, but bracketed at No. 15 with “ Madame Hoste,” as the
average for 1892-3 is 21 — viz., 12 -p 30. My view of Ernest Metz is
quite in agreement with that recently expressed in your Journal by
Mr. D'Ombrain (page 201). The Rose is app<rently a great pet of
some of the professionals, although, strange to say, they have not
hitherto shown it to great advantage or to any extent in the N.R.S.
class specially set apart for it at our metropolitan meeting.

There is no doubt, and in this 1 entirely agree with Mr. Mawley, and
have elsewhere stated so, that Horace Vernet and Mrs John Laing have
been most satisfactory Roses to many exhibitors this year. I do not
suppose Horace Vernet has ever been so frequently and so splendidly
staged as it has been in 1893, and the flower which won the N.R.S.
medal at the Crystal Palace for Messrs. Harkness was probably the
finest specimen shown during the year.

I am surprised that Mr. Mawley has not named Mr. B. R. Cant’s
Prince Arthur amongst the H.P.’s which have been a great success this
season. It has seldom been seen to greater advantage, and with Roses
such as Duchess of Bedford and Earl of Dufferm as well as Horace

Vernet (which three are difficult of culture) shared the honours amongst
the deep reds.

In reference to what Mr. Mawley says about the peculiarity of the
season in certain varieties and his deductions therefrom, I should not
describe Dupuy Jamain or Duke of Wellington as late-flowering
varieties in any year, nor would I class La France merely as an early
bloomer, but as a true perpetual, flowering early and late ; and as to
A. K. Williams, I may mention that in the N.R.S. new catalogue that
Rose is specially described (why, I cannot tell) as “good in autumn.”
A. K. Williams is always good, but it is better in the summer than
autumn with most people.

I am very pleased to see that Mr. Mawley has at last brought the
beautiful Rose Ethel Brownlow into his analvsis, and literally and
truly “ at a bound ” it takes the position of No. 20. If that position
were on the year’s exhibits Ethel Brownlow would be No. 14. There is
no Rose which excels it in beauty of form and colour, and its rival in
these qualities I consider to be Comtesse de Nadaillac, which in 1893
has been the Tea Rose most frequenily shown, the hot weather suiting it
to perfection. — Charles J. Graham e, Croydon,

Every Rose lover will unite in tendering hearty thanks to “ E. M.”
and those who assisted him for the interesting analysis of our favourite
flower in the last issue. Personally I have never felt that this was the
best way of arriving at, say the best twenty or thirty Roses for an
intending aspirant for Rose fame to select ; but it is none the less
interesting on that account. I have always thought that it showed
rather the Roses that stood best the test of certain seasons ; this has
been particularly brought out in the present analysis. I fancy that any
exhibitor would prefer Ulrich Brunner to Marie Baumann, and yet the
average is nearly four higher in the former. Only our old departed
friend “Rushton” Radcliffe, I think, would agree with this, and he
never could forgive her modest behaviour in hanging down her
head, and on this account would never place her amongst the first
forty-eight !

Then a season that is inimical to a certain Rose has an effect of a
very damaging character on its position for many years. La France, fo •
instance, has disagreed with this dry season, or vice versa. Although it
often refuses to unfold in wet weather, certain it is that in the early
and in the thickest portion of the exhibition season the specimens of
La France were not only few and far between, but they were also
mediocre in character. Marquise de Castellane being one of the
earliest in bloom, I suppose had retired from the fray before the
National ; whilst Marie Finger with me declined to exhibit her charms
till late, but then I thought her finer than usual. Gustave Piganeau is
a great acquisition. It may not be a very good grower, yet it gives
many blooms and these decidedly large, and it is in my experience one
of the very best autumn bloomers. I should think this will be
considered the Mrs. John Lainir year, and it is one of the brightest gems
in the Rose crown of my old friend who was too early taken from us,
the late Mr. Henry Bennett. A curious circumstance connected with
this Rose and showing how much it enj lyed the past season was the fact
that at one of the West of England Exhibitions (Bath, I think) in the
class for any variety of Rose, twelve blooms, there were five stands, and
every one of them was Mrs. J. Laing. I looked down the list to find
Augustine Guinosseau. Though so similar except in its colour to La
France, with me it has this season given more beautiful flowers than
La France, and yet my plants of the larter are as four to one. I am
disappointed to see her only conspicuous by her absence.

In the Tea classes Catherine Mermet will always be hard to beat.
Her sports will probably be her most dangerous competitors, but it
must not be forgotten that by the date of the National Exhibition the
great beauty of its most dangerous rival, Mardchal Niel, is a glory of
the past. I apprehend very few exhibitors would place Mar6chal Niel
at its best at No. 9. In form, substance, and eolour it is the equal of
Catherine Mermet, whilst in size it surpasses her without the shade of
coarseness which size sometimes brings with it. Mardchal Niel requires
a sort of protection when grown in the open ; its weight makes it a
hanging flower, and the peculiar formation of the seed vessel is provo¬
cative of decay in wet weather. The stem is inserted into a hollow as
it were, and in dripping times this hollow is generally full of water, and
this proves, in my experience, a fertile source of decaying blooms. Hence,
were I growing iviarbchal Niel against an outside wall I should always
endeavour to give a foot of shading at the least overhead. The sports
of Catherine Mermet seem to follow the good example set by the parent.
The Bride and now Ernest Metz are splendid Roses. Will Waban,
another of the tribe add to the eclat of the parent? I have only seen
it on starved plants, and therefore hard to judge ; but form, substance,
and colour are there, and I think it must soon be found in the
analysis.

“ E. M.” (page 303) will forgive my suggesting the date of Cleopatra
as too recent. This must be the case unless my friend Mr. II. Bennett
sent me a plant before he put it into commerce, as, unless I make a
great mist..ke, it was in 1888 when be stmt it to me. It is certain to
rise above its present position. “ E. M.” has this year, I think, added
very much to the value of the analysis by giving, for the benefit of
beginners, a select list of good varieties. I’o this list few will take
exception ; but they may wonder with me why, in the face of the
analysis, Catheiine Mermet, Comtesse de Nadaillac, and The Bride are
omitted from the Tea list! Still, thanks many to “E. M.” and his
^ helpers. — Y. B. A. Z.

832

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 12, 1893,

The Weather ih London. — Since publishing our last issue
much rain has fallen in the metropolis. On Friday evening it rained
heavily for several hours, as it likewise did late on Saturday. Sunday
was fine, the same applying to Monday, but an inch of rain fell on
the evening of the latter day in some localities. Tuesday night was
wet, and Wednesday opened similarly, the rain continuing throughout
the day.

- The Weather in Scotland,— Mr. G. McDougall, Ravenna

Cottage, Stirling, writes Rain fell here in September on twenty-two
days. The greatest amount in any one day was 0'385 inch, on the 29th.
Total for the month, 1-447 inch. Warmest day the 2nd, with 79 3°
maximum and 55° minimum. Coldest day the 2l8t, with 49-1° maximum
and 33° minimum. Frost occurred on three nights, 10th, 12th, 11th
severest, 30-8°. Mean maxima 63-2°, mean minima 43-6,

- Complimentary Dinner to Mr. H. Turner. — On Monday

evening last Mr. Harry Turner, of Slough, was entertained at dinner
by a number of friends at the Gardening and Forestry Exhibition,
Earl’s Court, in recognition of his services as president of the horti¬
cultural section of the Exhibition, Mr. Milner, F.L.S,, C.E,, presided,
and warmly eulogised Mr. Turner’s services in organising the numerous
floral exhibitions that have been held during the season and in the
decoration of the gardens, A handsome epergne was presented to
Mr. Turner as a memento of the occasion.

— — The Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. — Intending sub¬
scribers are respectfully reminded that the collecting cards recently
issued amongst the gardeners and general nursery trade throughout the
country should be returned during the course of the ensuing month.
It may be stated again that every 5s. collected will secure a vote for
the next election, and every £5 a vote for life. It is earnestly hoped
a very liberal response may be made to this appeal in order to meet
the requirements of the present year. Collecting cards may still be
obtained on application to the Secretary or any member of the Com¬
mittee. — A, F, Barron, Hon. Sec., Royal Horticultural Gardens,
Chisivick.

- Help for Gardeners’ Orphans. — A grand evening concert

will be given at the Assembly Rooms, Surbiton, on Wednesday evening,
October 25th, 1893, in aid of the Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund.
Among other distinguished patrons of the concert are the Mayor
and Mayoress of Kingston, the Recorder (C. W. Bardswell, Esq., J.P.),
Sir Douglas Fox, J.P., and Lady Fox, J, P. Trew, Esq., Mrs. Shrubsole,
W. A. Bevan, Esq., and Mrs. Bevan, H. K. Studd, Esq., Mrs. Nops,
G. C. Sherrard, Esq., J.P., and Mrs. Sherrard, H, C. Paice, Esq., and
Mrs. Paice, E. T, Coppinger, Esq., and Mrs. Coppinger, W. Furze, Esq.,
and Mrs. Furze, and Ernest V. Douet, Esq. The concert will commence
at 8 P.M. Carriages at 10.15, The prices for admission are — Stalls, 5s. ;
numbered reserved seats, 3s,; centre seats, 23.; back seats, Is. An
excellent programme has been arranged, and tickets may be obtained
of Messrs. Bull & Son, Victoria,Road, Surbiton ; Mr. W. Drewett, Market
Place, Kingston ; of any member of the Committee ; and of the Secretary,
Mr. A. Dean, 62, Richmond Road, Kingston.

- Potatoes at Chiswick.— The late Potatoes grown in the

trials at Chiswick this year were examined on the 5th inst., and the
cooking qualities of some of the best cropping varieties tested. Three
marks of merit were recorded for the following varieties -.—Major
T. Neve, large white round, clean, heavy crop, and tubers of good
quality. Success (Alpen), large, oval-shaped white, very good crop and
quality. Crawley Prizetaher, flattish round, great crop, uniform good
sized tubers of satisfactory quality. Similar marks were recorded for
Boston Q. Q. (Quantity and Quality) and Conference, thus confirming
their excellence of last year, and the certificates subsequently awarded.

- Floral Decorations for Royalty in South London. —

The Prince of Wales and the Duke and Duchess of York paid a visit to
Camberwell in order to open the new South London Art Gallery,
Reading Room, and Lecture Hall on Monday last, and then the Prince
proceeded to open the Central Library and Public Garden, which are

situated a short distance away in the Peckham Road. The floral
decorations on these occasions were done by Messrs. E. D. Shuttleworth
and Co., Albert Nurseries, Peckham Rye, S.E.

- A SUBTROPICAL BOTANICAL laboratory has been established

at Eustis, Florida, under the direction of Prof. Swingle. According to
“ Nature,” the diseases of fruits belonging to the “ Aurantiaceae ” are a
special subject of investigation.

- Stray Tomatoes. — In reference to this subject (page 312) I

always find many plants come up about midsummer on the plot of land in
my garden that was cropped with Tomatoes the previous year ; I have never
moved them into a suitable position and given them proper attention.
Would a strain selected in this manner be likely to prove more
hardy ? — Y.

- Siren GIGAS (page 288). — This insect is far from rare, but

is often confounded with the hornet. I have from time to time had
several specimens in my possession. It has no sting, hence in this regard
it is wholly harmless. It is or used to be classed as a Tenthredo, and
belongs to the tribe of the saw-fly, so greatly abhorred by farmers and
gardeners. It has merely an ovipositor and accessories. It is these
which are mistaken for the sting. — J. E. Rogward.

- Gardening Appointments. — Mr. Charles Puddiphatt, for six

years second in the gardens with Mr. G. Garner, late of Amberwood,
Christchurch, has been appointed head gardener to Sir Anthony Cope^
Bramshill House, Winchfield, Hants. Mr. J. Bennett, late gardener to
the Hon. C. H. Wynn, Rfig, Corwen, N. Wales, has been appointed
by Mr. Wynn to the position of steward and bailiff on the same
estate. It is pleasing to note this recognition of merit, and Mr.
Bennett may well be trusted to give a good account of his stewardship
in his new position. We presume that Mr. Bennett will now terminate
his exhibiting career. It is, however, very fitting that he should
finish by securing the chief fruit prize at Shrewsbury, which he did
two years in succession. Mr. W. Coleman, for many years the skilful
head gardener at Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, is now appointed estate
agent, and is succeeded as gardener by Mr. Frank Harris.

- The Use of Allotments. — In Lincolnshire, where there is an

enormous number of allotments under cultivation, the reports from the
different villages show that in spite of the hot season the occupiers have
had a very successful harvest. In numerous instances the men have
secured two quarters from a rood of Barley, and as much as 2 tons of
tubers have been raised from a rood of Potatoes. The latter, especially,
have paid remarkably well, and some labourers have made as much as
£5 of their surplus produce after providing for their domestic require¬
ments. The demand for additional allotments and small holdings still
continues.

- The Wakefield Paxton Society. — At a recent meeting of

this Society, Mr. Campbell, gardener to Mrs. Micklethwaite of Pain-
thorpe, read an essay on ” The Apple.” For flavour, the essayist
considered the English Apple was second to none, and if cultivated
with care it would hold its own against the American and Australian
Apples that were being so largely imported. During an in' cresting
discussion Mr. Hudson strongly recommended Potts’ Seedling to
amateurs, as better even than Lord Suffield, being firmer, good bearing,
and keeping longer. Mr. Skinner, Silcoates Nursery, offered some
valuable remarks on Apple culture, and in reply to questions said that
if he were planting an orchard for posterity he would use the Crab
stock, but if for quick and heavy bearing for a few years the Paradise
stock was preferable. He also commended judicious branch and root
pruning, and condemned ringing as unnecessary.

- Gardening versus Farming. — A daily contemporary remarks :

— “ What the shrewder sort of country people are doing in face of the
agricultural depression is very well shown by the tabulated census
returns. The farm servants, it appears, have decreased to the extent of
about 10 per cent., but counterbalancing that there is a very large
increase of gardeners, seedsmen, and nurserymen. In other words, the
rural population, for good or ill, are acting on the belief that it does
not pay to be connected with farming while there is still a living to
be made in gardening and the various industries dependent on it.
Never in history was gardening more popular than it is just now. Some
take it up for profit, but many more for pleasure or convenience. It
has become the countryman’s source of livelihood and the citizen’s
recreation. The poor man has found out how advantageous it is to
cultivate vegetables for the table, and the rich middle classes have
tasted the delight of growing flowers.”

October 12, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

383

- Proposed Park for Manchester, — It is reported that the

Manchester Corporation are negotiating with the owners with the view
to purchasing 134 acres of the Booth Hall Estate, including the
picturesque Boggart Hall Clough, for the purposes of a cemetery and
an open space.

- Dr. 0. Loew, op Munich, well known for his investigations

of the nature of protoplasm in connection with Dr. T. Bokorny, has, we
understand, been appointed Professor of Agricultural Chemistry in the
University of Tokio, Japan ; and Dr. D. Brandis, Professor of Forestry
in the University of Bonn. ,

- Ecklinville Apple. — I agree with Mr. Molyneux (page 317)

as to the tenderness of this Apple when ripe, but would point out
the fact that it is of a sufBcient size and good appearance in a
green state to “ market ” early in the season, when it would not bruise
more than other Apples. — Y.

- Earthing up Winter Greens. — Mr. G. Garner, Cadland

Park, Southampton, writes — “A few weeks since I advised in this
Journal those who were troubled (as we were at that time) with
clubbing in winter Broccoli to thoroughly tread the ground around
each plant and then draw some soil up to the stems. At the present
time the advantage of doing this is plainly to be seen here in the mass of
small white roots which have emanated from the stems and taken full
possession of the soil.”

- Pipe Raspberries in October.— The same correspondent

observes : “ On October 4th I gathered a small dish of ripe Raspberries
in these gardens. It is not a very uncommon occurrence I know to be
able to gather the above fruit so late as this month, but the Raspberries
referred to grew upon summer fruiting sorts, and were of excellent
flavour.”

- Potato Experiments in America. — We learn from the

“ Garden and Forest ” that some Potato experiments have been con¬
ducted at the Michigan Agricultural College for two or three years
past, with a view to show the results of growing Potatoes under a
mulch as compared with the ordinary method of cultivation. In a dry
season it was considered that mulching may be profitable. The Potatoes
grown under the mulch were of excellent quality and almost entirely
free from scab. The unmulched Potatoes were badly affected with scab,
and although the yield was heavier, the quality was inferior.

- Distribution op Plants. — In addition to the previous

announcement regarding this subject (vide Journal of Horticulture,
September 28t.h, page 289), it is stated that the Commissioners of Her
Majesty’s Works and Public Buildings intend to distribute this autumn
among the working classes and the poor inhabitants of London the
surplus bedding-out plants in Hyde and the Regent’s Park and in the
Pleasure Gardens, Hampton Court. If the clergy, school committees,
and others interested will make application to the Superintendent of
the Park nearest to their respective parishes, or to the Superintendent of
Hampton Court Gardens, they will receive early intimation of the
number of plants that can be allotted to each applicant, and of the
time and manner of their distribution. Any costs of carriage must be
borne by the recipients,

- Tea Cultivation in Ceylon. — An Indian paper observes

“ We have more than once lately pressed upon the attention of our
planting readers that their lands cannot go on producing Tea crops from
year to year from the same soil without eventual exhaustion sooner or
later of some one or more of those ingredients which are essential to the
quality of the Tea that the land produced when it was first cultivated
It may be, and we believe it is true, that there are comparatively few
Tea estates where the restorative process has become imperative ; but
what we contend for is timely help to those which have not yet begun
perceptibly to suffer for the want of it. Tea is a much more critical
product for the cultivator than Coffee ever was. Though the bush is
hardy in growth, and in same senses easy to grow, the leaf when grown
cannot in the course of Nature remain permanent in quality while the
soil that produces it is being drawn upon year by year for the same
essential ingredients. One by one, as each in turn becomes scarcer, the
leaf will feel more and more the deficiency. Tea planting in Ceylon is
as yet a young enterprise. Estates that were old before they were planted
with Tea. become more quickly exhausted than younger ones ; but as
yet they do not form a large proportion of the whole, and they would
benefit by an early application of restorative ingredients and conditions
such as are not of merely stimulating nature.”

- The Brussels Botanic Garden.— It would appear that the

King of the Belgians takes an interest in horticulture, for on Saturday,
September 23rd, His Majesty paid a visit to the Botanic Garden.
M. Louis Lubbers, the Director, conducted the royal visitor through the
various departments of the garden, and into the principal houses.

- The Natural History Society of Danzig has offered a

prize of 1000 marks for the best essay on the best means of producing
and spreading fungus epidemics for the destruction of insects injurious
to the forests in Western Prussia. The essays, says ” Nature,” must be
written in German or French, and are to be sent in before the end of
the year 1898.

- Greek and Persian Flora. — Some interesting reports of

the botanical excursion of Dr. E. von Halficsy in the Pindus range in
Greece, and of that of Dr. J. Bornmilller in Persia, were recently given
in a foreign contemporary. Dr. Bornmiillef describes the flora of the
neighbourhood of Bushire in March as being especially rich and
beautiful.

- Su MMARY OF METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS AT HODSOCK

Priory, Worksop, Notts, for September. — Mean temperature of
month, 55'3°. Maximum on the 4th, 75’5° ; minimum on the 12th, 30 2°.
Maximum in the sun on the 3rd, 128'5° ; minimum on the grass on the
12th, 221®. Mean temperature of air at 9 A.M., 571° ; mean temperature
of soil 1 foot deep, 56-7°. Nights below 32°, in shade one ; on grass ten.
Total duration of sunshine in month, 134 hours, or 36 per cent, of
possible duration. We had one sunless day. Total rainfall, 0‘85 inch.
Rain fell on twelve days. Approximate averages for September: Mean
temperature, 65'5° ; sunshine, 110 hours; rainfall, 2'26 inches. Another
fine and dry month of average temperature. The rainfall is less than in
any previous September, except 1884. — J. Mallender.

- The Weather Last Month. — September was chiefly bright

and dry until the 22nd, but more changeable and showery afterwards. We
had nineteen bright days, three of which were clear. Wind was in a
westerly direction nineteen days. The total rainfall was 1'20 inch,
which fell on thirteen days, the greatest daily fall being O' 40 inch on
the 8th ; the total is 1'81 inch below the average for the month.
Temperature was higher than usual. We had not enough frost to injure
the Dahlias and other tender plants, which is quite unusual for this
locality. Highest shade temperature was 79° on 6th, lowest 34° on 12th ;
lowest on grass 29° on 24th. Mean daily maximum, 66 23° ; mean daily
minimum, 45 93°. Mean temperature of the month, 54'26°. Barometer,
highest, 30'34 inches at 9 A.M. on 12th ; lowest, 29'28 inches at noon on
30th. The garden spring ran 11 gallons per minute on 30th. —
W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall Gardens, Stamford.

- Jaffa Oranges, — The British Consul at Jerusalem has

recently sent to the Foreign Office a translation of a report by an
engineer of the Turkish Government on a scheme for irrigating the
plains and Orange gardens of Jaffa, in which, incidentally, some
interesting information is given in regard to the famous Jaffa Oranges.
The town, it is said, owes its importance to its climate, which is
extremely favourable for Orange growing. In consequence the port
is surrounded on the land side by Orange groves, covering an area of
about 1780 acres. Jaffa Oranges, on account of their excellent flavour,
have of late years acquired a world-wide reputation, and while some
eighteen years ago they were known only at Beyrout, Alexandria, and
Constantinople, enormous consignments are now exported to Europe,
America, and even to India, and the cultivation has consequently
increased to a very considerable extent. A special feature of Jaffa
Oranges is that they will keep from thirty to forty days, and, if properly
packed, for two or even three months. New Orange groves are continu¬
ally being laid out, and the total number is now about 400, against 200
fifteen years ago. The exports for the last few years have averaged
36,000 boxes per annum, and owing chiefly to this trade Jaffi ranks
next to Beyrout in importance among Syrian coast towns. Orange
growing in Syria is conducted exclusively by natives. Each Orange
garden contains about 2000 square feet of planted area, equal to about
1300 trees to 2J acres. The trees begin to bear the fourth year after
planting, but it is estimated that it takes seven and sometimes eight
years before an Orange orchard yields a remunerative crop. During all
this time, and even afterwards, the orchards have to be watered
continually, and this irrigation is the most difficult and laborious part
of the work, inasmuch as the water has to be drawn by means of
primitive water-wheels from wells dug in the gardens 90 feet and even
100 feet deep.

834

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 12, 18Mi

_ The Weather in West Yorkshire. — The weather in the

Bingley district still continues of an open character, no frost having
been experienced of any consequence. Borders and beds are still
gay with Dahlias, Sunflowers, Chryganthemums, and other flowering
plants. — T. H. B.

_ Hampton Court Gardens. — About 4 acres of private gardens

at Hampton Court Palace, which have hitherto been maintained out of
the privy purse, but to which the public have for many years had free
access, are about to be transferred to the management of the Board of
Works, and the expense borne by the Parliamentary vote.

- WooLTON Gardeners’ Mutual Improvement Society. —

The members of this Society will open their winter season by giving
a concert in aid of their library and the Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent
Institution. The Chairman of the evening will be Holbrook Gaskell,
Esq., T.P. The Committee have also arranged an excellent series of
papers for the winter meetings. — R. P. R.

- The Potato Problem (pp. 266-288). — The solution of this

is that owing to the weather the crop of late Potatoes is growing
again generally and well, as I experience to my cost, some becoming
flabby, others watery at the end and uneatable. In many instances
people took up their early Potatoes safely, and at once replanted, the
result being now a good crop of sound young Potatoes. On one occasion
when the tubers began growing again I let them remain till late in the
season, using for the table the young ones which came, and bestowing
the others in the piggery. — J. B. Rogward.

- Sophora japonica. — As an ornamental tree this Sophora,

says an American contemporary, is hardly appreciated. It is very hardy,
of good habit, free from the attacks of insects and fungal diseases, and
the leaves are of a beautiful dark glossy green. The yellowish white
pea-shaped flowers are produced in great terminal clusters, and well-
established trees flower freely during two or three weeks. This Sophora
is certainly one of the beat of the medium-sized exotic trees which we
can plant. Large specimens are not common in America, although
S. japonica was one of the first of the eastern Asiatic trees introduced
into European gardens, where it was sent by Thunberg, who found it
cultivated in Japan more than a century ago, and who mistook it for a
Japanese tree.

- The Origin op the Peach, — It has never been clearly

ascertained what was the original parent of the Peach. It is, however,
well known that the Peach, the Almond, and the Nectarine can all be
developed, the one from the other ; and it is, therefore, reasonable that
all had the same origin. It has been supposed that the Almond was
really the antecedent of the other two. Recently, however, there has
been found a wild plant in the north of China, which is considered a
good species, and has been named Amygdalus Davidiana, and it fs
believed that this is really the parent of the Peach and its allies.
According to “ Meehan’s Monthly,” all that is known of the Peach and
Almond is that they were in cultivation as garden plants as far back as
written history goes.

- A Cocoa Palm Weevil. — A Jaffna correspondent writes : —

“ About here Cocoa Nut trees in full bearing, and generally the best
bearing trees, are attacked by the red weevil. The presence of the larvaj
is detected by a black spot, from which there flows a reddish liquid, sap
or otherwise. It is asserted that a Cocoa Nut tree attacked by the
red weevil can be saved by cutting a hole in it, extracting all the weevil
grubs that can be found, and fumigating the hole with the smoke of
burned Chilis to kill any grubs that may remain in the tree ; but we do
not think there is any experienced Cocoa Nut planter who believes in
this remedy. We have tried it without success ; and we have also tried
injecting turpentine into the tree with a syringe, but this also did no
good. Of the alleged remedy of driving nails into the tree we have not
previously heard, and it would not be safe to try it without being sure
of its efficacy, because if it should fail the larvae would mature into
beetles, and the beetles would in turn breed progeny to destroy more
trees. We believe the best thing to be done with a tree attacked
by the red weevil is to chop it in pieces, feed the fowls with all
the grubs that can be found, and burn the remains of the tree so
as to destroy any weevils or weevil grubs that may be concealed in
the pieces. Our opinion is, that a tree attacked by the red weevil is
doomed any way, and that all that can be done is to prevent more trees
from being destroyed by the progeny of the weevil and weevil grubs
which it contains.”

- Mr. George Cannon. — Mr. Cannon, who has been for a

number of years manager in Messrs. C. Lee & Sons’ nursery at
Ealing, is about leaving their service, as he has taken to the business
carried on for so many years by Mr. George Weeden, St. John’s Nursery,
Matlock Lane, Ealing. Educated at Osborn’s Nursery, Fulham, and
then four years with Messrs. R. Smith & Co. at Worcester, he twenty-
nine years since entered the service of Messrs. C. Lee & Son, taking
charge of the Ealing nursery, the business of which he developed to a
considerable extent, and made a reputation as a successful cultivator of
fruit trees, shrubs and trees of all kinds, and especially as a landscape
gardener, having with marked ability laid out many gardens and
pleasure grounds at Baling and elsewhere, and planted open spaces.
Mr. Cannon is so deservedly popular in the trade, and especially so at
Ealing, where he is widely known, that a host of good wishes will
follow him as he enters upon business on his own account.

- The Kingston and Surbiton Gardeners’ Association. —

The new quarters of this Society, the hall adjoining the Y.M.C.A., Eden
Street, was occupied for the first time by the gardeners on Tuesday
evening, October 3rd, when, as previously announced, Mr. James Martin,
from Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading, gave a most interesting address
on the Begonia. There was a large attendance of members, and
Mr. J. P. Trew presided. Some new members were also admitted. The
lecture was illustrated oy a number of plants showing diverse forms and
species of the Begonia, both tuberous and fibrous rooted, also very
fine double and single flowers. The President, says the “ Surrey
Comet,” expressed the exceeding pleasure he felt in being present,
honoured the gardeners for their evident desire to increase their pro¬
fessional knowledge, and said that life without beautiful flowers would
be almost unbearable. At the close of the lecture, listened to with
deep interest, a very hearty vote of thanks was proposed to Mr. Martin
and to Messrs. Sutton & Sons and unanimously carried, as was also
a similar compliment to Mr. J. P. Trew.

- Allotments. — So customary is it the case now that allot¬
ments for working people are found in rural districts, that I was greatly
surprised when recently in a somewhat pretentious parish in Surrey,
where there is a railway station and a large population, with soil for
garden purposes of the very best, to find that there were no allotments.
Possibly the local authorities have not yet begun to realise that to have
made no provision for allotments is becoming a matter of reprehension.
Why, in myriads of thinly populated, indeed almost poor parishes, one
meets with them, and it is one of the most pleasing aspects of the
subject that workers manifest such desire to possess allotments, that
tenants can be found in abundance provided the conditions of letting
are such as can be agreed to by workers. There is a considerable
number of workers of various sorts in the parish I have referred to, and
it would be interesting to learn whether these have made a request for
a supply. Sometimes landowners offer ground ere application is made,
frequently after, and occasionally failing any supply of allotments in
that way the local authorities have to intervene. That is the case here
in Kingston-on-Thames, where, the land being largely in request for
building, it has been found needful to invoke the aid of the Corporation,
and as ground for the erection of an isolation hospital seems to be abso¬
lutely essential, the local authority have agreed to purchase 11 acres of
land on the eastern side of the town, on a small portion of which to
locate the hospital, and the remainder will be available for allotments.
The ground is to be purchased for £140 per acre, not too high a price
for the locality provided it proves suitable for the purpose. No doubt
by far the best site for allotments on the north side of the town,
where some 5000 of the working class reside, is the open or Lammas
land on the Dysart estate, and which is at present let for six months of
the year only for market garden crops. This, if it eould be secured,
would enable some 200 good allotment to be provided easily. — A. D.

AGAYE LEOPOLD II.

The Agave shown in the illustration (fig. 49) is one of the best of its
class in cultivation, and when exhibited by the raiser, W. B. Kellock,
Esq., of Stamford Hill, at the recent Agricultural Hall Show, the Floral
Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society awarded a first-class
certificate for it. As before remarked in this Journal, the plant has an
interesting history. It is the result of a cross between A. Schidigera
princeps and A. filifera, the latter being the pollen parent. The plant
from which the seed was obtained was exhibited by Mr. Kellock about
fifteen years ago at South Kensington, and was much admired by Her
Majesty the Queen whilst on a visit to the gardens of the R.H.S. at that

October 12, 1898. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

835

time. The Agave depicted likewise gained the admiration of the King
of the Belgians a short time ago, hence its designation, the plant having
been named by permission of Leopold II. It is an effective Agave, the
spines being narrow, and from 18 inches to 2 feet in length, covered
with white woolly filaments.

NATURE’S HELPS TO GARDENERS.

Every one heartily in love with the world of flowers, especially when
he or she takes up with one or more of them as pets to be thought over,
and cared for by day and often dreamt of at night, frequently suffers
from heartache. I was lately in the greenhouse of a lady who has only
the last year or two acquired this love, and as I admired the glories of
her Begonias, Tuberoses, Carnations, and Tomatoes, for which she took
first prize at our local show, I congratulated her warmly. “ Yes,” said
she, “ but you cannot think how much time it takes, for I do it almost all

Earwigs in confinement will eat the smaller fry, but I fear that in
the open they care far more for the petals of our flowers, and must be
counted as decided enemies. They are very difficult to catch at their
evil deeds ; they prefer the dark like other evil doers, and by the light
of a candle at night in the greenhouse and a pair of forceps the rascals
may be caught ; but it needs a sharp eye and quick and steady hand, or
the enemy will soon hide himself amongst the petals and be no more
seen. There are many other ways of trapping these gentry — dry Bean
stalks, a bit of Apple rind in a long piece of paper folded up several
times laid on the pot, or some dry moss are all useful helps. Wood-
lice, too, prefer darkness, and whilst in search of earwigs may often be
found creeping from their haunts.

But perhaps there is no insect so troublesome to the gardener as the
aphis ; diminutive it may be, but its wonderful powers of reproduction
make up for its lack of size. I have heard some persons declare that
they only attack unhealthy plants ; that is not at all my idea. Roses
with splendid succulent shoots, Liliums in robust growth, Chrysan-

J

Fig. 49.— agave LEOPOLD II.

myself.” My reply was, “ Indeed I can ; I see the time or its results there,
and, it is a great pleasure to look at them.” This she thoroughly allowed.
From the greenhouse 1 went to the Chrysanthemums looking fairly
well. She enlarged on the horrors of green fly and the other trials to
which the temper of a gardener often falls a prey, and I then tried to
initiate her into some of the helps that Nature, or rather the beneficent
Creator, has provided as helps to us.

It seems to me that all gardeners should be taught to distinguish in
the insect world their helpers from their foes. Probably the natural
inclination of every gardener is to apply finger and thumb with a more
or less forcible pressure to every insect that he sees travelling over his
pets. It needs a closer application and a greater expenditure of time
than a gardener when in full work has at his command to watch the habits
of some insects, and there is little doubt that many a friend is sacrificed
which would have done him service if he had left it alone. Many
years ago, I recollect reading somewhere that the large yellow slug fed
on smaller specimens of the slug tribe, and that therefore he might be
looked upon as a friend. I believe then that slugs may feed on their
fallen relatives, but only after these are dead If this be the case
cannot see that they are any helps to those who love their flowers.

themums in full vigour, and almost every plant may be rapidly
covered by them and soon be made to look sickly if these pests are left
to feast on it. Of course they are not lovers of the weed, but tobacco
smoking is not always so harmless as it is supposed to be, and I have
never known it succeed in killing aphides inside the sheath of a Lilium
for instance, and whilst our Chrysanthemums are out of doors they are
continually pestered by these little wretches in the heart of the shoots,
where it is most difficult to dislodge them without injury to the plant.

It seems to me, then, that our aids in Nature against these little
pests should be known to every gardener. There are several that for
safety and certainty in executing their work are not to be equalled by
any human fingers, and yet I feel that nine out of every ten gardeners,
would kill most of them the moment they saw them. Of these I will
write later ; but ere I close, having never been able to say a good word
for the sparrow, let me now give him absolution thus far. I think the
last two or three years I have noticed that at times he takes an aphis
meal — at least, I have seen him pitch on a Rose shoot covered with
green fly and appear to be enjoying a feast, and this, if it be true, is
about the only honest labour for our good that I have ever seen him.
accomplish. — Y. B. A. Z.

836

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 12, 1803.

A CALL AT SAWBRIDGEWORTH.

A VISIT to the famed fruit nursery of Messrs, T. Rivers & Son is at
all times interesting, but at none more so than in the autumn. At this
period the trees are laden vvith luscious fruit until the end of September,
and once seen the sight is not readily forgotten. October finds the bulk
of the crops gathered and safely housed, but the trees, although deprived
of their rich appearance, are by no means devoid of interest from a
planter’s point of view. Now is the time when persons contemplating
planting should make their selections, and a visit to the nursery in
question, amongst others, could be made with advantage. This is the
conclusion the writer came to whilst taking a hasty run through the
extensive grounds devoted to fruit growing. Although harassing in
many respects, the past summer has been a grand one for fruit taken as
a whole, and the trees are now in prime condition, auguring well for the
future. For many years trees of various kinds have been raised in
immense numbers at Sawbridgeworth, and it would appear that the
impetus given to fruit cultivation throughout the country is being felt
there. The demand for trees suitable for planting orchards is now
enormous, but fortunately the supply has grown correspondingly. In
the neighbourhood referred to the soil, being a deep loam full of stamina,
is peculiarly adapted for the production of good trees, and as the
plantations are situated on sunny slopes the wood becomes well ripened,
which, as all fruit growers know, is of the greatest importance.

Apples and Peaks.

All kinds of fruit trees are grown at Sawbridgeworth, upwards of
160 acres of land being devoted to this purpose. Apples and Pears, as
may be expected, come in for their share of attention, these being well
represented. Of the former no less than nearly 600 varieties are
grown, but Mr. T. P. Rivers is of the opinion that fifty of these would
be sufficient, and in many cases the list might be further condensed.
Still there are persons who will grow both Apples and Pears of a
common character, and so long as a demand exists for such varieties the
supply will be furnished. Notwithstanding, as before remarked, Mr.
Rivers considers that too many varieties are planted, and when such is
done the results are not always of a satisfactory nature. “Upright
growing trees of choice reliable sorts should be planted,” observed our
guide, and to illustrate his remark he pointed out a plantation of
Cox’s Orange Pippin. The trees in this case are planted in rows 12 feet
asunder and 6 feet apart in the rows, but will eventually be thinned
out to double that distance. All are half-standards, with well trained
heads, and the ground beneath is planted with Strawberries. An orchard
of this kind cannot be other than profitable, and it is worthy of
imitation. The foregoing is but a case in point, for many similar instances
are to be seen bere. In addition to these, however, there are acres of
young trees, two, three, and four years old, all now in excellent con¬
dition for planting. The Apples are represented by bushes, pyramids,
and standards, on the Nonesuch, Paradise, and Crab stocks, and all are
characterised by remarkably fine growth. The young shoots are long,
and in many cases as thick as a man’s finger, and, as may be expected
after a prolonged period of sunshine, have ripened wonderfully well.
They are, moreover, bristling with fruit buds in a manner that one does
not always find. Bismarck is largely grown, and so are Bramley’s
Seedling, Duchess of Oldenburg, Cox’s Pomona, Betty Geeson, Lane’s
Prince Albert, Blenheim Orange, Nancy Jackson, King of the Tomkins
County, and many other choice varieties. Enormous brightly coloured
samples of the above mentioned Apples were displayed in the fruit
room, but Mr. Rivers is not a believer in huge Apples. Firm, well
coloured, medium-sized fruits are preferred by the Sawbridgeworth
principal.

What has been said in regard to Apples applies with equal force to
Pears. Of these there are plenty to select from, and intending planters
will find trained trees for walls and espaliers as abundant as cordon?,
and bushes as numerous as pyramids. These are worked on the Quince
and Pear stock, and in certain cases are double grafted, which in some
varieties is a gieat advantage. All the select kinds are grown, and the
trees being dwarf and well trained are under control. They have, not¬
withstanding the drought, made fine growth this season, and the wood
is so well covered with fruit buds that trees transplanted now would, if
allowed, carry a good crop of fruit next season. Like the Apples, large
Pears are not appreciated here, and although some wonderfully fine
samples are grown, Mr. Rivera, for private use, pins his faith on a
seedling Bergamot of his own raising. This is rather a small Pear, sweet
and juicy, and of a delicious flavour. Conference is a new seedling Pear
that is likely to prove a valuable market variety, the tree being most
prolific. The fruit is large, flesh melting, juicy, and rich. It is doubtless
a Pear of the future.

Plums and Cherries.

Plums form a special feature, and thanks to the efforts of the Saw¬
bridgeworth firm in raising new varieties some delicious fruits are now
forthcoming. Thousands of standard, pyramid, dwarf, and trained
trees are grown in a similar manner to the other fruits, and by making
a choice selection it is possible to have ripe Plums from open-air trees
from early in J uly till October. All the leading varieties are represented,
but a large breadth of Rivers’ Early Prolific arrests attention. This is
a grand culinary variety, and one that should be found in every orchard
or garden. Although but medium in size, it is one of the heaviest
Plums in cultivation, and is a prodigious cropper. For making pre¬
serves this is a valuable fruit, and for that purpose it is being extensively
cultivated. As an early dessert Plum The Czar is very popular, and
consequently the supply is maintained according to the demand. As

is generally well known, the fruit is large, rich, and good flavoured,
usually ripening the end of July. Another valuable market Plum
raised at Sawbridgeworth is the Monarch, and anticipating a brilliant
future for this variety Mr. Rivers has grown it extensively. Trees of
various sizes, suitable for orchard and garden planting, have been pro¬
duced, and those three years from the graft have this year borne heavy
crops of fruit. It is a late variety, ripening in ordinary seasons at the
end of September, although this year the fruit was fit to gather several
weeks earlier. The fruit is very large, of excellent quality, and the
tree is an abundant bearer. Grand Duke is another splendid late Plum
that might be individualised out of the many grown here, this variety
being sometimes in prime condition as late as October.

Regarding Cherries a few words will suffice, for the firm has long
since gained a reputation for these. Visitors to the summer shows in
and around the metropolis have often been charmed with the delicious
looking fruits sent by Messrs. Rivers, and no doubt will be again.
Trained trees on the Mahaleb are a feature here, cordons also receiving
special attention. The Morello is now grafted on this stock, and has
been found useful to be grown as pyramids in gardens. Apricots are
likewise looking well, the trees being vigorous in growth, which has
become exceptionally well ripened.

Fruit Trees in Pots.

This perhaps is the most interesting phase of fruit culture, and to see
it well carried out a visit to Sawbridgeworth is desirable. Here we
find Apricots, Apples, Cherries, Pears, Plums, Peaches, Nectarines, Figs,
Oranges and other fruit trees in pots grown very extensively. Numerous
houses are devoted to their culture and apparently with great success.
Last week trees of the Apple Bijou from 2 to 3 feet high and in 8 and
9-inch pots were carrying two or three dozen fruits of excellent quality.
Other choice kinds are similarly cultivated, and the same may be said of
Pears. The latter are very fine, and it is surprising that they are not
more generally grown in pots. Trees about 4 feet in height and
bearing from one to two dozen fruits of a large size are very plentiful.
The following varieties are recommended by Mr. Rivers as being suitable
for growing in pots. — August; Jargonelle, Beurr6 Giffard and Clapp’s
Favourite ; September : Williams’ Bon Chretien, Beurr6 d’Amanlis,
Madame Treyve, Beurr6 Superfin and Souvenir du Congr^s ; October :
Louise Bonne of Jersey, Fondante d’Automne, Beurr4 Hardy, Gansel’s
Bergamot, Marie Louise, Mar^chal de Cour, Glou Morgeau and
Pitmaston Duchess ; November : Durondeau, Beurr6 Bachelier and
Beurr4 Diel ; December : Winter Nelis, Josephine de Malines and Berga-
motte d’Esperen ; January : Nouvelle Fulvie. After fruiting, the trees
are stood outdoors in sunny positions to ripen the wood properly.

Peaches and Nectarines too are exceedingly good, and the trees are now
being repotted. They vary in height from 3 to 12 feet, many of the latter
being remarkable specimens of cultural skill. Trees of this kind in suitable
size pots bear five dozen fruits of superior quality and could be induced
to carry more. They are grown in a compost of loam, decayed manure
and chalk, and during the season are top-dressed with a mixture of horse
droppings, night soil, and kiln dust. In this the roots ramify, and by the
autumn form a matted mass. Trees of a smaller size are plentiful, and
these produce one to two dozen fruits. Such trees as these might
advantageously be given a place in every garden where a suitable glass
house exists for their reception. Plums in pots are likewise given special
attention, and the same can be said of Figs and other fruits,
although the majority of the trees are now maturing their wood in the
open air.

Grape Vines and Oranges.

A brief reference must be made to the pot Vines. A close inspection
of these was not made, but it could be easily seen in passing that they
bear the impress of good cultivation. There are hundreds of well
ripened stout canes that will produce good fruit next year if properly
treated. These are for the most part under glass, but where an
abundance of ventilation is given. The orangery is an interesting
feature here, inasmuch as about fifty varieties of Oranges, Lemons, and
Citrons are grown. The trees are in pots, ready for transit, and most of
them are now carrying a good crop of fruit, which is commencing to
ripen. Generally home-grown Oranges as seen in private gardens are
not of an excellent quality, but matters are entirely different at Saw¬
bridgeworth. An opportunity of tasting a fruit convinced the writer
that, given a good variety and grown under proper conditions, Oranges
cultivated at home are superior to the majority of those imported from
abroad. The chief essentials in the successful cultivation of Oranges
are obviously moderate heat and a well ventilated house, so as to main¬
tain rather a dry atmosphere, which imparts flavour to the fruit. There
are many other features at this nursery, but pressure on our space
forbids further details. It may be mentioned that despite the extreme
drought the young grafted trees of all kinds of fruit are looking remark¬
ably well, the scions having taken well, this being partly the result of
deep and judicious cultivation, which assisted much in reserving moisture
in the soil.

Although the fruit trees above referred to are so largely grown by
Messrs. T. Rivers & Son, it must not be thought that they constitute
the whole of the Sawbridgeworth stock. Raspberries are well repre¬
sented, there being thousands of canes of such standard sorts as Hornet,
Fillbasket, Baumforth Seedling, and Lord Beaconsfield, the last named a
comparatively new variety of great excellence. The autumnal Rasp¬
berries are also extensively cultivated, the best of these being the
October Red and October Yellow, both reliable varieties. All the most
popular Strawberries are likewise grown, the young plants being strong

October 12, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

887

and vigorous. Crabs of various kinds suitable for decorative purposes
receive attention, as also do ConiferEe, evergreens, and other ornamental
shrubs. Nor are Roses forgotten, for in addition to the hundreds of plants
growing outdoors several houses are devoted to their culture. Some
remarkably fine vigorous young plants of Marechal Niel are noticeable,
and these would under ordinary circumstances produce an abundance
of bloom next spring. The stems are thick, upwards of 12 feet in
length, and well ripened. — C.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

October 10th,

Contrary to general expectation, there was a fine display at the
Drill Hall, Westminster, on this occasion, fruit being particularly good.
Orchids were only moderately represented, the same applying to the
other floral exhibits.

Fruit Committee. — Present : Phillip Crowley, Esq. (in the chair) ;
Messrs. J. Lee, H. Pearson, T. Francis Rivers, J. Cheal, T. J. Saltmarsh,
P. C. M. Veitch, G. Bunyard, Alex. Dean, Harrison Weir, J. A. Laing,
W. Bates, G. Mills, Chas. Ross, G. H. Sage, Jas. Hudson, Geo. Wythes,
H. Balderson, F. Q. Lane, G. Norman, A. Moss, the Rev. W. Wilks, and
Dr. Hogg.

Messrs. J, Veitch & Sons, Chelsea, sent a splendid collection of
Apples and Pears, comprising upwards of 200 dishes. The Apples
were large and handsome, as well as being richly coloured. Lane’s
Prince Albert, Watson’s Dumpling, Lord Derby, Mere de Menage,
Beauty of Stoke, Mrs. Barron, Sandringham, and Bismarck were among
the best. The Pears were also fine for having been grown on pyramid
trees, especially the new variety Beurre, Tonqxieray, a splendid hardy
Pear, in season during October, for which a first-class certificate was
awarded. A gold Knightian medal was recommended. Messrs. G.
Bunyard & Co., Maidstone, also sent a large collection of Apples and
Pears, about 160 dishes of fruit being staged. The Apples in this contri¬
bution were very richly coloured. Noticeable amongst others were
Fearn’s Pippin, Woodstock Pippin, Cellini, Wealthy, King of Tompkins
County, Worcester Pearmain, Mabbott’s Pearmain, Gascoyne’s Scarlet
Seedling, Cobham, and Pearson’s Plate. The best of the Pears comprised
Marie Louise, Beurrd Bachelier, General Todtleben, Beurrd Diel, Grosse
Calabasse, Pitmaston Duchess, and Beurr^ Bose. A gold Knightian
medal was recommended.

P. Saillard, Esq., Buchan Hill, Crawley (gardener, Mr, John Martin),
sent a fine collection of Apples and Pears, and a silver Knightian medal
was recommended. The best of the Apples were Warner’s King,
Peasgood’s Nonesuch,i Cox’s Pomona, and Fearn’s Pippin. The Pears
also were exceedingly good. Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Crawley, sent ten
varieties of Pears and a dish of the recently introduced Atalanta Apple.
Among the Pears were Princess, Duchesse de Nemours, Duchesse de
Mouchy, Kieffer’s Seedling, Magnate, Bon Vicar, Belle William, Beurre
Alexander Lucas, and Belle de Bruxelles. A dish of Crawley Prize-
taker Potato was also shown by the same firm.

Messrs. H. Lane & Son, The Nurseries, Berkhampstead, had a dish of
splendid Lane’s Prince Albert Apple. Major Hambling, Dunstable,
sent two dishes of an Apple named Hamhling's Seedling, This is a
large Apple, greenish-yellow skin, and a first class certificate was
awarded. Mr. Sidney Ford, Cowfold, Horsham, Sussex, sent three
dishes of Marie Louise Pears, and Mr. E, Molyneux, Swanmore Park,
Bishop’s Waltham, had some fineBramley’s Seedling Apples, the produce
of maiden trees planted in 1891. A vote of thanks was accorded for this
exhibit. Messrs. Laxton Brothers, Bedford, sent a dish of Apple
Mr. Hooper, a well coloured variety, C. C. Tudway, Esq., Wells,
Somerset, staged twelve Doyenn6 du Comice Pears, the total weight
being 13 lbs, A bronze Banksian medal was recommended. Mr. J.
Lane, Palgrove, Diss, sent a seedling Apple, but no award was made. The
same exhibitor had two dishes of Grosse Calabasse Pears, and a vote of
thanks was accorded. A. W. Druce, Esq., Upper Gatton, Merstham
(gardener, Mr. W. Mancey), sent two dishes of very large Pitmaston
Duchess Pears, for which a bronze Banksia,n medal was recommended.
It was stated that twenty-seven fruits, weighing 38 lbs. 2 ozs., were
taken from one cordon tree. Mr. J. Masterson, Weeston House Gardens,
Shipston-on-Stour, sent two dishes of Pears (cultural commendation).
A grand Smooth Cayenne Pine, weighing 9 lbs., was exhibited by
Mr. O. Thomas, Royal Gardens, Windsor. A cultural commendation
was awarded. A similar honour went to Mr. S. Mortimer, Swiss
Nursery, Farnham, for a box of Jones’ Perfection Tomatoes.

A magnificent collection of Apples and Pears was shown by Messrs.
J. Laing & Son, Forest Hill, prominent amongst which were Apples
King of the Pippins, Royal Russet, Cox’s Orange Pippin, Beauty of
Kent, Alfriston, Golden Reinette, Grenadier, Hollandbury, and Blenheim
Orange, all well coloured. Noticeable amongst the Pears were Souvenir
du Congrfes, Beurr^ Clairgeau, Glou Mor9eau, Duchesse d’AngoulSme,
and Marechal de Cour (silver Knightian medal). Mr. W. Crump,
Madresfield Court Gardens, sent an admirable collection of Pears,
amongst which were some grand examples, notably Pitmaston Duchess,
Beurr^ Diel, Marie Louise, Doyenn^ du Comice, Beurr^ Bose, Van Mons
Leon Leclerc, and Beurr6 Capiaumont (silver Knightian medal). Mr.
Owen Thomas, Royal Gardens, Windsor, arranged a creditable collec¬
tion of Pears, which was comprised of sixty dishes of the leading
varieties (silver Banksian medal). Mr. John Watkins, Withington,
Hereford, staged a collection of Apples and Pears, cider varieties being
very prominent amongst the Apples. A silver Knightian medal was
recommended. Mr. Jas. Day, Galloway House, Wigtonshire, was

recommended a bronze Banksian medal for a collection of Pears, which
consisted of some excellent fruits. Mr. J. Miller, gardener , to Lord
Foley, Esher, staged a Gourd weighing 151 lbs., for which he was
awarded a cultural commendation.

In addition to the Potatoes mentioned on page 332, first-class
certificates were awarded for the following varieties : — Jeanie Beans,
shown by Messrs. Carter & Co., High Holborn ; Conference, Mr. Dean,
Ealing ; Early Regent, Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea ; Nelly
Langley, Mr. H. Fletcher, Annerley ; Radoliffe Kidney, Mr. Jelley.
Awards of merit went to Onions— Yellow Globe, Southport
Red Globe, and BeverilVs Cocoanut, Mr. H. Deverill, Banbury ; Globe
Madeira, Italian Tripoli, and Prizetaher, Messrs. Vilmurin, Andrieux
and Co., Paris.

Floral Committee.— Present : W. Marshall, Esq. (in the chair) ;
Messrs. Owen Thomas, Robert Owen, H. Herbst, R. Dean, G. Stevens,
H. B. May, C. J. Salter, J, Jennings, R. B. Lowe, Chas. E. Pearson, J. D.
Pawle, W. Watson, Henry Cannell, Chas. E, Shea, T. Baines, Chas.
Jeffries, J. T. Bennett- Poe, Geo. Gordon, Edward Mawley, and the Rev,
H. H. D’Ombrain.

Mr. S. Mortimer, nurseryman, Rowledge, Farnham, arranged a
group of Show and Fancy Dahlias, amongst which were some excellent
blooms (bronze Banksian medal), and also three boxes of Stephanotis
floribunda, the flowers being of much merit. Mr. A. H. Rickwood,
gardener to Dowager Lady Freake, Fulwell Park, Twickenham, staged
a fine group of seedling Begonias. The blooms being arranged with Fern
and Asparagus fronds produced a fine effect. A highly creditable
collection of Chrysanthemums, prominent amongst which were La
Cherine, Coronet, Duchess of York, Cesara Costa, and Comte de
Germiny were exhibited by Mr. Wells, Earlswood. Mr. T. S. Ware,
Hale Farm Nurseries, Tottenham, staged a basket of Aster grandi-
flora, the plants in which were profusely flowered. The same
exhibitor also had a small collection of Dahlias and Nerines.

Mr. Ware received a first class certificate for Nerine elegans alba, and

an award of merit for Pompon Dahlia Emily Hopper, and single

Dahlia Ettie Swan, for descriptions of which see below. Messrs.

Pitcher & Manda, United States Nurseries, Hextable, put up some
magnificent Chrysanthemums. Noticeable in this exhibit were Mrs.
F. L. Ames, Bouquet des Dames, Wm. Seward, Golden Wreath, and many
promising seedlings. A group of Adiantums was staged by Mr. H. B.
May, Dysons Lane Nurseries, Upper Edmonton. The plants were clean
and well grown, and A. farleyense, A. formosum, A. tetraphyllum
acuminatum, A. Lathomi, and A. peruvianum were amongst the best
(silver gilt Flora medal).

Mr. Robert Owen, Maidenhead, showed some very fine Chrysanthemum
blooms. Rose Wynne, Mrs. P. Blair, and Edith Owen were very pro¬
minent. A box of seedling Begonias was staged by G. A. Farini, Esq.,
Dartmouth Lodge, Forest Hill, S.E. From the Royal Gardens, Kew,
came some fine seedling Streptocarpus, and also Tecoma Smithi,
Kniphofia modesta, Ptychoraphia angusta (first-class certificate),
Bolanum Wendlandi (first-class certificate), Disa Premier (first-class
certificate), Bomarea patacsensis (first-class certificate), Messrs. Jas.
Veitch & Sons staged beautiful hybrid Rhododendrons of the Javaaico-
jasminoides section, amongst the best of which were luceo-roseum,
Maiden’s Blush, amabile, and Lord Wolseley. A box of hybrid Strepto-
carpus were also staged, and also a basket of Caryopteris mastacanthus.
The same firm also showed plants of Carnation Mdlle. Therese Franco,
for which they were accorded an award of merit (see below), and also a
basket of Amasonia punicea, which, arranged with Pteris Victoria, pro¬
duced a very striking effect. Messrs. Perkins & Sons, Coventry, received
an award of merit (see below) for Cactus Dahlia Purple Prince. Mr.
H. J. Jones, Ryecroft Nurseries, Lewisham, showed a basket of Pompon
Dahlia Ryecroft Gem. Mr. R. Sanders, gardener to Alfred de Roth¬
schild, Esq., Halton, Tring, exhibited nine baskets of fibrous-rooted
Begonias, amongst which B, semperfiorens atropurpurea, B. s. La France,
B. Afterglow, and B. floribunda rosea were particularly noticeable
(silver Flora medal), Messrs. Henry Cannell & Sons, Swanley, showed
Chrysanthemums in excellent condition, also some Dahlias, amongst
which were Old Gold, to which an award of merit was accorded (see
below). Messrs. Cannell also arranged a box of their celebrated Zonal
Pelargoniums, amongst which were Madame de Bondeville, Etoile de
Lyon, Souvenir de Mirande, Jacques Callot, M. Duterail, and a charming
seedling (bronze medal).

Messrs. R. Veitch & Son, Exeter, showed Plumbago Larpentm,
Zauschneria californica. Pink Ernest Ladhams, and Colutea arborescens
purpurea. Cactus Dahlia George Phippen was shown by Mr. J. Phippen,
Reading ; and Dahlia Miss Arnold by Mr. J. Arnold, Stoke, Devonport.
Mr. A. Waterer, Woking, sent foliage of Quercus americana splendens
(first-class certificate, see below). Messrs. G. Bunyard & Co. had a
collection of ornamental foliage (bronze medal).

In the class for twelve bunches of hardy herbaceous flowers, Mr, G. H.
Sage, The Gardens, Ham House, Richmond, was deservedly awarded the
first prize. The exhibit was composed of Aster multiflorus, A. sibericus.
Anemone japonica alba, Erigeron speciosum, and Solidago rigidus
amongst others. Miss Debenham, St. Peters, St. Albans, was placed
second with a fair collection.

Orchid Committee. — Present : H. J. Veitch, Esq. (in the chair) ;
Messrs O’Brien, De B. Crawshay, H. M. Pollett, Thomas Statter,
H. Ballantine, E. Hill, H. Williams, W. H. White, T. B. Haywood, and
S. Courtauld.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Clapton, sent a small group of Orchids
comprising some choice species and varieties. Amongst others Vanda

888

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 12, 1893.

Kitnballiana delicata, Cattleya maxima, Cypripedium raiioium super¬
bum. Some plants of Lilium nepalense made a good background
(silver Banksian medal). A J. Hollington, Esq , Forty Hill, Enfield,
sent a plant each of Cattleya Davisi, Cypripedium Smithi, and C.
Sichardsoni. A very fine form ot Odontoglossum grande was shown by
J. Foster Alcock, Esq., Northchurch, Berkhamstead, Herts, who also had
a good form of Cattleya labiata. Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Royal
Exotic Nursery, Chelsea, showed Cattleya X Chloris (first-class certifi¬
cate) ; Cypripedium x Arthurianum pulchellum and Cattleya X
Pherdona (award of merit). A hybrid between C. maxima and C.
intermedia. Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, contribute I a small
group of Cattleyas and Cypripediums, also plants of Pescatorea
Klabrochorum and Phalsenopsis Lowi (silver Banksian medal). Sir
Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford, Dorking, sent a plant of Cypripedium
conco-Lawre having a neatly formed flower with two lips, also
Dendrobinum Mir lellianum. A basket of the bright flowered Habenaria
militaris came from the same source (silver Flora medal). Messrs.
B. S. Williams & Son, Upper Holloway, had a small group tastefully
arranged with Ferns (silver Banksian medal).

The L’Horticulture Internationale, Brussels, sent some choice species.
Amongst these were Cattleya Warsqueana fascinator (award of merit)
Cypripedium Spicerio Lowianum (award of merit), Cattleya Eldorado
Oweni, Laelia elegans Lucani (award of merit), and a grand form of
Cypripedium Rothschildianum. A first-class certificate was also awarded
for Cattleya Eldorado Lindeni. The same firm also staged a fine plant
of Haemanthus Lindeni (first-class certificate), and Anthurium Wam-
beckianum, a white form (silver Flora medal). S. G. Lutwyche, Esq.,
Eden Park, Beckenham, staged a collection of Cypripediums, Odonto-
glossums, and a fine plant of Zygope'alum Mack-iyi amongst other
Orchids (bronze medal). Messrs. W. L. Lewis & Co.. Southgate, sent a
plant of Habenaria cinnabarina, for which a botanical certificate was
awarded. Major-General Berkeley, Bitterne, secured an award of merit
for a plant of Odontoglossum Uro-Skinneri album.

Certificates and Awards op Merit.

Anthurium Wambechianum (L’Horticulture Internationale). — A
strong growing form, with a pure white spathe (first-class certificate).

Bomarea lyatacoensis (Kew Gardens). — A beautiful species, with
orange red flowers (first-class certificate).

Cattleya Chlons (J. Veitch & Sons). — This is a splendid hybrid,
being the result of a cross between C. maxima and C. Bowringiana.
The sepals and petals are dark mauve, and very distinct. The lip
is large, heavily suffused with rich purplish crimson (first-class cer¬
tificate).

Cattleya Eldorado Lindeni (L’Horticulture Internationale, Brussels).
— This is a good form with medium sized flowers. Sepals and petals
rosy mauve, lip fringed deep purplish crimson, throat orange yellow
(first-class certificate).

Cattleya Pheidince (J. Veitch & Sons). — This is a hybrid, being the
result of a cross between C. maxima and C. intermedia. The sepals and
petals are white faintly tinged with pink. The lip is exceedingly pretty,
being white, veined crimson and rich yellow in the throat (award of
merit).

Cattleya War seq^uana fascinator (L’Horticulture Internationale). — A
magnificent form that attracted much attention. The sepals and petals
are large, and of a rosy mauve shade, the lip being richly coloured with
a white margin (award of merit).

Carnation Mary Godfrey (W. J. Godfrey). — A pure white flower
with fringed petals. Clove-scented (award of merit).

Carnation Reginald Godfrey (VV. J. Godfrey). — A delicate pink
Clove-scented variety, good form, fringed petals (award of merit).

Carnation Mdlle. TMrese Franco (J. Veitch & Sons). — A fine
variety, with large salmon-pink blooms, faintly Clove-scented (award of
merit).

Chrysanthemum Mrs. P. Blair (R. Owen). — An incurved Japanese,
silvery pink, suffused carmine (award of merit).

Cypripedium Spicerio Lowianum (L’Horticulture Internationale). —
A beautiful Cypripedium. The petals are narrow and twisted, green
heavily spotted with chocolate, bronzy tips. The dorsal sepal is white,
with a green base, tinged crimson, the lips being a dull green (award of
merit).

Dahlia Emily Hopper (T. S. Ware). — A Pompon yellow variety of
good forth (award of merit).

Dahlia Ettie Swan (T. S. Ware). — A single variety, with terra cotta
coloured flowers, the lower part of the petals being red (award of merit).

Dahlia Purple Prince (Perkins & Sons). — A rich purplish magenta
Cactus variety (award of merit).

Dahlia Miss Arnold (J. Arnold). — A decorative variety, rosy pink
flaked with purple in the centre (award of merit).

Dahlia Old Gold (H. Canned & Sons). —A beautiful Cactus variety
of a shade that is indicated by the name (award of merit).

Disa Premier (Kew Gardens). — This is a hybrid, the result of a cross
between D. Veitchi and D. tripetaloides. The plant shown had one
spike which bore six flowers. The latter are very attractive, being deep
Tose pink (first-class certificate).

Hcemanthxhs Lindeni (L’Horticulture Internationale). — The plant
exhibited bore three large spikes of flowers of a salmon pink colour
(first-class certificate).

Lwlia elegans Luciana (L’Horticulture Internationale). — The plant
of this that was exhibited had one spike which bore six flowers. The
sepals and petals are greenish white, tinged with rose. The lip is dull
white, margined rich purple crimson (award of merit).

Nerine eiegans alba (T. S. Ware). — This is a pure white variety.
The plaa\. shown was about 9 inches high, and bore one spike of flowers
(first-class certificate). '

Odontoglossum tfro-Skinneri alba (Major-General Berkeley). — A
pretty variety, with greenish yellow sepals and petals, and a pure white
lip (award of merit).

Ptychoraphis angusta (Kew Gardens). — A graceful Palm with finely
cut foliasje (first-class certificate).

Solanum Wendlayidi (Kew Gardens). — A handsome plant, with large
pale blue flowers (first-class certificate).

Tecoma Smithi (Kew Gardens) — This is a hybrid from T. capensis
aud T. velutina. Three plants were shown, and they bore rich yellow
flowers tinged with brownish red (first-class certificate).

Qnercus americana splendens (A. Wa»erer). — A variety with large
richly coloured foliage (first-class certificate).

At the afternoon meeting Mr. W. Crump, Madresfield Court Gardens,
Malvern, read an essay on “ Pears.” Being an experienced grower
Mr. Crump dealt with his subject in a practical and interesting manner,
and was attentively listened to by an appreciative audience.

Chrysanthemums at Battersea Park.

The Exhibition of Chrysanthemums by the London County Council
will be open to the public in the Frame Ground of this park on
Saturday, 14th October.

A Chrysanthemum Book.

We understand that Mr. John Newton of Temple Gardens intends to
bring out the nineteenth edition of his work on the Chrysanthemum,
the first edition ot which appeared in 1871.

Hiuhoate and District Chrysanthemum Society.

We have received the annual report of this Society, whose Exhibition
this year will be held at the Northfield Hall, Highgate, on November
2nd and 3rd. The report states that the £10 challens^e cup last
November was won by Mr. Rowbottom, gardener to H. R. Williams, Esq.;
he having won it twice in succession, it now becomes his own property.
Some moderate prizes are offered, and there should be a good display
at the Exhibition. Mr. E. Vince, Highgate Cemetery, is the Secretary.

An East End Chrysanthemum Show.

The East London Amateur Chrysanthemum and Floricultural
Society will, we are informed, hold their third annual Exhibition on
November 6th, 7th, and 8th in the Queen’s Hall and Winter Garden
ot the People’s Palace, Mile End Road, E. The rates of admission to
the Show will be fixed at such a price as to allow the poorest inhabitants
of that thickly populated locality to enjoy the benefits of a bright
display of flowers. The Secretary is Mr. W. F. Clarke, 23, Parmiter
Street, Cambridge Heath, N.E.

Sheffield Chrysanthemum Society.

The annual Show of the above Society will be held in the Corn
Exchange, Sheffield, on November 17Dh and 18th. A comprehensive
schedule has been prepared, and liberal prizes are offered, the leading
classes in the cut flower section being for twenty-four incurved blooms,
and a similar number of Japanese, in not less than eighteen varieties in
each case. The prizes in both classes are £8, £5, £3, and £2, which
should bring a good competition. According to the annual report, the
Society, financially, is in a strong position. Mr. W. Houseley,
177, Cemetery Road, is the Secretary.

Chrysanthemums in Ireland.

As show days loom in the near distance with all their attendant
hopes and fears, it is somewhat disappointing to find so few recording
their experience of an exceptional season in this department. I would
venture to supplement the short notes previously sent of prospects of
Chrysanthemums this side of the Channel, with one brief note of
thanksgiving that “ All are safely gathered in ere the winter storms
begin.” There is another side of the question on which I could wish an
abler pen than mine to touch, viz., the valuable recent article on the
bud mite (page 291). It is a matter of vital importance to know our
enemies and how to fight them, and I take on myself to return thanks of
growers generally, and particularly from — E. K., Dublin.

Hull And East Riding Chrysanthemum Society.

Mr. Edw. Harland, one of the Honorary Secretaries of this
important provincial Society, favours us with the illustration (fig. 50)
of the “ Hull cups,” of which it will be admitted there is an imposing
display.

The challenge vase (central figure on pedestal), value 20 guineas, is
presented by James Reckitt, Esq., in the 100 square feet group class.

The upright silver cups on each side of the central vase, value £5

October 12. 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

839

each, are offered for twenty-four incurved blooms, and twenty-four
Japanese, in separate classes, a money prize of £10 to the winner

in each case. Are not these the best prizes of the year for twenty-four
blooms 1

The two end silver cups on pedestals, value £2, are given by Messrs.
E. P. Dixon & Son for twelve blooms incurved, and twelve blooms
Japanese, respectively, in addition to the money prize. The class is
confined to growers twenty miles round Hull. The two silver cups on
the table, value £2 each, are given by the Society for twelve incurved
blooms, and twelve Japanese blooms in the amateurs’ class.

The challenge plate, in a case, value £5 Ss., is for the dessert table
decorations, ladies’ class.

I t The encouragement thus afforded by the Hull Society and its
generous friend ought to insure a high class and spirited competition.
The illustration is reproduced from a photograph by Messrs. Kirk & Co.,
Limited, Hull, Leeds, and Liverpool. The exhibition will be held on
November 15th and 16th.

National Chrysanthemum Society.

On Monday evening last, the 9th inst., a meeting of the General
Committee of this Society was held at Anderton’s Hotel, when Mr. R.

ultimately be placed before the schedule sub-committee. The principal
speakers were Mr. Beavan, Mr. Rowbottom, Mr. Gibson, Mr. Geo.
Srevens, Mr. G. Gordon, Mr. Crane, Mr. Harman Payne, Mr. Witty,
Mr. Wynne, and one or two representatives of affiliated Societies. Mr.
Pearson replied and received a vote of thanks for his paper, which it is
intended shall be ultimately printed in the schedule for the coming
year, together with the remarks of those who took part in the discussion.

SOFT VERSUS HARD COLD WATER FOR PLANTS.

I HAVE been deeply interested in the correspondence which has been
carried on for several weeks in the Journal under the above title. But
what is meant by the words, “hard water?” I have read every word
which has appeared in the Journal, but fail to find a definition of the
word “ hard.” If I may be allowed to give my opinion on what I take
to be the meaning generally understood by gardeners of “ hard water,”
I should say it is nothing more or less than water which contains a large
per-centage of lime.

Your correspondent “ J. B. R.” (pages 239 and 286) has made
mention, to serve as illustrations, of the market growers, but I cannot

Fig. 50.— hull AND EAST RIDING CHRYSANTHEMUM SOCIETY’S CUPS.

Ballantine took the chair. The minutes of the previous meeting having
been confirmed, and various letters read resulting from new nomina¬
tions and elec' ions, the Secretary reported that prize money to the
amount of £17 178. 6d. was awarded at the recent September Show, of
which £3 was contributed by Messrs. Sutton as special prizes for
vegetables. There were also three medals awarded to exhibitors on that
occasion. A rough financial statement was submitted, showing the
receipt of £201 Is. lOd., a much'larger sum than was received last year
up to the same date. The Secretary also announced that since the
month of February last ninety new members had been elected and eight
societies affiliated. A further addition was then made to the list by the
nomination and election of eighteen new members and Fellows. The
reserve fund now amounts to nearly £40. and it was hoped the fund
would be largely increased by the close of the year.

The chief interest of the meeting was the reading by Mr. C. E.
Pearson of Chilwell of a paper entitled “ How to Improve our Chrys¬
anthemum Shows,” which was listened to with very great interest
and attention. Mr. Pearson dealt with the whole subject, from the
staging of the cut blooms in long monotonous lines upon the show
board, and instanced the improved American method of setting
up the blooms in vases with long stems, to the formal method of
arranging the groups, and the questionable utility of the rigidly trained
specimens.

An interesting discussion thereupon ensued, in which a large number
of members took part. Many of the remarks were favoura le to
Mr. Pearson’s suggestions, and the subjects upon which he touched will I

see how this has strengthened his argument, unless he can also prove
that the water these growers use contains a large per-centage of lime ;
because, in my opinion, it is the lime that does the mischief, or at least
the greater part of it, and not the low temperature. “ J. B. R.” must
bear in mind that the lime, where it is contained in water to the extent
of 4 or 5 per cent., as is the case in the neighbourhood from where I
write, has a very injurious effect on plants when used in a cold raw
state. Why ? Because it, so to speak, burns the small hair-like roots
or spongioles, hence the action of chill on them. Your correspondent
has asked why it is that the market growers who have to depend on
water drawn directly from the companies’ mains succeed in growing
such fine plants if cold hard water is “ slow poison.” I think that
most of the water which is used in London and neighbourhood is drawn
from the Thames and New River. This being so, if “ J. B. R.” will
analyse it, he will probably find that it contains very little lime indeed ;
moreover, it cannot be said that it is cold to the extent of chilling the
roots of plants after being exposed to the sun and air so long, even if it
is confined, and undergoes the various processes to which it is subjected.
At any rate, 1 venture to say that the difference in temperature between
the London water, which has to be pumped up from a depth of over
200 feet, and that of the town from whence I write, is very considerable.
Herein, then, I think, lies the whole question at issue between your
several correspondents.

Would it not be useful as well as interesting if each of those gentle¬
men who have taken part in this question of hard and soft water would
send to the Journal office a statement as to the depth from which the

840

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 12, 1893.

water they have to use is drawn, its temperature, and the amount of
lime it contains ? I shall be pleased to do so, and I cannot but think
that this would help to convince the readers of this paper that it is not
the low temperature merely, but the combination of that and lime. I
am led to this conclusion from the fact that the water I have for using
in the kitchen garden is drawn from a lake fully exposed to the air and
sun, but which contains very little lime. Rhododendrons, Azaleas,
Heaths, Kalmias, and similar plants flourish when watered with it
and no other water while in the garden ; but immediately they are re¬
moved to the conservatory, where the water is drawn from the com¬
panies’ mains, these plants very quickly turn a yellow sickly colour.
Frequently they have to be shaken out of the old soil and repotted
before they can be restored to their former health.

The water from the pond is surface water, as there are no natural
springs to feed it, and in the winter, while many hundreds of people are
skating on it (for it is some 9 acres in extent), it is used in its cold
state ; yet the plants flourish. Does not this point to the absence of
lime, and substantiate what I have suggested above 1 I am speaking of
stove and greenhouse plants, but the same applies to Chrysanthemums
and other plants outside. My neighbours have been complaining this
summer about the pale yellow colour of their Chrysanthemums ; all of
them attribute it to being compelled to use the water from the mains
after exhausting their store of soft rain water. — T. A.

Your correspondent Mr. Dunn (page 317) is certainly to be con¬
gratulated on the ingenious manner in which he conducts his case in
this discussion, but I fear his ingenuity will avail him very little. In
his first communication he modestly sweeps the entire field of practical
horticulturists out of existence by declaring in bold tones — any person
who watered his plants with water from the tap or pump were verily
killing them ; again, that it was quite impossible to keep plants clear of
insect pests by the use of the “ obnoxious drug ; ” finally winding up
his remarks by challenging anybody to prove by practical demonstra¬
tion that his ideas were other than correct.

Judging from his last communication he has obviously been reduced
to his last shot, and that a harmless one. Mr. Dunn has evidently been
hunting through his library for instances bearing on the point, and
comes forward with a few brief sentences, selected most judiciously
from the works of three well-known men, but unfortunately they do not
assist him in the least degree, as neither of those authors would venture
to make such a sweeping assertion as your correspondent has done.

When I look round me and see the splendid results achieved by
practical men in every branch of gardening, who use water such as I
have described for eight months in the year, I require no further proofs,
from authorities great or small. When I can see better produce grown
by the advocates of soft water, then, and only then, shall I be ready to
change my line of front. This question is one of the small number of
“ old-fashioned ideas ” dying a hard death in the ranks of the garden¬
ing community.

It would be interesting to know how many gardeners have had to
rely on tap or well water throughout the past summer, and equally
valuable to know how their plants are looking in consequence. Mr.
Molyneux has evidently been using it with good results, like hundreds
of other growers. Where a man’s living depends on the value of the
crop he produces he is bound to look about him pretty smartly in these
days for the means of achieving the best results. As a body the
market-growing community produce as good crops with tap or well
water as, I think, Mr. Dunn has seen. In his zeal to make a showy case
for his hobby he has allowed himself to be carried past the post of
modern teaching and practice. — J. B . R.

ON AN EXPERIMENT WITH SHANKING GRAPES.

My communication (page 238) coupled with the Editor’s footnote
appended thereto, has had precisely the efifect I most desired to see —
namely, the commencement of a controversy that must be both interest¬
ing and profitable to Grape-growers, successful or otherwise. Con¬
troversies of any kind are not much in my line, but I will endeavour to
reply to your correspondents to the best of my ability, merely premising
that what 1 have to say is intended to apply to summer or midseason
Grapes only.

“ R. P.’s ” (page 262) idea of thinning the bunches on every other
Vine is identical with my own, but I was over-ruled in the matter, and
in this instance I do not regret it. The fiat went forth that by this
experiment the Vines were to be “ mended or ended.” If “ R. P.” refers
to my notes he will see I used the word “ borders ” in connection with
the use of liquid manure.

I do not agree with “ F. G.” (page 263) in excluding the sun’s rays
from the Vine border during the summer months. Mr. H. W. Ward’s note
of interrogation attached to the word “ magnificent ” on the same page
is not surprising, but to judge by the sturdy nut-brown canes and large
stout leaves, the Vines have to all appearance been equal to the occasion.
I have all along practised the system Mr. Ward advocates of bringing
up new rods in place of the old ones with their long barren spurs.

In reply to Mr. Roberts (page 263), the drainage was rectified at the
time the roots were lifted. Mr. S. T. Wright’s views on the same page
coincide with my own as to the use of manures.

Mr. Abbey’s exhaustive article on page 292 is in some respects a
revelation to me, but beyond stating that the variety left unthinned
last year was Black Hamburgh, I will only say that I am a gainer by

its perusal. Mr. Young’s and Mr. Stephen Castle’s notes (page 315)
afford additional proof of the complexity of this subject.

Your correspondents seem to be unanimously agreed that lam putting
forth the theory of non-thinning as a universal remedy for shanking in
Grapes. Nothing could be further from my mind. What I said was,
that I had no doubt that “ dispensing altogether with the scissors had
somethmg to do with the result.” My meaning was this. I took into
consideration the enfeebled state of the Vine roots through want of
proper nourishment, and it occurred to me that if I spared them the
innumerable wounds caused by thinning the bunches it might perhaps
afford them some relief. This idea may appear to some readers rather
far-fetched, but I think this year’s crop proves to demonstration that
my surmise was a correct one.

To sum up, it has been abundantly shown in these columns that
shanking exists from a variety of causes, from impoverished borders as
well as those in which the roots are overfed. Knowing as I do the past
history of the Vines under my charge, and knowing also that they have
not had to contend with such contributory causes as injudicious summer
pruning, bad ventilating, and other evils, I can only reiterate my previously
expressed opinion that in this case “ poverty at the root is the chief
cause of shanking.” — Thus. Richardson, Y/te Gardens, Simonside
Ball, South Shields.

NEPENTHES AT CHELSEA.

Perhaps in no other nursery in England is there such an excellent
and complete collection of Pitcher plants as at Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons’,
Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea. As with other things of which this
firm make a speciality, the plants under the charge of Mr. Tivey are
admirably grown. They always look clean and healthy, and the struc¬
ture devoted to them is one of the most attractive in the nursery. It
has always been strange to me that Nepenthes are not more largely
grown in private places, where they would unquestionably enhance the
beauty of a stove. True, some cultivators experience a difficulty in in¬
ducing the plants to pitcher, but this is often the fault of the growers.
If the plants are allowed to grow rampant they will not form the
pitchers, but if they are carefully attended and the luxuriant leaders
judiciously pinched, pitchers will be formed in abundance, always pro¬
viding the plants have had proper treatment in other ways.

They are very easily grown, the temperature maintained in the
generality of plant stoves being exactly suited to the requirements
of Nepenthes. Sphagnum moss and good fibrous peat form the neces¬
sary compost, and these with water rationally applied are all that is
required in the cultivation of Pitcher plants, and the popular name will
no longer appear a misnomer, as it at present does, when one sees the
miserable specimens, destitute of pitchers, growing, or rather existing,
in many stoves throughout the country. It is, I should say, practically
certain that if Nepenthes can be cultivated so well at Chelsea, where the
densest and blackest of the London fogs are experienced, and which it
is acknowledged have such an enervating effect on most plants, that
they could be grown at least equally as well in the country, where they
would have the manifold advantages found in pure air, and to which all
plants are, like human beings, so thoroughly partial.

It will doubtless be interesting to many readers to know what species
and varieties are now looking their best, I will therefore enumerate
a few of those which I considered most worthy of mention. The one
figured so excellently on page 315 of the last issue of the Journal,
N. mixta, is a beautiful hybrid with large striking pitchers, several of
which measured 10 inches in length. The grand N. Mastersiana must still
be placed in any collection, for with scarcely an exception it is the
freest growing variety known. The pitchers are also of good size and
of a rich deep red colour. N. Hookeriana carries pitchers of an entirely
different shape to the two previously mentioned varieties, they being
short and very broad. This variety, besides having fine bold pitchers,
has the merit of retaining them longer than any other, the pitchers
frequently hanging for twelve months, and being at the end of that time
still in good condition, though deficient in colouration. N. Northiana
is a handsome variety with bold and effective pitchers measuring 8 inches
long and 9 inches in circumference. The ground colour of this hybrid is
a greenish red, which is spotted and streaked with crimson. A plant of
N. Chelsoni presented an extraordinary appearance. This example was in
an 8-inch basket, and was carrying no less than twenty-five fully
developed pitchers, amongst which were several 7 inches long, and as
many or more in girth. This was the only variety I could see which
rivalled N. Masteriana in freedom of pitchering. To N. Rafflesiana
belongs the honour of bearing the largest pitchers, many of which are
capable of holding nearly a pint of water. This kind also is free,
and the plants present a really imposing sight, as I am confident
everyone would admit on seeing them.

N. Amesiana is a variety of much merit, with chocolate red pitchers
of great substance, many being 8 inches long and 11 round. N. Burkei
excellens is a handsome species which was figured at page 161 of the
Journal for August 21st, 1890. The pitchers, in many instances,
measured from 8 to 10 inches in length. A charming hybrid is found
in N. Dicksoniana. Tne predominating colour is light green, which is
profusely spotted with bright reddish crimson. The average length of
the pitchers measured on plants of N. Dicksoniana was 9 inches, by
which an idea may readily ne gained as to the striking nature of the
plant. The blood-red pitchers of N. Curtisi superba are very beautiful,
and are streaked with greenish yellow markings, which produce a unique
and at the same time pleasing effect.

October 12, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

3il

Those mentioned are well worthy of cultivation, but let me recommend
admirers of these plants to go and judge for themselves. They will then
be better able to form an idea of what they can do in their own stoves
with the aid of perseverance, and a little of that intelligence which they
lavish so freely on such plants as Chrysanthemums and Eoses. — H.

UNITED HORTICULTURAL BENEFIT AND PROVIDENT

SOCIETY.

Annual Dinner.

The members of the above Society held their seventh anniversary
dinner at the Cannon Street Hotel, E.C., on Tuesday evening, Oct. 10th.
P. C. M. Veitch, Esq., occupied the chair, and there was a large attend¬
ance, upwards of a hundred gentlemen sitting down to the tables.
Amongst others present were H. J. Veitch, Esq., N. N. Sherwood, Esq.,
Clarence Smith, Esq., M.P., H. Rivers, Esq., Messrs. Arnold Moss, G. J.
Ingram, W. Marshall, P. Barr, H. Cannell, J. Cheal, J. Hudson, B. Wynne,
G. W. Cummins, N, Cole, J. R. Chard, W. Collins, Secretary, and
numerous other horticulturists and their friends.

Mr. P. C. M. Veitch, after the customary loyal toasts, gave that of
“The United Horticultural Benevolent and Provident Society,” coupled
with the name of N. N. Sherwood, Esq. In his opening remarks the
Chairman said he looked upon it as a great honour in being asked to
preside that night. He had been brought up amongst horticulturists,
and took great interest in gardening, and especially in this Society. One
always admired the benevolent institutions, but there was something
particularly attractive in this, as a man might not only provide for him¬
self in case of sickness, but for his wife and family. (Hear, hear). A
great deal had been said of late about old age pensions, and many would
agree with such a scheme if nearly all the money invested was not eaten
up by the management. This Society was the right and true system of
old age pension. (Hear, hear). He would ask all gardeners present, and
others, to bring the Society and its good work before their young men.
It was the proper thing for gardeners to join whilst they were young.
As regards the progress they had made, it was gratifying to know that
whilst in 1877 there were only 109 members, there were now 500 on the
books. This was largely due to the annual dinners. There were now
more than £8000 invested, and these figures would show that the
Society was in a very satisfactory condition. After referring to the
small expenses connected with the Society, the Chairman observed that
the Convalescent Fund, which was started about two years ago by Mr.
Sherwood, was not, he was sorry to say, in a very strong condition.
Every member should subscribe as much as possible to it. The Benevolent
Fund was satisfactory, but he hoped it would not entrench upon the
older institutions. The motto of the Society was, “ Union is strength,”
and he would conclude by wishing them more power, (Cheers.)

Mr. N. N. Sherwood in responding, observed that he thoroughly
agreed with all that the Chairman had said. He thought that if the
objects of this Society were better known they would have three times
as many members. The Society filled a most important link between
the other two gardening charities. It teaches men to be thrifty, and it
was the duty of every man to save something. As regards the Conva¬
lescent Fund he might ask could not gardeners put the matter before
their employers, and urge them to do something towards it ? In order to
celebrate the jubilee of the firm with which he was connected (Messrs.
Hurst & Co ) he would add £50 to the Convalescent Fund, and he hoped
it would not be allowed to dwindle out (applause.)

Mr. J. Hudson proposed the “Honorary and Life Members,” and
briefly remarked that on the previous evening they had opened a new
departure in this re.spect by electing a lady as an honorary member.

Clarence Smith, Esq., M.P., and W. Marshall, Esq., responded, the
first named gentleman remarking that although there as a visitor on
that occasion, he hoped to be elected an honorary member before next
year.

Mr. H. J. Veitch briefly gave “The Officers of the Society,” coupled
with the names of Messrs. J. Wheeler, W. Collins, and J. Hudson,
who subsequently responded. Mr. Veitch remarked that he should
have pleasure in subscribing 5 guineas to the convalescent, and a
similar sum to the management fund.

Mr. Arnold Moss proposed “ The Chairman,” to which Mr. P. C. M.
Veitch briefly responded.

The tables were tastefully decorated with flowers by Mr. J. R. Chard
and others, and some excellent fruit was kindly given by various friends.
The surplus fruit was presented to the inmates of Guy’s Hospital. The
musical arrangements were under the direction of Mr. Herbert Schartau.

THE SALISBURY DAHLIAS AT HOME.

Having seen blooms of the various sections of the Dahlias in
Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co.’s first prize stands at horticultural
exhibitions in various parts of the country within the last few
weeks, a natural wish to see these flowers “ at home ” was realised
on the 11th ult., when I was fortunate enough to find Mr. W. H,
Williams “at home” also. Under his courteous and able guidance a
move was at once made in the direction of the Dahlia ground. Here
we found the veteran grower and able manager of the Castle Street
Nurseries (Mr. John Wyatt), undone of his skilled assistants, creating
havoc in a plantation of seedling Dahlias, only here and there a “ plant
of promise” being left standing for growing another year.

But in allowing the eye to wander from this somewhat desolating

scene in another direction what a floral picture presented itself I Here
1600 large plants, including all sections of the Dahlia, and in grand
flower, met the gaze and made a display impression on the mind that
will not easily be forgotten. In front were rows of the show and fancy
kinds, the blooms being of great depth and breadth and fine in form.
Conspicuous among the show varieties were the white-tipped, crimsoned-
petalled Maid of Kent, the pure white Gloire de Lyon, and the bright,
scarlet coloured Walter H. Williams. Prominent among the Pompons
was Leila, reddish buff tipped with white, and further on row after
row of the Cactus Dahlia, comprising pretty well every shade of colour
between white and crimson, many of the blooms of individual varieties
being a combination of pleasing hues. The most striking blooms
observed among this section of the Dahlia were Lady Penzance, soft
yellow (not yet in commerce) ; Dawn, lemon, deepening to orange ;
Countess of Radnor ; Kaiserin, sulphur yellow, the outer florets being
tinged with lemon ; Gloriosa, an improvement on Juarezi in size,
colour (rich crimson) and form of flower ; Countess of Pembroke,
delicate lilac, a very attractive variety ; Kynerith, rich vermilion ;
Dr. Masters, blush white tinted with lilac ; Bertha Mawley, cochineal
colour, a grand flower ; Duke of Clarence, deep crimson with scarlet
shading towards the top of the petals ; Black Prince, flowers very
large and velvety blackish maroon in colour ; Delicata, light salmon
at base of florets gradually shading off to a delicate pink ; and St.
Katherine, soft reddish amber, a fine variety.

I may be permitted to say, by way of showing the amount of labour
that was involved in watering the Dahlias at Messrs. Keynes’ during the
past four or five months, that each of the 1600 plants grown received
20 gallons of water every week — equal 32,000 gallons per week ; the
ground between the rows and plants being also heavily mulched with
substantial manure. — W. H. W.

ROYAL AQUARIUM.

October 11th, 12th, and 13th.

An Exhibition of Chrysanthemums, Begonias, and other flowers
opened at the Royal Aquarium, Westminster, on the 11th inst., and
will continue the two following days. Chrysanthemums were not so
extensively shown as many expected, but the flowers were fairly good.
Fruit was excellent, and some vegetables were staged.

The leading class in the cut bloom section was for twenty-four
Japanese, and there were five competitors. Mr. H. Shoesmith, gardener
to M. Hodgson, Esq., Shirley Cottage, Croydon, was first with a stand
of grand blooms. The best flowers were Colonel W. B. Smith, John
Shrimpton, W. Tricker, Mrs. C. H. Payne, President Borel, Sunflower,
Mons. Bernard, The second prize went to Mr, C. Cox, gardener to
John Trotter, Esq., Brickendon Grange, Hertford ; and Mr. W. Higgs,
gardener to J, B. Hankey, Esq., Fetcham Park, Leatherhead, was third.
There were six competitors in the class for twelve Japanese blooms, and
after a close fight Mr. W. Collins, Ponsbourne Park, Hertford, secured
the first prize. The flowers were fresh and even, the best being R. C.
Kingston, Sunflower, Avalanche, William Holmes, and Stanstead White.
Mr. T. Wilkins, Inwood House, Blandford, was second ; and Mr.
E. Rowbottom, The Gardens, The Priory, Hornsey, N., third. Mr. Row-
bottom, however, was first with a dozen incurved blooms, the best of
which were Mons. R. Bahuant, Mrs. Dixon, Baron Hirsch, and Eefulgens,
The second prize was secured by Mr. J, Agate, Havant, Hants.
Messrs. W, Collins and J. Agate divided the prizes for six incurved
blooms.

Mr. E. Tickner, gardener to J. Watney, Esq., Reigate, was given the
first prize for twelve Japanese blooms. There was no other competitor
in this class. The same exhibitor secured the leading prize for six
blooms of Japanese. For six blooms of new varieties, Mr. F. Agate was
awarded a silver medal. The varieties shown were Princess May, Mrs,
Fowler, Miss Watson, Charles Davis, Duchess of Devonshire, and Beauty
of Exmouth. Miss Debenham was first for twelve bunches of Pompons
in the amateurs’ class ; and Mr. D. B. Crane, Highgate, secured prizes
for these Chrysanthemums. Mr. T. Osman, Ottershaw Park, was first
for twelve Japanese blooms. The prizes for groups of Chrysanthemums
went to Messrs. Davis and H. J. Jones. Mr. Jones also had a collection
of cut blooms, not for competition.

For a table of bouquets, wreaths, and sprays composed of Chrysan¬
themums, Mr. J. R. Chard, Stoke Newington, was first with a charming
arrangement. Mr. Chard also secured the first prize for three vases
arranged with foliage and flowers in a graceful manner. Mr. F. W.
Seale, Vine Nurseries, Sevenoaks, was second, and Mr. D. B. Crane,
Highgate, third. Extra prizes went to Mr. A. Minden, gardener to
Dr. Paul, Camberwell, S.E., and Mr. W. Mole, Hemel Hempstead, Herts.

Miscellaneous exhibits were numerous. Messrs. J. Laing & Sons,
Forest Hill, S.E., arranged a charming group of Tuberous Begonias
with a background of Palms. Mr. T. S. Ware, Tottenham, sent a
hamper of Aster grandiflora, blooms of new Dahlias, and the pretty
Nerine elegans alba which was certificated at the Drill Hall on the
previous day. Mr. W. J. Godfrey, The Nurseries, Exmouth, staged a
dozen splendid blooms of Beauty of Exmouth Chrysanthemum, proving,
as remarked last year, that it is one of the finest varieties in cultivation.
The same exhibitor had blooms of several new varieties, including Charles
Davis, Duchess of Devonshire, Eda Brass, and Madame E. Rey. These
with others were placed before the Floral Committee for certificates,
but when our reporter left no awards other than in the competitive
classes had been made. Messrs. Perkins & Sons, Coventry, had blooms
of Dahlias Matchless, Purple Prince, and Mr. F. W. Seale sent Dahlias

342

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE ANB COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 12, 1893.

Daisy Seale and Roy Douglas Seale. Mr. W. Cross, Green Cottage,
Sidmouth, staged two plants of a dwarf growing dark coloured seedling
Japanese Chrysanthemum, and Mr. J. Haws, Clapton, N.E , had water¬
ing cans in variety, Mr. J. H. Witty, Nunhead Cemetery, had a
group of Chrysanthemums, and Mr. W. Wells, Barlswood Nursery,
sent some cut blooms. Mr. S. Mortimer, Swiss Nursery, Farnham,
showed Dahlias, Stephanotis, and Tomatoes. Messrs. Pitcher and
Manda sent a stand of new Chrysanthemums, as also did Mr. R. Owen,
Maidenhead. Messrs. W. Edwards & Son, Sherwood, Nottingham,
exhibited examples of their new “ Edwardian ” vases, which are
admirably adapted for all kinds of floral decoration when filled with
Ferns.

As before mentioned, fruit was largely shown. Mr. J. Watkins,
Withington, Hereford, had a collection of Apples and Pears ; and Mr.
C. C. Tudway, The Cedars, Wells, sent a dish of splendid Doyenn4 du
Comice Pears. Mr. J. Masterson, Shipston-on-Stonr, sent two dishes of
Pitmaston Duchess Pears ; Mr. T. Perkins, Thornham Hall, Suffolk,
Hero of Lockinge Melon ; and Mrs. Barret, Renfrew Villa, South
Ealing, some stewing Pears. Messrs. J. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, had
a fine collection of Apples and Pears. Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons,
Swanley, staged Apples and a splendid collection of vegetables, also
some Begonia blooms. Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Crawley, sent Apples
and Pears, and some very fine Dahlias tastefully arranged.

The prizes offered by Messrs. Sutton & Sons for vegetables brought
forth a fair competition, Mr. T. Wilkins secured the leading prizes for
Cauliflower and Beet ; Mr. C. Osman, Sutton, being second in each case.
Mr. C. Waite was first for Carrots, Leeks, Onions, Celery, and Tomatoes.
The other prizewinners in various classes were Messrs. T. Wilkins, S. T.
Cook, and D. M. Hoy let.

WOKK.f’oil™EWEEK.. '{S

HARDY FRUIT GARDEN,

Xlftlngr Fruit Trees. — One of the surest methods of inducing
fruitfulness in young trees is to lift and replant. This checks strong
growth and keeps the roots of a fibrous character, which favours sturdy,
short-jointed growth. In some places Peaches, Nectarines, Apricots,
and Plums make late growth which does not ripen well. Lifting, when
the trees are not too large, will check the late growth, and benefit the
wood already made by encouraging it to ripen earlier, also preventing
strong growth the following season. With the fruits mentioned the
work of lifting may be proceeded with early in October. It should be
done quickly, not on any account exposing the roots for a lengthened
period to dry air. Do not commence too close to the stems, as it is
important that all the fibrous roots be preserved and kept moist. Sever
the long and strong roots found, trimming them smoothly and leaving
no jagged ends. Replant a little higher than formerly, and bring some
of the fibrous roots nearer the surface, affording all good soil to ramify
in, compressing it firmly about them. Mulch the surface and a foot
beyond the space the roots extend with half-decayed manure. Previously
to this water the trees to maintain the foliage fresh, applying shade also
for a time if the leaves flag, and syringe regularly every dry day. With
these precautions lifted trees with a large proportion of foliage will soon
make fresh roots and be much improved by the slight check given.

Stations for Planting Fruit Trees. — Where it is not possible
to prepare a large extent of ground by digging or trenching it all over,
prepared stations may be formed at the required distances. They should
be 6 feet square, and hold 2 feet of good soil, resting on a gravelly,
chalky, or stony subsoil, which insures perfect drainage. Land with a
clayey, wet, and retentive subsoil will,*in order to prevent the roots
striking into an undesirable medium, causing strong unfruitful growth,
require an artificial foundation of concrete, across which may be laid
drain pipes connected with a main drain and outlet. The depth of the
concrete should be 4 inches, over which and the drain pipes must be
laid 6 to 9 inches of rubble made secure from being choked with soil by a
layer of turf grass side downwards,

Dutances Between Stations. — The distances between stations must
be guided chiefly by the fact whether the trees are on the free or
restricted stocks, this being mostly important with Apples and Pears,
which, in the esse of large orchard standards grown on free stocks,
should be 24 to 30 feet apart. Plums and Cherries may be planted in
stations formed at similar distances. Dwarf and standard-trained trees
for walls may be for Apricots, Plums, Peaches, Nectarines, and Cherries
15 to 20 feet asunder ; while Pears on Pear stocks should be 20 feet, and
on Quince stocks 12 feet apart. Horizontally trained trees for espaliers
and walls ought to be Apples on Crab stocks. Pears on Pear stocks, and
Plums 20 feet apart ; for Apples on the Paradise, and Pears on Quince
stocks 12 feet suffices. Bushes and pyramids on free stocks should be
8 to 10 feet apart, 2 feet less when root-pruned. Apples on Paradise
stocks. Pears on the Quince 6 feet apart.

Root-pruning. — .When fruit trees grown on the various restrictive
systems assume year after year a chronic state of unfruitfulness there
18 something wrong either with the roots or the methods of managing

the branches. Making too much wood in summer, before any attempt
is made by the cultivator to restrain the natural vigour within proper
bounds, is usually the cause of destroying the necessary balance between
root and branch. Summer pruning does much to restrain the growth of
wood and concentrate the sap in the fruit-bearing spurs, as well as in the
formation of buds that will eventually be fruiting spurs. But some¬
times, owing to the excessive vigour of strong roots, correct pruning and
branch management are not sufficiently capable of sustaining trees in a
permanent bearing condition. Root-pruning then becomes absolutely
necessary. The production of a large amount of gross wood and corre¬
spondingly ample arfa of leafage has a powerful effect on the roots,
which, as a rule, when receiving extraordinary stimulus, descend
perpendicularly. In doing so, especially in rich ground, they become
very strong. The same result also occurs in a moist subsoil. The results
then are coarse, thick roots followed naturally in the growing season by
gross watery wood.

Mulctalng- Fruit Trees. — While the ground is comparatively
warm and the roots unusually active there is no better time than the
present to assist weakly trees. The benefits in some cases may not be
apparent until next season, when it will be visible in stronger growth.
Trees with abundance of fruit buds require some assistance, in order
that the bulk of these may become plump and prominent before active
movement of the sap ceases. A mulch of rich manure over the roots is
of material assistance now, the virtues contained in it being washed
down to the roots and stored in the soil for future use ; the residue left
can be raked off in the spring for the sun to warm the soil.

Top-dresslngr Peacbes and ITectarlnes. — Old trees will he
greatly benefited by having the loose surface soil pared off down to the
roots, being careful not to injure the fibres, and a dressing of fresh
compost supplied chiefly composed of turfy loam, mixed with some
calcareous matter, such as pulverised lime rubble, a little manure, and
charcoal, spreading it over the roots as far as the latter extend, com¬
pressing it firm, and finishing with a light mulch of short manure.

FRUIT FORCING.

Pines. — Young Plants. — Arrange these so that they will obtain the
fullest benefit of light and air. Make an inspection of the plants about
once a week, and when water is needed apply it copiously at about the
same temperature as the bed. Ventilate freely when the external con¬
ditions are favourable, paying particular attention to this in the early
part of the day. As the sun heat declines a corresponding diminution
of temperature must take place at night until it reaches the winter
standard of 65° to 60°, and 65° in the daytime by artificial means.

Plants to Fruit Early. — Queens are the best for this purpose, but to
insure their starting into fruit with certainty they should be given a
period of comparative rest after making a good growth. Plants intended
to show fruit early in the year ought to be kept in a temperature of
about 65° in the daytime by artificial means, 60° at night, ventilating at
70°, closing at that temperature, and allowing the bottom heat to fall
to 70°. Water the plants only when necessary, not, however, permitting
them to become so dry at the roots as to cause limpness of the foliage.

Plants Showing Fruit. — Any plants now showing fruit will be
valuable, as it will come in when it is scarce, therefore afford such
plants the best position in the house. Maintain a temperature in this
department of 70° at night, 76° artificially by day, up to 85° or 90° with
sun, closing at 85°, sprinkling the pathways when their surfaces become
dry, and sprinkle the plants occasionally on fine afternoons. The
bottom heat should be kept steady at 85° to 90°. Examine the plants
about once a week for watering, and if any require it afford a copious
supply of clear liquid manure at about the same temperature as the
beds. Particular care must be taken not to over-water, as that has a
tendency to cause the fruit to become black at the centre, which affects
its keeping.

Peaches and XTectarlnes. — Earliest House. — The trees in the
earliest house must now be pruned, and everything put in proper order
for a fresh start. If the growths have been kept rather thin, and care
taken to equalise the vigour, there will be little need for the knife. Any
weak wood may be cut out in favour of sturdy and well ripened^
shortening leading growths, so as to originate shoots for furnishing the
trees. Where too crowded the bearing shoots may be thinned. Severe
winter pruning is undesirable, as it generally results in spasmodic and.
sappy growth the following year. Untie the branches from the trellis,
cleanse the house thoroughly, and dress the trees with an approved
insecticide before securing them to the trellis. Allow plenty of space
in the ligatures for the swelling of the branches. Remove the surface
soil down to tbe roots, and supply a dressing 2 inches thick of fresh
turfy loam, with an 8-inch potful of steamed bonemeal and a similar
quantity of wood ashes to every large barrowload of loam. If wood
ashes cannot be had use half the quantity of kainit. Make firm, and
follow with a good watering if the lights are fixed. The outside border
should be dressed in a similar manner. The roof lights if removed may
remain off until bad weather sets in, otherwise ventilate to the fullest
extent.

Second Early House. — The trees to be started at the new year or
soon afterwards will now have all the foliage down, and it is best to
prune and dress them, also cleanse the house without delay. If the trees
have been properly managed there will be little wood to cut out. But
it will be necessary to look them over and remove any useless parts
having escaped attention. Any shoots too long may be cut back to a
triple bud or a wood bud, making sure of the latter whether the bud be
a double or triple or single one, leaving sufficient wood for securing a

October 12, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

343

crop. Shoots 12 inches length or under must not be shortened, nor need
those that are vQry much longer. Leaving too much wood weakens the
trees in flowering, and there is not space for training-in the necessary
growths for futu"e bearing to insure their thorough exposure to light and
air. Admit all the air possible at all times. If the roof lights are off
do not replace them until the time arrives for closing the house.
Where the lights are fixed avoid permitting the borders to become too
dry, which is more pernicious than a wet soil at any time.

Midseason Houses. — The foliage in these will be approaching
maturity, but there must not be any attempt at its forcible removal,
though the falling of the leaves may be assisted by lightly brushing
the trees with a broom. The lights should be kept open day and night,
except when frost prevails, for it is not desirable to cause the sudden
collapse of the foliage through freezing. When the leaves are all down
the roof lights may be removed. Tnis will ensure conplete rest and the
even and well moistening of the soil. If any lifting or root-pruning is
intended these operations should be attended to as soon as the wood
becomes firm and the buds developed, but before the leaves have all
fallen, as there is then a better chance of fresh roots being formed than
at a later period.

Late Houses. — The fruit in these structures has ripened quite a fort¬
night to three weeks earlier than usual, and there is now a scarcity of
fruit in many places, though some still have good fruit through ven¬
tilating freely in the summer, even taking off the roof lights in broiling
weather. The wood that has borne fruit should be cut out to the suc-
cessional growths at the base, unless they are extensions. Trees growing
too luxuriantly and late should have a trench taken out at such distance
from the stem as will check their vigour and cause the buds to become
plump. Such trees should be lifted as soon as the wood is sufficiently
ripened. It should be done with dispatch, all the materials being in
readiness. See to the drainage ; if defective make it thoroughly
eflicient. Shorten back any strong roots, and bring any that are deep
nearer the surface, making the compost firm. Good loam, rather strong,
with an admixtuie of one-sixth of old mortar rubbish forms a suitable
compost. If the soil be light add a fourth of clayey marl, and if very
strong a similar proportion of road scrapings. Manure is preferably
given at the surface. Give a good watering after lifting and completing
the operations, and the roots will soon become established in the fresh
material. Trees judiciously treated at the roots whilst they have some
foliage seldom fail to set and stone the fruit satisfactorily the succeed-
ing year. Any borders in a sodden and sour state at the surface may
have a dressing of quicklime quite an inch thick, mixing it with the
soil as deeply as the roots allow without much disturbance, and this will
effect some improvement.

Cucumbers. — Plants in bearing require looking over not less than
once a weeu, removing any bad leaves and exhausted growths, training-
in young shoots, pinching out their points one or two joints beyond the
show for fruit, avoiding crowding and overcronping. Maintain a night
temperature of 65° to 70°, 70° to 75° by dav. ad Vancing to 80° or 85° with
sun, closing early, so as to rise 5° to 10°, advantage being taken of
favourable opportunities to admit a little air, yet avoid drying currents
and cold draughts. The floors should be sprinkled with water about 8 A.M.
and 4 pm. respectively, dispensing syringing the plants except on fine
days, when a light bedewing may be given at closing time. Reduce the
supply of water at the roots, but not to cause flagging, and encourage
surface roots by an occasional light dressing of loam and sweetened
horse droppings. Keep the glass clean and the foliage rather thin, so as
to secure thoroughly solidified growth.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

Carnations and Plcotees. — Layering has been a very successful
operation in spite of the dryness of the season, and since a showery period
has set in the roots have increased rapidly. No time should be lost in
detaching these rooted layers from the parent plants, all being lifted
with a small ball of soil about the roofs. In some districts it is a good
plan to place some of these young plants in 3-inch or slightly larger
pots, using fresh fibrous loam, with a li tie old Mushroom bed manure
and sharp sand added. If these are kept near the glass in dry frames or
pits, given air freely when the weather permits, and further protected
from severe frosts, very sturdy plants will be available for planting out
next spring. Some of the strongest layered plants are flowering freely,
and these might well be lifted and placed in pots that will hold them
comfortably, a good succession of flowers being had under glass accord¬
ingly. The early raised plants of Marguerite Carnations are also
flowering exceptionally well in the open borders, and something should
be done to protect them. Span-roofed or other deep frames freely
ventilated would prolong their beauty considerably, or if plants have
not been kept in 6-inch pots, the best of those in beds might well be
lifted, potted, and placed in a greenhouse to finish flowering.

Forming Fresh Beds. — Seedlings ought ere this to have been planted
out, but the layered plants have not suffered trom their long connection
with the parent plants. No time, however, should be lost in completing
the planting of all not placed in small pots. Let them have the benefit
of some fresh loamy soil, old Mushro m bed or other short manure,
and road grit. They thrive best in slightly raised beds, the latter being
about 6 feet wide, with 1-foot alleys between. Make the soil rather firm
about the roots. Slugs must be trapped, as these quickly spoil the plants.
A mulching of old Mushroom bed manure, leaf soil, or tanners’ decayed
bark acts beneficially, and in particular prevents frosts upheaving the
ground and loosening the plants to an injurious extent.

Finks. — Cuttings of Pinks are slow in rooting, especially where no
bottom heat is afforded. At the present time they may present a
sickly appearance, but will yet develop into neat plants by next spring.
Any that are strongly rooted and hardened may be at once put out into
raised beds, much as advised in the case of Carnations, only less room
should be allowed — a distance of 9 inches apart each way suiting them
well. The finest flowers are had from young plants, and a fresh bed
ought to be formed every year. No cuttings having been rooted, the old
fashioned plan of pulling healthy plants to pieces and replanting these
should be adopted. These divisions will have rather long stems, some
being furnished with roots and others not. All should be planted rather
deeply or well up to the tops.

Pansies and Violas. — If neat plants raised from seed are trans¬
planted to raised beds a good early display of flowers will most probably
be forthcoming next spring. Autumn-raised plants should be kept
under glass, and quite cool till the spring. Both Pansies and Violas
have stood the dry season rather better than anticipated, and are now
forming young shoots freely. It is these latter that make the best
cuttings, though the flowerless tops will also root readily, and push up
fresh growths from the r base. No bottom heat is needed for either.
Place a frame or frames on bricks, half fill with old beating material,
making it quite solid, and on this dispose a layer 4 inches deep of soil,
finishing off with a good surfacing of fine sandy compost, a little sand
being sprinkled over this. Shorten the cuttings to about 3 inches in
length, and insert them 3 inches apart all over the bed. Give a gentle
watering, and keep the frame close and shaded from bright sunshine
till the cuttings are rooted, after which abundance of air should be
admitted.

Calceolarias. — Cuttings are late this season, but where the old
plants were kept alive are becoming fairly plentiful. Now is a good
time to attend to the propagation of these. If many plants are required
next summer, prepare a suitable frame for the cuttings. Mulch as
advised in the case of Violas, while hand-lights or shallow boxes may be
used for smaller numbers. Give the preference to short-jointed
moderately firm shoots, cutting these just below the third joint and
trimming off the lower pair of leaves. Do not allow them to flag badly,
but dibble them out quickly just clear of each other. See that the base
of the cuttings rest on the bottom of the holes made with the dibber and
fix them well, as otherwise they will not strike roots. Water, put on
the lights, and shade from bright sunshine. They will require more
protection during the winter than Violas, but if not unduly coddled
will not be injured by an ordinarily severe frost.

w

HE BEE-KEEPER.

APIARIAN NOTES.

Practical Hints for Beginners.

{Continued from page 321.')

Beyond raising queens at the proper season from full strength
hives, and discarding very small queens, the bee-keeper has no
control of improving or selecting the best. Medium-sized queens
are often the most prolific and the longest lived, and as a rule are
fertilised at an earlier date than extra large queens, the latter
very often coming to grief through failing to mate, which some¬
times takes place within twenty days from the deposition of the
egg that produced her, and occasionally as late as fifteen weeks.
I have had several cases of the latter. As previously stated,
queens sometimes deposit eggs almost immediately after birth.
Imperfect queens do that, but in every case of the kind the pro¬
geny are drones, and the mother remains a confirmed drone
breeder. In the other cases, the queen in an unfertilised state
produces drones only ; but when mated, and then becomes a fertile
queen, she breeds both workers and drones.

Swarming and the control of it depends very much upon the state,
fertility and non-fertility of the queen. During the early spring a
hive having a fertilised but non-egg-prod ucing queen, swarms out
entirely, leaving behind it an otherwise well-stocked hive. Incipient
disease has apparently the same effect, as well as under-fed hives.
Premature swarming takes place when a duality of queens are in
a hive, either fromastrangerenteringthatbelongingtoanother hive,
or when one or more has been reared by the bees at too early a
date. Sometimesasimilar result occurs when the queen regnant shows
signs of collapsing, but at others when no reason can be assigned
a queen caged contiguous to the bees on the top cf a hive causes
swarming, and this is the reason we destroyed one (the old one)
of the two queens in the one hive system. When near the
honey flow there is no advantage gained by allowing both to
live. A very prolific queen having too little breeding space,
and a much less prolific one having too much, are both causes of
swarming.

The prevention of swarming is best effected by deposing the
queen regnant, introducing a youthful fertilised one, giving

844

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 12, 189

additional breeding space equal to receiving 5000 eggs daily ; but
this will also have its limit. A lengthened period of honey
gathering as occurs on the moors may upset all calculations. Super
room will not tend to prevent swarming ; it must be breeding
room, while after queen cells with eggs or larvae are being raised,
nothing short of winter will prevent it. Bees always prepare for
swarming eight to ten days beforehand. Destroying queen cells
will not prevent it, especially during a honey flow, for immediately
after their destruction the bees will raise others, even although
a youthful and fertile or unfertilised one be safely introduced,
which fully exposes the fallacy of “ direct introduction of
queens.”

As a rule, the mother queen leaves with the first swarm, but
there are many exceptions. If the prime swarm leaves before the
tenth day after the commencement of the first queen cell, then
the old queen is sure to be with the swarm. If delayed longer
the old queen may be destroyed, and one or several young ones
may accompany the swarm. In such cases the whole of the
swarm, after being hived, may abscond. Whenever the bees are
secured a piece of queen-excluder zinc should cover the entrance,
which will, in some cases, prevent the loss of the bees and after
swarming. The surest of all methods is to destroy all surplus
queens and queen cells eight days after the issue of the first
swarm, and at the same time remove or transfer to another hive
all unsealed brood. I had several cases this year at the moors,
where swarming was repeated five times in all its phases, and yet
the old queen remained regnant during three of the times, which
in all occupied seven weeks. In some instances the old fertile
queen remained in the hive, and left with the third and fourth
swarm respectively. In others, the young queens being fertilised
at an early date, when there was, comparatively speaking, little
breeding space, they soon filled it, and the raising of queens
followed, then swarming. The most tantalising of all phases of
swarming is when queens are preserved for weeks long after the
expected time of the deposition of surplus queens. This year I
experienced, in several cases, queens piping from three to six
weeks after they had commenced to pipe. These are, no doubt,
exceptional instances, but they occur oftener than most bee-keepers
suspect.

Introducing alien queens sometimes bothers the beginner. To
accomplish this safely the hive must be deprived of its queen
regnant, making sure there is no other perfect or imperfect ones,
known by the bees raising queen cells. After there are no unsealed
brood the queen cells ought to be destroyed, leaving the bees with¬
out a chance of rearing one perfect or otherwise, when they will
make a commotion towards evening. This is a sure indication that
they are queenless and will accept a queen. Introduce her by
caging first in a safety cage, which consists of two apartments, one
for the queen and the other for the bees, separated from each other
by a piece of wire cloth or perforated zinc, and covered with glass
sliding in grooves. When the bees are willing to accept the alien
queen they cluster loosely against and under her, and she will be
active or adhering firmly to the zinc anxious to join the bees.
The little slide in the end of the cage may then be drawn up and the
work is done. If, on the other hand, the bees show a great desire to
get to the queen they are not in a pacified state to receive her. A
little experience soon teaches the beginner when to admit the
union, fc’o long as the bees show white necks they are too frenzied,
and would in all probability kill the queen.

As a substitute for the safety cage, remove the lid, admit the
bees to the crown of the hive, place the cage upon its edge, and
cover with a beU-glass. Watch their proceedings, and when favour¬
able remove the glass, lifting the wire cloth a little so that the bees
can get at the candy. They will eat it and join peaceably with her,
when in a day or so the encumbrances may be removed and the
covering of the hive adjusted.

Hiving is sometimes as provoking to the beginner as it is
interesting, as the bees when leaving the hive are not known by
the bee-keeper where they will settle. I will in another chapter
give some particulars forming the guidance of beginners. —
A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

(To be continued.)

GARDENEES’ CHARITABLE AND PROVIDENT
INSTITUTIONS.

The Gardeners’ Kotal Benevolent Institution. — Secretary,
Mr. G, J. Ingram, 60, Parliament Street, London, W.C.

United Horticultural Benefit and Provident Society. —
Secretary, Mr. \V. Collins, 9, Martindale Road, Balham, London, S.W.

n Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. — Secretary, Mr. A. F Barron,
Royal Horticultural Society’s Gardens, Chiswick, London, W.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent. — Carnations, Picotees, PinJiS,
and New Chrysanthemums.

P. J. Loozmanse & Sons, Ondenbosch, Holland. — Ornamental and
Forest Trees, ^-c.

M. Vigneron, A. Olivet, Orleans. — Roses.

W, Wells, The Earlswood Nurseries. — Clirysanthe^mms.

•^•All correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the stafiE often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Poetry (^Planta'). — We do not know the book from which the
laboured verse is taken, and if we did should decline giving it an
advertisement in the form you appear to desire. Why did you not send
your name and address? We do not desire any more anonymous
inquiries of this nature.

Beet Seed (6^. Craig'). — The wholesale price of this, like other
seeds, is governed by the supply, and it is not unlikely that the prices
for many kinds will rule higher than usual this season. We cannot give
the “average” prices of any kind of seeds. The information can only
be had by consulting wholesale price lists over as many years as you
wish the “ average ” to be based — three, five, ten, or twenty as may be
thought desirable for your object.

Pansy Celtic Gem {Alex. Lister). — The yellow self Fancy Pansy
bloom sent is of large size, rich gold colour, with an immense bronzy
maroon blotch in the three lower petals, which are much rayed in the
margin. It is a grand decorative variety, and if the blotch had been
cleaner cut on the margin and the lower petal a little wider it would
have been a very fine exhibition flower. We find that with the cooler
autumnal weather some very fine Pansy blooms are now to be seen,
and many such come under our notice. The fiower in question of Celtic
Gem is 3 inches in diameter.

Crlnum capense (.7. G.). — Presumably you did not see our reply
in the issue for July 20tb, page 66. The plant should have completed
its growth now, and be fully exposed to every ray of sunshine possible,
and have abundance of air. The supply of water should be gradually
diminished until the plant can be kept dry, but not sufficiently dry to
cause the thick fleshy roots to perish. By this treatment the plant will
not be quite deciduous, but when grown in a warm position outside the
whole of the foliage is invariably destroyed by frost. The Japanese
Honeysuckle to which you refer ic perfectly hardy, and may be planted
in a sheltered place outside, where we have no doubt it will do better
than in your conservatory. We have known this plant fail under glass
by being kept more or less constantly growing. A season [of rest is
important to secure good growth and perfect health.

Original Testimonials (X. Y. Z.). — We conceive that while an
employer receiving “ generally addressed ” testimonials would not be
liable for their accidental loss or destruction (seeing that the holder
should carefully guard his interest in them by sending copies), that
employer cannot retain possession of originals after notice to return
them to the owner. The entrusting of their carriage to the care of the
post office is no evidence that the owner intended to part with them.
So long as the original testimonials are in transmission within the un¬
broken envelope, the envelope and its contents belong to the addressee.
After reading the testimonials he has a qualified right of possession as
against everybody but the owner, to whom he must yield them on
demand. The position is more clearly seen by supposing that the
testimonials have been stolen from their rightful owner and sent to the
addressee by an impostor. The mere fact of the impostor sending them
through the post cannot confer an absolute right of possession to them
on the addressee. He is then in the position of a holder of stolen or lost
property, who has a mere qualified right of possession to the property,
and which yields to the absolute right of the owner when he appears.
The sender of original testimonials, by transmitting them through the
post, no more parts with his ownership than by losing them, though he
takes the risk of their becoming irrevocably lost or destroyed upon
himself.

October 19, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

347

“ A NALYSE the plants you require, see what they are composed
of, and then analyse your soil and see if these things are in
it ; if not, put them in. How simple, refreshingly simple, is it not ?
What a glorious discovery ! Why, we can grow what we like, and
where we like, and very nearly when we like. Why did not some¬
body think of this before ? ” These were something like my
thoughts once upon a time. I was younger then and youth has
its enthusiasm, its illusions, and afterwards its awakening. Since
then I have found that matters do not always turn out as we think
they ought. There is usually a hitch somewhere, sometimes two
or three, and not seldom you begin to think there is nothing
but hitches. Then a kink comes out, one of the hitches unravels,
and you recommence with renewed energy ; the next hitch
straightens out, and the fever of enthusiasm once more possesses you,
but you again find something has gone wrong, and sit down dis¬
couraged. There was a time when I thought I held the science of
agriculture in the palm of my hand. A few attempts to put theory
into practice convinced me that some of it was oozing out between
my fingers, then I began to wonder if I had not a handful of
disconnected facts to play with, and to-day I see that scientific
farming only looms hazily and lazily in the distance.

Oh ! these visions of the young enthusiast, how they mock our
eager souls ! I was going to analyse every field and register the
composition of its soils, and would henceforth know exactly what
it wanted, and this is how it worked, or rather did not work. I put
my views earnestly before a typical farmer, who listened to them
all with a patience I have often since wondered at. Then he said,
“Umph; so you are another of ’em, are you? You’re a clever
young fellow, I daresay ; but you see, I am an old farmer — so was
my father, so was my grandfather, and so was his for anything I
know. They learnt summat, lad, by a lifetime’s work, and left their
experiences to their sons, and I’ve got the benefit of it all and added
my own, and you’ll excuse me if I think I know more about farming
than you do.” He thought he was crushing me, but I said, “ Do
you admit that many great improvements have been made in agri¬
culture, and especially in agricultural implements of late years?”
“ Oh yes ! ” said he, “ that’s right enough, we’ve made wonderful
progress, lad.” “Oh!” said I, “have you? Is there a single
farmer, born such, that has not opposed every new thing with all
his might ? Has there ever been an improved implement brought
out by a farmer ? Has any one of these improvements been
brought about by the farmers themselves ? Have not every one
of them been suggested and planned by outsiders — people not to
the manner born?” This rather startled him, I think, but, of
course, did not convince him. Eventually I induced an amateur
farmer to let me experiment, and the success was encouraging ; but
a knock-down blow was in store for me. I had as I thought an ex¬
ceedingly clever way of getting at the nature of the soil of a large
field. I procured 16 or 32 half ounces of soil from as many parts of
the field, and so obtained (I imagined) a fair sample of the whole.
One day I had a sample of soil thus selected, and found it so full of
iron that I said, “ This soil will grow nothing at all,” and was met
with the reply, “ Why, it is the best land we have.” Still, I was
right ; I could only judge by the sample I had in hand, and it was

* Read byMR. W. PICKARD at the Monthly Meeting of the Sheffield Chrysan¬
themum Society, held in the Society’s meeting-roim, Oct. 11th, 1893.

No, 695. — VoL. XXVII., Third Series.

full of iron. A number of iron hoops had been left to fall to
pieces on one part of the field, and from thence a good portion of
my sample had been taken. I had already found out that to
analyse soil for potash, lime, magnesia, phosphates, sulphates,
nitrates, and chlorides involved eight different processes, and that
to be fairly sure of the result each experiment had to be repeated
twice or thrice, and that the farmer thought all this analysing could
be paid for by “ thanks ” (I did not always get that), and when
these iron hoops trundled up I just resigned that part of the
business, and informed the farmers that if they wanted their soils
analysing any more they must let their sons learn chemistry, or do
it themselves, or pay from £5 to £10 for the work.

The foregoing indicates some of the difficulties of soil analysis.
An accidental spill of some material in one part of the field may
totally deceive the chemist. He can but report what he obtains
from the sample sent him. That sample may give a fairly correct
idea of the bulk, but there is at least an equal chance that it may
not, and till our farmers are also chemists, and can spend their
evenings and rainy days in slowly ascertaining the nature of their
soil, it will be best and cheapest to analyse crops, see what they
are built up of, and put those materials into the soil as manure in
the proportions found in the crops, and take no care for what may
or may not be in the soil already. Of course where large quanti¬
ties of certain materials are known to be in the soil, such as lime
or magnesia, those may be kept out of the manure ; but where
there is a doubt it is best to add all.

Nearly all plants and roots of plants contain phosphates, nitrates,
sulphates, as well as soda, magnesia, potash and lime, and hence
it may be argued (and fairly) that these materials must be available.
Wheat, broadly speaking, analyses into 32 per cent, potash, 3 per
cent, soda, 12 per cent, magnesia, 3 per cent, lime, 47 per cent,
phosphates, 1 per cent, sulphates, and a little iron and silica.
The straw of Wheat is more than half silica, that is flint, so that
without silica you would get no Wheat at all, at least in its present
state. As a creeping plant it might still flourish, and perhaps do
better so. The things we do not know are vastly more numerous
than those we do. It may be that the superabundance of silica alone
causes the Wheat to rise upright, and that this is an interference with
Nature’s first intention. Wheat, Oats, and Barley are all evidently
the same plant modified by circumstances and environment. What
they may eventually modify into no one can guess. A crab is a
lobster with its tail curved in and set fast, and Indian Corn as a varia¬
tion of Wheat is less astonishing. We know not what anything
may develop into. Chrysanthemum growers should see something
of the vast latent power yet unused in Nature’s storehouse. Who
can say what a simple Buttercup could be made into by constant
attention and abundant supplies of all plant food? Food can make
a worker into a queen bee. What could it not do if we knew how
to utilise it to best advantage ? Environment is everything, the
vast potentialities concealed in every speck of protoplasm are not
to be measured by our stunted yard sticks. Potatoes analyse into
about 60 per cent, potash, 1 per cent, soda, 3 per cent, lime, 5 per
cent, magnesia, 1 per cent, iron, 17 per cent, phosphates, 6 per cent,
sulphates ; Mangel Wurzels into about 30 per cent, potash, 30 per
cent, soda, 6 per cent, phosphates, and other things. It is clear
enough from this that Potato manure does not want soda, and
Mangel Wurzel manure wants large quantities of it. The compo¬
sition of Strawberries is very like that of Mangel Wurzels, and I
am not at all sure that if you were to try very hard and patiently
you could not succeed in making a Mangel Wurzel into something
very like a huge Strawberry. I am far from sure even now that
Mangel Wurzel is not made into Strawberry jam.

By this time you have begun to see that the question is not
one of remarkable simplicity. The secrets of Nature have to
be wrung from her by force of patient investigation, experi¬
ments long continued and often repeated. We have learned that
all vegetable products are composed of various chemicals. Most

No. 2351.— VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

848

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Ootobcr 19, 1893

people associate chemicals with some sort of inferior goods made
to represent, or as substitutes or adulterants for the proper article.
It does not occur to them that there is not one thing in Nature,
from the central grain of matter in the heart of this solid earth to
(he uttermost depths of the starlit universe, that is not a chemical,
and subject to all the laws of chemistry. Every speck of dust is
a mass of chemicals ; the air you breathe is 76 parts nitrogen,
23 parts o'^yg&n, and a little carbon. The air of Sheffield contains
a grea/'' deal of carbon, but it is in the shape of a gas — carbonic
acid. The carbon in smoke is carbon only — particles of charcoal,
not carbonic acid. The water you drink is a chemical, hydrogen
and oxygen. Table salt is chloride of sodium ; the table, tablecloth,
knives and forks, plates, and all you can put upon them, yourself,
are all chemicals. It’s no use saying, “ No chemicals in mine,”
You must either live entirely on chemicals or die of hunger ; there
is nothing else in the whole universe. When you despise
chemicals you despise your parents in more senses than one, and
yourself also.

Let us get back. I said that we had learned that all vegetation
was formed of various chemicals. These are mainly potash, soda,
lime, magnesia, and iron, and their salts, nitrates, sulphates,
chlorides, and phosphates, but we have yet to learn what or which
of these salts are best for particular crops. When we have learned
these facts we have to go deeper still, and find out if we can how
the plants get hold of them. We say (as an easy way out of it)
that these chemicals have to be dissolved in the water in the soil,
and then the rootlets — the fine fibrillse of the roots — absorb the
liquid — drink them if you like ; but we are only guessing. We
cannot get down there with our microscope. Nature is too much
for us. With all our skill and perseverance of inquiry and search
we do not know with any sort of certainty whether plants absorb
nitrogen (the nitrate maker) as nitrogen, as nitrates, or ammonia^
You will perhaps have wondered why I have so far said nothing
about ammonia, which we all know to be a good fertiliser. The
reason is, I have included it in the term “ nitrates.” Ammonia is
a nitrate of hydrogen. Every chemist who makes a discovery of a
new compound, is or has been allowed to christen his invention
by some name of his own choosing, so that we have many
names for the same thing, which is confusing to the ordinary
reader. Chemists are often made fun of in those omniscient
newspapers, who know so much and so little of everything, for
using such long words. I am sorry any other kind were ever used,
they simplify matters amazingly, in spite of the battalions of
letters, Di, Nitro, Polyl, Amido, Phenyl, Amine look ferocious
enough, but a chemist glancing at it knows pretty nearly how it is
made, but if it had been called Manchester Blue or Sheffield
Scarlet it would have conveyed no information.

I do not know what a Chrysanthemum analyses into, but I
should say about 32 per cent, potash, 2 per cent, soda, 12 per cent,
magnesia, 10 to 20 per cent, lime, 9 per cent, phosphates, 3 per cent,
sulphates, 6 per cent, silica. This is the analysis of red Clover,
which is such a lover of lime that if you apply this material heavily
on almost any field you will get a crop of Clover, even if you have
not put a single Clover seed into the soil. This brings on the
tapis another of Nature’s economies, or if you like it better we
can (and without being paradoxical at all) call it one of Nature’s
extravagances. The soil is full of seeds. Nature has provided a
thousand ways of transporting seeds of all kinds to all places. A
whole series of very interesting papers might be written on the
infinite variety of Nature’s methods in this respect. Suffice for
the present to say that all soils are more or less full of all
kinds of seeds. Which of them comes up depends on the soil.
Many kinds are there waiting opportunity — waiting, one may
say, for the suitable partner ; when that partner turns up,
the orchestra strikes up the music of the spheres, and the
waltz begins. When lime is used plenteously it destroys some
seeds, paralyses others, but wakens the dormant Clover seed into
joyous life. When the Black Forest in Germany was on fire years

ago the Fir trees vyere burnt to the ground, and the seeds and roots
destroyed also. Beneath these lay the waiting Beech seeds, and up
sprang a forest of Beech trees where formerly had been Fir trees,

(To be continued.)

MICHAELMAS DAISIES AT CHISWICK.

Notwithstanding that the perennial Asters, or Michaelmas
Daisies, as they are popularly termed, have for many years been
grown in gardens, their merits for a lengthy period were unrecog¬
nised, They were formerly cultivated, moreover, in a very haphazard
manner, hybridised, and named perhaps indiscriminately, with the
inevitable result that much confusion has existed regarding the
nomenclature of the numerous species and varieties. To a certain
extent this difficulty still remains, and it is the opinion of some
authorities that it cannot be entirely overcome, but much good work
in this direction was accomplished last year by the Sub-Committee
appointed by the Royal Horticultural Society for the purpose of
revising the nomenclature of this extensive genus. The gentlemen
comprising this Committee found the species (of which there are
something like 250 known to botanists), varieties, and hybrids, with
their synonyms in a confused mass, but, thanks to their efforts, more
order has been maintained, and when a choice collection of the best
kinds is grown, as at Chiswick, it is possible to recognise the better
forms and identify them with accuracy. Improvements, however,
might still be effected in this matter, and the work of elimination so
well begun could be carried on with advantage in trade circles.
Were this accomplished systematically there would be less cause for
complaint, now often heard, as to the “ weediness ” of Michaelmas
Daisies, and instead of this they would occupy a foremost place
amongst autumn-blooming plants.

Regarding the collection of Michaelmas Daisies in the gardens of
the Royal Horticultural Society, it is perhaps the finest that may be
found in any one garden. All the best cultivated forms have been
gathered from the various sources in Britain, and being planted on
a long border by themselves, an excellent opportunity for observing
the distinctive characteristics of the respective species and varieties
is thus afforded. A glance at these during the autumn will convince
the most sceptical that the better perennial Asters are deserving of
all that can be said in their favour. Here can be seen the type of
any one particular species, and by its side the varieties or improved
forms may be noticed. The most conspicuous improvements that have
thus been effected are apparent to all, and those who observe keenly
will see a distinction between the varieties that are grown. Some may
be distinguished by the colour of their stems, and others it is possible
to recognise by a broad or narrow, or squarrose or ad pressed involucre,
as well as the height, habit, and time of flowering. These character¬
istics are detailed in the descriptions of the best species and varieties
drawn up by the Committee referred to, and published in the Journal
of the Royal Horticultural Society, vol. xv., parts 2 and 3. In some
parts of the border we find clumps of the taller growing species,
some loose and graceful, others compact in habit, and close by are
plants of the dwarf forms covered like the former with blossoms
that sparkle brilliantly in the sinking sun of an auUimn day. This
year many of the perennial Asters flowered prematurely, as did
numerous other plants, and on visiting the collection at Chiswick
last week the writer found the majority of the earlier kinds past their
best, but sufficient remained to afford an additional proof (if such
were needed) as to their adaptability for garden decoration. The
later plants were loaded with blossoms, and the names of the species
and varieties that were in blossom may be acceptable to readers who
take an interest in this genus.

It has been pointed out by an authority on Michaelmas Daisies
that the “weakest point about them is their colour, or rather want of
colour.” There may be some truth in this assertion if applied to the
ordinary types generally seen in gardens, but it is scarcely applicable
to the better forms as grown at Chiswick. Here we find a
harmonious blending of colour, beautiful if not brilliant, and
sufficient to brighten a garden at this late period. Various shades of
purple predominate in the blooms it is true, but these only render
more conspicuous the blue forms and those that have white flowers.
Amongst others now in bloom at Chiswick are some very fine varie¬
ties of Aster novse belgii, and these alone comprise a choice selection.
A. n.-b. Robert Parker is a free-flowering form about 5 feet in
height, but rather a straggling grower. Another good variety with
deep rosy lilac blossoms is A. n.-b. Minerva. The well-known
A. n -b. Harper Crewe is also seen to advantage at Chiswick, and
this still remains one of the best white Michaelmas Daisies in
cultivation. A form named Pluto, belonging it would appear to
A. Isevis, but labelled as a variety of A. novse-belgii, is exception¬
ally fine, growing from 3 to 4 feet in height, and covered with large
light coloured flowers. For making a display late in the autumn

October 19, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

349

A. Isevis floribundus is well adapted, the flowers being of dark rosy
purple shade, and the plant compact in growth. A. n.-b. Archer Hind
is apparently a valuable late-flowering variety, attaining a height of
4 feet, with rosy lilac flowers ; and the same may be said of A. n.-b.
Leda, which has rather small dark coloured flowers. A. n.-b. Juno
(given as a variety of A. laevis in the list mentioned) is one of the
brightest varieties now in flower in the collection, the flowers being
moderately large and of a rich purplish blue shade. An unnamed
seedling from A. novae-belgii x A. laevis was also noticeable, this
being dwarf in habit, with a profusion of white medium-sized flowers.
Another dwarf variety worthy of extensive cultivation is A. n.-b.
densus, which is very compact in growth and the flowers lilac
purple. Other good forms of A. novae-belgii in flower last week
included Albion, Fortuna, and Calliope. That confusion in the
nomenclature of these plants still exists is indicated by the fact that
whilst several kinds at Chiswick are labelled distinctly as varieties of
A. novae-belgii they are given in the Journal referred to as forms of
A. laevis. This probably is because a large number of the perennial
Asters grown in gardens are hybrids between A. laevis and A. novae-
belgii ; but notwithstanding it would prevent further confusion if
the varieties were labelled correspondingly with the list to which
allusion has been made.

Late-flowering varieties of A. novae-angliae do not appear to be
quite so plentiful as those of the species above mentioned. The
type is an attractive plant when well grown, being nearly 5 feet in
height, and as a rule laden with fine rose-coloured flowers in October.
Beautiful as the species is, however, the form known as A. n.-a.
rubra is even better. At Chiswick this is about 3 or 4 feet in
height, and bears an abundance of bright rosy red flowers. A. n.-a.
pulchella is another very fine variety, rather dwarf in growth, with
large deep violet flowers. Like A. n.-a. rubra this is very distinct,
and should be given a place in every garden. Although rather straggling
in growth and bearing medium-sized rose-coloured flowers, A. n.-a.
roseus forms a pleasing feature when grown in a mass. A. n.-a.
praecox is another desirable variety, which attains a height of 3 feet
or so, and yields a profusion of light purplish flowers. The well-
known A. acris is a remarkably showy plant when seen at its best;
but A. acris nanus is a decided improvement on the type fiom a
decorative point of view. The plant is more dwarf and compact in
growth, and the beautiful star-like purplish flowers harmonise
splendidly with the graceful foliage. It is a grand variety for
growing on rockeries. Those who favour the gmall flowered forms,
many of which are exquisitely graceful if not particularly showy, will
find A. cordifolius Diana worthy of at ention. This had white
blooms and finely cut leaves. A. cordifolius elegans, as its name
implies, is another good form, and the same may be said of a variety
labelled A. cordifolius albula. The varieties of A. Drummondi
have their good qualities, especially A. D. cora, which is rather tall
in growth, and a fine late-flowering plant. A. versicolor Antigone
(syn. discolor major) is a charming form, as also is A. v. Themis
(syn. discolor), the latter being about 2 feet high, and of a compact
habit. A. paniculata (syn. carnea) W. G. Grant, too, is deserving
of more than a passing notice, and the same applies to A. laevis Virgil,
which is a very fine form. Among the dwarf - growing kinds
A. A melius stands pre-eminent, but it is not so good as A. Amellus
majus, which is, according to the plants grown at Chiswick, later
flowering than the popular A. a. bessarabicus. It has large rich
violet purple flowers. There are many more species and varieties
grown in the collection referred to, but as before said, they were for
the most part past their best at the time of my visit, hence a reference
to the late-blooming kinds must suffice for the present. These are
exceptionally valuable for the embellishment of gardens during October
and November, and they are deserving of extensive cultivation.

Relative to the culture of the Michaelmas Daisies, that cannot
be said to be a very difficult matter. With few exceptions they
will flourish in any ordinary garden soil provided it is of a fertile
character, but they repay any extra attention that may be given them
bv producing flowers more abundantly. This should not bo over¬
looked by those who grow the perennial Asters, and a top-dressing
of decayed manure in the spring is by no means a waste of labour.
In some cases annual division when commencing growth in the
spring is desirable, this treatment suiting many varieties of A. novae-
belgii and A. laevis. The dwarf forms, such as the beautiful A. Stracheyi,
alpinus, Amellus majus, and others might advantageously be employed
for bedding, inasmuch as apart from their freedom in flowering
many of them possess a graceful growth which well merits attention.
— C.

NERINE ELEGANS ALBA.

This charming Nerine was exhibited by Mr. T. S. Ware, Hale Farm
Nurseries, Tottenham, at the last meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society, and a first-class certificate was awarded for it. The plant shown
was a small one, and bore one spike, about G aches high, carrying nearly

a dozen pure white flowers, as shown in the illustration (fig. 51). The
exhibitor informed us that Nerine elegans alba “ is a native of South
Africa, probably Natal. It is not a garden form, but a wild species, and
has been in his possession for two years only. It is almost hardy in this
country, but he would recommend the protection of a cold frame during
the winter in order to protect the leaves from injury, which would spoil
the plant for a whole year. Of course, it requires its proper season of
rest.” Although less showy than the scarlet-flowered types, a white
Nerine is somewhat of a novelty, and usually arrests attention.

FEEDING TREES and PLANTS and ENRICHING
THE SOIL IN THE AUTUMN.

It has frequently occurred to me when advocating the adoption
of definite cultural practices, that were we always to do it
with the full force of our conviction we might unconsciously lead

FIG. 51.— JfEEINE ELEGAKS ALBA.

others to believe that the very existence of the plant or crop
under notic3 depended upon carrying out to the letter the
precise method of culture advanced, whereas we know well that
equally good results may sometimes be obtained by pursuing a
course which differs considerably in its cultural details. In the
majority of instances, however, there are local circumstances, or
the attainment a different object attempted, which fully account
for the ultimate success of practices apparently at variance with
each other. If these considerations are steadfastly borne in mind
by gardeners of all grades many valuable lessons will be adduced
which will help them to determine the best course to pursue at
times when cultural problems present themselves, and which must

850

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 19, 1893,

be overcome before cultivation of the highest order can be
achieved.

Intimately connected with this subject of high culture is that
of feeding plants and crops, indeed it is the very foundation of it,
but the essential conditions to ensure success are that whatever
fertilisers be given must be applied at the right time and in the
proper way. Much injury may be done by over-feeding or by
giving stimulants at the wrong time, and I have repeatedly pointed
out in the Journal of Horticulture the disastrous effects of applying
liquid manure in too strong a condition, or before root action is
sufficiently advanced to require it. The whole question hinges
upon the exercise of sound judgment in determining when this
stage is reached, and the knowledge requisite for the purpose can
only be gained by observation and experience. Let this point once
be mastered and there is no comparison between the results
achieved by those cultivators who feed their plants and crops
continuously and those of others who follow only haphazard or
irregular methods of doing it. The former keeps innumerable
diseases and insects at bay, which are a continual source of trouble
to the latter, for it is an undoubted fact that vegetation of all
descriptions speedily become a prey to their attacks when weakened
through want of nourishment, or get out of health from other
causes, while, on the other hand, when health and vigour are main¬
tained insect pests are generally conspicuous by their absence.

The foregoing will show I hold the opinion that many of the
ills from which plants suffer are brought about directly or indirectly
through lack of a sufficient supply of nourishment ; but let it be
distinctly understood I add the saving clause, that this nourishment
must be given under the right conditions if the best results are to
be obtained. In the spring and early summer our thoughts
naturally turn to the practice of enriching the soil with manure, or
feeding crops by means of natural liquid manure or chemical
fertilisers. This has become so much a matter of routine that in
many instances feeding is carried on with a lavish hand during the
period above named, and singularly neglected or only indulged in
spasmodically during the greater part of the year.

The question arises in my mind, Do we pay sufficient attention
to feeding (especially in the case of fruit trees and plants in pots)
during the late summer and autumn ? I think not. The roots of
the former are known to be extremely active during that period,
and trees which have borne heavy crops of fruit derive immense
benefit if liberal applications of liquid manure are given, either
before or after the leaves have fallen, preferably before, as the
buds are then enabled to develop to their fullest extent ; the
leaves being kept healthy and robust continue to perform their
functions till the gradually lowering temperature diminishes the
flow of sap and causes them to turn yellow and drop very slowly,
hanging with great tenacity to the branches till the last vestige of
green has left them. The buds are thus nourished to their fullest
development, and the trees begin the rest of winter in a sound
healthy condition. With hard prominent buds and a natural fall
of foliage the prospect for the succeeding year is always good.
Contrast the condition of such trees with that of others which may
have been equally healthy during the previous summer, but having
borne heavy crops of fruits were, by the beginning of the autumn,
in a partially exhausted state, and no special means being taken to
enable them to recoup their energies, the leaves fall early and
quickly, while the buds are neither so hard nor prominent as they
should be. Trees which go to rest in this enfeebled state can
scarcely be expected to produce vigorous flowers in spring, neither
do they. Blossom there may be in abundance, but it either fails
to set properly, or the greater part of the fruit drops in its early
stages. Thus the loss of a crop of fruit may be distinctly traced
to the neglect of feeding at a critical time. I am convinced there
are thousands of fruit trees which would give infinitely better
results if this matter received greater attention, though, unfor¬
tunately, in many instances, through pressure of other work, it is
impossible for gardeners to give it, except in the case of choicer
fruits, such as Peaches, Nectarines, and Pears on walls. Numbers
of o‘ber fruit trees of various descriptions which have gradually
drifted into a sterile state through neglect and continual starvation
may often be met with. It is surprising how greatly old trees in
this condition may be improved provided the branches are sound and
free from canker, but too much must not be expected in one season.

In the case of old wall trees which have covered their
allotted space, a regular thinning of both spurs and branches and
the laying in of young shoots, if carried out in conjunction with
judicious feeding at the roots, will in the course of a few seasons
convert them into vigorous fruitful trees. No better time than the
present could be found to give them the attention they need at
the roots. The surface soil should be removed, starting at a
distance of from 4 to 6 feet from the main stem, and gradually
working to it. Occasionally roots will be found near the surface,
but generally they are fully a foot beneath it, except near the main

stem. Strong roots destitute of fibre may be frequently noticed
striking deeply into the soil, or extending a great distance from the
wall. Trees in the condition above indicated derive their prin¬
cipal support from these ; it is therefore unwise to disturb many
of them until new roots have been formed nearer the stem ; some,
however, should, if possible, be traced to a point where they branch
into numerous smaller ones, there be cut asunder, trimmed at the
points with a sharp knife, and afterwards notched at intervals of a
foot throughout their entire length. A compost consisting of good
loam six parts, fresh horse droppings one, wood ashes half a part,
with a little soot, and should the loam be heavy lime rubble added,
is an excellent one with which to replace the worn out soil removed.
First place a layer of this underneath the bared roots, so as to bring
them to within 6 inches of the ground line. Next draw the points
of the long roots which have been severed and notched toward the
main stem so as to confine them if possible to within a radius of
5 feet, secure them in position by means of strong wooden pegs,
then cover them with the prepared compost, which should be
trodden moderately firm. The surface when finished ought to be
slightly above the ground level to allow for sinking. Over this a
layer of short manure should be placed. In order to keep the roots
of younger trees within bounds, a trench should be dug out every
three years, at about 4 feet from the stem, the points of the roots
cut with a sharp knife, and the trench filled in with the compost
above described, a few inches of the surface soil between the trench
and the stem being also removed and replaced with fresh soil,
always finishing off with a layer of short manure, unless the trees
have a tendency to grow too strongly.

A certain position of this work should be carried out periodi¬
cally, otherwise it will assuredly get in arrears. In all instances in
which trees must perforce stand over for another season before
they receive this necessary attention, much help may be rendered
them by applying liquid manure during the autumn and winter
months. Every drop of this valuable fertiliser obtainable may be
turned to good account in this way, by storing in the soil the food,
which the roots of trees and crops will not be slow to appropriate
during their season of need. — H. Dunkin.

(To be continued.)

ARE TOMATO DISEASES CONTROLLABLE?

Bacterial and Eelworm Troubles — Specimens Wanted.

“ Hygienist” (page 325) may be congratulated on his endeavour
to reconcile theory with practice — scientists with cultivators. This
cannot too soon be effected, for there is really no difference between
sound theory and successful practice. The one is of no value without
the other, and I have come to regard them as sjnonymous for all
useful cultural purposes.

As regards bacteria it may safely be concluded that these bodies
generate heat, inasmuch as they act on the principles of a ferment,
and are most active under droughty conditions of the atmosphere or
surrounding medium and in high temperatures. In this way only can
we account for the deposits of nitrate of soda in Chili and nitrate of
potash in India. It is also well known that the micro-organisms which
render soils fertile are active in the summer when the soil is driest
and warmest, and are passive in the winter when the soil is wettest and
coldest. But we must bear in mind that bacteria, like other forms of
life, may— nay, must — be separated into the useful and malignant,
and it is important that the one be known from the other, else the
first cannot be encouraged and the latter discouraged. When a soil
is excessively manured year after year or cropped with the same
plant in consecutive years, we know that something will sooner or
later befall the crop. It may be that the ground of a kitchen garden
becomes sodden and sour, but we rarely consider that we have
encouraged the micro-organisms whose office is to convert matter
into elements poisonous to the crops we desire to grow. Now,
instead of pursuing this disastrous course, manure is withheld and we
give a dressing of lime. What happens? The chemist will tell us
that it effects certain changes, liberates ammonia, and does many
other things. He will only tell us what he knows. There is no
theory about ; it has all been found out by scientific inquiry and hard-
headed practice. I know what the result is from a cultivator’s point
of view ; but I also want to know how, therefore must acquire
chemical knowledge, and when I can ascertain whether the chemist’s
theory is correct and my practice sound. Many cultivators acquire this
intuitively or glean it by a round-about system of empirical practice
and repeated experiments, which are characterised by more losses
than gains, and the outcome is that as little is known of the why and
how at the close as at the commencement.

The chemist can only tell us so much and no more. The
ammonia liberated by the lime is not a particle of use as food for the
crop until it is converted by one organism into nitrite, and by another
into nitrate. Therefore by the action of the lime we set machinery

October 19, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

861

at work, which converts the ammonia into nitrate of lime and potash,
and the result is that instead of the crop, say Potatoes, being all top,
there are abundance of tubers. The fact is we have checked or
destroyed the malignant organisms, and brought into activity the
useful. That is the way to come at facts, and it is only by so doing
that we are able to give a satisfactory account of our practice.

Bacterium Halstedi is a malignant micro-organism. Its business
is to live and perpetuate its species. It requires plants— Tomatoes,
Cucumbers, Melons, Vegetable Marrows, and perhaps Potatoes to
live upon, and in no instance has it been found upon native plants.
This by no means points to the necessity of its being introduced, for
it may after all prove to be a native of this country, just the same as
Oidium Tuckeri has been proved to be our very common Erisyphe
communis, and the Potato fungus traced to Solanum Dulcamara. The
worst part of the matter is that Bacterium Halstedi thrives under the
same conditions as the useful bacteria do potentially in behoof of
the cultivator ; but in the present state of our knowledge of these
micro-organisms it is hardly possible to arrive at any satisfactory
deduction, nevertheless the malignant forms are certainly as food-
requiring as the useful, and it may safely be conceded that they are
incapable of manufacturing that upon which they subsist, for all life
is dependant upon that of another, or all life is parasitic, each and
all doing its best to maintain place in the “ struggle for existence.”

“ Hygienist ” attributes fungal diseases to wet and bacterial
attacks to drought, and from a hygienic standpoint considers all to
be due to some predisposing causes. Hygienists are all very well
upon general grounds, but when anything special or particular occurs
no one thinks of appealing to them, but wisely seeks aid from duly
qualified specialists, and we may take it for granted that every culti¬
vator of Tomatoes knows what suits his cultures. If we raise a
number of plants from seed there is a difference in the individuals,
both as regards health and fruitfulness, yet all are treated precisely
alike. What is the predisposing cause ? Why is one strong and
the other weak ? Predisposing cause forsooth ! heterodoxy, any and
everything intangible, immaterial, may or may not exist, always
subject of argument ! But Bacterium Halstedi can be seen, examined,
made sure of. It cannot be overlooked, it is past the region of
hypothesis or metaphysical subtlety, is a substantial fact, which all
may comprehend. If water will render it latent, for it can hardly
kill a parasite living in liquid, all the better.

What I, however, particularly desire at the present time is a few
inches of the stem and a similar portion of the root part attached of
a Tomato plant infested with eelworm. If it has growth springing
from the collar all the better, and to satisfy my requirements the
part sent must be alive, for I want to ascertain if the nostrum I wish
to subject it to is as safe to use as it is sure to kill the eelworm. If
the result is satisfactory, anyone may make sure of the recipe by
expending Sjd. in the Journal of Horticulture in which it may
appear. — G. Abbey.

[Any specimens that may arrive at this office for Mr. Abbey will
be forwarded to him.] _

In reply to “Hygienist” on page 325, I should not like to say
hastily that the Tomato disease is absolutely controllable, but I am
convinced it is favoured by too close planting, and too much
moisture both at the roots and in the atmosphere. As preventives,
experience leads me to recommend —

1, Never plant closer than 2 feet between the rows, and 15 to
18 inches in them.

2, If disease appears pull oat the plant first attacked at once.

3, Let a current of air pass right through the house, which will
bring firm and short-jointed wood, so essential to good Tomato
growing. — J. G. Bellinger, Harrogate.

A LARGE HOLLY TREE.

May I venture through your columns to describe a Holly tree
which may be the largest in Great Britain, situated within ten paces of
my house, which is 1040 feet above the sea ?

I have in my possession a report which was made on it in January
1836, and at that time the tree “measured in circumference above the
roots thereof 27 feet G inches, and estimated to be 60 feet in height, and
is very branchy, and the general opinion is that it is 400 years old.”

The circumference of the tree now is 30 feet, and its height 43 feet,
and has sixteen main branches, two measuring in circumference 11 feet
7 inches, and 8 feet 2 inches. It covers a circle, the diameter of which
is 54 feet, and its branches have numerous initials and dates cut on
them, those which can be still deciphered ranging from 1700 to 1864.
The most legible is that of J. Broughton, 22nd August, 1756, which is
almost as clear as the day on which it was cut. Many of the branches
are half eaten through with rot, and I have had all the sixteen supported
by iron rods. The tree still shows great vitality, each year bringing
forth numerous young shoots. It is rather curious that on the opposite
side of the valley is another large Holly tree, which measures 17 feet
Ginches in circumference. — GEO. W. Lloyd-Verney, Colonel, Clochfaen,
Llanidloes, N. Wales.

L.elia grandis tenebrosa.

This is quite distinct from the type, and greatly superior to
the latter. A plant I have in bloom now has flowers 6 inches
across. The sepals and petals are wavy chestnut red, the lip is
rose colour, elegantly fringed, and with darker lines leading to a
blotch of dark rich purple in the throat, a really superb variety.

Cattleya bicolor.

Although this species is not so showy as some others, yet its
distinct appearance should ensure it a place in every collection.
The side lobes of the lip, which in most Caltleyas enfold the
column, are entirely absent in C. bicolor, leaving the column
exposed. The sepals and petals are brown ; the lip is crimson, in
some types with a distinct white margin, in others the colour gets
fainter towards the edge. The flowers are produced on upright
peduncles, which bear from five to twelve blooms each. It is a
Brazilian Orchid, and grows and flowers freely with ordinary care. —
H. R. R.

Orchids at Cliffe House, Hessle.

Whilst paying a hurried visit to Hessle last week I was in¬
vited to see the collection of Orchids in which B. Whitaker, Esq.,
of Cliffe House, is so deeply interested. I found some exceedingly
fine plants of the better species present. Mr. Jarvis first took me
to where two fine specimens of Cattleya Dowiana aurea and Cat¬
tleya chrysotoxa were in full bloom. The blooms were in excel¬
lent condition, very fine and well constituted. Some good flowers
of Laelia purpurata were in the same house. A spike of Oncidium
crispum had sixty-four flower buds on it, looking remarkably fresh.
Several other good plants were in bloom. The Cypripediums, I
thought, were especially healthy, and included Curtisi, Morgania,
grande, Alice, callosum and Chamberlainianum. — W. Clayton.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

October 10th.

Scientific Committee. — Present : Mr. McLachlan (in the chair).
Prof. Church, Dr. Muller, Mr. Blandford, Rev. W. Wilks, Dr. Bonavia,
and Rev. G. Henslow, Hon. Sec.

Peach Disease. — With reference to the diseased Peaches brought to
the last meeting by Dr. Mliller, Mr. G. Massee of Kew reports as
follows : — “ The Peach disease is caused by the fungus Gloeosporium
fructigerum, Berh., or rather by G. lacticolor, Berh., w’hich is in reality
only the former species modified by the host, as proved by cultures.
In America, where the disease is too well known, and has also attacked
Grapes during the last two or three years, it has been found that the
fungus can be kept well under control by two or three sprayings of
potassic sulphide (J oz. to a gallon of water) applied in June or July.
Of course, it is too late to attempt spraying this year, but all diseased
fruit should be removed and destroyed to prevent the diffusion of the
spores.” Dr. Muller observed that he had seen the disease twice soon
after the setting of the fruit. This appeared to be locally arrested in
growth where the fungus occurred, the rest of the Peach growing
normally.

Pyrus japonica Fruiting. — Mr. Blandford exhibited specimens, and
commented on the very large size to which the fruit had attained this
year. They do not appear to be capable of being put to any use
as yet.

Oranges from Australia. — Dr. Bonavia communicated the follow¬
ing remarks on a curious phenomenon connected with Oranges
“ On the 12th July, 1893, a box of Oranges was shipped to me by a
friend in South Australia. It contained four varieties of the so-called
‘ Portugal ’ Orange, viz., the ‘ Navel ’ Orange, a large and a small Blood
Orange, and the Egg Orange. Bach Orange was wrapped in tissue
paper, and the whole were packed tightly in hay. They reached me
after having been about five weeks on the sea in very sound condition,
with the exception of one which was spoilt. Probably this had been
bruised before it was packed.

“ On the voyage the Oranges sweated and the hay became damp, for
when I opened the box a musty smell of damp hay pervaded the whole
box ; and now comes an interesting point.

“ I unpacked all the Oranges and freed them from paper and hay.
They all had a musty smell. I washed some of them and dried them.
Apparently the musty smell was completely removed from the outside ;
but on cutting open the Oranges every one of them had not only a
musty smell in the juice carpels, but also a peculiar musty flavour.

“ It would appear that the mustiness of the damp hay penetrated
through the peel and pervaded the whole interior of the Orange, giving
a peculiar and unpleasant flavour to the juice.

862

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 19, 1893.

“ There was no difference in the four varieties. They were all
equally contaminated by the musty smell and flavour, although other¬
wise quite sound, and when washed the mustiness could not be detected
in the rind.

“ I ate some of them every day, and by keeping the mustiness of the
juice became less, till about the fourth week after unpacking the
mustiness in the juice was scarcely perceptible.

“ All the varieties were rather thick-skinned and were very juicy,
and all kept very well. Probably the soft hay packing may have had
something to do with their not getting bruised on the way. The ‘ Navel ’
Oranges were more juicy than the same variety we get in London from
California.

“ I hardly know how to explain the contamination of the juice by
the musty air in the box. The peel contains a large quantity of essential
oil. This may have absorbed the musty aroma, and then, when saturated,
passed it on to the juice vesicles which also contain a considerable
proportion of essential oil. By keeping and exposure to the air, this
process may have been reversed.”

With regard to the cause of the flavour of the Oranges Prof. Church
explained it by the fermentation of the hay and osmose causing the
scent to enter ; then transpiration would subsequently bring about the
odour externally. It was remarked by Mr. McLachlan that certain
Oranges were eaten green in Java and Ceylon. Dr. Bonavia added that
such became yellow subsequently, though they were edible in the green
state. They have been illustrated by Miss North among her paintings
at Kew.

Pears Diseased. — Messrs. J. Cheal «& Sons forwarded samples of
Pitmastun Duchess Pears affected apparently by a fungus, giving the
fruit a warty appearance. They were referred to Kew for examination.

Salisburia, Diseased. — A branch of this tree was received from South
Dorset, evidently in a very enfeebled condition. It was the general
opinion that the mild, damp, maritime climate of the situation was
unfavourable to it, and the probable cause of its unhealthiness.

Wasps and Pears. — Mr. Blandford observed on the habit of tomtits,
which he had seen pecking holes in Pears, which gave wasps access to
attack the juicy tissues. Application of nicotine to the wound kept
them at bay for six hours. Mr. Henslow added that he had noticed
wasps attacking mealy bugs in a vinery before the Grapes were ripe.
Mr. McLachlan added that he had noticed tomtits attacking Cob Nuts
for the purpose of extracting the grubs within them.

Cypripedinm, Synanthy. — Sir Trevor Lawrence exhibited a plant
having two flowers welded into one. It possessed one lower smaller
sepal, two large ones above, three nearly equal sized petals, two perfect
labella, and two staminodia ; the ovary showed the fusion by a longi¬
tudinal groove.

Rhododendron Hybrid, — Mr. Henslow exhibited a specimen received
from Mr. Veitch, the result of crossing “Lord Wolseley” by the
bigener “ Indico javanicum,” this having been the result of crossing
“Lord Wolseley” with Azalea indica Stella. The flowers were more or
less malformed, having a strong tendency to be polypetalous ; the
stamens were occasionally epipetalous or sub-petaloid. The form of the
flower showed no improvement on that of Indico javanicum, though it
was a little brighter in colour (orange).

Oah Galls. — Some curious many-pointed galls on the acorns of Oaks
at Versailles were sent by Mr. Belt of Ealing. Mr. McLachlan reports
that they are the product of Cynips Calycis, and that this species of
gall has never been found in this country.

Matricaria Cliamomilla Rayless. — Mr. Henslow exhibited specimens
found by road sides in Baling. They appeared to be particularly
abundant last year. Seed obtained failed to germinate in the present
dry season.

The Battersea Park Chrysanthemums.

We are informed that upwards of 4000 persons passed through the
Chrysanthemum house in Battersea Park on Saturday, Sunday, and
Monday last, the number of visitors on Sunday being 3080. The plants are
in admirable condition, and the display is increasing in beauty every day.

Chrysanthemums at Waterlow Park.

The large conservatory and vineries at this park were opened to the
public for two months on Saturday the 14th inst., from ten till four
each day, for the Chrysanthemum Show. There are over 2000 plants
coming in flower, and these will make a better display than last year.
There is also a collection of other flowering plants.

Crystal Palace Show.

The Chrysanthemum Exhibition at the Crystal Palace this year will
take place on November 3rd and 4th. Cut blooms, as usual, will form
a feature, the principal class being for “ forty-eight blooms, twenty-four
Japanese and twenty-four incurved, in not less than eighteen varieties
of each or more than two of one variety.” The prizes offered are good,
those in the class mentioned being £10, £7, £5, and £3, which should
bring forth a keen competition. Mr. W.G. Head, Superintendent, Garden
Department, Crystal Palace, S.E., will supply schedules and entry forms.

West of Encland Chrysanthemum Society.

As announced in' our advertisement columns the annual Exhibition
of this Society will be held in the Guildhall, Plymouth, on November
14th and 15th. A comprehensive schedule has been prepared and
liberal prizes are offered. The leading class is for forty-eight blooms,
to consist of twenty-four Japanese and a similar number of Incurved
in not less than eighteen varieties of each, the five prizes being
£15, £10, £5, £2 and £1 respectively. Messrs. Wilson and Damerell,
4, North Hill, Plymouth, are the Honorary Secretaries.

Charles Davis.

Lovers of Chrysanthemums generally, and especially cultivators of
cut blooms for exhibition, are no doubt anxiously looking forward for
the first appearance or report of this novelty. To many it is known that
it is a yellow sport from that deservedly popular Japanese Chrys¬
anthemum Viviand Morel.

I lately saw the variety under notice in bloom in the nursery of Mr. J.
Agate, Havant, and have no hesitation in saying that it quite comes up
to expectation. Like all sports it retains the habit of its parent, and
splendid flowers are produced on plants 3 feet high. The first buds
produce blooms pale primrose in colour decidedly pleasing. The blooms
from the second buds are deep yellow in the centre, fading with age to
a lighter tint towards the extremity of the petals, having here and there
a tinge of colour. The later blooms develop as the published description
gives them — canary yellow, beautifully tinted rosy bronze. The blooms
upon Mr. Agate’s plants measured 8 inches in diameter, and gave promise
of proportionate depth. — E. Molyneux.

National Chrysakthemum Society.

We are requested by the Honorary Secretary to state that on the
occasion of the great Exhibition at the Royal Aquarium on Nov. 7th,
8th, and 9 th, the flowers competing in class 27 of the amateurs’ division
will be considered when the special medals are awarded. This class was
unfortunately omitted from those mentioned on page 64 of the schedule
of prizes. Also that the awards in class 48, being special prizes offered
by Mr. E. C. Jukes, will be the silver-gilt, silver, and bronze medals of
the Society. The Floral Committee will meet on the second day of the
Show, Wednesday, November 8th, at two o’clock, and not on the first
day as heretofore.

Certificated Chrysanthemums.

The following new Chrysanthemums were awarded first-class certi¬
ficates at the Floral Committee meeting at the Aquarium on the
11th inst. : —

Charles Davis (Mr. H. J. Jones). — A deep bronzy yellow sport from
the well-known Japanese variety Viviand Morel.

Eda Prass (Mr. Godfrey). — An American seedling of the Japanese
type ; colour, soft salmon rose.

Madame Edouard Rey (Mr. B. Beckett). — A large Japanese incurved
flower, light purple amaranth, with rosy reverse.

Louise (Mr. N. Davis). — A fine large white Japanese incurved variety,
with deeply grooved florets, tinted blush.

Mdlle. Therese Rey (Mr. H. Shoesmith). — A large Japanese, with
long drooping florets. This and the two preceding were raised by Mr.
Ernest Cal vat.

Edith Rowbottom (Mr. E. Rowbottom). — A Japanese bloom, colour
lilac amaranth, petals rather narrow ; a seedling raised by the
exhibitor.

Among other interesting flowers, of which more may be heard later
on, were L’Ami Etienne, Vice-President Jules Barigny, Lizzie Seward,
Violetta, Mrs. P. Blair, and G. W. Childs.

Chrysanthemums Around Liverpool.

Once more the season is at hand when notes relating to Chrys¬
anthemums are of special interest. On all sides the opinion expressed is
that the early blooms will be somewhat coarse, yet, notwithstanding, a
very fine display is anticipated. To Liverpool people the great event of
the forthcoming Show is the prize given by Messrs. R. P. Ker & Sons
for twelve incurved, twelve Japanese, and twelve reflexed blooms.
The prize consists of a magnificent challenge vase, value 20 guineas,
with 10 guineas in cash each year until finally won, to be won twice
consecutively or three times in all, open to growers within twelve miles
radius of the Liverpool Exchange. In 1891 it was won by the late
Mr. A. R. Cox, and last year by Mr. Jellicoe, gardener to F. H. Gossage,
Esq., who will do his utmost to secure the trophy this year. Another
event is at the neighbouring Grassendale Show, where Mr. Donald
Forbes, gardener to Alfred Holt, Esq., Crofton, Aigburth, the winner of
the 10 guinea cup presented by A. L. Jones, Esq., and also last year’s
winner of the 10 guinea prize at Liverpool, means to make a bold bid
for the retention of the cup as his own property. As in former years I
can only note the more important of the growers, at the same time
bearing in mind the fact that good work is being done by smaller
growers, although not figuring on the exhibition boards. The remainder
of my notes will be completed next week.

Lingdale Lodge, Oxton, Cheshire.

A GENUINE lover of the Chrysanthemum was the late Mr. George
Cockburn, who has passed away since my notes of last season, but it is
gratifying to find that their cultivation is being continued by the family,
who all share the same interest. Mr. George Burden, now well known,
has this season 400 plants, his Japanese varieties being very good. The
most noticeable are W. H. Lincoln, Puritan, Stanstead White, Mrs. F.
Jameson, Btoile de Lyon, Viviand Morel, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Mons.

■October 19, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDEN EH

853

Bernard, Mrs. Wheeler, Edwin Molyneux, G. C. Scwabe, Sunflower, Mrs.
Irving Clarke, W. Tricker, and Avalanche. Of newer kinds the most
promising are Beauty of Exmouth, Lord Brooke, William Shrimpton, and
Princess May. Amongst incurved the Queen family is represented by
fine plants and stout foliage, but Mr. Burden is afraid that the buds are
not so kind in opening as in other seasons, but he will have fine blooms
nevertheless. Princess of Wales, Mrs. Heale, and their sports are fine,
as are also Prince Alfred, Lord Wolseley, John Salter, Jeanne d’Arc,
Refulgence, and Lady Harding. Of the newer kinds Mons. R. Bahuant
is grand, but inclined to be early, whilst Madame Harrier is superb.

Boscobel, Noctoeum, Cheshire,

The residence of C. J. Proctor, Esq., the esteemed President of the
Birkenhead Chrysanthemum Society, is well worthy of mention, by
reason of the excellent blooms which Mr. J. Williams, Mr, Proctor’s
gardener, exhibited last season. They grow over 200 plants which are
this season most promising. The best of the Japanese are W. H. Lincoln,
Stanstead White, Mrs. F. Jameson, Etoile de Lyon, Vi viand Morel,
Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Mons. Bernard, Avalanche, Mrs. Wheeler, W. Tricker,
Sunflower, G. C. Scwabe, and E. Molyneux, The incurved are very fine,
and particular mention should be made of Princess of Wales types and
those sometimes “ miffy ” ones, John Salter and Refulgence, Madame
Harrier is excellent.

Ceofton, Aigbueth.

Here Mr. Honald Forbes has some grand plants, fully equal to
former years. The fine summer seems to have suited especially such kinds
as E. Molyneux, Mrs. C. Wheeler, Beauty of Castlewood, G, C. Schwabe,
W. Tricker, Mrs. F, Jameson, Viviand Morel, Gloire du Rocher, Colonel
W. B. Smith, W. H, Lincoln, Avalanche, W. Lane, Aida, Coronet,
Mdlle. Marie Hoste, and Stanstead White. Of newer kinds, those
which at present stand out prominently are Wm. Seward, Horothy
Shea, Mrs. C. Harman Payne, Mrs. E. H. Adams, L’Ami Etienne, Chas.
Bavis, Brookleigh Gem, Lucy Kendal, Henry Perkins, and Baron Hirsch.
The Queen and Princess types are most promising. The open weather
has been most favourable since the plants were housed, and should it
continue the prospect is good for our early Show.

Aigbueth Hall,

The residence of Mrs. Arthur Cooke, is a fresh addition to these
notes, but as the gardens are presided over by Mr. Charles Osborne, who
made his name famous when at Aymestrey Court, Woolton, all readers
will be glad to hear something of his doings in his new charge. Though
rather late on entering his duties here, he has a good collection of fine
healthy plants, the best Japanese being Bouquet de Bame, Anna Hartz-
horn, two varieties ; Sunflower, E. Molyneux, W. Tricker, Puritan, Stan-
stead White, Boule d’Or, W. W. Coles, and Mrs. F. Jameson. These are
excellent, and rightly timed. Newer varieties very good in bud are
R. C. Kingston, Florence Bavis, Col. Smith, and W. Lane. Of incurved,
the Queen family on early buds are inclined to be rough. Plants
stopped the first week in June are very promising. All the Princess
family are just unfolding ; these were stopped the second week in June.
Mons. R. Bahuant is very fine, and Lord Wolseley and Madame Carrier,
as elsewhere, are excellent. Viviand Morel on the early bud is exactly
similar to Meg Merrilies without a tinge of pink in it.

About fifty plants in 6-inch pots for conservatory decoration are
worth mentioning. The main plants were run on to four shoots after
the break, and the second week in July one top shoot was taken from
each plant, placed in thumb pots and put under handlights in the
greenhouse. As soon as rooted they were transferred to 6-inch pots.
Now they are from 3 to 22 inches high, with grand buds and every
promise of proving a welcome change from all those grown on the
orthodox system.

Clevelby, Allerton.

Never on any previous occasion has Mr. Cromwell had such a
promise of fine flowers, the 700 plants being perfect. The Princess
family have fine shapely buds. Those of the Queen types, which are
excellent, are Queen of England, Mrs. Robinson King, Lord Alcester,
Empress of India and others. The Japanese are very good, and the
following are now developing into substantial blooms, viz.. Beauty of
Castlewood, W. Tricker, Florence Bavis, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Sunflower,
Viviand Morel, Stanstead White, Mrs. F. Jameson and others. Of the
newer ones, Wm. Seward is very fine, and we must bid adieu to Jeanne
Belaux to make way for the new comer, which besides its colour, has
such a robust constitution. G. W. Child, John Shrimpton and Colonel
W. B. Smith are developing into fine flowers. Baron Hirsch is very
promising as a new incurved, and one of the best of its colour.

To the above I may append a note which should not be overlooked
by gardeners who grow Chrysanthemums for decoration as to the
usefulness at the present time of the three varieties — Bouquet de Came,
Mons. Wm. Holmes and Gorgeous, white, red and yellow, which flowers
in advance of the general collection. The corridor at Cleveley at the
present time contains 120 plants of these varieties, each plant carrying
three fully developed blooms, and I need hardly say that the effect is
grand. — R. P. R.

LESSONS OF THE DRY SEASON.

[Read by Mr. George Bunyard at the last meeting of the Horticultural Club.]
The year 1893 will stand out in the memories of all connected with
gardening and agriculture as an unprecedented one, the absence of
rain for such long periods and the extreme heat having in some cases
had disastrous effects alike on garden, arable field, and pasture. In

opening a discussion on this question one is struck by the many-sided
phases of the subject, and it will be only possible to take up that
embraced by the word Horticulture. Starting in February, we had a
month of almost continued wet. The land was happily saturated, and
lucky were those whose soil permitted them to get in the main garden
crops early while the moisture was able to assist germination. In the
vegetable garden the crops most affected were Peas, Broad Beans, Beet,
Turnips, and Onions. Some of the seeds of these never germinated, and
until the May rains came there seemed little chance of crop, but when the
plants began to grow they made quick progress, and from the evidence
of many vegetable shows most excellent examples were produced.

Never has there been a year in which the cultivators have so beaten
the mere “ growers,” for where deep cultivation and frequent loosening
of the surface soil by hoeing was carried out the crops did not suffer to
the same extent as where the land was left alone ; and on the farm it
was the same, grand crops being secured where high-class farming was
carried out.

Naturally the vegetables liking warmth, or native to warmer climes,
have done well. Tomatoes ripening thoroughly outside ; Bwarf French
Beans grew rapidly, but soon became too old for the kitchen ; Runners
grew, but the blossom fell off wholesale, and there was one crop near
the ground and another at the top. Marrows grew finely where they
had any food to live on, but outdoor Cucumbers were nil. At one time ic
looked as if Winter Greens and Sprouts would be altogether lost, but
they have pulled round. These results emphasise the fact that all the hard
work of a kitchen garden should be done in the winter — i.e., trenching,
manuring, and preparation of the seed beds. So far for vegetables.

In the fruit crops the summer has done wonders. Starting with
Strawberries, where these were planted on deeply trenched and enriched
land they gave splendid results, and many second-rated kinds came to
best quality, as Noble, Competitor, John Ruskin, and others. The
Queen race did not do so well, the late ones were unable to hold out till
the crop set. Strawberries from Hampshire were in the London
markets on the 4th May, and extraordinary prices ruled for the early
pickings. Paxtons made 10s. 6d. per gallon. The lesson we have in these
useful fruits is evident where growers had left beds over two years old.
They failed to get a crop worth the trouble of picking, and it was the
same in gardens. I am more than ever convinced that two years is the
full limit of a paying Strawberry crop. We have had several pounds of
fruit in October from Vicomtesse H^ricart de Thury, Gooseberry and
Currant crops were in many cases quite dried up, and in July put on
their September garb, but what fruit was saved was of fine flavour ; and
Raspberries were almost a failure. These again are left too long on the
same land. If planted on well prepared ground and thoroughly surface
dug they will last good for six years, but new beds are better then made,
and the manure should be put on the surface.

As may be supposed, extra fine Peaches and Nectarines have been
grown on open walls this year where care has been taken to water
the trees freely and to keep them syringed. Apricots have borne the
best crop for many years, and no doubt the well ripened wood in these
stone fruits will remain a witness to the grand time they have had.
Nectarines from their more tender skins were sadly spoiled and
shrivelled by the scorching sun, and the lesson we may learn from this
is that they will in such times pay for a partial shade, and more foliage
should be left on them than we usually leave on Peaches. The flavour
of both has been exceptionally fine, and the crop from two to four
weeks earlier than usual where these fruits were grown in an orchard
house. They have needed great care, and some shade was necessary to
reduce the excessive evaporation.

Pears were literally scorched off the trees by the heat and sun in
April. The few remaining on some trees naturally came to an abnormal
size, and the fruit shows have given us notable and record examples.
On walls the crop has been good generally except where very hot, as
stated above. We had a long line of cordons quite fruitless because we
put them on a tarred fence and omitted to whiten it over. Many kinds
which only come to perfection in such seasons as the past have been
extra fine and clear in the skin, I allude to such as Glou Mor^eau,
Bergamotte Esperen, Easter Beurr6, Madame Millet, Beurr^ Ranee,
Chaumontel, Bachesse d’Angouleme, Beurrd d’Anjou, being grand in
size and without a crack or spot. The palpable lesson here is that we
ought to place all such good, but “ difficult-to-grow ” sorts, on south or
south-west walls, where they would in many cases do better than
Peaches and Nectarines, especially in those old gardens where the nail-
holes in walls form a happy hunting ground for aphides, red spider, and
that evil family. Many sorts have taken on grand co’our, and the open
cordon Williams’ Bon Chretien have been equal to the imported fruit in
point of colour and clearness of skin. Never before have we seen such
grand crops of this Pear on standards, in which form many others
came large and fine in colour and quality. I anticipate the late and
fine sorts, such as Beurre Ranee. Boyennd d’Alen^on, Buchesse de Bor¬
deaux, and Olivier des Serres, will, beyond the above, be of fine quality,
while healthy wood fully ripened will, in a great measure, prevent canker.
Pears, usually ranked second-rate, has been grand; General Todtleben,
Beurrd Clairgeau, and Grosse Calebasse quite fine.

Apples, the great Biitish crop, have been a grand exhibition. All
kinds have developed not only size but splendiil colour and clear
skin. There is only one that has failed to reach its maximum — i e.,
Ecklinville. It may be that it misses the frequent showers of its native
Emerald Isle. Calviile Blanc, Rvinette de Caux, and even Newtown
Pippin have been quite good outside, and no kind has shown any spot or
crack where cultivation has been carried out liberally. The so-called
growers of fruit in neglected orc’uards have had a reverse, which it is

854

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 19, 1893.

hoped will open their eyes to see that unless they thin out their trees
and give them some root assistance by liquid manure or mulching,
they can never get a profitable crop in face of the fine examples now put
on our market from well-managed trees on cultivated land. More and
more it is evident that if fruit culture in this land is to succeed we
must bring into it all the gardener’s thought, care, and attention. In
passing, a word as to the marvellous colour in Apples this season. A
preacher said recently, that after he had seen the vineyards of the south,
and the flowers and fruits of that region, he should readily give the
palm to an Apple orchard in its wreath of September coloured fruit.
The Winter Queenings, Colonel Vaughan, and others were scarlet in
colour. As an expert I have fruit sent from all parts for naming, and it
has been a “ lesson of the season” to see the same kinds from different
people, in some cases four times as large as that from trees not properly
cared for.

I am of opinion that we should grow some of our Apples on walls,
the beauty of the fruit and the fulness of flavour then obtained seems
to indicate they ought to have some such warm position. Calville
Rouge, Sturmer Pippin, Washington, and other fruits, which have not
always time to finish in our short summers, are very fine this year.
Many kinds have been so large as to suggest a doubt as to their
authenticity, Kerry Pippin, several Pearmains, Duchess of Oldenburg,
being twice or three times their usual size ; other Apples passing as
kitchen sorts are sweet table fruit. I am inclined to think the far
travelling and deep rooting nature of the Apple has been much in their
favour. Canker in such sorts as Lord Suffield has been quite wanting,
and the trees are wonderfully strengthened for future crops by an
abundance of hard well ripened wood. It is remarkable that the surface
rooting Paradise stock has given such fine fruit in a dry season, as even
where mulehed early there has not been rain enough to set free the
stimulating properties of the material used.

I anticipate in lifting time we shall find they have made more tap
roots than usual. Where land is full, of porous and water-absorbing stones
the drought has been little apparent, and it may be well to add this to
our other lessons, and introduce stone of the nature of our Kentish
surface ragstone where these do not exist on one of the most stony spots
in our nurseries. The maiden Apples are grand and sturdy, and close
to 6 feet tall. On flinty or gravelly lands they have suffered severely.
Naturally, as a pomologist, I dwell much on this subject ; but I trust
not more than its importance deserves. It is quite evident we try to
grow many sorts of fruits which our capricious climate does not as a
general rule suit, and from the knowledge thus gained we may learn
much. Where the land has been kept clean by constant moving of the
surface soil no doubt a store of good has been laid up for many years to
come, and as far as fruit is concerned I look upon the Indian summer
just passed as an untold blessing.

Passing now to the flower garden, what a trying time we have had 1
Herbaceous plants completely dried up, with us no flower on Pfeonies or
the tall growing Campanulas, Alpines gone never to return, Roses over
in a “ flash in the pan,” and only here and there in the season a glimpse
of what they might have been, until the autumn when they have, so to
speak, made up for lost time, and given us a grand display. The Teas
have naturally done best, and those who have cultivated deeply will
have reaped a reward ; but most will have, like myself, to find comfort
in the fact that if the trees have made little wood that it is well ripened,
and may resist a strong frost successfully. The worshippers (and they
increase fast) of the Daffodils have been seriously curtailed in their
devotions, for the flowers literally rushed out and then withered, several
not even showing their beauty. Possibly they look to more highly
developed bulbs for a grand display in 1891.

Bedding out was a serious matter, yet the display has been bright,
because there has been an absence of coarse leafage, telling us to keep
these beds a little less rich. Begonias with me have failed when they
did show flower ; a gale generally scattered the half-opened blossoms,
and never have the beds been gay. They seem to like a partial shade ;
in this position I have seen good beds. Cactus Dahlias have been extra
fine, and the Pompons very chaste. A dry time evidently suits these ;
it says we should start them early and grow into size, so as to make
the most of our summer. I must not touch Lilies, Chrysanthemums,
and the like.

I now pass to Conifers and forest trees. The early leafage of these
was grand, and seldom was it seen to such advantage. Many trees have,
however, died outright from want of food, and here we may learn to
persevere in Philip Frost’s system of surface feeding for choice examples.
Flowering shrubs have been very short-lived, and Lilacs were burnt up
while half opened ; on the other hand, the double kinds were grand.
I would here put in a plea for all these striking shrubs, and ask if we
treat them fairly by relegating flowering shrubs to crowded shrubberies
and plantations. How seldom we see a fully developed example of any
of them on our lawns, and when we do, how grand is their proportions,
and what a glorious sight they are in flower 1 I refer to such as Guelder
Roses, Lilacs, Syringas, and the Sumach. I have not alluded to the trying
time for plants under glass demanding extra care on the gardener’s
part. It is, however, evident that the lesson here is — provide more
shading that can be used at short notice, and remedy defects in the
want of more ample ventilation.

The utmost care has had to be exorcised in keeping down aphides,
and all garden pests and wasps have never before been so numerous.
Lay in a store of materials ready to begin battle should they appear
in 1894. I have wandered in my subject, and have rather outlined a
map, and will leave others to fill in the details and point out the
omissions and defects of my paper.

Eveitts of the Week. — But few events of horticultural interest
will take place in the metropolis during the ensuing week. The Com¬
mittees of the Royal Horticultural Society will meet at the Drill Hall,
James Street, Westminster, S.W., on Tuesday, the 24th inst., when, as-
mentioned elsewhere, a special display of vegetables and fruit is antici¬
pated. A meeting of the Floral Committee of the National Chrys¬
anthemum Society will take place at the Royal Aquarium, Westminster,
on Wednesday, the 25th inst.

- The Weather in London. — As mentioned in another para¬
graph, the weather has been unusually mild in the metropolis during^
the past week. Much rain has also fallen at intervals. Sunday proved
fine, as likewise did Monday, but it rained more or less all Tuesday..
Wednesday opened fine and bright, similar weather continuing at the
time of going to press.

- Royal Horticultural Society. — The next meeting will be

held on Tuesday, October 24th, in the Drill Hall, James Street, Victoria
Street, Westminster. The Council of the Society have offered special
prizes for Apples and Pears grown in the open air, and also for Grapes.
At 3 P.M. Mr. A. Dean, F.R.H.S., will deliver a lecture on the
cultivation of Onions, examples of which would be welcomed at the
meeting.

- Death op Mr. H. B. 0. Beale. — We regret to hear of the

death, on the 12th inst., of Mr. Herbert Edward Child Beale, eldest
son of Mr. E. J. Beale, of the firm of Messrs. J. Carter & Co., High
Hoi born. The deceased, who was a very amiable and promising young
gentleman about thirty years of age, was educated at King’s College,,
and then took a prominent position at Hoi born, but his health broke
down, and we understand he has spent most of the last two or three
years in California, Jersey, and the south of France.

- Horticultural Literature. — A gold medal and 10,000

FRANCS (£400) prize. At a meeting of the National Society of Horti¬
culture of France on the 10th of August, 1893, the President called
attention to the paper of M. Charles Baltet on the Comparative Study
of French and of Foreign Horticulture. The subject was one of sis
which had been proposed for treatment at the Horticultural Congress
in May, 1893, and for it M. Baltet had been awarded the gold medal
which the National Society of Horticulture had placed at the disposal
of the Congress. Also that in consideration of the same work the
National Society of Horticulture had seen fit to award to M. Charles
Baltet the prize of 10,000 francs bequeathed by the late Dr. Joubert de
I’Hyberderie for the purpose of encouraging literature conducing to the
advancement of horticulture. We are informed that this is the most
distinguished honour of its kind hitherto conferred in France, and con¬
gratulate the distinguished pomologist on its acquisition.

- The Fruiterbrs’ Company. — A dinner was given on

Wednesday evening the 11th inst., at the Mansion House, by the Lord
Mayor and the Lady Mayoress, “ to meet the court of the Fruiterers’
Company.” It was preceded by the presentation by the Company, in
accordance with ancient annual custom, of a choice collection of
English-grown fruit, the ceremony taking place in the drawing-room.
After dinner the Dean of Rochester (chaplain to the Fruiterers’
Company), in proposing the health of the Lord Mayor and Lady
Mayoress, remarked that there were times when fruit had become a
most important factor in the prosperity of the country. As regarded
the owners, the occupiers, and the labourers on the soil, he regretted to
say that there was most profound ignorance with respect to fruit, in
connection with which he thought we had rather retrograded than
progressed. Leaving out Herefordshire, Worcester, and Devon, the
orchards of England were generally a disgrace, hut there was really a
grand future open for fruit. The farmer had been standing still,
while the manufacturer had been making immense progress. Every
landlord ought to try and get his tenant to make a profit from all
sources on his farm. There were great possibilities in the advancement
of the culture of fruit, and he was proud to belong to a society which
had done much in this direction.

October 19, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

855

- Death of Mr. W. Y. Draper. — We regret to hear of the

death, on the 7th inst., at 14, Addison Crescent, Kensington, aged sixty,
of Mr. William Yates Draper, the head of the firm of Messrs. J. W.
Draper & Son, the well-known salesmen of Covent Garden. The funeral
took place at Brompton Cemetery on the 11th inst,

- WooLTOK Gardeners’ Mutual Improvement Society. —

The concert in aid of the Library and Gardeners’ Benevolent Institu¬
tion which had been promoted by members of the above Society was held
last Thursday, and was a great success artistically, and it is to be hoped
financially. The gardeners decorated the room in a manner worthy of
all praise. The chair was occupied by Holbrook Gaskell, Esq., J.P.,
Woolton Wood, who made a few appropriate remarks during the interval.

- A New Solanageous Plant.— It is stated that M. de St.

Quentin, in the course of a voyage of exploration in Uruguay, has dis¬
covered upon the banks of several rivers a Solanaceous plant giving
edible tubers in abundance, analogous to those of the Potato. Accord¬
ing to the Illiostration Horticole, the Horticultural Society of Marseilles
has decided to offer a gold medal to the importer who shall introduce
this new plant into Europe in a living state. Another gold medal will
be decreed to him who shall obtain the first return or produce of the
new plant in question.

- Ripe Strawberries in October. — Mr, G. Freeman, Akeley

Wood, Buckingham, writes — “In last week’s issue (page 333) your
correspondent Mr. Garner gives an instance of having gathered a dish
of ripe Raspberries on the 4th inst. On going over my Strawberry plot
on the 9th inst. I discovered several clusters of fruit, some of the berries
showing colour ; trusses of flowers are also noticeable. The Strawberries
were produced by plants that have already fruited in the open, and
not by those that have been forced and planted out. It would be
interesting to learn if other gardeners have experienced similar results.”

- Mild October Weather, — A great rise of temperature

was experienced over our islands on Friday last, and the following two
days the air has been singularly mild and humid. On Saturday the
shade temperature rose to between 60° and 65° in most parts of England,
and in the course of that night scarcely any change took place, the
minimum readings being in many cases as high as 58° and 59°. In
London, where the thermometer did not sink below 58°, the night was,
with one exception, the warmest experienced in the month of October
for more than twenty years past. The only warmer night was in 1876,
when the minimum on the 9th was as high as 61°. On Saturday last
the maximum day and the minimum night temperature were identical —
57° in Battersea Park, a circumstance that has not been previously
observed by Mr. Coppin, the Superintendent.

- OSTROWSKIA MAGNIFICA. — Apropos of the remarks of Mr.

S. Arnott (page 282) regarding this plant the following, written by a
correspondent in “Garden and Forest,” may interest readers. “Herr
Max Leichtlin states that this plant was flowered at Baden-Baden in
1877, where it is as hardy as a weed. It prefers a sandy, deeply worked
soil, as it has thick brittle roots some 2 feet long. It was first dis¬
covered by Dr. A. Regel in Eastern Bokhara, and described in 1884. My
plant has passed two winters safely, and has not appeared above ground
until all dangers from spring frosts are over. It is four years old, now
flowering for the first time. As it dies down to the roots soon after
flowering it should have a position where it is not likely to be disturbed
by careless digging, for though it is propagated by division of the roots
it is not a plant which should be disturbed. My plant is in a position
where it receives litttle moisture in late summer, but I do not know that
this precaution is necessary.”

- Large Soft Apples. — Having one of the best private

collections of Apples nearly all on bush trees, at Maiden Erleigh, the
samples cannot be excelled anywhere on trees of similar growth,
Mr. Turton is in a good position to judge of the keeping merits of the
diverse sorts this season, and he told me the other day when looking
through his fruit room that all the large samples were keeping badly,
and would soon be over. Thus it would seem that having had one of
the finest Apple seasons of the century (Pears included) we should have
to pay the penalty of finding all our largest fruits to be very fugitive in
quality. This bears out what I have learnt in other directions. One
famous Pear grower told me that he had found very fine Pitmaston
Duchess Pears to waste 5 ozs. weight in a fortnight. Practically
these large fruits are some 60 per cent, of water. That is what so
rapidly wastes. Solid fleshed Apples, especially the small firm section,
will keep very well. So also will Pears, but generally we shall see all
varieties spoiling earlier than usual. — A.

- Vegetables at the Drill Hall. — Hardy fruit having

had such a good innings at the late meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society, we are pleased to learn that on Tuesday next vegetables are
expected to be seen in fine form. Amongst others Messrs. Sutton and
Sons will, we learn, exhibit a very large collection of Onions and other
roots, and other kinds of interest. Vegetables are seen too seldom at
these meetings, but few exhibits create more interest, or are of greater
usefulness.

- Belladonna Lily. — The bed of the above Lily mentioned in

the description of Grimston Park, Tadcaster, a short time ago (^viile
Journal of Horticulture, July 20th) was, when I visited that place a
little over a week since, in the height of its beauty. This bed is 35 yards
long by 18 inches wide, faces the south, and is backed by the plant
stoves and fernery. I counted 375 spikes, all in bloom, some with five,
and one or two with six flowers on a spike. Only those who have seen
such a sight can realise the grandeur of this flower, which, having no
foliage as a background, has to rely entirely upon its own natural
beauty to prove its claim to a place in gardens. — W. Clayton.

- Runner Beans at Maiden Erleigh. — Calling upon Mr.

Turton at these gardens the other day, I could but notice in walking
round the truly wonderful crop of long handsome pods he had hanging
upon very tall lines of Runner Beans in two diverse gardens. Asking if
they were novelties, 1 was told that whilst one variety was Sutton’s Selected
Scarlet Runner, certainly a splendid selection, the other was Sutton’s
Prizewinner. Mr. Turton said, “ We have had a wonderful crop, having
been gathering by bushels, and of either it would be difficult to find a
handsomer, cleaner sample.” The Prizewinner had been sown at the
usual time, middle of April, being employed to enclose an area usually
occupied with hardwooded plants in the summer, and had gone up
12 feet in height. The others had been sown a month later, and of the
two were then the heavier cropped. Still on October 14th there were
very heavy crops hanging on the row sown just six months pre¬
viously. — A.

- CovENT Garden Supplies. — The exceptional summer we

have been getting seems to have had hardly so great an influence on
Covent Garden supplies as might have been expected. Through the
drought supplies of green stuff fell off enormously so far as our own
market gardens within a short distance of London were concerned.
The Superintendent of Covent Garden tells us (“ Daily News”) it
frequently happened that the supplies from the grounds around London
were fifty waggon-loads short of what they would have been with a
normal amount of rain. But the falling-off in Fulham and Kent was
to a large extent compensated for by an inflow from the Fens and from
Yorkshire. The recent rains have, of course, rapidly brought on crops nearer
home. The effect of this was manifest in last Saturday’s market, and
prices will soon drop to a point at which it will no longer pay to send
produce to London all the way from Yorkshire.

- Very large consignments of Apples have come to London

from our own orchards this autumn, and foreign supplies have been
quite out of it. In scarce years we get large consignments of Apples from
Germany, Belgium, Holland, and Denmark, as well as France. French
growers send us some very fine fruit, and we can always do with some
of their Apples ; but the other countries named grow chiefly very
inferior fruit, and have no chance at all when our own orchards are
fairly fruitful. We are getting some from France, but Worcestershire
and Devonshire growers have of late years recognised the importance
of growing only the finest kinds, and they are able to hold their own
against all comers, and this year their consignments are very fine indeed.
We obtain our late supplies from America ordinarily, and many
Apples of very fine quality have been coming to us from Australia.
Both have imported some of our best kinds, and have been successful in
their cultivation, but English growers who have been careful and enter¬
prising are now holding their own against all comers.

- The wisdom of the Bengal Peasant Cultivators finds

expression in proverbs, of which a collection has been made by a Babu
in the Agricultural Department of that province. His appreciation of
the outwardly revered Brahmin betrays itself incidentally in the maxim,
“ Rain and inundation disappear when south winds blow, like the
Brahman as soon as he has received his fee.” Other Bengal rural
aphorisms are : “ Have the land which receives the washings of the
village, and the bullock which walks fast, and marry the girl whose
mother is good.” “ He who works in the field himself with the labourers
gets the full profit ; he who, being unable to work himself, supervises
the workings of the labourers, gets half the profit ; he who orders the
labourers from his house does not get enough to eat.”

866

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 19, 1893.

- Gardening Appointments. — Mr. J. Brooks, for over four

years foreman in the gardens, Cringle House, Cheadle, Cheshire, has been
appointed gardener to J. Johnson Houghton, Esq., Westwood, Neston,
Chester. Mr. G. Stones, for the past two years with T. D. Grimke-
Drayton, Esq., Golborne Park, Newton-le-Willows, as head gardener
to R. Hey wood Thompson, Esq., Nun wick Hall, Penrith, Cumberland.

- Exhibition at Lyons. — We are informed that arrangements

have been made to hold a universal, international, and colonial Exhi¬
bition at Lyons in 1894, and to include a section devoted to horticulture.
There will be a permanent horticultural Exhibition open from April to
October, divided into sections, including exhibits relating to all branches
of horticulture, arboriculture, and market gardening, as well as various
temporary shows, which are to be held every month, and to last for a
week. Applications for space in the horticultural section should be
directed to M. J. Claret, Palais Saint Pierre.

- Stray Tomatoes. — Many thousands of Tomato plants are

growing on the extensive sewerage farm at Beaumont Lees belonging to
the Leicester Corporation. They appear to attain the greatest vigour on
the one-year-old sediment, which is pumped from the tanks into large
beds surrounded with turf tanks, in which the sediment ^is about
2 feet in depth. There is no doubt these plants would have ripened
very fair crops this season if they had been thinned in good time, as
is proved by many isolated plants which have done so. Seeds of Apples,
Pears, Oranges, Grapes, and a host of exotic Grasses and other plants,
also germinate and flourish for the time being, especially in the neigh¬
bourhood of the tanks, with great vigour. Many fields of Rye Grass
have yielded four full crops this season on this sewerage farm. —
J. H. W.

- Hybridisation and Cross-Fertilisation. — This was the

subject of a lecture given by Mr. C. E. Pearson of Chilwell Nurseries,
Nottingham, at a meeting of the Wakefield Paxton Society on the
7th inst. Mr. Pearson spoke for about an hour, and his practical and
valuable observations were listened to with the closest attention. At
the outset he particularly impressed upon his hearers who desired to
hybridise and cross-fertilise plants, the great importance of selecting
good parents for their stock. Speaking as one who had been exten¬
sively engaged in the work for twenty years, he explained the most
successful mode of fertilising Zonal Pelargoniums, Primulas, Begonias,
Chrysanthemums, and other flowering plants, and also fruits, more
particularly Grapes. He recommended that plants which were being
experimented upon should be isolated from other plants, and the
hybridiser must not be a lazy person, but should be in operation at an
early hour in the morning. If they intended to be successful they must
also be methodical, and take notes and keep records just the same as is
done by breeders of horses and shorthorns. In concluding his excellent
lecture, Mr, Pearson referred to the pride and pleasure it afforded a
fertiliser to raise any new plant, flower, or fruit, and said that the
names of such men were never forgotten.

- Horticultural Club. — The first dinner and conversazione

for the session of 1893-94 took place on Tuesday in last week. There
was a good attendance, although several members of the Club were
engaged at the United Horticultural Benefit and Provident Society’s
dinner at the Cannon Street Hotel. There were present the Rev. W,
Wilks, Rev. F. H. Gall, Messrs. John Lee, J. S. Cousens, Geo. Monro,
J. Webber, W. Assbee, A. Watkins, A. H. Pearson, Geo. Bunyard,
T. Francis Rivers, H, Selfe Leonard, and others. The discourse was
opened by Mr. Geo. Bunyard with an interesting paper “ On the Effects
of the Drought as affecting Horticulture, more especially in its Relation
to Fruit.” An interesting discussion in which nearly all the members
took part followed, and from which much valuable information was
obtained. Much stress was laid by Messrs. Webber and Monro of
Covent Garden on the imperfect way in which fruit was packed for
market, inferior fruits being put in and the samples not properly
sorted. It was also stated the extreme earliness of the season had
completely disorganised the foreign fruit market. As a proof of the
extreme fertility of the crop it was stated that in one orchard in Kent
8 tons of Goffs (a second-rate Apple) have been gathered off nine trees.
Mr. Bunyard also placed upon the table a large dish of Vicomteise
H^ricart de Thury Strawberries gathered from the open air of good size
and excellent flavour. He also contributed some dishes of Beurr6 Bose
and Beurr4 Fouqueray and Pitmaston Duchess Pears, the two first of
which were pronounced excellent, though preference was given to
Beurr^ Bose ; Pitmaston Duchess is universally condemned as worthless
in quality. A cordial vote of thanks was given to Mr. Bunyard for his
excellent paper, which will be found in another part of our present issue.

- Exeter Gardeners’ Association. — Ati Exeter Guildhall

last week, Mr. D. C. Powell, of Powderham Gardens, read a most
interesting and instructive paper on “ Pears and their Culture,” in
connection with the Devon and Exeter Gardeners’ Mutual Improve¬
ment Association. Since the establishment of the Association the
gardeners of the district have shown the utmost interest in its affairs,
and have greatly benefited by the practical and comprehensive manner
in which a variety of subjects, especially relating to gardening, have
been dealt with. The paper read by Mr. Powell was the first of a series
of essays which will be discussed during the winter session. Mr. G. B.
Carlile presided over a large attendance.

- Sweet Scabious. — Mr. W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall Gardens,

Stamford, writes : — “I noticed a fine row of this in full fiower recently
at Orton Hall Gardens, Peterborough. Mr. Harding had planted it
along the front of a Vine border near the walk, where it had a very fine
effect, and the plants were carrying a large number of fiowers. It has
also proved very useful with me this summer for cutting. Most ladies
are very fond of it, as the colours blend well together, and if a few of the
bunches of seeds are judiciously used with them, it enhances the effect
of the flowers. The culture is simplicity itself. All that is required is
merely to sow the seeds thinly on a mild hotbed early in April, and
plant out in the open borders in May as is done with other annuals.”

- Oxford Botanic Gardens, — Mr. W. R, Guilfoyle, Director

of the Melbourne Botanic Gardens, recently gave a lecture entitled
“ Glimpses of Some British Botanical Gardens and Their Conservatories,”'
from notes taken during his visit to Europe. He said, “ I saw much
during my travels in the way of gardening and horticulture that was
really interesting and useful to me.” Of the Botanic Garden at Oxford,
of which he speaks highly, though only a few acres in extent, he considers
it contains some wonderfully fine specimens of rare and beautiful trees.
It is the oldest of British Botanic Gardens, having been founded in 1632.
A tree of Sophora japonica measures 11 feet 3 inches in circumference
of stem at 5 feet from the ground. There are also some noble examples
of different kinds of Ash. A Copper Beech measured 11 feet 6 inches
in girth. Near the college are two Elms, one 26 feet 8 inches in girth,
and the other is 21 feet 6 inches in girth.

TECOMA SMITHI.

At the Drill Hall, Westminster, on the 10th inst. three plants of
Tecoma Smithi, from the Royal Gardens, Kew, were exhibited, and by
reason of their attractiveness much interest was centred upon them.
The plants shown were about 2 feet in height, and each bore a large
terminal cyme of yellow blooms tinted with brownish red. An idea as
to the character of the flowers may be gathered by referring to the
illustration (fig. 52), and it will be readily conceded that this Tecoma is
likely to prove useful for decorative purposes, meriting the first-class
certificate awarded by the Floral Committee of the Royal Horticultural
Society. Tecoma Smithi is a new hybrid, the result of a cross between
T. capensis and T. velutina.

FLORAL NOMENCLATURE.

In la-st week’s “ Saturday Review,” in an article on flower names, I
came across the following : — “ Gladiolus (Gladiolus, ma’am, not
Gladiolus, as some use, or Gladiolus, as others) is perfect,” &c. I
presume there can be no doubt that this (with the four vowels all short)
is the correct form, notwithstanding the use of the others. Granting
that the pronunciation of a Latin word used as a plant name may be
occasionally altered by custom, that does not affect the case, as the
controlling custom must be consistent ; here we have two conflicting
customs. Personally, I find it rather goes against the grain to call the
plant either Gladiolus or Gladiolus, though I am content to do so if the
world at large will only consent to adopt one or the other. Of course I
should prefer the world adopting the correct form, but I fear the four-
short vowels are a feeble minority and must submit to be driven in the
way in which they should not go. Will you kindly exert your influence
to obtain an authoritative declaration of the mode of pronunciation to be
hereafter adopted, with a proviso that such declaration shall be not open
to change 1

As I am on the subject of plant names I will ask permission to go on
and protest against the use of Latin plurals that has grown up of late.
It began with names ending in us ; I have seen it extended to others
ending in a, and there seems no reason why it should not creep on to
MOT, and so to the Greek derivatives in is, via, and ops or opsis, &c., if it
has not already done so. There are nurserymen’s catalogues that may
give a hint of the glorious confusion into which plant nomenclature
may fall. The pages of your own Journal (please do not suppose I am
attacking the Editor) will furnish an illustration. It is not many
months since I noticed in it a report of a Narcissi Show. I can point to

October 19, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

867

other rather conspicuous instances, but shall not do so. There is one,
however, that is not horticultural, so there is little danger of offending
any of your readers. Some five or six years ago I picked up a novel in
which the author wrote of Omnibi I It shall be nameless, if for no other
than for the very sufficient reason that I have forgotten its name.

ever their origin, when adopted for everyday use] without alteration
are to be taken as incorporated in the English language, and to be
treated for all purposes as English words, and that they must there¬
fore be subject to the same modifications as other words of similar
terminations.

Fig. 52.— TECOMA SMITH I.

It is clear to me that in these cases we should have bad Narcissus
and Omnibuses but for the bad example of a few men with a prejudice
against the agglomeration of sibilants in a plural of the latter form
(though how they would get out of the difficulty in the case of the
“ buses ” I cannot conceive ; their knowledge of Latin would hardly
admit of a resort to “ bi ”).

With all due deference to them, I submit that names of plants, what-

In a few instances the sibilant plural may be somewhat cacophonous,
but do you really think such a word as “Croci” is more euphonious than
Crocuses, leaving alone the trap for the unwary you set in the second
“ c ” of the former ? I do not. We have reached Nemophilse. I saw it
in the Journal. We have not yet had Rosfe shows, but we shall do so
if somebody does not interfere. Do support my protest, and enable me
to sign myself — A Grateful Old Subscriber.

858

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 19, 1893.

Hot Season Koses.

The past season has offered a good opportunity for taking notes of
such Roses as may fairly be called by the above title, and I think the
general opinion would be that while some have fairly lived up to or
even beyond their reputation, others have given disappointment.
Though it certainly has been a hot and very dry year, it seems to me,
from general impression and not from observation of the thermometer,
that hot nights have not been many compared with those of some past
years. The general idea is, I think, that a hot and dry year is favour¬
able to the light H.P.’s, but causes the dark ones to “ burn,” and that a
cooler and duller year is therefore best for these latter. I am not at all
sure that the “burning” or browning of the petals of dark H.P.’s is
caused by bright hot sun, or at least by this alone. At all events, it is
worthy of notice that I have in other years, at times when “ burning ”
has been prevalent, seen buds which opened with some brown petals
even in dull weather, and that during the past season I had not, to my
remembrance, a single brown petal among all my dark H.P.’s. 1 should

like to hear what others may have to say on this subject. If caused
merely by the sun, why should one or two petals alone turn brown in a
Rose, while others remain of the normal colour ? With me the dark
H.P.’s were quite good this year, and some of the old fashioned light
coloured ones were not successful.

Of generally reputed hot-season Roses, Marie Rady was most disap¬
pointing ; the blooms “ came ” badly altogether. It is quite a different
Rose with me now, being not nearly so reliable or good in colour as it
was ten or a dozen years ago. Monsieur Noman was good, but all over
long before show time, as it is quite one of the earliest. Pierre Netting
was decidedly better than usual ; it opened freely, but was as late as
ever. Reynolds Hole was magnificent, better I think than I have ever
had it ; it often “ burns ” badly, but I did not see a discoloured petal.
It is generally late, but this year was quite early, before many others,
and even on maidens was all over before the shows began. Star of
Waltham was disappointing, and came to no good in the first crop, but
produced unusually fine blooms, good enough for any show, in
September.

Duchesse de Yallambrosa and Madame Lacharme are two fine-
weather Roses, which used to give us a good deal of anxiety ; but
neither of them with me is worth growing for show now, except in quite
large collections. The latter was simply extinguished by Merveille de
Lyon, which at once surpassed it on all points, and superseded it
altogether. Good old G6n4ral Jacqueminot is a thin-petalled Rose, but
with me it is decidedly better in hot seasons, being better formed and
even more lasting at such times. Some extra full or even coarse Roses
were, as might be expected, better than usual. Paul Neron and Mr.
James Brownlow were well shown, and I had some presentable blooms
of Madame Hippolyte Jamain. Mrs. Paul delighted me in the early
part of the season with perfect show flowers, but a little later, when
there were some shows at which to exhibit them, the blooms were
quite shapeless. This seems to be absolutely a summer Rose. I have
not, this year or last, on maidens or cut-backs, seen a single autumnal
bud. Madame Gabriel Luizet had more autumn blooms than usual, but
Francois Michelon showed no improvement in this respect.

For Teas it has been an ideal season, as these Roses require drought
even more than heat. Unfortunately of late years thrips have become
a most serious pest in my neighbourhood, and in a really dry season
they spoil an immense number of blooms. I consider they do more
injury than mildew, and are very much more hurtful than aphides or
orange fungus. The end of September and beginning of October my
Teas (though of course rather small) are, I think, in some varieties
distinctly better than they were in the height of the season, the thrips
have disappeared, each bloom is clean and well shaped, and the colour
is extraordinary. I have had Marie Van Houtte with the yellow as
deep as Perle des Jardins, and the pink charming ; and The Bride with
splendid pink outer petals as decided as in Mrs. James Wilson. I take
this to be the result of cooler and duller weather without rain following
close after dry heat, which seems to be ideal weather for the perfection
of all Roses. I do not know whether those who grow Roses in pots
under glass move them into a dry and cooler house for the actual
blooming, but such a course seems to be indicated.

Of reputed hot-weather Teas, Comtesse Panisse was very large, but
much wanting in colour at midsummer ; it is very different now, Jean
Ducher at least reminded us of what it might be under favourable
circumstances ; but I was unfortunate with my few plants, which gave
me nothing really good. I have one in my memory which gained the
amateur medal at a national show at South Kensington several years
ago, but I have seen nothing like it since. La Bouled’Or was very good,
and opened well, too well on a south wall. Madame Margottin was a
hopeless victim to thrips, but gave some fair blooms later,

_ Eroile de Lyon is a poor Rose with me at the best of times ; if any¬
thing, it was worse than usual with me this year. My dwindled stock
of it will be still further lessened. Madame Willermoz certainly comes
but rarely of good shape ; but I had one grand bloom, very large and

fine, with a perfect point in the centre. This Rose, and Mrs. Paul,
remind me of the little girl in the nursery rhyme —

“ Who had a small curl on her forehead : — •

When she was good she was very very good.

But when she was bad she was horrid.”

— W. R. Raillem.

Rose Analysis, 1886-1893.

The friendly criticisms of Mr. Grahame and “ Y. B. A. Z.” (page 331)
are very welcome, as they enable me to offer a few explanations as to
the considerations which have guided me in framing the two tables in
my last analysis. I must also thank them for the kind words of
encouragement they have given me. There is one sentence in my
analysis which both my critics appear to have overlooked, and it is a
most important one. It is that in which I explain that all the averages
“ have this year been recalculated on similar lines to those followed in
my last Dahlia analysis.” I therefore refer them to page 247 of the last
half-yearly volume of the Journal of Horticulture, where it is stated,
among other things, “ that the claims of each variety, whether new or
old, have been decided entirely on its merits.”

When I first began this kind of work and for some years afterwards,
there was nothing left for me to do but to take the number of times the
different varieties had been staged in the prize stands, and to calculate
from them the averages which govern their respective positions in the
tables. But as years went on I began to see that a purely arithmetical
process was in many cases very misleading.

1, In the first place I found that certain old favourites were being
more or less superseded by better and newer sorts of a similar colour.
As to this diflBculty the plan now adopted will be found explained, and
examples given in the Dahlia analysis just referred to.

2, Exceptional seasons also often play havoc with certain varieties
while unduly favouring others. Consequently, when calculating the
averages for varieties seriously affected in this way the number of times
they were staged under such exceptional conditions has to be omitted.
Otherwise, as“Y, B.A. Z.” has pointed out, they would stand either
higher or lower in the lists than they are entitled to.

3, Then the newer sorts gave me some trouble at first, but a little
consideration soon showed that if they were to appear at all in the tables,
and they can never for some years hope to compete on anything like
equal terms with their more largely grown brethren — the established
kinds — they must find places in accordance with their doings at the most
recent exhibition alone.

4, Then, again, the varying number of Roses tabulated each year
was found to have a more or less disturbing influence. But this diflBculty
has been easily got over by calculating all the averages as for a show,
or rather analysis, of average extent, I say easily got over, but of course
all these recalculations each year involve a considerable amount of extra
labour.

As suitable corrections for all the above-mentioned inequalities have
been most carefully and impartially made throughout the analyses
under consideration, I cannot but regard it as the most practical and
reliable of the series. However complicated and unreal the system I
have adopted and endeavoured to explain may appear on paper, it is in
reality simplicity itself, and, after all, only a common-sense way of
treating the statistics at my disposal.

In noticing more in detail the apparent flaws and inconsistencies in
the analyses mentioned in your last issue, I propose referring my critics
in each case to the foregoing numbered paragraphs.

Mr. Grahame says that I have made a serious error in regard to
Gustave Piganeau (1889), also as regards Ernest Metz (1888). If this
be so he must be equally wrong in making Ethel Brownlow (1887) spring
at once, “ literally and truly ” as he puts it, into the position at No. 20,
because this variety was only staged four times in 1892, and consequently
would come out, although the earliest introduction of the three, with an
average of 10,5, and therefore only be entitled to a place at No. 26, or
not far from the bottom of the table. But in my opinion Mr. Grahame
is in this instance, as he says, “ literally and truly ” right, and if so we
must also leave Gustave Piganeau and Ernest Metz where I have placed
them in the tables (see paragraph 3). Another year or two will, how¬
ever, show whether these positions have been as correctly accorded to
these youthful aspirants as their performances will allow. In reply to
his inquiries I may here state that Gustave Piganeau was shown this
year in twelve prize stands by amateurs and in the same number by
nurserymen, and Ernest Metz in sixteen by amateurs and in fourteen
by nurserymen, Ethel Brownlow seven times by amateurs, and ten by
nurserymen.

Mr. Grahame takes exception to A. K. Williams being described in
the N.R S. catalogue as “good in autumn.” He says “ it is better in
the summer than autumn with most people,” and so I fancy are most
other Roses, ilf, however, he will refer to page 5 of the catalogue in
question he will find the following necessary explanation at the head
of the list* of Hybrid Perpetuals : — “ Where varieties are described as
‘ good in autumn ’ they flower freely a second time.” Unfortunately
this is more than can be said of many so-called Perpetuals.

As to Mr. Grahame’s criticisms on some incidental remarks I made
respecting the poor Rose exhibition held by the National Rose Society
in 1879, there are undoubtedly, as he says, many more exhibitors now
than there were fourteen years ago, and I hope the National Rose Society
may justly claim some share in their conversion. But the question is,
Had there then existed twice as many Rose exhibitors as at present
would there have been a much better show ? I am afraid not, for unfor-

October 19, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

369

tunately no amount of anxious watching on the part of an enthusiastic
Kose grower will induce his plants to come into flower if they have not
sufficient warmth at the roots to enable them to do so, besides which
a very late Rose season generally means late spring frosts and other
evils which check the growth of the plants and consequently disfigure
the first cut of blooms — the only one available in most districts at
anything like an early show, in fact it would have been just like
holding our metropolitan show in a backward season during the second
week in June. We all know, for instance, what the Drill Hall Show
(held June 2l8t) was like in the late summer of 1891. Therefore, I
repeat, sooner or later this must prove our doleful experience at ‘‘ the
National,” particularly if an early fixture and a terribly backward
season happen to unite their destructive forces in order to ruin it. This
is not a matter of opinion at all but of temperature.

Turning now to the friendly remarks of “ Y. B. A. Z.,” he says, “ I
have always thought this analysis showed rather the Roses that stood
best the test of certain seasons ; this has been particularly brought out
in the present analysis.” Had he made this charge against any of my
previous Rose analyses, and it is, I confess, a most natural conclusion to
have come to, there might have been some grounds for this statement.
He goes on to say, “ a season that is inimical to a certain Rose has an
effect of a very damaging character on its position for many years.”
Now this would undoubtedly be the case but for the precautions I have
mentioned (paragraph 2). He quotes as an example La France, let
me therefore give him the figures from which the average for this
popular variety was obtained — 35, 27, 33, 38, 38, 48, and 49 — average 38'3.
Had, however, the values for the full eight years been taken, instead of
those for the first seven, its average would have been reduced to 35' 3,
still allowing it to retain its present position in the table. But Marquise
de Castellane, the other Rose he names, if similarly treated, would at
once fall from No. 15, the place now accorded to it, to No. 23.

Is not “ Y. B. A. Z.” in error in classing Ernest Metz as a sport from
Catherine Mermet? The plants do not seem to me alike in their habit
of growth, the former being a much more sturdy grower. I obtained
the date of Cleopatra from that handy little book of reference before
referred to (the new catalogue of the N.R.S.), and therefore conclude it
is correct. Catherine Mermet, Comtesse de Nadaillac, and The Bride
were omitted from the select lists at the end of the analysis as not
being, in my opinion, sufficiently good growers to recommend for general
cultivation. — B. M., Berlihamsted.

In my remarks on this in your last issue (page 331) there is a
printer’s error. In the eighth line it ought to read, “ I cannot fancy
that any exhibitor would prefer Ulrich Brunner to Marie Baumann.” —

Y. B. A. Z.

MESSRS. VEITCH & SONS’ LANGLEY NURSERIES.

It is not so many years ago since Messrs. Veitch & Sons established
themselves at Langley near Slough, in order to extend their fruit
ground and go in extensively for home-grown seeds. They commenced
with about 30 acres and now have 70, and judging by the half-worked
brickfields all around, the time will come when the land will be worth a
great deal more than the astute Chelsea firm paid for it, though it is
quite possible that as it is first rate fruit soil and answers its purpose
well, the brick speculators will have to do without it when the time
comes for them to attempt its acquisition. Land that makes good bricks
generally grows good fruit, and one has only to glance over the nursery
stock to see that the present case is no exception to the rule.

The Langley Nurseries are easily reached. Fast trains from
Paddington run to Slough in a little over half an hour, and the grounds
are seen from the line not long before the station is reached. Perhaps
they are a mile away on the line side, and about double the distance
round by the road. Travellers up and down the Great Western must
find much to admire when the broad stretches of trees are in blossom,
as well as later on when the herbaceous plants and annuals come into
bloom. Probably also they note the handsome and substantial dwellings
dotted here and there, and think, which is undoubtedly the case, that
the Veitchian nursery is a model one and in every respect worthy of the
great firm.

SEED-GROWINa AND SEED-CLEANING.

Many acres of the Langley Nurseries are devoted to seed-raising, choice
stocks of both vegetables and flowers being grown there. At the present
season cleaning is in full swing, and a good many hands were employed
in thrashing Peas, cleaning Beet, and picking over flower seeds. The
samples are just such as a seedsman would delight in, and the quantities
are surprisingly great when it is considered that they are sold retail by
the packet and ounce, and not wholesale by the pound and hundred¬
weight. There are, for instance, about 20 bushels of Crawford’s Beet, an
excellent sample of seed, and still more of the popular Dell’s, which is
the most in demand of all. Then there are large quantities of Veitch’s
Mammoth Runner Bean, and amongst flowers miniature Sunflowers,
Tagetes. Marigolds, Tropasolums, and hosts of others. Seed-growing
and cleaning has grown to be quite a large business there, and the
policy of securing home-grown stocks is found good, not only because
of excellent samples being secured, but also in respect to accuracy of
nomenclature.

Roses.

The Langley Nurseries are, as hinted, extensive, and the departments
are many. The Roses form a great feature. As many as 24,000

Manettis and Briars have been budded this year, and that does not
represent all the propagating, for other stocks, notably the De la
Grifferaie, are also employed. The last named ia found to be better
than the Briars for many Teas and Noisettes, and is being used more
and more every season. The quarters look wonderfully well consi¬
dering the dry season, and it may be noted that the nurseries have had
to bear the brunt of the drought, the hills and woods not far away
splitting many storms that promised to moisten the thirsty soil. There
was hardly rain enough to lay the dust from February to the end of
September, so that it can be easily understood how trying the season
has been, and what great efforts have had to be made to keep the stock
“ up to the mark.” It has been done, as anyone can see who cares
to go.

Orchids and Plants.

Here enters Mr. Seden. The fogs got to be too much for his
hybrids at Chelsea, and so structures have been put up for him at
Langley, together with a commodious residence near by. At home
amongst his millions of seedlings he ought to be happy, aud if appear¬
ances go for anything he is. So are the plants. Of seedling Cattleyas,
Lselias, and Cypripediums, together with bi-generic hybrids, there are
immense numbers, modest-looking now in the early stages of seedling-
hood, but destined to occupy proud positions later on no doubt. One
beautiful hybrid, a cross between Cattleya Bowringiana and C. maxima,
named Chloris, was in bloom, and has since been certificated by the
R.H.S. It was sown in 1886, and flowered last year, promising to be a
remarkably free bloomer. The rich magenta carmine lip and the golden
veining in the throat are very noteworthy. Another Cattleya named
Phiedona, a cross between C. intermedia (pollen parent) and C. maxima,
was also flowering, and has since received an award of merit. It is^
ivory white veined with pink, the lip narrow and flattened at the base
ivory with magenta veins, and the throat tinged with gold. Its pleasing
appearance, its period of flowering, and its delicious Honeysuckle-like
fragrance, combine to make it a valuable form. An ivory-like Cypri-
pedium named Cleola, a cross between C. Schlimi alba and C. reticulatum,
is also a gem. It is a near approach to white, and flowers up the stem
like the valuable Sedeni candidulum. There are other novelties, which
will doubtless be produced anon. Phalmnopsia are splendidly grown,
and so are Disas.

A word must be said about the new Veronica Purple Queen, which was
certificated not long ago. There is a fine stock, and judging by its
bushy free-flowering habit it should prove a great acquisition for market
work.

Strawberries.

Exit Mr. Seden, enter Mr. Morle. The chief of the fruit department,
who acted as guide from London, lives at Southfielda, Fulham, where
the great bulk of the trained trees are grown, and he is a master in their
management. He has a good lieutenant at Slough, and the stock there
bears the same impress of quality and skilful management as the magni¬
ficent material in the London nursery, which is the highest praise any¬
one could bestow. There are some Strawberries left yet, for many buy and
plant at bulb-ordering time instead of earlier in the season. Mr. Allan’s
trio are very highly thought of. Empress of India is a fine grower
with British Queen flavour, and ready several days before the royal sort.
Lord Suffield and Gunton Park are also good growers of high flavour
and force well, besides being firm enough for travelling. These should
be tried. Dr. Hogg, another Strawberry much esteemed, is well repre¬
sented, and BO is King of the Earlies, as well as all the older sorts.
Waterloo is strongly recommended as a late variety that stands the sun
well. It should not be picked when red, but left till it assumes the
rich purplish hue which denotes perfect ripeness and rich flavour.

Large Fruits.

There are many acres of Apples, Pears and Plums, all the leading
sorts being largely grown, and they are in the best condition. A large
quarter of four-year-old standard Plums is very striking, and so are
standard Apples on straight, clean, healthy stems, wanting no stakes to
support them. These are as fine a collection of trees as any planter
need wish to buy, and so are the three-year-old bush Apples, with
Frogmore Prolific prominent amongst them. There is a quarter of
pyramids budded on the Crab conspicuous for clean and vigorous
growth. Two-year-old standards of Bramley’s Seedling are excellent
material, and another Apple very noteworthy for its clean, healthy
growth and good habit is Beauty of Stoke. This is unquestionably a
fine variety, and one that ought to be tried. Apart from its qualities as
a grower it bears freely and the fruit keeps well. Two-year-old
Bismarcks are ahead of almost everything of their age. Lord Grosvenor,
a valuable early Codlin, does spendidly at Langley, its growth being as
clean as a well managed Croton and its foliage quite leathery. Young
pyramid Pears of the principal sorts with a cordon tree planted
between each pair form another impressive quarter.

Trained Trees.

Trained trees comprise Mr. Morle’s great forte. Every grower
should go to Southfields, to see the stock there, and then arrange for
another day at Langley. Popular Plums like Coe’s Golden Drop,
Jefferson, Green Gage, Kirke’s, and Victoria are represented in hundreds,
every tree a model of good management and cleanliness. Then there
are Cherries, such as Bigarreau Napoleon, Governor Wood, Elton, Early
Rivers, Black Tartarian, and Archduke, almost as numerous and equally
good. High quality Pears like Doyenn^ du Comice and Marie Louise
are grown in enormous numbers. There are more of these at South-

860

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 10, 1893.

fields, and it is there that the great majority of the trained Peaches
and Nectarines for which the firm is famous are grown, so that a visit
to both places should always be paid if possible.

I might add, although it hardly comes under the heading of “ trained
trees,” a note about Superlative Raspberry. It is very highly thought of,
and is unquestionably a splendid sort, producing abundance of large,
richly coloured fruit. There was a large quarter of it, canes put out in
spring bearing large clusters of fruit.

Floral Aspects.

There is a very fine herbaceous border running through the centre of
the Langley Nurseries at right angles with the railway which well merits
mention, for it has been magnificent this year. The Delphiniums in
particular have been superb. Michaelmas Daisies in great variety,
Pyrethrum uliginosum. Dahlias, Sunflowers, and Sedum spectabile were
prominent amongst its autumnal attractions. Near by, and running
parallel with the line, was a dazzling bed which, as being at its best in
October, was very noteworthy. It was composed of Papaver glaucum, a
dwarf sort with flowers much resembling those of umbrosum. They
were of a rich and very glowing crimson, with black interior basal
blotches, and glistened brilliantly in the autumn sunshine. The seed
was sown in May, and in a little over four months has produced one of
the most striking beds imaginable. On the walls of one of the houses
Crataegus Lelandi, so much superior to Pyracantha from its bearing far
more freely in a small state, and Lonicera japonica (brachypoda), a

sand, or charcoal. Wherever the pipe is under ground, and not in a
trench, it should be covered with felt or pipe cement, made from hay or
hair one part, horse droppings one part, and clay two parts. The hay
or hair must be well worked with horse droppings into the clay, and
the mixture thus formed should be placed IJ inch thick around the
pipes. This cement will keep in the heat, also prevent the pipes from
rusting, which they will surely do when simply buried in the earth. A
portion of the radiating pipes should be placed in such a position that
the air on entering the houses is warmed before it reaches the plants.
“ Dips in the pipes at any point should be specially avoided, as they
often impede free circulation.”* “ In each house on the highest points
of the pipes must be placed air-vents. This is an important point,
because air being lighter than water it will certainly rise to the highest
point ; and as air in the pipes can never be made to pass downwards, no
matter how small the extent, the reason for having air-vents at the
highest points is at once demonstrated.”! (The quantity of 4-inch pipe
required for a house is easily ascertained by referring to a method of
rapid calculation by F. Dye,j; the writer of “ Hood’s work.” He bases
the figures on the quantity of glass per 1000 cubic feet internal space*
The figures, which are approximate only, conditions and positions
varying, are intended for lean-to houses, with one side of brickwork. If

0

K

o

o

BED

BED

O 0

O O

Piping under stage 376 ft.
Bed . 100 ft.

Piping 180 ft. Both
Bed . . 120 ft. f houses.

Piping under stage 308 ft.
Bed . 100 ft.

Bed . . 120 ft.

Each house would have one third of its pipe surface occupied by vapour troughs to secure sufficient moisture.

o

Piping 180 ft. ) Both
Bed . . 120 ft. j houses.

Fig. 53.— sections.

delicious Honeysuckle blooming nearly all the year, produced welcome
fragrance and colour, and served as pleasant reminders of the past glories
of this wonderful season.

Past and Present Work.

The fifteen years or thereabouts which have elapsed since the
Langley Nurseries were established have seen great changes. Then
under the charge of the veteran Newby, who has long since passed
away, 30 acres of land were gradually cultivated and filled. Now 40 acres
more have been added, and the whole of the ground is closely planted.
A fresh piece of 4 acres is being broken up for seed trials, chiefly
vegetable, to take the place of the ground at Chiswick, which has now
fallen into the builder’s hands. Thus the order of events is progress and
development. For the general order and cleanliness observable credit
must be paid to Mr. Scott, the general manager of the nursery.
Probably much of Messrs. Veitch’s colossal success is due to their wise
and judicious choice of departmental heads, all of whom are courteous,
capable, and energetic. — Nomad.

THE PRINCIPLES OF HEATING:

iNCLtJDINO THE ARRANGEMENT OF HOT-WATER PIPES FOR (a) FRUIT HOUSES;
(6) foroisg Houses with bottom heat ; (c) best kinds op fuel, with
THE management OF FIRES, AND THE REGULATION OF TEMPERATURES.

Silver Medal Essay by Mr. Harry Corlett, Foreman, Woolton Wood

Gardens, Liverpool,

(^Concluded from page 329.)

(3), Thermometer.

This is a necessary instrument in every garden, and it is the only
unfailing guide for the gardener in regulating the heat of his houses.
The self-registering thermometer is the best, as it gives the maxima
and minima temperature of the atmosphere outside, or the tempera¬
ture inside our houses during a given number of hours. There is also
the bed thermometer, which is enclosed in a wooden or metal tube
pointed at the bottom, so that it can easily be inserted in the bed to
ascertain the heat therein.

(4), Pipes.

The main pipe, which is under ground, should be laid in a brickwork
trench, and covered with a non-conductor of heat, such as sawdust.

span-roofed, position not much exposed, add one-fifth to the length of
pipe given. Heat of pipe being 180°.) It is always wise to provide
for emergencies by having a suflucient quantity of pipes in each house,
fitted with valves in the flow and return pipes.

Temperature required.

t F. DYE’S TABLE.

Quantity of pipe to each
lOCO cubic feet.

90° Fahr .

85° „ .

. 75 „

8 .

. 70 ”

75° „ .

70° ” .

. 60 ”

65° „ .

60° .

. 50 „

55° " .

. 45

50° ” .

. 40 „

45° ,; .

. 37 „

Outside temperature 10°

Purpose for which the
house is intended.

- Forcing houses.

Melon pits.

■ Grapes & Stawberries.

■ Fruit trees.

(5), Boiler.

The forms of some of the newly patented boilers are so very com¬
plicated that they are sometimes not so effective as those of a simpler
character. The principal thing in selecting a boiler is to choose one with
the greatest surface of exposure to the direct action of the fire, combined
with the tested heating capacity, at a given cost. For our purpose a
terminal end saddle boiler would suit admirably. In choosing a boiler,
no matter what size, the one selected should be about 40 per cent, more
powerful than is actually required, as such will last much longer and
work better. After the boiler has been put in its position, it should be
covered with the best available non-conductor of heat, such as charcoal
or sand ; a case of brickwork with sand or pulverised charcoal between
this and the boiler is to be preferred.

(6), Fuel.

What is the best fuel to use for horticultural purposes ? is a question
often discussed. Undoubtedly I would recommend anthracite coal
because of its many good qualities ; failing to procure this I would advise
coke before ordinary coal. The reason I claim anthracite to be the best

* Hood on Warming Buildings, 6th edition, page 69. f Hood. 6th edition, page 47.
i Hood, 6th edition, page 245. Published by E. & F. N. Spou, 125, Strand, London.

October 19, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

861

can easily be ascertained by comparing the different qualities of
anthracite, coke, and coal. For instance, ordinary coal can only be used
extensively where the gardens happen to be in close proximity to a
colliery, it being cheaper then than having to send away for coke or
anthracite. This is the only really good point in its favour. Now look
at its disadvantages. It is almost unequalled for throwing off a dense
smoke, highly charged with gases detrimental to vegetation, also produc¬
ing much soot, which generally drops on the roofs of glass structures, or
alighting on the leaves and flowers of plants in the houses as soon as
the ventilators are opened, thus giving them an undesirable appearance.
Then look at the filthy state of the flues and chimney ; notice how often
the flues are choked, thus costing considerably more labouri in cleaning
than is required by either coke or anthracite.

The next to be considered is coke. As a heat producer I put it on
a level with anthracite, but its great disadvantage is the amount of labour
entailed in stoking compared with that of anthracite. Coke, moreover,
is so very porous that it will absorb a very large quantity of moisture
if kept in the open air, and this moisture must first be dried before it
can give any chance for the coke to become ignited. Some people have
an idea that coke burns much better if watered. This to my mind is a
serious mistake, for watering the coke decreases its heating power. If
water was put into the ash pit it would not only cause the fire to burn
clearer and brighter, but also utilise the heat that is radiated downwards
from the firebars. There are also the sulphur fumes, the continual visits
to the stokehole, attended by the necessary clinkering and poking, this
meaning more waste, viz., clinkers and ashes. Then look at the short
time a coke fire will last compared with one of anthracite, thus wasting
valuable time.

The points by which anthracite predominates over other fuels for
horticultural purposes are greater durability, less labour in stoking,
perfectly smokeless, and less sulphur fumes. A fire may be banked up
at 6 P.M., and it will not require touching until noon the next day ;
this proves its durability. There is less of that continual poking
required, therefore less labour in stoking. Scientists assert that the
heating power of any fuel is approximately proportionate to the per¬
centage by weight of the carbon it contains, therefore anthracite
containing 90 per cent, of carbon heads the list. Of course there are
disadvantages, but they are not so great as those attending coke or coal.
There is the price to be considered ; certainly it is dearer than coke or
coal, but 2 tons of anthracite are of more value than 3 tons of coke or
coal. Then some persons dislike the working of it, but this very often
is the fault of the stoker and not the fuel. All that is required in
stoking with anthracite is described under stoking.

(7), Stoking.

Having the desired fuel at our command the system of stoking must
be considered. How many failures have there been ? How much
damage has been done 1 through the total absence of any desire to
become a stoker in the true sense of the word. Why this ambition is
so seldom met with is to me an unsolved problem. According to my
experience only two gardeners out of every twelve have any real heart
in this part of their work.

As I advocate the use of anthracite I will give a simple method of
stoking with it, which may be brought into daily use. The first thing
required is a thorough draught, and therefore the firebars, flues, and
chimney must be kept clean. At midday allow the fire to burn very
low, and after removing the clinkers thoroughly clean the back of the
boiler and firebars, then push the clean fire towards the back of the
boiler ; put on a little fresh fuel, which should be broken to the
size of a teacup, and not placed on the bars in too thick a layer. After
opening the ashpit door, and carefully working the damper, allow the
fresh fuel to be thoroughly burnt through before any more is added to
it, and if by this time the desired heat has not been obtained add more
fuel, keeping the poker out of the fire, except it be to remove the dust
on the bars. When the required heat has been secured regulate the
draught according to the weather. At banking up time push the
majority of the fire to the back of the boiler, and fill the front portion
with fresh fuel. By pushing the fire to the back the heat is regulated,
while the fresh fuel is getting ignited. The fire may then be left with
safety until the morning, and if there has been no marked change in
the weather it may be checked until afternoon. Of course the discretion
of the stoker will allow him to know whether the fire should be started
in the morning or not, but the chief point for him to watch is to keep
a clean fire without the continual use of the poker. What little ash
there is in the ash-box should be removed every afternoon when the
fire is started, and water to the depth of a couple of inches be put in
its place, the advantage of this being already pointed out.

(8), Stokers.

The task of a stoker is truly momentous, and a few remarks on his
duties may not be out of place. Let the student observe these rules—
(1) Cleanliness, (2) use discretion, (3) study the weather. No stoker
should visit his fire without knowing the temperature of the houses ;
the temperature of outside air ; the direction of the wind, noticing of
course which houses suffer most ; the changes that have taken place in
the weather during a certain number of hours ; and then calculate
what will be most likely to happen next, and work his fire accordingly.
He must be careful that the flees and chimney are kept clean, also that
the feed cistern always contains clean water. One very important point
for him to watch is, he must not have too much fire heat in the houses,
as more than sufficient heat is not only waste, but the plants get drawn
and dried. He must keep his valves in good working order, so as to be
in readiness in case of any unforeseen occurrence. As a general rule
the above will prove the qualities of a person wishing to become a stoker,
and it is here, in the stokehole, where the character of a man, no matter

FIG. 5-t.— MR. H. CORLETT.

whether he be young or old, is unconsciously, but truly, displayed, for
should he have an untidy stokehole he is bound to be the same at his
work ; but if, on the other hand, he keeps a clean stokehole, then he will
be quite as neat and clean in any other work he has to perform. This
latter qualifying point is one of great importance if he be employed in
a private garden.

[We have pleasure in publishing a portrait of Mr. H. Corlett, and
congratulate him on the general excellence of his essay.]

HARD COLD WATER FOR PLANTS.

I AM afraid my young friend and former pupil Mr. Dunn (page 317)
is going to get the worst of the cold water argument, as weighty
evidence seems to be forthcoming against him. Soft water, or that
which has been exposed to atmospheric influences for some time, not
being available in ninety-nine gardens out of every hundred, the best
must be made of the cold water at our disposal ; but that is no argument
of its being better, or even so good, for plants in general, as is water that
has been softened and warmed by exposure. Which of the two is best I
Which would cultivators prefer if they had the choice ?

The use of tap and well water during the hottest months of the year
does not, as a rule, show any evil results ; but we must draw a line, or
the use of cold hard water, recommended as it is being done, may end
in the ruin of many plants, Would those who are advocating the use of
cold hard water use it direct from taps and wells during the winter and
early spring months, when the temperature of the water would be
20° lower, more or less, than the house in which plants or fruits may be
growing ? If the advocates of hard cold water do this, then I must join
with Mr. Dunn and condemn the practice.

I cannot bring my mind to believe that Mr. Molyneux, or the other
able cultivator taking part in this discussion, would think of using
water direct from taps and wells for Crotons growing from October to

862

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 19, 1893.

the end of March in a temperature of from 60 to 65°. What would be
the result ? I am afraid the plants would not long remain satisfactory.
Who would be mad enough to supply winter Cucumbers with water 30°
lower than the soil ? The subject is a wide one, and appears to me to
need more thought and consideration than your correspondents are
bestowing upon it. Cold water used in a reckless manner would be a
barbarous system of treatment that would soon bring about a condition
of growth that would be miserable in the extreme.

Force Roses early in the season, and try this cold water business.
Mildew will soon appear ; continue the practice, and it will spread like
magic. — W. Bardney. _

I HAVE no wish to pose as an authority upon this subject, yet I claim
the right to question any evidence that is brought against my own
opinion, and if after a thorough investigation that evidence is strong
and convincing, I am ready to submit, withdraw, or retract. In this
case the evidence is without any recognised authority, and “ J. B. R.”
quietly surmises that the authorities I quote would not venture to
support their own assertions. Does he call this argument ?

Whilst in conversation with one of our leading nurserymen a few
days ago the question of the past summer’s water supply naturally arose,
and his experience of “hard cold water” was limited to one word —
“ bad.”

I fully appreciate the support which your correspondent “ T. A.”
(page 340) accords me in this discussion, yet I cannot altogether agree
with him as to “hard water” minus cold being only injurious; it is
the chilling effects upon the young hair-like roots which in my opinion
causes injury to the plants, and this combined with the salts of lime
contained in “hard water” is the more disastrous. Upon the estate
where I reside there are three separate supplies from wells situated
about a quarter of a mile apart, and the water drawn from each one
differs materially in hardness. This is not the only neighbourhood or
county in which I have watched carefully the effect of “ hard cold
water ” (drawn direct from springs) upon vegetation. Therefore I
claim that it is not in one particular county more than another that
“ hard cold water ” proves injurious, although I admit it may in some
districts act more quickly than others ; but taking the country through¬
out vegetation in my opinion cannot flourish (in the true meaning of
the word) when constantly watered with spring water in a cold raw
state. — F. Duhn.

NEW CARNATIONS AND PICOTEES.

In the Birmingham districts there are several excellent cultivators
of the Carnation, and in no other locality can more select collections be
found. During the past summer I have had repeated opportunities of
seeing some of these collections, notably those of Messrs. Thomson,
Sydenham, and Brown, and as a large number of Carnation growers
are readers of the Journal I send you notes of the opinion formed of
these flowers.

Carnations.

Lovely Mary (Lakin). — Very bright rose flake, pure in the ground
colour and well marked. A flower of fine form and first-class quality.

Claudian, s.F. (Thomson). — This has great breadth of petal, clear
ground, the colour very bright, and is of the finest form.

John Payne (Chaundy). — Good in form, but the ground colour is not
clear, and the marking is not good.

Mrs. Douglas, P.F. — Has broad, regular, rosy purple flakes and pure
ground colour, good petal and fine form.

William Dean (Chaundy). — A very promising scarlet flake, and finer
than Guardsman sent out at the same time by the raiser. It is rich in
colour, has a fine petal, is perfect in form and is an excellent grower. It
was first also in the scarlet flake class at Oxford.

Agricola (Douglas), p.f. — Clear ground colour, ,with broad bright
purple flakes, and a first-class flower.

Plato (Thomson). — A bright p. and p. bizarre. A full-sized flower
in the style of Rifleman, but of a different shade of pink colour. A very
fine flower in breadth of petal, form, and substance.

E. G. Wrigley, P. and p.b, — Beautifully marked, pure ground colour,
broad petal, large size, and of fine form.

Guardsman (Chaundy). — This was a fine scarlet flake as shown at
Oxford as a seedling, when it received a certificate ; but in the midlands
has been very disappointing this year, coming too much coloured and
rough in form. Occasionally it has been seen good, as in Mr. Edwards’s
stand at Oxford, It will, however, be grown again.

Mrs. May (Dodwell). — Pale rose flake, pure ground colour, good
petal and form ; a free grower, and a fine flower.

Harmony (Douglas), p. and P.B. — A fine flower in the style of
Sarah Payne, but paler in colour, also a good grower.

Lord Salisitiry. — A seedling raised by Mr. J. P. Sharp, the veteran
raiser of Picotees Mrs. Sharp, Campanini, Scarlet Queen, Rosie Syden¬
ham, and others. A very fine crimson bizarre of large size and excellent
quality, very bright in colour.

J. P. Sharp, S.F. (Thomson). — This was exhibited for the first time
at the London Exhibition of Carnations and Picotees, and was awarded
a first-class certificate. It is a fine flower, but cannot be sent out until
1894.

Mils Crossley (Geggie), P. and p.b, — Bright, clear, and well marked.
With fine broad petal of good substance, and a grand all-round flower,

Mrs. Smith (Geggie), p, and p.b. — A light coloured flower of good
quality and size.

Mr, Yeadon (Geggie), S.F. — A large flower with very broad petal,
bright in colour, and a rnost promising new variety.

Tom McCreath (Geggie), S.F. — A flower of good size with medium¬
sized petal, which is well marked with dark scarlet.

Foxhunter (Geggie). — A very good flower, much like Sports¬
man, and a stronger grower.

Flamingo (Barlow), s.F. — Of medium size and bright, with a good
white ground.

Billy Henderson (Geggie), P.F. — A large full flower, clear ground
colour, and well marked with deep purple ; a decided acquisition.

Mrs. George Cooling (Hooper), R.F. — A grand flower, large, smooth,
well-formed petal, and a variety which will be in the foremost rank of
rose flakes.

Rosy Morn (Geggie), R.F. — A large flower, very bright in colour, but
with an impure ground colour.

Tom Wood (Geggie), R.F.— A superb flower, broad petal, clear white
ground colour, and resembling Sybil.

Lady Mary Currie (Douglas), R.F. — A very large and full bloom, not so
bright in colour as some, but it is of a very pleasing soft rose shade of
colour, and fine in petal and form.

'lorn Pinley (Geggie), s.F. — This flower was dull in colour about
Birmingham, but as shown at Manchester was very bright and fine, and
excellent in form and petal.

Charles Henioood (Douglas), P.F. — A grand well marked large
flower, with smooth broad petal and pure white ground colour.

Virgil (Douglas), C.B. — A richly marked flower, the white ground
pure, of fine form and very promising.

Mr. Tom Lord is sending out four new varieties — Duke of York,
Bruce Findlay, Thaddeus, and Arline. The latter is a most promising
flower, and I give the following opinion by a good judge who has seen
them. He says, “I consider Arline (p. and P.B.) the best 1 have ever
seen, broad smooth petals, very clear white and rich in the marking,
very much like Sarah Payne at her best, but an improvement on it,
which is saying a great deal. Bruce Findlay (C.B.), is one of the largest
flowers in cultivation, and has not a small petal in it, very pure in the
ground colour and richly coloured marking ; a splendid flower. Duke
of York (s.B.) is a large well-built flower of fine form and petal, but the
colour struck me as too pale for a good scarlet bizarre. Thaddeus (C.B.)
is another large flower, very much like Master Fred in colour and style,
but as shown at Manchester was rather rough on the edge and some¬
what spotted ; but Mr. Lord explained that an accident had caused the
roughness, and that it came quite smooth, in which case it will be a fine
flower.” Mr. George Chaundy of Oxford, who is coming well to the
front as a raiser, received a certificate at Oxford for Feron (p.f.), a very
fine variety of good size, excellent form and well flaked, with dark
purple on a white ground.

The opinion I have expressed as to the flowers named is not given in
a dictatorial spirit, but more to draw the attention of amateurs to the
newer kinds of Carnations. The season of 1893 was, too, a very trying
one for this flower, and every grower could give various opinions of
older varieties. On turning to Mr. Dodwell’s new list just issued I note
that he also introduces some new varieties for the first time ; but I have
unfortunately not seen them all. Mrs. Rowan is an excellent rose
flake, and Othello should be a very fine S.B. from the description.
Mr. Chaundy has also five new Carnations.

Those florists who are verging upon the threescore and ten years
cannot but be struck with the large number of new varieties now annu¬
ally introduced, compared with what raisers did years ago. I recently
turned to a volume of “ The Florists’ Guide ” for 1827 to 29, to have a
look again at an admirable coloured illustration of Cartwright’s Rainbow
(C.B.), a flower which had a great popularity for a long number of years,
and in the same volume is a well preserved plate of Strong’s Princess
of Denmark, which many will remember. Our florists of the present
day are careful hybridisers, and such desirable crosses are effected that
excellent results must follow. — W. D.

(To be continued.)

ONIONS AT READING.

I WAS specially privileged the other day to see the very fine Onion
bulbs which Messrs. Sutton & Sons have at Reading, as representing
the qualities of their newer stocks. That of late years there has been
a remarkable increase in the average size of Onions, due both to
superior cultivation and to selection as well as of inter-crossing for
the production of fine sorts there can be no doubt, and although
there may be differences of opinion as to the value or usefulness of
these huge bulbs when obtained, yet there they are and as such they
command admiration. Whilst most of the sorts — and some have bulbs
of more moderate size, simply because no form of cultivation can
make them unduly large — are represented by fine samples, all very
clean and handsome, there is about the collection a feature of
unusual interest, and one too much kept out of sight by many Onion
growers ; good examples also of the produce of the varieties as found
under what is so well known as ordinary cultivation. It seems to be
proper and honest to show the public what sort of bulbs these newer
varieties will produce under what may be termed extraordinary
cultivation, and also what is the average product of ordinary culture, as
then no one is misled.

It is very doubtful whether we should ever have heard of the large
show bulbs of to-day but for the offering of prizes for them. I could
not but be struck with the exceeding beauty with moderate size found

October 19, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

SG3

in such splendid stocks as Sutton’s Globe, one of the firmest, handsomest,
and most perfect brownish yellow skinned Onions in commerce, and in
the slightly smaller, but if possible, more even and handsomer Crimson
Globe. To my mind these seem to be the perfection of show Onions,
hard as bullets, keeping for many months without waste, and large
enough for anything. A very superior Onion of a broad flatter character,
but with a deep base that makes it weighty, is Sutton’s A1 ; and there
are of the brown or almost reddish brown Spanish type some seedlings
from a famous Hampshire Onion grower that bid fair to make some of
the very finest Onions in commerce. Ailsa Craig is here from the
original stock sent out years ago by a well known Scotch house, and
which growers generally admit to be a remarkably pure and perfect
stock. That result, however, is but the product of that close, keen,
capable, and incessant [supervision which Messrs. Sutton & Sons give to
everything they grow, and which only firms of such position can give.

Onions are very erratic, and can be kept true to form only when the
stocks are most rigidly selected and rogued. It is because of lacking
this supervision that so many complaints have come to my knowledge
of stocks sent out to customers at abnormal prices have proved to be
so disappointing. Sutton’s Exhibition is another very fine broad
variety, looking like a vastly improved form of the Reading, for from
all the old and once popular Onion stocks we are now a long way
ahead. One great gain arising from them, apart from their capacity to
win prizes, the which is, after all, but a poor matter, is that under
ordinary culture the weight of crop is about 30 per cent, increase over
that of the Onions of twenty years since, and when really good stocks
are obtained, the ground is good and free from maggot, there can be no
doubt but that even at Ss. per bushel Onion crops may be obtained worth
from £80 to £100 per acre, and what other crop can excel that in
value ? There were also in this collection of Onions two that are of
especial beauty and quality for summer bulbing — that is, of course, from
autumn-sown seed. These are the handsome tapering Lemon Rocca
and Sutton’s White Globe. Although in this case these have been
grown from spring sowings, yet these, as is the case with all the Tripoli
or Italian section, are best for autumn sowing. The White Globe, being
80 much deeper and rounder than the Lisbon or Leviathan, should make
a most attractive variety for summer exhibitions.

I have dwelt thus largely upon these Reading Onions because it is
right the public should understand that Onion stocks, and especially
those of exceptionally fine quality, are of no one person’s or firm’s
inheritance. Messrs. Sutton & Sons have been labouring to produce
the very finest stocks of Onions, as, indeed, all other things, ever since
established as a firm, and what is now being done is simply a part of
that great work of continuity in selection and improvement to which
there has been no break. It is, perhaps, the case that in regard to
Onions the firm has been over-modest. In any case, their present
splendid stocks show that if modest, there has been no slacking in
enterprise. — Allium.

UNITED HORTICULTURAL BENEFIT AND

PROVIDENT SOCIETY.

As a member of the Committee of the above Society I should like to
be allowed to express my gratitude to those gentlemen who all spoke in
such an admirable manner at the annual dinner last week, a report of
which appeared in your last issue, and with your permission I will
make a few remarks.

The Chairman made an excellent speech, clearly demonstrating the
advantages to be derived by gardeners joining our Society. I could
hardly agree with him when referring to the rules of the Society. He
suggested a graduated scale of payment similar to that adopted by other
friendly and insurance societies, so that a member joining at an early
age would not have to pay so large a contribution as an older one,
because under the existing rules if a young man joins at the age of
twenty years, and lives until he reaches the age of seventy, he can
then draw his money with the accumulated interest, which would
amount to considerably more than double the sum due to another
member who joins at the age of forty. It is worthy of note that some
of our older members are having interest added to their deposit account
amounting to more than their annual contributions.

Mr. Sherwood, who has done such noble work in starting and adding
capital to the convalescent fund, made a very practical suggestion when
he said gardeners should endeavour to get their employers to subscribe
to this fund. I consider it would be to their advantage to support it,
because should a gardener unfortunately have a serious illness, when
getting better again a change of air might benefit him to such an
extent that he would be able to resume his duties weeks sooner than
he could without that change.

The work of the officers and the soundness of the Society was highly
spoken of by gentlemen competent to speak on those matters, but Mr.
Marshall touched on the weakest point when he spoke of the manage¬
ment fund. The Committee does not feel justified in recommending a
further taxon members beyond the payment of their annual subscription
of 2s. 6d. to that fund ; but if we had 5000 members instead of 500 the
annual income to the management fund would be £625 derived from
the 23. 6d. payments, we should then be in a position to provide our
excellent Secretary with paid assistance, and adopt other methods of
making the Society known throughout the country. The work at
present is done in a most economical manner, and the Committee have
no power to spend a penny more than is received for the management.

Could not the Gardeners’ Mutual Improvement Societies do some¬

thing to help by discussing the objects at their meetings ? It is for
mutual benefit. The editors of the gardening papers do all they
possibly can to make the Society known. No doubt every good gardener
reads one or more of those papers week by week, and yet some men say
they have never heard of the existence of such a Society. When
gardeners join in large numbers and contribute voluntary Is. per year to
the convalescent fund there should then be no cause to make any
further appeal either for that or the management fund, and we could
look at our motto, “ Unity is strength,” with much more pride. At
present \ye have in round figures 500 members, and a capital of £8000
invested, or an average of £16 per member. — G. W. Cummins, Ike
Grange Gardens, Wallington.

A WALK THROUGH A DUTCH FLOWER GARDEN.

You dreamt of flower-bells sending clouds of incense up into the
sky and over the misty dunes to the turquoise blue ocean. And now
the cathedral bells drop their music from mid-air down upon you as you
enter the old town. The flower bells fade and vanish when spring and
summer are gone ; the cathedral bells remain, chanting their hymns
summer and winter, day and night. As once again you come to the old
town of Northern Holland, it is the song of the bells that greets you
first. And listening to it you feel at home.

Dear old Haarlem 1 not sufficiently fashionable to be oppressive in
the autumnal tourist days, but brimful of healthy still-life — what a boon
it is to come, in one’s manifold wanderings, upon this soothing. spot I So
easy, too, to reach it from the world’s highways in England, and, above
all, in London. Truly, it is far more troublesome to go from one side of
greater London to the other than it is to go from Liverpool Street to
Holland.

From your breakfast-room on board your ship into your drawing¬
room again, in a train, and look, as you glide along, at pictures of the
Dutch school. Ancient and modern they are, at the same time ;
Rembrandt, the Cuyps and Hals themselves could not have
given you them in such perfection as you see them through your
carriage windows. Presently, almost too soon you think, you are
at the Hague, the delightful Hague with its white streets and
palaces, its clear waters, its heroic past, and its unique suburb, sweet
old-world Schveningen. Next comes Haarlem, the old town whose
history was made 300 years ago. You mean to listen to the voices of
the past, as told by the very stones of the Groote Kirk, and by the
singing of the bells. But first you must go and see the flower gardens
in the midst of which the town is planted.

The Hyacinths have been in their graves these five long months ;
the vast tracts of flat sandy soil which they, blooming, caused to look
as if the sunset sky had fallen upon the earth, know them no more.
The Tulips followed, with their tints of fire; the Pmonies have come and
gone ; the Amaryllis and all its proud relations are of the past, and
now the last of the Lilies are in bloom. The end is near. The stork,
the guardian of the bulb field, is on the wing; you look upon it all,
and scarce suppress a sigh. Clear water in straight, long canals ; grey
sand beds, and wafts of pure sun-warmed sea air seem all, at first, in
this flower garden at Overveen, just outside Haarlem, owned by Messrs.
Ant. Roozen & Son, one of the largest firms of bulb growers in the
district. The bulbs are housed during the short period of summer when
the Hyacinth and Tulip have been unearthed and shelved in a store¬
house which, in its way, is a palace. And when the autumn comes, and
the burial of the bulb must be undertaken, the graves in which they
sleep are in the loveliest gardens of the Dutch bulb district.

A boat is moored on the canal in Messrs, Roozen’s gardens. It is
filled with large baskets of bulbs, purple and red and white. Not far
off on the sandy beds, the sunburnt gardeners are at work. So, after
all, the gardens are not dead. The bulbs are being buried ; their most
active time begins, for they have to prepare, as soon as the soil covers
them, for the great resurrection morning in early April, when their
blossoms transform the sandy fiats into one of earth’s loveliest sights.

“ There is a special art in bulb planting, Mr. Roozen, will you tell
me how to grow Hyacinths successfully?” “Certainly,! will. It is
not difficult nor a long process. Get good bulbs, even though they
are a little more expensive than inferior ones. It pays best in the
end, and twenty first-rate flower spikes on a garden bed make a better
show than twice that number of second or third-rate flowers. Plant
your bulbs in good ordinary garden soil, dug up with some inches of
well-decayed manure. Then put your bulbs 3 inches under ground,
leaving a distance of 5 or 6 inches between them. Put a little sand
round each bulb, and cover with soil. That is all, and if you cover
your Hyacinth bed during the winter with leaves, straw, or pulverised
manure, you will find in March that you have Hyacinths which, for
beauty ai^d fragrance, are superior to any other spring flowers.”

“ Are there any special Hyacinths which are better than others for
outdoor cultivation ? ” “ No ; we put all the different kinds into one

parcel of mixed bulbs, and they are all equally good. But of course
some of our customers prefer special kinds. There are a few leading
varieties. For instance, if you want a bed of blue Hyacinths in various
shades, I should suggest the King of the Blues, Czar Peter, Grand Maitre,
Lord Derby and Prince of Wales. In red and rose colours, Lord Macaulay,
Von Schiller, Gertrude, Norma, Fabiola, and General Pelissier, are great
favourites ; and the best white varieties are La Grandessc, I’Innocence,
Madame Van der Hoop, Mont Blanc, and La Candeur. Then there
are a few very fine yellow Hyacinths, such as Ida, Obelisque, and King
of the Yellows.”

864

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 19, 1893.

“ About the Tulips, Mr. Roozen. I hear there is a craze for Tulips.”
“ I don’t know about a craze, but sure it is that the Tulip trade is
greatly improving. Especially the rarer and newer varieties are much
in request, and single bulbs are sold among growers for 2s. and 2s. 6d.
I wili write down a few of the names for your guidance, should you
care to try Tulips in your garden. The Queen of Holland is of a rose
tint, touched with silver, a charming flower ; Pottebakker is true scarlet,
and the largest Tulip grown. Jenny and Pink Beauty are rich pink,
Joost Van der Vondel pure white, and Golden Queen is the largest of
the yellow Tulips. Then there are all the early double Tulips in infinite
varieties. They are grown in the garden just like Hyacinths, and I
need not tell you what the effect is of a fine Tulip bed or a clump of
Tulips among shrubberry in April and May. These flowers require no
recommendation .”

“ But you must have Hyacinths indoors, in glasses and pots. You
want to watch them day by day as they unfold. It is an interesting
process. First, then, about those in glasses. If you want them to
flower about Christmas put them in at once ; the rest later on. Fill a
Hyacinth glass with pure pond or rain water, and put a few grains of
salt in each glass to keep the water clear. Let the bulb just touch the
water with its lower surface. Put the glasses away in a cool dark place
for four or five weeks, by which time the roots have grown strong.
Then bring them into the light in a living room, but do not let them
stand over the fire or in a dry atmosphere. Add a little water as the
first supply evaporates, otherwise don’t touch the bulb ; and if the water
becomes muddy it must be changed. This is all ; for the rest the bulb
takes care of itself.”

“ To grow Hyacinths, or indeed any other bulbous plants for spring
flowers in pots, you want good light soil ; loam, with a liberal mixture
of old cow manure, a little leaf mould and sand, is best. Provide
drainage, and keep worms out. Then fill with soil, putting the bulb in
the centre, so as to allow the point to be on a level with the surface.
Press the soil firmly down, water well, and cover the pots in an out-of-
the-way corner of the garden for a few weeks. Then, when the roots
are well advanced, put the plants in a greenhouse or a room in the
house where they are to flower. Place them near the light, keep well
watered, and by February and March you will have Hyacinths in
perfection,” — (“ Westminster Gazette.”)

FRUIT FORCING.

Vines. — Late Grapes. — Although the principal winter supply con¬
sists of what are termed thick-skinned varieties, no one knowing any¬
thing of the quality of Grapes will take to them so long as Black
Hamburghs, Madresfield Court, Foster’s Seedling, and Muscat of
Alexandria are forthcoming. It is difficult, however, to keep these thin-
skinned Grapes in good condition. Black Hamburgh and Madresfield
Court become red when exposed to strong light or sun after being ripe,
while Foster’s Seedling and Muscat of Alexandria acquire an undesirable
brown colour by hanging for a considerable time after they are ripe.
This is due to the changes effected in the berries by the atmospheric
conditions. The thin-skinned Grapes must be kept in a well ventilated
atmosphere to protect them from shrivelling by too little or of damping
by too much moisture. They can be kept on the Vines until the new
year, or later where the houses are constructed upon sound principles
for the insuring of a regular temperature and uniformity of moisture.
But where the houses are not drip-proof or the panes of glass have large
and bad fitting laps so that the water hangs in them, and is driven in by
wind over the bunches of Grapes, causing them to spot and decay, it is
evident that the bottling system must be practised if the thin-skinned
Grapes are to be kept sound till Christmas or later.

Of late or thick-skinned Grapes Lady Downe’s is the best keeper,
retaining its colour better than any other, unless it be Alnwick Seedling,
which certainly is an excellent vinous Grape, but it is neither so
free bearing or of such high quality as Lady Downe’s. Mrs. Pince
Grape will shrivel in an atmosphere where Lady Downe’s keeps plump and
the berries turn an undesirable red colour. Its quality is unimpeachable
even when red and shrivelled, and both Lady Downe’s and Mrs. Pince
have quality which no other late Grapes possess in the remotest degree.
Alicante is free from the disagreeable earthy taste of such varieties as
Gros Maroc and Gros Colman, and invariably sets freely, finishes well,
and is an excellent keeper. It, however, has not the quality of West’s
St. Peter’s, which is not so imposing in bunch or berry, but the colour
and bloom amply compensates for any lack of size. It is one of the
best late Grapes for quality, and keeping up to February. Gros Guil¬
laume is the most imposing in bunch of black Grapes, and the berries
are small, inferior in size to those of Gros Colman, while the quality
is better. It requires time in ripening, needing to be started
early in spring, and must not be overcropped, or the berries will not
colour nor even ripen. Gros Colman is the most magnificent in appear¬
ance of all black Grapes. In bunches of 4 lbs. weight and berries
4 inches or more in circumference, well finished in every respect, it is

really enough to tempt anyone to purchase it if they can for its superb
appearance. Well ripened, and allowed time to mature before cutting,
it loses the earthy taste so characteristic of this variety when fresh ripe
or coloured. It requires to be started early, so as to finish thoroughly by
September.

Of late white Grapes Trebbiano is unquestionably the best when well
ripened. It is certainly coarse in flesh, yet firm, crisp, sweet, and
requires thorough ripening. Syrian also needs plenty of time and
heat, artificial fertilisation, well thinning, and ripening up to an amber
colour, then its large bunches are very effective, and the flavour not bad.
Calabrian Raisin has fine bunches, berries of good size when well
thinned, and the Grapes are sweet when well ripened. With the above
or other varieties a supply of Grapes may be had from November to
May inclusive at a great advantage to the Vines and to the grower from
an economic point of view ; but it is still necessary to start Vines of the
thin-skinned varieties early, in order to meet the demand for such fruit.
It is not desirable, however, to start permanently planted-out Vines in
the autumn or early winter, as this is a great strain upon them through
their having to make their growth and ripen their crops under dis¬
advantageous circumstances, which soon wears them out.

Earliest Vines in Pots. — Where thin-skinned Grapes are required in
late March and April, the Vines must now be started, or placed in
position so that forcing in earnest may commence with November.
Some persons have a prejudice to Vines in pots, but they produce fruit
little inferior in size of bunch or berry to that borne by early forced,
planted-out Vines, and it is generally better in quality through the
conditions of cultivation being more favourable. Especially is this the
case where there is the convenience of affording bottom heat. Success
is then certain, the canes being sufficiently strong, thoroughly ripened,
duly rested, and of suitable varieties. Of sweet Grapes none excel Black
Hamburgh and Foster’s Seedling, of Musk Grapes Madresfield Court and
White Frontignan. The materials for affording bottom heat — that is,
tree leaves and stable litter, should be in due course of preparation. To
begin with, the heat about the pots should not exceed 65°, augmenting
it by bringing up the fermenting materials to the level of the pots, so as
to raise it to 70° or 75° when the Vines are in leaf. Only supply enough
water to keep the soil moist in the early stages, as excess of water tends
to render the soil sodden and sour, hindering root action. Vines in pots
not intended for early forcing should be placed under cover, an open
shed with a north aspect being suitable, and the pots protected with hay
or straw.

Renovating Vine Borders. — Where the Vines are unsatisfactory no
time should be lost as soon as the leaves have effected their functions to
the extent of perfecting the buds and wood, and whilst they are still
upon the Vine, in removing the soil down to the roots and picking it
from amongst them, so as to displace as much of it as possible with
fresh. Where the border is very unsatisfactory, and the roots few and
deep, it will be necessary to remove all the soil and renew the whole
border, commencing with the drainage, which should be clear 1 foot
thick, having a layer of fine material at the top, nothing answering
better than old mortar rubbish, a 3-inch thickness over 9 inches of
brickbats or rubble. The drainage must have a 3-inch tile drain under,
with proper fall and outlet, to carry off superfluous water. Two feet
depth of soil is ample. Turfy loam, containing a good per-centage of
small stones and grit, is unquestionably the best. It should be of
medium texture, that overlying clay being better than that overlying
sand ; but red sandstone formations give most lasting results. Strong
loam interspersed with flints or calcareous gravel is excellent. To ten
cartloads of turf, cut about 3 inches thick, add two cartloads of old
mortar rubbish, one each of horse droppings and wood ashes, and 4 cwts.
of crushed ^ to 1-inch bones, mixing well together. The roots should be
laid out evenly in the top foot, encouraging those from the collar by
laying any that proceed therefrom only just beneath the surface. The
whole should be made Arm, and the compost be moderately dry. Where
the roots are inside and outside, one part may be done one year, and the
other the next, without any danger of loss of crop, by preserving
all the roots possible, and keeping them as much as practicable
from the drying influences of the atmosphere whilst the work is in
progress. Mulch the surface with a little short, rather fresh, manure,
preferably horse droppings ; outside borders may be covered with suffi¬
cient leaves and a little litter over them so as to exclude frost. The
work should not be delayed beyond change of colour in the foliage of
the Vines for falling. Any Grapes then remaining may be cut and
bottled.

Melons. — The season as regards manure-heated pits and frames is at
an end. Any fruit yet remaining may be cut, they being full grown,
and placed on shelves in a warm airy house. The latest plants in houses
will require a night temper..ture of 65° to 70°, and 70° to 75° artificially,
advancing to 85° with sun heat. Sprinkle the paths and other available
surface about 8 A.M. and 3 p.m. until the fruit is full sized, when a drier
atmosphere will be more suitable. Cut out all superfluous growth or
laterals, well thinning the old foliage, so that the fruit may have the
full benefit of the autumn sun. Do not allow flagging through want of
water, but keep the foliage healthy until the fruit is ripe, as the quality
is in proportion to the health of the plants. Maintain a rather high,
well ventilated and dry atmosphere when the fruit is ripening.

PLANT HOUSES.

Palms. — All these plants should be carefully examine?, and if
thrips exist upon them they ought to be eradicated at once. If not
destroyed now they will spread rapidly and do much damage to the

WOKK.fo^theWEEK..

October 19. 1893 ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

865

foliage. Do not allow the atmosphere to become dry, or else these pests
will spread rapidly, and apply sufficient water at the roots to keep the
•oil moist. The temperature for the majority of these plants may be
about 60°. Seedlings that are large enough can be placed singly into
small pots. These should be kept in brisk heat and the pots plunged
where practicable amongst cocoa-nut fibre refuse where they can enjoy
gentle bottom heat. This will keep the plants steadily moving and
prevent having to water them too frequently.

Begronlaa. — Those that have been prepared for autumn and winter
flowering and have been in a cold frame up to the present time should
be placed where they will enjoy a night temperature of 65°.
B. Knowsleyana will soon come into flower and be useful for the
conservatory, while B. Ingram! will continue to blossom for a long time.
Young plants of this variety that are just rooted should be pinched and
placed into 2-inch pots. These when repotted early in the spring will
be useful for various forms of decoration. The varieties of B. nitida
may be placed into larger pots, and if kept steadily moving will flower
freely during the early spring months. B. semperflorens and its
varieties will, if given a temperature of 50°, come quickly into flower and
continue to grow and yield their large useful trusses for several months.
Such kinds as Weltoniensis that are past their best should have less
water supplied to them, and then be stored away in a cool dry place for
the winter.

Amaryllis. — Where these are properly grown, and have been fully
exposed to the sun, the bulbs should be well ripened. The pots con¬
taining the bulbs may now be stored under the stage of any cool airy
house. Plants that are not thoroughly matured should have every ray
of sunshine and a free circulation of air. Do not withhold water from
them too suddenly, for nothing is gained by unduly hurrying them to
rest. They must, if they are to flower well, be properly matured, and
given every chance to store up food in their bulbs before they are
completely dried.

Eplptayllums. — Where these have been well ripened by exposure to
the sun and have enjoyed free ventilation they would soon come into
flower if placed in a temperature of 50°. These plants are particularly
effective when arranged so as to stand out of a groundwork of Adiantum
cuneatum. Less water will be needed at their roots, but by no means
keep them dust dry, such treatment will soon ruin them.

Eucharls amazonlca. — It is a mistake to allow many plants of
this to come into flower at one time, because very frequently some of
the blooms are wasted. Those plants that have finished their growth
should be removed from the stove to a temperature of 60°. Cold
draughts should be avoided, and the plants must receive less water at
their roots ; but on no account allow them to suffer by an insufficient
supply. They will rest under these conditions, and in a short time,
if again introduced into brisk heat, will push itp their flower spikes
freely. A long succession can be maintained by resting a few plants
at a time,

Panoratlums. — Give these plants less water at their roots, but do
not unduly dry them so that they lose their foliage. If placed in a
temperature of 55° they will be safe until it is necessary to start them
again into growth during the early months of the year. When kept in
too much heat during the winter the plants are very liable to the attacks
of thrips.

Anthurlum Schertzerlanum. — Plants that have matured their
growth and are required to flower early may be removed to a house in
which a temperature of 50° is maintained. If cold draughts are avoided
and less water given they will rest perfectly under these conditions, and
flower profusely when replaced in a higher temperature.

When bees gather on a low bough or bush they may be at once
shaken into the swarm catcher, or if they are on the ground it may
be placed over them, when in a short time they will ascend into it,
accelerated by a free use of a carbolised feather tied to the end of
a long rod. These carbolised feathers will dislodge bees from
thickets, crevices, roofs, and other inaccessible places ; in fact, by
judicious management they may be almost made to swarm in the
very place wanted. Bees sometimes settle on trees at a great height,
and on branches that cannot be cut. Wherever the swarm catcher
can be applied, from the ground or by the aid of ladders, it ought
to be adjusted to the proper height, held over or under the bees as
is most suitable. In the latter case they must be shaken into it
by a helper or by the aid of a shaker, a hook fastened to a polo
or wire. In the former instance the carbolised feather hastens
the ascent of the bees, and when all or most of them are in and
covered with a cloth the hive may be lowered to the ground. On
reaching the ground the hive is at once inverted, and after standing
a few seconds to allow the bees time to settle, raised a little to
allow the flying bees to enter.

When bees settle in inaccessible places on trees, whether the
branches may be cut or not, the hiver may be applied succt'ssfully
by being provided with cords, a piece of hooping or other material
having a hook on one end, and provision at different heights for
fastening a pulley, which is suspended so that it comes under or
over where the bee-keeper wants it. For example, if a swarm is
settled a long way out from our reach, the hook with the pulley and
cord is hung directly where it is most convenient, the swarm-
catcher is then drawn up right under or over the bees, and is held
or placed in proper position by the aid of a forked and pointed
hook, when the bees may be either shaken or driven into the swarm
catcher. When the branch may be cut with the last-named hook,
push the cord forward with it till the loop hangs free. Then take
hold of the loop with it, pull it towards you, pass the end of the
cord through the loop, and draw tight. Now pass the other end of
the cord through the suspended pulley and hang it in position,
when the bee-keeper may venture from his safe standing near the
bole of the tree to the point where the branch has to be cut, after
which, by the aid of the hooks, the bees may be guided to an open¬
ing where they can be lowered to the ground with safety. The
above plan is a good one, and is far more easily performed than it
appears to be on paper.

On page 344 a slight omission occurs in the last paragraph. It
should read, “ As a substitute for the safety cages those sent from
Austria cannot be surpassed,” and then follow on as printed. —
A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

(To be continued.)

1

HE BEE-KEEPER.

APIARIAN NOTES.

Practical Hints for Beginners.

(^Continued from page 334.')

Bees sometimes complete swarming in little more than a
minute from the commencement, and at others are so tardy that ten
to fifteen minutes may be occupied, so few bees leaving that a tyro
might not suspect they were going to swarm. Sometimes, too, they
cluster and settle in five minutes from the time they commenced to
leave the hive, while at others they will fly about for hours, often
gathering in many small clusters. If the weather is fine, they will
in the latter case come all right, but should it rain there is a great
risk of most of the bees being destroyed. A few oilcloths at hand
to cover the largest clusters (which the queen, if not present, soon
joins) often saves a swarm. The beginner must also learn that
many swarms leave without the queen accompanying them. In
that case they sometimes join other hives, or return to the parent
one. The appearances of bees on these occasions must be learned
by experience. To describe the matter properly on paper is
scarcely possible.

•^•All correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Insects on Vine (6*. G. K.). — The insect is a species of Tetrix,
closely allied to the grasshopper proper, the section Gryllina, and is an
undescribed (if British) species. It no doubt lives on the leaves of the
trees it is found on, for it belongs to the same family as the locusts ;
but it may only be on the Vine now tor the purpose of depositing its
eggs in the crevices of the bark. Whether it is injurious to the Vine
or not we are unable to say. This, however, can easily be ascertained
by careful observation. If you find such to be the case we should be
obliged by specimens of the leaves eaten, also fresh ones of the insect.

Flowerlngr Plants for Orowlngr Under Beecb Trees (iL C.).

— We have had very little success with Winter Aconite, Snowdrops,
Daffodils, and similar bulbous plants that do fairly well under trees, for
the roots of the Beech trees form so complete a network and run so near
the surface, combined with the dense foliage, as to prevent the growth of

866

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 15, 1893,

plants beneath. It is even very difficult to keep the ground covered
with grass, and still more so to find thriving Ivy on the trunks of
Beech trees. The Clematis belongs to the Jackmanni type. It is not a
species, but a florist’s variety, and can only be named by comparison in
a large trade collection of the flowers.

Poetry (^Planta), — We meant exactly what we said in our reply,
and if you cannot understand it we cannot help that. We fail to observe
your name and address, even in the letter written after our special inti¬
mation. We exist to give information on gardening subjects, and not
for hunting up books and authors of certain “ lines ” that are sent to us
from time to time anonymously.

IVIlna lobata (J.. F. Grace). — The flower sent is Mina lobata. This
plant was originally introduced from Mexico in 1841, but it either died
out or for a long period was so exceedingly scarce as to be practically
unknown to the majority of cultivators. A few years since, however, it
was re-introduced, and has since become generally grown. It is a half-
hardy annual plant, and therefore dies on the approach of frost. Pro¬
pagation is effected by sowing seeds in February or March, placing
them in a pot or pan filled with light sandy soil, and put in a W'arm
greenhouse, stove, or frame on a hotbed. When the young seedlings are
about 3 inches high transfer them singly to small pots and grow in an
ordinary greenhouse until the first week in June, when plant them out
against a south wall as you did last spring.

Galls on Oak Twigs ( W. E.). — The fresh growths of young Oak
trees are frequently tipped with galls (so called) of a gall midge
(Cecidomyia querci), the female laying her eggs in the terminal bud of
a twig, the larvte hatch, and the result of their operations is the forma¬
tion of a gall, which bears a strong resemblance to a cone in its form
and in the overlapping of the leaves of which it is composed. Among
the leaves of the cone the larvre of the midge may be found. The galls
are usually solitary, though two, or even three, may be found side by
side at the tips of the twigs, the terminal buds of which they destroy.
There were no larvce in the cone, therefore we are unable to say positively
whether the cone was due to the gall midge or not, but it differs from
the Artichoke gall in having a solid centre. The Artichoke gall, formed
by Aphilothrix gemmfe, very much resembles a diminutive Globe Arti¬
choke, and is about 1 inch long, formed of scales, with a central chamber
like a small acorn. This is a true gall, but we failed to find the
chamber mentioned, therefore we name the two forms to enable you
to arrive at a satisfactory conclusion by the examination of other
specimens.

Exuberant Voung Fruit Trees (^Eiqtiirer). — The trenching and
heavy manuring two years ago is no doubt the cause of the trees grow¬
ing so rampantly, and not bearing fruit satisfactorily. You may root-
prune the Apple and Pear trees more freely than the Cherry and the
Plum. We should not shorten the roots of any of the trees nearer than
two-thirds the distance from the stem all round vhat the branches
extend, cutting off some of the thickest roots there, while all may be
detached by taking out a trench at the point the branches cover. It is
probable that the trees have straight down roots ; these must be sought
for and severed at 15 to 18 inches beneath the surface. The trees also
should have the heads thinned, leaving the main branches near the stem
so that a man can get his body between them after they have grown out
3 or 4 feet, and nowhere nearer than a foot apart, cutting any side
growths, but not spurs, to about an inch of their base. The branch-
pruning should precede or immediately follow the root-pruning. It will
be useless, however, doing any of these things unless the ground is kept
firm and not more than hoed or pointed over as far as the branches
extend, nor ought the ground to be cropped with vegetables to a similar
distance.

Xiyclum europseum (P. IF.). — This is the name of the plant of
which you send a fruiting spray. The hedge, which you say is full of
it, must be highly ornamental. The glistening scarlet fruits, three-
quarters of an inch long, and three eighths of an inch thick, are pro¬
duced in pairs almost close together all along the spray. The shrub is
a native of the South of Europe, but appears to have become naturalised
in some parts of this country. Loudon in his “ Encyclopaedia of Trees and
Shrubs ” describes it as “ valuable for covering naked walls, as it grows
with extreme rapidity, and flowers and fruits freely in almost any soil or
situation. Established plants in good soil will make shoots 10 or 12 feet in
length in one season, and the plant when trained against a house or high
wall will reach the height of 30 or 40 feet, as may be seen in some courts
in Paris. Trained to a strong iron rod to the height of 20 or 30 feet, and
then allowed to spread over an umbrella head, it would make a splendid
bower. Its shoots would hang down to the ground and form a
complete screen on every side, ornamented from top to bottom with
ripe fruit, which is bright scarlet or yellow, and very showy ; with
unripe fruit, which is of a lurid purple ; or with blossoms, which are
purple and white.”

Cucumber Plant Diseased (P. L.). — The portion of stem and root
is badly infested with root-knot eelworm (Anguillula radicola, or
Heterodera radicicola of Miiller). It was first discovered by the late
Rev. M. J. Berkeley in this country, and was figured by Mr. W. G. Smith
in the Journal of Eorticultur e of July 26th, 1877 ; but it was known to
gardeners as the “ sudden collapse ” disease many years previously, and
was treated of by the late Mr. R. Fish from a practical point of view.

The eelworms in yoUr specimen are mainly confined to the root portion
— deformities and nodules, and are quite beyond calculation in number.
A few only were found in the stem, and those in the portion which had
been buried in the soil. The eelworms are in all stages, from the egg or
cyst onwards, and are remarkably fine specimens. They are able to
subsist on decaying tissues, and perhaps find enough decomposing matter
in the soil to live upon and even multiply in after the destruction of the
host plants. This is mentioned because the eelworms are said to live
several years in a passive state, and become resuscitated on the crop
they thrive upon being again grown on the same ground. We find,
however, that the eelworms soon collapse on a dry glass slide, even
whilst under microscopic examination, and we cannot accept the dictum
that they have the power of resuscitation. Besides the eelworms we
found an innumerable host of other bodies in the stem portion. They
are bacterial, and in a fully active state ; but what part they play in
the disease we are unable to say on account of the decayed condition of
the tissues of the plant. There is no remedy for either the eelworms or
the bacteria known at the present time, though there are many sub¬
stances which will kill both, but they are fatal to the hosts as well as
the parasites. The only thing we can suggest is to burn every part of
the plants, clear out the soil and fermenting material, if any, and coni-
mence again with fresh soil and plants. If you use turfy loam char it
slightly over a wood fire before use, or in other words, heat the sods so
that the outer surface while they are on the fire is hotter than the hand
can bear. The eelworms have been introduced with the soil, the
manure, or water, generally the two first.

Diseased and Scabbed Potato (Ji J.). — The tuber is in a very
deformed, diseased condition, a veritable hotbed of disease-producing
micro-organisms. The Potato proper is infested by the mycelium of the
Potato fungus (Phytopthora infestans), the spiral threads enclosing the
resting spores being well pronounced, and also the threads or mycelium
of Fusisporium Solani, and is the early condition, Periola tomentosa,
from which the Fusisporium at length arises, for there is neither the
outgrowths (spores) nor resting spores. The latter fungus F. (Hypomyces)
Solani is considered to be the cause of “ dry rot ” in Potatoes. The
other parts of the tuber are badly scabbed, and some parts in a state of
decay bordering on putrefaction and swarm with Bacterium navicula
and Baccillus amylobactor, whilst the exciting cause of the worts is
due to the mycelium of the scab fungus (Tubercinia scabies), and the
“ fruits ” are distinctly visible (under the microscope) emerging through
the stratum above the mycelium. There is also the spawn of some
fungus outside the scabbed portion of the tuber, visible to the naked
eye, but we failed to discover with a powerful lens the insects you found
with a pocket lens, yet we have no doubt of your having seen them.
They are probably Lipeira femetaria. It is very common and may be
found in damp earth throughout the year, feeding upon Potatoes,
Carrots, or other roots, especially where distorted or scabbed. The pre¬
ceding is not all, for the tuber had been eaten by some grub, and, strange
as it may seem, that part bad not been molested by any of the micro¬
organisms. The gnawing had manifestly been done by the grubs known
as “leather jackets” or larvas of Tipula oleracea or daddy longlegs.
You ask what we recommend to p^-event a recurrence of the trouble
next year. First of all a change of ground for the Potatoes, or if that is
inconvenient dress the land now with fresh gas lime, using 28 lbs. per
rod (30j square yards), spread it evenly on the surface and leaving it
there for a month or six weeks, then you may manure the ground if
necessary, dig and throw it up roughly for the winter. In March, or
earlier if the ground is in good working order, level it with a fork, apply¬
ing a dressing of quicklime at the rate of a peck per rod, and point in
lightly. At the time of planting use the following chemical manure :
Mineral superphosphate, 2 cwt. ; kainit, 1 cwt. ; sulphate of iron, J cwt. ;
mixed, sprinkling it all over the ground at the rate of 2^ lbs. per rod,
before covering up the sets. If the ground is not manured in autumn,
add 1 cwt. of nitrate of soda powdered to the above mixture, and employ
3} lbs. per rod of the full mixture. A change of seed is imperative.

Chemical IVXanures (A1 J.). — What is the use of our advising
you if you do not test the advice, but instead suggest some other
formula as better than the good and simple one we recommended of
ingredients easily procurable ? If you wish to have a mixture adapted
with scientific exactitude to your soil you must send a sample of the soil
to an agricultural chemist, and ask him for a quantitative analysis.
He will then tell you, as we could, the proportions of lacking ingredients
to add for rendering the soil fertile. This you will find a costly process,
and in our opinion it would be of no practical use in your case ; still
there are persons who like to indulge in the luxury of scientific investi¬
gation, and are willing to pay for it, and in this reference we have no
objection to others doing what we should not do ourselves. If you like
to use costly potassic nitrate, or in other words nitrate of potash, or, as
you request it in “ plain English,” saltpetre, as a manure, you can
substitute it for kainit ; but as you seem particular about “ plain
English,” it will save you and ourselves some trouble if you will try and
make your questions plain and your object comprehensible. You did
not mention the subject of fruit trees cankering in your former letter,
but simply asked for a general manure for “ crops, fruit trees, &c.”
How could we know the “ &c.” meant canker ? The convenient symbol
may mean anything or nothing, and is far too glibly used. The most
careful men and best writers never use it, and you do not often see it
in the letterpress of the Journal of Horticulture. It appears you had
the canker of fruit trees in your mind when writing, and signified the
same by an “ &c.” We gave an answer to the question that you really

October 26, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

369

I RE MEMBER being almost bewildered by a sentence in one of
Darwin’s books. “ Few plants,” said be, “ grow on the soil or
in the locality best suited for their requirements.” This seemed
for the moment contradictory to his whole hypothesis, but carefully
thought out it is only a seeming paradox, not a real one. Its
parallel in human sociology is, “ Few men live and work under
circumstances they are best adapted for.” We should all be much
better than we are if our environment were better. We can all of
us imagine a set of circumstances under which our natural virtues
would flourish exceedingly, and our no less natural vices diminish.
We, like the plants Darwin spoke of, grow and flourish as we best
can, where we are allowed to do so. We are where we have drifted
to by the exigencies of the struggle for existence. Plants grow
where they can. Heather grows on the moors, not because it
could not grow on better soil, but because, on better soil, plants
that could not grow on the moors can grow there, and do so,
choking the Heather at its starting point. I do not know if
Heather is the best illustration I could have given, but it will
serve. What do you think Heather would develop into if tended
and nursed under the circumstances which, if we knew them,
were best fitted to it ? Rhododendrons grow in the Himalayan
districts into huge trees — lurid masses of blazing glory, as large as
the Major Oak at Clumber ; and who shall say our humble
Heather might not develop into beauty as great ? Mignonette, an
annual plant, can, by care and culture, be made to grow a bark,
and be developed into a tree strong enough to brave an English
winter in the open. Nay, of what can be done we know nothing.
Our wildest dreams, of necessity, must fall far short of realising
the fathomless stores of energy and inherent power of development
in organic life. The great chemist Nature had behind her the infinite
power of infinite wisdom, and that which these thought fit to start
cannot but be worthy of the starter ; to say otherwise is to make
a statement not logically thinkable. With infinite potentiality,
then, in all organic life there is ever-abundant room for greater
and still greater amplification of result. Every step upwards points^
with increasing certitude, to another still higher, the way to which
lies through patient study of Nature. All study of Nature is
ennobling, lifting our sordid souls from the grovelling selfishness
of life as it is to the altitude of life as it should be.

I know nothing of Chrysanthemums. I know that “ chrysos ”
is the Greek word for golden, and “ anthemon ” is the Greek
word for flower, so I presume the original flower was yellow,
but I think they are now all the colours of the rainbow, and
might very well be rechristened “ Irisanthemum.” This is all I do
know about them, and am not at all sure that I know this much
with certainty. The Chinese get Roses as large as a dinner plate
by resolutely nipping oflE every bud but one, and I know the
Japanese can get a whole forest of trees in full leaf and form on
the same dinner plate by as resolutely pinching off every tendril
as fast as it forms, and I do not know any reason why you should
not grow a Chrysanthemum as large as an umbrella, or as small as
a Forget-me-not if you wish to do so.

But what is soil composed of ? This is a question oftener and
much easier asked than answered. It is broken down, storm rent.

rock, and broken up clays, the debris of sandstone and limestone,
the sediment of rivers, the forces of flood and fire, earthquake, and
thunderstorm, the wear and tear of traffic, meteoric showers, the
dust of broken up worlds wandering in space, all contribute their
quota to the soil. Newspaper correspondents tried to make merry
over the non-arrival of a comet not long ago. It does not strike
these would-be humourists that the comet is very largely composed
of dust, and if one struck us we should only consider it an unusu¬
ally dusty day. Whence comes the sand and dust that buries
cities such as Carthage, Troy, Babylon, and Nineveh, Palenque,
and Copan ? Years ago Russia, with her usual honesty, bought
territory from the Kirghiz chiefs at a price the Russians fixed,
and collected “ voluntary ” signatures by the playful flourishing
of rifle and sword, and allowed the sellers to build RussiaB
forts on the territory so sold, finding the bricks free of cost to
the buyers. A bargain you will admit ; a trifle one-sided, perhaps,
but distinctly sweet to the Russian palate, if not to the Kirghiz
taste, and you know it is difficult to please both sides when a good
bargain is made. How was it these perspiring Kirghiz brought
better bricks than they or the Russians knew how to make ? The
Russians, very scientific and inquiring people, wanted to know, and
the unscientific Kirghiz did not want to tell, but the Russians know
several sciences, one of them relating to the conversion of silence
into eloquence by the application of stout sticks to the soles of
tender feet. By these means they got into conversation with their
brickmakers, and discovered that the particularly good bricks had
been found in the soil, and were the top of a cupola. Well now
cupolas mean cities not very far away, and there are no doubt
buried cities in abundance in Siberia. The Kirghiz steppes are full
of tombs, evidently tombs of chiefs buried in their war trappings,
and their trinkets of gold and silver beside them, and thousands of
such tombs mean many cities ; they are not on the surface, and
are therefore probably beneath it, as the cupola was, and the blow¬
ing about of dust from place to place does not quite account for
buried cities. There must be continuous showers of meteoric dust,
which our earth receives in her rush through space.

We must then consider soil partly, and in large part the ruins of
former worlds. Liebig, the father of agricultural science, as he is
very rightly named, makes much of humus and humic acid in the
soil, but these are but the relics of decaying vegetation, and their
fermentations. To the kindly embrace of Mother Earth go back
all vegetable and all animal life ; and it may be taken as an axiom,
that anything that has come out of the soil acts the part of good
manure on being put back into it. Cabbage or cow, mast or man,
duckweed or dude all alike spring from the soil, and returned
thither revivify and renew the face of the earth. Nature is
restless, incessant change is the one persistent law of all life. A
generation rises, flourishes and decays, and in its decay nourishes
the following generation. Herbert Spencer thinks Nature seeks
stable equilibrium, and it may be so. It is nothing paradoxical to
say she seeks it by non-stability, and if she seeks at all it can only
be by non-stability. Rest is brought about by unrest, peace is
sought by means of war. It is inevitable that if Nature is seeking
aught, it is perfection. As the working power of All Good, can she
seek aught else ? As the agent of All Wise, can she seek anything ?
Granting that she seeks perfection, can perfection be reached?
Our mental fingers fail to grasp the idea of a time when nothing
can be improved. Should that time arrive, it will be the Nirvana
of Buddhism. Mental effort must then cease, and a dull conscious¬
ness be all and in all to all the sons of men. But we are getting
away from the soil to the cloud, let us get back to the earth ; but
we shall land in the clouds again and again, for all the paths
human thought can travel lead thitherwards, and lose themselves
and us also in the impenetrable folds of Nescience.

To analyse soil is at present impracticable. We can analyse
flowers, tubers, plants and roots, but to do so we must first get
rid of the water. Water plays a strangely important role in this

No. 2352.— VoL. LXXXIX., OLD Seeies.

* Read by Mr. W. Pickard at Sheffield. {Concluded from page ZiS.)

No. 696. — VoL. XXVII., Third Series.

370

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 26, 1893.

planet of ours. An 1 1 stone man is 8 stones water ; a Chrysanthe¬
mum is rather more watery still, a Potato is 75 per cent, water, a
Turnip is nearer 90 per cent. Is it not surprising what water can
do — whether with whiskey or without it? I think it was Dr.
Frankland who took the trouble to analyse a jelly fish in an oven.
It weighed 6 lbs. to begin with, and when all the water was
gone there was just 16 grains of something left. This water is
not usually considered a sensient thing, but it gets very near it.
That 16 grains of something, phosphorus and sulphur and carbon
a ad some other elements, had managed, somehow, to make more
than half a gallon of water sensient for the time being. A tree is
from 30 to 40 per cent, water at full growth. When you get a
10 oz. Chrysanthemum you will find nearly 9 ozs. of it water.

When you have reduced your plant to ash you have dispersed
its water ; some carbonic acid, a little sulphur has perhaps been
sublimed, but these are of no importance to the analyst. The
future plant can get those items from the atmosphere. What is
left is the potash, soda, iron, magnesia, and lime, phosphates,
sulphates, and nitrates, and it is these you have to add as manure
in the same proportions as you find them in the ash . If the ash
contains 9 parts potash to 3 parts soda you gain nothing (but the
loss of the soda) by adding more than 3 parts. The coming plant
cannot take up more than 3 parts of soda to every 9 parts of
potash it can find. If you forget to put the 9 parts of potash in,
and there happens to be none in the soil, you cannot get the plant
at all, no more than you can build without building materials. It
is the same with all the other constituents. They will make a
plant in the proportion specified, and no other. If suppose of
seven of the constituents you give enough for a thousand blooms,
and of the eighth only enough for one, you will only get one. The
other constituents are idle, waiting for their absent comrade ; they
can do nothing without him. It is not at all surprising ; it cannot
be otherwise.

It would be useless to tell you how to ascertain what amount
of each chemical there is in the ash. It would take hours to do
that, and it would not interest you. If you wish to learn how to
do it obtain some text book on chemistry, and plod away at it till
you master the subject. There is no royal road to chemistry.
Hard study and long practice is the only way, and you will find
disappointment thicker than you ever found Blackberries. The
facility with which you can make a mistake is surprising.

On the suitability of a soil for Chrysanthemums I had better
not enter. If you do not know more than I do on that subject
you will find I should say breaking stones as an industry consider¬
ably the better of the two occupations. As a manure for Chrys¬
anthemums I should say phosphate of soda and saltpetre (with a
little sulphate of iron in it if you want colour) is as useful as
anything, but I am rather inclined to think horse manure is good.

In conclusion let me say this. If the love of flowers and the
love of Nature in her beauty be not worthy of man, then flowers
were not worthy of creation. If the gratification of the human
eye, on which Nature has expended so much ingenuity and
furnishes with such complex and marvellous machinery for the
detection of beauty be not thought worthy of study, then Nature
herself has been and still is working on the wrong lines.

If our sense of the beautiful is not to be gratified why have we
such a sense within us ? The lover of flowers is usually a kindly
man, a man with a good, sound, reasonable sort of a soul in him,
he cannot well be wholly base and vile. In his leisure hours his
plot of land would not entice him away from plotting evil against
his fellows. Amid his flowers, emblems of innocence and purity,
he cannot be altogether unmindful and unthoughtful of the lessons
and sermons they hourly preach. They must appeal to some
cognate, moral beauty of character, concealed somewhere within
him. The orderly and symmetrical development of bud and
petal must convey some lesson to heart and brain, and in some
sense sways his steps through life. Love of Nature argues at
least one soft and tender spot in the human heart, the sordid and

mean have not absorbed all its facultie s, or closed mental eyes to
all that is sweet and pure. His thoughts must, at times, rise above
and soar away from the dissonant clash of contending interest, and
now and then, at the least, lift him from the contemplation of his
flowers to that of the Great Flower Grower, the Original Gardener,
the source and fountain of their being, and of ours and our
respective places and duties in the drama of life, and to the still
greater question, as to whether we fill our part half so well as they
fill theirs.

THE TREATMENT OF OVERCROPPED FRUIT

TREES.

If people would follow the commendable practice of pruning
every year, be it ever so little, we should not see orchard and
garden trees, as we do this year, subjected to the bearing of
weights in excess of their strength and crushed under a pre¬
posterous mass of fruit, which by its very superabundance loses
both in appearance and in quality. The trees thus maltreated
cannot fail to exhibit symptoms of it for many a day in their
health as well as in the matter of their product. There is, how¬
ever, an antidote for every ill, a recuperative for all exhaustion.
On this occasion, therefore, it becomes us to resolve and act
promptly. We accordingly prescribe a combined treatment con¬
sisting of pruning, dressing, and feeding.

Pruning. — In September or October, before the fall of the
leaf, administer a severe but judicious pruning to the branches and
boughs which have borne an excessive amount of fruit. If the
pruning is too short it will have the effect of dangerously mutilating
the old wood and depriving the head of the tree of the sap
furnished by the last shoots. If, on the contrary, it is too long, it
will be inefficacious. The happy medium can be estimated according
to the age and vigour of the tree, a young and vigorous tree being
able to bear more drastic treatment, though we may remark that it
is not common to meet with an excess of production under such
circumstances. For the rejuvenating or renewing of the crown it
will be sufficient to preserve in the frame-work of the tree its
pyramidal, spherical, or diffused aspect following its first direction
should this be considered desirable. The main branches should be
taken off with the saw, pared smooth, trimmed, and daubed with clay.
The pruning-knife or caterpillar-cleaner will do to clear off the
flower-bearing shoots, spurs, and other elements of fructification.
Here the more crowded ramifications should be relieved with
the pruning-knife ; elsewhere they should be shortened upon a
live bud, while none need be lopped off unless they be completely
worthless. It would be a wise precaution also to look over the
shoots of the year which might spring up from the midst of the
general lassitude, pruning the longer but leaving untouched those
shorter ones which are likely to be the first to vegetate.

The Apricot, the Plum, and the Pear are the fruit trees which
present the most striking examples of over-production. In the
case of the Cherry the traces are not so marked. Its fruit, though
plentiful, was not so excessive as to seriously exhaust the tree, and
the two or three months of summer remaining sufficed for its
recuperation before the winter time. The Apricot easily develops
buds on the old wood, but this is no reason for mutilating the
large branches too low down, as the new shoots would appear in an
irregular manner, and might be killed in their first season by gum
or by heat.

This pruning of the principal organs of the head ought to be
done above a certain number of wood or fruit branches. The
former of these should be shortened on the shoots, and the latter
on the living bud. It is almost only in the region of Southern
France that we can safely allow a more energetic yield of the
Apricot, the Almond, and the Peach, in the open air. We are
speaking especially of the out-of-doors tree trained as standard,
half-standard, and dwarf. The Plum will keep the most of its
fruiting shoots, whether pruned or unpruned ; but it should not
be forgotten in diminishing and reducing the substance of its frame¬
work in length that the latent buds are less numerous upon this sort
of fruit tree. The Plum presents an advantage which we also find in
the Pear and the Apple, namely, the grafting of the main branches
which may have been injured by accident. For the Plum we advise
cleft grafting in autumn before the stagnation of the sap. This
will give an opportunity of modifying the variety of the tree by
the grafting of a more agreeable sort (of scion). If the graft
should fail it can be repeated in spring time either in the cleft or
at the crown. The pruning of the original branch work will then
be deferred until the rising of the sap, and practised gradually
as the grafts develop. Pippin fruits, such as Apples and Pears,
should be severely pruned, always in the autumn.

Dressing. — This consists in cleaning with a brush and washing

October 2G, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

£71

the aerial parts of the tree. Furnished with a rough brush or a
scraper rub oif the moss, lichen, scales, and old bark which impede
the regular action of the organs, and serve as a shelter for insects ;
give also a good cleaning to all cracks, cavities, and canker spots.
The stem and branchage being thus refreshed, a general bathing
should complete the hygienic process. The whole should then
receive a coating of lime mixed with sulphate of iron and a slight
admixture of ochre and clay.

Feeding. — In addition to the above we would recommend the
following measures : — Clear away the earth around the tree to a
distance of about a yard and a half, and excavate the soil to a
sufficient depth, so as to expose the chief roots without injuring
them. Fill in the trench with a compost taken from the kitchen
garden or field, mixing with it decomposed night soil, river sand,
sweepings, leaves, scraps, rags, pond or stable slops, and other
animal and vegetable debris well reduced. Lastly, water copiously
with liquid manure. This triple operation should be performed at
one time — before the end of winter. When the sap has begun to
rise in the spring it will be beneficial to work the soil, so as to
admit the air, and trim up any little irregularities of growth. —
Charles Baltet, Troyes.

HELIOPSIS SCABRA MAJOR.

This is a beautiful autumn-flowering composite, and one that will
doubtless become a favourite in many gardens. Several bunches of
blooms of Heliopsis scabra major were exhibited at a meeting of the
Royal Horticultural Society on September 26th by Mr. B. Ladhams,
High Street, Shirley, near Southampton, and for which the Floral
Committee adjudged an award of merit. The deep yellow flowers are
from 2 to 3 inches in diameter, and have a slightly conical disc. For the
embellishment of gardens this is a most desirable plant, which requires
similar treatment to the perennial Sunflower. Fig. 55 represents the
flowers.

SUCCESSFUL LEEK CULTURE.

Leeks are favourite vegetables in many British gardens, but
their culture does not generally receive the attention it merits in
the South of England, for of all the Onion family a well grown
Leek is one of the most wholesome and delicious we can have upon
the table. In Scotland Leeks are cultivated with a considerable
share of success, in fact their importance is recognised in gardens
of all sizes, and either there or in the northern counties of England
can this vegetable be seen in perfection. With the counties of
Durham and Northumberland we are most concerned in the present
article, because in few districts is so much interest taken in Leek
culture as there, especially in the Valley of the Tyne and the
immediate neighbourhood of Newcastle and Gateshead. During
the concluding weeks of September and throughout October scores
of shows are held there entirely devoted to displays of this
vegetable, where hundreds of growers meet in friendly rivalry to
test the respective merits of their products. For a period of
several weeks considerable excitement reigns, the successes of well-
known growers form the chief subject of conversation, and the
qualities of the winning exhibits are most keenly criticised.

Much interest is imparted to these shows by the fact that the
prizes almost invariably consist of articles useful for the homes of
the competitors, and as on the day of the show all the prizes are
displayed in the room they alone furnish an exhibition of an
exceptional character. They comprise elaborately ornamented
clocks, tea and dinner services, silver teapots, copper kettles (in
great abundance, as this is a favourite prize), blankets, silver
spoons and pipes. Sometimes a money prize is offered as the first
award, or it may appear in the notices very temptingly but
indefinitely as “ a purse of money.” Every exhibit receives a
prize, and sometimes as many as 130 are thus awarded.

It may be imagined that the task of the judges is not exactly a
sinecure, when it is stated that the exhibits have all to be arranged
in strict order of merit from 1 to_ 130, the value of the prizes
being graduated in proportion. The work must be performed
with the greatest possible care, as every one of the competitors is
no mean judge of what a good exhibition Leek should be, and
requires ocular evidence why No. 99 is placed before No. 100. If
the necessary difference cannot be discerned the discussion amongst
these hardy north countrymen becomes rather lively, and the judges
would find it more convenient ^o be out of the way. In the south
of England judges of great experience frequently complain of the
difficulty they find in selecting five or six prizewinners from twenty
exhibitors, but what would they say if they had to award
100 prizes in order of merit ? The task seems to be almost
impossible, and no doubt there are sometimes cases open to
question, but these are rare, and as a rule when competent Leek

judges are employed, and they have plenty of time for their work
(they sometimes take three or four hours), there is little cause for
complaint.

Three Leeks are invariably required from each exhibitor, and
the utmost endeavour is made to obtain these exactly alike in
appearance, length of blanching, and diameter. It is common to
see specimens as much alike as if they had been cast in one mould,
pure white, 12 to 15 inches long, and 2 to 3 inches in diameter.
The principal show is held in Bensham during October, and for the
three days the place is visited by thousands of men, some of whom
come a considerable distance, and at night the crowd is so great

that they have to be let in by batches, the approaches are blocked
with visitors, and constables are especially appointed to regulate
the traffic.

The majority of men engaged in this work are cottagers,
pitmen, mechanics and other workers in the district. The method
of culture is especially interesting as showing what can be
accomplished by close care and attention by men who had no
training in gardening, and who often know little respecting it
beyond this matter. They make it a hobby, however, like the
Gooseberry growers of Lancashire, and with more useful results, for
one of these prize Leeks, or indeed any of them, is an important
article of food where good vegetables are never too abundant.

All the principal growers save seed from their best selections,
and each therefore has a special strain of his own with which he
will not readily part, and which he considers to surpass all others
in some characters that he can readily point out.

The seed is sown early in the year, usually at the end of January,
during February, or a little later. It is only from the earliest

372

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 26, 1893.

sowings that the best results are expected. Light soil is employed
for filling the pots rather firmly, and the sowing is made in a frame,
or where that luxury is possessed, in a small greenhouse. As soon
as the seedlings appear, and are large enough for the operation,
they are placed singly into small pots and afterwards very carefully
transferred into large — sometimes 12-inch — pots, in which they
remain until planted out. While under cover they are watered when
necessary, and ventilation is freely provided in fine weather, but at
the same time every care is taken to avoid any kind of check. It
Js the same in the shifting or repotting, as the Leek is very sensitive
to root injury, as all who are engaged in the ordinary outdoor
cultivation know quite well.

Trenches are prepared by taking out the soil feet deep and
wide. The lower part is filled with stable manure, and over this
is placed the well-prepared fine rich soil in which the Leeks are
planted during May. The sides of the trenches are boarded, and
fine soil is added as the plants advance to insure the due lengthening
and blanching of the stems.

Two rows of Leeks are placed in each bed, 1 foot between the
plants, and in the centre are inserted several small earthenware
drain-pipes reaching to near the base of the soil just above the
manure. To a novice the object of these pipes is rather puzzling,
but their use soon becomes apparent. When the Leeks are advanc¬
ing in growth they are encouraged by liberal applications of liquid
manure, sheep’s manure being preferred when procurable. To
avoid saturating the soil around the delicate stems, and thus
causing discolouration, the liquid is poured into these pipes so as
to reach the roots direct.

As the exhibition season approaches the plants are carefully
examined, and the most promising receive special attention. The
soil is raised round their “ necks,” and cotton wool is placed in the
axils of the lower leaves to prevent moisture accumulating and
causing decay. Then when lifting time arrives the stems are well
washed and bad leaves removed, but after the cultural period is
passed Leeks undergo comparatively little dressing to fit them for
the show's, and if it is evident that much manipulation has been
practised it tells against them for the better prizes.

The men engaged in this work derive much pleasure from it,
and also some advantage, for they all grow many more than are
needed for showing, as they are greatly appreciated in their homes,
and some gain far more than they expend by the sale of surplus
plants. — Wanderer.

A Warning to Orchid Hunters.

In consequence of the depredations of Orchid hunters and other
collectors. Rajah Brooke of Sarawak has, it is said, decided to
prohibit the collecting of natural history specimens within the
territory. He has, moreover, taken stringent measures with a
view to preserving the fauna and flora of the country, many species
of which were in danger of becoming extinct owing to the ruthless
manner in which they were being destroyed.

Oncidium Sanderianum,

According to the “Garden and Forest” this is an introduc¬
tion from Venezuela, where it is found growing at a great altitude,
and at a very low temperature. It is said to be a free-flowering
species, producing thickly branched spikes, which are covered with
rosy-red blossoms ; in form somewhat reminding one of Odonto-
glossum Pescatorei. Several plants of this Oncidium have lately
been sold at auction. It is in the way of 0, zebrinum in habit, but
the pseudo-bulbs are more wrinkled and distinctly egg shaped.
Apparently it is new to cultivation, and from the collector’s
description it ought to prove a good garden plant.

Cypripedium H. Ballantine.

Those persons who have seen this beautiful Cypripedium will
agree with me that it is one of the best hybrids in cultivation. It
was raised by Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, and is the result of a cross
between C. purpuratum and C. Fairieanum, the latter being the
pollen parent. In habit the plant is dwarf, but the flowers are
^ceptionally noticeable. The dorsal sepal resembles that of
C, purpuratum, but also possesses characteristics of the other

distinct. So far as I have seen
this hybrid nas not yet found its way into collections generally, but
iOis it Will doubtless do in due course, — C.

Orchids at Woolton Wood.

There is at present in flower at Woolton Wood a curiosity
amongst the Orchid family, viz., Lissochilus giganteus, a native of
the Congo, and one which has been flowered only a few times in
England. It is growing in an 8-inch pot, the pseudo-bulb and
leaves having a striking resemblance to a half perfected growth of
Peristeria elata. From this pseudo-bulb there is a spike which has
reached the extraordinary length of 9 feet 3 inches, at the top of
which are thirty-six of its peculiarly shaped flowers. Although not
beautiful, it is a great curiosity and worthy of being grown on that
account. The culture the Lissochilus receives is as follows : It is
potted in a mixture of rough peat, decayed cow manure, crocks,
charcoal and sand. Whilst growing it is supplied with abundance
of water. As soon as the flowering is over it is kept dust dry. The
plant is growing in a stove temperature.

A choice collection of Cypripediums is also grown, the following
being in flower, viz , Ashburtonae, (Enanthum superbum, Crossi-
anum, Domini, expansum, caudatum, Spicerianum, Niobe, and
Morganae Burfordensis, Other well flowered plants are Cattleyas
Bowringiana and Alexandra, Odontoglossum grande, and a very
fine variety of Vanda Sanderiana. Mr. Todd, the head gardener, is
to be complimented on so choice and healthy a collection. —
R.P. R.

ARE TOMATO DISEASES CONTROLLABLE ?

The lucid argument contained in the communication from
“ Hygienist” (page 325) contains much matter for reflection. The
graphic description of Bacterium Halstedi,b3' Mr. Abbey (page 350),
is preserved most carefully by me in case of future emergencies.
Had he desired specimens of Chrysanthemum buds I could have
supplied him ; his information is most valuable, and his future
communications on the diseases of the Tomato will be looked
forward to with great interest.

While I am decidedly of opinion the Cladiosporum and
Phytophthora can be to a large extent controlled, I should be
sorry to claim, with Mr. Buss, that these diseases can be prevented
by the ventilator or watering pot. It is an easy matter for culti¬
vators to “ talk big ” after such a season of phenomenal weather.
I know several cases where Tomatoes have grown naturally from
seeds in the soil, and developed three trusses of fruit during the
past season. In an ordinary season, unless a cultivator has
vigorous plants in 5-inch pots, he is unable to secure a crop. Wait
till we have another 1888 or 1889, when the crops were practically
failures, and see how many persons we can find who will assert
they have mastered their enemies with the ventilator and watering
pot. At the same time I wish it to be distinctly understood I am
precisely of the same opinion as “ Hygienist ” and Mr, Abbey —
that the method of culture accorded has much to do with the
development or otherwise of plant diseases, and I trust that at
some future date Mr. Abbey’s investigations may enable him to
point out a preventive or remedy for this and other kindred
diseases. It appears to me, it is only when we get a combination
of the practical and scientific man the investigations are likely to
prove valuable to the general body of cultivators. — J. B. R.

PEARS VERSUS PEACHES.

Since the publication of my article on this subject (page 259) much
useful information has been disseminated by various correspondents,
bat several of them have failed to grasp the purport of my remarks.
Mr. Molyneux, for example, on page 287 appears to have overlooked the
fact- that I was merely suggesting the culture of Pears on walls in
preference to Peaches, where the latter generally failed, and cited a few
cases in support of my suggestion. I do not doubt your correspondent’s
assertion that in bis case Peaches are more remunerative than Pears,
because I happen to know they are usually so in that locality ; but it
does not alter the facts mentioned in my notes. There are two
sides to the question, and w’nilst Peaches fail to thrive satisfactorily in
certain gardens, it does not necessarily follow that “ the trees are not
managed in the proper way,” or the “judgment misplaced.” Much
could be said on this point, but space is valuable at Chrysanthemum
time, and I will merely say that the trees in the gardens mentioned in
my previous article were “ properly managed ” in every detail, and
were not dispensed with until after years of experience, and careful
consideration had been given the matter. As before stated, choice
Pears have since been planted in their stead and have proved “ infinitely
better.”

In corroboration of my remark that “opinions vary according to
experience ” on this matter, I need but refer to a few instances. Mr,
Molyneux on page 287 makes the assertion that “As much as gardeners
think of Marie Louise Pears, there is great difficulty in inducing fruiterers
to buy them.” Curious to say on the preceding page (286) another
correspondent, “ B.,” in referring to early Pears says, “ I have planted
several trees of Marie Louise, the most useful of early winter Pears. It

October 26, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

878

is seldom we have too many of this, as it ripens slowly ; and its season is
easily extended by a little care in gathering, and by keeping the later
fruit cool. Moreover, no Pear sells better, as it holds a high character
in the market.” The latter sentence is obviously in conflict with Mr.
Molyneux’s experience, and it would be interesting to have the opinion
of others on this point.

Presumably the same correspondent, “ B.,” deals with the question at
ssue on page 309, and in the main agrees with my suggestion, as will, I
venture to say, many northern gardeners. In the same issue “ R. P. R.,”
writing from the neighbourhood of Iiiverpool, points out clearly the
advant..ge of Pears over Peaches on walls ; and while that is but a single
case in point, it will add weight to the discussion. Mr. Molyneux I
believe has, like myself, had some gardening experience north of the
Trent, and he wilt perhaps say whether he has grown Peaches, or seen
them cultivated, on walls outdoors as well in the northern counties as
he can manage to produce them in Hampshire. “ Y. B. A. Z.” and
“ W. S.,” on page 309, are in favour of Peaches, as will doubtless be
other correspondents who reside in such favoured counties as Somerset
and Wiltshire, but even these may have found, and doubtless will find,
that all seasons are not so conducive to successful open-air Peach culture
as has been 1893.

Another case in support of my contention might be mentioned. In
the Journal of Horticulture last week (page 353) a paper which Mr.
G. Bunyard of Maidstone read before the Horticultural Club is printed.
In this Mr. Bunyard refers to certain varieties of Pears as being excep¬
tionally fine this season, and remarks, The palpable lesson here is that
we ought to place all such good but ‘ difficult-to-grow ’ sorts on south or
south-west walls, where they would in many cases do better than Peaches
and Nectarines.” When we find such an authority on fruit culture, and
a resident in “ sunny ” Kent, advocating the culture of choice Pears on
south walls in preference to Peaches it is not at all surprising that
northerners have found it to their advantage to do likewise. — C.

“ R. P. R.” (page 309), in his closing remark anent the sale of
Williams’ Bon Chretien and Pitmaston Duchess Pears in the leading
Liverpool fruiterers’ shops, is not quite clear on the point. Does he
mean that the fruiterer has been receiving 3d. and 6d. each for these
Pears? I take it that is what is meant; but how about the grower?
The prices quoted do not give any information how that individual
fared. He is the person whom the subject of “ Pears versus Peaches ”
most concerns. If the prices quoted are those received by the grower,
then there is just reason to say that Pears are more worthy of attention
from a market point of view than Peaches. I saw but a few weeks
since some fine Duchesse d’Angouldme Pears being sold for Id. each.
This was what the grower received, and from one of the best fruiterers
on the south coast. What the latter sold them at is another question.
My business is with the grower, and I suspect this individual was solely
in the mind of “ C.” (page 259) when he started this interesting con¬
troversy,

I, like “ Y. B. A. Z.” (page 309), regard Beurre Diel as worthless as
a dessert Pear. Even in the most favoured soil for Pear culture it is
inferior to such varieties as Doyennh du Comice or Marie Louise,
but in soil that is unsuited to its constitution it is not worth the room it
occupies.

In my opinion “ blister ” on the Peach leaves is caused mainly, if
not quite, by east winds. Some two or three years since we had no east
winds one season at the critical period, and we experienced little or no
“ blister.” My plan when disbudding trees addicted to “ blistering” is
to leave an extra number of shoots for a few weeks until the trees have
passed that stage. We can then afford to remove entirely the worst of
the “blistered” shoots. In cases where the leaves only are affected,
these are picked off directly they are injured. Upon the advent of
more genial weather the shoots grow out of the “ blister.” The practice
of leaving an extra number of shoots at disbudding time is decidedly
advantageous, and one that cultivators troubled with blister would do
well to adopt. — E. Molyneux.

Peach-leaf Blister.

I HAVE pleasure in responding to the Invitation of “ Y. B. A. Z.”
(page 309) to give my views on the cause of Peach-leaf blister, prompted,
as he evidently is, by a desire to arrive at the truth. “ What is Peach
blister?” asks Mr. Edward Luckhurst in the Journal of Horticulture
of June 22nd, 1870, page 181, then proceeds to answer his own question
as follows : — “ It is a disease affecting the foliage only when young and
tender, appearing in the form of blotches or blisters irregular in form and
size, being sometimes as small as a pea, and occasionally spreading over
an entire leaf. The affected part, having a pale sickly appearance,
becomes much thicker in substance than the healthy part, and rises into
a convex form precisely similar to other blisters. It is distinct from all
other forms of blight, and cannot be mistaken.” Mr. Luckhurst next
asks, “What is the cause of Peach blister?” and again answers, “ It is
caused by the exposure of the expanding foliage to the influence of
frost or cold cutting winds.” Evidence in proof of this conclusion is
then given. 1, Trees on a west wall had “ fine foliage, perfectly clear,
and quite free from blister or blemish of any kind,” 2, Trees against
an outer south wall, “ along which the cold east wind swept unchecked,”
had the leaves much blistered. 3, Trees on a south inner wall had the
leaves quite sound near the east end, “ but further on where the trees
were more exposed they were affected precisely in proportion to the
extent of such exposure ” — that is, to the cold east wind.

Whether “Y. B. A. Z.” had Mr. Luckhurst’s article in mind at the
time of writing on page 309, matters little ; but I consider it important
that all evidence bearing on the subject be given due consideration.
Therefore a few brief notes on Mr, Luckhurst’s article may be made
with profit. From a cultural point of view there is nothing in the
article referred to to which exception can be taken. Mr. Luckhurst
tells us to “ watch the development of an organ [foliage] upon the
condition of which everything depends — the crop, the growth, the very
existence of the tree itself, to cherish it by every means in our power, to
cleanse it from insects with a prompt and ready hand, and to screen it
from frost and cold cutting winds.” That is good cultural advice, but
all the same Mr. W. G. Smith had proved that fungus was the cause of
Peach leaf blister, and exploded the opinion that had prevailed up to
that time — namely, “the blistering being caused by spring frosty
rupturing the sap vessels and the fungus living upon the extravasated
sap.” Mr. Smith’s explanation and illustration of Peach blister with
accompanying fungus (Ascomyces deformans) will be found in the
Journal of Horticulture ot July 8th, 1875, and he, following De Bary
and Berkeley, practically settled the question on a sound basis.

1 think it necessary to make the foregoing observations in justice
alike to Mr, Smith and Mr, Luckhurst, for it is not right that we should
profit by the teachings of others without giving expression of our in¬
debtedness. This gives me an opportunity of saying that the little I know
about fungi and the diseases caused by this class of parasites is mainly
due to studying the works of the late Rev. M, J. Berkeley, Dr. Cooke,
and Mr. W. G. Smith. Information has also been derived from articles
appearing from time to time in the Journal of Horticulture and in the
Gardeners' Chronicle. Most of the subjects treated by the specialists I
have endeavoured to study on the plants the parasites infest, and pro-
duce disease on or in, and the result in all cases has been a verification
of their teaching, and conclusive proof of the desirability of acquiring
scientific knowledge as well as cultural practice.

Mr. Smith has given decisive proof that all the exposure of the
expanding foliage of the Peach to the influence of frost or cold cutting
winds was capable of producing a favourable medium for the growth of
the fungus. This may seem to confirm Mr. Luckhurst’s contention that
the fungus was consequential and not initiatory of the disease. But it
is at this point where the great gulf exists between cultural conjecture
and scientific fact. Who has ever seen the young growths of any tree
blistered and distorted without a cause? The east wind never produces
anything beyond a stunted and crippled growth. There is no blister
without its cause, the growth of the mycelium of the fungus within
the leaf and shoot tissues ; no curled leaves and distorted growths without
the causing parasites or insect pests. While approving of the cultural
advice given by successful Peach growers I have to say that the Peach
tree leaf blister is not caused by cold or east winds, but by a fungus.
This enemy is not confined to this country, but is found on Peach trees
on the continent under the name of Esoascus deformans, and in America
under that of Taphrina deformans. The continental trees against walls
receive similar protection to that given in this country ; in America the
trees are grown as low standards, and have no protection whatever. In
all regions of the earth where the Peach is grown it is subject to attack
by the parasite, because the leaves afford it its peculiar food. Surely
that is simple enough to be comprehended. The fungus is a plant,
endowed with the power of growth and reproduction. It springs into
existence from a spore. There is nothing mythical about it. True it
belongs to a very lowly group of the Ascomycetes family of fungi, but it
has great power in producing distortion or deformities in the leaves of
Peaches and other trees. We can see the parasite in all the stages of
growth as plainly revealed by the microscope. We cannot see the east
wind ; it is said that pigs can, but as they cannot tell us what there is
in it, we will believe what we see — namely, the fungus growing in the
leaves of Peach trees and the blistering that follows.

The Peach leaf blister fungus, Exoascus (Ascomyces, Taphrina)
deformans, makes its presence manifest by the red blisters on the leaves.
These are due to the previous action of the mycelium within the leaf
tissues, enlarging and multiplying the cells, giving rise to the thickening
and swollen condition of the leaves. The first indication, however, of an
attack by the fungus is an abnormal growth, a thickening and deepening
of colour in the leaves. There is no pale sickly hue such as results from
exposure to cold or the presence of aphides, for sickly leaves are of no
use to the fungus, as it lives upon the chlorophyll. This the mycelium
destroys, and red colouring matter takes its place, as seen in the
blisters. Ultimately, the mycelium or outgrowths from it burst through
the cuticle or skin of the leaf, and appears as a fine pale bloom, visible
chiefly on the lower surface. This consists of a stratum of fine
threads, from which spring innumerable erect, slender flask-shaped
bodies (asci), each supported on a shorter cell. Each ascus contains
eight minute oblong spores ; these, escaping by an orifice at the apex, go
forth to reproduce the fungus. In addition to asci, other necklace-like
growths spring from the threads, and consist of simple cells or spores,
which are considered by Mr, Smith to be capable of reproducing the
fungus. Excellent illustrations of the attack on the leaves and of the
fungus will be found in the Journal of Horticulture, vol, xxviii., new
series, page 31, by Mr. W, G, Smith.

The leaves covered or attacked with Exoascus deformans wither an I
fall off prematurely. The period of attack is confined to the spring or
early summer, for when the weather becomes warm and settled the
growths start freely and the leaves are not attacked by Exoascus
deformans. This has led to the erroneous conclusion that the fungus
spores are only able to act on tissues impaired by cold weather. Frost

374

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 26, 1893.

either kills tender growths, or causes the leaves and fruits to sicken and
drop. Cold contracts — stunts shoots and cripples leaves. How the
spores of Exoascus deformans can push their germinal tubes through the
cuticle of a leaf when it is contracted — drawn tight to resist the cold —
or enter the leaf tissues by the stomata when these are closed, ia more
than I am able to understand. But this is wholly outside the subject, for
cold weather has nothing whatever to do with the fungus any more than
it haa with certain species of Crocus flowering in the spring and others
in the autumn. Yet there is said to be a predisposing cause. What is it ?
I do not know. Who does 1 But I do know that there is a fungus — a
plant — named Exoascus deformans by botanists, which is raised from
seed (spores), requires a Peach tree to grow in, lives on chlorophyll, and
produces its blossoms and fruits during the early summer months. It is
a perennial — the mycelium lives in the tissues, and the disease reappears
year after year on the same branch or tree.

Now I should like a little information. Whence come the spores ?
From sunny France ? The balmy East 1 Where does the east wind pick
up the spores ? It is no use appealing to the wind 1 What about the
trees on walls in this country ? Are there not any decrepit — half dead
in branch, distorted in shoot, and blistered in leaf 1 Is it from these
that the spores are wafted by the east wind and disease set up in trees
situated westward ? Why, then, do not west winds convey the seeds of
disease eastwards 1 The spores must come from somewhere, and it is
certain they cannot bear the drought of summer nor the cold of winter,
for they are naked cells, and must soon do or die. That is one reason
the fungus does not raise blisters on the leaves of Peach trees grown
against walls in the summer. It is also completely foiled by a glass roof
with careful ventilation in the spring, and it can make nothing of leaves
with a stout epidermis. Yet it lives from year to year in the same
garden on the identical trees first infested.

There is only this preventive and remedy — cut off and burn the
blistered leaves before the bloom appears on the red warts, also cut off
and destroy the diseased shoots or branches. By one the spores are got
rid of, and by the other the perennial mycelium. As for dressings,
winter applications can be of no use, and as Peach foliage is very tender
in spring it would not be safe to employ a Bordeaux mixture at greater
strength than the following : Sulphate of copper, 4 ozs. ; quicklime,
4 ozs. ; water, 15 gallons, using as a spray. — G. Abbev.

SUMMER AND WINTER BEGONIAS.

I AM very glad that Mr. Molyneux (page 310) is able to report satis¬
factorily of his Tuberous Begonias. It is a great deal more than could
be done in most gardens out of Hampshire I am afraid. True, the very
favourable autumn with its warmth and heavy rains has greatly
improved the beds, and like the field Mushrooms Begonias have been
having a better chance lately than they have had all the season. Some
tubers lifted a few days ago in a garden I was in illustrated in a very
remarkable degree the evil influences of the drought. The only growths
they had been equal to pushing were 3 to 4 inches long, doing little
more, in fact, than getting fairly through the ground, and about as
thick as my pencil. Fortunately they were not all like that, otherwise
the beds would have been eompletely bare.

I can only hope that the improved aspect wh ich Begonias have assumed
late in the season will do something to redeem the bad impression
which many must have formed of them in the full flare of this searching
summer. There has by no means been a universal failure. Not far
from where I am now writing there is one of the most beautiful front
gardens which I have seen attached to a small villa, and its chief
occupants are Begonias, and if an exception on a larger scale be required
it may be found in Messrs. Cannell & Sons’ Nursery at Swanley. They
have thousands of plants blooming in the beds, presenting both to those
on the adjoining railway, and to those in the nursery itself, a very rich
and warm glow of colour.

It is to be particularly noted how much better the doubles have done
than the singles. Where many of the latter are stunted and ill-clothed
with foliage and bloom the former are fully furnished with both leaves
and flowers. It is well worth while to give this fact due consideration,
for the plants have had the same chance in every way. This would
point to the advisability of giving special attention to the doubles for
bedding, and also to the necessity for selecting some of the best and
most distinct types of them. The Swanley growers have risen to the
occasion, as they generally do, and have chosen some varieties of
vigorous but even, compact growth and of pronounced free-flowering
qualities from the mass of material in the beds with a view to giving
them special recommendation for outdoor growth. Their action may be
cordially endorsed, for there is no question of the superior effectiveness
of beds furnished with floriferous and well balanced plants, bright and
decided in colour, toothers filled with a heterogeneous mixture (if such a
phrase be permitted) of seedlings, some of which are strong growers,
others w’eak, some tall, and some short.

As instances, four new selections, all doubles, to which varietal
names have been given may be mentioned. One is Freedom, a salmon-
pink free-flowering dwarf sort, with a growth as even and level as a
Tom Thumb Tropreolura ; a second is Attraction, brilliant orange, also
dwarf, bushy, and floriferous ; a third is Erecta, a rose-coloured form, of
taller and more upright growth than the others, but very even and
^ fourth. Red Shirt, a scarlet semi-double, covering itself
with flowers. These are very conspicuous in the beds, being as regular
in growth as a number of market Genistas or Pelargoniums, and easily

to be picked out in their lines. Messrs. Cannell &c Sons are doing good
work with these special selections of bedders.

Their collection under glass is also a very extensive one. They have
five of their long houses full — or rather had, for the structures are now
being rapidly cleared — besides several more at Eynsford, where, the
head of the. firm tells me, his son has fairly beaten bim with the quality
of his plants. Paterfamilias seems rather proud of his defeat. The
Eynsford plants must be good, for those at Swanley, or such as are left
of them, are a very beautiful colleetion. The great majority are grown
in 5 and 6-inch pots, no special culture being attempted, but preference
given to smaller plants, in order that their true qualities under ordinary
cultivation may be estimated. A few of the best of the doubles are
R. B. Parsons, bright pink ; Miss Cochrane, peach, very large ; Lady
Osborne, rosy salmon, a very distinct shade ; Lord Haddo, bright rose
with creamy flakes, one of the Carnation-flowered breaks ; Rosebud,
pale pink, a familiar variety ; Miss E. Wynne, white, crimped flowers,
a very beautiful sort of drooping habit, well suited for a basket ; Miss
Lilian Maud, rosy salmon, very large and full ; Lady Alice, light yellow,
very free ; Hon. Mrs. Goschen, creamy, very large and free ; Mrs.
Lynch, soft pink, crimped ; Rev. Mr. Lascelles, clear yellow ; Frank
Bibby, rich glowing crimson ; Octavie, double white, now thoroughly
well known ; Mr. G. Paul, cream, very large and full ; J. Lyon, glowing
crimson, very large, full, and fine ; and Safrano, light apricot, semi¬
double. The best of the singles were over, but Albert George (rich
orange, very large, and consistently good) and Fashion (a charming
orange-amber sort) were conspicuously beautiful. The plants are all
from this year’s cuttings, so that their fine appearance represents
inherent quality, not special cultivation.

Let no visitor to the Swanley Nurseries leave without inspecting the
house of winter-flowering varieties, for it is already a beautiful sight,
and will improve as time goes on. This valuable class is growing
steadily in popular esteem, and if anything were wanted to prove their
usefulness and charm the house referred to will supply it. The collection
is one of the best in the country without any doubt. As might be
expected Gloire de Sceaux plays a prominent part. Those who have had
opportunities of estimating the effectiveness of this grand Begonia
naturally look for it wherever they go, forgetful that all gardeners have
not had the same chances, but it is only a question of time for it to
become a universal favourite. Carrierei is a totally different type of
plant, the foliage being smaller, and the habit more bushy. Plants in
5-inch pots are a foot high and 15 inches across, being, like well-managed
Cyclamens, broader than they are high, and, moreover, quite clothed
with bloom. It is a very valuable sort. Weltoniensis is too well known
to need comment, and so is nit'da ; but there are two of the semper-
florens type less familiar ; one is S. gigantea rosea, which has very large
bright green leaves, and abundance of rosy flDwers ; the other is a sort
named Laura, the foliage of which approaches heart-shape, and the
flowers are pink. It is a true winter b'oomer. These are six of the
best, but that there are many others in every respect well worthy of
culture a call will at once suffice to prove. — W. P. W.

COLD HARD WATER FOR PLANTS.

Mr. Dunn’s last communication (page 361) on the subject clearly
shows that a little more reflection on the matter may prove of consider¬
able service to him. He has not proved a single idea he set forth, but,
on the other hand, it has been conclusively proved that many practical
growers, well known and respected in these pages, do cultivate their
plants and crops successfully, using water such as he condemned.

Mr. Bardney (page 361), with his usual judgment, now appears on
the scene in a very conciliatory mood, but I should like to remind your
able contributor that I have never suggested the use of cold hard water
during the winter months. My contention was that it can be, and is,
used between the months of March and November successfully. My
object in writing was to prove that Mr. Dunn’s pet idea had led him
beyond the bounds of prudence and modern practice.

In reply to “ T. A.” (page 340), I am able to state practically that
the water of the New River Company does contain a large per-centage
of lime, in fact the river has its origin at the foot of a chalk hill. This
water when used in Hertfordshire will leave a white deposit on the
leaves of plants, and there can be no doubt it is very hard. The water
of the East London Company never sees the light tdl it is applied to
our plants, and is, as I stated in a previous communication, very cold.
It is also very hard to the touch, but it does not leave the white limy
deposit on the leaves like the New River water. — J. B. R.

One of your correspondents mentioned that water impregnated with
lime “ burned the rootlets of plants.” Does lime in water burn the
rootlets of plants ? I hardly think so, or it would not be recommended
as harmless as a “ slugicide,” doing no injury to plants. Some plants
thrive amongst lime, while it kills others. Heaths, for example ;
instead of lime in water “ burning,” is it not rather a case of petrification ?

I have always been of opnion that in watering artificially the
temperature of the water should never be less than that of the soil
the roots are in. For syringing, I think the water should be a little
warmer than the temperature of the air either inside or outside. I have
watered with cold spring water during a drought, but failed to see any
good arising. I know of several springs differing in temperature to the
extent of 20°. Is “pure” water proper food for plants? Very few
waters are pure ; they soon contract impurities or foreign matter when
formed into rain drops or pass into streams. — T. N. B.

October 26, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

375

Events op the Week. — The principal events of horticultural
interest during the ensuing week will include several Chrysanthemum
shows. The first one, Havant, will be opened on Friday, the 28th inst.,
and others will follow in quick rotation. A list of some of the most
important exhibitions, and those that have been advertised in our
columns, is given on page 380 of the present issue.

- The Weather ik London.— The weather has been mild

during the greater part of the past week, and much rain has fallen in
the metropolis. On Sunday it rained more or less nearly all day, but
was fine on Monday. Tuesday proved colder, and Wednesday opened
^milarly, it being also dull as we are preparing for press.

- La Societe Royale d’Agrichlture et de Botanique

DE Gand. — At a meeting of this Society, held on the 16th inst., Mr.
H. J. Veitch, of the Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea, was unanimously
elected a Membre d'Honneur, in recognition of his services to botany
and to horticulture.

- Amaryllis Belladonna.— Mr. W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall

Gardens, Stamford, writes A narrow border of this plant at the
Mote Park, near Maidstone, formed a very pretty, as well as an unusual
sight, last month when the plants were in flower. Mr. Fielder grows it
on a south aspect close to some warm Orchid houses, which no doubt
assists it to a certain extent during the cold weather, and also helps to
ripen the bulbs in the summer. The plant has one bad point, as it
flowers at a time when it has no foliage, but this may be assisted in
various ways so as to give full effect to the flowers.”

- New Zealand Plants. — According to a New Zealand paper,

Mr. James Veitch, of the well-known firm of Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons
of Chelsea, who has been travelling in search of plants all over the
world for some years, has collected plants from that part of the globe.
They were packed in twelve large Wardian cases, weighing over half a
ton each. The dimensions of each case are 4 feet by 2 feet 6 inches,
and 2 feet 6 inches high. The twelve Wardian cases mentioned
were shipped by the “ Ruahine,” from Lyttelton, for London, by
which vessel Mr. Veitch was also a passenger. [We learn with pleasure
that Mr. James Veitch has arrived home safely, also the plants, to
which a further reference will be made.]

- The First International Botanical Congress ever

convened on American soil was held at Madison, Wis., immediately after
the adjournment of the American Association for the Advancement of
Science, August 23rd and 24th. The foreign representation, however,
was so small that the title of the meeting was changed to the “ Madison
Botanical Congress.” The meeting was an outgrowth of that at Genoa
last year. Professor E. L. Greene of California was elected President.
All the subjects discussed at the meeting referred to terminology, the
following being the topics : — 1, Plant Diseases ; 2, Anatomy and
Morphology ; 3, Physiology ; 4, Horticultural Forms ; 5, Bibliography.
It is expected, says “Nature,” that the next meeting will be held in
Europe in 1894, but the precise time and place was not announced.

- The Best Country for Apples. — It is said that California

will never get the fame in Apple culture which has followed its
experience with other fruits. This is natural ; the Apple is a native of
cool and comparatively northern regions. It has never been able to
adapt itself to warm countries. Even in the Eastern States the Apple
is not a particularly successful fruit south of the Potomac river, except
in the mountains and cool regions. All along the Allegheny range they
thrive admirably, quite as well as in the famous Apple regions of
western New York ; but when we get into the lower lands, where a
long and comparatively high summer temperature prevails, the Apple
would never be looked upon as a desirable orchard fruit by those who
were looking to profit from fruit culture. Thus remarks “ Meehans’
Monthly,” and by way of a supplement we might put in a claim that
England is at least one of the best countries in the world for Apples.
This year they have in most localities been exceptionally fine.

- Gardening Appointment.— Mr. William Seal, five years

foreman for Earl Stanhope, Chevening Park, Kent, has been appointed
head gardener to S. W. Waller, Esq., Baynard’s Park, Surrey.

- Curious Spelling op the Names op Pears. — In a

fruiterer’s shop in a Suffolk town I noticed the following three Pears
very well represented — Chaumontel, Beurr6 Diel, and Bergamotte
d’Automne, but curiously labelled “ Sharman’s Tell,” “ Bure’s Dale,”
and “Burgoyne” respectively. — East Anglia.

- Gaillardias and Antirrhinums. — These are still in flower

and have been so since the spring. They appear to have almost
enjoyed the very dry season, and have proved most useful for cutting
when nearly everything else was burnt up. A bed of Yellow Prince
dwarf Antirrhinums has been much admired. — East Anglia.

- Self-sown Tomatoes. — Mr. G. F. Ash, The Gardens, Swan-

bourne House, Winslow, Bucks, informs us that he had self-sown
Tomatoes which came up in the open garden, and one plant was simply
staked and in no other way protected. This produced 130 very large
fruit of the old wrinkled red type, and many of them ripened.

- According to the “ Lancet,” the Apothecaries’ Society are

about to apply to the Courts lor powers to sell their Botanical Gardens
at Chelsea, the money value of which has been fixed at about £30,000.
The removal of this historic garden would be a source of keen regret
to the many who have profited by the instruction conveyed by its means.

- Belladonna Lily. — “T. A., Bristol," writes: — A few seeds

of this plant have ripened here this season. I should be glad to know if
it is unusual, as I do not remember to have seen in previous years any
capsules attempting to swell much less to perfect their seeds. These
are about the size and form of the small round grained Maize, and
when first gathered are of an ivory white colour.

- Johnson’s Gardeners’ Dictionary.— A copy of part vii. of

the new edition of the above work has come to hand, and like its
predecessors, it has been carefully prepared. It opens with the genus
Pleandra and finishes with a description of Sesbanias, the intervening
genera being described in alphabetical order. One more instalment, we
believe, remains to be published, which completes the edition. As
before remarked, Messrs. G. Bell & Sons, Covent Garden, W.C., are the
publishers.

- Ripe Strawberries in October. — Mr. C. Bellwood, The

Gardens, East Horsley Towers, near Leatherhead, writes : — In answer to
Mr. G. Freeman’s remarks (page 355) of discovering several clusters of
Strawberries showing colour on the 9th inst., I discovered October 19th
several clusters of fruit also in looking over a plot. Some are quite ripe,
others not so forward, but I think they will ripen. I may add, the
Strawberries were produced from plants that have already fruited in the
open, and had not been forced. Mr. John Short, Darlington, also
observes : — “ I gathered some Strawberries on the 6th, and nearly every
day since we have had a few ripe fruits, and there are still quite a
number ripening. These are from plants that have been planted out
two years. There are other persons in the immediate neighbourhood
whose experience is similar. This is the first time we have had any
ripe in October for fifteen years.” Another correspondent from Bristol
says, “ My two-year-old plants of Vicomtesse H4ricart de Thury have
ripened several fruits during the present month, and there are still
some to be found in various stages of development ; they are rather
small, however, and not worth protecting. Neither Noble nor any other
variety has given a second crop of fruit with me.” In addition to the
foregoing, other instances of Strawberries fruiting this autumn have
come under our notice.

_ Potatoes in Lincolnshire. — We learn from a northern

contemporary tba*' fie Potato harvest in the Fen district of Lincoln¬
shire is now completed “ Generally speaking, it has been one of the
best experienced for several years, and those who risked planting a
large acreage with the tuber have had no cause to regret having done
so. The early varieties especially made some very high prices, and
several growers made as much as £20 per acre, exclusive of the cost of
digging the crop. The season has been an exceptionably favourable
one, and owing to the absence of rain very little disease has been
noticed, and consequently less labour has been required for picking and
sorting. Magnum Bonum, which is a variety much grown in the Fen
district, has yielded heavily, and there are numerous instances- notably
amongst allotment occupiers — where the crops have yielded at the rate
of 7 and 8 tons to the acre.”

876

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 26, im

- Flowers at Dulwich Park. — Ta this park are to be found

numerous remarkable evidences of the abnormal season. The Dahlias
are still blooming profusely ; .^onal Pelargoniums are almost as bright
as ever; Weigela rosea is ilo^vering here and there, as also are the
Guelder Eoses. The beautiful Gentiana acaulis is blooming in different
places on the rockeries ; whilst Eoses, especially of the Monthly types,
are numerous. — W. J. K.

- Horticulture in Germany.— A continental contemporary

says that Dr. L. Wittmack has been charged to furnish for the exposition
at Chicago statistical instructions upon horticulture in the German
empire. His highly remarkable work comprehends all branches of
horticulture. Amongst other things, it is stated that Germany con¬
tained in 1892, 17,699 horticultural establishments and nurseries, employ¬
ing about 45,000 employes.

- Dahlias from Tottenham. — Mr. T. S. Ware, Hale Farm

Nurseries, Tottenham, N., sent us last week a box of Dahlia blooms,
comprising those of the decorative. Cactus, and Pompon types. The
flowers were exceedingly fresh and beautiful for the late period. Among
the Cactus and decorative varieties were Mrs. F. Vince, purplish pink ;
Mary Picton, lemon yellow ; Baron Schroder, bright magenta ; St.
Catherine, yellow suffused red ; Beauty of Arundel, magenta, deep
centre ; and Mrs. Keith, salmon pink, lemon yellow centre. Of the fine
selection of Pompons, Eevenge, Eva, Marion, and Little Sweetheart
were the best.

- Ligustrum Ibota. — Our transatlantic contemporary, the

“ Garden and Forest,” has an excellent illustration of this plant in the
issue for October 11th, and remarks that the North China and Japanese
Ligustrum Ibota is certainly one of the best exotic shrubs introduced
into our gardens for many years. The long, slender, arching branches
give to it a light and graceful habit in marked contrast with that of
the other species of this genus, which are usually stiff and rigid in
habit. Late in the month of June, from the end of short lateral
branches, the clusters of white flowers hang in great profusion, giving
to the plants a charming effect of grace and lightness. The flowers are
followed by abundant blue-black berries, which remain on the branches
until the beginning of winter, and make the plant interesting during
several of the autumn months. Ic America Ligustrum Ibota promises
to grow to a height of 8 or 10 feet, although, as it appears in the moun¬
tains of Japan, where it is by no means a common plant, it rarely rises
to half that height. Ligustrum Ibota will, perhaps, become as com¬
pletely naturalised in some parts as Ligustrum vulgare and Berberis
vulgaris have become naturalised in eastern New England, for when
they are planted in semi-wild situations numerous seedlings spring up,
and are able to hold their own against the encroachments of native
plants. This Japanese Ligustrum may be safely used whenever large,
hardy, fast-growing shrubs are needed.

- The Ehine Tineyarus. — A German official return relating

to the value of the Government vineyards in what was formerly the
Duchy of Nassau, now a part of the Prussian district of Wiesbaden, is
summarised in a recent report from the United States Consul at
ilayence. The total net profit from all the crown vineyards during the
last twenty-four years amounted to £94,225, or £3,926 per year in round
numbers. These vineyards have an aggregate area of about 192 acres,
which would make the average net profit annually per acre about £20.
Taking the estimated value of the vineyards to be approximately £628
an acre, 3j per cent, would be the average annual rate of income derived
from them. But these vineyards are amongst the very best in the
country, and their produce commands commensurately high prices.
The expenses connected with the management of them are great, and
the capital they represent is considerable, but their wines are of the
finest, and are in great demand. These wines bring the highest prices
in the market, being sold for the most part directly to the consumer,
thus giving the coffers of the crown the benefit that would otherwise
accrue to the wine-dealer. The ordinary wine-grower is not so favour¬
ably situated as the Government, and cannot as a rule make so much
out of his property. His wine is much inferior, and his ability to fix his
own prices feeble in comparison. It cannot, therefore, be supposed that
he makes as much as 3| per cent, a year on the average out of his vine¬
yards. The vineyards, in fact, are not paying, as only from 2 to
3 per cent, per annum can be made out of them on the average. Many
are worked at a loss, as the yield had been inferior in quality or in
quantity for some years. The difficulty is that they have been bought
at such high valuations that there is no money in them for their owners.
The dealer it is who makes the profit.

- WooLTON Gardeners’ Mutual Improvement Society. —

The second meeting of the above Society was held on Thursday last,
Mr. E. G. Waterman reading a very able paper on “ Soils and Eotation
of Crops.” As showing the mildness of the season, Mr. Stoney stated
that he had that day gathered fine ripe Strawberries outdoors, the
variety being Due de Malakoff. Prizes will be given for essays on
various subjects during the ensuing season. The concert recently held
in the Parochial Hall, after all expenses — which were heavy — ^had been
paid, left a balance of over £5. A vote of thanks to Chairman and
Lecturer closed the meeting.

- Autumn Easpberries. — Mr. W. H. Godden, Ledgers, War-

lingham, Surrey, writes : — “ In last week’s issue (page 355) Mr. Free¬
man gives an instance of gathering ripe Strawberries in the open. I
gathered a dish of ripe Easpberries on the 18th inst. weighing If lb.,
very fine fruit and well coloured, and the flavour was fairly good. I
consider this wonderful, considering I am nearly 600 feet above sea level,
and clay subsoil.” Mr. W. Stanton, The Gardens, Billington Manor,
Leighton Buzzard, also writes : “ On October 19th I found a large
cluster of Easpberries quite ripe, and of fair size. We have had only
two slight frosts here. We have had an abundant supply of Eunner
Beans up till the present.”

- Lime Salts in Plants. — At a meeting of the biological

section of the British Association Dr. J. Clark gave the result of
investigations on the action of lime on germination in plants, and the
existence of lime salts in plant tissue. He had experimented with a
number of seeds of Alpine plants with the object of germinating them,
and he found that the presence of carbonate of lime in the soil greatly
assisted the germination of the seeds of these plants. According to his
conclusions upon the question one must in many cases either have a
high temperature, to enable the plant to utilise the reserve food supply
in the seed, or introduce lime into the soil, which lime helped the
transference of food from the seed to the growing parts of the
seedling.

- Uraria crinita. — This, remarks Mr. G. Nicholson in a recent

issue of the “ Garden and Forest,” is a striking plant with pinnate
leaves, not unlike those of the Wistaria, and tall dense racemes of small
rose-purple flowers ; seeds of this species sown early in the present
year have produced stocky, handsome plants with racemes more than
a foot in length and about 1^ inch in thickness. The flowers
themselves are small and last but a short time, but the very numerous
rosy-pink bracts are as attractive, or even more so, before the flowers
open, than the latter are when at their best. The species occurs in a
wild state from Ceylon, the Himalaya to China. A figure has been pre¬
pared for the “ Botanical Magazine.” The specific name has been given,
owing to the long bristles which clothe the pedicels and sepals. The
plant is of easy cultivation in a light, warm house.

- Large Soft Apples. — My experience with regard to large

Apples is in accord with that of your correspondent “ A.” (page 355).
Very soon after gathering all my largest specimens, of several varieties,
began to decay, the worst being Winter Hawthornden and Nelson’s
Glory. Some became quite mealy and cracked, others were spotted with
dard coloured spots. On the rind being removed these spots were of a
brown colour, and penetrated the flesh to a considerable depth. Pears,
too, are ripening very rapidly, owing, I suppose, to the warm weather we
are having. Marie Louise Pears are all ripe and gone, the quality having
been excellent. I have to-day (October 21st) a dish of Huyshe’s Prince
of Wales quite ripe, which is too early for that variety ; and I regret to
find Huyshe’s Victoria, which usually stands me in good stead about
Christmas, much further advanced in ripening than is desirable. — T. S,,
Bristol.

- Sternbergia lutea is a plant of the season which seems to

be much neglected, yet the bulbs are easily secured. They increase
rapidly, and a clump in flower is as effective, and not less pleasing, than
the Crocus in the spring. The bulbs start into growth in early September,
making about 6 inches of leaf growth, the flowers appear in late
September. These are something over 2 inches in diameter, are borne
on 6-inch scapes, are of a clear deep yellow, and Crocus-like in effect.
The leaves are persistent during the winter, and complete their growth
in the spring, when the bulbs ripen and become dormant. It is needless
to say that bulbs of this kind should be protected from the careless
spader. The autumn-flowering hardy bulbs, says a correspondent in an
American contemporary, have an unexpectedness in coming into evidence
which we are apt to associate with the flowers of spring, and some of
them are scarcely less pleasing than those always favourite flowers.

October 26, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

877

- Michaelmas Daisies. — As with the border devoted entirely

to these plants at Chiswick we planted one here with them last autumn,
and undoubtedly this ii the correct manner to cultivate and appreciate
them at the same time. Owing to the extremely dry weather
experienced this summer some of the plants made but moderate
progress, especially the larger flowered sorts ; these do not appear to
be able to withstand drought so well as the small flowering kinds, of
which Elegans is an example. Next year we hope for a good display.
The roots will by then have become thoroughly established. In addition
to those named by “ C.” (page 349) the following varieties of the
A. novae-belgi type are worthy of a place in any collection — versicolor
densus, lilac ; formosissimus, deep blue, free and good. Snowflake is
especially worthy a place, the pure white blooms are useful in a cut
state. Chapmani, pale blue, of loose growth, yet free flowering and
good. Elegans, deep lilac, small flowers, wonderfully profuse in its
blossoms. Ericoides is one of the best of the late-flowered kinds with
pure white flowers, the foliage of this assumes quite a coppery hue,
which enhances the beauty of the variety. The best of all, in my
opinion, is A. ericoides elegans, pure white and wonderfully free,
dwarf in growth. A. alpinus, 1 foot high, is a gem for the rockery.
— E. M.

- Plant Industries in the Caucasus. — The following

interesting particulars respecting the wine industry carried on in the
Caucasus are taken from the report of the Statistician of the United
States Department of Agriculture for J une, 1893 : — Of highest importance
for the present and the future of the country is wine growing. The
production does not only suffice for home consumption, but supplies to a
large extent the wants of Russia, and besides, furnishes a considerable
quantity for export. The efforts of Russia for the advancement of this
branch of rural industry are praiseworthy. Under Ottoman rule viti¬
culture could not flourish, as its object was confined to the production
of table Grapes, and thus it remained on a level with the culture of
other fruits. A changed political situation, introduction of new customs,
and the effectual assistance of the Russian Government, have shown the
rural population a rich source of income in wine growing. Prince
Michael Waronzow, the Governor of Caucasia, procured in the year 1848
120,000 Vines from his own vineyards in the Crimea and from the most
celebrated vineyards of Europe, in order to distribute them among the
inhabitants of sections adapted to viticulture. Not all of them did well ;
the varieties have been crossed ; but a beginning had been made, an
impulse given, and this profitable branch of rural industry has developed
gradually to its present flourishing condition. There are still a few
drawbacks, otherwise the results of this industry would have been
enormous. There is, above all, the Phylloxera, which has made consider¬
able progress during the last few years. The war upon this plague is
waged only on the large estates of rich landowners, while the majority
of small vineyards is open to the disease. The damage is largest in the
governments of Tiflis and Elizabethpol. In Erivan the winter frosts
damage the Vines materially. The vineyards of the Caucasus cover an
area of 86,000 desatines (232,174 acres), and their annual production is
estimated at 13.000,000 vedros (42,237,000 gallons). The average price
of Caucasian wine is generally about 25 cents per gallon, and goes up to
30 cents only in years of crop failure. Notwithstanding the fact that a
desatine of land adapted to viticulture costs 1000 roubles (182 dollars
per acre), this industry proves to be highly profitable, as the net profit
averages from 380 to 400 roubles per desatine (70 dollars to 75 dollars
per acre).

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

October 24th.

There was a very fine display at the Drill Hall on this occasion,
the building being well filled. Orchids were exceptionally well repre¬
sented, as were Dahlias and Chrysanthemums. Fruit and vegetables
were also exhibited in excellent condition.

Fruit Committee. — Present : Philip Crowley, Esq. (in the chair),
with Rev. W. Wilks, Dr. Hogg, and Messrs. H. F. Pearson, T. F. Rivers,
Arthur W. Sutton, Harrison Weir, G. W, Cummins, J. Cheal, G. Bun-
yard, G. Woodward, W. Warren, J. Hudson, G, Sage, J, Smith,
G. Norman, H. Balderson, A. Dean, J. Wright, and others whose names
were not obtained,

Mr. J. Perkins, The Gardens, Thornham Hall, Eye, sent a seedling
Melon Thornham Hero, apparently a scarlet-fleshed Hero of Lockinge.
The season being too late for judging Melons satisfactorily, the Com¬
mittee desired that this promising variety be sent in the summer. Mr.
Owen Thomas sent a seedling Melon Frogmore Late, white fleshed,
sweet, and very juicy. The fruit had passed its best condition, though
the rind was firm, and no award was made. Mr. A, G. White, Bow

Hill, near Maidstone, sent a dish of his seedling Apple Bow Hill
Pippin, fine fruits, resembling a Blenheim, but with a deep yellow
ground, and a little of the character of King of the Pippins ; an Apple
of promise, and an award of merit was adjudged. Mr. R. Weller,
Glenstal Gardens, Murroe, Co. Limerick, sent a very good dish of
Ribston Pippin Apples, and a vote of thanks was accorded. Mr. G. Paul
sent a seedling Apple Captain Sandars, raised from Dumelow’s Seedling,
fruits large but soft, incipient decay having set in with some of them.
No award. Mr. W. Crump sent dishes of a local Herefordshire Apple of
the Codlin character, with the red flush of Hollandbury, known as
“ Captain Tom.” Though good, it was not considered better than exist¬
ing varieties.

Mr. G. R. Allis, Old Warden Gardens, Biggleswade, sent small
bunches of ripe Gros Colman Grapes, grown against an open wall
without protection, also a dish of ripe Tomatoes from self-sown seed,
as indicative of the tropical character of the summer (vote of thanks.)
Mr. John Basham, Fair Oak Gardens, Bassaleg, Monmouth, sent
specimens of large green curled Savoy and a dwarf early Ctbbage.
Though good samples they were not considered sufficiently distinct to
merit an award. Mr. Barron sent from Chiswick splendidly blanched
samples of the white Batavian Endive, the true compact form; also
samples of Vilmorin’s Queen of Winter, taller, but not better, and a
cultural commendation was accorded.

Extensive displays of produce, both fruit and vegetables, were
arranged on the side tables. A considerable number of Apples were
sent by the Government of Nova Scotia, and though some of the fruits
were fine, and the whole bright and tender-looking, as if grown under
glass, yet many were small and affected with fungus. The samples, as
a whole, were not by any means equal to those exhibited by Mr. J. H.
Goodacre as grown at Elvaston in Derbyshire— a feather in the good
gardener’s cap, who has now defeated a government. His collection
comprised about eighty dishes of Apples, some of them very fine indeed,
and nearly all highly coloured, several appearing as if polished arti¬
ficially. There were also about sixty dishes of excellent Pears, and a
silver-gilt Banksian medal was recommended. A similar honour was
granted for a remarkably fine display of forty-eight bunches of Alicante
and Gros Colman Grapes, and about sixty dishes of Apples and Pears,
staged by Mr. S. Mortimer, Rowledge, Farnham, Messrs. T. Rivers and
Son exhibited several dishes of magnificent Pears, and very fine Apples
of leading varieties, and a silver Banksian medal was unanimously
recommended.

An extraordinary display of Onions was made by Mr. H. Deverill,
Banbury, in all the leading exhibition varieties that are associated with
the name of the exhibitor. There must have been about a ton of bulbs,
several of them of gigantic proportions, and weighing 2 lbs. to 3 lbs. each.
They afforded striking evidence of what can be accomplished by high
culture and well selected stocks. A silver-gilt Knightian medal was
recommended for this remarkable collection.

Not less imposing, more varied, and altogether excellent was an
exhibit of produce by Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading, which extended
along one side of the Hall. The collection included an imposing pile of
Sutton’s Early Gem Carrot, fine well coloured clean roots all of the
same size ; plants of the Arctic Green and the Arctic Purple Kale,
dwarf, sturdy, and hardy looking, and we are told they are as hardy as
they look ; wonderfully fine Sutton’s Autumn Giant Cauliflower, some
of immense size, yet several as close and white as could be desired ;
superb heads of Sutton’s Magnum Bonum Cauliflower, not so large as
the preceding but of the first quality ; thick fleshy green pods of the
Prizewinner Runner Bean with slate-coloured dark mottled seeds to
show the distinctness of the variety ; a pile of Sutton’s Snowball
Turnips, models of their kind ; also a highly meritorious collection of
Onions of the varieties so clearly described on page 362 last week. Very
large, clean symmetrical bulbs were shown as grown for exhibition ;
also not less shapely samples produced under ordinary culture and
selected for planting for seed production. For this extensive display
a silver-gilt Knightian medal was unanimously recommended.

Floral Committee. — Present: W. Marshall, Esq. (in the chairj;
the Rev. H. H. D’Ombrain, Messrs. J. Laing, R. Owen, H. Herbst,
R. Dean, H. B. May, G. Stevens, R. B. Lowe, C. F, Bause, J. Jennings,
C. J. Salter, J. D. Pawle, \V. Bain, W. Furze, T. Baines, C. E. Pearson,
W. H. Williams, J. Walker, J. T. Bennett Poe, H. Cannell, C. E. Shea
and G. Paul.

A grand collection of Chrysanthemums was arranged by Messrs,
Jas. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea, amongst the best of which were Col, W. B.
Smith, Beauty of Exmouth, Mrs. Falconer Jameson, Bouquet des Dames,
Viviand Morel, Louis Boehmer, and Miss Anna Hartzhorn (silver Flora
medal). Mr. Jennings, gardener to L. de Rothschild, Esq., Ascot, sent a
basket of grandly flowered plants of Begonia Gloire de Lorraine (first-
class certificate). Mr. C. Holden, 61, Warwick Road, Ealing, showed a
large plant of Chrysanthemum Soeur Mdlanie, upon which there were
said to be 2000 buds and blooms (bronze Banksian medal). A fine col¬
lection of Crotons was exhibited by Messrs. B. S, Williams & Son,
Upper Holloway, amongst which Warreni, Queen Victoria, Williamsi,
mutabilis, and Princess of Wales were noticeable (silver Flora medal).
Mr. Bain, gardener to Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford Lodge,
Dorking, showed blooms of Anthuriums, including Laingi, Leodense,
Andreanum sanguineum, Lindeni flora carmine (flrst-claos certificate),
Andreanum, and two white seedlings. Pentstemon antirrhoides was
also staged by the same exhibitor. Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Lowfield

878

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 26, 1893

Nursery, Crawley, arranged a fine stand of Dahlias. The Cactus section
were finely represented, amongst the best being Professor Baldwin,
Crawley Gem, Duchess of York, Amphion, and Sir F. Montefiore (award
of merit, see below). Single varieties were also well exhibited, especially
Lady Whitehead, The Bride, Florrie Fisher, and Mrs. Parrott (award of
merit, see below). The show and fancy section were also shown, some
fine blooms being staged (silver-gilt Flora medal). Mr. Wm. Pearce,
gardener to G. Loder, Esq., Floore House, Weedon, showed five very
beautiful specimens of DavalLa fijiensis plumosus. Messrs. H. Cannell
and Sons, Swanley, were w'ell represented by magnificent single Begonias
and Chrysanthemums. The latter included Wm. Seward, Mdme. Le
Blanc, Mdme. Edouard Key, International, and Eda Brass amongst others.
For Cactus Dahlia Cannell’s Brilliant an award of merit was accorded
(see below). A bronze medal was recommended for the collection.
Messrs. Keynes, Williams & Co., Salisbury, staged blooms of the single
Cactus Dahlias. C. E. Shea, Esq., The Elms, Foots Cray, showed a
small but highly creditable stand of Chrysanthemums, which included
Sylphide, Miss Dulcie Schroeter, The Tribune (award of merit, see
below), and Bouquet des Dames.

Messrs. Cutbush & Sons, Highgate, exhibited an attractive collection
of Pernettyas, amongst the best of which were rosea, atro-sanguinea,
alba, and macrocarpa (silver Banksian medal). Mr. T. S. Ware, Hale
Farm Nurseries, Tottenham, N., arranged a charming group of
Cactus Dahlias, in which Mrs. Vince, Duke of Clarence, Mrs. Hawkins,
Baron Schroder, and Delicata were conspicuous (silver Flora medal).
Mr. E. Owen, Maidenhead, showed some grand Chrysanthemums,
amongst the most noteworthy of which were Herbert Fowler (award of
merit, see below), Kose Wynne, Eichard Dean, and Miss M. Simpkins
(award of merit, see below). The same exhibitor also staged a collec¬
tion of small-flowered Chrysanthemums. Mr. Geo. Stevens, St, John’s
Nurseries, Putney, S.W., received an award of merit for Chrysanthemum
Madame M. Eicaud (see below). Mr. W. Wells, Earlswood Nurseries,
Eed Hill, staged a creditable group of Chrysanthemums, amongst the
best of which were Wm. Seward, Majestic, Sunflower, Avalanche,
Puritan, Prince Alfred, and Cmsare Costa. Messrs. J. Laing & Son,
Forest Hill, S.E., staged a grand group of miscellaneous plants, for
which a silver Flora medal was recommended. Begonias, Chrysanthe¬
mums, Palms, Crotons, and a few Orchids were particularly prominent
(silver Flora medal). Mr. Anthony Waterer, Knaphill, Woking, had a
collection of hardy shrubs (silver Flora medal).

Oechid Committee.— Present : Harry J, Veitcb, Esq. (in the
chair) ; Messrs. Jas. O’Brien, H. M. Pollett, A. H. Smee, Thos. Statter,
Jas. Douglas, Henry Williams, J. Jacques, S. Courtauld, T. B. Haywood,
Ed. Hill, C. J. Lucas, and F. Sander.

Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Eoyal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea, sent a large
collection, comprising some very choice forms. Cattleyas were con¬
spicuous in this contribution, especially C. labiata, C. Bowringiana, and
the beautiful C. Harris!. Some charming bigeneric hybrids, including
Lmlio-cattleya Eumrea, L.-c. Cassiope, L.-c. pisandra (first-class certi¬
ficate) were also shown by Messrs. Veitch & Sons, as were several
excellent hybrid Cypripediums, including C. Clonius, for which a first-
class certificate was awarded (silver-gilt Flora medal). Messrs. Hugh
Low & Co., Clapton, had a well arranged group of Cattleyas, Odonto-
glossums, and Cypripediums, which made a fine display (silver
Banksian medal). The same may be said of the large collection
of Cattleya labiata in variety staged by Messrs. Charlesworth, Shuttle-
worth & Co., Heaton, Bradford. These plants were large and remark¬
ably well flowered. The same Arm exhibited the new Cypripedium
Charlesworthi, which was certificated a few weeks ago (silver-gilt
Banksian medal). G. F. Poston, Esq., Bishopsford, Mitcham, sent two
Cattleyas ; and W. M. Appleton, Esq., Weston-super-Mare, had some
fine Cattleyas, O lontoglossums, and Cypripediums. Awards of merit
were adjudged for Cattleya labiata and Dendrobium Phalaenopsis
Appleton’s var.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St Albans, had a bright group of Cattleyas
and other Orchids, including a splendid form of Dendrobium Phalte-
nopsis Schrbderianum. First-class certificates were awarded for
Cattleya labiata var. Sanderiana, and C. Lord Eothschild, magnificent
varieties, which are described elsewhere (a silver Flora medal was
recommended for the group.) G. D. Oven, Esq., Selwood, Eotherham
(gardener, Mr. Mark Watts), secured an award of merit for Cattleya
Hardyana, Selwood var. This is described elsewhere. The same
exhibitor had Cattleya labiata alba. Messrs. Heath & Sons, Cheltenham,
sent some Cypripediums, including: a good form named C. insigne albens
(award of merit.) W. C. Clarke, Esq., Sefton Park, Liverpool (gardener,
Mr. T. Jones), secured an award of merit for Cypripedium insigne
Clarkei, a description of which will be found below.

Messrs. Linden, L’Horticulture Internationale, Brussels, sent a
number of choice species and varieties, and awards of merit were
adjudged for Cattleya Warocqueana Imschootiana and Paphinia grandis
var. gigas. Description of these will be found below. Botanical certifi¬
cates were also awarded for Dendrobium lamellatum and Pholidota
convallarioides. Mr. H. Little, The Barons, Twickenham, sent a number
of .Cypripediums, and Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., had Cypripedium
conco-Lawre and Cirropetalum amatissimum, for which a first-class
certificate was awarded, Messrs. Lewis & Co., Southgate, N., sent a
brightly coloured group, composed principally of Cattleyas and Lfelias,
and for which a silver Banksian medal was recommended. Mr. T. Statter,
Stand Hall, Manchester, secured a first-class certificate for Cypripedium
btatterianum, which is described elsewhere.

Certificates and Awards of Merit.

Anthtirium Lindeni flora carmine (Sir T. Lawrence). — This has very
large spathes of a carmine colour (first-class certificate).

Begonia Gloire de Lorraine (L. de Eothschild, Esq.). — A beautiful
variety of compact habit, and bearing masses of biight pink flowers
(first-class certificate).

Cattleya labiata (W. M. Appleton, Esq.). — A sp’endid form of this
favourite Orchid. The sepals and petals are of a rosy hue, the lip
purplish crimson with a well defined white margin (award of merit).

Cattleya labiata var. Sanderiana (F. Sander & Co.). — This is a
very fine form, being much darker than C. labiata Sanderas. The sepals
and petals are deep rosy mauve, the lip purplish crimson with a distinct
white margin (first-class certificate).

Cattleya Hardyana Selwood var.(G. D. Owen, Esq.) — A fine variety
with large flowers of an attractive character. The sepals and petals are
rosy mauve veined white, the lip being rich maroon with a yellow
blotch on each side of the throat (award of merit).

Cattleya Lord Rothschild (F. Sander & Co.) — This is a magnificent
new hybrid. It is a cross between C. Gaskelliana and C. aurea. The
sepals and petals are pale rosy mauve, the lip being the most striking
feature in the flower. This is large, of a rich purplish crimson, with a
crimped white margin, the throat and basal portion being orange yellow
veined white and rosy magenta (first-class certificate).

Cattleya Warocqueana Imschootiana (Linden, Brussels), — A beau-
tiful flower, with large petals and sepals of a blight purplish rose
shade. The centre of the lip is rich crimson, the edging being fimbrated,
pale margin (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Ryecroft Glory (H. Cannell k Sons). — A charming
reflexed variety, with medium sized flowers of a rich yellow colour. A
useful decorative Chrysanthemum (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum W. H. Foioler (E. Owen). — This is a Jajanese with
straight yellow coloured petals of perfect form (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Miss 31. Simphins (E. Owen). — A pure white in¬
curved Japanese of great substance and superb shape (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Madame 31. Ricaud (G. Stevens). — A meHum sized
flower of a deep rose pink colour (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum The Tribune (C, E, Shea and H. J. Jones). — A broad
petalled, lemon-yellow coloured Japanese variety of grand form (award
of merit).

Cirropetalum amatissmum (Sir T. Lawrence). — A curious looking
flower of a dull brownish colour, the lip being reddish brown (first-class
certificate).

Cypripedium Clonius (J. Yeitch & Sons). — This is an exceedingly
interesting hybrid of a chaste colour. It is the result of a cross between
C. caudatum Lindeni and C. conchiferum. The dorsal sepal is long and
pointed, as are the petals, with tail-like appendages ; both sepal and
petals are white, veined green, the lip also being white, spotted brown
(first-class certificate).

Cypripedium Statterianum (T. Statter, Esq.). — This is a richly
coloured Cypripedium. It is the result of a cross between C. Spicer-
ianum magnificum and C. vexillarium superbum. The dorsal sepal is
rose coloured with a white margin, the petals and lip being brown
(first-class certificate).

Cypripedium insigne albens (Heath & Son). — A distinct form with
a well defined white tip on the dorsal sepal. The lip and petals resemble
those of the type (award of merit).

Cypripedium insigne Clarhei (W. C. Clarke). — This is a good form of
the w'ell known type. The dorsal sepal is very distinct, having a broad
white margin. The lip and petals are similar to those of C. insigne
(award of merit).

Dahlia, CannelVs Brilliant (H. Cannell k Sons). — A rich velvety
crimson coloured Cactus variety with a deeper centre (award'of merit).

Dahlia Sir F. 3Ionteflore (J. Cheal k Son). — This is a very grandly
formed Cactus flower of a rich velvety maroon shade (award of merit).

Dahlia 3Irs. Parrott (J. Cheal k Son). — A small single flowered
variety having white and red petals (award of merit).

Dendrobium Phadwnopsis, Appleton's var. (W. M. Appleton, Esq.).
— The lower part of the sepals and petals are white, the lips being rosy
magenta, the lip similarly coloured (award of merit).

Loelio- Cattleya Pisandra (J. Veitch k Sons). — The sepals and petals
of this charming begeneric hybrid are pale rosy mauve, the lip being a
very rich maroon with yellow in the throat (first-class certificate).

Paphinia grandis var. gigas (Linden, Brussels). — The flower of this is
larger than the type. It is tipped and spotted with reddish brown, the
centre being white (award of merit).

Lecture on Onions.

Mr. A. Dean, after tendering to the exhibitors of Onions at the
meeting grateful thanks for the effective illustration of the subject of
his paper that day, dealt with the various forms or species
of Alliums in cultivation, including Onions proper. Leeks, Shallots,
Potato Onions, and Tree Onions, and then referred to the Onion trial
conducted at Chiswick, describing its character, and the reasons for the
awards made by the Fruit Committee in connection with the trial,
defending the action as against some criticism in the press and else¬
where. Then came descriptions of the diverse forms into which Onions
are divided, white, yellow, brown, and red of colour, and of flat, round,
and globular in shape. Special emphasis was laid on the fact that

October 26, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

879

keeping properties in the Onion seem to be least in the white-skinned
section, and best in the red Onions, also that the deep globular forms
invariably kept better than did the flat bulbs, and asked what were
the causes that led to such results. The present size to which
exhibition Onions are grown came in for strong and adverse criticism,
the lecturer holding that they served no good purpose, did not keep
well, and were not profitable to grow.

The method of growing them was also described, and the names of
the chief bulb producers mentioned. Some stress was laid on the profit-

AGLAONEMA ROTUNDUM.

As will be seen by referring to the illustration (fig. 56) this'is a
charming ornamental foliage plant. It is of a dwarf habit,' and is
suitable for growing in pots or pans in a stove. The leaves are oblong
ovate, from 4 to 5 inches in length, and about 3 inches in breadth. On
the upper surface they are rich green blotched with silvery grey, w’hich
deepens as the foliage matures. The under surface is pale green. The

Fia. 56.— AGLAONEMA EOTUNDUM.

able nature of the Onion as an ordinary crop, and one instance was
given showing that from 600 to 800 bushels of fine bulbs per acre had
resulted. Mention was also made as to the nature of the Onion as an
edible vegetable, some quotations in respect to best forms of cooking
being made from the Messrs. Sutton & Sons’ valuable little book, the
“ Art of Preparing Vegetables for the Table,” and it was pointed out
that diverse as were the uses of the Onion, under no circumstances were
bulbs more valuable as food than when properly boiled or baked.

plant, from a sketch of which the engraving has been prepared, was
exhibited at the Drill Hall, Westminster, on Tuesday, September 26th,
by Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Eoyal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea, when the
Floral Committee of the Eoyal Horticultural Society awarded a first-
class certificate for it. . This Aglaonema will form a fitting companion
to A. costatum, which -was illustrated and described in the Journal of
Horticulture for August 18th, 1892.

680

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Oatober 26, 1893,

Chkysanthemum Shows,

**■' We have received numerous intimations of Chrysanthemum shows
which are to be held during the next few weeks, but space can only be
found for the enumeration of those that have been advertised in our
columns up to date, of which the following is a list : —

Oct. Slat and Nov. Ist and 2ad. — Portsmouth.

Nov. 1st and 2ad. — Kent County (Blackheath).

,, 3rd and 4th. — Crystal Palace.

„ 7th and 8th. — National Chrysanthemum Society (Royal Aquarium),
Kingston, Liverpool, Leeds Paxton, Brighton, Watford.

„ 8th and 9th. — Northampton, Bournemouth.

„ 9th. — Birkenhead and Wirrall.

„ 10th and 11th. — Bradford.

,, 11th and 12th. — Ascot.

„ 14th and 15th. — Twickenham, West of England (Plymouth).

„ 15th and 16th. — Birmingham, Hull, Bristol, South Shields, Rugby.

„ 15th, 16 ih, and 17th. — Herefordshire.

„ 10th, 17th, and 18tb. — Scotland (Edinburgh).

„ 24th and 25th. — Eccles and Patricroft.

IttNER Temple Gardens.

The annual Exhibition of Chrysanthemums grown in the Temple
Gardens is now open and the plants on the whole make a good display.
They are arranged in the glass house that was erected last year in the
eastern corner of the gardens, Mr. John Newton, who for twenty-four
years has filled the post of head gardener to the Benchers of the Inner
Temple, has brought together an excellent show, equal in all respects to
its predecessors. The plants, which are vigorous and healthy, represent
all the best known varieties and include many new acquisitions. Among
the latter is noticeable Enfant des Deux Mondes, a white Louis Boehmer,
a large and finely developed descendant of this striking specimen of the
so-called hairy section. Another charming variety is Charles Davis, a
grand yellow flower of Viviand Morel parentage. Miss Minnie Newton
is a bloom of beautiful shape, golden bronze colour. Another successful
sport is the Mr, Charles E. Shea.

Among the other novelties are Colonel W, B. Smith, an old gold
colour, and the Papa Toussaint, a golden red and dark ochre yellow
both of which are in early stages yet, but promise to be fine specimens.
Caesare Costa is also well represented, and the Sylphide, a light chrome
yellow, is deepening its tint almost to orange. Among the older
varieties F. R. Davis, with its long, delicate crimson petals, Sunflower,
E. Molyneux, Gloire de Rocher, Louis Boehmer, J. Stanborough Dibbens,
and others are showing remarkably well. Comparatively few incurved
varieties are as yet expanded, and, therefore, intending visitors who take
the most interest in this section, may advantageously defer their visit
for a week or ten days, by which time the flowers will be at their best.
The exhibition remains open for six weeks.

Battersea Park.

The Show of Chrysanthemums arranged at this Park is in every
way a praiseworthy one. The plants are admirably grown, and are
palpable evidences of skilful management and unremitting attention.
There are upwards of 2000 plants on show, and they make a grand dis¬
play. Not only is improvement manifested in the plants, but likewise in
the structure and the arrangement. Last season the house was divided
by a partition in the centre, which detracted greatly from the general
effect. This partition Mr. Coppin, the Superintendent, has now removed,
and the plants are arranged on each side of the house with a path in the
centre. Notwithstanding the manifest improvements in the existing
house, and that better advantage has been taken of the space at dis¬
posal, the accommodation is still inadequate, and we can but surmise
what a magnificent display would be provided if Mr. Coppin had such a
place as the Albert Palace at his disposal. We can readily imagine what
the results would be if the Palace could be added to the Park and put
in the charge of the present Superintendent. In connection with the
Chrysanthemums the name of Mr. Tilbury must be mentioned, for the
Exhibition is to a large extent the result of his industry.

Regarding the individual plants we can find nothing for them but
praise, and they are in every way worthy of it, for they are thoroughly
grown, and carry grand flowers. It is yet early to form a final idea of
what the exhibition will be, as many hundreds of blooms have yet to
open. In another ten days the Show will be at its best. At the present
time the finest varieties in flower include Edwin Molyneux, of which
there are some superb examples ; Florence Davis, Avalanche, Lady
Selborne, Gloire du Rocher, William Seward, very fine; Mdlle. Elise
Dordan, Charlotte de Montcabrier, Gloire Rayonnante, Stanstead Sur¬
prise, Edouard Audiguier, Mons. William Holmes, Sunflower, Mr. Bunn,
Golden George Glenny, Jeanne d’Arc, and Georgeous amongst numerous
others. We are glad to know that the Show gains yearly in popularity,
and have no doubt that during the weeks that it remains open it will
be patronised by many thousands of people who take an interest in the
plants under their notice.

Dulwich Park.

Although Mr. Moorman, the able Superintendent of this beautiful
park, had no structure in which to show Chrysanthemums during the
autumn months, he has grown upwards of 600 plants ; these are now
coming into bloom, and they are a credit both to the grower and
to the County Council. Mr. Moorman is evidently a man of resource,
and as he had no proper house he has succeeded with the aid of pit-
lights, mats, strong cord, and stout quartering in erecting a makeshift
structure. Let us hope that such determination to give the inhabitants
of the surrounding district a look at the “ Autumn Queen ” will not
pass unrewarded, and that ere another season the authorities, who are
ever ready to cater for the wants of the public, will have erected a good
house, and such being done we should expect to find as excellent a
display at Dulwich as is now to be found at many of the other metro¬
politan parks.

That they can be grown as well there is ample evidence by those now
coming into bloom. Large flowers have not been the aim, but a goodly
number, and the plants are now carrying clean buds and a few blooms
on strong healthy plants which have grand foliage, and that almost to
the pots. Amongst the varieties now in bloom are Bouquet des Dames,
very good ; Florence Davis promises well, as do Viviand Morel,
Avalanche, and many others.

Out of doors the summer flowering section is grandly represented,
the plants forming bright and beautiful masses of colour. The well
known Piercy’s Seedling is magnificent, Flora is one of the most con¬
spicuous, Mrs. Hawkins is a pleasing yellow coloured variety, Mdlle.
Leoni Lassali is a grand white, and Mignon is a useful bright yellow
coloured dwarf variety. These plants are deserving of more atten¬
tion than is at present accorded to them, and they will doubtless grow in
favour as some of the improved kinds become known.

Southwark Park.

An improvement since last year is manifest in the structure for the
Chrysanthemums at this park, a large wing having been built on to
the existing house, and well has Mr. Bailey taken advantage of the
additional space placed at his disposal. The plants shown number
upwards of 2500, and all are in an excellent condition. The foliage is
stout, deep green in colour, and the blooms substantial and decidedly
above the medium size. The arrangement, too, is admirable, the plants
being staged in such a manner as to allow the best points of the flowers
to be seen at a glance. The colours are well diversified, and great care
has evidently been given to placing the plants so that the colours
should not clash. The collection is a highly creditable one, and great
credit is due to Mr. Bailey for his success in growing such a grand
display. Thousands of people are visiting the Show, and many are the
expressions of admiration accorded, and very deservedly so, to the beauty
of the flowers. In the densely populated district in which this park is
situated there are many who delight in such a display of Chrysanthe¬
mums, and all praise is due to the County Council for the manner which
they look to the wants and desires of the people of London.

It would be impossible to name all the varieties staged, they are far
too numerous, and as all are good the task of making a selection is
somewhat difficult, as so much depends on individual taste ; however,
all will doubtless appreciate the magnificent blooms of Condor and the
brightly coloured Gloire du Rocher. Not less beautiful are James Salter,
of which there are many exceptionally fine blooms ; Refulgens, Jeanne
d’Arc, both very fine, as also is the popular H. Shoesmith. Here, as
appears to be the case in many collections this season, Edwin Molyneux
is grand, the blooms being massive, and the colouration perfect. Amongst
the yellows Peter the Great must be accorded a prominent place, closely
followed by Gorgeous and Gloria Mundi. The chaste Elaine is admirably
represented, many of the blooms being of a high order of merit ; and
the same may safely be said of Puritan. Hairy petalled varieties are in
a minority, Louis Boehmer being the only one noticeable, but this was
fine, quality amply filling the place of quantity. Several plants of
Lady Selborne are carrying grand examples. Val d’Andorre promises
well, as (also does Caesar Costa. The blooms of Charlotte de Montcabrier
are very perfect on many of the plants, and Mons. Wm. Holmes must be
included amongst the best. Stanstead Surprise, George Gordon,
C. Orchard, Mons. Astorg, Leopard amongst numerous others were very
fine, and with these we must close our list.

Waterlow Park,

The Chrysanthemums in Waterlow Park, Highgate, are decidedly
better than they were last year, and Mr. R. Curie, the Superintendent,
may be congratulated on the collection he has brought together. The
plants are well grown and the buds are now fast expanding, the earlier
Japanese varieties being this week at their best. Most of the plants are
arranged in a small conservatory, a circular group occupying the centre,
whilst others are placed on each side. Amongst these are some
excellent blooms of the choicer sorts, which cannot fail to interest the
numerous visitors. Some new varieties are grown, the best of these
being William Seward, J. Shrimpton, and Beauty of Exmouth. The
last named is developing some magnificent blooms, which will justify
all that has been said in favour of this variety. Bouquet des Dames is
showing remarkably well, and the same may be said of Viviand Morel.
Mons. W. Holmes is in excellent character, the brilliant blooms showing
up conspicuously amongst others less brightly coloured. Some grand
buds of William Tricker are noticeable, and Stanstead White will be
seen in splendid condition shortly. Margot is carrying some fine
blooms, and the same applies to Miss A. Hartshorn. Such well-known

October 26, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

881

and useful varieties as Madame de Seven, La Triomphant, Mons.
Tarin, and Sunflower are also well represented and make a conspicuous
display. That charming white variety Avalanche is expanding some
excellent blooms of great substance, and the striking yellow Japanese
Gorgeus is making a fine show.

The incurved varieties are not yet very conspicuous, but some are
grown. A few good blooms of Mons. R. Bahuant were noticeable, and
some plants of Mrs. G. Bundle were developing fine flowers. In addition
to the Chrysanthemums arranged in the conservatory there are others in
three vineries, there being about 2000 plants grown. Grapes are hang¬
ing on the Vines, and on the front stages flowering and foliaged plants
are arranged, these adding further interest to the collection. On the
whole the display is a good one, and well worthy of a visit during the
next few weeks.

Finsbury Park.

For producing a display of Chrysanthemums Finsbury Park has
long been famous, but since the erection of a commodious structure for
this purpose by the London County Council, a few months ago, it is
likely to become even more noted in that respect. At all events this
fine building, which is lofty and upwards of 80 feet in length by about
25 feet wide, is a decide* improvement on the low house in which the
plants were formerly staged. The Chrysanthemums may now be
viewed with pleasure, and the thousands of visitors who will pass through
the house daily during the next few weeks may do so without any dis¬
comfort. The provision of this splendid structure is a commendable
act, and, it is hoped, one which will be extended to the other parks.

The house in question is situated near the Manor House entrance to
the park. There being plenty of room the plants are not so crowded as
are necessary in many instances, and this is an advantage so far as
displaying the habit of each plant is concerned. There are, of course,
some rather tall plants at Finsbury Park, but the majority of them are
comparatively dwarf, which enhances their appearance. All the
standard varieties are grown, and are now rapidly developing some fine
blooms. Mdlle. Marie Hoste, one of the finest whites in cultivation, is
promising well, and the same may be said of Bouquet des Dames. The
old Elaine is good and some fine blooms ol Viviand Morel and Mons.
Tarin are noticeable. Edwin Molyneux shows up conspicuously, as also
do Criterion, Mons. Freeman, Caesar Coste and Mr. C. E. Shea, the last
named being very fine. An Anemone flowered variety named Deleware
is obviously well grown here, as are some of the Pompon type. The
incurved varieties are not yet at their best, but some fine buds of Mons.
R. Bahuant, Golden Beverley and Comte de Germiny are developing.
These varieties and others will have grand flowers on them a week or
ten days hence.

As before remarked the plants are well grown, and the collection
as a whole reflects credit upon Mr. Melville, the Superintendent,
whose efforts in this direction are much appreciated by the residents of
northern suburbs of London,

The Priory, Hornsey.

In no private garden in the suburbs of the metropolis are Chrysan-
anthemums better grown than they are at The Priory, Hornsey. Here
Mr. E. Rowbottom, gardener to H. R. Williams, Esq., a gentleman well
known in horticultural circles on account of the interest he has dis¬
played in helping forward the fruit-growing industry, has for the past
three or four years produced some of the finest blooms that have ever
been exhibited, and this year apparently will prove no exception to the
rule now established. Skilful culture has left its mark, and it is safe
to prognosticate that Mr. Rowbottom will be well represented at the
leading exhibitions during the next few weeks. Last year he secured
a 10-guinea cup as his own, in addition to silver medals, and it is very
probable that this Hor^-sey grower will this season take a place amongst
the first rank of exhibitors.

When a Joiornal representative made a call last week he found Mr.
Rowbottom busily engaged amongst his favourite plants. These are
exceedingly well grown, and are now fast developing remarkably fine
blooms, especially the Japanese type. All the newer varieties are grown,
and many of these are likely to prove charming acquisitions. Mdlle.
Thdrise Rey, which is, perhaps, one of the finest creamy white varieties
now in cultivation, is showing splendidly, and no doubt will be seen on
the exhibition boards shortly. A certificate was granted for the variety
recently. A new Japanese variety named Edith Rowbottom is likewise
very fine, the blooms being large, well built, and of great substance.
This is a seedling raised by Mr. Rowbottom, and a certificate was
awarded for it at the Royal Aquarium the other week. President Borel.
for which Mr. Rowbottom has also gained a certificate this year, is
remarkable for its size and striking appearance. It has long purple florets
with a golden reverse. Kentish Yellow is grand, being massive in build,
and yet of a graceful appearance. Golden Dragon is in prime condition,
and the same applies to Primrose League, a pale yellow variety. Eda
Prass, an American seedling of the Japanese type, and for which a
certificate was granted recently, is also well represented at The Priory,
and apparently Mr. Rowbottom will repeat his success of last year with
Mdlle. Marie Hoste, inasmuch as some enormous blooms of that charming
variety are fast developing. The white Louis Boehmer is excellent, and
G. W. Childs will prove good. The favourite Col. W. B. Smith is in
grand condition, as also are numerous other choice varieties. Mr. Row-
bottom is likewise growing many seedlings of merit, about which
something will be heard later on.

The incurved varieties form a feature at The Priory, although
another week must elapse before these are seen at their best. The buds,

however, have been well timed, and at the forthcoming exhibitions
many grand flowers will be seen. Some splendid flowers of Madame
Darrier are noticeable, and Mrs. Brunlees is very fine. Mrs. Robinson
King, Lord Alcester, and John Lambert are likely to develop blooms of
extraordinary size and substance, and a good character is given the new
Vice-President Jules Barigney. Although rather a tall grower, th's is
likely to prove a useful incurved variety for exhibition. The flower is
large, similar to Lord Wolseley in build, and pale buff in colour.
Another new incurved, named Miss Bella Wilson, is splendid, and Mrs.
G. Bundle is exceedingly well grown at The Priory Gardens. Other
good incurves are Baron Hirch, Violet Tomlin, Mrs. Shipman, and Miss
Haggas. Many more varieties are deserving of mention as being
particularly fine, but space is limited, and for the present a brief
reference must suffice.

Chrysanthemums around Bournemouth.

Having spare time, and being much interested in Chrysanthemums,
I made a trip to Bournemouth to see how the plants were looking in
that locality, and thinking that remarks on our favourite autumn
flower will interest your readers, I send you a short account of my
excursion.

Cranmoor Lodge.

I paid my first visit to Cranmoor Lodge, the seat of Mrs. S. Elphinstone,
where I was courteously received by Mr. J. W. Taylor, the head gar¬
dener. The Chrysanthemums are arranged in sections in the Peach
houses and vineries. The plants range from about 4i feet to 7 feet in
height, and carry excellent foliage from the bottom. The more notable
blooms now showing are Mons. R. Bahuant, A. Salter, Golden Empress,
Mrs. R. King, J. Salter, Mr. Brunlees, J. Lambert, aud the Teck family.
Most noticeable amongst the Japanese were Beauty of Exmouth (the
coming flower of the season). Golden Dragon, Louise Boehmer, Mrs. C.
Wheeler, Mr.s. F. Jameson, J. S. Dibbins, Mrs. E. D. Adams, W. Seward,
the new Golden Viviand Morel (Beauty of Castlehill), which should
develop into a magnificent bloom. Mr. Taylor has several new varieties
with promising buds. There are about 350 plants for exhibition blooms
and the same number of cut-back plants for conservatory decoration.
Mr. Taylor won the cup in the cut bloom competition at the Bourne¬
mouth Chrysanthemum Show last season, and if the plants go on as
they promise he will be a formidable competitor this season. The
gardens are admirably managed throughout.

The New Royal Nurseries.

I next called upon Mr. Ratsch at the new Royal Nurseries, where he
has erected sixteen houses each 50 feet in length. Some are filled with
Chrysanthemums, mostly cut-backs. I noticed Lady Selborne, Source
d’Or, Buttercup, Ethel, and Lady Lawrence are extensively grown.
There are altogether about 5000 plants in excellent condition. Other
houses are filled with Carnations and winter-flowering plants, and there
are two houses of the Cbemin Rouge Tomato which are showing a fine
crop. Both houses and grounds show signs of good attention, and
visitors to Bournemouth will do well to call at these nurseries.

Palace Nursery.

Messrs. Watts & Sons have now about 7000 Chrysanthemums
arranged in their fine conservatory. The plants are grown in 10-inch
pots, and include all the leading varieties. Decorative plants are grown
in large numbers, in one house there are 1500 Tea Roses, Messrs. Watts
have given up growing Chrysanthemums for exhibition. They have
been very successful, winning four silver cups in the open class for
groups at the Bournemouth Show. The nurseries at Heath Farm and
Ensbury cover about 60 acres, and are well stocked. I recommend any
gardener or other person interested in horticulture of paying a visit to
Bournemouth to avail themselves of the opportunity of calling on the
gentlemen named. — A Gardener.

Chrysanthemums around Liverpool,

At The Hollies, Woolton, Mr, Vaughan has this year over 250 plants,
the greater portion of them being in excellent condition. In the
Japanese Etoile de Lyon, Florence Davis, W. Tricker, Bouquet des
Dames, Stanstead White, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, W. H. Lincoln, Mrs. F.
Jameson, Mons. Bernard, E. Molyneux, and Col. W. B. Smith are
amongst the best. In the incurved the Queens, John Salter, Empress
of India, Lord Wolseley, Jeanne d’Arc, Ami Hoste, and Madame Darrier
are all good. Mr. Vaughan has lost a great number of buds owing to
the plague of caterpillars.

Highfield, Woolton,

Mr. Haigh, gardener to W. H. Tate, Esq., grows about 600 plants,
and I never saw them look so promising. His best incurved are
Empress of India, Mons. R. Bahuant, Jeanne d’Arc, Madame Darrier,
all the Princess family, and new Baron Hirsch. The Japanese are
particularly fine, the best Lilian B. Bird, Florence Davis, Gloire du
Rocher, Puritan, Mrs. F. Jameson (grand), W. Tricker, A. H. Neve,
Stanstead White, Sunflower, and in the new section Mrs. C. H. Payne,
Lord Brooke, J. Shrimpton, W, Seward, Col. W. B, Smith, Mrs. Nisbet,
and Chas. Davis, the grand bronzy yellow sport from Viviand Morel.

Allerton House, Allerton.

Mr. George Eaton ought this year to be heard of if his collection of
plants is a criterion. The Japanese opening very freely include Boule
d’Or, Viviand Morrel, Mrs. F. Jameson, W. H. Lincoln, G. C. Schwabe,

382

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 26, 1893.

W. Tricker, Florence Davis, and of new ones Chas. Blick, Col. Smith,
\V. Seward, J. Shrimpton, Beauty of Exmouth, Lord Brooke, Mrs.
C. H. Payne, and Chas. Davis. The incurved are also most promising,
and include Queens, Princess, and sports, Mons. R. Bahuant, Jeanne
d’Arc, Madame Darrier, Baron Hirsch, Ami Hoste, and Madame
F. Mistral.

Alleeton Beeches,

There are about 340 plants grown here, and Mr. Edwards will doubtle.ss
give a good account of himself this season. The plants are dwarf and
healthy. The incurved are likely to produce good dowers, the Princess
family, Baron Hirsch (grand), Lucy Kendall, and Vice-President Jules
Barigny being very good. The Japanese are splendid, the best being
Stanstead White (superb), Mrs. F. Jameson, Mrs, Irving Clarke,
E. Molyneux, G. C. Schwabe, the newer ones being Chas. Davis (grand),
Lord Brooke, Beauty of Exmouth, Alcazar, Majestic, W. Seward, John
Shrimpton, Kentish Yellow, Miss Watson, Mrs. Hubback, Viscountess
Hambledon, Col. W. B. Smith, aad Primrose League.

Dove Paek, Woolton.

Mr. Carling has 300 or 400 plants, the finest being Viviand Morel,
Mrs. F. Jameson, La Verseau, E. Molyneux, W. H. Lincoln, Florence
Davis, W, Tricker, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, and Mons. Bernard : and in the
newer section Charles Davis, Colonel W. B. Smith, Princess May, Princess
Victoria, G. W. Childs, Ruth Cleveland, W, Seward, J. Shrimpton, Lord
Brooke, and Beauty of Castlewood. Incurved varieties include Princess
and Queen families, also Jardin des Plantes, Lord Wolseley, Baron
Hirsch, Alfred Lyne, a useful sport from Novelty ; and Madame Frederic
Mistral.

Camp Hill, Woolton.

Mr. Jellicoe has grown about 600 plants. The Japanese are
strong, and give great ])romise of superb flowers. The best are Bouquet
des Dames, Mrs. F. Jameson, W. Tricker, Etoile de Lyon, Gloire du
Rocher, Viviand Morel, Puritan, Mrs. E. W. Clarke, Florence Davis,
W. K. Woodcock ; and of the newer ones Robert Owen, Ruth Cleveland,
Mrs. C. H. Payne, Princess May, G. C. Schwabe, Lily Measures, Mr. G.
Herring, J. Shrimpton, Mrs. E. D, Adams, Beauty of Exmouth, William
Seward, and Charles Hubback. Amongst the incurved thirty plants
of Mons. R. Bahuant in different stages are conspicuous. Baron Hirsch
is also well grown, the blooms being large and massive. The Queen and
Princess types are all with good clean buds. Amie Hoste, Madame
Darrier, Jeanne d’Arc, and Madame F. Mistral are fine.

Mr. Jellicoe had pieces of clean white tiffany stretched about 1 foot
from the roof over all his best blooms. He fully believes that damping
is prevented by doing this, and I can fully bear him out, for there was
not a decayed pe’al. Those not covered damp badly.

Hillside, Alleeton.

Three hundred plants are grown here, and very promising they look
but are rather late. Queens and Princess types are fine, particularly the
latter. Hero of Stoke Newington is very good. The best Japanese are
W. Tricker, Gloire du Rocher, Puritan, Mrs. F. Jameson, Mdlle. Marie
Hoste, Felix Cassogneau, J. T. Kendall, Beauty of Exmouth, and Le
Verseau. If Mr. Healey can get h’s best blooms out he will be hard to
beat. I noticed here a fine reflexed variety named Mr. M. Sullivan.

Elm Hall, Waveeteee.

Mr. J. Bracegirdle grows 350 plants. The best incurved are Princess
of Wales, Mrs. Coleman, Mrs. Heale, and Miss Haggas all rightly
timed ; Alf. Salter, John Lambert, and Mons. R. Bahuant are cer¬
tain to turn out well. I fear he will be a little weak in the
Japanese as regards numbers, but substantial buds unfolding were
Lilian B. Bird, Mrs. F. Jameson, Boule d’Or, Florence Davis, Puritan,
G. C. Schwabe (extra), W. Tricker, Etoile de Lyon, Viviand Morel, Mrs.
J. Clarke, Mrs. J. S. Dibben, E. Molyneux, and Col. VV. B. Smith.
Reflexed were the most likely to pull him up a great deal, being extia
good,

Mossley House, Mossley Hill.

Mr. Heaney here grows 300 plants, most of them being dwarf, and
carrying grand massive buds. The Japanese particularly fine are Mrs.
F. Jameson, Mrs. E. W. Clarke, Mrs. C. H. Payne (splendid), Miss
Anna Hartshorn, Florence Davis, Boule d’Or, W. Tricker, G. C. Schwabe,
Viviand Morel, W. Seward, J. Shrimpton, La Verseau, Harry May,
Princess May, Chas. Blick, Puritan, Louis Boehmer, Col. W. B, Smith,
Chas. Davis, J. Stanborough Dibben (extra good), Silver King, and
Robert Owen. The incurved are just as good ; Queens and Princess
types fine, as also were Madame F. Mistral, Madame Darrier, Mons.
R. Bahuant, Jeanne d’Arc, and Baron Hirch.

Caldeestones.

Although not an exhibitor now, Mr. Tunnington’s w'ork is always
worthy of a note. This year he has the finest of plants and not so early as
many supposed they would be. He is the same opinion as others, that the
early buds of the Queen family will be very coarse, and it will be from
terminal buds that the best exhibition flowers will be produced. The
older varieties of incurved and Japanese are looking well. Baron
Hirsch is splendid, and praised by all who see it. He thinks it will
have to be grown on terminal buds for show purposes, owing to its being
inclined to come early. Lucy Kendall is a good yellow sport from Mrs.
Heale, but he fears confusion with it and Miss Haggas. In Japanese
Eda Prass is proving a good variety. Waban on early buds forms “ hen
and chicken ” flowers ; but late buds are opening well, as is also Beauty

of Exmouth, the same remark applying to William Seward. C. B.
Withnal is very promising. J. T. Kendall and R. C. Kingston are
showing remarkably fine flowers ; and Mrs. A. Jacobs, a yellow sport
from Madame Baco, promises well. Mr. Tunnington shares exactly the
same opinion as Mr. Jellicoe regarding the vexed question of damping,
believing that tiffany spread over the opening buds will prevent it, for
on a damp morning the tiffany may be seen hanging with beads of damp,
which would otherwise fall upon the flowers. — R. P. R.

Notes on Peize Schedules.

At the time of writing I have before me a list of ninety Chrys¬
anthemum Exhibitions to be held within the space of exactly four
weeks, commencing with Havant, October 27th, and finishing with Eccles
November 24th. As some readers have not an opportunity of inspecting
the schedules of prizes of the various meetings I purpose making a brief
reference to the manner of offering the principal awards at what are
termed the leading Shows.

As before remarked, Havant opens the Exhibition season on
October 27th. Portsmouth follows next on the 31st. this Exhibition
being held in one of the finest halls in the kingdom. The prizes offered
for competition are excellent, and some magnificent blooms are usually
seen at Portsmouth. The principal class is that for forty-eight cut
blooms, half Japanese and the remainder incurved, eighteen varieties
being required in each section. Prizes of £10, £7, £5, and £3 are
offered. As much as £5 for first is offered for twenty-four blooms in
another class. Chrysanthemums in pots, both trained and in groups,
receive liberal encouragement also.

Kent County Show, held in the Rink at Blackheath on November 1st,
is considered one of the best of the London Exhibitions. £10 are offered
as first prize for best thirty-six blooms, half incurved and the remainder
Japanese. Amateur classes are provided liberally, the prizes being quite
adequate in every respect. On the same date the annual Exhibition is
held in the Grand Stand at Ascot. In addition to cut blooms section groups
of Chrysanthemums are here seen at their best. The cultivators in the
neighbourhood make a special study of this system. On Friday,
November 3rd, the Crystal Palace Show opens. As it does not clash
with any other important meeting in the south it is certain to be well
attended by southern exhibitors. As is usual, the prizes are substantial
and the classes easily filled.

The succeeding week is a busy one ; no less than eleven shows are
held on Tuesday, November 7th, and the same number on the following
day. Foremost comes the Exhibition of the National Chrysanthemum
Society at the Royal Aquarium, Westminster. No less than forty-four
classes are provided for cut blooms alone. As first prize the challenge
trophy and £10 are offered as usual to horticultural societies for
competition, and is certain to induce a spirited contest. The “ Holmes ”
Memorial challenge cups are for incurved and Japanese blooms in separate
classes. In addition £7 are added in each case for the premier award.
No doubt the finest blooms available will be staged in these classes.
Extremely handsome prizes are offered in many other classes. A silver
cup and £4 for twenty-four distinct blooms in the Japanese section as
first prize should induce a keen competition. The Exhibition at
Kingston also opens on the same day. The interest here is increased by
the fact of its being the final year for competition of the challenge vase
offered in 1890, it having been won by three separate persons during
that time. In addition a new vase is offered of the same value, 25
guineas, as the older one, which will provide attraction to visitors and
exhibitors alike. For twenty-four varieties of incurved blooms a silver
cup, value 5 guineas, along with the cash prize of £3, is offered. The
conditions binding the competitors in the challenge vase classes are
deserving of note. The whole forty-eight blooms are confined to the
incurved and Japanese sections, but they must be distinct. Many
societies allow duplicates to be employed in halt-a-dozen instances, but
with such a rapidly increasing list of varieties these large classes ought
to be distinct. The interest is carried northwards on the 9th to
Birkenhead, on the 10th to Bradford and Derby, all of which can boast
of successful meetings.

Exeter, on November 10th, deserves a mention. Some of the finest
Japanese blooms in the south of England invariably find their way here.
Batley, Bacup, and Crewe prefer Saturday exhibitions. In all of these
districts Chrysanthemums are really well grown. Plymouth opens its
Show for the second season on the 14th, and £33 are offered in one
class for forty-eight blooms, £15 going to the first prizewinner. No
less than fifteen shews are set down for the following day, November 15th,
including Bristol, Birmingham, Hull, Reading, York, and Winchester.
The first-named place has long been famed for the trained plants.
Birmingham is an important meeting. The prizes for incurved blooms
are good ; £10 is the sum for the premier award in tw'enty-four distinct
varieties. Six prizes are offered in this particular class. The same con¬
ditions apply to the Japanese section. In other classes £3 is offered
for the best eighteen incurved blooms, and the same for Japanese.

At Hull the prizes are of the usual liberal character. For twenty-
four incurved blooms £10 and a silver cup as well is offered for first
prize Qcide Journal of Jlorticiolture, October 12tb, page 339). In the
premier Japanese class the prizes are the same as in the former. A new
class is provided, with a view to introducing a fresh method of arrang¬
ing Japanese blooms. A table space of 6 feet by 2 feet 6 inches is
allowed to each competitor for the twenty-four Japanese blooms stipu¬
lated for. Plants have their share of patronage.

The Scottish Exhibition opens at Edinburgh on November IGth, and
handsome prizes are offered in the leading classes. Bolton, Stockport,

October 26, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

383

and Sheffield hold their meetings on November 17th, and liberal prizes
are offered. Dundee and Ayr are set down for November 22nd. At the
latter place a silver cup, value £20, is offered in addition to the money
prize for eighteen Japanese blooms. — E. Molyneux.

NEW SELF CARNATIONS.

{Continued, from page 362.')

This section, although recognised by florists as exhibition flowers,
having all the good qualities of the “ Show ” Carnation in exquisite
form, size, breadth, and smoothness of petal and evenness of the edge,
and are quite unlike to ordinary serrated-edged kinds one so often
meets with, is always very much admired, for we have now many
charming shades of colour, from pure white to the deepest crimson
maroon, almost black. The exquisite shades of rosy pink and salmon,
light carmine, rosy purple and deeper purple, and numerous other
charming blending of shades, makes this a most interesting class, and
many of them are as richly perfumed as the old Clove Carnation. Rich
as we had become in varieties, the season of 1893 added several more
gems, and the following are amongst them.

Amur (Denary). — Bright rosy carmine, slightly flaked, a brilliant
handsome flower of fine quality.

Attraction (Chaundy). — Delicate soft pink, a large, bold flower,
valuable for its exquisite colour ; but it often comes with a split pod.

Albino (Chaundy). — A large white self with broad petals, and the
next best to Mrs. Fred, the latter being the finest white self Carnation
in cultivation.

Countess of Salisbury (Simonite). — An orange tinted yellow. This
flower was reported to beat Germania, but as seen about Birmingham
is very inferior to it.

Charmisso (Denary). — A distinct and very fine sort ; bright pink,
tinted maroon, with fine broad petal, and of fine form.

Circe (Dodwell). — Blush white, of fine form and quality.

Eunice (Chaundy). — Rosy pink of good form and substance.

Gustave Ereitag (Denary). — Much brighter in colour than Mrs.
Reynolds Hole, and with a broad petal, good form and excellent pod.

Gillert (Denary). — This is oHen called Gilbert. Bright carmine
pink colour of large size and fine form.

Ilebe (Chaundy). — Blush, tinted with salmon and of excellent form
and substance.

John Benary. — Blush pink ground colour striped with carmine and
purple. A very distinct fine flower.

Julia Basserman (Benary). — This is of the colour of Souvenir de la
Malmaison, but brighter ; it is of fine form, with large broad petal and
good pod which does not split. A variety which will be very popular
for decorative work.

Korner (Benary). — A distinct and novel colour, a pale pink shaded
with a brighter tint of colour at the base of each petal and of fine form.
A great acquisition.

Mrs. Joseph Chamberlain (Thomsons). — A charming shade of
salmon pink, good form, stout pod, erect habit, and a most desirable
variety.

Negress (Thomsons). — Very rich shaded dark crimson maroon,
possessing a satiny surface, large smooth petal. A fine flower.

Queen of Crimsons (Dodwell). — An excellent variety. The name
indicates the colour.

Santuzza (Benary). — Bright salmon-tinted rose, a grand flower with
large petal of great substance and quite distinct.

Topsy (Herbert). — A Negress style of flower, but with a brighter
shade of crimson in it. Extra fine in every way, and with a strong
Clove perfume.

Uncle Tom (Dodwell). — This is an almost black, and extra fine
variety.

Vivid (Herbert). — Brilliant deep scarlet. A grand flower with
broad smooth petals and of great substance.

Wicland (Benary). — A distinct and very fine self, bright pink-tinted
mauve, broad petal and of the finest form. — W. D.

(To be continued.)

NATURE’S HELPS TO GARDENERS.

We often hear persons talking about “the balance of power ’’ among
nations, and I do not doubt that most nations are anxious that their
side of the scales should be the weightiest. Well, we gardening folk in
our battles against insect enemies would like to have the balance on our
side. Unfortunately, through ignorance, we often throw our weight
against ourselves. Once, at a local show, I afterwards took the judges
into my garden, and they were by no means ordinary men in their
stations, and picking out the larva of one of the Syrphidse, or smaller
balance flies, I asked them what they would do with it if they met with
it. The verdict was death. They were much surprised when I told them
that I had often paid my children so much a dozen for finding them.
Where they are often found I will tell later on.

I will allow that to any casual observer this larva, or grub, does not
at first sight appear to be different from the many mischievous grubs
and small caterpillars that find food and shelter in the leaves, and, alas !
often among the blooms of our pets, but a little ordinary care, especially
if aided by a pocket lens, ought to save the life of one of the most hard¬
working helpers that a gardener possesses.

All the ordinary grubs have a perceptible head, generally rounded,

and that looks smoother than the rest of the creature. These larvm of
several kinds of Syrphidfe or balance flies has apparently a pointed head,
but if examined by a lens is seen to be made up of three points ; still,
as it moves, the distinguishing mark is the pointed head ; its colour is
generally green with some white markings on the back ; but if living on
the black aphis the green portion is much darker. If at rest it re¬
sembles the dogs, whose heads and tails are alike, but if made to move
then the pointed head shows itself. They vary in size from the eighth
of an inch to perhaps an inch in very fine specimens. In walking there
is a much deeper wave of the body than in a caterpillar of the same
size. Its legs are rudimentary. It is blind, but when in search of food
the pointed half of the body searches all round, and if meeting with an
aphis it is seized, held up in the air, speedily sucked, and thrown aside.
Their appetite is enormous, and the way in which one of these larvae
will clean a shoot that was covered with aphides is simply incredible to
those who have not watched the process. When full grown it fastens
itself firmly to a leaf, and, the body contracting, it changes into a smooth
body, pointed at one end, rounded at the other, and often looks like a
drop of frozen greenish water. In due course it changes into one of the
balancing flies with wasp-like markings, the abdomen of which is flat¬
tened, not round as the wasp. They are beautiful as well as useful, and

ou the move. 0, One at rest. D, One holding aloft an aphis, whilst sucking the
body. E, The pupa or chrysalis, fl.xed ou the leaf ; the head of the fly is now at the
thicker end.

could we increase them at will aphides would cease to be the pests they
now are to gardeners.

Every observant gardener knows, when the leaves at the tops of his
Red Currant shoots are curled and apparently blistered, that the under
surface of these leaves is covered with aphides, and that this unhealthy
change in the leaves is the handiwork of the aphis. But the instinct of
the fly also teaches it that here she may safely deposit one or more eggs.
Here my children have, in days gone by, secured dozens for me, which
transferred to my Morello trees have helped to save my crop from
destruction by the black aphis, or they have been placed on Rose trees or
Chrysanthemums.

This year, being very occupied, I did not notice the beginning of
mischief on my Morello Cherries, and I was reduced to removing the
affected leaves, something like half a bucketful, intending to cover
these with boiling water and so rid myself of the pest. But on looking
at some of the leaves, literally black with aphides, I noticed some red
lines. On taking out my pocket lens, I found these to be very small
larvm of some of the Syrphidm. I had never seen them so small be ‘'ore,
and never almost blood red ; these were carefully removed with a
camel’s-hair brush and placed elsewhere, before the blacks were
destroyed. Our “ helps ’’ are represented on the Chrysanthemum leaf
(fig. 57).— T. B. A. Z.

FLORAL NOMENCLATURE.

While I thoroughly sympathise with " Old Subscriber ’’ (page 356)
in his plaint regarding the eccentricity and variability of pronunciation
displayed when using the scientific names of plants, I must nevertheless
twit him with inconsistency. It is strange that a gentleman who would,
if he could, convert every Philistine to the use of the academic and
undoubtedly correct “Gladiolus,” should contend so strongly for recog¬
nition of the Anglicised plurals of Greek and Latin botanical names.
I should have thought that, on such liberal principles, he would have
been content with the vulgarly erroneous “ Gladiolus” or Gladiolus.

The disorder of pronunciation in floral nomenclature is not an easy

* Several varieties of the Syrphiil® prey on the aphis tribe; most of them belong to
the balance fly tribe, that hover over a flower, and often appear almost stationary in
the air.

884

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 26, 1893,

one to reduce, and tliough journals have some influence, unanimity in
the matter of accent and plurals is never likely to be absolutely estab¬
lished. The more popular horticulture becomes, and the more the
knowledge of the ever-increasing number of new plants extends, the
greater does the difficulty of agreement grow. The question is. How
much use constitutes naturalisation in a language ? Botanical names
are purely artificial, and constructed for the convenience of international
communication between scientific men. Those plants that possess local
names have the plural of these names formed according to the usage of
the vernacular. But seeing that the scientific names form a kind of
lingua franca.^ ought they to be subjected to distortion according as the
person using them in the plural happens to be French, German, English,
or Russian ? Of course the question is fraught with difficulties, espe¬
cially when we come to consider those names with the Greek endings
(instanced by “Old Subscriber") — ’Viz., is, m a, ojhs, 3.ni ojjsis. Surely
many of us would hesitate, on the score of euphony, before uttering
such pluralised forms as Acises, Ganymedeses, Phalrenopsises, which
suggest the old nursery rhyme, “ three ghosteses sitting on three posteses
eating bread and cheeseses.’’

Those who know anything of Greek must regret the substitution of
such atrocious sibillations for the beautifully soft Greek plurals in mata
and ides. What havoc the writers of the Restoration wrought with our
mother tongue when they took to using “ thinks,” “ walks,” “ listens,”
and “ freezes ” for “ thinketh,” “ walketh,” “ listeneth," and “ freezeth,”
making it (as Frederick the Great said) like the language in which the
serpent tempted Eve I But for this English might be positively agree¬
able for foreigners to hear. However, it has never been the practice of
our race to sacrifice expediency to sentiment, and I am ready to admit
that as nine-tenths of the scientific names of plants end with a vowel
they suffer little by being given the ordinary English plural termination.

“ Old Subscriber” is right in poking fun at the expression “ Narcissi
show,” but he misses the mark when he apprehends the advent of “ Rosm
shows.” The word “ rose” is as much English as “ violet,” and hence it
could never be a question of thus pluralising it, as there might be were it
still the Latin “rosa.” It would be equally absurd to talk of a “ Roses
shows.” — “ Ribeses.”

Most people will agree with the sentiments of “ A Grateful Old
Subscriber ” (page fl.56) on this subject. No doubt Gladiolus is both
right and impossible, therefore we must have an English pronunciation
which is classically incorrect. I would strongly support the claims of
Gladioais rather than Gladiolus — first, because if the pronunciation is
to be English, we should follow the good old rule that “ the tendency
of the English language is to throw the accent as far back as possible,”
and Gladiolus is hardly possible ; second, because to my ears when I
was young there was no other pronunciation, and Gladiolus is quite
modern. But if “ A Grateful Old Subscriber” is going to try to induce
people to change their pronunciation of even a single word, he has my
sympathy, and he will want it before he has done. — W. R. Raillem.

Hybeid Briar Roses.

Lord Penzance has written me to say that his Hybrid Briars are
at present being propagated by a firm of rosarians, and will be ready
for distribution by the autumn of next year. They are beautiful hybrids,
betw'een the wild Roses of the woodlands and the Hybrid Perpetuals
of our gardens ; and partaking as they do of the characteristics of both,
will doubtless prove distinct and splendid acquisitions. I think that
Briar Roses should be more widely cultivated. Their reign, indeed, is
short, but it is exquisite while it lasts. Such brilliant varieties as the
Persian Yellow, the Austrian Copper, and the semi-double Rosa Harrisoni
should be found in every garden. — David R. Williamson.

Hot Season Roses.

In reply to your correspondent, “ W. R. Raillem ” (page 358), re the
behaviour of dark Roses during the past summer, I am able to state my
experience differs somewhat from his own. I never remember having
such a number of “ burnt ” flowers. I do not grow many varieties, but
have about fifty dwarfs of Prince Camille de Rohan, and a like number
of Abel Carri^re, which are grown on a really good Rose soil, but which
requires enriching at the present time. I can safely say I did not cut
twelve Roses off them that were up to exhibition form, the majority
were very thin in petal, and those burnt badly ; in fact I might say
scores were never picked for this simple reason. While I am of opinion
the hot sun tends to this burning, I think with your correspondent it is
not the only cause. Had the bushes been supplied with an adequate
quantity of water or liquid manure I feel sure the results would have
been different. I am of the opinion that poverty has something to do with
burning, in some cases at all events. Ghnhral Jacqueminot has never
been better with me ; in spite of the thin petals every bloom developed,
and their colour left nothing to be desired, at the same time their lasting
properties were very brief. Ib was a case of “ here to-day and gone to¬
morrow.” Most of the light-coloured Hybrid Perpetuals were satisfactory.

especially these varieties that object to a wet season. I was surprised
to find John Hopper so poor ; it was far below the standard in every
respect, while the preceding season it was grand. I might add,
the majority of my Roses are grown for cutting purposes, and not for the
production of exhibition blooms. — Essex Rose Grower.

Mr. Mawley’s “Analysis” of 1893.

I confess to a sense of disappointment on reading Mr. Mawley’s
explanation {Journal of Horticulture, page 358) of his method of
arriving at the various positions the best exhibition Roses hold each
season, more especially in respect to their status at the N.R S. Metro¬
politan Show. I have been under the impression while reading his
analysis for some years that his figures represented real facts, whereas
now I find that he practically uses the figures according to his own
fancies. There is no doubt that the analysis must be in any case an
arbitrary way of deciding the position of certain varieties, as they are
taken only from winning boxes. This year it was of small consequence ;
but last year, when the competition was so great, as many as twenty-one
competing in one class, and many other classes having from eight to
thirteen competitors, it would have been a fair criterion of a good
exhibition, and very useful and interesting to have obtained the varieties
shown by all competitors.

Mr. Mawley says of his method of calculation, “ However complicated
and unreal the system ” (his system) “ may appear,” it is in reality “a
commonsense ” way of treating the statistics at his disposal. My view
is that when people are dealing with statistics they should deal with the
hard facts alone, and not alter such facts to suit any theories they may
hold. It is action of this latter kind which gives people the handle to
use the saying that figures can prove anything. I prefer a grain of
truth and fact to a ton of theory, and I never like to see figures altered.
Being a business man it may be rather a hard and dry way of looking at
the matter ; but such is my way of thinking. Mr. Mawley practically
arranges what in sporting language is called a handicap, according to
his own views of the merits of the various flowers, but without
much regard to their previous performances. Of course Gustave
Piganeau, Ernest Metz, Ethel Brownlow, and other Roses, may next
year be anywhere in an analysis of this kind, and very naturally in
future their position will have little interest for me ; but it would be
well for the guidance of others that some clear explanation should be
given to show that the figures are evolved out of fancy more than
fact. In regard to my query as to the number of prize boxes Gustave
Piganeau and Ernest Metz were shown in, I used the words “big
amateurs,” by which I mean those growing at least over 1000 plants of
exhiniiion varieties. I acknowledge that both the above named varieties
are indispensable to a big exhibitor ; but from the experience of several
leading rosarians, growing many more and better Roses than I do, I
find t at other opinions are in agreement with mine.

In regard to seasons in general, and more especially as regards their
effects on the Rose Shows of 1893 and of 1879, 1 may say that, bad as
the Crystal Palace Show was this year, it would have been infinitely
worse if it had been held on the 8th July, and no doubt Mr. Mawley
will recollect that he and others were very strong advocates for that
date, and were very sore at our defeating their motion to alter it.

Mr. Mawley says “ VVe all know what the Drill Hall Show was in
June 1891.” I merely say we all know what the Drill Hall Rose
Show always is — rather a failure? I should be glad to know how
many classes there were in the metropolitan schedule of 1879, and how
many members the N.R.S. then had. With these figures, which are
facts of the past, we could fairly compare 1879 and 1893. — Charles J.
Grahame, Croydon.

WALTHAM CROSS REVISITED.

Many years ago, in the Hollyhock days, when that noble flower
gave to gardens a “ character ” they have never possessed since, I, as
one of its votaries, remember well deriving both pleasure and knowledge
in reading an entertaining and instructive pamphlet entitled “ An Hour
with the Hollyhock,” little thinking I should ever be privileged to spend
an hour with its author, Mr. William Paul of Waltham Cross. Time,
however, brings about changes frequently such as are not anticipated,
and one of these eventually brought me into contact with one of the
most experienced and accomplished horticulturists in the world. That,
too, is several years ago, yet subsequent to the dread Puccinia invasion
which practically swept the Hollyhock out of the country. True we see
the stately flower again in gardens here and there, and occasionally a few
blooms exhibited at southern shows, but they are very poor apologies
for the grand varieties of past days when our author spent his “ hour ”
with them. The nlants of the present are chiefly raised from seed and
treated as biennials, and it would be well if many more were so grown ;
but anterior to the fungoid scourge they were mainly increased by
cuttings or root-grafting and treated as perennials. This is a
reminiscence, a passing reference to days on which the minds of many
love to dwell, and to which, and the “ manners and customs” of the
period, many more of a later generation are of necessity strangers.

Since the first visit alluded to, and the last, to be described, all
things are not as they once were. For instance, on looking for the
path from the platform of the railway station into the nursery, as in the
old days, it was not to be found. “ Here, porter, I want to go into Mr.
Paul’s nurseries ; there used to be a gate opening to them from here, but
I can’t find it.” “No, sir ; there was never no gate from here.” “ But
I once passed through it from the platform into the grounds.” “ No,

October 26, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

885

sir, begging your pardon, I think not.” “What, then, has Mr. Paul
moved his nursery to another place?” “No, sir; it’s just exactly
where it was, but,” with a peculiar look, “ we’ve moved the station.”
“ Ah ! ” That means a collapse, and acknowledgment that the porter
was master of the position. The station is 100 yards or so nearer
London now, and instead of walking through it along the pleasant glade
to the office at the opposite end, we pass along the side of the nursery,
buildings intervening, to the main street of Waltham, turn to the right,
and reach the office entrance in practically the same time as before — a
steady ten minutes’ walk, though there is a side entrance only four or
five minutes from the station.

As most persons know, or may learn by a glance at a railway map,
Waltham Cross is reached from Liverpool Street station, the city
terminus of the Great Eastern Railway — perhaps, at certain times,
morning and evening, the busiest station in London, if not in the world.
No wonder many a stranger whose life has been spent in the country,
the leisurely ways of which have become part of his nature, is not a
little bewildered when he finds himself jutted here and there, and
hustled about by a mass of humanity rushing for egress or ingress.
He may, as many do, as is apparent enough, experience some difficulty
in learning where to “ take his ticket,” and then in finding his train.
Let him keep cool and not rush about in a search on the platform, but
quietly pass upstairs and book to Waltham. Oa coming down again he
will see right before him a number of clock faces with the hands point¬
ing to the names of stations and number of platforms from which the
next outgoing trains start. Amidst all the confusion, the arrangements
at these great stations are clear enough, and a person arriving in
reasonable time need not miss his train if he does not loss his head,
as many do daily.

Not through pleasant suburbs does the train pass on its way to
Waltham. We are in the thickly populated busy East. Dwellings, not
artistic, are packed together, and “works” of various kinds appear to
show their worst sides to the railway. Eventually we come to an
opening between the buildings, but much more likely to be occupied
with barrels, rubbish, and general lumber than by trees or other forms
of vegetation. Yet anon we come to the fields mainly cropped with
vegetables, but in no sense representative of the splendid market
gardens more distant and westward of the City. Of shaky patched-up
greenhouses there is no lack, but they have a depressing rather than an
inspiring effect, indeed the whole surroundings are suggestive of a
struggle against adverse influences — of marshy soil below and a hazy
soot-laden atmosphere above. The outlook improves as we go along,
especially as we see the rising ground of Epping Forest in the distance
on the right ; but it is not until historic Waltham is reached that we
feel fairly in the country, and the first really bright and refreshing
scene is afforded by the nurseries which skirt the line on the left, but
just beyond the station — Rhododendrons in the spring, Roses in the
summer, and Dahlias, with the rich tints of various trees during the
evening of the year.

Fortunate was Mr. Paul in his purchase of this valuable tract of land
between thirty and forty years ago for a nursery. He had it in mind
to establish himself nearer the metropolis, but London has spread out
since then, carrying with it atmospheric impurities inimical to vegetation,
but Waltham Cross is outside the smoke radius and everything is clean.
The site is open to all the sun that shines, and the soil is an ideal one
for trees ornamental and useful. It is sound loam just above medium
in texture, or sufficiently retentive for holding food ingredients, yet
free in texture for inducing a fibrous rooting system. It is .3 to 4 feet
deep, resting on gravel, and a little below that is the water table. In a
wet season superfluous water passes freely away, in a dry one it sustains
the trees, as drawn upwards by the sun in the process of capillary
attraction. If this were not so, and if fibrous roots were not abundant,
specimen shrubs and Conifers transplanted last May could not have
lived through the exhausting summer. They have not only “lived”
but grown admirably, though of course they had the needful attention
as dictated by long experience. Firm, matured wood in fruit and orna¬
mental trees, Roses and various shrubs is the natural growth charac¬
teristics of what may be termed the concrete or governing conditions
indicated. This is apparent all over the nursery, and such sturdiness
above ground can only have its counterpart below — not a few strong
fibreless roots which are never produced by such trees, indeed cannot
be, but a multiplication of fibres as the necessary collorary of such
growth. Excessively rampant growth always did, will, and must mean
deep strong root penetration, just as sturdy short-jointed wood ripening
to the tips means a free fibrous ramification in the upper stratum of
soil. This is so because it cannot be otherwise, and people who are not
other than wise attach primary importance to the roots of plants and
trees as the precursors of thrifty growth.

To the mere sightseer, who is not a cultivator, the month of October
is not the best time for a nursery stroll, though an artist could not fail
to admire and long to reproduce the exquisite colour tints assumed by
many trees ; but the visitor who has some knowledge of the gardener’s
art, though it may be much less than his more learned guide can teach
him, is at no time more interested by an inspection than when Nature
is completing the work of the year in the process of maturation. He
likes to see fruit trees when the foliage is being scattered at the proper
time, the Roses when they are preparing for rest, and trees and shrubs
generally when the “ leaves are changing yellow and kindling into red,”
because he can then appreciate the nature and value of the wood better
than at any other period of the year. There is plenty to see at Waltham
Cross in all those references, much more, in fact, than can be narrated here.

Let US look for a moment at the fruit trees. These we fiul represented
in all kinds and forms, also of various sizes, from thrifty maidens to
abundant fruit producers nearly thirty years old, with any number of
moveable specimens for immediate bearing, these latter being in demand
for furnishing new gardens quickly and filling blanks which are ever
occurring in old ones.

Running through the nursery from south to north is an avenue of
fruit trees, 400 yards long, in which is planted single tress of nearly-
500 different kinds of Apples, Pears, Cherries and Plums, which are
much visited during the fruiting season by connoisseurs of fruits, both
amateur and professional. Peaches, Nectarines, Apricots, Figs and
Grapes, are grown and fruited under glass. By these means not
only are the different soils constantly under the eye for observation and
study, but buds, grafts and eyes are, when propagating, taken from
fruiting specimens, thus reducing to a minimum the chances of error in
nomenclature. Fruit trees, it has been said, are grown in almost every
form. There are standards, young and old, short and tall, feathered
trees, pyramids and bushes on various stocks, standard and dwarf
trained, fan-shaped and horizontal, cordons upright and horizontal in
almost unlimited numbers. The fruiting trees, especially Apples and
Pears, were the most striking, many being of large size, very symmetrical
and thickly studded with fruit buds. Similar trees to those which were
removed last winter and bore fruit this summer (1893) large enough to
appear at the fruit shows. Of smaller fruits, Strawb jrries. Raspberries,
Gooseberries and Currants abound, the Strawberries being prevented
from straying and intermixing by divisional lines of Raspberries, ample
space being afforded for both. Many varieties of the different kinds of
fruit are grown for meeting garden needs and forming collections. For
extensive plantations of a limited number of popular kinds, trees are
raised and grown on Mr. Paul’s fruit farm in Sussex. The gathered
crops of the season were stored in a fruit room recently built on the most
approved principles, special features of which are a double roof, double
windows and door and thatched sides. It is expected that no heating
apparatus will ever be required here. In this nursery the Crab stock is
preferred to the Apple, and the Paradise is recommended for private
gardens only where the soil is a good medium loam. The Quince stock
is used for some sorts of Pears, but the Pear stock is more largely used.
The Mahaleb is a favourite stock for Cherries of the Morello kind ; an
instance of the value of this stock was given. No Cherries could be
obtained in a large well cultivated garden until this stock was tried,
when the crop proved abundant. Although the summer just past has
been more than usually favourable to the spread of various insect pests,
the trees here were perfectly clean, and 'oore no marks of depreciation
from these enemies.

The celebrity of this nursery for Roses is well known, and although
the flowers were somewhat despoiled by the rain there were several
attractive blooms in the masses of Tea-scented and other kinds. The
charming Polyanthus were represented by Gloire des Polyantha,
Mignonette, Perle d’Or, and the newer and larger Princess Elizabeth
Lancellotte. To these may be added the dainty Chinese Little Pet. A
fine collection of blooms could be cut of such well proved or promising
H.P.’s as Augustine Guinoisseau, Bardou Job, Caroline Testout, Charles
Lamb, Climbing Queen of Queens, Clio (a wonderful grower), Danmark,
Duchess of Albany, Ella Gordon, Garden Favourite, Gloire de Margottin,
Grand Mogul, Gustave Piganeau, Madame Bois, Mme. Isaac Pereiere,
Marchioness of Lome, Mrs. John Laing, Pierre Netting, Pride of Waltham,
Silver Queen, Spencer, Star of Waltham, Ulrich Brunner Fils, and
Victor Hugo. Lorna Doone, Kronprinzessin Victoria, and Souvenir
de la Malmaison were flowering among the Bourbons, and Adelina,
Viviand Morel, L’Ideal, Madame Pierre Cochet, and William Allen
Richardson were the most floriferous Noisettes. La Soleil was shining
among its congeners the Teas and their hybrids, and blooms could be
cut of Madame Chauvray, Madame Moreau, Pink Rover, Princess May,
Waltham Climber No. 3, all vigorous growers ; also of Camoens, Christine
de None, Corinna, Ernest Metz, Grace Darling, Gustave Regis, La Boule
d’Or, Madame de Watteville, Madame Hoste, Madame Lambard, Madame
Pernet, Ducher, Marie Van Houtte, Perle des Jardins, Safrano and its
red variety Sunset, The Bride, Waban, and White Lady. This reads
like a summer list, and is worth giving as indicating both the mildness
of the weather and some of the best autumnal Roses, Plants of appro¬
priate varieties are also extensively and admirably grown in pots for
early forcing.

The collection of hardy trees and shrubs it is impossible to pass, as
many of them shine as brightly in their glowing garb of brown, purple,
crimson and gold. Among the Acers circinatum, eriocarpum, ginnala,
Schwedleri, and saccharinum were conspicuous. Berberis Thunbergi
(dwarf) was a mass of rich red, as were some of the Cornuses. Two
Thorns also compelled notice — Crataegus Carrieri, a nearly evergreen
with dark glossy leaves, 3 to 4 inches long, bearing clusters of scarlet
fruits, nearly as large as Cherries, and C, prunifolia, leaves dying off
scarlet. Euonymus atropurpureus, Gleditschia tricanthos, Kolreuteria
paniculata, Liquidamber, various forms of Pyrus, Prunus, and Quercus,
with Rhus toxicodendron, Salisburia adiantifolia. Spiraeas, and Vibur¬
nums glistened in the sunlight.

Clematises in pots, a fine collection, sparkled with flowers, as
plunged with other hardy climbing plants for the winter. The Camellia
house is one of the features of the nursery. It will be a sight to see in
February and March, the plants, young and old, being splendidly
“ budded ; ” and the Vines in pots, wherever they may be well grown, will
be well worth looking at next year, for more substantial and better
ripened canes cannot very well be imagined. The houses generally are

886

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 26, 1893.

filled with a collection of the most useful spring flowering and other
plants most in demand in gardens, and on each side of the long nursery
glade are specimens of Hollies and other evergreens, including
Osmanthus illicifolius, flowering freely and dispersing Hawthorn-like
perfume ; also a choice collection of Coniferae associated with herbaceous
plants.

Passing through the town we come to an hostelry, Ye Olde Foure
Swans, bearing date 1260, and near it the splendid memorial cross, the
finest existing of the series commemorative of an historic event in the
long past centuries. Not far distant is Mr. Paul’s capacious residence,
once the home of the late Mr. Anthony Trollope, with well-wooded
pleasure grounds and park-like surroundings. Near it is the stately
Ailantus tree, with its three main stems, recently alluded to in “ The
Times,” and the alleged unpleasantness of the flowers is regarded by Mr.
Arthur W. Paul, the diligent junior member of the Arm, as mythical, as
the spreading branches are close to the windows of his bedroom, and
without causing the slightest inconvenience. The Ailantus glandulosa
is a beautiful tree for town or country, and it is a wonder it is not more
freely planted.

One is tempted to dwell on Mr. Paul’s library, said to contain the
finest assortment of horticultural works in possession of any individual
except Dr. Hogg. It is a rieh collection, ancient and modern, including,
of course, the various works of the author, prominent among them being
his magnum opus, the “ Rose Garden,” the most compendious and
exhaustive work on the subject on which it treats. An hour with Mr.
Paul in his sanctum, as in his nursery, is time well spent, and a man
must know a very great deal if he does not learn a little more after
spending two hours with the senior bearer of an honourable name,
writ large in the annals of horticulture — a privilege the second time
enjoyed by — Lindum.

WOl

^K.F01

ItheWEE

K.Q

fW

l&i'S

FRUIT FORCING.

Peacbes and "NectATines.- Earliest House. — The trees in this
structure have been at rest for some time, the roof lights having been
removed when the wood was sufficiently firm and the buds formed, but
not over-developed. The house was thoroughly cleansed when the
leaves were all down, the trees untied, pruned, dressed with an approved
insecticide, re-arranged and tied on the trellis, the border surface dressed,
all put in complete order ready for a start at the proper time, and they
are now in a promising condition. The roof lights will not be replaced
until early in December. _ Where the roof lights have not been removed
strenuously avoid allowing the soil to become dry at the roots of
the trees, as this is sufficient to cause the buds to fall. If the trees are
weakly and the buds plenteous a supply of liquid manure will be of
great benefit. It is also advisable to remove the surface soil down to
the roots, removing some of the old from amongst them, and supply
fresh loam, not covering the roots near the collar more than 2 or 3 inches.
If the loam be of a light nature add a fourth of clay marl, dried and
pounded, and a barrowload of wood ashes to every cartload of loam,
thoroughly incorporated, making it firm about and over the roots, and
giving a good watering. Borders that have a close moist surface, and
are rich in humus through heavy dressings of manure, may be dressed
with freshly slaked lime, using about a bushel per rod, and mixing it
with the soil as deeply as practicable without disturbing the roots to
any great extent, omitting the top-dressing before mentioned. If the
soil is very close and deficient of grit and calcareous matter, a dressing
of calcareous gravel about an inch thick, mixed with the soil as deeply
as the roots allow, would improve its staple and component elements.
It should be practised on both the inside and outside borders. Com¬
plete the pruning and dressing of the trees, cleansing the house, and
admitting all the air possible.

Second Early House. — The trees that were started at the new eary
or soon afterwards have been at rest a month, and those started in
February are now leafless ; they should be pruned, after untying,
dressed, and re-arrangei on the trellis. This, with a thorough cleansing
of the house, makes an end of adult insects and larvEe before they have
time to hibernate in the crevices of the bark and chinks of the wood¬
work and walls. In pruning early forced trees it is not desirable to cut
away too much wood, nor proceed on any hard-and-fast lines, but confine
it to removing any useless parts that have escaped removal at thinning
after the fruit was gathered, and shortening any long shoots to a double
or triple bud, making sure that one of them is a wood bud. This will
mainly be necessary to originate growths at the required place for
furnishing the trees, for shoots that are well ripened need not be
shortened^and those of 8 to 12 inches length should be left entire, as
they usually have a few wood buds at the base and one at the extremity,
those beiween those points being usually blossom buds. It is, however,
^ retain much wood, which weakens the trees in flowering,

and there is not space to train-in the young growths without crowding,
ire^ the trees in other respects as advised for the earliest forced, also
he house and borders.

Third Succession House. — This being started in February, the trees
will now be leafless, or' nearly so, and should be subjected to similar
treatment to the earlier ones, losing no opportunity of pushing forward
the pruning, dressing the trees, and having all needful work done. If
the wood is thoroughly ripened, the roof lights may be removed with
advantage. Where the roof lights are not moveable do not allow the
soil to become too dry, and admit air to the fullest extent, securing as
complete rest as possible. Any trees growing too luxuriantly or not
setting and stoning the fruit well should be root-pruned or lifted.

Late Houses. — The late varieties are over this season sooner than
usual, and the trees are shedding their leaves. It will be advisable to
remove the roof lights as soon as the foliage is sufficiently advanced, but
where green leaves hang long it is an indication of unripe wood, and
the roof lights must not be removed for some time longer. If this
condition prevails generally in the trees they should be lifted carefully
and be root-pruned. When this is performed judiciously it will not
prejudice next year’s crop, but it must be done when most of the leaves
are down and the wood firm, keeping the house rather close, the trees
syringed, and shaded if the weather be bright. Under ordinary
circumstances as to the weather these precautions are not necessary. It
is only when the trees are gross and the wood unripe that the careful
treatment is requisite.

In the case of young trees it will suffice to take out a trench one-third
the distance from the stem the trees cover of trellis, and down, so as to
cut off all roots to the drainage, leaving the trench open for a fortnight,
not allowing the soil in the radius to become so dry as to distress the
foliage to a severe degree of flagging, but not giving any water so long
as the leaves maintain their persistence, and then the trench may be
filled in, making the soil firm. This will check the tendency to
exuberance and late growth, and ripen the wood and plump the buds.
Luxuriant trees which may not safely be bodily lifted on account of
their long, strong and few roots, may be treated in a similar manner,
and a year afterwards they may be lifted.

Unheatcd Houses or Wall Cases. — With a proper selection of varieties
Peaches and Nectarines may be had from these structures from the
middle of July to the middle of October. The structures should have
south or south-west aspects, but they may have a west aspect in the
southern parts of the country. Peaches : — * Alexander, Early Louise,
*Hale’s Early, Dr. Hogg, Crimson Galande, “"Dymond, *Royal George,
Grosse Mignonne, Goshawk, Alexandra Noblesse, *Bellegarde, Barrington,
Princess of Wales, *Gladstone, Sea Eagle, Walburton Admirable, and
*Golden Eagle. Nectarines : — Early Rivers, *Lord Napier, Goldoni,
Darwin, *Stanwick Elruge, Rivers’ Orange, Milton, *Pine Apple, Dryden,
Newton, Spencer, and *Victoria. Those requiring only a few may select
those distinguished by a star. The chief thing with trees in unheated
houses is to train the shoots thin so as to secure stout short-jointed,
thoroughly solidified growth, to allow unobstructed light, and provide
efficient ventilation. Proper attention must, of course, be given to
cleanliness and due supplies of nourishment, but the most important
point of all is retarding the blossom in the spring as far as practicable.
This is best effected by removing the roof lights, and allowing them to
remain off until the blossoms are swelling and showing colour. It
has a good effect on the trees by the cleansing influence of rain, also in
securing the thorough moistening of the border. Such trees can be
kept perfectly under control by occasional lifting and root-pruning as
may be considered expedient. Over-luxuriance or a tendency to late
growth is overcome by judicious root-pruning and careful lifting, which
should be done after the wood becomes firm, and whilst the foliage is
still upon the trees. When intelligently practised lifting and laying of
the roots near the surface and firming the soil well, is the surest remedy
for trees that fail to set and stone full crops of fruit.

Pines. — Liberal ventilation should be afforded to pits or houses
containing young plants when the weather is favourable, and avoid
too much moisture, as over-damping, keeping the surfaces of the house
constantly saturated, is more injurious than otherwise. Water will not
now be often required, yet the plants must not be neglected, looking
them over every week or ten days, watering such as require it, as too
great dryness at the roots causes a stunted growth and it is not easy
afterwards made free.

In the fruiting department lose no opportunity of admitting a little
air early, closing the house at 85°, keeping the night temperature at 70°,
or a few degrees less in cold weather. Remove all gills and superfluous
suckers, retaining one only, the best to each plant. Suckers on suc-
cessional plants that appear before the fruit should be removed, except
an increase of stock is urgent, and then the fruit is more or less sacrificed
to the nuckers.

At this time of the year it is usual to make new beds of fermenting
material and prepare them for the young plants. Tan is the best for the
purpose, retaining its heat longer than any other, and subsiding least.
In forming beds of it place lightly together. Oak or Beech leaves are a
good substitute for tan, which should now be collected, and as dry as
possible. The leaves should be firmly pressed so that they may not sink
much, and also to regulate the heat and prevent it from becoming too
violent and soon spent.

Cucumbers. — The temperature should be maintained at 70° at night,
falling 6° when cold, 70° to 75° by day artificially, advancing to 80° or
85° with sun heat. Admit little air at the top of the house whenever
the weather is favourable, but it must be done without lowering the
temperature, it being better to shut off the top heat for an hour or two
when the sun is powerful than to ventilate when the wind is very cold.

October 26, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

887

Except on very fine days the syringe should be laid aside, using it
chiefly for damping the paths, walls, and other surfaces in the morning
and afternoon in warm bright weather. Supply water or liquid manure
to the roots as required, and always of the same temperature as the
house. Cover the roots with warmed soil as they protrude, and sprinkle
a little superphosphate over it occasionally as an incentive of root
aetion.

The autumn fruiters being now in full bearing must not be over¬
cropped, therefore remove the fruit when it attains a useable size, also
all deformed fruit. Examine the plants at least once a week for the
removal of bad leaves, and for stopping the shoots a joint beyond the
show for fruit, and cutting away all superfluous growths. Let the
winter fruiters advance well up the trellis before stopping them, training
the side growths right and left of the stem, and not too closely, so as to
secure well developed growth and foliage. Allow few or no staminate
flowers, but remove them with tendrils as they appear, and add fresh
warmed soil to the hillock or ridges as the roots show at the sides.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

Asparagus. — Not till the tops turn to a yellow colour should
these be cut down, and then only to within about 4 inches of the ground,
the stumps being left by way of an indication of the whereabouts of
the crowns. Seed is very abundant this season, and if strong growths,
heavily furnished with berries, are suspended in a cool, dry shed the
cleaning will be a very simple matter next spring. The custom of
heavily dressing the beds with solid manure, the soil from the
alleys being deposited on this, is not recommended. It keeps the beds
cold and wet during the winter, and destroys good roots that ought to
be preserved. If Asparagus beds must have a surfacing of rich manure,
defer applying it till next February or March.

Beet. — Whilst the mild weather lasts the roots will continue to
grow, but the first sharp frost will check further progress. If a little
soil could be drawn up to the plants so as to quite cover the roots they
may remain where they are for some time longer, but if left exposed
to a severe frod they might be spoilt. The roots are safe under cover
of some kind. All should be forked out of the ground carefully, snap¬
ping the thick roots meaning a loss of colour throughout by bleeding,
and the tops ought not to be trimmed off too close to the crown. If
there is space in a cool shed that is the place to store Beet, all being
packed crown outwards in either fine soil or sand. The roots may also
be stored in a cone-shaped “ clamp,” and covered with straw and soil
after the manner of Potatoes. The Turnip-rooted forms are the worst
to keep, and these ought, therefore, to be used first.

Carrots. — Fully grown roots of these are also best out of the
ground before severe frosts can reach them. All should be lightly
cleaned, and the tops cut off nearly close to the crown, being then
packed in sand or fine soil, much as advised in the case of Beet. Late
Carrots should be left undisturbed. They will continue to grow when
the weather is mild, and are much more tender and sweeter when pulled
just before being wanted for use. Sowing in frames on gentle hotbed
should commence now, especially where there is a constant demand
for quite small roots. The French Forcing is the best for autumn
sowing.

Otber Boot Crops. — Salsafy and Scorzonera keep the best in the
ground, a few roots being lifted and stored for use whenever severe
frosts are anticipated. Treat a portion of the crop of Turnips similarly
to Carrots. Chicory may either be lifted and stored in cool quarters,
the tops not being severely shortened, or the roots can be left in the
ground and be lifted according as a few are wanted for placing in a
Mushroom house or cellar to produce the requisite supplies of well
blanched leaves. Parsnips not only keep better in the ground than they
do when lifted and stored in sheds, but the quality also is superior.
Jerusalem Artichokes are still growing strongly, and the roots will be of
even worse shape than usual, the quality also suffering from this second
top and tuber growth. These should not be interfered with at present.
Later on, or after frosts have crippled the tops, these may be cut down
and a portion of the beds stiawed over so as to admit of roots being dug
if wanted at any time. Onions keep the longest when hung up in cool
dry sheds where they can be lightly protected if need be during the
coldest weather. Binding them closely and neatly to stout string or
short sticks is good wet weather work for the men, and the sooner the
bulk of the roots are hung up the better.

Potatoes. — Much of the work of Potato lifting has been already
completed in the majority of private gardens, and during dry days
should be persevered with in the open fields also. The sorting over and
storing ought to keep pace with the lifting. All the “ ware ” tubers, or
those intended for marketing or home consumption, should be placed in
one heap, good medium-sized tubers being selected for planting next
season, quite the smallest, and any found slightly diseased, going to the
pigs. Large numbers of “ ware ” Potatoes are best stored in clamps, or
conical heaps not more than 4 feet wide at the base and of any length.
These should be formed on the top of the ground, a well-drained site
being chosen and only covered with straw for the first fortnight. The
whole heap should then be turned, beginning at one end and re-forming
the heap as the work goes on, this being done with a view to getting rid
of all that have thus had a good chance of showing that they are diseased.
Re-cover heavily with straw or strawy litter, and then bank over with
soil dug from round and about I foot away from the heap. Potatoes
will keep well undug, always providing the rows were heavily moulded
up, and few or no tubers are near the surface.

Seed Potatoes. — It is during mild autumns when so many seed or
planting tubers are greatly weakened, and in many cases quite spoilt by
premature sprouting. When those that have been dug earlier in the
season are left in heaps for several weeks sprouting inevitably commences ;
long weak shoots resulting, unless this is prevented by thinner storing.
The Ashleafs ought, particularly, to be set up on ends closely together in
shallow trays, these being blocked up one above another in a cool light
shed. Thus treated, and duly protected from frosts, they will not lose
their first strong sprout, and heavier and earlier crops of Potatoes be had
next season accordingly. It is scarcely possible, in most gardens, to treat
the tubers of main crop varieties similarly to the Ashleafs, nor is this
particularly necessary ; but these ought, however, to be stored as thinly
as space will permit, and be kept cool. Light is a good preventive of
premature sprouting, and should only be excluded whenever it is necessary
to afford additional protection from frosts. The best results invariably
attend the practice of planting well-kept, medium-sized tubers whole, it
being false economy to reserve the small Potatoes for planting purposes .

APIARIAN NOTES.

Hints for Beginners.

(^Continued from page 365.)

The swarm-catcher I use is perhaps the first of the kind ever
made, and, in my opinion, is still superior to any other. It consists
of a light box of wood about one- eighth of an inch thick, or of wire
cloth lined with stout calico, but fastened at the bottom edge only,
the top being supplied with loops and cords so that it can be held
up or lowered when the bees are transferred from it to the per¬
manent hive by simply loosing the cords. The weight of the bees
causes the bag to drop to the top of the hive, and the bees on find¬
ing the slight pressure retreat to the hive beneath in a few seconds,
thus obviating all risks of them or the queen taking a second flight,
or of stranger bees joining and killing the queen. The poles
generally used are joined by ferrols to any length, and have on the
top a swivelled arm on which are fitted the two pulleys, over which
the cord works to lower the swarm-catcher. I hope the foregoing
may be sufficient to enable the beginner to make one for his own
use. It must be borne in mind that the swarm-catcher is made to
go inside the super-protector, without which it would be of less
value.

SUPERING.

After hiving comes supering. When should the supers be put on ?
is a question oftener asked than can be answered satisfactorily.
Supering newly hived swarms, and the size of hive to be employed,
are matters which no one can say positively what, when or how
everything should be done. Experience alone must be the sure
guide to beginners, locality and season being potent factors. In
order to assist those commencing bee-keeping, however, we shall
suppose a prime swarm has issued and is safely hived. When the
honey flow is great the hive should not have more than two
divisions ; in fact in one division having full sheets of foundation, or
some wrought out combs with supers added, the bees will take to
them at once, and when comb building has been well forward in
them, say in two days after, add a second division also full sheeted
or combed. If the swarm is before the honey flow give it two
or the three divisions according to the time ahead and strength of
swarm. Generally speaking, a prime swarm comes to full strength
and swarming point again in from five to six weeks after being
hived.

If a prime swarm in two divisions at first be deprived of its
queen and a young fertilised one introducsd, and at the same time a
third division added, swarming for some time will be delayed if not
altogether stopped. The same treatment applies to stocks un¬
swarmed, but the bee-keeper must determine according to his locality
the best time to strengthen hives by superseding old queens, by
introducing young ones, or the joining of swarms. These should
all be done so that the hives may be in full strength at the time
of the greatest honey flow. Thirty days elapse from the time the
eggs are laid till the bees work in the field, but inside the hive
they act as nurses, and others work shortly after birth.

To catch the flowers at the proper season by full sf ength
hives is of the greatest importance. Sometimes the bee-keeper is
greatly taxed how best to accomplish that, and manipulations have
occasionally to be resorted to to accomplish that in some localities
that are quite unnecessary in others. — A Lanarkshire
Bee-keeper.

(To be continued.)

868

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ October 26, 1893.

Bee-keeping— Teaching Beginners.

Can you tell me of a useful little work on bees, very sirnple
and suited to a beginner ? We have about eight hives, and since
the sudden death of a brother in the summer no one understands
how to manage them. A bee-master took the honey for us about
the beginning of August, and reported the swarms strong and
healthy ; but as he does not come again till the spring, I wished to
ask if there is anything to be done in the meantime. We have
“ Modern Bee-keeping,” a handbook for cottagers, but perhaps you
can recommend me something better ? — W . H. B.

[As there is no royal road to learning, so there is no book which
alone can teach beginners sufficiently, and guide them in all matters
connected with bees. Nature’s book, and with it experience, form
the best groundwork for the young apiarist. Neighbour’s “ Apiary,
and the “ A. B. C. Book,” by A. T. Root, are perhaps as good as
any, the latter touching upon many things not otherwise found in
bee boooks.

The bee-master who took the honey in August, and reported
the swarms strong and healthy, should have told you whether there
was sufficient food in the hive to last till late in the spring ; it
ought then to have been not less than 35 lbs., and at the present
date 20 to 30 lbs. He should also have shown you how
to feed and protect the hives against the frost and storms of

Grubs in Cyclamen Pots (A.). — The grubs are the larvse of a
destructive weevil (Otiorhynchus), a brownish beetle-like creature
which feeds chiefly at night on various kinds of plants, and may be
found with the aid of a lantern and destroyed. The grubs are difficult
to destroy — a decoction of hellebore made by dissolving 2 ozs. of the
powder in a gallon of hot water and applied at a temperature of over
100° might be tried. It would not injure the plants.

IVIarechal Nlel Roses (<9. A). — We should not have adopted
your practice, though we hope no material harm will result. The roots
would no doubt strike downwards and find the moisture you have
denied them near the surface. Root-drying does not always mean wood¬
ripening, as has been over and over again indicated in our columns, but
often means wood-starving. We advise you to make the border moist
right through in the best way you can, using pure water, then a week
afterwards follow with good liquid manure.

Prices of Brick and Concrete Garden Walls (TF. J/. B.').

— The prices vary with the material, distance of carriage, and labour.
A 9-inch thickness will do for, a wall of 6 feet height, and with bricks of
good quality, cost about 3s. 9d. per superficial yard, including footings
and copings. Concrete walls generally “ batter ” upwards to 9 inches
from a base of 15 inches, and equally on both sides. If the materials
have to be bought and cement is used the cost is about the same as
a brick wall, generally 4s. per superficial yard. Where the materials
are handy and the work done by skilled labourers the cost is consider¬
ably less.

■winter. _ i j.

If the hives are not provided with sufficient food supply it at
once until they have at last 20 lbs. each stored. If single-cased
(by far the best) wrap several plies of woollen or other material
around them, then over that an oilcloth or an archangel mat,
covering the top of the frames with a porous quilt of some sort,
then over that some dried grass or several inches of soft woollen
material.

A ventilating floor is the safety valve of every hive. As a
makeshift a rim 3 or 4 inches deep covered with perforated zinc,
seven holes to the inch laid on the top, not nailed, keeping the
original floor beneath all. Be sure the top is defended by a water¬
proof covering of cloth or iron so placed as to leave a free current
of air between it and the covering. "The Journal of Horticulture is the
best instructor. The articles appearing weekly for the guidance of
beginners, if read and thought over, will enable anyone to become
proficient in a year. Some of the greatest achievements in modern
bee-keeping were learned first from its pages. — A Lanarkshire
Bee-keeper.]

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Little & Ballantyne, Carlisle. — Trees, Roses, Herbaceous, Stove and
Greenhouse Plants.

The Surrey Orchard Co., Redhill. — Bulbs.

Charles Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough. — Roses, Fruit Irees, and
Nursery Stoch.

•^•All correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor ” or to “ The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Covering Glass Structures In Winter (Ji Everaerts). — You act
wisely in drawing down your lattice and other blinds over the roofs of
your houses in winter to prevent loss of heat by radiation and consequent
waste in fuel. We do not understand why the custom is not more
general, but we know that in many instances it would be advantageous
to use blinds less in summer and more in winter. If growers of
Chrysanthemums were to use blinds over the plants on clear cold nights,
the damping and premature decay of many blooms would be prevented.
The use of good blinds in winter would considerably lessen the
onsumption of fuel,
c

Dressing the Wounds of Apple Tree (^Inquirer'). — It was not
intended to deprecate the use of pigments for dressing the wounds
caused by cutting oil large limbs, but we have seen disastrous con¬
sequences follow the use of gas tar on fruit trees, and do not advocate
its use on any tree with a smooth bark, as Apple trees ought to have
to be healthy and fruitful. It is usual to dress the wounds of forest
trees with gas tar (or preferably lead-coloured paint), and no injurious
results follow, in consequence of the thickness of the bark, whilst
the pores of the wood are closed by the pigment. For any cuts such
as you allude to we should prefer lead-coloured paint to gas tar, but
for the cankered wounds proceed as advised with the sulphate of copper
solution, washing them well out, and then apply a plaster of cow
manure and clay to encourage the growth of the bark over the wound.
The sulphate of copper solution is in nowise a preserver of the wood
from wet, but it acts fatally on fungi and their germs.

Transparent Patches In Apple Fiesta (i2. I. Z.). — The hard
wax-like patches on the Apple consist of pulp of greater density than
the other parts of the fruit, the cell walls having been ruptured,
probably on account of their thinness, and the extravasated juices are
retained, giving the blotches a firm transparent appearance. There are,
of course, no air spaces in this part of the fruit, but there is a certain
amount of air, as air bubbles form on the microscopic section, and a few
perfect cells exist amid the gelatinous-like flesh forming the blotches.
In the other parts of the fruit the cells are unusually large, and the
flesh is much softer and lighter. The substance proceeds directly from
the internal parts of the fruit, and is intimately connected with the
carpel or core. Its extravasation is most pronounced in hot soils
and seasons, and is restricted to certain races, such as the Muscovy or
White Astrachan (Transparent Apple), which is remarkable for its
gelatinous- like blotches in the flesh, and sometimes the whole fruit is
transparent, with a texture of flesh resembling a stone fruit, and very
crisp, juicy, and richly flavoured. The transparent blotches sometimes
occur in Gravenstein and in some of the Calvilles. It is not a disease,
but a peculiaiity of type, transmittible from the parent and inherent
in the progeny. The threads pervading the gelatinous-like substance
are not fungal, but belong to the cells which have had their juices
extravasated.

IMCaklng a Vine Border (^George'). — As there is about to 3 feet
of good soil resting on rather sandy gravel, we should not for marketing
purposes indulge in a costly border, for if profits are to be realised in
these days of keen competition, it must be by strict economy both as
regards capital and labour. If the soil is naturally well drained, water
not lodging in the sandy gravel, nor at any time rising to within 4 feet
of the surface, but percolating away to lower ground as it falls and
passes through the soil, there will not be any necessity for tile drains to
carry off the otherwise superfluous water. Rubble for drainage will not
be necessary, and all you need do is to chop the turf up rather roughly,
mix with it the lime rubbish and a quarter of the fowl manure, place on
the border evenly, and mix the whole with the good soil by trenching,
so as to form a staple 2J feet deep, loosening the soil at the bottom, and
leaving it there. This border will grow as good Grapes as need be with
d ue attention to surface dressings and supplies of water or liquid manure.
Where water lodges in the subsoil, an excavation should be made 3 feet
deep down to the sandy gravel, with the bottom sloping to a drain at
the front and longitudinally of the proposed house, having the drain
about 1 foot below the bottom of the border, with proper fall and outlet,
placing rubble on the 4-lnch drain level with the bottom of the border.
The front wall of the house should be arched so that the roots may pass
from the inside to the outside border, 9-inch pillars sufficing, with skew-
back arches, the under side of their crowns being level with the proposed
level of the border, and about a foot of brickwork above the crown of
the arches will be sufficient height of wall in front and at the ends.
About 3 feet height of front lights opening the entire length of the house,
or every other light at least, will be necessary. Top lights will also be
necessary in the sloping roof, about 2\ feet wide, and preferably opening

November 2, 1893. J

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

391

Perhaps at no season of the year do the eyes of those who
revel in exquisite tints and infinite gradations of colour find
so much to admire as during the autumn, when the surface of every
woodland, and that of numerous groups or belts of trees, exhibit
the unapproachable beauty of Nature’s colour blending. The
spring, with its tender green leaves and blossoms of pristine
beauty ; the summer, with its sunny skies, waving crops, gorgeous
flowers, and deep green leaves have each a beauty of their own ;
but to the leaves of autumn must be awarded the prim for
the display of the greatest diversity of rich tints, which each
year teach us useful lessons in the boundless art of colour
blending.

The enjoyment to be obtained from a studied survey of autumn
foliage and berries is not confined to the views noticed in the
open air, for with such a wealth of materials before us we
have learned to utilise them for artistic adornment in many ways.
At the harvest festivals in our churches they, in combination with
fruit and flowers, are befittingly employed to show the varied
bounty of Heaven’s gifts, and add a higher touch of beauty to the
buildings wrought by human hands. In the embellishment of the
homes of the affluent they also play an important part, and those
who carry out this kind of work look with pleasure on the autumn
season, when, by the aid of the rich materials at their command,
artistic arrangements and unique effects are easily produced. Few
receptacles are better adapted to displaying branches and shoots of
autumn foliage than tall trumpet-shaped glasses. We have recently
been filling such with branches of Beech covered with bright brown
leaves, long shoots of Dogwood carrying bold crimson foliage,
graceful plumes of Asparagus dotted with red berries, Ampelopsis
sprays, and drooping Larch shoots arranged so as to hang in
thinly disposed festoons of waving lengths over the sides of the
glass. Specimen blooms of that fine Chrysanthemum Mons.
R. Bahuant, cut with long stems, and arranged with shoots of
Dogwood and Berberis aquifolium bearing well coloured leaves,
have been greatly admired. White Chrysanthemums, or others
having bronze shades of colour, look exceedingly effective when
given a background formed of shoots of this Berberis. Indeed,
the leaves of this useful shrub, obtained from plants growing in
different positions, exhibit such a great variety of colour that they
are invaluable for arranging with many flowers of bold type.
Leaves on the same shoot sometimes vary from a dull bronze to
bright red.

Few things are more striking when employed as tracing for
dinner-table decoration than these coloured leaves, as they are
bold and distinct in outline as well as beautiful in colour. Shoots
of the common Plane tree about the middle of October we find
very useful for mingling with other foliage, the pale green in the
centre of the leaves, shaded to light yellow at the edges, supply
shades of colour which harmonise so well with the richer tints of
other leaves. I do not remember to have previously seen autumn
foliage so generally good as it has been this year ; the recent rains
acting on a warm parched soil seem to have had the effect of
infusing a glow of colour into leaves which at one time were turn¬
ing a rusty brown, quite unattractive when compared with their
appearance now. A large Horse Chestnut overhanging a lake in
the park here has during the last fortnight been a picture of

No. 697. — VoL, XXVII., Third Series.

surpassing beauty. The groundwork of the leaves is of a bright
yellow colour. On each side of the ribs streaks of bronzy rod show
up distinctly ; these streaks are gradually shaded and suffused with
dull rose and pale pink. The effect produced by this large surface
of bright, yet exquisitely shaded colours, rivets the attention of
every beholder.

The Deciduous Cypress (Taxodium distichum) also contributes
telling autumn foliage, and is well worthy of planting on that
account, especially in the vicinity of masses of large specimens of
the various kinds of Laurels ; the bright brown colour of this
Taxodium is then shown up to the best advantage. For arranging
with other foliage in a cut state it is also excellent, as its Fern-like
branches supply the light feathery material needed for mixing with
bolder foliage. Many other trees and shrubs might be enumerated
which supply foliage of rich colour to brighten the landscape or
adorn the interior of “ England’s stately homes.” There is, how¬
ever, one member of the vegetable kingdom whose usual place is
in the precinct of the kitchen garden, which must be mentioned in
connection with this subject. I refer to the shapely Carrot, the
coloured tops of which can vie in beauty at the present season with
the fronds or leaves of the choicest exotic. The great diversity of
colour to be found in Carrot tops renders them especially suitable
for mixing with flowers of all shades. We frequently place a
groundwork of them in large bowls of low glasses, and then dot
among them trusses of Madame Crousse Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums,
which combination is both novel and pleasing. The rose-coloured
flowers of Anemone japonica, and others of similar shades, as well
as all white ones, are also exceedingly effective when loosely
arranged with these beautifully coloured Fern-like leaves. I ought
previously to have mentioned that shoots of the various varieties
of Ghent Azaleas have now some of the most brilliantly coloured
leaves to be met with, which render the beds occupied with them
almost as showy as when in flower. When shoots are employed
for decorative purposes in a cut state I find the leaves adhere to
them until quite withered, and last a long time in good condition.
Cut only those shoots which have no central flower bud, otherwise
the beauty of blossoming time will be much curtailed.

Turning to the many forms of autumn berries we find the
various species and varieties of Crataegus produce them in
abundance. Perhaps the most showy among them are the clusters
of bright scarlet ones borne on the branches of C. pyracantha.
These are well adapted for arranging with the paler- tinted leaves,
judiciously intermixed with others of deep green, a few Grasses
afterwards being added to give lightness and finish. The common
Hawthorn, C. oxyacantha, is this year loaded with “ haws.” Large
branches may frequently be cut from trees and hedgerows without
injury to either. These look particularly well if placed in tall
trumpet-shaped glasses. They should be thinly disposed, and
allowed to hang well over the sides ; the arched branches then
exhibit their natural grace, and do not require associating with other
materials to display them to the best advantage. The rich purple
berries of the common Privet, bright scarlet “ hips '’ of the Dog
Rose, large dark coloured clusters of Elder berries, each in turn
prove welcome for indoor adornment. Euonymus europmus (the
Spindle Tree), with its long elegant branches on which rose-scarlet
berries are freely produced, yields the palm to none in its appro¬
priateness for basket and vase decoration. It is deserving of more
extended cultivation, for it thrives in dry stony places where many
other things do not. In some parts of the country the Spindle
Tree grows abundantly in the hedgerows, and is very beautiful.

With the materials already alluded to dwelling rooms may be
made bright and attractive without employing a single flower, though
when foliage, berries, and flowers are each used the highest artistic
effects are produced, but at the present season I always like to
arrange one basket or vase in each room entirely with foliage and
berries, as they seem to mark the progress of the waning year. —
H. D UNKIN, Castle Gardens, Warwick.

No. 236.S. — VOL. LXXXIX., OLD Series.

332

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 2, 1893.

TOMATOES m 1893.

The past season, so far as my recollection goes, has been about
the best I have ever known for outdoor Tomatoes. Plants that
were turned out of 6-inch pots the end of May and with the first
trusses of bloom showing had some ripe fruits before June was out,
and throughout July and August fruited abundantly. They were
planted against a south wall in vacant places between the fruit
trees, and supplied with water about twice a week. These plants
were raised from seed sown the end of March, but the general
sowing for outdoors I made about the middle of April. The varie¬
ties grown here this year were Ham Green Favourite, Conference,
Challenger, Ladybird, and also a good local sort, but other kinds,
such as Perfection, Sutton’s Maincrop, and Sutton’s Al, grown
in neighbouring gardens, have done remarkably well. The weather
was so dry throughout the summer that more water than is usually
necessary was required.

Some seedlings of Challenger and Ham Green Favourite that
were left in the seed pots, and about 2 inches high, were potted the
beginning of June, grown quickly on a shelf in a Cucumber house
for a fortnight, then hardened off for a week, and planted against
a south border a yard asunder. A strong stake 3 to 4 feet high
was thrust in at the same time for each plant to be tied to. There
were two dozen plants of each of these varieties, and they have
given less trouble and produced finer bunches and more weight of
fruit than any forty-eight plants against the wall. The ground had
been newly dug, and although the weather was so dry in May,
the soil was moderately moist, also warm, so the Tomatoes grew
quickly, and reached the top of the stakes in a much shorter time
than I had ever seen before. When the fourth truss of flower on
each plant was seen the point was pinched out and all further
growth was suppressed. As they grew, all side laterals were
pinched out, and when the fruit was fairly set some of the large
robust leaves were reduced one-half. Some of the clusters weighed
more than 2 lbs., none less than 1^- lb., and the fruits were even
and finely shaped.

I believe, and I have often done it myself, that Tomato seeds to
produce plants for the open air are sown much too soon. The
plants become root-bound before the weather is such that they can be
safely turned outdoors. The middle of April is quite soon enough
to sow the seed in heat, and when the plants appear they should,
as soon as possible, be moved to a shelf in a sunny greenhouse to
keep them sturdy. After potting an intermediate temperature is
best for a fortnight, and then another fortnight in a greenhouse or
frame, with plenty of air if the weather permits. One point of
importance is not to plant in open quarters till the ground gets
fairly warm. It may be warm enough under a south wall the end
of May, but in the open the middle of June is better. Too much
stripping of the leaves I do not believe in, but keeping the ground
very clean with a Dutch hoe between the plants is good for them ;
the frequent stirring and clean surface of the soil acts like a wall
in radiating the sun heat about the plants. A yard each way from
plant to plant is not too much space. If only four bunches of a
pound each be obtained from each plant it will well repay the
cultivator, but the past season has given more. — A. Harding,
Orton IlalL

SOILS AND CLIMATIC CONDITIONS IN RELA¬

TION TO HARDY FRUIT CULTURE.

According to the theory of the author of a paper I perused some
time since, which treated conjointly on geology and horticultural
chemistry, certain of the constituents of good soils required the
agency of favourable climatic conditions to liberate them which
otherwise would be held in suspension. Such a theoiy is, of course,
endorsed by recognised authorities on the latter of the two sciences
referred to, and the writer further indicated that such favourable
climatic conditions formed one of the chief reasons why most foreign
products were so perfectly developed and matured. On looking back at
garden crops in general, and hardy fruits in particular, of the past season,
it is seldom indeed that northern cultivators are enabled to record a
counterpart in experience approaching so nearly to the standard of
perfection set forth in the text just quoted. In the latter depart¬
ment especially Apples in this county (Ayrshire), taking size, quality,
and finish into calculation, have been pronounced an unprecedented
display at least at one of the two principal county exhibitions. Seme
of the most conspicuous examples of high culture among culinary
sorts included Ecklinville Seedling, Warner’s King, Emperor
Alexander, Cellini, and Peasgood’s Nonesuch. The latter variety
heads the list for weight, a first prize stand containing six superb
specimens, which were said to average within a fraction of 1 lb.
each. These were grown at Trochrague Gardens in the valley of the
Girvan River. The mean temperature in that locality is somewhat

higher and the atmosphere more humid than in most other parts of
the county, the soil in the gardens being heavy. Mr. Goldie, the
gardener, informed me that his stand of Apples was selected from
a tree bearing an aggregate number of 200 fruits or thereby.

Referring to Ap])le8 from wall trees growing in soil having
a tendency to a light texture, I have noted that the fruits of some
varieties on a south aspect, although better coloured and flavoured,
are not up to the size they attained in wetter seasons, of which may
be instanced Early Harvest and Lord Suflreld. On the other hand
Ribston Pippin and Greenup’s Pippin are of full size and well
finished, which is unusual for the latter at the middle of September
so far north. A few fruits of Grange’s Pippin ripened a few days
latter on a west aspect. These were also of fair size, and in common
with the two last named varieties were from a young tree. An old
tree of Ribston Pippin on a south aspect yielded a gathering of
very fine specimens, although taken as a whole they were not so
evenly in size as from the younger tree on the same exposure, but
decidedly a better crop in every respect than for many years past.
A young tree of Cellini, a choice culinary sort, on a west aspect,
produced a crop of good size and extra colour. Another useful and
handsome looking culinary variety is Saltmarsh’s Queen, but the
only tree we had was necessarily allocated to an eastern aspect
where the solar conditions are less favourable for the full develop¬
ment of most Apples. Here it carried a good crop of medium but
evenly sized fruits though lacking in finish. Among a number of
old trees in an orchard 'we have a few of the Gravenstein Pippin
These, which for several years past have steadily deteriorated in size
and quality, have this season produced abundant crops of greatly
improved fruits in the above respects, many of them being extra well
coloured. Occasional applications of sewage water diluted no
doubt contributed considerably to the combined conditions necessary
for the swelling of the fruit.

Taken in the aggregate. Pears grown in the same description of
soil as Apples have been more uniform, this result being probably due
to some extent to the general condition of the trees with regard to
vigour. Among early varieties on south and west aspects Beurre
d’Amanlis, Jargonelle, Williams' Bon Chretien, and Hessle have
been especially good. Louise Bonne of Jersey, occupying a position
facing south-west, has ripened much earlier than was expected, even
making allowance for the extra warmth that has prevailed, but being
an old tree about half of the fruits were only of medium size, but
highly coloured. Marie Louise, Beurre Diel, and Durondeau, the two
former on a south and the latter on a west aspect, have all attained
an unusually uniform and handsome size. Muirfowl’s Egg, a sure
bearer in all sorts of seasons, although not small in size of fruits,
is hardly up to the average of moister seasons. Beurre Capiaumont,
on a young tree and also on a south aspect, has borne a rather heavy
crop of good and evenly sized fruits. As many of the fruits on
standards were blown off during the great gale of the 21st of
August, I am unable to give further notes on Pears approaching to
accuracy.

In summing up it is unmistakeably evident that as results of
the almost entire absence of frost last spring, together with the higher
average temperature of the past summer as compared with most
seasons. Apples and Pears on comparatively young trees have been
extra large, well coloured, and the flavour excellent, also that the
produce of vigorous old trees have shown an appreciable improve¬
ment in similar respects. The crops of Plums of most varieties
grown in the gardens from which I write and also in the surrounding
districts have been above the average in total weight, while the
quality marks a high order. Soils, situation, and cultural treatment,
however, affect the merits of fruits in a greater or lesser degree, and
a series of reports only from different localities and cultivators
would convey an approximately correct estimate of the fruit crops
throughout the country, and of the cultural and climatic conditions
upon which they depend. Such reports would no doubt be welcomed
by all interested in pomology, including your correspondent. —
D. M., Ayrshire.

INSECTS OF THE FLOWER GARDEN.

(^Concluded from 2}age 270.)

It may seem odd that in the cheese-mite group, so called, there
should be several species which live in the garden, and are
mischievous to flowers ; yet such is the case, while others of the
group are either of predatory habit or they resort to decaying
animal substances. Cheese being an artificial compound it is
evident that before man made it even the veritable cheese-mites
must have found some other animal or vegetable food. As we
know that one section of these mites feed upon bulbs, tubers, or
fleshy roots, it is possible these may be the natural food of most,
but the possession of a sucker by some species, and not by others,
indicates differences of habit amongst them. It does not seem that

November 2, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

893

•m

the cheese-mites change their diet, however, after the manner of
their brethren, the harvest-mites, though some of them differ so
much in appearance when they are adult that it has been suggested
they may be frequently the victims of a parasitic mite of equal
size. A good deal of attention of late years has been drawn to
one which has received the name of the Eucharis mite, owing to
the frequency of its attacks upon this plant ; but it does not con¬
fine itself to that bulb, nor indeed to others, for I believe there is
proof that though seldom noticed, the mite also visits a variety
of roots.

If we examine a specimen of what was at first named Acarus
Hyacinthi, now known as Rhizoglyphus echinopus, we see a smooth,
whitish mite, having a rounded body ; both this and the legs are
studded with hairs, but those on the back are simple, and those on
the legs bristly. The mandibles or jaws are in shape very much
like the claws of a crab, and by these they injure bulbs and roots ;
the head is small, and in walking the mite lowers it between the
fore legs. Living, as this insect does, between the scales of bulbs,
it remains undetected, often, till the plant is beyond recovery.
Boisduval first observed it on the Hyacinth, but many Liliaceous
species have been found to be subject to its attacks, and especially
in spring and autumn. Probably specimens, young or mature,
sometimes lurk in bulbs that are kept in stock ready for planting,
or that are transferred in commerce. A peculiar form of skin
irritation, which has affected persons who have had to handle
quantities of Hyacinth or other bulbs has been attributed to the
Eucharis mite. Its occurrence upon roots of the Vine swarming
with the phylloxera led to the supposition that this Rhizoglyphus
might be a devourer of its relatives under some circumstances, but
recent investigation shows it is really a vegetable feeder. Very
likely it often follows in the track of larger insects, and when
living underground seeks out roots which have already been bitten,
and so obtains their juices more easily. It has been argued that
R. echinopus selects for attack bulbs that are already in a condition
of incipient disease, and such alone. There appears to be a doubt
about this, but either bulbs or roots that are unsound have little
chance of recovery when this mite has once assailed them. A
variety of applications have been tried ; salt is fatal to the insect,
but if the solution is of adequate strength it may injure the plants.
Watering with a solution containing an ounce of coal tar soap to a
gallon of water has been found serviceable, and, as a dry applica¬
tion to the soil some recommend a mixture of soot, limej and
sulphur.

In conclusion, I have to refer briefly to a large group of mites
which have as yet been imperfectly investigated, the exceedingly
minute size of many being a difficulty, also their peculiar methods
of concealing themselves. We call them the gall-mites, or
Phytopti, and one of them, P. Ribis, has attained notoriety by its
extensive attacks upon the Black Currant the last few years, and
though so tiny an insect it has greatly diminished the crop of fruit
in some places. It seems strange that insects so tiny should be
capable of mischief to such an extent, but when some hundreds of
them are browsing amid the tender leaflets of a bud the result
is that the irritation and exhaustion they cause prove fatal to
its life.

Less harm is done by those of the Phytopti that live upon leaves ;
they produce a great variety of galls and swellings, or what looks
like a fungoid growth in other instances ; and, indeed, skilled
botanists and entomologists have both been perplexed by the ap¬
pearances of some leaves which have peculiar growths, that might
pass as cryptogamic, yet are probably due to the agency of a mite.
Even with a good microscope the Phytopti are difficult to detect,
since they have, though not very active, a peculiar way of shuffling
about ; also they are transparent or nearly, and soon dry up. It
remains a mystery how they manage to distribute themselves over
a tree or pass from one tree to another, nor do we know as yet what
becomes of the leaf-eating species during the months when trees
are bare of leaves. The mites that live in buds can continue their
operations in the winter unfortunately, and are probably the cause
of more damage than we have yet ascertained.

In their earliest stage many of the Phytopti appear to possess
only two legs ; observations on the Black Currant and other species
have proved they afterwards own six or even eight. With regard
to the mouth, their mandibles have been noticed, minute as they
are ; but authorities are not agreed whether these mites possess a
sucker in addition to the biting apparatus. A few entomologists
think the Phytopti may be the young of mites of a larger sort.
There is every probability that the Phytopti or gall mites, now that
they are being looked after, will be detected upon some herbaceous
or shrubby plants in the flower garden ; at present they have been
chiefly noticed upon trees and bushes. Against those that live
upon leaves the only charge is that they act as disfigurers ; they do
not seem to occur in sufficient numbers to check growth. They
are not always found within the galls and swellings they cause ;

sometimes they may be seen wandering about the exterior or
absent altogether ; very often the deserted gall is filled with
tiny hairs. It is impossible they should infest buds without killing
or seriously damaging them, especially when they have commenced
operations in October or November. Reaumur, the great French
entomologist, who first observed these gall-mites, records his re¬
searches after the tenants of the familiar nail-galls of the Lime.
These are green while young, then yellow, next red, and afterwards
brown. This species is P. Tiliaa ; and another very conspicuous
species is P. Aceris, the cause of crimson or purple galls which
cluster upon the leaves of the Maple and Sycamore. Upon Willows
occur a variety of galls, sometimes globular, sometimes flattened ;
also we have rollings of the leaf edges, evidently the work of mites.
The Turkey Oak (Quercus cerris) is apt to be much disfigured by
them, so is the Alder ; in the Birch the galls take the form of small
white knobs on the leaves and stalks. To another species is at¬
tributable the curiously deformed clusters of flowers the Ash not
unfrequently exhibits. Upon some papilionaceous plants a very
tiny species has been detected ; the mites live between the unfolded
pinnate leaves. It is satisfactory to know these gall-mites are
kept in check by larger mites and other insects, which devour
them. — Entomologist.

PEACH GROWING FOR MARKET.

{Continued from page 117.)

There are several methods of culture open to market growers,
but it is doubtful if any pay better than that of planting in the
cheap span-roofed houses already alluded to. A 14 feet wide
house would hold two rows of trees, one on each side, these being
trained up the roof by means of wires 10 inches apart and strained
through galvanised wire eyes screwed into the woodwork, so as to
bring the wires not less than 9 inches from the glass. Peaches and
Nectarines will not stand being planted thickly with a view to
having a full crop in a very short short space of time. In a young
state they grow rather vigorously, and if hard pruned or much
restricted will continue to grow strongly and fail to set or swell
good crops of fruit. The best antidote for this evil is to allow
plenty of room, a distance of 15 feet asunder being not too much.
Maidens are the cheapest, and these not unfrequently quickly over¬
take and surpass the much pruned and trained trees that may have
been planted at the same time. Order or select those moderately
strong and well ripened, paying another 3d. each or rather more if
need be, for the privilege. Some of the best trees I have were,
when first received, the smallest maidens I ever planted, but they
started strong enough the following spring and never became
unduly gross.

If the houses can be utilised in other ways the planting might be
delayed till just before active growth commences, or even till the
buds are bursting, the precaution, however, having been taken of
procuring the trees in the autumn and laying them in thinly in
good soil ; otherwise the planting may be done any time during
the late autumn or winter months.

The position being drained sufficiently to suit ordinary crops,
there is no necessity for going to any further expense in the
matter. Nor ought a very rich border to be prepared It should
be good enough to start them well and to support Tomatoes for at
least one season, further assistance being afforded from the surface
and added to the soil in front of the trees according as it is
needed. If there is a clear course the whole of the ground inside
the house ought to be bastard trenched, only a very little, if any,
of the subsoil being brought to the surface, and a fairly liberal
dressing of half-decayed stable manure, or any other partly decom¬
posed material, including weeds, vegetable refuse, leaves, and such
like be forked into the subsoil. To the surface soil, if this is of a
clayey nature, may well be added a dressing of fine mortar rubbish,
charred soil and refuse, wood ashes and sand, this being well
mixed with it. Very light soils would be rendered more suitable
for Peach culture by the addition of clayey loam or marl, this being
pulverised by being first thoroughly dried or baked, and watered
prior to forking it into the surface. Some loamy soils are naturally
very poor, or more so than they appear to be, and to these I would
add a good surfacing of native guano — that is to say, dried and
pulverised sludge obtained from the nearest sewage works. If
trenching cannot be resorted to then prepare holes for each tree,
these being not less than 4 feet from the front to the back. In
either case prepare the sites or the border, if possible, some time
in advance of the planting, in order that the soil may settle down
considerably. Before planting examine the roots, cutting away
any badly bruised and also broken ends, clean cuts healing the
most quickly and surely. Do not open small holes for these,
setting them in and covering straight ahead with two or three
spits of soil, but set the roots on a smooth level surface, covering

894

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 2, 1893,

with some of the best soil each tier of roots according as they
spring from the stem, keeping them up rather than driving them
downwards. The roots are only too ready to strike downwards,
whereas it is near to the surface where they are most wanted.
Keep the collar of the trees, or that part of the stem from which
the top-most roots spring, well above the ordinary level of the
border, or otherwise the time will soon come when they will be
found considerably below the surface. It is the deep root action
that most frequently ends in an attack of “yellows,” and preven-
t'o j u certainly better than cure in this as well as very many other
oases. If the soil is dry when the planting is done give a water¬
ing at the time, but if fairly moist do not water for a few days.
During the first year, and till the trees cover the whole of the
roof. Tomatoes may be grown extensively in the same house,
but their roots ought not to compete with the Peach roots for all
the moisture and food going, or the latter will get the worst of it.
Tomatoes succeed admirably in 12-inch pots, and this method of
culture should be preferred after the first year at any rate.

Lean-to and three-quarter span-roofed houses are mostly erected
for Peach and Nectarine culture in private gardens, the trees being
trained over semicircular trellises along the front, and up the back
walls. These forms of structures, however, are far too expensive
for market gardeners to adopt. Thanks to the introduction of very
early ripening varieties, neither very snug houses nor the expendi¬
ture of much fire heat is necessary in order to have ripe fruit in
April or May ; but those who have either lean-to, three-quarter
span, or span-roofed houses at their disposal may turn these to
account for Peach culture. If the fronts are not less than 6 feet
high, 7 feet is a better height, one-half say being of brickwork and
the rest glazed, the plan of training the trees to cross trellises as
well as up the back walls if any, may be adopted with advantage.
By no other method of arranging the trellises can so many trees
be grown to a large size in one house. These cross trellises should
be arranged at right angles with the front of the house, and be
from 4 feet to 5 feet apart. The framework may be constructed
of gas-piping, to this being fastened coarse wire diamond mesh
netting, 4-inch mesh answers well, this being continued over the
pathway along the back and fastened to the wall. Supposing the
borders are formed of good holding loam and other materials added
as suggested, a few hundredweight of ground bones not being
wasted, there is no reason why the trees should not be planted
two to each trellis and back to back instead of only one to each.
In this case the wire netting should also be doubled or disposed on
each side of the uprights. Once the trellises and back walls are
well covered with trees, or, say, in the course of three or four
years, extraordinary numbers of fruit can be had from a house in
which this plan of arranging the trees is practised. If it fails it
will most probably be because sufficient head room is not given,
cross trellises being altogether out of place in comparatively low
houses.

Standard Peach and Nectarine trees planted in span-roofed
houses will produce enormous crops, but only a small portion of
the fruit is sufficiently exposed to the sun to colour properly, and
badly coloured fruits, as I have previously pointed out, are not
wanted. Pot culture is preferable to growing standards, as trees
in pots can be frequently turned and shifted about, the fruit
colouring well accordingly. All the same I do not strongly recom¬
mend pot culture. That capital crops of showy fruit can be had
from trees in pots I do not dispute, but it means far more time
and labour than most market growers can afford to devote to them.
Trees well established in pots and carrying a heavy crop of fruit
require a great quantity of water and liquid manure, two and some¬
times three waterings in a day being required during very hot
weather. A few hours’ neglect spoils the prospect for a whole year.
At the same time if a fairly large span-roof or other form of high
fronted house is devoted to Peach and Nectarine trees in pots,
these latter after tbe fruit is gathered can be placed and kept
outside, while a paying crop of late autumn and early winter
Tomatoes is grown. Chrysanthemums also do well in such
structures.

If pot culture is decided upon the cheapest way to work up
a stock of trees is to buy maidens and place these in pots just
large enough to hold the roots comfortably, a fairly rich loamy
compost, not forgetting to add an 8-inch potful of bonemeal to
every two bushels of soil, being used. Drain the pots lightly and
well and pot firmly. Supposing this is done as early in the
autumn as the trees can be obtained, they need not be housed, but
rnay be kept in the open, the pots being well protected with strawy
litter till next spring. They need not really be grown under glass
during the following season, but would be all the better for being
forwarded with the assistance of a little artificial heat, and might
well, therefore, share a house with Tomatoes. — Makket Grower.

(To be continued.)

Cypripeditjm Clonius.

A PLANT of this exceedingly interesting hybrid was exhibited by
Messrs. James Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea, at
the Drill Hall, Westminster, on Tuesday, October 24th, when the
Orchid Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society awarded a
first-class certificate for it. It is the result of a cross between
C. caudatum Lindeni and C. conchiferum, and as will be seen by
referring to the illustration (fig. 58), is a very fine flower. The
dorsal sepal is long and pointed, white veined with pale green,
as also are the petals, which have tail-like appendages 9 inches in
length. The lip is ivory white faintly spotted with reddish brown,
and is of a unique character.

L^lio-Cattleya Pisandra.

During the past few years Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons of
Chelsea have raised many charming bigeneric Orchids, and when
exhibited these have usually attracted more than ordinary attention.
The same occurred at the Drill Hall on Tuesday, October 24th,
when the above mentioned firm staged a plant of Lselio-Cattleya
Pisandra. This is a pretty flower, and worthy of the first-class
certificate which was awarded on that occasion. It is the re«ult of
a cross between Lselia crispa and Cattleya Eldorado. As depicted
in the illustration (fig. 60) on page 407 the bloom is medium in
size, but exceedingly beautiful. The sepals and petals are of a
pale rosy mauve shade, the front lobe of lip being a very rich
maroon ; and the golden yellow in the throat is a conspicuous
feature in the flower,

Cattleya marginata.

Amongst the smaller Cattleyas this species is most conspicuous,
and its beauty has rendered it a favourite with Orchid growers
generally. It is also one of the few Cattleyas that succeed best
on blocks, and in this respect it forms a charming companion for
the fragrant C. citrina, C. Walkeriana, and others. These, unlike
many other species, do not produce good results when in pots,
and the peculiar downward-growing habit of C. citrina especially
unfits it for that mode of culture. C . marginata is a Brazilian
Orchid, and was introduced many years ago. It is now included in
most large collections of Orchids, and fairly good plants can be
purchased for half a guinea. One reason why it is a favourite is
because it thrives in a cooler temperature than the majority of the
Cattleyas, a recommendation of great value where highly heated
houses are objected to, as they are in many establishments. The
cool end of an ordinary plant stove or an intermediate house will
suit it, and if attention be particularly paid to the supplying water
frequently little difficulty will be experienced with the plant.

The flowers are of moderate size ; the petals much broader than
the sepals, but, like them in colour, usually a soft rosy purple, the
lip being intensely rich crimson, with a narrow margin of white,
and a white throat, which contrasts very markedly with the rich
coloured portion. These tints, however, vary considerably in
depth, brightness, and clearness, and the value of the plant varies
proportionally to its merits in these respects. The flowers are
usually borne singly from the top of the small bulbs, but occa¬
sionally two may be produced, though this is comparatively rare.
In many collections it is now flowering freely, and a quality of
inestimable value at this time of year when Orchid flowers are so
scarce is the great time they last in beauty. Under favourable
conditions flowers will remain upon the plants for six weeks,
continuing attractive from September till the middle of
November. — Specialist.

NEW PICOTEES.

(^Concluded from page 383.)

Although an effort has recently been made to abolish this namefor
a section of the Carnations, old growers, and indeed young ones too,
have shown very little inclination to do so. The designation “ Picotee,”
as a distinctive name for the edged or margined section, has been in use
for a great portion of this century, and so let it remain, for it is thoroughly
understood. Of the extreme beauty and refinement of this section there
cannot be any doubt, and blooms of some of the very best kinds in
cultivation, when the dresser’s art is not too heavily pushed, are really
beautiful. But it is to write of the newer sorts of Picotees that I have
set myself, and to the uninitiated I may say that all in this section
have a body of colour of white, ivory white, as pure in colour as possible,

November 2, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

896

and free from small spots of colour or minute bars or elongated spots
and the margin, whether light, medium, or heavy, of one shade only.

New Varieties.

Boadicea (Thomson). — Heavy purple edge. A very good flower, of
medium size, with broad petal, and clear ground colour.

Dr. Huxley (Thomson). — Medium rose edge. A refined flower of
excellent form.

Esther (Geggie). — Light purple edge, good size, broad petal, clear
white ground, with bright edging. One of the best of its class.

Heroine (Sharp). — A heavy bright cherry rose edge, very distinct in
colour. A handsome flower, with pure white ground colour.

Lady Alfrida. — A Clara Penson style of flower but finer, with an
excellent petal, pure ground colour, and bright wire edging.

Lady Gordon Cathcart (Turner). — A light red edge, pure in the
ground colour, fine broad petals, and of good substance.

Lady Emily Van de Weyer (Turner). — Light rose edge, with very
broad smooth petal well continued to the crown, good size and of fine
form.

Miriam (Bacon). — Medium, purple edge. A splendid flower, clear
white with fine broad petals of good substance.

Miss Laliin (Lakin). — Light purple edge, the white pure, of fine
form.

Mrs. Beal (Beal). — Medium rose edge, a very beautiful flower,
excellent petal with clear white ground. An improvement
on Fellowes’ Ethel, good grower.

Mrs, Burnetts (Chaundy). — Medium, rose edging in¬
clining to heavy. A large flower and of fine quality.

Mrs. Openshaw (Geggie). — Heavy purple edge, fine
broad petal, clear lustrous white ground with bright edging.

A flower which gives a promise of a high position in its
class.

Madeline. — Eose edged, very fine broad petal and good
form, but rather thin as seen about Birmingham.

Me Plus Ultra (Lakin). — Pure white ground colour
with a very heavy red edge, fine form, good substance,
the darkest heavy red edge. An extra fine flower.

Polly Brazil. — A splendid flower, pure white with
bright heavy purple edge. One of the best in class.

Pride of Ley\on (Headlands). — Light distinct purple
edge ; a flower of good size, broad petal, and lustrous clear
white ground colour.

Rosie Sydenham (Sharp). — Pure ground colour, with a
superb broad petal of great substance, and a flower of
very fine quality ; medium light rose edge.

Souvenir de Headland (Headland). — Light rose edge ;
a large bloom, clear white ground colour, but a feather
edge flower.

Scarlet Queen (Sharp). — This charming flower is best
described as a bright scarlet edge Mrs. Sharp, but un¬
fortunately the stock is very limited at present.

Mrs. Herbert (Thomson). — This variety has maintained
its character for refinement ; a beautiful flower, but not
large.

Other new sorts which I have not seen are being sent
out by Mr. Dodwell, who speaks highly of Mrs. Lovatt
especially, by Mr. George Chaundy and others. Informa¬
tion regarding these can be found in their catalogues.

Crayon d'Or. — A distinct flower, primrose, distinctly lined with
pale scarlet, and remarkable for its strong clove perfume.

Elmis. — Pale primrose barred with lilac and orange. A very dis¬
tinct flower of good quality.

Fri drich Wagner (Benary), — Lemon, barred with light brownish
lilac. A distinct fine flower. M?,

Fanny Trommsdorff. — Blush tinted, white ground, striped halfjway
down the petal with lilac purple. A grand bloom with fine petals.

F. A. Haage (Benary). — A very novel flower, creamy buff ground
distinctly flaked with carmine and slate and of good form.

Golden Bain (Douglas). — A large full flower of excellent form, buff
ground colour suffused with bright red. Very distinct and pleasing.

Lohengrin (Benary). — Primrose, barred with rosy carmine. Aifinq
flower of good quality and large size.

Yellow Ground and Fancy Varieties.

What a wonderful improvement in these during the
last few years. Mr. James Douglas has introduced many
fine varieties of his own raising, and Mr. Dodwell has
also contributed a large number, and other English
raisers are at work. Then Mr. Benary, and other eminent
German florists, have been devoting much attention to the Carnation,
and have introduced varieties of sterling merit and distinctness, and
these glorious fancy varieties are becoming very popular. In the
“ Florists’ Guide ” for 1827-1829 there is a coloured plate of what in
those days must have been a fine yellow-ground fancy variety named
Erasmus, and it is described as having been previously imported from
Germany by the celebrated old florist, Thomas Hogg of Paddington Green,
London. It is referred to as one of the finest varieties on account of
its rich colours and its broad, Eose-shaped petals, so that the German
florists are not novices in the raising of fine yellow-ground varieties. I
may say that in fancies Carnations and Picotees are getting very
much mixed, as flakes and stripes run down the petals in some kinds,
and the distinctive fine edging of the florists’ Picotee is so little met
with in some varieties, the Continental ones especially.

Brand von Hamburg, — A medium-sized flower, orange ground colour,
with bright orange scarlet mai kings, smooth petal, and an acquisition.

Calypso (Benary). — Of dwarf habit, rich coloured clouded crimson
and maroon, with a lighter colour at the base of each petal. A very
distinct, rich coloured flower, of good form and substance.

Celsius (Benary). — Old gold colour, flaked with scarlet, fine and
distinct.

Duchess of Portland (Simonite). — A large flower with broad petals,
pale yellow ground colour with mauve edge, and a free bloomer.

Eclipse (Simonite). — Large size, good form, and petal, rich creamy
yellow ground with bright scarlet edge, and slightly striped with the
same colour.

fig. 58. — CYPRIPEDIDM CLONIUS.
{See page 394.)

Mrs. Henwood (^Doug\&^'). — A beautiful light yellow-ground flower
with bright scarlet edge and good broad petal. A decided acquisition.

Molthe (Benary). — Deep yellow with heavy red edge. Quite an
acquisition and distinct.

Miss Gilmore (Simonite). — Pale cream ground with rosy mauve
edging.

Mrs, Rolert Sydenham (Douglas). — The finest of all the yellow
ground varieties. The colour is a rich creamy yellow with bright
rose edging, with fine petal and of great substance. A superbly brilliant
flower of the finest quality.

Mrs. William Spencer. — A seedling of Mr. Herbert’s, best described
as a fine companion variety to Mrs. Eobert Sydenham. Primrose yellow

896

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 2, 1893

ground with a Picotee edging of mauve purple, and in every way an
extra fine flower.

Parsifid. — A German variety of a rich rose tinted chocolate colour
with a lemon base in each petal, of large size and very fine quality ; a
great acquisition and quite distinct.

Queen Boadicea (Simonite). — Bright light yellow ground with wire
edge of bri.eht scarlet, slightly barred ; a pretty flower.

Itosalinde (Denary). — Beautiful deep yellow ground colour with a
medium Picotee edging of rosy purple, a very attractive flower, and has
been greatly admired.

Undine (Denary). — White ground, barred half way down the petals
with greyish rose ; a large and very distinct flower.

Von Benningsen (Denary). — Although not quite new it is as yet very
little known ; brilliant in colour, orange ground marked with brightest
scarlet.

William Breer. — Very bright rich salmon tinted ground colour with
carmine markings.

It will thus be seen by the list I have given that there is almost a
plethora of new varieties, although several of the German varieties of
1893 are passed over. I have seen all those described above, but there are
still several other fine kinds being introduced. Mr. Dodwell has some,
and Mr, Douglas, Mr. Turner, Mr. Chaundy and others have new kinds
which I have not seen. It is quite evident that our English florists are
well ahead in hybridising and raising, and that other very fine varieties
are forthcoming. Some varieties, both old and new, will have to be
thrown out of collections, for not one cultivator in a hundred could
give time and room to so many new sorts as I have named, in addition
to the best older favourite varieties. In Mr. Turner’s stand at Birming¬
ham there was a fine yellow-ground variety named Adeld, pale cream
edged with scarlet ; and Miss Proctor, creamy buff striped with bright
scarlet, both fine.

In seifs Rose Wynne has fine petal and form ; Rose Unique, bright
light rose, fine broad smooth petal and of very fine form ; King of
Scarlets is an extra fine bright scarlet ; and Justinian, a lively light pink
self, is pretty, but is not turning out to be an acquisition. — W. D.

Hybrid Briar Roses.

Is Mr. David K. Williamson as accurate as he usually is in his
statement (page 384) that Lord Penzance’s hybrids are from “ the wild
Roses of the woodlands ? ” I do not know whether the Sweet Briar comes
under this poetical description, but I believe Lord Penzance’s hybridisa¬
tion experiments have been mostly, if not entirely, in connection with
the scented variety of the Briar. I understand these hybrid Sweet Briars
will not be distributed till the autumn of 1894, so it will be some time
before rosarians will be in the possession and enjoyment of them. Their
names will please the Scotsmen, as they comprise such celebrities
as Amy Robsart, Anne of Gierstein, Lucy Ashton, and other well known
heroines of the Wizard of the North. — Charles J. Grahame,
Croydon.

Autumnal Roses,

Every Hybrid Perpetual Rose should bloom well in the autumn to be
worthy of its name. Nevertheless it cannot be denied that there are
many admirable varieties, supposed to be perpetual, which, during the
months of September and October, produce an insignificant number of
remarkably small-sized blooms. In the summer they are exceedingly
prolific ; probably at that period, inspired by the strong sunlight, they
attempt too much ; in the autumn they have the aspect of having been
utterly exhausted by their previous exertions, Charles Lefebvre, for
example, which produced in July a succession of truly magnificent Roses,
bloomed during the autumn with manifest difficulty ; his Lilliputian
productions could only be regarded as lamentable miscarriages by those
who had witnessed his earlier achievements. The cool season, so
eminently favourable to the preservation of his complexion, deprives
him of half his normal strength. On the other hand, such varieties as
the Pride of Waltham, Crown Prince, Ella Gordon, Magna Charta,
which is, like its namesake, a “perpetual” possession; Prince Arthur,
and his venerable parent G^nfiral Jacqueminot, Mr. Cranston’s Crimson
Bedder, likewise La France, Victor Hugo, and Augustine Guinoisseau,
have been of late in my own garden remarkably fine.

The largest individual Rose I have seen this year I found blooming
yesterday (October 20th) on Baroness Rothschild. Had it only been
fragrant I would have attached more importance to its splendour of
colouring and marvellous dimensions ; but the imperial Rose in question
is scentless. The same applies to the White Baroness and the
stately Merveille de Lyon. Magna Charta, described by the Dean of
Rochester as almost a summer variety, is, nevertheless, according to my
own experience, a splendid autumn Rose, and as much may be asserted
of that veritable Queen of the Hybrid Perpetuals, Mrs. John Laing,
But from this special point of view by far the most valuable Roses are
XT j ps^rticularly such specimens as Ernest Metz, Comtesse de

p 1 Gifford, Marie Van Houtte, Etoile de Lyon,

Perle des Jardins, and Belle Lyonaisse. In power of productiveness

even the most prolific of the Hybrid Perpetuals must suffer considerably
when compared with these. How beautiful, beyond all artistic deline¬
ation,’ are their infinitely varied, yet marvellously harmonising hues !
In them the evanescent colours of the rainbow, of the sunrise and the
sunset, are gloriously combined. — David R. Williamson.

Rose Analysis, 1886—1893.

Mr. Grahame says that he is a “ business man.” But surely it is
a very unbusinesslike proceeding for one man to condemn the work of
another in such a high-handed and reckless fashion as he has mine
(page 384) without adducing a single particle of evidence in support of
the theory he has advanced against it. Mr. Grahame asserts that the
crude figures should rule the analysis throughout. But this only shows
how little knowledge he has of even the elementary principles which
should guide anyone dealing with facts such as those I had at my
disposal for the purposes of my last Rose analysis. For instance, I take
up the first work of reference that comes to hand, “ Chambers’ Encyclo¬
pedia,” and at the end of a short article on “ Statistics ” I find the
following appropriate words of caution, “ The frequent connection of
statistics with political theories renders it important to guard against
premature statistical conclusions, of which two very fertile sources
are calculations from an insufficient number of data, and neglect to
make allowance for disturbing causes."

Had Mr. Grahame been specially trained, as years of meteorological
w'ork have trained me, for this particular kind of investigation, he
would know that there is a very great difference indeed between
making due and proper allowances for such disturbing causes, and
altering facts to suit preconceived theories as Mr. Grahame clearly
infers I have done. It is, I conclude, owing to his inability to appre¬
ciate the wide distinction between these two methods that he fails to
understand the serious nature of the charge he has made against me.

The fact is, what is wanted above everything else in all investigations
of this character, is not so much the actual figures themselves as that
the results given should be made as comparable as circumstances will
allow. Now I have no theories whatever of my own which I wish to
thrust upon the readers of the Jouryial of Ilortieulture in framing these
analyses, my only object being to make the materials at my disposal
tell their own tale. This they would fail to tell truly in many
cases owing to the disturbing causes mentioned on page 358,
but fair and impartial allowances having been .made for them,
the averages when calculated are considered ready for insertion in the
printed analysis. If I were to give in every case the crude results I
should not be guiding, but on the contrary be often misleading your
readers.

Mr. Grahame considers that had I more data each year to go upon
the results would come out differently. Possibly this might be the
case to a certain extent, but so consistent are the records from year to
year that 1 cannot think the relative positions of the different varieties
in the tables would be in any way seriously affected. Moreover, there
are several grave objections to adopting such a course now. In the first
place the data would not be obtained entirely from the same unexcep¬
tional sources — only prize stand blooms being now admissible. Then,
again, the records would not be strictly comparable with those
secured under the system adopted during the past eight years. Besides
which I am afraid I should have to give up the work altogether through
want of adequate leisure to carry it on satisfactorily. Looking as
impartially as it is possible for a compiler to do upon one of his own
bantlings, I must say I cannot help feeling proud of this last Rose
analysis of mine. 1, The sources from which the data are obtained are
beyond question, being the unconscious contributions of all our leading
rosarians throughout the country. 2, Now that I have comparable
results for eight years before me I begin to see how the figures obtained
each year support and confirm one another. This, indeed, is my
greatest source of satisfaction, for had my method of analysis been
unsound this could not possibly have been the case, considering the
different dates at which our National Show is held, and the varying
nature of Rose seasons. — E. M., Berlihamsted.

[Mr. Mawley’s records, on which the results as representing the
actual relative differences in value of the varieties enumerated, have
been submitted to us, and we are able to say that the conclusions
arrived at are not founded on individual fancy, but on actual figures,
these figures representing accomplished facts ; the final issue, there¬
fore, though it may appear arbitrary, is mathematically correct as
deduced from the compilations over a series of years. One of the
leading statisticians in London has also examined the records, and he
finds the deductions from them are true according to the elaborate
and, we must add, laborious system adopted in their preparation. We
have no hesitation in expressing our appreciation of the painstaking
manner which Mr. Mawley adopts in the preparation of his valuable
analyses as applied to Roses, Chrysanthemums, and Dahlias.]

Roses and Oysters.

It may seem a far cry from Roses to oysters — from the choicest
gems of earth to the most valued treasures of the ocean. Certainly
some Roses are said to have shell petals, and both Roses and oysters
require a well regulated supply of water, although neither may care to
drink the special beverage of the other one, otherwise they would appear
to have no resemblance or tastes in common. However, when attend¬
ing the Mayor’s oyster feast which was held with all due pomp and
ceremony in the Corn Exchange, Colchester, I had an opportunity of
judging bow under certain favourable circumstances it was possible for

November 2, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

397

them to become almost inseparably connected, for on that occasion the
guests were said to have consumed about 10,000 oysters, while the tables
had been most tastefully decorated by the ladies of the district with no
fewer than 4000 Roses, As the President of the National Rose Society,
the Dean of Rochester, remarked in the course of a most entertaining
after-luncheon speech, “ He supposed there never was an occasion in
which there was such a combination of things pleasant to the eye and
good for food as there was that day — a combination of Roses and oysters.”
He said, “ Well might the early Britons turn their backs on their acorns
and flock to Colchester. Well might the judicious Roman bring his
camp and plant it by the side of the Colne. Well might the Saxon,
the Dane, and the Norman come and settle down at Colchester. Kings
and great generals had fought battles for Colchester.

“‘Why, then, the world’s mine oyster,

Which I with sword will open. ’

“ Well, too, might those great ecclesiastics, the Abbot of St. John’s and
the Prior of St. Botolph, alleviate their days of abstinence as they
alleviated them that day.”

I only arrived at eleven o’clock in the morning, and the feast was
fixed for two o’clock in the afternoon, but I determined to make the
best use of the three hours at my disposal, for I thought I could not
well come to Colchester without giving myself the treat of visiting the
nurseries of the two Cants. As these are both about a mile from the
station, and more than two miles apart by road, and also about two
miles distant from the Corn Exchange, I had little time to spare for
either nursery. However, I did manage to see and learn something,
and had the still greater pleasure of a chat about Roses with
representatives of each firm.

The plants I saw, both dwarfs and standards, notwithstanding the
dry summer, had made excellent growth ; but it was piteous to behold
the gaps in the rows of the latter, so many stocks having been killed
during the trying winter of 1892-1893, owing to the frost setting in so
early in the season, and the dry spring which followed. There were no
flowers to be seen, as every bloom worth looking at had been cut off and
carried away hours before to decorate the Corn Exchange. But there
were the plants by thousands with splendidly ripened shoots looking as
if ready for removal to their new homes at a moment’s notice.

I was always under the impression that all the soil round Colchester
was of a heavy retentive nature, but much that I saw in these nurseries
was a comparatively light loam with a certain amount of sandstone grit
in it. It is in such soils that fibrous roots are encouraged, and I was
told that the plants become more quickly established in these quarters
than where the soil is heavier. I happened recently to find this out in
my own garden at Berkhamsted, where the soil is composed of yellow
clay and flints, and where Rose plants take a long time to get hold of
the ground, but when once established make great growth. Last autumn
I had occasion to move about a hundred dwarf H.P.’s, and thought I
would try the plan of using when replanting them some gritty soil —
turfy edgings cut from the roadsides — to place about their roots. This
plan has answered so well that the plants in question have already in
less than a twelvemonth become as strong as I could wish to see them.
When amateurs receive plants which have not extra strong shoots from
the nurseries, they are, I find, invariably disappointed. This is, however,
a great mistake, for it is the plants of moderate growth, 1 do not mean
“ starvelings,” which have well ripened shoots and fibrous roots, like those
I saw the other day at Colchester, which will become established most
readily, and therefore thrive best in their gardens the following
season. On receipt of such plants do not expose their roots to
the drying action of the atmosphere a moment longer than is
absolutely necessary. This is an oft-repeated injunction, but how
seldom in practice is it followed ! Place some light fibrous soil, if
obtainable, above and below their roots, and plant firmly. By using
such soil as I have recommended they may be put in the ground
satisfactorily, even when the rest of the bed is too wet for the operation.
Afterwards secure the shoots to a firm stake, so that they may not be
shaken by high winds. How often do I hear Rose nurserymen blamed for
sending out bad plants when after all the fault rests entirely with the
bad planting of the purchaser.

Another thing I learnt at Colchester was that the demand for what
the N.R.S. catalogue calls “ garden Roses” is on the increase. The
individual flowers may not be so perfect as those of the exhibition
varieties, but their colours are often most enchanting, and many of them
are extremely free-flowering. I asked why standards were always in
such request for suburban and other small gardens when dwarf plants
were so much cheaper and more lasting? I was told that the owners of
these gardens invariably replied that when they had a few standard
Rose trees there was something to look at when they come into flower,-but
as to the dwarfs they become hidden away among other plants in the
summer, and so were never seen. These suburban and other gardeners
should learn once for all that the queen of flowers will brook no rival,
and that, therefore, it becomes imperative to provide a special bed
however small for these bush Roses. Both nurseries are situated on
rising ground, and this accounts for their comparative freedom from
spring frosts. Coming from a colder and harsher climate I was
particularly struck with the even blankless rows of dwarf Teas the result
of last year’s budding. There were two Teas, however, which I noticed
had suffered considerably at all events on the standards, and these were
Perle des Jardins and that charming sport from it Sunset, the latter
a most delightful variety, as I well know under glass.

I had not time to see the Roses in pots at Mr. Benjamin Cant’s nursery,
but I did manage to glance through the new Rose house at Braiswick.

I can only say that better plants I have never seen. No wonder
Mr. Frank Cant was able to set up such charming boxes of cut blooms
at the Drill Hall, Westminster, last spring. I noticed that on these
occasions the visitors, more especially the ladies, invariably deserted
the beautiful Orchids and other exhibits in order to crowd round these
Rose boxes. After all there is no flower like the Rose. I do hope
Dr. Wallace, the champion of the Lily, whose acquaintance I had the
pleasure of making at Colchester, will not notice this last hackneyed
remark of mine. Should he happen to do so, perhaps he will be good
enough to understand that I only meant that there was no other
flower precisely similar to the Rose. The two most vivid impressions
left on my mind by my hasty scramble over the Colchester hills were
the fine pot Roses at Braiswick and a quarter of grand standard Teas at
the nursery of that veteran Rose grower Mr. Benjamin Cant. The
Colchester people are justly proud of their oysters, but after all the
real “ natives ” of the district are to my mind the Roses. Nowhere else,
considering how limited is the area covered by the three leading
Colchester nurseries (for that of Messrs. Prior & 8ons, which I should
much like also to have visited, must of course be included) are Roses so
largely grown. The only wonder is that there are not more amateur
exhibitors in this fertile district. I only know of one (Mr. 0. G. Orpen
of West Bergholt), who from his small garden shows Tea Roses so
brilliantly as to excite the envy and jealousy of all competing against
him, including the writer of this somewhat rambling contribution. —
E. M.

VEGETABLE CULTURE IN ADVERSE SEASONS.

{Conelvded from page 263.')

Celery.

This vegetable must not be neglected when in the seed bed by
allowing the soil to become too dry, or the plants will late in the
season have hollow stalks, or seed prematurely. Sow the seeds in
shallow boxes, with decayed manure placed upon the drainage. Raise
the seedlings without bottom heat if possible, and when the plants have
produced a second rough leaf, prick them in good soil in boxes or frames
with drainage similar to that provided for the seed boxes. Never allow the
plants to flag, but grow them steadily without undue forcing. Have the
trenches ready long before the plants are to occupy them. Previously
to planting in their permanent quarters another transplanting must
take place. Select a position with a hard bottom, put manure in first,
then 3 inches of rich soil, make it firm and plant therein. They will
remove from this position to the trenches with good balls of soil adher¬
ing to the roots and the growth will not be checked.

Trenches in the ordinary sense I do not believe in, for such often
means starvation to the plants during the remainder of the season.
How can the plants be expected to flourish when all the best soil is
taken out, and they are put into the cold subsoil ? The trenches ought
not to be more than 6 or 9 inches deep, and if the soil be not of a good
general depth I prefer to plant on the surface. Some decayed manure
should be dug into the trench and well mixed with the ground, a little
loose soil afterwards placed over it. When it is dry tread all down
firmly. The trenches may be made wide enough to hold two rows of
plants if so needed, but one row is preferable. Attention to watering is
necessary, and a light mulching may be given them. Those who have
not yet tried the plan of growing Celery on the level ground would do
well to test it. I have done so for several seasons, and always in the
same place. The ground was made very firm, then planted, and the
plants watered regularly, liquid manure being applied every week, and
a mulching of manure placed on early in the season, the plants
soon required staking, but the growth was solid. For exhibition pur¬
poses a few plants treated in this way will give pleasure to the
cultivator.

Earthing up is often begun when the plants are 9 inches or 1 foot
high, and from that time they suffer through want of water, because it
cannot get at the roots. Earthing does not make the plants grow. It is
done to blanch the stalks, and from six to eight weeks before they are
required for use is soon enough for the first earthing to be done,
previously giving a copious supply of water. Some growers use paper,
but slugs get under this and eat the stems, making them unsightly. A
few ashes and sand mixed placed next to the plants, following with the
ordinary soil, is all that is required. All suckers and split leaves must
be taken off. Sutton’s White Gem and Sandringham White for early
use, with Sulham Prize Pink, Major Clarke’s Red, and Standard Bearer
for late use, are the best varieties in my opinion, and I can strongly
recommend them.

Dwarf and Runner Beans.

Runner Beans require much the same treatment as do Peas, but
avoid sowing too soon. The seeds should be sown in an irregular line in
the drill quite 9 inches asunder. This is not too far apart, as the plants
fill out very quickly when well grown. Dwarf varieties ought to have
the same space allowed them, crowding of the plants being not conducive
to a full crop. An amateur once saw some I had planted after the
manner described, and wondered at the waste of ground, but when he
afterwards saw the crop he was more surprised, and said he should not
in future sow' so thickly as he had done. If the ground is rich, and the
plants grow freely, it is advisable to place a few short branching sticks
to Dwarf Bean plants, as by so doing straight even pods are produced,
which could not be if the plants were lying on the ground. No doubt
some of the newer varieties of Runner Beans are acquisitions, and

898

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 2, 1893,

decided improvements upon most of the old kinds during some seasons ;
but such sorts as Neal’s Ne Plus Ultra and Scarlet Champion are to be
depended upon. Of Dwarf varieties few are better than Canadian
Wonder and Ne Plus Ultra.

Leeks.

March is the best month in which to sow seeds to produce Leeks for
ordinary uses, but for exhibition the first week in February is the most
suitable time. Sow the seed in boxes, and treat the plants similarly to
Celery. In light soil it is advisable to plant in well manured trenches,
but on very stiff soil plant on the level ground. Treat this crop
generously, give copious waterings of liquid manure during the summer.
Plant deeply, earth up to blanch like Celery, giving a good drenching
of water first. Sutton’s Prizetaker is a good variety, mild in flavour,
but, according to my experience, sometimes liable to soft growth ;
perhaps the fault lies in the soil only. The Lyon is not surpassed.

Vegetable Marrows.

These have certainly been very plentiful this year. Our plants
have been grown in mounds of soil surrounded with plenty of old leaves
upon which the shoots have lain. They were poor plants when first put
out, but by shading from the sun for a short time they soon began to fruit,
and a constant supply has been forthcoming. The seeds should be sown
in April, plants duly potted as required, and planted out the end of
May or beginning of June on beds which contain plenty of rich soil.
During dull weather it is advisable to fertilise the flowers. Moore’s
Vegetable Cream is the best Marrow that I have grown.

Before concluding, I would like to say a few words about these vege¬
tables for preparing and exhibition and staging them. Good produce
may be almost spoilt by slovenly staging. Selection of the different
varieties is the first consideration, and mere size is not always to be
relied upon. If possible, everything should be had when at its best.
Do not forget to use the fork when lifting roots. Do not scrub them
with a hard brush, but soak them in water, and use the sponge only
to remove the dirt. Select Cauliflowers before their heads open, or
they will be partially spoilt. Cucumbers and Vegetable Marrows should
be as even in size and as faultless as possible. Carrots ought to be a
good colour, and Turnips not too old or stringy inside. Peas must be
young and tender, and Potatoes even in size, as nearly eyeless as pos¬
sible, and clear in the skin. Use plenty of Parsley in staging. Stage
in such a way as will show up each dish separately, and to the
very best advantage. This applies in the case of a collection being
arranged. There is some art to be displayed in arranging a fine collec¬
tion of vegetables. Separate dishes call for the same care and attention.
I should like to take this opportunity of advocating that space be liberally
given, as is generally done by societies, on the bare tables, and the
entire abolition of trays in the case of collections of vegetables. —
Geo. Garner.

PRACTICAL DINNER TABLE DECORATIONS.

[By Mr. H- Dunkix. Read at a meeting of the Ealing Gardeners’ Improvement

Society.]

I HAVE prefixed the title of this paper by the word “ practical,”
because many styles of dinner table decorations in vogue at the present
time, such as one sees at exhibitions, are not practicable as far as the
majority of gardeners are coneerned. This statement I feel sure will
-not easily pass unchallenged unless I am able to advance sound reasons
to justify so emphatic an assertion. I will therefore attempt to do so
before proceeding further.

The reason why we see so great a disparity between the styles and
arrangement of dinner table embellishments at public exhibitions and
those carried out in the homes of the wealthy, is to a great extent due
to the fact that those who carry out the former select with great care
the glasses and stands employed for arranging the flowers in, and in
some instances have them specially made for the purpose, while
gardeners in the majority of private places have to adapt their floral
arrangements to the incongruous and generally far too massive epergnes,
stands, bowls, and baskets which are provided. These are in many
instances ancient and costly ornaments of gold and silver, works of high
art in themselves, but not well fitted to enable the decorator to show
his ability in devising and carrying out artistic arrangements which are
in accord with the advanced and refined taste of present times. These
■elaborate ornaments are frequently heirlooms which have been handed
down through many successive generations, and are in consequence
highly prized by those ancient families who still retain them, and who
are as proud on befitting occasions to display them before their guests
as they are to show the floral gems of their garden or the artistic
ability of their gardeners, who, in reality, only reflect the good taste of
their employers. I maintain, therefore, that real ability in this kind of
work is best shown by choosing the most suitable materials at command
for each individual set of ornaments, and arranging them so as to obtain
a good effect without paying too much regard to conventional style,
always making a point to have some special feature in each attempt,
some feature which will strike at once each beholder, and by it be after¬
wards remembered. It is, I think, scarcely necessary for me to add
the prominent feature should be one which does not offend eyes well
trained to a due balance between accurately proportioned forms and
well blended colours.

The old method of using a considerable variety of colour at each
attempt is now almost extinct, and in many of the best decorations
now carried out only one colour is used in addition to that supplied by

the greenery. Speaking generally, white may with advantage be added
to almost any combination. When, however, a series of dinner parties
are held which necessitate extensive decorations, it is policy, on several
occasions, to keep to one colour only, without even the addition of
white. A more varied effect may in this way be produced with a given
amount of materials than can be secured by any other means which I
am aware of.

In selecting flowers for the purpose care should be taken to use
only those which look well when seen under the influence of arti¬
ficial light, unless, as is rarely the case, dinner is partaken of by
daylight. The various shades of pink, rose, and scarlet are, I
think, more telling under artificial light than any other colours
or shades of colour; certain it is that when well executed designs
in which either of these colours — especially the two first-named —
are employed, they command universal and, in some instances,
enthusiastic admiration. Dark blue and purple flowers should
invariably be avoided, but pale blue ones often look exceedingly pretty
when arranged with soft yellow flowers or foliage, or when yellow
coloured silk is laid upon the cloth. I have frequently heard and read
that yellow flowers are not effective when seen under artificial light.
Some shades may not be, but I can scarcely imagine how we could well
dispense with the fine clear j^ellow and bronzy yellow shades of Chrys¬
anthemums, which have a peculiar and delightful beauty of their own,
and are, moreover, especially adapted for dinner-table embellishments.
Simple rules as to which colours harmonise with each other are useful
to beginners ; but those who have a correct eye for colour should rely
solely on that gift to guide them in the art of colour-blending. They
will then be able to work out many exquisite combinations of colour,
which those who rely principally upon a dogmatic code of rules can
never imitate without running great risk of offending the more correct
and sensitive optical organs of tbose with a good eye for colour. When
there is any doubt as to the appearance the colours intended for use
will present under artificial light, the point may easily be settled by
taking the various flowers into a darkened room to examine by the light
— ^gas or lamp.

Every gardener who has had a fair amount of experience in the
arrangement of flowers for whatever purpose, is aware that a light
feathery outline must be obtained to produce a good effect. It is
therefore essential that crowding should at all times be avoided. Some
fail in securing this lightness of arrangement, because they experience
considerable difficulty in fixing the flowers in the exact positions they
require them to occupy. This is, however, easily accomplished by
inserting pieces of box a few inches in length between the stems, so as
to keep each flower held firmly in position. When each glass or stand
is filled I like to look it carefully over, and should there be any appear¬
ance of overcrowding remove a few flowers by cutting the stems asunder
at the water level ; this is far better than pulling them out, as there is
no danger of loosening and disarranging the others. Simple though this
matter may appear it is well worthy of attention. In almost all
arrangements it is important to have a good proportion of small light
flowers cut with long stems, such as Spiraeas, Oncidium flexuosum,
Masdevallias, Epacrises, Cornflowers, Gypsophila paniculata, and a host
of others possessing similar characteristics. When only medium sized
glasses are used flowers of a heavy nature are quite out of piaee except in
the case of those which have a dish-like base. Where, however, mas¬
sive stands or epergnes are used, flowers of a bold type, so long as they
are thinly arranged, should be used.

Styles of Arrangement.

Fashion in this, as in all other kinds of decorative work, is con¬
tinually changing ; but whatever the prevailing method of the day may
be various other styles also must be frequently brought into use when¬
ever a series of dinner parties take place, otherwise monotony is pain¬
fully apparent. I have sometimes noticed on such occasions that a
method of arrangement practised twenty years ago will, if worked out
in the lightness and finish which commends itself to modern taste, and
secure enthusiastic admiration. Tracing, for instance, is not nearly so
much in vogue as it was ten years ago, yet if well done it is extremely
effective ; but then we use things which I consider are far better
adapted for the purpose now, which may have much to do with its
continued popularity. Coleus leaves laid so as to overlap each other
were at one time freely employed, but to my mind they are much too
flat and formal looking. Sprays of Honeysuckle, Weigela rosea, or small
pieces of the feathery Retinosporas, represent aifar more effective type of
material.

At this season of the year, when there is plenty of coloured foliage to
be had, a simple but unique arrangement may be made by covering the
whole space available on the cloth with autumn foliage of several tints.
Berberis aquifolium answers the purpose well. The points of shoots as
well as single leaves should be used, because they will take off the
flatness. A glass or epergne dressed with flowers and Fern should then
be placed in the centre, and two smaller ones on each side if the size of
the table requires them. White flowers arranged in little irregular
groups wherever room can be found for them, with a Fern frond added
here and there complete the arrangement, and if the work has been
well carried out the effect produced is strikingly effective. Tins made
1 inch deep, IJ inch wide, and fitted in a continuous design round the
table, if filled with sand and arranged with Maidenhair Fern, small
trusses of Pelargoniums, Chrysanthemums, or other flowers, look very
pretty. The effect is still better if sockets are made in the tin at
intervals of 2 or 3 feet, so that small glass trumpets may be fitted into

November 2, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

399

the sockets and arranged with flowers. A dressed stand in the centre
with a Cocos Weddelliana on each side, will render the whole light and
quite imposing.

Very pretty plated glass ornaments set in silver are now made in the
form of baskets. Some of these have glass pendants, and glass chains
to connect one basket with another. Some of the most beautiful dinner
tables I have ever seen have been made so by using these baskets. A
table to seat about fifteen is a suitable size to secure good balance. The
largest basket dressed with flowers should be placed in the centre, having
a few long pieces of Smilax (Myrsiphyllnm asparagoides) trailing over
the sides and along the table. Next will come two candelabra, then
two smaller baskets filled with flowers ; eight still smaller ones are then
placed around the sides of the table, the four corner ones being
arranged with small Ferns of various sorts knocked out of 60-sized pots ;
the other four having a small Cocos Weddelliana in the centre, viith
flowers and Fern fronds arranged at their base.

Various other methods of arrangement might be given, but I think
enough has been adduced to serve as a foundation, upon which an
infinite variety of combinations may be worked out by those of an
ingenious turn of mind. I will therefore conclude by giving the outline
of a design which is especially adapted for use during the Chrysan¬
themum season. In this case no stands, glasses, or epergnes of any
description will be required. First cover the centre of the table with
thick brown paper, then cut the outer edges of it into a series of serpen¬
tine sweeps, so as to avoid formality in outline. In the centre, on an
inverted pot, place a plant of Pandanus Veitchi or one of Phoenix
rupicola. Next will come two candelabra, these to be followed by two
graceful plants of Cocos Weddelliana, and two smaller plants of
Pandanus will be suitable for the two ends. Now cover the whole of
the brown paper with fresh green moss, and raised mounds of it to
cover the pots used. If the table is a rather wide one very small
Palms of more graceful kind may be dotted about here and there in
each case, making a tiny mound to cover each pot. Next trace round
the outer edge of the moss with some kind of coloured foliage, and the
most troublesome part of the work is completed. The remainder
consists in dotting Chrysanthemums, both large and small, at irregular
intervals all over the moss, of course avoiding anything approaching
crowding. Some of the Japanese kinds which have drooping petals
should stand well above the moss, so as to display their fantastic beauty
to the best advantage ; this can easily be done if the stems are sharpened
and thrust into the moss, an extra depth of which may be given at such
points. Fronds of Maidenhair and Pteris Ferns and a few small
whorls of Cyperus alternifolius inserted here and there give a finishing
touch to the whole. Anyone who has the opportunity to carry out this
arrangement will, I am sure, be delighted with it, and the guests when
seated round the table will find their eyes resting upon a scene which,
for a moment, might take them in flights of fancy to the realms of
fairyland.

FLORAL NOMENCLATURE.

OBSERViNa a remark on page 381, about the much-discussed pro¬
nunciation of the word Gladiolus, may I briefly sum up all that ever
has been or can be said about it ? It is a general law of pronunciation
that you cannot speak a word in which three short syllables occur
together without accenting one of them. Hence a word of six short
syllables must have two of them accented, as Mesopotamia ; but a word
of five short syllables only requires one to be accented, provided it is in
the middle, as Macedonia. In words of four short syllables such a
pronunciation is, as “ W. R. Raillem ” (page 381) says, practically
impossible. A classical scholar from Oxford or Cambridge would
naturally say Gladiolus, modiolus, following the ordinary habit of
pronouncing the words in Latin. There has been, however, an attempt
in English to turn these words into trisyllabic words, by pronouncing
“i” as “j,” and saying Gladjolus and moijolus ; this, however, is a
modern conceit, which I hope will not prevail. — C. Wolley Dod,

Hall, Half as.

P.S. — The suggested compromise between “ i ” and “ j ” leaves us a
host of words, like medeola, medicia, and polygala, which cannot be
dealt with in the same way.

Curious Spelling of the Names op Fruits and Flowers at

Shows.

The note by “ East Anglia” (page 373) reminds me that I too have
some memoranda on the above-named subject, and now that the autumn
shows are coming on perhaps a few friendly remarks will not be out of
place, and may help towards an improvement in the spelling of the
names of fruits, plants, and flowers. That it does not receive the
attention it deserves is only too evident, as anyone may easily learn if
he will take the trouble to look along the tables at a flower show. I
have often been surprised that some exhibitors are so careless on this
point. It seems to me a pity that a meritorious exhibit should be marred
by a mis-spelt name. “Ahl” says someone, “I hav’n’t had much
schooling, and my memory isn’t good either.” Well I do not blame him
on these accounts, but what I do blame him for is that he did not obtain
and consult a reliable catalogue, and so insure the correct spelling of
names. A good catalogue may usually be begged or borrowed, or, if not,
can be bought for a trifle any day ; therefore there is no excuse.

Here are a few specimens copied at one of the principal shows in the
West of England. 1 have more, but these are enough to show that there

is room for improvement. “lAdmiral Warburton” and “ Wall burton
Admirial” for Walburton Admirable Peach; “Fontail” for Fonthill
Plum; “ Merella ” for Morello Cherry; “Adiantium capilis,” “ Gaa-
cllium,’ and “ Gresseliam” for gracillimum ; “ Nephrelepsis ’’for Nephro-
lepis ; “ Elligants ” for elegans.

I would ask those whom it may concern if it is not worth while to
give the matter a little more attention ? It is not pleasant to stand by
and hear young ladies and schoolboys making fun of gardeners’
spelling. Nor is there any reason why they should have the opportunity.
— West Anglia.

[A reform in the direction indicated is urgently needed at many if
not most exhibitions.]

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

October I 24th.

Scientific Committee. — Present : Dr. Russell (in the chair),
Mr. Blandford, Rev, W. Wilks, Prof. Farmer, and Rev. G. Henslow,
Hon. Sec.

Galls on With reference to the galls exhibited at the last

meeting and recognised as those of Cynips calycis, Mr. Blandford observed
that they are used for tannic acid on the continent, as well as the more
common form, on Quercus infectoria, which contain 50 per cent.

Daffodils and Mice. — Rev. W. Wilks exhibited several bulbs which
had been attacked by Merodon ; but subsequently mice had eaten into
the bulbs, apparently in order to extract the grub, as no perfect bulb was
ever touched. Mr. Wilks intends, and suggests as a means of selection,
to spread out bulbs supposed to be affected where mice can have access
to them, as the sound bulbs will be left untouched.

Daffodil Decaying.— He also showed a bulb which had decayed up
the middle, while the base of the stem was detached together with the
roots. It was referred to Kew for examination.

Onions Diseased. — Some large flattish Onions were exhibited, which
had become completely rotten in the middle at the base of the stem.
Two-thirds of a crop were said to have been lost. They were also
referred to Kew.

Dijured Timber, Photograph. — Prof. Farmer showed photographs of
sections of an ancient Elm, lately cut down at Oxford. They showed a
separation, for three parts of a circle, deeply seated within the stem.
As the subsequent annual rings were at first discontinuous over the
middle point, but gradually closed over it, the interpretation seemed to
be that the tree had been partially decorticated, the wound being
subsequently completely concealed.

Proliferous Fern. — Mr. Veitch forwarded a plant of Adiantum
(which appeared among A. Capillus-Veneris, but had broader pinnules),
having minute fronds starting from the situation of the sori, apparently
being aposporous, and developing new fronds in the place of sporangia.
Mr. Veitch remarks that this is the first time that he had seen this
occurrence on an Adiantum.

Diseased Pears.— With reference to the Pears sent to the last meet¬
ing, Mr. Massee reports that “ the fungus is Gloeosporium fructigerum,
Berh. There is no possibility of arresting the disease in the mature
state of the fruit, but this can be done by using the proper remedy
during the development of the fruit.” The remedy suggested for the
same fungus in Peaches was ” two or three sprayings of potassic sulphide
(one-half ounce to a gallon of water).”

OCTOBER RASPBERRIES AND STRAWBERRIES.

I HAVE picked several small dishes of Raspberries this month, finer
and quite as good fiavoured as they were in the summer and very
highly coloured. I also gathered some on October 27th. — JAS.
Wicketts, Whitcroft, Pershore, Worcestershire.

On the 18th ult. I gathered a good dish of ripe Raspberries, left others
some just colouring, but whether they will ripen is a question. The
fruit is from the summer fruiting varieties, but the crop was a very
light one, the hot dry season having a great effect upon this particular
fruit. — G. R. Hemmings, Ilollingbourne House, near Maidstone.

Messrs. S. Chivers & Sons, Cambridge, writing under date
October 24th to the daily press, say : — “ As an illustration of the very
exceptional character of the season we have taken the liberty to forward
you some fresh gathered Strawberries, being now busy picking and
preserving our second crop this year. We have already, during October,
gathered 1 ton 5 cwt., and as the plants have still a large quantity of
blossom anl green fruit we expect to be able to pick double the weight
if this mild weather continues.”

Referring to Mr. G. Freeman’s note (page 35.3) regarding ripe
Strawberries, I may mention during the last week in September and up
to the present time I have gathered about four and half dozen of ripe
Strawberries from plants grown outdoors. I have only notice two
sorts fruiting — viz.. Black Prince and Vicomtesse Hhricart de Thury,
although one plant of Latest of All bore two or three fruit. Some of
the fruit were quite equal in flavour and size to those of the summer.
To-day (October 25th) I find there are about one and half dozen of good
sized fruits, but many have decayed during the wet weather. — G. WALLIS,
The Gardens, Brockley Hall, Brochley.

400

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Noyember 2, 1893.

Events of the Week. — During the ensuing week many Chrys¬
anthemum Shows will he held, but as a list of those which have been
advertised in our columns is given on page 402 further reference is
unnecessary. Attention may be called to Messrs. Harrison & Sons’
vegetable and root show, which will be held at Leicester on November
8th and 9th. Particulars of this will be found in the advertisement
pages.

- The Weather in London. — A change in the weather has

taken place since publishing our last issue. For the first time this
season frost was apparent on Monday night, 1° having been registered
in Hyde Park. A frost also occurred on Tuesday night, destroying
Dahlias in many gardens. The barometer has risen, and at the time of
going to press the weather remains cold.

- Weather in the North. — A great deal of rain has fallen

during the month in this district, the really fine days were few. We
have now every appearance of an early winter. Snow appeared on the
higher hills as early as the 23rd September, and they have since been
white to their bases more than once. They are again covered, and frosts
of 8° and 9° have been recorded on the last two mornings. Trees have
generally lost their foliage, and flowers are virtually over. — B. D.,
/S'. Perthshire.

- Chrysanthemums and Gardeners’ Orphans. — By kind

permission of Mr. and Mrs. Hopwood the gardens and hothouses at
Ketton Hall Gardens, near Stamford, will be opened to the public on
Thursdays, November 9th and 16th, from 2 to 5 p.m. in aid of the
Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. The fine collection of Chrysanthemums
is now in flower, and contains over 1000 large blooms in various stages.
Admission 6d. each. Gardener, Mr. W. H. Divers.

- Metropolitan Public Gardens Association. — We learn

that the Prince of Wales has been pleased to signify to the Earl of
Meath that it will afford him much pleasure to accord his patronage to
the Metropolitan Public Gardens Association, and at the same time to
send a contribution of 10 guineas to its funds.

- Corrected Nomenclature. — Aglacnema not

A. “ rotundum,” is the name of the plant that was figured on page 379
last week, the wrong name having been inadvertently given to the
plant when first exhibited. Through a mis-transcription the name of
Cirrhopetalum (the proper name) was printed C. “ama-

tissimum ” on page 378.

- Magnum Bonum Potato. — Mr. A. Harding, Orton Hall

Gardens, Peterborough, writes ; — “ On October 26th I lifted one of the
best crops of Magnum Potatoes I ever saw. The Potatoes were planted
the beginning of June, after Ashleafs and Hebrons were earthed up.
The tubers are clean, large and fine shaped ; being planted late they
made no second growth like those planted earlier — a peculiarity of
season, I suppose.”

- A New Thames Embankment. — It is reported that a new

Thames Embankment is to be formed at Battersea. It is decided now
to claim the foreshore by the side of the Thames near Old Battersea
Church, and by building a concrete embankment enclose an open space
of 2800 square yards. This space when railed in and planted with
shrubs and trees will make an open and delightful promenade with a
river frontage. The cost is estimated to be £2400, towards which the
Metropolitan Public Gardens Association will contribute £1000.

- Wakefield Paxton Society. — At a meeting of this Society

last week, Mr. J, Haigh, of Sheffield, read a very interesting paper on
“ Plants in Dwelling Houses.” Nothing, he said, could be more
beautiful than floral or foliage embellishments in a house ; pictures,
statuary, or other ornaments were inanimate, and could not compare
with them in effectiveness. It was difficult to choose suitable plants
for the varied conditions of heat and cold, light and darkness, dampness
and dryness of different rooms in a house, but with care and observa¬
tion the many difficulties in keeping plants in a state of health and
beauty could be overcome.

- Gardening Appointment. — Mr. Maurice Jones, late gar¬
dener to Miss C. Denton, Flemingate House, Beverley, East Yorks, has
been appointed gardener to C. C. Arkcoll, Esq., Lime Park, Hurst-
monceux, Sussex.

- Dahlia Brilliant. — At the meeting of the Floral Committee

of the National Chrysanthemum Society held on the 25th ult., a first-
class certificate was awarded to Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons for Dahlia
Brilliant, a rich deep crimson flower of the true Cactus type.

- Preston and Fulwood Horticultural Society, —

Mr, Charles Parker, 11, Cannon Street, Preston, has been appointed
Secretary of the above Society in place of Mr, John Atherton, who
resigned. The spring show of the Society is fixed for March 14th and
15th, 1894.

- The Devon and Exeter Gardeners’ Mutual Improve¬
ment Association.' — At the meeting of the above Association, held
on the 25th ult., in the Guildhall, Exeter, Mr. Andrew Hope, of
Messrs. R. Veitch & Son, read an able and interesting paper on “ Plant
Names and Their Association.” The chair was occupied by Mr. G. B.
Langsdale, and there was a large attendance of members.

- Mr. C. Orchard, we learn, has given up the management of

the Bembridge Hotel, I.W,, and taken over the Gardens on the reclaimed
land from the Brading Harbour Co., with a view of developing a florist’s
business, as well as supplying the hotels belonging to the Company with
cut flowers, vegetables, and other produce. Mr. Orchard’s present
address is 2, Harbour Mount, Bembridge, Isle of Wight.

- Gustavia pterocarpa. — In a recent issue of the “ Garden

and Forest,” Mr. G. Nicholson remarks that this plant has been flower¬
ing in the Palm house at Kew ; all the species of the genus are hand¬
some plants, well worth growing. The present species has large flowers
— about 4 inches or more across — somewhat like those of a Magnolia in
shape ; the petals are white inside and rose-tinted externally. The
inflorescence consists of about ten flowers ; the stalked, leathery leaves
measure from 12 to 20 inches in length and from 4 to 6 inches in width.

- Large Vegetables. — We learn from a Cumberland con¬
temporary that there was a unique collection of fine vegetables filling
the front windows of Messrs. Little & Ballantyne’s establishment on
Saturday last. The specimens were all sent to the firm from growers
in the neighbourhood of Carlisle. There were white Cabbages 20 lbs.
weight. Red Cabbages 16 or 17 lbs. ; Brussels Sprouts nearly 3 feet
high, “ buttoned ” to the very top ; pink and white Celery, which had
displaced a depth of 2| feet of soil ; Leeks, of the Musselburgh variety,
8 or 9 inches in circumference ; large round Onions from 1 lb, to 1^ lb.
in weight ; Marrows of extraordinary dimensions, and a Gourd
weighing 30 lbs.

- Pot Marigolds. — These plants are the hardiest of annuals

and give a fine show of flowers during the summer. If sown,
however, in May a display of bloom is seen all the autumn,
and that is very important. Amongst the very latest to flower
outdoors is Orange King, one of the most effective of all, because
the rich hue is particularly striking at this dull season. The
old form of pot Marigold, a poor and uncertain flower, is quite elbowed
out by such beautiful varieties as those named ; Prince of Orange
partially flaked with white ; Meteor, the petals striped white and yellow.
Some varieties are self, lemon, or occasionally tinted with a dark
hue on the tops of the petals. All these are excellent in gardens, all are
beautiful, bloom freely, and endure longer than other hardy annuals. — A.

- Colouring Fruit. — Have you ever noticed what a fine

colour most of the fruit offered for sale in the street generally
possesses ? It is all a question of dyes, remarks a “ Society ” journal.
Ordinary Oranges are dyed a deep red, which enables them to be passed
off as fine Blood Oranges at an enhanced price, especially when they
have been made half as large again by boiling. Pine Apples are also
tinted to make them look more attractive, and hard, unripe Straw¬
berries are dyed so as to look a deep, luscious red. Melons are coloured
a deep orange, and essence of Melon is injected to increase their flavour
The latest development of the business of colouring fruit in France is in
connection with Pears, which are dyed blue for a third of their size and
red below, so that they present the national tricolour when peeled
They are said to be in great demand for dessert fruit on account of their
novelty, just as the green Carnations were over here with certain
persons.

November 2, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

401

- The Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. — What was most

fitly termed a grand concert was given at the Surbiton Assembly Rooms
on Wednesday evening of last week. The programme furnished by
Mr. W. Furze of Teddington, was a first-class one, the company large
and fashionable, and the entire programme, every item of which was
capitally rendered, gave the highest satisfaction. We learn that H.R.H.
the Duchess of Albany kindly sent a donation of 20s. to the Concert
Fund through Mr. A. Dean, the Secretary. Also through him Messrs.
J. Laing & Sons, the well-known Begonia growers of Forest Hill, sent a
very handsome bouquet for presentation to the Mayoress of Kingston,
in recognition of the Mayor and Mayoress’s patronage. The Committee
met on Saturday evening last to oalance accounts, everything being
conducted with great economy, Mr. Furze and Mr. Dean even finding
all refreshments for the artistes. The result is a balance of 21 guineas,
which will be duly forwarded to Mr. A. F. Barron.

- .iEchmea Mari^ Regina. — A writer in the “American

Florist ” thinks that this plant is the handsomest Bromeliad ever intro¬
duced. It is strong in habit, having large leaves 12 to 18 inches in
length, armed at the edges with sharp spines. The flower scape is erect
and covered about half its length with large boat-shaped bracts of a rich
magenta shaded with rose, which remains a long time in perfection ; the
upper portion is thickly covered with flowers, which are tipped dark
blue, changing with age to rose. It blooms during June and July. It
is one of the most gorgeous and striking plants in cultivation, and
never fails to attract attention.

- Caryopteris Mastacanthus. — Regarding this plant a writer

in the “ Garden and Forest ” says : “Although long since it was first
introduced into cultivation this is rarely found in gardens. It is a
smooth, branchy little shrub, having much the habit of a Ceanothus or
Callicarpa, to which latter family it is allied. C. Mastacanthus does not
appear to be truly hardy in some parts of America, although it has not
been fairly tested out of doors with a proper winter covering. But it
blossoms so late and so profusely, and is altogether so attractive, that it
is well worth the trouble to lift it in autumn and place it in a pit or cold
frame and to replant it again in the spring. There are dry, sunny,
sheltered spots even about Boston where it might possibly live and
thrive without removal in winter. The flowers, which are individually
small, are borne in close corymb or umbel-like clusters in the axils of
the opposite leaves and on all the branches. Blossoming begins in
September, and as the twigs continue to grow new flower buds are
produced with each new pair of leaves until further growth is checked
by cold weather and frosts. The blooms are of a rich violet or lavender-
blue colour, and have a slight aromatic fragrance. The foliage, green
above, is soft, downy and hoary white beneath, and when bruised it
gives out a very powerful, pungent, aromatic odour strongly suggestive
of some plants of the Mint family, although this plant is generally
classed in the Verbena family. It may be readily propagated by
cuttings.”

- Surrey Apples. — Talking the other day about Apples

and Pears at Cranleigh, I was greatly pleased to And a couple of
local growers (Mr. Knight, an old Chiswick man, and gardener to
Mr. Cassilla, Cranleigh ; and Mr. Donkin, who has embarked in fruit
culture in a small way for market) could bring and exhibit such
excellent samples of fruit, especially the former. His Apples were
gathered from young standard trees in an orchard, and were most clean
and handsome. His Quinces were some of the finest fruits I ever saw.
Blenheim Pippins large and richly coloured ; Hereford Queening, a fine
late variety ; King of the Pippins and Wyken Pippin, all perfect
samples. Mr. Knight stated that on the sand in that district Blenheim
trees began to fruit much earlier than is the case on stiff soils. The
exhibit showed what could be done with hardy fruit in that part of
the county of Surrey, and indeed it is a grand fruit-growing district,
with few exceptions unhappily devoid of fruit. When it is known that
for its area, its superb aspects, varied soils, and many suitable surround¬
ings Surrey is credited in the returns of the Board of Agriculture with
having only 3000 acres under market fruit culture, such evidence as
was afforded at Cranleigh of the capacity of the district to produce fine
hardy fruits should have good effect. Mr. Knight had exhibited his
samples at the local agricultural show there the previous day, and it is
hoped that all classes, especially landowners and farmers, took note of
them. It is so very obvious that what can be done by Mr. Casilla,
who has planted largely, could be done by many others, and it is hoped
that very soon the reproach to Surrey of being such a poor fruit-growing
county may be removed, — A, D.

- Birmingham amateur Gardeners’ Association. — Mr.

Arthur Roe read an interesting and instructive paper on “ Our Her¬
baceous Border” before the members of the Amateur Gardeners’
Association, at the Temperance Institute, last week. He contended
that herbaceous piants were rightly taking a foremost place among the
popular plants of the day. Beds of Pelargoniums, Lobelia, Asters, and
Stocks produced an admirable display of colour, but there was always
a certain sameness about such plants. A well-selected collection of
herbaceous plants could be grown easily in a town garden, and would
provide us with flowers from the early dawn of spring till the closing
days of autumn. Amateurs, he said, had overlooked the beauty and
variety of these plants in the past, and had neglected their cultiva¬
tion.

- Winter Radishes. — I have a vivid recollection of the ancient

black Spanish Radish, at one time commonly grown in gardens for
winter salading. It was sometimes round and oval and long, but always
had a nearly rough black coat, the flesh white, rather hard and exceed¬
ingly hot. We have better winter Ra Jishes now, and very mild pleasant
ones too in flavour, like the fleshy young fresh Turnip Radishes. I saw
a couple of these winter varieties in the seed farm at Reading the other
day, one a long white, large, but very soft pleasant flesh, exceedingly
agreeable, from Japan, and a pretty long tapering-rooted variety called
Chinese Rose. These Radishes if pulled just when at their best and
preserved as other tap roots are for the winter, then when used are
washed, peeled and sliced, are most valuable additions to mixed salads
during the winter. — A.

- The Great Yorkshire Gala, York. — The balance-sheet

for the current year has just been issued, and is a most satisfactory
statement, with a reserve fund of £2000, and other assets amounting to
£256. During this year £250 was given to the York charities, £614 12?.
in prizes and judges’ fees, £115 12s. for music, £340 for tents and other
fittings, and over £300 in other amusements incidental to the annual
Gala. The receipts at the gates on the three days amounted to £1850,
and from other sources to £524 10s. Whilst offering our congratulations
to the energetic Committee and Secretary, we venture to suggest that in
the coming year the claims of the Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent
Institution and the Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund may have favourable
consideration, for both urgently need help, and horticultural societies
may do so much — if they will — in helping both institutions.

- National Carnation and Picotee Society (Southern

Section). — The annual general meeting of the above Society was held
at the Hotel Windsor, in the rooms of the Horticultural Club, by kind
permission of the members, on Saturday, October 28 ih. Martin R. Smith,
Esq., President of che Society, presided over the meeting. The President,
Vice-Presidents, Committee, and oflSce bearer.s were re-elected. It was
decided to hold the Exhibition for 1894 under the auspices of the Royal
Horticultural Society on July 24th. The following alterations were
made in the schedule : — Two new classes were added of twelve blooms
and six blooms respectively, with a growth of the plant to each bloom,
and without dressing. It was also proposed and unanimously adopted
that the class for yellow ground Picotees be judged on the same
principle as the white ground varieties — that is, a pure yellow with a
margin the same as the white ground class ; fancies not to be admitted.
A distribution of seed has been made to the members, saved from choice
fertilised flowers, grown in the garden, of the best seedlings raised from
the seed so distributed on a previous occasion. The statement by the
Treasurer showed that the Society was very prosperous as regards
finance. The subscriptions, as per list, amounted to £154 9s. 6d. ;
amount for special prizes, £18 17s, 6d.; prize money distributed,
£99 15s. 6d, The balance from last year was £65 lOs. 5d., and the
balance in hand is £118 53. 4d. — J. DOUGLAS, Hon, See.

- The Annual Meeting of the Auricula and Primula

Society was held at the same time and place. Mr. Henry Cannell of
Swanley presided. The President, Vice-Presidents, Committee, and office
bearers were re-elected, the name of Mr. J. T. Bennett-Poe being
added to list of Vice-Presidents. The Exhibition for 1894 is to be held
under the auspices of the Royal Horticultural Society as usual, and it
was decided to offer the same prizes as last year. The subscriptions as
per list amounted to £63, prizes paid £60 16s., other expenses brought
the expenditure up to £74 Is. 6d., leaving a deficit on this and last year’s
working of £8 16s. 6d. due to the Treasurer. If all the members would
pay up their subscriptions, this amount would be materially reduced,
and with a very little effort on the part of the members the deficiency
might be made a handsome surplus.

402

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ NoTember 2, 1893.

- The Weather in West Yorkshire. — Round this district

(Bingley) the weather during October up to the 25th has been excep¬
tionally mild. Since then we have had cold north-west winds,
accompanied on the 26th and 28th by heavy showers of rain. This
morning, the 30th ult., we registered 7° of frost, which has put an end
to the Dahlias and other flowers. — T. H. Bolton.

- Amaryllis Belladonna. — Mr. Divers (page 375) is correct

in stating that the warm wall of a heated house has a beneficial effect
on the bulbs of this plant. I have had ample proof that they are
assisted by the extra heat to a very great extent. Some years since I
frequently visited a garden in which was a range of glass divided into
two houses — a stove and a greenhouse. Between the front wall and the
path outside was a narrow bed of Belladonna Lilies the whole length
of the range. When the plants were growing the difference in their
appearance was remarkable, and even more so when in flower. Those
near the wall of the stove grew taller, and produced a much larger
number of finer scapes than did the remaining portion of the bed by the
cooler wall of the greenhouse, this being the case year after year. Had
the bulbs been lifted no doubt as great a difference in their sizes would
have been apparent. — T. S., Bristol.

- Earwigs. — During the summer and autumn the earwig

was particularly abundant — i.e., the familiar Forficula auriculare,
the smaller dermopterous species of the genus Lebia, did not appear
to be more numerous than usual. It would be of interest if gardeners
who had observed any facts concerning this insect in the past season
would kindly report them. For instance, it would be very desirable
to know what plants or shrubs it chiefly infested. Here, in Graves¬
end, I have been told the species was caught repeatedly in the act
of biting the young shoots of Chrysanthemums. Also it is important
to have further evidence as to its flying, and whether it uses the
forceps at the tail to inflict a pinch should it be assailed. There is
some doubt amongst entomologists as to its habits, and its early
history is still very obscure. I imagine the eggs are laid in or on
the ground during the autumn, and the young brood lead a subterranean
life, or almost so. Many of the mature earwigs seem to survive till
the next spring, however, hiding in nooks and under bark. — J. E. S.
Clifford.

Chrysanthemum Shows.

We have received numerous intimations of Chrysanthemum shows
which are to be held during the current month, but space can only be
found for the enumeration of those that have been advertised in our
columns up to date, of which the following is a list : —

Nov. 3rd and 4th. — Crystal Palace.

„ 7th and 8th. — National Chrysanthemum Society (Royal Aquarium),
Kingston, Liverpool, Leeds Paxton, Brighton, Watford.

„ 8th and 9th. — Northampton, Bournemouth,

„ 9th. — Birkenhead and Wirra),^

,, 10th and 11th. — Bradford,

,, 14th and 15th. — Twickenham, West of England (Plymouth).

,, 15th and 16th. — Birmingham, Hull, Bristol, South Shields, Rugby,

,, 15th, 16th, and 17th. — Herefordshire.

„ 16th, 17th, and 18tb, — Edinburgh, York.

„ 17th and 18th. — Bolton.

„ 24th and 25th. — Eccles and Patricroft.

Shouting of the Showmen.

If the National Chrysanthemum Show must be held at the Aquarium
could not a two-shilling door be arranged for the admission of ladies
and others before pipes are lighted and the shouting of the showmen
begin ? — Small Garden Owner.

Chrysanthemums at Calderstone— A Correction.

In my report on Chrysanthemums at Calderstone in last week’s
issue (page 382), I stated that Lucy Kendall was a good yellow sport
from Mrs. Heale, but that Mr. Tunnington feared confusion with it and
Miss Haggas. For Lucy Kendall it should read Richard Parker. —
R. P. R.

Out of Date Chrysanthemums.

It has often’ occurred to many that it would be a good plan to
publish a list of the Japanese varieties which are superseded. As a
trade grower I am frequently asked to send the “very best, regardless

f cost,” and only this spring such varieties as the following were asked

for, all of which, as exhibition flowers, I have discarded from my
collection : — Madame C. Audiguier, Peter the Great, Meg Merrilies, and
others. Of those of more recent introduction I have discarded as being
superseded are Mr. Beckett, Mrs. Beckett, Sarah Owen, Jeanne Delaux,
Mons. Freeman, W. W. Cole, Coronet, Pelican, Louis Boehmer, Alberic-
Lunden, Mr. H. Cannell, and Mrs. C. W. Clark. — Progress.

The White Viviand Morel.

Would some correspondent of the Journal of Hoi-ticulture WndlY
inform me if Viviand Morel, the true variety, and Viviand Morel on an
early bud, coming pure white, and named Mr. W. Wells, would be dis¬
qualified under the rules of the National Chrysanthemum Society if they
were both shown in one stand of twelve distinct Japanese varieties ? As
a beginner, I fail to see how a judge could disqualify them if one was a
true pink, the other a pure white, although I do not think the latter has
been certificated. — A Young Beginner.

National Chrysanthemum Society.

A MEETING of the General Committee of this Society was held on
Monday last at Anderton’s Hotel, Fleet Street, when Mr. R. Ballantyne
occupied the chair. Most of the business was of a purely formal or
routine nature consequent upon the approaching exhibition. The Secre¬
tary stated that prize money amounting to £37 10s. had been awarded
at the Society’s Show last month independent of the cost of medals and
special prizes, £6 11?. for vegetables, which amount was given by Messrs.
Sutton & Sons of Reading. The Committee then confirmed the award
of medals made by the Arbitration Committee at the October Show. The
financial statement up to date being submitted showed that the sum of
£235 11s. 4d. had already been received by the Secretary, of which
amount £113 193. 6d. was for subscriptions and £36 143. 6d. for fees-
from affiliated So?ieties. The annual dinner, at which the President,
Sir Edwin Saunders, is expected to preside, will take place at Anderton’s
Hotel on Thursday the 30th November. The Sub-Committee for the,
1894 schedule was then appointed, its members consisting of Messrs.
G. S. Addison, Boyce, Davey, G. Gordon, G. Stevens, Bevan, Crane,
C. Gibson, H. J. Jones, B. Wynne, and W. H. Fowler, with the officeroi
as ex-officio members. New members numbering altogether twenty-eight
were elected, and the Beckenham Horticultural Society admitted in
affiliation.

Mr. D. B. Crane called attention to the inconvenience experienced
after the last Floral Committee meeting, when exhibits were cleared
away almost immediately after the sitting was over, giving members no
opportunity of seeing the awards made. It was explained that this
was a contravention of the rules on the part of exhibitors, and that
in future the exhibits would remain on view until 4 p.m, as usual.

A vote of thanks to the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at
an early hour.

New Chrysanthemums.

At the meeting of the Floral Committee, held at the Royal
Aquarium on the 25th ult., there was an excellent display of novelties,
the principal of which were Mr. Charles Cox, a crimson sport from
M. Bernard, which the Committee desired to see again ; Duchess of
Devonshire, a Japanese medium-sized flat flower of deep rosy colour
with golden reverse ; Belle Jaune, a very attractive deep yellow
Japanese, which was commended ; Richard Dean, a large crimson
Japanese with golden reverse ; W. H. Fowler, a finely formed Japanese
with deep spreading florets, colour bright yellow ; Miss M. Simpkins, a
large globular incurving Japanese with sharp-pointed florets, colour
creamy white. In Anemones, Ada Strickland, a self-coloured bloom of
deep cinnamon yellow, was effective, but the disk was not fully up.
Madame M, Ricaud, a deep rosy blush-coloured Japanese with golden
centre, was commended. G. \V, Childs, a Japanese of rich velvety
bright crimson, was staged in good condition, as also was Snow, a large
white Japanese with long petals which the Committee wished to see
again.

First-class cettiflSales were granted to —

Thas. WilUins (Mr. R. Owen). — A bright chrome yellow Japanese ;
petals flat and spreading.

Mrs. P. Blair (Mr. R. Owen).— A large bloom of the incurved
Japanese type, pale purple with silvery reverse.

Violetta (Mr. E. Beckett).— A deeply built flower, colour soft rosy-
violet ; an excellent Japanese seedling, raised in England.

Mdlle. Nathalie Brun (Mr. Rowbottom).— A large Anemone variety,,
centre pale yellow and high up, ray florets white and quilly.

Tribune (Mr. H. J. Jones). — A first-class Japanese of pale yellow
lemon, rather deeper towards the centre ; a bold, globular bloom This
variety is figured on page 403.

Yellow Lady Selborne (Messrs. Rochford & Son).— A yellow sporfc
from a well-known useful old favourite.

Madame Cambon (Mr. C. Gibson). — An unusually massive incurved
Japanese ; colour pale straw, petals long, curly, and intermingling.

How TO Prevent Damping in Chrysanthemum Flowers.

Few things are more calculated to suppress the enthusiasm which
Chrysanthemum growers usually exhibit at the present time of tbe
year than to notice their finest and choicest blooms being gradually
ruined through damp before their beauty has fully developed. Y’'et this,
alas I is the annual experience of many throughout the country. Even
this year, though the weather has apparently been favourable for

November 2, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

403

ensuring rapid and perfect development of the flowers, we hear many
complaints of heavy losses through damp. Few growers perhaps alto¬
gether escape its damaging effect upon some of their flowers, but
wholesale damping, such as we sometimes hear of, may, in my opinion,
be prevented if sound judgment as well as assiduous attention are
bestowed upon the management of both the plants and the houses in

interests of all to be thoroughly thrashedi out, seeing ^how many grand
blooms are each year lost through the inroads of this dread enemy

Observation has taught me that there are three distinct kinds of
damping ; the most common form is for the lower florets of the flowers
to become discoloured at the points, and if not removed promptly to
decay the entire length, and probably convey the germs of decay to the

Fig. 59.— chrysanthemum THE TRIBUNE. (^See page 406.)

which they are arranged. Although I have no wish to pose as an egotist
I feel some satisfaction in the fact that during the ten years in which I
have grown Chrysanthemums on the “large bloom” principle very few
losses have been experienced through damping. If the causes and
prevention of it, which I am about to advance, do not agree with the
teachings of the giants in Chrysanthemum culture, they will be doing
both me and many other readers of the Journal good service by setting
us right in the matter, for I consider it a subject which lought in [the

centre of the flower. This is frequently brought about by great
fluctuations in the condition and the soil in regard to moisture. Plants
which do not retain their foliage well till the opening of^ the flowers is
well advanced are invariably extremely sluggish in their root action ;
under such circumstances, if water is given before the soil is dry enough
to admit of the pots ringing sharply when rapped, daniping inevitably
follows sooner or later. It may be noticed the following day if damp
or foggy weather prevails. Sometimes strong healthy plants carrying

404

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 2, 1893.

the finest buds are incautiously given an overdose of stimulants, which
causes many of the surface roots to be destroyed, and a corresponding
loss of foliage. The florets then for a time expand so slowly that with
the best of attention it is seldom possible for the flower to become fully
developed before the lower petals begin to decay through age, conse¬
quent upon impeded root action having prevented the flower from
opening in its usual time. In such instances it is a good plan to remove
as much of the centre of the flower as is thought will not expand while
the lower petals keep fresh ; although this kind of damping is usually
caused through over-watering, combined with a damp and stagnant
atmosphere, it is sometimes brought about by the opposite extreme.
Knowing the evils which arise from over-watering, some cultivators
nervously avoid the medium course, and allow the plants to become too
dry at the roots, especially during bright weather. When in this
condition, if the flowers are examined before water is given, the florets
will be found to have temporarily lost their crispness, and feel soft and
flabby to the touch. The application of water renders the stem crisp
and firm again, but the following day a slight discolouration of the
lower fiorets may be noticed, the whites and yellows frequently become
tinted with pale pink, which most of us know is a sure indication that
their freshness is on the wane.

Perhaps the most destructive form of damping is that which shows
itself in spots or blotches over the whole or only certain parts of a
flower. Almost every flower in a house is sometimes more or less
affected in this way. This wholesale damping, which is indeed calami¬
tous, may, I believe, be almost entirely prevented if no mistakes are
made in the management of ventilation and artificial heat, and a little
shade is judiciously given. The condensation of moisture upon the
flowers is the cause of this damping. If the moisture is allowed to
remain upon them for any length of time they become much discoloured.
On the other hand, should evaporation take place very quickly many of
the flore s shrivel as if they had been scalded, and indeed the disaster is
brought about in much the same way as that which induces scalding
in Grapes. Oar remedy, therefore, is to prevent the condensation of
moisture upon the flowers. This may undoubtedly be accomplished by
keeping a little heat in the hot-water pipes whenever the weather is
dull or damp, and at all times leaving the top ventilators slightly open
wherever they are so arranged as to prevent rain entering the house.
So long as the heat remains in the pipes I have never found any harm¬
ful effects from leaving air on at all times, and it proves as if even the
safety valve through which superfluous moisture is dispelled. If on
entering the house early in the morning moisture is seen hanging in
drops upon the glass and sashbars, it may be taken for granted that
the heat has not been kept regular. Should the hot-water pipes be
found quite cold the first thing in the morning it is a mistake to push
the fire on sharply and get them very hot. This should be done
gradually, otherwise a great amount of drip will take place.

Those who have houses with iron sashbars will find the greatest
difficulty in preventing the condensation of moisture on the roof, and
consequent drip, but with continual ventilation and steady heat it may
in all instances be reduced to a minimum if the more air is admitted in
the morning before the temperature begins to rise. This is important,
as I find many are inclined to delay the admission of more air till
too late. Whenever the day promises to be bright it is advisable
to have the pipes cool by the time the sun strikes the house, otherwise
the rapid evaporation caused by the action of sun, air, and fire heat
combined will assuredly cause the florets to scald, and although shading
plays an important part in preventing this it will not do so entirely.
There is one other form of damping which is happily not very frequent.
Sometimes a flower may open in a satisfactory way up to a certain stage,
when it ceases to make further progress, but to all appearance is quite
sound ; closer inspection will, however, reveal the fact the centre at the
base of each floret is quite decayed, and the flower useless. Drip falling
into the centre of the flower would, I have no doubt, produce a similar
effect, but I think it is seldom caused in that way, because I have never
noticed this happen in the case of a plant which was quite healthy and
vigorous up to the time of the occurrence. Its advent is usually marked
by the soil not drying so quickly as formerly. This I think is cause!
by overfeeding to the extent of bringing about a complete breakdown in
the constitution of the plant, or by persistent over- watering, which in
time kills many of the young roots.

At all times the plants should be arranged as thinly as the space at
command will allow. Packing them closely together, so that after
watering the soil is so long in getting dry again renders the work of
preventing (lamping all the more difficult. I am firmly convinced that
if many cultivators would grow fewer plants, and thus avoid crowding
when the time arrives for housing, they would produce a proportionately
greater number of really good flowers. — D. H.

Chrysanthemum Prospects around Bolton.

Once again has the season come round to record the prospects of the
Chrysanthemums, and from a visit that has been made to the many
excellent collections grown in the neighbourhood of Bolton, it is gratify¬
ing to note that there is no abatement in the enthusiasm in the cultiva¬
tion of the “ Autumn Queen.” The plants are the finest ever grown in
the locality, showing that whatever may have been the effect of the
excessively hot summer in other parts, it has been conducive to the
well-being of Chrysanthemums in this rather uncongenial climate.

It is not my intention to enumerate what I found in each collection
separately, further than saying on all sides, both where they are
grown for home decoration as well as where cultivated for exhibition,

very fine displays are anticipated. Foremost amongst the Japanese are
Viviand Morel, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, W. H. Lincoln, Mrs. F. Jameson,
W. Tricker, Florence Davis, Stanstead White, W. W. Coles, Puritan,
Gloire du Rocher, Edward Molyneux, Avalanche, and J. Stanborough
Dibben. Of the new kinds the most promising are William Seward,
John Shrimpton, Lord Brooke, Col. W. B. Smith, G. W. Childs, and Mrs.

E. D. Adams.

Amongst the incurved those of the Queen family are remarkably
fine, so also are the Princess of Wales and all its sports. The same
applies to John Salter, Lord Wolseley, and Jeanne d’Arc. Of the new
kinds Mrs. Robinson King, Madame Barrier, Mrs. Clibran, Ami Hoste
are the most promising, and Mons. R. Bahuant is grand.

In many cases I fear the bloom will be too early for our forthcoming
Show, November 17th and 18th, for which a very comprehensive sehedule
has been prepared and liberal prizes are offered. The great event to
Bolton people is the President’s (R. K. Cross, Esq.) prize, a handsome
silver cup for twelve incurved and twelve Japanese eut blooms. This
class is confined to growers residing within eight miles of Bolton. The
leading class in the open section is for twelve incurved and twelve
Japanese cut blooms, and the prizes are £5, £3, £2. For a similar class
of twenty-four cut blooms, miscellaneous, the prizes are £3, £2, £1. We
hope the Show this year will be the best we have ever had, for in
addition to our ordinary prizes we are giving two medals of the Rojal
Horticultural Society, and every endeavour is being made to make it a
success by the Committee and its Secretary, Mr. Hicks, Markland Hill,
Bolton.— Visitor.

Chrysanthemums in the South.

Now that the exhibition season is close at hand a few notes on the
prospects of the leading growers and exhibitors from any neighbourhood
are interesting, and being lately in the Portsmouth district I had a
glance over a few collections of plants.

Rooksbury Park.

This, the seat of J. Carpenter Gamier, Esq., produced the winning
blooms at the exhibition held at Portsmouth last year. Mr. N. Molyneux
has some promising plants, not too robust in growth, but with wood fully
matured and likely to give blooms of high quality, it not of exceptional
size. The Japanese varieties are more advanced than their compeers —
the incurved — and include all the novelties of last year as well as some
promising kinds for this season. Such varieties as G. Savage, Princess
May, L’Ami Etienne, G. C. Schwabe, Mrs. C. H, Payne, W. K. Wood¬
cock, Princess Victoria, John Shrimpton, W. Seward, President Borel,
Le Verseau, Lord Brooke, Le Prince du Bois and Charles Davis are
worthily represented. The incurved section are later. All the time
available will be needed to develop the blooms fully by the early shows.
The second week in November should see here a fine display.

Leigh Park.

This, the country residence of Sir F. Fitzwygram, is a few miles
from Portsmouth and close to Havant, another centre of Chrysanthemum
interest. Mr. Penford has for some years past been a leading exhibitor
at the shows in the district, as well as at Brighton and Southampton.
He has excellent plants this year — in number about 500. The Japanese
section promised to afford some grand blooms. Florence Davis was
remarkably fine ; the same remark applies to Edwin Molyneux which
was especially rich in colour. Excelsior, Anna Hartshorn, Marquise
de Paris, Mrs. C. H. Payne of huge size, Stanstead White, Beauty of
Castle Hill, W. Seward, and Sunflower. The leading kinds in the
incurved section were naturally later but most promising in appearance.
Nowhere in the south have I seen the Anemone sections better shown
than from here. This year bids fair to be no exception to the rule from
the present appearance of the plants.

Havant.

Mr. Agate’s Chrysanthemum nursery is well known, not only for the
quality of the blooms produced, but for the number of new sorts yearly
on trial. Prominent amongst these carrying good blooms were Charles
Davis, the new sport from that now universal favourite Viviand Morel,
Madame Octavie Mirbeau, Duke of York, Golden Wedding, Miss Watson,
Lord Brooke, G. Savage, The Tribune, W. H. Atkinson, G. W. Childs,
Robert Owen, Mrs. Hu bbuck, and Beauty of Exmouth. The incurved
section were later, but promised well. Several new sorts are on trial,
of which more may be heard later.

Stanstead Park.

Mr. Hoskins, the gardener here, although not an exhibitor, grows
not less than 700 plants, producing blooms of show quality. The Queen
family are very late, many of them being run on to terminal buds.
Prince Alfred, Jeanne d’Arc, Nil Desperandum, Refulgens, and Novelty
are very good. Bouquet des Dames is here a great favourite in the
Japanese section, and so are Avalanche, Sunflower, Viviand Morel,
and Edwin Molyneux. It seems a pity that with such fine plants Mr.
Hoskins does not exhibit the produce at some of the neighbouring
shows.

SwANMORE Park.

Although not at the present time an exhibitor, Mr. Molyneux culti¬
vates quite as many plants as when he tried to win prizes. The
majority of the new sorts are grown with a view of testing their
capabilities. Owing to structural alterations the plants are later than
usual, but judging from the moderately strong yet firm wood and stout

November 2, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

405

leaves good blooms may be expected later on. Amongst the newer
varieties the following were promising, beside a number of seedlings
under trial — C. Davis, C. Blick, W. Seward, Princess May, Comte de
Paris, G. W. Childs, Excelsior, L’Enfant des Deux Mondes, Mrs. C. H.
Payne, Le Verseau, Madame Octavie Mirbeau, Mrs. W. H. Fowler, and
Potter Palmer. All the old and tried favourites are here grown, as
well as the best of the incurved varieties. Several plants of all sections
are grown without any disbudding or thinning of the shoots after
being once topped when a few inches high. This is for testing their
floriferousness, and an interesting display may be expected from these
plants. — Visitor,

CORNSTILES.

This is the residence of W. F. Flight, Esq., who is well known as a
patron of the Chrysanthemum. His gardener, Mr. Neville, has a collec¬
tion of dwarf well ripened plants that should produce fine exhibition
blooms. Most noticeable amongst the incurved are the Princess family,
which are well timed. The Japanese varieties are grand, comprising
many new novelties. I noticed that J. Shrimpton and Beauts de
Toulousaine were specially good. Mr. Neville, I think, will take some
beating this year.

Messrs, W. & G. Drover, Fareham.

The blooms staged at the Centenary Exhibition by these growers
brought their name to the front. They are now growing about 400
plants for producing exhibition blooms. These are arranged in two long
lean-to houses, one for Japanese, one for incurved varieties. The plants
are taller this season, but are fine in stems, and the foliage is stout and
green. The wood is also well ripened. I noticed Baron Hirsch, Brockley
Gem, and the Queen family are showing good colour and depth. The
varieties of the Princess family will not be up to their usual form this
year. The Japanese are most promising, especially W. Seward, Colonel
W. B. Smith, Lord Brooke, G. C. Schwabe, Golden Wedding, Charles
Davis, Mrs. C. H, Payne, Mrs, Alpheus Hardy, and a few good promising
seedlings.

The Victoria Park, Portsmouth.

The plants grown by Mr. Hatch for exhibition blooms number about
250, and about 150 plants are cultivated for groups. These are showing
well. Pompons and singles are also well grown. Mr. Hatch has taken
many prizes for cut blooms, also for groups. — A Gardener.

Chrysanthemums in the Isle of Wight — New Varieties.

In spite of the extra amount of heat and sunshine during the past
summer. Chrysanthemums in the south are a little late on the w'hole.
Nevertheless, by the time the exhibitions come on I shall indeed be
surprised if the season does not prove to be one of the best of the past
decade as regards the improvement in the varieties of the Japanese
section. New life has been instilled into the cultivation of the flower
by the interest taken in the hybridising and raising of English seedlings,
the character of which can be fairly well proven the first season.

There is no doubt but that the fine hit made by Mr. J. Shrimpton,
gardener to W. Seward, Esq., by the raising of the brilliant varieties
named after the raisers and introduced last season will be in evidence
this year at most of the exhibitions, and there are others to follow
that will leave their mark. How the name of Shrimpton revives old
memories of the past, in the minds of some of the old Stoke Newington
school, and others of more recent date, when the Kingston and Wimble¬
don gardeners used to flock in scores across Wimbledon Common to visit
our old friend of that name that lived at Roehampton, and grew
such flowers as no one else could at that time, twenty to twenty-five
years ago 1 The sight of his flowers gave the fever to many young
gardeners that have since made their mark in the Chrysanthemum
world, and by the zeal displayed in the neighbourhood resulted in the
establishment of the Kingston and other neighbouring Chrysanthemum
Societies. In the history of the Chrysanthemum I am glad to lay my
tribute to our late friend, and many of my Kingston and Wimbledon
associates can, I am sure, bear testimony to the wonderful influence
“ Shrimpton’s ” Chrysanthemums had on the gardeners and others at
that time. This season will prove that history repeats itself, although
the bearer of the honoured name, the raiser of the new varieties under
notice, told the writer of this personally last season he could not claim
any relationship to oui old friend of Roehampton.

The above thoughts suggested themselves on a visit to the unique
gardens at Yarborough House, Bradiug, the residence of J. Darley, Esq ,
whose gardener, Mr. George Burt, has " taken on” wonderfully, and grows
the Chrysanthemums, as he does anything else he takes in hand, with
very great success. Favoured by a delightful sheltered situation, and a
maximum amount of sunlight, the colours are highly developed, the
collection consisting of nearly all new varieties. Last season Mr. Burt
crossed a late bloom of Mrs. E. Beckett with J. Stanborough Dibben,
and have now about thirty plants showing colour in different stages and
of different cbaricters, one of which, not yet named, is a beautiful
distinct reflexed Japanese about 2 feet G inches high, carrying three
fine flowers about 6 inches across, of a deep primrose, with shades of
bronze and red in the centre of the flower ; a variety of great promise.
The following are some of the best, all of which are good, produced on
plants carrying clean fully developed flowers fit for any exhibition.
The high coloured varieties are very telling. Wrn. Seward, deep
crimson, with long florets, is prominent on the three or four plants ; all
are fine, one carrying eleven flowers of good substance ; like all dark
coloured varieties, they require to be shaded from the hot sun to prevent

burning. J. Shrimpton is a grand crimson with a golden turnover on
the tips of the reflexed florets ; both these varieties show unmistakeably
the blood of Cullingfordi in the wood and foliage. C. Shrimpton is another
high coloured variety, but the flowers are not so promising as the pre¬
ceding, having come single on the terminals. Alice Seward is a very
pretty variety with incurved florets, purple rose splashed with white,
with a silvery turnover, reminding one of Don Quixote, but very much
better. Charles Davis, the bronze yellow Viviand Morel, is represented
by three plants, each carrying finely developed blooms of a beautiful tint,
reminding one of Criterion, but much larger. L’isere is a splendid
variety with large spreading stout florets, white, with a cream shade,
turning up at the points like Stanstead White or Mdlle. B. Pigny, of
which it is a much improved variety, both in the flower and the habit of
the plant. I predict a good run on this variety.

Louise is a very fine incurved Japanese of extraordinary substance,
like a huge Queen of England, a soft peach colour. Lord Brooke is a
grand acquisition in colour ; the flower here is of great substance, and
the plant very showy. White Louis Boehmer, a small plant carrying
three fine blooms, pure white, and very hairy ; better than Mrs. Alpheus
Hardy. Madame Appin, light rose, reminding one of a pale Viviand Morel ;
a fine exhibition flower. Col. W. B. Smith on all plants is very good, one
plant carrying fourteen blooms ; this is a great acquisition. Mrs. A. G.
Ilubbuck, deep purple amaranth, very full flower with drooping florets.
Excelsior, showing a good colour, deep rose, with silvery turnover.
Waban, large, not yet fully developed. Chas. Blick, deep yellow, is very
good. Elma de Smith, deep chestnut red, is very promising. Miss
Dorothy Shea, large flower, with drooping florets of a dull brick red,
reminds one of Margaret Marrouch, but as coming here, not quite so
full ; when good it would cover the board. Princess May has long droop¬
ing white narrow florets, and Le Prince du Bois is a very pretty flower,
soft yellow drooping florets like Sunflower. Mrs. C. Harman Payne,
rose, is a very strong variety carrying twelve fine blooms. Others very
good are John Farwell, deep crimson red ; L’Ami Etienne, full round
incurved Japanese, colour of Madame C. Audiguier, but broader florets ;
and President Borel, deep rose, drooping florets. Queen of the Hirsutes
is chestnut red, and F. Vv'. Flight is rather late, but coming good.

Some older varieties, such as Mdlle. Marie Hoste, M. E. Carriere,
Louis Boehmer, Edwin Molyneux, and Felix Cassagneau are grown, but
Mr. Burt is very severe in his selection, a collection of which any man
might w'ell be proud. — C. Orchard, Bemiridge,

Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea.

The nursery of Messrs. Jas. Veitch k Sons at Chelsea is, as everyone
connected with horticulture well knows, always worth a visit, and now,
when the Chrysanthemums are in bloom, perhaps more so than ever.
The house in which the plants are shown is a large span-roofed one, the
same as was utilised last season ; the arrangement being also similar,
a central bank, with narrow borders on each side. Most, if not the
whole, of last season’s novelties are to be seen, every endeavour having
been made to keep the collection well abreast of the times. It is the
general opinion of those who have seen the flowers that they surpass those
of last season. This will doubtless be considered high praise by those
who saw the magnificent examples last year, and who have not yet
paid a visit this season; but, nevertheless, it is well merited, as all
must acknowledge when they see the flowers. The plants are models of
good management, and much credit is due both to the firm and the able
grower, Mr. Weeks. The Japanese varieties are in full bloom, the
incurved being a few days later. Careful attention has been devoted in
placing the plants so that the colours would blend harmoniously, and the
effect from the door of the structure is consequently striking, which
attracts the attention of those who are passing down the walk through
the nursery.

Immediately on entering the house a flower of Colonel W. B.
Smith is prominent, measuring, with the florets hanging down, 22 inches
in circumference. Not so large but equally as striking are blooms of
Miss Anna Hartshorn and the dark coloured Wm. Seward, one of the
latest introductions, and decidedly an acquisition amongst the very deep
crimson varieties. Bouquet des Dames is seen in superb form, the
blooms being exceptionally deep and handsome. Edwin Molyneux
here, as at many other places this season, is good, as also is Baron
Hirsch, a bronzy yellow incurved. There are several plants of Viviand
Morel, almost all of which are carrying large shapely flowers. Mons.
R. Bahuant is admirably represented, the same remark being applicable
to Mrs. C. E. Shea and L’Automne. Amongst the hairy petalled varie¬
ties Louise Boehmer and W. A. Manda are carrying by far the best
blooms, this being more especially the case with the former. The now
popular Beauty ot Exmouth is to be seen in grand shape and fine sub¬
stance, and is certainly one of the best whites extant.

A superb deep rosy pink is found in Mrs. C. Harman Payne,
additional beauty being given to the plant by the white-tipped florets.
One of the newest introductions is J. Shrimpton, Japanese, which,
besides having fine deep velvety crimson petals, is of a dwarf habit,
which will doubtless be a great recommendation to some growers. An
ivory white variety of a high order of merit is Mdlle. Thdi^se Rey, the
blooms of which are of almost perfect shape. G. C. Schwabe carries
highly creditable flowers of a pleasing rosy carmine colour. Miss
Dorothy Shea will not readily be superseded amongst the charming terra
cotta shades, as the substance is all that could be wished, and the shape
practically faultless. Chas. Davis is a fine bronze yellow variety of
the true Viviand Morel type. The blooms of the grand yellow W. H.

406

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 2, 1893.

Lincoln are magnificent, as also are those of Florence Davis and Mons.
W. Holmes. Amongst the many varieties which promise to be of
exceptional merit are J. Stanborough Dibben, the superb Lord Brooke,
Mdlle. Marie Hoste, and Robt. Owen, a very fine incurved Japanese of
a deep bronzy yellow shade. With these the list must be closed, but it
should be borne in mind that only a few out of the many excellent
varieties have been mentioned, and those persons who will come to
London to see the various Chrysanthemum shows cannot do better
than devote an hour amongst the Chelsea plants ; it will, as everyone
who goes will afterwards say, be an hour well spent, and well worth
any little inconvenience or trouble it may cause.

Messrs. Cannell & Sons.

The great Swanley growers have a very fine display this year, their
large house, which is 150 feet long and 25 wide, presenting a very
beautiful appearance. The plants form a broad central and two
narrower side banks, and the principal one is broken up by handsome
Musas and other foliage plants which throw the colours into bold relief.
The Chrysanthemums are admirably grown, good culture setting its
mark on them, as well as on everything else at the Home for Flowers,
and all the most noteworthy of the newer varieties are represented,
together with a large number of seedlings.

The increasingly popular incurved Japanese section is materially
strengthened by Duke of York, a large deep flower showing a pink
reverse. The white Japanese, Beauty of Exmouth, is chaste and
pleasing, and only lacks depth to make a grand sort. Wm. Seward is
one of the features of the collection, this grand Japanese being in
splendid condition. The difference between flowers on the crown and
terminal buds is very marked, those on the latter being deeper in colour
and with more slender florets than the others. Without question it is a
great acquisition. A very large Japanese named M. Fernard Bertin,
tinted with rosy lilac, is highly promising. The beautiful bronzy
Japanese, Colonel Smith, is too well known now to need description.
Messrs. Cannell have grafted it on Chrysanthemum Halleri maximum,
as suggested by the accomplished Belgian horticulturist, Mr. Everaerts,
in the Journal last spring. Good bushes have been secured by grafting
in March, and it is noteworthy that the flowers on the grafted plants do
not damp like many of the others, owing perhaps to the smaller amount
of water required by the stock. There are several excellent decorative
varieties, such as Miss Watson, a yellow Japanese ; the old, but still
useful Elsie, Eynsford White, Gold Mine, and Golden Ball.

International, a rosy lilac Jap fading to creamy white, is noteworthy
for its great size ; Madame Edouard Eey, a soft pink with very broad
florets, incurving on the second bud, is a very promising Jap ; and so is
Eda Brass, soft blush, very large and full. A good incurved does not
turn up so frequently as a good Jap, but there is one in Globe d’Or, a
bronzy yellow with very broad petals, and another in the bronze Baron
Hirsch. A white of this section named Madame Chataing, raised by
Calvat, is very promising. A new white Japanese seedling named Amy
Chantler, which has extremely long florets, may fill up into a good
flower. Commandant Blasset has done so already, being full, well
formed, and fine, colour rosy crimson ; Lord Brooke, the incurved Jap
which aroused so much attention last year, is coming well, and with
very deep colour, showing deep reddish bronze ; Primrose League, a
light yellow Jap, is extremely good ; and so is G. W. Childs, its colour
being very rich. Such old favourites as W. Tricker and Vi viand Morel,
for such they now are, hardly need mention, for their qualities are
familiar. The yellow Viviand, Chas. Davis, is represented, and is vary¬
ing curiously in colour, some flowers being clear yellow, others fawn,
and others again suffused with lilac. But what promises to be a still
greater acquisition is Mdlle. Th^r^se Rey, a Japanese with florets as
broad and substantial as those of Marie Hoste ; it is white, save for a
yellow shading in the centre. Another grand novelty is J. Shrimpton, a
Japanese with wonderfully rich crimson flowers, and a thoroughly good
grower ; Striped Odorata, a sport from La Triomphante, lilac striped, is
pleasing ; and last may be mentioned a Jap named Vice-President
Calvat, a bronzy very deep flower, and carrying splendid foliage.

It is noteworthy that" the collection is much dwarfer this year, a
result brought about no doubt by the effects of the weather, combined
with the multiplication of dwarfer sorts than those which used to rule.
It is a very gratifying fact. A visit to Swanley is well repaid just now,
for in addition to this grand display of Chrysanthemums, the Zonal
Pelargoniums and winter Begonias are in splendid bloom.

Messes. J. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill.

Chrysanthemums are well represented at the nurseries of Messrs.
J. Laing & Sons this year, and the firm justly maintains the good reputa¬
tion they have long had in this respect. Whilst many of the better
varieties are staged in a large span-roofed structure at the Stanstead
Road Nurseries, it must not be supposed that these constitute the whole
of the stock. At the Vineyards, Catford, there are several long houses
filled with Chrysanthemums in excellent condition. All the best varie¬
ties are grown, and these now make a grand display. The plants are
noticeable for their robust appearance, and the flowers are obviously of
no ordinary character. Whilst keeping abreast of the times, the
principal point in view here is to grow only the best of the numerous
varieties that are now in existence, and to do these well. That this
object has been attained no one who pays a visit to Messrs. Laing’s
nurseries can doubt.

When a call was made last week many of the Japanese varieties
were expanding some splendid blooms, and by the present time they will

be in prime condition. The pretty salmon pink reflexed Japanese
variety Eda Brass is exceptionally good, and so is Charles Davis, the new
sport from Viviand Morel. Some splendid examples of Col. W. B.
Smith are grown, and the white Louis Boehmer, known also as Enfant
des Deux Mondes, is a worthy representative of the hirsute family.
Golden Wedding is seen in fine order here. This is a splendid Japanese
variety with large blooms of a rich golden yellow. Miss Dorothy Shea
(J) is a flower of good form and colour, and Miss Muriel Scott may be
described as a really good light yellow, similar in build to Etoile de
Lyon. Primrose League is very fine with its large creamy white grace¬
ful flowers, and Princess May, a Japanese variety of merit, is well grown.
William Seward is in excellent condition with its magnificent richly
coloured blooms, and the exquisite form of Vicomtesse Hambledon is
noticeable. The last named is an incurved Japanese of a large size and
silvery pink colour. Rose Laing still retains a prominent position on
account of its usefulness, and F. W. Flight is deserving of notice. The
last named is a reflexed Japanese variety, crimson florets and a golden
reverse, Eugene Farez is another of the same type with crimson red
flowers, and Duke of York is an incurved Jap of a deep pink shade.
This is a dwarf grower but possesses a strong constitution. The popular
Stanstead White still retains a first position, and amongst others such as
W. H. Lincoln, W. H. Atkinson, Middleton Clarke, and Miss Maggie
Newton are conspicuous.

Although less extensively grown, perhaps, than the Japanese the best
of the incurved varieties command attention, and fine blooms of these
will be now developing. Mons. R. Bahuant we noted as being particu¬
larly fine, and the same applies to Baron Hirsch, considered by some to
be the finest incurved in cultivation. Mrs. J. Mitchell, a sport from
Empress Eug6nie, is a splendid variety of a golden amber tint. Mrs.
Robinson King is likewise good, the same applying to other standard
varieties.

Mr. H. j. Jones, Ryecroft Nursery, Lewisham.

Although but three or four years have elapsed since Mr. H. J. Jones
established himself at Ryecroft Nursery, Hithergreen, Lewisham, he has
by characteristic perseverance built up a business that, so far as Chrys¬
anthemums are concerned, is practically unsurpassed. This enviable
position in the Chrysanthemum world is due solely to the exceptional
capacities displayed by Mr. Jones, his extensive knowledge of the
“ Autumn Queen,” and the unceasing manner in which he has striven.
From early morning till late at night this enthusiastic grower, aided by
his estimable partner in life and assistants, may be seen busily engaged
amongst his plants, and thus a Journal representative found him last
week. The result of this continuous labour, as before hinted, is a
magnificent collection of the best varieties, including the latest novelties
and numerous new seedlings of merit not yet in commerce.

The plants make an imposing display, even at this early period, and
by the middle of November the spectacle will be well nigh beyond
description. It is not an easy matter, however, for anyone to form an
adequate idea as to the magnitude of the Ryecroft collection without
paying a visit, but a few facts will show that it is of no ordinary
dimensions. Nearly 10,000 Chrysanthemums for providing large blooms
are grown, and in addition to these there are 18,000 plants in 6-inch
pots. Then we find 2000 plants of the early flowering varieties, of
which a speciality is made. These, however, were not sufficient, and
ever on the alert for making further progress, Mr. Jones last week
purchased by private contract the whole of Messrs. Pitcher and
Manda’s European stock of Chrysanthemums, comprising some 3000
plants, including many choice American seedlings. These have been
removed from Swanley to Ryecroft Nursery at a cost of £40,
and the two collections make a display of a unique character. The prin¬
cipal show house is 104 feet long by 24 feet wide, a splendid span-roof
structure, lofty, and well ventilated. In this no less than 4000 well
grown plants are most admirably arranged. Instead of the customary
straight path and formal crowded masses of blooms, the plants are
placed so that a winding walk is made through the centre of the
structure, the Chrysanthemums on each side forming a charming undu¬
lating surface of varied colouration. Apart from the house mentioned
there is another huge structure of similar dimensions filled to the
utmost with well grown plants of choice varieties. Thousands of home-
raised and foreign seedlings are on trial in pits and frames, and it is
obvious that from these some magnificent varieties will be forthcoming.

Regarded individually the blooms on the plants in the exhibition
houses are remarkable for their size and colour, comprising all the
latest novelties. The Japanese forms are especially good, and the
incurved varieties are showing wonderfully well. Space will not
permit us to enumerate other than some of the new varieties, but whilst
these are so much in evidence it may be taken for granted that the
standard choice kinds are similarly well grown. Amongst the novelties
of this year The Tribune takes a prominent place. Mr. Jones has
already secured two certificates for this charming Japanese variety, and
from a bloom grown by him the illustration (fig. 59) on page 403 has
been prepared. The flower is very large, of good build, with broad and
long florets of a soft primrose colour. For exhibition purposes this is
likely to prove a useful variety, the plant being also dwarf in growth.
Pearl Beauty is a beautiful incurved Jap, with long pearly white florets,
and Primrose League is destined to take a foremost position. The last
named is very large and of graceful appearance. Charles Blick, which
was raised at Lewisham, is grand golden yellow Japanese, and another
of Mr. Jones’ seedling, W. H. Atkinson, is in splendid condition. G. W.
Childs is the best scarlet crimson of the year, and a decided improve-

November 2, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

407

ment on J. Shrimpton. President Borel, which has been certificated
this season, is a handsome Japanese variety, striking purple colour and
golden reverse. C. Shrimpton, as seen at Lewisham, is a magnificent
bloom of E, Molyneux type, and one that is sure to find favour, and the
same applies to Madame Charles Molin. The last named will prove
better than the so-called white Viviand Morel. Beauty of Exmouth is
splendidly grown, and so is Kyecroft Glory, a rich yellow reflexed variety,
useful for decorative purposes. Mrs. Dreer is an American seedling of
the old Bouquet Fait type, but much better, and J. H. Taylor is a
beautiful bloom of large size, pale pink with a white centre. Pre¬
sident W. R. Smith is one of the best Japanese varieties of the season,
being massive in build and of a fine pink colour. It is thought that
this variety will, for exhibition purposes, displace many other pink
kinds which are now grown. Numerous others are strongly represented,
especially such popular varieties as Charles Davis, Mrs. Harman Payne,
Madame E. Rey, Miss Dorothy Shea, Baron Hirsch, Lord Brooke, and
Colonel W. B. Smith.

As before mentioned, Mr. Jones is exceptionally strong in seedlings,
and is in the possession of many grand varieties, about which something
will be heard later on. Mrs. Charles Collins, he considers, is a variety
of the future. This is an incurved Japanese of a large size, full flower,
long florets, colour flesh passing to white and slightly tinted pink.
Seedling 242 is a very fine Japanese, and so is H. H. Spencer. Seed¬
ling 401 is a splendid incurved Jap, white with a pale yellow centre,
and amongst the one thousand seedlings raised by Mr. Jones are many
others that deserve more than a passing reference. The hirsute-petalled
types are now plentiful, there being several new varieties. One named
Hairy Wonder, a carious flower of a bronzy yellow shade, is very
striking, and the same may be said of “ Sautel 1893,” an incurved
Japanese, florets very hairy, colour rosy ama¬
ranth with silvery pink reverse. Mr. Wm.

Trealease is a decided improvement of Louis
Boehmer. Mrs. Dr. Ward is perhaps one of
the finest hairy-petalled varieties now in
cultivation. This is a full and deep flower
of bronze yellow shade, tips and outer florets
shaded red. Other hirsute varieties include
W. A. Manda and the white Louis Boehmer.

All the latest novelties of merit in the other
sections are likewise grown, and it may be of
interest to add that plants of some of the
New Zealand varieties that were exhibited
in ice at the Royal Aquarium last year, may
now be seen carrying blooms at Ryecroft
N ursery.

Cheysanthemttms at Exmouth.

The headquarters for Chrysanthemums
in the West of England is the Claremont
Nursery. Japanese varieties have most
attention, and some hundreds of novelties
are on trial. As the birthplace of the
celebrated Beauty of Exmouth, this variety
is naturally very much in evidence, being
represented by about a hundred well-grown
plants carrying handsome blooms. The
largest bloom in the whole collection is Prim¬
rose League. This variety is of good habit and produces large blooms of
a delicate straw colour. Duchess of Devonshire varies in tint of
colour the same as Viviand Morel and other of this class ; many blooms
are almost white and others of a rosy magenta. Col. Smith is represented
by some handsome blooms. Eda Prass, for which Mr. Godfrey was
recently awarded a first-class certificate, is of delicate salmon pink, the
blooms being very deep and solid. The immense blooms of Mrs. Harman
Payne are very striking in colour, whijh is rosy magenta with a light
reverse. Incendie is a fine addition to the Japanese incurves ; the blooms
are light red with a rich golden reverse, very deep in build. Robert
Owen is a very good bronzy yellow, but apparently would expand in
better form with a little more heat. Charles Blick is a decided advance
on Boule d’Or and others of this class. Chas. Davis, the “ yellow ” sport
from Viviand Morel, is represented by rich bronze bloom. Miss Dorothy
Shea is a very fine drooping flower of a deep mahogany colour. Golden
Wedding will also And a place among the first twenty-four. The blooms
are of large size, good in form, of a rich buttery yellow.

Wm. Seward, the dark blooms of which contrast well with the light
varieties, is here well grown. G. W. Child is giving good solid blooms
a shade or two lighter than Wm. Seward, but with a buff reverse.
The white Louis Boehmer is similar to its parent, except the colour,
which is of a milky white. Lord Brooke is not of the first size, but the
bronzy incurved blooms are very striking. Miss Libbie Allen is almost
identical in shape, but is a clear lemon yellow, and of more sturdy
growth. Robert Flowerday is very distinct, the blooms are of a rich
purplish lake with a silvery reverse ; habit of plant robust and sturdy.

The foregoing list does not by any means exhaust all the good
varieties to be found in the Claremont Nursery, but, whilst bearing in
mind the great advance that has recently been made in Japanese, yet
those mentioned are likely to come to the front as sterling varieties.

Among the curious or novel kinds is Novelty, deep rosy purple, in
form very similar to an Endive ; also D61aux Pilars, in colour a rich
brown ; in fact, the tint now so very fashionable. This is one of the
hirsute section, and is certainly the most hairy up to date.

Several seedlings raised in the nursery are being tested by Mr.

Godfrey. The most promising is a very large and handsome pink named
Devoniensis. This in form is very striking, the florets are long and
drooping, gracefully recurving at the tips. Another is Exmouth
White, something after Beauty of Exmouth in form, but of the purest
white. — A N.C.S. Man.

CHRYSANTHEMUM SHOWS.

HAVANT. — October 27th and 28th.

The tenth annual Exhibition was held in the Town Hall on the dates
named. Cut bloom classes occupied the most important»ipart of the
schedule, the principal class being that for thirty-six distinct varieties,
half Japanese and the remainder incurved. Mr. Penford, gardener to
Sir F. Fitzwygram, Bart., M.P., Leigh Park, Havant, managed to win

premier honours. The Japanese blooms
were very fine, being large, full, and fresh.
The incurved were undersized, but neatly
staged. Especially good were the blooms
of W. Tricker, Condor, E. Molyneux, Stan-
stead White, Viviand Morel, Florence Davis,
Col, W. B. Smith, W. H. Lincoln, Excelsior,
and Val d’Andorre in the Japanese section ;
Madame Darrier, Jeanne d’Arc, Ami Hoste,
Novelty, Prince Alfred, and Princess Beatrice
were the most noticeable blooms in the
incurved section. Mr. J. Agate, Havant,
was a close second, the incurved being
superior, the Japanese lacking a few points.

FIG. 60. — L^LIO-CATTLEYA PISANDEA. {See page i.)

Charles Davis, Madame Octavie Mirbeau, Col. W. B. Smith, Amos
Perry, and George Savage, with Mrs. Heale, Mons. R. Bahuant, and
Prince Alfred were the best blooms.

For eighteen blooms, distinct, nine to be Japanese and the remainder
incurved, there was a spirited competition. Mr. C. J. Steptoe, gardener
to G. A. Gale, Esq., Horndean, was an easy first. E. W. Clark,
Marquise de Paris, Excelsior, Viviand Morel, Lord Wolseley, Miss
M. A. Haggas, and Mons. R. Bahuant were the best blooms. Mr. J.
Suter, gardener to J. Lascelles, Esq., Havant, was second. Mr. Pen-
ford was first for twelve Japanese with large, richly coloured examples
of the leading kinds ; Excelsior, Marquise de Paris, Col. W. B. Smith
deserve a special mention. Mr. Agate was a good second, Mr. A. W.
Howard, gardener to E. G. Boucher, Esq , Sennicotts, Havant, was third.
Mr. Penford was again successful, this time in the class for twelve
incurved, with medium-sized, neat blooms. Mr. Agate was second.

Three splendid stands of twenty-four Anemone blooms were staged,
Mr. Penford gaining premier award with an even, fully developed
collection, Soeur Doroth^e Souille, M. C. Lebocqz, Jeanne Marty,
Sabine, and Duchess of Westminster were especially well represented.
Mr. Agate was a close second, and Mr. Steptoe third. Mr. Penford was
again successful for twelve blooms of reflexed varieties, staging large
and solid examples of leading kinds. Felicity, Phidias, King of Crimsons,
Emperor of China, and Chevalier Domage were especially noteworthy.
Messrs. Steptoe and Agate followed in the order named.

Pompons made a bright display. For twelve sprays Mr. Agate was
an easy first, staging well-developed blooms of leading varieties. Mr.
H. Brown, gardener to J. Taplin, Esq., Havant, was second. Single-
flowered varieties are always well shown at Havant, and this year they
were better than usual. For twelve the last-named exhibitor won with
fully developed blooms of telling sorts most excellently arranged. Mr.
Agate was a good second. In this stand a new variety named Pattie
Penford was staged ; the florets are deeply reflexed, pure white, with a
pale green disc. Mr. Penford secured the prizes for premier blooms —
incurved and Japanese — Madame Darrier and Col. W. B. Smith. In
the class confined to amateurs and single-handed gardeners Mr. Holmes,

408

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 2, 1893.

Gosport, won first prize for twelve Japanese with a splendid stand of
blooms, almost equal to the best in the Show. Groups of Chrysanthe¬
mums were not numerous, but that from Mr. J. Agate contained fine
blooms, lightly arranged, and the premier prize was awarded. Mr.
J. Suter was second.

Primulas, Solanums, and table plants were well shown, and fruit
and vegetables were of commendable quality. Table decorations by
ladies only was a distinct feature of the Show, the prizes falling to Miss
Newman, Mrs. A. Stubbs, and Mrs. Conway in the order named, all
having effective arrangements.

LOUGHBOKOUGH.— October 28th.

The nineteenth annual Chrysanthemum Show was held in the
Town Hall on October 23th. The Exhibition was up to the standard
of former years in everything but the incurved blooms. These were
poorly represented, being very rough. Japanese blooms were well shown.

Messrs. Biddles & Co. took first prize in the group of Chrysanthe¬
mums, most of the plants having flowers fit for staging in the cut
bloom section. The same firm took first prize for a group of foliage
and flowering plants ; but all the groups were too formally arranged.
Primulas and dinner table plants were in good condition. Grapes
were well shown, as also were Apples and Pears. Collections of
vegetables shown by cottagers were excellent, and finer Celery has
scarcely ever been seen.

There was a very good collection of vegetables not for competition,
also a display of Orchids, both of which received certificates.

There were also prizes given for the best specimens of writing, free¬
hand drawing, and needlework, open to the scholars of the Loughborough
school. — J. L. B.

PORTSMOUTH. — October 31st,^November 1st and 2nd.

This great southern exhibition was one of the best yet held. The
Drill Hall in which the show took place affords ample space for the
exhibits and for the numerous company which attend this Exhibition.
The arrangements, as usual, were perfect in the hands of an efficient
Committee, guided by the Hon. Secretary, Mr. F. Power, and his assistant,
Mr. B. Miller.

Cut blooms formed the most attractive part of the Exhibition. The
principal class was that for forty-eight blooms, half to be Japanese and
the remainder incurved, in not less than eighteen varieties of each
section, and not more than two of one variety. No less than seven com¬
peted, making a very fine display. Messrs. W. & G. Drover, The
Nurseries, Fareham, won the premier position with large, well developed
Japanese, well staged. The incurved were of medium size, but neatly
finished. The names were — Japanese: Col.W. B. Smith (2), Charles Davis,
W. Seward (2), Stanstead White, Mrs. F. A. Spaulding (2), Gloire de
Rocher, Viviand Morel (2), E. Molyneux (2), Sunflower (2), Mrs. C.
Wheeler, W. H. Lincoln, G. C. Schwabe, Excelsior, Amos Perry, Puritan,
Alberic Lunden, W. Tricker, and Lord Brooke. Incurved: Empress of
India, Madame Darrier (2), Queen of England (2), Baron Hirscb, Lord
Alcester, Lord Wolseley (2), Jeanne d'Arc (2), M. Jules Barigney, Prince
Alfred, Alfred Lyne, Alfred Salter, Princess Beatrice, Lady Hardinge
(2), Nil Desperandum, John Doughty, Novelty, Refulgens, Brookleigh
Gem, and a seedling. Mr. N. Molyneux, gardener to J. C. Gamier, Esq.,
Rooksbury Park, Wickham, was a good second. The incurved were
more regular in size, but the Japanese were a trifle smaller. Especially
good were G. C. Schwabe, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Charles Davis, Sunflower,
and Mrs. C. H. Payne, while Princess Beatrice, Violet Tomlin, Ami
Hoste, Golden Empress, and Lord Alcester were noticeable in the
incurved section. Mr. G. Inglefield, gardener to Sir J. Kelk, Bart.,
Tedworth, Marlborough, third ; and Mr. Penford, gardener to Sir F.
Fitzwygram, Leigh Park, Havant, fourth.

The next important class was that for twenty-four, distinct, half
incurved and the remainder Japanese. Mr. Inglefield here secured
the premier award with a very fine stand. The incurved blooms were
perhaps the best in the Show. The names were Lord Wolseley, Golden
Empress, Madame Darrier, Emily Dale, Jeanne d’Arc, Baron Hirsch,
Princess of Wales, Empress of India, Prince Alfred, Lord Alcester, Lucy
Kendall, and Miss M. A. Haggis. The Japanese were Mrs. C. H. Payne,
W. H. Lincoln, Viviand Morel, Col. W. B. Smith, E. Molyneux, Sunflower,
W, Seward, Gloire de Rocher, Mrs. Falconer Jameson, W. Tricker, and
F. Davis. Mr. H. J. Parrott, gardener to Mrs. Kincaid Smith, Wood
End, Chichester, was a good second ; and Mr. N. Molyneux third. Six
competed in the class for twelve Japanese, distinct, and Mr. C. H.
Holloway, gardener to F. W. C. Read, Esq., The Wakes, Selborne, won
the premier award with a stand of heavy blooms. Mr. H. Parrott
was second, and Mr. Penford third, both staging creditably. Four
competed in the class for twelve distinct incurved. Mr. Penford won
with medium-sized examples of leading varieties. Mr. J. Hughes,
gardener to W. Baring, Esq., Norman Court, Salisbury, second ; and
Mr. C. J. Steptoe, gardener to G. Gale, Esq., Horndean, third.

The class for reflexed in twelve blooms, not less than eight varieties,
showed a falling off as compared to past years, six only competing. The
best blooms came from Mr. Penford, who had well-developed flowers of
King of Crimsons, Phidias, and Felicity. Mr. Steptoe was second, and
Mr. S. Dee, gardener to Mrs. Mills, Kingston, third. The Anemone
section produced a keen competition, the flowers being good in all the
six stands of twelve blooms. Messrs. Agate and Hatch, the latter
gardener to the Victoria Park’s Committee, Portsmouth, won first and
second honours ; and Mr. Penford was third.

Pompons made a bright and varied display. Mr. H. Lee, Moreland’s

Road, Gosport, won with twelve bunches. Mr. Hatch second, and Mr.
Agate third. A class was provided for the fimbriated section, in bunches
of three blooms to a bunch, and they made a fine display, cut with
from 9 to 12 inches of stem and leaves. Mr. Hatch was a distinct first
prize winner, Chardoneret, Croesus, Scapin, and Massange were really
fine. Mr. Adams, gardener to T. S. Edgecombe, Esq., Hinton House,
Southsea, was second. Single flowered kinds were also well staged in
bunches of three blooms each. Of six exhibits that from Mr. Brown,
gardener to J. Taplin, Esq., Havant, was first ; Mr. Agate second, and
Mr. H. Lee third.

For six Japanese, any one variety, Mr. C. Holloway staged Edwin
Molyneux, very fine, and easily won the first prize amongst seven competi¬
tors ; Mr. Hughes with Avalanche coming next, while Sunflower from
Mr. T. Wilkins, gardener to Lady Theodora Guest, Inwood House,
Blandford, secured a third place. In a similar class for incurved Mr.
Inglefield staged Jeanne d’Arc in fine condition, and won the premier
award. Mr. Hughes was second with Lord Wolseley, and Mr. Agate
third with Madame Darrier.

Messrs. Perkins & Sons, Coventry, with one of their usual arrange¬
ments, won first prize for a bouquet of Chrysanthemums and Ferns;
Mrs. F. Mills, 13, Florence Road, Southsea, was second. For the best
dressed glass stand with Chrysanthemums and other flowers there was a
brisk competition, no less than ten competing. Mrs. Conway, Havant,
won the premier award with a light arrangement of suitable flowers.
Miss Kate Golding, 24, Winchester Road, Southampton, was second. An
arrangement of autumn foliage and berries in an epergne brought out
five competitions. Mrs. Conway was again successful ; Miss C. Winch,
Gosport, second. On a table space of 3 feet each way prizes were
offered for the best arrangement of Chrysanthemums with any kind of
Kliage. Here Mrs. Conway again asserted her superior taste by winning
first place with a charming arrangement. Miss Kate Golding second.

Plants made a good display down the centre of the Hall and across
one end. For six trained specimens, Mr. Penford won ; Mr. G. Lam¬
bert, Bognor Road, Chichester, was second. For twelve plants in 9-inch
pots Mr. Lambert won, as also he did for a single specimen of any variety,
staging Mr. G. Rundle fully 4 feet in diameter and freely flowered. Mr.
Penford followed with Elsie. Mr. Lambert also had the best Pompons
in eight varieties, freely flowered examples of popular kinds.

Groups of Chrysanthemums only and those interspersed with foliage
plants made a bright display across one end of the hall. In the
former class Mr. Hatch won, showing well grown examples,
not too formally arranged. Mr. Lambert was second. In the latter
class Mr. W. Rooke, gardener to Messrs. Brickwood & Co., Southsea, was
first. Mr. E. R. Harvey, Portsea, was second.

Table plants made a fine display. Mr. A. Payne, gardener to Mrs.
Ewald Smith, The Oaks, Emsworth, won with twelve plants. Primulas
and Solanums were well exhibited.

Fruit was surprisingly well shown. For three bunches of BlacTs
Grapes Mr. Hall, gardener to S. Montagu, Esq., South Stoneham, won
first prize, staging Alicante, good in every respect. Mr. J. Knight,
gardener to H. Harding, Esq., The Retreat, Southsea, was second, and
Mr. Warden, gardener to Sir F. Bathurst, Clarendon Park, Salisbury,
third. The last named won for three bunches of any white variety
with Muscat of Alexandria. Mr. J. Parrott, with Alicante in prime
condition, won with two bunches any black Grape, Mr. Agate second.
The class for thirty dishes of Apples, distinct varieties, produced a fine
display. Mr. J. Watkin, Pomona Farm Nursery, Withington, Hereford,
was placed first with a splendid collection. Mr. G. Goldsmith, gardener
to Sir E. G. Loder, Bart., Horsham, was second, and Mr. J. Scott third.
Mr. Watkin followed up his previous success in the class for twenty
dishes of Pears with fine fruit. Mr. Goldsmith was second, and Mr.
Goodacre, gardener to the Earl of Harrington, Elvaston, Derby, third.
Mr. Goldsmith won with sixteen dishes of Apples and eight dishes of
Pears with splendid fruit. Many other excellent dishes were staged ;
but limited space forbids a mention of them individually. Vegetables
also made a great display.

Mr. H. J. Jones, Ryecroft Nursery, London, had eleven dozen cut
blooms of Japanese Chrysanthemums “ not for competition,” including
the many choice novelties he now has ; this stand attracted the
attention of many visitors. Messrs. Edwards & Son, Sherwood,
Nottingham, had a display of their vases, stands, baskets and epergnes
filled with Ferns.

KENT COUNTY.— November 1st and 2nd.

The sixth annual Exhibition of the Kent County Chrysanthemum
Society was held in the Rink, Blackheath, on the above dates. Taken
as a whole, the Show compared favourably with those held on previous
occasions, the cut blooms being particularly good.

For eighteen Japanese and the same number of incurved blooms,
distinct, Mr. H. Shoesmith, gardener to M. Hodgson, Esq., Shirley,
Croydon, was first. The Japanese varieties staged were fresh and clean,
and were as follows — Mdlle. Th^r^se Rey, W. Seward, Anna Hartshorn,
W. H. Lincoln, G. C. Schwabe, W. Tricker, E. Molyneux, Florence
Davis, J. Shrimpton, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, President Borel, Mrs. F.
Jameson, Viviand Morel (grand), Eda Prass, Sunflower, Mrs. G. W.
Adams, Col. W. B. Smith, and Avalanche. The incurves comprised
Queen of England, Vice-President Jules Barigney, Hero of Stoke
Newington, Madame Darrier, M. Martegnac, Refulgens, Empress of
India, Princess of Wales, Mrs. Heale, Prince Alfred, Baron Hirsch,
Novelty, Mons. R. Bahuant, Lord Alcester, Madame F. Mistral, Lord
Wolseley, Jeanne d’Arc, and Violet Tomlin. Mr. Leadbetter, gardener

November 2, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

409

to A. G. Hubbuck, Esq., Elmstead Lodge, Chislehurst, was second, and
Mr. P. Waterer, Fawkham, Kent, third, both exhibitors staging well-
grown blooms,

Mr. Wheadon, gardener to R. S. Collier, Esq., Hawthorns, Bickley,
secured the leading prize for twenty-four Japanese varieties, staging
well finished blooms. The best of these were W. H. Lincoln, Beauty
of Exmouth. Viviand Morel, J. Shrimpton, F. W. Flight, Mdlle. Marie
Hoste, and W. Tricker. Mr. A. Tomalin, gardener to S, Whyte, Esq.,
Crayford, was second, and Mr. Leadbetter followed. There were four
competitors in this class, and the competition was keen. Mr. Wheadon
repeated his success in the class for twelve Japanese varieties with a
stand of fine blooms, comprising the leading varieties. Mr. Thos,
Osman, The Gardens, Ottershaw Park, Chertsey, was second, the third
prize going to Mr. A. Tomalin. There was only one competitor in the
class for twelve incurved blooms, this being Mr. J. Lyne, gardener to
F. Tiarks, Esq., Foxbury, Chislehurst, to whom the first prize was
awarded. Mr. Leadbetter secured the leading award for twelve reflexed
blooms, staging fine examples ; Mr. T. Couldrey, gardener to J. Levy,
Esq., The Shrubbery, Grove Park, being second. Anemone-flowered
Chrysanthemums were best shown by Messrs. Leadbetter and Lyne, and
A. Tomalin, to whom the prizes were awarded as their names are given.
Messrs. A. Tomalin and J. Lyne also won the prizes for twelve bunches
of Pompons. Mr. Osman gained the first prize for six Japanese, one
variety only, with grand blooms of Sunflower. Mr. P. Waterer was
second with E. Molyneux, and Mr. Rhoden, Blackheath Park, third with
Stanstead Surprise. Mr. W. Ames, South Ashford, was first with six
incurved blooms, showing small but neat examples of Mrs. G. Rundle.

Amateur growers were well represented, and the same may be said
of gardeners who resided within a radius of three miles of the Rink.
Mr. J. Rhoden in the latter instance was placed first for six incurved
blooms, which were neat in appearance. Mr. T. Couldrey was second,
and Mr. Wainwright, Lee, third. The prizes for six Japanese went to
Messrs. J. Rhoden, T, Couldrey, and C. Bayer, Forest Hill. Dr. Walker,
Wimbledon, was placed first in the amateurs’ section for twelve incurved
blooms, showing neat examples of Violet Tomlin, Princess of Wales, and
Madame Barrier amongst others. Mr, A, J, Parker, 172, New Kent
Road, was second. Dr, Walker was also successful in gaining the first
prize for twelve Japanese, showing a stand of fine blooms of the leading
varieties. Mr. A. J. Parker was second, and Mr. W. Ames third. For
six Japanese blooms Messrs. Rose, G. Saunders, and A. J. Parker won ;
and for the same number of incurves Dr. Walker, A. J. Parker, and
W. Ames secured the prizes in order given. Mr. Saunders had the best
six blooms of one Japanese variety, Mrs. F. Jameson, and Mr. W. Ames
was second with Avalanche. Mr. Bertenshaw, East Dulwich, was first
for twelve Japanese blooms in this section, the second prize going to
Mr. H. W. Percy, Fairmont, Brockley. In other amateur classes blooms
were well shown.

For the President’s special prize for eight Japanese and eight
incurved blooms there were three competitors, these being Mr. A.
Tomalin, C. Payne, and Leadbetter, to whom the prizes were awarded
as their names appear. The competition was keen, fine blooms being
staged in each class. Mr. T. Osman had the best six blooms of Avalanche,
the second going to Mr. J. Lyne, who also secured the first award
for six blooms of Mdlle. Lacroix family. Mr. Percy won with six
blooms of the Rundle family, and Mr. A. Tomalin had the best twelve
flowers of the same section. Mr. Filkins, Oakbank, Chislehurst, staged
the best single bloom of W. Seward, a fine specimen.

The premier Japanese bloom in the Show was a splendid flower of
E. Molyneux, shown by Mr. H. Shoesmith. Mr. Leadbetter had the
best incurved variety, this being a beautiful bloom of Prince Alfred.

Groups of plants formed a feature in the Exhibition. For one
composed principally of Chrysanthemums, Mr. Rhoden, The Gardens,
Blackheath Park, was placed first ; Mr. F. Fox, gardener to Mrs.
Penn, The Cedars, Lee, was second ; and Mr. J. Williams, College Park,
Lewisham, third. There were twenty-four competitors in this class.

Miscellaneous exhibits were plentiful. Messrs. B. S, Williams and
Son, Upper Holloway, arranged a group of foliage plants and Orchids,
and Messrs. E. D. Shuttleworth & Co., Peckham Rye, sent a collection
of Ferns, Crotons, Palms, and Heaths. Mr. W. Wells, Earlswood, had
some Chrysanthemum blooms, as likewise did Mr. R. Owen, Maiden¬
head. Messrs. J. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, S.E., contributed a splendid
group of stove and greenhouse plants. Messrs. A. Tomalin, J. Lyme,
and Filkin, had groups of flowering and foliage plants in the competitive
classes. Primulas and table plants were well shown. Baskets and
bouquets of Chrysanthemums were exhibited by ladies.

Fruit formed an interesting feature in the show. Messrs. G.
Bunyard & Co., Maidstone, sent a very fine collection of Apples and
Pears in splendid condition. Grapes, Apples, and Pears were exhibited in
the competitive classes provided for fruit, but pressure on our spaces
prevents further reference.

ASCOT. — November 1st and 2nd.

The annual autumn Show in connection with the Ascot and District
Horticultural Society was opened on Wednesday last, when a grand
display of plants, flowers, and fruit was staged. Groups of Chrysanthe¬
mums and also of miscellaneous plants were of exceptional merit, the
competition in the various classes being keen. The incurved blooms
were not, perhaps, quite up to the usual high standard, the Japanese on
the other hand being better than is customary. The exhibits of vege¬
tables and fruit were numerous and fine, but space will not permit of
our referring to them at length. The same may be said of plants, of
which Primulas, Bouvardias, and Violets were prominent. We append

a list of the prizewinners in the principal classes devoted to Chrys¬
anthemums.

In the class for forty-eight, to include not less than eighteen
Japanese and eighteen incurved blooms, Mr. Thorne, gardener to Major
Joicey, Sunningdale Park, was a good first. The flowers staged were
grand, especially the Japanese, The exhibit comprised W. Tricker,
E. Molyneux, W, H. Lincoln, G. C. Schwabe, Viviand Morel, Colonel
W. B. Smith, Lord Wolseley, Queen of England, Prince Alfred, Mrs.
Heale, Camille Flammarion, Queen of England, Madame F, Mistral,
and Lord Wolseley, back row ; Mrs. Heale, Madame Barrier, Miss
M. A. Haggis, Jeanne d’Arc, Violet Tomlin, Madame Barrier, Madame
Mistral, John Lambert, J. Shrimpton, Majestic, Viviand Morel, Mons.

E. A. Carrier, Excelsior, Mrs. G. Herring, Count F. Lurani, and Mdlle.
Marie Hoste, middle row ; Colonel W. B. Smith, Stanstead Surprise,
Avalanche, Sunflower, Gloire du Rocher, G. W. Childs, Mdlle. Lacroix,
Boule d’Or, Ami Hoste, Mr. Bunn, Brookleigh Gem, Robert Cannell,
Willie, Barbara, Princess Beatrice, and Princess Teck, front row. The
second prize was awarded to Mr. Maxim, gardener to the Hon. Miss
Shaw Lefevre, Winchfield, who staged a highly creditable exhibit.
Mr. W. Lane, gardener to Miss J. Burning Smith, Ascot, third, and Mr.
J. Tomlin, gardener to Mrs. Goldenham, Chertsey, fourth.

Mr. Lane was a good first for thirty-six blooms, distinct, eighteen
Japanese and eighteen incurved. Mr. G. Barker, gardener to H. P,
Leschallas, Esq., Windlesham, was a very close second ; and Mr. P.
Harpley, gardener to F. Morrison, Esq., Sunninghill, a creditable third.
Mr. Cole, gardener to E. W. Hamilton, Esq., Charters, Sunningdale,
was a good first for twelve incurved blooms, distinct. This stand was
composed of Mons. R. Bahuant, Jeanne d’Arc, Lord Wolseley, Princess
of Wales ; back row : Madame Barrier, Princess Teck, Prince Alfred,
Mrs. S. Coleman ; middle row : Alfred Lyon, Violet Tomlin, Beauty,
and an unnamed pale pink variety. The second prize went to Mr.

F. Heereman, gardener to the Hon. Lady Isabella Keane, Rose Mount,
Sunningdale ; and the third to Mr. Joy, gardener to Mrs. Entwhistle,
The Oaks, Sunninghill, Mr. H. Popple, gardener to the Hon. Lady
Cowell Stepney, Wood End, Sunninghill, was an excellent first
for six distinct incurved blooms, showing Princess of Wales,
Violet Tomlin, Princess Teck, Prince Alfred, Jeanne d’Arc and Madame
Barrier. Mr. R. Bird, gardener to C. J. Barnett, Esq., Kings Beeches,
Sunninghill, second, and Mr. A. Hawthorn, The Gardens, St. George’s
School, Ascot, a fair third. For twelve distinct Japanese, Mr. A. Sturt,
gardener to N. L. Cohen, Esq., Englefield Green, was a capital first, staging
magnificent blooms ; Mr. Heereman was a good second, and Mr. J. Cole
third. For six Japanese, distinct, Mr. H. Popple was first. The second
prize went to Mr. Joy, and the third to Mr. R. Bird. Mr. J. Woodhouse,
gardener to Miss Belcher, Spring Grove, Sunningdale, was awarded the
first prize and the silver cup for twelve reflexed flowers. Mr. J. Cole,
was a close second and Mr. Thorne third. Mr. H. Popple was first for
six reflexed. Mr. Wm. Neate, gardener to Miss Thacker, Queen’s Hill,
Ascot, was second ; and Mr. E. Smee, gardener to Captain Hanbury,
Holmwood Lodge, Ascot, third. Mr. Joy, the only competitor, was placed
first in the class for six incurved blooms of the Queea family with
superb examples of Empress of India. Mr. G. Barker was first for six
incurved. Queen type excluded, with large clean blooms of Mons. R.
Bahuant ; Mr. J. Cole being second with Violet Tomlin, and
Mr. Hawthorn third with Prince Alfred.

In the class for six white Japanese, one variety, Mr. H. Popple was
first with magnificent flowers of Avalanche. Messrs. G. Barker and
R. Bird being second and third in the order named with the same
variety. For six coloured Japanese, one variety, Mr. Thorne was an
easy first with Wm. Tricker, Mr. Barker second with the same variety,
and Mr. Joy third with E. Molyneux. Mr, A. Sturt was a good first
for six Anemone flowered varieties, Mr. Hawthorn being second.

Mr. J. Cowie, gardener to V. L. Oliver, Esq., Whitmore Lodge,
Sunningdale, took the first prize for a large group of Chrysanthemums.
The arrangement was admirable, and the plants dwarf and well grown.
Mr. Attfield was second, and Mr. W. Lane third, Mr. F. Heereman w'as
first for a smaller group, Mr. White being second, and Mr. J. Edge third.

For four trained specimens, exclusive of standards, the first prize
was deservedly accorded to Mr. White, gardener to the Dowager
Marchioness of Conyngham, The Mount, Ascot ; the third prize going
to Mr. W, Lane. Mr. W. Neate was first for six specimen plants with
a good exhibit, Mr. White being second, and Mr. Attfield, gardener to
Sir W. Farmer, third. Mr. Neate was first for four Pompons in pots
with well flowered plants, Mr. B, Harpley second, and Mr, Hawthorn
third.

Mr. Thorne was first for a splendid group of miscellaneous plants,
taste in arrangement and excellent culture being striking features of
the exhibit. The Crotons were clean and splendidly coloured, as also
were the Palms and Ferns. Orchids, \vhich were represented ^ by
Oncidium tigrinum, Cattleya labiata, superb varieties ; Cypripedium
insigne and two grand seedlings were magnificent examples. Mr.
J. Edge, gardener to Lord Harlech, Tetworth, was second ; Mr. E. Smee
third ; and Mr. Hawthorn fourth.

The National Chrysanthemum Society’s certificate for the best
incurved bloom was awarded to Mr. Lane for a grand Baron Hirsch,
and for the best Japanese to Mr. Popple for a superb example of Sun¬
flower.

Miscellaneous exhibits, not for competition, were not numerous, that
of Messrs. Sutton & Son, comprised of Potatoes of their own introduc¬
tion, being prominent. Messrs. J. Standish & Co., Royal Nurseries,
Ascot, arranged a fine group of plants, including Ferns, Palms, and
Chrysanthemums.

410

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 2, 1893.

WOKK.Fo^™ WEEK..

Km

HAEDY FRUIT GARDEN.

Planting- Fruit Trees. — Early in November is a good time for
carrying out this important -work. Advantage can thus be taken of the
activity of the roots, which it is well known are disposed to freely produce
fibres at this season, and to quickly repair any damage done to them in
the process of lifting. Under favourable circumstances trees planted
early become well established before the winter, with the result that
they start freely into growth the following year.

Tlie Best Soil. — Good loam of a holding character, rich enough to
encourage a firm vigorous growth without inducing grossness, consti¬
tutes a typical fruit soil generally. It should be clean, not tainted from
the effects of powerful manures, friable to work, and well drained,
either naturally or artificially. Stone fruits like calcareous soil best.
If deficient in this matter add pulverised mortar rubbish or fresh lime.

Beptli of Soil. — An average depth of 2 feet will usually meet the
needs of most fruit trees. In light and dry soils an additional depth of
(5 to 12 inches will be of advantage. In wet soils a rather less ’depth
than 2 feet will be beneficial in keeping the roots in a warmer medium ;
indeed, in some cases it may be desirable to plant in mounds raised
above the surface, so that warmth and comparative dryness of the soil
may be secured, fruit trees never thriving with stagnation at the roots.

Manure.— In preparing soil just previous to planting fruit trees it
is not desirable to add manure unless the ground is very poor. The best
time to give it is in the spring or winter previously, heavily if necessary
then, working the ground deeply, and taking off a crop of Potatoes or
something which will sweeten the soil by abstracting from it some of
the stimulating elements which cause rank gross growth in fruit trees.

Obtaining- Trees. — Order fruit trees from nurserymen as early as
possible, first comers being the best served. Personal selection is pre¬
ferable, though those who cannot do this may depend on good firms
doing that business for them as well or better than themselves if supplied
with particulars as to soil, position, form of trees desired, and varieties
required. In the case of Apples, Pears, Plums, and Cherries, it must be
stated whether the varieties are wanted for cooking or dessert purposes.
It should also be noted when ordering whether they are desired to be
productive at an early period, or develop into large trees before heavy
crops are expected. Trees of the former class will be on dwarfing stocks,
which cause early productiveness, and such examples may be planted
closer together. The latter are on free stocks, consequently ought to be
planted at maximum distances.

The Best Trees. — Trees adapted for ready removal and furnished
with abundance of healthy, fibrous roots are usually on hand in
nurseries. They have been brought to this desirable condition with a
view to being quickly moved without feeling the effects to an injurious
extent, and when packed round with moist material to keep the roots
from drying, then forwarded promptly to their destination, they are sure
to do well if properly planted. The shoots should be clean and vigorous,
medium in length and thickness. Avoid strong trees with very gross
shoots, which will have correspondingly thick roots, lifting badly, and
failing under the best circumstances to become established quickly.
Another important point is to choose medium sized or small trees. It is
better to plant small trees than to depend on large specimens if they
come from a distance. Moving larger trees from one part of a garden
to another, however, can be effected readily without suffering if they
have been previously prepared for the process.

Boot Treatment. — Having already pointed out how important a
good supply of fibrous roots are to the speedy re-eatablishment of newly
planted trees, it is equally important that roots, whatever their character,
be kept moist from the time they are lifted until spread out in fresh
soil. Cut smoothly all wounded, jagged and broken ends. Mutilated
roots do not readily push fibres forth, indeed they often fail to do so at
all, but gradually decay and die back. Any rambling roots may be
shortened back within reasonable bounds, the whole being left so disposed
that they can be spread evenly throughout the soil when planting.

Planting. — The holes for the reception of the trees should be dug
wide enough so that the roots can be laid out horizontally from the stem
outwards without being turned upwards at the ends. No great depth
is necessary ; it will suffice if the upper layers of roots are within 3 or
4 inches of the surface when planting is finished. See that the stems
are not sunk lower than they previously were. This is an infallible
guide in forming the proper depth of the holes and in disposing the
roots. To plant below the earth mark causes the roots to be placed
deeper than needful, with the result that trees do not thrive properly.
Arrange the roots in layers, stretching them out to their full extent and
having fine loamy soil in readiness mixed with a little burnt refuse,
sprinkle the mixture upon them from the stem outwards. By this
means the fibres are fixed in position and in the right direction. Treat
each layer the same, making the soil firm by gentle pressure, not roughly
treading, which often ruthlessly breaks the roots near their origin with
the stem. After the fibres of each layer have been fixed and covered less

care will be necessary in throwing on the soil for forming a base for the
next layer, but the roots should be evenly covered.

Staking.— All trees must be securely staked to prevent movement
by the wind, and consequent dislocation of the roots out of their proper
position. Standards may have a strong support down each side of the
stem, round which some soft material should be wound to prevent the
ligatures employed injuiing the bark. The best tying materials are soft
yielding copper wire and stout flexible cord.

Watering. — As dry weather is the best period for planting, it may
occur that the ground is more than ordinarily free from moisture. Under
such conditions water immediately after planting may be applied. It
will fill up the interstices between the soil and roots, and help to con¬
solidate the soil about them.

Mulcblng. — The last detail in connection with planting consists in
mulching the surface over the roots with short strawy manure 3 inches
thick. The mulch prevents frost entering the soil and injuring the roots,
retards the escape of moisture, and serves to retain the natural heat in
the soil longer than would otherwise be the case.

FRUIT FORCING.

Vines. — Early-forced. — The Vines for affording ripe Grapes ha
April must now be started, whether they be in pots or planted out.
Those in pots are much the best, especially where bottom heat is provided,
which, however, is in either case indispensable, yet in early forcing
operations it is desirable. Place, therefore, fermenting materials in the
pits in which those in pots are stood on pedestals formed with bricks.
Do not allow the heat about the pots to exceed 70° to 75° — say, that
at the base of the pots, and 65° higher up at the commencement.
Suspend the canes in a horizontal position over the fermenting materials
to insure a regular break. Syringe three times a day in bright weather,
and when dull omit the late syringing, keeping every part of the house
moist by sprinkling as the surfaces become dry. A temperature of 50°
to 55° at night, and 60° to 65° by day will not be too much to begin
with, as Vines started at this season require a higher temperature to
excite the buds than those started later. Apply water judiciously in the
early stages of growth, only keeping the soil moderately moist until the
buds break, and afterwards increase the supply, corresponding with the
advancing growth, but avoid making the soil too wet or the roots will
decay.

Planted-out Vines should have the inside border brought into a moist
condition by supplying water at a temperature of about 75°, or if the
border is of an open nature, well drained, and the area comparatively
small to the extent of rod, liquid manure may be advantageously
supplied in a tepid state. The border or floor of the house may, if
convenient, be covered with leaves and stable litter in a state of fer¬
mentation about 18 inches to 2 feet deep, turning the material over
occasionally to prevent over-heating and liberate the ammonia, which is
beneficial to the Vines and inimical to insects. The outside border also
must be attended to ; if fermenting materials are not obtainable cover
with a good thickness of leaves, with a little litter over to prevent their
blowing about. If the border slopes, and the litter is put on similar to
thatch, much of the rain falling will pass off.

Vines for Starting in December. — Prepare the Vines and house for
another start without delay, as early pruning contributes much to com¬
plete rest. In pruning two eyes suffice for affording useful bunches ;
but if large bunches are required the Vines should be pruned less
closely, as it is necessary to have plump buds on stout, well-ripened
wood if fine bunches are expected to follow. Longer pruning is also
necessary when the buds at the base of the shoots are very small and
pointed, instead of round and plump. But compact bunches are much
the best for general purposes, as the berries swell to a good size, colour,
and finish well. Large loose bunches are usually defective, espe¬
cially in the case of early forced Vines. After pruning the
Vine should be stripped of the loose bark only and be washed
with softsoap and warm water. A solution of 4 ozs. to the
gallon of water is strong enough, and if there is not any mealy bug or
scale it will be all that is necessary. If, however, there has been any
scale or mealy bug a dressing of some insecticide must follow, and it
should be repeated before the Vines are started. Thoroughly cleanse
the woodwork of the house, and lime wash the walls. The surface soil
should be removed down to the roots, and fresh lumpy loam supplied.
Keep the house cool, admitting air freely when frost prevails.

Houses of Ripe Grapes. — Remove dead foliage where Grapes are
hanging, and look over the bunches frequently for the removal of decayed
berries. Maintain a temperature of about 50°, losing no opportunity of
admitting air when the days are fine, turning on the heat so as to cause
a gentle warmth in the pipes, and so insure a circulation of air and the
expelling of damp, turning off the heat at midday or soon after, so as to
allow the pipes to cool, and the temperature not kept above 50° at night,
and 5® or even 10° less on cold nights, except for Muscats or where the
foliage has not matured. In dull weather it will be necessary to keep a
little warmth in the pipes, but the house closed, and in that case the
moisture will be condensed on the glass instead of the Grapes.

Ripening the Wood. — Any Vines not yet hard and brown in the
wood should be kept closely s opped, fire heat being still applied with
free ventilation. The laterals should be brought down by degrees to the
principal buds, which will have a tendency to cause rest, especially if
air is freely admitted at night (but the temperature must not fall to
freezing point) the house being kept rather warm, yet not close, by day,
as that would have a tendency to induce growth. If the basal buds

Kovember 2, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

411

are small, the shoots may he cut back to two or three leaves above
the pruning buds, and this tends to plump them and induce rest in the
Tines.

Flgrs. — Early Forced Trees in Pots. — IE these have been placed in
the open air they should be taken under cover to protect them from the
cold autumn rains. Trees that are forced for affording fruit at the close
of April or early in May will now need to have the wood brushed over,
using softsoap, 4 ozs. to a gallon of water, brought to the consistency of
cream by adding flowers of sulphur ; but when using the mixture do
not rub off the young fruit. Very little pruning will be necessary, the
trees having been regularly stopped during the growing season, but if
the growths are too crowded or irregular they must be thinned to
render the trees open and symmetrical. Wash the woodwork and walls
with hot water, and the walls afterwards with quicklime and sulphur
formed into a rather thin wash, reaching well into every crevice.
A mild bottom heat is essential to a successful swelling and perfecting
of the earliest crops ; the pots therefore must be raised on loose bricks in
pedestal fashion to the position they are to occupy, and the pit be filled
with Oak or Beech leaves firmly pressed. If the pit be not more than
3 feet deep a third of stable litter may be added. Avoid overheating,
not allowing the heat about the pots to exceed 65° until growth takes
place. The house should be kept close and moist by sprinkling twice
a day in bright weather, employing fire heat to maintain a temperature
of 50° at night, 55° by day, and with sun 60° to 65°. If the soil in the
pots be dry, a thorough soaking of water must be given. Forcing
operations need not begin until the middle of the month. St. John’s,
Early Violet, White Marseilles, and Brown Turkey are excellent varieties,
and come in successionally ; but the two first have small, and the two
last large fruit.

Early Forced Planted-out Irees. — Trees in borders intended for
early forcing should now be untied from the trellis and pruned. Those
with the roots restricted to small borders, as Fig trees should be, will
require little more pruning than thinning out the shoots where too
crowded, but those not having the roots restricted will require a hard
pruning at the upper part of the trellis, so as to allow for the growth of
the branches, yet leaving a sufficient number of succeasional shoots for
bearing. Fork the surface of the border lightly, remove the loose
material, and apply a surface dressing of fresh loam not more than
2 inches thick. The roots will ramify through this, and they can be fed
to any extent by mulchings, top-dressings, or liquid manure when the
trees are swelling their crops. Ventilate fully at all times, except when
frost prevails, and at such times heat should be used to exclude it or
nearly so.

Succession Houses. — Prune the trees, cleanse the house, and put
everything into thorough order. Dress the trees with a warm soapy
solution, using a brush, which will do much to dislodge scale and render
more potent the insecticide, which should be applied after the trees
become dry after washing with the soapy solution. Complete any root-
pruning and lifting. Any unfruitful trees must be severely root- pruned,
and the roots restricted to moderate sized borders, depending more upon
active feeders near the surface encouraged by mulching than a large
extension of roots. Make the soil firm, employing one-sixth of old
mortar rubbish and a similar proportion of road scrapings where the soil
is deficient of calcareous matter and grit. To succeed with planted-out
Fig trees it is necessary to restrict the roots to a limited area, and keep
the growths well exposed to light.

Late Houses. — The trees in these showing a tendency to over^
luxuriance should be lifted and root-pruned, providing good calcareou^
gritty loam over thorough drainage and firming the soil well. This i®
an excellent remedy for trees casting their fruit in an unaccountabl®
manner. Too rich soil and too large borders cause the trees to becom®
exuberant and cast their first and only crop Figs, except in seasons lik®
the present, when the second crop fruit ripened in many cases, and has
not done any harm to next year’s first crop where the second crop was
only allowed on the bases of the current year’s wood. When the leaves
fall the trees must be unloosed from the trellis, and the branches being
tied together in convenient bundles they should be made secure with
some dry straw or fern amongst and over them or matting. The collar
of the trees and for a little distance from the stem should also be
protected with dry litter. This is only necessary in unheated houses,
but frost must be excluded in heated houses or nearly so, otherwise the
trees may suffer from severe frost, they sometimes being killed to the
ground against walls when unprotected.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

Clearing Beds and Borders. — If possible all the beds should now
be cleared, the work of refilling being best done before cold wet weather
sets in. When there are no attempts mads to fill the beds with either
spring flowering plants, bulbs, nor any ornamental shrubs and Conifers
put out, the beds or borders ought to be simply cleared of plants and
rubbish now, digging being completed after all the leaves from deciduous
trees near at hand have fallen. In many cases it is scarcely necessary
to dig the beds prior to refilling with a variety of bulbs and plants,
moderately firm ground suiting these better in every way.

Refilling the Beds. — Those who have prepared abundance of
Wallflowers, Polyanthuses, Primroses, Daisies, Silenes, Saponaria, Forget-
me-nots, Limnanthes, and similar plants, and can therefore afford to
plant these rather thickly in masses with suitable edgings, will most
probably be rewarded with a fine display next spring. The strains of
Polyanthus are now particularly fine, and if strong plants can be given

the benefit of a little fresh loamy soil their effect will be considerably
enhanced. See that the plants are in a moist state when lifted, and
move with a moderately large ball of soil about the roots. Violas
suffered greatly from the drought, and young plants are scarce. These
latter may, however, be supplemented by the old ones duly shortened
back and replanted. Old plants of Golden Pyrethrum that have not
been allowed to flower can be worked in again effectively, Stachys
lanata being also quite hardy, and may be pulled to pieces and replanted
now. Euonymus edgings can likewise be retained.

Small neat plants of Retinosporas, Cupressuses, Thujas, Tew,
Junipers, and other Conifers are very suitable for flower garden
decoration, these being planted in panels or masses according to their
height and shades of colour, while taller well formed specimens are
particularly well adapted for central and dot plants. With the Conifers
may be associated neat plants of Hollies, Box, Euonymuses, Berberises,
Ivies, Osmanthuses, Aucubas, Laurels, and berried plants of Pernettyas,
Skimmia japonica, and Cotoneasters. Dwarf Rhododendrons well set
with buds move readily, and would flower grandly next April or May.
Single pieces of Yuccas are very effective as dot plants, a groundwork
of Saxifraga crassifolia being very suitable. Nor should the value of
Iris foetidissima variegata be overlooked, large clumps of this dividing
readily. Neat branches of evergreens, notably Mahonias, Aucubas,
Tree Ivy, Hollies, and Box thrust firmly into the soil in masses will
keep fresh for several months, and are fairly good substitutes for
plants.

Spring-flowering Bulbs. — Early in November is a good time to
plant Hyacinths, Tulips, Narcissi, Daffodils, Leucojums, Crocuses,
Scillas, and Snowdrops, a moderate outlay on new bulbs being all that
is necessary to insure a charming display next spring. They may either
supplement the other plants and shrubs already alluded to, or be chiefly
depended upon to brighten up the beds in the spring. Indiscriminate
mixtures should be avoided. Hyacinths, Tulips, and Narcissi being most
effective when separately occupying the centres of the beds ; while
Crocuses, Scillas, and Snowdrops are most suitable for edging. Mixtures
of one kind, or say of Hyacinths, are attractive enough, and so are
masses of one colour. The bulbs of most of these may be planted 9 inches
asunder each way, the miniature varieties being disposed somewhat
closer, and should be covered by 4 inches of soil, a little sand under and
about each bulb being used where the ground is of a heavy nature.
Narcissi should be in every way treated similarly to Hyacinths, Daffodils
being best planted in borders where they can remain undisturbed, while
the neat growing Van Thol Tulips may well be planted 4 inches
asunder each way and 3 inches deep, stronger varieties being disposed
6 inches apart. Snowdrops, Crocuses, Winter Aconite, and Scillas may
either quite fill very small beds or be planted near the margin of the
larger beds. Single lines look lost, and these small kinds should be
planted in double lines or circles 3 inches apart and 4 inches deep.

Storing Summer Bedding Plants. — The best results attend the
practice of putting out strong spring-rooted Dahlias, but in order to be
certain of plenty of strong cuttings a good proportion of the old roots
should be stored where either drip or frosts cannot reach them. Cut
down the old stems to within 9 inches of the ground, fork out the roots so
as to preserve most of the tubers, leaving a little soil, lay them on their
sides for water or sap to run out from the stems, and dry before storing.
They keep well in a dry cool shed, the roots being surrounded with sand
or fine dry soil, and protected when severe frosts are anticipated.
Gladioli also should be cut down after the tops are either ripened or
damaged by frosts, and after the corms have been dug up, and well dried
all, large and small alike, should be surrounded by sand in shallow boxes.
Cannas should have rather more soil left on them than is neces¬
sary in the case of Dahlias, and after being dried somewhat should be
stored in a warm dry cellar or greenhouse where drip will not reach
them. Salvia patens is tuberous-rooted, and should be treated
very similarly to Dahlias, while a few boxes may well be filled
with the long fleshy roots of Verbena venosa. When frosts have
blackened the tops of Tuberous Begonias lift the roots, leaving a little
soil about the bulbs, and dry thoroughly in a vinery or other structure.
When the stalks are quite decayed remove them cleanly from the bulbs,
and store the latter closely together on boards or in boxes in a dry cellar
or shed where frosts cannot reach them.

Acacia lophantha, Grevilleas, Abutilons, Cyperus natalensis, and
Marguerites can usually be lifted and placed in pots. If it is intended
to store many of the old Zonal and variegated Pelargoniums pick off
most of the leaves and shorten the roots, this admitting of their being
packed closely together in either large or small pots. Given the benefit
of a little dry heat they will not shrivel or damp off badly, and yield
good cuttings in the spring. If Fuchsias are still green gradually dry
them off with a view to hardening the wood prior to storing.

GARDENERS’ CHARITABLE AND PROVIDENT
INSTITUnONS.

The Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Institution.—

Mr. G. J. Ingram, 50, Parliament Street, London, W.C.

United Horticultural Benefit and Provident Society.—
Secretary, Mr. W. Collins, 9, Martindale Road, Balham, London, S.W.

Royal Gardeners’ Orphan ¥vst).— Secretary, Mr. A. F, Barron,
Royal Horticultural Society’s Gardens, Chiswick, London, W.

412

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 2, 1893.

^ (5

. . — 7—. — .r.-i-.-T. T . t . 1 . . • . - 1 . . • . - l-r-J

I

HE BEE-KEEPER.

APIARIAN NOTES.

Hive Making.

In answer to a question on the subject, I know of no bee
book that gives “ instructions in frame hive building on the latest
and best principles.” The standard hive is not now what it was
when introduced with one-sized frames, but has two sizes, deep
and shallow ones — an undesirable arrangement — and is, in fact, a
combination of different kinds of hives.

The Lanarkshire storifying hive is undoubtedly the most
suitable for bee-keeping in all its phases, no other being equally
adapted for moving from one place to another, or wintering with
equal safety to the bees. Instructions were given in the Journal
of Horticulture some years since for making these hives, but as the
numbers are not obtainable now I will, in the serial articles for
beginners, repeat the instructions at an early date, from which any
amateur can readily make his own hives.

Hives and Honey.

There are few newspapers or other periodicals that do not con¬
tain some paragraph on the extraordinary fine season and large
honey yield of a superior quality rarely experienced by the oldest
bee-keeper living. The facts are, while the season has been a good
one, it has been by no means more productive than many past
ones that yielded double the quantities in half the time. Within
the past few weeks I have examined many tons of honeycomb.
The difference between that built in the so-called standard hives
and those on the Lanarkshire and Stewarton principle is so great
that the wonder is why bee-keepers persist in using hives like the
former, that produce such inferior honeycomb to what the latter does.
It may seem like boasting, but it is a fact, I have not seen a fine
example of Heather supers from any hive but from the two last-
named ones, and this is granted by all who have examined it.

Honey and Heather.

Lately there has been going the rounds of the press an article
giving a description of the “ honey harvest ” in the south of Scot¬
land, but it is so meagre that no one reading it can discover the
slightest evidence of what the yield has been there, the writer
appearing more anxious to take in other localities, and to depreciate
the county of Lanark as a honey yielding district, save in the upper
reaches of the Clyde ; but in almost one breath he contradicts the
statement, descanting upon the Leadhills district. He terms it an
arid place, and that the arid ness destroyed the Heather. Such is
the statement we read.

As a fact I can say Heather was never known to be finer ; much
of it had yearling growths upwards of a foot long, with many
lateral shoots, which formed dense spikes of flowers instead of
sprays, the dry and hot season being the sole cause, rain at all times
being inimical to its growth.

Eain in the North.

It is singular that for many years the rain began to fall in
Lanarkshire on the 7th of July. This year has been no exception,
and from that date till the 13th of August there were only two
days without rain, and after that for a considerable time the sky
was overcast, so that for upwards of five weeks the sun was not seen
for more than eighteen hours, the hay crop being dried with wind,
and not sunshine.

Brimstoning Bees.

Many hives have been brimstoned by the owners who had no
use for them, this too despite all the sensational talk that has been
raised against the practice. I am against it, but what are bee¬
keepers to do with surplus bees when they are of no use ? This I
have partly answered before, and will endeavour to do so again, at
least to some extent.

Hive Experiments.

I have been an eye witness to several manipulations lately. At
one place there were various kinds of hives from the Stewarton to
Abbott’s “ Combination ” hive. The former had beautiful supers,
and no difficulty was experienced in removing them, while the
operator was not much exposed to infuriated bees, the crown of
the hive being as it ought nearly all closed. There were supers on
the combination hives placed close up to the outer casing which is
raised some 5 or 6 inches above the crown. The supers were fixed
combs built from the top of the bars to the top of supers, they
could not be separated by cutting, but had to be forced off.

Result : — One half of the combs were left adhering to the top of
hive, and the other in the super. A blackened mass of combs and a
great contrast to the supers from Stewarton hives, while the
exposure of the whole of the hive subjected the operator to the
fury of the enraged insects, which with properly constructed
frames, and entrances to the supers at the sides only, would have
been avoided. Nor was that the least of it, the enormity of their
size precludes the possibility of them being profitably and expedi¬
tiously moved about, while so much exposed surface makes them
expensive hives to keep up.

•**A11 correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor ” or to “ The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Reflexed Chrysanthemums (^Reader'). — You ask for twelve
varieties, but as a rule not more than six or eight are asked for in stands
of twelve blooms, and they can be chosen from the following varieties.
Cullingfordi, Cloth of Gold, King of Crimsons, Pink Christine, Golden
Christine, White Christine, Peach Christine, Chevalier Domage, Dr.
Sharpe, Phidias, Putney George, and Annie Salter.

House for Tomatoes and Cueumbers (i?. — For summer

work the ends of a span-roof house are best running north and south,
and for winter a three-quarter span-roof house facing south is much the
best. A span-roof with the ends facing the east and west is better for
winter work than one with the ends north and south, but the plants do
much better on the south than on the north side of the house.

Redrafting Apple Tree (iZ. S."). — For an espalier it would be
much best to regraft the tret in the stem at A B in your sketch,
putting in four grafts if this can be done without parting the bark
from the woodall round, as there must be unraised bark between
the grafts. You can take two growths up to form the branches
you show us, C D, and reserve two for forming the lower limbs A B,
or the two upper branches can be originated from two grafts inserted
at the lower point, taking the strongest growths to form the limbs
A B, and the weaker lower ones on the grafts to form the branches
C D.

Clay for Cricket Field (67ay). — Perhaps the “ Professional
Player” thinks the ground is not firm enough, and he would like the
turf removed and some clay mixed with the soil under it, the whole
made firm and the turf relaid. If he thinks clay spread on the surface
would do good, and your employer accepts his opinion, the best way of
adding the clay would be in the form of small particles after drying
and crushing. Burnt or charred clay would be the best. Without
knowledge on the nature, and texture of the soil we cannot advise
on the matter, but simply answer your question. If clay is mixed
with the soil under the turf, it should be in pulverised form, not raw
lumps.

IVXarechal Hlel Perplexities (<S. S.'). — The advice you quote is
very good, and we have no doubt if the writer had a case brought before
him of starved Roses in summer he would add to his advice, “ Give liquid
assistance without delay, no matter what the season of the year, if the
soil is in a proper condition to receive it.” The conditions of growth
must always be considered in connection with the question of stimulants
of any kind for any plants at any time. Your plants continue growing
though you have given no water since the third week in August because
the roots have found their way into moist soil, dry as the border may be
near the surface. They often grow more freely but less substantially
than when a mass of fibrous roots are imbibing better food from near
the surface of the soil. Growths supported by such roots are usually
short-jointed, and we have never known them fail to ripen under proper
cultural conditions — full exposure to sun and air with freedom from
insects. If your Rose border was mulched it may not have been very
dry after all, but we do not like driving the roots of Roses, Vines, or
anything else deep down into the earth by withholding them the needful
moisture in the upper stratum of more fertile soil.

November 2, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

413

Grafting: iviedlar Tree (^Constant Reader'). — We have no ex¬
perience of grafting a Medlar tree with another kind of fruit, which
we presume is what you desire to do, as you say you “could put eight
or nine grafts upon it if anything would do upon it.” As the Medlar
succeeds when grafted on Whitethorn (Hawthorn), seedling Pear, and
Quince stocks, upon which also the Pear succeeds, you can regraft the
Medlar, which you find is grafted on the Hawthorn, with some hardy
variety of Pear, as the Hessle, Comte de Lamy, or Althorp Crasanne,
with a probability of success. By this procedure you may secure a
profitable tree in two or three years, and it is likely the fruit would be
fine. If the Pear grafts do not take on the Medlar, graft with Hawthorn
and then insert buds or grafts in the Hawthorn of some approved
Pear.

Soils at Waltham Cross (^Reader). — You do not know what is
meant by the “ different ‘soils ’ being constantly under observation,” as
stated on page 385 last week. We do not wonder at this. The word
“soils” was written sorts, in reference to the antecedent fruits, but was
altered by the compositor, and his little error ought to have been
corrected, but escaped notice by the proof reader. Compositors often
have peculiar caligraphy to decipher, and but for lynx-eyed correctors
some curious renderings would appear in the press. The other day we
observed a reference to “ the well-known firm of Messrs. Batten and
Sons,” and another to “ seneseniadeans.” Only a moment’s reflection
was needed to transform the “ Batten ” into “ Sutton,” and the other
problem was eventually solved as meaning Jeanie Deans Potato.
Printers like the names of persons and varieties to be made as clear as
possible by correspondents, however hurriedly the general “copy ” may
be written.

rorcing lillles of the Valley (iZ. B.). — Any particular kind of
soil is not material in the early forcing of these flowers, thousands of
them being raised by packing the crowns or clumps in pots or boxes of
cocoa-nut fibre refuse, and forced in pits having bottom heat of 85° to
fiO°, and top heat ranging from 70° to 80°. The crowns are either
covered 2 or 3 inches deep with fibre, or otherwise kept dark and con¬
stantly moist. When forced into flower early or before Christmas the
crowns are of little or no further use. For spring flowering the
crowns or clumps may be firmly potted now in a mixture of loam,
leaf mould, and sand, the former preponderating, and buried in fibre
or ashes in a frame like Hyacinths. The requisite number of pots can
then be withdrawn at intervals and placed in a warm house so as to
maintain a prolonged supply of flowers. If the pots can be plunged in
a warm bed growth will be accelerated, and it is well to cover the
crowns an inch or two deep with fibre or leaves. They will grow very
well in a temperature ranging between 55° and 70°, or even less, but
the lower the temperature the slower is the growth, and usually the
sturdier the plants. If good foliage is developed, and this is well sup¬
ported and matured under the full influence of light and air, late-forced
plants will flower again another year.

Crataegus azarolus (ZZ. P.) — As you wish to know whether the
above Cratmgus “is worth planting” we cannot do better, in answering
your question, than to publish the following remarks of a competent
gardener: — “ Unquestionably this is one of the most beautiful Thorns
we have, and it richly deserves the attention of those whose time and
minds will be occupied during the next two or three months in planting
and replanting various kinds of evergreens and deciduous trees and
shrubs. At this time of the year it certainly has a very attractive and
charming appearance, and cannot fail to elicit admiration from many
who are not habitually close observers of the beauties of Nature, but
whose innate love of bold and striking objects compels them, uncon¬
sciously as it were, to notice anything above mediocrity. For planting
on lawns or in parks as single specimens it is admirably adapted,
and where it does not already exist a few trees would add much to the
scenery, and greatly improve the surroundings of any country or
suburban residence. Its blossoms are probably less showy than any of
the scarlet or common white Thorns, but the haws which the trees are
still bearing are exceedingly pretty, being of a beautiful bright orange-
scarlet in colour, almost as large as Cherries, and borne in clusters of
from three to ten, render it very conspicuous from a considerable
distance. Although the character of the tree is seen to the best
advantage when growing singly, we do not doubt but that clumps or
rows along the outskirts of woods and plantations would be equally
effective. If it were desired to heighten the effect a few clumps of
Pampas Grass planted in front would form a very pleasing and striking
contrast.”

N'ames of Fruits. — Notice. — We have pleasure in naming good
typical fruits (when the names are discoverable) for the convenience of
regular subscribers, who are the growers of such fruit, and not col¬
lectors of specimens from non-subscribers. This latter procedure is
wholly irregular, and we trust that none of our readers will allow
themselves to be made the mediums in infringing our rules. Special
attention is directed to the following decision, the object of which is
to discourage the growth of inferior and promote the culture of superior
varieties. In consequence of the large number of woi'thless Aqtples and
Pears sent to this office to be 7iamed, it has been decided to name only
specimens and varieties of approved merit, and to reject the inferior.,
which are not worth sending or growing. The names and addresses of
senders of fruit to be named must in all cases be enclosed with the
specimens, whether letters referring to the fruit are sent by post or
not. The names are not necessarily required for publication, initials
sufficing for that. Only six specimens can be named at once, and any 1

beyond that number cannot be preserved. They should be sent on the
first indication of change towards ripening. Dessert Pears cannot be
named in a hard green state. (Z?. Waft). — 1, Golden Pearmain ; 2,
Ribston Pippin ; 3, Yorkshire Greening. (J7. Barfoot). — 1, Beurre
Diel ; 2, Bergamotte Esperen ; 3, Duchesse d’Angouleme ; 4, Beurr6

d’Amanlis ; 7, Van Mons Leon Leclerc ; 8, Perhaps Glou Morqeau, good
fruit and well packed. (U.).— 1, Beurre Diel (from the Quince stock
probably, the fruit sent last week being from a Pear stock) ; 2, Worthless,
graft the tree ; 3, Susette de Bavay ; 4, Minchull Crab ; 6, Adam’s
Pearmain (fine). (IF. J. .5.).— -1, Gloria Mundi ; 2, Reinette de Canade ;
3, Reinette de Caux ; 4, Mabbott’s Pearmain ; 5, Royal Russet ; 6,
Franklin’s Golden Pippin. {J. M.). — We think the names we gave are
correct, but if you have a doubt and will send more than one specimen
of each variety we will go into the matter again. {J. Ramskill), —
Marie Louise. (ZZ. 0, S.). — 3, Waltham Abbey Seedling ; 4, M^re de
Manage, we have no other Apples from you. (P. K.). — New Bess
Pool, (IF. A. Je?ikins). — 1, American Mother; 2, Cellini; 3, Not
known, worthless; 4, Dumelow’s Seedling. (P. 31. Al).— !, Large
Cockpit ; 2, Queen Caroline ; 3, Dumelow’s Seedling ; 5, Winter
Colman ; 6, Maltster ; 7, London Pippin. (A.). — We are very sorry

to say that owing to defective packing there was not one whole berry
on the bunch of black Grapes, and the white berries were little better —
a bruised broken mass, rendering the naming of the varieties impossible.
If you send again you must pack more firmly, and we should also like
to know whether the Grapes were ripened with the aid of fire heat
or not. (A. D.). — 2, Red Doyenn^ ; 36, Marie Louise ; 38, Cobham.

TTames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp,
(Zl. 31.). — Pothos argenteus, (ZZ. D. P.). — 1, Thunbergia affinis ;
2, Hibiscus pedunculatus. (A. B.f — Dracaena australis. (^Amateur), —
Lapageria rosea, (dZ. P.). — Solanum corymbosum, the Corymbose
Nightshade.

OOVENT GARDEN MARKET. — November 1st.

Market steady, supplies being regular with no alteration in values.

FRUIT.

s.

d.

s.

d.

d.

s.

d

Apples, per bushel .. ,,

2

0 to 7

6

Peaches, per doz .

0

0 to

0

0

Cobs .

0

0

30

0

Plums, per half sieve

0

0

0

0

Grapes per lb .

0

6

2

0

St. Michael Pines, each . .

2

0

5

0

Lemons, case .

10

0

15

0

VEGETABLES.

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

Beans, Kidney, per lb.

0

3

to 0

4

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2 to

0

0

Beet, Red, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

0

Carrots, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

2

0

3

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . . . .

2

0

3

0

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

6

Celery, bundle .

1

0

1

3

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

4

6

Coleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Salsafy, bundle . . . . . .

1

0

1

5

Cucumbers, dozen . . . .

1

0

2

0

Scorzonera, bundle .. ..

1

6

0

0

Endive, dozen .

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb .

0

3

0

0

Herbs, bunch .

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel .. .. ..

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch . . . . . .

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

7

Lettuce, dozen .

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Mushrooms, punnet . . . .

0

9

1

0

AVERAGE WHOLESALE PRIDES.— OUT FLOWERS.

Orchid Blooms in variety. Chrysanthemum bloomsvery plentiful this season, hence
the price is very low.

s. d. s. d

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms ., 3 0 to 5 0

Azalea, dozen sprays. . ..10 16

Bouvardias, bunch ., ,.0 6 10

Camellias, dozen blooms ..10 30

Carnations, 12 blooms .. 0 6 2 0

Chrysanthemums, dozen

bunches . 3 0 6 0

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis. 0 6 3 0

Daisies, Michaelmas, dozen

bunches . 30 6 0

Bucharis, dozen . 4 0 6 0

Gardenias, per dozen ..2 0 4 0

Lilac (French) per bunch 3 6 6 0

Lilium lancifolium, dozen

blooms . 10 30

Lilium longiflorum,perdoz. 6 0 9 0

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

bunches . 40 60

Marguerites, 12 bunches ..2 0 4 0

8.

Mignonette, 12 bunches .. 2

Orchids, per dozen blcoms 3
Pelargoniums, 12 bunches 6
Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

bunches . 4

Primula (double), dozen

sprays . 0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches 2
Roses (indoor), dozen .. 0

„ Red, doz. bunches ., 6

„ Tea, white, dozen . . 1

„ Yellow, dozen .. .. 2

Tuberoses. 12 blooms. . .. 0

Violets, Parme (French),

per bunch . 2

Violets, Czar (French), per

bunch . 2

Violets (English), dozen
bunches . 1

d. s. d.

0 to 4 0

0 12 0

0 9 0

0 6

6 10

0 4 0

6 16

0 12 0

0 2 0

0 4 0

4 0 6

6 3 0

0 2 6

6 2 0

PLANTS

s. d. s. d.

Arbor Vitse (golden) dozen 6 0 to 12 0

Aspidistra, per dozen .. 18 0 36 0

Aspidistra, specimen plant 5 0 10 6

Asters, dozen pots .... 3 0 6 0

Chrysanthemums, per doz. 4 0 9 0

„ large plants, each 10 2 0

Coleus, per dozen . . ..4 0 0 0

Dracaena terminalis, per

dozen . 18 0 42 0

Dracmna viridis, dozen .. 9 0 24 0

Ericas, per dozen .. ..9 0 18 0

Euonymus, var., dozen ..6 0 18 0

gyergreens, in var., dozen 6 0 24 0

IN POTS.

s.

Perns, in variety, dozen .. 4

Ferns (small', per hundred 4
Ficus elastica, each .. .. 1

Foliage plants, var., each. . 2

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen 12
Lycopodiums, per dozen .. 3

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . , 6

Mignonette, per doz . 4

Myrtles, dozen . 6

Pahhs, in var.. each .. .. 1

„ (specimens) .. ..21

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz. 2
Solanums, pec dozen.. .. 9

d. s. d.

0tol8 0
0 6 0

0 7 6

0 10 0

0 24 0

0 4 0

0 12 0

0 6 0

0 9 0

0 15 0

0 63 0

0 0 0

0 12 0

414

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 2, 1893.

FARM PROFITS.

Applications from eight farmers for a small dairy farm
which becomes vacant next Lady Day, and the hire of that
farm by one of them at a rent of £2 an acre (others were
willing to give as much), show that farmers do not despair
even after such a disastrous summer as that which is just ended
has proved to so many of them. It tends also to show that
while many a corn farmer is unable to pay a penny of his
Michaelmas rent others continue to meet their engagements,
and at any rate to make a '• living profit ” out of the land.
Or, in other words, they are, by judicious practice, able to
obtain sufficient interest upon capital invested to pay rent,
rates, and household expenses. Taxes under Schedule A are
the landlord’s affair ; if a tenant’s income continues sufficiently
good to render him liable under Schedule B it is surely matter for
congratulation rather than complaint ; only let the tenant see
in his own interest that he is really liable for income tax.
Surveyors of taxes are wont to make fanciful demands, which
show powers of imagination, of which farmers are frequently
the victims. Those very important collectors of Imperial
revenue simply make their demand ; it rests with the farmer to
prove them in the wrong.

What we desire to see in the farmer is more business
aptitude in the conduct of his affairs. Practice that is tenta¬
tive, flexible, influenced by demands which are sound and
sufficiently stable to justify change and concessions on his part.
To enable him so to act that his landlord must deal fairly by
him in removing all restrictions from covenants of agreement
that are at all calculated to hinder him. For example, a
matter under discussion va. ih.Q Agricultural Gazette just now is
the profit still possible upon an acre of Wheat. The cost of
production is stated to be £6 7s., the value of produce

£ s. d .

34 bushels of Wheat at 3s. 9d., or 30s. per quarter ... G 7 6

1 ton straw . 4 0 0

10 7 6

Cost . 6 7 0

Profit . 4 0 6

By this statement it is obvious that a restriction in the sale
of straw would render a living profit impossible. Under high
culture in good deep rich mixed soil, it is possible to bring the
Wheat yield up to at least 40 bushels an acre with a pro¬
portionate increase in bulk of straw. Plenty of such corn land
has come down in rent to 15s. an acre, and in these cases a really
competent man is still prosperous. We refrain from giving
details of cost, because such statements are always open to
question, and it could serve no useful purpose to argue whether
any item of expenditure should be less or more. The main
question is all that is really important, and that appears to be
clear enough.

It has come to this in farming, that a f.'.rmer must cultivate
the right produce, and do it in the right way. The old easy¬
going times have departed never to return. The large farmer
must now be his own steward or bailiff, sticking closely to
business, giving his personal superintendence to every detail
of crop or stock, working in point of fact in downright earnest,
just like any other man of business. Why not, indeed ? Where

is the hardship ? We know a gentleman in trade, who five days
out of six is off to business by 8.30 a.m., only returning of an
evening in time for his dinner at seven. He has thousands of
artizans in his employment, and probably works harder than any
of them. Yery different to this was the life of the large farmer
of twenty years ago. One of them well known to us used to
hunt three days a week. An off-hand farm of some 400 acres
in charge of a competent bailiff was visited by the farmer for
an hour or two once a week or so. Yet profits poured into his
hands from it in such abundance as now seems like a fairy tale.
To such a man the loss of hunting, the having to devote the
whole of his time and strength to actual business, is undoubtedly
hard, but under stress of progress and competition the change
was bound to come. He is a wise man who resolves to make
the best of it, who is up and doing, resolutely setting himself to
combat and overcome difficulties to which a weaker man
succumbs, if necessary holding the plough himself, and thus
command the respect which all good men and true accord to
earnest effort and moral courage.

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

Custom tells even in the matter of sowing our layers of mixed seeds.
In some localities they are never sown with winter corn, but always,
without exception, with spring corn. No good reason that we have ever
heard of has been advanced for this custom, and from the extensive
failure of plant in spring-sown layers this year, it would appear that
there is considerable risk of failure when a spring drought sets in — not
necessarily a long drought, April showers fail us quite often enough to
render the matter worthy of serious attention, and it will be well if
more of such layers are sown upon winter corn fields than has been
done in the past. Mention is made of this now while so much winter
corn is in precisely the best possible condition for such sowings to be
done — that is to say, the corn plant is nicely visible above ground, and
the seeds may ba^own at once.

Acorns abound this year. They w'ell repay one for collection. _ By
doing so all risk of injury to cows or cattle from eating them is avoided,
and they can be stored for use both for pigs and sheep, for both of
which they are really invaluable. Sheep fatten upon them quite as fast
as they do upon Oats, and we have never heard any complaints of the
flavour or quality of the mutton being hurtfully affected in any way.
In a season of scarcity of food they are a great boon, as indeed they are
in any season.

Look now carefully to all drain outlets, to the ends of water furrows
in corn fields, so as to get water from drain and furrow quickly. Any
stoppage of the drains soon tells upon the corn plant, checking its
growth and causing it to lose colour. Land much infested with insect
larvEe may now advantageously be dressed with salt. We may mention
how highly beneficial salt has proved as a manure for all the Cabbage
tribe in the Essex experiments. The amount used was 3 cwt. of salt
and 2 cwt. nitrate of soda. The addition of the salt dressing to the
nitrate added greatly to bulk of crop.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamden Square, Loxdox,

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

Date.

9 A.M.

In THE Day.

Rain.

1893.

October.

j Barometer
at 32°, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday 22

30-218

53-5

52-9

S.W.

53-1

55-6

52-5

59-2

51-0

0138

Monday . . 23

30-450

44-1

43-3

S.W.

51-8

57-lj

37-7

89-9

35-4

—

Tuesday . . 24

30-440

48-6

44-7

S.W.

50-9

54-7

43-6

75-1

41-1

—

Wednesday 25

30-107

52-1

48-0

S.

50-3

56-0

46-9

61-5

42 6

0-053

Thursday . . 26

29-852

48-3

45-3

w.

50-8

54-6

44-9

96-9

41-6

—

Friday . . 27

29-986

42-2

39-7

w.

49-1

54-3

37-3

91-6

34-6

—

Saturday . , 28

29-966

52-5

49-6

S.W.

48-1

57-8

40-6

72-3

36-3

—

30-146

48-8

46-2

50-6

55-7

43-4

78-1

40-4

0191

REMARKS.

22nd. — Almost continuous rain from 6 A.ii. to 2 P.M. ; overcast till about 7 P.M.; and
cloudless from 8 p.m.

23rd.— Misty early, with sunshine ; brilliant from 9.30 to noon ; overcast after 1 P .M.
24th. — Overcast almost throughout, but one gleam of sun at 4 P.M. ; fine night.

25th.— Overcast all day; rain from 10 P.M. to midnight.

26th.— Almost cloudless morning, and the sun only occasionally obscured in afternoon.
27th. — Almost cloudless morning, cloudy at times in afternoon, bright night.

28th. — A little sun early ; overcast with occasional drizzle from 9 A.M. ; fair aftemoou
and evening.

A fine autumnal week.— G. J, Symons.

November 9, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

416

A GREAT deal ha? been written for and against — chiefly against
— Shakespeare’s assertion that the sufferings of a crushed
beetle may be equal to the pangs of an expiring giant. Recent
investigations in insect anatomy tend to prove that insects possess
a nervous system, and that allowing for their size and the general
structure of their bodies, they must have much more sensibility
to pleasure or pain than the majority of naturalists have hitherto
supposed. However that may be, I think all gardeners will agree
that the destruction of their insect enemies, which has from time
to time to be effected, ought to be managed so as to give no
needless pain. Our fruit trees are attacked by a variety of species
in different orders, but some of our very troublesome foes are the
caterpillars of moths which damage the buds, the leaves, and even
the flowers or immature fruit. Catering for their own benefit,
they fulfil their name by “ pilling ” or peeling whatever they
attack, and some of the smaller species do most harm by their
numbers and persistency. It is to be regretted, I may note, that
certain authors, either for the sake of swelling the list, or from
ignorance, have given a bad name to species that are comparatively
harmless.

That handsome moth, known as the Eyed Hawk (Smerinthus
ocellatus) is mentioned as an enemy of the Apple, and it is true
that its striped and horned caterpillar may be found on that tree,
but it prefers Willow or Poplar, and is never abundant enough to
do serious damage. An accusation has also been lodged against
the green and gold caterpillar of the Emperor (Saturnia Carpini),
but it is very seldom indeed discovered upon the Apple, as it
prefers Heath and the Thorns. With all deductions, there remain
far too many caterpillars against which precautions must be taken
to check their increase, and it is desirable to kill our enemies while
they are in a state of quiescence, whether as torpid, hybernating
caterpillars, or as unconscious chrysalids, or in the earliest or egg
stage. Hence the closing months of the year affords good oppor¬
tunity for efforts that will be rewarded next season by a healthy,
satisfactory growth of shoots, leaves, and fruit. The eggs of some
species may be washed off trees by the simple application of warm
water, others are removed by the operation of pruning. The use
of the wash, which has been often recommended, made from
petroleum and softsoap, will dispose of some hybernating cater¬
pillars from the trunks and branches, also chrysalids which may be
lodged in angles or in crannies.

Where we have reason to suspect that buds may contain larvae of
insects, it is advantageous to dredge them with soot and lime mixed
in equal proportions. It is probable a strong solution of Gishurst
compound will prove not only fatal to insects, but will destroy the
vitality of eggs it touches. At various periods during the autumn
numerous caterpillars descend from the trees and bushes to undergo
pupation in or upon the earth, and the winter should not be allowed
to slip away without some measures being taken to kill such
chrysalids as can be reached. Many are on the surface of the soil,
or just beneath it, and they can be extirpated by the removal and
burning of an inch or two of the soil round trees, with any growth
of grass or weeds that may be upon it. This is one means of
checking the troublesome winter moth caterpillar, Cheimatobia
brumata. Those that lie deeper in the earth may be reached by
forking, and then applying quicklime or gas lime which has been

No. 698.— VoL. XXVII., Third Series.

spread out and exposed for a month to the air, and will not then
injure the roots of the trees or the underground stems. Quassia
tea, made strong, is said to kill most chrysalids ; I am not sure of
this ; a soapy solution might also, by obstructing the pores through
which they obtain air, even underground.

Considerable attention has been called of late to the species
just mentioned, and especially to the fact that the plan of placing
a ring of some sticky substance round the trunks of the trees, to
impede the ascent of the female moths, is not the effectual remedy
once supposed, because some of them, though themselves wingless,
are carried upwards to the stems and branches by their male com¬
panions. Still, many may be stopped by this preventive measure,
and I think Miss Ormerod is right in her opinion that a better method
than daubing the tree itself is to place a hayband or rope, well
saturated with Stockholm tar mixed with grease, all round it,
quite close, but not touching. Owing to the warmth and long
continuance of the summer the winter moths were unusually
forward this year, emerging at the end of October and early in
November. It would be advisable, therefore, besides other pre¬
cautions, to shake the boughs, as the moths fall readily, and their
eggs should bo looked for in crevices of the bark and angles
amongst the branches. They have been detected on buds also. As
each female can deposit about two hundred, it is not surprising
that the caterpillars are abundant, and they do not seem to have
any notable parasitic foe. But some birds seek them out, the star¬
ling especially. In Germany and France the caterpillar of the
mottled umber (Hybernia defoliaria) is apt to defoliate the Apple.
It is, however, solitary, though the eggs are laid in patches by the
wingless females towards the end of the year ; it is very common
with us some seasons on Whitethorn and various trees, but is
seldom seen on the Apple. It would have to be dealt with in the
same way as the winter moth caterpillar should it visit the Apple
or Pear.

Upon these I have sometimes found caterpillars of the figure-
of-eight moth (Diloba cmruleo-cephala), but it is more frequent
on Whitethorn. Abroad they complain of the species as an
early enemy of the Apricot and Peach, for it is rather a hearty
eater. The eggs are laid at the base of lateral shoots by the end
of September usually, four or six together. Vigorous spraying
would probably remove them. No washes, however, will operate
upon those of the lackey moth (Bombyx neustria), which are not
uncommon upon the twigs of the Apple every season, and are
placed in rings, protected by a sort of varnish. The caterpillars
being exceptionally abundant during last May and Juno, it is likely
there was a larger deposit of eggs than usual subsequently, hence
the spirals of eggs should be sought and removed. The newly
hatched broods of caterpillars are often overlooked by the English
grower of fruit. In France the proprietor of an orchard is very
careful to inspect the twigs early in the season, and cut away the
webs enclosing the young colonies.

With regard to those caterpillars that live through the winter
socially, there is no excuse for the fruit grower if he neglects to
hunt up their nests ; fortunately for us the brown tail moth, so
injurious abroad, and the black-veined white butterfly have at
present ceased to trouble us. Last spring the small ermine (Hypono-
meuta padella) had numerous broods on the Apple, but owing to
the drought some of these perished ; still it is advisable to examine
the twigs for any of the new brood that may be waiting for next
spring. The eggs are laid during the autumn under a patch of
brownish green, which is much the colour of the tree, and the
young caterpillars remain under this without eating from October
to April. Amongst the chrysalids that may be destroyed now are
those of the codling moth (Carpocapse pomonana), for in our
country the greater number of these Apple pests quit the fruit
when it falls as soon as possible, and ascend the tree nearest at
hand, where they spin a little cocoon under the loose bark.
— Entomologist.

No. 2351.— VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

416

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ NoTember 9, 1893.

FEEDING PLANTS AND ENRICHING THE SOIL

IN THE AUTUMN.

CoxTiNUiNG my remarks on this subject from page 350 I will
in the present article deal principally with that portion of it which
treats of the feeding of plants growing in pots or tubs. I think
few will deny that much of the success achieved in the growth of
such depends to a great extent upon the manner in which this
phase of culture is conducted. Given equal conditions in other
respect, the gardener who feeds his plants the most liberally and
regularly on rational principles produces the best results. I say
rational principles advisedly, because it is quite possible — nay, easy
— to do irreparable mischief by applying liquid manures before the
soil is sufficiently permeated with roots to be benefited by them ;
or to give the liquid in too strong a state, and thus destroy the
medium through which nourishment is principally supplied to
plant life. When, however, roots are plentiful and active they
revel in a constant supply of fertilising food, under the influence
of which health and vigour is increased and maintained ; but
should the matter be neglected between the stages of growth
which intervene between the time when feeding begins and the
crop of flowers or fruit approach maturity a corresponding degree
of vigour is lost. Observant cultivators know well that the higher
the level of culture aimed at the more clearly is the slightest
neglect apparent.

The rapid strides towards perfection which have in recent years
been made in the growTh of plants in pots renders it necessary for
all who wish to maintain a position among the front rank of
cultivators to pay especial attention to feeding more or less
throughout the year. So long as the plants are not in a state of
comparative rest, do not show signs of excessive growth, or have
been recently repotted, few mistakes can be made by giving weak
applications of liquid manure. It is scarcely possible to say too
much in favour of the best chemical manures now freely advertised,
containing as they do the most important elements of plant food.
Thousands of grand plants are annually grown in small pots,
which, without the aid of such manures, I believe, it would be
impossible to produce in the same bulk of soil. Then there are
other instances in which large plants have to be kept in pots or
tubs for years without repotting ; with the help of these patent
manures, and occasional waterings with soot water or natural
liquid manures, they may be kept in excellent condition. I will
now endeavour to show how these general principles may be put
into practice in the growth of various plants.

Camellias and Azaleas do not, in my opinion, receive so much
assistance from chemical manures as they should do. The practice
of feeding well during the time growth is being made, and then
giving only clear water through the rest of the year, is even now
practised by many, and the result is that to keep the plants
so treated in a thriving condition much larger pots than are really
necessary have to be employed. Bud-dropping in Camellias, and
weak, thrip-infested growths on Azaleas, are often brought about
by starvation pure and simple, especially when the plants are grown
entirely in peat, in which they have a tendency to grow strongly
and rapidly exhaust the soil ; then, unless regular feeding is given,
slowly but surely they drift into an unsatisfactory state. Chemical
manures here come to the rescue. If given once a fortnight during
the summer, and once a manth during the winter, the best results
follow, even when the roots are much confined. Provided the
drainage is good, and the soil porous and sweet, these plants do not
require repotting nearly so often as they receive it if instead they
are fed regularly in the way indicated. Anyone who is sceptical on
this point can easily prove it for themselves by setting apart two
plants in an equally healthy condition, both having also plenty of
active roots. Let one be given a monthly application of chemical
manure, and an occasional dose of soot water, while the other
receives clear water only, or perhaps a few waterings with liquid
manure given at irregular times. If they will follow this course
from the time growth is completed till the flowering period I am
convinced they will entertain no doubt as to which is the better
plan to follow.

Again, note the difference between the massive trusses and vivid
colour of the flowers of Zonal Pelargoniums when chemical
manures are given and when they are not applied. Under some
circumstances, to give such manure in the autumn and winter
would result in strong growth and but little flower. When, how¬
ever, the plants have been properly prepared for winter work the
results speak for themselves. Given plants with short-jointed
growths, growing in small pots crammed with roots, place them in
light houses close to the glass, give abundance of air, and keep a
little heat in the hot-water pipes constantly, then even in winter
the plants rnay be kept well laden with bloom colour.

Bouvardias, Cyclamen, Primulas, Carnations, Euphorbias must
be well fed even at the dark season of the year if strong plants and

flowers are wanted. The amount of growth made will always
be, to a great extent, regulated by the heat, light, and water
which vegetation receives ; but the full benefit of such essentials
can only be obtained by plants which have within their reach the
chemical constituents needed to build up their growth. In dull
weather fewer applications of water are required. This shows
that the amount of nourishment drawn from the soil is small
indeed compared with that taken up during the prevalence of sun¬
shine, and seems to be Nature’s mode of balancing the amount of
growth made with that which the light and air are capable of
solidifying. Bearing these facts in mind, it is easy to see that our
cultural practices often err in the direction of neglecting to feed
plants during the dull season of the year for fear of inducing
sappy unripened growths. In bygone days, with old and dark
houses, and primitive methods of heating them, there may have
been good reasons for adopting what I term the starvation system ;
but with plants thinly disposed near the glass in the light airy
structures which fortunately are now the rule, a more liberal
system of winter-feeding is attended by vastly improved results. —
H. Dunkin. (To be continued.)

VINE CULTURE— A RETROSPECT.

Looking back to the days of Meredith of Garston, Hill of Keele,
and Henderson of Trentham, a trio of growers who doubtless
did a great deal in the matter of Grape culture, it seems to me that
with all the extended appliances we ought to have a better
knowledge of Vine growing. Those readers who can remember
even a quarter of a century back, and look now at the advantages
for Grape culture of the present day, must admit that we make
bad use of them if we do not have a more intimate knowledge of
the subject in question, and produce results in proportion. The
young men of former days never had an opportunity of seeing
Vines grown so extensively as they now are. I do not say that the
practice is much improved in private gardens, though even here
vineries have increased, the produce being sometimes sold to meet
expenses. But it is the extensive market growing establishments
that should send forth a number of expert hands

I have to credit the northern growers with producing the
largest berries in Grapes ; but I think southerners excel in weight
of crop, and possibly finish. If we could, as growers, increase the
size of individual berries at the same rate as we do the crop, what
a sight we should present to the public ! But it is not so, the fact
being no matter how correct are the conditions of the Vines
from which we obtain extra large berries, even when we crop
lightly, the results to the enthusiastic grower are disappointing.
True a perfect finish combined with full sized berries is a pleasing
sight, yet on estimating the weight of crop we still think we ought to
have better. I take it that in cropping we have made rapid strides,
and yet the Vines are kept in good bearing condition. Probably
the market man is always more or less disappointed at the selling
price of his best Grapes, the price not being in proportion to the
quality, inferior though still good fruit paying far better. There
seems to be a limit for shop trade as regard prices, thus at anything
under 2s. per lb , say Is. 9d., I can sell cwts. of fruit, whereas Ido not
sell pounds above ; this is in bulk say up to end of November. Then
Muscats are always wanted when not above 2s. fid. per lb. ; but as
one of my largest customers says, he fears now I have put up to
2s. 9d and Ss. per lb. it will be too much for him. High prices are
tempting, but though I treble the prices I have quoted before the
end of spring, it is in limited amounts, and the real trade is in good
Grapes at medium prices. Inferior, faulty Grapes are more than
ever a drug in the market, shops of any pretension not caring to
have them. With a more extended cultivation of the Vine and an
increased practical knowledge we can do what we should have
been afraid of in our early days.

I have refrained from dealing with the large bunches, as they
are of no practical use for the market man. Accidentally such
bunches do come, and I have them now hanging, Gros Colman up
to fi lbs., but I have not grown these specially, the Vine having its
full complement of bunches. To devote a Vine to special bunch
growing is always a failure. Take a gcod Vine, reduce to a few,
say three, four, or six bunches, and the weight in them would not
equal the ordinary number of bunches had they been left. Though
such bunches do finish well the money is wanting when they
come to be sold. I shall always credit the growing trade with
raising the standard of finish in shop Grapes, and those who have
any common goods have only to send to a market and the salesman
will quickly give him a very low price, and even then he does not
care for them. The aim of all Grape growers, be they large or
small, should be first to study the Vine itself, both root and rod,
and crop according as it will bear it. Varieties, of course, differ,
and these have to be noted. One season’s experience will not do all
this, it is a question of years. — Stephen Castle, F.R.H.S.

November 9, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

417

S

Cypripsdium Statterianum.

This is a richly coloured and very distinct Cypripedium. It is
the result of a cross between C. Spicerianum magnificum and C . vexil-
larium superbum, and when exhibited at the Drill Hall on Tuesday,
October 24tb, the Orchid Committee of the Royal Horticultural
Society awarded a first-class certificate for it. From a sketch of
the one flower which the plant bore the illustration (fig. 61) has
been engraved. The dorsal sepal is principally rosy purple and has
a distinct white tip and margin, the petals and lip being greenish
brown.

Cattleya Lord Rothschild.

Much interest was centred on a plant of Cattleya Lord
Rothschild which was exhibited at the Drill Hall, Westminster,
on Tuesday, October 4th, by Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans.
The plant in question bore magnificent flowers, and from one of
these the illustration (fig. 62, see page 425) has been prepared.
This Cattleya is a new hybrid, being the result of a cross between
C. Gaskelliana and C. aurea. The sepals and petals are large and
of a faint rosy mauve shade, but the lip is the most striking feature
in the flower. This is very large, of a rich purplish crimson shade,
with a crimped white margin, the throat and basal portion being
orange yellow veined white and magenta crimson. The flower is
sweet scented.

Odontoglossums.

Many plants that have made strong well-ripened growths will
be producing flower spikes. A watch must be kept for slugs at the
present time, for if they are allowed to exist a large number of
spikes may be ruined in a night. A little cotton wool placed
round the spike is an admirable plan, but the safest is to suspend
the plants from the roof until the spikes are firm and thus safe
from the ravages of these most troublesome pests. Keep a sharp
look oat for aphides, and eradicate them at once, for when they
are allowed to establish themselves upon the flower spikes they
soon injure and deform the blooms. I am no advocate for fumigat¬
ing these plants, but remove these insects by means of a soft brush
and a little weak tobacco watsr. Shading is often practised late in
the autumn by many growers, but ours was removed early this
year for the purpose of allowing those growths to become
thoroughly matured. The plants must not be allowed to suffer
by the want of water either at the roots or in the atmosphere.
Keep them close to the glass and admit air freely when
favourable, and the flower spikes will be stout and compact instead
of weak and slender. — Specialist.

WINTER CUCUMBERS.

In some gardens it is found to be a difficult matter to produce a
regular supply of good Cucumbers during the winter, and especially if
the necessary heat is not to be obtained from hot-water pipes. Where
all requirements are at hand, however, partial failure sometimes results.
There are several causes of failure — namely, sowing the seeds too late,
or rooting cuttings late if they are preferred, after treatment as regards
the growth of the plants, and attention to their roots.

If the plants are raised from seeds or cuttings they should be strong
and in good condition for planting by the middle of October at the
latest. If possible they ought to be grown in a house which affords
plenty of light. The soil must consist of one-half leaf mould and one-
half good sound loam well mixed together. Whether pipes be placed
under the bed or not, a hotbed composed of strawy litter and leaves
ought to be made up if room will permit. The soil when placed upon
the bed need only be so thick as to cover the manure, but where the
plants are to be planted mounds of soil must be formed, allowing one
barrowload to each plant. Avoid planting too closely, 5 or 6 feet
asunder will answer better than 3 feet. The plants should not be unduly
excited in the autumn. A sturdy short-jointed growth must be the aim
of the cultivator.

In dealing with the training of the shoots of Cucumber plants during
the summer I always like to pinch the side shoots at every joint, but in
the winter I prefer to leave three joints before pinching. The advantage
of planting a good distance asunder will be here apparent. The shoots
ought to be allowed plenty of room to grow in, affording light, and
giving solidity to them. Constant attention must be given to pinching
and tying the young growths. The prunings should be no more than
may be carried out in the attendant’s apron each week from a large-sized
house. If crowding of shoots occur, and wholesale thinning follows,
three weeks or a month’s dearth of Cucumbers results. Only a few

fruits may be left on the plants at one time ; each fruit as it becomes fit
must be cut off forthwith.

Additions of soil mixed the same as that recommended for planting
in may be placed, after being warmed, on each mound once a fortnight
as atop-dressing, and pressed down firmly. If this practice be regularly
carried out no feeding with liquid manure will be necessary till after
Christmas. The temperature of the house must be regulated according
to the state of the weather outside. A genial temperature should be
maintained, not too much moisture, especially in frosty weather, but
sufficient to keep the plants in good health and free from red spider.
Syringe the foliage well on fine days, not later than 2 P.M. Model and
Telegraph are good varieties for winter culture. — Geo. Garner.

WINTER TREATMENT OF VIOLETS.

Here the culture of Violets in the winter is made a speciality, two
pits, each 64 feet long, facing due south, and adjoining the outside
borders of the principal range of vineries, and three three-light frames

FIG. 61. — cypripedidm statterianum.

being devoted to their culture. In addition to these two or three
hundred plants are grown in 6-inch pots for standing on the side stages
in the conservatory and for intermixing with decorative plants in the
Castle. For some weeks after planting out our plants (single crowns)
early in May, in rows from 12 to 15 inches asunder, and the same
distance apart in the row, they made very little, if any, growth, notwith¬
standing the fact that they were watered every afternoon, and the
soil between the rows stirred from time to time with the Dutch hoe. By
continuing the above operations energetically, however, and keeping
the runners well pinched after free growth commenced, we have
been rewarded with fine “ many-crowned ” plants, every one of which
have been transferred to their winter quarters.

Prior to planting additional leaves were put into the pits and •well
trodden, following with a coating of short manure to the thickness of
about 2 inches, and over this about 9 inches of a mixture consisting of
five parts fairly good soil and one of short manure, the whole having
been passed through a half-inch sieve before being placed in the pits and
frames. The plants were taken up with good sized balls, the straggling
roots being cut back to the soil through which they pushed, and then
planted in rows about 1 foot asunder and at the same distance in the
rows. The plants in each succeeding row were set triangular, which
manner of planting affords more room for light and air to play amongst
them than if they were planted squarely — opposite each other — the soil
being preised firmly about the individual plants in planting. The
plants must not be put any deeper in the soil than they were before,
and keep them close to the glass without touching it. After planting we

418

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ NoTember 9, 1893.

afforded sufficient water to settle the soil, shadine: the plants for a few
days from sunshine, and damping them at closing time in the afternoon
daring the same period. Then the shading was dispensed with as
well as the syringing, and the sashes drawn off during favourable
weather and replaced at night, tilting them up a little in the absence of
frost.

The after treatment will consist in giving plenty of air on every
favourable opportunity that presents itself, guarding against excessive
damp, as the greatest evil which the cultivator of the Violet in unheated
pits has to contend with during the winter months, keeping the
runners persistently pinched, bad and damped off leaves being removed
at ithe same time, the soil scratched over with a pointed stick, and
giving tepid water at the roots when the condition of the soil renders
its application necessary. An occasional top-dressing of Thomson’s Vine
and plant manure before giving water will prove beneficial during the
next five months, being careful not to let it come in contact with the
leaves in strewing it lightly over the soil between the plants. As a
means of protecting the plants from injury by frost we cover the sashes
at night with Eddy’s “ dressed canvas,” to which cords are attached for
securing them in position, and small staples driven into the wall-posts at
intervals of about 5 feet. When severe frost is expected a few inches
thick of dry bracken are laid on between the glass and the canvas
covers.

The varieties we grow are Marie Louise, Patria, blue (very much like
the former, but of a deeper colour) ; De Parme, pale lavender colour ;
Comte de Brazza, large double white flowers ; Victoria Regina, deep
blue double flowers ; the two last mentioned being for spring flowering.
We also grow a few plants of The Czar, large blue flowers. In a fort¬
night we have gathered 200 large bunches of Marie Louise and Patria,
which varieties we find the best for autumn and winter flowering. —
H. W. Ward, Longford Castle.

PELARGONIUMS AT WINDSOR.

It would be a difficult matter to find a class of plants so universally
popular, or more deservedly so, than are Zonal Pelargoniums, The
amateur with his little greenhouse, and may be a frame, can have
them in bloom all the year round by a judicious insertion of cuttings
and assiduous attention to other details of their culture. But it is to
Zonal Pelargoniums under the guise of winter blooming plants as grown
by Mr. Thomas in the Royal Gardens, Windsor, to which these notes are
intended to call particular attention. The plants are now, when
beautiful flowers to brighten our homes are all too scarce, com¬
mencing to bloom. In floriferousness, brightness, and general utility
they are unrivalled, the “ Autumn Queen ” being unable to cope with the
brilliant hues of these flowers. The collection at Windsor is an extensive
one, and includes many, if not all, the finest varieties in cultivation. The
plants are flowered in 6-inch pots, and form at the present time a
dazzling display. One is liable when so much is heard of Cannell’s Pelar¬
goniums to think that it is at Swanley alone that they may be seen to
perfection. Such, however, is not the case, for the plants grown by Mr.
Thomas are equally healthy, and carry as many flowers as those of the
justly celebrated grower above mentioned. This will certainly be
acknowledged by all who are privileged to see those now under notice.
It will doubtless be interesting to many readers of the Journal to know
what varieties are the best in this collection, both for habit and
distinctiveness.

The selection cannot be opened with a better or more useful kind
than Miss Gordon, which is purplish red in colour with a clearly defined
white eye. The pips are large and of perfect shape. A free blooming
semi-double scarlet is found in La Bruant, the habit of which is very
fine. Only one single white variety appears to be grown, and by the
way this is blooming none other is required. Queen of the Whites
justifies its name, for the colour is of the purest, the shape of the best,
and the trusses amongst the largest. The habit, too, is excellent, dwarf
and sturdy, and carrying its chaste flo vers just clear of the healthy green
leafage. A very beautiful deep rose is Kate Turner, and Freiza may be
considered one of the very best of the scarlets. The pips are of exceed¬
ingly rich colour, and contour of the truss leaves nothing to be desired.
Gloire Lyonnaise is a very beautiful deep rose-coloured flower, and for
a pure salmon nothing more beautiful or more useful could be desired
than Mrs. F. G. Hill, The truss is exceptionally large and perfect in
form. Eiffel Tower is a double rose-hued variety of much merit.
La Cygne is a splendid double white, and Madame Thibaut a grand
double pink. One of the very best in the collection is A. Grisau. The
pips, which are rather over the medium size, are deep pink in the centre,
and have a broad white margin, which, whilst greatly enhancing its
beauty , renders it remarkably showy and attractive. A delicate rose-
tinted variety of great beauty is Luther de Medluc, and John Fellowes
is a grand scarlet.

Lady Russell is a variety which attracts universal opinion, the color
being of a beautiful rose with a prominent white eye. Another pink <
a high order of merit is Leather Bell. The pips are rather small!
size but of perfect shape, as also is the truss. In colour it is a shac
deeper than Lady Russell, and is totally distinct in habit. Both ai
worthy a place in any collection. Lady Reed is one of the most charn
mg. The petals are white at the upper parts whilst the lower is a cler
rose, which produces a striking effect. The truss is of medium size bv
perfect in contour. The dwarf habit of Louisa Penith is a great recon
mendation to an already good variety. The rosy red coloured trussi

stand sturdily out from the foliage of the plants, which are of excep¬
tional dwarfness. F. V. Raspail stands unrivalled amongst the doubles.
The pips are large, and the colour of the most vivid scarlet. A good
double rose is found in Dr. Thousent, the flowers of which are of medium
size and the trusses large. The silver variegated foliage of Chelsea Gem
is very striking amongst the other varieties, the flowers, too, being
attractive. Amongst the dwarfest is Heroine, a double scarlet, and, as a
good companion for the two previous named, Madame Thibaut might be
named. The growth of the plants is singularly alike, and the trio is
unquestionably a good one. The list cannot be closed without reference
being made to a very handsome flesh-coloured seedling, of which Mr.
Thomas is wisely taking much care, for it will undoubtedly be an ac¬
quisition in a class of plants which is already rich in grand varieties
and superb colours. — H. J.

Mr. Mawley’s Analysis of 1893.

In support of my statement (page 384) that the analysis cannot be
said throughout to be mathematically correct, I should like to give
two typical instances. Viewing the fact that the analysis is said to
be deduced from the experience of several years, they are fair instances
in support of my argument. In the few remarks I add I have the
agreement of others, who are fully as experienced as either Mr. Mawley
or myself.

Madame Hoste is a beautiful Rose, which has been well known to all
of us for some years. It is in Mr. Mawley’s analysis of 1890. It is
there given as No. 25, and placed in analysis as exhibited an average of
seven times. Last year it was shown eight times, and Mr. Mawley has
it still low down. No. 26 and 7’9, working on its actual exhibits. This
year, although the Rose has been in the analysis since 1890, all these
previous facts and figures are ignored, and the figure of twenty-one
exhibits in 1893 is taken as the correct average for a series of years.
Can this be called mathematically correct? I have not one word to say
against the Rose, but I take exception to this fresh start and unreal
position given to it, as 1893 was not a typical year for it. The
Rose being one with light petals, the heat of this year was not
really favourable to it. How it only appeared in eight winning boxes
last year is surprising, as 1892 was eminently favourable to its growth.
That it happened to be shown in twenty-one winning boxes in 1893 I
look on simply as mere chance.

In the same way Ernest Metz has been exhibited in winning boxes
for some years ; it has been in the N.R.S. schedule in a special class
since 1891. I cannot tell how long previous to this Mr. Mawley has had
his eye on it, but the Rose is not in his analysis of 1890. Last year it
was placed in the analysis as an average of 12 (on previous per¬
formances, I suppose), but this year previous performances are ignored,
and 30 is given as its “average,” but apparently solely on the exhibits
of 1893. Is this mathematically correct ? It is well here to recall the
fact that Mr. Mawley has altered his system of working his analysis I
think more than once ; that which he now thinks infallible he may
hereafter find a flaw in. It is also worth mentioning that an analysis
which may work satisfactorily in regard to Dahlias and Chrysan¬
themums, of which apparently hundreds of new varieties are produced
annually, need not necessarily be of equal value in regard to Roses,
of which very few new varieties are thought worthy of attention.
Finally, although Mr. Mawley may think “crude figures” to be matters
of trifling importance, we in the City have a theory which hitherto has
been found to work out mathematically correct, and it is that we like to
have our accounts and analysis worked by crude figures in preference to
having them changed in any way. — Charles J. Grahame, Croydon.

[We stated that in our opinion the results as given by Mr. Mawley
were mathematically correct as deduced from the elaborate and pains¬
taking system adopted in their preparation, and we were confirmed in
this opinion by a gentleman of world-wide fame, whose life has been
spent in elaborating deductions as true as he can represent them from
ponderous masses of crude figures. Mr. Mawley can have no objection
to a fair examination of his work, but he very properly objects to being
charged with “ cooking,” a rough city method of expression in this
reference that is not merited, and which does not meet with general
approbation.]

Lord Penzance’s Hybrid Briars.

I HAVE to acknowledge Mr. Charles J. Grahame’s allusion to a
previous paragraph of mine on page 396. If he reads attentively Sir
Walter Scott’s “ Lady of the Lake” he will find that the Eglantine is
a native of the Trossachs Woods, which I recently saw in all the glory
of their autumnal hues. It also grows wild in the woods of Galloway,
as I can testify from personal observation. I have a vigorous specimen
of the Sweet Briar Rose growing in front of my manse which, during
the months of July and August, is a mass of pink blossoms, and is at
present perfectly covered with its beautiful berries. It was, many years
ago, transplanted from a wood in the parish, which overhangs the sea.

November 9, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

419

and where wild Roses and Honeysuckle grow most luxuriantly, the
latter climbiag up the trees to a height of 20 feet,

I am much obliged to Mr. Grahame for the additional information
he gives me regarding the Hybrid Briar Roses of Lord Penzance. It
is interesting to learn that the names of those Roses have been taken for
the most part, as Mr. Grahame indicates, from the immortal romances
of the “ Wizard of the North.” I recently had the pleasure of meeting
with a venerable daughter of his much-loved amanuensis, Mrs. Laidlaw,
and talking to her in Edinburgh on horticultural subjects, in which she
is much interested. She had come all the way from Inverness to the
Scottish capital in order to be present (at the age of eighty-four) at the
Patti concert. My kind hostess on that occasion was a daughter of the
late Rev. Dr, Nathaniel Paterson, of Glasgow, author of “The Manse
Garden,” an interesting and instructive work of the last age, written by
an intimate friend and associate of Sir Walter Scott.

The names which Lord Penzance has selected for his Roses are com¬
plimentary to Scotland, and indicate his reverence for the genius of our
greatest novelist, who was, like all men of poetic tendency and artistic
nature, a great lover of flowers. — David R. Williamson.

PLANTS IN SEASON.

Salvia Gk^hami.

Among the many beautiful varieties of Salvias that flower at this
period of the year, I think none are more worthy of recognition than
S. Grahami. Though not so showy as the brilliant scarlet of S. splendens,
or the soft rose of S. Bethelli, it is nevertheless one of the most useful
of the whole genus. Being very dwarf and compact in habit, it is
admirably adapted for arranging amongst various other greenhouse
plants. It has an extraordinarily free-flowering character, producing its
long racemes of flowers all through the autumn and winter. Abundance
of manure water should be supplied whilst it is flowering.

Ruellia macrantha.

Although one of the best and most beautiful winter flowering plants
in cultivation, this Ruellia has unfortunately been so very much neg¬
lected as to be scarcely ever met with. In habit and character it is
very similar to Thrysacanthus rutilans and Centropogon Lucyanus.
The beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers, which are produced in great
profusion from the axils of the leaf, are of a rosy purple colour, and last
a long time in perfection. Propagation may be effected by cuttings, which
should be inserted in sandy soil, and placed under a hand-glass. When
well rooted they should be placed in small pots, using a mixture of
good turfy loam and leaf soil in equal proportions, with a small amount
of fibry peat and sharp sand. The plants ought then be grown in a
stove, and potted as occasion requires. I trust these few timely remarks
may be the means of reinstating this most useful and showy Ruellia
into every establishment where winter flowering plants are in demand,
as no collection can be considered complete without it.

Begonia John Heal.

This charming plant possesses sufficient attractions to warrant its
admission into every garden. For arranging with the various occu¬
pants of the intermediate house at this season I know of nothing to
compete with it, owing to its dwarf habit and floriferous character. To
grow these plants successfully the tubers should not be started too
early. This is a very important point to bear in mind. The best plan
is to let them grow gradually and without much forcing. After they
are fairly started the plants should be placed into small pots and put in
an intermediate temperature. Apply water judiciously till after
the roots have taken full possession of the soil, when it may be supplied
with greater freedom.

Good peaty loam, leaf soil, and sharp sand will form an excellent
compost for the plants. Green fly and mealy bug are particularly
troublesome, more especially the latter, consequently a sharp watch
should be kept, and immediately the least signs of it are detected means
must be taken to exterminate it, for if it is once allowed to become
fairly established it is useless to expect satisfactory results. The best
method of destroying mealy bug is to pick it off with a fine pointed
stick, as the plants are very impatient of any insecticide being used on
them. I feel sure where once this Begonia has a fair trial it will not fail
to give satisfaction, — G, Paerant, AsKly Lodge Gardens, Ruglij.

PARTICULARS ABOUT PEARS,

Would Mr. Molyneux, Mr. Luckhurst, or others of your corre¬
spondents, kindly state their experience of the following Pears —
Doyenn^ du Comice, Fondante d’Automne, Beurr6 Superfin, Madame
Treyve, Durondeau — as regards the particulars given below, the
locality of cultivation being fairly favourable for their growth 1

1, Are they of good hardy constitution ?

2, Are they good, fertile, and tolerably reliable as bearers ?

3, Do they succeed well in the “ bush ” form 1

As regards flavour and high quality I do not think either of them
has been surpassed. For richness of flavour and honied juiciness I
have always regarded the Gratiola Pear as being unequalled ; but this,
of course, is a matter of individual taste. — W. M. B.

Events of the Week. — As mentioned below, the Committees of
the Royal Horticultural Society will meet at the Drill Hall, West¬
minster, on Tuesday, November llth. Numerous Chrysanthemum
Shows will also be held during the ensuing week, and a list of some of
these will be found on another page.

- The Weather in London. — The weather in the metropolis

continues cold but dry. Frosts have occurred on several nights recently,
although not very severe. At the time of going to press it is rather
cold, the wind being in a north-easterly direction.

- Hailstorms, but of short duration, were prevalent on Tues¬
day in the South of England, and we hear of considerable damage
being done at Dover.

- The Weather in the North. — The weather during the

past week has been very changeable, dry and wet days alternating
Friday was very especially wet and cold throughout. Frosts of from
2° to 8° have been recorded every morning, and there seem indications
of a spell of cold weather. — B. D., N. Perthshire,

- Testimonial to Me. Manning. — After consulting Mr.

Manning’s wishes it has been decided that the presentation shall take
the form of an illuminated address and a dining-room suite with clock
and ornaments to match. The presentation waits Mr. Manning’s con¬
venience for a few weeks, he being at present away from London.

- Royal Horticultural Society. — The next meeting of the

Committees will be held in the Drill Hall, James Street, Victoria Street,
Westminster, on Tuesday, November llth, when special prizes for
Chrysanthemums will be offered. At three o’clock Mr. R. Parker,
F.R.H.S., will deliver a lecture on Chrysanthemums.

- Prizes at the Gardening and Forestry Exhibition.—

Many gardeners will be glad if, through your medium, a request may be
made that the prizes won by the successful exhibitors be paid without
delay. Many gardeners were put to a considerable expense in getting
fruit and flowers to London to help to make up the Exhibition. In the
schedule it states “ that all prize money will be paid within a month
of the exhibitions,” and now that the officials have had their banquets I
think it time that the prizewinners were paid what is due to them. —
Exhibitor.

_ Gardening Appointments. — Mr. S. Clarke, for the last

three years head gardener at Airfield, Dundrum, Co. Dublin, has been
appointed head gardener to T. R. Bolitho, Esq., Trengwainton, Penzance,
Cornwall. We understand Mr. Arthur Pope succeeds Mr. G. Bartle as
head gardener at Allington Hall, Grantham, Lincolnshire, the seat
of J. E. Welby, Esq.

- Browallia macrantha.— Mr. Elsey, gardener to Mrs.

Carlisle, showed in a group of plants at Ewell last week several specimens
of this Browallia. They were from 15 to 16 inches in height, well
foliaged and flowered. The blooms are large, open, five-lobed, and very
much the colour of the bracts of Bougainvillea spectabile. It is easily
raised from cuttings put in during the spring, and makes an excellent
autumn and winter house plant. — A.

- Primula Chelsea Rose.— Mr. Buss, gardener to A. W.

Aston, Esq ., also showed at E well a dozen plants of a four-leaf single
and lovely flesh pink Primula under the above name. The plants were
well done, the flowers large and well fringed, the foliage of the pale
green colour, and in all presents a very beautiful variety. A.

_ The Scilly Isles Daffodils. — A Western contemporary

says that the exceptionally dry and fine weather at the Isles of Scilly
threatens to seriously disarrange the coming flower season. ihe
weather is still so fine and mild that the crops in t e open are
coming on rapidly, and unless cold weather sets in to check t em e
flowers will be in the market considerably before those from the
foreing houses are usually ready. The first small consignment of
yellow Narcissus (Soleil d’Or) from the open field was forwarded last
week, while very few of the bulbs intended for forcing are yet put in
the houses.

420

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Korember 9, 1893.

- Bullfinches and Buds. — Mr. J. Hiam writes : — “ It may be as

well to remind fruit growers, in districts where these birds are numerous,
that for about six weeks they are very easily taken in trap cages or with
birdlime, and turned to account as pets for cage birds or in aviaries,
instead of shooting them in the spring.”

- Eucharis amazonica. — Lovers of this beautiful flower will

be pleased to know that the Eucharis is admirably grown by Mr. George
Ward, London Road, Bishop’s Stortford. In looking over his houses of
Eucharis the other day I was amazed to find the plants in such health
and carrying large numbers of flowers, which it would be useless for me
to describe. — Eucharis.

- Property in Mushrooms. — At the instance of the West¬
moreland County Council, all the County Councils in England are
having brought before them a resolution in favour of the law being
so altered that persons who trespass upon land in search of Mushrooms
and other spontaneous growths will be liable to conviction, as in the
case of stealing cultivated roots. Great annoyance and indirect damage
to farmers is caused by such trespasses at present, and there is nothing
in the criminal law to prevent it.

- The International Horticultural Society which was

founded at the recent Congress of horticulturists held at Chicago has
made further progress. The chief object of the Society is to facilitate
the exchange of plants, seeds, and books. The following officers have been
nominated : — President, Mr. P. J. Berchmans ; Vice-President, Mr. Henry
L. de Vilmorin ; Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. George Nicholson, the
Curator of Kew Gardens. We learn, however, that Mr. Nicholson is
unable to undertake the work that this office would impose upon him.

- A New Rose-coloured Calla. — A correspondent sends us

the following extract, written by a Dutch bulb firm, referring to the
new Calla with rose-coloured spathes which appears to be now attract¬
ing attention : — “ This Calla, received from Africa, represents an
entirely new type of Richardias, the leaves being lanceolate instead of
sagittate, as in all species hitherto known. The spathe is of a very
elegant shape, and the colour is white tinted with rose, especially well
marked on the outside. The bud shows a rose colour, which after¬
wards changes into white with a rose tint.” The provisional name of
De Waal’s Richardia has been adopted until botanists decide its Latin
designation.

- Summary of Meteorological Observations at Hodsock

Priory, Worksop, Notts, October. — Mean temperature of month,
50'2°. Maximum on the 16th, 67’0°; minimum on the 30th, 27 2°.
Maximum in the sun on the 1st, 120'5° ; minimum on the grass on the
31st, 19'2°. Mean temperature of air at 9 A.m,, 50’5° ; mean temperature
of soil 1 foot deep, 50-6°, Nights below 32°, in shade two, on grass six¬
teen. Total duration of sunshine in the month, 120 hours, or 37 per
cent, of possible duration. We had three sunless days. Total rainfall,
1’69 inch. Rain fell on thirteen days. Average velocity of wind,
81 miles per hour. Velocity exceeded 400 miles on one day, and fell
short of 100 miles on seven days. Approximate averages for October : —
Mean temperature, 48 ’1° ; sunshine, eighty-three hours ; rainfall,
2‘73 inches. Another warm, bright, and dry month. None of the last
twelve Octobers had as much sunshine, and only two out of the last
seventeen had a higher mean temperature, and none of them had as
high a mean daily maximum. — J, Mallender.

- Technical Education in Horticulture. — The Council

of the Scottish Horticultural Association having been again allocated a
portion of the residue grant by the Town Council of the City of Edin¬
burgh has arranged a course of lectures on the “ Vegetable Garden,”
to be delivered during the ensuing winter and spring. The scientific
and practical aspects of the subjects chosen will be treated of by
eminent authorities, and the lectures will be free to all interested in the
advancement of horticulture. The introductory lecture will be given
by Mr. M. Dunn, Dalkeith, “ The Chemistry of the Vegetable Garden ”
will be treated in six lectures by Mr. W. Ivison Macadam, F.R.S.E.,
F.I.C., F.C.S. “ Physics as Applied to the Vegetable Garden,” in three
lectures, by Mr. A. N. Macalpine, consulting botanist to the Highland
and Agricultural Society, “ The Chemistry of the Soils : The old and
new Doctrines,” in two lectures, by Dr. Hunter, Minto House. Mr. A, H.
Scott, The Gardens, Cambusdoon, Ayr ; Mr. Williamson, Tarvit, Cupar-
bife; Mr. Loney, Marchmont, Duns; Mr. P. W. Fairgrave, Dunkeld,
and Mr. Temple, Carron House, Falkirk, will lecture on the practical
cultivation of different crops. Mr. Robert Laird, 17, South Frederick
Street, Edinburgh, is the Honorary Secretary,

- Large Gourds. — Messrs. Sutton & Sons write:— “We note

in a paragraph appearing on page 400 of the Journal of Horticulture
reference is made to a Gourd weighing 30 lbs. It may interest your
readers to know that we have one grown by a customer of ours (Lieut.-
Col. E. Morrell, Mistley Hall, Manningtree) weighing 142 lbs., and
from the same plant others were cut weighing 112 lbs., 100 lbs,, 85 lbs.,
besides others of smaller weight. The variety is our Mammoth Gourd.”

_ Weather in Scotland. — The total rainfall for October was

4 239 inches, which fell on twenty-eight days ; greatest fall on any
one day 0 887 inches, on the 24th. Drains were first observed running
for the season on the 25th. Frost was registered on two nights — the
30th, 24-8° ; and the Slst, 22-6°. The warmest day was the 15th, when
63° were registered ; and the 16th was the warmest night, with 54'9°.
Mean maximum, 55 6°; mean minimum, 39-3°. — G. McDouGALL,
Stirling.

- The Floral Sketch Book. — The Council of the Royal

Horticultural Society have granted special permission to Mr. John
Weathers, Assistant-Secretary, to publish his plant sketches. Mr.
Weathers informs us that he proposes to publish under the above title
five large drawings each month of as many new, rare, or interesting
plants. Each plant figured will be fully described, and historical and
cultural notes will also be given. The first number will be ready by
January 6th, 1894, and the price will be Is.

- Royal Meteorological Society, — The meetings of the

Society, which will be held by kind permission of the Council of the
Institute of Civil Engineers, at 25, Great George Street, Westminster,
will for the future commence at 8 p.m. At the ordinary meeting on
Wednesday, the 15th inst., the following papers will be read: — “The
Great Drought of 1893, and Its Attendant Meteorological Phenomena,”
by Frederick J. Brodie, F.R.Met.Soc. “ Thunder and Hail Storms over
England and t’ne South of Scotland, July 8th, 1893,” by William
Marriott, F.R.Met.Soc.

- Potato Growing Experiments in Scotland, — The

Dalkeith Agricultural Society has, so we learn from an agricultural
contemporary, carried out some interesting experiments by means of
prizes offered to growers to ascertain the heaviest cropping sorts of
Potatoes, and what manures are best to be employed to obtain largest
results. The first prize was awarded to a crop of 12 tons 7 cwts. 3 qrs.
of sound Bruce to the acre, grown with 20 tons of manure, 4 cwts. kainite,
4 cwts. supers in drill, 1^ cwt. nitre when through, and IJ cwt. when
earthed up. The second prize went to an acre of Regents weighing 12 tons
6 cwts. 3 qrs., of which 10 tons 7 cwts, were good, 1 ton 12 cwts. 1 qr.
small, and 7 cwts. diseased. This crop received 24 tons of farmyard
ma jure to the acre, besides 1 cwt. of dissolved bones and 1 cwt. of nitre
in the drill,

- A FEW Pretty Plants. — At the little Show at Ewell last

week I noted some plants of more than usual interest at this season
of the year. Mr, Whiteman had Salvia splendens Bruanti in fine form,
large bushes 3^ feet through, beautifully flowered, and in 9-inch pots.
Then he also had several plants of Salvia Pitcheri, each carrying good
spikes at about 3 feet in height of intensely rich blue flowers. It is a
most effective plant at this time of the year. The roots are tuberous,
and require the same treatment as does Salvia patens. Aralia Chabrieri
is a Croton-like plant. This was represented by a specimen 3 feet in
height, very handsome indeed, and because of its long narrow pendant
leafage it makes a peculiarly charming table plant. The same grower
had Giant Red Capsicum in fine form, plants some 2 feet in height and
heavily fruited. It is for exhibition or for sideboards a most effective
variety. — A. D.

- Carex japonica. — This beautiful perennial Rush-like plant

is one which should be grown extensively by all who have to carry out
dinner-table decorations. Its slender variegated leaves, which attain a
length of from 1 to 2 feet, are extremely light and graceful in appearance ;
in fact I know of no cultivated plant to equal it in this respect, which
renders it an ideal plant for the above purpose, and thus enables the
decorator to produce a light wavy surface without impeding the view
across the table. The cultural requirements of this Carex are extremely
simple, as it thrives well in almost any soil, succeeds in either a cool or
warm structure, and requires but little root room, excellent examples being
produced in 3-inch pots. Propagation is easily effected by root division,
by which means a good stock may quickly be worked up. Those who
are unacquainted with this plant should lose no time in obtaining it,
and I feel sure they will consider I have not over-estimated its intrinsic
merit. — H. D.

November 3, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

421

- The Eoyal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. — At the recent

meeting of the Committee of the Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund,
W. Marshall, Esq., in the chair, the following special receipts were
announced : — Mr. W. Elphinstone, The Gardens, Shepley Hall, Derby,
opening the gardens during the summer, £11 Is. 6d. ; Mr. J. H.
Vallance, local Secretary, Bristol, legacy, £3 Ss. ; Mrs. Bowerman,
Hackwood Park, sale of flowers, £1 6s. ; Mr. J. Plowman, Woodstock
Gardens, Long Sutton, box, 10s. ; Mr. G. Tubb, Minley Manor, Farn-
borough, box. £1 2s. 2d. ; Miss Barron, Chiswick, box, £1 lls. ; Mr. F. A.
Burbury, Highbury, Birmingham, box, £1 IGs. ; Mr. J. B. Stevenson,
Chine Cottage, Bournemouth, box, Gs. 5d. ; and Mr. C. Sutton, The
Gardens, Chevening Park, Sevenoaks, Gs. 5d. The Secretary reported
the receipt of £100 from Mr. N. Sherwood (Messrs. Hurst & Sons) as a
jubilee celebration gift, and a hearty vote of thanks was passed to this
generous supporter of the fund. The death of Mr. Hugh Low of Clapton,
a member of the Committee, was alluded to, and a resolution of condolence
with Mrs. Low on the great loss she and the Committee has sustained,
was passed.

- Gardening and Forestry Exhibition. — Among the

awards made at the recent Gardening and Forestry Exhibition, Earl’s
Court, for permanent exhibits, we noted the following names : — Garden¬
ing section. — Gold medal : Messrs. J. M. Bennett & Sons, Ardwick,
Manchester. Silver-gilt medals : Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading ;
Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Crawley, Sussex ; Messrs. Ransomes, Sims, and
Jefferies (Limited), Orwell Works, Ipswich ; Messrs. Joseph Owen
and Sons, 67, St. Anne Street, Liverpool ; Messrs. Conway G. Warne
(Limited), Weston-super-Mare ; Messrs. F. Rosher & Co., King’s Road,
Chelsea; Mr. G. W. Riley, 81, Dnlwich Road, Herne Hill, S.E. ; Miss
Sarah Sprules, Wallington, Surrey ; and Messrs. Chaffey Bros. (Limited)
35, Queen Victoria Street, E.C. The forestry section included — silver
medals : His Royal Highness Prince Christian, K.G. ; Mr. John Mickie,
Her Majesty’s Forester; and Colonel Beddome, F.R.H.S.

- The Winter Moth. — Mr, J. Hiam, The Wren’s Nest, Astwood

Bank, near Eedditch, observes, “ This pest is making its appearance in
strong force, as was to be expected after such an exceptionally favour¬
able season for developing, and if grease-banding is to be resorted to
instead of Paris green spraying in the spring no time should be lost. It
may be well to call to memory that it was after the dry season of 1887,
that 1888 and 1889 were so disastrous from the ravages of these cater¬
pillars, and the orchards and plantations were stripped of truit and
foliage. We have obtained much intimate knowledge since then of the
habits of our common enemy, and we know that the female moths may
be stopped if grease-banding is properly done. Egg-laying is chiefly
carried out from the middle to the end of November, and if this month
and December are mild a great increase in numbers next year will
inevitably follow. We read in the summer that in Devonshire much
damage was done from caterpillars, and it would be interesting to know
if they were Cheimatobias or what kind ? ”

- Open Spaces. — At the monthly meeting of the Metropolitan

Public Gardens Association, 83, Lancaster Gate, W., the Earl of Meath,
the Chairman, presiding, it was announced by him, as reported in the
Journal of Horticulture last week, page 400, that the Prince of Wales had
consented to become the patron of the Association and had contributed
ten guineas to its funds. The Secretary also mentioned that a donation
of £50 had been received from a member for the erection of a handsome
drinking fountain in St. Thomas’s Square Garden, Hackney ; that the
necessary consents had been obtained for the daily opening to the public
of the Tower Wharf, instead of twice a week ; that the Battersea Vestry
had agreed to form a riverside recreation ground at a cost of over £2000,
towards which the Association had offered to subscribe £1000 ; and that
the laying out of Victoria Park Cemetery and the Pern Road Triangle
was being satisfactorily carried on. It was agreed to offer to lay out the
churchyards of St. Matthew and St. James’s, Bethnal Green and Ion
Square, Hackney Road, if their maintenance were secured, and if
money for the payment of wages to those in want of work were forth¬
coming, the Association providing the balance, about one-half, of the
total cost. It was also decided to offer to lay out Albion Square^
Dalston, Bessborough Gardens, S.W., and Guy’s Hospital disused
burial ground, S.E., if transferred to the local authorities for mainte¬
nance ; to offer trees for the Albert Embankment and other thorough¬
fares ; to once more endeavour to prevent the Physic Garden, Chelsea,
from being sold for building purposes ; to promote the acquisition of
five acres of land once forming part of Wandsworth Common ; and to
offer to bear the expenses of opening to the public a playground
in Clerkenwell, when not used by the scholars.

- Raspberries in October. — Mr. W. Gabbitas, Harrogate,

writes : — “ I noticed several correspondents in the Journal of Horti¬
culture (page 399) mention gathering Raspberries and Strawberries in
the south, but I have not heard of anyone securing a second crop so
far north as Harrogate. It might, therefore, be of interest to some
readers to know that 1 have to-day (November 4th) gathered several
ripe Raspberries and more are about half matured. They are on the new
canes of this summer’s growth. We have also been gathering Scarlet
Runner Beans until a week since.”

- The Total Rainfall for October at Abbots Leigh,

Haywards Heath, Sussex, was 4 26 inches, being 0 31 inch above
the average. The heaviest fall was 1'45 inch, on the 11th. Rain fell
on nineteen days. The maximum temperature was 64°, on the 2l8t ;
the minimum 27°, on the 31st. Mean maximum in the shade, 57 29° ;
mean minimum, 42 26° ; mean temperature, 49 74°, about 4° above the
average. The frost on the morning of the 31st is the first we have had
to injure tender plants, and up till then Runner Beans and Dahlia
blooms have been as fine as they have been this year. Some good Roses
were gathered that morning, and Chrysanthemums on south front of
house are still uninjured, showing their usefulness. — R. I.

- The Weather Last Month. — Mr. W, H. Divers, Ketton

Hall Gardens, Stamford, remarks : — “ October was changeable, but
chiefly fine after the 7th with a fair amount of sunshine. We had seven¬
teen bright days, two of which were clear. The wind was in a westerly
direction twenty-nine days. Total rainfall was 2-48 inches, which fell
on fifteen days, the greatest daily fall being 0'69 inch on the 7th ; the
total is 0'46 inch below the average for the month. Barometer — highest,
30 45 at 9 P.M. on 23rd ; lowest, 2916 at 1 p.m. on 4th. Temperature
milder than usual — highest in shade, 67° on 16th and 21st ; lowest,
29° on 31st ; lowest on grass, 21° on 31st. Mean daily maximum, 58-54°;
mean daily minimum, 42 54° ; mean temperature of the month, 50 58°.
Tender flowers, such as Dahlias and Heliotrope were not killed by frost
until the 3l8t. It has been a very fine autumn for Wheat sowing. The
garden spring ran 8| gallons per minute on 31st.”

- The Weather in Hertfordshire. — Mr. E. Wallis, The

Gardens, Hamels Park, Buntingford, Herts, writes: — “The weather
during the past month has been all that the horticulturist could possibly
desire. There has been an abundance of rain, which has not in the least
been a hindrance to outdoor work. The weather has also been of a
very mild and open character. Taking the month all through, it has
doubtless been one of the best Octobers ever known, and not until the
morning of 31st was there sufficient frost to destroy such tender plants
as Coleus and Iresine, when 7° were registered. Taking the year up to
the present doubtless few gardeners have had such good all-round crops
during any other season. Rainfall on fourteen days during the past
month. — Maximum in any twenty-four hours was 1-06 on the 8th ;
minimum, 0 02 on the 22nd. Total during the month, 3 06, against 3-90
of 1892.”

PE AES VERSUS PEACHES.

In answer to Mr. Molyneuxonpage 373, the figures previously quoted
were those affixed to the fruit in the shop windows, and I considered
that the grower could not be so badly treated when such a price was
asked by the fruiterer. I could mention several instances around me
where small growers have realised handsome prices for Pears, owing to
their taking their produce round to the villa residences and so doing
away with the middleman. Was it altogether a question of money
which “C.” had in his mind when he wrote the article on page 259 ? If
so, I did not quite look at it in that light alone, but thought he referred
to those persons who have private establishments.

Even if the market grower only was to be studied, I maintain that
a wall covered with cordon Pears, well selected, and liberally fed with
manure water during the summer, the result being magnificent fruits,
would eventually prove far more profitable than Peaches in many parts
of Lancashire. It is useless to expect to realise the best prices for
unthinned fruit. There can be no doubt that where Peaches are known
not to succeed that they might wisely be done away with, planting
Pears in their stead. “C.’s” article is so carefully worded, persuasive,
and so full of sound reasoning, that very little exception can be taken
to it. Referring to Marie Louise Pear, I may say that it does splendidly
here, and we have no Pear which gives us such a succession of fruit.
Beurrd Diel crops well also. From a wall we get large fruit and by no
means badly flavoured. The worst flavoured fruit comes from the
pyramids, at least so we find it here.— R. P. R.

Peach Leaf Blister.

I TAKE this opportunity of thanking Mr. Abhey (page 373) for
giving us the benefit of his scientific studies of the diseases of plants.
He has brought to light many things which have been hidden from our

422

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ N ovember 9, 1893.

view, and I have no doubt he will further enlighten us on many more
diseases of which we are ignorant of at the present time.

About ten years ago we bought a dozen Peach trees, and planted
them against a south wall. In the following spring one of them, about
in the middle, had several blistered leaves, but none of the others had
any on them. The next spring the same tree was worse affected, and a
few odd leaves were blistered on the tree nearest to it. I could not
understand how cold winds could cause blister to come in such a peculiar
way, and as I thought it might be either an insect or fungus, I gave the
tree which was first (and the worst) affected a thorough syringing with
softsoap, 2 ozs. to the gallon of water, which I repeated after a week’s
interval. The following spring the tree which was washed had very
little blister, but it had considerably increased on all (or nearly all) the
other trees. 1 then gave all the trees two good washings with the
same admixture, which I follow up every spring, with the result that
only slight traces of blister were visible this spring. — B. L. J.

Chrysanthemum Shows.

We have received numerous intimations of Chrysanthemum shows
which are to be held during the current month, but space can only be
found for the enumeration of those that have been advertised in our
columns up to date, of which the following is a list ; —

Nov. 10th and 11th. — Bradford.

„ 14th and 15th. — Twickenham, West of England (Plymouth).

„ 15th and 16th. — Birmingham, Hull, Bristol, South Shields, Rugby.

„ 15th, 16th, and 17th. — Herefordshire.

„ 16th, 17th, and 18th. — Edinburgh, York.

„ 17th and 18th. — Bolton, SheflBeld.

„ 24th and 25th. — Eccles and Patricroft.

Mr. Smee’s Chrysanthemums.

We are informed that Mr. Smee’s Chrysanthemums at The Grange,
Hackbridge, Carshalton, Surrey, are open to public inspection every
afternoon this week, also on Sunday next. The display is described as
an excellent one, and no doubt numbers of persons will avail themselves
of the privilege kindly afforded, and enjoy the floral treat provided by
the skill of Mr. Cummins, Mr. Smee’s most competent gardener.

Chrysanthemum Lucy Kendall.

Perhaps a note on this variety may not be inopportune now
that it has been named in the Journal of Horticulture, and may, if it
were necessary, set aside any doubt as to the distinctness of this variety.
Lucy Kendall is a direct sport from Violet Tomlin, possessing all the
characteristics of Princess of Wales. In colour it is pleasing,
the middle part of each petal is deep purple violet, shading to
a lighter tint near the edge. When unfolding the tip of each petal is
gold colour, which passes away with age. — E. M.

A Large Viviand Morel.

I HAVE a Viviand Morel Chrj’'3anthemum that I think is an extra¬
ordinary size. 1 put a piece of string round the bloom and it measured
24 inches, and if raised and the petals spread out over 36 inches.
Placing a piece of string over it extending to the bottom of the petals,
it was 16^ inches. What do your readers think about it? It is perfect
as regards the colour. — F. J., Olton.

White Viviand Morel.

Although there may be a pure white variety in existence as a
sport from Viviand Morel, it would be wise for “ A Young Beginner ”
(page 402) not to exhibit what is apparently a new variety until the
white is produced direct from cuttings in a general way, and especially
developed from terminal buds, or, what is better still, grow a plant
of it as a bush. If the whole of the blooms retained their purity of
colour then, there could possibly be no doubt about the genuineness of
the sport. Viviand Morel is so fond of sporting in the various stages
of development, that it is hard to say what colour we shall obtain
next from this grand Japanese variety. — E. Molyneux.

I FEAR your correspondent, “ A Young Beginner ” (page 402), would
not be allowed to show a white flower on the same board with Viviand
Morel as a distinct variety, I had one, as I thought, thoroughly flxed
last year, and sent it out as Mrs. W. R. Wells. I am sorry to say it has
reverted to the parent variety. This I much regret, as I felt so con¬
fident of its constancy. If your correspondent had these plants through
me I shall only be too pleased to substitute any other varieties as I
guaranteed when I sent out plants of Mrs. W. R. Wells last spring. —
W. Wells, Earlsioood Nurseries, Redhill, Surrey.

[We suspect that any exhibitor is fully justified in staging a pure
white form of Viviand Morel in the same stand with its deep pink
prototype, as the two blooms, pure white and deep pink, would be

absolutely distinct. The two forms were staged in a prize stand at the
Crystal Palace Show, and we suspect the judges did not entertain a
thought of disqualification, nor are we aware that a protest was made
by any exhibitor. The judges at the Crystal Palace were Messrs. T.
Bevan, W. Coomber, R. Dean, J. Douglas, W. Earley, G. Gordon,
J. Hudson, J. Laing, J, Willard, J, Wright, B. Wynne, and G. Wythes.]

Chrysanthemums at Jesmond Towers.

I AM glad to see you are making a striking feature of Chrysanthe¬
mums in your Journal. On Friday last I went to see one of our best
growers in the north, Mr. T. J. Wheeler, gardener to C. Mitchell, Esq.,
Jesmond Towers, Newcastle, who cultivates nearly 500 plants, which are
in excellent health and are carrying grand flowers. The best flowers of
older varieties are Viviand Morel, Boule d’Or, Florence Davis, W. Tricker,
W. H. Lincoln, Bouquet des Dames, Etoile deLyon, Coronet, Stanstead
Surprise, Gloire du Rocher, La Triomphant, Cleopatra, Sunflower, Edwin
Molyneux, Avalanche, Stanstead White, and Mdlle. Marie Hoste.
The best new ones include Mrs. C. H. Payne (grand), Mdme. Edouard
Rey, Elma D. Smith, G. W. Childs, Le Verseau, Miss Dorothy Shea,
William Seward, John Shrimpton, Princess Victoria, Mrs. Neville,
President Borel, Robert Owen, Excelsior, Colonel W. B. Smith, Mrs.
W. H. Fowler, Lord Brooke, Beauty of Exmouth, Lucy Kendall, and
Charles Davis (grand). Incurved blooms are rather later, but the best
are the Princess and Queea family, Mrs. Shipman, Mons. R. Bahuant,
Baron Hirscb, Mrs. Clibran, Jardin des Plants, Refulgens, Madame
Darrier, and Lord Wolseley. The Anemone varieties look well, the best
new ones being Duchess of Westminster, Beauty of Eynsford, Gladys,
and Sabine. — Bernard Cowan.

Chrysanthemums at the Crystal Palace.

It may not be so generally known as it ought to be that one of the
finest displays of Chrysanthemums now to be seen in or near the
metropolis is at the Crystal Palace. As effective as the cut blooms
and trained plants were at the Show there last week, they failed to make
such a fine display as did the plants which had been grown at the
Crystal Palace under the direction of Mr. W. G. Head, the Garden
Superintendent. We are linformed that 7000 plants are cultivated here,
and so it may be imagined that these now form an attraction of no
ordinary character.

The majority of the plants are arranged in a large group at one end
of the central transept near the fountain, and here attract consider¬
able notice. They are well grown and carrying flowers of a good size
and substance. Whilst all the standard varieties are cultivated the
novelties of the current year receive attention, and these are in
excellent condition. In addition to the group mentioned there are
many other smaller collections placed in various parts of the Palace,
these imparting a bright appearance to the huge building. Much
more could be said in regard to the excellence of the Crystal Palace
Chrysanthemums, but space is valuable, and although brief, this notice
will be sufficient to indicate that the plants are deserving of more than
a passing glance.

Chrysanthemums in South Westmoreland.

During the last few years Chrysanthemums have been extensively
cultivated for the production of large blooms in many private places in
Westmoreland. The past season has been very favourable to many of
the Japanese, but the incurved lack the refinement of last year.

At Dalton Hall, near Burton, Mr. Moorhouse has been a grower more
than a dozen years, and his collection of about 300 plants does him
great credit. New ones are tested each year. Among the best are
Colonel W. B. Smith, John Dyer, and Felix Cassagneux, Florence
Davis, R. C. Kingston, Alberic Lunden, and Sunflower. Among the
incurved are, Robert Owen (which here resembles a poor Chevalier
Domage), Mons. R. Bahuant (very fine), Madame Darrier, small but
smooth.

At Dalton Tower Mr. Sarple has over 300 dwarf plants in one house.
Gloire du Rocher, Miss Anna Hartshorn, W. Tricker, Viviand Morel
(both pure white and deep mauve), Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Sunflower,
W. Tricker, and J. Stanborough Dibben, are very fine, the same apply¬
ing to Gloire du Rocher, which has long spreading florets resembling
Sunflower in build. Among incurved Miss M. A. Haggas, the Queen
family and Tecks are prominent.

Mr. McGregor of Brettorgh Holt, near Kendal, has some excellent
flowers on the 350 plants grown. These included thirty plants of
Bouquet des Dames, which made a fine show, Viviand Morel, W. H.
Lincoln, Pelican, Miss Anna Hartshorn, W. Tricker, Mrs. E. W. Clark,
Jeanne Delaux, are carrying exceptionally fine blooms ; while of the
incurved John Lambert, Lord Alcester, and Empress of India are fine.
Mr. McGregor is of opinion that there are too many varieties grown
generally, and maintains that if twenty or thirty plants of each of the
very best varieties were grown a better display might be made.

At Sedgwick House many new varieties are grown, the most pro¬
mising being Le Verseux, a refined Etoile de Lyon ; Eda Prass, very
fine ; John Farwell, dark crimson maroon ; Mrs. Nesbit, fine deep
reflexed Japanese magenta with silvery reverse ; Excelsior, incurved
Jap. ; Colonel W. B. Smith, very fine flowers ; and Mrs. C. H. Payne,
the largest of all. Among older varieties. Sunflower, Etoile de Lyon,
W. H. Lincoln, Mrs. E. W. Clarke, E. Molyneux, and J. Stanborough
Dibben are good. Incurved varieties are rough generally, but Madame
Darrier and Mons. R. Bahuant are very fine. Many other new ones
have promising buds, but this collection is later by a week or ten days

NoTember 9, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

423

than any of the others, owing no doubt to the low-lying situation where
the plants have been grown. About 400 plants are grown here for the
production of large flowers, also a good number of bush plants. — W. S.

Chrysanthemums at Maidenhead.

A FEW days since I paid a visit to Mr. R. Owen’s nursery at Castle
Hill, Maidenhead, to look over his collection of Chrysanthemums, and
note a few of his most promising varieties. Several houses are filled
with seedlings, and others with older and established named kinds. The
whole stock is in a very flourishing condition ; good culture, together
with the healthy and open position of the nursery, having much to do
with the sturdy and robust state of the plants.

Japanese varieties predominate, but a fair proportion of incurved,
Anemones, and Pompons are also grown. On entering the first house
Golden Avalanche was one of the most prominent to catch the eye, a
seedling from the well-known white, having the dwarf and sturdy habit
of the parent. A very fine seedling white, named Beauty of Maiden¬
head, is of large dimensions, long, waxy petals, the points incurved.
James Myers is of a distinct rosy fawn colour, difficult to describe, and
very good. W. H. Fowler is a good yellow, already exhibited.
Viscountess Hambledon I noted was carrying some large blooms, and
Mrs. Dene is another fine Japanese, colour silvery pink. Beauty of
Exmouth is strongly in evidence, beautiful flowers on dwarf plants.
Thomas Hewitt is another new variety, and in an adjoining house I
observed a promising hirsute variety of a bronzy yellow colour, not fully
open. It is impossible to mention all, and many seedlings have not yet
received names. Many plants of Charles Davis, the sport from Vi viand
Morel, were in bloom, but corresponding in colour or petal with those
certificated on October 11th, the flowers apparently being from terminal
buds, and all of a bronzy red colour, and very little of yellow in it.
Presumably the crown bud of strong plants produces the yellow flower,
and one may still ask. Where is the real yellow Viviand Morel 1 The
same remark applies to the so-called white sport Mrs. Wells ; the
terminal flowers are not pure white.

Of incurved varieties Brookleigh Gem was conspicuous ; it is a lilac
sport from Jeanne d’Arc, the flowers equalling that variety in size. Baron
Hirsch is decidedly the greatest acquisition in this class, and will be sure
to find a place in most prizewinning stands. Robert Petfield, a seedling
from Princess of Wales, certificated, but not sent out yet, is of a silvery
lilac colour, the type of its parent. Several exhibition blooms are now
open. Lord Rosebery is an incurved of a dark plum colour, and a
seedling partly expanded promised to equal in colour the well-known
Jardin des Plants.

Growing outside was an interesting display of October and early
flowering kinds, an unusual show for the end of the mouth, several of
the Japanese being worthy of mention — namely. Lord Hawke, rich
claret ; Harvest Home, chestnut red and gold ; Golden Shower, very free ;
Snowflake, white ; Gold-mine, bronze and gold ; Profusion, these were
all raised at Castle Hill. Others very good wmre the Pompons, ineluding
Inimitable, Pomponium, Madame Edouard Lefort, Viscount Clicquot,
Souvenir de Louis Ferie, M. A. Herlaut, and La Vierge. — Visitor.

At THE Royal Gardens, Windsor.

The collection of Chrysanthemums at the Royal Gardens, Windsor,
may be truly termed a royal one, comprising, as it does, all the latest
introductions, and many of the best of the older varieties. There are
in all upwards of 4000 plants grown, and Mr. Thomas, the well known
gardener, estimates that he will have almost equally as fine a display at
Christmas as he has now. The display is a magnificent one, rich in
colour, and splendid flowers. The plants are not arranged in one
structure, but are placed in almost all the cooler houses in the gardens.
Some are in full bloom, while others are only just showing their buds.
Amongst these latter must be mentioned a number of small plants in
6-inch pots grown from cuttings rooted in strong heat during the month
of June, and which are now sturdy little specimens. They will come
in admirably for decorative purposes and for supplying cut blooms, though
for this latter purpose Mr. Thomas has a large number of plants planted
out in a border. All the plants are well grown and carrying stout
foliage, in almost all cases right down to the pots. Flowers are nume¬
rous, and as has been said before, highly coloured, there being an
average of half a dozen blooms to each plant. This remark applies of
course to the large flowered sections, and not to those grown for purposes
of decoration or for affording a supply of cut flowers.

From amongst the varieties in bloom at the present time a few of the
very best have been selected and are mentioned here. Immediately on
entering the structure in which the earliest plants are shown is a
superb bloom of Wm. Seward of exceptional size and perfect form.
Avalanche, though an old variety, holds its own well with some of the
later introductions as also does the bright yellow Sunflower. Colonel
W. B. Smith is represented by several grand flowers, the colour in many
being a rich old gold. A beautiful variety is found in Brocklebank
Improved, the colour of which is a charmingly delicate straw. J. W.
Penny is a chaste flower with narrow pure white florets which render it
most attractive amongst its more substantial looking neighbours. Some
grand flowers of the well known Baron Hirsch are prominent, and the
game may be said of the claret-coloured R. 0. Kingston. Puritan is a
very beautiful variety which is deservedly popular, as also is Gloire du
Rocher, of which there are some exceptionally good examples. Chas.
E. Shea is a refined looking flower of a pale lemon yellow tint, and Annie
Clibran may be placed amongst the first of the pinks. Hairy petalled

varieties are not numerous but of unusual quality, more especially of
the Louis Boehmer type, of which the white variety is decidedly the
best. Excelsior is a pleasing variety with bright magenta florets,
having a silvery reflex. Bouquet des Dames appears to be unusually
good everywhere this season, some blooms at Windsor being perfect
in their symmetry.

Miss Anna Hartzhorn is represented by some superb flowers, as also
is Comte de Germiny, which is, however, rather paler in colour than it
is generally seen. Duchess of Devonshire is a really fine flower, which
should become popular, the blooms having a delicately refined appear¬
ance which is most pleasing. The colour is a charming shade of pink.
Primrose League is a superb variety, the outer florets being nearly
white, a centre of pale primrose ; the flowers are large in size, and
of a handsome shape. Condor, with its broad pure white florets, is
deservedly popular, as also is Edwin Molyneux. A pale lemon-coloured
variety, named Emily Dale Improved, is very beautiful ; and W. A.
Manda, with its bright yellow hairy petals, is amongst the most showy.
Wm. Tricker is to be seen in perfect form, as also are Gloriosum, G. W.
Childs, and Richard Parker. An attractive variety is to be seen in
Moonlight, which is white, tinged with sulphur in colour. Madame
J. Laing is a bright rose coloured flower of splendid shape, and the
bronze blooms of the well-known Lord Brooke were very fine. A good
salmon-tinted kind is Lilian B. Bird, and for a brick red Masterpiece
will be difficult to supersede. A curious flower is seen on a plant of
Madame R. Owen, one half being pure white, and the remainder deep
lilac. The bloom was perfect in shape, and others on the plant had
retained their normal eolour. Amongst the numerous others noticed
were Ada Spaulding, Mr. A, H. Neve, Edwin Lonsdale, Mdlle. Mari :
Hoste, Mrs. Heale, Madame Cabriol, Eynsford White, F. A. Davis, and
Robt, Cannell. A large flower of Viviand Morel measured 13 inches
diameter, which will serve to illustrate the admirable manner in which
the plants have been grown. It must not be thought that those above
mentioned represent the varieties eultivated at Windsor, for such is
not the case. There are dozens of others perhaps equally as good, but
of which special mention cannot be made. — Nomad.

Early and Semi-Early Flowering Chrysanthemums.

Notwithstanding the admitted general depression in trade, the
progress of the Chrysanthemum is great, and the early and semi-early
varieties enjoy their full share in this advance. The summer of 1893 has
been one of such exceptional length and sunshine that it is a chance if
many persons will see the like in England again. Its effects on all
vegetation has been most marked, not only due to its length and bright¬
ness, but by its long period of absence of rain. Where Chrysanthemums
have been planted in the open gardens or fields where they could not be
sufficiently watered, their flowers, even after the rain did come, have
frequently proved abortive, and even in many cases where they were
grown in pots and sufficiently watered and manured the blooms have
come with what growers call a “ weedy eye.” I have noticed this
particularly in the two crimson sorts — viz , Roi des Prbcoces and Ruby
King, which latter, in most seasons, quite fills up and covers any slight
weedy eye that does exist. It seems, like many other cases in which
Nature appears to fear for the existence of the race, that extra effort is
made for its perpetuation, though, as far as I can see, this has not
been a good season for the growth of seed in this country of the
Chrysanthemum.

Another curious result of the season has been that in July many
varieties came into bloom that should in usual seasons have been a month
later. Thus at the end of July I had twenty-two sorts in bloom, and
at the end of October some were only then in flower that in ordinary
years would have done so a month before, so that in J uly the season was
a month in advance of usual summers, and at the end of October it was
in some cases a month behind. Then some varieties have bloomed twice
in the season. White Lady, Strathmeath, and Dodo did so, and Blushing
Bride has even bloomed three times. Of course in all these cases I am
speaking of plants grown naturally, not disbudded or cut down in any
way. Many plants through their thorough ripening and maturity have
produced vast masses of flowers, even more than they usually do.

At the first Show at the Aquarium at Westminster on September 6th
the most striking feature as regards early flowering Chrysanthemums
were two exhibits of twenty-four bunches in twenty-four varieties.
These exhibits were quite typical of two different modes of growing,
and equally meritorious in their way. The blooms in one stand were
probably grown entirely in the open air and naturally, while those in
the other exemplified disbudding and finish under glass. Certifieates
were awarded on that day for a variety named Mr. Barlow, and for a
new yellow kind named Edwin Rowbottom. I do not mention here
the many other varieties exhibited at this and the second Show, because
many were merely late varieties, grown early by taking the first bud or
other means. At the second Show at the Aquarium on October the 11th
a plant of Lady Fitzwygram, the new white early sort, was exhibited,
also several plants of Ryecroft Glory, the new yellow. A group, mostly
composed of Piercy’s Seedling, was likewise exhibited.

It may perhaps be well here to mention that the splendid early
October variety Comtessse Foucher de Careil has become one of the
greatest market varieties sold in various forms. Fine plants have been
exposed for sale in 48-size pots. It has been called Source d’Or, but
the latter variety c.annot be had nearly so early, neither is it so
manageable a plant, being very tall and much less profuse in flowping.
Gustave Grunerwald, not Grundelwald as I have seen it spelt, is the
name of the Emperor of Russia’s gardener at the Gatschine Palace in

424

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Kovember 9, 1895.

Kussia. This plant is already in the hands of one or more large market
growers, but perhaps will not be a common flower for some time,
as it rather more delicate than some, and not so profuse a bloomer as
many, but for high-class trade it must take a place, because it is the most
beautiful very early variety. It was figured in the Journal of Ilortioidticre
for August 18th, 1392.

Of new sorts I must put first Ryecroft Glory, to which allusion has
already been made. It is the very finest semi-early yellow, as it does
not really fully bloom till the middle of October. It has nearly every
good quality for a plant in its line. It is stout and dwarf, 2^ to 3 feet
high, and if disbudded will give flowers to 4 inches across, of a rich
golden yellow colour. If grown naturally it produces a mass of bloom.
It is good for propagation, and if cuttings are rooted in the middle of
May the plants will bloom at the end of October, doing well in small
pots. It is a real advance on any we have had before of its colour, and
is useful not only as a decorative plant but for providing cut flowers.
Another variety which deserves mention is Gloire de Mezin. This was
raised in France, and sent over here in 1891, but although 1 grew it last
yerr I did not discover its great merits. It is called a red crimson, but
it seems more appropriately to be considered a red bronze. It is a
reflexed flower, and grows without disbudding 4 inches across. The
plant grows 3 feet 6 inches high, with dark massive foliage, and
it also bears fine massive tufts of flowers which are a wonder to see. It
is very good for propagation, and is an excellent variety in every respect.
It blooms in the middle of October, and can be had up to the end of that
month, making it in most seasons a fine open garden plant.

Madame Marie Mass6 is another sent over from France in 1891, It
is an excellent variety, very early, and will bloom from a cutting
put in at the beginning of May at the end of August. It starts with
three or four blooms, after which it shoots out from below these, and
blooms right on into October, It grows rather over 2 feet high with a
stout habit. The flowers are reflexed Japanese, in colour of a pale
magenta to mauve ; very good for propagation. Orange Child was
raised herein 1891 from seed said to be of Source d’Or, grown in America.
It is an excellent variety, somewhat resembling the yellow sports of
Madame Desgrange, but of better habit, inasmuch as the separate flower
stalks are longer, thus enabling the flowers to come out without dis¬
budding. It is a profuse blooming Japanese with orange yellow flowers
3| inches across. Grows 2^ feet high and stout, requiring no sticks to
support it. Blooms in September, and has a moderate foliage. It has
the advantage that all the flowers can be cut at one time, and the plant
put out of the way,

Montague is a seedling of my own, raised from American seed. It
grows 4 feet high with a fine open habit, spare foliage, and stout wood.
The flowers are 4 inches across, reflexed Japanese ; rich purple crimson
in colour. It does well without disbudding. Blooms at the beginning
of October, and is one of the best of its colour that flowers at that period.
Another seedling of my own raising is American Star. This is a model
for stoutness of habit and profuseness of blooming. It grows only
2 feet high, being so stout that it requires no sticks, but covers itself
with a perfect mass of white flowers 2 to 8 inches across, slightly
flushed and pinkish colour. This is grown from American seed.

Another seedling named Maria grows a little over 3 feet high with
flowers 21 inches across, colour mauve, which come in a solid mass of
profusion all over the top of the plant. They are of Japanese form,
stand well, and are borne on stalks which make them most convenient
for cutting. A great number of flowers can be produced on a small
space of ground. They come to full perfection in September. Early
Beauty is a seedling from American seed. Flowers mauve, rather
reflexed, 3 inches across. The plant has a bushy habit, and keeps on
blooming from September to October. Mrs. Gifford is a beautiful
silvery white Japanese seedling. The plant grows 3 to 4 feet high with
a thin habit. The flowers are 3 inches across, and produced in October.
Florie Parsons is a mauve reflexed Pompon 18 inches to 2 feet high,
flowers 3 inches across. A continuous bloomer during September and
October. Mdlle. Marguerite Puisaye was sent from France in 1891, but
is very little known. It is a remarkably dwarf plant, requiring no
sticks, growing only 2 to 2J feet high, with fine Japanese flowers 3 to
4 inches across. It is termed a red brown, but we may set it down as a
bronze. It is an admirable plant, can be had in bloom from September
to October, at which latter time it will flower if rooted at the beginning
of May. It is a profuse bloomer, covering itself with flowers, and a
plant of very handsome form.

Lady Fitzwygram has not come up to my expectations of it last
season. Like so many others, when all the buds but some five or six
are taken off, it is good, but disappointing when they are all left on ;
then the flowers are certainly most numerous but small, and weak in
the stalks, which are too short to make the flowers generally available
for cutting. To grow the flowers a fair size the plant requires vigorous
cutting and thinning-out, as well as disbudding. Another way to
manage^ it is to root cuttings late, say 1st of May ; then grow the
plants in small pots, the produce moderate sized blooms. In con¬
clusion I may mention that Mdlle. Renee Cohn has quite come up fo my
good opinion of it last season. It is excellent as a decorative plant or
for cut flowers. As a pink Japanese it comes before pink Mdlle.
Lacroix, but not to be confounded with Madame Leon Cohn, which I
have found to be inferior to the above. Ocher growers and myself
have many good seedlings and we can hope the time is not far
distant that the early varieties may receive the addition of one equal in
habit to the unsurpassed crimson late one, William Seward
— W. PIERCY, Beadnell Road, Forest Uill, London, S.E.

CHRYSANTHEMUM SHOWS.

HORSHAM.— October 31st and November 1st.

The fourth annual Exhibition of the Horsham Chrysanthemum
Society was held on Tuesday and Wednesday, October 31st and Novem¬
ber Ist, at the Assembly Rooms, and proved to be equal to any of its
predecessors. Five good groups were arranged, the chief honour being
won by Mr. A. Haskell, Slinfold. Mr. G. Marshall was a good second,
Mr. E. Daniels third, Mr. J. Salter fourth, and Mr. S. Charman fifth.

In the open class for cut blooms some spirited competition resulted.
For twenty-four Japanese blooms, distinct, Mr. G. Duncan of Warnham
Court won with splendid flowers, massive and bright. The best were
Viviand Morel, John Dyer, Miss A. Hartshorn, Colonel W. B. Smith,
W. H. Lincoln, W. Seward, Edwin Molyneux, Lilian B. Bird, Wm.
Tricker, and Etoile de Lyon. Mr. W. Wallis, HartSeld, was second ; his
best blooms were John Shrimpton, G. C. Schwabe, and Mrs. E. W. Clarke.
Mr. T. Sparks, Wimblehurst, was third with fine and even blooms. For
twelve Japanese Mr. E. Lawrence was first, Mr. J. W. Harris second,
and Mr. E. Daniels third. With six Japanese, one variety, Mr.
T. Dauncey staged six faultless Viviand Morel ; Mr. Duncan followed
with Avalanche, and Mr. J. W. Harris third. For one bloom of any
Japanese Mr. J. Coles put up a grand Colonel W. B. Smith, Mr. Sparks
followed with Mons. E. A. Carriere, and Mr. H. Harris with Mdlle. Marie
Hoste.

In the class for twenty-four incurved blooms of not less than eigh¬
teen varieties Mr. T. Sparkes had a grand even box of all the leading-
varieties, and was a good first. Mr. Goldsmith, Leonardslee, was second,
and Mr. Wallis third. For twelve incurved, distinct, Mr. E. Daniels
was first, Mr. H. Harris second, and Mr. J. W. Harris third. With six
incurved, Mr, E. Lawrence, G. Duncan, and G. Goldsmith scored ; and
in the single bloom, incurved, the winners were Messrs. Goldsmith,
Sparkes, and Wallis.

For six Anemones Mr. H. Harris won with a good box of Jean
Marty, Delaware, Mrs. Judge Benedict, Lady Margaret, Grand Alveole,
and Mrs. Leven. Mr. T. Sparkes was second, and Mr. Dauncey third.
With six reflexed Mr. H. Harris again scored first, Messrs. Sparkes and
Lawrence following. Mr. T. Sparkes led with twelve Pompons, a fine
box. Messrs. H. Harris and E. Lawrence followed. In a mixed class
for twelve Japs and twelve incurved Mr. G. Goldsmith was first, Mr.
G, Duncan second, and Mr. J. Sparkes third, all showing well the
leading varieties of both sections. Classes were provided for the ladies
for baskets, sprays, and bouquets. Miss Willison, Mrs. A. Aldridge,
Mrs. Stott, and Mrs. Champion secured the prizes amongst them for
some very pretty arrangements. A few classes were provided for
amateurs, and the prizes were won by Messrs. Charman, Stott, Cham¬
pion, and others.

Fruit was well shown, and prizes won by the following : Black
Grape.3, Messrs, Duncan, Laurence and Le Pelley ; White Grapes r
Messrs. Dauncey, Duncan and A. Kemp ; Pears, Dessert : Messrs.
Goldsmith, Duncan and Webb; Pears, Stewing: Messrs. Goldsmith,
Kemp and Daniels ; Apples, Cooking : Messrs. Goldsmith, H. Harris
and Webb ; Apples, Dessert ; Messrs. Kemp, Coles and H, Harris. Six
varieties of vegetables, the prizes given by Messrs. Sutton & Sons,
brought five fine collections ; Messrs. Lawrence, Sparkes and H. Harris
winning in the order named.

Mr. T. Sparkes sent some beautifully trained plants of Chrys¬
anthemums, not for competition, these were much admired and were one
of the features of the Show.

The Secretaries, Mr. S. Mitchell and Mr. G. W. Taylor, and the
Committee deserve a word of praise for the excellent arrangements made
and for the results achieved .

EWELL. — November 2nd.

To recoup a loss on the late summer Exhibition of some £10, the
local Horticultural Society resolved to hold a first Chrysanthemum
Show this season, and it took place at the Public Hall on November 2nd.
All exhibits were honorary so far that whilst a schedule was issued and
classes formed, the competition was restricted to certificates of three
classes, and these, of a very handsome character in three colours, were
much prized. The Show, though small, was so good that it merits very
high praise, especially that the exhibitors could not have any pecuniary
reward.

Three fine groups of Chrysanthemums were staged, the best coming
from Mr. Ewinton, gardener to Sir David Evans, whose arrangement
and flowers were both excellent. The second best, showing many good
cub bunches for the front rows, was shown by Mr. Whiteman, gardener
to A. W. Gaddesden, Esq. ; Mr. Elsey, gardener to Miss Carlisle, being
third. Then in the mixed group class Mr. Whiteman was first with a
charming collection, Mr. Elsey being second, Mr. Ewinton and Mr.
Worsfold, gardener to Lady Glynn, being equal third.

Mr. Whiteman had the best six Bouvardias, really fine well bloomed
plants ; also six best berried plants, the Giant Red Capsicum being
very finely fruited. The finest six double Primulas in four large
flowered sorts came from Mr. Ewinton, all well grown, also the best
sinales. Mr. Whiteman had handsome Zonal Pelargoniums, and showed
a fine collection of winter flowering plants, including Salvias, blue
and scarlet Cypripediums, Chrysantbemums, Eupatoriums, Heaths,
and Begonias. Cut flowers were few and only fairly good. Fruit was
very good, Mr. Ewinton having the best Grapes, Mr. Whiteman the best
six dishes of fruit, Mr. Elsey the finest three dishes of Pears, and Mr,

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Ewinton the best of Apples. There were good Tomatoes, flowers in
baskets, epergnes, and numerous other exhibits, all helping to make a
very pretty show.

HIGHGATE. — November 2nd and 3ed.

The ninth annual Exhibition of the Highgate and District Chrys¬
anthemum Society was held in the Northfield Hall, Highgate, on the
above dates. As a local Exhibition this has for many years been regarded
as a very good one, and the present year’s Show proved no exception to
the rule. The cut blooms formed the principal feature, although groups

Mr. J. Brookes, gardener to W. Reynolds, Esq , J.P., The Grove, High¬
gate, was second with larger but rather coarse flowers, Mr, S. J. Cook,
Hendon, was third. Mr. Turk, gardener to T. Boney, Esq., Cholmondeley
Lodge, was first with twelve incurved blooms in a special class ; Mr.
A. Page, Priory House, New Southgate, being second. For six blooms
of any one incurved variety Mr. J. Brooks secured the leading prize with
a stand of Madame Barrier in fine condition. Mr. Rowbottom followed
closely, and Mr. H. A. Page was third. The last-named exhibitor, how¬
ever, won the special prize, given by Mrs. H. R. Williams, for twelve
incurved blooms. Mr. Rowbottom was a close second with well-grown

Fig, 62.— CATTLEYA LORD ROTHSCHILD. (.See page 417.)

and plants were fairly well represented. Fruit and vegetables were
also staged, but further reference to these cannot be made. The
exhibits were very much crowded, which detracted considerably from
the show as a whole. We append the names of the leading prizewinners
in the classes provided for Chrysanthemums.

One of the principal classes in the cut bloom section was for twenty-
four Japanese varieties, distinct. Mr. E. Rowbottom, gardener to
H. R. Williams, Esq , The Priory, Hornsey, succeeded in winning the first
prize. His blooms were in splendid condition, being large and well
finished. The varieties were Mrs. C. H. Payne, Mrs. Falconer Jameson,
Mdlle. Marie Hoste, E. Molyneux, Kentish Yellow, Alberic Lunden,
W. Tricker, Avalanche, W, H. Atkinson, Gloire de Rocher, Golden
Dragon, Utopia, Excelsior, Souvenir de la Malmaison, Col. W. B. Smith,
Ada Prass, Chas. Davis, Edith Rowbottom, G. C. Schwabe, President
Borel, Sunflower, Viviand Morel, Miss Dorothy Shea, and Madame
Therese Rey, Mr. J. Sandford, gardener to G. W. Wright-Ingle, Esq.,
Woodhouse, Finchley, was second with smaller flowers.

The incurved blooms were very good. Mr. J, Burch, gardener to
J. Smith, Esq., The Priory, Mill Hill, was placed first for twelve blooms,
comprising Hero of Stoke Newington, Violet Tomlin, Princess of Teck,
Princess of Wales, Novelty, Refulgens, Prince Alfred, Lady Dorothy,
Madame Barrier, Alfred Lynn, Jeanne d’Arc, and Camille Flammarion.

specimens ; and Mr. H, W. Hawker, Westerham, Kent, was third.
A special prize was offered for thirty-six blooms, distinct, half to be
incurved and the rest Japanese. There were three exhibitors in this
class, and the competition was keen. Mr. J. H. Walker, gardener to
J. Marshall, Esq., Goldbeater, Mill Mill, was placed first with a stand
of grand blooms. The incurves were well finished, especially Mrs. Heale,
Prince Alfred, Violet Tomlin, Madame Barrier, and Golden Empress.
The best of the Japanese varieties were J. Stanborough Dibbens,
Puritan, W. Tricker, Gloire de Rocher, W. H. Lincoln, Sarah Owen,
Mdlle. Marie Hoste, and Col. W. B. Smith. Mr. B. Rowbottom was a
very close second, the third prize going to Mr. J. Burch. Mr. Row-
bottom secured the leading award for six blooms of one Japanese variety
with a stand of magnificent examples of Col. W. B. Smith. These were
the finest blooms we have seen this season. Mr. W. Hawker was second
with blooms of W. Tricker.

A feature of the Show was a standard of twelve bunches of Chrys¬
anthemums, arranged with foliage for effect. Mr. B. Rowbottom w'on
the first prize with a charming; arrangement. Mr. D. M. Hayter,
gardener to W. Hannsford, Esq., Hendon, was second, and Mr. G. Qaelch,
Shepherd’s Hill, was third. Mr. Sandford was placed first for six
Japanese blooms, distinct, in a special class, Mr. A. Page being second.
Mr. E. Lin field had the best six white Japanese in the amateurs' class,

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JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 9, 1893

Mr. Eowbottom gaining a similar position in the open class, both showing
well grown blooms. The last named exhibitor was first for twelve Japanese
blooms in a special class, Mr, Brooks occupying a similar position in
another class. As before remarked, groups and specimen plants were fairly
good, but the exhibits were so arranged as to render it impossible to dis¬
tinguish the names of the prizewinners. For a group of Chrysanthemums
Mr. J. Brookes was awarded the first prize.

Miscellaneous exhibits included a group of plants from Messrs. B. S.
Williams & Son, Upper Holloway ; a collection of fruit and vegetables
from Messrs. W. Cutbush & Sons, Highgate ; cut Chrysanthemum
blooms from Mr. W. E. Boyce, Archway Road, Highgate ; and some
boilers from Messrs. Pearce & Heatley, Holloway Road, N. The
amateurs’ and cottagers’ classes were well filled, and there were
numerous baskets and epergnes filled with Chrysanthemums.

CRYSTAL PALACE.— November 3rd and 4th.

An Exhibition of Chrysanthemums was held at the Crystal Palace
on the above dates, and as is usual on such occasions the produce staged
was of excellent quality. Some of the classes were well filled, and the
competition generally keen, the leading southern growers been repre¬
sented. The Japanese blooms were splendid, being large, but not coarse,
and well coloured. There were perhaps a few exceptions, but the
foregoing remarks may be applied to the blooms in the leading stands.
Taken as a whole the incurved blooms were also exhibited in excellent
condition, especially in the principal stands ; but in a few instances
some rather rough ones were noticeable. The Anemone flowered
varieties were exceedingly good, although not very extensively shown,
the same applying to the Pompons. In two or three classes there were
but few entries, and consequently some spare tabling was conspicuous.
Trained plants were well shown, as also were the groups, some blooms
on the plants being remarkably fine.

The principal class was for forty-eight blooms, twenty-four incurved
twenty-four Japanese, not less than eighteen varieties of each, or more
than two of one variety, for which the following prizes were offered :
£10 first, £7 second, £5 third, £3 fourth. There were seven exhi¬
bitors, and the competition was very keen. As an example of this
those veteran growers who have so many times in past years held the
first prizes, Messrs. Drover, Fareham, were in this case placed fourth.
The coveted award fell to Mr. C. Ritchings, gardener to Dr. Frank-
land. The Yews, Reigate Hill, for an exquisite collection, the Japanese
being massive, bright, and as fresh as it is possible to stage them. The
incurved blooms were models of neatness, and seldom have we seen such fine
flowers of the Rundle family as were staged in the front rowof this exhibit.
His Japanese blooms were staged as follows : — Colonel W. B. Smith, Edwin
Molyneux, Viviand Morel (fine colour), W. H. Lincoln (good) ; Mrs.
Harman Payne, John Shrimpton (fine), and the acme of brightness ;
Viviand Morel, Colonel W. B. Smith, Puritan, President Borel, Gloire
du Rocher, W. H. Lincoln, Beauty of Exmouth, Edwin Molyneux,
W. Seward, Sunflower, W. Tricker, W. H. Atkinson, Florence Davis,
Excelsior, W. Seward, and Avalanche. Incurved : Baron Hirsch,
Empress of India, Violet Tomlin, Madame Darrier, Empress of India,
Prince Alfred, Baron Hirsch, Jeanne d’Arc, Queen of England, Madame
Darrier (good), Princess of Wales, Violet Tomlin, Miss M. A. Haggas,
Lord Wolseley, Jeanne d’Arc, Lady Hardinge (fine). Nil Desperandum,
Mrs. G. Bundle, Mrs. Dixon, George Cockburn, Princess Beatrice,
Cherub, and Mrs. G. Rundle. Mr. H. Shoesmith, gardener to
M. Hodgson, Esq., Shirley Cottage, Croydon, was awarded the second
prize for a very good collection. The Japanese were brighter than the
rest and so keen did the third prize run him that it was not until con¬
siderable amount of minute examination and pointing had been resorted
to by the judges that the awards were made, only two points separating
the second and third prize collections. Mr. Shoesmith’s best Japanese were
Edwin Molyneux, Viviand Morel, Col. W. B. Smith, Eda Brass, Charles
Davis, Mdlle. Th^r^se Rey, and a white Viviand Morel, which, as
exhibited, is a distinct and appreciative variety. Mr. J. C, Salter,
gardener to T. B. Haywood, Esq , Woodhatch Lodge, Reigate, was third.
Excelsior, Charles Davis, Mdlle. Marie Hoste and Colonel W, B.
Smith were amongst the best Japanese. Princess of Wales and Baron
Hirsch were fine amongst the incurved in this stand. Messrs.
W. G, Drover, Fareham, Hants, as before remarked, were placed
fourth. The Japanese were somewhat weaker than the others and
scarcely up to their usual brightness in colour ; their incurved varieties
were on the whole neat but a little flat.

In the class for eighteen incurved varieties, distinct, there were ten
competitors, and Mr. W. H. Lees, gardener to F. A. Bevan, Esq., Trent
Park Gardens, New Barnet, outdistanced the others with one of best
and most even stands that could be staged. The blooms in the front
row were as perfect both in size and form as those at the back.
The varieties comprised Mons. R. Bahuant, Queen of England, Alfred
Salter, Lord Alcester (magnificent), Lord Wolseley, Empress of India,
Mrs. Coleman (good), Hero of Stoke Newington, Princess of Wales, John
Doughty, Violet Tomlin, Jeanne d’Arc (grand), Madame Darrier, Alfred
Lyne (good), Golden Empress of India, Princess Beatrice, and Miss
Haggas. Mr. George Carpenter, gardener to Major Collis Browne,
Byfleet, was awarded the second place, Jeanne d’Arc and Madame
Darrier being his finest blooms. Messrs. W. & G. Drover were third,
and Mr. C. W. Knowles, gardener to Mrs. C. Egerton, Roehampton,
fourth. For twelve incurved varieties, distinct, Mr. A. Felgate, gardener
to Her Grace (Elizabeth) the Duchess of Wellington, Burhill, Walton-
on-Thames, was placed first in the eight collections staged. The varie¬
ties were Mrs. Heale, Madame Darrier, Queen of England, Mons. R.

Bahuant, Princess of Wales, Noel Pragnell, Lord Wolseley, Jeanne d’Arc,
Miss M. A. Haggas, Violet Tomlin, Eve, and Mrs. Coleman. Mr. W.
Jupp, gardener to G. Boulton, Esq., Torfield, Eastbourne, was placed
second, Mr. A. Turner, gardener to C. F. Murray, Esq., Woodcote
Hall, Epsom, third, and Mr. T. Robinson, gardener to W. Lawrence, Esq.,
Elsfield Gardens, Maidstone, fourth. For six incurved, one variety, nine
collections were staged, and Mr. Brown, gardener to A. B. Welch-Thorn-
ton. Esq., Beaupaire Park, Basingstoke, was placed first with six good
blooms of Mons. R. Bahuant. Mr. W. Jupp was second with Princess
of Wales. Mr. George Goldsmith, gardener to Sir E. Loder, Bart.,
Horsham, third with Madame Darrier ; and Mr. George Carpenter
fourth with Prince Alfred.

No less than fifteen competed in the class for eighteen Japanese,
distinct, the premier award falling to Mr. Lees with Viviand Morel,
Stanstead White, Mr. C. Bryceson, Florence Davis, Edwin Molyneux,
Condor, Sunflower, Charles Davis, Mr. F. Jameson, Madame B. Carri^re
(a magnificent flower). Col. W. B. Smith, G. C. Schwabe, Avalanche,
Gloire du Rocher, W. Tricker, H. W. Lincoln, and Puritan. Messrs.
W. & G. Drover were second ; Mr. Charles Cox, gardener to J. Trotter,
Esq., Brickenden Grange, Hertford, third ; and Mr. Carpenter fourth.
For twelve Japanese, distinct, there were twelve competitors, and Mr.
E. Tickner, gardener to J. Watney, Esq., Shermanbury House, Reigate,
won the premier position with Col. W. B. Smith, Violet Rose, W. H.
Lincoln, Viviand Morel, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Edwin Molyneux, Presi¬
dent Borel, G. C. Schwabe, W. Tricker, Puritan, Lord Brooke, and
Avalanche. Mr. A. Felgate ; Mr. J. Harwood, gardener to A. J. Jack,
Esq., Brightlands, Reigate; and Mr. W. Howe, gardener to H. Tate,
Efq., Park Hill, Streatham Common, were placed second, third, and
fourth respectively in the order of their names.

There were eleven exhibitors in the class for six blooms of one
Japanese variety, and the competition was naturally very keen. The
premier award, how’ever, went to Mr. J. MacDonald, gardener to
Captain Manling, Clanna, Sydney, Gloucester, who staged half a dozen
splendid blooms of Edwin Molyneux. Mr. A. Felgate was second with
exceedingly good Col. W. B. Smith. Mr. W. J. Owden, gardener to
A. Morris, Esq., Court Green, Streatham, was third with Viviand Morel,
and Mr. Chas. Cox, gardener to J. Trotter, Esq., Brickenden Grange, Hert¬
ford, was fourth with Stanstead White. In the class for eighteen reflexed
and Japanese reflexed blooms there were three competitors. Mr. C. J.
Salter secured the first prize for a stand of fine even flowers. These
varieties were Wm. Sew^ard, Eynsford White, Phidias, Elaine, Rosy
Morn, J. Shrimpton, Edwin Becket, Mrs. Sullivan, Criterion, Gloire de
Rocher, Maiden’s Blush, Madame Prunal, La Triomphante, Ernest
Asinils, Mons. Jules Chretien, Jeanne Delaux, and Emperor of China.
The second prize went to Mr. A. Felgate, and the third to Mr. C.
Ritchings, Reigate Hill.

With eighteen blooms of Anemone and Japanese Anemone-flowered
varieties there were seven exhibitors, and the competition was keen.
Mr. C. J. Salter was first with Delaware, Ruche Toulous.dne, Mrs. Judge
Benedict, Grand Alveole, Nouvelle Alveole, Annie Lowe, Minnie Chate,
Lady Margaret, Acqui.sition, Cincinnati, Mons. Lebosqz, Duchess of
Westminster, Sabine, Soeur Doroth6e Souille, La Marguerite, Thorpe
Junior, George Sands, and Gluck. Mr. J. Milner, gardener to Mrs.
W. A. Higgs, Barnet, Herts, was second; Mr. R. C. Notcutt, Ipswich,
third, and Mr. H. Harris fourth. Only one exhibitor was forthcoming
in the class for twelve blooms of Japanese Anemone flowered
varieties, but no award was made, as the stand contained two large
flowered Anemones.

Four exhibitors competed in the class for twelve Pompons, distinct,
three blooms of each. Mr. J. Knapp, gardener to F. W. Amsden, Esq.,
22, Chichester Road, Croydon, secured the premier award for a stand of
neat blooms. The best varieties were Perle des Beautes, Prince
of Orange, Golden Madame Martha, Black Douglas, Florence Carr, and
Mdlle. Blise Dordan. Mr. C. J. Salter, gardener to T. B. Haywood, Esq.,
Woodhatch Lodge, Reigate, was second, and Mr. H. Harris, gardener to
Mrs. Eversfield, Deene Park, Horsham, third. For twelve bunches of
Anemone Pompons Mr. Salter was first, showing Aglaia, Antonins,
Brightness, Madame Montel, Perle, Emily Rowbottom, Breolus, Madame
Senter, Regulus, Mr. Astie, Bessie Flight, and Marguerite de Coi. Mr.
Harris followed, and Mr. Knapp was third. There was only one exhi¬
bitor of twelve bunches of single Chrysanthemums, this being Mr. Geo.
Carpenter, gardener to Major Collis Browne, Broad Oaks, Byfleet, but
to whom the first prize was deservedly awarded. The flowers staged
were delightfully fresh and formed a pleasing contrast to the other
varieties. It is a pity these graceful Chrysanthemums are not more
generally grown. The varieties staged by Mr. Carpenter were Bessie
Conway, Miss Cripsly, Mrs. D. B. Crane, Sir T. Symons, Miss M. Wilde,
Miss Mary Anderson, Rev. Rewfrey, Purity, Yellow Jane, Oceana, Lady
Churchill, and Jane.

For a collection of Chrysanthemums in pots arranged for effect in a
group not less than 50 feet square, and open to amateurs only, Mr. T. W.
Wells, gardener to C. Ralph, Esq., Cranbrook Villa, Fox Lane, Upper
Norwood, was placed first. This group was well arranged as regards
colour, the plants also being dwarf and the blooms of a fair size.
Mr. D. Baker, gardener to C. J. W. Rabbits, Esq., Westwood House,
Sydenham, was a close second, the plants in this case being rather more
crowded than in the first prize exhibit. They were nevertheless well
arranged otherwise, and carried fine blooms. Mr. James Fry, gardener
to W. Aste, Esq., Hill House, Sydenham, was third. There were two
competitors in the open class for a collection of Japanese varieties only
arranged for effect in a group of not less than 100 square feet. The firs

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427

prize went to Messrs. J. Carter & Co., High Holborn, for a splendid
group, comprising the leading varieties in excellent condition. Messrs.
J. Mobsby & Son, 147, Moffat Road, Thornton Heath, were second.
There was apparently only one exhibitor in the class for a group of
incurved varieties, to be faced with Pompons and ornamental foliage
plants. This was Mr. A. W. Young, 1.57, Holmesdale Road, South
Norwood, to whom the fourth prize was awarded.

Mr. J. Hughes, gardener to G. R. Higgins, Esq., Eastlands, Dulwich
Village, was first for six trained specimens of Pompon varieties, showing
Golden, Lilac and White Cedo Nullis, Saint Justin, Mabel (a yellow sport
from Saint Justin), and Maroon Model in good condition. Mr.
W. Wesker, gardener to A. Heaver, Esq., Upper Tooting, was second,
and Mr. W. Carr, Croydon, third. Mr. Hughes was also first for six
trained specimens of incurved varieties. The best of these were Mrs.
G. Glenny, Mrs. Dixon, Prince Alfred, Mrs. G. Rundle, and Lord
Wolseley, in grand condition. Mr. E. Cherry, gardener to Mrs. Gabriel,
Norfolk House, Streatham, was second. Mr. Hughes repeated his success
with six trained Japanese varieties, the finest of these being
Margot, Stanstead Surprise, Cleopatra, and Viviand Morel.
Mr. Wesker was second, and Mr. E. Cherry third. Mr. W. Carr secured
the first prize for nine standard trained specimens with Mrs. G. Rundle,
Alberic Lunden, Golden Madame Martha, Mrs. Dixon, Black Douglas,
Elaine, Margot, Source d’Or, Mrs. G. Glenny, White Cedo Nulli, and
Novelty. Mr. G. H. Cooper was second, and Mr. Carpenter third.

Miscellaneous exhibits were not so plentiful as we have seen them
at the Crystal Palace. Mr. W. Wells, Earlswood Nursery, Redhill,
staged a fine group of Chrysanthemums, also some splendid cut blooms
of all the leading varieties. Messrs. W. Cutbush & Sons, Highgate,
sen la box of blooms of Mrs. Leopold de Rothschild Carnation, a
useful variety, which produces its charming pink flowers in the winter
as well as in the summer. Messrs. J. Laing «fe Sons staged a group of
flowering and ornamental foliaged plants not for competition, and some
well grown blooms of Chrysanthemums, including the latest novelties.
Mr. W. J. Godfrey, Exmouth, sent blooms of Beauty of Exmouth Chrys¬
anthemum, for which a certificate was awarded. Mr. Godfrey likewise
secured a certificate for a white Carnation named Mary, and staged a
pink variety designated Reginald Godfrey. Both varieties are very
fragrant. Mr. A. Ambrose, Bristol, also staged blooms of a white Car¬
nation named Blagdon Surprise. The flowers were large, and of good
form. Messrs. Benham & Froud, Ltd., Chandos Street, W.C.,
showed the simplex syringe fumigator, which appears to be a useful
contrivance. Dr. Walker had some of his patent tubes and cups. Mr.
C. E. Shea, Foot’s Cray, staged splendid blooms of Chrysanthemums
Miss Dorothea Shea and Mdlle. Therese Rey, and secured a certificate
for the last named variety, which is one of the best acquisitions of
the year.

NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM SOCIETY.

November 7th, 8th, and 9th.

Many persons who were present at the great autumn exhibition held
under the auspices of the National Chrysanthemum Society, at the
Royal Aquarium, Westminster, on the above dates, expressed the opinion
that it was one of the finest ever seen there. This doubtless was the case, for
taken on the whole the blooms w'ere excellent, and the same may be said
of the trained plants. In most classes the entries were very numerous,
and the competition exceedingly keen. It is to be regretted, however,
that space there does not permit the exhibits to be better arranged,
inasmuch as a little irregularity on this point causes confusion amongst
exhibitors who are desirous of finding any special class.

Open Classes.

The principal class in the cut bloom section was for forty-eight
flowers, to consist of twenty-four incurved and twenty-four Japanese,
distinct, the prizes being the challenge trophy and £10 as first, £6 as
second, and £4 as third. This class is open to Chrysanthemum and
horticultural societies on conditions as stipulated in the National Chrys¬
anthemum Society’s schedule. There were three entries, and the first
prize fell to the St. Neot’s Amateur and Cottage Horticultural Society.
The member who contributed the blooms was Mr. R, Petfield, gardener
to A. G. Thornhill, Esq., Widdington, Huntingdon. The Japanese were
not particularly large, but wonderfully bright and fresh, and comprised
the following varieties : — Mrs. C. Harman Payne, Violet Rose, Lord
Brooke, W. H. Lincoln, Gloire de Rocher, Mrs. Hubbuck, W. Trickner,
J. Dyer, Pelican, E. Molyneux, Waban, Chas. Davis, Eda Prass (grand),
Alberic Lunden (very fine), Mdlle. Marie Hoste, G. C. Schwabe, Sun¬
flower, W. W. Coles, Viviand Morel (fine), Mrs. Briscoe Ironside,
Primrose League, Mr. E. C. Clarke, Avalanche, and Mr. C. W.
Wheeler. The incurved blooms were neat and clean, but some of them
were rather flat. The varieties were Mons. R. Bahuant, Empress of
India, C. W. Whitnal, Princess of Wales, Lord Wolesley, J. Lambert,
Violet Tomlin, Mrs. Robinson King (fine). Ami Hoste (good). Queen of
England, Alfred Lyne, Novelty, Baron Hirsch, Jeanne d’Arc, Alfred
Salter, Tohn Doughty, Madame Darrier (excellent). Golden Empress,
Robert Petfield, Mrs. Heale, Prince Alfred, Lord Alcester, Brookleigh
Gem, and Miss M. A. Haggas. After due consideration the second prize
went to the Havant Chrysanthemum Society, the flowers in this case
being contributed by Mr. J. Agate. They were well grown, particularly
the Japanese, of which Mdlle. Marie Hoste, W. W. Coles, Viviand
Morel, Lord Brooke, Princess May, and Chas. Davis may be mentioned
as being especially good. The incurved blooms were rather small and
flat but neat, the best being Lord Wolseley, Baron Hirsch, and Madame
Darrier. The Sittingbourne and Milton Gardeners’ and Amateurs’

Association came third wdth creditable blooms, the incurved in this
stand being the best.

Incurved Blooms. — In the class for thirty-six incurved blooms,
distinct, there wefe six competitors, and the fight for the Holmes
Memorial challenge cup of £10 as first prize was very keen. The
Judges were a considerable time in adjudicating, but eventually it was
decided that Mr, W. H. Lees, gardener to F. A. Bevan, Esq., Trent Park,
New Barnet, was first with a few points only. The blooms shown
were grand, and comprised the following varieties : — Lord Alcester,
R. Cannell, Mr. N. Davis, Prince Alfred, Mrs. Coleman, Cherub,
Princess of Wales (grand), John Salter, Lord Eversley, Alfred Salter,
Miss M. A, Haggas, Chas. Gibson, Lord Wolseley, Princess of Teck (fine),
Mrs. Heale, Mrs. Robinson King, Ami Hoste, Princess Beatrice, Mons.
R. Bahuant, Jeanne d’Arc, Nil Desperandum, Queen of England, Lady
Dorothy, Empress Eugenie, Violet Tomlin, Golden Empress of India,
Mrs. Haliburton, John Lambert, Hero of Stoke Newington, Refulgens,
Alfred Lyne, John Doughty, White Venus, Empress of India, Barbara,
and Madame Darrier. Messrs. W. & G. Drover, Fareham, were awarded
the second prize for a stand of fine blooms. The best of these were
Empress of India, John Doughty, Lord Alcester, and Alfred Salter.
Messrs. W. Ray & Co., Mount Pleasant Nursery, Teynham, secured the
third prize ; and Mr. H. Shoosmith, gardener to M Hodgson, Esq.,
Shirley, Croydon, the fourth, both staging fine blooms.

There were five exhibitors in the class for twenty-four incurved
blooms, and here again the competition was keen. Mr. W. H. Lees
repeated his former success, showing a stand of splendid blooms, which
justifies him to a foremost position in the Chrysanthemum world. The
varieties staged were Lord Alcester, Lady Dorothy, Princess Teck, John
Doughty, John Salter, Madame Darrier (grand). Prince Alfred, Princess
of Wales, Nil Desperandum, Mrs. Coleman, Hero of Stoke Newington,
Miss M, A. Haggas, Lord Wolseley, Queen of England, Princess
Beatrice, John Lambert, Alfred Lyne, Empress Eugenie, Violet Tomlin,
Empress of India, Barbara, Golden Empress, Robert Cannell, and Jeanne
d’Arc. Mr. C. W. Knowles, gardener to Chas. Egerton, Esq., Roehampton,
was second ; Messrs. W. Ray & Sons third ; and Mr. J. Myers, gardener
to the Earl of Sandwich, Hinchingbrooke Gardens, Huntingdon, fourth.

The class for twelve incurved blooms brought forth a very keen
competition, there being no less than ten exhibitors. Mr. W. Collins,
gardener to J. W. Carlile, Esq., Ponsbourne Park, Hertford, secured the
leading award with a stand of neat blooms, deep in build. The varieties
were Empress of India, Golden Empress, Princess of Wales, Mrs. Robin¬
son King, John Doughty, Mrs. S. Coleman, Alfred Salter, Mrs. Heale,
Violet Tomlin, Queen of England, Madame Darrier, and Lord Alcester,
Mr. A. Felgate, Burchill, Walton-on-Thames, was second; Mr. B. Calvert
Bishop Stortford, third ; and Mr. G. Garpenter, Broad Oak, Byfleet,
fourth. There were two competitors with six blooms of incurved varieties
put into commerce in 1891 or 1892, but both were disqualified for staging
flowers not in accordance with the schedule. With six incurved blooms
of any one variety, there were seven competitors, and Mr. W. Collins
was placed first with six grand specimens of Mrs. Heale. Mr. J. Hewett,
Hillside House, Hythe, was second with Lord Alcester, and Mr. Calvert
third with Violet Tomlin.

Japanese Blooms. — An exhibitor, who has been improving rapidly
with florists’ flowers during the past few years — W. Herbert Fowler, Esq.,
Claremont, Taunton — secured the first prize and the Holmes’ Memorial
challenge cup in the class for forty-eight Japanese, and his victory was
the more creditable owing to the strength of the competition. His stand
was not striking for weight, but it was wonderfully even, the flowers all
being good and fresh. The varieties in the back row were J. S. Dibben,
Etoile de Lyon, E. Molyneux, Stanstead White, Mrs. E. W. Clarke,
Thos. Hewitt, Van den Heede, Thos. Selwood, Viviand Morel, W. K. Wood¬
cock, Mrs. E. D. Adams, R. C. Kingston, Col. Smith, Julius Roehrs,
W. H. Lincoln, and Duke of York. Middle row : Violet Rose, Sunflower,
Potter Palmer, Miss Dorothea Shea, a blush seedling, G. C. Schwabe,
Florence Davis, W. W. Coles, Madame J, Laing, Mrs. F. Jameson,
G. W. Wheeler, Marie Hoste, W. Tricker, Miss Muriel Scott, Puritan,
and Chas. Davis. Front row : Miss Anna Hartshorn, Beautd Toulousaine,
E. G, Hill, W. Falconer, C. Shrimpton, Mrs. Alpheus Hardy, Rufacto
Marshaletta, Mdlle. Th4rese Rey, Robt. Owen, Louis Boehmer, Beauty
of Exmouth, Vice-President Calvat, Autumn Tints, Gloire du Rocher,
J. Shrimnton, and Chas. Blick. Mr. Fowler had very sensible labels for
his varieties. Mr. Chas. Cox, gardener to J. Trotter, Esq., Brickenden,
Hertford, also bad a very fine stand, some of his blooms, notably
E. Molyneux, Viviand Morel, Boule d’Or, Chas. Davis, Wm. Seward, and
Stanstead White, being grand examples. The old champion, Mr.
C. Gibson, gardener to J. Wormald, Esq., Morden Park, was third. He
had lighter flowers than the others, but they were otherwise admirable.
Messrs. W. & G. Drover, Fareham, were fourth.

The stands in class 8 for twenty-four Japanese blooms made a show
in themselves, for there were many fine exhibits. The best was that from
Mr. W. Higgs, gardener to J. B. Hankey, Esq., Fetcham Park, Leather-
head, who had a very heavy and beautiful box, in which Colonel Smith
(magnificent). Beauty of Castle Hill, Stanstead White, Violet Rose,
W. Seward, J. S. Dibben, Puritan, and E. Molyneux were splendid
examples. It was one of the best twenty-fours ever shown. Mr. W. H.
Lees, gardener to F. A. Bevan, Esq., Trent Park, New Barnet, also had
an excellent stand, and was placed second, his Viviand Morel. Charles
Davis, Mrs. Alpheus Hardy, Sunflower, Colonel Smith, and Mrs. Jameson
being very fine. Mr. H. Shoesmith, gardener to M. Hodgson, Esq ,
Shirley Cottage, Croydon, was third, his Colonel Smith, Viviand Morel,
E. Molyneux, and Madame Calvat being excellent flowers. Mr. W.

428

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 9, 1893.

Collins, gardener to \V. Carlile, Esq., Hertford, was fourth. There were
seventeen entries,

Mr. W. Allan, gardener to Lord Suffield, Gunton Park, proved that
he can grow Chrysanthemums as well as Strawberries by staging a
splendid stand of twelve blooms. It was composed of a magnificent
Viviand Morel, very fine Coronet, Stanstead White, W. H. Lincoln, and
Miss A, Hartshorn, and excellent Mrs. Payne, Avalanche, Stanstead
Surprise, Comte de Germiny, J. Dyer, Sunfiower, and W. Tricker —
altogether a very fine display. Mr. Felgate, gardener to the Duchess of
Wellington, Burhill, Walton-on-Thames, had a very fresh stand. Col,
Smith, Viviand Morel, W. H. Lincoln, and W. Tricker being exception¬
ally good. Mr. Thorne, gardener to Major Joicey, Sunningdale, was
third, and Mr. Sturt, gardener to N. L. Cohen, Esq., fourth, both
showing well. In the class for six white Japanese Mr. W. Collins was
first with fine Avalanche ; Mr. Calvert, gardener to Col. Archer Houlton,
second with the same variety ; and Mr. R, Jones, gardener to C, A.
Smith-Ryland, Esq., third with Florence Davis. With six of any other
colour Mr, W. Collins won again, having a grand box of E, Molyneux ;
Mr. Shoesmith was second with Colonel Smith, and Mr. Telgate third
with the same variety. Mr. W. H. Lees was first with Japanese
incurved, staging Col. Smith, E. Molyneux, W. Tricker, W. H. Lincoln,
Mdlle. Carriere, and Mrs. Alpheus Hardy in beautiful order. Mr.
Calvert was a very good second, and Mr. W. H. Fowler third. Much
interest attached to the class for twelve Japanese of 1891 and 1892.
Mr. W. J. Godfrey, Exmouth, won with Miss Dorothea Shea, Lizzie
Cartledge, Primrose League, Mrs. Harman Payne (very fine), Chas.
Blick, Aureole Virginale, Van den Heede, Princess May, Ducbess of
Devonshire, J. Farwell, Pearl Beauty, and Lilian Russell. Mr. H,
Shoesmith was second, and Mr. Fowler third.

Reflexed, Ayiemone, and RomjJons. — With twelve large reflexed
blooms, there were twelve competitors, and Mr. J, F. Thorne, gardener to
Major Joicey, Sunningdale Park, was awarded the first prize. This
exhibitor had Cloth of Gold, Pink Christine, Cullingfordi, King of the
Crimsons, Distinction, James Carter, Cloth of Gold, Phidias, White
Christine, Golden Christine, and Putney George. Mr. A. Sturt, Round
Oak, Englefield Green, was second, and Mr. Chas. Brown, gardener to
R. Henty, Esq., Langley House. Abbots Langley, third.

Mr. A. Ivies, gardener to C . E. J ukes. Esq., Hadley Lodge, High Barnet,
was placed first in the class for twenty-four large-flowered Anemones,
showing fine blooms. The best of these were Empress, Annie Lowe,
Madame Lawton, Delaware, Nelson, George Hawkins, Sabine and
Minnie Chate. Mr. W. Skeggs, gardener to A. Moseley, Esq., West
Lodge, Barnet, was second, and Mr. John Milner, Willenhall Park,
Barnet, third. Mr. Ivies had the best twelve Japanese Anemones ; Mr.
R. C. Notcutt being second, and Mr. J. Milner third. Mr. Ivies also
secured the first prize for twelve large Anemone blooms (Japanese
excluded), showing amongst others Lady Margaret, Annie Lowe,
Empress, and Mrs. Judge Benedict in grand condition. Mr. A. Sturt
was second, and Mr. C. Brown third.

For twelve Anemone Pompons, three blooms of each variety, Mr.
J. Myers secured the leading award for a stand of fine blooms. Mr.
N. Aldridge, Palmers Green, was second, and Mr. C. Browne third.
Pompons were best shown by Mr. C. Brown, who had an excellent stand
of blooms, amongst which Brilliant, Cinderella, and Black Douglas
were very good. Mr. Turk was second, and Mr. J. Myers third.

Special Prizes. — In the class for twelve incurved blooms for the
special prizes offered by Mr. E. C. Jukes, Mr. Robert Petfield, Diddington,
Hunts, was first with neat blooms, amongst which Baron Beust, Eve,
Mabel Ward, Mrs. Shipman, Lady Dorothy, Mrs. Rundle, and Venus
were conspicuous. Mr. W. H. Lees was second, and Mr. C. W. Knowles
third. Mr. E. Rowbottom, gardener to R. Williams, Esq., The Priory,
Hornsey, secured the first award for six blooms of seedling Chrysanthe¬
mums, the prizes being offered by Mr. H. J. Jones. The varieties
staged were A. G. Hubbuck, Autumn Tints, W. H. Atkinson, Mr.
Chas. Blick, H. F, Tiarks, and Miss Muriel Scott. Mr. Herbert Fowler,
Taunton, was second, and Mr. J. Agate third. Mr. W. G. Godfrey, The
Nurseries, Exmouth, secured the silver medal given by Mr. Jones for
six seedlings sent out last year, and this with Beauty of Exmouth, Miss
Dorothea Shea, Mrs. H, Payne, Van der Heede, Golden Wedding, and
Pearle Beauty.

Mr. Agate secured the first prize given by Mr. R. Owen, Maidenhead,
for twelve blooms of six new incurved varieties, and Mr. C. Ritchings,
Reigate, gained Mr. Godfrey’s special prize for six blooms of Beauty of
Exmouth.

Amateues’ Classes.

The amateurs came out in strong force with twenty-four Japanese.
J. R. Wildman, Esq., 9, Grove Road, Clapham Park, had an excellent
stand ; albeit the blooms, with the exception of Viviand Morel, Mrs.
Jameson, and one or two others, ran rather small. Mr. J. Horril, West
Street, Havant, was second with bright smooth flowers, and Mr. A. J.
Parker, 172, New Kent Road, was third.

For twelve incurved blooms in this section, Mr. J. Horril, West
Street, Havant, was placed first, showing good blooms of Lord Wolseley,
Golden Emperor, Mrs. Heale and Prince Alfred ; amongst others J. R.
Wildman, Esq., was second, and Mr. Thomas Lansley, Watford, third,
Mr. Alfred Holmes, The Grange, Gosport, was first for six incurved
blooms, Mr. T. Brown, South Wimbledon, being second, and Mr. C. E.
Wilkins, Woodside, Surrey, third.

With twelve, Mr. Alfred Holmes, Fort George, Gosport, won, and he
had an excellent stand. Mr. Thos. Lansley, 155, Pinner Road, Watford,
was a very close second, his blooms being good in every way. Mr,

Tullett, gardener to G, Alexander, Esq., was third, under protest. There
was very close competition in the sixes. Mr. F. Durrant, 4, New Road,
Ware, was first, having a splendid Viviand Morel in his stand. Mr, J.
Brown was second, Mr. Alfred Holmes third, and iMr, F. W. Bucking¬
ham, Tonbridge, was awarded an extra prize.

Mr. W. C. Pagram, gardener to A. F. Hobhouse, Esq., The Whim,
Weybridge, won with twelve single Chrysanthemums, and he had a
charming stand. Yellow Jane, Bessie Conway, Mary Anderson, Jane,
Millie Agate, and Rev, W. E. Remfrey being very fine indeed. Mr. J,
Agate, Havant Nurseries, was second, some points in the rear, his Golden
Star being, perhaps, the best. Mr. Carpenter, gardener to Major Collis
Browne, Broad Oak, Byfleet, was a good third. Mr. John Little, Rom¬
ford, had the best stand of twelve in the amateurs’ and single-handed
gardeners’ classes, and a very good one it was ; Mr. E. Tickner, gardener
to J. Watney, Esq., Reigate, being second, and Mr. W. C. Pagram third.
Mr. Tickner won with six, Messrs. E. Mawley, Rosebank, Berkhampsted,
and W. Jones, gardener to W. Hooper, Esq., Sutton, being second and
third. Mr. Little, Romford, secured the first prize for twelve incurved
blooms in this section, showing neat examples. Mr. J. G. Turk, High-
gate, was second, and Mr. E. Trickner, Reigate, third. Mr. Pagram,
Weybridge, staged the best six incurved blooms, Messrs. W. H. Davis
and C. E. Wilkins following.

The metropolitan classes were open to growers who reside within the
limits of the London County Council, and the whole of them were well
filled. For twelve incurved blooms, Mr. F. Bingham, Stoke Newington,
was first ; Mr. W. Davey, Stamford Hill, being second, and Mr. F. W.
Wraight third. Mr. J. Bury, Tewkesbury Lodge, Forest Hill, had the
best six incurved blooms in this section ; Messrs. J. Brookes, Highgate,
and F. Bingham following. Mr. Brookes was first in the class for twelve
Japanese, distinct ; Mr. W. Beech, Hereford House, South Kensington,
second, and Mr. Bingham, third. The last named exhibitor had the best
six Japanese blooms, Messrs. Vince and Bury being second and third.

Groups and Trained Plants.

Only two groups of Chrysanthemums were entered for competition,
these being arranged by Mr. H. J. Jones and Mr. Davis, to whom the
first and second prizes were awarded. Mr. W. Davey, gardener to C. C.
Paine, Esq., won with six standard trained large-flowered varieties ; Mr. W.
Donald, gardener to J. G. Barclay, Esq., was second ; and Mr. W. Wesker
third. Mr. G. W. Hendon won with standards of any varieties, Mr.
Silks being second, and Mr. Hughes third. Mr. Donald had some of the
finest trained specimens ever exhibited at these Shows. His six were
magnificent examples, both as to health, training, and flowers. Margot
and Gloriosum were superb. Mr. J. Hughes was second, and Mr. Wesker
third. Mr. Hendon won with four, these being about half the size of Mr.
Donald’s plants. Messrs. W. Davey and Gilks were second and third.
Mr. J. Hughes was first for six trained specimens of Pompons, and Mr.
F. Gilks, Forest Road, Walthamstow, had the best “naturally trained”
plant. Mr. D. Donald, Leyton, secured the leading award for a single
specimen, showing Margot in grand condition.

Miscellaneous.

Miscellaneous exhibits were numerous. Mr. Robert Owen, Maiden¬
head, staged a splendid collection of Chrysanthemum blooms, com¬
prising all the latest novelties. Mr. W. Godfrey, Exmouth, also had
som e grand flowers of the newest varieties, which attracted notice. Mr.
H. J. Jones, Ryecroft Nurseries, Lewisham, made a special feature, in
the Exhibition by staging fine blooms in large vases, and these created
quite a sensation. It would be well if this method of staging were
more generally adopted. Messrs. E. D. Shuttleworth & Co., Limited,
had a neat stand of table and greenhouse plants, healthy and well-
grown. Messrs. J. Laing & Sons had a table of large and richly
coloured Apples. Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son contributed a stand of
Orchids and Heaths, which was very much admired. Messrs. Cannell
and Sons were represented by a splendid display of Chrysanthemums
and Zonal Pelargoniums interspersed with Ferns, which created a most
brilliant effect. Messrs. Sutton & Sons filled a long table with heaps of
their fine Potatoes, Supreme, Windsor Castle, Triumph, Abundance, and
Satisfaction, the tubers being of splendid quality. Mr. J. George,
Putney, had horticultural sundries ; Mr. J. Myers, Hinchingbrooke, the
“ Acme ” self-clipping double risingitube for Chrysanthemums ; G. W.
Davis, tins of fertiliser ; and Williams, lies «fe Co., pottery.

Mr. J. R. Chard, Stoke Newington, and Mr. F. W. Seale, Sevenoaks,
divided the prizes for three vases or epergnes of Chrysanthemums,
while Messrs. Perkins & Sons, Coventry, and Gilbert Davidson, Annan-
ford, South Wales, won the awards for a table of bouquets and wreaths.

The special prizes offered by Messrs. Sutton & Sons for a collection
of vegetables brought forth a good competition. Mr. W. Pope, High
Clere Castle Gardens, was first for a grand collection. Mr. C. J. Waite
was second, Mr. Richards, Sydmonton Court, Newbury, third, and
Mr. G. Best, Basingstoke, fourth. Mr. Turton, Maiden Erleigh,
Reading, was first for six dishes of culinary Apples, and also for a
similar number of dessert Apples. Muscat and black Grapes were well
shown by Mr. C. Giffen, Kingston-on-Thames, and Mr. Brown, Forest
Hill, also had two good bunches of Gros Colman Grape, for which the
first prize was awarded. Mr. W. Allan, Gunton Park, was first with
six dishes of dessert Pears, Mr. W. Benwick being second. The last
named exhibitor also staged a large number of Apples, and Messrs.
W. Cutbush & Sons had Apples and bunches of Chasselas Napoleon
Grapes. Amongst other things Potatoes were extensively shown in the
competitive classes, and in addition to Messrs. Sutton’s exhibits,
Mr. C. Fidler staged Potatoes in fine condition, as did Messrs.
H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley.

November 9, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

429

Numerous new Chrysanthemums were exhibited by some of the
leading growers, including Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, H. J. Jones,
R. Owen, W. J. Godfrey, T. S. Ware and others, but no certificates had
been awarded when our reporter left the building. These will be
mentioned in our next issue.

KINGSTON AND SURBITON.— November 7th and 8th.

The seventeenth annual Exhibition of this far-famed Society must
be recorded as among the very best that have been held this season, and
Kingston again maintains the prestige it has won so well. Not a
bad exhibit was to be found in the whole Exhibition, composed of over
seventy classes. Marked excellence characterised the Show throughout,
and Mr. G. Woodgate, the Hon. Secretary, Mr. John Drewett, the Hon.
Treasurer, who has been connected with it from the first, and the
executive may justly be proud of the success achieved.

More than usual interest centered in the Exhibition owing to there
being two silver challenge cups awarded, one competition being for final
possession. This was the sixth champion challenge vase, value 25 guineas,
for forty-eight Chrysanthemum blooms, distinct, twenty-four incurved
and twenty-four Japanese, arranged on separate boards. This having
been won successively by T. H. Bryant, Esq., Juniper Hill, Dorking;
Major Collis Browne, Broad Oaks, Byfleet ; and Alfred Tate, Esq., of
Downside, Leatherhead, the final competition this year was confined to
those three gentlemen, as represented by their gardeners, Messrs. Beckett,
Mease, and Carpenter respectively. Mr. W. Mease, who won the coveted
honour last year, wrested it from the previous holders, and the vase now
becomes Mr. Tate’s property. The whole collection was massive, the
blooms being of great depth, especially his twenty-four incurved. The
collection consisted of the following varieties : — Japanese : Viviand
Morel, George Daniels, Boule d’Or, Mrs. Harman Payne, Eda Prass,
Edwin Molyneux, Condor, Col. W. B. Smith, Robert Owen (magnificent).
Excelsior, W. Tricker (fine), G. C. Schwabe, J. S. Dibbin, Etoile de
Lyon, W. Seward, V. P. Darquier, Mdlle. Th^r^se Rey, Mrs. Falconer
Jameson,W. H. Lincoln, Mrs. Cannell,Vice- President Cal vat. Lord Brooke,
Miss Anna Hartshorn, Chas. Davis. Incurved : John Lambert, John
Doughty, Jeanne d’Arc (fine), C. B. Withnal, Robert Cannell, Mons. R.
Bahuant, Marquise de Paris, Queen of England, Lord Alcester, Violet
Tomlin, Golden Empress, Princess of Wales, Madame Carrier, Empress
Eugbnie, Mrs. S. Coleman, Empress of India, Princess Beatrice, Mrs. W.
Shipman, Mrs. Heale, Nil Desperandum, Miss M. A. Haggas, Princess
Teck, John Salter, and Novelty.

Mr. C. Beckett, gardener to T. H. Bryant, Esq., Juniper Hill, Dork¬
ing, was placed second. Most of his Japanese were of good build and
possessed both finish and colour, but several of his incurves were lack¬
ing in depth. Sunflower, G. W. Childs, Beauty of Castle Hill, Excelsior,
and Vice-President Darquier were amongst his best Japs ; Jeanne d’Arc,
Baron Hirsch, Princess of Wales, and Madame Carrier were the finest
in finish of his incurves. Mr. G. Carpenter, gardener to Major Collis
Browne, Broad Oaks, Byfleet, was a very close third, and he would
probably have been in a stronger position had the Show been a few
days earlier.

The seventh champion challenge vase, value twenty-five guineas, is
open to subscribers of one guinea, for forty-eight Chrysanthemum blooms,
distinct, twenty-four incurved and twenty-four Japanese, the winner to
hold the vase till the next Exhibition. Should the same exhibitor win
the vase twice (not necessarily consecutively) it shall become his
property ; but should it be won by three different exhibitors in the first
three years, then the competition in the fourth year shall be confined to
the three winners. Winners of the challenge vases : — 1882, T. D. Galpin,
Esq., Bristol House, Putney ; gardener, G. Harding. 1883, W. H. Myers,
Esq., Swanmore Park, Bishop’s Waltham, Hants ; gardener, E. Molyneux.
1885, W. H. Myers, Esq., Swanmore Park, Bishop’s Waltham, Hants;
gardener, E. Molyneux. 1887, J. Wormald, Esq., Morden Park ;
gardener, C. Gibson. 1888-9, W. Furze, Esq., Roselands, Teddington ;
gardener, E. Coombs. 1893, Alfred Tate, Esq., Downside, Leatherhead.

There were five collections staged for the new vase, the premier
award being made to Mr. W. Neville, gardener to F. W. Flight, Esq.,
Cornstiles, Twyford, Winchester, who is now the holder for the first year
of what in Chrysanthemum phrase is considered the blue ribbon of the
show if not of the nation. This collection comprised of Japanese,
Viviand Morel, W. H. Lincoln, Thomas Hewitt, E. Linsdale, Puritan,
Beaute de Toulousaine, W. Tricker, Colonel W. B. Smith, Florence Davis,
Stanstead Surprise, W. R. Woodcock, Marquise de Paris, R. Brockle-
bank. Condor, Lord Brooke, Stanstead White, Boule d’Or, Miss
A. Hartshorn, Golden Dragon, Madame J. Laing, Comte de Germiny,
Glorie du Rocher, J. Shrimpton, and Sunflower. Incurved : Lord
Wolseley, Mrs. Coleman, Lord Alcester. Prince of Wales (fine), Mons.
Bahuant, Golden Empress, Baron Hirsch, Jeanne d’Arc, Miss Haggas,
Queen of England, John Doughty, Violet Tomlin, Empress of India,
Prince Alfred, Mrs. Heale, Ami Hoste, Golden Queen of England, Mr.
Brunlees, Alfred Lyne, and Mr. Bunn. Mr. G. J. Hunt, gardener to
Pantia Ralli, Esq., Ashtead Park, Epsom, was a very good second.
Robert Owen, a beautiful incurved Japanese, stood out most prominent
in this collection ; he had also good finished flowers of Jeanne d’Arc,
Princess of Wales, and Nil Desperandum. Mr. J. Quarterman, gardener
to C. E. Smith, Esq., Silvermore, Cobham, was placed third for an even
and neat collection, and Mr. G. Woodgate, Warren House Gardens,
Kingston, fourth.

In the class for twenty-four incurved, distinct, seven collections were
staged. Mr. W. Higgs, gardener to J. B. Hankey, Esq., Fetcham Park,

Leatherhead, was well ahead with a magnificent collection throughout ;
probably he staged as fine blooms of the Queen family as has been
exhibited this season. Golden Empress was grand, also John Doughty,
John Lambert, Queen of England, John Salter, Lord Alcester, Empress
of India, Alfred Salter, Jeanne d’Arc, Lord Wolseley, Miss Haggas,
Violet Tomlin, Princess of Wales, Prince Alfred, Baron Hirsch, Lady
Dorothy, Nil Desperandun, Alfred Lyne, Madame Darrier, Mrs. Heale,
Ami Hoste, Empress Eugenie, and Mabel Ward. Second honours fell to
Mr. W. Jinks, gardener to W. Grant, Esq., Fair Lawn, Cobham ; and
the third and fourth to Mr. W. Mease and Mr. W. Neville in the order
of their names.

For twelve blooms, incurved, distinct, Mr. W. Hopkins, gardener to
Mrs. Wodderspoon, The Chestnuts, Walton, was placed first with Mrs.
Heale, Violet Tomlin, Miss Haggas, Prince Alfred, Mrs. Coleman, Empress
of India, Princess of Wales, Jeanne d’Arc, Queen of England, Madame
Darrier, Golden Empress, and Ami Hoste. Messrs. C. Beckett and Mr.
A. Felgate were placed second and third respectively. In the class for
six incurved blooms six collections were staged, first honours falling to Mr.
J. Thorne, gardener to A. E. Flood, Esq , The Bush, Walton ; second to
Mr. G. Mileham, gardener to A. T. Miller, Esq., Emlyn House, Leather¬
head ; and third to Mr. G. Holden, gardener to Mrs. C. W. Izod, The
Lammas, Esher. For six of one kind Mr. Hopkins was first with Violet
Tomlin ; Mr. Neville second with Princess of Wales ; and Mr. E.
Coombs third with Baron Hirsch out of nine collections set up, and all
meritorious.

There were six competitors for twenty-four Japanese, distinct, and
the first prize was awarded to Mr. W. Higgs for solid blooms of Eda
Prass, Mrs. Nisbet, Boule d’Or, Condor, W. Seward, Etoile de Lyon,
Sunflower, G. C. Schwabe, Col. Smith, Vice-President AudiguierfEdwin
Molyneux, Sarah Owen, Mrs. Falconer Jameson, Mdlle. Marie Hoste,
Alberic Lunden, Puritan, Stanstead White, J. S. Dibben, W. Tricker, Miss
Anna Hartshorn, Violet Rose, Beauty of Exmouth, and Viviand Morel.
Second honours fell to Mr. W. Mease, and third to Mr. G. Trinder,
gardener to Sir H. Mildmay, Bt., Dogmersfield, Winchfield.

In the corresponding class for twelve Japs, distinct, there were eight
competitors, and Mr. G. Hunt was first with Viviand Morel, Miss Anna
Hartshorn (fine), W. Tricker, Edwin Molyneux, Mons. A. Carri^re, Mrs.
F. Jameson, Boule d’Or, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Robert Owen, Eda Prass,
Florence Davis, and Vice-President Darquet. Mr. G. Holden was a
very good second ; and Messrs. Hopkins and Ridge third and fourth in
the order of their names.

For six Japanese, distinct, Mr. F. King, gardener to A. F. Perkins,
Esq., Oakdene, Holmwood, Surrey, was well to the front ; Mr. H. Head,
gardener to W. Daniels, Esq., Inglewood, Kew, was placed
second ; and Mr. C. Slade, gardener to General Gardiner, third. Mr.
R. Ridge, gardener to Swifton Eady, Esq., Weybridge, secured the first
prize for six of a sort with Viviand Morel ; Mr. A. Felgate the second
award with grand blooms of Sunflower ; and Mr. G. Hunt third with
Marie Hoste. The competition was splendid in these classes.

Messrs. Meases, Felgate, and Pitcher shared the honours for twelve
reflexed. Anemones made a fine display, and Messrs. Jinks, Woodgate,
and Turner secured the prizes in order of their names. Singles, Pompons,
and Anemone Pompons were all well represented, collections of three
blooms each in six bunches of the Rundle family had a beautiful effect.
Messrs. Wells, Redhill ; Plowman, Long Ditton ; and Dorsett were
placed first, second, and third respectively. The blooms were shown on
leafy stems.

The best incurved bloom in the Show was Mrs. Coleman in Mr.
Flight’s stand, and the best Japanese, Edwin Molyneux, was shown by
Mr. Hunt.

Groups are always good at Kingston, and this year they were better
than ever. Mr. Mileham was deservedly awarded first honours for a
collection that not only excelled in dwarfnesi ot t ablt, quality of flower,
and above all in arrangement. Mr. T. Bead, gardener to li. S. Bond,
Esq., was a very good second ; Mr. G. Springthorpe, gardener to W. A.
Bevan, Esq.. Coombe Court, Kingston, third ; and Mr. W. H. Pitcher,
gardener to Mrs. Dunnage, Albanes House, Surbiton, fourth. Mr. G. J.
Cook, gardener to J. S. Sassoon, Esq , Ashby Park, Walton, deservedly
secured first prize for a miscellaneous collection of flowering and foliage
plants. Mr. Swan, gardener to Muriy Smith, Esq., Brockley Lodge,
Weybridge, secured the first prize with six beautiful trained plants of
Mrs. Forsyth, George Glenny, Golden Christine, Mrs. Rundle, Peter the
Great, and Pink Christine. Mr. F. King was placed second. Mr.
Swan also secured first honours for trained Pompons, staging good
examples of Golden Mdlle. Marthe, Mdlle. Marthe, Mr. Astie, and Marie
Stuart ; Mr. Atkins was second, and Mr. W. Cusbon third.

Fruit was well represented. Mr. Waite secured the first prize for a
collection of four dishes, and Mr. Griffin, gardener to Alex. Christy, Esq.,
Coombe Bank, secured the special prize given by Mr. W. Lane for three
bunches of black Grapes with Alicante. Mr. Griffin was also first in a
white variety with Muscat of Alexandria. Primulas were seldom shown
in such excellent condition, more especially those exhibited by Mr.
Mease, which not only secured first honours but the silver medal for
high culture. Several bouquets were exhibited, but some too formal, and
the prizes seemed to be awarded to the more free and pleasing arrange¬
ments. Epergnes were tastefully furnished, Mrs. Nuttall, a daughter of
Mr. Flight, who used to win honours at Winchester, being the most
successful exhibitor. Mr. Waite had a grand collection of vegetables, in
fact many exhibits were worthy of notice if time and space permitted,
at this the last and best show that has ever been seen in the ancient
town of Kingston-on-Thames.

480

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 9, 1893.

BKIGHTON.— November 7th and 8th.

The annual Chrysanthemutn Show of the Brighton and Sussex
“New” Horticultural Society was held in the Pavilion on the above
dates, when a magnificent display was brought together. The Japanese
blooms were of exceptional merit, the incurved ranging rather smaller
than is customary, but making up in quality for what they lacked in
size. Fruit, including Apples, Pears and Grapes, were staged in good
numbers and splendid condition, as also were vegetables in various
kinds. The arrangements of the Show under the superintendence of
Mr. M. Longhurst, Secretary, and a committee of management were
perfectly carried out, and reflected much credit on these gentlemen.
Groups and specimen plants were seen in exceptionally good form and
in great numbers. The exhibition was such an extensive one and so
highly meritorious that we are unable to give a full list of the prize¬
winners, and append the names of those in the principal classes only.

Mr. H. Head, The Drive Nursery, Hove, was awarded the first prize
for a group, arranged in a space of 14 feet by 8 feet, in which some
grand examples were staged. Mr. J. Hill, gardener to M. Wallis, Esq.,
J.P., Springfield, Withdeane, was a good second ; and Mr. F. Meachen,
gardener to Mrs. Armstrong, Woodslee, Withdeane, third. For a semi¬
circular group in a space of 11 feet 6 inches by 6 feet, Mr. Fairs,
gardener to R. Clowes, Esq., Clayton, Wickham, Hassocks, was placed
first for an admirable arrangement. Mr. Sims, gardener to C. J. Inwood,
Esq., The Retreat, Dyke Road, Brighton, was second ; and Mr. Lister,
gardener to E. A. Wallis, Esq., Lewes Road, Brighton, third. Mr. C.
Ritchings, gardener to Dr. Frankland was an excellent first, securing
a silver medal for thirty-six Japanese, in not less than twenty-four
varieties, staging — back row: Colonel W. B. Smith, E. Molyneux,
Viviand Morel, W. H. Lincoln, Puritan, E. Molyneux, Puritan, Mrs. C.
Harman Payne, J. Shrimpton, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Viviand Morel, Col.
W. B. Smith. Middle row : Charles Shrimpton, Professor Whitmack,
Mdlle. Marie Hoste, President Borel, Gloire du Rocher, Condor,
J. Shrimpton, W. H. Lincoln, E. D. Adams, President Borel, Beauty of
Exmouth, Mrs. A. G. Ramsey. Front row : Florence Davis, Sunflower,
William Seward, W. H. Atkinson, Florence Davis, Excelsior, William
Tricker, Lord Brooke, Prince du Bois, William Seward, and Etoile de
Lyon. Mr. Slaughter was a good second ; Mr. Hart was third ; and
Mr. Penford fourth.

In the class for twenty-four Japanese, distinct, there were flve stands
staged, Mr. Slaughter, Jarvis Villa, Steyning, being first. His stand
was comprised of — Back row : Vice-President Audiguier, Gloire du
Rocher, Mdlle. Marie Hoite, Mrs. C. Harman Payne, Mrs. E. D. Adams,
E. Molyneux, W. H. Lincoln, and a pale sport from Viviand Morel.
Middle row : Alberic Lunden, Puritan, Val d’Andorre, Condor, Mrs.
C. H. Wheeler, Florence Davis, Etoile de Lyon, John Dyer. Front row :
Sunflower, Madame Baco, Sarah Oiven, Excelsior, Avalanche, Lord
Brooke, Amos Perry, Madame J. Laing. The blooms in this stand were
splendid, being uniformly of good shape and colour. Mr. G. Goldsmith,
gardener to Sir E. G. Loder, Leonardslee, Horsham, was second ; Mr.
Duncan, gardener to C. J. Lucas, Esq., Warnham Court, Horsham,
third, and Mr. Wallis, gardener to Mrs. Mews, Hartwell, Hartfleld,
fourth. For twenty-four incurved, in not less than eighteen varieties,
Mr. Ritchings, gardener to Dr. Frankland, Reigate, was first with
compact blooms of fine form. They consisted of — Back row : Baron
Hirsch, Lord Alcester, Violet Tomlin, Golden Empress, Empress of
India, N. Davis, Golden Emoress, Baron Hirsch. Middle row: Jeanne
d’Arc, Prince Alfred, Princess of Wales, Miss M. A. Ilaggas, Violet
Tomlin, Lord Wolseley, Jeanne d’Arc. Front row : Lady Hardinge,
Nil Desperandum, Mrs. G. Bundle, Mrs. Dixon, Cherub, G. Glenny,
Mrs. G. Bundle, and Jardin des Plantes. Mr. Goldsmith was second
with larger blooms, which, however, were not so well finished, and Mr.
Penford, gardener to Sir F. Fitzwygram, Leigh Park, Havant, third.
Equal fourth prizes were accorded to Messrs. Heasman and Standing.
There were ten competitors in the class for twelve incurved, distinct,
Mr. Fowler, gardener to Mrs. Hall, Barrow Hill, Henfield, being first.
The flowers were of fair size and substance. The blooms in the back
row were Camille Flammarion, John Lambert, Ami Hoste, Prince
Alfred. Middle row : Miss Haggas, Lord Wolseley, Mrs. Heale, Madame
Darrier. Front row: Alfred Lyne, Jeanne d’Arc, Violet Tomlin, and
Novelty. Mr. Horscroft, gardener to T. Potter, Esq., Ardingly, was a
fair second ; Mr. Tourle, gardener to F. Barchard, Esq., Uckfield, and
Mr. Baker, gardener to F. H. Brady, Esq., Burgess Hill, fourth.

Mr. Horscroft was a good first for twelve Japanese, distinct, staging
— back row : Viviand Morel, Edwin Molyneux, Florence Davis, Colonel
W. B. Smith. Middle row : Avalanche, Gloire du Rocher, Madame J.
Laing, Puritan. Front row : W. H. Lincoln, Louise Leroy, C. Becket,
and Miss Anna Hartshorn. The second prize went to Mr. Fowler ; the
third to Mr. Emery, gardener to M. G. Megaw, Esq , Avoca, Eastbourne ;
and the fourth to Mr. Sayers, gardener to Mrs. Cook, The Hall, Nutley,
Uckfield. Mr. Emery was first for six Japanese, distinct, with Mrs. C.
Harman Payne, Edwin Molyneux, Florence Davis, Viviand Morel,
W. H. Lincoln, and E. A. Carri^re. Mr. Baker was second, Messrs. W.
Miles & Co., West Brighton Nurseries, being third. Mr. Heasman was
first for six Anemones, staging Jean Marty, Margouluie, Empress, Mens.
Chas. Lebocqz, Mrs. Judge Benedict, and Grand Alveole. Mr. Penford
was second, Mr. Tourle third, and Mr. H. Harris fourth. Mr. Heasman
was first for six reflexed, showing Cloth of Gold, King of Crimsons, Dr.
Sharp, Golden Christine, Mrs. Forsyth, and Pink Christine. Mr.
Ritchings was a good second, Mr. Penford third, and Mr. Hart, Shore-
ham, fourth. Mr. Duncan was first for six incurved, one variety,
with Jeanne d’Arc ; Mr. Jupp second with Princess of Wales ; Mr.

Fowler third with Madame Darrier ; and Mr. Baker fourth with
Jeanne d’Arc.

Mr. Duncan was first for six Japanese, one variety, with handsome
examples of E. Molyneux ; Mr. Horscroft second with Viviand Morel ;
Mr. H. Head, The Drive Nursery, Hove, third, with the same variety ;
and Mr. Slaughter, fourth, also with Viviand Morel. Mr. Duncan was
first for six Japanese, white, staging Ava'aache in good form ; Mr.
Slaughter being second, Mr. Tourle third ; and Mr. Heasman fourth.
Mr. Baker was first for six yellow Japanese with fine Sunflowers ; Mr.
Duncan sec3nd with the same kind ; Mr. Slaughter third with W. H.
Lincoln, and Mr. Baker fourth. Mrs, S. Coleman, West End, Henfield,
was first for twelve Pompons with charming flowers ; Mr. Harris
second ; Mr. Blake, gardener to P. C. G. Roper, Esq , Polegate,
third ; and Mr. G. Hart fourth. Specimen plants were shown in grand
condition, Messrs. G. Hart, E. Meachen, A. Scutt, and Jas. Hill being
amongst the most successful exhibitors in these classes.

Miscellaneous exhibits were numerous, and included a collection of
fruit from Messrs. J. Cheal & Son, Lowfield Nursery, Crawley ; bulbs
from Messrs. Tilley Bros., Brighton ; Orchids and Palms from Mr. H.
Garnett, gardener to R. G. Fletcher, Esq., Patcham ; Chrysanthemums
from Mr. W. Wells, Red Hill ; and fruit, bulbs and Orchids from Messrs.
W. Balchin & Son, Hassocks Nursery, Sussex.

SOUTHAMPTON. — November 7th and 8th.

After a lapse of several years, through want of support financially,
the Royal Southampton Horticultural Society ventured upon holding
an autumn Exhibition this year on the dates named, in the
Victoria Hall. Prom a horticultural point of view it was a success.
The exhibits, if not numerous, possessed quality. The arrangements
were, as they always are here, quite perfect, under the guidance of Mr.

S. Fuidge, the Secretary.

Cut blooms formed the principal part of the Exhibition. The
leading class was that for twenty-four, twelve Japanese and twelve
incurved, the first prize going to Mr. G. Inglefield, gardener to Sir J. W.
Kelk, Bart. His best blooms were — Japanese : Col. W. B. Smith,

E. Molyneux, Mdlle. M. Hoste, Etoile de Lyon, W. H. Lincoln, W. H.
Tricker, Avalanche, Mrs. F. Jameson, Le Verseau (good), Alberic
Lunden, and Sunflower. Incurved : Golden Empress, Empress of
India, Emily Dale, Prince Alfred, Miss Haggas, Lord Alcester, Lord
Wolseley, Princess of Wales, Jeanne d’Arc, Empress Eugfiuie, Queen of
England, and Mrs. N. Davis. The second prize went to Mr. G. Hughes,
gardener to W. Baring, E^q., Norman Court, Salisbury, with equally good
incurved, but falling away in Japanese. Mr. Penford, gardener to Sir

F. Fitzwygram, Bart., M.P., Leigh Park, Havant, was third.

The next important class was for twenty-four blooms, not more than
two of one variety. Mr. Inglefield again led the way, closely followed
by Mr. Hughes and Mr. Penford in the order named. Mr. Inglefield
was also first for twelve Japanese and twelve incurved, the second
prizes in both cases going to Mr. Hughes. For twelve blooms, not more
than two of any one variety, Mr. Hughes was first. Mr. Budd, gardener
to F. G. Dalgety, Esq., Lockerby Hall, Romsey, was second ; and Mr.
Penford third.

Plants were well shown. For the best collection, arranged in a space
60 feet square, Mr. G. Busby, gardener to Colonel F. Willan, Thorn Hill,
Bitterns, was an easy first, his plants being dwarf and carrying
good blooms. Second, Mr. F. Rossman, florist, Shirley. For four
Japanese, Mr. E. Rose, gardener to Dr. Allden, The Firs, Bassett, was
first with fine specimens of Lady Selborne and Mdlle. Lacroix, closely
followed by Mr. E. Carr, gardener to W. A. Gillett, Esq., Fair Oak,
Bishopstoke. For a single specimen Japanese, Mr. E. Carr was easily
first with Madame Bertie Rendatler, 5 feet through ; and Mr. Rose
second. For a group of miscellaneous plants arranged for effect, Mr. W.
Peel was first with a very light arrangement, closely followed by Mr.
E. Wills, nurseryman, Shirley.

Fruit was good throughout. In the class for three distinct varieties
Mr. W. Saunders, Junction Road, Andover, was first ; and Mr. W.
Mitchell, gardener to J. W. Flemming, Esq., Chilworth Manor, second.
For two bunches of black Grapes Mr. T. Hall, gardener to S. Montagu,
Esq., M.P., South Stoneham, was first with fine Alicante. Mr. Mitchell
was second. Apples and Pears were well shown by Mr. G. Bushby, Mr.

T. Hall, Mr. S. H. Goodwin, Meredith, Maidstone ; and Mr. J. Miles,
gardener to W. Perkins, Esq., Portswood. Vegetables were best staged
by Mr. Inglefield and Mr. Bushby.

Messrs. George Bunyard & Co., Maidstone, Kent, sent 100 dishes of
Apples, which were greatly admired. Collections of plants not for
competition also came from Mr. Wills ; Major Montagu Day, Terrace
House ; Messrs. Toogood & Sons, Southampton ; W. H. Rogers, Red
Lodge Nursery, Southampton ; and Mr. B. Ladhams, which helped to
make the Show attractive.

WATFORD. — November 7th and 8th.

As anticipated, the Watford Chrysanthemum Show has proved a
great success, there being really a gay Exhibition in the Clarendon Hall
on the above dates. The number of entries were about the same as
last year, but the blooms in colour and excellence generally were
certainly in advance of any previous season.

The President of the Society, the Earl of Clarendon, gives it most
substantial support, not only by the interest he takes therein, but by
the magnificent group that year after year he contributes for decoration.
On this occasion Mr. Myers, his head gardener, exceeded his previous
efforts by placing in the centre of the hall the finest group ever seen

November 9, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

431

here. The Chrysanthemuma were very fine, and the foliage plants
choice. Many plants of Clerodendron fallax brightened the front of the
group.

The competing groups were well worthy of admiration, and of the
first in the miscellaneous class was one tastefully arranged and finished.
The credit of the arrangement goes to Mr. Neve, gardener to C. Van
Raalto, Esq., Aldenham Abbey, whose skill was conspicuously shown
this year in other parts of the Exhibition. The second prize, which fell
to Lord Esher (gardener, Mr. Brown), was also worthy of mention.

The classes in Division 1 were open to any growers, but the
competitors were practically all local, and we fancy their merits could
not well be exceeded. The competition between the groups which took
the first and second prizes was very close, but to Mr. C. E. Keyser,
Warren House, Stanmore, was awarded the premier honour, and he also
took the silver cup (value 5 guineas) for the best group of Chrysan¬
themums in the Show, and the silver medal for the best exhibit. The
second prize fell to the energetic Hon. Secretary, Mr. C. R. Humbert
(gardener, Mr. Ashdown). The flowers and foliage of both exhibits
were exceptionally good, and the colours well harmonised in arrange¬
ment. The groups in the other divisions sent by H. H. Gibbs,
Esq., W. Gillilan, Esq., R. T. Browse, Esq., Mrs. Robins, G. J. Beer,
Esq., and W. B. Hawkins, Esq., also attracted considerable attention.

The cut blooms were of great excellence, and the judges were more
than surprised at the number of good blooms shown. Mr. C. Van Raalte
was again prominent, and in the open classes was first for twenty,
four incurved varieties, twenty-four Japanese varieties, and six incurved
blooms, in addition to which he took the prize for the best incurved
bloom in the Show, the specimen being Madame Barrier. Similar
honours were taken by Mr. Beckett, gardener to H. H. Gibbs, Esq. Mr.
C. E. Keyser secured the prize for the best Japanese bloom with a grand
specimen of Viviand Morel. The exhibits by Mr. T. F. Blackwell dis¬
played some good standard blooms, and there was very strong competi¬
tion in the class for white Japanese blooms of one variety. In the open
class for twelve Japanese some superb flowers were shown by Mr.
Fortnum. These are a few of the principal exhibits among the many
that were staged. In the other divisions there were also some very
fine flowers, prizes being taken by Mr. K. D’Arcy, the Earl of Essex,
A. G. Lucas, Esq., R. Henty, Esq., and numerous other gentlemen.
Mr. Fox had some excellent blooms in the classes open to amateurs who
do not employ a gardener. It was gratifying also to see the cottagers’
classes so well filled.

The table decorations and bouquets were a distinct and beautiful
feature of the Show, and the whole of the exhibits were good. From
the body of the hall visitors proceeded to the gallery, where, it is said,
was set out the most magnificent show of vegetables ever seen anywhere.
The exhibits were so excellent throughout that it would be extremely
difficult to go into detail.

The exhibition of fruit was also splendid ; in fact, taking the Show
all through, we question whether the Society has ever been so successful
as in their present venture.

LEEDS PAXTON. — November 7th and 8th.

The fifth annual Show of the Leeds Paxton Chrysanthemum Society
was held in the City Hall on November 7th and 8th. The numerous
classes were not only well filled but the competition in most cases was
close. The cut blooms were the leading feature of the Show.

For the eighteen incurved, not less than fourteen varieties, the first prize
£5 and a 7-guineas challenge cup, were won by G. B. Cockburn, Esq.,
Lingdale Lodge, Claughton, Birkenhead. His flowers, reading from
left to right, were Lord Alce.ster, Mons. R. Bahuant, Queen of
England, Lord Alcester, Miss Violet Tomlin, Queen of England,
Miss Violet Tomlin, Jeanne d’Arc, Golden Empress of India, Ami
Hoste, Jeanne d’Arc, John Lambert, Miss M. Haggas, Madame Barrier,
John Salter, Jardin des Plantes, Mr. Coleman, and Princess of Wales.
The second prize fell to Mr. Jacobs, Cragge Road, Rawdon.

The class for eighteen Japanese, for similar prize money and cup
of above value, fell to the same exhibitor, Mr. Cockburn. The blooms
in the winning stand were Etoile de Lyon, Mrs. F. Jameson, Princess
May, Mrs. E. W. Clark, Mrs. F. Jameson, Stanstead White, Mons.
E. Bunard, Stanstead White, E. Molyneux, Florence Davis, W. Tricker,
Gloire de Rocher, Viviand Morel, W. Tricker, Colonel W. B. Smith,
Boule d’Or, Avalanche, Viviand Morel. The blooms of Japanese, both in
this and other classes, were excellent, far above the average shown in
other years, in size, depth, and quality. The second prize went
to Rev. W. B. Thatcher of Cleat Hall, Stourbridge. This class drew no
less than twelve exhibitors. In the class for twelve incurved, the Earl
of Harrington (gardener, Mr. J. H. Goodacre) carried off the first prize.
For the same number of Japanese C. J. Ormerod, Esq., of Brighouse
(gardener, Mr. A. Barber), was first. In the remaining open class
the winners were Sir Jas. Kitson (gardener, Mr. Grix), Mr. Bowling
(gardener, Mr. Moore), and Mrs. Tetley (gardener, Mr. Eastwood).

The local class, confined to a radius of seven miles from the City
Hall, for a cup value £10 lOs. and a prize of £5, brought four entries.
A. Jacobs, Esq., gained first honours, by this means securing the cup,
he having won it twice in succession. Sir James Kitson (gardener, Mr.
Grix) was a very close second, Mr. Jacobs gaining the winning point
with his Japs. Mr. Grix’s incurved were both larger and better flowers.

The groups of Chrysanthemums were not up to the usual standard,
only one group, shown by Mrs. Tetley (gardener, Mr. Eastwood), was at
all worthy of note, he very easily securing the first prize, Judges with¬
holding the second prize. The specimen plants of Chrysanthemums

were very well shown, Mrs. Tetley and C. F. Firth, Esq., of Adel (gar¬
dener, Mr. J. Linfoot), taking the principal prizes in the different classes.
Groups arranged for effect were poor, only two exhibitors staging.
E. B. Faber, Esq., Harrogate (gardener, Mr. Townsend), secured first
prize ; Mr. Sunley of Monk Fryston getting second. In the local
class for a group Mr. P. Bowering easily secured first prize.

Table plants were very well shown. Sir J. Kitson securing prizes
in two classes. Fruit and vegetables were also staged in excellent con¬
dition.

Messrs. Charlesworth, Shuttleworth & Co., of Bradford, staged a
magnificent display of Orchids ; Mr. W. Crossley had a fine collection
of Palms for decorative purposes ; and Mr. Taylor also showed a stand
of plants. Messrs. G. Bunyard, of Maidstone, sent a fine collection of
150 varieties of Apples and Pears ; and Mr. Green staged a fine collec¬
tion of Yorkshire-grown fruit, about sixty varieties.

NORTHAMPTON. — November 8th and 9th.

The twenty-second annual Show of the Northamptonshire Chrys¬
anthemum Society was held in the Corn Exchange of the town on the
above dates. The Exhibition was excellent in every way, the entries
being large in many of the principal classes, and the competition
remarkably keen. The cut blooms, mere especially in the Japanese
section, were of a high order of merit, the specimen plants and groups
also being very noteworthy. Fruit, Vegetables, Primulas, and table
plants were extensively and admirably shown, table decorations being
also very fine. Space will not permit of a detailed report being given,
the prizewinners in the principal classes only are therefore mentioned.

Mr. Reeve, The Gardens, Cliftonville, was first in the class for a
group of Chrysanthemums arranged in a space not exceeding 8 feet by
7 feet 6 inches. The plants were dwarf, well flowered, and the arrange¬
ment excellent. For six Japanese, distinct varieties, not dwarf trained,
Mr. Gwillam, gardener to Mrs. Shepard, was a good first, showing
Margot, Source d’Or, Miss Gordon, Mdlle. Lacroix, Val d’Andorre,
and \V. H. Lincoln. Mr. Manning, Kingsley Park, was second ; and
Mr. Reeve third. Mr. Gwillam was first for four Japanese in distinct
varieties, Mr. Reeve being second. For one' Japanese Mr. Gwillam was
again first with a fine plant of W. H. Lincoln, and Mr. Reeve second
with Wm. Tricker. Mr. Gwillam was also first for six specimen
plants of large flowering varieties with finely flowered plants of Mrs.
Dixon, White Venus, John Salter, Mr. G. Glenny, Guernsey Nugget, and
Mrs. Bundle. Mr. Manning was a good second. For four Pompons,
distinct, Mr. Gwillam again took the premier position, showing Elsie
Dordan, Nellie Rainford, Fremy, and Soeur Melanie. Mr. Copson,
gardener to Mrs. Phipps, Collingtree, was second ; and Mr. Manning
third. For one specimen Pompon Mr. Gwillam was first with White
Cedo Nulli ; Mr. Copson second with the same variety ; and Mr.
Manning third with Mdlle. Maither.

For a group arranged in a space of 6 feet by 6 feet, open to amateur
growers only, Mr. Hemmings, 43, Hood Street, Northampton, was first
with a splendid arrangement ; Mr. Kirby, 29, Milton Street, Kingsley,
being second ; and Mr. C. Richardson, 10, Artizan Street, Northampton,
third. Mr. J. Barkaway, 71, Long Thruft Street, Northampton, was
first in the amateurs’ class for three Japanese, not dwarf trained. The
plants, which included Val d’Andorre, L’ Adorable, and Mdlle. Lacroix,
were well grown and flowered. Mr. C. Seaton, Great Houghton, was
second ; and Mr. H. Law, 38, Hood Street, Northampton, third. The
chief prizewinners in the remainder of the amateurs’ classes for plants
in pots were Messrs. W. Kirby, E. Bellham, H. Law, J. Barkaway,
C. Seaton, H. G. Dunkley, and W. F. Henman.

Mr. Copson was first for eighteen incurved distinct, showing clean,
shapely blooms of — back row : Lord Alcester, Lord Wolseley, Empress
of India, Mons. R. Bahuant, Queen of England, Alfred Salter. Middle
row : John Doughty, Princess of Wales, Ami Hoste, Jeanne d’Arc,
Camille Flammarion, John Lambert, Front row : Hero of Stoke
Newington, Madame Barrier, Empress Eugenie, Mr. Brunlees, Princess
Teck, and Lady Dorothy. Mr. Cole, gardener to Earl Spencer, was
second, and Mr. Pearce, gardener to S. Loder, Esq., third. For twelve
incurved, distinct, Mr. Copson was a splendid first with — back row :
Lord Alcester, Mons. R. Bahuant, Empress of India, Lord Wolseley.
Middle row ; Alfred Salter, Jeanne d’Arc, John Doughty, Queen of
England. Front row: Mr. Brunlees, Prince Alfred, Lady Dorothy, and
Hero of Stoke Newington. Mr. Cole was second, and Mr. Tipler, gar¬
dener to M, M. Smith, Esq., Aylesbury, third. Mr. Copson was first for
six incurved, showing Lord Alcester, John Doughty, Alfred Salter, Queen
of England, Lord Wolseley, and Empress of India in excellent form.
Mr. Coles was second, and Mr. J. Kightley, gardener to Sir H. Wake,
third. Mr. Kightley was first for six incurved, one variety, with beauti¬
ful examples of Jeanne d’Arc, and Mr. Copson second with Lord Alcester.

Mr. W. Pearce was first for eighteen distinct Japanese. There were
six stands, the first being composed of handsome clean blooms of — back
row: Mrs. E. W. Clarke, W. H. Lincoln, Viviand Morel, Stanstead
White, Edwin Molyneux, Etoile de Lyon. Middle row : Avalanche,
Comte de Germiny, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Mrs. F. Jameson, Florence
Davis, Boule d’Or. Front row : Mons. Bernard, Puritan, Mrs. C. W.
Wheeler, Bouquet des Dames, J. Stanborough Dibben, and Wm. Tricker.
Mr. J. Copson was a good second, and Mr. J- Cole third. There were
six competitors in the class for twelve Japanese, distinct, the competition
being remarkably keen, Mr. W. Pearce being eventually placed first.
The stand consisted of — back row ; W. H. Lincoln, Viviand Morel,
Florence Davis, Beauty of Castle Hill. Middle row : Louis Boehmer,
Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Gloire du Rocher, Wm. Tricker. Front row : Mr.

482

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 9, 1893,

A. H. Neve, W. K. Woodcock, J. Stanborough Dibben, and Bouquet des
Dames. Mr, J. Copson was a good second, and Mr. Cole third. Mr.
Cole was first for six Japanese, staging grand flowers of Etoile de Lyon,
E. Molyneux, Colonel W. B. Smith, Mrs. E. W. Clarke, Sunflower, and
Viviand Morel. Mr. J. Copson was a close second, and Mr. Alexander,
gardener to Messrs. Westley & Sons, Blisworth, third. For six Japanese,
one variety, Mr. J. Kightley was first with grand blooms of Sunflower,
Mr. Tipler being second with the same variety, and Mr. Alexander third
with Viviand Morel.

In the amateurs’ class for eighteen incurved in not less than twelve
varieties Mr. W. Issitt, 84, Princess Street, Kettering, was a good first,
Mr. Hemmings second, and Mr. Dunkley third. For twelve incurved,
distinct, Mr. Hemmings was a good first, Mr. Issitt second, and Mr.
Dunkley third. Mr. Issitt was first for twelve Japanese with very
handsome blooms, Mr. Kirby being second, and Mr. Dunkley third.
For six Japanese Mr. Issitt was first, Mr. Dunkley second, and Mr.
Kirby third.

Miscellaneous exhibits were not numerous, that of Messrs. T. Perkins
and Sons, Drapery, Northampton, consisting of grandly coloured
Apples and fine Pears, being by far the most prominent. The same
firm also decorated the bandstand and platform with Chrysanthemums
and other plants in an artistic and highly creditable manner. Mr. Cole,
Althoip Gardens, showed six handsome blooms of Mrs, Alpheus
Hardy ; and Mr. Colchester, Ipswich, arranged a stand of his Ichthemic
guano.

PUTNEY. — November 8th and 9th,

The sixteenth Exhibition of the Putney and Wandsworth Chrys¬
anthemum Society was held in the Cromwell Hall, Putney, on the
dates named. Five excellent groups were placed in competition, the
first prize (silver cup) arrangement of Mr. S. Mynett, gardener to Col.
Poe, C.B., Ashburton, Putney Heath, being remarkable for the superior
quality of the blooms as well as tasteful association — one of the best
groups of the season up to date. Mr. John French, Ambleside, Wimbledon
Park, was a very strong second ; G. Allen, Esq , St. John’s, Putney Hill,
a most creditable third ; and Mr. J. Williamson, gardener to Thos. Jay,
Esq., Holmwood, Putney Hill, fourth ; an extra prize being awarded to
Mr. W. Tew, gardener to Mrs. E. Gordon, Westcombe Lodge, Wimbledon
Common.

Altogether creditable groups of eighteen plants were staged by
amateurs, the silver cup collection, exhibited by W. B. Rogers, Esq.,
19, Carlton Road, Putney, being of great excellence, as were the second
prize plants of Alfred Lass, Esq., Sandown Lodge, Upper Richmond
Road, Putney ; G. W. Lambert, Esq., 6, Northumberland Avenue,
Putney, being a most creditable third.

The most successful exhibitors of specimen plants were Mr. J. Port-
bury, gardener to W. N. Froy, Esq., Ripon House, Putney Heath ; and
Mr. C. Bentley, gardener to Capt. V’’ J. Bos worth. Cedar Court,
Roehampton, whose specimens displayed ’derable cultural skill.

The incurved cut blooms were fresh ana neat, the Japanese full and
bright. Mr. J. Dark, gardener to Jas. Hooker, Esq., Lomond House,
Putney, was first in the class for twenty-four incurved, and Mr.
Portbury second. Mr. S. Mynett was first with twelve good blooms,
and Mr. W. J. Wright, Th Jrove, Wimbledon Park, third. Mr. Port¬
bury won the first position with twenty-four, and also twelve Japanese,
Messrs. Wright and Mynett being second respectively in those classes.
Mr. Wright was first with reflexed and second with Pompons, Mr.
Bentley being first with the latter ; all very good .

The prizes for miscellaneous groups of plants were won, first by Mr.
J. Portbury with a charming arrangement, and second by Mr.
Macgregor, gardener to the Dowager Lady Hay, North House, Putney
Heath.

Mr. J. F. McLeo\ gardener to J. P. Morgan, Esq., Dover House,
Roehampton, exhibited a large and highly meritorious group of plants
not for competition, which added materially to the interest of a bright
and beautiful show. Fruit and vegetables were well represented, and
the Show was admirably managed by Mr. J. Moore, Hon. Secretary and
G, H. Pitt, Esq., the much respected Treasurer of the Society.

Peaches and N'ectarlnes. — Earliest Houses, — These may be of
two descriptions, according to the varieties they are planted with, and
the time the fruit is required to be ripe. 1. Very early house, planted
with Alexander, Waterloo, Early Louise, and Early Leopold Peaches,
and Advance (Early Rivers is a better variety). Nectarine to have fruit
ripe in April. 2, Earliest house on the old system, or with second-early
and midseason high flavoured varieties, as Hale’s Early, Early Alfred,
Dymond, Stirling Castle, and Royal George Peaches, with Lord Napier
and Elruge (sorne prefer Stanwick Elruge, but it casts its fruit in ripen¬
ing in light soils), Nectarines, to have ripe fruit in May. Alexander
and Waterloo Peaches are very much alike ; some growers prefer one and
some the other, but both are high coloured fruits of good size and fair
quality. Their flowers are medium-sized, and set well on spurs or on

the annual growths at their points and base, the intermediate buds
between those parts being frequently cast. Early Louise and Early
Leopold Peaches have small flowers, and laden with pollen are excellent
for fertilizing other varieties. Early Leopold is, perhaps, the best setter
of the early Peaches, and its fruits, also Early Louise’s, are better
flavoured than either Alexander or Waterloo, both of which are cling¬
stones, but the other two are freestones. Colour, of course, is every¬
thing in a marketing early-forced Peach, but the distinction must be
made between the fruits for safe guidance. All the others named are
of superior quality, high colour, and good size.

To have fruit ripe at the times named the houses maybe closed about
the middle of this month, fire heat not being applied until the beginning
of December. This will allow the trees plenty of time, and express
forcing — having the fruit ripe in three months from starting — is not
safe, and only possible with potted trees. The house may be kept close,
but admitting air freely above 50°, employing fire heat only to prevent
the temperature falling below 35°. Trees that have not been started
before will grow gently and safely under this treatment, whilst those
forced before will start freely at the usual time without any preliminary
excitement. The more slowly the trees are excited the stronger will be
blossoms and chances of a good set of fruit. The outside border should
be protected with a few inches thickness of leaves, and a little litter over
them to prevent their blowing about, so as to exclude frost. Inside
borders should have a thorough soaking of water, but if the lights have
been off and the soil has been well moistened through to the drainage
water will not be required for several weeks. Where the roof lights
have remained on it may be necessary to repeat the watering, and if the
trees are weakly, the soil friable, and the drainage good a soaking of
liquid manure not too strong will tend to a more vigorous start and
growth afterwards. Sprinkle the trees occasionally in the morning and
afternoon of bright days, but do not keep them dripping with water,
damping the borders and floors being sufficient in dull weather, and
only then when the surfaces become dry.

Succession Houses. — All the leaves are off, except in the latest house,
where they should not be forcibly removed, though the trellis may be
sharply rapped or the trees brushed over with a light broom when they
part readily from the trees. When they are all off unfasten the trees
from the trellis, prune them, thoroughly cleanse them and the house,
lime-washing the walls, and if need be paint the woodwork and trellis.
Tie the trees to the trellis, leaving room for the branches to swell, tight
tying being conducive of gum. Remove the surface soil without much
disturbance of the roots, and supply fresh loam, sprinkling over it
4 ozs. of the following mixture per square yard : Three parts steamed
bonemeal and one part kainit, following with a good watering. The
manorial elements will be held by the soil and be in a suitable form for
taking up by the roots when the trees start into growth. The roof lights
may be removed, and be kept off until the buds commence swelling and
are showing colour in spring. This is the best practice with late houses,
especially unheated, so as to retard the blossoms ; otherwise keep the
houses as cool as possible.

Fresh Trees, Lifting, and Root-pruning. — Trees for planting in
houses are best two, three or four years trained to walls outdoors or
trellises in cool houses, and prepared for lifting by digging round them
a year previously. Such trees can be lifted with an abundance of fibres,
and being carefully planted they force well the first season, not bring¬
ing them on too rapidly, and taking a moderate crop. This is better
than selecting young trees unfurnished with bearing wood, as these
cannot bear any fruit until the second year, and not much the first
three years to do them justice, hence the advantage of planting trees in
an already bearing state. Any lifting or root-pruning should be per¬
formed at once, as the trees will often push adventitious roots freely
into the fresh or moved soil, and the roots cut form a callus and push
new fibres quickly in spring. Lifting and root-pruning is unquestion¬
ably one of the best preventives of gumming, and bringing trees not
setting and stoning their fruits properly into a satisfactory condition
in those respects. Done carefully and early (as soon as the leaves have
fallen or before) it does not interfere with the following season’s crop of
fruit.

Strawberries In Pots. — All plants intended for early forcing
should now be in frames, with a view to protect them from heavy rains,
snow and severe frosts only. They should be well raised up to the glass
and have the pots plunged in ashes, from whence they can be
drafted into the houses as required. It is a bad practice to stack the
plants in sawdust or earth in a cone-like manner against walls or place
them in Peach houses with open ventilators, where, from the passing
currents of air, evaporation is constant and excessive, which only
waste the energies of the plants and not unfrequently destroys the
roots at the sides of the pots. Drought at the roots is the great bane
of the Strawberry, therefore those in frames must never be neglected,
the soil always being kept moist but not excessively wet. Plants for

midseason and late forcing may be plunged in ashes in a sheltered

situation, affording a light covering of bracken or straw in severe
weather.

Plants of La Grosse Sucree and Vicomtesse H6ricart de Thury must
be started early in next month to afford ripe fruit in March either in
the Peach house started then or in the Strawberry house. Some start
the earliest plants in bottom heat, making up a bed of leaves about
2 feet in height and place the plants in a frame upon it, packing the

spaces between the pots with damp leaves. The bottom heat at the

base of the pots is not allowed to exceed 65°, the top heat being kept
cool, 50° not being exceeded, and when the weather is mild drawing off

November 9, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

483

the lights. This tends to promote activity at the roots and to steadily
push the crowns without their developing leaves. After three weeks of
this treatment the pots are gradually withdrawn from the bed, raising
them so that the plants will bear the temperature of the Peach or
Strawberry house without a check, as they would receive one if they were
taken from a warm bed direct to the shelves. This practice is good
where the plants are late, but in the case of those with well developed
crowns and abundant roots the slight bottom heat is not necessary.
Nevertheless bottom heat is one of the best aids in early forcing.

Those having the convenience of low pits, with a pathway inside, for
forcing Strawberries, find it a considerable advantage to start the earliest
plants in bottom heat, raising the bed well up so that the plants are near
the glass, and not allowing the heat at the base of the pots to exceed
65°, nor the top heat to rise above 50° without full ventilation, and only
using fire heat to maintain it at 50° by day and 45° at night in severe
weather. Under these conditions the plants push the trusses strongly,
and by the time they are clear of the crowns, the bottom heat will have
declined so that the plants can be removed to their fruiting quarters
without giving them any check, or it must be effected by withdrawing
the pots gradually. Time is gained and the setting is generally satis¬
factory under such conditions. Watering must be judiciously performed,
and if worms have gained an entrance into the pots dislodge them with
lime water, rectifying any defects of drainage.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

Tomatoes. — Strong young plants in 11-inch or slightly smaller
pots give the best late autumn and winter crops, and pay well for close
attention. If there is head room do not stop the leading growths, as by
allowing these to extend it will be possible to set good clusters of fruit
for ripening early next spring. Pinch out all side shoots that form, and
if the plants are all heavily furnished with leaves, reduce the latter to
about half of their present size with a view to giving the lower clusters
of fruit a better chance to ripen. According as the soil becomes crowded
with roots give rich top-dressings, liquid manure also being applied
occasionally. Under this liberal treatment each plant ought to give not
less than 8 lbs. of fruit, this ripening at a time when Tomatoes are
somewhat scarce. An occasional rich top-dressing is also needed by old
plants that have set, or are setting fruit freely, and all superfluous
growth should be closely removed from them. Now that the colder
weather has set in Tomatoes must have plenty of fire heat, accompanied
by a circulation of dry air, fungoid diseases being inevitable
in a moist atmosphere. The fruit will set freely at this late
date under such conditions if only the stems are smartly tapped by a
padded stick every morning towards twelve o’clock. If the “ white fly ”
is troublesome dress the hot-water pipes with flowers of sulphur mixed
with milk, and make them as hot as possible occasionally. The fumes
thus generated will gradually, but surely, exterminate the fly, and prove
a good preventive of disease.

Mushrooms.— High temperature, especially when brought about
by fire heat, is very prejudicial to Mushrooms. Only enough should be
turned on to keep the temperature of a house in which beds are required
to produce Mushrooms constantly from falling much below 50°, an
increase of 5° being the maximum with fire heat. When subjected to
higher temperatures the produce is thin and not nearly so succulent as
Mushrooms grown without the aid of fire heat, the beds also becoming
more quickly exhausted. Only when fire heat is used is there any need
to damp the walls and floors daily. An occasional sprinkling will not
be harmful, but beware of saturating the beds by a too free use of the
syringe. The loss of moisture to an injurious extent ought to be pre¬
vented by means of a thick covering of soft strawy litter, and when it
is necessary to water owing to the beds being too dry to commence
cropping, or wants moistening after a first crop has been taken, give
enough warm water at once or at the most twice to well moisten both
the soil and manure to a good depth, merely wetting the surface being
of no avail. If there is room form other beds, these, if properly
managed, yielding extra heavy crops next February or March, if not
earlier.

Beds either in the open or in unheated sheds should be heavily
covered with a strawy litter, and the drier this is the warmer the beds
underneath will keep. When the litter next to the soil becomes damp
and musty remove it, and substitute some that is fresh and dry. If any
of the later formed beds fail to produce Mushrooms during November
they may not do so till next spring, and none should be too hurriedly
condemned and broken up,

Asparagus. — This choice vegetable is very easily forced, but unless
a supply can be maintained throughout the winter at not very wide
intervals, it is scarcely advisable to start forcing so early as this. It
most also be remembered that roots once forced are of no further value,
and well established beds ought not lightly to be broken up unless there
are others to meet the demand for naturally grown shoots next spring.
Hard forcing ought in any case to be practised, an excess of fire heat being
certain to force out nothing but poor weakly shoots. If deep hea'ed
pits are available fill two lights at a lime with a gentle hotbed largely
composed of leaves, a layer of rich soil being placed on the top of these.
Pack the carefully lifted roots somewhat closely on the soil and cover
with about 4 inches of rich moist soil. Then if the top heat does not
exceed 55° to 60°, strong succulent shoots of a good length will be forth¬
coming in from three weeks to a month of the time the start was made.
Asparagus can also be forced without the aid of fire heat, frames set on
hotbeds being used, that is if no brick pits are available. In the
course of another three weeks start more roots in the same manner, and

never let the soil about any of them become dry, also do not subject the
roots to a dangerously strong bottom heat.

Seakale. — The roots of Seakale have now experienced the desired
check by being frosted somewhat, and without which they do not force
so readily as desirable. Forming hotbeds over the crowns where they
are established in the ground is a slow, laborious process, the better plan
being to lift two or three dozen strong young roots at a time, or better
still, enough for two or three batches at one time, and to sink these up
to the crowns in large pots or deep boxes filled with rich moist soil. At
this early date, if the pots are set in a heated Mushroom house, progress
is slow, a dark corner not far from the hot-water pipes in a forcing
house being a more suitable position. In order to be certain of w’ell
blanched succulent tops, complete darkness, as well as a sufficiency of
heat and moisture, is necessary, and the crowns should therefore be
heavily banked over with either leaf soil or cocoa-nut fibre refuse, a
depth of 5 inches being none too much. Start more crowns every ten
days or a fortnight. Lily White is the best variety for forcing, but is
not so hardy as the old form. When severe frosts are anticipated, either
lift the bulk of the roots that are to be eventually forced, laying them
in closely in good soil where they can be covered with litter or mats,
or else bank over the crowns with fine soil, this being drawn up to
them much as Potatoes are moulded up.

Rhubarb. — The early Rhubarb has now had a fairly good rest, the
severe frost of October 31st also being of service in preparing the clumps
for forcing. Any variety can be forced, though Early Albert, Hawkes’
Champagne, and Johnstone’s St. Martin’s are the best for the purpose,
earliness, colour of stalk, and good flavour beiuij characteristics of these
excellent forms. Comparatively young roots could 'oe lifted, placed in
large pots, and forced very much the same as advised in the case of Sea¬
kale, while large old clumps could be shifted to either a forcing house,
warm corner over boiler. Mushroom house, or warm cellar, only enough
soil either left on or placed over the roots to keep them moist being
needed. A gentle heat is preferable, and soil about the roots should
not be allowed to become at all dry. Rhubarb may also be had by
Christmas by forcing in the old-fashioned way, the clumps having the
soil about them loosened prior to being covered by either regular
Rhubarb pots, tins discarded by sugar refiners, old flour tubs, or deep
boxes. There should be lids on the tops of these coverings to admit of
ready access to the Rhubarb, and they ought to be heavily banked over
with enough leaves and stable manure to generate a fairly brisk bottom
heat, or say from 75° to 80°, a close look-out being kept for any sudden
and dangerous rise that might take place after a change from cold to
mild weather.

If

: hE Hi^E-K^EPER.

1

APIARIAN NOTES.

Hints for Beginners.

{^Continued from page. 387.)

What the bee-keeper has to consider in order to make the most
of bees at his command is, how long will the honey flow continue ?
If for five or six weeks, make an increase of stock up till the
beginning of that time, as then more hives with fertile and prolific
queens are placed into the field, and swarms alwiys work better,
while by the renewal of queens and combs all risks of losing hives
through effete queens are gone, and finer honey and healthier hives
are secured. But on the other hand, if the honey flow at the best
can last only two or three weeks the stock should be limited, and
if desirable an increase postponed until the great honey flow is
past. Arrange to have the greatest number of workers in the field
at the proper time. Try to have them swarm a month at least
before the flow begins, and if the hives then are not in strength to
your mind join several together. Prevent stocks having young
fertile queens from swarming by providing ample breeding space.

In my own case the Clover is not usually profuse, although I
have taken from one hive 130 lbs. at a time, and nearly 7 cwt. from
six, which were exhibited at Glasgow in 187G. The present year
from several stocks (spring count) 200 lbs. have been taken from a
hive. The Wild Thyme and Heather are what I prepare my hives to
catch, and they are so manipulated that every one of them is equal
in strength to a full sized non-swarmed stock. In most cases these
Heather stocks come up of their own accord to that strength, but
if the spring and early summer have been backward I sometimes
transfer brood combs to nuclei formed early in the season, as they
are at all times most reliable. In late Heather seasons it is almost
futile to keep stocks under full strength, as such will not be
profitable, neither are hives with prolific queens, unless they are
ahead of the fertility of the queen. This is the rock on which
many bee-keepers wreck themselves, and keeping bees in too small
hives while bees and queen are determined on breeding is a wrong
policy.

I do not want to sulphur my bees, but they must not be allowed
to increase at a time when they can be more profitably employed.

434

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 9, 1893.

The number of stocks for wintering should be regulated before the
close of the Heather season, and by having the hives properly
arranged when set down this is sometimes easily accomplis^hed.
Occasionally it is better to do this before we move them, at the
end of the Clover season, when the Heather is likely to be of short
duration. But at Leadhills the Heather lasts so long that many
hives are more reliable than few, but in all cases they should be
strong. At “midheather,” if practicable, remove surplus honey and
join stocks. In cases where there is not much honey nor brood
remove all empty combs from both, transfer to one of them all
combs having honey, and brood along with the bees. Preserve the
empty combs for future use if white, but if blackened with age
melt them and take what wax they yield. It ought to be a rule to
have no combs older than twelve months in any hive, as the honey
from white combs is superior, while supers above them are magnifi¬
cent and more pure than those above blackened with age.

Sometimes the bees may miss the Heather till after it is half
gone, but it is a fact that it yields more honey then than in its
earlier stages, and one week’s fine weather then with double strength
hives will enable them to store 100 lbs. each. As I have stated,
the bee-keeper must study the best and proper time to perform
the various manipulations according to circumstances and the best
of his judgment, but even then it may sometimes happen that the
best has not always been done. Still, work at all times for the
best and in hopes of favourable results. — A Lanaekshire Bee¬
keeper, jjg continued.)

The Season of 1893.

As regards East Yorkshire, the past season has been a good one ;
never have I had honey of such quality before. From early spring
to the present time the weather has been favourable for the bees.
They were at work soon after 7 a m. on October 19th on our
Michaelmas Daisies, and at four in the afternoon were busy still.
Our take of honey has been a good one, and very few swarms
have been the result. My hives were well tired up, and having
plenty of room, not one of my bar-frame hives swarmed, and been
strong in bees, gave a good surplus. Large hives are far the best.
The standard hive, with a capacity for holding ten frames and a
crate of twenty-one sections, is a mere toy and a source of trouble.
Where the honey season is over by the end of July the non-swarm¬
ing hives give the best results. Large hives, with plenty of bees
and young queens, are necessary if a good surplus is to be taken.

The Lanarkshire hive has again done well with me, one of mine
occupying six divisions ; it was a pleasure to see the busy toilers
pouring in and out in crowds. This hive was worked for extracted
honey. From another I took some good sections, for which I
secured a first prize for twelve at our local show. — G. B.

PKESENTATION OF HONEY TO THE LORD MAYOR.

An interesting ceremony took place in the Mansion House on
November 1st, when a number of gentlemen, representing the British
Bee-keepers’ Association, offered the Lord Mayor of London a collection
of British honey to the amount of 1 cwt. The presentation was
made in the State drawing-room by Sir J. Whitehead, M.P., in the
absence of the President of the Association, Baroness Burdett-Coutts.

Sir J. Whitehead said that the honey had come from all parts of the
United Kingdom — England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. His connec¬
tion with the Association arose from the fact that he, as Pastmaster of
the Fruiterers' Company, had taken a very great interest in the cultiva¬
tion of fruit in this country, and all experts in fruit culture seemed to
think that bees were essential for the fertilisation of the flowers. The
net profit to be derived from the cultivation of honey depended on the
successful treatment of bees, anl the object of the Association was to
impart the knowledge of the cultivation of bees, and possibly to recreate
the industry. He had in his own knowledge a case in his native county
of Westmoreland, where a small tradesman had eighty hives. During
the spring and summer, when the flowers in the fields were in bloom,
and up to the time the bees had swarmed and made their casts he kept
them in the valleys, and afterwards took them on to the moors where
they could gather honey from the Heather, and the result of the eighty
hives, after paying all expenses, was a net profit of 55s. per hive, or
£100. The county of Kent had in some respect been taken as a typical
county of what might be done with regard to bee culture, and it was
estimated that there alone no less than 400 tons of honey could be
grown, provided that those who had hives were sufficiently skilled in the
art of cultivation. That 400 tons, sold at 9d. a pound, would give to
that county alone no less than £33,600.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Dicksons & Co., 1, Waterloo Place, Edinburgh. — Forest Trees, Shrubs
and Coniferce.

W. L. Lewis & Co., Southgate, London, N. — Special Catalogue of
Orchids.

Fotheringham & King, Dumfries, N.B. — Forest and Ornamental
Trees, It oses, and Fruit Trees.

•^•All correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should he written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Blood IVEanure (J. If. IF.). — Your letter arrived too late to enable
us to deal with the question in this issue, but it shall be referred to
next week.

Chrysanthemum Bloom (A. If. E."). — The distinctness or merits
of a Chrysanthemum can only be determined from well developed
blooms, and not from the small specimen you have forwarded. The
other matter shall have attention in our next issue.

Scale on Kentla Beaf (IF. Z). J/.).— The small brown scale can
now be attacked effectively with an insecticide. Fir tree oil is very
efficacious and harmless to plants, so also is Lemon oil, petroleum
emulsion, Kilmright, Chelsea blight composition, carbolic and nicotine
soaps, and other advertised insecticides, provided each is used at the
strength advised in the instructions accompanying the several prepara¬
tions. The insecticide should be applied with a brush, and the insects
dislodged, and afterwards cleanse the plants with clear tepid water.
Spirit of wine, diluted with about half its quantity of water, and applied
with a small brush, so as to dislodge the pest, is a cleanly method of
removing the scale. Methylated spirit may also be used very effectively,
just moistening a brush with it and then wetting the scale insects with
it. If the fronds are young the methylated spirit should be diluted
similar to the spirit of wine ; on mature fronds it either may be used
neat, or only employing enough to wet the insects.

Fuchsias from Seed (^Amateur'). — Raising Fuchsias from seed is
certainly, as you suggest, “interesting to amateurs,” but it is very
probable that only a few of the seedlings will on flowering prove equal
to existing varieties. The pods should be carefully gathered when ripe.
As the seeds are enveloped in a pulp it is necessary, in order to preserve
them, to cleanse them effectually. This is done by washing ; bruise the
berries with the hand, and mix them with water ; as soon as the pulp is
all washed off pass the liquor through a hair-sieve fine enough to catch
the seed, wash it repeatedly till it is quite clean, then dry it gradually ;
put it up in brown paper, and keep it in a dry room till spring. Sow
then in a mixture of light sandy loam and peat, cover slightly, and place
the pots in a gentle hotbed. When the seedlings are half an inch high
transplant them in rows across pots 5 inches wide — these will hold
about twenty or thirty plants each — and then replace them in the hot¬
bed. In these pots they may remain for a month or six weeks, and then
they will require placing singly into 3-inch pots. Place them for a few
days in a cold frame, and keep rather close and shaded till fresh roots
are formed, and then they are then able to bear the full light and a
moderate admission of air. Give plenty of the latter as they acquire
strength, and when the pots are full of roots give another shift into
4-incb pots, and let them remain in these till they flower. Many of
them will flower the first year, and then is the time to make a selection.
The selected ones should be repotted, and grown to the end of the
season to prove them. Cuttings of the best may be inserted, and the
whole kept in the coolest part of the greenhouse during the following
winter.

Rooting IMCarguerlte Cuttings (^Reader'). — The cuttings should
be of the growing shoots, and about 3 inches in length, severing each
transversely below a joint, and removing the leaves about half way up.
The cuttings may be inserted singly in small pots (2 J inches in diameter),
or five or six cuttings round the edge of a 4-inch pot. One crock is
sufficient for drainage, with a little rough material over it, for the small
pot ; but an inch or more of material should be provided for the larger
size. Fill the pots firmly with soil, composed of equal parts lea? mould
and light loam passed through a half-inch sieve, adding a sixth of
sharp sand, thoroughly mixed. Sprinkle about a quarter of an inch of
sand on the top, and insert the cuttings with a blunt dibber, just deep
enough to allow the base of each to rest on the sand carried down by
the dibber, and about half the length of the cutting, or down to the
leaves. Press the soil round the cuttings, particularly their base, and
afford a gentle watering through a fine-rosed waterpot. Stand the pots
on ashes or similar material in a house having a temperature of 40° to
50°, and cover with a bellglass or handlight, and keep close until rooted.
The glass or handlight may be taken off each dull morning for about an
hour for the dissipation of excessive moisture, and in the evening the

November 9, 189?. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

435

glass should be wiped dry. The cuttings will be rooted well in about a
month, when they should be gradually hardened off. This plan is
better than rooting the cuttings in bottom heat, for the latter receive a
check more or less when they are removed from it, unless care is taken
to harden them off well beforehand. The large-flowered variety with
green leaves is Chrysanthemum Halleri ; the small one with glaucous
leaves is C. frutescens.

Banksla Integrrlfolla QB. 21.'). — This plant, to which you allude, has
been figured in the Journal of Horticulture, but as you desire “ to see it
again,” we reproduce the woodcut (fig 63) with the description. Banksias
are a peculiar genus of plants, the species forming which contribute
largely to the native vegetation of New South Wales and other districts
in the great Australian continent. These plants with their relatives the
Proteas were at one time much grown in large establishments in
England, but of late years they have been almost lost, and are now
seldom seen except in botanic gardens. Some are perhaps more strange
than beautiful, but there are several which are by no means devoid of
attractions, and would add to the interest of many gardens. Of these
the Australian Honeysuckle (Banksia integrifolia) is especially note¬
worthy as a free-growing and floriferous plant, which recommendations
are not possessed by all its allies. The popular name appears somewhat
far-fetched, as are many other popular names ; but it does not refer to
the habit of the plant as might be supposed, but to the quantity of

FIG. 63. — BANKSIA INTEGRIFOLIA. {Reduced.)

nectar secreted in the flowers. Banksia integrifolia is a shrubby plant,
usually of moderate size in cultivation, but attaining much greater
dimensions in its native land, where some of its near relatives rise to a
height of 50 feet. The flowers are yellowish in a cylindrical head at the
ends of the branches. The leaves are narrow and undivided, dark
green, and firm in texture. The plant succeeds in light turfy loam and
peat, and requires only the temperature of a greenhouse or conservatory,
supplying water carefully when not in flower.

Bose Heps (W, //.) —These are not in any way injured by
remaining on the trees to be frozen to some extent ; indeed, it is
questionable if severe frosts are detrimental to their germination.
Gather them when ripe, open them, and store the seeds in damp cocoa-
nut fibre refuse or leaf mould till the spring. They may be sown either
in pots or boxes in a frame on a mild hotbed, or in drills in the
open ground in March. Artificial heat accelerates germination, but
as the first essential of the Rose is hardiness some raisers sow in the
open on the assumption that only seedlings that prove their undoubted
hardiness are reliable for propagation. Some of the seeds are often
slow in germinating, therefore there must be no undue haste in dis¬
turbing the beds, or withholding water from pots or boxes in which the
seeds have been sown. Cover the seeds an inch deep, and keep the
soil uniformly moist by shading to arrest evaporation, and watering
to supply moisture as it may be required.

Hames of Fruits. — Notice. — We have pleasure in naming good
typical fruits (when the names are discoverable) for the convenience of
regular subscribers, who are the growers of such fruit, and not col¬
lectors of specimens from non-subscribers. This latter procedure is
wholly irregular, and we trust that none of our readers will allow
themselves to be made the mediums in infringing our rules. Special
attention is directed to the following decision, the object of which is

to discourage the growth of inferior and promote the culture of superior
varieties. In consequence of the large number of loorthless Apples and
Pears sent to this office to be named, it has been decided to name only
sjiecimens and varieties of approved merit, and to reject the inferior,
ivhich are not worth sending or growing. The names and addresses of
senders of fruit to be named must in all cases be enclosed with the
specimens, whether letters referring to the fruit are sent by post or
not. The names are not necessarily required for publication, initials
sufficing for that. Only six specimens can be named at once, and any
beyond that number cannot be preserved. They should be sent on the
first indication of change towards ripening. Dessert Pears cannot be
named in a hard green state. (/. W. Allen). — 1, Cox’s Orange
Pippin ; 2, Tower of Glamis ; 3, Spanish Bon Chretien ; 4, Besi Vaet ;
5, probably Lemon Pippin. (II. 0. S.). — 2, Golden Noble ; 3, Lewis’
Incomparable ; 4, Margil, (J. 21 A'. C). — 1, Cox’s Pomona ; 2, Golden
Spire ; 3, Wadhurst Pippin ; 4, Marie Louise ; 5, Golden Winter Pear-
main ; 6, Urbaniste. (Colvile Broivne). — 1, Waltham Abbey Seedling ;
2, Aromatic Russet. (F. J. Gray). — Pear not known. It has nothing
to recommend it. You had better graft the tree. (E. R.). — 1, Uvedale’s
St. Germain; 2, Beurrb d’Amanlis ; 3, Ne Plus Meuris ; 4, Vicar of
Winkfield. (TP. Strugnell). — Apparently a small wrinkled Seville
Orange ; large fruit, Diospyros Kaki, a native of Japan, sometimes
imported into this country as a dried sweetmeat ; small rosy seeds,
probably the fruit of Magnolia acuminata, but in the absence of leaves
and other characteristics it is impossible to identify with accuracy ;
black fruit, Juglans nigra or Black Walnut, not edible. (A. D.). —
Cox’s Orange Pippin.

Hames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
(TT’’. Strugnell). — Prickly Plant, Colletiaspinoi5a. (21. B., Betteshanger).
— Florists’ flowers, varieties of Dahlia glabrata. (L. B.). — Laslia
anceps. (11, L. 21.). — Cypripedium caudatum. (A. D.). — Jasminum
Sambac flore-pleno. (H, W. C.). — Impatiens Hookeri.

OOVBNT GARDEN MARKET. — November 8th.

Market quiet, well supplied.

Apples, per bushel

Cobs .

Grapes per lb.
Lemons, case . .

FRUIT,

Beans, Kidney, per lb.

Beet, Red, dozen . . .

Carrots, bunch . 0 4 0 6

Cauliflowers, dozen .... 2 0 3 0

Celery, bundle . 10 13

Coleworts, dozen bunches 2 0 4 0

Cucumbers, dozen ,,.,10 36

Endive, dozen . 13 16

Herbs, bunch . 0 3 0 0

Leeks, bunch . 0 2 0 0

Lettuce, dozen . 0 9 10

Mushrooms, punnet . . ..09 10

s.

d.

s.

d.

d.

9.

d

.. 2

0 to 7

6

Peaches, per doz .

0

0 to

0

0

0

32

6

Plums, per half sieve

0

0

0

0

.. 0

6

2

0

St. Michael Pines, each . .

2

0

3

0

.. 10

0

15

0

VEGETABLES.

s.

d.

s.

d.

9.

d.

9.

d

.. 0

3

to 0

4

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2 to

0

0

.. 1

0

0

0

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

0

Parsley, dozen bunches
Parsnips, dozen ..
Potatoes, per cwt.
Salsafy, bundle . .
Scorzonera, bundle
Shallots, per lb. ..
Spinach, bushel ..
Tomatoes, per lb.
Turnips, bunch ..

1 6
0 3

0 0
0 0
0 0
0 7
0 6

AVERAGE WHOLESALE PRICES.— CUT FLOWERS.

Orchid Blooms in variety,
the price is very low.

s.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms .. 3
Azalea, dozen sprays.. .. 1

Bouvardias, bunch ., .. 0

Camellias, dozen blooms . . 1

Carnations, 12 blooms . . 0

Chrysanthemums, dozen

bunches . 3

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis. 0

Eucharis, dozen . 4

Gardenias, per dozen . . 2

Lilac (French) per bunch 3
Lilium laneifolium, dozen

blooms . 1

Lilium longiflorum,perdoz. 6
Maidenhair Fern, dozen

bunches . 4

Marguerites, 12 bunches . . 2

Mignonette, 12 bunches . . 2

s.

Arbor Vitse (golden) dozen 6
Aspidistra, per dozen . . 18
Aspidistra, specimen plant 5
Chrysanthemums, per doz. 4
„ large plants, each 1
Dracaena terminalis, per

dozen . 18

Dracaena viridis, dozen . . 9

Ericas, per dozen . . . . 9

Euonymns,var., dozen .. 6

Evergreens, in var., dozen 6
Perns, in variety, dozen .. 4

Chrysanthemum blooms very plentiful this season, hence

d.

9.

d

8.

d.

9.

d.

0 to 5

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

Oto 12

0

0

1

6

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

9

0

6

1

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

0

3

0

buuches .

4

0

6

0

6

2

0

Primula (double), dozen

Sprays .

0

6

1

0

0

6

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

6

3

0

Roses (iudoor), dozen

0

6

1

6

0

6

0

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

0

0

4

0

„ Yellow, dozen .. ..

o

0

4

0

6

6

0

Tuberoses. 12 blooms. .

0

4

0

6

Violets, Parme (French),

0

3

0

per bunch .

2

6

3

0

0

9

0

Violets, Czar (French), per

bunch .

2

0

2

6

0

6

0

Violets (English), dozen

0

4

0

buuches .

1

6

2

0

0

4

0

PLANTS

IN POTS.

d.

s.

d.

3.

d.

8.

d.

0 to 12

0

Ferns (smalli per hundred

4

0

to 6

0

0

36

0

Ficus elastica, each ..

1

0

7

6

0

10

6

Foliage plants, var., each..

2

0

10

0

0

9

0

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen 12

0

24

0

0

2

0

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

3

0

4

0

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . ,

6

0

12

0

0

42

0

Mignonette, per doz .

6

0

9

0

0

24

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

0

18

0

Palms, in var., each ..

1

0

15

0

0

18

0

„ (specimens) ..

21

0

63

0

0

24

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

2

0

0

0

0

18

0

Solanums, per dozen. . ..

9

0

12

0

436

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 9, 1893.

PROFITABLE LIVE STOCK.

Many a grazier, struggling under stress of difficulties
intensified and rendered almost insurmountable by the long
liot dry summer, would be inclined to question if there is such
a thing as profitable live stock at the present time. If so, it is
certain that he has none of it. It is pi'ecisely because of the
scarcity of stock in this country upon which any profit is
possible that attention is called to the matter now. Inferior
stock is plentiful enough, because of the general carelessness
both in breeding and feeding, and we might add in selection.
In most instances the fault dates from the very beginning of a
tenancy, when the difficulty of obtaining really useful animals
is considered so great that recourse is had to the Michaelmas
auction sales, where so-called “ bargains ” are plentiful.
Numbers of inferior animals are got together, costing just as
much — often a great deal more — to keep, even in healthy con¬
dition, as really well-bred stock. Yet a little inquiry would
enable any farmer to ascertain where better stock could be
had. In this, as in other matter’s, demand brings supply, and
it is surely worth while to purchase animals upon which, under
good management, some profit is a certainty.

Taking cattle first, we know that while prices for ordinary
beasts have fallen below any possibility of profit, ripe compact
animals of moderate size have always had a prompt sale at
remunerative prices. Said a recent market report, “ The trade
is overdone with meaty stores,” or beasts about half ripe for
the butcher. Not only is the metropolitan market g'utted with
this class of stock (much of it imported), but it is always
largely in evidence at every provincial market. It is true
enough that there is money to be made out of “ meaty stores,”
but it does not go into the pockets of the poor grazier. He
sells them at a loss ; it is the keen dealer who buys cheaply,
fattens, and sells at a profit. The beasts come into his hands
tolerably forward in condition, so that the fattening process is
as speedy as it is certain. If only the grazier had a little more
staying power he might do so much better than part with his
stores just when they are ready to “pay” for high feeding.
That the general practice in this matter is radically wrong is
certain, yet there is no mystery about the right way ; it is
summed up in very few words. Have only well-bred cattle;
either a pure breed or a good ci’oss breed. Keep on the calf
flesh, keep up condition always, but avoid the rash and ex¬
travagant forcing which involves the risk of heavy losses from
apoplexy. Give equal attention to shelter and to a sound
wholesome dietary. Let there be no exposure to heavy rain
or cold cutting wind, no lying down on sodden litter, no
inhaling foul air. Let the dietary be mixed wholesome, a wise
combination of bulk with nutriment, preferably of home-grown
produce— hay, silage, straw, corn, roots, green fodder, afford a
sufficient range for a most nourishing dietary. Have no feeding
by line and lule, know your cat'le individually, be much among
them, understand the requirements and temperament of every
one of them, and then wise discretion and sound judgment will
guide weight and measure in the feeding. See that the water
is pure, that crib and manger are clean. Allow no brutality ;
hindly. gentle treatment is all important apart from any mere
sentimental feelings. When the autumnal growth of herbage
on pastures is consumed, get the beasts settled for the winter in
yards with broad commodious hovels. In doing this place the
more forward larger animals together separate from the others ;
if large and small, weak and strong, are turned in together, the

weaker literally go to the wall. We have seen them driven out
of the hovels into the open yard, where they remain afraid to
venture inside again. This often happens at nights with fatal
results if rough weather prevails. The frightened animals will
get what shelter is possible from the yard enclosures, but the
standing there for hours, very likely in several inches of water,
with rain or snow falling upon them, and gusts of wind sweeping
round the yard, has led to colds, husk, consumption, and eventu¬
ally the loss of many a valuable beast.

Worse than this is the battle for life going on every winter
among cattle in open pastures, without shelter of any sort but
the hedgerows, and with very short commons indeed. They
have in the way of food to clear up the fog, which at best is
a mixture of brown, dry, or decayed herbage and green growth, all
sadly innutritions. A little hay is thrown about the pasture,
forming a dietary barely sufficient to sustain vital heat. The
famished beasts lose flesh so fast, and the strain upon them is
so severe and prolonged, that it is wonderful to find so many
of them surviving an ordeal which is alike cruel to them and
ruinous to their owners.

WOEK ON THE HOME FARM.

With Mangolds already up to 303. a ton, a full root crop is some¬
thing to be proud of this autumn. Let there be no more delay in
getting them off the land into clamps, made by a road at points easy of
access ; a long ridge 10 or 12 feet wide at base, and 6 or 8 feet
in height, answers best. Cover thickly with litter, over which place
soil sufficiently thick to keep out frost, leaving air vents made with
2-inch drain pipes along the ridge. Treat early sown Swedes in a
similar manner, or place them in small circular heaps in fields where
sheep folding is to be done. Such folds on upland pasture are now in
full action, and we have seen some good practice this month in folding
a late growth on Clover layers, with the ploughs and drills following
closely for Wheat.

Never was there better weather for winter corn sowing, and all other
autumn sown crops. Glad were we recently to hear a keen discussion
in a provincial market train, of the respective merits of Vetches, Rye,
Coleseed, and Cabbage. Plenty of such and other green fodder crops
to use with corn and relieve the pasture, are wanted everywhere. The
dictum of Professor Wrightson that the great secret of successful farm¬
ing is to make stock pay, and the corn will then take care of itself, is
sound enough. Let work on the home farm at this season of the year
tend that way, by judicious sheep folding, by careful tending of stock
in cow, cattle yard, stable, and piggery. At farms generally the
judicious production of milk, butter, cheese, pork, poultry, eggs, should
all tend to profit now. Pullets selected from several broods in spring
are giving a supply of eggs now that is invaluable. In this highly
important manner it is just a question of timely selection, of number and
also of breeds. We have had an excellent supply of winter eggs from
white and coloured Dorkings, from cross-bred fowls and others, but
never from those misnamed everlasting layers, the Hamburghs. It
should not be forgotten that a warm poultry house must be had for
winter layers, and they must be well fed. Let them also have a cosy
dusting place, shut in from cold winds, but so placed as to catch every
ray of winter sunshine. Warmth, shelter, and good food tell, and are
indispensable. _

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamden Square. London.

Lat.51° 32'40'' N. : Loa?. 0'^ 8' 0" W.; Altitude. Ill feet

Date.

9 A.M.

In the Day.

1 Bain.

1893.

October

and

November.

1 Barometer

1 at 32'^, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

luchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday . .

29

29-806

50-6

46-0

S.W.

49-6

56-7

46-8

88-9

42-5

0 010

Monday . .

30

29-898

41-9

39-2

N.

48-9

48-7

37-1

84-9

34-0

—

Tuesday . .

31

30-126

34-4

32-2

N.

46-2

44-2

30-9

77-8

27-2

—

W ednesday

1

30-009

38-4

33-3

S.W.

44-1

49-6

27-8

60-1

26 0

0-254

Thursday . .

2

29-687

47-3

47-1

S.W.

45-1

52-2

41-9

63-0

35-8

0-012

Friday

3

29-941

48-7

47-4

S.W.

46-0

59-8

42-8

83-0

38-4

—

Saturday . .

4

29^881

53-8

51-9

S.W.

47-9

55-8

48-3

64-2

47-2

C-020

29-907

45-0

42-4

46-8

52-4

39-4

74-6

35-9

0 296

REMARKS.

29th. — Brilliant morning; occasional cloud in afternoon; overcast evening.

30th. — Almost cloudless throughout.

31st. — Cloudless almost throughout but some detached cumulus at midday.

1st. — Overcast till 3.45 r.M. ; slight rain at intervals after.

2nd. — Continuous rain from 3.30 a.m. to 9 A.M. ; occasional drizzle in morning ; over¬
cast afternoon and night.

3rd. — Pine about sunrise; overcast and dull from 8 A.M. to noon; frequent bright
sunshine after 1.30 1>.M.

4th. — Bright early ; overcast from 9 A.M., frequent drizzle from 10.30 A.M , and rain
from 0.30 to 1.30 p.m. ; and overcast after.

At last we have a slightly cool week, not a cold one, but one slightly below the

average, of which there have been very few since January.— G. J. SYMONS

Norember 16, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

437

IT is many years since we have seen such heavy crops of
Apples as were grown this season, yet there is every likelihood
of the supply falling off very rapidly. As yet not a single early
or midseason variety that has come under my notice is keeping
really well, and, to all appearance, good Apples will be even scarcer
at midwinter than they often are after what may be termed a very
bad year for Apples. Duchess of Oldenburg was one of the first
to indicate what we were to expect. Finer, cleaner-looking fruit
of this variety I never gathered, yet within a fortnight of their
being ripe not one was fit to use. Black spots first showed on the
surface, and shortly after the disease, if such it may be termed)
spread to the core, the fruit eventually either bursting or turning
black. Irish Peach and Beauty of Bath among early dessert
varieties, and Lord Suffield, Keswick Codlin, and Ecklinville of
culinary sorts, all behaved very similarly, not a sound fruit being
left at a time when they ought to be on the point of ripening.
Manks Codlin being somewhat firmer kept rather better, but was
past its best early in October, or more than a month earlier than
usual. Warner’s King I have known keep well till the middle of
December, but hereabouts it is doubtful if there were any sound
fruit by October 7th. It was quite distressing to see the large,
clean-looking fruit of this variety becoming first spotted and then
black all over, but the tale of woe does not stop there. Tower of
Glamis is over, while Hollandbury, Lemon Pippin and Reinette de
Canada are giving signs of failing. Our sheet anchor, the Beauty
of Kent, of which we have several large trees, gave us heavy
crops as usual, but fully one-half of the fruits are spotted,
and instead of being good till February, there will be none
loft bv the middle of November. It is very doubtful if either
Lane’s Prince Albert, Bramley’s Seedling, or Lady Henniker
will keep at all well, though Wellington seems sound enough at
present.

Some of the dessert varieties are behaving better. King of the
Pippins, Adams’ Pearmain, Ross Nonpareil, and Court Pendft P14t,
though ripening somewhat out of season, being as yet quite sound
and good. Of Cox’s Orange Pippin we gathered heavier crops of
fine well-coloured fruits than usual, but these are keeping badly.
At least one-third of the fruits are already spotted, and I am much
afraid the rest will not keep long. When an Essex friend informed
me, late in September, that he had then sent large quantities of
this superior dessert Apple to the London markets, only getting
about 2s. 6d. per bushel for them, I blamed him for his pre¬
cipitancy, but probably he did the right thing after all. Since
then, or about a fortnight later, another large grower of hardy
fruit intimated that he also had sold some Cox’s Orange Pippin,
but either his samples were remarkably good or he found a better
market, as his returns were at the rate of 7s. 6d. per bushel. In
Somersetshire 3 peck baskets of Cox’s Orange Pippin only fetched
Is. 6d., and did not go off very readily at that price. Blenheim
Pippin being better known in country districts always sold well till
this season, but those fruiterers who store for winter sales are very
shy of their best paying Apple, and prices are very low indeed.
Blenheim Pippin has also been consigned to Covent Garden in
large numbers, and those who have sold the bulk of this variety
at fairly good prices will get the best of the bargain, as it is very
certain that few Blenheim Pippins will be found in a sound state

No. 699. — VoL. XXVII., Third Series.

in December — at any rate, not if they were grown in the south¬
western counties.

Nothing could well be more disheartening than the outcome of
this great season of plenty. Luckily the glutted state of the
markets quickly had the effect of making the owners of heavy
crops of Apples decide to at once convert these into cider. Persons
who had not the proper appliances for making cider sent their fruit
to those who were in a position to undertake the work at a fixed
charge, and at one time the latter were greatly overworked. Had
the bulk of orchard grown Apples been stored, there would, ere
this, have been so many heaps of rotten fruit to deplore the loss of,
and in any case this year’s experience must, to say the least, have
a very disheartening effect upon numerous fruit growers who have
been led to believe there are fortunes to be made in growing hardy
fruit.

It may be that it is only in certain districts that Apples are
keeping so badly, though the complaint of early ripening is general
enough. That they would ripen abnormally early was to be
expected, but surely it was not the excessive heat that is responsible
for the premature decay of the fruit. Presumably the American
summers are always hotter than ours, yet their Apples keep well,
and doubtless will not be long before they arrive in large
consignments. It may be that their selections of varieties suit
their climate in the same way that ours are the best, as a rule, for
this country. Some of our great fruit growers and exhibitors,
such as Messrs. Bunyard, Cheal, Pearson, Rivers, Watkins, Yeitch,
and others who have very complete collections of Apples, in¬
cluding, doubtless, the best of the American varieties, ought to
be able to supply some reliable information on this subject,
and will greatly oblige by doing so. Are any of the Newtown
Pippins, Baldwins, King of Tomkins County, and other American
Apples grown in this country in a superior condition ? I have
no doubt they will be finer in every way, but the question is
do they promise to keep better than our own popular varieties ?
If they do then ought more of them to be grown. Excep¬
tionally hot summers will doubtless be as few and far between
in the future as in the past, but all tbe same it is well to be
prepared for them. Already there are unmisCakeable signs that
the selections of late years, especially in the case of market
growers, have been too limited, those who formed them having
probably erred in going too much to the extreme in the opposite
direction of what our forefathers did. Apples pay best when
growers are fortunate enough to have good crops in years of
comparative scarcity, and this is more likely to happen when
twenty-four instead of about twelve varieties are grown in
quantity. Private growers are more given to plant a greater
number of varieties, and may perhaps overdo it occasionally, yet
may, occasionally, have good cause to be satisfied with what they
have done in the matter.

As yet I have not seen nor heard any attempt at explaining
the cause or causes of this premature decay of Apples. In several
cases the black spots under the skin were showing some time before
the fruit was gathered ; in others they developed very quickly
after storing. Either these unwelcome changes were brought
about by the excessive heat, or what is more likely, they would not
have occurred had there been no rainfall before the fruit was fit
to gather. That Apples, as a rule, would have been undersized
had the rain not fallen when it did was evident enough at one
time, but I cannot help thinking chemical changes had already
taken place, that is to say the starch and acids contained in them
were fast being converted into sugar when the change in the
weather came. Very premature ripening was prevented by a
better supply of sap, but can any scientific observer state what
would be the effect of the late addition of so much more watery
matter to fruit on the point of ripening ? Was it or was it not the
cause of our trouble ? Perhaps Mr. Abbey may be good enough to
express his views on this subject. — W. Iggulden, Somerset.

No. 2355. — VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

438

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 16, 1893.

FORCING BULBS.

Chrysanthemums, -wliich are now so infinite in variety and
attractive in appearance, supply our gardens with such a wealth of
flowers during the dullest months of the year, that the forcing of
bulbs may with advantage be delayed to a later period than was
formerly desirable. Although it is wise, even if not absolutely
necessary in many instances, to have a few Roman Hyacinths and
Narcissi in flower early in November, it is not till the middle of
December, or about Christmas-time, that forced flowers are in
great demand. Even then the late varieties of Chrysanthemums
supply an abundance of bloom ; still the bulk of them are over, and
variety among them being less, a change in floral fare is welcomed,
if for no other reason than to divert our thoughts from holding in
too light esteem the charms and usefulness of the “ Autumn
Queen,” an error which too long familiarity with things and beauty
sometimes begets.

The present is a good time to place in heat bulbs for flowering
at the time indicated. Roman Hyacinths rank among the most
useful for this purpose, as they may be brought into flower quickly
with but little risk of failure if good bulbs are obtained. It is
surprising what hard forcing they will bear with impunity, pro¬
vided suitable treatment is given them. If necessary it is quite
possible to have them in flower ten days after their introduction
in heat, if they have previously made a little more than an
inch of growth before being removed from the plunging material.
It is not often advisable to force them so rapidly, but whenever
the imperious demands of special occasions renders the practice
necessary it is well to be prepared with a safe plan of action.

Those which I brought into flower so quickly were managed in
the following way. Shallow boxes were placed over the hot-water
pipes in front of a pit ; the pots of Hyacinths being stood in these,
and a little cocoa-nut fibre packed around the base of the pots to
keep the soil in them from drying too quickly at that point by
reason of their close contact with the heated pipes. When the
requisite number of pots were placed in position they received a
thorough soaking with warm water, and were afterwards watered
almost every day, only failing to do so should the soil appear quite
wet when the usual time for watering arrived. No regular
temperatures were kept up, but a strong heat was maintained in
the pipes throughout, a little air being also left on the back of the
pit. This treatment, with a couple of syringings daily, resulted in
even potfuls of these useful flowers ten days after being placed
in heat. For a couple of days before their removal from the
pit they were put on pots near the glass, away from the hot-
water pipes, to accustom them to the loss of bottom heat before
being transferred to a much cooler temperature.

Tulips of the Due Yan Thol type bear hard forcing extremely
well, and if they are allowed to make fully 1^ inch of growth
before being taken from the plunging material, and then gradually
inured to light in cold pits, they are then in the right condition to
bring into flower quickly whenever there is a demand for them.
The Double Roman Narcissus is excelleijt for early forcing ; but
as soon as the improved form of Paper White (Snowflake) comes
in in bulk the first-named is not wanted. If the flowers are
required for cutting only the majority of Narcissi bear sharp
forcing well. I find, however, that pots of various sizes, containing
from five to nine bulbs, are extremely useful and effective for
arranging singly in vases ; those, therefore, that are required for
this purpose should be kept quite close to the glass in a rather
cooler temperature, otherwise the leaves become drawn and weedy
looking.

Whenever it is absolutely necessary to force potfuls intended
for vases on quickly they may be placed on a shelf near the glass
in a Cucumber house, or forcing house having a similar tempera¬
ture, till the flowers begin to show colour. If the pots are then
removed to a cooler structure both leaves and flower stems will
become considerably strengthened by the time the flowers are fully
expanded. Poeticus ornatus is a grand Narcissus for bringing on
in a gentle heat. If forced too sharply a large percentage of
flower buds which never open are produced. Sir Watkin, which is
now considerably reduced in price, is, I think, the variety of the
future. Hitherto it has been too choice to subject to sharp forcing,
but this season I hope to try its capabilities in that direction.

Freesias seem to become more popular each year, as their
culture is better understood. If the bulbs are potted in light rich
soil, the pots plunged in cocoa-nut fibre till an inch of growth has
been made, and are then removed to a shelf in a cool house, they
will succeed admirably. The earliest plants thrive well it grown
in an intermediate temperature. Allium neapolitanum is also an
extremely useful bulbous plant, which requires exactly the same
treatment as Freesias. It ought, I think, to be more generally
grown. ^

Much of the success or failure experienced in bulb forcing is

due to the manner in which this operation is performed. I find
there is a general tendency among young men to allow the soil to
get into about the same state of dryness before W'ater is given, no
matter what position the pots occupy, or what temperature they
are grown in. The effect of this is sometimes ruinous to the plants.
When growing in a strong heat, especially if the pots are near the
hot-water pipes, the soil ought to be kept constantly moist, for if
it becomes thoroughly dry many of the roots are destroyed. On
the other hand, when grown in cool houses where but little fire
heat is employed, the pots should ring sharply when rapped, before
water is given.

Notwithstanding much which has been said to the contrary, I
consider frequent applications of liquid manure to be of great
benefit in helping to swell the individual flowers up to their
fullest size ; for although each bulb already contains the embryo
flower spike, strong healthy roots are required to feed and develop
it, and in liquid manure these roots find stimulating food, in a form
most easily assimulated. — W.

SOME NEW VIOLAS.

On looking through my notes of new Violas for this year I find over a
hundred varieties altogether have come under my notice. In these
notes, however, I will deal principally with those sent out in 1893, and
include a few varieties of 1892 because of their great beauty, I will
refer to the new kinds yet to be introduced in another paper.

The early part of 1893 was all that could be wished for the Viola,
mild and genial, and with such a wealth of bloom everywhere. In the
south and the midlands, however, we had a very long spell of tropical
heat and drought, with a pitiless downpour of brilliant sun heat, which
drove vegetation into a state of misery, and Violas were in so many
instances during the summer scorched up, and they had to bear a
terrible infliction of brown aphis.

For bedding out many of the varieties in cultivation are very
suitable, but I have no intention of touching upon these exclusively. I
wish to draw attention to some of the best of the newer sorts.

Blue Bonnet (J. D. Stuart). — White with a broad edging or margin
of bright purple, and distinct.

Bridesmaid, (Dean). — Pale primrose and quite rayless and fine.

Comet (McKie). — Rich rosy purple with a darker centre, fine.

Blue Gown (Dr. Stuart). — Blue self, dwarf and very free blooming.

Blush Queen (Dr. Stuart). — White tinted with blush.

Bridal Wreath (Dr. Stuart). — Pure white, very like Sylvia.

3Irs. B. Fergusson (Irvine). — Pure snow white, good form, very fine.

Mrs. McDonald (Irvine). — Violet purple clouded with blue tinted
lilac, fine form.

Countess (McKie). — Shaded rosy plum and purple, fine.

Duchess (McKie). — Shaded lilac pink with lighter top petals, fine.

Edina (Dobbie & Co.). — A grand variety and so distinct ; rich dark
violet centre with a bright blue lilac margin, very handsome.

Favourite (Dobbie & Co.). — Light blue ; an excellent bedder.

Golden Ilahe (J. D. Stuart). — Deep yellow, good habit, a valuable
variety.

Hyacinth (Baxter). — Shaded white and lavender, blue centre, and
quite distinct.

Laveroch (J. D. Stuart), — A “skylark” style of flower, but an
improvement, and fine.

Lemon Queen (Dobbie & Co.). — A little deeper in colour than Brides¬
maid ; fine.

Magnet (McKie). — A rich coloured flower, and extra fine ; a very
handsome variety.

Mrs. Hay. — A very distinct striped flower, violet purple stripes and
white ground ; fine.

Peter Barr (Barr). — Yellow, bordered with pale pink ; a peculiar
flower, and really a miniature Pansy.

Picotee (Dr. Stuart), — White with a wire margin of blue lilac on
each petal, and small flowers, very pretty and distinct.

Roh Roy (Dobbie & Co.). — An improved “ Vernon Lee,” yellow, with
with the top petals chocolate coloured with small gold band on each.

Sylvia (Dr. Stuart). — Creamy white self, type of Countess of Hope-
toun.

White Flag (Baxter). — White, of great substance, and with long
footstalks.

White Duchess (Baxter). — This is the “Duchess of Fife” with a
white instead of yellow ground colour, a charming variety which will
become popular.

The foregoing 1 have seen, and they are of the ordinary large flower
section of Violas, but there are many others which were sent out last
year for the first time, some of which I have not seen, and of others the
plants came to harwi late in the spring and had no chance of doing well
owing to the very hot weather.

The pretty miniature section of the Violetta type has an earnest
champion in Mr. George Steel, late of Heatherslaw and now of Etal in
Dumfriesshire, who has discarded all Violas not of the Violetta type, so
as to devote attention entirely to the latter. Dr. Stuart of Chirnside
originated them, and is the raiser of Violetta and other pretty varieties.

The Violetta section is distinct in the smaller growth, w’hich is of
more procumbent habit, and in giving a profusion of small, well
shaped flowers, all remarkable for their strong violet fragrance and

NoYember 16, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

489

dwarf bedding habit. Violetta itself is a white, and other pretty varie¬
ties are Marginata, Lady in White, Old Gold, Summer Cloud, Jeannie
Turnbull, Mrs. Joseph Oliver, Maggie Steel, Mrs. George Finlay, and
others, and some charming new varieties to be sent out in the spring by
Mr. Steel. I have seen almost all, and there are many gems amongst
the newcomers.

Of the more recently introduced Violas the following are all fine —
viz., Annie King, Accushla, Colleen Bawn, Dorothy Tennant, Duchess of
Fife, Golden Gem, H. M. Stanley, H. W. Stuart, Mrs. Frater, Mary Gray,
Kothes, and Wonder. These are all acquisition to collections. — W. D.

DeNDROBIUM NOBILE.

Plants that have well ripened pseudo-bulbs, and have been
resting for some time, may be introduced again into heat, when
they will be induced to flower. The flowers are always useful, and
may with care and judgment be had over a lengthened period by
starting plants into growth at different times. Plants that have
completed their growth should be placed into a cool, dry, airy
position after they have been properly hardened. A late vinery
in which Grapes are hanging will be a good place for them. Even
in this position expose them to the sun, and give sufficient water
only to prevent their pseudo-bulbs shrivelling. — Specialist.

Orchids at Forest Hill.

Whilst passing hastily through the Stanstead Road Nurseries
of Messrs. J. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, last week, I noticed that
the Orchids made a good display. Several forms of Cattleya labiata
were specially good, and the same may be said of the numerous Cypri-
pediums. Amongst the latter the beautiful 0. Spicerianura was
most conspicuous, the flowers of this popular species always showing
up well. A few Odontoglossums were flowering, and the whole of
the plants, of which many are grown, presented a remarkably
healthy appearance. — C.

Disa Veitciii X tripetaloides.

This is a new hybrid raised at Kew, where, according to a
correspondent in the “ Garden and Forest,” it recently flowered
for the first time. As will be seen from its parentage, it combines
three distinct species, D. Veitchi being the result of crossing
D. grandiflora with D. racemosa. These hybrids are much easier
to cultivate than most Orchids, and they increase rapidly. The
new hybrid has a crowded rosette of sturdy green leaves, from the
centre of which springs a scape as thick as a swan’s quill, and

foot high. The flowers are as numerous as on D. racemosa,
nearly 2 inches across, and coloured deep rose. These tufted Disas
can be recommended to anyone in search of promising material to
breed from, as it is scarcely possible to make a mistake in crossing
and raising them from seed.

FLORAL NOMENCLATURE.

As to the proper pronuuciation of “ Gladiolus,” 1 may mention that
more than twenty years ago I asked a distinguished classical scholar, of
world-wide renown, for the correct pronunciation of that word. He
replied, “ The accent should be on the first syllable, as in Gladius ;
neither the i nor the o should be emphasised.” Since then I have
been content to follow such authority. The word, so rendered, may
not run off the tongue so trippingly as Gladiolus or Gladiolus, but that
it is correct I have, from that day, had no doubt. I have never heard,
as Mr. Woliey Dod states on page 399, the word in question pronounced
Gladjolus, but I have often heard great stress laid on the first syllable
and the following i (pronounced e) given very short, which might give
the effect of a j.

As to “ West Anglian’s ” letter (page 399), it would indeed be a con¬
summation devoutly to be wished, though scarcely to be hoped, even in
these days of County Council education, that every gardener should
possess a thorough knowledge of Latin, Greek, and French. Until that
event occurs there will be many mistakes in spelling and still more in
pronunciation ; but from perusing “ W. A.’s ” list of errors it seems very
probable that many of them arose from the endeavour to copy almost
illegible labels. As for myself I have always considered that the mastery
of long Latin, Greek, and French names, without a glimpse of their
meaning, is one of the gardener’s hardest tasks, and the more letter-
perfect he becomes in his self-imposed lesson the more I respect him for
his application. It is an easy thing for a man who is a fair classic and
modern linguist to remember these names, for each word has for him its

meaning ; not so for him who has no knowledge of any tongue butihis
own ; with him it has to be parrot-learning, infinitely more difficult.*
Then when a name is learnt it has often to be re-learnt, for land
folium becomes speciosum ; Spirma, Hoteia. Tritoma changes to
Kniphofia ; Hyacinthus to Galtonia ; while Clivia takes the place of
Himantophyllum. Gardeners may well afford to ignore the jibes of
thoughtless youth, in the knowledge that those of maturer judgment
fully recognise both the difficulties under which they labour and the
commendation they merit in successfully overcoming the same. —
S. W. F.

CULTURE OF FRANCOAS.

Francoas are exceedingly useful for the embellishment of the
greenhouse or conservatory or for house decoration, their elegant
appearance and floriferous character eminently suiting them for this
purpose. When associated with other plants the long white spikes of
F. ramosa, together with the beautiful pale red F. appendiculata, cannot
fail to evoke the admiration of everyone, and 1 feel sure that the more
they are known the more they will be appreciated. They are com¬
paratively easy of cultivation, and, although the usual time of flowering
is from July to September, may by a little judicious arrangement be
had in bloom nearly all the year round. A compost of good fibry loam,
leaf soil, and sharp sand will be found an excellent mixture for them.
For general decorative purposes plants in 7-inch or 8-inch pots are
large enough, but where large specimens are required 10-inch and
12-inch pots should be used.

Young plants may be raised either from seed, cuttings, or by division ;
all of which methods should be resorted to in order to procure a long
succession of bloom. Old plants that have been flowering throughout
the summer will now be making new growth, therefore no time should
be lost in dividing them. After the plants are turned out of the pots
divide them in two or three parts, and place in similar sized pots
to those in which they were previously grown. After repotting water
must be sparingly administered until the roots have taken full possession
of the new soil. During the winter a temperature of from 45° to 50°
should be maintained, and if attended to they will commence throwing
up their flower spike about the beginning of April. For propagating
by cuttings the offsets, which are freely produced from the base of the
old plants, should be procured. The cuttings should be inserted singly
in small pots filled with a similar compost to that recommended above.
Give water through a fine rose after insertion, to settle the soil, and stand
the cuttings in a temperature of from 50° to 55°. When well rooted they
should be placed in 5-inch pots, and grown in the temperature advised
for old plants. Immediately the roots reach the sides of the pots the
plants should be placed in others 7 inches or 8 inches in diameter.

Where the earliest flower spikes were not removed abundance of
seeds may now be procured, and these should be sown as soon as
gathered. In preparing the seed pan it is essential that good drainage
be obtained, after which fill with a mixture of light sandy soil. Scatter
the seeds thinly and evenly over the surface, slightly covering with
soil. Most growers recommend raising these plants in heat, but I prefer
growing them under cool treatment. It is of great importance that
the young plants be pricked into pots or pans when large enough where
they can have plenty of space and light, otherwise they will quickly
become drawn, and failure must be the result. Before the plants
become crowded they should be placed in 5-inch pots and stood on
a shelf in a cool house, giving subsequent repottings as may be necessary.
When the pots are full of roots liquid manure may be applied every
other watering with great advantage. In the spring, when all danger
of frost is over, the plants may be placed in a cold frame, letting them
remain there till the last week in August, when remove to the green¬
house. If the foregoing instructions are properly carried out a good
supply of flowers may be obtained. Some cuttings I inserted last autumn
are now flowering profusely, as also are many seedlings which were
raised at the same time. — G. Parrant,

THE CARNATION AS AN ANNUAL.

The first introduction of the Mirguerite Carnation was from the
Continent, and for usefulness as a decorative flower it is now grovvn
extensively. Mr. C. H. Herbert has been inspired to work on this strain
by cross-fertilisation, using a grand scarlet bizarre as a pollen parent
with very satisfactory results. The variety in colour, form, and marking
is greatly diversified. Some of the blooms are clean cut at the edge
approaching the petal of the stage varieties ; others are freely serrated
and beautifully fringed, whilst the colours are as varied as can be
conceived. Then the flaking, splashing, spotting, anl the feathering
adds greatly to their value. Blooms sent me by the raiser have stood
in water for more than a week, and they figured as a novelty and
excited a considerable amount of admiration at our Chrysanthemum
Show. The perfume is delightful, and the colours in the chaste green
setting are beautiful. . j .

For mixed beds and borders they will equal our old friend the
Verbena, and for window and conservatory decoration I can conceive
their rivalling the Cineraria, the Calceolaria, the Primula, and the
Cyclamen, as the warm tones during the cold months will be so cheering.
Mr. Herbert tells me that he is this season working on the same stock with
the yellow grounds and fancies, so that the possibilities as to the future
of the Carnation as an annual we may only imagine. — W. Wardile.

440

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 16, 1893.

Mr. Mawley’s Analysis.

With great respect for Mr. Mawley’s analysis, I yet think there is
something in Mr. Grahame’s reasoning. I have no doubt that Mr.
Mawley’s results are as near perfection as possible, but as these results
are expressed in “ crude figures,” it seems to me fair to state that the
new Roses present an insuperable difficulty to that mathematical
accuracy which should be expressed by figures. They do not afford the
same data for calculation as the other Roses, and therefore the results
founded on their data do not stand upon the same footing as the other
figures in the list. This is only an outside view. Mr. Mawley has
probably forgotten more about statistics than I ever knew, but it is well
sometimes to take outside views into consideration.

In the old “ Rose elections ” the opinions of rosarians were the only
data, and the result, of course, was only the general opinion ; but this
was, if the electors were numerous and representative enough, fairly
without cavil. — W. R. Raillem.

A GOOD Rose, like good wine, requires no special commendation or
assistance by the principle of selection, and as certain vintages year by
year work to the front in the estimation of connoisseurs, so a good Rose
as it becomes known is more and more cultivated, and therefore
exhibited by the best rosarians. Time therefore would do all that was
requisite in placing a good Rose in its proper position. Impostors soon
disappear, effete ones die out, and genuine good varieties work to the
front. If Mr. Mawley is, by an elaborate system, mathematically
correct, I think it would be satisfactory for him to clearly explain this
method.

To show that other authorities of high standing think ordinary
figures (the analysed results of the experience reported by a large
number of rosarians) to be sufficient to establish the position and
habits of all our greatest Roses, I would instance and recommend the
perusal of the R.H.S. report on the Rose Conference held at Chiswick
in 1889. This, in my opinion, is the most valuable digest on the cul¬
tivation of Roses, and the results thereof, which has yet been published.
Nothing but actual figures are there used or discussed, and the results
arrived at are given with clearness and mathematical precision. —
Charles J. Geahame, Croydon.

As Mr. Grahame (page 418) claims that he has friends who adopt
his views on the above matter, perhaps it would be well if they would
say so in the Journal of Horticulture. In the meantime allow me to
express my feeling that the attack he has made upon Mr. Mawley
is entirely unwarrantable.

Mr. Mawley’s analysis I have for many years looked forward to as
the crowning of the Rose season, and I fully endorse your remarks of
appreciation thereof. Painstaking care and thoroughness have dis¬
tinguished all of them, and these characteristics I would commend to
the notice of your correspondent. Long years before Mr. Grahame
became a member of the N.R.S. Mr. Mawley was doing valuable work
for it, to which work the Society owes much of its position to-day. If,
therefore, his work was now to be attacked it would have been more
becoming if the attack had proceeded from someone who could claim to
have done something for the Rose at least approaching in value to what
Mr. Mawley has done.

As you are aware, I have usually signed the notes I have sent to
your columns, but remembering the tremendous onslaught which a
gentleman had to endure, who ventured to differ from Mr. Grahame
last year, I take refuge on this occasion in the name of my county —
Bucks.

POMONA FARM NURSERIES, WITHINGTON,

HEREFORD.

The above is the largest fruit tree nursery in the fertile county of
Hereford, and very easy to reach, as it adjoins Withington Station on
the Great Western and London and North-Western railways, also about
four miles from the ancient city. Having arranged a convenient day
with Mr. J. Watkins, the well-known proprietor, to see his famous fruit
grounds, he met the writer at Hereford Station, with a sharp trotting
horse and conveyance, driving direct to his Whitecross Nursery, out of
the city. There was a magnificent collection of fruit trees of all kinds
and forms, clean, and in the best of health, very small trees being well
supplied with fruit buds. The planting season being an early and
favourable one, great activity was exercised in lifting trees and execut¬
ing orders. In one instance 500 standard Apple trees were being
packed at the time of my visit, and better rooted trees could not be
desired.

Like all nurserymen Mr. Watkins has trees to suit all classes of buyers,
and standards, half-standards, trained pyramid and bush trees are in
vast numbers. Dumelow’s Seedling is very much to the fore here, and
H this excellent Apple would answer everywhere the same as with Mr.
Watkins, nothing would pay better to plant. All the trees ranging from
small maidens to tall standards are covered with large fruit buds, and

entirely free from canker. Ecklinville Seedling is in great demand, and
a large quarter is occupied b^t. Annie Elizabeth, Cellini, and King of
the Pippins cover a large space. Beauty of Bath and Bramley’s Seedling
Mr. Watkins considers to have a great future as Apples suitable for both
market and private establishments, consequently many are grown to
meet any requirements. Potts’ {Seedling is another favourite, and the
same remark applies to Worcester Pearmain, Stirling Castle, Yorkshire
Beauty, and Warner’s King ; in fact, all the leading market varieties are
grown extensively in the Whitecross Nursery. Hereford Beefing is in
much favour by farmers, and many trees are sold to them. I think they
are wise to plant such a variety that is valuable for market, owing to
its high colour ; and if prices rule low it is equally valuable for cider
making. Many other varieties of cider Apples are grown in great
numbers, for which a good demand is found. Some of the choicer
Apples are worked in a lesser degree, such as Ribston Pippin and Mr.
Gladstone ; but though these are only produced by hundreds instead of
thousands, they are equally healthy and vigorous, and free from canker.
There are many other sorts of Apples, too numerous to name, that are
grown in very large numbers. Pears are also grown here, but to a less
extent than at the Pomona Nurseries, the principal kinds consisting of
Williams’ Bon Chretien, Marie Louise, Louise Bonne of Jersey, and
others, all being clean and admirably grown, and of all forms.

A large plot is filled with all the best and most famed Lancashire
prize Gooseberries, each plant having a clean stem of about 1 foot from
the soil to the branches. Winham’s Industry, Whitesmith, and Keep¬
sake are very largely grown. Keepsake is a favourite with Mr. Watkins,
as he finds it one of the best market varieties, producing heavy crops of
large berries almost from its infancy. Crown Bob is another good kind,
and represented by a large stock, also many others. Currants, especially
Black, are in great force, and finer well rooted plants could not be
desired. Black Naples, Ogden’s Black, Lee’s Prolific, and Black
Champion (Carter’s) are grown by thousands. Amongst White
Currants, White Champion is praised highly, as it produces the finest
berries and clusters in great profusion, and is here considered by far the
best in its class, while similar honours are awarded to Le Conde amona
the Red, being an improvement on the well-known Raby Castle
Currant,

Plums are only grown on a limited scale at the Whitecross Nursery,
so we pass on to the Pomona Nurseries. About a mile before reaching
there we come to some of Mr. Watkins’ fruit plantations, in which fruit
is grown for market purposes. Standard fruit trees are planted in long
lines with bush trees between in the lines, and between these lines are
Gooseberries, Raspberries, Strawberries, and Currants. When it is stated
that Mr. Watkins has about 100 acres of orcharding, independent of
his nursery grounds of 60 acres, it will be at once apparent that his
opinion is valuable as to the varieties of each kind of fruit most suitable
to plant for profit, and a conversation with him on these matters is not
only interesting but extremely educational.

On leaving these fruit plantations we arrive at the top of a hill over¬
looking the nurseries. Hop yards, residences, cider mills, packing sheds,
and offices. After a short drive through the nurseries we adjourn to
Mr. Watkins’ house, where we rest for a little time, and again sally
forth. I should mention here that Mr. Watkins has adopted an excellent
plan on his house worthy of imitation. Instead of planting the usual
ornamental climbers, cordon Pears have been planted on the favourable
aspects. The trees have grown splendidly, and produce magnificent fruit.
Not only are the trees highly attractive when in bloom but very useful
in supplying first-class fruit, much of which finds its way to the
exhibition table. Leaving the house we pass to a field filled with stocks
for working next spring, and about to be added to the nurseries. Thence
we proceed to view the cider fruit.

Imagine a large grass field covered with bright red and golden fruit,
varying from 2 feet to feet deep, weighing hundreds of tons, and
then some idea may be formed of the quantity of cider manufactured.
Bach variety is kept separate and carted away to the mill, and here a
few remarks on the mill itself may not be out of place. As the fruit
is brought into this department it is shot into a large room, in
which is a huge hopper for filling a crushing or pulping machine, the
revolutions of which are 2000 per minute, keeping a man busy with a
large shovel supplying this hungry monster with fruit. After passing
through this process it is conveyed by machinery to another part to
have the liquid extracted, which runs through a large 2-inch hose full
hore into great vessels. All this work is done by steam power, and on
the most approved principles, and as the work is completed the cider is
bottled or put in casks, according to quality or demand. One note¬
worthy point was the extreme cleanliness prevailing in every portion of
the manufactory. For this reason alone Mr. Watkins well deserves the
large orders he obtains for his cider and perry. The making of the
latter was over at the time of my visit, and except that Pears are used
instead of Apples the process is much the same.

Opposite the cider factory is the fruit room containing at least 300
varieties of Apples of large size, and mostly of exquisite colour. It
would take up too much space to name even the most striking in detail,
but the following are worthy of a place in every exhibitor’s collection —
Belle de Boskoop, Atkins’ Seedling, Flanders Pippin, Devon Red (very
high colour). Lady Waldron, Crimson Costard, Warner’s Seedling, similar
to Washington but heavier, Backley’s Seedling, Scarlet Tiffing, and
Roundway Magnum Bonum, very fine ; some of the fruit must weigh a
pound each. Many other comparatively unknown varieties deserved
noting, but time would not permit. Leaving the fruit we pass to the
trees in the nursery, which are in far greater numbers and variety than

November 16, 1893,

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEIL

441

at Whitecross. Something like 60 acres are filled with Apples, Pears,
Plums, Cherries, Apricots, Peaches, Nectarines, and Damsons, which are
planted in long rows containing 2000 trees per row. All the trees are in
admirable health and condition, and not a trace of American blight to
be seen. To give some idea of the number, I may state that in one
portion of the fruit plantation over 600 distinct varieties of Apples
are grown, besides a great number of British, Continental, and American
sorts on trial. Plenty of room is allowed the trees, which are in bush
form and lightly pruned, merely thinning out the shoots where too
thick or crossing. Many varieties of Apples not much grown are to be
seen in these nurseries, some of which deserve extended culture. One
of these not much known outside the county is Stoke Edith Pippin,
somewhat resembling King of the Pippins, but larger, with a higher
colour and longer keeping qualities, also excellent for dessert.

A collection of native Japanese and American Plums are on trial,
but it is doubtful if they will prove profitable in this country. What
appears to be an acquisition in the trial department is an American
Kaspberry named Cuthbert ; it is a free fruiting summer variety, and
has this season produced a fair autumn crop. At the time of my visit
(November 2nd) the fruit was in large clusters and of exquisite flavour.
Another Kaspberry that promises well is the Black Raspberry ; the
canes are black in colour, strong, short-jointed, and look as if they
would be self-supporting. Superlative and other kinds are grown
extensively ; also Currants, Gooseberries, and Nuts in great variety and
in admirable condition. Strawberries are represented by immense
stocks of all the known varieties, including Alpines. All the best kinds
are grown by thousands in small pots, as well as numbers in beds.
Contrary to my expectation, John Ruskin has been in great demand
this season. It seems to revel in the Withington soil — in fact, all the
varieties are exceptionally strong and healthy.

Not only fruit and fruit-producing plants are grown at these nurseries,
but adjoining are fields devoted to Potato culture, principally for seed
purposes, in which Mr. Watkins does a large trade. Several varieties of
fine quality have originated here, and no doubt many readers will have
seen the grand samples staged by Mr. Watkins at some of the large
agricultural and horticultural shows. Hops are also an important crop.
A large Hop yard faces the cider factory, and thousands are grown for
sale annually. The demand has been very heavy this season for Hop
roots at high prices, still a good supply is left.

Leaving this part, we make our way to the station, and having a few
minutes to spare we inspect some more fruit hurriedly in buildings
near the station. Here were magnificent Pears in great variety which
have done excellent service at shows. Tons of Blenheim Orange and
other Apples were stored, to be sold later on as prices advanced. At
the back of these store rooms are other packing sheds in which
men were busy packing and conveying trees to the station only a few
yards away. A line of rails runs right through a portion of the nursery
and up to the cider factory, enabling the proprietor to execute heavy orders
of each in the least possible time. Time expiring, I have to leave after
a very interesting visit, and greatly obliged to Mr. and Mrs. Watkins for
their kindness and hospitality, my only regret being that I did not see Mr.
Vaughan, the able foreman, who was winning premier honours for Mr.
Watkins at Portsmouth for collections of Apples and Pears. —
S. T. Weight.

FRITILLARIA BREVIOAULIS.

This Fritillaria is a dwarf-growing plant, rarely exceeding a height of
9 inches. The flowers, as will be seen by referring to the illustration
(fig. 64), are rather small and produced singly as well as in pairs. They
are of a tawny colour, and although not particularly attractive, the
species is well worth growing. Our engraving was prepared from a sketch
of a plant growing in the Royal Gardens, Kew, last spring. Like other
choice Fritillarias the species under notice requires a sunny and sheltered
position, a deep sandy loam suiting it admirably. It can also be grown
in pots for the embellishment of the greenhouse in spring.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

November 14th.

There was a good display of Orchids and Chrysanthemums at this
meeting, and many novelties were shown, but it was impossible to see
the true colours of the flowers, owing to the bad light in the Drill Hall.
Fruit was not so well represented as usual, but some fine Potatoes were
shown.

Fruit Committee. — Present : Philip Crowley. Eiq. (in the chair) ;
Messrs. J. Lee, T. F. Rivers, G. Taber, T. J. Saltmarsh, W. Warren,
.J. A. Leing, W. Balderson, F. Q. Lane, James Smith, H. J. Pearson,
J. Willard, and Dr. Hogg.

As before mentioned fruit was not extensively shown. Mr. W. J.
Godfrey, Rolle Street, Exmouth, sent a dozen clusters of Apples of
a second growth. The fruit of such varieties as Grenadier, Lord
Grosvenor, and Domino were about half grown, whilst others were
larger than Walnuts. A vote of thanks was accorded for this interesting
exhibit. Mr. J. Edmeads, Bevingford, Uckfield, sent a dish of
Edmeads’ Seedling Apple, a fine well-coloured variety, but no award
was made. Mr. W. Jenkins, The Willows, Abergavenny, had a dish of
Monmouthshire Beauty Apples, and Mr. W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall
Gardens, sent samples of Barnack Beauty in ripe condition. A vote

of thanks was accorded in each case. Mr. J. Crook, Forde Abbey,
Chard, had a dish of Coe’s Late Red Plum, and Mr. W. Roupell,
Harvey Lodge, Roupell Park, staged a basket of splendid Newton
Wonder Apples (vote of thanks), and Mr. J. Fitt, had Bananas in good
condition.

Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons sent a large collection of Potatoes, clean
well-grown tubers that deserved the silver Banksian medal recom¬
mended. They exhibited a tuber of The Bruce that weighed 2^ lbs,
Mr. Leach, Albury Park Gardens, Guildford, sent Leach’s All the Year
Round Parsley, and an extensive collection of Celery came from the
Society’s gardens at Cbiswick,

Floral Committee. — Present : W, Marshall, Esq. (in the chair) ;
Messrs. R. Owen, H. Herbst, C. T. Druery, G. Stevens, W. C. Leach,
F. Ross, J. Jennings, W. Bain, C, Jeffries, W. Furze, C. E, Pearson,

T. Baines, H. Cannell, J. D. Pawle, J. T. Bennett Poe, E. Mawley, G. Paul,
J. H. Fitt, Owen Thomas, C. E. Shea, Peter Barr, and Rev. H. H.
D'Ombrain,

Chrysanthemums were the principal exhibits brought before this
Commictee. Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea, sent a large group
tastefully arranged, comprising all the leading varieties (silver Flora
medal). Amongst others were some exceptionally fine blooms of Lord
Brooke, Viscountess Hambledon, Robert Owen, and Charles Blick. A
plant of Mdlle. Th^ibse Rey was also shown by Messrs. Veitch, and an
award of merit was adjudged. Mr. W. Wells, Earlswood Nurseries,
Surrey, had a splendid collection of cut blooms of all the latest novelties
in the Japanese, single and Anemone-flowered forms (bronze Banksian
medal). Mr. W. Salmon, West Norwood, sent some bouquets and
baskets of Chrysanthemums (bronze Banksian medal), and Mr. G.
Wythes, gardener to the Duke of Northumberland, Syon House,
Brentford, had a collection of blooms charmingly arranged with small
Palms and Ferns (silver Banksian medal). Mr. C. E. Shea, The Elms,
Foots Cray, Kent, had a collection of Japanese varieties arranged in a
manner that he offered as a suggestion for staging cut Chrysanthemums.
The stands wmre in sections of about 6 inches in width, three blooms
being staged in each section (bronze Banksian medal). An award of
merit was adjudged for a bloom of Mdlle. Th^iese Rey, shown by
Mr. Shea.

In a competitive class for a collection of cut Chrysanthemums there
were several exhibitors, Mr. J. McLeod, Dover House Gardens, Roe-
hampton, had a fine collection of Japanese incurved and the smaller
flowered types, but was disqualified for non-compliance with the
schedule. Mr. G. Wythes was then placed first, Mr. Thomas Osman,

442

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Koyember IS, 1893

Ottershaw Park, Chertsey, second, and Miss Debenham, St. Albans,
third. Mr. W. Slogrove, Gatton, Kergate, was first for eight new Chrys¬
anthemums showing varieties now in commerce. Mr. G. Wythes was
second also in this class with smaller flowers of similar varieties.

Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent, sent a very fine collec¬
tion of Chrysanthemums and Zonal Pelargoniums (silver Flora medal).
The former comprised all the novelties of the day in splendid condition.
The Pelargoniums were also excellent, and made a grand display. Mr.
E. Parker, The Gardens, Impney Hall, Droitwich, sent a collection of
cut Chrysanthemums, arranged with Ferns and small plants of Ficus
repens (silver Banksian medal). Mr. Robert Owen, Maidenhead, sent
six boxes of new Chrysanthemums, and awards of merit were adjudged
for the following varieties : — John Bunyan, Lord Rosebery, Niveus,
Golden Wedding, Rose Wynne, and Wilfred Marshall. These are
described below. Mr. Crawford, Reigate, showed Chrysanthemums, and
a bronze Banksian medal was recommended.

Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons sent a box of Begonias John Heal and Mrs.
John Heal, the last named a large flowered variety. The same firm
secured a first-class certificate for Dracmna Jamesi, which is described
elsewhere. Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart,, sent a basket of Primula
Forbesi, for which a first-class certificate was awarded.

Orchid Committee. — Present : H. J. Veitch, Esq. (in the chair);
Dr. Masters, Messrs. J. O’Brien, E. Hill, Thomas Statter, T. W. Bond,
C. J. Lucas, H. Williams, and H. Ballantine.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Clapton, sent a small group of Orchids
tastefully arranged with Crotons and other foliage plants (silver
Banksian medal). Messrs. F, Sander & Co., St. Albans, were re¬
presented by a group of Orchids, comprising Calanthes, Cattleyas, and
some charming Cypripediums (silver Flora medal). R. J. Measures,
Esq., Cambridge Lodge, Camberwell, sent a charming collection,
amongst which were the beautiful Cypripedium insigne Sanderse,
C. Exul, C. X Bellona, C. insigne Ernesti, some varieties of Cattleya
labiata, and the brightly flowered Sophronitis grandiflora (silver Flora
medal). Mr. T. Statter, Stand Hall, Manchester, sent various
Cypripediums, amongst which C. Southgatense superbiens (first class
certificate), and C. Ariadne were conspicuous. Mr. Joseph Fitt
Panshanger, Hertford, sent a variety of Cypripedium Leeanum, distinct
from and smaller than the type. F. S. Moseley, Esq., 448, West Strand,
had a seedling Cypripedium.

Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea, had
Lselio-Cattleya Statteriana (first-class certificate), Lselis- Cattleya pallas
superba, and several distinct'Cypripediums, including C. x Euryades,
and C. (Enone. Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son staged a very fine collection
of Cypripediums, Cattleyas, and Odontoglossums tastefully arranged
(silver Flora medal). Mr. E. H. Woodall, Nicholas House, Scarborough,
sent a plant of Cypripedium insigne var. albo-purpureum. Messrs. W. L.
Lewis & Co., Southgate, N., staged a collection of Cypripediums,
Cattleyas and Odontoglossums, which made a bright display (silver
Banksian medal). Several Orchids that have not been mentioned were
certificated, but these are described below.

Certificates and Awards of Merit.

Chrysanthemum Chas. Davis (J. Veitch & Sons and G. Stevens). —
The well-known bronzy yellow sport from Viviand Morel (award of
merit).

Chrysanthemum C. J. Salter (W. Wells). — A pretty Anemone-
flowered variety raised by Mr. Wells. The flowers are medium in size
and of a terra cotta shade (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Dule of Yorh (H. Cannell & Sons). — A massive
incurved Japanese variety, broad purplish crimson florets with a silvery
pink reverse (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Golden Wedding (R. Owen, G. Stevens, J. Veitch
and Sons, and H. Cannell). — A fine Japanese variety, rich golden yellow
(award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Mdlle, Therese Dey (C. E. Shea and J. Veitch and
Sons). — A charming creamy white Japanese variety which is figured on
page 449 of this issue.

Chrysanthemum Wilfred Marshall (R. Owen). — An English-raised
incurved Japanese variety of a bright yellow colour (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Rose Wynne (R. Owen). — An incurved Japanese
variety, bloom large, white heavily tinted pink (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Niveus Owen). — An American reflexed Japanese

variety, of good build, white tinted pink (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Robert Petfield (R. Owen). — A fine incurved variety,
blooms of great depth and substance (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Lord Rosebery (R. Owen). — An English-raised
incurved variety ; blooms large, deep, and in colour a shade lighter than
Lucy Kendall (award of merit).

' Chrysanthemum John Bunyan (R. Owen). — A charming Anemone-
flowered variety of a striking yellow colour (award of merit).

Croton Russdli (H. Low &; Co.). — A broad-leaved showy kind, the
foliage being green, richly spotted and veined with yellow and red
(first-class certificate).

Cypripedium Ashworthoc (E. Ashworth, Esq.). — This hybrid is the
result of a cross between C. Leeanum superbum and C. selligerum
majus. The dorsal sepal is very fine, chiefly white, with a green base
^°4^^^potted purple. The sepal and lip are bronze purple (award of

Cypripedium Leeanum var. James Ilamilton (F. Sander & Co.). — A
beautiful variety of C. Leeanum, the chief feature being the fine white
dorsal sepal (award of merit).

Cypripedium soutligateense superbum (T. Statter, Esq.). — This is

apparently the result of a cross between C. bellatulum and C,
Harrisianum. The sepal and petals are heavily spotted purplish
crimson, and likewise is the lip (first-class certificate).

Cypripedium Swinburnei Stand Hall var. (T. Statter, Esq.). — A
pretty form, with sepals and petals densely covered with browish spots,
the lip being shiny brown (award of merit).

Dracana Jamesi (J. Veitch & Sons). — A narrow-leaved Dracmna of
an ornamental character. The centre of each leaf is dark brownish red,
the margins being bright red (first-class certificate).

Latlio- Cattleya Statteriana (J. Veitch & Sons). — An exceedingly
pretty bigeneric hybrid, being the result of a cross between Cattleya
labiata and Laslia Perini. The sepals and petals are of a rosy mauve
shade, and the lobe of the lip is a rich purplish crimson (first-class
certificate).

Pleione maculata alba (G. W. Law, Esq.). — A chaste variety, with
small white flowers, a tinge of lemon yellow being noticeable in the
throat (award of merit).

Primula Forbesi (Sir Trevor Lawrence). — A small-flowering species
from China. The flowers are rosy lilac colour, and obviously very freely
produced (first class certificate).

Stanhopea Lowi (H. Low & Co.).— A very fine species with large
creamy white flowers, faintly spotted with crimson (award of merit).

The Lecture.

At the afternoon meeting, Mr. R. Parker, The Gardens, Impney Hall,
Droitwich, read an excellent paper on the culture of Chrysanthemums.
As a successful grower, Mr. Parker dealt with his subject in a practical
manner, detailing the most salient points connected with the cultivation
of these popular flowers. The essayist illustrated his remarks with
some well grown plants and very fine blooms. A vote of thanks to
Mr. Parker was unanimously accorded.

Events of the Week. — Apart from the Chrysanthemum Exhibi¬
tions, some of which are mentioned on another page, nothing of special
interest to horticulturists will take place during the ensuing week.
Several auction sales are announced, and particulars of these can be
found in the advertisement pages.

- At the monthly meeting of the United Horticultural

Benefit and Provident Society held on Monday last five new
members were elected. The Secretary announced that out of the 500
members not one was on the sick fund.

- The Weather in London. — During the past week the

w'eather in the metropolis has been of a changeable character. Sunday
was fine, and a sharp frost occurred at night. Monday was also dry and
cold, freezing during the night ; but Tuesday proved a typical November
day, being damp and foggy. During the evening it rained heavily, and
Wednesday opened dismally. At the time of going to press it is raining
slightly.

- Weather in the North. — We have had a week of seasonable

weather. In the beginning frosts of from 5° to 8° occurred. There
was heavy hoar frost on the morning of the 9th, and slighter on that
on the 13 th. There has been little sunshine, and cold north-easterly
winds have generally prevailed. — B. D., S. Perthshire.

- The York Gala. — As announced in our advertisement pages

the great Floral Fete at York next year will be held on June 13th, 14th,
and 15th. A sum of £650 will be offerei in prizes. Mr. Chas. W.
Simmons, 13, New Street, York, is the Secretary, and schedules will be
ready in January next.

- Messrs. Dobbie & Co., Rothesay, inform us that they have

this week received a Royal Warrant appointing them seed growers and
florists to the Queen. They also announce that Mr. Archibald M.
Burnie, a prominent member of the Institute of Bankers in Scotland,
becomes a partner in the firm, taking charge of the counting house.

- Carnations for winter flowering, a correspondent

observes, were in splendid condition at Ketton Hall last week, and
several plants of Urceolina aurea were in full bloom. Some good
Orchids, including Cypripedium insigne Maulei, and bushes of Salvia
Pitcheri were very attractive. On the roof of a warm house large
numbers of flowers of Allamanda Henderson! and Bougainvillea glabra
were hanging. A plant of Aristolochia and a Bignonia in flower were
also conspicuous.

November 16, 1833. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

443

- Gardening Appointment. — Mr. Harry May, late of Rose-

mount, Sunningdale, has been appiinted as head gardener to Mrs.
McIntosh, Havering Park, Romford.

- Pyrus japonica Fruiting. — “ G. H., Gosport," writes, “ 1

enclose a fruit of the well-known Pyrus japonica for your inspection. Is
it not a very unusual thing for it to fruit ? I have not heard that a fruit
has ever before been seen in this part. It is growing on a south wall.”
[Pyrus japonica has fruited abundantly this year in many gardens.]

- Potato Picking in South Lincolnshire. — At Holbeach

and Long Sutton (large Potato growing districts), there has been a great
demand for labour, in order to get up the tubers. The Potatoes are
turning out well, and in the marshes so great is the demand for hands
that the farmers are outbidding one another to obtain pickers. Boys and
girls are getting as much as 2s. and 2s. 3d. per day, and labourers with
large families are reaping quite a harvest, In Hertfordshire the other
day we noticed there were many fields of Potatoes undug,

- Peaches and Nectarines at Ketton Hall. — Mr.

A. Harding, Orton Hall, writes:— “It is not only Chrysanthemums
that are to be seen at Ketton Hall, for the most commanding feature
is undoubtedly the Peach and Nectarine trees under glass, and Mr,
Divers, the courteous and talented gardener there, has made himself
famous as an exhibitor of these fruits, as the columns of the Journal
has often testified. The Peach trees alone are worth a journey to see,
and although the fruit is over for this season, the growths for bearing
next year are splendid, and show good culture.”

- A New Calla. — Messrs. E. H. Krelage, Haarlem, Holland,

write : — “ I beg to inform you that the rose-coloured Calla, imported
by our firm and mentioned in your columns (page 420), has proved to
be identical with Richardia Rehmanni, which was first described by
Engler in his ‘ Botanische Jahibiicher,’ 1883, under the name of
‘ Fantedeschia Rehmanni.’ We exhibited a flowering plant at the last
Floral Committee meeting of the Royal Netherlands Horticultural and
Botanical Society, where it was awarded a first-class certificate,”

- Royal Botanic Society, — A meeting of this Society was

held on Saturday last, Mr. T. H. Burroughes in the chair. On the
proposition of the Duke of Teck, President, the Duke of York was
nominated for the fellowship of the Society. The following also were
elected, and the nominations of many others read for ballot at the next
meeting : — Mrs. Haslam, Mr. J. Hutchinson, jun., and Mr. W. E. Whad-
coat, The donations received since the last meeting included many
uncommon and seldom seen fruits, both home-grown and from the
continent, illustracing the special fruitfulness of the year just closing.

- Several Methods of Preserving Apples through the

Winter were discussed at a Conference in Somersetshire. The boiling
of fruit and filling sulphurised casks with them was recommended, also
burying Apples in pits and thatching them in, and laying them in clamps,
all of which methods were said to have proved successful. One farmer
has adopted the plan of drying his Apples by evaporation. It was not
mentioned at the aforesaid temperance meeting, but our contemporary
states that the pomace of the Apples — that is, the residue after they
have been ground and the juice pressed out — is almost as good for stock
as the Apples themselves, and it can be easily preserved by clamping it
like Potatoes and thatching it over.

- Vegetable and Root Show at Leicester. — Messrs

Harrison & Sons have again held their annual vegetable and root Show,
and, says a local contemporary, another success has been scored. The
Exhibition was opened at the Market Hall on Wednesday, November 8th.
Liberal prizes had been offered by the firm for the roots and vegetables
grown from seed supplied by them, and, judging from the excellent
quality of the exhibits, the judges must have had no easy task in
awarding the prizes. A better exhibition of Celery has very rarely been
seen. Some fine heads of Harrison’s Leicester Red Celery and the Early
Rose variety were staged. The competition was strong in the Carrots,
and of the Early Market and the Selected Intermediate Carrots it would
be impossible to speak too highly. There were also some good specimens
of the Autumn Giant Cauliflower, but the competition was not quite so
marked in this class. Savoys were very strongly represented, and some
exceedingly large ones were on view. The quality of the Brussels
Sprouts was very good, whilst the same remarks would apply to the
Onions and Beets. Perhaps the Cheltenham Greentops were the most
conspicuous in the Beet line. Messrs. Harrison usually excel in
Potatoes, and the exhibits this season did not prove an exception,
here were some very fine tubers on exhibit.

- Forests op Apple Trees. — According to “ Meehans’

Monthly,” the Apple has become wild in the Sandwich Islands, and
forests of trees of many acres aie found in various parts of the
country. They extend from the level of the sea far up into the
mountain sides. It is said that miles of these Apple forests can
occasionally be seen. One traveller gives the extent of one of them
as between five and ten miles in width and about twenty miles long.

- Growing Filberts and Hazel Nuts. — Inquiries are

frequent in regard to the probability of profitable culture of
the Hazel and Filbert Nuts. Trees growing by themselves seldom
produce large crops, on account of the different periods at which
the catkins mature and the bearing flower opens. In order to get them
successful, therefore, they have to be grown in large quantities together.
Of all trees Filberts are the most gregarious. When numbers are planted
in an orchard by themselves they bear remarkably well. The best
situation is one exposed to the north, as the southern exposures might
induce a still greater period between the openings of the two classes of
flowers.— (“ Meehans’ Monthly.”)

- British Fungus Flora. — Some three months ago we published

a notice of two volumes of Mr. George Massee’s “ British Fungus Flora.”
The third volume of the series has now come to hand, and within we
perceive an intimation that in order to complete the subject the issue of
a supplementary volume is contemplated. The present volume is even
more comprehensive than those which preceded it, and presents
the same excellent appearance in respect of binding and typography.
The Basiomycetes occupy more than half the book, and the remaining
two hundred pages comprises the Hyphomycetes and other funguses.
The exhaustive and analytical character of the work is well preserved,
and those who are interested in this recondite subject will find many of
the old obscurities and uncertainties peculiar to fungology cleared
away.

- Pentstemon antirrhinoides. — Mr. W. Watson of Kew, in

referring to this plant in a recent issue of the “ Garden and Forest,”
says : — “ This interesting shrubby species of Pentstemon was introduced
to Kew from California about twenty years ago, and flowered in the
open ground in September. It is not, however, hardy, and consequently
it had disappeared from cultivation here until it was shown in flower
at the Royal Horticultural Society meeting recently by Sir Trevor
Lawrence. It is a much-branched, glabrous, subcinerous shrub
with slender leafy shoots, suggesting those of Myrtle or Leptospermum,
and bearing numerous lemon-yellow flowers an inch across, short in
the tube, with the lower divisions of the limb incurved. It might
prove a good plant to cross with the popular herbaceous species of
the genus.”

- How Plants Sicken and Die was the subject of an exceed¬
ingly interesting and most instructive lecture delivered before the
members of the Paxton Society at their rooms at the Saw Hotel last
week by Mr. H. Crowther, F.R.M.S., Curator of the Philosophical Hall,
Leeds, and late of Truro, Cornwall. Mr. W. Tunnicliffe presided, and
Mr. G. Gill occupied the vice chair. The lecture was illustrated by
a large number of very beautiful photographs, and shown by
means of the lime-light. The lecturer dealt with his subject in a
very masterly manner, and his remarks were most attentively listened
to. He showed in the first place the great similarity in many respects
between human beings and plants and trees, and after clearly demon¬
strating the form of the various parts, and the work they carry on, he
explained how plants are attacked and destroyed by various insects and
also by means of foul gases.

- Flora of New Zealand.— Mr. George Thomson of Dunedin

calls attention to some suggestive facts about the flora of New Zealand.
As everyone knows. New Zealand when discovered did not possess any
mammals, with the doubtful exception of a species of rat. Accordingly,
we find that those plants, which have defensive structures such as
spines, prickles, and those whose seeds or fruits are fitted for adhering
to the coats of passing animals, and thus obtaining dissemination,
belong in almost every instance to species having a wide range outside
of the islands. The inference, therefore, is that the characters referred
to have been developed outside the New Zealand region, and that such
species have been introduced into that country at a comparatively
recent period. The general absence of conspicuous flowers is attributed
to the corresponding absence of insects necessary for their fertilisation.
Previous to the arrival of European bees the Clover did not set seeds,
and if the native birds mentioned are destroyed a similar fats may befall
the plants to which they are co-related.

444

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Korember 16, 1893.

_ The Apple Crop in the cider districts of the west is exceed¬
ingly abundant this year. The orchards of Herefordshire, says a daily
contemporary, have been heavily laden with fruit, and in Somersetshire
cider Apples are so plentiful that the farmers in many cases are giving
them to stock instead of grinding them for cider. The Mid-Somerset
Temperance Village Mission, objecting to cider, held a conference lately,
in which speeches were delivered and letters read showing the value of
Apples for stock, and discouraging the manufacture of cider. A gentle¬
man writes : “ Our worst Apples are given to the cows, who are more
eager for them than for meal or cake.” A lady made the following
statement : “ We give our Apples to the cows every day, about 12 lbs. to
each cow, and find it increases the butter and improves the condition of
the cows. The very small Apples we shall boil for the pigs.” She
declared that Apples suit young pigs better than any roots that can be
mentioned. One informant states that Apples at 28s. a ton — the present
price — were much cheaper as food for milch cows and other kinds of
stock than Mangels at 12s. a ton.

- Girdlino Branches to Promote Fruitfulness. — It has

long been known that if a ring of bark be taken from a branch it
will cause that branch to prematurely bear fruit. But that branch
usually dies soon. The ring may not be taken completely around,
that is to say, a connection between the bark above the ringed
portion and below the ringed portion remains. In this case, the part
above the girdled portion does not die, but is brought into fruitfulness,
which continues for several years. This, says “ Meehan’s Monthly,”
has only been employed as a matter of curiosity, as it is usually con¬
sidered that the quality of the fruit is impaired by this procedure.
Certainly in Grapes, the fru’t produced after girdling is not nearly as
sweet or in any way as much appreciated, with the single exception
of size, as in cases where the girdling process has not been attempted ;
but in the Orange culture in Florida, it is stated that this girdling is
becoming a part of general practice, and perhaps this may account for
the enormously large increase of sour instead of sweet Oranges, which
is being poured into markets from that State.

- Improvement of the Carnation. — For many years when

Carnations were grown simply for their beauty as cut flowers, little
attention was given to any other point except to their fragrance, tints
and colour, or size of bloom. When they were cut for florists’ purposes,
artificial stems had to be given to each flower. This made it very
troublesome to florists, and besides prevented the general use of the
Carnation in boutoni^res, because for want of stems there was no
opportunity to put articles retaining moisture around the stalks by
which withering could be prevented ; they were soon, therefore, useless.
American florists, however, have turned their attention to developing
Carnations which produce flowers singly on long stems, and yet will
stool up so as to give bushy, stocky plants, producing these long-stalked
flowers in the greatest abundance. So successful has the improvement
of the Carnation been in this way, that no one ever thinks now of
buying Carnations except with stalks often 5 or 6 inches in length. It
is interesting to note that this particular kind of improvement does not
eeem to have been appreciated by improvers in the Old World, as the
popular Carnation for florists’ work is still one which was raised in
France nearly twenty years ago, known as Souvenir de la Malmaison.
This produces one enormous flower, oftentimes IJ inch in diameter at
the top of the stalk, with numerous short-stalked buds along the main
stem. No florist here could make his salt out of the cultivation of such
a Carnation. Little instances, says “ Meehans’ Monthly,” like these
show the immense advance made by American florists in certain lines of
improvement over the progress which the same thing has made in the
Old World.

PRIZES AT THE GARDENING AND FORESTRY

EXHIBITION.

I WAS pleased to see this matter noticed on page 419 of the Journal
of Horticulture. I fear that ” Exhibitor ” will require a considerable
amount of patience before he can get those in authority at Earl’s Court
to do what is just and what should have been done long ago. They not
only refuse to pay, but add insult to injury by refusing to answer
letters respecting payment of piizes ; and when, after much pressure,
a reply is obtained it is evasive, prolonging the exhibitor’s agony, and
adding to expenses. I was heartily glad to see “ Exhibitor’s” letter, and
1 trust that its publication and these notes will assist those who have
given much time at considerable cost in endeavouring to make the
exhibitions attractive and won the prizes that were offered.

I would suggest that the exhibitors meet together as soon as possible
and subscribe to take a test case into Court, and compel payment of
e prize money. This will be an easy matter for a number, whereas
one person could ill afford it. I will gladly contribute my share towards

the object in view, and in future I would beg those interested in horti¬
culture to give Earl’s Court exhibitions a wide berth. Though we were
misled by the respected names of Messrs. Milner and Turner as manag¬
ing this section, we shall in future know that the syndicate are
unworthy of support. Last year they failed to give the charities con¬
nected with horticulture the donation promised with such a loud flourish
of trumpets, and undoubtedly that promise led gardeners and others to
exhibit the more cheerfully, in the assurance that institutions estab¬
lished for the support of the aged and orphans would be in some measure
assisted.

If any exhibitors have been paid the prize money to which they are
justly entitled, it would be well if they would state the fact. I know
several gardeners who have received no prize money after spending, to
them, considerable amounts in the necessary expenses connected with
exhibiting.— Another Exhibitor.

Chrysanthemum Shows.

The following Chrysanthemum shows, which have been advertised
in our columns, remain to be held during the current month : —

Nov. 16th, 17th, and 18tb. — Edinburgh, York.

„ 17th and 18th. — Bolton, Sheffield.

„ 24th and 25th. — Bccles and Patricroft.

Reports op Chrysanthemum Shows.

We are very much obliged to our friends who favour with reports
of Chrysanthemum shows in the provinces, but those which come to
hand so late that they cannot be published till a fortnight after date
have perforce to be put aside for more recent matter.

Exhibitors’ Cards.

Will you kindly allow me space in your valuable paper to make a
suggestion now the Chrysanthemum exhibitions are prevalent ? I think
it would be better both for judges and exhibitors alike if the cards with
names and addresses on were not placed till after the judging, but each
exhibitor could have a private mark to avoid any mistake. It would, I
think, save the judges from being accused of partiality in any points,
and would also satisfy exhibitors as to the justice of the awards. —
Observer.

National Chrysanthemum Society,

A meeting of the General Committee of the National Chrys¬
anthemum Society will be held on Monday evening, November 20th, at
Anderton’s Hotel, Fleet Street, E.C., and at the termination of the
regular business Mr. Charles E. Shea, The Elms, Foots Cray, Kent, will
read a paper on “Judging Chrysanthemums.” The annual dinner will
take place at the same place on Thursday, November 30th, when the
President, Sir Edwin Saunders, will occupy the chair.

The N.C.S. and Its Certificates.

I AM glad to see the Floral Committee are exercising a tight hand
in respect to the awarding of certificates. The standard of merit is now'
a high one, and unless a variety is really good and distinct it is passed
over. This is how it should be, and the certificates will be much more
valuable. I cannot help thinking the Floral Committee should adjudi¬
cate on the blooms in a place where something like fair daylight can be
obtained. I believe one or two really good varieties were passed over
because the light was insufficient to distinguish the colours.

Whilst writing of certificates, I think it would be a good plan to
follow out the system adopted by the R.H.S. — viz., that the names of the
members of the Floral Committee present be published, and also that
the list of varieti s certificated should be published in the schedule or
report, with the date of the award and the number of votes each variety
obtained. — A Mummer.

A Fracas at the Aquarium Show.

At the recent Exhibition of the National Chrysanthemum Society I,
with some scores of other persons, witnessed a most unseemly and
unpleasant scene. It appears two Fellows of the N.C.S. — aye,
and members of its Floral Committee — were in competition in a
certain class. A wins first, B second. The award upset B con¬
siderably. He shouted and made a great disturbance — not for a short
time, but for hours, ultimately tearing his prize card in pieces. It was
certainly a very bad example for any exhibitor to make, especially one
in the position of B. If every man who thought he was going to
get the prize and did not get it acted in such a manner, what melees
our exhibitions would be I

I never heard anyone complain of the awards but this particular
member, and for his sake I think it would be well for the Society to
adopt the rule in existence among provincial Societies — viz., “ Any
person finding fault with the decision of the Judges in any other way
than by a written protest, or otherwise creating a disturbance in the
place of exhibition, shall forfeit the amount of his prizes for the day.”
—A, B. C.

NoT«inber IS, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

415

Chrysanthemum Mdlle, Therese Rey.

The above mentioned Chrysanthemum is unquestionably one of the
finest novelties of the year. It is a magnificent Japanese variety of
continental origin, being raised by Mr. Ernest Cal vat. The flower is
large, with long, drooping, broad creamy white florets. Already two
certificates have been awarded for this splendid variety, one to Mr. H.
Shoesmith by the National Chrysanthemum Society on October 11th,
and another to Mr. C. E. Shea at the Crystal Palace Show on
November 3rd and 4th. The illustration (fig. 65), which indicates the
character of the flower, has been prepared from a bloom grown and
exhibited by Mr. Shoesmith at the Crystal Palace on the occasion
mentioned.

Judges and Judging.

Being an exhibitor in the Japanese class at the recent Chrysanthe¬
mum Show at the Royal Aquarium I had the opportunity of seeing the
judges deciding on the merits of the blooms, and venture to express my
opinion that suflficient time was not given to the work to enable
absolutely correct awards to be made. I think every bloom should be
taken independently and allowed the number of points to which it may be
entitled. Neither do I think that a judge should be an exhibitor at the
same show, nor do I think it quite right for a man in business to judge
his customer’s exhibits. — AN Exhibitor.

A Large Viviand Morel.

In answer to“F. J., ” (page 422), regarding a large Viviand

Morel, I may mention that at Leeds Chrysanthemum Show last year a
bloom of the above variety was exhibited by Mr. Hayes of Woodville,
Keighley, which measured 20 inches over, which was deservedly awarded
a certificate for cultural skill, — T. H, B.

White Viviand Morel,

VOUR note on page 422 referring to the white Viviand Morel, shown
by Mr. Shoesmith at Crystal Palace, will I am afraid be misleading.
The class in which it was shown required twenty-four Japanese and
twenty-four incurved, in not less than eighteen varieties of each and not
more than two of one variety. As Mr. Shoesmith had only one pink
Viviand Morel in his stand he evidently did not intend it to be
recognised as distinct, and I feel sure that until a true white sport has
been certificated by the N.C.S. it will not be wise to exhibit it as a
distinct variety on the same stand with a pink one. — W'. H. Lees,
Trent Park Gardens, Neio Barnet,

[Whether Mr. Shoesmith intended the pure white sport from Viviand
Morel to be recognised as distinct or not, it was all the same absolutely
distinct from the type — quite as distinct as Mrs. Heale from Princess of
Wales, and blooms of both these varieties have often been cut from the
same plant. Since the publication of our note the Secretary of the
National Chrysanthemum Society has been consulted on the point in its
bearing on the Hull Show, and his view is this. “ If a bloom of Mrs.
W. R. Wells is pure white it can be staged with the deep pink Viviand
Morel without risk of disqualification, but it must be free from the pink
tinge.” The other Judges appointed to officiate at Hull, Messrs. G.
Gordon and J. Wright, concur, as do both Mr. J. Douglas and Mr. J.
Laing, both of whom have been specially consulted, but not one of
these gentlemen would vote a certificate for the white sport because
of its instability. Mr. James Hudson, who judges at Hull in the
unavoidable absence of Mr. Wright, is in complete accord with the
opinions expressed. Intending exhibitors at shows generally must decide
for themselves whether it will be wise in each particular case to stage the
white sport and its pink prototype in the same stand, and we shall be
quite content for them to be on the safe side, as suggested by the accom¬
plished grower and successful exhibitor Mr. W. H. Lees.]

Experiments in Chrysanthemum Culture,

At the meeting of the National Amateur Gardeners’ Association held
in the Memorial Hall, Farringdon Street, E.C., last week, Mr. D. B.
Crane of Highgate read an excellent paper on the above subject. There
were considerably more than 100 members present, and the crowded
audience listened most attentively to the discourse. As an authority on
Chrysanthemums and a winner of many prizes in open competition, Mr.
Crane, although an amateur, dealt with the matter in a thoroughly
practical manner. During the past season he had, it was remarked,
made many experiments, but owing to the abnormal season the majority
of them had proved valueless. The essayist strongly urged his hearers
to grow the best varieties only, and where space was limited it would,
he said, be better to cultivate half the number of plants that could
otherwise be had. Many beginners made the mistake in endeavouring
to grow too many plants. In such cases the Chrysanthemums were
crowded, and the results were not of a satisfactory nature.

Cultural details were described at length, and amongst other hints
Mr. Crane remarked that whilst some growers advised the cuttings,
after insertion, to be placed in a cold frame, he had found it advan¬
tageous to place the pots containing them in a small frame in a green¬
house. The pots were, in his case, plunged in cocoa-nut fibre refuse,
which to a great extent prevented damping. Oyster shells he could
recommend as drainage, and whilst some half-inch bones used by him
this year had answered admirably for the purpose, others, through not
having been properly prepared, became putrefied and killed several

plants of choice varieties. It is impossible in this brief reference to
mention all the useful hints put forth by Mr. Crane in his paper, but
it may be said that, after remarking on soils, manures, and repotting,
he detailed the methods of securing the buds, dressing the blooms,
staging them for exhibition, and various other essential points in a
masterly manner.

Chrysanthemum Charles Davis.

I SHALL be glad to learn which tint of colour is considered the correct
one for this variety. It was introduced as a rosy bronze, but when it
was certificated, two blooms, perfect in shape, fresh, and of a rich
bronze, were passed over for two of the same size but pale yellow with
a darker edge. At the late meeting of the National Chrysanthemum
Society the various exhibitors vied with each other as to who had the
darkest blooms. In its parent Viviand Morel, a blush or pale bloom
would not count as much as one of a deeper tint, and the same system
prevails in judging Etoile de Lyon and many others. If such be the
case, will anyone say which is correct for Chas. Davis ? If richness
of colour is required, why did the certificate go to blooms of a most
undecided yellow? — Querist,

Novelties at the Aquarium Show.

Without taking into account such recent introductions of high merit
as Colonel W. B. Smith, W. Tricker, William Seward, Charles Davis,
G. W. Childs, Beauty of Exmouth, Gloire du Rocher, Lord Brooke,
Florence Da via, and others of the past season or two, all of which were
very well represented at the Aquarium Show last week, there was a large
number of novelties presented for public inspection at the Floral Com¬
mittee, and also in one or two of the trade stands. As some of these are
likely to occupy a prominent position in a short time to come it may be
useful to record the names, and give a brief description of some of the
best.

In addition to those which received first-class certificates, and
described below, a few others merit notice — namely, Mrs. Cox, a crimson
sport from M. Bernard, closely resembling its parent in form, seemed to
be a promising variety for those who care for that type of Japanese
flower. Ernest Caille, a seedling Anemone, raised by Simon Delaux,
colour rosy straw with yellow disc, will be sure to become a favourite
in that section. Sautel 1893 is a bold Japanese incurved hairy variety,
a valuable addition to the ostrich plume class, the colour is rosy purple
with silver pink reverse. Lady Saunders is a Japanese variety with long
drooping florets, and of a peculiarly pleasing shade of pale yellow.
W. Mease is a large incurved Japanese, of a type somewhat resembling
Mrs. C. Harman Payne.

Bride of Maidenhead unfortunately too closely approaches Avalanche,
or it would unquestionably become a leading exhibition flower, the
colour seemed to be a shade or two whiter than the variety it resembles.
Hibernia, a large Anemone of an ochre yellow shade with a rosy buff
disk, and Caledonia a large Japanese Anemone with long white
incurving guard florets, and a rosy disk tipped yellow, will both be
welcome additions to the Anemone section in which so few additions of
merit seem to be made. Pearl of Maidenhead is an enormous tubulated
curly petalled Japanese, rather ragged, colour white, and as shown by
Mr. Owen, seemed almost to require a board to itself. W. H. Fowler is
a perfectly formed Japanese, a most effective flower with long petals
of a deep rich golden yellow. A heavy built massive flower is Thomas
Hewitt, the colour is white but the outer florets are shaded blush.
E. L. Jamieson is a fine colour, the petals are rather short, but they are
of a bright crimson hue, having a bronzy gold reverse. Gettysburgh is
another of the G. W. Child’s stamp, but rather darker in colour. A
thorough Japanese is James Myers with thin fluted delicate petals of
deep rosy salmon. There is no doubt that some of the above will be
favourably received next season although passed over now.

Certificated Chrysanthemums.

The following new Chrysanthemums were awarded first-class certi¬
ficates by the Floral Committee of the National Chrysanthemum Society
at their meeting on November 8th.

Golden Wedding (Mr. Godfrey). — A fine golden yellow Japanese
with rather thin incurved florets.

Elsie Neville (Mr. W. Seward). — A single flowered Japanese with
long crimson florets of a pleasing and effective shade.

Mrs. C. J. Salter (Mr. W. Wells). — A golden buff-coloured self
Anemone of medium size.

G. W Childs (yir, H. J. Jones). — A bright chestnut crimson Japanese
with golden reverse, rather broad pointed petals.

Colonel Chase (Mr. E. Beckett). — Long fluted drooping florets ; a large
Japanese show bloom ; colour pale blush with centre shaded yellow.

Rose Wynne (Mr. R. Owen). — This is a heavily built Japanese
incurved with long florets of a delicate pale blush colour.

W. W. Astor (Mr. K. Owen). — A large Japanese Anemone with ray
florets light salmon blush, and a high disk of golden rose.

John Bunyan (Mr. R. Owen). — Another excellent Japanese Anemone
of light lemon yellow, good disk and thin pointed ray florets.

Several other good varieties were staged which the Committee desired
to see again. Mr. Calvat sent over some new seedlings which were
hardly up to his usual standard. Messrs. Cannell, Mr. Jones, Mr. Owen,
Mr. Godfrey, and Mr. W. Seward were the principal exhibitors on this
occasion. Among noteworthy flowers mention should be made of Miss
Sturgis, a large white Japanese ; Pearl Beauty, a fine white incurved
Japanese ; and Florence Carr, a pretty orange bronze Pompon (com¬
mended). — C. H. P.

446

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 16, 1893.

Cheysanthemums at Woodville, Keighley.

One of the best grown collections of Chrysanthemums in this neigh¬
bourhood is to be found at Woodville, the residence of C. A. Haggas,
Esq., where his gardener, Mr. Hayes (raiser of the now well known in¬
curved variety. Miss M. A. Haggas) grows about 200 plants of the leading
varieties for the production of large blooms. Amongst Japanese the
following are especially fine : — W. Tricker, Sunflower, Bouquet des
Dames, Louis Boehmer, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Lord Brooke, R, C. Kingston,
Colonel W. B. Smith, Viviand Morel, and Edwin Lonsdale. Mr. Hayes
speaks highly of an improved W. H. Lincoln as a promising variety, and
quite distinct from the original type.

A fair proportion of incurved are also grown, his best being Alfred
Lynne, Golden Empress, Mons. E. Bahuant, Miss M. A. Haggas, Queen of
England, and Lord Wolseley. In another house a number of bush
plants are grown for cut blooms. Mr. Hayes is also a successful culti¬
vator of the Primula. His papers and lectures given at the different
gardening associations in the district are much appreciated. — T. H. B,

Chrysanthemums at Ketton Hall.

By the kind permission of Mr. and Mrs. Hop wood the gardens
and greenhouses of Ketton Hall were thrown open to the public on
November the 2nd and 9th, and will be opened again on November
16th. The gate is opened at two o’clock and closed at five. Sixpence
is charged for admission, and the proceeds are to be devoted to the
Royal Gardeners’ Orphanage Fund . The chief attraction at the present
time are the Chrysanthemums, of which many hundreds are grown and
tastefully arranged in the Peach houses.

With a friend I paid a visit to Ketton Hall on November 9th,
arriving soon after the gates were open. We soon found the Chrys¬
anthemums, and a fine display they made, a large number of the blooms
being of good quality and size. Most noticeable amongst them were
Col. W, B. Smith, Florence Davies, Mdlle. Lacroix, Avalanche, Gloire de
Rocher, Etoile de Lyon, Thunberg, Mr. A. H. Neve,W. H. Lincoln, Lord
Wolseley, Lilian B. Bird, Louis Boehmer, Viviand Morel, W. W. Coles,
Mrs. E. Clarke, Mrs. Robinson King, Comte de Germiny, and older
kinds.

I also noticed some useful plants in 6-inch pots, several cuttings
having been put in each pot the end of August, rooted, and allowed to
remain there. These are now bushy, and about 1 foot in height, carrying
plenty of flowers. About 600 more plants in 9-inch pots of such varieties
as Fair Maid of Guernsey, Madame C. Audiguier, and Peter the Great
looked very promising for a fine display throughout December and
onwards. There are many other good features at Ketton Hall, but only
Chrysanthemums can be mentioned here. — A. Harding, Orton Hall.

At Woodhatch Lodge.

This, the residence of T. B. Haywood, Esq., has become known as
a T)lace where horticulture is thoroughly carried out. Everything is
done well and cleanliness prevails. Not by any means the most
insignificant feature of the gardens are the Chrysanthemums, in which,
as, in fact, in all horticultural matters, Mr. Haywood takes such an
interest, and supported as he is by the gardener, Mr. C. J. Salter, the
display is a magnificent one. Though at the time of my visit the blooms
were on the wane, probably the very best of them had gone, but those
remaining were ample proof of the skill with which they had been
grown. The J^anese section, taken as a whole, was perhaps the
richest in fine flowers, both as regards form and colour, though the
incurved varieties were handsomely represented. The Anemone flowered
kinds, too, were in fine form, many superb flowers being still on the
plants. The collection is one of the most complete that could be
desired, all the novelties of last season being grown, 'as well as others not
yet in commerce. Though the new kinds are procured the older ones
are by no means discarded, every one of real merit being grown.

From amongst the best of those still in flower, I have selected a few
of those which were possessed of exceptional merit either in form,
substance, or colouration. Than Lord Brooke it would be difficult to find
a better with which to open any list, for the fiowers seen were mag¬
nificent. The colour was of the greatest richness, and the flowers
massive and shapely. Wm. Seward was grand, being particularly fine in
colour. The same may be said of the brightly hued W. H. Lincoln, than
which there is yet no yellow superior in its own particular style of
flower. One of the most chaste and beautiful was Miss Anna Hartshorn,
which has been seen in such good character this season. Mdlle. Marie
Hoste is represented by some of the grandest flowers one could wish to
see, as also was the popular Col. W. B. Smith. Of the pinks Vice-President
Audiguier, Mrs. Harman Payne, and Wm. Tricker form a grand trio.
The flowers of each of these are perfect as regards colouring, and
Mrs. Harman Payne carried blooms which were of an enormous size and
substance. Many blooms of the grand Edwin Molyneux were to be
seen amongst the others, as also were several Chas. Davis of a high
order of merit as regards colour and form ^of flower. Elmer D. Smith
is a velvety, maroon coloured, ragged bloom which promises to be an
acquisition, as also does the exquisite Viscountess Hambledon. Excelsior
was one of the most distinct, and Robert Flowerday, purplish maroon
with a silvery reverse, one of the most pleasing. Beauty of Exmouth was
of grand shape but lacking size and substance ; the green centred
Florence Davis on the other hand left nothing to be desired. Ruche
Toulouaise amongst the Anemones was magnificent, as also were Mrs.
A. Lowe, Lady Margeret, and Delaware. Many others might be men¬
tioned, but these must now suffice. Both Mr. Haywood and his gardener
are to be congratulated on the success they have achieved in bringing

plants and flowers to such a high state of perfection, and this through a
season that has been most trying for Chrysanthemum growers in more
ways than one. — H.

At Syon House.

Chrysanthemums, amongst innumerable other things, are splendidly
grown by Mr. G. Wythes at these gardens. Upwards of 1500 plants are
included in the collection, which comprises many of the new varieties of
the last season. The object has not been entirely to obtain large flowers,
many of the plants being kept exclusively for affording an abundance
of cut flowers. The plants are dwarf in habit and clothed with healthy
foliage.

Amongst the varieties now in flower, Excelsior must be accorded a
foremost place, its distinct blooms being very striking. Lady Selborne
is admirably represented as also is Jeanne d’Arc, W. W. Coles is in
magnificent form, and the same may safely be said of Mr. C. Orchard.
The flowers of Viviand Morel are of exceptional substance and grandly
coloured. The bright yellow flowers of Sunflower are amongst the most
showy, and Puritan is one of the very finest in every way. The blooms
of Stanstead Surprise are superb, the same remark applying to Baron
Hirsch. Alberic Lunden is a very beautiful variety, which may be seen
in almost all collections. Well named is Curiosity, pale yellow in colour.
Lord Alcester is fine, and Baronne de Prailly is one which should be
more grown. Monsieur William Holmes is carrying superb flowers, and
makes one of the brightest ornaments of the display. Mr. A. H. Neve,
Sarah Owen, William Tricker, Lady Margaret, Lord Brooke, Miss M.
Wheeler, Roseum superbum and Grandiflorum were noticeable amongst
others, of which many excellent ones must be missed. The plants are a
credit to Mr. Wythes, as everyone who sees them will readily admit. —
Nomad.

The Grange, Hackbridge.

The display of Chrysanthemums at these gardens has come to be
an annual event, and through the goodness of Mr. and Mrs. Smee the
grounds are thrown open to the public, who come in great numbers to
see the flowers. When at Hackbridge I asked Mr. Cummins, the genial
gardener, if he could say how many people had visited the gardens. He
replied, “ 1 cannot tell, but all the ahernoon on Sunday last the usually
quiet road from Hackbridge to Wallington was lined with people. The
carriage drive and garden walks were crow'ded, and the large orchard
house, where the Chrysanthemums are arranged, was packed all the
time.” The Cattleya house, containing some fine forms of the beautiful
autumn-flowering C. labiata, and the Fern house were admired by many.
That Mr. Smee’s kindness in providing a free annual Show is appreciated
by the inhabitants of Wallington and the neighbourhood is proved by
the thousands of people who have passed through the lodge gates.

Among the most prominent varieties of Chrysanthemums Mr.
A. H. Neve is in grand style, and the deliciously scented Progne is
one of the most popular and attractive. The handsome examples of
Viviand Morel call for continuous bursts of admiration. Mons. E.
Bahuant is splendid, as also is Sunflower, the colour of which is un¬
usually bright. The showy and floriferous Roi des Pr6coc6s is deservedly
a favourite, and the chastely pure flowers of Lady Selborne leave
nothing to be desired. Amongst the darks Edouard Audiguier is
perhaps the best, though it has a worthy companion in R. C. Kingston.
The hairy-petalled W. A. Manda and Louis Boehmer are both particu¬
larly prominent, and Gloriosum may be regarded as a variety of very
much merit.

At Earlswood.

During the past few years Mr. Wells of the Earlswood Nurseries
has come very prominently before the public as a grower and exhibitor
of Chrysanthemums, and late though it was I thought when the oppor¬
tunity arose that I could not do better than to spend an hour amongst
his plants. I was amply compensated, for the collection is certainly a
good one. Upwards of 3500 plants are grown, and they now show the
mark of unremitting and skilful attention. All these plants are not
grown for large blooms exclusively, many being required to furnish cut
flowers in great numbers. Perhaps a thousand plants are grown for
providing exhibition fiowers, the remainder being for the purpose above
mentioned. Innumerable single and seedling varieties are grown, and
amongst the latter were some of great promise. As may very readily be
imagined, with such an extensive exhibitor as Mr, Wells, most of the
finest flowers had long been gathered, but amongst those remaining were
many of such sterling merit that we have deemed them worthy of
special mention.

Mrs. E. D. Adams, with slightly tinged florets, was one of the most
charming, and the old Peter the Great was in splendid form. Beauty
of Hull is too much after the style of Mr, Shoesmith to become
universally popular, though it carries some good and shapely blooms,
Mrs. Governor Fife is a most pleasing variety, the outer petals of which
are pure white, with a centre of the most delicate cream. Ada Spauld¬
ing and Sunflower were both seen in fine condition, as also was the
Baronne de Prailly. The white blooms of Mons. J. M. Pigny were very
beautiful, as also were those of Florence Davis. A charming creamy
white variety was found in Cognac, and Lord Alcester was of exceptional
form. Mrs. G. W. Clarke was grand, as also was Vice-President
Audiguier. The colour of Viviand Morel was magnificent, and the
blooms left little to be desired as regards shape. Stanstead White
may be numbered amongst the purest of whites, and Crimson King one
of the best of its class. J. Stanborough Dibben, Lord Alcester, Empress,
and numerous others might be mentioned, but these may be taken as a
criterion of a collection which represented by some of the best flowers
one could wish. to see. — R. H. E.

Kovember 16, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

447

CHRYSANTHEMUM SHOWS.

HULL AND EAST RIDING. — November 15th and 16th,

The tenth annual Exhibition of the Hull and East Riding Chrys¬
anthemum Society opened yesterday (Wednesday) in the Artillery
Barracks, Park Street, Hull. The Hull Shows are famed for their
magnitude and excellence. As was generally anticipated the liberal
prizes, including a challenge vase worth 20 guineas, several silver
cups, and pieces of plate of considerable value, brought forth many of
the principal growers, Our reporter telegraphs the names of the prize¬
winners in the leading open classes, and says the high reputation the
Society has long enjoyed is fully maintained. In most of the classes
the entries were numerous, and the competition was keen. The tables
of bouquets and floral decorations were not quite so numerous as usual,
but good ; while the groups of plants were magniflcent. Incurved
blooms were some of the best seen this season, and the Japanese superb,
being large and well coloured.

In the class for twenty-four incurved blooms, in not less than
eighteen varieties, and no more than two blooms of one variety, Mr. W.
Lees, The Gardens, Trent Park, New Barnet, secured the coveted first
prize of £10 and a silver cup valued 5 guineas. His blooms were
grand, being splendidly finished. Mr. H. Shoesmith, gardener to M.
Hodgson, Esq,, Shirley, Croydon, was a close second, winning the £5
prize ; and Mr. Peter Blair, Trentham, third.

For twenty-four Japanese blooms, distinct varieties, Mr. Shoesmith
secured the premier award of £10 and a silver cup valued 5 guineas with
a stand of excellent blooms. Mr. Heany, the Gardens, Mossley House,
Liverpool, was second ; and Mr. Musk, Haveringland Hall, Norwich,
gained a third position. In the class for twenty-four blooms, Japanese,
^distinct, arranged for effect, and set up in any manner the exhibitor
desires, with or without Chrysanthemums or other foliage, on a table
space not exceeding 6 feet in length by 2 feet 6 inches in width, the
competition was good. The object of this class is to introduce a more
tasteful system of staging highly developed flowers. Mr. Musk here
repeated his success with a charming arrangement, securing the 5-guinea
prize, given by Harold J. Reckitt, Esq., J.P., M.P., Winestead Hall. Mr.
Wilson, Swanland Manor, was second ; and Mr. Jarvis, Ciffe House
Gardens, Hessle, third.

The class for a table of bouquets, wreaths, sprays, buttonholes, or
other floral arrangements, illustrating the decorative value of Chrys¬
anthemums, with any kind of foliage or Grasses, was interesting. Each
exhibitor was restricted to a table space of 12 feet by 3 feet, but less
space could have been occupied if desired. Mr. Taylor, Newland, was
first, gaining the National Chrysanthemum Society’s silver medal and
3 guineas, with a beautiful arrangement.

In the class for twelve incurved blooms, open to exhibitors residing
in Lincolnshire, within twenty miles of Hull or anywhere within the
East Riding of Yorkshire, Mr. Burrows, gardener, Westlands, Grimsby,
was first, winning the silver cup given by Messrs. E. P. Dixon & Sons,
Queen Street, Hull. His blooms were very fine. Mr. Jarvis was second,
and Mr. Pike, Warter Priory Gardens, third. Mr. Burrows also secured
another silver cup given by the same firm for twelve Japanese blooms ;
Mr. Walker, Hotham ,Hall, being second, and ^Mr. Richard Willey,
Cottingham Gardens, third.

As already mentioned the groups were exceedingly fine. For a
group of Chrysanthemums, interspersed with foliage plants, arranged
for effect in a space of 100 square feet, the first prize being a silver
challenge cup, value 20 guineas, presented by James Reckitt, Esq., of
Swanland Manor, Vice-President of the Society, and £6, on the con¬
dition that the winner hold the cup until the next Exhibition,
Mr. Coates, gardener, Milton Terrace, Hull, was first with a beautiful
group. Mr. Cottam, Cottingham, was second, and Mr. Marchison
Hessle, third.

The other features of this grand Exhibition will be detailed in our
next issue.

GRIMSBY AND DISTRICT. — November 3rd and 4th.

The fourth annual Show was held in the Town Hall on the dates
given, and it was without doubt the best exhibition ever seen in
Grimsby. The large hall was filled with groups of Chrysanthemums,
choice foliage and flowering plants. The orchestra was beautifully
decorated with flowers and foliage plants from the nurseries of Mr.
Jno. Clark, Cromwell Road, Grimsby. Adjoining the large room was
another of rather less dimensions, filled with cut flowers and fruit.

In the class for twenty-four blooms Japanese, in not less than
eighteen varieties, the first prize went to the Rev. W. D. Thatcher,
Clent Hall, Stourbridge, who had good flowers. The second prize was
secured by Sir Hy. Bennett, Westlands, Grimsby (gardener, G. B.
Burrows), who only lost by two points. Mr. G. A. Carr, Waltham
Grove, Grimsby (gardener, Jno. Walker), was third with neat blooms.

In the class for twelve Japanese, nine varieties, the first prize went
to Mr. G. B. Burrows for excellent blooms in good condition. For twelve
blooms Japanese in six varieties Mr. S. J. Grange, The Cedars, Laceby
(gardener, Mr. Fred. Isle), was first.

For twenty-four incurved blooms G. A. Carr, Esq., Waltham
Grove (gardener, Mr. Jno. Walker), was a good first. Second, Rev.
W. D. Thatcher, Clent Hall, Stourbridge ; third. Sir Hy. Bennett,
Westlands. With twelve incurved or nine varieties, Mr. John Clark,
nurseryman, Cromwell Road, was first ; G. A. Carr, Waltham Grove,
second. Sir H. Bennet gained the special prize for the premier Japanese,
and the Rev. W. D. Thatcher for the best incurved bloom.

LIVERPOOL. — November 7th and Sth.

The fourteenth autumn Show was held in St. George’s Hall on the
above dates, and compared favourably with those of former years. The
centre of attraction was the splendid challenge vase presented by Messrs.
R. P. Ker & Sons, Aigburth Nursery, and which was won last year by
Mr. Jellicoe, gardener to F. H. Gossage, Esq., Camp Hill, Woolton, he
being required to win it two years in succession to become the owner
of the vase. This has been done, the Association being the poorer by
the loss of such a fine trophy, and Mr. Jellicoe the richer by winning
it in such a short space of time. The following is the prize list, regret
being expressed that only the larger classes can be dealt with owing to
lack of space.

For twenty-four incurved and twenty-four Japanese, not less than
thirty-six varieties, Mr. Donald Forbes, gardener to Alfred Holt, Esq ,
Crofton, Aigburth, was placed first with a very heavy stand containing
in the back row— Japanese : Col. W. B . Smith, E toile de Lyon, E . Molyneux,
Col. Smith, Stanstead White, Mrs. E. W. Clarke, Florence Davis, and .a
grand Mrs. C. H. Payne. Second row : Mrs. E. D. Adams, Mrs. F.
Jameson, W. H. Lincoln, W. Tricker, G. C. Schwabe, E. Molyneux,
Viviand Morel, and Sunflower. Front row : Viviand Morel, Sunflower,
Violet Rose, Marie Hoste, Mr. C. H. Payne, Avalanche, Chas. Davis, and
W. Tricker. The incurved, although rather early, were marked by well
built substantial blooms, the best being Queen of England, Mons. R.
Bahuant, John Doughty, John Lambert, and Baron Hirsct. A very good
second was Mr. T. Carling, gardener to Mrs. Cope, Dove Park, Woolton,
who had some fine blooms, the best being Mrs.C. H. Payne, Viviand Morel,
Princess May, Wm. Seward, Puritan, W. H. Lincoln, and Marie Hoste.
Incurved i Baron Hirsch, Mons. R. Bahuant, Madame Darrier, Alfd. Lyne,
Lady Dorothy (grand), and Lucy Kendall. Mr. G. Eaton, gardener to
W. H. Shirley, Esq., Allerton House, Allerton, was a close third with very
fresh blooms. The fourth position was occupied by Mr. Sydney Bremmell,
gardener to W. H. France Hayhurst, Esq., Overly, Wellington, Salop.
This exhibitor would probably have been placed higher had his flowers
been set up properly, for his Japanese were the heaviest and brightest
coloured in the Show.

As before remarked the Ker’s challenge vase was won by Mr. Jellicoe,
there being four entries for it, and the competition was keen. Mr.
Jellicoe won by the superiority of his incurved blooms alone. The
varieties were — Japanese : Col. W. B. Smith, Mrs, C. H. Payne, Gloire du
Rocher, Mdlle, Marie Hoste, Princess May, Wm. Seward, Chas. Davis,
E. Molyneux, Sunflower, Stanstead White, W. W. Cole, and Viviand
Morel. Incurved : Mons. R. Bahuant, Queen of England, Alfred Salter,
Lord Alcester, Jeanne d’Arc, Baron Hirsch, Emily Dale, Empress of
India, Madame Darrier, Violet Tomlin, Lord Wolseley, and Prince Alfred.
Reflexed, two of each : King of Crimsons, Chevalier Domage, Golden
Christine, Cullingfordi, Mrs. Forsyth, and James Carter. Mr. J. Edwards,
gardener to H. Tate, jun.. Esq , Allerton Beeches, was second with
splendid blooms. Mr. D. Heany, gardener to H. G. Schintz, Esq.,
Mossley House, was placed third, his stand of Japanese being admirable.
The fourth prize went to Mr. R. Foster, gardener to Mrs. Thompson,
Thingwall Hall, near Liverpool.

For eighteen incurved Mr. Jellicoe was again first, showing Mons.
R. Bahuant, Madame F. Mistral, Madame Darrier, Lord Wolseley, Baron
Hirsch, and Mrs. Coleman in fine form. Mr. C. Osborne, gardener to
Arthur Cook, Esq., Aigburth Hall, was second ; the third prize going to
Mr. J. Hayne.«, gardener to Mrs. B. C. Nicholson, Oswaldcroft, Woolton,
a fine exhibit. In the class for twelve incurved Mr. Jellicoe again took
first honours, Mr. T. Healey, gardener to Colonel Wilson, Hillside,
Allerton, being second. The prizes in another class for a similar number
went to Mr. H. Howard, gardener to A. S. Mather, Esq., Beechwood,
Woolton, and Mr. W. Wilson, gardener to H. Cunningham, Esq., Gorsey
Cop, Gateacre. For six incurved Mr. W. Hignett, gardener to C. W.
Carver, Esq., Woodbourne, West Derby, was successful.

In the class for eighteen Japanese Mr. C. Osborne eame out in strong
force, having grand blooms of Etoile de Lyon, Gloire du Rocher, Sunflower,
Florence Davis, Viviand Morel, Marie Hoste, and Mrs. F. Jameson. Mr.
T. Healey staged well for a second place. Mr. Jellicoe was third. For
twelve Japanese Mr. Sydney Bremmell was an easy first, having very
fine Viviand Morel, Excelsior, William Seward, William Lincoln,
and Beauty of Exmouth. Mr. J. Edwards was second. In the class
for twelve Japanese the honours went to Mr. Hignett, gardener
to C. W. Carver, Esq. ; the second prize going to Mr. P. Greene,
gardener to L. H. Macintyre, Esq., Greenheys, Aigburth. For six
Japanese Mr. E. Wharton, gardener to J. Findlay, Esq., Mavis Court,
Sefton Park, was first. The same exhibitor was also first for six reflexed
and twelve Pompons, in bunches of three flowers, with fresh examples.
Mr. J. Broome, gardener to Thos. Harrison, Esq., Belle Vale, Gateacre,
was first with Anemone flowered beautiful blooms. In the class for si.x
incurved and six Japanese for those who have never won a prize at
the Show, Mr. J. Grant, gardener to W. S. Gladstone, Esq., Thornlea ,
Aigburth, was successful out of several very fair stands.

Rarely have such grand trained plants been seen at Liverpool as they
were on this occasion. Mr. W. Wilson, gardener to H. Cunningham, Esq,,
who was first in the classes for three large flowering, one large flower¬
ing, one Pompon, and second for one pyramid. The second prizes going
in the two former to Mr. J. Harrison, gardener to Mr. W. G. Bateson,
Esq., Aigburth, who was also first for three Pompons and a highly effective
group of Chrysanthemums arranged for effect not to exceed 60 square
feet. The second places for three Pompons and one Pompon falling to Mr.
J. Rose, gardener to J. C. Kitchen, Esq., Huyton. For one pyramid

448

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ NoTcmber 16, 1898.

one standard, six untrained and one untrained Mr. T. Gower, gardener
to J. A. Bartlett, Esq., Mossley Hill, was the most successful exhibitor.

Miscellaneous plants have seldom been seen to greater advantage,
particularly the splendid examples of Crotons Montfontainensis and
Countess which secured Mr. Jellicoe the first prize for six stove and
greenhouse plants. Mr. T. Healey was second, having a good Erica and
Croton Williamsi, Mr. R. Pinnington, gardener to Mrs. Banner, Blacklow
House, Roby, being third, in which a choice Daphne indica rubra was
conspicuous. The class for Orchids attracted much attention by a
charming plant in the first prize collection of Mr. Cromwell, Oncidium
crispum, with over 200 fully developed flowers. Palms, Ferns, Mig¬
nonette, Primulas, Cyclamen, table plants, and Poinsettia were ad¬
mirably represented, the winners being Messrs. Gower, Cromwell,
McFall, P. Greene, J. Kelly, and A. Lewis.

As was anticipated, the fruit made one of the finest displays ever
seen in St. George’s Hall. For six dishes Mr. J. Wallis, gardener to
R. Sneyd, Esq., Keele Hall, Staffordshire, was placed first. Mr. T.
Elsworthy second ; Mr. J. Barker, Rock Ferry, being a good third.
Messrs. Glover, T. Ferguson, W. Wilson, G. Middleton, and J. Wallis
were winners in the Grape classes. The chief prizes for Apples were won
by Messrs. Davis, Hannagan, Cromwell, R. Pinnington, Large, and
Owen. The arrangements were excellent, and the Show was a credit to
all concerned. — R. P. R.

WELLS. — November 7th and 8th.

The very cold weather which prevailed on the first day of the Show
rendered the staging of tender plants diflBcult and risky. In spite of
this disadvantage the groups of Chrysanthemums and miscellaneous
plants, arranged in the Council Chamber of the Town Hall, were quite
up to the usual high standard of excellence. One of the Judges
characterised the premier group the prettiest and most perfect he had
yet seen.

In the class for large groups, open to all, Mr. Williams, gardener to
J. F. Hall, Esq., Sharcombe, led with a light arrangement. Orchids in
variety, and Crotons, brightly coloured plants of Croton Warreni, being
effectively employed as a draping for the Cyclamen, Cattleyas, and
other plants which faced the group to the boundary lines. Mr. Fewtrell,
gardener to C. C. Tudway, Esq., secured the second prize, Mr. Payne,
gardener to the Lord Bishop being third. The smaller group were also
of great merit, Mr. Jas. Gardner securing the first prize.

Cut blooms were numerous and good, the Japanese being excep¬
tionally fine, but the incurved flowers have been seen in better condition
at Wells. For twenty-four blooms, distinct, twelve incurved and twelve
Japanese, Mr. Williams was first, showing — Japanese, back row : Edwin
Molyneux, Puritan, Col. W. B. Smith, W. Tricker. Middle row : Miss
Florence Davis, Sunflower, Viviand Morel (extra good), W. H. Lincoln.
Front row : Mons. Bernard, Madame John Laing, Avalanche, and Edwin
Lonsdale. Incurved, back row ; M. R. Bahuant, Golden Empress, John
Doughty, Jeanne d’Arc. Middle row : Lord Alcester, Alfred Salter, Queen
of England, Lord Wolseley. Front row : Princess of Wales, Mrs. Coleman,
Mrs. Heale, and Miss Haggas. Mr. Fewtrell was second, Mr. Payne
third. Mr. Fewtrell had the best board of incurved, Mr. Williams
second, Mr. Payne third.

In the class for twelve Japanese, distinct, Mr. Payne led, followed by
Mr. Currey and Mr. Williams in the order of their names. Anemone-
flowered Chrysanthemums were sparingly staged ; Mr. Fewtrell being
first in the class for twelve blooms.

Mr. Williams was first with two specimen plants ; Mr. Currey
securing a similar award for four table plants. Trained plants were
well shown by Mr. Porter, gardener to A. Colson, Esq., who secured the
priricipal prizes in that section. The National Chrysanthemum
Society’s certificates were awarded to Mr. Payne for a bloom of Queen of
England, and Mr. Porter for a plant of Lord Wolseley.

Fruit was not quite equal to last year’s display, Messrs. Payne, King,
Isgar, Fewtrell and Mackenzie, being the principal prizewinners.
Messrs. Jarman & Co. showed a large table of fruit and vegetables ;
Messrs. Brown & Sons having a similar exhibit. Messrs. Mogford & Son
exhibited a magnificent bouquet of Violets which was greatly admired.
Messrs. Payne and Currey obtained awards for floral decorations ;
numerous awards were also made for windows, baskets, &c., decorated
with autumn foliage and berries. About 800 school children of the
neighbourhood visited the Show on the morning of the second day — a
feature for which the officers and Committee are to be congratulated.

TORQUAY. — November 8th.

As usual the annual autumn Exhibition was held in the Bath
Saloon. The groups were artistically arranged about the room, some
in circular form, others square, so that a full view of them was
obtained.

The entries in the cut bloom classes were not quite so numerous as in
some former years, yet sufficient were contributed to make an excellent
display. The groups lacked nothing, either in numbers cr individual
quality. Several classes were provided for groups of Chrysanthemums
apanged for effect, the principal one being for an arrangement in a
circle, 8 feet in diameter, in not less than eighteen varieties. Mr. J.
Hunt, gardener to P. B. Drinkwater, Esq., Lyncombe, Torquay, won the
premier position, having dwarf plants of mixed sections, carrying well
developed blooms and furnished with good foliage, not too much
crowded. Mr. J. Hill, gardener to the Rev. H. Rutherford, Red Cliffe,
iorqu^, was a good second. Mr. F. Ferris, gardener to J. W. Kimber,
Esq., Tracey, Cockington, third. In a smaller class, Mr. W. Satterly,

gardener to Mrs. Matthews, Braddon Villa, Torquay, won the first prize
with a most creditable display. In the class for a group of miscellaneous
plants arranged for effect, the tallest plant not to exceed 10 feet high.
Mr. Satterley was an easy first with a bright arrangement ; Mr. H.
Dammerell, gardener to Lady Macgregor, Glencarnock, Torquay, second.
Orchids were most creditably shown by Mr. G. Medland, gardener to
Morton Sparke, Esq., Rooklands, Torquay, and Mr. J. Slowman, gardener
to Captain Fane Tucker, Braddon Tor, Torquay. Mr. Satterley had the
best table plants, compact plants of suitable kinds, well coloured.

Cut blooms were good in quality if not numerous. The principal
class was for thirty-six, half incurved and the remainder Japanese.
There was but one exhibitor, however, in this class — Mr. Foster,.
gardener to H. H. Spencer, Esq., Teignmouth, who was worthily awarded
the first prize. The Japanese were heavy fresh, and well arranged.
Col. B. Smith, E. Molyneux, Viviand Morel, Mrs. F. A. Spalding, A. H.
Lincoln, Vice-President Audiguier, and Princess May were the most
noteworthy. The incurved were large and neatly set up. For twelve
incurved several good stands of blooms were staged. Mr. H. Veale,
gardener to the Rev. A. H. Simms, Wolborough Rectory, Newton Abbott,,
was first with heavy fresh blooms. Princess of Wales, Lord Alcester,
Jeanne d’Arc, and Madame Darrier were prominent. Mr. Foster second.
The last two exhibitors changed places in the next class, that for twelve
Japanese. Viviand Morel, Edwin Molyneux, Violet Rose, Mdlle. M.
Hoste, Etoile de Lyon, Col. W, B. Smith, and Alberic Lunden were
exceedingly meritorious. Mr. Veale also staged well.

Anemone blooms were thoroughly well represented. Mr. Veale was
an easy first with six varieties ; Gluck, Grand d’ Alveole, Mrs. Judge Bene¬
dict, Miss A. Lowe, and Delaware were the best. For six reflexed, any
one variety, Mr. J. Slowman showed Cloth of Gold in really good con¬
dition, and took first prize. Mr. Veale staged Mrs. J. Benedict in the
class for six of any one Anemone variety for first prize ; he also won
first prize for six incurved, any one variety, with compact examples of
Jeanne d’Arc, and for the same number Japanese, in one variety, with
Viviand Morel. Mr. Foster was second.

In the class for six single-flowered blooms, Mr. Wilkinson staged
well developed blooms of Admiral T. Symonds, Mr. Satterley was
second. Mr. Foster had the premier Japanese bloom, an almost perfect
one of Viviand Morel, a similar honour falling to Mr. Veale in the
incurved section for Jeanne d’Arc. For distinct for twelve incurved
and twelve Japanese, confined to the district, there was strong competi¬
tion, Messrs. Satterley and Wilkinson being first and second in the
order of their names.

Fruit made a good display. Mr. Foster won premier honours for
black Grapes with Alicante good in every respect. Apples and Pears
were admirably shown .

Non-competitive groups were numerous, Messrs. R. Veitch & Son,
Exeter, had a collection of Orchids. Mr. W. B. Small, Torquay, had
a large group of Chrysanthemums, representing many of the newer
kinds. Messrs. Curtis & [Sanford, Torquay, had a similar group.
Messrs. W. H. Burridge & Sons staged a very attractive group of
miscellaneous flowering and foliage plants from the South Devon Fruit
Farm, Torquay. Mr. Pender brought excellent Tomatoes, Mushrooms,
and Gros Colman Grapes.

CIRENCESTER.— November 8th and 9th.

This Society under the able direction of the Honorary Secretary,
Mr. Frank Sare, assisted by a good working Committee, continues to
make progress, the gardeners well backed up by amateurs and cottagers,
arranging a really fine all-round Exhibition.

There w'ere two classes for groups of Chrysanthemums, those
occupying a space of 63 square feet being allowed to use Ferns and
fine-foliaged plants. In this instance Mr. T. Arnold, gardener to Earl
Bathurst, Cirencester, was first. The second prize went to Mr.
W. Lamer, gardener to J. Hyde, Esq. With smaller groups four
competed, Mr. T. Painter, gardener to C. Green, Esq., being a good first ,*
Mr. J. Young, gardener to W. Warne, Esq., second ; Mr. J. Rouse,
gardener to J. Mullings, Esq., third ; and Mr. W. Kirby, gardener to
F. Sare, Esq., highly commended. Specimen plants were fairly good,
and with these the most successful were Mr. 0. Orpet, gardener to
the Misses Brown ; Mr. G. Bignell, gardener to Mrs. Brewin ; Mr.
H. R. Saunders, gardener to James Taylor, Esq. ; and Mr. W. Ezzle,
gardener to the Rev. G. A. C. Kempson. Cottagers also exhibited quite
a large number of well-grown plants. Three gardeners competed with
groups of miscellaneous plants, but Mr. T. Arnold was very easily first
Mr. D. Elkins was a creditable second ; and Mr. 0. Orpet third. Bouvardias,
Poinsettias, Cyclamens, Mignonette, Zonal Pelargoniums, and table plants
were all remarkably well shown, principally by the gardeners already
named.

Cut blooms were more numerous and of superior quality generally
to what have previously been seen at Cirencester. In the class for
eighteen each of Japanese and incurved varieties, the first prize went to
Mr. G. Price, gardener to Mrs. Bulley, who had W. H. Lincoln, E. Moly¬
neux, Florence Davis, W. Tricker, Miss A. Hartshorn, Viviand Morel,
Alberic Lunden, Stanstead White, A. H. Neve, Mrs. F. Jameson, Sarah
Owen, Sunflower, Boule d’Or, Gloire du Rocher, Avalanche, Golden
Wedding, Elaine, and J. Delaux of Japanese varieties, and large solid
blooms of incurved Empress of India, Lord Wolseley, Jeanne d’Arc,
Prince Alfred, Lord Alcester, Mons. Bahuant, Miss Haggas, Princess of
Wales, Mrs. Coleman, Violet Tomlin, Empress Eugenie, John Salter,
Pink Venus, Queen of England, Jardin des Plantes, Princess Beatrice,
Madame Darrier, and Refulgens. Mr. D. Elkins was second, his blooms

November 16, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

449

being also very good. Mr. Price was again well first with twenty-four
blooms, twelve each of Japanese and incurved. Mr. Elkins was second.
For twelve Japanese Mr. Price was again first, Mr. F. Bxell, gardener
to E. A. Leatham, Misarden Park, being a good second, and Mr. Elkins

Mr. Elkins was first. Mr. Price was second in this class and first with
twelve reflexed blooms. The classes for vases of Chrysanthemums with
Fern fronds was particularly well filled, several ladies competing.

The silver medal of the National Chrysanthemum Society was

third. The competition in the class for six blooms of any one Japanese
variety was very keen, Mr. F. Exell winning the first prize with Viviand
Morel ; Mr. Price being second with Mdlle. Marie Hoste ; and Mr.
W. Taylor third with Avalanche. With Anemone-flowered varieties

awarded to Mr. Arnold for his admirable group of Chrysanthemums,
and the certificates went respectively to Mr. G. Bignell for a fine
specimen plant of Viviand Morel, and Mr. Price for collection of cut
blooms.

450

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ November 16, 1893.

Fruit and vegetables were shown, the prizes being principally won
by Messrs. Exell, Arnold, Price, and others, whose names have repeatedly
appeared in this report. Mention must also be made of the grand bank
of Chrysanthemums, and a variety of other flowering and fine-foliage
plants, arranged, not for competition, by Messrs. John Jeffries & Son,
Cirencester,

KIDDERMINSTER.— November 8th and 9th.

This, the first annual Exhibition of the recently formed Kidder¬
minster Chrysanthemum Society, was held in the Town Hall on the
above dates under very favourable auspicies, and it is hoped, considering
the patronage afforded, that it will prove an annual event. Considering
the first attempt, the arrangements were admirable, and well carried out
by the very efficient and hard-working Committee.

Not the least praiseworthy exhibits were the non-competitive groups
of plants and stands of blooms which were set up by neighbouring
gentlemen. Particular mention must be made of the magnificent group
arranged by Mr, T. Poole, gardener to W. Hatton, Esq., Hill Grove ; also
Mr. W. Farrant, gardener to Mrs. Brown-Westhead, Lea Castle ; Mr.
J. Kemp, gardeaer to Sir Thos. Lea, Bart., M.P. ; and Mr. C. Lee,
gardener to F. Elkington, Esq. ; likewise the stands of blooms by Mr.
R, Parker, gardener to J. Corbett, Esq., Impney Hall, Droitwich ;
G. W. Grosvenor, Esq. (gardener, Mr. Gold) ; R. B, Martin, Esq., M.P.,
and A. F. Godson, Esq., M.P. Another very praiseworthy non-competi¬
tive exhibit was nine fine bunches of Grapes set up by Mr. T. Poole.
These comprised equal numbers of Mrs. Pince, Gros Colman, and Lady
Downe’s ; all beautifully finished.

For a group of Chrysanthemums the first prize was awarded to
Mr. F. Walters, gardener to A. Baldwin, Esq., M.P., Wilden House,
Stourport. Second, Mr. H. J. Dines, gardener to W. F. Spencer, Esq.,
Spring Grove, Bewdley. Third, Mr. T. Hooper, gardener to Major
Goodwin, J P. The next class was for a group of Chrysanthemums,
flowering and foliage plants, arranged for effect, and here Mr. J. Wood-
berry, gardener to E. C. Newmarch, Esq., The Lakes, was awarded the
first prize, Mr. W. F. Spencer second, and Mr. T. Hooper third. One
specimen plant (Japanese). — First, Mr. T. Hooper and second Mr. G.
Whikeman, gardener to the Bishop of Worcester.

In the class for twenty-four cut blooms, half to be Japanese and half
incurved, Mr. S. Wallis, gardener to Mrs. Nash, Severn House, Bewd¬
ley, was well ahead, he having, amongst others, good blooms of Japanese,
Sunflower, Mdme. E. A. Carriere, Viviand Morel, Mdlle. Marie Hoste,
and Avalanche. Second, Mr. T. Hooper. With twelve blooms of Japanese
Mr. D. Thomas, gardener to the Rev. J. L. Chesshire, gained the premier
award for a really beautiful stand, Mr. F. Walters and Mr. T.
Hooper having the remaining prizes. For twelve blooms of Japanese,
the same number of incurved, and also for six of each section, the
prizes were divided between Mr. J. Smith, Mr. D. Thomas, Mr. G.
Whikeman, Mr. H. J. Dines, and F. Walter.

The remaining sections of the exhibition were devoted to Primulas,
Zonal Pelargoniums, Ferns and fruit, this latter section comprising
good stands of Grapes, Apples, and Pears, besides honorary exhibits of
fruit and vegetables:

HORNSEY.— November 8th and 9th.

On each occasion during the past four years the annual Exhibition
of the Hornsey and District Chrysanthemum Society has proved a
success from an horticultural point of view, if not always financially.
The same may be said of the Show this year, which was held in the
National Hall, Hornsey, on the above dates, and it is to be hoped that
the returns were such as to relieve the Society from the slight financial
embarrassment with which the current year was started. Much credit
is due to Mr. Courtney Page, the Honorary Secretary, and to Mr.
Newman, the Secretary, for the admirable manner in which the exhibits
were arranged. The cut blooms were remarkably good, as also were the
groups and trained plants. In addition to these there were flowers and
plants from the gardens of the President of the Society, H. R. Williams,
Esq., J.P., which assisted much in forming one of the best autumn shows
ever held in the district.

The Japanese blooms in most of the open classes were exceptionally
fine, especially those shown by Mr. E. Rowbottom, gardener to H. R.
Williams, Esq., The Priory, Hornsey. This well-known exhibitor was
in his best form, and secured the first prize in the class for twenty-four
Japanese. The flowers staged were large and well finished, and included
Golden Dragon, Excelsior, Mdlle. Thfirese Rey (grand). President Borel,
Mrs. Falconer Jameson, Vice-President Audiguier, a seedling named
Hoar Frost, Van der Heede, Kentish Yellow, G. C. Schwabe, Primrose
League, W. Seward, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Colonel W. B. Smith, Viviand
Morel, C. Shrimpton, Mr. E. Whittle, Lord Brooke, Florence Davis,
Gloire du Rocher, Alberic Lunden, Etoile de Lyon, and Sunflower. A
certificate was granted to Mr. Rowbottom in addition to the first prize.
Mr. J. Brookes, Highgate, was second with a stand of good blooms.
Mr. A. Bonyard, 85, Fairfax Road, Hornsey, secured the special prize
open to amateurs for eighteen blooms of Japanese, incurved, and reflexed
varieties. Mr. W. Lester was second, and Mr. B. R. Durrant third. Mr.
Sears, Gordon Road, Hornsey, won another prize given by the President.
Mr. W. Northormer, 23, Wolsely Road, Crouch End, secured the silver
cup given by Messrs. VV. Wood & Sons, of Wood Green, for eighteen
Japanese blooms, showing these in splendid condition.

The class for twelve incurved blooms brought forth a good competi¬
tion. Mr. J. C. Turk, gardener to F. Boney, Esq., Cholmelly Lodge,
Highgate, secured the first prize with a stand of neat blooms. The

varieties shown were Lord Wolseley, Princess of Wales, Madame
F. Mistral, Mrs. Heale, Prince Alfred, Mrs. Coleman, Violet Tomlin,
Miss M. A. Haggas, Refulgens, Baron Hirsch, White Beverley, and
Madame Darrier. The second prize went to Mr. Rowbottom, who had
much larger flowers than those in the leading stand, but they were
rather rough. There were, however, fine examples of Baron Hirsch,
Madame Darrier, and Jeanne d’Arc included in the stand. Mr. G. Amos,
gardener to W. Lister, Esq., Ladywell, Hornsey, was third. Mr. Row-
bottom had the best six blooms of one incurved variety, showing
Madame Darrier. Mr. J. Brooks followed with the same variety, and
Mr. E. Jones was third with neat examples of Mrs. Geo. Rundle.

Mr. Turk was placed first for a stand of thirty-six Pompons, twelve
varieties, three blooms of each. The flowers staged were remarkably good,
especially Black Douglas, Comte de Morny, and Nellie Rainford. Mr,
E. Rowbottom was a good second with fine blooms. Mr. Rowbottom was
first with six Japs, showing magnificent blooms of Col. W. B. Smith.
Mr. J. Brookes was second with good blooms of Avalanche, Mr. E. Jones
following with Viviand Morel. The class for twelve Japanese brought
forth a good competition, the first prize, however, falling to Mr. Row-
bottom, who was followed by Messrs. T. L. Turk and W. Northover, all
staging fine blooms. The same exhibitors were placed first, second, and
third respectively in the class for eighteen blooms, the prizes being given
by Mrs. Williams. Mr. Rowbottom also gained the first prize in a
special class for twelve large Anemone flowered varieties, staging these
in fine condition. Mr. G. Amos was second. In the amateurs’ and
cottagers’ sections the cut blooms were very good, and reflected credit
upon the growers, Mr. J. Newman, 28, St. Joseph’s Road, Hornsey,
secured several prizes, including a first for Pompons, and for which also
a certificate was awarded.

Groups and trained plants were well represented. For the best
group ol Chrysanthemums arranged for effect, Mr. E. Rowbottom was
placed first with an excellent collection of well grown plants.
Mr. G. Amos was second with a creditable arrangement. In another
class for a group, Messrs. Sears, Durrant, and Courtney Page secured
the prizes. Mr. J. Brookes had the best four trained plants, these being
fine specimens and well flowered. A certificate was also awarded for
this exhibit. Mr. B. R. Durrant was second, and Mr. G. Amos third.
Mr. Brookes likewise succeeded in gaining the special prize given by
Mr. C. W. Cousins of Wood Green for two trained specimens. Table
plants. Primulas, and bouquets of Chrysanthemums were well shown
by Messrs. E. Rowbottom, J. Brookes, G. Amos, and W. Wilkinson.

Miscellaneous exhibits included a group of plants from Mr. A.
M Gregor, Prospect Nursery, Turnpike Lane, Hornsey, who also had a
number of tastefully made bouquets and wreaths, which formed quite
a feature in the Show,

Fruit and vegetables were extensively shown in various classes, as
also were bouquets and floral decorations, but want of space precludes
further mention.

BATH. — November 8th and 9th.

This Show was held under rather more favourable circumstances as
regards the weather than usual, and was better attended accordingly.
With the exception of trained specimens the display was well up to the
high standard always maintained at Bath,

Groups of Chrysanthemums were a great feature, the competition
being very keen and close. Mr, W. Davis, gardener to S. P. Budd, Esq.,
Bath, was placed first, his group being remarkably well finished. There
were also fine flowers in the banks formed by Mr, Kerslake, gardener to
the Rev. E. Handley, and Mr. Southard, gardener to W. J. Brown, Esq.,
who were respectively second and third. This year, for the first time,
prizes were offered for groups of Chrysanthemums with foliage plants
and Ferns, and in this instance Mr. T. J. Tate, gardener to W. Pumphrey,
Esq., was first, his arrangement being less formal and more attractive
than that which gained R. B. Cater, Esq., the second prize. Messrs. J.
Southard, Charles Lee, T. J. Tate, and J. West were among the most
successful with trained plants, but these, as before stated, were not good.
Miscellaneous plants were well shown by R. B. Cater, Esq., and Mr. W.
Bergren, and ornamental foliaged plants by Messrs. E. S. Cole & Sons
and J. T. Holmes, Esq. Orchids were remarkably good for the time of
year, the first prize for a group shown by J. T. Holmes, Esq. Mr. R. B,
Cater was a good second. Table plants were well shown by Mr. W,
Strugnell, gardener to W. H. Long, Esq., M.P., Rood Ashton, and Mr.
T. J. Tate. There was a good display of Primulas, Cyclamens, and
Bouvardias.

Cut blooms may fairly be said to have well saved the reputation of
the Show. In every class the competition was very close and good, the
Judges having a most difficult matter to decide which should have the
prizes. In the premier class, that for twenty-four Japanese varieties,
distinct, Mr. J. Aplin, gardener to W. M. Baker, Esq., Gloucester, was
first, having massive and fresh blooms of Alberic Lunden, Avalanche,
D. B. Crane, Sunflower, Excelsior, E. Molyneux, Ruth Cleveland,
Primrose League, Charles Davis, Mons. Henri Robert, White Louis
Boehmer, W. Seward, Viviand Morel, Edward Beckett, Mrs. C. W.
Wheeler, Robert Owen, A. H. Lincoln, A. H. Neve, Kate Mursell, Prefect
Robert, Gloire de Rocher, and W. Tricker. Mr. P. Mann, gardener to
W. H. Laverton, Esq., Westbury, was awarded the second prize. Mr.
Robinson, gardener to Lord Justice Lopes, Westbury, took the third
prize. In the class for twelve Japanese varieties Mr. P. Mann was first,
having fine blooms of G. C. Schwabe, Etoile de Lyon, F. W. Flight,
M. E. A. Carriere, A. H. Lincoln, Condor, Excelsior, Princess May,
Sunflower, Mrs. C. W. Wheeler, Viviand Morel, and Col. Smith. Mr.

NoTember 16, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

461

Kobinson wa8 a good second, and Mr, W. Strugnell a creditable
third. The best six varieties were shown by Mr. W. Follen, gardener to
J. D. Willis, Esq. ; Mr. Tucker, gardener to Major Clarke, being second,
and Mr. Tickle, gardener to T. Carr, Esq., third.

The competition with large flowering Chrysanthemums was not quite
so strong as in the foregoing classes, though better than at one time
anticipated. Mr. J. Aplin was well first for twenty-four varieties,
staging fresh and fairly massive blooms of Lord Alcester, Mons. Bahuant,
Mrs. Robinson King, Empress of India, John Lambert, Princess of
Teck, Camille Flammarion, Princess of Wales, Mrs. Clibran, Matthew
Russell, Hero of Stoke Newington, John Salter, Miss B. Wilson, Queen
of England, Lord Wolseley, Golden Empress, Miss Haggas, Madame
Harrier, Jeanne d’Arc, Lady Dorothy, Mrs. N. Davis, Empress Eugenie,
Florence McDonald, and Nil Desperandum. The second prize was well
won by Mr. G. H. Copp, gardener to W. G. S. Erie Drax, Esq.,
Sherborne, and Mr. Robinson was third . For twelve varieties Mr. J. H.
Copp was first, John Salter, Mons. Bahuant, Nil Desperandum, and Mrs.
Robinson King being the best in his stand. Mr. P. Mann followed
closely, while the third prize went to Mr. W. Marsh, gardener to
T. P. W. Butt, Esq. Mr. W. Follen was first, Mr. Tucker second, and
Mr. G. Pymm, gardener to Mrs. Gouldsmith, third, for six varieties.

The best Anemone-flowered varieties were shown by Mr. Robinson,
the second prize going to Mr. Aplin. The former was also awarded a
first prize for six new varieties sent out since 1889, winning with
W. K. Woodcock, J. S. Dibben, Beauty of Exmouth, Viviand Morel,
and Mrs. Nisbet, Mr. P. Mann was second. Mr. Robert Owen, Maiden¬
head, staged twelve new Japanese varieties that have been duly certifi¬
cated, but were not shown at their best or sufficiently large to judge of
their merits. They consisted of Thomas Hewett, R. Dean, Mr. G. B.
Darby, Thomas Wilkins, Rose Wynne, W. H. Fowler, Duke of York,
Charles Davis, Viscountess Hambledon,and Etna. The champion bloom
in the Show was found in a perfect flower of incurved Mrs. Robinson
King, shown by Mr. J. Aplin.

Fruit, as usual, was extensively shown, and of excellent quality.
For a collection of six dishes, Mr. W. Nash, gardener to the Duke of
Beaufort, Badminton, was well first, Mr. Pymm was second ; and Mr.
J. Gibson, gardener to Earl Cowley, Chippenham, third. Mr. W. Taylor
was first for four bunches of Grapes in two varieties. Other Grapes of
high finish were well shown by Miss Marriott, Mr. Taylor, and Mr.
Nash. Apples were remarkable for their size and rich colouring, and
Pears were also good. Among the prizewinners were Messrs. Hall,
Strugnell, Garraway, Dunn, Leeson, and H. Taylor.

BOURNEMOUTH. — November 8th and 9th.

The seventh Exhibition of this Society was held in the Winter Gar¬
dens, and a more suitable place for the purpose could scarcely be found.
The space was again taxed severely, several good groups being arranged
around the sides, while the cut flowers were plentiful. Fruit and
vegetables were also there in abundance. In the cut bloom section the
principal attraction was in the class for thirty-six (eighteen Japanese
and eighteen incurved) ; first prize a silver challenge cup, value
£10 10s., to become the absolute property of any exhibitor winning it
twice, with money prizes added. Mr. N. Molyneux, gardener to J. Car¬
penter, Esq., Rooksbury Park, Wiltshire, was well ahead of the other
competitors with the following collection.' — Viviand Morel, G. C.
Schwabe, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Etoile de Lyon, President Borel, Lord
Brooke, Viviand Morel, Col. W. B. Smith, Charles Davis (the finest bloom
we have seen exhibited this season), Alberic Lunden, Etoile de Lyon
and Gloire du Rocher. Incurved included Queen of England, Lord
Alcester, Golden Empress, Empress of India, Beauty, Mrs. Robinson
King, John Lambert, John Lambert and Miss Haggas. His collection
was in splendid condition, being large and well finished. Mr. Thos.
Wilkins .gardener to Lady Theodora Guest, Henstridge, was placed
second, and Mr. G. W. Taylor, gardener to Mrs. Elphinstone, third.

For twelve Japanese Mr. Wilkins was awarded first honours with
Viviand Morel, Colonel W. B, Smith, H. H. Neve, Gloire du Rocher,
Edwin Molyneux, Mrs. J. S. Fogg, Etoile de Lyon, Florence Davis,
Excelsior, Sunflower, Val d’Andorre, and Condor. Mr. Taylor was second,
and Mr. Grace, gardener to W. R. Neave, Esq., third, all showing well.
In the corresponding class for twelve incurved blooms Messrs. Molyneux,
Taylor, and Grace shared the honours in the order of their names.
Anemones were well shown by Mr. Grace, who secured the first position ;
and Mr. Phillips, gardener to T. J. Hamkinson, Esq., the second.

Reflexed blooms were well shown by Mr. Woolford, gardener to Mrs.
Trevor Goff, Lymington, and Mr. T. Head, gardener to Mrs. C. Stuart,
Christchurch, who were placed first and second respectively. Mr. Wood¬
ford’s collection consisted of Amy Furze, Christine in all the varieties
(Golden, White, Pink, and Peach), King of the Crimsons, Chevalier
Homage, and Cullingfordi ; these were all well finished. The finest
Japanese bloom was shown by Mr. Ingram, and it was a glorious flower
of Mrs. Alpheus Hardy. The now well known Viviand Morel secured
the second and third positions.

In one class for groups of 60 feet, Mr. T. K. Ingram, Parkstone, was a
splendid first, well arranged, bright, and dwarf. In another class for
50 square feet, Mr. Eldridge, gardener to G. W. Young, Esq., obtained the
premier position. Mr. G. Scretch, gardener to the Misses Evans, was
awarded the second prize. Mr. G. J. Fenwick was a good third. For
a 40 square feet group Mr. Charles Brampton, the Rev. J. Rodgers, and
Mrs. Squires were placed in the order of their names ; and for one
30 square feet the awards fell to Mr. T. W. Tharle, Mr. Frank Hardy,

and W. H. Mate, who were placed first, second, and third respectively,
all exhibiting grandly.

Fruit, vegetables, dinner-table plants, epergnes, bouquets, shoulder
sprays, buttonholes, and honey, all in their separate classes, well
contested, and made a large and attractive display. The Show was
patronised by a large and fashionable assembly. Mr. Spong, the zealous
Secretary, Mr. Swaffield, the Treasurer, and Dr. Hitchcock, the Referee,
and others of the Executive laboured hard to make it a success, and
their efforts were rewarded.

WEYBRIDGE. — November 9th.

The nineteenth annual Exhibition of the Weybridge and District
Chrysanthemum Society was held on the above date. Though not large
the Show was a highly meritorious one, the cut blooms especially being
of splendid quality. Taken as a whole the Show was a slight improve¬
ment on its predecessors, due probably to the energetic action of Mr.
G. Masters, the Secretary, and to the Show Committee, by whom the
arrangements were carried out in a praiseworthy manner.

The principal class was for forty-eight blooms, to include twenty-four
Japanese and twenty-four incurved, in not less than thirty-six distinct
varieties. There were three competitors, Mr. Carpenter, gardener to
Major Collis Browne, Byfleet, proving an excellent first. The blooms
staged were fresh, clean, and weighty, amongst the best being Mrs.
Harman Payne, Viviand Morel, Edwin Molyneux, Col. W. B. Smith,
William Seward, Gloire du Rocher, Sunflower, Excelsior, Lord Brooke,
John Doughty, Queen of England, Baron Hirsch, Princess of Wales,
Madame Darrier, Alfred Salter, Mrs. G. Coleman, Lord Alcester, and
Alfred Lyne, Mr. J. Quartermain, gardener to C. E. Smith, Esq.,
Cobham, was second ; and Mr. J. Cook, gardener to J. S. Sassoon, Esq.,
Walton, third. In the class for thirty-six flowers, eighteen Japanese and
eighteen incurved, Mr. J. Hopkins, gardener to Mrs. Woodderman,
Walton, was placed first, thereby winning the silver cup. The blooms
shown were magnificent, amongst the best being Gloire du Rocher, Col.
W. B. Smith, Edwin Molyneux, Sunflower, Viviand Morel, John Doughty,
Baron Hirsch, Jeanne d’Arc, and Empress of India. Mr. Quartermain
was a close second with handsome examples ; Mr. Caryer, gardener to
A. G. Meissuer, Weybridge, being third.

Mr. Felgate, gardener to the Duchess of Wellington, Hersham, was
first for twelve incurved blooms, distinct, showing fine examples of
Queen of England, Empress of India, Alfred Salter, Princess of Wales,
and Violet Tomlin (superb) amongst others. Messrs. Caryer and Hopkins
were second and third in the order of their names. There were six
competitors for twelve Japs, distinct, the stands staged being very
fine throughout. Mr. R. Ridge, gardener to Swifton Eady, Esq.,
Weybridge, was a splendid first, Mr. Caryer being a close second, and
Mr. Hopkins third. For six Japanese, distinct, Mr. Swan, gardener to
G. Murray Smith, Esq., Weybridge, was first, closely followed by Mr.
Pagran, gardener to A. F. Hobhouse, Esq., Weybridge, second, and Mr.
Cheesman, gardener to — Riddell, Esq., Walton, third. Mr. Thorne,
gardener to A. E. Flood, Esq., Walton, took the premier position for six
incurved, distinct ; Mr. Cawte, gardener to H. Preston Thomas, Esq.,
Weybridge, was second ; and Mr. Cheesman third. For six incurved,
one variety, Mr. Hopkins was first with Violet Tomlin in magnificent
form, Mr. Felgate being second with the same variety, Mr. Ridge being
third with M. P. Martignat. Mr. Stedman was first with Sunflower in
the class for six Japs, one variety, Mr. Felgate being second, and Mr.
Ridge third . For twelve reflexed blooms Mr. Pagran was accorded the
premier position, Messrs. Caryer and Felgate being second and third
as named, Mr. Cawte, the only competitor in the class for twelve
Anemone Pompons, and was deservedly awarded the first prize. There
were two competitors for six specimen plants, dwarf trained, Mr.
Cawte being placed first, closely followed by Mr. Swan.

Bouquets were shown in great numbers, and in the one to which
the premier award was given the arrangement was charming, perfect
taste having been shown in the placing of the flowers by Mrs. Flood.
Fruit was largely shown. Apples and Pears being splendid. Mr. Davies,
gardener to G. Churchill, Esq., Weybridge, arranged a stand of forty-
eight grand blooms not for competition.

WESTON-SUPER-MARE. — November 9th.

All things considered this Show was the best of the series of nine
exhibitions that have been hell in the above mentioned town. Mr.
Vanes is the Hon. Secretary, and no fault could well be found with
the way in which he and the Committee do their work.

Specimen plants are particularly well grown in this neighbourhood.
The first prize for four large flowering varieties was won by Messrs.
Brooks & Son, Weston-super-Mare. Mr. W. Daffurn, gardener to
Donald Cox, was second with somewhat smaller but remarkably well
grown plants ; the third prize going to Mr. C. Holland, gardener to
W. Ash, Esq., who also had fine plants. In the corresponding class for
Japanese varieties Mr. C. Holland was first, Messrs. W. Brooks & Son
were a very close second, and Mr. Daffurn third. For a single specimen
Mr. Holland was first for a grand plant of Mrs. Rundle, 6 feet through,
and well flowered ; Messrs. Brooks & Son being second, and Mr. Daffurn
third. The last named took a first prize for standards, Mr. Holland
following with plants only slightly inferior. There were several other
classes for trained plants, but mention can only be made of the very
fine Pompons shown by Messrs, Brooks & Son. Mr. C. Holland also
had remarkably good Pompons, his plants being only a little smaller.
Prizes were also provided for untrained plants of Japanese, incurved, and
I large flowered varieties, but the results were not altogether satisfactory.

452

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Noyember 16, 1893.

Messrs. H. Lambert, gardener to the Rev. W. W. Aldridge, W. Treble,
gardener to T. Mullins, Esq. ; and F. Blackmore, were among the most
successful exhibitors of these.

The groups were very much better than usual, and were quite a
feature. Mr. H. \V. Whitehead, gardener to R. W. Gibbs, Esq., arranged an
admirable group. Mr. Summerhayes, gardener to H. Pethick, Esq., was
second, Mr. F. Williams, gardener to R. Cox, Esq., being third with a
group that would have been well first in previous years. Three good
groups of miscellaneous plants were shown, Messrs. Brooks & Son being
first, Mr. Daffurn second, and Mr. Summerhayes third. Table plants.
Primulas, and such like were also shown in good style.

Cut blooms occupied the best part of two long tables, and but few
inferior fiowers were seen. The first prize for twenty-four incurved
blooms, in not less than eighteen varieties, was well won by Mr. J. Lloyd,
gardener to Vincent Stuckey, Esq., Langport, who had Lord Alcester,
Alfred Salter, Empress of India, Golden Empress, Mons. Bahuant,
Jeanne d’Arc, Mrs. Coleman, Prince Alfred, Mrs. Heale, Lord Wolseley,
Jardin des Plantes, Miss Haggas, Mrs. N. Davis, Violet Tomlin, Lady
Dorothy, Cherub, Hero of Stoke Newington, and Princess Beatrice, all
in good condition. Messrs. W. Brooks & Son were second. With twelve
incurved varieties Mr. J. Atwell, gardener to J. B. Bain, Esq., Clifton,
was first, some of his best being Mr. Brunlees, Jeanne d’Arc, Baron
Hirsch, Novelty, Violet Tomlin, and Lord Wolseley. Mr, G. W. Deake,
Cardiff, was second ; while for six varieties Mr. A, Currey, gardener to
C. Bailey, Esq., Frome, was first, and Mr. G. Sutton, gardener to W. A.
Todd, Esq., second. The best twenty-four Japanese varieties were
shown by Mr. J. Lloyd, who had fine fresh blooms of Etoile de Lyon,
E. Molyneux, R. George, Mrs. C. H. Payne, Colonel W. B. Smith, Vice-
President Audiguier, W. W, Coles, W, H. Lincoln, Excelsior, Florence
Davis, R. Owen, Madame Appuis, G. Daniels, Madame Picard, Prefect
Roberts, C. Davis, Viviand Morel, Ralph Brocklebank, J. S. Schwabe,
President Borel, Beauty of Castlewood,Miss A. Hartshorn, Louis Boehmer,
Sunflower. Mr, Deake was second, and Messrs. Brooks & Son third.
Mr. Daffurn was first for twelve varieties. Mr. A. Curry and Mr. J.
Atwell were placed equal second. The first prize for six varieties went
to Mr. J. Marshall, gardener to J. Dole, Esq,, Clifton, Mr G. Sutton,
gardener to W. A. Todd, Esq., being a close second. Mr. Daffurn had
the best reflexed varieties, and Mr. Atwell took the second prize.

The bouquets of Chrysanthemums and Fern fronds were particularly
attractive, that which gained Messrs. Brooks & Son the premier prize
being really beautiful, Mr. J. H. Deaske was second, and Mr. A. Curry
third. Messrs. Brooks & Son were also the most successful with other
bouquets, vases, and baskets of flowers ; this firm also showing a
magnificent cross not for competition.

The show of fruit was good. Mr. J. Marshall was first for excellent
Alicante Grapes, Mr. Daffurn being second ; while in the any other
Black class Mr. Daffurn was first for grand bunches of Gros Guillaume,
Mr. Curry being second with Mrs. Pince’s Muscat in good condition.
The best Muscats were shown by Mr. J. Marshall, Mr. J. Atwell being a
close second. Messrs, Daffurn, F. Williams, and W. Summerhayes were
among the most successful in the Apple and Pear classes.

BIRKENHEAD AND WIRRAL. — November 9th.

The seventh annual Exhibition of the above Society was held on the
above date, and although the competition in some of the larger classes
was not so good as one would have liked, yet everything staged was of
high quality. The arrangements were admirable, and every exhibit could
be seen to proper advantage.

In the class for eighteen Japanese blcoms Mr. T. Ransom, gardener
to H. R. Rodger, Esq., Spital, was first, staging in the back row magni¬
ficent blooms of Mrs, C. H. Payne, G. C. Schwabe, W. H. Lincoln,
E. Molyneux, Marie Hoste, Viviand Morel. Second row: Wm. Seward,
Mrs. E. W. Clarke, Gloire du Rocher, Louis Boehmer (very fine), Beauty
of Castle Hill, Col. W. B, Smith. Front row : Florence Davis, Sunflower,
J. Shrimpton, Miss Anna Hartshorn, Chas. Davis, and L’Enfant des
Mondes (splendid). The second honours went to Mr. J. Trelford, gardener
toC. Gatehouse, Esq., Noctorum. Mr, J. Williams, gardener to C. J.
Proctor, Esq., Noctorum, was third with a stand of bright coloured smaller
flowers. For twelve Japanese Mr. H. Howard, gardener to A. S,
Mather, Esq., Beechwood, Woolton, put up a splendid stand, the best
being Chas, Davis, Marie Hoste, W. H. Lincoln, and Col. Smith.
Mr. J. Pink, gardener to J. T Sealby, Esq., was a very fair second.

For eighteen incurved Mr. T. Ransom was the only exhibitor, but
his stand was well worthy the first prize awarded. Very fine indeed
were his blooms of Robert Cannell, Emily Dale, Mons. R, Bahuant,
Jeanne d’Arc, Prince Alfred, Mrs. Coleman, and Princess Beatrice.
For twelve incurved Mr. H. Howard showed in fine form Mens. R.
Bahuant, Emily Dale, Baron Hirsch, Violet Tomlin, Mrs. Coleman, and
Jeanne d’Arc. Mr. J. Trelford was second, and Mr. J. Williams third.
In the local class for twelve Japanese Mr. Ransom repeated his successes ;
Mr. J. Pink was second, Mr. J. Williams third. The same exhibitor was
again first in the class for twelve incurved. For six Japanese Mr.
J. Bradshaw, gardener to C, W. Pitt Taylor, Rock Ferry, put up special
stand. Mr. W. Thomas, gardener to G. E. Grayson, Esq., was first for
six incurved Lord Wolseley. For six incurved and six Japanese, open
to those who employ one gardener, the prizes were taken respectively
by Messrs. Jos. Hay, gardener to E. C. Thin, Esq., Oxton, and Mrs. Leete,
Oxton, Messrs. R. R. and J. H. Anderson taking honours for six blooms in
the class for those who do not employ a gardener. In the class for those
who have never won a prize at the show Mr. J. Cubbon, gardener to

G. E. Moses, Esq., Higher Bebington, had a good stand, and Mr. H.
Holford, gardener to C. Maciver, Esq., Heswall, coming in second.

The groups were much superior to those seen at Liverpool on the
previous Tuesday. The leading honours went to Mr. A. Price, gardener
to F. Jevons, Esq., Claughton ; Mr. A. Brown, gardener to Geo. Webster,
Esq., Upton, being placed second. For three vases of Chrysanthemums
arranged for effect Mr. J. Williams had no difficulty in securing the
award. Primulas and Cyclamen were good, as were also Mignonette
and table plants, the prizes going respectively to Mr. J. W. Totty,
gardener to W. Laird, Esq., Birkenhead ; Mr. W. Thomas, Mr. A. Price,
Rev. Canon Robin, and Mr. A. Brown. Bouquets did not call for special
comment, being much under the average in every instance as regards
arrangement and colouring.

Fruit and vegetables were grand, the black Grapes being in every
way superior to those at Liverpool. Awards of merit were granted to
Messrs. Dickson, Limited, Chester, who had a table containing a general
collection of fruit gathered from young trees in the nurseries, very
attractive. Also to Mr. Henderson, Oxton Hill, Birkenhead, for plants
and blooms ; and to Mr. Bradshaw for miscellaneous plants.

GLOUCESTER.— November 9th and 10th.

This annual Show was again held in the Corn Exchange, and was a
decided improvement on the past few years. Mr J. Aplin, gardener to
W. M. Baker, Esq., was the most successful exhibitor of Chrysanthe¬
mums, taking first honours for a well-arranged group of healthy well
bloomed plants, and also premier honours for forty-eight cut blooms,
thirty-six Japanese and twelve incurved, thus repeating his Bath suc¬
cesses of the previous day. The back row was composed as follows : —
W. Tricker, W. H. Lincoln, W. Seward, Gloriosum, Mdlle. M. Hoste, Viviand
Morel, Edwin Molyneux, Avalanche, Perfet Robert, Stanstead White,
W. G. Drover, W. Woodcock. Second row : Colonel W. B. Smith, Ex¬
celsior, Geo. Atkinson, Charles Davis, Etoile de Lyon, Sunflower, White
Louis Boehmer, Baronne de Frailly, Mrs. C. Wheeler, Amos Perry,
Gambetta, Mrs. A. H. Neve. Front row : Mrs. J. Laing, Comte de Ger-
miny, John Dyer, Ruth Cleveland, Fimbriatum Japona'se, Thunberg,
Stanstead Surprise, Mrs. W. Clarke, Eynsford White, Florence Davis,
B. D. Crane. Incurved : Lord Wolseley, Queen of England, Lady
Dorothy, Empress of India, Miss Haggas, Prince Alfred, Jeanne d’Arc,
Violet Tomlin, Beauty, Mr. Bunn, and Flora Macdonald. Mr.
Wheeler, Blackmore Park, was a fair second.

Fruit is always well shown at Gloucester, and this year the entries
were extra numerous. Mr. J. Watkins, Pomona Nurseries, Hereford,
practically swept the deck with Apples and Pears, taking first position
in the following classes. Collection of culinary Apples, seventy dishes ;
collection of desert Apples, sixty dishes ; collection of Pears, and in the
following single-dish classes : Ribston Pippin, Blenheim Orange, immense
fruits, and Dumelow’s Seedling. The English Fruit and Rose Company,
King’s Acre, Hereford, were very close to Mr. Watkins in collections of
dessert and culinary Apples, taking second honours in each case. The
same Company took first position for any variety of desert Apple with
Scarlet Nonpareil, first for Ashmead’s Kernel Improved, and first for the
best dish of culinary Apples with a grand dish named Byford Wonder.
The first staged by the above exhibitor was very fine indeed.

For the best collection of dessert and culinary Apples, twenty-four
dishes, prize given by Mr. J. Watkins, C. Lee Campbell, Esq. (gardener,
Mr. S. T. Wright), was a good first with a large, highly coloured fruit.
Mr. J. R. Bennett, Chaxhill House, Newnham, was second, who also
staged well. Mr. Watkins was an easy first for a collection of cider
Apples with fruit of a lovely colour. With white Grapes Mrs. Gambier
Parry, Highnam Court (gardener, Mr. Sowray), was first with good
bunches of Muscat of Alexandria, and a similar position for black with
beautiful Alicante. Mr. J. H. Jones, Churchdown, was second with
the same variety, badly coloured, while some well-finished Gros Guillame
and West’s St. Peter’s were left out, a decision which caused a good deal
of comment. The same applies to the first prize awarded in the Cox’s
Orange Apple class, in this case the dish taking premier honours was
not Cox’s Orange Pippin at all. Vegetables, grain, and roots (agri¬
cultural) were largely exhibited, and generally of high quality.—
Visitor.

LEATHERHEAD. — November 10th.

The ninth annual Chrysanthemum Show of the Leatherhead Horti¬
cultural Society was held in the Institute of that town on the above
date, when a bright and beautiful display of flowers was brought
together. The quality of the flowers and plants was as a rule high,
more especially in the classes devoted to the Japanese section. The
incurved blooms, too, were fine, and reflected high credit on the growers.
The arrangements of the Show, under the supervision of Mr. Pen¬
nington, the Secretary, and a Show Committee, were admirably
carried out.

For a group of Chrysanthemums to be arranged in a space not
exceeding 40 square feet, Mr. G. Mileham, gardener to A. T. Miller,
Esq., was a very good first. The plants were carrying clean, shapely
flowers, and were effectively arranged. Mr. Buck, gardener to W. Maples,
Esq., Ashtead, was second. The blooms in this exhibit were of high
quality, but the plants were not so well arranged as those of the first
group. The third prize was accorded to Mr. F. Hodgson, gardener to

H. White, Esq. Mr. Mileham was first for six distinct large-flowering
varieties in pots with good plants. Mr. Long, gardener to J. F. Chance,
E>q., was placed second. For three plants Mr. Mileham was again
first with finely flowered plants. The same exhibitor was also awarded

November 16, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

463

the first prize for a specimen Pompon, Mr. Mease, gardener to A. Tate,
Esq., being a good second, and Mr. Buck, gardener to W. Maples, Esq.,
third. Mr. Mileham won easily with three grandly flowered specimen
Pompons. In the class for twenty-four blooms, twelve Japanese and
twelve incurved, distinct, Mr. Mease was a splendid first, staging — back
row : Mrs. C. Harman Payne, Stanstead White, Bda Prasse, Col.
W. B. Smith, John Lambert, Queen of England, E, B. Hithnall, Jeanne
d’Arc. Middle row ; Robert Owen, G. C. Schwabe, Excelsior, Charles
Davis, Empress of India, John Doughty, Robinson King, Lord Alcester.
Front row : Viviand Morel, J. Hanborough Dibben, Mdlle. Th4r^se
Rey, Etoile de Lyon, Mrs. S. Coleman, Empress Eugenie, Violet Tomlin,
and Princess of Wales. The Japanese in this stand were heavy, superbly
formed flowers, and the incurved were of fine size and perfect finish.
Mr. Beckett, gardener to T. H. Bryant, Esq., Mickleham, was a good
second, his Japs being especially noteworthy. The best were Viviand
Morel, Jean Delaux, Marie Hoste, and Sunflower.

Mr. C. Beckett was first for twelve incurved, distinct, staging — back
row : Marquis du Bois, Hero of Stoke Newington, John Lambert.
Middle row : Lord Wolseley, Princess of Wales, Lord Alcester, Ami
Hoste. Front row : Jeanne d’Arc, Madame Darrier, Baron Hirsch, and
Miss M. A. Haggas, all the blooms being very fine. Mr. Mease was a
very close second. For twelve Japanese Mr. Mease was first with a
magnificent stand, consisting of — back row : Col. W. B. Smith, Etoile
de Lyon, Edwin Molyneux, Mrs. C. Harman Payne. Middle row :
H. Seward, V. P. Darquet, Mrs. Canned, J. Stan borough Dibben. Front
row : Mdlle. Th6rese Rey, Lord Brook, Mrs. Falconer Jameson, and
Viviand Morel. Mr. C. Beckett was second with a highly creditable
exhibit, amongst the best blooms in which were W. H. Lincoln, Marie
Hoste, and Sunflower. For six Japanese Mr. G. Rowes, gardener to
R. H. M. Praed, Esq., Mickleham Downs, who showed Etoile de Lyon,
Col. W. B. Smith, Violet Rose, Viviand Morel, Lizzie Cartledge, and
Condor, all in fine condition ; Mr. Mileham being second ; and Mr.
Peter, gardener to H. P. Sturgis, Esq., Leatherhead, third. For six
incurved Mr. Peter was first with Robt. Cannell, John Lambert, Princess
Teck, Lord Alcester, Camille Flammarion, and Miss M. A. Haggas.
Mr. Mileham was a good second. Mr. Peter was first for six reflexed
with charming blooms, Mr. Mease being second.

Mr. Higgs, gardener to J. B. Hankey, Esq., Fetcham Park, staged a
stand of Japanese and incurved not for competition. Both sections
were represented by some beautiful examples. Mr. Page, gardener to A.
Dixon, Esq., Cherkley Court, also showed a highly creditable stand. The
double Primulas with which Mr. Mease gained the premier award were
splendid examples of high culture, and proved conclusively to what
perfection these plants may be brought in the hands of an intelligent
man. Fruit and table plants were also largely shown, as also were
Cyclamens and Bouvardias. The amateurs’ classes were strongly
contested, many fine blooms and plants being staged.

HITCHIN. — November 10th.

The third annual autumn Exhibition of the Hitchin and District
Horticultural Society was held in the Corn Exchange, Hitchin, on Friday
last. As was general anticipated, the out blooms formed a prominent
feature of the Show, these being staged in excellent condition. Most of
the classes were well filled, and in some of them the competition was
very keen. Groups and trained plants, although not numerous, were
fairly good, and, as will be seen by the remarks that follow, fruit and
vegetables were well represented.

One of the principal classes in the cut bloom section was for eighteen
incurved. In this there were three entries, and the competition was
exceedingly close. The first prize went to Mr. W. Collins, gardener to
J. W. Carille, Esq., Ponsbourne Park, Hertford, who has a stand of neat
and well finished blooms. These comprized Lord Alcester (grand),
Robert Cannell, Mrs. Coleman, Alfred Salter, Queen of England
(magnificent), Violet Tomlin, White Empress (good), Madame Darrier
(fine), Mrs. Heale, Mrs. Robinson King, Alfred Salter, and Miss M. A.
Haggas. Mr. J. Turk, gardener to P. Bosanquet, Esq., Poufield, Little
Berkhampsted, was a good second. The best flowers in this stand were
Lord Wolseley, John Doughty, Alfred Salter, Mrs. Coleman, and Jeanne
d’Arc. Mr. E. Beckett, gardener to H. H. Gibbs, Esq., Aldenham
House, Elstree, was third with a stand of neat blooms.

Mr. Ernest Cotton, gardener to A. W. Lines, Esq., Hitchin, secured
the leading award for twelve incurved blooms, showing Violet Tomlin,
John Lambert, Jeanne d’Arc, Madame Darrier, Novelty, Miss M. A.
Haggas, Queen of England, Lord Wolseley, Barbara, Lord Alcester, John
Salter, and Empress Eugdnie. Mr. G. R. Allis, gardener to Major
Shuttleworth, Old Warden Park, Biggleswade, was second, this exhibitor’s
best blooms being Prince of Wales, Pink Venus, John Salter, and Lord
Wolseley. Mr. W. Collins gained the leading award in a class for six
incurved blooms of one variety, showing Madame Darrier. The second
prize went to Mr. E. Beckett for six fine blooms of Miss M. A. Haggas.
Mr. E. Cotton was third with Jeanne d’Arc.

The Japanese blooms were very good and formed quite a feature.
Mr. E. Cotton won with twelve blooms, showing fine examples of
Edwin Molyneux, A. H. Neve, W. Tricker, Etoile de Lyon, W. H.
Lincoln, Eynesford White, Fair Maid of Guernsey, W. W. Coles, Louis
Boehmer, Mrs. F. Jameson, Viviand Morel, and Sunflower. Mr. B.
Orsemau, gardener to G. Lucas, Esq., Hitchin, was second, W. H. Lincoln,
Sunflower, and Val d’Andorre being especially good in this stand. Mr.
J. R. Allis was third.

There were five exhibitors of stands of twenty-four Japanese blooms
and the fight for supremacy was very keen. Mr. E. Beckett, however.

gained the first prize with a stand of well finished blooms. The
varieties staged were Viviand Morel, J. P. Kendal, Violetta, Edwin
Molyneux, Golden Wedding (grand). Excelsior, Mrs. C. H. Payne, Lord
Brooke, Mrs. Watt’s Cutting, G, W. Childs, Mdlle. Thdrese Rey,
(splendid), Waban, Colonel W. B. Smith, Le Verseux, Mdlle. Marie
Hoste, Etoile de Lyon, Mrs. F. Jameson, Val d’Andorre, Puritan,
Beauty of Castlewood, W. H. Lincoln, Silver King, Charles Davis (fine),
and W. Tricker. Mr. W. Collins was a good second, the best flowers
in this stand being Edwin Molyneux, W. H. Lincoln, Pearl Beauty,
Mdlle. Marie Hoste, and Robert Owen, the last named being exceptionally
good. Mr. J. Turk was third with a stand of excellent blooms. Mr.
George Saunders, Gas House, Hitchin, secured first prizes for six
Japanese blooms distinct, and for three Japs, and the same number of
incurved blooms, also for six bunches of Chrysanthemums. Mr. W,
Collins won in the class for six blooms of one coloured Japanese variety,
staging fine blooms of Edwin Molyneux. Mr. E. Cotton was second
with well grown Viviand Morel, and Mr. J. Kipling, gardener to J. C.
Osgood, Esq., Knebworth House, Stevenage, third, with the same
variety. Mr. Collins repeated his success with six blooms of any white
variety, staging Mdlle. Marie Hoste. Mr. W. Millard, gardener to
W. Ramson, Esq., Fairfield, Hitchin, was second with six neat blooms
of Mrs. Alpheus Hardy. Mr. J. Kipling third. Mr. E. Beckett was
placed first with six Pompons, distinct, staging Cendrillon, Perles des
Beaut^s, Black Douglas, Scapion, William Westlake, and Eynesford Gem.
Mr. J. Turk was second, and Mr. E. Cotton third.

Trained plants were shown in good condition, if not very numerously.
For six plants Mr. W. Springham, gardener to J. H. Tukes, Esq., was
placed first. This exhibitor showed fine specimens of J. M. Pigny, Edwin
Molyneux, Madame Bertie Rendatler, Margot, Elaine, and Sarah Owen.
The plants were remarkably well flowered. Mr. E. Osman was second.
Mr. Springham also had the best three plants in pots, showing Madame
Baco, Cullingfordi, and W. H. Lincoln. Mr. W. Millard was second,
and Mr. A. Wilson, gardener to A. Ransom, Esq., Benslow, Hitchin, third.
Mr. E. Osman won with a group of Chrysanthemums, the plants being
well grown and admirably arranged. Mr. W. P. Clark, 10, Fishpond
Road, Hitchin, the Assistant Secretary of the Society, was second with a
group that reflected great credit on the grower. Mr. J. Upchurch,
gardener to F. Lucas, Esq., Hitchin, was third ; and Mr. R. Sharp fourth.

The table decorations open to ladies were very good, Mrs. R. Shillitoe,
Bancroft, Hitchin, was placed first, Mr. E. C. Foster, Bancroft, Hitchin,
Miss Tindall Lucas, Foxholes, Hitchin, third, and Miss Mary Ransome
fourth. Miss Tuke secured the leading award for a bouquet of autumn
foliage. Miss Ellen Pollard second, and Miss A. Foster third. The same
exhibitors secured prizes for bunches of Chrysanthemums.

Amongst the miscellaneous exhibits a group of Violets in pots and
bunches of flowers shown by Mr. C. E. Martin, gardener to Viscount
Hambledon, The Hoo, Welwyn, Herts. These were admirably grown and
loaded with bloom.

Fruit and vegetables were well shown. Mr. Beckett won with two
bunches of white Grapes, staging good clusters of Muscat of Alexandria.
Mr. R. Allis was second. Mr. A. Burgess, gardener to the Earl of
Harkwicke, Wimpole Hall, Royston, was first with two bunches of black
Grapes, staging well finished Alicante. Messrs. E. Beckett, G. R. Allis,
and W. Millard followed. Culinary Apples were best staged by Mr.
John Buckingham, Ickleford, Hitchin, who also won the first prize for
one dish of Pears. Mr. C. E. Martin gained the first prize for five dishes
of culinary Apples; and Mr. C. Welch, gardener to J. H. Tukes, Esq.,
Hitchin, was first with five dishes of dessert varieties. Mr. Burgess was
first with three dishes of^dessert Apples, Mr. Kipling following. Mr. J.
Brandon was first with six Cyclamens ; and Mr. E. Beckett followed.
Mr. Springham had the best six Primulas ; and Messrs. Brandon and W.
Millard were second and third respectively.

WINDSOR. — November 10th.

The second annual Exhibition of this Society was held in the
Albert Institute and showed a marked improvement on the initial
attempt last year, there being a great increase of exhibits.

The principal class was that for a group arranged in semicircular
form, quality and general effect to be the leading feature. No less
than six competed, making a good display. Mr. J. Edge, gardener to
Lord Harlech, Ascot, was an easy first with dwarf plants carrying
good blooms, not too much crowded. Mr. H. Wood, gardener to Lord
Boston, second, and Mr. F. H. Berry, gardener to Lady Mary Currie,
third. Mr. W. Skeet, gardener to Sir H. D. Gooch, Bart., Windsor,
was the only exhibitor of four specimens, but they were magnificent
examples. Amateurs staged some well grown plants, T. Wyborr,
Esq., Clifton House, Windsor, winning for twelve.

Cut blooms were the most important part of the Exhibition, so
numerously and well were they shown. The principal class in this
section was for thirty-six distinct varieties, half to be incurved and
the remainder Japanese, seven competed Mr. Thorne, gardener to Major
Joicev, Sunningdale Park, Ascot, won the premier award by the
superiority of his Japanese. The Japanese were Viviand Morel,
E. Molyneux, Etoile de Lyon, W. H. Woodcock, M. E. A. Carriere,
G. C. Schwabe, John Dyer (good). Excelsior, John Shrimpton (grand),
W. H. Lincoln, Mrs. E. W. Clarke, Mdlle. M. Hoste, Florence Davis,
Gloriosum, Mdlle. Th^rese Rey, M. Baco, G. W. Childs, and Col. B.
Smith. Incurved— Queen of England, Camille Flammarion, Golden
Queen of England, Lord Alcester, Brookleigh Gem, Empress of
India, Miss M. A. Haggas, Madame Darrier, Willie, Prince Alfred, Lord
Wolseley, Golden Empress, Princess Teck, Flora Macdonald, Lady

45i

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 16, 1893.

Dorothy, Princess Beatrice, Nil Desperandum, and Barbara. Mr. G.
Lane, gardener to Miss A. S. Kidge, Ascot, second, and Mr. H. Popple,
gardener to The Hon. Lady Cowell, Stepney, Ascot, third.

In the class for twenty-four incurved in not less than eighteen
varieties Mr. J. Williams, gardener to F. Ricardo, Esq., Ascot, won the
first prize with medium sized, neat blooms of leading varieties. Mr.
Sheet was second. Mr. G. Lane won for twelve incurved with well
finished examples ; especially good were Miss M. A. Haggas, Violet
Tomlin, Lucy Kendall, and Princess of Wales, Mr. G. Woodhouse,
gardener to Miss Belcher, Windsor, was second. For six incurved, any
one variety, Mr. Sheet with Mrs. Heales secured the premier award,
Mr. J. Williams was second with Jeanne d’Arc, Mr. Lane third with
Prince Alfred.

Japanese varieties were very good. For twenty-four in not less than
eighteen varieties Mr. A. Sturt, gardener to N. L. Cohen, Esq., Ascot,
secured the premier position with heavy, fresh blooms, admirably
arranged. Mr. J. Williams was second, Mr. Sheet third, both staging
well. For twelve varieties Mr. E. Johnson, gardener to A. Gilliat, Esq.,
Windsor, was an easy first with remarhably fine flowers ; Mr. G.
Lane second, and Mr. J. Cowie, gardener to B. L. Oliver, Esq., Ascot,
third.

Anemone varieties were really well shown by Messrs. Sturt and
Williams, the prizes going in the order here given. The same remarh
applies to the reflexed section, no less than six lots of twelve being staged.
Mr. Popple was first with blooms not extra large, but full and highly
coloured ; Mr. Thorne second, and Mr. Woodhouse third.

EXETER. — November 10th.

The Devon and Exeter Horticultural Society’s Chrysanthemum
Show was held in the Victoria Hall, of the above named city, on Friday
last, and in every way proved a decided success. The exhibits were so
numerous that an extra room had to be requisitioned to accommodate
much of the fruit and some trade displays. Groups of Chrysanthemums,
arranged with Palms and other foliage plants, had a most pleasing
effect, and the cut blooms, especially of Japanese, were remarkably good,
and the competition in most instances very keen. The Show was the
best the Society has yet held, and, favoured by beautiful weather, was
largely patronised.

In the cut bloom section the leading class was that for thirty-six
Japanese ; six good stands were staged in competition, a silver cup,
value 5 guineas, being offered as the first prize. The collections staged
by Mr. G. Foster, gardener to H. Hammond Spencer, Esq., Torquay,
and Mr. Hawkins, gardener to W. H. Fowler, Esq., Taunton, were very
close in merit. The blooms of the latter, although good, lacked fresh¬
ness, and had to take second place. The first prize stand consisted of
the following, reading from left to right : — Back row : Etoile de Lyon,
Golden Wedding, Viviand Morel, Sunflower, Dorothea Shea, Princess
May, Silver King, W. H. Lincoln, Mrs. F. Jameson, Boule d’Or, Mrs.
C. H. Wheeler, Mrs. E. D. Adams. Middle row: Col. W. B. Smith,

E. Molyneux, Robt. Owen (good), Alberic Lunden, Stanstead White,
Vice-President Audiguier, Wm. Lane, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Lizzie
Cartledge, Florence Davis, Ruth Cleveland, Gloire du Rocher. Front
row : G. C. Schwabe, Beauty of Exmouth, Excelsior, Mr. Broomhead,
W. K. Woodcock, Charles Blick, Violet Rose, Mrs. L. Allen, Mr. A. H.
Neve, Puritan, J. Stanborough Dibben, and Madame Baco. Mr. Fowler
had some magnificent blooms in his second prize stand. Third, Mr.
J. Lloyd, gardener to Vincent Stuckey, Esq. With eighteen varieties,
distinct, the latter exhibitor was placed first, having good blooms ; Mr.
Foster was second ; and Mr. Thomas, gardener to Wilfred Marshall,
Esq., Taunton, third.

For twelve Japanese eight competitors staged, the best coming from
Mr. W. H . Veale, gardener to the Rev. A. H. Sims. They comprised
Viviand Morel, E. Molyneux, W. H. Lincoln, Mrs. H. Payne, Madame
Baco, Sarah Owen, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Lord Brooke (good), W. Tricker,
Miss A.Hartzhorn, Gloire du Rocher, and Etoile de Lyon. Second, Mr.

F. Dark, gardener to T. S. Philpot, Esq. In his stand was a magnificent
bloom of Robert Owen, which was unanimously selected as the best Jap
bloom in the Show. Mr. Mairs, gardener to Sir John Shelley, was
third. Three classes were devoted to sixes of Japanese, one variety,
white, yellow, and any other variety, a grand lot of flowers being staged.
With white Mr. Fowler was first with Beauty of Exmouth ; second, Mr.
Veale with Florence Davis, larger flowers, but scarcely at their best. Six
yellow. — First, Mr. Veale with extra fine W. H. Lincoln. Second, Mr,
Foster with Golden Wedding, also good. For six of any other colour,
Mr. Fowler came first with finely coloured E. Molyneux. Second, Mr.
Stiles, gardener to Miss Fripp, Teignmouth, with monstrous blooms of
Viviand Morel, but rather pale.

The incurved blooms were not quite so numerous as the above. For
twenty-four, distinct, Mr. Foster gained another first, having — back row:
Alfred Salter, Golden Empress, J. Lambert, Miss Belle Wilson, Queen of
England, Violet Tomlin,‘Lord Alcester, Middle row: Jardin des Plantes,
Madame Darrier, Empress of India, Hero of Stoke Newington, Mrs.
Robinson King, Lord Wolseley, Princess of Wales, Mrs. Mitchell. Front
row : Camille Flammarion, Empress Eugenie, Lady Hardinge, Jeanne
d’Arc, Prince Alfred, Miss Haggas, Baron Beust, and Princess Alice.
Second, Mr. Lloyd. The competition was stronger in the class for
twelve blooms. Mr. F. Prothero, gardener to W. McKenzie Bradley,
Esq., coming in first. Second, Mr. Heath, gardener to Sir W. Walrond,
in whose stand was a fine Jeanne d’Arc. Third, Mr. Veale, The best
incurved bloom in the Show was a large and finely built Baron Hirsch
in Mr. Stiles’ third prize stand_ of twenty-four. The reflexed and

Pompons were not strongly represented, and call for no special com
ment. Two exceedingly pretty stands of six varieties of single were shown
in bunches of three. First, Mr. Prothero, with Souvenir de Londres,
Admiral Symonds, Calliope, Mrs. Killock, Tisiphone, and Snowflake.
Second, Mr. Emmett.

At Exeter the schedule stipulates that a Palm shall be used for the
centre of each group (the groups are all circular), and Ferns may be used
to finish off the base, which has a good effect. A class is also provided in
which Chrysanthemums and foliage plants intermixed shall form the
groups. Four competitors entered in each class, Mr. Rowland, gardener
to W. Brock, Esq., Exeter, winning easily in each instance. Second,
Mr. Rogers, gardener to G. Randall Johnson, Esq. Third, Mr. Higginson,
gardener to Mark Farrant, Esq, Mr. Rowlands’ other group was a very
elegant arrangement. Second, Mr, A. Williams, gardener to W. C.
Sim, Esq. Mr. Rowland was also first for a miscellaneous group of
plants, Chrysanthemums excluded ; second, Mr. Williams.

There was a wonderful display of Apples and Pears, the colour of the
former being remarkably bright. Forty classes were provided for these,
the competitors in most instances being numerous. The principal
prizetakers were the gardeners (whose names we failed to obtain) to
the following gentlemen — Sir J. Amory, Sir'J. D. Ferguson Davie, Lord
Poltimore, Sir J. Copp, Major Tracey, Sir T. Acland, Sir W. Walrond,
W. C. Sim, Esq., and Mr. Whitehead.

Miscellaneous exhibits were largely contributed by Messrs. Robt.
Veitch & Son, Exeter ; the Exeter Nursery Co., Exeter ; Mr. Jarman,
Chard ; Mr. Godfrey, Exmouth, ten stands of Chrysanthemum blooms ;
and Mr. G. C. Sclater, Heavitree Nursery, Exeter.

TADCASTER PAXTON SOCIETY.— November 10th.

On Friday last the above Society held its second annual Chrysanthe¬
mum Show, which was opened by H, H. Riley-Smith, Esq., in the Town
Hall, and was largely attended. The Show was a decided improvement
on last year, especially in the cottagers’ classes, where some fine col¬
lections of vegetables were staged. The entries in the gardeners’ class
were very poor. Three groups were arranged, not for competition, by
T. Fielden, Esq, Grimston Park ; H. Bromet, Esq., Tadcaster, and Miss
Bethell, Newton Kyme. The Chrysanthemums in the amateurs’ classes
were highly creditable. An award of merit was given to Mr. Grix,
gardener to J. M. Dawson, Esq., Wighill, for a handsome “sport”
from Mrs. Shipman, also to Mr. William Green of Garforth Nurseries,
near Leeds, for a fine display of home grown fruit.

BRADFORD AND DISTRICT.— November 10th and 11th.

The seventh annual Exhibition of Chrysanthemums under the
auspices of the above Society was held in the Technical College, Brad¬
ford. The entries numbered nearly 300, against about 200 last year.

A splendid group (not for competition) of very choice Orchids was
arranged in front of the orchestra by Messrs. Charlesworth, Shuttle-
worth, & Co., of Heaton, which was one of the main features of the
Exhibition, and a certificate of merit was awarded. Mr. Bell, gardener
to J. H. Rand, Esq., Baildon, exhibited a small but very neat group of
Palms and other plants, for which a certificate was also awarded.

In the cut flower department, open class for twenty-four Japanese
in not less than eighteen varieties, Mr. C. J. Ormerod was placed first,
the Earl of Harrington second, and Mr. John Edwards third. For
twenty-four incurved blooms, in not less than eighteen varieties, Mrs.
Cope, Dove Park, Woolton, was first, the Earl of Harrington second
and Mr. Adolph Jacobs, Cragg Royd, Rawdon, third.

In the amateur classes Mr. Ben Baxter, Lidget Green, Great Horton,
took nine first prizes, five second prizes, and one third prize, as well as a
silver medal. Mr. Jesse Hall, Shipley, and Mr. John Whittingham,
Shipley, also secured many prizes. In the open and local classes, Mr.
T. Newbould, gardener to Adolph Jacobs, Esq., Cragg Royd, Rawdon,
was very successful, taking six firsts, three seconds, and one third prizes.
In the local classes Messrs. H. Clark & Son, Rodley, did very well,
taking three firsts, four seconds, and two third prizes. Mr. Lindsay,
Stockfield-on-Tyne, and Mr. Jellicoe, Liverpool, officiated as Judges.

The silver cup, valued £5 5s., given by the Mayor of Bradford for
the best group of Chrysanthemums, was won by Mr. Sam Dean, Great
Horton.

PONTEFRACT. — November 10th and 11th.

The seventh annual Show was held in the Town Hall, and although
the exhibits were of good quality generally the classes were not so well
filled as in previous years. Cut flowers were well shown, the principal
class being for twenty-four blooms, twelve incurved and twelve Japanese,
the first place being, secured by Mr. Ketchell, gardener to C. H.
Simpson, Esq., Moor Top, Ackworth. His incurved were rather small
but of high finish ; they included Jeanne d’Arc (2), Mons. Bahuant (2),
Lord Wolseley, Camille Flammarion, Mr. Bunn, Madame Darrier, and
Hero of Stoke Newington (premier bloom). The Japanese were very
fine, particularly Eva Knowles (new, and for which a first-class certifi¬
cate was awarded), Viviand Morel, Colonel W. B. Smith, Gloire du
Rocher, G. C. Schwabe, W. Tricker, Alberic Lunden, and E. Molyneux.
Mr. Groom, gardener to T. Tew, Esq., Carlton Grange, was a good
second. His Japanese were better than in the winning stand, but the
incurved were rougher. lie had grand blooms of J. Shrimpton,
W. Seward, W. Tricker, and G. C. Schwabe. Mr. Dunn, gardener to
Mrs. D. L. Jones, Elmsall Lodge, Pontefract, was third. The premier
Japanese bloom was a splendid Viviand Morel, in Mr. Findlay’s stand.

For twelve incurved blooms Mr. Ketchell was again first for neat

November 16, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

455

flowers similar to his other stand. Second, Mr. Groom. Third, Mr.
Pearson, Knottingley. For twelve Japanese Mr. Groom was first with
fine hlooms. Second, Mr, Ketchell ; and third, Mr, Findley, gardener
to E. H. Jones, Esq., Badsworth Hall, Pontefract,

The only group which was highly creditable was from Mr. Bell,
gardener to Jno, Rhodes, Esq., Snydale Hall, Pontefract, who was given
first place. Trained plants were not well represented, but table plants
and Primulas were fine.

Fruit was well shown, notably Apples and Pears, also excellent Grapes,
the principal winners being Messrs, Ketchell, Findley, Hirst, and Shaw.
Vegetables made a fine display both in the local and cottagers’ classes.
Nurserymen’s classes were represented by two fine tables from Mr.
J. Sunley, Monk Fryston Nursery, and Mr. Lamprey of Ackworth.

LEICESTER. — November 10th and 11th.

The seventh annual Show of the Leicester and Midland Chrys¬
anthemum Society was held in the Floral Hall, Leicester, on the above
dates. The cut flowers were very good indeed.

In the class for eighteen incurves, in not less than fifteen varieties,
Mr. J. Underwood, gardener to R. Walker, Esq., was well first with
Empress of India, Alfred Salter, J. Lambert, Mons. R. Bahuant, Lord
Alcester, Queen of England, Lord Wolseley (2), Miss Haggas, Princess
of Wales, Madame Barrier, Prince Alfred, Alfred Lyne, F. McDonald,
Refulgens, Mrs. Coleman, Jeanne d’Arc, and Madame Barrier, The
same exhibitor was also first for eighteen Japanese, distinct, with,
amongst others, very fine blooms of Condor, W. W. Coles, Mrs. W. E.
Clarke, Florence Davis, Mrs. F. Jameson, and Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Mr,
Underwood was likewise first in each of the classes for twelve incurved
and twelve Japanese, distinct, W. Bolton, gardener to — Billson, Esq.,
was second for eighteen incurves, for eighteen Japanese, and for twelve
Japanese. For twelve incurved the second prize was taken by
H. Dunkley, gardener to S. Symington, Esq,, Market Harborough, For
six Japanese, of one variety, Mr. Underwood was first with superb
Sunflowers, Mr. H, Rogers coming very close to him with six very fine
Viviand Morels.

Four groups of Chrysanthemums and foliage plants were shown.
Mr. H. Rogers, Gipsy Lane Nurseries, Leicester, was first with a charm¬
ing arrangement. Mr. J. Smith, Vicarage Lane Nurseries, Belgrave,
also had a very pleasing group, not for competition.

Fruit was extensively shown, and in splendid condition. Mr. G.
Boyes, florist and fruiterer, filled two large tables with collections of
about seventy varieties Leicestershire grown Apples. The other ex¬
hibitors of collections of very fine home grown fruit were Mrs. G. H.
Ellis, Knighton Hayes, and Jas. Ellis, Esq., The Gynsils, Leicester.

The classes for bouquets of dried flowers brought a remarkable dis¬
play, which proved one of the most attractive features of the Show.
Some beautiful wreaths were also shown, not for competition, by Mr. H.
Rogers and Mr. W. K. Woodcock, Barkley Road Nurseries. Messrs,
T. Harrison & Sons, the Midland Seed Warehouses, were also well
represented.

GODALMING. — November 10th and 11th.

The tenth Exhibition of the Godaiming and District Chrysanthe¬
mum Society was held in the Public Hall on the 10th and 11th inst.
and must be classed as one of the best the Society has yet held. Taken
as a whole the exhibits were of a high order, especially the large trained
specimens, Mr. H. Paddon carrying all before him in this class.

In the class for a group quality and efiect being the leading feature,
Mr. Tyler, gardener to — Hitchings, Esq., Monk’s Hatch, won with a
high class exhibit admirably arranged. Mr. Neal, gardener to H. Wyatt,
Shackleford House, was a close second. Mr. King, gardener to Grahame
Cooper, Esq., was third with very dwarf plants, good quality, but
arranged somewhat too flat for effect. For three plants not disbudded
the prize went to Mr. F. Jordan, gardener to Birket Foster, Esq., The Hill,
Witley.

For eighteen cut blooms (incurved) Mr. Paddon, gardener to
— Ricardo, Esq., Bramley, was again to the front. For twelve
incurved the awards were : — First, Mr. Neal ; second, Mr. Clarke ;
third, Mr. R. Jordan. Mr. Baker, gardener to W. Webb, Esq., was a
good first for eighteen Japanese, closely followed by Mr. Paddon and
Mr. Clarke. Mr. Neal had a very fine board of the Bundle family,
Mr. Jordan being second, and Mr. Jordan third.

In the class for six table plants Mr. F. Jordan was first with clean
handsome specimens, Mr. Jordan second, Mr. Lampard third. For six
distinct dishes of fruit Mr. R. Jordan led the way ; for two bunches of
white Grapes, Mr. Baker was first with well finished Muscat of
Alexandra, Mr. R. Jordan being second with the same variety. In the
other fruit classes Messrs. Paddon, Jordon, Tyler, Burfoot, Clarke, and
Sutton secured the prizes.

In the class for miscellaneous groups a good competition resulted in
Mr. Mitchell, of the Mead Row Nurseries, Godaiming, being first with
a very fine arrangement. Mr. Burfoot was a good second, and Mr.
Butler was third. Table decorations and cottagers’ exhibits were good.

IPSWICH. — November 14th and 15th.

The growing popularity of the autumn queen in East Anglia was
clearly evinced on the occasion of the annual autumn Show, which
opened on Tuesday in the Public Hall. The varieties were more
numerous than ever, while the excellent quality displayed was sufficient
evidence the eastern men know how to grow Chrysanthemums as well as
Roses. The halls were filled to overflowing, and the vegetable exhibits

had to be accommodated in the corridors. The Executive Committee
are to be congratulated on the excellent arrangement of the Hall. The
groups were numerous and meritorious, Mr. W. Pooley, gardener to
G. R. Turner, Esq., gaining the first position with well grown plants.
Mr. G. Howlett, gardener to Dr. Casley, was second ; and Mr. Rolfe,
gardener to P. S. Bruff, Esq., third. The groups of miscellaneous plants
arranged for effect added considerably to the beauty of the Show. Mr.
Chenery, gardener to Dr. Adams, had a very light arrangement, the
Poinsettias, Crotons, and Ericas being the chief feature. Mr. G. Gilbert,
nurseryman, was second with a bright display. Third, Mr. A. Soman,
gardener to General Hessey, Melton.

The competition in the class for twenty-four Japs, distinct, was very
keenly contested. Finally Mr. A. Bishop, gardener to R. Burrel, Esq.,
Westley House, was placed first ; his best flowers were Viviand Morel,
W. H. Lincoln, Lilian B. Bird, Sunflower, and Volunteer. Second
honours were awarded to Messrs. Saltmarsh & Son, Chelmsford. Third,
Mr. R. C. Notcutt, Broughton Road Nursery. In the class for twelve
Japs Messrs. Notcutt, Saltmarsh, and Bishop divided the honours in the
order named. In the class for twelve incurves Messrs. Saltmarsh were
first with good even flowers of Violet Tomlin, Barbara, Golden Empress,
Lady Dorothy, and Hero of Stoke Newington. Mr. Notcutt was a good
second, showing good heavy flowers of Lord Wolseley, Prince Alfred,
and Empress Eugbnie.

The leading prize offered consisted of a silver cup, value £5 5s., for
eighteen Japs and a like number of incurves. The contest was a keen
one, and gave the Judges some difficulty to decide ; ultimately it was
secured by Mr. J. C. Sheddick, gardener to Hon. A. C. Fellows, M.P.
The stand was strongest in incurves. His flowers were — Back row :
Viviand Morel (2), Florence Davis, E. Molyneux, Mdlle. Marie Hoste,
Edwin Molyneux. Middle row : Gloriosum, G. C. Schwabe, Etoile de
Lyon, Gloire de Rocher, J. S. Dibben, and W. K. Woodcock. Front
row: Mrs. E. W. Clarke, Avalanche, W. H. Lincoln, A. H. Neve, G. C.
Schwabe, and Florence Davis. Incurves — Back row : Lord Alcester
(grand), Queen of England, Lord Wolseley (2), Jeanne d’Arc, Alfred
Salter. Second row: Princess Teck, Madame Barrier, Jeanne d’Arc,
Novelty, Mrs. Robinson King (guod), and Empress Bugbnie. Front
row : Miss Haggas, Princess Teck, Madame Barrier, Mrs. Heale, Princess
of Wales, and Lady Dorothy. The Rev. H. Berners was second
(gardener, Mr. Jordan) with fine Japanese, but weak in the other
section. Stanstead White, Etoile de Lyon, Boule d’Or, E. Molyneux,
and Lord Brooke were the most notable flowers. Mr. G. Rogers,
gardener to Lord Rendlesham, was third, showing in good form Viviand
Morel, W. H. Lincoln, Colonel Smith, G. C. Schwabe, and Lord Brooke,

Six blooms of Japanese, one variety, made a fine display, Messrs.
Saltmarsh proving invincible with Viviand Morel, Mr. Light following
with E. Molyneux, while Mr. Bishop staged the third winner in Lilian
B. Bird. The class for six incurved, one variety, contained Lord Alcester
from Rev. Berners, Mrs. Dixon from Mr. Bishop, third Empress of India
from Messrs. Saltmarsh.

The display of fruit was excellent, Mr. G. Rogers securing first
honours for six dishes ; second, Mr. Andrews, gardener to Hon. W.
Lowther ; third, Mr. Messenger, gardener to C. H. Berners, Esq. For
three bunches of Alicante, Mr. Thos. King was placed first, followed by
Messrs. Andrews and Messenger. Other black Grapes, Mr. Messenger
was first with Gros Colman, Mr. Jordan with Gros Maroc, and Mr.
Andrews with Mrs. Pince. The classes for Apples and Pears formed
quite an exhibition in themselves, but space forbids entering their
good qualities here. The vegetables were also very numerous and
meritorious.

TWICKENHAM.— Nov. 14th AND 15th.

The annual autumn Show of the Twickenham Horticultural Society
was held in the Town Hall on the above dates. The display was a
handsome one, somewhat marred, however, hy a thick fog which hung
persistently over the town. Groups were very fine indeed, but the
Japanese section in the cut hlooms was by far the best represented.
Incurved flowers here, as elsewhere, lacked substance and finish. Fruit was
finely staged, as also were vegetables. Orchids, Palms, and other plants.
The greatest credit is due to Mr. J. J. G. Pugh, Hon. Secretary, and the
Show Committee, for the excellent manner in which all arrangements
were carried out.

In the class for a group arranged in a space not exceeding 50 square
feet, Mr. J. Parsons, gardener to T. Twining, Esq., was placed first for
an admirable collection. Both flowers and plants were splendid.
Mr. Rick wood, gardener to Lady Freake, was a good second, lacking
taste in arrangement ; Mr. J. Simmons, gardener to W. Cunard, Esq.,
third ; and Mr. Weaton, gardener to J. B. Hilditch, Esq., being third.
In the class for six untrained plants, distinct, open to amateurs only,
Mr. J. T. Attwood was a good first, Mr. J. Brill being second, and Mr.
J. T. Hoar third. For twelve blooms in not less than three varieties,
Mr. J. Brill was first, Mr. J. T. Hoar second, and Mr. J. H. Gilbert third.
In the class for twenty-four blooms, twelve incurved and the remainder
Japanese, distinct, Mr. E. Coombes, gardener to W. Furze, Esq., was
first. Amongst the best of those staged were Sunflower, G. C. Schwabe,
Viviand Morel, Colonel W. B. Smith, Miss M. A. Haggas, Violet Tomlin,
Robert Cannell, and Empress Eugbnie. The second prize went to Mr.
Woodgate, gardener to Lady Wolverton, with a superb exhibit ; and the
third to Mr. Waite, gardener to Hon. W. P. Talbot. There were five
competitors for twelve incurved, distinct. Mr. E. Coombs was an ex¬
cellent first, staging Emily Dale, Violet Tomlin, Princess Teck, and
others in grand form. Mr. Woodgate was a very close second, and Mr.

456

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ November 16, 1893.

Waite third. The prizes in the class for twelve distinct Japanese were
very keenly contested, Mr. Coombs again taking the premier position.
Amongst the best of his flowers were Viviand Morel, William Seward,
G. C. Schwabe, and W. H. Lincoln. Mr J. Osman was a good second,
and Mr. J. Wilkins, gardener to Mrs. Pearson, third.

Mr. Waite was first in the class for twelve Anemone varieties with a
fine stand. The best were Lady Margaret Jeanne Mantz, Fleur de Marie,
and J. Thorp, jun. Mr. Woodgate, was accorded the second prize.
Mr. Woodgate was a good first for twelve bunches ot Pompons, staging
highly creditable examples of Bob, Rosinante, Mrs. Bateman, and Mdlle.
Elise Dordan amongst others. For six Japanese, one variety, Mr. T.
Osman was first with magnificent examples of Sunflower. Mr. Waite
second with Viviand Morel, and Mr. Woodgate third with Etoile de
Lyon. In the class for six incurved, one variety, Mr. Waite was first
with superb examples of Queen of England, Mr. Coombs second with
John Salter, and Mr. T. Osman third with Jeanne d’Arc. In the class for
six bunches of singles, in not less than three varieties, Mr. J. Parsons
was a good first, Mr. J. Wilkins being second, and BIr. G. Woodgate
third. For twelve incurved, distinct, Mr. W. Ludbrook was first, Mr.
J. Parsons second, and Mr. J. Simmons third. In the class for twelve
Japanese varieties, distinct, Mr. J. Simmons was a good first, Mr. W. Lud¬
brook second, and Mr. J. E. Burton, gardener to Sir E, J. D. Paul, third.
Mr. H. G. Fordham, nurseryman, Twickenham, staged a charming group
of plants, not for competition.

CROYDON.— November 14th and 15th.

A VERY fine show was held in the Public Hall on the above dates.
The groups, trained plants, and the cut blooms were arranged in the
large hall, and the fruit and vegetables in the smaller one.

In the open class for eighteen Japanese and eighteen incurved,
distinct varieties, Mr. Shoesmith, gardener to M. Hodgson, Esq., Shirley,
was first with grand blooms. Back row : Colonel W. B. Smith, Mrs,
E. D. Adams, Etoile de Lyon, Stanstead White, Viviand Morel, B. Moly-
neux, John Lambert, Empress of India (the finest incurved in the Show),
Alfred Salter, Golden Empress, Queen of England, and Jeanne d’Arc.
Second row ; Mrs. Harman Payne, Coronet, Florence Davis, C. Shrimp-
ton, Mdlle. Blarie Hoste, Waban, Miss Haggas, Violet Tomlin, Princess
of Wales, Mrs. Coleman, Lord Wolseley, and Mrs. Heale. Front row :
Mrs. F. Jameson, Madame Baco, Charles Blick, Lord Brooke, Madame
J. Laing, Sunflower, Lady Dorothy, Empress Eugenie, Madame Darrier,
Blons. Davis, Princess Teck, and J. Salter. BIr. Wyatt, gardener to
James Perry, Esq., Caterham, was a good second. Mr. H. Alderman,
gardener to G. Hatfield, Esq., Morden, third. In this stand was the
best Japanese bloom, a grand one of Viviand Morel.

Mr. Shoesmith was first for six Japanese, one variety, showing Viviand
Morel ; Mr. Wyatt second. In the corresponding class for incurved the
same exhibitors changed positions, Mr. Wyatt being first with Queen of
England. Mr. Shoesmith was defeated by T. Wickham Jones, Esq.,
South Norwood. In the class for eighteen Japanese Mr. J. Knapp,
gardener to F. W. Anderson, Esq., obtained first for twelve bunches of
Pompons.

There were several good groups of Chrysanthemums edged with
foliage plants. BIr. Carr, gardener to Mrs. Clarke, Croydon Lodge, was
awarded first ; his blooms were of fine quality, but the arrangement was
scarcely so good as BIr. Padley’s, Bramley Hill Nursery, who came in
second, Mr. Carr was also first for six trained plants, large flowering,
also for six trained Pompons. Mr. Cooper, Sydenham Road Nursery, was
second in both classes.

In the local classes Messrs. D. Love, C. Perret, and F. J. Strover were
awarded the prizes for groups. BIr. H. Shoesmith was first for twelve
Japanese, also for the same number of incurved varieties. Mr. Wickham
Jones was awarded first for six Japanese, distinct, also six of one
variety, showing Viviand Morel in fine style. Mr. Carr had the best
six large flowering Anemones, and Mr. J. Knapp the best Pompon
Anemones. Amateurs and cottagers exhibited well in the classes
provided for them.

In the special class for eighteen Japanese, distinct, Mr. Shoesmith
was first, and also for the best Japanese bloom with foliage as grown,
showing a grand E, Molyneux, and for incurved with Empress of India.
Fruit, vegetables, and table plants were well shown.

Among the exhibits not for competition was a fine collection of
Apples from Messrs. G. Bunyard & Co., Maidstone, all highly coloured.
Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Crawley, had Apples and Pears. Messrs.
Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, exhibited a collection of Apples, also a group
of Chrysanthemums and miscellaneous plants. BIr. W. Wells, Earls-
wood, had several stands of cut blooms ; and the Secretary, Mr, W. B.
Beckett, contributed a creditable stand of blooms.

PLYBIOUTH. — November 14th and 15th.

The second autumn Exhibition held by the BVest of England Chrys¬
anthemum Society took place in the Guildhall, and was a decided
advance upon that of last year — not only in the quality of the cut
blooms, but in the classes for groups. The Executive deserve every
praise for the spirited policy adopted in offering such handsome prizes.
BIr. C. Wilson and BIr. Damerell managed the Exhibition in a com¬
mendable manner.

The principal class was that for forty-eight in not less than thirty-six
varieties, half to be incurved and the remainder Japanese. Prizes of
£15, £10, £5, £2, and £1 were offered. There were four competitors so
close in point of merit that considerable time was spent by the Judges
in making their awards. The honours eventually fell to Mr. N.

Molyneux, gardener to J. C. Gamier, Esq., Rooksbury Park, Fareham,
and Messrs. W. k, G. Drover, Fareham. Mr. Molyneux beat his strong
opponents by a very few points in both sections. The incurved were
not large, but very solid and perfectly finished. The Japanese were
particularly bright and well staged. The names were — Incurved : Lord
Alcester (2), Queen of England (2), Golden Queen of England (2),
Empress India (2), Princess Teck (2), Robert Cannell, Beauty (2),
Mrs. R. King, C. B. Whitnail, Miss BI. A. Haggas, Nonpareil, Lord
Eversley, Hero of Stoke Newington, Mrs. Mitchell, W. P. Louis
Blancard, Barbara, Lady Dorothy and Princess of Wales. Japanese :
Etoile de Lyon (2), Princess May (2), Vice-President Calvat (2), Charles
Davis (2), Viviand Morel, G. C. Schwabe (2), Mrs. F. A. Spaulding,
Florence Davis, Blrs. C. Wheeler, Lord Brooke, C. Shrimpton, Duchess
of York, Mdlle. Bl. Hoste (2), P C. Kingston, Vice-President Audiguier,
Pelican, Lizzie Cartledge and Lilian Bird. The best blooms in
BIr. Drover’s stand were Lord Alcester, Emily Dale, Lord Dorothy
(grand), Mrs. N. Davis, J. Doughty, Golden Emperor and Nil
Desperandum in the incurved. Japanese Charles Davis, Mdl e.
Thbrbse Day, Mrs. E. D. Adams, and Lord Brooke. Mr. Foster, gardener
to H. H. Spencer, Esq., Teignmouth, third, with perhaps some of the
finest Japanese blooms in the Show, the incurved somewhat stale.
Mr, Stiles, gardener to Miss Fripp, Teignmouth, fourth.

In the class for twenty-four incurved, Messrs. Drover turned the
tables on Mr. N. Molyneux, winning by the small margin of one point.
The blooms in both stands were not large, but remarkable for high finish
and freshness. The best blooms in the winning stand were Golden
Empress, Lord Alcester, Emily Dale, Lady Dorothy, Princess Teck, Mrs.
Coleman, Lord Wolseley, and Alfred Salter. Hero of Stoke Newington
and Beauty were especially noteworthy in the second prize stand.

In the class for twenty-four Japanese Mr. Stiles was distinctly ahead
of Mr. Foster with full heavy blooms, capitally staged, of Viviand Morel,
Stanstead White, Mrs. F. A. Spaulding, M. Bernard, M, Baco, Violet
Rose, Beauty of Castlewood, and C. Shrimpton. For twelve Japanese
Mr. N. Molyneux won with full blooms ; Princess May and Mdlle. M.
Hoste were especially good. Mr. Veale, gardener to the Rev. A. H.
Simms, Newton Abbott, second. Florence Davis won for Mr. Veale the
premier award in the class for six white, any one variety, Messrs. Drover
second. For six Japanese, any one variety, Mr. Stiles won with Viviand
Morel in faultless style ; Etoile de Lyon second, belonging to Mr. Foster.
For six Japanese, any two varieties, Mr. N. Molyneux won with Mdlle.
M. Hoste and Etoile de Lyon ; Messrs. Drover second, Mr. Stiles third.
Anemone and reflexed varieties were fairly well shown.

Groups of Chrysanthemums were a distinct feature of the Show,
no less than nine competing; The best came from Mr. T. F. Ussher,
Connaught Avenue, Plymouth, an excellent display. Admiral Parker,
Plymouth, a good second. His gardener also won the premier award
for six specimens with fairly good plants. For a group of miscellaneous
plants Mr. Amos Groombridge, Tothill Nurseries, Plymouth, was first ;
Mr. C. Watts second. Mr. Godfrey, Exmouth, staged new Chrys¬
anthemums not for competition, and so did Messrs. Smaile, Torquay.

DEVIZES. — November 7th.

A BAZAAR was held in conjunction with the Chrysanthemum Show
and a very pretty and effective display resulted. What also proves
most satisfactory is the fact that a very handsome balance invariably
accrues, this being distributed in the way of charity to the poor during
the ensuing winter. Mr. T. King has the sole management of the
Chrysanthemum Show proper, and arrangements are very good.

Cut blooms are the great feature of the display, valuable prizes
attracting noted growers from various parts of the country. For
twenty-four incurved varieties, in not less than eighteen varieties, the
premier award went to Mr. J. Inglefield, gardener to Sir J. Kelk, who
had Emily Dale (3), Lord Wolseley, Lord Alcester, Golden Empress
(3), Queen of England, Empress of India (2), John Doughty,
Princess of Wales, Lucy Kendall, Prince Alfred, Jeanne d’Arc, Miss
Haggas, Madame Darrier, Mrs. N. Davis, Nil Desperandum, Empress
Eugbnie, Blrs. Heale and Brookleigh Gem, all in excellent condition.
Messrs. BVard, G. Drover, Fareham, were a close second, being only
about four points behind. Mr. C. J. Salter, gardener to T. B. Hay¬
wood, Esq., Reigate, was a creditable third, four others also competing.
The last named took the lead with twelve incurved varieties, staging
fairly good blooms of John Lambert, Empress of India, John Salter,
Lord Alcester, Violet Tomlin, Mrs. Heale, Jardin des Plantes, Prince
Alfred, Mrs. Coleman, Lord “Wolseley, Golden Eagle, and Miss Haggas.
Mr. W. Robinson, gardener to Lord Justice Lopes, Hey wood Park,
Westbury, was a close second, the third prize going to the veteran Mr.
J. Baylis, Winterbourne. In another class for incurved varieties to be
shown with 4 inches of clear stem and Chrysanthemum foliage
allowed, BIr. Robinson was well first.

For twelve Japanese varieties the first prize was a silver cup, value
5 guineas, this being presented by the Mayor of Devizes, and was well
won by Mr. C. J. Salter, who staged grand blooms of Edwin Molyneux,
W. H. Lincoln, Col. W. B. Smith, Mrs. C. H. Payne, Viviard Morel,
J. S. Schwabe, Condor, C. Shrimpton, Chas. Davis, Excelsior, Mdlle.
Marie Hoste, and Lord Brooke. BIr. P. Mann, gardener to W. H.
Laverton, Esq., Westbury, lost by two poinis. Mr. J. Inglefield was
a highly creditable third, his blooms, th ' Ugh of great depth, lacking in
breadth. Eight others competed. There was also good competition
with Anemone-flowered varieties, and with these Mr. Salter was again
first. Mr. BV. Robinson was second, the third prize going to Mr. W. H.
Clack. For reflexed varieties Mr. Robinson was first, having good
massive blooms. Mr. C. J. Salter was second, and Mr. Clack third.

Kovcmber 16, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

457

No less than five competed with a group of Chrysanthemum plants
to occupy a space 10 feet by 60 feet, and a very grand display was made,
all being deemed worthy of prizes, and received them accordingly. Mr.
\V. H. Clack, gardener to Col. C. E. Colton, M.P., Roundvvay Park,
Devizes, was first. Mr. W. Mantell, gardener to W. Brown, Esq.,
Pottering, was second with a very imposing group. The third prize
went to Mr. G. Pymm, gardener to Mrs. Gouldsmith, Trowbridge ; an
extra prize going to Mr. Smart, gardener to T. Chandler, Esq. ; and a
fifth to Dr. Eayment, Pewsey. Other plants were shown well.

[We have been compelled to abridge the reports of many shows, and
to omit some of which no notification was received either by advertise¬
ment or in the form of reporters’ tickets. ]

WOKK.fo^ItheWEEK..

HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

Strawberries. — Clear away all surplus plants from between the
rows, at the same time forking up strong weeds, or, if the latter are
only small, hoeing them down in dry weather will suffice. Runners
attached either to old or young plants ought to be cut, and the largest
of the old. leaves if at all withered or shabby may with advantage be
removed. Weedy, untidy, and crowded Strawberry beds are at this
season very unsightly, besides being detrimental to the well-being of
the future crop. A mulching of manure may advantageously be applied
between the rows of old plants, but recently planted Strawberries on
fairly rich ground will not need at present any stimulation from the
surface.

Raspberries. — If not previously cut away the old bearing canes
must now be removed, disposing the stout current year’s canes evenly
along the trellis if such be employed. Shorten them to about 5 feet in
length. When grown in stools or clumps divide the canes equally into
three portions. Shorten one portion to the height of the stake used,
which may be 5 feet, the next to 3|- feet, and the remaining one to
2 feet, so that a pyramidal form of growth may be obtained and the
fruiting portions disposed more regularly than is usually the case when
all the canes are pruned to one uniform height.

Planting Raspberries. — Raspberries may now be planted, digging
or trenching the ground well to a depth of 2 feet, adding some partially
decayed manure, which must be well incorporated with the soil. Rasp¬
berries enjoy a rich, deep, loamy soil, as may be evidenced in a few years
by the length and strength of the canes produced. When planting in
clumps the canes from eaeh being tied to a single stake, 8 feet apart is a
proper distance, but in lines, the canes being secured to wires 2 feet will
suffice. Plant strong roots with stout canes and plenty of fibres.
After planting mulch with manure, and shorten the canes to within
a foot of the ground. Strong growths will issue next year, but no fruit
will be had. It is better to sacrifice the first year’s crop in order to
obtain extra vigorous growth and establish the plants. This once
obtained in rich soil will continue with annual mulchings in the autumn
for the purpose of feeding, and a similar application of manure in the
surface soil where abundance of active fibres are always found .

Blackberries. — The cultivated forms of Blackberries produce fruit
which is exceedingly useful in the autumn. They succeed well in
gardens possessing a strong rich soil in a sheltered but open position.
The Parsley -leaved and Wilson, jun., Blackberries are two of the best,
the former doing well in cold late districts. The fruit is large, juicy,
and black in colour. Their cultivation is simple, being chiefly on the
same lines as Raspberries. They take rather longer to establish them¬
selves, seldom being strong enough to fruit before the third season after
planting, inasmuch as it is imperative for strong canes to be produced
before the plants are allowed to bear.

Planting- Blackberries. — Young plants, which are better than old
ones, obtained and planted now, cutting them down close to the soil
immediately after, or before growth commences in the spring, will
grow freely next season. Select an open position sheltered from
northerly or easterly winds. Trench the ground to a depth of 2^ feet,
thoroughly breaking up the subsoil, but not bringing it to the top.
Enrich the whole bulk of soil with manure of a suitable character. If
rather light, cow manure may be employed, but light shallow soils are
not suitable for producing superior growth and abundant fruit. Heavy
soil may be dressed with partially decayed horse manure, working it as
well in through the bulk of material as possible.

Blackberry canes grow to a great length, therefore plant at a distance
of 5 feet from each other in rows 8 to 10 feet asunder. A stout stake
should be driven down opposite each plant, and another midway between
the two, making them 2J feet apart. To strengthen them and hold
them together cross and diagonal pieces may be secured upon them, and
a trellis formed 6 to 8 feet high, to which the canes may be trained.
Laterals issue from the canes in summer, flower, and produce fruit in
immense clusters, which ripen at a time of the year when they prove
especially welcome.

Pruning and Feeding. — As before mentioned the plants should be
cut down closely immediately after planting, or at the latest before

growth commences in the spring. Shorten again the following autumn,
encouraging the subsequent season’s canes to grow vigorously, thinning
them out early to four or five of the strongest. Thorough ripening will
ensure fruitfulness, A good mulching of rich manure must be applied
every autumn to enrich the soil. Liquid manure in the summer and
at other times proves most beneficial to well established plants.

FRUIT FORCING.

Pines. — Young StocJi. — Small houses, span or three-quarter span-
roofed, are the moat suitable for young plants, where, with proper
attention to ventilation and close proximity to the glass without touch¬
ing it, they will make steady progress without being drawn and weakly,
as occurs when they are kept too close and warm, and a considerable
distance from the light. A temperature of 65° at night should not be
exceeded, and a mean between that and 55° at night, with 65° in the
daytime, will keep young stock in a healthy progressive condition,
admitting a little air at the top of the house at 65°, leaving it on all
day, but not to lower the temperature below that point. Keep the
bottom heat steady at 80°, avoiding anything approaching to a damp
atmosphere, but moderate humidity is necessary. Apply water only at
the roots when the plants become dry, and then give tepid weak liquid
manure. Allow the plants plenty of room. Suckers ready for starting
now may be kept until March, and if there is likely to be a scarcity of
these for starting at that time, any recently potted may be afforded
a light position in a moderately moist pit, with slight bottom heat, and
a temperature of 55° at night, keeping them rather dry at the roots.

In the fruiting department 65° will be ample at night, 5° lower in
the morning in cold weather, 70° to 75° by day artificially, and 10° to 15°
rise from sun heat. Take every opportunity of collecting leaves whilst
dry. Oak and Beech being the best, and whenever a favourable oppor¬
tunity offers push forward whatever may be necessary in the renewing
or augmenting the fermenting beds.

Vines. — Earliest forced in Pots. — Those started early in the month
will respond promptly to the call made upon them by the warmth at the
roots and the moist genial atmosphere, and will soon be showing signs of
grow'th, when the temperature may be slightly increased — 55° minimum
and 65° maximum from fire heat, with 10° more from sun heat,
proportionately increasing the atmospheric moisture and keeping the
soil healthfully moist. Ventilation will only require to be moderate,
affording what is needed at the top of the house, or if side air be given
it should be made to pass over the heated surface so as to become
warmed, for cold currents of air are very pernicious.

Houses of Tliin-sTiinned Grapes. — November weather, as a rule, is
not favourable to hanging Grapes, often causing them to damp consider¬
ably, Grapes have ripened well this season, the skins being thicker and
the flesh firmer than usual, whilst the juices are particularly rich and
sugary. Black Hamburgh and Foster’s Seedling, ripe in August, are
keeping wonderfully well, also Madresfield Court which keeps better
than Hamburghs, but loses colour seriously. Black Hamburghs with the
roots of the Vine entirely inside are shrivelling, whilst those with the
roots outside are quite fresh. Vines ripening their crops in September
are still in foliage, and will bear more moisture at the roots and in the
atmosphere than those that have had the Grapes ripe since August.
Slight heat in the pipes will be required almost constantly to maintain
an equable temperature, but this must not be high or it will cause the
berries to shrivel prematurely, ventilating freely and early in bright
weather so as to prevent moisture being condensed on the berries.
The outside borders are best protected from rains, as excessively moist
borders affect the Grapes prejudicially, and inside borders should have
sufficient moisture to prevent the soil cracking, and if covered with a
little clean sweet straw the Grapes will keep better. Covering the
border prevents its cracking, and keeps down moisture likely to arise
and prove injurious to the Grapes.

Hoiises Cleared of Grapes. — Where the Vines are leafless and the
Grapes cut, attend to the pruning and cleansing of the house. If the
Vines have stout, short-jointed well-ripened wood, the bearing shoots
(side growths or laterals as they are frequently termed) may be pruned
to a couple of eyes. If, however, the base buds are small, and the Vines
from similar buds in previous years have not given as large bunches as
desired, the shoots may be left a little longer, taking care to secure a
plump, round (not flat), well developed bud on stout, hard, thoroughly
ripened wood for pruning to, as this class of buds are necessary to give
close compact bunches of well set berries, with a stoutness of footstalk
that does not fall an easy prey to shanking. Large flat buds on long-
jointed pithy wood generally throw out large uneven badly set bunches,
with thin large flabby leaves on long-jointed wood, and these are
incapable of elaborating the food and concentrating it in the buds at
their base. Also avoid pointed buds, as they are not always productive
of bunches, and those produced are often so small and tendril-like,
as to be scareely w'orth allowing to remain for a crop. Wash the glass
with clear water, the wood and ironwork with softsoap, water, and a
brush. Remove the loose bark from the rods and spurs, but avoid close
peeling and hard scraping. Wash the Vines with tepid softsoap water
3 ozs. to a gallon, using a brush with care and judgment, and follow if
necessary with an insecticide. Clear away the mulching or loose surface
soil down to the roots, and place on a couple of inches thickness of
fresh turfy loam. Afterwards sprinkle over it 4 ozs. per square yard of
a mixture composed of three parts bonemeal and two parts kainit, and
this will be dissolved and washed down to the roots by the early
watering. If the houses must be used for plants they should be kept
cool, admitting air freely, and not exceeding 40° to 45° by artificial

458

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ NoTember 16, 1893.

means. Otherwise admit air freely in all but very frosty weather, a few
degrees of frost not injuring the Vines, but insuring more complete rest.

IVIelons.— Where the latest fruit is beginning to net, and will be
ripe some time next month, the plants need a genial atmosphere to
secure the swelling of the fruit. Damp the paths in the morning and
early afternoon, admitting a little air in the early part of the forenoon
to insure the dissipation of moisture, and induce evaporation from the
foliage and fruit. Keep the growths thin, yet allow a fair amount of
foliage. Maintain the night temperature at 65°, 70° to 75° by day,
advancing as much as possible by closing at midday from sun heat.
Afford liquid manure about twice a week. The plants that set their
fruit early in September from the July sowings should have all the
air possibly admitable with maintaining a temperature of 70° to 75°,
yet husbanding the sun heat without closing the house, withholding
moisture from the atmosphere and water from the roots.

1-1- _ _ ' . . 1 . 1 . . : _ 1 ■ 1 . 1 - 1 , 1 _ 1 - i ■ 1 1

HE BEE-KEEPER.

APIARIAN NOTES.

Hints for the Season — Repairing Hives.

All empty hives should be stored in a thoroughly dry place,
and when in condition, overhaul, clean, and repair all defects.
Paint or tar, the latter being the most durable, but if it cannot be
tolerated, creosote the wood, then varnish with stain according
to the taste of the bee-keeper. After this is done fill the frames
with foundation. When full sheets cannot be afforded use narrow
guides 1 inch broad. If half sheets are employed the bees are
liable to work out the space with drone comb. When thus finished
close the hives, and then they are in readiness for swarms when
the time of swarming comes.

Storms and Wrappings.

All hives should be stood level on a small piece of slate. If a
daub of tar is placed under each foot it will prevent decay. When
not loaded with weights to prevent storms overturning them, an iron
rod or wooden stake driven into the ground close to the hive, a
cord or wire round the hive and tied to the stake, will prevent them
being turned over by any gale. Wrappings should not be stored
away damp. When the hives are thoroughly protected there is no
better place to keep them than on the tenanted stocks. Crates
and supers are also kept upon the hive during the whole
year. All our hives being made to accommodate three stories,
with sufficient space for crown packing for the winter, are replete,
and in readiness at all times for immediate use.

Melting Combs.

After the honey has been taken from the combs, then the latter
steeped in water, they should be melted at once, as when left
lying about moths attack them, and soon render the whole
waxless. I find no be!;ter plan than to put the combs in bags of
cheese cloth and place them in a tin or copper of water one at a
time ; boil slowly for a few minutes, then press the bag with a
piece of wood, and as the wax oozes out and rises skim it off, as too
much boiling spoils it. When the wax is thoroughly softened and
melted remove the bag to a wide cylinder of fine perforations
connected with the honey presser, then bring the screw to bear upon
it. Meanwhile, the boiler must have a fresh bag of combs, so that
the work is constantly and expeditiously performed. As the wax
is prevented from squirting by an outer tin cylinder, it runs into a
spouted tin, connected with another vessel. The above plan is the
most effectual of any I have ever tried in separating the wax
from the dross. When it is all formed into cakes it is put in
tin, and this placed inside another. When melted it is
lifted from the fire and allowed to cool slowly, and then all sedi¬
ment may be removed by scraping. The foregoing methol is
applicable to large or small quantities.

Bees Quiescent.

Although pollen was carried in by our bees up till the last day
of October, they will not try to fly much during the coming two
months, so ought not to be disturbed in the slightest degree. At
the end of that period they get more restless, and will fly out at a
temperature which in November and December would not induce
them to do, the reason being that at that time many young bees
are being brought forward.

Foul Brood.

A correspondent signing himself George ” wishes to know how
to cure foul brood, and to disinfect the hives. Foul brood is
practically incurable for several reasons. By the time foul brood
is detected it would not pay to put off time and be at any expense
in attempting a cure, and even if arrested for the time being, it

would be sure to re-appear whenever warm weather came. I wish
to emphasise this last statement because certain persons have
asserted over and over again that warm weather is favourable for
the suppression of foul brood, whereas it is the very opposite,
as frequently proven by well managed experiments. Every bee¬
keeper should endeavour to keep away foul brood by preventing
all accumulation of moisture inside the hive. Hives painted outside
causes the moisture to condense on the inside of single-cased hives
absorbing much of it, and as the temperature rises it passes off in the
form of vapour and condenses upon bees and combs, while the honey
absorbs it, all which tends to cause disease. It is even worse in the
case of double-cased hives, inasmuch as it causes them to decay in
addition to the other injury. It is much safer to have the inside
of hives painted, even with the outside done, as then the moisture
runs down and out of the hive, at least all that is not absorbed by
the floor, the most death-dealing thing to bees during the
winter. A ventilating floor, whether the hive is painted or
not, is a safety valve during the whole year. As foul brood is as
easily incited by overheating as by dampness, both evils are
overcome by employing a ventilated floor.

When foul brood is suspected make an examination, and if
present it may be known by the clammy feel of the combs, offen¬
sive smell, and the sunken or concave perforated sealings of the
brood cells, these last containing a tough, gluey, putrid mass of
dead larvae. Do not tamper with foul brood. The moment it
is detected place the bees in an empty hive. Disinfect
every hive or appliance each time the hees have been in contact
with them. Subjecting these things to the fumes of sulphur or
charcoal, then washing thoroughly with lime and carbolic acid
perhaps cannot be excelled, but as prevention is better than cure,
use the hives I have advised.

Earwigs and Bees.

On page 402 Mr. J. R. S. Clifford asks gardeners to report on
what they know about earwigs. I am not a naturalist enough to
give a full and reliable description on the habits of earwigs, but I
can in some measure answer the questions put.

Earwigs are gregarious, congregating in great numbers in
sheltered places such as under bark of trees, whether on living trees
or when in heaps. During the winter they take up their quarters
under different material near the ground. In the spring and early
summer I have frequently observed amongst colonies of these large
white ones. What are they ? Many years since, thinking they
robbed bees of their honey, I had my bee house made clear of the
ground, supported at the corners by blocks, which stood in basins
of tar. Imagine my surprise when I went out after dark with a
lantern to see the outside of the house swarming with them, where
they could not reach unless they had flown.

Several times I have observed earwigs killing bees by catching
them in their forceps ; but, on the other hand, I have as often
observed bees kill earwigs. I am inclined to think earwigs
congregate about hives for warmth, that they naturally are afraid
of bees, although they eat dead ones and the larvae of moths and
other enemies of the garden, being more the friends of the gardener
than his enemy. — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

•^•All correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Crowing' Strawberries on a Small Scale for Profit

(A. U. A.). — By hiring a little ground, growing, and sending the
fruit to a London salesman you would only be able to do so profitably
by getting the fruit early or late, as in the height of the season small
consignments, unless of great excellence, hardly pay expenses of gather¬
ing, packing, carriage, toll, and salesman’s commission. Large, high-

November 16, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

459

coloured, even-sampled, fiist-cUss fruits only command remunerative
prices, and these you are more likely to obtain in your immediate
locality than by sending the produce to the London markets.

Cunlla Mariana (J.. F. &.)■ — The term Dittany is applied to
several different plants. For example, the Dictamnus Fraxinella is so
named, as also are two species of Origanum, while Cunila Mariana
is known in North America as the common Dittany. Possibly these
names have arisen from some fancied resemblance between the plants so
designated ; but to say the least the similarity of the Cunila to the

Dictamnus is by no means strongly marked. Cunila Mariana, of which
an illustration is given in fig. 66, is a tufted dwarf hardy perennial
plant included in the Mint family, and related to the Monardas and
Salvias, though differing materially in general appearance. The plant
rarely exceeds a foot in height, and produces its small rosy purple two¬
lipped flowers in great profusion, in dense corymbose or cymose clusters.
According to Gray this Cunila is found in the dry hills south of New
York ; in England it thrives in any ordinary soil not too wet, and
flowers in late summer.

Making Blood Manure (/. II. TF.). — It is useless attempting
to dissolve the protosulphate of iron in muriatic acid in the proportion
given in the recipe, and it is quite unnecessary to do so. The proto¬
sulphate ought to be in powder and mixed with the muriatic acid
before the liquid is poured on the blood, which must be rancid or
smell strongly, and then it will be converted into a paste and ultimately
powder. In that state it is a handy manure. As to its value as a
fertiliser compared with blood manure formed by mixing wood ashes
with blood we prefer the latter on account of the potash and other salts
the wood ashes contain, and as a general fertiliser it is perhaps unex¬
celled. The other method may be handier for those requiring small
quantities of manure for their potted and other plants. But there is
nothing better for encouraging growth and sustaining crops of flowers
or fruit than blood formed into a paste with dry ashes from twigs, dried,
and reduced to a fine powder.

Diseased Pears (,/, F, E. and Amateur'). — The skin of the fruit
in each case is disfigured by several depressed spots or scabs, and around
these there is a whitish margin with a dark border permeated by
mycelium, from which a few narrowly ovate bodies spring (stroma)
contracted in places, and these cells breaking off act as conidia or spores.
It is the condition of the fungus, Cladosporium dendriticum pyrinum,
called Spilocoea pomi, Fries. The fruit seems to have been attacked by
the fungus and then arrested, probably by the unusual hot weather, so
that the growth of the Pears was irregular and swollen in places. The
fungus develops on the fruit (even after it is gathered and stored) when
the conditions are favourable, and greatly diminishes its using value. All
affected fruit should be destroyed by burning, as it is unsightly and not
perhaps wholesome. It is advised to lift the trees if not too large and
give them some good fresh loam, or otherwise afford support. This
tends to a better growth in the trees and assists them to resist the

disease. The trees should also be sprayed with sulphate of copper, 1 lb.
to 25 gallons of water, when the buds commence swelling with a view
to destroying the spores of the fungus, and they should be sprayed again
as soon as the fruit is set with Bordeaux mixture, made as follows : —
dissolve 4 oz. of sulphate of copper in a vessel by itself in 2 or 3
gallons of water, slake 4 ozs. quicklime (light lump.s) in another vessel
and form into a thin whitewash, then pour this through a hair sieve
slowly into the vessel containing the sulphate of copper solution, stir
well and add enough water to make gallons, and use this at once
as a spray, coating every part of the trees with the finest possible dew or
film. If necessary, repeat in about three weeks, A third application
may be necessary if the attack is a bad one at a similar interval.

N'ames of Fruits. — Notice. — Wc have pleasure in naming good
typical fruits (when the names are discoverable) for the convenience of
regular subscribers, who are the growers of such fruit, and not col¬
lectors of specimens from non-subscribers. This latter procedure is
wholly irregular, and we trust that none of our readers will allow
themselves to be made the mediums in infringing our rules. Special
attention is directed to the following decision, the object of which is
to discourage the growth of inferior and promote the culture of superior
varieties. In consequence of the large mimher of worthless Apples and
Fears sent to this office to he named., it has been decided to name only
specimens and varieties of approved merit, and to reject the inferior,
tohich are not worth sending or growing. The names and addresses of
senders of fruit to be named must in all cases be enclosed with the
specimens, whether letters referring to the fruit are sent by post or
not. The names are not necessarily required for publication, initials
sufficing for that. Only six specimens can be named at once, and any
beyond that number cannot be preserved. They should he sent on the
first indication of change towards ripening. Bessert Pears cannot he
named in a hard green state. (II. B. D.). — Marbchal de Cour.
(P. K.). — Beurre Superfin. (Mrs. J. H, Fanning). — Calebasse Grosse.
(G. II.). — Pear Josephine des Malines. (J.B.). — 1, Margil ; 2, Winter
Calville ; 3, Cockle’s Pippin ; 4, Pearson’s Plate. (T. S. N. P.) — 1, General
Todleben ; 2, Beurrb Diel ; 3, Glou Morpeau ; 4, Doyennb du Comice.

Xirames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
(R. M). — 1, Pteris serrulata cristata ; 2, P. cretica albo-lineata. (A. B.).
— Woodwardia radicans. (Somerset^). — Ltelia autumnalis. (L. B.). —
Hoya carnosa. (E. F.). — Centropogon Lucyanus.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

W. Cooper, 755, Old Kent Road, S.E. — Illustrated Catalogue of
Horticultural S^indries.

W. Clibran & Son, Oldfield Nurseries, Altrincham. — Chrysantheimms .
Dobbie & Co., Rothesay. — Catalogue of Chrysanthemums.

OOVBNT GARDEN MARKET.— Novbmbek 15th.
Maeket quiet, well supplied.

FRUIT.

Apples, per bushel
Cobs .

Beans, Kidney, per lb.
Beet, Red, dozen . . . .

Cauliflowers, dozen . . .

Celery, bundle .

Ooleworts, dozen bunches
Cucumbers, dozen . . .

Endive, dozen .

Herbs, bunch . . . . .

Lettuce, dozen . .
Mushrooms, punnet ,.

he price is very low.

s.

d.

s.

d.

d.

s.

d

2

0 to 7

6

Peaches, per doz . 0

0 to

0

0

30

0

32

6

Plums, per half sieve . . 0

0

0

0

0

6

2

0

St. Michael Pines, each . . 2

0

3

0

10

0

15

0

VEGETABLES.

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

0

3

to 0

4

Mustard and Cress, punnet 0

2 to

0

0

1

0

0

0

Onions, bunch . 0

3

0

0

0

4

0

6

Parsley, dozen bunches . . 2

0

3

0

2

0

3

0

Parsnips, dozen . 1

0

0

6

1

0

1

3

Potatoes, per owt . 2

0

4

8

2

0

4

0

Salsafy, bundle . 1

0

1

5

1

0

3

6

Scorzouera, bundle . . . . 1

6

0

0

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb . 0

3

0

0

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel . 8

0

0

0

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb . 0

3

0

7

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch . 0

4

0

6

0

9

1

0

WHOLESALE

PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.

ty.

Chrysanthemum blooms very plentiful this season, hence

.rum Lilies, 12 blooms . .
.zalea, dozen sprays . . . .

Jouvardias, bunch .. ..

lamellias, dozen blooms . .
larnations, 12 blooms
Ihrysanthemums, dozen

bunches . 3

ihrysanthemums, doz. bis. 0

iucharis, dozen . 4

lardenias, per dozen . . 2

jilac (French) per bunch 3
jilium lanoifolium, dozen

blooms . 1

, ilium longiflorum,pordoz. 0
laidenhair Fern, dozen

bunches . 4

larguerites, 12 bunches . . 2

lignonette, 12 bunches . . 2

d. 8. d
0 to 5 0

1 6
1 0
3 0
2 0

6 0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms
Pelargoniums, 12 bunches
Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

bunches .

Primula (double), dozen

sprays .

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches
Roses (indoor), dozen ..

„ Tea, white, dozen . ,

„ YeUow, dozen .. .. 2

Tuberoses, 12 blooms. . .. 0

Violets, Parme (French),

per bunch . 2

Violets, Czar (French), per

bunch . 2

Violets (English), dozen
bunches . 1

8. d. 3. d.

3 0tol2 0
6 0 9

U

4 0 6 0

0 6
2 0
0 6
1 0

1 0

3 0
2 6
2 0

460

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 16, 1893.

PLANTS

8.

d.

s.

d.

Arbor Vitae (golden) dozen

6

0 to 12

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

Chrysanthemums, per doz.

4

0

9

0

„ large plants, each

Dracaena terminalis, x)er

1

0

2

0

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Dracaena viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Ericas, per dozen . . . .

9

0

18

0

Euonvmus, var., dozen . .

6

0

18

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen
Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

6

0

24

0

4

0

18

0

IN POTS.

s.

d.

s.

d.

Ferns (small'i per hundred

4

0

to 6

0

Ficus eiastica, each .. ..

1

0

7

6

Foliage plants, var., each. .

2

0

10

0

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen

12

0

24

0

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

3

0

4

0

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . .

6

0

12

0

Mignonette, per doz .

6

0

9

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Palmis, in var., each .. ..

1

0

15

0

„ (specimens) .. ..

21

0

63

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

2

0

0

0

Solanums, per dozen.. ..

9

0

12

0

PROFITABLE LIVE STOCK.

In a herd of cows selection and judicious breeding are the
chief factors in obtaining really superior animals. See what
they have done among the Shorthorns, Herefords, Devons, and
Black-polled breeds for the production of beef, and among Channel
Island cattle, Ayrshires, Red Polls, the Kerries, the cross breds —
aye and also among the Shorthorns, for the production of milk,
butter, and cheese. Given careful selection, it really becomes
very much a local matter of ways and means. It is not every
man that can afford to indulge in the purchase of pedigree stock
from a herd of high repute, but by being on the alert to
purchase really good stock as opportunity offers the herd
improves slowly but surely, becoming increasingly valuable and
profitable year by year. Twice recently have we been shown
the cow of its particular locality, one of them in Leicestershire,
the other in Derbyshire. Both were remarkable for their
regular yield of an exceptionally large quantity of rich milk.
Such cows but too often are regarded as curiosities, without any
thought being given to the possibility of herds of them being
got together by selection and breeding. It is in this matter that
a few thoughtful men of more than average intelligence
combined with energy and steady perseverance excel. They
never let any chance of obtaining such cows pass by, are will¬
ing to pay something extra for their fancy, and then take
good care to turn them to full account.

In the report of a “Typical Farm in Cheshire and North
Wales ” in the last number of the Royal Journal, there are some
interesting facts about the herds of cows kept by the Cheshire
dairy farmers. Most of them evidently give preference to a
cross between Shorthorns and Welsh, due attention being given
in the crossing to the selection of the progeny of deep milkers.
In only one instance is there mention of a cross between Ayr¬
shires and Shorthorns carefully selected for the last twenty-one
years. This was at Spurstow Hall, Tarporley, the farm of
Messrs. David Byrd & Son, whose herd of 109 milking cows
is a fine one, well fed, well cared for, and deep milkers. This
herd is so well managed that we give some further particulars
of it taken from the report. The practice of the farm is to
sell the milk from the whole of the cows during the six or
seven autumn and winter months of the year, and to convert
it into cheese the remainder of the time. About eight cows go
to each milker. Each cow’s milk is weighed once a week. The
milk is strained outside the dairy and conducted by an open
trough into the milk vat, thus preventing any ingress by the
milkers into the dairy. After cheese-making the whey stands
for two days ; the cream is then skimmed off by hand and
churned into whey butter. The whey is afterwards carried by
a pipe to a cistern in the piggeries and pumped therefrom into
the pig troughs. The dairy, although adjoining, is distinct
from the house.

The account kept by Messrs. Byrd is equally instructive.
Here is part of it for last year.

DAIRY PRODUCE 1892 FROM 104 COWS.

475 lbs. butter at lljd .

37 calves sold .

30 „ reared .

26,175f galls, of milk sold .

Less freight .

31,353 galls, ot milk made into 459 cheeses
= 12 tons 3 cwt. 0 qr. 29 lbs. (121 lbs.
to cwt ) = 553J galls, per cow, 2 cwt.

1 qr. 22^ lbs. cheese .

Whey, 17s. per cow .

Total .

Average

per cow. Total.

£

s.

d.

£

s.

d.

£

s.

d.

0

4

4

22

15

H

24

45

14

0

J!

0

13

9|

69

14

4

938

18

10

135

1

1

7

14

n

803

; 17

9

7 12

li

794 16

9

0 17

0

88 8

0

£17 1 10^

£1779 12

OJ

The average for the thirteen years, 1880 to 1892, was
£18 17s. lOd. per cow, and the falling off in 1892 was attributed
to the unfavourable season. It would be curious to see how
the average of the current year is affected by the drought. The
' bulls appear to be especially well selected, and seem likely to
perpetuate the good dairying qualities of the herd. Numbers
are kept up and increased by rearing the heifer calves. This is
carefully done, and the heifers go into the herd with their first
calf at an age of about two to two and a quarter years.

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

Sorry indeed were we to see sheepfolds on Swedes since writing our
last farm notes. The only thing in sound practice to justify such a thing
would be the bringing of more land into course for winter corn. If
Swedes are used in this way so long before Christmas what is to be done
for the sheep later on in midwinter ? There should now be for early
folding Mustard, Coleseed, early Cabbage, and Thousand-headed Kale,
some late growth of Clover, and mixed layers, with a run on pasture
by day. Do not keep sheep of any sort confined altogether in the folds,
a change is healthful, and a frequent turn on a hard road is good for
them. Look regularly to the feet ; allow no creeping in of bad cases of
foot rot, but let the hoofs be pared whenever it is necessary, and any
difficult case be at once isolated. Ewes forward in lamb must have
quiet comfortable quarters, and be under very frequent observation by
day and night. Do not disturb them at night, but approach them quietly
just to see all is well and there is no disturbance, or worrying by dogs.
This is entirely worth while. A friend of ours going to his ewefold one
night found the fold empty, and evidence of a rush in several broken
hurdles. The barking of dogs in the distance heard by him through the
hush of night told the sad tale but too well. Two large lurcher dogs
had driven them out of the fold to a considerable distance, and the loss
both of ewes and lambs was most serious.

Home farmers having the advantage of a park with its lofty
enclosures do well to have the ewes in there for a month or two before
lambing time ; they are then safe from nocturnal disturbance. Keep
all ewes in lamb off the Turnips for every reason. We cannot too often
repeat this note of warning. To allow them to consume large numbers
of half-frozen roots tends seriously to lower vital heat, and so taxes the
system seriously ; to keep them in muddy folds causes so great a strain
upon their frames as also to prove a severe trial just when they require
extra care. Both things cause abortion largely in a flock, and foot rot
often runs riot at the same time.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamden Square. London.

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

Date.

9 A.M.

In THE DAY.

Bain.

1893.

November.

1 Barometer

1 at 32°, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday . .

5

29-951

37-4

35-1

N.

47-1

43-6

34-4

51-1

33-0

—

Monday . .

6

30-017

35-8

34-1

N.

44-9

46 9

32-1

77-9

28-4

—

Tuesday . .

7

30-254

36-1

35-0

N.E.

43-3

46-2

32-0

75-3

29-0

OOlO

Wednesday

8

30-314

38-9

35-9

N.E.

42-3

45-0

32-4

66-3

27-9

—

Thursday . .

9

30-288

39-7

36-3

N.E.

42-7

45-9

36-1

80-7

33-0

—

Friday

10

30-251

42-8

39-0

N.E.

42-1

46-4

34-4

52-1

31-0

—

Saturday . .

11

30-334

46-2

44-1

N.E.

42-9

50-1

41-5

59-8

38-4

—

30-201

39-6

37-1

43-6

46-3

34-7

66-2

31-5

0010

REMARKS.

5tli. — Fair early ; drizzly from 10 to 11 A.M., then occasional sunshine till noon, and
bright afternoon and night.

6th. — Almost cloudless from sunrise to midnight.

7th. — Almost cloudless morning, and bright sun till 3 P.M., when there was a shower
of rain and hail, the sun shining meanwhile ; generally cloudy after 3.15 P.ll.

8th. — Cloudy morning; bright sunshine from 1.30 p.M. to 3.30 P.M., and generally
cloudy after.

9th. — Bright sunshine almost throughout, with brisk N.E. wind.

10th. — Overcast throughout, and high wind in the morning.

11th. — Overcast till noon ; much bright sunshine in afternoon.

A cool dry week with northerly wind and very little cloud. — G-. J. Symons.

November 23, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

461

PERSEVERANCE WITH

POTATOES.

- X

During the year 1885 we had the pleasure of inspecting the
results of crossing one of the species of Potatoes described
as Solanum Maglia with three good English varieties. This was
at Reading, in the grounds of Messrs. Sutton & Sons, and in the
same grounds we have had the pleasure of inspecting a no less
remarkable and decidedly more promising output this autumn
from a similarly conducted series of experiments. S. Maglia as
the seed bearer and a seedling from Victoria as pollen parent
crossed in 1887 produced two “hybrids,” one having reddish,
pebble-shaped tubers with no particularly attractive character to
recommend them, the other wholly different, the tubers being
round, of full size, white, with a rough skin like Schoolmaster ;
yet entirely distinct, unquestionably an interesting, and may prove
a decidedly valuable acquisition.

In the summer of 1891 the well-known variety Imperator, also
another unnamed cultivated Potato, were pollenised from the
small reddish tubered No. 1 hybrid ; also a commercial variety
was pollenised from it as well. In the following year (1892) these
hybrid Potato seedlings were remarkable for the number and size
of the tubers they produced, and the present year’s crops were
looked forward to with no ordinary degree of interest. Though
the impress of the pollen parent was very apparent in the growth,
which to coin a word was decidedly magliaised, yet the tubers
from the red polleniser were white with one exception, a mottled
round, five of the other varieties being white rounds, and six white
kidneys. The yield from some of these was remarkable. For
instance, though the tubers planted were of necessity small, yet
eight of them (No. 5), a lemon fleshed kidney, produced
33 lbs. 9 ozs. of extremely fine Potatoes ; six tubers of No. 8
gave 17 lbs. 7 ozs. of mottled roundish tubers packed closely
round the stem ; eight small seed tubers of No. 11 gave
32 lbs. 2 ozs. of large white fleshed kidney Potatoes ; and eight
of No. 12 yielded 24 lbs. 3 ozs. of lemon fleshed full sized
kidney-shaped tubers. Those four varieties appeared to stand
out as the greatest producers from the twelve raised from the
Imperator cross indicated — the red tubered variety as tbe pollen
parent.

From the other cross — an unnamed commercial variety —
pollenised as above, twenty-nine seedlings were raised, nine of
them producing kidney-shaped, and the remaining twenty round
tubers — all, both round and kidney, being white. The diversity
in yield was very great, some giving poor returns, several fair to
good crops, and others again large yields, the heaviest, No. 11,
white round, being 25 lbs. 14 ozs., from eight small tubers. As
a rule the round varieties were the best in this cross, the kidneys
in the other. ‘Also, as a rule, the crops possessed the characteristic
strikingly apparent, of the tubers being thickly clustered, almost
densely packed, close round the stems, and in this respect pre¬
sented an appearance wholly dissimilar from Potatoes generally as
the seedlings were lifted and “ stood,” for it cannot be said they
were “ spread,” on the ground. Most of them were of medium
size, but to have obtained this size so quickly and the bulk of
many so great augurs well for the future, for if the bountiful
character of the best of them can be combined with the almost
faultless form and superior quality of the best of our cultivated
varieties, there will be added to existing good properties an

No. 700. — Voii. XXVII., Third Seuies.

abundance in yield to which they at present have no claim.
Whether this combination can be effected and fixed time alone
can tell. The vagaries of Potatoes produced by intercrossing
cannot be foreseen, they have a habit of sliding back, quickly or
slowly, also intermittently, and often provokingly, to nature so
to say. Some appear to attain constancy in a comparatively short
time, while others “sport about” for years. They may be to all
appearance “ true ” one season, axd the next as uncertain as the
weather — as “shifty,” as it has been humorously described, “as a
waggonload of monkeys.” Tke one strong character of these
seedlings, so strong that it ought to be retained, and exert a
dominating influence on others, is the heaps of tubers packed and
piled on each other, as if clinging together closely around, above,
and below the parent set.

This is a character not, we think, possessed by Solanum tube¬
rosum, the supposed progenitor of our present race of cultivated
Potatoes. It may be so. Mr. Baker of Kew has no doubt about it,
and he is a very great authority. At the same time, Heriot’s report
of the country visited by Sir Walter Raleigh describes the Potato
as growing there in “ damp places tubers as large as Walnuts,
some much larger, and good for food either boiled or baked. This
description would appear to apply more nearly to the coast plant
Solanum Maglia than to the hill plant S. tuberosum, and Heriot
was in the Raleigh Expedition when tubers were collected and
brought to Ireland. It is certain, too, that anterior to the outbreak
of the Potato disease in 1845 and in subsequent years, before
endeavours were made to raise new varieties, that Potatoes were
grown in fields and gardens in the north-eastern counties that had
far greater resemblance to S. Maglia than S tuberosum ; also it is
certain that during the years of failure of English crops that large
cargoes of Potatoes from Belgium, Holland, and Germany to our
eastern ports had the Maglia characters of peculiar rugged (con¬
tracted in places) shape, as well as the purplish red colour ; in
fact, many of the tubers were so like Maglias that it would have
taxed an expert to distinguish them from each other. But
whether or not S. Maglia was once grown in England, and had a
share in the production of English varieties, it is not to be
found now among cultivators, and Messrs. Sutton & Sons have
done well to obtain tubers from Kew for purposes of ferti¬
lisation in the hope of giving a more vigorous and consequently
greater disease-resisting nature to stocks that may be raised from
them, and possessing also the other good properties that invest the
Potato with value as a commercial product and necessary article
of diet.

But why, it will naturally be asked, these Reading experiments
de novo, since an elaborate series was conducted not many years ago ?
Because there was a doubt as to identity of the species chosen, as we
indicated at the time, pointing out that the variation in the tubers
was clear enough for them to be separated into two sections differing
in colour. In fact one of the plants sported and gave white tubers,
while those of S. Maglia are as far from white as any tubers can be.
The Reading firm, accurate and thorough in its undertakings,
could not have the experiments rest on a doubt, and therefore set
aside all the painstaking and time-consuming work, gaining
nothing but — and this must be very valuable — information. Hence
the new series and going back to the beginning, the experiments
founded on fact and conducted with the same extreme care as it
is possible to exercise in such work. Slow and delicate work it is,
as may be understood by an example in routine.

Three seeds obtained from the first 1887 cross were sown on
March 5th, 1888, and the first plant appeared on April 2nd. On
May 30th, one cutting was taken from a side shoot, and three
rooted suckers removed, all potted singly. In August seven
cuttings were taken, and the plants grown in pots. In May, 1889,
there were established in pots from tubers, cuttings, and offshoots
twenty-five plants, four being sent to Mr. Baker, Kew, the rest
planted outdoors, and so increased from year to year, the hybrid

No. 2356.— VoL. LXXXIX., Old Series.

462

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 23, 1893.

remaining the same in every respect as the first year, except that
the tubers are rather larger.

The No. 2 seedling was giovn in pots for three years on
account of its weakness, bul last year (1892) was planted outdoors,
which much improved it in size of tubers. Although a most trying
season, there was no trace of disease. Three tubers were planted,
but one failed. Upon lifting the two plants on October 11th,
1892, the crop consisted of twelve tubers — a very handsome white
round, of excellent shape, and crackled skin, such as cultivators
like to see. Six tubers were planted this year (1893), and
upon examination when lifted four roots were found to be
of the same type as the previous year, and these produced
an extraordinarily large crop, but not quite so round in shape as
last year, owing to a second swelling after the rain. The other
two plants ran back to very small tubers and a large quantity of
delicate fibrous roots, but the haulm was the same in every respect
as the four plants just described, being very strong ; leaves rough,
like Victoria, but the points of the shoots resembling those of the
first cross.

Such is the routine. The results obtained no one could see
without being interested and without wondering what will be the
outcome of this most carefully conducted aeries of experiments.
If perseverance has its reward it will in this case be well won
after so many years of persistent work in endeavouring to increase
the yield and improve the character of the most important of our
root crops, and with such a foundation to rest on as has now
b?en laid the conductors of the work are looking hopefully onward
to the future.

AUTUMN AND WINTER HARDY FLOWERS.

The appearance above the ground of two autumn Snowdrops —
Galanthus octobrensis and G. corcyrensis, gives us no ordinary degree
of pleasure. Thvir own beauty will be great in a week or two, and with
a protective sheet of glass we may enjoy them until their delicately
beautiful sisters of January and February appear. One may well
ask, Why should the garden of hardy flowers remain desolate so
long? Why, with so many winter flowering plants should a walk
along its paths show nothing of brightness, and little but a melancholy
array of dead stems and tallies ?

Looking along one of my rockeries the other day I paused before
a good plant of Saxifraga Fortunei, and admired its thick and succu¬
lent looking leaves and its curiously beautiful flowers. They are
alike curious and beautiful with their green sepals and unequally
sized petals of white, which are described as “saw-edged,” a term
which may be botanically correct, but which fails to express the
form in which they are shaped so as to add greater attractions to the
flower, and which one cannot properly describe. The lower one is
longer than any of the others, while the two upper ones again are
shorter than the two which come between. The golden boss in the
centre of the flower adds to its charms also, and a good plant with
many of these flowers in panicles on thick, fleshy stems, fails not to
please. Pity it is that the inevitable failing must be disclosed that
early frosts at times play sad havoc with the plant, and that one
night will destroy the hope cherished of the usual blooms. I find
Fortune’s Saxifrage, which was introduced from Japan in 1863, to
be most satisfactory on rockwork facing almost due south, and
planted in sandy peat with the addition of a quantity of gritty
matter. It is increased hy division, and a small piece 1 received a
few years ago has now assumed quite respectable proportions.

Extremely beautiful for a long period has been Androsace lanugi¬
nosa, A fine plant on the same rockery as Fortune’s Saxifrage is
still in bloom, and its spreading stems of silvery leaves and rose
coloured flowers with yellow eye, are very charming, I am referring
to this plant at this time principally for the purpose of advising its
covering with a sheet of glass or slate raised a few inches above the
foliage, so as to throw off wet, and at the same time admit of the
free circulation of air. When a slate is used I generally remove it
during the day in fine weather, and, even with this trouble, I con¬
sider the slate preferable to glass, which in the spring sometimes over¬
stimulates the growth. All my Androsaces are thus covered from
October until March or April, and the little trouble is more than
repaid by the wealth and beauty of these charming alpines,

. “spring” Heath, Erica carnea alba, has been so long

in bud that I was not surprised to see it in flower a few days ago, and
thus coming in long ere the Cornish Heath, E. vagans, has passed

away. One is at a loss to know why more use is not made of this
pretty Heather which, on sunny rockeries, will yield its bloom
through some of the darkest and dullest months of the year. In my
garden it is thoroughly at home, the white form which is sometimes
known as E. herbacea, being always earlier than the flesh-coloured
one.

The time is rapidly coming when the claims of the autumn and
winter Crocuses to inclusion in our gardens will need little advocacy,
I may, perhaps, be allowed to mention two as indicative of the
variety of beauty we may have. One of these is C. cancellatus, of
which the type has pretty little white flowers veined with purple at
the base, the flowers appearing before the leaves. This species,
which is a native of Asia from North Palestine to Armenia, varies in
colour, however, from lilac to white, and thus a considerable variety
may be obtained. Very charming, too, is C. ochroleucus, which I
had previously but unfortunately lost, and received this year through
the kindness of a reader of the Journal. This is a beautiful little
Crocus of a pretty creamy white with orange base. It is a native of
Syria and North Palestine, and appears to be rather tender. It is,
however, worthy of all care, and a little protection will be well
repaid.

The value and beauty of the Michaelmas Daisies become more
and more apparent, and bushes of blue, purple blue, pink, lilac, and
almost pure white in the borders fill us with pleasure. Nor are the
flowers less beautiful or valuable when cut for house decoration, A
little favourite with me, not so much from the size or beauty of the
individual flowers, but from the habit of growth of the plant and the
charming appearance it presents when in full flower, is Aster
diffusus horizontalis. It smothers itself with small white starry-
looking flowers with raised pink centres. The plant is so sturdy in
habit that in a position where it is slightly sheltered from our severe
gales from the Solway it requires no staking or tying, a great
addition to its beauty being gained by the absence of the comparative
stiffness inseparable from such supports. This season it has reached
rather over 2j feet in height, and its spray-like branches add much to
the beauty of the garden. It has also the merit of being extremely
hardy, and with moderate weather should bloom on until Christmas
Day. Indeed, in former years I have cut flowers from it within a
day or two of the New Year. — S. Arnott.

The Orchid Growers’ Manual.

Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son, Upper Holloway, inform us
that they have a new (the seventh) and much enlarged edition
of “ The Orchid Growers’ Manual ” in the press, with numerous
additional illustrations, which will be issued early in the new year.

L.elio- Cattle YA Statteriana.

This is another of the many beautiful bigeneric hybrids which
have been raised by Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic
Nursery, Chelsea. It is the result of a cross between Lselia
Perrini and Cattleya labiata, and is a charming novelty, meriting
the first-class certificate awarded by the Royal Horticultural Society
on November 14th. The flower, as depicted in the illustration
(fig. 67), is large, the sepals and petals resembling those of Cattleya
labiata in form and colour. A trace of Laelia Perrini is noticeable
in the lip, the front lobe of which is a rich purplish crimson.
The base of the lip is white faintly marked with crimson.

Orchids for Flowering at Christmas.

Orchids are always valued highly during the winter months,
but at no period are they so much appreciated as at Christmas time,
because most of those then obtainable furnish bright or distinct
shades of colour, that are especially welcome when flowers are
never too numerous or diversified. Many beautiful groups can be
formed with the best of the winter-flowering Orchids, associated
with Roman Hyacinths, a few early Lilies of the Valley, Ferns,
and light Palms, as such arrangements are adapted for situations
where bolder groups of the late Corysanthemums are out of place.
Some also are useful for cutting when flowers for buttonholes,
sprays, or choice bouquets are not very abundant. As the present
is a critical and important time in the preparation of Orchids for
Christmas, the opportunity has been chosen to give a few practical
hints on the general management needed to ensure a prospect of

November 23, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

463

success, also to name some of the species or varieties which have
been proved by many years’ experience to be the most reliable and
satisfactory for the purpose. _

The Orchids that may be had in flower at the particular season
now under consideration can be classed under three heads ; —
Firstly, Those which flower naturally in late December, or that
require little assistance to induce them to do so. Secondly,
Those which usually flower in November or January, and that
may be retarded or hastened sufficiently to cause the production
of the flowers when desired, or to prolong the usual period.
Thirdly, There are some Orchids almost continuously in flower,
or which blossom at ditferent seasons and occasionally yield their
attractions in midwinter. Upon the first group we
must chiefly depend for our Christmas display, and
to them the principal attention will be devoted in
these notes. With regard to the second group there
is more uncertainty and risk, as the majority of
Orchids do not readily submit to the ordinary pro¬
cesses of hastening or delaying the flowering period.

In either there is often much danger of losing the
blooms, and even the plants themselves, unless of
naturally vigorous habit, will frequently suffer to a
serious extent. Forcing, as commonly understood and
practised, can be safely adopted with very few, and

temperatures and the due but not excessive supply of moisture,
while near large towns a still greater difficulty is found in the
poisonous fogs that too frequently spoil all our hopes just as they
are on the point of being realised. One essential must be kept in
view in the preparation of such plants for winter flowering, and
that is to have them as sturdy as possible with firm, well-developed,
and matured leaves, or in the case of the partially deciduous kinds
to ensure plump, thoroughly ripened stems or pseudo-bulbs by a
previous season’s careful culture. The avoidance of excessively
high temperatures, with great quantities of moisture and insufficient
ventilation, or exposure to light, is absolutely necessary to ensure
the required condition, and happily the present season has been in
many respects most favourable to the maturation needed. The
hot bright weather has imposed a severe tax upon
growers in many ways, but it has permitted a free
and continuous ventilation which with attention to
supplying sufficient water to prevent the ill effects of a
parched atmosphere on delicate foliage, has ensured a
ripening that will enable the plants to endure their
winter’s trials with less danger.

It is a common mistake with beginners in Orchid
culture to fancy that their success must largely
depend upon the accuracy with which they maintain
certain temperatures for each month as given in the

Fig. G7.— LJiLIO-CATTLEYA STATTERIANA.

these chiefly the deciduous kinds bearing large pseudo-bulbs as
storehouses of nourishment, such as the Dendrobiums of the nobile
and Wardianum types, the Calanthes and a few others. Even with
them the truth of the old adage, “ The more haste the less speed,” is
often exemplifled, and “hasten slowly” may serve as a useful
motto for Orchid growers who wish to secure plants in flower
before their usual season. In the third group a long list could
be given of Orchids that have been had in flower during December,
for in large collections some will produce occasional flowers at all
seasons ; but these may be termed the accidents, and the only sorts
to be relied upon in this group are those which flower almost con¬
tinuously throughout the year, some of the hybrids being remark¬
able examples of this character, especially Cypripedium or Seleni-
pedium Sedeni, for I have had vigorous plants of this which have
not been without flowers expanded or showing for nearly three
years. _ _

As regards the winter treatment of Orchids to yield flowers
freely and retain them as long as possible, the difficulties that
cultivators have to contend with are chiefly in the regulation of

guide books and calendars. In this they misunderstand the
object of the writers, who, if they are practical men, usually
try to furnish some indication of what is required to be varied
according to circumstances by the judgment of individual culti¬
vators. Nothing leads to more disastrous results in the winter
culture of Orchids than endeavouring to keep up a fixed tempe¬
rature by hard firing when outside the thermometer may be down
extremely low. Fuel is consumed wastefully, and the air in the
houses is dried to such an extent that water has to be distributed
liberally, ventilation is impossible, and the plants are exposed to
a “stewing” atmosphere, effectually weakening the growth and
foliage already made, and frequently encouraging the production,
of unseasonable growths at the expense of the plants themselves,
the flimsy leaves seldom properly mature, and a good period of
flowering can never be reasonably expected under such conditions^
It is far better to allow a fall in the warm houses of 5 or even 10
in exceptionally severe weather, reducing the supply of moisture
proportionately, without permitting the plants to suffer in any
way, than to parboil them for the delusive satisfaction of preserving
a regulation temperature.

461

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Norember 23, 1893.

There are always some plants more delicate than others and
more impatient of variations in the heat provided, and whether
these are grown in an Orchid house proper or in a structure con¬
taining other plants, they should be assigned positions where the
conditions are more in accordance with their requirements. Obser¬
vation will soon acquaint a man with peculiarities of this character,
and I have had in my own experience many striking examples of
how much attention to this matter will contribute to success. There
are, indeed, few plant growers who could not bear witness to the
strange partiality displayed by some plants for particular positions
in houses, and how they will thrive just where they are suited and
not succeed so well in another part of the same house. In the
winter, when all circumstances are more trying to plants and
cultivators, these apparently simple matters become very important.

In providing ventilation at the present time and onwards
much caution must be exercised, as though the day may be ex¬
tremely bright, yet a cold cutting wind admitted direct to the
foliage is a prolific source of injury. For winter the openings of
the ventilators should be covered with perforated zinc or some
woven material that will prevent a sudden inrush of cold air, and
the method of admitting air from the outside by means of pipes
under the paths, gratings or hot-water pipes is very convenient, as
it can be stopped at any time and does not admit too great a body of
air at once. In unusually severe weather it is better not to attempt
ventilation at all; in fact, whenever the temperature is near freezing
point it is not safe or necessary if care is exercised in regulating
the heat as already suggested. _

With one more hint we will close these notes on general
management. This is in regard to the application of water, which
should always be employed of the same temperature as the house,
for supplies of cold water to the tender roots are even more
dangerous than draughts of cold air on the foliage. When tanks
are inside houses which catch the rain falling upon the house, it
often happens after heavy autumn or winter storms that the large
quantities of water admitted remnin of a low temperature for a
much longer time than is supposed unless pipes pass through the
tank. It is preferable to keep a can or two full of water standing
near the pipes to be used only for watering the plants, the other
being employed for damping the paths or shelves. Syringing the
plants is better dispensed with altogether unless the weather be
warm and bright, when one occasional dewing will refresh the foliage
greatly. _

Most gladly would we give an antidote for the ill effects of- fogs
were such a one known. Unfortunately, though, the chief diffi¬
culties Orchid growers have to encounter in the Metropolitan
district in the winter are caused by the fogs, and many a promising
Christmas display has been cut off prematurely by a day or two's
dense fog in December, yet little can be done to prevent or nullify
the injuries. It is advisable to keep the house as securely closed
as possible, avoiding opening the doors unnecessarily ; and some
advantage has even been found from pulling down the blinds
where these are still attached. Yery little moisture should be
distributed about the house, and none on the foliage. This is all
that can be done, and with the greatest care it must often result in
the loss of many flowers, and can only be regarded as in great
degree an unavoidable evil, though it must be observed that the
conditions of sturdy growth already advocated assist considerably
in enabling the plants to withstand the evil influences. Selections
of Orchids for flowering at Christmas will be given in a future
issue. — Orchidist.

NOTES BY THE WAY.

Some Fine Conifers.

Garden wanderings lose their charm to a large extent when the
thermometer registers several degrees of frost and the snow and sleet are
being driven wildly about by a biting wind. And even when these
conditions are varied by thick fogs or soaking rains the conditions are
little more tempting. It is easy enough to find inspiration when the
spring sunshine illuminates the garden or the mellow breath of
summer is upon it, but in autumn it is impossible, We must live now
on memory and hope — on recollections of the past and anticipations of
the future.

In a retrospective survey of gardens visited during the past summer
my thoughts rest on one where a noble collection of Conifers graces
the surroundings of a pleasant Sussex residence. It is near East
Grinstead, on the road running from Purley Corner through the beautiful
valley between the Caterham hills, past Riddlesdown, Godstone, and
Blindley Heath, and so on to Felbridge. In the years that are past the
road was frequently traversed by gentlemen driving down from town,
but it is left now to the holiday seekers and the cyclists. The latter

revel in its easy gradients and smooth surface more than in its richness
of wayside gardens and the charming views which open out from it,
for even if they have nowhere in particular to go they are always in a
desperate hurry to get there, and have no time to waste on trifles.

Felbridge Place lies on the right hand, a mile or two on the London
side of Bast Grinstead. The house commands delightful views, and gives
one fresh impressions even after he has seen, as he may have thought,
every variety of scenery which this beautiful corner of England
possesses. Truly Grinstead has a charm all its own. The town itself
presents attractions foreign to most country places of its size, and it
would be easy for any fortunate individual who had nothing to do but
rove during the golden days to pass more than one pleasant week in its
gardens and byeways. _

Mr. Gatty, the owner of Felbridge Place, has strong scientific leanings.
This, of course, is vague for those to whom science represents more than
some formidable abstract thing, and who ask for details, but it is all I
know. Let it suffice to say that his studies, whatever they may be, are
not so absorbing as to prevent him appreciating the merits and beauties
of the very fine collection of Conifers which surround his house. I
understand that his knowledge of the tribe is no limited one, but that
he is fully capable of judging whether there is anything of special value
amongst his trees. To give general readers an opportunity of forming
an opinion I will proceed to name some of the specimens and to indicate
their altitudes.

One of the first trees to be observed and admired is a noble specimen
of the Silver Fir, about 90 feet high and 9 feet In girth. Unfortunately
I have to give approximate figures, and cannot say with certainty how
this specimen would compare with the one at Dropmore. In Mr. Cecil
Bartlett’s paper on the Dropmore Conifers, published in the Journal on
April 20th this year, he gives the height of a Silver Fir as 94 feet,
and the girth as 8 feet 6 inches. I should say that these trees must be
as near twin specimens as it is possible to find, and a splendid pair they
are. Dr. Gatty’s tree is perfect in every way, and measured by the
simple system adopted by Mr. Harding at Orton seems to excel the
Dropmore tree in girth if not in height.

A Wellingtonia, 70 feet high, also attracts attention. This is a source
of special pride to the gardener, Mr. Jupp, for he planted it himself, a
bantling inches high, in a thumb pot thirty years ago. While the
planter has been growing grey the tree has been gaining rapidly in
vigour and beauty. It is an almost faultless specimen as to shape,' and
is a great ornament to the grounds. Mr. Bartlett describes one of the
Dropmore Wellingtonias, which was planted about six years before the
Felbridge one, as being 67 feet high and 11 feet 3 inches in girth, and a
second, planted in 1862 or just about the same time as Mr. Gatty’s tree,
as 62 feet high and 12 feet in girth. So far as an estimate tells us the
Sussex tree is taller than either, and has certainly made more rapid
growth. _

Another very fine tree is Taxodium sempervirens, 60 to 65 feet high,
29 feet in girth, and it would have been more remarkable but for losing
14 or 15 feet of its top in a gale of wind. Abies Douglasi is a handsome
specimen, but it would appear to be but a babe beside the marvellous
Dropmore tree, which is said to be upwards of 120 feet high, the
branches sweeping the ground at a diameter of 64 feet. There is
obviously no comparison here, so I must pass on to Cedrus deodara.
The height of this is put down at 75 feet, while one at Dropmore is
given as 72 feet high, wdiich means another wonderfully close struggle
for supremacy. The Felbridge specimen is in every respect a note¬
worthy one, and it would be interesting to have its height carefully taken
and supplied. _

This point of exact measurement is emphasized when w'e come to
Tinus insignis, for in my notebook I have the altitude jotted down as
90 feet, and on turning to Mr. Bartlett’s paper I find, curiously enough,
that he quotes a tree as being exactly the same height at Dropmore.
Which of the two is the finer is doubtful ; they are both splendid
specimens. That at Felbridge Place spreads like a huge forest tree.
Another noble giant is Abies Noidmanniana, which is 80 feet hi„h, of
perfect shape, being even from top to bottom, and it was full of cones.
In the notes on the Dropmore collection this is classed with others as
“ good and healthy,” but the altitude is not stated. Other fine Pines
are P. nobilis, 85 feet high, and Monticola, 50 to 55 feet and full of
cones. P. cembra, P. Bentbamiana, and P. Pinsapo run from 30 to
35 feet, P. Bentbamiana is therefore well beaten by the Dropmore
tree, which is quoted at 56 feet, and must be a wonderful object.

There is no such Araucaria imbricata at Felbridge as the gigantic
70 feet tree at Dropmore, the largest hardly exceeding 40 feet, but it is
a very beautiful specimen, its contour being perfect. Nor is Abits
Albertiana so fine, its altitude being about 40 feet as against 60 feet in
the case of the tree under Mr. Herrin’s charge. A. Hookeriana, though
a small tree, is extremely beautiful, its glaucous foliage being very
distinct and prominent. A. grandis again is not more than 40 feet, and
A. concolor will not grow at all, but A. nobilis glauca towers up 75 feet
or more, and is a truly noble tree.

November 23, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

465

Mr. Bartlett contents himself with saying in reference to Cryptomeria
japonica that there are some fine specimens of good shape and with
branches to the ground, Mr. Gatty boasts a tree 45 feet high. The
branches are rooting and young shoots springing up. Cupressus
Lawsoniana erecta viridis, 30 feet high and in splendid colour, is also
noteworthy. _

Laurels and Rhododendrons thrive with wonderful luxuriance at
Felbridge Place, and there are many splendid Beeches'and Oaks in the
park. It is without doubt one of the most interesting of what I may
term the tree places in the country. The gardens are well managed
throughout, but my object when commencing these notes was to refer
only to the Conifers. What I have said will enable skilled readers to
see for themselves that Mr. Gatty’s Conifers are capable of providing a
rich source of pleasure for every tree lover. — W. P. Weight.

National Rose Society.

We are informed that the annual meeting of the National Rose
Society will be held at the Horticultural Club Rooms, Hotel Windsor,
Victoria Street, Westminster, on Thursday, December 7th, at three
o’clock ; the Rev. W. Wilks, Secretary of the Royal Horticultural Society,
will take the chair. The annual dinner will be held at the same place
on the same day at 6 p.m. The dates fixed for the Exhibitions in 1894
are : — The Southern Exhibition, June 27th, at Windsor ; Metropolitan
Exhibition, Crystal Palace, July 7th; Northern Exhibition at Halifax,
July 19th,

Mr. Mawley’s Analysis.

“Bucks” (page 440) reminds me of the little street boys who tie
crackers to my hall door and then run away — they amuse themselves,
don’t hurt me, and remain in the obscurity they prefer, and to which
their methods are best suited ! I am sure Mr. Mawley will feel as proud
of his champion as I feel deeply injured by tnis anonymous gentleman’s
“ tremendous onslaught ” on me.

Without wishing to detract one iota from Mr. Mawley’s services to
the N.R.S., which in fact I have never brought into question, I must
notice the last paragraph of “ Bucks’ ” communication ; and in comment
thereon, say that the N.R.S. was formed in 1876, and 1 joined the Society
in 1878, so that the words subsequent to “long years” are nonsense.

Very evidently not to be known by “ Bucks” is to be unknown ! —
Charles J, Grahame, Croydon.

[We suspect that Mr. Mawley could give a different version of
Mr. Grahame’s work in conneetion with the N.R.S. to that which seems
to be entertained by “ Bucks.”]

The Rose in 1893.

I HAVE now grown Roses for more than a quarter of a century. I
have visited most of the Rose gardens in the kingdom, and have had as
Secretary of the National Rose Society from year to year much inter¬
course with the principal Rose growers both amateur and professional.
I have heard various and contradictory reports as to the eondition of the
plants and flowers, but never during all that time have I heard from
growers so general a condemnation of the season (if I except the northern
men) as in the present year of 1893. This was all the more regretahle,
as early in the year the prospects were bright, and the hopes of
exhibitors proportionately elated.

The wood had been fairly well ripened in the autumn, the winter
had not been very severe ; January and February preserved their normal
character, and at the time of pruning wood was strong and the buds
promising ; but from that time all was changed. We had no April
showers, and a period of droughtiunexampled I believe in our climate set
in. From March to July, a period of four months, we had not in this
locality 1 inch of rain, and consequently no good Rose season could be
anticipated : the result of the shows proved this to be true. The southern
grower was handicapped, the sub-tropical character of the season had
driven the flowers into bloom long before their proper time, and con¬
sequently those varieties which bloom early were pretty well out of the
field ; while from the earlier districts nothing was to be seen. There
can be no question that it was a hard time for amateurs especially. The
nurseryman has perhaps many places differing in soil and situation, and
as Roses are worked on various kinds of stocks, in a season like the
present if he cannot cut from one portion of his grounds he can from
another. The amateur on the other hand is confined to one small piece
of ground on which he is obliged to grow his Roses year after year, and
I often wonder that under such circumstances he is able to show as well
as he does. In a season like the past one the small amateur fared
especially badly. The characteristics of the year were drought, abund¬
ance of sunshine and heat ; day after day as the Rose exhibition
season approached the skies were absolutely cloudless, and a brilliant
semi-tropical sun shed its influence all around. What could, then, the
small amateur with his few plants hope to do ? It was no wonder that
his exhibits generally were below the average, and that even the larger

amateurs had to confess that most of their flowers were not worthy of
their reputation. There were, of course, the usual differences of opinion
as to the effects of the season. While some suffered severely from
aphides and orange fungus others were comparatively free. I did not see
one of the former in my Rose garden, while others said their plants were
smothered with them. Orange fungus, which has in some years almost
denuded my trees in July, was but little seen, while mildew, which so
disfigures the Rose garden if it does nothing else, did not appear until
late, when its ill effects were comparatively trifling.

It was a year, however, in which the northern part of the kingdom
had it all its own way. Messrs. Harkness & Son of Bedale, Yorkshire,
again achieved what no other firm has ever done, namely the winning of
the two challenge trophies in the same year. To the north, too, went
the amateurs’ challenge trophy, and it was won by a young amateur,
Mr. A. Whitton, a near neighbour of Messrs. Harkness. Messrs. Mack
of Catterick, Croll of Dundee, and Cocker & Sons of Aberdeen were
also forward in the race, the fact being that while in the south we
were pretty well frizzled, the north and Scotland had been enjoying
refreshing rains and cooler weather. Although the Messrs. Harkness
suceeededin carrying off the jubilee trophy at Worksop, they were run
very hard by Messrs. Alex, Dickson & Sons of Newtownards, a remark¬
able feat when we recollect they had to bring their flowers some miles
the other side of Belfast, across the Channel, and to take them a long
railway cross country journey to Worksop — a striking example for
those who think it necessary to postpone the cutting of their flowers
to the very last moment. There was one very remarkable feature
which has been already commented upon by my good friend
“ W. R. Raillem,” who always writes instructively, and that was
the behaviour of the darker Roses in such a season. We
have always been accustomed to regard continuous sunshine
as seriously injurious to their beauty. The edges of the petals become
disfigured, the colour is taken out of them, and they look as if scorched ;
indeed, we generally speak of them when in this condition as being
burned. How came it, then, that when weeks of bright sunny days
prevailed this calamity did not take place ? Such flowers as Louis Van
Houtte, Reynolds Hole, and Camille de Rohan, Prince Arthur, Duke of
Edinburgh, Horace Vernet, and others were never cleaner or brighter
than in the past season — I speak not of those which were carefully
covered over, but of those growing in the open unshaded. There must
be something else than sunlight to account for this ! It may, indeed,
have been said to have been a Horace Vernet year, for never was this
grand flower more generally exhibited in good form than in this year,
when its raiser was taken away from us. Neither, on the other hand,
as we might have supposed, were the light Roses remarkably good. Her
Majesty, for instance, which had been so well shown in 1892 ; Mrs. John
Laing, the best of the late Mr. Henry Bennett’s Roses ; Mods. Noman,
La France, and others were not conspicuous for their superior form,
while the earlier flowering varieties were all over before the exhibition
time came on.

Although three gold medals were awarded by the N.R.S. for new
Roses, there never was a greater scarcity in this class ; the foreign
raisers seem to have expended all their energies in the varieties they
have already given us, and neither in the class of Hybrid Perpetuals or
Teas does there seem to be anything amongst the Roses of 1891 worth
reeording. Two Hybrid Teas have made their appearance, and one of
them is highly spoken of as an exhibition Rose, and one (Caroline
Testout) has been praised by such good authorities as the Rev. J. H.
Pemberton and Mr. Ben Cant. The other (Gustave Resris) is a charming
buttonhole Rose, in which its chief value consists. The two exhibition
Roses to which the gold medals were awarded came from the North of
Ireland, and there is every reason to believe that Marchioness of
Londonderry (white) and Mrs. Sharman Craw'ford (bright pink, some¬
thing of the shade of colour of Madame Gabriel Luizet) will keep up
the reputation of the raisers, Messrs. Alex. Dickson & Son of New¬
townards, who have already given to us such fine Roses as Earl of
Dufferin, Margaret Dickson, Marchioness of Dufferin, and Ethel
Brownlow. The other certificated Rose was Turner’s Crimson Rambler,
a garden Rose from Japan, and likely to be most valuable for decorative
purposes. Charles Gater (Paul & Sons) is a red Rose of great brightness,
but somewhat small to suit present tastes. Harkness’ Merrie England,
the best of all striped H.P.’s, was not shown in as good form as in 1892.
It seems, however, to be tolerably constant, and if so will be a very
great addition to our gardens.— D., Deal.

(To be continued.)

THE KEEPING OF APPLES.

With the exception of the real late keepers, Bramley’s Seedling,
Northern Greening, French Crab, and others of a hard nature, it seems
doubtful whether any of our best varieties of Apples could this winter
be induced to keep long. If the fruits, because of the long drought,
have so marked a deficiency of juiciness or sap in them that they so
soon become dry and woody it would be impossible by any method of
keeping almost to replace what Nature has not furnished. But that
our ordinary methods of keeping Apples ihrough the winter are far
from being the best there can be no doubt. We exhaust our fruits far
too much by keeping them in a comparatively dry atmosphere, where
all the surroundings are absorbent, and not infrequently the tempera¬
ture varies from week to week fully several degrees. The practice of
burying Apples in tubs in the earth is doubtless a good one, but then
fruit in such case is so difficult of access. On the other hand, the

466

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 23, 1893,

amount of exposure to moisture that Apples will beneficially endure is
astonishing. Who that has been raking leaves beneath Apple trees
some two months perhaps after the crop has been gathered has not
found some fruit buried in the leafage that are as plump and fresh as
if just gathered i How admirable do the surroundings seem to suit
Apples in such a case.

Has anyone ever tried the stacking of Apples in leaves outdoors ? A
hard floor beneath trees is selected, a bed made up 10 inches high with
solid pieces of turf, the floor thinly littered with clean Elm leaves, then
on that a layer of Apples, then a layer of leaves very thin, further layers
of fruit and leaves, keeping the top into ridge fashion, covering ail with
6 inches of leaves, and over all some straw mats to throw off the rain.
Into such a pit no ordinary frost could enter, and during very severe
weather a thick coating of litter laid over all would exclude the hardest
frost. Can anyone doubt but that from out of such a stack Apples
would come as fresh as possible, even at the end of the winter, whilst
the plan would cost next to nothing ? Of course only picked fruits of
good medium size should be so preserved. — A, D,

I HAVE read with interest Mr. Iggulden’s article (page 437) as to the
results of Apple culture this season, and I endorse most of what he
says respecting the non-keeping of the fruit. Most varieties are over
fully a month before their time, but it must be borne in mind that
they were ripe for quite that period before their usual time.

Our experience as to varieties seems to have been very similar to
Mr. Iggulden’s. Beauty of Kent, however, we do not expect to keep
after the end of November in ordinary seasons, but Manks Codlin is
still in good condition with us, and this variety I have noticed usually
keeps longer from our heavy soil than from others. Welington (Dume-
low’s Seedling), Alfriston, and Lane’s Prince Albert are also keeping
well at present, as also are most of the late desserts. Amongst the
midseason varieties King of Pippins is keeping well.

It was quite expected that fruit would not keep well owing to the
great heat, and there were many cases of actual sunburn, the same as
they experience in California. The dry hot period, being followed by
a spell of wet immediately before the ripening, was undoubtedly the
cause of the spots and the rapid decay of the fruit. I should think
it probable that the sudden flow of sap when the fruit was almost
rips caused the rupture of some of the cellular tissues, thus setting
up fermentation and decay in the parts affected.

As to the American varieties, these have with us done better than
ever we have known them before. Washington, Melon, Mother, and
King of Tomkins County, have all done remarkably well. I cannot,
however, speak of Newtown Pippin, as we long since gave up growing
it as worthless in this country. It does not, however, at all follow
that it would be wise to plant these varieties extensively ; in fact I
consider that it would be the greatest folly to do so, as probably another
generation will pass before we experience a similar season. Therefore,
let us not be alarmed by the exceptional circumstances of the past
extraordinary summer, but continue to plant those varieties which
experience of years has taught us to be the most reliable for giving an
average crop.

I quite agree with Mr. Iggulden that we are now in some danger of
running to the extreme of planting too few varieties. Unfavourable as
the season has been, and probably disastrous to some growers, yet there
are many others who have done well. I was looking over some planta¬
tions in our county (Sussex) the other day where bush Apples are grown
in large numbers, and principally of early varieties, and the proprietor
spoke of being well satisfied with the result of this year’s operations.
He sent his fruit to market early and realised good prices. — Joseph
Cheal.J _

Newtown Pippin, Sutton Beauty, Peck’s Pleasant, Mother, Meloa,
Washington, King of Tomkins County, Buckingham, Monmouth Pippin,
Winter Peach, Wagener are all in good condition, and seem likely to
keep. English Apples are in very bad condition. — T. Francis Rivers.

FLORAL NOMENCLATURE — CURIOUS SPELLING OF

NAMES.

I CANNOT quite understand on what grounds “ S. W. F.” (page 439)
bases his criticism of my remarks on this subject (page 399). hIs first
sentence implies that I had recommended gardeners to make themselves
acquainted with Latin, Greek, and French, whereas I never even hinted
at such a thing, knowing how utterly impossible the task would be.
The greater number of the youths who take to gardening know little or
nothing of these languages at the time of their leaving school, and
when they get to work there is not much time left to devote to them
after the more urgent studies have received attention, even had they
inclination and capacity for acquiring them. This being so, pronuncia¬
tion and spelling will, no doubt, remain faulty, as your correspondent
remarks, and certainly will this be the case when either are required
on the “ spur of the moment but as writing labels for home use or
to place on exhibits is, or ought to be, undertaken deliberately, I repeat
there is no necessity whatever that the least mistake in spelling should
occur, for the simple reason that the reliable guides named in my letter
are easily procured.

, With regard to my “ list of errors,” which it appears to “ S. W. F.”
that most have arisen “ from an endeavour to copy illegible labels,” it
IS not quite clear whether he means that I or the exhibitors had

“ endeavoured to copy.” 1, however, carefully copied the card or paper
labels attached to the exhibits, which labels had doubtless been written
for the occasion. The exhibitors ought to have copied a good cata¬
logue.

I quite agree with your correspondent that the mastery of these
long names is one of the gardener’s hardest tasks, and being one of
them, and not a classical scholar, I can speak from experience. 1 also
join with him in respecting those who have overcome the attendant
difficulties ; but the gardener who exhibits such spelling as the speci¬
mens I gave at page 399 deserves — well, to have his attention drawn
to it, for I am convinced that It arises from nothing else than negli¬
gence. The careful man who has a doubt will find ways and means to
satisfy himself about it. — West Anglia.

FEEDING FRUIT TREES DURING AUTUMN AND

WINTER.

I quite agree with Mr. Dunkin, page 349, that not nearly enough
attention is paid to the roots of trees after the fruit has been gathered.
Very often we experience a long spell of dry weather during September
and October. How can the buds for next year’s supply of fruit be in
a fit condition to give a full crop of the finest fruit if the roots are not
supplied with the proper nutriment ?

Directly the fruit is gathered from any kind of wall tree I have the
soil for several feet away from the wall thoroughly soaked with clear
water. All kinds of hardy fruit except Peaches, Nectarines, and Cherries
receive much benefit from a copious supply of liquid manure during the
winter. Several Apple trees fifteen years planted produce good crops
of fruit now that hardly bore at all previous to the stimulant being
given them. To no other cause do I attribute the improvement in these
trees, but it is right also to record a failure.

The soil here is heavy and retentive. The application of liquid
manure to the roots of Warner’s King Apple during the winter caused
the fruit the following season to be hollow in the centre. Since we
ceased giving the winter stimulant we have had no hollow fruit, though
it is smaller. The fruit perhaps does not attain the same size as previously,
but it is sound, and that is of more consequence. I do not say the same
defect would be visible in light soil. If the weather of February is dry
I usually well soak the soil about the trees then. To a tree of the age
stated we give not less than 80 gallons of liquid manure direct from the
farmyard tank. A mere surface watering does little if any good. —
E. Molyneux, Swanmore Park, HaMs.

ROYAL METEOROLOGICAL SOCIETY^

The first meeting of this Society for the present session was held on
Wednesday evening the 15th inst., at the Institution of Civil Engineers,
Great George Street, Westminster, Dr, C. Theodore Williams, President,
in the chair. Twenty-three new Fellows were elected.

Mr, F. J. Brodie, F.R.Met.Soc., read a paper on “The Great
Drought of 1893, and its Attendant Meteorological Phenomena.” The
author confined his investigation to the weather of the four months
March to J une, during which period the absence of rain was phenomenal ;
barometric pressure was greatly in excess of the average, temperature
was high, with a large diurnal range, and the duration of sunshine was
in many places the longest on record. The mean temperature over
England was about 4° above the average. Along the south and south¬
west coasts the sunshine was between 50 and 60 per cent, of the possible
duration. The rainfall was less than half the average amount over the
southern and eastern parts of England, the extreme south of Ireland
and a portion of Durham and Northumberland, while over the southern
counties of England generally the fall amounted to less than one-third
of the average. The smallest number of days with rain was at the North
Foreland, where there were only eighteen.

Mr. W. Marriott, F.R.Met.Soc,, gave an account of the “ Thunder
and Hailstorms ” which occurred over England and the south of Scot¬
land on July 8th, 1893, Thunderstorms were very numerous on that
day, and in many instances were accompanied by terrific hailstorms and
squalls of wind. It was during one of these squalls that a pleasure boat
was capsized off Skegness, twenty-nine persons being drowned. About
noon a thunderstorm, accompanied by heavy hail and a violent squall of
wind passed over Dumfries and along the valley of the Nith. Many of
the hailstones measured from 1 inch to U inch in length. At the same
hour a similar storm occurred at Peterborough, From about 2 until
10 P.M. there was a succession of thunderstorms over the north-east of
England and south-east of Scotland, and at many places it was reported
that the thunderstorms were continuous for nine hours. Two storms
were remarkable for the immense hailstones which fell during their
prevalence over Harrogate and Richmond in Yorkshire. The hailstones
were 4 and 5 inches in circumference, and some as much as 3 inches in
diameter. Great damage was done by these storms, all windows and
glass facing the direction from which the storm came being broken. It is
computed that within a radius of five miles of Harrogate not less than
100,000 panes of glass were broken, the extent of the damage being
estimated at about £3000, The thunderstorms in the northern part of
the country travelled generally in a north-north-westerly direction at
the rate of about twenty miles an hour. They appear to have taken the
path of least resistance, and consequently passed over low ground and
along river valleys and the seacoast. Several storms seem to have
followed each other along the same track.

Norember 23, 1833. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

467

Events of the Week. — Apart from the meeting of the Com¬
mittees of the Royal Horticultural Society at the Drill Hall, James
Street, S.W., on Tuesday, the 28th, but few events of horticultural
interest will take place in the metropolis during the ensuing week.
The Royal Botanic Society will hold a meeting at the Gardens, Regent’s
Park, on the 25th inst., and the annual dinner of the National Chrys¬
anthemum Society is announced to take place at Anderton’s Hotel, Fleet
Street, on the 30th inst.

- The Weather in London. — Since publishing our last issue

some stormy weather has been experienced in the metropolitan area,
as in other parts of the country. A gale of wind, accompanied with
rain and snow, occurred on Saturday night, snow continuing to fall
more or less the greater part of Sunday. It soon disappeared,
however, but much damage has been done in some localities. Monday
was fine, and the same may be said of Tuesday. Wednesday opened
dull but dry, and at the time of going to press it is rather cold.

- Weather in the North. — The beginning of the past week

from the llth was dull, with rain on the evening of the 16th and the
following morning. The violent northerly gale of Saturday morning
reached its height about 2 a.m. Roads and railway lines were blocked
with fallen wood, and damage was done to buildings and farmyards.
In the woods the havoc is terrific. The past two days have been cold
and bright, and 9° of frost are registered this morning (2l8t), with dense
hoar frost. In the Blair Drummond Policies the wreckage is almost
indescribable. Grand old trees, which have more than a local name,
lie in hundreds uprooted, or with their great stems snapped at various
heights. Oaks, Beeches, Larch, and Spruce Firs seems to have suffered
most, and the state of the fine old grounds is most lamentable. On
the adjoining estate of Lanrick half the woods are said to be down.
— B. D., Perthshire .

- Royal Horticultural Society. — The next fruit and floral

meeting of the Society will take place in the Drill Hall, James Street,
V'’ictoria Street, Westminster, on Tuesday, November 28th, when special
prizes will be offered for groups of Chrysanthemums naturally grown.
At three o’clock Mr. T. Grasp, F.R.H.S.,iwill deliver a lecture on “ Date¬
keeping Grapes,”

- Horticultural Club. — The usual monthly dinner and

conversazione took place last week. There were present Messrs. John
Lee, Harry J. Veitch, J. S. Cousen, C, T. Druery, George Paul, T. W.
Girdleston, and others. The discussion was on Gannas, and was opened
with a very able and instructive paper by Mr. George Paul, in which
the history and the mode of culture were exhaustively stated. An
animated and interesting discussion, in which most of the members
present took part, followed, and a cordial vote of thanks was awarded
to Mr. Paul. Mr. Charles Turner contributed some fine dishes of Apples
and the Chrysanthemum blooms for the decoration of the table,

- Ranunculus Lyalli. — This is the beautiful New Zealand

white-flowered Buttercup which has tantalised English horticulturists
for the last twenty years at least. Those who have seen it growing
wild on the mountains in New Zealand, and have cultivated it in the
gardens there, are unable to understand how it can fail to thrive in
English gardens. Roughly described, remarks Mr. W, Watson of Kew,
in the “ Garden and Forest,” R. Lyalli is as effective and beautiful in
flower as the white Anemone japonica, growing as high, flowering as
freely, and behaving in the same satisfactory manner in New Zealand
as that species does with us. In foliage it is even more effective than
the Anemone, the leaves being peltate, rich deep green, and from 8 to
12 inches in diameter. The roots are tuberous. Failure with this plant
in England is not due to cold, nor do I think excessive heat in summer
hurts it. There is, however, some condition, some peculiar hitch which
we cannot get over if we attempt to grow the plant out of doors. We
have flowered it in pots in a cool Orchid house at Kew, but it was weak,
and Mr. Moore of Glasnevin can grow it and flower it in a cold frame
facing north, the plants being in pots, stood in shallow pans of water.
At Reading, Mr. Bartholomew has grown it fairly well in an open
border.

- Stephanotis floribunda FRUiTiNet. — Mr. Robt. Wastling,

market gardener, Beverley, has a young plant of Stephanotis floribunda
bearing a fine fruit. Should any persons in the neighbourhood be
sufficiently interested to give a call, Mr. Wastling would, I am sure, be
very pleased to allow them to see it. — George Swailes, Beverley,
East Yorhs.

- - Maize Maturing in Wales. — Mr. F. C. S. Brenton, Rose

Cottage, Llantwit Vardre, Pontypridd, writes: — “It may be worthy of
your notice that I have this year grown several stalks of Indian Corn
with fully developed cobs. Some of the stalks were 8 feet, 9 feet, and
10 feet high. I am told that no similar growth of Indian Corn has ever
been seen in this neighbourhood.”

- The National Amateur Gardeners’ Association. — We

understand that the annual dinner of this Association has been fixed
to take place on Thursday, December 14th, 1893, in the Queen’s Salon,
Holborn Restaurant, at seven o’clock p.m. The medals, prizes, and
certificates won during the year will be presented on this occasion.
Mr. D. B. Crane, 4, Woodview Terrace, Archway Road, Highgate, N., is
the Hon. Secretary.

- Gardening Appointments. — Mr. Walter Gibson leaves

Steventon Manor Gardens, Whitc’aurch, Hants, on the 30th inst. for
Sandown, Isle of Wight, as a grower of produce for market. Mr.
W. Frost, gardener to W. Palmer, Esq , Westfield, Reading, has been
appointed Mr. Gibson’s successor at Steventon. Mr. J. C. Anderson,
formerly of Metham Hall, Howden. has been appointed to the charge of
the gardens at Saltmarshe Hall, Howden,

- Publications Received. — We have to acknowledge the

receipt of the following publications : — The second part of the “ Transac¬
tions of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society ” for the year 1892,
from the press of the Society at Boston, U.S.A. The report of the
Canadian Department of Agriculture regarding experiments on Grasses,
conducted at their farm at Ottawa. The November number of the
“ Botanical Magazine,” published by L. Reeve & Co., Henrietta Street
Covent Garden.

- Tadcaster Paxton Society. — At the weekly meeting, held

last Thursday evening, November 16th, a most excellent paper was
read by Mr. Callum, B.A. The subject taken was “ Efforts of Plants
for Self-Preservation,” illustrated by blackboard drawings. The essayist
pourtrayed the hard battle many plants had to fight for existence ; also
described some of the peculiarities attending such plants as Sarra-
cenias, Nepenthes, Venus’ Flytrap, Sundew and others. A discussion
followed in which many of the members took part. A hearty vote of
thanks was passed to Mr. Callum for his most instructive paper. Mr.
H. J. Clayton of Grimston Park will read a paper on “ Hardy Fruit,” this
evening (Thursday), November 23rd.

- Canker in Fruit Trees. — This question now appears to be

within measurable distance of solution. Is Nectria ditissima the cause
or starting point of canker spots on the buds or spurs where it invariably
commences ? Or is it mites or insect life which cause the first rupture.
This is the only point left in the discussion of interest to me. I have
proved so far as my trees are concerned that I can cure canker by
dressings of insecticides and lime, and so far as practical use is con¬
cerned that is all I care for, and leaveothers to enjoy their own opinions.
I have now devoted about ten or twelve years to the subject, examining
trees in all localities available, and my firm belief is still that insects
start canker spots, and that fungus follows on the decaying wood. —
J. Hiam,

- Greenhouse Winter Flowers. — In a discussion that took

place last week between members of the Kingston Gardeners’ Association,
it was pleaded by a member that numerous descriptions of what are very
beautiful as well as most useful winter blooming plants', get very
much put in the background, and are indeed comparatively neglected in
some gardens, because so much of room and time is occupied with Chrys¬
anthemums, the which are so easily grown. Double and single Chinese
Primroses, Cyclamen, Bouvardias, Roman Hyacinths, Spirmas, Azaleas,
Poinsettias, Zonal Pelargoniums, Heaths, Salvias, Deuizias, and Carna¬
tions, are but a few of the many plants which should he
furnished in proper numbers in every good garden, whilst those more
highly favoured should always have some Cypripediums and other
easily grown Orchids. Even where there are no Chrysanthemums grown
it was shown that with due attention to the needs of plants for forcing
purposes a remarkable wealth of Dc.iterial was open to all. — D.

468

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 23, 1893.

- The Koyal Caledonian Horticultural Society.— It is

announced that the above Society will hold the shows for 1894 on
April 4th and 5th, July 11th and 12th, and September 12th and 13th,
Mr. Chas. Stewart is the Hon. Secretary.

- The Weather in the Isle op Wioht. — Mr. C. Orchard,

Bembridge, I. W., writes : — “Winter has set in here early. Saturday,
the 18th inst., opened with a very cold north-west wind and a
drizzling rain. Towards evening it increased to a gale of wind and a
drifting snowstorm. The thermometer registered 32°, and on the morn¬
ing of Sunday, the 19th, the whole island was covered with snow, some
of the drifts being 3 and 4 feet deep. The strong wind continued all
Sunday, but the temperature rose a little, causing the snow to disappear
by Monday morning. With the temperature so low, and the strong
wind blowing, played sad havoc with such plants as Veronicas,
Laurustinus, Fuchsias, Hydrangeas, and others that usually keep green
and gay with flowers here up till Christmas, to say nothing of Chrys¬
anthemums and other border flowers which are quite destroyed.”

- Our Country’s Charms. — A lady tourist sends the follow¬
ing note. “We had a delightful outing in September — Leamington,
Warwick, Kenilworth, Oxford, and Blenheim. Of all the sights that
struck me most was Ampelopsis Veitchi on everything and everywhere.
Warwick Castle is a marvel of loveliness, and the peacocks make such
a gleam of colour against and on the branches of the old trees. Blen¬
heim is overpowering in size ; the forest and ornamental trees and the
pleasant head gardener, Mr. Whillans, struck me most there, also the
extreme neatness of everything and the small force of men — we saw
just a few. A large house of tree Carnations, pink, white and Winter
Cheer charmed us. There are thirty-f our houses all full, yet last December
over £7000 worth of plants were sold out. We had Blenheim Orange
Apples in perfection. Those who have not seen Warwick, Blenheim,
and the old college gardens of Oxford should see them. I had no idea
there was such wealth of loveliness in England. Kenilworth is only
a ruin, but such a ruin that ‘Brother Jonathans’ come over in
swarms to see it.”

- The Queen’s Cottage, Kew. — Our excellent transatlantic

contemporary the “ Garden and Forest,” in the issue for November 8th,
contains a well executed illustration of the Queen’s Cottage at Kew,
which stands in the centre of some forty acres of enclosed land, and is
thickly planted with trees, and from which the public are excluded. It
stands on the south-west side of the Koyal Gardens, between them and
the Old Deer Park, Richmond, also Royal property. Portions of the
cottage grounds have evidently been tastefully laid out many years ago
and planted with choice shrubs and trees by some competent landscape
gardener. Even now, although the trees and shrubs were until recently
left entirely to themselves, the grounds are full of pretty effects and
delightful glimpses such as please the artist and lover of Nature. The
wilder part is crowded with Beech, Chestnut, Oak, Lime, and other
trees which, in places, rise straight out of a turf formed entirely of
Bluebells, a glorious picture in the springtime, while other parts
show, in tangled profusion, masses of Blackberry bushes. Brake and
other Ferns, Daffodils, Ragged Robin, and other dwellers in English
woods. The cottage was supposed to have been built for Queen Caroline,
wife of George III., “ who resided at Kew during at least three months
in every year, and made besides a stay of three days in every fortnight
at this his favourite spot.” The Queen, it appears, was an ardent
gardener.

- Planting. — Although it does but seem |to be reiterating oft-

told warnings, yet it ie frequently needful just as much as ever to
protest against the too common practice of planting everything too
deep. Use seems to be so much overlooked that whilst the natural
tendency of rooters to strike downwards, the essentials of good culture
render the keeping of them so near the surface as possible generally
desirable. This is specially the case with fruit trees and bushes, but it
applies to most things because we want, under modern conditions of
culture, to feed roots from the surface, whilst naturally they are induced
to strike deep down into the soil. There can be no greater error in
planting under any conditions than in burying the roots too deeply,
whilst the nearer the surface, relative to the capacity, to have the roots
covered with fine soil, the sooner do they become attached to the ground,
and the more healthful is the resultant growth. There are some cases,
especially where the soil is shallow or on stiff clay, practically to plant
on ^e surface, but it is difiScult always to make our practice fit in with
our knowledge of what is best. — A. D.

- WOOLTON Gardeners’ Society.— A meeting of the mem¬
bers of the above Society was held in the Mechanics’ Institute on
Thursday last, Mr. Carling presiding. Mr. J. Storey, Allerton Tower,
read an instructive paper on “ The Culture of Muscat of Alexandria and
Madresfield Court Grapes.” The propagation, pruning, training, dis¬
budding, thinning the fruit, temperature and ventilation at the different
periods of growth, watering, together with the formation of borders
and the most suitable structures in which they ought to be grown, are
fully dealt with. At the close an interesting discussion took place. —
R. P. R.

- AGATH.®A Ccelestis. — Blue flowers are proverbially scarce,

and as Agathma ccelestis yields these in large numbers, it is, remarks an
American contemporary, well worth cultivation for this reason alone.
It is sometimes called the Blue Marguerite, and the name is apt, for in
shape the flowers bear a strong resemblance to those of the common
Marguerite, or Parisian Daisy. But here the likeness ends, for the plants
are quite distinct in other particulars. The Agathrea is dwarf and
shrubby, seldom more than 12 inches high, and very neat and compact
in growth. The numerous leaves are small, rough to the touch, and of
a deep rich green. The flowers, proceeding singly from the base of the
leaves, are held erect above the foliage on slender naked stalks, the outer
florets bright blue, and the disc an intense yellow. The plant is almost
constantly in bloom out of doors in summer and under glass in winter.
Even when its flowers are not wanted in winter it still requires gentle
greenhouse warmth, since 3° or 4° of frost will kill it. Cuttings from
young branches root readily in spring, and when grown on in small
pots until mild weather they may be successfully used for bedding ;
and, again, if taken up carefully and potted early in autumn the same
plants will, as before remarked, continue to bloom all through the
winter and spring in the greenhouse.

- Birmingham and District Amateur Gardeners’ Asso¬
ciation. — On Wednesday, the 15th inst., Mr. Herbert Stone, F.L.S.,
delivered an illustrated paper, on “ Roots and their Functions,” before
the members of the above Association, assembled at the Temperance
Institute, Corporation Street. The chair was occupied by Mr. Leonard
Brierley, J.P. (one of the Vice-Presidents), who heartily congratulated
the Society on the exceptional progress it had made during the short
course of its existence. Mr. Stone described the parts of various roots,
their methods of pushing themselves through the soil, and of absorbing
nourishment from it ; and of the extraordinary property of the roots
to exude an acid which had the effect of rendering soluble inorganic
matter not usually soluble in water. He gave by means of the lime¬
light lantern specimens of the different classes of roots, and gave
figures to show the extraordinary amount of moisture that the plants
absorb in the course of their growing period. A vote of thanks to Mr.
Stone for his excellent paper, and to Mr. Leonard Brierley for presiding,
terminated the proceedings. Messrs. E. D. Clarke, Gosling, Chapman,
W. B. GriflSn, Rees, and W, H. Wilks exhibited Chrysanthemum blooms,
and awards were made accordingly. Those of the two former were
exceptionally fine. The next meeting will be held on December 6th,
when the President (Alderman Wm. White, J.P.) will deliver his
address.

- Cacao in Trinidad. — 'Mr. J. H. Hart, the Superintendent of

the Royal Botanic Gardens, Trinidad, has recently been successful in
transporting to Nicaragua a selection of the best varieties of Trinidad
“Cacao.” Cacao seed soon loses its vitality, and can only be safely
transported long distances by placing it in a suitable position to
germinate and grow on the voyage. On April 25th of this year, we
learn from “Nature,” Mr. Hart left Trinidad with a number of
specially prepared cases containing plants, and seeds planted on the day
of departure. The boxes in which the seeds were sown had not glass
roofs, but were strongly latticed and covered with a moveable sail-cloth
cover, which could be easily and rapidly fastened or unfastened, to give
light or to protect from wind, rain, and sun. A frame covered with
wire netting was fastened inside each case, so as to press upon the
surface of the soil to prevent it shifting and causing the seeds to be
disturbed. The seeds germinated ten days after planting, and on June
10th Mr. Hart reached his destination with more than 26,000 healthy
plants, which were successfully put out in nurseries. A number of
Cacao seeds were sown at Nicaragua to develop during the return
voyage, and upon arriving at Trinidad good healthy plants were obtained
from 98 per cent, of the seeds planted. These plants included two
species entirely new to Trinidad, and their introduction may eventually
prove of great benefit to the colony.

November 23, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

469

— We regret to have to announce the death of Monsieur Antoine
Besson, of Marseilles, on the 15th of this month. Monsieur Besson was
sixty-eight years of age. He was a Knight of the Legion of Honour,
and Vice-President of the Society of Horticulture and Botany,

- The Gale in Scotland. — Writing under date November 18th

Mr. K. P. Brotberston, Tynninghame, Prestonkirk, N.B., says : — “ We
have a fearful gale raging here, and great damage done to trees, both
deciduous and coniferous.”

- The East London Floeicultural Society, that has up

to now had to seek hither and thither for halls in which to make
displays, has at last found a habitat at the People’s Palace, which ought
to be permanent. The large establishment in the Mile End Road ought to
make itself the natural centre for all the amenities as well as the
realities of East London life. The flower shows are a move in the right
direction.

THE ORIGINAL HESSLE PEAR TREE.

I PROMISED to send you an account of the old original Hessle Pear
tree. As there has been so much dispute about the name of the Pear,
whether it should be Hessle or Hazel, I think when you have read this
note you will agree with me it should be the “ Hessle.”

The tree is situated close to my house, in the garden of Mr. Ripling-
ham, the owner. Mr. Riplingham’s father and I have had many a talk
about the tree. The family has been in the village for several genera¬
tions, some 300 years. From what I could gather from him it seems to
be supposed that the tree in its young state was brought over here by
the Flemings, people who came up the Humber for the purpose of
trading some 300 or 400 years ago. I have always said the tree could
not be less than 300 years old.

The old trunk, which was some 3 or 4 feet in diameter, blew down, or
at least the greater part of it, on the 1st day of August, 1890, It was
quite hollow and decayed, with a large wasp’s nest inside ; but about
16 inches from the old trunk there is a young tree which has sprung up,
no doubt a sucker from the original This young tree, 3 feet from the
ground, is 37 inches in circumference ; 6 feet from the ground it is
34J inches. When the old tree bore fruit as well as the young one I
compared the two, and could not tell one from the other. This proves
that the old tree must have been a seedling.

Some time ago I had a conversation with one of the oldest men in the
village. I said to him, “ Robert, do you know the old Pear tree ? ”
“Old Pear tree?” he repeated; “I should thmk I do. Why, I was
born close to it. I worked ior Mr. Riplingham’s grandfather. I can
remember the top of the tree blowing off one stormy night, and that
will be nearly eighty years ago. Why, it was an old tree then. Old
tree ! I should think I do,” and the poor old man’s eyes fairly glistened
with delight.

I have been trying to find out the period when the Flemings traded
in this neighbourhood. I wrote to Alderman Symon, the antiquarian
of Hull, and he says that in 1290, the eighteenth year of Edward L,
Toricius, a Fleming of York, was appointed to price the wine imported
into Hull and to gauge the same. I find the same also stated in the
History of Hull. So the Flemings must have been here at that time.
In the year 1300 King Edward 1. crossed over the Humber from Barton
in Lincolnshire to Hessle on his way to the north, there being no ferry
to Hull at that time. The first ferry from Lincolnshire to Hull was
begun in 1316. From these facts I should say that the Flemings would
often land at Hessle, and it is quite feasible, that they might have
brought the Hessle Pear, I cannot find out any more about the old tree.
— Edwin Lord, Hessle.

[We are obliged by this communication, Hessle is the name to which
this useful hardy Pear is entitled. M. Decaisne, a French authority,
thought the Pear was of German origin, and says he preferred using the
German name Haselnuss (hazelnut) to the French translation — Noisette.
The tree as a seedling fruited at Hessle is the Hetsle Pear.]

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

November 14th.

Scientific Committee. — Present: Dr. M. T. Masters (in the
chair) ; Mr. McLachlan, Dr. Bonavia, Rev. W. Wilks, Prof. Church,
Mr. Veitch, Prof. Muller, Prof. Green, Mr. Michael, and Rev. G,
Henslow, Hon. Sec.

Onions Diseased. — Mr, Massee reported as follows upon the samples
brought to the last meeting : — “ The Onions are attacked by a Botrytis,
the same species as the one described by Prof. Marshall H. Ward in
‘A Lily Disease’ (Ann. of Bot., vol. ii.). The bulbs cannot possibly be
saved now, the fungus having spent its active period on the leaves ; while
the hypbae are now passing into the bulb to form sclerotia. If the
foliage had been sprayed with a fungicide the mischief would have been
kept within bounds. The diseased Onions should be bvrnt and not
thrown on to the manure heap.”

Daffodil Bulb Diseased. — He also reported upon the specimen
brought by Mr. Wilks, that a saprophytic fungus was now present,
which had followed a disease induced by some other unascertainable
cause.

Pears Diseased. — Mr. Massee sent the following additional remarks

upon the fruit reported upon at the last meeting : — “ The fungus
attacking the Pears first appears upon the leaves, and from thence it
passes on to the fruit. The tree should have been sprayed with a fungi¬
cide previous to the appearance of bloom, and once or twice after
the fruit had set, Bordeaux mixture has been proved effective.” A
unanimous vote of thanks was given to Mr. Massee for his interesting
and valuable reports.

Job's Tears (^Coix lachryma, L.'). — Mr, McLachlan exhibited a
specimen of this Grass, grown in Devonshire in the open air. It is
remarkable for the stony involucres, often used as beads. Prof. Churchdrew
attention to another species, C. gigantea, Boxb., which is cultivated in
the Khasia hills, and elsewhere in Bengal. C. lachryma is not cultivated,
though the grain of wild plants is eaten. Prof. Church’s analysis of the
grain of C, gigantea shows that it contains 16-8 albuminoids, and 59'9
starch, &c., so that its “ nutrient value” is very high, being 90 per cent.
(“ Kew BuL,” 1888. p. 267.)

Sjjhceria Itobertsii. — Mr, James Veitch exhibited specimens of this
well known parasitic fungus of New Zealand issuing from the neck of a
large caterpillar (Hipialis virescens). It is called aweto or “ vegetable
caterpillar.” The latter frequents particularly, if not quite exclusively,
the Rata tree (Metrosideros robusta), and when the pupa burrows into
the ground at the foot of the tree, the spores of the fungus attack it,
the mycelium ramifying through the body, while the stem bearing the
sporiferous asci issues erect from between the folds in the neck of the
caterpillar.

Planorbis Shells Sjolit. — Mr. Wilson sent specimens split trans¬
versely, with the following observations : — “ The shells are deposited in
large numbers on the bent-down rushes at the water’s edge of one of
our ponds at Oakwood, Wisley. There are no signs of rats near. I
much wish to know what cuts them, whether beast or bird.” It was
suggested by Mr. Michael that if the shell lay half in water a severe
frost might possibly have effected it ; but they appeared to be quite
fresh shells Mr. M‘Lachlan suggested herons as having perhaps done
it. The cause of the peculiarity, however, was recognised generally as
obscure.

Winter Moth. — Mr. Wilson sent the following observations on this
insect : — “ On tbe 3rd of this month there were fifty-four females on
the greased bands on our fruit trees at Oakwood. They do not usually
appear so early with us. Great quantities of both females and males
have been caught since the above date. Perhaps the wood and ponds
are attractive to them. We have so few at Weybridge that it is not
worth while to band the trees.”

Clitoria Ternatea, peloric, — Dr. Bonavia showed photographs and a
coloured drawing (by a native) of this plant from India, illustrating
transitions from the normal “ Pea-like ” blossom to the regular or peloric
condition, much resembling a Periwinkle. The colour is a bright blue.
It appears to be not uncommon in this species.

Casuarina dimorphic. — Dr. Masters exhibited a specimen received
from Baron Von Muller, in which a portion had developed sharp-pointed
leaves exactly similar to the pointed-leaved form of Juniperus, which is
often dimorphic in the same way. Mr. Henslow mentioned that these
changes are paralleled by the Thuja-leaved forms of Veronica, which
grow at great altitudes in New Zealand, and observed that analogies
seemed to suggest varying degrees of drought or moisture as likely to
be the direct cause of the different kinds, respectively.

Wheat-eared Sweet William. — Dr. Masters also showed a specimen
of this well-known malformation, in which while the flowers are sup¬
pressed, the small bracts at the base become multiplied excessively.
Mr. Veitch observed that it is very common and difficult to eradicate.
No cause could be suggested for its occurrence.

Canna, Madame Crozy. — Dr. Masters observed that it has been stated
that this variety of Ganna was really a very old form, having been
figured in Loddiges’ Cabinet, No. 449 ; but, as he pointed out, though the
colours were similar, the petals having a yellow rim, the size was very
different, the modern form very probably having originated from that
older variety.

Germinating Cocoa-nut. — Dr. Masters showed a drawing of the
globular cotyledon developed within the cavity and applied against the
edible endosperm. With reference to its power of secreting a ferment
to digest the food. Prof. Green remarked that he had not succeeded in
isolating the ferment : but the epidermis of the cotyledon was quite of
the character suggesting the presence of one. He noticed a fatty acid
present, apparently indicating reactions produced by some ferment.

Protests at Shows.

I THINK exhibitors in many cases do not properly understand
on what grounds a protest can be successful. It is not intended as a
means of securing a revision of the Judge’s award in matters of mere
opinion or pointing, but merely as a safeguard against fraud, non-com¬
pliance with the terms of the schedule, questions as to distinctness or
otherwise of varieties, or anything of an unexpected nature not within
the knowledge of the Judge. — Secretary.

470

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Noyember 23, 1893.

Chrysanthemum Lord Rosebery.

New incurved Chrysanthemums are not so numerous as those of the
Japanese type, and therefore when a variety of merit is brought forward
it is generally welcomed. Mr. Robert Owen, Castle Hill Nursery,
Maidenhead, has on many occasions raised and introduced some good
incurved varieties, as well as others, and one of his latest is Lord Rose¬
bery, figured in the illustration (fig. 68). It is an English-raised
seedling. An award of merit was adjudged for it when exhibited by
Mr, Owen at the meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society on Novem¬
ber 14th. It has also been certificated at Birmingham. In colour the
flower somewhat resembles Miss Violet Tomlin, being bright violet
purple, passing to purplish rose with lilac tips ; but it is much larger
than the variety mentioned, and when well grown will prove a decided
acquisition for exhibition purposes. The plant is a moderately vigorous
grower, and has very distinct foliage. The bloom from which the
engraving has been prepared was grown by Mr. Owen, who informs
us that the variety will be distributed next year.

Grassendale Show.

The handsome silver cup, valued at 10 guineas, and presented by the
President (A. L. Jones, Esq., Oatlands, Aigburth), to be won twice in
succession or .three times in all, has been secured, as last year, by Mr.
Donald Forbes, gardener to Alfred Holt. Esq., Crofton, Aigburth. with
twelve Japanese and twelve incurved. It will be remembered that Mr.
Forbes won with forty-eight cut blooms a week ago, and singular to
relate, was first in the same class last year. — R. P. R.

The N.C.S. and Its Certificates.

Although up to the date of the Aquarium Show the Floral Com¬
mittee of the N.C.S. had awarded twenty-six first-class certificates to
exhibitors of Chrysanthemums, “A Mummer” (page 444) may rest
assured that a very much larger number have narrowly escaped the
distinction. Having been intimately connected with the Society from
its commencement as a National one, and a frequent attendant at the
meetings of the Floral Committee, I can confidently say that never
has there been such a rigid system of selection as during the past year
or two, and it really seems as if the standard now required could
not be anyhow raised higher. The light anywhere in November, of
course, is a disadvantage, but it is consoling to find in the R.H.S.
report in last week’s Journal that the Floral Committee of that vener¬
able S jc-'ety are also sometimes placed under a similar disadvantage at
the Drill Hall. ^

Chrysanthemum Charles Davis,

As “Querist” (page 445) appears to know there are but few Chrysan¬
themums in which the colour can be termed fixed. A great deal depends
upon the bud selected, the age of the bloom, and in many cases whether
the plant is flowered in town or country. I have seen large numbers of
this variety during the past few weeks in almost every shade of yellow,
but its proper chromatic description is canary yellow suffused with a
warm rosy bronze. It is the variety that should be certificated, not any
particular tone of colour that the variety may assume ; and therefore if
presented by two different growers, one having small undeveloped
blooms of orthodox hue, and the other large well grown examples in
which the colour is less pronounced, the award must justly go to him
whose flowers exhibit the greatest skill in cultivation. — P.

Chrysanthemum Beauty op Exmouth.

This variety has not been seen this season in such magnificent form
as shown last year. The cause is not far to seek. Beauty of Exmouth
is a “ wet season” variety, and the past hot weather ripened the wood
too much. Most growers have overdone this variety by giving it the
same treatment accorded to the majority of the exhibition kinds. The
best blooms are produced from strong cuttings rooted in March and
plants topped in May, and giving at least 10-inch pois (inside diameter).
The object is to reduce the number of petals. The plants should be fed
well, especially soon after the buds are taken. Every effort should be
made to get what must be avoided in Mrs. Harman Payne and many
others — viz., coarseness. — W. J. G.

White Viviand Morel.

I MUCH regret having to differ from those eminent authorities men
tinned in last^ week’s Journal (page 445), who considered it would b
safe to exhibit blooms of white and pink Viviand Morel as distinc
varieties. Last spring I obtained plants of Mrs. W. R. Wells rather late
and everyone gave fine, deep pink blooms. My ordinary stock gav
pure white blooms from the earliest crown buds and pink blooms frou
terminals. If white and pink Viviand Morel can be exhibited as dis
tinct varieties, then the yellow Chas. Davis could be exhibited as “ Mrs
Brown ’ and the bronze as Chas. D.avis. When a white sport frou

f “ Mr. C. E. Shea.” the yellow spor

trom Mdlle Lacroix, or Chas. Davis from V. Morel, then, and not unti
tuen, should It be safe to show white and pink Viviand Morel as distinc

pink varieties give (not invariably) pure whiti
dH prominent examples I mention Etoili

nu-P whitP fl Devonshire. The early buds of Louise produo

pu.e white flowers, the later being pink. Mrs. E. G. Hill from^ crowi

buds ia crimson bronze, from terminal a beautiful clear yellow. Again,
many of the Japanese vary not only in colour but in shape or form as
well. It simply depends on the different times the buds are “ taken,” —
W. J. Godfrey,

Next Year’s Chrysanthemum Shows.

The Committee of the Kingston and Surbiton Chrysanthemum
Society announce that tbeir next year’s Show will take place on
November 13th and 14th. What is determined by the few larger
Shows such as Kingston and the National of course materially governs
the dates of the smaller Shows, of which there are so many within
twenty miles of London, and none of whom wish, if it can be avoided,
to conflict with the giants. If the National fixes upon the same dates
as Kingston, and it will probably be so, it will at least leave ten days-
in November that may largely be utilised by the smaller Shows prior to-
the 13th, whilst very many may perhaps think that a week later — the
20th and following days — rather too late.

The fixing of dates is very much of a lottery so far as securing the
best flowers is concerned ; but there can be no doubt but that a little
early gives better displays than a little late. The present year demon¬
strated that the Japs were never better than just at the time of the
leading shows, and that was fully six days earlier than next year’s
chief exhibitions may be fixed for. Six days is almost an age in the
keeping of fine blooms, especially if the weather be at all damp. Every
grower knows that retarding flowers that have reached the maximum
of development is far more difficult than is the pushing them on
in gentle warmth, if found needful. Of course the coming year’s dates
will be exceptionally late if the Kingston selection be generally fol¬
lowed, but they will gradually come a date forward again for several
years. Without doubt the 9th and lOtb, literally the middle of the
second week in November, seems to be about the best average dates.
As the 6th and 7th would be too early, and the 13th and 14th
rather late, the choice seems in favour of the former, We shall watch
the results next year with exceeding interest, but still so much of
these results must be contingent upon the nature of the next growing
season. — D.

At Chilwell.

For a number of years Messrs. J. R. Pearson k Sons have been
celebrated for their annual show of Chrysanthemums, and this is no
exception. Upwards of 2000 plants are arranged in a lofty structure
about 90 feet long and 30 feet wide, and the plants look splendid. They
are placed in one broad central bank with a narrow border round next
the sides of the house. The collection is kept well up to date by Mr.
C, E. Pearson who has this department under his control, all the latest
introductions being represented. Owing to the eailiness of the season
the flowers at the time of my visit were commencing to fade, whereas
in an ordinary year they would have been at the summit of their beauty.
Though some few may have passed away there still remains a display
rich in colour and grand flowers well worthy a long journey to see.
Messrs. Pearson are to be congratulated on having such a fine house in
which to show their plants, one in which the visitors can walk round
in comfort and see every plant and every flower to the fullest advan¬
tage. I noted a few of the varieties which appeared to be the most
praiseworthy, but doubtless several were missed, as my visit was unfo-r-
tunately a hurried one.

Particularly striking, immediately on entering, is a grand bright
yellow Japanese, named Mons. Pankcoucke, the flower of which is of
fine shape and build. Henri Jacotot fils is a chestnut-red- colon red
variety, the florets of which have a yellow reverse, which is extremely
attractive. An excellent hairy petalled kind is found in Vancauson
Testout, This is a well-formed flower, and is of a bright pink colour,
which should make it popular. A grand bloom is Mons. Auguste
Perrin, somewhat after the style of Viscountess Hambleden, but of a
delicate pink shade. The flower is massive, and almost faultless in
shape. Sarah Hill is a clear yellow, the broad florets of which are
flushed slightly with lilac at their tips. The beautiful blooms of Prim¬
rose League are now too well known to readers of the Journal to need
any description from me, as also are Lord Brooke, Mrs. Falconer
Jameson, Puritan, and Charles Davis, each of which was seen in superb
condition. Two bright yellow coloured kinds of merit are Charles
Blick and Golden Ball, the latter of which is grand for affording cut
blooms. Growing only 2 feet high, it might with advantage be used
for decorative purposes. For this latter purpose Ryecroft Glory, clear
yellow, is perhaps unsurpassed ; and Sydenham Terra Cotta is a kind
which might be grown with advantage. Both are free blooming, and
the former especially is one of the most useful for October flowering.

A charming variety is found in Mrs. Libbio Allen, and the enormous
blooms of Mrs. C. Harman Payne attract universal attention and
admiration. Many superb flowers of Miss Anna Hartshorn are to be
seen, and also of Florence Davis, W. H. Lincoln, and Viviand Morel.
The dwarf habit and brilliant colouration of G. W. Childs render it a
variety of the utmost utility. Mrs. Robt. Craig is a good incurved of a
delicate rose colour. The bloom is deep with somewhat pointed florets.
A substantial flower is Miss Ada MacVicar, and the primrose yellow
flowers of The Tribune last in good condition for an unusually long
time. A kind which promises well is Miss Maud Pearson, delicate pink
in colour, as also does The Queen, a white variety, the petals of which
are splashed with purple. Amongst the numerous other varieties
noticed were Colonel W. B. Smith, White Louis Boehmer, and Baron
Hirsch. — Nomad.

November 23, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

471

National Chrysanthemum Society.

The General Committee of this Society held a meeting on Monday
last at Anderton’s Hotel, when Mr. R. Ballantine occupied the chair.
Most of the business was of a purely formal nature, and the corre¬
spondence read related to proposed alterations in various classes, all of
which were referred to the Schedule sub-Committee for consideration.
The awards made by the Arbitration Committee at the November Show
were then submitted for confirmation, and comprised silver-gilt medals
to Mr. Robert Owen, Mr. H. J. Jones, Messrs. Cutbush & Sons, and
B. S. Williajns and

CHRYSANTHEMUM SHOWS.

HULL. — November 15th and 16th.

Son ; silver medals
to Messrs. Shuttle-
worth & Co., Mr.
H. Berwick, Mr.
Godfrey, Messrs.
H. Cannell & Sons,
and Messrs. J.
Laing and Sons ;
bronze medals to
Messrs.Cannell and
Mr. W. E. Boyce
for their exhibits of
flowers and vege¬
tables. The Chair¬
man announced
that the Show was
quite a success
both as regards the
attendance of the
public and the
quality of the ex¬
hibits.

The Secretary re¬
ported that income
to the amount of
£525 11s. 8d. had
been received up to

As briefly mentioned in our last issue, the annual Chrysanthemum
Show of the Hull and Bast Riding Society was held in the Artillery
Barracks at that town on the above dates. The Society is one of the
most enterprising and at the same time one of the most successful in the
country, and as regards quality no belter exhibits can be seen anywhere.
The advance which has been manifest every year since the formation

of the Society ten

date, the principal

items being £142
19s. 6d. for annual
subscriptions, £13
13s. 6d. donations,

£39 7s. afSliated
societies’ fees, £31
12s. 6d. for medals,
and £4 43. for sale
of catalogues. On
the subject of the
shows for 1894 it
was intimated that
they will probably
be the same as
those for the pre¬
sent year, viz., one
in September, held
by the Aquarium
Company, towards
which the Society
will c ojn t r i b u t e
money prizes for
Chrysanthemums ;
one in October,

November, and De¬
cember. Some dis¬
cussion thereupon
ensued as to the
advisability of find¬
ing a fresh place
for the Society’s
shows, but the pro¬
position was nega¬
tived.

The annual din¬
ner, as already
announced, will be
held at Anderton’s
Hotel on the 30th
inst., and all ar¬
rangements for it
have now been completed.

Twenty-four new members
for the year of 150.

Mr. C. E. Shea was prevented by indisposition from reading his
promised paper on “Judging,” but had sent it for the Secretary to read
if agreeable to the members. Mr. Beavan moved that the reading of it

Fig. 68.— CHRYSANTHEMUM LORD ROSEBERY.

years ago has been
well maintained,
the entries in al¬
most all classes
and divisions hav¬
ing increased in
number, totalling
430 — the highest
yet attained. The
classes for lady
competitors showed
a slight deprecia¬
tion, but the qua¬
lity was grandly
upheld. The in¬
crease was most
noticeable in the
division for plants,
once the weakest
part of the show.
The groups, for
which the Hull
Show has long been
celebrated, were
quite up to the
usual standard, and
that is a high one.
An innovation, in
the shape of a
class for a group
of foliage plants,
arranged for effect,
brought but two ex¬
hibits, both these
oeing magnificent
examples. The
Japanese section
contained many
superb blooms, and
the incurved were
amongst the very
finest that have
been staged at any
show this season.
As evidence of the
advance made by
this Society we
give the number
of entries in the
classes for cut
blooms this and
last season : — Ex¬
hibits in 1892,151 ^
1893, 194, an

in

Sir Edwin Saunders will occupy the chair,
and Fellows were elected, making a total

be deferred until Mr. Shea was well enough to attend personally, as he
thought any discussion arising upon the subject would not be fair to the
author, and this view received the support of the members present.

Questions were raised as to the advisability of ladies being invited to
be present at the annual dinner, the extension of the radius in the
metropolitan classes, and the meeting closed at a rather earlier hour
than usual.

increase of 43,
Number of blooms
staged in 1892,
1947; in 1893,2728,
an advance of 781.
In the plant sec¬
tion, exclusive of
groups, the ex¬
hibits in 1892 were
55 ; in 1893, 88, an
increase of 33 ; and
the plants staged
were, in 1892, 188,
and in 1893, 293,
an advance of 105.
class for twenty-four

Another novelty introduced this year was
blooms Japanese, distinct, to be arranged with or without foliage of any
kind as the exhibitors chose. The object of this class was to mtroduce
a less formal system of arrangement than that now in vogue, the merits
of the flowers being primarily considered, but artistic staging was a
necessary adjunct. The competitors numbered three, and the first prize
stand left little to be desired either in quality of the flowers or itithe
exquisite taste displayed in arrangement. The prizes, which included
several handsome vases and cups figured in the Journal of Horticulture
for October 12th (page 339). amounted in value to upwards of £2UU,_in
consideration of which it is by no means surprising that the entries
should be so large, the quality so high and the competition so keen.
ThP. Tnanncrement of the Exhibition, in the hands of Mr. R. halconer

472

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 23, 1893.

Jameson, Chairman of the Society, Messrs. El. Harland and J. Dixon, the
Honorary Secretaries, and the Committee were thorouGjhly carried out, and
reflected much credit on all those concerned. Especially praiseworthy
was the promptitude with which the Judges commenced their duties, an
example which might well be followed by numerous other societies
throughout the kingdom. We append a list of the prizewinners in the
principal classes, space not allowing of the whole being mentioned.

Groups and Trained Plants. — In the class for a group of Chrys¬
anthemums interspersed with foliage plants, arranged in a space not
exceeding 100 square feet, and with the first prize of which went a
silver challenge cup, which must be won three times before becoming
the absolute property of anyone, there were four competitors, the
premier award going to Mr. Coates, gardener to W. Wheatley, Esq ,

7, Milton Terrace, Anlaby Road, Hull, for a charming arrangement.
The Chrysanthemums were magnificent examples of high culture, and
the foliage plants were intermingled in a highly artistic manner. Mr.
G. Cottam, jun., Alma Gardens, Cottingham, was a good second, his
blooms being scarcely so well finished as those of the above named.
The third prize went to Mr. Murchison, gardener to F. B. Grotrian,
Esq., J. P., West Hill House, Hessle, and the fourth to Douglas C. Joy,
Esq., Wetton Hill, Brough. For a group of miscellaneous plants
arranged for effect in a space of 100 square feet, Mr. J. Wilson, gardener
to J. Reckitt, Esq , Swanland Manor, was deservedly placed first. The
plants, which included amongst others Crotons, Calanthes, Cypripediums,
Asparagus and Dracaenas, were perfectly grown specimens, in the placing
of which really exquisite taste had been displayed, the group producing
a light and graceful effect which left nothing to be desired. In Mr.
Cottam’s exhibit, which took the second prize. Chrysanthemums, Liliums,
and Palms were most prominent, all being well grown, clean, healthy
looking plants.

Mr. Hemming, gardener to E. Leetham, Esq., Beech Holme, Newland,
was placed first for three trained specimen plants, exclusive of standards,
with highly creditable examples of Mrs. G. Glenny, Mrs. Rundle, and
Mrs. Dixon, each of which carried handsome blooms. Mr. Coates was a
good second, and Mr. H. H. Taylor, Newiand, third. For three standard
trained plants Mr. Hemming was again first, staging precisely the same
varieties as in the class previously named. Mr. Mason, gardener to
Colonel A. K. Dibb, Kirk Ella, being second, and Mr. H. H. Taylor
third. For three pyramid trained specimens the same exhibitor who took
the premier position in the two classes above mentioned was first with
good examples, the second position being again taken by Mr. Mason.

In the class for six plants, bush grown, not formally trained, Mr. W.
Goodhill, 32, Stanley Street, Hull, was first with excellent examples of
W. H. Lincoln, Val d’Andorre, Mons. Bernard, Viviand Morel,
Avalanche, and Margot. Mr. H. H. Taylor was an excellent second ;
and Mr. T. Smith, Norwood Nursery, Beverley, a fair third. Mr.
W. Goodhill was also first for three bush-grown plants with Val
d’Andorre, Mons. Bernard, and Avalanche, all in very fine condition.
The second and third prizes were accorded to Messrs. Hemming and
H. H. Taylor in the order of their names. There were ten competitors
in the class for six “cut-backs,” any varieties, and the competition was
close. Mr. H. H. Taylor gained the premier award, staging grand plants
of Viviand Morel, Florence Davis, Sunflower, and Gloire du Rocher.
Mr. Coates was second. Mr. Willey, gardener to C. J. Ringrose, Esq.,
Cottingham Grange, third.

The three classes next following were restricted to amateurs or those
employing only one gardener, and the competition ran high. For three
bush-grown plants, Mr. F. Pape, Butcher Row, Beverley, was first ; Mr.
Coates second ; and A. Mayfield, Esq., Beverley Road, Hull, third. Mr.
Coates was first for three trained specimens, A. Mayfield Esq,, being
second, and Mr. R. Thirsk, Grovehill Road, Beverley, third. In the
class for one trained specimen, Mr. Thirsk took the premier position,
A. Mayfield, Esq., being second, and Mr. Coates third.

In the class for twelve table plants in pots not exceeding 6 inches
in diameter, Mr. J. Wilson was a splendid first, Mr. Leadbetter, gardener
to A. Wilson, Esq., Tranby Croft, Hull, being second, and Mr.
Hemming third. Mr. Hemming was first with six plants suitable for
table decoration ; Mr. Lawton, gardener to Colonel W. H. Harrison
Broadby, Welton House, was a very close second ; and Mr. Cottam
third.

Cu Blooms. — As has been said this section of the Exhibition was
represented by numerous superb examples. One of the principal classes
was for twenty-four incurved in not less than eighteen varieties, and not
more than two of any one kind. To the first prize a silver cup was
added, and the competition between the seven stands staged was close,
the premier position eventually being assigned to Mr. Lees, gardener to
F. A. Bevan, Esq., Trent Park, New Barnet, who staged — back row ;
Golden Empress of India, Lord Alcester, Hero of Stoke Newington,
Golden Empress, Lord Wolseley, Princess of Wales, Hero of Stoke
Newington, Lord Alcester. Middle row : Princess Teck, Violet Tomlin,
Mrs Coleman, Lady Dorothy, Miss M. A. Haggas, Lord Wolseley, Mrs.
Coleman, and Lady Dorothy. Front row : Prince Alfred, Empress of
India, Nil Desperandum, Jeanne d’Arc, Robt. Cannell, John Lambert,
John Salter, and John Doughty. All these blooms were grand and
perfectly finished. Mr. Shoesmith, gardener to M. Hodgson, Esq., Shirley,
Croydon, was second with fine though somewhat flatter flowers. Mr.
P. Blair, gardener to the Duke of Sutherland, Trentham, was third with
flowers which lacked the finish so noticeable in the two previously
named. There were five stands competing in the class for twehe
incurved, distinct, the quality of the blooms being first rate throughout.
Mr. Mask, gardener to Lord de Ramsey, Haveringland Hall, Norwich,
was placed first with — back row ; Princess of Wales, Violet Tomlin,

Guernsey Nugget, Camille Flammarion. Middle row : Miss M. A.
Haggas, Novelty, John Salter, Alfred Lyne. Front row: Mrs. Heale,
Jeanne d’Arc, Empress of India, and Princess Teck, This was a superb
exhibit in every way worthy of the high position accorded it. The
second prize went to Mr. Leadbetter, gardener to A. Wilson, Esq.,
Tranby Croft, Hull, whose stand was but few points behind that of
Mr. Musk, and the third to Mr. Blair with creditable blooms. For
twenty-four Japanese, distinct, Mr. Shoesmith was accorded the highest
position and took the silver cup given with the first prize. The flowers
exhibited were perfect in finish and weighty. The following varieties
were represented — back row : Viviand Morel, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Edwin
Molyneux, Mrs. E. D. Adams, Mrs, C. Harman Payne, Madame Calvat,
Charles Shrimpton, Etoile de Lyon. Middle row : W. W. Coles, Golden
Wedding, Ruth Cleveland, Colonel W. B. Smith, Mrs. Wheeler, G. C.
Schwabe, Mrs. E. W. Clarke, Mons. Bernard. Front row: Mdlle.
Th^sese Rey, J. Shrimpton, Lord Brooke, W. H. Atkinson, W. H.
Lincoln, Le Verseau, Wm. Seward, and Sunflower. Mr. Heany,
gardener to H. G. Sebintz, Esq., Mossley House, Liverpool, was second
with a heavy stand, Mr. Musk being a good third. Mr. Lees was
first for twelve Japanese, staging splendid blooms. A fine second was
found in Mr. Musk, the third position going to Mr. Shoesmith,

One of the novelties to which brief reference was made in the intro¬
duction was for twenty-four Japanese, arranged with any foliage, accord¬
ing to the taste of the exhibitor, on a table space not exceeding 6 feet
in length by 2 feet 6 inches in width. The object of this class says the
schedule was to introduce a more tasteful manner of staging highly
developed blooms, therefore first quality blooms were indispensable.
At the same time artistic arrangement was an essential, and was duly
considered by the adjudicators. The first prizewinner (Mr. Musk) had
grasped the full meaning of the schedule, and arranged a superb exhibit.
From a groundwork of beautifully green Fern arose the splendid Chrys¬
anthemums interspersed in a highly artistic manner with light and
elegant foliaged Palms. Amongst the best of the varieties utilised were
Sunflower, Viviand Morel, Florence Davis, G. C. Schwabe, Edwin
Molyneux, and Avalanche. The second prize was awarded to Mr.
Wilson with a highly creditable arrangement, and the third to Mr.
Jarvis, gardener to B. Whitaker, Esq., Cliff House, Hessle. In the class
for six bunches of incurved, Mrs. George Rundle, Mrs. Dixon, and
George Glenny, two bunches of each, three blooms to constitute a bunch,
Mr. Goodhill was a good first with clean, shapely examples; Mr.
Waterhouse, gardener to H. Witty, Esq., The Wellingtonias, Cottingham,
being second ; and Mr. Wells, Earlswood Nurseries, Redhill, third. Mr.
Blair was an excellent first in the class for six incurved, one variety,
with handsome blooms of John Salter ; Mr. Musk being second with
Madame Darrier ; and Mr. Pike, gardener to C. H. Wilson, Esq , M.P.,
Warter Priory, third with John Salter. There were ten competitors in
the class for six Japanese, one variety, some magnificent flowers being
staged. Mr. Shoesmith, with superb Colonel W. B. Smith, was
first ; closely followed by Mr. Leadbetter, with charming, refined
examples of Madame Baco ; the third prize being awarded to Mr.
J. W. Backhouse, Beverley, with highly creditable blooms of Avalanche.
Mr. Mason, gardener to A. Smith, Esq., Woodleigh, Hessle, was first for
twelve large Anemones, in not less than six varieties; Mr. Davidson,
gardener to R. Jameson, Esq., J.P., East Ella, was a good second; and
Mr. Burrows, gardener to Sir Henry Bennett, Westlands, Grimsby,
third. Mr. Mason was again first in the class for twelve Japanese
Anemones. Mr. Burrows was second. For twelve reflexed, in not less
than six varieties, Mr. Davidson was first with excellent blooms. The
second and third prizes were awarded to Messrs. Heany and Burrows in
the order of their names.

Mr. Walker, gardener to Colonel Stracey Clitherow, Hotham Hall,
Brough, was accorded the premier position in the class for twelve sweet
scented Chrysanthemums, Mr. Drewery, gardener to Edward Harland,
Esq., The Sycamores, Cottingham, being second, and Mr. W. Wells
third. For twelve hairy flowered varieties Mr. G. E. Smith, Floral
Cottage, Pauli, was first with charming blooms, and Mr. W. Wells second.
Mr. Drewery was a good first for twelve bunches of Pompons,
Mr. Hemming being second, and Mr. G. B. Smith third. For twelve
bunches of singles with foliage as grown Mr. Drewery was first, Messrs.
Walker and G. E. Smith being second and third respectively.
Mr. Crook, gardener to the Dowager Lady Hindlip, Hadsor House,
Droitwich, was first in the class for three blooms of Beauty of Exmouth,
showing creditable examples, Mr. Walker being second.

The only competitor in the class for a table of bouquets, wreaths,
sprays and buttonholes, to be composed of Chrysanthemums and any
kind of foliage, was Mr. H. H. Taylor, Newiand, who was deservedly
awarded the premier position for a charming and highly artistic exhibit.
The same exhibitor was first for a hand bouquet with a beautiful example
of taste and skill, Mr. Cottam being a good second, and Mr. Backhouse
third.

The class for twelve incurved, distinct, for growers residing in
Lincolnshire within twenty miles of Hull or anywhere in the East
Riding of Yorkshire, brought seven stands, and the first prize was
awarded to Mr. Burrows. Messrs. Jarvis and Pike were placed second
and third as mentioned. In the class for twelve incurved, in not less
than nine varieties or more than two bh oms of one kind, subject to the
same residential qualifications as the previous class, Mr. Davidson was
first, Mr. J. Clark, Cromwell Road Nurseries, Grimsby, second, and Mr.
Lawton third. For twelve Japanese, distinct, with the first prize of
which went a silver cup, there were ten competitors, Mr. Burrows being
eventually accorded the premier position. The second prize went to
Mr. Walker with small refined flowers, and the third to Mr. Willey,

November 23, 1893.

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

473

gardener to C. J. Ringrose, Esq., Cottingham Grange. In the class for
twelve Japanese, in not less than nine varietiesor more than two blooms
of any one kind, Mr. Willey was first, Mr. Walker second, and Mr.
Jarvis third. The two following classes were only open to amateurs
and those employing one gardener with no casual assistance whatever.
For twelve incurved, in not less than six varieties, Miss Veal, Westland
Corner, Bargate, Grimsby, was placed first, J. A. Hudson, Esq., Long-
croft, Beverley, second, and Mr. Waterhouse third. Miss Veal was
again first for twelve Japanese in not less than six varieties, Mr.
Waterhouse being second, and J. A. Hudson, Esq., third.

The leading incurved bloom in the open classes was a superb example
of Lord Alcester shown by Mr. Lees, and the premier Japanese a perfect
flower of Chas. Davis, exhibited by Mr. Heany. In the amateurs’ division
the leading incurved was Jeanne d’Arc, in fine form, staged by Mr.
Stanley, and the best Japanese a magnificent Stanstead White, shown
by Mr. Backhouse.

In the amateurs’ classes for cut blooms the competition was remark¬
ably keen, the blooms staged being highly creditable to their respective
growers. For twelve incurved in six varieties, with the first prize of
which was given a silver cup, Mr. A. W. Stanley, De-la-Pole Estate,
Newington, Hull, was awarded the premier position. A silver cup also
went with the first prize in the class for twelve Japanese in nine
varieties, Mr. W. H. Clarke taking the leading position. Plants in pots
were also extensively shown in this section, and the greatest credit is
due to the growers for the good quality of their exhibits. The number
of exhibits in the classes for table decorations, bouquets, and sprays, open
to ladies only, showed a slight decrease from those of last year ; the
quality, however, was excellent.

Miscellaneous exhibits were not ivery numerous, but the quality
throughout was exceptional. The Hull Corporation arranged a grand
group which would have gained a position had it been staged for
competition, the Chrysanthemums being fine and the foliage plants clean
and healthy. Table plants, in magnificent condition, were also staged
by the Corporation. Messrs. B. P. Dixon, seed merchants, Hull, had a
prominent stand of foliage plants and fruits. Mr. R. J. Woolton, New-
land Toft Nursery, Hull, one of Chrysanthemums and Ferns ; Mr. J. W.
Wilson, F.R.H.S., South Cave, one of Orchids, Ferns, and Palms ; the
Rev. W. M. Bennett, M.A., Elloughton, one of Pompons, and Mr. Wm.
Martin, seedsman. Market Place, Hull, one of bulbous roots.

BIRMINGHAM. — November 15th and 16th.

A MAGNIFICENT exhibition was held in the Town Hall on the
dates named. Birmingham has long been noted for its splendid autumn
shows, but taking all the exhibits into consideration — Chrysanthemums,
miscellaneous plants, fruit and vegetables — no finer exhibition has ever
been held than the present one. Nowhere can keener competition be
found in the cut bloom classes. The groups of Chrysanthemums in pots
and the specimens made a fine display. Primulas were magnificent, and
so were the Grapes as well as the hardy fruit. The arrangements were
perfect, under the direction of Mr. Hughes, ably assisted by an efiicient
Committee.

Plants were numerously shown and in grand condition. For nine
large flowered, Japanese excluded, £5 was offered as first prize. Mr.
Dyer, gardener to Mrs. Marigold, Edgbaston, was an easy first with
specimens not too formally trained, carrying about forty blooms each
and splendid foliage ; John Salter, Barbara, and Prince Alfred were
especially noticeable. Mr. J. Maldrum, gardener to G. Cadbury, Esq ,
Selly Oak, was a good second, and Mr. A. Cryer, gardener to J. A. Ken¬
drick, Esq., Edgbaston, third. Messrs. Dyer and Maldrum were placed
in the same position for six large flowered with meritorious examples.

For three Japanese Mr. Dyer was again successful, having Florence
Davis, W. H. Lincoln, and Viviand Morel in admirable condition. Mr.
Maldrum was second. Messrs. Dyer, Maldrum and Cryer were placed
in the order named for a single specimen, incurved variety. Mr. Dyer,
with a grand plant of Florence Davis, won the premier award for single
specimen Japanese, Mr. Maldrum following with Val d’Andorre.
Mr. J. Maldrum won with three Pompons, showing freely flowered
examples of Golden and White Cedo Nulli and Soeur Melanie. Mr.
Cryer was second.

Groups of Chrysanthemums were largely contributed. In the class
for a group of 100 square feet area there were seven competitors ; £10
was offered for first prizes with others of handsome proportion. Mr. W.
Earp, gardener to the Right Hon. Joseph Chamberlain, M.P., Birming¬
ham, was an easy first with a magnificent group, mainly composed of
Japanese varieties, the blooms being quite up to exhibition form. The
plants were not too crowded, as is the case in many groups, but they
displayed their individuality. A few well grown plants of Cocos
Weidelliana were effectively arranged among the Chrysanthemums, thus
relieving the surface of bloom. A neat edging of Ferns and Crotons
completed an excellent group. Mr. Dyer was second with an admirable
arrangement. Mr. P. H. Jones, gardener to F. Jenkins, Esq., Olton,
was third with dwarfer plants, beautifully fresh, but they were a
trifle crowded. In a smaller group of Chrysanthemums, Ferns, and
foliage plants there were seven competitors. Mr. J. Maldrum won
premier honours rather easily with plants carrying grand flowers, well
grown Cocos Weddelliana, with highly coloured Croton^, Eulalias, and
Ferns, all lightly arranged. Mr. W. Clements, gardener to Mrs. Horton,
Moseley, was second ; and Mr. S. Gibbs, gardener to J. B. Manley, Esq.,
Harborne, third, both showing well.

Cut blooms were staged in sufficient numbers to make a show in
themselves. Prizes of £10, £7 lOs., £5, £2 10s., £1 10s., and £1 were

offered for twenty-four incurved blooms, distinct, which produced twelve
competitors. Mr. Neve, gardener to C. Van Raalte, Esq., Aldenham
Abbey, Redleet, Herts, just managed to secure leading honours by the
superior quality of his blooms, which were rather undersized but
beautifully fresh and well finished. The varieties were — Back row:
Golden Empress, Empress of India, Mons. R. Bahuant, Lord Alcester,
Alfred Salter, Emily Dale, Robert Cannell, and Queen of England.
Middle row : Madame Darrier, Camille Flammarion, Princess of Wales,
Lord Wolseley, Jeanne d’Arc, Prince Alfred, Miss M. A. Haggas, and
Violet Tomlin. Front row : Princess Beatrice, Mrs. Coleman, Hero of
Stoke Newington, Princess Teck. Lady Dorothy, White Venus, Madame
F. Mistral, and Golden Eagle. Mr. A. Haggart, gardener to Mr. J. J.
Foster, Ludlow, was second. His blooms were heavier, but lacked the
finish and quality of the first prize stand, Messrs. Ray &Co., Teynham,
was third ; Mr. C. Smith, gardener to W. Showell, Esq., Bellbroughton,
fourth.

For eighteen incurved, distinct, five competed, Mr. C. Smith winning
■with medium-sized neat blooms. Mr, C. Crookes, gardener to Lady
Hindlip, Droitwich, was second, and Mr. Haggart third. Mr. Crookes
won with twelve incurved, distinct ; Mr. Haggart second, and Mr.
S. Bremmell, gardener to H, H. F. Hayhurst, Wellington, third, ten
competing.

Japanese blooms made a magnificent display, no less than twenty
competing in the class for twenty-four, distinct, similar prizes being
offered as for incurved. Mr. R. Parker, gardener to J. Corbett, Esq.,
Impney Hall, Droitwich, succeeded in winning the coveted award
with a stand of heavy blooms, well displayed. The varieties were —
Back row : Btoile de Lyon (grand). Van den Heede, Florence Davis,
Mrs. C. H. Payne, Colonel W. B. Smith (fine), Madame Octavie
Mirbeau (charming), Boule d’Or, and Viviand Morel. Middle row :
W. H. Lincoln, B. Molyneux, Lady Lawrence, G. C. Schwabe (good),
Mdlle. Th^r^se Rey, W. Seward, and Sunflower. Front row: Madame
Isaac, President Borel, Le Verseau, C. Blick, G. Herrin, M. E. A. Carr'fere,
and Mrs. F. Jameson. Mr. Haggart was a good second ; Mr. W. Earp
third ; and Mr. Neve fourth.

Mr. Haggart won premier position in the class for eighteen, distinct,
with grand blooms. Mr. C. Smith was second, and Mr. R. Parker a very
close third. The competition in the class for twelve Japanese, distinct,
was keen, but Mr. J. Austin, gardener to the Earl of Dudley, Witley
Court, was ahead with grand blooms. Mr. Haggart was second, and
Mr. Bremmell third. Mr. Hewitt, Solihull, staged the best Anemones, a
fairly good stand. Mr. J. Justice, gardener to Sir G. Temple, Bart.,
Kempsey, was second. Miscellaneous plants were largely contributed,
though space forbids full details being given.

Birmingham has always been notable for its Primulas. This year
was no exception. For twelve singles, Mr. F. Denning, Hall Green,
Moseley, won with fine plants ; Messrs, Thomson, Spark Hill Nurseries,
second ; and Messrs. Pope & Sons third. For six doubles Mr. Denning
again won, Messrs. Thomson following. Six Fern-leaved, Messrs. Pope
first, Messrs. Thomson second. In the classes set apart for gentlemen’s
gardeners only, Mr. P. H. Jones, gardener to F. Jenkins, Esq., Olton,
won first honour for twelve, and also for six with magnificent examples,
also securing the silver medal for excellence of culture. Mr. Coldecott,
gardener to W. Matthews, Esq., Edgbaston, was second in the former
class. Cyclamens were grandly shown by Mr. Earp in the classes for both
twelve and six plants. Bouquets were a feature of the Show, Messrs.
Perkins winning with a magnificent arrangement, mainly of Orchids, in
shower form.

Fruit can only briefly be noticed . Mr. Goodacre won the premier award
for six bunches of Grapes with grand examples of Gros Colman, Muscat
of Alexandria, Alicante, White Tokay, and Gros Maroc. Mr. Banner-
man, gardener to Lord Bagot, Rugeley, second. Mr. J. Bates, gardener
to T. T. Harris, Esq., Stone, won for three bunches black Grapes with
Gros Colman, among nine good exhibits ; and also for one bunch black.
For two bunches any white variety, Muscats excluded, Mr. J. Waldron
won with White Nice. For three bunches of Muscats, Mr. W. Earp
was first. A magnificent collection of eight dishes of Pears won for Mr.
Austin the first prize. They were grand fruits of B4urre Diel, Marie
Louise, Durondeau, Bergamot Bsperen, Josephine Gregoire, Glou
Mor^eau, Easter Beurrd, and Beurr6 Ranee. Mr. Austin also won first
honours for one Pine, staging a good example of Smooth Cayenne.

RUGBY. — November 15th and 16th.

The seventh annual Show of the Rugby Chrysanthemum Society
was held in the Town Hall on the above dates. The arrangements, under
the superintendance of the able Secretary, Mr. W. Bryant, were excellent
in every way. There was a considerable increase in the number of
entries this year, the total being 300, against 217 of the previous show.

The leading class was for thirty-six blooms, eighteen incurved and
eighteen Japanese, distinct, the first prize being £5 and a special prize
value £1 Is., together with a certificate of the N.C.S. Mr. W. Pearce,
gardener to S. Loder, Esq., Floore House, Weedon, secured the premier
position, having a grand stand of blooms, the Japanese being especially
good in form and colour. The following were the varieties most worthy
of recognition. Beauty of Castle Hill, Puritan, Bouquet des Dames,
Edwin Molyneux, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Louis Boehmer, J. Stanborough
Dibben, Mrs. Falconer Jameson, W. H. Lincoln, Viviand Morel,
Florence Davis, Comte de Germiny, Stanstead White, Mrs. E. W. Clarke,
Avalanche, Btoile de Lyon, Boule d’Or, Mrs. E. W. Wheeler, Golden
Empress of India, Robert Cannell, John Lambert, Refulgens, Alfred
Lyne, Mrs. N. Davis, Lord Alcester, Jardin des Plantes, Lady Dorothy,

474

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Norember 23, 1893.

Queen of England, Prince Alfred, and Lord Eversley. Mr. W. Tustin,
gardener to Arthur James. Esq., Coton House, Kugby, was a good
second, his best blooms being Miss M. A. Haggas, Empress of India, Lord
Alcester, Ralph Brocklebank, and Condor. Mr. Harman, gardener to
the Right Hon. Earl of Denbigh, was a creditable third with a stand of
neat blooms. For the premier incurved bloom in the Show, Mr. Tustin
was to the front, having a splendid example of Miss M. A. Haggas, and
with a grand flower of Viviand Morel, Mr. Pearce secured the award for
the premier Japanese.

In the class for twenty-four blooms (Japanese), Mr. Pearce was again
■first, his best varieties in this class being Viviand Morel, Mrs. C. W.
Wheeler, Madame Clemence Audiguier, Thunberg, Mrs. E. W. Clark,
Stanstead White, Florence Davi.s, Miss Lilian Bird, Mdlle. Marie Hoste,
Mr. A. H. Neve. As in the previous class Mr. Tustin was a good second,
the third prize going to Mr. Harman. For twenty-four incurved Mr.
Harman succeeded in securing first honours with medium-sized but well-
finished blooms. For twelve blooms, incurved, the first and second
prizes fell to Mr. Pearce and Mr. Tustin in the order named, the third
being awarded to Mr. Dunkley, gardener to S. Symington, Esq., J.P.
Brooklands House, Market Harborough. For twelve Japanese Mr.
Tustin was first, the second prize in this class going to Mr. F. J. Blake,
gardener to G. Singer, Esq., Counden Court, Coventry. Mr. Tustin was
again first for six incurved and six Japanese, distinct. Mr. J. Blakeway,
gardener to P. A. Muntz, Esq., M.P., Dunsmore, Rugby, was a close
second ; and Mr. J. Newman, gardener to Mrs. Morgan, Moulsworth,
Bilton Road, Rugby, third. For twelve blooms, incurved, Mr. Tustin
was again to the front, Mr. J. Blakeway and Mr. J. Newman following
in the order named. For twelve Japanese Mr. Blakeway was an easy
first, Mr. Tustin second, and Mr. J. Newman third.

For a group of Chrysanthemums arranged in a space equal to
GO square feet, the number of varieties, quality of blooms, and general
effect to be the leading feature, Mr. J. Blakeway was an easy first.
Mr. A. J. Kilbourne, gardener to Miss Bridgman Simpson, Bilton Hall,
Rugby, was second. For a special group, arranged in a space equal to
40 square feet, the leading honour went to Mr. J. Frost, James Street,
Rugby ; Mr. J. W. Morris, gardener to A. E. Donkin, Esq , Rugby,
being placed second. Mr. J. Newman gained the first prize in the
class for four trained specimen Chrysanthemums, Mr. J. Blakeway being
second.

Fruit was extensively shown, and was of excellent quality. Two
magnificent bunches of Muscat of Alexandra Grapes secured for Mr.
Harman the premier award, Mr. J. Blakeway being second with some
well finished bunches of Black Alicante. Apples were remarkable for
their size and colour. Pears being also of an excellent quality. Amongst
the chief prize winners may be mentioned Messrs. Pearce, Blakeway,
Morris, and Newman. The display of vegetables exhibited this year
totally eclipsed that of any previous occasion, but space precludes
entering their good qualities here.

SOUTH SHIELDS. — November 15th and 16th.

*•' A SPLENDID Show ” was the verdict pronounced by everyone who
saw the South Shields and Northern Counties’ Exhibition held in the
Royal Assembly Hall of that town. The competition in nearly all the
fifty-two classes was keen, and while the productions in the Chrys¬
anthemum classes were of the very highest merit, the produce in both
the Grape and vegetable classes were very superior.

For twenty-four Japanese, not less than twelve varieties, Mr. P.
Blair, Trentham Gardens, Stoke-on-Trent, gained first honours with
Puritan, Beauty of Castlewood, Viviand Morel, R. C. Kingston, M. Rivon,
Sunflower, Etoile de Lyon, Beauty of Castlewood, Chas. Blick (very
good), W. Shrimpton, Mrs. A. H. Neve, Viviand Morel, G. C. Schwabe,
J. S. Dibben, Vice-President Audiguier, C. Blick, Mrs. E. W. Clark,
Dorothea Shea, G. Atkinson, Etoile de Lyon, Puritan, Excelsior, Vice-
President Audiguier, and John Dj?er. Mr. Thos. Wheeler, gardener to
C. Mitchell, Esq., Jesmond Towers, Newcastle, was second with fresh
and massive blooms. Mr. James Coultas, gardener to Alderman
Harding, J.P., Darlington, was placed third, and Mr. G. E. Smith
Floral Cottage, Pauli, near Hull, fourth. Eight collections were staged]

In a corresponding class for twenty-four incurved, Mr. Blair was
again to the front with a good collection, consisting of Lord Alcester,
Violet Tomlin, Queen of England, Empress of India, Novelty, Lord
Wolseley, lAlfred Salter, Princess of Wales, Mrs. Heale, John Salter,
John Doughty, Alfred Lyne, Baron Hirsch, Golden Empress, Prince of
V^ales, Camille Flammarion, Alfred Salter, Empress of India, John
Lambert, and Madame Darrier. Mr. James Coultas was placed second,
staging large but somewhat flat blooms, Queen of England, Jeanne
d’Arc, and Nil Desperandum being his best flowers. Mr. Smith gained
the third place, and Mr. G. W. Pinkney the fourth.

For eighteen Japanese, twelve varieties, there were seven com¬
petitors, first honours being secured by Mr. George Craig, gardener to
Mrs. Barclay, Richmond. Mr. Wheeler was close second, and Mr. George
Smith a good third. There were the same number of exhibits in the
corresponding class for eighteen incurved, and Mr. Blair was well to the
front, Messrs. Smith & Pinkney sharing the other prizes in the order of
their names. There were nine collections of twelve Japanese, distinct,
the best coming from Mr. Wheeler, Mr. Blair, and Mr. Craig, being
placed second and third respectively. Mr. J. Corbett, gardener to the
Marquis of Normanby, Mulgrave Castle, Whitby, was awarded the first
position for twelve incurved distinct, while Mr. Coultas and Mr. Richard¬
son shared the^ other awards as here given. Anemones were
represented by six collections, the best coming from Mr. Wheeler,

Messrs. Smith Blair being second and third respectively ; reflexed
and Pompons .were also well represented, and shown in high order of
cultivation. Hand bouquets, bridal bouquets, epergnes, lady’s sprays
and buttonholes were staged in profusion, and added immensely to the
attractions of the Exhibition.

Groups of Chrysanthemums and other flowering and foliage plants
were pleasingly arranged, and the class found nine competitors,
Mr. J. Wood, Riverside Gardens, Morpeth, was a good first ; Mr. H.
Brown, gardener to Alderman Redhead, second ; Mr. Richardson, third,
and Mr. G. Burton, fourth. Table plants and Primulas are seldom seen
better exhibited and in greater numbers than was staged here.
Mr. Alex. Purvis was a strong exhibitor in the local plant class, and
gained several prizes, while Mr. W. Partridge figured prominently in
the local cut bloom classes.

Mr. Bernard Cowan and others laboured hard to further the interest
of the Society’s work, and their efforts were well rewarded by the
excellence of the display and the large company of visitors who
patronised the exhibition.

BRISTOL. — November 15th and 16th.

A GRAND display of all kinds of flowers in season as well as Chrys¬
anthemums generally was made at Bristol on this occasion. A delay
occurred in getting the prize cards in position, and if prizewinners
names are omitted in this report it is owing to these not being forth¬
coming in time to be taken down.

With six specimen plants of incurved varieties Mr. Ayres, gardener to
Mr. Gibson, was well first. Mr. J. West, Clifton, was a good second,
and Mr. G. Sutton, gardener to Mr. Todd, third. The first prize for six
reflexed varieties also went to Mr. J. Ayres, Mr. H. Spry, gardener to
Mr. D. Bain being second, and Mr. M. S. Blacker, gardener to Miss Charlet,
third. The best three specimens of Japanese varieties were shown by
Mr. J. Ayres, Mr. G. Sutton being second. Mr. J. Southard received a
first prize and silver medal for a single specimen of incurved variety,
showing a very fine plant of Mr. G. Bundle. The first prize for a
Japanese variety went to Mr. J. Ayres. A first prize for a group of
Chrysanthemums went to Mr. J. Marshall, who made a very imposing
display. In another class for a group consisting of Chrysanthemums
and fine foliaged plants Mr. G. Newbury, gardener to Mr. Joshua
Saunders, was first. Mr. W. Bannister, gardener to Mr. H. St. Vincent
Ames, was second, and Mr. J. Atwell, gardener Mr. D. Brain, third.
Groups of miscellaneous plants were also good, and in this instance Mr.
G. Newbury was first, and Mr. G. Shelton second. The principal winners
in the other plant classes were Messrs. J. Kent, W. Bannister, A. Han¬
cock, G. Shelton, W. Baston, G. Price, E. S. Cole & Son, F. Edwards,
W. Marshall, and J. Ayres.

Cut blooms were grand, all the thirteen classes provided for them
being well filled. The best twenty-four incurved varieties were shown
by Mr. Aplin, gardener to Mr. W. Meath Baker, Gloucester, who had
Lord Alcester, Princess of Teck, Mrs. Norman Davis, Richard Parker,
Alfred Salter, Empress of India (2), Princess of Walesi(2), John Lambert,
Empress Eugbnie, Isabella Bett, Miss Haggas, Lady Dorothy, Jeanne
d’Arc, Lord Eversley, Mrs. R. King, Lord Wolseley, Hero of Stoke
Newington, and Barbara. Messrs. W. and G. Drover, Fareham, were
second ; and Mr. G. Runnacles third. In the corresponding class for
Japanese varieties Messrs. W. and G. Drover were first, having massive
well-coloured blooms of G. S. Schwabe, Viviand Morel, Miss A. Harts¬
horn, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Mons. Bernard, Col. W. B. Smith, Sunflower,
Mrs. E. W. Clarke, Mons. Pigny, Sarah Owen, Mrs. C. H. Wheeler, Vice-
President Audiguier, William Seward, Gloriosum, Bessie Drover, Charles
Davis, Mrs. C. H. Payne, Stanstead White, Florence Davis, W. H. Lincoln,
Lilian S. Bird, Etoile de Lyon, Mrs. E. D. Adams, and John Shrimpton.

The best eighteen Japanese varieties were shown by Mr, W. Robinson,
gardener to Lord Justice Lopes, Westbury. With twelve .Japanese
varieties Mr. Robinson was again first, showing fine blooms. The best
eighteen incurved varieties were shown by Mr, Bishop, gardener to the
Rev. F. C. Drake. The first prize for twelve incurved varieties was well
won by Mr. G. Runnacles. For twelve blooms of Anemone-flowered
Chrysanthemums, in not less than six varieties, Mr. W. Robinson was a
good first. The same exhibitor took the lead with reflexed varieties.

Special prizes were offered for six new Japanese varieties, and once
more Mr. Robinson was first, having good blooms of Mrs.C. H. Payne, Mrs.

E. D. Adams, J. S. Dibben, Duke of York, Colonel W. B. Smith, and
Robert Owen. A prize was also offered for a single bloom of any
Japanese variety sent out in 1892 or 1893, and this was well won by Mr.
W. Wells, Redhili, who had a perfect bloom of Lord Brooke. Bouquets,
vases, and flora! decorations generally were as they always are at the
Bristol Shows numerous and good, Mr. C. Winstone, Clifton, being among
the most successful of the exhibitors.

Fruit was extensively shown, and merits a fuller report than can be
given of it. For a collection of six dishes, Mr. Nash, Badminton, was an
easy first, Mr. Bannister being second, and Mr. H. Perkins, gardener to Mr.
Drucker, third. Mr. Marshall was awarded a first for Black Hamburgh
and also for Mrs. Piece’s Muscat Grapes. Mr. Nash had a first for
grand Gros Colman ; while the premier award for Alicante went to Mr.

F. Lewis. Very good also were the first prize Muscats, shown by Mr. J.
Gibson, Draycot Manor ; White Tokay, shown by Mr. E. Silk ; and
Lady Downe’s and Gros Maroc, shown by Mr. Jones, Bath, the first
prize being awarded in each instance. Apples and Pears were also
remarkably good. Mr. W. Bannister was the winner of first prizes for
both collections of the former, and also for six varieties of Pears. Mr.
W. Nash gained the first prize for four varieties. Other successful

November 23, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

475

exhibitors ia these and the single dish classes were Messrs. Virgo,
E. Hall, Mogford, H. Dunn, W. March, R. Carver, and A. Drucker.

Non-competitive exhibits were fairly numerous and exceptionally
good. Mr. J, Crispin, Bristol, had a charming bank of Orchids ; Messrs.
Cannell & Sons, Swanley, a really beautiful display of new Chrysanthe¬
mums and Zonal Pelargoniums with Ferns ; while Messrs. Garraway
and Co., Durdham Downs Nursery, Clifton, exhibited a grand collection
of Apples.

WINCHESTER. — Novejiber 15th and 16th.

A COMPACT Exhibition was that held in the Guildhall in this city on
the dates named. If the exhibits were not numerous they possessed
quality, which is encouraging to all concerned.

The principal interest was centred in the cut bloom classes. The
most important being that for forty-eight half Japanese, and the
remainder incurved. The first prize was a silver cup value £15,
presented by the ladies of Winchester in addition to a cash prize of £5.
Mr. Neville, gardener toF. W. Flight, Esq., Twyford, Winchester, secured
the premier award with even, neat blooms, tastefully arranged. The
varieties were Col. Smith (2), Thomas Hewitt (2), Viviand Morel (2),
W. H. Lincoln (2), Waban, Primrose League, Ruth Cleveland,
Mr. B. Findlay (2), Lord Brooke, Mdlle. Marie lloste, Mrs. Nesbit,
Stanstead White, Golden Wedding, F. Davis, Paul Marguerite,
R. Brocklebank, Miss A. Hartshorn, Vice-President Audiguier, and
Le Verseau. Incurved ; Lord Alcester (2), Alfred Salter (2), Baron
Hirsch, Queen of England (2), J. Doughty, Mons. Bahuant, Miss
M. A. Haggas, Prince Alfred, Princess of Wales (2), Empress of India,
Lord Wolseley, Mrs. Heales, Pr lude, Mrs. Coleman, Hero of Stoke
Newington, Golden Empress (2), Lady Dorothy, and Violet Tomlin.
Mr. H. W. Brown, gardener to A. B. Welch Thornton. Esq., Beaurepaire
Park, Basingstoke, was a close second. Mr. Agate, Havant, was a good
third.

^Mr. G. Trinder, 'gardener to .Sir H. Mildmay, Dogmersfield Park,
Winchfield, won for twenty-four Japanese with a good stand of blooms.
Messrs. Brown & Agate followed in the order named. Mr. J. Hughes,
gardener to W. Baring, Esq., Norman Court, Salisbury, won for twelve
incurved ; Mr. Neville, second ; Mr. Broivn, third. Mr. Hughes also
won for twelve Japanese. For six blooms incurved, any one variety of
the “Queen’’ family, Mr. Agate secured leading position with Lord
Alcester in good form. F<ir six blooms incurved, any variety excluding
the “Queen” family Mr. Neville won with Princess of Wales. Mr. Brown
with Mdlle. Marie Hoste won for six any white Japanese, Mr. Hughes
second with Florence Davis. Mr. F. Smith, gardener to Lady E. Wood-
house, Mayfield, Winchester, won for six, any one coloured variety with
Viviand Morel. For twelve Japanese, not less than eight varieties,
Mr. G. Street, gardener to Dr. Fearon, The College, Winchester, was
easily first.

Chrysanthemums in pots made a good display. For eight trained
specimens, Mr. Carr, gardener to W. A. Gillett, Esq., Fair Oak Lodge,
Bishopstoke, won easily. Mr. E. Astridge was second. Mr. Carr had
the best specimen in both the incurved and Japanese sections. In the
latter he showed Madame B. Rendatler, having fully 300 expanded
blooms. For the best group of Chrysanthemums, Mr. F. Broomer,
Tower Street Nursery, Winchester, was ahead of Mr. G. Street for the
premier position with dwarf plants, lightly arranged. A class was
provided for plants in pots not larger than 9 inches, suitable for con¬
servatory decoration, which produced good results. Mr. G. Adams,
gardener to Col. F. A. Dickens, Blackbridge, Winchester, was first. Mr.
Carr had the best group of miscellaneous plants arranged for effect —
a charming arrangement. Mr. T. Munt, gardener to Mrs. C. Warner,
Northlands, Winchester, second. The Misses Flight, Webb, and Golding
were the principal exhibitors in the classes for the best arranged stand
of Chrysanthemums, and also that arranged with hardy shrubs. Ferns,
and Grasses.

Fruit was well shown. Mr. E. Hillier, nurseryman, ^Winchester,
had a group of miscellaneous plants, “ not for competition.” Mr. Moly-
neux, gardener to W. H. Myers, Esq., M.P., Swanmore Park, Bishop’s
Waltham, staged some splendid cut blooms, representing the incurved,
Japanese, and single- flowered sections, and also two dozen bunches of
freely flowered varieties, all of which tended to improve the Exhibition,

PARKSTONE. — November 15Tfl and 16ih.

The newly formed Parkstone Chrysanthemum and Horticultural
Society held its first Exhibition of plants, cut blooms, fruits, and
vegetables in St. Peter’s School Rooms, on the above dates, proved a
success.

Groups of Chrysanthemums made a very good show, the plants being
well grown, the flowers large and fresh, and the colours judiciously
intermixed. Those arranged by Mr. W. Weeks, gardener to
E. N. Blanchard, Esq., and Mr. T. Gould, gardener to Mrs. Dawson
Damar, were decidedly the best. Good groups were arranged in the
local classes by Messrs. J. Jackson and Bodger, both of Parkstone.

Mr. W. Taylor, gardener to Mrs. Elphinstone, Christchurch (the
winner of the ten-guinea cup at Bournemouth last year), had the best
stand of twelve Japanese, including excellent blooms of Viviand Morel,
Mrs. Wheeler, and Florence Davis ; Mr. G. Shave, gardener to
W. W. Moore, Esq., Bournemouth, had the second best stand, and
Mr. T. Gould the third best. In the corresponding class for incurved,
Mr. Taylor was to the front again, Mr. Gould being second, both
showing good all round blooms. Mr. G. Shave had the best stand of
Anemone?, also of reflexed; Mr. Bason, gardener to Mrs. D. M. Fox,
being second in both classes.

Vegetables were shown in excellent condition. Mr. Taylor had the
best collection of eight kinds. Mr. T. Gould was a creditable second.

Mr. Taylor was also first in the open class for two bunches of Grapes.
In the local class, Mr. Gould, and Mr. House, gardener to J. Jackson, Esq.,
were respectively first and second fora like number of bunches, showing
Lady Dovvne’s. Mr. Hillier, gardener to Mr. Kilner, showed the besttwo
dishes of dessert Apples, and was also first for culinary Apples, and for
Pears.

Mr. T. K. Ingram contributed a fine bank of grandly flowered
Chrysanthemums, which, being effectively arranged commanded a good
deal of attention, as also did an arrangement of choice cut flowers.

HEREFORD.— November 15th, 16th, and 17th.

The Exhibition was held in the spacious Shire Hall, which was filled
to overflowing, passages and corridors having to be utilised to stage the
exhibits as the large halls would not contain them. The fruit was well
worthy of the county, being large, splendidly coloured, and in great
quantities. The improvement in the farmers’ and cottagers’ exhibits
prove the increased interest they now take in fruit culture.

Groups of Chrysanthemums were more numerous than last year, and
of much better quality. Withs’ Plant Food Co., Hereford, won the cup
with well-grown plants and large blooms, edged with small Palms,
Ferns, and Roman Hyacin hs. Sir J. Pulley came second with a fine
group, but lost the first position through a fault in arrangement. For
twelve ml for six plants C. Loder Gilbert, E?q , took chief honours in
each case for plants profusely bloomed. For thirty-six cut blooms,
eighteen incurved and eighteen Japanese, R. W. D. Harby, Esq., was
first with massive blooms. Sir J. Pulley second with much smaller
flowers. Mr. Harby was the most successful for twelve Japanese and
for twelve incurved. In the classes open to Herefordshire only Withs’
Plant Food Co. was first for thirty-six cut blooms, C. Lee Campbell, Esq.,
second, and J. Parkin, Esq., M.P., third, all staging good blooms.
In the smaller classes Messrs. Greathead, Whitfield, and Sir J. Pulley
took leading honours.

For 100 dishes of Apples, Messrs. Geo. Bunyard & Co., Maidstone,
were first with a magnificent collection, the fruit fresh, large, and highly
coloured. Mr. J. Watkins came second with fruit little if at all inferior
to Messrs. Bunyard’s, and the English Fruit and Rose Company, Hereford,
third with clean fruit of good size. For twenty-four dishes of Pears,
Mr. J. Watkins was an easy first with fruit of immense size and fine
colour. This exhibitor was awarded first honours for the finest dish of
Apples (Peasgood’s Nonesuch), and the best dish of Pears (Glou Morgeau)
in the Show out of the above collections ; J. Rankin, Esq., M.P., took
second position in the above Pear class. With thirty dishes of Apples
C. Lee Campbell, Esq., Glewston Court, Ross, was first with a collection
remarkable for size and colour, Mr. Evans, Moreton Court, Hereford,
came second, and Lady Emily Foley, Stoke Edith Park, Hereford, third ;
the points in this class were very close. In the single dish classes, the
English Fruit and Rose Company, Rev. Sir G. H. Cornewall, Rev.
G. H. Davenport, Geo. Pewtress, Esq., Mrs. Evans, H. Hamer, Esq.,
C. Lee Campbell, Esq., and Rev. W. H. Lambert were the most
successful competitors.

Amongst amateur growers W. E, King-King, Esq., was first with
twenty-four dishes of Apples, Sir J. Pulley second. For twelve dishes
of Apples, Mrs. Watkins, Wilcroft, secured first honours, and Mrs.
Woodhouse, Burghhill Court, second. With nine dishes of dessert
Apples, distinct, Mr. W. J. Grant, Bassaleg, Newporl, Monmouthshire,
was a very good first. The same exhibitor was also first for one dish of
dessert Apples, and for six dishes of dessert Pears, all very fine.

For six dishes of dessert fruits, C. Lee Campbell, Esq., took leading
honours with beautifully finished Muscat of Alexandria and Alicante
Grapes, fine Blenheim Orange Apples, Beurie Diel Pears, Imperial
Green Melon, and fine Medlars. Sir J. Pulley, was a good second, and
J. Rankin, Esq,, M.P., third; the same exhibitor taking most of the
Grape prizes. Mrs. Evans and Sir J. Pulley took the Tomato prizes in
the order named. For a collection of hardy fruits and nuts, Mr. J,
Watkins was first with a highly interesting exhibit.

Special prizes were given for collections of Apples and Pears by
Mr. J. Watkins and the English Fruit and Rose Co., which were won by
Mr. W. J. Grant, Mrs. Evans, and Sir J, Pulley. It would occupy too
much space to name the exhibitors in all the classes, but in every case
the fruit was highly creditable, and proved conclusively what Hereford¬
shire can do as a fruit-growing county. The Society are also extremely
fortunate in having an excellent Secretary — viz., Mr. John Ough, who
has worked hard to make the Show a success.

On the closing day of the Show a fruit conference was held in the
Shire Hall, which was filled with a highly interested audience, and much
information circulated on fruit culture. Papers were read on “ Fruit
Growing as a Commercial Industry,” by Mr. J. Cranston. “ The
Gathering, Storing, and Marketing of Apples and Pears,” by Mr. J.
Watkins ; and the “ Cultivation of Grapes and Tomatoes,” by Mr.

S. T. Wright.

YORK. — November 15th, 16th, and 17th.

The fourteenth annual Chrysanthemum Show, under the auspices
of the Ancient Society o.^ York Florists, was held in the Fine Art Exhi¬
bition buildings of the city. The number of entries showed a slight
falling off from those of last year, more especially in the section de¬
voted to cut blooms, but the customary high quality was ably main¬
tained. Groups were a great feature, the whole of the floor of the
central hall being reserved for their accommodation. Taken as a whole
they w’ere excellent, admirable taste having been displayed in the

476

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 23, 1893.

arrangements. The Japanese blooms were very fine, and the incurve 1
were of exceptional excellence. Bouquets of Chrysanthemums and
baskets of the same flowers were largely staged. Superior taste was
displayed in the arranging of the flowers, and the effect produced was
consequently striking and highly beautiful. The management of the
Show in the energetic hands of Mr. J. Lazenby, the Secretary, and
the Committee were excellently carried out, and high praise must be
accorded these gentlemen for their efforts. We append a list of the
prizewinners in the principal classes, space not allowing us to give
details of all.

Iq the class for a group of Chrysanthemums interspersed with
foliage plants, Mr. G. Slater, gardener to Mr. Alderman Close, The
Hollies, was first. The arrangement was excellent. Palms, Asparagus, and
other plants having been utilised to much advantage. In addition to the
first prize a handsome silver cup was given in this class. Mr. McIntosh,
gardener to J. T. Kingstone, Esq., Clifton, York, was a close second
with a highly creditable exhibit ; Mr. J. R. Dawe, gardener to Dr.
Bedford Pierce, The Retreat, York, being third ; and Mr. Smallwood,
gardener to H. Leetham, Esq., Burnholme, York, fourth. An extra
prize was deservedly accorded to Mr. J. Sinclair, Blake Street, York.
In the class for a group of Chrysanthemums, arranged for effect in a
space not exceeding 80 square feet, Mr. E. Everard, gardener to Mrs.
Gutch, Holgate Lodge, York, was first with an admirable exhibit. The
plants were carrying good flowers and stout healthy foliage. Mr; J.
Hunt, gardener to J. Sinclair, Esq., York, was accorded the second
position ; Mr. S. Hardcastle, Huxley Road, York, being third ; and Mr.
J. Year, gardener to Miss Steward, Bishopthorpe, York, fourth. Mr. R.
Hudson, Acomb, York, was a splendid first foragroupof Chrysanthemums,
the class being open to amateurs within a five-mile radius of York. The
plants were excellent examples of cultural skill. The second prize
went to Mr. George Hudson, Lowther Street, York ; the third to Mr.
J. Pillmoor, I, George Terrace, York ; and the fourth to Mr. J. Emms.
For four incurved plants, distinct, Mr. W. Dickenson, Gale Lane,
Acomb, York, was awarded the premier position and a silver medal,
with handsome specimens of Mr. Bunn, Lord Wolseley, Mrs. G. Rundle,
and Robt. Cannell. Mr. Everard took the second position, and the
third to Mr. W. Dodd, gardener to the Hon. Claud Lambton, Grove
Lodge, York.

For one incurved, distinct, Mr. Everard was first with Mrs. Dixon,
Mr. Dickenson second with Mrs. G. Rundle, and Mr. Slater third with
the same variety. Mr. Everard was a good first for four Japanese
specimens, distinct, staging Mrs. Gutch, Val d’Andorre, Madame de
Sevin, and Mdlle. Lacroix in fine form, Messrs. Year and Slater being
second and third in the order named. The first prize for a single
specimen Japanese went to Mr. Everard for a grand example of Madame
de Savin, the second to Mr. Dickenson for Sarah Owen, and the third
to Mr. Year for Yal d’Andorre. Mr. Year was first in the class for
four reflexed specimens, showing Golden, White, and Pink Christine,
and Cullingfordi, all splendidly flowered. Mr. Everard was first for
one re flexed with a grand plant of Golden Christine, Mr. Year second
with the same variety, and Mr. Dobbs third with Chevalier Domage.
Mr. T. Smith, Norwood Nursery, Beverley, was first for four specimen
Pompons, showing superb plants of White Cedo Nulli, Salamon, Golden
Mdlle. Marthe, and Soeur Melanie. The second and third prizes went
to Messrs. Year and Dawe respectively. Mr. Smith was again first for a
single specimen Pompon with a superb example of White Cedo Nulli ;
Mr. Dickenson being second with Mdlle. Marthe, and Mr. Year third
with Mr. Astie. For a single specimen Anemone flowered plant Mr.
Dickenson was first with Soeur Doroth4 Souille, Mr. Everard second
with the same kind, and Mr. Year third with Margaret de St. Yallan-
gossie. In the class for six Chrysanthemums, any varieties in 7-inch
pots suitable for decorative purposes, Mr. Smith was a good first with
Golden and White Cedo Nulli, Soeur Dorothy Souille, Salamon, Black
Douglas, and Soeur Melanie ; Mr. Everard second with a charming exhibit.

The principal class in the cut bloom section was for thirty-six blooms,
half to be Japanese, and the remainder incurved, not less than twelve
distinct varieties of each to be staged. The premier prize went to Mr.
Ritchings, gardener to Dr. Frankland, Red Hill, who staged superb ex¬
amples, more especially amongst the incurved. The stand was composed
of Japs — back row ; Edwin Molyneux, Etoile de Lyon, Florence Davis,
President Borel, W. H. Lincoln, Edwin Molyneux. Middle row: Yiviand
Morel, Robert Owen, Chas. Shrimpton, Princess Yictoria, Mrs. Falconer
Jameson, Yiviand Morel. Front row : Robert Owen, Mons. Bernard.
Lord Brooke, Etoile de Lyon, Mrs. Nevill, and Mrs. E. W. Clarke,
Incurved — back row : Golden Empress, Empress of India, Lord Alcesler
Mrs. Robinson King, Empress of India, Golden Empress. Middle row :
Jeanne d’Arc, Yiolet Tomlin, Queen of England, Lord Alcester, Queen
of England, and Mrs. Robinson King. Front row : Miss M. A. Haggas,
Princess of Wales, Madame Darrier, Princess Teck, Mrs. S. Coleman, and
Jeanne d’Arc. The second prize went to Mr. G. Haigh, gardener to
W. H. Tate, Esq., Woolton, Liverpool, whose exhibit was particularly
strong in Japanese, the best of which were Mrs. C. Harman Payne,
Chas. Davis, W. H. Lincoln, and Mrs. Falconer Jameson. The incurved
were generally somewhat weak, Mons. R. Bahuant, Jeanne d’Arc, and
Lord Wolseley being amongst the best. Mr. Folkard, gardener to Sir
J. R. Walker, Bart., Sand Hutton, York, was a fair third. There were
four competitors in this class, and the competition was remarkably
keen. For twenty-four blooms, half incurved and half Japs, in distinct
varieties, Mr. G. Anderson, gardener to A. Milnthorpe, Esq., Tower Hill,
Cottall, was a good first, staging Japs— back row : Stanstead White,
liitoile de Lyon, Puritan, and Boule d’Or. Middle row : Sarah Owen,

W. W, Coles, Belle Paule, Mdlle. Lacroix. Front row : Gloire du
Rocher, Mont Blanc, Yal d’Andorre, Sunflower. Incurved — back row :
Yiolet Tomiin, Mrs. Heale, Lord Wolseley, Empress of India. Middle
row : Jeanne d’Arc, Baron Beust, White Beverley, Mr. Bunn. Front
row : Mr. Brunlees, Princess of Wales, Cherub, and Princess Beatrice.
Mr. Folkard was a good second, his Japanese especially being refined
blooms. The third prize went to Messrs. G. Longster & Son, Malton,
and the fourth to Messrs. J. Horsley & Sons, Malton. Mr. Folkard
was first for twelve incurved, distinct, staging — back row: Jeanne
d’Arc, Princess of Wales, Mons. R. Bahuant, Golden Empress. Middle
row : Robert Cannell, Lord Alcester, Queen of England, Mrs. W.
Shipman. Front row : Miss M. A. Haggas, Yiolet Tomlin, Cherub,
and Mrs. S. Coleman, Messrs. Longster and Son being second.

Mr. J. Haigh was first for twelve Japanese, distinct, with handsome
blooms of— back row : Chas. Davis, W. H. Lincoln, G. C. Schwabe,
Mrs. C. Harman Payne. Middle row : Boule d’Or, Florence Davis,
Etoile de Lyon, Mons. A. E. Carriere. Front row : Edwin Molyneux,
Lord Brooke, Puritan, and Gloire du Rocher. Mr. D. Williams, gardener
to the Earl of Feversham, Duncombe Hall, Helmsley, was second with
a highly creditable exhibit ; Mr. D. Dickenson, gardener to W. B.
Richardson, Esq., Elm Bank, Hull, being third. For six Japanese, one
variety, Mr. Anderson was first with Boule d’Or ; Messrs. J. Horsley
and Son second with Yiviand Morel ; and Mr. D. Williams third with
W. H. Lincoln. Mr. Ketchell, gardener to C. H. Simpson, Esq., Moor-
top House, Ackworth, was first for twelve Anemone-flowered, in not less
than six varieties, with Delaware, Nelson, Sabine, Mrs J. Benedict,
Jeanne Marty, Mrs. R. Owen, and Gladys Spaulding. Mr. Dickenson
was second ; aud Mr. Keightley, gardener to G. Whitehead, Esq.,
Deighton Grove, York, third. For six reflexed blooms, distinct, Mr.
J. Haigh was a grand first with Golden and White Christines, Dr. Sharp,
King of Crimsons, Fred Hart, and Chevalier Domage. Me.'srs. Dicken¬
son and Ketchell were second and third in the order of their names.
Mr. Lunt, gardener to H. Stourton, Esq., Holme Hall, York, was
accorded the premier position for six distinct singles, Mr. Ketchell
being second, and Mr. S. Hardcastle third. In the ciass for eighteen
blooms, distinct, with the first prize of which went the “ citizens’
challenge prize, tc be competed for by growers residing within a five
mile radius of York, Mr. Dickenson was first with Yiviand Morel,
Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Sunflower, Stanstead White, Puritan, W, H.
Lincoln, Florence Davis, Gloire du Rocher, Mrs. Falconer Jameson,
Avalanche, Edwin Molyneux, and Gloriosum Japs ; Emily Dale, John
Lambert, Golden Empress, Yiolet Tomlin, John Salter, and Jeanne
d’Arc incurved. The second, third, and fourth prizes went to Messrs.
Everard, Keightley, and Year in the order of their names.

Miscellaneous exhibits included magnificent vegetables and fruit
grown in the neighbourhood of York ; a collection of Apples from
Messrs. Backhouse & Sons, nurserymen, also a number of grand Conifers
and Evergreens from the same firm ; and Potatoes, Artichokes, Onions,
and Beet in excellent condition from Messrs. Kent & Brydon, seedsmen,
Darlington.

CHUDLBIGH. — November 16th.

The fourth annual Show was quite the best of the series, and
rivalled that of Exeter in point of merit. The competition was not
extensive, but the exhibits were good in quality.

The principal class for thirty-six cut blooms, distinct, half incurved
and the remainder Japanese, for which a silver cup was offered by Lady
Clifford, Mr. G. Foster, gardener to H. Hammond Spencer, Esq.,
Teignmouth, was an easy first with well developed blooms in both
sections. Mr. Stiles, gardener to Miss Fripp, Teignmouth, second, and
Mr. Yeale, gardener to the Rev. A. H. Simms, The Rectory, Newton
Abbot, third.

Mr. Stiles won the premier award for twelve Japanese, followed by
Messrs. Foster and Yeale. Mr. Foster was first for six Japanese, and
also for six of any white variety. Mr. Stiles won in a similar class for
six any yellow variety, Messrs. Foster and Yeale following. Mr. Foster
won for twelve incurved, Messrs. Stiles and Yeale following in the order
here given. The same order was maintained in the class for six incurved.
Mr. Yeale gained the premier award for six Anemone blooms with a
creditable stand. Mr. J. Clack secured the principal prizes in the
amaturs section with creditable exhibits.

Table decorations and sprays were a feature of the Show. In the
former Miss Somerville was the most successful ; Mrs. W. J. Col will,
Newton Abbot, easily outdistanced the other competitors.

Groups of Chrysanthemums as well as miscellaneous plants arranged
for effect made a commendable display. Mr. E. Daw was the most
successful in the former, while Mr. A. Abraham, gardener to the
President, the Right Hon. Lord Clifford, Ugbrook Park, Chudleigh, was
an easy winner in the latter class. The last named staged by far the
best vegetables in the various classes set apart for them.

MELTON MOWBRAY.— November 16th and 18th.

The first Exhibition of the Melton Mowbray Chrysanthemum Society
was held on the above dates, and the Committee are to be congratulated
on the success of their initiating efforts. The room in which the Show
took place had a very bright and charming appearance. Two long
tables were in the centre, containing the cut blooms, and at the sides
were nine competitive and several non-competitive groups. Mr. Whait,
gardener to W. Chaplin, Esq., was first with an excellently arranged
group containing many good flowers, and was well finished with small
Palms, Crotons, and Ferns. Mr. Bolton, gardener to W. Billson, Esq.,
was second, and Mr. Russell, gardener to Capt. Williams, third.

Kovember 23, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

477

In the open class for twenty-four blooms, twelve Japanese and twelve
incurved, Mr. J. Underwood, gardener to R. Walker, Esq., Bnderby
Hall, was first with good blooms of Viviand Morel, Condor, Mrs. Falconer
Jameson, Mdlle. M. Hoste, Edward Molyneux, Sunflower, Mons.
Bernard, Etoile de Lyon, Boule d’Or, Puritan, Col. W. B. Smith, and
Florence Davis for the Japanese, and Empress of India, Mrs. Robinson
King, Queen, Lord Alcester, Miss M. A. Haggas, Prince Alfred, Prince of
Wales, Lord Wolseley, M. Barrier, Jeanne d’Arc, Mrs. Coleman, and
Princess of Teck for the incurved. Mr. H. Rogers of Gipsy Lane
Nursery, Leicester, was second, and Mr. Smith of Loughboro’, third. In
this class Mr. H. Dunkley, gardener to S. Syminton, Esq., Market
Harboro’, showed an excellent twelve incurved b'ooms — the best in the
exhibition — but through the falling off in his Japanese he was not placed
amongst the prizewinners. Here is a strong argument in favour of
separate classes for incurved and Japanese for small shows. The local
classes were well filled, but many of the exhibits were of a poor nature.

Fruit was good in quality. Grapes beintr excellent. The non-com¬
petitive exhibits were plentiful, and added much to the attractiveness of
the Show. Mr. W. K. Woodcock exhibited a magnificent wreath, and
was first for a hand bouquet of Chrysanthemums. A special feature was
the specimen plants which were numerous.

LINCOLN. — November 16th and 17th.

The eleventh annual autumn Exhibition was held in the Drill Hall,
and was generally a success. The Shows of this Society have long been
noted for the excellence of its groups of miscellaneous plants arranged
for effect, this year they were even better than in the past. The
arrangements under the guidance of Mr. Holmes, the Secretary, were
satisfactory.

The principal class was for a group 12 feet square, composed of
Chrysanthemums and other plants arranged for effect, and a grand
display was made in the centre of the building. Mr. C. Foster,
gardener to R. Dawson, Esq., Lincoln, won the coveted award with a
magnificent group charmingly arranged. The base or groundwork of
the group was composed of moss, from which rose well developed Crotons,
single stems, beautifully coloured, intermixed with other choice plants
all elegantly arranged. Mr. A. Wipf, gardener to W. C. Cockburn,
Esq., Hartsholme Hall, Lincoln, was a good second, and Mr. W. Herring,
The Nurseries, Lincoln, third. In the class for a Chrysanthemum
group arranged for effect along with green foliage plants in a semicircle
Messrs. Foster and Wipf occupied similar positions as in the former
class. Mr. W. Mitchell, gardener to W. J. Warrener, Esq., Swallowbeck,
Lincoln, third. The best specimen Chrysanthemums were those staged
by Mr. Wipf in the class for six, being freely flowered and not too for¬
mally trained. Mr. G. Temple, Lincoln, was second. These two exhibitors
changed places in the class for three standards. Palms, C^cads, Ferns,
table plants made a good display. In the three former classes Mr.
Wipf was the most successful, Mr. Foster winning in the latter. Orchids
were well shown by Messrs. Foster and Wipf.

Cut blooms were of fairly good quality. In the principal class —
that for forty-eight, half incurved and the remainder Japanese, there
were but three entries, Mr. F. Thornton, gardener to C. E, Marfleet,
Esq., Lincoln, won the premier position by the superior quality of the
incurved blooms, the best being Robt. Cannell, Princess of Wales,
Golden Empress, J. Doughty, Lord Wolseley, and Princess Teck. The
best of the Japanese were Sunflower, Avalanche, F. Davis, Miss
A. Hartshorn, Mrs. C. Wheeler, Mrs. F. Jameson, and Vice-President
Audiguier. Mr. Wipf was second, and Mr. J, Burrows, gardener to
Sir H. Bennett, Lincoln, third. For twelve incurved, Mr. A. Wilcox,
52, London Road, Spalding, was first ; Mr. Wipf second. In the class
for six Japanese, six reflexed and six incurved, Messrs. Willcox, Wipf,
and Mitchell were placed in the order here named, Mr. Wipf had the
best of five stands of twelve reflexed, really good blooms. Mr. G. Burrows
second. Messrs. Wipf and Wilcox shared the honours in the class for
twelve Japanese, both showing good blooms. Anemone varieties were
well represented by Mr. Wipf in the classes for Japanese and the
ordinary show type. Mr. Burrows second in each class. Viviand Morel
won for Mr. Wipf the premier award in the class for six, any one variety
Japanese. Single-flowered varieties were well shown by Mr. J. Bugg,
Lincoln. The premier incurved bloom in the Show was Princess of
Wales from Mr. Wipf, and the premier Japanese was Viviand Morel
from Mr. Thornton.

A room was specially set apart for table decoration to be shown under
artificial light, and a very commendable display was made. Miss Ellison,
The Manse, Bracebridge, Lincoln, won the first prize for the best laid
out table for six persons, Chrysanthemums being the only flowers
employed with any kind of foliage. Mr. Colebrook, Grimsby, second ;
and Mrs. F. E. Cole, Hundleby, Spilsby, third. Messrs. Perkins & Son,
Coventry, was an easy first for a table of 12 feet by .3 feet filled with
bouquets and wreaths. Mr. J. Illman, florist, Nettleham Road, Lincoln,
was a good second ; and Mr. Colebrook, third.

SHEPTON MALLET. — November 16th and 17th.

The third annual Exhibition of Chrysanthemums, fruit, and
flowers was held in the Town Hall on the above dates, and was
considered to be an improvement upon previous shows held in this place.

Groups were numerous and, for the most part, arranged with good
taste. Mr. J. Webb, gardener to Miss Davis, Oakhill, Shepton Mallet,
was first in the principal class with a fine arrangement, Mr. H. Phillips,
gardener to Dr. J. F. Fry, was second, and Mr. Mackenzie, gardener to
A. T. Somerville, Esq., Binder, Shepton Mallet, was a creditable third.

In the open class for three incurved and three Japanese plants, single
stems, Mr. J. Webb was first, showing six grand plants nearly 6 feet over,
in fine condition, and profusely flowered. Single and double flowered
Primulas were well shown by Messrs. J. Allen, E. F. Hall, and J. Webb.

In the class for twenty - four blooms, twelve incurved and
twelve Japanese, distinct varieties, four good stands were arranged.
Mr. W. R. Williams, gardener to J. F. Hall, E.sq., Binder, Shepton
Mallet, was first, Edwin Molyneux, Florence Davis, W. H. Smith,
Madame John Laing, Waban, Puritan, Sunflower, Viviand Morel, John
Salter, Lord Alcester, Miss M. A. Haggas, Golden Empress, and Queen
of England (the best bloom in the Show) being the most prominent.
Mr. Webb was a good second, and Mr. J. B. Payne, gardener to the
Lord Bishop of Bath and Wells, The Palace, Wells, was a creditable
third. Messrs. W. R. Williams and J. Webb had the two best stands
of twelve blooms in that order.

Fruit was not shown very plentifully, but what was staged was of
good quality. Messrs. Brown & Sons, Frome, secured premier position
with very good bunches of Muscat of Alexandria, Mr. Payne being
second with Black Alicante in good condition. Mr. Payne was first for
both dessert and culinary Apples. Mr. J. Webb, obtained first place
in a fairly good Pear competition with fine examples of B4urr6 Diel,
Mr. R. Isgar, Wells, taking second place with fruits of Glou MorQeau,

Messrs. Browne & Sons, Priory Nurseries, Wells, contributed seventy-
two dishes of Apples, eleven dishes of Pears and Medlars, all in fine
condition.

DUBLIN. — November 16th and 16th.

The Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland held their winter Exhi¬
bition in the spacious hall at Ball’s Bridge, Dublin, on the 16th and
17th. Cut blooms were the leading feature, plants, as a rule, were
getting a little past their best. Lord Ardilaun’s prize for a group of
thirty plants staged on a space of 14 feet by 7 feet was taken by
Mr. Watt, gardener to Mrs. Pease of Willow Park, who was closely
followed by Mr. Stewart with an exceedingly fresh and bright group not
quite so large in the blooms ; third F. A. Millar, Esq. In the separate
classes of six each, incurved, Japanese, reflexed, and Anemone, Mrs.
Pease took all before her, and also took first for a single specimen with
a grand W. H. Lincoln.

In cut blooms the special class with lO-guinea cup and money added
for thirty-six, half Japs, half incurved. — First, J. G. Nutting, Esq. ;
second. Viscountess Ashbrook ; third, Earl of Clancarty. Mr. Nutting’s
special prize for thirty-six Japs in eighteen varieties brought out a strong
competition with thirteen entries. Mrs. Pease again took first ; second.
Lady Bury ; third, Earl of Clancarty. The prize added by Mr. Col¬
chester of Ipswich to the Society’s first prize for twenty-four incurved
was awarded to J. G. Nutting, Esq. ; second, Earl of Clancarty ; third,
Loyd Vaughan, Esq. For twelve incurved, Mrs. Pease again came to
the front. For twenty-four reflexed. — First, R. de la Poer, Esq. For
twelve reflexed. — First, J. L. Naper, Esq. While for the stand of twelve
Japs, Lord Gough took first honours. In a general survey of cut blooms
Colonel Smith, Lord Brooke, W. H. Lincoln, F. Davis, and Viviand Morel
were very prominent, the latter perhaps too much so. Everyone grows it,
everyone shows it, and, like its huge cousin Etoile de Lyon, it seems
overdone.

EDINBURGH. — November 16th, 17th, and 18th.

A MOST successful Exhibition was held by the Scottish Horticultural
Association in the Waverley Market on the above dates. The entries
were more numerous than at any previous show, and the exhibits
generally were quite as good. Lord Provost Russel opened the show on
the first day. Propitious weather favoured the efforts of the promoters,
and the attendance of the public was very large.

There was a desirable improvement noticeable on the pot plants
generally, those with which Mr. D. Caronagh, St. Edward’s, Murrayfield,
secured first prize for eight pots Japanese varieties, and for four pots of
the same being particularly good. With a fine Avalanche in the first
named class this exhibitor won the silver medal for the best plant in the
Show. Mr. J. Holmes, gardener to Mrs. Hamilton, Ogilvie, Winton
Castle, East Lothian, was first for four pots incurved varieties, and there
were many other classes for Pompons, as well as specially named
varieties. There were three groups of Chrysanthemums arranged for
effect on the floor, each group to be not more than 15 feet in diameter.
Mr. J. Petrie was first with a collection of plants with large blooms.
Mr. D. Jardine, Ravelston, second ; and Mr. Holmes third. In a similar
class for Chrysanthemums and other plants Mr. Wood, gardener to
J. Buchanan, Esq., Oswald House, was first. Among other plants shown
were good Zonal Pelargoniums, Roman Hyacinths, Primulas, Ferns, and
decorative plants. The cut flower section was well filled, the Japs
specially being large, well coloured, and fine.

The chief class was the City of Edinburgh prize, open to all, for
forty-eight blooms Japanese, not less than thirty-six varieties ; first, £20
cup; second, £10; third, £5. Mr. James Beisant, Castle Huntly,
Longforgan, secured the cup with even blooms, including many of the
best of the newer sorts. The most noteworthy were Viviand Morel,
C. S. Sharpe, G. C. Schwabe, Boule d’Or, Mdlle. M. Hoste, R. C.
Kingston, W. K Woodcock, Mrs. C. H. Payne, Colonel Smith, Cbas. S.
Shrimpton, Geo. Darrell, W. W. Coles, Avalanche, and Mme. Carriere,
Mr. J. Machar, Broughty Ferry, second, with very good blooms. Third,
Mr. Wm. Rushton, Corstorphine, and fourth, Mr. J. Carruthers, Corstor-
phine. The next class was open to Scottish gardeners and amateurs
only, the prize being the Scottish challenge cup, for thirty-six blooms,
not less than twenty-four varieties. Mr. D, Nichol, Rossie, Forgan-

478

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 23, 1893.

denny, secured this prize with a stand of very fine blooms, the second
and third prize stands also beint? good. Mr. Nichols’ stand included very
fine blooms of Btoile de Lyon, Mr. B. W. Clark, Viscountess Hambleden,
very fine Stanstead White, Viviand Morel, Edwin Molyneux, W. Tricker,
VV, H. Atkinson, Mons. Bernard, and J. S. Dibben. Mr. J. Kyles, Milburn
Tower, Gogar, second, and Mr. W. Rushton third. For twenty-four
Japanese, not less than twelve varieties, Mr. W. Rushton was first ;
second, Mr. J. Pirie, Sunderland Hall, Selkirk ; third, Mr. P. Geddes,
Knock Castle, Largs. For twelve Japanese, distinct, Mr. D. Alexander,
Eaglescairnie, Haddington, was first with a very good dozen ; second,
Mr. Rushton, and third Mr. Pirie. Several classes were devoted to six
blooms of one variety. Among these Avalanche (Mr. Geddes first),
Viviand Morel (Mr. Alexander first). Sunflower (Mr. Beisant first),
Edwin Molyneux (Mr. Nichol first), and Bouquet des Dames (Mr.
Rushton first) were extra fine.

The incurved and other section were far below the Japenese in
quality. For twenty-four incurved, Mr. J. Clark, Bannerfield, Selkirk,
was first. This stand included fine examples of Princess of Wales, Miss
Haggas, Violet Tomlin (best bloom in Show). Mr. Clark was first also
for twelve incurved.

In the class open to nurserymen for forty-eight blooms, Mr. H. J.
Jones, Lewisham, was easily first, securing also the prize for the best
Japanese. Messrs. R. B. Laird & Sons, Edinburgh, second.

Some good Grapes were shown. In the class for four distinct varie¬
ties, Mr. Leslie, Pitfour, (Perth, was first, showing good clusters of
Alicante, Gros Colman, Lady Downe’s, and Muscat of Alexandria. Mr
Murray, Park Hall, Polmont, second ; and third Mr. Caldwell, Ashley
Bank, Langholm. Mr. McNiel, Priorsford, Peebles, had the two
best Muscat of Alexandria, Mr. Leslie the best pair of Alicante, while
Mr. Murray had the best Lady Downe’s and the best Gros Colman. Two
collections of fruit in twelve varieties were shown. Mr. Mclntyr, The
Glen, Peebles, first ; and Mr. D. Murray, gardener to Marquis of Ailsa,
Culzean, Ayr, second. Apples were a feature of the Show. They have
never been better coloured, though perhaps larger has been seen. The
competition was keen, with many entries for the prizes. Mr. Wilson
Auchencrum, Ayr, was first for six dishes culinary ; and Mr. Craw, West
Foulden, for sixteen dessert. For eighteen varieties Apples and six varie¬
ties Pears, Mr. Campbell, Singleton, AVales, was first with beautifully
coloured fruit ; and for the same number fruit grown in Scotland Mr.
Wilson was first.

Vegetables were particularly fine. Leeks, Cauliflowers, Brussels
Sprouts, Celery, and Parsley were extensively shown, and mostly very
fine in quality.

Miscellaneous exhibits included a large number of cut Chrys¬
anthemum blooms from Mr. Jones, Lewisham ; Carnations from
Mr. Campbell, High Blantyre. A table of plants and fine blooms
from Messrs. Methven «& Sons, Princes Street. Drawing-room decora¬
tions and bouquets from Todd & Co., Maitland Street. Some beautiful
examples of artistic floral arrangements from Mr. John Dorner, Princes
Street, and plants from Messrs. Laird & Sons, West Coates. To most of
these special awards were made.

SHEFFIELD. — November 17th and 18th.

A REALLY good Exhibition was that held in the Corn Exchange on
the dates named. Cut blooms created the principal interest, the
principal classes being for twenty-four incurved, not less than eighteen
varieties, the same conditions governing the class for Japanese.

Messrs. Drover succeeded in easily winning the premier award in
both the above-mentioned classes. The incurved were not large, but
were fresh and well finished. The varieties were Empress of India,
Golden Empress, Lord Alcester, Emily Dale, Miss Drover, Mrs. R. King,
Lord Wolseley, Alfred Salter, Mrs. Norman Davis, J. Doughty, Mrs.
W. Shipman, Mias M. A. Haggas, Princess of Wales, Hero of Stoke
Newington, Cherub, Princess Teck, Nil Desperandum, and Lady Dorothy.
Mr. Jellicce, gardener to F. Gossage, Esq., Camp Hill, Woolton, Liver¬
pool, second, with larger blooms, not so neatly finished. Mr. P. Blair,
gardener to the Duke of Sutherland, Trentham, Stoke-on-Trent, third.
The Japanese blooms were not of huge size, but possessed colour
according to the varieties, being fresh, and well staged. The names
were Etoile de Lyon, Vice-President Audiguier, G. C. Schwabe, Mrs.
E. D. Adams, Alberic Lunden, Viscountess Hambleden, C. Davis, Mrs.
C. H. Payne, Mrs. C. Wheeler, W. H. Lincoln, W. Seward, Golden
Wedding, Viviand Morel, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Mrs. F. A. Spaulding,
B. W. Clark, Princess Victoria, and Lord Brooke. Mr. Heany, gardener
to H. G. Schintz, Esq , Mossley House, Liverpool, second with heavy
blooms. Mr. Shoesmith, gardener to M. Hodgson, Esq., Croydon, was
a close third.

Mr. Blair won the premier award for twelve incurved with medium
sized fresh examples. Mr. Coombes, gardener to the Earl of Dudley,
Himley Hall, was second ; Mr. Jellicoe third. For six incurved Mr.
Shoesmith was first, Mr. Jellicoe second, and Mr. Walker, Hull, third.
Mr. Heany won with twelve Japanese, Mr. Jellicoe second. The last
named won with six Japanese, and also for six reflexed. Mr. C. Scott,
Sheffield, second in the latter class. Messrs. Scott and Redmill were
the principal winners in the local classes. Mr. Broomhead, Leopold
Street, Sheffield, won all the first prizes in the amateur classes, staging
remarkably good blooms.

Groups of Chrysanthemums were of moderate quality, the best
TOming from Mr. W. Redmill, gardener to J. G. Lowood, Esq., Five
u ii'’ gardener to Sir H. Watson, ShirecliSa

m ®cott, gardener to J. Colley, Esq.,

Sheffield, had the best specimen .Tapanese, Mr. E. Green the best

incurved, the various members of the Rundle family. Mr. G. Walker
arranged a remarkably pretty group of miscellaneous plants in the
amateurs’ division, winning premier honours easily.

BOLTON. — November 17th and 18th.

The seventh annual Show of the above Society was held in the
Albert Hall, and from every point of view was better than any previous
exhibition seen in Bolton.

For twenty-four cut blooms, Japanese and incurved, six staged,
Mr. R. Pinnington, gardener to Mrs. Banner, Blacklow House, Roby, near
Liverpool, secured premier honours with fresh and well coloured blooms.
The Japanese were Chas. Davis, Etoile de Lyon, Florence Davis, Viviand
Morel, Marie Hoste, Boule d’Or, G. C. Schwabe, E. Molyneux, Mrs. F.
Jameson, Viscountess Hambleden, Excelsior, and Col. W. B. Smith, and
the incurved Queen of England, Mons. R. Bahuant, John Lambert,
Rt. Cannell, Baron Hirsch, Empress of India, Miss M. A. Haggas,
Princess of Wales, John Salter, Mrs. Heale, Alfd. Salter, and Violet
Tomlin. The second honours fell to Mr. J. Craig, gardener to A.
Heine, Esq., Fallowfield, Manchester. Mr. P. Blair, gardener to the
Duke of Sutherland, Trentham, third. In the corresponding number of
miscellaneous blooms Mr. J. Craig was a good first. Mr. J. Bracegirdle,
gardener to W. H. Watts, Esq., Elm Hall, Wavertree, was second, and
Mr. R. Pinnington third.

For a stand of blooms arranged for effect Mr. J. Abbot, gardener to
Jas. Musgrave, Esq., jun., first ; Mr. W. Wainwright, gardener to Mrs.
J. K. Cross, Fernclough, Heaton, second ; and Mr. G. Rawson, gardener
to John Hejwood, Esq., J.P., The Pike, third. The latter had in the local
class the premier incurved bloom with Empress of India, the prize for
premier Japanese going to Mr. T. McGrigor, gardener to M. Howarth,
Esq., jun., for Viviand Morel. In the local classes for twenty-four
blooms a silver cup was presented by the President, R. K. Cross, Esq.,
and a spirited competition was the result, the prize being secured by
Mr. J. Gallon, gardener to John Harwood, Esq., Woodsleigh, for a very
fine stand. Mr. Chas. Jones, gardener to Mrs. Shaw, Wellesley House,
and who won a cup in this class last year, was a close second. The third
position was taken by Mr. John Wainwright, gardener to Mrs. B. Cross.
For twelve incurved Mr. Callow was again first, staging capital examples,
Messrs. .1. Wainwright and Chas. Jones following with good stands. For
twelve Japanese Mr. T. McGrigor exhibited fine, well built flowers,
Messrs. W. and J. Wainwright being second and third.

There were two groups of Chrysanthemum plants arranged, first
prize, including silver medal of Royal Horticultural Society, being taken
by Mr. J. Pownall, gardener to Martin Musgrave, Esq. ; and the second
by Mr. W. Wainwright. The miscellaneous groups, 10 feet diameter,
were good. The first prize carried with it the bronze medal of the
R.H.S., and this was won by Mr. Chas. Jones with an admirable arrange¬
ment, harmonising thoroughly in every way. The second was taken by
Mr. J. Wainwright with a pretty group well arranged, but containing
too much colour for the size of group ; the third, also good, being taken
by Mr. Pownall.

The trained and specimen plants were most creditable, the principal
prizetakers being Messrs. H. Shone, gardener to J. W. Makaut, Esq. ^
Mr. J. Hicks, gardener to Mrs. Haslam, Ravenswood ; J. Pownall,
J. Wainwright. Primulas, Roman Hyacinths, and table plants were
all in fine condition, the winners being Messrs. R. Allen, J, Callow,
Geo. Cross, gardener to E. Thwaites, Esq. ; and J. Pickthall, gardener
to T. H. Thwaites, Esq. The ball and bridal bouquets were excellent.
Mr . J. Moseley, Halli well , securing both prizes, which were well deserved.

Black and white Grapes were fairly well shown, the winners being
Messrs. Hicks and W. Wainwright. For vegetables the prizes went to
Mr. G. Corbett (gardener to A. Knowles, Esq.), Mr. R. Fairhurst, Mr,
J, Barnes, Mr, J. Fletcher, and Mr. R. Barlow.

Special prize for Roman Hyacinths, given by Messrs. Clibran,
Altrincham, was taken by Mr. G. Cross. Messrs. Clibran & Sons staged
four dozen blooms of Chrysanthemums, representing some of the newer
varieties. Mr. James Oakes, Darley Hall Potteries, had a fine display
of pottery. The prize for dinner-table for eight persons, arranged with
fruit and flowers for effect, was taken by Mrs. H, Walmesley, Bradshaw-
gate, Bolton.

HDYTON AND ROBY. — November 18th.

The second annual Exhibition of the above Society was held on
Saturday in the Huyton Park Hall, and was a great advance of what
was held last season, the competition in the cut bloom classes being very
keen. The principal prizetakers included Mr. Pinnington, gardener to
Mrs. Banner, Blacklow House, Roby, who took first prizes tor twenty-four
blooms, twelve incurved and twelve Japanese, twelve blooms reflexed
and Anemone flowered, six incurved in three varieties and six Japanese
in three varieties, two Palms, two Ferns, six pots Roman Hyacinths,
three dishes and one dish Culinary Apples, three dishes and one dish of
Pears, one dish dessert Apples ; and seconds for twelve incurved, six
Japanese and six incurved, three dishes dessert Apples, and six table
plants. The second in the twenty-four bloom class was taken by Mr.
Thos. Eaton, gardener to Jno. Parrington, Esq., Roby Mount, Roby. He
was also second for twelve Japanese and first for two splendidly coloured
bunches of Lady Downe’s Grapes. Mrs. Parrington taking the first
prize for the best arranged Epergne with a pretty combination of Roman
Hyacinths and Salvia splendens and Maidenhair Fern as foliage.

Mr. J. Rose, gardener to J. Kitchen, Esq., Fernwood, Huyton, secured
honours with twelve Japanese and Welve incurved, also for trained
plants, the award of merit being granted as well. For six Japanese and
six incurved Mr. W. Wharton, gardener to Jos. Royston, Esq., Huyton,

November 23. 1893. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

4 79

was first, also for six Primulas and Puinsettias. The prizes for plants,
incurved and Japanese, six of each, and group of plants, went to Mr,
W. Lyon, gardener to A. M. Smith, Esq., Bolton Hey, Boby ; and for
white Grapes, one Orchid and three dishes dessert Apples, to Mr. W.
Oldham, gardener to Jos. Beecham, Esq,, Ewanville, Huy ton.

An effective group of plants and a choice one of Chrysanthemums
was arranged (not for competition) by Mr. J. Wattie, gardener to J. A,
Willcox, Esq., M.Pq Parkside, Huyton ; certificates granted. The trade
were represented by the Liverpool Horticultural Co., Garston, for fine
stand of Orchids and plants in variety, and to Mr. H. Middlehurst,
seedsman, Manchester Street, Liverpool, for well berried Solanums and
other plants.

WQKK.foiitheWEEK..

FRUIT FORCING.

Peaches and Ifectarlnes. — Earliest Forced, House. — The trees
having been started, they must have sufficient water at the roots,
examining the border for ascertaining its condition, and if it is doubt¬
ful whether the soil be moist enough a good watering must be given,
supplying liquid manure to weakly trees. Fire heat should only be
employed at night to exclude frost, and by day to insure a temperature
of 50°, above which ventilate freely. A close, vitiated atmosphere must
be avoided after the buds commence swelling, syringing the trees in
the morning and early afternoon of bright days until the buds begin to
show colour ; then maintain a suitable moisture by damping the paths
and borders. Allow a little ventilation by the top openings of the
house constantly. Aim at slow, gradual development in the growths to
secure sturdy well expanded blossoms, with strong stamens and anthers
well laden with pollen, and the pistils stout and perfect. This is essen¬
tial to a good set of fruit.

Second Early Forced House. — The trees to be started for affording
fruit in May or early in June, must now be kept as cool as possible.
The lights having been removed, they may remain off until the weather
sets in very severe or snow falls, when they should be replaced, after
thoroughly cleansing, repairing, and, if need be, painting. The trees
will require little pruning if they have received proper attention in
disbudding, reserving only the growths needful for extension and next
year’s crop, and cutting out that which has borne fruit this year and is
not required. If the trees have been affected with brown scale nothing
assists in its destruction better than exposing the trees to frost.
Where the lights are fixed the trees may be syringed with water at a
temperature between 140° and 160°. This will bring off most of the
scale, then the trees can be washed with a solution of softsoap, 3 or
4 ozs, to a gallon of water, using a brush to dislodge the scale, and being
careful not to dislocate the buds. In bad cases it is advisable to go
over the trees a second time before they are tied to the trellis. Plenty
of space must be left in the ties for the swelling of the branches.
Remove the remains of mulching and any inert surface soil ; supply"
fresh turfy loam about 2 inches deep, chopped moderately small, and
adding a 6-inch potful each of steamed bonemeal and Thomas’s phos¬
phate, with as much as of both of wood ashes to every 3 bushels, incor¬
porating well. Ventilate to the fullest extent except when the weather
is severe, and see that the soil is kept properly moist.

Third Forced House. — The trees in this structure will be started with
the advent of February to ripen their fruit late in June or early in
July, and they should now be subjected to the same treatment as
advised for the trees in the second early house. It is a bad practice to
leave houses and trees unattended after the leaves fall until the time of
closing the structures, and favours insect pests immensely. The trees
can never be handled so safely, either for the needful cleaning and
pruning or eradication of insects as when the buds are least active,
which is as soon as the leaves have fallen, and the insects are reached
before they are obliged by cold to make their retreat to safe quarters.
Such pests as brown aphis live on the growths constantly. Any shoots
infested should be cleansed with a brush dipped in tobacco water. It is
a common practice to use houses of this kind for plants, especially
Chrysanthemums ; but it is fatal to that rest so essential to the success
of Peach trees, and a primary cause of the buds subsequently dropping.
The better plan is to let the water run out of the hot-water pipes, and
remove the roof lights.

Fourth House. — This can hardly be termed a forcing structure, yet
there should be means of affording a genial heat when the trees are in
blossom, and for accelerating the ripening of the fruit as may be
necessary, also for maturing the wood in cold districcs. It may be
analogous to a Peach case or covered wall, against which the choicest
raidseason Peaches and Nectarines are planted and trained, but the trees
do better on trellises about a foot from the glass. The house being
closed early in March, the trees will ripen their fruit early in August
and September if kept cool. They are now leafless, and should undergo
the process advised for the second early forced trees in every particular.
It is an old and excellent practice to empty the hot- water pipes and
remove the lights, leaving them off until the blossoms begin showing
colour, or admit air to the fullest extent in all weather, for no amount
of frost will injure the wood provided it is thoroughly ripe.

Late House. — Cut out all the wood that has borne fruit if not
otherwise required. Do not allow the soil to become dry, but give a
thorough soaking of water if necessary. If the wool does not ripen
well employ heat by day with moderate ventilation, and turn it off in
the afternoon, so as to have the pipes cool before the night, and then
open all the ventilators unless keen frost prevails. The house must
otherwise be kept cool by free ventilation and the fallen leaves cleared
away. Late Peaches are valuable, and when well grown good in quality.
If any of the trees grow too luxuriantly root-pruning and lifting must
be attended to without delay.

Unheated Houses. — The leaves of the trees in unheated houses against
south walls are off except where the trees are unsatisfactory, and such
should be lifted and the roots laid in fresh rather strong calcareous
compost nearer the surface. With proper treatment the crop for next year
will not be prejudiced. In lifting the trees do not manipulate the roots
too much, and do not lift them before the wood becomes firm. If the
drainage is defective it should be rectified, and soil of an unsuitable
nature removed. It is, however, almost useless trying to patch up bad
borders, and it would in most cases be more satisfactory to make new
ones. A 4-inch tile drain should be at the base, with a proper fall and
outlet to carry off superfluous water, with a foot of rubble over the
bottom of the border and above the drain, and if the drainage is covered
with a layer of old mortar rubbish it will insure the keeping of the
rubble open and supply lime. About 24 inches depth of soil is ample,
but it will need to be 30 inches at first to allow for settling.

Peaches and Nectarines like a firm soil. This should be strong, pre¬
ferably a calcareous clay — loam — the top 3 inches of a pasture, and
where the formation is limestone or chalk. If the soil is light add to it
a fourth part of clay-marl, dried and pounded, incorporating well
together. Soil of this character usually induces a stout short-jointed
growth, and the fruit is large, high coloured, heavy, juicy, and full
flavoured. The border need not be wider than a foot beyond the exten¬
sion of the roots in the first instance, adding to it as the roots extend.

A narrow border is in many respects superior to a large one. The
restriction of the roots entails more frequent supplies of water and
liquid nourishment with top-dressings and surface mulching, but the
results are better than in the wider border, as the food is supplied fresh,
and the trees are completely under control. The wide border may have
some part sour before the roots reach it, and in any case its freshness
is gone, and roots never thrive so well in stale as in fresh loam. If
any new trees are wanted they should be procured and planted with¬
out delay. In a Peach case fruit can be had from early July to the
beginning of October by a proper selection of varieties — say, Waterloo,
Hale’s Early, Dr. Hogg, Crimson Galande, Dymond, Goshawk, Royal
George, Alexandra Noblesse, Grosse Mignonne, Bellegarde, Gladstone,
Sea Eagle, and Golden Eagle — excellent Peaches in every respect.
Suitable Nectarines are Early Rivers, Lord Napier, Rivers’ White, Elruge
(some prefer Stanwick Elruge), Newton, Dryden, Pine Apple, Spencer,
and Victoria.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

Globe Artichokes. — Frosts have reduced the leaves considerably!
and it is now possible to take the requisite protective measures. Unless
either leaves covered with strawy manure to keep them from blowing
about, litter or ashes are banked well up around the plants, the best of the
crowns will be either killed or badly crippled during the coming winter.
When the best crowns are damaged by frosts, the early growths are
weak and the flowering stems feeble and late accordingly. As a rule
only a very small per-centage of seedling Artichokes are worth saving,
and if those of a worthless character have been duly marked, they may
well be rooted out, those reserved being protected.

Protectlngr Celery. — Unless Celery is well moulded up, it is a very
difficult matter to afford proper protection against severe frosts. It is the
stalks and coarser midribs that suffer most, and once they are badly
frozen decay soon spreads. Instead of leaving the whole of the leaves
exposed, the stalks only be covered with soil, the wiser plan is to bank
up the soil sufficiently high to bury about one-half of them, and the rest,
unless in very cold localities, may well be left unprotected. We some¬
times experience very severe frosts early in December, and no time
should be lost therefore before completing the earthing up. Compara¬
tive dryness of soil is essential, and the ridges should be well rounded.
Fresh dry straw and bracken covered over the tops of Celery will ward
off severe frost, but if in a wet state it may easily do more harm than
good. If protection must be afforded, let it be in the shape of boards
nailed together in the form of the letter V, and inverted over the rows
whenever necessary, as being the least trouble and the most effective in
the end.

Celerlac. — The “ bulbs” of Celeriac are far from being hardy. They
may be protected against a moderately severe frost by drawing the
soil up to them much as Potatoes are moulded up, but in order to be
prepared for all emergencies some portion at least of the crop should
be lifted, and after having the tops trimmed off be stored in a cool
shed, enough fine soil or sand surrounding them to afford some protec¬
tion from frosts, and also to prevent premature shrivelling. Celeriac may
also be kept in a “ clamp ” or heap in the open, all being well covered
with straw and banked over with soil.

The Broccoli Supply. — Autumn Cauliflowers have not held out
nearly so well as usual, and autumn Broccoli have also been somewhat
coarse as well as earlier than desirable. Late plants of Veitch’s
Autumn Protecting are doing good service, but even these commenced
hearting prematurely. What are left should be taken care of. Very
severe frosts may spoil them, merely covering the hearts with large
old leaves being little avail against 10° or more of frost. They will pay

480

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 23, 1893.

well for being lifted with a fairly large ball of soil about the roots, and
then bedded in somewhat closely together in the pit of a cool vinery, or
in a deep brick pit, turf pit, or wooden frame. Some of the oldest
leaves may be removed, and if the tops do not smother each other, the
hearts will keep fresh for several weeks. Lifting and either laying or
suspending in either a cellar or shed will be the next best plan to
pursue, especially in the case of those with hearts nearly or quite fully
grown. If those with hearts only just commencing to form were also
lifted and stored in a pit or vinery, the roots being firmly surrounded
with rich soil kept constantly moist, these would soon recommence active
growth, and a good supply of small hearts be had at midwinter and later.
Snow’s Winter White seldom hearts in before February or March, but
this season there is a prospect of its being very much earlier. Some few
hearts are already showing, and if a portion of the breadth of this variety
were lifted and stored under glass, as advised in the case of late hearting
Veitch’s Autumn Protecting, there is every likelihood of their well
repaying for the trouble taken with them.

Successlonal and Iiate Broccoli. — In most cases the main crop and
late Broccoli have grown very strongly. Frost have given the desired
check to this late growth, but all the plants are so full of sap that they
will not withstand a severe frost. It is the stems however that are the
most susceptible of injury, and these should be protected. Heavily
moulding up the stems without greatly damaging the outer leaves
would be a desirable practice, but as a rule the rows are arranged far too
closely together for this to be done. Heeling in or laying down Broccoli
renders the plants hardier and assists in prolonging the supply.

%

HE BEE-KEEPER.

APIARIAN NOTES.

The Weather — Feeding.

With the exception of Panics, which are still working, all the
other bees have been very quiet during the past month of change¬
able weather. Frost has been frequent, but of short duration, the
lowest temperature being 21° on several occasions. Up till
November I3th the barometer was exceedingly high, standing at
30 40 for several weeks ; on the 14th it began to move, and on the
17th it registered 28 10, with the thermometer at an early hour at
50° with a drizzling rain, and bees active on the wing. It is
impossible to say what the coming winter will be, but judging
from the actions of certain animals, I should not be surprised it
will be of a mild nature.

If favourable weather prevails, the present is a good time to
change floors, for when solid they will be more or less affected
with damp, which is very injurious to both bees and hives. As I
find the hives are much lighter than they were two months ago, it
will be advisable to pay attention to the stores which the bees have,
and if short, supplement them by feeding with a few pounds of
syrup.

Hints for Beginners.

As there are numerous inquiries about the Lanarkshire
storifying hive, and as it is the most fitting season for amateurs to
be making preparations for the next summer, I have resolved to
give instructions on my favourite hive, which I have used for well
nigh half a century. In doing so I will not set forth the hive as
one of an ornate character, but as one specially adapted for the
preservation of bees, working them to their own and their owner’s
best advantage, both as a pastime and from a commercial point of
view. It is many years since I abandoned the fancy apiary for one
of utility ; but for all that the Lanarkshire hive can be made as
comely in appearance as any hive. At one time I used much fret¬
work, and otherwise adorned my hives with fancy painting ; but I
soon tired of such work. Having to move my hives long distances
to the Heather in common conveyances by land and water taught
that a hive to be suitable and profitable must be one of little
compass, and which could not be easily damaged.

I have still to take my bees to the Heather at Leadhills, about
fifty miles by road and by rail, and if our hives were but a little
larger they would one year with another be a losing concern. I
once started from home at three o’clock a.m. with ten hives and
some other articles upon a barrow to catch the boat at the Braemie-
law (about nine miles) at 7.20. On reaching Lamlash the tide was
ebbing, and the captain deemed it unsafe to land us at the quay, so
we had, with the assistance of those on board, our live cargo put
afloat in a ferry boat ; but as there was no landing place, and
the tide being against us, we had no alternative but to wade into
the sea and pull the bees ashore on the barrow. Another half or
three-quarters of a mile further up the “ brae ” I had my bees
safely set down and at work a little after two o’clock. The reader
may consider whether there is another hive that could be transmitted
the same distance, and in such a manner. — A Lanarkshire Bee¬
keeper.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Hogg & Eobertson, 22, Mary Street, Dublin. — Forest Trees, Conifers,
Fruit Trees, and Roses.

L4vgque & Sons, Ivry-sur-Seine, Paris.— Chrysanthemums,
Dahlias, and Other Plants.

•**A11 correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Books (IF. F. G.'). — Cooke’s “Manual of Botanic Terms” is what
we think you require. It is published by Mr. Hardwick, 192, Piccadilly
London, and can be obtained through a local bookseller. It is in¬
expensive. {G. F.'). — There is no book published of the exact nature
you appear to require.

Better (.7. Taylor'). — Your letter is received, and the enclosure has
been forwarded in accordance with your desire.

B.ucuba japonlca (IF. M. B.). — The pollen-bearing form of this
shrub was introduced by Mr. Fortune in 1850.

Cyprlpedlum luslg^ne ( (F. B. Tidy) — It is not very unusual for
Cypripedium insigne to carry two flowers on one stalk under superior
cultivation, and no doubt you have before grown the plant well.

Vlvland IVXorel Sport (tr. Marr). — The sport of which you send a
bloom is of no value. There are many better, but all are more or less
inconstant, and appear to refuse to be “fixed” for purposes of increase
and cultivation.

Extalbltlnir Chrysanthemums {J. C.M.). — In a class for “twenty-
four varieties (cut blooms) Japanese,” a stand containing two blooms of
any variety would be open to disqualification on the ground that only
twenty-three varieties would be included.

Exhtbltlngr Chrysanthemums (A. T.). — You ask if an exhibitor
would be disqualified by having an incurved Japanese amongst the
incurved blooms in a class described as follows : “ For the best twenty-
four cut blooms, viz., twelve incurved and twelve Japanese, not less than
twelve varieties, and more than three of any one variety.” Such a class
would admit twelve Japanese blooms, incurved or not, but admittedly
Japanese, and twelve incurved blooms, not of Japanese origin ; thirteen
Japanese blooms would not be within the conditions, and would invite
disqualification.

Bone Manures (F. J.). — The kind you have obtained is presum¬
ably the same as steamed bone flour. An analysis, showing the con¬
stituents of manures, should be supplied by vendors. Your mixture
would be good for general use, but if trees or plants are too slow in
growth they could be stimulated by a supplementary dressing of finely
powdered nitrate of soda, at the rate of half an ounce or little more to
the square yard in April, and as may be further needed ; but the potassic
and phosphatic manures must be in the soil as well for the best
permanent results to be forthcoming.

Tuberous Fungus Found Under an Old Oak Tree (A. S.). —
The tubers are not those of the true edible T.-uffle (Tuber sestivum), nor
belong to that genus, yet to the same order — Tuberacei. The true
Truffle is black outside, and the flesh, so esteemed for flavouring, is at
first whitish and tender, but afterwards becomes powdery, and not unlike
a Puff-ball, to which, however, it is not closely related. Four tubers are
those of Elaphomyces variegatus (muricatus), Vitt., white outside and
black inside, with white interlacing (variegated). This Truffle — all the
Tuberacei are popularly termed Tmffles — was formerly used in medicine,
but is now discarded. Whether it is edible or not we have no experience,
but field mice are extremely fond of the tubers, and are continually
scratching about for them. The botanist is guided to where this Truffle
is to be found by the appearance of a parasitic fungus (Torrubia
ophioglossoides, 7ul.), the spawn of which grows over a common moss
(Mnium hornum, Hedio-), and is running in search of the Truffles
(Elaphomyces variegatus), which usually grow from 4 to 5 inches
beneath the surface. If there are no Elaphomyces in the soil, the
mycelium of the Torrubia perishes, but in most woods where the moss
grows the Truffles are generally found.

Weed on Tennis Bawn QJ. R.) — There are several weeds called
Gill-run-the-ground. Had you sent a portion we might have recognised
it ; but that is not material, as you do not wish to interfere with the
ground, beyond applying something to the surface. If your employer

November 23, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

481

does not object to the grass being browned a little, as it must be if the
weeds are to be killed or prevented increasing, and the grass ultimately
encouraged, you can try the following mixture : — Sulphate of am¬
monia, 3 cwt. ; kainit, 2 cwt. ; reduce to fine powder, mix thoroughly,
and apply in dry weather — that is, with a prospect of no rain or snow
falling for some time. The above amount is for an acre. About the middle
of next February, or as soon after as the ground is thawed, you may
apply 5 cwt. per acre ol dissolved bones. The grass ought to be better
next year and the weeds fewer.

ITotospartluin Carmlcbaell (A. B. C.'). — You are right in
assuming that Notospartium Carmichaeli has been figured in the Journal
of Horticulture, but as the plant is not well known we reproduce the
illustration. Notospartium Carmichaeli is a New Zealand shrub of
slender habit, with somewhat flattened leafless stems and branches, or
with the leaves reduced to scale-like proportions. The neat pea-shaped
rosy-purple flowers are borne in dense clusters on the stems as shown in
the woodcut (fig. 69). In some districts this plant no doubt will be

the treatment accorded to hard wooded plants.

Cyclamen Roots Destroyed QCi/cla') — The roots of your plants
are being eaten by the larvm of the destructive weevil Otiorhyncus
sulcatus. These weevils feed at night, and with diligence and the aid of
a lantern many of them may be caught. Plants having their roots eaten
to iuch an extent that they can be “lifted out of the pot ” should be
taken out and immersed in a decoction of hellebore, made by placing 2 ozs.
of the powder in a gallon of cold water, then steadily brought to the
boil, and when cool enough the roots placed in it. The fresh soil should
be charred over a fire and then properly moistened before being used.

Cbemlcal IMCanures for Zonal Pelargoniums (_jVorthants').
—There is no such thing outside the imagination and the chemists
laboratory that favours any particular part of the plant or flower, for no
one chemical substance is a manure in itself, but is dependant upon
another for its efficacy. To enable a plant to produce fine trusses it
must be stored with nutrient matter by food supplied to the roots
and converted into the essential elements in stout, thick-textured,
healthy, clean leaves. Here is a mixture for this purpose after the
plants are well rooted in sweet firm soil : — Three parts pure dissolved
bones, two parts nitrate of potash powdered, one part sulphate of lime,
ground ; m'x thoroughly, and keep in a dry place. Use a thimbleful on
the surface of the soil in an 8-inch pot, oiher sizes in proportion, spread¬
ing evenly, and wash in. Repeat about every fortnight or three weeks,
as growth is required. Grown in plenty of light and air the plants will
throw up grand trusses. That is one of the great secrets, and when
they are beginning to open out add half a part of sulphate of iron to the

mixture — that is, taking the proportional parts of the whole, and it
will bring out the size and colours to perfection.

N'ames of Fruits. — Notice. — We have pleasure in naming good
typical fruits (when the names are discoverable) for the convenience of
regular subscribers, who are the growers of such fruit, and not col¬
lectors of specimens from non-subscribers. This latter procedure is
wholly irregular, and we trust that none of our readers will allow
themselves to be made the mediums in infringing our rules. Special
attention is directed to the following decision, the object of which is
to discourage the growth of inferior and promote the culture of superior
varieties. In consequence of the large numher of worthless Apples and
Pears sent to this office to be named, it has been decided to name only
specimens and varieties of approved merit, and to reject the inferior,
which are not worth sending or growing. The names and addresses of
senders of fruit to be named must in all cases be enclosed with the
specimens, whether letters referring to the fruit are sent by post or
not. The names are not necessarily required for publication, initials
sufficing for that. Only six specimens can be named at once, and any
beyond that number cannot be preserved. They should be sent on the
first indication of change towards ripening . Dessert Pears cannot be
named in a hard green state. QDr. Wallace'). — 1, Waltham Abbey
Seedling ; 2, Reinette de Caux ; 3, Cockle’s Pippin ; 4, not known,
quite second-rate ; 5, Scarlet Nonpareil ; 6, probably a seedling of no
value. (_Coombe Park). — 1, Vicar of Winkfield ; 2-3, Scarlet Pearmain ;
4, Lady Apple. (iV. H. P.). — General Todleben. (Ji H.)- — Large
Apple, Dutch Mignonne ; small one is a local variety. (F. E). — Rymer.
(Hills). — The fruit resembles Golden Queen imperfectly ripened.
( A. B.). — 1, Norfolk Bearer ; 2, Local ; 3, Golden Russet. (Y. N. R ). —
1, Grenadier ; 2, Manks Codlin ; 5, Greenup’s Pippin ; Pears, 3, Josephine
de Malines. The others are all rotten. A parcel has been received from
Hitchin without a letter or address.

iTames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed ffiorists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.

M.). — Lycaste Skinneri. (J/. D.). — 1, Tecoma capensis ; 2, Agave
americana. (Z. B.). — Veronica Andersoni variegata. (F. Geeson).—~
So far as we can judge from the imperfect dried specimen the Grass is
Triticum repens. The other is apparently an Eryngium, but it is im¬
possible to identify the species, the specimen being imperfect.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET. — November 22nd.

Trade very quiet. FRUIT.

s.

d.

s.

d.

d.

8.

d

Apples, per bushel .. ..

2

0 to 7

6

Peaches, per doz .

0

0 to 0

0

Cobs .

30

0

32

6

Plums, per half sieve . ,

0

0

0

0

Grapes per lb .

0

6

2

0

St. Michael Pines, each . .

2

0

6

0

Lemons, case .

10

0

15

0

vegetables.

s.

d.

8.

d.

8.

d.

8.

d.

Beans, Kidney, per lb. . .

0

3

to 0

4

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2 to 0

0

Beet, Red, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

0

Carrots, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

2

0

3

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . . . .

2

0

3

0

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

6

Celery, bundle .

1

0

1

3

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

4

H

Coleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Salsafy, bundle .

1

0

1

5

Cucumbers, dozen . . . .

1

0

3

6

Scorzonera, bundle .. ..

1

6

0

0

Endive, dozen .

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb .

0

3

0

0

Herbs, bunch .

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel .

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch .

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

7

Lettuce, dozen .

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Mushrooms, punnet .. ..

0

9

1

0

AVERAGE

WHOLESALE

PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.

Orchid Blooms in variety.

Chrysanthemum blooms very plentiful this season,

hence

the price is very low.

8.

d.

8.

d

8.

d.

s.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms ..

3

0

to 5

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

0 to 12

0

Azalea, dozen sprays . . . .

1

0

1

6

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

9

0

Bouvardias, bunch .. ..

0

6

1

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

Camellias, dozen blooms . .

1

0

3

0

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Carnations, 12 blooms

0

6

2

0

Primula (double), dozen

Chrysanthemums, dozen

sprays . .

0

6

1

0

bunches .

3

0

6

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis.

0

6

2

0

Roses (indoor), dozen

0

6

1

6

Eucharis, dozen .

4

0

6

0

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

0

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

„ Yellow, dozen .. ..

Q

0

4

0

Lilac (Fren'ch) per bunch

3

6

6

0

Tuberoses. 12 blooms. .

0

4

0

6

Lilium lancifolium, dozen

Violets, Parme (French),

blooms . . .

1

0

3

0

per bunch .

2

6

3

0

Lilium longiflorum.pordoz.

6

0

9

0

Violets, Czar (French), per

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

bunch .

2

0

2

6

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Violets (English), dozen

Marguerites, 12 bunches . .

0

4

0

bunches .

1

6

2

0

Mignonette, 12 bunches ..

0

4

0

PLANTS

IN POTS.

8.

d.

s.

d.

8.

d.

s.

d.

Arbor Vitas (golden) dozen

6

0 to 12

0

Ferns (small) per hundred

4

0 to 6

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Ficus elastica, each ..

1

u

/

6

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

Foliage plants, var., each..

2

0

10

0

Chrysanthemums, per doz.

4

0

9

0

Lilium Harrissi.per dozen

12

0

24

0

„ large plants, each

1

0

2

0

Lycopodiums, per dozen ..

3

0

4

.0

Dracaena terminalis, per

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . .

6

0

12

0

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Mignonette, per doz .

6

0

9

0

Dracmnai viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Ericas, per dozen . . . .

9

0

18

0

Palms, in var.. each ..

1

0

15

0

Euonvmus, var., dozen ..

6

0

18

0

„ (specimens) .. ,.

21

0

63

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

2

0

0

0

Ferns, lu variety, dozen . .

4

0

18

0

Solanums, per dozen,. ..

9

0

12

0

482

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ NoTcmber 23, 1893.

PROFITABLE LIVE STOCK.

So important is the question of the best cow for the dairy
farmer, and how to feed it, that we return to this subject this
week, in view of touching a few more points of practice, with
some facts bearing upon them.

If, as we hold, the keeping of an inferior cow is both foolish
and wasteful, it is surely owing to want of thought, a failing to
grasp this fact in its full significance, that such animals pre¬
dominate everywhere. All the food that a cow consumes,
beyond what is necessary to sustain life, should go to promote a
fully sustained milk yield up to a given standard, both in
quantity and quality. The average milk yield in the British
Isles is 440 gallons per cow, which means the yield ranges from
300 gallons upwards to 1000 gallons or more. A cow yielding
the lesser quantity is kept at a loss, at the greater quantity the
profit is so high as to exceed the bounds of all ordinary
calculations. Granted that 1000 gallons per cow is a yield so
extraordinary and exceptional that only a few of such marvel¬
lously deep milkers are met with in our best herds, yet we can
afford to fall from that high figure to a minimum of 500 gallons
and still have profitable cows. But no sensible man can possibly
rest contented even with such cows ; the net profit upon them
cannot be much more than £4, and the yield is in reality a very
low one. Ten quarts daily for 200 days make up the sum of it,
yet it falls below that. At the lowest computation a cow should
be in milk quite 250 days out of the 365 days of the year, and we
have often told of a small black Kerry cow which we had from
Dr. Hogg’s herd that gave 16 quarts of exceptionally rich milk
daily. It was a mere pigmy beside a huge Shorthorn, which at
best only gave 10 quarts daily — not by any means a fair
equivalent for the food consumed by it. Such large animals
must be deep milkers to be profitable. Extra outlay upon food
only answers for well-bred cows, it is comparatively wasted on
mongrel breeds.

According to a high authority an inferior cow costs £14
a year for its food, and yields a calf worth £1, and 400 gallons
of milk, which at 8d. is £13 6s. 8d , or a total of £14 6s. 8d.,
profit 6s. 8d. A superior cow costs £17 a’^year for^its food,
yielding in return a calf worth £2, and 700 gallons of milk
at 8d., or £23 6s. 8d — total, £25 6s. 8d.; profit, £8 6s. 8d. If the
milk of both cows was used for butter or cheese making, the
difference in the result would be much more in favour of the
supei’ior cow. It is also obvious that if the milk producer could
dispose of it to the consumer at the present ordinary retail price
of 4d. per quart his profits would be doubled. Truly a grand
business is that of the retailer of milk ! the eager competition,
the headlong rush of a dozen or more milk carts along every
suburban street or road of the metropolis twice daily is not to
be wondered at, even if new milk only was sold. But there is no
doubt that much separated milk is mixed with it and sold as
new, and police court reports often tell of an addition of 30 or
40 per cent, of water.

For the production of cheese or butter, quality is a prime
factor, dependent both on food and breeding. For example, the
milk of a Jersey cow yields 25 per cent, of cream, and when we
have such richness in combination with the desirable average of
700 gallons the result is certainly satisfactory. Cows of this
breed frequently yield much more than this; the famous Jersey
cow “ Luna’s” yield for three consecutive years was 876, 898, and
816 gallons, an average milk yield per year of slightly over

863 gallons, or almost double the ordinary annual average yield-
For the home farmer a herd of Jerseys is highly desirable,
though we must confess to a preference for the larger and more
robust Guernseys. Certainly for rich milk, for deep milking,
and for a well sustained yield the Guernsey ranks very high.

For the ordinary dairy farmer we give preference to our
favourites the Red Polled Suffolk cows, in which we have in
admirable combination deep milking and beef production. The
milk is rich, and the square fleshy frames are easily fattened.
Some of the best cows yield upwards of a thousand gallons
yearly, and the steers are equally remarkable for early maturity.
In the Whitlingham herd of this breed — a very large one —
especial care has been given to the selection of both males and
females from famous milking dams, with results so remarkably
in favour of an increased milk yield as to carry conviction of the
value of selection both for milk and for beef.

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

During the present and three following months butter difficulties
are wont to crop up, and all possible care must be exercised to guard
against them. For the daily churning avoid the milk from stale cows.
Under good management there is a fresh cow or two coming in every
month, and it is from their milk that cream for the daily churning
should be taken. Correct any tendency to the acridity that so often
renders butter unpalatable in winter by using a small teaspoonful of finely
powdered saltpetre to three gallons of cream ; a small pinch between
finger and thumb is sufficient for the daily churning. Just a modicum
of salt in the form of brine helps the flavour, but this requires a careful
hand, as the order which so frequently comes from head quarters of “ no
salt in the butter ” can only be ignored with advantage by a really
skilful butter-maker. It is just a question of palate tickling worthy of
best efforts, and a compliment upon good butter at midwinter is certainly
worth trying for.

Look well to the churning, have no bewitched cream, at which one
after another tries their hand for hours without bringing the butter.
Temperature must have attention ; 65° is the best temperature for cream
when it is put in the churn during winter. This is easily and best
managed by placing the cream jar in water slightly above that tempera¬
ture. Warm the churn with water at about 70°, which let run out just
before putting in the cream. There should then be no difliculty in
getting the butter quickly. The churning may be done more briskly in
winter than in summer, but there must be no violent or abrupt clashing
about of the cream at any time. Begin slowly, gradually increase the
speed, and when the butter grains appear gradually reduce the speed.
Never break the grain in churning, or the butter will not keep sweet.

Equal care must be taken with the cows and their food. We must
have a clean cow house, clean hands for milking, and clean milk pails.
For food use the best meadow hay. Carrots, bran, crushed oats. Cabbage,
or Thousand-headed Kale. The bulk of food is in the hay, with from a
gallon to a peck of bran, and half that quantity of oats at milking time.
A little Palm-nut meal may be added with advantage, but care must be
taken not to use enough Cabbage to affect the flavour of the milk.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,
Oamdbn Square, London.

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

Date.

9 A.M.

In the Day.

1893.

November.

jmeter
2°, and
Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Rain,

^ CO c8
cs It <1^
M sm

Dry.

Wet.

Wind.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Sunday . . 12

Inchs.

30-386

deg.

42-5

deg.

39-3

N.E.

deg.

43-4

deg.

45-6

deg.

37-0

deg.

69-1

deg.

32-3

Inchs.

Monday .. 13

30-126

33-4

32-9

N.E.

42-0

43-1

30-0

65-4

24-4

0 010

Tuesday . . 14

29-876

36-9

36-9

S.B.

40-9

42-0

31-3

42-6

27-8

0-594

Wednesday 15

29-751

40-1

39-9

N.E.

41-2

45-7

36-4

49-6

37-2

0-023

Thursday . . 16

29-935

45-2

44-3

S.B.

42-1

55-4

38-4

56-9

33-2

0-031

Friday 17

29-190

55-2

54-0

S.W.

43-6

58-0

43-0

72-9

39-6

0-154

Saturday .. 18

29.068

39-7

38-9

N.E.

44-4

42-4

37-8

49-0

35-4

0-277

29-762

41-9

40 9

42-5

47-5

36-3

57-9

32-8

1-089

REMARKS.

12tli. — Almost cloudless throughout.

13th. — Slight fog till 10 A.M., but almost cloudless throughout.

14th. — Very wet fog all day ; slight showers in afternoon ; steady heavy rain from
6.15 P.M.

15th. — Continuous heavy rain till 4 A.il., then overcast and dull; continuous drizzle
from 11.30 a.M. to 3 p.M. ; fair evening.

lEth. — Overcast morning; fair afternoon with gleams of sun; cloudy evening and
rain at midnight.

17th. — Slight showers early ; overcast from 8.30 A.il.; frequent sunshine from noon to
3 P.M. but a very slight shower about 1 P.M.; overcast after, with high wind
and heavy rain between 5 and 7 P.M.

18th. — Rain from 3 to 7 A.M., then overcast and rain from 1.30 P.M., changing to snow
about 3 P.M., which continued till after midnight, with a violent gale.

Temperature below the average, rainfall considerably above it. The total rainfall

this year, 16’85 in., is very nearly as much as fell in the whole of the year 1864. It is

therefore clear that 1893 cannot be unprecedentedly dry. — G. J. Symons.

NoTunber 30, 1893,]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

488

I AM very sorry to be so late in bringing out this analysis, but
having missed my opportunity early in the year through press
of other work, I have delayed completing it until the show time
came round again, thinking it would then be of more interest than
during the summer or early autumn months. At the Exhibition
held by the National Chrysanthemum Society at the Royal
Aquarium, Westminster, in November, 1892, the display of
incurved cut blooms was the smallest of which I have any
record. There were, however, rather more Japanese than at the
previous Show.

The following short statement gives the number of cut blooms
staged in the incurved and Japanese sections at the eight
exhibitions. The flowers shown in the classes for six blooms of
any one variety were not tabulated for the analysis, and therefore
have not been included in the totals.

1885

1886

1887

1888

1889

1890

1891

1892

Incurved .

. 839

1080

964

1147

682

1377

827

609

Japanese .

. 835

1026

1221

1759

922

2054

975

1033

1674

2106

2185

2906

1604

3431

1802

1642

Now that I have a complete set of records for eight years to
deal with, I am in a position to adopt a similar system of analysis
to that so successfully employed when dealing with the last Rose
and Dahlia analysis. This system I have endeavoured to explain
at page 358. The steady going incurved Chrysanthemums will not
be found in any way seriously affected by this improved method —
indeed, the relative positions of nearly all the leading kinds remain
practically as in the previous analysis. The table of the headstrong
Japanese has, however, become greatly changed, and I trust
improved since the last version of it appeared. I have gone most
carefully into the places accorded these Japanese varieties, and
endeavoured to give each its proper relative position in the list ;
but the changes in this section are so rapid, and there is such a large
accession of new sorts every year, that I have in many cases only
the records for a few years to guide me in placing them —indeed,
the careers of many of these Japs are so brilliant, and yet at the
same time so fleeting, as to make them in these respects more
resemble butterflies than well regulated florists’ flowers. However
trying to the analyst these startling chrnges may be, they indicate,
T must confess, very substantial progress. In order to give some
idea of the extent of the changes referred to, and at the same
time show how greatly the flowers themselves have improved, I
may mention that only five out of the first twenty-four varieties in
the table published only six years ago are now considered worthy
of places among the first twenty-four in the present analysis. Of
these five, Madame C. Audiguier has fallen since then from its
position as the premier flower to No. 19, Jeanne Delaux from
No. 3 to No. 10, and Val d’Andorre from No. 5 to No. 9. Boule
d’Or stands pretty well the same in both tables, and Mr. Ralph
Brocklebank, then quite a novelty, will be found at No. 16. If the
advance made during the short space of six years has been so
considerable as these alterations indicate, what glorious possibi¬
lities may there not be in store for us during say the next decade.
Already there are not wanting indicatioi^s in the comparative
tables before me of the speedy downfall of many varieties at the
present time in much request. Not only are the flowers of many

No. 701. — VoL. XXVII., Third Series.

of the modern varieties improvements on those of their prede¬
cessors, but the plants themselves, particularly as regards their
heights and constitutions, show a decided advance as well.

Empress of India once more heads the table of incurved
varieties, and deservedly so, as it appears to be a most reliable
Chrysanthemum. In certain seasons Queen of England, Lord
Alcester, and Golden Empress of India have not been far behind
the premier flower, and have each at a single show been staged
rather more frequently, but their records from year to year being
more unequal, they do not seem to have any chance of seriously
threatening its position. Lord Wolseley, Princess of Wales,
Golden Queen of England, and Novelty have never before been
better represented than they were last year. On the other hand
Alfred Salter, Prince Alfred, Barbara, Jardin des Plantes, Hero of
Stoke Newington, and Cherub at none of the preceding seven
shows have been as seldom staged in competition. Miss M. A.
Haggas and Violet Tomlin were also poorly represented.

In this section the newer varieties in the table, those dating
from 1889 and after, are eight in number. Of the 1889 incurved
Mrs. S. Coleman, No. 14, and John Doughty, No. 15, were equally
as well shown as at the previous Exhibition ; while Camille
B. Flammarion has improved on its performance in that year.
Madame Darier and Monsieur R. Bahuant, sent out in 1890, appear
for the first time in the table, and both at No. 23, while Ami
Hoste of the same year takes up a position at No. 37. The
still newer kinds, Mrs. Robinson King and Robert Cannell,
only introduced in 1891, will be found at Nos. 35 and 36 re¬
spectively.

Turning now to the table of Japanese varieties, as I said
before I have done all in my power to deal with them as fairly
and accurately as the data at my disposal will allow. The results
generally can never, however, be considered quite satisfactory
while this section remains in such a state of rapid transition.
That grand Jap., Edwin Molyneux, it will be noticed, is for the
time being the leading flower, closely followed by the snow white
Avalanche. The following established kinds, if they can be so
called, were less frequently shown than at any previous exhibi¬
tion : — Mr. Ralph Brocklebank, Jeanne Delaux, Madame Baco,
Madame J. Laing, Sarah Owen, Meg Merrilies, Carew Underwood,
Mdlle. Lacroix, Baronne de Prailly, Belle Paule, Mrs. C. H.
Wheeler, Mr. H. Cannell, Fair Maid of Guernsey, Criterion)
Marguerite Marrouch, Thunberg, Lady T. Lawrence, Yellow
Dragon, Mrs. J. Wright, Monsieur J. M. Pigny, Mrs. H. Cannell,
Comtesse de Beauregard, and four others. This is a goodly list,
and clearly shows how quickly many of the older favourites are
retreating before the advance of the new comers, although, of
course, this does not necessarily apply to every variety included
in it, as the disastrous effects of certain seasons upon particular
sorts is well known. But the question may naturally be asked,
“On the other hand, what ‘established’ Japs, were last year
staged oftener than at any previous show ? ” I answer, only
two ! Avalanche and Sunflower, the first an 1887 and the other
an 1888 variety.

No fewer than twenty-one Japanese Chrysanthemums which
have been sent out since 1888 already find places, and a fair pro¬
portion of them excellent places too, in the analysis. Looking
carefully down the table we first come to Viviand Morel (No. 4),
the sensation flower at the 1892 exhibition. This fine variety,
although only sent out the year before, appeared in more stands
than any other with the exception of Edwin Molyneux, Avalanche
and Sunflower, which are from three to five years older. Except
as regards its variability in colour it is indeed a sterling acquisition
in every way. Next comes Gloire du Rocher, sent out only in 1891
at No. 6. W. H. Lincoln (No. 6), an 1890 Jap., was also last year
surprisingly well shown. Florence Davis (1891) likewise made its
mark, and is pretty sure this year to rise even higher than its
present honourable position at No. 15. Louis Boehmer (No. 15)

No. 2357.— VoL. LXXXIX. Old Series.

484

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 30, 1893.

of the same year was also equally well represented. This is an
easily grown hirsute variety, but owing to its dull purple colour is
not, I think, likely to advance in popular favour. Mr. A. H. Neve
(1890) takes up a good place at No. 15. William Tricker (No. 27)
also introduced in 1891, stands well considering that this is its first
appearance in the analysis. Miss Anna Hartshorn (No. 31), first
sent out in 1889, was shown last year three times as frequently as
at the previous exhibition. We then reach an 1891 variety, Mdlle.
Marie Hoste, which, although new to the analysis, already stands
at No. 33. Mr. E. Beckett (1892) a still newer candidate for
honours will be found at No. 39. Then lower down follow
Coronet (1889) at No. 42, Alberic Lunden (1890) at No. 44, Mrs.
Alpheus Hardy, that delicately constituted white variety \\ith
hairy petals which all growers are so proud to stage in good con¬
dition, also at No. 44, M. E. A. Carri^re (1889) at No. 46, Beauty
of Castlewood (1892) at No. 48, Pink Lacroix (1889) also at No. 48,
Lilian B. Bird (1890) at No. 50, Cesare Costa (1890) at No. 52,
Mrs. Irving Clark (1889) at No. 52, Eynsford White (1889)
at No. 57, and lastly, Vice-President Audiguier (1890) also at
No. 57.

INCURVED

The above new varieties are placed in the list according to the
number of times they were staged at the Royal Aquarium Show
last year, in order to give them every possible chance of competing
with their more established brethren. There is, however, one
disturbing cause afEecting the very newest sorts in the table, but
these only, for which I am unable to apply any correction, and yet
which must in exceptional cases have considerable influence on
the positions they are assigned, for I am told that in some instances
it is impossible for a new variety to be well represented on its
first appearance, owing to the limited number of plants available
for distribution when it is first sent out.

The contrast between the incurved and Japanese sections is
very marked, whether we take the average ages of the leading
varieties or the changes from year to year. For instance, taking
the first twenty-four sorts in each case we find the average age of
the former to be twenty-one years, whereas the first twenty-four
Japanese average only six years. As I have already stated, only
five Japanese varieties which were classed among the first twenty-
four kinds six years ago are now to be found in the same number
of leading flowers. Treating the incurved varieties in (*ee p. 486)

VARIETIES.

Position in Present
Analysis.

Average Number of
Times Shown.

No. of Times
Shown in 1892 in
True Relative Propor¬
tion to the Average.

Name

Date of
Introduction.

Raiser’s

or

Introducer’s

Name.

Colour.

1

56-3

56

Empress of India .

1861

Downie, Laird & Laing

Pure white

2

51-6

58

Lord Alcester .

1882

Freemantle .

Pale primrose

3

49-6

50

Queen of England .

1847

J. Salter .

Delicate rose blush

4

46 3

38

Golden Empress of India .

1877

Loader .

Pale yellow

5

44-0

34

Miss M. A. Haggas .

1888

Hayes .

Soft bright yellow

6

42 5

34

Miss Violet Tomlin .

1888

Doughty .

Bright violet purple

7

40 3

50

Golden Queen of England .

1859

J. Salter .

Pale straw colour

8

400

34

Jeanne d’Arc .

1881

Lacroix .

Blush w’hite, tipped purple

9

37-3

50

Princess of Wales .

1865

Davis .

Blush, tinted rose

10

37 1

44

Lord Wolseley .

1883

Orchard . .

Bronzy red

11

36-0

17

John Salter .

1866

J. Salter .

Cinnamon, orange centre

12

33 3

20

Alfred Salter .

1856

J. Salter .

Clear lilac pink

13

32-2

16

Prince Alfred .

1863

Davis .

Rose carmine, shaded purple

14

30-5

30

Mrs. S. Coleman .

1889

Russell .

Bright rose, shaded yellow

15

30 0

30

John Doughty .

1889

Doughty .

Bronze fawn, suffused rose

16

27-0

24

Nil Desperandum .

1862

Smith .

Dark orange red

17

23-7

20

Lady Hardinge .

1861

Clark .

Silvery rose

18

23-6

24

Mrs. Heale .

1867

Heale .

Pure white

19

23-3

6

Barbara .

1869

J Salter .

Bright amber, shaded orange

Fawn colour

20

21-9

20

Mrs, W. Shipman .

1878

Shipman .

21

21-7

13

Jardin des Plantes .

1859

J. Salter .

Deep golden yellow

22

21-3

14

Princess of Teck .

1868

Pethers .

White, suffused pink

23

19-0

19

Madame Darier .

1890

Sautel .

Yellow, shaded purple

Rose purple

23

19'0

19

Monsieur R. Bahuant .

1890

Hoste .

24

17-2

6

Hero of Stoke Newington .

1873

Forsyth .

Rose pink

25

15-0

8

Cherub .

1862

Smith .

Orange, tinted rose bronze

26

13-7

8

Empress Eug4nie .

1866

Pethers .

Rosy lilac

26

13-7

11

Refulgens .

1873

Hock .

Rich purple maroon

27

13-3

6

Mr. Brunlees .

1884

Smith .

Indian red, tipped gold

28

13-2

11

Mr. Bunn .

1881

Bunn .

Bright golden yellow

29

13 0

13

Camille B. Flammarion .

1889

Sautel .

Dark violet

30

12 6

11

Princess Beatrice .

1868

Wyness .

Delicate rosy pink

31

12-4

5

Prince of Wales .

1865

Davis .

Purple

32

11-0

11

Alfred Lyne .

1888

Lyne .

Rose lilac

33

10-3

8

Lady Dorothy .

1887

Buss .

Cinnamon buff, suffused rose

34

10 0

5

White Venus .

1872

Shrimpton .

Pure white

35

9 0

9

Mrs. Robinson King .

1891

Hotham .

Rich yellow

Sd

90

5

Venus .

1863

J. Salter .

Lilac, suffused pink

36

8-5

6

Robert Cannell .

1891

Cannell .

Crimson and golden bronze

37

8-0

8

Ami Hoste .

1890

Sautel .

Buff yellow, striped carmine

38

7 5

2

Mrs. Norman Davis .

1886

Mizen .

Rich golden yellow

39

7-1

13

Novelty .

1860

Clark .

Blush

40

7-0

2

Charles Gibson .

1887

Mizen .

Bronze red, centre fawn

41

6-6

3

Beverley .

1863

Smith .

Cream white

42

6-4

6

Golden Eagle .

1863

Davis .

Reddish bronze, tipped orange

43

5-6

5

Baron Beust .

1868

Pethers .

Chestnut red, shaded yellow

44

5-4

0

Mabel Ward .

1882

Ward .

Buff yellow

45

5-1

5

Eve .

1865

Smith .

Cream white

46

5 0

0

Bronze Queen of England .

1886

Carter .

Bronze brown, tinted rose

d

0)

3

£.2

.9^

I.

.2-<1

■♦a

‘3

o

fM

1

2

3

4

5

6

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

15

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

27

28

29

30

31

32

33

34

35

35

36

37

38

39

40

41

42

43

44

44

44

44

44

45

46

47

48

48

49

50

50

51

52

52

52

52

52

52

53

54

55

56

57

57

57

57

58

59

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

486

JAPANESE VARIETIES.

Name.

Date of

Introduction.

Raiser’s

or

Introducer’s

Name

Colour

Edwin Molyneux .

1886

Cannell .

Chestnut crimson, golden reverse

Avalanche .

1887

Cannell .

Snow white

Etoile de Lyon .

1888

Boucharlat .

Rosy purple

Viviand Morel .

1891

Lacroix .

Rose, striped white

Sunflower .

1888

Cannell .

Rich golden yellow

Grloire du Rocher .

1891

Gibson .

Orange amber, flushed crimson

W. H. Lincoln .

1890

Fewkes .

Deep yellow

Stanstead White .

1887

Laing .

Pure white

Monsieur Bernard .

1886

Laing .

Rosy purple

Val d’Andorre .

1883

Pertuzes .

Orange red

Jeanne D^laux .

1882

D^laux .

Dark crimson maroon

Mrs. Falconer Jameson .

1888

Cannell .

Orange bronze

Madame Baco .

1886

Davis .

Deep rose

Madame John Laing .

1885

Delaux .

Creamy white, tinged rose

Sarah Owen .

1887

Owen .

Golden bronze, shaded rose

Florence Davis .

1891

Davis .

Pure white, greenish white centre

Louis Boehmer .

1891

Henderson .

Deep purplish rose, lighter reverse

Mr. A. H. Neve .

1890

Owen .

Silvery blush, purplish centre

Mr. Ralph Brocklebank .

1886

Winkworth .

Yellow

Condor .

1888

Boucharlat .

White

Puritan .

1887

Waterer .

White, flushed lilac

Madame C. Audiguier .

1879

Marrouch .

Deep mauve

Rich yellow, tipped bronze

Boule d’Or .

1882

Bernard .

W. W. Coles .

1888

Craig .

Bright terra-cotta

Meg Merrilies .

1871

J. Salter .

Sulphur white

Gloriosum .

1885

Waterer .

Orange to golden yellow

Carew Underwood .

1886

Beckett .

Bronze

Mdlle. Lacroix .

1880

Lacroix .

White

Japonais .

1880

D61aux .

Bronze yellow

Baronne de Frailly .

1868

J. Salter .

Pale rose

William Trickcr .

1891

Rich light pink

White, edged rosy purple

Belle Panic .

1881

Marrouch .

Stanstead Surprise .

1888

Laing .

Reddish purple

Mrs. 0. H. Wheeler .

1885

Waterer .

Chestnut crimson, golden reverse

Miss A. Hartshorn .

1889

Waterer .

White, slightly tinted pink

Mr. H. Cannell .

1886

Cannell .

Deep lemon yellow

Mdlle. Marie Hoste .

1891

Lacroix .

White, slightly tinted pink

Fair Maid of Guernsey .

1872

Downton .

Pure white

Criterion .

1873

.1. Salter .

Orange amber

Creamy white, tinted blush.

Crimson, edged yellow

Maiden’s Blush .

1885

Stevens .

Marguerite Marrouch .

1878

Marrouch .

Thunberg .

1881

Veiteh .

Soft golden yellow

White

Lady T. Lawrence .

1886

Cannell .

Mr. E. Beckett .

1892

Davis .

Rich deep yellow

Yellow Dragon .

1863

Salter .

Bright golden yellow

La Triomphante .

1885

Reydellet .

White, suffused purplish rose-
Clear yellow

Coronet .

1889

Thorpe .

Mrs. J. Wright .

1886

Laing .

Pure white

Alberic Lunden .

1890

Ddaux .

Purple crimson

Duchess of Albany .

1883

Jackson .

Orange buff

Monsieur J. M. Pigny .

1886

.Audiguier .

White

Mrs. Alpheus Hardy .

1890

Creamy white

Mrs. E. W. Clarke .

1888

Craig .

Amaranth

Mrs. H. Cannell .

1886

Cannell .

Pure white

Monsieur E. A. Carriere .

1889

DAlaux .

Creamy white, tinted blush

Elaine .

1882

Downton .

Pure white

Beauty of Castlewood .

1892

Spaulding .

Crimson and old gold

Pink Tiacroix .

1889

Delicate rose pink

Rosy lilac

Comtesse de Beauregard .

1867

J. Salter .

Comte de Germiny .

1881

Veiteh .

Nankeen, striped crimson brown

Lilian B. Bird .

1890

Fewkes .

White, tinted pink

Pale pink

George Daniels .

1888

Boucharlat .

Album Fimbriatum .

1886

Laing .

Pure white

Cesare Costa .

1890

Hoste .

Poppy red

Monsieur Freeman .

1885

DAlaux .

Purplish rose, white centre

Monsieur J. Laing .

1884

DAlaux .

Reddish brown, golden reverser

Mrs. Irving Clark .

1889

Craig .

Delicate peach

Solid T.ftvant .

1874

Delicate yellow

Purple, white centre

Marsa .

1886

Reydellet .

Volunteer .

1888

Henderson .

Bright flesh pink, tinted rose

L’Adorable .

1885

DAlaux .

Canary yellow, tipped purple

Triomphe de la Rue des Chalets .

1881

Pertuzes .

Reddish salmon

Evnsford White .

1889

Cannell .

Ivory white

Mdlle. Blanche Pigny .

1885

Audiguier .

White

Monsieur Brunet .

1879

Lacroix .

Lilac mauve

Vice-President Audiguier .

1890

Lacroix .

Rose and white

Monsieur H. Elliott .

1886

DAIaux .

Salmon buff, tinted rose

Florence Percy .

1886

Allen .

Creamy white

486

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Norember 30, 1893.

the same way, there are, on the contrary, only five varieties which
are not to be found in both analyses.

The relative positions of the different varieties in the following
lists are dependent upon their average performances at the last five
or less exhibitions as the case may be.

RefLexed. — Cullingfordi, King of Crimsons, White Christine,
Cloth of Gold, Pmk Christine, Golden Christine, Peach Christine,
Chevalier Domage, Dr. Sharpe, Mrs. M. Sullivan, and Phidias.

Large Anemones. — Mrs. Judge Benedict, W. and G. Drover,
Lady Margaret, Gluck, Empress, Miss Annie Lowe, J. Thorpe, jun.,
Gladys Spaulding, Grand Alveole, Georges Sand, Acquisition,
Fleur de Marie, and Nouvelle Alveole.

Japanese Anemones. — Mons. C. Lebocqz, Jeanne Marty,
Kodolpho Ragioniere, Fabian de Mediana, Nelson, Le Deuil>
Madame Robert Owen, M. Dupanloup, Soeur Dorothee Souille,
Duchess of Westminster, Marguerite Solleville, and Sabine.

Pompons. — Black Douglas, Mdlle. Elise Dordan, Golden Mdlle.
Marthe, Mdlle. Marthe, Prince of Orange, Marabout, President,
Pygmalion, William Westlake, Rubrum Perfectum, St. Michael,
and Cendrillon.

Pompon Anemones. — Antonius, Perle, Astria, Rose Marguerite,
Madame Montels, Marie Stuart, Mr. Astie, Regulus, and Calliope.

National Chrysanthemum Society’s Show, Held
November 7th, 1893.

This was one of the largest exhibitions the Society has yet held ;
in fact, the number of Japanese Chrysanthemums staged in
competition exceeded that at any previous show, with the exception
of the Centenary Exhibition in 1890.

As it may be some weeks before my next Chrysanthemum
analysis is ready for publication, it may be of interest if I give
here the relative positions the following new varieties are likely
to occupy in that analysis when it appears. Those new sorts only
are mentioned which are not to be found in the foregoing tables.

Incurved. — Baron Hirsch, Madame Frederic Mistral, Brookleigh
Gem.

Japanese. — Colonel W. B. Smith ("the champion new variety of
the Show), G. C. Schwabe, Charles Davis, Mrs. C. Harman Payne,
Excelsior, Lord Brooke, William Seward, John Shrimpton, Violet
Rose, R. C. Kingston, Amos Perry, Mr. Charles Blick,
J. Stanborough Dibbens, Miss Dorothy Shea.

It only now remains to thank Mr. C. Harman Payne, Secretary of
the Catalogue Committee of the National Chrysanthemum Society,
for again kindly supplying the dates and raisers’ names of some
of the newer varieties in the tables. — E. M., Berhhamsted.

WANDERINGS IN WICKLOW.

The county of Wicklow, if equalled in its splendid scenery by
more remote parts of the west of Ireland, can scarcely be surpassed,
and joining as it does to county Dublin, is of easy access from “ the
car-drivingest city ” in the world. This might be considered a
doubtful advantage resulting in an invasion of Nature’s privacy,
but such is not the case, for though many persons go to Bray, which
may be aptly called the gate to Wicklow, few continue the journey
beyond.

Bray, the so-called Brighton of Ireland, is singularly unlike the
fashionable English resort. The ocean dashes against the fine
esplanade unaccompanied in its solo by either hand organs or
Ethiopian minstrels. True, the soft mournful notes of the Irish
pipes, tuned by a blind musician, fall on the ear, but harmoniously
so, though the missing link may perhaps be found in specimens of
the Edie Ochiltree type, who pour out voluble blessings for
prospective baksheesh ; or mayhap the jaunting car driver has
beguiled yer honour ” into patronising him, and you, though on
pleasure bent, retain the frugal mind by omioting the pour boire,
his look without words is as expressive as the verbiage of his
brother over the water.

On leaving the station visitors cannot fail to be impressed by
the bold front of Bray head, sharply outlined against the sky and
backed up by the mountains, of which the Sugarloaf stands out
pre-eminent. Striking off inland through the picturesque Alpine-
hke village of Enniskerry, where Fuchsia gracilis hangs gracefully
round some cottage windows and Lobelia f ulgens grows luxuriantly

below, a few miles drive brings one to Powerscourt, a place of note
in the gardening world, unrivalled in its setting amidst the
mountains. An extensive range of glass on a plateau near the
mansion is described and illustrated in “ Thompson’s Gardener’s
Assistant,” and some fine groups of statuary embellish the terraced
gardens, but a Scotch mist marred an all too brief visit, prohibiting
any attempt to see the waterfall, one of the features of Lord
Powerscourt’s noted demesne. Time has wrought changes since I
saw Powerscourt on an autumn day, and a detailed account of a
visit then might be misleading now ; yet the glorious panorama of
lights and shadows on the eternal hills disclosed by the rifting
clouds is changeless though ever changing. Mr. Crombie, who now
wields the bSton over the gardens, is a Chrysanthemum man and a
past exhibitor, when his huge blooms have given other competitors
some anxiety. Other seats in the neighbourhood are those of Lord
Monck and the Earl of Meath.

Starting again from Bray the rail winds round the head on a
narrow rocky shelf, so narrow that one looks down a sheer descent
of many feet into the clear blue water, curling its white crests
round detached fragments of the rock, on by the village of Grey-
stones, still skirting the sea till entering the Yale of Ovoca, of
which Moore, the sad sweet poet of Ireland says —

“ There is not in the wide world a valley so sweet
As the vale on whose bosom the wild waters meet.”

From Rathnew Station via the village of Ashford, Ballycurry,
the seat of Col. Tottenham is reached, this demesne of 1500
acres it is needless to say embraces much that is naturally beautiful,
the chief point of interest being the Devil’s Glen, a mountain gorge
of several miles embosoming the tumbling and leaping river
Yartry, happy in escaping the reservoir at Roundwood, the head of
the glen, where the “ City Fathers ” have impounded it for the use
of Dublin and the townships. Passes obtainable at the hotel at
Ashford at a nominal charge, admit visitors to this enchanting piece
of nature.

Near the mansion are the quaint old-fashioned gardens, on
entering which one steps back a century at least, a labyrinth
of narrow walks, low walls, crowded with numerous sweet
smelling flowers, creepers and climbers, and memories of the
past. Well cared for are some ancient Figs spreading their
branches horizontally afar, and Peaches are a picture without
framing or glazing, bearing freely and ripening too in the open,
but the especial pride of the Colonel is a huge Benthamia fragi-
f era near the mansion, so large that in describing it to my old friend
“ F. B.” he said it was something else, but it is not, and unfor¬
tunately I had not taken the height and breadth thereof.

I must not omit to mention a charming spot I had passed in the
morning near Ashford, situated in what appeared the fork of a
river — Tritomas, Pampas plumes, Yirginian Creeper, and all the
glories of autumn seemed concentrated here. I learned afterwards
it is the residence of Mr. Walpole, a gentleman noted for his love
of hardy plants, and in no sweeter nook could he have gathered
together his choice collection. The name of this place I do not
know, but Eden or Paradise suggest themselves to a gardener’s
mind.

The climate of Wicklow is a favoured one, though the pleasant
walk of six miles in the quiet September morning contrasted
painfully with the lonely tramp back in the dark of night under
weeping skies, and to wanderers in Wicklow a waterproof is
indispensable. On another autumn day, which we gardeners seem
to favour for a brief holiday, and enjoy the more when the hurry
and rush of the season is over, the writer and another (the
unbeliever in the huge Benthamia) set off at an early hour from
the plains of Kildare on a special invite to see the gardens of
Glenart Castle, the Irish seat of Lord Carysfort, situated on the
right bank of the Ovoca, far down “ that valley so sweet,” and
near the fishing town of Arklow. Detraining at Woodenbridge,
we come to terms with a native car driver, who dashes us along
some two miles of a good road to the entrance gates, where pride
gets a fall from the guardian angel of the lodge, vigorously declaim¬
ing through the bars that one shall come in, the other shall not ;
to admit one, “ them’s her orders,” but after some cajolings on our
part, and protest on hers, we enter one of the best kept demesnes
I have yet seen — a perfect road, with channelled sides, hard as a
steam roller then in constant use on the estate could make it,
winding round and up a hill to the garden entrance under a lofty
clock tower. Terrace after terrace falls away to the south, and
just beyond the handsome castle, surrounded by its velvet lawns,
all in perfect keeping. The glass department is commodious, two
houses of Pines were in grand form, as were also late Grapes —
Gros Colman, huge in its berries, and of fine colour. A cork-
covered door clothed with Ficus repens at the back of a central
conservatory opening into the office was a novelty, the secret being
a box on the inner side of the door through which the Ficus stem

November 30, 1393. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

487

was brought. Retracing our steps we climb the tower, where the
keen sharp air brings forcibly to our mind that we had an early
breakfast, and our worthy guide, Mr. Wilmett, trots us off to
his creeper-clad cottage, where two hungry gardeners lighten the
larder, and afterwards feast our eyes outside on the glowing mass
of Ampelopsis Veitchi clothing the gardener’s house and the out¬
side of the garden walls.

On the left bank of the river, immediately opposite, is Shelton
Abbey, the home of the Earl of "Wicklow, laying low in the valley,
distinct in its character from Glenart, but equally beautiful. The
nearest bridge is miles away, and boating is not possible at any¬
time. To-day water is scarce, at other times too plentiful, coming
down with a rush from the mountains ; but friend Wilmett,
though not an energetic man, is equal to this emergency, and
orders his heavy cart, in which, cushioned on straw, we navigate
through broad shoals of gravel, and catch Mr. Tyler at home,
from which I think Irish gardeners are seldom absent. Huge Bay
Laurels and many shrubs, but semi-hardy in less favoured localities,
flourish here. All looks well in the houses. Again more Pines,
but little inferior to those of Glenart ; but a limited staff of hands
cannot result in the high keeping which obtains across the river.
Another noted place a few miles from here is Coollattin Park, the
seat of Earl Fitzwilliam, as yet to me a terra incognita.

Nearer to Dublin is the ruins of the seven churches in the
valley of Glendalough, and nearer still to the busy hum of the
great city is the Scalp, a gigantic freak of Nature in rockwork
building, huge boulders of many tons weight piled high up on
each side of the high road. The Scalp being but some nine miles
by road from Dublin is a popular resort of those on pleasure bent,
and sundry remains in the shape of bottles bearing the name of
Guiness or Jamieson give silent evidence of modern Celts
patronising Irish manufacture ; but among the mountains of
Wicklow, the lover of Nature can, undisturbed, hold communion
with her visible forms, and easier understand how strong is that
feeling of amor patriae in the breast of the poor emigrant, so
many of whom go to seek their fortunes in the great land of the
West, and so few of whom return to see again the loved hills and
valleys of dear Ireland.

Sparsely populated, each census telling the tale of decreasing
numbers, the few one meets with are quiet and thoughtful looking,
greeting the stranger in soft and pleasing accents, so different to
the awful brogue some English papers are pleased to give us
specimens of. Warm-hearted, generous to a fault. Some years
since the rector of the parish I was then situated in was lending
a sympathetic ear to my tale of difficulties — I, a newly imported
gardener, experienced with a large staff of workmen ; but years
have rolled by, and hours of trial have come that few escape, and I
have experienced that generous warm-hearted sympathy ungrudg¬
ingly given to me, an alien in race and creed, that I can now
endorse the remark he then concluded with — “ with all their faults
I love them still.” I venture to touch but lightly on a subject
which may at first eight appear out of place in the Journal. Yet,
on consideration, it cannot be an unimportant one to the English
gardener settled in Ireland ; and to those who are not, it may serve
to remove one at least of many erroneous impressions that time
and experience have eliminated from the mind of — E. K.

Orchids for Flowering at Christmas.

{Continued from page 464.)

A SELECTION of Orchids for flowering at Christmas would be
incomplete without that easily managed and useful species Cypri-
pedium insigne, which, with its varieties, can be depended upon,
with greater certainty and less trouble than any other, to produce
its flowers in December, and retain them in good condition into
January, or later if desired. As a matter of experiment we have
grown this Cypripedium in many different soils and under varying
conditions, and though it has not been always equally satisfactory,
it has never absolutely failed. If potted soon after flowering in a
compost of equal parts fibrous loam and peat, with the addition of
a small proportion of old decomposed cow or horse manure, it has
a long season of growth, a vinery being a capital place for it,
supplying water and syringing freely in warm weather. At the
present time a conservatory, warm greenhouse, or the cool end of
an Orchid house is suitable — in fact, any position where it can be

protected from draughts of cold air, and where the temperature
does not fall below 45°, diminishing the application of water as the
flowers show, but giving enough to prevent their suffering or being
checked. When in flower plants can be placed in a room, or the
flowers if cut and arranged in vessels of water will last for weeks.
The varieties are now numerous, ranging from a pale yellow or
nearly white tint to a rich polish bronzy brown, with purple or
violet spots, or tinting in dorsal sepal, which also varies in size and
in the breadth of the white margin. One of the best still is, however,
C. insigne Maulei. _

For richness of colouring and gracefulness of habit Lselia
anceps and its charming varieties are unsurpassed for winter, and
their flowers can be as readily ensured at Christmas as the old
Cypripedium just named. They can be grown in a warm con¬
servatory or in the warm end of a cool Orchid house, but from now
until tbe flowers are fully expanded they are better in rather dry
quarters, as the presence of much moisture in the air is apt to
injure the flowers. Only sufficient water is required to keep them
fresh and prevent the plants suffering, and it may be taken as a
general rule for Orchids in flower during winter that the smallest
quantity of water with which they can be supplied consistent with
the health of the plants is the most likely to ensure the long lasting
of the flowers. The ordinary varieties of L. anceps, with rosy
purple sepals apd petals and rich crimson lip, are all beautiful and
useful for general cultivation, but there are scores of other forms
differing greatly in richness or delicacy of colouring, some, as
Barkeriana and Dawsoni, possessing strongly marked characters.

A most useful winter Orchid is Zygopetalum Mackayi, which
produces its purple-veined flowers naturally in the dull season, and
the plants being managed without any great difficulty it is de¬
servedly a favourite. It makes its growth best in an intermediate
house, a warm conservatory, or the coolest part of a stove. When
in flower it is preferably, however, transferred to drier quarters
like most of the others mentioned. The well-known Dendrobium
nobile can be added to the list, for if the plants have been duly
prepared it is easy to have some in flower at the middle or end
of December. D. Wardianum can also be occasionally had in
flower at the same time, but both must have been thoroughly
matured in a sunny warm position, and be bought on very gradu¬
ally. D. nobile is especially valuable, as its flowers are useful for
cutting to be employed in buttonholes or bouquets. Vanda
coerulea will help materially if it can be secured, and its pale blue
flowers can easily be had if the plants are arranged in a cool house
and carefully watered during the present and the next month.
The small flowered but fragrant Vanda Amesiana is another
charming Orchid for this season, its white rose and purple-tinted
flowers being much appreciated. Like the last, it is best in a
cooler position while flowering. The diverse-flowered Dendrobium
Phalsenopsis var. Schroederianum is in excellent condition during
November and part of December, some plants frequently continuing
attractive over Christmas. An intermediate temperature suits
very well, but it can be arranged with any of those named in a
warm conservatory. The true autumn-flowering Cattleya labiata
may be grown under similar conditions, and its flowers prolonged
into January. This, and its varieties under whatever names they
are grown are most valuable for the Christmas list. — Orchidist.

(To be continued.)

THE PREMATURE DECAY OF APPLES.

I WAS much interested in reading Mr. Iggulden’s letter on page 437,
November 16th, and, like him, should be glad to have a satisfactory
explanation of the premature decay of our early Apples this season.
Every agriculturist knows full well that when Turnips have been
checked in their growth by hot dry weather, and their skin has become
“hide bound,” they will after a soaking rain, start to grow again, and
the skin being tough will frequently crack at the shoulder, the Turnip
putting out fresh tops at the neck, and subsequently keeping very badly.
This would seem to support Mr. Iggulden’s theory that the late rains,
which came before the fruit was ripened, coming after the long dry spell,
had by causing the fruit to swell rapidly occasioned the mischief com¬
plained of but this theory is difficult to maintain in the face of the
fact that the same varieties when grown in pots under glass, and had never
suffered from lack of food or moisture, spotted and cracked quite as
badly as their fellows in the open air. Many of the best fruits after being
carefully gathered and stored swelled and cracked like a baked Apple,
Ecklinville, Alexander, Lord Suffield, Lord Grosvenor, and New Haw--
thornden, were amongst the worst offenders, whilst Cox s Pomona, a
variety which I think much under-rated, Domino and Bismarck have
stood the trial better.

Of the American varieties I cannot say much,^ as they are unsuited
for our climate in the Midlands. Newtown Pippin we discarded year

8

488

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Noyember 30, 1893.

ago, as the fruit was little larger than Crabs, and most of the Americans
seem too tender for us ; King of Tomkins County is an exception
perhaps, but has proved so far a shy bearer.

Of the later kinds we have not much to complain, and although they
ripened early they seem to be keeping well ; with such varieties as
Newton Wonder, New Northern Greening, Alfriston, Beauty of Kent,
and Bramley’s Seedling as sheet anchors, there should be no dearth of
late cooking Apples ; whilst King of the Pippins, Cox’s Orange and
Scarlet Nonpareil are keeping very well so far. Cornish Aromatic has
done well this season, and Sturmer Pippin seems to be in great force ;
everyone has a crop. Apropos of prices I was grieved to hear of Cox’s
Orange being sold in Somersetshire at Gd. a peck ; when I was at the
Market Growers’ Show in Maidstone last month I saw a two peck basket
of this variety sold for 208., these must surely be extremes.

The conclusion that we came to here was that the cause of our fruit
keeping badly was the heat of the fruit room, which, although built
with hollow walls, is exposed to the full sun, and it seemed beyond our
power to keep it cool. I saw on my visit to Kent a fruit room thatched
with reeds on the roof and sides, which contained a collection of fruit
calculated to arouse the envy of any grower ; doubtless the owner will
tell us how it has kept. — A. H. Peaeson, Clnlwell^ Notts.

Mr. Iggtjlden (page 437) has done well to draw attention to a not
improbable scarcity of Apples in several places later in the season. The
past summer produced splendid crops with me, and so far as I can
foresee the supply here will last till June. The Apple crop of 1892,
especially late kinds, was fairly good ; those in use from January
onwards were the following : Kirke’a Incomparable, an old free bearing
sort ; Northern Greening, Leyden Pippin, M6re de Manage, Bedfordshire
Foundling, Norfolk Beefing, Striped Beefing, and Baldwin. Norfolk
Beefing was the last for use in May, when the Gooseberries came in. Of
dessert kinds. King of Pippins, Adams’ Pearmain, and Old Nonpareil
kept well till late in the spring. The Baldwin Apple in March, April,
and May is good for either culinary or dessert, the reddest and best
looking being picked out for the latter purpose.

As regards the supply for next spring, which with myself I am glad
to say is more plentiful than last year, the following kinds may be
named, none of them may perhaps be termed large showy Apples like
some of the autumn varieties, still they are worth cultivating. Three of
the largest are M5re de Manage, Alfriston, and Striped Beefing. The
last named is an excellent cropper, a pruned bush of it 7 feet high and
as much through produced three bushels of large Apples, many of which
are more than a foot round. One of the most abundant croppers, and
moreover of best cooking quality, is the old Northern Greening. There
are a number of orchard trees in this neighbourhood, possibly planted by
our great-grandfathers, that were crowded with fruit. From an old
standard in this garden seven bushels were picked, and then a large
number were left on through not being easy to reach. Although so old
a sort, where one is wanted for culinary purposes in the new year this
may well be planted. If the new Northern Greening is as good a
cropper it will be an acquisition to our modern kinds. Neither should
Norfolk Beefing and the Striped Beefing be omitted, the last named I
find is the largest and most constant cropper, taking one season with
another. As regards the black and brown spots so much observed this
year, I have noticed it with several kinds, and particularly the Eibston
Pippin . My impression is that it was caused by a severe hailstorm that
occurred here about the end of June. The weather was very hot at the
time ; but it was a singular sight to see all the fields with an half inch
covering of hail. It was a curious spectacle, a midwinter scene in mid¬
summer; but in half an hour it had all disappeared, and the afternoon
being hot and sultry.

I see by Mr. Iggulden’s article that he would like some information
as regards American varieties of Apples doing well in this country.
Out of nearly fifty kinds grown here, there is only one that I know of
that is American, and that is the Baldwin. Of its fruiting and good
keeping qualities I cannot speak too highly. As I said before, it is good
either for kitchen or table purposes from March to May or June ; whether
it will keep this season so long is a matter I can only speak of later on,
when the time comes. Seventeen years ago two dwarf bushes were
planted here, and being a vigorous kind grew freely. The soil I may
state is a stiffish loam a’oout 3 feet deep resting on gravel. After three
or four years they commenced bearing, and have done so ever since,
some years more than others. The best of the two bushes is now 8 feet
high, and as much through ; in fact, they have been kept pruned to that
height the last ten years. Pruning, if possible, is usually performed in
August ; it admits the light in to help colour the fruit, and is beneficial
for the next season’s buds. But it is not only as a pruned bush that it
can be recommended, for it is as an unpruned tree that it has done so
well. Eleven years ago I was induced to insert grafts of it in an old
apparently worn out tree of Wellington, through an odd circumstance.
It 80 happened that a bed of Parsley was growing beneath the pruned
bushes of Baldwin, and in March of that year (1882) three Apples were
found beneath the Parsley leaves in a perfectly sound condition, having
passed through the winter’s rain, frost, and snow uninjured. They
evidently fell and lay unnoticed or hidden since the previous October.
I cut one of them, and although it was not quite ripe the flavour was
very good, and the thought occurred to me that it was an Apple worth
looking after. Eight grafts were placed on the sawn-off Wellington ;
four of them grew well, and now form the head of a tree nearly 30 feet
high. The largest of the grafts at the present time measures 23 inches
round. The circumference of the main stem or stock at 6 inches from

the ground is 5 feet 6 inches. The first year after grafting, the young
shoots, some of them a yard in length, were shortened about one-half.
Since then no pruning has been done. The crop from it this year has
been three-and-a-half barrels of 10 stones each barrel. Last year about a
bushel was produced, and in 1891 two barrels, or about six bushels. So
much for its vigour and fruitfulness. The shelves in the fruit-room
being all occupied with other kinds, and as our American friends put
them in barrels for several weeks, or may be months, I thought I would
do the same, and stand them on the brick floor of the fruit-room. In
1891 they were taken out of the barrels three months after picking in a
perfectly sound condition, not half a peck being bad. The other day,
two months since they were picked, having now more room on the
shelves, about 20 stones were taken off the top of the barrels, and out of
that quantity only twelve bad Apples were found.

From the two pruned bushes and the grafted tree between 50 and
60 stones of fruit of good size have been picked this year. In Septem¬
ber last year I examined the branches when in full leaf, and could see
that it was likely to have a large crop of blossom, so two barrowfuls of
dry wood ashes and four of good manure were placed over the roots of
the grafted tree, a covering of about 4 inches deep, and left for the
autumn and winter rains to wash in. No doubt this dressing left its
mark on the excellent weight of the crop. Another point in favour of
this Apple is this : It has been my lot on many occasions a few years
back to buy and unpack barrels of American and Canadian Apples —
Newtown Pippin, Baldwin, and Northern Spy, and as a general rule I
found that the Baldwin always came out less damaged than either of
the others. Although both of them are excellent sorts, yet the skin
appears thin and liable to injury. Many times I have emptied a Bald¬
win barrel, and only a dozen Apples or so have been damaged, whereas
of the other two kinds a bushel has often been unfit for use. Fruit
from the north side and shaded parts of the trees are green, but those
fully exposed to sunshine are a bright red. I have rather enlarged upon
this much-imported Apple ; but as it has done so well it is a pleasure
to recommend it to others. It certainly is not so ripe here in January
as those sent from America at that time. It would be of interest to
know how it has fared with others who have cultivated it for any
length of time. — A. Harding, Orton Hall, Peterborough,

In common with others I have found Apples to keep very badly this
season. Eibston Pippin and Blenheim Orange have been the worst
offenders with me. It is really sad to see such fine specimens going so
fast. The late Apples, Lane’s Prince Albert, Alfriston, and Wellington,
are not so bad at present ; but every inspection shows a few more decayed
fruit. Beauty of Kent and the Pearmains have done very well with me
at present, and so have both the Hawthordens.

What “ A. D.” (page 465) says on the preservative power of dead
leaves is, I believe, as true as it is interesting. They are Nature’s own
covering ; not only her bed clothes for the winter sleep of her tender
plants, but also her means for the conservation of her produce and fruits
for her creatures who are meant to eat them . I have found them the
best of the many materials I have tried for the protection of the dwarf
Tea Eoses against severe frost. — W. E. Eaillem .

1 HAVE heard numerous complaints of Apples keeping badly, but the
state of matters indicated by Mr. Iggulden at page 437 is more serious
than I had imagined. Personally, I cannot say much about the earlier
Apples, as I sold all when they were ready. Late kinds are keeping
quite as well as usual. A few fruits keep decaying, but these without
exception have been pecked or otherwise damaged. While that is the
case here, I hear of others who have lost most of their best fruit. But
I know that this had been gathered much too soon.

The autumn was perfect, and many gardeners seem to have been
tempted by the appearance of the fruit to pick it much earlier than
usual, some crops having been gathered and stored before the end of
September. Then, the practice of keeping Apple rooms shut close is, I
am certain, prejudicial to the keeping qualities of the fruit. Judging
by the manner fruit left out of doors keeps, it is apparent that free
ventilation is not inimical to the fruit. I keep our Apple store freely
ventilated, except in frosty and damp weather, and believe it to be
beneficial.

With regard to the fruit of Duchess of Oldenburg decaying it is
quite a common occurrence for it to do so. It is the only fault I have
against this beautiful variety. The decay begins at the core and spreads
outwards. — B.

From the reports of your various correspondents it is evident that
the price of Apples must eventually go up when there comes a scarcity
of home-grown produce. I find that Emperor Alexander, Warner’s
King, Peasgood’s Nonesuch, and Wellington are showing signs of dete¬
rioration, whereas Bramley’s Seedling, Manks Codlin, and Lane’s Prince
Albert are in the best of condition. I have them stored in an airy
room, which is not over-dry, and which I can ventilate by a window
18 inches square.

As to the cause of this rapid decay I agree with Mr. Cheal (page 466)
that it is the sudden and superabundant flow of sap through the trees
after the fruits have begun to ripen that has ruptured the cellular
tissues which connect the fruit to the tree, and which we are told by
scientists become gradually sealed up as the Apples develop, so that
when the fruit is beginning to ripen there is really no connection for
the flow of sap. This would greatly interfere with the ripening process,

Koyember 30, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

489

which has evidently been the case this year. Perhaps it would be of
service to your readers if our large growers of fruit would state the kind
of soil upon which their trees are grown, and also whether the fruits
produced upon dry soil are keeping better than those grown upon that
of a heavy wet nature. — S. H.

A Good Cbop.

Can you oblige me by giving the name of the Apple, of which I send
you sample herewith ? A tree from which they were gathered is grow¬
ing in the garden of a neighbour of mine. It is an old standard of
considerable spread of growth, and always bears well ; but this year it
has excelled itself in the production of over 19 cwt of fair sound fruit.
Many of them are much larger than those sent, and they keep well until
April and May, and cook splendidly. I trust this note may be of in¬
terest to you, and shall be glad to know if instances of single trees
yielding a ton of fruit in a season are at all frequent. — Jno. Bateman,
Highgate, N.

[The Apple closely resembles Eymer, a useful culinary variety.
Nearly a ton of sound fruit, sucb as the samples sent, from one tree is
a remarkable crop of a good orchard Apple.]

Apples Losing Flavour.

Although much has been written on the best means of preserving
Apples 1 have not recently observed anything upon the absorbing
powers of materials employed in the packing of Apples. Lately I was
cutting up a number of barrels in which Apples had been imported, the
wood being of red and white pine. Some of these barrels had been
exposed a long time to the influence of the weather. Yet the fragrance
of the Apples was very pronounced, being greatest in the red pine, and
the Apples in the barrels must have lost much of their flavour after they
were gathered .

My reply to “A. D.’s” query (page 465), “Has anyone ever tried the
stacking of Apples in leaves outdoors 1 ” is that I have frequently come
across Apples buried amongst leaves by boys or animals, quite fresh in
spring, as were isolated ones beneath the natural fallen leaves, when
Apples from the same trees, stored inside were not in the same sound
condition. The hedgehog has sometimes collected heaps of Apples, and
this autumn I found a large number of Pears in a heap beneath some
Ferns, the animal perhaps instinctively knowing the decaying fronds
would afford ample protection. — T.

PRIMULA FORBESI.

At the meeting of the Eoyal Horticultural Society on Tuesday,
November 14th, much interest was centred on a basket of plants of
Primula Forbesi, staged by Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford Lodge,
Dorking. The plants were covered with small lilac flowers, having
yellow centres, the whole forming a pretty mass of bloom. P. Forbesi is
a native of Yunnan, China, and was introduced in 1891, but apparently
it is not yet included in other than choice collections. It may be termed
a half-hardy species, thriving best in a greenhouse or frame, under the
same conditions as P. obconica, and it usually flowers in November,
The illustration (fig. 70), which indicates the character of this charming
Primula, has been prepared from a sketch of the plants exhibited on the
above occasion, and for which a first-class certificate was awarded. It
is stated to be a biennial plant, and can be readily raised from seed.

NOTES BY THE WAY.

A Great Vegetable Grower and His Work.

In a series of retrospective reflections it is impossible to avoid depress¬
ing contrasts. Winter thoughts or summer wanderings bring back
many a pleasant scene. A beautiful spot is recalled in some country
garden, and at once eyes are filled with summer sunshine and ears with
the song of birds, for with the one recollection comes back a host of
others closely associated with it. But a nor’ caster whistles around the
windows, showers of sleet are driven against the panes, and bare soil
instead of flowers rewards the outward glance. It is natural that the
aesthetic soul should indulge in a sympathetic shiver and retire within
itself, indulging in a kind of dormouse existence until the spring comes
again. The contrast is too great to be realised without a sense of
emptiness and depression, and so it is shrunk from and avoided.

Gardeners as a body are by no means devoid of sensibility, or dead
to every artistic influence, but for all that they do not usually share to
any great extent in the feeling to which reference has just been made.
The explanation, of course is, that although floral aspects play a part in
a gardener’s work, and have no small share in his happiness, they do not
fill his life. There are trees, for example, and these, as a writer has
has said, are “ silent friends, remaining with us always.” A collection
of fine Conifers, such as those referred to in my notes on page 464, is a
source of perennial pleasure. They have not the charms when bending
under ripping winds, and dripping with cold rain, that they possess in
the spring time, but they are there, solid and visible, affording
subject for admiration, conversation and discussion. Truly trees are
friends, and if they are silent ones then all the more reason why we
should blow their trumpet for them.

And, again, if the flower beds and borders are empty the kitchen
garden is not. The most advanced mathetic must eat, and surely there
is much food for interest in comments and observations on vegetables.
It is sheer affectation and pedantry to look down upon a Cabbage or a
Parsnip just because it ministers to our physical wants instead of to our
artistic ones. Let us be sensible and study both, then when the flowers have
gone we can find consolation in the more practical aspects of gardening.

Piobably there are not many cultivators] who will deny that there is as
much interest, if not as much beauty, in a well stocked and well
managed kitchen garden as there is in a series of flower beds. There is a
variety of method and varying degrees of skill in the one just as there is
in the other. In one garden a particular crop or variety does better than
in another, and in one instance there is a good system of cropping and
great productiveness, while in a second the plan of action is imperfect
and the crops moderate or poor.

Great vegetable growers are as much entitled to respect from the
fraternity generally as, let us say, great Chrysanthemum growers, and
their methods are as well worthy of study. They do not always get it
so far as tie general public are concerned, for what casual visitor at a

490

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Koyember 30, 1891.

show will pause to discuss and admire a Dell’s Beet when there is a
Viviand Morel not far away ? But in the inner circles the leading
kitchen gardens of the country do not pass unthought of, and for that
reason I think it probable that a few remarks on one of the best-known
cultivators and his work may have at least a vestige of interest. What
gardener reading the reports of the principal vegetable competitions
does not know the name of Mr. C. J. Waite ? He is not a triton amongst
the minnows, swooping down on small shows and bringing confusion to
minor cultivators, but one who loves to meet foemen worthy of his steel.
This is the sort of fighter that Britons respect most. The warrior who
shirks from contests with others of his own calibre in order to have
easy victories against opponents a long way below him is a poor sort of
creature. Better be beaten by a good man than earn a creditless victory
against one of a minor grade. _

Glenhurst lies somewhat oflE the main road from London in a quiet,
retired corner of the pleasant Surrey townlet of Esher, but it is within
comfortable walking distance of the station of that name. It is not
what would be called a large place as that term is usually understood
amongst the craft. The kitchen garden, which is in more than one part,
mounts up to about 2f acres in all, which means a fair but not great extent
of ground. And the pleasure part is about in proportion, also the glass.
This does not point to extraordinary provision for securing exceptional
crops, and as a matter of fact a visit shows at once that the exceptionally
good results secured are the result of the best cultural methods combined
with incessant work. A man of wonderful energy is Mr. Waite.
He is a worker to the finger tips, getting through as much as two
ordinary men. Active and alert, brisk in every movement, he is a
thoroughly good type of the English gardener. Should anyone think
that the place is purely a “ show ” one, where everthing is sacrificed
to securing fine samples for exhibition, he should go and let his own
eyes teach him a lesson of the error he has made. The amount of
produce which is grown in the Glenhurst gardens will, I venture to
think, set all such hasty criticism at naught.

My call was paid in the height of the hot summer weather, and I
found the presiding genius of the garden hard at work with the foreman
— another of the go-ahead brigade — pouring sewage on to a Vine border.
The dark, rich-looking liquid was being applied in scores of gallons, and
the Vines seemed to appreciate it, for they were in splendid health and
carrying fine crops. The wood is too strong to be tied till it comes down
with the weight of the bunches. Foster’s Seedling, Muscat of
Alexandria, Black Hamburgh, Mrs. Pearson, Buckland Sweetwater,
Black Alicante and Lady Downe’s were all finely represented, being
particularly noteworthy for size of berry.

That the Glenhurst gardener is an admirable fruit as well as vege¬
table grower, the Peaches and Nectarines also serve to prove. The
collection in pots was particularly striking, quite reminding one of
Mr. Rivers’ wonderful trees. Pine Apple had given 158 fruits, and a
bush of Princess of Wales was almost breaking down with its burden.
Two other sorts, which give excellent crops are Bellegarde and Crimson
Galande. To summarise, seven trees had given 700 fruits, and when
it is borne in mind that bushes in pots have produced this result, it
will be accepted as highly creditable. The trees are repotted every
year, and plunged in leaves out of doors when at rest. Beyond shorten¬
ing a few leading shoots of a straggling character little pruning is
done. The trees bear most of their fruit on short natural spurs, Trained
Peaches planted out under glass were equally fine in their way.

Yet another excellent fruit crop was Melons. Few such crops are
met with in gardens as that which Mr. Waite had to show. The plants
had been planted in a span-roofed pit, which had been used for propa¬
gating in the spring. It has six lights, and eighteen plants were put in
14 inches apart. On these 100 fruits were set and swelling, presenting a
tenapting picture. The plants were in the best of health, and evenly
trained, not a tangled mass of interlacing growths. Mr. Waite is no
believer in keeping a dry atmosphere at ripening time, and does not
practise the system. The special favourite is one he raised himself,
called Perfection, and which Messrs. Sutton are, I believe, sending out.
It is a Melon uniting delicious flavour with other good qualities.

' One lof the secrets of the Esher exhibitor’s wonderful series of suc¬
cesses with vegetables is deep cultivation. When he started operations
he found a thin, half-worked soil, and he set to work to trench, doing a
good deal of the work with his own hands. In the original garden there
is now a depth of about 3 feet of pulverised, aerated, crumbly soil, well
sweetened by the air and enriched with more solid substances. This
deep root medium results in magnificent crops, particularly of roots.
Take Parsnips for instance. At a time when most people’s crops were
half a failure from the drought Mr. Waite could draw and show me a
clean, straight, whip-like root nearly 18 inches long, and which would
have developed iato a grand example in due course. This grower sets
himself up ideals in vegetables as others do in flowers, and one of his
great feats is to produce Parsnips which, root and top growth included,
^e as tall as himself. This is not bad work. Native guano helps him.
He uses six or seven tons of this useful fertiliser every season.

But it 13 not Parsnips alone. Carrots were a picture for such a season,
no looking parched and rniserable, but healthy luxuriant and flourishing.
Unions are another speciality, Early sowing supplemented by deep

rich soil give the 2^ lb. bulbs which add so materially to the strength of
the Glenhurst collections. Some Mammoth Silverskins were 18 inches
in circumference. These were striking individually, and as a crop it
would be dififlcult to imagine anything finer than a large piece of
autumn sown in the new kitchen garden. Celery, too, is splendidly
grown. The early crop is taken off the outside Vine border, and Mr,
Waite argues that the Vines benefit rather than suffer by the system,
inasmuch as they get the advantage of the manurial applications given
to the Celery. The sticks are blanched with brown paper. The later
crops are grown in the new gardens, and such crops are rarely met with.

Lettuces and Leeks are also blanched with paper. An early crop of
the former is taken, and then the ground is planted with Cauliflowers.
To refer to the merits of every crop would be merely a repetition of
adjectives, for there was no exception to the rule of fine produce and full
land. Even Peas, so bad in most gardens, were good. Magnum Bonum
in particular being full of excellent pods. Potatoes come out large,
shapely and clean, because the land is worked until it is as friable as so
much potting soil, crumbling soft as silk beneath the fingers.

Few cultivators work their land as hard as Mr. Waite. He has
much to provide, besides what is wanted for the exhibition table, and he
packs the ground with grand produce. But consider how his soil has
been studied 1 He enlarged the plant larder until its capacity was
increased threefold, and then stored it with good things. Alike in its
mechanical condition and in its fertility has been improved year by
year until it is like a mass of potting compost, rich, porous and
friable. He has made corresponding provision for his vegetables to that
which a Chrysanthemum champion makes for his plants when potting.
The work is a monument to his industry and an example to all who
aspire to be what all must admit him to be — a credit to British
gardening. — W. P. W.

Events of the Week. — But few events of horticultural interest
will take place in the metropolis during the ensuing week. An Exhibi¬
tion will be held, under the auspices of the National Chrysanthemum
Society, at the Royal Aquarium on December 5th, 6th, and 7th. The
annual meeting of the National Rose Society will be held at the Hotel
Windsor, Victoria Street, S.W., on the 7th prox., when the Rev.
W. Wilks will occupy the chair. The members of the Society will
hold their annual dinner during the evening of the day mentioned, and
at the same place. A few auction sales will be held, as usual, at the
various rooms, the particulars of which will be found in the advertise¬
ment pages.

- The Weather in London. — The past week has been

characterised by some changeable weather. On Sunday it rained more
or less for the greater part of the day in the metropolis, but cleared at
night, and a severe frost occurred early on Monday morning. Towards
evening on the latter day it became mild, similar weather continiring on
Tuesday. Wednesday opened dull but fine, and at the time of going to
press it is very mild for the time of year.

- Weather in the North. — There were slight frosts for a

morning or two at the beginning of the past week, but the weather has
generally been open and unsettled, with an occasional wet evening. On
the morning of the 27th 4° frost were recorded, and this morning (28th)
the thermometer registered 52°. — B. D., S. Perthshire.

- Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. — An entertainment,

under the patronage of Lord Egerton of Tatton, Coningsby Disraeli,
Esq., M.P., J. W. Sidebottom, Esq., M.P., and other distinguished
persons, will be held in the Literary Institute, Altrincham, on Wednes¬
day evening, December 6th. Mr. William Plant, the active Secretary
of the Local Committee, hopes that the present effort to strengthen the
Fund will be even more successful than a previous one, when £20 were
realised.

- A Meeting of the Committee of the Royal Gardeners’

Orphan Fund was held on Friday last at the Hotel Windsor, West¬
minster, W. Marshall, Esq., presiding. The receipts for the month
were considered satisfactory, one amount of £21, the proceeds from
a concert organised by W. Furze, Esq., Mr. A. Dean, and others, for
which a special vote of thanks was accorded. Various other amounts
had been received from the sale of flowers at Chrysanthemum Shows,
collecting cards and boxes, and from Ketton Hall Gardens, Stamford,

Koreiabef 30, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

491

and The Grange Gardens, Wallington, where Chrysanthemums had
been on public view. It was decided to elect five more orphans at
the annual meeting. Forms of application can be obtained of Mr.
A. F. Barron, Hon. Sec., Royal Horticultural Gardens, Chiswick, and
must be returned on or before December 27th, 1893.

- Death of Alexander Stephen Wilson. — With regret we

announce the death of Mr. A. S. Wilson of North Kinmundy, Aberdeen¬
shire, which took place in Aberdeen on the 16th inst. Mr. Wilson, who
was in the sixty-seventh year of his age, took a great interest in botany
and agriculture, and was the author of several scientific and philosophical
works.

- Death op Me. Bailey Denton. — We regret to hear of the

death of Mr. J. Bailey Denton, which took place on Sunday, 19th inst.
Mr. Denton was in his eightieth year, and for a long time had made
agriculture his hobby. Of late years Mr. Denton took much interest in
the cultivation of Orchids at his country residence at Stevenage in
Hertfordshire.

- North of Scotland Horticultural and Arboricultural

Association. — The members of this Association held their monthly
meeting at Aberdeen on Wednesday, 15th inst. There was a good
attendance, and Mr. John Munro, Polmuir Nurseries, occupied the chair.
An Exhibition of flowers, fruit, and vegetables was held. Cultural
certificates were awarded to Mr. J. Crighton and Mr. Ross, Cranford,
for Chrysanthemums and Orchids.

- The Agricultural Exhibit of Sir John Lawes and Sir

Henry Gilbert at Chicago appears to have been much appreciated by
the Americans. According to “ Nature,” the Association of American
Agricultural Colleges and Experiment Stations have passed a special
resolution expressing the value they attach to the exhibit, and the
Director-General of the Exposition has forwarded the same to England,
with the added thanks of the Exposition, for “ the great benefit done
to American agriculture by this excellent and instructive exhibit."

- A Wild Flower Carnival. — An Australian paper gives an

account of a “ wild flower carnival ’’ which the residents of York made
an absolute success. From its inception the idea of a wild flower show
in “the garden of the colony” “caught on,” and a keen amount of
friendly rivalry was shown, which resulted in a display which, for
uniqueness of arrangement and variety of design, made the task of
judging the various exhibits a difficult one. On entering the hall, it is
stated, one was first impressed with the artistic taste displayed in the
various decorations, and the care and attention which was shown in the
arrangement of the exhibits, so that everything should be seen to the
best advantage, and for this the ladies, who are always willing workers
on such occasions, deserve the warmest thanks.

- Brussels Sprouts. — It is exceedingly instructive to find that

whilst a good deal of complaint has been made as to the unsatisfactory
products of Brussels Sprouts in many private gardens, they are so good
in fields where grown on harder soil, and are more exposed to the weather.
It would be well if some gardeners who complain so much of the coarse
and inferior sprouts their plants produce from their rich loose soils,
would dibble out plants on to hard soil early in June, such as had
carried during the winter a crop of Spinach, or some other winter
produce, other, of course, than Brassica. To give full effect to the
virtues of firmness the soil should not be dug, only deeply hoed over,
then the Brussels plants put out and left to take their chance. That is
the way to induce the production of very hard woody stems and firm
well-formed sprouts. Especially are such plants valuable for late
winter cropping. — D,

- White Earwigs. — Our old friend “Lanarkshire Bee-keeper”

(page 458) asks what are they ? and as no one has replied, perhaps I can
throw a little light on the subject. I have frequently met with speci¬
mens in various stages of growth, and my impression is that they have
very recently cast the brown skin or moulted, and that in a few days at
most they regain their usual brown colour. I have no doubt that
“L. B. K.” has frequently found the sloughs under quilts on bee hives.
Respecting earwigs being “ more the friends of the gardener than his
enemy,” I expect it will take a vast amount of ocular demonstration to
persuade some of us to entertain the idea after our experience in Dahlia,
Rose, and fruit growing, not to mention smaller matters, whatever may
be their counteracting uses to bee-keepers, which I have yet to learn
from observation. I once killed about 2750 earwigs at one round of my
garden and orchard, and I certainly have no wish to renew the
stock.— J. Hiam.

- Canker in Fruit Trees — I see (page 467) that Mr. J. Hiam

is satisfied he “can cure canker by dressings of insecticides and lime,”
Will he explain his methods? also how he induces his men to apply the
lime?— B. D. K,

- Professor Marshall Ward, — We learn that a Royal medal

has been awarded by the President and Council of the Royal Society to
Professor Marshall Ward in recognition of the merit of his researches
into the life history of fungi.

- Death of Mr. Robert Fraser. — We regret to learn of the

death, which took place recently, at the age of seventy-one years, of
Mr. Robert Fraser, senior partner in the firm of Messrs. Cunningham,
Fraser, & Co., nurserymen. Comely Bank, Edinburgh.

- Allotment Gardens in Bushy Park.— A letter was read at

a recent meeting of the Hampton Wick Local Board stating that the Chief
Commissioner of Works was willing, subject to the sanction of the
Treasury, to grant the Board 14 acres of land in Bushy Park for allotment
gardens at a rental of 70s. per acre per annum.

- - Mr. Swailes in your issue of the 23rd inst. (page 467), speaks

of Stephanotis Fruiting. I had two fine fruits on a plant two
years ago, one I cut off, and the other I saved ; in due course the fruit
ripened, and the seed sown from which I have fine young plants. —
Arthur Shambrook, Gardener, Sutton Hall, Derby.

- Death of Mr. Duncan Walsh.— On November 19th, Mr.

Duncan Walsh, for thirty-four years head gardener to the Earl of
Pembroke, Mount Merrion, near Dublin, passed away at the age of
si.xty-four. Retiring from active life but last June, he returned to his
native county, Ayrshire. His many friends will learn with regret that
he has not been longer spared to enjoy his well-earned rest. Though
not an exhibitor, he for many years assisted in judging at the shows
of the Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland. As a plant grower his
name is associated with the finest specimen of Darlingtonia californica
ever grown, and as a man he was esteemed by all who were privileged
to know him.

- Edinburgh Botanical Society, — At a recent meeting of

this Society, Dr. Christison in the chair, it was arranged that Mr
R. Lindsay of the Botanic Gardens should submit an obituary notice of
the late Mr. Jenner at the next meeting. Professor Bayley Balfour
intimated that Mr, George William Trail had presented his valuable
collection of British Algre, and a series of microscopic sections of the
same, to the Society ; also that Dr. Watt had given the Society a
herbarium of Indian plants, both donors stipulating that the collections
be kept intact during their lifetime. The Rev. Mr. Paul gave a report
of the Scottish Alpine Botanical Club’s excursion to Clova, and Mr.
Lindsay reported on the weather for October. Professor Bower was
elected President of the Society for the current year.

- Brighton and Sussex “ New ” Horticultural Society.

— At the monthly meeting of this Society a few days ago, Mr. Mark
Longhurst, the Secretary, gave some figures bearing on the success of
the recent Chrysanthemum Show in that town. On the first day, he
said, 3019 people paid for admission, and 5560 on the second day. The
takings at the doors amounted to £76 8s. the first afternoon, £78 17s.
the first evening, £77 17s. 6d. the second afternoon, and £102 4s. 6d. the
second evening. Up to the present time, apart from the ticket money,
their receipts throughout the year come to £1047, and probably, when
everything was settled up, their total takings for the year will be found
to be about £1060, and their expenses under £1000, The expenses of
the Spring Show were £233, and of the late Autumn Show £418 6s., so
that they had already paid out £656.

- Onions and the Maggot. — Having regard to the absolute

freedom from the maggot of Onion plants raised from autumn sowings,
it seems a pity that it was not the rule, more than it now is, to sow
in the autumn some of the best keeping varieties rather than White
Lisbon, Rocca, and Tripolis. The ordinary spring-sown varieties are just
as hardy, and certainly would keep very much longer. Such varieties
as Cocoa-nut, Sutton’s Globe, Southport Red, and Crimson Globe, all
the best of keepers, would prove of great value if grown from autumn
sowings. The Tripoli types are mature to-day, useless to-morrow
whilst the sorts I have named will keep till Christmas. A sowing
made early in April under glass would give strong plants to go out
at the end of May, and these would escape the maggot also. How
easy then is it to circumvent this pest which has done so much harm
in our Onion breadths, Surely these little experiments are well
worth trying.— D,

492

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ NoTember 30, 18»3.

- Cedrela australis. — The most valuable tree produced in New

South Wales is the so-called Red Cedar, Cedrela australis, which owes
its common name to the sweet smell of its wood. It is much lighter in
weight than mahogany, although it bears considerable resemblance to that
wood and is used for the same purposes, that is, for cabinet work and
furniture in general, and for the fittings of buildings, where the cost is
not too great. Where it is kept dry it is, says a colonial contemporary,
very durable. Naturally of a pleasing red, it turns to a deeper and
richer colour with age, and some trees have a beautiful grain. It is
stated that extensive plantations of young Cedar are being made every
year and are flourishing finely.

- Death op Mr. Isaac Dixox. — We regret to learn of the

death and burial of this well-known manager at Feltham, Middlesex, to
Messrs. C. Lee & Sons, the old nursery firm. The deceased had been in
the firm’s service as manager some twenty-five years, and also undertook
business journeys, so that he was very widely known. He was endowed
with great energy, and no doubt proved a valuable servant. We learn
that his very unexpected death is attributed to his having slept in a
damp bed at Ashford in Kent recently, as he returned home very weak,
and afilicted with great pain. The cause of death seems to have been
intermittent fever and ague. His death occurred on November 18th,
and his funeral on the 25th. This took place amidst great demonstra¬
tions of respect, a large number of Freemasons, of which body he was an
active member, also attending.

- The Royal Horticultural Society and South

Kensington. — In consequence of a leakage from the Council of the
Royal Horticultural Society a rumour was circulated about a fortnight
ago of a proposal that the Society should emigrate to the old region of
South Kensington, but under the circumstances we did not think it
appropriate to make public reference to the subject. As the proposal
was, however, freely spoken about in the Westminster Drill Hall last
Tuesday there are no grounds for refraining from stating that it is
understood that the question for making the Imperial Institute the head¬
quarters of the Society is under consideration. It would perhaps be con¬
sidered premature to discuss the matter in the absence of authoritative
information ; but it may be remarked that in the opinion of many
persons the Society has of late become more consolidated, and what
may be termed a settling down policy has been adopted with a gratifying
measure of success. In consequence of this there are not wanting
among its supporters those who look with a good deal of concern to any¬
thing of a disturbing nature occurring through a project of a speculative
character. Is not the Imperial Institute itself essentially speculative ?
Is it sufficiently consolidated to justify a move in the direction in¬
dicated ? and will it be safe to place the Society under the wing of a
body of South Kensingtonian speculators ? These questions are mooted
as needing, what we may expect they will receive, the gravest considera¬
tion before any change that may be of a momentous character is finally
decided upon. It is tolerably well known that the often dingy Drill
Hall has no special charms for us, but we are bound to say that
horticulturists have adapted themselves to it almost better than we
could have anticipated, and there are several we suspect who at the
present moment think it safer in this reference to “ endure the ills we
have than fly to others that we know not of,” Possibly the Council
of the Royal Horticultural Society in view of the disquieting rumours
may think it desirable to make an official statement on the important
subject, and show that if a change is intended there are reasons in its
favour so strong as to be practically irresistible. N.B. — Since the
foregoing was in type we are informed on the best authority that pro¬
posals emanating from the authorities of the Imperial Institute have
been made to the Council with a view to the removal of the head¬
quarters of the Society to South Kensington ; a proposal which we have
the satisfaction of announcing was not considered desirable in the
interests of the Society.

NOTHING PAYS— A WAIL.

We often read glowing accounts of the profits and benefits to be
derived from fruit growing and market gardening. Personally I believe
there are some, but not to so large an extent as some persons may
imagine. A market grower from the west of England called here at
the early part of this week. He gave an exceedingly doleful account
o the work. His Apples and Pears were not worth gathering, price
emg so low, and bushels were spoiling; the same with Plums and
bush fruits. He is of opinion that London is one of the worst markets

we have. I note a few wholesale prices in a western town . Peaches,
large ones, lOd. per dozen ; Grapes, 8d. per pound on the 18th November
(Gros Colman) ; Tomatoes, 3d. per pound ; Cabbages, 3d. per dozen ;
Celery, 6d. per dozen.

What conclusion can anyone come to after reading the prices realised
with those given in horticultural papers, and those charged by the
retailer ? Is it the middleman or excessive railway rates that prevent
the better distribution of vegetables and fruits about the country ? The
grower above referred to called at some London retail shops, offering
to send to them direct, but they preferred going to the market. There
is no doubt that the prices published from time to time are misleading.
We need some re-arrangement, so that we can get something more
authentic. I cannot but think that if the working classes and others
would spend^more on vegetables and fruits, and less in other question¬
able ways, they and the country would be better for it. I may add
that this west of England grower does not find Mushrooms a paying
crop. I send his wail to the Journal of HorticulUire. — A. J. Brown,
School of Handicraft, Chertsey .

[The west of England grower is either in an unsuitable locality, has
unfavourable soil, or in some way is lacking in the requisites which
enable so many growers of vegetables and fruit to pay £5 an acre for
the land and live, through their good judgment and effective work, in
comfortable if not affluent circumstances. . Some men are so satisfied
with growing first-class garden produce for sale that they are, as far as
is practicable, extending their operations. We are intimately acquainted
with one market gardener who has been working 100 acres of land at a
rent of £5 an acre, who has just taken twice the extent of land ; also,
we are in touch with a working man who commenced with less than an
acre, who is now seizing all the vacant plots in his district at Is. a rod,
or £8 an acre. He does not trouble himself about published prices,
but grows the best “stuff” he possibly can, has it ready as early as
others (a little earlier if possible), and sells only first-class samples,
taking his chance about prices. There are thousands of tons of garden
produce for which there are no prices, and it cannot therefore pay for
growing and sending to market.]

CROTON RUSSELLI.

As will be seen by referring to the accompanying illustration
(fig. 71), this is a distinct Croton, and one that will probably be
included in most collections. The plant from which the engraving
has been prepared was exhibited by Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Clapton,
at a meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society on November 14tb,
a first-class certificate being awarded for it. When well developed
the leaves are large and the upper surface is bronzy green, richly spotted
and veined with yellow and red. The under surface is bronzy red. The
plant appears to be of a dwarf habit, and will be useful for decorative
purposes.

PRIZES AT THE FORESTRY EXHIBITION.

Allow me as one of the “ unfortunate ” prizewinners at the late
Earl’s Court Exhibition, to add a few remarks to “ Exhibitor’s ” note,
page 444. I wrote some two months ago to Mr. H. Milner, asking that
the prize money due to me should be paid, and a few days later received
a reply that my letter should be attended to in due course, and although
in the schedule it stated that all prizes would be paid within a month of
the Exhibition I have up to this date received neither money nor other
reply. Like “ Exhibitor” I thought such names as Mr. H. Turner and
Mr. Milner were sufficient guarantee of proper civility and respect being
shown to everyone. I know of one exhibitor whose expenses were con¬
siderably over £10, and who has all along looked forward to about as
much prize money to repay him for expenses incurred. No reply what¬
ever has been received by him to his application for the amount which
he won.

As “ Exhibitor ” states, if anyone has received prize money it would
be as well to at once say so, if not I think all should fall in with his
suggestion and take the matter to court. I will willingly give my mite
towards the cost, for I feel confident that exhibitors are fully entitled
to the prize money due to them.

I was painfully surprised to learn from “ Exhibitor’s ” letter that the
donations promised to the gardeners’ charities have not yet been paid,
and I am sure it will come as a like surprise to a great many more, as I,
with many friends, had often spoken of it as a most benevolent action
and one deserving of the warmest praise.

Surely Mr. H. Turner, as the head of a most respected firm, and
whose name has often adorned the pages of the Journal, will give us
some explanation. If the Exhibition has been a failure, what have the
officials to lose by at once saying so ? If, on the other hand, they really
intend paying, why not at once state the cause of the delay, and so settle

K^vember 30, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

493

the matter ? No one wishes to be unfair, and a few lines from either
Mr. H. Turner or Mr. Milner would suffice. — Another Exhibitor.

[We had pleasure in giving publicity to whatever might be calcu¬
lated to contribute to the success of the Earl’s Court Exhibition, and
have now, therefore, the less hesitation, in common fairness to exhibitors,
to allow them to draw public attention to the position they are in. The
letter of our correspondent, it will be conceded, is a temperate one, and
we agree with him that an explanation is due, and we trust may be
forthcoming under the very unusual circumstances now existing.]

A CALL AT CHILWELL.

In the last issue of the Journal at page 470 brief reference was made
to Messrs. J. R. Pearson & Sons’ Chrysanthemums, which are, however.

attention is being directed to the fruit, it must not be thought that the
remainder is being neglected, for such is by no means the case. Each
department is under the personal supervision of one or other •member of
the firm, cleanliness and good order prevailing throughout.

General Plants.

As the Chrysanthemums were mentioned last week attention will
now be turned to general plants, which are grown in finely built
structures erected by the well-remembered father of the present firm
Mr. J. R. Pearson. Good as are the houses they are in no way superior to
their contents, the plants throughout being in perfect health and free
from any signs of insect pests. For Zonal Pelargoniums the firm has
been renowned for many years, and is likely to be maintained if those
now in bloom may be taken as a criterion. The plants have been
flowering for months, and appear likely to continue doing so, for they
are furnished with an abundance of buds. The plants are mostly of

Fig 71.— CROTON RUSSELLI.

only one of the many excellent features of this old established firm. It
is my intention in these notes to refer to the plant houses and the
extensive fruit tree nursery, each of which departments is in admirable
order and replete with good things. A visit to Chilwell must always be
full of interest, for at all times there is much to see. During the spring
months the Narcissi, in which Mr. Duncan Pearson is taking such an
interest, present a magnificent sight, as also do the fruit trees when they
are bearing their delicately tinted flowers. Later the greenhouses will
afford sufficient pleasure to repay a journey. Again, when fruit is
hanging on the trees one could not do better than pay a call, and at
planting time, when fruit trees are being sent away to all parts of the
country, a spectacle of life and activity is presented such as will not
perhaps be seen at any other season of the year. It was at this time
when my visit was paid. So successful have Messrs. Pearson been with
fruit trees that they are devoting every yard of available land to this
department of their business ; but though such a vast amount of

dwarf habit, and the blooms of much substance, with pips of perfect
form and heavy trusses, which stand boldly out from the foliage.

On the back wall of the Pelargonium house, which is a lean-to struc¬
ture, is growing Asparagus plumosus. That the position is admirably
suited to this plant is evident by the luxuriant growths it is making,
and which afford numberless fronds for decorative purposes at all times,
but more especially during the early months of the year, when Maiden¬
hair Fern is somewhat on the wane. Notwithstanding the freedom with
which the Asparagus grows, Messrs. Pearson find it difficult to meet the
demands, their cut-flower trade having developed to an extraordinary
extent during the past few years. Eucharises, too, are largely grown,
and are now affording an abundance of their chastely beautiful blossoms,
which perhaps have no equal, and certainly no superior in many phases
of decorative work. As a berried plant for the embellishment of rooms
Adisia crenulata is splendid. The berries are brightly coloured, and the
foliage of a deep glossy green. With reasonable care and attention

491

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Kovember 30, 1893.

these plants will last in a room in perfect condition for a long time, and
it is surprising that they are not more popular. The stock at Chil well
is an extensive one, all the plants bearing the impress of careful attention
and good health. On the roof of one of the intermediate houses
Stepbanotis floribunda is growing wonderfully, and must present when
in full flower a perfect picture. I trust that on my next visit to
Chilwell it will be in this condition, for 1 would much like to see it.
Marhchal Niel Eoses are evidently a speciality, and are largely grown.
The plants are most noteworthy for the extraordinary growth and the
admirable manner in which the shoots are ripened. Most assuredly
they will produce an abundance of fine blooms. The plants are, however,
grown for sale, and one would think that there were enough to supply
all the growers in England, so great is the number. An unusual sight is
seen in the two enormous banks of Adiantum, formed of huge, healthy
looking plants, some of the fronds of which are of great size and substance.

The collection of Orchids cannot be called an extensive one, but if
lacking somewhat in quantity it makes up in quality. Cattleyas,
Odontoglossums, and Cypripediums are represented by beautiful plants,
all of which are remarkable for their healthy appearance ; but amongst
the Orchids the Coelogyne cristata must be accorded the premier
position. The plump pseudo-bulbs and stout green leaves denote
the way the plants are grown, and the condition they are in at present.
They will give a number of beautiful flowers. This does not
by any means exhaust the list of plants grown, and that well, at Chil¬
well ; but mention must now be made of the fruit trees. Mr. C, E.
Pearson, who takes charge of the plant and flower department, must be
accorded a word of praise for the excellent condition of his charge,
in which it need scarcely be said he takes the most intense interest.

FiiuiT Trees.

The fruit tree department is under the active supervision of Mr.
Alfred Pearson, and the state of the trees and the ground throughout is
a striking evidence of his ability and intelligence. As in the other
divisions of the firm, cleanliness and good quality appear to be the
objects striven after, and but a glance suffices to prove how admirably
these are achieved. At this season of the year the fruit department
encroaches on that of the plants, inasmuch as one of the largest houses
is devoted entirely to a show of Apples and Pears, arranged in dishes on
a huge centre table. And a sight they present ! All the popular
varieties are represented, but the place of honour, both in the house
and in the hearts of the members of the firm, is accorded to Newton
Wonder. It is certainly a handsome Apple, and combines with its
good appearance other high qualities rarely found in one variety. The
tree is a splendid cropper, and the fruits colouring well are in great
demand in markets. The flavour leaves nothing to be desired, and as it
possesses exceptional keeping qualities, it is an Apple which cannot
fail to be more largely grown than it is at present. Thinking so highly
of it, the Chilwell firm has a grand stock. Young and old, trained
and untrained trees are there in abundance, ready to be sent to
their customers, and practically certain to give them satisfaction.
Amongst the other Apples to be seen in the house were Wellington
(Dumelow’s Seedling), Potts’ Seedling, the Apple par excellence for
town gardens ; King of the Pippins, Blenheim Orange, in superb
condition ; and Bramley’s Seedling, in splendid form. Pears did not
perhaps show to such exceptional advantage, but this may be accounted
for by the visitor still having those beautiful Apples in his eye. How¬
ever, some grand examples of the leading varieties are noticeable,
and the Potatoes with which the end of the house is occupied would
be a credit to any exhibition. Clean shapely tubers — some large,
others small, but all firm and good — are there in abundance.

From the show of fruit a walk of ten or fifteen minutes brings
us to the fruit tree nursery, and here on every side are seen the
signs of a busy time. Thousands of trees have been taken up,
and yet thousands remain. The stock of trees is a very extensive one.
Upwards of thirty acres are entirely devoted to them, and the trees
throughout are in splendid condition. Horizontally trained trees are a
great feature at Chilwell, and as all are trained to a uniform measure,
it will readily be imagined that their appearance is first-rate. Trained
trees are there in all sizes, from the smallest up to the giant which is
ready to fill a blank in the garden and commence cropping at once. No
fear need be felt as to the advisability of buying such large specimens,
for they have been regularly transplanted, and will lift with an
abundance of those healthy fibrous roots which are so essential. The
trees are beautifully trained, and present an excellent appearance.

Plums are represented by the thousand, and are carrying splendid
wood, rich in promise of future crops. This is in fact applicable to all
the trees in the nursery, for the shoots throughout are stout and
perfectly ripened. The standards are magnificent trees and cover
some acres of ground. The stems are straight, clean and sturdy,
every one having had a stake attached to it. This will readily be
recognised as a stupendous task, but it is only following what appears
to be a rule of the firm — do everything well. Damsons, Apples, Pears
and Plums, all are worth going to Chilwell to see. It would, of course, be
impossible to particularise the varieties of fruits grown at Chilwell, their
name is legion. No variety possessing good qualities is omitted from
the collection, all receiving alike the same excellent and thorough
culture. Grown on thoroughly prepared soil, better specimens could
not be wished for. I spent a delightful time at Chilwell, for there is
much to see and much to learn, and the hearty welcome accorded makes
one feel at home at once. Let all readers of the Journal who can
possibly do so visit Chilwell, they will be courteously received and see
much which cannot fail to be of benefit to them in the future. — Nomad.

The Eose in 1893,

{Concluded from page 465.')

As 1 said last week, 1893 was not an amateur’s year, and, therefore,
we have no such record of success as that of the Eev. J. H. Pemberton
some years ago, when from the beginning to the end of the season he
carried all before him. But it was different with the professional
growers. Messrs. Harkness & Sons, besides the challenge trophies already
alluded to, carried off every first prize for seventy-twos in the kingdom,
a record unique in itself and of which they may be justly proud. This
prowess of the northern growers was kept up to the very last, and at the
Show at the Agricultural Hall at the end of August Messrs. Cocker & Sons
of Aberdeen staged a remarkably fine collection of blooms, remarkable for
their substance and brightness of colour. The Tea Eoses were, as might
have been expected, exhibited well, but the glory of the victory had
passed from west to east, and while Somerset and Hereford were out of
it Bast Anglia carried all before it and the flowers of the Eevs. Foster
Melliar and H. A. Berners will not be soon forgotten. Some of the Teas
were exceptionally fine ; never have Marie Van Houtte and Madame
Cusin been exhibited as they were this year. The bloom of the latter
shown by Eev, Foster Melliar at the National was certainly never
equalled in any exhibition on this side of the Channel.

Madame Hoste has fully j ustified the expectations of those who thought
that it only required time to win its way. A doubt still hangs over
Ernest Metz as to whether it has got that constancy which exhibitors
look for ; of its beauty there can be no question. Whilst writing about
Teas one cannot forbear alluding to the excellent manner in which
Mr. Geo. Mount of Canterbury has exhibited this year. In a season
when so early and so warm a place as Canterbury must have severely
tried him, he has brought forward his Teas from the very earliest to the
latest shows ; his blooms have been always fresh and of good substance,
and his stands have always contained the best leading varieties. Two
other nurserymen who have occupied a more prominent place than here¬
tofore are Messrs. Merryweather of Southwell and Messrs. Prior & Son
of Colchester.

Passing away now from this rapid review of the season’s Eoses as far
as exhibition varieties are concerned, let us ask in what way it has
influenced what are ordinarily termed garden Eoses, These comprising
Hybrid Chinas, Hybrid Bourbons, Gallicas, and most single Eoses, were
over long before the exhibition season commenced, and consequently
the display of them at our shows was in most cases deficient. Some very
beautiful stands it is true were shown, but not in the quantity that one
would have desired. And in truth the Eose season in our gardens was
a very short one, but what we lost in July has been largely made up
for us by the profusion and excellent quality of the flowers in September
and October. I have seen Hybrid Perpetuals which have equalled the
July flowers, while of Teas the display has been marvellous. The
excellence of the flowers could not have been surpassed even in their
normal blooming season, and the same account reached me from all
quarters. And even as late as October 25th I could gather fresh
coloured and good sized blooms from my own small collection.

Perhaps the most noticeable fact with regard to the excellence and
number of Eoses in October was furnished by the Oyster Feast at
Colchester, when the tables were decorated by upwards of 4000 blooms,
and although I was not there to see, being obliged to refuse the invita¬
tion, yet I am told that the flowers were exceptionally good, and the
effect very striking. Colchester, too, possesses in Mrs. Orpen one whose
taste in decoration has been proved so frequently, and 1 believe she
helped not a little to carry out the arrangements ; at least I am told it
was her hand which made the buttonhole bouquets with which each
guest was furnished.

In one respect the dry season has been propitious. Most of the shows
have been held under favourable circumstances as regards weather with
the somewhat unfortunate exception of the day on which the provincial
Show of the N.E.S. was held at Worksop, and yet with all that I hear
ominous sounds with regard to the probable endurance of many of them.
It will be a matter I am sure of the sincerest regret if the contemplated
breaking up of the Eeigate Association takes place. I have been told
by several who have attended many of the exhibitions that Eeigate
stood easily this year in front of all. Sad that it should be the last
note of the dying swan. How many pleasant days have we spent there,
and what a home of thoroughly good rosarians it was. Can one ever
forget the pleasant meetings at the late Mr. Baker’s, and after his death
the gatherings round Mr. Hayward’s hospitable board? But times are
altered. Mr. Baker passedaway some years ago, Mr. Waterlow’s beautiful
place at Great Doods is in the market, Mr. John Pawle has left Eeigate,
Mr. Sargent and Mr. West have pretty well given up exhibiting, Mr,
Wollaston has long since retired, and when such defections as these take
place we all know how difficult it is to revive an interest. On the
other hand, new societies spring up. The enthusiasm for the Eose does
not seem to diminish ; as some of the veterans fall out of the ranks young
and active recruits take their place, and yet one asks with some degree of
misgiving, Where are the successors of the giants to come from ? Ever and

November 30, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

496

anon we hear oE some new amateur going largely in for Roses, as in the
case of Mr. Tate of Leatherhead and Mr. Machin at Worksop, and we
can only hope that many more of the same character may come forward,
and that the Ruse amateurs of the future may be worthy successors of
the Jowetts and Bakers, the Halls and Whitwells of former days. —
D., Deal.

PEARS IN 1893.

The late summer and autumn fruits are nearly over, but it is no
wonder after such a summer of agreeable sunshine. Take Pears for
instance. With us Doyenn6 d’Et4, Beurr6 Giffard, and Jargonelle, three
of the earliest, were all ripe in July. Williams’ Bon Chr§tien, usually a
late August and September Pear, was on a south wall fit to gather the
end of July, and fit to eat the first week in August ; but trees of it in
the open, and on a wall with a north aspect, kept the supply on till the
middle of September. This deservedly popular variety should be planted
in this latter position, if there is space to spare. Louis Bonne of Jersey,
Beurr4 Bose, and Marie Louise were good, and suitable for use a month
before the usual time, so also was Duchesse d’Angouleme.

I saw some fine French Duchesses in a fruiterer’s shop in August’
General Todleben, Forelle, Beurr4 Diel, Doyenn4 du Comice, and Brown
Beurr4 were all good, but they are over now ; and Glou Morceau is in
use, when it has usually come in at Christmas time. The same may be
said of Josephine de Malines, a splendid Pear when grown against south
walls. Beurr4 Ranee is not ripe yet, and will prove serviceable. The
free-bearing Nec Plus Meuris is not a very large Pear, but the quality is
likely to be good this year. Many of them will be ripe in December,
and possibly will last through January. There was no crop on Crasanne
this year, when there is I have found it good for January.

A large bush of Nec Plus Meuris this year produced 3 bushels of clean
fruit. Bergamotte Esperen, the latest of all kinds with me, planted as
an orchard standard produced nearly 4 bushels, half of which, if they
finish in the fruit room, will be fit for dessert, the rest will be rather
small. These two last kinds should be in every collection of Pears for a
late supply, although it is not every year that we have so favourable for
Pears.

A free-bearing, medium-sized Pear for kitchen purposes I find in
Bellissime d’Hiver, and will remain in use for a long time. The fruit
comes very even and clean as an orchard tree, none very large, and no
very small ones. — A. Harding.

Though I have no complaint to register with regard to Apples, and
I hope to have a sufficient supply as long as usual, in the case of Pears
I am not so sanguine. Not that the fruit is keeping worse than usual,
for unless in the case of those that have been pecked by birds it is
keeping very well ; but the fruit is ripening so abnormally early that
there is no likelihood of there being a supply to the usual time. For
instance, our Marie Louise is now over, and in former years there was
no difficulty in keeping it till Christmas. Winter Nelis, a variety
which was wont to be in use during January and part of February, is
now ripening, and I sent in the first dish on November 2l8t. Van
Mons L4on Leclerc is quite ripe ; Easter Beurre and Beurr4 Ranee are
softening. There is one redeeming feature however, and that is the
splendid flavour most varieties developed. I do not remember Pears
ever to have been so richly flavoured before, sorts that were only fit
for stewing in most seasons being this year really well-flavoured. — B.

Pears verstis Peaches,

The article on Pears versus Peaches by “ 0.,” in the Journal of
Horticulture, September 21st (page 259), has brought out some different
opinions. It may interest readers to learn that I had occasion to buy
Peaches the first week in September. There were a great number that
could not be sold at any price owing to the glut. I paid from Is. to 3s.
per dozen. They were of splendid colour and of good flavour. This was
at Doncaster during the races ; a week previous they could be bought
at any price.

I had a good crop of Pitmaston Duchess Pear, which I gathered a
week or two after, and sold them all in the trade to sell again at
10s. per dozen. There was not a fruit under a pound weight ; the
heaviest weighed over li lb. My employer was rather interested in
them when growing, as he thought such large Pears would be useless to
eat, but after tasting one he said it was one of the best flavoured Pears
he had ever tasted.

I was surprised when I read “ E. M.’s ” (page 373) remarks anent
Beurre Diel being of no flavour. In Yorkshire it is perfect in flavour.
We have some grand fruit of it this year. Clapp’s Favourite, which is
condemned by some as having no flavour, is very good with us. It must
be the soil, as we never water our trees. The past season has just
suited the land, which is on the magnesian limestone. Durondeau,
Winter Nelis, and Doyenn4 du Comice are now in perfect condition,
but Thompson’s and Duchesse d’Angoul^me are no better than a
Turnip. — Northerner.

The Hessle Pear.

Referring to the interesting note respecting this popular Pear
from Mr. Lord (page 469), I draw attention to the fact that all round
London in numerous old orchards it was evidently the one Pear for
market growth and sale. Nearly all the old trees We still see standing
about in the suburbs are of the Hessle, and young trees are still largely
planted. The market men persist in calling the variety “Hazel,” but
as the calling things by other than correct appellations is a very common

feature in the market trade, it rather than otherwise supports Mr. Lord’s
contention The tree is a very handsome grower, presenting in standard
form the most perfect of pyramidal heads, the young growth wearing
a drooping aspect. It is one of the hardiest of Pears, and should
make an excellent secondary stock for double working. It is also an
almost constant fruiter, and although the fruits are smallish and of
very poor quality, yet because they can be gathered early, and are
abundantly produced, seems to be profitable, and that is all the market
grower troubles about. — A. D.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

November 28th.

The meeting on this occasion was a comparatively small one, and but
few exhibits were forthcoming. Some Orchids were staged, whilst
Zonal Pelargoniums and Chrysanthemums made a fair display. Fruit
was only moderately represented.

Fruit Committee. — Present; Philip Crowley, Esq. (in the chair).
Rev. W. Wilks, Dr. Hogg, T. F. Rivers, H. J. Pearson, Harrison Weir,
J. Cheal, G. Goldsmith, G. Bunyard, W. Warren, A. Dean, A. H. Pearson,

F. Q. Lane, H. Balderson, J. Hudson, G. Wythes, A. J. Laing,

G. T. Miles, and J. Wright.

The duties of the Committee were the reverse of heavy, but interest¬
ing and well-grown specimens were submitted for examination. The
English Fruit Growing Company, Hereford, sent a dish of very fine
Apples, named Byford Beauty. The fruit was quite as large as
Warner’s King, yet distinct from it, being firmer and heavier. They
were said to have been borne by an orchard tree, described as an
excellent grower and free bearer. Mr. J. Watkins, Pomona Nurseries,
Hereford, also despatched fruits, but they had not arrived. This is not
a new Apple, but is grown in the neighbourhood of Hereford, and there
esteemed. An award of merit was voted unanimously.

At a meeting in September an award of merit was granted to
Messrs. W. Brown & Sons, The Nurseries, Wells, for Bartlett's Glory
Ai^ple, the fruits of good size and attractively coloured. They were
taken to Chiswick for testing their keeping, but on being examined now
were found to be partially decayed, and consequently no advance was
made on the September award. Mr. Bunyard sent fruits of Christmas
Pearmain, a good sized conical fruit with a tender flesh and pleasant
flavour, but over-ripe ; also highly coloured medium sized fruits of
Foster’s Scarlet Prolific of the Cellini type ; and Messrs. J. Peed & Sons
sent a dish of Ouseley’s King of the Valley Apple, being in appearance
intermediate between Queen Caroline and Golden Noble. No awards
were made for the varieties mentioned. Mr. T. Arnall, Brookside,
Headington Hill, Oxford, sent remarkably large specimens of Uvedale’s
St. Germain Pears. Twelve of the fruits grown by Mr. Arnall weighed
27 lbs. 6 ozs., the heaviest Pear being 3 lbs. 8 ozs. in weight. Eleven
out of the twelve fruits were placed on the table, and a bronze Banksian
medal was unanimously recommended.

The Liverpool Horticultural Company sent bunches of the Ham¬
burgh Colman Grape. The variety originated with Mr. E. H. Woodhall,
St. Michael’s, Scarborough, and was said to ripen a month earlier than
Gros Colman and flourish in cool vineries. The best bunches exhibited
were produced from a Vine inarched on another variety (not named)
at Allerton, Liverpool ; but the Grapes were described as the most
tasteless ever tasted by the Committee. Some berries from the original
stock were better, but their appearance, through injury in transit, the
reverse of tempting, and no award could be made.

A large and well-grown cluster of Bananas (Musa Cavendish!) was
sent by Mr. J. Quarterman, gardener to C. E. Smith, Esq., Silvermere,
Cobham, and a cultural commendation promptly awarded. Messrs.
Chantrier Freres, Mortefontaine, France, sent fruits of the Persimmon,
Diospyros Kaki, but they were not in good condition, and it is very
rare indeed, if ever, that Persimmons are placed before the Committee
in satisfactory condition.

Mr. G. Goldsmith, gardener to Sir E. G. Loder, Bart., Leonardslee,
Horsham, exhibited a very fine collection of thirty dishes of Apples and
twelve of Pears, all of first-class exhibition quality. The Pears were
fine and the Apples beautifully coloured, Barnack Beauty was perhaps
never seen in richer crimson garb. It would have gladdened the eyes of
Mr. Richard Gilbert, who, we think, “ discovered ” this variety in the
neighbourhood of Stamford. A silver Knightian medal was unanimously
recommended for this most creditable collection of fruit.

Floral Committee. — Present : W. Marshall, Esq. (in the chair) ;
Messrs. R. Owen, Chas. F. Druery, H. Herbst, R. Dean, G. Stevens,
C. F. Bause, C. J. Salter, Geo. Gordon, J. D. Pawle, C. Jeffries, Jas.
Walker, C. E. Shea, T. Baines, C. Noble, H. Cannell, and Peter Barr.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park Nurseries, Enfield, staged a
collection of Cyclamens, the plants in which were sturdy and finely
flowered. Greenhouse plants were also staged by the same firm (silver
Banksian medal). Messrs. Henry Cannell & Sons, Swanley, arranged a
collection of Zonal Pelargoniums, conspicuous alike for the perfect
contour of pips and large size of the trusses. Amongst the most promi¬
nent were Etoile de Lyon, Launcelot, Lucrece, Madame de Bondeville,
King of the Purples, W. P. Wright, and Albion. Chrysanthemums were
also" staged by Messrs. Cannell. The blooms were of fine shape and
substance. Robt. Flowerday, C. Westland, Judge Hoit (award of merit,
see below). Golden Wedding, Mrs. C. Harman Payne, Golden Ga'e
(award of merit, see below), Mdlle. Th4rese Rey, Robert Owen, and
Madame Ad. Girard were the most noticeable (silver Banteian medal).

496

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

£ November 30, 1893.

Mr. Robert Owen, Maidenhead, showed some handsome Chrysanthe¬
mums, including Mrs. John Gardiner (award of merit), Mrs.
J. Mitchell (award of merit), Sir Titus, Walter Surman, E. L.
Jamieson, H. M. Pollett (award of merit), John Noble, H. L.
Sunderbruck, Elsie Walker (award of merit), Little Pet and Le
Prince du Bois (award of merit). Mr. C. Blick, The Warren, Hayes,
showed blooms of Chrysanthemum Helen Crawford. Mr. Salter, gardener
to T. B. Haywood, Esq., Woodhatch Lodge, Reigate, showed magnificent
flowers of Lord Brooke, Elmer d’ Smith (award of merit). Chrysanthe¬
mum Eric was shown by Mr. Duncan, gardener to C. J. Lucas, Esq.,
Wareham Court, Horsham. Mr. J, Reynolds, Netley Castle, exhibited
Chrysanthemum Lady Emma. A cultural commendation was accorded
to Mr. Blandford, gardener to Mrs. Haselfoot, Moorhill, Southampton,
for pots of yellow Chrysanthemums. Begonia Madame Lebourg was
shown by Mr. H. B. May, Dyson’s Lane Nurseries, Upper Edmonton,
and it appears to be a variety of much promise. A first-class
certificate was accorded to Mr. May for Acalypha Macafeena, which
is described elsewhere. A handsome piece of Aglaomorpha (Polypo¬
dium) Meyeniana was also shown by Mr. May, and awarded a first-class
certificate (see below). Mr. T. S. Ware, Hale Farm N urseries, Tottenham,
showed a small collection of plants, and received a vote of thanks.
Lachenalia pendula, Leontice Leontopetalum, and Narcissus mono-
phyllus were represented. Blooms of Lilium nepalense were shown by
Messrs. H. Low & Co.

The group of foliage and flowering plants arranged by Mr. G. Wythes
improved what was otherwise a sparse meeting. Calanthe Veitchi
superba, Cypripedium insigne, Poinsettia pulcherrima. Palms, Crotons,
Dracaenas, and Ferns were all of exceptional merit, and well deserved
the silver Flora medal which was awarded. Sterculia nobilis in fruit
was shown by Mr. Wythes, and received a vote of thanks. A cultural
commendation was accorded to Mr. Latham, Botanic Gardens, Birming¬
ham, for splendid piece of Callicarpa purpurea.

Prizes were offered for groups of Chrysanthemums, the first being
awarded to Mr. E. Vince, gardener, Highgate Cemetery. The plants
were well grown and flowered, and included amongst others. Mens.
Bernard, Florence Percy, Viviand Morel, and Val d’Andorre ; Mr.
Wythes, gardener to the Duke of Northumberland, Syon House,
Brentford, being accorded the second position.

Orchid Committee.— Present ; H. J. Veitch, Esq. (in the chair) ;
Dr. Masters, Messrs. Jas. O’Brien, H. M. Pollett, Thos. Statter, W. H.
White, E, Hill, Jas. Douglas, T. B. Haywood, and F. Sander.

Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, sent some choice Cypripediums,
including C. Lynchianum (C. Spicerianum x C. selligerum* majus),
C. Pyrorianum, Calanthe Sandhurstiana, a bright rosy red flower, and a
basket of Calanthe Victoria Regina, tastefully arranged with Asparagus
plumosus nanus. An award of merit was adjudged for this Orchid, which
is described elsewhere. Mrs. Haselfoot, Moorhill, Southampton (gar¬
dener, Mr. N. Blandford), sent a dozen grand spikes of Cattleya labiata,
and a vote of thanks was accorded. W. R. Lee, Esq., Beech Lawn,
Audenshaw, Manchester (gardener, Mr. J. Billington), sent Cypripedium
Leeanum superbum and C. Mary Lee (award of merit). Messrs. B. S.
Williams & Son, Upper Holloway, procured an award of merit for
Calanthe Mylesi, which is described below. Walter Cobb, Esq., Dulcote,
Tunbridge Wells (gardener, Mr. J. Howes) sent Cypripedium x Cobbianum.
T. Statter, Esq., Stand Hall, Manchester, had Cypripedium Fairiano-
Lawrencianum (award of merit), and Lselia anceps Amesiana. A first-
class certificate was awarded for the last-named plant, and a description
of it is given elsewhere.

Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea, sent a
small collection of choice Orchids. These included Catasetum Darwini-
anum and Cypripedium Minos, for which awards of merit were adjudged.
The same firm had a plant of Habenaria ciliaris, and a botanical certifi¬
cate was awarded for this. R. J. Measures, Esq., Cambridge Lodge,
Camberwell, secured an award of merit for Cypripedium insigne var.
Illustre, a distinct form. Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Clapton, had a few
Cypripediums and a plant of Vanda Sanderiana.

Certificates and Awards op Merit.

Acalypha Macafeeana (J. Veitch & Sons). — This is a splendid foliage
plant. The largest leaves on the plant exhibited were nearly a foot in
length and 8 inches wide. The upper surface is bright red blotched
brown, the under part being also red (first-class certificate).

Aglaomorpha QPolypodium') 3Ieyeniana (H. B. May). — This is a
splendid Fern from the Philippine Islands. The fronds are more than
2 feet in length, and a graceful habit. It is apparently a good Fern for
growing in a basket (first-class certificate).

Calanthe Mylesi (B. S. Williams & Son). — A charming white
Calanthe, the result of a cross between C. nivalis and C. Veitchi (award
of merit).

Calanthe Victoria Regina (F. Sander & Co.). — This is an exceed¬
ingly pretty form, and was raised by Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart. A
card on the plant exhibited stated “ it was probably from C. Veitchi
and Limatodes rosea.” The flowers are large, blush pink, with a faint
tinge of yellow in the throat (award of merit).

Catasetum Darwinianum (J. Veitch cSc Sons) — A very fine species
from British Guiana. The flowers are a curious mixture of brown,
green, and creamy white (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Le Prince du Bois (R. Owen).— -A splendid
Japanese variety of a bright yellow shade (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Little Pet (R. Owen). — A pretty English-raised
Pompon, brownish red in colour (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum JSlise Walker (R. Owen). — A brick red Pompon
edged with yellow (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum H. M. Pollett (R. Owen). — An English-raised
seedling of Viviand Morel type, fine fiower, rich rosy pink (award of
merit).

Chrysanthemum Mrs. J. Mitchell (R. Owen). — An incurved sport
from Empress Eug4nie. Flower medium sized, and of a golden amber
creamy shade faintly suffused with rose (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Mrs. John Gardiner (R. Owen). — An incurved
variety, clear yellow, good shape.

Chrysanthemum Elmer d' Smith (T. B. Haywood, Esq.). — A large
Japanese, dull erimson, silvery reverse (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Golden Gate (H. Cannell & Sons). — A fine reflexed
Japanese, broad florets, clear yellow (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Judge Holt (H. Cannell & Sons). — A large
Japanese Anemone, soft rose colour (award of merit).

Cypripedium Mary Lee (W. R. Lee, Esq.). — This is the result
of a cross between C. Leeanum and C. Arthurianum. The dorsal
sepal is large with a deep white margin, spotted violet purple. The
base is green, spotted brown. The petals and lip are green, shaded
brown (award of merit).

Cypripedium Fainano-Lawrencianum (T. Statter, Esq.). — A dis¬
tinct hybrid, being the result of a cross between C. Fairieanum and
C. Lawrencianum. The dorsal sepal is white and green, heavily veined
with purple. The lip is bronzy green, while the petals, which droop,
are green spotted and margined purple (award of merit).

Cypripedium Minos (J. Veitch & Sons). — This is a beautiful hybrid.
It is the result of a cross between C. Anthurianum and C. Spiceranum.
The dorsal sepal is large, the greater portion white, densely spotted
crimson. The lip is dark shining brown, and the petals are yellowish
green, veined brown (award of merit).

Cypripedium insigne var. Illustre (R. J. Measures, Esq.). — A very
fine form of the well known type. The dorsal sepal is yellowish green,
covered with large brown spots, and a distinct white tip. The lip is a
bright brown, tinged with yellow, as are the petals (award of merit).

Lcelia anceps Amesiana (T. Statter, Esq.). — This is a beautiful
form of L. anceps. The sepals and petals are white, tinted rosy purple.
The front portion of the lip is very richly coloured, purplish magenta,
the throat being veined crimson and yellow (first class certificate).

VIOLAS.

I HAVE read with much interest “ W. D.’s ” contribution (page 438)
on new Violas. As I cultivated, very successfully for the most part,
during last summer the great majority of the beautiful varieties which
he so expressively characterises, 1 am perhaps in a position to endorse
his remarks. I may state that the following are my favourite Violas,
which I can strongly recommend to cultivators of this interesting
flower — Countess of Wharncliffe, Duchess of Fife, Bridesmaid, Lemon
Queen, Edina, Countess of Kin tore, H. M. Stanley, White Duchess,
White Flag, Violetta, Sylvia, and Countess of Hopetoun. Of these the
most charming are Countess of Wharncliffe, delicate satiny white ;
Violetta, the most graceful and highly perfumed of Dr. Stuart’s miniature
Violas, and Duchess of Fife. I think the last mentioned is superior
to White Duchess, which, unless in eomplexion, it resembles very
much. It is perhaps heroic as well as conservative to make this
assertion, after being assured by Mr. Wm. Cuthbertson of Rothesay, for
whose opinion, nevertheless, I have the greatest respect, that White
Duchess, which is the latest production of Mr. Baxter of Daldowie in
Perthshire, is “ the sweetest Viola in cultivation.”

Edina, justly eulogised by Mr. Wm. Dean of Birmingham (who has
practically written the Viola into its present popularity), is, I under¬
stand, a sport or variation from Countess of Kintore. During last
September, after keeping stationary in aspect for several months, it
began to be eccentric, and produced, to my gratification, several flowers
entirely distinct from the original “ Edina,” of much darker colour and
velvety hue. — David R. Williamson.

FLORAL NOMENCLATURE — CURIOUS SPELLING OF

NAMES.

I HAVE read with interest the paragraphs which have appeared in
the Journal of Horticulture from time to tfime on the above subject.
We all agree, I think, that gardeners are not expected to be versed in
Latin, Greek, German, and French ; but I think the exhibits at our
'shows ought to be correctly labelled for the benefit of the^ visitors. If
the exhibitor cannot do it, surely the Secretary or some official connected
with the arranging of exhibits could.

In visiting some of the recent Chrysanthemum shows I have noticed
the following, amongst others, inaccurately spelt, in addition to the
writing being illegible : For Miss Haggas, “ Miss Hageas ; ” for Etoile
de Lyon, “ Etole de Loyn ; ” for Nil Desperandum, ” Nil Desperande ; ”
for Audiguier, “ Audeger ; ” for Bahuant, “ Bahant,” and similar errors
which could easily have been avoided by copying the names from a
catalogue. I hope gardeners will avail themselves of the opportunities
now offered by the County Councils, whereby we can improve our
knowledge in subjects pertaining to gardening. — S. H.

I MUST disclaim any desire to make “West Anglia” (page 466)
appear responsible for the advocacy of a classical training for gardeners.

November 30, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

497

My point was, that if one is to be satisfied with nothing short of
perfection in the spelling and pronunciation of foreign languages, such
training is indispensable. I had no intention of charging “ West
Anglia” with inability to correctly decipher the mis-spelt labels to which
he referred. Whilst allowing that the exhibitor was in fault, I suggested
that some of the mistakes read as if the words were copied from labels
on which but a few legible letters remained. Of course a gardener
should see that his labels are always readable ; but somehow, especially
where single-handed gardeners are employed, labels have a way of
becoming periodically obliterated, and the gardener, whose time is
entirely occupied in the culture of his charges, finds on the eve of the
exhibition that a few isolated letters represent the name. Then comes
an attempt to copy the words as near as may be. This I know from
experience is what not infrequently occurs, and I have, happily, been
sometimes able to help exhibitors to rectify their errors before the
advent of the judge. However, as “West Anglia” says, this is
negligence, and while not defending the delinquents, I ask for a lenient
judgment.— S. W. F.

Hull Chrysanthemum Show, 1894.

We learn that the annual Exhibition of the Hull and East Riding
Chrysanthemum Society will next year be held on November 14th and
15th. Messrs. G. Gordon, E. Molyneux, and J, Wright have been
invited to act as judges.

Mr. Molyneux in Ireland.

I SPENT two hours with Mr. Molyneux yesterday (21st inst.) and
they were two valuable hours to me, but I am sadly disappointed that
his first impressions of Ireland cannot be favourable to us. To me they
are humiliating ; brought over as he has been to an amateur society at
a small place where two rival shows are held. I feel rather strongly on
this matter, for I was anxious that poor Ireland should be seen at its
best, not at its worst, and I do not consider that the remains of the
Chrysanthemum feast that have been set before the “ Chrysanthemum
king ” have been a dish worthy of him or of us. — Paddy.

Incurved Japanese Chrysanthemums.

May I ask some of your correspondents if L4on Frache and Mdlle.
Marie Hoste belong to the incurved Japanese section 1 At the Reading
Chrysanthemum Show the Society asked for twelve Japanese incurved,
distinct, and the stand that was placed first had the above mentioned
varieties in the twelve. I did not know they belonged to that section,
nor can I find them in the N.C.S. catalogue as such, and the Reading
Chrysanthemum Society is afiiliated with the National. — Beginner.

[If “ Beginner ” refers to our instructions to correspondents on
page 500 he will find these words : “ All articles intended for insertion
should be written on one side of the paper only.”]

An Amateur’s Chrysanthemums.

It is a well-known fact that Chrysanthemums are now grown nearly
as well by amateur cultivators as by most professional gardeners, and,
in the majority of cases, the former are well represented at exhibitions.
Around the metropolis thousands of amateurs take a keen interest in
Chrysanthemums, and amongst others that have come under our notice,
the collection brought together by Mr. A. Barrett, Alexandra Road,
Hornsey, is deserving of mention. Although not an exhibitor, this
gentleman is an enthusiastic grower, and considering his comparatively
brief experience in the matter, he has managed to produce some remark¬
ably fine blooms of the leading varieties. The plants are principally
grown for decorative purposes and for some weeks past Mr. Barrett has
had a charming display in the conservatory at his suburban residence.

Chrysanthemum Chas. Davis.

I THANK “ P.” (page 470) for his reply, but I do not consider his
answer a very satisfactory one. The introducer of Chas. Davis describes
the colour as “ clear rosy bronze,” and a« such I have seen many blooms
this season. The certificate was awarded to blooms of a pale yellow
slightly tinged with bronze on the outer florets. From “ P.’s” remarks
I gather that small undeveloped blooms of the orthodox hue would be
passed over for large blooms of much less colour. If he will refer to
my query he will notice that I stated the blooms which were passed
over were “perfect in shape, fresh and equal in size” to the faded
blooms to which the certificate was awarded. I have always understood
that fair-sized, fresh, highly coloured blooms of Etoile de Lyon, Mons.
Bernard, Viviand Morel, and many others counted many points more
than larger paler blooms of the same varieties. I know they are much
more difficult to grow. Surely size is not the standard of the N.C.S.
Floral Committee. — Querist.

The N.C.S. and Its Certificates.

“ P," (page 470), in answer to my complaint of the bad light,
points to the Drill Hall, and comforts himself with the idea that the

R.H.S. are no better off in this respect than the N.C.S. As I think I
have already seen quoted in the Journal, “ two wrongs do not make one
right.” But I cannot allow that the Floral Committee of the Royal
Horticultural Society sit in anything like such darkness as the Floral
Committee of the National Chrysanthemum Society did on the 8th inst.
What is more, the R.H.S. meet at midday and the N.C.S. at a later hour.
When the last-named Committee rose on the 8th it was near four o’clock,
and hardly possible for those sitting at the head of the table to distin¬
guish those at the bottom. I find the R.H.S. are more lavish than the
N.C.S. with their certificates ; will the latter follow the Royal in this ?
I hope not ; but according to “ P.’s ” argument they should. It may be
a comfort to the N.C.S. that the R.H.S. are no better off for light,
but it will not console those who send blooms for certificates. —
A Mummer.

Chicago Chrysanthemum Show.

A PRIVATE correspondent in Chicago has sent me a note concerning
the great Show recently held at the World’s Fair, Chicago, which he
says is the largest they have ever held there. The admission fee was
fifty cents., and the takings at the doors amounted to about £1800
(9000 dollars). In the “ American Florist ” is a long report of the
proceedings, by which it appears that there were exhibits from twenty-
one different States including Canada, and that, exclusive of seedlings
and undistributed kinds, about 110 varieties were staged. As may be
imagined most of these were of American origin, but it is gratifying to
find that our Yankee friends do not wholly rely upon native-raised
varieties, and that there was a fair number of novelties from the Old
World growers. The best of these were Mons. R. Bahuant, Chas. Davis,
H. Cannell, Jeanne Delaux, Domination, Bertha Flight, L’Enfant des
Deux Mondes, Kate Mursell, Robert Owen, Mdlle. Thbrese Rey, William
Seward, Source d’Or, and Viviand Morel.

Most of the cut blooms appear to have been set up in vases, some¬
times fifty in each, and illustrations are given of the collections staged
by the leading prizewinners. — P.

Certificated Chrysanthemums.

On Wednesday, the 22nd inst., the Floral Committee of the National
Chrysanthemum Society held a meeting at the Royal Aquarium, when
Mr. Geo. Gordon occupied the chair. There were some remarkably fine
exhibits submitted for adjudication, and the principal awards were as
follows : — A silver medal to Mr. Robert Owen of Maidenhead for an
excellent collection of novelties, principally English seedlings. A silver
medal to M. Ernest Cal vat for an interesting collection of his seedlings
raised this year, and which, in spite of the long journey from Grenoble,
had arrived in very much better condition than some of the previous
ones sent. A bronze medal to Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons for a collection
of cut Chrysanthemums, in which were some attractive novelties.

First-class certificates were granted to the following : —

William Tunnington (R. Owen). — A very large incurved flower, colour
deep golden bronze and crimson.

Mrs, T. Denne (R. Owen). — An American raised incurved Japanese
variety of good size and substance. Colour a deep rosy purple.

Prince du Bois (R. Owen). — This is a large globular Japanese flower,
with narrow, curly florets of pure yellow.

Golden Gate (R. Owen). — A Japanese with spreading florets, a large
bloom, colour deep bronzy yellow, and the petals of considerable length.

Cecil Ray (E. Beckett). — An English raised variety. A fine Japanese
flower with long, flat florets, colour pure yellow.

Mdlle. Carnot (E. Cal vat). — This variety is one of the largest French
seedlings we have seen. The florets are pure white, rather grooved and
curly, and the bloom very full.

Professor Lachnan (E. Calvat.) — An incurved Japanese. Colour
purple amaranth, with a rosy reverse.

There were many other large and attractive flowers, but unfortu¬
nately they were inclined to be somewhat rough and coarse. Le Colosse
Grenoblois was simply gigantic, but its condition precluded the
Committee from dealing with it beyond expressing a wish to see it
again. Deuil des Jules Ferry, a rosy amaranth Japanese, and President
Leon Say, a golden and chestnut bronze flower, were commended, both
being in M. Calvat’s collection with the one previously mentioned.
Celtic, an attractive Anemone, colour rosy chocolate. President W, R.
Smith, a pale blush incurved Japanese ; Niveus, a white American
Japanese ; E. L. Jamieson, a bright crimson Japanese ; Elsie Walker,
a pretty orange bronze Pompon, all in Mr. Owen’s collection, were also
commended. Wm. Kendall, a reflexed Pompon, rosy mauve and white,
was another.

Some fine looking incurved blooms were staged, the best being Mrs.
J. Gardiner, which the Committee thought too closely resembled Mrs.
Coleman. Lord Rosebery, a large purple bloom of good size, was
considered to approach too nearly to Violet Tomlin.

CHRYSANTHEMUM SHOWS.

CHESTER PAXTON SOCIETY.— November 21st and 22nd

This Exhibition, held in the Town Hall on the 2l8t and 22nd inst.,
was one of the best the Society has brought together. The exhibits
from point of numbers and quality exceeded anything that had been
seen in the old city before. This is all the more creditable from the fact
that the Society started in a comparatively small way four years ago at
the Grosvenor Museum, and also when it is remembered that such fine

498

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ November 30, 1893.

shows of fruit and Chrysanthemums are held so near as Liverpool. The
groups of Chrysanthemums arranged for effect were very good, there
beint^ a lightness and graceful blending of colours about them, the want
of which often mars more pretentious groups.

The competition in the cut bloom classes was very keen, there being
some fine blooms of Princess of Wales, Violet Tomlin, Lord Wolseley,
Mrs. Heale, and Golden Empress among the incurved, and Viviand
Morel, B. Molyneux, Lord Brooke, Sunflower, Etoile de Lyon, and Colonel
W. B. Smith among the Japanese.

Apples, which are usually well grown in Cheshire, were exhibited in
grand form. The County Council through its lecturers (four of which
by the way are leading members of the Paxton Society) are doing all
they can to encourage this branch of fruit culture. In the classes for
Pears the effects of the past summer, and the now general complaint of
fruit not keeping well, were very manifest by the absence of some of
the best dessert varieties.

The Society’s silver medal for the best fifty dishes of Apples
brought two fine exhibits, one from Mr. J. Watkins, Pomona Farm,
Hereford, and the other from Mr. Bunyard, Kent, which for size,
quality, and finish would be difficult to beat, and it is very doubtful if a
finer table of Apples has been exhibited anywhere this season than these
made. The former, however, won the medal by a few points in colour.

In the evening a Fruit Conference was held, the ex-Mayor presiding,
when papers was read by Mr. E. S. Baillie, F.L.S., on “Fruit and
Fruit Growing.” Mr, Watkins followed with one on “ Gathering,
Storing, and Marketing Apples and Pears,” after which Mr. Newstead
gave the results of “ Recent Investigation on the Currant Bud Mite.” —
M. F. B., Eaton.

SUTTON COLDFIELD.— November 22nd.

The Sutton Coldfield Gardeners’ Association is an offshoot from the
Birmingham Gardeners’ Association, and was formed because of the
inconve^nience to many in going to Birmingham to the meetings. It is
an admirably worked affair, and many young men engaged in gardening
have joined. As the Chrysanthemum has “caught on” at Sutton and
in the district, an annual Exhibition takes place, and there has been
such a marked improvement in the cultivation of them, that a small but
excellent show was produced on the 22nd inst. in the Town Hall
of Sutton Coldfield.

Four excellent groups were arranged, the first prize going to Mr.
J. G. Pears, gardener to J. D. Rippingille, Esq.; second, Mr. R. Popnell,
gardener to W. H. Tonks, Esq. ; third, Mr. James Padbury, gardener to
R. H. Bunn, Esq. ; fourth, Mr. Albert Jeffs, gardener to H. E. Yates,
Esq. In the class for smaller groups where only one gardener is kept,
Mr. H. Warren, gardener to J. H. Lloyd, Esq., was first.

A few well grown plants in pots were staged, cut back, bushy, and
well cultivated, averaging from 2 to 3 feet through, a marked improve¬
ment on the old tying down system, and the Japanese varieties grown
in this natural style were very effective. Mr. Pea-;e was first in the
classes for these.

The cut blooms were not numerous, but some fine ones were staged,
and here again Mr. Pease was first for twelve Japanese blooms ; second,
Mr. A. Jenkins, gardener to A. W. Wills, Esq., J.P. ; third, Mr. A. T.
Bath, gardener to C. H. Pugh, Esq. In the class for twenty-four blooms,
twelve incurved and twelve Japanese, Mr. Hughes, gardener to W. L.
Hodgkinson, Esq., was first ; second, A. W. Wills, Esq.

Some good Primulas, specimen stove or greenhouse plants and table
plants were staged for prizes, in another class of members, where only
one gardener is employed. Mr. Popnell was first ; Mr. George, gardener
to E. T. Shannon, Beq., second ; and Mr. Clark, third.

Mr. A. W. Wills, who has been an Orchid cultivator for years, sent
a group, not for competition, including some Cypripediums and Den-
drobiums, and Phalsenopsis ; and Mr. Groves, the Hon. Secretary, sent
from his nurseries a large group of Chrysanthemums and cut blooms.

The vegetables were a striking feature of the Exhibition, many of
them being of exceptional quality. Collections in the open class for
members were both numerous and of excellent quality. Mr. T. Garland,
gardener to C. Rhodes, Esq., was first ; Mr. Popnell second ; Mr. T.
Huxley third.

Still another class for six varieties of vegetables, for members who
have no greenhouse, and some excellent exhibits were staged. Mr. J.
Deville, Mancy, Sutton Coldfield, was first ; second, Mr. Joseph
Horton ; third, Mr. George Gibbs. Mr. Deville was first for six Parsnips
of great size and finish ; also first with the finest Leeks in the Exhibition,
and of great weight. Mr. W. Halford, the Royal Hotel, Sutton Cold¬
field, was first for six dishes of Potatoes, good clean tubers of Inter¬
national, Vicar of Laleham, Sutton’s Abundance, Paragon, Mr. Breesee,
and Prizetaker.

Each year prizes are offered for collections of fungi, and this season
two somewhat extensive collections were staged. First, Mr. George
Gibbs ; second, Mr. A. Horton, both working men employed on the rail¬
way. Botany is encouraged by the Committee of the Association, and
Mr. Groves is a thoroughly good leader as well as Secretary, and the
adjacent park and woods of about 1800 acres, rather rich in choice
British plants, afford a good hunting ground for the members. The
Association possesses a small but very useful library of gardening
books, and only members are allowed to exhibit for prizes at the
November Show.

BARFORD.— November 23rd and 24th.

The second annual Chrysanthemum Show, which was held at
Barford Hill, was a decided improvement on that of last year and

there is every reason to believe that the Show which will rapidly increase
in importance has been successfully inaugurated. Financial difficulties
which so many young societies encounter are entirely absent in this
instance, thanks to the liberality of Mr. and Mrs. Smith-Ryland, who
also evince great personal interest in the arrangements, which are
admirably carried out by Mr. J. Gourlay, the energetic Secretary.

Chief interest was centred in the cut bloom classes in which
Mr. H. Dunkin, gardener to the Earl of Warwick, Castle Gardens,
Warwick, secured the premier position for both twelve incurved, and
also for the same number of Japanese in distinct varieties. The
competition in the latter class was particularly close, each exhibitor
having excellent stands of blooms. Mr. Finch, gardener to W. R.
Mann, Esq., Leamington, was second, and Mr. H. Liney, gardener to
W. M. Low, Esq., WilleSbourne House, third. For six incurved distinct,
Mr. Finch was first, Mr. Dunkin, second, and Mr. Liney, third. For a
similar number of Japanese, Mr. Dunkin was again to the front,
followed by Mr. Liney and Mr. Skelcher, gardener to B. K. Little, Esq.,
Newbold Pacey, Warwick, each exhibitor having excellent blooms.
Mr. F. Williams was first for a group of Chrysanthemums. Mr. Finch
occupied a similar position for bouquet of Chrysanthemums, and
Mr. Skelcher for a cross.

Table plants were well shown, the first prize going to Mr. J. Simpson,
gardener to W. M. Smythe, Esq., The Lawn, Warwick, the same
exhibitor securing first honours for three dishes of dessert Apples, and
second for black Grapes, an equal second being also awarded to Mr.
Liney. Mr. Finch was placed first for both black and white Grapes and
culinary Apples (three dishes), while for the same number of Pears Mr.
L. Skelcher occupied the post of honour.

Non-competing exhibits made a fine display. Foremost among them
must be noticed the numerous stands of splendid Japanese flowers staged
by Mr. R. Jones, gardener to C. A. Smith-Ryland, Esq., Barford Hill,
which made an imposing display. Two grand bunches of perfectly
coloured Gros Colman Grapes and two of Alicante were staged by Mr.
J. Ketly, Castle Nursery, Warwick, who also exhibited a fine dish of
Tomatoes, culture of the highest excellence being apparent in each
exhibit. Mr. F. Perkins of Leamington arranged an attractive group in
good style.

ECCLBS, PATRICROFT, PENDLETON, AND DISTRICT.

November 24th and 25th.

The seventh annual Exhibition of the above Society was held in
the Drill Hall, Patricroft, on the above dates, and the exhibits were
remarkably good. The groups of Chrysanthemums were much superior
to anything seen in the neighbourhood this season.

Taking the open section first, the plants and groups were really
excellent, more particularly the first prize group, arranged for effect, by
Mr. J. Horrocks, gardener to J. C. Chorlton, Esq., and which secured, in
addition to the money prize, the silver medal of N.C.S. It was a credit
to Mr. Horrocks. The second and third prizes were taken by Messrs.
R. Lovell and W. Russell, both of Swinton. For six plants of Japanese
and six incurved varieties Mr. E. Pollitt, gardener to J. Wynne, Esq.,
Eccles, was the prizewinner. For three Pompons Mr. Wm. Powell,
Eccles, was placed first. The groups of miscellaneous plants did not
call for particular comment, a pretty arrangement securing Mr. W. Elkin,
gardener to Mrs. T. Agnew, Eccles, the first award. The second went to
Mr. A. Towe, gardener to Mrs. Winterbotham, Pendleton. Mr. R. Lovell
was third. Tables plants and Primulas were very moderate, but Roman
Hyacinths were good, the prizes going to Messrs. J. Wilson, D. Livsey,
J. Horrocks, D. Firkins, and A. Towe in the order named. Bouquets
and sprays were exceptionally good, Mr. J. Mosley, Halliwell, taking
honours with three bouquets and one epergne and three buttonhole
flowers, the remaining one of six sprays of Chrysanthemums going to
Mr. J. Wilson.

In the cut bloom classes the competition was very close indeed. For
twenty-four distinct Japanese and incurved the silver cup was given by
W. T. Lewis, Esq., in addition to a handsome money prize. A very close
contest resulted in the judges awarding the cup to Mr. T. Carling,
gardener to Mrs. Cope, Dove Park, Woolton, for an excellent stand, the
best Japanese being Etoile de Lyon (fine), Boule d’Or, Beauty of Castle-
wood (superb), Lord Brooke. Mrs, Walter Cutting, and Viviand Morel.
Incurved : Violet Tomlin, Empress Eugenie, John Salter, and Lady
Dorothy. Mr. Goodacre, gardener to the Earl of Harrington, Elvaston
Castle, Derby, was second, staging amongst others a grand Lord Alcester,
which was the premier bloom in the Show. Mr. Cragg, gardener to
A. Heine, Esq., Fallowfield, was third. For twenty-four miscellaneous
blooms Mr. Carling was again successful, staging Colonel W. B. Smithy
Beauty of Castlewood, John Salter, Empress, and Anemones, La Dieul
and Annie Lowe in splendid condition. An excellent second stand was
contributed by Mr. R. Pinnington, gardener to Mrs. Banner, Blacklow
House, Roby; Mr. J. Roberts, gardener to H. Lightbown, Esq., Weaste
Hall, being third.

For twelve incurved Mr. Cragg first, Mr. Pinnington second, and
Mr. G. F. Brotherston, gardener to Mrs. Titus Salt, Bingley, third. For
twelve Japanese Mr. R. Pinnington was an easy first, staging bright
coloured and fresh flowers. Mr. Brotherston was second with fine
coloured flowers not fully developed, and Mr. Craggs third. For six
incurved and six Japanese Mr. Cragg, Mr. Wainwright, and Mr.
Pinnington took the prizes.

The amateurs classes were well filled, but space prevents a detailed
report. Mr. Huber was first for six Anemones (two classes), twelve
miscellaneous (three classes), whilst for twelve Japanese, twelve

NoTember 30, 1893. ]i

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

49 9

incurved, and six Japanese and six incurved Messrs. J. Gibson and
P. Eckersley were the successful exhibitors. For three Japanese and
three incurved plants Mr. H. Huber was first. Mr. A. B. Wimpory,
second ; the latter winning with three plants and four Primulas.
Mr. Huber also won prizes in other classes, and secured the silver medal
of the N.C.S. as well as a certificate for the best incurved bloom in this
section. Mr. Wm. Crawshaw scored with six Japanese and six bunches
of Pompones. For six incurved, Mr. Wm. Eckersley, Little Hulton,
took first honours. Mr. Jas. Smethurst, Winton, was first with eighteen
blooms arranged for effect with Asparagus and Maidenhair Fern. Mr.
Huber was second. The silver cup in the amateurs’ section was given
for twelve blooms, incurved and Japanese. This was won by Mr.
Thos. Morton for a very fine stand. Mr. J. Benjamin Wroe, Patricroft,
was second.

Messrs. Clibran & Sons, Altrincham, staged eight dozen cut blooms
which showed to advantage. Other trade exhibitors were Messrs.
Dickson and Robinson, and Dickson, Brown Tait. Miscellaneous
plants very good and choice.

GRASSENDALB AND AIGBURTH.

The third annual Exhibition was held in the Pariah Room, Grassen-
dale, and was again a success. Owing to the great storm which was
raging at the time many gardeners did not bring exhibits, but neverthe¬
less there were sufficient to make a good display. The exhibits
numbered 176, and as regards quality were far in advance of those
staged last year.

The leading feature in the Show was the class for twenty-four cut
blooms, and in which four competed. As remarked in last week’s
issue (page 470), the prize was won for the second year in succession by
Mr. Donald Forbes, gardener to A. Holt, Esq., Crofton, Aigburth, and
is now his property. He also won in three other classes for cut blooms.
Mr. J. Bounds, gardener to A. L. Jones, Esq., Oaklands, Aigburth, won
in this group, staging, amongst others, very fine plants of Viviand Morel.
A feature of the Show was the magnificent specimen plant of Etoile de
Lyon, carrying over fifty choice blooms, and which was exhibited by
Mr. Wm. McKevitt, gardener to H. Hornby, Esq., J.P. Orchids were
splendid in quality, Mr. P. Green, gardener to L. H. Macintyre, Esq.,
Aigburth, being first.

The principal prizewinners in other classes were Mr. J, Bounds, for
Black Alicante Grapes ; Mr. J. Kelly, gardener to R. Singlehurst, Esq.,
fruit ; Mr. J. Grant, gardener to W. S. Gladstone, Esq., cut blooms ;
Mr. Keightley, gardener to Major Larnor, Garston Hall Road, cut
blooms, plants, and fruit ; Mr. T. Ankers, cut blooms, fruit, and plants ;
Mr. J. Agnew, gardener to Mrs. Watts, Grassendale Park, same kind of
exhibits ; Mr. G. Leadbeater, gardener to W. J. Davey, Esq., Holm-
leigh, plants, fruit, and cut blooms ; Mr. J. Harrison, gardener to Mrs.
W. G. Bateson, Elmhurst, Aigburth, out blooms and other exhibits.
— R. P. R.

vT¥

J WOKK.fouthe week.. ^

3^

m

HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

Pruning and Trailing Wall Trees. — During mild, open weather
forward this work at every opportunity, commencing with Pears, Plums,
and Cherries, leaving Apricots, Peaches, and Nectarines, until the
spring, the latter if nailed too early being liable to be brought into
flower sooner than is requisite for the welfare of the crop. All the
summer pruned shoots on the branches of upright and diagonal cordons,
horizontally and fan-trained trees, must now be shortened back to the
plump basal buds, which will be sooner or later the fruit buds. Weak
and crowded spurs may be chinned out, also dead portions of wood,
which can easily be detected as each branch is examined.

The thin disposal of the main branches must not be overlooked.
This is important with most wall trees, but especially in the case of
Plums and Cherries, which admit of young wood being trained in
between the main branches, these growths when two years old pro¬
ducing fruit. A fair selection of such growths may now be nailed in,
the foreright shoots stopped in summer on the main branches being
shortened to form spurs, which also bear fruit. There are great advan¬
tages in this combination. The branches can be periodically renewed
if any decline in vigour or die. Closely stopped Plum and Cherry treees
are liable to attacks of gumming. A freer system of training mitigates
this evil to some extent. In nailing make the branches and shoots
secure with as few shreds as possible, not fastening too tightly, so that
their natural swelling is arrested.

TCorello Cherries. — The finest crops of fruit are obtained from
trees that have all the best placed young wood retained and trained in
to the wall or trellis. They produce fruit on the spur system of train¬
ing, but not nearly so freely as by the annual replenishment of wood,
cutting away the fruit bearing shoots after the crop has been gathered.
The shoots then have sufficient time to ripen before the winter, when
they should be neatly trained, removing the weakest and most crowded.
If insects have attacked the trees during the summer, or any are present
now, a washing with an effective insecticide will act beneficially.

Surface Dressing' Wall Tree Borders. — One of the require¬
ments necessary to insure the continued production of good crops of
fruit from the various kinds of trees cultivated thereon is to encourage
the presence and multiplication of abundance of fibrous roots near the
surface. This can be done by placing good substantial food within their
reach, whereby they will be attracted to it, and absorb it readily. The
result is short-jointed fruitful growths which mature properly. On the
contrary, when the surface soil is never enriched, either with compost or
moisture in the shape of stimulants at proper times, roots descend into
the subsoil, and then their character is entirely the opposite of those
prevailing in the upper layers being long, strong, and sappy, the wood
growth above also partaking of the same characteristics, the inevitable
result being unfruitfulness. This may not have been caused entirely by
inattention to the roots, errors in the management of the branches often
being the first cause of roots going wrong. It will be seen, therefore,
that it is little or no use improving the surface when the roots are out
of reach. In that case they must be lifted. But when not too far
descended much may be done to attract some of the fibrous ones into
better feeding ground.

Applying the Dressing. — This operation is often deferred until the
pruning, regulating, and cleansing of the trees have been completed, and
in cases where these details require extra attention it will be well to
postpone the application, thus avoiding the continual treading on the
ground until those necessary matters have been completed. The first
essential then following is to ascertain the whereabouts of the roots.
Fork over the surface for a distance from the wall of or 3 feet, and
if roots are not found throw the loose soil conveniently out of the way.
Treat the next layer of soil similarly, where roots will almost certainly
be found. If ascertained to be fairly numerous do not disturb either
them or the soil much, but remove that which is loose, so that the fresh
material can be placed in contact with them to the depth of 2 or

3 inches.

Material for Surface Dressing, — Surface dressing being generally
practised in order to recoup the energies of trees and encourage roots to
the surface, the constituents of the compost must as a rule be fairly
rich and substantial. As a main ingredient nothing is better than turfy
loam for all kinds of fruit trees, but whether this should be further
enriched by adding partially decomposed manure depends on the vigour
apparent in the trees. If growing fairly strong omit it. In place of
organic manure the material from a garden smother used fresh and dry
mixed with the soil is beneficial. Bone meal and kainit at the rate of

4 ozs, to the square yard are good for sustaining vigour and rendering
assistance in the following season when growth recommences. An
application may be given now. sprinkling the mixture on the surface
under the trees. Both these manures decomposing slowly, their qualities
will not be appropriated by the trees until next season.

Enriching- the Roots of Trees on Crass. — Old fruit trees grow¬
ing on turf, if they are subject to much close stopping, will need assist¬
ance to enable them to continue healthy and in a bearing condition.
Liquid manure is the best enricher for trees thus situated. In order
that it may reach the lower roots it is a good plan to make holes with a
crowbar at intervals of 18 inches under the spread of the branches, and
to fill them repeatedly with strong liquid manure consisting of drainings
from cowsheds and stables, soap suds and urine mixed. A good soaking
may also be applied to the surface, preferably when the ground is moist.
The holes should afterwards be filled with good loam and manure,
making the mixture firm.

FRUIT FORCING.

Figs. — Earliest Trees in Pots. — To have ripe fruit at the end of
April or early in May the trees, if not started, must be again dressed
with an insecticide, but do not rub off the young fruit. The varieties
most suitable for early forcing are Early Violet, a small dark fruit ;
St. John’s, a greenish yellow, and good Fig ; White Marseilles, and
Brown Turkey. Place the trees in a mild bottom heat, the pots being
stood on pillars of loose brickwork, so that they will not settle with the
fermenting material. The heat about the pots must not exceed 65° until
the trees are fairly in growth, while the top heat may be 50° to 55° at
night, and 65° by day, the trees and house being damped in the morning
of fine days, and again early in the afternoon, but it must be done
sufficiently early to allow of the trees getting fairly dry before night.
Supply water at the roots to keep the soil moist, and always at the same
temperature as the bed.

Earliest Forced Planted-out Trees. — If trees are not grown in pots
for an early supply, and fruit is required ripe in May, the house should
now be closed. Apply tepid water to the roots at frequent intervals to
moisten the soil. Commence with a temperature of 50° at night, 55° by
day, and 65° from sun heat, syringing the trees and every available
surface in the morning and early afternoon, unless the weather be dull
and cold, when the morning syringing only should be practised. Admit
air moderately when the weather is mild, closing the house with sun
heat at 65°. Where there is a house of early-forced trees in pots the
planted -out trees need not be started until the new year.

Succession Houses. — When the foliage has fallen the trees should be
pruned. Shoots that have attained to the limits of the trellis may be
cut back to where successional ones start, in order that they may occupy
their places in the ensuing reason. Cut away entirely all elongated
spurs, reserving, however, as may be desirable a few of those which are
short-jointed and fruitful. The trees after pruning should be loosened
from the trellis, and after thoroughly cleansing the woodwork and glass,
and limewashing the walls, wash the trees with soapy water with a brush,
and afterwards with some insecticide, avoiding pigments that leave a

600

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ Noyembcr 30, 1893,

thick deposit upon the shoots. When this is completed tie the shoots
to the trellis, not too tightly. If the trees have not been lifted lightly
point over the border, removing the loose soil, and apply a top-dressing
about a couple of inches thick of good fibrous loam and manure. The
houses can hardly be too freely ventilated, and only when frost prevails
they should be closed.

Cherry House. — The pruning must now have attention. Full
grown trees regularly stopped during growth will however require very
little pruning. Any shoots that have grown considerably should be cut
back to about an inch from the base of the current year’s growth, and
the worn out or decayed spurs ought to be removed. The terminal
shoots in the case of trees not full sized must not be shortened unless
the extremity of the trellis is reached, and the central shoots of young
trees will require to be cut back as may be necessary to originate those
for filling the space regularly. The fan mode of training is the most
suitable, and is more particularly applicable to the Cherry, as it admits
of replacing any branch that may fall a prey to gumming. The house
should have a thorough cleansing, the trees being washed with soapy
water, about 3 ounces to a gallon, and then dressed with some approved
insecticide, applying it with a brush, but do not injure the buds. The
house must be thoroughly ventilated until the time arrives for starting
the trees, but it is better if the roof lights are off.

Vines. — Houses to Afford Grapes in May. — The Vines intended to
afford ripe Grapes at the time stated must be started without delay.
The outside border should have the needful protection from cold rains'
and snow. If fermenting materials are employed two thirds of leaves
to one of stable litter afford a less violent heat but more lasting than all
manure ; but unless the materials can be replenished from time to time
it is better to dispense with the heat. In that case the outside borders
must be covered with bracken, straw or litter so as to throw off the wet.
We find about 6 inches thickness of dry leaves and a little litter over
them answers remarkably well. If the roots are entirely outside then it
is necessary to use fermenting material. The inside border should be
brought into a moist condition by applying water, and in the case of
weak Vines give tepid liquid manure. Start with a night temperature
of 50° in severe weather, 55° in mild weather, and 65° by day, except
the weather be severe, when 50° will suffice, not exceeding these figures
until the growth commences. Maintain a moist atmosphere by syring¬
ing occasionally, but excessive moisture excites the emission of aerial
roots from the rods. Depress the rods of young Vines to the horizontal
line or below to ensure the regular breaking of the buds.

Houses Started Early in Noveniber. — Whether the Vines are
in pots or are planted in borders the temperature will need to be
inereased to 60° at night in mild weather, 58° in severe weather after
the buds break, and gradually increasing so as to have it 60° by day in
severe weather, and 70° to 75° in mild weather with moderate ventila¬
tion. Tie the Vines in position as soon as growth has well commenced,
and before the shouts are so long as to be damaged in the process.
Sprinkle the paths in the house two or three times a day in clear
weather, but avoiding a very moist or dry atmosphere. Disbudding
should not be practised until the fruit shows in the points of the shoots.

Midseason Houses. — When the Grapes have been cut the Vines
should be pruned. It is decidedly advantageous to do this work directly
the leaves have fallen, the Grapes having been cut with the requisite
amount of wood and placed in bottles of clear rain water. Early pruning
is the best safeguard against bleeding, and the Vines enjoy a longer
season of rest. The Vines will in all probability give sufficiently large
bunches if pruned to one or at most two eyes. If larger bunches are
wanted, or the Vines from weakness do not afford bunches so large as
desired, leave more growth, only select sound, round fully developed
buds on firm well ripened wood. If the roots are in firm soil and
favourable for rooting then the wood will be stout and short-jointed,
and the buds at their base will be round, plump, and well matured.
Let the Vines be dressed, the house thoroughly cleaned, and everything
put into order, so that there need be no hurry to put things straight.
Keep the temperature as cool as possible so as to insure complete rest.

Late Houses. — Every precaution should be taken against damp.
The most prolific cause of Grapes not hanging well is bad construction
of the houses, water hanging in the laps of the glass and blown over
the Grapes . Eemove all leaves as they become decayed, and afford only
sufficient fire heat to expel damp and to exclude frost, keeping at 40° to
45°. Close the house in wet weather, and seek to insure a dry, cool,
and equable temperature.

£

HE BEE-KEEPER.

r-T. , ■ , ■ 1 - 1 ■ i - 1 - 1 -j - 1 - j . . . 1 ■ 1 - 1 - I , 1 . 1

APIARIAN NOTES.

Practical Hints.

All our queens are youthful and the bees quite strong enough
for the stocks to stand any protracted winter we are likely to experi¬
ence. Although the stocks were left ample food for the winter
much late breeding reduces it and necessitates feeding with 3 or
4 lbs. of syrup to each hive. All sugars are not alike in quality, nor
in the proportion of water required. I place some sugar in the
vessel in which it is to be dissolved, then pour cold water on it
sufficient to cover the sugar 2 inches for every 7 lbs, of sugar.

For various and obvious reasons X have discarded all top-feed¬
ing, unless in a few cases of nuclei. The bees will, at times, carry
up syrup when they will not touch it if above. When feeding
from below all uncovering and covering hives and the cooling of
them are avoided. When the hives are warm and cosy keep them
so, and do not cool them by uncovering. The simplest and best
feeder I use is a fountain having a neck or thimble into which a
cork is fitted having a hole through the centre. Into this I put a
saw handle screw, broad end up, which acts as a valve to shut or
open when the lower end touches or leaves the trough. When
filling draw the cork, and when full replace inverted ; insert the neck
into the hole and let it rest on stage or platform, which should
be of such a height as to allow the thimble or neck to be one-
eighth of an inch lower than the upper edge of the trough, which
is three-eighths deep and covered with wide mesh wire cloth to
keep the bees clean and out of the feeder. Wire cloth is much to be
preferred to perforated metals or floats, the latter preventing the
bees getting beneath it, and when refilling being killed.

Hives having ventilating floors require no attention, but already
hives will have absorbed a considerable amount of dampness fatal
to bees during the winter. These damp boards should be removed
and dried, or a dry one substituted. The absence of damp in any
hives during the winter is the reason disease is never present, and
at no time are many dead bees to be seen. My hives arranged,
prepared, and the bees fed as directed, having not more than 1 inch
entrances unless on a chance fine day, when the bees are airing,
they will be widened in the morning and contracted at dusk.
They will require no more attention till the May flowers are
profuse and hives increased in strength. — A Lanarkshire Bee¬
keeper.

BEES IN YORKSHIRE.

At the meeting of the Wakefield Paxton Society held on the
18th inst. Mr. J. Eastwood read a paper on “Bee-keeping,” The
essayist remarked that bee-keeping was a hobby that yielded profit,
pleasure, and instruction. It would be well if every labourer were the
fortunate possessor of a hive. Watching these industrious insects ac¬
cumulating a store for a rainy day would, he thought, suggest thrift to
the owner. After speaking of the important work of bees in hybridisa¬
tion, Mr. Eastwood said he believed bees had increased the yield of his
Strawberry crop one quarter. A neighbour of his had gathered 40 stones
of honey this season, which, at Is. per lb., was worth £28. In Scotland
he had heard that 7 cwt. had been yielded by six hives. A man in West¬
moreland had eighty hives, and realised SOs. from each, or £200. It
was important to catch the honey flow, by shifting hives into the vicinity
of Clover and Bean fields, by which astonishing results were secured.
The method of managing skep hives and bar-frame hives was clearly
explained, and also the securing of swarms and the driving of bees in
order to take the produce without destroying them. Many interesting
and amusing narratives of his experiences in bee-keeping were related
by Mr. Eastwood, who, in conclusion, said that with successful manage¬
ment and fairly good seasons everyone might follow this hobby of Iwe-
keeping with great satisfaction and profit.

•**A11 correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Books {It. P.'). — We have had another inquiry of the same purport
as yours, and to which a reply has been sent by post.

Book on Grafting- (A. Shandbrooli). — Baltet’s work, published at
37, Southampton Street, will afford you the desired information.

Carnations {J. Hughes'). — The flowers to hand are apparently as
good as Mrs. Leopold de Kothschild Carnation in general appearance,
so far as we can remember of the latter variety. Comparison, however,
is necessary to decide definitely on that point. The variety is well worth
preserving.

Kovember 30, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

501

Wblte Vlyland IVIorel Clirysanthemum (JFalier Barnes). —
We have seen similar examples to yours of two white blooms and one
deep pink one on the same plant, each bloom having developed from a
terminal bud.

^ (.T W. 1.). — We have no doubt about 1 and 2 being

identical in variety, and we should not like to say they have not both
been grown in the same bed. No. 3 may have been so grown also from
the same packet of seed, seminal variations of the nature displayed in
the samples not being in the least uncommon. It is impossible to
judge positively on all the roots being grown together because the soil
particles have been washed from two of them, but there is nothing to
indicate their being grown in different soils.

Pear Bergramotte Heitrlcb (^Amateur). — You wish to know
whether this Pear “ is worth growing, and would like to see an illustra¬
tion of it.” It is a delicious Pear, usually ripe at Christmas, and will
keep till May . The following description of the Bergamotte Hertrich
Pear is taken from the “ Fruit Manual ” — “ Fruit rather below medium
size, 2 inches high, and 2^ inches wide; Bergamot-shaped, inclining to
roundish turbinate, even in its outline, except at the stalk, where it is
furrowed. Skin very much covered with ashy grey russet, through
which the grass green ground is visible ; on the side next the sun there
is a brownish tinge, and there is a patch of pale brown russet surround¬
ing the stalk and the eye. Eye with narrow incurved segments set in a
shallow and furrowed basin. Stalk three-quarters of an inch long.

inserted in a narrow cavity. Flesh yellowish, with a greenish tinge
under the skin, melting and juicy, with a rich flavour and fine aroma,
somewhat resembling the Swan’s Egg.” When grown under favourable
circumstances this Pear usually produces a good crop of fruit.

Cucumber and Tomato Boots Infested wltb Eelworms
(^. A, B.). — The small fragments of roots are infested with eelworms,
for the most part dead, through the drying of the roots in transit. The
mite which is associated with eelworm attack in Cucumbers was also
dead. Nevertheless, we found some live eelworms both on the Tomato
and Cucumber roots, and these having left the cysts were feeding on the
roots destitute of nodules, and would have spread upwards until they
killed the plants. Soot water did not destroy the eelworms, the active
creatures seem to enjoy it, though it is far more beneficial to the plants
than many manures that are employed. The only accepted remedy is to
destroy the plants, clear out the old soil, and start again with fresh
plants and soil. The disease has been established on the plants several
weeks or months.

Manure for Tomatoes (^Enquirer). — You ask, “ What is the best
artificial manure for Tomatoes in the open ground ? ” No one can
answer the question without knowing what any particular soil contains
and what it lacks in the way of essential elements for the growth of
Tomatoes. A simple mixture of two parts bonemeal and one part
kainit is generally good, applied early in the spring at the rate of 2 ozs. to
3 ozs. per square yard, according to the state of the soil. A sup¬
plementary dressing of nitrate of soda of less than an ounce to the
square yard when the plants are growing will have a stimulating effect,
but this is most needed after the fruits set, as the over-excitement of
the plants in their early stages favours soft tissues and their vulnerability
to disease.

Names of Fruits. — Notice. — We have pleasure in naming good
typical fruits (when the names are discoverable) for the convenience of
regular subscribers, who are the growers of such fruit, and not col¬
lectors of specimens from non-subscribers. This latter procedure is

wholly irregular, and we trust that none of our readers will allow
themselves to be made the mediums in infringing our rules. Special
attention is directed to the following decision, the object of which is
to discourage the growth of inferior and promote the culture of superior
varieties. In consequence of the large number of worthless Apples and
Pears sent to this office to be named., it has been decided to name only
specimens and varieties of approved merit, and to reject the inferior,
which are not worth sending or growing. The names and addresses of
senders of fruit to be named must in all cases be enclosed with the
specimens, whether letters referring to the fruit are sent by post or
not. The names are not necessarily required for publication, initials
sufficing for that. Only six specimens can be named at once, and any
beyond that number cannot be preserved. They should be sent on the
first indication of change towards ripening. Dessert Pears cannot be
named in a hard green state, (t?. J. 31., Nottingham.). — Winter
Greening. QR. G. L, B.). — 5, Beurr4 Bose. 6, Knight’s Monarch.
9, Minchall Crab. 10, Beauty of Kent. (IF. Seal). — 1, Rymer ; 3.
Scarlet Pearmain ; 4, Beauty of Hants ; 5, Aromatic Russet ; 6, Uvedale’s
St. Germain. (Y. S. N. P.). — 5, Easter Beurre ; 6, Hacon’s Incom¬
parable; 7, Calabasse ; 8, Marie Louise ; 9, Golden Noble. (Y. N. R.).
— We are sorry we cannot name any of your fruit. The Apples are
evidently local, and the Pears are imperfect. (47. E. 3L). — 1, Greenup’s
Pippin ; 3, Peasgood’s Nonesuch ; 4, American Mother ; 5, Golden
Pearmain ; 6, Lord Derby.

Names of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
(IF. E. T.). — The flowers you sent are distinctly florists’ varieties, and
which, as you will see by our conditions, we do not undertake to name.
A grower of a large number of plants might possibly name the varieties
on comparing them with others in his collection. {H. B.). — Dracaena
indivisa. (Y. 31. Jff.). — 1, Ficus repens; 2, Adiantum cuneatum.
(^Amateur). — 1, Aralia Veitchi ; 2, Bertolonia guttata; 3, Asparagus
deflexus.

TRADE CATALOGUE RECEIVED.

Harlan P. Kelsey, Highlands Nursery, Linville, North Carolina,
U.S.A. — North American Ornamental Plants.

OOVENT GARDEN MARKET. — November 29th.

Trade very quiet. FRUIT.

s.

d.

s.

d.

d.

8.

d

Apples, per bushel ,. .,

2

0 to 7

6

Peaches, per doz .

0

0 to

0

0

Cobs .

32

6

35

0

Plums, per half sieve

0

0

0

0

Grapes per lb .

0

6

2

0

St. Michael Pines, each , .

2

0

6

0

Lemons, case .

10

0

15

0

vegetables.

s.

d.

8.

d.

8.

d.

9.

d.

Beans, Kidney, per lb. , ,

0

3

:o 0

4

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2 to

0

0

Beet, Red, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

0

Carrots, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

2

0

3

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . . . .

2

0

3

0

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

6

Celery, bundle .

1

0

1

3

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

4

«

Ooleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Salsafy, bundle .

1

0

1

5

Cucumbers, dozen . . . ,

1

0

3

6

Scorzonera, bundle . . . .

1

6

0

ly

Endive, dozen .

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb .

0

3

0

0

Herbs, bunch . . . . . .

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel .

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch .

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

7

Lettuce, dozen .

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Mushrooms, punnet ..

0

9

1

0

A.VERAGB WHOLESALE PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.

Orchid Blooms in variety. Ohrys.authemum blooms very plentiful this season, hence
the price is very low.

8.

d.

8. d

6.

d.

s.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms .,

3

0

to 5 0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

Oto 12

0

Azalea, dozen sprays . . . .

1

0

1 6

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

9

0

Bouvardias, bunch .. ,,

0

6

1 0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

0

Camellias, dozen blooms . .

1

0

3 0

bunches .

4

6

0

Carnations, 12 blooms

0

6

2 0

Primula (double), dozen

0

1

0

Chrysanthemums, dozen

sprays .

6

bunches .

3

0

6 0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis.

0

6

2 0

Roses (indoor), dozen

0

6

1

6

Eucharis, dozen . . . . . .

4

0

6 0

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

c

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4 0

„ Yellow, dozen .. ..

o

0

4

0

Lilac (French) per bunch

3

6

6 0

Tuberoses. 12 blooms . .

0

4

0

e

Lilium lancifolium, dozen

Violets, Parme (French),

blooms .

1

0

3 0

per bunch .

2

6

3

0

Lilium longiflorum,perdoz.

6

0

9 0

Violets, Czar (French), per

0

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

bunch .

2

2

6

bunches .

4

0

6 0

Violets (English), dozen

0

Marguerites, 12 bunches , .

0

4 0

bunches .

1

6

2

Mignonette, 12 bunches ..

0

4 0

PLANTS

IN POTS.

8.

d.

8. d.

s.

d.

9.

d.

Arbor Vit* (golden) dozen

6

0tol2 0

Perns (small) per hundred

4

0

to 6

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36 0

Ficus elastica, each . . . .

1

0

7

6

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10 6

Foliage plants, var., each. .

2

0

10

0

Chrysanthemums, per doz.

4

0

9 0

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen

12

0

24

0

„ large plants, each

1

0

2 0

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

3

0

4

0

Dracmna terminalis, per

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . .

6

0

12

0

dozen .

18

0

42 0

Mignonette, per doz .

6

0

9

0

Dractena viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24 0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Ericas, per dozen . , . ,

9

0

18 0

Palms, in var., each . , . .

1

0

15

0

Buonvmus, var., dozen ..

6

0

18 0

„ (specimens) .. ..

21

0

63

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen
Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

6

0

24 0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

2

0

0

0

4

0

18 0

Solanums, per dozen. . ..

9

0

12

0

502

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ KoTember 30, 1893.

PROFITABLE LIVE STOCK.

Hopefully do we write about the possible improvement of
stock, because it is so obviously in the interest of farmers that
we are working. It is for them to consider ways and means, to
proceed with caution — yet by all means to proceed to bring
about a reform ; to shake off the heedless, aimless, buying and
breeding of inferior animals ; to give full recognition to the
value of stock upon which some profit is always possible, by
having only such stock upon their hands.

Given then of such high class animals, dairy cows whose
annual milk average is well up to the 700 gallons which we
know to be so entirely possible, there must also be sound
practice in feeding and housing them. The difficulty here is in
the conception of what sound practice really is. We may define
it as a combination of gentle kindly treatment, with wholesome
nutritious food, thorough shelter, and cleanliness. Brutality,
and the hurried driving of cows, has spoiled many a batch of
cheese and butter, as well as checked the flow of milk. It is
a well-known fact that when cows, frantic from attacks of
gadflies, rush about pasture for hours, the milk yield falls off
very much ; it is also known that when cows are driven to the
milking hurriedly, or are knocked about in the cow house, the
quick souring of the milk shows how much it has been injured.
Avoid extremes in feeding ; nothing can be worse than the state
of semi starvation in which cows are so frequently kept during the
dry or non- milking period, which on cheese farms often extends
for three or four months. The fact that cows require more
rather than less nourishment during gestation is apparently
ignored; they are kept out on pasture to clear off the fog which
really affords very little nourishment, in addition to which a
scanty bite of hay is thrown out to them on the pasture. They
must always be hungry ; they fall off woefully in condition ;
can we wonder that the calves are weakly, and enfeebled
from the emaciated dams ? It is ridiculous to talk to the
brutal, foolish owners of such cows about selection, breeding,
or any detail of management. They positively court failure,
and then cry to J upiter, in the guise of their landlord, for aid
in the form of rent reduction !

It is the landlord who is to be pitied, and not the tenant in
sucb a case. To tho^e who have so mismanaged their cows in
pure ignorance and thoughtlessness, and who would do better if
they knew how, we say. Keep up condition in your cows, and
economise food in winter by the provision of thorough shelter.
The poor animals ask you for it plainly enough, by seeking
such shelter as can be had from tree clumps or hedgerows
when they are left out at night. Even that is better than some
hovels known to us. So many of them are too narrow,
more are so badly constructed as to be almost useless. For all
open hovels— i e., having the side-facing a yard open, the correct
width is 18 feet, for close hovels 15 feet is sufficient. We know
a long hovel at a certain midland dairy farm, which has a brick
side and ends, the other side having faggots set on ends. They
do not reach to the eaves, and as there is an open space between
the top of the wall and the eaves on the other side, the hovel is
draughty and cold. This is bad enough, but as the whole of the
land is in pasture there is no straw, the cows lie upon the bare
floor, which would not matter if it were dry and clean, but it is
worn into holes, tilth is suffered to accumulate upon it, so that
at turning out time in the spring the cows are in a disgustingly
filthy condition. It is impossible that the milk can come from
such a building, or animals so dirty, untainted. There is often

trouble of another kind with winter milk, which goes straight
from the cowhouse to the separator, and that is the clogging of
the separator by foi'eign matter in the milk. It is patent to every¬
one that when the milker comes to milk cows with their coats
full of dry filth, into which he butts his head during the milking
the friction causes much “ foreign matter ” to fall into the pail,
to which dirty hands often contribute. The fact is not pleasant
to write about, but there can be no doubt that cleanliness of the
cow it?elf, of its food, and of its sui’roundings, has not a tithe
of the attention it ought to have. We would have the curry
comb and brush in daily use among cows during winter just as
much as for horses, the cowhouse should rival the stable in
keeping, the cowman be as c’ean as his milk pails — all matters
of detail worthy of our best attention.

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

Are the roots ail in clamp or heaps yet ? If not, all large roots may
now be spoiled by a cold snap of very brief duration. Since writing
our last notes we have seen a field of fine Swedes on the borders of
Yorkshire being pulled and trimmed while it was freezing sharply, with
occasional snowstorms. This was not good management, nor was the
apparent waste of the Swede tops this season in the eyes of a southern
farmer. For a month or more the fresh green growth upon them which
come so freely in the moist warm autumn has been in use for the cows,
and though to eke out the tops as long as possible the clearance of roots
was prolonged, it was got through in time to be safe from severe frost.

As active work on the land is brought to a close till spring go care¬
fully over all implements, have necessary repairs done at once, and let
the whole of them be well cleaned and painted before being put away.
Any that are worn out or useless should be got rid of ; there is no more
objectionable sight about a homestead than old implements mouldering
and rusty, unless it be useful implements left about in the open just as
if they were worthless. It is a good rule to have them brought in and
housed at once, and we like them to be painted afresh every year.
Everything about the homestead should now be especially neat, trim,
and in good order. Look well to drains. Suffer no accumulation of
water in yards. See that there is scrupulous cleanliness in stable,
cowhouse, and poultry houses, also that all are free from draughts,
There is nothing better for such buildings than roof louvres with three
or four openings, as then ventilation is assured. Poultry houses especi¬
ally must be snug and warm now if we would have winter eggs. We
have often found harm caused in them by cold cutting winds entering
along the eaves right upon the fowls on the perches. Now is the time
to guage the egg supply and to ascertain if any alteration or improve¬
ment is possible or is required in view of doing better another winter.
The matter is simply one of timely pullet selection in sufficient numbers
to afford a full supply, no light matter for a large household, but just
one of those things which denote good management.

Extraordikaey Weight of Swedes. — Messrs. Webb & Sons inform
us that their stands at the Birmingham and London Cattle Shows include
some extraordinary specimens of Webbs’ Imperial Swede grown by Mr.
W. Maxwell, Sparnel Bank, Galston ; 124 of these roots, which have
been photographed, scaled the enormous weight of 1 ton 2 lbs., or an
average of over 18 lbs. each. Messrs. Webb believe that this return
beats all record, and the weight has been attested by reliable witnesses.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
CAMDEN Square, London.

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

Date.

9 A.M.

In the Day.

Bain.

1893.

November.

1 Barometer

1 at 32°, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday . .

19

29-602

31-8

30-8

N.

42-7

42-7

29-4

49-7

31-4

0 067

Monday . .

20

2H-976

41-9

37-7

N.E.

41-9

43-3

31-2

56-2

30-3

—

Tuesday . .

21

30-444

39-7

37-0

N.E.

41-3

45 0

37-2

70-9

32-2

—

Wednesday

22

30-189

39-1

36-7

S.W.

42-0

45-0

37-4

58-0

35-1

—

Thursday . .

23

30-(i60

30-4

28-3

N.

40-9

38-4

29-0

63-7

27-0

—

Friday

24

30-135

35-0

33-9

S.W.

39-3

45-8

28-5

51-8

25-4

0-010

Saturday . .

25

29-914

45-2

44-0

w.

40-0

50-7

34-9

66-1

33-3

0-382

30046

37-6

35-5

41-2

44-4

32-5

59-5

30-7

0-459

REMARKS.

19th. — Snowing till about 5 A.M., occasional flakes in morning, and also with spots of
rain in afternoon, and a heavy shower between 6 and 7 P.M. Violent squalls of
wind throughout.

20th. — Bright sun at times in morning ; overcast after, with spots of rain.

21st.— Bright sunshine almost all morning ; generally overcast in afternoon.

22nd.— Bright sunshine generally, but overcast at times, and a squall of rain and wind
at 3 P.M. ; brilliant night.

23rd. — Almost cloudless till 1 P.M. ; generally overcast from 2.30 P.M. to 4 P.M., but
clear again after, and brilliant night.

24th. — Generally overcast, but occasional sunshine in afternoon; very slight showers
about 9.30 A M. and 3.30 P M.

25th. — Fine, with frequent sun in morning; overcast afternoon with occasional drizzle ;
steady rain from 7 P.M .

Temperature rather below the average, but by no means exceptionally so.— G. J. STMONS.

December 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

508

WE always expect to hear of a number of complaints about
errors in judging during and at the close of the Chrys¬
anthemum season. Far more complaints have been sent to us this
year than could possibly be published, even if they had possessed
more than local interest, which the majority did not. Moreover,
some of them were evidently of a personal character, as emanations
from exhibitors who were surprised and annoyed by the verdicts
recorded, or from their friends who were doubtless honestly
convinced that the judges were wrong in their decisions. Most of
the complaints were of a general character, no definite or tangible
evidence being forthcoming in support of the opinions expressed,
and in more than one instance the remarks contravening the
justice of the awards were founded on an inspection of the exhibits
on the second day, or twenty- four hours or more after the judging
was completed. Also we have had the verdicts that were recorded
it may be presumed, by experienced men, overturned with the
greatest ease by self-appointed censors, who, however competent
have not yet been chosen by societies to officiate at important
shows. It could not be supposed that the public would be greatly
interested in narratives of what may be termed second-hand
judging under the circumstances indicated, and possibly the nar¬
rators of the alleged delinquencies, in some cases at least, were glad
rather than otherwise that their criticisms were not published.

We do not imply that in all the instances which have been
brought to our notice of alleged errors that the official adjudicators
were of necessity right in every case, and that their censors had
nothing whatever to complain about. That is not the question.
The point is this. In nine out of ten complaints of the verdicts at
shows the matter as it is presented simply amounts to a divergence
of opinion between officially appointed adjudicators and self-con¬
stituted revisers, the latter frequently condemning the former for
not judging by points ; while the complainants fail to send figures
of their own as affording evidence that they have themselves
tested the accuracy of the awards carefully and systematically.
In some cases we know they have not. Conclusions have often
been arrived at in five minutes quite opposite to those of the
adjudicators, who after infinite pains have estimated the value of
every bloom, and recorded the results in their pocketbooks. It is
desirable when allegations are made of the negligence or incapacity
of judges that evidence 'should be submitted to show that protests
are well founded, or at least presented in a manner in which
their value can be tested. They should then receive the attention
of officials, and if transmitted in temperate language, as all protests
should be, are not likely to be ignored by the Press, as accuracy
in the awards at exhibitions is a matter of great public importance.

A case to hand, and a very remarkable one it seems to be,
enables us to show that the Journal of Horticulture will not deny
publicity to a clearly presented instance of alleged errors in appor¬
tioning prizes at shows. If the writer of the following letter has
made no mistake, we have a case of judging the judges, such as is
altogether uncommon, and a verdict of guilty of incapacity
entered against them by the secretary of the society as authorised
by its committee of management. After approving generally of
the remarks of “ Secretary,” on page 469 last week, our correspon¬
dent proceeds as follows : —

Perhaps you will permit me to give an instance of misjudgment,
which you will agree must be hard for certain exhibitors to bear. In a

No. 702.— VoL. XXVII., Third Series.

northern show a silver cup, valued at £20, given by the city, was offered
as a first prize for forty-eight blooms of Japanese Chrysanthemums in at
least thirty-six varieties. After the awards were allotted to the different
stands, two of the competitors handed in a written protest to the
Secretary of the Show against what they considered misjudgment. The
Committee so far entertained the protest as to appoint a competent
expert to " point ” the different stands, and he gave his verdict as below

First prize collection

Second „
Third „
Fourth „

»

n

150 points.

126

159

157

II

II

II

The Secretary afterwards told the “ protesters ” that the Committee
acknowledged the misjudgment, but owing to a clause in the rules —
namely, “ The decision of the Judges is final,” nothing could be done in
the matter. When such cases as these happen is it not a duty to bring
them before the public ? And if societies will have such a decisive rule in
their schedules, ought not they to make sure that the judges appointed
are competent men in whom competitors can repose confidence? I
consider one of the most important matters, as affecting the success of
any society, rests in the ability and integrity of its judges. I would also
suggest that the Judges wherever the contest is close be asked to hand
to the Secretary the number of “ points ” recorded for the different
entries, and not to be satisfied with verdicts arrived at from a bird’s-eye
view of the exhibits.

It will be conceded that the case, as it stands, is a remarkable
one. Our correspondent sends us his name and address, and is
evidently convinced of the accuracy of his statements. Whether
the officials of the Show have a different version of the case to
place before the public remains to be seen. Our pages are open
to any counter statement or explanation, and if neither is forth¬
coming the public will naturally conclude that the above record
is substantially correct. What does it mean ? It means un¬
doubtedly that the Judges are found guilty of incompetence ; but
that is not all, for the Committee in condemning the Judges
condemn themselves, as they are responsible for the appointment
of adjudicators and the justice of their awards. The existence
of the rule, behind which it is said they (the Committee) have
sought shelter, is, in effect, a declaration that the Judges are so
competent that they are empowered to act for the Committee on
a determinate point. They are, in fact, delegates of the Com¬
mittee, entrusted with carrying out its object of doing justice to
all. “The decision of the Judges shall be final,” means that it
is the decision of the Committee recorded by men they have
appointed for that definite purpose. If committees are not
satisfied with the work of their judges, they can there and then
supersede them and appoint others, the verdicts of the former
being declared null and void if this is done, and the prize cards
withdrawn before the public are admitted to a show. If the
awards are “ published,” as they are when disclosed to the public
at the appointed time for admittance, then we think those to
whom the prizes have been awarded can claim them, even if the
judgments are wrong ; but there is no claim on the judges, but
only on the committee, and the members of a committee are
personally and severally responsible to exhibitors for errors com¬
mitted by their delegates. This, we believe, represents both the
law and equity of the whole matter.

In the extraordinary case in question the Committee is said to
have appointed a “ competent expert ” to point the blooms, and
it is implied that his figures were accepted as correct. He,
therefore, was the final judge. But what about the judges first
appointed ? Were they not competent experts ? It seems to be
admitted by the Secretary they were not. Why, then, were they
appointed ? If the figures above published are those which
the Committee accepted as correct when admitting the mis¬
judgment, then indeed is injustice done to two exhibitors, for
we have this strange anomaly : —

A, Third prize with

B, Fourth „ „

C, First „ „

D, Second ,, „

159 points.

157

150

126

II

11

II

This anomaly is only explainable by remembering that the
positions of the competitors were determined by the appointed

No. 2358.— VoL. LXXXIX. Old Series.

501

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 7, 1893.

judges, while the pointing is the work of the revising “ expert ! ”
Was not he the final judge appointed by the Committee ? It
would seem as if the proceedings had ended in an imbroglio as
peculiar as it is rare.

It is undoubtedly a matter of paramount importance that
judges of proved competence should be secured, and so much are
committees of societies whose shows have achieved almost world¬
wide fame alive to the fact that they choose and secure the judges
nearly a year in advance, and already men are booked for several
«how3 to be held next November.

No experienced judges would have the least objection to
handing to the secretary the number of points recorded. Why
should they ? This is in fact often done, but a secretary would
not be likely to disclose the points to exhibitors as soon as the
work was completed — at least not more than once, as a dozen or
score of persons, competent and otherwise, would soon be testing
them and disputing over them in a manner that would not add
to the comfort, or increase the freedom of movement of visitors
to the exhibition. We suspect there are not many judges of
repute who would hasten to accept invitations from committees
who would repudiate their verdict on the authority of an “ expert.”
Should not this supervisor be the sole judge next year ? The
Committee referred to by our correspondent have only themselves
to blame for the not very enviable position they are in through
pronouncing their own appointed judges guilty of incompetence,
yet feeling bound to accept their verdicts, though founded on
acknowledged misjudgment.” The case should be historical.

ST. BRIGID’S ANEMONES.

(Anemone coronaria semi-plena.)

I HAVE been frequently asked by many people as to the origin
-and history of these now highly popular garden flowers, and so I
'have briefly set down all I know about them for the information
•<yf your readers, and all interested in Anemones and their culture.
They came into notice about twenty years ago ; one of the first to
appreciate and cultivate them outside the garden of the lady who
founded the strain, and initiated the best system or method of
culture, being the late Dr. David Moore of the Royal Botanical
•Gardens at Glasnevin, near Dublin. It was at Glasnevin that I
ifirst saw a bed of these splendid seedling flowers blooming pro¬
fusely in October or November some twelve or thirteen years ago.
I had never seen such a sight in my life, and Mr. Thos. Smith of
Newry, who is no novice in the world of flowers, who also saw
them with me, said at once that the germ of a new idea lay in the
fact that these splendid blossoms could be so easily and readily
grown as annuals from carefully selected seeds sown every spring.

On November the 4th, 1881, I think it was, I had the honour
of a visit from the lady whose nom de plume of St. Brigid is now
80 intimately associated with these flowers. It was a dull, foggy,
November day, with roads aslush, and things generally seemed
inimical to “ the flowers that bloom in the spring ; ” but on entering
my room the owner unfolded from a parcel in her hand some of
the brightest and most charming Anemone blooms I ever saw even
in April or May. Chrysanthemum flowers looked absolutely pale
and dull and lifeless beside them, and life seemed brighter and
more enjoyable for their sunny presence in the smoky town. Of
course I made all kinds of inquiries, and found out their history
as far as it could be known ; but I subsequently discovered that
the Editor of the Journal of Horticulture had been long before me
in admiring these flowers, and in stamping them with his imp>ri-
matur. On turning over a file of this paper I find a short article
on “ Anemones and their Culture,” by “ L. L ,” in the number for
April 15th, 1875, and as this is the very first published allusion to
these flowers, and really contains the germ of all that has since
been written or said of them, I may be excused for quoting
lit here. °

“When I look at the lovely beds of semi-double Anemones now in
blossom in my garden, the intensest brilliance side by side with the
softest harmony of colour, I think how much those lovers of spring flowers
miss who do not treat these beautiful blossoms with somewhat more care
than is usual. Besides their beauty of form and exceeding richness and
variety of tint, which I scarcely dare to dwell on lest it should seem
exaggerated, the Anemones possess the great charm of producing blos¬
soms all through the dark days of winter, to which their brightness
forms such a cheering contrast. The bed I now speak of has supplied
me with continuous bouquets from last October up to the present day.

the size of the flowers of course increasing with the advance of spring,
which is the meridian season of their beauty ; but if there is a mid¬
winter open-air bouquet more charming than a flat vase filled with
scarlet Anemones along with blossoms of the large Christmas Rose white
as a snowdrift, I can only say I have never seen it.

“ Observing so many spring flowers praised in your Journal I have often
wished to say a word for the Anemones, but the old saying “ No Irish
need apply,” has hitherto deterred me. However, last week having
shown my flowers to several florists, their hearty exclamation that they
had never before seen such beautiful Anemones, tempts me now to give
my mode of treating them, in the hope that others may have equal
enjoyment in their blossoming.

“ Having saved the seed the preceding May, in March or in April I
select a piece of good ground in a warm situation. I have it well dug
and made fine, and then over the surface I have spread a layer of fresh
cow droppings collected from the pasture ; this is dug in from 5 to
6 inches deep, and then some well-decayed leaf mould is mixed with the
upper 2 inches of the bed ; it is raked fine, and all is ready for sowing.
I then take the seed and mix it with my fingers in some sand that has
a little moisture — just enough to make it adhere to the seeds, and thus
separate them. I next sprinkle the seed thus prepared over the bed,
not too thickly ; and having ready some fine mould, I with the hand
shake enough over the bed to cover the seeds, but not bury them.

Whenever weeds appear they should be pulled up while they are yet
so small that their removal will not disturb the Anemone seedlings,
which are tardy in appearing and slow in their first growth ; but by
August they should be sending up flower-stems, a few only at first, but
increasing every week, until by the end of October the bed is well filled
with blossoms, to continue so all winter until spring adds fresh vigour
to its splendour. I enclose some blossoms pulled to-day, so that they
may speak for themselves. — L. L.”

[We never saw more beautiful specimens of the semi-double
Anemone. — Eds.]

The paragraph on their culture from seed is especially valu¬
able and practical, and it but very rarely happens that so few
words have ever proved so rich in beautiful results to all who have
followed them out to the letter in their gardens. Of course I do
not mean to imply that “St. Brigid” actually inaugurated or
originated the rearing of Anemones from seed. That had been
done by all the early English florists from the days of Gerard and
Parkinson to the days of Hogg and Tyso, but what “ St. Brigid ”
really did was to revive this good old practice, and to start a
renaissance as it were in seedling Anemone culture, in place of
planting the dried and comparatively worthless roots at too late
a season in the year.

Now, some people have asked what are “ St. Brigid’s Ane¬
mones ? ” Well, they are simply carefully selected seedlings from
the common A. coronaria as so largely grown in Brittany and in
Normandy, near Caen and elsewhere. But then the seed was care¬
fully selected for years from the finest and brightest blooms only,
all weedy forms and bad colours being ruthlessly torn up and cast
out on the first opening of their flowers, to prevent their pollen
infecting the finer kinds. By a systematic course of culture from
seed aided by selection of this kind “ St. Brigid ” actually developed
from the so-called French or Crown Anemone a new and vigorous
race, hence the name so appropriately bestowed upon them.

But why does “L. L.” call herself “St. Brigid?” someone is
sure to ask, indeed the question has been asked hundreds of times
already. To make a long story a short one, I may say that the lady
owns an estate in County Kildare (cill = church, da7’e == Oak
tree), where in bygone days St. Brigid, the Patroness Saint of
Ireland in the days of St. Patrick, founded a nunnery and oratory
under a spreading Oak tree, just as the old monks at Fountain's
Abbey sheltered under the spreading Yew trees there existing
while they reared the first walls of their celebrated abbey. It was
in a quaint old garden near the site of St. Brigid’s Church or
Oratory that Mrs. L. Lawrenson first grew the Anemones in the
way described, and from thence she sent the flowers which drew
forth your editorial commendation at the end of her article,
reprinted above. But something else had happened soon after
sending you the letter and the flowers. Your comments had
excited the interest of a wide circle of readers twenty years ago,
just as they do to-day, and so letters by the dozen reached “ L. L.”
through your office and in other ways, asking for roots or for seeds,
or for advice of one sort or another as to the rearing and after
management of these flowers. To avoid as far as possible any
farther personal publicity, the pseudonym of “ St. Brigid ” was
taken merely as an additional safeguard, and it has proved to be a
tolerably efficient one, though no one can really “ hide a light
under a bushel,” and so Mrs. Lawrenson has found that in spite
of her desire for privacy her flowers have forced a sort of floral
fame upon her whether she would or no.

But it is not merely Anemones that have occupied all “ St.
Brigid’s ” cultural care, for she has many very fine seedling Narcissi
and a splendid new series of seedling varieties of Christmas Roses or
Helleborus niger, mostly seedlings from the large pure white

Bfeefitober 7, 18S3 J

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

606

variety which bears her name, crossed with pollen of H. Maximus,
and others of the best kinds. But after all the rich variety, the
vigour of growth, the brilliancy of colouring, and the perpetual
flowering habit of “ St. Brigid’s ” race of Anemones will long serve
to perpetuate her contribution of loving labour to our gardens, and
so to the greater happiness and contentment of our lives, for has
not her fair hand enriched the earth, and made its fruits more fair
than they were before ? — F. W. Burbidge.

[Well do we remember those brilliant and beautiful flowers sent
nearly twenty years ago — flowers that will not fade from the
memory, and glad are we to know that the sender of them still
engages in the work she loves, in “ the quaint old garden ” in
Co. Kildare.]

L^lia anceps Amesiana.

At the meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society, on No¬
vember 30th, T. Statter, Esq., Stand Hall, Manchester, exhibited
a plant of Lselia anceps Amesiana, and for which a first-class
certificate was awarded. It is obviously a very fine form. The
sepals and petals are white, tinted rosy purple at the tips and base.
The lip is medium sized, but of deep purplish crimson, and the
throat is richly veined. Fig. 73 represents this beautiful Orchid.

Cattle YA citrina.

I HAVE understood that in order to grow Cattleya citrina suc¬
cessfully the plant should be so placed that the apices of the
pseudo-bulbs point downwards, and I do not remember to have
seen a plant in any other position until to-day (November 30th),
when I received three plants from a noted firm for Orchids placed
upright in pans with peat fibre and sphagnum, but evidently potted
very recently. This circumstance reminds me of having read in
the Journal a year or more since that (according to the correspon¬
dent’s view) the downward position is unnecessary. I shall feel
much obliged if Orchid growers will kindly give their opinions on
this point. — C.

Orchids for Flowering at Christmas.

{^Concluded from page 487.)

Though less durable, yet for beauty and softness of tints in the
lightly poised flowers, the Calanthes of the vestita group are
admirable for flowering in December and January, their long
scapes adapting them for arranging with other plants, such as
Ferns and small Palms. Calanthes require very liberal treatment
to insure their success, and though it is too late now to correct any
errors of the past season, we may give a hint or two for present
guidance, and to provide for better results another year. If well
grown the pseudo-bulbs should be now plump and mature, the
foliage turning yellow as its work is performed. The supply of
water should be gradually decreased, and the only care needed is to
watch the scapes closely as they expand to avoid any injury to
them, and to give just sufficient water to keep them steadily
advancing ; but it will not be necessary to saturate the soil
frequently unless the leaves are still fresh and active. This must
be followed up while the plants are in flower, then allow them to
become quite dry for a few weeks, repotting in succession early in
January or February, according to convenience. Remove old roots
and place the plants in a compost of equal parts good fibrous loam
and peat, with a little old manure and sand. Then allot them a
light position in a stove, Cucumber house, or any similar house
where a fairly high temperature is maintained with abundance of
moisture, the roots supplies to be increased as the growth advances,
and frequent syringings. The varieties of Calanthe vestita are
numerous, differing in the size and colouring of the flowers, rubro-
oculata having a deep red centre, being an effective form.
C. vestita Turneri and Regnieri are useful as flowering some weeks
later than the ordinary varieties of C. vestita, thus extending into
January and February in natural succession.

That most useful winter-flowering Orchid, Calanthe Yeitchi,
merits a special paragraph, for though it naturally flowers, under
the same treatment as C. vestita, in November, yet with a succession
of plants potted and started at intervals of a week it is possible to
have some in flower over Christmas, or until the later forms of the
C. vestita group are attractive. Those in flower now may be kept
in good condition for some time if they are placed in as cool a
house as is safe, and water is not allowed to settle on their flowers ;

while those showing spikes may be retarded if care is exercised tuy
avoid sudden check, a warm conservatory being a suitable positron.
With liberal culture this Orchid makes wonderfully strong pseudo-
bulbs, and if these are properly matured fine spikes are to be
expected, and when these can be secured 4 feet in length there is
every reason for satisfaction. Few hybrid Orchids have obtained
a popularity approaching Calanthe Yeitchi, which has also without
a doubt been more extensively increased by propagation in the
thirty-seven years of its existence than any Orchid introduced
within that period. It was one of the late Mr. Dominy’s early
successes ; but it is not generally known that this hybridiser also
raised the white variety, which has been since obtained by several
amateurs in recent times, and if memory serves correctly, Mr.
Dominy once told us that it was from the same sowing of seed,
but was sold before it flowered, being supposed to be the same as
the ordinary type. The cross was effected between Calanthe
vestita and Limatodes (now known ai Calanthe) rosea, the flowera

showing an interesting combination of characters, with the rich'
rosy crimson colour of the Limatodes rather improved, and the
vigorous floriferous habit which characterises so many hybrids.

One of the most delightful little Orchids for December '
flowering is that known popularly as “Indian Crocus,” botanically
as Caelogyne praecox, and more familiarly in gardens as Pleione
prsecox. We have a trio of beautiful miniature plants in Pleione
lagenaria which can be had in November, P. prascox for December,,
and P. humilis for January flowering. That first mentioned in this
paragraph will shortly be showing its rosy purple flowers, and fs'
better in a cool position where moisture is not too abundant, either
in a conservatory, warm greenhouse, cool house, or any other
convenient place if the temperature can be prevented falling'
below 45°, giving only sufficient water to keep the flowers fresh,
and sphagnum also with which the surface of the soil should be
covered. As these little plants flower without leaves, a few small
Ferns dotted amongst them look well and also afford a means of
testing if the supply of water is right. Shortly after flo’^ering
they can be repotted, placing them in shallow pans, using a compost
of one-half peat, one-fourth loam, and one-fourth sphagnum, sand,
and old manure. A place on a shelf in a warm house can then be-
found for them, watering them freely when growth is advancing;
vigorously. _______

Angraecum eburneum is rather too large a plant for small col¬
lections, but it has a very telling appearance when bearing its taW

606

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ December 7, 189J.

racemes of flowers, the green sepals and petals being contrasted
with the broad, heart-shaped white lip. It needs a warm house,
and abundance of water during growth.

Amongst Orchids that usually flower in October or November,
but which can frequently be prolonged to a later period, the fol¬
lowing may be named — Dendrobiums bigibbum and superbiens ;
Odontoglossums bictoniense, gloriosum, and Insleayi ; Cattleyas
Bowringiana and luteola ; Lselias autumnalis, Perrini, and pedun-
cularis ; Angraecum Scottianum, Barker), Skinneri, and Pholidota
imbricata. Of those flowering in January and February, but which
may be occasionally had earlier, we can note Dendrobium aureum,
crassinode, Devonianum, and primulinum ; Laelias elegans and
superbiens ; Phalaenopsis Schilleriana, amabilis, and grandiflora ;
Pilumna fragrans ; Maxillaria aromatica ; Odontoglossums constric-
tum, maculatum, pulchellum, and Edwardi ; Oncidium varicosum,
and ornithorhyncum. _

In the third list — those which flower continuously or at different
seasons — we have Cypripedium Edeni ; Odontoglossums grande,
crispum, and Bossi majus ; Oncidiums Forbesi and flexuosum,
usually autumn flowers ; several of the Masdevallias, Vanda suavis,
and numbers of others which cannot be enumerated here . It will
be seen, however, from the foregoing that there need be no lack of
Orchid flowers at Christmas as far as regards the plants that can
be selected to produce them at that period. If through mismanage¬
ment or the unavoidable fogs the plants fail to satisfy us, we
have to take heart, try again, and hope for a better future. In
some seasons we have had an Orchid display that would be con¬
sidered satisfactory at a much more favourable time of the year,
and then we have had the reward for all disappointments. —
Okchidist.

SELF-FERTILISING PEARS.

“According to Prof. Waite of the American Agricultural
Department, the varieties of Pears which are self-fertilising are
Doyenne, Le Conte, Kieffer, Baffum, Flemish Beauty, Seckel, and
Tyson ; the following are not, and must be near some staminate
variety to be fruitful : Bartlett, Anjou, Clapp’s Favourite, Clairgeau,
Sheldon, Mt. Vernon, Lawrence, Howell, Louise Bonne, Souvenir
du Congres, Winter Nelis, Bose, Easter, and Superfin.

“ Not more than three rows of, say, one variety should be planted
together, and they should be separated from the next three rows of
the same variety by at least one row of another variety. Probably it
would be still better to plant two rows of one kind and one row of
another kind alternately.

“ In a majority of cases it was found that the fruit produced by
self-fertilisation was quite different from that produced by cross¬
fertilisation. Occasional specimens of self-fertilised Bartletts were
invariably smoother and slimmer, the cross-fertilised ones rougher
and broader. This difference was so constant as to be striking.

“ A still greater difference was shown in the seeds. Self-fertilised
fruits had but few seeds, and these seldom perfect. The cross-
fertilised specimens showed the regular number of perfect seeds.
Buffum, self-fertilised, almost without exception had imperfect seeds.
The self- fertilised fruits are not the normal ones, and would not pass
as typical specimens.

“ Fruit growing in ordinary mixed orchards, under ordinary
conditions, show by their shape, &c., that they are the result of cross¬
fertilisation. With Apples the results were less decided. Pollen
taken from other trees of the same variety usually acts in the same
way as that taken from the same tree. The different trees all came
from the same seed, and are really one and the same so far as the
character of flowers and pollen is concerned.

“ Many plants procure fertilisation by the aid of the wind. Not
so the Pear. This depends altogether on insects for the transfer of
the pollen. A great many varieties of insects visit Apple and Pear
blossoms — flies, beetles, bees, &c. The honey bee is the most regular
and persistent visitor, and on account of its great activity, the most
important. During rains, strong winds, or in cold weather these
insects do not come out, and flowers may fail to get properly
fertilised.”

The foregoing has been sent to Mr. Abbey from a colonial paper,
and has suggested the following comments from our able correspon¬
dent : —

The broaching of this subject at the present time is not inopportune,
for a large number of fruit trees yet remain to be planted, and on
their selection and arrangement success or failure in a great measure
depends.

Every adviser (and they are about as plentiful as Blackberries in
September) on fruit-growing for profit is emphatic in restricting the
varieties of the several fruits to as few as possible, consistent with a

full supply of produce from the earliest to the latest period of their
respective seasons. To this no objection can be taken, but when
varieties are enumerated which are incapable of self-fertilisation to
the extent of producing full crops of the finest fruit, a few words of
caution against their exclusive planting are imperative, for some
varieties are not inherently fruitful, but owe their fertility to cross¬
fertilisation by the pollen of another or several varieties.

The incapability of self-fertilisation in some varieties of cultivated
plants was first pointed out by the illustrious Darwin in his “ Origin
of Species,” and the soundness of his views and deductions have been
verified in the American orchards, where the trees on the dwarf or
low standard system are planted in blocks — a number of acres of one
variety exclusively. This method is fast becoming the established
practice on this side of the Atlantic, therefore it is necessary to point
out its evils as well as its advantages.

By our system of mixed orchards — a great number of varieties
and pernicious planting, or a row of one variety and another of a
different kind — those incompetent of self-fertilisation would be
fertilised by the pollen of other trees in the row adjoining through
the agency of the wind, bees, or other insects. A variety absolutely
sterile as regards the pollen on its own blossom may be and generally
is rendered fertile by the pollen from another variety, and the result
is heavier and more constant crops of finer fruit. Instead, therefore,
of planting an acre or more of a self- fertilising variety by itself the
non-self-fertilising kinds should be planted with it in alternating rows,
still keeping the early, medium, and late flowering varieties as much
together as possible, for to be of service the blossoming of varieties
for cross-fertilisation must be simultaneous. No record of the time
of blossoming of Pears has, so far as I am aware, been made, but
such would be of great value, not only as showing the difference in
the hardiness of the blossoms of different varieties, but as an aid in
planting, so that those which expand about the same time might be
placed favourably for cross-fertilisation.

The excellent record kept by Mr. W. Paul, and given a few years
ago in the Journal of Horticulture, of the blossoming dates of several
varieties of Apples, might advantageously be imitated in respect of
other — indeed all hardy fruits, for such records are not only interest¬
ing but suggestive of the importance of careful observation, and of
the great benefit calculated to be conferred on succeeding genera¬
tions, who will see in them guidance in their culture.

In the Journal of Horticulture, June Ist, 1893, page 437, I had
the pleasure of making some remarks on Prof. Waite’s observations
on the self-fertilising properties or otherwise of certain fruits and
their varieties, and I now proceed to make further comments on the
above excerpt from an American paper with special reference to
Pears as coming under my personal observation.

Selffertilising Varieties. — Summer Doyenne (Doyenne d’Ete) in¬
variably sets its fruits well, the blossom being bold and perfect
anthers laden with pollen. (Beurre Giffard has grand flowers, but
sets its fruits sometimes indifferently, fertilised with Summer Doyenne
it sets splendidly). Le Comte and Kieffer I had from the late Mr.
T. Laxton, Bedford, and they proved very floriferous, remarkably
hardy in blossom, and set fruit enormously ; but their fruit was as
“ hard as nails,” and about as flavourless as Hawthorn twigs, very
inferior to our second-rate Pears. Buffum is an October fruit, an
American variety, originated in Khode Island, and however good it
may be there it is seldom passable in this country. Flemish Beauty
has a grand blossom. Seckle and Tyson are both American Pears.
The first has a very pretty and hardy blossom, sets its fruit well, and
its fruit is one of the sweetest. It succeeds as a standard in the North
of England, and bears fruit when many others have the blossom
destroyed by frost. The last is seldom good in this country. This
completes Prof. Waite’s list of self-fertilising Pears.

Crawford and Lammas are pictures of beauty when in blossom,
usually “ swarming” with bees, and generally bear heavy crops.
Both are better in quality than many newer varieties. Beacon
certainly must be classed as a self-fertilising variety, its bold stamens
and pollen-laden anthers attest this. Madame Treyve cannot be
beaten for a free-bearing kind, the fruit being large and good.
Fertility fertilises itself and every non-fertilising variety. Some
trees of Passe Colmar that fruited erratically borne constantly when
Fertility was introduced near them. Hessle is good for itself, and
for fertilising Williams’ Bon Chretien, Clapp’s Favourite, and
Jargonelle, as opposite varieties to Hessle as can well be. Bees
appear to delight in the free-bearing varieties, and have great
partiality for Comte de Lamy, so have I for its fruit— the best of all
Pears. Its blossoms are very hardy, and it carried heavy crops in
seasons when no other varieties in the open had any fruit worth
naming. Jules d’Airolles is another self- fertiliser, and it is far better
ill cold districts than Louise Bonne of Jersey. Beurre Bachelier is
highly commended for free-beariug and good quality in cold districts.
Beurre Capiaumont sets its fruit when many sorts fail to crop, but
the quality satisfies few. Bishop’s Thumb must be included in the

December 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

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self- fertilising list, and its fruit is not bad eating. General Todleben
is very free, also Beurre Diel and Beurr4 Langelier. The latter is a
good Pear, but I cannot recommend the General owing to its grittiness,
and Beurre Diel cracks seriously in the open in wet seasons, but is
excellent from a wall. Marie Louise d’Uccle is also a self-fertiliser,
and bears heavy crops of not very juicy fruit. Van Mons Leon le
Clerc has a fine blossom, but tender, yet sets well in warm situations.
It bears large, handsome fruits when trained to a south wall. Jean
de Witte can hardly forbear setting good crops on itself and others
near it, besides it runs Winter Nelis hard for quality. Bergamotte
Esperen seldom fails to set full crops, and the fruit attains better
size, acquires more colour, and is freer from grit when grown against
a south wall. For a specimen of self-fertilisation none excel Passe
Crasanne, it will blossom and set even on the current year’s wood.

Non self-fertilising varieties. — Let us first take Prof. Waite's list.
Bartlett (Williams’ Bon Chretien) a sad but true indictment. (Dr.
Jules Guyot is better as a cropper and in appearance. Its blossom
is hardy and self-fertilising, and being good for market might be
planted along with Williams’ Bon Chretien to mutual advantage, for
the Dr. has not the quality of Williams’ nor anything like it).
Beurre d’Anjou, one of the finest Pears, has a tender blossom, and
Clapp’s Favourite is subject to shrunken pollenless anthers. As to
BeurrfS Clairgeau it is usually well provided with the essential fertili¬
sation organs. Sheldon, a medium sized, high flavoured variety, of
Mt. Vernon I cannot find a reference, and Lawrence, medium size,
lemon yellow, rich flesh, and grown for shipment,are American varieties
of which I know nothing only from report. Howell also is an American
variety, said to be rather large, juicy, brisk and vinous. Louise
Bonne of Jersey certainly has a tender blossom, but I cannot exactly
admit its incapability of self-fertilisation. Souvenir du Congres
blossom is tender, and, like Clapp’s Favourite and Williams’ Bon
Chretien, the fruit is liable to scab fungus. Winter Nelis has a
poor blossom anything but hardy, also Beurr6 Bose, but it bears
grandly near Jean de Witte, and is a very fine Pear, while of
Easter Beurre I cannot say that its blossom is not self-fertilising,
but of its fruit I have nothing good to say except long keeping.
Beurre Superfin, my second favourite Pear, the impeachment is only
too true as regards its requiring aid in setting the fruit.

Jargonelle and Windsor are apt to produce a number of antherless
blossoms, and these usually drop, for the bees are not particularly
fond of the flowers of either variety, yet the perfect blossoms set the
fruit well. Beurrd d’Amanlis, usually fertile, I have quite sterile, its
handsome blossoms being devoid of pollen in the anthers. Seedlings
from it, as Backhouse’s Beurre, are remarkably fertile, and in some
cases the variety bears constantly. These changes are mere vagaries.
Princess certainly is more self-fertilising than Louise Bonne of
Jersey, for it is hardier as a tree, as well as in blossom. Thompson’s
— my third favourite Pear — and Marie Louise have tender blossoms,
and in many cases the pistillate as well as the staminate organs are
defective, and they set the fruit better placed near varieties that
afford pollen abundantly. Beurr4 Hardy is the worst setter I am
acquainted with — plenty of blossom and only a fruit here and there —
qualities making everyone long for more. Jersey Gratioli seems
incapable of self-fertilisation, and Hacon’s Incomparable bears
erratically — sometimes enormously, and then forgets to produce a
decent blossom, much less fruit. Knight’s Monarch, unsurpassed for
musky flavour, holds its fruit better if cross-fertilised and well
thinned and supported at the roots.

Glou Morgeau has less deformed fruits if the blossoms are cross-
fertilised. Beurre Sterckmans appears to have a tender blossom, but
it and Ne Plus Meuris do well in company against a wall. Brown
Beurre sometimes sets its fruit well, and at others has very defective
blossoms and only a sprinkling of fruit. Duchesse d'Angoul^me is
not nearly so free bearing as Pitmaston Duchess — a very much over¬
praised Pear, for it is coarse in looks and in quality — not as good as
Duchesse d'Angouleme for the shops. These are a few varieties that
occur to my mind as requiring aid in fertilising, either by planting
varieties near them for bees to transfer the pollen, or by using a
camel’s hair brush — an interesting and useful occupation.

Some of the best for affording pollen are Belle Julie, Colmar
d’Ete, Doyenne du Comice, Durondeau, Eyewood, Emile d'Heyst,
Fondante d’Automne, Josephine de Malines, Triomphe de Vienne,
besides the others specially referred to. — Q. Abbey.

THOUGHTS ON SHRUBS.

The management of shrubs as a part of a gardener’s duty
does not receive so much attention as it ought to do. Generally
the first serious thought a young gardener devotes to shrubs or
shrubberies is when he is brought face to face with some problem
on their treatment, and he discovers that he has to rely on an
uninstructed judgment for a solution. But young gardeners are

not solely to blame for being largely ignorant of this department
of ornamental gardening, as on too many estates shrubs are
not properly cultivated. Apart from this, however, one does
not find young men very keen of taking advantage of any
opportunities that occur for benefiting themselves by a little insight.
On the surface, the cultivation of fruit and of flowers forms a Uaore
alluring occupation. One sees results in these instances, within a
short space of time, but with shrubs and trees there always inter¬
venes a period of waiting. While such is the case it must not be
too hastily conceived that no pleasure is to be extracted from
shrub culture. There is indeed a great amount of gratification,
and personally I am quite as pleased to see these plants do
well as others in departments more closely connected with the
garden.

In open situations and with soil of fairly good quality shrub
cultivation presents no difficulties, but when one is called upon to
form living screens, with sand and gravel as a rooting medium, or,
even worse, to plant underneath overshadowing trees in soil inter¬
laced with roots, we experience some difficulty. In neither case, so
far as my experience goes, is it possible to achieve success without
incurring expense, or without more than usual labour. Few plants
take kindly to gravel, and even fewer thrive on the fragments left
by century-old trees ; nor do they appreciate the continued shade.

I have seen much money wasted in trying to get shrubs to grow
under such circumstances without first preparing the ground and
by indiscriminately planting anything that came to hand without
taking into consideration adaptability as to position. The best shrub
for growing under trees is the Holly, the common sort being excel¬
lent ; but both Ilex Hodginsi and I. maderiensis nigra are good, and
much bolder in effect than common seedlings. Yews and Portugal
Laurels do fairly well, and where the shade is only slight Rhodo¬
dendrons succeed, as also do common Laurels. Small plants of
any of these are of no use, but strong, vigorous, well rooted
specimens, which in those estates where shrubs are looked after are
always to be had, ought alone to be employed.

The plants there ought to be protected against dryness, and the
roots of the trees among which they are planted. I go to work in
this way in order to circumvent the intruders. First of all a hole
large enough to hold the ball of the plant with an extra allowance
of 6 inches all round for new soil is made. The plant is then put
in, the new soil, in our case generally decaying compost, is added,
and made firm, and then at a distance of 9 inches or so from the
outer limit of the hole a circle is cut with the spade. This keeps
the roots of the trees in check until the newly planted shrub
becomes established. Another important matter is to apply water
even at this season, that is to say if there appears any dryness
about the site. During the following spring and summer,
water will in all probability be required by the plants at short
intervals. The care taken in this respect during the first year is
amply compensated for, as apart from the plants being kept in good
health there will be no further need to go over the work another
year, as I have seen happen more than once in similar circum¬
stances. An occasional dressing of manure, or of soil put on about
this time of year, will keep them in vigorous health.

The method I have adopted with success where the soil is very
gravelly consists in selecting strong plants with fibrous roots, in
making the hole for the same double the size necessary to hold the
ball, and in filling in with good soil or compost. Dryness during
the spring and summer must not be allowed, and repeated
mulchings of short grass, or of manure if it can be spared, are
most helpful. The importance of the latter is very great, and
shrubs or trees ought not to be neglected in that respect. If a
shrub or a tree is growing in impoverished soil neither will be
ornamental, and the ordinary grass would be more pleasing to the
eye. Along with other Conifers, I had an Abies Nordmanni to
plant, the latter securing perhaps the most gravelly site. As a
matter, of course, it did not grow very well ; but a barrowful of cow
manure applied one autumn made a difference for the better. More
the next year, worked a still further improvement, and^ at present
this specimen looks very flourishing indeed. I have during the past
week used about three tons of animal excreta all applied to
shrubs. Upon the roots of Rhododenrons growing in poor soil
these surfacings of good manure act like magic. Old worn out
stumps become quite energetic, produce strong growths, and in due
course flower as well as those which have much better chances.
Variegated plants such as Hollies, Yews, Retinosporas and others,
when surface dressed with manure or soil of rich quality have
better colouring than when left to grow without any manurial
aid.

A common error in planting is in placing the roots too deep.
Two years ago I recommended to a gentleman some hedging plants
the same as I had myself. In the spring he complained they were
looking badly, and “ Would I see what I thought was wrong i

608

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ December 7, 1893.

Eyery one had been planted with its stem 6 inches below the
surface, and the plants died. Only last autumn I had to overhaul
a recently planted shrubbery in which the plants were making no
progress, and in this case also deep planting was the fault. A
plant with the main roots showing on the surface, if staked and
watered, will hardly die, and it is certain to make progress when
once it is established. A plant with a buried stem, on the other
hand, will never do well. — B.

DEEPLY PLANTED CELERY.

There are no doubt advantages as well as disadvantages attending
the use of deep trenches for the growth of Celery, but it is
doubtful if the value of deep planting was ever more fully exem¬
plified than in the present season, when shortness of water was a
more common complaint than ever before experienced. Shallow
rtrenches this year, with a restricted supply of water, must have
.seriously affected this valuable winter crop, and especially in soils of
a light sandy or gravelly nature. I have never before practised
iauch deep planting as this year, one reason in particular being that
the depth of soil available did not allow of it being adopted, but
:had I resorted to the usual depth of trench our Celery crop must
Jiave been a very indifferent one. As it is I think it will bear very
favourable comparison with that obtained in seasons of greater
■ rainfall.

Beyond a light watering given at planting time no water could
be spared for the Celery. Under ordinary circumstances the plants
'.would have been flagging continuously for want of water, but
<deep trenches with a high bank of soil on each side afforded a
good means of protection from direct sunshine on the surface soil
and roots. As much moist and decayed manure was worked into the
trenches in the early spring, and these being of a sufficient width
for planting two rows of Celery were better able to sustain mois¬
ture than a narrower one could do. After the plants had advanced
well into growth the foliage completely filled the width of each
trench, and this acted as good as a non-conductor to the drying
winds and sunshine in a marked manner.

In a wet summer possibly the chances of obtaining good Celery
from such deep planting would not be so favourable ; but if the
ground is well drained even then I do not see any objection to the
system of deep planting, because with ample foliage much of the
rain is transmitted to the sides from off the surface of the over¬
hanging leaves, and the roots are thus not in receipt of the whole
of the rainfall. In double rows and deep trenches there is a
natural gain of length of stem, and this more easily blanched than
"is the case when the opposite course is followed. Earthing or
moulding-up is a simple matter in the one case, when in the other,
as less wide spaces are allowed between the trenches, it is difficult
to keep the soil up ; especially is this so with sandy textured
garden soil. There would seem to be a very general prejudice
against the planting of double rows of plants in one trench, for it
is observable that in the majority of gardens the single row is the
one most commonly adopted. The idea is that it is more difficult
to earth-up the plants in the autumn, or if not more difficult there
is great risk of doing injury through the soil getting into the hearts
in the course of “ banking ” up. I held this view of the matter,
and abstained from adopting the double row system for several
years ; but I find there is no more difficulty in the one case than
in the other, and certainly it economises space very considerably,
and quite as good material might be grown in double as in single
lines. One advantage is gained in wide trenches by the greater
height of the sides brought about by the breadth of soil removed.
This makes the trenches appear deeper than is actually the case.
■Ours are two spades in depth, and the loose “ crumbs ” serve to
jjover the manure for planting in.— W. S., Rood Ashton.

THE FRUIT KEEPING QUESTION.

Not only as to “ the premature decay of Apples,” but also as
to the keeping of Pears, is the question raised by Mr. Iggulden
(page 437), a most interesting one, but it has been all through this
.autumn season a very anxious one. W^hen a gardener’s supply is
•reduced, he is called upon for a reason for the reduction, and the
reason I have given is precisely the one suggested by Mr. Iggulden
and supported by Mr. Cheal, and partly supported, but widened,
by m^ neighbour, Mr. A. H. Pearson of Chilwell (page 487), “ that
the rains which came after the long spell of dry weather filled to
overflowing the sap vessels of the fruit ; these being dried up and
narrowed by the dry weather were not able to bear the strain,
and that the after season was not long enough to elaborate and
^^lUte that rush of sap ; hence, immatureness and premature

In some such form as that I have endeavoured to explain when
asked, “ How do you account for this excessive decaying of fruit ? ”
I cannot say that our late Apples are keeping very badly. We gave
them as long a time as we could before gathering, seeing that they
had so much to do after the rains came, and now that they are
stored away in our airy fruit chamber, they are keeping, what
I may say, fairly well. Caldwells or Rymers, with Normanton
Wonders, are two of our most reliable long keeping Apples, and
we lay by a good store of these. The early Apples, as Early Julyan,
Duchess of Oldenburg, and even Keswicks and Potts’ Seedling,
we only retain sufficient for present consumption, putting the
others into the market ; and the “ Summerings,” with their strong,
penetrative smell, we never keep by us at all.

Pears, the early ones, have been the greatest trial. Gathered
one day they seemed to be decayed the next, and it was most
difficult to keep up a daily supply. Doyenne d’Ete, Jargonelle, Clapp’s
Favourite (a very useful Pear this), and Williams’ Bon Chretien we
were obliged to gather in sections, a basketful or so at a time.
By so doing we prolonged our season very materially. Beurre
d'Amanlis kept better, though, having trees in different positions,
and gathering them at various times, a few at a time, may account
for our longer time of consumption. Pitmaston Duchess fruited
well, but I cannot join “ Northerner,” who writes so glowingly of it
on page 495 in his estimate ; for though we get plenty of fruit, and
on the walls of good size, too, we do not get that high table quality
which makes people ask for it. Indeed, when I say that we stewed
the bulk of ours it will be understood how it stands in our esti¬
mation, those at least which did not decay, for this was one this
season which you could almost stand and see decay.

Some of the Pears which are invariably good with me have this
season been conspicuously uncertain. One favourite, Fondante de
Charneu, was little better than a good young Turnip ; usually it
is asked for more than any other in its season. To set against that
Vicar of Winkfield is this year singularly good. We are using it
now with much acceptance. Louise Bonne of Jersey were very
good in quality, but smaller than usual, and kept the best of all
save one, and that is a December Pear, not in much cultivation,
Epine du Mas. It is a prolific bearer, of good quality, the fruit
keeps well, and comes in at a most acceptable time. We have just
finished them, and are now using Winter Nelis, always a welcome
fruit in the dining-room. Josephine de Malines and Easter
Beurre are keeping fairly well, and will be in very soon. Nec Plus
Meuris and Glou Mor9eau did not fruit very well this year, but
are keeping well, though in each of these varieties their season is
about a month earlier than usual, and the Pear consumption will
therefore be limited by that amount of time. Beurre Sterckmans
did so badly in ripening out that I headed them down, and worked
other varieties upon them.

I must go back a little and say that I have only words of un¬
stinted praise for such Pears as Doyenne Boussoch, Doyenne du
Comice, Marie Louise d’Uccle, Marechal de Cour, and Emile
d’Heyst, as well as Fondante d’Automne, but as for Beurre de
Oapiaumont, Beurre Clairgeau, Beurre Bose, Beurre Van Mons, and
Fertility, the less said about them the better. The last-mentioned
Pear is unquestionably a heavy and constant bearer, much
more so than the old Hessle, but its table quality is very low. That
is as I have proved it ; it may do differently elsewhere. That
fact, by the way, is a truth which a long experience has given me,
that a fruit, or vegetable indifferent in one place may be quite the
opposite in another, and therefore I find it wise not to dogmatically
condemn anything in the fruit and vegetable line, but just
chronicle my own personal experience. Fertility has had, however,
one feature this year, and that is to die off, as to its leaves, in
ruddy glory, as red almost as that of a Virginian Creeper. These
fruit experiences are very interesting reading to me, and so I
venture to send this small contribution. — N. H. P., Notts.

THE CRYSTAL PALACE COMPANY’S SEPTEMBER

FRUIT SHOW.

The present appears to me to be an opportune time to express a hope
that the Crystal Palace Company may next year resume the holding of
an exhibition of choice and other fruit in conjunction with the National
Dahlia Show the first week in September. This unfortunately has
been discontinued the last two years, owing, I suppose, to the fact that
a fruit Show embodying all the fruit classed included in the “Palace
schedule ” was to be held at Earl’s Court, London, in 1892, and a
series of little fruit shows held in the same place during the past summer,
and which latter shows appear, judging from recent correspondence in
the Journal, not to have given the same satisfaction to prizewinners
that resulted from the management of the International Fruit Show
held in the same place last year.

I think it would be a great pity — not to say a pomological calamity —
that there should exist any cause or causes to prevent the Crystal Palace

Oaoember 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

509

Oompany holding its great Fruit Show the 6rit week in September, as in
former years (excepting 1892 and 1893). As an exhibitor for several
years past in all the principal daises at the Show in question, as well
as at many leading shows in the provinces, I am in a position
to say that the Crystal Palace September Fruit Show has been looked
upon, and justly so, as the great show ot the season — in fact, the National
Fruit Show of the country.

The Palace, as far as my experience goes, is quite unique as a place
for holding horticultural exhibitions, and the details of the exhibitions
held there have always been admirably arranged ; and last, though by
no means least, the prize money has always been forthcoming soon after
it had been won. I am sure that in thus writing I am only expressing
the sentiments of the numerous fruit growers who used to annually com¬
pete in the fruit classes at the Crystal Palace Show, and who looked
forward with much pleasure to meeting one another in friendly contest
early in September every year. Permit me to express a hope that the
■Crystal Palace Company may give us — its old and regular exhibitors — an
opportunity of doing so again in 1894, as the Shows in question gave a
great impetus to the movement of high-class and profitable fruit culture.
— H. W. W.

THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY AND

SOUTH KENSINGTON.

You state in an article on page 492 in your last issue that “in
<3on8equence of a leakage from the Council of the R.H.S.,” proposals as
to the removal of the meetings of the Society to the Imperial Institute
are known to be under consideration. I made careful inquiries at a
late meeting of the Council whether any member had communicated
with the horticultural Press, directly or indirectly, on this subject, and
was assured that no member had done so. I think this contradiction
should be published, because at the time you name the proposal had not
even been submitted to the Council, and it is therefore a somewhat
severe, and I believe unjust, imputation on a member or members of
that body. — Henry J. Pearson.

[We publish the above correction with very great pleasure, but
at the same time we think Mr. Pearson will have no difficulty in
admitting that his inquiries at a late meeting of the Council were not
made in consequence of anything that appeared in the Jourrial of
Horticulture. We did not say the proposals were “ known " to be under
consideration, but that there was a “ rumour ” of the nature indicated.
This was quite true. It also appears to be equally true that the
rumour was not groundless, as proposals were admittedly made by the
authorities of the Imperial Institute for the removal of the headquarters
of the Royal Horticultural Society to South Kensington. “ Rumour ”
is quite liable to be at fault relative to the origin of a leakage, but that
there was an “ escape ” in this case from somewhere appears self-evident,
■or there could have been no occasion for any gentleman to make
•“ careful inquiries ” on the subject at a Council meeting held prior to
ithe publication of our remarks last week. We unhesitatingly accept
Mr. Pearson’s assurance that no disclosures whatever were made by any
members of the Council, and we include in this assurance all attendant
officials.]

A RETROSPECT.

Time has been given me to look back over the last fourteen years or
so, during which my heart has been wrapped up in matters horticultural.
Although the love I have borne and bear still for everything connected
with a garden has never been a means of supplying my daily wants, but
has, on the other hand, impoverished me, I cannot even now say that
I regret it.

During this period I have seen horticulture advance by giant strides,
and gardeners become in their best representatives a body of scientific
well read men. The pages of VaQ Journal of Horticulture bear testimony
to this.

I have also seen of late years the culture of fruit brought to the
front, and the old rough and ready ways of planting any variety
the nurseryman sent abolished. Dr. Hogg’s “ Fruit Manual ” and
Mr. Wright’s “Prize Essay” have been of inestimable worth to our
young planters.

Many changes have happened of late years ; we seem to have lost
an unusual number of first-class gardeners, and when Mr. Laxton
(whose helpful letters to me were a source of great comfort at a trying
time) went over to the majority I felt a blow I shall never forget.

How much knowledge and pleasure I have gained by the perusal of
“our Journal” I know not. This I know, that there was always
something fresh to learn, always something to add to the pleasure of
reading. I owe very many thanks to the contributors to “our Journal,”
many of whom have been most courteous and kind to me. I heartily
return my thanks to one and all. If I might single one out I should say
that any contribution with “ D., Deal," underscribed has been a lasting
pleasure to me.

And now, starting as I am on a long journey from which I shall not
return, I desire to thank our kind Editor and each contributor for the

knowledge, pleasure, and profit I have ever received from them. —
H. S. Easty, Ashdcne, Hill Lane, Southampton,

[It is with profound regret, in which our readers will share, that the
painful malady from which Mr. Easty has long suffered has at last been
pronounced mortal. Mr. Easty is a gentleman by birth, and has devoted
his means to acquiring information by travels abroad ai:d experiments
at home, until those means are, we believe, exhausted, and we fear he
has difficulty in obtaining simple home comforts. Under these circum¬
stances the calm trustfulness of his pathetic letter cannot but evoke
admiration, and impart a suggestive lesson on a subject of a momentous
character.]

Aberdeen Roses.

With a view to keep things right, may we ask you to kindly insert
the following remarks, by way of correcting a mistake in “ D., Deal's,"
very interesting article on “ The Rose in 1893,” which appeared in your
issue of the 30th ult. (page 494) ? We observe he credits Messrs. Hark-
ness & Sons with carrying off every first prize for “ seventy-two’s ” in
the kingdom.

We only staged in two “ seventy-two’s ” during last season in
England, and had the satisfaction of winning them both. The first
was at Tibshelf (Derbyshire), on July 25th, and we understand that
this was the best and keenest contested “ seventy-two ” of the season,
there being six exhibits staged, Messrs. Harkness coming in second.
The second was at Elland (Yorkshire) on August 15th, where we also
won the first prize.

We do not wish by any means to detract from the Messrs. HarknesJ
splendid record, but we take this opportunity of pointing out that we
met the above-mentioned firm eighteen times in England during the
season, commencing July 20th, with the following result — viz., Messrs.
Harkness & Sons two first prizes. Cocker & Sons fifteen first prizes and
one equal. — James Cocker & Sons, Aberdeen .

The National Rose Society and the Future of Exhibiting.

I TAKE advantage of some remarks made by “ D., Deal," in his
article on “ The Rose in 1893,” page 494 of the Joxirnal of Horticulture
last week, to fay a few words as to the future of the Society as they
occur to me, both in regard to its membership and the advantages
which are now offered, and those which, I think, should be offered to
new rosarians. “ D., Deal" — than whom there are few more experi¬
enced, whether as men of the world or as “past masters” in Rose
matters — says, in regard to the annual recruiting of rosarians for the
Rose shows of the future, “ one asks, with some degree of misgiving,
where are the successors of the past” [why not present ?] “giants to
come from ? ” This question may be one fraught with consequences of
the first magnitude to rosarians, and is of vital importance to the
N.R.S., therefore it is one which, having been put forth by a leading
official at what is apparently a propitious moment, might be discussed
with advantage at the annual meeting of the N.R.S., which coincides
with the date of the next issue of the Journal.

It is of vital importance to the Society that its membership should be
materially increased, as there are many members who, when it first
started in December, 1876, were the mainstay of its exhibitions, and
who now either from age or disinclination have dropped out of the fray.
Future exhibit'ons and the Society itself must sooner or later depend
for support from those who are now becoming interested in Rose
growing, and it is with the object of sounding a note of warning to the
N.R.S. executive that I write this letter.

I have for some years been a persistent advocate for the encourage¬
ment of new members and small growers amongst rosarians, and unless
the Society offers more inducement in the future than it now does to
“young” rosarians, it will find it a matter of difficulty to keep up its
roll ; death and desertion will soon outnumber the yearly recruiting, and
the number inscribed on the roll-call will then be found a diminishing
quantity.

I do not write this letter as a pessimist, but in the present day a
society or a business must either advance or retrograde, you cannot stand
still and succeed ; and I say that when I find there are forty-eight local
secretaries of the N.R.S., and through that body of supposed active
workers only thirty-four recruits (not counting those I myself brought
in this year) were obtained in 1893, the Society is in a perilous state,
especially if its schedules are to be maintained at a satisfactory level. I
have worked fairly hard and not unsuccessfully in getting in new
members ; but I confe-s that the question often asked me, “ What do I
gain or obtain by becoming a member of your Society?” frequently finds
a reply difficult, and at times I have been puzzled to find a suitable one,
but the question being a proper one there should be a satisfactory reply
ready to hand. I therefore appeal to those now responsible for the
Society’s working to offer next year advantages to new members — do
away with useless classes in the prize schedules, such for instance as the
one for residents within an eight-mile radius (which is practically a
monopoly to a very small coterie), and in the place of those eliminated

610

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 7, 18>I.

classes substitute several new ones for rosarians who have joined the
Society within say three years, or those who have never won a prize at
its exhibitions. By adopting this plan a nursery will soon be formed,
and thus the babes of the present may become the giants of the future,
and probably not unworthy to be compared with their predecessors. —
Charles J. Grahame, Croydon.

MANUEINa AND TRANSPLANTING ROSEB.

Autumn and winter are the best times in the whole year for applying
a liberal dressing of solid manure to the soil devoted to the growth of
the queen of garden flowers. Where good manure is plentiful and is
largely used for the purpose the difficulties of Rose growing are reduced
to a minimum. No mere sprinkling of this necessary fare will suffice
to keep such gross feeders in health and vigour. A coating of from
3 to 6 inches in thickness should be spread evenly over the whole surface
of the bed, and as the work proceeds be packed closely around the stems
of standards or the stools of bushes. The manure then answers the
two-fold purpose of protecting the roots from severe frosts and of supply¬
ing them with abundant nutriment, as the rains and snow convey its
most powerful constituents to the soil. This layer of manure should
remain upon the surface of the soil till the Roses are pruned in the spring,
when it is necessary to fork the beds over to a sufficient depth to admit
of covering the manure. Deep digging around Rose bushes should at
all times be avoided, as it is most inimical to their well being, by driving
the roots deeper into the soil, when the aim of the cultivator should be
to keep them near the surface.

On light hungry soils 1 believe cow manure to be unsurpassed for
Roses, for it is not only extremely rich in easily assimilated plant food,
but being also close in texture helps to make the soil more retentive of
moisture, an object not easily accomplished when ordinary farmyard
manure containing a good percentage of straw is employed unless very
much decayed, in which condition its manurial properties are consider¬
ably lessened. On the other hand, when dealing with a heavy soil fresh
horse manure containing a good amount of strawy matter is of great
utility in keeping the soil open so that the action of the weather may
pulverise it.

I find it an excellent plan to lift and transplant bush Roses every
three or four years ; this is especially the case with those on their own
roots, as by continually throwing up suckers in various directions the
centre of the stool is often left bare. In addition to the advantage
accruing from this point of view, the bushes are undoubtedly kept
healthy and vigorous, without producing such exceptionally strong shoots
as undisturbed bushes do when pruned closely to secure large blooms.
The reason why periodically lifted Roses give such satisfactory result is,
I doubt not, in consequence of the number of fibry roots produced under
this system of management, which also gives opportunities of frequently
trenching the soil and incorporating manure with it throughout its
entire depth. Ample food being thus within easy reach of the roots
they show no inclination to wander away in search of it, making in
their course long fibreless lengths, which all cultivators dislike to see.

November is perhaps the best time to take in hand the work of
lifting or planting the hardier kinds of Roses, and those enthusiastic
rosarians whose Roses are the most important feature in their gardens,
will doubtless have managed to carry out the work ; but gardeners who
have extensive charges in each department to attend to must perforce
fit in this kind of work whenever opportunities arise and the weather is
favourable. November is a busy month with most of us, as with the
leaves from numerous trees falling fast (which if not quickly collected
are swept by the wind in all directions, only to give additional labour)
and other alterations also in progress, planting must necessarily be
delayed ; however, by choosing an open spell of weather when the ground
is fairly dry, we have hitherto been able to perform this kind of work
with the best results, and contemplate undertaking it again at various
times during the next three months.

Our plan of procedure is to take up the Roses, carefully cut away
any old fibreless parts or stools from which the younger portions have
extended, and at the same time making a clean cut at the ends of all
other roots, so that they are in readiness for replanting. They are then
laid upon the ground and covered with mats while the beds are being
prepared for their reception. This preparation consists in double¬
digging, at the same time giving a heavy dressing of manure, which is
well incorporated with the soil as the work proceeds, and a little of the
subsoil is mixed with the upper strata. When the digging is completed
the Roses are at once planted, spreading the roots evenly in all direc¬
tions, and keeping them near the surface. Any plants which have
become leggy ought to be planted obliquely. Light soils should be
trod firmly ; but when dealing with heavy ones the fork or spade should
take the place of the foot in pressing down the soil. A couple of
inches of rough manure must in all instances be placed upon the
surface to complete the work. — A Lover of Roses.

AUTUMN AND WINTER FLOWERS.

Not often is a finer display seen than I found on a recent visit to
Norman Court, the residence of W. Baring, Esq., as provided by the
able gardener, Mr. J. Hughes. Apart from Chrysanthemums, which
were admirably represented. Salvia splendens was very striking. The
plants were grown from cuttings rooted in March and planted out
in^ the open, afterwards taken up and established in 10-inch pots, the
soil used being loam and leaf mould, no sand. Well-grown Zonal

Pelargoniums intermixed with Mignonette and Heliotropes formed an
effective combination, and Primulas were very fine indeed.

The stage on the south side of the Rose house was filled with Miss
Jolliffe Carnations (the improved strain), the blooms being not in hun¬
dreds but thousands, and well worth a long journey to see. Mr. Hughes
may be justly proud of his success in the culture of these plants, and it
seems a pity it should not be convenient to place them before the Royal
Horticultural Society’s Committee, where I have no doubt they would
receive the recognition they deserve. There are 200 plants, in 7-inch
and 9-inch pots. The cuttings were rooted about the middle of February
in slight bottom heat, the plants being eventually potted and grown in
a cold frame. The final potting was done in July, the compost then
used being good maiden loam, charred soil, leaf mould, with a little
bonemeal and sand added. Some of the best plants had twelve spikes,
carrying from forty to fifty blooms. The house is kept cool with plenty
of air, and the plants, which are sturdy in growth, are kept free from
insects. On the north stage of the same house was a collection of
dwarf German Scabious. These plants were kept growing through the
summer, but all flower spikes as they appeared were pinched off until a
few weeks ago. At the present time they are in full bloom, affording a
pleasing variety of colour, in 32-size pots, some of the plants carrying
from fifty to sixty trusses of flowers.

Other winter-flowering plants are not forgotten. Cyclamens, Marie
Louise Violets, and Cinerarias are grown in pits, as are Bouvardias,
these being planted out, and will no doubt prove of great service. I hope
these few stray notes may show what can be done with perseverance.
Such good work merits appreciation, and Mr. Hughes is to be congratu¬
lated on what he has accomplished so well. — W. Palmer, F.R.H.S.

Events of the Week. — Comparatively few events of horticul¬
tural interest will take place in the metropolis during the ensuing week.
The Royal Botanic Society will hold a meeting in the Gardens, Regent’s
Park, on Saturday, December 9th, and the Committees of the Royal
Horticultural Society will meet at the Drill Hall, James Street, S.W.,
on Tuesday, the 12th inst.

- The Weather in London. — Various changes in the weather

have taken place during the past week. On Sunday morning a severe
frost prevailed, 12° being registered in some suburban districts.
Towards evening on that day it became milder, and a little rain fell
during the night. Monday was mild and dull, Tuesday being colder and
foggy in the morning. Wednesday opened dull, but at the time of
going to press it is clearing.

- Weather in the North.— The weather has been change¬
able for the last eight days, with occasional high winds and drizzling
showers. On the morning of the 30th ult. the ground was white with
snow, and heavy falls were reported from the northern counties.
December opened with frost, 7° in the morning of the 1st, and 14° on
Saturday morning. By evening it rained heavily, and till Tuesday
morning the weather has been fresh and generally fine for the season. —
B. D., S. Perthshire.

- Earl’s Court Exhibition. — My attention having been

drawn to the remarks of one or two correspondents (pages 444 and 493)
who have exhibited at Earl’s Court, and not received their prize money,
I regret to say that the delay has occurred through the illness of the
Financial Director, who has been, and is now suffering from influenza.
As soon as he is able to attend to business the prizewinners will receive
their awards.— Harry Turner, The Royal Nurseries, Slough.

- Royal Horticultural Society.— The last meeting of the

Royal Horticultural Society for the year 1893 will take place in the
Drill Hall, James Street, Victoria Street, Westminster, on Tuesday,
December 12th. The Fruit, Floral, and Orchid Committees will
assemble at twelve o’clock, and new Fellows will be elected at three
o’clock.

- Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Institution. — Mr. G. J.

Ingram, Secretary, 50, Parliament Street, London, S.W., writes : — I
have been requested to acknowledge the following sums received in aid
of the funds of the Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Institution : Mr. Bailey
Wadds of Birdsall, York, £2 11s. ; and the Reigate and District Chrys¬
anthemum Society, £31 lOs.

December 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

611

- Changes in the London Pabks. — After many years’

service in the London Parks Mr. Gibson retires through failing health
from the position as Superintendent of Victoria Park, and his friends
hope he will enjoy his pension for many years. Mr. J. W. Moorman
(Dulwich Park) succeeds Mr. Gibson at Victoria Park, Mr. Bailey
goes from Southwark to Dulwich, Mr. Curie from Waterlow to South¬
wark, Mr. Pallett from Myatt’s Fields to Waterlow, while the propagator
at Victoria Park goes as Superintendent to Myatt’s Fields. Mr. Moor¬
man’s advancement, from the smallest garden (Myatt’s Fields) to the
largest park under the London County Council, within a period of
five years, affords high testimony to his energy and ability, and the
other superintendents have won their promotion by the excellence of
their work. The London parks were never better cared for by the
authorities than at the present time.

- National Amateub Gabdenebs’ Association. — At the

monthly meeting of the members of this Association, held at the
Memorial Hall, Farringdon Street, E.C., on Tuesday evening last.
Dr. A. B. Griffiths gave a lecture on artificial manures. Mr. T. W.
Sanders presided, and there was a good attendance. The lecturer dealt
at length with the physiology of plants, and described the manner in
which the roots absorbed the necessary nourishment from the soil.
Formulae of special manures for various plants and soils were also
-detailed and apparently appreciated by the audience. An interesting
discussion followed, during which numerous questions were put to the
lecturer. In addition to the customary vote of thanks, it was
unanimously resolved to award Dr. Griffiths a bronze medal for his able
Tecture.

- Death of Mb. H. G. Qtjilteb, — Many of our older readers

will learn with regret of the death of Mr, H. G. Quilter, which took
place on November 23rd, at Felixstowe. Mr. Quilter was seventy years
of age, and was at one time a very prominent figure in horticultural
matters. Some years ago he organised a most successful exhibition
under the auspices of the Royal Horticultural Society at the Aston
Lower Grounds, Birmingham.

- White Eabwigs. — I regret that I missed the query made by

■“ Lanarkshire Bee-keeper ” at page 458, and may now endorse Mr.
Hiam’s explanation. After the final ecdysis, or cast of skin, which
brings the earwig to its perfect condition, the insect is white or pale in
colour for a time, as is also the familiar cockroach of our kitchens. It
has been found by experiment that a cockroach, after this moult, is
white for several days, even if exposed to the light, and an earwig may
take as long to acquire its usual colour, only it is probable that it
remains usually in hiding, from prudential motives, till it has both
■darkened and hardened. If any friend has undeniable testimonials in
favour of the earwig I should be glad to see them ; at present, it must
be owned, the insect has anything but a creditable character. One
thing that much surprised myself and other observers of earwigs this
summer was the plump and well-to-do condition of most of the
Individuals ; evidently, somehow or other, the long drought had not
hurt them. — J. R. S. Clifpobd.

— “A Lanabkshibe Bee-keepeb ” writes ; — “ While I am obliged
to Mr. J. Hiam (page 491) for his explanation of the above, I must
say, without any contradictory spirit, I am not satisfied with it. We
ought, however, at all times to give due deference to others’ opinions
and observations, as well as never to put a misconstruction upon what
is said. It was gardeners’ friends, and not ‘ bee-keepers’,’ I said on
page 458. I have watched over and over again the carnivorous habits
•of earwigs amongst the larvae and pupae of ‘ gardeners’ enemies,’ just as
many of the spiders are."

- CuBious Spelling of Names.— I fancy " S. H.” (49C) has

not had much experience of the duties appertaining to the post of
Secretary to an autumn Exhibition, or he would not suggest the ex¬
amination of the names by this official to correct those mis-spelt. I
often pity the Secretary when perhaps half a dozen exhibitors are
asking him questions as to the position of their exhibits, inquiries for
class cards, and making appeals for admission tickets. Where from
1000 to 2000 cut blooms are staged I imagine those officials would
not thank “ S. H.” for the suggestion of examining the names. I am
aware that the manner in which some names are mangled in spelling is
deplorable, but I fear the remedy lies only in the hands of exhibitors
themselves. It is not always that catalogues agree either in the proper
spelling of the names. Where this occurs of doctors differing, who
shaU decide 1 — E . M

- Mb. H. Cannell. — We learn from a Kentish paper that Mr.

Henry Cannell, head of the firm of Messrs. Cannell & Sons, seedsmen
and horticulturists, of Swanley and Eynsford, has been awarded by
the Council of the Academy (Industrial) of Science and Arts, Brussels,
with the diploma of that Institution, and the free membership of the
same, the honour having been conferred for useful invention, commerce,
and for the common good.

- We have much pleasure in mentioning that we have received

from M. Martinet of Paris a copy of his new weekly paper " Le Petit
Jardin Illustr^.’’ It is published at the price of 10 centimes (one penny),
and consists of sixteen octavo pages. It is worth remarking that this
is the first weekly publication in France upon, the subject of Horticulture,
and if there is anything like the same demand for it that there is in
England for papers of this character, a prosperous career awaits it.

- A New Wateb Lily. — Prom Nymphaa dentata, fertilised

by the pollen of N. Sturtevanti, Mr. William Tricker has secured a
new hybrid night-flowering Water Lily, which is distinct and produces
flowers of great beauty. In the specimen of Nymphsaa Trickeri which
I have seen, says Mr. J, N. Gerard in the “ Garden and Forest,” the
leaves are 18 inches in diameter, finely toothed and a glistening
emerald green above. The under surface is dark brown and boldly
ribbed with numerous prominent veins. The flowers are semi-doublC;
with three rows of petals, and in form quite identical with N. Sturte¬
vanti, having even the tendency to plication of the edges of the petals.
It differs, however, not only in colouring of the leaves, as noted above,
but also in the distinct colouring of the flowers, which may be described
either as a light rose pink, shading irregularly to white, or as white,
irregularly suffused with pink, the general effect being a light pink
flower with white markings. Under artificial light it is the most
brilliant of all Lilies. The white markings are then not distinguish¬
able, and it appears as a most charming glow of light rose pink of
very pure tone.

- Mb. Gebabd also observes : — There are no nobler Nymphseas

than N. rubra, N. Devoniensis and N. Sturtevanti, and N. Trickeri, the
lightest in colour of the quartette, is apparently an important
addition to the series. The night- blooming Nymphaeas are precious
flowers, which should meet with wider appreciation. Though they
open in the evening they remain open during the early morning, and
in a later stage still longer. Their flowers are charming under artificial
light, and exquisite effects in decoration are possible by their aid. They
will be probably always somewhat rare and uncommon, for, while the
plants offer no difficulties in cultivation, to be well grown they require
considerable space, and this will prevent their being grown for com?
mercial purposes. It will be readily seen that an arrangement of
Nymphmas in a suitable receptacle is one which is delightful in itself,
and sure to excite attention and give pleasure. Such arrangements
are frequent with ordinary day-flowering Nymphseas, but these,
unfortunately, close in the evening, so that plants like N. dentata,
N. rubra and its hybrids, which are open when they can be generally
most enjoyed, are especially valuable.

- Pbices of Gbapes. — Such dolorous reports occasionally

appear with respect to the miserable returns that are obtained for
Grapes — returns that seem utterly absurd assuming that the fruit be at
all good — that I venture, as some antidote to these statements, to
publish what is written in a letter lying before me, received a few days
since from one who is both a first-class grower and one in a large way,
for his annual output is measured by tons. Perhaps the fact that a
grower can be depended upon to keep up a supply of first-class samples
in great bulk over some nine months of the year helps to the
securing of better prices. The writer says, and he specially refers to
what has been written in the Journal of Horticulture, “I still keep
cutting Grapes. To-morrow the price will be 3d. more, the lowest
being 2s. per lb. It may be of interest to you to know that on Monday

I sent seven baskets of Alicante to - , really the worst I had ; the

return. Is, 7d. to Is. lOd. per lb,, very satisfactory, and am asked to

send more. One shop alone at - has taken seventeen baskets this

week, and other good quantities have gone to other towns. In three
weeks we have turned over £100 — not bad for our little place.” Here
is no complaining, but perfect satisfaction. When we read such dis¬
tressing complaints as to prices it would be much more instructive
could we see the samples. In the case quoted very little is done through
markets, but chiefly with the shopkeepers direct. This fact serves to show
that it is the middleman who gets the growers’ profits. Why do not
growers form a syndicate, and be their own salesmen, retail as well as
wholesale ? — D.

612

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 7, 189J»

- We learn that Mr. John Waterer, son of the late Mr. John

Waterer, and brother of the late Mr. Michael and Mr. Fred Waterer,
died at Bagshot, on the 21st ult., aged 67 years.

- The Phylloxera in Sicily. — It is reported that serious

damage is being caused by the Phylloxera in Sicily. In the provinces
of Syracuse and Catania also the loss, owing to this cause, is most
alarming.

- Diospyros Kaki. — Readers may be interested to know that a

plant of the Japanese Persimmon, Diospyros Kaki, has this year borne
five fine fruits in the succulent house at Kew. The plant is stated to
be a grafted one and is 6 feet high.

— — Mr. W. Gleeson, The Warren House Gardens, Stanmore,
desires us to announce he has been awarded a valuable set of silver
fish carvers, offered by Mr. Colchester, of Ipswich, for the best exhibit
at the Watford Chrysanthemum Show.

- All classes in Ireland heard with surprise and sorrow of the

death of the Duke of Leinster at Carton, May nooth, on December Ist.
His Grace, who has been thus untimely cut off by typhoid fever at the
age of forty-two, was President of the Royal Horticultural Society of
Ireland, a post held by his father, the late Duke. A lover of Nature,
taking a keen interest in all pertaining to gardening and forestry, few
coaid surpass him in knowledge of timber and ornamental trees.

— — Shading Plants.— Is not the too protracted use of summer
shading upon greenhouses injurious to plants? Plants in my own
garden have not been satisfactory when covered with obscured glass,
while those grown under clear glass were healthy and fruitful. The
Spider-web Sedum previously mentioned by me has only in two years
one rosette under rough glass, the web being scarcely visible, while
that under clear glass has filled the space with prettily webbed
rosettes.— T.

- The Total Rainfall at Abbot’s Leigh, Hayward’s

Heath, Sussex, for the past month was 2 08 inches, being 1-59 inch
below the average. The heaviest fall was 0 43 inch on the 14th. Rain
fell on seventeen days. The maximum temperature was 61° on the 3rd,
the minimum 25° on the 1st; mean maximum 46‘06°, mean minimum
35-13° ; mean temperature 40 59°, nearly 2° below the average. Although
we did not feel the full force of the storm of the 18th the barometer felt
it ; the reading on that morning was 28-75. It was very unsteady from
that date till the morning of the 26th, when it made a remarkable rise
from 2918 to 30 03 on the following morning, where it remained
stationary till the close of the month. December opened wet and stormy,
but cleared out in the afternoon to frost, with a keen N.W. wind. — R. I.

- The Weather Last Month.— Mr. W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall

Gardens, Stamford, writes : “ November was showery and dull, but we
had very little fog. There were nine bright days. The first snow of the
season fell on 6th. We had a gale and a fall of snow on night of 18th.
Wind was in a northerly direction nineteen days. Barometer : highest
30-42 inches at 1 p.m. on 2 Ist, lowest 29 inches at 10 45 p.m. on 17ih.
Total rainfall 193 inches, which fell on twenty days. The greatest daily
fall came as snow on 18th, viz., 0 40 inches. The total is 0 73 inches
below the average for the month. Temperature : highest in shade 60° on
3rd, lowest 21° on 5th; lowest on grass 14° on 5th. Mean daily
maximum 47 46°. Mean daily minimum 34-43°. Mean temperature
of the month 40-85°. The garden spring ran 6 gallons per minute
00 30th..’'

i - Summary of Meteorological Observations at Hodsock

Priory, Worksop, Notts, November. — Mean temperature of the
month, 41-1°. Maximum on the 3rd, 57 8° ; minimum on the 5th, 24-3°.
Maximum in the sun on the 6th, 93 7° ; minimum on the grass on the 5th,
17-5°. Mean temperature of air at 9 A M., 40-5° ; mean temperature of
soil 1 foot deep, 42 8°. Number of nights below 32°, in shade fourteen ;
on grass, nineteen. Total duration of sunshine in the month, thirty-seven
hours, or 15 per cent, of possible duration ; we had nine sunless days.
Total rainfall, 2-06 inches ; rain fell on twenty-three days. Average
velocity of wind, 11-1 miles per hour; velocity exceeded 400 miles on
four days, fell short of 100 miles on four days. Approximate averages
for November : — Mean temperature, 42 3° ; sunshine, fifty hours ; rain¬
fall, 2-03 inches. A rather cold and dull month, with a large proportion
of northerly winds, and about average rainfall, though with more than
the average number of rainy days. No damage was done here by the
gale on the 18th, but the snow which fell drifted a good deal, and
several roads were blocked next day,— J. Mallender.

- Wanderings in Wicklow — A Correction. — In the article-

on this subject (page 487) referring to Shelton Abbey, it is inadvertently
stated that Mr. Wilmett is “ not an energetic man.” The sentence
should read, “ not an emergency man.”

- Death op Mr. Howard. — We announce with regret the

death of Mr. Howard, on November 27th, at Southgate. He was well
known as a grower for Covent Garden Market, and at the time of his
death was in his 59th year. Mr. Howard was an enthusiastic supporter
of the Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund and other charitable institutions-

- Australian Flowers. — Apropos of the note rt a " Wild

Flower Carnival,” published on page 491, we are informed that a
bouquet of Australian wild flowers is now on its way to England frozen,
in a solid block of ice, and intended as a present for the Queen.

- A CORRESPONDENT writes “ The death of the Earl op

Warwick has taken from us an English nobleman whose love of horti¬
culture was as strongly marked as his courtly gentleness and artistic
tastes. The late Earl took the deepest interest in every phase of
gardening, and cherished by constant watchfulness many of the rarer
trees and shrubs at Warwick Castle ; and his knowledge of their
nomenclature was as thorough as his admiration tor their beauty. Even
in the confines ot the sick room the presence of some favourite flower
seemed to keep keenly alive his interest in gardening. His Lordship’s
decease is deeply regretted by all who knew him, and by none more so
than those who were constantly associated with him. His Lordship’s
charm of manner and kind consideration to all around won the respect
and love of equal and dependent alike.”

- The Weather in Hertfordshire. — Mr. E. Wallis, The

Gardens, Hamel’s Park, Buntingford, Herts, writes : — The weather
during the past month has on the whole been very favourable to the
horticulturist, planting and outdoor operations of all kinds having had
very few drawbacks. The s light frosts have tended to check the very
late growth, and harden vegetation against the coming winter. Like
each of the preceding months of the present year November has shown
some points quite opposite to its usual character. There has been an
entire absence of fogs, and we shall long remember the terrific gale of
the 18th and 19th, which much resembled the gale of January 18th,
1881. Rain has fallen on thirteen days during past month. Maximum
in any twenty-four hours was 0-63 on the 25th ; minimum, 0-02 on the.
24th. Total during the past month 2-31 against 1-75 of 1892.”

- - Herbaceous Grafting. — Professor L. H. Baily of CornelL

has been grafting the Tomato on Potato plants, with the result that
the upper portion bore Tomatoes and the lower portion bore Potatoes..
This seems natural, and yet it is in direct opposition to experiments^
which have been reported as having been made in other countries^
where the result was said to be an intermixture of the two, and the facts
have been brought forward as illustrating what is known as graft
hybridism. The result of Professor Baily’s experiments, says “ Meehan’s
Monthly,” does not show that the other experiments have been mis-
reported or misconstrued, but it certainly does go to show the value of
continually repeating experiments which are said to produce such
unique results. Professor Baily found that Peppers could be grafteci
on Tomatoes, and that Tomatoes could be grafted on Peppers, and that
these, including Egg plants, would grow when grafted on the “Alkekengi.”
It should be remembered, however, that all these plants are of the same
natural order, and very closely related — all belonging to Solanaceae, and
there is no more surprise at this result than the grafting of the Pear on
the Quince or the White Thorn. In the use of material for this
herbaceous grafting Professor Baily notes that the wood must not ha
too young, but rather on the approach to maturity.

A. CHARMING FLOWER BASKET.

One of the most beautiful ornaments that could be devised for
the flower garden is a wicker basket, as shown in the illustration
(fig. 74), and which is standing in the garden of Alfred de Rothschild,
Esq., Halton, Tring. The basket is of huge dimensions, being about
14 feet across, upwards of 5 feet in height, the cross handle of course
rising much higher than this. When filled with flowers it is very
effective, and possesses the additional merit of being most unique. The
basket is lined with turves, grass side outwards, and in this is placed a
casing, which carries the weight of the soil. During the past summer
the centre was bright with Lilium longiflorum andL. tigrinumsplendens

December 7, 1893 ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

618

grand Hydrangeas, Petunias, and Tropfeolums, the latter being allowed
to hang in festoons over the sides. Every plant was carefully tended,
and the arrangement of the flowers reflected credit on Mr. Sanders,
the head gardener.

DEATH OF ME. EPHRAIM SYMS DODWELL.

Many of our readers will share in the regret we feel in recording the
death of Mr. E, S. Dodwell, which took place somewhat suddenly at his

Born on the 23th November, 1819, at Long Crendon, Bucks, Mr.
Dodwell had bat recently completed his seventy-fourth year, and only
this summer Mr. and Mrs. Dodwell celebrated their golden wedding, and
were presented by their floricultural friends with a silver tea and coffee
service at the last Show of the Oxford Carnation and Picotee Union,
held, as customary, in Mr. Dodwell’s garden, of which Society he from
its commencement had acted both as Secretary and Treasurer. For
many years he carried on business as a cigar merchant in St. Mary Axe,
London, but retired from the same in 1880. In the following year he
tonk up his rtsidence in Oxford, where he is best known in connection

Fig. 74.— a flower basket AT HALTON, TRING.

residence, S;anley Road, Oxford, on Thursday, the 30th nit. We
understand that the deceased gentleman was in his usual state of health
up to the previous day, but for some some years past he had suffered
from a chronic bronchial affection, which necessitated his exercising
continuous care with regard to exposure. Mr. Dodwell was seen in
Oxford on the day before he was taken ill, but appeared to be more
excited in his manner than customary, and on his return home it was
thought advisable to call in his medical attendant, who, however, did
not anticipate any immediate danger to arise from his symptoms.
On the following (Thursday) morning the most painful surprise was
occasioned the members of his family and friends when at eleven
o’clock he passed away.

with the Society he established there on ceasing to be Secretary of the
Southern Section of the National Carnation and Picotee Society,

His interest in the cultivation of the Carnation and Picotee gained
for him a widely extended fame, and he will be remembered amongst
amateur and professional florists as the raiser of a large number
of standard varieties with which most of our readers are probably
familiar. He was a contributor to the gardening Press on matters
that concerned his views or practice in the pet object of his latter
life, and was the author of a handbook on the cultivation of his
favourite flowers.

Mr. Dodwell leaves a widow, four sons, and four daughters. Two
of his sons, we understar d, hold appointments in H^ng Kong.

614

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 7, 1893.

New Cheysanthemums.

FOLLOWiNa the practice I have adopted for several years for the
benefit of readers of the Journal of Horticulture, I will describe some
new varieties as I have seen them, in the hope that the selection may be
of service to persons who have not the opportunity of seeing them at
shows or elsewhere. The advantage that an exhibitor gains in having
all new varieties of merit is well known, and no matter how well grown
a certain variety may be, it cannot compete with others of superior
character. An example or two will suflSce to show what I mean. A
few years since Elaine was regarded as the best white in the Japanese
section, but with the advent of Avalanche, Elaine could no longer hold
its position, and gradually dropped out of premier place. Now we have
another that will oust this favourite. I allude to Mdlle. Ther^se Key,
which is undoubtedly the finest white Chrysanthemum in existence,
new or old. The advantage, then, of being in possession of new sorts of
approved form is obvious to all who make exhibiting a feature-
Varieties under different forms of cultivation vary somewhat in
character, not only in the formation of their florets, but in colour also.
For this reason the descriptions I append to each may not in all cases
agree with catalogue definitions. I base my opinions on the flowers
as seen.

Incueved Vaeieties.

These appear to be fewer in number than usual, not a single sport
having come under my notice during a lengthened tour and of visits to
the most important shows and growers. This is to be regretted, as in
spite of the number of varieties belonging to this section exhibitors at
times find it difficult to stage thirty-six distinct varieties at one time.
This section affords so little scope for variety of form that it is only in
the matter of colour where we can obtain variety.

Vice-President Jules Jiarigney. — This was raised by M. D61aux,
presumably from seed, and sent out first under the name of President
Carnot, on trial. In colour it is chestnut suffused with buff. Catalogue
description gives it as being rich crimson on the inside of the florets,
but this is misleading, as it is not that part of the floret we wish to see.
Unfortunately the hlooms do not possess much build, but where variety
is required this sort may prove useful.

Mdlle, Martignao. — This is presumably another French-raised
variety, possessing a much-needed colour, rich yellow. Unfortunately
though the blooms are not very deep, the florets are short, but incurve
neatly.

Miss Drover. — A seedling, possibly of American origin, introduced
by the Messrs. Drover. An excellent bloom of it was staged by them at
Sheffield, and also at Portsmouth. The florets are pointed and pearly
white, a good middle row bloom. Unfortunately, though, in growth the
plant is exceptionally tall.

Broolileigh Gem. — Sent out last year, is a deep lilac sport from
Jeanne d’Arc, having all the characteristics of its parent in habit and
form. Many good blooms of it have been seen this year.

Lord Rosebery. — An English seedling raised by Mr. R. Owen. In
colour and form it much resembles Violet Tomlin, purple violet in
colour, but is larger than that member of the Princess of Wales
family. Figured in the Journal of Horticulture for November 23rd,
page 471.

Robert Petjield — Presumably a sport obtained a year or two since,
but not yet sent out. The stock is in the hands of Mr. R . Owen, who it is
hoped will let the public have the benefit of this sterling novelty early
next year. Blooms this season have freely borne out the high opinion I
formed of it last year. In colour it is deep lilac with faint purple
stripes. The florets are pointed and incurve thoroughly. As a middle
row bloom Robert Petfield will be in great request.

Lucy Kendall.-— K sport from Violet Tomlin, sent out last season by
Mr. Owen, has quite come up to expectation, giving exhibitors quite a
new colour. The centre of the florets are deep purple, the tip of each is
gold, which passes away with age.

Oeta, — An American-raised variety of promise; From crown buds
the flowers are yellow with just a trace of bronze suffusion. From later
formed buds the florets are bronze ; unfortunately the blooms then are
thin, lacking that substance which is necessary to make a perfect incurved
bloom.

Baron Hirsoh. — This variety has been plentifully shown this season,
being freely produced, but it lacks quality, the petals being too erect to
be termed quite first-rate.

Miss Bella Wilson. — As I concluded last year, this variety is too
pointed in its petals and too coarse in the bloom to ever become popular
as an exhibition variety.

Comte de Paris.— By many this variety is confused with the

Japanese Marquise de Paris. In form it partakes somewhat of the style
of Jeanne d’Arc ; pure white in colour, with just a tinge of blush about
the base of the flower.

Japanese Vaeieties.

These are more numerous than in any year previous, and many
excellent varieties have been obtained, which will improve the exhibitor’s
stand considerably.

Mdlle, TMrese Rey, — This must have the post of honour, it being
one of the finest introductions of recent years, All other white varieties
for exhibition pale before this French-raised seedling of M. Calvat.
Well developed blooms measure from 7 inches to 8 inches in diameter,
and are of corresponding depth, a point which renders this variety
valuable for exhibiting. The florets are of medium width, and incurve
slightly at the tip until fully expanded, when the point gives a little
twist. The flower is white, with a faint tinge of cream in the unfolding
florets. In habit of growth nothing could be more desirable ; the foliage
is especially robust, Wooms appear to come full sized on rather weakly
looking stems, which is a proof of its freedom. A bloom of this variety
was illustrated in the Journal of Horticulture for November 16th,
page 449.

President Borel. — The colour is rose-magenta, the reverse pale gold,
which is very perceptible in half-opened blooms. The florets are flat
and of medium width, the flower being large enough for any purpose.
I should advise exhibitors to add this to their list without delay.

Louise. — This belongs to the type of incurved Japanese, and is one
of M. Calvat’s latest introductions. Not only is it a desirable acquisi¬
tion for the cut bloom stand, but growing only 2 feet 6 inches high, and
producing extraordinarily fine blooms, it must be indispensable for
grouping purposes. The colour is flesh pink, and quite unique in that
respect.

Charles Davis. — This is a grand acquisition. Being a sport from
Viviand Morel is of approved habit of growth, giving full siz^ exhibi¬
tion blooms from plants '3 feet 6 inches high. The bloom varies much
in its colouring, according to the date of “ taking ” the buds. Those
formed early develop soft yellow blooms, while later ones give canary
yellow flowers, beautifully tinted with rosy bronze. The blooms are
fully 7 to 8 inches in diameter, and of corresponding depth.

Madame Edouard Rey. — Early buds of this open pale lilac in colour,
being spotted and suffused with rose ; those from later buds have more
colour, warm rose pink. The florets are broad, incurving at the tips.
The flower is full size, and a valuable addition to the exhibitor.

Eda Prass. — An incurved Japanese, though some blooms when fully
developed lose that form. It is a desirable variety, and the colour is
pleasing, being a warm peach tint.

Mrs. Charles Cox. — A sport from Mons. Bernard, possessing all the
characteristics of its parent in formation of flower. The colour is golden,
base suffused with red. Blooms developing from late buds will exhibit
a richer tone of colour.

Dr, Mrs. Ward. — An American-raised variety, having broad florets ;
the tip of each recurves, giving the flower a novel appearance. The
surface of the florets is golden amber, which is fully displayed ; the edge
of each is brick red. A striking novelty.

Miss Watson. — A desirable variety for grouping, being especially
pleasing in point of colouring — a warm shade of yellow. In formation
the flower closely resembles Avalanche. As a front-row bloom it will
be useful to the exhibitor, but as a decorative variety it will prove
serviceable to all.

Miss Dorothy Shea, — Although sent out last year, it was only during
the present season that this variety was seen in its true character. I
believe this variety supplied the finest individual bloom that I saw this
season in a rather extended tour. The bloom in question was fully
8 inches wide and 7 inches deep, and was quite full in the centre. The
colour is a rich terra cotta, with buff reverse. The petals are rather
narrow and smooth. An exhibitor’s variety.

Princess Victoria, ■ — This is one of Mr. Seward’s English-raised
seedlings, and represents a good type of flower. The florets are of
medium width, slightly twisted at the points. Colour creamy white,
flushed rose at the base. A full solid flower. The habit of growth is
all that could be desired. — E. Molynedx,

(To be continued.)

Ceetificated Cheysanthemums.

On Tuesday last the Floral Committee of the National Chrysanthemum
Society held a meeting at the Royal Aquarium, when Mr. George Gordon
occupied the chair. Considering the lateness of the meeting, some
meritorious flowers were staged, and first class certificates were awarded
as follows : —

Judge Hoitt (Mr. H. J. Jones). — A large Japanese Anemone variety
with quilled incurving ray florets of a rosy blush tint, rather a flat disk
of pure white.

Col. T. C. Bourne (Mr. R, Owen). — A Japanese variety ; very long flat
florets of a rich rosy wine-coloured crimson, with reverse of old gold.

Lord Rosebery (Mr. R. Owen). — An incurved bloom of good size and
very solid. The colour is a deep rosy purple.

There were several other Chrysanthemums which the Committee
desired to see again — viz., Mrs. Smith Ryland, a Japanese incurved,
with large broad florets, crimson inside, a large solid flower ; Mrs. Dr.
Ward, a Japanese incurved hairy variety of good size, colour yellow and
bronze ; Mr. H. Jackson, an incurved Japanese of deep golden yellow ;
Mr. C. R. Bessent, a white incurved Japanese, with florets of good

December 7, 1893. 3

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

616

Bubstance, and a very compact bloom ; and C. B. Whitnall, an incurved
flower of American origin, colour deep purple crimson.

Some small but curious thread-petalled flowers, said to have been
sent from Japan, were also staged by Mr. Morter, to whom a vote of
thanks was accorded.

Cups and Tubes.

Though we have cups and tubes of improved patterns “ the Perfect ”
has yet to come. We want a cup with a spring or clip in the neck that
will catch the stem of the flower when drawn down, and hold it
securely and firmly in position. Especially is the want felt with
incurved blooms, for pinning the stem with a cork wedge does not
give satisfactory results. Some of them are sure to get loose, and by
the time you reach “the halls of judgement” they are wobbling
about. — E. K.

Hairy Chrysanthemums.

I HAVE been expecting to hear something about these new candidates
for public favour, and have kept a rather keen look-out for them
wherever I have been this season. There have, however, been so many
of the other sections shown in fine form that hairy varieties, or at
least the newest of them, seem to have escaped anything like marked
attention. Everybody is now fairly well acquainted with the older
sorts like Mrs. Alpheus Hardy, Louis Boehmer, L’Enfant des Deux
Mondes, W. A. Manda, and a few others, that nothing need be said con¬
cerning them. But some notes of a few of the novelties may be
acceptable to those interested in the new class .

Hairy Wonder is a Japanese incurved bloom of a deep bronzy yellow,
with numerous hairs on the reverse of the petals ; and another, called
King of the Hirsutes, which I saw at the Aquarium in Mr. Jones’ stand,
is also a yellow, which, in the uncertain light of that building, seemed
to approach too nearly in form and colour to W. A. Manda. Sautel,
1893, is probably the best, for it is larger in size than most of those in
its class ; it has deeply grooved incurving florets of a light rosy amaranth
inside, with a pale pink silvery reverse. Chrysanthemiste Delaux is not
pretty, although distinct, is a dull bronzy crimson. Mireilli is also a
Japanese, the colour pale lilac. Souvenir de I’Ami Coye is better in
several respects, being a pure white Jap of the incurved type, with
narrow pointed florets and plenty of hair on the reverse. Belle Arl4sienne,
like the four preceding, comes from France ; it is less hairy than the
others, but the colour is clear and good, being pure white, with a delicate
shade of yellow in the centre. William Falconer is a pretty pale blush
sport from Louis Boehmer, a more refined looking flower than the
parent. This was raised in America, where it is also known, I believe,
as Patrick Barry. Mrs. Dieterichs is probably from the same country,
the florets incurve, and the colour is a clear silvery shade of mauve.
Miss Baldwin is rather a flat flower, very tall in growth, the colour pale
mauve or amaranth. There are about twenty other sorts announced in
the catalogues, but the above are all I have seen worth mentioning. — P.

Pompon Florence Carr.

Probably never in any season has there been more Pompon
Chrysanthemums shown than during the current year, for at all
local shows they have been well represented, while at the “ National ”
Exhibition they were shown in abundance. With the exception of one
or two cases they were all of very high quality, showing that they are
becoming more popular, and as the varieties are not very extensive
any good sort would be much appreciated, and that I think we shall find
in Florence Carr. This is a variety raised by a Mr. W. Carr of Croydon,
who exhibited it at the show held in the Royal Aquarium, West¬
minster, where it was commended ; it received a first-class certificate at
the Crystal Palace this year. The colour of this new Pompon is of a
deep bronzy red, flower of large size, fine substance, and the plant a
dwarf habit of growth, something after the style of Mdlle. Elise Dordan.
I do not know whether this Pompon is being sent out ; if not, I hope
it soon will be. Perhaps some of our readers will be able to give us
their opinion about it. — Grower.

Incurved Japanese Chrysanthemums.

Where any society is afliliated to the N.C.S. the duties of judges are
clearly defined in the matter of nomenclature, and their duties in this
respect are rendered quite easy. Varieties that do not correspond
with the published description of each in the official catalogue must of
necessity be disqualified. In the case in point (page 497) the judges
ought to have exercised their powers in disqualifying L6on Frache and
Mdlle. M, Hoste, as they are clearly not recognised as incurved Japanese.
The latter was introduced by Lacroix, 1891, and except a few florets
from early formed buds the blooms cannot be termed incurved at all.
L^on Frache opens with an inclination to incurve, but this eventually
passes away, leaving the florets quite flat. Now that this section is
increasing so fast varieties that remain incurved when fully developed
only ought to be admitted. For instance, Robert Owen is a true type
of incurved Japanese.

Where judges have no definite law laid down for their guidance, as
in the case of new varieties, it is then rather embarrassing for them to be
called upon to make a law applicable to certain varieties. — E. M.

Chrysanthemum Catalogues.

May I be allowed to point out a very important matter in con¬
nection with the new Chrysanthemum catalogues which does not seem

to have entered the minds of our principal growers ? In these days there
is a large number of persons interested in tracing the origin of some of the
new flowers and of discovejring the age, raisers, and names of some of
the older ones. A set of old catalogues of any of the principal Chrys¬
anthemum importers would afford much interesting material of this sort,
especially if they could be bound up together in a neat handy little
volume. With the lists of most of the leading firms this is impossible,
because every two or three years they alter the sizes of their lists, with
the obvious result that after lying about for a time they become dog¬
eared, the wrappers torn, and are little better than waste paper. If some
of our trade growers would only do as the late Mr. John Salter, or as
Messrs, Dixon did — keep their lists to one size — many of us would, 1 am
sure, carefully place them aside year by year and have them bound up
for future reference and instruction. This is a plan I have adopted for
some years where possible, but unfortunately several of our leading
trade growers and importers will never be represented in my set of
Chrysanthemum catalogues because of the frequent changes they have
made in their lists. — P,

Mr. Mawley’s Chrysanthemum Analysis.

Whilst all must concede that Mr. Mawley has in the preparation of
his Chrysanthemum analysis, published in the Journal of Horticulture
for November 30th, shown great patience many persons will ask of what
use is it when it is published ? The figures given of the number of blooms
shown at the Royal Aquarium November shows are interesting, in so
far as they exhibit the rise and wane of exhibitors’ enthusiasm. Starting
low in 1885, rapidly rising for the next three years, falling to zero in
1889, then springing up most spasmodically to more than double the
number of the previous year, then coming down again gradually to a
low ebb in 1892, when many exhibitors doubtless having the measure
of their quality wisely retired from a competition at which only the very
best blooms can win. Still even these figures are of no appreciable
value to the present day grower, whilst the long lists of varieties that
have been popular in past days read simply as old history, for to-day
already three-fourths of the Japanese mentioned are as good as dead and
buried.

In the case of the incurved forms they move so slowly that change
is far less in their case in ten years than in the Japanese in one year.
Now, what would be far more useful as well as interesting, would be
selections made by hona-fide private growers and exhibitors of say
twenty-four of the best Japanese selected from their own or other boxes
of the past show season. With exhibitors it is most important to learn
not of old and now shunted sorts, but of the very best present day varieties.
I should rigidly exclude from the growers who may be invited to join
in this selection — and some twenty-five to thirty would be ample — all
trade growers. The object should be to secure impartial returns of the
very finest varieties, each one being placed on the list by the sender in
the order in which he regards it as meritorious.

It is so very obvious that whilst this season we have seen fully one
half of the places in good class boxes occupied by new or practically
new varieties, that next year that proportion will be extended to fully
two-thirds, almost the only so-called old varieties, perhaps, being
E. Molyneux, Avalanche, Sunflower, Viviand Morel, W. H. Lincoln, and
Etoile de Lyon ; and of these how many will be found in first-class
stands two years hence ? It is this great swiftness to displace older good
sorts that presents such a terror almost to exhibitors. They cannot, if
they wish to be in the front ranks, refrain from obtaining the best new
sorts, but they do not want to purchase varieties that have either not been
seen or may prove worthless. It is in this respect that high-class selec¬
tions by leading private growers would prove so helpful.

Whilst we do undoubtedly derive splendid varieties of Japanese
Chrysanthemums from seed, and for such a facile means of obtaining
variations we ought to be grateful, yet is it in danger of becoming some¬
thing of a nuisance, because it is at once so difficult and so costly to keep
pace with novelty production. Only last week there were at the Drill
Hall and the Aquarium no less than eight Japanese varieties certificated,
and at the preceding meetings on November 7th and 14th at the same
place nine other J apanese were certificated and several others had been
certificated previously, so that altogether some twenty-five at least have
been so honoured, and another twenty-five have come so near to honours
as to show that they have if well grown high merit. What wonder is
it if in such case a selection becomes bewildering ? — A. D.

The Right Bud.

This is the most perplexing question a Chrysanthemum grower can
put to me. I get this question from all parts of Scotland, Ireland,
Wales, and England, but it cannot be answered without some
consideration. First, as to what part of the British Isles does the ques¬
tion come from ? What time of the year were the cuttings rooted f
How were they treated after rooting ? When were the plants potted ?
Were they ever topped, pinched, or cut back ?

Before a correct or final answer can be given all the above details
must be taken into consideration. The “ right bud ” for southern England
is the wrong bud for northern districts, and the same applies to Scotland.
The grower should be the best judge. He should study his locality ; the
time the blooms are required ; whether the variety is early, medium, or
late. No hard and fast rules can be laid down. The seasons vary so
much ; the treatment of plants varies equally as much. Therefore, no
definite answer can be given to this question. Many growers profess to
know the exact bud to select, and when to select it. I do myself, but
only for my own locality, not for Great Britain. — R, U. M.

516

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Decembor 7, 1893.

In Ibeland,

It is very kind of “ Paddy ” (page 497) to refer to me and my visit
to Ireland. I can assure him that I am not so unfavourably impressed
by what I saw as he imagines. True, I did not find Chrysanthemums in
that condition that would enable their owners to be bold enough to cross
over to England and “sweep the decks” of the best prizes at the lead¬
ing shows. The same remark applies to other countries, where I have
gone upon the same errand, therefore this may be some consolation to
“ Paddy.”

If I did not find Chrysanthemums in the condition your corre¬
spondent thinks they should have been upon this occasion, I found
several things that cannot be excelled in England, viz. enthusiasm
coupled with a desire to emulate the successful, and a hearty acceptance
of defeat without the slightest attempt (publicly), and far as I know
privately, to cavil at the awards or to entertain acrimonious feelings
towards the successful exhibitors. This is a trait in the character of an
exhibitor to be proud of, and one that could with advantage be copied
by not a few on this side of the Channel.

I did not expect to find Chrysanthemums of the highest order of
merit, therefore was not disappointed. The date was rather late
for the finest blooms to be seen, and this is some excuse. I knew that
the exhibitors were mainly amateurs, but from blooms that were staged
at the show, “ not for competition,” that had a few days before won
prizes at the exhibition of the R.H.S. of Ireland held in Dublin, I could
very well gauge the Chrysanthemums produced in Ireland, and I would
advise English cultivators not to rest on their laurels or they may find
a “dish” of Irish-grown blooms set in front of them upon an English
exhibition table that might be “humiliating” to the latter. If the
blooms at the Dalkey Show were not entitled to rank as first-class, it is
only fair to che cultivators to say under what conditions some of these
said blooms were produced. Especially do I allude to the exhibits of
the worthy Hon. Secretary, Mr. J. M. Ross, who last year fairly “ cleared
the board,” but this season was not so fortunate, while his successful
rival, Mr. J. Smallman, took all before him.

To return to Mr. Ross and the difficulties he has to encounter in growing
Chrysanthemums. Rarc-an-ilan, the residence of Mr. Ross, is situated
on the edge of a clifiE in Dalkey Bay, facing east, about ten miles from
Dublin. The house is but 40 feet above sea level, and within that dis¬
tance from the sea at high water. During the storm which prevailed
on the 18th, three days before the date of the show, it was not possible
to see through the dining room windows. The glass was thoroughly
encrusted with the salt deposit from the spray which was lashed against
them by the fury of the gale. Within 20 feet of these windows, and
facing south, stands the greenhouse in which the blooms unfolded their
florets. The summer quarters of the plants are situated on the western
side of the house, and but 60 feet from the said dining room windows.
So enthusiastic is Mr. Ross about his Chrysanthemums that for the
summer quarters he has appropriated part of his lawn, so that they
might enjoy more space than hitherto. What would our leading English
exhibitors say if they were told to produce blooms equal to their present
standard under similar circumstances ? Surely this is Chrysanthemum
culture under difiiculties. When these facts are known I doubt not
but that Chrysanthemum growers generally will agree with me that
“ Paddy ” need not take so desponding a view of my first impression
of Ireland.

With regard to the Show itself the competition was very keen.
Specimen plants were really well shown, and would have done credit
to many English meetings. The class for nine distinct specimens
brought out three exhibitors. Mr. Tower, gardener to J. E. McCormick,
Esq,, Monkstown, Co, Dublin, was an easy first with plants from 3 feet
to 4 feet high, not formally trained, but carrying on an average
thirty to forty blooms each, and of really good quality. Mr. W.
M’Comas, The Grange, Monkstown, was a good second. In other
classes for plants Mr. J. Smallman, Shamrock Lodge, Dalkey, was the
principal prizetaker with excellent examples of W. Holmes, Etoile de
Lyon, Mdlle, L. Leroy, E. W. Clark, and Source d’Or. So numerously
were plants staged that a tent had to be requisitioned at the last
moment, the Town Hall not being nearly large enough to contain all
the exhibits. This is the first time that I have seen Chrysanthemums
shown under canvas.

The cut bloom classes were well represented. In the open classes for
cut flowers, Mr. Knowldin, gardener to J. G. Nutting. Esq., Gortmore,
Dundrum, was the principal prizewinner, his exhibits being much in
advance of any other, the blooms showing good culture, and were neatly
staged. Mr. Smallman won several first and second prizes, his blooms
of Florence Davis, E. W. Clark, Viviand Morel, Col. B. Smith, Golden
Empress, Violet Tomlin, Queen of England, Lord Wolseley, and Jardin
des Plantes were really creditable. The Anemone blooms from Mr.
Robert M’Mullen were quite up to English form, being full in the
centre and neatly staged. Prizes were offered for baskets of Chrys¬
anthemums arranged with Ferns and other foliage. Several com¬
mendable exhibits were forthcoming, the best coming from Mrs,
Findlater. — E, Molyneux.

National Chbysanthemum Society. — Annual Dinnee.

The members of the National Chrysanthemum Society held their
annual dinner at Anderton’s Hotel, Fleet Street, E.C., on Thursday
evening, November 30th, and, as on previous occasions, resulted in an
enjoyable gathering. Sir Edwin Saunders, President of the Society,
occupied the chair, and he was supported by many influential gentlemen
interested in the culture of the Chrysanthemum. About 140 persons

sat down at the tables, and amongst others present we noticed Dr. Low,
Professor Aguilar, E . Trimmer, Esq., S. Hutchinson, Esq., W. F. Forsyth,
Esq., Ashley Gibbings, Esq., J. G. McKinlay, Esq., C. E. Shea, Esq.,
J. Halse, Esq, J. W. Wilkinson, Esq., J. T. Berridge, Esq., Messrs.
C. E. Pearson, R. Ballantine, C. H. Payne, T. W. Sanders, D. B. Crane,
H. J. Jones, R. Owen, S. Mortimer, and many well-known horticul¬
turists. The room was tastefully decorated with large Palms and other
foliage plants kindly lent by Messrs. E . D. Shuttleworth & Co., Albert
Nurseries, Peckham Rye, and the tables were embellished with flowers
sent by Messrs. T. Bevan, G. Langdon, H. Cannell, and others. The
arrangements were carried out in an efficient manner by Mr. R. Dean.

Sir Edwin Saunders, after the customary loyal toasts had been
rendered, proposed the toast of the evening, “ The National Chrysan¬
themum Society.” On rising the Chairman observed that he was sure
the toast would meet with a ready response. He thought it might with
great propriety be termed “ Continued Success to the National Chrysan¬
themum Society,” inasmuch the progress made during the past few
years left nothing to be desired. In proof of this he would give a few
statistics which had been placed before him. Already 150 new members
and twelve Fellows have been elected during the present year. (Hear,
hear.) In addition to this fact nine more societies were recently affiliated.
The growth of Chrysanthemum societies in Australia and at the Cape
was a stirring instance of the popularity of this flower. Regarding the
exhibitions held under the auspices of the N.C.S. during the present
year, he might say that these had been most successful, not only in the
extent of the exhibits, but the quality of the flowers. It was acknow¬
ledged by experts that some of the Japanese blooms staged at the
October Exhibition rivalled those generally seen a month later. The
November Exhibition was one of the finest the Society has ever held,
there being nearly 500 entries. The meetings of the Floral Committee
in October and November had been the means of bringing together a
large number of new varieties, showing the increased interest taken in
the Chrysanthemum by various raisers. They had received flowers for
examination from the continent and other parts of the world. Early in
the present year the Society sent, as they were well aware, blooms
frozen in ice to New Zealand, and he had reason to believe they created
much interest there. The educational work of the Society, including
the papers read at conferences and meetings, had played an important
part in disseminating a love for this flower. He considered this was a
record of which those who were mainly instrumental in bringing it
about may justly be proud. The Society wes established at a period
when the Chrysanthemum was not in very good favour, but it has
made marvellou.s progress, and he ventured to think that the world
was greatly indebted to the N.C.S. for the wonderful improvement
made in the flower. (Hear, hear.) While occasional spasmodic exer¬
tions of a few growers may be useful, it was to the emulations of
exhibitions held under the auspices of the Soc'ety that one must look
for advancement. He viewed the Chrysanthemum from three points
— sesthetic, educational, and commercial. In the first he included the
improvements in size of flower, form, cultural details, to say nothing
of the numerous insect pests with which growers had to contend.
Then the arrangement of the flowers was an important feature,
seeing that colours were not brought into juxtaposition, but blending
them harmoniously. With reference to the second point, he had already
remarked upon the educational work being taken forward by them ;
and as to the commercial side of the question, he hardly dare tread
upon that ground further than saying that the trade growers merited
all that could be said in their favour, whether they be actual or potential
millionaires. (Laughter.) The Chairman concluded by remarking that
the Chrysanthemum, as we now see it, was a modern flower, and he
doubted not that the ancient Romans would have given much to have
possessed such splendid blooms as were so plentiful now for decorating
the tables at their banquets. (Applause.)

Mr. R. Ballantine gave the next toast, that of “The Affiliated
Societies,” and in doing so remarked that they had been a great strength
to the National Chrysanthemum Society. When the idea was started
eight years ago fifteen societies became affiliated to the “National,” and
they had gone on increasing by leaps and bounds until there were now
102 affiliated societies. Many of these were in Wales, a few in Scotland,
and, he was glad to say, one in Ireland ; there was also one in the Cape,
but the greatest pleasure of all was in announcing that they had ten
affiliated societies in that “ England over the sea ” — Australasia. They
had been favoured with the presence of representatives from such
societies on these occasions, and he well remembered the centenary
festival when a lady representative from Tasmania was present. The
result of this, and the excellent manner in which their indefatigable
Foreign Secretary, Mr. C. H. Payne, carried out his arduous duties, was
that the Chrysanthemum had increased in popularity in the colonies.
It was from New Zealand that they received the first consignment of
frozen flowers, and he had the pleasure that of assisting to reciprocate
by despatching some frozen blooms from one of their exhibitions. These
flowers had been exhibited in New Zealand and several parts of Australia,
and were much appreciated. He was pleased to couple with the toast
the name of Mr, W. Ratchelous, who represented the St, Neots Society,
which had won the challenge trophy for the third time. (Cheers.)

Mr. Ratchelous briefly responded, and said that although St. Neots
was one of the smallest Chrysanthemum societies in the kingdom, most
people would agree with him that it had been well represented at the
exhibitions. The members of it had won the trophy three times, and he
hoped the Society would win it again. It was specially gratifying to him
to hear that there was an affiliated Society in Ireland, because he had

December 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

517

recently received a letter from an Irish gentleman, H. F. Smith Barry,
Bsq., as member of Parliament for their district, congratulating the
members of St. Neots Society on the success they had attained. (Cheers.)

Mr. C. E. Shea in giving “ The Health of the President,” said that in
Sir Edwin Saunders they had a President that was in sympathy with the
interests of the National Chysanthemum Society. He presided at the
dinners and at the conferences, and he was a gentleman of patience and
endurance. He said that advisedly, because Sir Edwin had once read a
paper of his (the speaker’s) whilst he was away. He congratulated the
Society upon having such an admirable President. The Chairman
briefly responded, remarking that he should have pleasure in forwarding
the interests of the Society.

Dr. George Walker proposed “ The Vice-Presidents, Officers, and
Committees of the Society,” and briefly eulogised them. To the officers
and Committee he said much of the success of the Society was due.
They had a capital President, excellent Secretaries, and Committees
that worked like slaves.

Mr. C. Harman Payne, the Foreign Corresponding Secretary of the
Society, and Mr. H. Cannell responded.

The Chairman briefly rendered “ The Visitors,” to which Dr. Low
responded.

Mr. J. W. Wilkinson, Secretary Royal Aquarium, gave “ The Press,”
which toast was responded to by Messrs. E. Ranger Johnson and
B. Wynne.

During the evening the presentation of, prizes took place, including
the challenge trophy. Holmes’ Memorial cups, and medals awarded to
various growers for blooms and plants staged at the exhibitions during
the present year. It was announced that owing to the generosity of
the President the reserve fund now amounted to upwards of £50,

NATURE’S HELPS TO GARDENERS.

The Laced-Winged Fly.

As though to assist man in his labours. Nature has provided several
checks on the multiplication of the aphis tribe, if we, in our ignorance,
did not mar her efforts. Besides the larvae of the Syrphidae, referred
to in the Journal of Horticulture for October 26th, page 383, there are
other insects that help to lessen their numbers.

The larva of the lace wing fly (Hemerobius), see fig. 75, is a very
voracious aphis eater, and consequently a most useful help to us
gardeners. Not being in the shape of a maggot or grub — as it is a six¬
legged perfect Insect to most eyes — the larva may perhaps often escape
death, being considered harmless ; but owing to its enormous
jaws, certainly a third of the length of the whole body, it might by
mistaking head for tail be thought a small earwig and suffer accordingly.
Like the earwig we often see in half-fo Ided leaves, it is brownish-grey in
colour, and quick in movements. These larvte are gormandisers, so much
so as to induce the naturalist Reaumur to style them the lions of the aphis
tribe. The jaws are peculiarly formed, so that the aphis held by them
are speedily sucked dry and tossed aside. When fully grown they
make a sort of cocoon, in which they remain many months before the
chrysalis changes to the perfect fly. This is an insect of the dragon fly
tribe, having four large very fine wings, beautifully veined, many of a
pale bluish green colour ; the whole insect is pale green in colour, and
the eyes are like brilliantly burnished gold. Though its wings are
large its powers of flight are very feeble ; this renders it an easy prey
to birds and children. Its smell is disgusting, and this probably earns
death for it from those who do not know its great value in the economy
of Nature.

The eggs are very peculiar, whitish or pale primrose in colour,
oval in shape, and are at the end of a long white stem from a quarter
to half inch in length. These stems of the eggs are attached to
leaves or to the smaller twigs, fifteen or twenty in close proximity to
each other. The stem is both firm and elastic, so that when blown
about they are rarely injured. They are said to form a dainty morsel
for other aphis eaters — viz., some of the ladybird tribe. They are often
found on the Privet. — Y. B. A. Z.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

November 28th.

Scientific Committee. — Present : Dr. M. T. Masters (in the
chair). Prof. Church, Mr. McLachlan, Mr. Bunyard, Rev. W. Wilks, Dr.
Bonavia, and Rev. G. Henslow, Hon. Sec.

Pears and Fungicides. — With reference to the remedies suggested by
Mr. Massee, Dr. Masters inquired of Mr. Bunyard as to his experience in
their use. He replied that growers were frequently deterred from
employing any poisonous preparations in consequence of the careless¬
ness of the men from their want of realising the dangers involved in
using them, so that they preferred to employ sulphur, and especially the
“ black ” impurer sort.

Tamarix dimorphic. — Mr. Henslow remarked that the two species
common in Egypt, T. articulata and T. nilotica, corresponded with the
two forms of Casuarina exhibited by Dr. Masters at the last meeting,
who observed that T. gallica not infrequently develops the two forms on
the same plant.

Sterculia nobilis, R. Br. — A fruiting specimen of this plant was
received from Syon House. A synonym is Southwellia nobilis, of Salis¬
bury’s ” Paradisus Londinensis.” It has been known to fruit in this
country, but Dr. Masters observed that it is rarely now seen. The

present tree is eighty years old, but never fruited before. Dr. Church
observed that being closely allied to Theobroma cacao or Chocolate, it
would be interesting to examine the seeds for theobromine.

Primula capitata and Basal Rot in Daffodils. — The following com¬
munication was received from Rev. C. Wolley Dod, Edge Hall : — “ I
have been engaged for several years in investigating that mysterious
phenomenon, basal rot in Daffodils. The Scientific Committee have
assured me (after repeated examination of bulbs sent by me) that no
specific cause of it can be detected. I am inquiring whether there is
anything analogous to it in any other plants — viz., death from general
unsuitable conditions, commencing at the juncture between the root and
the bud, and producing decay there, partial or entire. I have noticed some-

pig. 75.— the laced winged fly (hemerobius).

A, the Eggs ; B B, the Larvae ; C, the perfect Fly, natural size ; D, the same in flight.

thing similar in some Himalayan Primroses, especially Primula Stuarti,
which I have ceased to cultivate because the base of the bud (I use bud in
its botanical sense of crown from which the leaves sprout) is so apt to
rot into pulp. In P. capitata, however, of which I have grown and
flowered thousands during the last fifteen years, no winter bud is ever
formed. Mr. G. Wilson tells me that in his garden at Wisley it is a hardy
perennial, but with me it invariably dies if left out in winter. The
tissues are not destroyed by hard frosts, for after a hard winter the
leaves in the centre of the tuft often continue green in February, but
rot seems to commence at the base, as in the specimens enclosed, and
the open leaf tuft invariably rots off before spring, being often still
green. I should be glad of an opinion whether the case is likely to be
analogous to that of basal rot in Daffodils?” Mr. Wilks corroborated
Mr. Dod’s experience, as he found the plants died in a similar manner in
his garden. The specimen was forwarded to Kew for examination.

Cuscuta rejlexa. — A specimen of this parasite growing on Jasminum
revolutum was received from Mr. F. W. Burbidge of the Tr. Col. Botanic
Gardens, Dublin. He observes that ” it does nearly as well on Forsythia
viridissima and F. suspensa, as well as on Ivy. Indoors in a warm
house. Pelargoniums, Fuchsias, and Crotons seem to suit it best. We
had it growing on a Zonal Pelargoniuni which was placed in the Jasmine
on a west wall last May, and it now forms a wiry net-like mass 10 feet
high and 8 feet wide. It often twists upon itself.” An examination of
the suckers or haustoria showed that the Cuscuta often preyed upon
' itself whenever two branches were spirally twisted together. As far as

618

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Ee member 7, 1833.

a few observations can be trusted the roots of the thicker of the two
stems always penetrated the other. It frequently fixed itself to the
surface of the leaves of the Jasmine as well as around the stems and
petioles.

Preserving Fresh Fruit in Carbonic Acid Gas. — The following
communication was received from Mr. W. Sykes of Woodleigh, East
Dulwich, being a description of experiments suggested at a meeting
of the Scientific Committee on July 25th : — “ On August 23rd I put
down some Apples, Pears, Plums, Tomatoes, and eggs, but am sorry to
say that, so far, my experiments with carbonic acid gas are unsatis¬
factory ; neither does it appear to check the ripening or decomposition,
and it gives the fruit a peculiar flavour. The Apples have a musty,
coddled taste. With the Plums the gas centres round the stones. In
the Tomatoes there is a sharp, forbidding, pungent taste throughout,
which leaves them after standing twenty-four hours in the air. I
allowed the gas to pass through the washing bottle into the tins, the
natural air escaping through a pipe. After the fresh air had escaped
(tested with a lighted match), I closed the latter pipe and let the gas
work itself dead slow. After giving them all a good application (three
dozen taking in both applications some six hours) I went through them
again, opening the escape pipe mentioned above to scour out, then I
reclosed it with pliers before closing the entrance pipe, the gas had
worked dead slow, the top and bottom bulging out. The pressure at the
gauge stood at 5 lbs. The water in the washing bottle was fresh boiled
and put into the washer (just bearable) being changed for every dozen
tins. I did not exhaust the air, and found with this test of a week that
the Tomatoes were sweating equal to those kept for over a fortnight
after the air was exhausted. Some Coryopsis, white Marguerites, and
Nasturtiums were put under the same process (August 23rd). The first
kept well, and after being in water looked none the worse ; the white
of the Marguerites turned to a pale chocolate beyond recovery, and the
Nasturtiums collapsed into a withered heap.” Professor Church observed
that the failure might have been due to an insufficient time having been
allowed for the atmospheric air to diffuse. He added that much
carbonic acid had been proved to exist around Mangold roots when turfed
over, which undoubtedly acted as a preservative.

GRAPES AND TOMATOES.

[Read at Hereford by Mr. S. T. Wright, Gardener to 0. Lee Campbell, Esq., Glewstone

Court, Ross.]

The Cultivation of Grapes.

In dealing with this subject my remarks must be brief, as time will
not permit of an elaborate description of Grape-growing. A good start
is important, and to insure that result perfect drainage is essential, as
stagnant water is fatal to satisfactory results, so that if there is not a
free drainage naturally, it should be provided ; at the same time a
heavy expense is unnecessary. A drain put down the middle of the
border and covered with a foot of rubble will be ample ; over this turves
should be placed, grass side downwards ; and if the soil is of a fairly
open character. I would not use anything but turf in making the border.
If the soil is heavy, just sufficient lime, mortar, or plaster refuse may be
added to keep the mass open and allow the water to pass away freely.
My experience is decidedly against mixing animal manures with the
soil for the border. It is not wanted, and it is very apt to cause the
border to become sour, and the Vines more or less unhealthy in con¬
sequence. It is a mistake to make the border full width at first.
Supposing it to be from 2|^ to 3 feet deep, which is deep enough, a
border 3 or 4 feet wide at first will be ample for the first two years,
and after fruiting has commenced a foot more may be added until the
allotted space has been filled. Opinions differ as to the best time to
plant young Vines. I favour planting when the Vine is in active
growth, disturbing the roots as little as possible, avoiding deep planting,
but having the top roots of the Vine only 2 or 3 inches below the surface
of the border, making the soil firm about the roots, and a thorough
soaking of water applied at once. Liquid manure is seldom requisite
for the first year, as it would probably cause a thick pithy growth,
difficult to ripen, and thus a source of trouble in the future. What
should be aimed at is a short-jointed, hard wood, with bold buds, that
will be almost certain to give satisfactory results. Attention to venti¬
lation, atmospheric moisture, and watering of the border is all-important
to grow first-class Grapes.

Taking ventilation first, every practical gardener is well aware how
the weather has to be studied, increasing or reducing the air admitted
according to external circumstances. If too much air is given, so as to
give the Vines a check, mildew sets in, or the Grapes refuse to swell
properly, and if too little is given, scalding of the foliage occurs. To
prevent such disasters a constant watch on the weather must be main¬
tained, thus avoiding any rapid rising or falling of the temperature.
On bright mornings a little air should be admitted early, gradually
increasing it as the sun gets more power, and closing in the afternoon
with good sun heat, while the Vines are growing. When the fruit
begins to colour a little air should be left on day and night, but not
allowing the temperature to become unduly low. After the fruit is
cut plenty of air should be admitted, and the Vines kept as cool as
possible without becoming frosted.

Atmospheric moisture is only second in importance to ventilation.
As a rule Vines are started into growth at a temperature of 45° to 50°,
with a thorough syringing of the rods twice Ja day, once in the
morning and again in the afternoon when the house is closed. The
Dorder walls, and paths are also damped several times daily, and the

evaporating troughs on the hot-water pipes kept full of water. As the
Vines come into bloom syringing them ceases, aad a rather drier
atmosphere maintained until the Grapes are set. If the Vines are in
good health a sharp rap on the rods will cause the pollen to fly freely,
and thus cause a good set. As soon as all the bunches are finished
setting all the worst or smallest should be cut off, and a more genial
atmosphere maintained, thoroughly damping the floors and borders
early in the morning, and again in the middle of the day if bright, and
again in the afternoon, shutting up with a good sun heat. If the
temperature rises to 90° or 100° when closed in the evening, so much the
better for Grapes, providing there is plenty of moisture, as it will cause
the berries to swell rapidly, and also suit the foliage of the Vine.

Early thinning is of vital necessity if large bunches and berries are
desired. In thinning, a space of about 1 inch will be ample for each
berry, but for the smaller-berried varieties a little less may be allowed.
The number of bunches each Vine should carry depends on its
health and vigour and the size of the bunch. For a healthy Vine,
I consider from 30 to 40 lbs. per rod of about 16 feet long a fair crop ;
with liberal feeding and good management such a crop of Grapes
ought to finish well, and produce a similar amount annually.

The question of feeding is somewhat complex, as soils vary so much
that manure excellent in one place may be of little value in another,
owing to the different constituents present or absent naturally in the
soil. Therefore it is evident that Grape growers must ascertain what
elements are lacking in their soil necessary to produce good Grapes, and
when this deficiency is discovered it will be easy to remedy the defect.
Judging from my experience in various parts of the country, I think
the majority of Vines do not receive anything like adequate nourish¬
ment. When we consider the Grapes, wood, and foliage taken every
year from the Vines, it is apparent that a vast amount of plant food has
been absorbed from the soil, and unless these elements are returned
nothing can prevent degeneration setting in through exhaustion. Again,
I think too much importance is attached to animal manures ; all solid
or liquid manures from cattle have a tendency to cause sourness of the
border, followed by unhealthy root action. The best form in which to
apply animal manures is in connection with artificial or chemical
manures; if used with care, judgment, and a knowledge of the soil,
splendid results will be certain, if combined with good culture in other
respects.

The following manures I have used with satisfactory results at
Glewston Court on the light sandy soil there : — Liquid and solid manure
from cows, liquid manure extracted from sheep droppings, fish guano,
bonemeal, superphosphate of lime, and muriate of potash. The time of
feeding is all the year round in the case of Vines under my charge ;
manure in some form is applied even when the Grapes are ripe, which
does not affect the flavour at all, but greatly assists the Vines to bear
the crop, helping also to develop the buds for next season. The
advantage of winter feeding, or while the Vines are at rest, I consider
of much importance, for though the root action is slight at that
period the soil absorbs the plant food applied, and when fresh growth
is made it is there in the most available form for the roots to take up as
they require it ; consequently the Vines start into growth in a most
gratifying manner.

Pruning is best done as early as possible after the foliage falls ; in fact,
I seldom wait until all is down, but, as soon as about four-fifths of the
leaves have fallen I prune all side shoots to the first good bud nearest the
main rod, which is usually the first or second eye. Young leading rods, if
strong, may be pruned to within 3 or 4 feet of the old cut ; a greater
length of young wood is seldom advisable if the Vines are to crop for a
considerable number of years. In concluding this paper on Grapes, I
would strongly urge the importance of cleanliness. Insect enemies of
all kinds must not be allowed a footing, and every effort should be made
to keep the Vines free from attack, and the foliage clean and healthy
right up to the time it falls. By doing so success is practically assured.

Tomatoes and their Culture.

In this short paper on Tomatoes, only the chief points connected
with their management will be given. So popular have Tomatoes
become, that nearly all classes have become consumers, and many acres
of glass are devoted to meeting the demand for them. At the same time
I question if all the Tomatoes sold as English are grown in this country ;
and many persons have been so disappointed at the flavourless fruit
they purchased that they have decided to try to grow their own. To
such persons I hope the following remarks may prove serviceable : —

If a moderate amount of heat under glass can be obtained, the early
part of February is a good time to sow the seed, which should be sown
rather thinly in a pot or pan containing fine and fairly rich soil. As
soon as the seedlings appear they should be placed in a position close to
the glass to prevent their becoming drawn. When the young plants are
large enough to handle, they ought to be placed singly in small pots,
making the soil moderately firm, and after giving a good watering placed
near the glass again. Care must be taken that they do not suffer by
want of water, otherwise they become stunted, and seldom do much
good afterwards.

As the pots become full of roots, the plants may be shifted into a
larger size, in soil composed principally of turfy loam and a slight
addition of bonemeal and decayed horse droppings, still keeping the
plants near the glass to cause a stout sturdy growth. The next shift,
the plants may be transferred to large pots or boxes, using the same soil
as previously named, and placing the plants in the lightest position
possible, avoiding overcrowding. From one to three stems, according to
room, can be trained up, pinching out all side growths as they appear ;

Cecember 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

619

and if the foliage is too thick half of each of the largest leaves should be
cut away.

No feeing with manmres is required until the first truss of fruit is
set ; then feed as much as you like, as the fruit prevents any undue
groBsness. By heavy feeding the plants will continue bearing for
months. At all times avoid a close, moist atmosphere, as it is almost
certain to cause disease to set in. A warm and dry atmosphere with
plenty of liquid nourishment suits the Tomato.

Outdoor Tomatoes should be sown in heat early in March, and kept
growing sturdily from the first as before mentioned, gradually hardening
the plants off in May, and planting them out in warm and sheltered
positions at the end of that month, keeping the shoots far enough apart
to prevent crowding, and shortening the leaves if necessary. A mulch
of good manure, or an occasional soaking of the same in liquid form,
when the plants are fruiting, will act very beneficially. At the end of
August all further growth should be stopped, as fruit formed after that
date will not develop properly ; and it is better to throw all the strength
of the plant into the fruit already formed. If any fruit is not ripened
when cold weather approaches, it should be cut off with a good piece of
stem, and hung up in a warm place where it will colour later on.

DESSERT TABLE COMPETITIONS.

At the Hull Chrysanthemum Show there has been a challenge cup
competition for a dessert table for many years past, the exact wording
of the schedule being as follows : “ Dessert table, S feet by 4 feet,
completely laid out for six persons, only Chrysanthemums loith any hind
of foliage to be used in its decoration.”

This year the first prize was awarded to a table having no dessert
thereon, excepting one small dish containing about half dozen chocolates
and another the same number of Almonds ; there were also six plates,
and knives and forks, in addition to the floral decorations, but no fruit
or other accessories. On the one hand it is held that it is not the
custom now to put the dessert on the table along with the floral
decorations, and as this table was the best artistic arrangement as
related to the use of Chrysanthemums and foliage, the prize was, from
that point of view, rightly given to it.

On the other hand, it is contended that as there was no fruit or other
accessories placed it did not comply with the terms of the schedule,
having regard to the words “ completely laid out,” consequently must
have been disqualified had a protest been entered. I shall be glad to
know which is the correct view. Being a challenge competition not
yet finished the wording of the schedule cannot be altered. — Edward
Harland.

[ We shall be glad to publish the opinions of table decorators and
show judges on the subject indicated.!

ROYAL AQUARIUM FLOWER SHOW.

December 5th, 6th, and 7th.

An Exhibition of winter flowers, including Chrysanthemums, Cycla¬
mens, and Primulas, was held under the auspices of the National
Chrysanthemum Society at the Koyal Aquarium, Westminster, on the
above dates. There was an exceedingly good display, but owing to the
dull weather that prevailed it was impossible to see the true colours of
the flowers, which were of excellent quality.

The principal class was for twenty-four Japanese blooms, and in this
there were eleven competitors. The flowers were good, and a close
competition resulted. Mr. E. Rowbottom, gardener to H. R. Williams,
Esq., The Priory, Hornsey, won the premier award with a grand stand
of blooms. The best of these were Mdlle. Th^rfese Rey, Beauty of
Castlewood, Empire, Pearl Beauty, G. C. Schwabe, Princess Victoria,
Lizzie Cartledge, W. H. Broomhead, and Etoile de Lyon. Mr. W.
Collins, gardener to J. W. Carlile, Esq., Ponsbourne Park, Heitford, was
second ; and Mr. H. Alderman, gardener to G. Hatfield, Esq., Morden
Hall, Surrey, third. An extra prize was awarded to Mr. W. G. Gilbert,
gardener to B. Le Neve Foster, Esq., J.P., Sennowe Hall, Guist, Norfolk.
For twelve bunches of Japanese blooms, six varieties, Mr. C. W. Knowles,
gardener to Mrs. Chas. Egerton, Solna, Roehampton, was first ; and Mr.
W. Tyster, gardener to Miss Smith Dorridon, Hartwell Villa, Aylesbury,
second. The class for twelve Japanese blooms, distinct, was very keenly
contested, there being seventeen competitors. Mr. J. Turk, gardener to
P. Bosanquet, Esq., Penfield, Hertford, was placed first with fine blooms.
Amongst them E. Molyneux, Pelican, Mrs. E. Beckett, and Mrs. E. W.
Clark were the best. Mr. W. G. Gilbert was second, and Mr. Row-
bottom third.

The flowers in the class for twenty-four bunches of any varieties of
Chrysanthemums made a good display. Mr. C. J. Waite, Glenhurst
Gardens, Esher, was placed first with a stand of blooms tastefully
arranged. Mr. C. W. Knowles was second, and Mr. G. Smith, Floral
Cottage, Hull, third. Mr. C. Cox, gardener to J. Trotter, Esq.,
The Grange, Brickendon, was first with six Japanese blooms, showing
Viviand Morel, G. C. Schwabe, Mrs. E. W. Clarke, Beauty of Castlewood,
Etoile de Lyon, and Robert Owen in splendid condition. Mr. W. Collins
was a good second, and Mr. H. Shoesmith third. Extra prizes were
awarded to Messrs. H. Alderman and A. Gibson.

Incurved blooms were well shown for the time of year. There were
sixteen exhibitors in the class for six blooms, and the competition was
exceedingly keen. The first prize was secured by Mr. H. Alderman, who

had fine examples of Golden Empress of India, Princess Teck, Lady
Dorothy, Lord Alcester, Empress of India, and Barbara; Mr. H. Shoe-
smith was second, and Messrs. W. & G. Drover, Fareham, third. An
extra prize was awarded to Mr. W. G. Gilbert. Mr. H. Shoesmith was
first with twelve blooms, showing these in very good condition. The best
were Princess of Teck, Lady Dorothy, Chas. Gibson, and Hero of Stoke
Newington. Mr. W. G. Gilbert was second, and Mr. G. Smith third.
For twelve incurved blooms in not less than six varieties Messrs. W. & G.
Drover were first, Mr. Gilbert second, and Mr. H. Alderman third.

For six blooms, distinct, of any new varieties Mr. E . Rowbottom won,
showing Le Ver?6au, W. H. Broomhead, Le Drac, Waban, Chas. Blick,
and Mr. Hubbuck. Mr. A. Newell, gardener to Sir Edwin Saunders,
Fairlawn, Wimbledon, was first for six bunches of six Japanese blooms.
Mr. C. W. Knowles was second, and Mr. D, B. Crane, Highgate, a good
third. An extra prize was awarded to Miss R. Debenham, St. Peter’s,
St. Alban’s. The last-named exhibitor was first with twelve bunches of
single Chrysanthemums, Mr. W. C. Pagram, Weybridge, second, and
Mr. G. Smith third. An extra prize was awarded to Mr. J. Agate.
Messrs. T. Lansley, E. Spurge, and F. Hicks secured the prizes for six
Japanese blooms. Mr. W. Howe, gardener to Henry Tate, Esq., Park
Hill, Streatham, was first for a group of foliage, berried, and flowering
plants ; Mr. Newell being second. Mr. D. B. Crane won with a vase of
Chrysanthemums, and Mr. W. Cook with twelve Cyclamens.

Miscellaneous exhibits were numerous, and made a charming display.
Mr. H. J. Jones, Ryecroft Nursery, Lewisham, arranged one of the finest
and most unique exhibits of Chrysanthemums ever seen in this country.
Eleven handsome vases filled with splendid blooms and Mahonia foliage
were placed on a large table with a few Palms for a background. The
vase was filled in with Ferns, amongst which some Chrysanthemum
blooms were dotted. Boxes of flowers were placed on the front, the
whole making a feature that attracted much attention. A gold medal
was awarded to Mr. Jones for his splendid contribution. Mr. J. H. Witty,
Nunhead Cemetery, had a group of Chrysanthemums (silver medal) ;
and Mr. G. Stevens, St. John’s Nursery, arranged a table of blooms
with Palms and Ferns. Mr. E. Rowbottom had a collection of foliage
and flowering plants, as also did Messrs. W. Cutbush & Son, Highgate.
Mr. R. Owen, Castle Hill Nursery, Maidenhead, sent a large collection
of Chrysanthemum blooms tastefully arranged (silver-gilt medal). Mr.
W. Wells, Earls wood Nurseries, also secured a similar award for a
collection of Chrysanthemums arranged in a unique manner. Mr. J. R.
Chard, Stoke Newington, had some table decorations (silver medal).
Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, made a bright display with Zonal
Pelargoniums and Chrysanthemums ; and Mr. H. Perkins, Greenlands,
Henley-on-Thames, won a silver-gilt medal for a collection of Amaryllis
in fine condition. A first-class certificate was also awarded to Mr.
Perkins for Amaryllis Charles Davis, a crimson flower with broad petals
and a whitish green throat. Mr. C. J. Waite, Glenhurst, sent some
magnificent vegetables.

Some new Chrysanthemums were exhibited before the Floral Com¬
mittee, and certificates awarded for several varieties which are
described on page 514 of this issue.

WOKHfo^theWEEK..

FRUIT FORCING.

Peacbes and ITectarlnes. — Earliest House. — The earliest house
having been closed as advised in former calendars, fire heat should now
be applied. The house ought to be freely ventilated even at night in
mild weather, only using fire heat to exclude frost until the
buds commence swelling, then 40° to 45° is quite high enough at
night, turning on the heat in the morning so as to maintain 50° by day,
with free ventilation between 50° and 55°, and full at and above -the
latter temperature, rising on bright days to 65°. Reduce the ventilation
gradually, and close between 50° and 55°, leaving a little air on at the
top of the house. Syringe the trees and every available surface morning
and afternoon until the blossom buds are showing colour, after which
discontinue syringing the trees, but sprinkle the surface of the border and
path as before, so as to maintain a genial atmosphere. The inside
borders will require to be watered with water not less in temperature
than the mean of the house, making sure that every part of the soil
is properly moistened.

Pines. — Young Plants. — Pits or small houses, properly heated and
well ventilated, are most suitable for young stock. Successional plants
often suffer irreparable injury at this season from being kept too close
and warm, the plants becoming drawn and weakly. A temperature of
55° to 60° at night, with 60° to 65° in the daytime, will keep young
plants gently growing, and they will not become weakly provided a
little air is given at the top of the house at 65°, leaving it on all day .
Do not let the temperature fall below that point, and when the sun
raises it to 75° a free circulation of air should be allowed. Maintain a
steady bottom heat of 80°. Avoid a very damp atmosphere, moderate
humidity sufficing at this season. Examine the plants once a week for
watering, applying it only when they become dry, and then give weak

620

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 1, 1893.

liquid manure in a tepid state. Keep the plants well up to the glass
without touching it, and allow them plenty of room.

Providing for Fruit in May and June. — Where the means are
limited considerable judgment and skill are required to maintain a
successional supply of ripe Pine Apples throughout the year. There is
no trouble where the successional plants can be counted by hundreds,
but where the number is more limited the difficulty is to act so as to
have the fruit come in at the right time. A supply of ripe Pines being
required in May and June and plants are not showing fruit it will be
desirable to select from those started last March which have completed
a stout growth, have a thickened base, and are now resting, being guided
in the selection by such as show the best indications of starting into
fruit when subjected to a higher temperature both at the roots and in
the atmosphere. The plants are best placed in a structure by them¬
selves, but if this cannot be afforded assign them a light position in the
house where the fruiters are swelling. A temperature of 65° at night,
5° lower in the morning in cold weather, and 70° to 75° by day will be
ample at present in the fruiting department.

Cucumbers. — Winter-fruiting Cucumber plants are suffering from
attacks of eelworm at the roots, this pest proving more disastrous than
usual. This invisible (to the naked eye) foe gives no clear indications
in the growth of the plants to an ordinary observer of the presence of
the attack until the mischief is irremediable ; but we advise subjecting
all soil, especially turfy soil and animal manures, to a temperature of
over 212°, but not so high as to burn or consume the fibry particles,
before it is used for the plants, as a preventive. This we find infallible,
but it is necessary to refrain from the use of vegetable or animal
manures afcerwards, and from any form of bone manure other than
vitriolised, and rely mainly on mineral manures for sustaining the plants
in health and fruitfulness.

Many failures, however, with winter fruiting Cucumbers arise from
attempts at their culture in unsuitable structures. Cold weather necessi¬
tates heating the hot water pipes where there is a deficiency of heating
surface to a temperature highly inimical to the plants by drying the
atmosphere more than is good for the foliage, and where the pipes are
in close proximity to the roots the soil is dried too much for healthy
growth. The consequence is the fruits become stunted and swell
indifferently, the plants falling a prey to insects. Air must be admitted
very carefully, affording a little, however, whenever a favourable oppor¬
tunity offers, but exclude it when the external air is cutting and cold.
In bright weather, and the air sharp, turn off the top heat when the
sun is powerful and likely to raise the temperature above 80°, for much
sun heat before the turn of the day only accelerates growth which
cannot be sustained. In such weather damp the house in the morning
and afternoon, closing about midday or I P.M. Do not wet the fruit or
the embryonic may damp off, and that formed become scabbed and
deformed. Water will be required at the roots once or twice a week, and
it should be equal in temperature to the mean of the house. A tem¬
perature of 60° to 65° at night, and 70° to 75° by day artificially is
suitable.

The winter fruiting plants from the August sowing, and planted out
in September, have grown to the extent of the trellis or nearly so, and
are showing plenty of fruit. Only a few for Christmas and the New
Year should be allowed to remain, and that on vigorous plants, as the
plants will need all their strength to tide over a severe period should
one occur, and fruit is most in demand during late winter and early
spring. Attend frequently to stopping and thinning, also tying the
shoots, avoiding overcrowding as one of the greatest evils. Remove
bad and decayed leaves. Mildew is unusually prevalent this season,
but it readily yields to dusting the foliage with flowers of sulphur or
painting the hot-water pipes with a little sulphur. This also kills
white fly, but aphides must be overcome by moderate fumigation on
consecutive calm evenings. Subdue canker by rubbing quicklime into
the affected parts, repeating as necessary.

Strawberries In Pots. — Although John Ruskin has proved as
susceptible of attack from mildew in many places as its prototype Black
Prince, it is highly spoken of in some quarters and grown extensively
as a first early forcing variety. Where it or Black Prince can be had
free from fungal pests there is a manifest advantage, as the fruit comes
earlier, and is higher coloured and better flavoured than very early fruit
of other varieties. The earliest fruits have commenced swelling, the
crowns and the trusses are “ peeping,” and with them tiny aphides, which
must be killed either by dusting with tobacco powder or fumigation with
tobacco, or they will increase amazingly, and fasten on and spoil the
flower buds. The temperature may be advanced a few degrees by day ;
a temperature of 50° to 55° being sufficient at night and by day in cold
dull weather. A light syringing in the early part of bright afternoons
will be advantageous to the plants. Examine the plants daily and supply
water to all those that require it, but avoid making the soil sodden and
sour by needless applications.

More plants should be placed in a house from which frost is excluded,
the decayed leaves being removed, the drainage seen to and rectified if
necessary, the surface of the soil loosened, the pots washed clean, and a
top-dressing of rich compost given. The plants will then be ready for
introducing during the next three weeks to vineries and Peach houses
being started, or a Strawberry house, assigning them a position near the
glass. La Grosse Sucr6e, Vicomtesse Hericart de Thury, President,
and Noble are suitable varieties.

Plants for introducing later on will be quite safe in their quarters
outdoors, plunged in ashes to the rim, and a light covering may be given

of dry fern or litter in severe weather, removing it when the weather is
mild. If placed in frames, the plants should have the lights drawn off
in mild weather, and in wet weather the lights should be tilted, for
the plants cannot be kept too cool, nor must any be allowed to suffer for
want of water at the roots.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

Vacant Ground. — In most kitchen gardens there is now a consider¬
able amount of ground void of crops, and whether this shall be
dug or trenched or made tidy for the winter ought to depend upon
circumstances. Some soils would be greatly benefited by being early
manured and roughly laid up to the pulverising influences of frost,
winds, sunshine, and rains. Either double digging or trenching would be
beneficial in other cases ; while in not a few instances all such operations
would be deferred with advantage to nearer cropping time. Soils differ
so greatly in their constitution that it is almost impossible to lay down
any general rules as to their proper treatment, as what would be right
in one instance might be radically wrong in another case not apparently
dissimilar.

Heavy Soils. — These naturally are of a decidedly clayey nature,
and are usually most fertile under good treatment owing to their
ability to absorb and retain both fertilising matter and moisture, but if
mismanaged they are by no means so productive as medium and lighter
soils. If there is too great a percentage of pure clay present in the
soil, an early exposure to frosts may lead to this running badly and
assuming the consistency of birdlime and the ground be very difficult of
cultivation during the rest of the year accordingly. When former
experience has shown that autumn or early digging leads to such results
it should be discontinued till such times as it has been possible to well
mix with the clayey soil a heavy dressing or repeated dressings of sand,
ashes of all kinds, burnt clay, leaf soil, decayed garden rubbish, mixed
with lime, well decayed tanner’s bark, and such like. Once such
materials get well mixed with clayey soil they will prevent it from running
together again, and gradually convert the mass into an easily worked,
very fertile soil. Have all or any of these materials collected, and later
on wheeled on to the vacant plots, dig in with forks early next spring,
or any time not long in advance of cropping, and while yet in a semi-dry
state, breaking up the clods, and well mix the additions with the clayey
soil by means of a course of chopping with two-tined or Canterbury
hoes.

Heavy loamy soils, or those which do not contain more than 25 per
cent, of clay, will usually be improved by being manured and roughly
dug during the autumn and early winter, or long enough in advance of
cropping to admit of pulverisation taking place. In some instances it
has been found to answer well to dig before midwinter, and again early
in the spring, thereby avoiding the risk of having a finely divided
surface and great tough lumps underneath. On no account should
heavy land be wheeled over, unduly trampled on, or dug during wet
weather, or when water is standing on the surface, as this would of a
certainty lead to its working very badly for at least one season, and
most probably for some time longer. Either do the necessary wheeling
over it during the prevalence of frosts, or else lay down planks to run
on. Cow manure is about the worst kind that can well be used on
heavy or clayey land, as it serves to make it still colder and more reten¬
tive. Horse stable manure only about half decayed is best for very
clayey soil. Dug in freely now it will serve to keep the ground looser,
and further act mechanically in breaking up the clay.

medium and Xlght Soils. — When either of these rest upon a
gravelly or chalk subsoil and naturally work freely without a long
exposure to pulverising influences, it is not often a good policy to dig
them now. Even if autumn or early winter digging has been found
advantageous in former years, it would be yet unwise to manure them
long in advance of cropping, as they are not sufficiently retentive to
admit of this being done without the risk of the greater portion of the
more soluble parts of the manure being washed down into the drains.
Well decayed manure from farmyards best suits these non-retentive
soils, the cow manure being most suitable for the lightest or least
retentive soils.

The summer of 1893 proved exceptionally trying to crops on medium
and light soils, their inability to retain moisture, owing to the absence
of clay in their composition, being most marked. This failing should be
remedied as far as possible in future years, a start being made at once
by giving a dressing of either marl or clay. Make no attempt to divide
the lumps, but distribute all thinly over the surface, trusting to the
action of frosts to break them down, the mixing with the soil taking
place early in the spring. This addition of clay or marl, and which
latter may be defined as a mixture of clay and lime, soon has the effect
of making light soils more retentive of moisture and fertility, and
therefore more productive at all times.

Trenchlngr. — In order to improve the depth of fertile soil, and to
certain extent be in a position to produce good crops of vegetables during
a hot dry season, trenching should be resorted to according as the
opportunities for carrying out this work properly offers. What is known
as bastard trenching consists of breaking up the ground two spits or
more in depth without reversing the positions of the surface soil and
that immediately beneath. It is both the safest and best practice in
all cases where the subsoil is of a clayey nature, and not previously
ameliorated by having a variety of decaying substances, including
strawy manure, vegetable refuse, and such like mixed with it. Bringing
up a mass of poor soil to the surface, and burying that which has

December 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

621

by long cultivation been in a finely divided fertile state, is a most
unwise proceeding. When, however, the surface soil has become
manure-sick and inert it is greatly benefited by the addition of a small
portion of the subsoil, that known as the “ shovellings,” or the loosened
portion left after the first spit has been dug out of a trench, being quite
sufficient for mixing with and correcting the surface soil. After having
been broken up repeatedly and become well mixed with a variety of
soluble and insoluble substances a clayey subsoil may be safely and
profitably brought to the surface by the process known as trenching
proper. Alluvial soils, or those that have been deposited by floods or
overflowing rivers, are all of much the same character, sometimes to a
very considerable depth, and in all such cases pay well for being
trenched, the subsoil being made to take the place of what was
previously the top spit. It need hardly be pointed out that shallow
soils resting on a very gravelly or rocky bottom cannot be deepened
by trenching, and should be ^ded to as much as possible from the
surface.

Rldg^lng- Soils. — The plan of laying garden ground up into ridges
early in the winter is largely practised in some districts, but is not
always the best course of treatment that can be adopted. In some
cases the ridged soil breaks down very finely in the spring, but in the
furrows the very opposite prevails, this being cold and sodden. Better
by far in all such instances that ordinary digging, laying the soil up in
rough spits had been done. Very stiff clayey soil may, however, in
many cases be laid up in ridges with advantage, but instead of trying to
arrange it in conical ridges it should be laid up squarely, the spits being
disposed on the top of each other much as green bricks are dried, frosts
and winds having then a good opportunity of thoroughly penetrating
the spits.

PLANT HOUSES.

Ctaryaanthemums. — Whether good bushes or large blooms are
required cuttings should be inserted where they can be obtained. It is
better to wait for a time before insertion, rather than insert growths
from the stem or poor puny cuttings. Those for large blooms if
inserted singly in thumb pots, will root freely, even quickly, when
placed under hand-glasses in a cool, airy house. When rooted under
cool conditions the plants can be grown without subjecting them to
heat. All that is needed is to protect them until they can be turned
outside. Where large bushes are needed three cuttings may be inserted
in each pot, and properly grown these will produce an enormous supply
of flowers. For this purpose only free-branching and free-flowering
varieties should be selected. The stools, after they are cut down, should
be kept in a cool, airy structure until the cuttings have been taken ;
nothing is gained by placing them in heat. The plants often die, and
the cuttings produced are weak, and sometimes fail to root.

Hydrangreas. — Varieties of H. hortensis that have been rooted in
email pots, have prominent flower buds, and the foliage has ripened
naturally, may be potted from time to time as opportunity offers. Pots
5 inches in diameter are most suitable, and the plants should be potted
so that the first leaves produced are close to the rim of the pots. These
plants do well if placed in good loam, one-seventh of manure and
sand. Old Cucumber and Melon soil mixed together will grow them
splendidly. After potting the plants should be kept in a cool, airy
house for a time, when a few may be introduced into a vinery or Peach
house that is just started, or any structure with a similar temperature.
Plants that are kept for stock may be cut close back and rested in any
cool place, and then started into growth under the conditions advised
for those that have formed flower buds. Plants of H. paniculata grandi-
flora that were potted while their leaves were upon them will have
formed some roots. The shoots may be pruned close back, leaving one
or two eyes of the last year’s wood. These plants do best if plunged
in cold frames, and allowed to start naturally into growth.

lilllum Harrlsl. — All plants that have been removed from ashes
and have turned green should be placed on shelves close to the
glass, where they will make sturdy growth. Be careful never to allow
the plants to become dry, and watch for aphides, which are very liable
to attack the plants in their points. Aphides are readily destroyed by
fumigating the house or plants with tobacco smoke, or some of the
various inventions provided for the purpose.

Cinerarias. — The latest plants of these should be transferred into
larger pots and placed in a cool airy house, where they can come forward
slowly. These, if cared for, and kept free from aphides, will be found
useful when all the earlier plants are past their best. Do not allow
plants that are well developed and throwing up their flower spikes to
be crowded together so that their foliage will damp. Water during the
early part of the day, ventilate freely on all favourable occasions, and
do not employ more fire heat than is really necessary. Clear soot
water, or other weak stimulants, should be given every other time the
plants need water. Keep the plants standing on some moisture-holding
base, or they are certain to lose their lower foliage, and if a dry
atmosphere is maintained they are certain to be attacked by aphides.

Primula obconlca. — Well developed plants will soon come into
bloom if they are introduced into a temperature of 50°. If the blooms
are required for cutting only they can remain in this temperature ; if
for the conservatory, they can be removed to that structure as soon as
they are presentable. Plants that are required for later flowering may
be kept cool in any light airy structure where the temperature does not
fall below 45° at night.

Souble Primulas. — Plants that are wanted in flower may be
placed where the temperature ranges about 50° at night. They will

soon come into flower and continue for a long time. No attempt must
be made to keep them in a close confined atmosphere, or they are
certain to damp. A moderately dry atmosphere should be maintained
with a little air on all occasions when the weather permits of it,
ventilators being opened.

Justicla flavicoma. — This much-neglected plant will make the
conservatory gay at this period of the year. When the first flowers are
over the plants should not be cut back or thrown away, for they will
flower a second and even a third time. Very frequently the second
flowering is decidedly the best. The plants may be introduced again
into warmth. When well grown the dark glossy foliage of the plant is
attractive, and the contrast is very striking when large plumes of yellow
flowers are produced.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

William Barron & Sons, Elvaston Nurseries, Borrowash, near Derby.
— Coniferm, Ornamental Plants, and Forest Trees.

Dammann & Co., San Giovanni a Teduccio, Italy. — Flower and
Vegetable Novelties.

Herb & Wulle, Naples, Italy. — Natural Curiosities, Tree, Garden,
and Agricultural Seeds.

W. Wells, Earlswood Nurseries, Redhill. — New Chrysanthemums.

APIARIAN NOTES.

Hints for Beginners.

The bee-keeper who intends to make his own hives must pay
particular attention to the following instructions. White pine is
sometimes used for hives, and it is the cheapest, but is the most
worthless and least endurable. It is much affected by the weather,
shrinking or swelling more than other woods. Where it can he
afforded yellow or red pine should be preferred. The latter does
not carry off the perspirations of the bees so well as the former,
but the ventilating floor obviates all risks of injury from damp.
Unless where boards are matched it is unnecessary that they should
be well seasoned ; but allowance should be made for shrinkage,
which is about a quarter of an inch to the foot laterally only.
Wood damped after seasoning swells to the same extent as green
wood, therefore do not apply paint nor hinge parts together until
the whole is perfectly dry, or decay is rapid, and the joint at the
hinges will be open, which causes trouble. Reject all sap wood,
and keep the heart of the wood outermost. Provide yourself with
a few proper tools.

The instructions given are intended for amateurs and not
tradesmen, as the two work on different lines. AVhere used boxes
are available they should be secured if at a moderate price, and
take care not to split the pieces when taking them asunder. Pretty
section cases and supers can be made from many kinds of used
boxes. Some of my hives are made wholly from such cases,
including ironmongery, roof, and a dozen of supers or four-
section crates, at a cost of Is. 6d. actual outlay ; paint, oil-cloths,
and wrappings to be added.

Neatness is desirable, but is not absolutely necessary ; but
accuracy in sawing is the principal point. In sawing there are three
kinds of cuts — “clearing ” the drought, “riding” the drought, and
cutting inside it. The use of the several cuts will be explained in
a future issue. In order to work accurately, templates and measurers
should be used.

Without oilcloths we should not get on very well. Summer is
the best time to make them, but where a loft is accessible old ones
may be spread flat, and with a brush given a coat of boiled linseed
oil. No other kind of oil will do. New cloths may be steeped
for several days in the oil after being washed, then hung up by one
corner and allowed to drip, reversing the position at intervals until
the oil begins to set, when they should be stretched out and sus¬
pended to dry. With these preliminary remarks I will close,
hoping to be able shortly to give further instructions with diagrams.
— A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

GARDENERS’ CHARITABLE AND PROVIDENT
INSTITUTIONS.

The Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Institution. — Secretary,
Mr. G. J. Ingrain, 50, Parliament Street, London, W.C.

United Horticultural Benefit and Provident Society. —
Secretary, Mr. W. Collins, 9, Martindale Road, Balham, London, S.W.

Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. — Secretary, Mr. A. F. Barron,
Royal Horticultural Society’s Gardens, Chiswick, London, W.

522

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 7, 1893.

correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor ” or to “ The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the stafE often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three ques>«ons at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Books (ZT. <7. C.'). — You can obtain “ Chrysanthemums and their
Culture,” by E. Molyneux, and “Vines and Vine Culture,” by
A. F. Barron, from this office. The former is Is. 2d. and the latter
58. 3d., post free.

Cherry Tree Wood (^Cherry Blossom'). — The wood of the Cherry
tree is easily worked, beau tifully grained, and takes a fine polish. It
was much sought after formerly by cabinet makers, turners, and musical
instrument makers, but is not in particular request at the present time,
as mahogany is readily o btainable in this country. Nevertheless, we
have known good prices given of late years for sound trees, especially of
the Wild Gean, which in some woods on chalk formations attains the
dimensions of Oak trees, and is very clean in growth. Consult a timber
merchant, or preferably a cabinet maker in a large way of business.

mineral Constituents of Apple and Onion (£'. W.). — The
whole fruit of Apples contains about 0 27 per cent, of ash in 100 parts
— potash, 35 ’68; soda, 26'09 ; magnesia, 8‘75 ; lime, 4'08 ; phosphoric
acid, 12'34 ; sulphuric acid, 6 09 ; silicic acid, 4 32; iron, 2'G5. Onion
ash, 0'46 per cent, in 100 parts — potash, 32 35 ; soda, 8 04 ; magnesia,
2'70 ; lime, 12'66 ; phosphoric acid, 15 09 ; sulphuric acid, 8 34 ; silicic
acid, 3'04; iron, 12’29 ; chloride of sodium, 4-49, If the ammonia¬
forming substances are consumed, how can there be any nitrogen in
plant ash ? This, of course, is not what you mean, but the albuminoid
in Apples only comprise 0'4, and the mineral matter 0'4 per cent, in
100 parts ; and the albuminoides are 1’5, and the mineral matter 0’5 per
cent, in Onions per 100 parts.

Sulphate of Copper Solution for Destroying Scale QD. H.) —

The solution advised on page 327, October 12th, for cleaning incised and
cankered wounds is far too strong to apply to the tender wood of Peach
trees for the destruction of scale. It, however, would not injure thoroughly
ripened wood, and certainly would destroy the scale, provided it was
dislocated with a brush, avoiding injury to the buds. The solution,
also, would act deterrently on the fungal germs. Try it on a few
growths first, and if that does not prove injurious, the solution can then
safely be used. For destroying the scale there is nothing better than
2 oz. each of caustic soda (98 per cent.) and commercial potash (pearl-
ash) to 2 gallons of water, applying with a brush, wetting every part.
If the wood is soft, dilute to 3 gallons ; and apply in either case at a
temperature of 120’ to 130°.

Tlie movements of Deaves (^Avlate^^r) . — You are right, spon¬
taneous movements of leaves, or those in response to some direct
irritation, are interesting. They have been subjected to close scientific
study in the case of such as the Dionsea and Droseras with surprising
results, the carnivorous plants having enjoyed a notoriety far exceeding
the “ Weather Plant,” which was so much in evidence two or three years
ago. The infolding of the leaf lobes in the Dionaea when some substance
is introduced is familiar to many now, as also is the rapid drooping of
the Sensitive Plant leaves when touched. There is, however, an occupant
of the stoves in some botanic gardens which displays a still more remark¬
able phenomenon in its leaves, and which is not nearly so well known.
This is the Telegraph Plant, Desmodium gyrans, a member of the
Leguminosse, and a native of the East Indies, and by no means a novelty.
Though Mr. Darwin and others have determined that most plants have
a spontaneous motion in their growing stems and roots, these are so
extremely gradual that they are not re.adily observed, and can only be
tested by careful experiment. In the Desmodium, however, we have a
spontaneous movement that is visible and strongly marked. The leaves
consist of three leaflets, the centre one large, oblong, or elliptical, and at
the base on each side is a small narrow leaflet, which possesses a peculiar
property. When the plant is healthy and growing these leaflets rise
alternately by a series of little jerks until they are nearly perpendicular,
and then descend in a similar way, to resume their action when the
other leaflet has gone through a similar process. This takes place
without the application of external stimulant beyond that afforded by
light or heat ; the rapidity of the movement varies greatly, however, and
in dull weather it is much reduced or ceases altogether, as it does when
the plant becomes unhealthy or old. Sometimes the motion is confined

to a few leaves, but it seems to depend chiefly on the age of the plant,
the weather, or the conditions under which it is grown. In cold or a dry
house it is much lessened, and does not continue so long.

SxposlniT Wood Ashes to Rain (71. JET.). — When wood ashes are
exposed to rain the potash and other salts are washed out, and enter the
ground beneath and around to such an extent as to prevent anything
growing on the spot for some time, though a luxuriant growth of
whatever plants may be on the margin is the consequence. If wood
ashes are placed in a tub and water poured on them, and left a few
days, the main portion of the soluble constituents of the ashes are found
in the water, and this strained off leaves a residuum of very little
manurial value ; may be tested by applying these leached ashes to one
tree and the lye to another, and noting the results. Dry wood ashes
from wood not larger than a “ cord” contained 8 J per cent, of real potash,
and 2 per cent, of phosphoric acid, or about lbs. of potash, and 1 lb.
phosphoric acid per bushel. These are worth 2s. at least, besides which
there is 10 to 15 per cent, of alkaline matter, available for converting
vegetable substances in the soil into ammonia. A peck of wood ashes
contains enough potash and phosphoric acid to support most crops on a
rod of ground, but they must be applied in a fresh state to the soil, or
if stored for future application, be sure they are kept dry. Leached
ashes either from the lye-tub or from open heaps long exposed are
hardly worth distribution. When ashes are placed in the soil their
manurial properties are not easily washed out, but they rapidly pass
from the ash heap into the soil where they are not wanted, and like the
drainings of manure heaps, represent liquid gold wasted.

Mixing Blood and Wood Ashes (^Staffordshire Cottager). —
Blood and wood ashes are rather difficult to mix, not because of the
coagulation of the blood with the wood ashes, but through the blood
being already in that state and not readily divisible. If you stir the
blood while warm until it cools, so as to prevent its coagulation, then
there is no difficulty about the mixing. The blood being caught in
a pail should be stirred briskly, and a handful of wood ashes at a time
mixed with if, continuing this until a thick paste is formed; then
turn out on a hard floor sprinkled with wood ashes, and spreading more
wood ashes on the heap, mix thoroughly with a shovel as in making
mortar, and having formed a crumbly mortar-like mass, sprinkle wood
ashes over the heap and leave to dry. When dried it will break up into
a powdery substance unexcelled as a manure for every kind of flower,
fruit, or vegetable crop. The wood ashes must be dry and preferably
heated to a temperature of 90° to 100° for mixing with the warm
blood. If the blood is allowed to coagulate, it is best to dry it
thoroughly and then grind it in a mill, as is done in manure works,
though it may be pounded on a hard floor and made fine enough for
distribution, adding an equal proportion of dry wood ashes and pure
dissolved bone, mixing, and using about 4 ozs. per square yard. Or
when the blood has clotted and is rancid, pour muriatic acid upon it at
the rate of 4 ozs. to 16 lbs. of blood, stir, and add 16 lbs. of dry wood
ashes, mixing well. When dry break up, and use as a top-dressing.
The better plan is to mix the wood ashes with the blood before it
coagulates.

Booting Chrysanthemums (Young Beginner). — You cannot do
better than insert cuttings of your Chrysanthemums at once if they are
in the condition described. All persons who grow for exhibition take
cuttings during November and December ; in fact, as early as they can
obtain them. They will not be too early for you if inserted now. It is
a good plan to insert them singly in thumb pots under hand-lights in
a cool Peach house or vinery. By adopting this method the plants
receive no check — the hotbed is unnecessary. From the hand-lights the
plants may be removed to frames and protected only from frost.
Gradually harden them, and then give abundance of air. Treated thus
the young plants are grown strong from the first. All that are intended
for bushes should be pinched when they are well rooted, and the growths
they make are generally very vigorous. When 3 inches in length pinch
the plants again. You may safely continue this practice, if neces¬
sary, until the beginning of May, when the shoots should be
allowed to extend and only branch afterwards in a natural manner,
which they may do again at the end of June or early in July. The
buds that show during August must be “ taken.” If you manage the
plants well there is no difficulty in having nine good blooms on a plant
that will be creditable to you for purposes of decoration. When blooms
are needed for cutting for filling various sized vases, however, some
naturally grown free-flowering kinds, especially Japanese, prove in¬
valuable. Do not pinch in July, only take natural breaks then.
Plants stopped in May and then allowed to grow often produce buds
in August, about the right time. Your potting arrangements are satis¬
factory.

Camellias Dropping their Buds (Tonng Beginner). — The
buds of Camellias will certainly fall if the plants are allowed to become
dry at their roots. Exhaustion will also bring about the same result.
A very dry atmosphere after the buds have formed, for even a few days,
will cause the buds to fall, or the flowers, hy the time they are half or
fully expanded. The mischief is frequently done weeks before bud¬
falling is observed. Another cause, and a very likely one in your
case, is unripened wood, if the trees grow as luxuriantly as you describe.
If these plants are fully exposed to the sun and given abundance of air
from the time the foliage is fully developed, or the wood commences to
ripen and form buds, if well watered at their roots, the buds should not
drop. All Camellias are flowering long before their proper time this
year, especially those that have been kept under glass. This is due to
the long spell of bright sunshine we have had, and the higher tempera-

December 7, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

523

ture to which they have been subjected in consequence. We do not
advise you to prune the tree, either before growth or after the growth
has been made. Retard the growth as much as you can, and allow the
plant to start growing in a natural manner. It is doubtful if they
will be as early next year, unless the plant is induced to grow soon in
the season. The roots are probably too deep, which alone would
account for strong growth, and probably the falling of the buds. We
certainly advise you to take away down to the roots the wet, sour,
exhausted surface soil. In doing so you may find that the water passes
away by the side of the walls, and the evil may be easily remedied
The soil can be substituted by good loam, one-seventh of the old rubble
you describe, a little charcoal, coarse sand, or sandstone ; broken bricks
would also be beneficial if the loam is of a fairly heavy nature. These
materials would be better than adding too much lime rubbish to the
compost. If the loam is light the amount of lime rubbish given would
be ample. Cover the roots with about 4 inches of soil ; press the latter
firm. Do not surface-dress with cow manure. If the drainage is good,
liberal supplies of water are needed ; you could scarcely give them
too much while growing. Directly the growth is maturing the
atmosphere should be gradually brought to a drier condition until the
flower buds are visible, when the syringe may again be freely used.
Examine the border from time to time by means of an iron rod. If wet
it will come out sticky, if rather dry perfectly clean. We cannot
exactly tell you how much water to give, because circumstances alter
individual cases so widely.

XTames of Fruits. — Notice, — We have pleasure in naming good
typical fruits (when the names are discoverable) for the convenience of
regular subscribers, who are the growers of such fruit, and not col¬
lectors of specimens from non-subscribers. This latter procedure is
wholly irregular, and we trust that none of our readers will allow
themselves to be made the mediums in infringing our rules. Special
attention is directed to the following decision, the object of which is
to discourage the growth of inferior and promote the culture of superior
varieties. In consequence of the large numier of worthless Ajgples and
Pears sent to this office to he named, it has been decided to name only
specimens and varieties of approved merit, and to reject the inferior,
which are not worth sending or growmg. The names and addresses of
senders of fruit to be named must in all cases be enclosed with the
specimens, whether letters referring to the fruit are sent by post or
not. The names are not necessarily required for publication, initials
sufficing for that. Only six specimens can be named at once, and any
beyond that number cannot be preserved. They should he sent on the
first indication of change towards ripening. Dessert Pears cannot he
named in a hard green state, (C'.). — 1, Bergamotte Esperen ;
2, uncertain, perhaps Napoleon ; 3, Easter Beurre ; 4, Forelle ; 5, Vicar
of Wihkfield ; 6, Rymer. (P, R. TF.). — 8, Beurr6 de Jonghe ; 9, Golden
Noble ; 10, Court-pendfi Plat ; 11, Hollandbury. (6*. E, IF). — 1,
Minshull Crab ; 2, Alfriston ; 3, WinteriGreening; (<9. N.). — 1, Allen’s
Everlasting ; 2, Local.

STames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
CA, B, F,'). — Jasminum Sambac. (L. B,j. — Kentia Belmoreana.
(ZT. E."), — 1, Davallia Mooreana ; 2, D. Mariesi. (Amateur'), — Justicia
coccinea.

OOVENT GARDEN MARKET. — December 6th,

Tb.\.DE very quiet. FRUIT.

8.

d.

s. d.

d.

8.

d

Apples, per bushel . .

• •

2

0 to 7 6

Peaches, per doz .

0

0

to 0

0

Cobs .

35

0

40 0

Plums, per half sieve

0

0

0

0

Grapes per lb .

0

6

2 0

St. Michael Pines, each . .

2

0

6

0

Lemons, case .. ..

10

0

15 0

VEGETABLES.

a.

d.

s. d.

8.

d.

8.

d

Beans, Kidney, per lb.

• •

0

3

to 0 4

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2 to 0

0

Beet, Red, dozen . . . .

1

0

0 0

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

0

Carrots, bunch . . . .

0

4

0 6

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

2

0

3

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . .

• •

2

0

3 0

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

6

Celery, bundle . . . .

1

0

1 3

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

4

8

Coleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4 0

Salsafy, bundle .

1

0

1

5

Cucumbers, dozen . .

• «

1

0

3 6

Scorzonera, bundle . . . .

1

6

0

0

Endive, dozen . . . .

1

3

1 6

Shallots, per lb .

0

3

0

0

Herbs, bunch , . , .

0

3

0 0

Spinach, bushel .

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch . . . .

0

2

0 0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

7

Lettuce, dozen . . . .

0

9

1 0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Mushrooms, punnet ..

•

0

9

1 0

PLANTS

IN POTS.

•

s.

d.

8. d.

8.

d.

8.

d.

Arbor Vitse (golden) dozen

6

0tol2 0

Ferns (small) per hundred

4

0

to 6

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36 0

Ficus elastica, each . . . .

1

0

7

6

Aspidistra, specimen plant

6

0

10 6

Foliage plants, var., each. .

2

0

10

0

Chrysanthemums, per doz.

4

0

9 0

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen 12

0

24

0

„ large plants, each

1

0

2 0

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

3

0

4

0

Dracsena terminalis.

per

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . .

6

0

12

0

dozen .

18

0

42 0

Mignonette, per doz .

6

0

9

0

Dracaena viridis, dozen

9

0

24 0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Ericas, per dozen

9

0

18 0

Palrhs, in var., each .. ..

1

0

IS

0

Euonymus, var., dozen

, ,

6

0

18 0

„ (specimens) .. ..

21

0

63

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24 0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

2

0

0

0

Ferns, in variety, dozen

*•

4

0

13 0

S olanums, per dozen . . . .

9

0

12

0

AVERAGE WHOLESALE PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.

Orchid Blooms iu variety. Chrysanthemum blooms very plentiful this season, hence
the price is very low.

s. d. s. d

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms . . 3 0 to 5 0

Azalea, dozen sprays .... 1 0 16

Bouvardias, bunch .. ..0 6 10

Camellias, dozen blooms ..10 30

Carnations, 12 blooms .. 0 6 2 0

Chrysanthemums, dozen

bunches . 20 60

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis. 0 6 2 0

Eucharis, dozen . 4 0 6 0

Gardenias, per dozen .. 2 0 4 0

Lilac (French) per bunch 3 6 6 0

Lilies of the Valley, dozen

sprays . 2 0 4 0

Lilium lancifolium, dozen

blooms . 10 30

Lilium longiflorum, per

dozen . 6 0 90

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

bunches . 40 60

Marguerites, 12 bunches .. 2 0 4 0

Mignonette, 12 bunches .. 3 0 6 0

Naroiss, Yellow (French),
dozen bunches . 3 0 4 0

8. d. s. d.

Narciss, White (French),

dozen bunches . 2 0 to 3 0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms 3 0 12 0

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches 6 0 9 0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

bunches . 40 60

Primula (double), dozen

sprays . 06 10

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches 2 0 4 0

Roses (indoor), dozen ,.06 16

„ Tea, white, dozen ..10 20

„ Yellow, dozen .... 2 0 4 0

Roses, Safrano (French),

per dozen . 09 16

Roses, Safrano (French),

per 100 16 30

Tuberoses. 12 blooms.. .. 0 4 0 6

Violets, Parme (French),

per bunch . 26 30

Violets, Czar (French), per

bunch . 2 0 2 6

Violets (English); dozen

bunches . 16 2 0

PROFITABLE LIVE STOCK.

The proverbial “ Roast Beef of Old England ” bas become
somewhat mixed under stress of Scotch enterprise and foreign
competition. It is true that certain breeds are still sufficiently
good to command special quotations at the metropolitan
cattle markets, but Scotch beef has taken the lead, and is
likely to keep it. At the Birmingham Cattle Show the
champion prize was won by the Aberdeen-Angus heifer
“ Bridesmaid,” of Benton. At Islington on the Monday
following this Show the (leading quotations were — for prime
Scotch, 6s. ; for Herefords, Is. lid. ; for Norfolks, 4s. lOd. ; for
Runts, 4s. 9d. ; and for Shorthorns, 4s. 8d. per stone of 8 lbs.
These quotations are far more significant than the Birmingham
award, for although the champion Scotch heifer was also
champion at Norwich, is a marvellously developed animal, and
weighs 16 cwt. 3 lbs. at the age of thirty-four months, yet
there were several English beasts at both Shows running the
champion very closely, Mr. Wortley’s Hereford steer weighing
16 J cwt. at thirty- one months old, being even more remarkable
for early development.

Such grand beasts are an interesting and instructive sight,
showing as they do the comparative value of the leading
breeds, but it is at the market and auction mart that lessons
for the ordinary farmer are to be had. It is there that the
failure of English breed beef in popularity and quality is
realised. Yet the fact remains that for really prime home¬
bred beasts there is always a ready market, but such beasts
are not forthcoming ; inferior animals predominate everywhere,
i It would really appear as though English graziers only finish
j beasts well for market occasionally, and that generally there
is no attempt to do so. Meanwhile Scotch beef holds the
leading place at markets, and foreign beef comes to us in ever-
increasing bulk, much of it being sold as “ Prime English ” or
*■ Best Scotch.” Returns show that of the total annual con¬
sumption of beef and mutton in this country, about a third
consists of frozen or j refrigerated carcasses from abroad, or
of cattle slaughtered at the port of disembarkation. The
moral of this fact is that inferior home-bred cattle will continue
to keep low in value, that graziers of them will continue to
obtain a bare profit, if any, and that the only profitable cattle
to rear are those sufficiently well bred and well cared for to be
really ripe for the butcher well within the second'year.

624

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 7, 1893.

The Report of the Parliamentary Committee which sat
last summer to inquire into the meat trade contains much
interesting matter, and shows particularly how in some towns
English meat is practically driven out of the market. The most
remarkable case is that of Southport, with its population of
41,500, for whom fifty-four butchers cater, yet not more than
three English-bred animals were killed during each week among
the whole of them. If Scotch beasts had preference in the
north country towns no harm would be done, but there, as well
as in the south, very much imported beef is palmed off as home¬
bred. In London, says the report, in a large west-end establish*
ment, professing to sell nothing but English and Scotch meat,
only six sides of Scotch were said to have been sold during a
whole year, the rest being American. In other shops in the city
and west-end three-fourths of the beef sold as English is said to
be American. Of five pieces of meat purchased in Kensington,
in the neighbourhood of Piccadilly and Sloane Street, two
comiietent judges declared four to be American. In each
instance the vendors declared that they kept nothing but the
best Scotch.

It is much to be desired that the report should lead to a
measure for the protection of the interests of home- reared beasts.
It is evident that there are plenty of people willing to pay well
for really prime Scotch or English beef, and if only the trade
could be placed upon a sound basis, it would be for the mutual
benefit of producer and consumer. The gains of the middleman
will be limited, and the British farmer would soon find home
markets harden ; or, in other words, prime beasts would become
much more valuable, and his interest in rearing compact beasts
of moderate size would be so apparent, that breeding and
selection assuredly must have more attention than has hitherto
been accorded them. We have no desire to see our ports closed
against foreign meat, but we do claim that in common honesty
it should be sold as such, and not be foisted upon consumers for
the superior home-bred article. Appeals for aid to the legis¬
lature on behalf of struggling farmers have been made often
enough where aid was impossible. In this matter there should
be no difficulty. When an inspector detects a farmer sending
diseased meat to London the farmer is fined heavily. Let
inspectors also be appointed to check the transactions of butchers,
and let adequate fines be imposed with all possible publicity
upon any of them who are detected in a system of fraud, which
has evidently attained gigantic proportions in many a pretentious
west-end “ establishment.”

WOEK ON THE HOME FARM.

Lambing time commences at many farms, at most where mixed
farming prevails, towards the end of the year or early in January, and
preparations must now be made to afford the flock all necessary shelter and
food. Every home farm should have its lambing yard, with a commodious
hovel on the north side, a wall or corrugated iron sheeting enclosure,
having a projecting roof, beneath which cribs are made for each ewe and
its lambs to be confined in so long as may be necessary immediately
after the lambing. Failing this, a lambing fold is made with parallel
rows of nurdles about a foot apart, the space between them being so
closely packed with litter or straw that cold wind cannot penetrate it.
Thatched hurdles will not answer for this enclosure, because the ewes
may pull out and consume the straw, but they are used for cribs inside
of and against the enclosure, and as a roof to the cribs. See that this
fold is of ample size for the requirements of the flock, and that it has a
wide^ opening on to pasture, and another opening into a smaller or
hospital fold, where ewes requiring some extra care and supervision can
be taken from the cribs. Make all openings through which the flock
has to pass large enough to prevent crowding, or a struggle to get
through.

A small clamp of Mangold and another of Swedes is made near the
fold, also a stack of Pea straw, and another of litter. If the fold is at
a distance from the homestead, it is also a good plan to have a small
store shed for crushed corn and chaff near the shepherd’s portable hut.
In all this work let the most severe winter weather of the past be your
guide, making the shelter so thorough, and the store of food on the spot
so ample, that it must be the shepherd’s fault if the flock suffers. We
have often found that it is unwise to depend upon the daily cartin<» of
food supplies to the fold. This may very well be done generally, °but
upon an emergency, such as roads being blocked with snow, it is well to
have a few days provision at hand.

See that ewes forward in lamb are kept perfectly quiet, allow no

hurried driving by dogs, keep them on firm dry pasture, have a few
racks for Pea straw placed near sheltered parts and troughs for chaff
and corn. Let the condition of the pasture be your guide as to the
use of these, but when once they are brought into use it is as well
to go on using them, as sheep are often shy of trough food at first.

Root akd Seed Stands at Islington. — T he ninety-sixth annual
Show of the Smithfield Club opened at the Agricultural Hall, Islington,
on Monday last, but not having received any reporters’ tickets we are
unable to enter into details as regards the exhibits. We understand,
however, that Messrs. Sutton & Sons of Reading had a fine display of
roots and seeds. The main feature was a collection of agricultural
roots. Mangels were to be seen in perfection, prominent being Yellow
Globe, a variety that is generally cultivated in all parts of the kingdom
year by year. This kind has again been awarded the first prize for the
best crop of Mangel, open to all England and Wales, grown in 1893.
Gold Tankard, which has the reputation of being the best Mangel for
milch cows, and Crimson Tankard are prominently represented. Among
the Swedes the most striking was Crimson King. Champion was good,
and maintained its reputation as one of the hardiest and best Swedes for
general cropping. Some exceedingly fine roots of Perfection Turnip,
a new green-top hybrid, were shown. Disease-resisting Potatoes receive
by Messrs. Sutton no less attention than roots, and on their stand there
were twelve varieties of their own introduction, all of superb quality.
Supreme, Windsor Castle, Triumph, Perfection, and Satisfaction being
seen to great advantage. Educational cabinets of valuable and worth¬
less pasture Grasses, and agricultural seeds were on view. Messrs.
Webb & Sons, Wordsley, also had a splendid stand of roots and cereals,
including grand specimens of Imperial Swede, Mammoth Long Red,
and Globe Mangel. A choice collection of Potatoes was exhibited,
together with a fine display of Grasses and Grass seeds, many novelties,
and other items too numerous to mention .

OUR LETTER BOX.

Wheat for Cows (A. B.'). — Crushed Wheat mixed with pulped
roots, or with roots and chaff, may be used for cows advantageously, or
it may form part of any mixed dietary for them. Begin with half a
gallon, mixed with other food at milking time, and let the condition and
size of each cow be your guide as to increasing the quantity. Avoid
using it alone, and if you have other corn such as Oats or Barley, a
mixture is always preferable to either of them alone. Marketable value
has come to have much influence upon this matter, and we agree with
you that it is better to use corn for farm stock than to selL it at a
ruinously low price.

Thin Pasture Fresh stable manure is unsuitable for

pasture, but if you have old manure apply at once at the rate of thirty
cartloads to the acre. This will strengthen the growth somewhat next
season, but it will not thicken the plant. The proper way to proceed with
pasture thin in plant and weakly in growth, is to cart soil (road scrapings,
old pond mud, or ditch scourings) upon it, any time during the winter, but
preferably in February. Drop the soil in small heaps at the rate of full
forty cartloads per acre. At the end of February sow broadcast as
evenly as possible over the pasture 20 lbs. per acre of renovating grass
mixture. Then spread the soil heaps, roll sufficiently to crush the soil,
follow with a bush harrow to cover the seed and mix it with the soil.
Then at once apply a top-dressing of 1 cwt. nitrate of soda, cwt.
mineral superphosphate, J cwt. muriate of potash, and ^ cwt. steamed
bone flour per acre.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamdbn Square, London.

Lat.Sl® 32' 40" N. : Loug. 0° 8' 0" W.; Altitude, 111 feet.

Date.

9 A.M.

IN THE Day.

1893.

November

fTl _2

-S g

ao;,2

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

&

and December.

S W c8

w oa 03

mam

Dry.

Wet.

Wind.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Sunday ..

26

Inchs.

29-605

deg.

46-3

deg.

44-8

S.W.

deg.

42-2

deg.

47-0

deg.
43 2

deg.

51-9

deg.

39-2

Inchs.
0 091

Monday . .

27

30-379

30-3

28-9

W.

41-1

50-2

28-1

63-2

26-2

—

Tuesday . ,

28

30-3)7

50-0

48-3

S.W.

40-9

53-2

30-4

[58-9

28-0

—

Wednesday

29

30-319

48-4

45-9

S.W.

43-1

50-0

48-0

53-1

46-0

—

Thursday . .

30

29-941

47-1

45-8

S.W.

43-9

50-9

450

58-9

41-1

0-230

Friday

1

29-750

35-9

35-7

N.

44-2

38-2

35-1

45-8

35-8

0-020

Saturday . .

2

30-432

26-2

24-1

N.E.

41-9

35-1

23-2

55-2

23-0

—

30 090

40-6

391

42-5

46-4

36-1

53-9

34-2

0 341

REMARKS.

26th. — Oontinuous rain till 3 A.M., and from 10 a.m. to noon ; overcast and damp after¬
noon ; bright night.

27th. — Fine, but slightly foggy early ; generally cloudy in morning ; bright sunshine irk
afternoon, but slightly foggy after sunset.

28th. — Pair and mild, but scarcely any sunshine.

29th. — Overcast morning ; fair afternoon but no sunshine.

30th — Pair morning ; sunshine for a couple of hours at midday, dull later.

1st. — Almost continuous rain from 0 A.M. to 9 A.M., then drizzle and occasional flakes
of snow till noon ; bright sun from 1 P.M. to sunset, and clear cold night.

2nd — Almost cloudless morning ; generally sunny in afternoon ; clear cold night,

A cool but variable week; sharp frost on the 2nd.— G. J. SYMONS.

December 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

625

:k

THINNING AND SHORTENING

FRUIT SPURS.

- X -

TTNDER the improved system of root-pruning and unchecked
U branch -extension in fruit trees, it is not unusual for the fruit
spurs to become injuriously crowded, and in consequence imperfectly
developed. When such is the case fruit trees may be a perfect
picture whilst in blossom in the spring, but the fruit exceedingly
scanty. This is frequently attributed to the inclement state of the
weather during the blooming period. Frost and excessive wet will
render perfect blossom abortive by injuring and destroying their
essential organs of reproduction before they have performed their
functions ; but this is not always the cause of barrenness and the
production of worthless fruit. It is often because the blossoms
are imperfectly formed, in consequence of the spurs being too
crowded. To allow a tree to open thousands of blossoms more
than is necessary to secure a good crop is to exhaust its resources
to no purpose just at a time when it is most needed.

It would be absurd, in our uncertain climate, to thin the spurs
to a number only just sufficient to secure a good crop of fruit ;
indeed, we should not feel safe with less than treble the number
that were necessary for that purpose. But then there are trees —
in otherwise gocd form — with ten times too many spurs, and it is
to these we would direct attention. The best results generally
follow if they are thinned a fortnight before the leaves fall, as
then the remaining spurs would be strengthened and more fully
developed by the returning sap. We are, of course, past that period
now, but the mode may be advantageously described. In performing
the operation some experience is necessary, for if done to too great
an excess, the remaining blossom buds may develop into wood
growth in the following spring, and the balance of the tree be
upset for a year or two. The trees’ growing power must be taken
into consideration, and if this is known to be unduly vigorous,
careful root-pruning must be resorted to.

We must not shorten the main branches, but let them remain
full length, or nearly so ; they will then act as safety valves to the
superfluous sap just in proportion as they approach the vertical
line. Horizontal branches do not act to any extent in this way,
hence undue vigour must be dealt with at the roots. The finest
fruits are usually obtained from spurs that lie close to the main
branches in consequence of there being fewer interruptions in the
flow of sap to the fruit ; therefore, in thinning the spurs, preference
should be given to them. Indeed, one of the main objects in
thinning and shortening the spurs is “ to keep them at home.” It
will, however, sometimes happen, especially if the spurs have been
much crowded, that the inside lowest fruit buds are not sufficiently
developed to produce perfect blossom the following spring ; in
which case a few of the outside plumper buds must be left, and
then be promptly removed as soon as the fruit is ripe the next
year.

In well managed trees spurs never attain to any great length,
as by summer pinching and autumn pruning short spurs are
obtained ; but in neglected trees they are often crowded, weak,
and long. Trees in this condition cannot be made presentable and
capable of bearing full sized, good flavoured fruit in less than three
years, and sometimes more. The flow of sap to the fruit is so
much impeded in its passage through these long gnarled growths
that the fruit is usually small, insipid, and worthless, and the tree
altogether a mere cumberer of the ground. Providing the main

No. 703. — VoL. XXVII., Third Series.

stem and branches are healthy much may be done with patience
and a judicious selection of buds in rectifying former evils, also in
bringing the tree into a profitable state in much less time than a
fruitful young tree could be produced. Those buds most distant
from the main branch should be cut off the first year, which will
have the effect of strengthening those immediately behind them,
and in many cases induce the development of fruit buds lower
down on the spur, and sometimes on the main branch at the
junction of the old spur.

If we are induced by our impetuosity to cut back the old spurs
too much the first year, these latent buds that have been excited
sufficiently to form close fruit buds, would develop vigorous
wood growths, and thus in the end we should have lost time. The
second season we may get some fairly good fruit, but we must still
avoid cutting the old spurs too hard. Unless the root-action is
very feeble we can seldom venture to cut back to the new fruit
buds on or near the main branches until the third season.

As before stated, undue vigour must be dealt with at the roots,
but we must at the same time have sufficient vigour to excite the
latent buds at the base of the old spurs. In practice we find it best
to defer root-pruning until the second season, in which case the
old spurs can be considerably reduced. — J. H. W., Leicester, Frith.

THE GARDENERS’ ROYAL BENEVOLENT

INSTITUTION.

An Appeal to Gap.denepvS in Ireland.

Ere the dying year passes and the new one comes, bringing
with it its new hopes and fresh resolutions, I venture to bring
forward a subject which has received much attention in England
from gardeners and the patrons of our art, yet seems to have been
given but scant consideration from gardeners in Ireland. Though
I hope these few remarks may be looked upon as an appeal to all
persons who are not subscribers to this noble Institution, they are
especially submitted to the consideration of my brother gardeners
in the Green Isle.

The plethora of candidates for gardeners’ situations which
obtains in our time is known to all. The years of self-deniab
burning the midnight oil, the difference of being in or of being out
of a situation, and the bitterness of waiting are known to many as
well as to me ; perhaps a few remarks coming from the pen of a
gardener to gardeners may claim that sympathy and attention
which abler pens in higher quarters have failed to attain, and
which the subject deserves.

While other trades and professions are forming and supporting
benefit societies over the length and breadth of the land, we appear
to be the only class in this age of progress content to let things
run on as best they may. All must and do recognise the
importance of our art, which began with the first man, and which
probably will only end with the last one. We cannot compel the
moneyed classes to create more gardens for gardeners, nor prohibit
young men from coming into the overcrowded field. For this evil
I see no remedy ; but, fellow workers, I do see one clearly
defined duty, one way in which we can help ourselves — viz., by
becoming members of the Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Institution.
Some gardeners may, indeed some have, met me with the remark,
“ Oh, I may never need the bounty.” True, 0 friend ! I trust
you never will. Your remark is not heartless, only thoughtless.
We are not a selfish class, but do not refuse to “ help a worn and
weary brother pulling hard against life’s stream.”

Do start this new year by sending a guinea to the Secretary.
I hear your remark, “A guinea is a guinea.” V®®)
something more to a gardener. Our guineas are heavy with days
of toil and nights of thought. I know it, and there are so many
ways for them, as a rule so many olive branches in the gardener’s
cottage, though there may be none in the castle ; you are perchance

No. 2359.— VoL. LXXXIX,, Old Series.

526

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 14, 1893.

in the mid-day of life, and the evening yet seems so far off, and
the future pregnant with so many possibilities. We have so much
to bother us, so much to cope with, ever-increasing worries, these
scientists with their microscopes ever and anon finding out some
new bug where no hug should be, and so we go on digging, planting,
sowing, reaping, so busy.

“ Well doing is our wealth.

Our mind to us an Empire is
While Grace alfordeth health.”

but “ unerring nature ” at last silently but forcibly tells us we
have had our day, the evening of life is at hand. Dame Fortune,
the fickle jade, has not perhaps realised the possibilities of long
ago, and perchance after all those precious guineas, sown annually,
may not only have helped “the worn and weary brother,” but
return to us increased an hundredfold,

I need not go into details of the Institution ; all that will, I
am sure, be willingly given by Mr. Ingram, the Secretary, 50, Par¬
liament Street, London, to those who do not already know. Do
you not think that amongst the 156 aged gardeners or their widows
now on the pension list, that there is not amongst that number
some who have thought and made the remark about not needing
it that I have supposed you to make, and have lived to find “ the
bread then cast upon the waters ” returned to them again ? Are
there, beyond the small amount of self-sacrifice, any good or valid
reasons why you should not subscribe to it ? I hope to have made
clear some reasons why you should.

In the “ Horticultural Directory ” there are some 300 names
of gardeners in Ireland, and in the last report of the Institution
there are fifteen — please note, but fifteen !— gardeners subscribing
to it from Ireland. Now I take it that he whose name appears in
the “ Directory ” is of more or less prominence in the gardening
world, and that there is no name there but what is worthy of being
there, so I respectfully and earnestly say that all those names
should be found, and are worthy of a place in the report of that
noble institution founded in 1838 for the benefit of aged gardeners
or their widows ; and should it never be needed by yourself you
will at least have the unalloyed pleasure of helping some old friend
to whom Fortune has been less kind by giving him the votes at
your disposal on becoming a member. — E. K., Dublin.

CITY CARDENS: PAST AND PRESENT.

One of our modern authors, who has drawn fancy pictures of
the future, has suggested that the City of London may some day
undergo a pleasing transformation, and that groves or gardens may
appear in the place of huge warehouses and busy offices. This is
to happen by much of its business being relegated to the suburbs,
while some of it is carried on underground, so that the surface of
the City may be dotted over with only a few buildings, and present
a broad space available as a place of meeting or promenade, to be
intersected perhaps by an electric railway. As yet there are no
signs of this change coming about, but much has been done of late
for the improvement of those small spaces in the City which bricks
and mortar have not covered, and most of which, not many years
ago, were scenes of desolation, neglect, or even filth. They were
closed mostly to the public — which was quite as well — now some of
them are opened free, and turned into gardens ; others, still kept
private, have also been improved by the introduction of shrubs
and plants. Even yet much may be done to make the best of
these generally small gaps amidst the busy streets; several, at
present inaccessible to visitors, might be thrown open, and many
more shrubs and trees planted. It is found that the number of
trees which will live, flourish we can hardly say, in the City
atmosphere is larger than was formerly supposed. Of course a
serious disadvantage we have to contend with is the destructive
propensities of the host of boys employed about London’s centre
who frequently commit damage from pure mischief if trees and
shrubs are accessible, but I am glad to find that caretakers of city
gardens report an improvement recently. Also, we are told
London trees suffer from the conduct of climbing and pugnacious
cats, a nuisance not limited to the metropolis.

We have no pictures extant showing the City as it was during
the Middle Ages, nor even in the times of the Stuarts, but, by
d^cription, much of it had fora long time a semi-rural appearance.
There were rows of trees, some for shade or ornament, others of
fruit-bearing kinds ; flower-plots and gardens of herbs attached to
many of its mansions, also patches of ground upon which vegetables
were grown. A large number of the London citizens and merchants
had a ta,ste for gardening, and as they could not obtain the needful
space within the walls, as early as the fifteenth century some of
the citizens hired or bought land in the east and north of London,
where they cultivated plants for use or amusement, many of these

being situate along the City Road. In the reign of Elizabeth they
were beginning to go still further north, and form gardens about
Hogsden, or Hoxton, and Cantelowes, the old name for what we
now call Kentish Town. Both the City of London and its vicinity
were favourably situated for horticulture, owing to the numerous
little hills and sheltered valleys below them, while the soil was
refreshed by the course of winding streamlets, long dried up, which
ran from the Middlesex uplands into the Thames.

The warmth of the City favoured the growth of some plants,
no doubt, and until the seventeenth century, or about that period,
no coal was burnt in the metropolis, so the atmosphere was free
from those carbonaceous particles which clog the pores of leaves and
stop the development of buds. Evelyn, writing in the seventeenth
century, refers to the fine orchards there were near the Barbican,
a well-known tower on the old Roman wall (presumably these
orchards were just beyond, not within the City), and he notes the
fact that when the supply of coal from Newcastle was suspended,
owing to the Civil War, a much larger yield of fruit was obtained
than had been known for some years. He proceeds to comment
upon the objection to sea coal, not only as being hurtful to
vegetation, but as a cause of colds, coughs, and other diseases.
Actually in the City, however, there were many fruit trees, some
of which bore fruit till they were cut down to make room for new
streets. St. Martin Pomary, in Ironmonger Lane, a church destroyed
by the Great Fire, was said to have received its name from the
Apples that grew around its site. Vines on the walls of some of
the houses of the nobles yielded good crops of fruit, and it was
observed that the Fig seemed to thrive in the London air, and
Mulberry trees were planted here and there in City gardens ; two
of these, of great size, near Ludgate Hill, bore fruit till the reign
of George II. Almost in the shadow of St. Paul’s Cathedral,
even when the Stuarts began to reign. Ivy Lane was green, from
the specimens of that plant which covered the houses ; and the
Drapers’ Company had a large garden in Throgmorton Street.
Others of the City companies had gardens attached to their halls,
and in several of these they grew Roses, Gillyflowers, and the few
flowers besides which adorned old English gardens.

A little way outside the City proper, gardens there were that
yielded an abundance of Roses during the seventeenth century. In
Eald or Old Street, St. Luke’s, was a rosery of two or three acres,
and near it a nursery planted with the best kinds of fruit trees
then known, from which plenty of fruit was obtained. In Ely
Place, Holborn, there was a vineyard, and the garden was famous
for its Strawberries, while the Roses were so abundant there that
the flowers were measured by the bushel when gathered to be paid
as a yearly perquisite to Bishop Cox, after he had surrendered to
Queen Elizabeth this property long held by the Bishops of Ely.
One of the first gardens in which a large collection of exotics was
grown, and which testified to the skill and research of Master
Gerard, was situate on the slope of Holborn, and the now
unattractive Saffron Hill, Clerkenwell, was formerly yellow with
the bloom of this much-esteemed plant. Out in the East of
London, quite in sight of its ancient Tower, were gardens in which
Kale and other vegetables were raised for consumption in the City.
Goodman’s Fields was no fiction when Stow wrote about London ;
there was a farm near the Minories, and cattle grazed along the
fields. Subsequently this was cut up for garden plots. Prescot
Street, close by, is said to have been originally Peascod Street, from
the Peas planted on the ground. West of the city, the now
curtailed Temple Gardens offered citizens a pleasant evening
resort, and the palaces of the Strand had long gardens reaching to
the Thames. — J. R. S. Clifford.

WINTER IN A SCOTTISH MANSE GARDEN.

Of all the seasons winter is generally supposed to be the least
inspiring by reason of its prevailing barrenness of aspect, yet it is
not altogether destitute of inspiration. It has, indeed, infinitely
more life and energy than outwardly appears ; for are not the
seeds of summer’s luxuriance steadfastly growing, invisibly to the
vision, beneath the inglorious blackness of the winter earth ? Does
not Nature tell us what Revelation declares — that what we
sow in the seemingly lifeless ground is not quickened or vivified
by the subtle, mysterious, reanimating elements unless it die ?

We have now so many floral gradations, flowing onwards
unceasingly and dying into each other, as wave into wave on a
boundless sea, that even during the so-called desolation of winter
the earnest horticulturist can never realise that the beauty which
waited upon his art in fairer seasons has utterly departed, leaving
him to mourn the glory that has fled. His hopes, which seemed to
fade in November with the last autumnal Rose, are rekindled
when the winter Jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum), as if to assert
proudly that Nature is not dead, bursts suddenly into bloom.

December 14, 1893 ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

627

Nothing is at present more gladdening to my vision than the
picture presented by this marvellous flower, surviving the fiercest
influence of the recent frosts, and fearlessly confronting with all its
gentle beauty the cruel northern blasts.

Hardly less consoling to the worshipper of Nature amid the
storms of winter are the Aconite and the Snowdrop, the latter of
which, as if resolved to become the predecessor of the former this
season, is already above the ground. It will, I anticipate, be in
flower in my garden at least a month earlier than it was last year.
Another gem which promises to bloom prematurely is Sutton’s
Anemone, somewhat resembling A. fulgens (better known as the
Scarlet Windflower) in appearance, but of larger dimensions and
more lustrous hue. It is, I can certify, a very distinct develop¬
ment, and a precious acquisition. The Glory of the Snow
(Chionodoxa Luciliae) has not yet announced its ever-welcome
advent, probably because I planted it so late. But, on the other
hand, I have already flowers not too large or lustrous on Helle-
borus niger, the Christmas Rose. I am not without hope that as
the season advances these will improve.

Roses have lasted for a long time this year. I cut my last
bouquet, and a 'splendid one it was, on the 14th of November,
from Baroness Rothschild, Pride of Waltham (also the pride of
Kirkmaiden Manse), Ella Gordon, Jeannie Dickson, an Irish
beauty, derived from the venerable Baroness and Marie Finger,
and combining the characteristics of both ; Perle des Jardins, well
worthy of such a name ; Prince Arthur, a darker and more velvety
G^neralJacqueminot, and a native of Colchester ; and the snow-
white pendulous Souvenir de S. A. Prince. If this certificate in
favour of those exquisite varieties of the Rose is not absolutely
eloquent or impressive in expression, it is at least sincere. —
David R. Williamson.

SAXIFRAGA BITERNATA.

This fine species is seldom met with, though it cannot be con¬
sidered a new plant. It belongs to the section Nephrophyllum, of
which the best known representative is the common S. granulata.
All the species composing this section are deciduous, and of a more or
less bulbiferous habit. S. biternata has, as will be seen from the
accompanying engraving (fig. 76) very distinct biternate leaves, which
form fine tufts of bright green colour. The flowers are pure white,
comparatively large, and are borne on short stalks. Like the other
members of the section, S. biternata prefers a damp shady position in
sandy peaty soil. It is a native of Spain and Algeria. The illustration
has been prepared from a plant that flowered in the Royal Gardens,
Kew, last spring. — A. B.

THE FRUIT KEEPING QUESTION.

I CANNOT at all bring my mind to the same conclusion on this
matter as Mr. Iggulden (page 437), Mr. Cheal, and Mr. Pearson
(page 488) have brought theirs. Nothing is easier than to set
up a theory and to sustain it, even though it may be radically
incorrect, when we are faced by a problem that it is difficult to
solve. One speciality of all the large fruits soft and thin of
texture that have been found so abundantly this season, and then
have so suddenly collapsed, is that so far from being filled to
overflowing with sap, they have all been exceptionally lacking in
sap or juice. What proof is there furnished that there has been
any such rush of sap as is here referred to ? Has any grower
found this autumn that trees have made unusual wood growth
because of this “ overflow of sap ?” or, to accommodate this pleasing
theory, did it all concentrate its rush into the fruits and not into
the wood ? All plant physiology tells us that the leafage is the
great sap-attracting force, and that did this rush after the autumn
rains but have taken place then we must have seen it evidenced in
an unusual autumn wood growth. That, however, was not so.
There was nothing at all abnormal in the wood growth of fruit
trees anywhere this autumn, but there is ample evidence that this
sudden collapse of fruit began before the autumn rains occurred.

“N. H. P.” (page 508), also oddly enough jumps to the sap
theory conclusions with a real rush. “ Pears, the early ones, have
been the greatest trial ; gathered one day they seemed to be decayed
the next,” this, too, long before we had any considerable rainfall.
If the early Pears before rain came thus went, is there anything
remarkable that the later ones followed suit as speedily ? Then
what does he say about late Apples? “These are keeping well,”
and yet if the rush of sap theory is to have effect, these should,
having to endure so much more of it, have suffered equally with the
others.

There were some localities where prior to Apples and Pears being
gathered there was not enough of rainfall to influence the roots.

In these districts the fruits have gone as early and as badly, if
not worse, than where there was early and heavy rainfall. Depend
upon it we have not in our fruit suffered from the autumn rains.
Their influence on the fruits were inappreciable. The impression
seems to be that roots are like a sponge, which sucks up every drop
of water speedily. No evidence has been afforded that roots did
anything of the sort in the autumn, and indeed there is no proof
that the autumn rains, those prior to the end of September, were
anywhere in sufficient force to reach the roots of trees, or to
materially influence them. The bulk of the heavier rains came in
October, and then the greater portion of our finest Apples and
Pears had been gathered. No doubt the abnormal heat and drought
of the season has wrought all the trouble. Through lack of root

FIG. 76.— SAXIFRAGA BITERNATA.

moisture the fruits were imperfectly formed, they lacked juice and
substance. They more resembled forced Apples and Pears in
texture and in method of production. We may grope as in darkness
after shadows, as a drowning man catch at straws, but we shall
never be able to escape from the conclusion that not the refreshmg
autumn rains, but the abnormal heat and drought which preceded
is the cause of all our hardy fruit troubles. — A. D., Surrey.

In reference to the remarks of Mr. Iggulden (page 437) I have
looked over the fruit room, and find our large collection (some 200
varieties) on the whole keeping well. It must be borne in mind
that this year we are at least four weeks earlier than usual in the
ripening of nearly all fruits ; and, as a natural result, the August
and September kinds of Apples are nearly all past, though in an
ordinary year we keep them till January. Potts’ Seedling, Ringer,
Cellini, Professor, and Manks Codlin, are still good and sound, also
the Old Hawthornden ; but the extra sixe fruit of the large-growing

628

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 14, 1893.

sorts, having reached an abnormal size this year, could not be
expected to keep well. All the largest specimens are nearly past.
Warner’s King, The Queen, Queen Caroline, and Codlins are the
only kinds which, as a whole, are not keeping well. On the other
hand, the Apples that require a warm time are very grand in colour
and size, and Calville Rouge, Calville Blanche, Calville Malingre,
Sturmer Pippin, Clark’s Late Pippin, Royal Russet, the Nonpareils,
the race of Pearmains, and Reinettes, are very sound, and look
like keeping well. I would caution the public not to be led away
by the past hot season. Not only was it exceptionally warm, but
the spring was so genial that the fruit never had a check. Though
it did not make much progress in the drought, it very rapidly
swelled when the rains came in May and June, and in this way had
a month’s start. These circumstances may not occur again for
many years.

We have had the American varieties in our nursery for twenty
years, but with the exception of Wealthy, Melon, and Mother
Apples they have never been of any value outside. Northern Spy
never fruited at all. No doubt the “ Americans ” we have will
keep, but that is of no use if the quality is second-rate, and from
present appearances our British sorts will be as good late as the
Americans. We have in very fine condition Wagener, Melon,
Peck’s Pleasant, Fallawater, Wealthy, Mother ; but King of
Tomkins County, Twenty Ounce, and Washington are a little
past ; and Baldwin is very inferior ; Newtown Pippin, small, but
of plump texture, and just changing colour ; New Rock Pippin,
good.

Since writing the above I have seen Mr. Cheat’s sensible remarks
(page 488), and concur with him, that we cannot do better than
plant our own tried kinds. Our fruit room is on the soil, and we
keep this damp, thus preventing that shrivelling which is often so
prevalent where too dry an atmosphere is kept. After the fruit
room we will turn to the trees, and now that the leaf is off a little
we can see the bristling fruit buds and the dark brown wood
ripened to the tips, which gives us hope for next year. We have
heard no complaints among the large growers as to bad cases of
decaying in stores, and generally growers are well satisfied with the
prices which have ruled for really clean well sorted fruit. Wagener
Apples, as grown here, are finer than the Canadian examples shown
at the Drill Hall, but at present they have a distinct Quincey
flavour. — George Bunyard, Maidstone.

The general complaint, as Mr. Iggulden says, is that Apples
keep badly this year. No doubt this is to a great extent caused by
the large amount of saccharine in the fruit. This is easily observ¬
able in the large number of cider fruit, which I convert into
cider. The juice of nearly all varieties, when tested with the
sacebarometer shows 10 per cent, and more than their usual
quantity of saccharine. At the same time, when estimating the
time of ripening Apples and Pears, it must be remembered that
the season 1893 has been quite a month earlier all through, both in
time of blossoming, setting fruit, ripening fruit on trees, and,
therefore, maturing later sorts in store. However, in cool fruit
rooms and when the fruit was left to mature well on the trees I
have no fear but what the late sorts will keep well. No doubt
in certain cases the fruit did get sunburnt, some of the softer
fleshed varieties especially. I quite agree with Mr. Iggulden that
we can limit our varieties too much. It is always observable that
seasons will suit a variety which will not when others usually
prolific fail, and the same also applies to localities. At the same
time it is folly for market purposes growing too many sorts.

As regards American sorts, I believe they are usually better
keepers than ours ; this season has suited them, and they are
much finer than usual ; but it does not follow that it would be wise
to cultivate them generally. Such sorts as Newton Pippin, Bald¬
win, Northern Spy, and others will never pay to cultivate in this
country. Amongst the best are American Mother (grand for a
warm soil), Wealthy, King of Tompkins County, Rhode Island
Greening. These, I think, are worthy of extended cultivation.
J onathan is a good keeper but poor bearer. I have added about
fifty of the newer American varieties to my trial plantation, pro¬
cured direct from America and selected as those sorts most highly
spoken of by the leading fruit growers there. Whether they
will prove as good in our climate is a question which can only be
answered b} years of trial, but as a rule I find an Apple does not
retain the reputation it does in the country of its origin. — John
Watkins, Pomona Farm Nurseries, Withington, Hereford.

I HAVE read with interest the articles in the Journal of
Hortic'dture on the keeping of Apples this season. I quite agree
wirh '■ A. D.” (page 465), that in a season like the past, our
ordinary methods of keeping Apples are not the best. The advice
as to tha stacking of Apples outdoors is worthy of being put into

practice. I generally select a dry plot of ground where I intend to
stack the Apples, and spread clean Wheat straw from 1 to 2 inches
thick on the surface. The Apples are placed on the straw and
formed ridge shape, like Potatoes, all bruised and small sized fruits
being placed on one side for immediate use. After forming the ridge
I cover the Apples with clean straw, and bank up with soil, fixing
a 2-inch drain pipe at intervals on each side to let out moisture and
admit a current of fresh air. During frosty weather the mouth of
the drain pipes can be easily closed by being filled with dry bracken.
I have 50 bushels of Apples stacked in this manner, and I am
confident from the results of past experience that the fruit will
well repay me for any extra labour, and will keep far better this
year than others will in an ordinary fruit room. The Apples I
usually store thus are for use after Christmas.

Much fruit is yearly lost by careless gathering. Only men who
can thoroughly be depended upon should be allowed to perform
the work. The practice of shaking down fruit because it cannot
be reached without a little exertion on the part of the fruit
gatherer should be deprecated. On the whole my Apples, both in
the fruit room and those which are stacked, are keeping well.
Those produced from trees in the orchards are very firm, especially
so from trees planted on the hillsides facing north and east. The
late Mr. T. A. Knight had his orchards established on ground
facing all aspects, and the wisdom of his so doing is fully apparent
in that we generally secure, no matter what the season, an abundant
crop of Apples for home consumption. Our orchards are not
planted with a few sorts, but with trees of many well tried varieties
known to suit the soil and climate, so that if one variety fails,
others yield a crop of fruit.

I quite agree with Messrs. Iggulden and Cheal that there is
some danger of too few varieties being planted. My advice is
plant many trees of early and late varieties which are known to suit
the soil in different parts. Beauty of Kent with me is sound at
present, also Blenheims, King of the Pippins, Jefferson’s (Devon
Red), Hollandbury, Mere de Manage, Reinette du Canada, Golden
Noble, Goff, and Wyken and Ribston Pippin. I have said nothing
about Dumelow’s Seedling, Northern Greening, and other late
varieties. Those who are fortunate enough to have a good
supply of late Apples will be able to realise good prices for their
fruit. It has been a sad sight this season to see so much fruit
wasted because fancy prices could not be obtained. — John
Chinnery.

Cirrhopetalum ornatissimum.

This is a beautiful little Indian Orchid, second only in size and
interest to the new C. Colletti, to which it is closely allied. The
former was introduced from Sikkim in 1882, when it was named
by Reichenbacb. It first flowered, says Mr. W. Watson in the
American “ Garden and Forest,” at Kew in 1887, and a picture of
it was published in the “Botanical Magazine,” t. 7229. A plant
of it was exhibited in flower by Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., at a
recent meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society, who awarded
it a first-class certificate.

It has four-angled pseudo bulbs springing from long creeping
rhizomes, a leathery leaf 4 to 6 inches long, and a graceful scape
8 to 12 inches long bearing an umbel of flowers, each 4 inches long,
including the tails of the broad curiously twisted sepals, which are
yellow, lined with dots of purple ; the short petals are each tipped
with a brush of red palese ; the labellum is small, tongue-like and
coloured purple-black. Cirrhopetalums are finding general favour
with English cultivators, being easy to grow in a stove, free
flowering, and exceptionally interesting in flower structure.

Odontoglossum crispum.

A CORRESPONDENT writes to a foreign contemporary that the
best varieties of Odontoglossum crispum have been found, so far,
in a comparatively small range between the fourth and fifth
degrees of northern latitude on the western slope of the eastern
Cordilleras, and at an elevation of 6000 to 7000 feet. The plants
grow higher up the mountains, and farther north and south ; but
when found at an elevation of 9000 feet they are smaller, with
more decidedly pear-shaped bulbs, which shrivel a great deal when
they are dried off. At the elevation of 9000 feet the temperature
sometimes falls to 42° Fahrenheit, while at 6000 the thermometer
never registers less than 55°.

December 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

529

O, crispum is fond of light and air, and, therefore, does not
grow in the dense woods, but on the edges of openings, where it
can receive sunlight and enjoy the breezes. This is why it seems
to follow the little streams and gullies in the mountains which
apparently split the forests open. Jt grows on the thick limbs and
crotches of large trees, such as the Chinonas and Melastomas, and
the trees upon which these Orchids are found are cut down
without mercy, and the plants are torn off and shipped away.

Cattleya citrina.

Relative to the remarks upon Cattleya citrina, by “ C.”
(page 505), I would like to state what has been my experience with
that fastidious Orchid. I once had charge of some plants of it
fresh from the nursery, evidently only newly placed in small pans.
The pseudo-bulbs were perfectly upright, but as the plants com¬
menced to grow, the growth described a half-circle, and when
about 1.^ inch long were something like a half-moon. The
following year they resumed their old habit of growing downward.
— F. Tugwood.

Ix reply to your correspondent “ C.’s ” inquiry (page 505), with
regard to the downward position of Cattleya citrina, my
experience is that it grows much stronger when placed in shallow
pans, and consequently produces finer flowers and more freely.
Although placed in pans in the upright position, the next growth
made will assume its natural position downwards. When so
cultivated, the growing point should be placed close to the
edge of the pan, the growth is then unimpeded, and its pretty
sweet-scented flowers are seen to the best advantage. — W. H.
Stephens.

Your correspondent “C.” (page 505) asks about growing
Cattleya citrina. It grows naturally downwards ; if it be placed in
a basket with the pseudo-bulbs upright, it soon grows over the side.
I have more than a hundred, all in perfect health and vigour,
some of which I have had more than twenty years. They are
growing on a great variety of materials, all nearly equally healthy,
whether on cork, several kinds of bark. Oak root. Teak baskets,
stages made of split pieces of Oak or Laburnum, Acacia, bundles
of Yew branches tied together, or others also. I think perhaps I
like the Yew branches better than anything. Of course, I generally
tie them on with the pseudo- bulbs pointing downwards. I never
tried them in a pot with peat and sphagnum ; but I should think
there hardly could be a worse way of growing them. Like most
Mexican Orchids, they thrive in an airy greenhouse or vinery, but
not in an Orchid house. — 0. W. Strickland.

JUDGES JUDGED.

As you say your pages are open to any explanation regarding this
matter (page 503), I shall like to give my opinion. I do not say the
Judges were correct or not in their awards, but as to the charge you
make against the Committee not appointing competent Judges is not
correct. I know for a fact that the Judge appointed for this particular
class is one of the best in the south. But what of that ? He telegraphed
to the Secretary the night before the Exhibition, stating his inability to
act. I think you and your correspondent ought to have known the
whole truth about this matter before giving your verdict of guilty
against the Committee. — Berks.

[We certainly did not pronounce the Judges guilty of incompetence.
We carefully refrained from doing anything of the kind. The Com¬
mittee are wholly and solely responsible for that verdict. The only way
of ascertaining the “ whole truth ” was by inviting information, and we
are obliged by the quota supplied by “ Berks.” Perhaps he could
supply more.] _

The article respecting this in last week’s Journal is very instructive,
and shows very plainly that committees cannot be too careful in
selecting judges, that, of course, is taking it for granted that one
“ expert” is more than equal to the three judges in question. A similar
case came under my notice during November. The exhibition was not
a small one, as may be seen when I mention over £30 were awarded in
one class for cut blooms. Two sets of judges were appointed, one pair
to adjudicate on the cut blooms, the other the miscellaneous plants, as
well as the groups of Chrysanthemums. Of these latter there were nine,
and these were classed “ for effect ” and “ quality of blooms.” The
judges who awarded the prizes to the groups, considering their work
finished, left the exhibition. It was then discovered that the certificate
of the N.C.S. should have been awarded to the best group in the show.
The judges (one of whom was an expert) who officiated on the cut
blooms were asked to make the award, and they proceeded to do so.
The certificate fell to a second prize group, much to the discomfiture of
the secretaries and committee. This plainly showed some persons had
erred in judgment. To get out of the difficulty, the certificate was
ultimately awarded to a non-competitive group of well grown plants.
The mistake apparently was in having really good “ all round ” and

practical gardeners who were not Chrysanthemum experts as judges
for the groups. I would like to add the committee were apprentice
hands, this being the society’s second year of existence. — Visitor.

Unless committees of flower shows are always prepared to submit
disputed awards of judges to some court of appeal it is most obvious
that the old formula, “ the judges’ decisions are final,” must be adhered
to both in spirit and in letter. A graver violation of their own law
could hardly have been conducted than was that act referred to in your
leader of last week. That a committee should first deliberately
select certain persons to act as judges at their show, men whom
it would have been a complete condemnation of the competence
of the committee, if incompetent themselves, and then to practically
admit that they were incompetent by employing “ an expert ” to re¬
point the flowers in the disputed class, was one of the most inconceiv¬
able insults ever inflicted on judges, that is to say if it were done
as alleged by your correspondent. I do not know who the judges
were.

But who was the “ expert,” and what special qualifications did he
possess that were not possessed by the Judges? Is it a case where a
Committee obtains the assistance of local men on the cheap,
and finds that such help is dear in the long run ? or is it a case of
securing the best man obtainable at reasonable charges ? This should
be made known, although neither between the former would justify
the Committee for one moment in withdrawing confidence from their
Judges after the awards had been made, and in inflicting upon them the
grossest of insults.

It is, it must be held, imperative in every case — except where
Committees thoughtlessly admit of appeals to some other authority than
the regular Judges— that the decision ol these officials must be final,
and without appeal, except, of course, in some proved case of fraud,
which is of a very different nature. To open the door to indiscriminate
appealing would be to evoke all the wildest and fiercest passions of
human nature, and to convert flower shows into pandemoniums.

But, after all, the “ expert’s ” pointing proves nothing. It simply
shows, if anything, that it is utterly impossible to establish any code
of pointing that shall in all cases be infallible, for the simple reason
that the code has to be in all these cases determined by diverse people,
I will wager that if a dozen “ experts” had followed the Judges in this
particular instance that no two would have pointed alike. If anyone
doubts let them test a case next season, and note the result. It is so
easy to see, did we admit the process of “ judging the judges,” that we
should be landed in chaos, whilst in theory I see no reason whatever
why the points awarded to each flower might not be made known to the
exhibitors, and specially the full number of points awarded to each
exhibit. I fully understand that in practice it might lead to an intoler¬
able nuisance. It is a degradation of exhibiting that some dissatisfied
exhibitors should hang about their exhibits and wrangle and complain,
and exhibit so much of the worst aspects of human nature. This sort of
thing it is feared the publication of individual pointing would largely
increase. So much yet has to be learned from Dean Hole’s Kose book’s
adjuration „

Be eacli, pray God, a geatleman.”

— D.

Your leading article (page 503) deals so fully with the matter of
exhibitors’ protests, that little else is left to be said. Year after year I
am the more convinced that judging by points where the stands of
blooms are close in merit is the only just method of awarding the
prizes.

At an important show where I was engaged during the last month
valuable prizes were offered for twenty-four Japanese blooms. At
least five of the competing stands were close in point of merit. After
the public were admitted a well known Chrysant’nemum judge remarked
to me after well examining the exhibits in this particular class, “ I am
sure the blooms here are close to-day, would you mind telling me what
difference separated the first and second stands ?” “ Certainly,” I

answered, and turning to my notes replied, “ 3J points.” The question
and answer occupied less than one minute. How could the difference
be noted so quickly by any other method ? Some judges favour what I
term the comparison method. Instances have occurred this year where
exponents of this method have officii.ted, and upon being appealed to
civilly to state the difference between certain stands, replied curtly,
“ That’s my business.”

It cannot be said that the blooms placed first by the “ expert ”
(page 503) were of high excellence, or else this individual pointed them
low. Forty-eight Japanese blooms of good quality should give at least
195 points, and when extra good in all respects twenty points more
would not be out of the way high pointing. My opinion of awards
made is that the adjudicators should be in a position to give a
reason for their decision, and when this can be clearly done seldom are
the judges at fault. It is those persons who can give no tangible
reason why one stand of blooms is supsrior to those in another that make
errors.— E. Molyneux.

Possibly those who are always “judges ” will be those who trouble
themselves the least about your leader. Yet, as a rule, judges are, I
believe, strictly honourable men ; but though honourable men, they are
men, and therefore fallible. Those who, like myself, occasionally act in
that diflflcult and by no means to be desired capacity will perhaps think
more about the incident therein mentioned.

580

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 14, 189J.

On the part of the judges there is very much to be said. There are
rules about “ the tents being cleared for the judges ” at a certain hour,
which should be just as binding as “ the decision of the judges is final.”
One is as much a regulation of the show as the other. Yet, where do you
see it carried out ? and who is the Hercules that is to sweep this Augean
stable clean? Why are the judges to have the time at their disposal
(generally utterly inadequate) cut short by the breaking through of one
rule, whilst another regulation may not be interfered with ?

In judging Roses there is no doubt that the verdict given by the
judges at noon may often be considered unsound by many at 4 p.m.
The judges, however, have to judge flowers as they are, not as they may
be a few hours hence ; but in the case of Chrysanthemums there is a
lasting power the Rose possesses not, and in the afternoon judgment
may be as easily settled as at the earlier time. Many years ago, I
think nearly half a century, when reporting for your pages a large
West of England Show, I noticed what I considered errors in judging.
One of the exhibitors, whom I knew only by name, somehow fixed the
report on me, and was exceptionally indignant, not that I cared an atom
for the gentleman’s spleen. Well, in that report I suggested that
another judge should judge the judges. The idea was scouted, but
here at this Exhibition something of the kind seems to have been
done, if your correspondent is accurate in his statement.

My idea was this. We — judges, exhibitors, committee — are all liable
to error, there is nothing infallible about us. Why should we ape it?
Assuming, then, that judges may make mistakes — and sometimes,
recollect, it may be an accidental error of copying on the card the
wrong number of the exhibitor — why should not another judge scan
the verdict before its being sent to the secretary’s tent, and detecting
what he may consider an error, tap his brother judges on the shoulder
and say, “ Come, just point over these two stands with me? ” It is well
known that stands may be so close together that points do not separate
them, and the judges are forced to take setting up into account to
decide ; these are not the cases where dissatisfaction arises. Possibly
in the case mentioned there was little to choose between third and
fourth prizes, but when you come to compare these with the second
prize it is plain that a matter of thirty points must have been a startling
difference in the stands. And it is for these manifest oversights or
misjudgments that the extra judge making his own conclusions and
finding them at variance with the recognised censors, might advan¬
tageously hold a consultation with them before the decision is made
final.

Some such arrangement would do away with such a glaring case
as the comparison between second, third and fourth prizes at the exhi¬
bition named ; nay, it actually did detect the error, but too late for
alteration. — Y. B. A. Z.

The case mentioned on page 503 is the worst muddle I have ever
heard of. Neither judges, committee, or secretary are to be congratu¬
lated, and it appears doubtful if the final judge or censor ought not to
be included with them. It is well you have published the alleged facts ;
they contain many warnings. But putting the above case on one side
for the present, I would ask, Are not many errors in judging caused by
neglect to clear the place of exhibition soon enough? It is nothing
unusual at some shows to find the officials nearly an hour behind the
notified time for clearing; chiefly, it is presumed, because one or two
exhibitors have arrived late, and have not finished staging. This is
grossly unfair to those who do try to abide by the regulations, as they
cannot safely leave their exhibits until the place is cleared, and the
judges are hurried round in order to get finished before the time to
admit the public. All such rules should be carried out to the letter. If
any exhibitors are not ready, let them be disqualified ; they will learn to
arrive in time at the next exhibition.

The best arrangement I have seen in this matter is that practised at
Birmingham Chrysanthemum Show. A notice printed in bold type is
sent to each exhibitor a day or two before the show, saying that the rule
as to time will be strictly enforced. A bell is rung as a warning to be
ready about ten minutes before the time, and the hall is cleared
punctually and quickly when it is rung again.

The above is the only reason I can think of for many mistakes in
judging which one sometimes meets with. A few years back at a very
large show I remember two dishes of Sea Eagle Peach in one collection
of fruit were shown under distinct names, one of them being selected
with less colour than the other. Good judges ought to find out and
disqualify those who do such tricks, but if they are pressed for time they
cannot reasonably be expected to do so. It is a pity such cases should
occur, but as long as there are shows there will doubtless be a few
dishonest exhibitors who are not ashamed to rob their neighbours.
There ought to be some means of punishing them by law for this, I
consider it quite as bad as picking a man’s pocket.

If I understand your article rightly on page 503 you say the judges’
decision cannot be altered after the public are admitted. If this holds
good, how are judges’ mistakes to be rectified in the future? —
W . H. Divers, Ketton Hall Gardens, Stamford,

The article on page 503 throws a search light of electric power on
the case in question, and places the matter, so far as it has gone, very
clearly before the public. Although the verdict has been found,
sentence will presumably be deferred until all the side lights have been
turned on what is undoubtedly a momentous subject.

As a judge and exhibitor of some years’ standing may I be allowed
to make a few comments and offer a suggestion ? The case appears to

resolve itself under two heads — viz., error or incompetence. The latter
I need not dwell on ; the leading article deals with that so con¬
clusively. But error or difference of opinion, which the so-called error
may resolve itself into, allow me to turn on a side light from afar off
truly — viz., ancient history. “Long, long ago, beyond the space of
twice a thousand years,” Jupiter, in a merry mood, showered down on
mortals a number of spectacles, which each fitted on (no two were
alike), and each mortal since has been comeplled to wear them, though
invisible ; hence, till Jupiter takes back his gift, we mortals shall
never see things alike.

Another side light. Given two exhibitors, each complying with the
rules, each with blooms of about equal merit, the deft hand of one
exhibitor will with neat arrangement and finish in setting up add a
grace and charm to his stand which his opponent fails in doing, though
on analysis of the individual blooms this does not count, but in close
competition does not this influence the judges, and should it not receive
consideration ? It does from the public, and they are no bad judges.
I have seen the humble man from a single-handed place, practically
unknown and unnoticed, the first to put up his stand, the last to leave
it, giving a touch here, another there, whilj my lord’s gardener dis¬
daining these trifles, dishes up sans ceremonie and sans gout, but to find
later on that these little things are not to be despised, and do carry
weight.

Who, as an exhibitor, when clearing out for the judges does not give
a final look, and take the measure of his opponents with his eye ? I do,
and am seldom far out in this premature judging. After that, unless
anything glaring should be found, which I never have, I do not question
the judges’ decision, and though not always getting the expected place,
at other times the unexpected falls to me, and any seeming error
either way I attribute to Jupiter’s spectacles, which we, the judges, and
even experts, are condemned to wear. My suggestion is that the
National Chrysanthemum Society should formulate and publish a
clearly defined code of rules for the help and guidance of judges, which
would undoubtedly be recognised as the standard of all societies. A
committee of judges nominated by Mr. Molyneux, himself acting as
Chairman, is an alternative suggestion. — E. K.

There can be no doubt that the show referred to on page 503 last
week was that of the Scottish Horticultural Association, and the
allegations contained in your correspondent’s letter demand an answer
from me as Secretary.

Your correspondent states two facts, viz.: first, that “The Com¬
mittee so far entertained the protest as to appoint a competent expert to
‘ point ’ the different stands ; ” and, second, that “ The Secretary told
the ‘protestors’ that the Committee acknowledged the misjudgment,
but, owing to a clause in the rules, viz., ‘ The decision of the Judges is
final,’ nothing could be done in the matter.”

To both of the above “facts” I have to give a most emphatic
denial. When the disappointed competitors handed me their protest it
was laid before a meeting of the Committee, and it was resolved that the
Committee had no power to call in question the decision of the Judges,
in whose skill and integrity they placed every confidence ; and this
decision was communicated to the “ protestors.”

As this matter must be brought before my Committee, in justice
to myself I think it but right that the name of your correspondent
should be placed in my hands. The other remarks contained in your
editorial do not call for my criticism, and therefore I pass them over
for what they are worth. — Robert Laird.

[We are obliged to Mr. Laird for informing the public that the Show
alluded to was that of the Scottish Horticultural Association, held in
Edinburgh on the 16th, 17th, and 18th ult. Our correspondent of last
week sent us his name and address, assuring us of the accuracy of his
statement, which he desired us to publish. He did not mention the
name of the Society, nor did we know it when our last issue was
published. It was in no degree material that we should know it. It
was a question of what Mr. Laird describes as “facts,” but which we
described as allegations, these being of such an extraordinary nature,
yet stated with such precision, as to demand attention. We placed our
pages open for any counter statement, and as readily insert Mr. Laird’s
communication as we did that of the writer whose accuracy is so
emphatically denied. The Committee, he says, did not appoint an
expert to point the blooms after the Judges, and did not acknowledge
any “misjudgment.” Who then appointed the “ expert,” the result of
whose irksome duty we published last week? Our correspondent will
note Mr. Laird’s request for his name and address. We have no
objection to these being furnished for placing before the Committee as
Buggestei.j

CRYSTAL PALACE SEPTEMBER FRUIT SHOW.

I AM pleased to see in your last issue that “ H. W. W.” (page 508)
draws attention to these once popular gatherings of pomologists, the
discontinuance of which has indeed been a great disappointment to
both fruit growers and exhibitors generally. Like “ H. W. W.,” I was
for some years an exhibitor at these shows, and always looked upon
them as being the best managed and best conducted of any in my
experience of exhibiting.

I endorse every sentiment “ H. W. W.” has expressed in his desire
to urge the Crystal Palace Company to renew their September Fruit

December 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

681

Show, and if they will do so I can only say that I for one will endeavour
to support them.— An Old Exhibitor.

I TRUST there will be not only a strong backing-up of “ H. W. W.’s”
appeal (page 508) for a resuscitation of the September Fruit
Show, but also that a sort of memorial from a large number of
fruit growers will be prepared, signed, and sent to the Crystal
Palace Directors in favour of the suggestion. Let “ H. W. W.” prepare
the memorial and sign it, then send it to the Editor, who should be
authorised by fruit growers all over the kingdom to attach their
signatures, sent on specially provided slips, and it could then be
forwarded to the Crystal Palace Directors. It is so obvious that not only
has no other show been found a substitute for this exhibition but there
is less probability than ever in the future that any substitute will be
furnished anywhere in or about London . The opportunity is an excellent
one for the Directors to resume their proper position in relation to the
National Autumn Fruit Show. — D.

MESSRS. E. D. SHUTTLE WORTH & CO., LTD.

Although but some three years or so have elapsed since Messrs.
E. D. Shuttleworth & Co., Ltd., first established themselves at the
Albert Nurseries, Peckham Rye, they have obviously made great
progress, and the firm now occupies a prominent position amongst metro¬
politan nurserymen. Visitors to exhibitions held in the metropolis,
also in the provinces, have often had their attention drawn to the
meritorious exhibits staged by this firm, and these, with the judicious
management of the Chairman of the Company, Mr. Charles Hicks, have
done much towards building up a growing business. The Albert Nur¬
series are situated about half a mile from Honor Oak Station, and rather
more from Peckham Rye, both on the London, Chatham, and Dover
Railway, Messrs. C. Hicks, H. Wigley, and T. Baker being the directors.
To meet the increasing demands several large glass structures have
recently been built, and these, together with many other houses and
numerous pits and frames, are filled with healthy plants of various
descriptions.

Being growers for the wholesale as well as retail trade Messrs. E. D.
Shuttleworth & Co. carry on an extensive business in ornamental
foliage and flowering plants suitable for decorative purposes. Palms
for example are strongly represented, and we are keeping within bounds
in saying that so far as these are concerned the firm can hold its own
perhaps with any in the country. Thousands of plants in all stages of
growth may be seen, including seedlings an inch or so in height to those
magnificent specimens 10 or more feet high, which have embellished
so many exhibitions during the past two or three years. It is impossible
to enumerate the whole of the species grown, but it may be mentioned
that of such popular kinds as Cocos Weddelliana, Geonoma gracilis,
Kentia Canterburyana, K. Belmoreana, K. Fosteriana, Latania borbonica,
and Areca lutescens there is an enormous stock. Asparagus plumosus
nanus is largely grown, there being an almost insatiable demand for this
decorative plant, and the same applies to the best of the Dracaenas. The
last-named plants are characterised by a clean healthy appearance, and
bear the impress of skilful cultivation. Crotons, too, receive special atten¬
tion, as a glance at the beautifully coloured foliage will testify. If further
corroboration were necessary we have it in the fact that the firm has on
several occasions procured first prizes for these plants when exhibited.
Only the best are kept in stock, and thousands of young plants are
annually propagated. What has been said in regard to Palms is
applicable to Ferns, which appear to have more than ordinary notice
given them. Several houses are devoted to their culture, and it may be
observed that immense numbers of the best decorative kinds are raised
from spores. Some plants of A. farleyense in 6-inch pots were exceed¬
ingly healthy, as also were Pteris tremula Smithiana, and Davallias of
various kinds. Ornamental foliage Begonias are not forgotten, there
being a good demand for these plants ; also Araucaria excelsa, Aralias in
variety, Marantas, Aspidistras, and Cyperuses. As is now well known
Cycads are a specialty at the Albert Nurseries, and some splendid
specimens of C. revoluta have been exhibited by the firm on several
occasions. Other foliage plants deserving of individual notice are
Poinsettia pulcherrima variegata, Abutilon foliis variegata. Souvenir de
Bonn ; also the new Sonerila Baron Sallier and Phrynium variegatum,
a plant worthy of more extensive cultivation.

Whilst so much attention is given to ornamental foliaged plants it
must not be thought that those usually grown for their flowers are
overlooked. The latter are cultivated quite as extensively as the former,
and equally as well. Roman Hyacinths and Lily of the Valley are now
blooming profusely, while the early Due Van Thol Tulips are already
showing their brilliant blossoms. Large consignments of well-ripened
crowns of Lily of the Valley, with bulbs, are imported from abroad, and
apart from the forced flowers during the winter and spring, a rising trade
is done in roots through the autumn. Messrs. E. D Shuttleworth & Co.
also import thousands of Ghent, Mollis, and other Azaleas, and many of
these are now expanding their flower buds in a genial temperature.
Others, again, are temporarily planted in beds for furnishing a later
supply and meeting the demands for imported plants that arise. Orchids
are grown in good numbers, as also are Zonal, Ivy-leaved, and other
Pelargoniums. An immense stock of Marguerites in pits attracts
notice, and Gardenias are well represented, the plants being clean and
healthy. Ericas in variety, double Primulas, Bouvardias, and Cyclamens
are also extensively grown.

Messrs. E. D. Shuttleworth k. Co. have a branch nursery at Fleet,
Hampshire, over which Mr. Wigley presides, and here, the Journal
representative was informed, hardy plants, Roses, Coniferm, forest and
fruit trees, are grown in large numbers. About two acres of ground are
devoted to the culture of Daffodils, which give promise of becoming a
leading feature in the business. Carnations and Dahlias, with other
popular flowers, likewise have attention, all the newer varieties of these
being cultivated. Much more could be said in regard to this thriving
business, but the foregoing will suffice to show the firm merits all the
attention that has been given. It is worthy of mention, however, that
comprehensive and well arranged catalogues of general plants, bulbs,
and seeds are issued by this firm, and these, like the plants, deserve
more than a passing glance.

DESSERT TABLE COMPETITIONS.

The points raised by Mr. E. Harland in connection with this subject
(page 519) may perhaps appear confusing to some, but to my mind the
matter is clear and simple enough, as it hinges upon the query. Can a
dessert table be considered “ completely laid out ” if no fruit or other
accessories are placed upon it? Decidedly, yes, as the custom of not
placing fruit upon the table is a rapidly extending one. True, there are
hosts of families among whom the older custom of placing both fruits
and sweetmeats upon the table still lingers. That, however, does not
prove a dessert table to be incomplete without them, any more than
that a dinner table would not be considered “ completely laid out ”
unless the viands were placed upon it. In my opinion, therefore, the
Judges at the Hull Chrysanthemum Show rightly awarded the first prize
to the table which was acknowledged to be the best artistic arrange¬
ment, and I fail to see how a protest for disqualification could have been
sustained by the point raised. — H. Dunkin.

On first reading the paragraph contained in the Hull Chrysanthemum
schedule, one naturally comes to the conclusion that the exhibitor who
had no dishes of fruit in his exhibit for dessert table decoration would
render himself liable to disqualification. But, on closer scrutiny, it is
plain that the Judges would not have been justified in disqualifying such
exhibit, as it would be quite in conformity with the wording of the
schedule. One has no doubt as to what was in the minds of the Com¬
mittee when arranging for this class, though the Judges cannot take into
account any intentions of the donors of such prizes, but must give their
decision according to the exact wording of the schedule.

The clause is very explicit as to what flowers and foliage are to be
used, but not a word as to what kind of dessert fruit, or how many
dishes, “ if any,” were required ; the word “ completely ” contains, no
doubt a good deal of meaning, but to have its full significance the clause
should read, “completely laid out, with not less than ‘ so many ’ dishes
or varieties of dessert fruits.” — Geo. Woodgate, Warren House Gardens,
Kingston Hill, Surrey. _

It is very evident that the problem propounded for solution by Mr.
Harland is more one for logicians than for table decorators. Custom or
rule does not bind the case. It is to be determined by interpretation of
words. Those of primary importance are “dessert” and “completely.
Now, with regard to the first, what is a dessert table ? Clearly one at
which people sit to partake of whatsoever of fruit, sweets, and drinks,
may be placed before them. Now, we have hundreds of dinner-
table competitions florally dressed, but because “ dinner-table ” did any¬
one ever hold that in any such competition there must be placed on the
table dishes of meats, entries, poultry, fish, vegetables, and sauces ? Of
course no one. It is held that dinners are not now so served, but rather
are furnished a la Russe. That estimate has always been excepted, and
no one perhaps has ever held that because called “ dinner ’’-table
the presence of the usual accompaniments of a dinner were essential.
We have but to apply the same rule to a “dessert” table, and the
solution of the problem is found.

Besides, it is evident that “ fruit,” or the ordinary concomitants of a
dessert, was not in the minds of the framers of the schedule, or they
would have so expressed themselves. On the other hand. Chrysanthemum
flowers and foliage are specially enjoined. It is so obvious that the
prize is given for the best floral dressing, because the form or material
of dressing is strictly enjoined. Then as to the interpretation of the
word “ completely,” who would undertake to assume when or how a
table was completely furnished with dessert ? Say it is for six persons,
should the dessert include a Pine, white and black Grapes, Pe^rs and
Apples, Oranges, dried fruits, nuts, sweets, biscuits, and wines.
Does not all this paraphernalia present itself to any sensible person’s
mind as preposterous ? Indeed, were it bound to be furnished, it is but
too evident that the judgment of the tables would be more contingent
on the fruits than on the floral decorations and their style of arrange¬
ment. That it is not now the ordinary practice at small dinner tables
to place all the dessert on the table — a vicious practice — but to hand it
round from the sideboard, shows that in merely furnishing plates, knives
and forks, and one or two trivial dishes, that the principal decorator
merely wished to convey the idea, as intimated in the schedule, that
places at the table were furnished for six people, and that number only.
That was his interpretation of the word “ completely,” and it would seem
to be the only logical one.

A dessert table does not mean one dressed with a dessert. Had such
been expected it would have been specially provided for. What was
required is what is fully expressed in the quotation from the schedule.

582

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 14, 1893.

“ Only Chrysanthemum?, with any hardy foliage, to be used in its
decoration.” The word “ only ” settles the business. — A. D.

Mr. Harland has given us a very queer nut to crack. If the framers
of the prize schedule of the Hull Chrysanthemum Show had tried to
word the conditions governing the class for a ” dessert table,” so as to
cause confusion among both exhibitors and judges, they could not well
have done it more effectively. Personally I am inclined to agree with
those judges who, when they have to decide a knotty point, lean towards
sustaining the framers of schedules in what they intended should be
understood by certain conditions, and not towards those of the exhibitors
who prefer to put their own, and perhaps a very different construction
upon the wording. In particular would I favour what has been accepted
as the right construction in former years. In the course of a fairly
long career as an exhibitor I have been either disqualified or lost
points more than once for putting my own construction upon the
wording of certain rules, and can therefore sympathise with those who
also have to suffer if not exactly for “ conscience sake,” at any rate for
“ backing their own opinion.”

As a Judge I thoroughly dislike disqualifying exhibits, though it has
to be done occasionally ; and all things considered I should have hesitated
about voting against the table at Hull on which there was no fruit. If
it had been worded ‘‘ only fruit and Chrysanthemums, with any kind of
foliage to be used,” there could have been no mistaking the conditions ;
but unfortunately fruit was left out, and this gives a good opening for
a lawyer. Candidly I think the Judges took the only way out of the
diflBculty. It is unfortunately too true that in some quarters it has
become the custom to keep the dessert off the table, this being served
very much as the earlier part of the dinner is done. This practice is to
be commended in all cases where the dessert will not bear much
inspection, but is not likely to prevail where the host or hostess has
some good home-grown fruit to offer. By all means serve Grapes
without bloom, bruised Pears, shabby Apples, and imported fruit
generally from the sideboards ; but if my brother gardeners are well
advised they will endeavour, to the best of their ability, to keep up the
old custom of placing some of the best of their fruit on the table. Not
only does it add greatly to the general effect, but it often leads to
an acknowledgement — that is to say, a commendatory notice from the
guests, and subsequently the master or mistress as the case may be.

If I intended to compete for the prizes oifered at Hull I should
certainly feel justified is using four good dishes of fruit, both because
the wording admits of this being done, and more especially because I
am certain that would gain me a few points with the Judges. Seeing
that the wording of the schedule must stand, my advice to the Hull
Committee is to let matters take their course, beyond intimating to the
Judges, if they are diflerent to those engaged this year, that there must
be no disqualifying tables, whether fruit is or is not used in their
decoration, providing the competitors adhere to the other conditions. They
have established a precedent, which ought now to stand till the end of
the competition. — W. Iggulden.

With Mr. Harland, I fully agree that the first prize was rightly
awarded to Mrs. Douglas Joy, of Welton Hill, her table being much the
best artistic arrangement of Chrysanthemums and foliage, and that, I
take it, is the principal object for offering these prizes. Yet, on the
other hand, I must entirely differ from Mr. Harland when he states
that “ if a protest had been entered, this table must have been dis¬
qualified,” because, forsooth, it was not “ completely laid out.” In this
instance, what a bugbear that word “completely ” can be made. Was
every exhibitor to load her table with all the known wines and cordials,
also all the home and foreign fruit, both fresh and dried, that our
fruiterers could supply ? I think if such were^the case there would be
a terrible crowding out of everything in the way of floral decorations.
Your correspondent wishes ‘* to know what is the correct view.” I
quote the following from “ The Gentlewoman ” (no mean authority, by
the way) : — “ Fruit is not often put on the table for dessert, but instead
very small dishes of salted almonds, olives, and French bonbons.”
— A Yorkshire Bite.

Referring to “Dessert Table Decoration,” I have come to the
decision that fruit and every requisite should have been placed on the
table to accord with the wording of the schedule. At Southampton, as
far as I can now recollect, it mentions in the schedule, “ in the dessert
table class,” that fruit need not be placed on the table. I do not see
how a table can be complete without the fruit and all requisites. —
F. W. Flight, Cornstiles, Tioyford.

I think a Judge would take a bold step if disqualification was
enforced because a table was devoid of fruit in its adornment. I
know of no rule that bids the placing dishes of fruit on the table. This
is entirely a matter of personal taste, and in the absence of such a rule
the laying down of individual law is liable to bring complications. I
have repeatedly seen tables this year win premier honours that had no
fruit on them beyond dishes similar to those described by Mr. Harland
on the winning table at the Hull Show.

The main point in awarding the prizes for table decoration is to
recognise the greatest skill and taste in disposal of the flowers allowed.
It would be a peculiar law, I think, that permitted an exhibitor to take
a premier honour with an arrangement of flowers of diverse colours, as
well as being huddled together, for the reason that it contained a soli¬
tary dish or two of any ripe fruit which its opponent, intentionally or

otherwise, had omitted. In the absence of definite instructions that
dishes of fruit must be employed, I cannot see how disqualification can
be supported. I have examined many schedules containing classes of
this kind, and in nearly all the conditions are similar to those named
in the Hull schedule. The definition applied to the words, “ completely
laid out,” I take it means that such articles as plates, knives and forks
must be present. — E. Molyneux.

[Those letters from exhibitors, judges, secretaries of shows, and
accomplished table decorators, are overwhelmingly in favour of the
interpretation of the conditions by the adjudicators at Hull — Mr.
Cypher of Cheltenham, and Mr. Hudson of Gunnersbury.]

The Weather in London. — Much rain has fallen in the
metropolis since publishing our last issue. A slight frost was apparent
on Sunday morning, but as the day advanced it rained heavily. Mon¬
day proved fine, but on Tuesday it was very squally. Wednesday
opened wet, and at the time of going to press the weather is very un¬
settled, but mild.

- Weather in the North. — There has been very little frost

during the past week, but many sleet showers and much high wind.
Throughout Thursday night and all Friday a gale from the south¬
west blew, causing much damage to property, and Saturday was alsO’
gusty with heavy showers of sleet. Roads were slippery, and driving
difficult from frost on Sunday morning, but there was high wind
and drizzle in the evening. Monday was the best day of the eight,
and this morning (12th) the ground is white with snow. — B. D,,
S. Ferthsliire.

- Mons. Ed. Ortgies. — It is announced that Mons. Ed. Ortgies,

who for the last thirty-eight years has been Curator of the Botanic
Gardens, Zurich, is about to retire into private life, and will resign his
office on April 1st, 1894. As a young gardener, Mons. Ortgies served
at Chatsworth, also in some of the London nurseries, and was a foreign
member of the Royal Horticultural Society.

- Rugby and District Horticultural Society. — May I,

through your columns, express to those exhibitors who so kindly gave
their spare blooms and fruit to the stall held at our late Show on
behalf of the Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund, and also to Messrs.
E . D. Shuttleworth & Co. for sending a case of small Ferns and Palms
for the same object, our Committee’s sincere and hearty thanks, and to
state the amount realised was £6 17s. 8d., a cheque for which has been
forwarded to the Hon. Secretary to the Fund. — William Bryant, See,

- Tee Season. — What is to be done with regard to the more

“ precocious ” belonging to our herbaceous plants ? Many of these are
pushing vigorously — bulbous plants, too. I have already gathered
Crocuses, shallow planted ones of course. My idea is to have a supply
at once at hand of cocoa-fibre refuse, and when serious frosts attack
us to drop it into the centre of the plants, and for 4 or 5 inches
around them. Do not put it on before it is absolutely necessary.
Pfeonies are very hardy, but still the early growth must be susceptible to
frost. Whatever should be put on must be light stuff, and dry. — J. A. W.

- The December Number of “ Curtis’ Botanical Maga¬
zine ” has just been received by us. It contains representations of
Amorphophallus oncophyllus, Eulophia Zeyheri, Protea rhodantha,
Abutilon vitifolium, and Eria Meirax.

- We acknowledge the receipt of the Christmas number of Sylvia’s

“ Home Journal,” which is a most tastefully arranged and profusely
illustrated sixpennyworth, and conspicuous among the exceptional
numbers issued at this season.

- Royal Meteorological Society. — At the next meeting of

the Society, to be held at 25, Great George Street, Westminster, on
Wednesday, the 20th inst, at 8 p.m., the following papers will be read :
— “ The Great Storm of November 16th to 20th, 1893,” by Charles
Harding, F.R.Met.Soc. “Rainfall and Evaporation Observations at
the Bombay Water Works,” by S. Tomlinson, M.Inst.C.E , F.R.Met.Soc.

“ On Changes in the Character of Certain Months,” by A. E. Watson,
B.A,, F.R.Met.Soc.

December 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

533

- “ Kew Bulletin.” — We have received a copy of the “ Kev?

Bulletin,” Appendix 1894, which contains a list of such hardy herbaceous
annual and perennial plants as well as of such trees and shrubs that have
matured seeds under cultivation in the Royal Gardens, Kew, during the
year 1893. These seeds are available for exchange with colonial, Indian,
and foreign botanic gardens, as well as with regular correspondents of
Kew. The seeds are only available in moderate quantity, and are not
sold to the general public. It is desirable to add that no application,
nxcept from remote colonial possessions, can be received for seeds after
the end of March.

- Royal Botanic Society. — At a meeting of this Society, held

on Saturday last, in the gardens at Regent’s Park, Mr. Arthur Rigg in
the chair, it was reported that the donations received since the last
meeting included specimens of the peculiar tropical ants inhabiting
Myrmecodia Beccari, living plants of which are already in the gardens.
These plants are remarkable as affording food and shelter to certain
genera of ants in return for the protection they are able to give against
the attacks of injurious animals or insects. It is stated that H.R.H. the
Duke of York has been made a Fellow of this Society.

- A transatlantic contemporary states : — Three of the largest

■Japanese Maples in America are now standing in Prospect Park,
Brooklyn. They are said to be among the first of these trees sent there
by the late Mr. Thomas Hogg, and are now, perhaps, 35 feet high, with
a corresponding trunk circumference. Although they are beginning
to be crowded they are fine trees, and during the late autumn they are
especially beautiful. This late retention of foliage is a peculiarity of
East Asian plants, and it should be taken advantage of when planting
for autumn effect.

- Stapelia gigantea. — This wonderful species, according to

Mr, W. Watson, in the “Garden and Forest,” has recently flowered
freely in a stove at Kew, and some of the star-shaped flowers measured
a foot in diameter. While it may be taken as a general rule that
Stapelias prefer a dry atmosphere with plenty of sunlight and warmth,
there are exceptions, and S. gigantea is one of them. Until this plant
was placed in a moist stove along with the Palms and Aroids, where it
had shade in bright weather and plenty of water at all times, except
for a few weeks in midwinter, it never flowered. There is something
fascinating about the flowers of Stapelias, dull though they are in
colour as a rule, and disagreeable, too, in odour, but when these flowers
are a foot across, tawny-red in colour, hairy, and not too disagreeable in
odour, they are worth a place in every stove collection. S. gigantea
is as interesting in its way as Aristolochia gigas Sturtevanti or Victoria
regia.

- Lilies and theib Culture. — This was the title of an able

lecture delivered before the members of the Wakefield Paxton Society
at their ordinary weekly meeting on Saturday, December 2nd. The
lecturer was Dr. Clarke, M.A., of Headingley, Leeds, Professor in the
Agricultural Department at the Yorkshire College, Leeds. Dr. Clarke
is an authority on horticultural and agricultural matters. He has a
hobby in the culture of Japanese Lilies. The lecturer named many of
the best varieties of Lilies suitable for ^indoor and outdoor cultivation
in this country, and by means of chalk illustrations on a black board
he showed the best mode of planting Lilies in pots, strongly recom¬
mending the use of peat, sandy compost, and rape dust. He depre¬
cated the practice of plunging pots of Lilies and other bulbs in ashes,
saying that the rain frequently washed sulphurous matter out of the
ashes into the bulbs, and this had a damaging effect. He preferred
clean and dry straw to either ashes or cocoa fibre dust, this being a safer
material for the purpose in question.

- Missouri Botanical Garden. — We have received a pamphlet

containing the fifth announcement of the pupils at the Missouri
Botanical Gardens, St. Louis, U.S.A. Previous to entering the garden
the pupils must pass a preliminary examination. Pupils are lodged in
comfortable rooms in a spacious dwelling adjoining the garden, under
the charge of a competent employ 6 of the garden. The lodging-house
includes a reading-room supplied with horticultural and agricultural
papers, and also with a collection of books on the same subjects, of
which the pupils have free use. So far as possible, the surroundings
of pupils are made home-like, and without assuming any responsibility
for their behaviour, an effort is made to subject them to influences
calculated to insure for them habits of industry and investigation.
During the first year of their scholarship the pupils work at the
practical duties of the garden nine or ten hours daily. After the first
year, one-half of each day is given to manual work, the remainder being
devoted to class work.

- A Botanic Garden for Cardiff. — It is reported that the

Parks Committee of the Cardiff County Council recently passed a
resolution to the effect that £500 be voted for the purpose of erecting a
glass house, and for buying a collection of herbaceous plants to form
a botanic garden in connection with the Roath Public Park.

- Presentation to Mr. W. Bailey. — We learn that on the

6th inst. the employes at Southwark Park, S.E., presented Mr. Bailey,
until recently superintendent of the park, and now of Dulwich Park,
with a handsome electro-plated cruet stand. The foreman, Mr. F.
Bright, made the presentation on behalf of the men, and wished Mr.
Bailey success in his new appointment.

- The Watford Chrysanthemum Show.— I was somewhat

surprised to read in your last issue (page 512) that Mr. Gleeson, The
Warren House Gardens, Stanmore, had been awarded a set of fish
carvers for the best exhibit in the Show. Mr. Colchester offered the
above as a special prize for the best exhibit in the Show grown with a
specified manure, but too late to appear in the schedule, consequently
the Judges considered it would be wise to hold over the prize till next
year, and did not award it to Mr. Gleeson, but I suppose Mr. Colchester
has done so personally. I do not object to Mr. Gleeson having the prize
in fact, I congratulate him on receiving it, but I do object to him saying
it was for the best exhibit in the Show. The Judges alone should
decide this. — One of the Committee.

- Liverpool Horticultural Association. — On Saturday

evening last the members of the above Association held their seventh
annual dinner at the Adelphi Hotel, Lime Street ; but in consequence
of the large amount of sickness prevailing many old friends were missed,
and the company, which numbered seventy-four, was only about half
the usual strength. Mr, W. Tunnington, in proposing the toast of the
Association, spoke of the great difference of the exhibits of sixteen years
ago and the present time, more particularly the Chrysanthemums. He
referred to the good work the Association had done in disseminating
knowledge in horticulture amongst the young gardeners, and hoped it
would go on prospering in its work. Mr. T. White, the Chairman of
the Association, briefly responded, and regretted that their splendid
exhibitions were not more patronised by the public. — R. P. R.

- Doyenne du Comice Pear from a North Wall, — Very

good samples of fruit of this fine Pear so produced were shown by a
local gardener at Limpsfield, Surrey, on the occasion of a lecture on
fruit culture by one of the County Council lecturers last week. The
fruits were larger than what are often found on wall trees on a warm
aspect, but even so late as November 22nd were far from being ripe, and
would be probably be at their best a month later, whilst the flesh was
excellent. It lacked softness and the flne flavour which so characterises
this grand Pear. That such fruit would be produced on a north wall
in ordinary seasons is doubtful, indeed in this case the tree had not
borne before the present year. It is very obvious all the same that
some good Pears will and do produce good fruit on a north wall, and it
may be with a view to prolong the Pear season, all too short this year ;
to also grow more on north walls than is at present the case.

- Birmingham Amateur Gardeners’ Association. — The

present session of this Association was brought to a close on Wednesday,
6th inst., when Mr. Alderman Wm. White, T.P., gave his Presidential
address at the Temperance Institute. There was a good attendance, but
not so many as there should have been to hear such an enthusiast in
gardening matters, who as Chairman of the Parks Committee is
Birmingham’s “head gardener.” He chose for his subject “Gardens,
Gardeners, and Gardening,” His connection with a garden commenced
fifty years ago, when he used to enjoy many a chat with his father’s
gardener. As to gardeners, he had always found them a very genial
class of men ; hut he thought rather addicted somewhat to calling their
employers’ plants and fruit “my this” or “ my that.” In the case of
his own gardener (for he said he was only an under gardener now) he
held that he had a right to style them as partly his own, and when the
gardener spoke of “ my Grapes,” he turned and said, “ Oh I they are not
yours entirely, for they partly belong to me.” However, to turn to
gardening, he said that times had greatly altered when he was a youth ;
very few at that time had a greenhouse. At the conclusion of his
address, Mr. Griffin proposed and Mr, Roe seconded a vote of thanks to
the President for his very interesting address. Messrs. E, D, Clarke,
Gosling, W. B. Griffin, and R. F. Rees exhibited plants ^and flowers, and
the usual awards were made. The silver medal for the highest number
of points during the year has been won by Mr. Gosling, the bronze
medal by Mr. W. B, Griffin.

634

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 14, IMJ,

- Trapping Bullfinches. — A few weeks since I noticed Mr.

Hiam was writing about trapping bullfinches. Will Mr. Hiam say if
the trap cages can be easily made, or where they can be bought ? — J. E.

- Mons. L. Gillekens. — We are informed that Mons. Gillekens,

who has been Director of the Ecole d’Horticulture of Vilvorde for
twenty-six years, has tendered his resignation. Mons. Gillekens will, we
understand, retain his present title as an honorary distinction.

- A Large Paulownia. — Mr. George Canby writes that he has

since made an accurate measurement of the great Paulownia or Empress
Tree in Independent Square, Philadelphia, and he finds at 3 feet from
the ground it is 9 feet in circumference. As we (“ Meehans’ Monthly ”)
happen to know that this is probably the oldest tree in the United States,
it will be interesting to learn if there is a larger one or not in the
country.

- The Boyal Horticultural Society of Ireland.— A

special meeting of the above Society was held on December 4th at the
office, 15, Lower Sackville Street. The following members of Council
were present : — Sir Percy R. Grace, Bart., D.L. (in the chair) ; Major
Cusack, J.P. ; Mr. Edmund D’Olier, Mr. F. W. Moore, Mr. William
Dick, Mr. George Casson, J.P. ; Mr. C. Strong King, J.P. ; Mr. George
Ross, M.A., B.E. ; and Mr. Hamilton Drummond, J.P., Hon. Sec.
The following resolution was passed : — “ That the members of the
Council of the Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland desire to express
their deep regret at the death of His Grace the Duke of Leinster, their
late President, and their sincere sympathy with Her Grace the Duchess
in her bereavement, and that a copy of this resolution be sent to Her
Grace. — (Signed) Percy R. Grace, Bart, Chairman.” The following
were elected annual members of the Society : — Major A. Mansfield,
Morristown Lattin, Naas, Co. Kildare ; Mrs. Adam Findlater, Primrose
Hill, Kingstown ; John M'Entaggart, Esq., Highfield Manor, Rathfarn-
ham and Lower Sackville Street.

- California and Australia Canned Fruits. — A horti¬
cultural magazine of Melbourne, Australia, calls attention to the fact
that Australia may become a close competitor with California in
furnishing dried and canned fruits for exportation to the old world.
Peaches, Pears, Plums, and Apricots find themselves very much at
home in Australia ; and the freight from there to the old world is
little, if any more than the freight from California. For some reason
or other, the enterprise in prosecuting these branches of fruit business
has never been very successful in Australia ; but our contemporary
states that during the past year or two a great advance has been made
in this branch of fruit economy, and that at least one firm in South
Australia has been remarkably successful in making profitable ventures
in this line to the old world. In some branches of agriculture the
Australians have become close competitors with America for portions of
the trade of the world ; and it would look, from the facts above noted,
as if they were destined in the future to come closely into competition
with an industry which has been almost a monopoly for California.

- The Weather Last Month in Scotland. — Mr.

G. McDougall, Stirling, writes : — The total rainfall here was
3’417 inches, which fell on eighteen days, the greatest fall being
0‘950 inch on the 16th. Frost was registered on nineteen days.
Warmest day, 54-2° on the 27th; coldest day, .35‘5° on the 18th ; warmest
night, 49 8° on the 29th ; coldest night, 21° on the 2l8t. Mean
maximum, 45 6° ; mean minimum, 31’4°. The terrific gale of the 18th
will long be remembered as the most disastrous experienced in this
district for a long time. Nurserymen will be busy before they can
supply the demand that is sure to arise if only some of the trees blown
down are replaced. On the Abbey Craig, which belongs to the town of
Stirling, more than 3000 trees are uprooted. In some parts they are lite¬
rally packed above each other. Mr. Lunt, gardener at Keir, told me that
all their finest specimens are down. Some of the woods at Airthrey
have the appearance as if a bat'ery of artillerymen had been practising
amongst them. It is the same cry from all quarters, ” What a
destruction among our woods ! The finest of our trees are lying
prostrate, trees which we cannot replace.”

- White Earwigs (page 511). — I have often observed earwigs of

a lightish colour, but they were always under cover, and, when disturbed,
they endeavoured to get out of sight as soon as possible. I have always
attributed their lightish colour to a new change of garments. Some of
the Carabis beetles, too, may be seen with their elytra white and soft,
but these again are newly emerged from the chrysalis. — G. MacDqugal,
Stirling .

- A Gift to Dundee. — We understand that Messrs. R. B.

Laird & Sons of Edinburgh have offered to the Council of the City of
Dundee as a gift glass houses, trees, and shrubs, valued at £4000. It is
stated that the houses are those at Coates Gardens, Edinburgh.

- Two Crops of Grapes in One Season. — California is

especially favoured in many way*. It seems to be the Paradise of fruit
growing. It does not seem to be generally known that they have two
crops of Grapes often in one season. At the present time, according to
an American contemporary, one of the questions with Californian fruit
growers is whether it really pays to allow the Grapes borne upon the
later wood growth to mature ; some believing that the drain on the
vitality of the Vine injures it for the future, while some contend that
the plant is just as strong in after years where these two crops are
taken as it would be with only one.

- WooLTON Gardeners’ Mutual Improvement Society. —

On Thursday, the 7th inst., under the chairmanship of Mr. H. Corlett
Mr. R, G. Waterman gave an interesting account of various noted
horticultural places he had visited during the summer — viz., Impney
Hall, Droitwich, the chief features being the Chrysanthemums and
fernery ; Appley Towers, Isle of Wight, mention being made of an
unusually large Fig tree carrying an enormous crop ; Messrs. Drover’s,
Fareham, and their Chrysanthemums ; Swanmore Park, where Grapes
were very fine, but the great feature was the Apple trees, carrying such
a heavy load as to necessitate their being propped. He finished an
interesting paper by mentioning the Earl’s Court Exhibition and the
Crystal Palace Ffite. Although a departure out of the ordinary run of
the meetings, it proved of great interest, as showing many difiierent
methods and ideas at the places visited. Mr. Stoney and Mr. Carling
followed with a few remarks. The usual votes of thanks terminated the
meeting. — R. P. R.

- Fruit Machinery. — When we consider the vast difference

between the price of labour in American gardens and orchards, and the
low prices paid in the Old World, it is a matter of surprise to foreigners
that we, says an American paper, can compete so successfully with them
in their markets. They attribute it to our fine climate and good soil,
yet there are not wanting some intelligent fruit cultivators who believe
that these conditions are just the reverse, that America has probably
the worst climate in the world for the successful growth of fruits, and
that it is simply American genius which overcomes these difluculties,
and thus gives them the command of the world’s markets. But it is in
the Far West, and especially along the Pacific slope, where thousands
of acres are devoted to fruit culture, and the fruit industries are among
the most profitable of the States’ revenues, that this adaptation of art
to overcome Nature is more apparent perhaps than in the Eastern States.
Sometimes we see praise given to the systems of education in effect in
the Old World as compared with that popular in America ; but if the
proof of the pudding is in the eating, American education seems to have
decidedly the advantage.

- The Antwerp Exhibition. — Arrangements are now in

progress for the adequate representation of Great Britain and Ireland
at the forthcoming International Exhibition at Antwerp, which is to be
opened in May next, and of which the King of the Belgians is the
patron, and the Count of Flanders the President. The Exhibition
includes industrial, scientific, and artistic productions, maritime,
colonial, and African sections ; and shows of agricultural products,
flowers, and fruit. The site of the Exhibition is a plot of land of
200 acres, near the river Scheldt, and connected with all the principal
railways, and the main buildings cover 120,000 square yards. The
Governor of Antwerp is the President of the Executive Committee, and
the Belgian Government has appointed a Commissary-General. The
British Government has authorised Mr. De Courcy Perry, Her Majesty’s
Consul-General in Belgium, to act as Commissioner-General for Great
Britain, and he has nominated as the Antwerp Committee the Lord
Mayor, Sir Frederic Leighton, P.R.A., Alderman Sir David Evans,
Sir George Birdwood, Mr. Kennedy, C.B., Colonel North, Mr. Walter
H. Harris, Mr. A. Agelasto, Mr. James Dredge, Mr. John Morgan, and
others. The scheme has received the warm approval of the London
Chamber of Commerce and the Associated Chambers, and a programme
indicating their co-operation will shortly be issued. Meanwhile
information will be supplied in London by the Chamber of Commerce,
and in Antwerp by the British Consul-General. To co-operate with
the Chamber of Commerce an important Committee has been formed
by M. Rogier, Belgian Vice-Consul in London. Many of the exhibitors
at Chicago are sending their goods direct to Antwerp.

December 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

535

OSTROWSKIA MAGNIFICA.

In a note on Ostrowskia magnifica, which appeared in the Journal
of September 28th (page 282), I referred to the difficulty of preierving

Mr. J. N. Gerard, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, U.S.A., the writer of the
article, very kindly Bent me a copy of “ Garden and Forest,” which was
followed by a letter giving further information. In the meantime I had
been in communication with the Kev. H. Kwbank, who is not easily

Fig. 77.— OSTROWSKIA MAGNIFICA.

and flowering this plant, and asked for information regarding it. On
page 355 an extract from the American “Garden and Forest” was
published, giving the experience of a correspondent of that journal in
its cultivation, in which he had been successful. Shortly afterwards

baffled in the culture of hardy flowers, and, as I expected, speciah treat¬
ment is required in order to grow and jflower this undoubtedly fire
plant.

Mr. Ewbank says it should be dried off in the summer in situ. He

636

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 14, 1893,

does it by placing a piece of glass over it after flowering, and it
appears that Herr Max Leichtlin says that it requires this treatment.
The experience of Mr. Gerard also points to the necessity of a period of
rest in summer. His plant is grown in an Oncocyclus Iris bed, a raised
border against the south wall of the dwelling house, where plants can
be kept perfectly dry from time of ripening until well into August.
There (New Jersey) the Ostrowskia does not start into growth until well
into April, and hard frosts are not experienced after the first week in
that month.

This information would point to a bed devoted to Oncocyclus Irises
being one of the most suitable positions for the Ostrowskia, these Irises
also requiring a period of perfect rest. The early starting into growth
of the Ostrowskia, which in this neighbourhood we also experience
with the Bremuri is not so easily remedied, and I fear for this we shall
have to protect for a little while in the early spring. It still remains to
be seen whether our cooler summers in the north will give sufficient
heat to ripen this plant. The summer heat at Baden Baden, New
Jersey, and Ryde must be considerably greater and more prolonged than
we can expect further north, but we must make another attempt to
attain success with an uncommon flower. — S. Arnott, Dumfries.

[This plant, flowers of which are depicted in the illustration (fig. 77),
was exhibited by Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery,
Chelsea, at a meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society in July, 1888,
when a first-class certificate was awarded for it. It is stated that Messrs.
Veitch & Sons first flowered Ostrowskia magnifica in this country.]

THE RASPBERRY MOTH (LAMPRONIA RUBIELLA).

The small red caterpillars of this moth are most destructive to
Raspberry canes. The culture of Raspberries has enormously increased,
as they have proved in some seasons to be a most profitable crop ; their
enemy, the Raspberry Moth, has multiplied in a proportionate degree.
The production of this valuable fruit has been much decreased by its
action in some seasons, and it has been consequently considerably dearer
than other fruit. Currants, Strawberries, and Cherries, for instance, as
seen by the higher prices charged for Raspberry jam when the insect
has been troublesome. On many fruit farms the crop has been reduced
from one-third to half in consequence of the attack of this insect. Fruit
farms in Kent and other counties have been visited in the spring, upon
which at least half of the buds of the Raspberry canes had been
destroyed. In some of the buds the caterpillars were still actively
working, in some they had changed into pupae. This is frequently the
condition of many Raspberry plantations in England and Scotland.
Much mischief is often occasioned also in gardens and allotments where
patches of Raspberry canes are cultivated.

Upon close examination of the attacked Raspberry canes, it will be
seen that the soft juicy part at the base of the buds has been eaten
away, so as to kill the buds and prevent their foliage and blossoms from
being put forth. There is also a hole in the cane at the base of the buds,
in which the pupa will be found ensconced.

Debceiption of the Moth.

The Larapronia rubiella, or Raspberry Moth, belongs to the family
Tineidae, of the group Tineina. It is a most beautiful moth, of a light
brown colour, with a series of spots like burnished gold upon its fore
wings. The hinder wings are slightly lighter in colour, with light
fringes. It is barely half an inch across its wings, and its body is only
about the fourth of an inch in length. It may be seen towards the
end of May, or the first week of June, flying round the Raspberry
canes.

Life History.

The moth places her eggs upon the flowers of the Raspberry canes at
the end of May, or in the beginning of June. After five or six days
the caterpillar may be found in the raised white receptacle upon which
the fruit, or more correctly the collection of little fruits composing
the Raspberry, is formed. The caterpillar does not appear to injure the
fruit, nor, indeed, to feed at all at this time. Mr. Stainton, in his
“ Manual of Butterflies and Moths,” says that the caterpillar hiber¬
nates without feeding. When it is fully grown the caterpillar makes
its way out of the receptacle, either by crawling or by letting itself
■down by silken cords to the earth beneath the canes, and passes
the winter in a case, or kind of cocoon. It emerges from this state
of hibernation on the first approach of spring, and crawls up the Rasp¬
berry eanes, and getting to the buds, worms itself into these at their
bases, and makes up for long autumn and winter months of fasting by
feeding upon them. In 1892 caterpillars were first found in Raspberry
buds on April 10th. Dr. Chapman states that the caterpillar leaves
the hibernating cocoon in March, early or late, according to the season.

When the time arrives for pupation, the caterpillar scoops out a hole
in the pith of the canes, just below the bases of the buds, in which it
turns to a chrysalis.

From a quantity of pieces of Raspberry canes, whose buds were badly
infested with caterpillars, sent on the 8th of May, and kept in a glass
case, moths came forth on the 9th of June. That there might be no

possible doubt as to their identity, some were sent to Mr. Stainton, who
pronounced them to be Lampronia rubiella.

The larva is close upon a quarter of an inch long, decidedly pink in
colour for the most part, though the shade of colour varies somewhat in
individuals, and becomes more red in most larvae as they get older. The
head is black. There is a patch of black on the first segment. It has
three pairs of black feet on the thoracic segments. The pro-legs number
four pairs, and there is a pair of anal feet.

The pupa is exactly the fourth of an inch long, tapering somewhat
unusually, and has a curious spine upon the back on the last segment.

Methods of Prevbntiok and Remedies.

The caterpillars are just under the surface of the ground, around and
among the stocks of the Raspberry canes. As it has been shown, they
remain there from about midsummer until March. Therefore, forking
the ground round and between the stocks deeply with a pronged fork,
or even hoeing it with a three-toothed hoe would destroy some and bury
others so deeply that they could not get forth.

Dr. Chapman has suggested the following practical method of
prevention : “ The caterpillars are in the crown of the stock, or

near it, and under rubbish there collected. Rake this away, and
earth the stock up again, and you will thus bury them, and most will
perish.”

Soot, lime ashes, or soot and lime mixed, which form a pungent
compound, might be forked or hoed into the ground in the autumn or
winter.

Raspberry canes in field culture are nearly all cut away, so that there
are but few canes or stems left. It would be easy, therefore, to put a
little thick softsoap composition containing paraffin oil, or carbolic acid,
or some other offensive stuff, with a large paint brush, upon the lower
part of each cane that is left, in order to prevent the caterpillars from
crawling up. They are very small, and the least obstruction of a
disagreeable nature, it is believed, would stop their progress.

Cutting off and burning the infested stems while the caterpillars are
in the buds or receptacles, between April and the middle of June, would
destroy many caterpillars. This may be very freely done, as Raspberry
canes throw up plenty of shoots to take the place of those cut away.—
{Board of Agriculture.')

FLORAL NOMENCLATURE.

Respecting scientific names (page 495), if young men during the
probation of bothy life embraced those golden opportunities seldom
recurring afterwards by a little steady and continuous application of
spare time to self culture we should not hear so much of bad spelling.
Many do, I know, but there are very many more who do not, who
would not think of going into the field of knowledge after the day’s
work in the houses or garden is over, and there delve a little for them¬
selves by digging up a few of those dry old Latin roots. To those who
do, how they bud forth into leaves and flowers ; concealed under those
hard names, what a hitherto hidden world is revealed to him. It may
have to be done under difficulties. I have experienced some in settling
myself in the corner of a small bothy kitchen of a winter's night with
four playing with cards on the table, and one solitary candle
between us. I know the fifth part of that luminary seemed very small
to me, but

“ He who hopes th’ Olympic prize to gain.

All arts must try and every toil sustain.”

Relative to the names of florists’ flowers, could not some protection
be given by special societies ? For instance, could not the National
Rose Society persuade the raiser of, say. Souvenir de Mons. Andre
Leroy d' Angers that his Rose by any other name would smell as sweet ?
or the National Chrysanthemum Society that L’Bnfant des Deux
Mondes would not suffer if deprived of its two worlds, or, vice versa,
the two worlds might do without the child? These are stumblingblocks
that trip up old gardeners as well as young ones, and those who will
persist in so baptising their progeny must not only expect liberties
taken with them, nor be surprised if they get so mutilated that they fail
to recognise their own children. — E. K.

THE POLLINATION OF PEARS.

I AM, as must be many of your readers, much indebted to Mr. Abbey
for his suggestive article (page 606) on the “ Pollination of Pears.” The
subject appears to have been neglected in this country, while it has been
forced upon the attention of Americans by their custom of planting
large areas with single varieUes. This has enabled them to discover
that certain varieties under such circumstances do not become fertilised,
although the same varieties elsewhere are well known to be fertile.

It is difficult for an amateur to derive from a mixed collection, where
many varieties are grown together, much experience as to the matter at
issue ; yet I venture to give some little, not because of its value, but
that it may induce others to give us the benefit of theirs, as I believe
the subject is well worthy of discussion. To take some of the Pears
mentioned by Mr. Abbey : Beurr6 Giffard, an excellent Pear and
valuable for its season, although perfectly healthy, very rarely sets its
fruit with me, while Williams’ Bon Chretien or the Bartlett, as invari¬
ably bears a large and regular crop ; Beurr6 Clairgeau, quoted as
imperfectly staminate, is retained in my collection solely for its

December 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

637

beauty, when annually loaded with its handsome fruit ; it is never
eaten here.

I fully agree with Mr, Abbey that Comte de Lamy is the best of all
Pears. It has every merit that a Pear should possess, not excepting
size, which is most convenient for biting. Every Pear to be enjoyed
perfectly should be bitten, large juicy Pears cannot be so eaten
comfortably. Jersey Gratioli with me sets its fruit regularly and so
abundantly that it has no energy left to make young wood ; there is no
Pear more refreshing. The fertility of fruit trees depends on the
perfect development of the blossom, and this may vary with soil,
situation, or climate. Therefore it is not difficult to understand that a
variety, which in some circumstances doss not develop its anthers, may,
under other conditions, perfect them, and so some of the discrepancies
referred to in Mr, Abbey’s article may be explained.

Mr. Abbey teaches the lesson to make an accurate record of the
dates of the blossoming of the Pear, and at the same time to note down
carefully the condition of the fertilising organs ; and if it be found in a
tree otherwise healthy, but unfruitful, that the anthers are imperfect
and deficient in pollen, to plant in the neighbourhood of that tree a
variety which produces pollen in abundance, and in the meantime, until
the latter is in a condition to assist the tree deficient in pollen, to try
the experiment of fertilising it by artificial means with foreign pollen. —
E. Tonks, Knoiole, Birmingham.

Me, Molyneux in Ieelaxd.

I AM grateful to Mr. Molyneux for the kind expressions (page 516)
in his courteous letter on Ireland, and considerably soothed besides. He
has, figuratively, taken the shillelagh out of my hand. Being behind
the scenes whilst he was on the stage that exciting day in Dalkey, I was
privileged and pleased to hear the vox goojnili unanimously vote him
“ A jolly good fellow.” That is a fact, and not blarney from — Paddy,

Incueved Japanese Cheysanthemums.

Eelative to the article in the Journal of Horticulture, 'Novemhev
30th, page 497, as I was the winner of the first prize at Reading alluded
to by “ Beginner,” I must say neither Gaspard Eozain, nor Mdlle. Marie
Hoste were exhibited in my stand. I should not think of putting either
in as an incurved Japanese. Perhaps it would be as well for “ Beginner ”
to be sure before he states anything in print. If necessary I can give
the names of all blooms exhibited in my stand. — G. Lane, Highfield,
Englejield Green.

Cheysanthemdm Floeence Caee.

I see a “ Grower ” (page 515) is inquiring where Florence Carr can
be obtained. It may interest your readers to know that I have secured
the stock, and the variety, with others, is being advertised. — W. Wells.

Cheysanthemum Eobeet Petfield.

Me. R. Owen writes, “An error has crept into your notes (page 514)
regarding the parentage of this incurved Chrysanthemum. It is not a
sport, but a seedling from Princess of Wales of my own raising.” In
justice to Mr. Owen, who is to be complimented upon the introduction
of such a sterling novelty, I hasten to make the correction. —
E. Molyneux.

Cheysanthemums at Philadelphia, U.S A.

At this Show, the first prize for six new varieties never before
exhibited was awarded to my old friend, Mr. H. B. Surman, of German¬
town. The same grower was also awarded a silver medal for Mrs. W. A.
Reed, an orange-yellow Japanese of the Golden Ball type, and a
certificate of merit for another new seedling named Dr. Herbert M.
Howe. The flowers of this variety are of fine “ Blkhorn ” form and
good pink colour. Mr. Surman is well known as the raiser of many
of the best American varieties. — Chas, Lawton, The Gardens, Welton
House, Hast Yorkshire.

Cheysanthemum Chas. Davis,

By altering a phrase and passing it ofE as a quotation “Querist”
(page 497) now limits his grievance to the statement that the unsuc¬
cessful blooms were “perfect in shape, fresh, and equal in size” to
those that secured the award. It is precisely here where we differ.
The winning blooms were not faded ; they were only paler in colour,
and so far as size is concerned they were much larger blooms altogether
than those which appear to have captivated the eye of “ Querist.”

As to point judging at the Floral Committee, I am not aware that
such a system is supposed to prevail there at all. Their only rule is
that when more than one exhibit of the same variety is staged the
award shall be to the one in the best condition. What “ best condition ”
means is for them, or the majority of them, to decide. As I have said
before, the Committee certificate the variety, not any particular tone of
colour the flower may assume. Of course, “Querist’s” individual
opinion may differ, but when well-known exhibition flowers are staged
for certificates size must tell, and evidently did so in this case. — P.

Cheysanthemum Mdlle. Theeese Rey.

I AM pleased to find Mr. Molyneux (page 514) places this beautiful
new white Japanese in the foremost place of novelties. It seems to me
to be amongst white what E. Molyneux is amongst dark varieties. It is a
distinct departure from the too common forms in whites, either dense
petalled reflexed of the Avalanche style, or else incurved like Stanstead
White. Mdlle. Th^rese Rey was one of the very best shown at the
Royal Aquarium last week. It keeps its true character to the last, and
does not, as some others do, vary its proper form with age. The florets
are broad, flat, and very pure, but are not too long, as is the case with
so many varieties. With so very many new Japs showing incurved
form, and Robert Owen is the best of that strain yet, it is rather
refreshing to find such a delightful variety in the white Mdlle Th^r^se
Rey, that is so very “ Japanese ” in character. — D.

The N.C.S. and its Ceetificates.

Because I referred to the fact that the Royal Horticultural Society
sometimes sit in a bad light “ A Mummer ” (page 497) jumps to the
conclusion that I am trying to argue that they always do so. One thing
is certain, whether they meet an hour earlier than the National Chrys¬
anthemum Society or not, that it must have been very bad on
November 14th, when your reporter says it was impossible to see the
true colours of the flowers. I should like to know where fair daylight
can be depended on in London during November, and all I intended to
point out was that the N.C.S. is not the only Society that suffers from
what none of us can help.

“A Mummer” finds the R.H.S. more lavish than the N.C.S. in
the matter of certificates, and hopes the latter will not follow suit. I
fail to see why. The one is not essentially a Chrysanthemum Society,
the other is. The novelties exhibited at the N.C.S. must be far more
numerous than those staged at the Drill Hall, and what would be more
feasible than to find the National awarding a larger number of certifi¬
cates? If they do not do so, and “A Mummer” seems to know, it only
shows what I have already stated, that a very rigid system of selection
is carried out by the N.C.S., and that the standard now required is a
very high one. — P.

National Cheysanthemum Society.

Theee was a meeting of the General Committee of the above Society
on Monday last at Anderton’s Hotel, Mr. R. Ballantine occupying the
chair. After reading the minutes of the previous meeting the Chairman
mentioned that there was only one matter arising out of them, and it
referred to the suggestion of holding the Society’s Show elsewhere than
at the Aquarium. He had visited two places suggested, but they were
quite unsuitable, not only in regard to size but also in the price required.
He would be pleased to inspect any building that members thought
appropriate, but he felt that no terms equal to those offered by the
Aquarium Co. could be obtained, and that the Society was not in a
position to hold its shows entirely on its own account.

The awards of the Arbitration Committee at the December Show
were then confirmed, consisting of a gold medal to Mr. H. J. Jones,
silver-gilt medals to Mr. W. Wells, Mr. R. Owen, Mr. Henry Perkins ;
and silver medals to Messrs. Chard, N. Davis, E. Stevens, Rowbottom,
Waite, Witty, and Cannell & Sons for exhibits of Chrysanthemums, and
other flowers. The Secretary presented the interim report of the Schedule
Sub-Committee, from which it was gathered that arrangements have
been concluded with the Aquarium Co. to hold exhibitions in 1894 in
October, November, and December, and that the Society will receive
£300 towards the prize money. The dates fixed are as follows : —
10th, 11th, and 12th October; 6th, 7th, and 8th November ; and 4th, 5th,
and 6th December.

The financial statement showed receipts to the amount of £650, and
the reserve fund has been increased to upwards of £50. Thirteen new
members were elected. The paper by Mr. C. B. Shea on judging was
then read by the Secretary in the absence of the author. It was a
lengthy but interesting review of the present system, and contained
suggestions for a new method to be authoritatively set up by the N.C.S.
This paper will appear in the schedule for the ensuing year.

New Cheysanthemums.

{Concluded from page 514.)

Van den Heede. — The colour of this is peculiar, being that of cherry
wood, the reverse buff lake. The florets are perhaps a trifle short, the
flower is exceptionally full and solid.

Le Verseau. — When developed from what is known as late crown
buds this may be termed a refined Etoile de Lyon. The florets much
resemble that variety in formation, while they form a full solid flower,
in every respect possessing much quality ; in colour rosy lilac, the tip
of each floret is white when expanding.

Thomas Wilkins. — This resembles Mrs. F. Jameson in form, the
florets are however longer, the flower full and solid. In colour it is
golden bronze — a promising variety.

James Mgers. — This is an English raised seedling. In form it
reminds one of Flamme de Punch. The colour is rose.

Rose Wynne. — Incurving florets of extra width, blush, heavily
veined with rose pink. A large loosely formed flower.

Madame R. M. JZieowfZ.— Narrow flat florets, rose lilac, tipped white, a
full solid bloom ; most promising.

Golden Wedding. — Although yellow flowers are tolerably plentiful
in this section, there is room for more when they possess the sterling
quality of this American raised variety. Rich orange yellow is the
shade of this. The florets are narrow at the base, widening towards their
extremity and incurving at the points.

538

JOURi'TAL OF HORTIGU'LTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 14, 1893.

International. — This is a giant in size, even moderately well grown
blooms measuring 8 inches in diameter. The florets are flat and broad,
with a semi-drooping character ; lilac in colour, with rich purple
stripes.

Miss Muriel Scott. — The lower florets are golden bronze, the centre
pale yellow. A full and pleasing variety.

C. Vere Flood. — The result of a cross between Mrs. F. Jameson and
Puritan, and retains some of the character of both. In form the florets
partake of the former. The colour is deep purple rose, mottled white in
the centre.

IJiomas Hewitt. — This variety is deserving of notice on account of
its great keeping property. The florets are broad, and incurve thoroughly,
giving it a massive appearance. The colour is white, flushed and striped
with rose.

Mrs. J. Ilammill. — Like the foregoing, this belongs to the incurved
section. The florets, too, are of massive proportion. In colour they are
creamy white, suffused with rose.

Pearl Beauty. — An American seedling, raised in 1892. The florets
are ivory white and heavy in appearance, belonging also to the incurved
section.

Madame AdoljAius Chatin. — As an incurved Japanese, this should
prove valuable to the exhibitor. The florets are broad and pure white ;
with age they become tinged with pink, adding to their appearance.

Middleton Clarhe. — This variety has reflexed florets, rose crimson in
colour ; promising.

Sautel, 1^^^- — Sautel adding the year of introduction to its name
must have thought highly of it. The florets resemble those of Comte
de Germiny in formation. The colour is lilac on the reverse, rose
inside.

Silver Cloud. — An American raised variety, quite unique in point of
colouring, which reminds one of the outer covering of a pale coloured
Mushroom, the florets are broad, and remind one of late flowers of
Mdlle. Marie Hoste in their form.

Niveum. — Dwarf in habit of growth, the florets are strap shaped,
pure white, and full flower.

Madame Isaac. — This is also pure white, the flat sword-like florets
are numerously disposed, making a full solid bloom, quite promising.

H. Hammond Spencer. — Named by Mr. Jones after the Devonshire
exhibitor. It is a full flowered rose lilac bloom.

Dule of York. — The plant is of dwarf growth, carrying very large
blossoms ; the colour, magenta, is showy, suffused with silver. The
points of the flat florets incurve, giving the bloom much character.

Le Prince du Bois. — This was raised and exhibited by Mr. C. Gibson,
which is a guarantee of its worth. The colour is pleasing, rich yellow,
fading to a lighter shade with age. The florets are narrow, twist
slightly at the points, ani have a semi-drooping tendency.

Miss Alice Wilson. — An improved Stanstead Surprise, the colour
being richer, while the blooms have more substance ; a decided gain.

Kentish Yellow. — Perhaps the best of yellows, the florets have an
inclination to incurve. It is devoid of anything approaching coarseness,
the rich colour is decidedly pleasing.

Professor Whitmach. — We have not too many varieties of this
colour — rose magenta, therefore this should become popular with
exhibitors. The reverse is silver, which is plainly seen until the blooms
are fully expanded, as they at first incurve. The blooms are not extra
large, but possess quality.

Primrose League. — This provides the exhibitor with blooms for the
back row, they being extra large. The colour is creamy white, primrose
centre, as the florets develop.

Lizzie Cartledge. — Bright rose pink, reverse silvery white, late crown
buds develop blooms with even flat florets, a trifle pointed, the whole
possessing much merit.

Br. Brigham. — The blooms of this American variety resemble
Avalanche in form, except that it is not quite so compact. The colour
is creamy white, with a blush suffusion at the base. As an early
flowering variety it deserves a place in collections.

Joan Farwell. — Rich crimson, very bright, reverse gold, the florets
narrow and serrated at the points, curling slightly also; a full, solid
bloom.

C. Shrimpton. — This is best described as a dull coloured E. Molyneux.
The florets resemble those of this variety in formation.

T. W. Sanders. — The flowers are delicate yellow, and the florets are
narrow. It is not extra large, but perfect in all other respects.

Alice Seiuard. — Where incurved Japanese varieties are favoured, this
English seedling is well worth growing. The colour of the stout florets
is rosy purple.

Potter Palmer. — This variety was in existence last season, but only
in the hands of a very few growers. It is perhaps the purest white in
existence ; the florets at the base are tubular, those in the middle or
body of the flower are lance shaped. Fully developed blooms measure
8 inches in diameter, and of corresponding depth.

Mrs. Robert Craig. — Another of American origin ; the blooms are
large, pure white, incurved Japanese.

J. Whittle. — Flesh pink, deeper in the centre as the flowers expand ;
promising.

Mrs. A. G. Ramsay. — In colour this is Indian-red, tipped gold,
which passes away with age ; a full promising flower.

Mrs. Hillier. — The florets slightly incurve at the tips ; in colour it
is yellow in the centre, passing to primrose at the edge.

Principe de Trahia. — An incurved Japanese, rosy lilac ; promising.

Robert Owen. — The best of all the incurved Japanese section ; the
florets fold evenly over, forming a regular ball of bronzy yellow.

Japanese Anemone.

Several sterling novelties have been added to this section this season,
rendering this class all the more attractive.

Sir Walter Raleigh. — This is furnished with handsome guard florets,
blush white, with a full rose-coloured disc.

Queen Elizabeth. — Lilac pink guard florets, with deep blush disc.

John Runyan. — The finest introduction in this section for years. It
is best described as having a Gluck centre, with paler coloured long
guard florets.

W. W. Astor. — High rosy yellow disc, tinted blush long flat guard
florets. The above four varieties were raised by Mr. Owen, who is send¬
ing them out.

Large Anemones.

Celtic, — Brassy lilac, full centre, short guard florets.

Hibernius. — Bronze disc, pale yellow guard florets.

Singles.

A few have been added to the list of single-flowered varieties, of
which the following are the most noteworthy ; —

Pattie Penford. — The florets are of medium length, semi-drooping,
and pure white. The disc is high, pale green in colour.

Dolly Varden. — The florets are rose magenta with yellow disc. A
remarkably free flowering variety of dwarf habit.

Rev. W. E. Remfrey. — Purple amaranth, florets cup shaped, very
showy.

Alice. — Creamy white, shaded blush, long flat florets.

Millie Agate. — The base of the florets white, deepening to blush
pink at the edges ; good form.

Hirsute Varieties.

These have increased so rapidly of late that abundant material is
available now to form a separate class.

Hairy Wonder. — This is being sent out by Mr. Jones, and is con¬
sidered by him to be quite one of the best in this section. The florets are
broad, incurve thoroughly, and are more thickly covered with their
hirsute appendages than any other variety. The colour is buff, suffused
v/ith chocolate.

Wm. Falconer. — A sport from Louis Boehmer. In colour it is a
blush pink, changing to lighter shade.

Queen of the Ilirsutes. — Dull red, freely incurved, thickly covered
with hairs.

L' Enfant dts Deux Mondes. — This is a pure white sport from Louis
Boehmer, and certainly the best of all the section.

W. A. 31anda. — Rich orange yellow; points of florets incurve closely.
The body of the flower, though, is rather thin. — E. Molyneux.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

December 12th.

The last meeting for the current year was held at the Drill Hall,
James Street, Westminster, S.W., on the above date. There was a fair
display. Orchids and Chrysanthemums being well represented. Fruit
was also shown in good condition. Being the concluding meeting for
1893 votes of thanks to the Chairmen of the Committees were
unanimously passed.

Fruit Committee. — Present: Philip Crowley, Esq. (in the chair),
and Rev. W. Wilks, Dr. Hogg, with Messrs. H. de Vilmorin, H. J.
Pearson, G. Bunyard, G. W. Cummins, J. Cheal, G. Taber, T. J. Salt-
marsh, W. Warren, A. Dean, W. Bates, A. J. Laing, J. Willard,
G. Wythes, C. Ross, F. Q. Lane, J. Hudson, H. Balderson, G. Sage,
A. H. Pearson, J. Smith, and J. Wright — a large attendance, as is usual
at the last meeting of the year ; also as is usual on such occasions, the
duties of the Committee were somewhat light.

D. C. A. Cave, Esq. (gardener, Mr. J. H. Stevens), Sidbury Manor,
Sidmouth, Devon, sent a seedling Orange, Edith — beautifully shaped,
fruits juicy, and delicious. The leaves attached to the fruits somewhat
resembled those of Lemons. The tree is said to be a free bearer, and
was raised from seed by Mr. Cave. A first-class certificate was
unanimously awarded.

Mr. Owen Thomas, The Gardens, Frogmore, sent a dish of large fruits
of ripe Tomatoes, Frogmore Selected ; also stems bearing fine clusters.
A cultural commendation was awarded, and a desire expressed to see
samples in February.

Messrs. Lane & Sons, Berkhamsted, exhibited seventy dishes of well
kept Apples, including splendidly coloured specimens of Lane’s Prince
Albert. A silver Knightian medal was recommended. Upwards of
thirty dishes of excellent Apples from Messrs. John Laing & Co.,
Forest Hill, were marred in appearance by excessive polishing (bronze
medal).

Messrs. James Veitch & Sons sent very tall Brussels Sprouts with
compact knobs, also bronze, green, and beautifully variegated Kales, and
a vote of thanks was accorded. A small collection of vegetables from
the Society’s Gardens at Chiswick included specimens of the ohristmas
Drumhead Cabbage; heads medium size, round and firm, said by Mr.
Barron to remain in the same condition throughout the winter. The
plants were grown from seed sown presumably in May or early June.
The variety has been grown at Chiswick for seven years wi thout
sustaining injury by frost. It is of French origin, and the leaves dark
green. Mr. Bunyard grows this Cabbage, and values it highly for its
hardiness and excellent quality in winter. An award of merit unani-

December 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

589

mously awarded. Mr, Osman sent a new form of Grape scissors, opening
with a spring ; to be tried with other forms at Chiswick,

Before rising from the table the Chairman thanked the Committee
for their attendance and support during the year. Dr. Hogg returned
the compliment by proposing a vote of thanks to Mr. Crowley for his
ability and urbanity as Chairman. This was passed with acclamation,
and the last of the year’s series of pleasant meetings was brought to a
close.

Floral Committee. — Present : W. Marshall, Esq. (in the chair) ;
Messrs. J. Laing, R. Owen, H. Herbst, R. Dean, H. B. May, C. F. Bause,

G. Stevens, F. Ross, C. Jefiries, P. Barr, T. W. Girdlestone, J. D. Pawle,
W. Furze, W. Bain, T. Godfrey, T. Baines, C. E. Shea, C. Noble, J. T.
Bennett-Poe, G. Gordon, Jas. Walker, G. Paul, and the Rev. H. H.
D’Ombrain.

Messrs, Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park Nurseries, Enfield, staged
a handsome collection of Cyclamens, comprising many splendidly
flowered plants (silver Flora medal). A beautiful group of foliage and
flowering plants was staged by Messrs. J. Laing & Son, Forest Hill.
Prominent amongst the plants in this exhibit were Orchids, Crotons,
Palms, Cyclamens, and Anthuriums (silver Flora medal). An attractive
feature of the show were the Nepenthes shown by Messrs. J. Veitch and
Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea. Particularly noticeable were
N.Northiana, Cbelsoni, mixta, cincta, Amesiana (first-class certificate ; see
below), Burkei excellens, and Morganise (silver Flora medal). Mr.

H. B. May, Dyson’s Lane Nurseries, Upper Edmonton, exhibited a
charming collection of Ferns, in which Lomaria platyptera, Pteris
Victoria, P. tremula Smithiana, Platycerium stemmaria (sethiopica)
first-class certificate ; Nephrolepis davallioides furcans, and Polypodium
nigrescens were the most striking (silver Flora medal). Mr. Robert
Owen, Maidenhead, showed a table of Chrysanthemums in excellent
condition. Amongst the best were Golden Wedding, Viviand Morel,
Abb6 Mendenhall, Secretary Farson, Niveus, Mdlle. Th^r^se Pankoucke ;
Mrs. Marian Bourne, and Good Gracious received awards of merit, and
are described elsewhere (silver Flora medal). A botanical certificate
was accorded to Mr, Bain, gardener to Sir Trevor Lawrence, for a plant
of Massonia amygdalina in bloom. Costus igneus was also staged by
the same exhibitor, and a first-class certificate awarded (see below).
Mr. Bain also showed a basket of Primula Forbesi composed of profusely
flowered plants. A small collection of Chrysanthemums was shown by
Mr. W. Wells, Eailswood Nurseries, Red Hill. Mr. J. R. Tranter,
Henley-on-Thames, staged plants of Nicotiana affinis variegata.

From the Royal Gardens, Kew, came specimens of Manettia bicolor,
Brownea Crawfordi x , Bomarea oligantha, Senecio macroglossus,
Thunbergia (Hexacentris) Mysorensis, Bomarea patacoensis and Calpurnia
aurea, the Natal Laburnum (a vote of thanks was adjudged). Specimens
of Veronica Purple Queen were staged by Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons.
Mr. Balderson, Hemel Hempstead, showed fine blooms of white and rose
coloured Primulas, and also a bunc’n of a rich deep velvety crimson
variety, which has a clearly defined circle round the eye of a much
deeper shade. It is a grand addition to these popular plants.

Orchid Committee. — Present : H. J, Veitch, Esq. (in the chair) ;
Dr. Masters, Messrs. J. O’Brien, De B. Crawshay, H. M. Pollett,
H. Ballantine, C, J. Lucas, T. Statter, E. Hill, J. Douglas, T. B. Hay¬
wood, and J. Jaques.

Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son, Upper Holloway, N., staged a good
collection of Orchids, comprising Cypripediums, Odontoglossums,
Oncidiums, and a few Lselias. The group had a background of
Palms, and Ferns were arranged along the front, the whole making
an effective display (silver Banksian medal). Messrs. F. Sander & Co.,
St. Albans, sent a small group of choice species and varieties.
Amongst these were the beautiful Lselia anceps Sanderiana, L. autum-
nalis alba, Cypripediums in variety, and Zygopetalum rostratum. An
award of merit was adjudged for the last-named plant, which is
described elsewhere (silver Banksian medal). Mons. Jules Hye Lysen,
Gand, sent a plant of Cypripedium fascinatum, a grand form, for
which a first-class certificate was awarded (see below). C. J. Lucas,
Esq., Warnham Court, sent Cypripedium Warnhamensis, evidently a
free flowering hybrid (award of merit). E. Ashworth, Esq., Wilmslow,
Cheshire, staged Lselia anceps Amesiana (figured in the Journal of
Horticulture last week) in good condition, and other Orchids.
W. Wells, Esq., Bloomfield, Sale, had a fine spike of Cattleya
exoniensis which attracted notice. Mons. Linden, Brussels, had a
number of choice Orchids, including Lycaste Imschootiana (award of
merit); L. Luciana (botanical certificate); Lselio-Cattleya Stche-
goleffiana, and Odontoglossum crispum var. Thompsonse (award of
merit). A silver Banksian medal was recommended for the collection.

Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons exhibited a collection of Orchids, including
Cypripediums T. B. Haywood. C. Leeanum, C. OEnone (award of merit).
A botanical certificate was awarded for Dendrobium glomeratum, shown
by Messrs. Veitch. Baron Schroder was awarded a first-class certificate
for Laelio-Cattleya Nyca, which is described below. Messrs. Hugh
Low & Co., Clapton, sent a small group of Cypripediums and Odonto¬
glossums, arranged with Palms (silver Banksian medal). Mr. J. Wythes,
gardener to the Duke of Northumberland, Syon House, Brentford,
staged a splendid group of Calanthes, and a silver Banksian medal
was recommended..

J. F. Ebrer, Esq., Woodlands, Beckenham (gardener, Mr. A. Waite)
was adjudged an award of merit for Cypripedium Sallieri aureum.
T. Statter, Esq., Stand Hall, Manchester, had some Cypripediums, as did
R. J. Measures, Esq , the latter showing C. venustum Measurianum
(award of merit) and Pleurothallis scapha (botanical certificate).

Certificates and Awards of Merit.

Chrysanthemum Good Gracious — A delicate rose-coloured

Japanese, with narrow somewhat twisted florets (award of merit).

Chrysanthemum Mrs. Marian Bourne (R. Owen). — An incurved
Japanese variety, with broad silvery rose-coloured florets.

Costus igneus (Sir Trevor Lawrence). — A fine species, with large,
rich, orange-coloured flowers (first-class certificate).

Cypripedium venustum Measurianum (R. J. Measures, Esq.). — A
distinct form with rather small flowers. The upper sepal is white lined
green, the petals and lip being yellow marked with green. The foliage
is pale green blotched with a darker shade (award of merit).

Cypripedium Warnhamensu (C. J. Lucas, Esq.). — This is a very fine
hybrid, said to be the result of a cross between C. Curtisi and C. laeviga-
tum. The upper and lower sepals are similar in colour, being white
veined with purplish crimson and green. The petals are twisted and
are spotted, and suffused with dark purple. The lip is very large, and
of a bronzy green shade. The plant exhibited bore two flowers on one
spike (award of merit).

Cypripedium fascinatum (M. Jules Hye Lysen, Gand). — This
is a splendid acquisition. The upper sepal large, white, suffused
and spotted crimson, with a green base. The petals are spotted purple,
and also have light purplish tips. The lip is very dark (first-class
certificate).

Cypripedium Sallieri aureum (J. F. Ebrer, Esq.). — This is the
result of a cross between C. insigne and C. villosum. The flowers are
mainly a shining greenish yellow, the upper sepal being spotted brown
(award of merit).

Cypripedium CEnone (J. Veitch & Sons). — The result of a cross
between C. superbiens and C. Hookeri. The upper sepal is white and
green, petals spotted and suffused purple, the lip being bronzy green
(award of merit).

Ltslia Fincherdana (C. W. Fincken, Esq.). — The plant of this that
was exhibited had one spike carrying six flowers. The sepals and petals
are pure white, the lip also, with a broad violet margin on the tip (first-
class certificate).

Leelio- Cattleya Nyca (Baron Schroder). — This bigeneric hybrid is
the result of cross between Lselia crispa and Cattleya gigas, raised by
Messrs. J. Veitch and Sons. It is a magnificent flower with large rosy
mauve petals and sepals. The lip is a rich purplish crimson, and the
t'nroat pale yellow (first-class certificate).

Lycaste Imschootiana (M. Linden, Brussels). — A very distinct hybrid,
being the result of a cross between L. Skinneri and Maxillaria
nigrescens. The flower is a pale yellow shade, spotted crimson. The
lip is a brighter shade than the other parts of the bloom, and the throat
is richly spotted (award of merit).

Nepenthes Amesiana (J. Veitch & Sons). — This is a handsome hybrid
between N. Rafflesiana and L. Hookeriana, the former being the pollen
parent. The pitchers are short and very broad, the ground colour being
green, profusely blotched with deep crimson (first-class certificate).

Odontoglossum crispum var. Thompson^ (M. Linden, Brussels). — A
grand variety of the well-known type. The plant shown bore a splendid
spike of fourteen flowers (award of merit).

Platycerium stemmaria (cethiopica') (H. B. May). — A handsome
species, with large fronds of a bright green, covered with a silvery down
(first-class certificate).

Zygopetalum rostratum (F. Sander & Co.). — An exceedingly pretty
species. The lip is for the most part white, crimson lines starting from
the base. The petals and sepals are white, tipped with pale brown
(award of merit).

National Rose Society.— New Catalogtje Fund.

Such of the subscribers to this fund as have not paid their donations
will oblige by doing so at an early date to Mr. Charles Grahame or Mr.
E. B. Lindsell, the Hon, Secretaries, who wish to close the list.

Protecting Tea Roses.

I find nothing better than a mixture of burnt refuse and light soil.
Three spadefuls of this dropped into the centre of the plant is better, I
think, than the earthing-up system, for to earth up sufficiently must
interfere with the surface fibrous roots, and if there be no such
roots there has been a lack of good cultivation. The burnt refuse, too,
in the spring, when pricked into the soil, serves as a valuable manure.
Light dry litter, straw, or bracken fern should be added later on,
weather demanding. — J. A. W.

Rose Pests and Their Eradication.

It does not much matterl what the time of year may be, we are sure
to be able to find insect pests of some kinds upon Roses carrying young
growth. Even under the most skilful treatment a few can generally be
found. The above fact indicates how very necessary it is to adopt pre¬
cautionary measures early, and although I do not wish to discourage
growers by the formidable list of enemies and diseases it would be easy

540

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 14, 1893.

to name, it may be well to draw attention to a few of the most persistent
pests the Rose is subject to. The whole secret of keeping Roses healthy
and clean is to commence operations early, and I am quite certain that
precautionary measures are invaluable. “I must fumigate soon, I see
there are a few flies about,'’ is a remark a friend of mine made use of
while I was looking through his conservatory a few days ago. This will
not do. Instead of “ soon ” it should have been at once. Why wait
until the enemies have increased before commencing the fight ? And
yet this is the plain truth about delay. Not only is it easier to kill a
few, but we avoid the injury they and their posterity would commit.

There are far too many enemies, and also too many remedies in the
way of insecticides for me to name them all, so I propose to confine
myself to a few general hints. The two most important of these are
immediate operations as soon as the pests are discovered, and the freer
use of insecticides of a weaker nature than usual. A very little should
be contained in all the water the plants are syringed with, and this will
be found a grand check to insect life. A free use of the syringe prevents
any dust or other impurities from settling upon the foliage, and encou¬
rages growth. Green fly, thrips, red spider, scale, and other insects may
be killed easily while in a young state, but when they are allowed to
increase it is difficult to dislodge them. The older insects are also able
to stand against stronger measures than would be safe to use upon the
tender young growths which they affect with such disastrous results.

Among diseases under glass we must name mildew as the worst, but
this can be cured if taken in hand at once. The first point is to decide
upon the cause, and alter that ; when this is done give a free syringing
with a reliable insecticide to which has been added a little flowers of
sulphur. Do not be persuaded into dusting over the foliage with sulphur.
This has an unsightly appearance, is far less effectual, and wastes a
great deal of sulphur. Mis the sulphur in the form of paste previous to
putting it in the solution. It will then be easy to apply if the whole be
kept on the move while using. In dusting the foliage it is impossible to
do it uniformly, or to get the sulphur to adhere to the lower part
of the leaves. This difficulty is surmounted when applied as I have
directed above ; when the foliage dries there will be a very slight dusting
of sulphur left wherever the solution touched, and the unsightly appear¬
ance of dusting is avoided. — Practice.

Messrs. Harkness & Sons’ Roses.

We notice Messrs. Cocker & Sons (page 509) take exception to
“D., remarks (page 494) re classes'.of seventy-two Roses, and wish

to point out that the only exhibitions where during the season of 1893
prizes were offered for seventy-two Roses distinct were Crystal Palace,
Gloucester, Hereford, Bath, Manchester, Wolverhampton, and Worksop,
the first in each case being awarded to us. The class referred to by
Messrs. Cocker at Tibshelf is for fifty varieties, whilst that at Elland is
for twenty-four varieties, so neither are ever referred to in connection
with the great classes of seventy-two distinct.

With regard to the number of times Messrs. Cocker claim to have
met us, there must be some mistake. We only competed against them
at seven shows, four of which were in August, with the result that
sixteen first and one equal first were awarded to Messrs. Cocker, and
seven firsts, and one equal first were awarded to us, including the lead¬
ing prizes at Newcastle and Trentham. At Tibshelf it may be interest¬
ing to state that we were beaten in the largest class by one point only,
the total number of points being 109 as against 108. We were second
for forty-eight distinct, equal first for thirty-six with Messrs. Cocker ;
we were also first for twenty -four blooms. We considered our Roses
quite over by the last week in July, and only attended several of the
August shows in response and repeated invitations from the secretaries.
We feel we owe you an apology for occupying your valuable space for
so trivial a matter. — Harkness & Sons.

Manuring and Transplanting Roses.

I HAVE read with interest the letter under this heading from “A
Lover of Roses” (page 510), and should think a great deal of his advice
is good and sound. But there are one or two points to which I should take
exception. I think it is a mistake (though not an unusual one) to try
to make a top-dressing of manure in the winter act both as food and
protection— as a manure and as a mulch. If meant for a mulch, then
long strawy manure would be better, and dead leaves the best protection
from the frost. And surely the plants themselves require covering
from frost even than more the roots ; and this may be done in a far
cleaner and more sightly manner, and also more readily, with leaves
than with either long or short manure. If meant for food, some good
will be done by the rain permeating the manure, but not much ; you
cannot expect much good from liquid manure in the winter, unless it be
plentiful or very strong.

But it is the “ forking ” in of the manure in spring, after (as “ A
Lover of Roses ” admits) the rain has washed the nutriment out, that
seems to me a great and common mistake. It is a very usual piece of
advice : “ After planting, mulch the surface with manure for protection
against frost ” (some say “ long manure,” which would be the best
protection, but would add to the after uselessness and hopeless struggles
with the fork), “ and ‘ fork it,’ ‘ prick it,’ ” (I have seen “ hoe it ”) “ into
the ground in the spring. Now, it is not only that the manure, being
thoroughly washed and bleached by the rain and snows of winter, can
be of very little service in the ground — but what I want to know is,
how I am to “ fork,” “ prick,” or “ hoe ” in 3 inches of manure, whether
long or short, so as to cover it, and yet not disturb the roots, which are

to be close to the surface, or put the manure in actual contact with
them, which is well known to be prejudicial ?

The roots of my Roses are horizontal and close to the surface, and I
not only should not attempt such a job, but believe it to be of as little
use as another one for which “ A Lover of Roses ” neglects precious
planting time ; and that is, gathering leaves as they fall. I know of no
picture that shows a more striking object-lesson of waste of time than
one I have often seen : a man sweeping leaves on a path or lawn, while
they are in the very act of falling behind him as fast as he gathers
them up. The great bulk of the leaves fall in ten days or a fortnight ;
an army could not keep the place clean during that time ; and in many
places a good sweeping wind, instead of adding to, saves labour eventu¬
ally when the time comes for gathering them up. — W. R. Raillbm.

NATIONAL ROSE SOCIETY.— ANNUAL MEETING.

The annual general meeting of the members of the National Rose
Society was held at the Horticultural Club Room, Hotel Windsor,
Victoria Street, S.W., on Thursday 7th instant. The Rev. W. Wilks
occupied the chair, and there was a large attendance. Amongst others
present were Sir Alexander Arbuthnot, Dr. H. Shackleton, Revs.

F. R. Burnside, Page-Roberts, Foster- Melliar, F. H. Gall, H. A.
Berners, Captain Christy, Messrs. C. J. Grahame, R. Bloxam, C. E.
Shea, Colin Romaine, Cecil Cant, W. J. Jefferies, J. Bateman, F. Cant,

G. B unyard, G. Paul, E. B. Lindsell, G. Prince, J. Cranston, H. Merry-
weather, J. D. Pawle, H. P. Landon, R. E. West, H. Appleby, W. Boyes,
J. Burrell, W. F. Cooling, R. L. Knight, G. Mount, A. Piper, A. Prince,
A. Slaughter, R. H. Langton, G. Moules, W. H. Williams, J. T. Strange,
A. W. Paul, with Rev. H. H. D’Ombrain and Mr, E. Mawley, the Hon, Se¬
cretaries, and Mr. T. B. Haywood, Hon. Treasurer, Messrs. Colin Romaine
and Cecil Cant were appointed scrutineers of the ballot. Following this
the report of the Committee for 1893 and the financial statement were read.
Much discussion followed regarding the date of the provincial Show at
Halifax, and many members expressed their opinions on the subject, Mr.
Lindsell said he had consulted some northern growers, including H. V.
Machin, Esq., of Worksop, and Messrs. Harkness &Sons, Bedale, and they
were in favour of July 12th, being anxious to meet the great southern
rosarians. Mr. F. Cant said that if held on the 19th of July all southern
growers would be excluded. Sir Alexander Arbuthnot, Messrs.
G. Paul, W. J. Jefferies, E. Mawley, and the Rev. H. H. D’Ombrain
were in favour of the latter date, and it was eventually decided, by a
large majority, that the Northern Show of the Society be held at
Halifax on July 19th. The report and financial statement, which
are published below, were adopted.

Report of the Committee for the Year 1893.

The past season, owing to the continued drought and heat, proved
one of the moat disastrous for Roses and Rose shows that has been
experienced for many years, so that notwithstanding the loyal support
of the exhibiting members at the three exhibitions held by the Society,
the blooms staged were, as a rule, much below the average in number,
size, and quality. The competition at the Show of Tea Roses held at
the Drill Hall, Westminster, was good, also in several of the leading
classes at Worksop, but at the Crystal Palace there were fewer Roses
than at any similar exhibition for nine years. In connection with the
Worksop Show, some of the stands exhibited at which were exception¬
ally fine, it should be stated that the success of the Exhibition was
greatly due to the admirable manner in which all the arrangements con¬
nected with it were carried out by the Committee of the Worksop Rose
and Horticultural Society, especial credit being due to Mr. H. V, Machin,
Vice-President, Mr. J. S. Whall, Hon. Treasurer, and Mr. G. Baxter,
Hon. Secretary.

The new catalogue of exhibition and garden Roses was issued to
members early in May last, and appears to have been much appreciated.
Several foreign trade growers have already followed the Society’s lead
in introducing into their own catalogues a separate section for Hybrid
Teas upon similar lines to that adopted in the Society’s catalogue.

It is with much regret the Committee announce the loss the Society
has sustained during the year through the death of one of its Vice-
Presidents — the Rev. J. M. Fuller — whose valuable services as Chairman
at their meetings will be greatly missed. They have also to deplore the
death of Monsieur J. B. Guillot, a recently elected honorary member,
and so well known to rosarians generally as the raiser of many of the
choicest Tea and other Roses in cultivation.

Notwithstanding the great depression in trade which has prevailed
throughout the country during the past year, the number of members
as well as the number of affiliated societies has been well maintained ;
in fact, in no previous year, with the exception of 1892, have the present
numbers been exceeded.

Financial Statement.

The Committee congratulate the members upon the present satis¬
factory financial position of the Society. The amount in hand at the
beginning of the year was £31 IGs, 7d., and now at its close there
remains £81 19s. 3i. to carry forward to the next account, the total
expenditure having been £699 Ss. 3d., while the aggregate receipts,
including last year’s balance, were £781 23. 6d. It should here be
stated that a special fund was raised early in the year among the
exhibitors to defray the cost of printing and binding the new catalogue,
so that no part of the cost of its publication has fallen on the ordinary
funds of the Society. Although more than the usual number of changes

December 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

541

have takea place in the personnel of the non-exhibiting members the
amount received in subscriptions was nevertheless in excess of that of
any previous year,

NATIONAL ROSE SOCIETY.

Balance Sheet, Year ending 30th November, 1893.

Receipts.

1892. £ s. d.

Dec 1. Balance at Bankers . 31167

Subscriptions . 376 14 6

Aflaiiation Fees and for Medals from Affiliated Societies .. .. 96 19 6

Advertisements . 21 78

From Royal Horticultural Society (two years) . 20 0 0

„ Crystal Palace . 105 0 0

„ Worksop . 64 0 0

Special Prizes . 9 0 0

Sale of Catalogues . 4 12 3

New Catalogue Fund . 51 12 0

£781 2 6

Expenditure.

£ s. d.

Printing, Stationery, and Advertising . 55 0 10

Postage, Telegrams and Sundry Expenses . 3931

Secretary’s Travelling Expenses to Arrange Shows . 5 16 6

Expenses Drill Hall Show . 1 17 0

„ Crystal Palace Show . 10 3 0

„ Worksop Show . 680

Medals . 1074

„ for Provincial Societies . 80 4 0

Prizes Drill Hall Show . 41 10 0

„ Crystal Palace Show . 263 3 0

„ Worksop Show . ,. 118 15 0

Assistant Secretary and Accountant . 20 0 0

Printing New Catalogue . 46 15 6

Nov. 30. Balance at Bankers . 81 19 3

£781 2 6

— T. B. Haywood, /Ion. Treasurer.

Arrangements for 1894.

In order to meet the requirements of exhibitors in all parts of the
country, it has been decided by the Committee to hold next year a
Southern Show, a Metropolitan Show, and a Northern Show. The early
exhibition of Tea Roses at the Drill Hall, Westminster, will therefore be
discontinued, and a Southern Show be held instead of it at Windsor,
in connection with the Windsor, Eton, and District Horticultural
and Rose Society, on Wednesday, June 27th. The Metropolitan Show
will take place at the Crystal Palace on Saturday, July 7th, while the
Northern Show will be held at Halifax on Thursday, July 19th, in
conjunction with the Salterhebble and District Rose Society.

Members’ Privileges.

Members subscribing £1 will be entitled to two private view tickets
and four transferable tickets, the latter admitting at the same time as
the general public, while subscribers of lOs. are entitled to one
private view ticket and to two transferable tickets. Each of these
tickets is available for any one of the Society’s Exhibitions. Members
joining the Society for the first time next year will also receive a copy of
the Society’s new descriptive catalogue of exhibition and garden Roses.
Members alone are allowed to compete at the Society’s Exhibitions.

There are two classes of helpers to whom the Committee feel especi¬
ally grateful. In the first place to those local Secretaries who have
either secured for the Society new members, or, where this has not been
possible, have done all in their power to keep within its ranks those
they had previously obtained ; and secondly, to all those who, by the
gift of special prizes or by contributing to the prizewinners’ fund for
the new catalogue, have enabled the Committee to maintain the high
standard of prizes offered in the schedules. Among the local Secretaries
two are worthy of special mention — Mr. C. J. Grahame, late local
Secretary for Croydon, who again secured for the Society a large
number of new subscribers ; and Mr. C. F. Hore, who has for many
years rendered the Society such good service as local Secretary for
Beckenham, and to whose zeal and energy the Society is indebted for
the largest number of subscribers ever obtained by any individual
member of it.

Alterations of By-laws and Regulations.

Following the usual resolutions passing votes of thanks to the Ilort
cultural Club for the use of their rooms during the past year, and to the
officers and other members of the Committee for their services, several
alterations and additions to the by-laws and regulations were made.

Mr. R. L. Knight first proposed an addition to be made to by-law 5,
and after a discussion an amendment was moved by Mr. Bloxam, so
that the addition to the said by-law will now read : “ A general meeting
of the Society may be called at any time on a requisition, signed by not
less than twenty members, being delivered to one of the Secretaries at
least fourteen days prior to the date of the proposed meeting. The
requisition must specify the business for which the meeting is called,
and no other business shall be transacted thereat.” Mr. G. Paul seconded
the proposition, which was carried.

Mr. Lindsell then proposed that by-law 12 should be altered to read :
“ The Society’s regulations for exhibitions, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 1.8, and 14, are
binding on all affiliated societies, and must either be printed in their
schedules, or it must be prominently stated in them that their exhibi¬
tion of Roses is held under the National Rose Society’s regulations.”
Several members spokeon this point, and an amendment was moved by Mr.
Jefferies, making it binding for all affiliated societies to print the N.R.S.

regulations in their catalogues. The amendment, however, on being put
to the meeting was lost, so that the alteration in by-law 12 being
eventually carried by a large majority will read as above.

Mr. G. Paul, after pointing out the necessity of such an alteration,
next moved that regulation 6 be altered so as to read : — “ The following
Roses which are bracketed together are considered synonymous, and
must not be shown in the same stand ; for instance, Marie Finger must
not be shown in the same stand as Eugenie Verdier ; —

Hybrid Perpetuals—
Charles Lefebvre
Marguerite Brassac
Paul Jamaiu
Comtesse de Ohoiseul
Marie Rady
Duke of Wellington
Bosieriste Jacobs
Eugenie Verdier
Marie Finger
Exposition de Brie
Ferdinand de Lesseps
Maurice Bernardin
Sir Garnet Wolseley

Hybrid Perpetuals—
Grand Mogul
Jean Soupert
La Rosi6re
Prince 0. de Rohan

Teas and Noisettes—

■ Alba Rosea
Josephine Malton
Madame Bravy
.Madame de Sertot
' Souvenir de 3. A. Prince
The Queen

•‘The climbing variety of any Rose cannot be shown in the same
stand with it ; for instance. Climbing Devoniensis cannot be shown in
the same stand with Devoniensis.

“ N.B. — In bracketing varieties together, foliage and habit of growth
are not taken into consideration.” This proposition was, after being
duly seconded, immediately unanimously adopted.

Mr. F. Cant moved that an alteration should be made in Regulation 14,
and after some discussion it was proposed that it should read : “ Hybrid
Teas cannot be shown in the classes set apart for Teas and Noisettes, but
may be shown amongst Hybrid Perpetuals, and in the mixed classes.”
Mr. Jefferies seconded this resolution, and it was unanimously carried.

Mr. West next proposed that the following new regulation be added :
“ In all cases where three trusses of each variety are required to be
shown the three trusses must be arranged in the stand triangularly.”
Mr. C. J. Grahame said that in connection with this it would be advisable
to have a clear understanding as to what was really meant by “ triangu¬
larly.” It was a question of more importance than many might suppose.
Some years ago a dispute arose at the Crystal Palace as to what form the
triangle should be — that is to say, whether the base, as it were, ought
always to be at the bottom. The Rev. W. Wilks remarked that, in his
opinion, the triangles would make a better appearance if placed alter¬
nately in the box. After being seconded the motion was carried.

Mr. J. Bateman, on behalf of Mr. A. Dickson, made a proposed alter¬
ation of note respecting “ New Roses,” to read : “ In such classes by ‘ New
Roses ’ are meant those offered for the first time in English nurserymen’s
lists in the spring of a certain year and subsequently ; also named
seedlings and sports not yet in commerce.” A lengthy discussion took
place on this point, and many members expressed their views. Mr.
Ilateman lucidly referred to the importance of the question, but the
Rev. H. H. D'Ombrain thought the existing regulation would do, and
was very unwilling to alter it, being sure Mr. A. Dickson would not
mind if the proposition was not carried, as he had won the gold medals
for new Roses. Mr. Grahame dissented, as did others, including Mr.
E. Mawley, Mr. G. Mount, Mr. Jefferies, and Mr. G. Bunyard, the latter
remarking that some further mark of recognition for new Roses would
be a necessity a few years hence, inasmuch as after the past tropical
summer many seedling Roses would be forthcoming. Mr. G. Paul
seconded the proposition, and it was subsequently carried to read as
above.

Mr. F. Cant, after the above alterations and additions in the by¬
laws and regulations were made, brought forward a personal matter.
He said inasmuch as a report to the effect that Mr. Orpsn had exhibited
Roses from his (Mr. Cant’s) ground had been circulated, he wished to
give an absolute denial to the rumour. He did not think that the
statement had been made maliciously ; but, nevertheless, such would be
damaging to him from a business point of view if not contradicted.

Sir Alexander Arbuthnot deplored the action of the Society in
deciding to discontinue the Exhibition of Tea Roses at the Drill Hall.
He thought that if precautions were taken, and announcement made
through the Press, that the attendance at the Drill Hall on such occa¬
sions would be better. The Rev. Foster Melliar also regretted that no
show of Tea Roses would be held at the Drill Hall next year. The
Rev. W. Wilks remarked, as the matter had been brought forward he
might say, although nothing to do with the present meeting, that the
Council of the Royal Horticultural Society likewise regretted the step
taken, but they had arranged that practically the same amount of
prizes would be offered for Tea Roses at the Drill Hall on the day
previous the Exhibition at Windsor.

The scrutineers having announced the result of the ballot was to the
effect that the house list had been unanimously adopted, a vote of
thanks to the Chairman closed the meeting.

The Annual Dinner.

After the annual general meeting passed off so harmoniously, it
was only fitting that the day should close with the annual festive
gathering, which, after various alterations has come back to its
original day. That the change was appreciated is evident from the
fact that there was a larger attendance than there has been for a great
many years past.

The President of the Society, the Very Rev. the Dean of Rochester,
was unavoidably absent, but his place was ably filled by the Rev, W.

642

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 14, 1893.

Wilks, one of the Vice-Presidents of the Society. The guests included
a large number of both professional and amateur Rose-growers. It is
not the custom at this dinner to have many toasts ; in fact, except the
loyal toasts and that of the Society, all else are excluded. The Chair¬
man, in proposing that of the National Rose Society, congratulated the
members on its success ; a Society which in these days could show a
balance of £81 was indeed in an enviable position. This was in no
slight degree to be attributed to the admirable manner in which the
Committee and officers of the Society have fulfilled their duties. He
therefore proposed prosperity to the National Rose Society, and coupled
with the toast the names of the Secretaries, both of whom responded to
it. After Mr. George Paul had proposed the health of the Chairman,
who briefly replied, the party separated.

THE “KNOWSLEY” SNOW PLOUGH.

As the time of the year is at hand when snow ploughs may be in
request, I am sending a photograph of one which we have found to be a
great improvement upon the rude implement in ordinary use. The
“ Knowsley ” snow plough is, as will be seen by the illustration
(fig. 78), an adjustable machine, and can be readily fixed to suit various
widths of road, up to about 12 feet. There is a slightly projecting plate
of iron fixed to the bottom edge of each side piece, which act as
“shares” in cutting the snow loose from the ground, and a pair of iron
“skates” fixed in the line of draught, and secured to the shafts and
front part prevent the possibility of the implement refusing to act when
it happens to get into a deep drift. As a further aid to that end the

FIG. 78.— THE “ KNOWSLEY ” SNOW PLOUGH.

power is applied, that is the horse is hooked on, not at the extreme
end as is usually done, but a little further back. The draught of
the new implement is much lighter than that of the old pattern.
The plough is shown here with one side extend ed and the other
drawn in.— F. Harrison.

OSIERS.

{Continued from page 273.)

Hitherto the ordinary practice of most growers has been to sell
the rods when cut to persons who peel, sort, and store them. The peeler
requires a considerable supply of labour at a particular period, buildings
in which to store the rods, and capital to enable him to hold the stock
until it is wanted.

The cost of peeling is as follows. Women are paid 5d. per green
bunch. The rods are brought to them by men, who sort, dry, tie, and
store the bunches. Two men will attend to ten or twelve peelers, and
they are paid 2d. per green bunch. A woman will peel from three to
three and a half bunches in a day. The peeling process extends over
eight to ten weeks.

The per-centage and weight of each class of rods produced in a holt
has been estimated as follows : —

Large rods, 35 per cent., 56 lbs. per bunch.

Middle, 40 „ 40-45 lbs. per bunch.

Small, 25 „ 28 lbs. per bunch.

100

Average weight per bunch about 43^ lbs.

It takes three bunches of green rods to produce two bunches of
peeled rods, and the ratio of white rods to green rods will be, approxi¬
mately, 54 j per cent, in weight.

A large proportion of the Osiers grown are sold by the growers in a
green state. In the Cambridge district it has become usual to sell by
auction at so much per acre, the purchaser cutting the crop and carry-
ing it away. Basket-makers frequently contract with growers to take
their green rods at a fixed price for a series of five, seven, or even four¬
teen years. The most common plan is for the grower to cut and sell
green on the spot at the market price of the day. This price has of
late years ranged from Is. 6d. to 2s. 6d. per bunch, and at the present
time the priee is 23. for good rods. Some of the larger growers peel
and store the rods, and sell them when there is a brisk demand . Some,

and an increasing number, combine the business of growing with that
of manufacturing.

White rods are now generally sold by the ton, and the present price
is about £18.

It will be interesting to compare the relative returns to the grower
who sells the raw material and to the intermediary who prepares that
material for the manufacturer. Taking the figures and prices given
previously as a basis, it would appear that a grower who sells his rods
green would receive for an average crop at present prices £15 an acre.
A grower who peels his rods would receive for the same crop at present
prices £34 Ifls. Id.

The details of the calculation are as follows : — Average crop
150 bunches.

A. Grower who Sells Green.

150 green bunches at 2s . £15 0 0

B. Grower who Peels.

150 green bunches yield 100 bunches of
white rods, average weight per bunch
43| lbs. = 1-942 tons at £18 per ton ... 34 19 1

Difierence in gross returns . £19 19 1

The cost of peeling, sorting, and storing has been stated as 7d. pe
green bunch.

150 bunches at 7d . £4 7 6

Add for carriage from holt to peeling yard

Id. per bunch . 0 12 6

Cost of peeling, &c . £5 0 0

This leaves £14 193. Id. to pay the middleman for his outlay of
capital and risks of trade. It would seem, then that at current prices
the value of the crop is divided pretty equally between the grower and
the middleman, and that, as usual, the producer of the raw material
gets very little in proportion to his original outlay unless he prepares
his crop for the artificer.

Of course, in the fluctuation of prices the circumstances are some¬
times less favourable to the man who does the intermediary work of
dressing the raw material.

If the price of green bunches is 2s. 6d. when the price of rods is no
more than £18, the margin between gross reeeipts of the two is reduced
by £3 153., and if the minimum prices of green rods and white rods be
taken the case is very much altered.

150 green bunches at Is. 6d.

••• •••

£11

5

0

1-942 tons of white rods at £10 per ton

£19 8 4

Expenses of peeling and carriage ...

5 0 0

14

8

4

Difference .

£3

3

4

It may, perhaps, be taken for granted that on the average the
dresser or finisher has a good margin between the current price of
the raw material and that of the prepared goods, and that an Osier
grower who has conveniently situated and suitable premises, where a
sufficient supply of labour can be found, has a great advantage over
one who has no choice but to sell his rods as he cuts them, because he
can get the middleman’s profit.

Among other causes of the alleged decline in the osier industry, it
has been said that cane is now largely used in the place of wicker-work
Boxes have taken the place of hampers for the transport of fish.
Barrels are much used for Potatoes, and iron scuttles and sieves are
more common than they were.

There is also said to be some difficulty in obtaining an adequate
supply of labour at the particular period when the peeling must be
done. If that process is not completed before midsummer the quality
of the rods is seriously deteriorated.

A grower states it as his own deliberate opinion that “a holt planted
in a suitable site, well planted, cleaned, and cared for, filled up and
replanted when necessary, has always paid its way, and where the
circumstances allow of peeling the rods a very good result has been
obtained.

(To be continued.)

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

James Carter & Co., High Holborn, London. — Vade Mecum and Seed-
Catalogue for 1894.

W. Cutbush & Son, Higbgate Nurseries, London, N. — Chrys¬
anthemums.

E. & W. Hackett, 73, Bundle Street, Adelaide, South Australia.—
Manual for the Garden and Farm.

Hogg & Wood, Coldstream and Duns. — Forest, Ornamental, and Fruit
Trees, Moses, Clematis, and Shrubs.

J. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill, S.E. — Vegetable and Flower Seeds.

J. R. Pearson & Sons, Chilwell Nurseries, Nottingham. — Chrys¬
anthemums.

W. Wells, Earlswood Nurseries, Redhill. — Chrysanthemums.

December 14, 1893,]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

643

WOKK.fo^ItheWEEK.,

HAEDY FRUIT GARDEN.

Winter Pruning^. — It is desirable to begin and complete this
operation during the present month, as it is better to relieve trees and
bushes of superfluous wood as soon as possible after the fall of the
leaves. Though trees apparently are at rest there is yet a certain
amount of activity prevailing which is seen in the gradual plumping
and swelling of the buds, this process continuing all the winter. If
pruning is deferred until early spring the buds intended to remain are
deprived of much support they might otherwise receive when they
have not to share it with useless growths. Mild, dry weather is the
best time for pruning operations, hard frosty weather the worst. Much
may be done on a slight frosty day, the ground being clean to walk
Hpon, and the work not unpleasant.

Pyramid and Bush Trees. — Trained trees, well established, with the
branches sufficiently wide apart to admit sun and light to each through¬
out the entire length, will need only the side shoots pruning to three
buds, leaving the leading growths about a foot in length, or less if
extension is not desired. Trees in the course of formation, having well
ripened leading growths not too long, need not have these shortened
severely, the removal of the points, which are invariably blossom buds
and would prevent extension, being usually sufficient. Long immature
shoots must be shortened back to firm wood, cutting near to a bud
pointing in the right direction, making a short, sloping cut, which leaves
no snags to die back. Remove dead spurs or wood, and of the spurs
remaining any which are unduly elongated shorten back, also thin out
crowded clumps. The access of light and air to the interior of the
trees will then strengthen weak fruit buds.

Standard Trees, — The mistaken practice of shortening the branches
of fully formed trees to any extent results in filling the interior and
the upper branches with useless shoots. Properly managed standard
trees require little pruning. Rank, gross growths when they appear
may be cut out entirely. Branches extending beyond the bounds which
mark a shapely, well balanced tree are better shortened to where other
branches originate, this preventing the production of strong young
growth likely to crowd the trees and make them unfruitful. Remove
branches crossing one another, as well as those thickly and ill-placed.
The advantages of having the branches thinly disposed, not only in
winter, but in the summer, so that every part can receive the full benefit
of abundant air and light, will quickly be apparent in early and con¬
tinued fruitfulness, thus reducing severe pruning to a minimum.

Coidon Trees. — Upright, diagonal, and horizontal cordon-trained
trees are easily managed, if the proper attention is accorded in the
summer in stopping the side shoots, and, when the full extent of space
is not covered, allowing the leaders to extend. Young trees well
managed in these respects will soon be furnished from the base upwards
with fruit buds. The pruning necessary at this season consists in
reducing to two or three buds the summer-pruned shoots, slightly
reducing elongated spurs, and thinning out where much crowded any
clusters of spurs on aged cordons. As a rule immediately fruit bearing
commences on young cordons over-vigorous growth of side shoots and
leaders will be subdued, but should strong shoots assert themselves
unduly, which cannot be restricted by summer pruning, lifting the trees
when the leaves fall will restore the balance.

Fan-shai)ed Trees. — This form of training fruit trees is one of the
best, because of the readiness with which branches can be replaced. It
admits also of the combination method in the case of stone fruit trees
by which fruit is produced on spurs as well as on young wood of one or
two years’ growth. Morello Cherries, Pe'^ches, Nectarines, and Apricots
produce fruit freely and best on healthy shoots of medium strength
developed the previous season, but they will also bear on spurs. Plums
and dessert Cherries on walls should have the branches well furnished
with spurs by summer pinching, and the intervening spaces occupied
with young wood thinly disposed, which will bear the second year. The
chief pruning, therefore, consists of cutting out the old bearing wood and
training in succession shoots, stopping those not well placed in summer
to form spurs. Plums and Cherries may be pruned now. Peaches,
Nectarines, and Apricots in February.

Bush Fruit. — Birds begin their depredations among Gooseberry and
Currant bushes earlier than many people suspect, therefore it is not well
to prune Gooseberry trees severely, but merely to thin out crowded
shoots and branches, leaving a good proportion of young wood for future
bearing. This may be done now or in spring, but whether the bushes
are pruned or left alone they should be well dusted with soot or lime,
applying either when the trees are wet with dew, fog, or rain. The buds
are thus rendered distasteful to the birds, who in a great measure leave
them alone so long as the bitter deposit adheres to the shoots.

?If Red and White Currants have a great proportion of the buds
picked out on the spurred-in shoots the following crop of fruit will be
light. Cotton or worsted run in lines over the trees will prevent birds
taking the buds, but the best protection is to grow the trees under wire
netting, forming a fruit cage from which birds can be excluded during

winter, and when the fruit is ripe. At other times they should have
free access to the trees, or insects may become rampant. Shorten the
leading shoots of Currants to 8 or 9 inches, the side growths to an inch.
Black Currants may have the old worn out shoots cut away, maintaining
a good selection of vigorous young growths from the base which bear
the finest fruit. No spurring-in of side shoots or shortening the leaders
except where extending beyond bounds is necessary.

FRUIT FORCING.

Vines. — Earliest House. — After the buds break the temperature will
need to be increased to 60'' at night in mild weather, and 55° in severe,
gradually increasing it so as to have it at 60° at night when the Vines
are in leaf, and 70° to 75° by day with moderate ventilation. If there
are evaporation troughs in the house, keep them regularly charged with
liquid manure. Where these do not exist, and there is no fermenting
bed, guano water, I lb. to 20 gallons of water, or the urinary drainings
of stables and cowhouses, diluted with six times the bulk of water, may
be sprinkled on the floor and surfaces of borders in the late afternoon,
two or three times a week. Vines in pots will require more nourishment
as the growth advances, supplying liquid manure at the temperature of
the house. Sprinkle the house two or three times a day in clear weather,
avoiding a very close and too damp or a dry atmosphere. Tie up the
Vines in position as soon as growth has commenced in the lowest buds,
always before the shoots are so long as to be damaged by the process.
Disbudding should not be practised until the fruit shows in the points
of the shoots.

Houses to have Fruit Pipe in, May. — The Vines for this purpose must
be started without delay, for quite five months are necessary to secure
fruit of the early varieties during the winter and spring months. To
facilitate a good break, and to save fuel, a bed of stable litter and leaves
in equal parts, placed on the floor of the house, turning a portion of it
daily, so as to supply ammonia, is useful. The outside border must also
have the needful protection from cold rains and snow, If the roots
of the Vines are mainly inside, a covering of leaves about 6 inches
thick, and a little litter over them to prevent their being blown about
by wind, will afford the needful protection. Where the roots are chiefly
outside a covering of warm litter after the Vines break will materially
assiit root action and the supply of nourishment ; two-thirds leaves to
one- third of stable litter affording a less violent heat, but more lasting
than all manure. This material once put on must be kept at a regular heat
by adding fresh as necessary and removing some of the spent. The
inside borders should be made thoroughly moist, but not soddened, by
applying water, or in the case of weakly Vines, liquid manure at the
mean temperature of the house — preferably 5° in advance of it. It
suffices if the soil is moderately moist until the Vines break. Start with
a temperature of 50° in severe weather, 55° in mild weather, and 65° by
day, except the weather is severe and dull, when 55° will be more
suitable. Maintain a moist atmosphere by syringing the Vines and
house occasionally, but avoid excessive moisture and keeping the rods
dripping wet, for this excites the production of aerial roots from the
rods. Depress young canes to the horizontal position or below to cause
the buds to break regularly.

Midseason Houses. — The Vines will, in most cases, be pruned and at
rest. If not, the pruning and cleansing of the house and Vines should
be attended to without delay, for late pruning favours bleeding and
insect pests immensely. Where the Grapes are partially cut the
remainder may be removed with a good portion of wood attached, and
that inserted in bottles of water, with a piece of charcoal in each, will
keep the Grapes admirably in a dry room from which frost is excluded.
This will liberate the Vines for pruning (it being assumed that the
leaves are all down) and the house for cleaning, repairs and painting.
The Vines ought only to have the loose bark removed, be washed with
soapy tepid water, and afterwards with an insecticide. If they have
been infested with scale or mealy bug add a fluid ounce of petroleum to
a gallon of water in which 4 ozs. of softsoap has been dissolved, and
churn violently with a syringe until the oil is well mixed with
the solution, which is best effected at a temperature as high as the hand
can bear, and then applied in a tepid state to the Vines with a stiffish
brush, reaching well into every angle, crevice, and hole. Remove the
surface soil without disturbing the roots, and supply a top-dressing of
fresh loam about a couple of inches thick, and sprinkle over it a good
handful of bonemeal and a similar amount of wood ashes (from twigs)
per square yard. Both will be diffused through the soil, and be in a
condition for taking up with the roots by the time the Vines start into
growth, when they can be fed with quick acting manures.

Late Houses. — When the foliage is all down fire heat will only he
necessary to exclude frost in dry weather, taking care to admit air
before the sun acts on the house so as to cause moisture to be condensed
on the berries, for in that case the skin of the Grapes will become dis¬
coloured and rapidly decay. A temperature of 50° by artificial means
dries the atmosphere too much to preserve thin-skinned Grapes, such as
Black Hamburghs, in sound condition — that is, without shrivelling.
Muscats, Lady Downe’s and Gros Colman require a temperature of 50°
until thoroughly matured, and then a dry and equable temperature of
40° to 50° will insure their sound keeping, but a close, damp atmosphere
causes the berries of Gros Colman to split and those of Muscat of
Alexandria to spot, and the end of their keeping is then begun.

Potted Trees.— Fox the early supply of Figs experience has
proved the advantage of the pot over the planted out system. Trees in
pots forced early for a number of years become more fruitful as they
advance in age, and they commence growth as the usual time of starting

544

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ December 14, 1893.

comes round in a lower temperature than trees that have not been sub¬
jected to the process. Being grown gradually they retain their
first crop fruits much better than trees forced for the first time, unless
these have been started early in the previous season, so as to make and
complete their growth early, and have time for rest before starting. One
great mistake in the culture of Figs in pots consists in retaining more
trees than can have full exposure to light, for instead of reducing the
number of trees by removing the least appreciated varieties or
duplicates, the whole of the trees first procured are attempted to be
grown in small pots and by reducing the heads. This is not the way to
secure plants of fine Figs, for the extension system of pruning is not
applicable to potted trees, and those that are early forced must not be
crowded. For early forcing Early Violet and St. John’s are excellent
small fruited varieties, White Marseilles and Brown Turkey Figs being
far the best for general supply, and afford an excellent succession.
Trees in pots do remarkably well when afforded bottom heat, the pots
being stood on loose brick pedestals, the roots allowed to extend outside
the pots, and renewed annually. This with copious supplies of liquid
manure, and judicious thinning of the second crop fruits, results in a
satisfactory crop of early Figs, the most important in forcing.

Planted-out Trees. — These are much more luxuriant and have longer-
jointed wood than trees in pots. They are often unfruitful when grown
in a deep and rich soil. To have fruitful trees the border must be
firm, narrow, shallow, and well drained, then the growth will be sturdy,
the foliage thick, the wood stout, short-jointed, hard, and well-ripened.
The border must be composed of well-compacted rather strong loam,
containing plentiful supplies of calcareous and siliceous matter. A
width of 3 feet is ample to begin with, and 6 feet for the largest tree,
and a foot depth of drainage must be provided, having a drain under
(unless the substratum be gravel or other natural drainage) to carry off
superfluous water, placing a 3-inch layer of lime rubbish over it. The
soil may consist of medium textured loam, inclined to be stiff rather
than light, and if not calcareous add a sixth of gravelly marl, a fifth of
old mortar rubbish and a fourth of road scrapings, well incorporated.
If the loam is inclined to clay, omit the marl and add more road
scrapings, if light omit the road scrapings and increase the marl. Put
together firmly when moderately dry, allowing a few inches for
settling.

Trees with single stems are the only suitable ones. They will be in
pots. Eemove and wash away all the soil ; then disentangle the roots,
spread them out evenly, covering about 3 inches with fine soil, and give
a good watering. When the surface has become dry, tread firmly, and
mulch with a little short manure. Fan training is the most suitable.
The house muse be light, face south for preference (imperatively so for
early forcing), and have top and bottom ventilation. The shoots should
be trained about 1 foot from the glass. For a lean-to it is better to
plant the trees at the back and train the growths down than plant in
front and take them up the roof. This insures the light direct into the
points of the shoots, and the fruit is borne freely throughout the length
of the terminals, which produces much finer specimens than stunted
pinched growths.

For general forcing purposes no Fig surpasses Brown Turkey, and it
has an eligible companion in White Marseilles. Negro Largo is very
fine, especially for succession and iate crops, but it must be confined at
the roots. For high quality Black Bourjassotte, Gourand Noir, Monaco
Bianca, and Grizzly Bourjassotte are unrivalled as midseason varieties,
while for late use Col di Signora Bianca and Agen are excellent.
To ripen these well they require fire heat.

i

HE BEE-KEEPER.

■ t: ! ■ » T . i-sT.'t . 1 . 1 j rr |-

APIARIAN NOTES.

The Lanarkshire Storifying Hive.

“ A Sussex Amateur” is desirous of having full information
how to construct the Lanarkshire storifying hive. At an early
date descriptive notes with drawings will be published, which
will enable any amateur to make them, or to materially assist
his tradesman. Meanwhile it is to be hoped no one will
allow himself to be carried away with the idea that a hive of
some peculiar construction should first be procured, and then
large yields of honey will follow without further exertion. The
fact IS, as I have repeatedly shown, as much honey can be had
from a common box or straw hive, as from the most elaborate
frame one. Give them proper attention with ample accommoda¬
tion, and the bees of the abused straw hive will yield to their
owner as much weight or more of a superior quality of honey than
any frame hive of the modern bee-keeper, with the use and the
abuse of combs and extractor. Turning unsealed combs containing
brood, food, and water for larv® into it does not produce that
excellence in honey we were accustomed to in our youth from the
selected combs of the straw hive. The sealings of the comb were
cut and honey allowed to drip through a clean wicker basket and
muslin cloth.

The advantages of frame hives are to be sought for in different
directions than large yields of honey. But in the proper manage¬
ment of superior frame hives the facilities are greater to increase
the yield if given proper attention ; if neglected, then the large
straw hive is superior. The winter problem is thoroughly solved
in the Lanarkshire hive. The bees are all preserved alive in it
during the winter ; breeding goes on uninterrupted and in a healthy
state from the end of December. The bees are always strong,
and ready to gather honey and pollen from any source at the
earliest opportunities. Bees that have been badly wintered in un¬
healthy hives require weeks to make up what they lose in the winter
through dampness and other evils.

A properly constructed hive enables the bee-keeper to add or
diminish its size at will, and to compel the bees to store the choicest
honey where he chooses. He may also delay or prevent swarming
according to circumstances, and to be able in a few minutes to move
them from one place to another, with perfect safety to the bees
and to those attending them. It is possible, too, to pack them when
in transit in little space without any damage resulting to the
hives. The foregoing are only a few of the properties the Lanark¬
shire storifying hive possess, which gives the bee-keeper a slight
idea of what a hive should be like and what it should possess. —
A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

•**A11 correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor ” or to “ The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. AJl
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Communications for Our “ Next Issue ” (J". AT.). — You are

only one of several correspondents who prevent their communications
appearing in the desired “ next issue ” by posting them too late for
that purpose. Only brief and urgent letters arriving on Wednesday
morning can be inserted the same week.

Ctarysantbemum Waban (A/. Molyneux'). — The bloom is very
imposing, being just 30 inches in circumference. Evidently you do
not intend Chrysanthemum growing to become a lost art at Swanmore,
though you have “ given up showing.”

Black Paint for Hot-water Pipes (Y. It. P."). — Lampblack
formed into a thin paint with boiled linseed oil is the best. If the
pipes are made warm before, and kept so whilst the paint is being
applied, it will dry sooner, and air being admitted the smell will not
prove injurious to plants. Only one even coat need be given.

Sawdust from Stables as a Mulch for Fruit Trees (A’. A.). —

Sawdust, after being used for bedding horses, is a good mulch for fruit
trees, as it is rich in ammonia-forming matter. The only danger
attending its use is that of favouring fungi, which may prove injurious
to the roots of the fruit trees, but we have used it without any deleterious
consequences following. It may also be used for Strawberries.

Vine Affected with Mildew (A’. A,). — After washing the Black
Hamburgh Vine with softsoap and water, and thoroughly cleansing the
house, the rod and spurs may be dressed with sulphide of potassium,
1 cz. to a gallon of water, applying with a brush, and reaching well into
every angle and crevice, but taking care not to injure the buds. Lime-
wash the walls, adding a good handful of flowers of sulphur to a pailful
of limewash. Remove the loose surface soil from the border, and
supply fresh loam. If the mildew appear next season dust with flowers
of sulphur.

Specks on Apple (^Efingliani). — The specks are produced by a
fungus called Glmosporium fructigenum. It is rather common this year
on the gritty Pears and hard-fleshed Apples, attacking them later in the
season than usual, but it develops rapidly in the stores. Sulphide of
potassium, half an ounce to a gallon of water, used as a spray or through
a fine-rose syringe when the fruit is about a quarter grown, again when
half grown, and a third time when about three parts grown, is recom¬
mended as a preventive. The fruit should be disposed of, or preferably
destroyed. If the Apples are used the peelings ought to be burned.

December 14, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

546

Creenlsh-whlte Cbrysanthemum (_R. P.). — Mr. Molyneux
says the only variety he knows resembling Florence Davis (Japanese) in
colour is Lord Eversley, a sport from Princess Teck, originating in the
hands of the late Mr. Wildsmith, at Heckfield, in 1887. In formation
it is, like nearly all sports, the exact counterpart of its parent. It, how¬
ever, produces the smallest bloDms of all the “ Teck ” family. For late
flowering it is valuable, and for exhibition, too, where a large number
of varieties is required. Like Florence Davis, the florets are tinted
green when unfolding, but as in the case of that Japanese variety the
blooms are pure white when fully developed. In the case of Lord
Eversley, though, it is the tips of the florets that are green, in the other
referred to it is the centre of the flower.

IVXlcioscope for Examlnlner Bacteria (P. P.). — To show the
bioplasm or living matter growing and multiplying in the bundles of
fibrous tissue in animals, or in the cells of plants, a power of 700
diameters is necessary ; while to differentiate or show the very minute
particles of the contagious living matter or bioplasm a lens magnifying
1800 diameters is required ; but to distinguish the malignant from the
useful bacteria, and refer each to its specific character, a power of 5000
diameters is absolutely essential. This implies a knowledge of bac¬
teriology, attainable only by a long course of study and acquirement of
the distinction between fungal and bacterial ferments, which in many
cases, especially in plants, is only determinable by cultures.

Sunday Work In Gardens (M. E, C.'). — Our correspondent
could not have been aware of what you state, and, we Lope, exaggerate.
We cannot understand that any gentleman countenancing such Sunday
work in his garden as “ hoeing between Beet, hacking Potatoes, ‘ warter-
ing ’ Lettuce plants ” (you should learn to spell ‘ watering ’) “ syringing
Peas, Cherry trees, and doing such like work.” We are of opinion that
all unnecessary labour should be avoided in gardens on Sundays. Your
letter is so faulty in grammar that it cannot be inserted. You say our
correspondent does the work indicated, though you no doubt intended
your allegation to apply to the gardener whose work he described.

Iilquld IVIannre In Winter for Vines (TF. Laio). — As you
say the border is poor, and you could not obtain sewage until now,
by all means use it at once provided the site is naturally or artifi¬
cially drained so that superfluous water passes away freely. Some of
the most profitable Vines we know, and which have afforded splendid
Grapes that have won leading honours at the best shows this year, are
made so in part (and the grower believes it a considerable part) by
applications of liquid manure on favourable occasions during the winter.
It can be used with advantage much stronger, during what is known
as the resting than the growing period of Vines and fruit trees.
Do not miss the opportunity of applying it to anything that needs
manurial support.

House for Fruit and Chrysantliemums (TF. II. M."), — 1, The
house will answer as regards aspect, but it is somewhat narrow, for
with a path up the centre there will be a 4 feet 6 inches border on
each side. This is quite wide enough for the trees with liberal feed¬
ing. You may have a tree on each side. Dymond and Royal George
are excellent Peaches, planting the first on the south-east, and the
latter on the north-west aspect. 2, Pears are not suitable on account
of the heat in winter. 3, A flow and return 4-inch hot-water pipe
along both sides would be sufficient, the pipe not needing to be highly
heated. 4, The pipes may be fixed about 6 inches from the wall.
5, A 3-feet wide border would answer for cordon or “ U ” trained
trees, and it would then be a better arrangement as regards the
Chrysanthemums, as they would then have the centre of the house.

lUClneral Constituents of Pears, Plums, and Strawberries

(Dm.). — The differences between the per-centages of ash and mineral
matter have no connection whatever with each other, as they refer
entirely to different subjects. To give a detailed analysis of Apples
would enhance the value and add to the expense tenfold, which no
analytical chemist, as a rule, gives, for the simple reason that few
care to pay for so elaborate an analysis of fruit. Pear : Potash,
54'69 ; soda, 8‘52 ; magnesia, 5 22 ; lime, 7'98 ; phosphoric acid, 14'28 ;
sulphuric acid, 5'69 ; silica, 1-49 ; iron, 1-96 ; chloride of sodium, trace.
Plum : Potash, 59 21 ; soda, 0’54 ; magnesia, 5 46 ; lime, 10’04 ; phos¬
phoric acid, 12-26 ; sulphuric acid, 3-83 ; silica, 2 36 ; iron, 6-04 ;
chloride of sodium, trace. Strawberries : Potash, 21 07 ; soda, 27-01 ;
magnesia, trace ; lime, 14 21 ; phosphoric acid, 8-59 ; sulphuric acid,
315; silica, 12-05; iron, 11-12; chloride of sodium, 2-78. The per¬
centages of potash and sodium vary in fruit from different soils as
they are interchangeable by the Strawberry. The albuminoids in
Pears are 0 3 ; mineral matter, 0 3. In Plums ; Albuminoids, 0-5 ;
mineral matter, 0‘4. In Strawberries : Albuminoids, 0 3 ; mineral
matter, 0 2.

Vines for a House without Fire Heat (D. B.'). — The variety
you name is not desirable for the purpose indicated. Chasselas Vibert,
Early Smyrna Frontignan, and Foster’s Seedling (white Grapes), also
Black Hamburgh, Black Prince, and Madresfield Court (black Grapes)
succeed in unheated houses farther north than the MidlanJs in favour¬
able localities and seasons, under judicious management. This mainly
consists in husbanding the sun’s heat after the Vines start into growth,
allowing them to do this naturally — that is, not coddling them in the
spring, but ventilating fully, so as to prevent growth before April, then
pushing them ahead by judicious early closing, especially after the
Grapes are set and until they are veil ripened. At the same time we

consider that structures for growing Grapes in are incomplete if pro¬
vision is not made for affording artificial heat.

Hames of Fruits. — Notice. — We have pleasure in naming good
typical fruits (when the names are discoverable) for the convenience of
regular subscribers, who are the growers of such fruit, and not col¬
lectors of specimens from non-subscribers. This latter procedure is
wholly irregular, and we trust that none of our readers will allow
themselves to be made the mediums in infringing our rules. Special
attention is directed to the following decision, the object of which is
to discourage the growth of inferior and promote the culture of superior
varieties. In consequence of the large number of loorthless Apples and
Pears sent to this office to he named, it has been decided to name only
specimens and varieties of approved merit, and to reject the inferior,
which are not worth sending or growing. The names and addresses of
senders of fruit to be named must in all cases be enclosed with the
specimens, whether letters referring to the fruit are sent by post or
not. The names are not necessarily required for publication, initials
sufficing for that. Only six specimens can be named at once, and any
beyond that number cannot be preserved. They should be sent on the
first indication of change towards ripening. Dessert Pears cannot be
named in a hard green state. (_T. J., Watford.'). — We think the
Apple is Warner’s King. (//. D.). — The most careful dissection does
not reveal the name of the Apple, and it may be a local seedling.
(TF. <?.). — Wyken Pippin undoubtedly.

Hames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligafures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp^
(F. H.). — Anthurium Andreanum. {Young Gardener). — 1, Agave
americana ; 2, Yucca filamentosa ; 3, Kencia Canterburyana ; 4, Sea-
forthia elegans. {Amatexer). — Jasminum nudiflorum. (AT. P.).—
Impatiens Hawkeri.

OOVENT GARDEN MARKET.— Decembee 13th.

TbADE very quiet.

Apples, per bushel .. ,.

Cobs .

Grapes per lb .

Lemons, case .

Beans, Kidney, per lb.

Beet, Ked, dozen .

Carrots, bunch .

Cauliflowers, dozen . . . .

Celery, bundle .

Coleworts, dozen bunches
Cucumbers, dozen . . . .

Endive, dozen .

Herbs, bimch .

Leeks, bunch . . , , . .

Lettuce, dozen .

Mushrooms, punnet . . . .

FBHIT,

s.

d.

s.

d.

d.

a.

d

2

0 to 7

6

Peaches, per doz .

0

0 to

0

0

35

0

40

0

Plums, per half sieve . .

0

0

0

0

0

6

2

0

St. Michael Pines, each , .

2

0

6

0

10

0

15

0

VEGETABLES.

s.

d.

s. d.

s.

d.

8.

d.

0

3

to 0

4

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

-2 to

0

0

1

0

0

0

Onions, bunch .

Parsley, dozen bunches , .

0

3

0

0

0

4

0

6

2

0

3

0

2

0

3

0

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

6

1

0

1

3

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

4

6

2

0

4

0

Salsafy, bundle .

1

0

1

5

1

0

3

6

Scorzonera, bundle . . . .

1

6

0

0

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb .

0

3

a

0

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel .

8

0

0

0

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

7

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

6

0

9

1

0

AVERAGE WHOLESALE PRICES.— GUT FLOWERS.

Orchid Blooms in variety . Chrysanthemum blooms very plentiful this season, hence

the price is very low.

s. d. 8. d

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms .. 3 0 to 5 0

Azalea, dozen sprays .... 1 0 16

Bouvardias, bunch .. ..0 6 10

Camellias, dozen blooms ..10 30

Carnations, 12 blooms .. 0 6 2 0

Chrysanthemums, dozen

bunches . 20 60

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis. 0 6 2 0

Eucharis, dozen . 4 0 6 0

Gardenias, per dozen ..2 0 4 0

Lilac f French') per bunch 3 6 6 0

Lilies of the Valley, dozen

sprays . 2 0 40

Lilium lancifolium, dozen

blooms .

1

0

3

0

Lilium longiflorum, per

dozen .

6

0

9

0

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

bunches .

4

0

6

0

Marguerites, 12 bunches . .

2

0

4

0

Mignonette. 12 bunches

3

0

6

0

Narciss, Yellow (Frenca),

dozen bunches .

3

0

4

0

s. d. s. d.

Narciss, White (French),

dozen bunches . 2 0 to 3 0

Orchids, per dozen blcoias 3 0 12 0
Pelargoniums, 12 bunches 6 0 9 0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

bunches . 40 60

Primula (double), dozen

sprays . 0 6 10

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches 2 0 4 0

Roses (indoor), dozen ..0 6 16

„ Tea, white, dozen ..10 20

„ Yellow, dozen .. .. 2 0 4 0

Roses, Safrano (French),

per dozen . 09 16

Roses, Safrano (French),

per 100 16 30

Tuberoses. 12 blooms. . .. 0 4 0 6

Violets, Parme (French),

per bunch . 2 6 3 0

Violets, Czar (Preach), per

bunch . 2 0 2 6

Violets (English), dozen
bunches . 16 2 0

PLANTS

s.

6

18

5

4

1

Arbor Vit® (golden) dozen
Aspidistra, per dozen
Aspidistra, specimen plant
Chrysanthemums, per doz.

„ large plants, each
Drac®na terminalis, per

dozen .

Drac®na viridis, dozen . .
Ericas, per dozen
Enonymus. var., dozen . .
Evergreens, in var., dozen
Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

d. s.

0 to 12

36

10

9

2

42

24

18

18

24

18

IN POTS.

8.

Ferns (small'i per hundred 4
Ficus elastica, each .. .. 1

Foliage plant?, var., each.. 2
Lilium Harrissi, per dozen 12
Lycopodiums, per dozen . . 3

, Marguerite Daisy, dozen .. 6

Mignonette, per doz . 6

Myrtles, dozen . 6

Palms, in var.. each .. .. 1

„ (specimens) .. ..21

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz. 2
Solanums, per dozen.. .. 9

d. 8. d.

0 to 6 0

0 7 6

0 10 0

0 24 0

0 4 0

0 12 0

0 9 0

0 9 0

0 15 0

0 63 0

0 0 0

0 12 0

546

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 14, 1893.

PROFITABLE LIVE STOCK.

Le?son of the Cattle Show,

For an easy, enjoyable, and instructive comparison of breeds
in full development, or far on the way thither, the winter
show of fat stock at Islington is altogether preferable to the
summer meeting of the “ Royal,” simply because at the
Agricultural Hall the classes are so near each other and are
so accessible that comparison is easy, and a useful critical
inspection really possible.

Among the cattle the chief points of interest are early
development, symmetrical forms, and large size. Taking the
dictum for our guide of Sir John B. Lawes, that as a certain
amount of food is consumed every day by an animal for
respiratory and other vital functions, it is evident that the
quicker an animal is fed for the butcher the less total amount
of food he will consume, weight, age, and general appearance
all have attention. Among the Shorthorns in class 11 for
steers not exceeding two years old, the Queen’s first prize
handsome steer, weighing 14 cwt. 9 lbs., and one year eleven
months three weeks old, was a marvellous example of early
development. The weekly average weight from birth to show
entry being about 15i lbs., bears favourable comparison with
that of another of Her Majesty’s prizewinners. Prince Charlie,
weighing 2O2 cwt. at the age of three years six months two
weeks, or a weekly average of about 12^ lbs. This grand beast
was so symmetrical that it not only took first prize in the class
for Shorthorn steers above three and not exceeding four years,
beating Mr. J. W. Rowland’s huge second prize steer, weighing
22 cwt. 2 qrs. 18 lbs., and Lord Tredegar’s third prize beast,
weighing 20 cwt. 3 qrs. 21 lbs., but it was awarded the breed
cup, the £50 cup as best male among the cattle, and the
reserve ticket for the championship. A marvellous sight were
these three magnificent animals, each of them over a ton live
weight, but apart from prizewinning, and regarded strictly
from a commercial point of view, the younger steer bears away
the palm from all of them.

That the judges were not influenced by mere weight was
also evident in the contest for the championship between Prince
Charlie and Mr. J. D. Fletcher’s polled Aberdeen, Angus
heifer. Pride of the Highlands, two years and eleven months
old, and weighing 17 cwt. 2 qrs. So excellent were both of
them that it was only after the most deliberate inspection and
discussion of every point that the judges decided in favour
of Pride of the Highlands, which was also first in its class,
and winner of the breed cup.

Excellent examples of early maturity were there in other
breeds, as, for example, Mr. T. H. Risdon’s first prize Devon
steer, one year eleven months two weeks old, weighing 1 1 cwt. ;
Lord Coventry’s first prize Hereford steer, one year seven
months old, weighing 11 cwt. 25 lbs. ; Mr. J. Godman’s first
l)rize Sussex steer, one year ten months three weeks old,
weighing 12 cwt. 26 lbs. ; Mr. R. Turner’s first prize polled
Aberdeen-Angus steer, one year ten months old, weighing
11 cwt. 2 qrs. 2 lbs. ; and a ci’oss-bred steer, for which Mr. John
Boss had first prize, a very compact polled beast, black and
white in colour, with Aberdeen-Angus blood largely predomi¬
nant, one year eight months one week old, weighing 12 cwt.
1 qr. 12 lbs. All of them were in the classes of their respective
breeds for steers not exceeding two years. Though the cross¬
bred steer has some advantage over the pure-bred animals in
weight, we were not favourably impressed by the appearance of
it or any other cross-bred cattle in the Show. They had an
inferior appearance that suffered very much by comparison
with the pure breeds.

For condition, form, and finish there was nothing to equal
the attractive and picturesque Herefords. Their white faces*
red coats, evident ripeness, and symmetry showed how entirely
they were worthy of the high rank assigned them among our
best cattle, and how well they repay for careful tending and
judicious feeding. We were probably more imp-essed by them
because we had seen many of the same breed out of condition —
victims of the drought — at Guildford Market on the previous
day. One of the most handsome beasts in the Show was Mr.
John Wortley’s first prize Hereford, in the class for steers not
exceeding three years old. It was two years seven months old,
and weighed 16 cwt. 26 lbs., gaining also the breed cup. Our
note of it was “a fine compact beast — a picture ! ” Very hand¬
some, too, was the Queen’s first prize Hereford heifer, weighing
12 cwt , at the age of two years seven months. Mr. R.
Edwards’ second prize heifer, a month younger than Her
Majesty’s, weighed nearly 2 cwt. more, and was, we thought, the
finer animal of the two ; and the heaviest Shorthorns had no
mean rival in Mr. F. Platt’s Hereford steer, weighing
20 cwt. 2 qrs. 24 lbs. at the age of three years ten months.

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

Recent inquiries about eggs in winter show how little progress is
made in a matter wherein success depends upon details of management,
and not upon exterior influences. Where the supply has fallen off for
want of pullets coming in to lay now, nothing can be done till next
season, unless, indeed, more pullets were purchased at once, which
would prove to be an expensive affair. Bat if there is a cessation of
laying by the April or May hens of the current year, it is probably
owing to the use of improper food and a want of shelter for the poultry
both by day and night. Remember that fowls go to roost early now,
often by or before 3 P .M. At least, on alternate days, preferably daily,
they should have some warm food about 2.30, consisting either of oat¬
meal or barleymeal, or both in mixture. In Sussex it would probably
be oatmeal, in the eastern counties barleymeal ; which of them has pre¬
ference is immaterial, the point of real importance is that they have
the food warm. Some very successful poultry keepers prefer whole
corn. We do not object, only the meal can be prepared simply by
mixing it with hot water, while the whole corn require a saucepan in
which it is placed, almost covered with cold water, which is then made
to just boil, then withdrawn slightly from the fire for an hour so as to
keep hot, and cause the corn to swell without any more boiling.

When they come down in the morning they have a warm breakfast,
and then run into a long shed open to the south, having plenty of dust
on the earthen floor. Here they have some corn. Wheat, Maize, or
Barley thrown among the dust to busy them, but this is only in calm
weather; On very rough cold days they are kept in the snug poultry
house, which is quite clean, has plenty of light, not a chink or hole
of any sort, nor openings along the eaves to admit draughts ; warm
food is then given them at dawn of day, at about eleven, and again
about three hours before they go up to the perches.

We have now an excellent supply of rich-looking brown eggs from
Wyandotte pullets, which are excellent. Minorcas and White Dorkings
have also supplied ns well with winter eggs, mainly because of shelter
and warm nourishing foods.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamdkn Squarb, London.

Lat.51° 32' 40" N. : Loag. 0° 8' 0" W.; Altitude. Ill feet.

Date.

9 A.M.

In the Day.

a

1893.

December.

1 Barometer

at 32®, and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday 3

30-422

24-5

23-8

S.W.

39-7

41-3

20-1

45-3

20-5

0 010

Monday . . 4

30-220

41-1

40-4

S.W.

38-3

46-5

23-9

53-1

24-4

—

Tuesday . . 5

30-366

39-9

37-6

N.E.

38-9

43-8

37-9

49-4

30 9

—

Wednesday 6

30-172

43-4

42-2

S.W.

39-1

49-3

37-1

56-2

32-4

0-058

Thursday . . 7

29-747

45-9

44-4

W.

41-0

46-9

43-1

66-9

39-9

—

Friday . . 8

29-480

45-2

43-9

S.

41-3

49-6

36-2

50-8

29-4

0-441

Saturday . . 9

29-358

39-9

38-9

S.W.

41-9

44-2

39-6

63-1

35-9

—

29-966

40-0

38 7

39-9

45-9

34-0

54-8

30-5

0 509

REMARKS.

3rd. — Frequent bright sunshine in morning, and at times in afternoon; fair evening;
cloudy night.

4th. — Cloudy with occasional faint sunshine in morning ; bright for about an hour at
midday ; dull and drizzly from 8 P.M. 6th. — Fair, but almost sunless.

6th. — Fair with occasional faint sunshine ; drizzle and spots of rain in evening.

7th. — Showers early ; bright sunshine from 9 A.M., andalmost cloudless from 11 A.M.

8th. — Overcast early ; frequent drizzle from 8.30 A.M. ; rain from noon, and heavy rain
at 2 P.M. ; fair after 3 P.M.

9th. — Rain from 0.80 to 2.30 A.M., and at 5.30 A.M. ; cleared after sunrise, and bright sun
from 10 A.M. ; almost cloudless night.

Barometer and wind variable, temperature slightly below the average. — G. J. SIMONS.

December 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

647

r Hi? ^ -

H J

CHURCH DECORATIONS AT
CHRISTMAS.

AS the festive season of Christmas approaches, bringing with it
feelings of universal gladness, long-parted friends and relations
gather once more around the family board, or perchance lift up
their voices in thankfulness and praise within the sacred walls of
the church of childhood’s days. On these befitting occasions it has
long been the widespread custom to embellish the interior of our
sacred edifices with evergreens, berries, and flowers. In so many
instances the execution of the lion’s share of this kind of work falls
to the gardeners that it may without further explanation be classed
among their multitudinous duties. Having had a considerable
amount of experience at this work, I trust a few remarks on the
subject may prove useful to many at the present time.

A prominent feature in church decorations, especially in those
instances in which stately pillars or beautiful Gothicarches abound, is
produced by tracing the outlines of the latter, and encircling the
former, with wreaths made of evergreens of various description?!
These, if well made, are always effective, even if many kinds of
foliage are mixed up in an indiscriminate fashion ; but in order to
avoid sameness and produce distinct features, if the work is carried
out on an extensive scale, certain portions of it should be done with
one or two kinds of foliage only, and others with entirely different
material. In this way special features are created, for the lack of
which many examples of decorative work are greatly marred. I
will here give a few illustrations of my meaning, which of course
are not advanced as the only methods of securing the desired effect,
but are given to show the plan of action by which monotony may
be avoided.

The dark coloured oak of which choir stalls are frequently
constructed may be effectively decorated by employing Variegated
Holly or shoots of Aucuba japonica formed into wreaths and
fastened around their outlines. Stone pillars, which are generally
light in colour, look exceedingly well if encircled with wreaths
made of sprays of Ivy surmounted with berries. Holly with
green leaves and red berries, or a combination of Portugal Laurel
and light sprays of Yew, are equally suitable for the purpose. The
angles formed by the outer walls and ceiling require as a rule
the heaviest wreaths. These may, therefore, have a great variety
of materials employed in their construction. Laurel, Yew,
Box and Holly answer the purpose admirably. Whenever there
is a considerable amount of bare wall below the base of the roof,
wreath festoons should be arranged from it at intervals of from
3 to 6 feet. The wreaths to fit in the angles ought to be made
flat ; those for festooning round, and be so arranged that they are
fullest in the centre, gradually tapering to the point where they
are fastened to the wreath above. Arches which have a series of
grooves cut in the stone of which they are made, generally require
a rather heavy wreath fitted round the outer groove, and a much
smaller and round one made of Box, arranged in the groove nearest
the under side of the arch.

A most finished way of decorating large arches is to treat them
as already described, and in addition procure stout iron rods, have
them bent to the shape of the arch, and by means of iron clips at
the base and apex fasten them in position so as to join the frame¬
work of another arch 1 foot below the arch proper. Before
placing finally in position, these irons should be covered with Holly
or other stiff evergreen, and when fitted up have baskets of Ferns

No. 704. — VoL. XXVII., Third Series.

suspended from the apex and base. The effect is then exceedingly
good. Those who have not yet tried this plan, I would strongly
advise to do so.

In making wreaths of all kinds the thickness of string should
be regulated by the diameter of the wreath to be made, and in all
instances I prefer wire for binding the shoots to the string. The
kind of wire obtained on reels is scarcely thick enough for the
purpose, but I have no difficulty in obtaining rolls of iron or brass
wire of exactly the right thickness. It is wound on reels as
required, being much handier for use in that form. Bunches of
Helichrysums of various colours are extremely useful for fastening
at intervals along wreaths in the most conspicuous positions.

One of the most tedious branches of the work of church
decoration is that of arranging letters in the form of texts on
substances of various descriptions and shapes. A framework of
board with scarlet cloth stretched across it is a favourite and effective
method of forming the groundwork, and letters cut out of stiff white
paper look well upon such a groundwork. I used to find it a
rather difficult matter to cut out the letters in good form ; that
difficulty has, however, been overcome by getting the printers to
stamp the required letters on paper with their largest type, it is
then an easy matter to cut them out correctly. Perhaps the most
effective white letters are those formed of cotton wool which has
been split asunder, so as to leave a rough side to the front. When
these are used I cut out the letters in paper, and then mark the
wool under them. Letters may also be formed of gilt paper, as well
as paper of other colours. Holly berries. Holly leaves, or leaves of
many kinds, gum, cotton, or tacks being the material employed for
securing them to the groundwork. Holly leaves or small twigs of
Yew are generally employed to form a border round devices on
which texts have been fastened. Rough w'ooden frameworks
formed of laths crossing each other in such a way as to form a
series of diamonds, if covered with Laurel leaves, which may easily
be fastened with tin tacks, provide an easy method of covering bare
spaces of wall, or for making temporary screens of an ornamental
character. Holly berries or bunches of Immortelles should be
fastened at the points where the laths cross each other.

The pulpit and lectern require especial attention in the matter
of decoration. To do this effectwely whatever materials are employed
for the purpose should be so arranged as to trace the outline of
panels and beading. Strips of brown paper or canvas are the most
generally useful for fastening the materials to. I have some¬
times secured an excellent effect by covering such strips with
Holly or Laurel leaves, and then dotting them at intervals
alternately with small circles of red berries and tufts of grey
lichen (obtained from old Apple trees), the centre of the panels
being covered with cotton wool, supporting interwoven letters
worked out in red Holly berries. The berries and lichen are
easily fastened in position by the aid of rather thick gum.

Many fine examples of windows of various types may be met
with in our ancient Churches. These when tastefully decorated add
much to the general effect from an artistic point of view, yet
strange to say, the embellishment of windows usually receives but
scant attention, beyond encircling the surrounding rim of wall in
a wreath of evergreens. When all of them cannot be well done,
a few of the most prominent should receive special attention.
The largest and most conspicuous is usually immediately above
the Communion Table. This has generally a wide sloping ledge,
upon which a most pleasing effect may be produced by the employ¬
ment of cut flowers and pot plants. A shallow tin about 2 inches
wide should be fitted along the front of the ledge, and a ground¬
work of Ferns in pots be arranged over the remaining space. This
groundwork may be dotted thinly with graceful Palms, some plants
of Poinsettia, or Scarlet Pelargoniums, and Roman Hyacinths ; but
few will be required even for the largest windows, as overcrowding is
the great thing to avoid. This finished, the tins may be filled with
water and arranged with flowers and greenery ; scarlet is the most

No. 2360.— VoL, LXXXIX., Old Series.

548

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December SI, 1893.

suitable colour. Smaller windows may be quickly done by placing
a Palm or Dracaena in the centre, covering the foot, and the
remainder of the window-ledge with a mound of moss, dotting this
with berried Holly, Immortelles, or flowers. In doing this work
to the best of our ability something is contributed towards the
liappiness of others, which helps both worker and beholder to
realise the hidden meaning of the time-honoured greeting — “ A
Happy Christmas ! ”

Much more might be written on this subject, but I have
■endeavoured to set the inventive faculties of Journal readers at
work in such a way as to enable them to create novel and beautiful
combinations for themselves. — Decoeatok.

THE FRUIT-KEEPING QUESTION.

Foe one reason do I again return to this question — namely, to
point out to “ A. D.” (page 527) that ho has not shown his usual
perspicacity in looking at the arguments of those with whom he
•appears to differ, or exhibited that impartiality of judgment that
.generally characterises his writings. He has been so anxious to
demolish his neighbour’s theory that he has not made himself
thoroughly conversant with it, or if so, he has not been
generous enough to give his neighbour the benefit of that aquaint-
ance. I leave the defence of the theory set up by your other
■correspondents and myself in better hands than mine if they care
■to go over the ground again, or to enlarge the question by other
arguments.

It will be sufficient for me to call “ A. D.’s ” attention to this
fact that I did not “ jump to my conclusion as to the sap theory
with a real rush,” but that I arrived at it by slow and painful
■degrees ; and for this reason, because it was those early Pears which
swelled “ after the rains came,” and which , by their season, had
to be gathered whether or not, that were the soonest decayed,
and deficient in quality. Having, as he thinks, tripped me up
about Pears, he attempts to do so as to Apples. I said Apples were
-keeping well, and so they are, the late ones, and for that very reason
I said we gave them as long a time to mature as we could, in
order that the rush of sap into the fruits might be converted from
the crude watery elements of its first stage into the ripened juices
of the perfect stage. Is there anything wrong in that ?

Fruit gathered with sap in it which had not been elaborated
would mean an early corruption of it, just as fruit gathered after
the elements had by time chemically changed that crude sap into
conservative juices would keep, unless fungus or other decaying
agencies were at work. That is how I look at it. It is perhaps a
very simple way of doing so, and not quite that of these fin de siecle
<iays. Nevertheless, as a gardener of the older school, and one that
has been a reader of the Journal of Horticulture for forty years
this very year, I am not ashamed of it, because I gathered it first
from my early teachers in the old Cottage Gardener, and have seen
no reason in all that time to alter it by a long fruit experience.
I think if “A. D.” will read back he will see that his charge
against me of hasty, illogical, and unpractical deductions of a
theory is not a sound one, and if he will kindly re-read my notes,
I think even he will agree that it is scarcely a generous one. As I
said before, so say I again, “ A . D.” is usually so fair in his judg¬
ment that I am sure he will do me this justice.

As the blessed time of “ Peace on earth ” is here — sentiment¬
ally, if we do not make it practically so — I wish him, and all
readers of the Journal of Horticulture, but especially our chief and
his most efficient assistants, and the old writers (not many left
now !) and the young writers (more power to them !), a very
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, when it comes. We of
the generation which looks back along the years we have been
together, and miss the old names in the pages of our Journal, do
so with a deepening sadness at the remembrance of the loss of
their steadfast lives and practical teachings ; but also with much
satisfaction that their “ prophet’s mantle ” has fallen on to most
worthy shoulders of the present day ; and so with calm cou age
we settle down to doing the day’s duty as best we can in our
coming days, be they many or few. — N. H. P.

[We are sure that both old friends and new writers and readers
will reciprocate the kindly sentiments so felicitously expressed,
and hope that “ N. H. P.” has yet many happy new years to
come ]

My opinion for Apples not keeping well in some instances this
year is the rain came just at the lime they were maturing, and,
therefore, unable to assimilate the superabundant moisture con¬
tracted by absorption from the humid atmosphere as well as through

the cellular tissue of the tree. Is there ai y remedy to prevent the
early decaying of Apples ? or is it possible to build a fruit house
that will be every year satisfactory ? I am afraid not. Potatoes,
Turnips, and other roots sometimes decay to all appearance the
same as Apples are doing. The cause, I believe, is some sort of
ferment, which, owing to a certain amount of water being present,
overcomes the antiseptic properties of sugar, converting it and the
starch into carbonised matter much in the same way as sulphuric
acid acts upon sugar.

Shrivelled Apples are frequently more delicious to the palate
than plump ones, and are in a better state of preservation if the
shrivelling be moderate. Had these juicy Apples been thoroughly
desiccated th- re would not have been premature decay, and in the
other extreme, plunged into water, they would in all likelihood
remained fresh for a longer period. I have known Apples and
Pears to keep well when damaged slightly by a small piece being
cut or chipped from them.

Fruit to keep well should have a certain proportion of water
to the amount of sugar present, and when in excess ought to be
evaporated by being kept in a warm fruit house. To know the
right proportion of water experiments should be made to learn
that, and the weight of sugar to the bulk of Apples ascertained.
— W. T.

American Apples.

Both Mr. Bunyard and Mr. Watkins (page 528) are somewhat
down on American Apples, and they should be able now to
estimate their true value. I grew Northein Spy for many years
on stiff clay in a bed on the Crab stock, and never had a fruit ; on
the other hand, with Mr. Turton at Maiden Erlegh, on almost as
stiff soil, but worked on the Paradise stock, and in bush form, it
fruits freely, some of the fruits being exceptionally handsome, rich
coloured, and good. Against that success we have to set the fact
that it is a variety that displays far more of failures than successes,
I had given me the other day, grown on the chalk at Titsey Park,
Surrey, by Mr. J. Dean, a couple of much larger samples, and the
fruits look as if they would keep firm till the end of January.
Still the past season has been so exceptional, as all admit, that
varieties that under ordinary conditions seldom fruit have borne
good crops are fine samples.

At tire Drill Hall last week Mr. J. Smith, of Mentmore
Gardens, invited me, with others, to taste samples of the American
Baldwin he had from trees grown at Mentmore. The samples
were gcod, skin clear golden, not highly coloured, the flesh soft,
and particularly sugary, but not specially flavoured. I wonder
whether persons who praise this Apple so much sometimes mistake
sugar for flavour. Whenever any doubt prevails as to whether a
variety has flavour or not, it is wise to refresh the palate with a
taste of Cox’s Orange Pippin, and a standard of excellence is
found that admits of no disputation. It will be interesting to
learn how the Baldwin does at Mentmore in ordinary seasons.
Practically we have little room in this country for American
Apples, and less need for them. Our wealth of varieties literally
covers all our needs. Any advance, if it be possible, should not be
found in adding so much to our present plethora of early dessert
and huge cooking sorts, of which we have legion, but rather in
improving our late-keeping or winter varieties, for these afford
most scope for development. — A. D.

HARDY FLOWER NOTES.

Snowdrops.

So long has the Snowdrop seemed to us the “early herald of the
infant year ” that to many the introduction of the varieties which
bloom in late autumn and eaily winter appears somewhat un¬
welcome. Our ordinary Galanthus nivalis has always been eagerly
looked for as the harbinger of spring, betokening the coming of the
host of flowers which that season delights to display to our admiring
eyes. Yet to those who grow the autumn and winter Snowdrops
it is wonderful how soon they entwine themselves into our
affections, and equally wonderful how eagerly they are watched for
as they peer through the soil, and gradually attain their flowering
period. It was with the keenest pleasure that I recently lingered
before a few of these chaste flowers, when a partial recovery from
a severe attack of influenza enabled me once more to venture into
the garden to see what was left to us in these gloomy days.

Galanthus octobrensis (?) from Albania.

One of these autumn Snowdrops which will, in all probability,
prove one of the hardiest of its race is one introduced from Albania
by Mr. Yan Tubergen of Haarlem. The flowers are not, perhaps,
the largest, but the plant shows every sign of a good constitution ;
my few bulbs, which were planted in the summer of 18S2, all
showing offsets this season. The first flowers of this Snowdrop
became fully expanded on October 22nd, and continued in beauty

December 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

649

for a long period. In my garden it has attained a height of only
4 inches, and the sepals or outer segments are rather less than
1 inch in length. In this species or variety, which an excellent
authority on Snowdrops has recognised as only a variety of G. octo-
brensis, the sepals appear to be more deeply fluted than any of
the others in flower here. The leaves, which are narrow, present
the great characteristic of the autumn and winter Snowdrop — the
glaucous line down the centre — which adds much to the appear¬
ance of the plant. The flower scape, which is cylindrical, is of a
beautiful glaucous green,

Galanthus corcyrensis pr^cox (?).

In a small consignment of G. corcyrensis which reached me
through an Italian firm in 1892 was a fine Snowdrop, that
flowered much earlier than the others of the same parcel last winter,
and this year the same bulb produced a flower which was fully
expanded on October 22nd, the same day as G, octobrensis flowered.
As it is undistinguishable from the typical G. corcyrensis, except
from its earlier period of blooming and its handsomer flower, I
have named it provisionally G. corcyrensis prsecox. It has broader
leaves than the species already spoken of, and grows to the top of
the spathe valves to between 5 and 6 inches in height, while the
floral segments, which are of good form and substance, are con¬
siderably over 1 inch in length. Last year this bulb produced two
flowers, and this season it will produce the same number, but is as
yet showing no signs of any offsets.

Galanthus Rachel.^.

I have to acknowledge, on the part of Mr. F. W. Burbidge, of
Trinity College Gardens, Dublin, an act of great kindness in his
sending me, quite unsolicited, a bulb of the true G. Rachelse, and
also one of the true G. Elsae. I appreciate Mr. Burbidge ’s kind¬
ness all the more highly in consideration of my being a total
stranger to him, and the stock of these two rare Snowdrops being
so small. Up to the time I write, while G. Ehse has made its
appearance above the soil; G. Rachelse has not yet shown, but I am
in hope it is still in existence. In 1892 I, however, received from
the same source as the G. corcyrensis praecox, mentioned above, a
Snowdrop under the name of G. Rachels. Last year I was very
sceptical as to its truth to name, knowing as I did that it could not
have come from the small stock brought from Greece by Professor
Mahaffy. This year, however, it flowered about October 29tb, and
I am more inclined to think that it may after all be from the same
habitat as Professor Mahaffy’s plant. In G. Rachel® the flowers
should appear before the foliage, and in the plant under notice the
leaves are only noticeable when the flower appears. Whether
correctly named or not, this Snowdrop is a very pretty one, of
excellent form and colour, with sepals of 1 inch in length on a
scape about 5 inches high, and with the pretty leaves just showing.
Various other autumn Snowdrops have reached me this season,
but they cannot be spoken of with any confidence at present.

Crocus hyemalis var. Foxi.

In walking round my garden a welcome greeting seemed offered
by a clump of this pretty Crocus, which had come into flower
while I was confined to the house. I have mentioned it before,
but the fact of its thorough hardiness being well proved, and the
beauty of its white flowers with black anthers and gold wire-like
stigmas, make it worthy of this further passing notice.

Anemone eulgens.

This is at present in leaf here, and, attracting my attention, I
was reminded that for some time I have intended writing a brief
note upon this undeniably fine Anemone. For some time past
complaints, which have been in accordance with my own difficulties,
have reached me with regard to the non-flowering of A. fulgens
after the first season from purchase. Generally speaking it proves
satisfactory enough the first season, and the pleasure experienced
at the sight of the brilliant scarlet flowers only intensifies the
disappointment the following year. The obvious remedy for this
unsatisfactory state of matters is to lift the roots when the foliage
has died off, to dry them well, and replant in autumn. In many
cases, however, my own being one of these, this involves too much
work. Growing, as I do, a large collection of plants it is found
exceedingly troublesome to grow many which require arnual
lifting, drying off, and replanting. By accident I have, I am glad
to say, discovered how to flower Anemone fulgens annually without
lifting.

In planting a number of roots a few years ago I placed one
on a high position on a dry rockery fully exposed to the sun. This
alone of the number I had has continued to flower from year to
year, and I purpose increasing the number thus planted. I am
aware that in many gardens no difficulty is experienced with this
beautiful Windflower, but where this is felt the plan of planting
on dry rockwork might be adopted with advantage. I refer, how¬

ever, to properly constructed rockwork in terraces which, while
securing perfect drainage, do not allow the rainfall to run off
without reaching the plants. — S, Arnott, Dumfries.

Lycaste Imscuootiana.

At the last meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society for thi&
year, Messrs. Linden, L’Horticulture Internationale, Rrusselsj
exhibited, amongst other Orchids, two very distinct new Lycsstes,
on which more than ordinary interest was centred. One of these.

FIG. 79. — lycaste IMSCHOOTIANA.

L. Imschootiana, is depicted in the illustration (fig. 79). This fs a'
hybrid from Peru, and is said to be the result of a cross between
Lycaste Skinneri and Maxillaria nigrescens. In habit of growth
it resembles the former parent, the flowers also being about the
same size and shape. As regards colour, however, they are very
distinct. The petals and sepals are pale yellow densely spotted
crimson, whilst the lip is also yellow of a brighter shade. An
award of merit was adjudged for this fine hybrid.

L^lia Finckeniana.

The illustration (fig. 80) published on page 557 reprtsents a
plant of this beautiful L®lia, which was exhibited by C. W. Fincken,,

650

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 21, H33.

Esq., Hoyland Hall, Barnsley, at the meeting of the Royal Horti¬
cultural Society on Tuesday, December 14th. It is supposed to be
a natural hybrid, and appears to be allied to L. anceps. As will
be noticed in the engraving, the plant exhibited had one spike, on
which were six flowers. The sepals and petals are white, with a
deep violet-tinted blotch on the lip. The flowers are medium¬
sized, but of an attractive appearance, and the plant merited the
first-class certificate which was awarded on the above-mentioned
occasion.

ORCHID LESSONS FOR YOUNG GARDENERS.

ROOTS AND THEIR REQUIREMENTS.

When Orchids were first brought into British gardens, and for
a considerable period afterwards, they were regarded as mysterious
plants, most difficult of cultivation and beyond the powers of any
but trained specialists. Mysterious Orchids still undoubtedly are,
but only in their structural peculiarities, for most of the unfounded
notions respecting their culture have been removed, and there are
few members of the family that can be said to still afford serious
puzzles to the grower. The fact is that every well trained gardener
can soon master the requisites of success in Orchid growing, and it
is quite possible for a man with no special knowledge of gardening,
if he be intelligent, observant, and attentive, to perform under
good direction all the operations needed. In the early stages of
my experience I was requested by my employer to visit a nurstry
where Cattleyas had for some time been grown with much more
than ordinary success, and the object was to pick up a few hints to
guide me in my work. Like many young men in starting who are
very anxious to give satisfaction I had invested Orchid growing
with imaginary difficulties, and I was prepared to find that the
grower in charge was a kind of horticultural genius, and to admire
him accordingly. The manager took me into the spacious house
where the grand Cattleyas were flourishing, and gave a brief out¬
line of their routine, which I found to be as simple and reasonable
as nursery management usually is. “ But of course the man in
charge has had considerable experience with Orchids,”! ventured to
remark, and the reply rather surprised me. “ Certainly our grower
has had good experience here,'’ he said ; “ but when I brought him
into this house I do not believe he had ever seen an Orchid. I
knew he was a careful and attentive workman. I gave him a
week’s instruction and close supervision, found he was to be trusted,
and I have never had any trouble since ; in fact, he knows more
about the plants now than I do.”

It must not be supposed that I wish to lessen the credit due to
any successful grower by making too light of the work, but I desire
to remove the idea that there is anything in Orchid culture which
a careful gardener cannot overcome, and many could be pointed
out who have gained no mean degree of fame as cultivators who
were appointed to their charge solely because they had proved their
skill and care in general gardening. The qualities needed to render
a man successful in any department of horticulture are exactly
those which applied to any other branch would give similar results.
It is a long experience and a full conviction of the truth of this
which has awakened in me a respect for specialists, as I have never
known a man who had made a name with Chrysanthemums,
Orchids, fruits, or vegetables, either as a private grower or as an
exhibitor, who had not also proved himself the possessor of valuable
qualities that would have rendered him a formidable opponent in
whatever he undertook. The phrase “know something of every¬
thing and everything of something ” is a good one for gardeners to
bear in mind.

One quality which is of the greatest importance to a gardener is
observation, and as it is of equal importance in the cultivation of
Orchids it cannot be too strongly impressed upon young men that
the best training, experience, and opportunities are lost unless
they learn to use their eyes, note keenly, and remember carefully
whatever bears upon their work and the welfare of the plants in
their charge. Some of the most famed horticulturists of the
present day freely admit how much they owe to the faculty of
observation, which is essential alike to the beginner and the over¬
seer, and those who would distinguish themselves as cultivators of
Orchids or other plants must strive also to cultivate this quality in
themselves. It was my good fortune to have a long and careful
training under a practical gardener of the old school who had had
too much experience to depend upon “ rule of thumb” practice, or
to think that a young man could be made a good gardener by learn¬
ing rules by rote. His lessons sunk deeply into my mind, and
much of the satisfaction and pleasure I have derived from my
calling since then is entirely due to the direction given to my
thoughts. Most earnestly was it always impressed upon me that
observation and attention, combined with a genuine interest in the

work, were indispensable to anyone engaging in gardening, and as
I have proved the advantage derivable from a development of those
qualities it is given as portion of this preliminary lesson, not only
for the benefit of beginners in Orchid culture but for young
gardeners generally.

Advancing one step farther, an early lesson given me by my
old and respected instructor was founded on the horticultural text,
“ Take care of the roots.” This seems so simple and obvious a
precaution in plant growing, that it is always difficult for expe¬
rienced men to understand how it can ever be disregarded ; but the
simple things are often neglected, and thus it is we too often find
that only repeated instructions will induce young men to attach to
it due importance. It is painful to see the roots of plants treated
as barbarously as they frequently are, and just as surprising that
anything like success can be expected to follow. Whether we are
dealing with fruit trees. Vines, vegetables, or Orchids, with plants
generally, it is not possible to be too careful in impressing the
axiom, “ Take care of the roots.” — Orchidist.

(To be continued.)

LONDON CITY GARDENS: PAST AND PRESENT.

{Concluded from page 526.')

Notable amongst the open spaces of Old London were its
numerous churchyards ; even in the limits of the City proper there
was considerably over a hundred of these after the Great Fire led
to the remodel. ing of the metropolis. Few of them presented a
garden-like aspect to our ancestors ; some shrubs or trees grew in
them, but could not be slid to flourish. If these were, to use a

modern phrase, the “lungs of London,” they must have been

unhealthy ones, for the way in which burials were ordinarily
carried out made the graveyards far from sanitary. Many of these
have now been built over, or lines of streets cross them, others
have become yards used for business purposes, and some have been
turned into private gardens, these being of small dimensions mostly,
and difficult to find amongst the blocks of huge buildings which
frequently surround them. Chiefly by the exertions of the Metro¬
politan Public Gardens Association, which has done so much for
the preservation and increase of London’s open spaces, several of

the long-closed churchyards in the City have been turned into

pleasant and much appreciated resorts, and there are still a number
of them, at present closed, which we may hope some day to see
turned to account, and planted with shrubs or flowers.

The City churchyards have still amongst them a fair sprinkling
of trees, and some are conspicuous in other parts, though none of
great age are to be seen. London trees have not only its atmosphere
to contend with, but even there insect foes are active. In a
contemporary in 1877, one of the contributors supplied a calcula¬
tion of the number of trees growing in central London, and he
was able to count up about 1200, which was rather surprising,
and if some have vanished, others have been planted since that will
replace them. Though the soil of the City is less moist than it
used to be, the Poplar may still thrive, and the Willow too, only
the goat caterpillars will persistently molest them. But the principal
tree is the Plane. This observer reckoned 620 of these, almost half
the total of the City trees, and mostly of the western species, one
of Tradescant’s introductions during the reign of Charles I. But
the Oriental Plane had preceded that, as it was planted about
London by the middle of the sixteenth century. In busy
Cheapside, the large Plane at the corner of Wood Street yet
continues to mark where once was the churchyard of St. Peter le
Chepe. Not very many years ago it had six rooks’ nests ; the number
diminished to a single pair, then none. It was in Gray’s Inn
Gardens that the rooks tarried last, after they had quitted other
rookeries near the heart of London. Visitors to the City have a
good sample of its Planes in those to be seen along Queen Street,
and indeed hardly another species can be .said to grow better in
London air than the Plane does, as witness the noted specimen
at Stationers’ Hall still existing ; but the Lime and Ash bear
smoke fairly well ; the Elm also. Around Smithfield, for instance,
were rows of Elms. The solitary tree of St. Paul’s Churchyard was,

1 believe, an Elm. This is the one made memorable by Leigh Hunt,
who tells a story of some City child that had never seen any tree
but this. He would be glad, if living, to notice a number of young
trees around the precincts of the cathedral, and the churchyard is
one of the favourite res rts of those seeking a change of scene
during the intervals of their daily work near. Its extent is nearly

2 acres, and the space is turned to good account. There are well
kept flower beds, and a fountain adds to the attractiveness.

Others of these City gardens also exhibit fountains, and we
may likewise see rockeries, sometimes well contrived, but I feel
inclined to object to one or two, where fragments of old tomb¬
stones have been used partly in their construction. Pigeon-houses

December 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

561

have also been introduced to give a semi-rural aspect, and possibly
by-and-by we may see aviaries. A variety of flowers is displayed
in the summer season by the bedding-out system, and in spring by
the flowering of bulbs, and most gardens have a few herbaceous or
perennial plants, upon which less reliance is placed now. London
gardens of the old type had these in predominance, the spaces
between them being yearly sown with annuals, not to much profit ;
in fact annuals, as a rule, cannot advantageously be sown in
London, the cats and sparrows being much against them, and the
soil of the ordinary bed is apt to cake upon the surface if watered,
so that the seedlings have difficulty in breaking through.

Many shrubs have been planted in the former burial grounds of
the City, and some that seem unlikely to thrive amid smoke have
grown fairly well. The calculation of trees in 1877 did not
include shrubs, of which the City has always bad a number, both
of deciduous and evergreen species, such as the Elder, Privet, Lilac,
and Laburnum, also the Holly, Aucuba, Portugal Laurel, Box, and
Euonymus. It is curious to note how stationary some of these
appear to be from year to year, making no appreciable increase in
size. One singular effect of the drought of 1893, and the late rains
of autumn, was that many London trees and shrubs put forth a
crop of leaves at a time when they are usually bare, and retained
these till nearly, the end of October.

St. Botolph’s garden, Aldersgate Street, is another garden of
about an acre in the heart of the City, and so popular on fine
summer days that the ground is often crowded with visitors, the
conduct of young and old being generally good. The grounds of
two other City churches of like name being also much appreciated,
especially the half acre of St. Botolph, Aldgate. at the junction
of the City and East-end. About the same size is the churchyard
of St. Botolph in Bishopsgate, which was laid out as a garden last
year. Of smaller size (only a quarter of an acre) are the gardens
of St. Mary Aldermary, and St. Katherine Coleman ; also
those of St. Bride’s, Fleet Street, and St. Sepulchre, Holborn
Viaduct, just beyond the City boundaries. As an example of a most
valuable East London garden, not far from the Tower and St.
Katherine’s Docks, we might visit St. G-eorge’s-in-the-Eist garden,
formed from two old burial grounds of 3 acres, where we find a
capital display of flowers from spring to autumn, looking little the
worse for the murky atmosphere. When I went there one autumn
day, the scene was enlivened by a number of white butterflies,
which delighted the juveniles, though the gardener demurred to the
mischief they had done as caterpillars.

Farther eastward larger gardens occur in crowded neighbour¬
hoods, such as that of St. Dunstan’s, Stepney, 7 acres in extent.
Spitalfields, many centuries ago real fields attached to the old
hospital, now an over-populous and squalid district, has at least one
garden of 2 acres attached to Christ Church, which is much visited
by those who cannot reach broader spaces some distance away.
Moorfields, once an extensive open space just beyond the north
wall of the City, is not all built over, for we have the gardens of
Finsbury Square and Circus of nearly 10 acres ; upon its ground,
though not as yet open to the public, are the Bunhill Fields
enclosure of 7 acres, which, however, retains its character of a
cemetery, and is not garden-like. On the west of the City is one
of the finest spaces of central London, the 12 acre expanse of
Lincoln’s Inn Fields, well timbered ; and along the Embankment
the familiar but smaller Temple Gardens. — J. R. S. C,

SEASONABLE HINTS ON FLORISTS’ FLOWERS.

The closing weeks of the year always more or less bring
anxiety to the growers of those, which we of the older generation
call florists’ flowers. As I have often said, it is almost an impossi¬
bility to define what is a florist’s flower, but there are certain
plants which are always associated with that term, while in later
years a few have been generally admitted in the same rank ;
although we can give no valid reason why a Pansy should be so
called,°and a Phlox not, yet so it is, and, like many other arbitrary
arrangements in horticulture, we must be contented to let them
bide. I, therefore, confine my remarks, as usual, to a few out of
the many kinds of flowers that have sometimes been so designated.
This time of the year is, as I have said, an anxious one, not so
much from the dread of frost and snow as from the prevalence of
damp ; when the atmosphere is heavy and charged with moisture,
plants under shelter, whether in the greenhouse or frames, are
apt to suffer from it, and the greatest care is necessary.

Auricdlas.

The past season has had, I fear, an unfavourable effect on
many Auriculas. They love a cool atmosphere, and hence the long
terrible drought of the past summer bas had a deleterious effect
upon them in two ways ; in the first place, their vitality to seems
have suffered, and the summer losses were in consequence larger

than usual. Stating this, I am not detailing my own experience,
only the same thing has been told me by moxe extensive growers
of this class of plants than myself. Another is that there has been
a larger number of autumn blooms than usual. The mild and open
weather, also, has tended to increase the number of aphides, many
of which may be found snugly sheltered in the upper part of
the foliage. With regard to any present work connected with
Auriculas, it will be simply that of removing the dead or decaying
leaves, and the plants, after this is done, will present a somewhat
diminished appearance. These leaves are those which have clothed
the plant with beauty, and having fulfilled their task, gradually die
off and must be removed, and nothing is more injurious to the
well-being of the Auricula than any decaying matter of this kind ;
at the same time it would be well to look both in the heart of the
plant and on the under side of the leaves for aphides, which should
be removed when the collection is small with a soft brush. When,
however, a large number are grown, this will be too tedious a
process, and fumigation may be done. Where Auriculas are grown
in frames and not in houses or pits, there is often great danger from
drip. There may be some small leakage in the glazing through
which the wet comes, or there may be condensation, which has
very much the same effect, and in a frame it is not oftentimes easy
to see where the injury is ; which is, however, easily discovered
when grown in a house or p'it. Watering will be, of course,
necessary, only very occasionally ; once a week being quite sufficient
in dull weather.

Carnations and Picotees.

Here again we have to repeat that damp is the great enemy we
have to contend with ; when black spot, which is a fungus, appears
on the leaves it is a pretty sure token that something is wrong.
Affected leaves should be cut away and the plants well dusted with
sulphur, for it is very contagious. So far those who have trusted
their border Carnations to the open ground hive had a favourable
time, but I believe for the greater number it is far safer to keep
them in pots in frames during the winter, as has always been done
with the florist varieties. I know of some growers who have
recommended the former plan have, after the experience of two or
three seasons, reverted to the latter practice. The milder weather
will probably make aphides troublesome, and they may be eradicated
in the same way as from the Auricula, or the shoot may be passed
between the finger and thumb, so killing the aphides. Where the
collection is large, fumigation had better be resorted to.

Gladioli.

Never during the thirty or forty years that I have grown these
plants have I been so late in lifting them as in this season.
Various causes have contributed to this, the chief one being the
illness of my gardener, which has thrown me very much behind¬
hand in many things, and I have not now (December 1st) lifted
more than one-half of my Gladioli. I have, of course, as I fear I
must always have in this garden, a considerable loss of bulbs, but
certainly not in any way equal to that of last year, while the sound
ones I have lifted are very strong. My friends Messrs. Lindsell
and Fowler give the same account of theirs. I am still as perplexed
as ever at the cause of my losses. I find them, as in last year,
amongst imported and home-grown bulbs, and as yet there seems
to be no preventive or remedy. As I no longer exhibit, and grow
only for my own pleasure, I am about to try this season the
experiment of leaving some in the ground all the winter, giving
them some slight protection either of ashes or cocoa-nut fibre. ^ I
want to see whether they will fare better tbat way than by being
taken up and dried. That the disease bas something to do with
the character of the soil I have now very little doubt. Some
kinds are more liable to it than others, but it is a sore trouble to
all those who grow Gladioli. Some per centage of loss appears to
be the misfortune of all growers, and to some, as with myself, in
greater measure. ..'T.

Pansies.

The past hot summer was very unfavourable to thosedn the
south of England who grow these plants ; there is nothing to:which
they more strongly object than drought, and whether kept in
pots or planted out, there were considerable losses among them this
year. Mine have been put into pots, where they will remain until
the spring. There will be the necessity for watching against damp,
which they greatly resent, however much they may like moisture.
It is a curious thing to notice the collapse of the show varieties,
as they were called, for in writing of Pansies hardly anyone now
seems to think of anything but the fancy kinds, their stronger
constitution and greater variety of colour giving them a decided
preference.

Roses.

One hardly likes placing these amongst florists’ flowers, yet I sup¬
pose they must, strictly speaking, be called so. So much is written

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 21, 1893.

t:62

in the Journal concerning Roses that it is almost unnecessary to
say anything about them. One is, however, in a difficulty this
year ; I generally mulch my beds at this season, but this year,
owing to the failure of our cereals, it is impossible to get straw,
and I have been obliged to get moss litter instead. This will not
do for mulching, and consequently all that I can do is to earth up
the plants as if they were Potatoes, and in lieu of the nutriment
they would get from the farmyard manure I must supply them
with larger and more frequent doses of liquid manure later on.

Tulips.

Of these I have little to say, as I am not in the strict sense of
the term a Tulip grower. I possess a bed of fairly good kinds, and
these I have been able to plant in good condition a little later
perhaps than the orthodox time, which used to be considered the
•Oth of November. I hardly look forward to the resuscitation of
the taste for Tulips which I remember to have been so general in
my younger days ; they are still much sought after and valued in
■the north of England, though about the metropolis and the south I
see but little signs of a revival. I fear that they entail too much
trouble to suit the style of gardening which is prevalent in our days.

There is one thing which munt be carefully looked after as
regards those plants of whatever kind which are wintered in cold
frames, namely, their protection from frost ; when this sets in the
■frames should be covered with mats or other warm material and
the plants kept perfectly dry, and it will then be found that the
frost does little or no injury to them. — D., Deal.

BLACKBERRIES.

Tue Bramble or Blackberry is a common shrub in the hedge¬
rows, copses, and woods of this country. It produces an abundance
of fine fruits, which are oftentimes gathered and made remunerative.
Blackberries are esteemed by rich and poor for their good qualities,
either raw, cooked in pies or puddings, or preserved, the jam being
wholesome and of a very rich flavour. They also furnish an excellent
home-made wine. Several varieties of the Blackberry have been
-originated in America, either by cultivation, selection, or cross¬
fertilisation, large, handsome, juicy, rich flavoured fruits, and withal
-very pioductive. These varieties, however, have not proved satis¬
factory in this country, they requiring warm weather in May or June,
and good harvest weather to ripen their fruit and canes. The two
most generally cultivated are the Parsley-leaved and Wilson Junior.
The former has large, black, juicy, richly flavoured fruits. It is an
immense bearer, a vigoious plant of three or four years’ growth
trained to a trellis or wall, yielding 100 to 120 quarts of berries in a
season. Its habit is very robust and trailing, producing canes 10 to
15 feet lung, which push laterals the following year 2 feet long,
bearing rose-coloured flowers in July, and splendid fruit in August
..onwards. It is hardy and reliable, a selected form of R. laciniatus,
.. and superior to it. Wilson Junior has also large, black, juicy, and
richh'- flavoured fruits. It is a medium grower and very prolific.

Blackberries are best increased from cuttings of the roots, and
-covering the joints of the shoots with soil. Root-cuttings are obtained
'by digging up the roots and cutting them into pieces about 2 inches
placing these about 3 inches apart and the same depth in light
soil in the autumn or early spring. Layering the points of the canes
in August or September is soon followed by stocky young plants.
As soon as the tips grow nearly bare of leaves and become dark in
colour, peg them into the ground 3 or 4 inches at an angle of about
45®. In a month to six weeks they will form roots, and can be cut off
and planted where required. To obtain strong plants, stop a vigorous
young growth when 2 feet high, this will cause it to throw out
several laterals, and the points of these layered early become wmll
rooted by the autumn.

The Blackberry neither likes cold wet clay nor poor dr}' soil, but
a deep, free, fertile medium, and of such they are worthy. It must
be free from stagnant water, yet moisture should be within reach of
■ their roots. 'J he smaller and younger the plants, providing they are
'Well rooted, the safer they are removed, and more satisfactory* they
glow afterwards. They are best planted in the autumn, not exposing
the roots needlessly, such exposure being one reason why a large
“per centage of these plants often die. Spring planting may be
•practised if the conditions named are carried out, subsequently water¬
ing and mulching to insure uniform moisture in the soil. The canes
■■ahould be cut down after planting also in the second year if the growth
■IS not strong. Wilson Junior may be planted in rows 5 feet apart
and 3 feet between the canes in the rows Strong growing sorts like
■he Parsley-leaved require much morespace — namely, the rows should
not be less than 9 feet apart, and the plants 4:^ feet asunder in them,
a a • fo stakes or trellises. Trellises are best fixed about

'■^o inches from the line of plants, so that the fruiting canes may be
lOeat over to them, thus allowing the young canes to come up

separate from the bearing canes, which facilitates picking the fruit.
The Parsley-leaved variety is excellent for covering old walls and
training over arches. Dispose the canes thinly and cut them out
after frui iog, having a supply of strong summer growths which
have not been crowded to secure in the place of those removed.

Blackberry plants, well treated in the first and second year after
planting out, will afford considerable fruit in the third summer, some
in the second, if the plants make good canes the first year, and in the
third or fourth year, as the case may be, they will fruit bounteously.
How long they will bear profitably depends on the soil and treatment.
In good soil and with generous treatment the plants will continue
bearing satisfactorily for ten years, but if the old stools become weak,
the shoots are thin, and the fruit small, the Blackberry grower will
anticipate this by making new plantations in advance of cutting out
the old plants. — G. Abbey.

SETTING UP WIND-BLOWN TREES.

The gale of November 18th was almost as noteworthy for the
damage wrought by its influence on plantations as the one of October
14th, 1881. Some estates that suffered severely then were little the
worse this one, while some that escaped last time have been all but
ruined now. A feature of these gales, which may easily escape notice,
is the harm they do to growing trees which apparently are unscathed but
which may be loosened at the roots, or so torn at the forks or clefts in
the main branches that they either die slowly where they stand, or in some
gale in the near future are limbed or uprooted. I particularly noticed
trees that succumbed this time which had been loosened years ago, and
during the height of the last gale I saw many trees with loosened roots
that it would be impossible to observe had received any harm directly
the wind had fallen.

In portions of tie pleasure grounds hardly a Conifer, Holly, or Yew
escaped without being either loosened or blown more or less from the
perpendicular. Two trees were laid prone. With one there was no
difficulty in placing upright, as it had been only a dozen years planted ;
but the other, a Yew 45 feet in height, and with a spread of branches
of over 30 feet, and of unknown age, could only be uplifted by means
of powerful appliances. As there is certain to be many trees of large
dimensions that their owners would gladly see placed in an upright
position if sure it can be done, and the tree not suffer much afterwards,
the details of the method we use may be helpful.

In the first place it will be perceived that little more than one-half
of the roots are torn from the ground, and that the chances of success
with healthy, well rooted trees are therefore good. If the tree is old
and many of the roots decayed the chance of the tree surviving is very
slight. Another point is that the tree must either be set upright without
loss of time, or if this cannot be undertaken at once, then the roots
slijuld be covered with moist material until it can be done. If there is
a staff of men sufficient to allow them to work in two sections, so
many may proceed to make an excavation 2 or 3 feet wider than the
broken roots extend, and deep enough to allow the roots to be buried
somewhat deeper than they had been growing. The reason for doing
this is that they may have a wider range of good soil to feed upon for
the first two years, and also that they may be less affected by dry
weather, at the same time that the increased depth of soil is a help to
keeping the tree more secure. A cartload of good fresh soil ought also
to be placed in the bottom of the excavation lor the roots to lay upon,
meanwhile the other men are engaged in raising the tree. A powerful
Fcrewjack facilitates this operation, and two of these are much better
than one, as there is then no need for propping the tree, as there is
v/ith only one jack every time that a fresh lift is made.

When the tree is raised sufficiently to work block and tackle, the
jack is dispensed with, and the tree drawn into position by means of
strong ropes. If there is no tree or other means of attaching the further
end of the tackle to, an efficient *‘grip” is obtained by placing a cart filled
with stones, side on, and about 60 to 80 yards away from the tree. The
rope is run underneath the cart in a line with the axle and attached to
the nave of the further wheel on the outside. The “ pull ” is downward,
as well as toward the tree, and even without the aid of a strong stake
driven in to keep the last from moving, I have seen large trees success¬
fully drawn up. For moderately large trees, two strong stakes driven
3 or 4 feet into the ground, and lying at an angle of 45° away from the
liees, the rope being attached close to the ground, is fairly safe and good.
A double block and tackle is much better than a single one. Guy ropes
are safe for keeping the tree from swaying, and as the stem is gradually
drawn nearer the perpendicular, struts must be kept moved to support
the tree in case of accident to the tackle.

The Yew above referred to, owing to its great weight of branches
and foliage, broke a rope three times before it was brought to an upright
position. Through being securely supported with struts we did not
lose anything, and at the same time saved the tree and other
shrubs from further damage. I put four cartloads of good soil about
the roots of this tree, and about six tons of stones above the roots
to steady the tree, and in addition to three wooden supports tied to each
other, four strong wire ropes guy the tree. These are secured to oaken
posts driven into the ground. Keep the roots from drought, especially
during the first year, and an occasional surface dressing of good soil or
manure is of the utmost benefit to trees that have been uprooted and
lifted to their old positions. — B., East Lothian.

December 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

653

Matter fob Publication. — Communications for insertion in our
next issue should, where it is practicable, arrive at this office on Satur¬
day, this week. Correspondents will oblige by noting this intimation.

- The Weather in London. — The past week has been

-characterised by changeable weather. A frost occurred early on Sun¬
day morning, followed by a fog. Monday was fine and mild, but it
rained heavily on Tuesday. Wednesday opened wet, the rain continuing
as we are going to press. It is very mild for the time of year.

- The Weather in the North. — The weather of the past

week has been variable. There has been but little frost. High
westerly winds have generally prevailed, and a good deal of rain has
fallen. Snow fell on the mornings of the 12th and 13th, but thaw soon
followed. Sunday was fine throughout, and Monday was wet in the
former part, but fine in the afternoon and evening. — B. D., S. Perth¬
shire.

- We are informed that the Lord Mayor of London has under¬
taken to take the chair at the next anniversary festival of the Royal
Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. The dinner will be held at the Hotel
M4tropole some time in May, the exact date not being yet definitely
fixed.

- Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund. — As we are now on the

eve of the season when it is believed that the human heart is specially
open to generous appeals, kindly permit me to invite all subscribers to
the Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund to remember, in the marking of
their voting papers for the February election, the most necessitous of
those cases that last February failed to secure election, in preference to
new ones. There are some that will start with a good number of old
votes. These should have the best chance of election, and, so far as
possible, where really meritorious, should not be allowed to endure two
disappointments. Still only five orphans can be elected. That seems to
be an additional reason why the non-elected of last year should have
first consideration. — Subscriber.

- Index Kewbnsis. — After a commendably short interval

since the publication of the first part of the Index Kewensis, we are
now presented with the second part, which extends from Dendrobium
to Justicia. The character of the work is well sustained in every
particular as to authorship, typography, and execution, reflecting the
highest credit, both on the staff at Kew and that of the Clarendon
Press at Oxford. As a work of authority it will long hold precedence,
and be regarded as a necessary adjunct to every scientific library,
being what Linnaeus said of Caspar Bauhin’s Pinax — another noted
w Index ”

Opus est haotenus sine pari
Opus est quo, nullus carere potest.

- The Royal Horticultural Society. — We learn that

arrangements have been made to hold the Exhibitions and meetings of
the Royal Horticultural Society during the year 1894 on the following
dates : — January 16th, February 13th, March 13th and 27th, April 10th
and 24th, May ; and Temple Show on May 23rd, 24th, and 25th ;
June 12th and 26th, July 10th and 24th, August 14th and 28th, Sep¬
tember 11th and 25tb, October 9th and 23rd, November 13th and 27th,
and December 11th.

- Death of Mr. A. K. Angus. — We much regret to learn of

the death of Mr. A. K. Angus, which occurred last week at the Carlton
Hotel, Leicester. Prior to becoming the landlord of this excellent com¬
mercial house, where he lived for nine years. Mr. Angus was a gardener.
He went from the gardens of the Royal Horticultural Society at Chis¬
wick to in a large measure form and furnish the fine gardens of C. H.
Wilson, Esq., Warier Priory, Pocklington, which he managed with great
success. He was very able, and attained a good and much-respected posi¬
tion in Leicester, as was testified at the funeral. Mr. Angus always gave
an hospitable welcome to horticultural fiiends. His love for gardening
never left him, and he bought a walled-in space, wherein he could dig
the ground and cultivate crops. The cause of death was rheumatic
fever. Mr. Angus was born in Aberdeen in 1853, and was thus only
forty years of age. Much sympathy is felt for his widow in her great
bereavement.

- National Amateur Gardeners’ Association. — The

members of this Association held their third annual dinner at the
Holborn Restaurant, London, on Thursday, December 14th, under the
chairmanship of Mr. T. W. Sanders. Nearly a hundred ladies and
gentlemen were present, and a most enjoyable gathering resulted. In
proposing the toast of the evening, the Chairman remarked that there
were about 500 members on the books, and several affiliated societies,
including one in Tasmania. Numerous silver and bronze medals, also
certificates, were presented to members who had won such during the
year. A feature of the evening was the presentation of a handsome
silver tea and coffee service, with an illuminated address, to Mr. D. B
Crane, the energetic Honorary Secretary.

- The Royal Botanic Society. — We understand that the exhi¬
bitions held under the auspices of the Royal Botanic Society for 1894
will take place as follows : — Spring Shows, March 14th and April 18th ;
Summer Show, May 23rd; Special Floral Fe e, June 20th; Evening
FSte, July 4th. Musical Promenades will also be held on Wednesdays
in May, June, and Jnly, with the exception of fete days. Lectures
are to be given on Fridays in May and June at four o’clock. General
meetings will be held January 13th, 27th ; February 10th, 24th ; March
10th, 3l3t ; April 14th, 28th ; May 26th ; June 9th, 23rd ; July 14th,
28th ; November 10th, 24th ; and December 8th. The Society’s annual
meeting is arranged to take place on August 10th, at one o’clock P.M.

- Sulphate of Iron for Fruit Trees. — A foreign paper

state*: — Professor Sachs of Wurzburg asserted, and the Royal Institute
for Fruit and Vine Culture at Gieienheim has tried experiments and is
apparently satisfied, that sulphate of iron is a valuable stimulant to
plants that are suffering from chlorosis, or absence of the proper green
colour. They gave small trees 2 l-5th lbs. of copperas, and large trees
4 and 2-5th lbs. The results, it is said, were most gratifying. Strange
to say in some cases where the trees were suffering from the attack of
aphides as well as deficiency of colour in the leaves, the aphides
disappeared, and frequently the leaves became healthy within a few
days after the treatment. The sulphate of iron was dissolved in water,
and applied near the roots. E irly spring is the best time to try
the experiment. Some soils do not require the addition of sulphate o:
iron.

- The Perfume of Flowers. — Mr. E. Mesnard has been

making researches into the origin of perfume in flowers, and comes to
the conclusion that (1) the essential oil is generally found localised in
the epidermic cells of the upper surface of the petals or sepals. It
may exist upon both surfaces, especially if the floral parts are com¬
pletely concealed in the bud. The lower surface generally contains
tannin or pigments derived therefrom. (2) The chlorophyll seems in
all cases to give rise to the essential oil. (3) The disengagement of the
perfume of the flower makes itself perceptible only when the essential
oil is sufficiently disengaged from the intermediate products that have
given rise to it, and is found, in a manner, in a ratio inverse to the
production of tannin and pigments in the flower. This, says Mr.
Mesnard, will explain (a) why flowers with green petals have no odour ;
(5) why white or rose-coloured flowers are most often odoriferous ;
(<?) why the Compositse, which are rich in tannin, have the disagreeable
odour that they are known to possess ; and (P) why the white Lilac and
forced Roses take on a finer perfume.

- Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society. — The annual

meeting of this Society was held on the 7th inst. in Edinburgh,
Mr. R. Lindsay, President, in the chair. Mr. Fraser, the Treasurer,
submitted the accounts for the year ending 30th November, which
showed that members’ subscriptions had amounted to £i0S,
special subscriptions to £37, and the drawing at the shows to £1041
— the total receipts for the year having been £1549. On the
other hand, the expenditure had been £1578, the show expenses
having been £604, the amount of prizes paid £854, and the general
expenses £80. At the 30th November the funds of the Socie y
amounted to £1183 Os. 9J., as compared with £1201 Os. 8d. at the
corresponding date last year, being a decrease of £80 133. lid. T1 e
income for the year bad been £28 17s. 9d. short of the expenditur.*.
The accounts were approved of. Sir Thomas Gibson Carmichael wai
appointed a Vice-President in room of Lord Balfour of Burleigh.
Messrs. D. Mitchell, Comely Bank, Edinburgh ; C. Buchanan, Penicuik ;
and James Morrison, Atcheifield, were elected to fill vacancies in the
Council. Mr. Malcolm Dunn, Dalkeith, in moving the re-election ot
Mr. Fraser as Treasuier, and Mr. Charles Stewart, W.S., as Secretary
said if the funds were a little less than hitherto this year it was due
wholly to exceptional expenditure.

551

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 21, 1893.

- It is reported that Baron de Goldstein, the newly appointed

Dutch Ambassador to this country, is the President of the Royal
Netherlands Horticultural Society.

- The American Dewberry. — An Asiatic contemporary says

that among exotic fruits recently introduced into India, one of the most
promising seems to be the American Dewberry, which bears fruit
profusely in the Shaharanpur Botanic Gardens.

- Bolton Horticultural and Chrysanthemum Society.

— Mr. James Hicks, Secretary, informs us that the next exhibition of
Chrysanthemums and other flowers, fruit, and vegetables under the
auspices of this Society will be held on November 16th and 17th, 1891.

- The Death op Mr. J. Wells took place on Saturday, 9th

inst., at Osborne Park Nurseries, Potter’s Bar, Middlesex. He was
considerably over eighty years of age, and in former years was for a
long time gardener at Holme Lacy, Hereford, where his services were
highly appreciated by the late Lord Chesterfield, who was Sir Henry
Scudamore Stanhope in Mr. Wells’ time.

- Railway Gardening. — Some years ago the Midland Railway

directors decided to set aside £1.50 annually, to be allotted as prizes
among the station masters throughout the system as an encouragement
to them to render their platform garden borders as attractive as pos¬
sible. This year’s awards have just been distributed, and range from
£6 to 5s. Matlock Bath takes the first prize, and amongst other
Midland stations securing prizes are Sandal and Walton and
Woodlesford.

- A Narcissus (Daffodil) Show will be held in the

Botanical Gardens, Edgbaston, on Wednesday and Thursday, 18th and
19th April, 1894, under the auspices of the Birmingham Botanical and
Horticultural Society. A liberal prize schedule has been prepared, no
less than seventeen classes being provided. Any intending exhibitors
must give notice in writing of the classes in which they intend to
exhibit, and, in the case of honorary exhibits, the table space required,
to Mr. W. B. Latham, Curator, Botanical Gardens, Edgbaston, Bir¬
mingham, on or before April 13th. F. W. Burbidge, Esq., F.L.S.,
Trinity College Gardens, Dublin, has been invited to act as judge.

- Pacific Coast Irises. — A correspondent writes to an American

contemporary : — “ Oregon collectors are offering Iris macrosiphon, and
describe it as having a cream-coloured flower. It is common on the
coast range of Northern California and North Oregon, and where it is
generally a lilac-purple. I have seen detached clumps which were pure
white. In the range east of Ukiah it frequently varies to cream colour,
and in one locality, within a half mile, it runs from purple through
bronze-purple to rich bronze and to cream colour. Like all the Pacific
coast species, the masses are dense, with rootstocks hard and rather
slender. It prefers a gravelly soil in open woods. I have naturalised
Iris Douglasiana with success in my Fern beds, where it shows well
with its yellow purple-lined flowers. It runs through the eastern
edge of the Redwood belt. I. Hartwegi is a somewhat similar species
with yellow flowers, found in the open woods of the Sierra, flourishing
in the peculiar dry, red, granulated soil.”

- Ancient Society of York Florists.— -The annual dinner

of the Ancient Society of York Florists was held on the 13th inst. at
Harker s Hotel, York. The ^Lord Mayor of York (Mr. Alderman
Clayton) presided, and was supported by a large number of other gentle¬
men. Mr. Alderman Rymer in proposing the “Ancient Society of York
Florists,” said they had a right to lay claim to their title, for they knew
that the records of the Society went back 100 years, and tradition took
it back further. There was no doubt that the Society had had its ups
and downs, but it was never more prosperous than at present. It
deserved to prosper, seeing that its aim was to cultivate and encourage
the cultivation of all kinds of flowers. The Chrysanthemum Show had
had the effect of resuscitating their funds, and had placed them on their
legs financially speaking, and had given incalculable pleasure to
numberless citizens of York. Mr. J. Key replied, and spoke of the
rapid progress of the Society during the past twenty years. They had
now in round numbers about 600 members. Mr. Lamb said that their
total receipts for the year had been £680, and the expenditure about
£628, leaving a balance of about £160. Mr. J. B. Sampson offered a
standard woik on botany as a prize to scholars, and hoped the Society
would take tne matter up. Mr. J. J. Hunt also offered £5 as a special
hr^st prize for dessert table decorations at the next Chrysanthemum

Show, which doubtless will take nlace on November 14th, 15th,
and 16th, *

- Seaweed, though not the diet for an epicure, is, when dry>

says an Australian writer, richer than oatmeal or Indian com in nitro¬
genous constituents, and takes rank among the most nutritious of
vegetable foods.

- Early Snowdrops. — Colonel Mesham writes from Pontryflfydd,,

North Wales ; — “ In most years I have been able to gather some Snow¬
drops on Christmas Day, but this year I have found several in bloom
under the trees in my shrubberies on the 17th inst.”

- We are informed that the Russian traveller, M. POTANiN, who-

has spent more than a twelvemonth in a botanical exploration of Thibet,
is expected in St. Petersburg in January next. M. Dobrotworsky has
arrived at Jenisseisk on the Jennissei, on a botanical expedition.

- Lady Hutt and Appley Towers Grapes. — “ S. W. F.”^

writes : — “ I should be interested in hearing the experience of your
Vine-growing correspondents with the Grapes Lady Hutt and Appley
Towers. They were sent out with a great flourish of trumpets, but since
that time I have not seen a reference to either variety in the horti¬
cultural press.”

- Aristolochia Sipho Seeding. — Miss S. C. Smith, New

Galloway, Kirkcudbrightshire, wishes to know through the Journal of
Horticulture if it is usual for the Aristolochia Sipho to seed in thia
country, because hers did so this season. The seed pod is like a small
Vegetable Marrow and well ripened, and her plant was five years old.
Miss Smith has been told by gardeners in her neighbourhood that they
had not heard of such an occurrence before.

- The Midland Carnation and Picotee Society. — A copy

of the Report for 1893 of the Midland Carnation and Picotee Society
has come to hand, and this asserts that the popularity of the Society i»
proved by the large increase of members, which rose from 152 in 1891
to 204 in 1892 ; the number still further increased in 1893 to 242, and
twelve new members have already promised to support the Society for
1894. The season of 1893 was one long to be remembered for its pro¬
longed drought and great heat, and cultivators experienced much
difficulty in keeping down the ravages of thrips and other insect pests ;
and it was feared for a time that the date fixed for the exhibition would
be too late owing to the flowers being driven into bloom so rapidly and
prematurely ; but to the surprise and intense gratification of the
Committee the entries and exhibits were far beyond their expectations, no
less than forty -six members bringing flowers, and a very fine exhibition
was secured. The success of the exhibition again enables the Committee
to give a donation of £5 each to the Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent
Institution and to the Royal Gardeners’ Orphan Fund, and they hope
to be able to continue this help each year. The financial statement
shows a balance of £50 7s. 3d. The schedule for 1894 will be published
in January, when the Committee hope to increase the prize list to £120.

- Insect Pests. — An Australian nurseryman referring to the

three common pests on fruits and flowers — viz., scale, aphis, and
mildew, gives some practical hints from his own experience. In the
case of the coccus or scale insect and the aphis or green fly, he
recommends kerosine emulsion as the most simple, effective, and the
easiest applied. The following is the recipe : Boil softsoap in just
sufficient water to dissolve it (1 lb. soap to 1^ pint water), then add
1 pint of kerosine. When thoroughly mixed 1 quart will be sufficient
for 3 gallons of water, and the mixture should be applied with a fine
nozzled syringe. In the case of the aphides one good dressing is
generally effectual, but when applied to the scale the greatest care
should be exercised, so that every part of the tree gets thoroughly
saturated, more especially underneath the leaves, for if this is neglected
all the insects so secured will remain untouched, and form a new stock
for further destruction. The oidiurn or mildew, different from the two
preceding pests, is due to a fungus, and in its early stages consists of a
white coating over all parts of the infested plant. The superficial
position of the fungus renders direct treatment comparatively easy, and
a thorough application to the diseased part of flowers ot sulphur or
sulphide of potassium in weak solution (which is also recommended for
green fly and red spider) will be found sufficient to put an end to the
fungus without injuring the plants. But it has also been found that
the same remedy as has been recommended for scale and aphides
with the addition of a little flowers of sulphur, applied during the
period of rest, has been found a good preventive ; loose bark and the
soil immediately round the plant should at the same time be removed
and burnt, and every part of the plant thoroughly washed. If this
treatment is adopted once a year, as a rule, it will destroy all traces of
mildew.

D«cember 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

555

- Crystal Palace September Fruit Show. — Referring to

this question, Mr. W. H. Divers, Ketton Hall Gardens, Stamford,
writes : — “ I am not surprised at the correspondence which appeared
on pages 508 and 531, as I have heard many regrets expressed by fruit
growers in various parts of the country on this subject. As an exhibitor
there for many years I have no hesitation in adding that I should be
very pleased to support the exhibition as much as possible if it is
revived. I know of no building so suitable as the Crystal Palace for
shows, and I must certainly add the management of all the shows
which I have attended there has been all that could be wished for
under Mr. Head’s supervision. It is a pleasure to an exhibitor to go.
The display of fruit has always been most interesting and instructive,
and with the daily increasing interest in fruit culture, might reasonably
be expected to advance.”

- Begonia Gloire de Lorraine.— This is a hybrid between

B. socotrana and B. Dregi, the latter a Cape species in the way of
B. caSra and B. natalensis, with a tuberous rootstock, annual stems
bearing soft green leaves and numerous bunches of white flowers.
According to an English correspondent in our excellent transatlantic
contemporary, the ” Garden and Forest,” the hybrid was raised by
Mons. Lemoine of Nancy, and exhibited in flower at the Paris Exhibi¬
tion. It has been flowering at Kew for some time, and recently a few
well-flowered examples of it were exhibited from the garden of
L. de Rothschild, Esq. It is dwarf, rarely exceeding a foot in height,
with numerous short branches, which are literally smothered with bright
rose-pink flowers, which last a long time, a character peculiar to
B. socotrana and all its progeny. This is the seventh distinct hybrid
of which B. socotrana is one of the parents, and every one of the seven
is worth a place in all good gardens. They flower very freely, usually
in late autumn or winter, and their flowers are always pretty in colour
and last a long time.

- The Rings op Trees. — The annual rings in trees exist as such

in all timber grown in the temperate zone, says the “Builder’s Gazette,”
Their structure is so different in different groups of timber that,
from their appearance alone, the quality of the timber may be judged to
some extent. For this purpose the absolute width of the rings from
year to year, and the proportion of spring wood to the autumn wood,
must be taken into account. Spring wood is characterised by less sub¬
stantial elements, the vessels of the thin-walled cells being in greater
abundance, while autumn wood is formed of cells with thicker walls,
which appear darker in colour. In Conifers and deciduous trees the
annual rings are very distinct, while in trees like the Birch, Lime, and
Maple the distinction is not so marked, because the vessels are more
evenly distributed. Sometimes the gradual change in appearance of the
annual ring from spring to autumn wood, which is due to the difference
in its component elements, is interrupted in such a manner that a more
or less pronounced layer of autumn wood can apparently be recognised,
which again gradually changes to spring or summer wood, and gradu¬
ally finishes with the regular autumn wood.

- Fruit Preserving at Singapore.— The Netherland Con¬
sular report on Singapore for last year, published a short time ago in
the Java “Government Gazette,” gives the folio wing particulars regarding
the preserved Pine Apple trade : — “ The preparation of preserved
tropical fruits, chiefly Pine Apples, increased again during the year
under report, the export being estimated at 1,670,000 Pine Apples
against 1,600,000 in 1891. This increase of 70,000 units is, almost
exclusively, to be ascribed to the augmented export of 30,000 units to
Great Britain, and 40,000 units to the Continent of Europe, mostly to
France. The steady extension of this branch of industry is in con¬
sequence of the article becoming better known abroad, and of the
considerable increase of Pine Apple cultivation in Singapore, Johore,
and adjacent places, as also on neighbouring islets in the Rhio Archi¬
pelago. The Pine Apple crop was, moreover, very satisfactory during
the past year. The price realised, on the average, fell to 2 cents for
each Pine Apple against 6 cents in 1891, and this, too, in spite of an
increase in preserving factories. During the year under report, at
Singapore, five Europeans and five Chinese carried on the preserving
business against four Europeans and three Chinese in 1891. From the
above mentioned increase in the export it need not, however, be made
out that the consumption abroad has grown in proportion. An incon¬
siderable portion of the export, indeed mostly to England, had to remain
there unsold owing to a glut in the market, as also in consequence of
inferior quality and less careful preparation of the product. These last
mentioned consignments were largely from Chinese factories, of which
during the past year several stopped business, while others were set up.”

NOTES ON EUPHORBIAS.

No lengthy description is necessary to add to the charms of these
beautiful plants, for when well grown they are certain to be noticed, the
rich glow of colour, together with their gracefully arching branches,
rendering them very attractive. Although a large genus, only a few
species are worth cultivating for general decorative purposes. Those
most frequently met with are Euphorbia jacquini^flora, E. pulcherrima,
and E. splendens. The last named, although very ornamental and
nearly always in flower, is nevertheless not much appreciated on account
of the stout sharp thorns which cover the stems. It succeeds best when
planted out in tbe stove and allowed to remain undisturbed. The
finest plant I have ever seen of this variety was growing under similar
treatment to that described in the gardens of Dale Park, Arundel,
Sussex. It had been there many years, and was never known to be
without a flower.

Euphorbia jacquiniasflora.

Viewed either as regards its general usefulness or for the exquisite
beauty of its bright orange-scarlet flowers, which are produced in long
racemes all along the upper parts of the shoots, Euphorbia jacquiniae-
flora stands quite unrivalled as a winter-flowering plant. Although the
individual blooms are small, they are so elegantly arranged, and pro¬
duced in such profusion, that for general decoration they are invaluable
either on the plants or when used in a cut state. The long, graceful,
arching branches, thickly studded with flowers, also form a most
charming wreath for personal adornment, for which purpose they are
valued by ladies. No fear need be entertained in reference to removing
a good portion of the stem with the flowers, for, unlike the majority of
hardwooded plants, no damage is done by cutting, and its value is not
deteriorated in any way other than by the loss of its flowers.

This Euphorbia is not very hard to cultivate after it has fairly
started, but it is frequently found very difficult to establish. I find the
best way to propagate it is to prepare a sufficient number of small pots
by filling them with sandy peat, then place about three or four cuttings
in each pot, making the compost quite firm, afterwards placing under a
bell-glass or hand-light in a temperature of 65° to 70°. It is very
essential that the glass be removed every morning owing to the con¬
densed moisture congregating on it, which if not wiped off is liable to
cause the cuttings to damp. When well rooted tilt the glass slightly
every day, so that the young plants may not experience a severe check
in removing. Where a sufficient number of cuttings can be obtained I
should recommend that they when rooted be transferred from the pots
in which they were inserted to larger ones, without disturbing the roots
in any way. By this means much stronger shoots may be obtained,
which will be a decided advantage at the flowering period. Although
the general practice is to give this plant stove heat I think much better
results may be obtained by growing it in an intermediate house, as
flowers that expand under such conditions invariably possess more sub¬
stance and last much longer in perfection than those which are subjected
to a higher temperature. As the plants go out of flower the supply of
water should be gradually curtailed, eventually withholding it altogether
and allowing them to remain quite dry for two or three months.

Euphorbia (Poinsettia) pulcherrima.

This species, which is more frequently met with under the name of
Poinsettia pulcherrima, differs very materially from the foregoing. The
best bracts are produced on plants which are grown from cuttings every
year. The cuttings should be inserted singly in small pots. When the
plants are established, free growth should be encouraged by maintaining
a warm moist atmosphere with plenty of light. Where space is avail¬
able, I should recommend growing them in a cool house during the
summer, in preference to cold frames. The advantages obtained by
devoting a house to their culture are multitudinous, for not only are
they more easily managed, but during a wet dull season they may be
assisted by employing a little fire heat. If the roots are checked
through cold or any other cause, the plants are liable to lose their
bottom leaves, in which case they are disfigured for the remainder of
the season. Plenty of air must be afforded them at all times, providing
the weather is favourable. I have known some growers shade them
lightly during the hottest part of the day, but I prefer letting them
have the full rays of the sun, provided plenty of air is afforded, merely
shading for a day or two after repotting. It is very important that the
ends of the growth be kept near the glass, lowering them as occasion
demands, as by this means much sturdier plants are obtained.

A gentle dewing with the syringe every morning and evening during
the summer is very beneficial to the plants, and keeps down red spider
and other insect pests. When the bracts appear more heat may be
given, and an occasional application of manure water at this period
will also prove very advantageous to the plants. Judicious watering
is essential, as much depends upon the manner in which this is
performed.

It has been repeatedly notified in previous issues of the Journal of
Horticulture that there are two distinct varieties of Euphorbia
pulcherrima, I will, therefore, restrict myself to merely one or two
references on this point. Although both varieties are invaluable for
intermixing with other plants, or where a succession of bloom is
required, I should advise growers whose object is to obtain a mass of
colour at one time to confine themselves to the earliest variety only.
This is decidedly the better and most valuable of the two ; the bracts
are much paler in colour and produced with great freedom. A consider¬
able number of plants are grown here annually under similar treatment

666

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 21, 1893.

to that described. When the bracts appear the plants are placed in a
group, filling half of one of the houses, where they produced an imposing
effect. — G. Paerant, Ashhy Lodge Gardens, Itughy.

JUDGES AND JUDGING.

A New Catechism.

As we gave prominence to a letter of an extraordinary character and
accompanied it with pertinent comments on page 503, December 7th,
and as the matter created much interest, we think the letter of another
correspondent is entitled to a little more than ordinary attention in our
columns.

“ Berks ” writes : “ You wish me to give more information regarding
this case. The exhibits were not pointed till the second day of the
Exhibition. I think Mr. R. Laird’s article settles the whole question,
with the exception of who asked this expert to point the exhibits. He
ought to come forward and say who appointed him. I am glad you
make the remark on my note on page 529, that you carefully refrained
from pronouncing the judges incompetent. Then what about the
heading of your leading article, page 508, “Judges Judged — Verdict
Guilty.” I notice you also make remarks on Mr. R. Laird’s article, page
530, stating you did not know the name of the society. I ask, why then
did you send nearly every member of Committee a gratis copy of your
Journal of December 7th, 1893 ? I regret you should publish such a
charge against any society without making inquiry as to the truth of the
charge. — Berks.”

We are much obliged to “ Berks,” who takes us a step onward, and
an important one too. If the exhibits were not pointed by the
“ expert ” till the second day his figures can have little, or indeed no,
weight. Perhaps the “ expert,” whose identity is not quite unknown
to us, may, as suggested, state by whom he was engaged to point
the blooms— the “second day?” We do not see why he should
decline to do this, though he is at liberty to withhold his name from
publication.

“Berks” has evidently not read our article carefully. We have had
far too much experience to pronounce judgment on a case after hearing
one side only, and we should be the less likely to decide against duly
appointed officials, because we believe that competent adjudicators are
correct in nine cases out of ten when protests of misjudgment are
entered ; but as even judges are human, they are liable to err occasion¬
ally. The correspondent whose letter we published clearly stated, “ The
Committee so far entertained the protest as to appoint a competent
expert to point the different stands,” and he sent us the tabulated
results, going on to say, “ The Secretary afterwards told the ‘ protestors’
that the Committee acknowledged the misjudgment.” What could be
more precise? We then said, “ If the writer of the letter had made no
mistake,” we had a case of judging the Judges, and finding them
guilty ; and if the allegations were true, undoubtedly that would be so.
That is our reply to “ Berks ” on that clause in his catechism.

We pass to another in which he not obscurely implies that we pub¬
lished a statement which we knew to be false. Does he appreciate the
seriousness of his inuendo ? We stated we did not know the name of
the Society when we published our article on December 7th. We
neither knew it nor wanted to know it, preferring to present the subject
on its merits as presented to us, and to guard ourselves against any
charge of prejudice or bias on the part of persons who appear to be so
constituted as to be unable to refrain from attributing unworthy
motives.

“ Berks ” conveys the impression that he has found the Editor of the
Journal of Horticulture guilty of falsehood. That is “judging” with a
vengeance. What are his grounds ? The sending of copies of the Journal
of December 7th to the members of the Edinburgh Committee ! “ Berks ”
is a gardener of great ability, intelligence, and acumen, but even he is
liable to err, and has most assuredly erred in this case. We received a list
of names hours after the issue was published on December 7th, for the
very purpose of sending the copies in question, and previous to that
neither the Edinburgh Show, nor any other show, had been mentioned
to us. “Berks” will now see “ why ” they were sent. The desire that
they should be was, however, a very proper one, as every gentleman on
the Committee was entitled to see what was said, for the purpose of
making any counter-statement, which we specifically promised to insert.
We kept our promise, as “ Berks ” very well knows, not by publishing
his note only, but a far more explicit denial by Mr. Laird of the two
caniinal allegations of the correspondent whose letter we inserted on
page 503. As at the moment of writing we have not received any reply
from this correspondent to the Secretary’s letter on page 530, we
presume he has sent his name to Mr. Laird as invited. If he has no
reply to this gentleman, he will tacitly confess that he is guilty of false
assertions.

Returning to “ Berks.” He regrets we should have published the
letter of an exhibitor, who sent his name and address, without making
inquiry into the truth of the charges. If “ Berks ” knew as much about
editing newspapers as he does about gardening he would not let such
“ regrets ” trouble him. Why should we not have made roundabout
private inquiries, and obtain documentary evidence relative to the
accuracy of one of his own inaccurate suggestions before publishing his
letter containing it ? On matters of public interest nothing brings out
the truth so well as publication, and nothing so much strengthens those
who are right in their action, and weakens those who are wrong in their
assertions.

Our article excited wide interest, and brought out valuable comments
and suggestions on various phases of exhibiting — reckless protests,
unseemly conduct by losers, judges’ qualifications and methods, show
managers failing to comply with their own rules, with other collatera 1
matters were discussed, all of which require thoughtful attention withe
a view to the avoidance of errors, and making, as far as is possible, the
shows of the future better and more agreeable to all than some of the
past have been.

N.B. — Just as we are preparing for press a letter arrives from the
original complainant in this case, in which he states he intends sending
a reply to Mr. Laird next week. We shall be obliged if he can let u.s
receive it not later than Saturday this week, as our pages have to be
advanced in preparation for adjournment over Christmas.

Into the special merits or demerits of the particular case which has
given rise to the present correspondence I do not desire to enter. I
write simply with the object of emphatically endorsing certain remarks
of your correspondent “ E. K.” (page 530) concerning “ judging ” iu the
abstract. Truly, the science of judging is in a condition verging on
chaos. No definite principles or rules exist, and the personal tastes and
idiosyncracies of the individual judges dominate the situation of the
moment, and offer to the exhibitor a standard which is ever varying,
and which he can never hope to retain, even if he can grasp it.

This essential peculiarity of “ present day ” judging was well brought
out in your columns a few weeks ago. A correspondent and two other
judges — not suggested to be less competent than himself — bad to judge
Dahlias. Your correspondent took one view of the consideration which
should influence the award of prizes, the other two judges took another
view. Who was right I do not know, neither does it matter ; but here
we are shown that it was but a matter of chance that the majority that
day went the one way. Possibly at a later show your correspondent
found one of his fellow judges of his way of thinking upon the point at
issue, and so the verdict was reversed. But here, again, we have chance
as the dominating element, and not judging on systematic and definite
lines, in accordance with a standard created by authority, and in the
light of which all competitors may cultivate their flowers.

“E. R.” suggests “that the National Chrys§,Dthemum Society should
formulate and publish a clearly defined code of rules for the help and
guidance of the judges, which would undoubtedly be recognised as the
standard of all societies.” This is exactly the suggestion made by me
in the paper on “ Judging Chrysanthemum Blooms,” read before the
General Committee of the National Chrysanthemum Society on the
11th inst. Until such a standard shall be created judging can never
be completely satisfactory, even at the hands of competent judges. At
the hands of the incompetent it becomes little better than “ confusion
worse confounded.” — Charles E. Shea, The Elms, Foots Cray, Kent.

Some of your capable correspondents having in my opinion given
conclusive evidence re the two difficulties lately mentioned in the
Journal I will not trouble you with my view. What I wish now
mainly to refer to is “ point judging.” I have no desire to be egotistical
when I say that during the twenty-seven years 1 have acted as a judge
I have frequently adopted the practice as being a great help in assisting
me to form a correct judgment on the matters before me. I learnt the
idea from a Hampshire horticulturist, who told me he had used the
method for many years when judging, what him and me were then
doing — viz., cottage gardens situated in different portions of a scattered
parish. The gentleman in question has been dead some years now, and
was over eighty years old when he died. I mention this to show that
judging by points is by no means a new idea. After all that has been
and can be said in favour of point judging, it never can be mathemati¬
cally correct. Some people speak of it as if it were so.

“ E. K.” (page 530) expresses my ideas best on this matter when be
alludes to the different spec acles we weak human mortals are necessarily
compelled to see mundane matters through. After all, point judging is
but a help to an otherwise well balanced, well informed mind in forming
a correct decision. I am not writing to run down point judging in the
least, knowing full well the great value of “notes” in judgiug the
many objects brought before the Judges at horticultural exhibitions,
and the usually very limited time allowed them to do their work. In
conclusion, allow me to say that the “ experts ” now so frequently
spoken of as necessary at exhibitions will be likely in time to cause
managers of such exhibitions much expense and trouble. Why not
have a separate “ expert ” to judge, say, Turnips, Carrots, Cabbages,
and Cauliflowers ? We have them for Onions and Potatoes, not to

December 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

657

mention in the same breath our reigning queen of the winter flower —
the Chrysanthemum . As an old-fashioned practical gardener on the
other side of my Jubilee year, I almost dread going to act as a judge at a
show nowadays, not considering myself an “ expert ” in anything. —
Yorkshike Gardener.

At the Birmingham Chrysanthemum Show, in a conversation with
Mr, Robert Owen, I remarked what a blessing it would be if at flower
shows the arrangements should be completed and plants in position over¬
night, with oiily the cut blooms admissible early next morning, so that
judging could commence promptly at nine o’clock, or at the latest at
ten o’clock. I have had considerable experience of flower show work,
and have known instances at Edinburgh when everything was com¬
pleted overnight, and judging commenced before breakfast. In
Belgium I have seen this done, and at Shrewsbury the principal
portion of the plants are to a great extent in their position overnight.

I hold strongly the opinion that all award cards should be placedj^on
the exhibits properly and legibly filled up before the public are
admitted ; and this and careful judging can only be done by giving
more time for the work. Then, also, there should be a heavy fine of 6s.
or lOs. for anyone entering in any class and not filling it, unless notice
to the contrary is in the Secretary’s hands twenty-four hours before the
morning of the day, so that the Superintendent of the staging of the
exhibits may be able to have all spaces closed up, and himself saved
much trouble and worry. — W. D,

NEW VIOLAS.

{Concluded from page 439.)

It appears to me, so far as I can judge at present, that at least
fifty new varieties will be shortly sent out for the first time, and
although it is strong evidence of the popularity of the Viola, I am

Fig. 80.— L.ELIA FINCKENIANA. {See page 540.)

Notwithstanding the magnitude of this Exhibition, everything is
obliged to be ready by ten o’clock on the morning of the show, and the
judges start at their work immediately, and have invariably finished by
the time the public are admitted.

Birmingham is alluded to in page 530 of last week’s Journal, and
the rule is strictly enforced of clearing the hall at eleven o’clock. Still,
that does not allow of sufficient time for the judges to do their work
with ample time for consideration, and for the oflScials to get the
prize cards properly filled up, whch I regret to say at some exhibitions
is done in a very slovenly manner. This is not the case at Bir¬
mingham, for at no exhibition in the kingdom is this work better done.
And then the award books have to be made up for the reporters of the
local daily papers, certificates and special awards made to honorary
exhibits, and many little details seen to, so as to let matters run in a
pleasant groove.

very much inclined to think that others will agree with me that these
are far too many new ones for one season. These are in various hands,
Messrs. Bobbie & Co., Smellie, Irvine, Pye, Paul, Forbes, and others,
and many of the finest have been raised by Mr. J. B. Stuart of Belfast.
My descriptions of the new ones must be necessarily brief, and I shall
confine myself to those I have seen and know to be good. Of their
bedding out properties I am unable to speak, excepting Buke of Clarence,
and this is a fine variety for that purpose. All are more or less beautiful
as outdoor plants, although some bloom more freely than others.

The following are the new varieties which are to be introduced in the
spring, and which I have seen, and arranged alphabetically with the
raiser or introducers’ name appended — viz.,

Blue Garter (J. B. Stuart).— Very like Skylark, but with lighter
coloured margin.

Carissima (.1. B. Stuart).— Veined rosy lilac and white ; fine.

558

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 21, 1893.

Cherry Parli. — I saw this at York, and it is very like Annie King;

Commodore (J. D. Stuart). — A distinct shade of pale blue, evidently
a fine variety for forming masses.

Con O'Neil (J. D. Stuart). — White with rich stripes of violet purple;
extra fine.

Diva (J. D. Stuart). — Pure white, small bloom, and entirely rayless ;
a’charming flower of good form.

Duchess of Rothsay (Dobbie & Co.). — A much improved Countess
of Kintore, and very fine.

Duke of Clarence (Irvine).— Rich black with deep blue blotches ; a
very handsome and distinct variety.

Erin (J. D. Stuart). — A rich coloured striped flower ; fine.

George Lord (Steel). — Sulphur yellow, with a deep orange central
blotch ; a very fine rayless variety.

Hibernia (J. D. Stuart). — Rich purple striped, distinct and fine.

Jane Bell (Irvine). — Heliotrope clouded with mauve, fine and
distinct.

Lady Borthioich (Irvine). — A charming variety, and distinct.

Lady Dufferin (J. D. Stuart). — White, marked with pale mauve or
heliotrope ; distinct and fine.

Lillie Langtry (Dobbie & Co.). — A fine and rich coloured striped
variety of good substance and form.

Lovelight (J. D. Stuart). — White, with a distinct Picotee margin of
blue lilac, and very pretty and distinct.

Maggie Todd (Irvine). — Rich violet clouded with purple, lighter
coloured top petals ; a handsome variety.

Mahogany (Smellie). — Bronzy crimson veined with lemon; bright
and fine, and very distinct.

Mary Stuart (J. D. Stuart). — White, a little tinted with cream ; an
extra fine, quite rayless, variety of good form.

Miss Emily Revh (J. D. Stuart). — A bright carnation-striped flower ;
distinct and fine.

Mrs. Joseph Chamberlain (J. D. Stuart). — Rose clouded with lilac;
a distinct variety.

Mrs. C. Kay (Dobbie & Co ). — Raised by Mr. C. Kay of Gargunnock.
White bordered with heliotrope ; a distinct and pretty variety.

Mrs. Joseph A. Olliver (Irvine). — A very fine variety.

Mrs. Scott (Steel).— White, with a yellow blotch below the eye, and
quite rayless and of excellent form.

Pride of Etal (Steel). — White, bordered with pale lilac, retaining the
“ Violetta ” style of flower ; a bright, distinct, good variety.

Prince of Orange (Dobbie & Co.). — A rich, deep golden yellow self ;
a decided acquisition in every way, and reported to be a good bedding
variety.

(Steel). — Creamy yellow of “Sylvia” type.

William (Irvine). — A grand flower, of fine form and substance,

very rich black violet, blotched and clouded with pale blue.

William Jones (Irvine). — A Countess of Kintore style of flower, but
smaller and of exquisite form.

1 have also seen other fine varieties raised by different growers, but as
I have no knowledge of an intention to introduce them until the autumn
of 1894 or spring of 1895, there is no necessity for alluding further to
them now. There are likewise many other varieties which are being
introduced for the first time by Messrs. Dobbie, Irvine, Pye, and others
which I have not seen, and therefore they are not mentioned here.

It will be noticed, as before mentioned, that many of these new
varieties have been raised by Mr. J. D. Stuart and Mr. McKee, both of
whom often send me blooms of their seedlings, and both are on the right
track in raising some very fine varieties, and they pass into other hands
for distribution. I am unable to allude to Mr. McKee’s new varieties,
as their distribution is so uncertain, but I think Mr. Irvine will be
offering some of them, and I can safely say that his Tara, The Clown,
Decorator, Spray, and Charm will be acquisitions. Mr. McKee’s
Countess, Duchess, and Magnet (the latter especially, and already in
cultivation) gave him fame as a raiser. Mr. J. D. Stuart has been
most successful, and at the great Pansy shows of the midlands has
exhibited so many good seedlings, certificates were granted to some of
them, only real merit being recognised. Messrs. Dobbie also have other
new varieties, but I have not seen them. — W. D.

It will be clearly noted by those persons who read the notes on
recently introduced varieties by your correspondent “ W. D.” (page 438)
we have now arrived at a period when these plants are very popular. I
cannot speak as an old cultivator myself, but I certainly do grow the
majority of the catalogue varieties, both new and old. My object in
sending these notes is to protest mildly against the constant influx of so
called novelties. A glance at the list furnished by your correspondent
will suffice to show the practical growers that, at least, half of the
varieties should never have been brought before the public. It would,
of course, be very unwise on my part to particularise, but I know at the
present time many of the varieties introduced three years ago are now
discarded from some collections. I would not have my name associated
with a Viola I knew would be ultimately discarded; neither would I as
a trade grower introduce a worthless variety. The time will come
when our Viola specialists will have to exercise the same discretion as
the rosarians do at the present time.

Viola growers are now sacrificing everything for large flowers, losing
sight entirely of the habit of the plant, a point, I take it, as of- equal
importance to the flowers. What is the use of a Viola plant that will
grow a foot or more in an upright direction like a Pansy ? yet how
many of our modern varieties come under this head. Exhibitors to

some extent are responsible for the introduction of these unsightly
growing varieties ; so long as the flower is large and distinct, it would
appear they do not mind any other defect. I saw several of our new
varieties last season that were more than a foot high tied to stakes,
and this in a dry season. While the exhibitors make size the principal
point in their flowers, or appear to do so, we shall continue to receive
the annual quota of these “ leggy ” varieties. We have many dwarf
forms to work upon, and I think we should do well to discard this class
of leggy plants which is now in the ascendant. The Ardwell Gem
family of Goldfinch, Duchess of Fife, and White Duchess, are all models
as far as habit is concerned, the foliage being on the surface of the
ground, forming a pretty carpet.

We want the hybridiser to persuade the blooms of the tufted plants
to look up. Dr. Stuart of Chirnside appears to be on the right track,
for his Sylvia, a creamy white with good habit, possesses nearly all the
characteristics that go to make up a fine Viola. Blush Queen, by the
same raiser, is of good quality, while the Violetta type certainly opens up
a new field for Viola raisers. The foliage and habit are all that can be
desired, now we want larger flowers, to make almost an ideal Viola,
with a tendency to early flowering added thereto. 1 should like other
Viola growers to give us their opinion on this most important matter, for
I think it only wants pointing out to start the raisers of new varieties
on a different track. — J. B. R.

Burnside’s Bijou on Tea Roses.

Ip there be any royal road to a knowledge of Rose culture it has
certainly been discovered by the Rev. F. R. Burnside, Birch Vicarage,
near Hereford. It is an age of expansion in literature, but it is also one
of precis, compendiums, and compression. Even the English literary
sentence has shrunk from fifty words in the Carolian era to twenty-five
in the Victorian. Those who love to meander through the reams of text
that are printed in gardening papers upon Rose cultivation will not get
much of this linked sweetness long drawn out in Mr. Burnside’s work on
“ Tea Roses : How to Grow and Exhibit Them.” He very soon comes
to the point. He has accomplished a feat which, so far as we know, is
unparalleled. He has compressed all he considers necessary to be known
on the cultivation of Tea Roses, on which he is an admitted authority,
in the space equal to about a page and half of the Rose matter in our
columns, the remaining pages, one-third of the book, being devoted to a
good descriptive list of varieties. Mr. Burnside’s Bijou is published by
Messrs, Jakeman & Carver, Hereford, and Simpkin, Marshall, Hamilton,
Kent & Co., London.

Roses Comte Alphonse de Serente and Comtesse de

Serenye.

The above have been confused in more than one instance by friends
of mine, and it may be well to note their great dissimilarity. Comte
A. de Serenye was introduced by Louvais in 1866, and is now almost
extinct in this country. No nurserymen’s list that I have contains it.
The shape is good, but the flower is small ; colour bright clear rose,
with a tinge of lilac and purple. It flowers very early, and almost
always produces a fair bloom in the autumn from the point of late
growths. At one time it was a great favourite with me, and is still
most distinct from any others.

Soon after Comtesse de Serenye came out, in 1875 (Lacharme), I
had an instance of its confusion with the older Rose, and this by a
trade grower, who said he had had it for years. He had mistaken
the name. Lacharme’s Rose is very double, and a bad opener during
any but a dry and cool season. I did not get a bloom in 1893. The
colour is a light rosy-peach, petals thin in texture, and very numerous,
easily spoilt by wet, but a magnificent Rose occasionally. The shape
of these two is different ; so, too, are the growth and foliage, while in
colour they are most distinct. I cannot help thinking a little more
care in avoiding names too suggestive of other varieties might be an
advantage. We have Duke and Duchess, Comte and Comtesse in so
many varieties, to say nothing of La France and La France of 1889,
that one not thoroughly conversant with Roses, or exceedingly careful
about names, is apt to confuse them at times. There is a Comte de
Paris in Hybrid Perpetuals and again in the Teas, and a Comtesse de
Paris also in the former class. — Practice.

The Winter Protection of Roses.

There is an old saying in regard to the cooking of hares, viz , “ first
catch your hare, &c.” “ W. R. Raillem’s ” note (page 540) in reply to
“ A Lover of Roses” (page 510), rather reminds me of this old saw, as
his advice in regard to mulching Rose plants with leaves would be a
troublesome matter to such of us as live in big towns or on the borders
thereof. During and since the recent stormy weather I think I could
more easily have collected a good mulching of the debris from roofs, in
the shape of broken slates, than an equivalent amount of fallen leaves.
Nevertheless, I quite agree with “ W. R. Raillem ” that if you can get an
ample supply of leaves and then have sufficient persuasive power over

December 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

569

these erratic particles of vegetable matter to induce them to remain
quiescent, there can be nothing better or more satisfactory.

But, unfortunately, both 1 and many others do not live in or near
sylvan glades, where there are more than enough for everyone of the
fallen leaves of autumn, so we must adopt some other plan to circumvent
the machinations of Jack Frost, and, faute de mievx, we must adopt
what is really the only other effectual mulch, i.e., either earthing up
or the use of long or short manure.

I do not think it is absolutely necessary to dig in this mulching
after its primary use is over, nor do I adopt or advise so violent a
method with the risk to roots involved therein, but in the spring I
spread out the manurial covering over a larger surface than that on which
it has rested in winter, and later on, during the early summer months,
this mulch gets gradually absorbed and amalgamated with the soil in
the process of gently hoeing or forking over of the surface.

I know some advise the complete removal of the winter mulch and
the use of strong manurial water as a stimulant, but I adopt the plan I
mention, although I also give artiticial watering and help the Rose
roots with concentrated manurial stimulants applied to the surface.

I believe that on the question of watering I am not in agreement
with “ W. R. Raillem,” but here again I can claim there is good reason on
my side ; it is an absolute necessity for me to water, as if I did not clean
my trees by artificial watering the foliage would get clogged and suffer
from the impurities which are inseparable from the atmosphere of a town
80 large as Croydon. — Charles J. Grahame, Croydon.

Having tried “ J. A. W.’s ” (page 539) suggestion of burnt refuse as
a protection for Teas I can thoroughly endorse all he says, and 1 think
it is improved if mixed with road scrapings. I adopt three kinds of
protection in the autumn for established dwarf plants. With the very
tender sorts I put three or four spadefuls of soil in the centre of the
plants ; with those of a more robust nature I hoe the bed roughly, and
gather a few inches of soil round the stem ; and with the very hardy
Teas I hoe the ground, but do not stop here, as over all I place a pro¬
tection of long manure. My plan is to put the manure on fairly thick,
and to occasionally lightly fork the top, and so keep it as dry and sweet
as possible, the nutriment being washed down by rain and snow to the
surface of the soil. Then in the spring I take off about two-thirds, and
fork in the remaining manure lightly.

“ W. R. Raillem’s” remarks are always valuable, but I think he
under-estimates the value of manure so applied as instanced in his reply
(page 540), to “ A Lover of Roses ” on page 510. My experience is that
a winter top-dressing of manure can and does act both as food and
protection ; also as the manure is not then too fresh I do not see how it
can injure the roots, and the slight forking can surely do very little
harm to the surface roots. In fact experience has convinced me that
the more the surface is lightly disturbed the more the thread-like
roots seem to grow and revel in the liquid manure and mulching which
they receive when the buds are forming.

Is “ W. R. Raillem” really serious when he advocates a covering of
leaves ? If so how many feet in thickness should they be put on, as dry
leaves have a habit of blowing away, and how would he overcome this
difficulty ? I very much doubt whether leaves would act as a suitable
protection, as they hold the moisture and tend to make the ground
sodden and sour when put on in a dry state. I wish my leaves would
all fall in a fortnight, but having Limes, Chestnuts, Elms, Oaks, Beech,
and other trees, I think in my case it would be nearer the mark if I sail
two months. — R. M. D.

Manuring and Transplanting Roses.

I HAVE read both of the interesting notes upon pages 510 and 540
touching on this question. I cannot say that I entirely agree with
either ; but “ W. R. Raillem’s ” remarks against the use of short
manure as a winter mulch I can endorse from many years’ experience.
We all endeavour to avoid surplus moisture at the roots of Roses during
the winter ; why, then, place short manure around the most vital
portion of our plants ? Few materials will retain the wet more than
the thoroughly decayed manure so frequently recommended as a mulch,
and we should bear in mind that frost is doubly injurious when com¬
bined with wet ; yet many still advocate a saturated substance as a
winter protection. “ W. R. Raillem ” does well to call attention to the
little use of forking-in an exhausted dressing during the spring, it
being of small service except the ground be naturally heavy and with
the object of lightening it.

I would also like to know in what way the juices washed into the
soil by rain can benefit Roses while at rest. We should not think of
following this plan with pot Roses ; always affording stimulants while
growth is being made, and the plant is in need of it. Winter manuring
seems to me a great mistake. In the first place much of the juices are
absolutely wasted, while all of the benefit derived from the rising
ammonia is lost. By allowing the air and frost greater action upon the
soil, and then mulching and forking in the manure carefully during
spring, I am convinced that the same amount of labour and stimulants
may be applied to fuller advantage. Wet manure is no protection to
the base of a Rose. It is not needed excepting during severe weather,
and at these times the whole body of the manure is frozen. The
“ long ” or strawy manure is liable to be no more or less than a sodden
mass in a very fev/ days after application. It also blows away, and
makes the whole place untidy if dry ; and this at the very time when
-ts presence is most needed. A quiet frost does little harm compared
>0 the same W’hen accompanied by keen, frost-laden winds. These

search the whole wood, and are particularly trying, and they demand
a great deal of sap from the roots if the wood is to be kept plump. In
proof of this, note how quickly unestablished plants shrivel during
their prevalence. My observations have given me the impression that
severe frosts, with a quiet or still atmosphere, do little harm provided
the plants surrounding are not wet, This, and the waste already
pointed out, has caused me to cease mulching with decayed manure
during the winter.

A little of the ordinary soil drawn around the base of dwarfs, and
a few branches of Birch, Spruce, or Gorse fixed in the soil around
the more tender varieties is far more rational. As “ W. R. Raillem”
points out, the roots are already protected by the soil, and the wood is
the chief part to shelter. The amount of wind and frost which a few
branches will keep off is scarcely credible by those who have not tried
this plan. They are so easily applied and removed, and they answer
their purpose when most wanted, not being found yards away, brought
up by the first impediment to their flight before the very frost-laden
wind we wished to protect the Roses from.

I have seen Roses wrapped up with fern and litter as carefully as
if they were some occupant of the sub-tropical garden ; far more pro¬
tected than the same person’s Myrtles and Magnolias. This is unne¬
cessary, as well as being harmful. The wild Roses are among our
hardiest shrubs, and none of our garden varieties need more than the
severe brunt of a sharp winter turned from them. When over-protected
the wood cannot be exposed to sharp spring frosts with impunity, while
if covered too long we get premature growth of no value whatever ; in
fact, only a severe drain upon the plants. My plan of placing a few
boughs among them admits air and light freely, while acting as sufificlent
break to severely keen winds. — Practice.

Winners with Seventy-two Roses.

We regret having to trouble you again, but as you will perceive from
our last letter, we merely wished to correct a mistake on page 494 in
” D., Deal's,” remarks, where he distinctly states that Messrs. Harkness
and Sons carried off every first prize for “ seventy-two’s ” in the kingdom.
Messrs. Harkness, in replying to our letter, state on page 540 that the
prize offered at Tibshelf was for fifty varieties. Now the wording of the
schedule is as follows, viz., ‘‘Roses, seventy-two blooms, fifty distinct
varieties ; ” whilst the wording of the Elland schedule is, v z., ‘‘ Seventy-
two Roses, twenty-four or more varieties.” We herewith enclose the two
schedules referred to, and whatever Messrs. Harkness make of it, we
still maintain and claim these prizes to be two of the ‘‘seventy-two’s”
in the kingdom, and the Tibshelf ‘‘seventy -two” was the best and
keenest contested of the season.

We cannot perceive where Messrs. Harkness’ seven firsts come in in
competition with us, and we still maintain having sixteen firsts to their
two. If they had more firsts, then they were in clas es in which we did
not compete. We trust this will now be sufficient to show that we won
at least two of the seventy-two’s in the kingdom, and the only two for
which we competed. — James Cocker & Sons.

[Our correspondents have quoted correctly from the Tibshelf and
Elland schedules referred to. We have returned them to Aberdeen.]

Hybrid Teas.

The report of the Committee of the National Rose Society says of
the new catalogue that it appears to have been much appreciated, and
that several foreign trade growers have already followed the Society’s
lead in introducing into their own catalogues a separate section for
Hybrid Teas upon similar lines to that adopted in the Society’s catalogue.
As a member of the Catalogue Sub-Committee I might be reasonably
supposed to be in thorough accord with the new classification adopted,
or at all events to have nothing to say against it ; but, unfortunately, I
do not think the arrangement satisfactory. I said at first I did not
think I could attend the meetings of the Catalogue Committee ; and, in
fact, I was not present at any of them. Undoubtedly I was in fault, in
that I ought to have declined altogether, or resigned later. Mr. Mawley
was also so extremely courteous as to send me a proof of the matters
decided on, so that I could give my opinions, and they were, I am told,
duly laid before the Committee. Under these circumstances I am either
an outsider who has a right to criticise, or in the position of a judge who
is in a minority on the Bench, and who in such cases has the right of
stating his own opinion, wherein he differs from his colleagues. I have
also the assent of the Secretaries of the N.R.S. to my stating my views
on the matter, it being understood that I wish to be quite loyal to the
decision of the majority, and to be fair and accurate in every way.
I think the catalogue is, and always has been, open to criticism on other
points, but I will confine myself here to the classification question. The
Committee seem to have made a change on an opposite principle to that
which prevails in another part of the catalogue. On the one hand they
retain the placing together of Teas and Noisettes in one class, and on the
other they separate Hybrid Perpetuals and Hybrid Teas into two. This

seems to me inconsis ent, and acting without principle.

It appears to me to be impossible to classify by drawing lines of
demarcation without definitions. What is a Hybrid Perpetual, a Hybrid
Tea, a Tea, or a Noisette ? At least, as H.T.’s are now set up in a
separate division, it maybe asked. What is a Hybrid Tea? Is it the
first cross only between a true Tea and a Hybrid Perpetual ? If so,
can it be proved that La France and Captain Christy are such first
crosses? or is it any cross? If so, why are not Margaret Dickson
(which through Lady Mary Fitzwilliam is a quarter Tea), Her Majesty
(which is even said to be a first cross), and others, classified as Hybrid

560

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 21, 1893.

Teas ? Again, if La France and Captain Christy are to be considered
H.T.’s, why stop there? Does not the whole of the Victor Verdier race
show the cross as much as Captain Christy ?

Once more, if we take certain from the H.P.’s strongly suspected of
being H.T.’s, should we not do the same with the Teas 1 Will anyone
deny that there is as much cross in Gloire de Dijon to separate it from
the true Teas, as there is in Grace Darling to separate it from the
H.P.’s? To take such well-known Roses as La France and Captain
Christy from the H.P.’s, where they have been sollong, was a strong step ;
not necessarily wrong in itself, but I think that definitions should have
preceded it, and that future results should have been considered. We
must be prepared, now hybridising is so much in vogue, for a H.T. to
be crossed back with the Teas, and its produce back into the H.P.’s,
and so on backwards and forwards tiP, as the coachman said of the
railway accident, “ Where are you ? ”

For these reasons, which I have made as brief as possible, for there
is a good deal to be said on the matter, I think the new classification
of Hybrid Teas to be unsatisfactory, and unlikely to be permanent. —
W. E. Raillem.

A Recent Slander.

Having been referred to on the subject, I should like, with your
permission, to write a few lines relating to an important personal matter
mentioned by Mr. Frank Cant at the annual meeting of the N.R.S.
The subject is mentioned in the admirable report of the Society’s meet¬
ing published by you on pages 540, 541, but some other remarks made at
the time in connection therewith are omitted. Mr. Frank Cant stated
at the meeting that there had been unfounded reports in circulation for
some time past in regard to his supposed aiding at Rose Shows his
intimate friend and neighbour, Mr. O, G. Orpen of Colchester, and
Mr. Cant said he wished to give a most unqualified public contradiction
to this slander.

I suppose that jealousy will at times make people blind to the merit
apparent to others, and we are aware, as Mr. Cant said, that when mud
is thrown some of it will stick. Other slanders have also been in
circulation, and it was time that they should all be brought to an end.
A matter of this kind may be more serious in its consequences to a
professional rosarian than to an amateur ; but everyone values his good
name, and we can all understand the annoyance given to both the
gentlemen interested in this particular matter.

Mr. Frank Cant, as a rosarian, stands second to no one in the king¬
dom. Mr. Orpen is less known except to those of us who are exhi¬
bitors. We who know both gentlemen personally have not given much
heed or attached importance to the reports in circulation, and I may
say that although, probably. I have run second more frequently than
anyone else of late to Mr. Orpen’s first (being truly a “ Ravensbury ”
to his “ Isinglass ” in five recent Rose contests), I have never attached
the slightest importance to the depreciatory and untrue remarks made
about him, as I have always felt confident that he won by sheer merit,
and deserved his success.

In the cultivation of Tea Rosea Mr. Orpen has almost discovered
the philosopher’s stone of Rose growing. I look to his being one of our
amateur champions in the near future, and he will be a worthy one.
“ noni soit q%ii mal y pense." — Charles J. Grahame, Croydon.

GARDENERS AND GARDENING.

[Read by Mr. J. Davies before the Chislehurst and District Gardeners’ Mutual

Improvement Association.]

Gardening is one of those aris which enables us to make the most
of Nature’s gifts. It has been said over and over again. He that makes
two ears of corn grow where only one used to grow, is a public bene¬
factor ; in other words, whosoever can increase the produce of the land
does a real service to the country. Gardening, however, takes a higher
stand ; its object is not only to increase, but to improve the produce.
It is for the gardener to learn from Nature what a plant requires, and to
afford that in proper quantities, and if the soil does not contain its
proper requirements, it is for the gardener to step in and supply the
want. It is well understood that what succeeds in one place may be a
complete failure a few miles away. Sometimes in the adjoining garden
crops that succeed with your neighbour may be a complete failure with
you, so different may be the aspect and soil, and so this is one of the
many reasons why gardening is never learn*^.

Study your employer’s interest in commencing your duties as
gardener, endeavour to find out the requirements and tastes of your
employers as soon as possible, and having done so, lose no time in
carrying those wishes out, for it must be remembered that it is they
who find the sinews of war. It often happens that a gardener has some
special favourite flower of his own ; it may be the herbaceous Calceolaria
or Cape Pelargonium, or perhaps Chrysanthemum on the large flower
system in preference to the smaller, and to most minds more useful
blooms. Be that as it may, endeavour to fall in with the new order of
things. Of course there are unreasonable employers as v.’ell as un¬
reasonable employed, and if found that tastes and temperament are
at variance with each other, it is better to seek “ fields afresh and
pastures new.”

Interchange of friendship and paying visits to other gardeners is of
the utmost benefit, independent of the pleasure socially. There is
always something worth taking note of to an observant man, however
small the garden might be. This reminds me how often one is struck
with the fact that in small gardens, with perhaps only one or two glass

houses, that much is done with very limited means ; on the other hand,
many men who are thoroughly practical and produce fine examples of
their work as long as ever convenience is at hand, and have an unlimited
purse at command, are altogether at sea when they have to manage a
garden under difficulties and on strictly economical lines.

Hybridising and making experiments are interesting, but however
laudable this branch of gardening may be it has its drawbacks. Many
employers have a wholesome dread of experimental gardeners as being
the most expensive, and are often paid high wages for simply amusing
themselves. There are many theorists who lecture here, and write there,
and talk everywhere ; but if you visit their places, to say the least, you
would feel disappointed. I am, though, willing to admit that there are
men who write for the press continually who are thoroughly practical in
every branch of their profession. Hybridising and experiments in my
opinion are better suited to the well-to-do nurseryman and affluent
amateur, for in many cases it is not a very profitable occupation,
however interesting it might be. An old friend of mine annually
produced a great number of seedlings of Zonal Pelargoniums, hoping by
a systematic fertilisation to have a blue flowered variety. I used to
visit him pretty frequently, and he always fancied he was getting
nearer his ambition ; but to this day, now some twenty years, I do not
think he has succeeded. Fortunately for him he had a very indulgent
employer, and one who to a certain extent encouraged him in his hobby,
though his garden suffered terribly through lack of attention. I rather
like a man with a hobby ; he is a very interesting individual, but do not
ride your hobby too hard, or disastrous results will probably accrue.

No doubt many gardeners will remember the late Mr. Mechie of
Tiptree Hall, Essex, and London some twenty or thirty years ago — with
what spirit and energy he entered on the task of converting a rather
barren spot into a model and fertile farm ; true, it had some natural
advantages in climate and aspect. I am now writing from memory
altogether, so am open to correction. He was considered to be a great
authority. Everything that Mr. Mechie did was taken note of and
reported in various papers, and was thought to be a great success ; but
notwithstanding that he had a splendid London business to feed these
experiments they were not a success. Then Mr. Peter MacKinley some
twenty-five years ago gave us such interesting reports in a tabulated
form as the results of his experiments with various kinds of Potatoes.
These were carried on for several years, but became very expensive. Most
of you will remember the late Mr. Clarke, of Magnum Bonum Potato
fame. He, too, spent the greater part of life in raising new varieties of
Potatoes, but died by no means a rich man. Mr. Laxton, who
worked most perseveringly for years in producing new varieties of
Strawberries and other things, did not make a fortune. I mention these
facts to show how much we owe to these men, who spent whole lives in
their endeavours to benefit the world at large. I think such sacrifices
as these should be recognised in some substantial way.

Exhibiting is the ambition of many gardeners, and a very laudable
one too. It has been said, however, that the best exhibition board is
your employer’s table. Be that as it may, be quite sure that its owner
is with you in your desire to show, then all will be well, for it entails
much expense in labour and materials, and unless this is well thought
out before it will rather surprise you when bringing it into practice.
Then there is the thought sometimes that everything is neglected for
the plants you are going to exhibit. Watch very carefully your
employer’s inclination. Directly you see he shows signs of being tired
of the business, fall in with his views, then all will be well ; but if you
continue your hobby trouble will follow most assuredly.

Order is one of Nature’s first laws. It is wonderful how much can be
done by a proper system of working. One man in commencing some work
will scatter his tools and material everywhere. The work will be begun at
all points and finished nowhere. Another man will well consider where
the work should be commenced and where it ought to be finished,
endeavouring all the time to keep it completed as close up as possible, so
that whatever occurs the work is practically finished as far as you go.
I fancy I hear someone saying, “ It’s all very well to talk, much easier
than doing.” That might be so, but it is surprising what can be done
by keeping these ideas before you. It is a good maxim. If you have
anything in particular to do measure the time it will take, and if you
think it can be done in one day try and do it ; if it will take a week
endeavour to do it in that time, and if a month the same ; it gives a sort
of stimulus to the work.

The rubbish heap is a necessity in every place, and often consists
of stones, weeds, leaves, pruning of trees, pot plants that are no longer
required, sweepings of paths, and so on, all in one confused mass. I
remember one gentleman remarking that there was no reason why a
rubbish heap should not look tidy. I think this is worth remembering.
It is a good plan to keep everything that will burn apart from rubbish
which will not ; also put stones by themselves for making roads or paths,
I have often seen what trouble there has been when mixed together ;
the attempts to burn or separate this mass, finally, perhaps, disposing
of them by trenching a piece of ground and so burying the whole, to be
turned up again at some future time.

In concluding this paper on “ Gardeners and Gardening,” I urge
all young men to make the most of their time at their disposal,
for assuredly much more will be required of them in the future than in
the past. There are many advantages now which did not exist a few
years ago, and if gardeners do not embrace these opportunities they will
have much cause to regret it. Mr. Stanford said, “ In the young man ;
firstly, be industrious ; secondly, have a settled plan ; thirdly, be ever¬
lastingly persistent in both. These, applied to fair ability, will win.”

December 21, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

661

rCHR

MUMS

-

National Chrysanthemum Society.

The last of the Floral Committee meetings for the present season
was held on Wednesday, the 13th inst., at the Royal Aquarium, when
Mr. C. Harman Payne presided. The exhibits were bright, in good
condition, and numerous, considering the lateness of the meeting, which
was rendered attractive by a large contribution ol cut Chrysanthemums
from Mr. R. Owen, to whom a silver medal was awarded for his collection.
Secretary Farson, a large incurved Japanese, a deep globular flower of a
dull rosy bronze, was commended. John Noble, another of the same
type, colour carmine crimson, with a paler reverse, tipped yellow, the
Committee wished to see again, together with W. G. Newitt, a white
Japanese, with long drooping florets flushed yellow in the centre. An
ingenious expanding show-board was exhibited by Mr. C. B . Shea ; it is
made in sections, each of which can be moved in any direction, so that
the board can be used for staging incurved as well as the largest of
Japanese. The Committee highly commended the exhibit, as it would
enable exhibitors to use their present show-travelling boxes.

First-class certificates were awarded as under : —

Owen Thomas. — A Japanese incurved of large build. The florets
are of medium width, curly at the tips, and of a bright, clear canary
yellow. One of Mr. Owen’s seedlings, who was the exhibitor.

Good Gracious. — A Japanese, with tubulated florets of remarkable
length. They are curly, twisted, and intermingled, forming a globular
and apparently solid bloom. Upon close inspection, and without
support, the flower falls open rather loosely. Its colour is blush pink,
passing to white in the centre. An American seedling shown by
Mr. Owen,

At the close of the meeting Mr. Kendall called attention to a bloom
of Henry Perkins, which some time since was certificated as an incurved
Chrysanthemum. It was resolved that it be transferred to the section
of Japanese incurves in the official catalogue of the N.C.S. At the close
of the meeting the Chairman, in the name of the General Committee,
thanked the members for their attendance during the season, and hoped
that the meetings for 1894 would be as interesting in every way as those
this season, which he ventured to think would be the case, considering
the remarkable progress the flower had made during the past few
seasons.

New Chrysanthemum Eva Knowles.

Mr. Knowles of Headlands, Pontefract, is the fortunate raiser
(from American seed) of a grand new Japanese variety. It is a sturdy
grower, and the blooms were good both from crown and terminal buds.
In colour it is crimson carmine, in size equal to Vi viand Morel, in
growth as good as Etoile de Lyon. — W. S.

Rooting Chrysanthemum Cuttings.

A WELL-KNOWN grower referring to best method of securing a good
strike of cuttings said that it was better to place several into a 5-inch
pot than to put them singly into small pots, as in the latter case the
soil will become somewhat soured through frequent waterings ere the
roots were fully formed. I called upon a gardener the other day who
said that suggestion was no doubt good when the pots were stood
on stages or shelves in houses where, of course, the soil would soon
dry, and need frequent waterings. “ I, however,” said he, “ root mine in
small pots singly, and stand them in a close frame on an ash floor, where
from the time of putting in after once watering, and give them only
light sprinklings with the best results.” I saw his cuttings so rooted,
and they were looking all that could be desired. — A.

Incurved Japanese Chrysanthemums.

[1 wish to correct the error I made on page 497 by stating that
Leon Frache and Mdlle. Marie Hoste were in the first prize stand at
the Reading Chrysanthemum Show. I should have said that the
varieties mentioned were in one of the prizewinning stands. — Beginner.

Being one of the judges at the Reading Chrysanthemum Show, I
have been somewhat interested in the discussion on the above question
in the Journal. I cannot understand “ Beginner ” (page 497) accusing
the winner of the first prize exhibiting unfairly. I am glad to notice
Mr. Lane (page 537), the winner of the prize, offering to give the names
of the twelve varieties he exhibited. Though by mistake he mentioned
Gaspard Rozain for Leon Frache, I have since had his word he staged
neither variety. I consider this class should be revised before another
season. With so many varieties now before the public there should be no
doubt, either to exhibitors or judges, what constitutes a Japanese
incurved. For example, why should Boule d’Or be allowed in that class ?
In judging at a show this season, where it was largely exhibited as a
Japanese incurved, I could hardly bring myself to believe it would be
found in the National catalogue classed as such. — Edwin Beckett.

[VVe have heard many expressions of surprise that Boule d’Or
should be classed as an incurved in the Japanese section of the N.C.S.
catalogue.]

New Chrysanthemums.

I NOTICE that Mr. E. Molyneux, in his useful notice of new Chrys¬
anthemums (page 514), refers to my seedling. Miss Dorothea Shea, as
having been sent out last year. This is a slight error, for as a matter
of fact, it was not sent out until the season 1893. Of course in a first
season a variety does not, as a rule, appear in its best condition ; it is,
therefore, the more gratifying to me to learn that, in this, its first year,
the variety in question furnished, in Mr. Molyneux’s opinion, “ the
finest individual bloom ” that he saw “ this season in a rather extended
tour.” — C. E. Shea.

The “ Shoesmith ” Cup and Tube
Invented by Mr. George Coppiuiof Croydon, and named in com¬
pliment to an excellent gardener and Chrysanthemum grower, this

FIG. 81.

receptacle for blooms, including Roses and cut flowers generally, is as
neat as it appears effective. The material is white pottery-ware, light
and smooth. Just within the cup is an indiarubber washer that grips
the tube and holds it w'here wanted, high or low, as the case may be.
There is also a washer in the neck of the tube that grips the stem of the
bloom, holding it in position without the aid of pegs or wedges. From
the cup and tube we tried there was no escape of water when held
upside down. The washers may be expected to relax their grip in the
course of time, but they must cost next to nothing, and can be inserted
in a moment. The material is breakable under rough usage, the same as
cups and saucers and flower pots, yet both have come into fashion and are

FIG. 82.

not likely to go out. It remains to be seen whether the “ Shoesmith ”
cup and tube will become and remain a favourite with exhibitors of cut
blooms. The appliance is ingenious, yet simple and worth trying. The
example shown in figure 81 is for incurved blooms, that in fig. 82 for
Japanese. The invention is “ protected.”

Hairy Chrysanthemums.

I AM afraid your correspondent “P.” (page 515) is not very
favourably impressed with these Chrysanthemums. Many of us thought
they would form a very valuable addition to our lists, but 1 fear the
majority of growers, like myself, have been sorely disappointed. The
advent of Mrs. Alpheus Hardy was hailed with delight, but very few
exhibitors place any reliance on it. In Louis Boehmer we obtained a
plant with a fine habit and good growth, but the less said about the
colour the better, unless the plants are grown naturally; under such

562

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 21, 1893.

culture the colour is far more attractive, and its floriferousness is
remarkable, I regard it as one of the best Chrysanthemums we have
for decorative purposes. Miss Annie Manda is said to be an improve¬
ment on Mrs. Alpheus Hardy. I ask where is the improvement ? In
W. A. Manda we certainly do get a good decided colour, but its hirsute
character is not too strongly developed. It is an excellent decorative
variety. H. Ballantine has nothing to recommend it, so far as I am
capable of judging. Like your correspondent, I have grown White
Plume during the past season, and am so favourably impressed with it
I shall grow a larger number next season. It possesses the true Louis
Boehmer habit and floriferousness, while the colour is pure white. I
certainly think it will make a good decorative variety, Sautel 1893 is
a variety of pleasing colour. — J. B. R.

Chrysanthemums in Baskets.

At the late Windsor Show substantial prizes were offered by the
Dowager Duchess of Sutherland for twelve blooms, any kind, arranged
in a basket or vase, to be cut with a stem not less than 1 foot in length,
retaining the foliage with the blooms. Seven competed, and a very
effective display this class produced. Where the colour of the blooms,
mostly Japanese, was chosen with a view of harmonising them with
hardy foliage, such as Cryptomeria japonica, various forms of Spiraea,
Mahonia, Bramble leaves, and such-like, the effect was pleasing. This
appeared to me as being an excellent way of utilising these large
blooms for decoration, and worthy of imitation.

Chrysanthemum Mars.

Anyone requiring a really good decorative variety should lose no
time in adding this to their list. As exhibition blooms go nowadays,
this Japanese is too small for the “ boards.” The best blooms are of
medium size, very full in the centre, the florets are broad and flat. The
colour is its great charm, being rich orange yellow, heavily suffused and
spotted with chestnut bronze. The habit of growth is most desirable,
being dwarf and carrying good foliage.

- Chrysanthemum Mrs. A. Hardy.

This variety seems to be a free seeding one, judging from the number
of new sorts obtained from it in this way. Mr. Godfrey sends me a
bloom cut from a seedling plant which exhibits a marked improvement
upon its parent in the massiveness of its florets, which are of greater
length, and possessing much more substance. The hirsute appendage,
perhaps, is not quite so striking as it is in well-developed blooms of Mrs.
A. Hardy, but the extra thick petals CDupled with the purity of its
colour is an equivalent to the loss of its hair-like addition. — E. M,

Damp-resisting Japanese Chrysanthemums.

Mr. E, Molyneux (pages 514 and 537) gives us such a good account
of new varieties that I should be glad if he, or some of your correspon¬
dents with knowledge of the new varieties, would give a selection of
varieties up to show size that are the best damp resisters. Many gar¬
deners are expected to maintain a display in the eonservatory, and
whether a bloom will keep three days or three weeks is a matter of
consequence to the grower. The following varieties are the best keepers
in my collection : — Mons. Freeman (best of all). Beauty of Castle wood,
Mrs. Wheeler, E. Molyneux, Japonaise, J. Shrimpton, Lord Brooke,
Princess Victoria, W. W. Coles, Mrs. C. Harman- Payne, Waban, and
J. S. Dibbens. — F. Geeson.

Habits op Chrysanthemums— A Suggestion.

It is now too late for the following suggestion to be carried out this
season, but in good time for the consideration of nurserymen and others
who may see fit to adopt it next autumn. It is this, namely, that if the
character and habits of the different varieties of Chrysanthemums — the
newer sorts, especially — were given, and less said about the splendid
colours, which rarely appear in the blooms when they are open, it would
be a step much valued by intending purchasers of plants and cuttings.
When a grower advertises a certain variety for sale and states its price,
it is presumed that the vendor or introducer has tried the plant first, and,
consequently, has a fairly full knowledge of the peculiarities of it as
regards growth. When customers at present buy a new sort they have
to devote the first season to the work of finding out the proper way to
grow it ; but if a few hints only were given in the first place, a
practical grower would be able to treat the variety with some assurance
of success. I have seen many catalogues of Chrysanthemums, and take
the following from one of them as being the nearest to what I mean.

“ Mrs. C. Harman Payne (Jap. Inc.). — Rosy blush, of immense size
and substance ; one of the best of the present season’s introductions.
First-class certificate. Very vigorous grower, 10-inch pot, at least five
shoots should be left on each plant, pot firm, use manure water sparingly.
Crown bud.”

“ President Borel (Ref. Jap.). — Brightest possible rose, pale golden
centre. One of the handsomest and most welcome of the season, grand,
vigorous grower, 8-inch pot, liberal supplies of manure water. Crown
and terminal bud.”

A grower cannot, with every variety, find out its proper treatment
during one season, but the time is sufficient to prove whether the sort is
very late, medium, or very early, and also whether it gives the best
flower from the crown or terminal bud. I will not take up your space
further than to say that if nurserymen gave some such description as
the above with all new sorts which they offer as worthy of cultivation,
they would earn the gratitude of hundreds of Chrysanthemum growers.
— G. Garner.

French Chrysanthemums.

Ever since I can remember the French raisers of new Chrysanthemums
have been seriously taken to task for the large number of worthless
varieties they have sent out, not perhaps without good reason at times ;
but, on the other hand, nobody can deny that many of our leading show
varieties are of French origin, and still continue to occupy a most
important position in the winning stands of the leading exhibitors at
our shows. Many of us expected a few years ago that the new seed¬
lings from America would in a short time eclipse the French ones, and
that the latter would be practically excluded from our shows in future
by the high quality of those from the States ; but I cannot helf) thinking
we are as yet a long way off such a consummation. It would perhaps
take a very patient man to tabulate the lists of English, French, and
American seedlings, so as to show precisely their relative value at say a
dozen of our leading shows, and even if this were done I feel sure that
the French seedlings would occupy anything but an unimportant
position in such a compilation. In looking over the reports of a few of
the early shows, it is most remarkable to find how many Japanese Chrys¬
anthemums of French origin have been staged, and how frequently some
of them, like Viviand Morel, Mdlle. Marie Hoste, and Etoile de Lyon,
appear in all the shows.

I have had the curiosity to put down roughly the names of the French
flowers reported to have been staged in two or three of the large classes
at Liverpool, the Crystal Palace, the National, Kingston, and Brighton
Shows only, with the result that twenty-three varieties are still con¬
sidered worthy of finding a place on the show boards of those who may
be considered leading exhibitors. As there are some people who fancy
our French friends have almost reached the length of their tether, these
names may be of interest to them, especially as the flowers are of
modern date in several cases, and do not include sports which have
been obtained from varieties received from the French. They are as
follows : — Etoile de Lyon, Viviand Morel, Mrs. C. Harman Payne,
Mdlle. Marie Hoste, Boule d’Or, M. Bernard, Bouquet des Dames,
President Borel, Madame E. A. Carriere, Condor, Alberic Lunden,
Pelican, Van der Heede, Madame J. Laing, Beautd Toulousaine, Mdlle.
Th^rese Rey, V. P. Calvat, G. Daniels, V.P. Darquier, Marquis de Paris,
Val d’Andorre, Madame Baco, and Louise Leroy.

These may be all regarded as established varieties, and in the hands
of the general public ; but there are others in the hands of the trade
which will be distributed next year, and consequently swell the list.
Many of these novelties are distinctly promising, and although the
French raisers, who have hitherto kept us well supplied, do not shine
this year, there are one or two new ones who may take their place, and
thus maintain the credit of their country for new Chrysanthemums.
Of these I consider Mr. Ernest Calvat is destined to take the leading
position as a raiser of new .Japanese Chrysanthemums, for although he
has only been engaged in the work for a period of three years there are
more of his seedlings now in the English trade than most of us are
aware of. Those which have been exhibited at the meetings of the
Floral Committee or which have been seen in good form at the
importers, are worth naming. It is unnecessary to attempt descriptions
for the present purpose, as they can easily be had from the trade cata¬
logues. They are Madame Calvat, Mdlle. Marie Recoura, Dr. Gache,
Exposition de Grenoble, L’Ami Etienne, Le Drac, L’Isfere, Louise,
Madame Ed. Rey, Madame Ch. Molin, Commandant Blusset, Madame
Ad. Chatin, Madame Ch. Capitant, M. Aug. Perrin, Mdlle. M. Ricoud,
Madame Zurich, of which there are sure to be some that will be seen
in good form next season. — C. H. P.

DESSERT TABLE COMPETITIONS.

I AM pleased to find that in answer to my inquiry (page 519) as to
the proper interpretation of the words of the schedule of prizes of the
Hull Chrysanthemum Show, as it relates to the dessert table class, the
answers of your numerous correspondents are so overwhelmingly in
favour of the judges who made the award. Mr. W. Iggulden (page 532)
describes my letter as a “ queer nut to crack,” but does he not also
extract the kernel when, after supporting the judges, he says, “If I
intended to compete for the prizes at Hull, I should certainly feel
justified in using four good dishes of fruit, both because the wording
admits of this being done, and more especially because I am certain that
would gain me a few points with the judges ? ”

“ A Yorkshire Bite” (page 532), however, attributes to me two quite
opposite opinions, a ludicrous mistake which an ordinary careful
reading of my letter would have saved him from. If I thought the first
prize was “ rightly awarded ” I should scarcely be so foolish as to believe
that “ if a protest had been entered it would have been disqualified,”^ I
expressed no opinion, but stated the case from opposite points of view
for the purpose of having openly settled a point which had been raised
by numerous visitors to the show. The instructive and interesting
replies of your able correspondents will, I think, dispel any mis¬
understanding that has arisen, and I hope help to secure a good
competition next year. — Edw. Harland.

Whether the adjudicators at the Hull Show were right or wrong
in their interpretation of the conditions which guided them in the
awarding of the prizes in the dessert-table decoration competition is
not a matter which I wish to enter into. I have pondered over the
views given as to what is the difference between a “ dessert table’’ and a
“dinner table.” Evidently “A. D.” (page 531) thinks there is a difference.
If he bad much experience as a decorator in large establishments he would

December 21, 1893, ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

663

think [differently. The remarks of Mr. Iggulden I fully agree with,
wherein he states that if his brother gardeners are well advised they
will endeavour, to the best of their ability, to keep up the old custom
of placing some of their best fruit upon the table.

If the framers of the schedule at Hull did not intend dessert to be
placed on the table, why was it described as “dessert?” This latter
word quite as much settles the business as “ only ” Chrysanthemums
with any hardy foliage to be used in its decoration. If dessert was not
placed, then there should have been spaces left for the number of dishes
intended.

I am well aware it is a different matter to arrange a table at a show
than at home, but at the same time these decorations are supposed to
lead to ideas for home decoration, although it is rarely they can be so
adapted. There is the silver to display, and which the majority of
owners take a pride in, and the decorations have to be so arranged to
fit in with this. The number of dishes of dessert are arranged accord¬
ing to the size of the table. “ Yorkshire Bite ” oversteps the bounds
of argument entirely, wherein he asks “ Was every exhibitor to load
her table with all the known wines and cordials, also all the home and
foreign fruit, both fresh and dried, that our fruiterers could supply?”
What a “ bite ” they would have 1 A table could be laid out
“completely” with four dishes or six dishes of fruit, to be varied
according to its size. A dessert table could be “ completely ” laid out
with only preserved fruits, although the lady or the gentleman of the
house, as the case may be, would think perhaps it would be a poor
dessert to be placed before their guests, that is, if they had a garden
where fruit was expected to be grown. — A Decokatoe.

At page 519 of Journal of Horticulture for December 7th, Mr.
Harland, one of the Hon. Secretaries to the Hull and East Biding
Chrysanthemum Society, solicits the correct view of the following
stipulation in the society’s schedule, viz , “ Dessert table 8 feet by i feet
completely laid out for six persons, only Chrysanthemums with any
kind of foliage to be used in its decoration.”

Following Mr. Harland’s request is the Editor’s desire to publish
the opinions of table decorators or show judges upon the subject, an i
having assisted in adjudicating on table decorations at shows, as well
as a fairly large experience in that particular art of gardening, I ven¬
ture an opinion as to the only construction it appears possible for either
exhibitor or judge to put upon the wording of the schedule. The
table of proper dimensions as required by the schedule is of
necessity provided by the Society, the competitor being requested by
strict stipulation to convert the same in a “ dessert table ” completely
laid out, that is to say, everything that is necessary to a fully prepared
dessert table, for six persons, must be placed upon it, the character
of the dessert used resting entirely with the exhibitor.

That the Society attaches primary importance to a well prepared
dessert table is evidenced by the words, “completely laid out,” as men¬
tioned by Mr. Harland, subordinating other adjuncts such as floral
decorations, so that any deviation from the strict wording of the
schedule must assuredly suffer disqualification in the event of a protest
to that effect. The following would appear more practicable in such
cases : — “ The most tastefully decorated dinner table, laid out for six
persons, only Chrysanthemums with any kind of foliage to be used in the
decoration, dimensions of table 8 feet by 4 feet.” — J. P. Leadbettek,
The Gardens, Tranhy Croft, Hull.

[Many persons who have had much experience in judging and the
interpretation of ambiguous terms would in this case differentiate
between “ laying out ” a table tastefully and artistically, and furnishing
it with comestibles. The condition of “laying out” the table for six
persons appears to have been complete in the number of necessary
articles for use ; the “ placing on ” the table of fruit and wine was not a
specified condition. In cases of doubt in law “custom” becomes the
determining factor, and it is undoubtedly the custom to specify that
fruit and wine must be placed on a dessert table when that is the
intention of show authorities.]

OSIERS.

(^Concluded from page 542').

Insect and other Enemies.

The green fly, a species of aphis allied to the Pea aphis, does
considerable damage to the Osier in certain seasons. If the plants are
much affected the tender shoot at the top is killed and the growth is
stunted, lateral shoots are thrown out, making the rods “snaggy,” and
so injuring the sale. Some kinds are more affected than others.

The “ black smother fly,” another of the aphis family, in certain
seasons also injures the rods in the same way as the green fly. The
tops of the rods are completely covered with them, the growth of the
Osiers is stopped and the crop injured. This aphis has a preference
for Glibskins, white new kinds, and all rods with a sweet skin.

The “scab” is a disease of the bark : the effects of an injury made
by an insect in the early growth. The injury shows itself in the form
of a scab or bad place in the rod, going through the bark and some way
into the wood ; at these places the rod will break when being peeled,
or if left brown will break, when being worked, therefore if a crop is
much affected it is a very great loss to the grower.

The larvrn of some moths and beetles, which are wood borers, are
sometimes found in the heads and in the rods themselves when left for
two-year-olds, viz., the goat moth, leopard moth, musk beetle, and the
long-horned beetle. The larva of the goat moth, however, requires two

or three years to mature, and the moth almost always chooses trees of
larger growth.

A great enemy of the Osier is a small round beetle, the Willow
beetle ^Phratora vitellinas), which bites the young rods close to the head
so severely that they break down with their own weight and come to
nothing. The beetle is rather more than a sixth of an inch in length.
It is somewhat variable in colour, from blue to green, with metallic
lustre, having faint spots upon the wing-cases. The body beneath is
of a reddish hue, the antennae are black. It is most tenacious of life,
and difficult to kill with water and pungent and poisonous solutions and
fumes. It comes forth in May from its winter retreats in the earth, in
rubbish, under the bark of trees, in the chinks and crannies of build¬
ings, posts, and rails. Fences, especially fences made of “ brush ”
woven between stakes, form admirable shelters for it. In short, any
refuge near the Willow beds seems to be suitable to keep the beetles
from birds and from the weather, for they are not affected by cold.
Having strong wings, they can fly considerable distance*. The eggs are
placed under the leaves in groups and without any regular arrangement.
In ordinary circumstances the larvae are found on the Willow plants
towards the end of June. They are about half an ineh long, dirty
white in colour, with black heads and rows of black spots along their
bodies ; they have six feet. In this country, asiin Germany, there are
two attacks, one in the spring, and the other in September and October.
To prevent the attacks of these beetles, flooding the Willow beds has
been resorted to where this can be done ariificially. Though they
are difficult to drown, this tends to decrease them, or at least
those below the water level. Many are ensconced under the bark of
trees, in posts, and hedges above the water mark. Flooding with sewage
has been found to be far more effectual than flooding with water. As
far as possible, rubbish, and any other possible refuges for the beetles,
should be removed from the Willow beds and their neighbourhood.
Many things have been tried to dislodge these insects, such a* soot,
sulphur, and other unpleasant] materials. Those who have seen Willow
plants growing luxuriantly in beds will appreciate the difficulties of
applying insecticides or insectifuges either in dry or liquid form. Paris
green and London purple have been experimented with and found of
some benefit. These require to be applied early, upon the first appear¬
ance of the beetle* and before the plants have made too much headway.
Care must be taken not to make the arsenical washes too strong, as the
Willow leaves are tender. Not more than 1 oz. to 20 gallons of
water should be used at first. Some Willow-planters have taken to
picking the beetles off by hand, and shaking them into vessels held
beneath the plants ; this operation is said to have been effectual in
small plantations.

The larvae of the eye hawk moth and the bufftip moth are found
feeding upon the Osiers, and also those of the puss moth, but not in
sufficient numbers to cause any real injury. The bufftips may perhaps
in some localities do mischief, as they are numerous at times and strip
where they feed.

A fungoid growth of the Osier is a kind of rust, similar to the rust
on Wheat. It comes off upon the clothes of persons moving amongst
the Osiers. The growth of Osiers would be retarded if severely affected
by rust.

Rabbits, when numerous, are very injurious, biting off the young
shoots and injuring others. Hares are to some extent injurious in the
same way, but not so much complaint is made about them as of rabbits.
Water rats in some districts do a certain amount of damage by cutting
a road through the young growth. Mice on fen land injure the heads
by biting them close to the ground, causing them to die.

Phrposes to which Osiers are Applied.

The following are the principal purposes to which Osier rods are
applied : —

Agriculture. — Nearly 25 per cent, of the supply of Osiers is used for
hand baskets for twitch and Potatoes, root and Potato skips, chaff skips,
riddle and sieve bottoms, hampers, flats, peds and baskets for fruit.
Potato hampers and sieves, and fowl baskets.

Manufactures and Trade. — About 40 per cent, of the supply of Osiers
is utilised in the manufacture of baskets used by cotton spinners, lace
makers, hosiers, confectioners, wine and spirit merchants, brewers,
carriage makers, fruiterers, gardeners, bakers, grocers, butchers, hawkers,
coal miners, and coal whippers.

Domestic Purposes. — About 10 per cent, of the Osier supply is used
for clothes baskets, cradles, wicker chairs, market and other baskets,
and small fancy articles.

Post Office. — The manufacture of baskets used 'to collect and carry
letters in the office, and of parcel post hampers, absorbs about 7 per
cent, of the supply of Osiers.

Railways, — companies use about 10 per cent, of the supply
for luggage barrows, meat and other hampers.

The remaining 8 per cent, is used for herring peds, baskets for
unloading herrings and other fish, smelt hampers, salmon baskets,
anglers’ hampers and baskets, creels, eel hives, and jugs.

In addition to the above summary of Mr. Little’s report, it may be
useful to direct attention to an article by Mr. W. J. Cochrane of Hetton-
le-Hole, Fence Houses, Durham, on the cultivation of Osiers as a profit¬
able method of utilising boggy or marsh land, published in the Journal
of the Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (5th Series, vol. v.,
1893). from which the following remarks have been reproduced : —

Provided there is a constant supply of moisture, any soil is suited to
the Willow, assuming, of course, that it be of such a nature as to supply
the requisite amount of plant food ; but the most favourable land is

564

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 21, 1893.

a drained bog, rich in “ humus ” or decayed vegetable matter, and
situated in the vicinity of water, either in the form of dykes, ponds, or
the sea.

All the varieties of Osier require a large amount of moisture ae
compared with ordinary farm crops. Stagnant swamps, however, are
not suitable for Osier growing, and such spots would require draining,
but not to such an extent as to cause the land in a few years to become
dry ; for it must be remembered that it is just as unreasonable to expect
a good bed of Osiers on a dry soil as on a too wet swamp. In the first
case they soon dwindle down, become stunted in growth, and in a short
time yield no return to the grower ; whilst in the second case, if too
much water be present, the frost and hoar-frost resulting therefrom tend
to destroy not only the tops and young shoots but also the roots. The
great objection to a too dry Osier bed is that during the spring the
plants make too great a call upon the moisture existing in the soil, and
thereby reduce it to such an extent as to cause a deficiency in the
summer and a check to the growth of the trees.

If basket work is the main use to which the Osiers are to be put,
perhaps the best kind to grow is the common White Willow, Salix alba,
which grows fast and attains a large size, yielding tannin and salicin,
while, in addition to its utility for basket making, its wood is suitable
for wattles, fuel, and chip. The common Willow, Salix viminalis, is a
very good Osier for general purposes, being suited alike to rough and
to delicate work; while a taller variety, the Long-leaved Willow, Salix
triandra, growing to a height of 20 feet, is one of the most useful of
all Willows. Amongst others, S. rubra and S. laurina may be recom¬
mended. Tbe Crackling Willow (S. fragilis) is rich in salicin, and at
the same time yields a fair amount of very good timber.

The method by which Willow-growing is extended is by means of
cuttings or slips, not less than 6 inches long, and having at least two
healthy buds, taken from good strong plants before the sap has risen,
that is, during the month of March for preference. Usually such
cuttings may be obtained dressed ready for planting at the rate of
about lOs. per 1000, but when they have not been previously prepared,
it is necessary to make a clean cut with a sharp knife completely round,
and immediately below a bud, just as you would treat slips of Eose trees
or other garden plants. All the buds and young shoots but three should
be carefully removed, one of them only will be required to grow, but
in every case three should be left, to allow for the possibility of any of
them failing to produce a shoot.

The slips should be put into rows, singly, about 2 inches deep, and
a few inches apart each way, and the soil should be very firmly trodden
down against the stem. This is done as soon after the cuttings have
been taken as is practicable — i.e., in March. During the summer they
will not require much attention beyond an occasional hoeing, except
in very dry weather, when they will be greatly benefited by judicious
watering.

However the soil of the future plantation may have been occupied
in previous years, it will be necessary to either plough it over and
harrow it level, or dig it, which latter plan, if well executed, is the
best, though it is the most expensive. If there has been a sward of
grass or other herbage, it must be pared off and burned, the resulting
ashes being spread over the land. If it is considered that drainage is
required, the tiles must not be placed less than 3 feet deep ; in the
majority of cases this will be unnecessary. If digging is practised,
the land may be trenched into beds 6 to 20 feet broad, according to
the size of Osier to be cultivated — cross furrows or narrow ditches
being formed to carry the surplus water. If the plough has been used,
the trenching and bedding up should be done soon after the harrows
have completed their work.

Transplanting should be left until the spring following the year in
which the cuttings were planted, when it may be done without fear
of injury. It is at this period that great care is needed to insure a
successful bed or “holt,” for it must be remembered that the plants
have to remain here for the rest of their life, and no amount of
trouble should be spared in their proper planting and establishment.
Bows should be struck out 3 feet apart on the higher ground (a good
distance between each water furrow being about 10 feet), so that the
rows will be at even distances throughout the plantation . The plants
should be placed uniformly 1, 2, or 3 feet apart (for general purposes
2 feet is the best distance) ; the larger species require more room than
this, but in some parts of England the smaller kinds of Osiers are
planted 12 inches apart, the distance between the rows being only
18 inches.

Before the plants are finally placed in the ground the shoots wnich
have formed from the extra buds may be cut off as close as possible
to the stem, allowing two or three buds to remain for the next year’s
growth, but all those shoots which would go below the ground must
be entirely removed. A spadeful of earth should be put round the
young tree, and firmly trodden down, so as to give it stability ; finally,
the land should be cleared up and thoroughly dressed for the ensuing
summer.

Flooding with sewage water, if skilfully and carefully practised, is
a great boon to the Osier grower ; but unless the plants are growing
in the immediate vicinity of some populous town or village this is
impossible.

On sewage farms, the number of which is rapidly increasing, it has
been the custom to grow grain and other crops, notably Cabbages ; but
the reluctance manifested among the inhabitants to vegetables grown
with the aid of sewage is so great that consumers prefer to buy an
inferior article from the market garden, To remedy this the attention

of the sanitary authorities has been directed to the growth of a mor '«
suitable and as productive a crop to take the place of others which
are no longer profitable ; and in the industry of sewage-farming,
Osiers now take a leading place on the list of products recommended
to be grown.

WQKK.foiitheWEEK..

FRUIT FORCING.

Peaches and DTectarlnes. — Earliest House. — When the flowers
show colour cease syringing the trees, maintaining, however, moderate
moisture in the house b^y sprinkling the floors on bright days in the
morning and in the early part of the afternoon. The temperature may
be maintained at 50° to 55° by day, ventilating from the first degree
upwards, and closing at the latter. Fifty degrees at night is admissible
in mild weather, 40° to 45° from fire heat being more advantageous than
a higher temperature. Directly the anthers show clear of the petals the
temperature must be raised in the morning to 50°, and kept between
that and 55° through the day, with ventilation, more or less, according
to the state of the weather, allowing an advance to 60° or 65° from sun
heat. The principle is to get stout blossoms, sturdy stamens with bold
pollen-laden anthers, and well-developed pistils ; then resort to fertilisa¬
tion on fine days after the house has been ventilated some little time.
If the trees are in good condition, and they are brought into blossom
under favourable circumstances, the pollen will be freely discharged,
and when this is the case the set generally is a good one, even without
artificial impregnation. It is desirable, however, to aid fertilisation by
shaking the trellis daily, or brush the blossoms over with a plume of
Pampas Grass, or a rabbit’s tail mounted on a small stick.

Second Early House. — The trees to afford ripe fruit in May or early
in June must be started without delay. Fire heat need only be
employed to keep out frost at night, and to insure 50° by day, above
which ventilate freely. The main point is to bring the trees on slowly.
The trees should be sprinkled on fine mornings and afternoons, but
damping the house occasionally in dull weather will suffice, for a close
moist atmosphere tends more to leaf growth than a sturdy blossom.
Examine inside borders, and give, if necessary, a thorough supply of
water slightly in advance of that of the house. Outside borders should
be protected with leaves or litter, so as to prevent tbe soil becoming
frozen .

Succession Houses. — Proceed with the pruning and dressing of the
trees, thoroughly cleansing the house. Dryness at the roots will cause
the buds to fall, so if there is any doubt give a thorough watering. It
will not do any harm in properly drained borders. Keep the temperature
as cool as possible to insure a long and complete season of rest for the
trees.

Pines. — Preparations must now be made for producing ripe fruit in
May and June. As Smooth-leaved Cayenne, Black Jamaica, and
Charlotte Rothschild, which failed to show fruit in October and
November, will not now throw up in time to ripen at the period named,
attention must be directed to such varieties as Queen, Enville, and
Providence. Choose at once those plants which have an enlatged base,
with a tendency to open at the centre, indications of the fruit being
shortly visible, and place them in a light house or pit, affording a brisk
bottom heat of 85° to 90°, a top heat of 60° to 70° at night, 70° to 75° by
day, with 10° more when the external conditions are favourable. Main¬
tain a genial atmosphere by damping surfaces other than hot-water
pipes on fine afternoons, and syringing the plants lightly once or twice
a week. Examine the plants for watering once a week, apply it copiously
when required, which will be about every ten days, using tepid water,
with a little guano or some fertiliser in it.

Figs. — Early Forced Trees in Pots. — As mentioned in previous
calendars early Figs are best secured from trees in pots. Early Violet and
St. John’s ripening first, and are followed by White Marseilles and
Brown Turkey. A slight warmth at the roots is highly beneficial, this
being furnished by two-thirds leaves and one-third stable litter, standing
the pots on 9-inch pedestals of loose bricks to prevent them settling,
and bringing up the fermenting materials so as to maintain a temperature
of 60° to 65° about the pots in the early stages. When the heat at the
roots is 70° or more during the early part of the forcing process the
growth is too rapid, and it may cause the first-crop fruit to fall at a
later stage. Where the trees were started last month for affording fruit
in April they will now be unfolding their leaves, and the temperature of
the bed at the base of the pots may be 75°. The temperature of the
hous^e should also be increased gradually to 60° at night, 65° bv day by
artificial means in severe weather, 5° more in mild weather. 70° to 75®
with sun heat and moderate ventilation, closing at 75°. Supply water
to the roots as required in a tepid state. Syringe the house and trees
in the morning and afternoon of fine days, damping the floors instead
of syringing the trees in dull weather.

Cherry House. — To insure a supply of ripe Cherries from the
middle of April onwards the house containing the trees employed for
that purpose must now be closed. Be sparing of fire heat at the com¬
mencement, not employing it unless absolutely necessary to maintain

December 21, 1893 ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

666

the temperature at 40° at night, 40° to 45° by day, ventilating at 50°,
and closing at that temperature. Syringe the trees early on fine after¬
noons, omitting it if there is danger of the buds not becoming dry
before nightfall. The border will be sufficiently moist through the
removal of the roof lights, water seldom being required under those
circumstances until the fruit commences swelling. If not in a healthy
state supply water to bring it into a thoroughly moist condition. If
dry trees in pots will require repeated supplies of water to secure the
thorough moistening of the soil to the base. In a light, airy, properly
heated structure Cherries are readily forced when established in pots
and grown under glass a year previous. Early Rivers, Black Tartarian,
and Governor Wood are excellent varieties. Half-stHndards are the best
for pots, or such length of stem as will give heads well up to the glass.

Cucumbers.— The weather has been favourable to Cucumber plants,
there having been a fair amount of sunshine. Light is very important
in the cultivation of the Cucumber in the winter, and now the days are
so short keep the glass as clean as possible both inside and outside. Do
not supply strong liquid manure too freely. It should be tepid, and is
better varied than always the same. Top-dressings of sweet rich com¬
post applied to the roots promote vigour, supplying a little at a time
and often, always previously warmed and in a moist root- favouring
condition. Do not overcrop the plants, and do not allow the fruit
to hang too long. They keep fresh several days after being cut if the
stems are inserted in saucers of water in moderate beat. Remove super¬
fluous fruits and growths as they appear, and tie the shoots as necessary.
Red spider and white fly are best subdued by painting the hot-water
pipes lightly with a cream formed of flowers of sulphur and skim milk.
It is also effectual against mildew. It is a good plan to sponge any
infected leaves with a solution of softsoap on the first appearance of
red spider, 2 ozs. to a gallon of water sufficing, aud dust flowers of sul¬
phur on any parts affected with mildew. Green or black aphides
succumb to dusting with tobacco powder, or careful fumigation on a
calm evening, repeating in the following morning early.

Where early Cucumbers or Melons are obtained from frames, and
there are no other means of raising the plants, some fresh Oak or Ileech
leaves with one-third of stable litter ought now to be thrown together,
and, if necessary, be moistened so as to induce fermentation. The heap
should be turned when warmed through alike to sweeten, to bring all
into a genial condition by turning the outside to the inside.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

Asparagus, Seakale, and Rhubarb. — Where a regular supply
of Asparagus has to be kept up with the aid of mild hotbeds in pits or
frames, fresh roots have to be lifted and introduced into this heat at
least every three weeks, shorter intervals being desirable if the demand
is heavy and the roots plentiful. Should we once more experience extra
severe frosts of long duration during January, this will greatly interfere
with the work of lifting the roots, especially if no precautions have
been taken of either heavily covering a portion of the old bed or that of
lifting enough roots, storing them in a shed cr other place where they
can be covered with fine moist soil and plenty of litter. On no account
ought the roots to be long exposed to frosty air or be dried in any way,
as this will have the effect of greatly weakening the top growth.

Seakale should also be lifted and stored in moist soil in readiness
for placing in the Mushtoom house or a warm dark corner. The
crowns of the old purple-topped form are usually quite hardy, but not
80 those of the Lily White, and these ought, theiefore, in particular to be
either lifted and protected or be coveied with ashes or litter where they
now are. Rhubarb requires no protection, but a severe frost may render
it impossible to lift the clumps when most wanted for forcing, and some
of these again should either be got up in readiness for forcing or be
protected where growing. If any roots of either Seakale or Rhubarb
are being forced in the open ground, the heating material should be
examined frequently. When largely composed of leaves these may
become cold and saturated, and require livening up with a little stable
manure or fresh drier leaves. If stable manure has been principally or
solely used, then overheating, especially after a change from cold windy
to mild weather, may occur. Remedy the latter dangerous occurrence
by opening out the heating material, banking over the tubs or pots
again according as this can safely be done.

Kidney Beans — These require a brisk heat, or say that of a
Cucumber house or Pine stove, as much light as possible, and should be
carefully watered. Syringing is not necessary, but if the pots are fairly
well filled with roots a little soot water or other liquid manure may well
be given occasionally. Sion House is one of the best for early forcing;
Ne Plus Ultra and the dwarf Osborn’s Forcing also being suitable. New
seed will always germinate the most quickly and strongly, the plants
throughout being of superior vigour to any obtained from old seed. If
wanted up quickly set the pots direct on ihe hot- water pipes. Not less
than twenty-five pots should be filled at once, the sowings being divided
by intervals of from a fortnight to three weeks. Nine-inch pots answer
well when properly drained, and nothing better than old Chrysanthemum
soil can be used.

Saladlngr. — If there are any signs of the Endive not holding out
well, or if Lettuces are always in demand, seed of any White Cos form
may be sown moderately thickly in pans or boxes of fairly rich soil, and
placed in heat to germinate. Before the plants become drawn and
damping sets in, transfer to shelves near the glass in a warm greenhouse
or other structure where a gentle heat is constantly maintained. There
should be no thinning out, the aim being to have a number of plants for
cutting over Mustard and Cress fashion when about 4 inches or rather
more in height. Sow seeds in two or three boxes at a time every ^

fortnight for succession. Early raised plants of either Golden Queen or
Early Paris Market Cabbage Lettuces force admirably in beds of good
soil on the top of a gentle hotbed, excellent hearts being had late in
March or early in April. Sow some seeds soon, and treat very much as
advised in the case of the Cos varieties for cutting young, only there
should be no crowding of the plants. Much Endive ought not, therefore,
to be introduced into these warm dark places at one time, but rather a
few plants each time at fortnightly intervals. Sow Mustard and Cress
rather frequently, or every week ; perfectly fresh good soil should be
used every time. Sow the seed thickly, the Cress on the surface and the
Mustard nearly so ; keep the soil uniformly moist, and cover with mats
or brown paper till the salading is IJ inch in height, when it may be
gradually exposed.

Seed Potatoes. — These ought from the first to have been separated
from and treated differently to the ware or cooking Potatoes, Should
all have been stored together then ought the first favourable oppor¬
tunity be taken of separating them, or otherwise those intended for
planting will, in common with the rest, sprout prematurely, and be
greatly weakened accordingly. It has been repeatedly proved that
much the best results attend the practice of planting medium-sized
whole tubers in preference to either small or cut sets. Therefore
select and store the requisite number of medium-sized tubers rather
thinly, and in a cool light place. They ought not to be stored in deep
baskets or boxes. If there are no suitable sheds let the seed Potatoes
follow Apples on the shelves in fruit rooms. The Ashleafs ought to be
stored in a single layer on smallest ends in shallow boxes or trays, as
should they lose their first strong sprout their value will be greatly
reduced. If a severe frost be anticipated all ought to be well protected,
but uncover after the frosts are over. If it is intended to force Potatoes
early either in pots, boxes, or pits, select a good short-topped early
variety, such as Mona’s Pride, Old Ashleaf, and Sharpe’s Victor, and
start them into active growth in a vinery or Peach house.

Ware Potatoes. — Allowing these to form long sprouts greatly
detracts from their quality when cooked, and should be prevented as
much as possible. When outside work cannot well be proceeded with,
the men may be employed in turning heaps of Potatoes, any that
are diseased being thrown out, and sprouts just beginning to form
on the rest rubbed off. Avoid storing them in great heaps, keep them
dark, and protect heavily whenever severe frosts are imminent. Potatoes
in clamps ought also to be examined, and if need be turned and treated
as just advised. A dry mild day should be chosen for this work, and
the heap be again heavily covered with dry straw banked over with
soil.

i

HE BEE-KEEPER.

• I . I . r .

M

APIARIAN NOTES.

The Weather and Bees.

The weather for the past few months has been of a most
changeable nature, calms and storms following one another in
quick succession, the same with high and low temperatures. On
the 8th, 9th, and 10th of December the thermometer ranged
between 9° and 32°, and on the 11th it stood nearly all day
at 51°. Storms were even more sudden, a main feature in
them being their eccentricity in blowing furiously in narrow and
diversified tracks. The great storm on the 17th ult. that de¬
vastated some parts in the north of Scotland, was with us, com¬
paratively speaking, very moderate, but the one on the 8th inst.
proved of a more furious character. Fortunately, however, our hives
were unmoved, although fully exposed to the full force of the gale.

Since October bees have not been long confined to their hives,
but at the beginning of November, early in the season as it was,
several hives of bees that came under my notice showed signs of
abdominal distension, and there were more dead bees at each than
were at the whole of my hives last winter. The cause was
not far to seek. These hives had young queens hatched in Aueust.
They were bent on breeding, and did so to a great extent. The
longest wintry weather at one stretch being the end of October and
beginning of November, the young bees did not get an airing in
time, hence their succumbing to the protracted confinement. I
have repeatedly shown the fallacy of the doctrine that aged bees
constitute a dwindling apiary, and that one of increase can only be
insured by having late bred bees, also that bees live during working
weather six weeks only. I possess at least half a dozen hives that
have had very few bees bred in them since June. The aged bees
are numerous, and I have no hesitation in saying many of them
will be alive next May, yet I never experienced a more trying time
for bees during the two months they were at the Heather than I
did this year. The first month was very stormy, and the other
windy, if with less rain, and often the bees had great difficulty in
reaching their hives. But they are still alive, although according
to the theory propounded every one should have been dead by the
middle of July. Bees are never old and prepared to die until their
wings become ragged and unable to bear their bodies aloft.

666

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 21, 189S.

As all my hives have had good flights, I have no fears of
further calamity from any form of distension ; but owing to
the changeable weather they have lessened their stores, and
some of them feel much lighter than I would have expected. Only
a few of them may suffer from short stores, but these will be
supplemented the first opportunity in January after their first flight
of 1894. This is necessitated, too, by the fact that young bees are
sure to be hatching by the middle of the month, or perhaps earlier.
A lesson from the foregoing should be valuable to beginners,
showing as it does the stupidity of stimulating bees to breed. The
bees in the hives mentioned never were fed, and, contrary to my
wishes, bred much, when I would have preferred them to be quiet.
Feeding bees, if they have sufficient stores, does more harm than
good, and crown feeders militate against progress, and increase
the labour of the bee-keeper.

Before despatching this letter I went to have a peep at the bees.
It is midday of the 16th, the thermometer is standing at 54° in the
shade ; every hive is busy, pure Carniolans the least. Punics are
busy carrying pollen, mostly from pea meal, but from flowers as
well. Hellebores are in bloom. Snowdrops and Primroses are on the
eve of opening, while a few of the hardy Chrysanthemums near
the house have their flowers fresh. The barometer in two days
has risen from 28T0 to 29 80. — A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

Humble Bees. — A correspondent writes from New Zealand: — There
was a very noticeable increase in the number of humble bees last year,
and this season it is more noticeable, much to the regret of all who
keep hives of the ordinary bees, for it is believed the large bee is de¬
priving them of honey, and that in a few years apiaries will contain no
honey. Last season some found that their honey was not nearly so
plentiful as formerly. The same complaint is heard everywhere, and I
have not yet heard a good word said on behalf of the humble bee, and
it is said that efforts are being made to reduce their numbers. If all
that is said against this importation be true, it is to be regretted that
they were brought out to fertilise the Clover.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Sutton & Sons, Beading. — Amateurs' Guide in Horticulture.

E, Webb & Sons, Wordsley, Stourbridge. — Spring Catalogue.

B. S. Williams & Son. — Flower, Vegetable, and Agricultural Seeds.

•^•All correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor” or to “The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

Chou de Burghley (iZ. C. TF.). — The specimen you send is fairly
representative of Chou de Burghley, and although there is no Broccoli
head in the centre, we can see a very distinct difference in the divided
head from that of an ordinary Cabbage. The miniature heads do not
usually form till the spring, and not then in all the plants. We think
too early sowing is often practised with this vegetable, the month of
May, in our experience, being soon enough. When well cooked Chou
de Burghley is quite distinct in flavour from the ordinary Cabbage.
We have found it both hardy and good in the spring.

Early Forced Elly of the Valley (A. II. E.') — In order to have
Lily of the Valley in flower by the middle of November forcing should
commence fully three weeks before the spikes are wanted. If the
crowns will not start within a fortnight of being introduced into a
strong heat it is very doubtful if they will grow at all. Well prepared
home-grown crowns are fully equal to the best imported, but as a rule
are not sufficiently matured to force so early as desirable in your case,
and you ought to procure some of the earliest Berlin crowns imported,
or say directly some of the wholesale importers get them. If you have
a propagating frame oyer a tank of hot water that is the place to force
Lily of the Valley. Do not pot the crowns, but merely place them
thickly in cocoa-nut fibre refuse. The latter should be kept constantly
moist, and the frame closed and darkened by mats. A strong heat, or
say about 90°, will be needed, and you will have to be content with com¬
paratively small spikes with weak stems and no leaves.

Elmewashlngr Vinery Wall (F. J."). — A limewashed wall is more
favourable on the score of light and more pleasing to a cultivator’s
eye than a dingy cemented one ; the first indicates cleanliness, and the
latter dirt — disease germ infestation. The wood, iron, and trellis work
should be thoroughly cleansed with softsoap, hot water, and a brush,
and the glass with c'ean water. The walla also may be washed with hot
water, and when dry dressed with a solution of sulphide of potassium,

1 oz. to a gallon of water, using a rather stiff clean painter’s brush.
The sulphide of potassium may be procured of any chemist. It is
commonly known as lime of sulphur.

Bone i\.sh as a ItCanure (./. S'). — Bone ash is a phosphatic
manure, supplying the soil with phosphates and about 1 per cent, of
alkaline salts. It contains no nitrogen, the element forming it being
lost in the burning. The manure may be used for all garden crops,
including flowers, fruits, and vegetables, at the rate of 2 to 4 ozs. per
square yard. It is a permanent manure — that is, it lasts longer than the
year in which it is supplied, and is more calculated to promote a sturdy
floriferous or fruitful habit and a fibrous root formation than free
growth ; but this can be induced by supplying nitrates of potash or soda,
or sulphate of ammonia when the plants or trees are starting into growth,
about one-fourth of one of these substances being sufficient to mix with
the bone ash for plants in pots, also for Vines, Boses, or vegetables. Alone
it should only be given at intervals during the growth of plants and crops.

Besting: Esella anceps (A. E.'). — This is one of the most service¬
able and attractive Orchids for flowering during midwinter, and we
presume yours are now in flower. It will not hurt the plants, and the
flowers wdll last the best part of a month if they are placed in a cool
house, provided this is kept dry and just enough heat maintained in the
hot-water pipes to insure a gentle circulation of air. After flow^ering
return the plants to the house in which they were grown, an ordinary
stove temperature, or such as suits Cattleyas when at rest, answering
well. Keep the soil only just moist, enough water being given to
prevent shrivelling, and not sufficient to excite growth. March will be
quite soon enough to start them afresh, what repotting or top-dressing
there may be needed being done then. Keep Coelogyne cristata in the
house in which the plants formed and matured their growth. The
flower sheaths ought to be already showing at the base of each strong
young pseudo-bulb, but should not open for another month or rather
longer. If freely wa ered now many of the flower spikes would damp off,
and only enough water shou Id be given to prevent the soil becoming dust dry.

Preventing Cucumber Root Disease (^Reader'). — The grower
referred to does not use horse or any animal manure with the soil when
it is of a fibrous nature, and only about one-fifth of fresh horse
droppings when it is ordinary loam and not containing a large per¬
centage of the remains of previous dressings of manure. It is quite
possible to grow as large a crop and of as good quality in Cucumbers by
the use of artificial manures alone as by mixing farmyard manure with
the soil. The soil, h iwever, must contain a fair amount of humus, and
be of an open nature so a* to encourage a free root action. Kainit is an
excellent dressing for land liable to produce some kinds of club in the
plants grown upon it. It may be applied at tbs rate of 2 lbs. per rod,
or if you want to mix it with the soil, 2 ozs. is sufficient for an ordinary
barrowload of soil with farmyard manure added, and double the
amount may be used without the farmyard manure, but an excessive
use of kainit is liable to sterilise the soil, therefore it must be used in
moderation. The following is a good chemical manure for Cucumbers :
three parts bone superphosphate, two parts powdered saltpetre, and
one part ground gypsum, mixed. Keep it dry, and apply 2 to 4 ozs. per
square yard at fortnightly intervals as a top-dressing, and wash in.

Diseased Carnation Plants (A«. Old Subscriber'). — The plant
with roots (No. 1) is infested with a fungus (Helminthosporium or
Heterosporium echinulatum). It was first described in England on
Carnations twenty-three years ago by the late Bev. M. J. Berkeley. It
was introduced into this country from the continent, and in America it
is considered a recent importation from Europe. The flocci (mycelial
threads) are irregular, simple or slightly branched, bearing here and
there multiseptate spores ; these are brown in colour, and when pro¬
duced in abundance, together with the threads, darken the spot upon
the leaf. The spot then possesses different shades of colour, according
to the number of spores produced. The growth of the fungus from the
centre of the spot is centrifugal, and the dark colour is frequently
arranged in concentric rings, of which your plant affords excellent
specimens. You may dip the plants affected in or syringe them with a
solution of sulphide of potassium, half an ounce to a gallon of water,
and repeat at intervals of a fortnight to three weeks. The other plant
(No. 2) is attacked by the Carnation rust fungus (Uromyces caryo-
phillinus), the presence of which is indicated by a slight swelling on the
leaf or stem, one-eighth to a quarter of an inch long, and in some cases
nearly as broad. The surface of the swelling soon becomes pale or
nearly colourless, since the green colouring matter at that point is
destroyed by the growth of the fungus, and is obscured by the crowded
fruiting threads (mycelium) and young spores of the fungus. As the
fungus matures these spores become brownish in colour, are roundish-
oval in shape, and so close together as to impart a dark browm colour to
the colony or sorus (fructification part). The epidermis (skin) of the
leaf or stem is ruptured by the growth of the fungus within the tissues
and turned on one side, where it usually clings as a whitish ragged
looking film by the side of the now exposed mass of spores. The rust
fungus attacks the Carnation at all stages of its growth, not sparing the
young cuttings, but they were probably infested before insertion through
being taken from a rusted plant, which, as regards the cuttings, showed
no trace externally of the threads within the tissues. The treatment

December 21, 189?. ]i!

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

567

most approved by growers is to destroy all affected plants, remove the
soil, and disinfect the surroundings — that is, thoroughly cleanse the
house. This means the loss of valuable seedlings, and as yours is one
we recommend your quarantining it and all infested plants, spraying
them at intervals of ten days to a fortnight with Bordeaux mixture,
made as follows 4 ozs, of sulphate of copper dissolved in a vessel by
itself in 2 gallons of water, 4 ozs. quicklime (light lumps) slaked in
another vessel, and formed into a thin whitewash by adding water.
When cool pour the whitewash into the mixture containing the sulphate
of copper solution slowly through a hair sieve, stir, and add enough
water to make gallons, stirring well. The mixture must be used at
once, it being preferable to lay the plants on their sides on a floor,
spraying them so as to wet every part of them. This can be done easily
by turning them, and taking care to only coat the parts with the finest
possible film of the mixture. The house may be sprayed, wetting every
part, and any spores lurking about will be destroyed directly they push
their germinal tubes, whilst the coat on the plants will render them
invulnerable to any spores alighting on them. The mixture must not
be kept overtwenty*four hours, therefore take such proportionate part of
the ingredients each time as is needed forsprayingthe plants. Illustrations
of the above-mentioned diseases attacking Carnations, with descriptive
notes, were published in the Journal of Ilovticthlture for July 13th, 1893.

Celery Decaying- (^Constant Reader'). — In most gardens a few
“sticks'* of Celery are found with completely decayed hearts when
lifted ; but your experience is a more serious one, five bad “ sticks ” out
of every six being an extraordinary loss. Unfortunately, it is very
doubtful if we can suggest either the actual cause or the remedy. It
is not merely Celery grown in trenches that is liable to behave in this
way, but the same thing occurs in America, where the bulk of Celery
grown is planted on the level. Nor has the past hot summer anything
to do with it, as, according to your letter, the losses have been quite as
heavy in previous years. American authorities state that it is the most
rapidly destructive disease that aff cts Celery, and add that it has not
yet been fully investigated and classified. It is most probably some
form of bacterial disease, the germs being powerless against fully
matured outer stalks, but are quickly at work when washed down into
the heart. Anything that is to operate against the disease germs must
also find its way down to the hearts, though if the leaves were very
lightly sprayed with the Bordeaux mixture the amount that would
reach the eatable portion of Celery would be infinitessimal and quite
harmless. One recipe for mixing and applying this remedy is as
follows ; Dissolve 2 lbs. of powdered sulphate of copper in 4 gallons of
hot water, adding another 4 gallons of cold water. Slake 1 lb. of
caustic lime, then diluteiit to the thickness of milk in 2 gallons of
water. When the copper solution is quite cold add the limewash, and
w’ell mix all together by repeated stirring. It should be sprayed very
lightly over the rows of Celery within twenty-four hours of mixing,
and must be kept constantly stirred while being used. An earthenware
or wooden vessel should be always used. Dry weather should be selected
for the spraying, and there ought to be not less than three applications
during the summer months. It is somewhat strange that you should
have lost so much Celery every year lately, and in all probability the
severe attacks are due to neglect in 'ourying deeply or mixing the
decayed Celery with quicklime. None should be left lying about, and
the site chosen for the Celery trenches next season ought to be well
away from where this crop has been grown of late.

Names of Fruits. — Notice. — We have pleasure in naming good
typical fruits (when the names are discoverable) for the convenience of
regular subscribers, who are the growers of such fruit, and not col¬
lectors of specimens from non-subscribers. This latter procedure is
wholly irregular, and we trust that none of our readers will allow
themselves to be made the mediums in infringing our rules. Special
attention is directed to the following decision, the object of which is
to discourage the growth of inferior and promote the culture of superior
varieties. In consequence of the large number of worthless Ajoples and
Pears sent to this office to be named, it has been decided to name only
specimens and varieties of approved merit, and to reject the inferior,
which are not worth sending or growing. The names and addresses of
senders of fruit to be named must in all cases be enclosed with the
specimens, whether letters referring to the fruit are sent by post or
not. The names are not necessarily required for publication, initials
sufficing for that. Only six specimens can be named at once, and any
beyond that number cannot be preserved. They should be sent on the
first indication of change towards ripening. Dessert Pears cannot be
named in a hard green state. (^Devon). — 1, Dumelow’s Seedling ;
2, Blenheim Pippin ; 3, Not known. (Knebba). — 1, Not known, no
flavour ; 2, Swan’s Egg ; 3, Hunthouse; 4, Orange Goff. (/. E. Kelly).
— 1, Adams’ Pearmain;'2, Kerry Pippin; 3, Margil ; 4, Winter Haw-
thcrnden ; 5, Knight’s Monarch. 6, Bound Winter Nonesuch.

Names of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
(J. J. S.). — 1, Libonia floribunda ; 2, L. penrhosiensis. (ST. 31.). —
Echeveria retusa. (f. P.). — Adiantum formosum. (i. R.). — 1,
Ardisia crenulata ; 2, A. mamillata. (^Amateur). — Cy penis alternifolius,
(//. M.). — Cypripedium insigne Maulei. (^Orchid). — A good form of
Laelia anceps. (f7. II. D.). — Diefienbachia Bausei.

OOVENT GARDEN MARKET. — December 20th.
FRUIT.

Trade slightly brisker for Christmas.

8.

d.

8.

d.

d.

s.

d

Apples, per bushel , , . .

2

6

to 9

0

Peaches, per doz .

0

0 to

0

0

Cobs .

40

0

42

6

Plums, per half sieve , .

0

0

0

0

Grapes per lb .

0

6

2

0

St. Michael Pines, each . .

2

0

G

0

Lemons, case .

10

0

15

0

VEGETABLES.

B.

d.

s.

d.

B.

d.

s.

d.

Beans, Kidney, per lb.

0

3

to 0

4

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2 to

0

0

Beet, Red, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Onions, bunch .

0

3

0

0

Carrots, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

2

0

3

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . . , .

2

0

3

0

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

6

Celery, bundle .

1

0

1

3

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

4

6

Ooleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Salsafy, bundle .

1

0

1

5

Cucumbers, dozen . . . ,

3

0

7

0

Scorzonera, bundle . . . .

1

6

0

u

Endive, dozen .

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb .

0

3

d

0

Herbs, bunch .

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel .

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch .

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

7

Lettuce, dozen .

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

8

Mushrooms, punnet . . . .

0

9

1

0

AVERAGE V7HOLBSALE PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.

Orchid Blooms in variety . Chrysanthemum blooms very plentiful this season, hence
the price is very low.

s.

d.

s.

d

8.

d.

s.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms ..

4

0 to

6

0

Narciss, White (French),

Azalea, dozen sprays . . . .

1

0

1

6

dozen bunches .

2

0 to

3

0

Bouvardias, bunch .. ..

0

6

1

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

0

12

0

Camellias, dozen blooms . ,

1

0

3

0

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

12

0

Carnations, 12 blooms

1

6

3

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

Chrysanthemums, dozen

bunches .

4

0

6

0

bunches .

2

0

6

0

Primula (double), dozen

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis.

0

6

2

0

sprays .

0

6

1

0

Eucharis, dozen .

4

0

6

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

Roses (indoor), dozen . ,

0

6

1

6

Hyacintji, Roman, dozen

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

0

sprays .

0

6

1

0

„ Yellow, dozen .. ..

0

4

0

Lilac (French') per bunch

3

6

6

0

Roses, Safrano (French),

Lilies of the Valley, dozen

per dozen .

0

9

1

6

sprays .

2

0

4

0

Roses, Safrano (French),

Lilium longiflorum, per

per 100 .

1

6

3

0

dozen .

6

0

9

0

Tuberoses. 12 blooms. . . .

0

4

0

6

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

Violets, Parme (French),

bunches .

4

0

6

0

per bunch .

3

0

5

0

Marguerites, 12 bunches . .

2

0

4

0

Violets, Czar (French), per

Mignonette. 12 bunches ..

3

0

6

0

bunch .

2

0

3

0

Narciss, Yellow (French),

Violets (English), dozen

dozen bunches .

2

_0

4

0

bunches .

1

6

2

0

PLANTS

IN POTS,

8.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

Arbor Vitae (golden) dozen

6

Oto 12

0

Foliage plants, var., each. .

2

0 to 10

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Hyacinth, Roman, dozen

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

pots .

12

0

18

0

Chrysanthemums, per doz.

4

0

9

0

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen

12

0

24

0

„ large plants, each

1

0

2

0

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

3

0

4

0

Dractena terminalis, per

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . .

6

0

12

0

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Mignonette, per doz .

6

0

9

0

Dracaena viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Ericas, per dozen . . . .

9

0

18

0

Palms, in var.. each .. ..

1

0

15

0

Euonvmus.var., dozen ..

6

0

18

0

„ (specimens) .. ..

21

0

63

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

6

0

9

0

Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

4

0

18

0

Poinsettia, per dozen . . . .

12

0

15

0

Ferns (small', per hundred

4

0

6

0

Solanums, per dozen.. ..

9

0

12

0

Ficus elastica, each .. ..

1

0

7

6

How to feed to profit is a matter concerning which some
of the best stock breeders are at variance, sides being taken
for and against extreme early maturity. Some there are who
would limit the age to three years. Their views had powerful
support at the annual meeting of the Smithfield Club by Mr.
J. D. Fletcher, who had at the Cattle Show tangible proof of
their importance in his first prize Shorthorn heifer, weighing
16 cwt. 3 qrs. 24 lbs. at the age of two years nine months, and
his champion polled Aberdeen- Angus heifer. Pride of the
Highlands, two years eleven months old, weighing 17 cwt. 2 qrs.
Other graziers advocate an extension of the term of maturity
to four years on the score of economy of feeding. It is
altogether a question of profit and loss, and that is the test
to apply to it. Extravagant feeding for the mere winning of
a prize will not bear such a test, nor will much stall feeding,
if profit has to be looked for in the manure, as it often has
been. But if straw used for litter is to be regarded as an
equivalent for the manure, then the margin of profit is often
a very narrow one indeed. In proof of this we quote from a
pamphlet on “The Early Maturity of Live Stock,” published

568

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 21, 1893.

some sii years ago by the Field, a complete record of the
dietary of a beast sold as prime beef at seventy-one weeks
old

£ s. d.

Purchase of acalf ,, .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..2 00

Four weeks’ new milk, 6 quarts daily, at 2d. per quart . 1 8 0

Eight weeks’ skimmed milk, 6 quarts daily, at ^d. per quart, and 2 lbs. meal,

at IJd. per lb. . 1 5 8

Seventeen weeks in June, July, August, and September on a daily diet of 2 lbs.

linseed cake, 2 lbs. beanmeal. Mangold, hay, grass. Clover, &c . 3 19 4

Twenty-six weeks to end of March, 5 lbs. cake and meal daily, | bushel of

roots, hay. and straw for fodder . 6 16 6

Sixteen weeks to harvest 8 lbs. cake and meal daily, Mangold, grass, Clover ;

total. 7s. 2|d. a week . 5 15 8

Attendance, seventy-one weeks at 6d . 1 15 6

Insurance, interest, and rent of shed . 1 50

£24 5 8

Dr. £ s. d.

A bullock, seventy-one weeks old 24 5 8

Profit . 4 8 4

Cr. £ s. d.

A bullock sold at seventy-one

weeks old . . . . 24 17 0

Value of manure . 3 17 0

£28 14 0

£28 14 0

The value of the manure was estimated at 20 per cent, on
the cost of the food (£19 5s. 2d.), but, taken as the straw
equivalent, we have then only a profit of 11s. 4d. remaining.

The dietary is instructive as showing amounts and the
progressive scale of feeding a young beast calved in spring
and sold at harvest in the following year. In the dietary
something might be gained by the substitution of corn for
cake, both to avoid cake bills and to utilise home-grown pro¬
duce, in the guise of a mixture of crushed Oats, Wheat, Barley,
Beans, Peas— all or any of them, it matters not — for it has
been proved by the Woburn experiments of the Royal Agri¬
cultural Society that bullocks thrive equally well upon corn
or cake ; and we are disposed to favour the corn on the score
of economy, and also because a mixed dietary is always the
most wholesome.

On the other hand, it is worth while considering if we
cannot do better where rich pasture is available by finishing
beasts either at two or three years on the grass, avoiding
stall feeding altogether. In doing this the calves would only
be let run out in favourable weather ; all exposure to gad
flies, cold, or wet would be avoided. Crushed corn would be
given in pans on pasture if required ; they would be pushed
steadily on during the winter, and if intended for market by the
second autumn they would have some corn all the summer.
If kept over a second winter they could be so cared for as
to go on pasture in the following spring in such fresh
condition that they would come out fat by September or
October.

The treatment of such beasts must always be tentative and
not by line and rule. When kept till the third autumn corn
would be used during the winter, but it would hardly be required
at all with a full bite of rich grass in the spring and summer.
The fattening property of the best grasses and Clover is simply
marvellous ; be it our care to see that the young stock leaves the
yards for it in spring in such fleshy condition that the grazing
tells quickly, and the beasts are kept going steadily on to early
ripeness and fair profit. Very different this to the progress of
those wretched starvelings, leaving the yards at turn-out time,
with every rib so clearly defined with hollows between them,
that one might suppose the idea of ridge-and-furrow roofing was
suggested by them. Nothing can be more deplorable than
their miserable plight, and it is difl&cult to see how any reason¬
able person can expect anything like profit from them. By all
means pay heedful regard to economy, but see that it is an
embodiment of judicious expenditure with avoidance of waste.
Spend freely when it can be done to good purpose, and remember
that waste avoidance includes the wise prevention of loss of
condition in our stock during winter.

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

The pickling and smoking of bacon and ham are now being done as
the pigs fed specially for the purpose become ready. We intend writing
a special article on this important part of home farm economy shortly,
and only mention the matter now as a reminder to home farmers that
their method of bacon curing is for a supply from, say, New Year’s Day
till Christmas at the least, and the process must be altogether more
deliberate and thorough than that of the bacon factory men, who

accomplish in a few days for what the home farmer requires two months.
Their bacon is intended for speedy consumption and not for long storage ;
it is, therefore, obviously unwise to introduce their meth^ at the
home farm.

Fatten and sell all sows becoming old or of large size ; the only
exception we ever make is with sows that are exceptionally gentle and
quiet. But no sow should be kept for breeding after she becomes large,
or rather approaches a size which involves risk of her lying upon her
progeny. It is also evident that very large breeding sows must consume
much more food than those of moderate size. It is at her second litter
or farrow that a sow is at her best ; this is our guide to breeding early,
and the first farrowing should be when the sow is ten months old, the
period of gestation being sixteen weeks. Bear this in mind in your
scheme for the coming year, so as to have an ample store of porkers
ready for corn stubbles ; and when a young sow proves to be a bad
mother, biting or eating her young, she must be fattened and sold.
Temper in the sow often arises from soreness of teats, for which reason,
and by way of prevention, the four sharp temporary teeth which yourg
pigs have are broken off at birth by many breeders.

In any case we have always found it answer to have a few extra
sows to make certain a full supply of pork and bacon for home require¬
ments. Superfluous pigs of any age or size always find a ready market,
fatten quickly, and are soon out of hand. Place sows about to farrow
in comfortable quarters — a commodious sty with a frame round the
sides to protect the young pigs when the sows lie down. Use only a
moderate amount of short litter, shut in sow and pigs in very cold
weather — it is then that a passage at the back of the sty is so useful.
Do not wait for the weaning before feeding the pigs, but as soon as
they are able to eat raise the slip board along one side of the sty, so
that the pigs can get out to a low trough placed near it outside. Barley-
meal, ground oats, or wheatmeal, with milk, answers well for them.

Spratts’ Almanac. — Spratts Patent, Limited, send us a copy of
their Almanac for 1894. It contains an illustrated sheet, with calendar
for each month, with notes explanatory of the subjects illustrated. It
will be acceptable to fanciers of dogs, poultry, and domestic pets. It is
supplied to customers who apply soon enough and enclose a stamp for
postage to Henry Street, Bermondsey, London.

Live Stock Handbooks — Messrs. Vinton & Co., London, pro¬
prietors of the well-known “ Handbooks of the Farm,” have, in response
to numerous applications, commenced the publication of a new series,
entitled “Live Stock Handbooks.” The first volume is devoted to
sheep, and has been written by Professor Wrightson. There are twenty-
four full-page engravings, and the price is 39. 6d. This will be followed
by handbooks on light and heavy horses, cattle, pigs, and other animals.

“Live Stock Journal” Almanac for 1894. — Once more is the
high standard of this useful annual well maintained. Each leading
class of horse, cattle, and sheep has its special article recording its
progress for the year, and so possessing an historical as well as a
practical value. Pigs and poultry also have attention, besides which
there are interesting and valuable contributions on Horse Breeding,
Horse Shoeing, Influence of Food on Milk, Feeding Live Stock, Milk
Records, Wool and its Preparation, Bacon Curing, Management of Pigs,
and the Fattening of Poultry. This brief notice will suffice to show
what a useful publication it is, useful alike for reference and for its
special information upon matters of interest to everyone connected
with agriculture. The work is illustrated and published by Messrs.
Vinton & Co., London, 9, New Bridge Street, Ludgate Circus, E.C.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamden Square, London.

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

Date.

9 A.M.

In THE Day.

Bain.

1

1893.

December.

1 Barometer

at 32", and

1 Sea Level.

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of
Wind.

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Inchs.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

Inchs.

Sunday . . 10

2H-605

39-7

38-8

S.E.

40-5

47-7

30-7

491

27-7

0 094

Monday .. 11

29-426

47-1

45-2

S.W.

40-2

47-8

38-9

57-4

33-0

0-02S

Tuesday .. 12

29-555

46-4

43-9

S.

40-0

53-3

33-2

54-2

28 1

0-346

Wednesday 13

29-176

53-4

52-6

s.

41-1

57-8

41-9

68-9

36-1

0-426

Thursday . . 14

29-723

39-1

36-9

N.

43-1

43-3

38-4

65-6

35-6

_

Friday .. 15

30-416

40-9

38-1

S.W.

410

50-7

31-1

58-9

27-9

_

Saturday . . 16

30-532

48-1

46-6

s.

42-0

51-6

40-7

62-0

37-8

—

29 762

450

43 2

41-1

50-3

36-3

59-4

32-3

0 892

REMARKS.

10th. — Overcast till noon ; very squally, with heavy rain from 0.30 to 1.30 P.M., and at
times in afternoon ; fair again in evening.

11th. — Rain at 5 A.M., and overcast early; sunny from 11 A.M. to I P.M. ; fair after¬
noon and bright night.

12th. — Squally southerly gales. Occasional gleams of sun in morning; heavy rain
from 1.45 P.M. to 4.30 P.M. Gale very severe from 4.30 to 5.30 P.M., and
dropped suddenly at 6.30 P.M.

13th. — Overcast, with squalls and showers till 10.30 A.M. ; fine and generally sunny from
11 A.M. to sunset ; heavy shower at 7.30 P.M., and heavy rain from 11 P.M. to
2.30 A.M. on the 14th.

14th. — Heavy rain till 2.30 *.M.; overcast till about 10 A.M.; bright sun from 11 to
sunset, and bright night.

15th. — Fine, with a good deal of bright sunshine in morning; generally cloudy in
afternoon. 16th.— Fine, and generally sunny.

Milder, southerly winds and gales, low barometer, nd rain. — G. J. SYMONS.

December 28, 1893. J

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

669

PROBABLY there are few men except the ultra self-conceited
who will not admit the existence of certain shortcomings in
their year’s record. Those who have apparently done the best,
and, in fact, accomplished much on which they may dwell with
satisfaction, will be the first to acknowledge that on certain points
their judgment may have led them somewhat astray. Those are
really the strong men of the day. Strong, because of their clear
perceptions, and not shrinking from the recognition of facts, even
when these were not in harmony with their prepossessions. Men
who, in their own view, are ever in the right on every conceivable
topic, who can see nothing wrong in what they say or do, and little
that is good and true in others, unconsciously, yet very clearly,
exhibit their own frailties.

I« not the present a good time for each to try and determine in
which category he is rightly placed ? The conduct of masters to
servants and servants to masters, of parents to children and children
to parents — has it all been right ? all as it should be, and as each
may wish it to be again ? In rivalry has all been honourable, in
controversy has all been fair, in government — the superintendence
of man over man — has all been just, in duty have all been diligent,
in trust have all been faithful ? We know, all know, there have
been sad, even fatal, departures from the line of right in cases that
have been “ found out.” But what of the shortcomings yet more
or less obscure ? Let them be sought out, thought over, recognised
and diagnosed. No one can be the worse for this self-searching,
and it may reveal what was not apparent, leading to a better line
of thought, and a safer course to follow.

Has all been right in gardens, or as nearly as it might have
been ? Has there been undue austerity by those who direct or
provocation by those who serve? Gardening is credited with
having a soothing influence, yet it is not a panacea for wrong, not to
say hot-headedness ; it is also credited with the love that begets
watchfulness and devotion to it as a pursuit, yet it is not a complete
antidote to carelessness, laxity, even laziness. On these matters it
will, perhaps, not be quite treasonable to suggest that blustering
managers in gardens are, like weeds in flower beds, oat of place ;
and equally so are the listless slippery lookers-for-night, who
cannot hope to prosper in the calling into which they have
pushed themselves or been pushed by their friends.

Ifor does the mere possession of gardens by persons, no matter
how wealthy, make all of them gentle and kind. There are
gardens which could be named in which men are tormented and
the right name for their houses is jails. There they aie chained,
for only men with large families are sought for, and who cannot,
dare not, move and face what might be penury or destitution.
Happily such examples of intolerance are few — chance weeds in
the garden of humanity, making the flowers of the flock, the
great mass of our nobility and gentry, “ the country’s pride,”
shine the brighter by the contrast. Which are served the better,
those who repel by their severe exactions, or those who attach
by just yet considerate ways ? There is only one answer.
Faithful service follows dutiful attachment. Of this we have
thousands of pleasant examples over the length and breadth
of the land, the exceptions being a miserable minority, soon
it is hoped to become obsolete and forgottten.

Then are there not shortcomings in the literary aspect of

No. 705.— Voii. XXVII., Third Skbiks.

gardening — pens as if made to wound in controversy rather than
elucidate and instruct ? There appears to be a good deal of
character in pens, and the makers might give them new names,
to wit the “ stinger,” to make opponents wince ; the “ cynic ” to
tantalise ; the “snarler ” (o demean ; the “grumbler ” to despise ;
the “dullard” to drive away readers, and so on. It is true some
of them have a recoil, and it is as well so, perhaps better, or
the wrong men might get hurt the most. Even pens it will be
seen, and as some of their victims have felt, are not all they
ought to be, but have their shortcomings, needing rectification.
The one now in use is apt to be refractory, and can only be
exercised under a sharp rein, but it seemed to want a run
before the year was out, and is having its way for once, to end
possibly in the ditch known as the W. P. B.

Occasionally the attentive reader may fancy he detects short¬
comings in the logic of literature — lines of reasoning that puzzle
him somewhat, yet which he enjoys all the same. Sometimes it
would seem the best of pens are prone to be “ erratic,” and surely the
“ D., Deal," is one of the very best, yet what does it make the good
man say on page 552 ? “ Tulips entail too much trouble ” to

become popular. They need planting in November and taking up
in J une. No other troubles are mentioned ; but what “ picking,
smoking, sheltering, and brushing” are advised for Auriculas ? What
trouble the fungus is on Carnations, and the attendant doctoring,
potting, and finger-and-thumbing ? While as for Gladioli, the
instructions read almost like a wail of despair. Yet these flowers
must be grown ; the hardy Tulips are not even honoured with a
malady, they only entail “ too much trouble.” Oh, that pen ! — and
this! Into its sheath then mine shall go (but oh, not his!)
perhaps, for a final rest ; all depends on the fate of this its
maiden effort ; if its shortcomings are so flagrant as to meet con¬
demnation the end will have come. The attempt — well meant —
to have a tilt at the seamy side of human nature will have failed,
and nothing will be left for its incompetent guide but to retire
into silence. — Watchman.

AN EAST LOTHIAN GARDEN IN 1893.

The year that is closing has been so exceptionally good from
a gardening point of view, that before it is gone it may be worth
while to chronicle some of its outstanding features. And yet,
good as it has been, there have been certain times during its course
when much uneasiness was felt. At its beginning the frost was
very intense and trying, the times of drought in the summer, and
also the gales towards the end. Exceptions to the rule, therefore,
occurred, and all kinds of garden crops have not flourished equally
well. Fruit and flowers fared best, much better than usual ; but
vegetables on the whole have not been so good.

The severity of the frosts early in the year destroyed many
vegetables. Hardly anything in our garden was left save Leeks
and Brussels Sprouts. Spinach was severely checked, but it grew
well with the advent of warm weather. All kinds of Broccoli suc¬
cumbed. If there was one kind hardier than another it appeared
to be Methven’s June, but that also was so much damaged as to be
not worth retaining. Even the hardy and profitable Sprouting
Broccoli was killed to the ground, so were the Curled Kales, and
the Globe Artichokes were badly damaged. Later in the year the
second crop of Cauliflowers was entirely destroyed by root maggots,
and indeed all round this district the mischief worked on Cabbages
and Cauliflowers by these was very great. Many cottagers had
their green crops destroyed. However, later sowings of Cauliflowers
were all that could be desired. King of the Cauliflowers and
Magnum Bonum were particularly good. I saw beautiful speci¬
mens of a late variety twelve months ago named Drummond’s
Favourite. This I tried, and have found it to be an excellent
kind ; but so far as I can determine it is identical with Veitch’s
Autumn Self-protecting Broccoli. However that may be, both are

No. 2361 — VoL. LXXXIX, Old Series.

579

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 23, 1893.

superior straia?, and for cutting late in the year they are indis¬
pensable.

Spinach did moderately well up to the sowing made about
end of August, of which most of the plants died out of the ground,
so that we are depending for a winter supply on two earlier sowings.
I have for many years past raised three distinct crops of winter
Spinach, as it is not uncommon for that sown at the time which is
suitable in general to fail as it has done this year. Paresseuse de
Catillon is a French variety, which did well during the severe
drought. It is also good for winter sowing, and so is Lent, a
slow seeding variety. Peas proved generally unsatisfactory. The
late crop was past earlier than ever I recollect it to have been.
Mr. Eckford sent me a selection of his seedlings to try. Of these
I was greatly pleased with Fame, which appears to be an improved
Ne Plus Ultra. Epicure and Censor I also liked, but none of the
sorts impressed me so much as the first named, of which I hope to
grow many in the coming season. Regarding Potatoes, all that
need be said is that they were of excellent quality, but small of tuber.
Brussels Sprouts are very good. Spring-sown Onions were maggot-
eaten almost to the whole crop, and we have had to depend up till
now on bulbs of January-raised Cranston’s Excelsior, an Onion
which is a good keeper as well as being large in size.

A noteworthy feature of the year is the manner in which lost
time has been made up by autumn and winter crops. Seeds sown
during the drought germinated rather badly, and in consequence
many crops had to be sown again, making the plants much later in
being set out than usual. Broccolis, the seeds of which germinated
well, were long in making growth, and also seemed likely to be
but of small size. But in every case plants have made an almost
abnormal growth, the result being that there has been an abundance
of succulent produce and a promise of plenty to follow. London
Coleworts happened to be a “ miss at first,” but I never remember
later ones of these to have been finer in quality, and still there are
many of green heads to use.

Despite an unpromising spring, the hardy fruit crops were
above the average in bulk, and in quality they were generally
superior. The two crops which were the least promising — viz..
Pears and Strawberries, finished good average crops, though they
were both of short duration, the latter ripening all at once, and the
later sorts of the former are ripening abnormally early. Small
fruits were also over earlier than usual. We, as a rule, have
Currants and Gooseberries well into October, but these were all
past in the beginning of September. No doubt the fruit would
have hung much longer, but they were literally cleared off the
bushes in the course of a few days by wasps. I think of all crops
Apricots were the most satisfactory. The trees blossomed abund¬
antly and set an enormous crop, which required to be freely thinned.
The season was much longer than usual, the earlier fruits ripening
in the commencement of August, and the crop continued until the
middle of September. I do not remember Apricots ever to have
ripened so well all the season through. In 1867 and 1868, in 1875,
and again in 1887 Apricots ripened well, but not, as a rule, so
perfectly as during the present year. The largest cropping sort
was the Royal. The earliest fruits were gathered from trees of
Breda and of Kaisha. One of the latest and best was D’Alsace,
a Variety well worthy to be recommended. Shipley’s and Peach
were also good. Hemskerk did not bear a crop. I have this
auturnn added the following kinds — Angoumois Hatif, an early
ripening variety ; Powell’s Late, and La Delicieuse, the latter a
new variety from Syria.

I was also greatly pleased with the Plum crop. The trees
blossomed but sparsely, and on old trees the crop was not large,
in no case requiring to be thinned ; but generally there were
sufficient fruits for the trees to perfect, and all the varieties
ripeiied better than usual. The season began with Rivers’ Early
Prolific and The Czar in July, and ended with Coe’s Golden Drop
in October. The Czar is a grand acquisition, when fully ripe being
very rich in flavour. Kirke’s was also good. I had a grand crop
on a young tree of Cox’s Emperor. Strings of fruit set all over
the tree, and after severe thinning a very large crop remained.
Fruit was gathered off this tree during a period of seven weeks,
and it was appreciated both for dessert and for cooking. Victoria
was, as it always is, grand, and so was Jefferson. Green Gages
were particularly good this year, so also was Magnum Bonum
(white). ^ This is a Plum which is highly esteemed in our case both
for cooking and for dessert, and during several weeks this year we
were able to supply good fruit. A particularly good late Plum
which fruited well this year for the first time is Monarch. The
perfection of Plums is, doubtless, Coe’s Golden Drop when at its
best, as during the past summer, and whoever is without a tree in
hi^s garden ought to make good the deficiency at once. I have
wded, among other sorts, Archduke, a late variety, and Purple

Pears were like Plums, inasmuch as old trees did not bear

well, while on the other hand young trees bore an abundance of
fruit. The first good Pear to ripen was Clapp’s Favourite at the end
of August. Since that time we have had an uninterrupted supply
of better fruit than we have ever had previously, and nearly all
from young trees. As mentioned all varieties have ripened
earlier than usual, and as the season progresses this abnormal
precocity in ripening becomes more pronounced. The best
flavoured Pears we have had during November and December were
Doyenne du Comice, a most delicious sort, the well-known Marie
Louise, Winter Nelis quite six weeks earlier than usual, and now
past, and Knight’s Monarch, which will keep till the beginning of
1894. Beurre Ranee is now ripening, and I notice that Easter
Beurre is also softening, though in most years it is towards the end
of February before these begin to ripen. Nec Plus Meuris,
however, is still hard. I have added a few cordon trees to our
collection, including Alexandre Lambre, Baronne de Mello, the old
Beurre Bose and Beurre Hardy, Nouvel'.e Fulvie, and Marguerite
Manilard.

Apples were a full crop, but they did not set so freely_ as to
require thinning ; at least, very few trees did. The quality of
the fruit in some sorts was, perhaps, as good in 1887, but as a
whole the present was a better Apple year. In 1875 we had a
larger crop, but not equal in quality. Warner’s King, Nelson
Codlin, Tower of Glamis, Ringer, Keswick Codlin, Blenheim
Pippin, Frogmore Prolific, and Dutch Mignonne were exceedingly
fine. As regards the keeping qualities of the fruit I see there is
now scarcely any turning bad. I have had Tower of Glamis,
Nelson’s, and Stirling Castle in as good condition as I ever saw
them. The wood on the trees is beautifully budded, and the
prospect of a heavy crop next year is most promising. Selected
Apples brought a high price, and that at a time when inferior fruit
was all but unsaleable. Perhaps the most abnormal feature of
the year was the behaviour of an old Fig tree, which, not satisfied
with presenting us with some splendid fruit at the usual period,
yielded a second crop in October. The fruit was very small,
but of good flavour. A second crop of Figs is, so far as I am
aware, a very uncommon occurrence in Scotland.

I transplanted a large number of trees during the autumn, these
mainly Plums and Apples. The roots, as a whole, were in prime
condition, and taking these as a standard I conclude that the
growth of roots in the soil has been as favourable as the growth of
the wood. — B.

(To be continued.)

NOTES ABOUT PAESLEY.

The brilliant emerald green of the Parsley, so pleasing at this
season and so good to have in abundance, emboldens me to add a
little to a subject which may appear to have been already thrashed
out in the Journal of Horticulture ; but I propose to go a little Way
off the beaten track of good culture, where even breakdowns will
occur, to say something about no culture at all, viz., to have it as a
weed, and it is probably better to have it that way than to not
at all.

The way it will grow as a weed (for when out of its place it
comes under that definition) is, I think, noticeable more or less in
all gardens, until the conscientious “scuffer” cuts short the career of
these stray plants, though one may escape to point a moral with its
sturdy luxuriant foliage. On this I take my text, off the beaten
tracks ; but nothing new, oh ! no ; “ there is nothing new under the
sun,” though a good deal we do not see, and some things we will
not see.

Now for my way ; it is scarcely a plan or a method. Take, say,
2 ozs. of seed of any good curled variety — there seems to me but
little, if any, difference in the kinds — though they be somebody’s
Pride or someone else’s Perfection, all are good ; time, from the
middle to end of June ; position, here, there, and everywhere ;
aspect, north, south, east, and west, close up under the walls in
small nooks and corners where the autumn zephyrs carry the
leaves, in the open, between lines of fruit trees, any place where
there is not room for anything else, and particularly in those spots
you think it will not grow. Take a pointed stick, scratch the face
of mother earth, scratch it deep, she likes it ; drop in a few seeds
sparingly as if they were gold, close in with your feet ; so go on till
your seed packet is empty. Nothing more, only keep off the genius
with the “scuffer,” or his zeal may result in wiping out your labours
as effectively as a fresh hand in a certain garden who was sent to
fork up all the Horsetail (Equisetum), which he did, and a good
bed of Asparagus besides, remarking to his horrified chief, who
arrived too late, “Master, I ha’ dug up all they durned puttock
pipes.”

Granted that such catastrophes are averted, and you feel on
seeing the plants that Art must assist Nature, take equal parts of

December S8, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

671

soot and guano and sprinkle them well with it, letting a “gossoon”
(Anglice, boy) go after you with a watering pot and wash it in, and
when you are laughed at for having too much Parsley grin and
bear it. — E. K.

RASPBERRY JOTTINGS.

There were rumours of phenomenal prices for Raspberries in
the early summer, £35 and £40 a ton being freely talked about, as
though such figures only needed mentioning to be realised ; but
either the returns were not secured, or else those who were lucky
enough to get them have kept their own counsel. It is always wise to
allow a liberal percentage for contingencies when such figures are
quoted, for they are abnormal ; but after making all reasonable
allowances, the snm is not whittled down below a fair and profit¬
able margin. Raspberries have paid many growers very well this
year, much better than Strawberries in some cases ; and indeed
where this fruit does well, it rarely fails to give a good return.

When at Knockholt a short time ago, I met Mr. Waterman, who
was formerly the head of the gardens at Preston Hall, Mr. Brassey’s
beautiful mansion near Maidstone, now ably managed by Mr.
Jarman. Mr. Waterman has gravitated into the trade, having
become the possessor of a compact nursery ; but in addition to this
he grows small fruit for market, chiefly Raspberries and Straw¬
berries. I mention his name in connection with the former, because
he makes an emphatic stand against the general opinion that
“.there’s nothing like Carter’s,” having a variety which, he con¬
tends, is better, while at the same time partaking of the dwarf
character of the great market sort and consequently needing no
stakes. Now if there be in cultivation a Raspberry of the Carter’s
Prolific style of growth which is as good a grower and fruiter,
and which wears better, it ought certainly to be known.

The name of the Raspberry referred to is Dr. Maclean, and
Mr. Waterman tells me he has known it for many years. He has
several acres of it at Knockholt growing side by side with Carter’s
Prolific, and thus a glance suffices to show the similarity in their
styles of growth. They are both dwarf and sturdy, needing no
extraneous support. This season of the year is not the best for
comparing the points of Raspberries, and the most that can be said
about them is that Dr. Maclean is rather cleaner and brighter in
the cane than Carter’s. Such a difference might easily be brought
about in the same variety by varying soil, but the two are growing
on the same ground in this case.

Dr. Maclean is a name that has a familiar “ smack ” about it,
but perhaps this is through the well-known Pea. I have not met
with a Raspberry of that name before, and do not see it in the
“ Fruit Manual.” There is a variety there called McLaren’s
Prolific, and between McLaren and Maclean there is not a great
gulf fixed, but Dr. Hogg describes the former as a “double-bearing
variety, of robust growth, and producing immense second crops on
the young shoots of the same season.” Dr. Maclean is not robust
in the same sense as Superlative and Hornet, nor from what I
gather has it marked double-bearing proclivities, although, like
most other sorts, it has borne a second crop during the past extra¬
ordinary season. I should like to learn more about this Raspberry,
of which Mr. Waterman has a fine stock, and which pays him, he
tells me, very well.

Despite their taller growth, which is against them from the
market grower’s point of view, there is every sign of a large
demand for Superlative and Hornet, the former more particularly.
The young canes of this grand Raspberry were bearing heavily in
Messrs. Veitch’s nursery at Slough in the autumn, but that, of
course, is not a very weighty point. What are chiefiy to be
remarked are its merits as a summer sort. It is of very free and
robust growth, tall enough to require outside support, but a prolific
fruiter and bearing splendid berries. It is rather significant
that, although the market men look askance as a rule at a Rasp¬
berry which is not self-supporting, several of them are anxious to
get Superlative, being convinced of its high merits.

The fact of Hornet doing so well at Chiswick in comparison
with the best sorts should cause attention to be given to it, and it
is not there alone that it has given abundant satisfaction. A
Herefordshire grower, about whom “ J. B. R.” knows more than I
do, finds it the best sort which he has tried, and does well with it
in the market. It is unquestionably immensely prolific, while the
fruit is of large size and splendid colour. It requires support,
growing to a great height in good soil, and this is supplied in the
form of strained wires. Either as a garden or a market variety it
is doubtful if there is a Raspberry which gives finer crops of large
fruit than Hornet. It is pretty safe to prophesy that it will grow
rapidly in popularity as time goes on. At the same time, so far as
my observation goes. Superlative is being asked for much more
frequently by the large growers, but this is perhaps owing to the
fact that Hornet is as yet very little known.

The old Semper Fidelis is, I see, cropping up again. I saw a
very large order executed for it quite recently, the canes going to
a grower who wants the fruit for jam. Unlike most Raspberries
the ever faithful one retains its form in the boiling, and as whole
fruit jams are much more in demand now than the pulpy “ brands ”
it is valuable on that account.

What may be termed the columnar system of growing the taller
Raspberries seems to be very little practised, but when speaking
about it to an Essex market grower on a small scale recently, he
told me that he had always found he got more fruit by shortening
some of the canes in a stool to 18 inches or so, others to 3 feet,
and then merely topping the others, than by the common plan.
Naturally I asked him why, if he had found it good, he did not
practise it now, and the response was, “ Oh ! well, I suppose it is
because I have so many other things to do that I don’t trouble
about it.” This is mild for Essex, and, after all, one cannot blame
a man who is his own labourer for neglecting matters of this kind
in favour of others which must be attended to when he is hard
pressed ; but the system is worth practising by those who are not
in the difficult position of having to make a living out of about
an acre and a half of ground. That any man can achieve such a
result in the face of the fierce competition with growers having
large capital to turn over, strikes me as being greatly to his credit,
and a proof, moreover, of what a hard worker can do who feeds his
ground well and crops it judiciously. — W. P. W.

ENRICHING THE SOIL DURING AUTUMN AND

WINTER.

{Continued f rom page 416.')

When much of the soil of the garden or the field has been
cleared of its exhausting crops, then comes the golden opportunity
of enriching and otherwise preparing it for yielding an abundant
harvest in the coming year. Heavy dressings of manure are of the
utmost importance in maintaining the fertility of the soil by
returning to it those constituents which previous crops have drawn
out ; but of at least equal importance is the time-honoured
practice of deeply stirring it, so that the rain and air may
penetrate, and carry with them those elements of fertility which
are ever present in the atmosphere, and which all may turn to
profitable account, with no greater outlay than that which is
involved in the employment of the labour necessary to carry out
deep culture. It is, therefore, apparent that every inch which is
added to the depth of the soil renders it capable of drawing a
proportionately greater amount of plant food from Nature’s
storehouse. These undoubted facts, to my mind, show con¬
clusively the economy of deep digging, and the unwisdom of
relying on mere surface-scratching.

Few will remember an autumn so fine, dry, and open as the
past one, which has been exceptionally favourable for carrying out
the work of manuring and digging vacant quarters. Should this
satisfactory state of affairs continue for a few weeks longer, better
opportunities will have been present for dealing with land of all
descriptions than we have experienced for some years, during
which time extended frosts have left but short periods for giving
the soil that thorough preparation it ought to receive betoie the
time for sowing and planting arrives.

Heavy soils should be the first to receive attention, as it is only
by throwing them up roughly, so that the sun, air, and frost may
pulverise the lumpy spits, that heavy soils of many descriptions
can be gradually brought into good working order. When once
these adhesive soils become thoroughly ameliorated, they prove
uncommonly productive on account of the power they possess of
retaining moisture and the food of crops. In many instances,
however, it is unwise to attempt to do too much at once. The
top spit ought first to be thoroughly worked before any attempt is
made to deepen it. The earliest opportunity should be taken to
wheel upon such land, whenever it is dry or frosty, a heavy dressing
of partially decayed strawy manure ; that obtained from the
stables is the most suitable for the purpose. This manure may be
left in heaps till digging commences, when it can be spread in
patches as the work goes on ; this will to a great extent prevent the
loss of valuable manurial properties, which quickly escape into the
atmosphere, if the manure is spread upon the land, long before
being buried beneath it.

In digging heavy land, a strong fork, such as they use in the
Kentish Hop gardens, is better than a spade, as the work is less
laborious, and large rough spits can be upturned. The workmen
should, however, be impressed with the absolute necessity of
stirring the soil to the whole depth of the fork when thrust into
the ground in a vertical position. A coating of from 3 to 6 inches
of the manure ought to be placed in the trenches as the work
proceeds. By using this in the rough state above described decay

572

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 28, 1893.

is gradual, and the soil is kept open, so as to receive the full benefit
from the action of winds and frost.

In cases where the soil is of an unusually retentive nature a
commendable practice is to throw it up in sharp ridges about 2 feet
asunder, by so doing a greater surface is exposed to the influence of
the weather. In the spring these ridges should be levelled, and a
coating of burnt refuse, coal ashes, leaf soil, old mortar, or sharp
sand from the roadside be spread upon it and forked in, the fork¬
ing again being repeated before planting. This practice was
persistently followed in a garden in which I was employed some
years ago, with the result that a stubborn clay was converted into
a rich friable loam. Especial care should at all times be taken to
keep off the land when it is in a wet condition. Any soils which
have been thrown up roughly, but not ridged, ought, if possible, be
forked over several times during the spring, and some of the
opening materials above named be well worked in as the work
proceeds.

Lime is also an excellent agent in effecting the better working
of heavy soils, as well as in sweetening those which are over-rich in
vegetable matter. It should be covered with soil till slacked, and
then spread upon the land at the rate of half an hundredweight
per rod, and be properly forked into the surface. When the top
spit has been improved in this way the work of deepening the soil
should begin. This is best accomplished by double digging, by
which means the soil is loosened and enriched to a great depth
without changing the position of that on the surface. Commence
by marking off a width of 2 feet at one end of the quarter to be
operated upon. Take out the soil one spit deep and wheel to the
opposite end, next place a thick layer of rough manure in the
bottom of the trench, and mix it thoroughly with the soil as it is
turned up another spit in depth. Then mark out another 2 feet
strip, and place the top spit of it, as well as the shovellings, on the
top of the subsoil first broken up, mixing manure with it as the
work proceeds. When the end of the quarter is reached, the last
trench can be filled up with the soil previously wheeled back.
Land treated in this way will speedily exhibit a marked improve¬
ment if abundance of rough manure is used, but no half measures
in this direction must be relied upon to ensure satisfactory results.
— H. Dunkin.

(To be continued.)

HARDY FLOWER NOTES.

Lubinia atropurpurea.

Thb lover of hardy flowers has, above all others, most cause to
look with suspicion upon what are called “ reintroductions ” — that
is, plants which have at one time been grown in this country, but
have from various causes been lost to cultivation. This is, of
course, not an invariable rule ; but, as a rule, one may look
with suspicion upon the “ reintroduction ” as having “ either an
old fault or a new one,” the fault in most cases being that the
flower is either not quite hardy or that it is worthless from an
ornamental point of view. Lubinia atropurpurea has been recently
again offered to the flower-loving public, and I fear the experience
of those who are induced to purchase will not be such as to render
them enthusiastic in its praises. I have had the opportunity of
thoroughly examining the Lubinia, and I fear I cannot speak so
favourably of it as I should willingly do. It comes under the list
of those which possess the two great faults of the reintroductions
being neither very hardy nor very ornamental.

L. atropurpurea, which belongs to the natural order Primulaceae,
was introduced from the Cape of Good Hope so far back as 1820,
and a pretty full account of it will be found in Maund’s “ Botanic
Garden,” vol. iii., page 52. Maund, while speaking generally in
high terms of the Lubinia, admits its sombre appearance unless
when the sun shines upon it, and goes on to speak of the beauty of
the Lubinia as seen through a microscope, the petals and filaments
being gemmed with minute Pear-like substances which, when viewed
through a more powerful instrument, are seen to be glands “ each a
little gland on a cylindrical pedestal.” As the specific name would
lead us to infer, the flowers are of an intense dark purple. The
plants grow about 2 feet in height, and may be increased by division
or seeds. The latter do not appear to germinate well, and some
protection in winter will be found advisable for plants left in the
open ground.

Stokesia cyanea.

It is seldom that this fine composite is seen in gardens, due no
doubt to its late flowering habit and its doubtful hardiness north of
London. I should, possibly, not have mentioned it now had it not
been that some time ago I saw in a greenhouse a plant of it just
coming into flower, and which was intended to be cut for
exhibition in a stand of hardy herbaceous flowers. I cannot say

that I approve of this system of growing hardy flowers for exhibi¬
tion, but there the plant was, and I am doubtful, if the way
schedules are generally worded, a judge would be justified in
excluding a stand in which the Stokesia appeared. At all events
the few flowers which were open showed how beautiful they
would be with their brilliant blue Cornflower-like heads.

September is its nominal time of flowering, but we cannot get
it in bloom until much later, unless by growing it under glass in
spring, and planting out then, lifting in the autumn, and flowering
under glass. I do not care for either system, but if we wish to
grow this beautiful Stokesia some such method must be adopted.
S. cyanea comes from Carolina and other Southern States of
America, and grows from 18 inches to 2 feet in height. The
spatulate leaves, which are slightly hairy, are stem-clasping, and
the flower heads which are large are of a deep sky blue. Were it
not for the fault indicated — truly a grievous one — this would be
one of the best of our garden plants. — S. Arnott, Dumfries.

MARGARET CARNATIONS.

The above-mentioned Carnations are very useful for providing cut
flowers. Ours were raised from seed sown in March, and when large
enough the seedlings were pricked into pans filled with light soil.
When sufiBciently strong the young plants were placed singly into flO-sized
pots, kept in a frame until established, and then put out of doors in a
sunny position. They were subsequently shifted into 5-inch and 6-inch
pots, using good loam with a little leaf mould and sand and a sprinkling
of horn shavings, making the compost rather firm.

When the pots were filled with roots the plants were fed with soot
water and liquid manure about every third watering. They commenced
flowering about the end of September, when they were placed on the
shelf in the greenhouse. From about seventy plants we are able to
gather an abundance of flowers every week.

We have tried the planting out system during the summer, but it
did not answer half so well as keeping them in pots. — W. S.

SOME GOOD APPLES.

Magnum Bonum.

This is an Apple not much known, having flesh of the Golden Spire
type. The fruit is quite conical in shape, skin smooth and of a deep
golden yellow when ripe, at the end of September or early in October.
In habit of growth the tree is upright, requiring but a small amount
of space.

Greenup’s Pippin.

I find that Counsellor, Yorkshire Beauty, and Red Hawthornden
are simply synonyms of Greenup’s Pippin. It is a pity that Apples
almost a century old should be re-named, thereby misleading the
inexperienced. Apart from this, however, I wish to call attention to
the Apple under notice, not only for its good appearance, but for its
quality as a cooking variety. I know of no Apple that when roasted
preserves its form so well and is apparently quite hard, but it is, never¬
theless, just the reverse. The flesh is white when cooked. In
shape the Apple is faultless, having a smooth skin and a rosy cheek.
For home use or for market this cannot fail to be a profitable variety
to grow. It is in use in September.

Kirke’s Fame.

This Apple is seldom mentioned in the horticultural press. According
to Dr. Hogg in the “ Fruit Manual ” its proper name is Pomeroy of
Herefordshire. After describing it, the above mentioned authority
remarks that it is a very richly flavoured dessert Apple. With this
description I quite agree. From its appearance I should say that the
proper season for it is in October. It is an excellent cropper ; the tree
is of upright growth, not requiring much space, therefore all the more
to be encouraged as a garden variety.

Peck’s Pleasant.

This is an Apple not largely grown or widely known. The skin is of
a russety dull red thickly covered with large white spots, which renders
it somewhat remarkable in appearance. The eye is deeply sunken, the
fruit rather flat. Altogether it appears to be an Apple worthy of
extended cultivation.

Cardinal.

As an early culinary Apple for market this is to be recommended,
coming to a large size at the end of August. In addition, its colour
and perfect shape are sure to command a ready sale. The tree is a
vigorous grower, the foliage is really handsome, so luxuriant is it. For
a small garden Cardinal is just the Apple to plant, bush trees requiring
but little space.

Cox’s Pomona.

I would draw attention to this culinary Apple as a market variety.
Not only is it a good cropper, but the colour which it carries is all in its
favour. As a rule the colour spreads entirely over the fruit, and is less
affected by non-exposure to the sun than the bulk of other sorts. With
me the colour, streaks of bright crimson on a yellow’ base, is as much
deflned at the base as the apex. — E. M.

December 28, 1898. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

678

CyPRIPEDIUM INSIGNE VAR. ILLUSTRE.

There are many varieties of Cypripedium insigne now in
cultivation, and these vary much in character. During the past
few months three or four different forms have been adjudged
awards of merit by the Orchid Committee of the Koyal Horti¬
cultural Society, this number including the variety depicted in the
illustration (fig. 83). This was exhibited at the Drill Hall,
Westminster, S.W., by R. J. Measures, Esq., Cambridge Lodge,
Camberwell, on Tuesday, November 28th. It is a very distinct
kind, and attracted more than ordinary attention. The upper
sepal is yellowish green, unusually heavily spotted brown, and has
a well defined white tip. The petals are similarly marked, and the
lip dark thining brown.

ORCHID LESSONS FOR YOUNG GARDENERS.

ROOTS AND THEIR REQUIREMENTS.

(^Continued from -page 550.)

Before pointing out the requirements of Orchid roots we must
devote a few words to explaining in what respects they differ from
those of most other plants, as a good guide is obtained in our
practice if we understand with what we are dealing. In the first
place, Orchids can be divided into two natural groups for the
purposes of cultivation, as the requirements are very different.
The largest group is that comprising what are termed “ epiphytes ”
— namely, Orchids which are mostly found growing upon trees or
other plants, or on decaying vegetable matter, and but seldom in
the ordinary soil ; the other includes the so-called terrestrial
Orchids, which are commonly deciduous, losing their leaves and
growths every year, dying down to a fleshy tuber, which remains
under the soil through the period of rest. With the epiphytes
Orchid growers are mostly concerned, and to them first attention
must be devoted. The principal point that will be noted in con¬
sidering these plants is that the roots are naturally seldom covered
with much material, and this is of a light character, being formed
of such decayed vegetation as may accumulate where the Orchids
find a suitable spot for growing. As the plants are not parasites —
that is, they do not derive any food support from the sap of the
stems on which they live, it is therefore obvious the principal
nourishment of the epiphytal Orchids must come from the rains
and atmospheric moisture surrounding them. So it is that the
roots perform two functions — one being to hold the plant in
position, and the other to extract the requisite moisture from the
air or some light substance, which shall not bury them deeply. As
might be expected, the roots are very different from those of
plants which derive their support from soil in the ordinary way.
If examined they will be found to be comparatively thick and
fleshy, free from the numerous minute fibres characteristic of
other plants, while the roots produced on the stems, and therefore
entirely exposed to the air, are frequently found to be covered with
a whitish, ashen, or leaden coloured kind of bark, except the
young tips, which are usually of a greenish tint, and the condition
of these afford one of the most reliable indications of the health
and activity of many Orchids, especially those producing large
leafy stems. _

Three cultural hints can be derived from the facts mentioned,
first, that the roots being thick and fleshy are easily injured and
not readily renewed, pointing to the necessity of great care in
all operations ; secondly, that very little material is required about
the roots of the epiphytal Orchids, consequently it is a mistake to
bury them deeply in large pots under a mass of close substance,
excluding air from them, and leading to a sourness most antagonistic
to healthy growth ; thirdly, that gross nourishment is not required,
but a regular supply of moisture, and that the appearance of the
stem roots often gives us an excellent idea of the state of the plant.

In the case of the terrestrial Orchids the roots partake more of
an annual character, for after each season fresh roots are produced,
and the principal object of the cultivator is to encourage these to
make free and rapid progress by a liberal supply of readily available
food in a more substantial soil. Familiar examples of this class
are afforded by the Calanthes of the vestita group amongst those
grown under glass, and by Cypripedium spectabile amongst those
which can be grown out of doors. The same fleshy moisture-loving
character is, however, possessed even by these, and the only

temporary safeguard against carelessness is that the large pseudo¬
bulbs or tubers serve as storehouses from which the plant draws
supplies in time of need. — Orchidist.

(To be continued.)

REMARKS BEARING ON FRUIT CULTURE.

Having received a letter from a correspondent, who is a member of
a “Gardeners’ Mutual Improvement Association,’’ in which I am asked
to answer five questions of a practical and very interesting kind ; and in
writing answers thereto, it occurred to me that the matter might prove
as useful as it is opportune to readers of the Journal of Horticulture.
The questions are given in my correspondent’s own words, and are as
follows : —

(1) , Is canker in fruit trees caused principally by the roots penetrating
into bad subsoil, such as clay, sand or gravel ? Yes ; the principal
cause of canker in fruit trees is the pushing of the roots into a cold, wet,
poor, and perhaps, sour subsoil. Strong, vigorous growing varieties of
the Apple worked on a free stock are rarely affected with canker.

(2) , Are the roots of fruit trees (Vines in particular) under ordinary
treatment inactive during the winter months? Practically, if not
literally, the roots of fruit trees are inactive during the interval elapsing
from the shedding of the leaves to the bursting of the buds in the

spring, or at any time that circumstance may occur under artificial
treatment.

(3) , Do the roots of the Vines start into growth before or after top
growth has commenced ? I believe the roots of the Vine start
growing generally after top growth has commenced. This is certainly
the case where the roots are in outside borders, and I believe it is the
fact when the roots are growing in inside borders too. The Vine
grown under favourable circumstances has completed its functionary
preparations for another year’s work when it has shed its leaves, and so
the plump well-ripened buds only await the necessary amount of
increased light and warmth to push into growth in the spring in advance
of root action. This is only reasonable, seeing that the temperature —
to say nothing about the great importance of light as a factor of growth
— to which the top part of the Vine or tree is subjected, is uniformly
much higher than that of the soil about the roots.

(4) , Is it beneficial to supply manure water to fruit trees just
previous to their coming into bloom ? It is most certainly beneficial to
well water fruit trees with diluted liquid manure previous to their
coming into bloom, then, or at any other time, always assuming that
the condition of the soil about the roots is such as to render the applica¬
tion of water advisable. It is more important that the soil should not
be allowed to approach the dryness at the period indicated than at any
other stage (not excepting the time the fruit is stoning) of the tree’s
gro wth. Ocherwise the fruit buds would be likely to drop.

674

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Deo«mber S8, 1893.

Is it right when pruning fruit trees to cut “ clean away ” all growth
(excepting leaders required for further extension of the trees) so as to
leare no chance for any buds to start or form 1 No ; certainly not. In
the winter pruning of trees of the Apricot, Apple, Pear, Plum, and
Sweet Cherry (the summer “pinching ” having been duly attended to),
all young lateral growths should be cut back to within one eye or bud
of their bases. I am referring to established trees. In the case of
young trees obtained from the nursery or home growers, every available
shoot (excepting foreright shoots) should be spread out and trained
regularly over the wall space, bending the strong unpruned leading
growths towards the ground, and securing them to the wall in
that position with nails and shreds, afterwards fastening the
leaders thus operated on in their respective positions, and arranging
the young growths over the intervening spaces. All the foreright
shoots should be cut back to within one bud of their origin to induce
and promote the formation of spurs and fruit buds. In the matter of
hardy fruit culture, the main object should be to obtain large fruit¬
bearing trees of approved varieties of the several kinds in as short a
time as possible. Therefore, in starting with young orchard trees, the
leading shoots should be pruned back to within 8 or 9 inches of their
bases after they have shed their leaves in the autumn, and should
the growths resulting from the shortened back shoots in the spring be
likely to become crowded or to cross each other they must be pinched
back to within 2 or 3 inches of their origin. — A Fruit Grower and
Exhibitor.

JOTTINGS FROM DUBLIN.

A JUDGING engagement took me to Dublin for a few days during
■the month of November. I determined to make the most use of the
short time at disposal by inspecting the chief horticultural objects
situated in or near the city. Gladly accepting the proffered guidance
of an enthusiastic amateur horticulturist, a jaunting car was chartered.
The first order the “ jarvey ” received was St. Anne’s, the princely
residence of Lord Ardilaun, situated some five miles east from Sackville
Street. A telegram in advance made certain of finding Mr. Smith at
home, who has had charge of these gardens for the last twenty-six years.
A very pleasant hour was spent in his company.

Time did not permit of more than a cursory glance at each of the
various departments, but sufficient was seen to show that high cultiva¬
tion is the foremost object here. The first house we entered contained
some well-grown winter flowering Carnations ; Winter Cheer and
Whipper In made a bright display with their scarlet blossoms.
Mignonette for winter flowering is largely grown, the variety Machet
proving to be quite as valuable for this season as it is for early summer.
Cyclamens are more numerous and their wants better understood than I
had previously seen in any private garden.

A new and handsome structure is devoted to tropical plants, such as
Palms, Bananas, Tree Ferns and the like, all bearing the stamp of good
•cultivation. In another house adjoining Crotons, Dracasnas, and other
similar plants suitable for house decoration are grown in large numbers,
the demand for material of this class being a heavy one. Hardwooded
plants are not neglected either. Camellias, Azaleas, Epacris and Heaths
are admirably grown. Rambling freely under the roof in one of the
numerous span-roofed houses, I noted a healthy plant of Bomarea Carderl,
which is but seldom .seen in private gardens. Orchids do not occupy a
considerable space, but they have a healthy appearance. A very
fine form of Vanda coerulea was flowering at the time of my visit.
Forty guineas had been offered for one very small plant, so highly of
was it thought by one of our greatest Orchid cultivators, so rich is it in
its colouring. Cypripediums are well managed. Cattleyas, Laelias and
Zygopetalums are also well represented.

In the fruit houses there was of course little to see, but judging from
last season’s growth the Peach crop must have been a good one. The
Vines as far as could be judged from the appearance of the rods and
buds give good crops of fruit, quality being the chief point aimed at and
obtained. Strawberries in pots are numerously grown.

Out of doors all departments are in keeping with the inside.
Herbaceous plants are extensively cultivated. I was not a little sur¬
prised to hear that Salvia patens withstood the rigours of an Irish
winter with but a protection of coal ashes, a layer being placed about
the stems. As quite a dozen roots are growing in each clump the plants
when in bloom must produce a good effect. Border Carnations are
largely .grown, they are mainly planted in wide beds in the kitchen
garden, and rockery plants form a distinct feature. The best Yew
hedges that I have seen are here, and some lessons in hedge-clipping
could be had, so accurately is the work done. The square columns are
15 feet high, and many of the hedges are 7 feet, and in all cases these
latter have perpendicular sides and flat tops.

^ Conifers and forest trees are not of particular merit, the situation
being too near the sea and too much exposed to wind for luxuriant
growth. Some perfectly formed specimens of Weeping Ash I noted by
the side of the carriage drive. Evergreen Oaks were of uniform growth,
the foliage being rich in its tone of colour. The general appearance of
the place, which includes 60 acres of pleasure garden, reflected much
credit on the able custodian, who is apparently held in great respect by
his noble employer if one may judge from the handsome present of a
silver tea service with suitable inscription, made him upon the comple¬
tion of twenty-five years’ service.

After driving back to the city a change of guides took place, I
being handed over this time to the charge of two enthusiastic

horticulturists, one as hearty and entertaining an Irishman as ever
lived, as full of Irish wit and humour as the proverbial egg is
full of meat, who could not if he tried have copied the “ jarvey ”
(who spoke hardly a word during the whole of the day), which
to me was a surprise, as Irish “jarveys” were noted, 1 had been
informed, for their volubility of tongue. Just one instance of my
friend’s native wit before I close this part of my jottings. Our spirited
horse in going up a hill past the penal establishment took it into his
bead to turn suddenly and sharply round. The riding on an Irish car
being new to me I was prepared for a jump upon the slightest sign of
danger, which drew from my friend the remark, accompanied with a
merry twinkle in his eye, “ A sinsible man always sits still.”

In my next I will refer to my pleasant visit to Mr. F, W, Burbidgeat
the Trinity College Botanical Gardens. — E. Molyneux.

The Weather in London. — Bright and genial weather charac-
tised Christmas day. With a clear sky four hours of sunshine were
registered in Westminster, and there was an entire absence of rain in
the metropolis until about nine o’clock at night, when it fell heavily
for an hour or so. The temperature continued remarkably high for the
season, the lowest reading of the thermometer during the night being
40°, whilst the highest in the day was 46°. Tuesday was also fine,
but Wednesday opened dull, and as we are going to press a
fog prevails.

- Weather in the North. — With the exception of the 20th,

which was a calm clear day, the weather has been disagreeable during
the past week. There has been very little frost, but high winds and
rain have prevailed, and there was a slight fall of snow on the morning
of the 21st. Christmas Day was marked throughout by gusts of wind
and cold showers. Tuesday morning was dull, but so far fair and calm.
— B. D., S. Perthshire.

- The Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Institution. — The

fifty-fifth annual general meeting of the members of this Institution
will be held at “ Simpsons,” 101, Strand, London, W.G., on Wednesday,
January 17th, 1894, at 3 P.M. The meeting is called for the purpose of
receiving the report of the Committee and the accounts of the Insti¬
tution, electing oSicers for the ensuing year, and other affairs ; also for
the purpose of placing fifteen pensioners on the Fund. The Committee
request that all unpaid subscriptions for the year 1893 be forwarded to
the Secretary, Mr. G. J. Ingram, at the oflBce,50, Parliament Street, S.W.,
before the 31st inat., the date on which the financial year of the Insti¬
tution closes.

- We have received Part 20 of the “ Dictionnaire Pratique

d’Horticulture et Jardinage,” published by M. Octave Doin of
Paris, and which is edited by MM. Mottet, Vilmorin-Andrieux et Cie,
Alluard, E. Andre, G. Bellair, G. Legros, &c. It professes to be a
French translation of “ Nicholson’s Dictionary of Gardening,” but in
many respects is quite a different work, both in the letterpress and the
illustrations. To those who understand the French language it will be a
most useful work, and we commend it very highly to those who are able
to make use of it. We have not received Parts 17, 18, and 19.

- “ Index Kewensis.” — “A. C.” writes : — Relative to the notice

of the “ Index Kewensis” in the Journal of Horticulture (page 553),
may I offer a free translation of the very forcible Latin couplet ?

Opus est hactenns sine pari
Opus est quo, nullus carere potest.

A Work, so far, quite peerless beyond doubt !

A Work, this is, which none should be without !

- The St. Brigid Anemones. — Mr. S. Arnott observes These

beautiful Anemones can hardly be overpraised, and as one who has
grown them for a number of years, and has often wished to know who
“St. Brigid” is, I have been much interested in Mr. Burbidge’s article
on page 504. In mild seasons I cover a small bed with a frame, and am
thus enabled to cut flowers occasionally throughout the winter. The
method recommended of sowing the seed in March or April is an
excellent one for autumn and winter flowering, or for gardens where
the Crown Anemone does not succeed permanently planted.

December 28, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

575-

- Luculia aRATisSIMA. — Half a dozen plants of this Luculia

were planted eighteen months ago in a border composed of loam three
parts, the remainder leaf mould and peat in equal portions, with a little
sand and charcoal added. They are trained against the wall of a large
conservatory, and are now in flower, emitting a very sweet perfume.
The flowers fade quickly after cutting if the stems only are placed in
water, but if picked in rather small pieces and allowed to float in a bowl
of water they keep fresh for a much longer period, and are a welcome
addition at this time of year. — W. S.

- Crystal Palace Fruit Show. — I should like to add a few

words in support of the suggestion of “ H. W. W.” (page 508), which
has been so fully endorsed by “An Old Exhibitor ” (page 531). No
matter what shows are held in that grand monument to Sir J. Paxton’s
memory, whether they be of Rose, Fruit, or Chrysanthemums, exhibitors
and public alike speak in high terms of the effectiveness of the
arrangements there. It is therefore much to be regretted that the
great annual Fruit Show should have been discontinued during the
last two years, and I join with other exhibitors in expressing the
hope that the Crystal Palace Directors may be induced to resuscitate
their September Exhibition. An excellent and practical method of
approaching the Directors is suggested by “ D.” (page 531), and I
entertain a firm belief that if “H. W. W.” and the Editor will under¬
take the task their appeal on behalf of British fruit growers will not be
made in vain.— A Midland Counties Fruit Grower.

- Sunlight Soap Competitions. — Gardeners who make a

practice of exhibiting usually regard competitions as a stimulus to the
routine of everyday life, and as a deviation from these the “ Sunlight
Soap Competitions,” inaugurated by Messrs. Lever Brothers, are worthy
of notice. Particulars of these competitions are given in our adver¬
tisement pages. The enterprise of the proprietors of this domestic
necessity has developed a world-wide trade.

- Ripening Green Tomatoes. — Compared with the customary

methods in this country, some ideas of our transatlantic cousins appear
strange, as witness the following : — “ Among various plans for ripening
green Tomatoes which are usually found on the plants when frost kills
them, the ‘Florists’ Exchange’ gives the advice to spade up a piece
of ground which is protected on the north side, then pull up the
plants with the fruits, spread them over the newly spaded ground and
cover them with straw, leaves, corn stalks, or anything which is most
convenient to keep them warm at night. The heat of the earth will
ripen the fruits perfectly. The fruit does not wilt, and the flavour will
be as good as if it ripened in the sun.” Has any British Tomato grower
tried this method ? — A; B. C.

- Room Plants. — There are few plants of any description

grown in pots that are of greater value at this time of the year than are
those evergreens that will do well in fairly cool rooms, yet from which
frost is excluded. By evergreens I do not mean shrubs, but Palms^
Ferns, Aspidistras, Dracaenas, Indiarubber, and Asparagus, all of great
beauty now because decorative plants in cool rooms are scarce. I have
in a room looking west a Kentia Fosteriana that was given me last
spring. It is some SO inches in height, and is in perfect condition.
Other smaller ones are growing and do ng well, Dracaena indivisa
2 feet high, is excellent, so also are variegated Aspidistras, which I
obtained six months ago, and are as good as ever, perhaps better. The
Adder’s-tongue Fern does so well because its fronds clean so admirably.
This, however, may be said of many others. I have a plant, dug up
from a ditch in the New Forest some three years since, that does
capitally in a room, and a more recent addition is a well-seasoned
clump of Asparagus plumosus nanus, so fragile looking, so graceful, and
yet so admirable for room culture, indeed one of the best. I think
a cool room, in which fire and gas are used but once a week, is much
better than is a room more frequently heated. It is true we have not
had much frost so far, and the winter has been very favourable, still
should the weather prove hard a little artificial warmth can easily be
furnished. That there are many of these good green or variegated
plants in cultivation, of which little as to their domestic usefulness is
known, there can be no doubt, I am not referring to plants that are
kept in rooms for a week, then out again ; I write of those that will
nearly always, but especially for several months, keep fresh and growing.
What an interesting thing would be a competition at the Drill Hall of
three, four, or six plants grown in pots in living rooms for a period of
six months previously, having windows only to furnish light and air.
That would, be something novel in the way of plant exhibits. — D.

- Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society. — The flower

shows of this Society will be held in the Waverley Market, Edinburgh,
on Wednesday and Thursday, 4th and 5th April ; Wednesday and
Thursday, 11th and 12th July; Wednesday and Thursday, 12th and
13th September, 1894,

- Parona pAniculata. — An American contemporary eulogises

this Parona, and says it is an annual fast-growing, twining, high
climbing, downy plant, with ample much-branched panicles of small,
somewhat tubular, white flowers. The leaves are cordate, 2^ to
3J inches long, smooth above but downy underneath, and rather
suggestive of those of some of the small-leaved Aristolochias.

- London Gardens. — A correspondent writes : — Apropos of

the interesting articles by “ J. R. S. 0.” (pages 52G and 550) the follow¬
ing clipping from a recent number of the “ Nineteenth Century,” may
be worth reproducing : — “ London alone has, since the formation of the
Metropolitan Public Gardens Association in 1882, increased her open
spaces by 157, containing 4998 acres, while the entire number of public
parks and gardens within easy reach of the inhabitants of the metro- ,
polis is 271, containing 17,876 acres, which include 6380 acres acquired .
and maintained by the Corporation of the City of London. We may
roughly say that the cities and towns of the United Kingdom, including
the metropolis, possess some 500 open spaces over 40,000 acres ia
extent,”

- Death op Mr. George Thorpe. — We regret to learn from

the American papers of the death of Mr. George Thorpe, the youngest son
of Mr. John Thorpe, which occurred on the morning of November 23rd.
For three weeks previous Mr. Thorpe had been confined to his room with
typhoid pneumonia. He was twenty-one years cf age, and was identified
with his father in the latter’s position as Chief of Floriculture at the
World’s Fair. The illness that caused his death was induced by exposure
while attending to his duties at the Fair. He was in the habit of reaching
the grounds every morning at four o’clock, and he often remained there
until late at night. Mr. Thorpe was a promising young man, of a genial
disposition, and made many warm friends. The funeral services were
attended by numerous friends and societies, who followed his remains
to Oakwoods Cemetery. The Chicago Florists’ Club, of which he was a
member, attended in a body. ^ ^

- Shropshire Horticultural Society. — The annual meeting

of this Society was held on Monday, the 18th inst., when there was a
good attendance of members. His Worship the Mayor (W. L. Browne^
Esq.), was voted to the chair. Mr. W. W. Naunton (one of the HoOr
Secs.), read the annual report of the Committee, which included the
following ; — “ The continued success which attended the exhibitions of
the Society during the present year is a matter for congratulation, but-
there is nothing which calls for any special remarks. The accounts will
be found very satisfactory, showing a profit for the year of about £850.
Arrangements for 1894 are in progress, and there is every reason to hope
that with the usual kind co-operation of the railway companies and thn
corporation, the previous successes of the Society will be fully main¬
tained.” Mr. W. Phillips (one of the Hon. Treasurers) then read the
statement of accounts. In the statement for 1893 the receipts included
Interest on invested capital £110 9s.; subscriptions received, £404 ISs.;
cash taken at Spring Show, £15 ISs. 9J.; received for rents, £57 19s. Gd.;
cash for refreshment contracts, Summer Show, £354 18s. 9d.; takings at
gate, first day, £504 15s. 8d.; second day, £1459 6s. 2d.; cheap tickets
sold by Messrs. Adnitt & Naunton, £496 16s. lOJ. Total receipts^for
the year, £3631 128. 5d, The disbursements included : — Spring Show
expenses, £85 11s. lOd.; prize money. Summer Show, £845 lls. 6d,,'
sports and fireworks, £455 53.; horse leaping, £101 53. 3d,; baBda;.
£286 188, 9d.; hire of tents, gas, enclosing ground, &c., '£321 193. Sd;;'
printing, £143 lls, 7d.; advertising, £156 IGs. 91. The balance carried;
forward is £694 3s, 8d. The statement showing the actual position of
the Society was read as follows : — To balance as per last balance sheet,
viz., at banker’s on current account, £761 43. 9J.; on deposit, £500— »
£1261 48. 9d. ; balance in hand on 1893 accounts £604 3s. 8d.; amount
transferred from deposit account to current account, £1750 ;'amo«nt
invested on Kingsland Bridge Debentures, £1000 ; investment on Police’
Station, £500. Total, £5205 89. 5d. By amount paid for fields and
gardens purchased from J. L. Burton Esq , £3150 ; paid for valnationj
£10 17s. 6d.; solicitor’s charges (half legal fees) £33 I63.; deposit'on!
Circus Fields and other property £230 ; balance in banker’s handsi
£280 153. lid,; Kingsland Bridge Debentures, £1000; Police Station’
investment, £500. Total, £5,205 83. 5d. It was subsequently remarked
that since its inauguration the Society has contributed £5OO0 towards
the charitable institutions of Shrewsbury. v. i

576

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 28, 1893.

- Colonial Gardening Appointments. — We are informed

that Mr. H. J. Davies, who for some time past has been sub-foreman of
the Orchid department at the Royal Gardens, Kew, will shortly leave
England for the Calcutta Botanic Gardens. Mr. J. Ward, also from
Kew, goes out as Curator of the Magpur Gardens in the Bengal Presi¬
dency. Mr. H. Millen, after a six months’ holiday, has left England
once more for the Lagos Gardens, of which he is Curator.

- Ivy under Trees. — Mr. E. Molyneux writes : — The best

example of utilising Ivy for covering the ground under large forest
trees, where but little else would grow that I have seen, is at Dove
Park, Woolton, a suburb of Liverpool. A width of about 15 feet
on each side of a long winding carriage drive, planted with Beech,
Sycamore, and Lime trees, is covered quite thickly with Irish Ivy,
making a charming green carpet fully 1 foot thick. True, the trees are
not furnished with branches very near the ground, which is all in favour
of the Ivy. One would think that the leaves falling from the trees
would have an untidy appearance amongst the Ivy, but such is not the
case ; they seem to be thoroughly hidden by the Ivy covering. Mr.
Carling told me that they always throw the leaves among the Ivy when
cleaning the drive. In time they decay, and act as a surface dress¬
ing and manure for the Ivy. Examples of this kind are well worthy
of imitation, the result being so satisfactory.

- Bananas. — The Banana is not nearly so largely cultivated in

English gardens as it deserves, one chief reason being the amount of
space required when given full root room. We have had six plants of
Musa Cavendish! growing in a bed 12 feet long by 6 feet wide, and
about 3 feet 6 inches deep, in a compost comprising good turfy loam
and decayed stableyard manure. When planted on April 1st, 1893, they
had scarcely any roots, but by shading and frequently syringing the
plants have attained enormous dimensions, and are all carrying tremen-
. dous clusters of fruit. One plant measures 3 feet in circumference at the
base of the stem, and is carrying a bunch 3 feet long, and thickly packed
'With fruit. The other four measure from 2 feet 8 inches to 3 feet at
‘ base of stem, and are carrying bunches of similar dimensions. We cut
one bunch about the 25th of November weighing 130 lbs., with
186 fruits on it, which we have been using for dessert. The plants have
• been watered occasionally with liquid manure, and assisted by night
-with a gentle fire heat. The remaining fruits are swelling fast, and
promise a long lasting supply for dessert.— Arthur Smith, Foreman,
Knightshayes Court.

— — Royal Meteorological Society.— The monthly meeting of
this Society was held on Wednesday evening, the 20th inst., at the
Institution of Civil Engineers, 25, Great George Street, Westminster,
Dr. C. Theodore Williams, President, in the chair. Mr. C. Harding,
F.R.Met.Soc., gave an account of the “ Great Storm of November 16th
to 20th, 1893. This storm was the most violent of recent years, and so
far as anemometr.'cal records are concerned, the wind attained a greater
velocity than has previously been recorded in the British Islands. The
velocity of the wind was ninety-six miles in the hour from 8.30 to
9.30 P.M., November 16th, in the Orkneys, where the hurricane burst
with such suddenness that it is described as like the shot of a gun ; and
the wind afterwards attained the very high rate of ninety miles and
upwards in the hour for five consecutive hours. At Holyhead the storm
was terrific. The anemometer recorded a wind velocity of eighty-nine
miles in the hour, and it was eighty miles or above for eleven hours ;
while the force of a whole gale, sixty-five miles an hour and upwards)
was maintained for thirty-one hours, and for four and a half days the
mean hourly velocity was fifty-four miles. Many of the gusts were at
the rate of 115 miles an hour ; and at Fleetwood a squall occurred with
the wind at the rate of 120 miles in the hour. The storm was felt over
the entire area of the United Kingdom, and the wreck returns show
that disasters occurred with almost equal frequency on all coasts. Four
weeks after the storm the official records gave the total loss of life on
our coasts as 335, while there were 140 vessels which had been abandoned
or had foundered, stranded, or met with other severe casualty, involving
either loss of life or saving of life by some extraneous assistance. There
were 600 lives saved on our coasts by aid of the Life Boat Institution
and other means. The author has tracked the storm from the neighbour-
ho^ of the Bahamas on November 7th across the Atlantic and over the
British Islands to Central Europe on November 20th. The other papers
read were “Rainfall and Evaporation Observations at the Bombay
Waterworks,” by Mr. S. Tomlinson, M.Inst.C.E. ; and “ On Changes

M Months,” by Mr. A. E. Watson, B.A.,

Rose, Mrs. W. C. Whitney.

For the accompanying illustration (fig. 84) and description of this
charming Rose we are indebted to “ Gardening.” Says our excellent
transatlantic contemporary : — “This is a vigorous Rose of the American
Beauty stamp, raised from seed by Mr. John N. May of Summit, N.J.,
who describes it as a Hybrid Tea. Its parents are Souvenir d’un Ami
crossed with American Beauty. The flower is large and heavy,the colour
is a deep clear pink, and the fragrance is delicious. It was obtained
after several years’ trial to obtain the same result. Seedling Roses
are very difficult to raise. Oftentimes when desiring to reach a
certain point the conditions are so that the seeds either fail to set, or
after they have set and matured, fail to germinate ; this was the case in
this partieular instance. Finally, however, success followed our efforts,
and the Mrs. W. C. Whitney Rose is the result. It is one of the freest
flowering Roses in existence, and it has handsome, heavy foliage.”

Classification and Protection of Roses.

All your numerous readers at all interested in Rose growing eagerly
read with pleasure all that “ W. R. Raillem” sends to “ our Journal.”
On his contribution in last week’s Journal (page 559) I wish to make a
few remarks. In my opinion there is no sure resting place for the
classification of modern summer and autumn flowering Roses other than
that of Hybrid Perpetuals. They are so much interbred that no
other designation is true or logical in my opinion. Let any rosarian
judicially consider the leaves and wood of Edith Gifford and Comtesse
de Nadailac, or even Ernest Metz, and if they can, avoid the conviction
that they are not pure Teas, but hybrids. And fancy the perpetual
Gloire de Dijon being classed with Niphetos or Adam 1 Even a pure
Bourbon is a “ Hybrid Perpetual,” we might add where needed, of
“ Tea stain ” or “ Bourbon strain,” but Hybrid Perpetuals is the proper
classification.

As to protection, burnt rubbish in a mound of 6 inches and then
stable manure I have found best for some thousands of plants. — S. S,

Protecting Tea Roses.

Mr. Grahame, and other suburban Rose growers, if they have no
leaves for the protection of their Teas, may yet congratulate themselves
that they have not, in the large trees so often thickly present in
country gardens, one of the greatest obstacles to the successful culture
of the Rose, and they should also remember that walls and buildings
which drop no seeds have no robbing roots, and refract and increase the
heat, are the very best shelter against the wind, and are even in some
small degree a protection against wind-frosts. If actually in the smoke-
circle of a large town, no doubt watering, syringing, and even sponging
of the leaves are sometimes necessary,

“ R, M, D.” (page 559) may rest assured that I have not only no
objection to “ slightly disturbing the surface,” but even regard it (by
means of a hoe, not a fork) as perhaps the most important point in what
may be strictly called the cultivation of the Rose. But as I said last
week, I do not at all know how manure can be got into the ground with
a fork by only slightly disturbing the surface. 1 can further assure
him that I am most serious in recommending leaves as the best pro¬
tection from frost. That they are efficient I have thoroughly proved in
the past hard winters, and recent correspondence in the Journal has
shown how they even keep Apples in the open in good condition. I
recommend their being placed in, around, and among the dwarf Teas
18 inches to 2 feet in depth, when they probably generate some very
slight heat in themselves. It will be found that they do not blow away,
the low thorny branches holding them. We have had severe gales from
every quarter during the last few weeks ; trees, chimney-pots,
and palings have been blown down, but my Tea Roses are as well
protected as before.

Let “R. M. D.” examine any low thorny bush not under shade, but
in an open field, provided there be trees any distance off in the hedges.
Instead of the leaves having been blown away from the bush during the
winter, he will find that they have been blown into it, and remain there
thick and deep till the spring. He will also see, if he looks to page 540,
that I said “ the great bulk” — not all — “ of the leaves fall in ten days
or a fortnight.” I think if “ Practice ” (page 559) had had practice in
growing Tea Roses in low-lying ground in the eastern counties, he would
certainly have had great losses during the past few winters if he had not
protected his plants with the greatest care and precaution. He alludes to
Magnolias : my plant has sto^ unprotected during the last eight years,
and has suffered no harm whatever during winters which have some¬
times swept away my Tea Roses, in spite of all my protection and care,
— W. R. Raillem.

Blue Roses,

The late Mr. Laxton, in reply to an inquiry I once made of him in
the columns of the Journal of Horticulture, wrote — “ A yellow Perpetual
ought long since to have been evolved from Lyons or the sunny South.
Now, however, that Rose-crossing in earnest is being taken up with
skill, judgment, and the best appliances in this country and the United

December 28, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

677

States, I shall be a dishonoured prophet if we do not secure during the
next decade not only a yellow but a violet and a white A. K. Williams.”
This was in 1882. Our progress has not been what Mr. Laxton expected.
We have had some admirable, I dare not say English, but United
Kingdom Roses, not, however, what were predicted. A yellow H.P. did
appear with a flourish of trumpets, but it is at present white. A violet
A. K. Williams may come at any time, but we are no nearer to a sky
blue Rose.

I have lately had the advantage of a conversation with the prime
mover in the home of those wonderful Cinerarias, Cyclamens, and
Primulas, which originate at Reading. He has described to me the birth
of a blue Primula. A similar close attention to Nature, watching and
adapting it, if it could be obtained, would surely bring about a blue
Rose. What I gather is that white flowers, and to a certain extent
pale blue, are a sign of weakness of constitution, and may come from
adverse circumstances. The colouring matter in flowers is affected
by temperature, dry ness,
soil, and other recondite
causes.

The Bride has a green
tinge, I think, peculiar
to its white, which if
cultivated might lead
on to something ; but
Mr. Martin considers a
tinge of light blue more
likely to be found in
some of the other white
Teas, the less robust
ones rather than any¬
where else, and that, if
this could be obtained
and followed, the colour
required might gradually
be procured. At the
same time it must be
admitted that possibly,
in the eyes of some
people, this flower if
produced would be like
that horse of notoriety,
which was very difficult
to catch, and when
caught worth only little,

I may remark, speak¬
ing of comparatively
new Roses, that with
me Margaret Dickson
hag proved a remark¬
able climber, giving
shoots 10 feet long even
during the drought of
the past summer. — A. C.

Hybeid Teas.

I COULD not help
thinking of the quota¬
tion, “ That in the
captain’s but a choleric
word, which in the
soldier is flat blas¬
phemy,” when I read
the very true and pun¬
gent remarks of “ W. R.

Raillem ” on the sub¬
ject of Hybrid Teas in
the Journal of last week
(page 559), and it cer¬
tainly caused a grim
smile to flit across my
face. I note that “ W.

R. Raillem,” with due

discretion, got the assent of the Secretaries of the National Rose
Society to bis stating his views, and that he thinks, as I do, that
“ the catalogue always has been open to criticism.” Some time ago
I had the temerity to tell one of the Secretaries that I intended to
criticise the new catalogue, as I considered it teemed with errors in
wrong descriptions, and also that there were notable omissions. The
reply I received from him was that, having been a member of the cata¬
logue Committee, it would be “ presumption ” to criticise my colleagues’
work !

Having explained my quotation, I add a few comments. The Hybrid
Tea class, as I said in the discussion on this classiflcation at the annual
meeting, is one of the worst blunders the Society has ever committed.
Even the Rev. W. Wilks, the Chairman of the annual meeting, who looks,
with good reason, on La France as “ the Saul ” amongst Roses, was unaware
till I drew his attention to the fact that La France was now termed a
Hybrid Tea. This year it was debarred from exhibition at the Earl’s Court
show as a Hybrid Perpetual, and, as a matter of course, it could not be
shown as a Tea Rose. Could the height of absurdity further go ? The
Hybrid Tea classification hag simply been, and is, a mistake, and as “ W. R.
Raillem ” tersely puts it, is inconsistent. As to the general opinion on

FIG. 84.— BOSE MBS. W. C. WHITNEY.

its value, except by the few who introduced the division to the
Society’s arrangements, I have never heard anyone outside the Com¬
mittee say a word in its favour, and one of our Secretaries has been
throughout a consistent opponent of it ; yet in this year’s report it is
referred to as if the arrangement had met with general and favourable
acceptation.

A novice in Rose-growing who had heard of La France, Viscountess
Folkestone, and Grace Darling as being amongst desirable Roses to
grow, and being told they were not Tea Roses, would be puzzled on
searching in some catalogues which follow the N.R.S. arrangement, not
to find them mentioned in the great H.P. division. I notice that one
of our greatest growers and exhibitors has in his catalogue this year,
probably in despair, mixed up all his Roses, merely giving those he
grows in alphabetical order, and denoted them by the initials H.P.,
T., or H.T. The plan he adopts seems a good and useful one, as
experienced rosarians ki.ow all about the divisions, and those who are

inexperienced do not
want conundrums when
they are looking for
names of Roses.

I hope “ W. R. Rail¬
lem ” will further follow
up his criticism, as I am
quite of his opinion that
the new classification is
“ unsatisfactory and un¬
likely to be permanent.”
Unless Mr. Frank Cant’s
wording of the rule
about H.T.’s had been
accepted at the annual
meeting there would
have been grave dis¬
satisfaction, as the other
alteration suggested
would have caused the
practical disfranchise¬
ment of several of our
most beautiful Roses in
the “ open classes,” a
result which would be
deplorable in view of
the beautiful exhibits —
of La France, for in¬
stance — which are usu¬
ally sent by some of the
great rosarians to our
exhibitions. — Chables
J. Geahame, Croydon.

P.S. — To show the
estimation in which the
new Hybrid Tea class is
held, I may mention
there was not a single
entry made in the class
specially reserved for
them at the Crystal
Palace Show this year.
— C. J. G.

Manueing and Tbans-

PL ANTING Roses.
Any remarks in con¬
nection with the subject
of Rose culture from the
fluent pen of '• W. R.
Raillem ” are always
interesting and original,
and beneath the spirited
style of a free lance
lurks much information
which is sound, though perhaps not always practicable. I can fully
appreciate the force of his remarks on page 540, even though I torm the
target for his well-aimed shafts, which though they hit do not penetrate,
because I can bring forward sounder reasons in support of the practice
I advocate than your correspondent has yet advanced against them.
My experience is altogether at variance with the idea that “ it is a
mistake to try and make a top-dressing of manure in winter act as both
food and protection — as a manure and as a mulch” From a theoretic
point of view I admit the most economical way of employing manure is
to cover it with soil as soon as it is spread upon the land, so that as
decay takes place the whole of its nutritious properties are absorbed by
the soil ; but our object in manuring Roses in the autumn is to give
them protection and food in one operation. Of the soundness of this
practice I am thoroughly convinced after trying various plans, especially
during the last few years, during which time our winters have surely
been severe enough to prove a fair test.

Although we are situated in a cold district of the Midland counties,
the only extra protection any of our Roses receive during the winter is
a mu ching of manuie as previously advised. The tender varieties of
Teas are planted only in sheltered positions or against walls, and our

678

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December 2S, 1893.

loss through frost is not more than 3 per cent. Let this, therefore,
suffice as to the wisdom of giving manure as a mulch. Now, in regard
to giving it in the autumn as a food. “W. R. Raillem” asserts that
some good will be done by the rain permeating the manure, but not
much. I maintain that a vast amount of good is the result, so much so,
that I find no difficulty in maintaining the fertility of the soil to as
high a state as is desirable by following the practice, because it is always
advisable to give extra stimulants in the way of liquid and artificial
manures during the growing and flowering periods. If, then, the matter
is satisfactory from both points of view, why incur the labour of giving
a rough mulch, which requires removal in spring, so that manure may
be applied 1 The only advantage to be gained is a slight economy in the
matter of manure. This is of little consequence in our own case, as
we have unlimited supplies of manure, but labour is a matter for far
greater consideration.

I will not, however, rely entirely upon my own experience in this
matter, so I search to see what that successful rosarian the Dean of
Rochester has to say upon the subject. In his “ Book About Roses ”
(page 65) I find this significant passage : “ The season when manure is

applied is also a material circumstance. I have made many experi¬
ments, but I have come back to the plan which I adopted first of all,
and I believe it to be the best — namely, to give the Rose trees a liberal
stratum of farmyard manure in November, leaving it as a protection as
well as a fertiliser through the winter months, and digging it in in
March.”

“ W. R. Raillem’s” graphic description of the difficulties attending the
simple practice of forking manure into Rose beds at springtime are
rather imaginary than real. Three inches of manure put on during
autumn or winter would by the action of rain and frost be reduced to
little more than half that thickness when the time for forking over the
beds arrived. A good workman would accomplish the task quite easily,
without injuriously affecting the surface roots, and would have sufficient
common sense to remove any very rough portions which could not be
easily forked in. I am not one of those gardeners who are afraid to
touch a root, as I consider the little damage done to them in the opera¬
tion of forking in manure is altogether overbalanced by the great benefit
both soil and roots derive from the admission of sunlight and air. This
is the everyday teaching of both science and practice. I have now to
deal with the concluding portion of “ W. R. Raillem’s ” criticisms, in
which he clearly shows that his knowledge of trees and their habits is so
superficial as to proclaim its own weakness, otherwise the remark that
the “ great bulk of leaves fall in ten days or a fortnight ” would scarcely
have crept into print, because the time during which the bulk of leaves
fail depends upon how great a variety of trees a garden contains, and
the amount of wind or frosts which we experienced during the autumn.
We have numbers of Sycamore trees which cast their leaves in shoals by
the end of September or early in October. By the middle of November
Oak and Beech are doing the same thing, and between these two dates
they are continually falling in fluctuating numbers.

To a rosarian who is lord of his own domain it perhaps matters but little
when the leaves are swept up, but how many head gardeners would keep
their positions if they acted on this principle, just at the time when
large house parties are the order of the day ? But even if through the
tolerance of their employers they managed to do this the green slimy
condition of the walks, which would be the inevitable result, would
require more expenditure to put them right again than would be
incurred in daily sweeping. — A Lover of Roses.

NOTES ON PEARS.

A very interesting communication was that by Mr. Abbey on
Fertilising Pears,” page 506. For many years past I have devoted
some attention to the question Mr. Abbey brings forward, and with the
greatest possible good. Especially have I found it so on our arch of
espalier-trained trees, which is about 120 yards long, nearly all the trees
being over forty years old. I commenced the operation through
observing the great scarcity of bees in some seasons over others whilst
the trees were in blossom, and after the fruit was set the great number
of deformed fruit which were to be found on these old trees.

I had considered the free-setting qualities of some varieties to others,
and came to the conclusion that much might be done in assisting ferti¬
lisation ; but the camel-hair brush was too tedious a practice on these
old trees, and to limit the time to the lowest possible minimum a rabbit’s
tail was procured, tied to the end of a long stick, and the work was
speedily performed, with such good results that I have followed the
practice now for the past seven years. To enter into details on the
varieties would only be to make a repetition of most of those which
Mr. Abbey has enumerated. One more word to say that with us Beurr4
Diel, planted against a south wall in soil 2 feet from the solid clay, is
of very good flavour ; but if Mr. Abbey could (and I know of no one
more qualified to give an opinion, judging from the active researches in
which he is always engaged) tell me why Beurr^ Diels crack in wet
weather as well as dry I should esteem it a great favour, for we suffer
from this evil to a great extent with our bush trees of this variety.

Never has the lesson of gathering Pears at intervals been placed
before us with such a certain measure of success, and to keep up a good
supply it cannot be ignored. We commenced with Citron des Carmes,
which was almost useless. Williams’ Bon Chretien and Jargonelle were
good, but soon over. Beurr4 d’Amanlis was conspicuous by splendid
fruit, and the quality really good. I join hands with “ Northerner ”

(page 495) in praise of Pitmaston Duchess. It has cropped well, been
of good flavour, and so far from using it for stewing, regret was expressed
when they were not forthcoming any longer for dessert. Clou Mor^eau
we are now using, and it is superior in flavour to those of former years.
Doyenn^ du Comice has been good in every way, a point in its favour,
having at the recent Liverpool Show the first and second prizes awarded
to it for a single dish of ripe Pears. Easter Beurr6 and Beurr^ Ranee are
keeping well, the latter coming good in certain seasons. I agree as to
the worthlessness of Beurre Clairgeau and Beurr6 Bose for dessert.
When well grown they are handsome fruits, but we only use them
for stewing. Prince Consort I have once remarked upon in the Journal.
The tree is a good grower and cropper with us, fruit of large size, pale
russet and green spots, a grand keeper, and the most juicy Pear in
cultivation. It is the one of all others for invalids, not being too sweet
as in such varieties as Fondante d’Automne, or with the musky aroma of
Nec Plus Meuris. In this precarious season there has not been a fault to
be found with it. — R. P. R.

JUDGING AT EDINBURGH.

In answer to Mr. Robert Laird (page 530), I have to say — 1, Regard¬
ing the appointment of an expert officially. The fact is that an
“ expert ” did point the four stands in question ; not only so, but in my
hearing Mr. Laird gave the expert instructions to proceed, as he was
doing, in the pointing of the blooms, and to hand him the results
after he had finished. The figures as appearing at page 503 were
presented to the Secretary, and I also was presented with the same
figures in the handwriting of the genGeman who pointed the stands,
the document containing the said results being now in my possession,
with the signature of the expert subscribed. Will you be surprised
that I inferred that the said expert had an official standing ? If I was
mistaken in drawing this inference, I beg to express my regret, and
accept Mr. Laird’s denial on this head.

2, Regarding the second denial of Mr. Laird, I am much surprised
to learn that he denies the acknowledgement of the misjudgment. I
am strong in the recollection of his explicit statement of the error in
the judgment, and immediately on his acknowledgement of the error I
requested him to send the fact to the Press, but this he refused to do.
It is only right to say here that the acknowledgement was verbal.

I had a communication from the Secretary, dated the 21st of
November, stating that they (the Committee) “ have no power to ask the
Judges to show how they arrive at their conclusion in any case of
dispute.” There was no reference whatever in this communication from
the Secretary as to any confidence being reposed in the skill atnd
integrity of the Judges, which he seems to indicate was part of the
contents of the said communication to protestors. — William Rushton,
Cochno Gardens, Diintocher.

[We believe our correspondent wrote in good faith. He did not, it
would appear, discriminate between the private and official capacities
of some of the officials of the Show. He is not to be blamed for the
step he took under the circumstances, as he was not the cause of the
misunderstanding and disquietude. The “expert” informs us that
if he had pointed the blooms the first day the points would have
differed still more widely from the official awards. He was desired, but
not officially appointed, to examine the collections.]

Grafting Chrysanthemums.

Experiments in grafting the Chrysanthemums on stocks of
Anthemis frutescens have been highly successful in various localities
this year. According to the “ Garden and Forest,” a specimen of the
variety Val d’Andorre, exhibited at Brussels last month, measured
9 feet in diameter and bore 783 flowers. Other. grafted varieties did not
make such large bushes, but bore numerous flowers of great size and of
unusually deep colours.

^Mrs. James Carter.

The value of this small flowered Japanese variety for decoration in
a cut state is becoming more apparent, judging by the number of it
seen in bouquets, baskets, vases, sprays, and fan-covered decorations
at shows. The small thread-like florets, creamy white in colour, asso¬
ciate so well with other flowers other than Chrysanthemums. When the
plants are cultivated to produce an abundance of blossoms in prefertnee
to fewer but. larger specimens many of them are not more than 2 inches
in diameter, which renders them all the more suitable for the form of
decorative use to which they can be applied.

December 38, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

679

Comte F. Lurani.

Apart from its value aa an exhibition variety in a cut state, thia ia
one of the best for grouping purposes. Keally good blooms are produced
upon plants under a yard high, which dispenses with the necessity of
following the " cutting down ” system to obtain dwarf plants. As a
decorative plant, the stems being thickly clothed with dark green leaves,
coupled with the semi-drooping character of the florets, it is diSicult to
surpass. The colour of the flower is a warm rose, frosted white, which
gives it a novel yet pleasing appearance, — E. M.

Elsie and Buttercup.

Cultivated in buah form with a view to produce a large number of
cut flowers either for use in a cut state or as plants for the conservatory
these are two excellent varieties. The former belongs to the reflexed
section. The blooms are not of extra size, but quite large enough ; the
tips of the flat florets droop gracefully. In colour the blooms are
pale yellow when opening, passing with age to a deep creamy white.
This variety also makes a good trained specimen plant.

Buttercup is a single-flowered variety, in colour rich yellow, as its
name implies. The florets are nearly erect, forming a cup-like bloom.
The growth ia vigorous, and wonderfully free in flowering.

Chrysanthemum America.

This is a single-flowered variety, possessing considerable merit from
a decorative point of view. That such a beautiful sort should have
escaped attention so long is a matter for surprise and regret, and this
remark holds good in reference to single varieties generally. I cannot
say whether it is usually so late in flowering as it ia with us this season ;
if BO it would be a valuable addition to the Christmas display. It is
now at its best, and arrests attention more quickly than any other
in the house. The flowers are comparatively large, the florets wavy and
narrow, and the colour a delicate shade of blush pink relieved by a
yellow disc. For arranging in vases I know of few flowers so effective,
and to see it at its best it ought not to have any other association, except
perhaps some foliage of an approved kind. It does not appear to be so
free as some varieties in supplying cuttings, nor is its constitution so
vigorous, but its graceful blooms compensate any other failings. —
W. S., Rood Ashton.

ABOUT ONIONS.

That pest, the Onion maggot, crops up in all directions. “ Nothing
has given me so much trouble as the Onion maggot,” said a gardener to
me the other day ; and he did but say just what is in the minds of
thousands who have been troubled by this insect. “ Did I think that
sowing seed on the same ground two years in succession was harmful ? ”
I answered, “From a cultural point of view, noi so, if the needful Onion
food was furnished ; but so far as the maggot was concerned it was
rather trying to court harm than endeavouring to avoid it.” Still it is
evident that dealing, not with a creeping insect but a winged insect, it
would be very difficult to avoid it in the same garden, even when
sowings took place as remote from each other yearly as is possible.

I advise in preference to sowing in the open ground in the spring at
all, growing the best of our Spanish and Globe type Onions from
autumn sowings, and then sowing seeds under glass early in April,
growing in frames till hardened and strong, and finally planting out
into the open ground thinly at the end of May. Plants so raised would
be at that time as strong as any raised from seed sown in the open early
in March. It is rare that plants so treated are affected by the maggot.
Of course, I discriminate between the practices advised and the now
common one of sowing seeds in midsummer, to give eventually, when
planted out into very rich soil, large exhibition bulbs ; that is another
matter.

For the production of an ordinary crop of hard, well matured bulbs
a sowing in shallow pans or boxes, giving several hundreds, or
if need be, thousands of plants for dibbling out thinly, made early in
April is certainly soon enough. So far as I have seen the maggot is
always the most troublesome on light soil. That being so, ground for
the reception of Onion plants in May should, after being deeply worked
and manured, be well trodden, then rolled, and in that condition if
dibbling be difficult it would be, no doubt, all the better for the plants
in the end.— A. D.

NATURE’S HELPS TO GARDENERS.

Ladybirds and Their Larvh3.

As larvae and perfect insects the ladybirds deserve our care, for in
both conditions they revel on a diet of aphides. Fortunately the beauty
of the perfect insects generally induces children and others to treat
them gently. But though the beetle is well known, I am not at all
certain that the larva or grub is recognised, at any rate by the gardening
world, as a valuable friend. I remember once at a dinner of scientific
men, supposed to know something of animal life, that during toast time,
out of some flowers near me, one of these larvae fell on the white table¬
cloth. I noticed our friend at once ; but several were ready to give the
“ happy dispatch ” to him, had I not interposed and begged them to
“ make a note ” of him as one of our most useful insects. All declared
they had never seen a similar creeping' thing before, and yet though by
no means so commonly seen as the ladybird itself, the larvae are common
enough.

Like the larva of the Lacewing fly, illustrated in the Journal of
Horticulture December 7th (page 517) the larva of the ladybird runs
no risk of being mistaken for a grub, caterpillar, or maggot, as it has six
legs and is quick and lively in motion. Danger, however, hangs over it,
because moat gardeners prefer to see their plants without any insect life
upon them at all, and are apt to visit insect intrusion as a sufficient
reason for death. There is, alas I in a jury of gardeners but slight
prospect of “ a recommendation to mercy ” for any living creature when
seen on a petted specimen plant ; yet that is just the very place where
a gardener, with knowledge of its habits of life, would place one of these
larvge if he found one wandering about. The larvm are chiefly seen
near the ends of shoots, where they know their food is to be found ;
often a curled up leaf is their haunt.

In colour these larvse are generally a blackish-grey, irregularly spotted.
The head is comparatively very large, they have six legs, and the binder

fig. 85. — LADYBIRDS AND THEIR LARViE.

A, The larva or grub; n B, the pupa or chrysalis; C, the Seven-spot Lady-bird
(natural size), and one of the smaller size, many-spotted.

part of the body, the abdomen, projects considerably beyond these legs.
They are very active, and quickly reconnoitre the country in search of
their prey. It is but right to say that some naturalists assert that some
varieties of these larvse feed on leaves of plants, but these are excep¬
tions, and the plants they feed on are the Briony and common Heath ;
and, restricting themselves to this diet, they cannot be called enemies
to the gardening class. The beetle commonly called ladybird or lady-
cow is well known in the ordinary variety, the larger seven spots and
smaller two spots of black on the red wing-cases, but the sorts I have
found most frequently on the Chrysanthemum are nmall, black with
many red spots, and dull yellow, also many spotted.

The pupa or chrysalis might often be mistaken for a piece of earth
or mud fastened to a leaf ; It is almost a flattened g’obe with one side of
the circle thus formed cut off. Sometimes we find it hanging to a leaf.
By many it would be considered far from ornamental, and in removing
it it would probably give way, and not till then would they th’nk that it
was some form of life. It is in this stage and that of the larva that
the gardening world need to know and protect them. The larva, pupa,
and developed insects are depicted in the illustration fig. 85.

“ Knowledge is power.” This is a truth that touches us in every
position in life. It may be a hackneyed phrase, but it is none the less
true, and as far as the aphis pest is concerned, did we know how to
increase these three friends of our gardens at will, we might defy the aphis
hosts, rapid as is their development. As we cannot do this, let us at
least learn to know these helpers when we see them, and not lessen
their numbers in our ignorance.— Y. B. A, Z.

B60

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ DMtmber 18, 1893.

A NOTE ABOUT GLADIOLI.

Apeopos of “ -D,, Deal's," remarks in your last number (page 551)
giving his experience in the culture of these beautiful flowers, 1 would
like to add mine. I grow only Lemoine’s hybrids, both early and lately
issued varieties, and have done so for the last ten years. I noticed
that during the hot weather of last summer my plants flagged and
stood still ; the flowers that came out were poor, but after the rains
came the plants grew apace, and produced some good spikes. Nevertheless,
on the whole the spikes were fewer than usual, and the flowers smaller.
They grew till very late in the season, and I did not complete taking
up my bulbs till the beginning of December. The bulbs, however, were
the finest I have ever had, and mostly in splendid condition.

I do not know the disease referred to by Gladiolus growers, as I have
never seen any fungus amongst my bulbs. I find it is important to
change the bed every year, as they do best in new soil, and that a
medium loam, which will hold moisture, gives better results than light
warm soil. My experience is that 20° of frost continued will kill any
Gladioli left in the ground without protection, but that 3 inches of spent
hops, or 4 to 6 inches of hedge cuttings or Asparagus tops, or such like
refuse is an efficient protection, and that bulbs planted in December or
January, and thus protected, will do better than those kept out of the
ground till March. I therefore do feel that “ D., Deal's," experiences
this winter in leaving his bulbs in the ground will, if he will give
them slight protection, lead him to continue the practice in future
winters. — Alexindee Wallace, Colchester.

NEW MINIATURE VIOLAS.

These very interesting dwarf-growing Violas are fast coming to the
front, and most deservedly so, and for them we are indebted to Dr.
Stuart of Chirnside through his seedling miniature variety “ Violetta ” in
the first place, and for other seedlings of the same type since introduced.
We are also specially indebted to Mr. George Steel, late of Heatherslaw,
and now of Etal, Cornhill-on-Tweed, for so perseveringly working with
this section, and raising so many pretty seedlings, some of which will
be sent out in the spring. Hitherto, Mr. Steel has cultivated a general
collection of the best Violas, but he has now discarded all excepting the
miniature section, so as to be able to devote more attention to this
charming type, and working for rayless varieties. Having seen flowers
of his various seedlings to be sent out I am able to speak confidently
about them.

Of the miniature section, it will be as well to say for the guidance of
those who have not grown them, that they produce an abundance of
small, neatly formed flowers, generally with a strong Violet perfume ;
grow close to the ground, and are of compact spreading habit, and
the flowers are ray less — that is, free from rays or dark markings in the
centre of the flowers, the attainment of which I was the first to advocate
years ago, and have persistently worked for, but we have as yet not
many of the larger section of Violas entirely free from it. The following
new varieties of miniatures raised by Mr. Steel will be in the hands of
various florists in the spring for distribution.

Ethel Horsfall, — Delicate clouded lilac, of pretty form, and very
fragrant.

Steeli. — This, when the blooms were sent to me, I described as a
miniature of miniatures ; the lower petals are light yellow, the top
petals cream coloured, entirely rayless, and a charming variety.

Ethel Buchley. — Deep heliotrope colour, with a deep orange eye, and
very pretty.

Pare Love. — Similar in colour to Ethel Horsfall, but smaller, and
very pretty.

Princess May. — Delicate lilac, with a yellow blotch underneath the
eye ; a small, well-formed flower, very fragrant and pretty.

Beauty of Heather slaie. — Light yellow, the lower petals a little
deeper in colour, of good substance and form, and quite rayless ; a
charming variety.

Picco. — Creamy white with a narrow edging or border of lavender,
and with a small yellow eye and distinct.

Miss Isa. — Lavender-tinted blue, distinct and pretty.

Mabel. — A pretty flower ; white slightly flushed with cream, and
uite rayless. — W. D.

THE APPLE BLOSSOM WEEVIL

(Anthonomus pomoeum).

This insect very frequently causes much harm to the Apple and
Pear crops, and in the last few years its injuries have much increased in
fruit-producing districts, and have been often attributed to the cater¬
pillars of the winter moth. Close examination of the blossoms, how¬
ever, would show that the larvae, or little yellow maggots, of the weevil
were in the centres of the flowers, destroying their powers of fructifica¬
tion, though at the same time caterpillars might be feeding upon the
blossoms and leaves. The action of this weevil upon the fruit blossoms
of Apple and Pear tree^s is also mistaken for the effects of white frosts,
when the petals have become brown or rust coloured ; but if the
blossoms are closely inspected, either the little yellow pupa of the
weevil will be found in them, or a little round hole in the side of
the withered flower bud will be noticed, showing that the perfected
weevil has cut its way out of its cradle.

Incredible damage is often caused by this weevil in Apple and
Pear orchards in France. In some Departments syndicates of defence

against it have been formed (“ Syndicate de d6fense centre I’Antho-
nome ”), consisting of a committee in each Commune, to carry out a
series of operations calculated to destroy this dangerous enemy, as it is
felt that it is only by united action among cultivators that injurious
insects of this and other kinds can be stamped out.

Desceiption.

The Apple blossom weevil is very small, only the fourth of an inch
long, and the eighth of an inch in breadth. It is reddish or chestnut-
brown, with down or pubescence of a greyish hue upon its body.
Occasionally specimens are found almost pitchy in colour. The wing
cases have pale marks upon them below the middle. There is a con¬
spicuous white mark, or scutellum, at the base of the wing cases. The
legs are reddish ; the thighs of the first (or anterior) pair are large, and
furnished with a formidable tooth on each ; the feet, or tarsi, are of a
darker colour. The rostrum, or snout, is the most remarkable feature,
being half as long as the body, slightly curved, with antennae near its
extremity furnished with oval clubs having four joints.

Like many other weevils it falls down when disturbed, tucks in lits
legs and snout, and remains motionless, feigning death until the danger
has passed.

Life Histoey.

In the first warm days of spring the weevils issue from their winter
retreats, and find their way to the Apple and Pear trees. Some
authorities consider that the females seldom use their wings, and that
only the males fly freely. Others hold that both sexes fly equally well.

The female, either by flying or crawling, finds its way to the blossom
buds of Apple and Pear trees, and boring a hole either with its snout,
as Curtis and others affirm, or, according to some observers, with a
stylet placed at the end of its body, it places one egg within each bud,
and carefully closes up the hole. A female lays from fifteen to twenty
eggs, but places one only in each flower bud. The process of laying one
egg takes about three-quarters of an hour. The egg is yellowish and
oval. Authorities agree that oviposition in an individual female may
extend over a fortnight at least. The eggs are hatched in from five to
nine days.

The larva, or maggot, is without feet, and is about the third of an
inch long. It is wrinkled, and white at first, gradually becoming
yellowish. It has a brown head, with two little brown spots on the
first segment. It lies in the bud in a curved form, and attacks the
stamens and pistils, but rarely touches the ovary. It soon causes the
petals to wither ; the flower bud changes to a rusty hue, and decays.

The larva in from eight to ten days turns into a pupa, which is
nearly a quarter of an inch long, of a yellow colour, with a long beak or
rostrum, and feet folded on the under side of its body. This state lasts
for about ten days, when the weevil appears, and escapes through a hole,
which it bores in the petals.

After this, the weevils live among the leaves of the fruit trees. It is
not known whether they feed upon their leaves. A French savant.
Dr. Henneguy, concludes from careful observation that they do not feed
at all, but live upon a reserve of fat, cor2)s graisseux, stored up in their
bodies during their previous state. They are not seen after the end of
September, retiring for hibernation to chinks in the bark of Pear and
Apple trees, also in lichenous and mossy growths upon their branches,
as well as under stones and rubbish beneath and around the trees, and
in other similar refuges. They probably also pass the winter under the
bark of other trees, as they have been found upon Oaks in the summer.

ClKCUMSTANCES OP THE ATTACK.

According to natural instinct, the weevils do not appear until the
weather is mild and the flower buds have begun to swell. If the season
is and continues warm and growing, the effects of the attack are usually
of a slight character. But should the weather be cold and changeable,
as is so often the case in Great Britain and the north and western
parts of France, the flower buds are slowly developed, and the weevils
consequently have time to lay their full complement of eggs, whose
period of hatching is accomplished before the flowers are fully evolved.

Varieties of Apple trees which blossom very early and very late are
more likely to escape the attacks of the weevil than those of the main
crop whose blossom comes late in May in ordinary seasons.

Methods op Peevention, and Remedies.

One mode of prevention is to spray the limbs and branches of Apple
trees, between October and February, with a solution of sulphate of iron,
to destroy the lichens and mosses which serve as harbours for this weevil
and other insects. One pound of sulphate of iron should be put to one
gallon of water. This can be thrown up over the trees by means of a
garden engine with a powerful pump.

Lichens and mosses upon fruit trees may be killed by throwing up
freshly slaked powdered lime over the branches in damp weather in
winter. This can be done by men having tin scoops, like small flour
scoops, fastened upon long poles.

All long grass, leaves, and rubbish should be cleared away under¬
neath fruit trees on grass land, and on cultivated land it would be
useful to apply lime, lime ashes, or lime and soot, and dig it in around
the trees.

Assuming that Curtis, Schmidberger, and others are correct in their
belief that the female weevils cannotfly, or rather do not care to exercise
their power of flight, greased or tarred bands of paper put round the
fruit trees wouid prevent their ascent.

It wou’d be w ell to adopt the practice of orchardists in Brittany, who

©aoember 28, 1893.]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

681

take ofE the rough bark of the trunks and large branches of the fruit
trees with scrapers, and brush every part with stiff carpet brushes.
They place cloths round the tree to catch the pieces of bark and the
weevils that are dislodged ; these are collected and burnt. Sometimes
limewash is put on the trees after the scraping. Others apply com¬
positions of lime and naphthaline or petroleum.

Limewashing the trees is not effective against insects unless the
rough bark is cleared off, and the limewash thoroughly worked into
every cranny while it is fresh.

It is most difficult to use insecticides, and insectifuges, with advantage,
as compositions that are strong enough to kill or drive away the weevils
would probably injure the tender buds. After the larva is within the
bud it is hopeless to attempt to reach it.

A m<^e of decreasing the number of weevils adopted in France
consists in shaking the branches to make the insects fall on to cloths
spread below. Cloths — old rick-cloths being best — are cut and arranged
so as to fit close round the trunks of the trees. Labourers get into the
trees and shake the branches violently, and others, with the aid of long
poles with hooks at the ends, .shake the branches within reach. The
cloths are quickly swept with brooms, and the debris and the weevils are
shovelled into sacks. This must be done rapidly, before the weevils can
fly away. It is said that four men and two boys treated 110 trees in a
day in this manner.

From experiments made, it has been found necessary to perform this
operation two or three times on each tree, as all the weevils are not
shaken off at once. From a tree, for instance, from which at the first
shaking 1000 weevils had fallen, 385 were shaken off five hours later.
In one orchard of 8 acres, having 347 trees, nearly 450,000 weevils were
destroyed in three days, at a cost of £1. A satisfactory crop of Apples
was obtained.

It should be pointed out that this operation must be carried out
before the weevils have laid their eggs, and upon their first appearance,
commencing with the earliest varieties.

This mode of destroying the Apple blossom weevils might be advan¬
tageously practised in Great Britain. It might also be useful in case of
attacks of winter moth and other caterpillars. It need hardly be pointed
out that the fruit growers in districts should combine to wage war in
this fashion simultaneously, and with care and energy. — {Board of
Agriculture.')

WOKK-FoutoeWEEK.. S

^^1

HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

Protectlngr Outdoor Plgr Trees. — In all but the most favourably
situated positions Fig tiees require protection frum the severest frosts.
A ready method of insuring the safety of trees on walls is to unfasten
the whole of the branches, tying them compactly together in bundles ;
and when severe frosts are imminent dry bracken or straw may be
packed over them also, enclosing the main stem, which needs protection
equally with the branches. Archangel mats nailed over all will make
everything neat and tidy.

Heading: Down Fruit Trees for Craftlngr.— Large-limbed fruit
trees, which it is intended to graft in the spring with scions of better
varieties, should now be headed down to points within a short distance
of the junction of the branches with the main stem, leaving, however, a
sufficient length to each stump so that a portion may be removed at
grafting time, the bark adjoining a new cut working easier than that
around an old one.

Preserving- Scions for Grafting. — During the operation of
pruning Apple and Pear trees well-ripened portions of the current year’s
wood may be selected for furnishing scions, laying them nearly the
whole of their length in trenches made in a cool, shady position, where
they will remain dormant until wanted. It is essential that the scions
be cut before the least swelling of the buds takes place, and they are
best secured in mild weather during the next few weeks.

Hints on Winter Planting Fruit Trees. — There are many
favourable opportunities when young new trees may be planted or
specimens of several years’ growth removed from one part of the garden
to another. The best time is just when the leaves fall, but it is not
always possible to accomplish the work then, and if carefully done now
there is no reason why trees should not thrive afterwards. They will
do so if the most important rules laid down for planting are strictly
followed. The weather should be mild and comparatively dry in order
that the soil may work easily without clinging tenaciously to the boots
of the workman, or render his spade difficult to use. Soil in this state
may be placed about the roots without fear. Its friability may be
increased by mixing with it a small portion of dry wood ashes, which
will favour the healing of the roots and an early commencement of
root action. All broken roots must be cut smooth, and secure staking
adopted along with the planting, afterwards a mulch of fairly short and
dry littery manure will prevent the entry of frost. Newly planted
trees ought not at the present time to be watered. The soil is moist
enough in all cases, and quite sufficient for the requirements of roots in
an inactive state.

IVIanurlng Bush Fruit. — After the pruning of these is completed
and the prunings cleared away, spread a coating of half-decayed
farmyard manure under and between the bushes that need the dressing,
lightly forking it into the ground wherever such is not occupied with
roots. The soil immediately under the branches is, in well established
bushes, mostly crowded with masses of fibrous roots which ought to be
left undisturbed. Merely spread the manure over them, leaving it to
decay, but, if desirable, it may be covered with a thin coating of soil.
Gooseberry bushes that have been badly affected with caterpillars in
summer ought, if practicable, to have the surface soil removed a couple
of inches from under the spread of the branches, which will clear away
the pupae of caterpillars in hiding there for the winter. Such soil
should be deeply buried between the bushes in the spaces free from roots,
accompanied with a dressing of lime. If not convenient to remove the
soil make the ground white with lime. The soil from the trench mixed
with some short manure can be spread over the roots.

Dressing- Fruit Trees. — Allowing insects and parasitical growths
to infest fruit trees soon brings them into an enfeebled condition. Those
pests which infest the branches and stems and once fairly established
are always more or less in evidence if means to check them are not
continually waged, Winter is the best time to carry on the work of
insect eradication.

Moss and Lichens. — To rid trees of these incrustations, lime used
in conjunction with soot and sulphur is a good destroyer. In preparing
a mixture of this kind add to four parts of hot lime two parts of soot
and three of sulphur, mixing all together in strong soapsuds to the
consistency of paint. On applying this with a brush to all affected
parts of trees it will not only destroy the (growths referred to, but
insects concealed in the bark as well. Previously, however, the
thickest of the growths should be carefully scraped off either with a
wooden spatula or piece of hoop iron, being cautious not to injure the
bark. The soda and potash mixture recommended on page 522 is
excellent for cleansing the branches of fruit trees or bushes.

American Blight and Scale. — These insects require the use of strong
and persistent measures to fully exterminate them from fruit trees. An
emulsion of softsoap and petroleum at the rate of a wineglassful of
the latter to a gallon of water in which 3 ozs. of softsoap has been
dissolved will destroy all the insects it reaches. Combine the oil
and soapy water with a force pump, applying it to the trees at a
temperature of 100°. Badly infested trees ought first to be well washed
with a stronger solution of softsoap, not less than 4 ozs. to the gallon,
using it at the same temperature. If numerous, the scale insects should
be scraped off with a blunt edged piece of wood, the trees afterwards
being brushed or syringed with the emulsion.

FRUIT FORCING.

Vines. — iarliest Forced in Pots. — The Vines started early in
November in bottom heat are making rapid progress, growth having
been freely produced and root action excited in consequence of the leaf
development, which should be encouraged by top-dressings of artificial
manures and supplies of water not less in temperature than that of the
bed. The fermenting materials must not be allowed to decline in heat
at this critical stage, augmenting them as required to maintain a
temperature of 70° to 75° about the pots. It is a good plan to keep a
heap of leaves and stable litter in reserve, from which supplies may be
drawn as required. Particular attention must be given to the ventila-
lation, avoiding chills, such as those resulting from cold currents of air,
supplying the Vines with cold water. Disbud and tie down before the
shoots touch the glass, not being in too great a hurry in stopping, nor
restricting to a certain number of joints beyond the bnnch where there
is room. Yet there ought to be two, as well-developed foliage is
essential to the proper swelling and finishing of the Grapes. Avoid
overcrowding the foliage and overcropping by removing superfluous
bunches as soon as choice can be made of the best. Maintain a night
temperature of 60° to 65°, 70° to 75° by day artificially, so as to secure
steady progress, and as the flowers open keep a rather drier atmo¬
sphere. Otherwise damp the paths two or three times a day, and where
fermenting materials are not employed, sprinkle the floors occasionally
with liquid manure.

Planted~out Vines Started Early in December. — Where the house
was closed at the beginning of this month the Vines will have started
to grow. The temperature should be gradually raised so as to have
it 60° to 65° at night when they come into leaf, 70° to 75° by day in
mild weather, but 65° is more suitable when the weather is dull and
cold. Air must be given judiciously, as cold currents cripple the foliage
irreparably, yet moderate ventilation is essential to sturdy growth and
well-developed leaves. As the foliage enlarges root action will be pro¬
moted, and it should be accelerated by supplying top-dressings of
phosphatic manure, as bone superphosphate, say 4 ozs. per square yard.
Defer disbudding until the bunches show in the points of the shoots,
and allow these to grow up towards the glass. The growths also
should be allowed to make two joints at least beyond the show of fruit
before stopping, pinching off the points when the leaves at the stopping
point are about the size of a halfpenny, remaving laterals at the same
time. Supply water when needed to the inside border at a temperature
of 5° higher than the mean of the house. If the roots are partly out¬
side, the border must be effectively protected from frost, and where they
are entirely outside fermenting materials will materially assist root
action and a steady supply of nutrition, but once used they must be
added to from time to time to maintain the heat uniform at a tempera¬
ture of 70° to 75° at the surface of the soil. This may be ascertained by
plunging a thermometer with the bulb level with the base of the

682

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ December S8, 1893.

fermenting material. Damp the paths and borders two ot 'three times
a day, sprinkling the Vines occasionally, but avoid excessive syringing
or a confined moist atmosphere, as it only favours aerial roots from the
rods to the prejudice of proper root activity.

Houses to Afford Ripe Grapes in June — The Vines that are to supply
these (should be started at once. If the Vines are planted inside, the
outside borders should be protected with a thickness of leaves sufficient
to exclude frost ; but the Vines being planted outside, the border will be
advantageously covered with fermenting material, two parts leaves and
one part stable manure, both as fresh as possible, mixed, and put cn
so as to maintain a temperature at their base of 60° to 65°, and 70° to
75° when the Vines start into growth. Supply the inside border
with water at a temperature of 60° to 65°, bringing it into an evenly
moist but not saturated condition. Fuel may be economised by the free
use of fermenting materials placed inside the house, turning a portion
of them daily, and adding fresh as needed, so as to maintain a genial
warmth, and the giving off of ammonia-charged moisture. This will
also lessen the necessity for damping ; otherwise, damp the house and
Vines two or three times a day when the weather is bright. In dull
weather sprinkling the floor once or twice ]a day will be ample. The
temperature should be 50° to 55° by artificial means and 65° from sun
heat. Yourg Vines or canes will need depressing to the horizontal
line or lower, to insure their breaking regularly to the base.

Houses frim which the Grapes Hare been Cut. — The Vines should
be pruned as soon as possible, as when this is deferred beyond the turn
of the days bleeding is more or less liable to follow, but to a plump bud
or eye as near to the main stem as practicable. Vines in good condition
will give fruit enough when pruned to one bud ; but where this has not
been the case, or the bunches were too small in previous years, the
bearing shoots (called laterals) may be shortened to two buds, or left
longer if those are not round and plump. This will cause the spurs to
become long in course of time, but it is easy to encourage growth from
the base and cut the old spurs away, or train up young canes for the
displacement of the old rods. All loose bark should be stripped off,
especially on the spurs, no attempt at scraping being made, and the
Vines washed with tepid softsoap and water (3 ozs. softsoap to a gallon
of water). This is all that is necessary if the Vines are clean, otherwise
follow with an approved insecticide. Cleanse the house thoroughly.
Limewash the walls, adding a handful of flowers of sulphur to each
pailful of limewash. Remove the loose surface soil or remains of
mulchings, and supply fresh turfy loam, and sprinkle over it 4 to 8 ozs.
per square yard of this mixture : — Three parts steamed bonemeal, two
parts sulphate of potash, and one part ground gypsum, mixed. The
house should be kept cool, but if utilised for plants the temperature
artificially should not exceed 45°, as the Vines will be excited in a mean
temperature of 50°, and that is fatal to complete rest. Plants only that
require safety from frost should be placed in vineries when the Vines
are dormant.

Late Houses. — A temperature of 45°, with a dry atmosphere, should
be maintained in houses where Grapes are hanging. It will greatly
assist in securing an equable temperature to cover the roof with mats
or straw secured with tarred string. Some keep the Grapes in this way
on the Vines until March, but due provision is made for ventilation, it
being important to prevent the deposition of moisture on the berries,
for that causes the germination of the spot fungus spores, or its near
ally, the ripe rot fungus, and the berries speedily decay. The shade
also prevents black Grapes losing colour nearly so rapidly as those
exposed to strong light, and they do not lose weight to anything like
the same extent. Examine every bunch carefully and frequently,
removing all decayed berries. Ventilate the house on fine mornings,
and keep it closed with a little warmth in the pipes when the weather
is damp.

The better plan is to cut the Grapes, especially where they were
ripened comparatively early, placing the ends of the stems in bottles of
clear rain water secured in an inclined position so as to admit of the
fruit hanging clear of the bottles. Any dry room free from dust, and
where an equable temperature of 40° to.45° is maintained, will be a
suitable place. This will admit of the Vines being pruned and the
house cleaned. The Vines then have about a couple of months’ complete
rest before it is necessary to start them again.

1 . ,

m BEE-KEEPER.

APIAEIAN NOTES.

_ Bees in 1893.

The closing year has been much talked about as an extra¬
ordinary one for honey. There was, however, not a single day
throughout the whole year during which hives rose in weight more
than from 4 to 6 lbs. daily. I have known them rise in weight
10 lbs. daily for a week, and extra strong hives gather
from 14 lbs. up till 33 lbs. in one day. In all the records there is
not an instance of any hive reaching the weight many did in
1863, and in some subsequent years. Some of my hives have
never ceased breeding since August, and in most cases I see from
their movements that water gathering has commenced for another
year. One peculiar instance of the season is that bees hereabouts

never had an opportunity of gathering anything from Ivy. Ifc
used to flower with us in November, but this year very little was
in bloom.

Comb Building.

I have a number of queries to answer, but as tbe information
will be embodied in “ Hints for Beginners,” I will defer them till
the New Year. “ C. R.,” however, has one, among other questions,
“Why bees refuse to build combs during the season.” Although I
have never written a special article on the subject, I have from
time to time advised bee-keepers how to manage their stock to
meet the difficulty, and to prevent swarming before the hives are
filled. I cannot tell the reason bees will not build combs, but prefer
swarming from a half or two-thirds full hive, though I may tell
your readers that had my instructions been carried out disalppoint-
ment on that line would not have happened. The following is a
repetition of past instructions. Every colony intended as a stock
should have its hive filled with combs during September or
October, This prevents premature swarming if the queen is
youthful and prolific, and an excess of drone comb. Of course it
is understood that a full-combed hive can only be satisfactory with
the Lanarkshire ventilating floor. Where that is absent the
amount of decay in the combs is sometimes great, and is eaten out
by the bees, when invariably drone combs are substituted,
constituting a double loss to the bee-keeper. I have repeatedly
removed brood combs during the months of June and July,
substituting a frame having a narrow starter of foundation
only, and in a year hence these frames remained empty.
Although the seasons were good and supers were filled, yet the
bees did all that, and swarmed without building the combs in the
brood nest. It is stated Carniolans were the neglectful in
“ C. R.’s ” case, but in my own experience other varieties were as
guilty ; but why they in some instances refuse to work combs in
the places most essential to the bees’ well-being is beyond my
comprehension.

Spreading Brood.

This is another question. “ A. M.,” who has followed the advice
given by other writers in the way of spreading brood, now finds his
hives full of chilled brood, having failed to store surplus honey
during the summer. He is afraid of foul brood, and asks my
advice. I have from the first warned bee-keepers of the question¬
able practice as advised by inexperienced writers. Bee-keepers
who prefer to throw aside the good old Scottish methods of
managing bees, following the advice of book-learned bee-keepers,
must just take the consequences. The pages of the Journal of
Horticulture are open to all who care to give or ask for information,
and those who depend upon it will neither have chilled brood nor
foul brood in their hives, at least beyond an infected case, —
A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper.

•^•All correspondence should be directed either to “ The
Editor ” or to “ The Publisher.” Letters addressed to
Dr. Hogg or members of the staff often remain unopened
unavoidably. We request that no one will write privately
to any of our correspondents, as doing so subjects them to
unjustifiable trouble and expense.

Correspondents should not mix up on the same sheet questions
relating to Gardening and those on Bee subjects, and should
never send more than two or three questions at once. All
articles intended for insertion should be written on one side of
the paper only. We cannot reply to questions through the post,
and we do not undertake to return rejected communications.

To Correspondents, — As, in consequence of the Christmas holidays,
our offices were closed from Saturday to Wednesday, only those com¬
munications for which space was reserved could be inserted on Wednesday
morning ; also letters of inquiry which arrived after Saturday last cannot
be answered this week.

Tuberoses to Tlower In August (^Reader). — Pot the bulbs early
in March, and plunge in ashes in a cold frame. Placing a single strong
bulb in each 5-inch or slightly larger pot is preferable to starting them
in smaller pots, and shifting from these into larger ones. Use a rather
rich loamy soil, and pot firmly, only about three-parts burying the bulb.
Keep them in cold frames or pits, some being placed in the open air to
afford a good succession. All may not flower, but the bulk will produce
much stronger stems than will those grown in heat. Syringe frequently

December 28, 1893. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

583

in order to keep down red spider, give liquid manure when the pots are
well filled with roots, support the flower stems with stakes, and the
result will most probably exceed your expectations. Should, however,
they fad to expand early enough forward by means of gentle heat, the
plants Veing given a light position.

White Antirrhinum (^Reader'). — Your pan of well rooted cuttings
should be kept in a cool pit or frame for another six weeks, when they
ought to be placed thinly or not less than 3 inches asunder each way in
a box containing some loamy compost. Keep them under glass till well
rooted and growing strongly, when they should be hardened off and
planted where they are to flower next summer, the early part of May
being a good time to do this. If you have kept the variety well away
from any other Antirrhinum ard saved seed, the plants resulting from
this will almost probably closely resemble the parent plant. The seed
being ^own very early in the year, and the seedlings kept growing
vigourously, they will flower freely next summer and autumn.

Apple Cascolg-ne’s Seedling (//. F. B ). — You are quite right
in assuming that “ there are three Gascoigne’s Seedling Apples described
in ‘ British Apples,’ as having been exhibited at the National Apple
Congress, held in gardens of the Royal Horticultural Society some years
ago.” The one illustrated (fig. 86) is the best of them, and our descrip¬
tion of the Apple is as follows : — Fruit roundish ovate, very promi¬
nently ribbed towards the eye. Skin lemon coloured when ripe, marked
on the side next the sun with a crimson flush, and broken streaks of the

FIG. 86. — APPLE GASCOIGHE S SEEDLING.

same colour ; the base has a greenish-grey tinge and covered with a coat
of thin russet. Eye closed, with incurved convergent segments set in a
deep angular basin. Stamens basal : tube conical. Stalk upwards of
an inch long, inserted in a deep funnel-shaped cavity. Flesh white,
crisp, juicy, and briskly flavoured, with a pleasant aroma. Cells
obovate, axile, or somewhat abaxile. Is a very handsome Apple indeed,
and may be used for dessert or culinary purposes.

Winter Condition of Black riy ((7. IF,). — The black aphis
(A. cerasi) lives through the winter on the young growths of Cherry
trees under favouring climatic conditions, or in glass houses, and some¬
times in warm situations outdoors. These continue to increase parthe-
nogenetically under such circumstances for a number of years. This
process of reproduction by gemmation or budding is distinct from that
by eggs. These eggs consist of the outer wall or vitelline membrane,
which is practically weather-proof, the yolk or vitellus, the germ vesicle,
and germ spot. All these parts are easily determined anatomically, but
it is extremely difficult to refer the egg under examination to the
species. The eggs you have sent appear to be those of the Cherry or
black aphis, the nucleus being well developed and spreading, so that
they will presently become dark brown or black, and in due course the
outer wall or shell will crack at the germ spot, and the virgin aphides
emerge. The eggs (true) are produced by winged females at the end of
the summer or n autumn, generally pale or yellow at first, but ultimately
turning black.

irames of Plants. — We only undertake to name species of plants,
not varieties that have originated from seed and termed florists’ flowers.
Flowering specimens are necessary of flowering plants, and Fern fronds
should bear spores. Specimens should arrive in a fresh state in firm boxes.
Slightly damp moss, soft green grass or leaves form the best packing,
dry wool the worst. Not more than six specimens can be named at
once, and the numbers should be visible without untying the ligatures,
it being often difficult to separate them when the paper is damp.
(^Amatem-'). — Coprosma Baueriana variegata. (A. P. S'). — Cuphea
platycentra. (^Yorhs). — 1, Daphne indica ; 2, Cyperus alternifolius.
(t7. //.). — 1, Begonia Ingram! ; 2, B. manicata. (^Suhirian) . —
Asparagus decumbens.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIYED.

H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley. — Chrysanthemums.

Dickson & Robinson, Manchester. — Garden Seeds.

Dicksons, Limited, Chester. — Vegetable and Flower Seeds.

Dobbie & Co., Rothesay, Scotland. — Catalogue and Comgn-titors' Guide.
W. J. Godfrey, Exmouth, Devon. — Chr'ysanthcinums .

H. J. Jones, Ryecroft Nursery, Lewisham. — DescrigVive Catalogue
of Chrysanthemums.

Stuart & Mein, Kelso, Scotland. — Amateurs' Gardening Guide.

J. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea. — Catalogue of
Seedsand Horticultural longfements .

OOVENT GARDEN MARKET. — December 27th.

FRUIT.

The Christmas market was abundantly supplied and trade brisk.

s. d. 8. d.

d. 8. d

Apples, per bushel . , . .

2

6

to 9

0

Peaches, per doz .

0

0 to

0

0

Cobs .

40

0

42

6

Plums, per half sieve

0

0

0

0

Grapes per lb .

0

6

2

0

St. Michael Pines, each . .

2

0

6

0

Lemons, case .

10

0

15

0

VEGETABLES.

B.

d.

s.

d.

s.

d.

8.

d.

Beans, Kidney, per lb. . .

0

3

to 0

4

Mustard and Cress, punnet

0

2 to

0

0

Beet, Red, dozen .

1

0

0

0

Onions, bunch . .

0

3

0

0

Carrots, bunch .

0

4

0

6

Parsley, dozen bunches . .

2

0

3

0

Cauliflowers, dozen . . . .

2

0

3

0

Parsnips, dozen .

1

0

0

6

Celery, bundle .

1

0

1

3

Potatoes, per cwt .

2

0

4

fi

Ooleworts, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Salsafy, bundle .

1

0

1

5

Cucumbers, dozen . . . .

3

0

7

0

Scorzonera, bundle . .

1

6

0

0

Endive, dozen .

1

3

1

6

Shallots, per lb .

0

3

9

U

Herbs, bunch . . . . , .

0

3

0

0

Spinach, bushel .

8

0

0

0

Leeks, bunch .

0

2

0

0

Tomatoes, per lb .

0

3

0

7

Lettuce, dozen .

0

9

1

0

Turnips, bunch .

0

4

0

G

Mushrooms, punnet .. ..

0

9

1

0

AVERAGE WHOLESALE PRICES.— OUT FLOWERS.

Orchid Blooms in variety . Chrysanthemum, blooms very plentiful this season, hence
the price is very low.

8.

d.

8.

d

8.

d.

8.

d.

Arum Lilies, 12 blooms ..

4

0

to 6

0

Narciss, White (French),

Azalea, dozen sprays . . . .

1

0

1

6

dozen bunches .

2

0

to 3

0

Bouvardias, bunch .. ..

0

6

1

0

Orchids, per dozen blcoms

3

0

12

0

Camellias, dozen blooms ..

1

0

3

0

Pelargoniums, 12 bunches

6

0

12

0

Carnations, 12 blooms

1

6

3

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

Chrysanthemums, dozen

bunches .

4

0

S

0

bunches .

2

0

6

0

Primula (double), dozen

Chrysanthemums, doz. bis.

0

6

2

0

sprays .

0

6

1

0

Eucharis, dozen .

4

0

6

0

Pyrethrum, dozen bunches

2

0

4

0

Gardenias, per dozen

2

0

4

0

Roses (indoor), dozen

0

6

1

6

Hyacinth, Roman, dozen

„ Tea, white, dozen . .

1

0

2

u

sprays .

0

6

1

0

„ Yellow, dozen .. ..

0

4

0

Lilac (French) per bunch

3

6

6

0

Roses, Safrano (French),

Lilies of the Valley, dozen

per dozen .

0

9

1

6

sprays .

2

0

4

0

Roses, Safrano (French),

Lilium longiflorum, per

per 100 .

1

6

3

0

dozen .

6

0

9

0

Tuberoses, 12 blooms, . . .

0

4

0

6

Maidenhair Fern, dozen

Violets, Parme (French),

bunches .

4

0

6

0

per bunch .

3

0

5

0

Marguerites, 12 bunches . .

2

0

4

0

Violets, Czar (French), per

Mignonette, 12 bunches ..

3

0

6

0

bunch .

2

0

3

0

Narciss, Yellow (French),

Violets (English), dozen

dozen bunches .

2

0

4

0

bunches . .

1

6

2

0

PLANTS

IN POTS.

8.

d.

s.

d.

8.

d.

s.

d.

Arbor Vitse (golden) dozen

6

0 to 12

0

Foliage plants, var., each. .

2

Oto 10

0

Aspidistra, per dozen

18

0

36

0

Hyacinth, Roman, dozen

Aspidistra, specimen plant

5

0

10

6

pots .

12

0

18

0

Chrysanthemums, per doz.

4

0

9

0

Lilium Harrissi, per dozen

12

0

24

0

„ large plants, each

1

0

2

0

Lycopodiums, per dozen . .

3

0

4

0

Dracaena terminalis, per

Marguerite Daisy, dozen . .

6

0

12

0

dozen .

18

0

42

0

Mignonette, per doz .

6

0

9

0

Draorena viridis, dozen . .

9

0

24

0

Myrtles, dozen .

6

0

9

0

Ericas, per dozen

9

0

18

0

Palms, in var., each .. ..

1

0

15

0

Euon vmus , var., dozen . .

6

0

18

0

„ (specimens) . . . .

21

0

63

0

Evergreens, in var., dozen

6

0

24

0

Pelargoniums, scarlet, doz.

6

0

9

0

Ferns, in variety, dozen . .

4

0

18

0

Poinsettia, per dozen . . . .

12

0

15

0

Ferns (small) per hundred

4

0

6

0

Solanums, per dozen.. .,

9

0

12

0

Ficus elastica, each .. ..

1

0

7

6

SOME LESSONS OF THE YEAR.

The year draws to a close; its span of time will soon be
complete ; in a few days it will be numbered with the past ; but
its lessons— clear, incisive, and unmistakeable — will remain with
us, and of all things which the old year leaves behind they will
prove the most valuable if their meaning is fully grasped—
their teaching applied to the correction of specific faults, to
the improvement of practice in farm management generally.

Failures — those dear-bought lessons of adversity which,
taken aright, are stepping stones to success, have sprung
primarily from two causes — imperfect autumn tillage and

684

[ December 28, 1893.

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

poverty of soil ; secondarily from drougflit. We say this plainly,
with a distinct comprehension of the general opinion that
drought, and drought only, was the cause of crop failure in
hay, corn, and roots. Bat close observation on our long
journeys, the inspection of imany farms in different parts of
the country, and the results of our own practice has shown
that the effect of the drought was very much in proportion to
the condition of the land. Of corn crops. Wheat sown early on
good sound land was entirely satisfactory in ear, the only effect
of the drought being visible in a certain dwarfing of straw
growth. Late-sown Wheat on poor land was, on the contrary,
a decidedly inferior crop. Where the land was clean and
ridged in autumn the sowing of spring coi'n was, as usual, done
early, and done well. The fine seed bed gave a full even plant,
the manure drilled in with the seed gave vigorous growth,
which had such a good and early start that Oats were a mag¬
nificent crop, decidedly superior to the best of the Barleys.

Compare this, as we have done repeatedly, with spring corn
sown on poor land, ploughed late in spring under great diffi¬
culties, in so rough a seed bed that the plant was most uneven,
some coming up so long before the other that, as harvest time
drew on, there were patches of ripe and green corn all over the
fields. Worse than this, much of it found so little sustenance
in the poverty stricken soil that it dwindled and died. Many
a corn field have we seen the miserable growth of which —
unworthy to be termed a crop — ought never to have b6en left
to ripen, but should have been folded off with sheep in its
green state.

Root crops were affected very much in the same way. With
the drought setting in so early in March, it was evident that
special treatment was an imperative necessity if we would have
a useful crop There was the land ridged the proper width in
autumn for Mangolds and early Swedes, so it was left till the
end of March ; then the farmyard manure was carted directly
from the heap to the furrows, where a double amount of it was
used to make certain that the plant should have plenty of
moisture, the ridges being split, and the seed sown at once,
only as much dung being carted daily as was required for that
day’s sowing. By this method the seed (sown deeper than
usual) had sufficient soil moisture to induce speedy germina¬
tion, the plant became quickly established in the mass of rich
moist humus, and passed through the drought with comparative
impunity. Where, on the other hand, the ploughing was done
late, only a mere scattering of manure being placed in the
furrows and no special effort made to meet the emergency,
there was a lamentable failure of plant and a proportionate
shortness of crop.

Poor pasture was practically bare all the summer. Live
stock suffered accordingly, and lean cattle were forced on the
market in such large numbers that prices were ruinously
low. On such land the hay crop is never a full one. This
year it was less than usual by five-sixths. For example a
grazier who last year made 60 tons of hay, this year had only
10 tons from the same area. Of course he and his neighbours
are loud in complaints ; would that they could be made to see
the folly of their negligence of the Und for which they pay
rent and get such miserable crops from. With land in good
heart, with fertility well sustained, and the annual dressing
of pure chemical manure applied in February, there was growth
early and strong, a good crop of hay, and it was only during
the weeks of extreme heat that the herbage ran short, to
come again with full vigour when the rain did come.

Never was there a summer in which the quick action of
that king of nitrogenous manures, nitrate of soda, was so useful.
A supply of it was kept in readiness, and advantage was taken
of the first steady downpour of rain to give a dre-sing of
about li cwt. to the acre on pasture becoming bare. The
effect was almost magical, so quickly and strongly did growth
follow. Gi’een Maize, too, must have notice for its splendid
growth and high value. Mention of it is a reminder of ths
outspoken opinion of dairy farmers of land all in pasture, that

mixed farming is safe farming ; that their difficulties would
have been much less if they could have had some green crops
and roots.

Earnestly do we hope that these and other lessons of the
year may lead to better practice, that their teaching may be
applied, that they may carry conviction into the mind of
every farmer, and lead to improvements which are so possible
and so much to be desired. Under judicious change we believe
entirely in the possibility o': a prosperous future for agri¬
culture in this country, but it is a matter that must be
considered with an open mind ; prejudice and the blind
following of custom must yield to the dictates of good sense.
When we hear of conferences for the discussion of help from
within, of thorough cultivation of the land, of a general
improvement in breeding and feeding live stock, of a common
standard of excellence for all land worthy of cultivation, of
sustained fertility of soil, of a thorough knowledge of the
comparative value and right use of manures, of the disposal
of farm produce in the most profitable manner, and of a
system of cropping and farm management adapted to require¬
ments of the times, then, indeed, shall we believe that farmers

“ Rise to higher things
On stepping stones of their dead selves.”

WORK ON THE HOME FARM.

On those estates where the horses of the home farm are used for the
clearance of timber or underwood advantage should be taken of all open
weather now for the carting, every effort being made to get through with
such work before spring. The carting of gravel for repairing farm
roads or carriage drives must also have attention, and if the gravel pit
is upon the estate see that there is a sound and easy road out of it. We
have had such roads of an easy gradient, but we have one now up which
no horse can draw a full load, and which, when the estate came under
our control, had deep wheel tracks, showing that no care had been
taken to keep it in repair or to improve it. The carters either went off
with half a load or horses had to undergo much brutality. A sound
road and a horse in trace harness at the pit set matters right.

Draining is now being got on with on land where many patches of
Rushes clearly indicated the presence of superfluous water. This pasture
has also much Carnation Grass and other poor herbage, and we must
have the draining finished in good time for a dressing of chemical
manure in February. A renovating mixture of strong growing grasses
will be sown, the superfluous soil from the drain spread over the pasture,
and the whole well rolled and bush-harrowed in due course. Pasture
generally is wonderfully firm to the foot for this season of the year, and
sheep folds are in full use upon as much of it as possible. We like a
large flock ; it enables us to keep down manure bills, sheep folding
being used everywhere that it can be managed. Herein lies the special
value of sheep, which gives them an advantage over all other stock, and
renders them indispensable to the farmer. Avoid folding pregnant ewes
on arable land ; never forget the heavy losses which have followed care¬
lessness in this matter, both from the strain made upon them in walking
about in the sea of mud to which the soil in such folds is often reduced
at this season of the year, but also from the chilling effects of the
consumption of large numbers of frosty Turnips.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Oamden Square, London.
Lat.51°32'40'' K. : Loa?. 0°8'0" W.: Altitude. Ill feet

Date.

9 A.M.

In the Day.

1893.

December.

55 '^-3
-S «

« c8 >

Hygrometer.

Direc¬
tion of

Temp,
of soil
at

1 foot.

Shade Tem¬
perature.

Radiation

Temperature

i

eS

PS

M « C«
CO ^ aj

CO dm

Dry.

Wet.

Wind.

Max.

Min.

In

Sun.

On

Grass.

Sunday ..

17

Inchs.

30-378

deg.

365

deg.

36-4

Calm

deg.

42-0

deg.

42-6

deg.

33-3

deg.

51-0

deg.

29-4

Inchs.

Monday . .

18

30108

40-5

39-4

S.E.

41-1

46-4

33-3

49-3

29-9

—

Tuesday . .

19

29-553

45-7

43-9

S.B.

41-5

48-9

41-2

57-7

35-3

0-216

Wednesday

20

28-065

42-7

41-4

S,

41-9

50-0

39-9

56-9

34-9

0-252

Thursday . .

21

29-490

36-1

34-3

s w.

41-3

43-2

34-3

60-1

29-6

—

Friday

22

29-856

41-9

40.0

s.w.

39-9

511

33-0

50-3

27-6

0160

Saturday . ,

23

30-164

38-3

38-1

s.w.

40-1

46-7

35-2

60-4

30-3

—

29 788

40 3

39-1

41-1

47-0

35-7

55-1

31-0

0-628

KEMARKS.

17th. — Fine and sunny till about 3 P.M., cloudy after.

18th.— Fair early, dull and misty from 9 A.M. to noon ; fair afternoon, bright evening.

19th. — Overcast early, occasional sunshine from 10 A.M. to noon ; continuous rain from
1.45 P.M. to 6 P.M., and showers later ; high wind in afternoon.

20th. — Rain from 7 to 9 A.M., and showers after; bright sun from 1 to 2 ®.M., then
overcast again, and heavy rain from 3 P .M. to 6 P.M. ; S.B. gale and squall, and
very low barometer in afternoon ; lunar halo at night.

21st. — Bright throughout, and brilliant night.

22nd.— Fair early, almost continuous from 9 A.M., with steady rain from 6 to 7 P.M.i
fine night.

23rd.— Fair early, bright day, but damp : cloudless but misty at night.

A damp week, with average temperature. Barometer very low, 28’565 inches at

5 P.M on 2 ith.— G. J. Sl'MONS. / A

«

i

1

1