LIBRARY

OF THE

" « }^-,

V , ... ,,

MASSACHUSETTS

AGRICULTURAL

COLLEGE

souRCETHys. Ijevi lj\T\Ctilnn
ex

/

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTURE,

B O T A 3M "ST ,

AND ALL USEFUL DISCOVERIES AND IMPROVEMENTS IN

RURAL AFFAIRS.

•' Je voiidi'ais ecliauffcr tout I'univers de mon gout pour les jardins. II me sembk-
qu'il est impossible c]u'uii niecWaiit pnisse I'avoir. II n'est point de vertus que je ne
suppose h celui que aiine h payler et a faire des jardins. Peres de famille, inspirea
la jardiuoinaiiie a vosenfans." — Prince De Ligne.

VOL. XVI.,
1850.

(vol. VI., NEW SERIES.)

Edited by C. M. HOVEY

BOSTON:
PUBLISHED BY HOVEY AND CO., MERCHANTS ROW.

1 850.

PEEFACE.

The Sixteenth Volume of the Magazine will be found as
interesting as any Avhich have preceded it. An unusual num-
ber of valuable original articles has appeared, upon all the
various departments of Gardening. The Pomological Intelli-
gence of the year will be found more full and complete than
we have ever before given.

In order to give a larger circulation to the Magazine, and
bring it Avithin the reach of a larger class of readers, the
price has been reduced to two dollars a year. Already we
are glad to record the good results of the change, and Ave trust
our labors will continue to enlist the aid of every friend of
Horticulture or Rural Improvement.

The following Table of Contents will show at a glance,
the variety of information in the Sixteenth Volume.

BGsio7i, Nov. 25, 1850.

CO]VTENTS.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

GENERAL SUBJECT.

A Retrosprcdve View of the Progress of
Horlicultuie in the United States, dur-
ing the year 1819. By the Editor . 1

Observations upon the treason of 1819,
with H Drier Review of some of the
more Remarkable Varieties of Fruit
which have been introduced or Exhi-
bited during the Year. IJy Hon. J. S.
Cabot, Salem, Mass , . . . .11

Notes on Gardens and Gardening in the
neighborhood of Boston. By R. B.
Leuchars, .New Haven . . . "19

Notice of some Plants of Lyniifield, Dan-
vers, Manchester, &c., d:c., Essex
County, Massachusetts. By John
Lewis Russell, Professor of Botany and
e getable Physiology to Massachusetts
Vo rticultural Society . . . .57

The North American Pomological Con-
vention, at Syracuse, N. Y. By the
Editor . . . . . . .107

Polmaise Method of heating Greeu-houses
and Hot-houses. By R. B. Leuchars,
Clifton Gardens, near Baltimore. 145. 24r)

Weeping 'I'rees, as Ornainents of f.awns
ami Pleasure Grounds. Bv the Editor 193

Production of Hybrids. By'P. . .241

The Curculio and Codling Moth ; their
habits, and the best means of prevent-
ing their ravai;es upon fruits. By M.
H. Simjison, Esq., Saxonville, Mass. 256

The Valley of Lake Cliamplain,— Its Cli-
mate, Productions, &.C. By Chauncey
Goodrich, Bm]., Burlington, Vermont 289

The May Bug or Brown Beetle, (Melolon-
tha.) By J. W. Tutlle, I'lattsburg,
N. y 293

Polmaise Method of heiling Green-houses

IV

CONTENTS.

and Hot-houscs, compared witli Hot-
warer, scientilically and practically
considered. 15y R. B. Leuchars 385. 436.

481

The Fruit Crop in Illinois ; Beautiful
Prairie Flowers; Fine Forest Trees;
Insects; Pear ami Apple Blislit. In a
Letter to Dr. E. \Viglit,Cor. Sec. Mass.
Hurt. .-^oc. Py Ur. .1. A. Kinnicott,
NorthfieKI, Illinois ....

Notes and Uecollcclions of a Visit to the
Nurseries of .Messrs. Hovey & Co.,
Cambridge. By Londoniensis

433

442

HORTICULTURE.

\ Chapter on Plantinii Trees. By Sam-
uel Walker, Esq., President of the
Massachusetts Horticultural Society 22

The Frederica Bremer Pear : a new na-
tive Seedlins, with some Account of
its Oriftin, and an eutfraviu!; of the
Fruit. By Ur. VV. D. Brinckle, Phil-
adelphia 24

The Diana Grape. By the Editor . . 23

Descriptions and Engravings of Select
Varieties of Apples. By the Editor

1. .lonathan, Esopus Sjiitzenberg,
Red Gillillower 60

2. Gravensteiu, Duchess of OUIen-
buryh, Tuas 493

Notes on some Varieties of Peas grown
in the Garden of tlie Horticidlural So-
cietv in lf:i9. By Robert Thompson,
Superintendent of the Orchard and
Kitchen Garden Department. From
the Journal of the London Horticultu-
ral Society 66

Pruning the Gooseberry. By Mr. Robert
Thompson, Superintendent ot the Or-
chard and Kitchen Garden Department
of the London Horticultural Society,
with Remarks by the Editor . . 114

Pomological Notices: or Notices respect-
ing new and superior Fruits, worthy
of general cultivation By the Editor 152

How" to Prune the Currant. By Robert
Thompson, Superintendent of the Or-
chard and Kitchen Garden Department
of the London Horticultural Society . 160

The Red Gillitlower and Cornish Gilli-
tiower Apples. By the Editor . . 198

IIow to Prune the CiuinceTree. By Mr.
R. Thompson, Superintendent of the
Orchard and Kitchen Garden Depart-
ment of the London Horticultural So-
ciety. From the Gardener's Chronicle 203

On the Cultivation of the High-bush
Blackberry ; with a Notice of the best
Wash for Fruit Trees. By Capt. Josi-
ah Lovett, Beverlv, Mass. . . . 261

(low to Prune the Apple. By R. Thomp-
son, Superintendent of the Orchard and
Kitchen Garden Department of the
London Horticultural Society. From
the Gardeners' Chronicle . . . 261

The Second Session of the Congress of
Fruit Growers at New York. By the
Editor 294

How to Prune the Filbert. By Mr. R.
Thompson, Superintendent of the Or-
chard and Kitchen Garden Department
of the London Horticultural Society.
From the Gardeners' Chronicle . . 306

Descriptions and Engravings of Select
Varieties of Pears. By the Editor

1. Beurr^ Langelier, Beurri Gou-
bault, Styrian, Belle Epine Dumas,
While Doyenne, Brown Beurr^ . • 337

Root-Pruning the Pear and other Fruit
Trees. From the Gardeners' Chronicle 351

Descriptions and Engravings of Select
Varieties of Cherries. By the Editor

1. Eltnn, Early Purple Guigne, Wer-
der's Early Black Heart . . .389

2. New large lilack Bigarrean, Belle

of Orleans, Klack Bigarrean of Savoy . 538

Remarks on Dwarfing Fruit Trees. By
R. Errington. With Uemarks, by the
Editor 393

Salt and Lime for the Curculio. By C.
Goodrich, Esq., Burlington, Vt. . . 447

Description of a New Seedling .Apple,
called Rough and Ready, with some
Account ol its llislory, and an Engrav-
ing of the Fruit. By Charles P. Cowles,
Esq., of Syracuse, N . Y. With a Note
by the Editor 450

Descriptions and Engravings of Select
Varieties o( Pluiris. By the Editor

1. .lefferson, Imperial Gage, Mac
Laughlin, Purple Favorite . . . 452

Observations on the Culture of Taxodi-
um sempervirens. By M. Desportes,
of M. Andre Leroy's Nursery, Angers,
France. 495

Hints respecting the Summer Treatment
of Fruit Trees. By an Old Fruit Culti-
vator 487

Descriptions and Engravings of three new
Varieties of Pears. By M. Desportes,
of .\I. Leroy's Nursery, Angers, France 489

PomologicalGossip. By the Editor, 34.70.
113. 164. 271. 313. .356. 402. 157. 497. 544

Some account of the production of the
Old Colonv Sweet Corn, its culture,
&c. By Rev. A. R. Pope, Somerville . 529

IIow to grow good Asparagus. By Dr.
Lindlev. From the Gardeners' Chron-
icle. ' 533

Some account of two new varieties of
Apples, with Engravings of the Fruit.
By the Editor 541

How to raise Isabella Grapes. From the
Maine Fartner 548

Notes on Gardens and Nurseries, 406. 461

FLORICULTURE.

Propagation ofPlants by Cuttinps. By
William Saunders, New Haven, Conn. 123

Troptpolum Lobbianum. By T., New
York 129

Heliotrope Souvenir de Liege,and Descrip-
tions of six new Cinerarias. By .lohn
Cadness, Commercial Gardens, Flush-
ing, L. 1 167

Some additional Remarks on Vaccinium
Vitis-Id.-ea. By John Lewis Russell,
Professor of Botany, Ac, to the Mas-
sachusetts Horticultural Society. . 169

Descriptive Account of fourteen New
and Beautiful Varieties of the Phlox.
By the Editor 172

Nemophila maculata. Bv the Editor . 174

The Culture of the C.iniellia. By Mr.
R. Errington. From Paxton's Magazine
of Botanv 307

CONTENTS.

Floricultiiral and Botanical Notices of
New and Beautiful Plants: witli de-
scriptions of those more recently intro-
duced to, or originated in, American
Gardens, .... 220. 31.7. 507

Descriptions of ten new Verbenas. By
the Kditor 275

Cult ivation of the Cyclamen. By Vanes-
sa 317

On the Cultivation of American Plants,
the Rhododendron, Azalea, ic. By

Messrs. Standish & Noble, BagKhot,
near London. From the Gardeners'
Chronicle. With Remarks by the Edi-
tor

Cultivation of Tr()pa;olums. By VV.
Saunders, Gardener to J. Hopkins,
Esq., Clidon Park, Baltimore

On the Cultivation of the Scarlet Pelar-
gonium in Pots, liy Philip Conway.
From the Journal of the London Hor-
ticultural Society 503

359

500

REVIEW.

The Farmer's Guide to Scientific and
Practical Agriculture. By Henry Ste-
phens, F. R. S. E., author of the Book
of the Farm, &c., &c., assisted by John

P. Norton, A. M., Professor of Scien-
tiflc .\griculture in Yale College, New
Haven. Nos. 1 to 8 . . . . 463

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

General Notices.
On the culture of Mignonette in Pots, 79 '
Gesnera zebrina, 131; Rosa Manetti as a
Rose Stock, 133; Calla .Tthiopica, as an
aquatic plant, 135 ; Pruning and Training
the Peach Tree, 13fi ; New mode of pre-
serving or transmitting to a distance, cut-
tings of plants, 177; Select Flower and
Kitchen Garden Seeds, 177; Remarks on
early flowering plants (or the Green-house,
180 ; Rare Conifera', and Improvements in
the Cairnies, in Perthshire, Scotland, 226.
372; On the culture of Bignonias, 231;
Forcing Flowers, 232; Pot culture ol Vines,
233 ; On the cultivation of Achiincnes, 234 ;
Green-house Plants, 277 ; Guano beneflcial
to American Plants, 278; Culture of the
Chrysanthemum, 279; Roses, 319; Ctrlti-
vatiou of the Strawberry for forcing, 320;
Culture of the Camellia, 321 ; List of Grass-
es, and their qualities for line lawns, 322;
The Stanwick Nectarine, 323; Culture of
the Chrysanthemum, 323; The Market
Gardens around London. 324 ; Materials
essential for potting i)lants, 326 ; The Deo-
dar Cedar, 327; Raising Oaks from seed,
327 ; Slocks for Conifernc, 328 ; Grape Rust,
328; The Tree Violet, 329; Botanical No-
menclature, 417; On the difference between
Geraniums and Pelargoniums, 419; Roses
and Pelargoniums which obtained the priz-
es, 421 ; The Round-leaved Bell-flower or
Harebell, 422; Common Flowers, 465 ; Cu-

phea platycentra, 466 ; Cultivation of spe-
cimen plants in 8 inch pots, 466; Coniferoe
in Scotland, 510; Culture of Kalosaihes
coccinea, 511 ; New and rare Roses of the
present jear, 512 ; On Pruning Roses, 514 ;
Pruning newly planted fruit trees, 515;
Remedy for the Mealy Bug, 51G ; Plumbago
Larpenias as an herbaceous plant, 516 ; Mr.
Saul's new method of budding roses, 517;
Hollyhocks, 517 ; Plums, 553 ; Pear Stocks,
554; The Plum as a pyramidal tree, 555 ;
Liquid Manure, 556; Wintering the Car-
nation, 566.

Foreign Notices.

England. — Dahlias and Dahlia Exhibitions
for 1850, 557.

Do.MEsTic Notices.
Spring Grove Cemetery, Cincinnati, 36 ; The
Ohio Fruit Convention, 37 ; Proceedings of
the New York Poniological Congress, 37;
Southern Iowa Horticultural Society, 37;
Munificent Bequest for Rural Improve-
ments, 33 ; The Isabella Grape, 81 ; Trans-
idanting large trees in winter. Hi ; Seedling
Pears in Vermont, 81 ; The Annual Exhi-
bition of the Massachusetts Horticultmal
Society, 32; Establishment of a Bureau of
Agriculture, 82 ; Annual Exhibition of the
Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, 137 ;
Horticultural Society of the Valley of the
Genesee, 137; New mode of preventing

VI

CONTENTS.

the potato rot, 137 ; Robinson's Definnce
Verbena, 138; Next fair of the New York
State Agricultural Society, 138; Lashniere's
Seedling Grape, 138; Mildness of the win-
ter, 138; Second Annual Fair of the Mich-
igan State Agricultural Society, 181 ; Cin-
cinnati Horticultural Society, 181 ; Buffalo
Horticultural Society, 182 ; Improvement
of the Gooseberry, Currant and lUackberry,
182; New hardy Evergreen Trees, 183;
The Season in Pennsylvania, 183; Rhode
Island Horticultural Society, 236; liovey's
Seedling Strawberry, 237; Clinton County
Agricultural Socieiy, 237 ; American Seed-
ling Verbenas, 237 ; Errata, 238 ; Worces-
ter County Ilorlicultural Socieiy, 281 ;
American Pears on the Quince Stock, 282 ;
The Scotch Larch for a Hedge, 283 ; New
Haven County Horticultural Society, 330 ;
The Middlesex Horticultural Society, 331 ;
Cryptomeria japonica, 331; Horticulture
in Northern New York, 331 ; Raising To-
matoes in Vermont, 331; American Pomo-
logical Congress, 378. 422 ; Muskingum
County Horticultural Society, Ohio, 423 ;
Uuffalo Horticultural Society, 423; Oops
in the West, Insects, and benefits of Mulch-
ing, 424; Boston Pine Strawberry, 425;
New plants from California, 425; The Cher-
ry Tree Borer, 426 ; Grafting Fir trees, the
Shellbark, &c., 426; Stripping the bark
from cherry trees, to prevent their being
backbound, 426 ; Pomological Convention
at St. Albans, Vermont, 518; Cincinnati
Horticultural Society, 519.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

List of Premiums awarded for 1819, and Ex-
hibitions, 39; Address of the President,
Report of the Finance Committee, List of
Prizes offered for 1850, and Exhibitions, 82;

Exhibition and Proceeds of Mount Auburn
sales, 141 ; Report of the Committee on
the President's Address, 183; Premiums fop
Azaleas, 191; Exhibitions, 228; Exhibi-
tions and Premiums awarded at openinij
of the Hall, 285 ; Exhibitions and Pre-
miums awarded, 330 ; Exhibition and Pre-
miums for Roses, &c., 379; Premiums for
Fruits, 393; Exhibitions and Premiums,
428 ; Exhibitions and Premiums, 468 ; Pre-
miums for Fruils, 470 ; Report of the An-
nual Exhibition and award of Premiums,
471 ; Exhibitions and Premiums for Dah-
lias, 523; Annual Election of Officers for
1850, 524 ; Exhibitions, 565 ; Premiums for
Fruit, 566.

Exhibitions of Horticultural Soc'ties.

Albany and Renseliaer Horticultural Society,
annual meeting, 139; Exhibition for July,
427; Exhibition for September, 519; Penn-
sylvania Horticultural Society, 558 ; Cin-
cinnati Horticultural Society, 559; Genesee
Valley HonicuUural Society, 560 ; Clinton
County Agricultural Society, 561; South-
ern Iowa Horticultural Society, 562 ; Wor-
cester Horticultural Society, 563 ; Oswego
Horticultural Society, 565; New Bedlbrd
Horticultural Society, 559.

Answers to Correspondents.
A Budgetof aufstions, 283; Best twelve Ver-
benas, 284; Best twelve Dahlias both Fan-
cy and Show Flowers, 284.

Horticultural Operations.
For .lanuary, 47 ; February, 95; March, 143 ;
April, 191; May, 239; June, 287; July
335; August, 383; September, 431; Octo-
ber, 479 ; November, 528; December, 567.

LIST OF ENGRAVINGS.

.. FRUIT.

Pears.
Fiederica Bremer,
Heurr6 Langelier,
Beurre Goubault,
Styrian,

Belle Epine Dumas, .
White Doyenni,
Brown Beuri^, .
Ueurr6 Superfine,
Doyenne Goubault,
Beurr^ Robin,

Page

. 26
. 338
. .340
. 342
. 343
. 346
. 319
. 489
. 490
. 492

Apples.

3. Jonathan, .

4. Esopus Spitzenberg, .
.5. Red Gillillower, .

10. Red Gilliflower, .

11. Flack Gillitlower,
25. Rough and fieady,

. 61
. 63
. 64
. 199
. 200
. 451

Fig. Page

33. Gravenstcin 494

34. Duchess of Oldenburg, . . . 495

35. Tufts, • 496

39. Northern Sweet, .... 542

40. Bailey Spice, 543

Chf.rriea.

21. Elton, 390

22. Early Purple Guigne, . . .391

23. Werder's Early Black Heart, . . 392

36. New Large Black Kigarreau, . . 538

37. Black fligarrean of Savoy, . . 539

38. Belle of Orleans, . . . .540

Plums.

25. .leflerson, 453

26. Imperial Gage, 455

27. Purple Favorite, .... 456
2.8. McLaughlin, 457

CONTENTS.

VU

Grape.

Fig.
2. Diana, . . . .

FLOWERS.

7. Troptcoliim Lobbinnum,
9. Neinophila niaculuia,

OPERATIONS.
6. Pruning the Gooseberry, .

8. Pruning the Currant,

Page

. 33

130
175

IIG
16'2

Fi,?. Past

12. Pruning the Quince Tree, . . . 205

\:i. Pruning ihe Apple Tree, . . . 267

14. Pruning the Fiibert Tree, . . . 3uy

LMPLEMENTS, APPARATUS, &c.

29. Diagram showing the principle of
circulation of hot water, . . 482

LIST OF PLANTS

ENUMERATED IN THE PRESENT VOLUME.

In the body of the Magazine, a few errors occur in the spelling of the botanical names, the
capitalizing of generic and specific names, their derivation and accentuation ; these are all
corrected in the following list of plants.

List of Select Flower Seeds, . . .178
List of fine Verbenas, .... 284
List of fine Dahlias, . . . 284. 521

List of fine Roses, 320

List of Roses which succeed on the Man-

etti stock 133

List of ConiferfB injured bv the winter of

1849, in Scotland, . .' . . .377
List of Carnations and Picotees, . . 382

Abulia rup^stris

444

Begdnta sanguinea

56

v4'bies Sniilhifina 10.

183

. 510

several sp.

232

Abutilon vendsum

56

Bidcns chrysanthemolJcs

105

.4c4cia cultrteformis

.06

Boidnia anemonefldra

180

pub^scens

56

serrulAta

160

Achimenes

234

viininea

180

gloxinasfldra

472

507

Brachycome iberidiflora

365

insignis

472

Bral6ria decolorana

102

Adaniia cyAnea

10

Biiza mixima

465

Alonsna incislloli.t

278

Burldnja pulchella

368

Jnapillis IMon^lli

278

Ciclus, new Mexican sji.

221

Aquile^ia frdgrans

368

seedlings

286

Arauciria braziliensis

376

Calla a-thiopica

135

imbrir^ta £28.

375

510

Calysl^gia pubtscens

367

^rbijtus uva tirsi

171

Cam^llja 207

321

./^rctostdphis itva iirsi

170

japonica Archduchess

A'ria pulch^lla

465

Augusta

508

,4scl6pias Dou"lis/j

372

seedlings 141

142

AzAlea

359

new seedlings

222

var. G1edstands;j

285

yellow

221

variei'ita filn

gea

285

several var. 141

142

several var.

190

Calceolaria

9

visc6sa plino

.?82

Cam[4iiula grdndis

408

several fine varieties

332

rolundilolia

422

Barrlngtdnia specidsa

369

rtdrns JJeoddra 10. 183

377

Bartrdmf'a fontina

104

C'ephalol4xu9 Forliinj"

220

pomifbrmis

102

Ceropdgia ilegans

285

Begdni'a

231

C^strum auranliacuni

444

coccinea

56

C^rcis canadensis

434

fuchsoldes

56

Chirlta Mcdnii

369

znanic&ta

56

Chorizema, 6 sp.

180

List of Pelargoniums aw.irded ]irizes by

the London Horticultural Society, ". 421
List of Roses awarded prizes, . . . 421
List of new and rare Roses, . . . 512
List of fine Hollyhocks, .... 5J8
List of Dahlias awarded premiums by

Massachusetts Horticultural Society . 523
List of Dahlias which obtained prizes at
the London Dahlia Shows, . . . 557

Chorizema vdrium iijkna 56

C'hrysAnihemum 279

several var. 280

Cineraria, 6 fine var. 169
Claddnia gracilis var.elon-

pAia 102

Clirkia 465

Clematis aziirea grandifl6ra

333
380
408
408
284
391

alplna

Cliandleri

cyllndrica

fi&mmula

J16rida

Hendersdni

indivisa lob&ta 225

rubra 380

Schilling/ 380

Sieb<il(l(7 aai

smilacifii^lia 225

Clerod^ndron inforturilum

472

squamAtum 470

ColOnia nigr^scens ]02

Cosmelia rubra ]80

Crlnum am&bile 50

Cryptomeriajapiinica 11. 183.

221. 330. 374. 444

Cuphia miniila 369

platycentra 278. 368. 467

purpilrea S69

vm

CONTENTS.

317
319

106
381
381
509
371
104
99
223
204
224
285
419
429
285
285
285
429

Cuph^a viscosissimum 309
Cuprissus Llnilley! 373

macrocaipa 373

toruldsa 372. 510

Funebral 11. 183

Cycas revolula 52

Cyclamen

7 sjiecics
Datura siramoniiim var

t^lula
jDeljiliiiiium Barlowj

Br^cki
Di&nthus cru^ntus
Diplad^nia urophylla
Dr'dba vtrna
Urosera longiflira
Drymdiiia cristata

ptinci^ta
Episcia liicolor
£r^ca Cavendislu';!

mamniosa rubra

regerminaiis

tricolor

versicolor alba
breviflora

vesllta

Eucliaridlum grandifloruin 465
Eut^xia myrtil61ia 180

Fcigus sylvdtica peiidnla 196
Forsylhi'a viridissiina 220

Fuchsia 229

arbor^scens var. syrin-
gaifldia 370

fiilgeiia 370

nigresceiis 508

specl4bile 10

Frixiiius excidslor p^ndula 195

aiirea 195

lenllscifdlia piiidula 195
Gardenia Fortiinj
G^snera oblonga

zebriiia

Genista rhodopha^'na

Gladiolus tristis

Gloxinia TeuchWrt

Glycene frut^scens

Gomphr^na, new sp.

Gymn6cladus canadensis 434

Henfreya scAndens 10

/feliotrdpium var. Grissau 167

Souvenir de Leige 10.

167

Triuniphe de Leige

167
Hindsza longiflira

violAcea
Hdvea Celsu'

piingens
H6ya b611a

carnisa
Hymeiiopsia calilurnica
riex opica
/mpAtiens rt^pcns
i'ris susicinna

Juniperus excelsa

p^ndula
.luslicia firnea mAjor
K&lmi'a latifdlia
Kalosdiithes coccinea
Kenn^dia grandill6ra

niacrophylla

nigresceiis

racenicisa
Lechenaultia formdsu
Lecidea decolorans
Z^ilium peregrinuni
Linna.'a bortdlis
\joh&\ia cardindlis
JViAlva IriangulAla
Mousfdnia elegans
Nem6))liila discoid^lis

insignis

maculAta

8 sp. and var.
iVymphiE'a Alba

cierulea

odorala
O'xalis per^nnis

ripena
P\E6nia Moutan

several fine var.

albifldra var.
(itstiva

several fine sorts
Parniilla delonsa

4 sp.
Pirsica vulgaris pindula
Phlox

Robert de Flandre 9.

Triurnpliator 9.

14 var.

several fine sorts 9.
430,

seedlings 430.

Plcea cephal6nica

grcindis

Fraserj

Iludsdni

n6bilis

pindrow

pinsupo

pitclita

Wahbidna
Pimelea speciibilis 42,

3 sp.
Pinus

austrlaca

excelsa 183

FremontJaJia
str6bus nlvea
several new ones
Plumbago Larp(;nt(« 10.

Podoc4rpus spicAtus

4 sp.
Poinsettid pulcliirrima
Polygala saiigulnea
Polygduium hydropiper

373
183
368
334
511
56
180
56
56
56
102
333
106
106
434
509
174
174
175
176
101
101
101
278
278
332
332
334
334
334
102
106
197
173
173
174
173
381.
522
469
227
228
229
229
228
227
229
227
226
180
180
328

11
,520

11
183
378
507.
516
.328
375

52
106
105

Polyg(inium saggitlitum 105
Polypddiuni vulgdre 102

P<lj)ulus treinula i]endula 197
Pyrus aucupAria pendula 197
Qu6rcus pedunculila pen-

196
105

98
133
133

379
434
472
105
472
508
10
99
371

333
103

225
332
332
332
373

dula
Rhexj'a virginica
Roblnia pseudacdcia
/ddsa

Maneltt

several varieties
Rudb^ckjff iulgida
Russ61lja juncea
Sanguis6rba canadensis
ScluibertM grav^olens
Scutellaria macrintlia

Ventendti
Sempervivum t^ctorum
Pluitiria bicolor
Sophdra japonica pendula 197
Spirse'a prunitl6ra pldno 285

Reivesji
?tereocaulon paschale
Syphoc4mpyIos glandulo

sus
Syrlnga grandiflira

Saugeana

several var.
Taxddium disiichum

senipervirens 374. 485
Thuja riliformis 183

Thunb6rgia alala var. Doddsu
370
Torinia asiatica 362

Trevirana Candida 371

Tropffi'olum DeckeruinMwi 509

JarriittJi 130

liOhhiunum 10. 56. 129.
500

tricoWrum 130. 500

8 sp. and var. 500

[/'Imus camp6strls pendula

196

glabra pendula

inoniAna pendula
Unibilicum Uilldn/j

IMuhlenbtrgu'

puslulata
Utriculdria vulg4re
l^'acciniuni Tills Idie'a

macrocirpa
Verbena

var. Iphigene

Reine du Jour
Robinson's Defiance

10. 222
St. Margaret
several var.
10 var.
Virgilio lulea
Viscaria oculita
Wistaria sinensis
Zauschneri'ff californica

196
195
102
102
102
101
170
170
275
222
222

222

277. 532
275

334
465
284
10.

226. 381

CONTENTS.

IX

LIST OF FRUITS.

APPLES.

Autumn Swaar 111

Black (Jilliflower 65. 198

Bailey Spice 542

BeefSleak 159

Columbia Pippin 80

Cole's Quince 39

Cogswell 44

Cornish t^pice 39

Duchess of Oldenburgh 469.
495
Esopus Spitzenburg 62

Jenks's Seedling 111

Gravenstein 493

Garretson's Early 429

Holten Sweeting 526

Hawthorndeau 111

Hurlburt 567

Jonathan 61

Kingsley 159

Maidens' Blush 111

Mother 564

Manomet 468

Northern Sweet 36. 315. 541
Northern Spy 526

Newtown Pippin 292

Oliphant 526

Peru 567

Roxbury Russet 111

Red Gilliflower 64. 198

Red Gilliflower (?) 196

Ranibo 111

Rawle's Janet 111

Red As'.rachan 457

Rough and Ready 451. 468
Summer BelUlower 159

Scalloped Gilliflower 198

Summer Russet 111

Siberian Crab, seedling 561
Tufts 496

Wagener 158

VVallworth 544

Winter Harvey 75

Yellow Bellflower 292

Several sorts 139. 140. 561
Seedlings 469

List ot rejected varieties 295
List of, adopted by New
York State Agricultural
Society 404

List of, Exhibited at Mass.
Horticultural Society 474.
475
List of, adopted by Pomo-
logical Congress 304

APRICOTS.

List of, adopted by Pomo-
logical Congress 305

CHERRIES.

KcUe of Orleans
Bigarreau de Mezel
de Lyon

VOL

358. 540
358. 380

358

Bigarreau May 358

New Large Black 638

Black of Savoy 539

Rockport 403

Gabaulis 403

d'Oclobrc 403

Cumberland Seedling 403

Champagne 403

Elton 389

Early Purple Guigne 316. 358.

391

Gridley 539

Reine Ilortense 403

Red Cheek 403

Shannon 113

Werder's Early Black

Heart 392.403

Seedlings 380. 382

List of, adopted by Pomo-

logical Congress 305

List of, recommended by
New York State Agri-
cultural Society 404

BLACKBERRY.

American High Bush 261. 403

CURRANTS.

Knight's Sweet Red 427

Victoria 383. 430

While Dutch 427

List of, adopted by Pomo-

logical Congress 305

List of, recommended by
New York Slate Agri-
cultural Society 404

FIGS.

Brunswick 524
Black, of St. Michael's 429

Black Ischia 524

Brown Turkey 524

Marseilles 524

White Ischia 524

GOOSEBERRIES.

Houghton's seedling 114. 430
Sheba Uueen 427

Seedlings 427

List of, recommended by
New York State Agri-
cultural Society 404
List of, adopted by Pomo-
logical Congress 305

Chasselas Musque 76

Catawba 20. 546

Cape 563

Cigar Box, or Ohio 546

DeCnndolle 380

Diana 8. 20. 28. 186. 306. 546
Deccan's Superb 8. 286

Florentine 285

Gros Noir of Lorraine 285
Isabella 28. 81. 548

Josling's St. Albans 76

Lashmere's seedling 138

McNeil 562

Muscat Muscadine 78

Macready's Early White 468
Prince Albert 382

Purple Fontainbleau 547

Poiteau Noir 429

Red Chasselas 546

Seedling Hamburgh 333

Victoria 382

White Bual 380

Whortley Hall seedling 429
Seedlings 526

Sweetwater 565

List of, adopted by Pomo-

logical Congress 304

List of, recommended by
the New York State
Agricultural Society 306

GUAVA.

Purple

567

NECTARINES.

Elruge 272

Lewis 458. 567

Late Newington 429

Sianwick 272. 313. 547

List of, adopted by Pomo-

logical Congress 305

Vermash 383

Hunt's Early Tawney 332

PEACHES.

Bellegarde

429

Bergen's Yellow

404

Crawford's Lute

404

Hall's Down-Easter

566

Mary

524

Oldmixton Free

404

Seedlings

565

PEARS.

XVI.

B =

Ananas

134

Angora

135

GRAPES.

Andrews

472

Beurre Brown

8.346

Austrian Muscat

333. 413

d'Amanlis

110. 498

Black Hamburgh

20

Diel

110

Bishop

429

des Charneuses

157

— B

Beurr* Duval 566

Capiaumont 74

Bosc 111

d'Anjou 566

Easter 73. 110. 286

Goubault 8, 156. 337. 340.
498
Gris d'Hiver Nouveau 156
Langelier 118. 142. 339
Lefevre 156

Moiret 156

Quetelet 156

Robin 491

St. Louis 157

St. Nicolas 157

Superfine 341. 490

Sprin 525

Belle Apres Noel 8

Belle Epine Dumas 155. 343

Belle de Feron 469

Belle Lucrative 108

Bergamot Edouard Sargeret
155
Lucrative 155

Sargeret 155

Buffum 109. 282. 297

Brande's St. Germain 8

Bleeker's' Meadow 110

Bezi de Veteran 157

Bordenave 473. 499

Baron de Mello

Broom Park

Bonne d' Ezee

Canandagua

Catherine

Gushing

Catinka

Colniar d'Aremberg

Coffin's Virgoulouse

Cluster

Charlotte de Brovyer

Conseilleur Rameux

Compte de Laray

Collins

Duchess of Angouleme

D'Aranvllle

Doyenni Boussock

Dunmore

Dix

Episcopal

Eyewood

Frederica Bremer

Frederick of Wurtemburg 109

473
498
157

36. 153
36
72
158
158
282
430
474
473
498. 566
525
108.
407
524
472
499
110
474
498

24. 526

Fulton

Fondante de Malines

Gansell's Bergamot

Glout Morceau

Grand Soliel

Grain du Coral

Howell

Hanners

Hegerman

Hill's Fall Butter

Inconnue Cramoisine

Inconnue Van Mons

Josephine de Mulines

Julienne

109

566

108

282

473

[473

8

72

112. 153

566

471

140

8. 19

109

COsNTENTS.

Kirtland

112

Lawrence

566

Long Green

109

Limon

469

Louise d'Orleans

474

Marie Louise

566

March Bergamot

498

Monarch 8. 19. 498

Marthy Anno 547. 566

Napoleon 108

Nouveau Simon Bouvier 473
Nouveau Poiteau 473.545.
567
Notaire Minot 474

Pratt 8

Passe Colmar 110

Paradise of Autumn 283

Piatt's Seedling 545

Ropes' 5fi6

Sheldon 499

Shobden Court 493

Styrian 341

Swan's Orange &. 472. 561
St. Nicholas 18

St. Ghislaia 108

Tea 154

Van Mons Leon le Clerc 472
Wendell 460

White Doyenn^ 7. 19. 344
Seedlings 81. 566

New Seedlings 458. 468

New native pear 458. 469

List of, which promise
well, adopted by Pom-
ological Congress 35. 305
List of rejected sorts 295

Several varieties enumer-
ated 564
List of, adopted by Pom-

ological Congress 304

List of, recommended by
the New York State Ag-
ricultural Society 404
List of, which obtained

prizes 461

List of, exhibited at Mass.
Horticultural Society 473.
474

PLUMS.

Bradshaw
Blue Gage
Coe's Late Red
Col. Young's Seedlinj
Cooper's
Columbia
Coe's Golden Drop
De Montfort
Duaue's Purple
Dana's Seedltng
Early Favorite
Early Prolific
Gutherie's Apricot
Green Gage
Imperial Gage
Jeliersau

469

469

554

112

471

471

408. 563

457. 468

108

112

554

554

121. 405

8. 20

454

453

Kirke's 554

Lucombe's Nonsuch 108

Long Scarlet 108

Lawrence's Favorite 108

Louis Philippe 431

Madison 35. 112. 404. 405

McLaughlin 8. 20. 456. 471
Morocco 431

Mussel 555

Precoce de Tours 554

Purple Favorite 455

(iueen Mother .554

Reine Claude Violet 457

Reine Claude de Bavay 8. 526.
554
Rivers's Favorite 431

Smith's Orleans 108

St. Martin's Questche 554
Waterloo 120

Yellow Honey 468

Several sons 120

List of, by the Pomologi-
cal Congress 35. 305

RASPBERRIES.

Knevett's Giant 35. 30G

Fastolff 427

Seedlings 404

List of, adopted by Pomo-

logical Congress 305

List of, recommended by
the New York State
Agricultural Society 404

STRAWBERFvIES.

Britannia 459

Black Prince 35. 30?

Boston Pine 7L 165. 302. 410.
415
Burr's new Pine S5. 237. 409
Cambridge 409

Gushing ■ 237. 409

Deptford Pine 357

Early Virginia 71

Hovey's Seedling 8. 71. 165.
166. 237. 302
Jenny's Seedling 380

Kifcley's Goliah 459

Keen's Seedling 237

La Deliceuse 459

Large Early Scarlet 70

iMyatt's Surprise 459

Newland's Mammoth 358
Ohio Mammoth 423

Richardson's Late 409

Wilmot's Prince Arthur 457
Several sorts 423

Twenty-five varieties no-
ticed 357. 381
Three best varieties 164
List of, adopted by Porao-

logical Congress 305

List of, recommended by
Pomological Congress 30.'j

CONTENTS.

XI

LIST OF VEGETABLES.

Asparagus 533

Beans 46

String 184

Beets 522

Brocoli, seyeral varieties 179

Cabbage 46

Drumliead 46

Cauliflowers 141

Walclieren 179

Celery 47

Cole's Superb Red 179

Seymour's White Giant

522

Chicory 179

Cucumbers 47

Allen's Victory 238

Black Spine 238

Barnes's Man of Kent 238

Sion House 238

Walker's Prize 429

Young's Champion 238

Carrots 46

Orange 141

Corn 46 I

Old Colony Sweet 479.529 I

Corn, common Sweet

Southern white
Egg Plant
Lettuce

Cos

Royal Cape

Drumhead
Melons

Beechwood

Christiana 45.

Okra
Peas

Champion of England

Burbidge's Eclipse

Bishop's Dwarf Long
Podded

Hair's Dwarf Green
Marrow

Twenty-one varieties
described by Mr. R.
Thompson
Potatoes 47.

Early White

Early

Potatoes, Sweet 562

Seedlings 479. 522. 552.
562
Rhubarb 562

Downing's Mammoth 286
Victoria 332

Seedlings 332

Radishes 179

Spinach 179

iSquashes, Custard 141

Canada 47

Tomatoes 428. 330

Vegetable Marrow 522

Water Cresses 47

Premiums awarded for va-
rious sorts by Massa-
chusetts Horticultural
Society 46

Premiums offered for, by

the same 93

Select varieties enumerated

179

Various kinds 324. 478. 522.

561

LIST OF CORRESPONDENTS.

An Old Fruit Cultivator,
Bailey, John W.,
Battey, J.,
Brinckle, VV. D.,
Cadness, J.,
Cabot, Hon. J. S.,
Cowles, C. P., .
Cox, J. L.,

Crehore, J. A., .

Downing, C.

Des Portes, M.,

Editor, . 1. 28. 34. 60,
1.52. 160. 164
220. 271. 275
359. 367. 389
457. 461. 493,

Ernst, A. H., .
Fall, Rev. P. S.,
Goodrich, C, .
Holmes, J. C, .
Hayes, A. A., .
J

. 487
543

316*. 425. 541
. 24
. 167
. 14
. 450
. 423
. 32
. 403
. 485. 489

107. 114. 118.

174. 193. 198.

313. 337. 356.

402. 406. 452.

507. 537. 538.

544

. 37

. 330

289. 330. 447
. 181
. 138

283, 234. 426

J. B., .
J. B. G., .
Jacques, George,
Johnston, A., Jr.,
Kenrick, Wm.,
Kinnicott, Dr. J. A.
Londoniensis, .
Lovett, Jos.,
Leuchars, R. B.,

P., . . .
Pope, Rev. A.R.,
Prince, Wm. R.,
Russell, Rev. J. L.,
Saunders, Wm.,
Simpson, M. H.,
T., .

Thomas, J. J., .
Tuttle, J. W., .
Thompson, Robert,
Vanessa, .
Walker, S.,
Wilder, M. P., .

49,

138
885

203

264.

379,

, 330
183
426
81
184
425
442
261

245.

.481
241
529
433
169
500
256
129
198
293
306
317
22
423

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTUR

JANUARY, 1850.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. A Retrospective Vieio of the Progress of Horticul-
ture in the United States, duri?ig the year 1849. By the
Editor.

Fifteen years having now elapsed since the first publica-
tion of the Magazine, a brief review of the progress of Hor-
ticuhure during that period, and the influence it has continued'
to exert in its behalf, may not be out of place. How great
and rapid has been the advancement of the art of cultiva-
tion during that period ! If we look back and compare the
variety of fruits and vegetables which were to be found in
our gardens, fifteen years ago, with those which now fill our
collections, how striking the difference ! From the few for-
eign productions which were then to be found only in the
gardens of amateurs, have sprung into existence, through the
skill of our cultivators, hundreds of beautiful flowers and
delicious fruits, which are now spread over the whole coun-
try. From the single wild-rose, which luxuriates on our
western prairies, have been reared the double and brilliant'
varieties which already ornament every garden. From the
single camellia have been raised exquisite seedlings, equalling
those of Chinese origin, and surpassing all that Europe, for
nearly half a century, and with the aid of the most skilful
cultivators, had been able to produce. From the half a doz-
en pears which then made up the sum of American varieties
worth growing, more than fifty now enrich our collections.

VOL. XVI. NO. I. 1

2 A Retrospective Vieio of the Progress of

So, too, with the apple, — the peach, — the cherry, — the
phmi, — the strawberry, and even our native grape. And
we may properly ask, without being charged with an over-
favoritism for our native productions, where, among the
thousands of fruits which, up to the present moment, have
been produced, are to be found any which will surpass the
Swan's Orange Pear, the Northern Spy Apple, the McLaugh-
lin Plum, the Early Crawford Peach, the Sweet Montmoren-
cy Cherry, the Hovey's Seedling Strawberry, or, for general
culture, the Diana Grape ? all of which have been produced
or brought to notice during the past fifteen years, and, most
of them, first described or figured in the several volumes of
the Magazine.

But it is not in the production of new flowers or fruits
that there has only been such rapid advancement ; in the art
of cultivation there has been equally great and marked im-
provement. Plants which were once only found under the
management of scientific gardeners, and supposed to be
beyond the reach of ordinary skill, are now easily grown by
every judicious cultivator ; and fruits, whose routine of treat-
ment, whether by artificial or ordinary means, had always been
within the peculiar province of the practical man, are now suc-
cessfully produced by every attentive amateur. Not that we
would argue that preeminence in the art of culture does not
require unremitted exertions on the part of all who would
attain it, but that a degree of success may be arrived at by
all who are willing to read and practise.

Such has been the progress of art and science for the last
fifteen years. It has been our duty to record this progress
from year to year, and to chronicle all the events which have
taken place in the world of horticulture during that period.
How faithfully we have done this, we leave to others to de-
cide ; but with an enthusiasm nothing lessened after the
labors of so long a time, we shall endeavor to go on as we
have in years past, making our pages a true transcript of hor-
ticultural progress, and the results which follow from the
more extended love of its pursuit.

The year just passed was, in many respects, a peculiar one.

Horticulture in the United States, for 1849. 3

For the first time for many years, and beyond the recollec-
tion of most persons, there was almost an entire failure of the
crop of apples and pears, hardy fruits, which usually resist
the most severe cold and sudden changes of weather ; but to
what cause this can be attributed is yet unknown. Our cor-
respondent, Mr. Cabot, of Salem, in an article in a future
page, has offered some remarks upon this subject, and sug-
gested whether it was not the warm weather of December,
1848, followed by severe cold, which produced such disas-
trous results ; and though we have no positive facts by which
we can deny that to have been the cause, still, more informa-
tion is wanted before we can admit the conclusions he has
arrived at. But, as some aid to this end, we shall recapitu-
late the changes of the weather through the year, as deduced
from our own observations.

Just as we were sending to press the matter for our annual
summary of 1848, (Dec. 16,) the weather was unusually mild
and pleasant for the season, with the thermometer at 50*^ :
but, although we carefully inspected various trees in different
parts of the nursery, we could not see that the buds were
any more swollen than usual. On the 28th of December,
snow fell, succeeded by cold so severe that the mercury fell
to zero on the morning of the 24th. On the 27th and SOth,
snow again fell, to the depth of one foot.

January was not less severe. It opened with the tempera-
ture at 2° above zero ; on the 2d, 8° below ; the 3d, 4° above ;
and continued cold to the 10th, when it again sunk to zero ;
falling still further, on the 11th, to 11° below, and the 12th,
to 6° below. Rain fell on the 13th, succeeded by a warm
day on the 14th, But, on the 19th, the temperature again
sunk to 4P below zero ; became warmer on the 21st, and then
changed to cold, and continued so to the end of the
month.

February was a very cold month. Snow fell on the 1st, 2d
and 5th, but on the 8th the thermometer indicated 10° below
zero again ; 4° below on the 10th ; 6° below on the 13th ;
2° below on the 14th ; 6° below on the 15th ; and 12° be-
low on the 16th, which was the lowest point it reached, at

4 A Retrospective View of the Progress of

Cambridge, during the winter ; again, on the 19th, 4P below
zero ; 20th, 10° below ; and the 21st, 6° above ; after which
it became milder, and the snow began to thaw rapidly.

The month of March was milder. On the 2d, song spar-
rows were heard for the first time, and the snow continued
to wear away ; the 5th was cool, with the temperature at 6° ;
on the 7th, robins made their appearance, and after this it
gradually became warmer, with rain, so that the frost was
nearly out of the ground on the 19th. From the 24th to
the 31st it rained incessantly.

April opened favorably, and the 4th was a very warm day.
On the 12th it became cooler, and on the 15th the tempera-
ture was as low as 20°, with a hard frost ; the 16th it was
the same, (20°,) and it continued cool to the end of the
month. May commenced with the thermometer at 78°, and
continued mild and fair till the 13th, when a light rain fell,
succeeded with cool and pleasant weather again. On the
20th, the pear trees were in bloom; the 21st, the thermome-
ter reached as high as 88°. The last week was chilly, with
east winds and some rain, but free from frost. June began
with heavy showers on the 1st and 4th, after which no rain
fell until the 29th, and then but just sufficient to damp the
soil. The whole month was warm, and the 22d was the
hottest day in the year, the temperature rising to 102° in the
shade. July continued warm and dry, and vegetation suf-
fered severely. On the 13th, the thermometer was 101°, and
the month continued hot and excessively dry throughout.
August continued the same, until the 6th, when there was a
light shower; succeeded, on the 11th and 13th, by heavy
rains, the first to revive vegetation since the 4th of June.
The remainder of the month was pleasant and showery.

September was cool and favorable, with showers. Octo-
ber opened with a severe storm, succeeded by others on the
7th, 10th, and 28th. The first frost to injure dahlias and
tender plants was on the morning of the 15th. From this
to the close of the month the weather was fine for the season.
The 1st of November was cool, with the temperature at
24° ; this was followed by cold mist and rain from the 5th

Horticulture in the United States, for 1849. 5

to the 10th, and again on the 19th and 20th, when a great
quantity of rain fell. With the exception of the heavy rains,
the month was very favorable to out-door operations. De-
cember began with the temperature as low as 10^ on the 2d,
with a light snow on the 3d, and continued moderate, with
occasional squalls of snow, up to the present date (20th).

The season, with the exception of the drought of June
and July, appears to have been favorable to the growth of
fruit trees ; the fall having been prolonged and mild, the
wood has ripened finely ; and, recovering their strength by
having no crop, they are filled with flower-buds. Should
the winter be favorable, a great crop will undoubtedly reward
the cultivator the coming year.

It is somewhat remarkable that the failure of the fruit
crop, the last year, should have been so general. We con-
versed with gentlemen from almost every State in the Union,
at the Pomological Conventions, last autumn, and they all
complained of the scarcity of fruit, — particularly of apples
and pears. It is the more remarkable, from the fact that the
failure was not produced by the same causes. In the south
and Vv'est, late spring frosts destroyed the blossoms.

The principal supply of apples has been obtained from
northern New York, and Maine, where the crop was nearly
an average one. Peaches were abundant in high and ex-
posed localities, throughout the State. The crop of grapes
was large and excellent.

HORTICULTURE.

The subject of Pomology, just now attracting so much
attention, has had its full share of space in our last volume.
Many of the choicest varieties of pears, apples, plums, &,c.,
have been figured and described ; and among them several
which have been for the first time made known to cultiva-
tors. The scanty crop, however, has prevented, for a season,
an opportunity to figure and describe some new sorts, which
have been so highly extolled abroad that amateur cultivators
are anxious to see specimens of the fruit, that they may be
able to learn whether they fulfil the expectations which have

6 A Retrospective View of the Progress of

been formed of them, or possess qualities which will com-
mend them to a place in their collections.

The two conventions which assembled in 1848 have again
held a second session the past autumn ; but the proceedings
of neither of them have yet been published, and we have
therefore not been able to give a full summary of their
doings. The lists of fruits adopted for general cultivation
by each meeting have, however, been given, (pp. 466, 513.)
It must be gratifying to every pomologist, who feels an inter-
est in the subject, to know that the two conventions have
eventually formed a union, and that after 1851 only one
convention will be holden, and that only in alternate years.
This will effect all that the most ardent cultivator could
wish ', for it must be admitted that annual meetings would
leave so little to do, that it would scarcely repay the loss of
time and expense which would necessarily attend the assem-
bling of so large a number of gentlemen from all parts of the
country. The harmony which seemed to prevail at both
conventions, and the manifest desire for their union expressed
by the members of each, shows how general was the feeling
that ONE National Convention would be sufficient to accom-
plish all the objects for which they were called together.

The cultivation of the grape, and the formation of vine-
borders, has been considerably discussed in our last volume,
and much valuable information elicited. The excellent arti-
cle of Mr. Leuchars, (p. 110,) and the actual experiments
which he has adduced in corroboration of his practice, must
be satisfactory to every grape-grower. Our own views have
been fully expressed (p. 75) in a review of Mr. Allen's trea-
tise ; and Mr. Hutchinson's excellent article (p. 540) further
confirms all we had previously advanced in relation to the
proper materials for the formation of borders.

Some excellent hints on pruning have appeared in our last
volume ; the most complete, as well as the most general, be-
ing that by Mr. Robert Thompson, (p. 49,) which formed the
results of his tour among the French gardeners and nursery-
men, made by the express order of the London Horticultural
Society. They will bear repeated perusal by all who de-

Horticulture hi the United States, for 1849. 7

sire to acquire a thorough knowledge of the management of
dwarf, pyramidal, or espalier trees. Mr. Leuchars has given
some general views on pruning, (p. 436,) and the proper sea-
son for performing this operation, which deserve attention ;
and to aid several of our amateur friends, who have made
repeated inquiries of us, as to our mode of pruning pyramidal
pear trees, we have thrown out a few hints (p. 300) which
we trust have answered the purpose for which they were in-
tended. We need scarcely repeat, what we have already
stated, that these were but preparatory to a full elucidation of
the subject in the present volume.

We have incidentally alluded to the subject of special
manures, but have not deemed it advisable to adopt the views
of some theorists, who would have cultivators believe that
the exact quantity or kind of manure or substance any spe-
cies and variety of tree must have, to bring it to perfection,
may be readily told by the aid of the crucible. The Avood
of the pear, or the grape, has but to be burned, and the ashes
analyzed, when, presto, — the very condiments, even to the
proper portion and mixture in bushels and quarts, is at once
as quickly pointed out as a magician would change his balls
into specie. That special manures have their uses, and may
be brought to the aid of the cultivator in some degree, we
certainly should be the last to doubt ; but how they are to
be applied, through what agencies they are brought to act,
and whether an analysis of the wood will show what sub-
stances make the fruit, are questions not yet decided, and
are not likely soon to be satisfactorily ascertained. Mr. Tu-
dor, of Nahant, a gentleman devoted to the subject of exper-
imental culture, has shown, by his own experience the past
year, (p. 524,) that the very largest and finest fruit can be
obtained simply by the use of pure rain water alone, the
ground being previously well enriched with stable manure ;
and, until we have as good results from " special manures," we
shall not advise the cultivator to throw aside stable dung and
guano for such compounds as peat and ashes.

But the latest and certainly most ingenious theory is that
in relation to the cause of the cracking of the old White
Doyenne (or St. Michael's) pear. The odd notion of diseased

8 A Retrospective View of the Progress of

stocks is thrown aside to make room for a new one, cer-
tainly not less odd ; and Mr. Downing tells us, with as much
dignity as he asserted the hermaphrodite character of Hov-
ey's Seedling Strawberry, — when he sent the dozen pots of
spurious plants to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, —
that the sole cause of the cracking of the Doyenne pear is
from the fact that the soil is exhausted of its mineral sub-
stances ; and that a bushel of peat, half a bushel of wood
ashes, and a few bones, with perhaps a little iron, will quite
renovate a tree. This theory may answer very well for new
beginners in gardening ; but every practical man knows that,
in Boston, the White Doyenne and Brown Beurre are pro-
duced in greater perfection, at the present moment, than even
in Western New York, where their excellence is attributed
to the newness of the soil ; and yet the same trees which
produce such fine pears here, have been growing more than
half a century in the same spot, and in some instances under
a paved yard, where the exhaustion of the soil must have
been complete, from the inconvenience and apparent unim-
portance of supplying manure or other matters to the soil,
the fruit being always abundant and excellent. The '' ex-
haustion " theory has full as much tenability as that of " dis-
eased stocks," and at another time we shall revert to this
subject at greater length, in confirmation of our opinion.

The very few fruits of which we can give any information
from the experience of the year, are as follows : — Swan's
Orange has fruited around Boston in several collections, and
proves all that we have said of it ; Knight's Monarch has
also proved to be a fine acquisition ; the Howell, and Pratt,
excellent ; Belle apres Noel, fine ; Josephine de Malines, and
Beurre Goubault, promise well ; Brando's St. Germain, very
fine. Another year's experience of the McLaughlin plum
proves it to be nearly or quite equal to the Green Gage ; the
Reine Claude de Bavay has fruited, and promises well ; De-
can's Superb grape, handsome and good ; and the Diana, one
of the most valuable acquisitions which has yet been made
to our native grapes. Some other fruits which have come
under our notice will be mentioned in our '' Pomological
Gossip."

Horticulture in the United States, for 1849.

FLORICULTURE.

Some capital articles have been contributed to our last
volume, the most important of which are upon the Lisian-
thus, (p. 72,) Calceolaria, (p. 174,) Guava, (p. 35,) Heaths,
(p. 215,) Clerodendrons, (p. 254,) Daphne, (p. 257,) Fuch-
sia, (p. 263,) Pansy, (p. 304,) and Ranunculus, (p. 356.)
Each of these form complete treatises, which cannot fail to
afford the young amateur the most valuable aid in the
management of these plants. Our general notices have
also contained the essence of all that has been found in the
foreign journals which could in any way facilitate the opera-
tions of the garden. Under the head of General Notices,
in the Table of Contents, they may be referred to, and it will
be unnecessary to repeat them here.

In our volume for 1848, (XIV. p. 34,) we gave our readers
an article on the cultivation of the beautiful Japan lilies, and
we then stated that they would probably be found quite
hardy in our climate. Another year's experience has proved
them to be as easily and certainly grown in the open ground
as the common white lily ; and they will eventually become
as common ornaments of the garden as that old variety. The
past autumn we planted a bed containing upwards of three
hundred bulbs of the four different kinds, with some of our
own seedlings ; and, the coming summer, we anticipate a
brilliant show during the months of August and September.
The hardiness of these lilies greatly enhances their value ;
for, although they will always be among the most beautiful
plants for cultivation in pots, for ornamenting conservatories,
greenhouses and verandahs in summer, their hardiness will
enable all to enjoy their beauty who have not such places to
ornament, or who do not wish the trouble of their culture in
pots.

The new plants of the year have not been very numerous
or very remarkable. A few of the new Phloxes were fine,
more particularly Triumphator, Robert de Flandres, Camille,
These, Arsinoe, and Beppo. These we shall describe, with
several other new ones, in another number. The finest

VOL. XVL NO. I. 2

10 A Retrospective View of the Progress of

plants have been Henfreya scandens, Plumbago Larpentec,
Adamm cyanea, Hindsia longiflora and violacea, Tropae^o-
lum Ijohbiamwi (very beautiful), Gloxinm Teuchlen, Scu-
tellaria Ventenat2, Fuchsm spectabile, Gardenia Fortune,
Zauschneria californica, Heliotrope Souvenir de Liege, Rob-
inson's Defiance Verbena, &c. The principal additions of
new plants are now made through the exertions of the col-
lectors of the London nurserymen, maintained at their own
expense.

We should not, perhaps, omit to mention the hollyhock,
which is now, and justly, attracting so much attention abroad.
As a showy border-flower for large gardens it is especially
suited ; and, now that so many beautiful and distinct seed-
lings . have been produced, they demand a place even in a
very limited collection. During the last year or two, the
English gardeners have commenced giving names to some of
their choicest seedlings, so that they may be perpetuated by
propagation. The Massachusetts Horticultural Society have
enhanced the prizes for this flower the present year ; and this,
we trust, will lead to greater competition, and, in the end, to
the production of very much improved varieties. Some ex-
cellent hints on their propagation, &c., will be found at p. 555.

ARB ORICULTURE .

The taste for ornamental planting, and the desire to pos-
sess the new and fine kinds of the Coniferas, is rapidly
increasing, and the catalogues of our nurserymen now in-
clude many of the best species and varieties which are likely
to prove hardy in our climate. We have copied much informa-
tion on this head from our foreign papers, and the amateur
planter will find the different papers worthy of careful peru-
sal. We have also noted some of the Pinuses which have
already proved hardy here, and we shall continue to add to
the list all which succeed as far north as latitude 42°. Ce-
drus Deodara proved perfectly hardy, the last severe winter,
without the least protection ; and we have no doubt, if the
location is favorable, it will prove as hardy as our native
hemlock. Abies Smith«awa is a fine hardy species ; as is

Horticulture in the United States, for 1849. 11

also Pinus austriaca, which should be found in every collec-
tion of evergreen trees. The celebrated funebral Cypress, of
which we gave so favorable an account, (p. 271,) has been
introduced, but the rareness and high price of the plants will
prevent a trial of its hardiness till another year. The same
remark also applies to Cryptomeria japonica, which we have
not yet planted out in the open ground.

The American Holly, (/1ex opaca,) which grows abun-
dantly on the coast of Massachusetts, at Cohasset and New
Bedford, is a tree deserving more attention at the hands of
nurserymen and planters than it has yet received. Hardy as
the oak, and with a thick and glossy foliage of the texture
of the camellia, it would form one of the most splendid ev-
ergreen trees to be procured, — surpassing the English holly,
which is so generally cultivated and admired every where in
England. The young plants may be raised in great quantities
from the seed, which are abundantly produced, and their
cultivation would be attended with a good demand for all
that could be raised.

The evergreen trees of California, which we have before
alluded to, are among the finest species that are known to be
indigenous to this continent. Already most of them have
been introduced to England through the exertions of the
collectors sent out to that country ; and with the facilities
that will soon be afforded, through the tide of emigration
to that golden region, we hope they may be soon added
to the limited number which we already possess. Our
correspondent, W. R. Prince, Esq., now on a tour to Califor-
nia, has already collected many specimens of trees and shrubs
entirely new, which he has forwarded to his nurseries at
Flushing, L. I. If our nurserymen would only secure the
transmission of bushels of cones of the Pinus YxGvaoniiana
and others, but a few years would elapse before they would
be growing side by side with the Deodara cedar and Norway
spruce.

In our last volume (p. 145) we gave a list of fifty select
flowering shrubs, and in the present one we hope to give a
similar list of the most desirable ornamental trees. Gen. Dear-

12 A Retrospective Vieiv of the Pi'ogress of

born's excellent papers on our indigenous trees we hope also
to continue in the present volume.

CEMETERIES,

It is gratifying to see such an increasing interest felt in
the establishment of cemeteries. So general have they be-
come, that, while fifteen years ago only those of Laurel Hill
and Mount Auburn were laid out, now many of the principal
cities and towns throughout the country possess such burial
places, or are about appropriating suitable lots of ground for
that object. The city of Boston, at last awakened to the im-
portance of the subject, and with a view to prevent further
interments within the city, is about purchasing a spot of
ground, in some of the neighboring towns, suitable for the
purpose of a cemetery, and a committee have already reported
upon the matter. Roxbury, with Gen. Dearborn at the head
of the city government, has set a noble example for other
towns ; and the Forest Hills Cemetery, projected by Gen.
Dearborn, and laid out under his care, redounds to his credit
even more than Mount Auburn, which owes all but what
nature gave it, to his taste and judgment as a landscape
artist.

In Cincinnati, the Spring Grove Cemetery has been greatly
improved since it was first opened, a year ago ; and, from a
report which has been sent us by our correspondent, Mr.
Ernst, appears in a flourishing condition. We refer to a
short notice of it, by Mr. Ernst, accompanied with some fit-
ting remarks on the establishment of cemeteries, in a future
page.

It only remains for us to urge upon the proprietors of cem-
eteries the importance of planting trees adapted to such
places. There is mnch difference in their appropriateness for
such situations ; and we intend to give a list of such as, from
the associations connected with them, — ■their beauty, size,
and other characteristics, — are best suited for burial-grounds.
Almost every proprietor of a lot has a desire to grade and
ornament it with trees and shrubs ; but from the want of a
little reflection, and without any knowledge of what is most

Horticulture in the United States, for 1849. 13

appropriate, often injures the appearance of the grounds, and
is, after a few years, vmder the necessity of cutting down
and planting anew. The greatest error is in not setting out
more evergreen shrubs, such as Kalmias, Rhododendrons, &c.

COMMERCIAL GARDENING.

There is but little change to note in commercial gardening.
The demand for trees continues active, and the various nur-
series appear to improve in the arrangement and good keeping
of their grounds. The onward progress of horticultural art
demands more of system than has hitherto obtained among
the majority of nurserymen ; and, as a good reputation is the
most valuable capital he can possess, it becomes an object of
some importance to obtain it. In consequence of this, we
now jfind in every good nursery plantations of bearing trees,
and specimens of beautiful shrubs, for the inspection of the
purchaser and the information of the proprietor. Without
such, it would be almost impossible, at the present day, to
succeed.

The number of new fruits is rapidly increasing ; and, al-
though some of the older sorts have been struck off by the
Pomological Congress, yet the accessions have been large,
and the catalogue must continue to increase until an oppor-
tunity has been afforded to fully test their qualities ; but, as
this is a work of time, it will require a long period before
they can be placed on the rejected list. Nurserymen should
feel it a duty they owe to themselves, as well as the public,
to try all, and retain only the good. In this way many
worthless varieties will be eventually discarded from culti-
vation.

In New York, Messrs. Prince, Parsons, Thorburn, Hogg,
and Dunlap, have made additions to their establishments, Mr.
Thorburn having erected a new house for the cultivation of
roses.

Around Boston there is some improvement. Messrs. Hov-
ey & Co. have just completed a very large and fine plant-
house, — ninety-six feet long, thirty wide, and sixteen high, —
and now nearly filled with plants. Our Horticultural Reports

14 Observations upon the Season of 1849.

will show the variety of flowers and fruits which are culti-
vated by our principal nurserymen.

HORTICULTURAL LITERATURE.

The year has been one of great dearth in literary produc-
tions. The only works have been a new edition of Thomas's
American Fruit Culturist, enlarged and improved, which
we shall notice in our next ; Transactions of the New York
State Agricultural Society^ for 1848 ; Cole's Aonerican Fruit
Book ; a Practical Treatise on the Management of Fruit
Trees, by Geo. Jacques ; and three numbers of our Fruits
of America, (Nos. 7, 8, and 9.) The three others, completing
volume one, will appear in the course of the spring.

Art. II. Observations upon the Season of 1849, with a
Brief Review of some of the more Remarkable Varieties of
Fruit ivhich have been Introduced or Exhibited during the
Year. By Hon. J. S. Cabot, Salem, Mass.

A DISPOSITION to exaggerate the present seems to exhibit
itself, more especially with respect to those occurrences of
the seasons that appear, at the time, a departure from their
usual routine. We are apt to think and speak of any great
degree of heat or cold, moisture or dryness, as very unusual
events, when a cursory examination of a record of the
weather, for but a limited number of years, would probably
show such as of constant recurrence. But making all due
allowance for the manifestation of this disposition with
respect to the vicissitudes of its seasons, the past year may
properly be considered remarkable, — as to these vicissitudes
have generally been attributed, either justly or unjustly,
some very marked and unusual effects ] and it has become a
subject of inquiry, not uninteresting to horticulturists at
least, to what one of its characteristics, or to what combina-
nation of its peculiarities, these eff"ects should be ascribed.
The absence of a sufficient number of facts forbids any very

Observations upon the Season of 1849. 15

satisfactory theory with regard to this matter ; and the most
that is allowable is such a presumption as the facts in our
possession will best warrant. A consideration of this sub-
ject, and other purposes, requires a brief epitome of the past
year, including therein the last month of 1848, or rather the
mention of some of its most noticeable characteristics.

The weather of December, 1848, until the 21st of that
month, was very warm, especially from the 15th to the 20th,
when a Clematis Sieboldw in my garden made new shoots
more than two inches in length ; but on the 22d and 23d
there was a snow-storm, and on the 24th it became very
cold, the mercury on the morning of that day standing at
4° below 0.

In the course of January, 1849, the mercury fell to below
0 on three different mornings ; the lowest point reached (in
this city) being 8° below on the morning of the 11th; the
mean of the whole month being 6*^ less than the mean of
January, 1848,

The weather through February was very cold ; the ther-
mometer at zero, or below, on six different times in the
course of the month ; lowest, on the 16th, when the mercury
fell (in this city) to 8° below 0, and in some places in the
vicinity much lower. The ground, through both January
and February, was generally covered with snow.

In March no very striking peculiarities were noticed.

The weather of April was cold and disagreeable. Ice was
formed at six different times in the course of the month, and,
as late as the 21st, the ground was frozen hard on the surface.

On the 12th of May there was a frost. But little rain fell
during this or the preceding month, and both were distin-
guished by an almost uninterrupted succession of easterly
winds, always prevalent at this season, of great violence.

June was warm, with some very hot weather from the 19th
to the 24th. In the middle of each of those days, the mer-
cury rose from 90° to 95° in the shade, and in some places
reached 100°.

In July there was much very hot weather, and but little
or no rain. With the exception of five very slight showers,

16 Observations upon the Season of 1849.

most of them scarcely sufficing to lay the dust, and none
more than to moisten the surface of the earth, no rain fell
(in this city) from the 5th of June until the 31st of July; a
drought unusual so early in the season, and one that could
hardly fail to produce very serious effects upon vegetation.
On the 31st of July and 1st of August there were copious
showers; and from that time to the present the rains have
been frequent and abundant. The closing months of the
year have been characterized only by the customary vicissi-
tudes of the seasons, and the purposes in hand require no
particular notice of them.

Early in the season, the numerous fruit buds gave promise
of an abundant crop of apples and pears ; but by the middle
to last of May, appearances indicated that the trees, from
some cause, had received serious injury. Their fiower-buds
opened weakly and imperfectly, or, as was more usually the
case, withered and fell off without expanding. The foliage,
too, of the fruit trees, when it did appear, was thin ; and in
some cases the shoots of the growth of the previous year
were killed. An examination of the flower-buds of the
peach and cherry, made at a much earlier period of the
year, in February and March, indicated severe injury or (Jp-
struction. Neither was the injury experienced wholly con-
fined to the different species of fruit trees. The elms shew
by their thin and weak foliage early in the season, and by
the greatly diminished number of their seeds, that they had
not escaped ; while the common border-flowers, herbaceous
plants and box edgings of the gardens, passed the winter
more safely than usual.

The crop of apples and pears, through the State, and es-
pecially in the eastern part of it, may be said, from some
cause, to have almost entirely failed ; although, in some sec-
tions of it, to a limited extent, these fruits seem to have
escaped injury. In the County of Berkshire apples are re-
ported as abundant, and pears in Plymouth. A few gardens
or orchards in the vicinity of Boston, and a single tree scat-
tered here and there in various localities, furnished their usual
supply of fruit ; but these instances are but exceptions to the
truth of the remark.

Observations upon the Season of 1849. 17

The peach trees in the vicinity of Boston were seriously
injured, and the crop destroyed ; though in some places, not
very remote, they seem to have escaped harm. In this city
the peaches were entirely destroyed, and much of the last
year's growth of the trees killed ; yet within a few miles to
the northward, from trees standing, in two instances at least.
on bleak and exposed hills, an abundant crop was gathered.
In the interior of the State it is understood that the sup-
ply of this fruit was liberal.

The cherries were to a great extent destroyed. Plums
were nearly or quite as abundant as usual. In the other
States of New England, except Maine, and in New York,
the apples, it is represented, failed, or produced much less
than an average crop. In Maine, on the contrary, and in the
British Provinces, it is said they were unusually abundant ;
and while here and in this neighborhood the pears were so
almost universally destroyed, it is stated that in Portsmouth
and its vicinity there was never a better yield of that fruit.

For this general destruction of the fruit, though univer-
sally attributed to some of the effects of the previous winter,
different specific causes have been assigned. Some persons
have imputed it to the severe cold of the winter only : oth-
ers have regarded the late frosts of April, or the blasting in-
fluences of the very cold easterly winds of the spring, as the
more immediate cause ; while still others, who were disposed
to regard neither of these supposed causes as satisfactorily
accounting for the various phenomena exhibited, have as-
signed to the combined effects of the warm weather of De-
cember, and the severe cold of the last of that month and of
the succeeding January and February, the destruction expe-
rienced. Although it is not supposed that the cause last
suggested will accord with the experience of every fruit-
grower for the past season, but will leave some facts unac-
counted for, yet it is believed that it will better correspond
with effects generally witnessed than any other that has been
suggested, leaving the explanation of such facts as militate
with this supposition to be sought for in some peculiar cir-
cumstances of each case. With respect to these instances of

VOL, XVI. NO. I. 3

18 Observations upon the Season of 1849.

exemption from injury, as in the western part of this State,
and in Maine, or of single trees and gardens in various places,
such explanation may perhaps be found in the circumstance
that the former did not feel the influence of the warmth of
December, and the latter were in some way sheltered from
the severe cold succeeding it ; and the escape of the latter,
too, — even the peach tree, usually most susceptible of inju-
ry,— may be owing, from a very cold and exposed situation,
to their exemption from the exciting effects of unseasonable
warmth. The cold of the past winter was not greater or of
longer continuance than has been frequently experienced ;
neither were the frosts of the spring more severe or later in
that season than have repeatedly occurred, without either
being followed, heretofore, by such disastrous consequences ;
while such a combination of great warmth, followed so im-
mediately by very severe cold, has, it is believed, rarely
taken place.

The destruction of the fruit crop has caused a two-fold
disappointment ; for it has not only deprived us of our fruit
and the pecuniary compensation arising from this branch of
culture, but it has prevented or deferred for a season the test-
ing, this year, as was confidently hoped and expected, of the
quality of many of the new varieties of recent introduction.
Scarcely any new pears, or other fruits of foreign origin,
have been exhibited this year at the rooms of the Horticul-
tural Society, or submitted for examination to its committees.
At the annual exhibition of the society, a few pears were
exhibited that have not, it is presumed, before produced
fruit in this country. Among such are now remembered the
St. Nicholas, from the Hon. M. P. Wilder ; and Josephine of
Malines, a variety in high repute in Europe, from the Presi-
dent of the Society, and Mr. Washburn, of Plymouth. So far
as an opinion could be formed from tasting a single specimen,
and that, perhaps, prematurely gathered from the tree, the
former of these possesses valuable properties ; the latter are
not yet in maturity, and their quality has not, it is believed,
yet been tested.

Another pear, that, though heretofore known in New York,

Observations upon the Season of 1849. 19

fruited for the first time in this vicinity the past season, de-
serves a particular notice, because it will, it is thought, from
its size, beauty, reported productiveness, and good quality,
prove highly desirable ; that is, the Swan's Orange or Onon-
daga pear. Specimens of this pear, grown in three different
places, — though some of them were small and inferior, as
was to be expected from trees bearing for the first time, —
were all good; and others, raised by W. F. Gardner, Esq., of
this city, from grafts inserted on the top limbs of an old tree,
(on the quince,) were of large size and great beauty, — equal-
ling, in these respects, any brought from New York, and
quite or very nearly of first quality. Further opportunities
have, the past season, been afforded for trying " Knight's
Monarch." A single specimen of this variety was exhibited
in 1846, by the Hon. M. P. Wilder ; but it was so small and in-
different, that that gentleman, at that time, though his doubts
have since been set at rest, questioned its correctness. Others,
raised by Messrs. Hovey, were exhibited in 1848. It is a
juicy, melting, brisk, sub-acid fruit ; and, though it will nev-
er, in this country, be thought worthy of its European repu-
tation, may be considered a desirable acquisition.

Although the season was so unpropitious to the production
of a crop of apples and pears, yet some of the specimens of
pears produced were of unusual size and beauty, — fully
equalling, if not surpassing, anything ever before placed upon
the tables of the Horticultural Society. Whether this supe-
riority is to be attributed to increase of skill and attention to
their cultivation, or to be sought for in other causes, no means
are possessed for judging, though it is fair to presume that
the former has essentially contributed to it. The same re-
mark is no way applicable to the apples exhibited, that, on
the contrary, have been generally inferior ; and it is a fact
especially noticeable, that the apples have been, the past
year, not only very few in number, but also, — probably ow-
ing to that very circumstance, — almost uniformly infested
with the curculio.

Plums without a name, of very fine quality, were sent, the
past season, to the rooms of the Horticultural Society, from

20 Observations upon the Season of 1849.

Maine. This variety was, it is presumed, the McLaughlin ;
bearing a strong resemblance to the Green Gage in appear-
ance, almost equalling that variety in excellence, and is one
that will probably prove the best seedling plum yet produced.

While to most species of fruits the past season has been so
uncongenial, to grapes cultivated in the open air it has seemed
to be peculiarly propitious, — the different varieties of such
having attained an unusual degree of perfection. Even the
Black Hamburgh has in some instances ripened its fruit in the
open air. Sweetwaters have been free from mildew, and of
unusual excellence ; and those of native origin, as the Isa-
bella, have attained to perfect maturity with berries of a
large size, deep color, and fine flavor. The absence of rain
in June and July may account for this greater degree of per-
fection, and this exemption from blight or mildew to which
the grape is so subject. Whether any analogy really exists
between the mildew on grapes and the canker or blight on
the St. Michael pear, is not known ; yet it was a subject
for remark, that the St. Michael (White Doyenne) pears
were, the past season, unusually fair. Perhaps some peculiar
state of the atmosphere that causes the one may tend to pro-
duce the other ; and the exemption, wholly or partially, of
both from certain effects may be attributed to the same cause.

After the experience of another year, — a year, too, pecul-
iarly favorable to other varieties, — the Diana grape, a seed-
ling raised by Mrs. Crehore, of Milton, seems to maintain its
relative superiority over the other varieties of native origin.
Notwithstanding its berries are small, and produced in small
compact bunches, yet the sweetness of its berries, their free-
dom from that hardness of pulp and foxy taste so character-
istic of American grapes, and other good qualities, justifies
for it a claim of superiority ; and, with its earlier season of
maturity, entitles the Diana to be considered as the best
grape adapted to culture in the open air in New England
that has as yet been produced.

A general statement, at the end of the year, in a periodi-
cal devoted to horticulture, of the weather of the season that
has just closed, together with some notice of the horticultural

Observations upon the Season of 1849. 21

products of that year, — especially of any novelty that may
have been introduced, — may be, on several accounts, desira-
ble or advantageous. It would be, at least, convenient for
subsequent reference, or for the purpose of future comparison.
The preceding very imperfect summary of the past season is
placed at your disposal, for such purposes as you may
choose, — to be used or not, as you think proper.

Salem, December, 1849.

Such a communication scarcely requires comment from us.
It is one of the most valuable retrospects of the year just
past, either generally or pomologically considered ; and that
portion of it which discusses the peculiarities of the weather
must furnish a subject of reflection to every cultivator. Such
a disastrous year for fruit has not been known scarcely with-
in the remembrance of that renowned personage, the ''oldest
inhabitant;" and it is important that all the facts which have
any reference to it should be made known, that, if possible,
the true cause of such destruction may be solved. And we
hope that any of our correspondents, who can add anything
to confirm what Mr. Cabot has advanced as the probable
cause of the great injury to the buds of fruit trees, the last
year, will communicate the same.

We have already alluded to the loss of the crop of fruit,
(XV, p. 339,) and remarked that we " should not have the
opportunity for at least a year " of testing many new varieties
of pears. Still, there have been some fruits, not precisely
fully proved, which have been produced in fine perfection,
and some of them Mr. Cabot has briefly noticed. What
gives us exceeding gratification is, to learn that he has so
high an opinion of the Swan's Orange pear. We have al-
ways felt confident it would sustain the high reputation we
gave it, in our description, (Vol. XIII, p. 247,) as well as in
our Fruits of America, notwithstanding some cultivators
seemed unwilling to allow it to be anything more than a
good pear.

In conclusion, we would hope that other amateur cultiva-
tors may be induced to give us the results of their experience

22 A Chapter on Planting Trees.

the past year. They need not shrink from doing so for fear
they have nothing to communicate ; every one is capable of
adding something to our stock of information. It is only
through such means that we can arrive at satisfactory results.
—Ed.

Art. III. A Chapter on Planting Trees. By Samuel
Walker, Esq., President of the Massachusetts Horticultu-
ral Society.

1. It requires two persons to plant a tree properly.

2. The soil should be well prepared by deep trenching ;
pulverized and made rich by compost manure, before the
planting is commenced.

3. The holes for receiving the trees should be sufficiently
large to receive the roots entire, without bending or crowd-
ing them.

4. Trees should 7iever be planted more than an inch deep-
er than they were in the nursery. Deep planting is often
fatal, atid ahvays injurious.

5. All broken roots should be pared off smoothly with a
sharp knife, on the under side.

6. The tree when planted, should be held upright in the
hole prepared to receive it, and the roots spread out into
their natural position ; the soil should then be carefully
introduced around and between all the roots arid fibres, until
the hole is completely filled up.

7. After the tree is thus planted, press the soil gently, but
firmly down with your foot. Water is not often necessary.
If the season should be very dry, for some seven to ten days,
after the planting in the Spring, one generous supply of rain
or pond water, that has been exposed to the rays of the sun
for some twenty-four hours, may be beneficial, if some litter or
other such material is placed around the roots at the same time.

8. Trees planted in the Fall should not be watered, —
the autumnal rains will be all-sufficient. Newly transplant-
ed trees are like silk animals, they want care and attention ;

A Chapter on Planting Trees. 23

— ^but little food, and no more water than will keep the soil
moist. It should be borne in mind, that a tree can be
drowned, starved, surfeited, b?mised, and in other careless
ways brought to an " untimely end,^'' or, what is worse, ren-
dered "a cumberer of the ground."

9. The Fall and the Spring are suitable periods for trans-
planting all kinds of Fruit and Ornamental trees. Ever-
greens succeed best when removed in the spring.

10. I should prefer to remove large trees in the fall,
(although they generally do well when transplanted in the
spring,) as the earth, during the winter, becomes settled
about the roots, and they are ready to throw out fibres in
the spring. A few leaves, or some litter, should be placed
around the stem of the tree thus transplanted, and some
stones put thereon, to keep the covering from being carried
away by the wind. In June, the stones and litter may be
removed.

11. The roots to large trees when transplanted, are not
generally as long in proportion to their size, as to smaller
ones ; it is therefore best to take off a part of the top, to cor-
respond in some measure to the loss of the roots.

12. When a tree has been a long time out of the soil, and
becomes more or less dry, — it is well to bury the entire tree,
" root and branch," in the earth, bringing the soil into con-
tact with every part of the plant, and let it remain buried
for some seven to ten days. Some cloudy, or rainy day,
take it up and plant it ; this is much better than a cold bath
for its roots, with the burning rays of the sun on its top, for
twenty-four hours, as is sometimes prescribed.

Roxhury, Nov. 1849.

It gives us great pleasure to offer such advice from so
good a source. Mr. Walker informs us in a note, that the
above article was " drawn up for the particular use of a
friend," but upon a " second reading," he thought it might
meet the wants and wishes of many enquirers, and conse-
quently sent us the " rough draft," for such alteration, cor-
rection, and addition as we deemed advisable, to make it of
suflficient interest to our readers.

24 The Frederica Bremer Pear.

It is unnecessary for us to say that we think the •' rough
draft " a good one, which we can safely recommend to the
very careful perusal of all who are planting trees, whether
new beginners, or those who have already had some experi-
ence in such operations, assured that they will not plant a
tree afterwards with any less certainty of its doing well.

And now that Mr. Walker has so thoroughly gone over
the whole ground and laid out the work, will not other cul-
tivators come to his aid, and complete what he has so well
begun. We have here Twelve Rules for Planting trees, and
the next step is, that we should have at least Twelve Rules, for
their Treatment after planting, — and even more ; each kind
of tree, as the pear, apple, plum, peach, &c., should have
their management separately detailed, requiring, as they do
in many respects, different pruning and treatment. We
think we may promise our readers, that Mr. Walker has not
done with the subject, for he never does a thing by halves ;
and we shall anxiously look for an article on the culture of
the pear, which he so well understands, as one of the papers
which will go to complete the work he has commenced.

We can name other friends, who we are sure will assist in
such a good cause ; and if our hint is not enough to draw
them out, we shall be obliged to supply a part of the infor-
mation from our own experience. — Ed.

Art. IV. The Frederica Bremer Pear : a neiv native Seed-
ling, with so7ne Account of its Origin, and an engraving of
the Fruit. By Dr. W. D. Brinckle, Philadelphia.

At the Pomological Conventions at Syracuse and New
York the last autumn, many new seedling pears, apples,
plums, &c. were exhibited, some of which appeared to pos-
sess fine qualities, while a greater part of them were inferior
fruits. At Syracuse we did not have time to examine them,
owing to the short session, and the amount of labor to be

The Frederica Bremer Pear. 25

performed to finish up the proceedings at an early hour.
But at New York, we were not so hurried for time, and
having been upon the committee appointed to examine seed-
lings, we had all those of any promise brought immediately
to our notice. The report of that committee, of which Dr.
Brinckle was chairman, will probably appear in the publish-
ed Pi'oceedings of the Convention, when we shall notice it
at length. We now have the pleasure of drawing the at-
tention of pomologists and cultivators to one of the new
pears which came before the committee, as will be seen by
the following communication : —

My Dear Sir: Did you notice the Frederica Bremer
Pear, at the recent Pomological Convention in New York ?
Was it not a native variety which the committee on seed-
ling fruit passed by, on account of its being in an immature
state ? All I recollect concerning it is, that the owner hand-
ed me one, and requested me to keep it till it was in a
condition for eating, and then try it. I ate it this day
week, and found it to be a most delicious pear. Not being
prepossessed much with its appearance, when I saw it at the-
convention, I neglected to make the necessary enquiries in
regard to its origin, &c. But before it was cut even, its
outward aspect became materially improved. Perhaps the
enclosed outline {fig. 1,) and description, which I took on
the 13tli inst., from the specimen in my possession, may
assist in recalling it to your recollection. Can you inform
me by whom it was exhibited.

Fruit, above medium size, two and three quarter inches
long, and two and a half broad : Form, obovate : Skin, of a
smooth green color, (when seen at the Convention,) but
when mature, of a fine clear yellow : Stem, one inch long,,
and one eighth of an inch thick, inserted somewhat oblique-
ly in a slight cavity : Eye, small, closed, and set in a narrow
basin : Flesh, white, fine, buttery and melting : Flavor,
saccharine, and delicious : Seed, small, black. Ripe in Octo-
ber.— Respectfully yours, W. D. Brinckle, Philadelphia,
Oct. 13, 1849.

VOL. XVI. NO. I. 4

26 The Frederica Bremer Pear.

This notice of this pear by Dr. Brinckle, came to hand just
after we had made a drawing and description from another of
the specimens, which was placed in our hands at the conven-
tion, by the same gentleman who requested Dr. B. to take one.
We, like him, saw nothing in the pear of promising appear-
ance, its very smooth, shining, dull green skin reminding
us much of many poor pears, whose outward aspect was ex-

Fig. 1 . Frederica Bremer Pear.

ceedingly similar, and although we laid the specimen aside
for trial with many others, we did not do so with any expec-
tation of finding it worthy of a description. But in the
course of a week we found its appearance entirely changed j
the green skin had now become of a fine citron hue, and
upon a pressure of the thumb, its touch at once foretold the
melting texture of its flesh ; to our surprise, we found it a

The Frederica Bremer Pear. 27

very fine flavored and excellent pear, well worthy the char-
acter given it by Dr. Brinckle, whose description of it we
have slightly amended, our specimen being more perfect
than his.

We immediately requested our correspondent to keep us in-
formed of any further information which he might procure,
respecting its origin and history, and subsequently he fa-
vored us with the following account of it, obtained directly
from the gentleman who presented the fruit for exhibition,
Mr. J. C. Hastings, of Oneida County, New York : —

In regard to the Frederica Bremer Pear, I have received
an interesting letter from Mr. Hastings, in which he says,
" I sent samples of this pear, a year since, to the exhibition
at New York. The samples sent this year were picked too
early, and did not mature well. Owing to a severe drought,
they did not obtain more than two thirds their usual size
this season. I have been familiar with the pear for several
years, and have had an opportunity of comparing it with
many of the leading varieties which are classed by our Po-
mological Conventions as of first quality, and in my judg-
ment, it will not suffer in comparison with many of them.
I have no doubt of its being a seedling ; it having originated
near me, from seed brought from Connecticut, about forty
years since ; and I think it but little known in this vicinity,
except in the immediate neighborhood of the original trees.
My attention was first called to the pear, by seeing it offered
for sale as the Virgalieu, a name which has been in common
use for all pears, (from ordinary to good,) in this region, until
within a few years past. As I was about sending it to the
exhibition, I happened to say something about giving it a
name, and a lady present immediately suggested the name of
Frederica Bremer, one so much in accordance with my own
feelings, that I did not hesitate to adopt it. The tree is a
good grower, and bears well every season. A few barrels
were sent to the Boston market this fall." — Respectfully
yours, W. D. B., December 10, 1849.

28 The Diana Grape.

The general appearance of the pear is much like the
Heathcot, and after eating it we thought it might possibly
be that variety, somewhat changed from locality and soil.
But the fact that Mr. Hastings had known the tree for forty
years, at once sets at rest all doubts on that point. We
think it may be safely classed among the best pears, and
we feel indebted to Dr. Brinckle for the exertions he has
made, to ascertain the above particulars of its history. — Ed.

Art. V. The Diana Grape. By the Editor.

One of the greatest fields open to the enthusiastic horti-
culturist, is that of the growth of seedlings of our native
grapes, with a view to the production of new and superior
varieties. In other fruits, numerous new and greatly improv-
ed kinds have rewarded the labors of cultivators, while for
thirty years, since the introduction of the Isabella and Ca-
tawba, scarcely a single grape has been raised of any value,
except the Diana which we are now about to notice.

The Isabella was brought from the South in 1816, and
the Catawba was introduced to notice about the same time.
From their size, excellence and hardiness, they soon became
extensively disseminated throughout the country, taking the
place of all other kinds for general cultivation. The foreign
grapes, after repeated trials, had been found so uncertain in
their crop, and withal requiring protection in winter, that
their cultivation was quite given up, except in some of the
sheltered gardens of our populous cities ; where, from the
more genial climate, and the exemption of the berries from
mildew, they have been, and still continue to be, success-
fully raised. But although the Isabella and the Catawba
have proved such popular varieties, the uncertainty of the
crop, particularly of the latter, in most seasons, in the north-
ern and eastern states, — as well as the somewhat pulpy char-
acter of their flesh, and slight harshness of flavor, compared
with the fine foreign kinds, — has prevented them from be-

The Diana Grape. 29

coming general favorites ; and a grape, even if possessing no
better qualities than these, but equally hardy, and sufficiently
early to mature its fruit with certainty in the New England
states, has been a great desideratum. That desideratum, we
are glad to say, has now been more than realized in the pro-
duction of the Diana.

The Diana was first brought to notice in our Magazine,
and will be found briefly described in our volume for 1844,
(X, p. 242.) We had the pleasure of seeing the first speci-
mens which were publicly exhibited from the original vine,
in 1843, and gave a short account of it at that time, (Vol. IX,
p. 432.) But as Ave could not fully judge of its real merits
from the inspection of two bunches, we reserved a full notice
of it till we could speak more fully in regard to its qualities.
This opportunity has not occurred till the past autumn,
Avhen we had a fine crop on a vine in our own collection,
growing side by side with the Isabella, Catawba, and several
other native kinds.

The Diana, when first exhibited, as will be seen in the
interesting letter of Mr. Crehore, which we have the pleas-
ure of presenting to our readers, was shown for the purpose
of ascertaining the name of the variety ; for although Mrs.
Crehore raised the vine from seed. Squire Seaver, of Roxbu-
ry, " had no doubt it was the Catawba," and she was natu-
rally desirous of ascertaining whether it was in reality that
variety ; and we well remember that some of the gentlemen
who first saw it, remarked, that though it was ripe so early
as the 23d of September, it was doubtful whether it was not
the Catawba, only grown in some warm and sheltered local-
ity. Its great resemblance to the Catawba favored this im-
pression so much, that after an inspection of the original
vine, when in fruit, the succeeding year, some of our amateur
cultivators were convinced it was only that variety.

Mrs. Crehore, from the high opinion we had expressed of
the variety, and the desire to possess it, kindly sent us a
few of the cuttings in the fall of 1843. From them we
raised four or five plants, in pots, in the summer of 1844.
But from the idea entertained by many, that it was only the

30 The Diana Grape.

Catawba, we neglected our vines. Two of them were turn-
ed out into the ground in the spring of 1846, and they did
not again attract any attention till the fall of 1848, when,
passing the vine after the leaves had partly fallen, we
discovered a few straggling clusters of grapes. Naturally
curious to know whether the variety was as fine as we
originally esteemed it, we tasted some of the berries, and, to
our great surprise, we found them perfectly delicious, far
excelling the Catawba. We then regretted that we should
not have earlier ascertained, and made known, its great
merits. Last fall we had a full crop of fine large clusters,
ripe fully a week before the Isabella, and so superior to
that variety that they obtained the prize of the Massachu-
setts Horticultural Society, as the finest native grape.

Upon our application to Mrs. Crehore, for some account of
the origin of the Diana, we received the following communi-
cation : —

Dear Sir, — My mother, (Mrs. Crehore,) having received
a letter from you, asking for some information in regard to
the " Diana Grape," she wishes me to give you some account
of it. I do not know that I can give you much information
which will be interesting, but I will try to answer the ques-
tions which you ask in regard to it. In the first place, the
Diana is without doubt a seedling from the Cataicha, though
possibly it may not be. In the fall of 1831 or '32, my mother
received some grapes from the late Squire Seaver, of Rox-
bury ; they were so fine, that she (not then knowing but the
seeds of grapes would produce the same variety,) planted
some of the seeds the following spring. Only one seed
vegetated, and that did not come up till late in the season.
In 1834, being about making some alterations about the
house, the vine standing very near it, and being in the way,
it was removed to its present location.

At the time of its removal it was about three feet high.
Standing where it was sometimes exposed to the depredation
of cattle, and not receiving much (or any) attention, it grew
very slowly, and did not bear any fruit till 1838 ; it was then

The Diana Grape. 31

very bushy, never having been pruned at all, {except by cat-
tle). After the leaves had fallen, we found (near the root,)
one bunch of grapes, which were very small, but good.
The following year it produced some ten or twelve bunches,
which would compare favorably with the succeeding crops,
excepting the bunches were much more loose than those of
the succeeding years after the vine was pruned. The three
following years it continued to increase in productiveness,
though the fruit was small in quantity, compared with the
great growth of wood. (As you have some of the vines, I
suppose you have noticed its great luxuriance, and richness
of the foliage.)

In the fall of 1842, the vine was a perfect forest of wood,
and at that time, or the following spring, it was pruned for
the first time. In 1843, (you will remember,) my mother
exhibited the fruit at the Horticultural room in Boston ; that
year the fruit was very abundant. Since then the original
vine has produced and ripened fruit every year till the last.
Owing to the severity of the last winter, (or some other
cause,) the body of the vine cracked open, and died down
to the root. Late in the season it threw out shoots from the
root, two of which grew to the length of fifteen and eighteen
feet.

I do not know that it is necessary for me to say any thing
about the time of ripening of the fruit ; we have usually
found ours very good by the 1st of September, though not
fully ripe till the 10th or 20th of the month. At the exhibi-
tion at Dedham, Mr. French, of Braintree, remarked to me,
that the Diana Grape had improved in flavor. I do not
think those exhibited by my mother, there, were any better,
if quite as good, as some I have eaten from the old vine.
Whether they would be as good from a young vine, as from
one which had fruited a few years, I do not know.

It may seem strange that Mrs. Crehore did not sooner ex-
hibit some of the fruit of the " Diana Grape," but the fact
was, she did not know that it was a new variety, though she
knew she raised it from the seed ; and when she took some
of the fruit to the Horticultural room, it was for the purpose

32 The Diana Grape.

of finding out the variety. Many persons had tasted the
fruit, and thought it very fine, but did not (of course) know
the variety ; some said it looked like the Catawba, but did
not taste like it ; and others thought it a superior loild grape,
though no one, learned in fruit matters, had probably ever
seen it till it was exhibited in Boston. When writing about
the origin of the Diana, I should have mentioned that I took
some of the fruit to Squire Seaver, for the purpose of ascer-
taining whether the kind sent to my mother, and the Diana,
were the same. It was so many years since the grapes were
sent, that the old gentleman could not remember any thing
about it, but said no doubt they were the Catawba, as he
had never cultivated any other variety.

You see I have written a long, rambling, and imperfect
communication, which you will please excuse. If you can
glean any facts from the mass, which will be of use to you,
I shall be satisfied. — / am yours respectfully, John A. Cre-
HORE, Milton, December 23, 1849.

Mr. Crehore's letter is so full in regard to all the particu-
lars of the origin of the Diana, that we have only to conclude
our notice of it with a description of the fruit, which our
engraving (fig. 2.) accurately represents: —

Vine, vigorous, making rather slender wood when young :
but growing more rapidly after it has attained age.

Wood, light brown, rather long-jointed.

Leaves, similar to the Catawba, without lobes.

Bunch, medium size, about four inches long, without
shoulders : Berries, medium size, round, closely set, forming
a compact cluster, of a delicate pale red color, with a grey-
ish bloom, not so dark as the Catawba : Flesh, with scarcely
any pulp, juicy, rich and vinous, with a high, delicious
flavor : Seeds, generally two, rather small. Ripe from a
week to ten days before the Isabella.

It is a most abundant bearer, and has less of the taste pe-
culiar to our native grape, than any other variety. It also
possesses a peculiarity which we have not noticed in other
sorts ; as early as the 1st of September, when the berries

The Diana Grape.

33

first change to a grayish tinge, they are quite sweet, and
agreeable to the taste, but they do not acquire the high
flavor which constitutes its great excellence until they as-

Fig. 2. Diana Grape.

sume their full color, when it is one of the handsomest grapes
we have ever seen,

5

VOL. XVI. NO. I.

34 Pomological Gossip.

The only vine which has fruited out of the vicinity of
Boston, is one in the collection of H. W. Sargent, Esq., of
Fishkill Landing, N. Y. We sent Mr. Sargent one of our
vines in the spring of 1845, and we are glad to learn it has
produced a good crop of grapes the last two years. — Ed.

Art. YI. Pomological Gossip. By the Editor.

The increased attention which is now given to Pomolo-
gy, has induced us to attempt to treasure up for our readers
monthly, under this head, much of that information which,
though apparently trifling, is still often too valuable to be
lost. At the weekly meetings of the Fruit Committee of
the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, discussions often
spring up, in relation to fruits presented before them, which
elicit much useful information, and which are not unworthy
of being fully reported ; and conversations frequently take
place among amateur cultivators, at occasional meetings,
which are not less valuable and interesting. It will be our
object in this article, to gather the substance of such meet-
ings ; and, with what comes to us in the way of Notices of
fruit, Enquiries, Criticisms, (fcc, to present our Pomological
readers with such monthly gossip as will not fail to interest
them more deeply in their favorite pursuit.

It is to be regretted that the officers of the two Pomo-
logical Conventions, held last fall, in whose hands was placed
the duty of publishing their Transactions^ have not been able
to issue the same. Much of the interest which attaches to
them is lost by so much delay. We do not say this with
any view to find fault, because we know, so far as the Po-
mological Convention at Syracuse is concerned, that the
Report was placed in the printer's hands in one week after
the meeting adjourned ; we only refer to it, to show how
important it is that these Reports should be published as
speedily as is consistent with accuracy.

Pomological Gossip. 35

At Syracuse, Mr. Denniston, the great plum raiser of Alba-
ny, presented a great variety of plums, among which were a
large number of seedlings ; none of which however appear-
ed very remarkable, unless we except one, which he has
called the Madison. Its greatest merit is its lateness, from
the first to the middle of October. It is a roundish oval
fruit, with an orange-yellow skin, dotted with deep crimson
on the sunny side ; flesh, yellow, rich, saccharine and excel-
lent. The variety is a great bearer, and will undoubtedly
prove a fine late fruit.

In our notice of the meeting of the Pomological Congress,
we had only space to give the List of Fruits adopted for gen-
eral cultivation ; intending to notice the best of those which
" give promise of being worthy to be added to the list," and
also the names of those which were rejected when the re-
port was received. We therefore now add the names of
the fruits which were reported by the General Fruit Com-
mittee as promising well.

PEARS.

Ananas d'Ete, Jealousie de Fontenay Vendee,

Beurre d'Anjou, Elizabeth (Van Mons),

Brandywine, Pratt,

Chancellor, Striped Madeleine,

Doyenne d'Et6, Ott,

Duchesse of Orleans, Paradise of Automme,

Doyenne Boussock, Van Assene.

PLUMS.

Rivers's Favorite, St. Martin's Quetsche.

McLaughlin,

STRAWBERRIES.

Burr's New Pine, Jenney's Seedling.

RASPBERRY.

Knevet's Giant.

GRAPE.

Diana, (native).

A very interesting discussion took place upon the motion
to add the Black Prince Strawberry and some other kinds, to
the list of kinds for general cultivation ; and as the remarks

36 Domestic Notices.

of gentlemen were taken down by a reporter, we shall refer
to them hereafter.

Some fine specimens of apples were presented at New
York, by Mr. J. Battey, of Keeseville, N. Y., one of which
was a remarkably beautiful sweet apple, called by him the
Northern Golden Sweet, but which the Committee suggest-
ed should be altered to Northern Sweet, as there is already
a Golden Sweet. The fruit is of full size, nearly round,
and with a rich, deep golden yellow skin, slightly tinged with
pale red in the sun. Flesh, rich, sugary, and excellent.
The committee thought highly of the variety. Mr. Battey
gave us some of his specimens, from which we intended to
present a drawing and full description ; but some one ap-
propriating them to their own use, we are prevented from
doing so till another year.

The Canandaigua Pear was the name proposed to be
given to a large, very handsome and excellent variety, ex-
hibited at the Pomological Congress, in New York, by the
Committee on Seedling Fruits. It was shown under the
name of Catherine, by which term it is known in western
New York, but as there is already one or more pears culti-
vated under that cognomen, it was deemed proper to change
it, to prevent confusion. The pear has a great resemblance
to the Williams's Bon Chretien, or Bartlett, is about of the
same quality, and ripens at the same time, but is not quite
so large. It seems to be a variety well worthy of cultiva-
tion. Our specimens, obtained at New York, accompanied
those of the Northern Sweet apple, and a figure and full
description must be deferred till next autumn.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. Domestic JVotices.

Spring Grove Cemetery, Cincinnati. — I send you a copy of the "Annual
Report to the Lot Holders of the Cemetery of Spring Grove," for 1849.
This, with its Charter, Rules and Regulations, including the Dedication
Address, with a short history of its rise and progress, will give you a full
idea of this interesting place, with its future prospects. I hope you will
review tliem. It is a subject to which public attention should be called.

Domestic Notices. 37

The genius of our institutions seems rather opposed to the occupying of
large tracts of land for public or private parks, but perfectly in harmony
with extensive Rural Burial Grounds, which, with judicious management,
can be made to answer all the useful objects of the former, witli a decided
superior influence on tlie public morals. No city or town should, or need
be, without them. Burial grounds have been made objects of speculation,
to build up other interests. Divest them of tliis feature, and employ the
means derived from tlie sale of lots, and the burial of the dead, to protect
them. This privilege tlie living surely have a right to clami for themselves,
when through with the busy scenes of life, and there will be no want of
means to make them plantations of every tree, shrub, and flower, tliat is
beautiful and interesting, and to preserve them, and keep them, with the
grounds, in the best possible order. There surely is nothing more soothing
to tlie feeling heart, than such a resting place for the remains of departed
friends. Here the pure and holy emotions of the heart of the visiter are
likely to find vent in dwelling on the virtues of tliose who have found a
resting place there. It is hardly likely that any contemplative mind can
retire from such a consecrated ground, without being influenced to a better
and more elevated life. Can we do better than to place the subject in a
proper light before the public mind. I submit the question to you and
others, Avho have charge of Journals devoted to Horticulture, and the gen-
eral improvement of the country with a refined taste in the public mind. —
FerT/ respectfully yours, A. H. Ernst, Cincinnati, JVov. 12, 1849.

The Ohio Fruit Convention assembled at Columbus, on the 5th of De-
cember, and was organized by the appointment of A. H. Ernst, as President,
and F. R. Elliott, Secretary. Forty-eight fruit growers and nurserymen
were present, from various parts of the state.

Fine collections of apples were exhibited by Messrs. Ernst, J. F. Warder,
J. T. Warder, W. J. Clark, T. S. Humrickhouse, S. A. Barker, and others.
A discussion took place upon the subject of " plum growing, and prevention
from ravages by the Curculio," and resulted, nearly as all such discussions
do, namely, an equal division of opinion as to the various modes which have
been, from time to time, advocated in the periodicals of the day. The
meeting then proceeded to an examination of the fruit. The Secretary, Mr.
Elliott, was authorized to write out the proceedings of the Convention for
publication, and the meeting, at the close of the second day, adjourned to
the fall of 1851, to meet at such time and place as the President and Secre-
tary may direct, giving due notice of the same. — Ed.

Proceedings of the JVew York Ponwlogical Congress. — We have learned
since our article was written, in a preceding page, that the Proceedings of
this convention will not be published by the American Institute until they
make up their State Report, which will not probably be till April or May ;
this will be greatly regretted by the members who were present, as well as
by all cultivators throughout the country. In the mean time we shall
endeavor to notice some of tlie more important discussions from our own
notes. — Ed.

Southern Iowa Horticultural Society. — The best evidence of the progress

38 Domestic Notices.

of Horticulture, is in the increase of Horticultural Societies, which are
springing up in all parts of the country. We have how before us the doings
of the Southern Iowa Horticultural Society, which the Secretary informs us
" sprung up as by magic, early in the past summer, and under the most fa-
vorable auspices." The first annual exhibition was held on the 4th of Octo-
ber last, and was highly creditable for that new country. The show of ap-
ples Avas very fine, no less than thirty-three varieties of apples, — six of pears,
— and three of peaches, were exhibited by one member, and tliirty-two va-
rieties by the President. The Executive Committee justly remark, that
" the exhibition of fruits far exceeded the expectations of the most sanguine
member, both as relates to quantity and quality. We hazard nothing in
saying, that a finer exhibition of apples has never been made west of the
Alleghany mountains, and this too, by a society newly organized, and in a
region of country, that goes back only fourteen years to its first settlement.
The number of each variety was large, and the tables groaned under their
burtliens. The specimens were uncommonly large, fair, and well grown.
A large number of seedlings were exhibited, none of which were deemed
equal, or superior to other varieties of the same season, save one. That one
has been fruited the past two or three year^, and was deemed by the Com-
mittee worthy of especial notice and commendation. It was christened tlie
Comstock. It is certainly a very superior apple.

" There were but few varieties of pears upon the tables. This excellent
fi-uit is being extensively cultivated in the neighborhood, and many more va-
rieties will be in bearing anotlier season. Enough is known, to assure us
that it will succeed admirably in this region." The meeting was too late for
flowers, except tlie Dahlia, of which there was a fair display.

We congratulate tlie members on their fine exhibition, and are ready to
admit, that even the oldest of our Eastern societies could not make a richer
display of apples than that of the Iowa.

Accompanying the Constitution, &c., are the names of the ofiicers of the
Society, namely, Mr. Robert Avery, President ; Dr. John F. Henry, Vice
President ; Mr. William F. Coolbaugh, Treasurer ; Rev. A. Leonard, Cor-
responding Secretary ; L. D. Stockton, Esq., Recording Secretarij.

The list of Premiums for 1850 is appended to the Report, and we are
glad to find so high an appreciation of our Magazine, that it is offered for
the best display of apples next autumn.

The Society having elected us an honorary member, we have directed our
Magazine to be forwarded to their address for the year, and hope we may
be able to aid them in the good work, in other ways. — Ed.

Munificent Bequest for Rural Improvement. — Mr. Bromfield of Boston, re-
cently deceased, made the following munificent bequest in his will, to tlie
town of Newburyport, his native place, for improving and ornamenting the
public streets: —

" I order the sum of ten thousand dollars to be invested at interest in the
Hospital Life Insurance Company, in this city of Boston, so and in such
manner as that tlie Selectmen, or other duly authorized agents of the town
of Newburyport, for the time being, may annually receive the interest which

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 39

shall accrue, or become payable for, or in respect of said deposit ; and I di-
rect that by or in behalf of said town, tlie interest so received shall be
annually expended, one half to keeping the side walks in the public streets
of said town in good order, and tlie otiier half in tlie planting and preserving
trees in said streets, for the embellishing and ornamenting of said streets,
for the pleasure and comfort of the inhabitants."

With the exception of the liberal bequest to the Massachusetts Horticul-
tural Society, by tlie late Hon. Theodore Lyman, this is one of the most noble
gifts ever made for rural improvement, and the name of Mr. Bromfield will
ever be held in grateful remembrance by the descendants of his native town.
—Ed.

Art. n. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, JVov. 28. — Exhibited. — Fruit: From F. Tudor, two varieties
of pears, — one of them probably the Sieulle. From S. W. Cole, Cole's
Quince, Cornish Spice, and Columbia Pippin apples.

December 1. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, — the
President in the chair.

The Executive Committee reported the following appropriations for premi-
ums for 1850: —

Appropriations for Premiums, 8^c. — The Executive Coimnittee recommend
an appropriation, for 1850, of tlie sum of ^1,900 00, as follows : — Prospect-
ive Premiums, ,f 650 ; Flower Committee, $650 ; Fruit Committee, $450 :
Vegetable Committee, $150.

A copy of the American Fruit Culturist was received from J. J. Thomas,
the author, and the thanks of tlie Society voted for the same.

The report of the Vegetable Committee was read and accepted.

The Corresponding Secretary reported that the Rev. J. Leach had accept-
ed of the office of Recording Secretary.

Amos W. Stetson, Bridgewater ; Barnard D. Reynoso, South Boston ;
and G. F. Stone, Newton, were elected members.

Adjourned two weeks, to December 14.

Exhibited. — Fruit : From O. Johnson, fine specimens of Le Cure, Passe
Colmar, Echasserie and Easter Beurr6 pears ; also fine Baldwin apples.
From Jos. Stickney, handsome Coffin's Virgoulouse pears. From A. W.
Haven, fine Passe Colmar pears. From J. Lovett, fine Glout Morceau
pears, and Golden Russet apples. From D. T. Curtis, handsome Easter
Beurr6, Le Cure and Winter Nelis pears.

December 8. — Exhibited. — Fruit: From Prof E. N. Horsford, apples,
supposed to be the Vandervere and Esopus Spitzenberg.

December 15. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, —
the President in the chair.

The report of the Committee for Establishing Premiums was read, and
referred to the Executive Committee.

It was voted that the resolution on tlie records, requiring the Recording

40 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Secretary to furnish Mr. Breck with a copy of the official report of the do-
ings of the Society, be rescinded.

Adjourned one week, to December 22.

Dtcember 22. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, —
the President in tlie chair.

It was voted that the Bible presented to the Society by Samuel Appleton,
Esq., be submitted to him for his inspection and approval.

Mr. C. M. Hovey presented the Society with a copy of the Florist, from
Mr. Beck, corresponding member of London ; and the thanks of the Society
were voted to Mr. Beck, and the Corresponding Secretary authorized to
communicate a copy of the vote.

Adjourned one week, to December 29.

December 29. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, —
the President in the chair.

The report of the Committee on Fruits was read and accepted.

Mr. C. M. Hovey, from the committee appointed to alter the rules and
regulations for the exhibitions of the ensuing year, submitted the following
report, which was accepted : —

1. Gratuities shall not be awarded, for flowers, fruits, plants, or vegeta-
bles, unless the same are offered for competition for the respective premiums,
as advertised by the Society, — except for objects for which no prizes are
specified, or which may be new or rare, or show superior skill in cultiva-
tion ; and in no case shall such gratuity exceed the amount of the Society's
silver medal.

2. Any member to whom a prize has been awarded, whether in money or
plate, may receive either, of like valuation, at his option.

The Executive Conmiittee submitted the Schedule of Premiums for 1850,
which was accepted.

The President, Treasurer, and Chairman of the Committee on Finance,
were appointed a committee to settle with the Mount Auburn Cemetery.

A committee of three was appointed to nominate a Committee of Arrange-
ments for 1850, and report at the stated meeting in January. C. M. Hovey,
J. Lovett, and Dr. Wight, were appointed the committee.

It was voted tliat the list of Premiums for 1850, together with tlie premi-
ums awarded for 1849, be printed, under the direction of the President and
Secretary.

Meeting dissolved.

The following are the Reports of the Committees awarding Premiums for
1849.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FLOWERS,

AWARDING PREMIUMS FOR 1849.

The Committee submit the following Report of Premiums for 1849 : —

PREMIUMS AT THE OPENING OF THE HALL.

Pelargoniums. — Class I. — For the best 6 varieties, to J. Quant, $6 00

Class II. — For the best 6 varieties, to J. Quant, . . . 6 00

Cactuses. — For the best 6 varieties, to Hovey & Co., . . . 3 00

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

41

Calceolarias. — For the best, to A. Bowditch,

For the second best, to J. Quant,

Heaths. — For the best variety, to M. P. Wilder, .

Greenhouse Plants. — For the best display, to M. P. Wilder,
For the second best, to Hovey & Co., ....

Cut Flowers. — For the best display, to J. Nugent,

PREMIUMS DURING THE SEASON.

Camellias. — ^For the best 12 flowers, to M. P. Wilder, .

For the second best, to Hovey & Co.,

Greenhouse Azaleas. — For the best 6 plants, to Hovey & Co., .
Htacinths. — For tlie best display, to J. Breck & Co.,

For the second best, to R. M. Copeland,

Tulips. — For the best 30 flowers, to Hovey &. Co.,

For the second best, to Breck &. Co.,

For the third best, to A. Bowditch,

Pansies. — For the best display, to Breck & Co., ....
Hawthorns. — For the best display, to Messrs. Winship,

For the second best, to J. A. Kenrick,

Hardy Azaleas. — For tlie best, to J. A. Kenrick,

For the second best, to Messrs. Winship, . . . .

Shrubby Peonies.— For the best display, to M. P. Wilder, .

For the second best, to Breck & Co.,

Herbaceous Peonies. — For the best 12 flowers, to M. P. Wilder,

For the second best, to J, S. Cabot,

For the third best, to Breck &- Co.,

Roses. — Class I. — Hardy Roses. For the largest and best collection,
to A. Aspinwall,

For the second best, to Breck & Co.,

For the third best, to Hovey &- Co.,

Class II. — For the best 30 varieties, to A. Aspinwall,

For the second best, to Hovey tSt Co.,

Class III. — For the best 12 varieties, to Breck & Co.,
Class IV. — Hardy Perpetuals. For the best 10 varieties, to A. As-
pinwall,

For the second best, to Breck & Co.,

For the third best, to Hovey & Co.,
Class V. — Prairies. For the best display, to Hovey &

For the second best, to Messrs. Winship,
Pinks. — For the best display, to J. Quant,
Plants in Pots. — For the best display, to Hovey & Co,
Herbaceous Plants. — ^For the best display, to Breck &.

For the second best, to P. Barnes,
Magnolias. — For the best display, to J. A. Kenrick,
Hollyhocks. — For the best display, to Breck & Co.,

For the second best, to Hovey &- Co^
For the third best, to P. Barnes,
VOL. XVI. NO. I. 6

Co„

Co.,

^ 00

2 00

3 00

8 00

5 00

3 00

8 00

6 00

6 00

5 00

3 00

8 00

6 00

3 00

4 00

3 oa

2 00

5 00

3 005

5 00

3 00

5 00

4 00

3 00

12 00

10 00

5 00

8 00

6 00

5 00

5 00

4 00

3 00

4 00

3 00

4 00

8 00

8 00

5 00

3 00

3 00

2 00

1 00

43

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Carnations and Picotees. — For the best 10 varieties, to Hovey

& Co., #5 00

For the second best, to J. Nugent, 4 00

For the best display, to Hovey &. Co., 3 00

Balsams. — For the best display, to T. Needham, . . . . 4 00

For the second best, to J. Nugent, 2 00

For the third best, to Breck & Co., 1 00

Phlox, — For the best 12 varieties, to Breck & Co., , . . 6 00

For the second best, to Hovey »& Co., 4 00

For tlie tliird best, to M. P. WHder, 3 00

German Asters. — For the best display, to Hovey & Co., . . 4 00

For the second best, to J. Nugent, 3 00

For the third best, to L. Spear, 2 00

Herbaceous Perennials. — For the best, to Breck & Co., . . 5 00

For the second best, to P. Barnes, 4 00

For the tliird best, to Messrs. Winship, 3 00

Annuals. — For the best, to Breck & Co., 5 00

For the second best, to P. Barnes, 4 00

For the thu-d best to A. Bowditch, 3 00

Shrubby Plants. — For the best, to Messrs. Winship, . . . 5 00

For the second best, to J. A. Kenrick, 4 00

For the tliird best, to Wm. Kenrick, . . . . . 3 00

Rhododendrons. — For the best display, to Hovey & Co., . . 3 00

()[^ The Premiums awarded at the Annual Exhibition, in September

last, will be found at p. 472, and the Premiums for Dahlias at p. 521, of our
volume for 1849.

gratuities.

To J. Quant, for Pimelea spectabUis,

To N. J. Becar, for Calceolarias, the silver medal,

To Thomas Owens, for Parasitical plants,

To Hovey & Co., for fine Pelargoniums,

To Hovey & Co., for Stephanotus floribiindus.

To Hovey & Co., for Chinese Primroses,

To Messrs. Winship, for exhibition of Spiraeas,

To Hovey & Co., for Sweet Williams and Verbenas

To A. Bowditch, for Herbaceous plants, .

To B. V. French, for Roses and Herbaceous plants.

To A. Bowditch, for Chinese Roses,

To Miss Russell, for Flowers and Flower Baskets,

To Mrs. Spaulding, for Plants and Bouquets, .

To A. Bowditch, for Hand Bouquets,

To O. N. Towne, for Hand Bouquets,

To M. P. WUder, for Cut Roses, .

To Hovey & Co., for Ranunculuses and Anemonies

To Hovey & Co., for Prahie Roses,

To Dr. D. Wood, for Ericas, ....

#2 00

00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 43

PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AT THE WEEKLY EXHIBITIONS.

To M. P. Wilder, for Plants, &c., at tlie weekly exhibitions, . $11 00
To A. Bowditch, for Bouquets, &c., at the same, . . . . 21 00

To J. Quant, for the same, 5 00

To J. Nugent, for tlie same, 15 00

To P. Barnes, for tlie same, 11 00

To Miss Russell, for the same, 9 00

To Messrs, Winship, for the same, IG 00

To W. Kenrick, for the same, 2 00

To J. A. Kenrick, for the same, 2 00

To Messrs. Hovey & Co., for the same, 4 00

To Breck & Co., for the same, 8 00

To Miss Kenrick, for the same, 5 00

To J. G Swan, for the same, 6 00

To J. Hovey, for the same, • . . 9 00

To E. Barnes, for the same, 3 00

To Miss Barnes, for the same, 5 00

To T. Needliam, for the same, 5 00

To Mrs. M. Daggett, for the same, 1 00

To J. W. Brown, for the same, 1 00

To L. Davenport, for the same, 2 00

To D. Pierce, for the same, 1 00

For the Committee : D. Haggerston, Chairman.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FRUITS,

AWARDING PREMIUMS FOR 1849.

The Committee on Fruits now submit the following report of their award
of the prizes offered by the Society for the several varieties of Fruits, for
the year 1849. The unpropitious character of the past season for the pro-
duction of several varieties of Fruits, — particularly apples and pears, — has
had the effect of seriously diminishing the number of competitors for prizes,
of specimens and varieties exhibited, and, thereby, of somewhat duninishing
the interest of the weekly exhibitions of the Society in this department. But
these effects, naturally to be expected, of causes beyond the control of hu-
man agency, will be, it is believed, temporary in their nature, and are in no
way discouraging to the efforts or zeal of cultivators ; and this diminution in
number of competitors, or specimens, indicates no permanent want of inter-
est in the Society, or belief in its beneficial influences. This does not seem
a fitting time or place to enter upon a consideration of the causes that have
been attended with such disastrous consequences ; but a reference to the
fact appeared necessary, as explanatory of the circumstance that some of
the prizes offered had not been awarded, and because that the absence of
such allusion might have possibly induced the opinion that this was an indi-
cation of diminished zeal in cultivation, or of interest in the objects of the
Society.
Notwithstanding tlie fact that the pears exhibited, the past season, have

44 Massachusetts Horticultwal Society.

been much fewer than usual, both in the number of specimens, as well as of
varieties, yet it is satisfactory to your committee that they are able, with
safety, to assert that some of the specimens offered for competition were of
superior excellence ; equalling, if not surpassing, in size and beauty, any
ever before placed upon the tables of tlie Society. An assignment of a
cause for this superiority is forbidden by an ignorance of facts applicable
thereto ; but it is, at least, hoped that it is wholly or in part attributable to
improved modes of cultivation. It would be an agreeable duty to enumerate
all the instances of this superiority referred to. To attempt its performance
might, however, be an invidious task ; yet, as a proof that the obstacles aris-
ing, not only from an unfavorable season, but those created by a usually
supposed most uncongenial climate and situation, as well as an unfavorable
soil, may be successfully surmounted, it may not be improper to state, in
this connection, that the Louise Bonne d'Avranche pears, and some others,
exhibited by F. Tudor, Esq., raised on his grounds at Nahant, were very su-
perior in size and beauty ; their excellence in the former respect arising, in
the opinion of that gentleman, from the stimulating effects of rain water
repeatedly applied to the trees.

The reverse of what has been said with respect to the excellence of some
of the pears exhibited, is applicable to apples generally, which, the past
year, have been not only few in number, but generally of inferior quality.
For want of any, in their opinion, worthy of a premium, the committee have
refrained from awarding the second prize for autumn apples ; the same want
having also compelled the adoption of the same course with respect to sum-
mer pears.

Witli these preliminary remarks, the committee now announce the follow-
ing Award of Prizes, as made by them for the past year, viz : —

PRIZES AND GRATUITIES DURING THE SEASON.

For the best and most interesting exhibition of Fruit during the sea-
son, the Lowell Plate, to John F. Allen, . . . #20 00

For the second best, to Otis Johnson,

For the third best, to Messrs. Hovey & Co.,
Apples. — For the best summer apples, to John Hovey,
Harvest,

For tlie second best, to Otis Johnson, for Early Bough,

For the best autumn apples, to J. Lovett, 2d, for Drap d'Or,

For the second best, no award made.

For the best 12 winter apples, to J. A. Kenrick, for Cogswell, .

For the second best, to O. Johnson, for Baldwin,
Blackberries. — For the best specimens, to G. Merriam,

For the second best, to O. C. Grant,

Cherries. — For the best specimens, to G. Walsh, for his seedling, .

For the second best, to O. Johnson, for Black Tartarean, .
Currants. — For the best specimens, to Hovey & Co., for May's
Victoria, .....•••••

For the second best, to G. Wilson, for White Dutch,

for Early

12 00

8 00

6 00

4 00

6 00

6 00

4 00

5 00

3 00

6 00

4 00

5 00

3 00

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 45

Figs.— For the best 12 specimens, to J. F. Allen, . . . . $5 00

For the second best, to O. Johnson, 3 00

Gooseberries. — For tlie best specimens, to J. Hovey, . . . 5 00

For tlie second best, to J. Lovett, 2d, 3 00

Grapes. — For the best grown under glass, before the first Saturday

of July, to H. B. Crooker by T. Needham, . . . . 10 00

For the second best, to J. F. Allen, 7 00

For the best grown under glass, subsequent to the first Saturday

of July, to B. D. Emerson, 10 00

For the second best, to Hovey &. Co., 7 00

For the best specunens of native grapes, to Hovey & Co., for

Diana, 5 00

For the second best, to C. E. Grant, for Isabella, . . . 3 00
MusKMELONS. — For the best musknielon, on or before the last Sat-
urday in August, to Geo. Newhall, 5 00

For the second best, to E. M. Richards, 3 00

Q^ Botli Premiums awarded for the variety called Christiana.
Nectarines. — For the best specimens, to J. F. Allen, . . . 6 00

For the second best, to W. C. Strong, 4 00

Peaches. — For the best grown under glass, on or before the second

Saturday in July, to J. F. Allen, G 00

For the second best, to O. Johnson, 4 00

For the best grown in open culture, to Galen Merriam, . . 6 00
For the second best, no prize awarded.
Plums. — For the best specimens, to O. Johnson, for Green Gage, . 6 00
For the second best, to F. King, for Coe's Golden Drop, . . 3 00
Pears. — For the best collection, not exhibited before this year, with
a written description of the same, the Society's Plate, .

For the second best,

0;^ There were no competitors.

For the best summer pear, before the last Saturday in August,

no prize awarded.
For the second best, no prize awarded.
For the best autumn pears, to F. Tudor, for Louise Bonne

d'Avranche, 6 00

For the second best, to E. Cleaves, for Beurr6 Bosc, . . 4 00
For tlie best winter pears, to J. S. Cabot, for Winter Nelis, on

March 3, 1849, 10 00

For the second best, to O. Johnson, for Le Cure, . . . 6 00
Quinces. — For the best specimens, to O. Johnson, . . . . 5 00

For the second best, to J. Washburn, 3 00

Raspberries. — For the best specimens, to J. Lovett, 2d, . . 5 00

For the second best, to J. Richardson, 3 00

Strawberries. — For tlie best specimens, to J. Richardson, for Bos-
ton Pine, 6 00

For tlie second best, to O. Johnson, for Hovey's Seedling, . 4 00
For the third best, to Hovey & Co., for Boston Pine, . . 3 00

46 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

05^ In addition to the foregoing premiums, the committee recommended
that there also be awarded as

GRATUITIES,

To Hovey & Co., for Jacques Peaches, raised in pots, . . . $6 00

To J. F, Allen, for Urbaniste Pears, 5 00

To H. Plympton, for St. Michael Pear, 5 00

To H. Vandine, for Marie Louise Pear, 5 00

To J. Lovett, 2d, for Beurre Diel Pear, 5 00

To J. F. Allen, for Grapes raised under glass, subsequent to the first

Saturday of July, 5 00

To Thos. Needham, for the same, 5 00

To O. Johnson, for the same, 5 00

To E. Burns, for Strawberries, raised under glass, . . . . 5 00

As an indication of what may be effected by skill and care in cultivation,
a statement of the fact that grapes, grown under glass, by J. F. Allen, Esq.,
have been placed upon the tables of the Society by that gentleman, in every
month during the year, may not be uninteresting to its members.

For the Committee : Joseph S. Cabot, Chairman.

Ol/^ The Premiums awarded at the Annual Exhibition, in September last,
in addition to the above, will be found at p. 477 of our volume for 1849.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON VEGETABLES,

AWARDING PREMIUMS FOR 1849.

The Committee on Vegetables respectfully beg leave to report tliat the
exhibitions have exceeded their anticipations. It is gratifying to them to
perceive the increased interest manifested by residents of tlie towns around
the city, in the welfare of the Society ; and they beg leave to express the
hope that the farmers of tlie vicinity may be induced to give more of their
attention than heretofore in exliibiting tlie products of their farms.

The Premiums are awarded as follows : —

Asparagus. — For the earliest and best, to F. A. Davis, .
Beets. — For the best during the season, to A. D. Williams,
Brocoli, — For the best 3 heads, to J. Lovett, .
Beans. — For the best early String Beans, to Geo. Newhall,

For the best Lima, to F. A. Davis, ....
Cabbages. — For the best Drumhead, to A. D. Williams,

For the best Savoy, to A. D. Williams,
Carrots. — For the best, to A. D. Williams, .
Cauliflowers. — For the best, to A. D. Williams, .

For the second best, to O. N. Towne,
Corn. — For tlie best Sweet, to A. D. Williams,

For the second best, to F. A. Davis,
Cucumbers. — For the best, under glass, to O. N. Towne,

For the second best, to T. Needham,

. 5 00

. 3 00

. 5 00

. 3 00

. 3 00

. 5 00

. 3 00

. 2 00

. 5 00

. 3 00

. 3 00

. 2 00

. 5 00

. 3 00

Horticultural Operations for January. 47

Egg Plants. — For the best display, to Hovey & Co., . . • $5 00

For the second best, to A. McLennan, 2 00

Peas. — For tlie best and earliest, to J. Quant, . . . . 3 00

Rhubarb. — For the best display, to J. Lovett, . . . . 5 00

For tlie second best, to J. A. Kenrick, 3 00

Squashes. — For tlie best Canada, to A. D. Weld, . . . . 3 00
Potatoes. — For tlie earliest and best, to A. D. Williams, . . 3 00
Vegetables. — For the best and greatest display at the weekly ex-
hibitions, to A. D. Williams, 5 00

gratuities.

To J. Crosby, for the best and earliest Cucumbers, open culture, . 3 00

To J. Crosby, for early Cabbages, 2 00

To S. Walker, for Water Cresses, 2 00

To J. Quant, for early Cucumbers, 2 00

To J. Crosby, for the second best show of vegetables, at the weekly

exhibitions, 2 00

To J. Owen, for Celery, 1 00

For the Committee : A. D. Williams, Chairman.

Q;^ The Premiums awarded at the Annual Exhibition, in September last,
in addition to the above, will be found at p. 479 of the volume for 1849.

HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS

FOR JANUARY.

FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines, in the hot house, will now begin to swell then- buds, and
will require considerable attention at this season of the year. The tempera-
ture should be kept up to 50°^or 55°, and in a fortnight increased 55° to 60°.
Syringing should be kept up every morning in good weather, till the eyes
are fully broken. See that the border is well protected with a thick cov-
ering of manure, hay, or leaves. Grape vines in tlie greenhouse and grape-
ry will now be at rest, and will not require any attention till tlie end of the
month. Vines in pots should now be shifted, and got in readiness for bring-
ing into the house.

Fig Trees in pots should now be pruned, if not already done, repotted if
they need it, and placed in a warm situation, where they will soon begin to
grow.

Peach Trees in pots may be brought forward the last of tlie montli.

Scions of fruit trees may now be safely cut at leisure time, tlms saving
labor when the season is more advanced. Preserve them by inserting the
ends in a box of earth, in a cool cellar.

Seeds of Gooseberries, Grapes, Strawberries, &,c., may now be planted

48 Horticultural Operations for January.

in boxes in the greenhouse, or in hot beds, and brought forward so as to
make strong plants by autumn.

FLOWER DEPARTMENT.

Camellias will now be in full flower, and should be liberally watered,
syringing occasionally in fine weather. If the soil is mossy, it should be
carefully top-dressed. Inarching and grafting may be commenced the last
of the month. Seeds should be sown now, if not planted before. Attend to
the impregnation of flowers if seeds are wanted.

Pelargoniums will require a little more attention now : such as need it
should be repotted, and the branches carefully tied out to pegs, so as to
make short stocky specimens ; nip off" the tops of the most forward shoots,
as this will make them throw out laterals ; keep the plants rather dry, and
place them on shelves near the light, to prevent them from drawing up. Seeds
saved last year should be planted now.

Japan Lilies will soon require to be repotted ; as soon as they begin to
grow this should be done. Seeds may be sown now.

Dahlias wanted for very early flowering should be brought forward this
month : or, if they are wanted for propagation, they should be potted.

OxALiSEs, done blooming, should be placed away on a light shelf, and be
sparingly watered.

Pansies, in pots, should be kept on a cool shelf near the light, in order to
make them dwarf and stocky plants. Repot such as show signs of bloom-
ing. Seeds may be planted now for a succession.

Gloxinias should be potted now for early blooming.

AcHiMENES should also be potted now, if early flowering plants are
wanted.

Verbenas should be repotted. Seed should be sown now in order to
get the plants early into flower.

Schizanthuses should now be repotted.

Petunias of the fine kinds should now be propagated from cuttings.

Azaleas should be rather sparingly watered.

Roses will now be coming into flower. Syringe the plants freely, and
water occasionally with liquid guano. Fumigate often with tobacco, to
keep down the green fly ; and with sulphur, to kill the red spider.

Heliotropes should now be propagated from cuttings, for a spring stock.

Fuchsias should now be potted, and if a large stock is wanted, they
should be propagated by cuttings.

Calceolarias will need another shift into large pots.

Heaths of many kinds will now be in bloom : water liberally, and syr-
inge occasionally ; such as appear to need it should be repotted, and if a
stock is wanted, now is the best season to put in the cuttings.

Guavas should be repotted now into large pots, if they are of sufficient
size to produce fruit.

Carnations and Picotees, for early flowering, should now be shifted
into larger pots.

Tree Peonies in pots may now be brought forward for early blooming.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTURE.

FEBRUARY, 1850.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. Notes on Gardens and Gardening i?i the neighbor-
hood of Boston. By R. B. Leuchars, New Haven.

The admirers of fine plants and fine gardens, cannot fail
to be struck with the superiority of the gardening establish-
ments, in the neighborhood of Boston. Whether the visiter
directs his attention to the extent of the grounds, — the gen-
eral arrangements of the garden, — the hardy ornamental
trees, that embellish and beautify the landscape, or the col-
lections of tender exotics, that grace the greenhouse and con-
servatory, he finds all these, — even under the severer frosts
of longer winters, — carried out with a degree of energy, per-
severance and skill, unequalled in any other part of America.
In most other places, gardening, is yet in its infancy ; in
some, still in its cradle ; and in others, it has hardly sprung
into existence. Here, however, it has come to maturity,
and has attained a goodly age.

It is a very general impression among English gardeners,
(and I must plead guilty to having inherited some of the
same feeling,) that there are no places in this country that
will bear comparison with the fine gardens in England.
'Tis true ; there is neither the extent, nor the magnificent
structures, of a Chatsworth, of a Dalkeith, of a Sion House,
and some others ; but with the exception of some of these
very extensive places, there are few others, among the noble
and titled establishments of old England, to which the splen-

VOL. XVI. NO. II. 7

50 Notes on Gardens and Gardening

did residences of Colonel Perkins and Mr, Gushing will not
stand as formidable rivals. I write free from prejudice or
fear, — being a perfect stranger to one and all of the parties,
whose places I visited, and without the slightest intention
of writing a notice of them. I visited them under the most
unfavorable circumstances, when the snow covered the
ground ; but the general outline and appearance of the gar-
dens, and especially the plant and forcing houses, manifested
a degree of skill and attention which could not fail to be
observed.

The Grounds of J. P. Cuslmig, Esq., Watertown, near
Mount Auburn, are laid out on the plan of modern European
gardens, and appear to be an exact counterpart of the style of
the late Mr. Loudon, and so admirably carried out by him,
with a due regard to convenience, as well as effect. Not-
withstanding that this system of laying out kitchen gardens,
and building forcing houses, bears the stamp of antiquity, and
has given place to the sweeping improvements (so called) of
more recent times, still the range of lean-to forcing houses,
(call them old fashioned if you like,) with their internal com-
munications,— their adjoining back sheds, — and all their
accompanying conveniences, have something about them,
which, in spite of their demerits, makes us like them, — only
however for forcing houses ; — and for this purpose they have
a claim to our esteem, which, in my opinion, sj?aw-roofed
houses can never possess.

The range of houses on the southern aspect, is about three
hundred feet long. The centre being occupied as a large
greenhouse, and the adjoining houses, diminishing in size to-
wards each extremity. These are flanked by a smaller
range of peach houses on the Eastern and Western aspects ;
the whole having a systematic appearance, and a peculiarly
pleasing effect. The inclosed space, of about two acres, forms
the kitchen garden, which is finely laid out, trellised and
planted with the finer sorts of pears, peaches, &c. These
latter were on trellises, and protected with spruce branches,
from the frost, or rather from the hot sun that succeeds it.
I think this an excellent method ; it is extensively practised

i7i the neighborhood of Boston. 51

with much benefit in the northern parts of Great Britain.
In fact, without such partial protection, the culture of peaches
would be all but impossible. The principles upon which
the various operations of gardening are conducted about this
place by Mr. Schimming, arc thoroughly scientific, and man-
ifest a perfect understanding of the numerous details con-
nected Avith the higher branches of horticulture. At the
time of my visit the camellias were the glory of the green-
house ; the collection of which is large, and in excellent con-
dition. The principal stage was filled with a promiscuous
collection of greenhouse plants, generally cultivated. 1 ob-
served nothing new among them, and very few, of what
might be termed " fine specimens," according to the Chis-
wick definition of that term. In fact the form of the house
renders the growth of fine specimens almost impossible ; as
a matter of necessity the plants were placed too thickly to-
gether, (a circumstance much too common,) but the efi"ect
they produced " en masse," was excellent. The healthy
appearance of the whole, and the unscrupulous cleanliness and
neatness which was every where manifest, and this too, at a
season when visiters were least to be expected, reflected
much credit on the taste and attention of the foreman in
charge of them.

I have said that the form of this house, as regards the
growth of specimen plants, was decidedly objectionable, and
its internal arrangements are equally so ? Although the lat-
ter, under present conditions, are probably the very best that
could be adopted, — for convenience and effect with good
management they certainly are so — but without great cave,
and unwearied attention, the defects of the structure, as a
plant house, would soon become very apparent. The amount
of attention and labor required to produce the same effect in
different houses, is but seldom appreciated to its fullest ex-
tent, and gardeners are sometimes censured for doing badly,
what it was impossible for them to do better, while others
are praised for doing well, what was only a natural result of
the cause that produced it, and which, probably by any spe-
cies of mismanagement could not have very well been oth-
erwise.

52 Notes on Gardens and Gardening

There is one thing I observed here, and which I have
seen practised elsewhere, viz., growing climbing plants under
the glass. Now this practice is all very well when the
climbers are confined solely to the rafters of the house, or to
the pillars supporting the roof; but, as in this case, the whole
roof was densely covered by a mass of roses, &-c., trained to a
trellis under the surface of the glass, and rendered almost
impervious to the transmitted rays of light, the effect can-
not be otherwise than injurious to the plants growing be-
neath it. I am fully aware, that my opinions on this point
may be in direct opposition to those of many of my profes-
sional brethren, but experience has taught me the truth of
what I have here asserted. In the stoves the collection of
plants is rather limited, but we were gratified to learn that it
has been recently much improved, by the addition of several
new plants, and is to be still further augmented under the
care of the present gardener : this house, however, was very
gay for this season of the year, and its gayness much heigh-
tened by several good specimens of that conspicuous and
beautiful winter flowering plant the Poinsettfa pulcherrima, its
scarlet bracts contrasting finely with the dark green, and
healthy verdure of the other plants. This is decidedly one
of the best winter flowering exotics we have, and cannot be
too widely known. Here, also, I observed, a fine plant of
the Cycas revoliita, — and some crinums (A. amabile) the
finest I have seen ; they were just coming into flower.

The Vineries were well worth looking at, though even at
this early season when not in fruit. Here were canes, worth
calling canes ; not half ripened, pipe-stem rods, that might
be crushed between your finger and thumb : wood well ma-
tured, plump eyes, short jointed, and just enough and no
more than is necessary to fill the house well. That is the
way that I like to see vines managed, and I would venture
to warrant that these vines will produce creditable fruit.
Back sheds are indispensable appendages to every gardening
establishment, but it is seldom we find them so arranged,
and kept in such a condition as to be perfectly answerable
for all the purposes to which they might be applied. Here,

in the neighborhood of Boston. 53

however, these arrangements are made with a due regard to
order and convenience, as well as comfort to the workmen.
The plants can be taken from the houses, shifted, and re-
turned to their places, with the smallest amount of trouble.
No garden can be complete without arrangements of this
kind ; although they are considered matters of secondary im-
portance, and not unfrequently altogether neglected.

Behind the principal range of houses, there is a number of
pits, built, originally, 1 believe, for growing pine apples.
These pits are very commodious, and are turned to excellent
advantage, for the purposes of propagation and for raising
young stock for the stove and greenhouse ; they were well
filled with Geraniums, Calceolarias, &c., all luxuriating in a
healthy, humid atmosphere. The grounds around the man-
sion are beatifully disposed, and planted with hardy evergreen
trees : they contain many fine specimens of the conifera?,
both indigenous and imported : indeed, the whole place dis-
plays in a very striking degree, the taste and liberality of its
wealthy proprietor.

Mrs. PratVs Residence, nearly opposite that of Mr. Cush-
ing's, is one of the most picturesque places around Boston ;
presenting a beautiful combination of sweeps and formalities,
curves and zig-zags, hills and hollows, the effect of which is
considerably increased by the continuous undulations extend-
ing over the whole surface of the surrounding grounds.
The mansion being situated upon an eminence, commands
an extensive view of the country around. The landscape
for a considerable distance is ornamented with, and broken
by, individual trees, clumps, and masses of cedars and pines,
which, in summer, must have a fine effect, when contrasted
with the lighter foliage of the deciduous trees. The house
is approached by a very beautiful drive, winding gracefully
through the trees, forming a sort of serpentine avenue, after
the Reptonian fashion. These kind of carriage roads are
rarely to be met with in America, except in a form which
may justly be called a ludicrous burlesque upon the intended
style. This road rises with a gradual and easy ascent, to-
wards the mansion, and is well worthy of imitation.

54 Notes on Gardens and Gardening

The garden lies to the rear of the house, and is still more
elevated, A large greenhouse has recently been erected,
and is already well filled with a good collection of plants,
among which, I observed some fine specimens of Camellia,
Acacia, Stephanotus floribundus, &c. Yines are also grown in
this house, and from their appearance, their culture seemed
to be no unknown secret to Mr. McLennan the gardener ;
and, though but recently planted, had borne good crops, and
made fine wood. Mr. McLennan showed us a vine which
had been grafted the previous season, and had made a cane
of great strength, and thickness. Vine grafting is worthy of
more attention than it generally receives, not only for the
purpose of changing the products of inferior sorts, but also
in hardening the more tender varieties. We have many in-
stances of delicate plants being so much invigorated, by be-
ing wrought upon robust stocks, that they appear perfectly
changed in their habits and constitution from the originals ;
and many instances v/hich have come under my own expe-
rience and observation, have satisfied me that this is pecu-
liarly the case with regard to the vine. There are many
things about this place worthy of notice, and present them-
selves to the stranger, even on a winter's day. Mr. McLennan
is one of those intelligent practical men, with whom visiters
like so much to converse, who says much in a few words,
and imparts a great deal of valuable knowledge, without
making any great eff'ort to do it. He is one of those gar-
deners who are not easily discouraged, and who acts upon
the principle that " Success never follows those who are con-
tinually meeting lions in the way :" and he turns every
thing to the best advantage, regarding both mishaps and diffi-
culties with a stoical indifference. No qualification merits
greater praise.

Mt. Auburn Cemetery. — Ln passing the celebrated ceme-
tery of Mount Auburn I took a glance at that magnificent
resting place of the dead ; unequalled in extent and romantic
beauty, perhaps by any cemetery in Europe ; and I have seen
some fine ones there. Its scenic effects are remarkably
striking. The picturesque undulating surface of the ground

171 the neighborhood of Boston. 55

is strikingly characteristic of the neighboring country, and
though the forest trees were stripped of their summer gar-
ments, and the rusty brown cedars presented a dreary and
melancholy aspect, as their forms were reflected against the
snow-covered summits of the numerous elevations, still
there was ample food for reflection, — and for admiration too.
The very trees and shrubs had an aspect of melancholy and
silent solemness, as if they were conscious of the consecrated
ground on which they grew. The pines, — the cypress and
the cedars, seemed to partake of the sacred solemnity of the
graves over which they hung ; and as they shadowed with
their embrowned canopies the hallowed resting places of the
departed, their silent voices conveyed a lesson more touching
and impressive, than the most learned philosophy could im-
part.

The Nurseries and Grounds of Messrs. Hovey at Cam-
bridge^ near Harvard Colleges, about two miles from Boston,
are also well worthy of a visit. This establishment, which
covers about thirty-six acres in the heart of the city, has
now attained a deservedly conspicuous position, solely by
the assiduous labors of its proprietors, who have spared no
pains or expense to perfect every branch of the nursery bus-
iness. It is only by visiting, and comparing one establish-
ment Avith another, that one is able to appreciate in a right
degree, the services of those who have contributed to the im-
provement of gardening and its various productions ; and
there is abundant evidence that the proprietors of this estab-
lishment have been, and are still, zealous in their endeavors
to introduce every thing worthy of cultivation from abroad,
or to be obtained at home. They have just erected and
completed one of the largest span-roofed houses in the
country, being ninety-six feet long and thirty feet wide,
chiefly for the growth of specimen plants, for which purpose
it is well designed. It already contained a large collection
of plants, among which were some specimens of considerable
merit. To particularize and describe every individual plant
worthy of being noticed, would occupy too much space. I
will briefly mention a few which caught my eye, more con-
spicuously than the rest : —

56 Notes 071 Gardens and Gardening

Acacia cultrasformis, a beautiful glaucous leaved, deep yel-
low flowered species ; Ahatilon venosum superb plants, six
feet high, in full flower ; Chorizema varium nana, fine, from
its dwarf habit ; Kennedya grandiflora, K. racemosa, and
K. nigricans, the latter newly introduced, were just coming
into bloom ; Gesnera oblonga, is a fine late flowering plant,
and the specimens were two feet high, and as much through.
Two of the very finest things were the double wh.\ie, andc^ow-
hle purple Chinese primroses, of which the specimens were in-
deed superb, and reflected great skill upon the cultivator ; they
were in pots twelve inches across and one mass of bloom,
almost as double and beautiful as the ranunculus. Begom'a
fuchsioides, B. sanguinea, B. coccinea, B. manicata, and sev-
eral others of this fine winter flowering tribe, were fine, but
more particularly B. fuchsioides, which was covered with its
depending scarlet blossoms, so much resembling some of the
fuchsias, as to have that name applied to it. A brilliant thing
was the Tropgeolum 'Lohhmnun, with deep scarlet flowers.
The Japan lilies, of which Messrs. Hovey have more than
a thousand seedlings, of various crosses with the hardy
kinds, were now, some of them, just being potted, for orna-
menting the greenhouse and conservatory in summer. A
specimen of Acacia pubescens, is probably the best in the
country, being fifteen feet high, with its branches wreathed
with flowers, hanging nearly to the ground. Leschenaultia
formosa, twenty inches high, and four feet in circumference,
filled with thousands of flowers, was a superb object. The
roses, of which there are thousands, were not yet in bloom.
In the Camellia house, which is upwards of eighty /ee^ long,
with a span-roof, and built in the Grecian style, with glass
on all sides, were some good plants : a very large double
white, about ten feet high, and of beautiful proportions,
which I regarded with a wistful eye ; it was splendidly
bloomed. The stock of camellias is very large and in ex-
cellent condition. Messrs. Hovey have raised a great num-
ber of seedlings, some of which are said to be unequalled for
color and form, but with the exception of one, which struck
me as being remarkably fine, they were not yet in bloom.
The collection of Azaleas contains a large number of superb

iji the neighbo7'hood of Boston. 57

sorts, and quite a number of seedlings, none of which, how-
ever, were yet in flower. Heaths, Acacias, Epacris and nu-
merous other subjects filled this house.

I must not omit the collection of Pelargoniums, which,
however, is too well known to render any remarks of mine
necessary. In one batch, of about 500 plants, were all the
latest varieties of Beck, Storey, Lyne and Foster, the cel-
ebrated English growers. These plants were in fine trim,
dwarf, stubby, and having leaves of a deep dark green hue,
indicative of constitutional vigor and healthiness. The col-
lections of these plants here, is, I believe, unrivalled by any
other in America, and is well worthy of its wide spread rep-
utation.

In the Fruit department, I was astonished to find such an
extensive collection of specimen trees, of pears, apples, cher-
ries, peaches, plums, &c. — but more especially of pears.
We hear a great deal about the specimen grounds, of nur-
sery men, and being fond of these subjects, I have travelled
some considerable distance to see them, both in this country
and in England, but have found their existence only in cat-
alogues and advertisements. I confess, therefore, I was not
prepared for the coup-d^oeil which was here presented to me.

The walks are laid out at right angles, and bordering
them on each side, at the distance of three feet from the
edge, the trees are planted in rows, — ^just six feet apart for
the pears and plums ; and eight feet for the apples, cherries,
and peaches : all are dwarfs, even the cherries, branching
within a foot of the ground ; and the effect, therefore, in
summer, when the trees form almost a perfect belt of foliage
and fruit, can be better imagined than described. Many of
the trees have been accurately figured in Mr. Hovey's splen-
did work, the Fruits of America, and they faithfully repre-
sent the peculiar habit of growth of each variety.

The pear trees were well proportioned, some of them be-
ing perfect pyramids, and would do honor to any private
garden in the land ; they seemed to be in good soil, — were
healthy, without being too gross and luxuriant, — and were
thickly set with flower buds, giving every promise of a good

VOL. XVI. NO. II. 8

58 Notes on Gardens and Gardening

crop the coming season. In recording my opinion of these
treeS; however, I must also record the opinion which I there
expressed, viz., that they were for the most part rather too
thickly set with branches, — too full of wood, as gardeners
term it. This is a fault which is almost every where per-
ceptible, both in public and in private gardens, and it con-
vinces me that the propriety of keeping fruit trees thin and
open among their branches, is not fully appreciated, nor the
theory of the matter generally understood. The collection
of specimen trees, however, in the grounds of Messrs. Hovey,
is undoubtedly the best I have ever seen, and those inter-
ested in such matters will be highly gratified by looking at
them. When it is taken into consideration how much labor
and time are required to keep such an unusual number of
trees in order, — numbering upwards of two thousand^ — the
fault which I have alluded to, — if so it may be termed, —
may well be overlooked. The object, in many instances,
is not to possess a very symmetrical tree, particularly of the
newer varieties, but rather to keep them in a limited space,
so that they may be brought speedily into fruit, and their
qualities tested as soon as possible, to be afterwards grafted
with fine sorts, should they prove inferior kinds.

The different methods of heating adopted at these places,
are chiefly hot water pipes and smoke flues, under various
modifications. The Polmaise method appears to be regarded
with suspicion and distrust, — and not without good cause.
They will act wisely who adhere to the older and well
proved modes and let Polmaise alone. I speak from expe-
rience, and with confidence, — for I know what it is. But
as I intend to say something on this subject bye and bye, I
will leave it for the present.

Residence of Col. T. H. Perkins, Brookline. — The next
place I visited was that of Col. Perkins. The gardens here
are also very extensive, and the extent of hot houses, proba-
bly greater than at that of Mr. Cushing's. They appeared to
have been somewhat neglected of late years, but a liberal
and judicious system of gardening is now carried on, and
many cultural improvements are in progress by the present

ifi the neighborhood of Boston. 59

gardener, Mr. Cowan, The general arrangement of the hor-
ticultural buildings is less systematic than at Mr. Cushing's,
and less imposing in their appearance, — though their extent
may be greater. A new poultry house, recently erected close
by the garden, has really a most striking effect, — the design
is perfectly unique, — its style of architecture is, — I don't
know what, assuredly neither Gothic, Doric, Elizabethan or
Ionic, — probably a mixture of all the four : It has a fine ap-
pearance, however, and looks very much like a Chinese
Pagoda, without its colors. In the greenhouse were some
good specimens of the older kinds of Erica, a very large
double white Camellia, and a miscellaneous assortment of
other greenhouse plants, in a good, healthy condition, and
displaying plenty of blooms. The vines in the graperies
looked well with fine, firm, well ripened wood, just such
as one would expect to produce abundant crops from. My
visit to this fine place was very hurried, having only a few
minutes to spare, and I omitted many things highly worthy
of notice and record, and displaying in a high degree the
zeal and ability of the excellent manager of these gardens,
Mr. Cowan. As a whole, it is a fine place, embosomed
among beautiful and finely arranged woods, and altogether
well worthy of the high reputation it has hitherto possessed.

In concluding my remarks on the gardens around Boston, I
beg to say, that I have omitted many things in this sketch,
from its length, which I might have inserted, and many
more highly worthy of being recorded, which in my hurried
visits, I necessarily overlooked. It is evident that under
the fostering cai-e of the Boston amateurs, and their excellent
Horticultural Society, gardening holds a higher position,
than in any other part of the United States. Some may doubt,
and even dispute this statement. But I will ask, — where
is the place that excels it ?

It is to be regretted that there is such a general apathy
and indifference with many individuals towards gardening
and gardeners. Too many persons are disposed to underrate
the labor and skill of this class of men, treating with indiffer-
ence their learning, intelligence and practical knowledge : and

60 Descriptions and Engravings

are too unwilling to promote those interests which contribute
to their own welfare and pleasure. The time is not far dis-
tant, however, when the hopes of the best friends of garden-
ing will be realized, when the science of the culture of the
ground, and the creation of natural landscapes and gardens
will be carried out to the admiration and delight of all who
will admire and take pleasure in them. The gardens which
I have here noticed, — fine although they be, — are but the
precepts and examples of others still finer than themselves ;
and though gardening as a science, or as an art, imparts
neither honor, nor influence in a speculative point of view,
to those who patronize it, yet it has patrons and admirers not
a few among the learned, — the good, — and the great, — who
consider it no reduction of their dignity to be the friends of
gardeners, — to promote gardening, and even to engage in its
practical operations. But I am digressing from my point :
I have already tired your editorial patience, by the length of
this communication, so I will throw down my pen, and re-
main yours, appreciating as I do, your endeavors to improve
and elevate the standing and skill of professional gardeners.
New Haven, January, 1850.

Art. II. Descriptions and Engravings of Select Varieties
of Apples. By the Editor.

We continue our description of Apples from our last vol-
ume : —

XXYII. Jonathan. Kenrick's American Orchardist.

Phihp Rick, ) ^^ g^^g American collections.
King Philip, 5

In a letter under date of March, 1848, Mr. Manning writes
us as follows : — " I send you a few specimens of Judge
Duel's favorite apple, the Jonathan, Avhich I do not recollect
that you have yet particularly noticed. I have found it dis-

of Select Varieties of Apples. 61

tinguished for the qualities of productiveness, beauty and
long keeping. These I send you now I think you will find,
perhaps, not quite so rich as the Baldwin, but more juicy and
sprightly. I think the size will average about the same as
the Baldwin, and I have found it keep about as well as
the Roxbury Russet. I have a small tree (which you, per-
haps, may have noticed) which presents a beautiful appear-
ance when hanging full, — as it always does in a bearing
season, — of its highly colored apples." Mr. Manning's
specimens, though small, we found fully to sustain the char-
acter he has given the Jonathan ; and the last year, having
some larger samples from our own trees, we are enabled to
give a full description of this excellent apple {fig. 3).

Fig. 3. Jonathan.

Judge Buel sent specimens of the Jonathan to the Mass.
Horticultural Society in 1829, and stated that it was " an
Esopus seedling, and sometimes called the New Spitzen-
berg." Subsequently Mr. Kenrick described it in the Am.
Orchardist, on the authority of Judge Buel. It originated
on the farm of Mr. Philip Rick, of Woodstock, Ulster Co.,
N. Y. and the original tree was growing there, a few years

62 Descriptions and Engravings

since. It was named in honor of Jonathan Harbrauck, Esq.,
from whom Judge Buel first received the fruit.

The Jonathan is one of the richest colored and most
beautiful of our native apples. The trees are good growers,
making vigorous, though rather slender, wood, and come into
bearing early, compared with most apples. It is a variety
admirably suited for dwarf trees, as it naturally forms a low
and compact head. Wood, light brownish chestnut.

Size, medium, about two and a half inches broad, and
two deep ; Form, roundish, regularly shaped, narrowing
little to the eye : Skin, fair, smooth, with a deep yellow
ground, nearly or quite covered with bright red, shaded with
crimson and purplish red on the sunny side : Stem, medi-
um length, about one inch long, rather slender, curved, and
deeply sunk in a rather contracted, regularly formed cavity :
Eye, rather small, partially open, and considerably sunk in a
furrowed basin ; segments of the calyx short : Flesh, white,
sometimes tinged with red, fine, crisp and tender : Juice,
abundant, rich, subacid, sprightly and very high flavored :
Core, small, close : Seeds, medium sized, oblong, flattened.
Ripe from December to May.

XXVIII. Esopus Spitzenberg. Cox's View, &c.

iEsopus Spitzemberg, Hort. Soc. Cat. 3d Ed.
Esopus Spitzemberg, Kenrick's Am. Orchardist.
iEsopus Spitzenburgh, Fruits and Fruit Trees of America.

The Esopus Spitzenberg, {Jig. 4,) is one of the most famous
of American apples, and ranks with the Baldwin and New-
town pippin, among the best varieties which have been
produced. It originated at Esopus, on the Hudson river, a
locality celebrated for fine apples, and has been very gener-
ally disseminated through the Middle and Western States.
In New England it has not yet been very extensively grown.
An impression has prevailed that it can only be raised in fine
condition near the place of its origin, and Mr. Coxe remarks
that it "is supposed to deteriorate when transplanted to the
south of the Highlands on the Hudson River." Great quan-
tities are raised throughout New York State, where it is

of Select Varieties of Apples.

63

highly esteemed, and the Eastern Markets are supplied from
this source ; those of fine quality always commanding a high
price and quick sale. Recently quite a number of trees of
this apple have been planted in the orchards of Massachu-

Fig. 4. Esopus Spitzenberg.

setts, and an opportunity will soon be afforded of satisfacto-
rily ascertaining whether it will succeed as well as in New
York.

The Tree has a very erect, upright habit while young,
with rather slender, dark colored shoots ; but when full
grown the branches become somewhat pendulous.

Size, large, about three inches broad and three deep:
Form, oblong, slightly ribbed at the base, and narrowing
little to the crown : Skin, fair, smooth, rich deep brilliant
red, approaching to scarlet, indistinctly streaked with crimson,
and regularly covered with large, prominent, somewhat ob-
long yellow specks : Stem, rather short, about half an inch
long, projecting scarcely beyond the fruit, moderately stout,
and deeply inserted in a rather contracted cavity : Eye, small,

64

Descriptions and Engravings

closed, and sunk in a deep, somewhat abruptly depressed and
furrowed basin ; segments of the calyx twisted : Flesh, yel-
low, crisp and rather fine : Juice, abundant, brisk, sub-
acid, high flavored and excellent : Core, large, rather open.
Ripe in December and keeps till February.

XXIX. Red Gilliflower. Mag. of Hort. Vol. YII. p. 49.

Scolloped Gilliflower, according to Thomas's Fruit Culturist.
Black Gilliflower, of some collections.

Although the Red Gilliflower (Jig. 5, ) is ranked by Pomol-
ogists as only a second rate apple, yet the extent to which it
is cultivated, as well as the estimation in which it is held, —

Fig. 5. Gilliflower.

if its ready sale in our markets can be considered any criterion
of a popular apple, — induces us to give some account of it.

of Select Varieties of Apples. 65

The Gilliflower, like many other excellent varieties is only
cultivated extensively in Western New York, where it prob-
ably originated, and is but occasionally found in the orchards
of New England. The Eastern markets are annually sup-
plied with it from New York, and its large size, good appear-
ance, and very tender flesh, render it a favorite with many
who dislike the firmer texture of the Esopus Spitzenberg and
Newtown pippin.

Mr. Manning first gave a brief description of it, in one of
our early volumes, (VII. p. 49,) in his account of upwards of
one hundred varieties of apples which had fruited in the Po-
mological Garden, and he characterized it as a '■' winter fruit,
much prized in some parts of the country." Subsequent
writers have noticed it, but they appear to have copied Mr.
Manning's remarks, without adding anything new, either as
regards its origin or merits.

Size, large, about three inches broad, and three and a
quarter long : Form, conical, little flattened at the base, oc-
casionally ribbed, and tapering much to the crown, which is
quite small : Skin, fair, smooth, with a dull red ground, very
finely striped on the sunny side with dark purplish red,
sometimes little russeted around the stem, and covered with
small yellowish specks : Stem, short, about half an inch in
length, rather stout, curved, and inserted in a somewhat an-
gular, moderately deep and contracted cavity : Eye, small,
closed, and slightly depressed in a shallow furrowed basin ;
segments of the calyx short : Flesh, white, rather coarse, and
very tender : Juice, tolerably plentiful, pleasant, subacid,
with an agreeable, spicy aroma : Core, large, rather open :
Seeds, medium size, plump. Ripe from November to Feb-
ruary.

In some localities in New York, this is sometimes called
the Black Gilliflower, from its dark red skin ; and the Cat-
alogues of several nurserymen enumerate it under the same
name.

VOL. XVI. NO. II. 9

66 Notes on some Varieties of Peas.

Art. III. Notes on some Va7'ieties of Peas grown in the
Garden of the Horticultural Society in 1849. By Robert
Thompson, Superintendent of the Orchard and Kitchen
Garden Department. From the Journal of the London
Horticultural Society.

A GREAT number of new varieties of peas have been intro-
duced to notice within a few years, some of which are
really distinct and excellent sorts, while many of them, and
perhaps the greater part, are so much like the older kinds,
that they are not deserving of a name. Among the mass of
kinds it is difficult to tell which are the good, and which the
inferior ones, only from actual experience ; and this expe-
rience few individuals have the time or the opportunity of
acquiring. Luckily the London Horticultural Society have
considered this as one of the duties to be accomplished by
its experimental garden, thus relieving cultivators from the
labor of doing so. The first experiments with the pea were
made several years ago, and the results published in the
Transactions of the Society, a copy of which will be found
in one of our earliest volumes (H. p. 427). All the varieties
having any reputation at that time, numbering forty-three,
were fully described, the period of their maturity and other
particulars given, by Mr. Gordon, the Superintendent of the
Kitchen garden department of the Society.

Six years ago, (Vol. X. p. 91,) we detailed the results of
our own experiments with six varieties of peas, among which
were the Prince Albert and other new and rare kinds, which
had not then been proved in the Society's garden : and
as bringing up the experiments to the present time, we
now have the pleasure of giving an account of a trial of all
the new sorts, made last year under the direction of Mr.
Robert Thompson, in which the peculiarities of each are ac-
curately described, and their relative merits compared. After
reading this, cultivators will be able to make their selections
so as to include all the best, and at the same time produce
successive crops throughout the season : —

Notes on some Varieties of Peas. 67

The names of many new varieties of Peas having lately-
appeared in seed-lists, it was considered desirable to grow as
many of these varieties in the Society's garden as could be
collected in the present season, in order to ascertain their re-
spective merits. Accordingly, about forty packets, includ-
ing some of the old sorts for the purpose of comparison,
were sown on the same day, March 21st. Abundance of
rain fell in April and Ma}'-, and the plants in consequence
made a fair healthy growth, but their podding of course was
later than would be the case in hotter and drier seasons.
They were sown rather thinly than otherwise, and the pods
were generally well filled. On the whole, the circumstances
were favorable for correctly estimating the properties of the
different sorts.

Bishop^s New Long-pod. — This was presented to the
Society by Mr. John Ronalds, of Brentford ; sown March
21st ; fit for use June 28th ; about 2 feet high ; pods nearly
straight, almost cylindrical, containing 6 to 7 peas. An ex-
cellent prolific early dwarf white pea ; far superior to Bish-
op's Early Dwarf, which, doubtless, it will soon entirely
supersede.

Thompson's Early Dwarf. — Received from Messrs. Sutton
and Sons, Reading; sown March 21st; fit for use June
28th ; about 2 feet high ; pods small, round, containing 4 to
5 medium-sized white peas. A tolerably prolific variety, but
not equal to the preceding.

Prince Albert. — Received from Mr. Kernan, Covent Gar-
den; sown March 21st; fit for use June 20th ; about 3 feet
high ; this and the Early Kent appear to be varieties of the
Early Frame. They are, however, not quite so tall as it,
and they ripen at least a week earlier. Valuable for its
earliness.

Early Warivick and Early Race-horse. — These proved
to be, generally, the Early Frame.

Early Hero. — Presented by Mr. Glendinning ; sown March
21st ; fit for use July 6th ; height 5 to 5| feet. This is not
a very early pea ; it is, however, a good bearer ; pods slightly
curved, a little flattened, containing 6 to 7 medium-sized
white peas of good quality.

68 Notes on some Varieties of Peas.

Doigt de Dame [Ladifs Finger). — Received from M.
Vilmorin, of Paris; sown March 21st; fit for use July 4th ;
from 5i to 6 feet high ; pods long, cylindrical, containing 6
to 7 white peas. A good pea, hut does not bear so abund-
antly as some others.

Shilling'' s Grotto. — Received from Mr. Kernan, Covent
Garden ; sown March 21st ; fit for use June 27th ; grows to
the height of A\ or 5 feet ; pods short, thick, but badly filled,
containing 4 to 6 white peas. A bad bearer this season.

Grimstone''s Egyptian Pea. — Presented by Mr. Grimstone,
Herbary, Highgate, accompanied with a pamphlet, in which
it was stated that the peas under the above name, were part
of the product of one of three peas that were found among
the dust, on opening a vase presented by Sir Gardner Wilkin-
son to the British Museum ; the characters on this vase proved
it to be 2844 years old, or upw^ards, during which period it
had lain buried in a mummy pit. A few of the peas re-
ceived at the Garden were sown in 1848 ; but they did not
thrive well, owing to the very dry weather in the early part
of the season. Their habit of growth so much resembled
that of the Dwarf Branching Marrow, that it was this year
thought advisable to sow both side by side. With every
advantage of comparison thus afforded by the proximity of
the plants, no difference could be observed between Grim-
stone's Egyptian Pea and the Dwarf Branching Marrow.
The growth of the plants, their foliage, flowers, pods, and
seeds exhibited precisely the same characteristics.

Divarf Branching Mari'oio, Syn. New Dwarf Branching
Marrow. — Received from Mr. Glendinning ; sown March
21st ; fit for use July 2nd ; about 2 feet high ; stems strong,
with short joints ; leaflets broad ; flowers large, rather tufted,
on short peduncles, cream-colored ; pods nearly straight,
flattish, containing about 6 middle-sized white peas. Only
a moderate bearer.

Queeti of Dioarfs. — Received from Mr. Kernan ; sown
March 21st;' fit for use July 20th ; about 18 inches high;
pods large and flat, containing only 4 to 6 large white peas.
A moderate bearer.

Notes on some Varieties of Peas. 69

Bcllamy''s Early Green Marrow. — Received from Messrs.
Sutton and Sons ; sown March 21st ; fit for use June 30th :
from 4^ to 5 feet high ; pods long, straight, cylindrical, con-
taining 6 to 7 peas, some of which when ripe and dry are
white ; others are olive-green. A good bearer, and on the
whole an excellent early pea.

Sutto7i^s Snperb Green Marrow. — From Messrs. Sutton
and Sons ; sown March 21st ; fit for use July 14th ; from 5|
to 6 feet high ; pods flattish, nearly straight, containing about
6 large peas ; olive-green when dry ; bears tolerably ; but
the peas, in a young state, are not sufficiently sugary ; on the
contrary, they have a little of the harshness peculiar to the
wild or grey pea. It is therefore not to be recommended.

New Indented Green Marrow. — Presented by Mr. Glen-
dinning ; sown March 21st ; fit for use July ISth ; about 5
feet high. A good pea, resembling Knight's Green Marrow ;
but the peas, when green, are not so sugary, and when dry
they are less indented.

Victoria MaiTow. — Received from Mr, Kernan ; sown
March 21st ; fit for use July 24th ; height 6 to 6| feet ; pods
nearly 4 inches in length, generally in pairs, straight, round-
ish, containing 6, 7, or 8 large peas of good quality ; olive-
green when dry, and slightly indented. This variety bears
some resemblance to Knight's Tall Marrow ; but the pods
are larger and remarkably long and well filled ; like all others
it is less sugary than Knight's ; still the quality is very good.
It is a most abundant bearer ; and when we take into consid-
eration the length of pods, the number and size of the peas
they contain, it must be admitted that this is a remarkable
sort, highly deserving of cultivation.

Flack's Neiv Large Victoria. — Presented by Mr. Glen-
dinning ; sown March 21st ; fit for use July 2nd ; height 2J
to 3 feet ; pods middle-sized, flattish, nearly straight ; peas
generally 6 in a pod, large, compressed, blue when dry, and
some partly white. A very good prolific dwarf variety.

Bedman-s Imperial. — Received from Mr. Glendinning
and from Mr. Kernan; sown March 21st; fit for use July
14th ; from 2i to 3 feet high ; pods somewhat curved,

70 Pomological Gossip.

roundish, containing generally 6 to 7 large blue peas of good
quality. An excellent bearer ; a variety well deserving of
recommendation.

New Imperial. — Sown March 21st ; fit for use Jfme 30th ;
height 3| feet ; pods small, cylindrical; peas blue. On the
whole, this variety is inferior to many others.

Macleaii's Seedling. — Presented by Dr. Maclean, of Col-
chester; sown March 2lst; fit for use July 3d; height 2
feet ; pods large, nearly straight, a little flattened ; peas very
large, compressed, of excellent quality, indented when dry,
and of a bluish color. A valuable prolific dwarf variety.

British Queen. — Received from Mr. Kernan ; sown March
21st ; fit for use July 23d ; about 5 feet high ; pods large,
straight, nearly round, containing generally 7 very large peas,
nearly the size of small beans, indented when dry, and of a
light olive-green color. A good bearer. This bears consid-
erable resemblance to Knight's Marrow ; but differs in the
peas being larger, somewhat thicker in the skin, and scarcely
so sugary ; it is, however, a valuable sort for those who pre-
fer large peas.

Gros Vert Normand. — Received from M. Vilmorin, of
Paris ; sown March 21st ; fit for use July 20th ; height about
6 feet ; pods slightly curved, rather flat, containing 5 to 7
large peas, of a bluish-green color when dry. A tolerably
good bearer, and might prove useful as a late pea.

Fairheard''s Champion of England. — Received from Mr.
Glendinning ; sown March 21st ; fit for use June 30th ;
about 5 feet high ; pods long, somewhat curved, and slightly
flattened, containing 7 to 8 large peas of very sugary quality,
indented, and of a bluish color when dry. An abundant
bearer, highly deserving of cultivation.

Akt. V. Pomological Gossip. By the Editor.

What is the Large Early Scarlet Strawberry ? At the
recent meeting of the Pomological Congress in New York,

Pomological Gossip. 71

three varieties of Strawberries were added to the List of
Fruits worthy of general cultivation : these varieties were
the Large Early Scarlet (as reported by the general Com-
mittee,) Hovey's Seedling and Boston Pine. The two first
of which were unanimously added to the list, and the last,
with but a single dissenting vote, and that by Mr. T. Han-
cock of Burlington, New Jersey, who said he had found it a
shy bearer on his sandy soil. It was highly gratifying to
find our seedlings so highly appreciated and eulogized, by
gentlemen from almost every state in the Union.

But the question arises, what is the Large Early Scarlet ?
The Massachusetts State Committee, among whom were S.
Walker, Esq. President of the Massachusetts Horticultural
Society, and Mr. R. Manning of Salem, reported the Early
Virginia, as one which should be added to the list : and the
same fruit was afterwards reported as the Large Early Scar-
let. The vote, we have said, was unanimous ; but yet it was
a singular one. Gentlemen from New England stated that it
was synonymous with the Early Virginia, one of our earliest
varieties, and they voted for it, knowing it to be so from their
own experience. On the contrary, gentlemen from New
York and the West, denounced the Early Virginia as a
" worthless berry, ''^ and in no way to be compared to the
Large Early Scarlet. The question then was, were they
diff'erent in quality, or only in name ? and on this point, Mr.
Barry, of Rochester, stated they were very different fruits :
as he had had plants of the Early Virginia from Boston, and
they were quite unlike his Early Scarlet ; so that while half
of the members of the convention were voting for the Earh'
Virginia which the other half pronounced Avorthless ; that
half were voting for a variety that the other knew nothing
about. For our own part, we do not believe there is any
difference between the Early Virginia and the Large Early
Scarlet. The former is certainly not a " worthless " berry,
though we do not think it worth cultivation only on ver^^
light sandy soils, which are likely to be affected by drought.
In good ground the Boston Pine will produce twice as much
fruit, and quite as early as the Early Virginia, to say nothing

72 Pomological Gossip.

of its superior size, flavor and beauty, and its greater value
in the market.

The Hanners Pear. — In our volume for 1846, (XII. p.
150,) our correspondent, Mr. Manning, gave a list of syno-
nyms of pears, which he had detected in the Pomological
Garden, and among the number was the Hanners, which he
stated was nothing more than the Gushing, one of our old-
est native varieties. In a note to his communication, we
stated that " this must have been an error, as the true Han-
ners was a different fruit from the Gushing." Knowing the
accuracy of Mr. Manning, however, on all questions concern-
ing the synonyms of fruits, we intended to refer to the sub-
ject again, after we had examined both his trees and our
own, but from various causes we have not done so ; and
therefore seize the opportunity to confirm the truth of Mr.
Manning's observations.

Some years ago, when making up our collection of pear
trees, we procured all the American varieties we could find
in our Nurseries, and among the number was the Gushing,
which we had from Messrs. Downing, of Newburgh. This
was in 1842. The tree was placed with others in our
specimen collection, and grew away rapidly, but did not come
into bearing till 1847, a year after Mr. Manning's communi-
cation was written. We had previously described and
figured the Gushing, (Vol. IX. p. 371,) and the Hanners,
(XIII. p. 490,) and in our account of the latter variety, we
alluded to the opinions of some of our Pomological friends in
Salem, who had even then intimated the identity of the two
pears. We admitted that the Hanners did greatly resemble
the Gushing, " having the same melting flesh and yellow
skin." But what set all doubts at rest, we remarked, was the
diff'erence in the " color of the wood, and form of the leaf;"
for while the shoots of the Hanners were " upright and of a
dull yellow, those of the Gushing were partially spreading, and
of a dull red ; that the leaves of the Gushing were consider-
ably serrated, while those of the Hanners were nearly entire."

In making out this diff'erence of the Gushing from the
Hanners, we based our information upon the character of our

Pomological Gossip. 73

own tree, and believing it to be true to name, from the source
we obtained it, we could not reconcile the similarity ; and
we maintained their distinctness until our tree came into
bearing in 1847, when it proved to be the Bloodgood ! Our
views were then immediately changed, and upon an exami-
nation of the Gushing, in Mr. Manning's garden, not having
it in our collection only under the name of Hanners, we were
convinced that he was right. Other opportunities have since
occurred to settle the question beyond doubt. We are there-
fore happy, even at this late hour, to do justice to Mr. Man-
ning's discriminating judgment in the detection of the syn-
onyme.

The question then arises, where did the tree in Mr. Han-
ners's garden come from ? The Gushing was first introduced
to notice by Mr. S. Downer in 1829, while the Hanners, so
called, had been in bearing more than twenty years, and the
fruit had been sold in Boston market under the name of St.
Michael for a long time. In our account of the Hanners
pear, gathered from Mr. Hanners himself, we stated that the
tree was one which he procured from the garden of his
neighbor, Mr. Webb, and had never been grafted. But from
the age of Mr. Hanners, and his confusion of facts in regard
to the tree, the statement we gave was that which we could
best gather from him. We think, however, that he stated he
purchased two small pear trees in the market, and, if so,
one of them might have been a sucker from the original
Gushing, or have been grafted by some person, who, even at
that early day, knew the merits of the variety. In no other
way can its existence in Mr. Hanners's garden be accounted
for.

The Easter Beurre' Pear. — No pear has been more un-
justly abused than this. Acknowledged to be, when well
ripened, the finest of all winter pears, it would naturally be
supposed that considerable pains would be taken to raise so
valuable a fruit. Yet often we hear it condemned as an un-
certain variety, scarcely worthy a place in a good collection.
Mr. Rivers, an English nurseryman of some experience,
stated that ''he thought it a splendid pear, and one that musl

VOL. XVI. — NO. ir. 10

74 Pomological Gossip.

always sell well ;" and he grafted three or four hundred trees
with it. The grafts grew well, " bloomed bountifully, bore
a fine fruit, which loas hard and never ripeiied.^^ After
several years' trial they were grafted with the Beurre Capiau-
mont ! Now with some inexperienced cultivators, who
know but little about growing pears, and much less about
ripening them, such a proceeding would be only what might
be expected. But that Mr. Rivers should commit such an
act, must surprise every intelligent cultivator. The Beurre
Capiaumont preferred to the Easter Beurre ! Truly there is
no accounting for tastes.

For four or five successive weeks, specimens of the Easter
Beurre have been exhibited before the Massachusetts Horti-
cultural Society, which were ripened by Mr. D. T. Curtis of
Boston ; they were taken without regard to size, as picked
from the tree, some of them knurly, indifferent specimens, and
others large and perfectly grown ; yet they were all ripened;
that is, the small ones which ordinarily are thrown away,
were in as good condition for eating, — though of course, not
as excellent — as the large and fair pears, showing conclu-
sively that the general complaint about their hardness,
shrivelling up, &LQ,., is no evidence of the poorness of the
fruit, but rather the want of a knowledge how to ripen the
crop.

Oar correspondent, Mr. Washburn of Plymouth, informs
us that he has just sold the last of his Easter Beurre pears, the
produce of one dwarf tree. They brought him the hand-
some sum of twenty dollars ; and less than a bushel of fruit.
He finds no difficulty whatever in ripening the pears ; his
practice is to let the fruit hang on the tree as late as possible,
even after two or three frosts, if they are not likely to be
very severe. They are then carefully gathered, each pear
wrapped up in double papers, and then placed away in a cool
joom, kept at an even temperature, where they are allowed to
remain until they are wanted for use ; they are then brought
into a warmer temperature, where, in the course of a fortnight
they begin to change color, and soon after become fit for eat-
ing. In this way, they may be ripened off in succession,
from the middle of December to the middle of March.

Pomological Gossip. 75

Mr. Rivers says, that in England " the million seem to buy-
pears in the autumn only ;" this is undoubtedly true, for in
that climate there is little other good fruit to be had, even at
thai season, only at prices at which the million cannot buy.
But supply Covent Garden Market with peaches at 50 cents
per bushel, Porter and Fall Pippin apples at the same price ;
Isabella grapes at three cents per pound, and melons at six
cents each, and we fancy autum,n pears would pay full as
small a profit as winter ones.

In this country, therefore, we are not to be guided wholly
by the experience of English cultivators ; our fine climate
brings to perfection all the fruits of temperate regions, and
an abundance of fine peaches, delicious grapes, and other
fruits are supplied throughout the autumn. It should be the
effort, therefore, with American cultivators, to produce those
fruits which will fnrnish a supply during our long winters,
and for this purpose none have a greater claim for the prefer-
ence, than such pears as the D'Aremberg, Glout Morceau,
Winter Nelis, Monarch, Beurre Ranee, Easter Beurre, &c.

The Winter Harvey Apple. — A fine variety under this
name, has been brought into Boston market for several years,
from Maine, and they have always commanded a liberal price,
both from their fairness and excellence. A few years ago,
Mr. W. Kenrick sent some of the apples, which he received
from Maine, for exhibition before the Massachusetts Horti-
cultural Society, and he also gave us one of the specimens.
We found it to be a fine fruit ; and we should have given a
description and figure of it before this, only that we have been
waiting to ascertain if it was a new and distinct variety.
Since a communication has been opened by Railroad to Ver-
mont, the facilities of travel have brought many of the in-
telligent cultivators of that fine country to the city, and great
quantities of produce have been forwarded, including large
quantities of apples, of which the stock has been so limited
in this neighborhood. Among them we have been surprised
to find many barrels of the same kind we had from Maine,
and called, in Vermont, the Winter Pippin. One gentleman
informs us he had twenty bushels from one tree. The apple

76 Pomological Gossip.

is of large size, somewhat conical form, with a smooth green
skin, slightly suffused with blush, and possessing a rich subacid
flesh and excellent flavor. It is just now in perfection, but
will keep till March. We shall, now that we have learned
more in regard to it, describe and figure it in a short time.

Josling's St. Albans Grape. — In our last volume we have
copied several papers from our foreign journals, in which all
the writers agree that this grape, about which so much has
been said, — and from which so much money was made, (up-
wards of ^10,000,) by the said to be originator, Mr. Josling, —
showing that it is nothing more than the Chasselas Musque,
of the old authors. Mr. R. Thompson, on whose endorsement
of its excellent qualities and distinctness as a new grape, most
cultivators purchased their vines, has written an article in a
late number of the Journal of the London Horticultural
Society, in which he gives an account of the original vine
under the care of Mr. Josling, which he particularly exam-
ined, and he states, that after a careful comparison of the
leaves of the Chasselas Musque and the St. Albans, no differ-
ence could he detected. The article closes with a recommend-
ation of the fine quality of the grape, which, if it should not
eventually prove to be new, must ever be considered as well
worthy of cultivation ! This certainly is not very flattering
to purchasers, who paid one pound sterling each for the
vines.

When this variety was first brought to notice, we copied
a full account of it in our Magazine, (Vol. XIII. p. 116,) and
added, that " the description answered exceedingly well for
the Muscat Blanc Hatif," a variety we had cultivated in our
collection, and which we then supposed to be new, but which
has proved to be the old Chasselas Musque ; and by the last
Gardener^ s Chi^onicle^ we see Josling's St. Albans is pro-
nounced, probably by Mr. Thompson himself, as identical
with that grape.

That a variety so long cultivated should be so little known,
is somewhat remarkable. And as the history of its introduc-
tion to English gardens may not be generally known, we
copy the following from the North British Journal of Horti-

Pomological Gossip. 77

culture, by Mr. Mcintosh, the Editor, which cannot fail to be
of interest to all grape growers : —

A bunch of Grapes was also exhibited from the same
place, to show a strange peculiarity in a sort, which has,
from extraordinary circumstances, within the last 25 years,
attracted considerable notice, and stands at present in rather
an equivocal position. This grape is the Chasselas Masque
of the French gardens, a grape apparently unknown to our
modern Noah's, from I^angley, Speedily, &c., down to Mr.
R. Thompson, the highest Pomological authority this coun-
try can boast of. It was enumerated by him in the earliest
editions of the Catalogue of Fruits cultivated in the London
Horticultural Society's Garden, and next after by Mr. Loudon,
in the edition 1835 of " The Encyclopaedia of Gardening,"
as furnished by Mr. Thompson. It was introduced into
England by the London Horticultural Society, under the
name above given.

Two circumstances in its history may be worth narrating.
Mr. Thomas Fairbairn, who preceded us as gardener to the
Prince Leopold of Sax Cobourg at Claremont, procured cut-
tings of this identical vine from a garden in Sussex, and be-
lieving it to be a new variety, as it had been represented to
him, propagated a number of plants of it, several of which
he gave us, which were planted in the Claremont gardens.
The remainder of these plants found their way into the es-
tablishment of one of the most respectable commercial fruit
cultivators in the neighborhood of London. This party
believing also that it was a new grape, and one of great
merit, propagated it extensively, and sold the plants at a
guinea each. It is unnecessary either to give the name of
the party, or that by which the vine was sold, as the idea of
its being distinct from the Chasselas Musque was no sooner
known to that excellent person, than he repudiated it, and
the name it held for a short time is now obsolete.

We continued, however, to grow it at Claremont as a
supposed new variety, and there it obtained the name of
the Golden Drop. Sir Charles Monke and the late Countess

78 Pomological Gossip.

of Tankerville, in walking through the Vineries at Clare-
mont, and expressing their high opinion of its flavor, inquired
its name. We could only reply that it was a new grape,
for which we had no name. That excellent lady remarked
that it ought to be called the Golden Drop. We believe we
were the means of introducing this grape into Scotland under
the latter name.

A year or two ago, Mr. Josling, a small nurseryman at St.
Alban's, brought this identical grape out again, as a new
variety, and sold it at a very high price, and hence the name
of Josling's St. Alban's grape. Here we have an instance of
the evil of fruits being allowed to exist under different names,
as the Chasselas Musque, the Golden Drop, and^Josling's St.
Alban's are identically one and the same. This grape has
hitherto been admitted to be an excellent bearer, and pos-
sessing a very high musky flavor, but that it invariably
cracked in the skin as soon as ripe and immediately decayed.
Such a character we have given it ourselves from the fact
that we had always found it so. This season, however, its
character in this respect appears to have completely changed,
for those ripened by the middle of September are still in high
perfection, one of which is the bunch exhibited before the
Society, and many such still continue on the vines. We
have, perhaps, been a little too prolix in reference to this
grape, but we think it our duty to make the circumstance
known, that such of our readers as may have the vine, may
be induced to continue its cultivation.

To this must be added that the party named in the above
account was Mr. Wilmot, of Isleworth, who disseminated
the vine under the name of Wilmot's Muscat Muscadine, at
one guinea a plant, a price which we paid in 1844. In 1843
we received a vine from Mr. Buist, under the name of Muscat
Blanc Hatif, which as we have said, proves to be identical ;
and in 1847 we had one from France called the Muscat Jesus,
which is also synonymous. With all these facts, we trust
hereafter it may be known only under its original name of
Chasselas Musque.

General Notices. 79

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General J\htices.

On the Culture of Mignonette in Pots. — Reseda odorata, or the
Mignonette, is a native of Egypt. It is an annual, growing from eight
inches to a foot in height, and is quite hardy enough to stand this climate in
summer, but it will not live through our winter, unless in some sheltered sit-
uation. In order to obtain a succession, recourse must be had to pot cul-
ture, which will form tlie subject of my remarks. The beginning of Jan-
uary is early enough to make the first sowing for a spring supply ; the soil
wliich should be used, should consist of equal parts of loam, dung, and leaf-
mould, well mixed togetlier ; it would be well to mix a little sand witli the
compost when sifted. The pots should be from four to six inches wide for
this sowing, and these should be prepared by placing a crock over the hole
in the bottom, and laying on this about an inch and a half of the siftings ;
after that, fill them witli the soil to half an inch of the rim ; press it evenly
and firmly, and on this sow the seed regularly ; and if its quality can be de-
pended on, eighteen seeds will be enough for each pot, — tliey will come up
with more strength than if sown tliicker. Sift a little soil over the seeds,
and give it a gentle pressure with the hand, leaving the surface smooth and
even ; then give a watering (using the rose) with tepid water, which will
warm the soil and assist germination ; plunge the pots in a frame with a gen-
tle bottom heat ; give but little air until the plants begin to appear ; after-
wards give air more freely, according as the atmosphere will allow, avoid-
ing, at all times, the admission of cold air in great currents, as mignonette
suflTers very much from rash exposure to cold winds. When the plants be-
come a little hardened, take oflT the lights every fine day from eleven to one
o'clock, which will prevent them from being drawn, and better enable tliem
to support themselves. As soon as the seed-leaves are fully developed, thin
out the plants, leaving, at this time, twelve or thirteen in each pot. This
number should be kept for a while, as they are liable to damp off, if it should
happen to be wet and dull weather. When they have made four or five
leaves, thin tliem out to seven plants, which will be quite sufficient. At the
same time, stir tlie surface of the soil, which generally becomes hard by con-
tinual watering, and thereby prevents the access of air to the roots. When
the sun begins to act powerfully upon thenl, a thin shading for two or three
hours during the heat of the day will be of great service by obstructing its
rays, which give to the foliage a yellow and unsightly appearance. When
they have attained tlie height of tliree or four inches, they must be tied up,
to prevent them from falling over the sides of the pot ; in doing tliis, put six
small stakes, at equal distances, close by the edge of the pot ; then pass a
strip of matting with a turn round each of the stakes, and fasten it ; the
stakes thojld be left three inches at least higher that tlie plants, as they
will require a second tie. If the roots have now found their way through
the bottom of the pot, they must be broken off, or the plants will receive a

80 General Notices.

great check when finally removed. In re-plunging, give them sufficient
room to prevent their being drawn : they will require great attention till the
beginning of May, when they will, if properly managed, be in good condi-
tion for removing to tlie greenhouse. The next sowing should be made the
latter end of March; the same compost as above mentioned should be used
for this sowing ; the same sized pots should be used, and the same number
of plants allowed to remain in each pot; and the treatment already men-
tioned should be followed by the beginning of May. If tlie frames are
wanted for other purposes, the pots may be plunged in some shady place in
the open air; tliey will come into bloom the latter end of June. Other suc-
cessional sowings may be made about tlie latter end of May and the
middle of July ; these may be placed in a sheltered spot out of doors, and
with attention to watering, thinning, and tying, as above mentioned, they
will come into bloom the beginning of August, and the middle of October.
The last of these sowings should be removed to a frame as soon as there
appears danger of frost. The next sowing, which is to provide plants for
blooming through the winter months, should be made the first week m Sep-
tember. Great attention is necessary at this time, to prevent them from
damping off, as mignonette is very liable to damp off" in dull weather, and is
lilcewise very impatient of water, which should be applied in tlie morning :
then the foliage will become dry before night. For this sowing I should
use smaller pots — giving them good drainage — and use the compost pre-
viously recommended. In preparing the frame for them, it should be raised
well behind, so that it may incline nicely towards the south, for the purpose
of gaining tlie benefit of the sun ; the bottom of tlie frame should be covered
with old rubbish of any kind , over this tlirow a lot of rough coal ashes, and
on tliis place six or seven inches of sifted ashes. It must be arranged so
that when the pots are plunged they may not be more than ten inclies from
the glass. When the seeds are vegetated, give as much air as possible, and
the plants will begin to flower the latter end of November, and keep in good
condition for more than two montlis. The last sowing should be made the
latter end of September or beginning of October, using the same sort of soil
and pots, and preparing the frame in the same manner as directed for the
last. Great care must be taken in every respect, and by the latter end of
February the plants will begin flower. The glass must be covered every
night with mats, and some long litter put round the frame, to prevent tlie
frost from injuring the plants. In being thinned, the plants should be left
as near one size as possible in each pot, keeping the largest in some and the
smallest in others ; this will give a longer succession of bloom. If these re-
marks be attended to, a regular supply of mignonette will be insured. —
John MacArdell, Foreman, Castle Hill Gardens. [We append tlie fol-
lowing, being the remarks of an experienced mignonette grower in the
neighborhood of London.] — The mignonette sown in September and kept in
cold frames, and protected from rain and frost, with as much light and air
as can be given through the winter, will be in flower early in April, and
will be much stronger, hardier, and earlier in flower than tliat sown in
spring. If it be necessary to retard the flowering of a portion of the crop,

Domestic Notices. 81

it can readily be effected by pincliing out the points of the shoots about
the beginning of March. The spring-sown mignonette comes in very well
to succeed tliat sown in September. The July sowing should be in flower
about tlie beginning of November, and continue to flower tlirough the win-
ter. The sowing recommended the latter end of September or beginning of
October, would be very difficult to carry tlirough the months of November
and December, — at least, in the neighborhood of London — from the necessity
there would be in severe frosty weather of keeping the covering on for sev-
eral successive days. The plants being young and weak, would most likely
perish by damp. — [Gard. Jour., p. 772, 1849.)

Art. II. Domestic JVotices,

The Isabella Grape. — I write to enquire about the Diana grape, of which
I have seen so favorable a notice, — and to know if it is really hardy and good.
I do not dare to leave my Isabella grape vine exposed to the weatlier in
winter ; the buds would be injured, and the fruit prove abortive. Indeed, I
have lost one entirely, that girted eleven and a half inches at the ground, and
bore finely, by leaving it exposed a few winters since. It was killed to the
root, and never started again, although it was alive (at root), and bled enor-
mously, the sap forcing out through the bark in all directions. I raised, this
year, about three quarters of a bushel fseventy-one bunches) of the finest
Isabella grapes I ever saw. The vine I had of Messrs. Hovey & Co., two
and a half years since. It girts nine inches at the ground. It is now shel-
tered with long straw, and bound in with list, and was pruned December 1.
This is the only grape worth a farthing, in this extreme cold climate, for out
door culture, unless the Diana will prove hardy. The Catawba tmll not go
and that is the " end on't." — Yours, Trvly, Alex. Johnston, Jr. Wiscasset,
Me., January, 1850.

Transplanting large Trees in Winter. — I see Mr. Downing still
holds on to the hard work, pickaxe, old fashion idea of digging up trees and
setting them out again when everything is froze hard. It is hard, expensive
work, and is not a whit surer than my way, and twice as costly. My way is,
in a few words, to transplant large evergreens and other trees ; select the
Trees in February or March ; cover their frozen roots with evergreen boughs,
a foot deep, or more, and keep the frost there. Dig the hole in April, or last
of March, for the tree, and then go and get the tree, roots, frost and all ; set
it out first rate, and it will grow first rate. I have now Norway pines twenty
feet high, planted as above, three years since, — splendid trees now. — Yours
truly, A. Johnston, Jr., Wiscasset, Me., January, 1850.

Seedling Pears in Vermont. — Mr. L. C. Udal, of Pomfret, exhibited
five kinds of seedling pears, at the show of the Windsor County Agricultural
Society ; all of good appearance, and two of such degree of excellence, that
the Committee felt themselves justified in awarding to him tlie Discretiona-
ry Premium, to the amount of one dollar, Mr. Udal has other seedlings,
VOL. XVI. NO. II. H

82 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

which, with tliose exhibited, the Committee think deserve further attention
from the Society.

The Annual Exhibition of the Massachusetts Horticultural
; Society will be held on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, the 17th, 18th,
; and 19th of September next, as will be seen by a reference to the doings of
1 the Society, in another page. The place where it will be held has been re-
ferred to a committee, who will report at a future meeting. — Ed.

Estalishment of a Bureau of Agriculture. — The Vermont Legis-
lature, at a late session, voted to petition Congress to establish a Bureau of
Agriculture, and in accordance with that vote, appointed a committee to in-
quire into the subject and report upon the same. This report which is of
considerable length, was accepted by the Legislature, and approved by the
..Governor. We shall notice it in another number. — Ed.

Art. IIL Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, Januaiy 5, 1S50. — The stated quarterly meeting of the Society
was held to-day— the President in the chair.

The President, on opening the meeting, stated that it had not been custom-
ary to address the members, yet in the present condition of the Society, some
suf gestions had occurred to him, which he thought proper to lay before them.
His address was as follows : —

Gentlemen of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society : Your unanimous
suffrages have again placed me in a position that demands my thanks for the
honor conferred.

The past, tlie present, and the anticipations of the future, cheer my path,
as I feel assured I shall have your hearty cooperation in all my endeavors to
promote the interest of the science of Horticulture.

The year which has just closed, has removed from us one of our respected
and beloved members. His munificent bequest to this Society demands our
grateful remembrance, and the specimens of his taste for the beautiful,
in the highest branch of our science — landscape gardening — will com-
mand the attention and admhation of all who visit the spot rendered so lovely
by the genius of his own elevated mind.

Landscape Gardening is a branch of Horticulture, which the wealthy only
in other countries, can carry out with success, but in our extensive and free
domains, every industrious and enterprising man, with a love of Nature
cherished within his breast, may surround himself with the beautiful.

Improvements in this department may be seen in the grounds of the late
Hon. Theodore Lyman, the Hon. Thomas H. Perkins of Brookline, J. P.
Gushing, Esq. of Watertown, Hon. M. P. Wilder, and Samuel Downer, Jr.,
Esq., of Dorchester, and Otis Johnson, Esq. of Lynn. Nor can I refrain
from noticing the great improvements made in the nurseries generally, but
more particularly in the respective establishments of Messrs. Winship, of

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 83

Brighton, and Messrs. Hovey, ot Cambridge. Before I dismiss this sub-
ject, allow me to recommend for your consideration, tlie propriety of so
amending the By-Laws, as to provide for, and establish a Professorship of
Landscape Gardening.

Persons extensively engaged in the cultivation of fruit for the market, or
for their own use, have probably noticed the vast number of insects which
prey upon, or otlierwiso destroy the fruit, in all its stages, from the opening
of tlie flower bud to the period of its maturity. To counteract these devas-
tations, some persons have placed bottles, partly filled with sweetened water,
among the branches of their trees, thus destroying hundreds of thousands of
insects witliout discriminating between friends and foes. This is, in my
opinion, a subject worthy of consideration, and which might be placed in the
hands of our Professor of Entomoloicy for his investigation, and should he
consider it a fit subject for a public lecture, or lectures, he might be solicited
to communicate the result of his research, in that, or some other way, to tlie
members of this Society and the public. I would furtlier suggest, that the
Professor of Botany, and also the Professor of Horticultural Chemistry, be
consulted as to tlie expediency of delivering one or more lectures annually,
on the respective subjects committed to their charge.

The premiums offered, and the gratuities given by tlie Society, for many
years past, have produced a laudable competition among the cultivators of
excellent vegetables, beautiful flowers, and delicious fruits. As a natural
result, corresponding improvements have been made in the management of
Trees, Shrubs, Plants, &.c., in the Orchard, Garden, and Conservatory, but
not to that extent, probably, that would have been made, had tlie Society of-
fered liberal premiums for the best conducted, most productive, and econom-
ically managed establishments. I would therefore recommend that premi-
ums be oflTered, and gratuities be given by the Society, under tlie direction of
a Committee appointed for tliat purpose, whose duty it should be, to visit and
examine such places, as the proprietors thereof shall invite them so to do, at
such times and as oflen as they may deem proper, without any previous no-
tice having been given to the gardener, superintendent or other person having
charge of the same ; that the Committee may be able to form a correct judg-
ment, as to tlie general management, and state of cultivation on the premises,
and to report to tlie Society the most successful cultivators at home, as tlie
other Committees report the finest products exliibited in the Hall of the
Society.

The Hall of the Society is well located, and in every way adapted for tlie
present weekly and minor exhibitions of the Society ; but it is already found
to be entirely too limited for the larger displays. I would, therefore, suggest
that an arrangement be made to have the Annual Exhibition, in September
next, under a tent or tents of ample dimensions, in some suitable place as
near tlie centre of the city as possible. Such a show would probably give a
new impulse to the pursuits of Horticulture, and in some measure meet the
increasing demands of the public for more information on that subject. The
eye, the mirror of the tablet of memory, will ever be, in my opinion, the
pioneer in Horticultural science ; it should be first consulted, by being brought

84 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

in contact with the useful and beautiful — that the impressions made might
be contemplated — carried away and acted upon. For this purpose a larger
Hall will soon be necessary. Permit me, therefore, to suggest that our
present resources should be husbanded with as much economy as a liberal
and progressive management of the affairs of the Society will permit, to
enable it, at no distant day, to erect a Temple which shall be an ornament to
the City, and in every way adapted to the wants of the Society and the
public.

When the Society shall be provided with a suitable place for its exhibi-
tions, then, as soon as its funds will permit, the purchase of a piece of land
for an experimental garden, so much needed, will, I have no doubt, occupy
the attention of the Society. Such an establishment would extend the
sphere of our labors, and gratify the members by placing at their command
further means of usefulness.

The third number of the Transactions will be published as soon as practi-
cable. This number will complete the first volume, and I have the pleasure
to state, that a concise history of the Society from its commencement to the
present time, may be expected in its pages, from the pen of its first Presi-
dent, General Dearborn.

Gentlemen : It gives me great pleasure to embrace this opportunity, which
your kindness has given me, to present these suggestions for your considera-
tion and action, and to assure you of my wishes to cooperate with you in all
your endeavors to promote the usefulness of the Society, and the advancement
of Horticultural Knowledge,

The address, on motion of C. M. Hovey, was referred to a Special Com-
mittee of seven, to report upon the same at a future meeting. The commit-
tee were, J. S. Cabot, C. M. Hovey, C. Newhall, J. Breck, W. R. Austin,
Rev. D. Leach, and S. W. Cole.

The committe appointed at the last meeting to nominate a Committee of
Arrangements for the year, reported the names of the following members :

J. Breck, (chairman,) J. S. Cabot, D. Haggerston, A. D. Williams, Jr.,
W. R. Austin, J. F. Allen, Jos. Lovitt, O. Johnson, C. M. Hovey, Jas. Nu-
gent, A. McLennan, E. A. Story, and E. Wight. The report was accepted,
Avith tlie power of the committee to fill vacancies.

The Committee on tlie Library reported in part.

On motion of Mr. Cabot, a medal or piece of plate, of the value of ten
dollars, was \ oted to D. T. Curtis, for specimens of Easter Beurr6, and other
pears in a fine state of preservation.

Jas. R. Hayes, was elected a member of the Society.

Adjourned one week, to January 12th.

Exhibited. — Fruits : From D. T. Curtis, Easter Beurr6 pears, well ripened
and in fine condition. From J. F. Allen, Grapes — Black Hamburgh, West's
St. Peter's, Whortley Hall Seedling, Syrian, Muscat of Alexandria. These
grapes were fresh, well preserved, and the Black Hamburgh, especially, re-
tained much of their flavor.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

85

January I2th. — An adjourned meeting of tlie Society was held tliis day —
Vice President, B. V. French, in the chair.

Mr. Stickney presented tlie report of Finance, which was read and ac-
cepted.

The Committee of Finance in accordance with tlie provisions of the By-
Laws of said Society, submit the following Report of its Financial condi-
tion, as it existed on the 1st day of January, A. D. 1850, as per Treasur-
er's accounts, all of which the Committee find to be correctly cast, and
properly vouched : —

Receipts for the Year 1849.
Balance of Cash on hand, ..... #81 74

From Mount Auburn, ...... 2582 43

Dividend Mass. Hospital Life Ins. Co., . . . . 170 90

" Worcester Railroad, . . . . . 88 00

" Old Colony " 45 00

Josiah Bradlee, Esq. on Mortgage, .... 10,000 00

Treasurer's Note discounted at Tremont Bank, . . . 980 00

Donation of E. Beck, Esq. . . . . . 35 00

Sales of Railroad stocks, ..... 3,571 75

Rent of Store, 1,000 00

One half Taxes paid by Mr. Bowditch, . . . . 97 50

Rent of Hall, 863 55

Admission Fees, ....... 130 00

Receipts at door, semi-annual Exhibition, . . . 110 75

" " annual " . . . . 210 25

Assessments collected, ...... 858 00

Payments for the Year 1849.

$20,743 13

Paid Mortgage Note,

Interest on tlie same for 6 months,

#15,000 00
375 00

Taxes on Real Estate, .

195 00

Treasurer's Note at Tremont Bank,

1,000 00

Repairs and alterations, .
Gold Medals,

256 89
110 00

Printing and Advertising,

Drafts on account of Transactions,

450 00
193 83

Expenses for Annual Exhibition,

" " semi-Annual Exhibition,

324 00
218 00

Premiums and gratuities.
Salaries, and care of Hall

1,350 00
428 00

Interest on $10,000 Mortgage, .
Miscellaneous Items,

300 00
218 65

Cash in Treasury January 1, 1850,

242 22

#20,743 13

86

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Outstanding Claims against the Society, Jan. 1, 1850.

Unpaid Bills. ....... $90000

Memorandum check due Josiah Bradlee, Esq. to pay note at Tre-

mont Bank, ....... 1,000 00

For repairs and furniture of Library, .... 400 00

Premiums and gratuities for 1849, .... 1,500 00

1848, . . . .200 00

Mortgage on Real Estate,

Property of the Society.

Real Estate in School St.,
Furniture, 3 Chandeliers,

2 Bradlee Vases,

2 Marble Vases,

Jones Vase, .

Glass Ware, &c.

Safe, &c.

Flower Stands, Tables, &-c..

Library,

Appleton Fund,
Lyman "
Lowell "
Bradlee "

Permanent Funds.

#4,000 00
10,000 00

$36,000 00

390 00
150 00
90 00
75 00
900 00
300 00
300 00

$1,000 00

1,000 00

1,000 00

500 00

2,205 00
1,500 00

3,500 00

#43,205 00
The donation of Mr. Bradlee was $1000, and there remains to be invested
as a permanent fund, $500.

In closing this Report, the Committee have the pleasure to state, that dur-
ing the past year, the original Mortgage on their Real Estate, has been re-
duced from Jijleen thousand dollars to ten thousand dollars, and that the
Society will soon receive a sum equal to the last named, viz. : ten thousand
dollars, by the bequest of the late Hon. Theodore Lyman,

Marshall P, Wilder, i „. ^

^ „ > r mance Committee.

Josiah otickney, )

A communication was received from the Executors of the will of the late
Theodore Lyman, asking for the appointment of a committee to receive the
Legacy and discharge the Executors.

Voted, That the Finance Committee, Messrs, M. P. Wilder, J. Stickney,

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

87

and O. Johnson, have full power to adjust the matter witli tlie aforesaid
Executors,

The committee appointed to correspond with the various Horticultural So-
cieties, made tlieir report, which was referred to the Committee of Arrange-
ments,

The Corresponding Secretary read a letter from the Kentucky Horticul-
tural Society, requesting copies of the Transactions of the Society, and the
Secretary was directed to comply with their request.

On motion of C. M. Hovey, it was voted that the Committee of Arrange-
ments be required to appoint the day for holding the Annual Exhibition in
September next, and report at the next meeting.

Adjourned two weeks, to January 26th.

Exhibittd. — Fruits : From D. T. Curtis, Pears — Easter Buerr6, two dishes,
one fine, tlie otlier green and indifferent ; presented for the purpose of show-
ing the results of different modes of ripening. From J. Owen, Apple — from
Vermont ; Rhode Island Greening.

The following is the report of the committee establishing Premimns for
1850, approved by the Executive Conamitte :

LIST OF PREMIUMS FOR 1850.

Amount appropriated, Four Hundred and Fifty Dollars.
PROSPECTIVE PRIZES.
For objects to be originated subsequent to A. D. 1846, and which, after a
trial of five years, shall be deemed equal, or superior, in quality, and other
characteristics, to any now extant.

For the best Seedling Pear, the Society's large Gold Medal, valued at $60 00
" " " " Apple, " " " "

" " " " Hardy Grape, " " '•

'< " " " Plum, the Appleton Gold Medal, .

" " " " Cherry, the Lowell Gold Medal, .

" " " " Strawberry, the Lyman Plate,

" " " " Raspberry, the Bradlee Plate,

" " " " Hardy Rose, the Society's large Gold Medal,

" " " " Camellia Japonica, the Society's large Gold

Medal,

" " ••' " Azalea Indica, the Lowell Gold Medal, .

" " " " Tree Pseonia, the Appleton Gold Medal.

" " " " Herbaceous Pasonia, the Lowell Gold Medal

" " " " Potato, the Society's large Gold Medal, .

PRIZES FOR FRUITS DURING THE SEASON.

For the best and most interesting exhibition of Fruits during the

season, the Lowell plate, valued at . . • • $20 00

For the second best do., . . . • • . 12 00
Apples. — For the best twelve Summer Apples, on or before the last

Saturday in August, . . . • . 6 00

For the next best do., . . . . . 4 00

60

00

60

GO

40

00

40

00

50

00

40

00

60

00

60

00

40

00

40

00

40

00

60

00

88

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

For the best twelve Autumn Apples, on or before the last Satur

day in November,
For the next best do.,
For the best twelve Winter Apples, on or before the last Satur

day in December, .....

For the next best do., .....
Blackberries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes,

For the next best do., .....

Cherries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes, .

For the next best do., .....

Currants. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes,

For the next best do., . . . . .

Figs. — For the best twelve specimens.

For the next best do., .....
Gooseberries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes,

For the next best do., .....

Grapes. — For the best specimens, grown under glass, on or before

the first Saturday in July,

For the next best do..

For the best specimens, grown under glass, subsequently to the

first Saturday in July, .....
For the next best do., .....
For the best specimens of Native Grapes,
For the next best do., .....
MosK Melon. — For the best Musk Melon, in open culture, on or be
fore the last Saturday in September,
For the next best do., raised by open culture, on or before the
last Saturday ia September,
Nectarines. — For the best twelve specimens,

For the next best do.,
Peaches. — For the best twelve specimens, grown under glass, on or
before the second Saturday in July,
For the next best do., ....
For the best twelve specimens, grown in open culture,
For the next best do., ....
Peaks. — For the best collection, not exhibited before this year, with
a written description of the same, the Society's plate, .
For the next best do., .....
For the best twelve Summer Pears, on or before the last Satur

day in August, .
For the next best do..
For the best twelve Autumn Pears, on or before the last Satur

day in November,
For the next best do.,
For the best twelve Winter Pears, on or before the last Satur

day in December,
For the next best do.,
Pldms. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes,
For the next best do., ....

6 00

4

00

6 GO

4

00

5

00

3

00

6 00

4

00

5

00

3

00

5

00

3 00

5

00

3

00

10

00

7

00

10

00

7

00

5

00

3

00

5 00

3 00

6 00

4 00

6 00

4 00

6 00

4 00

15 00

10 00

6 00

4 00

6 00

4 00

10 00

6 00

6 00

3 00

Massachusetts Ho7'ticultural Society.

89

Quinces.— For the best twelve specimens,

For the next best do., .....
Raspberetes. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes,

For the next best do., .....
Strawberries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes,

For the second best do., .....

For the third best do., .....

. $5 00

3 00

5 00

3 00

6 00

4 00

3 00

PRIZES FOR FRUITS.
To he awarded on the first day of the Annual Exhibition in September.
Apples. — For the best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each, the
Society's Plate, valued at ... .

For the second best do., .....

For the third best do., .....

For the best dish of Apples, twelve specimens, of one variety,
For the next best do., .....

Pears. — For the best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each, the
Lyman Plate, valued at ....

For the second best do., . . . . •

For the third best do., .....

For the best dish of Pears, twelve specimens of one variety.
For the next best do., .....

Assorted Fruit. — For the best basket of Fruit, of various kinds,
For the second best do , .....

For the third best do., .....

Grapes. — For the best five varieties, two bunches each, the Lyman
Plate, .......

For the second best five varieties, two bunches each, the Brad
lee Plate, ......

For the best two varieties, two bunches each.

For the second best do., .....

Peaches. — For the best dish, of not less than twelve.

20 00

12 00

8 00

6 00

4 00

20 00

12 00

8 00

6 00

4 00

10 00

7 00

5 00

15 00

10 00

7 00
5 00

8 00

$450 00

[HT^ The Prizes and Gratuities will be awarded on the following days :
For Cherries, forced Grapes, forced Peaches, and Strawberries, on the last

Saturday in July.
For Summer Apples, Blackberries, Currants, Gooseberries, Summer Pears and

Raspberries, on the last Saturday in August.
For Foreign and Native Grapes, Nectarines, Peaches, Plums, and Musk

Melons, on the last Saturday in October.
For Autumn Apples, Figs, Autumn Pears, and Quinces, on the last Saturday

in November.
For Winter Apples, Winter Pears, New Pears, and for the "Exhibition dur-
ing the season," on the last Saturday in December.

ITT^ Competitors for Prizes are particularly referred to the Rules and Regu-
lations, which will be strictly adhered to by the Committee.

VOL. XVI. NO. II. 12

90

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

00
00

00
00

00
00
00
00
00
6 00

PRIZES FOR PLANTS, FLOWERS, AND DESIGNS.

Amount appropriated, Six Hundred and Fifty Dollars.

DISPLAY OF GREENHOUSE PLANTS, IN POTS, THROUGH THE

SEASON.
For the best display of Greenhouse Plants, in pots, through the sea-
son, the Appleton Gold Medal, valued at . . . . $25 00

For the second best display of do., the Society's Silver Gilt Medal,

valued at . . . . . . . . 15 00

DISPLAY OF GREENHOUSE PLANTS, IN POTS.
To be exhibited at the opening of the Hall, on the first Saturday in May :
Pelargoniums. — Class I. — For the best six new and rare varieties,
grown in eight-inch pots, a prize of
For the second best do., .
Class II. — For the best six new and rare varieties, grown in large
pots, a prize of .
For the second best do., .
Roses. — For the best six varieties of Tea, Bourbon, Noisette, or
Bengal, a prize of . . .

For the second best do., .
For the third best do.,
Cut Flowers. — For the best display, a prize of

For the second best do., .
Fuchsias. — For the best six varieties, a prize of

For the second best do., .
Cactus. — For the best six varieties, a prize of

For the second best do..
Calceolarias. — For the best six varieties, a prize of

For the second best do., .
Cineraries. — For the best six varieties, a prize of

For the second best do., .
Heaths. — For the best varieties, a prize of

For the second best do., .
Various Sorts. — For the best display of various sorts of Green
house Plants, not less than twelve pots, a prize of
For the second best display, ....

Hyacinths. — Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in May.
For the best display, not less than twenty varieties,
For the second best do., .....

Tulips. — Prizes to be awarded the third Saturday in May.

For the best thirty distinct varieties, a prize of . . . 8 00

For the second best do., . . . . . . 6 00

For the third best do., . . . . . . 3 00

Pansies. — Prizes to be awarded the fourth Saturday in May.

For the best twelve distinct varieties, a prize of . . . 4 00

For the second best do., . . . . • . 3 00

For the third best do., . . . . . . 2 00

Hawthorns. — Prizes to be awarded the fourth Saturday in May.

For the best display, a prize of . . . . . 3 00

For the second best do., . . . . . . 2 00

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

91

Hakdy AzALEis.— Prizes to be awarded fourth Saturday in May.

For the best display, a prize of .

For the second best do., ......

Shrubby P.eonies.— Prizes to be awarded fourth Saturday in May.

For the best six varieties, a prize of .

For the second best do., ......

For the best display, ......

Herbaceous Peonies. — Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in
June.

For the best twelve flowers, having regard to the number of va
rieties, a prize of . . ...

For the second best do., .....

For the best display, .....

Pinks. — Prizes to be awarded third Saturday in June.

For the best six distinct varieties, a prize of

For the second best do., .....

For the best display, .....

Hardy Roses. — Prizes to be awarded third Saturday in June

Class I.

For the best thirty distinct varieties, a prize of

For the second best do., .

For the third best do.,

For the best display,

Class H.

For the best twelve distinct varieties, a prize of

For the second best do., .

For the third best do.,

Class III.
Hardy Perpetual Eoses. — For the best ten varieties, a prize of

For the second best do., .

For the best display,
Prairie Roses. — For the best display, not less than six varieties, a
prize of .

For the second best do., not less than four do..

For the third best do., not less than four do..
Carnation and Picotee Pinks. — Prizes to be awarded third Satur
day in July.

For the best ten varieties, a prize of . . .

For the second best do., .....

For the best display, .....

Magnolias. — For the best display through the season, a prize of

For the second best do, .
Hardy Rhododendrons. — For the best display of the season,
prize of .

For the second best do., .....

For the third best do., .....
Double Hollyhocks. — Prizes to be awarded third Saturday in July

For the best display, a prize of .

15 00

3 00

5 00

4 00
3 00

5 00
4 00

3 00

4 00
3 00
2 00

00
00
00
00

00
00
00

00
00
00

00
00
00

00
00
00
00
00

00
00
00

5 00

92

Massachusetts Horticultural f^ociety.

For the second best do., .....

For the third best do., .....
Double Balsams.— Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in August

For the best display, a prize of .

For the second best do., .....

For the third best do., .....
Phloxes. — Prizes to be awarded third Saturday in August.

For the best ten distinct varieties, a prize of

For the second best do., .....

For the third best do., .....
German Asteks. — Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in Sep
tember.

For the best display a prize of .

For the second best do., .....

For the third best do., .....

. u m

2

■

00

I.

3

Ofl

2

00

1

00

6

00

4

00

3

-

00

4

00

3

00

2

00

BOUQUETS, WREATHS, DESIGNS, &c.
PRIZES TO BE AWARDED AT THE ANNUAL EXHIBITION.

Vase Bouquets. — For the best pair suitable for the Bradlee Vases, a
prize of the Bradlee Plate, valued at
For the second best do., .
For the best pair for the Society's Marble
For the second best do., .
Parlor Bouquets. — For the best pair suitable
For the second best tlo., .
For the third best do.,
For the fourth best do.,
Pot Plants. — For the best display, of not
Plants, a prize of
For the second best do., .
For the third best do.,
For the fourth best do..
Cockscomb.— For the best six pots, a prize of

For the second best do., .
Balsams.— For the best six pots, a prize of

For the second best do.,
Dahlias.— Prizes to be awarded fourth Saturday in September.

Division A.
Premier Prize. — For the best twelve dissimilar blooms, the So-
ciety's Silver Medal, ......

Specimen Bloom. — For the best flower, ....

Various Colors.— For the best yellow, bufi", or orange; purple or
maroon; crimson or claret; very dark; white; edged or
tipped; scarlet; pink or rose; striped lilac, a prize of $1 00
each, .....•••

Division B. — Class I.
For the best twenty-four dissimilar blooms.
For the second best do., .,...•

10 00

.

6 00

; Vases,

10 00

6 00

e for the parlor,

8 00

6 00

5 00

.

3 00

less than twenty Pot

12 00

. . . ■

10 00

.

8 00

•

5 00

• .

3 00

.

2 00

3 00

2 00

8 00
3 00

12 00

7 00
5 00

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

93

Class II.
For the best eighteen dissimilar blooms, .
For the second best do., .

Class III.
For the best twelve dissimilar blooms,
For the second best do., .
Herbaceous Perennials. — For the best display through the
the Society's Silver Medal.
For the second best do., a prize of
For the third best do.,
Annuals. — For the best display through the season, the Society'
Silver Medal, ....

For the second best display, a prize of .
For the third best do..
Camellias. — Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in February.

For the best twelve varieties of cut flowers, with foliage, a

prize of .
For the second best do., ......

Chinese Primrose. — Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in Feb-
ruary.
For the best six plants, in not less than four varieties, in pots, .
For the second best do. do., .....

Greenhouse Azaleas. — Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in
March.
For the best six varieties in pots, ....

For the second best do. do., .....

Flowering Shrubs. — For the best display, during the season, a
prize of .
For the second best do., ......

For the third best do. do., . . . . •

$537 00

PRIZES AND GRATUITIES TO BE AWARDED AT THE WEEKLY

EXHIBITIONS.
Amount appropriated, One Hundred and Thirteen Dollars, f 113 00
For the best six Pot Plants, of different varieties, a

prize of . . . . • • . $2 00

For the second best do., . . . . . 1 00

For the best large Bouquet for vases or parlor, composed

of flowers gracefully arranged, a prize of . . 1 00

For the best pair of Bouquets, of any description, . 1 00

$650 00
PRIZES FOR VEGETABLES.

Amount Appropriated, One Hundred and Fifty Dollars.
Asparagus.— For the earliest and best, not less than three bunches,

a prize of . . . . • • . 3 00

For the second best do., a prize of . . . . 2 00

f 6 00

4 00

5 00

3 00

5 00

4 00

3 00

5 00

4 00

3 00

8 00

5 00

3 00

2 00

6 00

4 00

5 00

4 00

3 00

94

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Beets. — For the best (pure blood beet,) during the season, not less

than twelve roots, a prize of .
Broccoli. — For the best three heads, a prize of
Beans. — For the best and earliest peck of string beans, a prize of
For the best and earliest Lima Beans, not less than two quarts
a prize of ..... .

For the best and earliest variety of shell beans, a prize of

Horseradish. — Best during the season,

Cabbage. — For the best drumhead cabbage, during the season, not

less than three heads, a prize of . . .

For the second best do., a prize of . . .

For the best Savoy cabbage, during the season, not less than

three heads, a prize of .
For the second best do., a prize of . . .

Carrots. — For the best exhibited, a prize of .
Cauliflowers. — For the best and largest, during the season, not less
than three heads, a prize of .
For the second best do., a prize of . . .

Celery. — For the best and largest blanched, not less than six roots
a prize of ..... .

For the second best do., a prize of . , .

Corn. — For the best and earliest sweet corn, not less than twelve
ears, a prize of .
For the second best do., a prize of . . .

Cucumbers. — For the best pair under glass, previous to the first Sat
urday of June, a prize of ... •

For the second best do., a prize of . . .

For the best and earliest of open culture, a prize of
Egg Plants. — The best display, during the season, a prize of
For the second best do., a prize of . . .

Lettuce. — For the best six heads, before the first Saturday in July
a prize of ..... .

For the second best do., a prize of . . .

Potatoes. — For the best new seedling, of superior quality, for the
table, a prize of .
For the best and earliest peck, previous to August 1, a prize of
For the second best do., a prize of . . .

Peas — For the best and earliest peck in June, a prize of
Khubarb. — For the largest and best, previous to the first Saturday
in July, not less than twelve stalks, a prize of
For the second best do., a prize of . . .

Squashes. — For the best pure Canada squashes, not less than six in
number, a prize of .... .

For the greatest variety exhibited, during the season, a prize of

Tomatoes. — For the best and earliest, not less than one dozen.

Vegetables. — For the best display and greatest variety at the weekly

exhibitions, during the season, a prize of

For the second best do., a prize of . . .

$3 00
5 00
3 00

3 00
3 00
3 00

5 00
3 00

3 00
2 00
2 00

10 00
3 00

2 00

3 00

5 00
3 00

Horticultural Operations for February. 95

For the best display and greatest variety at the annual exhibi-
tion, a prize of . . . . . . . $10 00

For the second best do., a prize of . . . . 6 00

For any new variety of vegetables suitable for the table, and

worthy of cultivation, other than seedling potatoes, a prize of 5 00

$150 00
The Regulations are nearly the same as heretofore. (See Vol. XIV, p. 130.)

HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS,

FOR FEBRUARY.

FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines iii tlie greenhouse and early vinery will now begin to swell
their buds, and by tlie end of tlie month will be well advanced : syringing
should therefore be kept up two or tliree times a day, in fine weather, until
all the eyes are nearly broken ; if there is any tendency of the vines to push
only at the ends, the shoots should be bent down, or turned horizontally,
which will generally make them push evenly. They need not be tied up to
the trellis firmly till the eyes have advanced half an inch or more. Give abun-
dance of air in good weather, and do not attempt to force the growth : the
old adage of " haste makes waste," holds true in regard to grape growing,
if in nothing else. Vines in pots may now be brought into the house for a
succession. Cuttings may now be put in, placing tliem in pots in a little
bottom heat. Vines in the open air may be pruned the last of tlie month.

Fig Trees, in pots, will now begin to break, and will need occasional
syringing.

Peach Trees, in pots may be brought in for a succession, and those already
advanced, should be carefully attended to as soon as they come into bloom.

Strawberries in pots, should be kept on a shelf near the glass, where there
is an abundance of air and light : water liberally. Now is a good time to
sow seeds for producing new varieties.

Root Grafting may be commenced now, if the stocks have been taken
up and laid in as we directed last fall.

Pruning Orchards may be commenced now, choosing good weather
for the labor : by beginning now much valuable time is saved, which will
be wanted when the season is more advanced.

Scions of fruit trees may still be cut. Preserve them by inserting their
ends in a box of earth, in a cool cellar.

FLOWER department.

Camellias will still be in full bloom, and will require liberal supplies of
water, and occasional syringing. Keep the plants clear of yellow leaves,
and wash them carefully if they become dusty. Inarching and grafting

96 Horticultural Operations for Fehruary.

should be done before tlae plants begin to gi-ow : cuttings struck last autumn
should now be potted off: continue to impregnate the flowers, if seeds are
wanted.

Pelargoniums, will now come forward more rapidly ; such as need it
should now have a final shift into their flowering pots, and have tlie shoots
tied out to neat stakes. Plants not wanted for flowering before May, should
now be topped, in order to make them compact and bushy specimens : water
rather more liberally than last montli. Give an abundance of air, and do
not crowd the plants.

Japan Lilies will now require to be repotted — put them in a light soil,
and do not water much until the shoots have advanced three or four inches.

Stephanotus Floribundus, should now be repotted, and tlie shoots tied
up neatly to a balloon trellis : place the plant in a good bottom heat to give
it a good start.

Fuchsias should now be repotted, watered, and started into growth if they
are wanted for blooming in May. Cuttings should be put in now.

Azaleas Avill soon begin to flower, and will require to be watered ratlier
more liberally.

Cactuses will begin to grow, and will need more water.

Carnation and Picotee seeds may now be planted. Old plants in
frames should be aired in good weather.

Hydrangea Japonica should now be shifted and brought into the
house. Cuttings may be put in now.

Salvias of the various kinds should be propagated now, for a summer
stock for bedding out.

Achimenes should be potted off", and more bulbs started for a successional
bloom.

Ranunculuses should be planted this montli, in the open ground, and be
protected with frames.

Begonias should now be propagated from cuttings.

Verbenas raised from cuttings late in tlie season should now be potted
off. Seeds may be sown now.

Amaryllises may now be potted.

Dahlias for early flowering should now be potted, and if young plants
are wanted, the cuttings should be put in. Seeds for raising new sorts should
be planted now.

Ten Week Stocks, Phlox Drummondii, and other tender annual seeds,
should now be planted in fi-ames or boxes.

Roses will now begin to flower, and will need liberal supplies of water,
and repeated syringing over the foliage : water occasionally with liquid
guano, and fumigate often to destroy the aphis.

ScHizANTHusES should now have a final shift into large pots.

Veronica Speciosa should now be repotted, and cuttings put in for a
young stock.

Heaths should be liberally watered, and freely syringed : cuttings may
now be successfully put in.

Plants in Frames, should be well aired in all good weather.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTURE-

MARCH, 1850.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. Notice of some Plants of Lyniifieldj Dmivers,
Manchestei', 4*c., ^c, Essex County, Massachusetts. By
John Lewis Russell, Professor of Botany and Vegetable
Physiology to Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

The twenty-fourth of July, 1849, was a bright, sunny
day, with an atmosphere rendered delightfully refreshing by
a fine southwestern breeze. By previous arrangement, a
number of amateurs and lovers of natural history, set out
from the goodly city of Salem, provided with such apparatus
as best subserved the purposes of the different tastes that
might be found in a mixed company. Of these, were disci-
ples skilled in that gentle craft, which the simple-hearted
Izaak Walton has immortalized, bent on liuing the finny
tribe from their watery haunts ; and others, with cork, box,
and net, to capture insects, from the vile bug, to the gor-
geous butterfly ; while others still, were ready for never so
rough a scramble through fen and moor, and over crag and
rock, in quest, now of some little plant, and then, as the case
might be, of some wide extended prospect, which was to be
gained by exertion of muscle and by dint of patience.

The scene of this second exploration of the season, under
the auspices of the Essex Institute, of whose previous labors
in the field, you may find an account, if you will, reader, on
the 289-295 pages of the volume for the last year, was laid
out in the vicinity of the hospitable mansion of the Hon,

VOL. XVI. NO. III. 13

98 Notice of some Plants of Lynnfield, Danvers,

Asa T. Newhall, in Lynnfield, who generously offered his
premises as a rendezvous. It was in front of this old-fash-
ioned farm-house, surrounded as it is with a luxuriant
growth of the yellow locust, that we were met by a few in-
vited scientific friends from Boston, who were bent on an in-
vestigation of the several geological and mineral features of
the region. There were ledges of serpentine, bowlders of
sienites, and many diversified characters of a peculiarly wild
region, beside. Of them I may speak more at length in the
course of my present remarks.

It would be doing injustice to the well-deserved fame of
our host, were I to omit further notice of the extraordinary
vigor and thriftiness perceptible in the copses and belts of
the yellow locust trees, to which I have just now alluded.
On approaching the homestead, (a fine specimen, in its way,
of the old and long cultivated farms of Essex county,) you
enter, as it were, an avenue of half a mile or more, of these
valuable trees, formed by the judicious permission and even
encouragement of their growth near the stone- walls, on each
side of the public road. The well known tendency of the
tree (Robim« Pseudacacia L.) to throw up from its roots
numerous suckers, causes it to be very valuable in covering
such portions of the soil as could not be usefully cultivated
with any thing else. When needed, as in the present in-
stance, for ornament as well as for comfort, shade and use,
these suckers may be destroyed in such a manner as to allow
a row of standard trees to grow into the requisite size and
proportion. As I traversed this almost natural avenue, I
easily fancied the exquisite loveliness which it must present
in the flowery month of June, when laden with its myriad
racemes of snowy white blossoms, all redolent with a per-
fume alike grateful to the industrious bees and to man. In a
small enclosure, on these same premises, I was shown a thick
copse of the same trees, that were left to perform their own
pruning, and which had accommodated themselves to a very
unpropitious looking mass of rocks ; an area, without such
aid, that would have produced little else than worthless
brambles or unsightly weeds. The trunk of a very large

Manchester, Sfc, Essex County, Massachusetts. 99

specimen of the yellow locust was lying near by ; the rem-
nant of a magnificent individual tree, whose removal by the
axe, dire necessity compelled, after it had sheltered many a
rood of ground, for many a year.

The yellow locust, as it may be well known to every one
conversant with the habits of destructive insects, has been a
difficult subject of cultivation, on account of the ravages
committed upon its young and rapidly growing condition by
that beautiful coleopterous insect the Clytus pictus. Va-
rious remedies have been suggested ; of these, the following,
by some person of observation, who found that those trees
which were shaded from the direct rays of the sun, gener-
ally escaped. It may be the part of wisdom to allow the
Robim'a pseudacacia to grow up naturally, as thick as it will,
over lands especially appropriated to its culture ; and the
casual notice of the fact assumed in the suggested remedy,
may suggest some valuable hint, in raising this beautiful
and highly useful forest tree, of which it is now rare to meet
with specimens of natural size, and of any considerable age.
Judging from the vigor of the trees on Mr. Newhall's prem-
ises, it is to be presumed that some accidental or natural
condition has proved advantageous.

While on the point of setting out for a botanical ramble,
with a number of our party, several of whom composed our
corps in the first exploration, we found that old and familiar
plant of healing virtues, naturalizing itself on the summit of
a high rock, and seeming as much at home in its artificially
arranged habitat, as if it were really a part and parcel of the
company of Cryptogamic plants which were luxuriating
around it. It was, however, none other than a vigorous
patch of the homely houseleek, Sempervivum iictorum,
which, according to Linnasus, is used in Smoland as a pre-
servative to the coverings of the houses ; to which end it
may be easily made to serve, by sticking its offsets into a
little earth or cow-dung ; and from each parent plant, its nu-
merous offspring spread over the entire surface, whether it
be of tile, wood, or thatch. I had previously seen the same
vivacious plant honored with like care by many painstaking

100 Notice of some Plants of Lynnfield, Daiivers,

matrons, who, skilled in the plainer pharmacopcEia of the
herb and simples, employed its soothing jnices in allaying
burns, and in mitigating the acrid humors of ulcers. It was
a pleasing memento of those ruder days, when the kitchen
garden was the unfailing source of all manner of healing
plants fit for the curing of the ails of the body ; aye, and of
the mind and the heart too, forsooth ; for accidents and in-
juries beyond the skill of the village leech. Now, whether
its magic virtues in its humble sphere, have been superseded
by some other plant of more foreign growth, or have ceased
altogether, doth not appear to me a clear and precise point ;
suffice it, it has almost become to be among the things
which were.

The extreme dryness of the season was soon perceived, as
we struck into the woods, or ranged among the high rocks,
or skii'ted beneath the impending cliffs, the noted resort of
the much dreaded rattlesnake, {Crotalus durissus Kalm,)
whose presence was not discovered by any of us, notwith-
standing our intrusion, under a sun of noontide splendor, and
when its reptile vigor might be supposed to be the most ac-
tive. The herborizing among the phanogamous plants was,
as might be supposed, a precarious occupation ; and it was
only by seeking the low, swampy spots, or else the margins
of the ditches and streams, that we could meet with the
usual flowers of the season. Nothing of particular interest
was observed in this line of research ; and, with the solitary
exception of a small sphagnous spot, which produced a few
beautiful species, we were obliged to content ourselves with
the common shrubs, which were passing out of bloom, and
with scanning the surfaces and sides of the rocks, on which
the hardier forms of vegetable life were to be found, defying
by their peculiar habits, the solstitial heats and the winter's
cold alike. It was in such a little sunken spot, where usu-
ally it would have been impracticable to have walked dry-
shod, that the Dro'sera longifolia (long-leaved Sun-dew,)
was growing in abundance : its spatulate foliage sparkling
in the light, with its viscous secretion exuding from the
many glands which invested it, and contrasting splendidly

Manchester^ Sfc.^ Essex County^ Massachusetts. 101

with the long stems laden with golden blossoms of the
Utricul^aria vulgaris^ (the common or Greater Bladder-
wort.) In the soft, black and oozy mud, and where usually
there might have been several feet of water in the excava-
tions made by cuttings for peat, and now almost dry, were
the beautiful flowers of the NYMPHiE^A odorata, that Q,ueen
of our northern waters, lying sadly prostrate, or scarcely ele-
vated on short stems j and although in such an unusual con-
dition, yet expanding its snowy petals, as if a nymph of the
lake had been transformed by some potent spell into a den-
izen of some more terraqueous site !

From the general health of the plant, I thought that we
might gather a valuable hint, to try the culture of the Nym-
phasa under circumstances where even a scanty supply of
water is available ; and certainly, if the same pains were
taken in this way, that is bestowed on far less worthy ob-
jects, considerable success might be reasonably anticipated.
An aquarium in some of our greenhouses, that could be sup-
plied with CocHiTUATE, might afford a crop of pond-lilies of
as dainty rarity when out of season, as is many a camellia ;
and this all the more to be surmised, after having seen the
pretty little NymphcBa ccerulea so carefully nursed in shallow
pans, in the warmer parts of the conservatory.

There are some improvable qualities connected with our
native Nymph^^a which should not be overlooked. I mean
its increasing in size of foliage and flowers, when under fa-
vorable circumstances. Some roots which have been for
several years planted in a small artificial pond in the garden
of E. Hersey Derby, Esq., of Salem, produce extraordinary
large blossoms and continue to flower for several weeks later
than when growing wild. The beautiful variety, with
roseate petals, cultivated at the Botanic Garden, Cambridge,
may be familiar to many of our readers ; and it would be
pleasant to see the Nymph^'^a a'lba of Great Britain, so
closely allied to our own in our streams and ponds, intro-
duced, of which no instance has ever occurred to my knowl-
edge.

As we ascended the higher points of land and scaled the

102 Notice of some Plants of Lynnfield, Danvers,

rocks, several interesting Lichenes met my eye. Among
these, I detected what I have but little hesitation in pro-
nouncing Lec'idea decolorans Acharius ; or, now known as
BiAT^ORA decolorans Fries, This singular lichen had all
the air of some Alpine production, with its apothecia of fus-
cous hue when dry, but of a red color when moistened. In
this immediate neighborhood I had found Parintlia detonsa
Fries's Syst : Orh : Veg : p. 284, so metamorphosed by
struggling for growth on the surface of the bare rocks lately
denuded of trees, and thus deprived of its favorite shade,
that I was for some time doubtful of its identity. The
smaller stones and fragments of rocks lying scattered about
in confusion, were covered with Collema nigresceiis Ach :
and where any crevices alloAved, the Polypodiiim vulgare
intermixed with Bartrmnm pomiformis, and several species
of Sticta was to be seen fringing the outlines of crags with
a feathery contour. The Umbilicari^ of several species,
gave characteristic shagginess to gigantic bowlders, of which
Umhil: DelUnii Tuckerm. Synopsis Northern Lich. was
to be frequently seen of extraordinary dimensions, and Um-
hil : Muhlenbergii, so useful as an article of food to the No-
madic tribes of our Indians, in close proximity to Umhil:
pustulata.

Not far from this range of high, wooded precipices, in
company with my friend Dr. Andrew Nichols, long known
as a careful and accurate observer, I once found a small clus-
ter of very fine and fertile specimens of Cladonia gracilis^
variety elongata, near the summit of an elevation, which the
coast survey had selected for the site of one of its signal-
staffs. From the top of this rock, lying within the limits of
Danvers, the scenery was of an unsurpassed kind. Before
us lay the ocean and several mimic lakes, the distant Blue
Hills of Milton, and the shadowy outlines of farther off
mountains in New Hampshire ; the still and quiet inlets of
the sea, and bold promontories which stretched out into its
bosom, the numerous emerald-like islands of the bay, the
tall lighthouses of the coast, the wave-beaten and rocky
shores of Lynn, and the narrow belt of sandy barrier, which

Manchester, S^c, Essex County, Massachusetts. 203

marked the beaches of Nahant and Chelsea. In the back
ground of this fine picture, stood a dark forest of the Red
Cedar and like hardy trees, whose stiff and straight forms rose
on the edges of rock and of confused strata of the ragged
hills of Saugus and Lynnfield.

The natural features of this neighborhood are certainly
worthy of more attention than they seem to obtain. So di-
versified a range of strikingly beautiful objects seem scarcely
possible to be thus grouped. Considering the materiel which
the geological aspect of this section of our State furnishes
from the numerous high points on the steep hills in the vi-
cinity of Salem, it may be confidently asserted, that this
portion of Essex county can offer no mean field of interest
to the lover of Nature. A more faithful exploration, and a
wider range, with ample time for patient research, may bring
to light many more interesting forms of those lower plants,
of which the subalpine character of the region promises a
valuable harvest, and which are less dependent on the season or
on atmospherical conditions, in presenting themselves in some
pleasing relations to those, who study their habits or their
structure. To the like careful investigations of Oakes, the
lichenologist is already indebted for some of the rarer species,
which, though humble in their guise, yet may be considered
a fortunate acquisition by any botanist. On the broad and
flat platforms of the tops of many of these hills, where a
thin soil has been gained by the slow disintegration of the
looser fragments, lying wasted away to mere stones often-
times, may be found large flakes and dense masses, several
feet in circumference, and of proportionate altitude of stalks,
{jpodetia), the Stereocaulon paschale, a common, yet ever ad-
mired species, which, when growing in barren fields on the
plains, is merely a recumbent plant, struggling for existence
among the cladonias which overtop it.

Returning from the several strolls which each party as-
sumed for itself, according to tastes or inclination, the com-
pany were invited by pressing calls of appetite, to partake of
such viands as prudent foresight had furnished, repairing to
one of the little groves of the yellow locusts, already alluded

104 Notice of some Plants of Lynnfield, Danvers,

to, and after having qiiaifed ad lihitimi of some delicious wa-
ter from a contiguous spring. These sterner wants being
duly regarded, the entire party adjourned to the ample sit-
ting room of mine host, where various subjects pertaining to
the adventures of the day were discussed in an instructive
and suggestive manner. On our return towards Salem, after
an hour or two thus spent together, several of our friends
proceeded to visit a very large bowlder of much interest, fa-
miliarly known as Ship Rock, lying at a very considerable
height in the rear of the house of David Newhall, on the
Lynnfield Road, and about a mile distant from Tapley's
Brook. It is estimated that this huge fragment weighs about
eleven hundred tons ; and yet, from the scratches and fur-
rows beneath it, and from the grooves made upon the rock
itself on which it lies, resting upon its apex, it is conjectured
that it must have been an erratic. Other bowlders, that are
estimated to weigh from fifty to seventy-five tons, are scat-
tered around in the area ; while this rears itself above them
all in massive solidity and grandeur. From the top of this
pebble stone, of twenty-two feet altitude, and standing
as it does, on the brow of a considerable ascent, the view is
one of much beauty, showing beneath your eye the thriving
town of Danvers, stretching out in many a village, marked
by its white spires, and Salem and its pleasant harbor, and its
wooded shores. To rescue this noble specimen of some for-
mer mighty cataclysm, from any contingency of being broken
up and quarried, the Essex Institute made itself possessor of
it by purchase ; and to give facility to its inspection, a safe
and light apparatus of iron was attached, by which the top
can be easily reached.

Having, some years previous, collected specimens of Dra-
ba verna on a spot not far from this place, through the atten-
tion of my friend. Dr. Nichols, the original discoverer of this
habitat of this very small and very early flower, I directed my
steps thither in quest of Bartr'amia fontana, which also occurs
in the same locality. My companions, as well as myself,
found some difficulty in detecting it, so perfectly desiccated
was the entire surface of the ground over which, in early

Manchester, &j*c., Essex County, Massachusetts. 105

spring, flows such an abundance of water as afi'ords sufficient
moisture and nutriment to many species of mosses, which
then delight themselves in their fresher foliage, or else in
the developed fruit-stalks. A locality so narrow in area, like
this, is another instance, among many of the secluded and
almost solitary habits of particular plants. Attempts to
transplant the Draba to similar spots near by, have been
made by Dr. Nichols, but I believe, with no permanent suc-
cess.

By this time, the setting sun and the fatigue of the day,
reminded us of a return home, each pleased with our adven-
tures and exploits. To gain as many objects as possible, to
collect as many species of plants, or kind of specimens as
could have been gathered together, you are to understand,
reader, was not our object ; the rather to inspect for ourselves,
the features and products of that section of the county in
which we are residing.

The third, and last exploration for the season, was made
on Tuesday, the twenty-eighth of August, 1849. It was the
purpose of the party to go over some of the botanical
grounds so often visited by Mr. Oakes. From want of pre-
cise knowledge of his favorite localities, and with no guide,
as in the first instance, to lead us to the most favorable spots ;
added to these, the continued drought, this expedition was
not so profitable as the preceding. Very few plants were
detected, and those most conspicuous were seen on the bor-
ders of the road in Hamilton, Essex and Manchester, of
which, the tall cylindrical spikes of Sanguisorba canadensis,
and the rich golden flowers of Bldens chrysanthemoides,
in moist places in fields, were particularly remarkable. To
some of the party, the lovely Rhexia virg'inica proved a
novelty, while some rosy flowers of the Polygonum sagit-
tatum, which, stretching itself over the tops of the other
plants that were growing on the edge of a little stream,
mingled well with the slender white spikes of the water
pepper, (Polyg : hydi'opiper L.), the splendid flowers of the

VOL. XVI. NO. III. 14

106 Notice of some Plants of Lyimfield, Danvers, (S)^c.

Cardinal {Lobelia cardinalis) and its lowly, humble neigh-
bor, the purple headed Poly gala sangumea L.

This region is favorable in its dry wooded and rocky as-
pects for the occurrence of the elegant Linn^^a borealis, for
several species of Pyrola, Goodyera, and similar plants.
Some of the usual lichenes and musci, I observed, and
Arctostaphylos (Arb^utus) U^va ursi was gathered at random
with others.

As we approached the sea-coast, and entered the farm of
BuRLEY Smith, Esq., in Manchester, we found several
friends, who joined us at a later hour, anticipating our arrival,
to unite in the afternoon session after the usual repast. Here
I found the rocks in the immediate contiguity of the sea,
conspicuously radiant with the various lichens, which dare
to grow just above high water mark, of which, I particularly
noticed Parmelia murdrum, P. saxicola and P. oreina, while
the unpainted buildings, such as barns, and the stone walls,
were brightened with P. parietina, in several forms. In the
loose and heated sand, affording an almost tropical soil, so
far as warmth was concerned, were large specimens of that
generally diffused and perfectly naturalized East Indian An-
nual, whose lurid blossoms and fetid leaves render it as well
known as do its deleterious seeds, or its spring fruit, the Da-
tura stramonium, variety Tatula. On the wet sands, and
stranded by the receding tide, lay the singular and nearly
transparent bodies of many MEDusiE, the structure of which
served to interest us, when it was exhibited by the aid of
powerful microscopes. With the assistance of two of these
instruments in the hands of those skilled in their use, several
details, both in vegetable and animal anatomy, were made to
serve for the pleasure of the afternoon. A few curious spe-
cies of Algas were collected, some smaller kinds of mari-
time insects, and the many etcetera, which never come amiss
to those to whom they are not trifles.

The route we pursued was a pleasant one in its diversified
scenes of bare and rolling hills of diluvium, of wooded
swamps, through which the travelled road often lay, of moss-
covered rocks, over and among which it anon, winded, the

North American Pomological Convention. 107

glimpses of the distant ocean, and the bright little town of
Essex, between iis and the long line of beach glittering in
the sun ; the comfortable homes of the old settlers, nestling
in some cozy nook, and looking as demure as if they were
of no especial consideration ; yet showing by their weather-
beaten exteriors, that many a rude blast and winter storm
might attest to the security, Avhich they had, nevertheless,
rendered. The air of solid comfort, which most of them
exhibited would, however, have been much enhanced by the
cultivation of a little of the ornamental. Notwithstanding
an increasing attention is evidently paid to the exterior pro-
prieties of our country houses, such as the flower bed and
the fruit garden, the shrubbery and the shade tree, yet there
remains much to be done in this way. There seems to
be no reason why every New England village should not
compare favorably with some of those prettier hamlets of
Old England, about which we read, when a similar taste
for what always renders home, however homely it may be,
more pleasant to its inmates, and more conducive to refine-
ment of manners and excellence of life shall more widely
obtain. To effects proceeding from all our institutions
for the promotion of the study of natural history and
of horticulture, we must look ; and by every proper and
available encouragement, enable them to be foremost among
the educators of the people ; so that our natural advantages,
so profusely scattered around us, even in these barren hills and
waste-like plains, may be employed for the noblest and wisest
purposes of social industry and its best results.

Hi?igham, January, 1850.

Art. II. The North American Pomological Convention, at
Syracuse, N. Y. By the Editor.

The second session of this convention, as we have already
announced, came together at Syracuse, on the 14th of Sep-
tember last, the day after the New York State Fair. Up-

lOS North American Pomological Convention.

wards of seventy-five delegates were present from several
States, and the meeting was one of much interest to all.
Owing, however, to the scanty crop of fruit throughout the
middle, western and eastern states, the number presented
before the convention was very small, compared with the
previous year, and the specimens generally inferior. In con-
sequence of this, the lateness of the week, (Friday,) and the
desire of many members to get home, after having attended
at the Fair, in a dense crowd, during the four preceding
days, the convention decided to close up its doings on the
evening of that day, if possible to do so.

The meeting was called tegether at an early hour, and
after the election of officers and business committees, imme-
diately proceeded to take up the fruits for discussion. For
this purpose, a committee of three was chosen, to bring for-
ward such fruits as had not been passed upon the preceding
year, reporting their qualities, whether first, second or third
rate, — according to their opinion of the respective kinds.
We take them in order, as reported :

PLUMS.

Smith's Orleans. — [A misnomer — should be Cooper's,
Ed.] First rate, — and passed, as reported by the committee.

Duane's Purple. — Second rate. Some gentlemen thought
it ranked high for size and beauty — but no more than second
rate.

Lawrence's Favorite. — First rate. Gentlemen from the
West had not sufficiently tested it to form an opinion.

Long Scarlet. — Second rate ; but handsome and fine for
cooking.

Lucombe's Nonsuch. — Nearly first rate. D. Thomas,
thought it only second rate. Mr. C. M. Hovey, thought it fully
as good as the Cooper's, and Mr. Saul said he considered it a
first rate eating fruit — but only a moderate bearer.

PEARS.

Belle Lucrative. — First rate.

DucHESsE or Angouleme. — Second rate. A long discussion
took place on the merits of this pear. Messrs. Coppock, C. M.

North American Pomological Convention. 109

Hovey, Hodge and Dougal, objected to its being classed as
second rate. Mr. Barry thought it a magnificent fruit — but
that it could not clearly be called first rate. A gentleman of
Lockport, once told him that he thought nothing in the
world so fine as this pear on the quince stock. Several gen-
tlemen stated, in answer to a question, whether this variety
Avas fine on the pear, that it produced good fmit on that
stock.

Gansell's Bergamot. — First rate. Mr. Hodge stated
that he had received it from Canada West, under the name of
Dickson pear, and that it^was also cultivated in some places,
as the Dixon. It was generally conceded to be a first rate
variety, but a shy bearer, and the tree a slow grower.

Napoleon. — Good second rate. A desirable pear, in large
collections.

St. Ghislain. — By two of the committee as first, and by
one as second, rate. Mr. Barry said it was quite as good as
the Seckel, or any other pear. Mr. C. M. Hovey, Dr. Wen-
dell and D. Thomas, pronounced it first rate. Mr. C. Down-
ing never saw a first rate one in his life, and Mr. Saul stated
that he had never found it so. Probably the locality of
Newburgh does not suit it.

BuFFUM. — First rate by one of the committee, second rate
by the other two. Mr. Barry thought it much like the
White Doyenne. All agreed that it was a fine growing tree,
and a good bearer.

Long Green. — Second rate. Mr. Hovey remarked, that
this should not be confounded with the Long Green of Au-
tumn, which was often received for it from France.

Julienne. — Second rate. Mr. J. J. Thomas thought it
ought to be rejected for general cultivation. It was, how-
ever, generally conceded, to be a second rate fruit, and if
gathered in season, and ripened in the house, often nearly
first rate.

Frederick of Wurtemberg. — Second rate. A variable
sort not to be depended upon — often are the most beauti-
ful of all pears, and in that condition, of first rate quality.
Mr. Hovey remarked, that it required high cultivation, and

110 North Amej'ican Pomoloffical Convention

to '

that all the small specimens should be picked, when half
grown ; those remainining would then be good.

Fulton. — First rate, by two of the committee, second
rate, by one. Messrs. Barry and Hovey considered it a fine
pear.

Passe Colmar. — Second rate, Mr. C. M. Hovey was sur-
prised at the report of the committee. He thought, if there
was any pear entitled to be considered as first rate, it Avas the
Passe Colmar. The prejudice against it was on account of
its not being well grown and properly ripened. Mr. Saul
classed it among the variable kinds,

Beurre' Diel. — Nearly always first rate. Grows well on
the quince. Mr. J. W. P. Allen, considered it second rate
on young trees, and first rate on old ones,

Beurre' D'Amanlis. — Second rate. Messrs, Barry and
Hovey thought it often first rate, but not always so ; its pro-
ductiveness, however, made it a valuable pear for general
cultivation,

Dix. — First rate, Messrs. Coppock, Hodge and others,
knew but little about it, as it had not fruited much in
Western New York. A specimen prematurely ripened, from
Mr, F, R, Elliott, of Cleaveland, Ohio, was tasted, which
was excellent.

Easter Beurre', — Second rate. The president remarked,
that it bore well at the west, and the fruit very fine. Mr,
C, M. Hovey could not allow the opinion of the committee
to pass, without having his own recorded — that it was not a
second, but a first rate pear, and not only first rate, but the
best winter pear we had yet known. He had no doubt, but
when cultivators knew how to ripen the fruit, it would be
justly estimated as one of the finest late winter kinds in cul-
tivation. Mr. Hodge had not succeeded in ripening the fruit,
it was frequently gritty.

Bleeker's Meadow. — Second rate. Mr. J. J. Thomas,
thought it only ffth rate. Very productive, but considered
by Messrs. Barry, Hovey, Allen and others, as hardly second
rate.

North Amei'ican Pomological Convention. Ill

Beurre' Bosc. — First rate. Mr. Hovey remarked, that it
did not grow well on the quince, unless double grafted.

APPLES.

RoxBURY Russet. — First rate. No remarks were made up-
on this apple.

Hawthorndean. — First rate for cooking — second quality,
productive and handsome. Messrs. Dougal, Barry and Ho-
vey, thought its beauty, productiveness, early bearing, and
good qualities as an early cooking apple, made it a variety
well worthy of general cultivation.

Maiden's Blush. — Second rate, very beautiful, and a good
bearer. Resembles the Hawthorndean, and has heretofore
been confounded with it. It is, however, quite distinct.

Autumn Swaar. — Presented for information. Mr. Good-
sell said it was a handsome, second rate fruit.

Rambo. — The president said it was the fall and early win-
ter apple of Illinois, and Mr. Bateham, that it was more es-
teemed in Ohio than any other variety.

Rawle's Janet. — Much praised in Illinois, where, from
its late blooming, it escapes spring frosts : a constant and
good bearer, and excellent keeper. Mr. Bryam stated, that it
was one of the standard fruits of Kentucky, and they had to
make up their store of fruits from this alone, in consequence
of the injuries by frost to other varieties. It was very pro-
ductive, bearing generally every year : he had kept speci-
mens till August.

seedlings.

The committee on seedlings, made a report upon those
varieties, which they had time to examine, and the following
are the sorts which appear to possess merit : —

APPLES.

Fink's Seedling. — Of the Report of the Ohio Fruit
Convention. Specimens presented of 1848 and 1849 : second
rate in flavor ; and, from examination of specimens present,
valuable only for remaining juicy, and keeping remarkably.

Summer Russet. — From Parsons & Co. Size below medi-

112 North American Pomological Convention.

um : Form, roundish conical : color, yellow, partly russetted.
A pleasant, rather sweet, and of a moderately rich, spicy fla-
vor ; worthy the attention of Pomologists.

PLUMS.

Dorr's Seedling. — From Albany. A very productive
new sort ; the specimens very imperfect, but the committee
were favorably impressed with its value.

Col. Young's Seedling Egg. — An improvement in flavor
on the White Magnum Bonum ; smaller in size. The com-
mittee could only commend it for further examination.

Madison. — Size, rather below medium : yellowish green :
broadly blotched with reddish brown ; rich, sweet, and excel-
lent. Well worthy of public notice.

PEARS.

Hegerman. — From Flushing, L. I. Closely resembling
the Buffiim in appearance, and flavor, if not identical.

Mr. Elliott, the Secretary, closes this part of the proceed-
ings with a description of a new seedling pear, forwarded by
Prof. J. P. Kirtland, of Cleaveland, Ohio. It was accompa-
nied with a painting of the fruit, a copy of which, neatly
lithographed and colored, accompanies the Tratisactions, and
adds much to its value and appearance. We copy the de-
scription : —

" Kirtland. Synonymes : Seedling Seckel, Kirtland's
Seedling. — Size, medium : the circumference, six and a half
inches : length, including stem, two and a half : form, globu-
lar ovate : exterior color, rich crimson russet, varying to a
dull green : texture fine, melting, juicy and rich : color of
flesh, white : flavor, aromatic, sweet, and in the highest de-
gree delicious : seeds, usually full, short and blackish :
stem, six-eighths of an inch in length, thick, and somewhat
curved : eye, small, moderately deep, with the segments of
the calyx short, reflexed and persistent : season, September :
color of wood and growth : the wood is of the same color
as the fruit, and the general habit of the tree resembles a
thrifty, White Doyenne.

North American Pomological Convention. 113

Remarks. — In the close of the year 1810, I furnished
my brother, H. T. Kirtland, with a few seeds of the Seckel
Pear, grown in the State of Connecticut. From these, he
raised several trees on his farm, in Poland, Mahoning County,
Ohio, one of which, he gave me in the year 1825, and which,
produced the fruit exhibited at the New York State Fair, last
autumn, at Buffalo, and noticed in Vol. VIII. pages 108 and
109, of Transactions of the New York State Agricultural So-
ciety. It is no novelty in Mahoning County, Ohio, but is well
known by every cultivator of fruit, and is esteemed as
one of the finest varieties. In hardiness and productiveness
it far excels the parent Seckel, and in point of flavor, is es-
teemed as superior by many people.

The name attached to it, has designated it for years, and
was applied by the public as a compliment to the originator
of the seedling, Henry T. Kirtland.

The remainder of the proceedings, making upwards of
forty-six pages, is filled with interesting reports from com-
mittees from the following States : — Illinois, by Dr. J. A,
Kennicoit ; New York, by Dr. H. Wendell ; also by W. R,
Coppock, for the western part of the State ; Ohio, by F. R.
Elliott ; Wisconsin, by F. R. Phoenix ; Michigan, by Dr. J,
C. Holmes ; Vermont, by C. Goodrich. These reports, par-
ticularly those from Dr. Kennicott and Dr. Wendell, are
long, and contain much information of a general, as well as
local character, and we shall, from time to time, notice them
as we may have space to do so. Mr. Elliott describes and
figures a seedling Morello cherry, originated by Prof. Kirtland
some twenty years since, called the Shannon. With such
reports spread before the public, the convention may well
claim the thanks of all pomologists and fruit cultivators. If
no other results than these shall be realized from similar con-
ventions, their annual or biennial meeting will be of great
value and importance to the advancement of horticultural
science throughout the country.

VOL. XVI. NO. III. 15

114 Pruning the Gooseberry.

Art. III. Pruning the Gooseberry. By Mr. Robert
Thompson, Superintendent of the Orchard and Kitchen
Garden Department of the London Horticultural Society.
With Remarks. By the Editor.

In Great Britain the gooseberry is one of the most impor-
tant of the smaller fruits, and its cultivation has been carried
to a high state of perfection. From the small and austere
wild fruit, no larger than that which we find in our own
pastures, and on the borders of neglected fields, have been
raised the large and superior sorts which occupy so prominent
a place in the gardens of the poor and the wealthy, — the
peasant and the prince, throughout Great Britain. To show
how much attention has been given to this fruit it is only
necessary to state, that nearly one thousand varieties are
enumerated in Lindley's Guide to the Orchard, (1830,) up-
wards of two hundred of which, possessed nearly equal merit,
and varied in weight from fourteen to twenty-five penny-
weights each ; and since then improvement has been carried
so far, that the heaviest berries have reached the weight of
thirty-three pennyweights each !

In our gardens the Gooseberry does not hold so prominent
a place, and its cultivation from various causes, seems to
have been much neglected. In our climate, it has been so
subject to mildew, that in many localities it is rendered al-
most worthless ; and in others, where the fruit escapes this
malady, it is rare that the varieties cultivated attain more
than half the weight which they do in British gardens. It
seems therefore, that their cultivation is not fully understood,
or is greatly neglected ] for while many fruits quite equal
their foreign reputation, the gooseberry alone appears to fall
far below it.

The attention of our cultivators is, we are glad to know,
now being more directed to this fruit than heretofore, and
efforts are making to produce seedlings of our wild gooseberry,
which is not attacked with the mildew, of increased size and
quality. The first advance has already been achieved in
that prolific variety, Houghton's Seedling, and with this for

Pruning the Gooseberry. 115

a parent, we sec no reason why we may not in a few years
possess native kinds, equalling the foreign ones in size and
excellence, and, at the same time, possessing all the hardy
and easily cultivated properties of the variety we have just
named. We have already quite a number of seedlings, and
shall look forward to their fruiting with much interest.

The pruning of the gooseberry is one of the most impor-
tant points in its cultivation. Naturally possessing a diffuse
and bushy habit, the first object is to get rid of the redun-
dancy of shoots, which a healthy bush annually produces,
rendering it but a mass of wood and foliage, obstructing the
light, preventing a free circulation of air, and appropriating
food which should go to the fruit. The best growers of the
gooseberry attach great importance to the method of pruning,
and are particular in their directions on this head : indeed,
we have no doubt, that in localities where the gooseberry is
free from the mildew, in our climate, the inferior size of
the fruit is mostly to be attributed to the improper mode of
pruning.

In order therefore, that cultivators may have the benefit of
good advice, we present them with Mr. Thompson's views
on pruning the gooseberry, illustrated so plainly by the
engraving, (Jig. 6,) that any judicious cultivator cannot fail to
be greatly benefitted by their perusal. The article is from
the Gardeners Chronicle.

The Gooseberry. — Left to its natural growth, the Goose-
berry becomes an almost impenetrable thicket, not at all
adapted for producing such fine fruit as is produced by plants
properly cultivated and pruned. The natural habit of the
Gooseberry is that of a bush, with a strong tendency to ren-
ovate itself by suckers, and the more vigorous these are, the
more liable are the old branches to fall into decrepitude and
decay. To prevent this confusion, arising from a supera-
bundance of shoots and suckers, the pruning-knife must be
employed, and that, too, at an early stage of the individual
existence of the plant.

In the accompanying engraving, it will be seen that the

lie

Pruning the Gooseberry.

wood-buds, a, a, a, a, are on the last summer's shoot, whilst

the fruit buds, &, 6, h, h, are on two years old wood. The

buds marked a, are called wood

buds, because from them young

shoots are produced, but usually not

from all of them ; for it appears, that

of the buds on the two years old

wood, which, a twelve-month back,

were similar to those now marked

a, three had produced shoots, c, c, c,

and the others formed the fruit buds,

h, b, b, b.

Gooseberries are usually propa-
gated by cuttings. These may be
taken off as soon as the young wood
has acquired a tolerable degree of
firmness, whilst the fruit is on the
tree, and planted with success, if
proper shade be afforded. But, gen-
erally, the cuttings are taken off and
planted in autumn, winter, or spring ;
but early in autumn is the best time.
Cuttings of almost any length may
be struck ; but where there is choice,
those that are moderately vigorous
and firm-wooded are preferable ; and,
if cut off close by their bases, so
much the better. They may be
shortened by cutting off the points
to ten inches in length ; in that case,
if inserted in the ground to the
depth of three or four inches, then
allowing three inches of clear stem,
the shoots from the three upper buds
of the cutting will form the first
branches of the plant. It is not nat- Fig

ural for the Gooseberry to have a, a, a, a
much of a naked stem

6. Goosebeny.
Wood buds.

r. , h, b, b, b. Fruit buds,

one 01 tliree c,c,c. Young shoots cut back.

Pj'uning the Gooseberry. 117

inches is considered sufficiently long. If the cuttings are too
short to admit of this, then the lateral young shoots must be
trimmed off closely, when the plants are removed. But
whatever length of cutting is used, all the buds ought inva-
riably to be removed from the portion intended to be inserted
in the soil ; for, if not removed, they will most probably
make their unwelcome appearance some day in the form of
suckers. Some also dress off the prickles ; but this is of less
consequence, for being only dead substance, they rot off in
the ground.

After the plants have formed shoots, these must be short-
ened according to their strength ; if moderately strong, to
about six inches. In shortening, care must be taken to cut
to a bud pointing the most towards the direction which the
branch should follow, in order to complete the form in which
the plants are intended to be kept. The general mode is to
keep the bush hollow in the middle, and six, eight, or ten
branches, at equal distances, or as nearly so as possible. If
two branches are likely to approach too near each other, one
or both must be cut to buds pointing in the opposite direc-
tion ; thus, in the accompanying figure, supposing the
branch were intended to be prolonged more towards the left,
then the young shoot is properly cut, as represented, for the
uppermost bud a to proceed in that direction. On the con-
trary, if the uppermost bud a had been on the inside of a
shoot, of which it would have been desirable that the direc-
tion should be outwards, towards the right, then it would
have been entirely wrong to cut at that bud.

Observing thus to cut at proper buds, each leading branch
may be made to diverge outwards, or to either side, to an ex-
tent sufficient for ordinary cultivation. The pruning of one
of the leading branches may now be detailed from its com-
mencement. In autumn, or early part of winter, the shoot
ought to be shortened to some extent, bearing in mind that
generally the three buds immediately below the section will
break into shoots ; therefore, it will be advisable to cut
where another leader is required to originate. Thi^ is the
first winter pruning. The second will consist in shortening

118 Pomological Gossip.

the leading shoot about one-third ; and also the other shoot
intended for an adjoining leader. If there should he another
young shoot growing strongly where not wanted, it may be
cut off close; and others, weaker, may be cut like that
marked c on the right of the engraving. The next season
the leader should be shortened, and laterals cut to one eye,
if weak, but otherwise three or four eyes may be left on
these, some of which will probably break into shoots, and
others will form fruit spurs. The other branches will require
a similar treatment. Young shoots should be trained up to
supply the place of any branch exhibiting symptoms of decay.

In the midland and northern counties, an open cup form of
bush is generally aimed at in pruning ; on the contrary, in
some cases in the south, although the branches are pruned
and thinned, yet some are left in the centre for the purpose
of shade, otherwise the fruit would be scorched. Goose-
berries may be trained to a considerable height on trellises,
arbours, &c. ; but where such is proposed to be done, free,
upright growing sorts should be selected. In some places
they are trained horizontally, by means of hooked pieces of
wood, for pulling down, and forked pieces for pushing the
branches up to a horizontal position where necessary.

On again referring to the engraving, it will be observed,
that the fruit-buds are on the two years old wood ; and on
wood of this age, the largest and finest fruit is produced.
But fruit-buds or spurs may be seen on wood much older.
Strong young shoots occasionally break out from old wood,
and if they are shortened, to keep them within bounds as
short laterals, fine fruit may also be obtained from them.

Art. IV. Pomological Gossip.

Beurre' Langelier Pear. — This fine new pear, which
fruited for the first time in this country last year, proves to
be one of the best winter varieties yet introduced. A single
specimen, produced on a tree, in the garden of Dr. C. F.

Pomological Gossip. 119

Chaplin, of Cambridge, was exhibited at a late meeting of the
Horticultural Society, and tasted by the committee. This
specimen was blown off the tree by the gale, in the early
part of October last, and did not acquire its full size ; but,
notwithstanding this, it ripened off so as to maintain the high
reputation which it had previously acquired. In size, it is as
large as the Napoleon, and something of the same form, with
a smooth, deep green, glossy skin, slightly shaded with red on
the sunny-side, — claiming a rank among the handsomest, as
well as the best pears. It has a very fine grained, buttery,
melting and juicy flesh, and a rich vinous sprightly flavor,
quite different from most winter varieties. We have a draw-
ing and full description of it, which we shall present to our
readers in the course of the spring. It will be an indispen-
sable addition to every collection. A brief account of this
pear will be found in our Vol. XII., p. 336.

The Plum in the vicinity of Albany and Buffalo.
N. Y. Dr. Wendell, of Albany, in his report to the North
American Pomological Convention, supplies the following in-
formation on the culture of the Plum in the neighborhood of
that city, so long celebrated for its superior growth of this
fruit, and from whence have been disseminated many of the
finest native varieties we possess. His remarks are worthy
the attention of those who are making selections of this fruit,
as those kinds which succeed around Albany will all do
equally well farther North and East ; the climate being fully
as severe as in any part of Massachusetts : —

The vicinity of Albany, having long been known as a
region of the state in which plum trees have grown and
bore fruit in great perfection, I may be expected to treat
more voluminously of them than of some others. The soil
apparently best adapted to the well doing of this tree and
fruit, being that which contains in it a large proportion of
argillaceous matter ; and as nearly every locality in the im-
mediate vicinity of the city, is well supplied with that ingre-
dient, the reason of the success in the cultivation is very
obvious. All varieties of hardy constitution grow well, and

120 Pomological Gossip.

bear abundantly, notwithstanding that pest to plum cultiva-
tors,— the Curculio, destroys every year a large proportion of
the crop. Various remedies have been recommended for the
protection of young fruit from its attacks. I would therefore
recommend the growers to try such as they consider most
rational, and communicate the result of their experiments to
the public, through the Horticultural journals of the country.
Plum trees are also with us liable to the canker or black
wart ; the poorer varieties and those of dark colour, are
thought to be most apt to be affected with it. Planting on
well drained lands, thorough cultivation around the trees,
and manuring them with lime, ashes, and a small quantity
of salt, will, by the tonic effect induced, render them more
likely to escape the disease than if left to themselves ; but if
the trees are attacked, notwithstanding this course be pur-
sued, free amputation of diseased limbs must be resorted to.
The varieties which are cultivated, hardy, and bear abun-
dantly, are the Drop d'Or, Reine Claude, Washington, Red
Magnum Bonum, White Magnum Bonum, Yellow Egg,
Virgin, Coe's Golden Drop, Nectarine, Prince's Imperial
Gage, Lombard, Lawrence's Gage, Bleecker's Gage, Denis-
ton's Red, Albany Beauty, Mulberry, Buel's Favourite, Jeffer-
son, Peter's Large Yellow, Columbia, Schenectady Catherine
— a delicious purple plum equal to Reine Claude — fully de-
scribed in volume 13th of Hovey^s Magazine, and copied
therefrom into the Volume for 1847, of our State Agricultural
Transactions, — Ickworth's Imperatrice, Coe's Late Red, Prune
D'Agen for Prunes, Purple Favorite, Red Gage, and a few
others. The Prune Peche, or Peach Plum, is not sufficiently
hardy to withstand our winters, as is the case with the
Orange, the Rivers's Seedling — so highly recommended by
Rivers in a recent number of the Horticulturist — the Roe's
Autimin Gage, the Bingham, the Fotheringham, the Royal
Hative, and Louis of Orleans. The Waterloo, the King of
Plums, and the first importation of Reine Claude de Bavay,
prove to be Coe's Golden Drop. This was predicted by Mr.
Rivers, in relation to the latter, as some mistake had occurred
with it by ignorant continental nurserymen ; the second im-

Pomological Gossip. 121

portation may be correct, and meet our expectations ; it is
now under trial.

GuTHRiEs Apricot Plum, — a beautiful variety has fruited
for the first time in Albany this season — 1849. — Its size va-
ries from medium to large ; its form is oval, but slightly
flattened at either end ; its exterior colour is of a rich lemon
yellow, with fine crimson dots around the stem, and on the
exposed side ; its texture is rather firm, but juicy and rich.
The colour of its flesh is yellow ; its flavor is of an apricot
character ; its stone is small and adherent to the flesh ; its
stem is inserted in a narrow but deep depression. The col-
our of the young wood is light greenish red ; its growth up-
right and quite thrifty ; its season of ripening, from the 25th
of August to the 1st of September. It originated from seed
planted at Guthrie in Scotland, and as it proves to be hardy
and prolific, and is also a handsome fruit, it may be consid-
ered by some, a desirable acquisition ; although its season of
ripening is the same as many of the finer American seedlings,
which far surpass it in size and deliciousness, as well as lus-
ciousness of texture and juice. I myself do not consider it
worthy of general dissemination ; notwithstanding it well
deserves a place in the amateur's collection. There are a
large immber of seedlings, possessing more or less excellence ;
some of them but very little inferior to many of the well
known varieties above named — growing in the vicinity of
the city ; but as the standard of excellence, which new vari-
eties must attain in order to entitle them to name or notice
is, that they are superior in some particular to any now un-
der cultivation ; and as none of them come fully up to that
high requirement, I cannot give them further attention."

W. R. Coppock, Esq. of Bufialo, also communicates some
information upon the culture of the Plum in the neighbor-
hood of Buffalo, where it succeeds finely : in connexion with
Dr. Wendell's report, it will show what are the varieties most
esteemed for general cultivation : —

The Plum, no less than the Cherry, flourishes well with

VOL. XVI. NO. III. 16

122 Pomological Gossip.

us ; it riots in good living in a not too light soil ; indeed,
both the Cherry and the Plum luxuriate in a stiff clay loam
that is well worked and drained, and contains a full share of
the inorganic constituents which composed it. The chief
emd only enemy it has to contend with, is the Curculio. Of
the many receipts that have been chronicled as certain cure,
none with us, other than the mesmeric manipulation of that
veteran Pomologist, David Thomas, ^^ stays put. ^^ That is,
catch them and draw, if you please, their proboscis. — Paving,
salt, sulphur, «fcc. &c., are of no avail ; the truth is, the ani-
mal flies, and is abundantly found in our Western woods.
In close settled districts, cities and towns, would our plum-
loving friends be industrious for a few seasons, the race, I
am satisfied, might be annihilated. In my own case, where,
a few years since, they ruined every plum and apricot, they
have, by this method of the spread sheet, &c., nearly disap-
peared ; last season I paid a penny each for every specimen ;
this season I can well pay in plums.

We have, I am sorry to see, harbored among us, a great
many mongrel seedlings, many of which, I have no doubt,
are from the Green Gage, being somewhat larger, some re-
sembling Bleeker's Gage, others, Prince's yellow Gage, and
again like the Drap d'Or. None, however, are equal to the
parent, or the varieties mentioned, and whose good name
they have pilfered. In flavor, they have no marked char-
acter, but a sickish, clammy, unwholesome dry flesh.

The varieties most esteemed are, — Washington, Lawrence's
Favorite, Bleeker's Gage, Green Gage, (seldom found true,)
Purple Favorite, Coe's Golden Drop, Prince's yellow Gage,
Diapree Rouge, and for a late plum for preserves. Frost Gage,
and for the same purpose we might add the White Magnum
Bonum, from its fine size and color. The balance of the
Magnum Bonum and Egg family are coarse, tasteless, and
valueless cumberers of the ground."

Dr. Wendell has made a slight mistake in regard to the
origin of Gutheries' Apricot Plum. It was not raised at
Guthcrie, but was produced hij Mr. Gutherie, of Tay Bank,
Scotland, who also raised several other sorts which promise
well.

Propagation of Plants by Cuttings. 123

Art. V. Propagatio7i of Plants by Cuttings. By William
Saunders, New Haven, Conn.

This is one of those manipulations in gardening, which
require more than an ordinary degree of skill in its execu-
tion, and from the exceedingly varied success of different
individuals, one would suppose, that something more than
mere practice is necessary to ensure complete and unvarying
success. This fact is more apparent, when we consider the
numerous casualties by which cuttings are affected, and our
imperfect knowledge of the laws that govern the mysterious
organization of vegetable life.

This diversity of success may partly arise from the differ-
ent notions which different persons have of the same thing ;
and it may frequently be traced to an unwarrantable reliance
which some persons place upon certain points of practice,
having in reality, no relation to the demonstrable theorem
upon which the subject in question rests. Every one ac-
quainted with the art of propagation is aware, that, under
certain conditions, cuttings will grow and make shoots witti-
out forming rootlets ; while under others, the same cuttings
will produce rootlets without manifesting the slightest elon-
gation of its external buds. Again, under certain circum-
stances, the leaves of some kinds of cuttings will turn yellow
and decay, while under others, the same kind of cuttings
will remain green and healthy for months together, even
without forming roots. The effect produced upon one sub-
ject, is precisely the same upon all subjects of a similar na-
ture, placed in the same conditions, proving that the art of
propagation is not, (as it is in the hands of many,) the mere
consequence of an unguidable operation, successful or other-
wise, as chance may direct, but that it is founded upon prin-
ciples which cannot be violated with impunity, if we wish
for satisfactory results.

From these observations it is obvious, that something more
is requisite, than merely to know how to make a cutting and

124 Propagation of Plants by Cuttings.

prepare the place for its reception ; and although these mat-
ters also require some attention, it appears to me, that they
are the least important parts of the process ; and from the
want of a proper recognition of the other parts, many of
the failures that occur may be attributed. It is, there-
fore, my intention, in the present paper, to treat upon some
of those points which are necessary to ensure success in this
interesting and important branch of horticulture.

Conflicting opinions have been given upon the influence of
leaves, in enabling the cutting to emit roots. Some very
successful propagators maintain that the more leaves left up-
on a cutting, the more rapidly will roots be emitted ; and
in particular cases, this is partly true. It is no less true,
however, that cuttings, entirely divesled of leaves, will also
produce roots abundantly, and that too, under conditions
seemingly less favorable than in the former case. These con-
siderations involve a highly important question in vegetable
physiology, and one that has not, so far as I am aware, re-
ceived that amount of attention which it deserves.

Something like the following argument, has been adduced
by various propagators, in favor of their system of retaining
the leaves, even to the base of the cutting, when practicable ; —
that there is no suspension of vital energy, as the leaves
continue to perform their proper functions, and thus pre-
pare, at the very time it is most required, a supply of organiz-
able matter, which is immediately expended upon the forma-
tion of rootlets ; and that this suspension will be regulated
by the number of leaves, and their distance from the base of
the cutting ; the assimilated matter for the production of
fibres being secreted rapidly or otherwise, according to the
quantity and quality of the leaves left.

From this, we are led to infer, that the matter of which
the rootlets are formed, is the result of, and dependent upon,
the assimilating power of the leaves. Hence, according to
this train of reasoning, we can arrrive at no other conclusions
than the following : — The more leaves left upon a cutting,
the sooner will it root, and, when leaves and other means of

Propagation of Plants hy Cuttings. 125

assimilation are absent, (as is frequently the case,) roots
will not be formed at all.

We know, however, that both these inferences are errone-
ous, and more especially with regard to the latter, from the
fact, that roots are produced in abundance Avithout the aid
of leaves, and this certainly could not be the case, if the
nodules that are formed previous to the emission of roots,
were produced by any safe, elaborating process. Although
we allow that the young bark of some plants, does, under
certain conditions, perform the same functions as the leaves,
it is only an exception to a general rule, and can have little
effect, either for good or evil on the subject in question. We
cannot, therefore, regard the above argument as giving a
satisfactory explanation of any superiority possessed, or ad-
vantage to be gained, by retaining leaves on cuttings.

Leaves are not absolutely necessary for the formation of
roots. Instances have come under my own observation, of
bulbs doubling their size and filling a large space with roots,
when covered with four or five inches of soil, without pro-
ducing a single leaf; and every gardener is aware of the ben-
eficial effects resulting from the application of a genial
warmth, (bottom heat,) to the roots of plants, which is nei-
ther more nor less than getting the roots, as it were, a stage
in advance of the foliage. On the same principle, unhealthy
plants, as camellias, oranges, &c., are resuscitated by keeping
the roots warm and the tops cool, to ensure a healthy and
vigorous action of root, previous to exciting the stem and
branches ; and this is often done after the plants are entirely
divested of leaves.

There are others, who do not ascribe so much influence to
the leaves, but assert that the rootlets are produced from the
stored-up sap existing in the cutting at the time it is planted.
Acting upon this supposition, they are careful in keeping the
soil moist, and covering the whole closely with a glass, pre-
venting communication with the external air, in order to avoid
mechanical evaporation. This may seem plausible enough,
but if we insert a deciduous cutting into moist earth, we will
find, in the course of a few weeks, a mass of newly formed

126 Propagation of Plants hy Cuttings.

tissue at the lower end. Has this been produced solely from
the stored-up sap ? All the sap that existed in the cutting,
could not have formed such a mass of matter as we frequently
find accumulated at the base of very small cuttings. In this,
as in the case of bulbs, it is evident that the roots are not
formed exclusively from the stored-up sap.

Further, — to show the futility of the opinion, that the
emission of roots is dependent upon elaborated sap, let us
look to the conditions under which a cutting with leaves, —
supposed to be under good management, — is usually placed.
We find it closely covered with a bell glass, and shaded from
light, and instead of giving it the benefit of a little fresh air
occasionally, the water required to moisten the soil is applied
outside the glass, and the latter will not be removed for weeks
together. The fact of roots being formed under these condi-
tions is a convincing proof, that it is not through the agency
of leaves, as will be seen from the following extract : —

"It is from the continued assimilation of the elementary
constituents of plants, that new products result for the for-
mation of woody fibre, and all solid matter of a similar
composition.

" This assimilating process is principally carried on in the
leaves, or occasionally in the young green bark.

" To enable the leaves to perform their functions, they must
be exposed to light and air, especially to air in motion, for
without these be allowed to act upon them, they cannot exer-
cise their power of assimilation."

We see from the above, that leaves confined under a bell
glass and shaded from light, cannot perform their functions,
and of course, cannot benefit the cuttings, nor remain long
in a healthy state, consequently they ought to be exposed
to as much light and air as their altered conditions will per-
mit, and bell glasses dispensed with as far as possible, as their
use is only substituting a greater evil to counteract a lesser.

Scientific research has failed to discover the true nature of
the chemical changes and transformations that are constantly

Propagation of Plants hy Cuttings. 127

being produced in the interior of plants. The vital principle
seems to guide and direct the various combinations that the
simple elements which they absorb, undergoes within their
vessels. But the process by which the elaborated sap is con-
verted into cellular tissue, or any other form of vegetable
structure, or the mode in which water and carbonic acid are
changed into gum or sugar, is, and may for ever remain a
profound mystery.

From the view I have taken of the subject in question, I
am led to the conclusion, that the callosity formed on the
base of a cutting, is produced by the aqueous matter which
it absorbs from the soil, mingling with the stored-up sap, and
undergoing a change in the interior of the shoot, analagous,
probably, to that carried on in the germination of a seed.*
Judging from the external appearance of this accumulated
matter, some such combination appears likely, as it is appa-
rently a mass of imperfectly organized woody fibre. As it
extends, it takes the appearance and performs the functions
of a spongiole, and gradually becomes converted into true
woody fibre, as the cutting increases in growth.

It is not to be inferred from the above, that the whole of
the leaves ought always to be removed from cuttings ; this,
in the majority of cases, would be positively injurious ; but
I think it sufficiently clear, that the leaves perform no active
part in the first formation of roots ; consequently they ought
not to be excited into growth, but placed in the lowest aver-
age temperature consistent with the nature of the plant,
while the soil in which they are inserted should approach
the highest range of temperature the roots will endure ,* to
stimulate into activity the processes carried on in the vessels
beneath the surface of the soil. And the more completely the
upward growth of the cutting is retarded, until rootlets are
formed, the greater chance has the cutting to thrive.

* Diastase is always present in tlie germination of seeds. The willow contains a large
quantity of starch among its woody fibre, and cuttings if it emit roots freely. May not
diastase be formed at the base of the cutting, to transform the starch and render it solu-
ble and Cited for facilitating the emission of roots ? And may we not form an idea of
the facility with which cuttings strike root, by the amount of starch contained in their
structure ?

128 Propagation of Plants by Cuttings.

The great stimulants of vegetable life are heat, air, light,
and moisture ; and in the management of cuttings, these
agents require to be regulated with the greatest nicety and
precision. The more leaves upon a cutting, or the softer its
texture, the more care is necessary, as it is the more liable to
suffer, either from excess or deficiency of any one of these
agents. For instance — if the cutting is subjected to a high
temperature, it will cause an immediate expansion of its buds,
and elongation of stem and leaves. Or, if under the influ-
ence of an arid atmosphere, the dry air will quickly act upon
the moist leaves, exhaust the sap and render them flaccid.
The same result will follow, if light be admitted in excess,
as it will paralyze the energies of the cutting, by a too rapid
decomposition of carbonic acid. Again, if the soil be kept
too dry, there will be no accumulation of matter at the base
of the cutting, the dry soil absorbing it as fast as produced.
On the other hand, if water be administered too copiously, the
total destruction of the cutting will rapidly ensue ; if decom-
position once commences, it soon communicates its qualities
to the whole.

In this, as in many other horticultural operations, no defi-
nite rule can be prescribed, to be equally applicable in every
case. Hence, the many contradictory directions often given
upon the same subject, which may be either right or wrong,
just according to circumstances. There are various methods
of modifying the extreme influence of the agents employed in
the economy of vegetation. While cuttings are forming
roots, the presence of light may be modified by keeping
them a sufficient distance from the glass, or by inserting them
into a large pot only half filled with soil. A humid atmos-
phere is easily maintained by the evaporation of water ; and
to prevent saturation in the soil, the pots ought to be well
drained. By inverting a small pot inside a larger one, a
chamber is formed, which allows a salutary access of air and
heat to the base of the cutting ; at the same time affording a
ready egress for superfluous moisture.

It may appear difficult to secure at all times, the exact con-
ditions required ; nevertheless, they should be aimed at, and

Tropceolum Lohhtanum. \^^

si>iG nearer they are attained, tlie sooner will the cutting form
>roots. It is only from a happy combination of all the essen-
tial points that we are to expect constant success ; and the
latter will follow in an exact ratio, as the harmony of th^.
'elements of growth are secured.
New Ha-ven^ Februcury 7th, 1850.

Art. VI. Tropreolum Lobbikmrm. By T., New "i^orjk:.

I SEE an incidental mention, in your January number, of
the TropfB^olum Lohhihrmm.. A few seeds of this showy plant
were sent me last May, from Paris, and they were planted
in a pot, as soon as received ; they were up in a f«w days,
and gave promise of such robust growth tbat I made an ex--
periment, turning a part of them into the flower beds, out of
doors, in a compost of light, rich, sandy loam. They imme-
diately took to the ground, and grew with such rapidity as to
require a strong, circular, rough-made frame, sending out lat^
erals in every direction, and running up four feet, densely
covered with a cheerful green NasturtiumAi^e foliage. Hav^
ing no indication of flowei's up to October, I suspected our
summer was not long enough, so I lifted the plants, with a
good ball of earth, and put them into rather large pots. Well
drained, with peat siftings and decomposed turf, and placed
them in the greenhouse, near the light. They soon estab-
lished themselves in their new quarters with a thriftiness of
habit that seemed to imply they were quite at home ; and by-
the middle of November were in handsome bloom, and have
continued up to this time, with no sign of diminution, a
mass of brilliant (really '' brilliant,''^) orange scarlet flowers,
imparting to the greenhouse cheerfulness and beauty, con-
trasting so pleasingly with the profusion of camellias, aca-
cias, azaleas, and cinerarias, with which they are surrounded.

I made an experiment with a part in doors, (in pots) all
summer, under obscured glass, but found not much diflier-
ence ; those out of doors were rather more robust. A good

VOL. XVI. NO. III. 17

130

TropmoluTn Lobbianum.

method would be to grow them in pots plunged in the
ground, giving them a couple of shifts, the last remove about
the first of September, as it seems yet inclined to grow rap-

Fff. 7. TropcE^olum Lobhianum.

idly. It appears to strike freely from cuttings, so that, no
doubt, it will be plentiful and cheap, next spring. The fo-
liage is much larger than T. tricolorum, or Jarratt?, and more
of a Nasturtium appearance, which rather adds to its merit.
I have observed that the foliage injures by being exposed too
long to the direct rays of the sun ; perhaps during summer
an exposure where the sun is off by noon, would be prefer-
able. Plants raised from cuttings, however, may do better,
as they have more stamina than seedlings planted late, and
driven forward with heat and moisture. Flowering dur-
ing the winter is its sterling quality, and when intermixed

General Notices. 131

with white camelUas and NeapoHtan violets, in a bouquet,
has a cheerfuhiess of color, and a contrast which is most
pleasing.

New York, Jan. 24, 1850.

Since our notice of this fine species, at the page alluded
to above, (10,) our plants have been constantly in bloom,
and have appeared so great an addition to our stock of mid-
winter blooming plants, that we were just on the point of
preparing a more extended account of it, with an engraving,
when the above excellent hints on its management, came to
hand, relieving us of the necessity of doing so.

We therefore present our amateur friends with the an-
nexed representation of this brilliant Tropasolum, remarking,
however, that justice cannot be done to it in so limited a
space. A plant rambling over a circular or balloon trellis,
three feet high, with hundreds of its glowing, butterfly-like
flowers, wreathed among its velvetty, circular, bluish-green
foliage, must be seen, to give a true idea of this charming
plant. It is a native of Colombia, in S. America, and was
found by Mr. Lobb, the collector of Messrs. Yeitch, of Ex-
eter, England, who introduced it in 1843. It may be raised
from seeds, or cuttings which strike readily

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General M)tices.

Gesnera Zebrina, — A more useful plant than this for decorating the
stove and conservatory during the autumn and winter months can hardly
exist. The long period which it remains in beauty, the richness of its
blossoms, and the elegantly marked velvet foliage, form altogether a very
rich effect. The only disadvantage attending its growth, arises from its
brittleness and consequent liability to damage in a crowded house of plants.
If you can grow it well, and afford it ample room for display, it will abun-
dantly repay all the attention you can give it.

To produce it in the noble form of which it is capable, one plant only
must be grown in a pot. By so doing, plants more than two feet high may
be easdy obtained, crowned with a magnificent raceme of flowers, twelve
or fourteen inches in length. There is one peculiarity about this plant
which requires attention. When it is put into its blooming pot it should be

132' General Notices-,

placed an inch deeper than before, and for this reason : Like the nohle Japan;
lilies, it throws ont the greater part of its rootSj (i. e. its true roots, by which,
nourishment is obtained ; the' parts by wliich the Gesnera is propagated are-
strictly speaking stems,) if left to itself, iinnsediately at tlie surface of the
soil ; and if advantage is not taken: of such a peculiarity, all the resources
of the plant are not developed.

The folloiving Avill be four^d a tolerably successful course of culture z
When it is thought desirable to start the dormant plants in spring, turni
them out of the pats they had previously occupied, and, selecting the most
promising " roots," plant four round tlie inside of a four or fi«^e-ineh pot^
using a soil chiefly composed of leaf-mould and sand, and place them in a
gentle bottom heat, as a cucumber frame in which young plants are being
raised. As soon as the young plants are an inch high, or when they have-
two fully fwrned bases, give each a separate pot, say a fouT-inch, replace
them in the bed, and at the expiration of a day or two give them a good
watering. As soon as they are somewhat established, they must be re-
moved to another pit or frame, in which they can be supplied witli plenty of"
air to keep them robust, as one great beauty of the plants will be to enable
them to support themselves witliout the assistance of a stake. Immediately
sufficient roots are formed to enable you, repot them, Avitliout breaking the
ball ; put them in their blooming' pots ; — nine-inch pots are a very good size —
handsome plants may, liowever, be grown in eight-inch pots. The soil this
time should have an addition of ojie-third very fibrous loam, to give it con-
sistency, and to enable it to retain moisture, as they absorb much. The
plants win be much benefitted if kept in an airy pit or frame till their growth:
is nearly completed, and tlie pots filled witli roots, when they may be re-
moved to the stove, and supplied with liquid manure, while the flowers are
forming, and till they expand, when tlie plants may be removed to tlie draw-
ing-room or conservatory, to either of which they will form beautiful orna-
ments, remaining as they do for whole weeks, and almost months in perfec-
tion.

It may not be generally known that there are two varieties of this plant>
and that one is very superior to tlie other in every respect. Had I not
grown tliem side by side for two seasons, I should have believed that treat-
ment must have had sometliing to do in the matter, but I am convinced that
it is otherwise. One of the varieties is of a more compact, more robust
habit than the other, and its foliage is much larger and more richly and
beautifully marked, and bears a raceme of larger flowers, which are set
closer upon their axis, and the whole appearance of tlie plant is much supe-
rior to the other. This plant is very liable to be infested with the mealy
bug ; they congregate in the flower-heads when forming, and if not removed,
will seriously detract from their ultimate beauty. The most desirable, and
at the same time, most effectual mode of getting rid of them, is to remove
them with a small brush. Never crush tliem on these plants — wherever you
do so the stem at those places assumes a black decayed appearance, and is
very unsightly to look upon. — {Gard. Chron., 1849, p. 780.)

General Notices. 133

Rosa Manettii as a Rose Stock. — The following letter from Mr.
Appleby, of York, will perhaps save you a little labor ; it is all true.

" When you were here, in September last, you requested me to send you
an account of my success witli tlie Rosa Manettii as a stock for roses gen-
erally. I got a few (I believe about 20,) from you about four years ago, and,
having great faith in what you said respecting its capabilities, I was deter-
mined to give it a fair trial, and accordingly I endeavored to make the most
of it. I planted them out as stools, and the following winter I took the
crop of cuttings and planted tliem in the usual manner, and I am not aware
that I lost one of them. Those I also planted out as stools, and the crop of
cuttings this time was planted in rows 18 inches apart, and G inches in tlie
row. This was in tlie montli of March, 1847, and in August following, they
were all fit for budding. I say all, because I do not think tliat ten in a hun-
dred died, alUiough tliey were fully exposed to tlie weather in an open quar-
ter. Some of these were budded as late as the last week in September,
and still tliey took well generally. They broke freely in the spring follow-
ing, and by the autumn many of them were as high as myself, which quite
delighted me, for I had never seen any tiling in rose culture like them. 1
now valued Manetti cuttings like gold, and I ordered my men not to tlirow
away an inch that was likely to make a plant. In the spring of 1848 I was
enabled to make a tolerably good plantation of them ; and, although they
were planted late, (I believe in the beginning of April,) and the season set
in dry, I nevertheless lost but few of tliem ; but they were late in getting
hold of the ground, and I did not get them budded until the end of Septem-
ber, still the buds took well as before, and you were yourself a witness to
the progress tliey have made. There are many sorts amongst them that I
could never get to tlirive — in fact, scarcely to exist — upon the brier, tliat are
now (in one year) from 3 to 4 feet high, and strong in proportion ; and
others (that are free growers) I have 6 feet high, witli from 6 to 12 shoots
from each bud. I will here enumerate a few sorts tliat are known to be bad
growers upon the brier, and state the height which they have attained in
one season. I will begin with Eblouissante de la Queue (Gal.), grafted in
April last, now 3 feet high and strong; Chateaubriand (Damask), also
grafted at tlie same time, 3 feet ; Perle des Panaches (Gal.), budded in Sep-
tember, 1848, now from 3 to 4 feet ; Tricolor de Flandres (Gal.), budded
same time, 3 to 4 feet; Cynthie (Gal.), budded same time, 2 feet; La Clierie
(Damask), budded same time, 2 feet ; Crimson Perpetual, budded same
time, 3 feet ; Rivers (Laffay's), same time, 4 feet, and many others of simi-
lar habit of growth have made the same progress. Then, of stronger grow-
ing sorts, the following (which were all budded in September, 1848,) are
now respectively the heights quoted, viz. : Bourbon (Splendens), 5 feet ;
Comte Plater, 6 feet, very strong; Diane de Poitiers, 6 feet; Madame
Stoltz, 4 feet ; Dombrowski, 5 feet ; Moss Laneii, 5 feet, and some of them
with a dozen shoots from one bud ; do. Lancel, 4 feet ; do. Louis Colet,
4 feet ; do. White Bath, 4 feet ; do. Blush, 5 feet ; do. Crunson, 5 feet ;
do. Malvina, 5 feet ; do. Moussue Partout, 5 feet ; do. Presque Partout, 5
feet ; do. De Metz, 5 feet ; Comte de Flandres (Gal.) and Spotted Provence,

134 General Notices.

5 feet ; and in Bourbons, I have Acidalie, 3 to 4 feet ; Desgaches, Car-
dinal Pesch, and Madame Ande, 4 to 5 feet ; Madame Nerard, B. Queen,
and Anne Beluse, 2 feet ; (these have been in bloom from last May, and
are still covered with buds and bloom) ; Princesse Clementine, Emilie Cour-
tier, and several others are from 2 to 3 feet, and have been constantly in
bloom all summer. In the Hybrid Perpetuals I have Robin Hood, 3 to
4 feet, and complete bushes ; Cornet, 5 feet, very strong ; Sidonie, 4
feet, and most robust. Every plant, if standing singly, would have the
appearance (in size) of a large dahlia plant at this season of the year.
Geant des Batadles would have been quite as large, had they not been cut
down for buds. Baronne Prevost, Mrs. Elliot, Duchess of Sutherland, La
Reine, Madame Laffay, Wm. Jesse, and several otliers, are all similar
plants ; and Jaune Desprez, with some of the new Prairie roses budded on
this stock, are 10 feet high in one season. The quarters of stocks which
you saw (newly budded) when you were here in September, were all planted
in March last, and are now from 3 to 4 feet high, and many of them an inch
in circumference. They are budded with all the best sorts of roses ; and I
have especially endeavored to get those sorts worked upon them that have
usually been bad growers, (tliough some of the best roses,) and of which I
could never get any stock, and I have no doubt but the result will be to my
satisfaction. Anotlier year, I intend to bud those stocks with Bourbons,
Hybrid Perpetuals, Chinas, &c., from 1 foot to 3 feet high, as dwarf stand-
ards ; and I feel confident they will form beautiful heads. So confident am
I of the superiority of the Rosa Manettii over every otlier stock for roses,
that I shall never again plant any other, excepting for full-sized standards.
All other stocks, in my light sandy soil, tlirow out quantities of suckers,
which are constantly robbing tlie bud of its support, to say nothing of tlie
labor they occasion to get rid of them ; but this stock does nothing of the
kind, unless a stray bud has been left on in dressing them, and then it
merely comes up close to the stem, and is easily got rid of, as they never'
produce stolons or underground suckers. Another advantage is, that it
tlirives well on light soils, where the brier will not tlu-ive at all ; and this does
away with all the objections that some parties have to worked roses, as all
roses seem to do well alike on it — ^better, in fact, than upon tlieir own roots,
and no doubt they will bloom better. Besides, many roses on their own
roots are constantly throwing a quantity of root suckers, and ultimately run
wild. The above is a faithful account of my success with the Rosa Man-
ettii as a stock for the generality of roses."

The history of the Manettii sttock is as follows : — Some 12 or 15 years
since a Signor Crivelli, of Como, attracted by an article in Loudon's " Gar-
deners' Magazine," wrote to me, offering to exchange some seedling Italian
roses for choice named varieties. I sent him a small collection, and in return
received from him some seedling roses; among them were Rosa indica
grandiflora and Rosa indica Manettii, two very small plants- These he
described as being hybrid China roses, and most valuable roses for stocks in
the dry climate of Italy. I soon found, that altliough so much alike in habit
as scarcely to be distinguished, they differed most materially in tliis respect ;

Genial Notices. 135

the former could only be propagated by layers, Avhile of tlie latter every
cutting grew. I gradually increased my stock of the latter, and now prop-
agate from 40,000 to 50,000 annually. As with all new articles in garden-
ing, I had to buy some experience, for I found if I grew them in a rich soil
and budded them at the usual period, the buds rotted ; they appeared to be
drowned in the superabundance of sap. At last Isaw it was necessary to plant
them in poor soils and bud them in September. — [Gard. C7^ro7^., 1849, p. 742.)
Calla CEthiopica, as an Aquatic Plant. — Here, in our fragery (a
ditch so called), tliis plant thrives amazingly under the most prknitive mode
of culture. Indeed the only secret connected with its most satisfactory
growth, seems confined to the protection of its root from frost. The water
in which it grows may be sheeted over for any ordinary length of time, witli
ice of any reasonable thickness, so tliat it does not actually reach the root ;
moreover, it seems equally indifferent about the quality of the water, or de-
scription of sou in which it is located. Some twenty years ago, I had four
roots planted amongst some other aquatics in the above-named ditch, with
about eighteen inches of water, supplied from an artesian bore,* in one end
of which the mud was at least a foot deep ; in this, two of the roots were
planted. The other end was bare gravel, so much so that we had to put
stones upon the two other plants, by way of anchor, to keep them from
drifting, till they made a few roots to hold themselves to the bottom. Three
of them are now large masses (the fourth was killed the first severe winter
after planting, the water not being deep enough, about eight inches, to keep
the frost from the root), and grow and flower equally free on the gravel and
in the mud ; and a splendid appearance they have, from five to six weeks
every May and June, having from sixteen to twenty flowers on each plant.
Since first planted, they have been two or three times cut down to the surface
of the water (foliage as well as flowers), at the end of April or beginning of
May, by frost, but without receiving a permanent injury. By the end of
July they had completely covered their elegant leaves ; and although the
second crop of flowers was neither so large nor so plentiful as those cut off,
still they made a very tolerable show in the August and September follow-
ing, and contrasted finely with the very different habit of some yellow and
white Water-LUies, their neighbors ; indeed, I think it might be worth while
to cut one of the plants down every spring, for the sake of the autmnn flower.
There are at present growing, in a small pond in the kitchen garden at Cas-
tle hill, two plants of the ^Ethiopian Calla, which have been in their present
situation for at least seven years. They were fonnerly standing in pots in
the greenhouse, and were removed to their present situation in the same
pots, merely sinking them to the bottom of the pond. I may observe, that
since they were removed to tlieir present station tliey have increased to a
large size, and at present stand at least 2^ feet above the water. They are

*This water coats every thing with rust in an incredibly short time, and many plants
we have occasionally watered with it have died. Indeed, one very dry summer, we
thought to have our lawn greener than other people's, and used this water very freely ;
the consequence was, that the grass died out in large patches, and yet these aquatics
grow like willows in it. By the way, some weeping willows planted by it csmkcr off in
large branches.

136 General Notices.

occasionally cut down to the water's edge during winter, but never fail to
produce abundant blooms during summer. The pond, in which gold fish are
kept, is about 'ih feet deep, is formed inside of brick, and supplied with water
from a jet in the centre. — ( Gard. Chron., 1849, p. 743.)

Pruning and Training the Peach Tree. — It has been admitted by
the majority of our most eminent practical gardeners, that the fan system of
training peach trees is the best, and it is unquestionably the most natural ;
but, notwithstanding this, there are some evils to which tlie plan is liable,
and which, by a little obsei'vation and care, may be avoided, even by persons
little initiated in the art of practical gardening. A little observation will
readily discover the tendency which the central shoots of the tree have to
take the lead, and rob the oblique and horizontal branches of their due pro-
portion of sap. These vertical shoots will gradually, from their position, be-
come stronger and stronger; whereas the others, in like proportion, will
gradually get Aveaker and weaker. The result of such a state of things must
clearly be the death of the lower branches ; the tree consequently becomes
disfigured, and this unbalanced distribution of the sap naturally interferes
with the regularity with which the crop is produced, as well as with the
quality of the fruit itself. I would therefore, particularly direct attention to
this important point, with a view to steer clear of the evil, Avhich can only
be done by attending early to it ; for, if young trees are properly begun, and
so continued for the first three years, it may in a great measure be obviated.

First, then, allow no strong shoots to exist in the centre of the tree, and
this must be eflfected in the summer pruning, or rather disbudding. There
need be no fear that there will be a deficiency of shoots in the centre. The
next point is, to give the extremities of the under branches an inclination
upwards. This will draw the sap in that direction, and relieve the middle
of the tree. Again, never allow the intermedial central branches to extend
so far as the others ; the sap will, consequently, be controlled and regulated.
The tree thus trained, will present a much more beautiful and natural form,
the crop will be more regular and perfect, and the tree itself will continue
to bear for a much longer time. The period selected for pruning the peach
has, in most cases, been the spring. This is, however, the very worst time
throughout the whole year for pruning this tree ; as much of this kind of
work as it is possible to perform may be more advantageously done in early
summer, by regulating the buds, and by not laying in a much greater num-
ber of shoots than may be required to secure a sufficiency of bearing wood,
keeping in mind that on the current season's growth the following year's
crop mainly depends. By careful and continued disbudding during summer,
so as to retain no more shoots than the tree's well-being and fruitfulness re-
quire, many evils will be avoided which winter and spring pruning obviously
inflict.

When the crop is gathered, and the leaves begin to fall in the autumn,
then is the time to regulate and shorten back the young shoots, practice hav-
ing fully proved the advantage of cutting away at least one half of the
young growtli ; and when tliis is of a weakly kind, two-thirds may be re-
moved with advantage. After the tree is pruned, it may be left in a partial-
ly unfastened state until the following spring. — ( Gard. Chron., 1849, p. 743.)

Domestic Notices. 137

Art. II. Domestic JVotices.

Annual Exhibition of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Socie-
ty.— The next annual exhibition will be held in Philadelphia, on Wednes-
day, Thursday and Friday, the 18tli, 19th and 20th of September, next.

Horticultural Society of the Valley of Genessee. — This society
held its annual meeting on the 4th of February, 1850, at Rochester, and
elected the following officers for the ensuing year : —

President, Levi A. Ward, Rochester.

Vice Presidents, 1st, Samuel Miller, 2d, M. G.Warner, Rochester, 3d, H.
P. Norton, Brockport, 4tli, J. J. Thomas, Macedon, 5th, Asa Rowe Sweden.

Corresponding Secretary, D. M. Dewey.

Recording Secretary, J. A. Eastman.

Treasurer, J. H. Watts.

Committees on Fruits, Trees, Shrubs, and Flowers, Vegetables, Botany,
&.C. &c., were also elected, [JVew Yorker).

New Mode of Preventing The Potato Rot. — Dr. A. A. Hayes, of
Boston, recently communicated a letter to the Hon. W. B. Calhoun, President
of the Legislative Agricultural Meetings, upon a new mode of preventing
the spread of the potato rot, after the crop had been harvested. Mr. Hayes
states, " that the rapid decay which continues after the roots have been removed
from the soil, is often of the most remarkable character, and aside from its
economical bearing, is a subject of scientific importance. During the last
season, I made trial of some chemical agents, which specifically arrest all veg-
etation, hoping to discover an application which would enable us to preserve
the diseased potatoes fi-om further changes. Early in the course of the ex-
periments, it was noticed that a reduction of temperature by exposure to cold
air, greatly diminished the rapidity of decay, while a slight increase of tem-
perature hastened it ; moisture being present or not.

Heat in a moist atmosphere increased the destruction, and samples whicli
had been cooled, and thereby partly protected, readily passed tlirough all
the changes when again exposed to warm and humid air. After using sev-
eral substances by direct contact with diseased parts of potatoes, I soon
found that the mixture of sulphurous acid, nitrogen and common air, such as
exists when sulphur is burnt in closed vessels, would prevent the further
progress of the disease in tubers already affected, and when exposed in con-
tact witli tubers, passing through all stages of the disease, no further change
in the prepared ones was induced.

The trials were varied, and the uniformity of the results has led me to
conclude, that the fumes of burning sulphur, flowing in contact with potatoes
partly diseased, will arrest the further progress of the disease and prevent
decay. It is proper that this conclusion should be received as an expression
of fact, under the circumstances of experiments on a small small scale, and
with no more than two varieties of potatoes ; but I confidently expect that
the importance of the application will be seen in the largest exhibition of
its effects.

VOL. XVI. NO. III. 18

138 Domestic Notices.

The practical use of the sulphurous acid gas is very simple, and not ex-
pensive. Crude sulphur inflamed in a shallow cast-iron vessel, or an earthen
pot, furnishes the fumes which may be led by wooden pipes, to the lower
part of bins filled with the roots, until the unoccupied space is filled with
them. As the fumes cool, they become heavier than air, and will then enter
every interstice. By placing the pot of burning sulphur in an empty barrel
and inverting over it a barrel filled with potatoes, having a light, rack in
place of a head, the fumes will slowly rise within and impregnate the
mass ; the barrel and contents being then removed, and the head replaced,
the exposure may be considered as ample. Where the quantity is large, it
would be more economical to leave a space vacant, below the loose floor on
which they repose, and introduce these fumes until every part of the heap of
potatoes has received a share.

It should be remembered that tliis application will injure, if not destroy
the vegetating power of the tubers, and that although this result may be
highly desirable, for all that are preserved for food, tliose intended for seed
should not be so treated. Respectfully, A. A. Hayes, State Assayer.

Robinson's Defiance Verbena. — This very brilliant scarlet verbena is
said to be one of the finest that has been produced. It flowered abundantly,
with Messrs. Thorburn & Co. at Astoria, last summer, and fully sustains its
foreign reputation. As a bedding plant, it is a perfect gem, of a good habit,
blooming freely, and producing large trusses of vivid scarlet blossoms.

Next Fair of the New York State Agricultural Society. —
The next Annual Fair of this flourishing society will be held at Albany on
the 3d, 4th, 5th and 6tli of September next. The premium list for 1850
was adopted at the last meeting in February, and ordered to be published. —
Ed.

Lashmere's Seedling Grape. — Can any of the readers of your Maga-
zine give me any account of this grape ? It has been described as a white
grape, rich and vinous in flavor, a great bearer, hardy, and well adapted
for cultivation out of doors. In the first stages of its growth, the fruit is
said to resemble the Muscat of Alexandria, but as it approaches maturity,
it assumes a more globular shape. This is its character in England, where
it, seems to have gained for itself the character of the best grape for open
air culture that has yet been produced. I am not acquainted with it ;
but am anxious to obtain it. If yourself or any of your readers, can give
some account of it, how it succeeds in our climate, and where it can be ob-
tained, it will oblige myself and some others. Yours respectfully, R. B.
Leuchars, Clifford House, Baltimore.

[Any of our friends who can give the desired information, will oblige our
correspondent as well as ourselves. — Ed.]

Mildness or the Winter. — Up to tlie present time, (Feb. 26th,) the
winter has been unusually mild and pleasant, with but very few storms of
snow or rain, and the thermometer below zero but once, in the neighborhood
of Boston, and that on the 5th of February. The prospect now is, of an
abundant fruit crop of all kinds, particularly of peaches, should no late spring
frosts intervene between this and May. — Ed.

Albany and Rensselaer Horticultural Society. 139

Art. III. Albany and Rensselaer Horticultural Society.

The annual meeting of the Society was held at the State Agricultural
Society Rooms, February 6, 1850, J. Rathbone, President in the chair.

The report of the treasurer was presented and accepted.

On motion of Dr. Herman Wendell.

Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to nominate officers
and to report a premium list for the ensuing year.

The President appointed iis the committee, Dr. Herman Wendell, E. P.
Prentice, and B. B. Kirtland.

Previous to the committee retiring, tlie President, Mr. Rathbone, informed
the Society that he was grateful for the kindness which had been manifested
to him in electing him as their presiding officer for the last three years ;
and that he desired to decline being a candidate for reelection.

The committee retired, and, on their return, reported the following named
gentlemen as officers for the ensuing year :

President. — V. P. Douw, Greenbush.

Vice Presidents. — E. P. Prentice, Bethlehem ; Dr. Herman Wendell, Al-
bany ; Stephen E. Warren, Troy ; Amos Briggs, Schaghticoke.

Secretary. — B. P. Johnson, Albany.

Treasurer. — Luther Tucker, Albany.

Managers. — B. B. Kirtland, Greenbush ; J. M. Lovett, Albany ; L. Me-
nand, Watervliet ; J. McD. Mclntyre, Albany ; W. A. McCulloch, Green-
bush ; James Wilson, Albany ; William Newcorab, Pittstown ; E. C. Mcin-
tosh, Albany.

The report of the committee was accepted, and the persons named, were
duly elected officers for the ensuing year.

Col. Rathbone resigned the chair, and introduced the newly elected Presi-
dent, V. P. Douw, Esq., who returned thanks for the honor conferred upon
him, and assured the Society that his best effiarts sliould be devoted to its
interests and welfare, trusting that he should be sustained by the members
in carrying out fully the objects of the association.

On motion of Dr. Herman Wendell,

Resolved, That the thanks of the Society be tendered to Mr. Rathbone,
for the able and satisfactory manner in which he has discharged the duties
of the office of president during the last tliree years, rendered peculiarly
arduous in the organization of the Society ; and tliat the Society is under
great obligations to him for its prosperous and gratifying condition at tlie
close of his services as president.

Standing committees on fruits, flowers, vegetables, &c., were also elected
for the year.

Fruits. — The Committee on Fruits beg leave to report, that there was
exhibited by E. P. Prentice, of Mount Hope, fourteen varieties of apples,
viz : — Winter Pearmain, Flusliing Spitzenberg, R. I. Greening, Kilham Hill,
Gloria Mundi, Poughkeepsie Russet, Golden Pippin, Tolman's Sweet, Red
Gilliflower, Ancient Briton, Yellow Newtown Pippin, Vandervere, Peck's
Pleasant, and Westfield Seek-no-Further.

140 Albany and Rensselaer Horticultural Society.

By Dr. H. Wendell, eight varieties of apples, viz : — Swaar, Gravenstein,
Vandervere, Yellow Newtown Pippin, Golden Pippin, Mela di Carla, Win
ter Sweet, and Granawinkle ; also, Inconnue Van Mons pears.

By Jolin S. Gould, Fall Pippin, Yellow Newtown Pippin, Green Newtown
Pippin, and Roman Stem.

By S. Morgan, Pine Grove, nine varieties of apples, viz : — Red Gilli-
flower, Fall Pippin, Esopus Spitzenberg, Dominie, Golden Sweeting, Pen-
nock, Nonsuch, Poughkeepsie Russet, and Yellow Belleflower.

By J. Gary, Isabella grapes, as fresh as when first gatliered ; have been
packed in cotton, in jars, and excluded from the air.

By B. P. Johnson, a large collection of standard varieties from Messrs.
R. G. Pardee, J. Campbell, R. H. Brown, J. Park, F. W. Lay, H. Foster,
W. Rogers, Dennis Clark, and Robert Patterson, of Wayne and Monroe
counties, and also a number of varieties from J. C. Hubbard, of Troy,
Michigan, and L. P. Grosvenor, of Pomfret, Connecticut, all of whom will
please accept the thanks of the Society. This display of fruits, grown at a
distance from our immediate vicinity, gave increased interest to the exhibi-
tion, as it enabled the members of the Society to compare the fruits of their
own orchards and gardens with those from abroad.

PREMIUMS.

Apples. — For the best and most extensive collection, to E. P.

Prentice, . . . . . . . $5 00

For the second best collection, to S. Morgan, . . 3 00

Pears. — For the best one variety exhibited, Inconnue Van

Mons, by Dr. Herman Wendell, . . . . 2 00

And a discretionary premium for Isabella grapes, to Jos, Gary, . 1 00

V. P. Douw, Chairman.
Flowers. — Owing to the cold weather, (5° below 0,) the competition was
limited. Mr. L. Menand, J. Wilson, J. Rathbone, and V. P. Douw, Esq.,
were the principal exhibitors. Miss Eliza Carey exliibited an Herbareum,
composed of more than one hundred dried specimens of indigenous flowers,
which deserves the highest commendation of the committee, on account of
the admirable preservation of the specimens, and their life-like appearance,
as well as the manner of their arrangement. Each flower had its botanic
description, its botanic name, its vulgar name, and an appropriate quotation
indicating its signification in Flora's vocabulary. Also a collection of ma-
rine plants, gathered by Miss C. during the last summer, of over fifty speci-
mens, arranged in the same manner, to the whole of which the committee
award a discretionary premium of $3.

premiums.
For the best display of cut greenhouse flowers, the committee beg leave
to combine the first and second premiums, (making it $5,) and dividing it
equally between Col. Rathbone and Mr. Menand, as the collections were
so equally balanced in merit as to render a different distribution of the
prizes unjust to one or the other of the competitors.

For the best round hand bouquet, to J. Wilson, . . $2 00

For the best flat hand bouquet, to J. Wilson, . . . 2 00

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 141

For the best six plants of different varieties, in pots, to L.

Menand, of Watervliet, . . . . . 3 00

Caimellia Japonicas. — For the best display of cut flowers

with foliage, to J. Wilson, for 24 varieties, . . . 3 00

For the best six varieties, to J. Wilson, for Abby Wilder,
Saccoi Magnifique, Fimbriata, Lady Hume's Blush, Ama-
bile, Ochroleuca, . . . . . . 2 00

For the best three varieties, to J. Wilson, for Abby Wilder,

Saccoi Magnifique and Lady Hume's Blush, . . 2 00

Primroses in pots. — For tlie best six varieties, to J. Wilson, 2 00

For the best three varieties, to V. P. Douw, of Wolvenhook, 1 00

S, Howard, Chairman.
Vegetables. — The Committee on Vegetables report that there was ex-
hibited by John S. Gould several very fine heads of Cauliflowers, equal to
any ever exhibited before the Society, and brought to this state of perfec-
tion by taking plants in the autumn, — which were partially grown, — and
planting them in tlie cellar, to which they award a prize of $2.

By V. P. Douw, Esq., half a dozen full grown heads of Coss Lettuce, to
which they award $2.

Also, fine Custard Squashes, by E. P. Prentice, Esq., and Orange Car-
rots, of large size, by S. Morgan, which deserve commendation.

Robert Harper, Chairman.

Art. IV. Massachusetts Horticidturcd Society.

Saturday, January 26th, 1850. — An adjourned meeting of the Society
was held to-day, — Vice President, B. V. French in the chair.

The treasurer was added to the finance committee to settle with the exec-
utors of the late Theodore Lyman.

The Committee of arrangements reported through their chairman, J.
Breck, that the next annual exhibition should be held on Tuesday, Wednes-
day, Thursday, and Friday, the 17th, 18th, 19th, and 20th, of September next.

A letter was read from the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, relative
to the time of holding their next annual exhibition.

The committee appointed to take into consideration the resolution of Mr.
C. M. Hovey, in regard to what alterations, if any, are necessary in regard
to the exhibitions of the current year, asked leave to be discharged from
any further duty, and that the unfinished business be referred to the Com-
mittee on the President's Address. Accepted.

Adjourned two weeks, to February 9th.

February 2d. — Exhibited. — Flowers : From Messrs. Hovey & Co., a
seedling Camellia, very fine ; form of flower rounding to the centre and
full, petals broad, smooth, and generally very perfect. Color, a bright crim-
son scarlet, much the shade of the Bractea of Poinsettia pulcherrima ; size
of flower large. This is decidedly the most showy seedling Camellia that
has been exhibited; the color is new, beautiful, and very rich; foliage

142 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

large, pointed, and acutely serrated. — For the Committee, D. HAGGERSTo^,
Chairman.

Fruits : Pears. — Beurr6 Langelier, from Dr. C. F. Chaplin, Cambridge-
port : a handsome pear of good size, bearing some resemblance to the Bart-
lett in its appearance; of a spirited, pleasant flavor, juicy, melting, and
promises to sustain its European reputation.

Apples. — From C. G. Parsons, of Freeport, Maine, name not known.

Grapes. — From J. F. Allen, Chasselas of Fontainbleau, and Black Ham-
burgh, of last year's crop.

Pears. — From F. Tudor, Crassane. (?)

February 9th. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, —
the President in the chair.

The committee appointed to settle with the Mount Auburn Cemetery,
made their annual report, as follows :

Total amount of sales, .... $14,568 28

Expenses deducted, .... 1,400 00

Net amount, ..... $13,168 28

Massachusetts Horticultural Society's proportion of net proceeds, one
quarter, $3,292 07, which sum had been paid into the hands of the Trea-
surer. The report was accepted.

Packages of seeds were received from C. W. Dabney, of Fayal, and
Capt. Page Brewer, of Boston, and were placed in the hands of the chair-
man of the Flower Committee for distribution at the next meeting. The
thanks of the Society were voted for these donations.

The committee charged with the duty of printing the reports of the com-
mittees, awarding premiums for 1849, were discharged from that duty.
Adjourned two weeks, to February 23d.

Exhibited. — Flowers : The exhibition of Camellias for premiums took
place to-day, and there were only two competitors for the prizes, Messrs.
Hovey and A. Bowditch.

From Messrs. Hovey, 22 varieties, as follows : — Double white, fimbri^ta,
Mrs. Abby Wilder, imbricata, Derbyana, elegans, candidissima, Philadel-
phia, tricolor, Donckelaeri, reticulata, speciosa, conspicua, ochroleuca, con-
spicua, (of the French,) conchifl6ra, Floyw, myrtifolia, Estheri, and Prattw.
From A. Bowditch, 10 varieties, including Wilderi and fimbriata.

PREMIUMS AWARDED.

Camellias. — For the best 12 varieties, to Messrs. Hovey & Co., $8.

February 16th. — Exhibited. — Flowers : From Messrs, Hovey &l Co.,
another of their new seedling Camellias, remarkable both for its color and
form, it being the darkest camellia yet seen ; the color a rich deep maroon,
just the shade of Rivers's, Geo. the IV. rose. The flowers imbricated to the
centre, the petals circular, and without the least indentation on the edge,
and arranged with the greatest regularity. The foliage large, exceedingly
rich, deep green, glossy, and slightly serrated on the edge. Habit of the
plant erect and vigorous.

Horticultural Operations for March. 143

HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS

FOR MARCH.

FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines, this month, will be the principal objects of attention in this
department. They will now begin to start in all tlie houses, except in
those wholly thrown open to the winter. In the greenhouse they will come
forward more rapidly than in the vinery, on account of the greater temper-
ature required for the plants, and by tlie middle of the month will show
their flower buds. If they show any signs of breaking unevenly be on the
look out to prevent it by timely tying down, or bending the shoots so as
to throw the sap into those eyes which are dormant. Syringe morning,
noon, and night, in good weather, and keep the house as cool as is safe for
the well doing of tlie plants, until all the buds have advanced about an
inch. In graperies nearly the same routine should be pursued. In cold
houses the eyes will not advance much till the close of the month, but care
should be taken to keep them well ventilated, tliat the vines may be kept back,
and not be endangered by cool nights, which often occur in March. Vines
in the open air may now be pruned, and tied up to the trellis. Vines in
pots, now swelling their fruit, should be kept in a warm part of the house.

Fig Trees, in pots, now in full leaf, should be freely syringed, and the
roots supplied with moisture.

Peach Trees, in pots, should be liberally supplied with water and liquid
manure. Peach trees may now be brought in for a succession.

Strawberries, in pots, should be kept near tlie glass, and be liberally
watered. Give an abundance of air.

Root Grafting may yet be performed successfully.

Pruning Orchards should now be continued, and, if possible, the whole
work accomplished before April.

Raspberry Plantations and Strawberry Beds may be partially
uncovered the last of the month.

Scions of Fruit Trees may yet be cut, keeping them as we directed
last month.

Gooseberry and Currant Bushes commence their growth so early,
that pruning should be done this month if possible. See a valuable article
in a preceding page.

flower department.

Dahlias should now be objects of attention witli every gardener or ama-
teur who wishes to keep up a good display of this fine flower during the
summer. A few roots should be started now, and others in succession.
Sow the seeds now in a hot bed.

Camellias will soon begin to make their new wood, and will require
greater supplies of water, and liberal syringing over the foliage. Give
weak, liquid guano once a fortnight. Inarching should now be attended to.

144 Horticultural Operations for March.

Pelargoniums will soon show signs of blooming ; if they are wanted
for show in May the buds should be picked off, and the plants sliould be
rather sparingly watered. Syringing should also be dispensed witli, as it is
apt to injure the foliage ; fumigate to destroy all green flies as soon as they
make their appearance. Water occasionally with liquid guano. Keep tlie
shoots tied out neatly, and if any run up too tall, nip off the tops.

AcHiMENES, of the different species, should be potted off, and more bulbs
put in for a succession.

Pansies, in pots, will now need a shifl into a larger size. Seeds may
be planted now, and those sown in January will be sufficiently large to pot
off. Plants in beds, in the open air, or in frames, should be uncovered as
soon as tlie weather becomes warm.

Ranunculuses may yet be planted, coverhig the beds with frames, to
keep out frost and heavy rains.

Verbenas may have another shift into larger pots, if large specimens
are wanted. Sow seeds now for new varieties.

Gloxinias and Gesneras should be potted off now, and be placed in a
hot bed to give them a good start.

Gladioluses, for early blooming, may now be potted.

Tuberoses may now be potted and placed in a hot bed, to push them
into growth.

Begonias should now be propagated from cuttings.

Orange and Lemon Trees may now be grafted.

Salvias and Scarlet Geraniums should be propagated for bedding
out in summer.

Clerodendrons should now be started into growth, placing them in tlie
warmest part of the house.

Petunias, of choice kinds, should now be increased by cuttings. Sow
seeds now for producing new varieties.

Ten Week Stocks, Phlox Drummondii, Brachycome, Nemophila,
Didiscus cserulea, and other choice and rare annuals, should now be sown
in pans and forwarded in the hot bed.

Carnations and Picotees, in frames, should be aired in fine weather.
Seeds may be sown now, in pans, in hot beds.

Hyacinth and Tulip Beds may be partially uncovered the last of the
month.

Japan Lilies, potted in January, will require to be shifted into larger
pots this month.

GuAVAS may now be repotted and placed in a warm part of the house to
give them a good start.

Hardy Roses may be safely pruned the last of the month.

Calystegia Pubescens should be repotted and started into growth this
month.

Hardy Herbaceous Plants should be partially uncovered as soon as
all severe frosts are over.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTURE-

APRIL, 1850.

ORIGINAL COiMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. Pohnaise Method of Heating Greenhouses and
Hothouses. By R. B. Leuchaks, Clifton Gardens, near
Baltimore.

Among the many subjects connected with gardening, that
are hobby-horse like, ridden to death by theorists, amateurs
and practicals, it is somewhat astonishing that the heating of
hothouses, — a subject more prolific of controversy and dis-
cussion than any other connected with exotic horticulture,^ —
scarcely ever finds a corner in any periodical in the country.
Hothouses are every where being erected ; hundreds of indi-
viduals are seeking information every where, how to heat
them most economically and efficiently, but not succeeding
in their endeavors to obtain the requisite knowledge, they
send for the tradesman in the neighborhood, who has been
in the habit of doing this kind of work, who probably never
saw a hothouse in his life, and knows as little about heating
one properly, as he does about the practical details of Horti-
cultural Science. However, he has fitted up stoves of various
patterns, — warmed churches, public buildings, (fee, and of
course, he knows all about the matter ; a matter which, I
may add, has put the most eminent practical and scientific
men to their wits' end for the last few years in England.
Nevertheless he knows all about it, — or what amounts to the
same thing, — he succeeds in making the employer believe
so. He accordingly recommends what he knows best about,
however unsuitable it may be to the place and purpose

VOL. XVI. NO. IV. 19

146 Polmaise Method of Heathig Hothouses.

for which it is intended ; but his advice is taken, and the
consequence is, an apparatus is fitted up as unsuitable to the
house as can well be imagined, displaying as much igno-
rance of the principles of heating, as the most enthusiastic
experimental novice could desire ; a double cost in the be-
ginning, and often a triple cost for the rest of its existence ;
and the gentleman must have more than ordinary patience,
and the enthusiasm of a true lover of exotic horticulture, if
he does not abandon the pursuit, as a toy far too expensive
for the small amount of pleasure it affords. [Too true. — Ed.]

The essentials for heating churches are as different from
those of hothouses, as the purposes for which these structures
are applied ; and though the former are generally larger than
the latter, it must be considered that the same apparatus that
would warm a hothouse in a frosty night, would heat a
church ten times the size, if from no other cause than the
escape of heated air, and the continual radiation of heat
from the glass. Again, the defects of an apparatus may be
imperceptible in a public building, which, in a hothouse,
would soon prove destructive to tender plants ; of this fact
any person may very soon convince himself. And every
gardener is aware, that plants are more susceptible than ani-
mals of the effects of heat and air, moisture and aridity : so
much is this the case, that, with many kinds of plants, suc-
cess in their culture, and even in keeping them alive, depends
upon certain minute points of practice, which are often diffi-
cult to discover, — and when discovered, frequently as difficult
at all times to pursue.

To discuss the various merits and defects of the numerous
systems of heating, brought before the public of late years,
would require a volume, as huge in its dimensions as Loudon's
celebrated Encyclopasdia of Gardening, and that great wri-
ter's herculean powers of compilation. My purpose, for the
present, at least, is only to make a few remarks on a system
which has created more sensation in Europe, than any thing
which has been brought before the gardening public for the
last hundred years, — which has been commented on in the
English journals, nearly as much as the potato disease, — which

Polmaise Method of Heating Hothouses. 147

has been written up and written down, week after week, by
men of all professions, trades and pursuits, from the peer
down to the peasant, and turned half the gardeners of Eng-
land into experimentalists ; and which, after all, is but an old
system with a new name. The cognomen which it bears,
in its new form, is that which I have placed at the head of
this paper.

The principle upon which this so-called new method
works, — and even the system itself, — is not new. In fact,
this method of heating in various modifications, dates from an
earlier period than any other with which we are acquainted,
and is applied in a more practical and perfect form, to the
warming of many public and private buildings in this country.
The very general adoption of this method, however, does
not in the smallest degree, give us a warrant against its de-
fects. It has been satisfactorily ascertained, that air heated
to a temperature of three hundred degrees, becomes so de-
prived of its organic matter, and otherwise so changed in its
properties, as to be unfit for the sustenance of either animal
or vegetable life, in a state of healthy and vigorous develope-
ment, for any length of time ; and hence, it is obvious that
the admission of a current of highly heated air into a dwell-
ing room, or into a well glazed hothouse — if no means are
taken to restore its original properties, — must in a short time
become sensibly injurious to the animals and vegetables that
are compelled to breath it.

The extravagant statements or rather m«s-statements, that
have frequently appeared in the Gardeners^ Chronicle of
London, respecting this mode of heating, by its editor, and
others under his influence, have misled many in this country,
who are totally ignorant of what the system in reality is,
and have had no opportunity of learning the arguments that
have been brought against it ; ushered into the world under
the alluring clap-trap of economy, — and lauded to the skies
by its promoters, for its heating power and adaptability, —
many have been deceived, by adopting the method called
Polmaise, until dearly purchased experience, — the best of all
teachers, — taught them the worthlessness of the system, and

148 Pohnaise Method of Heating Hothouses.

showed them the reality of the broken reed upon which
they had rehed. Numerous instances have come under my
own observation, and a large orange house in the gardens
where I am this moment writing, presents a notable example
of this fact ; while the plants within it, sufficiently attests its
effects.

In conversing on the subject of heating, I have often been
asked, what is Polmaise ? Before I say any thing more about
it, therefore, it may be proper for me to describe what Pol-
maise really is, and wherein it differs from other systems of
heating with hot air, which are more ancient than England
itself, and were in use long before the christian era.

When this method w^as first brought before the public, un-
der its new fangled name, I went to Polmaise to examine
its working, and learn its details, with the determination of
adopting it ; I found the whole apparatus exactly as follows : —
A hot air furnace, (i. e., a furnace where the air is heated in
its passage over a red-hot plate with which the furnace is cov-
ered) was placed behind the back wall, about the centre of the
house ; immediately opposite the furnace, there was an aper-
ture in the wall, for the admission of the heated air into the
house ; directly in front and above this aperture, a woollen
cloth was suspended, which was kept constantly moist, by
a number of woollen skeins or threads, depending from a
small gutter, or naiTow trough, containing water, which is
fixed on a frame of wood, supporting both the gutter and the
cloth, the lower edge of the latter reaching the ground : the
cloth is made thicker in the middle, in order to equalize the
heat, an arrangement which was indispensable ; for if the
cloth was of an equal thickness all over, the centre of the
house would have been heated to a scorching degree, while
the ends were comparatively cold. By means of drains un-
der the floor, the fireplace was supplied with air, from inside
the house, part of which is used for the combustion of fuel ;
the rest passes over the heated plate, and enters the house
through the aperture above mentioned.

Such then, is the real system of Polmaise heating, as ori-
ginally applied at Polmaise, and which sprung out of the fol-

Polmaise Method of Heating Hothouses. 149

lowing circumstance : — A church in the neighborhood of Pol-
maise, (a small country seat, near Sterling, in Scotland,) was
heated by a hot air furnace, similar to those used in warming
dwellinghouses, &c., in this country. The gardener examined
it, and thought it a good plan to warm his hothouses ; ac-
cordingly he applied something of the kind to heat his vinery,
arranged as I have described above. The thing was entirely
new to the worthy gardener, as well as to his employer, Mr.
Murray, who sent an account of it to Dr. Lindley, the editor
of the Gardeners^ Chronicle. The Dr. extolled the system
to the skies, and induced various individuals to adopt it, and
those who took the unpardonable liberty of judging its mer-
its, from experience, he straightway denounced as interested
or dishonest men. The gardening community arose in arms,
and waged war against their theoretical foes, and not one
single gardener of note, in England, was found to support the
sinking reputation of Polmaise. At last the so-called origi-
nators were confounded at the buzz they had excited in the
practical hive. No controversy (connected with gardening)
was ever carried on with so much virulence, and no system
has been so severely tested to prove its merits and defects.
Gardeners, amateurs and all, entered the arena of experiment,
discussion and controversy; still its promoters would not
flinch from their original position. The colimms of the
Chronicle were under Dr. Lindley's command, and right or
wrong, he would support it, without however adducing one
single argument in its favor, — except ripe grapes in Septem-
ber,— a period, forsooth, when grapes would ripen without
artificial heat at all. Yet its cheapness and simplicity were
its ignus fatuus of attraction, and for several successive win-
ters many, blinded by the misrepresentations of its ad-
vocates, went to work, Polmaising their greenhouses, &c.,
tearing down their furnaces and flues, and converting them
into hot air stoves, and drains, and other appurtenances of
Polmaise. Yet, after a short trial, and a good deal of plant
killing, they one and all abandoned the system with disgust.
Now it appears very strange, that while Dr. Lindley was ad-
vocating the merits of Polmaise, with the whole power of

150 Polmaise Method of Heating Hothouses.

his pen and influence, he never had one erected at the Hor-
ticultural Societies' garden, where he had unlimited control ;
Something of the kind, I believe was tried in a small pit, but
the results were not given to the public, and those who
erected them by his recommendation, were obliged to ac-
knowledge them unqualified failures.

Polmaise has been improved and modified in many ways
since its introduction under that name. It will be seen that
the only difference between it and the ordinary hot air stoves,
consists in the air being supplied from the interior of the
house, while in the stoves generally used, the air to be heated,
is drawn from the external atmosphere. Now, the air, pass-
ing over a highly heated surface and entering a house, of any
kind, at a high temperature, is bad enough, but the same vol-
ume of air, heated over and over again, is a hundred times
worse, so that the supposed advantage of Polmaise, is in re-
ality a defect, and one too, of sufficient importance to con-
demn its adoption ; for no water-tank contrivance has yet had
the effect of restoring the air thus heated, to its original purity
and healthfulness. And hence, the more recent modifiers of
Polmaise, have thrown this advantage aside and reverted to
the common method of hot air healing, which, applied to
hothouses, is quite as expensive as smoke flues in the be-
ginning, and triply expensive in the end, besides being far
more troublesome to work. The late Mr. Meek, of Holms-
dale, — who, upon the death of Mr. Murray, of Polmaise,
took up his mantle and a double portion of his spirit, — con-
trived a modification of the system, perhaps more scientific
and perfect in its arrangements than any of the others, but
not so simple as some of them. For instance, Lewis or Ken-
dall's, a plan of which is given in Allen's Treatise on the
Vine. And most assuredly, a more bungling aflfair for heating
a hothouse, — and one displaying more ignorance of the prin-
ciples by which air is heated and diffused — never was erected.
When applied in conjunction with an apparatus already heat-
ing a house, it may prove of some considerable service ; in
fact, the conduction of all the heat generated by the com-
bustion of fuel into the house, without loss or detention, is

Polmaise Method of Heating Hothouses. 151

an important point in any heating apparatus, and ought if
possible to be secured.

I will just advert to another argument of the promoters of
Polmaise, and this is considered by them the most important
of all, viz.: its capability of creating a motion in the atmos-
phere of the house. Any system of heating by hot air, pos-
sesses theoretically some advantages, over other methods,
where the surface of radiation is larger. Strictly examining
the matter however, we find that this theory, however plau-
sible it may appear, has scarcely a practical foundation. As
far as regards its influence and utility in a hothouse, we
know very well that currents are created by the rarefaction
of air, or the expansion of its particles by heat. But, how-
ever beneficial a motion in the atmosphere may be, and I
will not dispute the fact, we know also, and that too by ex-
perience, that the more we increase the unlimited action of
this law in the atmosphere of a hothouse, the more injurious
it becomes to vegetable and animal life. If it be desirable
to create a torrid tornado in a hothouse, the apertures of in-
gress must admit a current of air heated to a degree that
would quickly contaminate the whole volume, and render
it incapable of sustaining either animal or vegetable existence.

The motion given to the atmosphere of a hothouse, by a
current of heated air, depends upon the temperature to which
it is heated, and not upon the quantity or volume of air pass-
ing over the heating body. The motion created, will, there-
fore be greater, in proportion as the aperture is diminished,
and the temperature of the current increased. The equaliza-
tion of the internal volume, however, will not be in propor-
tion to the heat of the current with the latter, but to the
internal and external surfaces of radiation, so that a current
of highly heated air, entering a house, will not equalize the
temperature of the internal atmosphere ; in fact, some parts
of it will not be influenced by the current at all ; this I have
proved by actual experiment. But, strictly speaking, the
atmosphere of a house artificially heated, is always in motion ;
it must necessarily be so, by virtue of the law already re-
ferred to ; and we find on examination that it is continually

152 Pomological Notices.

in a state of motion. The motion produced by a large surface
of radiation, by hot water pipes, or common flues, may be
imperceptible to the casual observer, but it is not the less
real ; and as the amount of heat diffused is just equal to the
amount carried off by radiation from the glass, (providing the
internal atmosphere be kept at a given temperature,) so must
this imperceptible motion continue as long as any difference
exists betwixt the internal and external atmospheres.

There have some other, though less important, argu-
ments been used to support the sinking reputation of Pol-
maise for the heating of plant houses ; and as drowning men
eagerly catch at straws, it is not surprising that its theoretical
advocates should clutch at some vague and shadowy princi-
ple of science, just to keep the subject which they have ag-
itated, before the public, and probably to gain themselves a
little notoriety. The learned editor who threw down the
gauntlet to the opposers of Polmaise, has more than once
had his theoretical whimsies exploded by the stubborn facts
of practical experience ; and, as many persons in this country
eagerly follow any crotchety notion they read in the Gar-
deners^ Chronicle, taking the reputation of its editor as a
guarantee of its truth, I purpose to devote a few papers to
this subject, drawn from the best of all sources, — practical
experience.

Clifton Gardens, near Baltimore, Feb., 1850.
( To he continued. )

Art. II. Pomological Notices; or Notices respecting new
and superior Fruits, worthy of general cultivation. By
the Editor.

Owing to the unpropitious season for fruit last year, we
are not enabled to render our pomological notices as interest-
ing as usual ; with the exception of the Beurre Langelier,
and two or three others, scarcely a new Pear fruited last
year, in the numerous amateur and nursery collections in the

Pomological Notices. 153

neighborhood of Boston. The prospect now is, that the sea-
son of 1850, will be as noted for its abundant crop, as that of
1849 was for its scarcity ; and the information our pomo-
logical friends are deprived of this year, they must hope to
be supplied with in the next : we can promise them, should
no untoward circumstances occur, a fund of information upon
a great number of new, as well as older, varieties, which
will fruit in our collection this year.

Hegerman. — This is the name given to a new seedling
pear, specimens of which were exhibited at the North Ameri-
can Pomological Convention, at Syracuse, N. Y., last Sep-
tember, and briefly mentioned, in our notice of the report of
that convention, in our last number, (p. 112.) Subsequently,
we were favored with a box of the pears, from the original
tree, by C. R. Lincoln, Esq., Editor of the Flushing Jour-
nal, who informs us it was produced by Mr. Peter Nortrand,
of Flushing, and is supposed to be " a hybrid, between the
Seckel and Virgalieu," (White Doyenne.) It greatly resem-
bles the Buff"um, so much so, that when we saw it at Syra-
cuse, we thought it identical ; but upon a trial of the several
specimens sent us, we came to the conclusion, that though
very much like the Buffum, it was quite distinct. We made
a drawing and description, which we shall give in a future
number. In size it is rather below medium ; form, obovate,
regular, with a dull, yellow skin, beautifully shaded with red,
and with a high-flavored, sugary, and melting flesh ; stem
short. Ripe the early part of September.

Canandaigua. — Under the name of Catherine pear, a very
handsome, and excellent variety was exhibited at the Con-
gress of Fruit Growers, in New York, which we noticed
at p. 36. Since then, it has been fully described and
figured, by Mr. Barry, in the Genesee Farmer, under the
name of Canandaigua, given to it by the committee on seed-
ling fruits. Mr. Barry states, that its origin is similar to that
of the Swan's Orange, and involved in the same obscurity.
All that is known of it is, that it came from Connecticut, as

VOL. XVI. NO, IV. 20

154 Pomological Notices.

long ago as 1806, when scions were brought from that State,
by Judge Atwater, of Canandaigua Size medium ; form
irregular pyramidal ; skin fair, pale yellow ; stem rather long ;
flesh white, fine, melting and buttery, saccharine, high fla-
vored, and excellent. Ripe in September.

Tea. — Under this name a very handsome pear was ex-
hibited at New York, from New Haven, Conn. It so much
resembled the White Doyenne, both in taste and appearance,
that the members of the Congress who tasted it, pronounced
it that fine old pear. But, from what we can learn from
our correspondent, S. D, Pardee, Esq., it would seem, how-
ever great the similarity of the two, to be quite distinct ; as
the White Doyenne cracks, and is worthless, where the trees
are growing in the same garden as the Tea, which invariably
produces fair and excellent fruit. Mr. Pardee has kindly
promised to look up the history of the tree, and ascertain,
if possible, its origin. Size, medium ; form, roundish obo-
vate ; skin, yellow, tinted with red ; flesh, melting, juicy
rich, sugary, high flavored, and excellent. Ripe, the last of
September.

The following account of several varieties of pears, some of
them quite new, we find in the Gardener's Chronicle^ com-
piled by Mr. R. Thompson, from the " Bulletin de la Societe
d' Horticultural Practique, du Rhone, for 1849." Several of
the varieties we have already noticed, or briefly described ;
but as showing the state of Pomological information, even in
France, we copy it entire, adding a few notes, in course : —

This contains descriptions of many old and new sorts pre-
sented for exhibition ; and as these descriptions appear to
have been carefully made, by M. C. Fortune Willermoz, the
following extracts will probably be acceptable to those inter-
ested in the cultivation of pears :

Ananas. — Middle-sized, short-pyriform, surface somewhat
uneven ; stalk thick ; about half an inch in length, oblique :
skin smooth, soft, of a golden yellow, with reddish dots ;
flesh pale yellow, very fine, melting, full of sugary juice, per-
fumed. Season, end of September, and beginning of Octo-

Pomological Notices. 155

ber. This was also exhibited under the name of Bergamotte
Cadette.

[This is, undoubtedly, identical with Henry the IV, which
is received from France, under the name of Ananas.] — Ed.

Angora. — " Syn. Belle Angevine, Faux Bolivar, Royal
d'Angleterre, Comtesse ou Beaute de Tervueren, Grosse de
Bruxelles, Dachesse de Berri d' Hiver, Tres Grosse de Brux-
elles et Lyons.'' — [The description appears to apply to the
Uvedale's St. Germain. The Angora Pear, said to have been
brought from the Levant, by Tournefort, has proved to be
the Catillac]

Belle Epine Dumas. — Syn. Epine de Rochoir, Beurre
Rochoir, erroneously, at Lyons. This must not be con-
founded with the Epine Dumas, of which the Due de Bor-
deaux is a syn. — Fruit very large, pyriform, somewhat
turbinate ; skin smooth and fine, golden yellow on the one
side, and of a vermillion color on the other, dotted with
reddish brown, russeted about the footstalk ; the latter is
about an inch in length, bent, implanted in a small irregular
cavity ; eye small, in a shallow, evenly-formed cavity ; flesh
pale citron, very fine, buttery, containing a very agreeable,
sugared juice. Season, commencement of October. The
tree requires a rich, substantial soil.

[This description answers exactly for the Epine Dumas of
our collections, and we have no doubt of its being the
same.] — Ed.

Bergamotte Edouard Sageret. — Syn. Poire Sageret, No.
2, Poire Edouard. — Fruit middle-size, pyriform ; flesh coarse,
rather gritty round the core, tender, but not melting, sweet
and perfumed. Season, end of August,

Bergamotte Lucrative. — (not Buerre Lucratif.) Syn.
Bergamotte Fieve. — Fruit very large, roundish, flattened.
Classed among those of first-rate quality. Ripe in Septem-
ber.

[No doubt the Belle Lucrative : trees received by us, from
M. Jamin, have so proved.] — Ed.

Bergamotte Sageret. — Syn. Poire Sageret, No. L — Fruit
middle-sized, roundish. Flesh white, very fine, melting,

156 Pomolo^ical Notices

is'

sugary. Ripens in November and December, and when
grown on a standard, will keep even till February or March.

Beurre' Goubault. — (This must not be confounded with
Doyenne Goubault.) — Fruit middle-sized, almost round; skin
pale green, passing to a yellowish green, sprinkled with brown
dots. Stalk slender, about half an inch in length. Eye large,
open, slightly sunk. Flesh fine, half melting, and buttery, per-
fumed, gritty near the core. Season, beginning of September.

Beurre' Gris d' Hiver Nouveau. — (Bavay.) — Syn. Beurre
Gris Superieur, Beurre de Lucon, Beurre Gris d' Hiver, of Bi-
vort, St. Michael d' Hiver. — Fruit very large, oval, flat at the
ends. Stalk short, about four-tenths of an inch in length, thick ;
eye small, slightly sunk in a small, regularly formed hollow ;
skin shining, greenish-yellow, tinged with red next the sun.
Flesh white, firm, juicy, and of a very agreeable flavor ; it is
sometimes a little gritty, when the tree is planted in a strong
soil. Season, December and January. The tree is vigorous
and extremely fertile. We think this variety ought to be
classed among the Doyennes, rather than among the Beurres.

Beurre' Lefe'vre. — Syn. Beurre de Mortefontaine. — Fruit
very large ; color, a mixture of brown, green, and red ; but
its quality does not correspond with its beauty, and it soon
becomes mealy. It ripens in October.

Beurre' Moiret. — Syn. Beurre Moire. — Fruit large, pyra-
midal, yellowish-green, a little tinged with red, next the sun,
and sprinkled with brown dots. Stalk about an inch in
length, of medium thickness. Eye slightly sunk. We have
not had an opportunity of examining its flesh, but we have
been assured, that it is of first-rate quality. Ripens in the
end of September. The tree is vigorous and fertile.

[Has not come up to its foreign reputation with us.J — JSd.

Beurre' Q,ue'telet. — Fruit middle-sized, broadest trans-
versely. Stalk, rather more than half an inch in length,
thick, fleshy, deep brown, implanted in a shallow, regular
cavity. Eye, middle-sized, irregular, placed in an evenly-
formed, shallow basin. The flesh is said to be melting,
buttery, and of first-rate quality, ripening in the end of Oc-
tober.

Pomological Notices. 157

Beurre' St. Louis. — This variety has been introduced to
Lyons, by Prof. Jourdan, a very eminent pomologist. It
bears considerable resemblance to the Delices d' Hardenpont.

Beurre' St. Nicolas. — Fruit, large, obtusely pyramidal.
Stalk, thick, fleshy, curved, about eight-tenths of an inch in
length ; eye, very large, placed in a shallow cavity. Skin,
smooth, shining, golden-yellow, dotted with brown, red next
the sun. Flesh, pale citron, fine, very melting, with abun-
dance of sugary juice, agreeably perfumed. This beautiful
and excellent pear ripens at the end of September.

Be'zi des Ve'te'rans. — (Van Mons.) — Fruit, large, turbi-
nate, or oval. Stalk, rather more than an inch in length,
yellow, very slender, oblique. Eye open, in a shallow cavity ;
segments of the calyx erect. Skin greenish yellow, with
small russet patches, tinged and streaked with light red next
the sun. Flesh pale citron, tolerably fine, melting, contain-
ing abundance of sugary juice, very agreeably perfumed.
Ripe in October and November, and will even keep later.

Beurre' des Charneuses. — Syn. Fondante des Char-
neuses, by corruption, Beurre, or Fondante des Carmes. —
Fruit large, turbinate, rounded at the eye, diminishing, and
slightly bent towards the stalk ; the latter is about three
quarters of an inch in length, thick, oblique, yellow. Skin
greenish yellow, sprinkled with numerous brown dots. Flesh
pale citron, traversed by some small greenish filaments, melt-
ing, buttery, with abundant juice, sweet, and very agreeably
perfumed.

Bonne d' Eze'e, not Bonne des Zees. — Syn. Belle et
Bonne de Zee (d'Albret,) — Fruit very handsome, oblong,
obtuse. Stalk three-fourths of an inch in length, very thick,
yellowish brown with grey dots. Eye large, placed in a
regularly formed, wide, but shallow depression. Skin of a
fine yellow color, relieved with brown and green dots. Flesh
while, tolerably fine, when cut permitting the escape of a
very abundant, sugary juice. [According to M. Jamin, it
ripens in September.]

[The Belle et Bonne de Zee has proved to be identical
with the Belle Epine Dumas in our collection, received from

158 Pomological Notices.

Mr. Rivers, Bonne des Zees, received from M. Jamin and
Mr. Rivers, is, without doubt, the same as this: the descrip-
tion is precisely like it. — Ed.^

Catinka. — (Esperin.) — Fruit middle-sized or large, irreg-
ularly oval, turbinate, tapering towards the stalk, which is
slender, an inch and a half in length, reddish brown, with a
small, fleshy projection on one side, at its insertion. Eye
regularly formed ; segments of the calyx short. Skin light
green, changing to greenish yellow, at the maturity of the
fruit, sprinkled with numerous small brown dots, and washed
with carmine red next the sun. Flesh white, tolerably fine,
melting, and full of rich, sugary juice, with a Crassane flavor.
This handsome and excellent pear remains for six weeks, fit
for use in November and December. The tree is fertile and
very vigorous, even on the duince.

CoLMAR d' Aremberg. — Fruit large, or very large, turbi-
nate, flat at the eye, diminishing considerably towards the
stalk, which is short, thick, oblique, deeply inserted in a
cavity surrounded with projections. Eye very small in com-
parison with the size of the fruit, placed in a deep cavity.
Skin green, changing to golden yellow, at the maturity of
the fruit, relieved with numerous russet specks and some
greenish dots. Flesh white, tolerably fine, melting, with a
very abundant sugary juice, delicately and agreeably per-
fumed. Ripe in November and December ; it is necessary to
seize the moment of its maturity ; if taken too soon, it is
rather sharp, — too late, it is mealy and dry. One of the
fruits exhibited was upwards of fifteen inches in circumfer-
ence.

Wagener Apple. — This new apple, which has been
highly extolled for its excellence, is described, and beau-
tifully figured in the Transactions of the New York State
Agricultural Society, for 1848. It originated in Penn Yan,
Yates Co., N. Y., from seed carried there from Dutchess
county, as long ago as 1791. The parent tree is yet alive,
and produces " annually an abundant yield of beautiful and

Pomological Notices. 159

delicious fruit." Size medium; form roundish ; color deep
glossy red, striped with splashes of a lighter hue ; flesh yel-
lowish white, fine, crisp, juicy, vinous, subacid, sprightly, and
delicious. Ripe from October to May.

KiNGSLEY. — A new variety described and figured in the
Report of the iSorth American Pomological Convention, at
Syracuse, by Dr. H. Wendell, of Albany. It is a fine, late
keeping apple, " as fresh and free from defect on the 10th of
June, as when taken from the tree," It originated on the
farm of Mr. Kingsley, Pittsford, Monroe county, N. Y., and
the original tree produced thirty bushels of fruit in 1848.
Size medium ; form nearly globular ; color dark yellow, with
pink stripes and splashes, which diverge in every direction
from the stem end ; Fesh fine, melting, with a pleasant sub-
acid, rich, and abundant juice. Ripe from November to
July.

Summer Bellflower. — A seedling produced by Mr. J. R.
Comstock, of Washington, Dutchess county, N. Y., who
informs us that it was raised from seeds of the Esopus
Spitzenberg. It first fruited about five years ago. The tree
is a vigorous grower, and has borne a good crop every year.
In general form it nearly resembles the Williams' but the
skin is of a fine, clear yellow ; flesh white, fine, and tender,
with rich subacid, high-flavored, and abundant juice. Ripe
in August.

Beef-steak. — A very superior autumn apple was sent to us,
in 1848, under this name, which proved such a hearty mouth-
ful, that we have not ventured to suggest an alteration of
its " inelegant" title, as it may be considered by some
pomologists. It originated in Wilmington, Mass., very near
the spot where the Baldwin sprung up from seed ; and is as
superior as a fall apple, as the former is as a winter one. In
size it is about medium ; of roundish form, with a yellow
skin, nearly, or quite covered with brilliant red, in stripes and
splashes; flesh yellowish, fine, crisp, and tender; with a
peculiarly high-flavored, rich, and abundant juice. Ripe in
October and November.

160 Pruning the Currant.

Art. III. HoiD to Prune the Currant. By Robert Thomp-
son, Superintendent of the Orchard and Kitchen Garden
Department of the London Horticultural Society.

In our last number, we gave Mr. Thompson's remarks on
the pruning of the gooseberry. We now have the pleasure
of presenting another excellent article by him, detailing, in
the same clear and practical manner, the proper mode of
pruning the currant.

In one of our earlier volumes, (VIII. p. 324,) we gave a
long article upon the cultivation of the currant, in which we
particularly alluded to the proper system of pruning, and em-
braced the opportunity to urge upon cultivators the great
importance of more care in what is generally considered
a very simple process, — namely, the pruning of the plants.
There can be very little doubt, that the inferior quality of
nearly all the currants exposed for sale, in our markets, is
mainly owing to a want of a knowledge of the proper mode
of pruning the bushes.

Indeed, it is rare to see a plantation of currants judiciously
managed. In the place of small, compact, stocky plants,
kept within a moderate compass, by yearly shortening of the
shoots and renewal of the wood, we too often find over-
grown, straggling bushes, with numerous branches of old
wood, three or four feet long, not larger than a pipe-stem,
bare of fruit-spurs for more than two-thirds their length, and
so weak as to be incapable of producing strong annual
shoots, so necessary to the production of fine fruit. When
once the plants become so degenerated, they can only be
brought back by heading them in very short, even to the loss
of the crop, for one season, so as to bring up a growth of
strong new wood ; afterwards, the pruning may be performed
as Mr. Thompson directs.

We are gratified to state, that since the publication of the
article on the gooseberry, in our last, the Massachusett's Hor-
ticultural Society has decided to include among its pros-
pective premiums, for new seedling fruits, one for the goose-

Pruning the Currant. 161

berry and one for the currant, of the respective amounts of
TWENTY FIVE DOLLARS cach, as will bc scen by the report in
another page. These prizes, we doubt not, will be the means
of inducing amateur cultivators to try experiments, with a
view to the growth of superior varieties; and we may antici-
pate the production of new seedlings more valuable than any
we now possess.

In the article before alluded to, we urged upon cultivators
more attention to the production of seedling currants, con-
fident that, with the improvement which has already been
made in the strawberry, and other small fruits, there could be
no reason why the same success should not follow similar
endeavors with the currant ; and we trust, as the field is open,
that our own cultivators may be able to achieve that which
has been so long a desideratum, with all lovers of this valua-
ble fruit. — Ed.

The Currant Tree. — Under every mode of training, the
red Currant, and also the white, require to be regularly
pruned every year. In rearing the young plants, the first
thing to be aimed at is a clear stem, about five inches in
length, free from suckers. In preparing the cutting, care
should be taken to remove all the buds on the portion in-
tended to be inserted in the ground, otherwise many of them
would form suckers, injurious to the plants, and troublesome
to displace effectually. In some cases, cuttings can be ob-
tained, long enough to afford at once the proper length of
stem ; but when such cannot be had, when the cutting is
altogether too short, or proves so after the necessary removal
of the imperfectly formed wood at top, then three buds above
the surface of the ground will be sufficient. These will
generally produce three shoots, all of which may be allowed
to grow during the first summer after the cutting has been
planted, in order to assist in forming roots. Supposing the
plant is intended for the open ground, and that it is to be
trained in the usual way, open in the centre ; then, in au-
tumn, after the leaves have fallen, two out of the three shoots
which the plant has made should be cut off, and the third,

VOL. XVI. NO. IV. 21

162

Pj-'uninff the Currant.

selected as the most eligible for a stem, should be short-
ened, so that the third bud below the cut may be five
inches above the ground. Three
shoots will generally be produced
the following summer. In au-
tumn the plants will require to
be planted out where they are
to remain, and at the same time
the shoots should be cut back to
about four inches, taking care to
cut above buds pointing outwards.
We have now a stem five inches
high, and three branches diverg-
ing from it, each of them shortened
to about four inches. Two shoots
should be encouraged from each
of these three, so that in autumn
the plant will have six shoots,
corresponding with the ultimate
number of branches necessary.
All other shoots must be spurred
to within an inch of their bases.
The six shoots selected for leaders
should be cut back so as to leave
them from four to six inches long ;
and, like those of the former sea-
son, they should be cut to buds
pointing outwards. At every fu-
ture winter pruning the termuial
shoots of the six branches should
be shortened to between four and
six inches long, according to their ^^^ s ^Ae Currant Tree.
strength. When the branches „ a a a, Wood buds.

nearly attain the intended height, ^ ^ Fruit buds

■^ ^ ^ c c c, Clusters termed fruit spurs ;

the terminals maybe shortened to they consist chiefly of fruit buds,

two or three buds. With regard ^ut amongst tliem, there are

° generally, some wood buds

to the lateral shoots, they must which produce small shoots.

Prunins^ the Currant. 163

'to

all be cut to within an inch of the old wood at every winter
pruning.

Some recommend summer pruning. In moderation it may
be advantageously performed. When the plants are lux-
uriant, and shoots are likely to overcrowd the centre, the tops
of such shoots may be cut off in June. But it must be ob-
served that if no shoots were allowed to grow excepting
those necessary to be retained at the winter pruning, the
plants would, in consequence, be less vigorous in the follow-
ing season ; for the more leaves the more roots, and the
greater the quantity of the latter the more abundant will be
the supply of nourishment.

Instead of the open bush-form, Currants may be grown
with a single upright stem ; and in this way they occupy
very little space, and yet produce good bunches of fruit,
which are not liable to be spoiled by wet.

When Currants are intended to be trained against a wall,
they should be planted three feet apart, and a strong shoot
trained upright for a stem. This should be shortened to six
inches, and the two uppermost shoots trained horizontally
right and left. From these, four upright shoots should be
trained, so that the distance between them may be nine
inches. In order that these may not run up without being
sufficiently furnished with fruit spurs, they should be short-
ened to six inches, and every year, at the winter pruning, the
upright terminal shoots of the branches should be shortened
according to their strength, shorter if weak, and if strong
they should not be left longer than is consistent with their
breaking into spurs not more than six inches apart. The
laterals may have their points cut off, annually, in June, and
cut nearly close to the old wood at every winter pruning.
Various other modes of training may be adopted, but the
same principles of pruning are generally applicable, namely,
the shortening of the leading shoots and spurring in the
laterals as above directed. The red and white Currants may
be grafted on each other with good effect, as regards con-
trast of colors.

164 Pomological Gossip.

Art IV. Pomological Gossip.

The Three Best Varieties of Strawberries. — It will
be recollected, by many of our readers, especially those inter-
ested in the cultivation of fine strawberries, that we stated
some years ago, (1845, vol. XI. p. 294,) that of all the new
varieties which had been produced up to that period, we had
found '■'■ only four which could be commended for general
cultivation." These were the Early Virginia, Hovey's Seed-
ling, Boston Pine, and English Wood. This statement
greatly surprised our old correspondent and champion of the
strawberry culture, at the West, Mr. Longworth, who was
induced to ask, " What will English cultivators, who have
raised so many new seedlings, say to this ? " Again, in our
volume for 1848, (XIV., p. 364,) when noticing the ex-
hibition of a great number of kinds, at Rochester, N. Y., we
remarked, that in the vicinity of Boston " all of them had been
discarded as loorthless, except the Early Virginia, (called the
Large Early Scarlet,) Hovey's Seedling, and Boston Pine."

We were not aware that Mr, Longworth had noticed the
latter statement, until a few days ago, in looking over the
Transactions of the New York State Agricultural Society,
for 1848, we observed a long article on the strawberry from
his pen, from which we copy the following : —

" I discover, from Hovey's Magazine, that they have but
three varieties of strawberries, in Boston, worthy of culti-
vation : the Early Scarlet, Boston Pine, and Hoveys' Seed-
ling. The Early Scarlet we do not deem worthy of cultivation.
We have staminates that are better bearers, — the fruit larger,
and equal in quality to the Early Scarlet. The Boston Pine
is also staminate. and does not, with ordinary cultivation,
with us, average one fourth of a crop of perfect fruit.
Hovey's Seedling bears larger fruit than any we cultivate."

Our only object in noticing this, is to show Mr. Long-
worth, that we did not make the statements above, without
due thought and deliberation, after some little experience in

Pomological Gossip. 165

the culture of the strawberry ; for, he has probably seen,
although the official report has not been published, that the
Congress of Fruit Growers, at New York, out of all the great
number of strawberries which had been fully proved, up to
1849, only recommended three for general cultivation.
These were the Early Virginia, Boston Pine, and Hovey's
Seedling ; — the identical sorts we recommended five years
previous, and for doing which, we were accused by Mr.
Longworth and other cultivators, of a conceitedness and par-
tiality for our own seedlings, and a disparagement of those
produced by other cultivators. After the unanimous vote of
an assemblage of pomologists, from almost every state in the
Union, and the Canadas, establishing the value and superiority
of the very three varieties we so long ago recommended, we
trust our western friends, as well as others, nearer home,
will admit that their judgment is worth something, and that
we had no other motive in asserting the excellence of our
seedlings, but the intrinsic merits which characterize the
two varieties.

The Culture of the Plum, and the Destruction or
THE CuRcuLio. — lu our last, we copied some valuable infor-
mation on the plum, from the Report of the North American
Pomological Convention. The cultivation of the plum is
yearly receiving more attention, and could the ravages of the
Curiculio be easily prevented, the crop would soon be as
abundant as that of other fruits. It is gratifying to know-
that more attention is being directed to the habits of the
Curculio, and, we do not doubt, some more effective mode,
than any we now know, will be discovered, by which their
destructiveness will be greatly lessened. It cannot be de-
nied, however, that thus far, of all the plans suggested for
limiting their ravages, not one can claim so much merit as
that oi shaking them from the trees daily, during the whole
period, when they make their attacks upon the fruit. All
the barbarous plans of disfiguring a garden, by paving it with
bricks or stones, — making it a pig pen, or henery, — saturating
the soil with guano or salt, and numberless other modes, too
numerous to mention, suggested by those who are novices

166 Pomological Gossip.

in Horticulture, are of little or no value, compared with that
of shaking the trees, and catching the "rascals." The only
thing is to know the exact period when to commence and
leave off the operation alluded to, so as to save as much
labor as possible ; on this point we are pleased to state, that
an amateur, who spent a greater part of the last summer in
ascertaining the habits of the curculio, has promised us the
results of his investigations, which we hope to give in our
May number.

To cultivators who have trees just coming into bearing, or
new varieties, of which they wish to procure a few specimens
of fruit, when there is not sufficient to take the trouble to
shake the trees, the plan adopted by Mr. Wilson, of Essex
county, as detailed by him in the Transactions of the Essex
Agricultural Society, seems to us most excellent, and well
worthy of recommendation. It is as follows : —

" I will here mention a successful experiment for the pro-
tection of the plum against the curculio. Last year I made
two bags of old thin muslin, and drew them over two limbs,
about the time the fruit set. Within each of these bags I
saved a few beautiful plums, and not a plum did I save on
any other part of the tree. Taking courage at this good
success, I bought, last spring, a few yards of bonnet lining
which I made into bags according to the size of the limbs I
wished to cover. These I drew on the limbs of several trees,
some when the plums had set, and others when they were
in the blow ; for I found the enemy had made their appear-
ance while the trees were in bloom. Under each of these
bags I saved plums, apricots, and nectarines, upon limbs of
twelve different trees ; and these were the only ones I saved
this year. The first of August I removed the bags, the cur-
culio having disappeared. Some may think this would be
too expensive, but I think not. The muslin would last many
years ; and by training the trees, or the branches in the
right form, they might easily be covered, to the profit of the
firait-grower. Be this as it may, I have found it of great use
to me, as I have bought a variety of choice plum trees, from

Heliotrope ISouvcnir de Liege. 167

which I did not like to use buds aud grafts, until I had
proved the fruit. This 1 have accomplished. One small
branch, covered by a bag, measuring six and a half by nine
inches, contained twenty-one beautiful plums, hanging in
one solid cluster, causing the little limb to bend so much
beneath its weight, as to require a prop to support it. Upon
another tree, (the Moorpuck Apricot,) I saved eight Apricots,
under a very small bag. I am training some apricots and
other trees in the form of a fan, to make them the more con-
venient to be covered with the muslin."

We shall try this mode ourselves the coming season.

Art. V. Heliotrope Souvenir de Liege, and Descriptions of
Six new Cinerarias. By John Cadness, Commercial Gar-
dens, Flushing, L. I.

Heliotrope Souvenir de Liege. — This new plant has
now flowered in the Collection of Parsons & Co., Flushing,
N. Y., by whom it was imported the past summer, along
with two other new varieties, Grissau and Triomphe de
Liege : these last have not yet flowered.

Souvenir de Liege was sent us as a yellow flowered variety ;
it is a plant of stronger habit, and more erect growth than the
well known Var. intermedia, is more disposed to branch from
the main stem, each branch being terminated by a truss of
bloom ; leaves larger, deeply veined, and of a yellowish green
color ; the truss is not much larger, but broader and better
formed, stands well up, not so triangular, and the angles very
little reflexed, which gives the flower a better appearance ;
the flower is much larger, the tube of the corrolla mora open
and campanulate. The centre of the flower is bright yellow,
shaded with very pale purple, which, however, changes
nearly to white ; it also promises fail- to be a free bloomer ; it
cannot, perhaps, properly, be called yellow, although yellow
is the ground color, and it is very distinct and bright, and in
this respect, we cannot say, that it has come up to our ex-

168 Descriptions of Neio Cineraris.

pectations of its merits : however, under the circumstances,
it is somewhat difficult to speak with certainty, the plant
having been so recently introduced, and also having been a
good deal forced, for the purposes of propagation, &c., the
colors may not be so good as they ultimately may be ; the
form and size of the individual flower, and of the truss, is,
decidely, an improvement, and, from its habits, should it no^
prove more valuable for house purposes than intermedia, it
will certainly be most useful for bedding, in connection with
it, and Yoltairiainum ; its fragrance is much the same as in-
termedia.

DESCRIPTIONS OF SIX NEW CINERARIAS.

The Cineraria is now becoming a very populur plant in
England, and a great many new sorts have made their
appearance within the last few years, and if the price is any
index of the value of some of them, they should be very
good, for we see several advertised to be sent out this season,
at half a guinea each, a price quite unusual for a Cineraria.
The past summer, Messrs. Parsons, & Co., received six of the
best sorts, then out, in order to see what improvement had
been efl"ected in them, all of which have been in bloom for
a length of time this winter, and they are all Very good, and
have fully equalled our expectations ; I thought, therefore, a
description of them might be interesting to your readers.

Cineraria Axilla. — Petal, white, tipped with rich rosy
purple, very good habit, and profuse bloomer, and showy.

Cineraria Speciosa. — Fine crimson, something after the
manner of the old Waterhousiana, but richer color, larger and
better formed flower, and much better habit.

Cineraria Joan of Arc. — This is a most beautiful thing,
and very gay ; petal pure white, margined and tipped with
bright blue ; good form ; very small disc, and the flower
slightly cupped ; color, very bright ; good habit.

Cineraria Apollo. — Rich, deep, indigo blue ; good form ;
very dwarf habit, and great bloomer; the color very rich
and velvety.

Cineraria Resplendens. — This is one of the very finest

Remarks on Vaccinium Vitis-IdcB^a 169

self-colored ones out, of a rich, bright crimson color ; large,
well formed flower ; very small disc ; fine, robust habit, with
large, and well arranged truss ; color most brilliant.

Cineraria Beauty of Newington. — This is the best of
its class ; the flower is of full size, and fine form ; dark disc,
and very small, surrounded with white petals deeply mar-
gined with crimson, terminating at the points with crimson
purple ; the flower slightly cupped, good habit, and color
very rich and velvety.

These are all herbaceous sorts, and the four last named are
exceedingly good, and highly deserving of cultivation ; noth-
ing can exceed the richness and brilliancy of their colors.
Beauty of Newington is a great favorite in England, and is
considered the best of its class. Resplendens is also very
fine, and one I am particularly pleased with ; the form of the
flower is first rate, and the velvety richness and depth of its
color cannot be beaten. I think them very superior, and far
before all the sorts I have yet seen in cultivation. Their
habit has been much improved, as well as their flowers, and
they have lost much of that coarseness in foliage ; the truss
better formed ; their flower stems, strong and erect, and
without that loose, straggling habit.

The Cineraria makes a most beautiful exhibition plant, as
well as being one of the most useful plants we have for the
winter and spring, and should, I think, be more generally
cultivated. Their management is simple ; they bloom very
abundantly, and with a little management, a succession of
flowers may be kept up from December until June.

Flushing, L. /., Feb, 1850.

Art. VI. Some additional Remarks on Vaccinium Vitis-
Idce^a. By John Lewis Russell, Professor of Botany,
&c., to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

In a valuable communication from the pen of General H,
A. S. Dearborn, which appeared in the August number of

VOL. XVI. NO, IV. 22

170 Some Additional Remarks

this Magazine, for 1849, it is remarked, that this rare plant
has been detected " on a space of ground about thirty feet
long and twenty wide, on the summit of a hill," which was
covered " with it," and this spring, the whole area was
whitened with its delicate blossoms." Surprised, as you may
imagine, to learn that so remarkable a plant, as is the true
Cow-berry, should have been growing so near, and unnoticed
hitherto, I was led to repair to the spot indicated, and by so
doing, found, what I thought would be very possible, that
quite another, and by no means uncommon plant, had been
mistaken for it. On casual inspection, there is a resemblance ;
and several instances of such a mistake have occurred to my
knowledge, since the publication of my communication in
the number for July, 1849, of this Magazine.

I think, Mr. Editor, that you yourself spoke to me of a
gentleman, who was, in like manner, assured of a locality
well known to him, where the genuine Vaccinium Vitis-Idae^a
grew, and of which, under the name of Mountain Cran-
berry, he supposed that he could produce specimens to your
satisfaction, but which proved to be the common Bear-berry,
(Arctosta'phylos UVA-U'Rsr;) the identical plant to which
General Dearborn alludes, as growing also in the Forest Hills
Cemetery, Roxbury, and which he evidently thought to be
the Cow-berry. A friend of mine who is not unfamiliar
with the forms of our native plants, was confident that he had
seen plenty of Vaccinium Vi^tis-Id^^a, near some town in
Middlesex county, which he had visited during the past
summer, but which, he afterwards became satisfied, was no
other than the Bear-berry. And still another instance, of
friends, who, 1 think, must have mistaken the common Cran-
berry (Vacci'nium macroca'rpon Ait.,) which, growing as it
sometimes does, by the sides of roads on the banks of ditches
that are nearly dry in summer, was supposed to be the plant
under consideration.

It must be understood then, that it is the Arctosta'phylos,
UVa-U'rsi, or Bear-berry, that is the plant alluded to, in
General Dearborn's article, of which I have spoken, and may
be seen in great luxuriance on the spot, which he has indi-

on Vaccinium Vitis-Id(c'a 171

cated. I saAV there, stems of it trailing over the ground,
measuring more than three feet in length, and covered with
dark red berries, which, in themselves, are conspicuous
objects at a late season of the year ; succeeding the showy
flowers, which are borne in short clusters on the ends of the
branches. The corolla of each flower is of an ovate or urce-
olate shape, white, with a reddish tinge, and transparent at the
base, but contracted at the mouth. The blossoms appear in
the latter part of May, and are among the elegant productions
of our northern spring. 1 remember being very much im-
pressed by their beauty when I once found a large bed of
them. Large patches of the plant may be frequently seen
among the Pitch Pine woods, on the sandy plains, in the
vicinity of Lowell, where, as elsewhere, indeed, it sustains
some reputation for its medicinal virtues In a pleasant spot,
frequented for its natural beauties and seclusion, by those who
love to ramble among the woods and fields of Hingham, it
has been observed : it flourishes on the light soils near Barn-
stable, as I have evidence from specimens sent from that
town, and now lying before me ; and at Nantucket I saw it
in vast abundance, last September, covering the prairie-like
plains of that island, especially towards Squam, and known
familiarly there as the Mealy Plum.

This name was well chosen, considering the dry, and
mealy, and somewhat sweetish consistence of its pulp, which,
beneath the thin skin, invests five hard seeds, so closely
adhered to each other, as to seem like the stone of a real
plum. In these particulars we have a fruit as distinct as may
be, from the fruit of the Cow-berry ; nor do the essential
diflerences end here ; for, while the one belongs to the class
Octandria, and to the groupe of our Blueberries, Whortle-
berries, &c., the other ranges under the class Decandria, and
represents the Arbutus family, under which name, indeed?
until quite lately it was known in its Generic appellation.

The Arbutus-groupe are well known to florists for their
beauty ; and of the Arbutus U>a-U'rsi, (our Arctosta'phy-
Los U'va-U'rsi,) we are told, by Loudon, that it is an abun-
dant species " in many parts of Europe, especially the Alpine

172 Descriptive Account of New

regions, the berries are food for grouse and other game, and
the leaves are used in medicine." Indeed various medical
properties are attributed to it. As a plant adapted to the
Rockwork, its long trailing stems, deep green leaves, pretty
flowers, and dark red fruit, make it a pleasing companion to
the Mitchella repens, Linnasa borealis and Epigaea repens,
all denizens of our New England woods, and familiar to us
through their humble grace.

In conclusion, it will be fairly granted that the habitat
of Yacci'nium Vrxis-lD^V, as occurring in Danvers, Essex
country, Massachusetts, remains as yet singularly unique.

Uino-ham, 30th Ja7i., 1850.

Art. VII. Descriptive Accomtt of Fourteen New and Beau-
tiful vai'ieties of the Phlox. By the Editor.

In our volume for 1845, (XII. p. 97,) we described
twenty-four of the finest varieties of Phlox, then in cultiva-
tion ; accompanying the same with some general remarks on
their growth and treatment, to which we refer the amateur in
want of such information.

Since then many new and splendid varieties have been
produced by the French and Belgian amateurs and nursery-
men, several of which have already been introduced into our
collections. Some of them are particularly remarkable for
their delicate tints, and no collection of this easily cultivated,
hardy and beautiful tribe can be complete without them.
We have therefore brought together the following descrip-
tions of fourteen of the most conspicuous which have flow-
ered with us the last two years, so that the amateur cultivator
may select therefrom such as will complete his collection,
and give him all the various shades which have so far been
produced.

1. Arsinoe. — Flowers good size, pearly white, with
violet eye ; petals slightly undulated, entire on the edge ;
foliage narrov.-- ; flowering in August and September ; height
one to two feet.

mid beautiful varieties of the Phlox. 173

2. Annais. — Flowers good size, of fine round form, creamy
blush, with large pink eye ; petals flat of good substance,
and smooth on the edge ; foliage narrow ; flowering in Au-
gust and September ; height one to two feet.

3. AuGusTE. — Flowers, medium size, of a lilac rose, some-
what shaded ; petals good form ; foliage narrow ; flowering
in August and September ; height one to two feet.

4. Beppo. — Flowers, large size, and fine form, of a deep
rose, shaded with crimson ; petals good form, and substance,
smooth on the edge ; spike of flowers dense, large and fine ;
foliage rather narrow, very glossy ; flowering in August and
September ; height one to two feet.

5. Camille. — Flowers large, white, with violet eye ;
petals good form, slightly undulated ; foliage narrow ; flow-
ering in August and September ; grows from one foot to
eighteen inches high.

6. Cromwell. — Flowers large, pale pink, shaded with
lilac ; petals good, round, smooth on the edge ; foliage nar-
row ; flowering in August and September ; height one to two
feet.

7. Due de Nemours. — Flowers, medium size, rosy lilac ;
petals good form, but slightly pointed ; tube of flower very
long which give the spikes of blossoms a loose appearance ;
foliage narrow ; flowers in August and September ; height
eighteen inches to two feet.

8. GffiTHE. — Flowers medium size, fine white ; petals
good form and substance, smooth on the edge ; panicles large
and considerably branched ; foliage narrow ; flowering from
July to September ; height eighteen inches to two feet.

9. Robert de Flandres. — Flowers large, clear blush,
beautifully pencilled and striped with pink ; petals broad
rounded, of good substance, and smooth on the edge ; foliage
narrow ; flowering in August and September ; height one to
two feet.

10. Reine de Jour. — Flowers good size, blush, with
large crimson eye ; petals rather narrow, of good substance
and smooth on the edge ; tube long ; foliage narrow ; flower-
ing in August and September ; height one to two feet.

174 JNemophila Maculata.

11. RosETTA. — Flowers very large, rich dark rose, of a
beautiful round form ; petals large, round and smooth on the
edge ; foliage glossy and narrow, though somewhat broader
than most of the narrow leaved sorts ; flowering in August
and September ; height, one to two feet.

12. Standard of Perfection. — Flowers good size,
white, distinctly and delicately striped with pale lilac ;
petals slightly wavy ; round, entire on the edge ; panicles
of flowers ample ; foliage narrow ; flowers in July and Au-
gust ; height two to three feet.

13. Speculum. — Flowers large, blush white, mottled
with pink ; petals good form ; foliage narrow ; flowers in
July and August ; height two to two and a half feet.

14. Triumphator. — Flowers good size, clear white, with
delicate stripes and pencillings, of deep amaranth ; petals
fine form, smooth, round, and entire at the edge ; panicles
of flowers dense ; foliage narrow, glossy ; flowers in July
and August ; height two to three feet.

This variety was raised by M. Rodigas, who has devoted
himself to the production of seedlings, and is one of the most
extensive and successful cultivators of the Phlox in Europe.
His seedlings are among the finest which have been pro-
duced. Triumphator was selected among thirty thousand
seedlings, and is conspicuous for the delicacy of its tints, the
form of the flowers, and the general habit of the plant.

Art. VIII. Neinophila Maculata. By the Editor.

All the Nemophilos are pretty annuals, either as orna-
ments of the conservatory or flower garden. N. insignis is
especially one of great beauty, and invaluable as a winter
flowering plant. Well grown, and placed on an elevated
shelf, or suspended from the roof, its slender stems depend
over the pot, and completely cover it, producing innumerable
quantities of its gay cerulean blossoms, which contrast prettily
with its tiny foliage. N. discoidalis, is more curious than

Nemophila Maculata. 175

beautiful ; its almost black flowers, with a whitish disc,
having a singularly attractive appearance. N. atomaria has
white flowers speckled with dark spots, and though not con-
spicuous, is a neat little plant. All of them are natives of
California, and the N. insignis was one of the discoveries
of Douglas, in his first tour to the north-west coast.

Fig. 9. Nemophila Maculata.

N. maculata, the species now under notice, is another Cali-
fornian species, recently introduced by Mr. Hartweg, who was
sent out by the London Horticultural Society to explore the
riches of that country, in 1846 and 1847. Mr. Hartweg, in
the journal of his mission, published in the Journal of the
society, (Vol. HT, p. 217,) states, that he made two or three
excursions to the valley of the Sacramento, at different sea-
sons, where he found many of the Californian plants already
introduced. It was in one of these visits, in April, 1847, that
he found the Nemophila maculata, on the bank of the Chuba

176 Nemophila Maculata.

river. " It grows generally near rivulets, or in damp and
partly shaded places."

Seeds of it were received in the fall of 1847, and in 1848.
it first flowered in the Horticultural Society's garden, and was
described and figured in the Journal of the society for that
year. It was considered the best annual raised from Mr.
Hartweg's seed ; with the habit of insignis, it has whitish
flowers, with a deep violet blotch on the end of each tube of
the corolla. Like all annuals, however, the plants vary in
color, the blue spot being often ill-defined and run ; but by
careful saving of the seed, its great beauty may be preserved.
Mr. Hartweg called it N. speciosa, which, being an objection-
able one for its color, Mr. Bentham substituted that of macu-
lata. Our engraving, (^o-. 9.) accurately represents this fine
plant.

Our plants are not yet quite large enough to bloom, but
two or three specimens exhibited by Mr. Barnes, of Dor-
chester, at the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, on the
9th of March, fully establish its reputation as the finest
annual lately introduced.

It requires the same treatment as the N. insignis, and
grows as freely as that species. The seeds may be sown in
pans, in a frame, or cool hot-bed, and when an inch high, the
plants may be potted off" singly, in small pots, and be either
shifted into larger ones to bloom, or turned out into the open
ground in May.

For winter blooming, a second sowing should be made in
August. These plants, if properly managed, will flower from
December to May.

The following is a recapitulation of the most showy kinds :

Nemophila atomiria, spotted,

(white dotted.)

. ccelestis, sky blue,

(blue, spotted.)

discoidalis, bordered,

(black, eyed with white.)

insignis, beautiful,

(blue.)

alba, white,

(white.)

grandiflora, large flowered,

(blue.)

striata, striped,

(striped.)

macuMta, new spotted,

(white, spotted with violet.)

Every flower garden should have three or four of these.

General Notices. 177

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General JVotices.

New Mode of Preserving, or Transmitting to a Distance, Cut-
tings OF Plants. — Various methods have been tried whereby cuttings of
tender plants may be safely conveyed to a distance, all of which arc, in
some respect or other, defective. A most ingenious and effective method
was shown to us the other day by Mr. Daniel, gardener to the Baron Ilugal,
of Vienna, who is, at present, travelling in this country, collecting animals
and plants for the young Emperor of Austria. We may also remark, that
Mr. Daniel is a native of Holland, a most enthusiastic gardener and botanist,
has made several tours to tliis country, as well as having visited most of the
best collections in Europe.

He carries with him several cylinder-shaped glass bottles, with wide
moutlis and glass stoppers, similar to those used in chemists' shops for hold-
ing medicine ; into these he throws his cuttings, just as they are taken from
the plant, without any particular arrangement or order ; a very little w^ater is
placed in the bottle, and when filled with cuttings, the stopper is hermeti-
cally sealed up. In this way he has been collecting for several weeks, and
those he had from both Mr. M'Nab and ourselves, although tliey will not
reach Vienna for probably a month or six weeks, he is satisfied they will
arrive in safety, and grow. He stated to us, that cuttings kept in similar
bottles, for fifteen weeks, had grown most freely, and that many instances
had occurred, where they had sent out roots during their journey, and were
immediately potted on their arrival at Vienna. So simple and efficacious a
mode of sending cuttings deserves to be brought before the notice of culti-
vators, tlie rationale of which will be readily comprehended by such as have
studied tlie principle of the Wardian case. To prevent accident in transit
these glasses may be packed within small wooden cases, for siiort journeys,
but as light may have something to do in the matter, when sent to a great
distance, arrangements might be easily made by which they could be placed
within its influence.

Specimen heaths of the rarer, and more difficult sorts to grow, are wrought
by Mr. Daniel upon tlie stronger growing khids, such as melanthera, arbo-
rea, &c. ; on these the tricolors, Massoni, elegans, &c., are grafted, and
some attain a very large size ; nor does it appear, from Mr. Daniel's ex-
perience, that they are afterwards short-lived. He was much struck witli
many of the plants in the Edinburgh Botanical Garden, and pronounced
several of them as unrivalled in Europe. Nor was he less gratified in having
an opportunity of seeing Mr. M'Nab's most judicious method of shifting
large plants, it so happening that the splendid plant, Cocos nucifora, was
undergoing that operation during the time he was in the garden.( — Jour, of
Hort., 1850, p. 153.)

Select Flower and Kitchen-Garden Seeds. — As cultivators of gar-
dens are now making tlieir purchases of seeds for tlie season, perhaps it v.-ill

VOL. XVI. NO, IV. 23

178 General Notices.

not be out of place to point out a few of the most choice and useful varieties,
concerning the culture of which we shall treat in the Calendar of Operations
as the proper times come round.

Amongst plants for the stove and warm conservatory, do not omit Thun-
bergia alata and its varieties, Ipomcea bona-nox, I. rubro-cserulea, and
I. Quamoclit, Hibiscus insignis, H. Manihot, Momordica sp., Gomphrena
globosa, Balsams, Cockscombs, and other general favorites.

Amongst useful plants for the greenhouse and cool conser\'atory are
Schizanthus, Primula sinensis, and Rliodanthe Manglesii. A very nice lot
of Calceolarias and Cinerarias may generally be obtained by procuring a
packet of seed from any respectable dealer, or well-known grower of these
flowers ; of course, show varieties must not be expected, but, for conserva-
tory or drawing-room decorations, they will save more expensive varieties.
One of the most beautiful creepers for the cool conservatory is Tacsonia
mollissima ; it is of a delicate rose color, and very graceful in habit, beau-
tifully adapted for hanging in natural festoons from the roof of a lofty house ;
its fniit is also interesting, especially when it bursts, and displays its wax-
like seeds. It will flourish in a very cool greenhouse, and, as it generally
seeds under good management, it may be procured by this means.

In the way of biennials or perennials for partial protection, or entire ex-
posure in the flower garden, we may particularly instance the following,
which may be raised from seeds. First and foremost, we place tlie Humea
elegans, which requires growing one year as a frame plant, to prepare it for
planting the next year ; it is by far the most graceful and ornamental, half-
hardy plant which finds a place in the flower garden. Stachys, Pentstemons,
and Antirrhinums are pretty and useful plants, which require very little pro-
tection; and amongst those Avhich do not need any protection, the most
striking are Alstrosmerias, the Hollyhock, perennial Larkspurs, (Delphinium,)
Monkshood, (Aconitum,) and several species of Dianthus, Campanula, and
Papaver.

Hardy and half-hardy annuals are so numerous that we shall only mention
a few of those which are deserving of a place in every garden, however
smalL Those which succeed better if raised under glass, and afterwards
transplanted, are Lobelia gracilis, L. erinus, L. ramosa, and their varieties ;
Phlox Drummondi, Saponaria calabrica, Calliopsis, and if room can be
aflforded them, German Stocks and German Asters. Those we select for
sowing in the open ground are the following : — Centaurea cyanus and de-
pressa, Bartonia aurea, Clarkias, Calendula, (Marigold,) Collinsias, Corydalis,
Delphinium Ajacis, Eschscholtzia, Gilia tricolor, and G. achilleaefolia, Gode-
tia, Iberis, (Candytuft,) red and white ; Lathyrus odoratus, and others ; Mal-
comia, (Virginian stock,) Nemophila, Tagetes, (French and African Marigold,)
with Marseilles, French, and other double Poppies.

One or two of the above are worthy of particular attention : the first of
these is Delphiniun Ajacis, the branching Larkspur, than which nothing can
be more beautiful or useful ; it is equally appropriate for planting singly in
mixed beds, in straight lines, or in large masses, and these may be either
dwarf or tall, by simply pegging the plants down, or by tying them up. Cen-

General Notices. 179

taurea cyanus, growing two fcot high, and C. depressa, five inches high, are
equally beautiful, and exceedingly useful in making bouquets.

Before we conclude this section of the subject, it will be proper to notice
a few half-hardy ornamental creepers, of Avhich seeds should be procured :
these are Calampelis scabra, Lophospermum, Maurandya, Scyphantlius,
Cobcea scandens, and the different varieties of ornamental Gourds ; of the
latter we would particularly mention the Turban, or Turk's Cap, and the
Bottle Gourd, as these two varieties are considered hardier than others.

We close these remarks with a few words on kitchen garden seeds.
NoUiing can be more absurd tlian for a gardener to encumber himself witli
an extravagant number of varieties of the different culinary vegetables.

Of Peas we content ourselves this year with four varieties ; two of them,
Bishop's Dwarf Long-podded, and Fairbeard's Champion of England, we
proved last year to be far superior to those we had previously grown, and
which had been selected, in former years, afler careful experiments. The
otlier two kinds, which we still grow tliis year, are Hairs' Dwarf Green
Mammoth, and Burbridge's Eclipse.

We have one sort of garden Bean, " The New Royal Cluster ; " and one
variety of Kidney Bean, " The Dwarf Prolific ; " tliese two Beans we last
year proved to be superior to all other Beans which have come to our knowl-
edge.

One kind of Borecole is enough, the dwarf, hardy green ; and of Broccoli,
we know only four varieties, which we have tested in former years, viz. : —
Snow's Superb White, Knight's Protecting, Early Purple Cape, and Early
White ; and two new late ones to try against our older favorites, viz. : Im-
perial Winter, and EUetson's Mammoth.

Of Cabbages, we have the true Early York for culinary Cabbages ; Drum-
head for " Sour-krout ; " and Chappel's Colewort for the purpose which its
name implies.

Of Cauliflowers, the Early Asiatic and the Walcheren are what we use.

Of Carrots, the Dutch Horn for forcing, and the Altringham for general
crop.

Of Celerj', we limit ourselves to one kind, Cole's Superb, or " Celeri
violet," a variety of undoubted superiority.

Of Lettuces, we select the Brighton Cos, or Paris Cos, the Hardy Ham-
mersmith Cabbage, and the Drumhead.

Of Onions, for general crop, the White Spanish, the Deptford, the Brown,
and White Globe ; for Salads, the two-bladed for pickling, the silver skinned ;
and for autumn sowing, the Tripoli.

Of Radishes, one long-rooted variety, and the red and white globular,
with black Spanish for whiter use, and the white Naples to produce roots for
pickling.

Of Spinach, the round for summer use, and the hardy, prickly for winter.

Among the items which ought not to be omitted are tlie Ice-plant for
garnishing. Chicory and Lamb's Lettuce for winter Salads, Hamburg Parsley
for the sake of its roots, and Nicotiana Tabacum for fumigating.

In the above remarks I have not noticed those vegetables of which only

180 General Notices.

one or two varieties exist, even in seedmen's lists, as mistakes can scarcely
take place in such places. — [The Writer of the Calendar in the Gard. Chron.
1850., p. 86.)

Remarks on Early Flowering Plants for the Greenhouse, By John
McArdell. — In general, the early flowering kinds of greenhouse plants are
not cultivated to a great extent. In the months of February, March, and April,
every open flower attracts more attention, and really appears more lovely, than
at any other period of the year. It is yet too early to expect anything in the
flower garden, therefore the greenhouse is the only place where the desired
pleasure can be obtained, and there, too frequently, we only have the sight of
the green leaves or bare stems. Tliis solely depends on the selection of plants
when furnishing the house, and therefore may easily be prevented. The follovi'-
ing is a brief notice of a few plants that bloom at this season, with remarks on
their management. No doubt there are others equally suitable, besides those I
am about to recommend, very suitable to decorate the greenhouse. And first,
the Epacris tribe, Avhich contains so many interesting varieties, are first
entitled to notice, since from January up to the beginning of May, one or
other of them will be in flower, and grow freely in peat and white sand, the
former well broken ; the young shoots should be stopped by pinching off" the
ends. Cosmelia rubra : The habit of this plant, and manner of flowering
very much resemble that of the Epacris, although the flowers are larger, and
of a deeper color ; it thrives well under the same treatment as Epacris.
Pultnia stricta — an old and much neglected plant, yet it certainly is a beau-
tiful thing when well managed ; its spikes of bright yellow and red pea-
shaped flowers, abundantly produced, make it a most lovely object ; it should
be cut back just after it has flowered. Chorozema Lawrenciana, C. varium,
C. varium nana, C. varimn rotundifolia, C. ovatum, and C. Henchmannii, are
the best of the tribe, and will all flower about this time ; they require shift-
ing. Hovea Celsi and Hovea pungens are also fine plants to bloom at this
time ; the latter is of a darker color than the former. Eutaxia myrtifolia :
this is a very handsome greenhouse plant. When the young wood has made
three or four joints, every shoot should be stopped ; by this treatment it may
be formed into a neat dwarf shrub ; it is a free bloomer. Pimelea: this genus,
with its beautiful heads of pink, white, and red flowers, are amongst the best
of greenliouse plants : tliey are not so easily groum as some plants. I have
seen Pimelea Hendersoni, and P. spectabilis grafted on P. dicussata and P.
drupace, and in this way they do much better than when grown upon their
own roots. Leschenaultia formosa is a delicate dwarf-growing plant, very
difficult to manage, but, when grown well, is a most lovely thing, covered
with bright red flowers. It should be potted in rough peat with a good mix-
ture of silver sand, and should always receive a good supply of air and
water, botli summer and winter. [Winter ?] Boronia anemonasfolia, B.
viminia, and B. surrulata, are splendid plants, [anemonsefolio ?] ; these will
not flower until April, and then they are fine objects, the color of their flow-
ers being a rich rosy red : they should be grown in peat-leaf mould, and silver
sand, Kennedya monophylla is a lovely climbing plant, bearing long trusses
of blue pea-shaped flowers : it grows well in peat and leaf mould, with a

Domestic Notices. 181

little sand, and should be trained upon a trellis. The above named plants
will all succeed well under tlie same treatment. They delight in sandy peat,
and should have plenty of air and water at all times. They should be fre-
quently stopped to keep them close and dwarf, except the Kennedya mono-
phylia. I will also add to this list the Genista rhodophaena; this is a
splendid plant, with its bright yellow blossoms, and requires to be grown in
rich loam and leaf mould. It requires very little pruning, as it is naturally
a dwarf-growing plant. A greenhouse containing the above named plants
in flower, with the assistance of a few azaleas, camellias, and rhododendrons,
I think, would be all that could be desired. [Perhaps it is necessary to
caution some of our readers, as we think our correspondent has expressed
himself somewhat unguardedly with respect to watering. Plenty of air is,
doubtless, very good advice ; but plenty of water would imply, that the plants
in question had little to fear but the want of water. In summer, this advice
may be liable to but little objection, but not so in winter. We believe most
persons find it, of all things, the most important to be careful of winter
watering.— fGarrf. Chron., 1850., p. 117.)

Art. II. Domestic JVotices.

Second Annual Fair of the Michigan State Agricultural So-
ciety.— The second annual show of this society Avill be held at Ann
Arbor, on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, the 25th, 26th, and 27th of
September next. A list of the premiums offered, with the rules and regu-
lations has been forwarded to us by our correspondent, Dr. J. C. Holmes,
corresponding secretary of the society. The amount of premiums in books,
money, &c., amounts to upwards of #2,000, and among them very liberal
prizes are offered for horticultural, floricultural, and agricultural productions,
A copy of our Fruits of Ameiica is offered for the greatest and best variety
of winter apples ; and also copies of the Magazine of Horticulture. We hope
tlie dissemination of these works among our western friends will aid in ex-
tending the taste for fruits and flowers.

With a view to the establishment of a central office, which shall contain
an agricultural library, museum, &c., for the benefit of the members of the
society, all persons who feel interested in the establishing of such an
office, and are willing to assist, are invited to send specimens of wheat,
wool, improved agricultural implements, machinery, seedling, or engrafted
fruits, &c., &c., directed to J. C. Holmes, Secretary of the Michigan State
Agricultural Society, 108, Jefferson Avenue, Detroit.

Cincinnati Horticultural Society. — The next annual exhibition of
this Society will be held in Cincinnati, on the 11th, 12th, and 13th of Sep-
tember next.

We arc gratified to learn, from the prize-list which has been published,

182 Domestic Notices.

that very liberal premiums have been offered for flowers and fruits. We
have not room for the entire list, but among others are the following. —
Apples. — For tlie best ten varieties, not less than six of each, ^10. For tlie
best display of all kinds, a sUver cup, $20. Pears. — For the six best
varieties, not less than six of each, #10. For the best display of all kinds,
$20. Peaches. — Five best varieties, $10. Best display, f 20. Grapes. —
Best display of hardy varieties, $10. Best display of foreign, in variety, $15 ;
with second premiums for each class of less amount. Greenhouse Plants.
— Best display, $25. Dahlias. — Best twenty-four blooms, $10. Best dis-
play, $15 ; with numerous other prizes for flowers of all kinds, and also for
vegetables.

The Ohio Agricultural Fair, the Ohio Mechanics' Institute Exhibition,
and the American Pomological Congress, are all appointed to take place at
the same time, in Cincinnati, making the occasion one of great interest
to all ; especially to cultivators at a distance it offers great inducements to
attend.

The Society are also exceedingly desirous that the fruit growers of the
West should brhig specimens of their collections for the inspection of the
Pomological Congress, which will be composed of the most intelligent fruit
growers from all the States of the Union and Canada. Communications, &c.)
should be addressed to William Resor, Esq., Chairman of the Council.

The Buffalo Horticultural Society. — The annual meeting of this
society was held on the 18th of February, 1850, and the following officers
were elected for the current year : —

President, — Lewis Eaton.

Vice Presidents,— U. B. Potter, W. W. Howell, Jesse Ketchum, W. H.
Southam, Abner Byrant, Thomas B. Chase, Morgan G. Lewis, James G.
Masten, Jason Sexton.

Corresponding Secretary, — Benjamin Hodge.

Recording Secretary, — C. F. S. Thomas.

Treasurer, — A. A. Howard.

The Treasurer was directed to procure, for the use of the Society, a copy
of Hovey's Fi-uits of America, and also to subscribe for the periodicals taken
last year, and the Prairie Farmer also.

A resolution was adopted, recommending Hovey's Magazine and The Hor-
ticulturist to the confidence and support of all engaged in tlie promotion of
horticulture.

It was also voted, that the award of the diploma of the Society shall be
considered an evidence of the highest merit.

Improvement of the Gooseberry, Currant, and Blackberry. —
Of our native gooseberry there are four varieties, — all hardy, — all produc-
tive, and above all, good fruit, and it is said, never liable to mildew, as the
foreign kinds are ; and the fruit of our native best kinds are now very far
superior, to what it is said tlie English originally were. Doubtless by cul-
tivation, by reproduction, for a few generations, ours may be wonderfully
improved. Our currants, I think, by art, may also be greatly increased in
flavor and size. Our high bush native blackberry is an exceedingly fine.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 183

productive fruit, and I think highly deserving to be domesticated, and im-
proved in flavor and vast size. — Truly yours, W. Kenrick. Feb., 1850.

New Hardy Evergreen Trees. — I take great interest in your descrip-
tion of pines, very great; and much desire to sec them introduced, — all
such as will bear our climate. The following, from what you have stated,
will, I suspect, prove hardy in lat. 42° here. Cedrus Deodara. — Funebral
Cypress ; Pinus Strobus nivea ; Pinus cxcelsa ; A'bies SmitluVma ; Thuya
filiformis. As to the Japan cedar, (Cryptomeria,) and the whole tribe
from New Mexico and California, I have doubts of them all ; except only
such of them as the Douglasi, which may also be found as high up on that
coast as the lat. of 53°. The province where Mr. Fortune found the Japan
cedar was Chusan, I think, and the Nankin cotton and tea district, but the
funebral cypress was in cold mountainous districts, full 200 miles north, pro-
vince of Tlie-hol, " neai the Toiver of the Thundering Winds.^'' What is the
Juniperus pendula ? It is said to be beautiful. Have you the New Ever-
green Larch, which originated late in England. Thus, tliere are probably
six varieties, (as you will suppose, all hardy,) to add to our beautiful Norway
spruce, three of which, at least, are splendid weeping trees, which we want,
namely, Deodtira, T. filiformis, and funebral cypress. — Yours, W. Kenrick,
JVonantum Hill, JVewton, Mass., Feb., 1850.

The Season in Pennsylvania. — Our peaches are all killed in the low
grounds. On the 15th of January last, the thermometer, in the morning, was
down to 8° below zero, — the only cold morning that we have had all winter,
and the only time the mercury descended below zero ; generally, the
weather was mild. The 14th instant, the thermometer stood at 73° at noon,
and ranging from about 30°, in the morning, to 50° and 60°, at noon, all
through the present month. We had considerable snow during December,
— not much in January, — but a great deal of rain ; not much snow in Feb-
ruary,— much rain ; in March considerable rain, and much open and pleasant
weather ; tlie ground in fine order for farming operations. Yesterday, I
sowed my oats, — to day it is snowing in real earnest ; thermometer 32°, —
snow now, — 8 o'clock. P., M. three inches deep, and may be much deeper,
as it still continues. Vegetation has made a start ; grain fields never had a
more promising appearance, at this season of the year, then at present, yet,
the prospect to farmers is not encouraging ; the productions of the farm, as
grain and cattle, are at this time very low, and scarcely any demand, while
the expenses of farmers, such as repairs, taxes, labor, and various other out-
lays are as high as ever before. Yours, Sfc, J. B. G., Columbia, Pa., March
23d., 1850.

Art. III. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, February 23, 1850. An adjourned meeting of the Society was
held to-day. The President in the chair.

The chairman of the committee on Flowers reported that lie had put up

184 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

the seeds placed in his hands, in twelve separate lots, to be distributed
among the members.

The committee to whom was referred the President's address made a re-
port which was read and recommitted for alteration and amendment.

Letters were read from Gen. Taylor, President of the United States, and
Rev. George Putnam, honorary members ; and J. J. Thomas, Dr. Wendell,
S. B. Parsons, Dr. J. A. Kennicott, F. R. Elliott, and C. Downing, corres-
ponding members, acknowledging their election.

A committee of three, consisting of Messrs. Hovey, Leach, and Austin,
was appointed to arrange the proceedings of the Society, for the last and
concluding number of the Transactions, with a list of the members, &c.

The Executive Committee were authorized to make tire appropriate re-
pairs in the Hall.

Geo. B. Caldwell and Wm. McRea, Roxbury, were elected members.
Adjourned two weeks to March 9th.

Exhibited. — Vegetables. From W. C. Strong, a basket of string beans.

March 2d. Exhibited. — Fruits. From J. Washburn very fine specimens
of Easter Beurre Pears, perfectly ripened, high colored, and of delicious
quality.

Vegetables. From T. Needham, a basket of string beans.

March 9th. An adjourned meeting of the Society was held today — tlie
President in the chair.

The Report of the committee on the President's address was read and ac-
cepted. [As it is one not only of interest to all the members, but to the
public generally we make no apology for inserting it entire.]

The special committee, to whom the anniversary address of the presi-
dent of the society was referred, for the purpose of considering the several
recommendations tlierein contained, in view of the action of the society in
relation thereto, beg leave to report, that they have attended to the duty im-
posed on them, as far as time and circumstance would permit, and now sub-
mit the results of their deliberation and inquiry.

The suggestions contained in the address alluded to, are entitled to the
favorable consideration of the society, not only as the recommendations of
high official station, but as the conclusions of a sound judgment, active zeal,
cultivated taste, and liberal spirit, long displayed in promoting its various
interests ; and on these accounts, as well as for their practical value, com-
mended themselves to your committee.

That favorable results have attended the efforts of this society, in pro-
moting a taste for horticultural science, and a love for horticultural pursuits,
cannot, with truth, be gainsayed. By its weekly exliibition, it has brought
to the knowledge of its members and the public, the gains of a liberal en-
terprise and intelligent skill, in many new varieties of choice fruits, and rare
and beautiful flowers ; and by its premiums, offered and awarded for superi-
ority in each, it has exerted a laudable spirit of emulation, and has done
somewhat towards promoting an improved mode of cultivation in both. But
although much may have been done, — perhaps all, that, in the infancy of the
society, should have been attempted, — very much more remains to do, before

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 185

the ends for which the society was instituted can, if tlaey ever can, be ap-
proximated. Years have brought to the society an increase in the number
of its members ; and tliis, assisted by the liberal bequests and donations of
its friends, an addition to its funds ; and this increase in its means of useful-
ness, authorizes, if it does not demand, an attempt in advance, towards at-
taining tlie ends for which it was organzied.

An opinion has long been entertained, by some, at least, of the members
of the society, that some effort should be made, for their mutual instruction
in a more economical and scientific cultivation of trees and plants, than at
present generally prevails. Different modes have been suggested, in refer-
ence to this result, and one of the recommendations of tlic president, seems
to have had tliis end, Avitli others, in view. If a committee of tlie society
shall occasionally, through the season, visit the gardens of such of tlie mem-
bers as may desire it, in order to ascertain those Avhich are the neatest kept,
best cultivated, and most economically managed, — and, at the same time,
inform themselves minutely of the mode of cultivation pursued in each, tlie
nature of the different soils, and the kinds of manure applied, and shall, in
their report, detail the extent of their observations and inquiries in these
particulars, — something may, perhaps, be done, towards attaining the object
last alluded to, and carry out, at the same time, the suggestions contained
in the address. But whether this may be so, or not, your committee heartily
concur with the president, in his recommendation of offering a premium for-
the neatest kept, most economically managed, and best cultivated garden ;.
and also, for grounds specially appropriated to vegetables, fruits, or flowers,
distinguished by like characteristics ; and they further advise, that a premium
should be offered for similar superiority, displayed in the cultivation of
grapes or plants, under glass, in greenhouses or graperies. The award of
premiums, as at present offered by the society, though attended with bene-
ficial results, and fairly made, is not always a true criterion of merit. Ex-
clusive attention may have been bestowed, by the successful competitor for
the prize, upon one production, or upon a limited number of trees or plants,
to the exclusion of all others, and thereby bear away the prize of superior-
ity,— and justly, too, under the rules of the society, — from him, whose gar-
den, for scientific cultivation, neatness, and economy in management, may
be a pattern.

A regular, scientific course of lectures, upon subjects connected with
horticulture, — as upon the nature of the different varieties of soil, the fertili-
zers and stimulants adapted to each, the cultivation best suited to them, the
vegetation for which they are best fitted, or giving an account of destructive
insects, their habits and history, with the modes for their destruction, —
would, doubtless, be both instructive and entertaining; and the delivery of
a course of this description, if those qualified for the duty would place their
services at the disposition of the society, be desirable and beneficial. But,
as tlie members of the society are scattered abroad over the State, and could
improve the opportunity but to a limited extent, if such was afforded, and as
tlie information alluded to can readily be obtained from books, where it is
wished, — the small number of members to enjoy this advantage, if provided.
VOL. XVI. NO. IV. 24

186 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

for them, and tlie pecuniary circumstances of the society, do not, in the opin-
ion of your committee, justify an appropriation of money for this purpose.

The cultivation of a taste for, and instruction in, the art of landscape gar-
dening, seems one of the legitimate objects of our association, and, for its
own salie, is highly wortliy of encouragement. Nothing contributes so
much to the beauty and ornament of a country residence, as grounds neatly
kept, laid out with taste, upon correct principles of art, and founded on the
teachings of nature ; and any measure that can be adopted, for the cultivation
of this taste, and the improvement of tliis art, within the means of the society,
is worthy of its serious consideration. With all due deference, however, for
the enlightened judgment from which it emanates, your committee cannot
feel that the carrying into effect of the recommendation of the president, for
tlie establishment of a professorship of landscape gardening, would be at-
tended with any practical benefits to the society, or the public ; but be-
lieve tliat any effectual encouragement of the art is, at present, beyond the
means of the society, and that it must continue to be dependent, for its
cultivation and improvement, upon the formation of an improved taste, and
sense of its want, on tlie part of the public.

The production of new varieties of fraits, from seed, is an object especially
worthy of the attention of the society ; not only because such may be sup-
posed to be better adapted to our soil and climate, than such as are of foreign
origin, but because, both from past experience, as well as upon scientific
principles, great improvement, especially in some species, may reasonably
be expected. With respect to some species of fruits, it is true, so great
improvements have in this way already been effected, as to leave, indeed, but
little to be hoped for ; while the improvement and amelioration of others, by
raising of seedlings, have been almost entirely neglected. While, during
all seasons of the year, the choicest varieties of pears and apples, already
approximate to perfection, and Hovey's seedling is such an advance, both
in size and flavor, beyond the common strawberry, as to leave but little
to be desii-ed, and the Diana grape shows what can be effected by raising of
seedlings of that species of fruit, the improvement of tlie blackberry, the
cun-ant, and the gooseberry, seems almost to have escaped the attention of
fruit cultivators in tliis country. Notwithstanding the degree of perfection
already attained, liberal premiums are offered by the society, for new pears
and apples, of native origin ; and it has appeared to your committee advisa-
ble, that a similar encouragement should be extended, for tlie production of
a new variety, from seed, superior to any now in cultivation, of those above
named as comparatively neglected.

The recommendation, or suggestion, of tlie president, as to the expediency
of holdhig the next aimual exhibition of the society under a tent, uistead of,
as heretofore, in the hall of the society, or some other larger room, has been,
with your committee, a subject of serious deliberation, and careful inquiry.
It is a matter calculated to give rise to considerations of an opposite charac-
ter, and is one about which opposite opinions will probably be entertained, as
the considerations suggested may appear, one way or the other, to prepon-
derate. The expense attending the holding of the exhibition in any other

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 187

place than tlie hall of the society, is a matter of no small importance ; for,
while a niggardly parsimony in tlie management of the affairs of the society
is to be avoided, care sliould be taken, that a liberal economy in expendi-
tm'e does not run into a wasteful extravagance. The removal of tlie furni-
ture, fixtures, and dishes, — the newly filling up and arranging them, — the
hire of the tent, or hall, and the lighting of it, — must necessarily be attended
with much cost, without taking into view the loss arising from the breakage
of, or injury to, tlie furniture ; a loss that cannot be wholly avoided. The
increased cost to the society, of having its exhibition at any other place than
its own hall, would, then, seem to be a sufficient objection to the so doing, un-
less obviated by some expected corresponding increase of advantage, to be
derived therefrom. And this, those who favor the project confidently antici-
pate, from a greatly increased number of visitors ; increased over what it
would be, if tlie exhibition was held in the hall of the society, to an extent
more than sufficient to balance any increase of expenditure thereby ; and by
a sufficient space obtained, to exhibit the fruits and flowers to advantage ;
space, as they Say, that cannot be afforded in the hall of the society. That
the few last annual exhibitions of the society have, from some cause, been
less numerously attended than is desirable, is not to be denied. Whether
the holding the exhibition under a tent, would, from its novelty, be more at-
tractive to the public, can only be decided by tlie experiment. Although
the hall of the society may not be sufficiently ample, to allow of a suitable
arrangement of plants and decorations, if room is reserved for all the articles
that may be sent to the exhibition, yet if only such fruits are placed upon
the table, as are, from their novelty or superiority, objects of interest, or
wortliy of notice, sufficient space can probably be provided therein, and in
the store under the hall, — the use of which, for the occasion, has been most
liberally tendered by its proprietor, for the purposes of the society.

But, independent of the expense attending it, there is another inconven-
ience, that should not be overlooked, or too lightly estimated, that may ac-
company the having of the annual exhibition under a tent ; and that is, the
exposure to which the committees required to be in attendance may be sub-
jected, and the serious risk of injury to health arising therefrom, at a season
of tlie year to which our autumnal diseases are incident, — particularly if the
weather should be unpropitious ; a contingency that may, not improbably,
occur, and that would deprive the society, should it happen, of the expected
advantages arising from an increase of visitors. In answer to objections of
this character, it is denied that any undue exposure need be incurred ; that
all proper protection can be afforded, and needed accommodations provided ;
and that, though storms may occur, they should not be anticipated.

Your committee learn, from inquiry, that the expense attending the holding
of the exhibition in any of the larger halls in the city, would be so great, as
to render it wholly inexpedient. A tent, as they are informed, is now in
process of construction, two hundred and fifty feet long, and one hundred
and fifty feet wide, for Mr. John Wright, the cost of which will be about
$1,500 ; that it will be completed in a short time, and tliat it is the intention
of that gentleman, to let it for such purposes as it may be required for. The

188 Massachusetts Horiiculiural Societi/.

sum to be charged for the use of the tent, is not yet decided on; but ■vvonid
not, probably, for the time the society would wish it, exceed $125. The
Messrs. Hovey have the charge of the public garden, tl;ie only place adapted
to an exhibition of the character refen-ed to ; it has been, heretofore, let by
them, on an occasion somewhat similar, for one-fourth of the net receipts of
the exhibition, and could be obtained for the society, if they desire it, on
terms not less favorable.

As this subject is one about which entire unanimity of opinion does not, at
present, exist, and as no exigency requires an immediate decision Avith re-
spect to it, your committee are of opinion, that, with their recommendation
of its favorable consideration, it had better be referred to the conmiittee of
aiTangements, with authority to take such measures, in relation to it, as they
may deem expedient. Several months must elapse, before the occasion con-
templated will an-ive ; and during that time, that committee will be able to
form some opmion, as to the space tliat will be required to be provided for
the exhibition ; will be able to inform themselves, in many particulars, as to
the expense attending the having it under a tent, of which your committee
are now uninformed ; will probably have an opportunity to see the tent when
erected, and thus be qualified to form a more correct judgment than can now
be arrived at, Avith respect to the expediency of the proposed measure.

One other matter, that, though foreign to the objects of their original ap-
pointment, has been referred to them by a vote of the society, remains to be
considered by your committee ; and that is, the frequency and manner of
holding the regular exhibitions of the society for the ensuing season. Here-
tofore, it has been usual to have an exliibition, by the society, on every Sat-
urday tlirough the year ; tliese exliibitions being held, during the summer,
in the hall of tlie society, and at otlier seasons, in tlie library room. To
tliese Aveekly exhibitions, the public were originally admitted without charge ;
but as some inconvenience Avas supposed to have resulted from this course,
recently, a small admission fee was demanded. For a very considerable
period, the Aveekly exhibitions of the society were numerously attended; but
more recently, eitlier because a fee has been charged for admission, or for
some other cause, tliey seem to have lost their attractions for the public.
This is much to be regretted by the society, and should be by tliose interest-
ed in horticultural pursuits, y/ho may not be enrolled among its members.
The principal stimulus to contributions to these exhibitions, is tlie very natu-
ral desire, on the part of individuals, to bring to the notice of the public, the
results of tlioir successful cultivation or active enterprise, as exhibited in
the production of superior specimens, or the introduction of ncAv varieties.
If these exhibitions, tlien, cease to be attractive to visitors, the main incite-
ments to contributions Avill be AvitlidraAvn, and they foil longer to be objects
of interest Avitli tlie members of tlie society, Avhile the public will no longer
be offered an opportunity, should it be desired, to form, by personal inspec-
tion, an opinion of the novelties or rarities tliat may be produced. Under
these circumstances, the adoption of one of tAvo measures has been suggest-
ed to your committee, as expedient for the society ; that is, to attempt the
rendering of tliese exhibitions more attractive, by having them less frequently,

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 189

or to seek an increase of visitors, by making them free to the public. The
adoption of the course first proposed, would be attended witli some incon-
venience ; the time of holding the exhibitions would not be so extensively
known as now, when, after long continuance of the custom, that tliey are to
be regularly on Saturdays, is generally understood ; and because it is diffi-
cult, if not impossible, if the exhibitions should be held on stated days, to fix
beforehand tlie time when certam fruits or flowers will be most abundant, or
in the greatest perfection.

Your committee, in view of these supposed difficulties, and considering it
has been the established practice of the society, since its organization, unat-
tended with much expense, recommend an adherence, for tlie coming season,
to tlie custom of havhig exliibitions of fruits, flowers, and vegetables, regu-
larly on Saturdays, through the year, in the hall and library room, as here-
tofore ; and, because it would seem to have been more acceptable, and that,
without the attendance of visitors, they are of little value, as well as that the
charging of an admission fee is not productive of much income, a return to
the original practice of making the weekly exliibitions of the society free to
the public. And with these statements of facts, and explanation of tlieir
views, recommend to the society the adoption of the subjoined orders. All
which is respectfully submitted. For the committee,

JOSEPH S. CABOT, Chuirman.

Ordered, That tlie selection of a place for holding the ensuing annual ex-
hibition of the society, and the recommendation of the president of the socie-
ty, in his inaugural address, at tlie commencement of the year, in relation
thereto, be referred to tlie committee of an-angenients, witli full power and
autliority to take such measures in relation tliereto, as tliey may think proper,
and to have such exhibition in the hall of the society, or under a tent, (if
such can be procured on reasonable terms,) as, in view of the expenses
to be incurred, and other circumstances attending it, they shall deem expe-
dient.

Ordered, That during the ensuing year, there be, as heretofore, Aveekly
exhibitions of tlie society, for fruits, flowers, and vegetables, on Saturdays ;
and that the public be admitted to such exliibitions, under such regulations
as may be now or hereafter established by the society, free of charge for ad-
mission.

Ordered, That in addition to tlie premiums established by the society,
there be offered for

The most economically managed, best cultivated, and most neatly kept
garden or grounds, through the season, a premium of $25.

For the second best do., $15.

For the most economically managed, best cultivated, and most neatly kept
fruit garden, for the season, $25.

For the second best do., $15.

For the most economically managed, best cultivated, and most neatly kept
flower garden, for the season, $25.

For the second best do., $15.

190 Massachusetts Horticultmnl Sodeiy.

For the most economically managed, best cultivated, and most neatly kept
vegetable garden, through the season, $25.

For the second best do., $15.

For the best managed, most economically conducted, and well kept green-
house, tlirough the season, J^25.

For the second best do., $15.

For tlig best managed, most economically conducted, and well kept grape-
ry, through the season, with or without fire heat, $25.

For the second best do., $15.

Ordered, That for the following named objects, to be originated after Jan.
1, 1850, and that, after a trial of throe years, shall be deemed superior in
quality, and other characteristics, to any of the same species now extant, the
following named premiums be offered, viz. : —

For the best seedling blackberry, a premium of $40.

For the best seedling currant, red or white, a premium of $25.

For the best seedling gooseberry, a premium of $25.

The premiums offered for the same, to be awarded by the standing com-
mittee on fruits, for the time being.

Ordered, That the premiums now offered for the best kept grounds, fruit,
flower, and vegetable gardens, greenhouses and graperies, be awarded by a
special committee, consisting of five members, to be appointed by the chair
for that purpose, whose duty it shall be, to visit such grounds, gardens, and
houses, &c., as may compete for the same, at least tv/ice during the season
and as much oftener as they may think proper, without giving notice of their
intention to do so ; and in making their awards for tlie same, shall have re-
gard, not only to the neatness exhibited, and skill in cultivation displayed, but
also to the expense and economy with v/hich such have been attended, and
that they be and are authorized, when they think proper, to require of the
owners of the same, a statement, in writing, of the management pursued, the
expense incuiTcd, the mode of cultivation adopted, the manure applied, and
such other particulars as they may see fit to require, under the penalty of a
right to withhold any of said premiums, that would otiierwise be awarded,
if such requirements are not complied with.

It was voted that the committee for inspecting the gardens and awarding
the premiums be appointed by the chair.

It was voted that a silver medal be awarded to A. W. Haven, of Ports-
mouth, N. H., for five specimens of pears exhibited last fall, and overlooked
by the Fruit Committee.

A letter was read from Dr. H. Wendell, of Albany, accompanied with a
report of the Proceedings of tlie North American Pomological Convention,
at Syracuse.

Wm. A. Crafts, of Roxbury, was elected a member. Adjourned two
weeks to March 23.

Exhibited. — Flowers. From Hovey & Co. twelve fine Azaleas of tlie
following varieties: — Splendens, speciosa, speciosissima, triumphans, pu-
nicseflora, and six beautiful seedlings ; also, six Chinese Prunroses, viz :—

Horticultural Operations, for April. 191

two double white, one double purple, two single purple, and one single white,
all large plants in eleven inch pots, the double purple having more than two
hundred flowers expanded. From P. Barnes, tliree seedling Azaleas and
two plants of Nemophila maculata, a new and pretty variety.

AWARD OF PREMIUMS.

Greenhouse Azaleas. — For the best six plants, to Ilovey & Co., SO 00

For the second best, to Hovey & Co. . _ _ - 4 00

Chinese Primroses. — For the best sLx plants, to Hovey & Co. 3 00

Fruit: From W. C. Strong, Hovey's seedling strawberries. From J.
Washburn, very handsome specimens of Easter Beurr6 pears, finely colored
and v/ell ripened.

HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS

for APRIL.
FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines, in the greenhouse or early vinery, will now be advancing
rapidly, and will soon be in full bloom. If they have broken well, the main
shoot should have been, before this, carefully tied up to the trellis, and the
laterals laid out in regular order, and also loosely tied ; bringing such as are
too tender now into the proper position when the wood becomes firmer.
Syringing should be kept up morning and evening. All the laterals which
have advanced more than three eyes beyond the fruit-buds should be topped,
and all the superfluous shoots Avhich sprmg from the base of the spurs
should bo rubbed off", except such as are wanted to take the place of the old
ones. These should also be tied to the trellis, and their points pinched off.
Give moderate quantities of air, and shut up ratlier early in the afternoon ;
when the vines are in bloom, increase the temperature 5° to 10°, and discon-
tinue syringing, supplying moisture by means of a liberal watering of the
walks. Vines in the cold-house will require the same treatment we advised
in our last. Vines, in the open air, if not already pruned, should be attended
to immediately, and properly tried up to the trellis, or wall. Vines, in pots,
in the greenhouse, now in fruit, should be liberally supplied with water.

Strawberry beds should be immediately uncovered, and if tlie ground
is dry, carefully raked, top-dressed, and put in order for the season ; if too
crowded, let half of them be dug under ; and if the soil is poor, top-dress
with guano. New beds may be made this month.

Gooseberry and Currant bushes should have their pruning finished
this month. New plantations may be made now.

Raspberry bushes should be pruned, the soil manured, and carefully
dug with a stout fork, so as not to injure the suckers, which take the place
of the old ones.

Fruit Trees of all kinds should now be pruned. Grafting may now be
commenced, taking the cherries first, the plums next, and the pears and
apples last.

192 Horticultural Operations, for April.

Melons sliould now be planted in pots in hot-beds, so as to bring them
forward early for turning out into the open ground in June.

FLOWER DEPARTMENT.

Camellias will now be making their growth, and will require more than
tlie ordinary supplies of water, and liberal syringing of the foliage every
other day. Give liquid guano once a week. Inarching may yet be done.

Dahlias may be started for a succession, and if potted, they may be
brought forward so as to be strong enough to flower in July. Seedlings
should be potted off as soon as tliey have four or five leaves.

Tulip Beds should be uncovered carefully, and have the surface loosely
stirred with a stick, or a trowel, so as not to injure the foliage.

Hyacinth Beds should also be treated in the same manner as Tulips.

Ranunculuses, planted last month, will now be coming up rapidly, and
will require to be guarded against severe frosts. Roots may yet be planted.

Carnations and Picotees in frames, should be well aired in all good
weather, and if very strong plants are wanted, they should either be
repotted, or turned out into a good prepared bed or border, the last of the
month. Seedlings should be pricked out into boxes or pots.

Chrysanthemums maybe propagated from cuttings the last of the month.

Japan Lilies should be repotted, if not already done.

Pelargoniums will now be throwing up their flower-buds, and will
require to have more liberal supplies of water, and an abundance of air.

Pansies, in pots, should now be top-dressed with very old manure, and
receive liberal supplies of water ; they will then produce large and superior
flowers. Seedlings should be potted off into pans or boxes.

Rocket Larkspur seed may now be sown in beds in the open ground.

Ericas should be headed in preparatory to a shift into larger pots, and
removal to the open air.

Tuberoses and Amaryllises should be potted.

Gladioluses may be planted in tlie open ground the last of the month.

AcHiMENES should be potted off and fresh bulbs put in for a succession.

Azaleas now beginning to grow, should be more liberally watered. Nip
off the tops of all long shoots so as to make them bushy plants.

Oxalises, done flowering, should now be sparingly watered.

Hardy Roses of all kinds should be now pruned. Moss Roses should
be cut back very short.

Cactuses, now showing their flower buds, should be more liberally
watered.

Double Balsams, German Asters, and other showy annuals, should
now be sown in pots for early blooming.

Hardy PjEONies may be divided and reset this month.

Herbaceous Plants of all kinds may now be transplanted.

Fuchsias should be repotted and headed in, so as to make good shaped
plants.

Stephanotus Floribundus should now be placed in the warmest part
of the house, and have more liberal supplies of Avater.

Tree P^eonies may be propagated by grafting, or division of the roots.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTURE

MAY, 1850.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. Weeping Trees, as Ornaments of Lawns and
Pleasure Grounds. By the Editor.

Few objects in garden scenery are more universally ad-
mired, than drooping trees. Indeed, so general has been this
love of pensive forms, that art, though in vain, has been re-
sorted to, to possess those of Aveeping habit. Neither are
any more in harmony with the smoothness and verdure of
the lawn, or the neatness and high keeping of the pleasure
ground. Viewed either as isolated objects, when their weep-
ing habit is displayed to the best advantage, or in combina-
tion with groups or masses of other trees, they are equally
picturesque and ornamental. We shall not soon forget the
peculiar gracefulness and beauty of a weeping beech, which
we saw at Dalkeith, during our visit to Edinburgh, and of
which we have given a full account, (Vol. XII., p. 207,) or
the picturesque form of the weeping ash, at Chatsworth, re-
moved many miles, at a great expense ; or even the weeping
elm, in the cemetery at Liverpool, where its drooping boughs,
and masses of large deep green foliage, made it one of
the most interesting and desirable trees.

So great has been the desire to augment the number of
weeping trees, — but a few years since, consisting of only
the ash, beech, cherry, oak, and a few others, — that nursery-
men abroad have made unusual exertions, to select from the
millions of seedlings which are annually raised, any which
have shown a disposition to assume a drooping habit ; and
when it is recollected, that not more than twenty or thirty

VOL. XVI. NO. V. 25

194 Weeping Trees, as Ornaments of

really weeping trees have yet been brought to notice, it will
be at once apparent how small is the chance of seedlings
sporting into such a form. The only weeping tree yet
raised in this country, is a variety of the peach, selected
from a bed of seedlings, by Mr. Wm. Reid, nurseryman, of
Elizabethtown, N. J. It possesses a very pendant habit, and
unless grafted very high, the branches soon trail upon the
ground.

The notion has been prevalent, to a great extent, that
weeping trees are produced, by inserting the grafts of any
kind of tree upside, down ; that is, inserting the scion, so
that the shoots, when they push, will grow downwards !
Indeed, the mode was recommended in one of the horticul-
tural periodicals, last year. It is scarcely worth while to at-
tempt to refute a statement, showing such utter ignorance of
all the laws of vegetable growth, as the least reflection would
at once convince any intelligent person of its complete ab-
surdity. All weeping trees are natural sports from the nor-
mal form, and horticultural art has not yet been able to
accomplish such a result.

In the great inquiry for weeping trees, we have thought
that we could not occupy a few pages to more advantage
than in making our readers acquainted with the limited num-
ber that have been introduced to notice. Such a list will
enable all who desire to possess such trees, to make their
selections more readily, and to choose such as are adapted to
particular situations. For cemeteries, all the kinds are admi-
rably suited, being almost as pendent as the willow, and at
the same time afl'ording a variety of foliage, different shades
of verdure, a pleasing ramification of the spray in winter,
and other peculiarities, which render them at all times inter-
esting and beautiful.

The following are twelve of the most popular and well
known kinds. Others have been recently brought to notice,
but are so rare, that we leave a notice of them to a future
time : —

1. The Larger Weeping Ash. {Fraxinus excelsior, var.
pendula.) This is one of the oldest varieties of weeping

Lawns and Pleasure Groiuids. 195

trees, and was discovered about the middle of the last cen-
tury, in a field in Cambridgeshire, England ; and the original
specimen, in 1835, measured six feet in circumference, at one
foot from the ground. It was a long time before nursery-
men began to propagate it, and the oldest trees in Britain,
besides the parent, are supposed to be of about seventy years'
growth. It has the same foliage as the common English
ash, of which it is a variety, and only differs in its pendulous
branches. It forms a perfect drooping tree ; and frequently,
the shoots of three or four years' growth, grafted ten feet
high, touch the ground. On this account, it should always
be grafted as high as possible, so that the branches may have
room to droop, without trailing upon the earth. This vari-
ety is finely adapted for forming arbors ; we saw several in
our tour in England, the branches and foliage of which
were so thick, that they completely screened the trunk from
sight. Around the trunk a circular seat was erected, thus
forming a perfect arbor. It is very hardy, and of ra])id
growth.

2. The GoLD-BARKED Weeping Ash. {F. excelsior, vaj\pen-
dula alirea.) This is in all respects similar to the last named,
except that the bark is of a bright golden, or orange yellow,
and has a striking appearance, after the leaves have fallen, in
winter and spring. It is yet quite rare. It is hardy, and
grows rapidly.

3. The Lentiscus-leaved Weeping Ash. {F.leniiscifdlia,
var. pendula.) This is a more graceful tree than either of
the above. The branches are almost as slender as a willow,
and the foliage, which is much smaller, renders it a desirable
and elegant tree. It is scarcely as hardy as the others, some-
times losing a few of its branches, in severe winters ; but its
rapid growth soon makes up for the loss. It is yet rare, and
but little known. We have two fine specimens of this in
our collection, each fifteen feet high, which droop their
branches upon the ground.

4. The Weeping Scotch Elm. (Vlmus montana, var.
pendula.) This is a very ornamental tree. Its foliage is
similar to the Scotch elm, of which it is undoubtedly a vari-

196 Weeping Trees, as Ornaments of

ety. The foliage is very thick, deep green, and rich, and
the branches, which assume a variety of forms, are frequently
as pendulous as the ash. In general, they grow mostly upon
one side, in a kind of fan-shape, but frequently forming a
regular drooping head. The heavy mass of dark foliage
which it always presents to the eye, gives it a very attractive
and beautiful appearance. It is a rapid and vigorous growing
tree, attaining the height of twenty-five feet in eight or ten
years.

5. The New Weeping English Elm. (U. camcpsti'is, var.
pmdula.) A new and fine variety, introduced to notice, we
believe, by Mr. Rivers, nurseryman, of Sawbridgeworth, Eng-
land, It has a fine pendulous habit, with small foliage, like
the common English elm, and branches much more slender
than the Scotch.

6. The Scampston Weeping Elm. (U. glabra, var. phi-
dula.) Another drooping variety of the elm, which is very
ornamental, with slender branches, and a deep green foliage.
With the two last, it makes a fine variety, where the space
will allow the introduction of several kinds.

7. The Weeping Beech. [Yagus sylvatica, var. pendu-
la.) This forms one of the most picturesque and ornamental
of all the weeping trees. The branches naturally incline to
one side, and descend almost perpendicularly downward. To
show its real character, it should be grafted quite high ; it
then has an opportunity to make a fine head. Perfectly
hardy.

8. The Weeping English Oak. [Q^uercus pedunculata,
var. pendula.) Mr. Loudon, in the Arboretum Britannicum.,
speaks of a large specimen of this tree, in Hertfordshire, Eng-
land, as " perhaps, one of the most extraordinary trees of the
oak kind in existence." Its height was seventy-eight feet,
in 1835, and the head covered a space of one hundred feet
in diameter. Many of the branches were thirty feet long,
and no thicker, in any part of that length, than a common
wagon rope. The foliage is similar to the parent, and holds
its verdure late in the fall. It is a rapid and vigorous grow-
er, and our largest specimen, five years planted, and fifteen
feet high, begins to assume its fine drooping habit.

Lawns and Pleasure Grounds. 197

9. The Weeping Poplar, or Aspen. {Vopulus trenmla,
var. pcndula.) An exceedingly rapid growing tree, attaining
the height of twenty feet in six or eight years, with droop-
ing branches, and a neat and pretty foliage, attached by flat-
tened steins, so that

"when zephyrs wake,

The aspen's trembling leaves must shake."

The continual motion of the leaves, when there is scarcely
breeze enough to disturb the surrounding trees, renders this,
in addition to its rapid growth, a very distinct variety.

10. The Weeping Sophora. (Sophora japonica, var.
pcndula.) A very ornamental weeping tree, with smooth,
dark green branches, somewhat resembling a laburnum, to
which tribe it belongs. It is exceedingly rare, and the only
good specimen we have seen in this country, is one in the
collection of Messrs. Hogg & Son, Yorkville, N. Y. The
branches are very pendulous, and the leaves, which are pin-
nate, give it a very elegant appearance. It is quite hardy,
and grows rapidly in any good soil.

11. The Weeping Mountain Ash. [Vyriis aucupdria,
var. pcndula.) A new and recently introduced variety, with
very pendulous branches, and foliage and frnit like the com-
mon English mountain ash. It grows freely, is quite hardy,
and although our specimens are yet small, it promises to be a
very ornamental drooping tree. It is, we believe, of recent
origin in England, or on the Continent, and is but little
known.

12. The Weeping Peach. {Versica vulgaris, var. pcn-
dula. This is the singular and elegant variety of the peach,
which we have previously alluded to as having been raised
from seed, by Mr. W. Reed, of N. J., about six years ago. It
has all the drooping character of the ash, with somewhat
twisted shoots, and grows mostly to one side, in a kind of
fan-shape. It flowers abundantly, and produces an inferior
fruit ; but when loaded with blossoms, its weeping boughs
appear like hanging wreaths of flowers. It is a most valua-
ble acquisition to the list of weeping trees. Grafted ten feet

198 The Red Gillijlower and

high, its shoots descend perpendicularly, and soon trail upon
the ground.

The weeping cherry, and laburnum, we noticed in the last
volume, in our list of select shrubs, (XV., p. 152.) They
each form fine ornaments for lawns.

Art. II. The Red Gillijlower and Cornish Gillijlower
Apples. By the Editor.

" I notice, in the last number of the ' Magazine of Horti-
culture,' that the apple known through Western New York
as the Black Gillijlower, is described under the name of Red
Gillijlower, to which the synonyme, Scalloped Gillijlower, is
added, on the authority of the American Fruit Culturist. I
enclose two figures, drawn from exact impressions of these
two varieties, showing their points of distinction. A. J.
Downing, in his work on fruits, places these two varieties
together ; although both are considerably disseminated, and
are known to Charles Downing, of Ncwburgh, who men-
tioned to me, some years ago, that he regarded the Red Gil-
litiower as by far the best fruit of the two. There are so
many points of difference in them, that scarcely any resem-
blance is to be found. The outline of the Red Gilhflower
which I send, was taken from the finest specimen I could
obtain, and is not so flat as the majoiity."

The above communication was received, some time since,
from Mr. J. J. Thomas, of New York, author of the Fruit
Culturist. In our February number, in our article descrip-
tive of select pears, we gave a full account of the Red Gilli-
flower, better, but improperly, known as the Black Gilliflower,
in some parts of New York ; and, as one of the synonymes,
we enumerated the Scalloped Gilliflower, on the authority of
Mr. Thomas, he having placed the latter as a synonyme of
the Red Gilliflower, as described by him ; and, supposing his
Red Gilliflower to be the same as ours, — for we knew of but
one, — without inquiring whether Mr. Thomas had made any

Cornish Gilliflower Apples. 199

error, we adopted his synonyme. Accidentally and fortu-
nately, by the kindness of our correspondent, C. Goodrich,
Esq., of Burlington, Yt., we are in possession of such informa-
tion as will tend to set the matter right, and correct the very
gross error into which Mr. Thomas has fallen, viz. : that of
describing, as the Red Gilliflower, one of the oldest English
apples, so well known to every pomologist as the Cornish
Gilliflower ; described by every British author on fruits, and
figured in Ronald's splendid work on the apple, and the
Pomological Magazine. Had we supposed that Mr. Thom-
as had overlooked such a well known English apple, we

Fig. 10. Red Giinjloicer.

should at once have referred his Red Gilliflower to that
variety.

As Mr. Thomas correctly states, " there are so many points
of difference iii them, that scarcely any resemblance is to be
found." For, while the Cornish Gilliflower is a greenish
apple, striped with light red, and so irregular and strongly
ribbed, as to be classed among the Calvilles, — under which
name it is cultivated in France, — the Red Gilliflower has a
very regular form, and a skin so dark, that it has acquired the
name of the Black Gilliflower.

200

The Red Gillijiower and

In corroboration of his remarks, Mr. Thomas accompanies
his commnnication with the following descriptions of the
two apples, and outline figures of each, which we annex ;
reproducing the Red Gilliflower, which accompanied our de-
scription, for the purpose of comparison : —

" Red Gilliflower. — Syn. Scalloped Gilliflower. Large,
flattish conical, often inclining to roundish or ovate conical ;
very irregular, and strongly ribbed ; surface striped with dull,
dark red, on a greenish yellow ground, and with a few mi-

Fig. 11, Black Gilliflower.

nute whitish specks upon the surface, which is usually more
or less blotched with mildew spots, or scabs ; stem short, or
one-half to three-fourths of an inch long, set in a cavity of
medium depth ; calyx of medium depth, in a very irregular,
strongly ribbed basin ; flesh very fine grained, greenish yel-
low, with a fine, spicy, sub-acid, first-rate flavor. Fruit often
very imperfect, and of diminished size. Tree a moderate
bearer ; winter.

Cornish GiWjlower Apples. 201

Black Gilliflower. — Rather large, oblong conical, very-
dark reddish purple in the sun ; often light red, with faint
approach to yellow, on the deeply shaded side ; stem three-
fourths of an inch long ; segments of the calyx closely
pressed together ; basin shallow, narrow, and furrowed ;
flesh yellowish white, with a shade of green ; flavor rich,
mild, sub-acid, fine ; flesh tender, large grained, dry when
fully ripe, which is its greatest objection. Tree a free grow-
er, great bearer, fruit always perfectly fair, and, as a long
keeper, scarcely inferior to the Roxbury Russet.

The chief points of difference between the two varieties,
are, the much lighter color, very irregular and often flattish
form, scabby surface, and superior flavor of the Red Gilli-
flower, as contrasted with the oblong and remarkably smooth
and even form, very dark color, inferior flavor, and great pro-
ductiveness of the Black Gilliflower. If the Red Gilliflower
possessed the fair fruit and bearing qualities of the Black, it.
would rank, in desirable qualities, with the Baldwin, Esopus
Spitzenburgh, and Rhode Island Greening. The past season,^
when nearly all our best sorts were wormy, defective, or
small, the Black Gilliflower was, almost uniformly, large,
fair, and perfect. It is a fine baking fruit, but as a table va-
riety, is esteemed only by a few persons."

We deem it unnecessary to extend our remarks upon this
subject, as, from what we have already said, in connection
with what follows by Mr. Goodrich, it will be seen that the
Red Gilliflower of Mr. Thomas is a misnomer ; and the true
and only Red Gilliflower, is that originally, we believe, de-
scribed by Mr. Manning, in the Magazine of Horticulture,
for 1841, (Vol. VII., p. 49,) — for we cannot find any pomo-
logical work which contains any account of it, prior to that
date, — and more fully noticed and figured, at the page re-
ferred to, in the Magazine for February :

Sir, — I notice, in the March number of your Magazine, a.
description of the Black or Red Gilliflower, by which I sup-
pose the Cornish Gilliflower is not much known in the vicin-

VOL. XVI. NO. V. 26

202 The Red Gillijlower, S^c.

ity of Boston. The Red or Black and Cornish Gilliflower
are both common here, — both having been introduced among
the first improved varieties, — and old trees of each variety
are common. The Cornish Gilliflower is one of the most
marked and distinct varieties of apples. Its name and
synonymes may be classed as follows : —

Cornish Gilliflower. — Pomological Magazine, Lindley, Downing.
Cornish Julyflower. — Kenrick, 6th ed.
Scalloped Gilliflower, — Buel, and most American orchards.
Red Gilliflower.— Thomas, 2d ed.

*?? ^!,,!^ ^ ' ( of some American orchards.
White Gilliflower, S

The tree is moderately vigorous and healthy ; forms a
handsome top ; a constant but rather shy bearer ; better for
the amateur's garden, than for market fruit. Fruit of the
highest flavor ; in perfection in January, but may be kept
until April or May, I send you five specimens. On account
of the severe drought, last season, they are about one-third
smaller than usual, and not as high flavor, besides being too
late in the season.

It was introduced here from England, by way of Canada.
Until a few years past, and since there has been a dispo-
sition to know the true names of our fruits, it has been uni-
formly called here, the Scalloped Gilliflower.

Wishing to possess all the Gilliflowers, and while I had an
old tree of it in my orchard, I procured, from an adjoining
county, the same apple, under the name of the " Striped Gil-
liflower," and from still another, under the name of the
" White Gilliflower."

Judge Buel went from this county to Albany ; he carried
many scions from this town, and probably this was among
them. There can be no doubt, but that the specimens I
send are the true Cornish Gilliflower. Another season, I
hope to send you better ones. Yours truly, C. Goodrich,
Burlington, March, 1850.

In another letter, Mr. Goodrich writes : "I like what you
say about the Red or Black Gilliflower. It is here always fair,

How to Prune the Quince Tree. 203

and a great bearer in alternate years, and by many preferred
to any other apple, — while by others it is called worthless.
Were you not mistaken in saying you had a supply of fruit
from Northern New York ? That is not a region that ex-
ports much fruit. Were they not from Vermont ? More
than six thousand barrels were sent from this, the smallest
county on the lake shore, to Boston and Worcester, and
probably from other counties quite as many. The valley of
Lake Champlain is, perhaps, more certain of a crop of apples,
than any other place in the United States. If you wish, I
will give you a short article on the subject, for your maga-
zine." Yours truly, C. Goodrich.

We certainly hope our correspondent will send us the arti-
cle he alludes to. It would be valuable to all northern cul-
tivators.— Ed.

Art. III. How to Prune the Quince Tree. By Mr. R.
Thompson, Superintendent of the Orchard and Kitchen
Garden Department of the London Horticultural Society.
From the Gardener's Chronicle.

Few fruit trees are more sadly mismanaged and neglected in
their cultivation, than the quince. Naturally tenacious of
life, and easily kept in tolerable vigor in almost any situa-
tion, except one perfectly dry, it is generally considered as a
tree which either does not need any great care, — that its
fruit, at the best, is of no great value, — or, that it will
grow and thrive, without the ordinary labor attendant upon
other fruits. Flourishing, to a certain degree, in very wet
localities, where other trees would scarcely keep alive, the
quince has so long been cultivated in such places, that it has
almost become a " fixed fact," to use a modern expression,
that it will not succeed elsewhere ; and the first question
generally asked, by those who are purchasing quince trees,

204 Hoio to Prune the Quince Tree.

is, " Can they be grown in ordinary garden soil ?" " Don't
they require a very damp locality ?" "I have always noticed
them," says one, ''growing in very low ground, and appre-
hended that they could only be raised in gardens affording
such situations." Bat without detaining the cultivator with
general remarks on the cultivation of the quince, here, —
merely remarking, that it will grow in any ordinary garden
soil, well manured, preferring . one moderately dry to one
always very damp, — we proceed to notice Mr. Thompson's
article, which follows.

Even where the quince grows freely, and produces heavy
crops, it is rare that a regular, well formed tree is seen. In
general, they have the form of huge bushes, with as little
comeliness, in this respect, as an ordinary garden shrub ;
often with three or four stems springing directly from the
ground, and a head as confused, in its twisted shoots and
cross branches, as is often seen in any uncultivated and
neglected tree. A quince with a straight, clean stem, of
three feet in height, branching into a round, well formed
head, is what we, in our little experience, have not often
seen.

That the quince tree may, however, be made to assume a
somewhat symmetrical form, is well known ; and Mr. Thomp-
son has plainly shown, in his article, how this is to be done.
If his advice is followed, we shall soon see but few of the
shapeless trees which disfigure too many gardens, and which,
in truth, should consign them, where they are too often
found, by the side of fences and walls, choked up with grass
and weeds, and bearing a half crop of small and often knurly
fruit : —

Pruning the Q,uince Tree. On referring to the accom-
panying engraving, it may be remarked that, in the preceding
year, a blossom-bud, similar to those marked a a, and sessile,
like them, was situated at 1. In the course of last season,
that bud pushed a sort of shoot, furnished with leaves, and
bearing at its extremity a single blossom, producing one
fruit, which, at its maturity, had either been pulled, or had

Holo to Prune the Quince Tree.

205

dropped off, leaving a scar at c. The portion between 1 and
c may be termed a branch, as it was furnished with leaves,

Fig. 12. The Quince Tree.
a a, Blossom-buds ; h b, Wood-buds ; e, The place where fruit was at-
tached last season.

and buds appear that were formed in the axils of those leaves ;
but still, it is an imperfect branch, inasmuch as it has no ter-

206 How to Prune the Quince Tree.

minal bud for its prolongation, the place of such bud having
been occupied by the fruit. As this portion is only furnished
with weak buds, it is not necessary to be retained, and should
be cut off at 1.

In rearing the quince tree, pruning is necessary, in order
to strengthen the stem ; for otherwise, it is very apt to be
twisted or bent over by the winds. Presuming the tree has
been planted in rich, rather moist soil, it will send up a long
but flexible shoot ; and if from this all laterals are pruned
closely off, with the view of making a clean stem, the latter
Avill be rendered much weaker than it would be if left to na-
ture. The plant should be cut back to within, say eighteen
inches of the ground, or more or less, according to its strength.
Generally, three buds next the section will push in the fol-
lowing season ; select the shoot best adapted for continuing
the stem, and train it as upright as possible. Shorten this at
the winter pruning, and spur in the laterals. In every suc-
cessive year, a well managed young tree, of any kind, ought
to have an increased quantity of foliage ; certainly not by
any avoidable means, should it be reduced to a condition un-
der which it could only produce a decreased quantity. But
such condition may be guarded against, and yet the stem can
be cleared of such lateral shoots as may have been temporarily
left to strengthen it and the roots, if their removal be gradu-
ally effected, of course from below upwards. A portion
should be removed at every winter pruning, but the quantity
should be more than compensated by that of the young shoots
produced above, in the preceding summer. By attending to
this, and annually shortening the leading shoot, a stout stem,
requiring no stake for support, will be the result. When the
stem has attained the desired height, the formation of the
head should be commenced. Three shoots, cut back at least
to half their length, will afford two shoots each, in the fol-
lowing season ; and thus, six principal branches will be orig-
inated. Afterwards, very little pruning will be required. It
will chiefly consist in early checking over-luxuriant upstarts,
and thinning out cross branches.

The Culture of the Camellia. 207

Art. IV. The Culture of the Camellia. By Mr. R. Erring-
ton. From Paxton's Magazine of Botany.

In our volume for 1848, we commenced a series of articles
on the cultivation of the camellia, and presented our readers
with the results of our experience in the growth of this
magnificent flower, in two papers in that volume, (XIV., pp.
301 and 351.) The article was concluded, as regards the
cultivation of the plants ; but two of the subjects we have
yet to prepare, in the course of this volume. These are, the
growth of new varieties from seeds, and a description of
some of the most select varieties.

Having produced a great number of seedlings, — some of
them fully equal to any that have yet been raised, — we were
anxious to ascertain the results of further experience, in order
that we might, if possible, give some facts, which might lead
to more certain success in the growth of seedlings. This
information we have much augmented, during the last two
years, and we shall therefore complete our article, in the
course of the summer. In the mean time, as a great many
of our readers, of the present volume, will not perhaps see
our articles above alluded to, we can refer them to Mr. Er-
rington's article, as conveying correct information upon the
treatment of the camellia, and if his advice is followed, the
amateur need have no fear of the best results.

Mr. Errington's division of the subject is a very judicious
one, and the cultivator of fine camellias will at once appreci-
ate the truth of his remarks. To amateurs, the particularities
of treatment will be especially welcome, as those little points,
so generally overlooked by writers on such subjects, are no-
ticed and commented upon in full.

Mr. Errington's article leaves off just where ours will be-
gin ; he has said nothing of the production of new varieties
from seed, or given any list of the most desirable varieties,
both of which we shall supply, in a future number : —

" Who does not admire a well grown and well blossomed
camellia, with its glossy, dark green leaves, and bold petalled,
exuberant looking flowers ?

208 The Culture of the Camellia.

There are peculiarities about this charming plant, which
mark it out above most other flowers ; and it seems to bid
fair to be as enduring, as to its popularity, as the geranium
or the rose.

For although our continental neighbors have poured their
thousands and tens of thousands of camellias into the British
market ; and although the camellia has been planted against
walls out of doors, in all quarters, made to form extensive
undergrowths in woods and plantations, and even bedecked
the cobbler's stall, yet nobody thinks a well bloomed camellia
commonplace in character, or beneath their notice.

For enlivening the dreary winter months, we know noth-
ing equal to it, provided its culture for that period is done
justice to. How to do that, according to my opinion, shall
form the groundwork of my present observations.

In order to render my remarks familiar to the amateur, to
whom principally I opine they will be useful, I must first
premise that, for practical purposes, the culture of the camel-
lia, a twelvemonth round, divides itself into five periods ;
each of which, under a systematic course of culture, should,
according to my notions, be recognized by all good cultiva-
tors as distinct in character ; although it may be, some of the
features of management, at first sight, appear identical with
those of another section.

The five periods, then, I would entitle as follows : —

1st period, Forcing into wood.

2d do. Formation of fltjwer-buds.

3d do. Maturation of flower-buds.

4th do. Development of blossoms.

5th do. Rest, necessary to the first period.

riRST PERIOD. FORCING INTO WOOD.

It was long before the true bearing of the policy, as to its
connection with successful winter flowering, was understood
or appreciated. Indeed, I am not assured that all our camellia
growers yet thoroughly recognize its importance. Be that as
it may, with me it is the 'keystone,' and I think that I can
show a winter-house of camellias, from this period until

The Culture of the Camellia. 209

March, against any competitor ; not for extent, certainly, but
for glossy, dark luxuriance, and the vast amount of well fed
blossom buds, which appear, at first sight, like a profuse crop
of nuts ; the leaves, too, being so very dark, as fairly to
shame the most healthy Portugal laurel. I name this,
merely to induce the reader to place some confidence in the
mode of culture I am about to explain.

For the successful culture of the camellia for winter flow-
ering, it is absolutely essential that this forcing into wood
take place very early in the spring. It is obvious, therefore,
that camellias blossoming in April or May, are not eligible ;
such, however, are needed in some establishments, but our
business lies with the winter flowerers ; nevertheless, the
same principles will apply to all seasons, a slight allowance
being made for the intensit)/- of light peculiar to the summer,
of which more in our concluding remarks.

If I were required to select plants, for the future winter's
flowering, soon after Christmas, I should take those which
had blossomed in the course of December ; this is a narrow
footing, but I give it in the way of illustration. Such, then,
having ceased blossoming, or nearly so, I should remove
from the ordinary conservatory or sitting-room, to a cool pit
or frame, or to the shady and cool part of an ordinary green-
house. And why ? There is always a trifling amount of
exhaustion, consequent on the free blooming of the camellia ;
but being a willing plant, and it being nature's ordination, as
it would seem, that the wood-bud for the succeeding year
should commence its development close on the heels of the
flowering process, I endeavor to arrest this excitable charac-
ter, in order to bring up all arrears of root action ; for it
must be understood, that although enough of reciprocal action
has taken place between the leaf and the root, to enable the
young bud to commence development, yet, in general, the-
additional energies imparted by a few weeks' partial dorman-
cy, are of immense benefit. This is a course I have prac-
tised for years, and I always find it forces more buds into
growth, than when hurried into that stage immediately on
the heels of the flowering.

VOL. XVI. NO. V. 27

210 The Culture of the Camellia.

I am generally enabled to retard the growing principle, by
such means, for nearly a month ; but a very low temperature
becomes necessary, — 35° to 40° is amply sufficient.

I have now been unwittingly drawn into a discussion of
the fifth period, but will again revert to the first period, the
forcing into wood.

What pruning is necessary, should be performed the mo-
ment they have ceased flowering ; or, indeed, somewhat
before, if possible. The best situation to commence the
growing process in, would perhaps be a pit, containing a
small, yet enduring bottom heat, of about 75° ; not, how-
ever, with the idea of plunging them, for I could never dis-
cover much lasting benefit to the camellia, by this course ;
what may be gained by a sudden impulse, is more than
counteracted by the derangement of the drainage through
the earth-worm ; for few plants suffer more from a derange-
ment of the drainage than the camellia, especially if liquid
manure be frequently used.

It has not, however, been my practice to use a pit for this
purpose : I force the whole of my trees at once, in the house
appropriated to them, and in which they have both blossomed
and rested. I merely cut off the hot water to effect the
resting period, and turn it on in full power when the forcing
commences.

A temperature ranging from 60° to 70° is, I consider, the
most congenial to the forcing process : they will, however,
do very well with a temperature of 55° to 60°, provided
little air is given, and plenty of atmospheric moisture is
maintained. To effect this, I use the syringe freely, at least
twice a day : indeed, when the wood-buds are swelling, I
keep the wood almost constantly moist.

Shading is particularly necessary, during this period ; the
young buds of the camellia are exceedingly delicate, whilst
unfolding their tender foliage. I employ a thin canvas,
which admits a flickering light ; it is probable, however, that
our new rough plate glass will supersede, in a short period,
the necessity for canvas.

Watering, also, is an essential item. The root should be

The Culture of the Camellia. 211

well fed, in order to force as many buds as possible to de-
velop themselves. I use liquid manure very frequently, du-
ring this stage. I will describe the kind I use, towards the
conclusion of this paper.

SECOND PERIOD. FORMATION OF FLOWER-BUDS.

Now comes an important period, indeed, in the earlier stages
of which, much nicety of management becomes requisite.

We all know that, under ordinary circumstances, the ca-
mellia,— especially if " pot-bound," — forms its buds readily
enough ; but how often do we hear complaints of such cast-
ing their buds : and why ? simply because they are in a
better condition to form buds, than to maintain them after-
Avards. This often happens with the amateur, yet seldom
with the nurseryman ; and this, because the former is not
aware how much moisture is at times necessary to the ca-
mellia ; and if pot-bound, how often the interior of the ball,
wedged up with hundreds of fibres, can scarcely be pene-
trated, without steeping it occasionally, especially if, through
any neglect of watering, the ball has become thoroughly dry.
This, then, amongst other circumstances, shows that a sys-
tematic course is necessary, and that directions for the ama-
teur should be very explicit ; so much so, indeed, that old
practitioners will be apt to consider them tedious.

It must not be thought, that in thus noticing, in a digres-
sive way, watering, this period in camellia culture requires
more water than any other ; I name it here, to pave the way
to suggestions for a more liberal amount of pot-room, for
such is quite compatible with free flowering, provided the
cultivator exercises that control over his plants, during the
latter part of this stage, which a niggardly application of
water will furnish.

In the earlier part of this stage, a slight decline in the
temperature may take place ; 60° will amply suffice ; more
solar heat, however, will frequently compel the cultivation to
stand at a higher pitch. Shading must be continued as be-
fore, and the only difference requisite is a free circulation of
air, night as well as day, and a gradual diminishing of the

212 The Culture of the Camellia.

amount of water, until the incipient blossom-bud attains a
decided character, which it will do in four or five weeks. It
may here be understood that I intend a temporary check, yet
not such a check as may interfere with the health of the
plant, or the size of its foliage ; such a check may be decried,
by minds unprepared for, and indisposed to, a nicety in cul-
ture : I, however, advise no more than I have proved, for
many years.

A too severe check would materially impair the size of the
foliage ; I have, however, constantly found, that the most
luxuriant foliage may be obtained, and blossom-buds as well,
provided the root is in a sound and healthy condition : with-
out this, — as, indeed, with all other modes of culture, — all
niceties of atmospheric management must fall to the ground.
As Mr. Barnes once observed, in regard to the culture of the
pine, the main point is, to cultivate them with plenty of live
roots.

I would here advert, however, to the importance of sup-
plying abundance of atmospheric moisture, whilst the tem-
porary check is going on ; this it is which prevents loss of
size in the foliage, and I may add, loss of color also.

I may here observe, that this check, through a very mod-
erate allowance of water, is carried so far with a somewhat
gross subject, as to permit the plant to flag a little, occasion-
ally. When the roots are healthy, I find no injurious conse-
quences result from it : I may observe, however, that this is
not permitted, until the leaves have attained nearly, or quite,
their full size.

Liquid manure is, of course, entirely withheld, during this
stage, or period; and after the checking system has been per-
sisted in for a few weeks, most of the shoots will begin to
show twin buds at their terminal points, or even three or
four, as the case may be. Nothing more is necessary, than
to be very cautious in the return to a liberal watering, of
which I shall speak in the next period. It may here be
observed, that before a more liberal course of treatment is had
recourse to, most of the young shoots should show the twin
buds before alluded to, one of which is the true terminal

The Culture of the Camellia. 213

wood-bud, and the other an incipient blossom-bud, of which
more will subsequently be developed, as the young wood
becomes mature.

THIRD PERIOD. MATURATION OF FLOWER-BUDS.

The horticultural tyro must not fancy, that the periods,
here alluded to, are as definitely detached as the divisions of
my remarks. As may be inferred, they gradually merge into
each other ; this period, therefore, may be characterized as
fairly commencing, when the flower-buds are as large as
peas ; then it is my practice to commence a course of liquid
manure. The characters of this will be hereafter described.

At the commencement of this stage, a more liberal amount
of watering may be commenced, observing to apportion its
amount according to the character of growth ; those which
are thoroughly set for blossom receiving a full watering, and
those of a gross and undecided habit receiving it in a limited
way. Indeed, check, through partial drought, must entirely
cease from this period, for if the plants commence their
forcing process in February or March, — which they ought to
do, if possible, — the period I now describe will be about the
middle of May, by which time they will receive much natu-
al heat, together with more light, and at times a greater
amount of aridity in the atmosphere : water then must be
liberally supplied.

This course pursued for a few weeks, still contriving to
shade with thin canvas, and to syringe frequently, the buds
will enlarge with great freedom ; and with their enlargement
the leaves will be perceived to increase, both in size and
thickness, gradually exchanging their pallid green for a dark
and glossy character ; and if the root action is good, and the
drainage perfect, the benefits of liquid manure will be speed-
ily manifest. Towards the early part of July, the buds will
be three parts grown, and here I would advocate the turning
the plants out of doors for a few weeks.

There is no absolute necessity for this course, as I have
proved ; kept in altogether, however, they are apt to be-
come infested with the scale, and I have now found that

214 The Culture of the Camellia.

turning them out for awhile is inimical to the spread of these
pests, which will always be found to infest forced camellias
more than those which are treated in the ordinary way.

I have always deemed it necessary to use a canvas screen,
during bright sunshine, for two or three weeks after their
first exposure out-doors. Towards the early part of August,
it may safely be withdrawn altogether, and now they will
require more copious waterings still, with the liquid manure ;
they must not be suffered to get dry at the root for an hour,
if possible. This course pursued brings us to the

FOURTH PERIOD. THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE BLOSSOMS.

The commencement of this period may be marked by their
re-introduction to the house, and my practice is, to get them
in by the middle of September.

The house being duly cleaned and prepared, and the
plants or trees housed, the course henceforward is very
simple.

No shading will be requisite, provided the plants are in a
sound and healthy condition ; regular waterings of liquid
manure must be followed up, and a thinning out of the buds
must take place ; indeed, the thinning out had better be per-
formed before bringing them into the house, if possible. I
do not like thinning them, until the buds are half grown ;
they are then easily singled out, and if the practice previously
laid down is carefully carried out, a considerable number may
be parted with.

In the first place, there is generally a cluster of buds
around each leading shoot ; sometimes a complete bunch at
the terminal point, I generally reduce the point to a couple,
at most, and as my plants generally form buds in the cavity
of the next two or three leaves downwards, I reserve, on the
average, from four to five buds on each shoot ; those shoots,
however, of a weaker character, and lower down the stem, I
leave, according to their strength.

At this very period, if there be any scaly insects on the
plants, I commence a syringing process, which will soon de-
stroy them, of which more under the head " Insects." Inde-

The Culture of the Camellia. 215

pendently of this, however, provided there be no insects, the
ordinary syringing is followed up, and a very liberal course
of ventilation carried out.

It will be understood, that I have been describing a course
of practice pursued in order to have forced camellias ; that is
to say, camellias flowering all through the winter. Perhaps
the term "forced camellias" is not strictly applicable; it
will, nevertheless, serve to convey an idea of what I mean.
By the practice here described, they will commence flower-
ing in November, and continue blooming until the following
March.

Now, to ladies and gentlemen who spend their time in the
country, as many do, from the autumn until the " London
season," the gratification of such a fine winter-house of ca-
mellias is very considerable ; for of what benefit is it, in such
cases, to have them blooming in April and May, which is the
most usual period for those which are not forced.

To proceed. I do not apply any fire-heat until frosts oc-
cur, and then with great moderation indeed. The buds will
continue swelling, and unfold, when ripe, in the most gradual
way ; and, indeed, on this gradual unfolding much of their
size depends. As soon as they commence blossoming, all
syringing must immediately cease ; still, however a reasona-
ble amount of atmospheric moisture must be kept afloat, yet
by no means allowed to condense on the leaves.

Now, this is a point not easily accomplished, when the
dark and frosty days and nights of December arrive : if moist-
ure exist in the atmosphere, and fires are used, the vapor
will ascend, and in ascending, come in contact with the
glass roof, and this, at the low temperature consequent on a
sharp frost outside, will condense, and fall in drip on the
plants.

What then is to be done ? I will describe the practice by
which I generally avoid the drip.

In the first place, as to moisture. All watering is per-
formed, of course, rather early in the morning, say by ten
o'clock. I need scarcely observe, that, under the circum-
stances, no attempt is made to raise atmospheric moisture ;

216 The Culture of the Camellia.

the most free and ample ventilation which the weather will
permit is used night and day, and just as much fire applied
as will sustain a temperature of about 50° max. by day, and
40° to 45° by night.

The maintenance of so moderate an amount of artificial
heat, requires very little fuel, and admits of a liberal ventila-
tion, even at night. But this is not all ; in extreme cases, I
have applied a covering of some kind to the roof, which
course, indeed, combined with the precautions before named,
is, under the most trying circumstances, a guarantee against
drip ; which, I need scarcely observe, is fatal to the beauty
of the camellia, causing spots all over the blossoms, and in-
deed, inducing premature decay.

It is well known, that a portion of the atmosphere's mois-
ture in the interior, — albeit ample ventilation is provided, —
becomes, in extreme weather, frozen on the inside of the
glass ; that is to say, when no night covering is used. With
a covering, however, and a free circulation of air, the vapor
is dispersed as it arises, passing off, of course, at the back
ventilators.

I have little more to say about the development of the
blossom ; I may merely observe, that, to produce fine flowers,
a temperature averaging 55° is requisite ; but, nevertheless,
it becomes necessary to fall back, in extreme cases, to the
temperature before quoted ; for it is not merely the develop-
ment of the flowers, but their long continuance in blossom,
which must engage the attention of the cultivator.

Having now discussed all the periods with which I set
out, I may now beg permission to make a few concluding
remarks on some general principles, which are applicable, in
a greater or less degree, to the camellia in all stages, and un-
der most circumstances.

Soils and Potting. It may not be generally knoAvn, that
the almost continual use of liquid manure demands even a
greater amount of, or more perfect drainage, than when clear
water is used. Good drainage, indeed, under all circumstances,
is one of the great essentials in the culture of the camellia ;
and when the soil is rightly constituted, the water will pass

The Culture of the Camellia. 217

through almost the moment it is poured upon it. When the
water is observed to hang long on the surface of the pot, the
plant should immediately be turned out and examined, and
if it does not require shifting, the crocks, or other drainage
materials must be readjusted.

The common earth-worm is a great infester of the camel-
lia, and the damage they cause in the drainage is enormous.

I never set my camellias on the ordinary ground, — always
on a body of coal ashes ; this will keep out the worms.

A little clear lime water may be used, if worms are sus-
pected, and the worms must be gathered up as they turn out
of the soil.

The compost best suited to this plant, in my opinion, is
about three parts of a fibrous mellow loam, rather inclined
to adhesiveness, and two parts fibrous heath soil, which has
become a sound turf through age.

These should have been procured tv/elve months or more,
and should be well chopped with a sharp spade, but not rid-
dled. My practice is, to add a good sprinkling of finely
crushed charcoal, and of coarse sand ; the latter, however,
depends on the amount of tenacity in the loam, and the
character of the heath soil. After carefully placing the
crocks over the bottom, so as to leave three or four bold aper-
tures, or outlets, I place a pounded mixture (from which all
mere dust has been ejected) of broken crocks and charcoal ;
on this a thin layer of new sphagnum, and on this a little
fibrous loam, from which nearly all the mere soil is beaten
out. The ball being placed, lumps of fibrous loam and
peaty material are wedged in all round, at about equal dis-
tances ; then a sprinkling of the finer compost, well shaken
in ; then more lumps wedged round ; and, finally, two or
three inches of the general compost, the latter well pressed
down, — being used in a dryish state. I form the surface into
a concave form, in order to coax the water, for a while,
through the body of the ball of earth.

It may here be observed, that they should always be in a
moist state when shifted ; if any pot-bound plants, with hard
balls, appear dry, the only course is to plunge them over

VOL. XVI. NO. V. 28

318 The Culture of the Camellia,

head in water, for half an hour ; after they are taken out,
however, they should remain in their pot for at least twenty-
four hours before shifting, to drain away superfluous water.

Much ditFerence of opinion exists, as to the best time for
shifting ; one party shifting in the rest season, another after
the plants have made their annual growth ; the latter is my
practice, but many good cultivators pursue the other course.
Indeed, it is not very material, provided the subject has a
sound ball and good roots, and that the subsequent manage-
ment is good.

Liquid Manure. This I consider a most important affair ;
not but that fine camellias may be grown without it, but
much finer with. By its use, the flowers may be much in-
creased in size, and the foliage rendered much more dark and
glossy, than without it.

Many are the modes of making this liquid. I will, how-
ever, describe mine, which I use for all purposes, for the
sake of simplicity, and, I may add, at nearly all periods ;
premising first, that I never use it unless clear, and always
'highly diluted.

All urinary matters are saved, and exposed to the air for
nearly a month at a time ; they are then poured into a huge
stone cistern, placed side by side with a vessel for soot-water.
When a "brewing" takes place, the cistern is filled one-third
with clear water, — generally warm, from hot water pipes
contiguous. Into this, Peruvian guano, at the rate of at
least four ounces to a gallon, is stirred, until the guano is
dissolved. One-third more of the cistern is now filled with
the urinary matters, and the remaining third is filled up with
clarified soot-water, from the adjoining vessel.

The soot-water is previously prepared, by blending as
much soot with water as it will carry : it requires well mix-
ing, and after settling a day or so, is skimmed, generally a
second time.

This, of course, constitutes a highly concentrated liquid
manure, so powerful, that no plant would bear its application
undiluted. I, however, dilute it exceedingly, for I seldom
use more than one pint to three gallons of clear water ; our
large water-pots are about this measure, I believe.

The Culture of the Camellia. 219

I may here advert to the simplicity of its application. A
large water-pot full of this liquid manure is always kept be-
hind the camellia house, outside, of course. In watering, we
draw water from a tap at the back of the house, inside ; this
tap receives its water from a hydraulic ram, and the water-
pot of liquid manure being set beside the tap during the
watering, the operator, after nearly filling his pot at the tap,
pours about a pint of the powerful fluid into it. A couple
of pots-full will, in general, water the whole house, which
contains nearly a hundred plants.

I have, I fear, been explicit to tediousness about the liquid
manure ; my object was, however, to prevent, if possible,
any misconception, as liquid manures have, I fear, hitherto
been prejudiced by thoughtless and unskilful applications.

As Dr. Lindley recently observed, in his valuable paper,
" weak, clear, and often," should be the maxim ; indeed, it
is not quite clear to me, but we all use it too strong, even
thus diluted.

Insects. I must now draw my observations to a close, by
a few remarks on the insects which most infest the camellia ;
these are, as far as my experience goes, the scaly insect, and
the ordinary aphides.

I before alluded to the application of soft-soap water, for
the extirpation of the scaly insect ; my mode of application
is as follows : —

Soft-soap is beat up in warm water, after the rate of two
ounces to a gallon of water ; a vessel containing such mix-
ture is kept at hand, during the period of the formation of
the bud ; that is to say, from the time the flower-buds are
first formed, until they are nearly as large as peas.

I before observed, that regular syringings would be neces-
sary ; instead, then, of syringing twice a day with clear
water, I use this mixture, and after a week or two of this
treatment, the scale will have withered, or disappeared.

For the ordinary aphides, of course, fumigation is had
recourse to : the fly generally makes its appearance whilst
the young shoots are extending, and the operation had better
be gentle, and repeated two evenings in succession.

220 Floricultural and Botanical Notices.

In conclusion, I beg to say, that I am perfectly aware that
good camellia culture is carried out by plans somewhat dif-
ferent from the practice here detailed. The same, however,
may be said of the culture of most other tribes of plants,
and although I do not by any means arrogate to myself the
only good practice in this respect, I may add, that the course
here laid down will flower the camellia, during the dull win-
ter months, in high perfection.

Art. V. Floricultural and Botanical Notices of New and
Beautiful Plants : with descriptions of those more recently
introduced to, or originated in, American Gardens.

FoRSYTHiA ViRiDi'ssiMA. This ucw and beautiful shrub,
introduced by Mr. Fortune, from China, and fully described
in our volume for 1847, (XIII, p. 501,) has stood out the
past winter without the least injury, and is now swelling its
buds in spite of the untoward weather at this late season,
(April 16.) In New York and Philadelphia, the previous
years' experience proved it to be hardy in those localities,
but as many trees and shrubs suffer no injury by the sever-
ity of the winters there, which nearly or quite perish in the
latitude of Boston, we are glad to announce the perfect har-
diness of the Forsythia in our climate.

Cephalota'xus Fortu'ni. This is another yew-like ever-
green tree, sent here by Mr. Fortune, during his present
visit to China. It is said to be one of the most interesting
plants lately introduced. It is perfectly hardy in England,
and particularly adapted for the arboretum. It is stated by
Mr. Fortune, who found it about two hundred miles north of
Shang-see, to grow to a height of from forty to fifty feet ;
but as there is no well grown plant of it in Britain, but
little more can be said of the tree. It is, however, described
as being probably of a spreading or drooping habit, with dis-
tichous alternate or opposite leaves, about four inches long,
and of a linear tapering form. The male capsules of flowers
appear at the axils of the leaves. They are of globular form.

Floricultural and Botanical JNotices. 221

and about the size of a small pea, consisting of several imbri-
cated roundish scales, of a brownish and yellow color. A
plant in the Bagshot nursery, (near London) stood in the
open air the last winter, without being in the least injured.
It increases readily from cuttings, and will undoubtedly soon
become common. The seeds were sent by Mr. Fortune to
Mr. Standish, nurseryman of Bagshot, who possesses the
whole stock.

Cryptome^ria Japo'nica. a fine plant of this new cedar,
in our collection, about seven feet high, growing in a large
pot in the green house, is now showing its cones, and will
probably produce perfect seeds. Owing to its rarity and
high price, we have not yet ventured to turn our plant into
the open ground, though we do not doubt it will prove quite
hardy. The peculiarity of bearing its seeds so young will
soon make it more abundant and attainable at a lower price.

New and beautiful Cacti from New Mexico. We have
been fortunate in becoming the possessors of upwards of
twenty entirely new species of Cacti, from New Mexico, ob-
tained by Dr. Baker, in his journey across that country as
surgeon, attached to the army for establishing military posts.
Some of the Echinocacti are said to produce flowers as large
and brilliant colored as the paeony : others are particularly
interesting for the singular formation of their spines, their
color, shape, length, &c. ; a few Mammillarias are curious
from their exceedingly dwarf habit. We hope, ere long, to
give some account of the precise locality where they were
obtained from Dr. Baker himself: they will undoubtedly
prove to be exceedingly hardy, and probably capable of cul-
tivation in a very cool temperature, as Dr. Baker informs us
that the company to which he was attached was overtaken
by a most furious " Norther," which lasted upwards of forty-
eight hours, during which time the snow fell to the depth of
six inches. The Cacti were found at a very great elevation.

Yellow Camellia. Letters have recently been received
from Mr. Fortune, announcing the unexpected discovery of
a real Yellow Camellia! It proves to be one of the
Anemone flowered tribe, the exterior petals being French
white, and the central ones of a rich primrose yellow. He

222 Floricultural and Botanical Notices.

found it in blossom in a nursery garden, in one of the towns in
the north of China, which he had visited in his search after
tea-plants. This is gratifying intelligence to lovers of the
Camellia; for with such a variety for one of the parents,
our amateur cultivators or nurserymen, with the same suc-
cess which has rewarded their endeavors to improve the Ca-
mellia, would soon have yellow flowering varieties, as perfect
in form as the double white. It has long been supposed
that the Chinese possessed both yellow pgeonies and camel-
lias : a year or two since the yellow pasony was introduced
to Europe, and this is now about to be followed by area/ yel-
low Camellia. A few more such acquisitions as those which
have been made by Mr. Fortune, in his two visits to China,
would render his labors as valuable to the horticultural world,
as those of Dr. Siebold to Japan, or Douglas to America.

New Verbenas. Cultivators of this beautiful family have
already seen the announcement of the new Verbenas, viz. :
Robinson's Defiance, Anacreon, Satellite, and Rosy Morn, all
English seedlings : in addition to these, a fine striped seed-
ling has been produced by Messrs. Briell, of L. I. : and the
following, of most remarkable beauty, we have now in bloom
brought from Paris, by an amateur, last autumn, viz. ; St.
Margaret, Iphigene, and Reine de Jour. We shall fully de-
scribe them in our next number.

Seedling Camellias. Our collections of Camellias are
likely soon to be augmented by some remarkably fine seed-
lings, of American origin. In addition to upwards of a dozen
superior perfectly double varieties which we have produced,
and which have flowered the last three years, several
splendid seedlings have been raised by other cultivators of
this superb flower. Mr. John Feast, of Baltimore, informs
us, that "he hopes to show us before long some seedling
camellias that are worth having : three have already flow-
ered and more buds to open, descriptions of which he will
give us hereafter." This was under date of February 8th,
but we presume the difficulty and uncertainty of sending
flowers so far at that cold season, prevented him from doing
as he had intended. We trust, however, that Mr. Feast will
not omit to send a correct description of all his fine seedlings.

Floricultural and Botanical Notices. 223

Mr. Becar of Brooklyn, N. Y., has also raised three or four
fine camellias : and Mr. Hicks, of the same city, one of great
beantj^ Mr. Dunlap, of New York city, has produced a su-
perb white, which is now offered for sale : we have not seen
it, but understand it is a great acquisition. With so large a
number produced within the last four or five years, what
may we not anticipate for the future, when a much greater
number of seedlings will be annually raised !

Cape Gladioli. Mr. J. Feast, of Baltimore, sent us, some
time since, " a spike of flowers of a bulbous plant, which
he received from the Cape of Good Hope ; it grows about
three feet high, and emits a very pleasant odor at night. As
a flowering plant he prizes it highly, on account of the abun-
dance of blossoms which it produces during the latter part of
winter. The name he has not been able to ascertain,
(rladiolus tristis of the Encyclopadia of Plants does not
grow half as high." We suspect, however, that the species
is the G. tristis ; as the specimens corresponded precisely
with the figure in the Botanical Magazine. It is free flow-
ering, and a desirable winter bulb.

New Pyramidal German Asters. The Pyramidal German
Asters, are of recent introduction to our gardens, and are a
great addition to this showy and beautiful class of annuals.
Their flowers are equally as double and well formed as the
old kind, but instead of branching off" at right angles like
those, the lateral stems are quite erect, and when in full
bloom the plants form regular pyramids, o'c plumes of flowers,
a single one, cut off at the root, being in itself a perfect
bouquet. The variety of colors is nearly as great as the old
sort, and no flower garden can be complete without a bed of
this new and splendid kind.

113. Drymo^nia CRIST A^TA Tk/t^'. Crested-calyx Drymonia.

{GesnerikcQce.) Guinea.

A hot house plant ; growing one foot high ; with straw-colored flowers ; appearing in summer •,
cultivated in peat and leaf mould ; intTeased by cuttings. I'lore des Serres, 1648. PI. 390.

A very pretty gesneraceous plant, with thick, downy
leaves, of dwarfish habit, throwing out from the main stem
numerous, pendant laterals, and producing from the axils of
the leaves, numerous delicate straw colored blossoms, some-

224 Floricultural and Botanical Notices.

what resembling an achimenes, and blooming at the same
season. It will probably succeed with nearly the same treat-
ment as gesnerias, and will form an interesting addition to our
summer blooming plants. {Flore des Serves, September.)

D. punctata is now just coming into bloom in our collec-
tion, and its neat straw colored flowers, spotted with brown,
render it a pretty ornament of the warm greenhouse.

114. Epi'scia bi'color Hook. Two-colored Episcia.

( Ges7ierikcese. ) New Grenada.

A greenhouse plant ; grovvin? six inches high ; with white and violet flowers ; appearing In
summer ; culiivated in loam, peat and sand ; increased by olfsets. Flore des Serres. 1S48. pi. 398.

" A pretty addition to the family of gesneraceous plants,
which incontestably contribute so much to the decoration of
our greenhouses. Its ample velvety foliage, laid open to the
sun, and its innumerable white flowers, bordered with soft
violet, have a charming effect." It is quite unlike any of
our present known gesneraceous plants : and its introduction
to our gardens will be hailed with pleasure by every lover of
plants. It is a native of New Grenada, and was sent to Kew
by Mr. Purdie, collector for the royal botanic garden. Its
treatment is the same as the Achimenes and Gloxinias, and it
is increased in the same manner. (Flore des Se7Tes, October. )

115. Ho^YA BE'LLA Hook. Elegant Hoya. (^sclepiacZa-

cea.) Java.

a hot house plant ; growing four feet high ; with white and crimson flowers ; appearing in
spring ; cultivated in leaf mould, loam, and sand ; increased by cuttings. Flore des Serres. 1848.
pi. 399.

Imagine to yourself a neat shrubby plant, with fleshy leaves
of the size of the broad-leaved myrtle, and quite as deep
green and glossy : clothe this with clusters of our old and
well known wax plant (Hoya carnosa) and you have the
Hoya bella — saving that the flowers have a bright crimson
star in the centre, which gives it a brflliancy at once unique
and beautiful. It is one of the finest things that has been
recently introduced. Dr. Hooker has glowingly described its
flowers, as "resembling amethyst set in frosted silver."
Every body admires the wax-plant, so called, but its long
rambling shoots, and its dingy yellow foliage, render it at-

Floricultural and Bota?iical Notices. 225

tractive only when in bloom. H. bella, on the contrary, has
a shrubby habit, and deep green foliage, and even when out
of flower it must be a neat plant. It requires a warmer sit-
uation than the Hoya carnosa, and a light soil, composed of
leaf mould, peat, and sand. (Flore des Serves, October.)

116. Syphoca'mpylus glandulo^sus Hook. Glandulous
LEAVED Syphocampylus. (Lobel'ikcese.) New Grenada.

A greenhouse lilaiit ; growing two feet hi4h ; with crimson flowers ; apiiearinif in spring ; culti-
vated in loam, leaf niduld and sand ; increased by cultiiiss. Flore des Serres. 1S4H. Pi. 401.

" A beautiful carriage, ample foliage, and large rose colored
flowers distinguish this plant, and recommend its addition to
all choice collections." It is of easy cultivation. Turn the
plants out into the open ground, in a good soil, in June, pot
them in September, and place in a warm greenhouse, where
they will bloom all the spring. (Flore des Serres, October.)

117. Cle'matis indftt^sa loba^ta Hook. Lobed-leaved
CLEMATIS. (Ranunculucece.) New Zealand.

A climliing greenlinuse plant ; growing ten feet lii,h ; with white (lowers ; aiHiearing in summer :
cultivatei|in good rich soil ; increased by cuttings. Flore des Serres. 184S. PI. 40L'.

An elegant greenhouse clematis, with the habit of C.
smilacifolia, growing very rapidly, with dull green, deeply
cut foliage, and clothed with numerous axillary clusters of
very large pure white flowers, (measuring three inches in
diameter) having long bright yellow stamens. It was raised
from seeds, received at Kew, and flowered in 1849, in the
royal botanic garden. It is a splendid acquisition to our
limited number of handsome climbing greenhouse plants.
(Flore des Serres, October.)

118. Impa^tiens reopens Wight. Creeping Balsamine.

(Balsaminaccce.) Ceylon.

A greenhouse climber ; growing six leet high; with yellow (lowers; cultivated in loam and
leaf mould ; increased by cuttings. Flore des Serres. 1648. Pl. 403.

A curious and ornamental species of the balsamine, with a
running habit, very small foliage, and exceedingly large yel-
low flowers, shaded with orange. It may be treated in the
same manner as the common garden balsams : the plants
should be preserved over winter in the greenhouse, and
early in June turned out into a good rich soil in the border.

VOL. XVI. NO. V. 29

226 General Notices.

They will grow very rapidly, and if trained up to a pole or
over a trellis, will produce an abundance of flowers all sum-
mer. It will be a fine companion to the nasturtiums, cobaeas,
ipomseas, &-C. It is increased by cuttings and seeds. {Flore
des Serres, October.)

119. Zauschne^ria califo'rnica Prcsl. Californian
Zauschneria. {(Enotheracecc.) California.

a greenhouse plant ; growin? two feet high, with crimson scarlet flowers ; appearinj all sum-
mer ; cultivated In loam and leaf mould ; increased by cutliugs and seeds. Flore des Serres,
1848. Pi. 404.

A California plant, found near Monterey, by Mr. Hartweg,
who sent home seeds in 1847, and it flowered in the garden
of the Horticultural Society the same year. It has been
highly praised both as a greenhouse and summer bedding
;plant, vieing in beauty with the fuchsias, and flowering pro-
fusely all summer. It has a neat upright habit, with small
linear foliage, and from the axil of every leaf springs a long
.tubular, scarlet flower, with numerous projecting stamens,
and a prominent stigma, each of the color of the flower.
For brilliancy of effect, it is scarcely equalled by any other
plant. It is of easy cultivation, (Flore des Serres, Octohei.)

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. L General j\'otices.

Rare CoNiFERiE and Improvements in the Cairnies, at Perth-
shire, Scotland. (Continued from our volume for 1849, XV, p. 550.)
[We are gratified to learn, that there is so great an interest manifested by
our cultivators, in the cultivation of the Coniferse, and that tlie other portions
of this excellent article, which we copied into our last volume, have been so
generally read. The probability that most of the species which have proved
hardy in Scotland, will be so here, renders the information it contains, of
much value. We shall continue it hereafter, as it reaches us in the Journal
of Horticulture. — Ed.]

Of the section, Picea or Silver Fir, tliere may be noticed —
Picea Wehhiana of Loudon. — This is a Hymmalayan species of the first
order, and one of the most distinct of the whole section Picea. Found be-
tween .30° and 32° of N, lat., in the western range of the Himmalaya, at an
elevation of from 6500 to 10,000 feet It attains a height of from 80 to 90
feet, with a girth of about 12 feet, throwing its vigorous horizontal branches

General Notices. 227

in massive irregular whorls a great way from tlie trunk, which more than its
lofty stature render it one of tlie most striking products of the Himmalayan
forests. Nor is the general effect lessened by the depth of its robust dark-
green foliage, which invests it with an air of gloom, but of a gloom that
passes into grandeur, as the Alpine breeze attains sufficient force to throw
up the thickly clad boughs, all sparkling as with silver on the under side.
The tree bears purple cones, which are said to yield a dye of the same
color, while its wood equals in perfume and in tlie fineness of its grain, that
of the Jimiperus Bermudiana, or pencil wood. Though found at so great an
altitude, great complaints have reaches us of its having suffered much in
England, from spring frosts. Better hopes have been formed of it in Scot-
land. Nor have these been disappointed at the Cairnies. It succeeds, nay,
thrives here. The young trees are vigorous, witli summer shoots, the leader
perfect, and the growth upward, not running away into laterals merely, as it
is sometimes seen. It should be tried on a dry bottom, where its young
wood is lilvcly to get matured, its besetting infirmity being its liability to
injury by early winter or late spring frosts. It seems to do best, with Mr.
Patton, on a north exposure, where these evils are less likely to ensue. The
seeds are frequently obtained from Upper India, under the name of Picea
spedahiHs. Lindley has classed it as an Abies, A. Webbiana, whom End-
licher follows. Others have it Pinus Webbiana. But Loudon is generally
followed, in classing it as a Picea, P. Webbiana. The native name is CJiil-
roiv.

Picea Pindroio of Loudon, is another Hunmalayan kind, growing at an
elevation of 8000 to 9500 feet. It attains a height of 80 to 100 feet, of the
fairest form and straightest growth. It is grown, too, in the valley of the
Sutledge, as an indispensable concomitant of tlie vine culture. It offers to
realize here, the high character assigned to it for beauty, in its native hills.
While Loudon classes it among the Piceas, Endlicher sets it down as an
Abies, A. Pindrow, otliers as a Pinus, and Wallich as a Taxus, T. Lamber-
tiana. Found to be quite hardy at the Cairnies.

Picea Cephalonica of Loudon. — Found at the height of 5000 feet, on the
Black Mountain of Cephalonia, Mount Enos of tlie ancients. This beautiful
silver fir is not unworthy of its classic birth-place. A tree of not more than
60 feet, it is eminently distinct from all others of this section, by its assum-
ing the broad spreading habit and outline of the Cedar of Lebanon, and by
its assimilating in tlie general aspect of its foliage, to the beautiful Aurica-
ria Braziliensis, over which, however, it has tliis advantage, in its proved
hardihood. It is variously classed as Pinus, Abies, and Picea; Loudon,
who held it in high estimation, having it under tlie two last classes. It is
tlie Abies taxi/olia of one, and the Abies Luscombiana of anotlier of his
works ; while witii all others it is eitlier Picea, Abies, or Pinus Cephalonica.

Picea Pichta of Loudon. — The Pitch silver fir. This, in its native forests,
on Siberian and Altaian hills, is a remarkable tree, yet, though one of the
dwarfest of its section, it is for its perfect hardihood a valuable kind. Some
authorities question the claims upheld for this tree to be regarded as a spe-
cies, holding it to be a variety merely of the common P. pectinate, the whole

228 General Notices.

difference tliey assert, being in the price, the former being 2s. a plant, the
latter 2s. or 3s. a thousand, a conclusion which does not seem to be suffi-
ciently warranted. It is also variously classed as Pinus, Abies, and Picea ;
Loudon correctly classifying it under the latter description.

Picea A^obilis of Loudon. — Found in extensive forests near the cataracts
of Columbia, by Douglas, who spent some weeks in woods composed en-
tirely of this tree, " and, day by day," he says, " I could not cease to admire
it." Never, certainly, was admiration better bestowed ; for, among the
whole range of Coniferous trees, the lover of that famdy may point at this
superb species, as combining in itself all that is majestic in form and stat-
ure, beautiful in outline, and symmetrical in proportion. Attaining in its
native forests, the stupendous height of 180 feet, it throws off at equal inter-
vals, its horizontal branches, in whorls of such uniform order and arrange-
ment, that each series forms a beautiful dense circular platform of the deep-
est verdure, broader at the base, and gradually narrowing their radius as
they ascend. Neither is there tlie least approach to stiffness in this uni-
formity. On the contrary, from the fine incurvature, both of the dense fo-
liage and the lateral shoots, imparting a featlier-like softness to the branches,
the entire tree is invested with a grace to which no description can do jus-
tice. The tree here, as every where, is perfectly hardy, and, with the Deo-
dar and Douglas Spruce, should be the first aim of every pine grower to
possess. As it is one of the newest, plants here are but young.

Picea Grandis. — This giant of his race luxuriates in the humid valleys of
Northern California, attaining tliere the magnificent height of from 170 to
200 feet. It is another of those splendid acquisitions for which this country
is indebted to the exertions of the indefatigable, but ill-fated Douglas, who
introduced it in 1831. It is scarcely less conspicuous for its great stature,
than for the rich bright verdure of its foliage, which contributes in no small
degree to the grandeur of its general aspect. Its qualities, as a timber tree,
are unfortunately held in less estimation. It has proved here to be perfectly
hardy, and the young trees are making rapid progress. There is a speci-
men of this tree of surpassing beauty, at Dalquharran, in Ayrshire, the seat
of T. F. Kennedy, Esq., of Dunure, probably the largest in Scotland. It is
likewise variously classed as Pinus, Abies, and Picea — the latter being Lou-
don's classification, is now universally adopted.

Picea Pindrow of Loudon. — This tree is a native of the East, occupying
a range of from 8000 to 9500 on the Himmalayan Alps, and is variously
stated as reaching a height of from 80 to 100 feet. A beautiful advanced
specimen of this tree, will be found in the Botanic Garden of Edinburgh.
Here the trees are young, but vigorous. Planted in 1845, about 3 or 4
inches, tliey are now about 3 feet high. Don apud Royle treats of this tree
in glowino- terms: — "Arbor formossissima trunca strictissimo, ramis verti-
cillatis, patentissimis, dense foliosis." It is, in point of picturesque effect,
behind few of the species. Throwing its strong, thickly clad branches far
from the trunk, and wide apart, it presents irresistible chai-ms to the painter,
and the lover of wild untutored Nature ; and hence well suited to contrast
with the forms of its more symmetrical congeners. But with the very high-

General Notices. 229

est claims in this particular, its extensive growtli will be discouraged by the
consideration ot its alleged unprofitableness as a timber tree — a conclusion,
probably, too hastily arrived at. There is some confusion between this tree
and P. Khutrow of Royle P. (Smithiana of Lambert) and P. Morinda, inso-
much so, tliat it is far from clear that they are not all one and the same
thing.

P'lcea Hudsonii. — This must not be confounded with Pinus Iludsonica, or
Hudson's Bay Pine, otlierwise Pinus Banksiana. Picea Hudsonii is a dwarf
kind, and better fitted for the lawn than the arboretum. It is yet new, and
rather scarce — consequently the plants here are young. Hardy.

Picea P. Fraseiii of London, is anotlier dwarf kind, Endlicher rating it
as attaining only 10 feet. This is under the mark. It is a much-branched,
compact growing kind, and likewise well adapted for a lawn. Found on the
higher mountains of Carolina and Pennsylvania. There is no doubt about
its being hardy.

Picea pinsapo. — This is a beautiful kind, a native of Mount Atlas, assum-
ing mucli the appearance of the Picea balsamea, attaining a height of from 60
to 70 feet. It is a handsome, though a very slow growing, species — qual-
ities which may recommend it more as an ornament for a lawn, than as a tim-
ber tree. Hardy.

I cannot close this section, without again directing attention to the mag-
nificent row of Picea balsamea on these lands, probably unrivalled in Great
Britain. At 40 feet of height, more than double the height assigned to this
species by Loudon, there is not the least appearance of decay. Already far
beyond the age to which that great authority restricted this sort, the contin-
ued healtli and vigor of these trees promise a still larger growth, and a still
greater longevity.

There are here also a great many other species in this section, of which,
as less beautiful and novel, I have made no mention ; while some others I
have already alluded to as falling under the section Ahielinea, but which the
weight of authority would class among the Piceaa; such as the beautiful
Abies, or rather Piceafe JVordmanniana, and one or two others, as to whose
claim to rank in this division, there is greater room to doubt. The two sec-
tions, it must be allowed, run into each other by such imperceptible grada-
tion, that it is almost impossible to rear up a boundary between them, and
the sooner some great name sets about doing it away entirely, tlie better for
all parties, but especially the often perplexed and imposed upon grower of
this most beautiful order.

In my next and concluding article, I will dispose of the section Cupres-
sineee, &c., and lesser divisions of this all-interesting family ; and, at the same
time, make a brief allusion to some rare and well advanced specimens in
the other branches of the family, grown on the adjacent estate of Glenal-
mond, the property of James Murray Patton, Esq., tlie brother of Mr. Patton
of the Cairnies. — [To be continued.)

On Growing Fuchsias as Snow Plants. — If properly treated, fuchsias
can be had in good condition for showing, in September, as well as at any time

230 General Notices.

during the whole season. My mode of treatment is as follows : — About the
first of August I go over my old plants and select cuttings, making choice
of fine, short-jointed healthy shoots, the whole cutting not to exceed two
inches long ; I then take as many three -inch pots as I have cuttings, and fill
them with a compost of equal parts leaf-mould and silver sand, well mixed
together, and place a cutting in the centre of each pot. This is a far better
system than striking a number of them in a large pot, and potting them off
after they are struck ; in fact, I would recommend the single pot system for
all plants, to be grown for fine specunens ; it prevents any check they may
receive in potting off"; this check may appear trifling to some, but it has its
own effects on the fuchsia, which should never receive the least check at
any stage of its growth, neither should it get too much excitement, but be
grown slowly. After the cuttings have been placed in the pots, the best
way to insure their striking, is to place them on a dung-bed, in which there
is moderate heat ; here they will strike freely. It will be necessary to shade
tliem with a mat, during sunshine, till they are properly established, Avhen
they should be exposed to the open air when the weather is favorable, but
they should be carefully covered during heavy rains and cutting winds,
either of which would injure them. They must be watered freely overhead,
night and morning, with soft rain water, and no other kind of water should
be used during the whole growth of the fuchsia, as it will answer the pur-
pose better than any liquid manure. After the plants have filled the pots
with roots, it ivill be time to shift them into six-inch pots, using a compost
of equal parts loam, turfy peat, and leaf-mould. If the peat is not sandy, it
should be well mixed with silver sand ; and the pots should be well drained,
as these are the pots they will have to stand the winter in. Before removing
them to the frame, clear away the dung, and place the frame on the ground ;
place some deals at a convenient height, as a temporary stage, to keep them
near the glass ; continue the same treatment as before, till the first appear-
ance of frost, when it will be necessary to cover with mats, during the
night ; and before the severe weather of winter sets in, place a good lining
of straw, about one foot thick, round the outside of tlie frame, cover it
neatly with spruce branches, to keep it from blowing about witli tlie wind,
and, in severe frost, place a good covering of straw below the mats ; if this
covering is well attended to, the plants will suffer little from the winter, and
will be in better health tlian under the protection of fire-heat ; water them
pretty freely during the whole winter, and expose tliem to the open air on
every favorable occasion. By the first of March they will be growing freely,
and if tlieir roots have filled the pots, it is time for anotlier shift into nine-inch
pots, using the same compost as befi)re. The young roots should be care-
fully protected from injury. The plants will now require to be placed in a
large pit or frame, that can be well ventilated at back and front, so as to admit
of a free circulation of air among the plants. They should be kept at a
good distance from each other, and bricks should be placed below them, to
raise them near the glass; the bricks may be removed, one by one, as the
leading shoots come too near the glass ; strong growing shoots should be
topped or pinched off, and any that may incline to cross the others, should

General Notices. 231

be regulated ; it is also necessary to turn thoni every day to keep them from
growing one-sided, and water should be freely applied overhead, by means
of a fine rose. When the Aveatlier is favorable, they sliould liave the full en-
joyment of the open air. As soon as they have filled the pots with roots
again, whicli will be about the month of May, they sliould be shifted into
twelve-inch pots, using the same kind of soil as before. Great care of the
roots will now be necessary, for any injury tliey might receive at this time,
would be apt to throw them into flower. The number required for showing',
(the best, of course,) should be selected, and when the weather is very hot,
and during strong sun-shine, they must be shaded-in with gauze cloth, such
as is used for shading greenhouses. Any flower bud tliat may appear, must
be nipped, from time to time, till the plants have attained tlieir full size. By
the end of June they will have filled the pots with roots again, when it will
be necessary to shift them once more into pots one size larger, to keep them
growing a little longer, for whenever they are pot-bound they get into
flower. About the second week in August, place them in the greenhouse,
to flower, and If the greenhouse is provided with a shade, tliey will be in
good condition for showing by the 18th September. — A Scotch Journey-
man.— [If any one Avish to follow this practice, they may do so with great
certainty as to the result, such is the clear descriptive style of our young
correspondent ; but we should now like him to show us, with equal clear-
ness, wherein consists the advantage of this protracted, and necessarily ex-
pensive system, over the ordinary one of cutting the plants down and grow-
ing them from tlie root, commencing in March or April. Because, by this
plan, plants 5 or 6 feet high, may be in flower long before the tune speci-
fied by "A Scotch Journeyman," although the period occupied in their
growth is less than half the time which his system requires. — ( Gard. Jour.,
p. 84, 1850.)

On the Culture of Begonias. — In your Journal of the 19th, I observe
an article on the culture of begonias, on which I beg to make a few remarks.
I cannot agree with your correspondent, when he says, spring-struck cut-
tings of begonia nitida are now handsome flowering plants. If he keeps
them, his spring-struck cuttings, stopped back now and then, will make nice
plants in ten or twelve months, but not handsome flowering plants. I have
found it to take two years at least, before they can be termed flowering
plants. It is not my way, to force them into lanky, bare stems, and leaves a
mile apart; they will be far more graceful and beautiful, with the same
number of leaves and branches and flowers, in one-third of the usual space.
I do not say plants should be stunted, but, I say the skill of the gardener is
shown in producing a plant of the best form that it can bo grown — ricliness
in foliage can never be attained when the number of leaves tliat should oc-
cupy a foot, are stretched out to a yard, and when the quantity of bloom
that should grace a specimen of a foot and a half higli, are sprinkled over
two yards of half-naked stalks; therefore, slow growth is what I recom-
mend. This slow growth can be attained by omitting part of the exciting
compost, keeping lower temperature, especially at night, and giving plenty
of au whenever it can be done safely. By tliis practice, in two years, cut-

232 General Notices.

tings of begonia nitida will make nice flowering plants. Begonia floribunda
is a most excellent plant for flowering through the winter ; B. insignis is a
splendid thing, and nearly as good as floribunda ; B. manicata is also a
beautiful thing ; B. fuchsioides, although not so good as some of the others,
its scarlet flowers look well, and the plant also, when it is grown dwarf and
bushy. B. albo-coccinea is really a splendid little plant, and ought to be in
every collection ; it is almost a permanent flowering tiling — it is in flower
nine months out of the twelve. These plants can be grown well in a mix-
ture of rotted turf, leaf-mould, peat, and sand. I quite agree with your cor-
respondent, that the night temperature should be lower than is usually given
to stove plants ; also, that tliere is much to be done in crossing and pro-
ducing interesting varieties. — (76. p. 84, 1850.)

Forcing Flowers. — Having read Mr. Ford's letter of the 12th of Janua-
ry, also your own remarks on early flower-forcing, it occurs to me, tliat if gar-
deners would, (through the medium of your Journal,) communicate to each
other their experience on that subject, it would, doubtless, prove as interest-
ing to many of your readers, as the discussion on bedding-out plants in the
flower-garden, has done. And as the producing of cut flowers in winter, is
a subject I am obliged to give a considerable share of my attention to, I
will, with your permission, offer a few remarks as to what tilings I find most
useful for tliat purpose, my method of treatment, &c., hoping that some of
your more able contributors will be induced to take up tlie subject. I will
begin with the rose, the universally-acknowledged queen of flowers, and
few plants are better adapted for the purpose of forcing, providing, always,
that they are Avell established in their pots, in suitable soil, &c. With the
tea-scented varieties, (on which I principally depend for midwinter supply,)
my practice is to keep them plunged in cinder-ashes, on tlie north side of a
wall, during tlie summer months, pinching out the flower buds whenever
tliey appear, until about tlie middle of October. I tlien put them into a
lio-ht forcing-house, keeping them pretty near to the glass, and in a night
temperature not under 50 degrees, giving air during tlie day, when the
weather permits, stimulating them with weak liquid manure. By this treat-
ment, I generally induce tlieiii to produce blooms, more or less abundantly,
throughout the winter and spring months. Witli the hybrid perpetual and
Provence roses, early blooms are more difficult to produce. I, this season,
introduced a quantity of these varieties into a moderate heat, about tlie 15th
of November, and the first blooms were cut on tJie 21st of the present
month (January.) The Provence, or common cabbage-roses, will not ex-
pand before the first week in February. I may further add, tliat the latter
have been forced every winter for the last four years. Hardly second to
the rose, in point of request with me, is tlie Anna Boleyn pink, which I find
possible to have in flower ten months out of the twelve, by pursuing the fol-
lowing system: — I layer them about tlie same time and in the same manner
as carnations are generally increased ; when well rooted, about the begin-
ning of September, they are cut from the stools, and planted in rows, on a
sheltered border. About tlie end of March following, they are potted into
eight-inch pots, and plunged in a north border ; whenever they show flower,

General Notices. 233

the bud is carefully pinched out ; sometimes this operation required to he re-
peated. About the beginning of October they are placed on shelves, close
to the glass, in a light greenhouse or vinery, and by giving a little heat, as
the season advances, they generally produce blooms until Christmas.
These, it will be observed, are retarded plants, not forced ; and to succeed
them, are in readiness five or six hundred plants, in sLx-inch pots, prop;ired
as follows : — ■Plants that had been forced the preceding winter, are turned
out of their pots about the middle of April, and immediately layered. The
layers are generally well rooted by the beginning or middle of August,
when they are at once put into their flowering pots, and when established,
liberally supplied with water. Two hundred plants, so treated, were put
into the forcing-house, at the same time as the Provence roses, (15th No-
vember,) and blooms will be fit to cut in a day or two, or about the first of
February. I intended to notice a few more winter flowering plants, but
must defer doing so for the present. — Hawthorn. [A very good and prac-
tically-useful paper. We should like much to hear about the other things
alluded to.]— (M, p. 84, 1850.)

PoT-cuLTURE OF ViNEs. — Notwithstanding the many useful articles, from
time to time, (on the pot-culture of the vine,) which have appeared in the
Journal, I have to trouble you by asking a few questions, trusting you will^
from your own practical experience, give your ideas through the JournaL
The vines I mean to force this year, are two years from the eye. I grew
them last year in pots, known by the name of No. 1, 15 by 16 inches. The
compost and manner of potting, were as follows : — The compost was equal
parts top-spit from an old pasture, (rather light,) and vegetable mould, with
an admixture of broken bricks, four inches of which were placed as dram-
age at the bottom, with one inch o? raw broken bones on the top, over which
was placed a thin circular-cut turf. The mould and the plant were then in-
serted, after shaking and loosening the roots, the latter being carefully
spread. I may mention here, that I used every precaution in placing the
drainage, to prevent the roots getting through. The plants were trained to
one rod, which I allowed to grow to about seven feet, and then stopped
them ; and they are fine, firm, short-jointed rods. But I found, on turning
tliem out for the winter, they were all more or less rooted through the pots
in the mould in which they were plunged. I shall now describe tlie pit,
they were and are to be grown in. It is 16 feet by 17, with span roof, at an
angle of 45 degrees, heated by water, in tanks 2i feet wide on each side,
and 2 feet passage in the centre. The tanks are covered witli slate Jlags
an inch thick, on which 6 inches of rubble stones are laid, covered by tliin-
cut turf, on which I used to grow melons. The vines will be trained up the
rafters. First query is. What length of shoot should I leave, and how many
buds or eyes should be left? Should I shift the plants into new compost?
Is the compost a right sort ? Or, would it be better to have two troughs of
wood, made tlie Avhole lengtli of the house, wide enough to hold tlie pots,
and filled with compost, and give a fresh top-dressing, allowing the roots to
get through into the troughs at will ? Would it be better, that the part of"
the tank unoccupied by the troughs, should be stripped of tlie turf, and the
VOL. XVI. NO. V. 30

234 General Notices.

rubble stones laid bare, or covered with moss, to give more atmospheric
heat, and gentle steaming when water is applied? Have you ever seen a
fair crop by pot culture ? Your answer and opinion will, sir, oblige your
humble and obedient servant, James MacLean.

According to my experience in growing pot vines, Mr. MacLean's man-
agement of his is correct, both in the potting, the compost used, and the kind
of pit they are intended to be fruited in. I have always succeeded best with
young vines, say two years from the eye, in put-culture. The compost I
used, was tlie turf from a magnesian limestone rock, without manure of any
kind. The size of the pot tlie same as Mr. MacLean's. I prune the canes
back to about 4 feet, according to strength, and having painted them with
the lime and sulphur mixture, bend them circularly, tying the point of the
cane to a stake ; tliis makes them break more regularly, and they can be
tied to the rafters afterwards. I never leave more than six or eight bunches
on a plant, so as to have the bunches and berries fine. I am of opin-
ion Mr. MacLean's vines will not suffer from their roots having grown
through the pots into the mould where they were plunged, if they have
filled the pots well with young roots, and have had a good rest in the open
air, or in a cold house. It is a great error in forcing vines too soon, if they
have not been habitually prepared for it. Mr. MacLean's first query is —
" What is tlie length of cane to be left, and how many eyes ?" I should
leave the canes 4 feet long, and disbud all the smallest eyes after they break,
leaving about eight bunches on. I should not shift the plants into new com-
post, as I never found any advantage in disturbing the ball of a young vine
when it was intended for fruiting : they do best in the pots where they have
been grown all summer, and it is astonishing what a small pot will produce
two or three bunches of grapes, if the soil is suitable, and they make plenty
of fibres in it. I have no doubt, if Mr. MacLean did not want his pit for
anything else, that his young vines would do well in the two wooden
troughs, adding a top-dressing of chopped turf, and letting the roots wander
at pleasure. He might, then, leave his canes 6 feet long, and leave more
bunches on, and a little fresh compost added every year, would keep them
in full bearing. The part of the tank unoccupied by the troughs, if cov-
ered with moss, would facilitate the escape of heat and evaporation. I have
grown a fair crop by pot-culture ; but where vines can be planted perma-
nently in the borders, and in a suitable house, I do not see any utility in it,
except for a few very early ones in March, for a succession. Besides, to
succeed well with grapes in pots, a fresh supply must be got ready every
year, as they rarely do well after one year's forcing. To an amateur or
gardener, who has, perhaps, one house or pit only, and has to grow different
kinds of plants, vines in pots, if well managed, would be a source of great
gratification to them, and amply repay for all the care taken in tlieir culti-
vation.—W. TiLLERT.— {/rf., p. 85, 1850.)

On the Cultivation of Achimenes. — My mode of cultivating the dif-
ferent species, is as follows : — As soon as they have done flowering, they are
placed under cover, in some convenient corner, and watered two or three
times, with a view to aid the swelling of the tubers ; for they grow for some

General Notices. 235

time after they have done blossoming. They are tlien allowed to become
quite dry, previously to being cut down ; the pots are laid on their sides, and
piled up one above the other, in any snug corner, below a stage ; but they
should not be exposed to a lower temperature than 35° ; 40° minimum Avould
be safer. They winter better in the pots they were flowered in, than if
taken out and placed in drawers, as, under such circumstances, they are
apt to rot.

With a view to keep up the best series of successions, the first batch of
tubers should be started in tlie beginning of February, the second, in the
beginning of April, and tlie third, in tlie latter end of May, or at any time
between these periods, according to circumstances; but if excited later than
this, they would do little service to the amateur who has not the assistance
of a stove.

The tubers (before starting them) should be shaken out of the pots in
which they have flowered, placed in small shallow pans, with a little fine
earth about tliem, and transferred to a cucumber or melon frame, in which a
temperature of between 70° and 80° is kept up. But if a heat of this kind
cannot be obtained, tlien 60°, with rather an abundance of atmospheric
moisture, will suit them equally well. Move the plants from the pans in
which tliey were excited, when they are an inch or two in height, and put
them into their flowering pots at once. In doing this, tlie requisite number
of tubers is placed at equal distances over the pot — five is tlie number we
employ for a wide moutlied 6-inch pot : we prefer this pot to the more up-
right kind, for it contains a greater surface, and the roots of Achimenes run
rather shallow. For growing fine specimens, pans should be used a foot
over, and 6 inches deep, ten plants being employed to fill the pan.

The soil I use is a mixture of turfy-loam and peat, witli a little well-de-
composed cowdung and silver sand, all in rather a rough state, with a good
proportion of drainage. In filling the pots, I place the rougher soil at the
bottom, and fill up with the finer. The plants are then inserted, witli their
tubers, an inch below the surface. They are watered with a little chilled
water, (using a fine-rosed pot) to settle the soil about their roots. Thus pot-
ted, they are again placed in heat (about 60°,) with rather a moist atmos-
phere, and plunged in a gentle bottom heat.

Tubers excited in April, and after that, will not require this heat; and
even those first started, would do well without plunging, but I find them to
succeed better with it. Where a stove and plunging materials cannot be
had, a dung bed frame, with a gentle bottom heat, would effect the same
purpose, with this precaution, that a little air must be given at night, in-
creasing the supply by day ; and in bright weather the plants will require
shading, or the action of the sun on their leaves, when covered with the va-
pour from the bed, will blotch them, which would spoil their beauty. In-
deed, however well you treat them afterwards, all of them like a little shade,
by which the leaves are kept more healthy, and tlie flowers brighter, and the
latter hang longer. A late vinery, or a greenhouse, with creepers up the
rafters, suits them very well.

The plants should be stopped back when they have grown 4 or 5 inches

236 Domestic Notices.

in height ; this causes them to break freely, and makes them handsome. I
allow grandiflora to grow about 9 inches high, before I stop it ; this prevents
it from making shoots, but it has the tendency of producing a greater abun-
dance of flowers, and when a pan of it is well tied out, it is a handsome ob-
ject. I stop back pedunculata twice, leaving four eyes each time to break
from ; and I shift them out of the 6-inch pots when the latter becomes pretty
full of roots, into a 9-inch size, as I find this is not too large for this variety.
In this way, I have grown pedunculata with fine effect ; its flowers being,
in my opinion, little inferior to those of picta. This last named species
seems to be better adapted for winter culture ; and when grown in a moist
stove, the foliage puts on that beautiful marbling which makes it appear
very interesting.

Several of the varieties of Achimenes are subject to mildew. As soon
as you see it, attack it witli sulphur vivum, which prevents its spreading.
On a watchful eye after this, and a few slight fumigations, depends greatly
the success of the cultivator. — [Jour, of HorL, p. 219, 1850.)

Art. n. Domestic JVotices.

Rhode Island Horticultural Society. — The annual meeting of this
Society was held on tJae 30th of January last, and the following gentlemen
elected officers, for the current year : —

President — Stephen H. Smith.

Vice President — Alexander Duncan.

Treasurer — Gilbert Congdon.

Corresponding Secretary — John Kingsbury.

Recording Secretary — George Thurber.

Executive Committee — Stephen H. Smith, ex officio; John J. Stimson,
Chairman; William S. Patten, George Thurber, William Megee Snow,
C. B. Manchester.

Committee on Fruits — Levi C. Eaton, Chairman; Stephen H. Smitli,
Owen Mason, George B. Peck, John J. Stimson, Ellis Pitcher, Lewis
Dexter.

Committee on Flowers — George Hunt, Clmirman ; Richard Dalglish, Wil-
liam Megec Snow, William Nisbet, William H. Dyer, George Anderson.

Committee on Vegetables — Adam Antliony, Chairman; William Viall,
George L. Clarke.

It was voted to accept the invitation of the Rhode Island Society for tlie
Encouragement of Domestic Industry, to cooperate with them in holding a
Cattle Show and Fair, during the coming autumn ; and William S. Patten
and George B. Peck were appointed to act with their committee of arrange-
ments.

The report of the fall exhibition for 1849, is published in the Providence
Journal. There was a very fine display of fruits of various kinds.

Domestic Notices. 237

Hovey's Seedling as a Forcing Strawberry. — At a recent meeting
of tlie Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, some fine specimens of strawber-
ries were exhibited, from tlie garden of the President, Caleb Cope, Esq., com-
prising the following varieties : — Hovey's Seedling, British Queen, Buist's
Early May, Keen's Seedling, Sciota and Gushing. Mr. Daniels, the gar-
dener, stated, that the " British Queen, though a staminate variety, exhibits
in flavor and prolificncss a decided superiority over the others, and can be
strongly recommended for forcing. Hovey's Seedling, Early May, and
Keen's Seedling, are all good for forcing. The Burr's New Pine Avas tried,
but did not succeed well." Mr. Strong, of Brighton, has exhibited, on sev-
eral occasions, tlie present spring, some excellent specimens of Hovey's
Seedling, tlius proving it to be excellent for forcing. — Ed.

Clinton County Agricultural Society, N. Y. — This society, re-or-
ganized last year, holds its eighth annual exhibition the coming fall, at
Keeseville, N. Y., and offers very liberal premiums for agricultural, horti-
cultural, and floricultural objects. The premiums for fruits, are principally
books, and among them, we are happy to learn, are copies of the Fruits of
America, and Magazine of Horticulture. The premium for the best and most
extensive collection of fruits, is a complete Volume, of 12 Numbers, of the
former work. As Clinton county is celebrated for its fine fi-uit, we do not
doubt, should the season be favorable, tliat the show will be exceedingly
interesting. We wish tlie society every success.

American Seedling Verbenas. — A writer in the Horticulturist, states,
that " it is not to be denied that most of our Seedling verbenas are not
worthy a place in our gardens." Rather a wholesale remark, and before
asking any one to believe it, it would have been well to have stated what op-
portunity the writer had had for acquiring so much information. However, he
tells his means of knowing, by stating that the best ones are, J, K. Polk,
Buist's Eclipse, Boll's Major Ringgold, and Hogg's Bicolor Grand iflora,
and, in the absence of a better, White Queen. Of sixteen varieties he
has, he intends to throw all away and confine himself to ten alone, includ-
ing Defiance, Anacreon, Satellite, and Rosy Morn, which he considers the
best in the country." Now, this shows tliat the writer knows nothing about
the GOOD American verbenas. We cultivate fifty named varieties, ex-
clusive of all he names, some of which, we venture to assert, are superior
to any, — and, we belive, the greater part, — that have been imported. Some
of these are Weld's Susanna, Barnes's Exquisite, Conner's Eximia, Ell-
wanger & Barry's Henry Clay, Brunette, and our own Seedlings Eclipse,
Othello, Suzette, Gem, Anne Maria, Eliza, Apollo, and some others ; as
two-colored sorts, the first three surpass any thing from England, and as a
white, nothing has been seen Avhich will compare in purity of color with Su-
zette. Robinson's Defiance we have only seen under unfa'orable circum-
stances, in pot cultivation ; but, as to Beauty Supreme, except its large truss-
es, it is inferior to half of tlie fifty varieties we have. Eclipse has so far been
the best scarlet in cultivation ; but Robinson's Defiance may surpass it. We,
therefore, advise writers, before tliey make such statements as we have
quoted, to obtain some of the best American Seedlings, and not undertake

238 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

to advise amateurs to throw away all but the ten kinds he names, when he
has only seen one-fifth of the fine varieties which have been raised. — Ed.

Errata. — In the March number, the following typographical errors
were made in Prof. Russell's article : — Page 98, eighth line, for there read
these : Page 99, eighth line from botu^m, for tidorum read tectbrum : Page
102, near the middle, for Dellenii read DilUnu : Page 103, eleventh line
from bottom, insert in, between " found" and " large :" Page 106, sixteenth
line from bottom, for spring read spiny.

Art. III. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, March 16, 1850. Exhibited. — From W. C. Strong, fine Hovey's
Seedling strawberries, and plants of the same, in pots, with fruit. From E.
Burns, Keen's Seedling strawberries. From J. Washburn, fine Easter
Beurre Pears, well ripened, and handsomely colored.

Vegetables. — From E. Burns, a brace of Sion House cucumbers, and
new potatoes.

March 23. An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, — the
President in the chair.

It was voted, that the Annual Address of the President, with tlie Report
of the Special Committee, be printed for the use of the members.

A communication was received from Gen. Dearborn, enclosing an ac-
count of the rise and progress of the Society, since its organization, — pre-
pared for publication in the last number of the Society's Transactions. The
communication was referred to a special committee, consisting of tlie Pres-
ident, B. V. French, and C. M. Hovey.

A letter was received from Dr. J. A. Kennicott, of the Grove, 111.

The Committee of Arrangements were requested to report upon the expe-
diency of holding a semi-annual exhibition in June.

George Yendell, Charlestown, was admitted a member. Adjourned
sine die.

Exhibited. — Fruit : From J. F. Allen, Black Hamburg grapes, of the
new crop ; also. Black St. Michael figs. From E. Burns, very good Keen's
Seedling strawberries.

Vegetables. — From E. Burns, half a dozen Allen's Victory cucumbers.

March 30. Exhibited. — Fruits : From John Gordon, fine Easter Beurre
pears. From E. Burns, fine Keen's Seedling strawberries.

Vegetables. — From T. Needham, a brace each, of Barnes's Man of
Kent, Black Spine, Young Champion, and another variety ; also, a small
quantity of Early White potatoes.

Jlpril 6. The stated quarterly meeting of the Society was held to-day, —
the President in the chair. [The proceedings of tliis meeting not having
been received, will be given in our next.]

Exhibited. — Fruits : From E. Burns, Keen's Seedling strawberries, well
ripened and of high flavor.

Horticultural Operations for May. 239

HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS

FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines in the greenhouse or vinery, will now be in full bloom, and
will require rather more attention than last month. As soon as the flowers
begin to open, discontinue syringing/or the season. If the finest grapes are
wanted, with a good rich bloom upon them, never syringe after that period.
Many, otlierwise beautiful grapes, are spoiled from not attending to this.
While the vines are in bloom, and until the fruit is all set, raise the temper-
ature a few degrees ; air early in the morning, and close up early in the af-
ternoon ; such of the vines as are shy setters, should be daily shaken, in
order to dislodge the pollen : by attention to this, an even crop may be ob-
tained on all kinds. After the fruit is formed, resort to a very free watering
of the paths and floors of the house, botli morning, noon, and night, so as
to keep up a genial and moist atmosphere. As soon as the grapes are of
the size of small peas, tliinning should be commenced ; this should be done
carefully, so as to retain the natural form of the bunch; attend also, to
shouldering the large clusters. Be on tlie look out for insects ; and if the
red spider appears, fumigate with sulphur. Plants raised from eyes or cut-
tings, should now be re-potted, and brought forward in good heat. The last
of the month is a fine time for planting out new vines, if the border is ready;
if not, it may be delayed tUl the middle of June. Vines in pots, should be
abundantly watered.

Strawberry Beds should now be raked, all weeds dug out, and put in
order for the season; if the vines are too thick, dig under all the superfluous
plants ; the crop will be better than to have the beds too crowded.

Fruit Trees, of all kinds, may be grafted now ; those budded last fall,
should be headed off", and have the ties loosened, if not already done.

Fig Trees should now be liberally watered, occasionally using liquid
manure, or guano.

Raspberry Plantations should be dug and put in order; tie the canes
up to strong stakes, and head off" the tops down to where the wood is stout
and well ripened.

Plum Trees — as soon as the fruit begins to form, attend to the destruc-
tion of tlie curculio, by shaking the trees every day ; this is the surest way
to get rid of these depredators.

flower department.

Annual Flower Seeds will now require to be planted in tlie open
ground ; and as every garden should have a liberal quantity of them, we
name a few of the most showy ones ; referring to the catalogues for a gen-
eral collection. German Asters ; Larkspurs, of all kinds ; Stocks, of all
kinds ; Coreopsis, the several sorts ; Clarkias, Candytufts, Nemophilas, Go-
detias. Dwarf Convolvulus, Phlox Drummondi, Portulacas, Sweet Peas, Bal-
sams, Marigolds, &c. Make the earth fine where the seeds are planted, and

240 Horticultural Operations for May.

do not cover too deep; about an eighth of an inch is sufficient depth for
all, except the Convolvulus and Sweet Peas. Larkspurs should be planted
where they are to flower, as they do not bear removal well.

Ranunculuses, planted in March, will now be coming up, and should be
attended to ; as soon as they are well above the ground, tlie soil around tlie
roots should be made rather firm, to prevent them from being injured by dry-
ing winds ; the beds may also be top-dressed tlie last of the month, with an
inch of very old cow manure, or sand.

Carnations and Picotees, wintered in frames, may now be planted
out, in the beds where tliey are to remain to blossom. Seedlings of tliis
year may be also set out.

Chrysanthemums may yet be increased by dividing the roots, or by
cuttings.

Gladioluses, and other summer bulbs, may now be planted in the open
ground.

Hollyhocks may now be transplanted Avith success.

Japan Lilies should be shifted into their blooming pots, if not already
done.

Pansies raised in frames, may now be transferred to beds in the open
ground.

Heaths may be now removed from the greenliouse to cold frames, to
harden them off, preparatory to plunging, or planting them in the open
ground.

Dahlias may now be brought forward in frames, and planted out tlie last
of the month.

Achimenes should be repotted.

Fuchsias will need a shift into larger pots.

Tea, Bengal, Noisette, and other roses, may be planted out in the
borders, this month.

Camellias will now have nearly finished their growth, and will be setting
their flower buds. For good advice, at this period, see a most excellent ar-
ticle in a previous page.

IxiAS, AND OTHER Cape Bulbs, dono blooming, should be placed away
on a dry shelf.

Cyclamens may now be sheltered in a cold frame.

Pelargoniums will now be coming into bloom, and should be liberally
supplied with water, using liquid guano occasionally. Shade them wliile in
bloom, and they will retain their beauty longer.

Verbenas may be planted out the last of the month.

Herbaceous Plants of all kinds, may now be divided and reset.

Hydrangeas may now be propagated from cuttings.

Hardy Roses should now be pruned ; head in all the Moss, Province,
Alba, and Damask roses, quite short, and leave the shoots of the Hybrid
Chinas rather long, only cutting away tlie small wood.

Double Sunflowers may now be planted.

Veronicas should now be shifted into larger pots, if fine specimens are
wanted.

Orange Trees may yet be grafted.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTURE.

JUNE, 1850.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.
Art. I. Production of Hybrids. By P.

The chairman of a committee of the Massachusetts Horti-
cultural Society has, in his very valuable report, recently pub-
lished in your magazine, (p. 184), the following expression :
" With respect to some species of fruits, it is true, so great im-
provements have been in this way effected, [by new seed-
ling specimens,] as to leave little to be hoped for." With all
due deference to the opinion of a gentleman who has done,
and is still doing, so much to controvert the statement, we say,
that from these improvements Avhich have been made in the-
productions of the earth, we learn not to be content with any
results that have yet been reached ; and every variety, better
than all previous ones, either in agriculture, horticulture, or
floriculture, seems at once to suggest a best yet to be dis-
covered.

But little attention has yet been given on this side of the
Atlantic to the production of hybrid varieties, either of flow-
ers, fruits, or vegetables. A few facts, familiar from the
nature of the cases rather than from any distinct observation,
are, indeed, recognized by those who have had any thought
upon the subject. It is not probable that every new name
describes a new sort ; nor that every new sort, though the
latest, is the best of all. But that the way of getting good
fruits, elegant flowers, and choice vegetables is open to man-
kind, in the occasional hybridization of standard kinds,

VOL. XVI. NO. VI. 31

243 Production of Hybrids.

admits of no doubt, and it is a pity that the fact does not
receive more general attention.

Now it is well known that all seeds, however carefully
secured from admixture with others, if they have any " kind"
of their own, do not, when planted, "yield fruit" according
to it : or rather, it would be more proper to say, that they
do thus '' yield fruit ;" but that the " kind" defies all human
calculation. The accidental and unavoidable impregnation
of the favorite squash, or melon, or cucumber of this man's
garden, by his neighbor's inferior kinds, is sufficiently annoy-
ing, to say the least. It comes closely up to the mark of
vexation, as most cultivators have proved, to have an excel-
lent sowing of sweet corn exhibiting at the harvest some two
or three quite undesirable varieties. And yet here we have
the exhibition of the very means by which all improvements
have been introduced.

Sometimes an accidental mixture atones for much previous
annoyance, when a choice hybrid, which has distinctive
characteristics of its own, is the consequence. Some of the
freaks of nature, not to speak of fruits only, have brought
us the brilliant displays of tulips which are now ornament-
ing our gardens, of verbenas, camellias, azaleas, (fcc, a list
which is continually enriched by new treasures, even as we
have just now by our side, lately introduced, the heliotrope
Souvenir de Leige, which promises a fragrant yellow bloom.
It is to be observed, however, that every chance variation
from the original, a monstrosity in culture, does not consti-
tute a hybrid, for it may have been produced by accidental
conditions which cannot be renewed, and from the eff'ects of
which it may, in a single generation, return to its allegiance
to primordial peculiarities.

Besides inferring, that not "a little is yet to be hoped for"
from this capacity of improvement, we urge another reason
for not allowing this thought a place : it is probably true in
nature as it is in man's own experience, that there is no such
thing as a stand still : there must be culture and care, in-
ducing progress and improvement ; or general neglect in-
ducing deterioration. We presume it is an admitted fact,

Production of Hybrids. 243

also, that hybrids have a tendency to partake, m successive
generations, more or less of the distinct qualities derived from
either parentage. Thus, undoubtedly, kinds of fruits are
changed in time ; they fall back from the agreeable mingling
of different elements more nearly to the primal condition of
one of them. Every amateur knows the difficulty of retain-
ing tulips which will continue to " break," as they did when
newly received ; and the dahlia. Striata, in its proneness to
bloom a self-color, is a striking illustration of what we have
suggested. And hence, we say, doubting the permanency of
varieties in succeeding years, that we must look to new
hybrids to retain the present character of earth's products.

But the intrinsic importance of this subject suggests at
once, that, so far from trusting to the occasional recurrence
of favorable modifications, their production should be reduced
as much as possible to the accuracy of a system. The cul-
tivator may do wisely to avail himself of the accidents when-
ever they occur. And with this view we would encourage
the successive sowing of seeds of all kinds of fruits, vegeta-
bles, and flowers, with the subsequent care of the young
plants, until it shall be ascertained that they are valueless ; or
of value unequal to the originals. It is certainly to be hoped,
that the generous premiums offered by the Massachusetts
Horticultural Society may induce some friends of good fruits
to dispense with the practice of raising all their currant and.
gooseberry bushes from cuttings, when, in so short a time,
the seedings may be fairly tested ; and such seedings, jjrob-
ably, would scarcely ever fall behind the parent stock. In
Europe, a vast deal is done in this way, and hence, the
success there, in producing new kinds. But surely it is high
time not to depend upon the other side of the Atlantic for
fruits which may be rivalled by native, and therefore better,
kinds for our culture.

It seems to have been the purpose of Providence, who has
hid in merest germs such capacities yet to be worked, and
capable in successive generations of an indefinite develop-
ment for human advantage and convenience, that man,
adding science to the ordinary accidents of culture, and pa-

244 Production of Hybrids.

tience and toil to the means of improvement, should bring,
more than now, the products of the earth within his control.
The divine appointment which gave to him the " dominion"
over the earth, with its other inhabitants and products, seems
to be answered in this progress. The changes in the habits,
powers, and properties of animals are living testimonies to
human ability in this respect ; and these changes have been
the results, in most instances, of a combination of care, toil,
and knowledge. The command to " subdue the earth" yet
remains to be answered.

Let us have then the best of to-day superseded by others
of nature's productions, which shall add to the virtues of
their ancestors something answering the improvements in
the other appliances of civilized life: a Sovereign People.
for our patriotism's sake, rivalling the Prince Albert pea :
somebody's President, instead of May's Victoria currant.
And not to enumerate the directions in which culture and
care may be displayed, let us say at once, that a productive
earth beneath us, a clear sky over us, and " the early and the
latter rain" in their season, seem to open the whole range to
any who will devote the needful attention — of agriculture,
not the least deserving, the most requisite for human life —
of horticulture, the most tempting and gratifying of pursuits —
and of floriculture, so pleasing to the eye of taste and to the
love of the beautiful and the sweet.

In another paper we may at some future time offer some
suggestions in the further consideration, practically, of this
theme.

Somerville, April, 1850.

The above excellent communication on the important
subject of hybridization has been on hand some time, and
would have appeared in our last number, but for want of
space. The practice of hybridization has as yet received but
little notice in this country ; but the results which are to
flow from its general application may be anticipated from
what has been already achieved by the few cultivators who
have devoted their attention to it.

The simple fact alluded to by our correspondent, viz., the

Polmaise Method of Heating Greenhouses, ($*c. 245

great admixture in most kinds of garden seeds, shows how
prone all kinds of plants are to variation, even from acci-
dental hybridization ; and it may be at once inferred, that
hybridization, effected with a view to the improvement of
the progeny, by a selection of suitable parents, must produce
good results. We would therefore invite particular attention
to the above article, and advise all who are interested in the
production of superior flowers, fruits, and vegetables, to com-
mence at once the process of hybridization. — Ed.

Art. II. Polmaise Method of Heating Greenhouses and
Hothouses. By R. B. Leuchars, Gardener to J. Hopkins,
Esq., Clifton Park, Baltimore.

Since the publication of my last article, (p. 145,) upon
this subject, I have had a communication from a friend who
says, " that for pits and small plant-houses Polmaise is supe-
rior to any other method of heating," and to demonstrate the
fact, he describes an apparatus he has erected, and which he
designates Polmaise ; which is nothing more than a common
flue, with a hot-air chamber over the furnace, and is partly
carrying out my suggestion, at page 150, of the April Maga-
zine, viz., to economize all the caloric, generated by com-
bustion, to the atmosphere of the house. If we take the
trouble to examine erections for heating hothouses, we will
find them so constructed that, of every 100° of heat gen-
erated by the fire, 35° are carried off by radiation from the
materials of which the furnace is constructed ; and I can at
this moment point out an illustration of this fact, where the
waste is as much as fifty per cent. Scarcely half the heat
generated goes to raise the temperature of the house. When
the furnace is situated inside the house, and the heat not
absorbed by materials under ground, this waste heat is in
some measure economized ; but who would have such a
bungling arrangement who could have it otherwise ? The

246 Polmaise Method of Heating

amount of caloric lost by abstraction from the building is
seldom calculated to its fullest extent, and, were this point
alone duly considered, it is not too much to say, that one-
third of fuel would be saved.

From the vexatious dissappointments which constantly
occur in the construction and heating of hothouses, it is not
uncommon for people to be driven from one expedient to
another, and to endeavor to improve the efficiency of a sys-
tem, by adding to the cost, without gaining an equivalent
advantage. Any attempt to improve a system is commend-
able, whatever may be the results ; and those who, in their
alterations and expedients, make no advances towards supe-
riority, may, at least, stand as beacons against the commis-
sion of similar faults. But to warm a house by flues, pipes,
hot-air chambers, &,c., and call it Polmaise, is not less absurd
than building a four-horse wagon, and insist on calling it a
wheelbarrow. To argue that Polmaise is cheaper in the be-
ginning, is a position which I believe incapable of demon-
stration, and though an attempt has been made to establish
this position, practical experience has proved the reverse ;
therefore we are justified in being dubious until the fact be
more clearly demonstrated, the impossibility of which is
evident, from the simple fact, that the materials which would
make hot and cold-air drains would make smoke-flues, and
the materials that would be required for a Polmaise furnace,
would nearly make two common ones. These facts alone
are sufficient to show the absurdity of the assertions made
regarding its original cost. The improved method of Mr.
Meek, which is described in the Gardener^s Chronicle as
absolute perfection in a heating apparatus, has neither the
recommendation of economy nor simplicity, nor does its im-
prover claim these in favor of it. In fact, it is as complex as
the wheels of a watch, and so fickle and precarious in its
working that it cannot be trusted for six hours consecutively,
except in a house where the plants may be equally valuable,
dead or alive. Notwithstanding all that can or has been said
in favor of Meek's improvement, it is difficult to discover
wherein it is superior to the old smoke flue, and I am quite

Greoihouses and Hothouses. 247

unable to find out what else it has than novelty to recom-
mend it.

To talk of economy in combustion is not less absurd than
economy of cost, since the loss of heat amounts to more
than one-fourth of its whole heating power. In several in-
stances I have lighted a piece of paper at the top of a chim-
ney of an apparatus similar to Meek's, and in others I have
measured the amount of heat proceeding from the chimney,
and found it as much as 180°. Here is a waste of heat which
cannot be justified by any contingent advantages, while, in
reality, no advantages are gained to justify the loss. Meek's
apparatus may answer the purpose of heating a house, and
may do it as efficiently as a common smoke-flue, but then
where is the economy ?

I might here ask the question, — a question which appears
to have escaped the inquiry of Polmaisers on this side of the
Atlantic — If Polmaise be what its advocates call it, and pos-
sess all the merits its admirers claim for it, why has it not
stood the test of experience ? Why so many alterations and
improvements upon the original simplicity of Mr. Murray's
system? At first we were gulled into the belief, that "a
hole in the wall, a wet blanket, and a small furnace" were
all that were necessary to warm a hothouse of any dimen-
sions : this plan was tried and proved to be a total failure.
Then we have a host of improvements little better than
itself; and, lastly, we have the somewhat scientific system of
Mr. Meek, approaching still nearer in its properties to its
formidable rival, the old smoke-flue ; but still as much in-
ferior to it as crabs are to pippins.

Another question of considerable importance is suggested
by the statement of my correspondent, and requires a little
more consideration and inquiry to enable us to come at the
truth. If Polmaise be unsuitable for large houses, why is it
the best system for small ones ? and vice versa. I think if
any one will attentively study the effects of a heating appa-
ratus, in its application to the atmosphere of a hothouse, he
cannot fail to be struck with the strange obliquity of some
people's observations upon this subject. In fact, this acknowl-

248 Polmaise Method of Heating

edgment is itself an evidence that the system is fast sinking
in spite of its supporters ; and, indeed, this appears to be the
only vestige of merit that remains to reprieve it from oblivion,
to which it otherwise had long since been consigned. To
admit that it is useless for any other than pits, &c., is a tacit
admission that it is wrong in principle, for, if the principle
upon which an apparatus works be good, it will answer
equally well in houses of all sizes. Hot water pipes, for in-
stance, heat large houses as effectually and satisfactorily as
they do pits, because the principle is good, viz., rapid con-
duction and extensive radiation, in both of which Polmaise
is deficient. It is commonly the fate of erroneous positions,
that they are weakened by defence and obscured by explana-
tion, especially as in the present case, when its defenders
deviate from demonstrable evidence, and raise a mist where
there should be perspicuity. In the Gardener''s Chronicle,
Polmaise has repeatedly been extolled as the best of all
methods for heating hothouses, and, from the tone of its
editor and others, one would suppose that smoke-flues, hot
water pipes, and all other systems were soon to be numbered
among the things that were. Yet we find hothouses fitted
up with hot-water pipes almost under his immediate control,
showing at once an inconsistency and confutation of Polmaise
by its greatest advocate.

I have said that Polmaise, or heating by hot air in any
form, cannot be proved, by demonstrable evidence, to be su-
perior to hot water, or even the common flue, for warming
small houses, and I am anxious to learn the various items of
its adaptability. We all know very well that small houses
are more easily heated than large ones, for the simple reason,
that the volume of air to be raised to a given temperature is
smaller, and the external surface of radiation less. The in-
ternal surfaces of radiation in small houses are generally
much larger, in proportion to the volume of air and external
surface, than in large houses. The radiating surface in small
houses is generally more than what is required, while the
radiating surface in a large house is, on many occasions, not
half sufficient for the work it has to perform. The power

Greenhouses and Hothouses. 249

of a heating apparatus should not only increase in proportion
to the increased size of the house, but for every increase in
the area of ihe house, the proportion of the area of radiation
should be doubled. In general, this rule is exactly reversed,
— the power decreasing as the house is enlarged! What
proof can be afforded of the adaptability of an apparatus by
warming a pit that might be as efficiently warmed by a com-
mon tea-kettle, or what satisfactory evidence can such facts
afford of the superior adaptability of Polmaise for these pur-
poses !

Those who are thoroughly acquainted with the principles
upon which hothouses ought to be heated do not appear to
be very numerous, if we are to judge from the specimens
that are commonly erected ; and there are fewer still who
appear willing to undertake laborious and patient experiments,
which are necessary to bring more practical facts to light on
this subject. In fact, this subject, important though it be,
seems fairly bound up by absolute indifference. Nobody ap-
pears willing to harrass themselves by so unaccustomed
investigations. People are willing to take any one's advice
rather than trouble themselves much about inquiries, and,
therefore, in attempting to show the inferiority of Polmaise,
as a system of heating, it is necessary to resort to arguments
which appeal not only to practical demonstration, but will
also stand the test of scientific examination. If half were
true that has been published in favor of Polmaise, it would
long ere now have been firmly established upon the basis of
its own merits, and instead of struggling for existence as a
theoretical novelty, it would have quickly silenced all oppo-
sition by its consummate excellence.

The first care of the builders of a new system is to de-
molish the fabrics that are standing ; and the chief aim of
the advocate of a new method is to decry the other methods
that have been in use before it. Thus, we have a number
of heating systems that are praised by some and condemned
by others, without having any very definite testimony of
the merits of either. The opinions of one person are con-
demned by another, and thus we find truth, sophistry, and

VOL. XVI. NO. VI. 32

250 Polmaise Method of Heating

error taking each other's places by a sort of reciprocal inva-
sion. But let us come at once to our purpose, and consider
what are the first essentials of a heating apparatus, and see
whether or not Polmaise possesses them.

The first excellence of a heating apparatus is, without
doubt, adaptability ; the second, is economy. By some, how-
ever, these positions may be reversed, and mere cheapness
made the first consideration. But unless an apparatus answer
in every respect the purposes for which it is intended, it can-
not be called cheap, however little it may cost. It has been
frequently observed in regard to Polmaise, that its chief re-
commendation consisted in its cheapness, and were this
practically true, it might have some claims to our notice
even though it wanted convincing arguments to prove its
adaptability. The fallacy of this statement, however, re-
quires no arithmetical calculation to prove it, since any per-
son can prove the fact by a tradesman's estimate before he
commences the work, and which I have proved repeatedly in
a practical form within the last three months. To erect
Meek's apparatus requires within a trifle of tivice the expense
of a common flue, and so convinced am I of the superiority of
the latter, that in a forcing pit, eighty feet long, just erected
here, I have heated it with the old-fashioned method, although
the liberality of my employer placed all considerations of econ-
omy out of the question. But to give Polmaise of any kind
credit for cheapness, appears to be the most absurd argument
of its advocates ; and, if our judgment is to be governed by
reason and the evidence that is brought before it, we cannot
do otherwise than pronounce this system of heating to be at
perfect variance with all principles of economy in its con-
struction ; and this fact is fully confirmed by the development
which has recently taken place in the system, and in the ad-
dition of common flues which are now generally recom-
mended by its advocates, and, as a general rule, experience
goes to prove, that in ninety-nine cases out of a hundred,
cheapness in the beginning turns out to be dearness in the
end.

In considering the adaptability of a heating apparatus, we

Greenhouses and Hothouses. 251

embrace the quantity and the quality of the heat generated.
It has been ascertained by calculation, that the atmosphere of
a hothouse receives three times as much heat from a certain
quantity of fuel, through the medium of hot-water pipes,
than from a Polmaise stove, and nearly twice as much as
from a common flue, or, in other words, the atmosphere of
the hothouse will receive as much caloric from one bushel of
coal, by a hot-water apparatus, as it would from three bush-
els, by a Polmaise stove, or two bushels, by a common flue.
These calculations may not be found to hold good in every
series of similar experiments, owing to the difference of cir-
cumstances of the constructing and working of the various
apparatus, which, by the mere plan of their erection, as well
as by the extent of surfaces of radiation, may considerably
affect the results ; but, under general conditions, these calcu-
lations will come pretty near the truth, and, in some in-
stances, the difference of consumption is much greater in
favor of hot water. I have seen seven houses heated effectu-
ally by one fire and boiler, and consuming no more fuel than
one single house heated by Polmaise. At one time, I man-
aged four houses heated by one fire and boiler, and requiring
less fuel than a common furnace in an adjoining vinery,
heated by a brick flue. There can be no doubt, that for
economy of fuel, a well-constructed hot-water apparatus
stands first ; next, a common smoke-flue ; and lastly, Pol-
maise, or, properly, hot-air heating.

The quality of the heat generated may be said to be alike
in all cases, although the temperature at which the heated
air is radiated from its source has a considerable influence on
the atmosphere of the house, and hence, when we speak of
the quality of heat, we mean, that in some cases, as in old
flues and in Polmaise stoves, other gases than those which
compose pure atmospheric air enter the house from tlie fire ;
close, well-built flues, however, generate heat as pure in its
properties as hot-water pipes, and the warmth of the one is
not more arid than the other, although the contrary is sup-
posed by many to be the case.

When we raise the atmosphere of our hothouse above the

252 Pobnaise Method of Heating

temperature of the external atmosphere, we do so at the ex-
pense of the oxygen and aqueous vapor the internal volume
may contain ; or rather, the bodies within the house capable
of giving off moisture, which is extracted from them by the
increased capacity of the air for moisture, is carried upwards
by the rarefied air, and escapes into the atmosphere through
the fissures of the structure, or is deposited on the glass by
condensation. In badly-glazed houses the heat thus lost
amounts to nearly one-fifth of the heat artificially diff'used ;
one-fifth more is lost by direct radiation from all parts of
the structure, and the remaining three-fifths constitute the
amount which supports the difference between the external
and internal atmospheres. This is one of the chief causes
why the atmospheres of hothouses are unnaturally arid. The
abstraction and loss of moisture by these means is far more
than would be supposed by those who have not calculated
the amount. This abstraction is more by Polmaise than by
any other system of heating. As the heat enters the house at
a high temperature, it makes an immediate demand upon
that portion of the house nearest to the current of ingress,
and as the plants and the soil around them are the only
bodies capable of giving off moisture, it is greedily abstracted
from them by the warm air, until their vital fluids are ex-
pended to furnish the supply. The plants become dried up
by a continuance of such treatment, the sap vessels are con-
tracted and hardened, and death is the consequence.

The quantity of moisture a cubic foot of air will hold in
invisible suspension depends upon its temperature, and as its
temperature is increased, so is its capacity for moisture. Sup-
pose then that this capacity is doubled, between the temper-
atures of 40° and 60°, then it follows that the heated air and
the moisture it contained, thus escaping through the fissures
of the glass or condensed upon its surface, deprives the house,
and of course the plants within it, of double the quantity of
moisture the same equivalent of air contained previous to
its increase of temperature. Now, when a current of highly
rarefied air is introduced into a house, through an aperture in
any part of it, the air thus introduced will not diffuse itself

Greenhouses and Hothouses. 253

over the lower stratum, and thus ascend regularly from the
surface to the roof, and here, the effects of the law which
tends to bring all bodies to an equality of temperature prac-
tically fails in forcing-houses. Air, in itself, possesses com-
paratively little capacity of conducting its contained heat,
and hence the great practical disadvantages of Polmaise.
If air possessed the same power of conduction as water,
then hot air would be superior to hot water in every respect,
because the atmosphere of a house could be equally heated
throughout by direct communication with the source of heat,
without the intervention of water ; this latter element serving
only as a conductor, imparting its latent heat to other bodies
from which it is radiated more equally over the lower surface.
Upon what foundation the advocates of hot air assert, that it
is the most natural method of warming hothouses, I am
unable to discover, and would be glad to learn. Perhaps I
may be answered : We conduct the hot air into the house by
channels or drains under ground? Very good, but then Pol-
maise has no conductors, it denies the use of them, and this
is exactly how it obtained its name and notoriety, and
wherein it is different from others. Suppose, however, you
keep the drain system without the name, (this is Meek's
improvement,) I would like to know, first : where is the
advantage of having under-ground drains? and secondly:
where is the original econony? These, Mr. Editor, are
practical questions ; let them not therefore be obscured by
sophistry, or shuffled over by equivocation, for upon them is
built the whole fabric of hot-air controversy.

Let us consider briefly the utility of under-ground drains
or flues. The?e, we are now told by the advocates of hot
air, are absolutely necessary for an equal distribution of
heat over the house. The air is thus impelled by its in-
creased rarity through these subterraneous caverns, until it
finds an exit at their extremity, which communicates with
the house. These are nothing more nor less than buried
flues, — flues sunk in the ground, after the fashion, (now
almost obsolete,) that some very old houses are heated upon ;
and every gardener knows full well the difficulty of heating

254 Polmaise Method of Heating

houses VA^here such flues exist. The waste of heat by un-
der-ground channels of conduction is immense, whether
these channels be hot-air drains, smoke-flues, or cast iron
pipes, in consequence of the great absorption of heat by
the cold mass of materials around them ; and if hot air be
conducted through channels beneath the floor, and com-
municating with the atmosphere at a considerable distance
from the fire, a very small portion of the heat generated
will enter the atmosphere by the aperture of ingress. This
fact may be easily demonstrated by experiment. For ex-
ample, let a stream of air, heated to 150°, be forced by its
own specific gravity through a tube 100 feet in length ; by the
time it has travelled to the end of the tube it will be reduced
nearly to the temperature of the external atmosphere. In an
under-ground drain the reduction of temperature must be
much greater, as the solid materials of which the latter is
composed, will abstract the heat more rapidly than the atmos-
phere. It is impossible to calculate the amount of heat
absorbed by an under-ground channel of conduction, but it
must be very great. This advantage is gained by the common
flue, which not only conducts the heat, but radiates it along
its course, and the more a flue is exposed on all sides to the
atmosphere, the more heat is radiated from its surface. Al-
though the formation and materials of Polmaise drains and
smoke are the same, their characters are clearly different.
A smoke-flue is a medium both of conduction and radiation,
— a hot-air drain a medium of conduction only.

From what has been said, I think it will require no great
depth of penetration to perceive the superiority of common
flues over Polmaise or hot-air drains, apart from the consider-
ation of the heat lost by escaping with the smoke, a circum-
stance which is inevitable in a Polmaise stove, as smoke will
not ascend from a hot-air furnace without carrying along
with it a large amount of caloric, and this caloric cannot be
economized without conducting the smoke through the house,
and carrying off the caloric by radiation into the atmosphere.
I have here taken a practical view of hot-air drains, and if
any advantage arise from their use in the experience of

Greenhouses and Hothouses. 255

others, I shall be glad to be informed of it. My own ex-
perience has convinced me, that you can obtain little more
than half the calorific influence of the fire, and that half at
a temperature and in a condition which ought never to be
admitted into a hothouse.

Notwithstanding the overwhelming amount of evidence
which has been adduced against hot air for heating hot-
houses, there are many who do not hesitate to recommend it.
But we hope the day of dictatorial and vituperative contro-
versy on disputable subjects is gone past. We are not to
risk our reputation, or be misled by the vague assertions
of theoretical enthusiasts, who seem to be insensible of their
liability to err, and establish their notions of right and
wrong upon the assumptions of their own infallibility. The
learned editor of the Gardenei'^ s Chrotiicle, who is the chief
horticultural theorist of England, and who is only groping
in the dawn of a profession of which he wishes to be con-
sidered as a master and practical teacher, has been the strong-
est advocate of this system of heating, showing, in a most
striking manner, how comparatively little the greatest ca-
pacities can perform beyond the limits of their own province.

Clifton Park, Baltimore^ April, 1850.

We commend the above paper to the careful perusal of
all who are about erecting greenhouses, hothouses, or vineries.
Mr. Leuchars has shown, that he fully understands the sub-
ject he has taken hold of, — a subject, we do not hesitate to
say, that receives but little reflection, and is but little under-
stood. All advocates of Polmaise should especially note his
views on the principles of heating. Mr. Leuchars has done
a good service in exposing so fully the absurdities of the
Polmaise system of heating", — a system which we believe
can never be adopted in this country, only at the sacrifice of
great labor and expense. We have read all that its greatest
advocates have advanced in its favor, and once attempted to
warm a small house in this manner : and though we were
enabled to keep out the frost, it was only at a waste of fuel
and labor. — Ed.

256 The Curculio and Codling Moth.

Art. III. The Curculio and Codling Moth ; their hab-
its, and the best means of preventing their ravages upon
fruits. By M. H. Simpson, Esq., Saxonville, Mass.

Dear Sir, — My attention has been called to examine the
insects which are destructive to fruits, and to ascertain their
habits, in consequence of being a sufferer for a number of
years. As the information may be of use, I herewith submit
the result of my experiments and observations. There are
only two insects which have caused me any trouble ; the
others are all easily destroyed, viz. : the Curculio and Cod-
ling moth. These two have destroyed the past year seven-
eighths of my apples, cherries, plums, and peaches, and have
disfigured the pears by their punctures.

THE CURCULIO.

The curculios commenced puncturing the fruit about
the sixth of June, and deposited their eggs in full three-
fourths of the apples, causing them to drop when very
small, and to an equal extent the cherry and peach. The
plums would have been all destroyed but for the means
adopted in saving them : this was by shaking the trees, the
insect falling upon cotton cloth, extended over a frame,
which I placed under the tree, and also by placing a frame
over the tree, and extending worsted netting over it, which
was sufficiently open to admit air and light. The labor and
expense of these methods are considerable, and I hope better
plans may be found, one of which I am now experimenting
upon with some prospect of success.

I showered the trees, before the buds broke, with white
wash, with a hand engine, covering the branches entirely ;
the time required for a moderate sized tree was only five
minutes, and the expense of lime hardly worth estimating.
If this does not answer the purpose, I shall syringe the fruit
when but little larger than a common white bean ; my ex-
periments have convinced me that this latter method is a sure
preventive. I found four of the larvae in one apple nearly
ready to go into the ground, where they go through their

The CurcuUo and Codlinsc Moth. 257

't)

chrysalis state and remain until the following season in a
torpid condition. I have produced the perfect insect from
the larva) which were found in the apple, peach, and cherry.
In about four weeks the larvae attain their full size, and are
then known as the cherry and peach worm, generally so
called, and also the small apple worm ; and they are the cause
of the cherry and peach rot by their late punctures. Res-
pecting the habits of this insect, I have noticed that they
commence their attacks on the fruit from the Ji?'st to the
tenth of June. I have seen them as late as the 1st Septem-
ber, but have not discovered fresh punctures later than the
20th July ; and I am inclined to believe, that those which
are seen later are of the new crop, which have been disturbed
accidentally in the earth.

I ascertained the increase of the curculio by placing a male
and female under a glass vessel, and giving them one plum a
day for thirty-six days. They deposited, upon an average,
about eight eggs per day, and they ceased depositing them
about the same time that the punctures ceased upon tlie fruit
on the trees. They go through their chrysalis state in three
weeks after going into the ground, and remain in a torpid
state through the season unless the earth is disturbed. I pro-
duced ten of the perfect insects, which are little black beetles,
from the larvas, and fed them until the 1st of January with
apple. The larvae which were in the fruit were placed upon
a surface of earth in a glass vessel, and after eating three
weeks, they left the apple and bored their way into the earth
to the depth of three or four inches, and there formed a
little home where they cast their skin, and in about three
weeks the perfect beetle was formed ; they lay dormant in
this state until I disturbed them ; some I took from the earth
the 1st of August and others on the 1st of October.

The mechanical performance of this little beetle should
not pass without notice. In making her nest and laying her
eggs in the fruit, she exhibits an instinct that is truly wonder-
ful : with her snout or proboscis she punctures the fruit in
the shape of a semi-circle, to the depth of one-tenth of an
inch, upon an angle of about forty-five degrees ; and then

VOL. XVI. NO. VI. 33

258 The Curculio and Codling Moth.

makes a horizontal puncture, directly under the skin, to the
extent of one-tenth of an inch ; she then turns round and
deposits her eggs, at the entrance of the horizontal puncture ;
after which she again turns round, and, with her proboscis,
pushes home the egg to the bottom of the last puncture, and
presses the flesh of the plum against the skin, and holds it in
this position about ten minutes, imtil the flesh and skin are
knit together, for the purpose, as I suppose, of preventing the
egg from rolling out, and also to protect it from a minute
spider. The semi-circular cut is made to provide for con-
traction, as, if made straight, the skin would split and the
egg roll out.

The curculio flies a great distance, and their numbers are
immense where there are plenty of fruit trees. It is evident,
unless some means are taken to diminish them, that they
will eventually take all the fruit. I know of no article that
will scent them ofl". I placed a bottle of spirits of tar directly
under three plums, and in a few days found the fatal punc-
ture upon them. The egg hatches in from five to ten days,
and the fruit may be saved by taking out the egg, but the
application of white wash, by syringing the fruit, I consider
the most practicable, unless the experiment which I am now
trying answers the purpose — of syringing the limbs before
the buds break. To make the wash stick to the fruit or tree
I put in a little glue.

THE CODLING MOTH.

The other insect to which I alluded is the codling moth :
this little moth deposits her egg in the eye of the apple ; they
commenced last year about the 15th of June, and were so des-
tructive on my trees as to take about all the curculio spared,
and many of the Bartlett and Passe Colmar pears. They are
about all the season, or until the middle of September. There
are two or three crops of them : I produced them from the
egg in about five weeks ; they were two weeks eating before
they were ready to go into the chrysalis state, and three
weeks before the perfect moth appeared. They are a small
grey moth, with a distinct mark upon the hind part of the

The Curculio and Codling Bloth. 259

wings, of a brown color, edged with copper ; they do not
extend their wings more than seven-eighths of an inch ; they
are very lively at night, and entirely at rest in the day time,
from which I infer that they fly only at night. I have never
been able to find one upon the trees. After the egg is
hatched, the worm eats to the centre of the apple, and then
out at the side, and are the cause of the wind-falls, or moth-
falls. I saved a number of apples by placing a piece of bees-
wax over the eye ; but the plan, for practical purposes, is to
syringe the fruit with whitewash ; this will fill the eye, and
thus prevent the moth from laying her egg. I am happy to
state, that I discovered a trap for the larvas of this insect, by
which an orchard can be cleared of them with little labor.
Noticing two or three of the larvae creeping upon a piece of
cotton cloth which was thrown accidentally into the crotch of
an apple tree, my curiosity led to further examination, and to
my surprise and pleasure, I found thirty of the larva3 in their
silken homes, going through their chrysalis state. They
knit the folds of cloth together with silken ties, and there
quietly change from the loathed worm to the perfect insect,
which is perhaps as beautiful, under a microscope, as any
production of the insect tribe. I again placed the cotton cloth
in the crotch of the tree, and examined it in three Aveeks, and
found another encampment of them in the same state, and
hence concluded they were quite in my power with very
little labor. The cloth should be placed in the tree about
the 25th of June, and should be examined every three
weeks, as it requires about this time to go through the
chrysalis state ; in one or two seasons they must be des-
troyed if this operation should be followed up. They find
their silken web very readily attach to the little fibres of
cotton, and by tying the cotton cloth to the tree the wind
will not disturb them.

There is still another insect which does some damage to
the foliage and fruit of trees. The perfect insect is a long,
dark, slender fly, with long feelers and two stearers behind ;
they were found on the trees as early as the 15th of March,
mating ; they lay their eggs in the young bud ; as soon as it

260 The Curculio and Codling Moth.

opens, the egg hatches, and the young larva commences
eating the young leaves, and curling them up, in which he
makes his home. They are destroyed by applying the white-
wash to the limbs of the tree. The whitewash also kills a
very destructive little insect, the eggs of which are contained
in little mussel shells, on the bark of the apple and pear trees ;
[a species of coccus. — Ed.^ I will communicate the effect
of syringing the trees with the wash before the buds break,
in July, when the whole effect of the experiment will be
known.

Saxonville, April 22, 1S50.

Notwithstanding much has been written upon the habits
of these two destructive insects, (the curculio and codling
moth,) Mr. Simpson's article will be found extremely valuable.
His observations have been made with great care, and his
experiments, in order to ascertain their various changes, have
been conducted with great labor, and perhaps with greater
attention than has been bestowed upon them by any previous
writer. He has ascertained precisely the time when the cur-
culio commences his operations, and the period they continue
to destroy the fruit, thus placing it within the means of all to
save their entire crop, by attending to the shaking of the trees,
the only mode in which we think they can be successfully
attacked. Mr. Simpson's experiment of syringing the trees
and fruit is well worth trying, and we shall be gratified to
lay before our readers the results of this plan after the season
is over.

The codling moth is nearly as destructive to the apple as
the curculio to the plum. Any information in regard to the
best means of preventing their ravages will be hailed with
pleasure by all orchardists. Mr. Simpson's mode is similar to
that first described, we believe, by Mr. Joseph Burrelle, of
Q,uincy, and published in the New Engla?id Farmer, (Vol.
XVHI, p. 398.)

If such a plan is considered too expensive, or too much
trouble to be put into practice in extensive orchards, it cer-
tainly is not in small gardens where there are but few trees.

High-hush Blackberry. 261

and these choice kinds. The vahie of perfect fruits, compared
with wormy ones, is too great to allow any means to be neg-
lected which will secure the former. Suppose a garden to
contain half a dozen trees of the Red Astrachan, Early Har-
vest, Bough, Williams, Benoni, and Porter apples, how slight
would be the expense in the saving of a whole crop.

But we need not comment further upon Mr. Simpson's
article ; its value will be appreciated by all cultivators.

We only regret, that the communication did not come to
hand in season to find a place in our last number. We trust,
however, that it will yet be in time to enable those who fol-
low its good advice to save the greater part of their crop of
plums. — Ed.

Art. IV. On the Cultivation of the High-bush Black-
berry ; ivith a Notice of the best Wash for Fruit Trees.
By Capt. Josiah Lovett, Beverly, Mass.

Dear Sir, — Always having been particularly fond of the
smaller fruits, after preparing my grounds, and setting out a
variety of strawberries and raspberries, about the year 1835,
I turned my attention to the cultivation of the high-bush
blackberry of our woods. At the season of ripening, I, for
several years in succession, travelled through the woods of
Beverly, Wenham, and Manchester, in the county of Essex,
in search of such bushes as bore the largest and best berries ;
having noticed the most conspicuous in passing, I placed a
stake by, or tied a string upon, each of them, and, returning
early in the autumn, or on the following spring, I took up
all the marked bushes and removed them to my own garden,
or cultivated grounds ; this experiment I followed for several
years in succession, but in all cases made a very signal
failure in the production of any fruit worthy of garden cul-
ture, and, I think, in 1840, gave up all hope of ever being
able to grow this berry successfully. Several of my friends
were no more fortunate in attempting to raise good fruit from

263 Wash for Fruit Trees.

canes procured from the woods of New Hampshire, and the
trial was, for the time being, abandoned altogether. A year
or two later, a cultivator from Dorchester exhibited some
very fine fruit of the blackberry, at the rooms of the Massa-
chusetts Horticultural Society, in Boston, and I immediately
procured from him a few bushes, and, from that time to the
present, I have succeeded in producing good fruit from this
stock. I have now in cultivation several seedlings raised
from this Dorchester stock that have produced fine fruit, but
as yet, none better than the original, and the latter are no
larger or finer than I have gathered, with my own hands, from
the wild bushes in the woods in New Hampshire, or this
vicinity. The variety I now raise is the one I originally
received from Dorchester, and this is the only one I have
seen cultivated successfully.

I have planted the bushes in various positions on my
grounds, and they have uniformly done well ; but I think
the largest berries and best crops have been produced on
patches near the street, having the wash from the road
passing over them. My ground is a strong loam, inclining
to clay, over a subsoil of yellow stiff clay. I have given
them no particular care, spreading a light coat of stable or
pig-pen manure over them once a season, usually in the au-
tumn. In regard to pruning, I have sometimes cut the tops
off of the longest canes, so as to make them stand without
stakes, and occasionally have staked them up ; but I have
found those left to trail on or near the ground have done
best, and I now uniformly allow them to grow in this
manner.

Wash for Fruit Trees. — I am, at this season of the year,
frequently asked what is the best wash for fruit trees, both
trunk and limbs. The following has given me the best satis-
faction of all the various mixtures I have tried, and I have
used no other for at least twelve years : — I use a large vessel,
say a tub, made by sawing a molasses hogshead in two, at
the bung, which will hold about seventy gallons ; in this tub
I put a wheelbarrow load of yellow clay, and an equal quan-
tity of fresh cow manure, covering it with water. After

Wash for Fruit Trees. 263

soaking and mixing a day or two, I add half a bushel wood
ashes, one pound of sulphur, six or eight pounds of soft soap,
and mix well together ; then slake half a peck of lime, and
add to the above, using water sufficient to make the whole
about the consistency of thin cream, which will nearly fill
the tub ; mix well together for several days ; then, with a
common whitewash brush, (an old floor brush will answer,)
I paint the bodies of the trees, having first used a smaller
brush to paint the crotches of the limbs, and the limbs them-
selves, as far as possible. I think any gentleman trying this
wash, or paint, if you please, will find it to give him perfect
satisfaction on every kind of fruit tree in ordinary cultivation
with us.

Beverly, May 15, 1850.

It gives us great pleasure to present the above remarks, on
the culture of the blackberry, by our friend Captain Lovett,
who has been very successful in raising some of the finest
specimens we have ever seen of this delicious but neglected
fruit. It will be noticed, that there is no peculiarity of treat-
ment required in order to raise it in abundance ; the only
thing necessary is to get the right kind of plants, as it will
be seen, that, whatever may have been the cause, success
has only followed when the bushes were obtained from one
particular source. Plants from the woods, in all cases, failed.
The experience of Captain Lovett, in this respect, is highly
valuable, as it has been supposed that the wild bushes had
only to be transplanted from the pastures to the garden, and
an abundant crop of improved fruit would be the result.
Such it seems is not the fact ; Captain Lovett has produced
seedlings, but he states, that they do not surpass the original
fruit ; this, however, should only encourage amateurs to go
on raising more and more, assured that good results will
follow their labors in the end.

The wash for fruit trees, recommended by Captain Lovett,
we have no doubt will give good satisfaction, as the ingre-
dients of which it is composed are all excellent for cleansing
the bark and protecting it from insects. — Ed.

264 How to Prune the Apple.

Art. V. How to Prune the Applp. By R. Thompson, Su-
perintendent of the Orchard and Kitchen-Garden Depart-
ment of the London Horticultural Society. From the
Gardeners' Chronicle.

The art of pruning, though generally considered as of
easy attainment, is often very little understood, even by
many who profess to have made it their study ; lopping off
limbs here and there, cutting out cross-wood, and " shorten-
ing in," a phrase in every body's mouth who has any thing
to dp with trees, may be performed by the merest tyro in
gardening. These operations do not constitute the art of
pruning ; as well might the cultivator of trees be called
a pomologist. The art of pruning consists in a knowledge
of the capacities of trees for producing wood, — the relative
position which the shoots will assume when full-grown, —
their probable vigor and strength, — an appreciation of the
properties of form and proportion, — and the judgment, so to
cut each branch or spur, that every portion of the tree
shall receive a due amount of air and light, and the future
branches the inclination and form which it is desired they
should assume. To do this, in the best manner, is no easy
task, and all, who have imagined it to be so, will find, after
a little experience, that they are entirely mistaken.

After reading the several articles by Mr. Thompson, which
we have given in our previous numbers, we have no doubt
the difficulties to be overcome, in acquiring the art of prun-
ing, will be apparent to all. It is, however, impossible
to make every operation understood by reading, notwith-
standing they are so well illustrated by excellent engravings :
practice alone can make perfect ; yet the elements of the art
are plainly laid down, — and all who will read carefully and
proceed cautiously, cannot fail to accomplish good results,
and in time become experts in the art of pruning trees.

With these cursory remarks, we shall not longer detain the
reader from Mr. Thompson's advice on pruning the apple : —

Holo to Prune the Apple. 265

PRUNING. THE APPLE TREE.

The apple tree, left to its natural growth, forms generally
a low stem, branching out into a top, which ultimately be-
comes hemispherical, towards the outside of which, fruit-
spurs, leaves, and fruit, are most abundant ; to support these,
the branches interiorly may be considered as a sort of frame-
work, for they are often destitute of spurs or foliage. In
pruning and training it is necessary to bear this natural ten-
dency of growth constantly in mind ; for although that ten-
dency may be subdued or diverted to suit the purposes of
cultivation, yet it cannot be annihilated whilst the trees are
young, and as vigorous as they ought to be. A tree may be
prevented from growing up with a single stem by cutting
back ; then several shoots usually result, and these become
so many smaller stems, if not interfered with. Like the
individual stem they are not disposed to bear fruit ; their
tendency is to be merely pillars or supporters of a system of
elevated ramifications, at the extremities of which fructifica-
tion naturally takes place. Being aware of this, the opera-
tions of pruning and training, necessary to be performed when^
the tree is to be grown in any particular form dilferent from
its natural habit, will be better understood. The modes in
which the apple tree is grown are numerous. The principal
are, as standards, open dwarfs, pyramids, trained against
espaliers, and against walls.

A standard, properly managed, should have a clean, strait,
and substantial stem. By substantiality of stem is here
meant a structure capable of supporting itself without bend-
ing, and hence not requiring the aid of stakes. In general,
this property is too little thought of; or, at its expense, the
other properties are endeavored to be obtained. The follow-
ing will illustrate this. Supposing it were required to grow
an apple tree with a stem, (if such it might be called,)
fifteen feet in length, yet nowhere more than an inch in
diameter ; the way to effect this would be to train a maiden
plant to a rod, taking care to allow no side-shoots to grow,
nor any leaves, excepting a very few at top. By adopting
a similar proceeding year after year, the stem will reach the

VOL. XVI. NO. VI. 34

266 How to Prune the Apple.

height above-mentioned, and be like a slender, flexible rod,
almost of miiform thickness, which would instantly bend to
the ground on being deprived of its support. It must be
considered a work of misapplied art ; for naturally the plant
would have put forth side-shoots and leaves as it advanced ;
and these leaves would have contributed to the formation of
layers of Avood, increasing the thickness of the base ; thus
the stem would have become an elongated cone, a form
adapted for self-support.

From what has been stated it is obvious that the necessity
for stakes is owing to the improper management of the plant
whilst the stem is being reared ; and this again from the
erroneous idea that a sufficiently clean stem cannot be pro-
duced unless it be stripped of leaves, twigs, in short of every-
thing but the bark. Every leaf which appears along the
young stem should be encouraged. If any strong shoot break
out let it be checked ; but all other laterals should be allowed
to go on at least to the end of July, when they may be
stopped by pinching off their points. In the following au-
tumn cut them off closely from the lower portion of the
stem, and shorten the rest back to one eye. In the following
season these eyes will push fresh shoots ] treat them like
their predecessors in summer, and clear an additional portion
of the stem below, in autumn, by closely cutting the laterals
which may have pushed therefrom. By this mode of pro-
cedure self-supporting stems can be generally insured.

The formation of the top must now be considered. The
height of clear stem being determined, the upright leader,
exceeding that height in summer by several inches, must be
shortened back at the ensuing winter pruning, so that the
lowest of three buds immediately below the section shall
correspond with the intended height of stem. These three
buds will give rise to three shoots, which should be encour-
aged for the commencement of the branches of the tree.

Each of them, as they proceed in growth, should be made
to diverge at an angle of about 45°, or half way between the
horizontal and perpendicular directions ; and, at the same
time, the shoots should be kept equidistant from each other.

How to Prune the Apple.

267

At the winter pruning, they should be shortened to within

nine inches or a foot of
their bases, particularly-
observing to cut above
two buds pointing out-
wards in the direction
which it would be de-
sirable the shoots pro-
ceeding from them should
take. Six limbs will be
thus originated. Again
a little attention in sum-
mer will insure an equal
divergence of the shoots
from the perpendicular;
and equal distances from
each other. Meanwhile,
a gradual divestment of
the temporary shoots on
the stem is presumed
to have annually taken
place, as above recom-
mended. The scars re-
sulting from the suppres-
sion of those on the
lower part of the stem
will have nearly, or quite
healed over ; for this pro-
cess will be greatly ac-
celerated by the action
of leaves on shoots left
above. It may be observ-
ed, that after all these tem-
porary shoots are removed
from the stem, their bene-
ficial eifects continue ; for
the roots formed by their
agency still remain to
contribute to the future

Fig. 13. Jlie Apple Tree.

aaaaaa, blossom buds ; bbbbb, wood buds ;
c c, scars where fruit was attached last season.

growth of the tree.

268 How to Prune the Apple.

After the principal branches have been started, it would be
well to regulate the growth of the top for a few years longer,
by checking, about midsummer, any shoots that are over-
luxuriant, or that are taking a wrong direction. Afterwards,
little pruning will be required. The branches should be
kept thin enough to admit sufficient sun and air ; and after
bearing heavy crops, portions of the extremities should be a
little shortened.

Open dwarfs are next to be considered. Presuming a
tree, which has made its first season's growth from the graft
or bud, has been planted in autumn or early part of winter,
let it then be cut back just above that bud which is ascer-
tained to be eight inches above the surface of the ground.
But if the plant is weak, or, from circumstances absolutely
unavoidable, the planting has been delayed till spring, the
cutting back to the height above-mentioned must be deferred
till the following autumn. In both these cases, however, a
little of the top of the shoot ought to be taken off" when
planted ; and then let the plant grow as roughly as possible
throughout the season. The more shoots and leaves it makes
the better, above the height of nine inches ; immediately
below this height it would be desirable that the buds should
not break till the second season after planting, by which
time the tree will have made roots, and established itself
sufficiently to push shoots vigorous enough to form the
basis of the principal branches ; and to obtain such at proper
height is the object of cutting back the tree ; it may be re-
peated, to the bud eight inches from the ground, before
Avinter, in all cases, immediately when planted, if strong ;
but not till next autumn if the plant is weak.

Whatever shoots may be made by the plant in the first sea-
son after it has been cut down as above directed, let especial
attention be directed to the three uppermost. Keep all others
in check daring the summer, and cut them off closely in
autumn. The uppermost shoot will be eight inches from
the ground; and as an inch is about the average distance
between the buds on the shoots of the apple tree, the next
will originate at seven inches, and the lowermost of the

How to Prune the Apple. 269

three at six inches above the surface of the ground, thus
leaving six inches of clear stem. It may be here observed,
that the uppermost bud should point to the north ; for then
the next will point to the east, and the lowest to the west,
thus leaving the widest space open to the south, which is
of advantage, because the sun's rays are not obstructed ; be-
sides, the branches naturally incline to grow more towards
the south than elsewhere, all other circumstances being the
same.

The shoots, many chances to one, will not diverge in the
right direction, and, therefore, training becomes necessary.
Some prefer training the branches almost horizontally at first,
and then nearly upright. Others as nearly as possible in direct
lines at an angle of 4-5°, or half way between the perpen-
dicular and horizontal directions. It would be an easy mat-
ter to train the three first shoots strictly at the above angle
as they progressed during the summer ; but it must be
recollected that before much fruit can be expected, the tree
must have formed a considerable quantity of wood ; and one
thing is certain, that the more its natural growth is interfered
with, especially when young, the less wood it will form in a
given time. Yet these shoots, even in their early stage, must
not be left entirely wild and free ; for it usually happens,
that one of them pushes with greater vigor than the rest, and
that one should be a little checked by bending it from the
perpendicular early in the season ; and so should the next
strongest, but in a less degree, and thus the weakest left to
its freedom will have a better chance of ranking fairly with
its neighbors. When the shoots have made their principal
growth for the season, but before vegetation becomes inactive,
they should be brought into the position which they are in-
tended finally to occupy, as least as far as six inches from
their bases ; beyond this it is immaterial, for to that distance
the shoots must be cut back in autumn. A piece of matting
will be sufficient to secure them in an equidistant position
from each other laterally, leaving, however, a somewhat
wider interval on the south side.

The three primary shoots, cut back to six inches from

270 HoiD to Prune the Apple.

their bases, at the autumn or winter pruning, will generally
push at least three shoots each in the following season ; but
only two from each are necessary to be encouraged for lead-
ing branches, six of which will thus be originated, within
six inches of the stem. These leading branches, if supposed
to be extended horizontally, ought to represent the radii of a
hexagon, the distance between any two adjoining branches
being equal to their length from the centre or stem, up to
the point where the said distance from one to the other is
measured ; but when in reality they are not horizontal, but
occupy a position half way between that and perpendic-
ular, or having an inclination of 45*^, the distance of one
branch from another at, say three feet from the stem, will
only be eighteen inches ; at four feet the distance from
branch to branch will be two feet ; at five, two and a half
feet : at six, three feet ; and so on. If these relative distances
are maintained, a uniform divergence of the six principal
branches must result. When these are found to be a foot
apart, a supplementary branch on each should be encouraged
to fill up the increasing intervals. The branches may be
kept in their proper positions by means of hoops ; or rods
may be employed if hoops are considered too expensive.
Neither the hoops nor the rods will require to be strong if
timeously applied ; that is to say, whilst the shoots are not
more than one year old. And it may be observed, that if
a shoot or branch be kept in any position for only a few
weeks in the growing season, that position will afterwards
be retained, and the materials may be then employed where
elsewhere required.

Having endeavored to give a general idea of what may be
termed the frame-work of the tree, it will be necessary to
advert to the management of one of the six branches from
the time they were originated by cutting back the three
primary ones. The leading shoots will require to be short-
ened to about a foot every winter pruning, observing to cut
to a bud pointing outwards, and to the direction which the
branch should take. Generally, if the leader be cut to a bud
pointing outwards and to the left one season, it will require

Pomological Gossip. 271

to be cut to a bud pointing outwards and to the right in the
following season. By shortening the leader, abundance of
side-shoots will be produced. These should be pinched back
in the summer ; and further reduced to within two inches of
their bases at the winter pruning, and thus they will in a few
years become fruit spurs.

Art. VI. Pomological Gossip. By the Editor.

The Fruit Crop of 1850. — Never was there such a
fine promise of a rich harvest of fruit as in the present sea-
son. The peach trees are radiant with their wreaths of rosy
blossoms ; the cherries are even bending beneath the weight
of their snowy clusters of flowers ; and the pears are tufted
with a profusion of their beautiful corols, — gladdening the
heart of every lover of this choicest of fruit, in the expecta-
tion of the bounteous crop, and anticipating the welcome of
some new variety, over whose tender growth he has so
anxiously watched, patiently awaiting its mature growth and
promised harvest. A rich treat is a morning stroll at this
season, through the well-stored fruit garden of the amateur

cultivator, where

" Flowers of all hues"

bedeck the trees, and throw their perfume on the gentle gale.
A great fund of information may be garnered up at the pe-
riod of blooming. To the pomologist it is especially a season
of exciting interest ; to the amateur, one of great gratification ;
and to the nurseryman, one of deep importance. How varied
are the blossoms of every class of fruits ! Witness the pears.
How rich is the Jargonelle, with its immense clusters of very
large, beautifully cupped flowers : see that Beurre Diel, equally
showy, but yet quite different in general aspect : look again
at that Bezi Montigny, whose blossoms are but half the size
of the others : and then note the Queen of the Low Countries,
whose flowers are of the largest size, but whose petals are

272 Description of Ten Neio Verbenas.

so narrow and the flower so spreading that it may be singled
out among twenty other sorts : see the Chaumontelle, whose
buds have the rich rosy tint of the apple before they expand ;
and, as yet, more distinct than all, examine the Ferdinand
de Meester. The pomologist at this season may add to his
stock of knowledge in the distinction of varieties ; and the
nurseryman be enabled to correct errors, which, in spite of
the greatest care, will creep into the " best regulated" gar-
dens.

We have been more impressed with the importance of the
blooming season, when, pencil in hand, we have, year after
year, strayed among our trees, noting down the peculiarities
of each and every variety, often first detecting a synonyme
before the trees have borne a single fruit. Had nurserymen
examined the blossoms of their peaches every year, the no-
menclature of this delicious fruit would not have been such a
mass of confusion as now exists. We would, therefore, im-
press upon all who have any interest in trees, — aside from the
beauty which clothes them at this season, — to carefully make
themselves acquainted with the peculiarities of their blos-
soms, assured they will never regret their examination, but
rather be inclined to pursue it more eagerly on the return of
every year.

The Report of the Proceedings of the Second Con-
gress OF Fruit Growers has just appeared, making a res-
pectable pamphlet of upwards of one hundred pages. As it
came to hand too late to give a review of it in this number,
we omit it till our next, when we shall endeavor to present
a brief abstract of the Report.

The Stanwick Nectarine, of which so much has been
said in its praise, was to be sold at auction on the fifteenth of
May. The whole stock comprised twenty-four plants, all
that have yet been propagated, and no other young plants at
present exist.

'' The original nectarine tree," according to an account in
the Gardeners^ Chronicle^ " is in the possession of his grace
the Duke of Northumberland, at whose seat, at Stanwick, it
has borne fruit for several years, and from which it derives

Pomological Gossip. 273

its name. The duke received it from the late Mr. Barker,
of Suaidia, in Syria, a gentleman whose attention had long
been turned to the acquisition of the finest fruit trees of the
East, in the hope that they might be valuable in his native
country. It was his anxious desire, that such as proved to
be adapted to the climate of the United Kingdom, might be
immediately dispersed ; and the sale now announced is in
furtherance of Mr. Barker's benevolent design. In surren-
dering his property in it to the public, the Duke of Northum-
berland has resolved that the proceeds, after paying the
expenses of propagation, &c., should be transferred to a fund
in aid of the Benevolent Institution for the Relief of Infirm
Gardeners : a plan in which Mr. Barker heartily concurred,
and which we trust that the well-wishers to this excellent
charity will heartily support. The sale will take place on
the anniversary of the Institution, and the purchasers will
have the satisfaction of knowing, that in this instance they
may contribute materially to its funds, while at the same^
time they are consulting their personal interests.

In excellence, the Stanwick nectarine is as far beyond all
other nectarines as a Green Gage plum is beyond all other
plums. Beyond this, praise cannot reach. It may, neverthe-
less, be as well to repeat, on the present occasion, what we
stated some time since, when the high quality of the nectarine
first become perfectly ascertained :

' The nectarine forming the subject of this notice is about
the size of an Elruge, and like it in shape, except in being less
heart-shaped at the base. Its skin is pale, like that of the
white nectarine, where shaded, with a violet tinge next the
sun. The flesh is white, exceedingly tender, juicy, rich, and
sugary, without the slightest trace of the flavor of prussic
acid. The stone is middle-sized, ovate, with rather a promi-
nent sharp edge, very rugged, and of a chocolate color. The
kernel is sweet, like a nut, possessing none of the bitter al-
mond flavor. The fruit of the peach and nectarine, partaking
so much as it does of the quality of the bitter almond, must
have been very deleterious in its unimproved state ; but the
varieties, now generally cultivated, retain but little of the

VOL. XVI, NO. VI. 35

274 Pomological Gossip.

injurious properties ascribed to the species by ancient au-
thors ; and, when well ripened, they can be generally eaten
with impunity, notwithstanding the slight prussic acid flavor
which pervades even their luscious sugary juice ; but some
constitutions are liable to be affected by this trace. It was
indeed considered unlikely that amelioration would be car-
ried much further. For at least a century little improvement
has been effected, and in every variety the kernels have
proved intensely bitter. But at last this is overcome ; in the
specimen above described the deleterious quality, considered
inherent in the species, has disappeared ; and Mr. Barker
himself informed me, that his fruits with sweet kernels may
be eaten as a full meal, in quantities, at any time of the day,
and repeatedly, with perfect safety.'

To this we have nothing to object, except that it scarcely
gives the Stanwick nectarine so high a character as it de-
serves. In fact, at the time when the description was
written, its full value was imperfectly understood, the fruit
which reached London having been damaged in the carriage.
We have lately, however, been favored by his grace the
Duke of Northumberland with a liberal supply, which ar-
rived in the most perfect condition, and we can now appeal
to various persons near London, who had the opportunity of
tasting it, as witnesses to its unrivalled excellence. ' The
most delicious nectarine I ever ate.' ' The flavor is very
delicious, and it is altogether most exquisite ; I do not won-
der at your speaking in such high terms of it.' ' It is a superb
fruit.' 'Most delicious.' Such is the language in which
great judges of fruit, accustomed to the finest known varie-
ties, have spoken of the specimens they have received.

This evidence is conclusive as to the grand importance of
the Stanwick nectarine to our country, and we confidently
believe that the time is not distant when it will be found in
every fruit-garden of the United Kingdom."

We have only to add, that we hope this nectarine will soon
find its way into our collections of fruit.

Descriptions of Ten New Verbenas. 275

Art. VII. Descriptions of Ten New Verbenas. By the

Editor.

After the lapse of several years, since the first introduction
of the old Ferbena Tweedieana, the new seedlings have
just begun to break into very distinct and novel shades. Our
American seedlings have, hitherto, fully equalled, if not sur-
passed, any that we have received from England, and by a
careful hybridization of the plants, we have no doubt, with
a climate so admirably suited to the verbena, and to the
ripening of its seeds, we may continue to keep in advance
in the production of seedlings. But the French cultivators,
with their usual ardor, have entered the field, and have al-
ready achieved such good results, that we notice the principal
new ones of the year, advertised by English cultivators, are
seedlings of the Parisian florists ; thus taking the place of
their own. That they are thus entitled to such distinction
we can readily imagine, after noticing the flowers of three of
them, viz., St. Margaret, Reine de Jour and Iphigene, each
of which are entirely new in color and other floral proper-
ties, as will be seen by our descriptions. We notice that
some cultivators have adopted the term, '•' Fancy" varieties
to those that are edged, mottled, or shaded, a distinction
we think worthy of being generally followed.

We alluded last year, (p. 262,) to the production of striped
varieties, and we are glad to arniounce such an acquisition in
a new seedling raised by Mr. Briell, of Long Island. These
departures from the plain colors are but the commencement
of varieties, which will present a combination of tints as
fanciful as those of the carnation or the dahlia. Our advice is
to keep up the hybridization of the flowers, and the constant
sowing of seeds.

The following embrace some fine varieties of last year, —
not before described, — in addition to the new ones of this
season :

'« 1. St. Margaret. — Flowers large, deep rosy scarlet, with
a violet centre of the peculiar tint of the inner petals of Ce-

276 Descriptions of Ten New Verbenas.

reus speciosissimus ; petals large, fine form, nearly flat, and of
good substance ; umbels very large, moderately compact, and
of superior form ; habit excellent, moderately vigorous, trail-
ing, and admirably adapted for bedding out ; foliage good ;
a most superb and rich variety.

2. Reine de Jour. — Flowers very large, fine blush, with a
deep rosy crimson centre, slightly veined and shaded at the
edges ; petals superior form, flat, and of excellent substance ;
umbels very large, rather loose, well formed ; habit vigorous,
without being too gross ; foliage handsome, thick, slightly
pubescent. One of the most remarkable varieties yet pro-
duced ; the individual flowers nearly cover a twenty-five
cent piece, and the trusses are fully three inches in diameter.

3. Iphigene. (Dnfoy^s.) — Flowers large, lilac, with rosy
carmine centre ; petals large, of good substance and form ;
umbels large and well-shaped ; habit vigorous ; foliage good;^
thick, slightly pubescent ; a very beautiful variety.

X 4. Defiance. {Robi7ison^s.) — Flowers medium size, rich
vivid scarlet ; petals medium size, well formed, and of good
substance ; umbels large, compact, well-formed, presenting a
fine circular surface ; habit moderately vigorous, somewhat
trailing, short jointed ; foliage good ; a very rich scarlet
variety.

5. Marie Louise. (Davenports.) — Flowers medium size,
brilliant vermilion scarlet, with a deeper centre ; petals slightly
starry ; umbels medium size and of good form ; habit moder-
ately vigorous ; foliage rather small. Nearly or quite equal
to Robinson's Defiance.

6. LovEi. [BrielVs.) — Flowers rather small, lilac, dis-
tinctly striped with pink, like Phlox Van Houttw ; petals
somewhat starry ; umbels medium size ; habit not very
strong ; foliage small ; a distinct and very pretty striped
variety.

7. Beauty Supreme. — Flowers large, bright peach pink :
petals large, well-formed, and of good substance ; umbels
very large, rather flat ; habit vigorous, blooming freely ; foli-
age good ; a very showy variety.

8. Satellite. — Flowers medium size, orange scarlet ; pe-

General Notices. 277

tals medium size, fine form ; umbels medium size, Avell-
shaped ; habit moderately vigorous, trailing ; foliage good,
deeply serrated, and of a light green ; very pretty.

9. Henry Clay. [ElliDangcr &f Barry'' s. ) — Flowers, me-
dium size, clear waxen blush, with a deeper and delicately
shaded centre ; petals medium size, good form ; umbels well-
formed ; habit moderately vigorous ; foliage thick, pubsecent,
good ; a very beautiful variety.

10. Columbus. [Hovey'S.) — Flowers medium size, fine
purple, with a dark centre, surrounding a light-colored eye ;
petals medium size, flat and well-formed ; umbels medium
size, presenting a fine circular surface ; habit moderately
vigorous, good ; foliage good ; a fine dark verbena.

The following are the names, with brief descriptions, of
some of the French seedlings, from the same source as Reine
de Jour and Iphigene :— Heroine (Dufoy-s,) bluish lilac, dark
eye ; Chauviere's Minerva, rosy pink, occasionally comes
striped ; Dufoy's Morphee, blue, with white centre ; Dufoy's
Piccola, dard red, crimson centre ; Dufoy's Remarkable, deep
red, large and showy flower ; La Reine, a beautiful fancy
variety ; Chauviere's Madame Bauenzod, white, with a most
beautiful purple'eye. These are considered the best off'ered
for sale the present spring by the London florists. We hope
some of them may be introduced to our collections during
the year.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General M)tices.

Greenhouse Plants. — At page 148 I promised to give tlie names of
plants that would succeed those that were then in flower, and as you may
find many of the best sorts of plants left out altogether, it may appear to
many of your readers in the way of retrogading ; but I may as well give
the reason. I am expected to grow grapes in the greenliouse as well as
plants ; consequently to have a good crop of grapes is one object, and the
next is to liave as showy a houseful of plants as can be had throughout the
season. I find justice cannot be done to many of the hard-wooded plants
that are often attempted to be grown in such houses as mine, and where the
means are limited to a few frames only. I would recommend to grow well
what is grown, so that it may always appear healtliy and attractive ; and I
prefer such as are of simple culture, and that can be replaced in a year or

278 General Notices.

two. The most striking object at the present time is the Cineraria, — not
grown, as often times they are, in puny plants. I have several plants from
five to six feet in circumference, a complete mass of flower. I have a plant
of Newington beauty with upwards of a thousand flowers expanded. Great
credit is due to Messrs. Kendall, Ivery, Henderson, and others, for the great
improvement that has been made in this interesting plant. Next comes the
Petunia. To see ten or a dozen good bushy plants well up in flower is no
mean object. I think they never look so well at home as they do in the
greenhouse at this season of the year. Then there is the delightful tribe of
plants, the Verbena, to be found in most gardens ; not, however, where they
might be seen in all their splendid shades of color, Avith the Cineraria, Pe-
tunia, &c., but in some corner of the house or frame, or in the cutting pots
in a state of nudity, not intended to make their appearance until tliey can be
shown off" in the open ground, where they lose a part of tlieir gay and at-
tractive beauties by being surrounded with many of nature's lovely trea-
sures which open at tliat season. I have now upwards of a dozen of the
best varieties in flower, which have been kept in a cold frame witli the
Petunias all the winter ; the only difficulty in keeping them is to exclude
the frost and damp, and give them plenty of room, so that the air may circu-
late amongst them. To have fine plants now in flower, they should be
struck from cuttings in June or July, and get them well-formed by stopping,
&c., before the cold weather sets in ; through the winter let them be
sparingly supplied with water ; in Februaiy, give them a shifl; into the pots
in which they are to flower, and keep them a little closer in the frame. I
would also recommend to have a few fine plants of Scarlet geraniums, Rowl-
ing's Unique geranium, (a plant three feet in circumference looks well,
covered with flowers,) a good, early variety, a plant or two of Heliotropium
Voltairianum, a few calceolarias, with a few of the early flowering fuchsias,
(hybrida still remains in flower,) Tropaeolum tricolor and Lobbiania look well
as trailing plants, Amaryllis, such as vittata major, lineata, Forbesii, &lc.,
with a plant or two of Oxalis repens and perennis, Anagallis Moneli, Alonsia
incisifolia, Cuphea platycentra, with a pot or two of mignonette, and a few
ericas and lachenalias. All these fill up the house for the present time. —
[Gard. Journal, 1850, p. 259.)

Guano beneficial to American Plants. — I have been in the habit
of using guano and other strong manures in a liquid state for some years
past to tlie Rhododendron, Ghent, and Indian Azaleas ; and with great ad-
vantage. My practice is to use the guano in the proportion of one pound to
thirty gallons of manure-water, that runs from the stable and farm-yard. I
water the Rhododendrons and Ghent Azaleas as soon in the spring as I per-
ceive tlie blossom-buds beginning to swell, and continue it at the rate of
eight or ten gallons to eath plant until the flowers are expanded, varying
tlie watering according to the weather ; if the weather continues dry, water
is given once a week, but if damp, only once a fortnight. I also vary the
quantity given each time, according to the size of the plant, taking care that
each plant gets enough. As soon as the blossoms begin to drop I again
have the plants well drenched with guano-water, so as to encourage the

General Notices. 279

early growth of wood ; by tliis means the latter is made earlier, and is con-
sequently better ripened, and the foliage is of much deeper color than if no
stimnlus had been given. I treat the Indian or Greenhouse Azaleas in the
same way, witli the exception of giving tliem a short rest for a fortniglit or
three weeks after flowering, when they receive but little water of any kind.
I then bring them out, and give them such pruning as is necessary to keep
them in a good pyramidal shape, after which tliey are supplied with strong
guano-water, until they have completed their growtlis ; they are then placed
out of doors in a sunny situation, where they remain with the pots, protected
from the action of sun and wind until tlie autumn rains set in, when tliey are
housed for the winter. The advantage of manure or guano-water to the
Greenhouse Azalea is, that tlie blossoms are much finer, and the petals of
better texture ; and I find that by the use of manure-water tlie most decidu-
ous kinds retain their foliage through the winter, and are well clothed witli
foliage when in blossom, which I consider adds much to tlie beauty of the
plant ; even the old, but now rare one, " Flore pleno," under this treatment,
is an evergreen, and altliough one of the most delicate of Azaleas, it wOl
bear guano-water as well as any of the more robust kinds. When it has
not been convenient for me to have the manure-water previously prepared
for the Azaleas, I have placed a piece of guano, about tlie size of a walnut,
on the surface of the soil, and watered upon it from time to time, and I never
found any bad effects from this practice. — ( Gard. Chron. 1850, p. 277.)

Culture of the Chrysanthemum. — He observed tliat it was only
within the last few years that the chrysanthemum had attracted pub-
lic attention. Partial exhibitions had been held in different localities,
but it was now looked upon with as much interest as any other of our
previously more familiar favorites. He knew of no autumnal flower that
had greater claims upon our attention; being comparativly hardy, the
time it remained in perfection, the rich and varied shades of color, the
distinct and beautiful varieties of form, its adaptation to tlie wall, the
greenhouse, tlie conservatory, the drawing-room, or the cottage windows,
tended alike to make it the favorite of the wealthy amateur,, as well as tlie
humble cottager. Mr. Holmes then proceeded with remarks on the new
varieties, and the difficulty of obtaining seeds in tliis climate. The only
important improvement he had noticed was in their cultivation; some of the
oldest varieties were still the very best. For instance, for incurved flowers,
Goliah and two colored incurve stood unequalled. In the other class, superb
clustered yellows were far before the imported new ones. If we could not
save seeds, he thought we should reject all the new ones that are not im-
provements.

He would recommend only tlie early sorts for the pleasure garden where
protection is inconvenient, such as Queen, Imperial, Goliah, Princess Marie,
&c. ; for, if tlie flowers once become frozen, they would not expand kindly.
When the object of the cultivator was for exhibition, whether for cut blooms
or specimen plants, very much of his success would depend on a judicious
selection of varieties for their respective purposes. He particularized the
sorts most adapted for specimen plants, such as Phidias, Lady Camden,

280 General Notices.

Queen Victoria, Vesta, and Queen of the Belgians ; and yet they would be
almost useless where cut flowers were an object ; for the latter purpose he
recommended Goliah, Aristides, Queen of Gold, Beauty, and others of the
like habit. In growing a collection of chrysanthemums he observed a great
difference would be soon discovered in their time of flowering; he, there-
fore would advise discrimination between the early and late sorts, tlie latest
being generally tlie fastest and best, such as Perfection, Campistreraii,
Kingdom, and two colored incurve. It was necessary to pay attention to the
time of striking ; for instance, the late sorts should be struck in the autumn,
for if delayed till spring they were liable to prove abortive. For the propa-
gation of the medium sorts, such as Pilot, General Marien, Defiance, «fec.,
the third week in March would be found the most suitable. For tlie early
sorts, such as Imperial, Queen, Princess Marie, the latter end of April was
preferable. He preferred cuttings to suckers, and placed them round the
edge of five-inch pots. The soil was not of much consequence, so that
there was enough of sand mixed with it and sufficient drainage. He placed
them in a close frame, with a little bottom heat ; when the cuttings were
struck he hardened them off, and shifted them in five-inch pots, protecting
them for a short time, then finally shifted them into the pots or place where
tliey were intended to bloom. Then was the time for the cultivator to deter-
mine the number of plants he intends growing. If intended for cut blooms,
regardless of height, habit, or appearance, the plants must be divested of all
side-shoots in tlieir early stages, and trained up in single stems, and not by
any means to stop them, and only one or two flowers on each stem ; all
superfluous buds to be removed in their early stages. For growing speci-
men plants in pots he shifted them at once into nine or eleven-inch pots ; the
soil equal parts of forest loam and well-rotted manure, with plenty of drain-
age. One or three plants in each pot, placed in a situation Vk'here they
could get all the sun and air possible, as this tends to keep tliem dwarf and
compact. As they advanced in growth he trained them so as to secure a
free circulation of air. Plunging tlie pots had a two-fold advantage, by
securing the roots from drought and preventing them from being blown over
by the wind. He strictly cautioned growers against keeping their plants
wet and soddened, as a loss of foliage would be the result, as would also be
the case if an opposite extreme were adopted. As soon as they showed
tlieir flower-buds he at once thinned them, leaving only the centre bloom —
that is, he stripped off all side-buds, that additional strengtli might be given
to the remaining buds, and give them, when expanded, uniform size. With
regard to liquid manures, Mr. H. had no doubt that to such a strong feeding
plant, if judiciously applied, liquid manure would be highly advantageous ;
but he thought it possible to grow the chrysanthemum too strong, thereby
causing the centre bloom to go " blind." To preserve the flowers in per-
fection, he said they must be protected not only from frost, but also from
rain, particularly from the sooty particle that always accompanies a London
rain. Mr. Croxford preferred cuttings from the best and strongest of the
suckers. Mr. Tant had taken cuttings from the best and strongest of the
suckers, and also from the stem of the old plant, with the same result. He

Domestic Notices. 281

considered liquid manure highly beneficial for tlie well development of the
foliage and flowers, but it should be withheld when the flowers begin to
expand. Half-a-pint of guano, dissolved in six or eight gallons of water,
and applied as circumstances required, he had found highly beneficial. Mr.
Kendall tliought tliat the application of liquid manures, during the summer
months, was highly beneficial. Mr. James had applied liquid manures to his
plants in all stages and seasons, and from his success he Avas warranted in
using it in the same manner again. Mr. Taylor had struck his cuttings
later tlian Mr. Holmes had recommended, and had been most successful ; his
finest flowers were grown against a soutli wall in a well-prepared border,
tlie flowers being protected by glasses hung against the wall. Mr. Boff"
struck his cuttings about the latter end of April, and when shifted into the
flowering pots they were plunged out in rows close together, but tliree feet
between the rows ; he frequently finds that one-third of his plants were much
inferior in flowers to the remainder, and he sought information on such an
anomaly. Mr. Merry thought tliat tlie cause might be in the plants rooting
tlirough the pots, and disturbed at tlie time the flower-buds were forming, as
Mr. BofFhad stated that he frequently turned the pots round, so as to break
any of the roots that had gone through. Mr. Holmes, to prevent the in-
jurious effects of rooting through the pot when plunged, placed two bricks
on edge at tlie bottom, thus leaving a hollow space below the pot. Mr.
Kendall attained tlie same end in an easier manner, by simply making the
hole six inches deeper tlian the bottom of the pot. Mr. Sanderson expressed
his gratification at the results of tlie discussion, and proposed a vote of thanks
to Mr. Holmes, which was duly accorded." — (Gard. Journal, 1849, p. 229.;

Art. II. Domestic JVotices.

Worcester County Horticultural Society. — The annual meeting
was held on the 2d of January last, and the following choice of officers was
made for the current year : —

President — John Milton Earle.

Vice Presidents — Stephen Salisbury, Dr. Wm. Workman, Wm. T. Sler-
rifield.

Treasurer — Frederic W. Paine.

Librarian — Anthony Chase.

Secretary — George Jaques.

Subsequently, at a meeting of the trustees, the following additional elec-
tions were made : —

Committee on the Ldbrary — Daniel W. Lincoln, Dr. Wm. Workman.

Committee on Fruits — George Jaques, Chairm/tn ; Samuel H. Colton, D.
W. Lincoln.

Committee on Flowers — Dr. Samuel Flagg, Chairman ; Dr. Wm. Work-
man, Meltiah B. Green.

VOL. XVI. NO. VI. 36

282 Domestic Notices.

Committee on Vegetables — Charles Hadwin, Chairman ; Gardiner Paine,
John C. Ripley.

Committee of Arrangements — Daniel Waldo Lincoln, Chairman ; Wm.
M. Bickford, Dr. Samuel Flagg, Charles Paine, David S. Messenger,
George Jaques, John Gray, Jr.

The folloAving votes were passed at the same meeting of the trustees : —

Voted — To have an Exhibition, to continue three days, commencing on
Wednesday preceding the Fourth of July.

Voted — To have an Exhibition, to continue three days, during " Cattle
Show Week."

The society is in a very prosperous condition. They have purchased a
beautiful lot, and will probably erect a large and commodious Hall upon it
next year. It is a thing devoutly to be prayed for, that our next Legislature
may be endowed with such an enlargement of the understanding, as to per-
ceive it to be their duty to afford some pecuniary assistance to these most
useful institutions — the Horticultural Societies ! Are they not already more
useful and more important than the Agricultural Societies ? We think that
they are; — ^to add one word more — We know that they are. — Yours, J.
Worcester, May, 1850.

American Pears on the Quince Stock. — Your remark respecting
tiie growth of American varieties of the pear upon the quince, has led me to
make some inquiries and to institute some experiments, of which you shall
be duly informed, whenever I get far enough to report progress. In the
mean time, I simply add that I have seen the Buffum upon quince — one year
from tlie bud — five and six feet growth, equalling even tlie Glout Morceau
in that respect. How it will continue to grow, I am taking measures to
satisfy myself fully.

By the way, how little we hear or see of that capital market pear, the
Doyenne d' Hiver or Coffin's Virgalieu. Indeed, the only notice of it that I
have any were met with is on the 457th page of tlie third volume of the Hor-
ticulturist, by Mr. Manning. I have, or rather, I recently had, till very
lately die sacra fames auri prevailed over my better judgment, — a tree of
this variety, some forty or more years old, a great and constant bearer ; the
fruit always fair and handsome ; the tree upright and graceful in its form ;
and both the fruit, (except that it is larger and later,) and tlie tree so closely
resembling the old Doyenne Blanc, that I make no doubt of its being a
seedling or hybrid offspring of tlie venerable old St. Michael.

The flavor of the fruit is but little below first rate, certainly better than
that of many classed as second rate. Notwithstanding, in every other res-
pect, the tree and its fruit belong near the top of the list of pears, denomi-
nated "Best." It is very fine for cooking and for preserves. — Yours, J.
Worcester, May, 1850.

[We are glad to learn that our correspondent is about assisting in the
desirable task of ascertaining all those varieties Avhich will succeed upon
the quince ; and we shall look for the results of his experiments from time to
time, which cannot but add much to the limited stock of information which
we now possess on the subject. It may be as well to remark, however, that

A7iswe7's to Correspondents. 283

the results of one year are most deceptive : we have had some pears which
grew exceedingly rapid on the quince the first year, but which have failed
to make any growth tlie second. Swan's Orange, grafted on an apple by mis-
take, grew better tlie first year than it did double worked on the quince and
pear. The fact tliat the Baflum does well the first year, will be no index of
what it will do after it has borne one crop of fruit ; yet from its affinity to
the White Doyenne, it may be a variety which will do finely on the quince-

The Coffin's Virgoulouse has been incidentally noticed in our Magazine ;
it has annually been exhibited for several years, by Mr. Manning, Mr. Cabot,
and other Salem cultivators. It is a very good winter pear, worthy of cul-
tivation. We have a description and drawing of the fruit, and have only
been waiting to ascertain its true name and origin before publishing an
account of it in the Magazine. — Ed.']

The Scotch Larch for a Hedge or Screen. — By the way, what
do you think of tlie Scotch Larch for a screen hedge ? It thickens under
the shears admirably ; and tlien, how beautiful to have a hedge or screen
with a phase for each season of the year ; its fresh, delicate, opening buds
in tlie spring ; its bright, rich green in the summer ; its various hues in
autumn ; and its naked branches for winter. Would it not, in an appropriate
place, be very beautiful? — Yours, J. Worcester, May, 1850.

Art. III. Answers to Correspondents.

A Budget of Questions. — Please inform me what is the best plum stocJc
to work the peach upon ? I have a fine peach on the plum, and it bears the
winter decidedly better than others growing on tlieir natural roots. I under-
stand that Col. Perkins has tlie peach in this way, some forty or more years
old.

[So far as our experience goes, we have found the Mussel plum to make
the best stock for the peach. It grows freely and unites readily, the stock
swelling as rapidly as the scion : seedlings from free growing seedlings may
do as well, but we have not tried them. We have long been convinced,
that peaches for amateur collections, at least, should always be grown on
the plum. They grow slower, — ripen their wood more readily, — stand the
winter better, — and are in no danger of borers. — Ed.'\

Does the Paradise d'Automne grow well upon quince ?

[Not with us : we work it upon the pear. — Ed."]

What are the best quince-bottom pears for double working ?

[W^e have only tried a few sorts : the Beurre d'Amanlis, Vailed Franche,
and Sucre Verte have proved excellent sorts. — Ed.'\

The Bartlett, Seckel, and probably many other varieties, would do much
better double-worked than tliey do in direct contact with the quince.

What are the best climbers for covering an arbor ? Say the best single
one, the best tliree, and the best six or eight ?

[For the best single climber, if flowers were not an object, we should take

284 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

the Virginia creeper. If for the flowers, the Sweet-scented Monthly Honey-
suckle. For the best three, we should take any one of the fine Prairie roses.
Wistaria sinensis, and the Honeysuckle. For the best eight, two Prairie roses,
the Crimson Boursault, Clematis flammula, the Sweet-scented Monthly,
Scarlet Monthly, and Yellow Honeysuckles, and Wistaria sinensis. — Ed.'\

Can you settle the question about budding the peach ? Are single, double,
and triple buds equally successful ? If not, Avhich are the best ? Which are
the next best? &c. — lours, /.

[We have found no difference in either, — anything but a flower bud.
—Ed.]

Best Twelve Verbenas. — R. T. S. The following are twelve of the
most distinct verbenas, both old and new : — St. Margaret, Reine de Jour,
Susanna, Suzette, Eximia, Defiance, Iphigene, Gem, Othello, Exquisite,
Odorata, and Marie Louise.

Best Twelve Dahlias, both Fancy and Show Flowers. — An Ex-
hibittir. If you procure the following, and bloom them well, you need
not fear competition : — Shoiv Floivers : Mont Blanc, Louis Philippe, Miss
Chaplin, Miss Vyse, Richard Cobden, Cleopatra, Admiral Stopford, Black
Prince, Box, Purple Standard, Duke of Wellington, Victoria Regina.
Fancy : Picote^, Hoffgartner Meyer, Roi de Pontelles, Mrs. Shaw Le Fevre,
General Cavaignac, and Florence Dombey.

Art. IV. MassachtLsetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, March 30. Exhibited. — Flowers from A. Bowditch, a fine col-
lection of hyacinths. From P. Barnes, fine seedling azaleas.

GRATUITIES AWARDED.

Hyacinths : For the best display, to A. Bowditch, the Society's silver
medal. [The notice of this exhibition was accidentally omitted in
regular course.]

April G. Exhibited. — Vegetables : From E. Burns, a brace of Allen's
Victory cucumbers. From T. Needham, a brace each, of Wheildon and
Young Champion cucumbers. From A. G. Parker, lettuce,

April 13. Exhibited. — Fruit : From J. F. Allen, Black Hamburgh and
Pitmaston White Cluster grapes. From E. Burns, Keen's Seedling straw-
berries.

May 4. Exhibited. — Flowers : From Joseph Breck & Co., a fine dis-
play of hyacinths. From E. Burns, two bouquets.

May 11. Exhibited. — Flowers : From Joseph Breck &. Co., a fine dis-
play of hyacinths. From E. Burns, fine plants of fuchsias and bouquets.

PREMIUMS AWARDED.

Hyacinths : For the best display, to J. Breck & Co., $5.

For the second best, to J. Breck & Co., $3.
Gratuity: To E. Burns for fuchsias and bouquets $1.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 285

May 18. The openino; of the Hall for the exhibitions of the season took
place to-day ; but owing to tlie cool weather and backwardness of the sea-
son, the display was rather small. Neither plants in pots or cut flowers
were numerous. The most noted things were a few very fine heaths, from
M. P. Wilder. The show of fruit was greatly enhanced by the liberal con-
tribution of Mr. Allen, who sent seventeen varieties, all well ripened. Our
report is meagre, owing to the very small number of new plants or flowers
which were sent for exhibition.

From tlie President of tlie Society, a variety of perennial flowering plants.
From M. P. Wilder, azaleas, among which were Gledstanesii and variegata
fringea ; pelargoniums, Annais, Flash, and others ; and fine heaths, viz.,
CavendishiV, ventricosa breviflora, v. hirsOita, v. dlba, ti"icolor, &c. From
T. Needham, a fine specimen of the new Ceropegia elegans. From A.
Bowditch, azaleas, bouquets, &,c.

From Hovey & Co., a plant of the new and beautiful annual Nemophila
maculata, in full flower. From J. Breck & Co., Spirae'a pruniflora pleno, and
other flowers. From L. Davenport, Robinson's Defiance verbena, a variety
of fine roses, and Cineraria Beauty of Newington, &c., &c. From J. A.
Kenrick, fine specimens of the Double flowering peach, almond, apple, and
cherry, Avith other flowers. From E. Burns, fine fuchsias, and cut flowers.
From J. Nugent, pelargoniums and cut flowers.

PREMIUMS AWARDED.

Pelargoniums. — Class I. — To M. P. Wilder, for the best six new varie-
ties, $6.

Second prize not awarded.
Cut Flowers. — To James Nugent, for the best display, $3.

To J. Breck & Co., second best, $2.
Fuchsias. — To E. Burns, for tlie best six varieties, $Q.

To E. Burns, for tlie second best, $4.
Heaths. — To M. P. Wilder, for the best varieties, $3.

To M. P. Wilder, for the second best, $2.
Greenhouse Plants. — To M. P. Wilder, for tlie best display, of not
less than twelve plants, $8.

To E. Bums, for the second best, $6.

gratuities.

To M. P. WOder, for bouquets, $2.

To A. Bowditch, for bouquets, ,$2.

To E. Burns, for the same, $'2.

To L. Davenport, for cut flowers, ^2.

To Miss Kenrick, for the same, $2.

To T. Needham, for Ceropegia elegans, the Society's silver medal.
Fruit. — From J. F. Allen, 17 varieties of grapes, among which Avere the
Black Portugal, Black Hamburgh, Red Chasselas, Chasselas de Fontain-
bleau, Gros Noir of Lorraine, Vcrdelho, Tottenliam' Park Muscat, Decan's
Superb, Florentine, and Purple Muscat ; Elton and May Duke cherries ;
tliree sorts of figs ; Hunt's Early Tawney nectarines.

286 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

From T. Needham, Black Hamburgh grapes. From J. Gordon, Easter
Beurr^ pears, prepared for keeping after the manner of D. T. Curtis.

From F. Tudor, Duchesse of Angouleme and Easter Beurre pears, ripened
by D. T. Curtis.

The Easter Beurr6 pears from Mr. Tudor were well ripened and of excel
lent flavor : the source to which Mr. Tudor refers is in the subjoined note : —

To Hon, J. S. Cabot, Chairman of the Fruit Committee : Dear Sir, —
Early in April I had several dozen of the Easter Beurr6 pears ; the product
of Naliant. They were the remains of a large quantity, part of Avhich had
rotted, part shrivelled, and most of them intractable. As to ripening — at the
request of Mr. D. T. Curtis, about two dozen were handed over to him, for
experimenting upon, by his process of ripening. I think I may say they
were worthless.

Pie will exhibit to your committee the fruits which were handed to him,
after going through his process. I am respectfully, your obedient servant,

Boston, May 14, 1850. Frederic Tudor.

The committee tested several varieties of grapes from Mr. Allen ; amongst
the varieties was a seedling of a rich flavor, raised by Mr. A. The Decan's
Superb has a fault of losing many berries on the cluster by premature
decay. Mr. A.'s opinion is not favorable to the growing of this variety.

Vegetables. — From M. P. Wilder, Downing's Mammoth or Colossal
rhubarb.

May 25. Exhibited. — Flowers : From M. P. Wilder, fine specimens of
the beautiful ^pirse^a prunifolia pleno, which proves perfectly hardly and
flowers profusely. From M. Tidd, Woburn, a seedling Cactus, raised be-
tween C. grandiflora and speciosissimus. From Hovey & Co., twenty-four
varieties of fine pansies. From Messrs. Winship & Co., about forty kinds
of floweruig slirubs and plants, a fine display. Cut flowers in variety from
J. Breck & Co., Miss Kenrick, Miss Russell, E. M. Richards, A. Bowditch
and others.

PREMIUMS awarded.

Pansies. — To Messrs. Hovey & Co., for the best twelve varieties of
pansies, $S.
For the second best, to Hovey & Co., $2.
For the third best, to J. Breck & Co., $1.

gratuities.

To Winship & Co., for cut flowers, $2.

To Breck «fe Co., for the same, $1.

To A. Bowditch, for the same, $1.

To Miss Kenrick, for basket of flowers, $1.

To Miss Russell, for a large bouquet, $1.
Fruits. — From J. F. Allen, three varieties of figs, two of cherries and
nectarines. From T. Needham, fine Black Hamburgh and White Frontignan
grapes. From W. C. Strong, Black Hamburgh and Chasselas grapes.

Horticultural Operations for June. 287

HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS

FOR JUNE.
FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines in the greenhouse will now be swelling their fruit rapidly,
and where the thinning has all been done they will only require the ordinary
routine of air and moisture. Give the former early in the morning in fine
weather, and close rather early in the afternoon; keep the house well
damped in fine weather ; watering the floor morning and night. If dry
weather should set in after the late drenching rains, the border should have
one thorough watering about the last of the month, giving at the same time
a slight sprinkling of guano ; mulching will be also of great benetit to the
border in the dry weather of summer. Continue to stop all laterals that
push at the first joint ; see that all the bunches are well shouldered, and if
very handsome clusters are an object, it may be well to go over now, and thin
out, here and there, such berries as crowd the bunch and impede their swel-
ling up to a large size. If the borders have not been dug, they should at
once be completed.

Vines in the open air, as soon as the shoots have attained the length of
two eyes beyond the fruit-buds, should be immediately topped ; any large
shoots may now be cut away without any danger from bleeding ; tie in all
the new Avood carefully, and do not let the vines become too much crowded.
Young vines raised from cuttings in pots should now have a shift into a lar-
ger size, and be kept in a frame with a mild bottom heat.

Now is just the time to graft vines in the open ground, after the shoots
have grown two or three inches.

Strawberry Beds will now need to be thoroughly wed out, as this can-
not be done again till after the crop is gathered. If nice clean fruit is
wanted, new straw, cut up short, should be strewn along tlie rows and among
the plants, or, if not convenient, short grass may be used ; this will protect
it from being covered with earth during heavy rains. New beds may be
successfully made all the month, where it has been forgotten or omitted
for want of time. The crop will be as good the next year as if the plants
were set out in April.

Fruit Trees will need some attention now ; those that are very for-
ward by the last of the month should have the top of the longest shoots nipped
off. Young trees, bearing rather heavy crops, would do better to have a
good mulching of rotten cow-dung or old litter of any kind. Plum trees
that are infested with curculios should be shaken twice a day ; gathering
up the insects in a cloth and burning them.

Peach Trees in pots, started in the greenhouse or grapery, may now be
moved into the open air — in a sheltered place. Water freely with liquid
manure, as tlie fruit attains a good size.

Fig Trees may also be removed to the open air.

flower department.
Camellias may now be removed to the open air, if tlieir buds are well
set, if not, they should remain unler cover a few days longer. Place them

288 Horticultural Operations for June.

in a situation not too much exposed to the sun at fost. Inarchings may
now be cut from the old plants.

Dahlias should all be planted out this month ; beginning immediately
for one set, for early flowering ; and a second lot for show flowers, about
the 20tli or 25th of the month ; the last will come in just in time for pro-
ducing superior blooms. Stake up the plants as soon as they are set out,
as one violent wind might destroy many of the best.

Roses should now be planted out in the borders for summer blooming.

Verbenas should now be turned out into tlie ground.

Hyacinths may be taken up the last of the month.

Ranunculuses avHI require now to be top-dressed witli a little sand or
manure, and occasionally have a liberal watering, should the weather prove
dry.

Neapolitan Violets should now be divided and reset for blooming next
winter.

Azaleas should now be removed to the open air, and placed in a half-
shady, cool, airy situation.

Carnations and Picotees should be speedily planted, if not already
done. Seedlings may be planted out now so as to acquire strength.

Heaths may now be plunged out into a cool, half-shady situation, or be
turned out of the pots into a prepared bed, where they will make a rapid
growth.

AcHiMENES AND Gloxinias will now need larger pots.

Pansies may now be propagated from layers or cuttings for a fall stock.

Salvias, Scarlet Geraniums, Heliotropes, and similar plants, may
now be turned out into the open ground, or upon the lawn.

Begonias now shifled, and kept in a warm part of the house, will be
beautiful all summer.

German Asters, Balsams, and other annuals raised in frames, may
now be set out in the open ground.

Pelargoniums now in bloom, should be kept well watered, and placed in
an airy part of the house, near the glass ; shade while in bloom.

Stephanotus floribundus should now be kept in the warmest part of
the house, and it will grow away very rapidly, — blooming all summer.

Cactuses will now be in bloom and will require plenty of water.

Double Chinese Primroses should now be kept in a cool, airy, half-
shaded part of tlie house, or in a frame facing the nortli. Cuttings may be
put in now.

Seedling Calceolarias should now be shifled into larger pots.

Greenhouse Plants of all kinds should be removed to the open air,
placing them in a half-shady place, where they will not be blown about and
injured by liigh winds.

Annuals of all sorts should now be transplanted into the places where
they are to bloom.

Perennials, such as Phloxes, Delphiniums, Aconitums, &c., should all
be neatly tied up to tall stakes ; in this way they always present a much
finer appearance.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTURE.

JULY, 1850.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. The Valley of Lake Champlain^ — Its Climate,
Productions, &c. By Chauncy Goodrich, Esq., Burling-
ton, Vermont.

As the valley of Lake Champlain has just been connected
with the Atlantic coast by two railroads, forming a part of a
line, soon to be completed to Lake Ontario and the great
lakes of the West, some account of the valley and its pro-
ductions may not be uninteresting to your readers.

Lake Champlain extends from Whitehall. (Skeensborough
of olden time), lat. 43° 23', to St. Johns, in Canada, lat.
45° 18'. Its elevation is about one hundred feet above tide
water, and the average width about three miles. The widest
part, which is opposite Burlington, is less than ten miles.
This is a classic lake to every American, — having at all times
from our earliest history been the highway from Canada to
the river Hudson, and the theatre of more important military
and naval operations than any other place in our country.
Millions of dollars were expended in building forts on its
shores, while the whole country was an unbroken wilderness.

The valley of the lake may average south twenty miles —
east about fifty miles, bounded by the Green Mountain range,
dividing its waters from the river Connecticut — and west
about forty miles, bounded by the Adirondack mountains,
dividing its waters from the rivers Hudson and St. Law-
rence. The west side of the lake for seventy miles is very
broken — but this I shall leave for some resident to describe.

VOL. XVI. NO. VII. 37

290

The Valley of Lake Ckatnplain,

To the base of the Green Mountain range from the lake
will average about twenty miles.

The prevailing rock is black slate, sand, and limestone.
There is every variety of soil, though a gravelly or clayey
loam predominates. There is a large amount of intervale or
bottom land on Otter, Winooski, Lamoille, and Missisco riv-
ers and some smaller streams. Springs and small streams
;ire abundant, and for farming land it is the best tract in New
England of like extent.

Climate. This may be seen by the following tables.
The average mean temperature for the last twelve years has
been —

• January, 20.06 July, 69.87

February, 19.01 August, 68.43

March, 29.42 September, 58.87

April, 42.07 October, 46.88

May, 54.86 November, 37.17

June, 64.72 December, 24.42

Greatest heat, July 12 and 13, 1849, . 100^

Greatest cold, January 11, 1848, . — 25°

Greatest range, .... 125°

Average annual range, . . . 110°

The thermometer rarely falls to 20° — often not lower than

14°. But 17° may be about an average for the lowest point

in winter. The lake at Burlington is usually closed about

the first week in February, though it sometimes remains

open during the winter, as was the case the last season.

Rain. The average quantity of rain for the last twelve
years has been :

January, 1.81

February, 1.38
March, 2.21

April, 1.84

May, 2.95

June, 3.25

Least quantity of rain, 1849,
Greatest quantity, 1847,

July,

3.70

August,

3.27

September, 3.09

October,

2.32

November,

2.42

December,

2.53

,

26.35 inches,

^

38.55 "

its Climate, Productions, ^'c. 291

The average quantity of snow is about 72 inches, and the
time for good sleighing about two months.

The average time for currants to be in full bloom is May 7.

Cherry and plum, . . . . " 14.

Apple, . . . . . " 22.

For these extracts from tables I am indebted to our distin-
guished naturalist and historian, Rev. Z. Thompson. The
observations were made at his residence near the university
of Vermont, at Burlington — one mile from, and two hundred
and fifty-six feet above, the lake.

By these tables it may be seen that spring and fall are both
late. This is caused in part by the formation of the lake.
It has a small outlet, and receives no water but what orig-
inates in its own valley, — consequently the ice remains until
it melts out, and, as farmers say, " keeps the fruit blossoms
back." Although in blossom the 20th of May, from the
10th to 20th of October is the usual time for picking winter
apples. Perhaps in no part of the country is the apple crop
as sure. There has not been a failure from spring frosts
since I have been a resident of the valley, (twenty-three
years) and but once a failure of currants, (1834.)

No town on the borders of the lake was permanently set-
tled before the American revolution. A few scattered set-
tlers were in many towns, but they all left, so that in 1783,
(sixty-seven years since) settlements were commenced. Ev-
ery man sowed apple seed and soon planted an orchard, and
to encourage it, eight years after, the legislature exempted
from taxation all land planted with apple trees, at the rate of
forty to the acre. Nearly all of the orchards planted by the
first settlers remain, and many have been since planted.
With the poor attention the orchards now receive, the valley
on the Vermont side is capable of exporting thirty thousand
barrels of apples yearly, and with proper attention to the old
orchards this amount may soon be doubled.

The early settlers of Canada brought trees of all the best
French apples with them, and many pears, plums, (fcc.
When it became an English province many English mer-
chants and farmers settled in and near the large towns, and

292 The Valley of Lake Champlain.

brought all the best English apples and other fruits. The
principal early export of this valley was lumber, all of which
went to Canada.

Many of the most enterprising settlers were engaged in it,
who, in their visits to Canada, soon collected most of the
French and English apples, many of which are now growing,
known only by local names.

Others were brought from the older New England states
and New York, with the names lost, and afterwards known
by many local names or the general term of " graft applks."
Probably in no other part of the United States is there so
great a variety of superior apples, with the true names un-
known, as in this valley. There are numerous seedling or
native apples cultivated, each being a favorite with its owner.
KfeiD superior seedlings will soon be more generally known.
Orchards have been greatly neglected, — and nurseries so
much that those who wish to plant many trees are obliged
to send abroad for them. But fashions are changing, — nur-
series from one to four years old are common, and trees will
soon be very plenty. There is also more attention paid to
orchards, but less perhaps than any other portion of a farm.
All the native or seedling apples of New England which are
cultivated here grow well, and also English, French, Prus-
sian or German varieties.

The Newtown Pippin is common in some places, and in
good seasons, in favorable locations, is quite perfect ; while in
cold or wet seasons it is smaller and inclined to be spotted.
The same to some extent may be said of the Esopus
Spitzenburg, — but it is more hardy than the Newtown Pippin,
and is much cultivated. The Yellow Bellflower has grown
well and proved hardy in the northern county of the State
where old trees are growing.

Pears have been but little cultivated. In some towns
there are pear trees on almost every farm planted about sixty
years since. They are uniformly hardy. Many of them are
still native seedlings, though a considerable portion were
grafted when young. Among old pears the St. Michaels,
(White Doyenne) is the most common. No pear is here

The May Bug o?- Brown Beetle. 293

more healthy. There have been for a few years past many
young pear trees planted, — and thousands are now planted
yearly. They are generally healthy, but sometimes affected
with " the blight.''^ The native or Canada plum grows wild
the whole length of the valley of the lake. Cranberries are
common in the swamps. Plum trees of all kinds flourish
and are free from any disease. In some places the Curculio
is common, in others unknown.

Peaches are but little cultivated, though some years they
are not uncommon. Grapes are common in villages. The
Isabella ripens but needs protection in winter : The varie-
ties mostly cultivated are the native sorts of New England.
Fastolf, Franconia and Antwerp raspberries do not " winter
kill."

The western part of Vermont having so easy a communi-
cation with New York and Canada, and being divided by a
range of mountains from the Eastern, has had but little inter-
course with the other parts of New England. Hereafter
the course of travel and trade will be much changed.

Burlington, Vt., June, 1850.

Art. II. The May Bug or Brown Beetle, {Melolontha.)
By J. W. TuTTLE, Plattshurgh, N. Y.

This insect has proved more destructive to the plum in
this region than the Curculio, or indeed any thing else ; and
yet, strange as it may seem, it has not been mentioned in any
work on Fruit culture, to my knowledge, with the exception
of the second edition of Goodrich's Northern Fruit Culturist,
just published at Burlington, Vt.

We often hear the Curculio mentioned as the only insect
destructive to the plum, and I notice that in a recent com-
munication of Dr. Wendell, of Albany, to your magazine, he
states such to be the case at that place.

The May Bug commences its depredations about the time
the buds begin to open, and continues until the fruit is about

294 The Second Congress of Fruit Growers.

half grown. Its work is done in the evening, commencing
about twilight and continuing until about midnight, when it
buries itself in the ground under the tree. It attacks first
the leaves and then the flowers and young fruit, and appears
to be much more numerous in some seasons than others.
In 1847 I lost four good-sized plum trees, of the Lombard
variety, from the continued attacks of this insect, devouring
the entire foliage. In 1848 and 1849 there were but few to
be seen. This year they are more numerous than I have
ever known them before. I have in my fruit yard some
fifty or sixty plum trees, of difl'erent varieties, from which I
gather from three to six quarts every warm evening. For
the young trees, the mode adopted is to pick them ofl" with
the hand and place them in a pail partly filled with water, to
be subsequently destroyed. For the larger trees, a couple of
sheets are sewed together about half way, and so adjusted
about the tree as to cover the ground, on which the bugs
are shaken, and placed in a pail of water as before.

Now if you will go among your trees in the evening, I
doubt not you will find them covered with these bugs, prin-
cipally on the plum, but occasionally on the apple and pear.
The principal damage is done to the plum.

I have read several articles from time to time in which I
have seen this bug mentioned as altogether harmless to veg-
etation, one of which is in the September number of the Al-
bany Cultivator for 1844 ; and I think it high time the error
was corrected, as it is now the most formidable enemy to the
plum to be found in this vicinity.

Plattsbiirgh, June 3, 1850.

Art III. The Second Sessioii of the Congress of Fruit
Growers at New York. By the Editor.

The second meeting of the Congress of Fruit Growers
assembled at New York, in Castle Garden, under the aus-
pices of the American Institute, in October last, and the pro-
ceedings have just been published.

The Second Congress of Fruit Growers. 295

We have already given some account of the domgs of the
Congress, (Vol. XV, p. 513,) and reported the names of the
fruits which were adopted for general cultivation. We have
also, in our present volume, in our " Pomological Gossip,''
given some account of the discussion which took place res-
pecting the strawberry and other fruits ; and now, with the
complete Proceedings of the Congress before us, we shall
endeavor to present an abstract of all the information which
may be valuable to the fruit cultivator.

At the first session of the Congress of Fruit Growers, in
1848, it was voted that the general committee should make
out a list of REJECTED ffuits to be presented for the appro-
val of the delegates ; consequently, after the organization of
the meeting, this was the first business which came up. The
chairman, Mr. A. J. Downing, read the report and the names
of the fruits proposed for rejection. After considerable dis-
cussion, on motion of Mr. C. M. Hovey, it was voted that the
entire list, excepting such as any member might object to,
should be adopted by the Congress. The following is the
list as finally passed : —

REJECTED FRUITS.
PEARS.

Croft Castle, Bezi Vaet,

Alexander of Russia, Bruno de Bosco,

Amiral, Blanquet a longue queue,

Aston Town, Burgomaster,

Autumn Bergamot, Cuvelier,

D'Amour, Chat Grille,

Angers, Chair a Dame,

Beurre d'Angleterre, Charles Van Mons,

Beurre Seutin, Cassolette,

Beurre of Bolwiller, Compte de Fresnel,

Bon Chretien d'Esperen, Copea,

Bon Chretien of Brussels, Caillat Rosat,

Bergamotte Sylvange, Clara,

Bergamotte Fortunee, Clapp,

Beauty of Winter, Citron de Sirentz,

Belmont, Dearborn of Van Mons,

296

The Second Congress of Fruit Growers.

Downton,

Duquesne d'Ete,

Doyenne Mons,

Deschamp's New Late,

Dunbarton,

Doyenne Diere.

Endicott,

Elton,

Frederic of Prussia,

Famenga,

Forme Urban iste,

Fantasie Van Mons,

Forme des delices,

French Iron,

Green Yair,

Grisse Bonne,

Garnstone,

Green Catherine,

Green Sugar,

Gros Blanquet,

Green Chisel,

Hays,

Hathorne's SeedHng,

Horticulture,

Hastiveau,

Ipswich Holland,

Jargonelle, (of the French,)

Kramelsbirne,

Lincoln,

Louis of Bologna,

Lederbirne,

Louise Bonne,

Lansac,

Madam Yert,

Millar's Seedling,

Marquise.

Marcelis,

Navez,

Orange,

Orange Tulippe,

Phillips,

Pit four,

Piatt's Bergamot,

Passe Long Bras,

Prince's Portugal,

Pope's Scarlet Major,

Pitt's Marie Louise,

Royal d'Hiver,

Rouse Lench,

Rousselett St. Vincent,

Sans Pepins,

Swan's Egg,

Surpasse Meuris,

Saint Bruno,

Swiss Bergamot,

Souvreine,

Sickler,

Thompson, of N. Hampshire,

Tucker's Seedling,

Trubserherdz Dulle,

Whitfield,

Winter Orange,

Wurtzer d' Automne,

Yutte,

Crassane,

Winter Crassane,

Citron of Bohemia,

Madotte.

XIO;

Gloucester White,
Henry's Weeping Pippin,
Gray House,

Red Ingestrie,

White Ingestrie,

Lord Nelson, (Kirke's,)

The Second Congress of Fruit Growers. 297

Marmalade Pippin, Beachamwell's,

Rowland's Red Streak, Cathead,

Woolman's Red Sweet, Caroline, (English,)

Woolman's White Sweet, Dodge's Early Red,

Golden Reinette, Fenouillet Rouge,

Pen nock, French Gray Reinette,

Hoary Morning, Muscovia,

Large Red Sweeting, Irish Peach,'

Red Doctor, Pigeonette,

Grand Sachem, Salina.

The meeting then took up the list of fruits recommended
for general cultivation, commencing with the pears. This list,
as finally adopted, we have already given, but for the infor-
mation of those who may not have seen it, in our last vol-
ume, we shall repeat it at the close of this article. Quite a
long and very interesting discussion arose upon the merits of
the different varieties, which we should be pleased to give
entire, did our space allow ; but with one extract, in relation
to the Buffum pear, we must refer to the proceedings for a
full report.

The Buffum pear, being one upon the list of varieties-
recommended for general cultivation, the following discussion
ensued before the vote was taken upon its adoption. We
quote this to show what we consider the true qualifications
of a pear for general cultivation, those qualifications being a
combination of good properties, without perhaps excelling in
any particular one. The report, though accurate in the
main, contains some errors, and these we have corrected so
far as regards our own remarks : —

Buffum Pear. — Col. Hodge had cultivated the Buffum
for a number of years, and though he was not prepared to
reject it, he could not rank it higher than a second rate pear.
It cracked, and the flavor was by no means superior.

Mr. Mcintosh, of Cleveland, had also cultivated it for
several years, and must say that as to the fruit, it was hardly
as good as second rate. But as a market fruit, it was of the
first quality.

VOL. XVI. NO. VII. 38

298 The Second Congress of Fruit Growers.

Mr. C. M. Hovey said that this fruit was not of the first
quality in respect to flavor, but the variety made a beautiful
appearance as an ornamental tree, and it was besides a pro-
digious bearer, the fruit hanging on the branches like strings
of onions. And if seasonably gathered and well ripened, the
Buffum pear was nearly as good as the Doyenne. If eaten
at the proper time, it was far above a second rate fruit.

Mr. Buist, of Philadelphia, remarked that it would require
all the eloquence of gentlemen, and perhaps more, to raise
this variety to the rank of a first class fruit. And he con-
sidered that what was wanted of this Congress, and what the
Congress itself desired, was information as to, and decision
upon, fruits, and fruits alone — not in respect to their beauty
as ornamental trees.

Mr. S. B. Parsons agreed with the last speaker. The
qualities of fruits as fruits^ it was the object of the Congress
to determine, as far as possible.

Mr. Hancock said that in truth the Buffum pear ranked
only as fourth rate, as the gentleman from Massachusetts,
(Mr. French,) had this morning observed. And if that gen-
tlemen now asked this Congress to recommend it for general
cultivation, for one, he, (Mr. H.,) could not do it.

Mr. French knew that the BulTum did not rule as high as
many other varieties, but still it was worth cultivating.

Mr. Downing reminded gentlemen that the Convention of
last year had determined to cast out all such classifications as
first rate, second rate ^c, and to adopt the designations of
'' good," " very good," " best" as more definite and useful.

Mr. French said that then he should call the Bufium a
good pear.

Mr. Downing observed, in continuation, that this was a
list for general cultivation, not one recommended to amateurs
alone. If a particular fruit were only good, even if that
were united with other desirable qualities, productiveness,
hardiness, &c., he should be very willing to recommend it
for general cultivation.

Dr. Monson thought this a very desirable pear to have
when others were scarce. It was a good bearer and the tree

The Second Co7igress of Fruit Growers. 299

was a beautiful one. Why not liave such a variety on the
list?

Mr. Hovey said the BufFum was a very good pear, though
not of the best description. But suppose that a person could
have but two trees, though there were many better varieties
which he would like to cultivate, would he not, on the whole,
prefer a tree from which he could obtain four or six bushels
of good pears, to one from which he could get only one and
a half or two bushels ? And having but two trees, would he
not desire that one of them at least should be a large bearer ?
Of what use to a grower of fruit for the market, would be
a variety of greater excellence in itself, but of vastly greater
inferiority in point of bearing ? And even gentlemen, who
could afford to suit their fancy, did not want poor looking
specimens in their grounds, and must therefore set some
value upon the BufFum in consequence of the beauty of the
tree.

Mr. Buist said that if this pear should pass muster as being
first rate for its bearing qualities, still he could not recom-
mend it as such to his friends.

Mr. Miller, of Carlisle, Pa., said that some thought the
rating of a variety depended upon the foliage, others upon
the beauty of the tree, and others again upon the quality of
the fruit. But surely the list was large enough to combine
all these requisites.

Mr. Hancock commented upon the statement that the Buf-
fum was a good fruit for the market. But was he to go to
the market to be imposed upon ? If the fruit was good he
cared nothing for the shape of the tree or what its appearance
might be for a pleasure ground ; but if he had the finest
looking tree in the world, if the fruit was good for nothing,
he would throw it under his feet. He would not be one to
advocate a fruit of inferior quality under the excuse that he
had some trees to sell. He was a fruit raiser, but his friends
should never rise up against him charging him with having
imposed on their ignorance.

Mr. Downing wished to correct the impression which the
gentleman appeared to entertain. If any fruit was not worthy

300 The Second Co7igress of Fruit Growers.

to be borne on the list, the committee had no wish to press
its being put there.

Mr. Barry said that there were several things which entered
into the consideration of quality. Flavor was one, and a
very important one, but there were others also. And he con-
sidered it hardly proper to insinuate anything unworthy or
knavish against gentlemen who spoke of fruits, and their qual-
ities as "market fruits." Fruits were raised for the market
especially, and they must be. And everybody knew that it
was not always true, that a variety which stood highest in
point of flavor, bore the same rank on the market list. Take
the Rhode Island Greening apple for example, that fruit was
not of first rate flavor, but it was so productive, so hardy, and
so sure a crop, that we could not do without it. Just so with
many other fruits. Flavor was the first quality to be looked
at, if gentlemen chose, but there were many others besides.

Mr. Hancock did not differ from the gentleman last up.
Let each variety of fruit stand or fall on its merits. He ac-
knowledged good bearing to be a part of the merits, but he
would not make that quality a pretext for selling to the sim-
ple a fruit as being better than it really was.

Mr. Hovey could not sit silent after hearing the remarks of
the gentlemen from New Jersey, though his friend from
Rochester had put the matter right before the Congress.
Were gentlemen to be accused, because they had trees for
sale, of recommending any particular variety ? If so, there
would be an end to discussion. He repudiated any such
idea, and was surprised that the subject should have been
mentioned. For one, he believed every member who took
part in the discussion spoke from his own experience and
with a desire to impart information. In general, persons who
cultivate fruit trees did it for what ? Orchardists who raised
fruits did it for what ? Why, to sell in the market ? Some
very respectable and respected persons in the gentleman's
own neighborhood could tell him that, if he were ignorant of
it himself. But in determining the value of a fruit for this
purpose, saleableness, as well as color, flavor, hardiness, <fcc.,
must be estimated in the aggregate of its qualities, and if

The Second Congress of Fruit Growers. 301

it proved to combine a majority of such qualities, then it
should be considered as worthy of cultivation.

Mr. French said his only fear now was that this pear
would not get into the list. If he could have but one apple,
it should be the Rhode Island Greening, though that variety
was neither so handsome nor of so good flavor as many
others. And so of the Buffum pear ; it had its superiors, but
it was well worthy of cultivation, and it Avas a variety which
no fruit grower should be without.

Mr. Manning observed that even in regard to flavor the
BufFum pear was sometimes found to be nearly first rate.
Very much depended on its ripening as to this. But flavor
was not the only thing to be considered. Productiveness
was another, and not an inferior one in many cases. Gansel's
Bergamotte was not to be preferred to the Bufi"um if only a
limited number of trees could be cultivated ; for in the one
case you would have perhaps half a bushel of very delicious
fruit from each tree, and in the other two barrels of fruit,
nearly as perfect if properly ripened. He should have no
hesitation which to choose in such a state of things.

Mr. Walker was under the impression, long ago, that the
Buffum could not be near so good a fruit as he had found it to
be within the last five or six years. When ripened under a
temperature of 65° or 70°, constant day and night, it attained
a very high degree of excellence. Some of the very best
judges, not knowing the perfection to which it had latterly
been brought, on tasting it at Salem, declared they could not
tell what the pear was unless it was an excellent St. Michael.
The fruit was very much improved by early picking, and
ripening in the house.

The Buffum pear was adopted.

The discussion upon strawberries was also interesting, and
we have made room for the remarks which were made upon
the adoption of the Boston Pine, to show the premature char-
acter of the reports which have been made in regard to this
variety, particularly that of the Committee of the Cincinnati
Horticultural Society, which we reviewed two years ago,
(Vol. XIV, p. 228.)

302 The Second Congress of Fruit Growers,

Boston Pine Strawberry. — Mr. Hancock had had in
the course of three or four years only one crop from this
variety. It was a good fruit but a shy bearer.

Mr. Pardee had found it at New-Haven a strong and excel-
lent bearer, and the fruit of a delicious flavor. Mr. Terry
said it had succeeded admirably at Hartford, with several
gentlemen who tried it on different soils. It was esteemed
very highlj/- for its mild and agreeable flavor. It was better
than Hovey's Seedling, which grew near and was fertilized
by it.

Mr. Manice said it grew very well in hills, but not so well
in beds ; in hills it was a great bearer — better than Hovey's.

Mr. Miller said it was a ver}^ pleasant and productive fruit,
with a large, fine-appearing berry. It was fully equal to
Hovey's, and inferior perhaps to the Black Prince alone.

Mr. French had seen it very fine indeed at Hovey's garden
and elsewhere. In 1848 he tried the experiment of culti-
vating a square yard each with the Boston Pine, the Willey
and the Jenney. They were all picked by a careful hand,
and the result was — Boston Pine, \\ pints ; Willey, 1 quart,
3 gills ; Jenney, 1 quart. 1 gill. Mr. Lines said that after he
planted his out, for the first year, the bearing was small ; in
the second it improved ; and in the third it was enormous.
It was better to grow the fruit in hills.

Mr. Walker said that for the first year or two he had not
been very favorably impressed by the Boston Pine, and had
not yet substituted it for the Early Virginia. But what he
had seen of it the present year had greatly raised it in his
estimation. Grown in hills, he had seen very large crops and
fine fruit. By the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, this
season, the first and third prizes were awarded to the Boston
Pine.

Dr. Monson had cultivated Hovey's and the Methven, and
had been perfectly satisfied with them, till he became
acquainted with the Boston Pine. He had never seen so
prolific a bed as that of this variety belonging to Mr. Terry.
He at once engaged plants of him and dug in one half of his
Hovey's Seedling to make room for planting them. This

The Second Co)igress of Fruit Growei's. 303

variety was superior in bearing qualities to any that he had
seen.

Mr. Hovey remarked that he had preferred to hear what
others had to say of this strawberry, rather than to speak of
it himself. It had been exceedingly gratifying to him to
hear so many commendations of his two strawberries — the
Seedling and the Boston Pine. Gentlemen were present
from the remotest parts of the country, and they unanimously
agreed upon their excellence. The Boston Pine was raised
at the same time, and from the same lot of seed, as the
Hovey Seedling, in 1834. But after selecting the latter
variety, so many others remained of promising quality — and
the quantity of land at command being rather limited — that it
took some time to give them all, successively, a trial — and it
was not until 1844 or '45 that the Boston Pine was first
offered to the public. That was its origin.

Mr. H. said he would embrace this opportunity to say a
few words in regard to the cultivation of the Boston Pine.
One gentleman had remarked that he cultivated his vines in
hills ; another, his in beds ; others, theirs in rows — and all
had succeeded equally well. But as one gentleman had said
that he did not exactly understand what was meant by cul-
tivating in hills, he would briefly explain.

Gentlemen were probably aware that Hovey's Seedling,
the Early Virginia, and other varieties, rarely produced more
than three or four trusses of fruit to each root, and then,
when grown thickly in beds, produced very good crops.
This, however, was not the case with the Boston Pine,
generally — the constitutional tendency of the plant being to
produce ten or twelve trusses of fruit to each root. One
hundred and fifty berries had been counted on a single plant,
as the President could testify. The consequence was that
when the vines occupied all the ground, there was a defici-
ency of nourishment, and the berries did not fill up. Hence
had arisen many failures in the cultivation of this variety.
It required more room than other strawberries, and when
grown in rows, with a space of a foot or more between, and
that space well manured, the crop was one of the most abun-

304 The Second Congress of Fruit Growers.

dant of all kinds. Cultivation in hills, so termed, was where
one or more plants were set out, two or more feet apart each
way, the runners kept clipped off, and the ground tilled with
the hoe, or, when extensively grown, with the cultivator or
plough. Raised in this mode, or in rows, he was satisfied
the Boston Pine would prove, as indeed it had already done,
all that he had ever recommended it to be, and would meet
the expectations of every cultivator.

The question was then put, and the Boston Pine was
adopted.

The discussion was continued for two days upon the entire
list, recommended by the committee, and the following is
the list as finally adopted : —

FRUITS WORTHY OF GENERAL CULTIVATION.

{Added to former List.)

APPLES.

White Seek-no-further, Danvers Winter Sweet,

Fameuse, Wine Apple,

Porter, Red Astrachan,

Hubbardston Nonsuch, Vandervere,

Winesap, Bullock's Pippin,

Lady Apple, Swaar.

PEARS.

Rostiezer, Urbaniste,

Belle Lucrative, Le Cur^,

Fulton, Louise Bonne of Jersey,

Andrews, Uvedale's St. Germain, for

Buffum, baking.

GRAPES UNDER GLASS.

Black Hamburgh, White Frontignan,

Black Prince, White Muscat of Alexandria,

Black Frontignan, Chasselas of Fontainbleau.
Grizzly Frontignan,

NATIVE GRAPES — OPEN CULTURE.

Isabella, Catawba.

The Second Congress of Fruit Growers.

305

Elmge,
Early Violet,

Red Antwerp,
Yellow Antwerp,

Large Early Scarlet,
Hovey's Seedling,

Belle Magnifique.

Large Early,
Breda,

Red Dutch,
White Dutch,
White Grape,

NECTARINES.

Downton.

RASPBERRIES.

Franconia,
FastolfF.

STRAWBERRIES.

Boston Pine.

APRICOTS.

Moorpark.

CURRANTS.

May's Victoria,
Black Naples.

Houghton's Seedling,
Woodward's Whitesmith,
Crown Bob,
Red Champagne,
Early Sulphur,

GOOSEBERRIES.

Green Laurel,
Red Warrington,
Green Gage,
Green Walnut,
Ironmonger.

NEW VARIETIES WHICH GIVE PROMISE OF BEING WORTHY TO BE

ADDED TO THE LIST FOR GENERAL CULTIVATION.

Duchesse d'Orleans,
Brandywine,
Chancellor,
Doyenne d'Ete,
Beurre d'Anjou,
Manning's Elizabeth,
Brande's St. Germain,

McLaughlin,
Rivers's Favorite,

VOL. XVI. NO. VII.

PEARS.

Pratt,

Ott,

Striped Madeleine,

Ananas d'Ete,

Jalousie de Fontenay Vendee,

Van Assene,

Doyenne Boussock.

PLUMS.

St. Martin's Quetsche.
39

306 How to Prune the Filbert.

STRAWBERRIES.

Burr's New Pine, Jenney's Seedling.

RASPBERRY.

Knevett's Giant,

GRAPE NATIVE.

Diana.

Reports accompany the " Proceedings" from the fol-
lowing States : — Pennsylvania ; New York ; Massachusetts ;
Vermont ; Connecticut ; Maine ; Ohio ; Missouri ; Iowa ;
Kentucky ; District of Columbia ; Virginia ; Georgia.

We shall take the opportunity to make some extracts from
these reports, under our Pomological Gossip and Domestic
Notices.

The Congress, after passing the usual vote of thanks to its
•officers, adjourned to meet at Cincinnati, Ohio, next autumn.

A.RT. IV. How to Prune the Filbert. By Mr. R. Thompson,
Superintendent of the Orchard and Kitchen Garden De-
partment, of the London Horticultural Society. From
Gardeners^ Chronicle.

It is somewhat surprising that a nut so very generally es-
teemed and at the same time so easily raised, should not
have received more attention, and been more extensively in-
troduced into our gardens. In England, great quantities of
land are devoted to the growth of the filbert, and in the
county of Kent, alone, hundreds of acres are planted with
the trees, the average yield of which is upwards of a thou-
sand pounds of nuts per acre. They are brought to the
principal markets in great quantities, and while young, be-
fore their shell becomes hardened, are considered an indis-
pensable addition to the dessert.

There are several kinds of the filbert, which are im-
proved varieties of the common, or wild hazel of Europe.
But the sorts now generally most esteemed and cultivated

How to Prune the Filbert. 307

originated in English gardens. These are known as the
Cosford, Frizzled and White filberts. They are abundant
bearers and fine-flavored kinds. We have had them in fruit
for four or five years, and although we have bestowed but
little pains upon their pruning, yet we have had a fair crop
of nuts from a few trees.

But to raise the filbert to advantage and profit it is requi-
site that the pruning of the trees should be fully understood ;
without this, the produce would be small. It is from this
circumstance that the Kent growers are so successful in rais-
ing the filbert. Rogers, an old practical gardener and author
of an excellent little treatise called the Fruit Cultivator^ in
speaking of the cultivation of the filbert, makes the follow-
ing very just remarks, which may be applied to other
operations in gardening as well as that to which the author
alludes : —

" It may be a matter of wonder, but so it happens, that
the generality of gardeners know little, or nothing, about
pruning the filbert trees. The art has never been studied
either by masters or men, and it is remarkable that this
branch of the pruner's art should have been brought to per-
fection by the untaught, unlettered Kentish peasant — with-
out books — without master, save experience — without mis-
tress, save nature herself! It is curious too, that this art
has been engrossed by the laborers in the central part of the
country, and without its being followed in other parts of the
kingdom. The knowledge seems to have descended from
father to son, for generations, and a very useful portion of
rustic knowledge it is. Here the author begs to observe,
how much more valuable is the knowledge which has been
gained by the mere dint of practical experience, compared
with that emanating from theoretical writers, who bury what
they really know of practical matters, beneath a load of hard
names and learned quotations, which only serve to puzzle
rather than inform the reader. So much of this kind of
writing is now extant, that, though read over and over again,
and even committed to memory, the reader would not be so
wise during his whole life (especially as respects the pruning

308 How to Pi^une the Filbert.

of the filbert) as a visit to Maidstone Avould make him in an
hour,"

From this it will be seen that the main thing in the suc-
cessful culture of the filbert is the pruning of the trees ; and
though, as Mr. Rogers says, one hour's inspection of the trees
properly pruned, will convey more information than could
be learned in a life-time by reading, still, with the illustration
which accompanies Mr. Thompson's article, we think the
cultivator may begin in the right track, and with a little prac-
tice manage his trees so as to produce an abundance of nuts.
We only hope our remarks, in connection with those of Mr.
Thompson, will not only induce gentlemen who possess a
good garden, to introduce a few filbert trees, but may be the
means of bringing this neglected fruit into more extensive
cultivation : —

PRUNING. THE FILBERT TREE.

The filbert tree is one of those which does not contain all
the parts necessary for the production of fruit in the same
bud. Some buds develop only the male parts, and others
only the female ; the former are comprised in those pendent
yellow catkins, easily recognized in the end of winter and
early spring. The female portions are less conspicuous ; all
that appears of them are some slender, deep-crimson stigmas,
protruding beyond the apex of the buds, as represented at
b b. On these, fertilizing particles from the catkins either
fall naturally, or are otherwise brought in contact with them
whilst being blown about by the winds ; and fruitfulness is
the result. If, on the contrary, there are no catkins, or if
they are prematurely cut away in pruning, there can be no
fruit. Pruning should not be commenced till after the ap-
pearance of the crimson stigmas at the apex of such buds as
b b, and after the fall expansion of the catkins. When the
latter have fulfilled their purpose, they fall off. After fertili-
zation, the buds b b elongate into a twig much the same as
other buds ; but towards midsummer the formation of the
cluster can be seen. The cluster is always terminal. When
catkins are wanting on the cultivated trees, those of the

How to Prune the Filbert.

309

common hazel, when they are fully expanded, may be hung
on the branches.

The county of Kent
has been long celebrated
for the production of large
crops of filberts. That
mode of pruning must be
good which has been suc-
cessfully practised for gen-
erations ; and we there-
fore cannot do better than
give the method pursued
by the Maidstone cultiva-
tors, as it is minutely de-
tailed by the Rev. Wm.
Williamson in the 4th
volume of the first series
of the Transactions of
the Horticultural Society.
The author of the com-
munication treats the cul-
tivation of the filbert un-
der the following divis-
ions : Soil, Raisi7ig the
Plants, Manure and
Pruning ; which last, he
adds, forms the great dis-
tinction between the cul-
tivation in Kent and in
other counties.

"The suckers are taken
Fig. 14. Tiie Filbert Tree. ^ro^ the parent plant gen-

aaa, wood buds ; b b, blossom buds. erally in the autumn, and
planted in nursery beds (being first shortened to 10 or 12
inches,) where they remain three or four years. They are
slightly pruned every year, in order to form strong lateral
shoots, the number of which varies from four to six. Bui

310 How to Prune the Filbert.

though it is the usual practice to plant the suckers in nur-
sery beds, I would advise every one to plant them where
they are to remain, whether they are intended for a gar-
den or a larger plantation ; and after being suffered to grow
without restraint for three or four years, to cut them down
within a few inches of the ground. From the remaining
part if the trees are well rooted in the soil, five or six strong
shoots will be produced. Whichever method is practised,
the subsequent treatment of the trees will be exactly the
same.

" In the second year after cutting down, these shoots are
shortened ; generally one third is taken off. If very weak, I
would advise that the trees be quite cut down a second time,
as in the previous spring ; but it would be much better not to
cut them down till the trees give evident tokens of their
being able to produce shoots of sufficient strength. When
they are thus shortened that they may appear regular, let a
small hoop be placed within the branches, to which the shoots
are to be fastened at equal distances. By this practice two
considerable advantages will be gained — the trees will grow
more regular, and the middle will be kept hollow, so as to
admit the influence of the sun and air.

"In the third year a shoot will spring from each bud;
these must be suffered to grow till the following autumn or
fourth year, when they are to be cut off nearly close to the
original stem, and the leading shoot of the last year short-
ened two-thirds.

"In the fifth year several small shoots will arise from the
bases of the side branches which were cut off the preceding
year ; these are produced from small buds, and would not
have been emitted had not the branch on which they are sit-
uated been shortened, the whole nourishment being carried
to the upper part of the branch. It is from these shoots that
fruit is to be expected. These productive shoots will in a
few years become very numerous, and many of them must
be taken off, particularly the strongest, in order to encourage
the production of the smaller ones ; for those of the former
year become so exhausted that they generally decay ; but

How to Prune the Filbert. 311

whether decayed or not they are always cut out by the pruner.
and a fresh supply must therefore be provided to produce the
fruit in the succeeding year. The leading shoot is every
year to be shortened two-thirds, or more should the tree be
weak, and the whole height of the branches must not ex-
ceed six feet.

" The method of pruning above detailed might, in a few
words, be called a method of spurring, by which bearing
shoots are produced, which otherwise would have had no ex-
istence. Old trees are easily induced to bear in this manner,
by selecting a sufficient number of the main branches, and
then cutting the side shoots off nearly close, excepting any
should be so situated as not to interfere with the others, and
there should be no main branch directed to that particular
part. It will, however, be two or three years before the full
effect will be produced. By the above method of pruning,
30 cwt. per acre have been grown in particular grounds and
in particular years, yet 20 cwt. is considered a large crop,
and rather more than half that quantity may be called a
more usual one ; and even then the crop totally fails three
years out of five ; so that the annual average quantity can-
not be reckoned at more than 5 cwt. per acre.

" When I reflected upon the reason of failure happening
so often as three years out of five, it occurred to me that
possibly it might arise from the excessive productiveness of
the other two. In order to ensure fruit every year, I have
usually left a large proportion of those shoots which, from
their strength, I suspected would not be so productive of
blossom-buds as the shorter ones ; leaving them more in a
state of nature than is usually done ; not pruning them so
closely as to weaken the trees by excessive bearing, nor
leaving them so entirely to their natural growth as to cause
their annual productiveness to be destroyed by a superfluity
of wood. These shoots, in the spring of the year, I have
usually shortened to a blossom-bud."

That style of pruning which is found the best for the cur-
rant, is also considered, in general, the best for the filbert.
The Maidstone growers prefer plants raised from layers, and

312 How to Prune the Filbert.

which have been bedded out in the nursery for two or three
years. Each plant should have one strong upright shoot,
which after the final planting should be cut back to eighteen
inches ; this will admit of one foot of clear stem, above
which height shoots should be encouraged, to form the head.
Six branches will be a sufficient number. Their leaders
should be annually shortened, in order to make them throw
out laterals. They should be trained in form of a goblet, or
somewhat approaching thereto. This is merely a mechani-
cal operation.

With regard to the management of the laterals, no precise
rule can be laid down. It must be varied according to the
nature of the soil, and the greater or less humidity of the
climate. If the soil is rich and moist, strong shoots, too
strong for any but wood-buds being formed on them, will be
produced. Instead of the fruitful laterals produced on the
Kentish soil, rod-like walking canes will be produced when
the plants are grown in many other parts of the kingdom.
They must be cut back, otherwise they would form strong
cross branches ; but then we must consider that each of
these rods, with their ample foliage, has contributed to the
formation of roots during the summer ; that these roots will
be adequate to supply nourishment in the following season
to all the shoots made in the present season ; but when the
shoots are necessarily reduced, say more than one half, either
by shortening or cutting out entirely, then the remaining
portion has more than double the quantity of roots necessary
for its nourishment ; and it will, in consequence, be stimu-
lated to grow with excessive luxuriance. There are two
ways by which the excessive luxuriance may be prevented
by pruning, namely, by summer pruning and by root pruning.

As the roots are formed by the action of the leaves, it is
evident that the fewer leaves there are on a plant during the
summer of 1850 the less will be the quantity of roots formed
in that period ; and just so much diminished will be the con-
tributors to luxuriance for the summer of 1851. By winter
pruning we reduce the subjects to be fed, but not the feed-
ers ; but by summer pruning we proportionately reduce both,

Pomological Gossip. 313

and that to any extent that may be found necessary. There-
fore, when the laterals are likely to prove too luxuriant,
check them in the early part of the season ; when they have
made 6 or 8 inches in length, pinch off their tops ; and
when they push a second time, pinch them back to the first
bud formed by the secondary shoot. In the following spring
cut them back to a female blossom bud, if any ; but other-
wise, spur them nearly close to the branch. By the annual
repetition of such proceeding, fruit will ultimately be ob-
tained ; and the fruiting will be a check to over-luxuriance.
If root-pruning be resorted to, it should be performed in the
autumn.

Suckers should be carefully removed ; or rather they
should be eradicated as soon as they make their appearance,
if this can be done without injuring the roots ; otherwise
autumn or beginning of winter is the best time for laying
bare the roots for some distance round the stem of the tree,
and thoroughly clearing off all vestiges of suckers.

Art. V. Pomological Gossip.

The Stanwick Nectarine. In our last number we an-
nounced that the stock of this new nectarine was about to
be offered at public auction, for the benefit of the Benevo-
lent Institution for the Relief of Infirm Gardeners. We
notice by the latest journals that the amount realized from
the sale of twenty-four trees, Avas £164 17s., (upwards of
$800.) The following are the names of the purchasers,,
which we give, that those of our nurserymen, or amateurs,
who may be ordering plants, may know who have the genu-
ine kinds : —
Lot 1.— £7 17s. 6d.— Mr. Low, Clapton.

2.-10 10 0 — " "

3.— 8 8 0 —Messrs. Whitley & Osborne, Fulham.

4. — 6 16 6 — Messrs. Henderson, Pine-apple place.

5.— 10 10 0 —Messrs. Whitley «fc Osborne, Fulham.

VOL. XVI. NO. VII. 40

314 Pomological Gossip.

. — Messrs. Hurst &- M'Mullen, Leaden-
hall street.
— Messrs. Veitch, Exeter.
— Mr. Turner, Slough.
— J. H. Barchard, Esq., Putney Heath.

u u

— Mr. Ingram, Gardener to Her Maj-
esty, at Frogmore.

— Messrs. Youell, Great Yarmouth.

— Mr. Gaines, Battersea.

—The Earl of Derby.

— R. Hanbury, Esq.

— Messrs. I^ee, Hammersmith.

— S. Rucker, Esq., Wandsworth.

— Messrs.Lucombe, Pince & Co., Exeter.

— The Earl of Harrington, Elvaston
Castle.

— Mr. Denton.

— Messrs. Henderson, Pine-apple place.

— Mr. Gaines, Battersea.

— Mr. Glendinning, Turnham Green.

— Messrs, Knight «fc Perry, King's road,
Chelsea.

£164 17 0 Hfiw q£?

The Chronicle also remarks, " We give this liSt for two
reasons ; firstly, that the friends of the charity may see how
effectually the operation is likely to benefit the funds ; and
secondly, that the public may know who the nurserymen are
that can hereafter supply the variety. A further and larger
public sale will take place early in next autumn, on behalf of
the charity, on which occasion Mr. Rivers expects to have
.500 young plants propagated ; and no other genuine plants
can be offered at that time. The earliest specimens which
it is probable that the trade can offer, will be maiden plants
in the end of 1851. It is desirable that this should be
known, in order that those who have come forward liberally
on the present occasion may receive all the advantage which
can arise from the transaction."

Lot. 6.— £7

17s.

6c

7.—

8

18

6

8.—

7

7

0

9.—

4

14

6

10.—

3

13

6

11.—

5

15

6

12.—

4

14

6

13.—

7

17

6

14.—

9

9

0

15.—

5

5

0

16.—

8

18

6

17.—

7

7

0

18.—

6

16

6

19.—

4

4

0

20.—

2

2

0

21.—

6

6

0

22.—

7

0

23.—

6

6

0

24.—

5

15

6

Pomological Gossip. 315

Prospects of the Fruit Crop. In our last we alluded
to the prospect of an abundant fruit crop, believing that after
such a prolific blossom, unattended with frost, that no other
casualty could possibly affect the trees. Everything prom-
ised well, until just at the period when the blossoms began
to fall ; a long and continued spell of rain, accompanied with
an easterly wind, appeared to bruise and shatter the flowers,
but did not seem to injure them ; but as soon as the petals
began to drop, and some of them did so prematurely, we ob-
served that much of the fruit had not set at all, and a great
portion of that remaining was spotted with mildew as if it
had been injured by the damp weather. Up to this time
the fruit has continued to fall to such an extent, indeed, that
in some instances, on trees which were one sheet of flowers,
not a solitary pear remains. This effect has been, we be-
lieve, produced throughout the State ; at least, our friends in
Springfield inform us the pears have suffered so there.
What the real cause is, of such a failure, we should be glad
to know. Our supposition is, that the long continued rain,
accompanied with a raw easterly wind, and a complete satu-
ration of the soil with water, from the excessive quantity of
rain which fell in April and May, prevented the trees from
making a free growth and throwing off" the superabundance
of sap which they had accumulated by the moisture of the
earth. We should be glad to hear from our correspondents
on this subject.

The Northern Sweet Apple. In our January number,
(p. 36,) we noticed this apple, which was exhibited at the
Pomological Congress last fall. Mr. Barry, in the Genesee
Farmer, pronounces it identical with the Munson Sweeting,
a well-known sweet apple, cultivated in the western part of
Massachusetts. In regard to the correctness of Mr. Barry's
opinion we have had no opportunity of knowing, but Mr.
Battey, in a recent letter to us, makes the following remarks
respecting the identity of the two sorts : —

" As to the identity of the ' Northern Sweet,' with the
' Munson Sweeting,' I think that friend Barry of the Genesee
Farmer, and his ' friends of Western Massachusetts,' are
alike in error.

316 Pomological Gossip.

" Having exchanged scions with Jesse Storrs of Marathon ;
N. Y. for the purpose of testing the matter, by fruiting both
on the same tree, I observe that they are entirely distinct
in the character of the bark and young wood, — quite as much
so as the Baldwin and Porter, [two sorts as distinct as any
other two apples. — Ed.'\ J. Storrs says that the Munson
Sweeting is a month later, — and, in his opinion, unlike in
several particulars. The question, however, is now in a fair
way to be settled, definitively — as I now have the Munson
Sweeting growing on the top of a bearing tree of the North-
ern Sweet, and he (J. Storrs) has the Northern Sweet under a
similar trial. The result will be communicated to the pub-
lic, as soon as the grafts shall have borne fruit. — Respectfully
yours, J. Battey."

The Early Purple Guigne Cherry. This valuable
early cherry has been quite overlooked among the multitude
of kinds which have been introduced into our collections.
Full as early as the May Bigarreau, larger in size, and equal
in flavor, it deserves to be very extensively cultivated, and
must claim the rank of being the best early cherry yet known.
We have long been acquainted with it through the Tj'ansac-
tions of the London Horticultural Society, where it is beau-
tifully figured, and fully described by Mr. R. Thompson ;
and we have had a tree of it in bearing in our collection,
these three years ; but owing to the destructive and gor-
mandizing robins, we have never succeeded in getting a
ripe cherry till this year, when we were astonished to find
it such a superior fruit. Two or three branches which we
" bagged up" with muslin, have been loaded with cherries,
and we are glad to have the opportunity of presenting it to
our amateur cultivators in our Fruits of America, where it
will be figured in the twelfth and closing No. of the First
volume. Another equally fine variety, and full as little
known, the true Arch Duke, will be figured in the first
number of the Second volume.

Owing to the depredations of the birds, we have hitherto
been deprived the opportunity of describing several kinds of
cherries, which, though long in cultivation, are but little

Cultivation of the Cy daman. 317

known. Disappointed so often, we have resorted to the
"bagging up" system, (noticed at page 166,) and by this
means we shall now be enabled to give accurate descrip-
tions of all the fine sorts extant, having trees now in fruit
of more than sixty sorts.

Art. VI. Cultivation of the Cyclaman. By Vanessa.

The germs cyclaman is a delightful little family of plants,
requiring little trouble in cultivation, and producing flowers
of various colors every month in the year. Some of them
are very fragrant, and although, as far as outward appearance
is concerned, they may present little claim for admiration
when compared with many of their more gaudy compeers,
and, like many other objects of real worth and usefulness,
might be passed unnoticed, did not their presence become
impressed upon our senses by their pleasing and agreeable
odor, yet, they are among the prettiest ornaments of the gar-
den. For the amateur who wishes to make the most of the
little room he may have, a few of the different varieties of
cyclaman will give great satisfaction, and will afford interest
which can only be duly appreciated by those who give them
the little attention they require.

They all seed freely, and this is perhaps the best way of
increasing a stock. The tubers are frequently divided for
this purpose, but it is not a good or safe practice, for, even if
such pieces live, they take a long time to recover from the
effects of the wound, and perhaps die altogether after two or
three years' trouble.

The seeds should be sown as soon as ripe ; if kept any
length of time, few of them will vegetate. The soil in which
they are sown should be well drained, of a light, porous tex-
ture ; a mixture of peaty soil and leaf mould is very suitable.
The early flowering of the yoimg tubers depends a great deed
upon the nature of the soil in which they are grown. If
strong, retentive soil be used, they will not flower until the
fourth or fifth year ; whereas, in a light soil, they will gener-

318 Cultivation of the Cy daman.

ally flower the second year, and sometimes sooner. Seeds of
the C. persicum, sown in June, have flowered the following
March.

They will vegetate freely in a close frame if in spring or
summer, and those sown in autumn should be placed in the
greenhouse, watered sparingly until spring, increasing the
supply as the season advances ; about the month of June fol-
lowing, the latter will be strong enough for transplanting.
Those sown in summer will be better to remain undisturbed
until the following spring. The strongest may be potted
singly into small pots ; the smaller, transplanted into pots or
boxes two or three inches apart, according to the size of the
tubers. They require to be kept in a close atmosphere until
they recover the eff"ect of removal ; afterwards give abun-
dance of air.

The general treatment of old tubers is very simple. As
already mentioned they seem to grow best in light soil. A
mixture of equal parts of light turfy loam and peat earth, or
leaf mould, will grow and flower all the varieties in perfection.
The pots should always be at least twice the size of the
diameter of the tuber, thoroughly clean and well drained.
The tubers should never be entirely covered with the soil ;
one third at least should be left exposed : this keeps the roots
near the surface, and prevents the tubers from rotting, a very
probable circumstance at some seasons when they are deep
potted. Before putting them into fresh pots, shake away all
the old soil, and keep them in a warm moist atmosphere until
they are .well started into growth.

Always water sparingly when they are starting to grow,
increasing the supply as they approach to a flowering state ;
diminish gradually as the leaves decay, and finally give them
a season of rest by keeping them nearly dry. Some culti-
vators withhold water entirely, others shake them out of the
soil as soon as the leaves decay. The latter method is not
commendable, and the former only with those sorts that rest
in winter. If the summer resting sorts do not get the soil
moistened occasionally about their roots, they will be almost
sure to get over-dried before being potted, and be of little
value the following season, if not entirely destroyed.

General Notices. 319

Cyclaman Pe'usicum, and its varieties, have flowers of
various colors from red to white, in bloom from January to
May ; some of the varieties of this are highly odoriferous.

C. Repa'ndum. — Flowers red. April, May.

C. Ve'rnum. — Flowers reddish purple, produced from
November to January.

0. Heder;efoYium. — Pink flowers, fragrant, in bloom
from March to May.

C. Cou^M. — Flowers light red. December, March.

C Neapolita^num. — Flowers rose color. July, September.

C. EuROPE^jM. — Flowers light red. July, October.

It will be seen that while the two last mentioned sorts are
in flower, the others will be in a state of rest, but such sorts
as vernum and coum can be had to flower in October by
potting the roots about the end of July ; they must not, how-
ever, either be excited too rapidly, or watered too freely, or
the leaves will be too tender to stand the damp of the winter
months.

C. persicum is a native of Cyprus, in Persia, and is not so
hardy as some of the others ; it must at all times be carefully
watered, more especially during winter, and before coming
into flower, as it is very liable to decay.

Baltimore, May 27th, 1850.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

' ' Art. I. General JVotices.

Roses. — Now that we have got through a severe and fluctuating winter,
I beg to inform you, (as I intimated in a fonner communication which ap-
peared in vol. I, No. 25, of your valuable journal,) how our roses have weath-
ered the winter. This garden, as you are already aware, is situated about 3
miles north of the Frith of Forth, and is 352 feet above the level of the sea.
The natural surface soil of the garden consists of a strong, deep, adhesive
loam, rather approaching to clay ; the subsoil brown, thin, and crop coal,
highly impregnated with iron ore. Of late years the whole garden has been
rendered sufficiently dry by means of thorough drainage, and deep ridge
trenching, and tlie borders and clumps appropriated for the cultivation of
roses, were highly manured and limed previous to their being planted. The
collection of roses at this place, is now both extensive and well selected,
and are planted in groups according to the classification given by Mr. Paul,

320 General Notices.

in the " Rose Garden," a work which is most useful and interesting', and of
great advantage in assisting the private rose-grower in selecting and arrang-
ing the various varieties of this heautiful and interesting family, the " Queen
of Flowers." All the different varieties, whether as standards or dwarfs,
are with us perfectly hardy, (the Chinese, Teas, and a few of the Bourhons,
excepted,) and require no protection whatever, further than a good dressing
of rotted muck over their roots before the approach of frost, ivhich, on the
return of favorable weather in spring, is either raked off, or dug into the
ground. For these varieties we prefer pruning pretty early in winter, as
the plants are then less liable to be tossed about, and shaken with the
winds, which, in this locality, are very prevailing during that season.

Those borders and clumps that contain the more tender varieties are, in
the autumn, covered over with a layer of half-rotted leaves, about 6 inches
thick, and on the approach of frost, or hard cutting winds, we stick in short,
stiff, spruce branches all round the sides of the borders or clumps, and in
amongst the plants, which remain all the winter — excepting that we remove
them at intervals, for a day, during favorable weather, in order to refresh
the plants, and to dry them of the mould and damps, which, under such cir-
cumstances, the plants are particularly liable to, and if not removed by the
above means, proves very detrimental. In spring these branches are re-
moved by degrees, as the state of the weather may warrant us in doing so.
The surface covering is also removed by degrees, while on some sorts it
remains all the sumimer, to serve as a mulching against drought: for these
varieties we adopt pruning in spring, but not until vegetation has fairly com-
menced in the plant. By these simple means, we have for the last two win-
ters, been able to produce nearly 300 plants of what are termed " Tender
Roses," while the loss has been very trifling ; this season we have only lost
two plants, Narcissus, a tea-scented variety, and Vicomte de Cussy, a Bour-
bon. Being of opinion that very many of those truly exquisite roses are
better calculated for filling small figures in the flower garden, than many
other things which are at the present time used for that purpose, we, last
autumn, propagated extensively from such varieties as Mrs. Bosanquet,
Madame Guerin, Clare, Belle Allemande, Bride of Abydos, Caroline, Comte
de Paris, Devonensis, Madame Roussell, Niphetos, Reine de Belgic, Souve-
nir de la Malmaison, and many others, of which I have now fine strong
plants, which I intend planting out, along with verbenas, and other things of
a like nature. Should the result be satisfactory, 1 shall communicate it to
you in due course. — [Jour, of Hort., 1850, p. 314.)

Cultivation of the Strawberry for Forcing. — " The great secret
with pot plants," that is, those intended for forcing, " is to get them strong
and well rooted before winter. Where only a small number is grown, the
following is undoubtedly tlie best plan of proceeding : — Take pots 8 inches
deep, place an oyster shell at the bottom of each, and on this put a good
handful of soot; then fill up the pots with a compost consisting of half
strong loam and half light rich mould. The mixture ought to be moderately
dry, for if wet mould be put into the pots, it is very often the cause why
plants do not thrive. Carry the pots to the strawberry runners, place one in

General Notices. 321

the centre of each pot, and have a basket of small stones at hand, so that
one may be laid on each runner, just behind the plant, in order to keep it
steady, until it has taken root." When large numbers are required, Mr. C.
advises to prepare the pots as above, and then to plunge them to tlae rim in
a piece of vacant ground ; " then, on the first dull day, I cut off the runners,
merely removing tlie strings, and by no means cutting the roots or the tops,
for both tliose operations are injurious to the young plants." Mr. C, on
commencing forcing, begins with a very low temperature, increasing it at
the rate of about 3° weekly. " When plenty of air is given at all times,"
he says, " strawberries will set in a heat of 70°, while, if kept witliout or
under such a temperature, many flowers will be more or less blind, and
what fruit does ripen will be badly formed." Mr. Cuthill's mode of forcing,
without using pots, is by taking tlio runners off as soon as they are well
rooted, planting them in a bed of well prepared soil, supplying them liber-
ally with water during autumn. In February, " they are taken up with
good bulbs, and planted 8 or 10 inches apart, each way, in a frame or pit.
They are tlien brought on gradually, and, strange to say, afler they have
set, tliey thrive well with a bottom heat, fit for the cucumber. " After the crop
is gathered, the plants are either planted out at once, or kept in the pots " un-
til the ground becomes vacant for the next year's crop, and for the runners for
the present year's potting." One plant only is put in a pot, and runners from
pot plants bear a week earlier than those of plants that have never been in pots.
The British Queen is treated as follows : — " Plant tlie runners out in beds,
4 inches apart each way, and in tlie spring cut off all the blossoms. Take
tiiem up in August, and remove a few of the upper leaves in order to induce
the plants to form top roots. The winter treatment is of great consequence.
Never give a drop of water from November, and from being kept quite dry,
nearly all the large leaves die off. During this time, the plants may be kept
under glass in pits, or stacked up on their sides against a wall out of doors."
For strawberries out of doors, Mr. C. recommends trenching the ground
well, and planting the runners a foot apart each way. By tliis means a
good crop -^rill be secured the first year, and after this has been gatliered,
every second row should be cut away with the spade, leavmg the others for
the second year ; after this, they should be destroyed as soon as tliey have
produced enough of runners for a new plantation. — [Id., 1850, p. 284.)

Culture of the Camellia. — In compliance with your request, I now
send you a few remarks on the culture of my camellias and rhododendrons,
which you considered somewhat remarkable for their size and healthy ap-
pearance. In preparing the mould for the camellias, I direct the one-half to
be a rich yellow loam, a third of sandy peat earth, with a mixture of river
sand, about a tenth part, and the rest of vegetable eartli, consisting of rotten
leaves. These are all well mixed together. Next tlie drainage of the pots
or tubs is particularly attended to. If a pot is well drainod, the earth will
never stagnate, nor the roots of the plants perish whatever quantity of water
may be given. The utmost attention should be paid to the watering. Most
gardeners are accustomed to a certain routine of watering, and at certain
hours ; and this they deem sufficient, without ever considering the tempera-

VOL. XVI. NO. VII. 41

322

General Notices.

ture, or the effect of the sun's heat in causing evaporation. I give my large
camellias generally double the quantity of water that gardeners are disposed
to allow. But, I believe their healtliy appearance depends very much upon
the liquid manure, and water from the cess-pool, diluted about half and half
with rain water ; give them, perhaps, once in the fortnight, and at this sea-
son, wlicn they are in a state of vigorous youth, once a week. The same
treatment is applied to rhododendrons. The mould for tliem should be one-
half sandy part, one-third loam, and the rest of rotten leaves, with some river
sand. I think it is of great advantage, though rather offensive to the eye,
to spread over the surface of the earth in the pot or tub, cakes of half-rotten
leaves. These tend to keep the surface moist, and also afford excellent
nourishment to the roots. I believe one half of the plants that perish is
owing to a neglect of proper draining and inattention to watering when the
plants require moisture. This is piirticularly tlie case with tlie tribe of
Ericee and also of camellias. I never lilie to see a plant hanging its ears,
and telling a careless gardener that he is neglecting to give it its necessary
nourishment. If the roots are allowed to remain too long in a dry state,
they will infallibly perish. I do not recollect if you observed some fine
specimens of the Pinus Cembra. I have two or tliree, about 15 feet high,
and a noble plant of the Pinus Pinaster. — [Id., 1850, p. 283.)

List of Grasses and their Quantities,

FOR

FINE Lawns

Light Soils.

Medium Soils.

Heavy Soils.

■Scientific Names.

Willi

With-

With

With-

With With-

a

out a

a

out a

a out a

Crop.

Crop.

Crop.

Crop.

Crop, j Crop.

lb.

lb.

lb.

lb.

lb.

lb.

Avena flavescens, ....

1

1

.

Cynosurus cristatus, .

5

5

6

(J

7

7

Festuca duriuscula, .

3

3

3

3

4

4

" tenuifolia,

2

2

2

2

1 1

Lolium perenne tenue,

18

20

18

20

18 I 20

Poa nemoralis, .

H

U

li

H

U i 2

" sempervirens.

U

li

U

li

n 2

" trivilias.

H

H

H

H

u-

2

Trifolium repens,

6

7

6

7

6

7

" minus.

2

2

2

2

1

1

401

44d

4U

45i

42^

46

In cases where prunary expense is deemed secondary to ultimate effects,
2 lbs. of tlie evergreen wood meadow-grass may be added to each of the
above columns ; and where the ground is shaded by trees, both Poa neimr-
alis and tliat variety should be substituted for similar quantities of the two
Ftscues, sucli quantities being dependent on the extent and depth of tlie
shade.

In walks, bowlmg-greens, &c., which are wished to be kept as dry as
possible, especially towards the end of the season, Trifolium repens should
be sparingly introduced ; and when it is intended to mow the grass by ma-

General Notices. 323

chine, instead of the common scythe, greater proportions of tlie hard and
fine leaved Fescues may be sown. — [Id., 1850, p. 283.)

The Stanwick Nectarine. — In November, 1848, I had some young
peaches potted, which had been raised from seed the preceding summer ;
intending to try an experiment in grafting peaches, (it may be mentioned
that they are invariably budded,) the Stanwick nectarine happened to run
to mind, and I thought my peach stocks might possibly be turned to good
account, by grafting the shoots of tliat rather than of peaches. I tlierefore
wrote to the gardener at Stanwick, to send me the prunings of tlie tree in
lieu of, as usual, consigning them to the rubbish heap. The shoots were
received in December, and immediately grafted on my peach stocks in pots ;
nearly 200 were, I think, grafted, placed in a cool house, secure from frost,
and towards tlie end of January removed to gentle bottom heat, over a tank ;
they seemed at one time as if every graft would grow. But, after making a
shoot nearly an inch in lengtli, they gradually died off", so tliat in the end
only 25 were left. Twenty-four of these were sold on Wednesday last, and
realized such prices as were never yet heard of for small trees of a nectar-
ine. What a solid benefit has thus resulted from a few apparently worthless
shoots, and what a lesson to us gardeners never to despair, but to " fay and
trust."— (Gari. Chron., 1850, p. 310.)

Culture of the Chrysanthemum. — It has been acknowledged by all
who have witnessed the chrysanthemum exhibition of the Norfolk and Nor-
wich Horticultural Society, that in no county in England is this beautiful
autumnal flower exhibited in a higher state of perfection than in Norfolk,
and having received numerous letters of inquiry respecting the mode of cul-
tivation pursued, we have taken advantage of your columns in giving pub-
licity to the same. We do not wish it to be understood that every exhibitor
pursues this precise method of treatment, but it is such as we ourselves
adopt, and we venture to say, that if carried out, it will ensure dwarf plants
from 1^ to 2 feet high, covered with rich dark-green foliage, and carrying
blooms from 5 to 7 inches in diameter. In tlie last week in May we select
the tops of the strongest shoots for cuttings, putting four or five round the
edge of a 3-inch pot, and placing them in a gentle warmth ; when rooted
they are potted singly in the same»sized pot, and kept in a close frame for a
few days, until they have become established ; the tops may then be pinched
out, leaving five or six joints to remain for lateral shoots ; after a few days'
hardening ofi", they are tlien removed to an open situation, allowing the
plants a sufficient distance from each other to prevent their drawing, care
being observed tliat they do not suffer ftorn want of water. About the third
week in July we shift, for blooming, into 7-inch pots, using a small handful
of coarsely broken bones at the bottom. The soil we use consists of equal
parts of well-decayed (one year old) pig manure, turfy loam, and leaf moulds
adding half a barrowful of peat and half ditto of road drift to every four bar-
rows of the above. When potted, they are placed in rows, 2 feet apart, and
they require but little attention, except watering, for two months ; at the ex-
piration of this period, we commence watering twice a week, with liquid
manure, made with one bushel of fresh pig manure, (free from straw) to

324 General Notices.

about 80 gallons of v.-ater ; this will be ready for use in two or tliree days.
As soon as the plants show flower-buds, we tie each shoot to a stick, and
train them fan-shaped. Disbudding ought now to be attended to, reserving
only one, or at most two, at the top of each shoot ; but where two are left, it
is better to take out the second bud and leave the third, to prevent con-
fusion. As soon as the buds show color, tlie plants are tlien removed to the
greenhouse or conservatory, giving plenty of air, and substituting water for
liquid manure. We ought to have mentioned, that, where a profusion of
bloom is required, two or three plants may be inserted in the pots where
only one is usually grown ; this will afford an opportunity of cutting away
the weakest shoots, and reserving the strongest only. — [Id., 1850, p. 310.)

The Market Garde>-s around London. — Covent Garden, the head
market of this great metropolis, has long been celebrated for the finest fruits,
vegetables, and floAvers, in the world, being different now from the time
when the poor German gardener settled on a piece of land near the Mon-
ster public house, Chelsea, on the lands of the Westminster family. This
man bought dung where he could find it, and put it on his ground. The
landlord brought an action against him; "but," says tlie landlord, "as you
are an industrious man, I shall forgive you, if you will promise me never to
poison my land any more, by putting such filthy stuff on it^' The market
gardeners round London, from time to time, liave been stimulated by receiv-
ing large prices for their articles, from living in the vicinity of such wealth.
It being the head-quarters of the government of this mighty empire of a hun-
dred millions of people, can it be doubted that the most extravagant prices
could be obtained in Covent Garden market ? For dung the carter is al-
lowed 2s. 6d. for a single load, and for wagons os. I have known many
coachmen in the Mews at tlie west end, that were obliged to give those car-
ters 6d., 9d., and Is. to clear the manure away. These men have long
hours ; but, between wages, which are from 15s. to 20s. Aveekly, and the
buying of manure, tlieir wages sometimes reach 30s. per week. A country
person will hardly believe me when I tell him that nine cart and wagon
loads of vegetables have been brought by one grower, the celebrated
Messrs. Fitch, of Fulham, off their 100 acres of land, and all sold in Cov-
ent Garden, by Mr. Fitch, by 9 o'clock in the same morning. Those men
once sent in a four-horse wagon of scarlet Ten-weeks Stock, all pulled up
by the roots, and in full bloom ; they were all sold by 7 o'clock in the morn-
ing, and fetched 301. ; but it did not pay the expenses, and v/as discontin-
ued anotlier year.

Sixty pounds have been obtained for an acre of cabbages, and upwards of
1001. for an acre of rhubarb, and more for asparagus ; 1401. for an acre of
White Cos lettuce, 1501. for an acre of straAvberries, &c. I have myself
taken 301. for 15 rods of ground of early potatoes in tlie open ground, man-
aged as I have directed in my pamplilet ; 10s. for a cucumber, and 20s. for
a melon, 2s. an ounce for forced straAvberrics, and 25s. for forced grapes per
pound. I have also taken 6s. a pound for early strawberries, in the open
ground, upon early borders. The above prices seem high, but the expenses
are enormous. INIr. Fitch, of Fulham, has told me that his 100 acres have

General Notices. 325

some years cost him, every thing inckuled, very nearly 4C001. The above
prices cannot any longer be maintained ; an immense change has taken
place since free trade and railroads have been introduced.

The change is fearful upon the old market gardeners — they cannot under-
stand it. They little think how many fresh market gardens have sprung up
in all directions, and along tlie lines of raihvays — land at 30s. an acre, in-
stead of 101., labor low, railway carriage cheap, and every thing else in pro-
portion. And again, all those families that used to consume the London
grown article, now have tlieir own garden produce sent by railway. They
little think, also, that railways and steamboats are continually emptying Lon-
don on the Sundays, and all other times, by the tens of thousands, to eat the
fruits and vegetables of country gardens. That was not the case a few years
back. However hard it may be for those near London who are high rented
and most severely taxed, yet it is a great and decided change for the gen-
eral benefit of mankind. Railroads have given one great advantage in the
early spring to the London growers. Having the climate in their favor, tlaey
send a great deal of their vegetables northwards — as early potatoes, peas,
French beans, cauliflowers, rhubarb, melons, cucumbers, and other finer
sorts of fruits and vegetables. The foreign articles do not hurt our markets
in the vegetable line, because being grown in a wanner climate, they come
in long before we do, and by the time our early potatoes, cauliflowers, peas,
French beans, &c., are in, the foreigner's early crop is over, or at least it
would not pay them to contend against us, unless in cucumbers, and they
are bad. As for Dutch melons, no one of refined taste will eat them. The
foreign gi'owers have hurt oar fruit trade to an immense degree — such as
apples, pears, plums, cherries, apricots, &c. As for Dutch grapes, they
look beautiful, but are tough, and three seasons out of four tasteless. The
middle classes in and round London, cannot afford themselves strawberries
more than a few times, and that only when a great crop is in full bearing.
When a pottle is sold by the cultivator at Gd., the weight of which is tliree-
quarters of a pound, the grower gets only 3d., and after paying \A. for the
pottle, and 101. an acre, with all other expenses, the strawberry grower is
but poorly paid. Much more could be said about the market gardening of
London, but tb.e conclusion Ave must come to is, that it consists in continu-
ally dunging, trenching, digging, sowing, hoeing, planting, taking the pro-
duce to market, bringing home money and dung, paying for labor, taxes,
and breakage. I shall not disregard skill altogether, but dung is the very
fountain-head — it is the gold in a half-formed state ; and from tlie hnmense
profits returned, it stimulates to the use of still more manure, till at last the
ground is almost a hot-bed. The crops are no sooner planted than they find
their food at once, and their growth is rapid and fine. This will explain
why a London gardener can get up acres of turnips where farmers fail.
Rotation, no doubt, is good in all crops where the land is poor, but as I have
grown potatoes tliese ten years upon tlie same ground, and every year the
crop increases, I, for one, care little about rotation.

The market gardeners of London could bring tlie early produce m much

326 General Notices.

sooner by forming beds, the perpendicular part facing the north, the bed
sloping to the south, as I have practised myself, years ago, in a stiff soil?
and light, too ; and with the protection of glass over these beds, as recom-
mended in the Gardeners' Chronicle, for peaches, apricots, and nectarines,
the}^ might almost bid defiance to the foreign grower. With the assistance
of glass and the slopes together, they would certainly be equal to the gar-
dens round Paris. Without protection of glass we can prolong fruits and
vegetables out-of-doors, Avithout any loss, but what is most wanted is early
fruits and vegetables at a cheap rate, which can only be effected by some
cheap process such as has been recommended above. I am about to publish
a pamphlet, on 12 of the leading and most useful plants and vegetables. I
have proposed an entirely new plan of growing asparagus and seakale, and
if carried out properly, the million will partake of those most delicious veg-
etables which at present they never taste. — {Id., 1850, p. 356.)

Materials essential for Potting Plants. — The following materi-
als are essential to the successful cultivation of plants in pots, and should
be kept always within reach of the potting bench, in a condition fit for im-
mediate use. It is this foresight which has rendered the course easy to
many a successful aspirant ; the want of it is, and has been, the ruin of half
the plants propagated in this country. The foundation of all cultivation de-
pends upon having loam, peat, sand, and decayed manure, at all times in
proper condition. Loam, to be in condition for potting, requires to be laid
up in a heap for at least 8 or 10 months, in order that its vegetable fibre may
be in a state of decomposition. The best of loams is that procured from very
old pastures or commons. The surface should be pared off not more than 2
inches in thickness. This should be of medium texture, neither too stiff nor
too much inclined to sand. Where convenience admits of having two kinds,
a heavier and a lighter soil will be found of great advantage in pot culture,
as they will tend to accommodate plants of different habits. Peat, suited
for plants, is difficult to obtain in some localities. Wimbledon Common
affords an abundant variety for selection. In choosing it, let it always be
procured from a dry rather than wet, boggy, spongy situation ; and, if it is
covered with fern or heath, it will be necessary to stack it for some time pre-
vious to its being used, in order that the coarse roots and heathy matter may
be easily broken up. This is a very essential and important item in the
compost, as it tends to keep it open, and it also assists in promoting good
drainage. Manure in a reduced state, perfectly sweet, should also always
be kept in store for general purposes ; stable dung, kept until it is quite
rotten, is perhaps as good as any thing. If possible to prevent it, it should
never be allowed to undergo violent fermentation. For some kinds of plants,
cow-dung, three or four years old, will prove very useful. Sand of a pure
white kind, is the most desirable ; the nearer it approaches pounded silica
the better. Few localities furnish this ; and hence large quantities are con-
tinually being sent from the neighborhood of London to plant cultivators in
the country. To attempt any thing beyond mediocrity, without being pos-
sessed of the above materials, will be found to be a waste of labor ; for, al-

General Notices. 327

tliough success may occasionally be obtained in indifferent soil, it will after
all be but a mere exception, and must not be taken as a proof that plants
■will grow and thrive in any compost, however carefully attended to, unless
some attention is paid to their natural wants and habits; and, furtlier, it
should always be recollected that plants in pots are in an artificial position,
and tliat tliey require a proportionate amount of care in their cultivation. —
[Id., 1850, p. 357.)

The Deodar Cedar. — After noticing the extreme hardiness of tliis
tree, and alluding to tlie effect it will have when more generally planted,
on ornamental and landscape gardening, he proceeds :— " Witli regard
to soils, it is an astonishing tree ; almost any kind seems eligible. I
have found it to thrive equally well on tenaceous loams, and on light sandy
soils, or on any of those with a mixture of peat, leaf soil, or on any other
vegetable matter. The deodar will not thrive in a swamp," but swampy
ground, or tlie margins of pools, may be planted Avith tliem, if tlie following
precaution be taken : — "A slight excavaUon was made Avhere tlie tree was
to be planted ; the excavation communicated witli tlie outlet or issue ; and
both excavations and outlet were filled to nearly the ground level with
bricks, stones, or other imperishable materials. On this tlie deodar was
planted, and, of course, when filled up and the turf restored, they stood on a
slight mound, which, in consequence of the amount of organic material (or
new tree leaves) has gradually sunli, and now the deodars on tliis moist site,
appear as though they had been planted below tlie ordinary level." — [Jour,
of Hod., 1850, p. 284.)

Raising Oaks from Seed. — I shall be happy to give you all tlie infor-
mation I can about tlie management of the New Forest. I confine this to
tlie system followed of raising the oak from seeds. First tlie acorns are
gatliered from tlie trees in tlie forest : they are then sown in beds, and trans-
planted at one or two years old, into the nursery lines, sixteen or eighteen
inches row from row, and six inches plant from plant in the row. In this
place they remain till some of the trees are large enough to plant out, which
is generally four or five feet high. When that is tlie" case, the largest plants
are taken up with the Scotch planting spade. It generally happens that,
though tliese plants are all of the same age,, some of them being stronger-
growing sorts, are much larger than tlie others. The strongest only are
pruned to one leader, and planted out ; the remainder are taken up, pruned,
and planted in nursery lines, tlie same distances as at first. In tliis place
they remain till they are the size required ; then tlie strongest plants are se-
lected, as before, and tlie weak ones either bedded back, as before, or tlirown
away ; tiius making many of the plants ten or twelve years old before they
are planted out, and many of them much older, and some are stunted scrubby
things after all the trouble and expense they have cost. If the enclosure is
examined the first year after planting, it will be found tliat many of the lead-
ers are dead. This 1 attribute to their selecting a leading shoot, and then
cutting all the young shoots from it. Such is the way in which the oak is
first raised in the New Forest. I shall state, in my next, how the enclosures

328 General Notices,

are planted and treated till they are thro->vn out into tlie forest again, -which,
if I am rightly informed, is not under forty years from the time they are first
enclosed.—! Gard, Jour., 1850, p. 229.)

Stocks for Conifer^.— As regards tlie most suitable stocks for Conif-
enae, it may be obsei-ved, that they are most successfully raised from seed. It
is not advisable to take young plants from a collection for this purpose, be-
cause tliey do not accommodate tliemselves to pot culture so well as plants
obtained fix>m seeds. Good healthy seeds of the following species, should
be procured for the purpose of raising plants to be kept as stocks : — Arau-
caria imbricata ; the different species of Pinus ; Thuja orientalis and occi-
dentalis ; Juniperus virginiana ; Podocarpus elongatus ; Taxus ; Cuprcssus ;
Taxodium distichum; and Dacrydium spicatum, or Podocarpus spicatas.
Such plants will be found most suitable for those engaged in the propaga-
tion of Coniferse. The seeds should be sown in February, m wooden boxes
•of convenient size, and three or four inches in deptli. The soil most suita-
ble for sowing them in is sandy peat, mixed with a fourth part of loam. The
boxes should be well drained ; and, after the seeds are sown, placed in a
temperate greenhouse. As soon as the seedlings appear, the boxes must be
removed near tlie glass, in order to give the plants plenty of light before the
first leaves appear. The young plants should be taken out and potted in
two-inch pots, using a sandy peat soil, but no loam. This treatment is pref-
erable to allowing the plants to grow large in the box and then shifting
them into pots ; as when they arc taken out of the box very young, with
only one or two roots, they are less liable to be injured, and tliey soon adapt
themselves to their new situation. When the seedlings have been potted,
they should be removed to a cool frame, and placed on a bed of ashes or
gravel, but quite near the glass. They will require to be shaded during
bright sunny weather, and care must be taken never to allow them to be-
come either too dry or too wet. The frame must be kept rather close till
the end of M&y or the beginning of June, according to the state of the
weather, when tlie lights may be taken off. As soon as very rainy and
frosty weather sets in, the liglits must be put on again, to remain on all the
winter. Very little shelter will be necessary, except during severe frosts.
Air must be admitted to the plants on all favorable occasions. In spring
they will require to be shifted into four-inch pots ; and, if properly attended
to, diey will be ready to graft upon by the autumn. — [Id., 1850, p. 230.)

Grape Rust. — The folloAving statement may tend to strengthen one of
the many suggestions already pointed out with regard to this malady to
which the grape is so liable ; and, as my case is so clearly proven to liave
proceeded from the effects of sulphur, my remarks may be the means of pro-
tecting some good vme borders from condemnation. Two seasons ago the
leaves of my early vines were attacked with red spider, in consequence of
which I was obliged to use sulphur for its destruction. I applied a little at
short intervals, which did, in some measure, keep under that pest. I ob-
served, however, that some of the berries were inclined to rust. I gave the
border the merit of this, being, as I thought, too wet. In the foUov.dng sea-

Domestic Notices. 329

son I was afraid of a second attack of my enemy, therefore I applied the
sulplmr earlier and to a greater extent than before. Not being aware of its
evil propensities on the berry, I thought if the foliage was preserved all
would be right ; but when the fruit came to be the size of peas, I found, to
my astonishment, tlieir surface covered with rust to a fearful extent. I, of
course, still continued to attribute the fault to tlie border. As I allowed no
handling in the process of tliinning, I was aware that it could not arise from
that. Seeing, however, the evil effects of sulphur on young grapes pointed
out, it struck me tliat it might be tlie cause of my complaint. I concluded
that I should put the experiment to the test next season (this one ;) I have,
accordingly, never sulphured, and the result is most satisfactory. I have a
fine crop of fruit, witliout the least symptoms of disease of any kind. T have
therefore come to the conclusion, that where sulphur is applied early, that
is to say, while the skin of the berry is young and tender, rust will unavoid-
ably follow ; and I believe that many of the cases that we are daily hearing
of, proceed from the same cause. — [Id., 1850, p. 310.)

The Tree Violet. — In the Journal of the 13th instant I observed an
article by T. C. Elliot, in which he asks if any of your correspondents " have
tried the tree violet as a bedding plant." I beg to state that I have grown it
as such for thi'ee years past with success, and I consider it one of tlie best
for tliis purpose, not only on account of its delicious odor, but also its hardi-
ness and the color and profusion of its bloom. My system of management
is as follows : — About tlie month of April I take off a quantity of cuttings
and put them in a bed at the bottom of a wall ; they are shaded for some
time during the heat of the day. These cuttings strike root rapidly, and
when rooted I plant out a portion of them into the beds they are intended tO'
flower in. Another portion are left in tlie cutting bed until tlie following
spring ; tliey are then planted out, and these flower beautifully in the autumn
months. I thus make two plantations in the season. A portion of tliem are
also potted and put into a frame when they flower during tlie winter months,
and may be moved to the greenhouses and flower-baskets in the house. 1
consider the tree violet superior to the Russian and Neapolitan for this pur-
pose. I may remark that I also find there is nothing very aborescent in
their appearance when grown in beds in the open ground. I think tlie
plants should not be allowed to stand in the same bed more than two years..
( Gard. Journal, 1850, p. 259.)

Art. II. Domestic JVbtices.

New Haven County Horticultural Society. — The twentieth annual
exhibition of this Society, will be held in New Haven, Conn., on Tuesday,
Wednesday, and Thursday, the 24th, 25th, and 2Gth of September next.
The list of premiums to be awarded at that time, has been published. Up-
wards of three hundred and fifty dollars are appropriated for the object
Tlie prizes can only be competed for by members of the Society.

VOL. XVI. NO. VII. 42

330 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

The Middlesex Horticultural Society hold four exhibitions during
tlie season, at Lowell, Mass., viz. : — the first, June 12th ; the second, July
lOtli ; the third, August 14th ; and the fourth and last, September 11th. Lib-
eral premiums are offered for flowers, firuits, and vegetables. We are glad
to see this young Society in such a flourishing condition, and hope tlie mem-
bers and amateurs throughout the county, will contribute liberally to the ex-
hibitions.

Crtptomeria Japonica. — No evergreen has been introduced tliat will
make a more beautiful tree than this, so far as I have yet seen ; and if it
prove perfectly hardy, it will be invaluable as an ornament for lawns. About
eight acres around my house, have been set apart for ornamental purposes,
and I wish to plant various evergreens in the many aspects and open and
selected spots afforded by tliis space. — Yours, P. S. Fall, Frankfort, K.,
June, 1850.

Horticulture in Northern New York. — In tlie cause of horticul-
tural improvement, this part of tlie country is far, very far, behind yours and
many others. As yet we have no horticultural society in this region ; and
individuals who would do something towards the advancement of horticul-
tural science, have, at present, no other organized medium through which to
operate on the public mind, than the county agricultural societies. Such
being the fact, I think we may be held excusable for making the best use of
this means which we can. — Yours, J. B., Keeseville, JV. Y., June, 1850.

Raising Tomatoes in Vermont. — I noticed in the Horticulturist, for
June, among the " Answers to correspondents," one to a " Vermont sub-
scriber," in which the editor says, " Your season is not quite long enough for
the okra or tomato." If he will visit us in this " JVorthern part of Vermont,"
in August, September, October, or November, we will engage to give him a
full supply of tomatoes ; and will contract to freight one of our lake craft
with them and send him, at the price of potatoes. No vegetable is here
more easily grown, or so freely given away. They are raised with no
trouble but thinning and cultivating the plants, which grow abundantly from
self-sown seeds. For early crops they are transplanted from hot-beds or
boxes placed the south side of a building. — Yours, C. Goodrich, Burlington,
rt., May, 1850.

Art. III. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, April 6, 1850. A stated meeting of the Society was held to-
day,— the President in the chair.

The President nominated a committee of five, to award the premiums,
agreeably to the resolve of tlie committee, passed at tlie meeting in March,
viz., Capt. Lovett, Eben Wight, G. R. Russell, W. R. Austin.

And, on motion, it was voted, that tlie President be added to the commit-
tee, as chairman.

On motion of C. M. Hovey, voted, tliat dollars, agreeably to the pre-

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 331

miums offered in tlie Report of the Special Committee on Gardens, be and is
hereby appropriated out of tlie treasury, for that purpose.

The president, treasurer, and secretary were appointed a committee to
consider the expediency of paying a part of tlie expense of publishing the
Report of the Pomological Convention in New York, in 1849, in connection
witli tlie Phil. Hort. Society, and to report at tlie next meeting.

Voted^ that fifty copies of the Report on the Annual Address, be placed
in tlie hands of the corresponding secretary, for distribution. Adjourned
one week, to April 13.

April 13. An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, — the
President in the chair.

The committee appointed to consider the expediency of paying a part of
the expense of publishing the Report of the Pomological Convention, re-
ported, that it was inexpedient to take any action on the subject.

David W. Barnes, Boston, and William A. Harris, Dorchester, were
elected members. Adjourned 3 weeks, to May 4.

May 4. An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, — tlie
President in the chair.

A communication was received from W. H. Simpson, which was referred
to the Committee on Publication. The thanks of the Society were voted to
Mr. Sunpson for his communication.

A communication was also received from C. W. Dabney, of Fayal, a cor-
responding member.

William Sumner, of Pomerania, S. C, was elected a corresponding mem-
ber. Adjourned one week, to May 11.

May 11. An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, — the
President in the chair.

On motion of E. Wight, it was voted, that fifty copies of the Transcript,
containing the communication of William H. Simpson, on the curculio, be
purchased for distribution among the members of the Society ; and that the
librarian be charged with the duty of the same. Adjourned 3 weeks, to
June 1.

[The above includes all the business meetings of the Society, omitted in
our last two numbers.]

June 1. An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, — Vice
President B. V, French, in the chair.

A Report of the Vegetable Committee was read and accepted.

Samuel Bigelow, Brighton, and G. W. Ellis, Boston, were elected mem-
bers. Adjourned 2 weeks, to June 15.

Exhibited. — Flowers: From J. A. Lowell, several orchids, and other
plants, among wjiich were fine specimens of Cattleya, two or three species ;
Maxillarias, Cymbidiums, Tropse'olum tricolorum, &c. From Mr. Tidd,
Seedling cereus, between C. speciosissimus and Epiphyllum Ackermanii,
veiy handsome. From J. Breck &- Co., a variety of fine tulips, and other
flowers. From Hovey &. Co., fine tulips and pansies. Flowers, in variety,
were also sent by the President, Miss Russell, P. Barnes, T. Needham,
A. Bowditch, Winship & Co., E. M. Richards, James Nugent, and others.

332 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED.

Tulips. — For the best thirty distinct varieties, to Breck & Co., $8.

For the second best, to Hovey &i Co., $6.

For the third best, to Breck &l Co., $3.
Gratuities. — To T. Owens, for orchids, ^5.

To Miss Russell, for bouquets, $1.

To Mr. Tidd, for seedling cereus, $2.

To Winship & Co., for cut flowers, $1.

To P. Barnes, for the same, $1.

To Breck & Co., for the same, ^1.

To A. Bowditch, for the same, $\.

To J. Nugent, for the same, $1.

To Miss Kenrick, for basket of flowers, $1.
Fruits. — From J. F. Allen, several varieties of grapes, — among them,.
Deccan's Superb, Wiknot's Black Hamburgh, and others ; also three boxes
of handsome Elton cherries, one of May Duke; figs, and Hunt's Early Taw-
ney nectarines, all fine. From T. Needham, Black Hamburgh and other
grapes, fine.

Vegetables. — From J. Breck & Co., Victoria rhubarb. From Jos. Lov-
ett, 2d, Victoria rhubarb, and two new seedling varieties, large and fine.
From A. D. Williams, Victoria rhubarb, and a brace of cucumbers. From
Jos. Crosby, radishes and lettuce. From F. A Davis, asparagus.

June 8. Exhibited. — Flowers : From the President of the Society, haw-
thorns, in variety. Wistaria Consequa?iff, and other flowers. From J. Breck
& Co., hawthorns, in variety. Wistaria Consequana, and otlier floAvers.
From H. Grundel, fine tree peonies, — among which were Le Soliel, New-
mam'i. Grand Due de Bade, Roccoco, rosea superba, Imperatrice Josephine,
Occellata, Ottonis, alba plena, &c. ; also, fine Calceolarias, and other flow-
ers. From J. S. Cabot, very fine tree pseonies, — among which were Hiss-
iana, Newmam'i, roseolens. Grand Due de Bade, seedlings, &c.

From Hovey & Co., lilac grandiflora, Saugeana, Valletina, dark blue,
&,c. ; purple leaved berberry, hawthorns in variety, azaleas, six varieties of
tree pseonies, and other flowers. Messrs. Wm. & J. A. Kenrick sent fine
specimens of Wistaria Consequa?ia. Other flowers, also, came from A. Bow-
ditch, E. M. Richards, J. Nugent, P. Parnes, W. E. Carter, W. Ashley, W
Kenrick, J. A. Kenrick, Winship & Co., J. Hovey, E. Burns, and others.

premiums and gratuities awarded.
Calceolarias. — For the best six varieties, to H. Grundel, $-3.

For the second best, to H. Grundel, $2.
Hawthorns. — For the best display, to Winship &. Co., $3.

For the second best, to J. A. Kenrick, .^2.
Shrubby Peonies. — For tlie best six varieties, to H. Grundel, $5.

For the second best, to J. S. Cabot, $4.

For the best display, to H. Grundel, $3.
Gratuities. — To Hovey & Co., for cut flowers, $3.

To W. E. Carter, for the same, $1.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 333

To W. Kenrick, for the same, $2.

To J. Breck, for tlie same, $3.

To P. Barnes, for the same, $3.

To J. A. Kenrick, for the same, $3.

To Winship & Co., for the same, $2.

To J. Nugent, for the same, $\.

To J. Hovey, for bouquets, $1.

To E. Burns, for the same, $1.
Fruits. — From E. Burns, very fine Black Hamburgh grapes, the berries
large and well colored. From J. F. Allen, a fine collection of grapes, —
among which were tlie Austrian Muscat, (new,) Wilmot's B. Hamburgh,
Muscat of Alexandria, Cannon Hall Muscat, a Seedling Hamburgh, Chas-
selas Musque, &c. ; also Hunt's Tawney nectarines. May Duke, Elton, and
Black Tartarian cherries, figs, and Grosse Mignonne peaches.

The committee tasted the Seedling Hamburgh, of Mr. Allen, which they
state "to be a pleasant grape, but not equal to the Parent; Austrian Muscat,
not high flavored ;" Chasselas Musque, very fine.

Vegetables. — From Jos. Breck & Co., Victoria rhubarb. From J. A*
Kenrick, Victoria rhubarb.

June 15. An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, — Vice
President E. M. Richards, in the chair.

No busuiess coming before the meeting, adjourned two weeks, to June 29.
Exhibited. — Flowers : From Hovey &l Co., thirty-six varieties of azaleas,
including the following superb kinds : — Pencillata stellata, venusta, pontica
carnea, elegantlssima, gloria trii'miphans, speciosa pulchella, Magnificans,
Triumphans, &c. ; also, fifty blooms of rhododendron, in eight or ten vari-
eties ; fifteen varieties of Beck's pelargoniums, and other flowers. From J.
Breck &, Co., Clematis azurea grandiflora, out-door culture, (has proved
quite hardy,) a beautiful variety, with large blue flowers ; iSpirag^a Reevesii,
beautiful /ris Susianna, and other flowers. From H. Grundel, Z<ilium pere-
grinum, tree paeonies, and other flowers. From George Johnson, Seedling
Yellow rose, and otlier kinds. Flowers, in variety, were also contributed by
W. Kenrick, P. Barnes, E. M. Richards, J. Nugent, Winship & Co., J.
Hovey, J. A. Kenrick, A. Bowditch, and otliers.

PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED.

Azaleas. — For the best display, to Hovey &. Co., $5.

For tlie second best, to J. A. Kenrick, $3.
Gratuities. — To J. Breck & Co., for /ris Susianna, the Society's silver
medal, $5.

To George Johnson, for a Seedling yellow rose, the Society's silver
medal, $5.

To J. Breck & Co., for cut flowers, $2.

To P. Barnes, for the same, $2.

To J. Nugent, for the same, $2.

To Winship & Co., for the same, $1.

To Miss Kenrick, for the same, $1.

To Miss Russell, for the same, $1.

334 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

To H. Grundel, for iilium peregrinum, $2.

To H. Grundel, for pseonies and geraniums, $1.

To Hovey & Co., for bouquets, $\.

To J. Hovey, for the same, $\.
Fruits. — From J. F. Allen, Elton and Black Tartarian cherries, large
and fine ; Hunt's Ta\vney nectarines, Grosse Mignonne peaches, and a col-
lection of grapes, — among them Cannon Hall Muscat, Zinfindal, Black Pro-
lific, Wilmot's B. Hamburgh, White Frontignan, &lc. From W. C. Strong,
fine Muscat of Alexandria, Black Hamburgh, and White Frontignan grapes.
From T. Needham, fine specimens of Cannon Hall Muscat, Wilmot's B.
Hamburgh, White Frontignan, and other grapes. From O. Johnson, beau-
tiful Cooledge's Favorite peaches, well ripened and colored. From John
Hill, fine Early Virginia strawberries, the first of the season.

, June 22. Exhibited. — Flowers: From J. S. Cabot, a fine collection of
pseonies, — among them, Reine Hortense, Buyckw, Victoire Modesto, Sul-
phurea, lutea plenissima, Reine Victoria, and seedlings ; also a fine collec-
tion of irises. From H. Grundel, Buyckzi, Edulis superba, Duchesse de
Nemours, Nivea plenissima, and otlier pseonies, calceolarias in variety, and
pelargoniums. From Winship & Co., Virgilia lutea, Amorpha fructicosa,
fringe tree, and other flowers. From L. Davenport, a fine plant, with two
blooms, of the Echinocactus multiplex, a handsome species, with pale pink
flowers, in the same style as E. Eyriesit.

From Hovey & Co., /ris Susianna, ranunculuses and anemonies, Hydran-
gea japonica, Kalmia latifolia, eight varieties of snapdragons, rhododen-
drons, verbenas, St. Margaret and Iphigene, pelargoniums, and other flowers ;
also, sixteen varieties of pasonies, among them festiva, Victoire Modesto, sul-
phurea, Buyclm, &c. From Breck & Co., pseonies, in variety, variegated
leaved chestnut, Clematis azuroa, and other flowers. Flowers, in variety,
were sent by the President, B. V. French, A. Bowditch, J. Hovey, O. N.
Shannon, P. Barnes, Miss Barnes, J. Nugent, W. Kenrick, T. Needliam,
Miss Russell, J. Duncklee, and others.

PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED.

PSEONIES. — For the best twelve varieties, to H. Grundel, $5.

For the second best, to Hovey & Co., $4.

For the best display, to H. Grundel, $3.
Hardy Rhododendrons. — For the best display, to Hovey & Co., $5.

For the second best, to Hovey & Co., $S.

For the third best, to Hovey & Co., $2.
Gratuities. — To Hovey & Co., for cut flowers, $2.

To Breck & Co., for the same, $2.

To P. Barnes, for the same, $2.

To Winship & Co., for the same, $1.

To A. Bowditch, for the same, $1.

To Jas. Nugent, for the same, ^1.

To Miss Russell, for the same, $1.
FauiTs. — From T. Needham, very splendid Cannon Hall, Black Ham-

Horticultural Operations for July. 335

burgh, and other grapes. From J. F. Allen, ten or twelve varieties of
grapes. From E. Burns, six beautiful clusters of Black Hamburgh grapes,
large berries, and finely colored. From J. Nugent, Black Hamburgh grapes.
From O. Johnson, beautiful Cooledge's Favorite peaches. From M. H.
Simpson, very superior Hovey's Seedling strawberries. From Jos. Rich-
ardson, Cambridge and Richardson's Early strawberries. From J. Owen,
Boston Pine strawberries. From Capt. W. H. Austin, Early Virginia and
Boston Pine strawberries. From C. E. Grant, NeAvland's Alpine straw-
berries, similar to, if not identical with, the Wood. From E. S. Rand, Early
Purple Guigne cherries.

HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS

FOR JULY.
FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines, in the greenhouse, will now be rapidly swelling up their
fruit, which will begin to color by the last of the month. Go over the
bunches carefully, and, if any of them appear crowded, thin out such berries
as impede the growtli of tlie others, or prevent the cluster from attaining a
good form. Top the laterals as they require it, and keep the house well
damped morning, noon and night. Attend to giving air in due season, and
close up rather early in the afternoon. The season, so far, has been rather
wet, and there has been no necessity of watering the border ; but if drought
should set in, it will be best to give a liberal watering two or three times
before the berries begin to color. Where new vineries have been erected
the present year, and the border not got ready in season, the vines may be
planted as late as the last of the month, and a year be thus saved in their
growtli. If the border is good, and the vines be attended to, they will grow
from ten to twenty feet before winter.

Vines in the open air will now need some attention : as soon as the shoots
have advanced two or three joints beyond the fruit, they should all be topped
except such as are wanted to make wood for next year : tie in the shoots
carefully as they extend in growtli.

Strawberry Beds will now be in full fruit, and as soon as it is all gath-
ered they should be thoroughly wed out, and put in order for making run-
ners for next year.

Peach Trees, in pots, forwarded in the greenhouse, and now having the
fruit well advanced, may be plunged out in a warm sheltered place, and
have the surface mulclied with old rotten manure, or short hay or grass.
Water with liquid guano, until tlie fruit begins to color.

Fruit Trees, budded or grafted, should receive attention ; tie up the
buds carefully, and take oft' all suckers as they continue to spring up. Newly
planted trees, mulched with short grass or hay, will be greatly benefited in
their growth. Pear trees trained as pyramids should now be summer-pruned,

336 HoriiculUiral Operations for July.

by topping all the laterals to one or more buds, and nipping off the tops of
the main shoots, as we have described in our previous volumes.

FLOWER DEPARTMENT.

Dahlias will now be prominent objects of attention with the amateur.
See that tlie shoots are neatly tied up to strong stakes as they advance in
growth. If the weather should be dry, give liberal Avaterings once or twice
a week, and a mulching with cow or horse manure: Will be of great benefit,
where fine show flowers are wanted.

Hyacinths, Tulips, and other shoivy flowering bulbs should be taken
up this month.

AcHiMENES should now be brought forward for a succession. Hepot old
plants if fine large specimens are wanted.

Gloxinias should now have a final shift into their blooming pots.

Camellias should now all be removed from the greenhouse to the open
air ; as soon as the wood gets thoroughly hardened the plants may be re-
potted, placing^tliem ii) a half shady situation, where they will not be blown
about by the wind. Inarchings may now be cut from the parent plants.

Cactuses now about making their growth should be repotted, and have
occasional waterings of liquid manure.

Perennial Flower Seeds of all kinds may now be planted. Early
sown kinds, potted off, may now be turned out into the beds where they are
to remain to bloom.

Carnations and Picotees should now receive attention ; they will soon
be in bloom, and as the flower stems advance see tliat they are securely tied
up. If very large and fine blooms are wanted, break out all but three or
four of the best buds. Young seedlings may now be planted out in beds.

Roses of all kinds planted out in the open ground may be layered the
last of the month. Perpetual roses will bloom best in autumn, if they are
pruned in after having opened their first flowers.

Pelargoniums will soon be getting out of bloom ; when they sliould all
be headed down, and the cuttings put in if young plants are wanted ; keep
the plants rather dry for a fortnight after heading in.

Fuchsias should be repotted again if fine large plants are wanted.

Stephanotus floribundus will now begin to bloom, and as the shoots
advance in growth, they should be neatly tied up to the trellis.

Heaths not planted out in the ground should now be repotted, if not
already done, and plunged in a half shady cool situation.

Chinese Primrose Seeds may now be sown for producing good bloom-
ing plants next winter. The double white and purple should now be propa-
gated from cuttings.

Chrysanthemums should now be topped to make them fine bushy plants.
See the article in a preceding page, and also in our June number.

Biennial and Perennial Seeds may now be planted for blooming
next year.

Ranunculuses should be taken up tliis month.

Azaleas should be potted this month.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTURE-

AUGUST, 1850.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. 1. Descriptions and Engravings of Select Varieties
of Pears. By the Editor.

We have already informed our pomological friends, that,
in consequence of the almost entire failure of the pear crop
of 1849, we should not be enabled to give the descriptions
and engravings of many of the new varieties of high repu-
tation abroad, which we expected to have had in bearing last
season. We had, however, anticipated such an abundant
crop the present year that we thought we should be enabled to
more than make up for any deficiency of the last. To a certain
extent there is now the promise of a fair crop of pears, but
by no means anything like the quantity expected ; and unfor-
tunately the loss, in many instances, is among the new and
rarer kinds, which, only shoAving a few blossoms on small
trees, more generally lost the few fruits which set, than the
older and larger ones, where, out of the sheet of bloom, a
larger or smaller crop, according to soil, situation, or expo-
sure, is now coming to maturity.

But among those of recent introduction, of which, by the
kindness of our friends, we obtained specimens last year,
were the Beurre Langelier and Beurre Goubault. These we
now have the pleasure of presenting to pomologists and
cultivators, and with them the Styrian, Belle Epine Dumas,
and the fine old pears. White Doyenne and Brown Beurre.

VOL. XVI. NO. VIII. 43

338 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

121. Beurre' Langelier. Mag. of Hart., Vol. XII, p. 336.

The Beurre Langelier {fig. 15) was introduced to the
notice of cultivators by M. Langelier, of Jersey, in 1845,
and was probably raised from seed by him. In our volume.

Fig. 15. Beurri Langelier.

above quoted, we gave a brief account of it, in which we
copied the circular issued by M. Langelier, and circulated
with the first trees which were offered for sale. We first
received our trees in 1845, but as they were exceedingly
small they scarcely more than established themselves that
year. The succeeding spring and fall we grafted and bud-
ded both large and small trees, many of which were cov-
ered with fruit buds the third year. But the winter of
1848 and 1849 destroyed nearly every bud, and all our large

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears. 339

trees, to the number of a dozen or more, did not afford otie
single fruit.

In the autumn of 1846 we gave a few scions to our friend.
Dr. C. F. Chaplin, of Cambridge, which he inserted on the
top of a young tree, which had originally been worked on
the quince : it grew away rapidly, and last year came into
flower ; but as it suffered, in common with other trees, by
the effects of the winter, only one perfect specimen attained
to maturity.

This specimen was accidentally blown from the tree by
the gale of October last, but not being injured, it was kept
into February, when it was exhibited at the hall of the
Massachusetts Horticultural Society, and tasted by the com-
mittee, who pronounced it " a handsome pear, of good size,
having some resemblance to the Bartlett; of a spirited,
pleasant flavor, juicy, melting, and promises to sustain its
European reputation,"

It may, perhaps, appear rather premature to give an esti-
mate of this variety from one pear, but, when its reputation
is so high abroad, and a single fruit, under ordinary circum-
stances, fully comes up to the character of first-rate fruit, there
can be little doubt that it will prove a most valuable acqui-
sition. The tree is one of the most vigorous and beautiful
growers, with an upright regular habit, and a deep green
glossy foliage. It also succeeds both upon the quince and
pear stock.

Size, large, about three and a half inches long and three
inches in diameter : Form, obtuse-pyramidal, somewhat
Bon Chretien shaped, slightly contracted about the middle,
and ending obtusely at the stem : Skhi, fair, smooth, light
green, becoming pale lemon yellow when mature, with a
broad tinge of pale blush on the sunny side, and dotted
with numerous small russet specks : Stem, medium length,
about an inch long, rather slender, and obliquely inserted in
a small shallow and contracted cavity : Eye, small, closed,
and rather abruptly sunk in a small furrowed basin ; seg-
ments of the calyx short : Flesh, yellowish Avhite, fine, firm,
buttery and juicy : Flavor, rich, vinous, and sprightly, with

340 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

a fine aroma : Core, medium size
Ripein Jan uary and February.

122.

Seeds, medium size.

Beurre' Goubault. Revue Horticole, 1848 j Mag. of
Hort, Vol. XIII, p. 451.

The Beurre Goubault [fig. 16) has been very recently in-
troduced, and has only fruited in two or three collections in
this country. Our drawing was made from a very fine

Fig. 16. Beurre Goubault.

specimen kindly sent us by F. Tudor, Esq., in whose garden,
at Nahant, it was produced last year. As far as we could
judge from the few specimens tasted, we should consider it
a very excellent fruit, and one well worthy of a place in
every good collection.

This variety was raised by M. Goubault, of Angers,
France, who also produced two other sorts, the Beurre Su-
perfine and the Doyenne Goubault, both said to be excellent.

Size, medium, about three inches long and three inches
in diameter : Form, roundish-obovate, regular, full at the

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears. 341

crown, narrowing to the stem, where it ends obtusely : Ski?ij
fair, smooth, greenish yellow, with a few scattered patches
of russet, and dotted with small russet specks : Stem, shorty
about half an inch long, rather slender, and slightly inserted
in a small cavity : Eye, small, open, and considerably de-
pressed in an open and rather deep basin ; segments of the
calyx short, stiff, projecting : Flesh, yellowish, rather coarse,
melting, and juicy : Flavor, sprightly, sugary, perfumed and
excellent : Core, small : Seeds, medium size, short, plump.
Ripe in October and keeps some time.

123, Styrian. Hort. Soc. Catalogue, 3d Ed., 1842.

The Styrian, (fig. 17,) though enumerated in the Cata-
logue of the London Horticultural Society as long ago as
1832, does not seem to have been much known to pomo-
logical writers. Lindley does not mention it, and neither
Prince, in the Pomological Manual, or Kenrick, in the first
edition of the Orchardist, notice it. The late Mr. R. Man-
ning, of Salem, was the first to make this, as he was numer-
ous others, known to cultivators. In our volume for 1837
(III, p. 47) he gave a brief account of it, where he states he
received " the scions from England, and that its origin was
unknown." It first fruited in the Pomological Garden in
1836, but the season was so unfavorable that the pears did
not mature so as to judge of their quality.

Since that time its cultivation has extended, but it is still
very little known. We suspect its merits have been over-
looked. It is a great bearer, a vigorous and handsome
growing tree, and the fruit, which is of good size, has a
brilliant red cheek, keeps well, and though not perhaps com-
ing up to the character of a first-rate pear, is so near it that
its combined qualities entitle it to a prominent place in every
good collection. It often, like the Passe Colmar, bears a
second crop, but the fruit does not attain maturity. In the
present unfavorable season, when so many sorts have
blighted and been rendered quite worthless, the Styrian is
unusually fair throughout the entire tree. The tree has an
upright and handsome habit, and bears young.

342 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

Size, medium, three inches long, and two and a half in
diameter : Form, pyramidal, regular, with a somewhat un-
even surface, large at the crown, and tapering roundly to

Fig. 17. Styriun.

the stem : Skin, fair, smooth, yellow when mature, tinged
with light red on the sunny side, somewhat traced Avith
russet and regularly dotted with russet specks : Stem, me-
dium length, about an inch long, slender, slightly fleshy and
swollen at the base, and obliquely attached without any
cavity : Eye, medium size, open, and but little depressed, in
a small shallow basin ; segments of the calyx short : Flesh,
yellowish, coarse, melting and juicy : Flavor, sugary, spright-
ly perfumed and very good : Core, rather large : Seeds, me-
dium size, very short and plump. Ripe in October and
November.

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears. 343

124. Belle Epine Dumas.

Due de Bordeaux,

Belle Heloise,

Belle et Bonne de Hee,

Dingier,

Epine de Rochoir,

^Of some French Collections.

We have been in doubt as to which of the above names
is the legitimate title of this excellent pear, (fg. 18.) It

Fig. 18. Belle Epine Dumas.

has been sent from France under all of them, and the error
is still continued by some nurserymen, M. Jamin, of Paris,

344 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

however, we notice, has affixed the synonymes in his cata-
logue, so that he, at least, may no longer perpetuate the
mistake. It was first fruited here as the Epine Dumas,
though in our collection we have since had it in bearing
under the first four of the above synonymes.

The Epine Dumas is a very desirable addition to a collec-
tion of pears. The tree is a very vigorous and healthy
grower upon the quince, comes into bearing early, produces
abundantly, and, if the soil is generous, and the location
good, the fruit comes up to first quality. We have not found
the trees to fail of a larger or smaller crop for five to six
years. The tree has a somewhat spreading habit, and the
fruit is borne in terminal clusters on the young wood, as
well as upon the spurs of the previous year.

One of its best qualities is the gradual ripening of the
crop. We have had them in eating upwards of six weeks.

Size, large, about three and a half inches long and three
in diameter : Form, oblong-pyramidal, rather full at the
crown, contracted near the stem end, which is obtuse : Skin,
fair, smooth, pale dull yellow, tinged with bright red on the
sunny side, and thickly covered with large bright russet
specks : Stem, long, about one and a half inches in length,
rather stout, curved, little swollen at the base, and inserted
with scarcely any depression : Eye, small, open, and little
depressed in a small very shallow basin ; segments of the
calyx short : Flesh, yellowish, rather fine, melting and
juicy : Flavor, rich, sugary, perfumed and good : Core, me-
dium size : Seeds, large, long and pointed. Ripe in Novem-
ber and December, and keeps well.

125. White Doyenne'. Hort. Soc. Catalogue, 3d Ed., 1842.

Doyenn6 Blanc,

White Beurre,

White Autumn Beurre,

Dean's,

Snow Pear, [ Hort. Soc. Cat., 3d Ed., 1842.

Pine Pear,

Warwick Bergamot,

Beurr6 Blanc,

Poire de Limon,

Hort. Soc. Cat., 3d Ed.,
1842.

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears. 345

Poire Neige,

Poire de Seigneur,

Bonne Ente,

A Courte Queue,

Monsieur,

Citron de Septembre,

Valencia,

Kaiserbirne,

Kaiser d'Automne,

Weisse Herbst Butterbirne, I

Dechantsbirne, I

Beurre du Roi, (of some,) j

Beurr6 d'Anglaise, (of some,)

Muscat d'Automne, (of some,)

Passe Colmar d'Automne, (of some,) J

Yellow Butter, Coxe's View, ^t.

Saint Michael, of Boston.

Virgalieu, of jYeiv York.

Butter Pear, of Philadelphia.

The White Doyenne, (fig. 19,) under one or more of the
last three names, is well known to every cultivator of fruit
throughout the country. It was one of the earliest pears
introduced into our gardens, and though now, in some sec-
tions of the country, discarded on account of the cracking
of the fruit, yet, where the locality suits it, it is one of the
finest of all pears. Under the name of Virgalieu, (errone-
ously,) it is brought to New York in great quantities, and
is the principal sort with which the market in that city is
supplied during the autumn months. Very extensive or-
chards of it have been planted in Western New York, where
it ripens in perfection, the trees being literally loaded with its
luscious fruit, and the high price at which the pears are sold
make it one of the most profitable sorts which the orchardist
can plant in that favorable region.

In New England it has, within the last twenty years,
ceased to be much planted owing to the cracking of the
fruit, which renders it quite worthless. In some favorable
localities the fruit is, however, as fair as in New York ; in
cities, especially, it is as handsome as when it was first
introduced. In Boston there are trees, nearly a century old,
which yearly produce abundant crops of the finest and most

VOL. XVI. NO. VIII. 44

346 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

beautiful pears. But, as an orchard fruit on the pear stock, it
cannot be planted with any certainty of a good crop. On
the quince it succeeds far better, and upon this stock we

Fig. 19. White Doyennl

have had trees loaded with fair specimens, while, on adjacent
trees, in precisely the same soil, nearly every pear has been
so much blighted as to be worthless. Mr. Kenrick, and
some other writers, long ago denounced the White Doyenne
as " an outcast," and though his expression may seem a
strong one, still, practically, for New England, it is correct,
until at least some method may be discovered to check the
decay of the fruit.

The cause of the cracking of this pear has been a fertile
subject of discussion among pomological writers, some con-
tending, with Mr. Knight's doctrine, that the variety had
become worn out ; others, that it was caused by the attack of

Desa'iptions of Select Varieties of Pears. 3 17

a fungus, and still others, that the sole cause has been the
propagation upon suckers or diseased stocks. Mr. Downing
was an especial advocate of the latter theory, and contended
that if trees were obtained from an inland nursery, they
would produce as fine fruit as in former years. This notion
was strenuously adhered to for a time, until, satisfied it was
no longer tenable, he abandoned it and adopted another one.
viz., that the cause was to be attributed to the exhaustion of
some peculiar constituents of the soil, necessary to the growth
of the tree, and that if these Avere supplied, (which they could
be with but little trouble,) the fruit could be produced in
as great perfection as in former years. To sustain this idea,
instances have been given where old trees, Avhich have
borne cracked fruit for years, have been wholly or partially
recovered by the trenching of the earth around the roots,
and the application of a small quantity of peat, ashes, and
bones, which furnish the substances wanting in the old soil ;
and, from the fact that some of the trees, thus experimented
upon, have borne a few fair fruit, the exhaustion theory has
been founded.

We have not time here to follow further this subject, as
our object is now a description of this fine pear, but we
intend to take up the matter at a future day, after the
conclusion of some experiments we are now making, and
which are being made by others, and show that to whatever
cause the cracking may be attributed, it is not to the ex-
haustion of any peculiar constituents of the soil.

We have said that, upon the quince stock, the White
Doyenne produces beautiful fruit ; so that this old favorite
may yet be cultivated in all the localities where it does not
succeed upon its own stock.

An impression prevai-ls with many amateur cultivators of
this vicinity, who chance to be in New York in September
or October, when the Doyenne is offered so abundantly for
sale, that the fair and luscious pears called the Virgalieu
cannot be the same as the Saint Michael ; and we have
known individuals to order trees from the New York nurse-
ries, in order that the veritable sort may be obtained. One

348 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

great object of our figuring and describing it, at this time,
is to do away with any such erroneous idea respecting this
old pear.

A deep and fertile soil, and a situation sheltered as much
as possible from the East winds, should always be selected
for the White Doyenne ; and grown as pyramidal trees on
the quince, an abundance of fruit, in all the beauty of for-
mer days, will be the result.

Size, medium, about three inches long, and two and three
quarters in diameter : Form, obovate, regular, full at the
crown and tapering to the stem, where it ends obtusely :
Skin, fair, smooth, clear pale yellow, tinged with a beautiful
red on the sunny side, and regularly sprinkled with small
russet specks : Stem, medium length, about three quarters of
an inch long, moderately stout, curved, and inserted in a
very small rounded cavity : Eye, small, closed, and inserted
in a very shallow, open basin ; segments of the calyx small
and short : Flesh, white, fine, melting, very buttery and
juicy : Flavor, rich, sugary, delicately perfumed and deli-
cious : Core, medium size : Seeds, medium size. Ripe in
September and October.

126. Bkown Beurre'. Hort. Soc. Catalogue, 3d Ed., 1842.

Beurr6 Rouge,

Beurre Gris,

Beurre Dore,

Beurr6 Vert,

Beurre,

Golden Beurre,

Red Beun-6, (of some,)

Beurr^ du Roi,

Badham's,

Beurre d'Anjou, (erroneously,)

Beurr6 d'Ambleuse,

Beurr6 d'Amboise,

Isambert,

Isambert le Bon,

Grey Beurr6, American Gardener.

Formerly the Brown Beurre {fig. 20,) was considered the
" prince of pears," and to say that any new variety came up

Hort. Soc. Cat, 3d Ed., 1842.

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears. 349

to it in quality Avas sufficient to give it the highest reputa-
tion. Quite unlike the White Doyenne, it yet had an
equally high rank ; its character being that of a brisk, vinous^

» Fig. 20. Brown Beurri.

sprightly fruit, while that of the former was a sweet deliGious
sort. But from causes unknown, like the Doyenne, the-
fruit is liable to crack, and in the same localities, where the
latter does not succeed, the Brown Beurre is nearly worth-
less. In Boston and in crowded cities, in the western part
of Massachusetts and in Western New York, the fruit is
still fair and beautiful, and in this condition it yet maintains
all its former claims to excellence. As a pear for orchard
cultivation the same remarks we made respecting the White
Doyenne apply to this. But planted in warm sheltered
gardens, the trees trained as pyramids or espaliers, or upon
walls, the most luscious fruits are produced. In the garden
of J. P. Gushing, Esq., of Watertown, where several trees are

350 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

trained to the walls, pears, weighing ten or twelve ounces
each, have been produced, of surpassing excellence. A small
tree in our collection, upon the quince, has annually pro-
duced a crop of fine fruit.

In cold and unfavorable seasons, when the fruit does not
attain a good size, it is often wanting in flavor and extremely
acid ; this has induced some cultivators to class it as only an
"ordinary pear. Coxe, in his account of it, says, " it is of
very varying excellence ;" and Mr. Manning remarks, that
" it is one of the best if not the best of the old varieties.
In exposed places the pears are worthless, but in protected
gardens, or in cities, or trained to a wall, they are still excel-
lent." (Vol. Ill, p. 44.) Its qualities should, therefore,
only be judged when the specimens are produced under
favorable circumstances. It is true there are now so many
new pears of great merit, at the season of the Brown Beurre,
that its loss would not be noticed ; still it is to be hoped that
so good a fruit will not be entirely neglected or its cultiva-
tion abandoned.

The tree is of a rather straggling and irregular habit, and
only of moderately vigorous growth. It succeeds well on
the quince and produces abundant crops.

Size, large, about three inches long, and nearly three in
diameter : Form, obovate, regular, largest in the middle,
tapering in a swollen manner to the stem : /S/cin, fair, nearly
smooth, dull green, becoming yellowish green when mature,
and pretty regularly covered with tracings and specks of
dull russet : Stem, medium length, about three quarters of
an inch long, stout, and obliquely inserted on the somewhat
obtuse base, without any cavity : Eye, medium size, open,
and nearly even with the surface of the crown ; segments
of the calyx short and refiexed : Flesh, greenish white,
little coarse, melting and juicy : Flavor, rich, vinous, spright-
ly, perfumed and excellent : Core, large and slightly gritty :
Seeds, small, broad, dark brown. Ripe in September and
October.

Root-Pnumw' the Pear and other Fruit Trees. 351

Art. II. Root-Pruning the Pear and other Fruit Trees.
From the Gardeners' Chronicle.

We have, in our previous vohimes, said so much upon
the beneficial effects of root-pruning, that it would seem
almost superfluous to bring forward any farther evidence of
its good effects, or recapitulate the best mode of performing
this operation. We believe the fact is established, at least
among practical men, that, in most instances, fruit trees,
especially of the pear and apple, cannot be brought into
early bearing on their oivn stock, only through the medium
of root-pruning. To have pyramidal pears in good shape,
and to keep them within reasonable bounds of growth, is
next to impossible without it. This being settled, we need
only direct attention to the following article, certainly one
of the best we have ever read on the subject, to remind
cultivators that now is the time to root-prune ; and, after un-
derstanding the rationale of the operation, they will at once
be enabled to have an abundance of fruit : —

Much as the cultivation of the pear and other fruit trees
has been improved, by grafting upon suitable stocks, with
the view to make them bear sooner, and also by root-prun-
ing in November, so strongly and clearly described by Mr.
Rivers, in his " Miniature Fruit Garden," yet, in some soils
and situations, they grow so late in autumn, and ripen their
wood so imperfectly, that mere winter pruning and summer
stopping are not suflicient of themselves to eftect the desired
end. This over-luxuriant habit of growth is mainly in-
duced by stimulating soil, aided by the mulching generally
applied as soon as the young trees are planted, after coming
from the nursery. So well have pears in particular been
managed of late years, by some of those who have made it
their business and study to provide the public with the best
kinds on the most suitable stocks, that we not unfrequently
see them come from the nurseries in the most perfect condi-
tion ; being handsome miniature trees, with numerous short-
jointed shoots, covered with beautiful well-matured buds,
ready to burst into bloom, while the warmth of spring is

Rool-Prunins: the Pear and other Fruit Trees.

'to

scarcely yet perceptible. This is partly the result of fre-
quent root-pruning and removal, with the view of inducing
fruitfulness ; and fruitful they are, for we have had no fewer
than a dozen fine peai-s upon a small tree, the first year after
planting. But it is a question whether cutting the roots in
winter is the safest time for the operation ; for if much rain
happens to fall, and the soil becomes sodden, the newly
cut parts may, and often do, suffer injury. The practice of
cutting the roots yearly while the tree is young, and before
it has attained the size desired by the owner, tends, on the
one hand, to cripple its energies, and make it old when it is
yet young ; while the extremely fruitful habit of the trees,
as now sent out, is incompatible with that quick growth
which we all like to see in trees intended to be trained to a
particular form and size, and kept to that, when it is once
attained, by judicious root-pruning.

The new owners are, of course, delighted on receiving
such trees from the nursery, and are soon busy in placing
them in their stations in the garden. The trees are planted,
tstaked, s.nd mulched, and in dry weather, during the first
spring, well watered. All this is perfectly right ; for al-
though the young trees are interesting to look at in their
-dwarfed state, most people prefer having them of a larger
size as soon as possible ; and trained either into a handsome
pyramidal form, from 4 to 6 feet high, well furnished with
shoots from the base to the top, or it may be into a cylin-
drical or an umbrella shape according to fancy. In order to
cause them to attain the form and size desired in the short-
est possible time, good soil, and careful management as to
mulching and watering, with frequent stopping and training
for a few years, are indispensable. But during this time the
plants in most soils lose that short-jointed and fruitful habit
which the skilful nurseryman had been at such pains to give
them, and acquire what may be termed a rampant habit of
growth, notwithstanding that the depth of soil in which
they are planted has been limited to a foot or 18 inches, and
rests upon an impervious bottom of rubble and concrete to
prevent their roots from going too deep.

Root-Pruning the Pear and other Fruit Trees. 353

Now as rapid growth and a fruitful habit cannot obtain at
the same time, the great matter is to be enabled to grow the
tree into the form and size desired in the shortest space of
time, and then, in one season, to bring it into a fruitful state.
The former of these objects can easily be attained in the
manner mentioned above ; and the latter, which is the more
important, would, we presume, be a desideratum to many of
our readers, who, like ourselves, would prefer seeing trees
covering their allotted spaces quickly, and without regard to
having more fruit than chance or good seasons might pro-
duce while this is going on, and afterwards to be enabled to
ensure plenty of fruit buds for the ensuing season.

To many it will be a startling assertion, but it is true that
the best time for root-pruning fruit trees, with a view to
make them ripen their wood well, and set plenty of fruit
buds, is in July or early in August ; or in forward situations
as soon as they have formed their first growth, for many
trees make a second shoot, or what is termed a midsummer
growth, among which are the apple and pear, although vig-
orous young trees sometimes continue to grow throughout
the season until their progress is arrested by cold on the
approach of winter. Than this latter state nothing can be
more unfavorable to the production of fruit, and to remedy
it quickly summer root-pruning is a certain means, as the
moment the operation is performed all growth is checked,
and the perfect elaboration of the sap in the tree commences.
This principle applies to all fruit trees, whether trained on
walls or kept as standards, that are unfruitful or in too gross
a state. It also accords beautifully with the system of sum-
mer pruning and stopping, as a proper balance is preserved
by it between root and branch. The natural tendency of
an over-vigorous tree, after being stopped, to throw out a
forest of laterals, is also prevented. The excessive flow of
sap in the tree is checked at the warmest period of the year :
and any fresh accession of crude juices from the root, being
in a great measure stopped by the root-pruning, the sap
already in the tree, through being acted on by the heat of
autumn, becomes perfectly elaborated, and fruitfulness is the

VOL. XVI. NO. VIII. 45

354 Root-Pruning the Pear and other Fruit Trees.

result. I have never seen a tree so treated that has not been
covered with fruit buds in the autumn, and when a favora-
ble spring followed, an abundant crop has been invariably
obtained, while, by November pruning, the grossness of the
following season only is checked; and in the summer which
intervenes between the period of root-pruning and the time
when the fruit may be expected, the trees not iinfrequently
recover their over-luxuriance, especially in rich soil or moist
situations. As a matter of course, this process is unneces-
sary with trees in a bearing state ; but those with only a
partial crop, and which are growing too freely, may be
moderately root-pruned, without danger of the fruit suffer-
ing, taking care not to neglect giving a good soaking of
water immediately after the operation.

It is certainly a great triumph in the art of gardening, to
be able to bring pear and apple trees into a bearing state
while they are young, and only two or three feet in height ;
and it also affords satisfaction to purchasers to ascertain,
(often in the first year after planting,) if the trees they are
to be at some pains with are the kinds they wished for ; but
in order to give them a stronger constitution than trees can
have which are constantly kept in a dwarfed state, we are
of opinion that it will be found better to allow them to
grow pretty freely for a few years, after they are planted
in their permanent situations, and then summer root-prune
them.

AVe confess that we often envy the position of those who
are situated where fruit trees ripen their wood, and bear,
with scarcely any assistance in the way of root-pruning. In
such situations the grower has only to order his trees already
in a bearing state, as supplied by our leading nurserymen,
and he will secure plenty of the finest fruit from the season
in which they are planted, instead of having as formerly to
wait for years. Some trees planted by ourselves in Febru-
ary, 1849, have this year made shoots from three to four
feet in length ; and some pyramidal trellises five feet high
and three feet wide at the base are becoming pretty well
covered with wood. These trees we shall root-prune in a

Root-Priming the Pea?' and other Fruit Trees. 355

few days, commencing by opening a trench round them
about two feet from the stem down to the hard platform
below, and all the roots that are inclined to be strong will
be cut back to within eighteen inches of the stem ; but
few, except the stronger leading roots, will have advanced
so far out at present, and by shortening these the vigor of
the trees will be arrested and some fruit buds will be formed
in the present autumn. Some pear trees grafted on pear
stocks, covering an arched trellis sixty yards long, six feet
wide, and nine feet high, were root-pruned, for the first
time, in July, 1848, when the trees, which had been planted
five years in strong rich soil, were exceedingly gross. The
result of this was, that, in 1849, we had a plentiful crop of
fruit on every tree, although previous to this scarcely a pear
was obtainable. Numerous other instances of success with
pears, apples, peaches, and apricots, could be mentioned, but
it is scarcely necessary. The only difficulty which amateurs
are likely to find, in applying this system of root-pruning,
will be in determining the distance from the stem at which
the trench should be made, and it is not easy to give precise
directions on this point. Trees that have only been planted
two, three, or four years, may, with safety, be cut to within
about two or three feet of the stem, proportioning the dis-
tance to the size which they may have attained. The roots
of trees may, by frequent pruning, be kept within a com-
paratively small space, by beginning with them the second
or third year after planting, and at every successive operation
going three or four inches further from the stem, and adding
some fresh loamy soil ; but trees that have been long estab-
lished, and have not been root-pruned, should not be cut too
close. Apricots and peaches may be kept in a fine bearing
state by root-pruning in the summer, when they have no
crop, and early in the autumn when they have a crop, but
are still too gross. We operate upon wall trees in this state
as soon as the fruit is gathered, and the wood ripens admi-
rably.

It will be well to add, by way of conclusion, that after
pruning or shortening the strong roots, which are the cause

356 Pomological Gossip.

of unfruitfulness, we put some decayed turf, or fresh loamy
soil against them, in order that they may strike freely into
it, which they immediately do, as the season of growth is at
its height. The food supplied by the new roots during the
autumn will have nothing crude in it, but will supply sap of
a kind calculated to form fruit buds. In soils where the
pear bears well naturally, without all this labor, it will be
superfluous to meddle with it ; but hundreds will be glad to
avail themselves of a simple, quick, and certain means of
ensuring fruit buds in a month or two, where there was
before nothing but masses of watery, fruitless shoots.

Art. III. Pomological Gossip.

New Varieties of Strawberries. The season just past
has been a most favorable one for strawberries in this vi-
cinity. Owing to the constant and heavy rains during April
and May, and even into June, the crop has been more
abundant than any previous year. This has, therefore, been
a favorable time to test the merits of some of the newer
kinds which have been so highly eulogized, some of them
as surpassing all others. The quantity of moisture, accom-
panied with moderately cool weather, has perfected the
growth of the largest sized fruit, though somewhat at the
sacrifice of flavor ; and the reputed large strawberries which
did not excel this year, may be considered as having failed
to sustain their reputation. In our ovv^n grounds we have
had Burr's New Pine, Richardson's Late and some others;
and a variety of kinds have been exhibited at the hall of
the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, the principal col-
lection of which was sent by Mr. L. C. Eaton, of Provi-
dence, and embraced the following twenty-five kinds : —

Gen. Jaquiemont, New York Hudson Bay,

Scarlet Melting, Dundee,

Rhode Island Hudson Bay, Crimson Cone,

Cincinnati Hudson Bay, Myatt's Eliza,

Pomological Gossip.

357

Deptford Pine,
Taylor's Seedling,
Burr's New Pine,
Cattrugh's Seedling, No. 8,

(English,)
Cuttrugh's Seedling, No. 6,
Ohio Mammoth,
Old Pine,
Rival Hudson.

Mottier's Seedling,

Columbia,

Myatt's Prolific,

Black Prince,

Scioto,

Princess Alice Maude,

Profusion,

Jenney's Seedling,

Princess Royal, (French,)

Duke of Kent,

The report of the fruit committee, after tasting the above,
will be noticed in the proceedings of the Horticultural So-
ciety in another page, and we would prefer that their opin-
ion should be taken in preference to our own.

So far, however, as our individual opinion goes, and we
examined and tasted the strawberries, we do not consider
one of the above sorts really worthy of cultivation. Any
cultivator, selecting his seed carefully from fine sorts, can
raise a hundred seedlings as good as any of the above, un-
less we except the Deptford Pine. At the time we raised
our seedlings, in 1834, we dug up whole beds of better ones.
Indeed, a crop of fine strawberries may be as easily raised
from seeds as a crop of melons. The French cultivators
always raise the Monthly Alpine as an annual, sowing the
seeds in the spring, and gathering the crop in the autumn,
and the berries are always large and fine. The other kinds
are no exception to the rule.

It will be seen that there are three Hudson Bays in the list.
Of course only one could be true : that one was the New
York Hudson ; the Cincinnati and Rhode Island Hudsons
were misnomers. The Black Prince was certainly the poor-
est and most flavorless berry we ever tasted. Burr's New
Pine has a very pleasant, agreeable flavor when fully ripe,
but is deficient in color and too small to be of any value.

Mr. Eaton certainly deserves the thanks of cultivators,

for the expense and trouble of procuring, cultivating and

• proving all these kinds, some of which were discarded

twenty years ago ; but his experiment shows that all new

358 Pojnological Gossip.

seedlings, whether of strawberries or other fruits, should be
carefully tested by those who produce them, before they are
trumpeted forth as ''larger, better and more productive,"
than all others.

One would hardly suppose that an intelligent cultivator
could have credulity enough to be induced to purchase a
dozen plants of Newland's Mammoth Alpine, which was
hawked about the streets of Boston and other cities a year
ago. The fact that it was merely an Alpine strawberry was
sufficient to show there could not be much mammoth about
it. Yet many individuals, attracted by the flaming adver-
tisement and cJiallenge, purchased what they had previously
dug up by the barrow load, — the old Wood strawberry !

We hope the strawberry committee of the Massachusetts
Horticultural Society will make a report on the merits of
the varieties of this fruit in general cultivation, and, taking
some sort as combining the greatest merit, discard at once
all which do not come up to the proper standard of excel-
lence.

Belle d'Orleans Cherry. This is the name of a new
French variety which has fruited in the garden of the Hon.
M. P. Wilder. It was ripe this year about the same season
as the May Bigarreau, and is somewhat larger than that
kind ; the skin is of a clear amber, with a pale red cheek ;
the flesh juicy, tender, well-flavored and good. It promises
to be a good variety, and well worthy of cultivation.

Bigarreau de Mezel Cherry. Mr. J. Washburn, of
Plymouth, exhibited the fruit of this new cherry; the speci-
mens were from a young tree, and if of full size, it is only
a medium-sized fruit, and in no way worthy of the praise
bestowed upon it. The cherries appeared to be some sort
of a Bigarreau.

Bigarreau de Lyon Cherry. — Under this name some
very excellent cherries were sent us by our correspondent,
Lewis Eaton, president of the Buffalo Horticultural Society.
It is a very large black cherry, greatly resembling the New
Black Bigarreau, and appears to be a valuable variety.

071 the Cultivation of American Plants. 359

Art. IV. On the Cultivation of American Plants, — the
Rhododendron, Azalea, c^'c. By Messrs. Standish &>
Noble, Bagshot, near London. From the Gardeners^
Chronicle. With Remarks by the Editor.

. Owing to the magnificent exhibitions of American plants,
— so called, par excellence, — whiclx have been held in the
Regent's Park, in connection with the Royal Botanic Soci-
ety, the last two or three years, great attention has been
directed to this class of ornamental shrubs. The rhododen-
drons, azaleas, kalmias, &c., displayed in all the varied hues
and tints which art has given them, through the process of
hybridization, have attracted renewed attention, and are
coming more than ever into favor as the most beautiful
objects of the pleasure ground or garden.

The principal exhibitors at the displays which have been
made, were the Messrs. H. Waterer, of Knap Hill, and J.
Waterer, of Bagshot, both extensive cultivators, whose
grounds we have already given a full account of in our
foreign tour, (Vol. XII, p. 13.) We can well imagine the
magnificence of some of the standard specimens which we
saw in their grounds, when in full bloom and beauty. Some-
thing of their splendor we have had in our own grounds the
past June. On plants which we selected in 1844, out of
Mr. Waterer's collection, we had upwards of one hundred and
fifty heads of flowers, forming a bush four feet high and twelve
in circumference, densely clothed with bloom. So, too, with
the azaleas, some of them seeming like masses of flame,
so sparkling and brilliant were their colors. Nothing in the
whole range of hardy garden shrubs or plants can compare
with them in splendor.

We stated in our volume above referred to, (XII, p. 7),
that we should neglect no opportunity to impress upon the
lovers of beautiful plants, the importance of greater atten-
tion to the culture of the rhododendron, azalea, &c, and we
believe we have made good our promise. Not only have
we dune so through our pages, but in our own grounds we

360 On the Cultivatioji of American Plants.

have brought up specimens to such a size and of such bril-
liancy, that they have been the chief attractions of the
garden.

Recently a small pamphlet has been published, entitled
•' Waterer's System of Growing the Rhododendron, Azalea,
Kalmia, and. other American Plants," and as further aiding
in the good work, Messrs. Standish & Noble, also extensive
growers, have appended to their catalogue their own mode
of treating the same plants. Neither of these, however,
have come under our eye, but we find in the Gardeners''
Chronicle so good an abstract of the latter, that we transfer
it to our pages in anticipation of the original. It is prepared
by the editor, Dr. Lindley, and will serve to show that the
rhododendron may be successfully cultivated, even without
a peat soil, heretofore considered indispensable in the growth
of the plants. We would direct particular attention to the
article, and we shall be glad to know that it has prepared
the way for the more general introduction of " American
plants" into American gardens :

The beautiful appearance of the rhododendrons, and other
American plants, every where this spring, notwithstanding
the severity of the winter, — and the great improvements
which the shows near London prove to have been effected
among them, beyond any thing that could have been antici-
pated,— induce us to place at once, and prominently, before
our readers some judicious observations on their cultivation,
which have been recently published by Messrs. Standish &
Noble, of Bagshot, in their new catalogue of hardy orna-
mental plante.

After remarking upon the general want of an accurate
knowledge of the true principles of managing American
plants, they proceed to remark to the following effect :

'' Comparatively few persons have succeeded in the culti-
vation of rhododendrons, and those few more from accidental
circumstances than from a real knowledge of their natural
requirements. In fact, it is a prevailing idea, that few local-
ities are to be found where they will creditably exist, — to
luxuriate is out of the question. But, on the contrary, ex-

On the Cultivation of American Plants. 361

tensive practice shows that, with a small expenditure of
well-directed labor, rhododendrons may be induced to repay
the attention of the cultivator in any part, and almost any
locality in Great Britain.

" A more unpromising appearance than that originally be-
longing to the present American nursery at Bagshot, can
scarcely be imagined. In its present improved state, it
affords a good example of what can be done in the most
sterile spots. The ground in question forms part of fifty
acres, the whole of which is rated in the poor's rate book at 8/.
The soil, which is from twelve to fifteen inches in depth, is
a black sandy peat, resting upon a clayey subsoil very defi-
cient in vegetable matter, and naturally incapable of produc-
ing any crop. With cultivation it has been rendered in the
highest degree productive. The first operation was to drain
it from three and a half to four feet deep ; it was then
trenched two feet deep, and to every acre so treated, from
thirty to forty tons of good farm-yard manure Avas added ;
and as a precautionary measure, in order to exhaust the
rankness attendant upon this treatment, it was deemed
necessary to take off the land a root crop of potatoes, car-
rots, turnips, and mangold wurzel. After this treatment,
American plants were found to thrive amazingly, but, like
all crops in very poor soils, they continue to be benefited by
the application, from time to time, of suitable enriching
materials.

" It must not, however, be understood that American
plants will flourish in a very poor soil ; on the contrary,
there is evidence every where that, nearly all plants delight
in a rich one. Even mosses, lichens, and heath, are more
healthy and vigorous in the richest localities. AVith a trifling
expense, however, the poorest soil may be rendered suitable
for rhododendrons. An excellent compost may be made as
follows : — To two parts of sandy loam or peat, or in fact
any sandy soil that does not contain much calcareous mat-
ter, (American plants exhibit a great dislike to that,) add
one fourth leaf-mould, one eighth sand, and one eighth
rotten manure. If wanted immediately, the Avhole should

VOL. XVI. NO. VIII. 46

362 On the CuUivatioji of American Plants.

be well beaten and thoroughly incorporated before using.
It would, however, be of great advantage to allow the mix-
ture to remain twelve months, turning it well two or three
times during that period. In old exhausted beds, a good
dressing of rotten manure, forked in, will be fomid highly-
beneficial.

" Another point of the highest importance, for it is the
foundation of all success in the cultivation of the rhododen-
dron and fine-rooted plants of a similar character, is never to
allow them to become thoroughly dry at the j'oot. If this
occurs, the whole structure of the plant is affected, defi-
ciency of vital energy is the result, and the natural conse-
quence of a deteriorated constitution is disease, and possibly
death. The rhododendron, and its allies, sufler more from
excessive dryness than any plants which we recollect, there-
fore a damp situation must be provided for their site. If,
however, stagnant water is present, drains must be employed,
and they should be three feet in depth. If the plants can
enjoy the shade of trees without drip from them, so much
the better.

" At Highclere, the seat of the earl of Carnarvon, in the
lake at Milford, are several small islands of from ten to
twenty yards in diameter, planted with American plants,
presenting the highest state of luxuriance ; many of the
plants are from ten to fifteen feet high, and constitute, in the
blooming season, masses of beauty, from their summits to
the very surface of the lake. The soil of these islands is
not more than eighteen inches above the water.

" On the Himalaya Mountains, the rhododendron is inva-
riably found growing near or on the margin of morasses.
So magnificent is the appearance of masses in flower of the
scarlet species of these mountains, that Dr. Wallich com-
pares the effect to that of regiments of soldiers in scarlet
uniforms in the full sun when viewed at a distance. In
America and other parts of the world, where any of the
very extensive tribe, commonly known as ' American Plants'
are found, it is always on the margin of lakes, rivers or
bogs, or on the nearest portions of dry land in their vicinity.

On the Cultivation of American Plants. 363

Surely,, then, if the many boggy places and swamps Avhich
are to be found in the plantations, on the borders of • drives,'
and even in view from many of our noblemen's princely
mansions, are not worth reclaiming for any other purpose,
they afford excellent situations for the display of taste and
liberality ; the ultimate result of which must be to gratify
the eye of the proprietor, to enrich the landscape, and to
give to our woodland scenery a beauty which is now, ex-
cept in a few isolated cases, confined to the shrubbery and
the pleasure ground.

" If only a moderate amount of stagnant moisture is pres-
ent, ordinary draining is all that will be requisite. But there
are situations in which this is not available, or would be too
expensive, as, for instance, where the bog is of such a depth
as would require a large amount of labor to procure suffi-
cient -fall' for the drains. Under such conditions the de-
sired end can be arrived at by the following means : — Pro-
cure a quantity of brushwood, faggots, poles, old ' pollards,'
or any materials of a like nature, and with them form a
foundation on the spot you wish to plant ; upon this, suffi-
cient soil must be placed, that, allowing for subsidence, not
less than eighteen inches of suitable compost will remain
above the surface of the bog. In such localities the rhodo-
dendron will flourish in all its native beauty, and as the
groAvth will be rapid, the Y\'hole substance of the soil will
quickly become matted together by the roots of the plants,
completely preventing any subsidence in the soil after the
wooden foundation is decayed."

Suppose, however, that soil is naturally dry, and there-
fore the reverse of what " American" plants require, then
Messrs. Standish & Noble give the following directions for
nevertheless securing an adequate amount of moisture.

" The means by which this can be attained are — 1. deep
trenching the natural soil ; and 2, keeping the beds perfectly
flat, and h€h^D the surrounding surface, in order to prevent
the escape of moisture, otherwise than by evaporation. In
such situations, it is absolutely necessary to trench or in
some way prepare a soil, three or four feet in. depth, and the

r^Gd On the Cultivation of American Plants.

following will be found an excellent method. Having de-
termined the outline of the beds, remove the soil a good
spade's depth, with all its attached vegetation, to some con-
venient spot immediately contiguous to the operations ; then
cart away from eighteen inches to two feet of the remaining
soil, well breaking up the bottom; trenching it eighteen
inches would be better still. Upon this cast in the surface
soil previously removed, well chopping it with the spade as
the work proceeds, filling up with a sufficient quantity of
prepared soil, so that after settling down it shall be a few
inches below the natural surface. During dry weather, after
the beds are planted, the surface should be kept constantly
stirred with the hoe and rake, for the double purpose of pre-
venting the growth of weeds and retarding evaporation.
Should an excessively dry season occur, the whole surface
of newly planted beds may with advantage be wholly cov-
ered with the short grass from the lawns. It will at least
prevent the necessity of a frequent iise of the watering pot,
the application of which in all out-door gardening is a prac-
tice ' more honored in the breach than in the observance.'
If the beds are situated in the neighborhood of trees, they
are sure to be invaded by a legion of roots which, if allowed
nnmolested possession, will in a few seasons appropriate the
whole of what you had intended for your favorites. But as
we recommend American plants, in such situations, to be
replanted and the soil trenched to a depth of two feet every
autumn, and every third or fourth year the whole mass of
soil trenched to the bottom — there will not be much to fear
upon that point, and the mass of soil, by being constantly
rendered permeable to the autumn rains, will always contain
a large amount of moisture. There need be no fear of the
plants suffering from removal, as rhododendrons can be trans-
planted with perfect safety, even after they have attained an
immense size, more especially when they have constantly
been subjected to such treatment."

In conclusion, the writers point out the error of supposing
that these directions will involve a large outlay. " Nothing
can be more erroneous. The directions apply to the poorest

On the Cultivation of American Plants. 365

soils and to situations of the worst character. In trenching
and cultivation a small pecuniary outlay will accomplish
much. Labor, in this respect, is cheap, and employment
much needed. The sweepings of lawns, consisting of leaves
and grass, the trimmings of walks, and the refuse and clear-
ings of the flower beds, will, when thoroughly decayed,
furnish a compost in every way available for the purpose,
where the natural soil is not what could be desired ; and
here the preparation of the beds constitutes a mere nominal
outlay."

We shall take some opportunity of commenting upon
these good practical remarks, which, in the meanwhile, we
recommend as safe rules to be observed by those who wish
to emulate the rhododendron growers of Bagshot and its
neighborhood.

The comments of Dr. Lindley appear in a subsequent
paper, and are intended to show that the experience and
practice of Messrs. Standish & Noble are also strictly con-
formable to theory. They are as follows : —

The three points which a gardener must attend to, if he
wishes to grow American plants well, are the following : —
1, the soil must be loose and rich ; 2, there must be free and
constant access of moisture without stagnation ; and 3,
there must be no chalk. In these three rules the whole art
and mystery consists ; and all the tedious directions which
books contain on the subject are either superfluous or are
included in them.

The soil must be light and rich. Peat is not insisted
upon ; on the contrary, it is expressly stated that other sub-
stances will answer the same purpose, provided they are in
the same mechanical condition. The reason of this is
obvious. " American" plants have, in all cases, delicate
hair-like roots, which remain for years without any consid-
erable increase in diameter ; such roots cannot force their
way through a soil which ofiers much resistance to their
progress. Therefore clays, stifl" loams, and any other adhe-
sive compact kinds of earth, are unsuitable to them. Bx-

366 On the Cultivation of American Plants.

eluding these we have nothing left except sand, very sandy
loam, and decayed vegetable matter ; and those substances
intermingled form, in fact, the very soil that American
plants demand. The idea of peat being essential is a mis-
take ; it is a very good material, because it consists of sand
and decayed vegetable matter, and so will any other mix-
ture of the kind be also a good material. Decayed leaves,
fragments of rotten branches, dead roots, (probably char-
coal,) and such matters mixed with sand, in order to prevent
the soil from becoming too compact, replace it perfectly.
The only value of peat consists in its being a good natural
mixture of what is wanted, and readily procurable in large
quantities, in many districts. As to the addition of loam,
the necessity of that depends, we imagine, upon little except
its power of retaining moisture longer than dead or decayed
vegetable matter. Provided the requisite moisture can be
constantly secured, loam ceases to have value. As to ma-
nure, no mistake can be greater than to suppose that, be-
cause plants happen to grow in poor barren soil, they prefer
it. With the single exception of conifers, we believe that
all known plants are improved by manure skilfully applied,
provided it is not in too recent a state. Phosphates, sul-
phates, and azotised matter in small quantities are the all
but universal food of plants, and "Americans" like them as
well as their neighbors. If any one doubts it he has only
to drench them now and then with weak liquid manure ;
that made from Peruvian guano, or cow-dung, is the most
active, apparently in consequence of its abounding so much
in phosphates.

There must be free and constant access of moisture, with-
out stagnation. In this respect " Americans" offer no ex-
ception to the general rule ; the roots of all plants, if to be
kept in high health, must have free and constant access to
moisture, and without stagnation. That is the law. What
then is peculiar in American plants is merely this, that their
roots are much more quickly dried up than the roots of other
plants. They are not thick, fleshy, cellular masses, coated
with a spongy bark capable of detaining moisture with great

Floricultural and Botanical Notices. 367

force. On the contrary, they are, as has been already stated,
and as we all know, delicate hair-like fibres, whose bark is
little more protection to them than the skin of a leaf Such
being their structure, they are emptied of whatever fluids
they may contain the moment that the earth in contact with
them becomes dry ; and once emptied they necessarily per-
ish. All those directions, therefore, which insist upon keep-
ing the level of American beds completely below the sur-
rounding surface, when the situation is not naturally damp,
are founded upon a correct appreciation of the nature of
these plants.

Why chalk should be off"ensive to them we are unable to
explain. Such is certainly the fact ; and we apprehend that
one of the reasons why the American plants at Knap Hill
and Bagshot are so much finer than any in the valley of the
Thames, is essentially owing to the great abundance of lime
in the water of all the latter district. It appears from analy-
sis that while London water, that is to say, Thames water,
contains sixteen grains of lime in a gallon, Bagshot water
contains only one grain, or less.

The true difficulty, then, in growing American plants, is
not, as is generally alleged, the want of proper soil, for that
may be made any where, but the want of a sufficient supply
of pure water ; and it may be a question whether a very
material difference would not be found in those places where
American plants grow badly if rain-water alone were used
in watering them, instead of that from pumps and ditches.

Art. V. Floricultural and Botanical Notices of new and
beautiful Plants ; with dcsci'iptions of those more recently
introduced into, or originated in, American gardens.

Calystegia pubescens. — This fine running plant, which
we have already noticed and figured, (XIV, p. 400,) proves
to be perfectly hardy. From the roots of one very small
plant, left out last autumn, more than twenty strong shoots

368 Floricultiiral and Botanical Notices.

have sprung up, which have already attained the height of
six or seven feet, and have entirely covered the branches of
four or five young trees with their limbs spurred in, opening
daily hundreds of their fine large double blossoms, which, at
a short distance, appear like double roses. It is one of the
finest acquisitions of late years among climbing plants.

Hymeno'psis Californica. a new and very pretty little
annual under this name, one of Mr. Hartweg's discoveries in
California, is now beautifully in flower, in our collection.
It grows about six inches high, with linear leaves, and pro-
duces an abundance of small deep yellow composite flow-
ers, similar in form to the common Jacobtea. The very few
dwarf yellow flowering plants which we possess, renders
this a valuable addition to the garden.

JusTiciA ca'rnea major. — Tliis is one of the most showy
of the justicias, having a large and handsome foliage, each
branch terminated with a dense head of pale pink blossoms.
It flowers freely in the greenhouse during summer, if for-
warded in a warm situation during the spring,

Cu^phea platycentra. The beauty of this plant has
been quite overlooked. As a summer ornament of the con-
servatory it deserves to rank with the fuchsia. We have
now plants, in twelve-inch pots, which have not been out
of flower since February, having gradually advanced from
three inches in height, until they are now as many feet,
forming a dense bush ten feet in circumference, and com-
pletely clothed with scarlet blossoms. We find it likes the
free use of the syringe.

Aq,uilegia fragrans proves to be a perfectly hardy plant.
Its flowers, which are white, are delightfully fragrant, and
are invaluable for bouquets. It has a small delicate foliage,
a rather slender habit, and the flowers are borne on some-
what pendent stems. It attains the height of three feet.

120. BuRTo\\iA pulche'lla Meisn. Elegant Burtonia.
(Papilionacese.) New Holland.

a greenhouse plant ; growing two feet high; with crimson flowers; appearing in spring; cul-
tivated in lieuth soil, loam and sand ; increased by cuttings. (Flore des Serres, ISIS, pi. 406.)

A beautiful species, with the foliage of the Diosma, the
branches terminated with spikes of deep crimson pea-shaped

Floricultural and Botanical Notices. 369

blossoms. It was found by Dr. Ludwig Preiss, in New
Holland, in company with Drummond, who sent the seeds
to England. It is a most desirable greenhouse plant. {Flore
des Serres, October.)

121. Chiri'ta Mooxii Gardn. Mr. Moon's Chirita. [Gcs-

nerkcess.) Ceylon.

A greenhouse or slove plant ; arowin? n foot hi?h ; with blue flowers ; appearing in summer :
grown in leaf-mould, peal and loam ; increased by cuttings. Flore des Serres, IS49, pi. 407.

Very similar in general appearance to the gloxinias, having
large foliage, and exceedingly large flowers, larger than the
gloxinia, of the richest purple. It flourishes with precisely
the same treatment as the gloxinias, and like them displays
its noble flowers all summer. Increased freely by cuttings.
[Flore des SeiTes, November.)

122. Barringto^nia specio^sa. L. Superb Barringtonia.

{Barringtonkce^.) India.

a greenhouse plant ; growing four feet high ; with yellowish flowers -, appearing in spring ; cul-
tivated in loam and leaf-mould ; incieased by cuttings. Flore des Serres, 1849, pi. 409.

When in a flowering state, " it must be proclaimed, with-
out doubt, one of the most beautiful ornaments of the
earth." It forms a small shrub, with leaves more than a
foot long, and proportionably broad, thick and firm, with a
glossy deep green surface. The flowers form an immense
majestic terminal thyrse. The individual beauty of the
flowers consists in a prodigious number of stamens, which
are white at the base, and tipped with crimson, and disposed
in the form of a magnificent plume. They are also as fra-
grant as the Cereus grandiflorus. Altogether it is a superb
object. It is easily grown in a warm greenhouse, in a good
rich soil. {Flore des Serres, November.)

123. Cu'PHEA PURPU^REA. PuRPLE-FlOWERED CuPHEA.

{Lythraceoi.) Cxarden Hybrid.

This is a very pretty hybrid, produced by M. Delache of
St. Omer, France, from seeds of C. miniata, impregnated
with C. viscosissima. The flowers are large, of a beautiful
rose, shaded with violet. The foliage neat and slightly pu-

VOL. XVI. NO. VIII. 47

370 Floricultural and Botanical Notices.

bescent. It is a fine companion for the C. platycentra, and
worthy of a place in every collection. {Flore des Serres,
November. )

126. Thunbe'rgia ala^ta var. Do'ddsii. Mr. Dodd's Thun-

BERGiA. [AcanthacecE.) Garden variety.

A very singular and novel variety of the well known
thunbergia, with deep orange-colored flowers and a dark
centre. The peculiarity of the variety is in its leaves,
which are large, and distinctly bordered with white, present-
ing a striking contrast with its yellow blooms. Probably it
can only be perpetuated by cuttings. {Flore des Serres,
November.)

127. Fu^cHsiA arbore'scens var. syring^flo^ra. Lilac
FLOAVERED FucHsiA. {(Enotfieraceoi.^ Guatemala.

A greenhouse plant ; srowiiig five feet high ; with rose-colored flowers; appearing in winter ;
cullivateii in light rich soil : increased by cuttings. Flore des Serres, 1841), pi. 416.

A very remarkable fuchsia, raised from seeds received
from Guatemala, by M. Van Houtte, in the year 1848. It
attains the height of five or six feet ; branched from the
base to the top, and is covered with its numerous panicles
of flowers. The flowers, before they open, have so much
the appearance of several sorts of lilacs that the name has
been applied to it by the amateurs who saw it in bloom in
Van Houtfe's establishment, and he has retained the name.
The foliage is large like the F. fulgens, and the flowers
appear in immense terminal panicles, quite unlike any other
species. The habit of the plant, its fine broad leaves and
numerous blossoms, render it a most beautiful and desirable
plant.

The treatment of the plants is somewhat different from
the other species. They should be turned out into rich
garden soil, where they will make a vigorous growth. On
the approach of frost they should be taken up, repotted, and
be placed in a warm greenhouse, where they will display
their flowers all winter. {Flore des SeiTes, December.)

Floricultural and Botanical Aotices. 371

12S. Tkevira\\a ca'ndida Due. White flowered Trevi-
KA^NA. (Gcsnc7-ice3c.) Guatemala,
Achiraenes Candida, Lindl. in Jour. Hort. Soc.

A greeiilmuse plant ; growing a foot liU'h ; with wliite flowers; appearing nil summer; culii-
vated in coarse peat and leaf-iiionld ; increased by oflnets. Flore des Serres, 1841), pi. 4^0.

A very pretty species, similar in all respects to the old
and well known T. coccinea, (frequently called Achimenes
coccinea,) except in the color of its flowers, which are
white. It forms a neat contrast with the coccinea, and is
well worthy a place in every collection of these fine summer
flowering plants. {Flore des Serres, December.)

129. Shute^ria bi'color Chois. Two-colored Shuteria.

{Convolvnlacea\) China.

A greenhouse climber; growing six f.'ct high ; with yellowish and violet (lowers ; appearing in
summer ; cultivated in li^ht rich soil ; increased by cuttings and seeds. Flore des Serres, 1SI9,
pi. 421.

A new and handsome climbing plant, of the habit of the
Calystegia, growing as rapidly and displaying its flowers,
which are of a true narikeen color, with a violet tube, all
summer. It was raised from seeds received from the vicinity
of Canton, and it may prove as hardy as the Calystegia.

Its cultivation is simple. In April the young plants com-
mence .growing, and from each axil of the leaf is emitted a
solitary flower ; these are succeeded by others, without inter-
ruption, for three months, during which period the "aspect
of the plant is most graceful." In winter it may be kept in
a cool greenhouse. The color of the blossoms render it a
very interesting object, contrasting prettily with the Ipomaas
and other climbers. [Flore des Serres, December.)

130. DlPLADE^NIA UROPHYLLA Hoolc. LoNG-LEAVED DlP-

LADENiA. {\pocynacem.) Rio Janeiro.

A slove pliint; growing two feet high ; with yellow and rose-colored flowers; appearing in
summer ; cnUivattil in Icaf-inculd and loam ; increased by cuttings. Flore des Serres, lb5t), pi.
425.

A beautiful plant, with an erect l;i9.bit and large handsome
foliage, producing at the axils of the leaves, near the ends of
the shoots, numerous pendent clusters of flowers. The tube
is of a chamois yellow, the limb of a bright rosy salmon.

372 General Notices.

and the throat of a golden orange ; these colors combined,
rendering the plant exceedingly beautiful. It grows freely
with the same treatment as the Gardenm florida. [Flore des
Serres, January.)

131. AscLE>iAS DouGLA'sii Hook. Douglas's asclepias.
(Asc/ejomdacese.) North America.

A Iiaidy herbaceous plant ; growin:; three feet hish ; with pink flowers ; appearing in summer ;
cuUivated in rich soil ; increased by dividing the roots. Flore des Serres, 1S50, pi. 4-'6.

A fine hardy species of the asclepias, discovered by Doug-
las on the Rocky Mountains, but not introduced till 1846,
when it was raised from seeds at Kew. It has a simple
stem, with numerous large flowers of a pale rose, which re-
main in beauty a long time. It is a fine addition to our
hardy plants. [Flore des Serres, January.)

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General JKhtices.

Rare ConifeRjE and Improvements in the Cairnies, at Perth-
shire. (Concluded from p. 229.) [The following is the concluding portion
of the excellent article on the Coniferae, which we have copied in our last
volume and in the present. In the increased interest which cultivators have
given to this tribe of plants, the articles are rendered particularly valuable
at this time. — Ed.]

CUPRESSINJi.

There are here of this tribe —

1. Ciipressits tondosa, a Himmalayan species of much interest. It is not
many years since this species became known in this country, and the doubts
at first entertained of its hardiliood, operated much against its diffusion over
tlie country. Even now that these have been ascertained to be groundless,
— for it has been proved at the Cairnies, as at other places, to be equal to
our climate, — its other claims have been neglected or forgotten. It is found
in the Bhootan Nepal ranges, at an altitude of 8500°, attaining a height of
40 feet — a tree of the fairest proportions, pyramidal, much branched, witli a
brownish bark, apt to scale off. There has been another condition of this tree
observed, inhabiting still loflier elevations at tlie Fountains of Gumpty and
the river Buspa, between 31° and 31° 20' of north latitude, ranging from
11,000 to 16,000 of altitude, inclining more to a frutrescent habit, in which
form it is known as the Chtpressus Himalayemis of some : but in no obvious
respects is it to be distinguished from the true C. torulosa. While, like the
Pinus Gerardiana it affects the driest, rockiest, sunniest exposures, it also

General Notices. 373

flourishes in districts delugod by heavy rains, -where the P. Gcrardiana will
not grow. The C. torulosa is the most fragrant of trees, whether as a den-
izen of tlie forest it cheers the traveller with its balsamic odors wafted on
the breeze, or as a timber tree its wood is burned by the natives as a most
grateful incensf to their favorite goddess, Devi. It groA\'s and suits the cli-
mate of the Cairnies well. Surely this tree deserves more attention for ot-
namental planting.

2. C Lindleyi. — This new species, from between Angangnco and Tal-
puxahua, has proved itself hardy. It is the C. thurifera of Lindley, in B(A.
Reg., 1839, app. p. 64.

C. Macrocarpa, syn. C. Lambertiana, under which name it was originally
given to tlie world in compliment to Mr. Lambert, who first, in 1838, com-
municated seeds of it to the Horticultural Society of London. This noble
species is from Upper California, found to be perfectly hardy, ami attains
the height of 60 feet, with a circumference of 9 feet. It is one of the finest
of its race, not merely for its beautiful evergreen foliage of the brightest
grass-like verdure, but for its perfect hardihood, great size, and striking out,-
line^having, when old, much the general character, and wide, horizontal
spreading top of a full-grown Cedar of Lebanon. Hardy at tlie Cairnies —
a truly noble species.

JUiMPER/NE^A.

Of this section there are here two or tliree species, of which I can only
notice one, the

Junipervs excelsa. — This tree has a very extensive range of habitation.
It is found in the islands of the Grecian x\rchipelago — e. g., in tlie island of
Tassos, where it forms, with the Laricio, whole woods ; it is also found in
Tauria, Syria, Asia Minor, and in Arabia — sometimes in the Western Him-
nialaya, at an altitude of from 8000 to 12,000 feet above the Sutlej, where,
with Cupressus torulosa, it is the only tree. An undoubtedly hardy and fine
kind, tliough not exempt from the foetid odor that characterizes many of this
family.

TAXODINE^A.

1. Taxodium. — This section embraces the giants of the Coniferse.

Taxodlum distichum. — This is the Ahuahuete of the Mexican Plateau
and tlie Cyprus Chauve (Bald Cypress) of tlie southern states of North
America ; it is a magnificent tree. It is the deciduous Cypress of Chapul-
tepec, in Mexico — otherwise the " Swamp Cypress" — and occupies a moun-
tainous range of from 5200 to 7000 feet of altitude, stretching from tlie 38°
to 43° of N. lat. Mr. G. F. Ruxton, in his publis-hed Adventures in Mex-
ico and the Rocky Mountains, grog's eloquent in his notice of a grove of
this magnificent tree, as having been contemporaneous with, but as liaving
long outlived tlie Montezuma^ Palace. One of these he measured in 1846,
and found it to be 17 yards in girth, or 17 feet diameter, in tlie stem — at
once the most picturesque and nobly-proportioned tree it is possible to con-
ceive, rising into tlie sky a perfect pyramid of foliage, from whose branches
hang pendulous, graceful festoons of a mossy parasite. Baron A. Humboldt
is not less eloquent in its praise, describing it as attaining, in. the lofty plains

374 General Notices.

of INIexico, a lieight of 128 feet, with an enormous girtli — the diameter being
from 30 to nearly 40 feet (!) wlien measured near the ground. While in
Louisiana, at 43° north, lat., it descends to the marshy district, (Cypress
swamps) it ranges from 5700 to 7G70 feet above the sea, within the Mexican
tropics ; from the roots excrescences of a conical, round, or tabular form,
spring up and project 3, and even 5, feet above the ground. Perfectly
hardy at the Cairnies.

Taxodium sempervirens, syn. Sequoia Sempervirens (?), S. gigantea, End-
licher, 198. This is past all question the most stupendous tree of the whole
range of the Coniferse, yet recovered from their native wilds — attaining the
scarcely-conceivable height of 300 feet; although the Pinus Tiigona (Ra-
finesque) of the western slope of the Rocky Mountains, not yet introduced,
is of an equal height, Avith proportions otlierwise not less gigantic. It is in-
valuable as a timber tree. It is noticed in tlie Journal of the Horticidtural
Sodely, as being a native of the mountains of Santa Cruz, north of JMonte-
rey, in California. It is called by the American settlers, Redwood, or Bas-
tard Cedar. Even in dense forests it averages the height of 200 feet, with
a girth of from 18 to 24 feet in the stem, which shoots up straight as an
arrov/, and clear of branches to the height of 60 or 70 feet. One tree meas-
ured 55 feet in circumference, at 6 feet from the ground. The bark is very
thick. The timber is of a beautiful red color, like pencil-wood — fine close
grained, light, but brittle — and from its not being liable to warp in the sea-
soning, nor subject to the attacks of insects, it is well adapted for in and
out-door work. It is consequently an important article of export, and large
quantities are annually brought down to Santa Cruz for tliat purpose, which
are worth £8 per ton. Its hardiliood has now been satisfactorily tested.

CRVPTOMERIA.

Cryptomcrin Japonica. — This beautiful ally of the Cupressineoe was found
by Mr. Robert Fortune, in 1843, in the province of Kiang-nan, growing in
the country a few miles from the city of Shanghae, who describes it as tlie
most beautiful tree of the Coniferse, which is met with in China. He regards
it as not indigenous to tliat district, where the country is too low and flat
for its proper development. "And in tlie mountain districts, near Ningpo,
particularly at a celebrated temple named Tein-tung," he says, " some noble
specimens were met with, straiglit as larches, from 80 to 100 feet in height,
and clotlied with branches to tlic ground." They struck him as resembling
in appearance the Araucarias of Australia and Brazil, more than any other
tree he knew. From their appearing to be more at home on the hilly undu-
lating ground in the last named district, tlian at Shanghae, he suggests that
this fact be attended to in planting the tree in this country. Judging of the
climate there, he has no doubt of its proving hardy in Britain ; and from its
having withstood the severe winter of 1846-47, and proved itself to be as
hardy with us as the Deodar, he holds that fact as affording undoubted proof
of liis previous estimate. We have, in this species, he holds, a tree with
the striking habit of the above named Araucarias, than Avhich he regards
the present as still more graceful in form, Avith all the advantages of perfect
hardihood, a quality of which the others are devoid. He describes the tun-

General Notices. 375

ber as twisted in the grain, and as of the most durahlc nature. Polos made
of its timber, placed in front of the residences of the Mandarins, have been
found perfectly sound, after having stood there " for ages." Like the com-
mon Scots Fir, it thrives best in a loamy soil, and is propagated alike by
seeds and cuttings. The trees grow in China from 4 to 5 feet in diameter.
A beautiful specimen is noticed as having flowered in August, 1848, and
offered to seed freely at Milford nursery, near Godalniing, in Sussex. Pro-
fessor Lindley has confirmed the fact of the perfect hardihood of this tree in
England. It is a rapid growing species, and should, for so many valuable
properties, be extensively grown. The plants here and elsewhere in Scot-
land, are young, but pi'omising.

PODOCARPUS AND TORREYA.

Podocarpus nudfera syn. Ton-eya nucifera. — Though Endlicher lends the
weight of his high name in classing this as one of the two species noticed
by him as comprising the section " Torreya," it is now generally recognized
as belonging to the tribe " Podocarpus." It is a valuable tree in as far as
the question of hardiliood is involved, having withstood this bygone very
trying winter, and proved itself quite hardy in this high district. It is a na-
tive of the mountains of both islands of Nippon and Sikok, and cultivated
throughout the whole territory of Japan ; as the name implies it is a nut-
heuring species. It is known in China by the name of " Fi," or more com-
monly " Kaja." It is the Cai-yotaxus nucifera, of one authority, and the
Taxus nudfera, of some others.

Podocarpus Koraiana, Siebold. — This is an inhabitant of the island of
Corsea, in the Japanese seas, and is cultivated in the gardens of Japan; of
doubtful hardihood, but not yet sufficiently tested.

Podocarjms machrophylla syn. P. mahoya. — This species is likewise ob-
tained from Japan, an inhabitant of that country, up to the 40° of N. lat.,
where it attains a height of 40 to 50 feet. A dwarf variety of this tree is
cultivated in Chinese gardens. Though the high latitude assigned to it
might warrant the conclusion of its being hardy in this country, yet the by-
gone season has destroyed it at the Cairnies. It is certainly deserving of
another trial, for it is spoken of as a tree of fiiir proportions, having a lofty
spreading top, yielding timber which resists the attack of insects, and much
prized for cabinet Avork.

Podocarpim Harringioni is the last I shall notice of this section ; a new
species, whose merits are not sufficiently proved.

ARAUCARU..

Araucaria inhrkata. — This remarkable tree, which forms vast woods in
the south mountains of Chili, between the 35° and 50° of S. lat., is used by
the natives of that region, not only as a timber tree of great durability, but
as affording a useful esculent in its seeds. With us these ultimate objects
seem to be overlooked ; but who does not prize it, and give it the foremost
place as at once the most striking and ornamental of lawn trees. Armed
with its dense imbricated spiny foliage, it recalls to mind, and is sufficient
to have suggested, the formidable steel-clothed tree of the Isle of Serendib,

376 General Notices.

as related in the Arabian Nights, from whose top the magical bird of song
fell to be recovered. Perfectly hardy in the moor of the Cairnies.

Araucaria Braziliensis. — This beautiful species must, 1 fear, be struck
from the list of plants suitable to our climate. For although it is recorded
as having withstood, at some places in Britain, the frosts of two succeeding
winters, this is by no means the case with it generally. Here it is at best a
frame plant ; and those who M'ish -to keep, must so preserve it, at least as
long as it can be so managed.

I have now brought my observations on the Cairnies' Conifers to a close,
and to you, Mr. Editor, and to your numerous readers, J must apologise for
allowing my remarks to be so widely scattered over your pages. My great
aim has been to point out, so far as known, the claims of the respective
members of this most interesting family, wliether as respects their utility as
timber trees, their ornamental cJiai-acter, or their capacity of withstanding
our climate ; and however meagre the particulars communicated may ap-
pear, these have not been gatliered witliout considerable research, which
has been, in some instances, not only troublesome, but perplexing, in as far
as the same thing figures under so many names, with so many different au-
thorities. In such circumstances it is in vain to indulge the belief that I
have at all times escaped error. Allowances must be made, and those who
grow, must benefit the lovers of this tribe, by their observations. There are
many now in the field ; and the aptitude of all the species, at least of those
enumerated in these communications, to our climate, is now being tested
under many varied circumstances as regards soil, situation, and exposure,
on each of which particulars, future communications by others having supe-
rior opportunities may, with great profit to other growers, be contributed
through your columns. And since these remarks began to appear, it is
gratifying to obseiTO that gentlemen better qualified to the task, have been
giving valuable contributions to the world upon other collections. I would
instance, in particular, the notices by R. G. in the columns of tlie Garden-
ers' Chronicle, on the Conifers of Elvaston, whose only fault (the notices I
mean) is, that they are much too brief to satisfy public curiosity on that
most magnificent of all British collections. But it is not from the " gay
landscapes" of Elvaston Castle that the Scottish grower must gather infor-
mation as to what is suitable or unsuitable for his mountains or his moor-
land. Tlie experience of the Cairnies will be to him of higher value.
Without shelter, except from its own plantations, the Cairnies, as I have
obsei-ved before, is 600 feet above the sea, about 40 miles inland, and situ-
ated at 56° 30'' north lat., circmiistances carefully pointed out as of much
practical value to planters, in his own country, by the Editor of Hovey's
Magazine of Botany, an old established horticultural work, published at
Boston, U, S,, in whose pages these communications have, from time to
time, re-appeared. But it nmst be admitted that the last has been a most
trying winter, or ratlier spring, the recent sharp frosts having severely
checked the young shoots even of species of undoubted hardihood, not ex-
cepting Ahies Douglasi, and Cedrus Deodara. Loss and injury have in con.

General Notices. 377

sequence occurred in the following species, particularly among the long-
leaved, or sivainp pine, tribes, viz., among

Pinus Harlwegi.

P. Russelliancu

P. Montezumace.

P. Dcvoniana.

P. Macrophylla,

P. insignis — affected, but lives.

P. mitis — dead low down on the river bank ; but survives on the high
moor.

P. halepensis — dead.

P. Gerardiana has stood uninjured on the moor ; in other situations dead.

P. macrocoi-pa. — Last year's seedling planted on the moor and elevated
portion of the river bank ; healthy and vigorous.

P. Sabiniana of same age and similarly planted, have suffered.

P. perska suffered slightly.

Jlraucarin BrazUicnsis survived the winter, but went in tlie spring.

^. {mhricata — healthy and uninjured.

Mies Douglasi has suffered in the leading shoots; indeed, in the lower
grounds they are generally destroyed, but are in perfect health and vigor on
the high muir.

The whole of the Abies tribe, with the exception of ^. Morinda, are per-
fectly safe, including A. orientalis, A, carulea, A. nigra, A. Alba, A. Men-
ziesii.

P. Uncinata, on the other hand, has died on the muir, but lives on the
river bank.

Cedriis Deodara, where exposed to the blast, has suffered much ; where
perfectly sheltered, not so much.

Picea nobilis — only one plant has suffered ; the rest perfectly healthy.

P. Grandis, ^

P. Hudsoni,

P. Pinsapo, t ,i i i- • ^ ^ ■, ^ ■, i

p f^ 1^ I • r In all localities are perfectly strong and healthy.

P. Pichta, I

P. Pindroio, )

Picea Webbiana also uninjured, with leading buds, promisuig vigorous
health and growth.

Taxodium scmpervirens has suffered by losing some of the young woods-

Cnjptomeria Japonica has also suffered ; one small specimen killed.

In tlie advanced and very interesting Pinetum of Keillour, already refer-
red to as lying adjacent to the lands of Cairnies, the season has not passed
by witliout its ravages. The beautiful Pinus Harlwegi, tlie admiration of
every lover of the Coniferse, which hath withstood so many winters, and last
year promised so well, is destroyed. But the no less lovely P. monticola
has proved itself equal to the season, and is indubitably hardy.

Lest the enumeration of tlie above casualties and injuries may discourage
any intending planter of this family, it is proper to mention that, probably, a

VOL. XVI. NO. VIII. 48

378 Domestic Notices.

more trying spring season for such tilings, lias not occurred for many years,
and may not soon recur. Its devastations have spread among species of un-
questionable hardihood, e. g., the Abies Douglasi, Picea nobilis, and Cedrus
Deodara. But not the least remarkable fact to be gathered from these brief
statistics is, that the species which have suffered and died in the low lying
banks of the Almond, have stood uninjured on the high ranges of the Cair-
nies. This is a most encouraging fact for Highland proprietors.

For many of the seeds of these beautiful tribes, Mr. Patton has been in-
debted to ■ Godesden, Esq., Ervell Castle, Surrey, and other friends.

Mr. Patton has lately added to his collection, the Cupressus Govenicna, and
the following pines : — Pinus Btnthamiana, P. Fremontiana, P. radiata (? an-
otlier name for insignis,) and P. Skinneri ; the latter rare pine, being from
the mountains of Guatemala, has withstood the winter admirably.

I had hoped to have closed here Avith some brief notice of the Coniferse at
Glenalmond, the property of James Murray Patton, Esq., the brotlier of Mr.
Patton, of the Cairnies, as formerly intimated, but these remarks having ex-
tended so far, I must, I find, refer tliis notice to another publication. —
[Gard. Jour., 1850, pp. 266, 345.)

Art. II. Domestic JVotices.

American Pomological Congress. — In conformity with the resolu-
tions passed at the last session of this National Institution, its next meeting
will be held in the city of Cincinnati, Ohio, on the 11th, 12tli, and 13th days
of September next, A. D. 1850.

The Ohio State Board of Agriculture, and the Cincinnati Horticultural
Society wdl also hold their annual exhibitions at the same time and place,
and the latter have generously offered to provide for the accommodation of
the Congress.

All agricultural, horticultural, pomological, and kindred societies in tlie
United States and the Canadas, are hereby respectfully invited to send such
number of delegates as they may deem expedient.

In order to facilitate the objects of this association, to promote pomology
and the sciences upon which it depends, to collect and diffuse a knowledge
of researches and discoveries in this important department, delegates are re-
quested to bring with tliem specimens of the fruits of their respective dis-
tricts, with lists of the same, and also papers descriptive of their art of cul-
tivation, of diseases and insects injurious to vegetation, of remedies for the
same, and whatever will add to the interest and utility of the convention.

Packages of fruit not accompanied by its proprietor, may be addressed to
the care of Messrs. John F. Dau- & Co., Lower Market Street, Cincinnati,
O. These should be very distinctly marked " For tlie American Pomolog-
ical Congress."

All societies to be represented in this congress, will please forward cer-
tificates of tlie election of their several delegations, to J. B. Russell, Esq.,
Corresponding Secretary of the Cincinnati Horticultural Society. Delegates
will also report tliemselves at the Burnet House, on the morning of tlie lltli.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 379

where a committee will be in attendance to take charge of their fruits, and
from whence the congress will proceed to the hall assigned for its meet-
ings.— Marshall P. Wilder, President, July 4, 1850.

Art. III. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, June 29, 1850. An adjourned meeting of the Society was held
to-day, — tlie President in the chair.

No business of importance coming before the meeting, it was adjourned
two weeks, to July 13.

Exhibited. — Flowers : From Hovey & Co., a superb collection of roses,
containing more than 300 varieties, including several new ones. The thirty
blooms which were awarded the first premium, were as follows : — Provence,
Cristata, Cabbage, and Comtesse de Segur ; Aloss, Common Red ; French, Bi-
jou des Amateurs, Boula de Nantieul, Bizarre Marbree, Perle de Panachees,
Mazeppa, Kean, Walter Scott, Fanny Parrisot, Czar, Franklin, Blanchfleur,
Neron, Eclat de Rose ; Hybrid China, Capataine Sissolet, Ernest Ferray,
Chenedole, Charles Louis, Vandael, Victoire des Hybrides ; Hybrid Bour-
bon, Brennus, Coupe d'Hebe, Charles Duval, Las Cases, Paul Perras, Glo-
rieux ; Persiati Yellow ; also. Verbena St. Margaret, phloxes, &c.

From J. W. Brown, gardener to W. P. Winchester, Cabbage roses, from
a bush brought from the garden of the Alhambra, by Mr. W., in 1845.
From J. Breck &■ Co., Clematis Henderson?' and Alpina ; roses in great va-
riety, and other flowers. From H, Grundel, Princess Adelaide Moss, and
other roses, in variety. Flowers were also contributed by the President,
Winship &. Co., T. Needham, G. B. Draper, J. S. Jackson, A. Bowditch,
James Nugent, P. Barnes, W. Kenrick, J. A. Kenrick, Miss Russell, and
others.

PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED.

Hardy Roses, Class L — For the best 30 distinct varieties, to Hovey
& Co., #8.

For the second best, to H. Grundel, $6.

For the third best, to Breck & Co., $4.

For the best display, to Hovey &- Co., $3.
Class XL — For the best 12 distinct varieties, to Hovey &. Co., $5.

For the second best, to Hovey & Co., $3.
■ For the third best, to Breck & Co., $2.

Perpetual Roses. Class IH. — For the best 10 distinct varieties, to H.
Grundel, $5.

For the second best, to Hovey & Co., $4.

For the best display, to Hovey & Co., $i3.
Gratuities. — To Breck & Co., for cut flowers, ^3.

To P. Barnes, for the same, f2.

To J. Nugent, for the same, #1.

To A. Bowditch, for the same, $1.

3S0 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

To Miss Kenrick, for the same, $\.

To H. Grundel, for display of Moss roses, $3.

To Miss Russell, for basket of flowers, $1.
Fruits. — From S. Walker, fine Seedling straivberries. From E. Barne,
very fine Black Hamburgh and Muscat of Alexandria grapes. From M. P.
Wilder, Belle d'Orleans cherries, and Gushing strawberries. From M. H,
Simpson, 2 baskets Hovey's Seedling strawberries. From S- Sweetser,.
Hovey's Seedling strawberries. From J. Fay, 3 baskets Fay's Seedling
strawbemes. From Jos. Richardson, 1 basket fine Hovey'"s Seedling and
Boston Pine, and Cambridge strawberries. From O. Johnson, 1 large bas-
ket Hovey's Seedling strawberries. From W. C. Strong, Black Hamburgh
grapes. From James Nugent, Black Hamburgh grapes and White Tarta-
rian cherries. From T. Needham, fine Cannon Hall Miiscat, Wilmot's
Black Hamburgh, and other sorts or" grapes. From J. F. Allen, thirty-three
kinds of grapes, among them Austrian Muscat, White Bual, De CandoUe,
Deccan's Superb, &c.; also, Violet Hatif, Downton, and other nectarines,
and Late Crawford, Grosse Mignonne, Tippecanoe, and other peaches.

Jidy 6. Exhibited. — Flowers: From J. Breck & Co., nine var. Prai-
rie roses, including J«ne, Eva Corinne, Rannnculiflora, &.c. ; also. Clem-
atis Hendersonii, Shilling?', ru,bra and alpiiia, ajid other floivers. From
Hovey & Co., ten varieties of Prairie roses, inclading Mrs. Hovey, Anne
Marie, Pride of Washington, &c. ; also, phloxes, pinks, &c. Flowers were
also sent by the President of the Society, P. Barnes, E, Wiaslow, Winship
& Co., J. Hovey, James Nugent, W. Kenrick, Miss Kenrick, and others.

PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED.

Prairie Roses. — For tlie best display of not less than 6 var., to Breck
& Co., $5.
For the second best, to Hovey & Co., $4.
For the third best, to Winship & Co., $3.

Gratuities. — To Breck & Co., Hovey & Co., P. Barnes, J. Nugent,
Winship &- Co., Miss Kenrick, Miss Russell, and E. Winslow, for cut flow-
ers, $1 each.

Fruits. — From O. Johnson, superior Hovey's Seedling, Boston Pine, and
Jenney's Seedling strawberries. From Hovey & Co., 2 large baskets supe-
rior Hovey's Seedling, and 1 of Boston Pine strawberries. From W. P. Jen-
ney, fine Jenney's Seedling strawberries. From J. Richardson, fi,ne Rich-
ardson's Late strawberries. From E. Cleaves, Hovey's Seedling strawber-
ries. From E. Burns, May Duke cherries. From George Walsh, new
large Black Bigarreau cherries, fine. From J. Nugent, May Dulve cher-
ries, and B. Hamburgh grapes. From J. F. Allen, six kinds of grapes, fine
peaches and nectarines. From J. Washburn, Bigarreau de Mezel cherries,
and two other sorts. From E. Burns, very fine Muscat of Alexandria and
Black Hamburgh grapes. From S. Davis, Seedling cherries. From L. C.
Eaton, Providence, twenty-six varieties of strawberries, which were tested by
the committee, who made the following report, which we copy : —

" Gen. Jaquiemont, size below medium, flavor very fine, quality first rate ;
Gen. Jacquiemont of the French, probably tlie same as the preceding ;

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 381

Scarlet Melting', inferior quality ; Rhode Island Hudson Bay, small, of fair
quality ; Cincinnati, do. do., small, acid ; New York,' do. do., medium size,
deficient in flavor; Dundee, small, from its firm flesh appears to be well
suited to carriage ; Crimson Cone, small, inferior ; Myatt's Eliza ; Mottier's
Seedling, indifferent ; Columbia, a good strawberry, of medium size and pe-
culiar flavor ; Myatt's Prolific, of large size, coxcomb shape, good quality ;
Black Prince, medium size, dark color, — wants character, — poor ; Scioto, of
medium size, and quality ; Princess Alice Maud (?) ; Profusion ; Jenney's
Seedling; Princess Royal, (French); Duke of Kent, bears a strong resem-
blance to Dundee ; Myatt's Deptford Pine ; Taylor's Seedling, small, indif-
ferent ; Burr's New Pine ; Cattrugh's Seedling, No. 8, (English) no flower,
of excellent shape ; Cattrugh's Seedling, No. 0, of a hautbois flower ; Ohio
Mammoth; Old Pine, (Burr's); Rural Hudson, a good strawberry, of a large
size, flesli firm, color light red.

Juhj 13. An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, — Presi-
dent Walker in the chair.

A communication, accompanied with a present, was received from Mon-
sieur Tougard, Chevalier of the Legion of Honor, President of Central
Society of Horticulture of the Lower Seine, at Rouen.

Voted, on motion of Mr. Richards, that the thanks of this society be pre-
sented to Mons. Tougard, for his valuable present, and that the correspond-
ing secretary communicate the same.

Voted, on motion, tliat further time be granted to tlie committee appointed
to select delegates to attend the Pomological Convention, to be held in'Cin-
cinnati, in September next.

The corresponding secretary read two letters received from Dr. J. Kini-
cott, of the Grove, Illinois. Adjourned two Aveeks, to July 20.

Exhibited. — Flowers : From Hovey & Co., 15 varieties of phloxes,
among which were Annais, Triumphator, Camille, Cromwell, Arsinoe, Goethe,
Beppo, Rosetta, &c. ; also, 12 varieties Prairie roses, Calystegia pubes-
cens, and verbenas St. Margaret, Defiance and Iphigene. From J. Breck
& Co., Clematis florida and SieboldiY, Z)elphinium Breckii, Barlow;', &c.,
and other flowers. From Jas. Jackson, cut flowers of the new and pretty
Zauschneri'o californica. Cut floAvers, bouquets, &c., from Winship & Co.,
J. Nugent, P. Barnes, B. E. Cotting, E. Winslow, A. Bowditcli, E. Burns,
J. Hovey, Miss Barnes, Miss Kenrick, and others.

Fruits. — From O. Johnson, fine specimens of the following cherries : —
Black Eagle, Mottled Bigarreau, Florence, Black Tartarian, and Napoleon
Bigarreau ; also, Jenney's Seedling strawberries. From J. F. Allen, grapes,
peaches, and nectarines. From T. Needham, Cannon Hall Muscat, and
other grapes. From J. S. Sleeper, Seedling cherries. From A. Parker,
White Bigarreau cherries, and fine gooseberries. From C. Carrutli, goose-
berries. From J. Gordon, Franconia raspberries.

From Hovey & Co., Wilmot's Black Hamburgh, No. IG, grapes. From
E. Burns, fine Black Hamburgh and Muscat of Alexandria grapes. From
Jos. Richardson, Richardson's Late strawberries. From Geo. Walsh, fine
new large Black Bigarreau cherries. From C. Newhall, Knevct's Giant
raspberries. From K. Bailey, Red and White raspberries.

382 MassacJiusetls Horticultural Society.

July 20. Exhibited. — Flowers : The exhibition of carnations and pico-
tees, and hollyhocks, for premium, took place to-day, and we regret to state,
that there were very few competitors. The principal display of the former
was made by Messrs. Hovey & Co., who had about 40 varieties, many of
them seedlings, of great beauty. The ten ivinning flowers were as follows:
— Wilson's William IV, Duke of Newcastle, (picotee,) Barker's Queen,
Squire Clark, Youell's Heroine, (picotee,) Beauty of Cambridge, (picotee,)
Crask's Queen Victoria, (picotee,) Kinfane Hero, Lady Peel, (picotee,) and
a Seedling ; Messrs. H. & Co. also sent a collection of hollyhocks. From
J. Breck & Co., hollyhocks, in variety, and other flowers. From James
Nugent, Lilium speciosum rubrum, Torenm asiatica, and other flowers.
Flowers and bouquets from the President, A. Bowditch, J. Hovey, W. Ken-
rick, Dr. W. F. Channing, (who sent a double flower of Azalea viscosa,
found Avild ;) L. Davenport, P. Barnes, I. Spear, E, M. Richards, Winship
& Co., Miss Barnes, and others.

PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED.

Carnations and Picotees. — For the best ten flowers, to Hovey &
Co., $5.
For the second best, to Hovey & Co., ^4.
For the best display, to Hovey & Co., $3.
Hollyhocks. — For the best display, to Hovey &- Co., $5.

For the second best, to Breck & Co., $4.
Gratuities. — To Jas. Nugent, for carnations, &c., $'2.

To Breck & Co., Winship & Co., L. Davenport, P. Barnes, A. Bow-
ditch, Miss Russell, J. Hovey, and Jas. Nugent, for cut flowers,
each $1.
Fruits. — From W. Young, gardener to Mrs. F. B. Durfee, Fall River,
very beautiful specimens of Victoria, Black Hamburgh, and West St. Pe-
ter's grapes. From Hovey & Co., Wilmot's B. Hamburgh and other grapes ;
also, Early York peaches, Franconia raspberries, and Seedling cherries, very
large. From J. F. Allen, peaches. Sweet Montmorency cherries, Franco-
nia raspberries, and Prince Albert grapes, not fully ripe or colored. From
E. F. King, handsome peaches. From O. Jolmson, Fastolff, Knevet's Giant,
and Franconia raspberries, fine. From Jos. Lovett, currants, and splendid
Knevet's Giant raspberries.

Red and White Dutch currants were sent by A. Parker, and C. E. Grant.
Raspberries as follows : — C. Newhall, Knevet's Giant, fine ; E. Bemis, Fas-
tolff"; J. Richardson, Franconia ; L. B. Comins, Franconia. From Messrs.
S. &,. G. Hyde, Seedling clierries. From H. Vandine, Elkhorn cherries.
From G. Merriam, Downer cherries. From G. Walsh, cherries. From J.
Nugent, grapes. From J. Hovey, Whitesmith gooseberries. From I. Fay,
Amire Joannet pears.

Jidi/ 20. An adjourned meeting of tlie Society was held this day, —
President Walker in the chair.

A communication was received from the New York State Agricultural
Societ}', for which tlie thanks of tlie Society Avere voted.

Horiiculhiral Operations for August. 383

A communication was also received from the Chester County Horticul-
tural Society, for which the thanks of tlie Society were voted.

John R. Bradley, Boston, Horatio Chickering, Dedham, and Geo. Leland,
Waltham, were elected members. Adjourned two weeks, to August 3.

Exhibited. — Flowers : — From the President of the Society, Hovey &
Co., Brcck & Co., P. Barnes, A. Bowditch, L. Davenport, J. Nugent, W. E.
Carter, Winship & Co., W. Kenrick, Miss Kenrick, J. Hovey and others.

Gratuities awarded. — To Breck & Co., for cut flowers, $2.

To P. Barnes, J. Nugent, A. Bowditch, L. Davenport, W. E. Carter,
Winship &. Co., J. Hovey, Miss Russell, Miss Barnes, and Miss Ken-
rick, for cut flowers, each §1.

Fruits. — From Hovey & Co., Wilmot's Black Hamburgh No. 16, and
four otlier sorts of grapes ; four kinds of peaches, Elruge nectarines, fine
White Dutch and Victoria currants, and Black Bigarreau of Savoy cher-
ries. From O. Johnson, St. Michael figs, and White and Red Dutch cur-
rants. White and Red Dutch currants from A. D. Williams & Son. From
A. Parker, Victoria currants. From C. Newhall, Knevet's Giant raspber-
ries, and Vermash nectarines. From Geo. Wilson, fine White Dutch and
Cherry currants. From E. F. King, peaches. From Jos. Lovett, Seedling-
currants, and fine Fastolff" raspberries. From A. D. Weld, fine currants and
raspberries. From M. U.. Simpson, Golden Chasselas grapes. From C. E.
Grant, Oiiio Ever-bearing raspbemes. . From C. Brines, fine gooseberries.
From J. Hovey, gooseberries. Mazzard cherries from S. Dike,

AWARD OF PREMIUMS FOR FRUITS.

Cherries. — For the best specimens, (Black Tartarian,) to O. Johnson, fG.
For the second best, (New large Black Bigarreau,) to Geo. Walsh, ^4.
Grapes. — For the best specimens, grown under glass, before the first
Saturday in July, to E. Burns, $10.
For tlie second best, to T. Needham, $7.
Peaches. — For the best twelve specimens, grown under glass, before the
first Saturday in July, to J. F. Allen, $.(J.
For the second best, to O. Johnson, $4.
Strawberries. — For the best specimens, (Hovcy's Seedling,) to O. John-
son, $6.
For the second best, (Hovey's Seedling,) to Jos. Richardson, $4.
For the third best, to Hovey & Co., for the same variety, l^i.
To W. H. Jenney, a gratuity of ^'4, for fine specimens of Jenney's
Seedlinir.

HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS

FOR august.

fruit department.
Grape Vines, in tlie greenhouse or vinery, will now be approaching ma-
turity, and the earlier sorts will be ripe by the 20th of the month, and less

384 Horticultural Operations for August.

attention will now be required tlian heretofore ; as the berries get well col-
ored the watering of tlie house should be done less frequently, until it is
discontinued altogether; abundance of air should be given, and in very
mild niglits, the sashes may be left open for a slight ventilation ; it will have
a tendency to give a better color ; continue to stop the laterals as they re-
quire it. New vineries, planted this year, should be kept rather close, to
encourage a free growtli, and should be freely syringed. Vines in cold-
houses, should now be carefully tended, as neglect might be the cause of
mildew, which frequently steals in when the cultivator least thinks of it.
Keep the laterals stopped in, and damp down the walks, morning, noon, and
night. Vines in pots should have an abundant supply of water or liquid
manure. Hardy grapes should now have attention ; prune off all superfluous
wood, and stop the fruit-bearing laterals as often as they break anew.

Strawberry Beds should now be put in order for making new runners,
by digging in the old roots and allowing tlie young plants to occupy their
places. New beds may be successfully made the last of the month.

Raspberry Plantations should be looked after when the fruit is gath-
ered ; if the old canes are then cut down, it Avill encourage the growth of
the young suckers.

Fig Trees in pots, now ripening tlieir second crop, should be watered
freely witli liquid manure or guano.

Pear, Apple, and other Fruit Trees, should now be summer pruned,
as we have repeatedly advised ; root-pruning may now be successfully per-
formed, as will be seen by an article on a previous page.

flower department.

Dahlias should be closely watched ; keep off all suckers which con-
stantly spring up ; prune off some of the laterals, mulch the ground with old
manure or short grass, and if dry, give the roots a good drenching with
water, once in ten days ; see tliat the shoots are securely tied to the stakes.

White Lilies may be taken up this month.

Carnations and Picotees should now be carefully layered, selecting
only tlie best ripened shoots.

Pansies should now be layered, or propagated from cuttings, for new
beds, for blooming in spring.

Pelargoniums, headed in last month, should now be repotted, reducing
the ball, and sheltering them from the hot sun a few days, until well rooted.

Camellias should now be repotted, if not already done ; attend to the
saving of seeds, where they have been impregnated ; grafting may now be
commenced.

Chrysanthemums may now be shifted into larger pots ; fine plants may
now be raised by laying the tops of the shoots into small pots.

Verbenas for early Avinter blooming, should now be propagated from
cuttings.

Heliotropes for winter flowering, should now be shifted into larger
pots, and headed in.

OxALis BowiEi AND HiRTA, should uow be potted.

Callas should now be repotted, and more liberally watered.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTURE-

SEPTEMBER, 1850.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. 1. Polmaise Method of Heating GreenJiouses and
Hothouses, compared ivith Hotwater, scientifically and
practically considered. By R. B. Leuchars.

In endeavoring to draw a comparison between the two
methods of heating above mentioned, it will be necessary
to consider briefly the conditions which constitute the pri-
mary laws of heat, and to which all methods of artificial
heating are subject.

Heated bodies give off their caloric by two distinct modes,
radiation and conduction ; these are governed by different
laws, but the rate of cooling by both modes increases con-
siderably in proportion as the heated body is of greater or
less temperature above the surrounding medium. This
variation was long supposed to be exactly proportional to
the simple ratio of the excess of heat, that is to say, suppos-
ing any given quantity of heat evolved in a certain time, at
a specified difference of temperature, at double the difference,,
twice the quantity of heat would be given off in the same-
time. This law was originally proposed by Newton in his-
Principia, and although rejected as erroneous by some philoso-
phers it was adopted by many others, and was usually con-
sidered accurate until the elaborate experiments of Petit and
Dulong proved that, though approximately correct for low
temperatures, it becomes exceedingly inaccurate at the higher
degrees of heat.

The cooling of any heated body, of whatever material, is

VOL. XVI. ^NO. IX. 49

386 Polmaise Method of Heati?ig Gree7iIiouses, S^c.

evidently the effects of radiation and conduction. The air,
however, as a body, has no conductive power, at least it
may be ranked as the worst conductor with which we are
acquainted. The conductive power it possesses, as an atomic
mass, is principally owing to the extreme mobility of its par-
ticles, for when confined in such a manner as to prevent its
freedom of motion, it will not conduct heat, and is then a
most useful medium of non-conduction.

The cooling of a body by the conduction of the air, i. e.
by the mobility of its atoms, is somewhat different from the
effect of radiation, that while the ratio of loss by conduction
continues the same, for the same excess of temperature,
whatever be the absolute temperatures of the air and heated
bod}^, radiation increases in velocity for like excess of tem-
perature, when the absolute temperatures of the air and
heated body increase.

Hence it is evident that, while the conductive power of
Polmaise drains, or channels of conduction, does not increase
in proportion to the increase of generated heat, the radiating
power of hotwater pipes, or other media of radiation, in-
creases in proportion to the increase of conducted heat, and
that the air of a hothouse increases in proportion to the
absolute temperature of the medium of radiation.

The following table shows the law of cooling by radia-
tion for the same body at different temperatures, which will
render this argument clearer to those who have not atten-
tively studied the subject :

Excess of temper-

Velocity of cooling when the

surrounding medium is at the undermentioned

ature of the ther-

temperatures.

mometer.

0°

20°

40°

60°

80°

220°

8.81

10.41

11.98

11.64

200°

7.40

8.56

10.01

9.55

180°

6.10

7.04

8.20

7.68

160°

4.89

5.67

6.61

6.14

6.74

140°

3.88

4.75

5.32

4.84

4.01

120°

3.20

3.56

4.15

3.68

3.00

100°

2.30

2.74

3.16

2.29

2.20

The fact that the ratio of cooling of those bodies that
radiate heat, is more rapid at low temperatures and less

Polmaise Method of Heating Greenhouses, Sfc. 387

rapid at high temperatures, than those bodies which radiate
most, is one of the most remarkable of the laws of cooling,
and has led many practical men into serious mistakes, in
estimating the merits of hot-air heating.

The atomic particles of atmospheric air, being separated
and rarefied by the application of a high temperature, it is
plain that this air must be changed in its properties, and this
is practically correct.

Atmospheric air in passing into a house at a high temper-
ature, over a highly heated surface, not only loses its water ;
but the small particles of organic matter, which it holds in
suspension, are decomposed by the heat, and resolved into
various elementary gases. This is one of the causes of the
unpleasant odor which invariably results from this method
of heating, as in common stoves, Polmaise furnaces, &c. ;
but, in addition to this, the aqueous vapor of the atmos-
phere is almost entirely decomposed, the oxygen entering
into combmation with the iron wherever it can act upon it,
and the contained hydrogen, now set free, mixes with the
air. The changes which have thus taken place renders the
atmosphere deleterious in an extraordinary degree, both to
animal and vegetable life.

The mixture of the hydrogen, thus disengaged, is even
more injurious to the plants than the alteration which has
taken place in the hygrometric condition of the atmosphere,
as this will be for some time supplied by the water contained
in their tissue, until it be restored by absorption or evapora-
tion, which is easily effected.

The particles of animal and vegetable matter, as I have
said, are rapidly decomposed by the heat, and they then
produce extraneous gases, consisting of sulphuretted, phos-
phoretted and carburetted hydrogen, which, in the state in
which they then exist, are highly inimical to every species
of vegetable life.

The quantity of hydrogen eliminated by the decomposi-
tion of water is 1325 cubic inches for every cubic inch of
water that is decomposed. It is, therefore, easy to account
for the effects produced on vegetation by hot-air currents, in

388 Polmaise Method of Heating Greenhouses, Sec.

consequence of the air, when thus artificially dried, abstract-
ing too much moisture from the leaves. It is also clear that
the injury must increase in proportion to the length of time
the apparatus continues in use, {i. e. without intermission
and change of the internal atmospheric volume by the plants
being compelled to inhale these extraneous gases,) and in no
other way can the purity of the internal volume be restored.

The extreme dryness of the atmosphere, after its hygro-
metric condition has been changed, is, in the experience of
every one, productive of the very worst consequences to
growing plants. To remedy this condition of things troughs
of water are placed over the heating surface, so as to moisten
the atmosphere by evaporation. The evil is in some de-
gree mitigated, so far as mere moisture goes, but only in the
upper regions of the house, for the rarefied air immediately
carries the water it holds in suspension directly upwards, so
that the lower portions of the atmosphere are not in the
slightest degree affected by it.

Let us suppose, however, that the whole atmosphere has
its equivalent of water restored, (which it has not,) we have
not yet got rid of the evil, for we are just supplying the heated
air with more moisture to decompose, and hence the quantity
of extraneous gases must continue to increase, and also their
effects, so long as the evaporation and decomposition con-
tinue. Unless, therefore, some method be devised for recom-
bining these gases with other bodies, or neutralizing them
by the same means, the effects of the decomposition of
water by the heated air still remain, notwithstanding the
evaporation of the same element by the same agent of de-
composition.

The heating by means of brick flues, is, in some respects,
similar to the effects produced by currents of hot air ; but
this is only when the flues are overheated, which is or ought
to be quite unnecessary. In the latter case the unwholsome
smell is also produced by the decomposition of the organic
matter in the atmosphere, and probably, in some instances,
of a small portion of sublimated sulphur from the bricks as
well as by the escape of various gases through the joints or

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Cherries. 389

accidental fissures of the flues. These contingent causes
may, however, be in a great measure avoided by good work-
manship and material. The hygrometric vapors of the at-
mosphere are not decomposed by this system of heating as
by a hot-air furnace, because, when the flues are warmed to
a common temperature, the heat is perfectly pure, and the
materials of which the flues are built, having but little
affinity for oxygen, they are consequently more healthy
than hot-air stoves.
Boston, August, 1850.

( To be continued. )

Art. II. Descriptions and Engravings of Select Varieties
of Cherries. By the Editor.

We now continue our descriptions of the diff'erent varie-
ties of cherries, after the lapse of a year, in consequence of
the entire failure of the crop in the vicinity of Boston, in
1849. Our last article appeared in 1848, (Vol. XIV, p. 385,)
when we gave an account of three varieties, in addition to
three in the previous volume, (1847.) In the present vol-
ume we hope to add several to the list, and another season
to complete the entire number of really valuable cherries
worthy of cultivation.

7. Elton. Hort. Soc. Catalogue, 3d Ed. 1842.

It is somewhat remarkable, that a cherry possessing so
many superior qualities as the Elton, [fig- 21,) and intro-
duced into our gardens so long ago, should yet be so little
known or disseminated. It was one of the seedlings of the
late Mr. Knight, president of the London Horticultural So-
ciety, raised in 1806, and scions of it were forwarded to the
Hon. John Lowell as early as 1823 ; yet it is, comparatively
speaking, a new cherry. The fruit is rarely, if ever, seen
in our markets, and it is seldom that it is shown at the
exhibitions of our horticultural societies. Varieties unwor-

390 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Cherries.

thy of cultivation, compared with this, have been very re-
cently brought to notice, and have been allowed to fill up
the collection of the amateur, to the neglect of the Elton
and other sorts of far greater excel-
lence. We trust our descriptions of this
and other equally meritorious kinds,
long introduced but long neglected,
will make them better known, and
much more extensively cultivated.

The Elton is one of the largest of
cherries, long heart-shaped in form,
with a pale amber skin, and bright red
cheek. The tree is a very vigorous
grower, with a spreading and some-
what pendent habit, and the leaves
are conspicuously large and handsome.
The fruit is borne in pairs on rather
long stems.

According to the Pomological Mag-
Fig. n. The Elton. azine, (Vol. II, p. 92,) where the El-
ton is beautifully figured, this variety was raised by Mr.
Knight from a seed of the Graffion or Ambree cherry,
(known as the old Bigarreau,) which had been fecundated
by the pollen of the White Heart. Its merits, says the same
work, " can scarcely be too highly spoken of. In flavor it
is by many considered the most delicious of cherries." This
estimate of its qualities is fully maintained after long culti-
vation in our climate, and it must be considered as one of
the most valuable varieties, indispensable in every good col-
lection.

The tree is of a vigorous and upright habit, making
rather long annual shoots, and forming a regular but open
head.

Size, larg€, about one inch long, and seven eighths of an
inch in diameter : Form, oblong heart-shaped, broad at the
base, narrowing to the point, and somewhat flattened : Skin,
clear yellowish amber, deeply tinged with pale red on the
sunny side : Stem, rather long, about two inches, somewhat

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Cherries. 391

slender, and inserted in a small, moderately deep cavity:
Flesh, pale amber, tender, juicy, rich, sweet, and delicious r
Stone, ovate, medium size. Ripe about the middle of June.

8. Early Purple Guigne. Hort. Soc. Cat,, 3d Ed. 1842,
Early Purple Griotte. Hort. Soc. CaU, 3d, 1842.

This fine early cherry, {fg. 22,) though introduced some
years ago, and beautifully figured and accurately described
in the Transactions of the London Horticultural Society
in 1S30, (Vol. YIII,) where Mr. Thompson
has given a flattering account of its merits,
is scarcely known to American cultivators
only through the medium of pomological
works. We have had it in our collection
eight or ten years, the last three or four
of which it has produced a small crop ;
but from its earliness, being nearly ripe
before any others begin to color, except
the May Bigarreau, the robins each suc-
cessive year gathered what few there
were. This year the crop was more
abundant, and the branches clothed with
fruit, and being determined to see a va-
riety which had been so highly eulogized,
we covered up a few limbs, and thus suc-
ceeded in securing specimens which quite
astonished us. They were not only of pig. 227~E^iy Purple
large size, but they ripened earlier than "'^"^"

the May Bigarreau, were considerably larger, and were even
richer than that fine sort. It possesses all the qualities of a
good cherry, and we can commend it as worthy of a place
in every choice collection.

The tree is not a very vigorous grower, nor of so good a
habit as some other sorts. The branches are slightly pen-
dent, and the head somewhat loose and irregular. It is, how-
ever, an abundant bearer.

Size, medium, about three quarters of an inch long, and
seven eighths of an inch in diameter : Form, roundish heart-

392 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Cherries.

shaped, broad at the base, narrowing to the apex, with an
indistinct suture, and a large indented point : Skin, dark red,
becoming of a rich glossy purplish black when fully ripe :
Stem, very long, about two inches in length, slender, and
moderately inserted in a rather shallow cavity : Flesh, deep
purplish red, tender, juicy, rich, sweet and excellent : Stone,
medium size, roundish. Ripe the last of May and begin-
ning of June.

9. Werder's Early Black Heart. Hort. Soc. Catalogue,
3d Ed. 1842.

Werdersche Fruhe Schwarze Herzkirsche. Hort. Soc. Cat., 3d Ed. 1842.
Werder's Early Black {Jig. 23,) is a most excellent cherry,

somewhat resembling the old Black Heart, but a richer fruit.

It is yet quite rare in collections, but when it becomes better
known it will be eagerly sought after by
all who desire a complete assortment of
the finest cherries. The tree is a vigor-
ous grower, making a fine head, and the
fruit appears less liable to crack from
heavy rains than many other sorts. It
comes in just after the Early Purple
Guigne, and keeps up the succession until
the Tartarian and others of the same sea-
son are ripe.

Size, medium, about three quarters of
an inch long and seven eighths of an
inch in diameter : Form, roundish heart-
shaped, slightly uneven on the surface,
with a shallow suture, and little flattened

Fjv. 23. Werder's Early qx \\\e Qpoex'. Skin, Aox^ purplish red, be-

Black Heart. ^ ^ ' , J. „

commg of a shinmg black when fully
mature : Stem, medium length, about one and three quarters
of an inch long, rather slender, and inserted in a shallow
cavity : Flesh, dark purplish red, tender, juicy, rich, sweet
and delicious : Stone, rather small, roundish ovate. Ripe
about the middle of June.

Remarks on Dwarfing Fruit Trees. 393

Art. III. Remarks on Dwarfing Fruit Trees. By R. Er-
RiNGTON. With Remarks. By the Editor.

No subject, at the present time, is more generally interest-
ing to cultivators of fruit, than the growth and management
of dwarf trees. For all the purposes of garden culture,
they are rapidly taking the place of standards, which, with
few exceptions, do not come into bearing for a long period ;
and occupying much space, shading a great part of the
ground with their large heads, exposed to injury from high
winds, and, withal, rendering the gathering of the fruit labo-
rious and troublesome, they are much better adapted for
orchards than for the neat garden of the amateur.

To derive, however, all the great advantages from dwarf
trees, which they are capable of affording, requires some
little knowledge of their management. True, they will
thrive and produce fruit under very ordinary culture ; but
from the great variety of soils and aspects where trees are
planted, it is necessary that they should have varied treat-
ment according to the conditions in which they are placed.

In our last number we presented our readers with an ex-
cellent article on root-pruning, the object of which practice
is to accomplish early bearing on trees planted in rich deep
or trenched soils, where they run too much to wood. Under
such conditions of vigor the trees, unless so treated, become
one dense mass of branches and shoots, running out of the
reach of the cultivator, producing no fruit, and, eventually,
no better than standard trees. Root-pruning, in such cases,
is the only remedy to keep them within bounds ; cultivators
and amateurs, therefore, who object to the labor of root-
pruning, should reject trenched ground and plant on rather
thin soils, where the roots can be " fed up" and receive their
nourishment from the surface, in the annual dressings of
manure and the " mulchings" from the stable. Mr. Erring-
ton's remarks on this head are particularly valuable, and
those who possess only shallow soils, and who may have
been told that their land was not adapted to the pear, should

VOL. XVI. NO. IX. 50

394 Remarks on Dwarfing Fruit Trees.

feel encouraged by his timely advice, and be induced to go
on and plant, confident of success in the end.

It is unnecessary for us to follow the author through his
interesting paper. His advice is excellent, and we trust it
will have the good effect of greatly increasing the cultiva-
tion of dwarf trees : —

In former days it was the custom to attempt the dwarfing of
fruit trees, chiefly in order to render them more ornamental, or
to produce grotesque forms, to which the vulgar imparted im-
aginary characteristics, on account of their mere eccentricity.

Now, however, it has become absolutely necessary to sys-
tematize a dwarfing system for other purposes. In the first
place, the immense increase in fruits of superior character, —
which in many parts of the kingdom deserve a wall, — has
been so great, that since walls could by no possibility be
found for them, the inventive faculties of horticulturists
have been taxed severely, in order to adopt some mode of
culture which shall guarantee to them an amount of atmos-
pheric heat superior to that of the ordinary standard or
orchard tree.

It has, moreover, been proved beyond all question, that a
dwarfing system, Avhen properly carried out, is highly con-
ducive to precocity in point of fructification ; it consequently
leads to great economy of space, — a matter of the very
highest import to the cultivators of small gardens in the
vicinity of our busy towns, many of whom are amongst the
most ardent of our cultivators.

Again, it is of the utmost importance to persons thus situ-
ated, so to arrange their limited gardens, that a full amount
of vegetable produce may not be lost sight of. This, it is
well known, is accomplished in the most perfect way, by a
dwarfing system in fruits ; whereas, by the old plan of en-
couraging standards, or coarse overgrown trees, few vegeta-
bles were brought to- that perfection of which they are
capable ; indeed, I have frequently known gardens so smoth-
ered, that scarcely a well-grown cabbage could be obtained
in a perfect state. Lettuces, peas, and indeed most other

Remarks on Dwarfing Fruit Trees. 395

culinary crops, will be found " drawn," as it is termed, by
practical men ; and not only deteriorated in size, but in
flavor and nutritious qualities.

There has in later years been a great increase in those
interesting little suburban plots, termed amateurs' gardens ; a
great many of these are either wrought in part by the pro-
prietor himself, or at least under his superintendence. Many
of the owners of such gardens are occupied most of the
day in matters of trade ; and the pleasures of horticulture
are of course enjoyed with a peculiar zest when a leisure
moment occurs. To such, a dwarfing system of fruit-culture
is invaluable, combining, as it does, the advantages before
enumerated, together with little matters of manipulation of
a light character, and exceedingly interesting to those who
seek relief to the mind from the dull mechanical tedium of
commercial affairs.

Such gardens, it is well known, are for the most part se-
verely limited as to space ; yet, by a systematic procedure in
regard to fruits, it is astonishing what a collection may be
compressed within the limits of one of these recreative
homesteads ; in fact, a very excellent miniature collection
within an enclosure of a quarter of an acre.

" Little things are great to little men," according to the
old saying ; and these miniature matters, although it may be
of a trivial character in the estimation of those who do
things by wholesale, yet are conducive to the health and
happiness of thousands, producing their daily quota to the
gastronomic delights of the household, and feelings of a
much higher character to those who " look through nature
up to nature's God."

The ornamental character, too, of a system of dwarfed
fruits, although a matter certainly second in importance to
their utility, is not to be lost sight of entirely.

A little garden possessing a miniature collection of fruits
and well-grown vegetables is indeed a multum-in-pai'vo
affair ; it shows forth at a single glance the triumph which
the collective experience of many, very many, years, aided
by the lights of science, has at last accomplished, and fur-

396 Remarks on Dwarfing Fruit Trees. '

nishes a hint even to our brethren of the plough, of what
may be done by perseverance ; and that it is not merely the
number of acres a man possesses, but the amount of appli-
cation, aided by a mind of expansive character, that signal-
izes efforts in this way.

Whilst pointing to the benefits to be derived by carrying
out such a course of culture, it ought not to be forgotten
that, within the range of her majesty's dominions, at home,
a variety of climate occurs. People about the great me-
tropolis, who do care about the thrice-told tales of cool cli-
mates farther north, may and do think that too much fuss
is apt to be made about warm aspects, ripening the wood,
protection and all those minutias, which those who have
gardened far north, or in localities of considerable altitude,
have been compelled to pay regard to. So various, how-
ever, are the conditions in this respect, that it is next to
impossible to lay down one set of rules for fruit culture, even
for Britain alone, to say nothing of British possessions across
the water ; for our neighbors, or dependencies in the colo-
nies, have no doubt frequently profited by the sound advice
which flows from the horticultural press of Britain.

Having stated thus much as a preliminary introduction to
some general remarks I wish to offer, I will now proceed to
point out a few of the main principles which must at all
times influence proceedings in this way, be the clime what
it may, capable of modification nevertheless, such modifica-
tion dependent in the main on the average amount of solar
light, together with the average of atmospheric humidity.
Herein lies the basis of the whole argument, according to
my opinion, for the question of heat appears to me as a
secondary consideration.

Depth of Soil. — Although all other requisites are duly
carried out in establishing fruit trees on a strict dwarfing
system, if the soil is prepared too deep, it will have a con-
tinual tendency to mar all other efforts.

Depth of root, when considerable, especially if the soil be
of a generous character, is sure to produce a late root-action,
and this is as sure to prove an impediment to the perfect

Remarks on Dwarfing Fruit Trees. 397

ripening of the wood, which latter point might, in all proba-
bility, be urged as the proper groundwork of the whole
affair. If any one doubt t]|e importance of this principle,
let him cast his eyes on the thorn family, and behold the
vast difference in character between the pampered thorn-tree
in some trenched plantation, and the short-jointed, stubby-
looking tree on some elevated clayey knoll. Now I con-
tend, the habits and mode of bearing of the thorn being as
near as may be analogous to the bulk of our cultivated
fruits, that the first described thorn is a fair counterpart of at
least eighty per cent, of our kitchen garden fruit trees in
Britain, whilst the other case wil^l equally prove an illustra-
tion of what a dwarfing system can accomplish. Every
body knows the immense, fertility of the thorn situated on a
knoll of poor soil, and equally so the comparative barrenness
and profusion of young shoots which attend the other case.
To be sure, high culture here is admirably adapted to pro-
duce a good hedge. We need scarcely urge, however, that
the two objects in view are as opposite as the poles ; for
what is so great a nuisance in a compact and neat little
fruit garden as coarse growing fruit trees continually over-
powering their more moderate neighbors, and threatening to
monopolize the limited plot of ground to themselves ? The
proprietor is continually tempted, maugre the fine high
sounding titles on the neat labels, to cut them down, but
the old idea of " try them another year" comes many a time
to their rescue ; and thus they continue a pest, the poor un-
fortunate proprietor continuing, with much assiduity, to
prune away annually a profusion of coarse shoots, all pro-
duced to no other purpose than to exhaust soil, which might
have been much better employed.

It may hereby fairly be inquired, what is a shallow soil,
or rather, what that precise depth, if there be one, which
suits the majority of our fruit trees? To answer this by
offering a specific depth would indeed be an arbitrary mode
of settling such matters. Soils, subsoils, and sites, differ so
much as to render this unnecessary. Moreover, like the
celebrated drainage question amongst our agricultural neigh-

398 Retna?'ks on Dwarjing Fruit Trees.

bors, the question of depth, if argued to a nice point, might
lead to much useless controversy, for which the public has
neither time nor inclination, I may nevertheless be per-
mitted to quote my own practice, which I may without
egotism be permitted to say has been exceedingly success-
ful, extending over a course of many years. Twenty
inches, then, 1 consider the maximum depth at which our
fruits for dwarfing should be planted ; indeed I have peaches
and nectarines second to none, which have been planted a
dozen years or more ; these had only fifteen inches of loamy
soil allowed them.

I would here respectfully point to a very common error
concerning depth of prepared soils for fruit trees. It is com-
mon with those who are well experienced in the diversity
that exists in soils, as well as in the prejudicial effects which
oozy or wet subsoils are liable to produce, to advise planting
above the ground level. I have known persons in such
cases still make the amount of soil below the level of the
same depth, whereby, if elevated considerably, the whole of
course constitutes a greater volume, and is a departure from
the principle laid down. The measurement should, of
course, take place from the apex of the mound, or at least
the height it is intended to attain ; in such cases it is well
to take the liberty of adding two or three more inches, un-
less water is present at a certain level, in order to prove a
counteracting power to the influence of extreme drought in
hot summer.

From the question of more depth I must take the liberty
of adverting to that of quality. A soil may be deep, yet
poor ; it may be shallow, yet rich ; we must therefore learn
to separate these matters. In later times so much has been
said or written about the evil effects of introducing ma-
nures,— especially those of the animal kind, — into our fruit
borders, that it may at first, sight appear a work of superero-
gation to moot the question. It is plain, nevertheless, that
the public are not yet sufficiently informed on this head ;
and that even as " little strokes fell great oaks," so must
repeated observations, through the medium of the press,

Remarks on Dwarfing Fruit Trees. 399

establish ultimately a system to guide those who do not
fully understand the bearing of the question.

In the more practical gardening of former days, deep
trenching or digging and a liberal manuring formed in the
main the practice pursued in making new plantations of
fruits. However, it was very common, some thirty years
since, to find a great portion of the quarters in our old
kitchen gardens overshadowed by huge old fruit trees, giv-
ing ample evidence of over-cultivation originally. Their
vegetables were of course inferior in character, and the
whole garden in consequence wore an unsystematic appear-
ance. Subsequent experience has proved that it is of more
importance to attend to the mechanical character of the soil,
and that the mixing of manures with the bulk of the soil
had better be dispensed with, since any necessary amount
of nourishment may be carried out by a system of top-
dressing or mulching.

The benefits of the latter process, indeed, are but half
estimated as yet.

When it is taken into consideration what a tendency
mulch has to encourage surface fibres, which are well known
to tend to a fructiform habit, it is somewhat astonishing that
the practice is still so limited. Another point too must be
observed, and that of no mean importance, viz., the great
utility of surface manure, in preventing the injurious effects
of sudden droughts, which not unfrequently cause trees to
cast a considerable portion of their fruits.

Amongst other adjuncts of a dwarfing system, the selec-
tion of proper stocks on which to bud or graft our superior
fruits, is a question of the very highest import. It is strange
to think that the quince stock, so valuable for dwarfing the
pear, has not come into more general use. Two points con-
cur to hinder its almost universal adoption, viz., its ineligi-
bility for producing a showy tree in a short time in the nur-
sery, and the uncertainty that at present exists as to its
thriving on any given soil. With regard to the first, it is in
part a nurseryman's question. Pears grafted on the free or
pear stock, will make stout plants in half the time of those

400 Remarks on Dicarfing Fruit Trees,

grafted on the quince ; the nurseryman therefore naturally
prefers the pear stock, for the plants appear much superior to
the eye of those who do not fully understand the matter.
Indeed, if the nurseryman must be compelled to work on
the quince, it is but fair that he should be permitted to
charge nearly double the price for them, for not only would
they require nearly double the time to make established
plants, but in many cases he would have to apply peculiar
dressings to his soil, to fit it for their culture.

In my opinion it is vain to plant pears on such stocks, in
soils not adapted for the quince itself; those who are using
pear or quince stocks, therefore, should consider the natural
habits of the quince.

One of the most essential points, as far as my experience
of the quince reaches, is to secure a permanency of moisture
in the soil ; without this the trees may grow, but the fruit
will be liable to become mealy and insipid. Indeed similar
eifects are known to follow with the pear on the free stock.
I have known them crack or rift almost, in pieces, through
the effect of drought, on sandy or weak soils. The quince,
moreover, can hardly be too highly cultivated ; and be the
soil of a garden what it may, the ground can soon be ren-
dered suitable, providing the platform mode of planting be
adopted. As to providing a soil permanently moist, I sup-
pose we must use a liberal amount of a tenacious loam in
the soil, the other portion should be of very sandy old vege-
table soil ; such as equal parts of very old cow-manure, leaf-
mould, old spent tan, and boggy soil, adding some fine sand.
By this mode of procedure, I have been enabled to grow
the pear on the quince in the very highest degree of perfec-
tion at Oulton Park, whereas the ordinary soil is by no
means suitable.

Here again, in order to secure a regular moisture, mulch-
ing should be had recourse to ; the quince moreover makes
abundance of surface fibres, and these revel beneath a coat-
ing of rotting surface manure.

The remarks here offered concerning the quince apply in
a considerable degree to the Paradise stock for apples. The

Remarks on Dwarfing Fruit Trees. 401

Paradise, however, will thrive in any good sound loam, and
this may be slightly manured for them, or at least some half
decayed vegetable matter may be blended with the soil.
These, too, should be mulched annually, in order to carry
out the objects before explained.

With regard to plums, most of the stocks used by our
nurserymen are of too gross a habit for a dwarfing system.

What is called the " Brussels," we believe, is an exceed-
ingly gross stock ; that termed the Muscle or Mussel stock,
is, we believe, more moderate in growth, and would answer
better.

In the question of stocks, however, much has to be
learned, and many trials ought to be at once instituted by
some public body, such as the Horticultural Society of Lon-
don, in order to set the matter at rest forever. About five
years Avould suffice to throw all necessary light on the sub-
ject, and the trials should embrace everything likely, espe-
cially stocks of a hardy character, and which thrive in their
own native ordinary soils. For instance, the black thorn or
sloe ; why may not this answer for the plum on a dwarfing
system ?

I would now advert to what I must term the great mis-
take of former days in regard of trained fruits. Everything
was to be carried out by peculiar modes of training ; hence
we had, for a series of years, a host of systems, so termed :
in addition, too, great niceties in the pruning art were intro-
duced, and shown forth in many a tempting diagram, tempt-
ing I mean to those who were still merely scanning the
surface of the aff'air. At last, a more comprehensive view of
the subject began to be taken, and pruning and training fell
into a secondary position.

Limitation of branch was now supposed to require a cor-
responding amount of limitation at the root, and from that
period may be dated a sound reform in fruit culture. The
whole matter has now taken what I conceive to be a health-
ful tone, and I have little doubt that, during the next seven
years, most of the gardens in the kingdom will present a
new and much improved aspect.

VOL. XVI. NO. IX. 51

402 Pomological Gossip.

Ill all' cases of dwarfing fruit trees, it is of much import-
ance to keep the various kinds classified in the mind's eye.
Thus, one section depend almost entirely on the old spur
for their fructiferous habits ; another, almost entirely on that
of the annual wood ; whilst not a few depend on a combi-
nation of both characters of wood. These things should
not be lost sight of, as, whatever the root-culture may be,
the natural habits of the kind in question should be care-
fully borne in mind. As a general maxim, it is well not to
allow the mind to be too much biassed by any set plan, (or
system, to use a dignified title,) but to combine such wher-
ever an eligible opportunity presents itself, reserving the
chance of returning to either whenever the age, condition
or circumstances of the kind render such a course eligible.
Thus a pear, in its earlier stages, may be brought to bear on
natural spurs alone ; after a few years, however, most of the
spurs towards the centre of the tree will become barren, in
spite of cleverly devised pruning systems, and then it will
be found good policy to change, in part, the tactics, and to
commence tying down those young shoots on which nature
has set the stamp of early fructification, evinced by a pecu-
liarly short jointed character, and by turning brown betimes,
together with an early cessation from growth, as compared
with what is commonly termed watery wood. These are of
course mere technicalities, and it is to be regretted that more
popular terms do not exist by which to express them ; the
public mind, however, is fast ripening in these respects, and
the day is at hand, in the which a due conception of such
terms will not be confined to mere gardeners ; our horticul-
tural press, taking the form of the times, will shortly render
all these things perfectly familiar, even to the inhabitants of
our busy commercial towns. — {Paxtori's Mag. of Bot.)

Art. IY, Pomological Gossip.

Notes on several varieties of Cherries, Our corres-
pondent, Mr. C. Downing, of Newburgh, has fruited quite a

Pomological Gossip. 403

number of varieties of cherries, and among them some of
the newer sorts. He sends us the following notes after the
trial of the past season : —

Early Purple Guigue, proves good with me.

Werder's Early Black, had only a few ; about as early as
Knight's Early Black and rather more sweet and juicy.

Rockport Bigarreau fruited with me this season, and prom-
ises to be one of the very best early cherries.

Reine Hortense and Lemercier appear to be the same, and
promises to be a valuable Duke cherry.

Cumberland Seedling, large and good bearer, but not high
flavor.

Bigarreau Gabaulis, large and showy.

Bigarreau d'Octobre and Buttner's Black Heart, which I had
from Mr. Rivers, both fruited this year, but are not cor-
rect.

Mr. Downing has produced two very excellent seedling
cherries, the Red Cheek and Champagne. They are ex-
ceedingly hardy and productive sorts; the former resembling
the Bigarreau and the latter the Downer.

The Highbush Blackberry. The magnificent speci-
mens of this fine fruit, shown at the hall of the Massachu-
setts Horticultural Society this season, have surpassed those
of any previous year, not only in quality but in quantity,
many boxes (or quarts) having been presented at each of the
weekly meetings in August. The finest specimens came
from our correspondent, Capt. Lovett, whose excellent article
on their cultivation appeared in our June number, (p. 261.)
The berries were of very large size, some of them measur-
ing one atid a half inches long, and thirty-four of them
making a layer of the ordinary quart boxes in which they
are usually gathered. The blackberry is deservedly becom-
ing a most popular fruit. It produces most abundantly, and
comes in just after the raspberry, keeping up the season of
the smaller fruits till September.

List of Fruits recommended for general cultivation
BY the New York State Agricultural Society, in addi-

404

Pomological ^Gossip.

tioii to those already recommended, of which the names
have been given in our volume for 1848, (XIV, p. 69.)

APPLES.

Dominie,

Wine,

Peck's Pleasant.

GOOSEBERRIES.

Whitesmith, (Woodward's,)
Crown Bob,
Green Walnut.

PEARS.

Doyenne d'Ete,
Andrews,
Flemish Beauty,
Urbaniste.

PLUMS.

Madison.

CHERRIES.

Knight's Early Black,
Graffion,
Black Eagle,
Downer's Late.

RASPBERRIES.

FastolfF,
Franconia,
White Antwerp.

PEACHES.

Old Mixton Free,
Bergen's Yellow,
Crawford's Late.

CURRANTS.

Knight's Sweet Red,
White Grape,
May's Victoria.

We are glad to see the committee have made the Beurre
Spence a synoiiyme of the Flemish Beauty, as adopted by
us in the Fruits of America.

All the above fruits are described at length, accompanied
with outline engravings of each.

New Seedling Raspberries. We notice that our corres-
pondent. Dr. Brinckle, of Philadelphia, has exhibited before
the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, six or eight varieties
of seedling raspberries, which the committee notice as " very
fine specimens." Dr. Brinckle has raised several seedlings,
some of which he has named, but we have never yet seen
the fruit of any of them. We hope another year to see
specimens placed on the tables of the Massachusetts Horti-
cultural Society, and have their merits tested. No fruit is
more capable of improvement than the raspberry ; and the
production of a large fine fruit, and a hardy vine, one that

Pomological Gossip. 405

will live without protection in winter, is a great desideratum.
We have no doubt, however, that this will be accomplished
in a very few years.

Gutherie's Apricot Plum. Some time since (p. 121)
we copied a notice of this plum from the Pi'oceedings of the
Pomological Convention at Syracuse, and stated that our
correspondent, Dr. H. Wendell, of Albany, who wrote the
notice, had made a slight mistake in saying it was raised at
Guthrie, instead of being produced hy Mr. Guthrie of Tay
Bank, Scotland. Dr. Wendell has since informed us that
" the mistake was not his but the printer's, and is only one
of a very large number which are to be found in his report as
well as in the debates published in the proceedings." In a
large number of copies distributed by Dr. Wendell, he made
the proper correction.

The Madison Plum. This new plum, one of Mr. Den-
niston's seedlings, was exhibited at the Pomological Con-
vention at Syracuse, and tested by the committee on seed-
ling fruits, whose notice of it appeared in the published
Proceedi?ig-s, and was copied into our Magazine, (p. 112.)
Its excellence on further trial, (when the specimens were
fully ripe,) was so great that the New York State Agricultu-
ral Society have published a full description of it, accompa-
nied with an outline of the fruit.

This variety was an accidental seedling, which sprung
up in the garden of Mr. Denniston, about seven years ago,
and first came into bearing in 1848. In 1849 the tree bore
about three bushels, many of which hung on the tree with-
out decaying, shrivelling, or losing their flavor until the 10th
of November.

The principal merits of this variety are the late period of
the season at which it comes to maturity, its very prolific
habit, and ability to withstand our severe and changeable
winters without injury. It is supposed to be hybrid between
the Bleeker's Gage and the Blue Gage, one of the former of
which varieties is growing immediately adjoining it, and
several of the latter which surround it on every side.

406 Notes on Gardens and Nurseries.

Art. Y. Notes on Gardens and Nurseries.

A RECENT visit to some of the principal gardens in the
vicinity, in company with a committee of the Massachusetts
Horticultural Society, with a view to inspect the varieties of
strawberries in general cultivation, enabled us to jot down a
few hasty notes which may not be uninteresting. Our first
visit was to

The Garden and Nurseiy of S. Walker. — The principal
objects of interest here, besides the general collection of fruit
trees, were two seedling strawberries, raised by Mr. Walker,
one of which has been shown at the rooms of the Massa-
chusetts Horticultural Society for two or three seasons, and
giving promise of excellence. Mr. Walker set out a new
bed last year, which was now in the most vigorous condi-
tion, bearing an excellent crop of fruit, each plant producing
one truss, containing eighteen or twenty perfect berries, of a
very rich dark color, and of moderate size ; scarcely large
enough, however, to give it a prominent place among the
most desirable sorts for general cultivation.

The pear trees sutfered here as well as in other places,
and the fruit showed the injurious effects of the cold storms
of May. A few new sorts were in bearing, but we had not
time to examine them, and at this early season no very cor-
rect opinion could be formed of their merits.

The flower garden, though somewhat spotted with pear
trees, still was gay with many of our old favorites, — Lych-
nis vesicaria pleno, exceedingly pretty, with its spikes of
double pink flowers, and the old yellow iris, very showy.
Everything denoted the most perfect keeping in every de-
partment.

Garden of Capt. W. H. Austin, Dorchester. — The grounds
of Capt. Austin comprise about two acres, situated on Pleas-
ant street. The location is quite level and the soil rather
light, but, notwithstanding this, every part of the premises
showed the most thorough cultivation and the judicious man-
agement of the proprietor. The house, stable, carriage

Nurseries of Messrs. Breck (^* Co.^ Brighton. 407

road, &c., occupy nearly one quarter of the ground, but not-
withstanding this, no less than four hundred dwarf pears on
the quince have been planted, besides many plum, peach,
and cherry trees, still leaving abundant space for raspberries,
strawberries, blackberries, and the kitchen garden depart-
ment.

The pears are mostly trained in the pyramid form, and
are kept in compact shape by the method of summer prun-
ing, which we have so often described. Many of the trees,
though the oldest have only been set out five years, have
borne fruit, and would have probably produced a good crop
this year but for the inclemency of the weather in May.
It was upon one of the dwarf trees that Capt. Austin raised
the fine Duchess of Angouleme pear, weighing upwards of
twenty ounces, of which we gave the beautiful drawing in
the Fruits of America. The trees were this year covered
with, blossoms, but they dropped without setting a single
fruit.

Capt. Austin is very successful in the management of his
peach trees. They were branched near to the ground, and
the bark was as smooth and clean as that of a pear tree. His
practice is to wash, as we have frequently advised, with
whale oil soap once a year ; by doing this not a borer has
troubled the trees. We were much gratified with our visit,
and hope another year to see the place when the pears have
a full crop.

Nurseries of Blessrs. Breck c5' Co., Brighton. — The ex-
tent of ground occupied by Messrs. Breck & Co. is upwards
of thirty acres, though only a small portion of it is under
cultivation. It is situated near Cory's Hill, on the upper
Brighton road, about half a mile from the village, and the
grounds, from the highest part, command a splendid view of
Brookline, Boston, Cambridge, and the surrounding country.
A few acres are devoted to the nursery and a few to the
cultivation of garden seeds. The flower garden contains
nearly an acre, and this we found well filled with a fine col-
lection of herbaceous plants, annuals, roses, &c. Wc no-
ticed here several species of Clematis which have proved

408 Notes on Gardens and Nurseries.

hardy, viz., C. Shillings, Chaiidlen, and cylindrica. Heme-
rocallis variegata is a very pretty species. Campanula grandis
proves hardy, and is a most showy plant.

The roses were now just in their prime, and the speci-
mens of Mad. Hardy and others were exceedingly fine.
The pear trees, of which Messrs. Breck & Co. have quite a
number set out for fruiting, looked exceedingly well, and
were bearing some promising specimens ; they seemed to
have suftered less here than at other places. The stock of
3'oung fruit trees, of all sorts, had a vigorous and healthy
appearance.

Garden of J. Gordon, Brighton. — Mr. Gordon's grounds
almost adjoin those of Mr. Breck, and contain several acres,
though only two or three are included in the garden. Mr.
Gordon has been successful in his management of trees, and
last year exhibited some remarkably fine specimens of pears.
for which he was awarded the first premium. The location
is well adapted to the culture of fruit, being protected on
the east by a dense grove of pine trees, which break the
cold and chilling winds. The land slopes off" to the south-
west, and is sufficiently elevated to give a free drainage to
all superfluous water. Mr. Gordon's best pears have been
produced on espalier trees, which were set out on an old
border, made, in the most thorough manner, for peaches :
but the latter not doing well, running all to wood from the
richness of the compost, they were rooted out and their place
filled with pears ; these were now in bearing and exhibited
some excellent specimens. The standard pears were also
bearing a good crop, and the plums were literally loaded
down, so that, as early as this, they had to have some of
their limbs propped up ; among the number was a Golden
Drop, one mass of fruit. The garden is neatly arranged
with walks parallel to the boundary, and with others cross-
ing at right angles, and the whole kept clean and in good
order.

Hawthorn Grove^ residence of Hon. M. P. Wilder. —
Since our last visit here many improvements have been
made, which greatly alter the aspect of the grounds and

Residence of T. H. Perkins, Brookline. 409

show them to better advantage. The circular pond in front
of the greenhouse has been filled up and was now covered
with trees. The boundary fence between the new nur-
sery and the old garden has also been removed, which adds
greatly to the apparent extent of the place. The walks have
also been extended and their borders planted with flowers
and shrubs.

The strawberries were the first objects of attention. Col.
Wilder has quite a number of varieties, including all the
new ones and many seedlings; among others we noticed
Dr. Brinckle's Gushing, Richardson's Cambridge, Burr's New
Pine, &c. But these were all wanting in some quality to
render them valuable sorts; the Gushing appeared to be the
best of them, but the berries are too light colored. Several
of the seedlings were in bearing, but we believe there was
nothing new among them. Col. Wilder has devoted much
time to the cultivation of seedlings, impregnating them with
the utmost care ; and although he has raised hundreds of fine
strawberries, better, indeed, than many that have been puffed
into notice as something great, yet he has not reserved one
which it would have given him any credit to name, know-
ing, as he does, that to be worth anything it should be at
least as good, if not better, than any we already possess.
If all amateurs and cultivators would adopt this principle,
our catalogues would soon show a reduction of names.

A bed of Princess Adelaide moss roses was covered with
its immense clusters of buds and blossoms, proving it to be
one of the most vigorous growers and an abundant flowerer.
The whole collection of roses was in bloom, but we had no
time to examine them.

Residence of Col. T. H. Perkins, Brookline. — The late-
ness of the hour when we arrived here, prevented us from
taking only a cursory view of the grounds. As usual we
found them in fine order, under the excellent management
of Mr. Thomas Cowan, son of Mr. Perkins's former gardener.
The graperies and peach-houses were producing heavy crops
of these delicious fruits, which were now about half grown,
the early vineries having had their fruit already cut.

VOL, XVI. NO. IX. 52

410 Notes on Gardens and Nurseries.

The flower garden was radiant with an abundance of
showy flowers, among which we particularly noticed a fine
lot of seedling verbenas. Mr. Cowan has also produced sev-
eral seedling Tea roses, which were now, however, out of
flower ; but at another time we hope to give some account
of them. The strawberries were exceedingly abundant ;
quite a number of kinds are under cultivation, but Mr.
Cowan finds none which can compare with Hovey's Seed-
ling and the Boston Pine,— the crops of the latter had been
immense.

One of the principal objects of attraction here, at the
present time, is the beautiful poultry-house of Col. Perkins.
Though not exactly a horticultural structure, yet the interest
we feel on the subject induces us to notice it. No expense
has been spared in its construction. The frame is of wood,
filled in with brick and rough plastered : what the style is it
would be difficult to say ; it is seventy-five feet long and
eleven high, partly open to the south and divided into three
compartments, — ^one, a room at the east end, for visitors : the
opposite end is for the accommodation of turkeys and geese,
and the centre is an open space where the fowls resort in
rainy weather. A bell placed in one of the cupolas, of
which there are three, chimes the hours of feeding, and all
the birds eagerly run at this summons from their keeper.

A second excursion on the 5th of July, gave us an oppor-
tunity to visit several other places.

Residence of S. D. Bradford, Esq., West Roxhury. —
Mr. Bradford's farm is very extensive, and his operations are
more agricultural than horticultural. Around the house,
however, the grounds are tastefully laid out and planted
with a pretty collection of roses and shrubs, and the kitchen
garden in the rear is kept in fine condition. Besides the
general neatness and keeping of the place we found but
little to bring to the notice of our readers.

Residence of A. D. Weld, Esq. — Mr. Weld's premises
nearly adjoin those of Mr. Bradford, and comprise a large
extent of fine land, beautifully located. The orchards are
very extensive, and produce large crops of fine fruit. Near

Residence of G. R. Russell, Esq. 411

the house some two or three acres are devoted to the growth
of strawberries, raspberries and currants, of which latter
fruit Mr. Weld produces abundant crops of large-sized ber-
ries of the Red and White Dutch varieties. Rhubarb and
asparagus are also produced in quantities for the market.

Mr. Weld pointed out to us some cherry trees of great
age, which still bore abundant crops, the bodies being of
large size, with full and compact heads. Like his neighbor,
Mr. Bradford, Mr. Weld's grounds come within the province
of the agricultural society ; and when it is known that the
Norfolk Society awarded him the first premium for the best
managed farm in Norfolk County, enough is said to give it
the character of the Model Farm.

Residence of G. R. Russell, Esq. — It is now four 3^ears
since we gave some account of the improvements which
Mr. Russell has made in his beautiful place. Since that
time, however, still greater changes have been made, par-
ticularly in the approach to his place ; additional land in the
rear of the house has been taken in, the buildings removed
which, obstructed the view from the main road, and the
whole laid down and in part planted with trees.

The flower garden we found in the neatest order, filled to
overflowing with masses of verbenas, petunias, eschscholt-
zias, &c., &c. We here noticed the Glycene frutescens in
flower, which, though an American species, is more rare than
the Consequcma. The shrubs and trees have greatly changed
their aspect, from their rapid growth, since 1846, and now
formed a thicket of foliage, bordering the walks to the ob-
servatory, which overlooks the garden. One shrub in par-
ticular Mr. Russell directed our attention to ; this was the
double Sloe, which he said, when in flower, had the appear-
ance of a gigantic snow-ball. The arbor vitrc hedges are
finely managed, being clipped in the form of an inverted V,
and dense and compact as could be desired. The grape-
house was in the best order, neat and clean, and making a
" show of fruit" that would satisfy the most zealous culti-
vator. We would refer gentlemen, who desire a model for a
grape-house, to our description of Mr. Russell's in a previous
volume, (XII, p. 452.)

412 Notes on Gardens and Nurseries.

The kitchen garden here is also a model of its kind ; it
contains upwards of an acre, and has been nearly trenched
throughout, the vigorous crops showing the effects of a deep
and generous soil. Everything was in the finest condition,
the ground free from weeds, and the whole so different from
the usually neglected state of kitchen gardens, that its in-
spection afforded us the highest gratification.

Belmont Place, Watertown, J. P. Cuslmig, Esq. — This
fine residence still retains its high reputation for beauty,
order, neatness, and high keeping. The new and elegant
mansion, so long vacant, is now occupied by the proprietor,
and an air of liveliness, which they did not before possess, is
now communicated to the park, the pleasure-ground and the
garden. The long rows of magnificent Norway spruces and
the tall masses of arbor vitass, seem to look less sombre, now
that the stillness which formerly reigned about them is
broken by the foot fall, the tramp of horses and the occa-
sional rolling of carriage wheels. The solitude which is
associated with an uninhabited building of such size and
grandeur, and grounds of such extent, lessens the enjoyment
of their attractions. The vast expanse of park, which adds
so much to the character of the old English residence,
would possess only half the attraction it now does, but for
the herds of deer which traverse its bounds, giving life and
animation to the scene.

The garden was gay with flowers, though less so, now
that the roses were nearly gone, than a week previous. The
conservatory was enriched (thanks to Mr. Schimming, the
gardener, and his foreman, Mr. Evers,) with a fine display
of fuchsias, achimines, gloxinias, &c. We cannot under-
stand why it is that a greenhouse in summer should be
stripped of every plant, and have the benches all brushed
down as if nothing would grow, or ought to be grown, there
in summer. Why, half of the beautiful plants we possess
bloom only in summer. Who that had a greenhouse or con-
servatory would be without the magnificent Japan lilies, the
rich Chinese hibiscuses, the beautiful achimenes of all hues,
the lovely gloxinias, the fuchsias, begonias, and numerous

Garden of J. F. Allen, Salem. 413

other plants. Really we believe the gardeners are at fault ;
for it is their duty, if their employers do not know of the
beauty of these things, or do not think of them, to inform
them of it, and have a supply at all times ready to keep up
the appearance of the house.

The grape-houses were bearing heavy crops of the finest
fruit, — large berries, large clusters and well colored, — we
have rarely seen better. The peach-houses, too, were filled
with fruit, all denoting care, attention and industry, on the
part of the gardener.

Nurseries of Messrs. Hovey 4* Co., Cambridge. — The
excursion ended with a hasty walk through these grounds,
which we would prefer some of those who accompanied us
should give an account of, rather than ourselves.

The third and last excursion was among the Essex Coun-
ty amateurs and cultivators.

Garden of Mr. O. Johnson, Lynn. — We gave so full an
account of Mr. Johnson's premises last autumn, that there is
little to add here, other than that the crop of fruit, much to
the gratification of the proprietor, is this year very good,
better than in the immediate vicinity of Boston. The trees
did not drop their blossoms so generally, and what fruit there
is, is fairer than in the places we have before noticed. It is
unnecessary to add, that the " economic point" of keeping
is never lost sight of by Mr. Johnson. •

Garden of J. F. Allen, Salem. — The principal objects of
notice here are the vineries and forcing-houses. In the
early vineries the grapes were nearly all cut, and in the later
ones they were only about half-grown. Among the new
sorts which have fruited we noticed the Austrian Muscat,
which is probably correct, although Mr. Allen obtained his
vine from the same source that we had ours, which proved
to be a black grape of no Muscat flavor whatever. That of
Mr. Allen's is an extremely desirable sort, with clusters about
the size of the White Frontignan, though not as long, of a
deep amber color, approaching to a pinkish shade, and with
a rich brisk musky juice.

The retarding house works exceedingly well ; it was kept

414 Notes on Gardens and Nurseries.

covered np with boards as long as it was possible to do so,
without drawing up the eyes too weak ; and we should
judge the crop to be more than a fortnight later than the
ordinary cold house. By this plan, Mr. Allen manages to
have grapes every month in the year, the retarding house
holding on, with the aid of occasional heat to dry up damp,
until the crop from the first forced house comes in.

Some beautiful peaches and nectarines were nearly ripe in
one of the houses, and the crop was exceedingly large and
fine. To lovers of forced fruit, an inspection of Mr. Allen's
houses afford the highest gratification.

Garden of C. Hoffman. — We hav€ never had the pleasure
of a walk through the garden of Mr. Hoffman before. Though
covering only a moderate extent of ground, less than an
acre, we should think, including all the buildings, we found
it filled with plants and trees. There is also a camellia
house, two vineries, a stove, and a greenhouse, — in all nearly
two hundred running feet of glass.

In the garden the roses struck us as particularly fine. Mr.
Wilson, the gardener, certainly deserves credit for their man-
agement. They were principally trained as pyramids on
trellises to the height of ten feet, and were clothed with
fiowers, from the bottom to the top. The sorts were hiostly
hybrid Chinas and hybrid Bourbons, such as Madame Plan-
tin, Tl!urette, Brennus, Geo. IV, &c., &c. The plants are
all protected in winter, by loosening them from the trellis,
and covering them with manure, straw or litter of any kind.
The whole labor of covering a hundred plants is but small,
but, if ten times as much, the splendor of these specimens
would amply repay it.

The camellias, owing to the occupation of the whole
ground as a flower garden, are never removed from the
house during the year, and looked in very good order. The
house is kept shaded, and as cool as possible. They were
well set with buds and promise a fine display. Some of the
double whites are exceedingly large and valuable plants.

Mr. Wilson has tried some experiments in the culture of
the strawberry ; one of them was the growth of the Boston

Residence of J. D. Bates, Esq., Phillips Beach. 415

Pine in hills. His success was very great. He informed
us that nothing could exceed the product of the plants ; the
trusses were so numerous that they spread out in every direc-
tion, forming a circle of fruit around each hill fifteen or
twenty inches in diameter, and literally covering the ground;
the berries piled one upon another. We thought we had
produced good crops ourselves, but this was something more
than we had accomplished.

The vineries were producing tolerable crops, and the
houses were all in good order, and the garden neat, clean
and orderly in every part.

Residence of the Hon. J. S. Cabot. — Mr. Cabot not being
at home, we could not see all the plants of interest which
make up his admirable collection. He has spared no pains
to procure all the new and fine herbaceous flowering plants,
and we presume no other collection equals his in this de-
partment. The new phloxes were many of them just com-
ing into bloom.

The fruit trees were bearing a fine crop of very promising
looking fruit, but as the newer sorts, of which Mr. Cabot
has a great quantity, are planted on a piece of land out of
the city, which we had not time to visit, we cannot now
give any account of them. The garden was in the very
best order.

Residence of J. D. Bates, Esq., Phillips^ s Beach, July
31. — No one can be insensible to the great improvements
which have been made in the seaside residences which have
so rapidly sprung up near Boston within the last few years.
The story has been so often repeated, that it has become a
settled fact with some, that nothing will grow on the exposed
and windy places along the shores of the harbor and bay.
Even at Nahant, once covered with trees, beautiful cottages
have long stood and still stand, without a tree or shrub near
them, exposed to the glaring sun, and, but for the cooling
breezes from the ocean, wholly insupportable as summer
residences to any one who is not willing to forego every
thing simply for the sea air. But Mr. Tudor commenced
the work, ridiculed though he was ; and now that it is found

416 N'Qles on Gai'dens and Nurseries.

trees will grow, others are following his good example ; and
with a liberal outlay of money, and little attention in plant-
ing, this sea-girt isle might in a few years be clothed with
verdure.

Mr. Bates has selected a beautiful location for his resi-
dence, bordering immediately upon the bold and rocky
shore, commanding a full view of the harbor, with Nahant
in the foreground and Cohasset in the distance. The extent
of the grounds is some fifteen or twenty acres, five or six of
which comprise the ornamental portion around the house,
about an acre as a kitchen garden, and the remainder unim-
proved, only so far as to be laid out with walks, without
changing the wild and picturesque character of the place. It
is the improvements that have been made in planting orna-
mental trees that we wish more particularly to notice.

Mr, Bates commenced with planting the Abele, for its
rapid growth, but this he soon abandoned and planted the
Silver maple ; these were far more beautiful, grew finely and
resisted the winds ; next he tried the Norway maple ; these
too are admirably adapted to bleak situations, their foliage
being thick and dense, and the trees of rapid growth. Only
six years have elapsed since Mr. Bates commenced planting,
and now the trees form a thick and dense boundary of
foliage.

In the rear of the house, in a somewhat sheltered place,
about quarter of an acre is planted Avith fruit trees, and
already several dwarfs upon the quince were loaded with
fruit.

The kitchen garden we should particularly notice. The
soil is light and thin, and in order to have a good garden
the whole ground was trenched two feet deep ; the result has
been that no better success could be desired on the very
richest soil. Already we found a trellis covered with toma-
toes nearly ripe. Okra sown in the open ground, now two
feet high, and will produce plentifully its pods, which make
such a rich dish. All the ordinary vegetables were in fine
condition, and not a weed to be seen. Though less in
extent, it reminded us of Mr. Russell's,, which we have pre-
viously noticed.

General Notices. 417

We have remarked that a portion of the grounds remain
in their natural state, with no aUeration save the walks
which have been cut through, and the planting of a lot of
Scotch firs ; of these we noticed quite a number, perhaps
two feet high, and doing well. Mr. Bates informed us he
set them out a year ago, merely cutting a hole with the
spade, lifting the sod, putting in the plant, and replacing the
earth just as before setting out. In a few years these will
get up five or six feet, and will then entirely change the
appearance of the grounds. The Scotch fir is a fine tree,
perfectly hardy, and will flourish in the bleakest situation.

Other improvements are in contemplation. The approach
to the house is to be lengthened and more land added on
each side so as to give greater extent. When these are
completed it will be one of the finest seaside residences in
the neighborhood.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General JVotices.

Botanical Noivienclature. — When we drew attention, a fewweeks since,
to the state of botanical nomenclature, we suggested that our readers should
favor us with their opinions upon the propriety of making some clianges in
it. We did so, not from entertaining the least doubt as to what the right
course is, but for the sake of eliciting such expressions of opinion as would
put us in possession of the views of those who are alone interested in the
question. So far as mere technical science is concerned, the language of
botany is good enough, for botanists understand it. The real question at
issue is, whether it is adapted to familiar use ? and, if not, whether it can-
not be so adapted without any violent interference with usage or scientific
convenience? Very few men are or can be professed botanists ; multitudes
wish for such an acquaintance with botany as an important and highly inter-
esting branch of science demands of the well informed ; and there is a very
large class of persons whose pursuits compel them to talk in the language
peculiar to it. But this language is entirely foreign to English ears and
English taste — uncouth, inelegant, and even barbarous. To remedy this,
and to place it in such a condition that it may be an object of attraction to
the educated multitude, as well as to a few studious philosophers, has for
many years been the aim of ourselves and others. Nor has our motive
been even limited thus narrowly ; on the contrary, we believe that it and
VOL. XVI. NO. IX. 53

418 General Notices.

and other branches of natural history may be made a valuable part of a
villager's education ; but, if that is to happen, natural history must wear an
English dress. If it be of no importance to any one beyond the unlearned
tliat plants should have English names, it is to theji ; and for them, at least,
the battle is worth fighting.

Some perception of this necessity has evidently been felt, though uncon-
sciously, even by those among whom are to be found the most uncompro-
mising opponents of an English terminology. Dkotyhdones, ExogeiifP,
Cri/ptogamcE, have already settled down as Dicotyledons, Exogens and
Cryptogams, just as Mollusca, Pachydtrmata and Mammalia, have become
Mollusks, Pachyderms, and Mammals. Men now talk of Conifers instead
of ComfercE, and of Orchids instead of OrclddacccR or Orchidere. It is clear,
therefore, that the current of opinion is setting steadily in a better direction ;
and there is no reason why it should move so slowly.

The view of this question taken by " Nomenclator," p. 421, will probably
prove to be the most generally acceptable. In the main he agrees with our-
selves, but he pushes his fear of translated names nmch further. Conced-
ing, as Ave fully do, that to translate into English the technical names of
genera is upon tlie whole inexpedient as a rule, and to be avoided where
possible, we cannot admit tliat the objection to it rests upon any other
ground than that of inconvenience. English compound names are as fit for
scientific purposes as Greek and Latin ones ; but they cannot form part of
that universal language which the convenience of science? requires ; and
therefore they are inadmissible when foreigners have to be communicated
with ; and moreover, as we have already stated, they entail upon men of
science the necessity of remembering two names instead of one, which is
inconvenient when some hundred thousand such names have to be recol-
lected. These are weighty reasons, and we admit their force ; but we
recognize no other reason. " Nomenclator's" translation of Moth-face is
surely as agreeable a name as Phalanopsis, although Moth-orchis would
have been before ; and Ave see little force in Mr. Owen's objections, if rest-
ing upon no bettor ground than a bungling ?m's- translation of Dendrodus
into Shrub-tooth. We may laugh at the absurdity, just as Ave should at
translating Oncidium cacum into Blind Hookey, as a facetious friend sug-
gests ; but such follies can form no part of a serious argument. We repeat,
then, that Ave give up the translation of scientific proper names, because of
the inconvenience, and for no other reason.

That is, howcA-er, no reason why Ave should not employ pure English
names Avherever Ave can Avithout incurring tliat inconvenience ; and Ave
decline to acknowledge the propriety of" calling a Qiiercus or a Fagus by
any other name than those of Oak and Beech. BtlUs must be Daisy, Del-
plnniwn Larkspur, Aconitum Monkshood, Ranunculus CroAvfoot, JugJans
Walnut, Canja Hickory, and Taraxacum Dandelion, as long as the English
tongue endures ; and foreigners must learn the meaning of such Avords just as
they learn the meaning of other Avords. It is quite as reasonable for us to
say to a foreigner, " you, for our convenience, must learn tliat WilloAv is the
English for Salix," as for him to say that Ave must know Salix to be the

General Notices. 419

Latin of Willow for his convenience. And since Prof. Owen's authority
has been introduced into the question, we must add that we claim him for
a good witness on our own side. Let any one turn over the pages of his
beautiful work on fossil reptiles, and see how sedulously he shuns the hard
words of technical science wherever he can. He talks of the Gavial, the
African constrictor, tiger-boa, sea-snake and common snake, and not of
Gavialis, Dixoni, Python reghis, Pijlhon tigris, HydropMs hicolor, or Coluber
natrix. Every one must, we think, desire that he had carried this further —
substituting snakestone for ophiolite, and so on.

We remark that onp of our correspondents is alarmed lest his Crocuses
should degenerate into Crokes, and therefore he Avould compel people to go
on for ever breaking their teeth against the angles of our Grreco-Latin
compounds. But his fears are groundless ; Crocus is a name not likely to
be disturbed ; and if it were, the change would not be more disastrous than
that of Hyacinthuses into Hyacinths. In spite, therefore, of this warning,
Ave venture to recommend that on all possible occasions, the technical
proper names of science be adapted to our own tongue, where familiar
names do not exist. It will be found an important means of diffusing a
taste for natural history, and need not shock the sensibilities of the most
tight-laced stickler for scientific formalism. Calycanths are as good as
Calycanthitses, Hyacinths as Hyacintliiises, Perymenes as Ferymeniums,
and Glossocards as Glossocardi'a^.

But wJiile we recommend the abandonment of translations of teclmical
proper names, we must insist upon what is the greatest point of all, the
translation, wherever possible, of the adjectives used in the binomial sys-
tem, and of all adjective terms whatsoever for which English equivalents can
be found. This is, however, opening a new and perfectly distinct question,
for which we must crave a second hearing. — [Gard. Chron., 1850, p. 467.)

On the differknce between Geraniums and Pelargoniums. —
The most beautiful of flowers is, by common consent, the rose ; one of the
next is, perhaps, the pelargonium. The rose has the advantage of all others
in possessing a sweet scent ; but in the beauty of color it shares with many,
for the various shades of red are all more or less beautiful, and not merely
because tliey are good contrasts to green, for in that case they would not be
beautiful alone, which they decidedly are. Now beauty of color, like that
of form, is of two kinds, — that which is primitive or intrinsic, and that whicli
is secondary or representative. The beauty of pink and rose-color, or light
red, is in most flowers, and in many otlier cases, only secondary or imitative,
because it represents what in fruit is indicative of perfection and ripeness,
qualities which are esteemed useful or afford wholesome gratification. The
same color is esteemed beautiful when it graces the object of man's highest
admiration ; for then it is a mark of liealth and pleasure, especially when
not heightened beyond what the poet calls the " bloom of young desire,
the purple light of love." It is, tlierefore, the associations tliat attend the
appearance of this color in flowers to which their beauty is to be attributed,
as, in poetry, that language is the most admired which expresses itself with
the most apt allusions. Many varieties of pelargoniums possess various

420 General Notices.

shades of pink and rose color, hence their preeminent beauty ; and it is
among these beautiful varieties that I have chiefly obsei-ved a peculiar cir-
cumstance, ■which I thought sufficiently remarkable to be described to tlie
members of this society, and their friends, especially as it will give me an
opportunity of explaining to some amongst you, who may not have forgotten
the old name Geranium, why that name is no longer used for florists' flowers.
Indeed, it will be necessary to refer to the distinguishing marks of the
geranium and pelargonium to render the value of my observations obvious.
The old genus Geranium is now considered a natural order, and the pecu-
liar form of the fruit is its most remarkable character, being elongated like
a crane's beak. This natural order is divided into five genera; one of
these genera, called Rhyncotlieca, has no petals, and is therefore easily
known ; it contains only two species. Another is called Monsonia ; this has
fifteen stamens, mostly divided into five clusters, and petals with jagged
edges ; otherwise much resembling tlie true geranium. The other three
genera are distinguished partly by their mode of growth ; two of tliem,
Erodium and Geranium, consisting of soft herbaceous plants, examples of
them are found chiefly among the wild European and English weeds : and
the third is a group of stronger shrubby plants, having woody perennial
stems ; these are natives of Africa only, and mostly of the soutliern parts,
near tire Cape of Good Hope, and are now called Pelargoniums. The
great resemblance of the three genera to each other is pointed out by their
Latin names, thus : — Eronium, from iQoSioc, a heron; Geranium, in Greek
reqaviov, from yfC«i"?, a crane; and Pelargonium, from xfE/ao/o?, a stork;
because, as I before observed, the fruit resembles the beaks and heads of
tliose birds. Tlie distinction between geranium and pelargonium is a strictly
natural one, and wliat every gardener will admit. He has been, therefore,
ready enough to adopt a new name ; and without burthening his memory to
distinguish between a crane's bill, a stork's bill, or a heron's bill, he satisfies
himself with the Latin name pelargonium, which he applies at once to his
favorite plants. But as Uie mode of growth is very variable, botanists have
endeavored to point out some fixed character by which the genus may be
determined, — a character to be taken from the flower or fruit. And in the
case of pelargonium they seemed to be eminently successful, for in pelar-
gonium, with its shrubby mode of growth and truss of flowers, was found a
peculiar form of flower, Avith two large upper petals and three smaller
petals below, the stamens all turned downwards, and only seven of them
perfect ; and besides this, a tubular nectary, commencing at the base of the
upper stamens, and continued down and attached to the flower-stalk, and
endin'j- in a rounded swelling, which is easily seen in the flowers before
you. I should observe also that the two upper petals are generally marked
with a deep-colored spot. On the other hand, both the erodium and gera-
nium have equal petals, five or ten perfect stamens, and no nectary or
honey-tube penetrating the flower-stock. Thus pelargonium appears to be
a good or well-defined artificial, as well as natural, genus or group. But
tlie gardener, when he finds, as in this case, nothing but external beauty to
recommend a plant, endeavors by selecting what he considers the most

General Notices. 421

perfect, and then cultivating it higlily, to increase in the succeeding pro-
duce both the beauty of color and of form ; and as the beauty of form
depends upon the same elements as that of color, — that is, upon the perfect
adaptation to the end, or tlie resemblance to that adaptation, — so the full
round form is especially aimed at by the cultivator of flowers ; and the
pelargonium fancier endeavors to obtain five broad and equal petals to formi
a round flower, and tlie upper two, deeply and brilliantly colored as a con-
trast to the tliree lower and light colored ones ; but with all his care, the
flowers are not constant, and now and then one will play the truant, or
sport, as he calls it ; and this commonly takes plaqe amongst the most
petted or highest cultivated varieties, where the color seems to defy control
and becomes vagrant, especially in the upper petals, from which it some-
times absolutely departs altogetlier, as in some of tlic flowers before you. —
[Gard. Jour., 1850, p. 4<j7.)

Roses a>'d Pelaugoniums which obtained the prizes at the last
exhibition of the London Horticultural Society in July. — Roses (cut) were
shown in abundance, and tliough their freshness and beauty were much
impaired by the heat of the day, they formed an attractive portion of the
exhibition. Prizes were awarded for 50 varieties to Messrs. Lane, Paul,
Francis, Spriggins, and Foster ; and for 25 varieties to A. Rowland, Esq.,
of Lewisham : Mr. Slo«e, gr. to W. R. Baker, Esq. ; Mr. Tivey, gr. to T.
Wigelin, Esq. ; and Mr. Ayre, gr. to A. Currie, Esq. An exhibition from
Mr. Terry, gr. to Lady Puller, of Youngsbury, Herts, was disqualified, on
account of its containing the same rose under tAvo different names. Among
Messrs. Lane's varieties we remarked excellent blooms of the following —
Gallica : Ohl, shaded lake ; Pharericus, large crimson. Jllba : Madame
Audiot, creamy white, blushy centre. Hyhrid Provins : General Jacque-
minot, large shaded lake. Hijhrid Bourbon : Chenedoll^, brilliant crimson ;
Comtesse Mole, delicate rosy pink; Coupe d'Hebe, and Paul Ricant.
Damask: Madame Zoutman, creamy white. Hybrid Perpetual: Armandine,
pink ; Chateaubriand, large delicate pink ; Comte de Montalivet, rosy crim-
son ; Duchesse de Galliora, shaded pink ; Duchesse de Praslin, blush, with
pink centre ; Duchess of Sutherland, Madame Trudeaux, carmine ; Sidonie,
large pink ; and the brilliant Standard of Marengo. Among Bourbons, the
most conspicuous Avas the Avell known rose, Dupetit Thouars. The same
nurserymen had also beautiful exhibitions of Geant des Batailles, the most
brilliant of all roses, Queen and Baronne Prevost ; and Messrs. Curtis &
Co., of Bristol, sent charming boxes of Devoniensis and Geant des Batailles*
The best 12 roses exhibited by Messrs. Paul Averc — Damask : Madame
Hardy. Alba : Felicite Parmentier. Hybrid Pcrpdual : Julie de Krudner,
Ducliess of Sutherland, Baronne Prevost, La Reine, Sidonie, Pius IX.,
Gen. Negrier, and Duchesse de Montpensier. Hybrid China : Gen. Jac-
queminot and Lamoriciere.

Pelargoniums Avere much finer than they are usually seen in July.
Messrs. Stains' and Parker's plants Avere in first-rate condition, and covered
Avith large fresh floAvers. The fancies were not so gay as we have seen
them earlier in the season. Plants in 11-inch pots. Mr. Parker had Ro-

422 Domestic Notices.

setta, Pearl, Emperor, Louisa, Rosy Circle and Arniada. Mr. Stains,
Armada, Centurion, Lamartine, Armada superb, Gulielnia and Pearl. Nur-
serymen: Mr. Gaines sent Meleager, Negress, Chieftain, Lord Warden,
Oriflame and Rosy Circle. Six plants in 8-inch pots: Mr. Stains produced
Constance, Brilliant (Topping,) Narcissus, Ariel, Conspicuum and Pearl.
Mr. Cock, Centurion, Sundown, Star, Meleager, Ondine, and Sikh. Mr.
Robinson, Mars, Cassandra, Senata, Paragon, Ariel, Rowena. Nursery-
men : Mr. Beck had Governor, Painter, Cuyp, Vanguard, Loveliness and
Star. Mr. Bragg, Ondine, Conspicuum, Alderman, Azure, Voltigeur and
Countess of Sefton. Mr. Gaines, Aspasia, Star, Mars, Flying Dutchman,
Excelsa and Marchioness of Stafford.

Fancy Pelargoniums. — Mr. Stains sent Hero of Surrey, Reine des Fran-
cais, Magnifica, Queen Superb, Bouquet tout fait and Fairy Queen. Mr.
Gaines, Wintonia, Orestes, Fairy Queen, Reine des Francais, Alboni and
Hero of Surrey. Mr. Ambrose, Juno, Pilot, Enchantress, Magnet, Standard,
and Pride of Surrey. — {Card. Chron., 1850, p. 455.)

The RoujfD-LEAVED Bell-flower or Hare-bell. — Campanula ro-
iundifolia. — This is one of the most truly elegant, and one of the most uni-
versally admired of British plants. In some part of England the name
harebell is appropriated to the wild hyacinth or blue-bell, but the present
plant seems to have the best claim to it from general practice and poetical

autliority : —

" E'en the slight harebell raised its head,
Elastic from her airy tread."

We must not, however, expect vernacular names to have any precision or
certainty of application. The name campanula signifies a little bell, and
expresses the characteristic form of the flowers of tliis genus. It is pro-
duced by the coherence of the five petals, of which the corolla really con-
sists. The union is so complete that the flower appears to be only cut or
lobed in the border, more or less deeply in different species. — ( Gard. Jour.,
1850, p. 4()8.)

Art. II. Domestic JVotices.

American Pomological Congress. — Meeting postponed to the 2c?, Sd
and 4th daijs of October. — The next session of this National Institution,
which was to have been held in September, is hereby postponed to tlie 2d,
3d, and 4lli days of October next. The Ohio State 'Board of Agriculture
have also postponed the State fair to the same time. In conformity, there-
fore, with the resolutions instructing the president of this association to act
in concert witli tiiat board, this notice is given to countermand the circular
issued for the meeting in September. The reasons assigned for this change
are, that tlie apprehensions in relation to cholera and similar diseases may
continue to exist until after the time heretofore appointed for the meeting of
these institutions. — M. P. Wilder, President. Boston, August 22, 1850.

We are glad to learn of this postponement for two reasons : it Avill enable
more eastern pomologists to visit Cincinnati, as they could not leave in Sep-
liBmber, on account of the annual exhibition of tlie Massachusetts Horticul-

Domestic Notices. 423

tural Society, on the 17th, 18tli and 19th ; and it will also enable them to
take with them, if they go, or, if not, to send, specimens of the same fruits
which were gatliered for exliibition at home, and which, so early as they
would have had to have been forwarded to reach Cincinnati on tlie 11th,
the time first sot, would not have been half grown. We strongly urged our
western friends, last auttnnn, to put oft' the exhibition until after the eastern
shows were all over. — Ed.

Muskingum County Horticultural Society, Ohio. — Mr. Cox, the
Secretary of this Society, has sent us the following report of the exhibition
of strawberries and other fruits, held June 12th, at Zanesville : —

Rev. C. Springer, of Springfield, presented a basket of apples, called
Springer's Seedling, preserved in barrels, in the ordinary mode. They
were in a very fine state of presei-vation, retaining both their firmness and
flavor in an unusual degree. It would be proper to say the same variety of
apples were exhibited at the fall show of 1849, of the previous year's
growth ; their flavor was then somewhat injured, but tlieir firmness well
preserved.

Mr. Barnard, of Falls, presented several baskets of strawberries, embrac-
ing the following varieties : — Hovey's Seedling, Ohio Mammoth, Burr's
New PLne, Burr's Old Seedling, Hudson, Duke of Kent, Scarlet, Iowa,
Chilian Scarlet, Large Early Scarlet, and also a seedling of much merit,
which was rather small in size, but the " tasting conmiittee" pronounced
the flavor superior to any of the other varieties presented. It was in flavor
much like Hovey's Seedling, but rather sweeter. Hovey's Seedling, for
size and flavor combined, was considered the best exhibited, one of which
measured full four inches in circumferencQ. One of the Ohio Mammoth
measured three and three fourth inches in circumference. The Hudson
and Early Scarlet Avere undoubtedly the same variety.

Mr. E. T. Cox, of Springfield, also presented baskets of Burr's New
Pine, and Ohio Mammoth, of very fine size and quality. — Jas. L. Cox,
Secretai-y, June 12ih, 1850.

Buffalo Horticultural Society. — The Report of tlie July Exhibi-
tion has reached us, but as it would occupy several pages we can only give
a brief notice of it. The exhibition of flowers was large, botli of pot
plants and cut flowers, and the premiums were as follows : —

Best display of plants in pots, J. Westphal, diploma.

Finest and best geraniums, E. Tyler.

Best and finest varieties of garden roses, B. Hodge, diploma.

Second best variety of garden roses, Mrs. Lewis Eaton, $1.

Best Fuclisia Stanwelliana, E. Tyler, $1.

Best calceolarias, J. Westphal, $1.

Discretionary premiums for splendid seedling calceolarias, J. West-
phal, $1.

Best pansies, J. Westphal, $1.

Best and finest varieties of flowers, Mrs. Lewis Eaton, diploma.

Best bouquet. Miss Eliza Cogswell, $1.

Best floral design, Miss Lucy Bryant, diploma.

424 Domestic Notices.

Best verbena, E. Tyler, $1.

Best cut flowers at tliis exhibition, L. F. Allen.

The show of strawberries must have been excellent, as there were more
tlian twenty exhibitors, and at least twenty varieties shown. The first pre-
miuai was awarded to Mr. C. Taintcr, but the report does not state for what
kind. The president, Mr. Eaton, exhibited fine specimens of the Bigarreau
de Lyon cherry, vhich the committee pronounce " a very large, fine, beau-
tiful and early variety." — [Report.)

Crops in the West, — Insects and Benefits of Mulching. — In a
letter to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, by Dr. J. A. Kinnicott, of
the Grove, Illinois : —

Dr, Wight, Corresponding Secretary, Dear Sir, — When I last wrote, we
were, I think, in the commencement of an uncommon drought, for this re-
gion, as our springs ai-e usually wet. We have suffered, however, much
less than was feared. The small grains have come on finely since the late
and abundant rains. Indeed, I saw two fields of spring wheat last evening,
tliat had made growth enough to " lodge" before a heavy thunder's gust.
Wheat and oats now bid fair for a good crop. Corn came up very uneven,
or not all, until well into tliis month. Some that was planted very early in
May came up at once, but generally there was not moisture enough to cause
the seed to germinate, and it lay in the soil, dry and safe, for near a month,
and then came up with tolerable regularity. This crop now looks decidedly
well about here. Potatoes are fine, but garden plants, such as parsnips,
onions, &c., from seed, have almost entirely failed. The same may be said
of annual flower-seeds, few or none came up, or survived the frosts and
drought of April and May, when they came early.

Tulips and hyacinths flowered badly, early pseonies, &c., as poorly.
Pseonies, Humei, albicans, &c., of tlje late blooming sorts, Avere loaded
with perfect but rather small flowers. The Avhole race of roses are bloom-
ing deliciously. We have, I believe, about three hundred names of hardy
roses, (doubt if we have more than half as many sorts, essentially differ-
ing,) and these are, or have been, literally loaded with buds and flowers,
though I think that many more than the usual quantity or proportions of
buds have proved defective or abortive ; and the insects have been unusu-
ally destructive this season, especially the worms that feed on the bud and
unexpanded leaf ; of these, there are three or four sorts very abundant. I
know not their names though I do their habits, — one of these, usually called
the " measuring worm" or " striding caterpillar," has also played the mis-
chief with the young Avood of fruit trees. I have shaken over a dozen from
a nursery tree ; never two on the same twig. They are huge feeders, and
not at all timid.

Our shoAv of fruit is rather fair than otherwise, when the severity of our
winters and our singular spring, are considered. I believe I told you that
the mercury fell to 18° or 20° below zero in December and January. This,
I knew then, must kill all tlie peach buds ; but I thought this degree of cold
could not aflfect other fruits, after so dry and late an autumn, Avliich ripened
the wood most perfectly. In this I was mistaken. As soon as the sap

Domestic Notices. 425

startecl, this spring, I discovered that the black spot was in the heart of the
cherry and tlie plum, the same as the peach, though not universal. A very
few buds developed flowers, and now and then may be seen a cherry, and
on some seedling sorts of " Damsons," quite a show of plums,— all marked
by the curculio though. Did not know there were any plums until too late
to try the lime remedy.

On perliaps a quarter of my ap])Ie and pear trees there is a great quantity
of fruit. On a few trees occasional specimens, but on most trees there
were no flowers and consequently no fruit ; but on every tree where I saw
flowers, (except nursery trees,) I now find fruit. Indeed I never knew apples
and pears " set" better. But I cannot account for the irreg-ularity of bear-
ing,— as, in some cases, trees of the same age and tlie same variety, stand*
ing side by side, the one will be loaded and the other barren,— 'where
both either bore or were alilce unfruitful last year. My White Doyenne (St.
Michael) is loaded with fruit. My quinces flowered very full, but the ends
of tlie shoots, (generally from two to eight inches) are dying or dead^ We
cut off" the blackened ends yesterday. It looks like the work of an insect.
My German gardener says, " too much manure." New wood is starting
below the disease.

Our losses in the nursery have been great ; in our spring planting, espe-
cially of evergreens.

We have this season proved the efficacy and even necessity of mulching
trees newly planted. One lot of fine yearling pear seedlings, from Geneva,
N. Y., came in apparently bad order, quite dry. We covered them lightly
(aft;er watering them) in mellow earth, and, after a day or two, planted and
covered the whole surface three or four inches deep, with hay, that had been
threshed for the seed. Of tliese, we have not lost .10 per cent., while of
some not mulched we have lost .75 ; though most of these last had leaf
blight last year, and yet they were planted much earlier and Avith greater
care, and appeared safer when planted than the mulched ones.

In a few days, I hope to start on a tour of observation through a portion
of our country, and I shall doubtless see many things worth communicating"
next month. — Until then, farewell. Your friend, John A. Kinnicott, of the
Grove, Illinois. To Dr. E. Iflght. Sccretarij Mass. Hort. Soc.

Boston Pine Strawberry. — The Boston Pine has fruited with me for
the first time this season, and thus far it fully sustains the high character it
has acquired with you. — Respectftdli/, yrs., J. Battey, Keeseville, .V. F.,
July, 1850.

New Plants from California. — Our old correspondent, W. R. Prince,
of Flushing, who has now been a resident of California more than a year,
has sent us an interesting communication on the prospects and condition of
California, which having more reference to the mining operations now going
on, than to agricultural or horticultural matters, we have only room for the
concluding portion, in wliich he gives some account of the botanical riches
of the country, and the acquisitions lie has made : —

I will now leave this brancli of California wonderments, and 1 had in-
tended to comprise in this communication some account of the agricultural

VOL. XVI. NO. IX. 54

426 Domestic Notices.

claims which this countrj' presents and which have been most e^'egiously
overrated ; and also an account of the majestic evergreen and deciduous
trees, and of the unique and beautiful shrubbery, and the lovely bulbous
and otlier flowers with which the mountains and valleys are carpeted, but I
must defer them for an after occasion. I will simply remark, that I have
transmitted to the nurseries at Flushing, during the last autumn and winter,
the seeds of above one hundred and fifty species of trees, shrubs and plants,
entirely new to myself, and the most of them as yet unknown to tlie botanic
world. Among these were nearly one thousand bulbous roots, of numerous
species, collected in the mountain regions of tlie Sierra. I am taking every
means of obtaining additional species from all sections of the country, and
in the autumn I shall set out on my return to Long Island via Mexico, bring-
ing these collections with me, and I also shall bring with me what will not
be equally gratifying to the botanist, but may be measurably so to other scien-
tific men, — specimens of gold from all the various mining districts, from the
quartz boulder down to the fragments, tlie coarse grained, tlie scaly, and
to the almost impalpable dust. I have already sent home some beautiful
specimens, but I shall take, among others, one weighing about ten pounds,
which is about half the size of the largest that has been found in the region
of the Sacramento, and which I intend as a present for a much esteemed
friend. — Yours, very respectfully, Wm. R. Prince, Sacramento, May 28, 1850.

The Cherry Tree Borer. — Dear Sir : I wish to inquire of you res-
pecting the borer which works in the cherry. He is evidently a small chap,
for only a small wire can be forced into his hole. He works in trees from
an inch to six inches in diameter, and from a foot to four or five feet from
the ground. I have never been able to find him ; for he is much like the good
ma?i in Scripture, "known by his fruits," (or rather his borings!) — Yours,
truly, J., Worcester, July 11, 1850.

Grafting Fir-trees, the Shellbark, &c. — I wish to inquire about
grafting fir-trees upon spruce or hemlock ; also about grafting tlie common
liickory with shell-bark ; also, whether tlie Madeira nut-tree^can be had at
the nurseries of Hovey & Co. or where it may be obtained ? — Tridy, yours,
George Jaques, Jidy, 1850.

[We presume the fir may be grafted on the spruce or hemlock without
much trouble, although Ave have not tried the experiment. Loudon, in his
Arboretum, describes a mode of herbaceous grafting which is practised suc-
cessfully on all tlie pine and fir tribe. The shell-bark may be grafted on
the hickory. The Madeira or Spanish nut may be obtained of Hovey Co.,
and, we presume, of any respectable nurseryman. — £c?.]

Stripping the Bark from Cherry Trees to prevent their
BEING Bark Bound. — From several experiments of my own and otliers, I
find that tlie cheiTy may be stripped of its outer bark ^v\\h perfect safety,
and that the operation is of great service in enabling tlie tree to pass
through the crisis from smooth bark to rough bark. When once this crisis
is passed, the tree appears less liable to injury from frost or heat than be-
fore.— Yours, J., Worcester, July, 1850.

Albamj and Rensselaer Horticultural Society. A27

Art. III. Albany and Retisselacr Horticultural Society.

In accordance with tlie established programme of meetings for 1850, the
Society met at the Agricultural Hall on Wednesday, the 10th of July, Dr.
Herman Wendell, one of its Vice Presidents, in the chair. The hall was
thronged during the day and evening by ladies and gentlemen from the city
and its vicinity.

The following gentlemen were chosen delegates to represent the Society
in the American Pomological Congress, the next session of which is to
convene in Cincinnati in September next, viz : —

From the county of Albany, Joel Rathbone, Dr. Herman Wendell, B. P.
Johnson, Ezra P. Prentice, James Wilson, Sanford Howard and E. II. St.
John. From the county of Rensselaer, V. P. Douw, D. Thomas Vail, B.
B. Kirtlandt, S. E. Warren, Amos Briggs, William Newcomb and William
Buswell.

Fruits. — The display was quite extensive and interesting, though the
number of varieties of cherries exhibited was much less than in former
years, owing to the unpropitious season for that delicate fruit.
The award of premiums was as follows :

Cherries. — For the best and most extensive collection, to Henry Vail, $3.
For the second best and most extensive collection, to Dr. H. Wendell, f2.
For the best two varieties, to Alden March, for Tradescants Blacldieart

and Black Tartarian, $2.
For the best one variety, to E. C. Aikin, for Black Tartarians, $1.
Gooseberries. — For the best and most extensive collection, to James
Wilson, $3.
For the best and finest flavored variety, to Henry Vail, for Compton's

Sheba Queen, $2.
For the second best and finest flavored variety, to Henry Vail, for Lady
of the Manor.
Raspberries. — For the best and most extensive collection, to H. Vail, $3.
For the best and finest flavored variety, to Henry Vail, for Fastolffs, $2.
For the second best and finest flavored variety, to John S. Gould, for
New Red Antwerps, $1.
Currants. — For the best and most extensive collection, to H. Vail, $-3.
For the best and finest flavored variety, to James Wilson, for Knight's

Sweet Red, ^.
For the second best and finest variety, to H. Vail, for White Dutch, $1.
A special premium of $1 to John S. Walsh, for a beautiful display of five
varieties of mulberries.

Floral Designs, Bouquets, etc. — The committee reported that there
was exhibited by Mr. James Wilson, one large round bouquet, for centre
table vase, beautifully an-anged with choice roses, fuchsias, spireas, dsc„
&c., for which they have awarded the premium of $2 ; one flat hand bou-
quet, and one round hand bouquet, both exquisitely arranged, composed of
choice and delicate flowers, as euphorbias, hoyas, stephanotus, rose buds,
&c., &c., for each of which they have awarded a premium of $1.

42S Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

By Wm. Newcomb, a large flat bouquet for mantle vase, for which they
have awarded the premium of $2 ; also, a beautifully arranged round
bouquet.

By N. Tillman, from Dr. Wendell's garden, a beautifully arranged basket
bouquet with handle, &c., premium of $\.

By E. Corning, Jr., a pyramidal floral design, arranged with skill and
taste, for Avhich they have awarded a discretionary premium of $1.

Greenhouse Plants. — The exhibitors were D. T. Vail, J. Wilson, Miss
Wagner, Miss Eights and Mrs. J. Gould.

The premium of $1 for the best six varieties of fuchsias they have
awarded to D. Thomas Vail, for the varieties indicated in his list above.

That of $1, for the best three varieties, they have awarded to James
Wilson, for Beauty Supreme, Carolina and Delicata.

Flowers. — The principal exhibitors were D. T. Vail, V. P. Douw, J.
Wilson, Dr. Wendell, E. C. Macintosh, W. Newcomb, and J. Duguile.

PREMIUMS.

Dahlias. — For the best exhibition, to D. Thomas Vail, of Troy, $3.
For the best twelve varieties, to D. Thomas Vail, for Star, Lady of tlie
Lake, Felix, Rainbow, Sunbeam, Beauty of Sussex, Queen of tlie
French, Rosetta, Cleopatra, Queen of England, Caractacus, and
Master George Clayton, .f2.
On carnations there was no competition. For picotees, the premium of
$\ is awarded to James Wilson for the best three varieties exhibited.

For the best display of annual and perennial flowers, the premium of ^2
is awarded to William Newcomb, of Pittstown.

Vegetables. — The committee on vegetables report tlae following pre-
miums : —

E. C. Mcintosh, for tomatoes, $1.

E. Corning, Jr., for best exhibition, ^1.

Art. IV. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, August 3, 1850. An adjourned meeting of the Society was
held to-day, — the President in the chair.

Voted, That tlie Society meet in future at 12 instead of 11 o'clock.

Voted, That the gentlemen nominated as delegates to the Poniological
Convention in Cincinnati be appointed by the Society, and that they have
power to add to their number and to fill vacancies. The following are the
names of tlie delegates :— S. Walker, M. P. Wilder, B. V. Frencli, A. D.
Weld, J. II. Billings, W. B. Kingsbury, Joseph Breck, J. S. Sleeper, Eben
Wight, D. Leach, W. R. Austin, C. M. Hovey.

A communication was received from F. R. Elliot, Cleveland, with a dona-
tion of seedling cherry buds, which were placed at the disposal of Uie Presi-
dent

The thanks of the Society were voted to Mr. Elliot, and the Correspond-
ing Secretary dkected to communicate the same.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 429

A communication was also received from W. P. Allen, Oswego, asking
for the Transactions of tlie Society, and tlie Corresponding Secretary was
directed to award it.

Dr. Wendell presented the Journal of tlie New York State Agricultural
Society.

Adjourned two weeks, to August 17, at 12 o'clock.

Exhibiied. — Flowers : From Breck & Co., Hovey & Co., Winship &
Co., P. Barnes, J. Nugent, L. Davenport, J. Hovey, Miss Russell, H. Grun-
dell, W. Kenrick, W. E. Carter and others, a variety of cut flowers, bou-
quets, &-C.

GRATUITIES AWARDED.

To P. Barnes, for cut flowers, $2.
To Breck &l Co., for the same, $2.

To Winship & Co., Hovey &, Co., J. Nugent, L, Davenport, Miss
Russell, J. Hovey and W. E. Carter, for cut flowers, $1 each.

Fruits. — From J. F. Allen, very fine Belle-garde (alias Violet Hative)
peaches ; Late Newington nectarines, fine ; Bishop, Portieu Noir, Whort-
ley Hall Seedling, and White Hamburgh grapes, all late and desirable for
their keeping qualities ; also Franconia raspberries and blackberries. From
O. Johnson, very fine Red and White Dutch currants, and Black St.
Michael's figs. From Geo. Darracott, five varieties of grapes. From Jos.
Stickney, fine Madeleine pears. From L Fay, Madeleine pears.

From Hovey & Co., Doyenne d'Ete and Madeleine pears ; Murray nec-
tarines ; Early Crawford peaches ; and Wilmot's Black Hamburgh No. 16,
and other grapes. From C. Stearns, Jr., Red Dutch currants. From J.
H. Blake, Red Astrachan apples. From E. M. Richards, Red Astrachan,
Early Harvest and Williams apples. From F. Dana, Garretson's Early and
Sopsavine apples, and Madeleine pears. From A. D. Weld, Red and
White Dutch currants, and Franconia raspberries. From J. Nugent,
grapes. From C. E. Grant, blackberries. From Geo. Wilson, very fine
Red and White Dutch currants. From B. V. French, Heath's Early Non-
such apples. From J. Hovey, fine Whitesmith gooseberries. From C.
Barnes, three sorts of gooseberries. From J. A. Keiuick, Bello Magnifique
cherries and Black Mulberries. From F. King, superior blackberries.

[Vegetables. July 13. — From J. Nugent, String beans. From E.
Burns, String beans and cucumbers, open culture. From Hovey &. Co., a
brace of Walker's Prize cucumbers.

July 20. From E. Burns, potatoes and cucumbers. Mr. Josiah Crosby,
cucumbers, beets and carrots.

July 27. — From A. D. Williams, early potatoes. From E. Burns, pota-
toes. From A. Carter, potatoes. These were omitted in the regular order
of our report.]

August 10. Exhibited. — Flowers: From H. Grundel, fine cut flowers
of jErica mammosa rubra, vestita, regerminans and seedling Japan lilies.
From Hovey and Co., fine balsams and phloxes. From T. Needham, fine
balsams and otlier flowers. From J. Nugent, fine balsams and other flow-
ers. Cut flowers were also sent sent by tlie President, Breck & Co., L.

430 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Davenport, Winship &, Co., P. Barnes, W. E. Carter, W. Kenrick, A.
Bowditch, J. Hovey and others.

PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED.

Balsams. — For the best display, to T. Needham, $3.

For the second best, to J. Nugent, $2. '

For the third best, to Hovey & Co., $\.

To J. Nugent, Hovey & Co., L. Davenport, Winship &l Co., Breck &
Co., A. Bowditeh, P. Barnes and J. Hovey, for cut flowers, $\ each.

Fruit : From Hovey «Sz^ Co., Doyenn6 d'Ete pears. From O. Johnson,
Black St. Michael figs ; Muscat of Alexandria grapes, and Red and White
Dutch currants. From M. P. Wilder, Cluster pears, one of Gov. Edwards's
seedlings. From O. N. Towne, grapes. From A. D. Williams & Son,
Williams's, Red Astrachan, Bough and Spice apples. From E. M. Rich-
ards, Early Harvest, Williams, Bough, Summer Rose, Red Juneating and
Sugar-loaf Pippin. From Joseph Lovett, fine Roaring Lion, and Hough-
ton's Seedling gooseberries, and fine Victoria currants. From F. W.
Dana, Garretson's Early and Sops of Wine apples. Very fine blackberries
from G. Merriam and C. E. Grant. From W. C. Strong, Peach plums,
fine. From B. V. French, fine Early Harvest and Irish Peach apples, and
blackberries. From J. Washburn, Red Astrachan apples. From F. Tudor,
Easter Beurre pears, preserved by D. T. Curtis, and in good condition.
From E. Brown, Lynn, Red Astrachan and Early Harvest apples. From J.
Eustis, fine Early Harvest apples. From J. Hovey, very fine Early Har-
vest apples. From H. Vandine, Jaune Hative plums. Sops of Wine apples,
and Breda apricot.

Fruits tested by the committee : Early HaiTest apple, fine ; Garretson's
Early, fine flavor and a fair fruit. Cluster pear, inferior. Doyenne d'Ete
pear, first quality.

AiLgusl 17. An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, —
Vice President, E. M. Richards, in the chair.

On motion of C. M. Hovey, the following delegates were appointed to
attend the exhibitions of the New York State Fair and American Institute : —

S. Walker, B. V. French, J. S. Cabot, C. M. Hovey, M. P. Wilder, Eben
Wright, Jos. Breck, Otis Johnson, J. S. Sleeper, delegates to the New
York State Fair.

S. Walker, M. P. Wilder, C. IVL Hovey, W. R. Austin, E. A. Story,
delegates to attend American Institute.

Adjourned two weeks to August 31sL

Exhibited. — Flowers : The premiums for phloxes were awarded to-day,
and there was a very fine display of a large number of varieties, including
a few beautiful seedlings. Messrs. Breck & Co. had a very fine striped
one, something in the way of Princess Marianne, but the flowers were
larger, and the petals better ; it belongs to the class of tall growing kinds,
-and ])roduces its flowers in a dense panicle. Messrs. Carter and Barnes
had some good seedlings, but nothing decidedly new. Breck & Co.'s
^tand contained Nymphsea alba, Blanc de Neuilly, speciosa, rosea superba,
and seven seedlings. That of Hovey & Co. contained Blanc de Neuilly,

HorticnUural Operations for Septemher. 431

Nvmphtca alba, Princess Marianne, rosea superba, Apollo, and five seed-
lings. Some fine phloxes, part of them seedlings, were also contributed
by the President. Flo«-ers and bouquets, from J. Nugent, L. Davenport,
W. P. Callender, R. M. Copeland, Messrs. Winship, Geo. Walsh, W.
Kenrick, J. Hovey, Miss Russell and others.

PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED.

Phloxes. — For the best ten varieties, to Breck & Co., $6.
For the second best, to Hovey & Co., $4.
For the third best, to P. Barnes, $3.

Gratuities. — To L. Davenport, Hovey & Co., Breck & Co., J. Nugent,
Winship & Co., P. Barnes, and Miss Russell, each $\ for cut flow-
ers, &c.

Fruit: From A. D. Williams, Red Astrachan, Williams's, fine, Bough
and Orange Sweet apples ; Jargonelle pears. From J. Gordon, Williams's
and Bough, fine, apples. From J. Mann, House of Industry, Louis Philippe
plums, very fine ; probably the same as the Wheeler or Peach plum. From
Mr. Clapp, presented by the President of the Society, Clapp pear. From
S. Downer, Jr., Red Astrachan apples, very fine. From Messrs. Winship,
Fondante d'Et6 pears. From E. Brown, Red Astrachan apples. From B.
V. French, blackberries ; River apples. From C. E. Grant, blackberries,
very fine ; Mousieur Hatif or Orleans plums. From M. H. Simpson, by D.
H. Burns, peaches, very large and fine. From G. Memam, blackberries,
fine. From Hovey & Co., Victoria, Macready s Early White, White Nice,
Muscat of Alexandria grapes. From Otis Johnson, Houghton's Seedling
gooseberries ; blackberries, fine ; Red Astrachan apples, very fine. From
Messrs. Breck, Jargonelle pears. From J. F. Allen, White Flamburgh,
Bishop's grapes, very fine ; blackberries. From M. P. Wilder, Rivers's
Favorite and Morocco plums. From E. M. Richards, Williams's Favorite
apples, fine ; Christiana melon. From J. Lovett, 2d, superior blackberries ;
Red Astrachan apples, fine. From H. Vandine, Yellow Gage, Yellow Honey
and Peach plums ; Early Harvest and Sopsavine apples.

Fruits tested. — From Mr. Richards, Christiana melon, very fine, sustain-
ing the character of this variety as being the earliest and best hardy melon.

HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS
for september.

fruit department.
Grape Vines in the greenhouse will now have fully matured their crop,
which may be gathered as soon as possible, in order that the house may be
cleansed and prepared for the plants next month. All the vines will re-
quire, will be to keep the laterals cut in, and to give an abundance of air to
ripen the wood. Vines in cold houses will now be ripening their crop, and
in cool weather should be kept rather close so as to ripen them as early as

432 Horticultural Operations for September.

possible ; discontinue watering the floors and walks after the berries are
Avell colored. Vines in pots should be sparingly watered now in order that
the growth may be somev/hat checked and the wood allowed to ripen Avell.

Strawberry Beds may be successfully made this month.

Fruit Trees may now be transplanted by carefully cutting off all the
leaves with the knife or a pair of scissors.

Summer Pruning should yet be kept up on vigorous growing trees, in
order that the flow of sap may be kept in check just at this season when
the flower buds are forming.

Peaches and Cherries should be budded this month.

FLOWER DEPARTMENT.

Dahlias, in consequence of the late abundant rains, have grown rapidly
and promise a great bloom. See that they are properly and judiciously
piruned and carefully tied up to tlae stakes. Water liberally if the weather
should prove dry.

Camellias should be top-dressed, washed, and got in readiness to remove
to their winter quarters next month, or as soon as the nights become frosty.

Pansies should be propagated this month.

White Lilies may be reset this month.

Pelargonium cuttings put in in July should now be sufficiently rooted to
pot off.

CixNERARiAS should have a shift as soon as the pots are full of roots.

Verbenas should be still propagated by layers for a winter stock.

Roses, for early forcing, should now be repotted and pruned.

Chrysanthemums should be layered, if not already done.

Chinese Primroses raised from seeds may now be potted off; old plants
may now have a shift into larger pots.

Hollyhocks should now be removed to tlie borders where they are to
bloom.

Sweet Williams should now be planted out of the seed beds into the
border.

Azaleas should now be rather sparingly watered so as to ripen the wood
and set their flower buds.

Heaths may have a shift now if they require it.

Achimenes may be brought on for a succession, and tliose done bloom-
ing may be placed away on a dry shelf

Japan Lilies done flowering should not be watered.

Orange and Lemon Trees may yet be bedded.

Schizanthuses should now be potted off into tliumb pots.

Cyclamens should now be repotted and more liberally watered.

Salvias should now be propagated for a spring stock.

Tulip Beds should now be prepared for-planting in October.

Victoria and Ten-week stocks should now be sown.

N^poLiTAN Violets should be planted out in frames this month.

IxiAs, Sparaxis and Oxalises may be planted this month.

Greenhouse Plants of all sorts should now be got ready for removal
to tlie house.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTURE-

OCTOBER, 1850.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. The Fruit Crop in Illinois ; Beautiful Prairie
Floivers ; Fine Forest Trees ; Insects ; Pear and Apple
Blight. In a Letter to Dr. E. Wight, Cor. Sec. Mass.
Hort. Soc. By Dr. J. A. Kinnicott, Northfield, Illinois.

Dear Sir, — As in duty bound, I should like to give you
a brief sketch of a month's tour through Central Suckerdom,
and into the Southern " Hawk-Eye" border. But I have
too many calls upon my time, as well as " draughts at sight"
upon my slender powers of composition.

I will now attempt nothing, but merely state that the
fruit crop throughout " the northwest" will be, upon the
whole, a very large one. There are no peaches seen, until
you get about one degree south of Chicago, and not many
until you approach the latitude of Peoria ; there they become
very abundant.

The apple crop is a fair one, everywhere, and the Pear,
in proportion to age of trees, is the greatest, because the
rarest, show we have.

Grapes are abundant where the Rose Bug has not destroyed'
them, and in the middle and southern parts of the state there
were oceans of the sour worthless Morello Cherry. There
were few of any other sorts. Even the Dukes are not
hardy with us.

I saw many beautiful, and some to me, new plants. An
herbaceous SpiRiEA, with purplish pink flower stem, white
petals and dark anthers ; tall, graceful and very showy ;

VOL. XVI. NO. X. 55

434 Forest Trees in Illinois.

possibly the lohata. A very showy malva ? on dry, sandy
prairiesj may be M. triangulata. Of plants known to me,
the tall Rudbeckia purpurea, with its conspicuous drooping
purple ray, was going out of flower ; but the yellow species,
especially the fulgida, were found in dense " beds" on dry
prairies, as gay as sunshine in spring.

Our native black or red mulberry, with its rich, broad
leaves, entire or lobed, and its very early, slightly tartish
fruit, I deem a very desirable tree for introduction. When
introduced, it improves in appearance and fruitfulness. The
woods border is full of beautiful trees, of second and third
magnitude, besides maples, oaks, elms, butternut, black
walnut, and bass wood, all fine shade trees. Of smaller
ones, you have Cercis canadensis, (Red bud,) and Gymno-
cladus canadensis, (Coffee tree.) What can be more graceful
than this hardy little tree, with its rich bipinnate leaves.

But I am forgetting the Rose Bug, in my enthusiasm for
trees. This pest has, this year, in many places, eaten every
thing he could " lay his teeth to," — flower, fruit, and foliage.
I was told that they had been gathered hy the bushel, by
shaking vines and fruit trees over sheets, &c.

What are we to do for or with these vermin ? The curculio
seems to have some limit to his or her fecundity, but this
disgusting and omnivorous Rose Bug, is as prolific as an
aphis.

And here is our native caterpillar, a little fellow, only
about five-eighths of an inch long, when grown ; with a
double row of dark beads on his back, and plenty of feet,
which he does not use to crawl beyond the limits of his nest.
This nest is often a large one ; sometimes only made over the
leaves of a single branch ; sometimes including two or more
branches that naturally meet. Within this silky nest, which
entirely envelops the devoted limb, or portion of foliage,
these rascals lie at their ease, ''suck the blood" of the tree,
and remove the entire corticle from both sides of the leaf,
leaving it a perfect skeleton, which, with its gauzy shroud,
has a most ghost-like look. And when the whole tree (as is
often the case.) has been colonized, and every leaf decorti-

I

Pear and Apple Blight. 435

cated, you can tell as well as I, what the ghost of a tree is
worth.

I wish somebody would send me Harris's work on Insects ;
though rather old for a new science, I believe I would study
Entomology. I inquired for this book, but could not find it
in the Chicago bookstores.

I wonder if insects are really more abundant of late years,
or are we noticing them more ? I think the latter most
likely. As our taste for good fruits improves, and our knowl-
edge of its excellence as food and medicine induces us to
plant largely, our interests and inclinations make us watch
carefully what we value highly, and we see more insects
because we look for them ; and yet the mischief they do is
incalculable.

But I must stop. How many of you may I hope to meet
in " The aueen City of the West ?" Next month is the
time, 11th, 12th and 13th. Rather early, perhaps. It is to
be hoped that " the cholera," (which I must think is full
cousin to the "pear tree blight,") may have left ere that time.
And this reminds me that I have said never a word about
the duince and Apple blight, except what I told you in my
last. But in many places, especially east of the Illinois
river, I saw orchards where from one-quarter to one-half of
the fastest groicing trees were blighted in the top ; all the
new, and often some inches of the last year's wood, black
and dead, giving the tree and orchard a more deadly look,
than even the caterpillar. I think it is the same as " pear
blight," an atmospheric disease. I have here one apple, one
pear, and several quinces — the latter badly affected. — In
much haste, John A. Kinnicott, Northfield, {late the Grove,)
Cook Co. Ill, August 8, 1850.

To Dr. E. Wight, Cor. Sec. Mass. Hort. Soc.

[We are glad to welcome the Doctor's letters to our pages,
and trust he will continue them, as they are read with much
interest by many of the members of our society. No one in
the West is better able to impart information which will
interest Eastern Pomologists.J

436 Polmaise Method of Heating Gree7ihoiises, Sfc.

Art. II. Polmaise Method of Heating Greenhouses and
Hothouses, compared with Hotwater, scientifically and
practically considered. By R. B. Leuchars.

{Continued, from p. 389.)

We will now proceed to take a view of the influence of
the atmospheres warmed by the two methods of heating
aheady mentioned.

It has been shown that animals cannot subsist in an at-
mosphere which has been warmed in its passage through
metallic tubes, and it has also been satisfactorily ascertained
that plants will not thrive in an atmosphere which has been
heated to a certain temperature, even though its due equiva-
lents of aqueous vapor be restored to it.

It is scarcely necessary to prove facts with which every
gardener is acquainted, regarding the extreme susceptibility
of many plants to the presence of deleterious gases in the
air which they respire. Indeed they are, in many instances,
more susceptible than animals ; we have often seen plants
injured by tobacco smoke, when myriads of aphides and
coccus remained alive. The facts are even more strikingly
sensible under the influence of sulphurous acid gas, as well
as chlorine, muriatic, hydrogen, and other gases ; by these,
many plants will be destroyed when insects remain uninjur-
ed ; and we have proved that to apply these gases in quan-
tity sufficient to exterminate insects, vegetation, if present,
must also suff"er. Sulphurous acid gas has been found to de-
stroy leaves in forty-eight hours, even when present only to the
amount of xoW of its volume, and the vapor arising from a
solution of corrosive sublimate has proved destructive to
vegetable life, even when its presence was inappreciable to
the senses.

Now, I am not aware that these gases are neutralized by
the evaporation of water in the house. We know that
when perfectly free from vapor, they expand ^{-^ or .002083
•for each degree of Fahrenheit, but then air is 20 times
.heavier at 100° than at 20°, i. e. it contains 20 times more

Polmaise Method of Heating Greenhouses, S^c. 437

vapor at the temperature of 100° than at 20°, and therefore
the expansive power of these gases must be decreased by
saturation, and consequently their escape from the house pre-
vented. The following Table, showing the quantity of
vapor contained in atmospheric air, at different temperatures,
computed from Dalton's experiments on the elastic force of
vapor, will be useful to those who are interested in this im-
portant subject : —

Tempera-
ture of air.

Quantity of Tapor

per cubic foot,
iu grains weight.

Tempera-
ture of air.

Quantity of vapor

per cubic foot,
in grains weight

Temperature
of air.

Quantity of vapor

per cubic foot,
in grains weiglit.

20°

1.52

48°

3.98

76°

9.53

22

1.64

50

4.24

78

10.16

24

1.76

52

4.52

80

10.78

26

1.90

54

4.82

82

11.49

28

2.03

56

5.13

84

32.20

30

2.25

58

5.51

86

12.91

32

2.32

60

5.83

88

13.61

a4

2.48

62

6.21

90

14.42

36

2.64

64

6.60

92

15.22

38

2.82

66

7.00

94

16.11

40

3.02

68

7.43

96

17.11

42

3.24

70

7.90

98

18.20

44

3.48

72

8.40

100

19.39

46

3.73

74

8.95

By the foregoing Table we find that a cubic foot of air at
the temperature of 20°, contains only 1.52 grains of moist-
ure, while the cubic foot of air at 100° contains 19.39 grains,
or nearly twenty times the amount.

Now, if the amount of moisture abstracted by the rarefied
air, the absorbing surfaces of flues or other bodies, must be
restored to the atmosphere by evaporation of water into the
house, then it appears evident that the internal atmosphere
must be kept continually at the point of saturation, through-
out the whole of the winter months, and this is precisely
how it is with many, the effects of which are no less injuri-
ous than excessive aridity ; for we all know very well, that
when not in a state of active growth, an excess of moisture
in the air, either with a high or low temperature, is prejudi-
cial to plants ; and in winter, plants are rarely in a condition
to bear an excess of moisture for any length of time.

438 Pobnaise Method of Heating Greenhouses, ^c.

If the temperature of the house is kept high, excitability
•will remain in a state of continued action, and the plant will
be deprived of that rest, which is allotted to it by nature,
and, consequently, though it may elongate its shoots, its
vital energies will be exhausted and its death will soon fol-
low. Instances of this have come under the observation of
€very one, where a high night temperature is kept up and
the atmosphere saturated with moisture ; the plants will ex-
pand their half-organized shoots during the night, but if the
sun shines on them the following day, the very rays that
should strengthen and consolidate their tissue are too power-
ful, even at mid-winter, and in a few minutes they appear
as if they had been plunged in boiling water, and ultimately
dry up ; this is the effect of excessive moisture and a high
temperature.

But, on the other hand, if the hygrometric state of the at-
mosphere be kept high, and the temperature low, the moist-
ure is then absorbed by the dormant leaves and branches of
the plants, without their being able to decompose it ; these
absorbent parts become distended with water and decompo-
sition takes place, — or what gardeners technically term damp-
ing off. These decomposing portions become covered with
a crop of microscopical fungi, and in many cases the decay
thus caused is attributed to attacks of insects or something
else than the real cause, to which, however, it is very easily
traceable, viz., the presence of moisture in excess in the at-
mosphere.

The same effects are produced on fruits in their process
of maturation, when the use of artificial heat from drying
and absorbing surfaces renders much evaporation necessary.
But under such circumstances evaporation should seldom be
resorted to, for the injury is more certain than the probable
good that will follow. A less humid atmosphere is more ad-
vantageous to fruits of all kinds, when the period of their
maturity approaches, than in the earlier stages of their
growth, and the excess of moisture necessary to restore the
aqueous vapor of the atmosphere of a hot-air stove, would
prove, — and in our experience has done so, — injurious to
forced fruits, and other vegetable productions.

Polmaise Method of Heating Greenhouses, 6^0. 439

We have already stated, in a previous paper, that the heat
radiated from hotwater pipes and smoke flues is precisely-
similar as regards purity. This statement, however, must
be read with a reservation, and though the statement is theo-
retically and absolutely correct, it is open to misconstruction.
Caloric radiated from the one body is just as pure as the
other, — their increments of moisture being just in proportion
to their increments of heat. Thus, if heat given off from
hotwater pipes be S0°, and heat from flues 80°, then both
have the same capacity for moisture, and both take the same
quantity of moisture from the house. This seems a paradox
to some gardeners but it is correct to the smallest decimal,
and it is difficult to get an intelligible reason of the common
expression used by gardeners, " that heat from hotwater pipes
is sweeter and purer than by any other means of heating."
This is an undeniable fact, but let it be attributed to the
right cause, and then, after all, we will find that the old
smoke flue does not deserve the character for impurity that
some would ascribe to it.

The unsuspected cause of the dryness of the atmosphere
in hothouses heated by smoke flues, is caused by the destruc-
tion of the aqueous vapor by absorbent surfaces of the ma-
terial of which they are built ; too often of very soft bricks.
Their power of absorbing the moisture of the air increases
rapidly with the softness of the material, and the tempera-
ture to which they are heated ; while the unabsorbent sur-
faces of hotwater pipes attracts no moisture at all.

This state of things is not, however, an inevitable condi-
tion of this method of heating, which serves to show how
comparatively little attention has been directed to the con-
struction of smoke flues. Notwithstanding the many sys-
tems of heating now brought into notice, we find the com-
mon flue, with all its faults and imperfections, just the self-
same thing it was a hundred years ago ; and instead of any
attempt to improve it, our apparatus improvers have intro-
duced various abortive methods which approach it in merit
just in proportion as they approach to it in construction. It
is true that the vapor is destroyed and gases eliminated by

440 Polmaise Method of Heating Greenhouses, ^c.

the flue as we too often find it, but the former can be to a
very great extent done away with, and the latter prevented
in toto.

We are fully satisfied that flues built well, of hard brick,
and covered with slate, when not heated beyond 100*^, radi-
ate a heat in every respect as pure as hotwater pipes ; no gas
is eliminated, and the absorption of vapors is almost inappre-
ciable.

It is essential to observe here that other causes of aridity
exist which are seldom taken into full consideration in judg-
ing the specific properties of the different methods of heat-
ing hothouses. The greatest of these is the radiation of
heat from the roof of the house, and the exit of the air from
the interstices of the glass. Before, therefore, a proper esti-
mate of the heat generated in a house can be made, this
ought to form a paramount consideration. By overlooking
these circumstances which are intimately connected with the
principles of heating hothouses, many of the plans hitherto
brought before the public can be considered as little better
than wild speculations, or fanciful whimsicalities, unsupport-
ed by any reasonable or practical foundation.

In a paper published by Mr. Daniell in the Transactions of
the London Horticultural Society, as far back as 1824, he
says that "the glass of a hothouse at night cannot exceed
the mean of the external and internal atmospheres, and tak-
ing the mean at 80° and 40°, then 20 degrees of dryness are
kept up in the interior of a house, or a degree of saturation
not exceeding .528. To this, in a clear night, we may add
at least 6 degrees for the eflfects of radiation, to which the
glass is particularly exposed,* which will reduce the hygro-

*The amount of external radiation differs under various circumstances, as in the
case of wind, exposure, &c., it increases in rapid ratio at very low temperatures, and in
our severe winters here, when the thermometer is below zero, the loss of heat by exter-
nal radiation is sometimes even as much as one third of the whole heat generated. Mr.
Daniell's allowance is evidently too low under any circumstances. I have come to a
tolerable estimate in clear nights by taking one quarter of the difference between the
two atmospheres, which in this case would be 10 degrees instead of 6. I have found no
accurate rule, however, that can be generally applicable to ascertain the exact amount
of heat radiated from hothouse roofs, as the result will differ widely in houses standing

Pohnaise Method of Heating Greenhouses, S^c. 441

metrical point to .424,* and this is a degree of dryness which
cannot be otherwise than injurious to vegetable life. It will
be allowed that this is not an extreme case, and much more
favorable than must occur during the winter season.

From what has already been said, the advantage of having
not only conducting, but also radiating bodies distributed
equally over the lower surface of the house, will be suffi-
ciently obvious, if we would obtain the advantage of the
laws by which heated bodies give off their caloric. To
effect this we must use conductors as well as radiators, other-
wise an equal distribution of heat cannot be obtained in a
hothouse. As a traveller and carrier of heat, hot water is
decidedly the best agent that has yet been discovered, and it
is matter of surprise that prejudices should still exist against
this excellent method. This, however, is only the case, as
we know from experience, where its merits and its principles
are alike imperfectly understood ; and, therefore, the failures
which have occurred in the practical application of this
method of heating, are distinctly referable to the want of a
proper knowledge in their construction and of the principles
on which they work. Its merits, however, will best appear
by the plainest statement of facts, and as no method, how-
ever perfect in itself, can give satisfaction unless properly
constructed and properly applied, and it may be remarked
that many apparatus have proved wholly abortive, through
the most trifling causes, I shall therefore proceed to describe
some of the causes of failure, and how success may be most
easily attained.

Boston, August, 1850.

( To he continued. )

close by each other. The Table of cooling bodies by radiation, given in a preceding
part of this article, page 336 of the September number, which is calculated from accu-
rate data, will assist the learner in his study of this part of our subject.

* It may be necessary here to explain what is meant by the point of saturation. The
natural scale of the hygrometer is included between the points of perfect dryness and
perfect moisture, the latter of course being that state of the atmosphere at which the daw
point coincides with that of the air. The intermediate degrees may be ascertained by
dividing the elaslicit}- of vapor at the temperature of the dew point by the elasticity at
the temperature of the air. The quotient will express the proportion of moisture actuai-
VOL. XVI. NO. X. 56

442 Notes and Recollections of a Visit to the

Art, III. Notes and Recollections of a Visit to the Nurse-
ries of Messrs. Hovey Sf Co., Cambridge. By London-

lENSIS.

The following notes were written for publication in one
of the gardening newspapers in London ; but a friend of the
writer, to whom the letter had been shown, was so much
gratified with them, that he has, with his permission, for-
warded us an extract, giving a brief account of a visit to the
grounds of Messrs. Hovey & Co., which, as showing the
opinions of a foreigner upon the extent and management of
American, nurseries, will be found very interesting : —

As you are already aware, I am not much prepossessed in
favor of the American method of nursery management, if
method it can be called ; the culture and keeping of them,
being apparently determined by the quantity of ground occu-
pied by the respective individuals. As to keeping, in its
general acceptation, it is, except in a few solitary instances,
unknown. The most striking feature in an American nur-
sery is the want of system, or method, in the disposition of
the grounds, and the arrangement of the articles for sale.
On calling at a nursery for a dozen pear trees, for instance,
you will probably be shown to as many different places
before you can decide which to take ; and, if the weather be
damp, certes, this is no pleasant business, as there are no
walks, and you may as well go through a ploughed field.
In short, the nurseries of this country present, with a few
exceptions, a inelange of weeds, and confusion.

I have said that there are some exceptions to this sweep-
ing statement ; and one of the most striking exceptions is
that of the nurseries of Messrs. Hovey & Co., at Cambridge,
near Boston, which I visited a short time since ; and, as

]y existing, to the quantity which would be required for saturation ; for, calling the term of
saturation 1.000, as the elasticity of vapor at the temperature of the air is to the elasticity
of vapor at the temperature of the dew point, so is the term of saturation to the actual
degree of moisture.

Nurseries of Messrs. Hovcy ^' Co.., Cambridge. 443

you have some correspondence with this house, and may-
wish to know some particulars about their establishment,
I shall give you some from notes and observations which I
made at the time of my visit.

The Cam.bridge nurseries are about two miles from the
city of Boston ; but such are the facilities for travelling, that
you can take an omnibus every few minutes of the day,
which lands you near the spot. The principal entrance is
on Cambridge street, a fine wide avenue leading to Harvard
University, just beyond. Entering by this gate you find
yourself upon a fine, smooth, promenade walk, about sixteen
feet wide, bordered on each side by circular masses of exotic
flowers ; directly in front of you stands a span-roofed plant-
house, or conservatory, of Grecian construction. It is about
ninety feet long and twenty feet wide, with a low span-
roof The entrance-front, which is ascended by a broad
flight of steps, is formed by a projecting part of the main
house, and comprises the office, gardener's room, &c. The
garden front shows a fine facade. The whole is highly fin-
ished with a heavy entablature, and pilasters between all the
sashes, which reach to the floor all round.

It is seldom that a house like this, in an architectural
point of view, is to be found in a nursery establishment ; and
its position is admirable, both as regards convenience and
effect. In front of this house is a fine open lawn, of an acre
or more, dotted with clumps of flowering plants, and single
trees of the rarer species, more particularly of the new weep-
ing trees and coniferae. This lawn is encircled by a broad
walk, on the lawn side of which are circular beds of the
choicest summer blooming plants. I did not much like this
multitude of circular beds, but it is the general style through-
out the country. The people here seem to have a Londonian
fondness for round figures ; but, with all my prejudice, I
must confess, that this part of the grounds looked more like
the private pleasure ground of some English gentleman than
that of a public nursery, and manifests, in a very striking
manner, the liberal and extensive scale on which the proprie-
tors of this establishment conduct all their operations.

444 Notes and Recollections of a Visit to the

The approach from the gate, on reaching this conserva-
tory, diverges east and west at right angles. That on the
left entering an avenue of maples, about thirty feet high, and
hung to the very ground with branches, so that their stems
are entirely hidden by the umbrageous foliage. This avenue
runs through the nursery, about a quarter of a mile in length,
at the extremity of which is the residence of Mr. C. M.
Hovey, a fine cottage, in the rural Gothic style, more fully
carried out than any I have seen. This extremity of the
avenue opens on another broad street to the city, and forms
another entrance to the grounds. Nothing can exceed the
beauty of this avenue ; and I am astonished that the landed
proprietors of this country do not take the example which is
here given them, and adorn their demesnes with avenues
like this. But they like better to cut down avenues here
than to plant them. To tell you the truth, I have never
seen anything so grand as this in the middle of a nursery,
either here or in England.

The other diverging walk leads to the plant houses, the
first of which is a structure of immense proportions, one hun-
dred by thirty feet, but so constructed and arranged as to be
admirably adapted for the purposes intended, viz., the growth
of large plants, chiefly planted out, in the borders of the
house. In short, it is a specimen house, and it contained, at
the time of my visit, many fine large specimens of Acacias,
Boronias, Abutilons, &c. The beautiful Abelia rupestris, five
feet high and two feet through, one mass of fragrant flowers ;
large bushes of the Cuphea platycentra, six feet high, and as
much in circumference, Cestrum aurantiacum, Gloxinias,
Gesnerias, Japan Liliums, of which there is a thousand seed-
lings, and — I had almost forgot — a Cryptomeria jajDonica, ten
feet high, the finest plant I have yet seen. I have not space
in this letter to enumerate all the plants in this house wor-
thy of notice, nor, indeed, in any of the others. I will just
mention that, in another house, also about one hundred feet
long, I saw a splendid collection of Geraniums, containing
the best and newest varieties, from your neighbor at Isle-
worth. The collection, altogether, amounts to about twenty
thousand plants.

Nurseries of Messrs. Hovey 4* Co.^ Cambridge. 445

The fruit department of this nursery, however, is by far
the most interesting and extensive that I have yet seen. It
occupies upwards of thirty-six acres, and contains upwards
of sixty thousand pear trees alone. Now, as yow are interest-
ed in this department of the business, I will describe the dis-
position of the ground, and the method of arrangement
pursued.

Ill the first place, the nursery is laid out in angular divis-
ions, diverging from a common centre. These divisions
are separated from each other by wide walks and avenues,
on each side of which is a border some eight or nine feet
wide. These borders are planted with specimen trees, in-
side of which are the quarters for the nursery stock. These
specimen trees are kept for the purpose of proving sorts, and
showing the habits and peculiar characters of the trees. I
have heard you praise up Rivers's nursery at Sawbridgeworth,
and its specimen trees ; but Rivers's nursery is nothing to
this. I believe there are above two thousand specimen trees
here, many of them now loaded with fruit. I understand
the proprietors of this establishment prove all their fruits be-
fore they send them out ; a plan which cannot be too much
recommended, especially as the majority of nurserymen too
often prove their fruit trees at the expense of those who
purchase them.

I observed a number of pears that had been planted out
last fall, with goodly crops of fruit on them, of fair size, and
of fine appearance. I was not aware that the method of
Mr. Rivers was adopted in this country, which I find is the
case here, viz., that of keeping fruit trees, especially pears,
in a prepared state, i. e., a fit state for removal at almost any
age, with a certainty of bearing a crop of fruit the same sea-
son. This is effected by lifting the trees every fall, by
which they form a large mass of fibrous roots, close to the
stem, and thus they may be carried to any distance, with
the sure prospect of bearing fruit the following season, if
planted in the autumn. I believe this is the only nursery in
America where this method is practised. But, in my opin-
ion, it is as profitless a method here, as it is in England —

446 Notes and Recollections of a Visit, &fc.

from the same cause — that few gentlemen fully consider the
value of a few years gained in their life-time, which is the
case by planting a handsome established tree in the fall, and
gathering a crop the following summer. But such trees cost
more money, " aye, there 's the rub." They will rather
buy trees one year from the bud, at a low rate, than pay two
or three dollars each for trees in a fruit-bearing state. Now,
in planting orchards, this is all very well ; but for those who
have only a few years before them to enjoy the produce of
their own planting, and who only want a few good fruit —
and want them as quickly as possible after planting — then
plant good healthy fruit-bearing trees, that have been annu-
ally removed, and if they are well cared for they will give
satisfaction. I would not by any means discourage the
planting of young trees, for they must be the stay and sup-
port of the fruit crop. But I would have planters who have
spent their lives in business pursuits, and who are on the
wrong side of sixty, to consider, when they are planting one
year old trees, that, before the trees may give them much
fruit, they may have ceased to require it.

In this nursery every sort of fruit is planted by itself, — not
in dozens, or even in hundreds, — but in thousands, one year
olds, two year olds, three year olds, and so forth, all by
themselves, so that you go, point blank, to the very thing
you want. Everything in the trade is to be found here, as
the proprietors spare no expense in securing everything they
hear of, and a finer stock of fruit trees is not to be found,
either in England or out of it.

Another point to which I will advert, is the keeping of
this nursery. Most nurseries are tolerably well kept for a
few rods round the entrance ; and on entering this one I
was not inclined to say much in favor of the beauty of its
borders, and the tidiness of its walks, but the impression
first made upon the mind, remains with you throughout ;
every place is clean, and everything in good order.

The proprietors of this establishment are gentlemen of
high standing, and thoroughly business men. One of them
superintends the seed business in the city, the other the

Salt and Lime for the Curculio. 447

nurseries at Cambridge. The latter gentleman possesses an
extraordinary knowledge of fruit and fruit trees, so much so
as to be able to distinguish almost any sort by the leaf or
wood ; and is, besides, a gentleman of great talent and learn-
ing. Mr. Hovey edits the Magazine of Horticulture, and is
the author of the Fruits of America, one of the most splendid
Pomological works ever published.

I was anxious to see these nurseries, having frequently
read about them ; and I assure you I was not disappointed.
The accounts which you say you have read of them in
England are by no means exaggerated. There are some
nurseries in this country which occupy a greater extent of
ground than these, but none where all the branches of the
nursery business are so extensively carried on, and so admi-
rably managed. I have omitted saying anything about the
flower grounds, which I shall do at a future time, as well as
some hasty notes of other places here, with my own strict-
ures thereon. ***** * — Londoniensis.

Boston, August, 1850.

Art. IY. Salt and Lime for the Curculio. By C. Good-
rich, Esq., Burlington, Vt.

Sir, — The following experiments, made by Mrs. Edwin
Benedict, of Plattsburgh, N. Y., may be useful in settling
the question, whether salting trees destroys the Curculio.
If you think so, use them as you see proper.

Experiment 1. Plums, about one-third grown, punctured,
and containing eggs of the Curculio, were placed in a com-
mon flower-pot, the last week in June. Soil from the gar-
den, about six inches deep in the pot. Fine salt about one-
quarter inch thick on the soil ; plums laid on the salt. The
grubs came out of the plums, passed through the salt into
the soil, and the perfect Curculios came out about August 1st.

Experiment 2. The same as the first, except that fresh
air-slacked lime was put on the surface of the soil instead of
salt. Result the same as the first.

448 Salt and Lime for the Curculio.

Experiment 3. The same as the first, except the pot was
filled with soil only. Result the same.

The pots all stood in the garden, exposed to the weather,
which was rather wet with frequent showers. They were
all wet and examined at the same time, about five weeks
after placing the plums in the pots, when there were perfect
insects in every stage of formation, from the white grub, near
the bottom of the pots, to the perfect beetle on the surface,
ready to fly. The salt had all washed into the soil, and
there was no difference in the appearance of the insects in
the three pots.

Experiment 4. Three bowls, one with salt on the sur-
face, one with lime, and one with nothing but soil, were
treated in every respect like Nos. 1, 2, and 3, excepting they
were placed under a shed so as not to be exposed to rains.
Results the same. '

Experiment 5. Curculios put in a tumbler, four plums
put with them, as they came from the trees, with one cov-
ered with fine salt. On the second day the salt had dis-
solved so as to leave the plum wet, with a strong brine,
when it was punctured by the insects in numerous places,
and eggs deposited in the same manner as in the plums not
salted. In another tumbler plums and insects were placed
in the same manner, excepting one plum was covered with
fresh lime. This was punctured in many places, and eggs
deposited the first day,

Mrs. Benedict also made experiments by covering the soil
about one-quarter of an inch with fine salt, and placing the
grubs as they came from the plums on the salt. They inva-
riably worked through the salt and went into the soil, in
about fifteen minutes, without any apparent injury.

I was at the house of Mr. Benedict one week since, when
Mrs. Benedict showed me a large tumbler, about two-thirds
filled with garden soil, m which she had placed the grubs
taken from the pots in the garden, when emptied about three
weeks previous. The tumbler was covered with a small
plate, and had plums placed on the top of the soil, which
had been often changed for fresh ones from the trees. There

Salt and Lime for the Curculio. 449

were numerous perfect insects among the plums, and very
active. Confinement did not seem to trouble them. In this
tumbler she placed a plum dipped in strong tobacco water,
which was soon punctured like the others. On emptying
the soil from the tumbler I found it filled with the insects,
in every stage of formation, from the apparently dormant
grub to the perfect one, ready to fly. The grubs had formed
small cells for themselves in a ball of earth, about half an
inch in diameter, which might be rolled across a table with-
out breaking. Mrs. Benedict intends to continue her experi-
ments, which if you wish I will send you hereafter.

Mrs. Benedict confirmed the statement of the brown beetle
or May-bug, made by Mr. Tuttle, and published in your
Magazine. She said that they had been so destructive this
season to their plum trees, that they had no remedy but to
destroy them ; that they caught twelve quarts on one even-
ing ; that they measured them, as taken, until they measured
two and a half bushels. That they caught in all more than
three bushels. She caught some and put in a lace net and
hung on a plum tree, and put in plums about one-third
grown. They would invariably eat the whole, excepting the
pits. They also invariably attacked the flowers of apples
and pears, and the leaves of the elm, butternut, oak, ash, and
willow.

It may not be improper to add, that Mrs. Benedict is the
most accomplished Lady Horticulturist I have ever met with,
— that her residence is on a farm about two miles from, and
in full view of, the lake ; soil a clayey loam. That while
her husband is almost constantly " in town" engaged in his
business as a merchant and manufacturer, she seems to man-
age the Home Department, and its appearance shows with
what success. Having plenty of room and numerous trees,
shrubs, vines, &c., &c., with more than one hundred plum>
trees of various kinds, her experiments are of more practical
value than if made in a village garden, with Hklf a dozen,
trees.

Burlington, Vt., August 26, 1850.

VOL. XVI. NO. X. 57

450 New Seedling Apple.

Art. V. Description of a New Seedling Apple, called
Rough and Ready, with sotne Account of its History, and
an Engraving of the Fruit. By Chas. P. Cowles, Esq.,
of Syracuse, N. Y. With a Note by the Editor.

Dear Sir. — As you are at the head of all Horticultural
publications in New England, I thought you might wish
to see the fruit of a new apple grown in this vicinity.
Then, if you thought it worthy of circulation, through your
interesting Monthly Magazine, I would give a few notes,
with a description, that you may dispose of them as you like.

As it is not known in this place, nor state, by the best
judges, I safely think it is a seedling. I found a few trees
in the Onondaga county, in a town of same name, which
had been circulated by grafts ; but nothing further could be
traced of its origin. It is much more esteemed than the
Early Harvest, with which it begins to ripen.

The specimens sent are of medium size, owing to its great
productiveness ; of the quality and beauty you may judge for
yourself. I have taken a sketch and a few rough notes,
which are at your disposal.

Fruit above medium size, oblong, largest at the base, grad-
ually narrowing to the eye. distinctly ribbed : Color, green,
when fully ripe of a beautiful straw color, tinged with a
bright blush on the sunny side : Flesh, tender and excellent,
fine grained, somewhat melting, of yellowish color, abundant
in juice, of an agreeable subacid flavor : Stalk, large and
stout, inclining to one side, from one to one and a half inches
in length, deeply inserted in an irregular cavity : Eye, small
and closed, segments reflexed, distinctly plaited. An abun-
dant bearer, with the remarkably good peculiarity of ripening
a long time, as wanted for use.

It commences the first of August, and lasts till into Sep-
tember. Tiee of vigorous growth, making a fine head. Wood
of light brown color, resembling the Porter, of stocky growth,
like the Gravenstein, in the nursery. Leaves glabrous above,
quite downy beneath. Owing to its great productiveness it

'New Seedling Apple. 451

makes but little annual growth. The ends of the twigs are
very stout and blunt, and of nearly the same size at the end
as at the joint. I propose to call it " Rough and Ready,"

Fig. 24. Rough and Readij.

from the fact of its being first tested during that campaign ;
and as it is a familiar one throughout the country, I have
sent specimens to numerous amateurs, with grafts to test its .
qualities in different localities, with this name.
Syracuse, N.Y., Aug. 1850.

Several fine specimens of the apples, accompanied with
the following letter to the President, Samuel Walker, Esq.,
were received by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, and
they were tested by the Fruit Committee, Avhose report will
be found in another page. It proves to be a new variety, at
least to Eastern pomologists, and well worthy of extensive
cultivation. We annex Mr. Cowies's note, which has been
placed in our hands by Mr. Walker : —

To the President of the Horticultural Society, Boston.
Dear Sir, — By express I send two dozen specimens of a new
native fruit to you, and through you to the members of
your society, that you may identify the name if it is

452 Descriptions and Engravings

known ; if not, to test its qualities as worthy of more general
culture.

Messrs. Downing, Barry and Thomas, think it a new variety.

It commences to ripen the first of August, and gradually
ripens as wanted for use, till middle of 9th month. In every
respect it is superior to the Early Harvest, and being such a
great bearer, as well as vigorous grower, is much esteemed
where known.

The specimens are below the average this year, owing to
its great productiveness ; but I hope they will carry safely,
that you may suiRciently examine them, to judge correctly.

It is but little known as yet, but where it is, its qualities
are much esteemed. As I cannot trace it from this place,
and not being known by those above distinguished pomolo-
gists, I think it must be a seedling. I propose to call it
" Rough and Ready," and have sent specimens three years
to test it.

You may hand this note to C. M. Hovey, Esq., that I have
annexed, and show him the fruit. There is also a new Pear
Seedling, that I saw last fall, that is superior to nine-tenths
of those in cultivation, and which has withstood the blight,
while others have all been killed around it. I hope to send
a specimen, if you shall desire it. — Respectfully, thy friend^
Charles P. Covvles.

To Samuel Walker, Esq., Pres. Hor. Sac, Boston.

Our thanks are due to Mr. Cowles, for his account of the
apple, and also for a few specimens, from which our drawing
Avas made. — Ed.

Art. VI. Descriptions and Engi'avitigs of Select Varieties
of Phinis. By the Editor.

The very favorable season for the plum in this vicin-
ity, and the abundant crops which have been produced,
have enabled us to secure drawings and descriptions of sev-
eral varieties, four of which we now give, in continuation of
our article in our last volume, (XV, p. 492.)

of Select Varieties of Plums. 453

13. Jefferson. Mag. of Hart, Yo\. XI, ip. 23.

So high a reputation has been given to this fine phim,
(fg. 25,) that it has been more generally sought after and
planted than any new variety of recent introduction. Mr.
Downing first gave an account of it in our Magazine, as
above quoted, and eulogized it as follows : — " When fully
ripe it is nearly — shall we not
say quite — equal in flavor to the
Green Gage, that unsurpassable
standard in this respect. But
when we compare the small and
insignificant appearance of the
Green Gage, with the unusual
size and beauty of this new
plum, we must admit that it
takes the very first rank."
The same account of it ap-
peared in the Fruits and Fruit
Trees of America, and as a
consequence, it was at once
inferred that this variety was
about to take the place of the Fig. 25. Jefferson.

old Green Gage ; but as the trees have now come generally
into bearing, this expectation has not been realized. The
Jefferson proves to be a most excellent plum, but no better
than many others of the same season. It possesses, however,
great beauty, and in this respect perhaps it equals, if not
surpasses, any other variety ; it has the same delicate yellow
skin as the Washington, but this is blotched and marbled, in
the most beautiful blending of tints, with crimson, lake and
rich purple. It also has the excellent characteristic of hang-
ing long upon the tree without rotting. Summing up all its
qualities, — size, beauty, and fine flavor, — it must be ranked
as a fine variety, answering as a very good substitute for the
Green Gage when that variety is gone, though falling short
of it in excellence.

454 Descriptions and Engravings

The tree grows similar to the Green Gage, making short,
stocky wood, and growing slowly when young. The
branches are smooth, and the leaves of a deep glossy green.

Size large, about two inches long, and one and three
quarters broad : Foi'in, roundish oval, narrowing most on one
side, near the stem ; suture distinct, running half round, one
side little larger than the other : Skin, fair, smooth, of deep
yellow, clouded, marbled, and dotted with bright crimson
and deep purplish red on the sunny side, and covered with a
thin, whitish bloom : Stem, medium length, little more than
half an inch long, moderately stout, and inserted in a small
circular rim, set nearly even with the surface : Flesh, yel-
lowish, thick, and melting, slightly adhering to the stone :
Juice, abundant, rich, sweet, and delicious : Stone, medium
size, ovate, sharply pointed, and nearly smooth. Ripe from
the 1st to the middle of September.

Prince's White Gage, \

_,, , . ^ I of some American collections.

r lushmg Gage,

14. Imperial Gage. Vnnce''s Pomological Manual, Yo\.\\.

Prince's White
Prince's Gage,
Flushing Gage,
Superior Green Gage,

The Imperial Gage {fig. 26,) is one of the most popular
plums cultivated. Of remarkably vigorous growth, an early
and abundant bearer, producing fruit of large size, and of
excellent quality, it possesses all the good qualities which
constitute a fine plum.

This variety was raised from seed, by the late Wm. Prince,
in his extensive nurseries at Flushing, Long Island, and has
been fully described in the Pomological Manual above
quoted. It has been disseminated under the name of the
White Gage, and in many collections it is still known only
under that name, while in many others it is grown as the
Green Gage, several instances of the latter having come un-
der our own observation. It is so distinct, however, from all
other plums, that there is little difficulty in distinguishing it.

The tree grows remarkably erect, making long, thick,
annual shoots, often seven or eight feet in a season, dark

of Select Varieties of Plums.

455

colored, aiid slightly downy. Its great productiveness may
be judged from the fact, that the crop of a single tree, grow-
ing in the garden of S. R. Johnson, of Charlestown, has been
sold for the very large sum of fifty dollars.

Size, large, about two inches long, and one and three
quarters broad : Form, roundish oval, regular, little flattened
at the base, narrowing to the
apex, with a very shallow
suture, one half slightly larger
than the other : Skin, fair,
smooth, dull greenish yellow,
distinctly streaked and clouded,
with pale green beneath, dotted
with brownish red around the
stem, and covered with a thin
whitish bloom : Stem, medium
length, little more ,than half an
inch long, moderately stout,
little curved, and deeply in-
serted in a round somewhat
open cavity: Flesh, yellowish
green, fine, melting, and very
juicy, separating from the stone : Flavor, rich, sprightly, and
delicious : Stone, roundish ovate, flattened, depressed at the
ends, smooth. Ripe early in September.

Imperial Gage.

15. Purple Favorite, Fruits and Fruit Trees of America.

The Purple Favorite {fig. 27,) is supposed to have
originated in the nurseries of Messrs. Downing, at New-
burgh, N, Y. The original tree, from which scions were
disseminated, died a few years since from old age ; and as-
no variety has ever been imported which could be identified
with it, it has been rightly supposed to be a native variety.
It is one of the finest plums, not excelled by anything but
the Green Gage, or the McLaughlin, and is worthy of a
place in every choice collection.

456 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Plums.

The tree grows rather slow, with slender upright shoots,
and nearly smooth wood.

Size^ medium, about one and three quarter inches long,
and one and a half broad :
Form^ roundish obovate, nar-
rowing to the stem, with a
scarcely perceptible suture, half
round, one side slightly lar-
ger than the other : Skin, rich
purplish red, dotted with gold-
en specks on the sunny side,
and covered with a thin violet
bloom : Stem, rather short,
about half an inch long, slen-
der, and inserted in a small
round cavity : Flesh, pale
green, very melting, and part-
ing freely from the stone: ^^s--'^- Purple Favorite.
Juice, remarkably abundant, rich, sweet and deliciously fla-
vored : Stone, very small, roundish ovate, very smooth. Ripe
in September.

16. McLaughlin.

Of all the acquisitions to our now extended list of Ameri-
can sorts of plums, the McLaughlin {fig. 28,) stands at the
head. It is in fact the only variety which can claim an
equality with the Green Gage ; a rank, we are aware, re-
markably high, but one which, we think, will be fully sus-
tained by further trial.

This fine fruit was raised by Mr. James McLaughlin, of
Bangor, Maine, and first fruited a few years since. It is yet
but very little disseminated, and has only fruited in three or
four collections out of its native locality. Scions were sent
to us four years ago, and the trees produced a few plums the
present season, thus proving it to be a rather early bearer.
It fully came up to the estimate we had given the variety
after eating specimens from the original tree, when we re-

Pomological Gossip. 457

ceived our .scions; and we shall be much mistaken if it does
not become one of the most popular of all plums.

The tree is a remarkably healthy and vigorous grower,
making very stout and remarkably short-jointed wood, with
more prominent shoulders to
the buds than even the Green
Gage, and with large deep
green foliage. Wood dark,
slightly downy.

Size, lai'ge, about one and
three quarter inches broad, and
one and five eighths long iForm,
roundish, regular, similar to the
Green Gage, but depressed at
each end, rather more broad
than long ; suture shallow,
with an indented apex : >S'/.:m,
fair, green, becoming yellowish
when ripe, mottled and dotted ^^s- ^S- McLaughlin.

with brownish red around the base, and covered with a thin
whitish bloom : Stem, short, about half an inch long, stout,
and inserted in a very small cavity, without depression :
Flesh, yellow, thick, very melting, and adhering to the stone :
Juice, abundant, rich, sugary, and perfectly luscious : Stone,
small, roundish ovate, obtusely pointed, nearly smooth. Ripe
the last of August.

Art. VII. Pomological Gossip.

De Montfort Plum. — This new plum, which has now
been introduced four or five years, fruited for the first time
this season, in the collection of Col. Wilder, and proves to
be an excellent early plum, having much of the character of
the Reine Claude Violet. It is about the same size, of the
same color, and similar to it in form. It will rank among
the best early varieties of this fruit.

VOL. XVI. NO. X. 58

458 Pomological Gossip.

Lewis Nectarines. — A basket of the most beautiful nec-
tarines we have ever yet seen, was exhibited a few days since
at the Hall of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, by
S. H. Perkins, Esq., of Brookline, of this splendid variety.
There were about thirty in number, and the average size was
about eight inches in circumference. A few of them, we
should judge, would measure nine inches, being as large as
the Early Crawford Peach. These specimens were the
produce of some of the old trees, which were set out by the
late S. G. Perkins, who first introduced this variety to notice,
and whose garden is now under the management of his son,
S. H. Perkins.

New Native Pear. — A new native pear was exhibited
before the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, by Messrs.
Hovey & Co., on the 31st of August, which will probably
prove to be the finest summer pear now known. The com-
mittee, on tasting the specimens, pronounced them " equal to
the Urbaniste in its finest condition," a recommendation of
the highest character which could be given to a fruit. The
pears are of large size, and beautiful appearance, attaining a
fine yellow hue when mature, with a delicate blush on the
sunny side, and ripen from the 15th to the 30th of August,
just before the Williams's Bon Chretien, or Bartlett. The
specimens were tried with the Rostiezer, Bloodgood, Dearborn's
Seedling, and other early pears, and did not sufler by com-
parison with either of them, while they have the additional
merit of being twice their size.

New Seedling Pear. — Mr. Dana, of Roxbury, exhibited a
new seedling pear, ripening about the same time as the
Bloodgood, and having something of its appearance ; it pos-
sesses, however, rather better qualities than the Bloodgood,
and, should it improve by cultivation, it promises to become
a very desirable acquisition.

The Red Astrachan Apple. — Mr. O. Johnson, of Lynn,
recently exhibited some specimens of this fine summer fruit,
which demand especial notice. They were the largest we
have ever seen, and most beautifully colored, with the deli-
cate bloom finely preserved in gathering. We have rarely

Pomological Gossip. 459

seen so fine a basket of apples, and Mr. Johnson deserves
great credit for his skill in the growth of this very desirable
variety.

New Seedling Strawberries. — Our transatlantic friends
are just now deluged with new seedling strawberries ; no
less than five or six being offered for sale, each of which is
advertised as possessing superior properties. As some of
our amateur cultivators of strawberries may like to procure
some of these new sorts, we give their names and reputed
merits : —

La Deliceuse. — Its distinguishing characters are, — the
plant of hardy habit and great productiveness of bearing ;
fruit rather above medium size, and of exquisitely rich flavor ;
color amber, like a Bigarreau cherry ; season late ; fruit
remaining good longer after ripe than other varieties.

Kitley^s Goliah. — Hardy, large, fine in color, a most ex-
cellent flavor, and forces well ; all parties who have seen it
growing, or tasted the fruit, have expressed their entire satis-
faction with it.

Wilniofs Prince Arthur. — Combines qualities which no
other kind at present in cultivation does possess, being of
delicious flavor, and coming in after the principal strawberry
season is over. The fruit is of the largest size, perfectly
formed, a most abundant bearer, and, if planted at the dis-
tance recommended, it will produce double the weight per
acre of any other variety.

MijaWs Surprise. — Raised from the British Q,ueen, which
it resembles, though of a more robust habit, and a very free
bearer, producing a greater abundance of those large angular
shaped berries than any other variety, and finishing ofl" the
fruit of a good size.

Britannia. — Possesses a combination of qualities, not to
be met with in any other at present in cultivation, being a
very strong grower, and an abundant bearer. It is as late as
the Elton pine, and much larger. It ripens well in any sit-
uation, and bears six or eight fruit on one stem

We venture to say that not one of all these will compare
with Keen's Seedling for general cultivation in the climate

460 Pomological Gossip.

of England. Mr. Wilmot, many years ago, raised a seedling
called Wilmot's Superb, which was figured in the Transac-
tions of the London Horticultural Society, and described as
one of the largest and finest sorts ever seen ; but it wholly
disappeared in a few years. Mr. Myatt has raised a dozen
or more seedlings, but none of them are worth anything but
the British Q,ueen. The Britannia strawberry, which is so
highly praised, only produces " six or eight fruit on one
stem," which at once tells its own story ; our American sorts
producing fifteen to twenty. We hope, however, some of
these sorts may find their way into our gardens, and have a
fair trial.

Wendell Pear. — This is the name given, in honor of our
correspondent, Dr. H. Wendell, to one of Van Mons's seed-
lings which has fruited in the Pomological Garden at Salem.
It is a summer pear, of excellent quality, and of medium
size, having a somewhat russetty skin, tinged with red on
the sunny side. We shall give a full description and engrav-
ing of it hereafter.

Twenty-Second Annual Exhibition of the Massachu-
setts Horticultural Society. — The annual exhibition for
1850, which has just closed, was one of the most remarka-
ble, as regards the collection of fruit, ever made by the society
— and probably one of the greatest ever made by any society,
either abroad or at home. The report of the exhibition
shows the immense number of pears and apples exhibited ;
and when we state that the specimens were finer than any
ever placed upon the society's tables, some idea may be
formed of the display. The whole of the society's hall,
usually devoted to the display of fruit, was entirely filled
with pears and grapes — and this, too, with an additional
table, erected for the express purpose of accommodating the
contributors ; the store below, as well as the library-room
of the society, was fitted up with broad tables, and these
were covered with the apples, peaches and plums ; the former
being shown in great variety, and of extraordinary size, fair-
ness and beauty. Indeed, the whole exhibition was highly
gratifying to every pomologist, and evinced the rapid pro-

I

Notes on GardeJis and Nurseries. 461

gress which has attended the culture of good fruit in the
neighborhood of Boston.

The prenfiiums awarded will be found in another page ;
but as it may interest many to know the varieties, we give
a list of them here : —

The best twelve varieties of twelve specimens each, which
obtained the first premium, were, Van Mons Leon le Clerc,
Dunmore, Beurre d'Anjou, Beurre d'Amalis, Golden Beurre of
Bilboa, Beurre Diel, Duchesse of Angouleme, Columbia,
Urbaniste, Glout Morceau, Le Cure and Catillac, in Mr.
Wilder's collection.

The second best twelve Avere : Knight's Monarch, Hull,
Swan's Orange, Beurre d'Anjou, Le Cure, Louise Bonne of
Jersey, Buerre d'Amalis, White Doyenne, Beurre Diel, Wil-
liams's Bon Chretien, Dunmore, and Beurre Seutin, in the
collection of Messrs. Hovey & Co,

The third best twelve were : Brown Beurre, Beurre Bosc,
Q,ueen of the Low Countries, Van Mons Leon le Clerc,
Winter Nelis, Dnchesse ofAngouleme, Louise Bonne of Jersey,
Beurre d'Amalis, Glout Morceau, Beurre Diel, ButFum and
Marie Louise, in the collection of Mr. Gordon.

These were all finely grown,, large, fair, and every way
splendid, giving evidence of what the several kinds will do
when under good management.

Art. VIIL Notes on Gardens and Nm'series.

Residence of Mrs. W. P. Winchester^ Camlridgc. We
recently visited this new place, but a short period after the
death of the late proprietor, and as we walked up the avenue
towards the mansion, a feeling of grief came over us, that one
who but a few weeks before was in the enjoyment of so
much beauty as this residence afforded, should rest in that
sleep which " knows no waking," almost within hearing of
the spot, where his hopes and expectations had concentrated,
and where years of contentment and happiness appeai-ed laid

462 Notes on Gardens and Nurseries.

up ill store, to be enjoyed in retirement from the busy mart
which had engrossed so many years of his early life. Truly
has it been said that in the death of Mr. Winchester, society
lost one of its most valued citizens. His kindness and be-
nevolence had drawn around him a large circle of friends,
and his highest pleasure appeared concentrated in the wish
to render his home attractive and cheerful to all. Every
part of the grounds bespoke this : several buildings for va-
rious amusements had been commenced, and the garden was
to receive a fine addition in the construction of a large
vinery and greenhouse.

Mr. Brown, the intelligent gardener, has greatly improved
the grounds since our last visit ; more especially the garden
department. This has been separated from the lawn by a
beautiful arbor vitae hedge, five hundred feet long, planted
last spring, and in fine condition after the favorable summer.
All the walks have been edged with box, and new ones laid
out. On the north side the foundation for the range of
glass had been laid, and we were highly gratified to learn
that it is the intention of Mrs. Winchester to carry out all the
plans which were contemplated, and to build up the houses
as speedily as possible, so that the vines may be planted the
ensuing spring.

The main avenue has been planted with a row of fine
Scotch larch, on each side, and the effect, when they get
well established, will be excellent. The trees of various
kinds planted last year have just begun to take hold, and add
greatly to the appearance of the avenue. It only astonished
us that Mr. Brown should be able to accomplish so much in
so short a time.

The sailing pond, with the exception of the walks around
the border, and the planting of a few trees on the island in
the centre, have been completed since last year, and a fine
boat-house, to combine a bathing-house, &c., was now just
being finished. Mrs. Winchester could not have a better
gardener to carry out what has been begun than Mr. Brown.
Under his charge this place Avill be one of the most attractive
around Boston.

The Farmer^s Guide. 463

REVIEW.

Art. I. The Farmers Guide to Scieiiiific and Practical
Agriculture. By Henry Stephens, F. R. S. E., author
of the Book of the Farm, &c., «Scc., assisted by John P.
Norton, A. M., Professor of Scientific Agriculture in Yale
College, New Haven. Nos. 1 to 8. Published in semi-
monthly numbers. New York.

We have neglected to notice this publication, eight num-
bers of which have now been issued. Mr. Stephens is al-
ready favorably known to American agriculturists as the
author of the Book of the Farm, a work which has passed
through one American edition. The Farmer's Guide is
merely a reissue of the same publication, but rendered much
more valuable by the notes of Professor Norton, of Yale
College, adapting it to this country. We regret that the
title of the work has been altered, but the publishers give
the following reasons for this course : — " It may be necessary
to explain to you, what we have not announced to the pub-
lic, that the title of the work is changed from that by which
the foreign portion of it is now known. The British author,
Mr. Stephens, published several years ago a work called
' The Book of the Farm,' which was republished in this
country, and is still in the market. The work we have
now commenced to publish is a second edition of that book,
published under a new title, with additions by Professor
Norton of Yale College, adapting the work to this country.
In adopting this new title, we have been actuated by a
desire to benefit all parties — the patrons of the work, the
publishers of the first edition, and ourselves. Although in
Great Britain it is called a second edition of the Book of the
Farm, we are assured by the British publisher, in successive
letters received from him, that ' it is so changed, enlarged,
and re-arranged, in short so thoroughly rewritten, as to be,
in fact, a new book.' * * * ' xYll discoveries in science, as
applied to agriculture, are of recent date, and are but sparingly
given in the first edition : whereas in the second, science, so

464 The Farmer^ s Guide.

far as it has been made available by practice^ is brought down
to the present time.'

" We feel justified, therefore, in changing the title, because
by so doing the public will not be deterred from purchasing
the v/ork, through fear of its being a mere copy of an old
book, and thus reject what they might otherwise be most
happy to procure. We also think the edition of the Book of
the Farm, already in the market, and the ^Farmers Guide,''
will be less likely to conflict with each other than if both
were published under the same title ; and hence any injury,
either to a brother publisher or to ourselves, by an improper
competition, will be avoided."

Of course, much of a work of so comprehensive a character,
written by an English agriculturist, must be but little adapted
to our climate and practice. Still, there is so much that is
important, and, in a degree necessary, for every farmer to
know, that it must prove a valuable addition to the library
of every individual interested in Agricultural Science. Pro-
fessor Norton's notes are given at length in the last number,
and contain a full review of all the subjects treated upon,
with such comments thereon as will elucidate the author's
views, and adapt the English practice to American hus-
bandry.

Did our limits allow, we should be pleased to give some
extracts from Mr. Stephens's chapter on the manufacture and
use of composts. We may do so at length at another time ;
at present we have only room to give two paragraphs, which
may interest those of our readers who think peat and ashes
the universal panacea : —

'^ The trouble," says Mr. Stephens, " attending the carting
of bog-turf, wheeling it to the side, exposing it to the air to
dry, and afterwards burning it to ashes, or carting it away for
compost, was much greater than the quantity of ashes, or the
quality of the compost obtained, Avould compensate."

" Two years' labor in the concoction of these materials
were sufficient to give me a distaste for the business, and at
length I dropped it, and went to the neighboring towns to

General Notices. 465

purchase street, stable, or cow manure, and bone dust. These
never disappointed me, and the eating of! the turnips which
they raised every year, with sheep, soon put the soil in a
fertile state."

This is precisely our experience. We have never found
stable manure to fail of producing a vigorous growth. The
same money paid in carting peat and ashes back and forth,
would, comparatively, ruin a crop, or starve an orchard.

The work will be completed in about 22 numbers, of 64
pages each, illustrated with numerous engravings and draw-
ings on steel, and furnished at the reasonable price of 25
cents per number, or $5 in advance, for the whole.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General JVotices.

Common Flowers. — Had Ave not seen the remarkable collection of
Messrs. Vilmorin-Andrieux and Co., we should not have believed that so
fine an effect could have been produced by annuals grown, nearly all of
them, in the open air. What beautiful effects might be had by means of
these common plants, many of which are of our climate, if we could only
grow and arrange them with the skill of these gentlemen ! Some of the
vases in this collection would most certainly not suffer though compared
with the most magnificent and attrattive objects in the exhibition. The
splendid tufts of Schizanthus Grahami and rubens will Avell bear to be
compared with any Pelargonium, even with the splendid Reine des Frantjais
which did M. Chauviere such great credit. We appeal to all good judges
or men of taste who saw the exhibition, to say whether we are not correct.
What could be more graceful than the vases of Rodanthe Manglesii,
Eucharidium grandiflorum, Viscaria oculata, of Clarkia, with its snow white
flowers ? What more magnificent than the Snapdragon, with its long spikes
streaked with yellow and purple, surpassing anything of the sort we ever
saw before ? Messrs. Vilmorin-Andrieux and Co. have a long established
reputation to maintain, and most assuredly it suffered nothing by their last
exhibition. Had we more room we should be delighted to describe in detail
the numerous species which the clever men in this establishment have placed
in the first rank among ornamental plants ; we should tarry over the delicate
clusters of Grasses grown in pots (Aira pulchella, Stipa pinnata, Briza
maxima, Lagurus ovatus, &c.,) whose airy, silky, or velvet panicles contrast
so well with their hair lilce foliage ; we should speak of those pretty violet-
colored composites (Brachycome iberidifolia ;) of those Everlastings with
VOL. XVI. NO. X. 59

466 General Notices.

their metallic carmine scales ; of those dwarf Wallflowers, with their
remarkably strange colors given them by consnnmiate skill ; but the small
space that is left us must be left to other horticulturists. — [Gard. Chron.
]850, p. 551.)

Ci'PHEA Platycentra. — As a bedding plant this is tlie best of all the
Cupheas. I may say it is second to none of any kind whatever, although
there may be many flowers more showy at a distance ; but upon closer
inspection there is none to be found more interesting, as its white-tipped
bright crimson tubular blossoms are very handsome. It also stands rough and
stormy weather much better than any of our more cherished flower garden
favoi-ites, and blooms well towards the latter end of the year. Its propaga-
tion and cultivation are very easy. Cuttings put in the first week in March,
in a little bottom heat, will strike freely. When struck tliey should be potted
off singly, and kept in a frame until April, when they should be hardened
off", and bedded out the latter end of May, where it will flower beautifully
until it is destroyed by frosts. — ( Gard. Jour., 1850, p. 664.)

Cultivation of Specoien Plants in 8 inch Pots. — Some men think
that to grow a flowering plant well, it must be planted in a tub, large enough
to support a moderate sized tree. Others, tliat the larger the plant is, the
more ramified the branches, and the more numerous tire leaves, tlie nearer
it approaches to perfection. Than such notions notliing can be more absurd.

Were our only object, in the cultivation of exotic flowering plants, to be
entirely confined to tlie magnitude of tlie plant, without regard to the pro-
duction of bloom, then no other plan could be adopted so likely to secure
this end. But as flowering exotics are only valued on account of the splen-
dor and abundance of their flowers, with a proper, not an overwhelming
amount of foliage, a very opposite course must be followed to bring about
this desired end.

Our mind has been directed for some time to this matter ; and, more es-
pecially, in reference to specimen plants brought forward for competition.
For as we not unfrequently see such plants on our exhibition tables, it looks
as if bulk of plant, witliout reference to quantity or quality of bloom, were
tlie perfection of principle aimed at by their owners, while, we thinly, that a
diametrically opposite standard of perfection ought to be borne in mind —
viz., the greatest possible amount of perfect blooms upon the smallest
amount of branches, and a well balanced proportion of foliage.

Take, for example, a geranium or pelargonium, (call it which you may,)
grow it in a large pot, in rich soil, stimulate it to tlie fullest extent, and pro-
duce a plant half as large as a hay-cock, what is the consequence — an abun-
dance of foliage, and a sad deficiency of bloom, and the majority even of tliat
(anytliing but perfect,) in proportion to the size of the plant and its means of
support. But who highly esteems this bundle of stalks and superfluity of
foliage ? Not we ; and we are not aloniJ in this opinion ; an opinion held by
all tiie best judges of what such a plant should be. We are glad to ob-
serve that the Horticultural Society of London follows tlie rule laid down
last year by the Caledonian Horticultural Society, namely, of having a class
for pelargoniums in 8-inch pots, a size sufficiently large for every useful

General Notices. 467

purpose, if the necessary conditions of high culture be attended to. And
with otlicr than higli cultivation Horticultural Societies should have nothing
to do. We saw the plants exhibited in that sized pot during the past sum-
mer, and although the amount of bloom was somewhat deficient in propor-
tion to what it might, and indeed ought, to have been, from the size of the
plants, it was sufficiently obvious to any one conversant with the matter,
that if plants of tlie size brought forward could be grown in eight-inch pots,
that there Avere only one or two steps further wanting to render them per-
fection itself, so far as the growth of the plant is concerned, namely, a much
greater number of flower trusses, and tliose larger and possessed of more
body in the petals. To effect Uiis, the point to be aimed at is the encour-
agement of a dwarfer habit of growth, with shorter jointed stems, without
the least addition to the size of the plant, or the number of their leaves,
■which would render the whole plant sufficiently strong, so that it should be
able to support itself almost, if not entirely, without stakes.

We hold, therefore, that 8-inch pots should be regarded as the maximum
size for one class at least, and that the cultivator, instead of seeking a larger
pot, or a larger plant, should set Kis wits to work (for the thing is quite pos-
sible) to double the number of flower trusses, to bring them more true to
character, and to give the individual flowers more size and consistency, or
thickness of petal. We will not refer to the form of the flower, or to the
arrangement of its coloring, but we would impress on tliose members of
Horticultural Societies, having the drawing up of the programmes for the
ensuing year, to hold fast by tlie doctrine of medium sized pots, and wait
the result of superior culture in them. To do otherwise, would be to retro-
grade instead of to advance, by giving up a principle not yet fully com-
pleted, and possibly only requiring another year's trial to bring to full ma-
turity. There are many other reasons for doing this, which we may allude
to at a future tune, for although our opinions may be unheeded in this mat-
ter, we think we have high authority for urging it on, seeing that the most
influential of all Horticultural Societies follows it. This same society, has,
by the way, this year, for the first time, a class for the azaleas, &c., limited
as to size of pot. This is following the idea of the Caledonian Horticul-
tural Society in some measure, who, last season, gave prizes for ericas re-
stricted as to height of plant, for the purpose we presume, of encouraging
growers, whose plants were in progress towards a size, which would enable
them to compete in the highest class. We are glad to see that our princi-
pal society has proved itself in advance in this particular.

We have heard a great deal of high ftirming of late ; let us not only hear
of, but see a little more high culture in plants brought for public competi-
tion ; and as one part of high farming is the production of tlie greatest pos-
sible amount of produce from the smallest space of ground, so also in like
manner, should high plant culture be regarded. — [Gard. Jovmal, 1850,
p. 585.)

[We particularly commend these remarks to our amateur cultivators and
to the attention of the Committee for establishing Premiums by the Massa-
chusetts Horticultural Society, in making up their schedule for 1851. They

468 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

express our views on tlie absurdity of growing plants as big as a hogshead.

—Ed.]

Art. II. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, Auguat 24. Exhibited. — Flowers : From Hovey & Co., P.
Barnes, Breck & Co., J. Nugent, J. Hovey, L. Davenport, Winship & Co.,
Mrs. PI Bass, Miss Kenrick, Miss Russell, A. Bowditch, and T. Needham,
dahlias, roses, cut flowers, &c.

, GRATUITIES AWARDED.

To A. BoAvditch, P. Barnes, Breck & Co., T. Needham, L. Davenport,
Miss Kenrick, Miss Russell, J. Hovey, T. Nugent, and Winship &
Co., $1 each.

Fruits : From J. Washburn, Manomet apples, large, beautiful and fine.
From C. E. Grant, blackberries, fine. From M. P. Wilder, Bloodgood and
Belle d'Aout pears and De Montfort plums. From S. Sutton, Washington
plums. From G. Merriam, fine blackberries. From F. King, apricots, fine.
From A. D. Weld, fine Williams' apples. From F. Dana, New Seedling
pears and Orange Sweet apples. From A. D. Williams &- Son, handsome
Williams' and Red Astrachan apples, and Italian Damask and Prince's
Gage plums. From J. Gordon, Williams' apples. From Jos, Lovett, Jar-
gonelle, Bloodgood, and Dearborn's Seedling pears, and fine blackberries.
From E. M. Richards, Benoni, Williams', and Sugar-loaf Pippin apples,
and Christiana melons. From Breck & Co., Summer Francreal and Belle
d'Aout pears. From O. Johnson, superior Red Astrachan and Bough
apples; Early Newington nectarines. Black figs, Fotheringham plums.
White Dutch currants, blackberries, and raspberries.

From Hovey & Co., fine Jargonelle, Summer Francreal, Truckhill Ber-
ganiot pears; White Frontignan, Muscat of Alexandria, and Macready's
Early W^hite grapes. From II. Vandine, Yellow Gage, Royal Hative,
Italian Damask and Yellow Honey plums. From C. Newhall, Benoni and
Early Strawberry apples. From C. P. Cowles, Syracuse, N. Y., Rough
and Ready apples.

Fruits tested by the committee : apples, from C. P. Cowles, a New Seed-
ling, called Rough and Ready, promises to rank with the best early apples.
Manomet Sweet apples, from J. Washburn, fine. A Seedling pear, from F.
Dana, of rich musk flavor, and promises well. De Montfort plums, from
Col. Wilder, of a delicious flavor. Macready's Early White grapes, from
Hovey & Co., fine.

August 31, An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, — the
President in the chair.

Communications from the Essex Institute, the R. I. Hort. Soc, and the
West Chester Hort. Soc. Avere read, inviting delegates to attend their exhi-
bitions.

S. Walker, C. M, Hovey, O. Johnson, and Jos, Lovett Avere appointed to

Massachusetts Horticultiiral Society. 4G9

attend the Essex Institute ; E. M. Richards, B. V. French, and C. New-
hall, the R. I. Hort. Soc. ; and J. S. Cabot, the West Chester Hort. Soc.

A communication was received from the Wilmington Hort. Soc, Dela-
ware, informing the Society that delegates had been chosen to attend the
annual exhibition of tliis Society.

[The following gentlemen were elected members, at tlie meeting August
17 : W. L. Nichols, Roxbury, and William Johnson, Boston.]

Exhibited. — Flowers : From tlie President, a fine collection of Seedling
phloxes, one a delicate Avhite, very pretty. From P. Barnes, a variety of
flowers, among which were the following new dahlias : — Boule de Feu, Mr.
Seldon, Gloriosa, Striata perfecta, &c. From Mrs. Winchester, by J. W.
Brown, a fine display of asters, dahlias, &c. Cut flowers, in variety, were
also sent by Breck & Co., J. Nugent, A. Bowditch, Mrs. E. A. Story, Win-
ship Si, Co., L. Davenport, I. Spear, Miss M. A. Kenrick, E. Wiuslow, J.
Hovey, George Walch, W. H. Foster, Miss Russell and others.

GRATUITIES AWARDED.

To p. Barnes, Breck & Co., Winship &l Co., J. Nugent, A. Bowditch,
J. W. Brown, J. Hovey, Mrs. E. A. Story, L. Davenport, Miss Russell,
and Miss M. A. Kenrick, $1 each.

Fruits : From B. V. French, Cabashea and Garden Royal apples. From
A. D. Weld, Williams' apples, very fine, and several sorts of pears.
From A Dexter, Bartlett pears and Deacon apples. From O. Johnson.
Bough apples, fine, and Bloodgood, Dearborn's Seedling, and Rostiezer
pears. From E. M. Richards, fine apples. From J. Washburn, Mano-
met apples, very fine, and Watson, Summer Rose, and other pears. From
J. Hyde tfc Son, an apple, supposed a seedling. From Jos. Lovett, Wil-
liams' apples, fine. From A. Parker, Harvard and Bartlett pears. From
E. Bemis, Winship's Seedling pears. From P. Baraes, fine Beurre d'Am-
alis pears. From Jos. Stickney, very fine Summer Francreal pears. From
M. P. Wilder, Summer Francreal, Striped Summer Francreal, and other
sorts of pears. From Messrs. Winship, Winship's Seedlings. From J. S.
Sleeper, Smnmer Rose pears. From F. King, Julieitne pears, fine. From
Hovey & Co., a new native pear, very handsome and fine ; Summer Franc-
real, Julienne, Orange Musqu6, (?) and other pears, and several kinds of
grapes, fine.

Fruits tested hy the Committee, ^iigtist 31st. — From Hyde & Son, an
apple, supposed a seedling, similar to the Williams. Duchess of Olden-
burg, from J. M. Earle ; brisk, lively flavor, good size, and handsome.
From E. F. King, apricots, supposed to be a seedling, resembling the
Orange. A small plum, from J. S. Sleeper, handsome, and of pleasant
flavor. Black Imperial, known also as the Bradshaw, from S. Hill, a large,
handsome, and fine early plum. Blue Gage, from O. Johnson, excellent.
A small blue plum, from tlie President, (unnamed,) fine flavor. Belle de
Feron pear, from Col. Wilder, poor. Limon pear, from J. M. Earle, good.
Gustin's Summer, not in eating.

From Hovey & Co., a new native pear, of good size, fair and handsome ;

470 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

of a brisk, vinous, saccharine flavor, ftilly equal to the Urbaniste, in its best
condition, and one of the very finest early pears.

PREBII0MS AWARDED FOR FRUITS.

Summer Apples. — For the best Summer apples, (Red Astrachan,) to O.
Johnson, $6.
For the second best, (Williams',) to A. D. Williams & Son, $i.
Summer Pears. — For ttae best Summer pears, (a new native variety,) to
Hovey & Co., $6.
For the second best, (Madeleine,) to Jos. Stickney, $4.
Currants. — For the best specimen, (White Dutch,) to Geo, Wilson, $5.

For the second best, (Red Dutch,) to O. Johnson, $3.
Raspberries. — For tlie best, to Capt, J. Lovett, for Knevet's Giant, $5.

For the second best, to Capt Lovett, for the Fastolff, $3.
Blackberries. — For the best, to Capt. Lovett, ^5-

For the second best, to C. E. Grant, $3.
Gooseberries. — For the best, to Capt. Lovett, for the Roaring Lion, $5.
For the second best, to J. Hovey, for the Whitesmith, $3.
A Gratuity of f3 to Dr. S. G. Howe, for a fine exhibition of different
sorts.
September 7. An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, —
the President in the chair.

The Vice Presidents were appointed a committee to receive delegates at-
tending the annual exhibition.

Adjourned one week, to September 14th.

Exhibited. — Flowers : From the President of tlie Society, J. Nugent,
Hovey & Co., P. Barnes, Breck & Co., T. Needham, and others, cut flow-
ers, bouquets, fce.

GRATUITIES AWARDED.

To L. Davenport, for fine roses, $2.

To P. Barnes, Breck & Co., J. Nugent, Winships, Mrs. Story, Miss
Kenrick, Miss Russell, J. Hovey, and A. Bowditch, $1 each.

Fruits : From O. Johnson, Summer Francreal, and one kind of pears
unnamed ; very fine Green Gage, Washington, Cooper's, Imperial Gage,
and Bradshaw plums. From S. H. Perkins, splendid specimens of Lewis
nectarines- From G. Merriam, Bartlett pears. From P. Barnes, Beurr6
d'Amalis pears. From C. E. Grant, Coolidge's Favorite peaches, and fine
blackberries. From Winship & Co., Golden Beurre of Bilboa, Belle et
Bonne, Hessel, Belle Lucrative, and other pears. From R. Crooker, Dia-
mond plums. From E. Bemis, Beurr6 d'Amalis and Bartlett pears. From
A. Parker, Chelmsford, Andrews and Bartlett pears. From J. Mann, a
basket of pears, plums, peaches, &c. From J. H. Blake, plums, unnamed.
From E. Wight, Orange Sweeting apples, Julienne pears, and the following
plums : — Nectarine, Jefferson, Red Perdrigon, Egg, Cooper's, (?) and Roy-
ale. From L. R. Mears, Seedling peaches. From W. W. Merrill, Wash-
ington plums. From A. Dexter, Deacon (?) apples and Bartlett pears.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. All

From James Nugent, Imperial Gage ploms. From Geo. Walsh, White
Gage, Bradshaw, Imperial Gage, and fine Green Gage plmiis; Bartlett
pears, and apples. From W. C. Strong, Roman, Elruge, Nowington,
Lewis, and 3 other sorts of nectarines ; Coe's Golden Drop plmns, 8 sorts of
grapes, and Cktolidge's Favorite peaches. From S. Driver, pears for a
name.

From Hovey & Co., Thomas, McLaughlan, and 2 other plums ; Cannon
Hall Muscat grapes ; Black figs, and pears, viz., Summer Bergamot, Vallee
Franche, Inconnue Cramoisine, Summer Francieal, Hessel, Colmar d'Ete,
Dearborn's Seedling ; also, Beechwood and Persian melons. From E. M.
Richards, Walpole and Haley's Nonsuch apples. From J. A. Kenrick,
Early Crawford and Coolidge's Favorite peaches. From .Tos. Lovett, fine
Green Gage plums, and blackberries. From A. Lackay, fine Green Gage
and Cooper's plums. From W. G. Lake, several varieties of apples and
pears. From J. F. Allen, Summer Francreal pears. From H. Vandine,
Ruling's Superb, Columbia, Bradshaw, and four other sorts of plums ; four
kinds of pears, and Williams' apples. From J. H. Welch, fine specimens
of Tyson pears ; from A. D. Webber, melons.

Fruits tested by the committee : Beechwood melons, from Messrs. Hovey
&, Co., fine.

Stpltmher 14. An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, the
President in the chair.

It was voted, that the President, Corresponding Secretary, and Recording
Secretary be a committee to prepare tickets for invited guests.

Adjourned one week, to September 21st.

Exhibited. — Flowers : The exliibition of German asters, for premium,
took place to-day, and the display was exceedingly fine ; but, owing to a
vote of the Society to close the hall, it was understood by some tliat tlie
exhibition was postponed ; in consequence of tliis, Messrs. Hovey & Co.
entered their flowers too late for premium. The contributors were L. Da-
venport, I. Spear, and J. Nugent.

AWARD OF PREMIUMS.

German Asters. — For the best display, a premium of $4, to I. Spear.
For tlie second best, $3, to J. Nugent.
For the third best, $2, to L. Davenport.

September 17, 18, 19, and 20. The Twenty-Sec o.vd Annual Exhi-
bition OF the Society took place on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thurs-
day, and Friday, the 17th, 18th, IDth, and 20th of September. On this
occasion, to accommodate the increasing contributions of the members, the
whole of the Society's building was put in requisition. The store occu-
pied by Mr. Bowditch and the library room were cleared, and fitted up
witli tables, for fruit and vegetables. In the hall two tables were put up,
whose combined length was one hundred and fifty feet. These were
wholly filled with the pears and grapes ; the apples, plums, peaches, &c.,
occupied the central tables below, and the vegetables filled the side stands.
The entrance to the hall was through an arch, open on three sides, deco-

472 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

rated with evergi-eens, and surmounted with the inscription " Twenty-sec-
ond Annual Exhibition of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society."

The show of plants and flowers was rather small, owing to the limited
space, but those exhibited were principally specimens of great beauty — the
most proininent ones were SchubertJa graveolens, two clerodendrons, Abelia
rupestris, and several fine fuchsias, and other plants, from Messrs. Hovey
& Co., and a few orchids, from J. A. Lowell. The flower stands were filled
with roses, asters, and dahlias. Some of the large bouquets were very fine,
and a few small floral ornaments added to the appearance of the display.

The exhibition of fruit was, we hesitate not to say, by far the most exten-
sive and choice ever made, either at home or abroad. The pears were not
only shown in large variety, but many of the specimens were larger and
more beautiful than any heretofore exhibited. We have only room to particu-
larize a few of the more remarkable, — these were the Doyenn6 Boussock,
from W. Davis ; the Beurre Diel, from W. Bacon ; the Van Mons Leon le
Clerc, of Mr. Wilder ; the Swan's Orange and Beurre d'Anjou, of Messrs.
Hovey; the former' of which were fully equal in size and beauty to the
Rochester specimens exhibited in 1848 and 1849 : the Louise Bonne of Jer-
sey, of Mr. Bemis ; the Golden Beurre of Bilboa, of Messrs. Richards and
Fay ; the Andrews, of Messrs. Crafts & Dana ; and tlie Bartlett, from Mr.
Maclntyre, ninety of which, from one small tree, filled a large basket. The
apples Avere very fine, especially the collection of Mr. French, which was,
of itself, a good exhibition, containing upwards of one hundred and forty
kinds, some of them very large and handsome. Grapes were poorer than
usual, owing to the cool summer, and but few of those exhibited were fully
colored or ripened.

Plants. — From Messrs. Hovey & Co., a large collection, among which
were Schub^rtia graveolens, Clerodendron infortunatura and squamatum.
Plumbago Larpentffi, RondeletzVf speciosa, Abelia rupestris, Russellia jvin-
cea, Cupliea platj^c^ntra ; six or eight kinds of fuchsias, achimenes of all
sorts, &c. From M. P. Wilder, the beautiful new Achimenes gloxinse-
flora and insignis. From J. A. Lowell, a collection of plants, among which
were several orchids.

Dahlias, Asters, Cut Flowers, &c. — From Breck & Co., dahlias,
and other flowers. From Hovey & Co., 2 large bouquets, for the Bradlee
vases ; 2 parlor bouquets, German asters, and 20 var. of verbenas. From J.
Nugent, 2 bouquets, for the Society vases ; 2 parlor bouquets, and cut
flowers. Other contributors Avere, O. N. Towne, A. Bowditch, Miss Rus-
sell, Miss L. A. Kingsley, J. Hovey, J. Black, C. A. Hewens, L Spear, L.
Davenport, P. Barnes, Winship & Co., T. Owens, H. Grundel, and others.
Mrs. William Kenrick sent two lyres, in different styles, neatly made ; and
Mrs. E. A. Story a floral grotto.

PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED FOR FLOWERS, &C.

Plants in Pots. — For the best display, of not less than 20 pots, to
Hovey & Co., $12.
For the second best, to M. P. Wilder, $10.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 473

For the tliird best, to T. On^ens, $8.
Vase Bouquets. — For the best pair, for the Bradlee vases, to Hovey &
Co., $10.

For the second best, to John Black, ^8.

For the best pair, for the Society's vases, to J. Nugent, $10.

For the second best, to VVinship & Co., .$8.
Parlor BouquETs. — For the best pair, to Jas. Nugent, $8.

For the second best, to Hovey & Co., $6.
Gratuities. — To Mrs. W. Kenrick, for two floral lyres, $.5.

To Mrs. E. A. Story, for a floral grotto, S5.

To Miss Russell, for bouquets, $;3.

To O. N. Towne, for bouquets, $9.

To P. H. Pierce, for bouquets, $2.

To A. Bo wd itch, for bouquets, $2.

To Miss L. A. Kingsley, J. Hovey, and L. Davenport, for bouquets,
%\ each.
Fruits. — From the President of the Society, 112 varieties of pears,
among which, in addition to the older sorts, were the Beurre Goubault, B.
Langelier, B. Triquier, Bordenave, (Smith's,) Bonne de Zees, Broom Park,
Charlotte de Brower, Champagne, Colmar d'Ete, Delices de Jodoigne, (?)
Duchesse of Orleans, Episcopal, Figue, Gendesheini, Hobson, Hull, LaAv-
rence. Monarch, MacLaughlin, Oliver's Russet, Oswego Beun-6, Quilletette,
Swan's Orange, Sabine d'hiver, St. Mesmire, Souverain d'Ete, Tyson, Van
Mons Leon le Clerc, Wilbur & Williams' Early; also, one variety of
plums, Avithout name.

From M. P. Wilder, 210 varieties of pears, among which, in addition to
the older sorts, were Abondance, Angleterre Noisette, Adele St. Denis,
Belle Craonaise, Benoits, Belle de Trois, Beurr6 d'Anjou, B. de Waterloo,
B. Coloma, B. Goubault, B. de Rouineau, B. Langelier, B. du Rhine, B. de
Nerckinan, B. Sterkman, B. Judes, B. Cornu, B. Seutin, B. Derminer, B.
Clair, Blanc de Carney, Bois Napoleon, Beurre Grand Montrouge, Barnad-
iston, Bezi de Veterans, B. de Malines, Brougham, Beau present d'Artois,
Baronne de Mello, Cadet de Vaux, Comtc de Frittilly, Calhoun, Colmar
d'Ete, Chas. Van Mons, Clay, Cent Couronne, Conseilleur Ramuez, Char-
lotte de BroAver, Duchesse of Orleans, Dallas, Doyenne Goubault, D. Sterk-
man, D. de Nerckman, De Lepine, Elizabeth, (Edwards's,) EdAvards's Sum-
mer, Exquis, Francis, (EdAvards's,) Fondante de Malines, Fondante de
Charneuse, F. de Millot, Ferdinand do Meester, Grand Bretagne, Grand
Soliel, Grain de Coral, Gris de Bouchard, Howell, Hericart, Inconnue Van-
Mons, Jalousie Nouvclle, Jalvie, Knight's R. L Seedling, Las Canas, Law-
rence, Moccas, Monarch, McLaughlin, Napoleon d'hiver, Nouveau Poiteau,
Nov. Simon Bouvier, Oliver's Russet, Parisi^lle, Poire de Jacob, Princess
Royal, Passe Jardine, Rameaux, Rondelet, Sabine Nouvelle, Sansparielle,
St. Michael Archangel, St. Andrfc, SAvan's Orange, St. Bernard, St. Quen-
tin, Serruricr, Tea, Tarquin de Pyrenees, William Prince, Wescott, &c.
From the Pomological Garden of R. Manning, 110 varieties of pears,.
VOL. XVI. NO. X. 60

474 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

among them the Lawrence, Duchesse of Orleans, Comte Lelieur, March
Bergamot, Moccas, Monarch, Petre, Shobden Court, Howell, Henkel, Doy-
enne Goubault, Styrian, Wilbur, Dallas, Serrurier d'Automne, Coter, Whit-
field, Henrietta, Locke, Jubin, Walker, Rameaux, Clara, Nouveau Poiteau,
Brande's St. Germain, Henri Van Mons, Wendell, Nos. 982, 103G, 1434
V. Mons, &c. ; also, 25 varieties of apples.

From Hovey & Co., 100 varieties of pears, among which, in addition to
older kinds, were Swan's Orange, Monarch, Hull, Beurre d'Anjou, Jersey
Gratioli, Beurre Quentin, B. Seutin, B. Goubault, Hill's Fall Butter, Col-
uiar d'Ete, Truckhill Bergamot, Sargeret, (V. M.) Inconnue Van Mons,
Styrian, Inconnue Cramoisine, Las Canas, Duchesse of Orleans, Beurre
Langelier, Episcopal, Belle Craonaise, Belle de Noel, Downton, Doyenn6
Santelete, Doyenne Boussock, Henkel, Lawrence, St. Michael Archangel,
Louis d'Orleans, Nouveau Poiteau, (?) Belle de Thenars, Guernsey Beurre,
Welbeck Bergamot, Oliver's Russet, Cabot, St. Dorotliee, Whitfield, Poire
Devack, Bergamot Leseble, &c., &c. ; also, Hormead Pearmain, and 7
other sorts of apples; Purple Favorite, Thomas, and 3 other kinds of
plums ; 5 kinds of peaches, and the following grapes : — Cannon Hall Mus-
cat, Muscat of Alexandria, Tottenham Park Muscat, Grizzly Frontignan,
Black Hamburgh, Wilmot's B. Hamburgh, Black Prince and Syrian.

From J. S. Cabot, 86 varieties of pears, among them the Hericart, Bouc-
quia, Columbia, Duvivier, Notaire Minot, Doyenn6 Boussock, Celestin, Belle
Excellent, Josephine de Malines, Navez, Beurre Goubault, Bergamot Libbi-
tent verte, Plombgastel, Las Canas, Chartreuse, Fondante de Malines, Ves-
ouviere, Belle Craonaise, Cabot, Welbeck Bergamot, St. Andr6, Pennsylva-
nia, Capucin V. M., Payency, Van Buren, Dallas, Brande's St. Germain,
Nouveau Poiteau, Wilbur, Rameaux, &c., &.c.

From B. V. French, 85 varieties of pears, containing, besides the well-
known sorts, the Beurr6 Duval, Boucquia, Beurr^ Goubault, Beurr6 gris
d'hiver. Duchess of Orleans, Stevens's Genesee, Sabine, Edwards's Eliza-
beth, and 20 unnamed ; also, 141 varieties of apples, among tliem the La-
dies' Sweet, Ross Nonpariel, Esopus Spitzenberg, Ribston Pippin, Fameuse,
Pomme Gris, Gravenstein, Lyscom, Peck's Pleasant, Garden Royal, Fall
Harvey, 20-Ounce, Hartford Sweet, Jonathan, Minister, Seek-no-Furtlier,
Alexander, Drap d'or, Lucombe's Seedling, Melvin Sweet, Mexico, Holmes,
Canada Reinette, Newark King, Wellington, Ortley, Mela Carla, Haw-
thorndean, Wine, Ramshorn, Long Nonsuch, Jericho, and 25 unnamed.

From Breck & Chamberlain, 44 varieties of pears, among them the
Bonne de Zees, Beurr^ Bruneau, B. Bureal, Colmar Nelis, Vicompte de
Spoelberch, Duchesse d'Angouleme panache, Doyenn6 Goubault, Figue,
Payency, Sabine, Swan's Orange, &c.

From Jos. Lovett, 43 varieties of pears, among them Cranston Seedling,
King Edward, Tyson, Van Mons Leon le Clerc, Beurr6 Goubault, Paradise
of Autumn, Queen of the Low Countries, Swan's Orange, Columbia, Aman-
des Double, Boucquia, Pennsylvania, &c. ; also. Minister, Porter, Fameuse,
and Cabashea apples, and Yellow Magnum Bonum plums.

From O. Jolmson, 30 varieties of pears, among which were tlie Beurre

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 475

d'Anjou, "Van Mons Leon le Clerc, Hericart, Welbeck Bergamot, For-
tun^e, &c,, &c.

From John Gordon, 36 varieties of pears, including the Queen of the Low
Countries, Winter Nelis, Stevens's Genesee, Hill's Fall Butter, Swan's
Orange, Beurre Bosc, &c. ; also, Sharp's Emperor, Jefferson, and 3 other
plums, and Black Hamburgh and White Frontignan grapes.

From Winship & Co., 35 varieties of pears, including the Oregon (Seed-
ling,) Triumph de Louvain, Pain et Vin, Baronne de Mello, Reine d'hiver,
Bergamot Sargeret, Sargeret, De Lepene, Beurr6 St. Nicholas, Fortuned,
&c. ; also. Cathead and Grand Sachem apples.

From Jos. Stickney, 32 varieties of pears, including Coffin's Virgoulouse,
Columbia, Sieullc, Dunmore, Truckhill Bergamot, Colmar Nicl, Beurr^,
gris d'hiver Nouveau, &c. ; also, 16 varieties of apples, among them the
20-Ounce, Minister, Esopus Spitzenberg, Ribston Pippin, Seaver Sweet,
Hub. Nonsuch, &.c.

From John Washburn, 31 varieties of pears, among which were the
Thompson, Oswego Beurre, Swan's Orange, Dunmore, Knight's R. I.
Seedling, Doyenne Boussock, Doyenne Goubault, Beurre Goubault, Cabot,
Edwards's Elizabeth, Lawrence, Beurre d'Anjou, Fondante de Malines,
&;c. ; also. Holmes, Minister, and Hubbardston Nonsuch apples, and Coe's
Golden Drop plums.

From II. Vandine, 30 varieties of pears, including Stevens's Genesee,
Van Mons Leon le Clerc, Prince's St. Germain, &c. ; also, 15 kinds of
plums, among them, Hulings's Superb, Sharp's Emperor, Coe's Golden
Drop, Duane's Purple, Imperial Gage, &c. ; Porter apples, persimmons, and
peaches.

From G. R. Russell, 12 varieties of pears ; 12 varieties of apples, among
them the Monmouth Pippin, and Peck's Pleasant; also, 11 varieties of
grapes, including the Muscat of Alexandria, Wilmot's Black Hamburgh,
Syrian, Frankindale, Red Chasselas, White Nice, Grizzly, and White Fron-
tignan, &c.

From R. Crooker, 27 varieties of pears, including Swan's Orange, Doy-
enne Boussock, Beurre Goubault, Colmar d'Arembcrg, Doyenne Goubault,
Van Mons Loon le Clerc, Jalousie de Fontonay Vendee, &c., &c.

From A. D. Williams & Son, 35 varieties of pears, among them, the
Williams's Early, Belle Lucrative, Andrews, Beurre d'Aremberg, and sev-
eral unnamed ; also, 40 varieties of apples, many of tliem unnamed.

From A. A. Andrews, 20 varieties of pears, among them, the Triumph
de Jodoigne, Fulton, Colmar d'Aremberg, Van Mons I^eon le Clerc, Bon
Chretien Fondante, &c. ; also, 4 varieties of apples and pears, unnamed.

From E. M. Richards, 12 varieties of pears, and 17 varieties of apples,
among the latter, tlie Minister, Fameuse, Lyscom, Walpole, Tewksbury
W. Blush, Fall Pippin, &.c. ; 5 varieties of peaches; Jefferson plums, and
Christiana Melons. From J. A. Hall, Raynham, 13 varieties of peaches, 9
var. of apples, and 4 of pears. From Z. L. Raymond, Bartlett pears. From
Dr. N. Durfee, Fall River, Muscat of Alexandria, St. Peters, Syrian, To-
kay, (?) White Frontignan, and Black Hamburgh grapes. From W. C.

476 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Strong, Lombardy, M. of Alexandria, St. Peters, Grizzly, and White Fron-
tignan, and 5 otlier sorts of grapes ; Roman and Elruge nectarines, Snow
peaches, Le Cure pears, and one var. of plums. From W. S. Lake, 22 va-
rieties of apples, 4 of plums, 10 of peaches, 2 of grapes, and 18 of pears.
From A. Lackay, 7 varieties of plums, among tliem the Coe's Golden Drop,
Jefferson, and Corse's Field Marshal ; 8 varieties of pears, and Benoni
apples.

From N, Stetson, 7 varieties of grapes, including the Cannon Hall Mus-
cat, Muscat of Alexandria, Victoria, VVilmot's B. Hamburgh No. 16, &c. ;
5 varieties of pears, fine Early Crawford peaches, and apples. From A. D.
Weld, 20 varieties of apples, 24 var. of pears, (17 unnamed,) and 3 sorts of
peaches. From A. Dexter, 15 varieties of pears, 7 var. of apples, and 3 of
peaches. From I. Fay, 15 varieties of pears. From J. W. Rogers, 6 va-
rieties of pears. From Messrs. Stone & Co., Newton, 11 var. of apples, 3
of pears, and 2 of grapes. From Geo. Wilson, fine Gansell's Bergamot,
Paradise of Autumn, Chaumontelle, and Beurre Diel pears. From W. J.
Niles, 4 varieties of pears. From W. Bacon, very fine Beurre Did pears.
From Francis Geo. Shaw, Black Hamburgh, White Muscadine, and Red
Chasselas grapes, raised on Mr. CraAvshay's plan, detailed in our Maga-
zine, (Vol. IX, p. 86 to 96.) [These were excellent.]

From Samuel Downer, Jr., 16 varieties of pears, among them very fine
Columbia, Passe Colmar, Andrews, Easter Beurr6, Le Cure, Urbaniste, &c.
From A. Parker, 11 var. of apples and 2 of pears. From John Dane, fine
Early Crawford peaches. From B. F. Nourse, Bangor, 12 var. of plmiis,
among tliem fine Jefferson, Washington, Purple Favorite, Reine Claude de
Bavay, Columbia, &c. From B. Hemmenway, Early Crawford peaches.
From J. Allen, Doyenne Boussock pears. From J. Hooper, Jr., 3 var. of
pears. From J. Mann, fine Beurre Bosc, and 2 other sorts of pears. From
J. N. Turner, peaches. From M. H. Simpson, Black Hamburgh grapes,
growing on the plant, and Wilmot's Black Hamburgh. From J. A. Ken-
rick, 6 varieties of pears, 4 of apples, and Lemon Rareripe (?) peaches.
From W. A. Crafts, 7 varieties of pears and 2 of peaches. From F. Marsh,
DLx pears. From J. W. Foster, Baldwin apples, and Dolbear peaches.
From W. B. Kingsbury, Merriam pears, and Dutch Codlin apples. From
G. Merriam, fine Early Crawford peaches.

From Jas. Eustis, 27 varieties of apples, among them the Ben, Graven-
stein, Golden Ball, Jewett's Red, Killiam Hill, Minister, Boxford, &c.
From J. A. Lowell, Muscat of Alexandria, and 2 other sorts of grapes.
From J. B. Moore, Concord, 15 varieties of apples, 2 of pears, and fine
Long Carolina, Mountain Sweet, and Black Spanish Watermelons. From
F. Dana, Andrews, Beurre d'Amalis, Louise Bonne of Jersey, and 3 Seed-
ling pears ; also, 3 sorts of peaches. From H. B. Stanwood, 3 varieties of
pears, and 2 of apples. From S. Driver, 11 varieties of pears, one of them
unnamed, supposed to be new. From C. N. Brackett, 4 varieties of pears.
From A. D. Webber, 10 varieties of pears, and fine Citron melons. From
D. H. Richards, fine Golden Beurre of Bilboa pears. From Geo. Walsh, 7

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 477

var. of pears, 7 of apples, and 4 of plums. From W. Hewens, 6 var, of
pears, and Seedling peaches.

From H. Vail, Troy, N. Y., White Doyenne, Gansell's Bergamot, Bart-
lett, and Duchess of Angouleme pears. From N. Harris, Brookline, 6
varieties of pears, 3 var. of peaclies, and grapes without name. From E.
Tufts, fine Tufts, R. I. Greening, Rox. Russett, Baldwin, and a Seedling
variety of apples. From W. Lewis, nectarines. From R. Bartlett, Lynn,
Lombard plums and Seedling peaches. From E. Bemis, splendid Louise
Bonne of Jersey pears. From J. W. Gates, Cambridge, fine Early Craw-
ford peaches. From B. Wheeler, Framingham, 4 varieties of peaches.
From S. L. Goodale, Saco, 3 var. of pears. From W. May, oranges. From
S. B. Morse, peaches. From Mrs. F. B. Durfee, a fine cluster of Muscat of
Alexandria grapes. From E. Winslow, 5 varieties of apples. From E.
Sanborn, Andover, figs, open culture. From J. H. Lord, a basket of as-
sorted fruit.

From T. Needham, 12 varieties of grapes, among them the Cannon Hall
Muscat, M. of Alexandria, Do la Palestine, (30 inches long,) St. Peters,
Chasselas Musque, &c. ; also, Louise Bonne of Jersey pears. From J.
Hyde & Son, 2 varieties of pears, 8 of apples, and Early Crawford peaches.
From Samuel Sweetser, 8 varieties of pears, and 4 of plums. From J. H.
Fearing, Duane's Purple plums. From E. T. Andrews, Seedling peaches.
From Mis. Dudley, 3 dishes of pears. From C. E. Gr&nt, 6 varieties of
pears, and 5 of peaches. From L. Baldwin, nectarines, Snow peaches, (?)
and Louise Bonne of Jersey pears. From A. Pope, 2 baskets of apples,
unnamed.

PREMIUMS ARD GRATUITIES AWARDED FOR FRUIT.

Apples. — For the best 12 varieties, of 12 specunens each, to B. V.
French, the Society's plate, valued at f20.

For the second best, to A. D. Williams & Son, $12.

For the third best, to Jas. Eustis, $8.

For fine collections, of 12 varieties, a gratuity of the Society's silver
medal, to J. B. Moore, Jos. Stickney, G. R. Russell, and A. D.
Weld.

For the best dish of apples, a premium of $6, to E. Tufts, for tlie Tufts.

For the second best, to E. Tufts, $4, for the R. I. Greening.

For a fine dish of apples, a gratuity of the Society's silver medal, to each
of the following gentlemen : — A. Pope, for variety unknown ; H. B.
Stanwood, Cathead ; W. B. Kingsbury, Dutch Codlin ; John Wash-
burn, Hubbardston Nonsuch; A. Dexter, Deacon; Messrs. Win-
ship, Cathead ; Capt. Lovett, Minister ; Ilovey & Co., Baldwin.
Pears. — For the best 12 varieties, of 12 specimens each, tlie Lyman
plate, to M. P. Wilder, valued at .$20.

For the second best, to Hovey & Co., $12.

For the third best, to John Gordon, $8.

For fine collections, of 12 varieties, a gratuity of $8 each, to J. S. Cabot,
O. Johnson, and Jos. Lovett.

478 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

For a collection of pears, a gratuity of the Society's silver medal, to J.

Washburn and S. Downer, Jr.
For the best dish of pears, a premium of $6, to Wm. Davis, for the

Doyenne, Boussock.
For the second best, f 4, to J. Mann, for the Beurr6 Bosc.
For a fine dish of pears, a gratuity of the Society's silver medal, to each
of the following gentlemen : — W. Bacon, for Beurr6 Diel ; Andrew
Lackay, for Belle Lucrative ; D. H. Richards, for Golden Beurre of
Bilboa ; Wm. Crafts, for Andrews ; Jos. Stickney, for Catillac ;
Hovey & Co., for Beurre d'Anjou ; Geo. Wilson, for Paradise d'Au-
tomne ; and E. Bemis, for Louise Bonne of Jersey.
For a splendid basket of Bartlett pears, a gratuity of $6, to Jas. Mac-

Intyre.
For single dishes of pears, the Society's bronze medal, to A. Parker, A.
A. Andrews, L Fay, and S. Driver.
Grapes. — For the best specimens, a gratuity of $10, to Hovey & Co.
For the second best, a gratuity of $7, to G. R. Russell.
For fine specmiens, the Society's silver medal, to N. Stetson, Dr. N.

Durfee, B. D. Emerson, W. C. Strong, and T. Needham.
For a fine bunch of Muscat of Alexandria, tlie bronze medal, to W.
Young, Fall River.
Peaches. — For the best specimen, a premium of $8, to G. Merriam, for
the Early Crawford.
For fine specimens, the Society's bronze medal, to N. Stetson, John
Dana, and T. Owens.
Plums. — For a large collection, a gratuity of tlie Society's silver medal,
to B. F. Nourse.
For fine specimens, a gratuity of the bronze medal, to A. Lackay, Jos.
Lovett, Hovey & Co., and H. Vandine.
Watermelons. — For fine specimens, the bronze medal, to J. B. Moore.
Grape Vine. — For a fine plant of the Black Hamburgh grape, growing

in a pot, the Society's silver medal, to M. H. Simpson.
Vegetables. — The room which our report of the exhibition occupies,
prevents us from giving a detailed account of the vegetable department, and
we therefoi'e copy the entire official report of the committee : —

We regret to say, that the exhibition of vegetables was rather meagre,
notwithstanding the important place which their cultivation holds in horti-
culture. The specimens which were exhibited, however, were almost uni-
versally excellent of their kind. The show of potatoes, which in former
years has been very fine, was miserable, on account of the disease. The
Society having made great preparation to show this part of the exhibition,
do hope to see in another season a much greater display of vegetables.

PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED FOR VEGETABLES.

Premiums. — To A. D. Williams, for best display and greatest variety,

\

Horticultural Operations for October. 479

To A. Parker, for second best display and greatest variety, $G.
Gratuities. — To A. Hatch, for Seedling potatoes, $3.
To Lyman Kinsley, for a good show of vegetables, $3.
To John Gordon, for a fine show of vegetables, $2.
To A. R. Pope, for Sweet corn, a new and prolific hybrid, $2.
To Jolm Schouler, for a show of squashes, $1.
To Stone & Co., for a good display of vegetables, $1.
To A. Bowditch, for a show of vegetables, $2.
To J. B. Moore, for a great display of vegetables, $6.
To Mrs. L. Spaulding, for a show of corn, $\.
To A. A. Andrews, for a show of vegetables, $\.
To Hovey &l Co., for a fine show of tomatoes, $\.

HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS

FOR OCTOBER.
FRUIT DEPARTMENT,

Grape Vines in the greenhouse should now be divested of all their lat-
erals, and where the spurs are very long, they may be partially cut in, at
the same time taking oflT all the leaves which have a yellow tinge, in order
to admit the full rays of the sun, both to ripen the wood and invigorate the
plants, which will now have been brought in. The fruit should all be cut
now, as the damp from the plants will soon injure it, if it is left on the vines.
Air the house early in tlie morning, and close up early in the afternoon.
Vines in pots should now be more sparingly watered, in order to check the
growth, and harden and ripen the wood.

Figs in pots should now be rather sparingly watered.

Peach Trees in pots may also have less water, now that the young is
ripening off.

Raspberry plantations may be made this month.

Gooseberry and Currant bushes may be planted this month.

Strawberry Beds may yet be made, if tlie work is done early in the
month. Plantations made in August or September, should be hoed and kept
clear of weeds.

Fruit Trees of all kinds may be removed the last of tlie month, or as
soon as the leaves begin to fall.

Trees Budded in August and September should be looked to occasion-
ally, and if tlie ties are binding them too tight they should be cut or loos-
ened.

FLOWER department.

Camellias should now be removed to the greenhouse or conservatory ;
see that the pots are all washed clean, the soil top dressed, and -tlie foliage
washed, or thoroughly syringed.

480 Horticultural Operations for October.

Chrysanthemums layered in August should be taken off before severe
frosts, and repotted in the next size pots ; after standing a few days in a
shady frame, they may be removed to tlie house or parlor for blooming-.
Water occasionally with liquid guano.

Pelargoniums should now be kept in the coolest part of tlie house, and
be very sparingly Avatered.

Roses, of tender kinds, growing in the open ground, should be taken up
and potted this month. Hardy roses may be successfully transplanted the
last of the month.

Heaths planted out in the open ground should be taken up before severe
frosts.

Dahlias v/ill now be in full bloom, unless early frosts have injured them ;
they will soon, however, be more hardly dealt with, and those which are in
low and exposed places had better be taken up immediately ; those on higher
ground may remain some time.

Gladioluses, Tiger Flowers, and similar bulbs should now be
taken up.

Verbenas may yet be propagated, if the stock is not large enough.

Lilies of all kinds may be reset this month.

Pansies should now be propagated, if not already done.

Antirrhinums should be propagated this month.

Tulips and Hyacinths may be planted this month.

Ranunculus beds should soon be prepared for planting in February next.

Azaleas. Continue to water sparingly, and remove to the greenhouse
or frame to avoid heavy rains.

Fuchsias done blooming may be placed away under the stage, or in the

back shed.

OxALisEs, Sparaxis and Ixias may now be planted.

Schizanthuses will need an occasional shift, if fine specimens are
Avanted.

Perennial Plants of all kmds may now be transplanted ; it is the most
favorable season, and there is an abundance of time now to do it properly.

Carnations should now be taken up and potted, or removed to frames,
where they will winter safely, with a little covering of leaves or straw.

Herbaceous Pceonies may now be safely transplanted.

Epiphyllum Truncatum and its varieties should now be more liberally
watered, as they are coming into bloom.

Daphnes may now be repotted.

Double Helianthemums should be taken up tliis montli.

Begonias now coming into bloom may be repotted.

Kalmias, Azaleas, or any other plants wanted for forcing should now be
taken up and repotted.

Scarlet Geraniums may now be propagated for a spring stock.

Stephanotus now done blooming may be more sparingly watered.

Greenhouse Plants of all sorts, should now be top dressed, staked, and
put in order for the winter.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTURE,

NOVEMBER, 1850.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. Polmaise Method of Heating Greenhouses and
Hothouses, compared with Hotwater, scientifically and
practically considered. By R. B. Leuchars.

{Continued, from p. 441.)

Havimg considered the merits of hot air and hot water, in
comparison with each other, I shall now point out some of
the causes of faihire in hotwater apparatuses, which have led
to the premature condemnation of this method, with the
view of showing that these failures are not attributable to
the system, nor the principles upon which it works, but to
a misconstruction of the one, and a misapplication of the
other.

I may here remark, that many apparatuses that have come
under my observation have failed through the most trifling
causes, so trifling, indeed, that the necessary alterations
would cost only a few dollars to convert the useless and
unprofitable into a perfect and efiicient apparatus; and I
liave seen some instances of these unworkable apparatuses
removed and destroyed, and the whole cost sacrificed, when
the opinion of a person who understood the subject would
have saved the apparatus from destruction, and made it
answer the intended purpose.

Perhaps the most frequent defect in a hotwater apparatus, is
" imperfect circulation." It is this circulation which prevents
the water in the boiler from being heated above the boiling

VOL. XVI. NO. XI. 61

482 Pohnaise Method of Heating Greenhouses, 5fc.

point, and generating steam. It is this circulation which
causes all the water in the apparatus to pass successively
through the boiler, — conveying the heat to the parts most
distant from it, by which it is again cooled, and again returns
to the boiler to absorb heat and carry it away. Without this
circulation those parts of the apparatus which are remote
from the source of heat, would receive little or no heat at all.
From this, then, it will be evident that circulation forms one
of the most important of our present considerations.

Our first object, then, is to consider the nature of this
circulation, and the power that produces it, so that we may
have a clearer perception of the causes of its obstruction.

The cause of circulation in hotwater pipes is in conse-
quence of the unequal pressure of water on the lower pipe,
not of any alteration in the level of the water in the pipes,
as some erroneously suppose. Some persons imagine that if
the pipes be inclined so as to allow a gradual fall of the water
in its return to the boiler, circulation is obtained, or increased.
This, at first, appears very plausible, particularly with regard
to the forms of apparatus generally used in heating hothouses ;
but the principle is entirely erroneous, and appears to arise
from regarding the subject as a simple question of hydraulics,
instead of a compound result of hydrodynamics. If the
question were only as regards a fluid of uniform temperature,
then the greatest effect would be obtained by inclining the
pipe towards the boiler ; but the fluid contained in the pipes,
when motion is necessary, is of varying density and temper-
ature, which materially alters the conditional results.

In order to explain this more clearly, let us illustrate one of
the most simple forms of apparatus, {Jig. 29,) such as are used

T

A

Fig. 29. Hotwater Apparatus, showing the principle of Circulation.

in some of the most extensive forcing establishments in Eng-
land, the principle of which is represented in the above cut.

Polmaise Method of Heating Greenhouses, <^c. 483

Now let us suppose heat to be applied to the boiler, A ; a
dilatation of the volume of the water takes place, and it
becomes lighter ; the heated particles rising upwards through
the colder ones, which sink to the bottom by their greater
specific gravity, and they in their turn become heated, and
expand like the others. This intestine motion continues
until all the particles in the volume become equally heated,
and have received as much heat as the fuel can impart to
them. But as soon as the water in the boiler. A, begins to
acquire heat, and to become lighter than that which is at
the opposite end, B, the water which is in the lower hori-
zontal pipe, (/, is pressed by a greater weight at c than at /,
and it therefore moves towards A, with a velocity and force
equal to the difference in pressure (or weight of the two
columns,) at c than at /. The water in the vertical pipe, B,
would now fall to a lower level were it not that the pipe e
furnishes a fresh supply from the boiler, to replenish the
deficiency. By means of this unequal pressure on the lower,
or what is called the return, pipe, the water is forced to cir-
culate through the apparatus, and it continues to do so as
long as the water at B is colder than that in the boiler.
And as the water in the pipes is constantly parting with its
heat, both by radiation and conduction, while that in the
boiler is continually receiving additional heat from the fire,
an equality of temperature in the water contained in the
whole apparatus can never occur, while the apparatus is at
work, for if it did, circulation would cease.

Contrary, therefore, to what is supposed by many, we find
that circulation commences in the loicer, or return pipe first.
The first motion among the particles being at/, in the fore-
going cut, and that this motion is caused by the superior
weight of the column of water in the vertical pipe, B. To
a person unacquainted with this astonishing principle in
hydrostatics, the theory of circulation here given may proba-
bly appear erroneous, because the quantity of water con-
tained in the boiler. A, is so much greater than that in the
vertical pipe, B. It is, however, one of the first laws of
hydrostatics, that the pressure of fluids depends for its

484 Pohnaise Method of Heating Greenhouses, S^c.

amount, on the height of the coUimn only, wholly irrespective
of the bulk, or actual quantity of the fluid contained in the
column. Therefore a pipe, which is not larger than a quill,
will transmit the same amount of pressure as if it were a foot
or a yard in diameter, provided the height in both cases be
alike. On this law, therefore, depends the circulation of the
water in the forms of hot water apparatus generally used in
horticultural structures.

From the foregoing cut it will be seen that the height of
the column, B, is just equal to the distance between the
apertures of the two pipes, / and g. The effective pressure
is the same, whether the return pipe be carried on the level
from c to/, or according to the dotted lines, as is frequently
done. But suppose that the return pipe be carried on an
inclination from B to /, as is frequently done, under the
impression of gaining additional power in the circulation.
Without having recourse to abstruse calculations, I think it
will be evident enough that this inclination of the pipe tends
to reduce the amount of pressure instead of increasing it ;
for, though the height of the column be in both cases the
same, the effective pressure of the column is reduced by its
horizontal position, in consequence of the friction on the
sides of the pipe, which is not compensated in any manner.
Moreover, as there is actually more matter in a pipe filled
with cold water, than in one filled with hot water, the
gravitating force will be inversely proportional to the tem-
perature ; that is, it will be less in proportion as the tempera-
ture of the water is greater. There must, therefore, under
all circumstances, be a positive loss of effective pressure by
inclining the pipe in the manner stated.

If we are right in the conclusion that the power which
produces the circulation in the pipes is the unequal pressure
on the extremities of the return pipe, then the result will be
precisely similar, whether this force acts on a pipe ten feet,
or on one a hundred feet in length, and it is so.

This has always occurred to me one of the most simple
and efficient forms of apparatus for heating hot-houses, — and
many fine structures are so heated. As an instance, I might

Culture of Taxodium sempervirens. 485

give the large mnge of metallic forcing houses at Woburn
Gardens, in England, which are heated on this simple plan ;
each house, or division of the range, being supplied with a
separate apparatus and boiler. The boilers in this case are
merely square boxes, open at top, but each having a wooderi
cover which fits tightly on the edges. The circulation is so
perfect that no steam is generated, — the water, therefore,
never reaches the boiling point. These apparatus had been
at Avork for many years previous to our living there, without
getting out of order, or in need of repairs, and at that time
were working as well as when they were erect&d.

Though apparatus of this form are suitable under the
general arrangements of horticultural structures, there are,
nevertheless, some circumstances which require their modi-
fication, and some others under which they are quite inappli-
cable, to which, in connection with the misapplication of the
principle, we will subsequently advert.

Boston, Oct. 15, 1850.

( To be contmued. )

Art. II. Observations on the Culture of Taxodium sempei^-
virens. By M. Desportes, of M. Andre Leroy's Nursery,
Angers, France.

Will you permit me to add some observations on the
manner of growing this species, to those you have already
published, respecting the Taxodium sempervirens, in the
August number of your estimable Magazine.

Indeed, I do not know any tree in the family of the Conif-
era3, the growth of which is such as that of this Taxodium. In
1845, M. Andre Leroy, of Angers, received two plants of this
splendid evergreen tree ; he planted them in the open air in
his large and beautiful nurseries, without giving them any
more care than other hardy evergreens. One was in a
heath soil, (terre de bruyere,) and the other in a loamy soil.
The first is now twenty-four feet high ; the divergent

486 Culture of Taxodium sempervirens.

branches, which fall into wreaths, ahnost like the Norway-
spruce, or Cedar of Lebanon, spread about eight feet from
the stem, producing by its numerous ramifications, and the
dark green leaves with which it is loaded, one of the most
picturesque objects imaginable. The stem at the base meas-
ures one foot and six inches in circumference.

The second, which was planted in common soil, is not
exactly so high ; its branches are nearer the main stem, and
the form or habit of the tree is more pyramidal, but the
effect of which is not less beautiful.

If we consider attentively this tree, we easily recognize
that nature has given it every good quality to render it the
most valuable of all hardy trees. The great facility with
which it is propagated has enabled nurserymen to multiply
it in such large quantities, that, although it is of very re-
cent introduction, they are now supplied with an abundant
stock.

The first ones which have been planted on lawns and
pleasure grounds, are so beautiful that they justify the haste
which nurserymen have taken in propagating this tree.

For some time, seeing the rapidity of its growth, we feared
that it was not sufficiently hardy to resist our winters ; but
five years ago it grew in the open air, like all other hardy
evergreen trees ; besides, last spring we had 30° of frost, of
Fahrenheit ; at this time it had already began to grow, and
the sap in full circulation, which was a most favorable con-
dition to receive injury from frost ; nevertheless, none but a
few of the young shoots of the late autumn growth were
stricken, and a few buds already open, and only the young
plants in the nurseries, — large ones were saved. The young
shoots and buds which suffered were cut off, the adventi-
tious buds opened with great vigor, and now those, the ex-
tremities of which had suffered, are the most beautiful. We
can thus say that this splendid tree is perfectly hardy, and
grows with great rapidity.

Angers, Sept. 15, 1850.

Hints on Summer Management of Fruit Trees. 487

Art. III. Hints respecting the Summer Treatment of Fruit
Trees. By an Old Fruit Cultivator.

Dear Sir, — Notwithstanding the numerous articles that
have been written monthly, by yourself and your numerous
contributors, on the cultivation and management of fruit
trees, yet, on looking around me, I cannot help remarking
the great discrepancy in point of summer management on
the part of many practical fruit growers, throughout the
country, and that too by many who, one would think, are
fully acquainted with anything which I can say on the sub-
ject. Nevertheless, if you can spare me room in your valu-
able columns for a few remarks. I will, as briefly as possible,
point out what I mean.

It is, I believe, generally admitted by all experienced cul-
tivators, and more especially practical gardeners, (a class who
are somewhat slow to admit anything that retaliates upon
themselves,) that there is still something required ii^ the
shape of knowledge, before we can be fully master of a fruit
tree. It gets barren or blighted, — it cracks its fruit, — it grows
sickly, — becomes wretched to look at, and latterly dies ; yet
there is no remedy at hand, no specific antidote to any or all
of these evils ; Ave may doctor the tree ^vith ashes, iron
filings, and highly concentrated special manures, but all
these have oftener failed than been effectual. Why cannot
we get at the disease and the remedy, as a physician gets at
his patient's illness, and with the same degree of hope ?
Why cannot some of your scientific and physiological cor-
respondents take hold of this subject in a thoroughly prac-
tical manner, that we may not go plodding on continually
on mere chance, throAving aAvay our money on horticultural
drugs, and killing our trees into the bargain.

Now, Mr. Editor, I Avould like, if you or some of your
clever correspondents Avould tell me, to knoAv Avhether the
ill-success Avhich attends our eflbrts to produce permanency
and productiveness in fruit trees, arises from the mismanage-
ment of the root or the top ? I have my own opinion on

488 Hints on Summer Management of Fruit Trees.

this matter, but I will not say much about it till I hear yours,
or some other cultivator's, \vho may think proper to give his.
Perhaps your readers may think enough has already been writ-
ten on this subject, to instruct all who are desirous to distin-
guish between right and wrong ; but I think a wide field
still lies open for the exercise and display of talent and in-
dustry ; and as these discoveries may be considered as re-
lating to the highest branch of gardening, they would, un-
doubtedly, reflect credit on those whose investigations tend
to elucidate facts hitherto unknown, and accelerate the prac-
tice of some method which would be generally applicable to
the peculiar condition of our trees ; so that we might know
with certainty what to do with them, and what to admin-
ister Avhen they are assailed by the numerous ills to which
fruit trees are subject.

If you v/ish it, I will give you a few more ideas of mine
on this subject, as I have been somewhat largely engaged in
the culture of fruit trees, and with tolerably fair success.

Sept. 20, 1850.

[We shall certainly welcome the views of our correspond-
ent to our pages, and fully agree with him that there is room
for great improvement in the culture of fruit trees. One
would suppose, after reading much that is published under
the name of horticultural science, that nothing more need be
known to reach the perfection of cultivation ; an amateur
has only to look into the pages of a gardening periodical and
find a recipe which will at once transform all his diseased
trees into healthy ones, and his blighted fruits into the most
fair and beautiful. The apothecary's shop is to be the grand
source for curing the ills of the vegetable as well as animal
world. All is not science that is written under that name ;
and especially in Horticulture does this hold true. Indeed
the greatest bar to its progress is the charlatanry of many of
its practitioners. — -Ed.]

New Varieties of Pears.

489

Art. IV. Descriptions and Engravings of three new varieties
of Pears. By M. Desportes, of M. Leroy's Nursery,
Angers, France.

[Angers is the town of nurseries in France. Almost
everybody here is interested in this trade. M. Andre Le-
roy is the leading nurseryman, and his superintendent,

Fig. 30. Beurri Superfine.

M. Desportes, who visited this country last year, has sent us-
the descriptions and engravings of three new pears, two only

VOL. XVI. — NO. XI. 62

490

Descriptions and Engravings

of which have yet fruited in American collections. These
are the Beurre Superfine and the Beurre Robin. — Ed.]

1. Beurre' Superfine.

Size, rather large, three and three quarters inches long, and
three and a quarter in diameter : Form, irregular, turbinate :
Stem, stout, and wrinkled at the base, fleshy, large, one inch
long : Eye, small, set nearly even with the surface : Skin,
yellowish green, with broad, grayish, scattered patches, and
numerous small brown specks : Flesh, whitish, with some
yellow or brown lines or specks : Juice, abundant, agreeably
perfumed. Ripe in September.

Fig. 31. Doyenni Goubault.

It is a fine pear, of first rate quality, and one that every
cultivator will add to his collection when it is better known.

Tree, a good grower, with upright shoots, the young wood
yellow or grayish : buds, large, brown : the leaves green.

of New Varieties of Pears. 491

glabrous, rather long, reflexed, obtusely dentate. It is a
good bearer.

This pear {fig. 30) was obtained from seed by M. Goubault
in 1847.

2. Doyenne' Goubault.

Obtained from seed by M. Goubault, in 1849, {fig. 31.)

Size, medium, three inches long and two and three quarters
inches in diameter : Form, roundish, depressed : Stem, short,
stout, sometimes slender, inserted in a shallow cavity of
middling breadth : Skin, yellowish, speckled with brown
nearly everywhere : Flesh, white, rather crisp or coarse, very
juicy: F/avor, perfumed, vinous : Core, large, coarse, stony :
Seeds, small : Eye, middling deep : segments of the calyx
short and liable to fall sometimes.

Tree, rather pyramidal : wood yellow with gray specks :
buds, long, brown, blackish : leaves, yellow greenish, long,
glabrous, obtusely dentate. A good bearer, but does not
grow well. It ripens from September to February.

It is a first rate variety.

Sent by M. Andre Leroy, of Angers, France.

3, Doyenne' Robin.

Obtained from seed by M. Robin, in 1840, at Angers,
France. {Fig. 32.)

Though this excellent kind was obtained ten years ago, it
is scarcely known.

Size, very large, nearly four inches long and three and a
half inches in diameter : Form, obovate, cut off at the extrem-
ities, regular : Stem, short, stout, wider at the extremities,
rather curved, three quarters of an inch long: Cahjx, open,
medium shallow : Skin, yellow, covered with numerous
uniform specks : Flesh, white, juicy, buttery, slightly per-
fumed.

Tree. Branches divergent, young wood grayish, clear,
speckled with brown, downy at the extremities : buds large,
dark brown: leaves, narrow, light or yellow green above,

492 New Varieties of Pears.

and pale or glabrous beneath, reflex, obtusely dentated,
always red petioled. It grows very fast and forms a beau-
tiful tree.

Fig. 32. DoTjenni Robin.

This variety is one of the finest ones we have obtained
for several years, and well deserves a place in the best collec-
tion of pears.

Angers, Sept. 15, 1850.

Select Varieties of Apples. 493

Art. V. Descriptions a7id Engravings of Select Varieties
of Apples. By the Editor.

Owing to a typographical error in our last volume, (XV,
p. 536,) the enumeration of the number of varieties which
we have described and figured, should have read thirty-four
instead of twenty-four. We now correct the mistake, which
was overlooked in our last article in the present volume^
p. 64.

XL. Gravenstein. Pom. Magazine, Vol. Ill, p. 98.

The Gravenstein {fig. 33,) is one of the finest apples
which has been introduced into American Collections. In
England it is esteemed " an apple of great merit, and one
which should be found in all good gardens." It has been
figured in the Transactions of the London Horticultural So-
ciety, and in the Pomological Magazine, as above quoted,
from which we gather the following account of its history :

The name is supposed to be derived from its having been
originally found in the garden of a castle called Grafenstein,
in Holstein, to which it is said to have been introduced from
Italy.

The German authors, Hirschfeld, Christ, and Mayer, de-
scribe a variety as the Gravensteiner, but the authors of the
Magazine consider it extremely doubtful whether it is the
same as the Gravenstein of the English, and therefore do not
quote the synonyms. Mayer expressly states that it is the
same as the Calville Blanche d'Hiver.

The Gravenstein, in our climate, is an early fall apple,
ripening with the Porter, and is generally gone by the end
of October. At this season it is scarcely surpassed by any
other variety. Its crisp and tender flesh, its abundant juice,
and its peculiarly high and refreshing flavor, place it among
the very best autumn apples. Lindley states that it will keep
tfll April, which may possibly be the case in Great Britain,
but not in our climate.

The tree is a vigorous and healthy grower, an abundant

494 Descriptions and Engravings of

bearer, and the fruit is always remarkably fair and hand-
some.

Size, large, about three inches broad, and two and a
half deep : Form, roundish, broadest near the base, which
is little flattened, and narrowing to the crown, which is
large, and slightly depressed : Skin, fair, smooth, with a
greenish yellow ground, distinctly streaked and pencilled
with pale red, and lightly splashed with crimson, deepest

Fig. 33. Gravenstein.

on the sunny side : Stem, very short, less than half an inch
long, moderately stout, and deeply inserted in a medium
sized, somewhat uneven cavity : Eye, large, closed, and mod-
erately sunk in a large, open, and furrowed basin ; segments
of the calyx, large, broad at their base, and woolly : Flesh,
yellowish white, rather coarse, crisp and tender : Juice,
abundant, rich, subacid, sprightly, and high flavored : Core,
rather small, closed : Seeds, medium size, light colored.
Ripe in September and October.

Select Varieties of Apples.

495

XLI. Duchess of Oldenburgh.

1842.

Hort. Soc. Cat., 3d Ed.

Mr. Manning, we believe, first fruited the Duchess of
Oldenburgh, (Jig. 34,) and gave a brief account of it in his
Book of Fruits. Since then it has been considerably dis-
seminated, and though yet far from being common, is to be
found in many fine collections of fruit. It is said to be of
Russian origin, having somewhat the character of the Red

Fig. 34^. Duchess of Oldenburgh.

Astrachan, exceedingly beautiful, covered with a delicate
bloom, and possessing the same subacid flavor, and crisp
flesh. It is an excellent bearer, and will hold a prominent
place among our August and September apples.

Size, medium, about three inches broad, and two and a
half deep : Form, roundish oblate, somewhat flattened at
each end, and very indistinctly ribbed around the crown :
Skin, fair, smooth, clear lemon yellow, very distinctly
splashed, and striped with deep brilliant red, palest on the
shady side, and covered with a whitish bloom : Stem, me-
dium length, about three quarters of an inch long, rather

496 Select Varieties of Apples.

slender, and moderately inserted in a medium sized, rather
open cavity : Eye, rather large, closed, and but slightly sunk
in a somewhat irregular and knobby basin ; segments of the
■calyx broad, long and twisted : Flesh, yellowish white,
rather coarse, crisp and firm : Juice, abundant, subacid, and
well flavored : Core, rather large : Seeds, medium size,
plump. Ripe in August and September.

XLII. Tufts.

Tufts' Baldwin, of some.

The Tufts (Jig. 35,) is a new seedling, which originated
in Cambridge, Mass., in the garden of the late Peter Tufts.
The original tree is now thirty years old, and began to bear
when about sixteen years of age. It was first noticed among

Fig. 35. Tujls.

a small quantity of seedlings, which were planted for stocks,
and, from the promising appearance and vigor of the tree, it
was transplanted to another part of the garden to bear.
Here it continued to advance slowly, producing nothing for
many years, and only bearing a sufficient quantity to attract

Pomological Gossip. 497

attention until within six or eight ^'•ears. The tree now
forms a fine head ; and in full fruit, as it was this year, pre-
sents a splendid appearance.

It grow^ similar to the Baldwin, resembles it some\vhat in
appearance, and has the same pleasant admixture of sweet
and acid, which gives the former so high a character. The
fruit is very fair and handsome, and the tree bears every
year.

Size, large, about three and a half inches broad, and two
and three quarters inches deep : Form, roundish oblate,
swollen on one side, somewhat uneven in its outline, being
slightly ribbed, and narrowing little to the crown, which is
oblique : Skin, fair, smooth, of an oily touch, with a green-
ish ground, nearly covered with dark dull crimson, little rus-
seted around the stem, and the surface interspersed with a few
scattered yellow specks : Stem, medium length, about three
quarters of an inch long, slender, and deeply sunk in a large
rather open cavity : Eye, small, closed, and moderately sunk
in a very broad, and little furrowed basin ; segments of the
calyx short : Flesh, greenish white, fine, crisp and tender :
Juice, tolerably abundant, with a pleasant admixture of
sweet and acid, high flavored and excellent : Core, medium
size, nearly closed : Seeds, medium size, mostly abortive.
Ripe in October and November.

Art. VL Pomological Gossip.

Mr. Thompson's Notes on several Varieties of Pears,
INCLUDING five OF Mr. Knight's Seedlings. In the spring
of 1849 cuttings of the follov^nng varieties of pears were dis-
tributed among the members of the London Horticultural
Society, and an account of them supplied by Mr. Thomp-
son. As Mr. Knight's varieties are yet but little known
among our cultivators, they will be pleased to learn that they
are so highly esteemed by so good a pomologist as Mr.
Thompson :

vol. XVI. — no. XI. 63

498 Pomological Gossip.

1. Beiirre d'Amanlis, a large obovate pear, ripening in Sep-
tember, superior to the Brown Buerre in quality, and so much
hardier that it bears well as a standard, whereas the Brown
Buerre will not succeed as such.

2. Eyewood, one of Mr. Knight's valuable hardy pears,
ripe in October. Fruit of it from a standard is as large as
that of Gansell's Bergamot ; rich and excellent.

3. March Bergamot, also raised by Mr. Knight. The
fruit is about the size of the Autumn Bergamot, and like it
in shape. It will keep till March, or even later. Mr. Knight
stated that it would be found very valuable in cold and unfa-
vorable situations, in which the French and Belgian varieties
would not succeed.

The shoots of this, as well as that of the Eyewood, are
very thorny when the trees are young ; but fewer are pro-
duced as they get older, and fruit spurs are then formed in
their places.

4. Shobden Court, a middle sized obovate fruit of yellow-
ish russet color, and rich sugary flavor ; ripe in January and
February. It is amongst the latest raised of the race of
hardy pears introduced by the late Mr. Knight.

5. Knight's Monarch, also raised by Mr. Knight. The
true sort cannot be too generally cultivated. In various
parts of the country, where it has been tried, it has invaria-
bly proved excellent. Ripe in December, January and Feb-
ruary.

6. Broom Park, a remarkably sugary pear, middle-sized,
roundish, with a flavor partaking of those of the melon and
pine apple. Ripe in December and January.

7. Compte de Lamy, middle-sized, roundish, sugary, and
rich ; ripe in October. The tree has an upright mode of
growth, and bears abundantly.

These are all hardy pears, of excellent quality ; and better
from standards or dwarfs, than from walls.

To these remarks of Mr. Thompson we can add, that, so
far as we have proved these sorts, they fully merit all he has
said of them. Beurre d'Amanlis is a most excellent pear,
and indispensable in the smallest collection. It will be as

, Pomological Gossip. 499

popular as the Louise Bonne of Jersey. Knight's Monarch
will, we think, become one of the most desirable winter
pears. Compte de Lamy has not been properly appreciated ;
it is hardly up to medium size, but in flavor is surpassed by
scarcely any of its season ; no good collection should be
without it. We shall figure and describe it in our next vol-
ume. Broom Park, Shobden Court, and March Bergamot,
are yet scarcely known, and we have never yet seen a well
grown specimen of either of them. We have no doubt they
will be found very valuable sorts. The Dunmore, which
was considered by some only second rate, has been one of
the most excellent varieties we have tasted this autumn.
The specimens have been very large, and their rich vinous
Champagne character has rarely been surpassed, and scarce-
ly equalled, by any other kind.

Smith's Bordenave Pear, of which we gave a brief ac-
count in our volume for 1848, proves to be one of the finest
September pears. Specimens sent us from the original tree,
in Hartford, Conn., have established its claims to the highest
place among autumn pears ; having much the character of
the Brown Beurre, but more sugary and melting, and at the
same time peculiarly refreshing and rich. It has somewhat
the appearance of the Beurre d'Amanlis, but is not so large.

Sheldon Pear. — This is the name under which we have
received some very fine specimens from Wayne county. New
York. Last year, by the kindness of a friend, we received
a dozen or more of the pears, and upon trial we found them
to be among the best we had eaten ; so fine indeed that we
thought they must be the Gray Doyenne. Upon inquiring
into the history of the tree, however, which we shall give at
length hereafter, we found it to be another of the native
seedlings, of which so many have recently been described
and introduced to notice. It is a large sized pear, of obovate
form, with a smooth, greenish russet skin ; stem rather short
and stout ; eye very slightly depressed ; flesh yellowish, very
melting and juicy, with a highly perfumed and delicious
flavor, resembling the Gansell's Bergamot. It ripens in Octo-
ber. It will, we think, rank with the finest autumn pears.

500 Cultivation of Tro^aolums.

Art. VII. Cultivation of TropcBohims. By W. Saunders,
Gardener to J. Hopkins, Esq., Clifton Park, Baltimore,

Climbing plants are universally admired. Independent of
any beauty of flower, or elegance of foliage, there is a natural
gracefulness in their habit which is always pleasing ; and they
never seem out of character wherever they are introduced.

Moderate in growth, and profuse in flowering, the Tropae-
lums are a much admired species of this description ; com-
bining beauty and elegance in a high degree, and although
principally natives of South America, they are very hardy,
and can be brought to the greatest perfection in the low
temperature of a greenhouse ; flowering abundantly during
the early spring and the greater part of the summer months.

Of late years many valuable additions have been made to
this family of plants, both in regard to variety of color in the
flowers, and diversity of form in their leaves ; there are up-
wards of twenty species in cultivation, all of them exceed-
ingly pretty. A few of the most desirable for greenhouse
decoration, with the color of their flowers, are the following :

Tropje^olum tricolo^rum, scarlet, orange, and black.

T. Azu^REUM, light blue, a very desirable variety.

T. BRACHYCE^RAS, ycUoW.

T. PENTAPHYLLUM, red aud green.

T. LoBBiA^NUM, orange scarlet.

T. sPEcio^suM, red.

T. UMBELLA^TUM, oraugc red, tipped with green, and

T. atrosangui'neum, dark.

There are others worthy of particular notice, but the above
may be considered a good selection.

They are very easily managed ; the principal point to be
attended to is the application of water ; they are very impa-
tient o\ much moisture about their roots, consequently the
pots must be well drained and the soil carefully prepared.
Lumpy pieces of sandy loam should be employed, and if
mixed with a few pieces of charcoal or crocks, a rapid circu-
lation of water and air will be more certainly secured. An
additional reason for extra care in this respect is, that they

Cultivation of TrojpcBolums. 501

require to be planted at once into the pots in which they are
to flower ; it being necessary, from their habit of growth, that
the trellis on which they are to be trained, should be adjust-
ed at once, and it is rather hazardous to attempt shifting
them into larger pots when half grown.

' If the plants have flowered early in the season, and the
tubers thus brought early into a state of rest, they will, in
all probability, commence growing during the autumn
months. When this is the case, they should be potted at
once, as the energies of the plant are then at work, and if
checked, the growth would be materially injured. At what-
ever period they commence growing they should be planted.
An eight-inch pot will not be too large for a tuber two inches
in diameter. When placed in the pot the upper surface of
the tuber should be elevijted a little above the soil. They
should be kept in a cool, airy situation, out of doors, if the
weather permits, or on the front shelf of the greenhouse,
and water sparingly applied for a time. This is, indeed, the
only critical period in their growth. If the soil is kept con-
stantly wet after they are newly planted, they will frequently
grow and attain considerable size upon the sap in the tuber,
without forming any new roots. When this happens they
never complete their growth. On the other hand, if they
are kept rather dry than otherwise at this time, it will induce
an emission of roots from the tuber in search of nourishment.

When fairly started into growth the top may be pinched
from the strongest shoots. This will insure a profusion of
laterals, which should be trained so as to fill the lower part
of the trellis well at first ; if in good health, there will be
little fear of the top getting well clad before they commence
flowering ; and if once allowed to get into an entangled
mass, there is no possibility of arranging them without
greatly destroying their beauty.

They are particularly subject to be infested Avith aphis ;
but the destruction of that pest is simple, and the means
within the reach of every one. I believe, however, that
under proper treatment, plants will seldom be troubled with
any kind of vermin, but when they are neglected, and

502 Callivation of Tropceolums.

allowed to become filthy, their organs of respiration become
stopped ; they turn languid, unhealthy, and subject to the
attacks of insects, which are more frequently the consequence
than the cause of disease.

They should always be freely aired, which will cause a
sturdy growth and an equally profuse distribution of flower.
When the flowers begin to fade let them have less water,
and as the leaves change color place them out of doors and
keep them dry to mature the tubers ; they may then be turned
out of the pots and placed on a dry, airy shelf, there to re-
main until they again show symptoms of growth.

The propagation of these plants may be effected either by
seeds or cuttings. When seeds can be obtained, they pro-
duce the most vigorous growing plants. These should be
sown as soon as ripe, in light soil, the pots well drained and
placed near the glass in the greenhouse. As the plants ap-
pear, put in a small stake to each, to which it will climb.
This should be allowed to remain after the stem decays, and
it will serve as a mark to indicate the place of the tuber. It
is well not to disturb them until they shoot forth a second
time, as some of the seeds may not vegetate until the second
year. If they thrive well they will flower the third year of
their growth.

Cuttings of most of the species root readily if properly
attended to. For this purpose select the strongest of the
lateral shoots when about two inches long ; cut them out
with a small piece of the stem, and insert them in a well
prepared cutting pot. They will seldom recover if once
allowed to droop. Care must therefore be taken that their
juices are not exhausted by too much light or air. If placed
in a moderate bottom heat the formation of tubers will be
accelerated, otherwise they are apt to lapse into a state of
rest before this takes place. When the stems begin to decay,
they should be kept perfectly dry, but they need not be dis-
turbed untfl they have completed their second growth.

Another method of propagating those that are most diffi-
cult to raise from cuttings, such as tricolorum and brachy-
ceras, is to place the tuber, when commencing its growth,

Cultivation of the Scarlet Pelargonium. 503

near the bottom of the pot, and fill np with soil as the plant
progresses ; coiling the stem several times round the inside
of the pot before it reaches the surface, and in the course of
the season several tubers will be formed upon the portion of
the shoot thus covered with soil.

In referring to the means of support for these plants, I
have used the word trellis, as they are generally trained upon
flat, circular, shield-formed, or globular wire trellises. These
always appear formal, neither do they range well with other
plants. A few branches tastefully arranged, or the conical
top of any of the species of fir, answer the purpose admirably,
and are much more natural looking for climbing plants than
any of the formed trellises alluded to above.

Baltimore^ September 24,th, 1850.

Art. yili. O71 the Cultivation of the Scarlet Pelargmiium
in Pots. By Philip Conway. From the Journal of the
London Horticultural Society.

The Scarlet Pelargonium, or Geranium, as it is more gen-
erally called, though so common in all collections, from the
window of the poor man to the conservatory of the wealthy,
and withal so brilliant and showy an ornament, is rarely
seen in the perfection to which, by judicious culture, it may
be brought. The impression has prevailed that scarlet pelar-
goniums Avere so much inferior in attraction to their more
delicate sisters that they have only been thought worthy a
corner in the conservatory, as a kind of wintering place, from
whence they are removed to display their charms, in beds or
masses, or in the borders, in summer. Their splendor in
such situations is acknowledged by all, and that they are
equally susceptible of being made the gayest ornaments of
the conservatory, from spring till autumn, may be at once
inferred after reading Mr. Conway's excellent article.

We have been much surprised at the brilliant effect of a
few large and exceedingly well-grown plants which have

504 Cultivation of the Scarlet Pelargonium.

ornamented our own conservatory the past summer; and
that all may enjoy them who have the desire, we copy, Avith
pleasure, Mr. Conway's remarks, which, if duly followed, will
be attended with the best results : —

Having devoted a considerable portion of my time for
these last twelve years to the cultivation and improvement
of Scarlet Pelargoniums, and with the best results, and hav-
ing also been a successful exhibitor in this class at Chiswick
as early as the year 1839, I am induced to give the society a
plain statement of my practice, which, if followed out, will
be productive of a splendid and continuous display of bloom
in the conservatory from May till November — surely a great
desideratum.

About the middle of July select healthy plants, having
from two to six shoots of young wood as close to the pot as
can be obtained, and set them in a sunny situation. Give
them little water for a fortnight ; at the expiration of that
period cut them down, leaving about two eyes of the old
wood ; set them in the shade, and water sparingly until they
have broken well, which they will have done in about three
weeks. Cease watering them then for two or three days,
and when thoroughly dry shake them out of their pots, trim
in any straggling roots, and re-pot into as small pots as the
roots will admit of, shaking the mould well in among the
fibres. When potted set them in the shade, and give them a
good watering to make the soil firm ; afterwards water spar-
ingly until they shall have begun to grow freely, when they
will require a more liberal supply, especially in dry hot
weather, when they may be watered twice a day all over
their leaves from a fine rosed pot. ' In about a week or ten
days' time they should be removed to a situation where they
will be exposed to the full influence of the sun during the
greater part of the day. When they have well filled their
pots with roots, they should be shifted into others two sizes
larger than those they occupied, and in these they should be
flowered. About this stage of their growth care must be
especially taken to rub off" all young shoots, except one or
two on each main branch, and these should be as equal in

Cultivation of the Scarlet Pelargonium. 505

size and strength as possible all over the plant, in order that
they may all flower at the same period, Avhich they will do
or nearly so, provided too many be not left on the plants ;
and, as large trusses of flowers are more attractive than small
ones, though there may be double the number of the latter,
it is necessary to encourage the strongest and healthiest
shoots only. I should say that for a plant in a 6-inch pot
two shoots would be sufficient to leave ; for one in an S-inch
pot, three or four ; and for one in a 11-inch pot, from four to
six. The grand point being, as before stated, to get all the
shoots left on the plants to bloom at the same time : the
trusses will keep in perfection for a month or six weeks. A
strong one-year old plant, with a single stem, flowered hy-
drangia- fash ion, presents a superb appearance.

In staging the plants for the winter they should be placed
as near the glass as possible, and no more water should be
given them than will merely keep them from flagging.

About the beginning of February they should be intro-
duced to the forcing-house, and placed where they can re-
ceive the greatest amount of sun. They will now require
an increased supply of water j and when they shall have
commenced growing vigorously, and while throwing up their
flower trusses, they like a copious supply, in bright dry
weather sometimes twice a-day, gently syringing the foliage
and flower-trusses with a fine-rosed syringe, morning and
evening. Liquid manure made from sheep's droppings, ap-
plied two or three times a-week, will add much to the
strength of the truss of bloom and to the beauty of the
foliage, but this should not be applied till the flower-trusses
have made their appearance. As soon as these can be plain-
ly distinguished from the points of the shoots, the latter
must be carefully nipped off" immediately before them, the
flower-stalk will then take the lead and grow most vigorous-
ly. A stake will be required for each shoot, but it should
not show above the foliage ; the flower-stalk will be suffi-
ciently strong to support the truss. Soon after the shoots
are stopped they will send out laterals ; these should be
picked out with the point of a knife on their first appear-

VOL. XVI. NO. XI. 64

506 Cultivation of the Scarlet Pelargonium.

ance, in order that the whole energy of the plant may be
directed to the main shoots and flower-trusses. By the mid-
dle or end of May, plants treated as above will be in excellent
order for the conservatory, and when placed there it is abso-
lutely necessary to avoid all extremes in regard to watering,
or the consequence will be that the foliage will assume a
sickly hue and prematurely drop off, and the flowers will not
be so persistent or long-lived as if the soil were kept in the
happy medium between wet and dry. These are facts borne
out by experience, and I am anxious to impress them on
the minds of my readers.

When the beauty of the plants begins to fade they should
be turned out to harden off previous to their being cut back
in July, being intended for the first blooming in the follow-
ing May, and the conservatory should be replenished by a
batch cut down early in September. When the latter have
broken, are shook out and re-potted, they should be kept as
dormant as possible all winter. In April they must be shift-
ed into large pots, and at once introduced into the forcing-
house, where they should receive the same treatment as the

former lot.

The plants for the third succession must be selected
from those cut down in September ; they should be intro-
duced into the forcing-house in April along with the others ;
they should not be shifted then, but stopped back, and when
they have broken they should be shifted, and afterwards
treated in all respects as the former lots.

The soil which I use for my plants consists of equal por-
tions of rich friable loam, leaf-mould, and well-decomposed
cow-dung; mixed with coarse silver sand and lime rubbish to
the amount of about one-eighth of the whole : these should
be well incorporated with a spade, but not sifted. For large
plants especially ample drainage is essential— say a few oys-
ter-shells, and over these an inch in thickness of the rough
siftings of old lime rubbish, then a layer of flaky hot-bed
manm-e. I would here remark that during their earlier stages
of growth, the soil should not be of so forcing or heavy a
character as for more advanced plants ; I mean it should con-
tain more sand and less dung.

Floricultural and Botanical Notices, t^'c. 507

The stronger growing sorts of Pelargonium most suitable
for the above rotation are, the Shrubland Superb, Ibrahim
Pacha, Royalist, Tam O'Shanter, and Eclipse.

The best dwarfs are, Phenomenon, Brompton Hero, and
Tom Thumb ; the latter variety requires a much larger pro-
portion of cow-dung and leaf-mould, to grow it well, than
any of the other sorts, and it is the only one with which I
am acquainted that will bear forcing. They should be
stopped once or twice diu'ing their earlier stages of growth,
which will cause them to assume a more dwarf and bushy
habit, but they must not be stopped before their flowers, like
the large growing sorts.

Art. IX. Floricultural and Botanical Notices of New and
Beautiful Plants figured in Foreign Periodicals ; with
Descriptions of those recently introduced to, or originated
in, American Gardens.

Plumbago Larpentje which we have several times no-
ticed, has been in bloom, in our collection, all summer, and
proves to be a very desirable addition to our limited stock of
bedding plants, though falling considerably short of the rep-
utation Avhich it had obtained abroad. Its dark blue flowers
form a fine contrast with the scarlet verbenas, and its
dwarf habit and abundant blooming renders it gay through-
out the summer.

Achi'menes GLoxiNiEFLo'RA. — This very beautiful new
species, with large white flowers, delicately dotted with
brown, has recently flowered in the collection of Mr. Wilder,
and proves to be a very great addition to this fine family of
summer flowering plants. For the purpose of hybridization,
it will be a great acquisition.

New Species of the Globe Amaranthus. — Among the
small lot of seeds, which we had from New Mexico, is a new
species of Gomphrena, very similar to the common Globe
amaranthus, with orange colored flowers, very showy, and

508 Floricultiiral and Botanical Notices, ^'c.

making a fine contrast with the old red and white kinds so
generally cultivated. It has the same habit, and appears to
differ only in its leaves, which are much narrower. It will
be a decided addition to this class of ornamental flowers.

133. SCUTELLA^RIA MACRA^NTHA Bcntk. LaRGE FLOWERED

Scutellaria. [Lamiacea.) Siberia.

A havdy perennial ; growing two feet high ; with blue flowers •, appearing in autumn ; cultivated
in any good soil; increased by division of the roots. Flore des Serres, 1849, pi. 428.

A beautiful species of the Scutellaria, introduced from
Siberia, and will, undoubtedly, prove quite hardy. The
flowers are borne in a dense spike or head, and are of a
rich deep-blue tint ; leaves linear, very glabrous beneath.
[Flore des Serres, January.)

134. Fu'cHsiA N^iGRicANs Linden Dark flowered Fuchsia.

{(FiQiothcrecc.) Venezuela,

A greenhouse plant ; growing two feet high ; with very dark (lowers ; appearing all summer ;
cultivated in light, rich soil ; increased by cuttings. Flore des Serres, 1849, pi. 4S1.

A novel species of the fuchsia, and an interesting one to
cultivators of this showy family. The leaves are disposed
in verticillate whorls of threes, and the flowers, which are
pendent, appear in clusters on the ends of the young
branches. This species was found in Merida, in the province
of Venezuela, at an altitude of 6,000 feet, where it inhabits
humid and shady ravines, and will, probably, prove one of
the hardiest species. [Flore des Serres, May.)

135. Came'llia japo'nica var. Arch Duchesse Augusta.
Arch Duchesse Augusta's Camellia. [^ ernstroiniacecB.)

A new and splendid variety of the camellia, raised from
seeds, by M. Corsi, and is, in reality, " une plante superbes
entre les superbes." The flowers are large, finely imbri-
cated, of a deep-crimson, striped in the centre of each petal
with white and purple, and with a bluish tinge on the
edge ; the whole forming a new variety of rare merit.

Another variety has been introduced in the trade, under
this name, which is only of mediocre merit, and cultivators

Floricultural and Botanical Notices, ^'c. 509

in purchasing should be careful to secure the one raised by
M. Corsi. {Floi'e des iSerres, July.)

136. Dia'nthus crue'ntus Hort. Fringed Flowered Pink.

{CaryophyllecB.) Siberia.

A hardy perenninl (?); growing a foot Iiiiili -, with crimson flowers ; appcnring in snmmer ; grown
in liglit, rich soil ; increased by layers and seeds. Flores des Serres, 1S49, pi. 4h'S.

" A charming species," introduced into M. Van Houtte's
garden, from the Botanic Garden of St. Petersburg, and is
believed to be a native of Siberia ; it has somewhat of the
appearance of the Sweet William, (D. barbatus,) but is more
slender, with foliage like the Clove Pink, and heads of deep
crimson flowers. It is hardy, but whether biennial or per-
ennial, is not positively known. {Flore des Scrrcs, July.)

137. Mousso^NiA e''legans D7ie. Elegant Moussonia.

(Gesner ace 33.) S. America.

A greenhouse plant : growing two feet hi>jh ; wil h .scarlet flowers ; appearing in antumn ; growri
in heuth soil, loam and sand ; increased by cuttings. Flore des Serres, 1650, pi. 489.

A very beautiful gesneraceous plant, similar in habit to
G. oblongata, which has been made the type of this new
genus, by M. Requel, and now called Moussonia. It has the
same soft velvety foliage, and the flowers, which arc scarlet,
with a yellow throat, are beautifully dotted with deep scar-
let. It requires the same treatment as the Gesncras, and
flowers freely all the autumn. {Florae des Serres, July.)

138. Tropje^olum Deckeria'num. Decker's Nasturtium.

{Tropaolece.) Venezuela.

A greenhouse climber; growing four Ret hi^h ; with green and crimson (lowers; appearing;
in spring and summer ; cultivated in light, rich soil ; increased by cuttings and seeds. Flore des
Serres, 1819, pi. 490.

" If a habit the most graceful, a form the most delicately
curious, the most elegant contrast of colors, and a happy apti-
tude for ornamenting arbors or metallic trellises, — if all these
united, suflice to recommend a plant to amateurs, — this new
Nasturtium is first among its congeners." Its foliage and
habit are similar to T. 'Lohhiannm ; the calyx is green ; the
spur carmine, tipped with emerald ; and the petals are of a
deep azure tint, delicately fringed ; a rare combination of

510 General Notices.

colors. It is as easy of cultivation as T. Lobbiam/w, and
will prove a great addition to our gardens. (Flore des Ser-
res, July.)

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General JVotices.

CoN'iFER^E IN Scotland. — Taxodium sempervirens and Cryptomeria ja-
ponica. — Young plants of each of tliese Coniferse were planted in situations
in the shrubbery here, in May, 1849, where they remained protected from
the cold winds, but otherwise without any protection or covering, all last
winter. In spring tlie Cryptomeria was apparently as green and fresh as
when planted, but on inspection, I observed that the points of the shoots
were black. It continued without apparent growth, till the end of July or
beginning of August, since which time it lias become much more vigorous
and healthy in appearance, but with slight increase of growtli.

The Taxodium lost its leading shoot, which had not ripened its wood, and
was slightly discolored in spring, but began to shoot anew m June, and has
grown considerably since, and regained its color.

Araucaria imbricata. — Four plants of this had stood out for three win-
ters, without the slightest injury. This spring they were, in part, discol-
ored, and some of them lost several branches. They are ail planted on the
mown grass, and had no protection from the wind and snow, otherwise they
would not have been discolored, as frost, however severe, never seemed to
affect them. Can you inform me whether the discolored spines will con-
tinue a permanent disfigurance to these plants ?

wibies Smiihiana. — This pine has a wonderful property of recovering the
injuries of winter, and even its appearance, in a great degree, towards au-
tumn. Although a few plants of it were not hurt last season, the gTeater
number were somewhat disfigured in spring, and a few killed outright.

Pinus excelsa. — This pine is unquestionably hardy, and yet we injured
several plants of it, by exposing them at too early a stage.

Cupressiis torulosa. — We lost a number of young plants of tliis Cypress,
by putting them out the second year from seed, without covering from tlie
wind. One only survived, and seems now hardy enough to stand out this
winter. We have two plants of tliis Conifer, of which the seed came from
Australia, and one of these was exposed to the severe frosts of last spring,
witliout injury, and has grown considerably this season. If they are the
same species, of which I am not quite sure, they are certainly more hardy
than the plant I formerly raised from Indian grown seed.

We have one specimen of the rare Conifer, from Australia, which Mr.
Anderson exhibited at the Caledonian Horticultural Show this season, but it
is too young to expose this winter. It resembles the Chinese arbor-vitse

Genej'al Notices. 511

mucli more than Cupressus torulosa, and is quite distinct from the t\ro plants
above-mentioned ; I think it hardier and of much more rapid growth, but I
may be mistaken.

Cedrus Deodara. — Even tiiis hardy plant is injured witli us, -when exposed
to tlie winter snow, and cold winds of spring, at too early a stage of its
growtli ; but it recovers its green color and health as the season advances,
only growing less luxuriantly from tlie checks. — {Jour, of Hort., 1850,
p. 633.)

Culture of Kalosanthes Coccinea, (formerly Crassula Coccinea.) —
The Kalosantlies coccinea and varieties, as bedding-plants, cannot be ex-
celled, either in beauty or tlie facility with which tlieir cuttings are struck
and brought into a flowering state. The immense and singularly compact
head of bloom tliat can be obtained from each comparatively small plant,
in about nine montlis from the time the cuttings are put in, combined with
their rich color, renders tliem the most atti'active plants in the parterre.

We will proceed at once to give our mode of cultivating the family for
bedding purposes, knowing, from the numerous inquiries made about our
mode of treatment, that many of our readers will appreciate any information
on the subject ; and those who have only seen these plants cultivated in
pots, for exliibition, will, we are sure, be gratified to learn that they are
equally beautiful when planted out in beds ; for, when well managed, their
fine compact appearance, and the size of the flower, far surpass tliat of indi-
vidual plants grown in pots. Any time about the end of September, we
take some strong points of the growing shoots, and after fonning Uiem into
cuttings of 2h inches in length, cutting close to a joint, and stripping the
leaves from the bottom for about i| of an inch, we lay tliem on the potting
bench to dry for 24 hours. This is necessary, as from the extreme succu-
lence of the plants tliey are apt to rot if put in at once.

Shallow pans or boxes 4 inches deep, and any convenient length and
width, are prepared by putting in 2 inches of drainage, then a little moss or
sphagnum, and over that some lumpy peat or loam an inch deep ; and tlien
an inch of sandy loam, fine lime rubbish and sand, well mixed and pressed
closely down.

The cuttings should be put in about an inch or IJ inch apart, and a slight
watering given to settle tlie soil round them. Place them in any frame or
pit, or even in the greenhouse, close to the glass, and tliey will strike freely,
and continue rooting all tlie winter. The tops will not grow much if kept
near the glass, and plenty of air is allowed to circulate about them ; nor
is it desirable, as the dwarfer the plants are, tlic more novel and beautiful
they look.

In March prepare some compost for potting tliem, by mixing tlu-ee parts
sandy loam, some fine Imie rubbish, a very little leaf soil, or lunijjy peat and
sand. Take the plants from the pans Avith little balls of soil, by raising thera
gently up with tlie potting-stick, and pot them singly in 4 inch pots well
drained. Place them in a frame or pit, witli their tops only 4 or 6 inches
from the glass, and where tlie frost can be excluded ; keeping tlie frame
close for about a week or ten days ; atl.er which, tlicy must be gradually in-

512 General Notices.

'ared to a circulation of air. Tilting the sashes at the sides, by placing the
'tilter between them and the rafler, will be found to answer better than
sliding, or only tilting at the back. The object is to give strength, without
draAving the plants up, and by keeping the glass close to their tops, to cause
them to set flower-buds, which they will readily do under such treatment ;
and by pianting-out time, which with us is about the beginning of June,
every plant, if well managed, will have its head of bloom perfectly formed}
and beginning to expand.

Kalosanthes look best planted in circular or oval beds, placing the tallest
in tiie centre, and gradually descending to the edge ; the last row should be
placed in the ground a little deeper than the rest, and should slightly in-
cline outwards, in order to give a rounded appearance. Any good border
soil seems to suit them ; but if poor, some fresh loam and leaf soil should be
added. We always water the plants well before turning them out of the
pots, and tlie bed also when necessary. Some green moss laid upon the
surface of the bed, gives it a neat appearance, and prevents evaporation.

It will be found that no plant which is so beautiful can be more easily
managed ; and when in flower, it always attracts more notice than anything
e\se.—[Gard. Chron., 1850, p. G14.)

New and Rare Roses of the Present Year. — As the season for
transplanting roses is now approaching, it may be interesting to some of
yx3ur readers to know what novelties are to figure on the stage during the
coming year. In offering a brief description of some of the finest modern
roses, we would not altogether confine ourselves to those of the present
year, surmising tliat many of the previous season are stdl rare and compar-
atively little known. The opinions as to the merits of the individual vari-
eties, have been formed principally from plants bloomed at tlie Cheshunt
Nurseries, although, during a recent tour of six weeks, we have seen the
whole in flower in the most renowned nurseries in Belgium and France.
Do not, however, let it be supposed that we are about to describe all the
new roses : this would prove almost an endless task, and, in our opinion,
scarcely worth the pains. Many we have seen, the names of which are not
worth recording ; otliers are of doubtful merit ; and certain raisers assured
us that tliey had splendid seedlings — charming, superb — but which, unfor-
tunately for Monsieur Anglais, were not then in flower ! It is, therefore,
possible that we may have missed some of the " lions ;" but we are resolved
to introduce such only as we saw and considered of first merit, not wishing
to perplex tlie cultivator witli mere additions, unless they are also improve-
ments. We may mention at the outset, tliat so little profitable have tlie
French growers found the raising of summer roses, that tliey have almost
abandoned this branch of culture. With tlie exception of Harriet Martineau,
a superb white Damask rose, and Paul Ricaut, a crimson hybrid Bourbon,
which is now familiar, at least by name, to most amateurs, we know of no
stars in this one great division of the queen of flowers. For new roses we
must turn to the autumnals, and among them, the hybrid Perpetuals have
been the most productive of novelty. First on our list stands Baronne Hal-
lez, wliich is certainly a rose of merit. It has the same elegant foliage and

' General Notices. 513

habit as Madame Laffay, from -n-hich we should think it a seedling; the
flowers are larger, more double, deeper in color, and the petals much
thicker. Joan of Arc, wliicli belongs to the rare, rather than the quite new,
is a first-rate rose, but a rather shy bloomer ; the flowers are large and well
formed ; the ground color white, witli rosy centre. Soliel d'Austerlitz is a
showy brilliant-crimson rose, sometimes superb, but uncertain ; this is more
rare than new. Belle Americaine is a beautiful rose of American origin ;
the floM'ers are rose-color, with blush edges, and produced in great abun-
dance ; tlie form is unsurpassed ; and the habit of growth dwarf. Madame
Guillot has obtained a great reputation, greater perhaps than it deserves,
but is still a pretty enough rosy-crimson, with very double flowers. George
Lecamus is a greater favorite with us ; the flowers are blush, large and
full, and the form perfect. Madame Pepin is a very beautiful variety;
the flowers are large and full, of a soft rose color ; the back of the pe-
tals almost white. Amandine is of a delicate rose color, also large and full ;
the fastidious would probabl}' complain of a little roughness often visible at
the edges. Berenger is a purplish-crimson rose, distinct, large, and full ;
one of the few good ones recently received from Angers. Princesse Join-
ville is a pretty crimson variety, distinct in color and habit of growth. Gen-
eral Negrier is a beautiful blush rose, of globular form, one of the finest of
the group, but a bad grower : this is also rare ratlier than new. Of the
newest good hybrid Perpetuals, we may mention Madame de Lamoriciere;
a pale-rose colored variety, worthy of a place in every collection ; the form
is cupped ; it is a free grower ; a constant and an abundant bloomer. Na-
omi is also a rose of great merit ; the color is blush, with rose centre ; the
form resembles that of General Allard, but it appears a better grower, and
a more constant autumnal bloomer. This rose was originated at Rouen,
and is at present but little known. Caroline de Sansal has bloomed mag-
nificently at the Cheshunt Nurseries ; the flowers were large and full as
those of Baronne Prevost, their color blush, with rosy flesh centre ; it is also
of vigorous growth. Chereau, whose flowers arc cherry-color wlien newly
opened, gi-adually changing to rose, has also flowered well here. From
flowers of this variety, seen on the Continent, I had formed an unfavorable
opinion of this variety ; but roses have their climates as well as seasons, and
the best roses of England are not seen to the greatest advantage in France.
We may add that the flowers of Chereau are large, full, and of fair form-
Lady Frances Waldegrave is a pretty variety, of a light salmon crimson -,
the flowers are large and full, of good fonn, and produced in great abun-
dance. General Cavaignac is much admired by the many, on account of its
perfect form. The flowers are rosy pink, large and full. Rosina Margottin
is a pretty rose, but resembles too closely the Duchesse de Montpensier ;
we doubt, moreover, whether it is an improvement on it. General Changar-
nier is a very large rose ; the color is violet purple ; it is showy, but some-
what coarse. Leonore d'Este is a pretty distinct flesh-colored variety, large
and full, but apparently a rather shy grower. Reine Mathildc is well
worthy of cultivation, if only for its color, wliich is of the freshest, softest
pink ; it partakes more of the Bourbon rose than any of the preceding, and,

VOL. XVI. NO. XI. 65

514 General Notices.

flowers very constantly. Comte Bobimsky is a remarkable rose in the way
of Labedoyere, but more vigorous ; it is, however, brighter in color than
Geant des Batailles, and the nearest approach of any to scarlet. Standard
of Marengo is a beautiful brilliant crimson variety, of the most perfect form,
wortliy of a place in the most limited collection. This completes our list of
Hybrid Perpetuals ; and we pass on to the Bourbons. We have here four
varieties only, worth describing. The first is L'Aurore du Guide, a bold
flower, very variable in color and quality ; it is sometimes purplish crimson,
opening shyly, at others crimson scarlet, in which state it is surpassingly
beautiful, Apolline is a pretty delicate-shaded rose-color, a free grower,
much in the strain of PieiTe de St. Cyr. Henry Clay is a rosy carmine,
large, full, and of fine form. Eugenie Brean, salmon color, something in
the way of Madame Angelina, is a finely-shaped, full flower, but a small
grower. It will prove a decided acquisition to the skilful cultivator. The
Noisette roses are next on our list of novelties. Caroline Marniesse is tol-
erably well known, but it stUl ranl^s as one of the best of the recent Noi-
settes. Its color is creamy white, and the habit closely resembles that of
the Sempervirene, of which, indeed, it is a hybrid, although blooming freely
late in tlie autumn. Lais is a pretty novelty belonging to this group ; the
color is white ; the flowers are not large, but they are full and of fine form.
Of Tea-scented roses, Madame de St. Joseph, Delice de Plantier, Souvenir
d'un Ami, and Vicomtesse de Cazes are too well known to need describing,
although not so extensively cultivated as tliey deserve to be. The first-
named Avas sent to this establishment a few years ago, by a small Conti-
nental grower, and is little known to other cultivators in England, and posi-
tively unknown in France. It is a superb rose, grown in a pot under glass,
but of little merit out-of-doors. Madame de Salvandy is a large yellow rose,
changing to buff*, not new, but comparatively little known. Madame Viller-
moy is tlie only really new rose in tliis group, and it bears a high character
on tlie Continent. We have not yet had an opportunity of seeing it flower
in perfection in tliis country, but, from the flowers seen, should pronounce
favorably on it. With a few remarks on the Perpetual Moss roses, we shall
close tliis paper. Three only demand notice. First, Mauget, one of the
loveliest roses in existence, but one of the most difficult to cultivate. It is
of the softest rose-color, large, full, and finely shaped. The portrait of it in
the " Rose Garden," is true in every respect. General Dinot is more recent,
less beautiful, but easy of culture ; the color is deeper, approaching to crim-
son purple, but the flower is semi-double. Herman Kegel is the most re-
cent, and perhaps the best of this group. It is a free grower, similar in
color to the last, but more double. The three last named are the best re-
sults of a long course of culture, with tlie view of obtaining autumnal moss
roses, and tliey are unmistakably such. — [Gard. Jour., 1850, p. 643.)

On Pruning Roses. — " As regards the time for pruning, some recom-
mend autumn or winter, while others advise its being done in the beginning
of March ;" Mr. M'Ardell prefers the latter season. " By winter prunhig,"
he says, " the buds break in tlie latter part of the winter, and are almost sure
to be cut off" by late frosts in March. Pruning effects two objects, it makes
compact, handsome trees, free from weak shoots and dead wood — it in-

General Notices. 515

creases the amount of floral beauty tliroughout the summer and autumn. It
is susceptible of three divisions — first, long ; second, moderate ; and third,
close pruning.

Long pruning is employed for all strong, vigorous, free-growing kinds.
The consequence of a vigorous growing Rose being close pruned is, that it
will make a quantity of strong shoots, generally springing from the crown
close to the stock, and very likely no flower during the whole year, at all
events, not until late in the autumn. The proper plan is to leave from five
to eight strong shoots, placed as regularly as possible, to cut tliem back so
as to leave four or five buds of last year's wood, and tlien carefully to prune
away all weak and dead branches. Roses do not flower well in the centre of
the bush, and tlierefore that part should be Avell tliinned out, leaving the
branches as free of each other as possible. As a general rule, it is not
right to cut into the bush below the preceding year's Avood ; but when the
trees become old, it is necessary now and then, to cut away a portion of the
old wood, which becomes clubbed ; and this applies more or less to all Rose
trees. These remarks apply to most of the Hybrid Chinas and Hybrid
Bourbons, also to some of tlie Hybrid Provence, Hybrid Perpetuals, and
Bourbons.

IModeiate pruning consists in using the knife more freely than in the
former case, in leaving but two eyes of last year's wood, and in carefully
training the branches, so as to make the head round and compact. As
Roses tliat require moderate pruning, have a greater natural tendency to
flower, tlian those in tlie last mentioned class, a little inattention is not so
injurious to them. Under this head may be enumerated the greater part of
our newest and best Roses, including tlie Moss, Gallica, Damask, Hybrid
Damask, Perpetual, and a great portion of the best Hybrid Perpetuals, and
Bourbons.

The third method, or close pruning system, is used for those Roses which
are termed dwarf growers, or that make but little wood. This class is not
numerous in comparison with the others, but it contains many of the bright-
est gems of tlie Rosery. They succeed better on dwarf stocks, than on
those four or five feet high. In some cases tliey are shy growers, and apt
to over-flower their strength. This is obviated by close pruning, as the
strongest shoots come from the crown ; and as it is the interest of tlie
grower to get wood in this class, the last year's shoots should be cut away
pretty freely. Under this head may be classed a few of the best Moss
Roses, and many Hybrid Perpetuals, Damask Perpetuals, and some of the
Bourbon tribe."— (//ori. Jour., 1850, p. 068.)

Pru>i>'g Newly Planted Fruit Trees. — In an article wliich appeared
in your valuable paper of tlie 28th of September, Mr. Cramb lays down a rule
for planting and prunuig fruit trees, which he says is not original. I cer-
tainly must confess it is quite new to me. Having considered the kind, sit-
uation, &c., says Mr. Cramb, a circular hole should be made three or four
feet wide and one foot deep, the bottom of which should be made solid to
prevent the roots entering tlie subsoil — the water too, I should suppose. I
should like to know what kind of a tree it is that requires but one foot of soil
in depth and say four feet in diameter, which gives little more than twelve

516 General Notices.

square feet of soil for the tree to grow in ? Instead of but one foot, I say
two, or at least eighteen inches next the wall, gradually falling to the front
of the border, where a drain should be made the whole length of the border,
three feet deep, to carry off excess of moisture. I agree with the bottom
being made solid at that depth, but not at a less one. In pruning tlie roots,
we are told to cut from the underside at a sharp angle. Now I think that
the incision should be at an obtuse angle. Also we are told to paint our
young plants where we cut their roots. Paint, of course, cannot be poison-
ous, or the parts touched with it would die, unless it should be one of those
trees tliat have tliat tenacity of life which bears almost any amount of pun-
ishment ; certainly that is not the peach. Newly planted trees should not
be pruned until June, says Mr. Cramb. Now, with due respect to Mr.
Cramb, I must beg to differ from him on tliat point, as our summers are not
too long to ripen the wood of the peach or nectarine that is pruned in March,
much less tliose that have to make tlieir growth and ripen tlieir wood after
May : I say early in April is quite late enough to prune them. The direc-
tions contained in the latter part of his article, I have not seen practised,
neitlier do I intend where I have tlie management. — [In a very light and
very dry soil especially, the subsoil 18 inches, or even twice 18 inches
deep, would be proper; but in soils where the subsoil is naturally cold
and inclined to be wet, we suppose most gardeners would prefer the lesser
depth, and this holds good with all kinds of trees. As a beginning this
will do very well. Try again.] — [Gard. Jour., 1850, p. 644.)

Remedy for the Mealy Bug. — ^tlereman's fluid and Kyle's liquid
have been recommended for this purpose ; but as a correspondent says of
the latter, " he cannot get it." I do not know of any one who sells these
mysterious compounds ; but I can with confidence recommend a liquid free
from mystery, and that may be applied with safety — spirits of wine. I first
tried whiskey ; afterwards I used spirits of wine, dipping the young shoots
of justicias, clerodendrons, torenias, &c., into it, without tlieir being injured
in the least. I have also applied it with a feather and camel's hair pencil.
As a trial, let two large mealy bugs be placed on a leaf, touch one with
water, and the bug will remain dry and uninjured ; touch the otlier with
whiskey or spirits of wine, it will appear soaked through, die, and turn
brown directly. — {Gard. Chron., 1850, p. 550.)

Plumbago Larpentje as a Herbaceous Plant. — I am pleased to no-
tice, by the Journal of September 28, that this little beauty is liliely to be-
come a favorite as a hardy herbaceous plant. It has proved hardy here ; and
not only so, but some suckers that happened to be left in the ground, when
most of the plants were removed in the autumn, have sprung up and bloomed
well. The plumbago was sown witli mignonette this summer ; and the for-
tuitous appearance of the blue flowers of the former have so much enhanced
the beauty of the latter, that I venture to recommend that from henceforth
every bed of mignonette be enlivened witli a few plants of Plumbago Lar-
pentas. I also find the Plumbago Larpentaj useful for blooming in tlie con-
servatory from tlie latter end of August to October ; and, when well grown,
it is really a beautiful object. — {Gard. Jour., 1850, p. 659.)

General Notices. 517

Mr. Saul's New Mode of Budding Trees, — What Mr. Saul calls his
new mode of budding, is tlins described : — " In budding, the top bud of the
shoot should be commenced with, cutting from about one-eighth of an
inch below tlie bud or eye, to from half an inch to an inch above it, in
order tliat there may be a sufficiency of bark to hold with the fingers with-
out nobbing the portion which is to be inserted. Take out tlie wood ; next
make an incision in tlie shoot of tlie stock close into the main stem, and
about half an inch long, this is long enough ; cut across at top, raise the
bark with tlie end of the budding knife witliout bruising it, and insert the
bud. It is now to be tied with a little worsted or cotton ; one tie below the
eye, and two above, will be ample as its entire length will not be more than
half an inch, and a quarter of that below tlie eye. The most inexperienced
amateur need not give more than two rounds below tlie eye, and three above,
but tlie practical workman will find tlie number stated to be sufiicient.''
[Jour, of Hort, 1850, p. 669.)

Hollyhocks. — If I were not afraid of advancing a horticultural heresy, I
should say that many amateurs prefer Hollyhocks to Dahlias. The Holly-
hocks of Belgium and Germany had a great celebrity long before they
appeared among us. The collections of the Prince of Salm Dyck, and of
M. Van Houtte, of Ghent, have been much admired. In other places varie-
ties have been obtained with leaves more or less lobed, more or less entire,
more or less palmate, all with flowers large, full, or colored differently from
tliose of other plants, being sometimes of a more or less dark mahogany
color, at otliers of a delicate tint, and varying from the purest white to the
darkest glossy black. Some progress has also been made in the cultivation of
those plants by ourselves. Since 1830 M. Pehssier, Jun., a gentleman of
Prado, has cultivated Hollyhocks, and from the seeds of a pink variety has
succeeded in obtaining plants with flowers of a delicate rose color, and
which, in consequence of the extreme delicacy of their tints, and regularity
of form, may serve both to encourage perseverance and as a good type for
seed. In the following year, from the seeds of pink flowers, he obtained a
beautiful, brilliant, clean, sulphur-colored specimen, perfect in every respect.
It is from tlie seeds of those two plants that he has obtained all the other
beautiful and remarkable varieties which he now possesses, after a lapse of
ten years from his first attempts. As a general rule, M. Pelissier prefers
flowers with six exterior petals, with entire edges, well open, well set out,
of a middling size, of a pure, clean, brilliant color, and forming a perfect
Anemone. Seeds sown in the spring and in unwatered ground, never flower
till tlie second year. Experience has shown that if the seeds are sown in
September, and in earth which is kept fresh, flowers may be obtained in
June or July following, -ivhich are in no way inferior to those of spring-sown
seeds. M. Pelissier follows tlie following plan of procedure. The seeds,
which are taken as soon as tliey are ripe, from good specimens, are sown in
September, in a border a foot and a half deep, and composed of good coarse-
ly sifted garden earth, mixed witli well worked soil. The seeds, if they are
covered lightly with leaf-mould, and the soil is kept fresh, begin to swell at
the end of a week ; they require little care till spring, as they are not hurt
by frost, In the spring tlie ground must be repricked, occasionally hoed

518 Domestic Notices.

and frequently watered. As the flowers expand, M. Pelissier removes what-
ever is not conformable to the type he has chosen, or is not of a marked
color, and like a perfect Anemone. It is by douig this every year that he
has obtained 20 remarkable varieties, the names and characteristics of which
have been kindly ftirnished by him, and are given below. 1. Souvenir de
Malmaison, delicate rose, flower very full ; perfection. 2. Geant de
Batailles, red, flower very full. 3. Vestale, fine pure white, flower very full.
4. Anais, rose, flower very full ; perfection. 5. Chromatella, dark yellow,
flower very full. 6. Jeune Euph^mie, clear red, flower beautiful, full ; per-
fection. 7. Reine Victoria, cinnamon colored, shaded, flower very full. 8.
Grand Peking, nankeen-colored, flower very full. 9. Amarante, dark red,
flower very full. 10. Isabelle, dark red, flower very full. 11. Grand Col-
bert, dark rose, streaked, flower full, very perfect 12. Marie Gabrielle,
fleshy white, flower full ; beautiful. 13. Matilde, clear cherry, flower very
full. 14. Solfaterre, very clear yellow, flower very full. 15. Boule de
Neige, beautiful white, flower well rounded, full. 16. Ophirie, yellow with
a tint of pink, flower very full. 17. Arlequin, clear, approaching to dark
violet, spotted with white. 18. Desprez, white, middle yellow. 19, Proser-
pine, very dark red, flower very full. 20. Pluton, black, flower very full. —
{Gard. Chron., 1850, p. 551.)

Art. II. Domestic JVotices.

PoMOLOGicAL CONVENTION AT St. Albans, Vt. — At the close of the
Annual Fair of the Franklin County Agricultural Society, Vt., October 4,
an informal meeting of gentlemen residing in the county was held for the
examination and discussion of fruits suitable for cultivation in Lake Cham-
plain. Quite a number of fruits were exhibited, and Mr. J. Battey, of
Keeseville, N. Y., contributed a great variety of apples and pears, A report
of the Convention, which was published in the St. Albans papers, has been
sent to us ; but we have no room now only to notice the meeting, and its
good results. After the fruits had been fully discussed, it was voted tliat a
Horticultural Association be formed for the Valley of Lake Cham-
plain, and a committee was chosen to carry the same into efl^ect. The fol-
lowing preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted : —

Whereas, in the opinion of tliis Convention, the Horticultural interests of
the Valley of Lake Champlain might be greatly promoted by the aid of a
Horticultural Association ;

^nd whereas, the admirable adaptation of our soil and climate to the
varied pursuits of horticulture — the enterprise and intelligence of our culti-
vators— tlie proximity of most of our large villages to the Lake, and the con-
sequent facility of communication between them — and tlie growing taste for
horticultural pursuits amongst us, — conspire to urge, not only the utility of
such an institution, when once properly organized and in successful opera-
tion, but also the practicabUity of accomplishing that object: therefore,

Resolved, That a Committee, consisting of nine gentlemen from the differ-

Albany and Rensselaer Horticultural Society. 519

ent counties bordering' on the Lake, be appointed by this Convention, to
make the necessary arrangements, and issue a call for a Convention, to be
held at such time and place as they may think proper, — for the purpose of
organizing a Horticultural Society for the Valley of Lake Champlain.

The following named gentlemen were then unanimously appointed such
Committee : Jonathan Battey, Keeseville ; Hon. Henry Ross, Essex ; Hon.
John H. Boyd, Whitehall ; Prof. E. S. Carr, Castleton ; Albert Chapman,
Middleburj' ; Chauncy Goodrich, Burlington ; Jasper Curtis, St. Albans ;
A. J. Moses, Champlain ; Stephen Macomber, Grand Isle. The Convention
then adjourned. — Ed.

CiKciiX^JATi Horticultural Societt's Annual Exhibition. — From
tlie reports of this exhibition, which reach us through the Cincinnati papers,
it was remarkably successful, and the display of flowers, rare plants and
fruits, exceeded by far any previous exhibition of the Society. Gentlemen
from the East, who had attended the shows of the Massachusetts Horticultural
Society, hesitated not to pronounce tlie Exhibition superior to anything they
had ever witnessed. The Gazette says :

The ornamental handiwork presented an agreeable and attractive feature
of the Horticultural rooms. Great labor and pains have been bestowed in
arranging tlie most fantastic combinations of all the varieties of beautiful
flowers. We are not aware to whom this credit is due, but the individual in
question may entertain the pleasing reflection that this exhibition of inge-
nuity and taste has not been unrewarded by the appreciating throng which
has visited this delightful place of resort.

We do not feel at liberty to omit this opportunity of paying a tribute to
the taste of Miss Rebecca Orange and Mr. R. Davis, who added much to
the attractions of these rooms by their tasteful and elegant plans of cottages
and gardens, in which were arranged pools of water, shells, flowers, and
many other well conceived accompaniments.

At tlie close of the exhibition the articles displayed were sold at auction,
yielding tlie handsome sum of six hundred dollars. The admission fees
amounted to one thousand, thus making the entire receipts sixteen hundred
dollars. The official report has not come to hand ; if it reaches us in season
we shall notice it in our next. — Ed.

Art. ni, Albany and Rensselaer Horticultural Society.

Annual Exhibition for 1850. — September 18. In accordance with the
programme for meetings for 1850, the Society met at the Agricultural Hall,
on Wednesday tlie 18th instant, V. P. Douw, Esq., its President, in the
chair. This being the annual autumnal exhibition, the rooms were kept
open for public inspection during Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and
were visited by large numbers of ladies and gentlemen of the city and its
vicinity. The display was rich and very interesting, surpassing any which
have preceded it in the extent of new varieties of fruits, flowers and vegeta-

520 Albany and Rensselaer Horticultural Society.

bles, and evincing the gratifying fact that our growers, both professional
and amateur, arc constantly on the qui vive, to introduce botli from home
and abroad all that is new and valuable.

Fruits. — The principal exhibitors of fruits were V. P. Douw, who ex-
hibited 18 varieties of pears. Dr. Wendell, 34 varieties of pears. Isaac
Denniston, '22 varieties of plums. E. P. Prentice, 25 varieties of apples. E.
Dorr, 12 varieties of plums. Wilson, Thorburn & Teller, 45 varieties of
pears. Mr. R. Manning, of Salem, sent specimens of the Wendell pear, a
new seedling, raised by tire late Dr. Van Mons, of Belgium. The thanks
of tlie Society were tendered to Mr. Manning for his contribution. The pre-
miums were awarded as follows : —

Apples. — For the best and most extensive collection, 32 varieties, E. P.
Prentice, $3.
For the second best and most extensive collection, 21 varieties, Wilson,

Thorburn & Teller, $2.
For the best one variety exhibited, R. I. Greening, M. V. B. SchryA'er,$l.
Pears. — For the best and most extensive collection, 53 varieties, Wilson,
Thorburn &. Teller, $3.
For the second best and second most extensive collection, 34 varieties,

Dr. H. Wendell, $2.
For the best six varieties — White Doyenn6, Seckel, Flemish Beauty,
Beurr6 Bosc, Louise Bonne of Jersey, and Beurr6 d'Aremberg — to
V. P. Douw, #2.
For the best one variety, to Wilson, Thorburn & Teller — White Doy-
enne— $1.
[The rule required that six specimens should be shown ; many others
exhibited very fine specimens of this variety, but not in sufficient
numbers to enable them to compete.]
Peaches — For tlie best and most extensive collection, to Dr. A. March,
for 12 varieties, $3.
For second best and second most extensive collection, to Wilson,

Thorburn & Teller, for 8 varieties, $2.
For best three varieties, to E. Dorr for President, Morris Red Rareripe

and Crawford's Late, $1.
For best one variety, to L. Menand for George IV., $1.
Plums — For the best and most extensive collection, to Isaac Denniston,
twenty-three varieties, $3.
For the second best and second most extensive collection, to E. Dorr,

twelve varieties, gi2.
For the best one variety, sLx specimens exhibited, to I. Denniston, Esq.,
for Reine Claude, $1.
NECTARiNes — For the best one variety, six specimens to be exhibited,
to V. P. Douw, for Newington, $1.

[The other premiums offered were not competed for.]
•Grapes — Foreign, for tlie best two varieties exhibited, three of each vari-
ety, to V. P. Douw, for Golden Chasselas and Miller's Burgundy.
[The other premiums offered were not competed for.]

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 521

Grapes, iN'ative, for tJie best collection, to E. Dorr, for four varieties, $3.
For tlie best two varieties, to Erastus Pease, for Catawbas and Isabellas,

Water Melons — For tlie best two varieties, to V. P. Douw, for Joppa
and Spanish, $2.

[The others offered were not considered worthy of premium.]
Musk Melons — For the best one variety, L. Menand, for Green Citrons, $1.
[The other varieties offered were not deemed worthy of premiums.

Floral Designs, Bouquets, &c. — The committee report that there was
exhibited, by J. Dingwall, a splendid floral design, in antique form, four feet
in height, composed of choice flowers, and having beautiful petit bouquets
placed on each corner, to which the premium of $3 is awarded.

By N. Tillman, from Dr. Wendell's garden, a rustic temple in gothic form,
nine feet in height, elevated on a platform five feet square, covered with
green moss ; the interior ceiling was covered with gay flowers artistically
arranged, and over each angle a,nd the roof, creeping vines of Cobae^a scan-
dens and Maurandia Barclayana were trained ; these vines were growing in
pots, which were secreted in the moss platform ; $2 to tliis design.

By Wni. Newcomb, a beautiful flat floral ornament, arranged with taste
and composed of choice flowers, $2.

By J. Wilson, twenty vase bouquets, composed of dahlias, roses, &c.,
beautifully arranged, for which he will receive the thanks of the society.
Three round hand bouquets, most exquisitely arranged, composed of rare and
beautiful exotics, $\. Two flat hand bouquets, an-anged with like taste and
skill, and composed of equally rare and beautiful flowers, to one of which $1
is awarded.

By J. Rathbone, a large round vase bouquet, most beautifully arranged,
and composed of rare exotics, as stephanotus, lioyas, pelargoniums, fuchsias,
&c. &c., $2.

By L. Menand, a basket bouquet, composed of rare and beautiful flowers
most exquisitely arranged, $'2.

Greenhouse Plants and Flowers. — The principal exhibitor was
Mr. L. Menand, who was awarded the prize of i^.

A great number of dahlias were shown by Messrs. Briggs, Newcomb,
Wilson, Menand, and E. Corning, Esq. ; Dr. Wendell also displayed a lot of
phloxes, including some superb seedlings. The premiums were awarded as
follows : —

Dahlias — For the best display, to N. Briggs, <j^i.

For the best twelve dissimilar blooms, to N. Briggs, for Constantia, Lady
Sale, Viscount Ressigneur, Admiral Stopford, McKenzie's Perfection,
Miss Chaplain, Arethusa, Caleb Cope, Rainbow, Ultimatum, Madam
Zahler, and Toison D'Or, .$^.

For the best six dissimilar blooms, to N. Briggs, for Toison D'Or, Are-
thusa, Madam Zahler, Rainbow, Lady Sale and Princess Radzville, $1.

For the best flower, specimen bloom, to J. Wilson, for Princess Radz-
ville, $\.

VOL. XVI. NO. XI. 66

522 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Roses — For tlie best ten varieties, to L. Menand, for La Reine, Souvenir
de Malmaison, Bougere, Eugene Beauharnois, Aimee Vibert, Geante
des Batailles, Devoniensis, Marquis Boccella, Hermosa and Cliroma-
tella, f2.
Verbenas. — For the best twelve varieties, to N. Briggs, for Robinson's
Defiance, Eclipse, Roseura superbum, Queen, Polkii, Beauty Su-
preme, Suzette, Buist's new Blue, Fire Ball, Variegata, Monk's Pur-
ple, and Virginal, .$2.

For the best six varieties, to D. T. Vail, for Robinson's Defiance, Beauty
Supreme, Polkii, Queen, Eclipse, and Suzette, f 1.

For the best seedling, never before exhibited, to N. Tillman, from Dr.
Wendell's garden, $1.
Phloxes. — For the best ten varieties, to N. Tillman, from Dr. Wendell's
garden, for Reine de Jour, Princess Marianne, Anais ChauvieVe, Blanc
de Neuilly, Dodonise, Mazeppa, Fleur de Marie, Rosea superba,
Auguste, and Almerine, $2.

For the best seedling, never before exhibited, to J. Wilson, $1.
Asters. — For the best display, to Wm. Newcomb, of Pittstown, f 2.

For the second best, to J. Wilson, of Albany, $1.
Vegetables. — There was a fine display, and tlie following premiums
were awarded: —

For the best new Seedling potatoes, the premium is awarded to Dr. H.
Wendell, for very fine specimens ; fifteen varieties exhibited, $%

For best squashes, to E. P. Prentice, for variety Vegetable Marrow, $\.

For best long blood beets, to V. P. Duow.

For best carrots, to D. Watts, Altringham, $\.

For best egg plant fruit, to V. P. Duow, purple, $1.

For best celery, to N. Tillman, Seymour's White Giant, $1.

For best winter cabbage, Drumhead, $1.

For the best half peck of tomatoes, to J. Dingwall, $\.

For the best exliibition of tomatoes, to Erastus Cornmg, Jun., $].

For the best sLx specunens of martynias, to Wm. Newcomb, $1.

For the best specimens of okra, to V. P. Douw, f 1.

Art. IV. Massachusetts Horliculiural Society.

Saturday, September 21, 1850.— An adjourned meeting of the Society was
held to-day, — the President in the chair.

The tlianks of the Society were voted to the Committee of Arrangements
for the very acceptable manner in which they had performed their duties. •

Voted, That a committee be appointed to cause an inventory to be made
of tlie glass ware, baskets, &c., belonging to the Society, and that no per-
son be allowed to carry any article of furniture away from the Hall. J.
Breck, C. M. Hovey, and Jos. Lovett, were appointed tlie committee.

A committee of tliree, consisting of Jos. Lovett, Jos. Breck, and E. Wight,
was appointed to nominate a list of officers for tlie ensuing year.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 523

It was voted that, hereafter, the Society sliall not loan any part of its
furniture, glass ware, baskets, &-c.

Adjourned one week to September 28.

September 28. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, —
the President in the chair.

No business of importance was transacted, and the meeting was dissolved.

Exhibited. — Flowers : The exliibition of Dahlias for premiums took place
to-day, and some very fine flowers were put up. The competitors were not
so numerous as we had expected, nor the flowers so good, as a whole, as we
had anticipated from the cool moist summer. Very few of the fine new
sorts were shown ; the principal were Mad. Zahler, Queen of the East,
Buflfalo Girl, and Florence Dombey, in the collection of Messrs. Hovey, and
Mr. Seldon in the stand of Mr. Spear. We give tlie names of the flowers
in the various stands.

The principal exhibitors were Messrs. Hovey & Co., P. Barnes, J. W.
Brown, Gen. H. K. Oliver, Jas. Nugent, J. Gordon, L. Davenport, S.
Sweetser, Isaac Spear, C. A. Hewens, J. Hovey, A. Bowditch and others.

PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED.

Dahlias. — In divisions and classes as follows : —

DIVISION A.

Premier Prize. — To P. Barnes, for the best twelve dissimilar flowers, the
Society's silver medal, $5 : — for Toison d'Or, Miss Vyse, Beeswing,
Andromeda, Antagonist, Miss Blackmore, Great Mogul, Louis Philippe,
Mr. Seldon, Arethusa, Lady Sale.

Specimen Bloom. — To J. Gordon, for Mr. Seldon, $3.

Specimen Blooms of Various Colors. — Best Yellow, to C. A. Hewens,
for Cleopatra ; Rose, to J. Nugent, for Lady Cooper ; Tipped, to Hovey
& Co., for Miss Vyse ; Red, to Hovey & Co., for Beeswing ; Scarlet, to
Hovey & Co., for Boule de Feu : Buff, to Hovey & Co., for Toison
d'Or ; Dark, to Hovey &- Co., for Admiral Stopford ; Crimson, to J.
Hovey, for Marshal Soult ; Maroon, to I. Spear, for Arethusa ; IfTiite,
to P. Barnes, for Antagonist ; Orange, to I. Spear, for Latour I'Au-
vergne.

DIVISION B.

Class I. — For the best twenty-four dissimilar blooms, to Hovey & Co.,
$7, for Marquis of Aylesbury, Beeswing, Minn, Pickwick, Mad. Wachy,
Cleopatra, Florence Dombey, Miss Blackmore, Baron Frettan, Buffalo
Girl, Viscount Resegneur, Henry Clay, Hamlet, Imbricata, Queen of
the French, Remembrancer, Mad. Zahicr, Lady of the Lake, Miss
Vyse, Arethusa, Gem (Oakley's), Argo, Mrs. Shaw Le Fevre, and Essex
Triumph.
For the second best, to P. Barnes, $5. (No names received.)
Class II. — For the best eighteen dissimilar blooms, to Hovey & Co., $6, for
Toison d'Or, Miss Vyse, Beeswing, Gem, Marquis of Aylesbury,
Mimosa, Baron Frettan, Mad. Wachy, Viscount Resegneur, Miss
Halleck, Buflfalo Girl, Mad. Zahler, Hamlet, Pickwick, Minn, Princess
Radzville, Hertha, and Queen of the French.

524 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

For the second best, to P. Barnes, $4.

Class III. — For the best twelve dissimilar blooms, to Hovey & Co., $5, for
Minn, Essex Triumph, Louis Philippe, Lady of the Lake, Baron Frettan,
Miss Vyse, Buffalo Girl, Pickwick, Constantia, Andromeda, Hermione,
Mad. Wachy.
For the second best, to J. Gordon, $3.

Fruit: From J. P. Gushing, specu^tiens of the folloM'ing pears, from trees
in various situations, as indicated : Doyenn^ Gris, under glass, and from a
wall ; D. Blanc, from espalier and standard ; Beurre Bosc, from a wall ;
Urbaniste, from espaliers and standard ; Brown Beurr^, wall, espalier and
standard ; Altliorpe Crassane, espa'lier ; Edwards's Elizabeth, espalier ; Belle
Lucrative, wall and espalier ; Gansell's Bergamot, wall ; Winter Nelis, wall ;
Beurre Diel, wall ; Styrian, wall ; Dix, standard ; Andrews, espalier and
standard ;- Spice, standard ; D'Aranville, received from W. Kenrick ; Catil-
lac, standard ; Las Canas, standard ; St. Andre, espalier. Many of them
were not in eating, but all the specimens were finely groAvn.

From O. Pettee, thirty-three seedling peaches, some of them very good.
From S. Sweetser, Louise Bonne of Jersey, Bartlett, and one kind, unnamed.
J. Gordon, Andrews pears, fine. F. Dana, Andrews pears, superior. G.
Merriam, Morris White peaches. E. Cleaves, Beurre Bosc, fine. O. N.
Towne, Brown Beurr^, Duchess of Angouleme, Beurr^ Diel, and Columbia
pears ; also Roman Nectarines. A. W. Stetson, Isabella grapes. F. Tudor,
Seedling peaches, very fine. W. Monroe, fine Seedling peaches. W.
Frost, Beurre d'Aremberg pears, and three sorts, unknown ; also peaches
and apples, unnamed. S. Driver, Beurre Bosc, Seckel, Andrews, and Winter
Nelis pears, all good. Hovey & Co., Brunswick, Brown Turkey, White
Marseilles, White and Brown Ischia figs. Geo. Walsh, fine Bartlett pears,
and Imperial Gage and Damson plums. Mrs. Crehore, Diana grapes, very
fine. Winship & Co., Filberts and Medlars.

Fruits tested by tlie Committee. Seedling peaches, called Mary, from W.
Munroe, Concord, of great beauty and fine quality.

Oct. 5. — The stated quarterly meeting of tlie Society was held to-day, —
the President in tlie chair.

The choice of officers for the ensuing year took place to-day, and the fol-
lowing persons were elected : —

President — Samuel Walker,

Vice Presidents — Benjamin V. French, Cheever Newhall, Edward M.
Richards, Joseph S. Cabot.

Treasurer — William R. Austin.

Corresponding Secretm-y — Eben. Wight.

Recording Secretary — Daniel Leach.

Professor of Botany and Vegetable Physiology — John Lewis Russell.

Professor of Entomology — T. W. Harris, M. D.

Professor of Horticultural Chemistn/ — E. N. Horsford.

Committee on Fruits — Joseph S. Cabot, Chairman : Ebon. Wight, Josiah
Lovett, Joseph Breck, C. M. Hovey, J. S. Sleeper, W. C. Strong.

Committee on Flowers — David Haggerston, Chairman : Alex. McLellan,

Massachusetts Horticiiltiiral Society. 525

E. A. Story, F. Lyman Winsliip, H. \V. Button, Parker Barnes, Azell
Bowditch.

Committee on Vegetables — Aaron D. Wek?, Chairman : Augustus Parker,
James Nugent, S. W. Cole, A. B. Moore, A. D. Williams, D. T. Curtis.

Committee on lAhrary — C. M. Hovey, Chairman : H. W. Button^ R. M.
Copeland, Joseph Breck, Geo. Wilson.

Committee on Synonipns of Fruit — M. P. Wilder, Chairman: P. B. Hovey,
Robert Manning, Josiah Lovett, J. S. Cabot.

Executive Committee — The President, Chairman : the Treasurer, Marshall
P. Wilder, E. M. Richards, Otis Johnson.

Committee for establishing Premiums — J. S. Cabot, D. Haggerston, A. D.
Weld, Josiah Lovett, P. B. Hovey.

Finance Committee — ^Marshall P. Wilder, Chairman : Josiah Stickney, Otis
Johnson.

Committee on Publication — Eben. Wight, Chairman : Josiah Lovett,
Joseph Breck, T. Leach, J. S. Cabot, D. Haggerston, A. D. Weld.

Committee on Gardens — Jos. S. Cabot, Chairman : Joseph Breck, W. R«
Austin, A. D. Weld, Josiah Lovett.

Samuel Frothingham, Jr., of Milton Hill, and Nathan Durfee, of Fall
River, Avere elected subscription members.

The thanks of the Society were presented to the American Institute for a
copy of tlieir Journal.

Adjourned four weeks to November 2.

Exhibited. — Fruit: From F, Tudor, Swan's Orange, Louise Bonne of
Jersey, Duchess of Angouleme, Bize de la Motte, Glout Morceau, and
Columbia, all very superior specimens, raised at Nahant ; also, apples, prob-
ably the Fall Jenneting. Josiah Lovett, Drap d'Or, Porter, Dutch Codlin,
Gravenstein, and Oliphant (?) apples, all fine. J. G. Gunderson, Ribston
Pippin apples. M. S. Lincoln, Duchess of Angouleme. H. Howe, Marie
Louise, fine. F. Dana, Louise Bonne of Jersey, fine. J. Mann, Flemish
Beauty, and Beurr6 Bosc pears, fine ; also, apple quinces. B. D. Emerson,
fine Black Hamburgh grapes. G. Merriam, Crawford's Late peaches.
J. Gordon, Buffum, White Doyenne, Brown Beurre, and Crofl Castle pears,
all fine ; also, Hubbardston Nonsuch apples, and Coels Golden Drop plums,
very superior. J. Washburn, Orange quinces.

From O. Johnson, fine Urbaniste pears, and Black Hamburgh grapes.
W. C. Strong, Chasselas Musqn^, White Chasselas, Esperione, St. Peters,
Red Chasselas, Black Prince, Zinfindal, Black Muscat, (?) Grizzly Frontig-
nan, and Black Hamburgh grapes, all good. J. S. Sleeper, Louise Bonne
of Jersey, Glout Morceau, White Doyenn6, Seckel, Buffum, Beurre Diel,
and Passe Colmar pears, all fine. E. Cleaves, Black Hamburgh and White
Frontignan grapes, fine. S. Driver, Beurre Bosc and Seckel pears. H.
Vandine, Buffum, Flemish Beauty, Seckel, and two other sorts pears ; very
fine Coe's Golden Drop and Egg plums, and Porter apples. F. King, very
fine Coe's Golden Drop plums. J. Hyde & Son, Crawford's Late peaches,
and Collins' pears, from the original tree in Watertown. Unnamed fruits
were exliibited by several contributors.

526 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Fruits tested by the Committee. Oliphant (?) apple, from J. Lovett, large,
tender, and fine quality. Collins' seedling pears, melting, juicy and fine.
Reine Claude de Bavay plums, from M. P. Wilder, sweet and very fine.

Oct. 12. — Exhibited. — Feuits : From Henry Vandine, pears, Buffum,
finely colored, Flemish Beauty, Marie Louise, Seckel ; plums, Coe's Golden
Drop. A. Emerson, apples. Duchess of Oldenburgh, and one dish for a
name. J. Stickney, peaches in variety. G. Merriam, peaches, Crawford's
Late, Bergen's Yellow. A. Denton, pears, Beurre d'Amanlis. J. J. Low,
pears, Beurre Diel, Beurr6 Bosc. C. E. Grant, peaches in variety ; quinces,
fine ; grapes, Isabella. A. W. Stetson, grapes, Isabella. W. C. Strong,
grapes. Black Hamburgh, Gascoigne, Black Muscat (?), Rose Chasselas,
Grizzly Frontignan, St. Peters, Zinfindal. E. Wight, apples. Northern
Spy. This was the first exhibition of this apple grown here; the specimens
from a graft four years old. E. Jackson, pears, Louise Bonne of Jersey. J.
Dane, pears, Beurre Diel, Napoleon, Louise Bonne of Jersey, and Beurre Por-
tugal (?). O. Johnson, apples, of a large size, good appearance, and presumed
to be a seedling. [Probably the Fall Jenneting.] B. D. Emerson, grapes,
Sweet Water, Black Hamburgh. Ezra Cleaves, plum, Coe's Golden Drop ;
grapes. Sweet Water, Black Hamburgh. J. F. Allen, pears, Seckel ;
grapes. Bishop, fine, Wilmot's new Black Hamburgh, Golden Chasselas, De
Candolle. J. S. Sleeper, pears, DL\, fine, Louise Bonne of Jersey. L. Bell,
apples, Seaver's Sweet. F. King, peaches and plums. Josiah Lovett, pears,
Paradise of Automne, fine.

Oct. 19. — Exhibited. — Fruits : From F, Tudor, very fine Duchess of
Angouleme and Swan's Orange pears, ftilly mature. H. Vandine, Flemish
Beauty, Buffum, Seckel, Pitt's Prolific and Marie Louise, very fine ; also,
Blue Imperatrice plums. Miller's Burgundy grapes, and Orange and Portu-
gal quinces. D. Beal, Black Hamburgh grapes, open culture, good size,
but not fully mature. C. Weston, Plymouth, Glout Morceau, Henry IV,
Dix and Pitt's Prolific ; also, English Russet and Helton's Sweeting apples.
J. Washburn, Marie Louise, Henry IV, and Pitt's Prolific pears ; also, Por-
tugal, Orange, and Seedling quinces. J. F. Allen, one Buerre Bosc pear,
weigliing 12^ ounces. C. E. Grant, good Isabella grapes. E. Cleaves,
Beurre de Capiauraont pears. C. H. P. Plympton, White Doyenne pears.
F. Dana, very fine Duchess of Angouleme, Beurre Diel, Winter Nelis and
Monarch pears, and Orange quinces. J. S. Sleeper, Catillac pears and
Hubbardston Nonsuch apples. E. Smith, fine Easter Beurre pears. E.
Cheever, Coe's Golden Drop plums. O. N. Towne, Autumn Bergamot and
Lawrence pears. S. Downer, Jr., Belle Lucrative pears. B. Guild, St.
Germain and White Doyenne pears. M. P. Wilder, Frederica Bremer pears,
from J. C. Hastings, Clinton, N. Y. ; and Sheldon pears, from Clyde, Wayne
Co., N. Y. A. Emerson, Duchess of Oldenburgh apples. Fruits for name,
from J. H. Eastburn, J. J. Low and others.

Fruits tested by tlie Committee : Swan's orange, from F. Tudor and Hovey
& Co., proved unusually high flavored. Beurr6 Sprin, from J. Lovett,
fine flavor. Grapes, from N. Longworth, among them a seedling, which, if
it ripens early, may prove a desirable variety.

Horticultural Opei'ations for November. 527

HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS

rOR NOVEMBER.
FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines will now require but little attention. The leaves will now
be falling rapidly, and the wood should now be nearly ripe ; if this is not
the case, air the house freely in all fair weather, and where there are means
for heating, light fires may be kindled on cool nights. But in cold-houses
this cannot be done, and all depends upon giving air. Dispense with all
watering, and pick off the leaves as fast as tliey assume a yellow hue. Out-
door grapes may now be partially pruned, cutting away all wood which does
not now show signs of ripening. The tender sorts should tlien be covered
up witli straw, manure, or soil. Vines in pots should be protected in frames.

Gooseberry and Currant Bushes may now be set out, and if the
work is well done, they will produce some fruit next year.

Raspberry Plantations may now be made. As soon as cold weather
approaches, both new and old beds should be protected by covering the
canes with eartli or manure.

Fruit Trees, of all sorts, may now be transplanted with much better
success than in spring ; there is now more time to attend to it and do tlie
work thoroughly. It is an operation which will not bear shamming. Now
is a good time to clean the bark, and wash with whale oil soap.

GuAVAS, now ripening their crop, should be sparingly watered.

Canker Worm Grubs Avill now begin to ascend the trees, and care
should be taken to prevent it by tarring around tlie trees. This, if thor-
oughly done, will entrap every insect.

FLOWER department.

Camellias, now removed to the house, Avill begin to bloom. If it is de-
sirable to have them appear to the best advantage, all the leaves should be
carefully washed ; the foliage will then look green, glossy, healthy and rich,
setting off the colors of the flowers to better advantage. Cuttings may now
be put in.

Chrysanthemums, now coming into bloom, should be watered witli liquid
guano.

Dahlias should now be taken up and placed in the cellar, out of the
reach of frost.

Verbenas may still be propagated from cuttings and layers.

Japan Lilies should be planted in the open ground this month ; they are
perfectly hardy. Those in pots should be kept in a cool situation.

Tulips, Hyacinths, Narcissus, and otlier hardy spring bulbs, should
now be planted.

Carnations for winter blooming, should now bo repotted ; choice kinds
to be wintered in frames, should be protected with leaves and boards or
sashes, to keep off heavy rains.

528 Horiictdhiral Operations for November.

Pansy Seeds may be now sown in boxes in a frame, for spring stock.

Rocket Lark^spur Seed may now be sown in tlie open ground, for
early bloon^^ing in spring.

ScHiZA.NTHUSES will now require another potting.

Cir^ERARiAS should now be repotted.

TROPaiOLCM LoBBiANUM should now be put into tire pot in which it is
to bloom.

Double Feathkreews should now be taken iip and potted, for winter
blooming.

OxALiSES AND SpARAXis may yet be potted.

Gladioluses, Tiger Flowers, and other tender bulbs, should be taken
up before severe frosts.
. Roses, of tender kinds, should all be taken up tliis month ; Perpetuals and
Bourbons, in the open ground, if in a well-drained situation, Avith a little
covering, will stand the winter without injury.

Chinese Primroses should now be repotted, if they require it.

Ericas may be propagated now with success.

Cactuses should now be sparingly watered, except Epiphyllum tranca-
tum and its varieties.

Pelargoniums, from late cuttings, should now be shifted into 4 inch pots,
keeping them as cool as possible.

Fine Petunias should be propagated from cuttings.

Sweet Alyssuji, in pots, may have a shift into a larger size.

Nemophilas should have a shift into the next sized pots.

Mignonette in pots, should be rather sparingly watered at this season.

Perennial Plants may yet be successfully reset.

Torenia Asiatica should be kept in a warm part of the greenhouse.

Peonies may still be removed with safety.

Daisies should be protected in frames.

Auriculas and Polyanthuses may &lso be protected in frames.

Heliotropes should now be repotted, if they require it.

Abutilons taken up from the ground and placed in boxes, in a cellar,
and set out again in the spring, will make very showy ornaments all the
season.

Calceolarias will now need a shift, if the pots are full of roots.

Hydrangeas should be wintered in frames, or in the cellar.

Callas may now have larger pots, if they require it.

Acacias, now coming into bloom, may be occasionally \*^atered with
guano.

Half Hardy shrubs or plants, should now be protected from frost, by
coverings of straw or tliatch. Magnolias, camellias, some sorts of spirisas,
roses, &c., will require it, as well as some of tlie new pines, until they get
well established.

Greenhouse PlapTts, of all sorts, will require attention, — such as
pruning, tieing up, top dressing, &c.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

HORTICULTURE,

DECEMBER, 1850.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. Some Account of the Production of the Old Colony
Siceet Conij its Culture, 6fc. By Rev. A. R. Pope,
Somerville.

Mr. Editor, — I cheerfully comply with your request for
the details of the culture of the Old Colony Sweet Corn,
which commanded the favorable notice of the Horticultural
Society's Committee at the Annual Exhibition.

It is a hybrid, as any one can readily perceive by inspec-
tion, from the Southern White, and the common Sweet corn
of New England ; and exhibits certain characteristics of the
two varieties, combining the size of the ear and kernel, and
productiveness of the southern, with the sweetness and
tenderness of the northern parent ; — a southern head, rara
avis, with northern principles ! Indeed, nature seems to
have rewarded the effort to improve her productions, by
giving more than an even share of the desirable qualities
for table use.

The process by which it was attained will date as far
back as 1845, when a single kernel, which escaped the
denizens of the barn-yard, was carried with the compost to
my garden in Kingston, (Old Colony,) and springing up,
was permitted, for the novelty, to develop its nature in a
huge stalk, bearing upon it, more or less matured, five ears
of corn, one of the ears having eighteen rows !

The productiveness, combined with the extraordinary size

VOL. XVI. NO. XII. 67

530 Old Colony Sioeet Corn, its Cullui^e, S^c.

of the ear and kernel, suggested the plan of seeding the cob,
when better acclimated, with Sweet corn. A few hills,
planted in 1846, ripened their ears well, and sufficiently
early to settle the question of acclimation.

In 1847, a few hills were again planted in a favorable
place ; and at the proper time, before the anthers had burst,
the stamens, or spindles, were carefully removed. As soon
as the pistils, or silk, seemed in a mature state, the opening
stamens of Sweet corn stalks were carefully brought, and
the pollen from them gently shaken upon the pistils. The
result was successful so far as the experiment was carefully
pursued. At the time of harvesting, more than one half of
the kernels bore all the ordinary outward appearances of
Sweet corn, and had the sweetness peculiar to that variety,
but taking the shape and size natural to the cob on which
they were grown.

It then remained, as you will perceive, to ascertain by
experiment whether a hybrid or a mule had been produced ;
or, whether the new kernels were capable of reproducing
themselves in color and taste, and yet retain for the new
plants the advantages of a combination of the specific traits
of the female parent, or would rim back, as accidental mix-
tures often do, to one or the other of the originals. In 1848,
twenty-five hills were planted of the Sweet corn kernels,
selected from three ears, and all seemingly perfectly alike.
Before midsummer it was apparent that stalks from the same
■ear, and in the same hill, were very different in character;
■6ome of them being inclined to run up to the great heighth
of the Southern White, and marked with all the distinctive
peculiarities of that variety, while others seemed to be
dwarfed, and quite inferior specimens of the other side of the
house. A few only, perhaps not more than four or five
stalks, were neither the one nor the other in size and appear-
ance, and upon these I fixed as probably truly hybridized.
The others were removed as soon as their characters seemed
settled, but not quite soon enough to prevent a partial seeding
of the remaining stalks by the Southern White, as was seen
in the autumn.

Old Colony Sweet Coi'n, its Culture, tSf'c. 531

In 1849, 1 had the satisfaction of partaking of an excellent
and new variety of Sweet corn, with sixteen and eighteen
rows upon an ear! and in the autumn, gathered for seed
several ears of similar size, without any indication upon
them of the traces of the Southern White, except in the
unusual size and number of the kernels. The specimens
which received this year the commendation of the Commit-
tee of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, were of the
second planting, (an uninvited horse having regaled himself
upon the first.) and contained each but fourteen rows. I
herewith send you a couple of specimens of sixteen each ;
and reserve some for myself of even larger pretensions, one
of which measures eight inches and one eighth in circum-
ference, and contains twenty rows.

The quality may be satisfactorily tested in the matured
state ; and will not be found in sweetness inferior to any, I
think. The stalks, as you had the opportunity of seeing,
were very large, averaging from ten to twelve feet inheighth,
of corresponding circumference. They are also furnished
with brace roots, (never, I believe, found upon Sweet corn,)
and the pistils are invariably green, and not pink, as in the
Southern White. Its size seems to require a long season,
which will make it late ; but I have given it no fair trial as
to earliness. In productiveness, it will defy all table-corn
with which I am acquainted ; and had the season permitted,
I would have shown you a single stalk, planted after the
middle of June, having upon it six ears, in various stages of
growth ; but the frost came too soon, my garden having
been touched by the earliest. Its heighth, and the weight
of the ears, which were not formed this year at less than
four or five feet from the ground, — a circumstance of some
importance to those who, for neighborly regard, unhappily
keep fowls which they happily do not oion, — indicate the
effect of high winds in exposed situations unless properly
hilled.

I have made this communication unwittingly long, but
you must employ your editorial scissors at will. The pro-
duction may be entitled to some more notice as being one of

532 Old Colony Sweet Corn, its Culture, 8fc.

the very few cases of artificial hybridization in this country,
your own strawberry, so very strangely overlooked (?) by
the Editor of the Horticulturist, (Vol. IV, p. 500,) being one
of the earliest, while its success is surely quite encouraging.
Somerville, October 25, 1850.

We are highly pleased to give so full an account of the
production of Mr. Pope's Hybrid Corn. By his invitation
we visited his garden in Somerville last August, and we
were surprised at the growth of the stalks, and the forward-
ness of the ears. We had supposed, from its parentage, and
from the immense size of the ears, that it would be too late
for general cultivation. An inspection of it at once con-
vinced us we were in error. Notwithstanding the season
has been more than usually cold and backward, his situation
a bleak one, and the planting late, nearly all the ears have
arrived at their full growth and maturity, though many of
them contain eighteen and twenty rows each.

It is gratifying to find such an evidence of interest in the
improvement of our culinary vegetables as that of the pro-
duction of this new variety of Sweet corn affords ; but it
shows how much may be achieved by perseverance and
attention. Few persons would have supposed it worth
while to spend time to try to acclimatize the Southern corn,
and fewer would have conceived the idea, by cross breeding,
of making it an edible vegetable — that is, in its unripe state.
Yet we see what good results have been obtained, simply by
a little forethought, combined with a knowledge of the great
effects of hybridization.

Mr. Pope thinks strangely that the Editor of the Horti'
culturist should overlook our Seedling strawberry, when he
states that "he does not know of a single fruit that has been
originated directly by cross impregnation in the United
States, saving Dr. Brinckle's raspberries and strawberries."
There is nothing strange in this : on the contrary it Avould
have been strange to have seen him show sufiicient candor
to give any credit where it belongs.

We are glad to state that Mr. Pope is raising a quantity

How to Grow Good Asparagus. 633

of his Old Colony Sweet Corn, so that it may soon get

introduced into our gardens, and find a place upon our
tables. — Ed.

Art. IL How to grow good Asparagus. By Dr. Lindlet.
From the Gardeners' Chronicle.

In these days, when quacks endeavor to cram their nostrums
down simple people's throats, and persuade John Bull that
their conundrums are the only things under heaven by
which a gardener may hope to prosper, there is some danger
that the real principles of horticulture may be lost sight of,
and that the simple rules of science and good sense may be
abandoned, for a foolish belief in the potency of tiles, and
pipes, and pots, and pans, and other trumpery. It is there-
fore time to declare that good gardening wants no such aids ;
that the simplest means are those which, in skilful hands,
lead to the best results, and that he is the best gardener who
produces the greatest profit at the smallest cost.

When the great engineer, with some tackle and a few
score laborers, lifted the vast tube of the Menai bridge, he
did no more perhaps than a Pharaoh could have accomplish-
ed by the united force of 10,000 slaves. But in the one
case we had science, skill, and economy ; in the other, brute
force and barbarian profusion. Will any one venture to
place the despot on a level with the philosopher ? In like
manner when a gardener with a clear head, skill, and a
glazed box, produces crops that are at the least equal to those
obtained in costly hothouses with all the appliances of wealth
and material, we must take care not to elevate the owner of
the latter, even though he wear a smart coat, and clean linen,
to a level with the former, ragged and poor as his apparel
may be, and seldom as his wages go to the payment of a
washer- woman. The first is the great gardener ; the other
is infinitely his inferior as such, even though he should have
a handle to his name.

If any one wishes to apply these observations he will do

534 How to Grow Good Asparagus.

well to read "Cuthill's Practical Instructions,"* for then he
will find what simple means are needed to bring about the
most perfect results in the branch of gardening to which
they refer. We are too little in the habit of meeting with
gardening advice to which no exception can be fairly taken,
either theoretically or practically, not to draw attention par-
ticularly to this little book, in which the reader will find the
results of a good cultivator's experience told without hum-
bug and coxcombry. The author is a market-gardener ; he
gets his living out of a small piece of ground at Camber-
well ; his interest impels him in every way to observe the
utmost possible economy consistent with profit ; he there-
fore eschews all fiddle-faddle schemes for dandifying a kitch-
en garden ; and he tells his readers honestly and fully what
he does and how he does it. The goodness of his advice
concerning the Potato is attested by the fact that he is not
among the serious sufferers by disease.

As it is probable that no crop is worse grown or worse
managed as a whole, than Asparagus, we shall select some
of Mr. Cuthill's remarks upon that root, in illustration of the
foregoing observations. The following is his description of
the London market garden method: — "The present plan of
making Asparagus beds round London, consists in putting on
an immense quantity of vianure, and trenching the ground
three or four feet deep, mixing the manure as the work pro-
ceeds. In March the ground is measured out after the fol-
lowing manner ; suppose that a fence runs south and north,
or otherwise, three feet is allowed between it and the first
row ; a drill is drawn about two inches deep, the seed sown
thinly, say six inches or a foot apart, that gives choice of
drawing out the weakest, in order that the permanent crop
may stand one foot apart. The next row is sown eighteen

* " Practical Instructions for the Cultivation of the Potato," containing a Competition
Essay for the prize of 1000 francs offered by the Belgian Government. Also instruc-
tions on the management of Asparagus, Seakale, Rhubarb, Vegetable Marrow, Scarlet
Runner, Strawberry, Melon, Cucumber ; the Tomato, or Love-apple ; Chicory and
Lamb Lettuce as salads ; the Lisianthus Russellianus ; the tree Mignonette. The
destruction of woodliee and green-fly j and peat charcoal as a manure. By James
Cuthill, Horticulturist, Camberwell.

How to Grow Good Asparagus. 535

inches from the one just mentioned ; then, for the alley and
two sides of the bed, five feet are allowed ; then another
row of seeds, and so on, that gives two rows to each bed.
The first year Onions are generally sown all over the ground ;
the second year. Lettuce, or any dwarf-growing vegetable
that will not choke the Asparagus, and so on ; until the third
year, when the beds are formed out, and a few inches of
mould dug out of the alley, and put on the crowns ; but
only a few of the finest heads are cut this year. Autumn
arrives, and when the haulm is cut, the Avhole of the ground
is forked over, and planted with cabbage, coleAvorts, or win-
ter greens ; then in spring the beds are largely supplied with
mould out of the alleys, covering the crowns from eight to
ten inches deep. The finishing of the cuttitig must be left
to the grower. A fair crop of heads must be left after four
or five weeks' cutting, in order, in some measure, to strength-
en the young buds for the next year's crop, and to restore to
the roots what has been taken from them in the shape of a
crop ; but not one head must he allowed to grow until you
leave off cutting entirely at the end of the fourth year, (?)
When the haulm gets ripe, it is all cut down, and the mould
thrown into the alleys, and there enriched, and the whole of
the beds and alleys are planted again with cauliflowers, &c."

By this method the ground is economised with much skill,
no doubt: and never allowed to be at rest ; but the practice
is in this defective, that the beds are dry when they should
be moist, and that the Asparagus has to force its way up-
wards through a solid mass of resisting matter, which hardens
the shoots by the resistance it offers to their progress, and
renders t?iem tasteless, by depriving them of light, exxept at
the tip. which the Londoner nibbles with so much satisfac-
tion. Mr. CuthilPs plan is this :

"I propose that each row be planted tlu'ce feet distant from
the other, and that each plant stand one foot apart in the
row. This will give ample room for cleaning the crop, and
for drawing up earth over the crowns, so as to form a ridge
three or four inches deep, to be lowered again for the purpose
of enriching the soil in the autumn and winter. By this

536 HoxD to Grow Good Asparagus.

method I consider that Asparagus might be cut at least ten
days earlier than it is by the plan now practised, of burying
the roots deep in a bed of earth, where sun and air cannot
act upon them ; and, as for flavor, it has long been proved
that, although gentlemen's gardeners do not grow Asparagus
so large as the market gardener, of the two, it is by far the
finest in flavor with at least three times more eatable matter
in each head, though only two-thirds the length. I have
had Asparagus sent to me from Brussels, all blanched to-
gether, a beautiful creamy white, but, when cooked, I could
not discover the taste of Asparagus in it. It was watery and
insipid, as highly blanched Asparagus must always be, hav-
ing only the watery flavor of the roots. I have proved this
years ago, by keeping it in frames shut up, and the glass
covered over with mats to exclude light." "As soon as the
dead haulm is cut down in autumn, I give the beds a good
rich dressing of rich manure for the winter, salting them in
spring, and covering the manure with mould, to prevent
evaporation. The rain carries down the strength of the
winter covering to the roots ; and, when spring arrives, it
might be raked off into the alleys, leaving only mould
enough on the beds to protect the roots from the summer
sun. We have then Asparagus, green, and eatable almost to
the very root,"

In the preceding quotations the italics are our own. It
will probably be urged that this advice is nothing new. We
believe that to be so. But what the reader of gardening
works wants is not novelty, but instructions as to how he is
to find his way through the farrago of interested and disin-
terested recommendations by which he is surrounded. It is
of no consequence to nine men in ten how many ways there
may be of doing a thing ; what they want to know is the
best way ; or, if there is some difference of opinion as to
that, which way is certainly an excellent one. How seldom
they are told this by persons they can trust, their own expe-
rience will show them. It is as a most useful help, as far as
it goes, to those who most require help, that we have given
this prominent place to a notice of " Cuthill's Practical In-
structions."

How to Grow Good Asparagus. 637

It is unnecessary for lis to comment upon this article, so
far as regards the growth of asparagus, according to the plan
of Mr. Cuthill. We are as firm a disbeliever in " quacks,^'
or in " gardening nostrums," and " all fiddle-faddle schemes,"
for arriving at perfection in horticulture, as Dr. Lindley. We
have so expressed ourselves, and shall take another opportu-
nity to review at length the whole subject. John Bull is
not the only person who is bored with " conundrums," which
are thought by the perpetrators of them to be the only things
by which a gardener may prosper. Brother Jonathan is even
more to be pitied than John Bull, for John has an abundance
of real knowledge, even among the " farrago of interested
and disinterested recommendations by which he is surround-
ed." But with Jonathan to be set on the wrong track before
he knows the right, will only make him ten thousand times
worse off than Johnny.

Dr. Lindley himself is not without his crotchets : witness
his advocacy of Polmaise heating, even after it was aban-
doned by nearly every one of its early advocates. Witness
also the peculiarly scientific character of his earlier works
on scientific Botany, almost unreadable to any but the
professed Botanist, whose descriptions of plants were as
far from popular as they could well be. Yet now we see
him advocating reform in nomenclature, with a desire to do
away, as far as possible, with all superfluous technical lan-
guage.

Upon the subject of horticultural quackery we think he-
is about correct. Occupying the situation he does under
the Horticultural Society, and as editor of the Chronicley
he has so many opportunities to see through the shallow-
ness of garden pretenders, whose whole knowledge is de-
rived from superficial reading, that he could not omit a.
fitting opportunity to give utterance to his views. — Ed.]

VOL. XVI. NO. XII. 68

538 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Cherries.

Art. III. Descriptions and Engravings of Select Varieties
of Cherries. By the Editor.

We continue our descriptions and engravings of cherries,
and are glad to have the opportunity of describing three
varieties, as yet but little known, but which are very desira-
ble sorts, more particularly the New Black Bigarreau.

10. New Large Black Bigarreau.

The New Large Black Bigarreau (fg. 36) is the name
under which one of the finest varieties of cherries in cultiva-
tion has been known for nine or ten years in the vicinity of
Boston. The first specimens of fruit were
exhibited before the Massachusetts Horti-
cultural Society, in 1841, by Mr. George
Walsh, of Charlestown, and were award-
ed the first premium. These were noticed
by us, at that time, (Yol. VII, p. 316,) and
also subsequently, (Vol. VIII, p. 251,)
when we supposed it would prove to be
the Black Bigarreau of Savoy. Having
had the latter sort in bearing the past sea-
son, we have ascertained that they are
very distinct cherries ; and we now em-
brace an early opportunity to give a de-
scription of a variety so truly valuable, and
as vet so very little known.

Fiff. 3G. New Lars:e ^ •'

Black Bigarreau. The origmal trcc of the New Large
Black Bigarreau was brought from the south of France, some
fifteen or twenty years ago, by the father of Mr. Walsh, and
first came into bearing about 1840. The specimens were so
fine that he was induced to exhibit them. They attracted
much attention, and were pronounced fully equal, if not
superior, to the Black Tartarian, to which variety the fruit
bears a strong resemblance in size, shape and color.

Subsequent trials have confirmed the good opinion at first
entertained in regard to it, and Mr. Walsh has been several
times awarded the first premium. It proves to be a very

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Cherries. 539

handsome, upright and vigorous grower, a most abundant
bearer, and every way worthy of being placed among the
best cherries yet introduced.

Size, large, about one inch in diameter and one inch long :
Form, heart-shaped, regular, broadest at the base : Skin,
rich shining black, when fully mature : Stem, medium length,
about one and a half inches long, moderately stout, and in-
serted in a rather broad open basin : Flesh, dark purplish
red, firm but tender, rich, sprightly and delicious : Stone,
rather large, nearly round. Ripe from the first to the middle
of July.

11. Black Bigarreau of Savoy.

The Black Bigarreau of Savoy, (Jig. 37,) was introduced
into American collections by the late Mr. George Brown, of
Beverly. He purchased the tree from the nursery of M. M.
Burdin, Magg &> Co., of Milan, in
whose Catalogue for 1840 it is enu-
merated under the name of " Cerise Big-
arreau de Savoie, noir tres gros." It
is probably of Italian origin, and un-
known in English collections, as we do
not find the name in the last edition
of the London Horticultural Society's
Catalogue for 1842.

The tree is a remarkably vigorous
and rapid grower, of erect and fine
habit, with large, handsome leaves and
a good bearer. The fruit has a very
firm flesh, so much so that the robins
rarely touch it as long as any others
are to be found. It hangs well upon the tree, and is not
easily injured by heavy rains. In this respect it somewhat
resembles the Gridley or Apple cherry, a native variety of
considerable merit.

We have stated that Mr. Walsh's New Black Bigarreau
came from the south of France, and it was from the fact that
Mr. Brown's tree came from Italy that we supposed they

37. Black Bigarreau
of Savoy.

540 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Cherries.

might prove synonymes, and hence we noticed the former
under the latter name, (Vol. VIII. p, 251.)

Size, large, nearly one inch long and one inch in diame-
ter : Form, oblong heart-shaped, tapering somewhat to the
apex, which is small, and has a distinctly depressed point :
Skin, dark purplish red, nearly black, of an opaque appear-
ance : Stem, medium length, about one and a quarter inches
long, moderately stout, and inserted in a large open cavity :
Flesh, purplish red, slightly adhering to the stone, very firm,
sweet and good : Stone, medium size, oval. Ripe from the
first to the middle of July.

12. Belle of Orleans. '

Our first knowledge of the Belle of Orleans {fig. 38,) was
from some excellent specimens exhibited before the Massa-
chusetts Horticultural Society last year by Col. Wilder.
The tree had been imported from France
and had just begun to bear. This year it
produced a better crop of much better
specimens, and these proved so excellent,
upon trial, that we can recommend it as a
new and very fine cherry. It comes in
early, soon after the May Bigarreau, and
from its light yellow and somewhat trans-
parent skin, makes a fine appearance.

Size, medium, about three quarters of
an inch long, and the same in diameter :
Form, roundish heart-shaped, broad at the
base, and obtuse at the apex, which is
slightly oblique, with an indented point;
suture distinct on one side : Skin, clear
pale amber, shaded with light red, occa-
sionally little mottled : Stem, medium length, about one and
a half inches long, rather slender, and inserted in a rather
large, broad and moderately deep cavity : Flesh, pale amber,
soft, tender, sweet and pleasantly flavored : Stone, rather
large, roundish obovate. Ripe from the middle to the end
of June.

Fig. 38. Belle of O.
leans.

Two New Varieties of Apples. 541

Art. IV. Some account of tioo new varieties of Apples, with
Engravings of the Fruit. By the Editor.

The Northern Sweet. — In the January number of our
present vokime, (page 36,) we gave a brief notice of the
Northern Sweet apple, and were only prevented from adding
a full description at that time, by the loss of our specimens,
which were kindly given to us by our correspondent, Mr. J.
Battey, of KeeseviUe, N. Y., who exhibited a quantity of the
fruit at the Pomological Congress last year.

Mr. Battey, in order to place it in our power to give a
description of it, has sent us some excellent specimens, not
quite so large as those last year, but fully up to the average
size of the variety. We copy his remarks : —

The Northern Sweet apples are rather poor specimens, and
I would not send them did I not feel a kind of necessity
from the circumstances of last year. I have but three trees
in bearing of this variety. Two of them are near a public
road, and to save a tithe of the fruit I had to pick them
while yet green. The other tree is an old one, in a very
bad situation, the fruit from which (it bears three other
sorts) is of only moderate size.

I have had occasion to exhibit specimens of this variety
at five or six fairs and conventions this fall, and, in all cases,
have been pretty hardly drawn upon by my pomological
friends for " specimens to take home." Under all these cir-
cumstances, thee will readily perceive that I could not do
justice by the variety in sending this lot of specimens.

I have been at some pains, by a careful examination of
large numbers of specimens when gathering them, to select
a fair average fruit, both in respect to size and shape, for the
purpose of getting a true average outline of the variety, a
copy of which is herewith sent. This fine variety is all
which it has been represented ; there is certainly no other
sweet apple of its season, which approaches it in value, and
it cannot be beat by any sweet apple of any season. — Yours,
J. Battey, KeeseviUe, N. Y., October 23, 1850.

542 Two New Varieties of Apples.

Our description of the Northern Sweet, {Jig. 39,) is as
follows : —

Size, large, about three inches broad, and two and a half

Fig. 39. The Northern Sweet.

deep : Form, roundish, largest in the middle, narrowing
most towards the crown : Skin, fair, smooth, bright golden
yellow, broadly suffused with clear brilliant red on the
sunny side, and dotted with a few russet specks : Stem, me-
dium length, about three quarters of an inch long, rather
slender, curved, and deeply inserted in a regular cavity :
Eye, medium size, partially closed, and rather deeply sunk
in a broad, open, and somewhat furrowed basin ; segments
of the calyx broad, woolly : Flesh, white, fine, crisp and
very tender : Juice, abundant, sweet, rich and well flavored :
Core, small : Seeds, medium size. Ripe in October and
November.

Bailey Spice. — This is the name of a new variety, or
rather one recently introduced to notice, of which a descrip-
tion and outline {Jig. 40,) have been sent us by Mr. J. W.
Bailey, of Plattsburg, N. Y., whose communication we an-
nex : —

Two New Varieties of Apples. 543

Herewith attached is an outline and description of the
Bailey Spice apple, which I consider a dessert fruit of great
value. I refer you to the journal of the New York State

Fig. 40. Bailerj Spice.

Agricultural Society of the present month, and the report of
the Fruit Congress last fall, for its merit. The original tree
is growing in my orchard, and was planted over fifty years
ago by my grandfather, Capt. Nathaniel Piatt. It is a great
bearer, and I know of no fruit so invariably fair and perfect.
/ am, sir, very respectfully yours, John W. Bailey, Octo-
ber 26, 1850.

Size, medium, being usually two and fix^e eighths inches
broad by two and one quarter inches depth : Form, round,
oval, tapering a little toward the eye : Exterior color, light
yellow, sometimes with a faint blush, always fair : Texture,
fine grained, tender as well as firm, juicy: Color of flesh,
yellowish, with a slight greenish tint: Flavor, subacid,
sprightly and spicy : Core, large and open : Seeds, plump
and light brown : Stem, one and a quarter inches long, slen-

544 Pomological Gossip.

der, set in rather a deep cavity : Eye, closed, set in a narrow
cavity of medium depth : Season, from 20th September to
20th October : Growth, moderately vigorous, the wood
smooth, young shoots reddish brown, downy, foliage light.

Art. V. Pomological Gossip.

The Wallworth Apple. This is the name given to a
variety forwarded to us by Mr. J. Battey, of Keeseville, with
an outline of the fruit, and some account of its history. Mr.
Battey says that " it is a variety which has recently come to
notice here, and which I propose to call the Wallworth ; the
specimen sent is under size, and quite over ripe, and I do not
send it as a sample of the fruit, but to draw attention to it,
preparatory to a better acquaintance with it another season,
when I will send you good specimens, if procurable. I con-
sider it fully entitled to a place in a very select list. Enclosed
are two outlines, accurately taken from specimens furnished
me by Mr. Wallworth, of Plattsburg, in whose garden stands
the only tree of this variety I know of It is not a seedling
here, but was introduced from Rensselaer County, N. Y.,
where it was called the Large Golden Pippin. It is reported
to have been introduced from New Jersey."

We do not append the figure, as, from the uncertainty of
its origin, it may prove to be some already described kind.
Subsequently to receiving the above notice, Avith a single
specimen of the apple, which Mr. Battey alludes to, we re-
ceived the full description of the Bailey Spice ; and, on com-
paring our outline, as well as our description, with his, we
found them to agree so clearly m all respects, that we came
to the conclusion they must be one and the same fruit. Both
came from the same town, and both have been growing there
some time — the Bailey Spice more than fifty years.

We annex our description in the same form as Mr. Bailey's,
for comparison :-—

Pomological Gossip. 546

Size, medium, about two and three-quarters inches broad,
and two and a half deep : Form, roundish conical, narrowing
to the crown, which is small : Extei^nal color, light yellow,
shaded with blush on the sunny side, very smooth and fair :
Texture, fine grained, crisp, and tender : Color of flesh, white :
Flavor, subacid, sprightly, and rich : Core, medium size,
rather open : Seeds, medium size : Stem, long, about one
inch, slender, and moderately inserted in a small, contracted
cavity : Eye, small, closed, and moderately depressed in a
small, regularly furrowed basin. Ripe in September and
October.

The Wallworth we consider a fine apple, and it is unlike
any variety we are acquainted with. If, another year, when
we can have specimens of the Bailey Spice and the Wallworth
to compare, the latter should prove distinct, we shall give
our outline of the fruit.

Platt's Seedling' Pear. We are indebted to Mr. Battey
for specimens of a new pear, which is called the Piatt's Seed-
ling. The pears grew upon a tree (which is a sucker from
the original) in the orchard of Mr. Piatt, of Plattsburgh, The
parent tree is still standing in Beekmanstown, where it origi-
nated, on the farm of one of the early settlers, who raised it
from seed brought from Long Island. The fruit is of large
size, yellow when ripe, always fair, and never rots at the core :
the tree is a vigorous grower, and an abundant bearer. Mr.
Battey remarks " that if it only was a little higher flavored, it
might rank nearly first-rate." The specimens, Avhen we re-
ceived them, were a little over ripe, and were allowed to hang
too long upon the tree before being gathered ; but we thought
it a very good pear, and worthy of cultivation. Its season
of maturity is October and November.

NouvEAU PoiTEAu Pear. This new variety has fruited
this year in two or three collections around Boston, and speci-
mens were exhibited at the Annual Exhibition of the Massa-
chusetts Horticultural Society, in September. Our corre-
spondent, the Hon. Mr. Cabot, of Salem, has since then
exhibited some ripe specimens, which were tried by the fruit
committee, who report that it proves to be a very fine pear.

VOL. XVI. NO. XII. 69

546 Pomological Gossip.

Mr. Cabot also favored us with a handsome fruit, of which
we shall give an outline and a descriptive account in our
next volume.

The Diana Grape. Mr. Longworth, of Cincinnati, is so
fearful somebody will pay fifteen dollars for a vine of the
Diana, that he deems it important that its quality " should be
made known as speedily as possible, to save our fruit growers
time and expense." Has our old friend forgotten how the
Boston pomologists were humbugged by the celebrated
" Longworth's Ohio, or Cigar Box Grape" ? for which they
paid five dollars apiece for vines sent by Mr. Longworth, and
which proved to be more worthless than the fox grape of our
woods ; so worthless, indeed, that we do not believe, out of two
hundred vines sent east ($1000 worth) there is one now left.
Mr. Longworth says that " none of our fine native grapes will
succeed in New England." This is true to a certain extent,
though the Isabella does well in four seasons out of five.
But Mr. Longworth knows nothing about the Diana. It is
for the very reason that it will succeed in New England, that
it is prized so high. It not only is so early as to be certain
to ripen its crop here, in all seasons, early or late, but it sur-
passes the Catawba, or any other American grape, in flavor.
We first described it in our Magazine, and have been ac-
quainted with the variety for eight years ; and we hesitate
not to pronounce it preferable to the Red Chasselas, the Espe-
rione. Miller's Burgundy, and several of the French grapes.
And so far as its value not being worth fifteen dollars — why,
rather than not have it in a collection, we would give double
that. But it is not in this view, we presume, that the gen-
tleman thought of paying that sum, but probably for com-
mercial purposes ; and every cultivator knows that, though a
single plant or fruit of any kind may not be intrinsically
worth fifteen dollars, yet for the purposes of propagation it
may be worth five hundred dollars. Twenty-four plants of
the Stanwick Nectarine brought at auction, in London, one
hundred and sixty-four pounds sterling — about eight hundred
dollars. Now, if the Stanwick nectarine is worth, for gen-
eral purposes of cultivation, eight hundred dollars, we venture

Porno logical Gossip. 547

to assert that the same number of plants of the Diana grape is
worth double that sum ; because but few persons can succeed
with the nectarine, while every individual who possesses a
rod of ground can grow this grape in perfection. The Diana
is too well known, already, to require any further praise from
us. We only make these remarks to correct such an egre-
gious error in regard to the commercial vahie of any new or
rare plant or fruit, as that made by Mr. Longworth.

A notice of several varieties of grapes, sent by Mr, Long-
worth to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, will be
found in our report of the meetings.

Purple Fontainbleau Grape. We find the following
account of this grape in the Gardener^s Chro?iicle, in a no-
tice of Mr. Rivers' Nursery, Sawbridge worth. Mr. Rivers
was trying it as a pillar grape. It grows freely in the open
air, and bears abundantly ; the specimen in question had
about fifty large bunches on it, which no doubt would have
ripened, had they had the assistance of a wall. Its fruit is
said to ripen before that of the Burgundy. A few examples
of this grape have been sold as the Muscat of Fontainbleau.

The Stanwick Nectarine. It may be a fact worthy of
note to our nurserymen who may purchase the Stanwick
Nectarine, that it is somewhat fastidious as regards the kind
of stock suited to its growth. Mr. Rivers, who has had
charge of the sole stock for sale, states that it will not grow
on the Muscle — the kind usually made use of for nectarines.
It will grow on the Damas Noir. It may be well to bud it at
first upon the peach, until that kind of plum stock is found
upon which it will take freely. By adopting this plan, there
will be no danger of losing the first buds, which will be
more valuable than when the variety becomes common.

New Seedling Pear. Mr. Dana, of Roxbury, recently
exhibited another of his seedling pears, which he has named
Martha Ann. In appearance it is like the Dix, and promises
to be a fine variety. Another year's trial will enable us to
judge better of its merits.

>48 How lo raise Isabella Grapes.

Art. VI. How to Raise Isabella Grapes. From the Maine

Farmer.

A MORE plain, practical and common sense article than the
following, we do not often meet with. Under the initials
of A. J., Jr., we recognize an old correspondent of our pages,
and we hope we give no offence to the author, whose mod-
esty will not allow him to write out his name in full, in
telling our readers they are indebted to Mr. A. Johnson, Jr.,
of . Wiscasset, Me., for this excellent paper. A notice of this
same Isabella vine will be found in our present volume, (p.
81,) by Mr. Johnson, where he stated the immense quantity
of fruit ha gathered from it last year. And we are now glad
to give the method by which he was enabled to reap such a
rich harvest.

Mr. Johnson's practice is another evidence of the value of
high feed, by which we are to understand, plenty of ma-
nure, or its equivalent, — not merely sulphur, ashes and lime,
— as has been strongly recommended, because sulphur has
been found in the wood and pulp, — but well decomposed
manure, and an abundance of soap suds, — the latter a valua-
able commodity in the culture of the grape, and always
within the means of every housekeeper. These, added to
a deeply trenched and prepared soil, have accomplished the
great result which Mr. Johnson now chronicles for the aid of
those who don't know how to have an abundance of ripe
grapes. — Ed.

Dear Sir, — I had neither the vanity or courage to oifer my
grapes and pears for exhibition to the Pomological Society,
or to invite their criticism upon my horticultural pastime, —
for pastime it has surely been to me, and nothing else, the
past season, — to watch the growth of my bantlings along,
and to entertain my friends and visitors with short conversa-
tional dissertations upon horticultural science, as I under-
stand it. My friends listen with wonderful patience. My
breath, without the example, might be thrown away, and

How to raise Isabella Grapes. 549

probably would be ; yet, both combined, through a very
little leaven, tne whole lump will be leavened. The many
strange faces I have seen, rambling about my very limited
premises, assure me that the public are not unmindful of my
doings ; and the evident interest in my success, exhibited
by all, has sufficiently repaid me all the expense, as well as
afforded me real and continual gratification during the whole
season. Nevertheless, I am not yet ready to enter the lists
of generous rivalry with my Kennebec friends, in the raising
of fruit. Many of them possess wealth, and all of them
soil, which I do not ; but energy and ingenuity have accom-
plished much in this world ; I do "never despair." In 1852,
if my usual robust health continues, I will appear to the
Society, with my samples of what can be done in this State
in the way of fruit raising. In the mean time I will jog on
at my usual pace, a brisk trot, and see if anything can be
grown another year^ worthy of sending to my yet unseen
friend, the editor of the " Farmer." But, lest too much
might be anticipated, I will merely say here, that the whole
extent of my far77i will not exceed a third of an acre. This
is small ; but it is fed, you may depend. At another time I
will say something about the soil and the rich profusion of
its products.

My object, at present, is to say something about grapes,
and more particularly I design to speak of the Isabella grape ;
the soil it likes the best; the aspect; the pruning of the
vine ; the thinning of the fruit ; and the very great degree
of cold the grapes will bear in autumn, without the slightest
injury. I shall only speak of what I do know, and let theory
alone. As my large vine illustrates fully all I have to say
about it, I will describe that, premising, only, that they can
be grown in any other shape, though this is considered the
best.

In the autumn of 1845, I bought a variety of vines and
shrubs of Messrs. Hovey & Co., of Boston, and among
others, this "Isabella" vine. I paid one dollar for the vine.
It had three arms or branches starting from the very root,
each about as large as one's little finger ; the diameter of

550 How to raise Isabella Grapes.

the root was three fourths of an inch. It was every way a
thrifty, hearty, well-rooted vine, and worth the dollar.

After looking about sometime for a suitable place to set it,
I concluded to plant it against the south end of my house
and train it upright. The house is 38 by 20 feet and fronts
the east. The L joins the west side of the main house at
the westerly corner, jutting out southerly by the main build-
ing about six feet. The kilchen and wood-house juts out
southerly by this L in the same way, thus forming in the
space of sixty feet, two right angles or L's. My vines are
planted along on this southerly side of the buildings, the great
vine being against the centre of the end of the main house,
and one foot distant therefrom. The border made for this
vine is fifteen feet long by three feet wide and three feet deep.
All the old soil (heavy clay) was taken out, and the trench
filled with three cart-loads of pasture loam and turf, one load
of old cow manure, three barrels of unleached ashes, one bar-
rel of bones, broken up, and one load of very old spent tan,
which was spread over the top of all, after they were well
mingled together. In the bottom of the trench was placed
a layer of broken brick and small stones, eight inches thick.
The top of the border is about six inches above the level of
the adjacent ground. The vine was carefully set out on the
10th of November, every fibre properly extended ; the root
was well covered with coarse litter, and the three arms tied
together with woolen list, and sheathed lightly with long
straw, and then bound firmly to a strong stake.

The vine got through the winter well. It was uncovered
about the tenth of April, and the arms, which were three
feet each in length, were tied to separate stakes. The left
hand arm started well with two strong shoots from the top
end ; the middle arm the same, while the remaining arm
started rather feebly, with but one shoot. All these five
shoots grew until September, when they were all stopped by
pinching off the ends about six feet from the ground. In
November, (say the 10th,) the shoots were pruned of tendrils
and laterals, leaving nothing but the bare canes ; these were
soon tied together as before, laid horizontally about a foot

How to raise Isabella Grapes. 651

above the ground, and sheathed with a covering of long
straw, bound with list as before. A few green boughs were
thrown over them. In the spring, (of 1847,) they were
unbound as before, and tied up to long stakes. The middle
shoots started very vigorous. I allowed each one to " fork"
again, thus getting four strong canes from the one middle
shoot below. The left arm grew off as before with two
shoots only, and the right arm kept on with a single shoot
above. Thus I got seven upright canes, and the vine prop-
erly balanced; and it remains in this form now. Some
fruit appeared, which was promptly pinched off, and the
vine reached the height of ten feet, — all of good, strong
wood. All the laterals and tendrils Avere again pinched off
in November, the canes gathered together, sheathed with
straw and laid down as before. In April following, the cov-
ering was removed. In May, (about the 10th,) the canes
were fastened to an upright trellis, and the buds pushed
finely. June 1st, about one hundred bunches of grapes ap-
peared. All were removed but twenty-five ; these grew
finely as well as the vine. In September, say about the
20th, the canes were stopped about fifteen feet from the
ground. The fruit was prematurely gathered, September
25th, and although fine to appearance, it proved quite acid
and " foxy." I regretted very much my unseemly haste.
I found out, when too late, that not even a leaf of the vine
was nipped by the frost until October 20th. The canes
were pruned smooth, as before, sheathed and laid down,
November 20th. In the spring of 1849, (last year,) the
straw was taken off, April 10th. The vine was not put up
on the trellis until May 25th. I found the longer I could
keep it down, the better the eyes or buds would push on
the lower half oi the vine. Two hundred bunches of fruit
appeared in June. Twenty-five, only, were allowed to
grow. These ripened finely and were gathered October
15th. The vine was not suffered to grow in height, as I
designed to " spur prune" the canes in the fall. This I did,
(in November as usual,) cutting every lateral away, and
every little branch that had borne fruit was cut in the mid-

552 How to raise Isabella Gi'apes.

die of the third joint, thus leaving two good eyes, and a
third at the base, (of this little branch,) from which to rear
another bearing branch another year. Then the canes were
carefHlly gathered together and tied ; the whole was bent
round like a large wheel and done up in straw as usual ; a
mat thrown over it, (to keep off the sun, not the cold.) and
the whole rested against the house through the winter.
Last spring, (1850,) I unbound the straw and loosened the
canes in April, and put up the vine on the trellis. May 25th.
All the buds broke finely all the way to the ground. They
looked very fine.

A great abundance of fruit appeared in .Tune, more than
four hundred bunches. The poorest, and those on the back
side of the vine, were taken off; only two hundred and
twenty-five bunches remained to grow by the 10th of July.
To please some of my neighbors who seemed proud of my
vine, I spliced my trellis and pushed it up nine feet further
this year, — each cane having grown that much, to the very
top of the added trellis. Notwithstanding this great growth,
(63 feet,) the fruit ripened very well, and was gathered, Oc-
tober 8th, in fine condition, though not quite so large as it
was the last year.

This vine, with its splendid array of fruit, and its fine,
portly dimensions, has arrested the attention of every passer
by, the whole season. It covers a trellis eight feet wide by
twenty-four feet high, which stands eighteen inches from
the house, and is secured to the same with stout wire hooks
and stays. The blinds open freely behind this trellis, the
fruit appearing at the parlor windows in October, of rich
purple hue and in great profusion. I have enjoyed many a
taste of the grapes this fall as I rise in the morning, from
the chamber windows, which is certainly an unusual thing
for a " Down-Easter" to be doing.

I wished to ascertain to a certainty what amount of frost
this grape would bear without injury, and so I left about a
dozen bunches on the vine. October 28th, I took off six or
eight, and found them delicious, of excellent flavor, and far
superior to anything I ever saw in Boston market, for grapes

General Notices. 553

raised in the open air. There are still some branches hang-
ing there uninjured, although every leaf has fallen, and
water in a barrel has frozen four tenths of an inch thick.
My thermometer has, several times, stood at 22° this season
at sunrise, (or rather the mercury in it,) showing that a de-
gree of cold which will freeze the ground and common
vegetables, leaves the grape harmless. I never shall fear
again the frost, until every dahlia is gone, and the very
leaves of the vine which bears the grapes are nipped and
killed. October 20th is plenty soon enough to talk about
gathering grapes.

I shall prune this vine the middle of this week, 22d inst..
" spurring" it in my fashion, and leaving this year's growth
of cane smooth, as before. I had nearly forgotten to name
that every gill of soap suds made " washing day," goes to
the roots of my vines, " express." They are bountifully
supplied with water during the season. The well is close
by, and I own a syringe and small copper force pump, and I
don't forget to use them freely everywhere, on my premises.
The foliage and fruit are kept in much fairer condition by
frequent showering with a syringe ; besides, the moths and
insects are routed ; the^'' cannot stay where, once a week,
they are subject to a general deluge.

I have a variety of vines, of which I shall speak by and
by. In the mean time I will say, that every one in the
State can raise this fine fruit, if they can completely shelter
their vines from the northeast, north and northwest winds.
Begin right, and there is no " witch-work" about it. More
anon. A. J., Jr.

Wiscasset, November 18. 1850.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General JVotices.

Plums. — I have long been a cultivator of fruits, and have seen them in
many sites and soils, in every part of England, and in many on the con-
tinent, and I now feel more than ever the extreme caution required in pub-
VOL. XVI. NO. XTT. 70

554 General Notices.

lishing an opinion of the merits or demerits of any particular variety. Such
were my reflections on reading the article at p. 678, headed " Select Plums."
Your correspondent, " .T. B. W.," received fruit of the Reine Claude de
Bavay on the 10th inst., after a journey from France, and proceeds to give
his opinion of it. Now this is at least more than a fortniglit after its perfect
maturity here ; for in England, south of Trent, it ripens as nearly as possi-
ble, allowing for the variation of our seasons, from the middle to the end of
September ; and, when fully ripe and slightly shrivelled at the stalk, it is
brimfull of a rich, sugary, refreshing juice. In my opinion it is more grate-
ful to the palate than the Green Gage, Avhicli, when fully ripe, fatigues the
taste with its lusciousness. I ate some fruit of the Reine Claude de Bavay
from my tree, I think about the 15th inst. ; they had lost their juice and
were not good. The Queen Mother plum, as you well know, is a small
plum, good enough, but not worthy of much notice. Kirk's plum is really
good. The Precoce de Tours, one of our least hardy plums, I have some
pleasant recollections of; three very large standard trees, planted by my
great grandfather, used in my boyhood to bear once in four or five years a
tolerably good crop, worth gathering to send to market ; in other seasons
only a very thin sprinkling. In these seasons of scarcity we, the boys, had
the privilege of shaking the trees and appropriating the plums to ourselves.
What "jolly" seasons they were, and how often they came ? This plum is
indeed only fit for a wall. The Early Prolific, mentioned at p. 063, is a
seedling raised from it with smooth instead of downy shoots as that has,
and with blossoms so hardy as to withstand nine degrees of frost on the 3d
of last May, which killed everything besides, among fruit. The trees are
standards. Its fruit is perhaps a little longer than those of its parent ; it
is more juicy and brisk in flavor ; in shape and appearance mucli like it. It
is indeed a Precoce de Tours hardenized. 'Why should not we gardeners
make a word ? There is another seedling from the same parentage like
the above, now common in the nurseries ; for both have been in being nearly
20 years, called the Early Favorite. This has downy shoots, is a trifle ear-
lier, of higher flavor, but not so hardy. " J. B. W." should tell us where
he lives, and whether he cultivates the plums he mentions as standards, or
against walls, as such information satifies readers and prevents many inquir-
ies. Your correspondent has omitted to mention two very valuable and very
hardy late plums, Coe's Late Red, and St. IMartin's Quet^che, a yellow
plum of excellent quality and most profuse bearer, as a standard or pyra-
mid.—(Card Chron., 1850, p. 693.)

Peach Stocks. — About ten years ago I planted, by way of experiment,
a Grosse Mignonne peach in the middle of a sm.all pit, and trained it right
and left to a trellis a foot from the glass. As it increased in growth. I kept
giving it more room, and it progressed tolerably well, but I never felt satis-
fied with it. In one year, however, (1847,) I gathered eight dozen of fine
fruit from it, in July and August ; but, with that exception, it never pro-
duced more than a few dozen, until this year, when I had ten dozen well
set and stoned on it. In July, however, when the swelling process was
going on, it died just befoie the crop was ripe. The cause of deatli was

General Notices. 555

the stock bein^ one mass of gum and canker. I never perceived tlio stock
to be affected before this season. It was either a peach or nectarine stock,
as I ascertained by a sucker which sprang up from a surface root. Garden-
ers should beware of the kind of " stocks" such trees are " worked" on.
Why not bud them on the old Mussel plum, as formerly, which is clear and
bright as glass. In the " Theory of Horticulture," p. 239, you say, con-
cerning stocks, " It is sometimes desirable to increase the hardiness of a
variety, and grafting or budding appears to produce this effect to a certain
extent ; not, indeed, by the stock communicating to the scion any of its own
power of resisting cold, but by the stock being better suited to the soil of
latitudes colder than that from which the scion comes, and consequently
requiring a lower bottom-heat to arouse its excitability." Mr. Knight, in-
deed, denies this fact, because " the root which nature gives to each seed-
ling plant must be well, if not best, calculated to support it ;" and it is so
under the circumstances in which the species was first created, but without
this addition. The paragraph in inverted commas is specious only, not just.
Probably in Persia, the native country of the peach, that species, or its wild
type the almond, is the best stock for the former fruit, because the tempera-
ture of tlie eartli is that in which it was created to grow ; but in a climate
like that of England, the temperature of whose soil is much lower than that
of Persia, the plum on which the peach takes freely, is a " hardy native,
and suited to such soil, and its roots are aroused from their winter sleep by
an amount of warmth unsuited to the peach. And experience in tliis case
completely confirms what theory teaches ; for, although there may be a few
healthy trees in this country growing upon almond stocks, it is perfectly
certain that the greater part of those which have been planted have failed,
while in the warm soil of France and Italy, it is the stock on which most of
all the old trees have been budded." The above quotation is sufficient to
show what stock a gardener should prefer, and what a nurseryman should
reject.— (Garrf. Chron., 1850, p. 693.)

The Plum as a Pyramidal Tree. — For some iev/ years I have
amused myself by forming my plums trees into pyramids, feeling convinced
that no other mode of cultivating our hardy fruits is so eligible for small
gardens. I was induced to take extra pains, on account of observing that
our neighbors the French, so famous in their cultivation of pyramids, failed
to a certain extent with the plum ; as their trees, I obser\-ed, on being
pruned to that shape, made too vigorous shoots, and were inclined to gum.
They do not know the value of root-pruning and will not listen to it ; I do,
and therefore felt some hope of success. At first I commenced to root-
prune once in two or three years, but I soon found tliat was not enough, for
the plum makes roots so rapidly that it is difficult to check it ; I have now,
therefore, for the last three years root-pruned annually early in autumn. My
success is perfect ; tliis I have generally done in September soon after gath-
ering the fruit, but this year not having any fruit, and awakened by your
article on " Summer Root-Pruning," given in Gardeners' Chronicle in July,
I operated on them in August ; the trees almost immediately went to rest,
and are now pictures of forthcoming fruitfulncss. The operation is so sim-

556 General Notices.

pie, that any one may exercise it without any fear of failure. Lot me
attempt to describe it ; and yet how irksome it is to have to employ so many
words about what one can tell and do in a few minutes. Open a circular
trench, eighteen inches deep (for the plum does not root deeply) round
one tree eighteen inches from its stem ; for the first two or three years this
distance will be enough ; increase the diameter of the circle as years roll
on, but very slowly, not more than from one to two inches in a year, and cut
oif every root and fibre with a sharp knife. This operation may be likened
to the manner in which old folks talk of the way in which they used to cut
tlie hair of poor workhouse boys, viz., place a basin on tire boy's head and
trim off" the hair round its rim — in short, the " workhouse cut ;" then when
your roots are are so trimmed, introduce a spade under one side of the tree
and heave it over, so as not to leave a single tap root. Fill in the mould ; if
the weather is dry give the tree a soaking of water, and it is finished. If
your soil is poor, give a top-dressing of manure, to be washed in by winter
rains. The following summer pinch off the ends, in June, of any shoots
that seem inclined to push more than four inches, and tliin those out with
the knife that are too crowded ; the result will be a handsome and highly
prolific pyramidal tree. Plums are not yet half appreciated ; for, owing to
the introduction of many new and good varieties, they are in season from
.July till November, for the dessert and for the kitchen. — [Gard. Chron.,
1850, p. 694.)

Liquid Manure. — The plan suggested in your leading article of con-
densing the good properties of liquid manure by immersing bags full of
peat charcoal, would I am sure be ineffectual. Charcoal possesses two
properties, the first is the power of condensing great quantities of any gas,
as ammonia, which comes in contact with it — it is tliis which constitutes its
deodorising power. Charcoal has also the property of clarifying any liquor
passed through it. It readily parts with the gas it absorbs, — for instance if
it contam as much ammonia as it was capable of holding, and was in that
state immersed in water, the ammonia would be dissolved out. If therefore
liquid manure was passed through the charcoal, the ammonia it could con-
dense would only be the portion that was dissolved in the small quantity of
water retained in its pores. The liquid would be to some extent deprived
of its color by the removal of the coloring matter suspended, but not a frac-
tion of the really valuable soluble matter would be removed. By immersing
tlie charcoal, the only benefit would be the removal of that portion of the
liquid retained in its pores ; no difference would be made in what was lefl. —
[Gard. Chron., 1850, p. 699.)

Wintering the Carnation. — As winter Avill soon approach us, perhaps
tlie following plan of wintering the carnation may prove acceptable. My
frame stands on legs, and has a false bottom, eight inches from the ground,
well drilled with a one and a quarter inch auger. On this bottom I put a
layer of potsherds and brick rubbish, and on these my pots (48s each, con-
taining two plants) are placed. I then fill up to the runs with a compost of
three parts cinder ashes and one part saw-dust, with a small quantity of
powdered charcoal, all well mixed. In this mixture the plants may be

Foreign Notices. 557

watered witliout the least fear of injury from mildew, &,c., as tlic water
passes off freely, and no damp is! g-eneratcd in tlic frame from tlie eartl»
beneath. In this way I have grown carnations, &lc., for a number of years,
and have always had an extremely healthy stock. I have false bottoms in
my frames, because I use tliem for other purposes, such as working dahlias
and gro^^ ing cucumbers in, &-c. — [Jour, of Hort., 1850, p. GG9.)

Art. II. Foreign J\/otices.
ENGLAND.

Dahlias and Dahlia Exhibition of 1850. — We give our amateur
friends our annual summary of the e.xliibitions of the dahlia for tlie present
year. The rage for new and fine tlowers seems to be full as great as in
former years. Large quantities of seedlings are annually produced, and a
few choice and selected kinds, which have passed the ordeal of an exhibi-
tion before some of the prominent floricultural societies around London, are
added to the list. The best guide to a selection of new sorts is to be found
in a careful examination of tlie varieties which have been most prominent in
the stands which have obtained the premiums, and those fanciers who wish
to add to tlieir stock w ill see below which are the best winning flowers : —

Surrey Amateur Dahlia Show. — Best twelve blooms: Dr. Graham,
Purple Standard, Ricliard Cobden, Mrs. C. Bacon, Crocus, Batliania, Opti-
mus, Striped Essex Triumph, Scarlet Gem, Imbricata, Mr. Seldon and
Black Prince, — to Mr. Kirkpatrick.

North London Floricultural Society. — Best twelve blooms : Duke
of Cambridge, Richard Cobden, California, Thames Bank Hero, Duke of
Wellington, Snowflake, Black Prince, Grandis, Mr. Seldon, Louis Philippe,
Fearless, and Sir F. Batliurst, — to Mr. C. Turner.

Royal South London Floricultural Society. — Best twenty-four
blooms: Duke of Wellington, Purple Standard, Mr. Seldon, Queen of
Lilacs, Thames Bank Hero, General Negrier, Mrs. C. Bacon, Imbricata,
Lady St. Maur, Standard of Perfection, Yellow Standard, Richard Cobden,
Fearless, War Eagle, Essex Triumph, Scarlet Gem, Nonpareil, Beauty Su-
preme, Louis Philippe, Queen of the Isles, Shylock, Duchess, Sir F. Ba-
thurst, Oakley's Gem, — to Mr. Robinson.

Royal Chelsea Dahlia Society.— Best twenty-four blooms: Fear-
less, Earl of Clarendon, Sir F. Bathurst, Gem, Toison d'Or, Negro, Queen
of Lilacs, Duke of Wellington, Thames Bank Hero, Mr. Seldon, Seraph,
Scarlet Eclipse, Marchioness of Cornwallis, Shylock, Queen of Lilacs,
Richard Cobden, Nonpareil, Mrs. Seldon, Black Prince, Duke of Cam-
bridge, Frederick Jerome, Yellow Standard, Louis Philippe and Androme-
da,—to Mr. Turner.

NoTTiNG Hill Dahlia Show.— Best twelve blooms: Duke of Wel-
lington, Queen of Lilacs, Emperor de Maroc, Earl of Clarendon, Fearless,
Essex Triumph, Madame Gobert, Richard Cobden, Mr. Seldon, Seraph,
Shylock and Scarlet Gem,— to Mr. Robinson.

558 Exhibitions of Horticulhiral Societies.

I

Hammersmith Dahlia Show. — Best twelve blooms : Fearless, Richard
Cobden, Serapli, Negro, Mrs. C. Bacon, Nonpareil, Mr. Seldon, Snowflake,
Scarlet Gem, Standard of Perfection, Duke of Wellington and Essex Tri-
umph,— to Mr. Cook.

Shacklewell Horticultural Society. — Best twenty-four blooms:
R. Cobden, Mrs. Seldon, Negro, Duke of Wellington, Andromeda, Tliarnes
Bank Hero, Magnificent, Earl of Clarendon, Nonpareil, Mr. Seldon, Black
Prince, Snowflake, Princess Louise, Utilus, Miss Vyse, John Edwards,
Queen of Lilacs, Shylock, Fearless, Standard of Perfection, Seraph, Duke
of Cambridge, Essex Triumph and Queen of the East, — to Mr. Turner.

Fancy Dahlias. — The following are twenty-four of the most successful
fancy varieties : Flying Dutchman, Striata perfecta, Conspicua, Comus,
Jeanette, La Rosiere, Candidate, Keepsake, Miss Blackmore, Comte de
Flandre, Elizabeth, Lady Grenville, Jenny Lind, Madame Wachy, Miss
Compton, Highland Chief, Picotee, Rainbow, Mrs. Shaw Le Fevre, Roi
de Pointelles, Master George Claj^ton, Miss Jane, Gasparine, Emperor of
Mar DC

Seedlings of 1850. — Those which have been awarded^^^^i class certifi-
cates are the following: — Julien, rose color. Queen of the Fairies, (fancy,)
purplish lake tipped witJi white. Turner's Pretty Polly, (fancy,) vermilion
tipped with white. Stein's Nil Desperandum, scarlet. Sir C. Napier, scarlet,
shaded with black. Hon. Mrs. Ashley, beautiful light tipped. Bragg's
Admiral, brilliant lilac, (superb.) Bushell's Coquille, carmine tipped with
white. Nepaulese Prince and Nepaulese Ambassador, both dark flowers.
Mrs. Hansard, chrome yellow, tipped with white. Others not described, but
which obtained certificates, are George Glenny, Summit of Perfection,
Hon. Mrs. Herbert, Regina, Ambassador, Carmine and Queen of Beauties.

Mr. Turner, of Slough, whose excellent paper on the cultivation of tlie
dahlia will be found in our XHIth volume, (p. 229,) was the most successful
exhibitor, and gained a great number of the first prizes at various exhi-
bitions.

Art. HL Exhibitions of HorticuUurai Societies.

Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. — This society held its twen-
ty-second annual exhibition, on the 18th, 19th and 20th of September last,
at the Masonic Hall in Pliiladelphia.

A large collection of plants was exhibited : — From the president, about
80 varieties, lialf of which were cacti. From J. Dundas, about 100 plants.
From R. Buist, nearly 400 pots of plants, including 30 cacti and upwards
of 50 hardy evergreens in pots. P. Mackenzie, 75 plants. J. D. Fulton,
50 plants. R. Kilvington, 50 plants, and smaller collections from other con-
tributors, in all probably nearly or quite one thousand plants.

The floral designs were numerous, and, from tlie description, executed
with great taste. The display of flowers was about the same as in former
years.

Cincinnati and N. Bedford Hort. Societies. 559

The collection of fruit was large, but the number of varieties rather
limited. Mrs. J. B. Smitli and T. Hancock each exliibitod about 70 varie-
ties of pears, and R. Buist about 40 varieties. Messrs. Ilancocli, J. Per-
kins and G. B. Deacon, exhibited large collections of apples. Of grapes
there was a large display of Isabellas, Catawbas, Elsinburgh, Powell and
others ; the specimens raised under glass were rather limited this year.

The premium for the best and most numerous collection of pears was
awarded to Mrs. J. B. Smith, and for apples to J. Perkins. Best native
grapes, (G varieties,) to Peter Raabe. Best, (under glass,) to Mr. Johns. —
(Report.)

Cincinnati Horticultural Society. — The annual exhibition took
place on the 2d, 3d, 4th and .5th of October last. The Western Horticultu-
ral Review, — a new work, which we shall hereafter notice, — contains a full
report, filling upwards of 30 pages.

The premiums offered were liberal, and the competitors numerous. The
fruits were the chief attraction, — especially the apples, — and they were
deseiTcdly admired for their size and appearance. Many of the Eastern
pomologists said \hej could not recognize their old acquaintances so much
increased in sizg by transportation into the fertile soil of the west. The
pears were not numerous, with the exception of collections from the East,
but a few varieties were shown, and these came mostly from the president,
Mr. Ern'^t, T. V. Petticolas and R. Neale. The award of premums for fruits
was as follows : —

Apples. — For the best 10 varieties, (6 of each,) to M. S. Wade, $10.
Second best, to R. Neale, fa. For the best display of all kinds, to T.
V. Petticolas, silver cup, $20. Second best, to Jos. Orr, $10.
Pears. — For the best 6 varieties, (G each.) to R. Neale, $10. Second
best, Jos. Orr, $5. The same to A. H. Ernst, $5. Best display of all
kinds to Ellwanger & Barry, silver cup, $20.
Peaches. — Best fine varieties, to D. J\IcAvoy, $10. Handsome speci-
mens, to L. Young, Ky., $2.
Grapes. — Best display in variety, to R. B. Bowler, silver cup, $15. Best
display of hardy sorts, to J. E. Mottier, $10. Best display of Black
Hamburgh, to W. Resor, $10. With several prizes for grapes.
Flowers. — The premium for the best display of greenhouse plants in
bloom, was awarded to S. S. Jackson, $25. Second best, to W.
Heaver, $15. Best display of the same not in bloom, to W. Resor,
$20. Second best, N. Longworth, $10. Best 24 dahlias, J. Sayers,
$15. Second best, W. Heaver, $10. Best display, to J. Sayers, $15.
Second best, W. Heaver, $10. With several other prizes for dahlias
and other flowers.
Designs.— For the best, to R. P. Resor, $25. Second best, Mrs. W.

Heaver, $15. Third, to Misses Orange, $10.
Numerous other prizes were awarded, but we have no space to give them.
New Bedford Horticultural Societv. — The fourth annual exhibi-
tion of this society was held at the City Hall, on Wednesday, Thursday,
Friday, and Saturday, the 25th, 2Gth, 27th and 28tii, of September last.

560 Exhibitions of Horticultural Societies.

Our correspondent, Mr. Crapo, has furnished us with the report in detail, but
%ve have only room for a brief notice. The Committee present their report
as follows : —

The Committee, in presenting their annual report, are much gratified in
being able to say, that the show of fruits on the occasion exceeded that of
any former exhibition, and bore ample testimony to the favorable results
which have thus far attended the labors of the Society.

The display of fruits, and more particularly of pears, was very fine, not-
withstanding the present season has been an unfiivorable one for the growtli
of most kinds of fruits, and especially when the limited means of the So-
ciety is taken into the account.

Of pears there were nearly one hundred different varieties upon thr
tables, embracing most of the really desirable kinds now cultivated. Many
of them were trul}^ magnificent in appearance, being very large and fair,
and bore evident marks of good culture in a congenial soil. Of other fruits,
the show, as formerly, was limited, very little attention having heretofore
been given to tlieir culture, although, in this respect, there was evidently an
improvement upon former exhibitions. From the exhibition, as a whole, the
Committee are encouraged to hope that the efforts of the Society to advance
the cause of pomology by increasing a love and diflfusing a taste for the cul-
ture of choice fruits, will be attended with abundant success.

The principal exhibitors v/ere, James Arnold, who had 28 varieties of
pears, 13 of grapes, and other fruits. W. T. Cook, 22 varieties of pears,
&c. R. N. Swift, 29 varieties of pears, 8 of apples, &c. C. W. Morgan.
29 varieties of pears, 14 of apples, &.c. H. H. Crapo, 48 varieties of
pears, 8 of apples, and other fruits. W. P. Jenney, 35 varieties of pears.
There were upwards of sixly other contributors, who sent from one to
twenty varieties of different fruits each, making up a very extensive display.

The flower and vegetable departments were also well supplied v.'ith speci-
mens. The dahlias and asters were the principal attraction in the floral
way. — [Report.)

Annual Exhibition of the Genesee Valley Horticultural So-
ciETV. — This exhibition was held in Corinthian Hall, on the 26th of Sep-
tember, in connection with the Horticultural, Dairy, and Domestic Manufac-
ture departments of the Monroe County Agricultural Fair. The display of
fruits, flowers, and vegetables, Avas very good — superior to any similar show
we have seen in Rochester. The fruits were remarkably select, the speci-
mens fine, and, Avith a few exceptions, correctly named. It is very gratif}'-
ing to see so much attention given to this latter point. This is one of the
results of our Society and its exhibitions. Mr. Hayward, of Brighton ; Mr.
Lay, of Greece ; Mr. H. N. Langworthy, of Irondequoit ; L. B. Langwor-
thy, of Greece ; John Donnelan, of Greece, and several otiiers, presented
beautiful collections of apples. Mr. Donnelan's, in particular, was remark-
ably fine. S. H. Ainsworth, of West Bloomfield, presented a large collec-
tion of apples, pears and plums. Messrs. Bissell &. Hooker presented a
collection of choice pears, including some rare varieties, and some four or
five varieties of foreign grapes, from their vinery. The Black Hamburgs

Clinton County Horticultxiral Society. 561

were especially good — bunches large, well colored and ripened. They
attracted much attention. Mr. H. N. Langworthy exhibited good specimens
of Seckel, Swan's Orange, and White Doyenn6 pears, and fine specimens
of tlie Melon apple, Charles Powis, of Greece, presented a handsome col-
lection of apples and pears ; Ellwanger & Barry, select varieties of apples
and pears. Of peaches, nothing worth naming wes presented, and grapes
were not as fine as usual.

In the floral department, dahlias were the most attractive articles. Of
these the display was decidedly superior to any we have before seen here.
It imparted whatever of brilliancy there was in tlie exhibition, and will no
doubt be the means of drawing increased attention to tliis beautiful autumn
flower. Messrs. C. J. Ryan &. Co., of Charlotte, made an extensive and
beautiful display — their varieties were good, and the specimens tastefully
shown, Messrs, King &. Dawe, and S. Moulson, of Rochester ; Charles
Powis, of Greece ; and Ellwanger and Barry, contributed handsome collec-
tions. A few amateurs, young ladies in particular, made some pretty con-
tributions in the way of dahlias and other cut flowers.

The vegetables were exceedingly fine. We noticed several fine samples
of Lima beans ; and table beets, onions, cauliflowers, &c., grown in perfec-
tion. Mr. Crosman, and Mr. Kem, and Mr. MulhoUand, of Brighton, and
Mr. Donnelan, of Greece, were the principal contributors in this depart-
ment, and deserve great credit for their excellent productions. — ( Genesee
Farmer.)

Clinton County Agricultural Society. — The annual fair was held
at Keeseville, N. Y., September 25 and 26.

The exhibition of fruits and flowers was large and fine. The Committee,
in their report, say, that " tlie exhibition of apples was worthy of all praise ;
superior, it was said, to the late State Fair at Albany. The specimens of
other fruits (grown by exhibitors) were not numerous, but of apples the
variety was great, and the fruit itself of surpassing excellence. The speci-
mens exhibited were decidedly superior in beauty of form, in fullness of
growth, and in most points of excellence, to that grown out of the valley of
Lake Champlain.

Tiiere were several seedlings exiiibited, which gave promise of being
excellent fruit. A seedling of the Siberian Crab, of good flavor, and for
rich and abundant juice, said to keep six months, was shown us. We never
saw larger or more perfect Bartlett pears ; never finer Spitzenbergs, Green-
ings, Russets, Baldwins, Seek-no-furthers, &c., than here ; while, as new
varieties, Battcy's Northern Sweet and the Bailey Spice, quite surpassed our
highest expectations.

The Committee remark that, for much of the interest attaclied to the
pomological department, tiic Society are indebted to the President of the
Massachusetts Horticultural Society, M. P. Wilder, and Ilovey & Co., of
Boston, .C. Downing, Newburg, N. Y., Wilson, Thorburn & Teller, of
Albany, and others who made up a collection exhibited by Mr. Battey,
amounting to ICO varieties of pears; 125 of apples ; 17 of grapes; 14 of
plums, dz.c., the whole number of distinct kinds being 321.

VOL. XVI. NO. XII. 71

562 Exhibition of Horticultural Societies.

The premiums were awarded as follows : —

Fruits. — Class I. — To J. Battey, for the best exhibition of apples, $1
and vol. Horticulturist. To A. D. Barber, for the best 12 table sorts,
$1 and Downing's Fruits. To J. W. Bailey, for the second best,
American Fruit Culturist.. To J. Battey, for the best 6 table sorts,
$1 and Downing's Fruits. To J. W. Bailey, 2d, American Fruit
Culturist. To J. Battey, for the best exhibition of grapes, $1 and 1
vol. Hovey's Magazine. To J. C. Hubbell, Chazy, 2d, Downing's
Fruits. To J. Battey, for the best hardy variety, (McNeil,) $1 and
Allen on the Grape. To J. C. Hubbell, for the second best, Spooner
on the Vine. To J. Battey, for peaches, Downing's Fruits. To J.
W. Bailey, for the best general exhibition of fruits, Downing's Fruits,
colored edition.
Class II. — To J. Battey, for the best collection of specimen fruits,
Hovey's Fruits of America, colored plates. To Eliza P. Benedict, for
second. Brown's Trees of America. To Mrs. J. Battey, for one jar
grape jelly, $1 ; 1 jar pickles, $1 ; 1 jar preserved apples, $1.
Southern Iowa Horticultural Society. — The progress of horticul-
ture in the West is best evinced by the exhibitions of the various societies.
The number of contributors is greatly on the increase, and the number of
varieties exhibited much larger every season. The following account will
show the taste for gardening in Iowa : —

The annual exhibition of tlie Society, held on Thursday and Friday, the
19th and 20th of September, was such as the members may well be proud
of. The large hall of the Sons of Temperance was covered with tables
loaded down with apples, pears, peaches, grapes, &c., of the most inviting
appearance. The effect was still further improved by the addition of flow-
ers and greenhouse plants of every hue and of the most delightful fragrance.
Bouquets of rare and beautiful roses, dahlias, verbenas, etc., were distributed
through the room in the greatest profusion.

Nor should the more homely and substantial part of the exhibition in the
shape of vegetables, be forgotten. We saw many contributions in this line
which would do credit to the producers in any market of the east or the
west. The sweet potatoes of Mrs. Parriott and of Mr. J. B. Browning,
were, in every respect, worthy of commendation. The egg-plant of Robert
Gray was the finest we ever saw, and we do not think it could be excelled
anywhere. The rhubarb of the Messrs. Neally was large and tender, and
deserves special notice. Mr. Davis, of this city, exhibited a new variety of
Irish potato, raised from the seed, which, he informed us, were remarkable
for their dryness when young, and for withstanding the rot.

The contributors of fruit were very numerous. About one hundred and
fifty different varieties of apples were exhibited. Of these Robert Avery,
the worthy president of tlie Society, had sixty-eight varieties ; Mr. J. W.
Fell, of Adams Co., 111., showing fifty varieties; Rev. A. Leonard, twenty-
seven varieties ; Calvin Gamage, twenty- eight varieties ; Joseph Stephens,
of Lowell, twenty-six varieties, besides numerous smaller contributors.

Worcester Horticultural Society. 563

Of pears, though tlie varieties were not numerous, the kinds exhibited
were very choice. At the liead of the list, we place the Seckel pears ex-
hibited by Joseph Stephens. They were universally admitted to be witliout
any fliult. The same gentleman showed the Bartlett rather past its season.
The White Doyenne, Long Green and Orange Bergamot, were very fine.
The Messrs. Neally showed the Flemish Beauty. J. W. Grimes showed
the Beurr6 Diel, Louise Bonne of Jersey and Soldat Laboreur, all very fine.
The president showed the Pound pear, though in reality they were two pound
pears. Several other varieties were shown by diiferent contribuLors, the
names of which we did not learn.

Peaches were exhibited in great variety and profusion. Where all were
so good, it would almost seem invidious! to draw any comparison. Those 6f
Robert McClure, L. Cook, A. Leonard, J. W. Grimes and R. Avery, were
remarkable for their size and appearance. The peaches of S. M. Clen-
denin and C. C. Cloutman were generally preferred for their excellent
flavor.

The Isabella and Catawba grapes of R. Avery, F. H. Runge, J. Bum-
barger and J. W. Woods, were excellent and abundant. Messrs. Bum-
barger and Woods exhibited tlie Cape Grape. Mr. Berry's grape, supposed
to be a seedling, was shown in fine condition. Coe's Golden Drop plum
was shown by L. Cook, D. Rorer and J. W. Grimes. Cranberries, grown
by himself, were shown by Reuben Brackett, of Denmark. Of the flowers
exhibited it is impossible for us to do justice. The largest shows were from
the gardens of Robert Gray, and from tlio greenhouse of E. D. Rand.

Premiums were awarded, but we have no room for the list.

Worcester Horticultural Societv. — The eleventh annual exhibi-
tion of the Society M-as held on Wednesday the 18th of September. The
Committee report, tliat they are of tlie opinion tliat a finer display of fruit
than that which tliey were called upon to examine, has never been exhibited
within the limits of New England, outside of the city of Boston.

They are sorry, however, to be compelled to believe that the attractions of
every department of the exhibition might have been greatly increased, had
the zeal of many cultivators residing in the immediate vicinity been in any
measure equal to their abilities.

Nevertheless the lovers of fruits and flowers may well congratulate them-
selves upon tlie measure of prosperity to which the Society has attained ;
gratifying as it is for the present ; encouraging as we hope it may be for the
future.

One thing cannot fail to be noticed, that the pomological resources of the
Society have wonderfully increased within a comparatively short period of
time.

Ten years ago, there were placed upon a few small tables in an obscure
room, three or four dozen dishes of apples, — chiefly of the most common
varieties ; a few plates of pears, — kindly given or reluctantly lent for the
occasion by cultivators residing within the temtory proper of the Massachu-
setts Horticultural Society ; a score or tv.-o of quinces, and o?ie solitary sain-
ple of the peach .'

564 Exhibitions of Horticultural Societies.

To make out the attractions of the display, the room itself was decorated
with paintings. These and other preparations having been made, the peo-
ple (counted as easily by scores as by hundreds,) assembled to witness the
first regular exhibition held by the Society,

A few years have passed away, and the Society have just held their
eleventh annual exhibition. Their large and commodious hall was filled
with tables, leaving only passage-ways between them. Upon these were
arranged twelve hundred plates of beautiful fruit, all carefully labelled !
Beside the members of the society, more than two thousand visitors crowded
into the hall to examine and compare the fruits, and to become bewildered
by the profusion that surrounded them.

* The display of pears alone comprised nearly four hundred plates, contain-
ing specimens of not less than seventy varieties !

Of apples, there was a still greater quantity, although the number of
known varieties might have been less.

More than thirty varieties of the peach were exhibited, among which
were several fine and beautiful seedlings. Although late and in an unpro-
pitious season, the best collection numbered not less than thirteen valuable
varieties of the plum, — a cheering evidence that, in despite of black excres-
cence, the rot, and the curculios, it is not yet time to despair of this favorite
fruit.

Of grapes under glass, a single cultivator, — D. W. Lincoln, Esq., of this
city, — exhibited nine varieties.

Several specimens of the grape grown in open culture were upon the
tables, but tliey were mostly unripe. There were also fine quinces and
other fruits.

There were upwards of one hundred and twenty contributors, principally
from the county. The largest collections were from the city as fol-
lows : —

D. W. Lincoln, Worcester, pears, G3 varieties ; grapes, (grown under
glass,) 9 varieties. J. M. Earle, (president of the Society,) pears, 47 varie-
ties ; plums, 4 varieties. S. H. Colton, (of Worcester Nursery,) pears, ^7
varieties ; apples, 52 varieties ; peaches, 23 varieties ; plums, 13 varieties.
Benjamin F. Thomas, pears, between 20 and 25 varieties. Hon. Levi Lin-
coln, pears, 17 to 20 varieties. Joel Knapp, Sutton, apples, 20 varieties.
George A. Chamberlam, Worcester, apples, 25 to 30 varieties. B. N.
Child, Worcester, apples, IG to 20 varieties. Asa H. Waters, Millbury,
pears, and other fruits, 33 varieties.

The award of premiums on pears and apples was as follows : —

Pears.— 1. To J. M. Earle, best collection, $5. 2. To D. W. Lincoln,
second best, $4. 3. To S. H. Colton, third best, #3. 4. To John C.
Mason, best dish of not less than six, (Paradise of Automne,) $2. 5.
To Gardiner Paine, second best, (Louise Bonne of Jersey,) $\.

Apples. — 1. To S. H. Colton, best collection, #5. 2. To J. Knapp, Sut-
ton, second best, $L 3. To B. N. Child, third best, $3. 4. To Job
C. Stone, best dish of not less than six, (Mother apples,) $2. 5. To
Chester Gorham, Barre, second best, (Hubbardston Nonsuch,) $1.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 565

Peaches. — 1. To J. II. Allen, best collection, $\. 2. To Capt. Silas
Allen, second best, $3. 3. To C. J. Parker, tliird best, #2. 4. To
Asa H. Allen, best disli of not less than 12, (for his splendid Seed-
lings,) $2. 5. To W. L. Lewis, Grafton, second best, (Early Craw-
ford,) $1. (). To Charles H. Hill, best new seedling peach, $1.
Plums. — 1. To S. H. Colton, best collection, $4. 3. To Ansel Lakin,
best dish of plums, $2. 4. To J. C. Mason, second best (Jefferson,) $1.
Grapes. — The splendid specimens from D. W. Lincoln being entered
for exhibition only, the Committee awarded the first to Charles Hale,
Millbiiry, best grapes, (grown under glass,) $2. 3. To Willard Earle,
best grapes, of open culture, (Sweetwater,) ^.
Quinces. — 1. Job C. Stone, best specimen of not less than six, $2.
Gratuity. — To Solomon Parsons, for a beautiful plate of High black-
berries, $1.
The whole report, made out by our correspondent, Mr. Jacques, is more
interesting than such documents usually are, but we have no space to insert
'\i.—Ed.

The Oswego Horticultural Society held their annual show on
Tuesday, tlie 17th of September, at the City Hall in Oswego. The show
"of flowers, greenhouse plants, &c., though not as large as at the July exhi-
bition, was very fine, presenting everything rare and attractive, which the
season afibrds. The fruits and vegetables were in great profusion and va-
riety, and of the finest quality.

The principal exhibitors of fruits were Messrs. Allen and Kline, who
had 45 varieties of pears, 18 varieties of apples, &c. Schuyler Warden,
36 varieties of pears, and 25 of apples, &c. J. M. Cusey, 11 varieties of
pears, 11 of peaches and 8 of apples. C. S. Phelps, 9 varieties of pears, 6
varieties of apples. J. J. Fort, 13 varieties of apples, peaches, &c. H.
Littlefield, 9 varieties of pears, apples, &c.

The contributors of flowers numbered upwards of thirty, principally
ladies, and the exhibition, considering the season, was very fine.

Art. IV. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, October 26. Exhibited. — Fruit : From W. R. Austin, fine
specimens of Catillac, Duchess of Angouleme, Le Cure, Passe Colmar and
Bezi de la Motte. From S. Driver, fine Dix pears. From A. VV. Stetson,
Catawba and Isabella grapes, fine. From O. Johnson, very fine Duchess of
Angouleme and Urbaniste pears. PVom W. Bacon, very fine Beurr^ Diel
and Easter Beurre pears. From W. W. Merrill, fine White Doyenn6 pears.
From S. H. Perkins, White Doyenn6 pears. From E. Cleaves, Dix and
Duchess of Angouleme pears. From J. C. Parkinson, Duchess of Angou-
leme and Beurr6 Diel pears. From J. Lovett, fine quinces. From S. Downer,
Jr., very fine Urbaniste and Louise Bonne of Jersey pears. From C. E.
Grant, fine Isabella grapes. From George Wilson, seedling pears.

666 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

From Hovey & Co., Comtesse de Lunay, Henry IV., Beurr6 Diel, Beurr6
d'Anjou, Hill's Fall Butter, and White Doyenne pears. From Isaac Hawes,
beautiful White Doyenne pears. From S. Needham, B. Hamburgh, and
four other sorts grapes. From B. D. Emerson, Black Hamburgh grapes.
From H. Vandine, BufFum, Marie Louise, Passe Colmar, Seckel, Heathcot
and other pears.

Findts tested by the Committee : Hall's DoAvn Easton peaches, from J,
Owen, excellent. Seedling pear from Marblehead, good size, and promises
well. Beurre d'Anjou from Hovey &. Co., very fine, as heretofore ; Comtesse
de Lunay, handsome and good ; Comte de Lunay, sugary and excellent. Eye-
wood from the President, good. Beurre Bosc, Beurr6 Diel, Urbaniste, Brown
Beurr6, and other pears, from J. P. Gushing, all excellent. Seedling pear ,
from H. H. Crapo, of ordinary quality ; not worthy of cultivation for the table.

JVovember 2. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, the
President in the chair. [Proceedings in our next number.]

Exhibited. — Fruits : From J. Lovett, Duchess of Angouleme, Eyewood,
Beurre Bosc, Urbaniste, Marie Louise, Seckel, Beurr6 Diel, Fulton, Colmar
Niel and Edwards's Elizabeth, all fine ; also Boxford apples. S. Downer,
Jr., very fine Beurr6 Diel pears. John Gordon, fine Capiaumont pears
and apples without name. S. Driver, Marie Louise pears, fine. E. Brown,
Fulton pears. H. Vandine, Seckel, Lawrence, BufFum, Napoleon, Passe
Colmar and Marie Louise pears, some of them fine. A. W. Stetson, Isa-
bella grapes. J. Washburn, St. Martin's Quetsche plums, and Fondante de
Malines, Napoleon and Edwards's Elizabeth pears, fine. F. Dana, seedling
pears. No. 1, called Martha Ann. Hovey & Co., Beurr6 d'Anjou pears and
the Sheldon, from Western New York. B. Guild, beautiful White Doy-
enne.

Fruits tested by the Committee : Ropes pear from J. F. Allen, pleasant
flavor, specimen over ripe. Marie Louise, from H. Vandine, fine quality ;
Napoleon and Lawrence, good. Vicompte de Spoelberch, from Hovey &
Co., good. Napoleon, from J. Washburn, fine. Urbaniste and Beurr6
Duval pears, from the President, very fine. Seedling pears from F. Dana,
called Martha Ann, specimens not quite in eating, but the committee think
it a fruit of great promise. From J. Battey, Keeseville, N. Y., Northern
Sweet apples, fine.

PREMIUMS AWARDED FOR FRUITS.

Foreign Grapes. — For the best specimens, various kinds, to Hovey &
Co., #10.

For the second best, to T. Needham, $7.
Native Grapes. — For the best specimens, (Isabella,) to A. W. Stetson, $5.

For the second best, (Isabella,) to C. E. Grant, $S.
Nectarines. — For the best specimens, (Lewis,) to S. H. Perkins, $6.

For the second best, (various sorts,) to J. F. Allen, $4.

A gratuity to W. C. Strong of $i.
Peaches. — For the best specimens to G. Merriam, $6.

For the second best, to J. F. Allen, $i.

A gratuity of $4 each to Hovey &. Co., and E. King.

Horticultural Operations for December. 567

Plums. — For the best specimens, (Green Gage,) to George Walsh, #6.
For tlie second best, (Peach phim and Green Gage,) to J. Mann, $3.

Musk Melo:*s. — For the best, (Christiana,) to E. M. Richards, $5.
For the second best, (Beechwood,) to Hovey &l Co., $3.

Vegetables. — From Jos. Crosby, fine celery, and three superior heads
of Royal Cape Lettuce.

JVovemhtr 9. Exhibited. — Fruits : From J. S. Cabot, Nouveau Poiteau,
Calhoun, and Dallas pears, and eight varieties of apples. H. Vandine,
Glout Morceau, Beurre Diel and Long Rosewater pears. George Walch,
Beurrd Diel and Le Cure pears. W. C. Strong, six varieties of grapes. J.
S. Sleeper, Belle et Bonne de Hec (?) pears. J. Kenrick, Cogsv.oll and
Hubbardston Nonsuch apples.

IVuits tested by the Committee : Nouveau Poiteau pears, from J. S.
Cabot, of medium size, melting, juicy, and of delicious flavor. Seedling
pears, Martlia Ann, from F. Dana, overripe, exhibits a tendency to rot at the
core. Isabella grapes, from J. F. Allen, raised under glass, nearly destitute
of the hard pulp and foxy flavor, fine. Hurlburt apple, from S. W. Cole, a
good fruit of fine flnvor. Fruit of the Purple Guava, from Hovey & Co.
Apples from J. M. Earle, among them one called the Peru, very good.

HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS

FOR DECEMBER.
FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines will now be at rest, and if the pruning has not been done,
it should be completed at once. As soon as this is finished, clear tlie vines
of all dry bark, and give them a good washing of whale-oil soap, diluted
to the tliiekness of good paint ; this will destroy insects of all kinds ; tlie
canes should then be laid in horizontally along the front of the house, until
they again show signs of swelling their buds.

Fruit Trees, planted last month, should now be protected by having a
barrowful of manure placed around the stem of each tree, in the form of a
cone, to keep the frost from penetrating the ground too deep, and, at tlie
same time, enriching the soil.

SciOMS of all kinds of fruit trees may be cut this month and placed in a
cool cellar, with tlie lower ends in earth or sand.

Newly planted Trees, in windy places, should be secured by a stake.

Peach, Fig, and other Fruit Trees, in pots, should now be pruned,
and washed in the same manner as recommended for grapes; after this is
done they should be placed in a cool cellar, where they will be out of the
danger of severe cold.

Strawberry Beds should now be protected with a covering of manure,
leaves or straw, if not already done.

568 Horticultural Operations for December.

FLOWER DEPARTMENT.

Japan Lilies, in the open ground, should now be protected with a cov-
ering- of leaves or manure, sufficient to keep off severe frosts. Common
white and other lilies also come up stronger for having a slight covering
during winter. Bulbs for flowering in pots may be kept in a cold frame.

HvACiJVTHS, Tulips, and other similar bulbs, should be protected with a
light covering of leaves or manure.

Pansies set out now, and protected with a frame, will bloom finely in the
spring. Seeds may now be sown in pots for planting out next spring.

Carnations and Picotees should now be protected by a covering of
leaves, and, if choice kinds, with the additional covering of sashes or boards
to keep off the rain and snow.

Ranunculus Beds should now be got in readiness for planting in Feb-
ruary or March.

Roses, taken up and potted last month, should now be headed in, cutting
away all small shoots to a good eye. They may be "wintered in a cold
frame, or be taken into the house, where they will bloom from February to
May.

Chinese Primroses will need another shift this month into larger pots,
in Avhich they are to bloom.

OxALisEs AND SpARAXis, pottcd last mouth, should now have a good
place on a shelf near the glass.

Pelargoniums will now require to have another shift into the blooming
pots ; keep them in an airy place near the glass, and nip off tlie tops of the
young shoots to make them bushy plants.

Hardy Herbaceous plants of all kinds may have a little old decayed
manure or rotten leaves thrown over them, and they will be greatly bene-
fited by it.

Chrysanthemums, done blooming, may be wintered in a cold frame or
cool cellar.

AcHiMENEs of the various sorts may be potted the last of the month for
early blooming.

N^politan Violets, in frames, should be well secured from frost by
banking up well, and covering thickly with mats and straw or hay.

Monthly Pinks and Carnations, for early blooming, may now be
shifted into larger size pots.

Camellias will now require liberal supplies of water, and occasionally
liquid manure or guano ; keep tlie surface of the pots free from moss by
occasional top-dressing ; syringe the foliage once or twice a M'eek. Cut-
tings may be put in now, and seeds planted.

Chinese Azaleas should now be ratlier sparingly watered.

Rhododendron, Azalea and Kalmia Seeds may now be sown in pots
or boxes.

Hyacinths may now be potted for spring blooming.

Greenhouse Plants, of all kinds, will require attention. Many sorts
may now be propagated, particularly the hard-wooded kinds ; others will
require repotting, while others will need tying up, top-dressing, &c. &c.
Keep the pots clean by occasional washing.