UMASS/AMHERST 312066 0333 2908 7 FIVE COLLEGE DEPOSITORY m ! nDDDDDDDDDnanDDnnDDDnnnnnDDDnaDD n u D D n D D D ^ot^s^^ D D D D id^^% a D D > ^l frr /v ^ D D 5. 1a lytf fff ^ D D ■p vS^^^/J^ ^ D D D D ^-v^^^** D D D D D D a D D UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS D D D D LIBRARY D D D D D D D D D D D D D n D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D n D D D D D D D D D a D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D □ D D D D D D D D DDDDDDDDDnaDDDDDanDaaDDDDDDDDDDD Digitized by tine Internet Arciiive in 2010 witii funding from Boston Library Consortium IVIember Libraries littp://www.arcliive.org/details/magazineofliortic1862bost LIBRARY UNlVERSr^- F AMHERST, MASS, Si^ ^-^■V vX V ' '^■'"•^. v.^^.5:t-^vV>->^-- > * ■•••■ \ , v-'^'^ \ A" ■"•■.» V-' \ .—A ^^.-^ • 'N^"-vxvv.Wsr" THE MAGAZINE OP HOETICULTUPtE, BOTANY, AND ALL USEFUL DISCOVERIES AND IMPROVEMENTS IN RURAL AFFAIRS. '' Je voudrais ^chauffer tout I'univers de mon gout pour les Jardins. II me semble qu'U est impossible qu'un mechant puisse I'avoir. II n'est point de verlus que je ne suppose a celui que aime a parler el a faire des jardins. Peres de famille, inspirez a jardinomanie a vos enfans." — Prince, de Ligne. VOL. XXVIII. 1862. (vol. III., rOURTH SERIES.) Edited by C. M. H O Y E Y. AUTHOR OF THE " FRUITS OF AMERICA." BOSTON: PUBLISHED BY HOVEY AND CO., 23 KILBY STREET. 1862. M a,7 HENRY W. BUTTON & SON, PRINTERS, 90 AND 92 Washinqion Street. t CONTENTS. ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS. GENERAL SUBJECT. The Progress of Horticulture. By the Editor, 1 On the Value of Certain Insects. By Wil- son Flagg, 15 Orchards. By the Editor, . . . .49 Half Hours with Old Authors By Wilson Flagg, 58, 102, 150, 200, 245, 293, 342, 890, 4.39, 485, 534 Scientific Gardening. By A. Chamberlain, 64 Winter Scenery. By Mrs. Isaac Clement, 130 The Production of New Plants. By the Editor, 145 The History and Progress of Breeding New Plants. By the Editor, . . . .193 A Revelation from Horticultural HaU. By an Outsider, 204 The Progress of Horticulture. By an Am- • ateur, 300, 398 Hardiness of Foreign Trees. By the Editor, 385 American Pomological Society. By the Editor, 433 The Orchard-House. By H. H. Hunne- weU, Esq., 449 The Lesson of the Year. By the Editor, 529 Suburban Visits. By the Editor, . . 460 HORTICULTURE. Cordon Training of Fruit Trees, adapted to the Orchard House and Open- Air Culture. By Rev. T. Brehaut, 21, 69, 115, 157, 211, 250, 306, 348 Grapes. By the Editor, . . . .97 Chinese Yam. By William Courtis. . . 122 The Tomato de Laye. By the Editor, . 219 Cherries. By the Editor, . . . .316 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears. By the Editor, 512 Catherine Lambre, Willermoz, Duchess de Brabant. Pomological Gossip, 33, 77, 125, 176, 217, 260, 359, 396, 446, 492, 540 New Strawberries. By Wm. R. Prince, . 400 Orchard House Culture By the Editor, 481 New Grapes. By Wm. Kenrick, . . 504 Pear Trees on the Wine Glass Pattern. By Capt. W. B. Austin, . . . .507 Peaches Without Glass. By James Weed, 510 ARBORICULTURE. Tree Wounds and the Mode of Healing them. By Eugene Forney, . . .81 On Certain Ornamental Trees, and the Re- sults of some Experiments in Heavy Transplanting. By George Jaques, . 108 Remarks on Rhododendrons and some of the New Evergreens. By H. H. Hunne- well, Esq., 371 Arboricultural Notices, .... 273 FLORICULTURE. Our Hardy Herbaceous Plants. By the Editor. CEnothera macrocarpa, . . 37 - ■ ■- .91 . 137 . 329 . 378 . 422 . 458 . 554 From the . 132 Anemone Narcissiflora, Adonis Vernalis, Ranunculus acris pleno, Trollius Europaeus, . Asclepias tuberosa, . Gentiana acaulis, Iberis Xenoreana, Perpetual or Tree carnations. Gardeners' Chronicle, In-Door Gardening. From the Gardeners' Chronicle, 169, 221, 264, 820, 366, 408, 452, 517, 556 Flowers for Dry Ground. By Mrs. Isaac Clement, 179 The Gladiolus. From the Cottage Gardener, 180 Roses. By the Editor, . . . .241 The Rhododendron and Azalea. By the Editor, 289 The Paeonies By the Editor, . . . 837 The American Rhododendron. By Leander Wetherell, 402 The Fancy Pelargonium. From the Florist, 419 Floricultural Notices, 85, 186, 267, 325, 380, 410 522 550 The Hyacinth. By William Paul, .' .' 544 IV CONTENTS. LIST OF ENGRAVINGS. TREES AXD PLANTS. fis page. 3. Adonis vemalis, . . . . . 138 2 Anemone narcissiflora, . 92 16. Asclepias tuberosa, . 423 21. Iberis Tenoreana, . 555 1. Oenothera matrocarpa. . 38 14. Kanunculus aconitifolius pleno, . . 330 13. '• aeris pleuo, . 330 15. Trollius europeeus, . 378 IT. Gentiana acaulis, . . . . . 459 OPERATIONS. 4. Diagonal Cordon of Peaches, on the triple sjstem, 158 5. Fruit-spur on the Peach, showing the successive growths, and alternate Pruning, 165 6. Fruit-spurs on the Peach — alternate pruning. Second appearance, . 166 fg. Pagt- 7. Formation of Fruit-spurs on the Apri- cot First winter's pruning, . . 215 8. Formatiou of Fruit-spurs on the Apri- cot. Second winter's pruning, . 216 9. Formation of spurs on the Plum. First winter's pruning, .... 251 10. Formation of fruitful spurs on the Plum. Second winter's pruning, . 252 11. Formation of fruitful spurs on the Pear. Copimeneement, . . . 256 12. Formation of fruitful spurs on the Pear. Completion, .... 257 FRUITS. 18. Catherine Lambr6, 20. Duchess de Brabant, 19. ■\Villermoz, 513 216 514 LIST OF PLANTS. In the body of the Magazine, a few errors occur in the spelling of the botanical niimes. thff cai)italizing the generic and specific names, their derivation and accentuation; these are all corrected in the following list of plants : — List of Annuals, 424 List of Azalea."!, exhibited, .... 268 List of Begonias, 41 List of Perpetual Carnations, . . . 132 Lists of Dahlias, .... 476, 532 List of GladioU, 185 List of Japanese Plants, exhibited, . . 328 List of Plants 475 List of Magnoliaa, 333 Lists of New Shrubs and Plants from .Japan, List of Pseonies, . List of Pelargoniums, List of Fancy Pelargoniums, Lists of Rhododendrons, Lists of Fine Roses, 85, 186 , 273, 329 . 34(.i . 410 . 422 276, 402 244, 427, ■m List of New Roses, 87 yl^bies Alcoquicina, 329 cephaloniua, 375 rtrma, 328 uiorlnda, 388 uobilis, 376 Norduiant'dna, 375 orientilis, 875 PInsapo, 375 A^ccT i)lutanoldea, 108 rubruui, 203 saccharlnum, 108 Acroliniuui rosoum, 425 .■ldiintum(;apilluH-ven<>ri.i,409 cuneitum, 409, 617 formnsum, 400 Adiini.s vcrnalirt, 137 A^K'iV" lil'fera, 187 Allosorus crif pus, 409 /I'lnuH HorrulitJi, 203 Amuranthus niulancholicuH ruber, 550 Amaryllis formoHloHlma, 275 Ami'irpha fructir6Hii, 131 ylnilniiiiiil.i nilyculita, 203 Annul iop.^in ralifciriiica, 189 ylu(!iii"iii? appeulna, 93 hortiiiisiM, 91 Jup6iiica, 93 uurclHHltl6ra, 91 numordiia, 2 )8 pl6no, 93 .Anemone Pulsatilla, speciosa, tlialietroldcs, ^ngiiria. W'arscowlcziJ, Autlii'inuu t^cherzeridnitwi, i Aquil' i^i'i lnln,-lii I Milioroa, Jsclcpi:!^ I IllliTuSa, Aucubajapouica, Azilea indica, Adolphe von Nassau, Albo clncta, uuiit'^na. Princess Bathilda, Bride, Brilliant, ('onite do Ilainault, ('onsolatiou, Correcta, criKpitlora, (U'ci'ira, Distinction, Dr. Livingstone, Due de Niuisau, Due d'Aremberg, 2(i8, Ducliesso de Na.sHau, Ktcndard de Flanders, '. Ktoile de (iand, Flower of the Daj", Clem, Qrata, 93 Azilea Ilortense A'ervsene, 268 93 lUustris nova, 269 203 1 Model, 268,328 272 obtusa. 327 523 ' Osborui, 328 203 Roi Leopold, 268 269 Souvenir du Prince Albert, 422 326 187 A'irgin Queen, 268 327 Ba))ib^)fa Mctdke. 427 268 Barti'inifi aiirea. 180 269 Begonia cinnabariua, 41 227 diversifilia, 41 268 Dregii, 41,369 2(W Evaus/'dno, 41 224, 266 269 Flseheri, 41 269 frigida. 42 268 (UilTltlui, 41 269 niauioAta, 41 828 Martidjin, 41 828 niicrophvlla, 41 268 natalensis, 41, 42 268 nltida, 40 268 iH'topiitala, 40 82(1 odoritji, 41 268 piismatocarpa, 416 268 spl6ndida, 41, 42 268 ThwaiU'Si'i, 42 269 uropliylla. 41 268 Bolbophylluui oflprcum, 522 269 Rhizoph6ra', 410 CONTENTS. BonopSrtea. gricilis, 188 IlabrotliLimnus 61egans, 426 Physiirus maculitus. 415 juiiooa, 44 93 ,188 Ila'iiuiiithus ciniKibiiriiiu.s ,417 Pinus Cembra, 375 Calli(Ji>Kis bicolor, 4S5 iielicbrysum bracteatum in- densiHora, 329 OAUa lethiopica, 224 ci'irvum. 428 exsf'lsa. 375 Oiltha paliistris, 203 IlelicAna metiillica. 418 Gojomitis, 86 Campanula Lore/i, 180 Ilcpatica triloba, 203 Koraiensis, 273 Campy lob6try8 regilis, 90 Iligglns/a rcgilis, 90 Lambcrtidna, 375 Ciinna A'nna;i, 27e Iloya lacun6sa, 88 Pianera acuminata, 274 gigiintea, 276 Hydrangea jap6nica. 455 Polygala paucifolia. 203 zebrlna, 276 /^beris Tenoredna, 554 PopuluH tremuloides. 203 Carex margiDita. 203 iberis umbcUita, 425 Pteris argyraeVi, 408 ,455 CephalotAxus Fortuni, 875 /lex I'ortun/, cretica albo lineita, 455 408. Ceutaur^a americina, 180 lUfcium anisatum. 86 ,561 cyinus. 180 Impitiens fliccida. 89 nem oralis variegata. 551 Ceropegia Gai-dner?, 415 lochroma grandiflorum. 272 serruiata, 408 ,455 CharufecypAi-is variegita, 388 Ipomse^a Bona Nox, 324 tremula. 455 ChamfeVops excelsa, 86 Burridge;', 824 tricolor, 408, 410 ,455 Ifortuni, 426 riibra coeriilea. 324 Pyrus coccinea. 274 Chioninthus virgfnicus, 386 /"ris longipttala. 270 coroniriaj 274 Cissus discolor, 276 Ischarum Pyram?, 553 Moerloosi'/ . 274 Citrus japonica, 86 Juglans squamosa. 110 Quercus cuspidita. 86 eiirkia pulchella fldre-pli no, ^uuiperus lutea, 86 sinensis. 186 425 rigida, 329 Jlanunculus icris pleno. 830 pulcherritna ,425 japonica. 3^8 aconitifolius pleno, 830 Clerodendron calami tosvun ,270 Lachenilja aiirea. 44 fasciculiris. 203 ThomsoiiiK, 417 luteola, 44 Retinospora lycopodioides 273, Clomenocoma montina, 416 pendula. 44 829 Clusla Brongniariana, 554 tricolor. 44 obtusa argentea. 329 Coleus Verschaffeltii, 276 heda coccinea. 271 pislfera aiirea. 328 CoUins/a bicolor, 425 Leotodon taraxacum. 203 variegata, 273 multicolor, 425 Leptosiphon androsiceus. 425 iShododendron albiflorum ,403 Comptonia asplenifolia, 203 aureus. 425 argenteum, 276 Corylus americina, 203 densiflorus. 425 arboreum, 40£ ,410 (Josmidium filifolium Bur Lingularia Kae'mpferi, 271 Auckland/, 276 ridgid)(M??i, 425 Lilium auritum, 417, 427 ,466 californicum. 403 Crfipis barbita. 180 Dexter/, 380 Campbell/, 276 Ci-6cus ochroleucus. 270 lancifolium. 418 campylocarpum, 276 Cryptomferia auraucaroides, 86 Thunberg/dnwwJ , 418 catawbiense. 402 gracilis. 86 tigrinum. 428 Tyalhonsidnuni. 276 senilis. 86 Limatodes rosea. 417 Dalhousiae hybridum 553 Cupressus macrocArpa, 388 Liniodorum ensitum. 86 Edgworth/, 276 Cycas prolifera, 86 Littse^a jiincea, 188 fulgens, 276 522 Cypripedium japonica, 86 Roe^zlrj, 188 Hodgson/, 276 Davillia decora, 408 Lobelia erinus speciosa, 426 endicum. 403 dissecta. 408 Lyc4ste Skinneri, 454 lapponicum. 402 Dendrobium Lowii, 272 iychnis Senno, 86 187 Maddem, 276 Dennstaetia adiantoldes. 409 Lycopodium denticulitum ,455 maximum, 386 403 Deutzm gracilis. 519 Lygodium scandens. 454 Metternlch/i, 86 Diinthus Heddewigij, 425 Lupinus Dunnetti j superl us, NutaiH, 276 YersebaffeltM', 272 425 ponticum, 403 Dioscorea Batdtas, 1-2 hybridus insignis, 425 punctitmn, 402 Diospyrus Kdki, 86 Magnol/a acuminata. 333 Thomsoni, 276 Z)riba verna, 203 auriculita. 333 virgitum', 276 Echinacea angustifolia. 90 conspicua 333 Wighti/, 276 I'chinosteichys Pinelidna, 524 SoulangedMa, 383 Rodanthe maculita, 425 Epidendrum monililbrme. 86 glaiica, 833 ,386 Mangles//, 188 425 Epigea repens. 203 sempervirens. 833 sangiiinea. 188 Erianthus japonicus. 86 gracilis. 333 (Salix discolor. 203 -Brisymum Perofiskyo«MOT ,425 hypleiica. 86 eriocephala. 203 Eschscholtzja crocea. 425 nymphseoiiies. 86 salvia cacaUsefola, 88 Eucharis amazonica, 140 Malope grandifiora, 425 patens. 89 jEMdnymus maritima. 388 Malortiea gracilis. 188 Tenor/?, 180 Eiirya latifolia yariegita. 328 Maxilliria yenusta, 270 Saccalobium miniatum, 564 Gentidna acaiilis. 458 Medinilla magnifica. 828 Sanguinaria canadensis. 203 crinita. 460 Microlfepia scabara. 328 Saxifraga vernilis, 203 fimbriata, 460 Mutisia deciirrens, 88 466 Scladopitys verticillita, 829 saponiria. 460 J/yrica cerlfera, 203 ■Scllla Berthelot/i, 416 Gilia acbilleifolia. 425 gdle, 203 Silene armeria, 425 capitita, 180 426 CEnotbfera Friseri, 39 Atocion, 425 tricolor. 425 fructicosa, 39 pseudo-Atocion, 425 Gladiolus Brenchleyensis, 184 glaiica. 39 pendula. 425 Calandul^ceus, 184 prostrita, 40 Sklmm/a, new. 187 Couranti fulgens, 184 macrocarpa, 36 Spergula pilifera, 180 Glyptostrobus heterophyll us, Oreodiphne californica. 523 -Spirae^a Douglas/i, 131 388 Palisota Barter!, 523 pruniflora. 85 Gnaphilium plantagineum, Passifiora Kermesijia, 454 Stauhopea Bucephalus, 90 203 Picea pichta, 876 oculata, 271 Gonatintlius sarmentoaus 89 PhyUagithis rotuadifolia, 90 WardiH 189 VI CONTENTS. Stuirtm pentagrnia. 274 Trdllius asiiticus. 379 Theophr4sta iniperiulis, 275 41bus, 379 Thiija a6rea. 388 europBC"'us, 379 falcita, 273 329 intermeiUus, 379 pygmaj^a, 273, 329 Tussil^go firfara. 203 Thujopsis boreilis, 375 L'^liuus americina, 108, 203 dolabrita, 329 lulva. 203 Keeteleeri Tariegita, 3-^8 Faccinium I'mrayt, 89 laetevirens, 273 Vallota purpurea, 224, 275 Torenia asiitica. 617 Verdnica austriaca, 180 yilifirmim plicatum, 85 Viscaria oculita, 180 oculita spleniiens, 426 Washirigt&iiia gigintea, 388 AVfigcliQ grauiiillora, 187 rosea, 131 Xanthoxylum fraxlneum, 203 Zinnia aurea, 87 elegans, 425 LIST OF FRUITS. APPLES. Allen's Hybrid, 469, 477 Rogers's Hybrids, 470 Baldwin, 282 ,438 Barbarossa, 464 465. 476 Royal Muscadine, 33,465 Bough, 281 Bidwell's Seedling, 447 Smith's Sweetwater, 33 Duchesse d'Oldenburg, 281 Black Chester, 34 StilLman's Sweetwater, 33 Gravenstein, 281 ,438 Grape of Sonora, 470 Sweetwater, 34 Holden Pippin, 281 Mammoth, 78 Syrian, 34 Hubbardston Nonsuch, 282 Monukka, 465 Thomson's New Muscat, 541 King, 438 Bowood Muscat, 79 Trebiana, ,447, 542 King of Apples, 106 Brackett's Seedling, 497 Trentham Black, 464, 465 Mother, 281 Burckhardt's Amber Cluster, Tynningham Muscat 79 Porter, 281 33 Union Village, 470 Queening, 106 Prince, 36,465 White Nice, 466 Rhode Island Greening, 282 Catawba, 5, 6, 471 Jeddo, 470 Roxbury Russet, 282 Chasselas Vibert, 33,561 Lists of, 33. 34. 465 Summer Peannain, 106 Chavourish, 36 Tolman Sweeting, 212 Champion Hamburgh Muscat, ■Williams, 281 80, 541 NECTARINES. "Winter Peannain, 106 Clinton, 98 Down ton. 853 List of 12 varieties, 282 Concord. 5 283, 284 Due du Telliers, 663 List of, tor Worcester Co. Crevelling Grape, 446 Early Newiugton, 109 Mass., 280 Delaware, 5, 98 Diaua, 5, 128, 129, 284, 469 Fairchild's Early, 353 283, 470 Hardwicke Seedling, 169,353 Early Muscat, 79 Hunt's Tawny, 353 APRICOTS. kienzheini. 33 Stauwick, 363 Breda, 353 White Malvasia, 33 Violette llatrve, 363 Kaisha, 215 350 Ellen, 498, 606 List of. 353 Large Early, 350 Foster's "White Seedlin g, 34 Moorpark, 350 353 Frankentbal, 542 Red Masculine, 350 Golden Hamburgh, 35 ,99,128, PEACHES. 448, 4( 4, 559 Acton Scott, 169,351 Hartford ProHflc, 5, 98, 283, •169 Admiral Jaune, '851 CHERRIES. Isabella, 5, C , 9y, 284 Belle Banco, 168, 352 Belle d'Orleans, 319 LadyDowne's Seedling, 364, 465 Garde, 351, 363 Bigarreau , 319 Logan, 469 Bounlinc, 351,353 Nupolcon, 319 Lydia, 49, 505 Chancellor, 169, 361, 363 Black Tartarian, 319 232 Mary, 498, 506 Desse Tardive, 351 Down ton. 319 Manhattan, 127, 128 Earlv Albert, 79 Duchess of Pallnau, 254 317 Maxatawny, 469 York, 169, 361 Early Black, 250 Mead's Seedling, 129, 218 Halo's Early, 179 Purple Guigno, 319 Mottled, 498, 606 Lucca, 120 Elton, 319 Moiisca prota. 34 Malta, 169, 361 EmprePB Eugenie, 317 319 Muscat, 5,78 Noisette, 169, 861 Florenco, 319 Muscat of Alexandria, 79, 466, Petite iMignonno, 361 Governor Wood, Ouignc Grosso Noir, 319 542 Old (iixwse Mignoimo, 361.a'-)3 319 Hamburgh, 34, 99, 128, 139 Koine de Vergers, 168, 361 Rouge 319 Ottonel, 34 Komane, 107 Marguerite, 819 St. Laurent, 84 Stirling Castle, 866 Marl>rr:(! Pri'cncc, 319 Michigan, 606 List of, for an Orchard House, Kongo Tardive, 319 No. 1, 100 3{,1 May Duko, 232 317 319 4, 100 Knighfs Early Black, 232 319 15, 101 PEARS. LiBtH of, 232 317 319 Nortliern Muscadine, OjHirto, 469 470 Bartlett, 236, 437, 447, 4G1, 602, 632 IJuisin do Calabro, 466 Bergnniot, 1(h) GRAPES. Rebecca, 1)7, 127, 284, 469 Bergamotto d'Esperin , 363 Adiroiidac, 447, 405 498 540 Rouge du Provence, 406 Belle Lucrative, 437, 447 CONTENTS. Vll Beurr6 d'Anjou, 234, 236, 447, 461 Bosc, 447 Clairgeau, SB3, 447 Diel, 447 502, 509 Giffard, 234, 235 Hardy, 447, 461 Knox, 502 Langelier, 437 Kance, 502 Bezi Mai, 37 Brown Beurr6, 355 Buffum, 438 Catherine, 106 Lambr^, 513 Camille de Rohan, 37 Capiaumont, 502 Clapp, 504 Clapp's Favorite, 8,437 Charles Bassiner, 37 Gushing, 503 De Bonneau, 37 Dix, 447 , 503, 510 Doyenn6 Boussock, 438 Duchess of Angouleme, 44' 461, 502 Duchess de Brabant, 515 d'Hiver, 219 Easter Beurre, 461 Flemish Beauty, 234, 236, 282, 437, 447, 543 Forelle, Fulton, Glout Morceau, Harvard, Heathcot, Howell, Iron, Jenneting, Josephine de Malines, 502 503 437, 510 503 503 447 233 106 353 La-wrence, 234, 236, 447 Lewis, 504 Louise Bonne de Jersey, 233, 235, 353, 437, 447, 461, 532 Lycurgus, 218 Marie Louise, 502 Moore's, 447 Paradise d'Automne, 234, 236 rassG Colmar, 437, 502 Quince, 106 Richardson's Seedling, 8 Rostiezer, 234, 235 Seckol, 234, 236, 437, 447, 50:i Seedling, 497 Sheldon, 235, 236, 447 St. Ghislain, 234, 235 St James, 106 Swan's Orange, 447 Stevens's Genesee, 447 Urbaniste, 447, 461, 502, 509 Vicar of Winkficld, 438 Van Mons Leon Leclerc, 354 WilUams's Bonchretien, 502 Willermoz, 514 Wilkinson, 503 Winter Nelis, 235. 236, 353, 438, 447, 461, 509 Washington, 504 Lists of, 106, 447, 504 " Twelve best varie- ties for domestic use, 235, 237 List of Eight best varieties for market, 234 " for an orchard-house, 353 PLUMS. Coe's Golden Drop, Late Red, Damson, Denniston's Superb, Early Prolific, Yellow, Green Gage, JefEerson, 353 251 107 353 250, 251 251 250, 251, 353 250, 351, 353 Quetsche. 251, 353 Reiue Claude de Bavay, 251, 353 St. Etienne, 353 List of for anOrcliard-house,353 RASPBERRIES. Doolittle or Black Cup, Everbearing, 179 129 STRAWBERRIES. Admiral Dundas, 263, 361, 398 Ambrosia, 361 Austin Seedling, 398 l!artl(^tt, 7, 446 British Queen, 260 Chili, 261, 262 Cutler's Seedling, 470 Deptford Pine, 263 Downer, 7, 359, 470 Due de Malakoff, 361 Early Scarlet, 360 Emma, 7 Empress Eugenie, 398, 399 Eureka, 401 Fillmore, 7, 178 Ilovey's SeedUng, 178, 284, 359, 360, 397, 470 Ingram's Rifleman, 399 Iowa, 130 Jenny Lind, 284, 359 Jenney's Seedling, 284, 285 Jucunda, 860 Keens' Seedling, 7 La Constante, 178, 361, 398, 426, 470 La Sultana, 7 Lennig's White Pine, 400, 470 Longworth's Prolific, 359 Marguerite, 7, 426 Oscar, 361, 399 Omer Pacha, 397 Rivers's Eliza, 178, 361 Sir C. Napier, 178, 398 Sir Harry, 178 Triomphe de Gand, 176, 284, 359, 360, 363, 470 Victoria, 178, 360, 363 Walker's Seedling, 470 Wilson's Albany, 80, 176, 284, 359, 363, 397, 470 Wonderful, 361 List of, 7, 368 exhibited, 428 American, 428 European, 429 new, 400 LIST OF CORRESPONDENTS. An Amateur, An Ousider, ... Austin, Capt. W. R., . Brehaut, Rev- S. CoUins, 21. ( Chamberlain, Alfred, Clement, Mrs. Isaac, Courtis, Wm., Editor, 1, 33, 37, 49, 77, 85, 91 145, 176, 180, 186, 193, 217, 267, 273, 289, 325. 329, 337, 385, 396, 422, 433, 446, 458, 512, 522, 529, Flagg, Wilson, 15, 58, 102, 150, 342, 390. . 115, 250 ,97, 219, 359, 460, ,510. 200, ,439. 300, 498 204 507 157, 211, , 306, 348 64 130, 179 122 125, m, 241, 260, 378, 380, 481, 492, , 550, 554 245, 293, , 486, 544 Forney, M. Eugene, Hoadley, Geo., Hunnewell, H. H., Jacques, Geo., Kenrick, Wm., Kirtland, J. P., Kohler, Aug., Magee, J. B., Paul, William, Prince, Wm. R., Sargent, H. W., . Walsh, James, Wetherell, Leander, Weed, James, 81 218 371, 449 108, 280 504 125 128 45 544 400 94 230 402 510 Vlll CONTENTS. GENERAL INDEX. Annaals, Agapanthus, Propagating Arboricultural Notices, Agave. New, . Azaleas Begonias, Cactae, New Oannas and Caladiums, Carnations, Perpetual, or Tree, Cherries, and Persimmons in Ohio, Chinese Yam, .... Dahlias. The Prize Sorts of the Tear, Darwinian Theory, Evergreens, Remarks on, Ferns, Gold and Silver, . Flowers for Drv Ground, Floricultural Notices, 85, 186, 267, 325, 410, 522, 550 Fruit, Great ExJiihition of, . . . 541 Fruits, Glass Ilouses for, ... 42 Variation in, .... 543 Fuchsias. 277 Gardening, In-Door, 137, 169, 221,254,320. 366, 408, 452, 517, 556 Scientific, . . . . . 64 Gladioli, Culture of, ... . 560 Gladiolus. The, 180 Glendenning, li., Death of, . . . 565 Grapes, 97 Keeping, ... . 366 Growing on the Montangon Plan, . 36 New, 495, 504 from Australia, ... 78 Our Native, in Baltimore, . . 126 Report on, 33 Grape Vines, at the Royal Hort. Gardens, 464 Inarching, ..... 463 Young, and their Treatment, . 462 Half-Hours with the Old Authors, 58, 102, 150, 200, 245, 293, 342, 390, 439, 485. 534 Horticulture, Progress of, . . 1, 300, 498 Horticultural Hall, a Revelation from, Operations 204 July, . August, September, October, November, December, . January, 47 February, 95 March, 143 April, 191 May, 239 .(une, 287 Hyacinth, The, Insects, On the Value of, Ixia-M, Culture of, . (.iiichenaliiLA, . Lily. Var. from .lapan, Mignolias, Mice, .Simple Preventive from the Ravages of, 280 Mushroom Culture 229 Mi(?nonetto from Cuttings, . . . 229 Obituary, 14,407,561 Orange Grove, How to Form, . . 3S'J Orchard- Houses, SHO OrchiirdH, 49 335 382 430 479 527 567 644 15 189 43 187, 380, 427, 466 333 Orchard-House Culture, . . . 481 Redivirus, 280 The, 489 Orchids, Materials Best for the Growth, 227 Pseonies The 337 Panipixs Grass, Large, Peaches without Glass, Pears, Description of Select Varieties, Kxhibition of Fine, New, Pelargonium. The, The Fancy, .... Plants, American, Soil for, . Japanese, Exhibition of. More New, from Japan. . New, The Production of. Progress of Breeding of, our Hardy Herbaceous, 3? 378, 422, 458, 554 Pomology, International Congress of, 492 Pomological Gossip, 33, 77, 12 >, 176. 217, 260, 359, 396, 446, 492, 540 Reid. William, Death of, . . . 564 Rhododendrons and New Evergreens, Re- marics on, .... and Azaleas, Rhododendron, American, Sikldm, under Glass, Roses Summer, Society, American Pomological, 560 510 512 447 410 419 278 328 85. 186. 273 . 145 193 91, 137, 329, 371 289 402 276 241 426 Brooklyn {N. Y.) Horticultural Cambridge Ildrticultural, Cincinnati Ibirtiiultural, Illinois .State ilin-ticultural, . New York Horticultural, Pcnusylvaniu Uorticultural, . Worcester Horticultural, Miissachusetts Horticultural 381, 433, 467, 4i«, 625 232 280 565 141 141 141 141 232, 280 46, 142. 190. 237. 328, S34, 429, 473, 526, 566 Annual Exhibition, . . 474 Meeting, . . 524, 526 Finance Committee, Report of, 237 Opening of the Hall, . . 334 Strawberry, The 77, 359 Profitable Culture, .... 363 Strawberries, American, in Washington, 178 Exhibition of, .... 428 in Missouri, 176 New 3!)6, 400 Suburban Visits, 4t>0 The Lesson of the Year, ... 629 Tomato dc Laye, 219 Tree, Cultivation of, . . . 465 Trees, Fruit. Cordon Training of, 21, 69, 115, 157, 211, 2,50, 306, 348 Pear, on the Wine Glass Pattern, . 507 Transplanting ('i-rtain Oruameiitjil, 108 Ilaniiness of Koreign. . . 385 Tree Wounds, and Mcuns of Healing them, 81 Vegetables, Now, Work on, . . 467 Winter Scenery, 1,S0 Window Gardoulng, .... 661 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. THE PROGRESS OF HORTICULTURE. In the present aspect of our country it would be idle to claim a very favorable condition of horticultural art. Like other arts, it can only continue in a flourishing state in profound peace. The people must not be engrossed with public duties ; they must not be burdened with taxes ; they must not be constantly stirred with exciting news ; either one, and especially all of these, are injurious to horticultural progress. Public exigencies require almost undivided atten- tion, and it is not in the power of a young nation, hitherto unexampled in its prosperity, to quietly pursue the peaceful arts, when its very existence is at stake. Agriculture, which feeds and clothes, may and will receive a renewed impetus, from the very nature of the circumstances, when it has to feed and supply the necessities of immense armies. Horti- culture, on the contrary, furnishes us with the luxuries of life, and these, at such a time, can and will be, to a great extent, dispensed with, while the embellishment of our gar- dens and the decoration of our grounds will be neglected, till wealth shall flow in its usual channels, and prosperity and confidence be wholly restored. Just emerging from a panic which had shaken the indus- trial resources of our country, we had begun upon the up- ward current, when the present crisis opened. A rich har- vest, a good market, and increased energy in every depart- ment of industry were overtaken with the derangement of all our national affairs. Much had been commenced, and the present year was to show the result of renewed exertions in horticultural pursuits. But these hopes were doomed to dis- appointment ; and though we submit willingly to the ordeal, VOL. XXYIII. — NO. I. 1 2 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. it cannot be denied that we must wait patiently for better times before horticulture will receive its due share of atten- tion. We do not say this despairingly ; on the contrary, our people are so energetic and enthusiastic that it will be but a temporary halt, to be renewed with greater intensity, as the I'emote cause of all our impediments to progress is forever removed from our land. We record, as heretofore, the state of the weather for the year. January commenced with mild weather, and a light snow of three inches on the 3d, and the thermometer at 32°. The 5th was cold again, and the temperature continued to fall till the 13th, when it reached 12° below zero, and the 14th, 4" below. The next week was milder, and the last week cold and variable, with six inches of snow. February opened more mild, with the temperature at 40° on the 2d, and rain, whicli carried off the snow. But on the 7th occurred one of those sudden changes which are peculiar •to our latitude. At noon the temperature was 45° ; a fresh breeze then set in from the north, which increased almost to a gale ; the mercury fell rapidly, and at midnight it was 8° below zero, and at sunrise on the 8th, 17° below, a fall of 62° in twelve hours. The 17th was very cold, the tempera- ture being 4° below zero, at noon. The 10th it was mild again, with a warm rain on the 12th, and a storm on the loth, with thunder and lightning. A few cold days succeed- ed, and the end of tlie montli was fine and warm. The commencement of March was a continuation of the mild weather. On the 3d the temperature was 50° ; the 7th it was cool again, with tlic mercury at 8°, and tlic week end- ing the IGth was cool, with five or six inches of snow. The 18th the temperature fell to 2°, and the 21st was the severest storm of the winter, ten inclics of snow having fallen in about twelve hours, much drifted, and causing much injury to trees. The remainder of the month was fine and mild, and most of the snow had disappeared. April opened with another snow storm of nearly equal severity to tliat in Marcli ; ten inches fell, and so mucli drift- ed as to block up tlic roads. Three inches more fell on the JANUARY. 6 3d, tlie wind oast, and tlio temperature 82° The weather continued cold and frosty up to the 13th, wlien it was warm, with the mercury 62" at noon. On the i6th it was cold again, which continued to the 23d, when tlie first really spring weather set in. May day was showery and cool, and on the 3d there was a heavy frost, with the temperature as low as 26°. On the 6th it was again 27°, Avith a heavy white frost, rather unusual at this la,te season, hut vegetation was so backward it sustained no injury. On the 6th was an easterly storm. It was warm and showery up to the 18th ; it was then cool again, with a slight frost on the 22d ; the 25th it rained ; the 26tli was the first warm day, with the temperature at 70°. June opened warm and fine, with the temperature at 80°. The 3d was rainy, and the following week cool, cloudy, and wet. The 12th was warm, and the remainder of the month was uniformly fair and warm, with only one showery day, and the highest range of the temperature 84°. The first week of July was fine, hot, and dry, the tem- perature being 90° on the 4th, 91° on the 5th, 6th and 7th, and 100° on the 8th. The first rain for nearly a month fell on the 20t]i. It was then cooler, with showers, to the close of the month. August commenced with a warm week, the temperature varying from 80° to 90°. It was then showery and cooler, with an easterly storm on the 13th, tlie temperature being as low as 55°. Tlie remainder of the month was warm and fine, with a few very light 'showers. The beginning of September was warm and beautiful, with the temperature from 70° to 80°. The 11th was rainy and cooler. It was then fine and warm again up to the 22d. The remainder of the month was cooler, without rain and without frost. The lowest temperature was 39°, on the 28th. October commenced almost as warm as September. On the 6th the temperature was 78° ; the 8th was cool and rainy. It was then variable and warm again, with light showers. On the 22d the mercury fell to 32°, with a very slight frost, and on the 25th it reached 25°, when all tender vegetation was killed. The few remaining days of the month were cool, with light frosts. 4 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Xovembcr continued pleasant and mild, with light frosts ; but the temperature did not fall so low as in October, during the entire month. The temperature was very uniform, vary- ing from 26° to 32°, in the morning. On the 25th snow fell to the depth of three inches, but with the rain of the 29th it disappeared. The month of December was cool, though warmer than the average of that season. On the 4th the temperature was 15° ; it was then warm again. On the 12tli the mercury fell to 14°, and up to the present time (the 20th) it has been unusually mild, with the ground as open as in October. Though a careful examination of the above summary of the weather, since April, will not disclose anything that could be unfavorable to the growth and perfection of the fruit crop, with some few exceptions it has rarely been so light, and still more rarely, so ordinary. Apples were almost an entire failure, and pears were not a third of a crop. No plums, cherries, quinces, or peaches. Strawberries and raspberries were abundant and fine. Blackberries a failure, and very few grapes, but very good. This result was not, however, caused by the weather of the spring or summer. It was the severity of the winter, of the cold blast of February 7th, which destroyed nearly all the flower buds on every kind of tree exposed to it, and in many cases the trees themselves. Peaches were severely injured, and old or unthrifty trees quite killed. Ciierrics presented a sad appearance all summer, and the future recovery of many large old trees is doubtful. Even the leaf buds were so much injured that they put out but little foliage during the season. Some cultivators have supposed that this destruction was owing to the severe early frost of October 1 ; but the fact that blackl)erries, raspl)erries, and grapes, which were not covered till November, bore an abundant crop, shows conclusively that such was not the case. And wo have heai'd of instances wbcro liml)s of peach trees, that were accidentally covered willi snow, licaring good cr()j)S. Anotlicr fact more convinc- ing tban all is, tliat peach trees, taken u{) in our grouiuls as late as November, and put into grape houses, produced quite a number of j)eachcs. JANUARY. 5 111 fact the summer was very favorable, though rather dry, and had tlie winter not caused so much destruction, the fruit crop would have been very large. The inferior quality of tlie fruit must be attributed to the same cause which killed the buds, for undoubtedly those which escaped were more or less enfeebled, and the trees received a shock which affected both their vigor and vitality. Hence the few fruits which were produced on large trees were not so fine as the heavier crops on the same trees in 1860. The result of such experience is to warn us of the necessity of providing shelter, and of secur- ing everything that can be protected from the severity of our winters. HORTICULTURE. The causes that we have just alluded to severely affected the development of more information in regard to grape culture, which has become one of the leading features of pomological interest. But, to make up in part for the loss of many vines, the season was more than usually favorable, and many varieties, that liave not fully matured their fruit in the latitude of New England, for several years, were produced in tlie highest perfection. Even the Isabella and Catawba ripened their crop. The Delaware, Concord, Hartford Prolific, Diana, &c., were exhibited in all parts of the country of unusual excellence. The vines did not mildew, and the absence of wet weather, with the warm and beautiful October, combined to make the last year one of the most favorable for grapes within the remembrance of cultivators. Our recent article on our native grapes, ("Vol. XXVII. p. 529,) leaves us little to say here. Since, however, it was writ- ten, we have noticed that other writers substantiate the opin- ion we expressed. The Concord is particularly praised. Mr. Thompson of Ohio, in giving an account of a visit to Mr. Knox of Pittsburg, Pa., states that "he cannot speak in terms of too high commendation of it. The vines of all ages are a perfect picture of health. A large number that had been two years planted were bearing their first crop of fruit — the clusters large, the berries perfect and thoroughly ripened, and the flavor, in my estimation, if not as good as other va- rieties, at least superior to Isabella. The vines averaged one 6 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. dollar each, from the sale of fniit, which readily commanded twenty to twenty-five cents per pound, in the Pittsburg mar- ket ; while Isabellas and Catawbas (unripe of course) were a drug at six to eight cents." He also notices a row of four- year old Concords, which was covered with the most mag- nificent clusters he had ever seen, " reminding one of well- grown Black Hamburgs, though from tlieir jet black color and covering of rich bloom, they eclipsed that celebrated variety in beauty of appearance." The interest in exotic grape culture rather increases than diminishes with the English and French cultivators. Many new seedlings have been produced, most of which will be found enumerated in our Pomological Gossip for the year. Some of these possess great merit, and it appears now that they will be likely to take the place of tlie old varieties which have been so long the favorites of cultivators. This will be a slow process, because we have much to learn in regard to all the characteristics of these new sorts, and their adaptation to ordinary treatment. There is certainly no rea- son why new sorts, containing the combination of qualities so desirable, sho\ild not be produced; and though we would ad- vise caution in their introduction, we would, on the contrary, give them a full and fair trial, and, if they stand the ordeal, reject such of the old sorts as are surpassed by the new : old prejudices should not be allowed to warp our judgment, and prevent us from availing ourselves of the most valuable grapes. The strawberry does not cease to be an interesting subject of remark, and we have given our views in regard to their culture, and the peculiarities of several varieties. It is yet by no means exhausted. Since the appearance of our last article we have had occasion to look up some information, and we have been surprised to find what has been claimed as recent discoveries are in fact of rather ancient date. Wo may have occasion to refer to them hereafter. Our American cultivatiu-s having for twenty-five years zealously followed the cultiviilion of seedlings without corresponding results, tlio Belgians and French are directing their attention to the subject, and tb(;y appear to hav(> bocn very ^^uccesisful, as the JANUARY. 7 La Constante of De Jonghe proves. Probably it will be some time, if not years, before another variety will be raised that will excel it. We have given it, with all the foreign kinds, a fair trial, and it alone possesses all the qualities that make a popular berry. It appears to hold the same relation to the Continental sorts that Hovey's Seedling does to American kinds, or Keens' Seedling to English ones. The late Belgian sorts, such as Marguerite, La Sultanne, Emma, &c., whatever their fruit may be, have not the constitutional excellences of La Constante, which alone can make them favorites. We consider it a remarkable production. The Bartlctt, Fillmore, Downer, and other new American kinds, thougli undoubtedly very good, do not come up to the standard of excellence. Orchard-house culture is still attracting attention, both abroad and at home. Mr. Rivers, the champion of the sys- tem, has found an able opponent in a correspondent of the Gardeners' Chronicle, who ventilates rather freely their alleged importance. If there are such doubts among intelli- gent English cultivators, how much more applicable are they in our climate, where all the best hardy fruits are grown in perfection in the open air. The last winter proved the value of these structures. In many instances the peach trees were injured almost as much as those in the open air. On this subject, Mr. Walsh, Mr. Hubbard's excellent gardener, takes exceptions to some of our late remarks, and asserts that we were mistaken in stating he lost his crop. We shall publish his communication in another number. We can only say that Mr. Hunnewell lost his crop in his cold peach house, showing the inefficiency of houses without the means of some warmth. Mr. Alfred Chamberlain takes up the culture of fruits as ornamental objects, just as we cultivate flowers or plants. By a peculiar form of wire basket, for which he has secured a patent, lie raises all the different varieties very successfully, as he has stated in his communication. Cultivating fruit in moss is no new thing; but the wire basket is new, and it appears well intended to make fruit culture doubly attract- ive from their ornamental aspect. The error we make is in 8 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. copying from English cultivators what is suitable for tlieir climate, rather than adapting any species of culture to our own. Desirous, however, to encourage every attempt at fruit culture, whether in the orchard house or open air, we have commenced the publication of a little treatise adapted to either, by an Enghsh Amateur, who has studied fruit grow- ing on the Continent, and knows the obstacles to success in his own climate, freely admitting that in France they know little or nothing of fruit culture under giass, so favorable is the climate, and so much like our own. We can well imag- ine the comfort which a good dry orchard house must offer to the enthusiastic amateur, who could rarely become one if he had to labor in the open air in Great Britain. In a climate where a rousing fire is really comfortable in xVugust, as it was when we visited England, the warm atmos])hcre of an orchard house must be a most agreeable place of resort and labor. The introduction of new fruits has been somewhat limited the last year or two, while the growth of seedlings continues unabated. In pears some excellent acquisitions have been made in the Clapp's Favorite, Richardson's Seedling, and some others ; indeed, our stock of American pears is becom- ing quite extended. But few new foreign kinds have fruited the last year. Mr. Rivers has produced some new peaches from our American sorts, but tlicir merit is yet undecided. Our Pomological Gossip records, we believe, ev,ery variety worthy of notice. ^ , FLORICULTURE. If the exhibitions of our hoi-ticultural societies arc to be taken as an index of our progress in plant culture, those of the past year would not only show increased interest in this department, and an earnest dc!^ire for the possession of the newest j)roductions, but a higlier condilion and excellence of growth : in fact, our cultivators are r;ii)i(lly coming up to the re(iuii"emcnls of the English exhibitions, and there is no doubt they wcnihl, in every respect, equal tliem, were tho same honors t(j be (jbtain(3d. If they do not accomplish this JANUARY. 9 mucli it will bo because tlie proper CDCouragement is not held out, while the demand is made for its fulfilment. The day has passed when amateurs and gardeners would deem it sufficient honor to receive a barren prize. A few very pretty plants, upon which no particular pains were spent in their culture, would bo willingly carried to an exhibition for the double purpose of sustaining a young society, and foster- ing a taste for plants. But when the objects, which were once so remarkable, with the progress of taste and science of culture, have become too insignificant to attract attention, and tlie highest skill of the most intelligent gardeners re- quired to produce magnificent specimens, a just recognition of such skill is demanded, not in the shape of a simple report, but in medals or prizes which rank in value with the labor displayed. So well established has this fact become, that should any leading society, in Great Britain or France, at- tempt to get up an exhibition on the pioneer system of thirty years ago, it would signally fail. The London Horticultural Society's shows at Chiswick were ruined in experiments in this way, and the Society itself nearly shattered by the falling off in this its chief source of income. While it was lessening the prizes, and striking out many popular flowers, the Royal Botanic Society and Crystal Palace were augmenting theirs ; the result was, that the Chiswick shows had neither competitors nor spectators, while the others were overrun with both. We deem it of vital importance to every society in the country, that would maintain a flourishing condition, to do everything possible to make the prizes worthy of competition, and in so doing demand that the objects shall be worthy the reward. In anticipation of the general taste for ornamental foliaged plants, we have endeavored to gather all the information which would lead to their introduction and treatment, both tender and half-hardy. However opinions may vary in regard to the permanent popularity of the exotic kinds, there is no doubt that such sorts, as can be made valuable in the open air, will continue to be ranked among the most effective and decora- tive objects of the garden. The extent to which these are used in Parisian gardening we have already noticed, (Vol. 10 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. XXYII. p. 520.) It is undeniable that there has been too much of the same thing in tlie verbena, the petunia, the ge- ranium, and other bedding plants. They are all different shades of tlie same habit and growth. Variety is necessary, and this the foliaged plants supply, while their massive growth is much more in keeping with the grander features of lawn and trees, in the near vicinity of which the old bedding plants look tame and simple. Without rejecting tlie one, or over- estimating the other, we would advocate the introduction of botli in their proper place. The rose, which should be considered tl:>e most beautiful of all garden flowers, attracts unusual attention abroad ; why it is so neglected here we are at loss to imagine. It is true our winters are rather severe for many varieties, but still there are so many that are sufficiently hardy, that there is no ex- cuse on tliis score for their neglect. Can it be that we do not appreciate the rose ? and that our taste is so perverted that a bed of verbenas possesses more attractions than a plantation of roses ? We cannot believe it ; and yet the very limited way in which they are introduced to our gardens, or displayed at our exhibitions, shows a sad neglect. At one time the rose slug was the scourge of the plants ; but with the certain and well-known remedy it ceases to be less injurious than many other insects. Let us hope that increased attention will be given to the rose, tliat our horticultural societies will take it under their especial patronage, and our gardens be- come as redolent of tlicir beauty as those of the French and English cultivators. WMiat, indeed, can vie with the h)vely blossoms of Jules Margottin, General Jacqueminot, Louis Peronney, Shakspeare, ^Madame Ilai-dy, Boula de Nanteuil, Baron no Provost, and other i-oses which anybody can grow. To pass over the ghuliohis and lilies, in our annual sum- mary, would Ite to ignoic two of our now most ],opular plants. Whatever may Ixi the chiinis ol' various flowers, they (ill a greater space of tlit; floral year than any other two classes of plants. From July to frost they together reward the cultiva- tor with an uiiiutcrniptccj display of the most varied, ex- quisiti; and IVagi'aiit lilossonis. 'I'he tulip is remarkable for its infinite variety of coloring, hut the gladiolus seems lo excel JANUARY. 11 it. The newer seedlings, so far from being reproductions, sport into the most bizarre tints, and luililce other ilowers, many of the seedhngs of which are often worthless, tlicse all appear to be beautiful. The Japan lilies accompany and fol- low the gladiolus to the end of summer, and what they lack in variety they more than make up in richness of coloring, elegance of form, and fragrance ; and their hardiness, free growth, and easy cultivation, adapt them to the million. The other lilies, too, are invaluable ornaments of the garden. The longiflorum, with its large snowy, trumpet-shaped flow- ers ; the Brownii, of the same form, but reddish tinted on the outside ; the atrosanguineum and its hybrids, with their blood-colored shades ; the superbum, with its red and yellow spotted blossoms ; the chalcedonicum, with its scarlet, and the philadelphicum, with its orange flowers, are all deservedly attractive and fine. Other flowers and plants we might enumerate, among which are the Rhododendron and Azalea, tlie Pseony and herbaceous perennials. The first two are becoming more generally known, but they are far from being so extensively planted as they should be. No shrubs afford so much grati- fication as these ; as specialities, to be planted in tastefully arranged groups, in properly prepared soil, or introduced in masses in the shrubbery, or near the flower garden, they form the most effective objects ; the brilliancy and variety of the Azaleas, with the profuse clusters of the Rhododendrons, amid their broad deep green foliage, always delighting the lover of beautiful plants. An addition to our hardy shrubs, of the greatest value, is the well-known Scotch Heath, which has been found partially naturalized in our climate. Henceforth it may be extensively introduced into plantations of Rhododen- drons, Azaleas, and Kalmias, succeeding them in its bloom, and continuing the beauty of a group till late in August. Our herbaceous perennial plants have been altogether too much neglected. Entirely hardy, requiring but little atten- tion, their flowers expanding from April to October, they should receive more attention. To give as much informa- tion concerning them as possible, we have from time to time presented such articles as would interest the cultivator. 12 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Our own collection is now extensive, embracing some two hundred or more species, and we intend to bring a few of the less known and hardier kinds to more immediate notice by descriptions and engravings in the present volume, the first of which will be found in another page. If these shall induce their more extensive culture we shall feel that we liave accomplished a good work. TVe need not allude to tlie new plants of the year, as a careful reading of our Floricultural Notices will show what these are. We should not, however, omit to notice the Double Zinnia as a very great acquisition, whicli, when brought to greater perfection, as it undoubtedly will be, will form, next to the Aster, one of the most showy autumual flowers. ARBORICULTURE. The introduction of the finer shrubs and trees, and the choice evergreens, though slow, is constantly increasing. Wijh the exception, however, of the more common kinds, these are confined to the grounds of a few amateur cultiva- tors. We regret that the taste for coniferous trees does not increase more rapidly. Tbo winter of 18G0 and 18G1 was a severe test for the newer kinds, but it lias settled beyond doubt the hardy character of nearly all that have been added to our collections ; such as did not resist the cold being only adapted to pot culture, and protection in winter, all attempts to acclimatize them must be a failure. We regret to learn that ]\fr. Sargent, of Fishkill, N. Y., lost a few of his more beautiful specimens, among them the Torreya taxifolia, after having attained the heiglit of eight or ten feet. Mr. Hun- newell's trees generally looked remarkably well the past autumn, and their progress henceforth will undoubtedly be rapid. Wc intend to give a list of every species and variety which has proved entii'cly hardy in his grounds. To give our readers an opportunity to a])preciatc more fully the liurdy Evergreens, both as respects their ornamental char- acter, and their importance for shelter as well as their value for timl)cr, our correspondent Evelyn has presented the re- sults of his researclics among the latest published works ujioii Hk; sulij<^ct, c(;ml)iii(Ml willi his own cxjxM-icMU'c, and <:;illu'ring JANUARY. 13 from the best sources the most cpmpleto information regard- ing their growth and cultivation. Many acres of our New England soil have been seeded down to the Pine, and we see no reason why thousands of acres of waste lands mny not be covered with a growth of young trees, which in tw^enty or thirty years would render them a great source of income. Gradually the supply of timber is becoming less and less, and forests remote from the seaboard, with the great cost of transportation, now yield the supply. So important do we think this subject is, that we should be glad to see some aid given by the State, in the way of a bounty for the largest and best plantations. In this way, in a few years, large quantities of the best timber could be readily supplied at reasonable prices. LANDSCAPE GARDENING. But little progress has been made in Landscape Gardening recently. The projected Baltimore Park has been vigorously commenced by our late correspondent, Mr. H. Daniels, and from a notice forwarded us appears to be so far completed as to have a portion of it open to the public. Little else appears to be required than laying out roads and walks, clearing open- ings, and thinning out the trees, which already cover a large portion of the Park. We have heard little of the progress made in the great New York Central Park the last year, but presume the work has been vigorously pushed, as it must necessarily be, to complete it in a reasonable time. Li the dearth of general improvement we must defer ex- tended remarks until another opportunity. HORTICULTURAL LITERATURE. At no period, during the last twenty years, has there been so few gardening works issued as in that of 1861. Indeed, we cannot name any very prominent book. The Parlor Gar- dener, a little manual, has appeared, giving some brief direc- tions for the treatment of in-door plants. The Transactions of the American Pomological Society were issued in a neat form, creditable to the Society, and make a volume of 260 pages. 14 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTTJEE. The yearly publications of the New York State Agricultural Society, and the Agriculture of Massachusetts, have regularly appeared, and are volumes of great interest. Until more prosperous times our cultivators will have to rely on the periodical literature of the day for the latest information upon horticultural science. OBITUARY. In addition to the names of those already noticed, we record the following, who have deceased during the year : — J. E. Rauch, of Brooklyn, N. Y., one of the most intelligent and active gardeners in that city. Mr. Rauch was born in Bremen, in 1818, where he studied medicine. He visited this country v>'itli the intention of engaging in botanical studies, and after two or three voyages to South America, where he was taken dangerously sick, he returned to Brooklyn, where he devoted himself to the cultivation of plants and flowers, especially the rare and choicer kinds. He was energetic in organizing the now flourishing Horticultural Society of Brook- lyn, and contributed extensively to its exhibitions. Kind and generous to a fault, his loss will be deeply regretted. Professor J. G. C. Leiimann of Hamburg, died on the 12th of February, 1860, in his 68th year. He was a botanist of note, and the author of many scientific works. Dr. J. P. Klotzsch, keeper of the Royal Herbarium, at Berlin, died in November last, at the age of 55 years. As a systematic botanist, he worked industriously; his monograph of the Bcgoniaccas, and his papers on Eupliorbiaca), are examples of labor. Louis Db Vilmorin, one of the eminent seedsmen of Paris, died in March last, at the age of 44 years. M. Yilmorin was a frequent contributor to the Revue Horticole, and other journals of Paris, and rendered essential service to the cause of horticultural science. John E. Lio Contf/, formerly a Major in tlic United Slates Topographical EnginiHU's, died at Philadelphia last winter. He was a zealous contributor to botanical, zoological, and cntoniol()gi(;ul science. Major Le Contil resided in (leorgia for a li^iig jii'.iiod, lull Ihe latter years of his life wrw [cissimI in Pliiladidj)liia. 11 is first contribution to Botany was a ('atalogue of the plants growing spontaneously on the island of New York. JANUAEY. 15 ON THE VALUE OF CERTAIN INSECTS. BY WILSON FLAGG. We arc in the habit of regarding all insects, except those which like the bee and the silkworm are directly profitable to lis, as pests that ought to be exterminated from the face of the earth. Yet insects of every species undoubtedly subserve an important purpose in the economy of nature; and the evil that comes from them is chiefly due to their excessive multiplication. Birds would equally become a pest if they were multiplied beyond a certain extent. The difference between the two cases is, that birds are so easily destroyed, and offer so many temptations to the gunner, on account of the value of their flesh for food, and the sport which the pxirsuit of them affords to young men and boys, that it is difficult to prevent the most valuable species from being ex- terminated. Insects, on the contrary, are so minute, their habits are so secret, and their abodes, in the early stages of their existence, so concealed ; they multiply so rapidly, and are taken with so much difficulty, that we are obliged to use every conceivable method to prevent their consuming all the products of the earth. Their very minuteness becomes their protection. My present object, therefore, is not to say anything in favor of the protection of insects, because they are perfectly safe in spite of all that can be done for their destruction. I wish simply to point out their general usefulness in the economy of nature, and the importance of certain species, by destroy- ing and keeping in check the multiplication of other inju- rious species. Of the useful insects, which are made articles of commerce it is needless to say anything. Nature has not only employed birds and certain small quadrupeds and reptiles, to preserve the insect race from over-multiplication ; but there are also numerous predatory tribes of insects that feed, as it were, upon their own kind. The fly, called the miisca aplii ivora, lives upon tlie tree- louse ; the hornet and wasp-fly upon the musca-aphidivora ; the dragon-fly upon the hornet and the wasp-fly, the spider 16 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. upon tlie dragon-flj, and all indeed have some enemies in some particular species. The monoculvs, or water-flea, de- lights in putrid waters ; the gnat eats the water-flea, and the frog eats the gnat. Many insects at once promote tlieir own good and that of other animals. Thus gnats lay their eggs in stagnant and putrid waters, and the grubs that spring from these eggs clear them of all putrefaction. This will easily appear, if any one will make the experiment, by filling two vessels with putrid water, leaving the grubs in the one and taking them all out of the other. He will soon discover that the water containing the grubs has become purified and free from stench, while the water that contains no grubs remains foetid. There are beetles which in summer reduce the droppings of cattle to a mere friable loam, which, like saw dust, is easily scattered over the soil by the feet of men and animals. This not only fertilizes the soil, but prevents the herbage that lies under these heaps from being destroyed. There are other insects or worms that cause a portion of the hardest rocks to be converted into soil. Testaceous worms have the power of thus eating away the substance of rocks. That species of shell fish called the razorshell, bores through stones in Italy, and hides itself within them, thus assisting nature in dis- solving the rock, and changing it into profitable loam. The people wlio cat them arc obliged to break the stones in order to obtain them. The cochlea, a kind of snail that lives upon craggy rocks, eats and bores through the chalky hills, as worms do through wood. There are not many })crsons who would subscribe to the views of Professor Biberg, who says, " The cateritillar or grub of the Phahena calamitosa, although it feeds upon grasses, to the great destruction of them in the meadows, yet it seems to be formed in order to keep a due i)roportion between these and other plants ; for grasses, when loft to grow freely, in- crease to that degree that they exclude all otlicr ])lants, whicii would consequently be extirpated unless this insect sometimes prepared a place for them. Ilence always more species of {)lants appear in those ])laces where this caterpillar JANUARY. 17 has laid waste the pastures the preceding year than at any- other time. Gcduer thinks that insects may be considered valuable, if for no other reason, because they nourish and support the singing- birds. " Those minute insects," says Gedner, "called tree-lice^ that live upon the branches of trees, are devoured by flies, cochineals and golden-eyes, in their first state, and many small birds feed upon them ; and these not only delight us with tlieir fine songs, but afford us most delicate food. The nettle is a small plant which is scarcely eaten by any domestic animal ; but the Autlior of nature has allotted to it more feeders than to almost any otlier plant, such as butterflies, moths, weevils, chermes, which devour it almost entirely ; and these insects are a prey to many birds which could by no means immediately live upon the plant. Minute aquatic worms, and these, in no small number, are eaten by the larger, and these are eaten by the fishes and aquatic birds, and these latter by us ; and beside food, these birds supply us with the most delicate feathers to repose ourselves upon. It would be tedious to enumerate all the mediate advantages which we obtain from the most contemptible creatures." The same author remarks further, "We are ready enough to put a due value on the larger animals, but many look on the minute tribe of insects, rather created to torment than to be useful to mankind. We grant that they are very trouble- some to us. But is, therefore, all care about them to be given up? By no means. On the contrary, we ought to contrive means to get rid of them, that they may not destroy both us and our possessions. This cannot be brought about, unless we know their nature ; when that is known we shall more easily find out remedies against them. " The use of insects has been sufficiently explained by De Geer, in an oration before the Academy of Sciences at Stockholm. Another of my fellow-students has undertaken to explain what damages insects of various kinds do us ; and another now is actually employed in showing what kinds of insects live upon every plant. This makes it unnecessary to enlarge upon the mischiefs done by insects. I will only, in a few words, mention that we shall never be able to guard onr- VOL. XXVIII. — NO. I. 2 18 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. selves against insects but by means of other insects. For as we make use of dogs and other beasts in hunting down stags, boars and other animals, which do us much damage in our fields and meadows ; or as hawks may be bred up to assist us in taking other birds, so also we might make use of the fiercer kinds of insects, in order to get the better of the rest of tliese troublesome animals. We shall never be able to drive bugs out of our houses, before we introduce otlier insects that will devour them. " We have no easier method of destroying gnats and flies, which cause iis so much disturbance, than by providing our- selves with libellulae, that devour them. We often find our largest trees entirely stripped of their leaves by caterpillars of the moth kind. But when we search for them, we find they are sometimes eaten up by the larger kind of carabi, called sycophantm. Hence we may learn that there is no remedy more efficacious in our gardens, when leaves, flowers and fruits are almost every year destroyed by those cater- pillars, than gathering and preserving the above mentioned carabi^ till they lay their eggs; and then placing them at the roots of trees, in rotten wood, till they are hatched. And thus we should effectually guard our trees from these inhos- pitable guests." Nearly a century has elapsed since the paragraph above quoted was originally published ; still the public has not acted upon the advice which the author has given. Though the expediency of such a practice is extremely doubtful, I liave never yet heard of any series of experiments made to test its practicability. Tliough wc know tluit millions of injurious insects are daily killed and devoured by other in- sects, it would not seem to be an easy task to make use of the predatory tribes in such a manner as to derive much Ijcncfit from their services. I will, however, enumerate some other species which arc prcdaccous ; and as ray information is compiled from various sources, I shall probably repeat several facts more than onco. Among the beetles, some of which arc very destructive to vegetation, are several prcdaccous species ; such are the tigcr- bectlcs, the ground beetles, lady birds, that habitually prey JANUARY. 19 upon caterpillars, plant-lice, and many other injurious insects. Dragon-flics prey upon gnats and mosquitos; and the larvae of day-flics, of May-flies or cadis-worms, and of scniblians, all of which live in the water, devour aquatic insects. The lace-winged flics, in their larva state, live wholly on plant- lice. Caterpillars and several other destructive insects are de- stroyed by enemies witliin their own bodies, such as the larvae of the Ichneumon flies. Some of these flies are very small and confine their attacks to the eggs of other insects. They puncture them, lay their own eggs in them, and the grubs produced from them live upon the substance of the eggs in which they were deposited. Wood-wasps, and several kinds of sand-wasps, mud-wasps and solitary wasps are also predaceous ; providing their young with other insects for food. Ants also seize and destroy a great many insects. The paper-making wasps feed their tender offspring with the softer parts of other insects, which they destroy for this purpose. There are many wood-eating insects that, when transformed into flies, make some amends for the mischief they do, by preying on other insects. Others, though not predaceous in their winged state, deposit their eggs among plant-lice, on the juices of which the young afterwards subsist. Some species lay their eggs in caterpillars, and on other species of larva, and the maggots are hatched within their bodies, and live upon their substance, finally destroying them. Others drop their eggs in the nests of insects, whose offspring are starved to death, by these cuckoo flies that take it away from them. It would seem from these facts, that the predaceous insects and the devourers of vegetation are so blended together, some being insectivorous in one state and granivorous or herbiv- orous in another state, that it would be entirely impracticable to make use of the services of one species in order to exter- minate another sort. All that it would be advisable to do, in this direction, is to make use of such services, in some particular instances : but as a general rule we must depend on our own industry and invention for checking the over- multiplication of noxious insects, and above all things, take 20 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. care that the numbers of birds, 'all of which are insectivorous to a certain extent, be kept fully equal to the supply of in- sects upon which they feed. At the same time we may rest assured that Providence has provided amongst the insect tribes, domestic enemies belonging to their own family, of sufficient importance to keep them from becoming too power- ful for tlie safety of other animals. But there are other services performed by insects which it may be well to briefly mention, to show that they are not without value ; and probably do indeed produce more good than evil, though the evil they do is more apparent to us, and is in great measure the result of our own improvidence. As Dr. Harris remarks in regard to this matter : " We not only suffer from our own carelessness, but through ignorance fall into many mistakes. Civilizatio]i and cultivation in many cases have destroyed the balance orig- inally existing between plants and insects, [between birds and insects] and between the latter and other animals. De- prived of their natural food by tlie removal of the forest trees and shrubs, and the other indigenous plants that once covered the suil, insects have now no other resource than the culti- vated ])lants that have taken the place of the original vegeta- tion. The destruction of insect-eating animals, whether quadrupeds, birds or reptiles, has undoubtedly tended greatly to the increase of insects. Colonization and commerce have to some extent introduced foreign insects into countries whore they were before unknown. It is to such causes as these that we are to attribute the unwelcome appearance and the undue multiplication of many insects in our cultivated grounds, and oven in our storehouses and dwellings." The greater part of the insect tribes may bo regarded as the scavengers of nature ; their services in her economy being to remove carrion, decaying vegetable substances, and all kinds of filth, upon which their larva) subsist. Such aro the rove- beetles, carrion-beetles, bone-beetles, dung-beetles of various species. Many coleoptora live entirely on substances wliich if not devoured liy them would soon become putrid in their di!t;ay ; such a.s agarics, toadstools, and poisonous mushrooms. There are many otlifi's tlial. live only on the decaying timber JANUARY. 21 of trees, and theroliy hasten its decay, and contributing their aid to reduce them to productive soil. Such arc the stag- beetles, the bark-beetles, and spring-beetles. " Some flies (says Dr. Harris) are entirely harmless in all their states, and many are eminently useful in various ways. Even the common house-flies and flesh-flies, and otliM's, render important services, by feeding, while larvjB, upon dung, car- rion, and all kinds of filth, by which means, and by similar services rendered by various tribes of scavenger-beetles, these offensive matters speedily disappear, instead of remaining to decay slowly, thereby tainting the air and rendering it un- wholesome. Those whose larvte live in stagnant water, such as gnats (Culicida?.) feather-horned gnats (Chironomus, ttc.,) the soldier-flies, the rat-tailed flies, , and tiio vertical shouts, absorbing all JANUARY. 33 the sap, would become converted into wood-shoots of great vigor and difficult to restrain. In some cases the tree would be exhausted by excess of production. One maxim more, and this part is ended. By removing the earth from the principal roots during the summer, so as to expose them to the air, the tree is much checked in its vig- our. This shows the danger of growing crops too near the roots, as, independently of the exhaustion of the soil thus in- duced, the risk of injury from the spade and removal of the surface is very great. For this very reason, transplanting an unfruitful tree often makes it bear well, when other methods have failed. POMOLOGICAL GOSSIP Report on Grapes by the Royal Horticultural Society. The fruit committee of the society, whose duty it is to ex- amine fruits, have made the following report on grapes : — Early White Malvasia and Burckhardt's Amber Cluster. These proved to be synonymous. When the latter fruited in the garden during the past two seasons, the Early White Mal- vasia was not in the collection, and, as it could not be identi- fied, it was supposed to be a distinct sort. After a close com- parison this season, there can be do doubt that the two are perfectly identical. There is every appearance that Early Kienzheim will also prove synonymous with Early White Malvasia. Smith's Sweetwater. This is not exactly a sweetwater, but a form of Royal Muscadine, to which it bears a considerable resemblance. It seems, however, to diifer from Royal Musca- dine grown along with it, and was particularly rich in flavor, while the latter was comparatively deficient in that respect. Stillman's Sweetwater is a true sweetwater, with a good- sized cylindrical well-set bunch, with large transparent-skinned berries. This was compared with Chasselas Vibert, which is so like it as not to be known apart ; the latter, however, is firmer, and more crackling in the flesh, than Stillman's Sweet- water, but decidedly inferior to it in flavor. VOL. XXVIII. — NO. I. 3 34 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Foster's White Seedling is a fine grape, with a large showj bunch, well set, with rather large roundish-oval berries, and is quite distinct in character from either the Royal Muscadine or the Sweetwater. As an early grape, it ripens with the Royal Muscadine, and is of first-rate quality. A white grape, from a vine presented by Mr. Whiting, of the Deepdeene, and named Syrian, proved to be very different from that variety, and had more the appearance of the White Lisbon, imported from Portugal during the winter months. The fruit is large and white, with a transparent skin, showing the texture of the skin below. The flesh is fine and crack- ling, watery and sweet. Mousca preta, a small round black grape, and a small bunch. The flavor is sweet but the grape possesses no merit. Muscat St. Laurent and Muscat Ottonel are two very small- bunched and small-berried Muscat grapes. They have the full Muscat flavor, but the flesh becomes mealy, and neither of them has any merit besides earliness. They ripen before either the Royal Muscadine or the Sweetwater, and in the opinion of the committee are not worthy of cultivation, ex- cept as objects of curiosity. Being so early might they not ripen out of doors, against a wall, as freely as Black Cluster or the Sweetwater ? Muscat Hamburgh. There was a very good bunch of this variety, and the berries were well developed and well colored. Tlie great fault that has been found with it as grown in tlie ♦'■ardon in pots is, that a large proportion of the berries are undeveloped. In this case, however, they were not so, and were of good size, rich in flavor, and with a very marked Muscat aroma. A seedling grape was received from Mr. Tiiompson, gardener to his grace the Duke of Buccleugh, Dalkeith Palace, accom- panied by the following communication from Mr. Thompson : " The vine sent is a seedling raised from the berry of the Mus- cat of Alexandria crossed with the pollen of Chassclas Musqu^, in the year 1859. In Marcli, 18G0, the seed was sown, conse- quently the vine was only eighteen months old when the l)unch was cut. Last year the vine had all the appearance of being a pure Muscat, and when it broke into leaf this season it was JANUARY. 35 obvious the cross had not taken effect, and when the berries were set I did not feel certain that it was far removed from the Muscat, and thinned the bunches more than they ought to have been, which gives the bunch a less compact appearance than it otherwise would have presented. The bunch sent is one of two on the same branch. The vine, though not stronger in spring than a straw, has borne six bunches; they are ripe while in the same house — whicli has only had an oc- casional fire during cold weather — the Golden Hamburgh will not be ripe for a month, the Black Prince just beginning to change color, and Bowood and common Muscats are botli quite green. Many gardeners who have tasted the grape here this month, think it combines the Muscat and Chasselas Musqu6 flavor, but of this your committee will be the proper judges," The bunch sent by Mr. Thompson was nine inches long, of a long tapering shape, well set, and not shouldered. The berries were quite small, round, of a pale greenish color, and covered with a bloom. The flesli tender, juicy, rich, and sugary, with a fine piquancy, and with a distinct trace of the Muscat aroma, but not so strong as a Chasselas Musqu^ or the Prontignans. The committee were of opinion that the flavor of the grape was excellent, but that the berries were too small, evidently arising from the young and feeble state of the vine, and from so small a plant having borne so many bunches. They recommend Mr. Thompson to exhibit the fruit again next year, after the plant has attained more vigor, and has been grown under more advantageous circumstances. Two bunches of a new white grape, were sent by Mr. Con- stantino, gardener to C. Mills, Esq., Hillingdon Court, with the following communication: — "A cutting of this vine was given to me in 1857, by Mrs. Mills, under the name of Cha- vourish. It had been sent from Bithynia, Asa Minor — and was said to be the best grape the Sultan had at his table. It is a strong grower, and very free bearer, bearing well under pot culture. It requires about a fortnight longer than the Black Hamburgh to ripen it." The large bunch exhibited was nine inches and a half long, tapering, very well set, and with one large shoulder. The berries are large, long oval ; the skin is of a fine light amber color, thin, and adhering close 36 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. to the flesh, which is rather firm, juicy, rich, and highly fla- vored. The bunch is very showy, and will prove a valuable addition to our collections of large-bunched white grapes. It was unanimously awarded a first-class certificate. Burckhardt's Prince Grape. — Of the varieties of grape which at Chiswick this season have proved themselves to be of good quality, and desirable for cultivation, is one received some years since by the Royal Horticultural Society, without name, from Mr. Burckhardt. The grape, from its having some resemblance to the Black Prince, was named Burck- hardt's Prince, in one of the early reports of the Fruit Com- mittee, in which it was highly spoken of. This year the vari- ety has ripened for the first time under pot culture, and proves in every way excellent. The established vines in the large conservatory have produced large and handsome bunch- es, but in that situation, where they receive little artificial aid, the berries scarcely ripen ; it therefore evidently requires something beyond a greenhouse temperature. The bunches are long and tapering, well set, with large handsome berries, which are quite black. The flavor is excellent, resembling that of the Black Hamburgh combined with something of the briskness of the Black Prince. It may be considered as an acquisition. The Montangon or Chandelier plan of Growing Grapes. It will be remembered that in our last volume (p. 159) we gave some account of the mode of growing grape vines as standards, accompanied with an engraving, on what was called the Mon- tangon plan ; it was a new and novel system, and interested our own cultivators as well as those of Great Britain, who., having no other information about it, were at especial pains to procure specimens for inspection. At a late exhibition of the Royal Horticultural Society (Nov. 6) tlicse were on ex- hibition, and we copy the following report from the Gardeners* Chronicle : — These specimens were kindly procured for the inspection of English cultivators, through the agency of Messrs. Vilmorin, of Paris, and, though dead and dried up, they nevertheless fully answered the purpose for which they were exhibited. Of this kind of training some account, together with a wood-out JANUARY. 37 illustration, is copied in tlic page above referred to. On reference to the page in question it will be seen that this mode of training the vine docs not differ from that usually followed in this country in regard to gooseberry and currant bushes, and that vines will readily submit to such treatment gardeners will easily understand. The specimens exhibited had short, thick stems, open cup-like centres, and heads pruned hard in so as to occupy little room, and thus managed they are stated to bear abundantly. The plan may therefore be worth a trial in orchard houses, in which such standard vines, if they did well, would have a pretty appearance. New Pears. — M. de Jonghe, of Belgium, has published descriptions and engravings of the seedling pears raised by him, and named in his communication in our last volume, ' (p. 116,) viz.: Camille de Rohan, Charles Bassiner, De Bon- neau, and Bezi Mai. ^ We shall give a full account of them in a future number. Conditions of Perfection in the Strawberry. — M. de Jonghe, the raiser of La Constante, has published some valu- able remarks upon this interesting subject, which we shall en- deavor to find room for in another number. OUR HARDY HERBACEOUS PLANTS. BY THE EDITOR. In the rapid multiplication of varieties of our bedding plants, their easy cultivation, and their very showy character, the old and familiar garden perennials have been much neg- lected ; not, probably, because they are wanting in beauty or attractiveness, but rather because fashion has otherwise decided public taste, and gradually they have been less sought after, till in many gardens, even of moderate extent, it would be difficult to count a dozen species; certainly a large and varied collection is rarely to be found, and the existence of many beautiful sorts is almost unknown. It will be our object, in a series of articles, to make known a few of these ; to bring them to the notice of our amateurs, 38 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. that they may be more speedily introduced to our gardens. From the earliest days of spring to the last week of autumn they enrich the border with their numerous flowers. Some are dwarf and spreading in growth, while others are tall and stately in appearance. All are hardy, require but little care, and with some few exceptions will flourish in any good garden soil. Having, with considerable labor, made a collection of more than 200 varieties, and noted down the characters of each, we (ENOTHEKA MACROCARPA. hope to interest lovers of flowers in their more general cul- tivation. Many hundred kinds arc cultivated in English collections, but .quite a number arc not hardy in our own severe cliuiatc, whiU3 others are too dehcate to render them popular. A few arc so well known as to require no particu- JANUARY. 39 lar description, while others possess so many excellencies as to merit a particular notice. It is the latter more especially that we intend to bring before our readers, and incidentally others worthy of cultivation. CENOTHERA MACROCARPA. This very handsome species (fig. 1) is probably the finest of this extensive group of primroses, and deserves a place in every collection of plants. It has a very pretty habit, with beautiful foliage, and large pale-yellow blossoms, three to four inches in diameter, which appear in profusion a greater part of the summer. It has a dwarf branching growth, and the flowers appear at the axils of the leaves, on long slender stems, eight or ten inches in length. The leaves are lanceolate, and are tinted with red. This showy species was discovered by Nuttall, in his tour through the western country, growing on the borders of the Missouri river, and described by him under the name of (E. alata, on account of its seed vessels. It was also figured in the Botanical Magazine under the name of Missouriensis. But it proved the same as the macrocarpa of Pursh, the name now adopted. It is perfectly hardy and of easy culture, flourishing best in a somewhat peaty earth, but growing freely in any good garden soil. It is increased by cuttings or by division of the roots in spring or autumn. Most of the perennial (Enotheras are North American plants, and are very beautiful acquisitions to any collection. The following are especially desirable : (Enothera Fraseri (Fraser's Primrose): — Flowers deep yellow, large, appearing from July to October ; leaves glau- cous green, spotted. Height about 18 inches. (Enothera gla'uca (Glaucous-leaved). Flowers, large yellow; blooming from June to October; leaves glaucous, large and broad. Height about 18 inches. Oenothera fruticosa (Shrubby Primrose). Flowers deep yellow, medium size ; leaves prettily spotted with red ; blooms from June to September. Height 18 inches to 2 feet. 40 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE.^ (Enothera prostrata (Dwarf Primrose) : — Flowers yellow, medium size, appearing early in the spring and continuing for a long period. Height six inches, with a compact and neat habit, and admirably adapted for a bedding plant, blooming profusely early in the season and continuing in beauty till autumn. All these are very fine border flowers, and are well worthy of a place in every choice collection. They are quite hardy, grow freely in any good soil, and are readily increased by division of the roots. §tntxKl "Bfiiitts. Begonias. — It is to be feaied that the present passion for plants with colored foliage will drive some of our old favorites out of cultivation — some of those plants which we have formerly valued highly, cultivated with care, and which have well repaid us for the trouble we bestowed upon them. Already has the sentence been passed upon some of the older Be- gonias ; even their names have been banished from the pages of the newly published nursery catalogues ; the plants themselves are everywhere doomed to unnecessary neglect, and are daily becoming more and more scarce. Before they are entirely gone let us at least give them a good character for the services they have rendered us; and if some horticulturist with more gratitude, and less of that tendency to bow to fashion, which Bloomfield says "rules us all," may be induced to continue the growth of a few of the best kinds, he will be a benefactor to future generations, and I shall not have written in vain. Let us see how matters stand with old Begonins. There is B. octopctala, the largest flowered species in all the family ; it has already been lost, I fear. Should any gardener in the country still possess it he would do well to grow and exhibit a good plant of it at one of the meetings at South Kensington; it would produce quite a sensation. B. nitida was one of the most useful plants I ever cultivated for the sake of cut flowers during win- ter; one plant of it I recollect was never out of bloom ior more than two years, and it might have continued longer for anything I know, for it was grown in a nursery and was sold in full flower at the end of that time. B. fuchsioides furnishes us with one of the most gracefully habited stove plants we havci and yet one seldom sees it well grown. It would make a much better exhibition plant than many of those which find a place among stove and greenliousc speciniena ul a late show. It would evince the skill of the JANUARY. 41 cultivator too, much hotter than a Vinca or an Allamanda. B. Evansiana (or as it is often called B. discolor) is used on the continent as an edging for beds of Canna, and with fine effect; why should it in this country be banished from the gardens of the wealthy, and find a home only in the cot- tager's window ? It is a herbaceous kind, and the roots should be stored in some dry place during winter; it is so hardy that it certainly deserves a trial in those gardens where the purple Orache has proved a failure, and where the Perilla is thought too sombre to be used extensively. For the autumn decoration of the conservatory there are few plants which can vie with B. diversifolia (called B. Martiana in some gardens); the rich crimson flowers of this plant are very fine when the plants are well grown. It should be treated as a biennial, and grown in a hot-bed; but the tubers — for it is a herbaceous species — may be kept longer than two years if prop- erly attended to in the winter. The roots should not be kept dry too long? or they will rot away like those of old gloxinias. One great peculiarity about this plant is the great length of time the seed will lay in the ground without germinating; although so very minute, and there are few seeds which are so small, they will often remain dormant for a year. A few seeds will start within a week or two after they are sown, and occasional stragglers will follow them from time to time, but if the gardener has suffi- cient patience he will find that the main crop will come up about a twelve- month after the seed was sown. This is so very different to what takes place among the generality of begonias that I should not have believed it possible had I not seen it occur more than once under my own hands, and fortunately I had noted the date of sowing upon the labels. The pretty habit, the neat, silky-looking foliage, crimson on the under side, and the freely-blooming properties of B. Fischeri, are qualities which I should hope would save this kind from extinction. B. cinnabarina is getting scarce, too, but it will not, I trust, be entirely lost, for it is a good and useful spe- cies. The delicious fragrance of the pure white flowers of B. odorata should make it worth preserving ; and so should the pretty habit of the small and neat growing kinds — B. Dregii, B. natalensis, and B. microphylla. All these, and others that I could name, are well deserving of cultiva- tion ; I could, if space permitted, easily lengthen the list by referring to B. sanguinea, remarkable for the crimson color of the under surface of its large and fleshly leaves, to B. urophylla and B. manicata, which produce such a profusion of flowers in early spring, and to other species which in their way are quite as valuable ; but 1 trust that the good taste of my fellow gardeners will not allow them to sacrifice such useful plants to make room for the more showy hybrids. If we must have plants remarka- ble for the coloring of their foliage, there are still a few of the older kinds which have never been surpassed, if, indeed, they have been equalled. There is, for example, the rich crimson velvety leaves of B. splendida ; this is a somewhat difficult plant to manage well, but when in a young and vigorously-growing state, there is nothing to rival it. The delicate manner in which the zones of color are shaded off into each other on the leaves of B. GrifRthii (formerly called B. picta) is quite unique. 42 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. All the new hybrids partake of the characters of the Xanthina group of the genus ; indeed, I think they may all be traced to some half a dozen species, and in almost every instance one of the parents has been a variety of Xanthina. Those kinds in which B. splendida, or the dwarf- growing B. Thwaitesii, has been one of the parents, are easily distinguishable from the others. But there is too much monotony among the hybrids, so many of them have been raised, and they are so difficult to distinguish from each other on account of their very minute differences, that many purchasers are already becoming disgusted with them. Our nurserymen should look to this and ascertain whether entirely new strains may not be brought out. Would the colored species hybridize with the strong growing upright kinds of the longipes or zebrina groups ? Or, still better, would these breed with the small-leaved kinds, of which B. natalensis may be taken as the type ? Before laying down my pen I may just observe that the curious peculiarity in the flowers of B. frigida, noticed in these pages about a year ago, is in- herited by the young seedlings raised from the original plant. The same proportion of the flowers is still hermaphrodite, and the female organs supe- rior. I have repeatedly tried to raise seed from these anomalous flowers fertilized by their own pollen, to see if the plant could be induced to make some further progress in this direction, but always without success. The seed from which the young plants were raised was produced by the normal flowers of this begonia. — (Gard. Chron.) Glass Hooses for Froits. — I am sure that all gardeners must bear testimony to the great stimulus which " T. R." has given this particular branch of horticulture, and to the indomitable perseverance with which he has continued to fight for a number of years for his " orchajd houses," and for his peaches and nectarines " in pots." " A look into their roots," he says, " is like a look into the book of Nature, most valuable to a reflective mind." I accept the cultivation of fruit trees in pots exactly in this sense. But as a matter of £ s. d. and of supply, I must leave my potted pets to keep company with my geraniums and orange trees, where as objects of beauty they shall have my attention still. That fruits of all kinds can be grown in pots there can be no doubt ; but where a constant and substantial supply is required for table or for market, of the finest quality and in the greatest quantity, then there is no question that you must decidedly plant out. In 1853 I designed and built a peach house for the late J. II. Vivian, Esq., M. P., Singleton, novel in its structure, yet light and simple in all its parts. Although perhaps it ill becomes any one to introduce new ideas at the expense of any gentleman, yet when those ideas arc based upon sound principles of theory, aided by years of experience, I think it becomes every intelligent gardener to step out of the beaten track and strike out a path for hiuisclf I, however, grant that this ought to be the exception, not tlie rule ; but the gardener, alwayH ho proud of the word " practical," should bring theory to his aid. A look into " Mudley's Theory of Horticulture," is like a look into the book of Nature, difficult to understand. I contend, never- theless, that every gardener should apply himself to understand it, whether JANUARY. 43 he may be a, qualified " practical," or not. I need not, I presume, enter further on this point. See, ye gardeners, what Lindley's Theory of Horti- culture does say on any subject, but especially on that of light, heat, and air. Thus much I write in my own defence as a justification for a devia- tion from the usual style of peach-house building. Impressed with the im- portance of light, heat, and air to vegetation of every kind, but if possible in a tenfold degree to all tropical fruits grown in our sunless climate, I ob- ject to back walls, or indeed walls anywhere. I desire to see nothing but glass, giving light from every point, and with this conviction I built my new structure, which is 80 feet long by 17 h wide, divided in the centre ; it is half span, which I prefer because you get the direct rays of the sun to every part ; it is glazrd within six inches of the ground all round, back and front ; it has 5 feet wide upright lights hung on pivots, all moveable, for the admittance of air ; the top lights are also all moveable. The trees are planted out inside, and are trained on trellises. Single trees with clean upright stems are attached to each rafter and trained up, eight inches from the glass, similar to vines ; these trees are planted inside, but their roots occupy the outside border ; the whole is well heated by hot- water pipes. I do not hesitate to state that this little house and its produce is unsurpassed by anything of the kind in the kingdom; it produces immense quantities of fruit of the highest quality, the wonder and admiration of everybody, and it reflects the highest credit on Mr. Westicott the gardener, for the way in which he manages it; but like most of us, as I pointed out, he is inclined to keep his wood too thick for the proper development of the trees. Some- how in most cases gardeners have not the heart or nerve enough to thin sufficiently, whether it be wood or fruit. The same may be said of grapes, and in nine cases out of ten too many are left. But to the subject : Peach trees, &c., and their cultivation. If my opinion is worth anything, I rec- ommend glass houses of the lightest possible construction, and trees planted out for supply. In this way there will be no disappointment, and if you wish to grow in pots let it be understood that it is for the pleasure which such a fancy conveys, not for profit. — ( Gard. Chron, ) Lachenalias. — There is a little group of greenhouse bulbous plants, which is worthy of far more extended cultivation than it receives, we mean that of the Lachenalias — plants which one now very seldom meets with in ordinary collections, though they are amongst the most pleasing, of spring flowers and of very easy management. In. general terms they consist of two or three lance-shaped leaves of greater or lesser breadth, either green, or spotted like those of some of our common orchids, to which in foliage they bear a considerable resemblance. From the centre of these leaves grows a simple upright scape or flower stem, reaching in the more ornamental species from six or eight inches to a foot or rather more in height, and decorated in its upper part by the numer- ous dependent cylindrical tube-like flowers forming a narrow pyramidal inflorescence. One of the commonest, and certainly a very lively- looking little plant of small stature, is the species called L. luteola, in which the 44 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. leaves are spotted, and the flowers, which are yellow slightly tipped with green, are abundant on the scape. A five-inch pot planted with five or six of its bulbs, each of which yields a flower-spike, has a very pretty effect. Not very dissimilar to this is the species called L. tricolor, but it diflfers in having a narrow ring of deep red around the edge of the cylindrical flow- ers. L. aurea is another beautiful kind, with the flowers of a rich orange color. Of rather more vigorous growth is L. pendula, in which the flowers are of a deepish red, and tipped with dark green. There are many other kinds found at the Cape of Good Hope, which is the home of the genus, and a goodly number have been introduced to our gardens, but for the most part they have been suffered to pass away to make room for novelties of less merit. No doubt they are, many of them, procurable without much difliculty, and the collection of the Royal Horticultural Society may per- haps do something towards reintroducing them. Those we have named may be met with here and there in cultivation now, and might readily be increased if they came into favor. The ordinary treatment of hardy greenhouse bulbs is all that these pretty little plants require. They bloom in spring, after which they should be suffered to mature and ripen their leaves, and should then be allowed a dry rest. About August they should be repotted, in light well-drained earth, planting about three of the stronger bulbs of the larger growing sorts, or half a dozen of those of the smaller sorts, in a five-inch pot; or a single bulb of the larger ones, and about three of the smaller ones, in a three-inch pot, which size is sometimes more convenient for arranging in jardiiiiers and in-door flower stands. We have advantageously used sandy and not very fibrous peat soil. They may be placed in a cool frame after potting, and treated as newly-potted bulbs usually are, moderate supplies only of water being given until they begin to grow up. In autumn they can be removed to a greenhouse shelf, where they are best placed near the glass. Here they continue to grow through the winter months, and come into bloom during those of early spring, the spikes of brightly-colored pendent tube-like perianths imparting a pleasing variety to the decorative materials obtainable at that season of the year. Along with the gay many-colored hyacinth, the narcissus, the tulip, the crocus, and the little azurean scillas, the species of lachenalia are quite worthy to hold a place. We hope to see them yet become as fashionable as they are interesting and beautiful. — (Gard. Chron.) Gossip of tj)C lllontj). Bonai'ahtka juncka. — This curious and linndtfome plant has recently flowered in the collection of Messrs. Ellwanger & Barry, of Rochester, N. Y. The specimen was originally obtained of Messrs. Prince, of Flushing, N. Y., and has been in tlie collection of Messrs. E. & 13. JANUARY. 45 since the foundation of their nurseries at Rochester, 25 years ago. It has apparently remained in the same condition, in a moderate-sized pot, till about the 10th of September last, when, unexpectedly, it began to throw up its flower stem, which grew so fast that it reached the height of 18 feet in two months, the flowers appearing in November, towards the base of the stem, and continuing in succession along nearly the whole length. This is, we think, the second time the Bonapartea has flowered in this country. A specimen was exhibited before the Massachusetts Horticultural Society in 1845 or '46, which measured only little more than ten feet high. It is, however, a very common and interesting plant in European collections, where it has flowered so frequently that thousands of plants have been raised from seeds. A correct drawing of the plant in flower may be found in Loudon's Magazine, (vol. ii. p. 96,) and in his Arboretum Britannicum, (vol. iv. p. 2529). A specimen which flowered at Knight's Exotic Nur- series, London, was 14 feet high, and produced 846 flowers; it was 12 to 15 years old. Another specimen, which flowered in Brussels in 1857, was 30 feet high, and had 1200 to 1500 flowers; and the same plant flowered a few years previously. M. Soulange Bodin raised 1000 plants from the seeds of one plant which flowered in his collection. The plant has a thick, round, wiry, rush-like foliage, drooping over the sides of the pot, very ornamental as a conservatory plant, or for summer decoration of the lawn. The flower stem when it appears makes a growth of four to five inches a day. The flowers are lily-shaped, about two inches long, green without and a greenish yellow within, of no great individual beauty, but from their great number and the stateliness of the whole spike, highly imposing and attractive. It is easily cultivated in any ordinary greenbouse. Though the plant will probably be out of bloom by the time this is seen by our readers, should any of them visit Rochester they will probably see what is nearly as interesting, the plant with its tall flower stem, and per- haps loaded with seeds. Hovet's Imperial Lettuce. — Sir, seeing in the November number of 1861 of the Magazine of Horticulture some remarks on the Algerine let- tuce, I send you a small box of the Hovey's Imperial Cape Lettuce, which has been growing in a cold frame, and which is very much exposed in an open field, on the north side of a stone wall ; and we have succeeded in having lettuce for four years. This is the first winter I have tried the Hoveys' Imperial Cape Lettuce, which I find stands the frost remarkably well, as you will see from the specimens, which are very fine for this time of year; you will also find it exceedingly tender, and, if you are a lover of lettuce, will pronounce it superior. — Yours, with respect, J. B. McGee, gardener to R. S. Rogers, S, Danvers, Dec. 1861. We are obliged to Mr. McGee for an opportunity to try a specimen of our lettuce, which we know to be excellent, but which we never had the pleasure of eating so good at this late season. The experience of Mr. McGee proves it to be a valuable and hardy variety. 46 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. Passacjjusetts portitulhiral f otittj. Saturday, Nov. 2, 1861. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to day— 'the President in the chair. The following members were elected: Mrs. T. W. Ward, Canton; J. J. Fontarie, E. H. Eldridge, and J. W. Brooks, Boston; Jos. Gilmore, Jr., Newton Corner. Col. Wilder, one of the executors of the will of the late B. V. French, reported that he had given to the Society $500, the interest of which sum should be appropriated to the advancement of Horticulture ; and the Presi- dent, Messrs. Wilder and Stickney were chosen a Committee to report in what manner the same should be invested, and the objects to which it should be devoted. Adjourned four weeks, to December 7. Dec. 7. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day — the President in the chair. The Executive Committee reported the following appropriations for the various Committees the ensuing year : — Committee on Gardens, .... 300 GO » " Fruits, 1000 00 « " Flowers, . . . . 1000 00 " « Vegetables, . . . . 400 00 « " Library, .... 500 00— $3200 00 The President, from the Executive Committee, reported that the friends of the late Mrs. Fessenden had the permission of the Society to inter her remains with those of her husband in Mt. Auburn. On motion of F. Parkman, a Committee was chosen to consider the pro- priety of awarding certificates of merit to exhibitions of flowers, fruits and vegetables, and Messrs. Parkman, Hovey and Hyde were appointed the Committee. On motion of W. C. Strong, a Committee was appointed to consider the propriety of changing the days of exhibition from Saturday to Wednesday. Messrs. Strong, Rand and Hyde were appointed the Committee. Col. Wilder, from the Committee appointed in regard to the donation of the late B. V. French, made a report, stating that the $500 had been duly invested, and recommending that it should be called tlie PVencli fund, and the interest thereon be annually awarded in prizes as follows : — For the best 20 varieties of apples, .... ^0 00 For the next best 20 varieties of apples, . . . 10 00 The premiums to be increased if at any future time tiie income from the fund should exceed the present amount. The report was ^iccepted. The Committee on Flowers submitted tiicir report, wiiich was accepted. John Iluggles, Thomas Dana, Cambridge, and E. W. Wood, Needham, were elected members. Adjourned two weeks, to Dec. 21. JANUARY. 47 Dec. 21. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day — the President in the chair. Mr. Cabot, Chairman of the Committee on Fruits, submitted his report, which was read and accepted. The reports of the Committees on Vegetables and the Library were read and accepted. Mr. Strong, from the Committee for that object, reported that a majority of the Committee advised a change of the day of exhibition from Saturday to Wednesday, and, on motion of C. M. Hovey, it was laid on the table until the annual stated meeting in January. The Committee on Gardens submitted their report, which was accepted. Messrs. Austin, Stickney and Wilder were chosen a Committee to settle with Mount Auburn. Messrs. C. M. Hovey, Cabot and Austin were appointed a Committee to nominate a Committee of Arrangements for 1862. The Committee for Establishing Premiums submitted their report, which was referred to the Executive Committee for approval. Meeting dissolved. iorticttltural ©prations FOR JANUARY. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. The month of December was mild and generally pleasant, with but ]ittl« severe frost till the close ; altogether a favorable month for forcing, and the completion of out-door work ffr the winter. Grape Vines in the earliest houses will now be in flower, or have just set their fruit, and the heat may be increased from six to ten degrees, as the higher sun will now materially aid in keeping up a good temperature. Stop the shoots one or two eyes beyond the bunch, and give air every fine day. Commence thinning early. See that the outside borders are kept well covered with good warm stable manure, to keep out all frost. Vines in pots may now be brought in for a succession, and those already in fruit should be well supplied with manure water. Vines in later houses will soon begin to swell their buds, and should have the usual care given at this early stage ; airing every fine day, and syringing till all the eyes are broken. Greenhouse grape vines should be pruned immediately, cleaned, and washed. Strawberries in pots should be placed on a warm shelf, near the glass. Water sparingly for a month. Orchard Houses should be well protected with mats or hay or straw in zero weather. Peach Trees, in pots, may now be brought into the grapery, for very early fruit. 48 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. FLOWER DEPARTMr:NT. The month of January is the time to commence preparations for the year; a little forethought and calculation of the wants of the season will save valuable time. Commence very soon with the propagation of such plants as are wanted, and prepare for others next month. Some kinds of seeds should be sown ; and various spring and summer bulbs potted. Look over the houses often, and keep everything in good order. Azaleas. Plants wanted for early bloom should now be put into a warm part of the house, and be frequently syringed and more liberally watered. They will soon begin to flower. Later blooming plants should be kept as cool as possible, and rather dry. Tie specimen plants into shape, and look over and keep the young stock in good order. Camellias will be in full bloom. Water rather more freely, avoiding an excess. Keep rather cool, unless desirable to have early blooms; a temperature of 45° to 55° is ample. Pelargoniums, with the advancing season, will begin to make good progress ; slightly increase the temperature ; pick off all dead leaves ; turn the plants round often, and tie into shape all specimens, topping any rank growths. Repot later flowering stock. Begonias should soon be divided and repotted, and placed in the warmest part of the house. Gloxinias and Achimenes may be potted the last of this month; use a very light sandy soil. Heaths now coming into bloom should be more liberally watered. Sow Seeds of various annuals, for early flowering, such as pansies, stocks, &,c., &c. Stove Plants should be cleaned, pruned, and repotted, ready for a vigorous growth. Roses should be liberally watered, using liquid manure. Cinerarias should be repotted, if not already done. Keep in a rather cool place, near the glass. Water carefully, and fumigate for the green fly. Caladiums may be carefully divided and repotted, placing them in the very warmest part of the house. Fuchsias should be encouraged by a shift into larger pots as soon as thev require it. Orange Trees, beginning to grow, should have little manure water occasionally. Acacias, and other large growing plants, now coming into bloom should be freely supplied with moisture. Japan Lilies should now have more liberal waterings. CvcLAMENS should bc kept cool and rather dry ; a good shelf near the glass, away from strong fire heat, is the best place. Propagate a stock of everything needed for spring planting. Repot all miscellaneous plants that require it. Stake, tie up, and keep everything in order. ORCHARDS. Surprising as it may appear, the planting, management and care of orchards has received less attention than any other branch of fruit culture. With the exception of some capital articles in our volume for 1858, (Vol. XXIV.) by Mr. Wetherell, we have had little to say in reference to them in the Magazine, and as far as our recollection serves us, our cotemporary journals have even been more remiss than our- selves. When, however, we reflect upon the magnitude and extent of the orchards — and by this we refer to the apple — throughout the country, and the importance and value of the crop, far greater than that of any other fruit, and we are not certain but what we might say than all other fruits, it is ap- parent that a great interest has been overlooked or neglected. According to the census of 1850, that of 1860 not being yet published, the aggregate of the orchard products of Mas- sachusetts was more than -$500,000, while that of New York exceeded 12,000,000. That a larger part of this is the in- come of the apple orchards we may infer, when, during the last rather unfavorable year (1861), nearly 150,000 barrels of apples were purchased in Western New York, at a cost of |450,000, including transportation, by two extensive fruit dealers in Boston, and forwarded here. The orchard crops of Maine were valued at $350,000, and it is well known that other fruits constitute but a very small part of the large aggre- gate of that State. Undoubtedly all these aggregates were more than doubled by the census of 1860. The pear crop and the grape crop are quite insignificant compared with that of the apple, yet, while these have engaged so much attention, the apple has been comparatively neglected. From the very earliest period of orchard culture in this country to the present time, the subject has attracted but little attention in comparison with its importance. Even Coxe, who published his valuable experience in 1819, states in the introductory remarks to his volume that " he was com- VOL. XXVIII. — NO. II. 4 50 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. pelled to apply for instructions to European writers," and that his work was undertaken with a view to " aid the active and enterprising spirit of the American cultivators on sub- jects but little understood, and, as far as my information ex- tends, but imperfectly discussed in any work professedly Amer- ican ;" and although our pioneer horticulturists, among whom were John Lowell, General Dearborn, and others, devoted their time and their pens to the dissemination of information through that valuable journal the Agricultural Repository, it still had few enthusiastic supporters compared with other branches of fruit growing. No sooner, however, had the interest began to increase through the labors of the individuals just mentioned, than a fatal blow was given to its progress by the wholesale denunci- ation of cider as a healthy beverage. The temperance ques- tion, judicious as was its inception, was carried to such an extent, that orchards were no longer to be a source of profit to the planter. The then limited means of transportation compared with the present period, precluded the possibility of sending much of the apple crop to a good market, and that which had heretofore been manufactured into cider, the great- er portion, in some localities, had become valueless; orchards were neglected, indeed the trees were sacrificed, and the result is now before us in the numerous old and decrepit orchards and but few young and vigorous trees to take their place. Such at least to us, in a cursory view, appears the condi- tion of orchard culture today. New England, than which there is no finer apple-growing region in America, does not produce apples enough for home consumption. Every year immense quantities are brought from New York, and in un- favorable seasons the price reaches such an extravagant rate, that only the richer class can buy that which should come witliin the reach of the poorest citizen. Throughout the great West, there is a deep interest in or- chard planting. With a fertile soil, a quick growth, and a brisk demand, apple culture forms a prominent and profitable source of income to the intelligent cultivators. Thousands, we should perhaps say millions, of trees are annually planted, and tlie older orchards yield good crops. Illinois returns in FEBRUARY. 61 1850 ail aggregate of more than $400,000 in orchard prod- ucts, and Ohio about $700,000, and this notwithstanding some local causes which materially abridge the product. In the exposed and almost treeless plains of the West, our severe winters often seriously damage the trees ; and many young orchards have been partially destroyed ; but these casualties do not diminish the zeal of the planters, and at the present moment there are numerous young orchards which, ere many years, must add greatly to the already large and valuable crop. The soil is good, the climate favorable, and with care- ful planting and judicious treatment, western orchards must become a source of large income. We wish we could record the same zeal among our New England cultivators. That there are many thriving old or- chards and a goodly number of more recent formation, we are ready to admit, but neither are in any comparison to the intelligence, the skill of our people, or the favorable climate, and the demand for their products. In the bearing years of the Baldwin, our markets are well supplied with the very best fruit; but when these fail, the stock runs short, the price goes up, and but for the Western New York orchards, good apples would reach a price which few could afford to pay. Indeed it is to this source that we now look for our annual stock with the same certainty that we look to the great West for our wheat and corn. Tliis should not be. For while our soil and climate are so well adapted to the former, the latter yield abundant and profitable harvests only in the more fer- tile and easily tilled prairies of the West. It might be well to inquire if such is the condition of or- charding in our own State, whether our agricultural societies are doing all they ought by the way of encouragement to apple culture ? Should not liberal premiums be offered by every society in the State, not simply for the best exhibition of a few apples, but for larger or smaller plantations of trees, from half an acre to ten, and from two to ten years old ; and should not our horticultural societies aid in so laudable an effort ? They have done much in this way by the offer of handsome premiums for the finest specimens of the fruit, and perhaps that is as far as they should go, taking cognizance 52 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. only of tree culture as an art and not as a source of profit. In this connection it may be well to state, what is not yet at least generally known, that the late Hon. B. Y. French be- queathed to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society the lib- eral sum of $500, the income of which is to be forever devot- ed to premiums for the best annual display of twenty varieties of apples, and as this is in addition to the numerous premi- ums offered by the Society for the same fruit, it will at least have a tendency to direct attention to the subject and give renewed hope that orchards will receive more attention than heretofore. We should add what we have omitted in our opening remarks, that one of the earliest articles in our Mag- azine, was the " Detail of a method of Planting an Orchard," commenced in 1831, by Mr. French, who, from that period to his death, was a decided advocate of apple culture, collecting together all the best varieties, and his last act was to awaken in others the same zealous purpose. "Whatever can be done to increase the number and extent of our New England orchards should meet the ready co-operation of every agricul- tural association. We hear of associations for the culture of the grape for the manufacture of wine, but laudable as all such efforts are, the apple in our climate must still be first in importance of all fruits. An old and able physician, (Dr. Kennicott,) as well as a successful cultivator, remarks tliat the " potato, as human food, makes less brain and nerve and even muscle, though perhaps more fat, than the apple," while the "most wholesome beverage, and one of the pleasantcst that carping water-drinkers had ever condemned," may be made from the same fruit. Forever may the idea be ban- ished, that cider, because its use has been abused, should cease to be one of the important products of an enlightened agriculture. To attempt in this brief article to give our own experience in orchard culture is not our purpose ; our oltject is ratlior to draw attention to the sul»jcct ; but as not inapj)ropriatc, tliough not wholly applicable to our climate and locality, wc embrace tlio opportunity to notice a brief essay on orchards, by our old friend and correspondent. Dr. Kennicott, of the Grove, Illinois, being a premium essay written for the State Agricul- FEBRUARY. 53 tural Society of that State, in 1860. Like all that the Doctor does it is thorough, and covers the whole ground. But in our light and thin soils and more favored expositions what should be done on the prairies may be left undone here. Leaving to our intelligent readers to make their application to his advice, we copy the more valuable portions of his essay : — COST OF ORCHARDS. The cost of culture, and gathering the crop, will seldom exceed that of corn and potatoes — the smaller, and more largely-paying fruits excepted. And, averaged against our ordinary j5.eld crops, fruit will pay, at least double profits, wherever the markets are handy, and good. And failures are not more frequent, where soil and sorts are right, than with the wheat crop, in Illinois. I state this from actual ob- servation, in the last fifteen or twenty years — but excepting the first, or sod crop, of wheat, from my estimate. The old bugbear, of overproduction, is all nonsense. I have hauled many a load of wheat to Chicago, and sold it, for, from 50 to 75 cents per bushel ; and half of you have often realized less. But who, among you, has realized less, from a crop of good merchantable fruit — improved fruit — the best sort for your market? — not a lot of " seedlings," which are often worse than "stump-tail" wheat, in any well supplied market. Fruit sells much better now, than it did twenty years ago, all through the west, and four times as well, east, as it did forty or fifty years ago ; and every thinking and experienced fruit dealer, of twenty years' standing — and there are some such, who have got rich in the business — will join me in the asser- tion, that the demand for fruit has been increasing faster than the supply; all they complain of is, that too many dealers are going into it, and that, even in Chicago, a monopoly of the trade is no longer practicable. It is true, that, with per- ishable sorts, a market may be glutted for a few days, but not often, and never for long. soil and drainage. The first great principle, in the preparation of soil, for fruit growing, is thorough drainage — underdrainage. The second ; 54 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. deptli, strength or specific fertility — and capacity for holding just moisture enough, and no more ! All these latter conditions are oftenest found in a good wheat soil. Land that will pro- duce half a dozen good crops of winter wheat, with suitable ro- tation, is a pretty sure orchard soil, if reasonably drained. Land naturally well underdrained, is that with a subsoil of sand, gravel, or seamy and shelving rock ; and is not, always — though often — the best fruit soil. Underdrainage may be made, with the " mole" draining machine, in plastic clay — where the descent is moderate — with loose stones, boards, or brush, where the declivity is greater — and with tile, everywhere — that drainage is practi- cable. I have tried all ; and am satisfied that the last is best, as a general rule ; and the first, least expensive, and, where feasible, tolerably satisfactory. I intimated that climate — and, of course, adaptation, in regard to some particular varieties of fruit — might be modi- fied, by thorough drainage. It is said, tliat from 10° to 15° of heat have been gained by it. I know, that from one, to three weeks of time, is gained by it ; and there is no doubt as to the other fact, of temperature. And the gain — from snow and rain — and the saving in fertility, and in rendering inert elements available, is of immense consequence, besides. The amelioration, in local climate, by dense plantations of forest trees and hedges, is now pretty well understood ; and I refer to it, only, as a settled principle. But enough, on this. You MUST drain orchard ground, and it is best to under- drain it. If you cannot do it, then do the next best thing. By successive back-furrows, throw your ground into spaced ridges, with deep dead-furrows down the slopes, and open ditches for efficient outlets. An exceedingly wasteful and slovenly process, but one that may save your orchard, for all that. And if you will not plant forest trees and hedges, for protection to orchards, then plant your orchard trees thick, and they will protect each other. What is often considered "a good corn soil" — or our rich, black, prairie loam — over retentive clay — is utterly unfit, for most orchard fruits, in its natural condition, and position — the books to the contrary, notwithstanding. J>ut undordrain this, and trench-I'LOUgu it FEBRUARY. 55 — deep enough to bring up plenty of clay, and perhaps lime — and alter its capacity for retaining moisture, in a dry time, and modify its dark color, by admixture — and you may make of it, a fruit soil — almost equal to the natural wheat soil. Cold water is the greatest enemy the ordinary orchardist has to contend with ; an insufficiency of alumina, or clay, is often fatal ; lime is no less necessary to most fruits ; the phosphates, potash, soda, &c., are essential, and not always easily supplied ; vegetable matter cannot be dispensed with ; but is almost always sufficiently abundant, and can be added, at little cost, when needed. But, in nine of every ten cases, I will come back to cold water, as the cause of general fail- ure— so far as soil is concerned — and point you to drainage, and the trench plough, for prevention and cure. Always prepare orchard ground in autumn, except in loose sand, perhaps, whether you plant then or not. There is less time for it in spring; and frost is a great pulverizer of good clay. As a rule, your orchard soil should be well worked, to a depth of at least 12 inches — and better 18 — if its character will admit of it. And, if the clayey sub- soil be stirred by the sub-soil plough six or eight inches deeper, so much the better. SELECTION OF TREES. Never plant seedlings, if you can get any good worked sort. Seedlings do not pay. Budded trees are, in my opinion, better than root-grafts — a few sorts, possibly, excepted. Never buy trees of a pedler. You must, of necessity, get cheated, or cheat yourself, in either price or quality, in three out of every four cases. Not one, out of a hundred healthy trees, should fail to grow if well planted, And yet half that are planted do fail ! Your pedler, and your half-bred tree- maker — and your own adherence to old whims, and persistence in the notion, that a tree is as tenacious of life as a purslain — one or all — are at the bottom of those losses. Buy your trees of the regular educated nurseryman near you, or order them from a distant one in whom you have confidence ; and, in every case, order the roots to be sent with the trees ; and sent alive ! Have your trees well " packed," and PAY well for it, and you will get them alive. 53 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. HOW TO PLANT. If you get nearly all the roots of a tree in good condition, you need remove very little if any top. If short of root, then shorten in or cut back the new growth, to compensate for loss of root ; and do the same if the head of your tree needs forming — shaping. Remembering, always, that leaf- producing branches, or top, is as essential to growth as roots. I will now suppose that your trees are nicely heeled in — and you should heel them in when you get them — even if to be planted in half an hour — and that your well-prepared ground has been measured and staked off, at proper distances apart, for the trees ; the next work is to plant them right I and be in no hurry about the work. But I am forgetting the distances. And this is really a question I would gladly ignore — my own ideas and practice being so much at variance with others, and especially eastern orchardists. There is a wide difference in the growth of va- rieties of the same species of fruit tree ; and there should be a difference in the space given them. Take the apple for ex- ample : a yellow Bellflower will soon occupy, and really needs, double the space ever required by a Hawthornden, Lady Ap- ple, or Duchess of Oldenburg ; and, to a greater or less ex- tent, this holds good all through the list. Yet, eastern meh tell you to plant apple trees forty to fifty feet apart ! and some few western men follow suit ; while others say sixteen to thirty-two feet only. Both are, in part, right enough. At the east, the large spaces are needed for other crops ; and dense plantations are not demanded, as here, by the climate and meteorology, and especially high winds — sweeping over treeless plains.* I am, therefore; one of those advocating close |)lanting in the prairies. I would rather plant close, and cut away half when too thick, than not have the protection of close plantations for the first twenty years. For apples that attain the largest size, thirty-two feet is none too great a space after twenty or twenty-five years ; for those of small growth it is more than will ever bo needed. But in a small orcliard, of mixed sorts — \inless you are deter- mined to devote your orchard to fruit alone — it is well enough to give all your trees all the space they will occupy when FEBRUARY. 67 thirty or forty years old. Or else plant with the intention of cutting- out half when crowded. For it is inconvenient to plant and cultivate at different distances in the same plat. Perliaps we may say, the extremes for apple trees should be sixteen to twenty feet when in squares, and half intended to be sacrificed — and thirty to forty feet where all are to remain — and all, or nearly all, are of large-growing sorts. In quin- cunx, or diagonal plantations, a less space will do ; for you will have broad diagonal spaces for the wagon and plough, and the trees a better chance to expand, in proportion to meas- urement by acre. CULTIVATION. Fruit trees need as much cultivation as corn and potatoes, and should have it — not for one year or five, but forever — or as long as they pay for it in fruit. But the cultivation should not be continued too late in summer, lest a late and conse- quently immature wood-growth should ensue. This caution is especially called for in relation to all tender-wooded sorts, like the peach and pear. You can raise any kind of hoed crop you please among fruit trees. Beans, potatoes, vines, roots, &c., best ; and corn good when not shading the young trees too much. Never " seed down" a young orchard. Never let one of the forage " grasses" get a foothold in it. It is next to impos- sible to keep down " blue grass" and "June grass" when once established in an old orchard. Red clover is sometimes ad- missible, to check a too luxuriant wood growth, in deep rich loam. " Small grains" never. A crop of rye, barley, oats, or wheat, is worse than " fire blight" and caterpillars among fruit trees. A shallow-running corn plough, "cultivator," and four-tined fork, or pronged hoe, and common hoe, are the implements of cultivation. Keep the spade out of the orchard, and the large plough too, after the trees begin to bear. MANURING ORCHARDS. I have left this till the last, because it is the last thing to practice, except in rare instances ; as driving sand, which 58 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. may be helped by clay, leached ashes, and cow manure, and barren clay — seldom found- — which, after thorougli drainage and exposure to winter frosts, by autumn ploughing, may be made good by early applications of coarse stable or horse manure, peaty earth, and like matters. Manuring, to sustain fruitfulness, is another thing, and is not much needed in most orchards west, till the trees have been years in bearing ; and, as often given at planting, it is a great damage, and sometimes death, to fruit trees. When you manure bearing orchards, let it be in autumn ; spread evenly, and plough under lightly in spring, but be careful to place it where the roots are — not close to the stem ! and avoid breaking roots when you plougli. Special manures are often of great moment, especially broken or dissolved bones, leached ashes, air-slaked lime, &c. — analysis of soil, analogies, and experience, will teach you these special wants ; and care and patient watching will in- sure a just reward for all your well-directed work. HALF-HOURS WITH THE OLD ENGLISH GARDENERS. BY AN AMATEUR. We think we can do nothing more acceptable to our read- ers than to give them a brief abstract of the earliest instruc- tions for laying out groimds, which were published in Eng- land, and contained in a work by John Parkinson, apotliccai-y. The part with which we are at present concerned is entitled "The Ordering of the Garden of Pleasure;" and the instruc- tions it contains are pcrliaps as useful as any tliat have been put forth at the present day. He speaks first of the situation of the garden, remarking that tlie several situations of men's dwellings are, for the most part, unavoidable; for most men cannot select a place, but must be content with such as falls to their lot: but for the advantage of those who can locate their dwellings according to their own choice, he delivers these instructions. FEBRUARY. 69 Some prefer a situation near a river or lake, for the pleas- antness of the water, and the ease of transporting their goods, as well as for the fertility of the soil, which is seldom poor near a river's side. Others extol the side or top of a hill, for the prospeet's sake; again, some would select a plain for their dwelling, as they can more easily approach it on a level ground. The object of the writer is to show for each of these situations which is the fittest place to plant a garde)i in, and how to defend it from the wind and cold. First, for those who live near water, he supposes the north side of the water to be the best for the garden, that it may have the com- fort of the south sun to lie upon it, and the dwelling-house to be above it, to defend the fruits and flowers from the cold winds and frosts. He judges also for the hill-side, that it should lie open to the south, with the house above it. He gives the same instructions for the plain or level ground. But because every one cannot so appoint his dwelling as to put it always in the fittest place, he should endeavor to gain all such advantages, by helps of brick and stone walls to de- fend the garden, or by the help of high-grown and well-spread trees planted on the north side thereof, to keep it the warmer. And each of these three situations, having the buildings facing the garden, as before specified, beside the benefit of shelter it will have from them, the rooms in the house will have a beautiful prospect into it, and both sight and scent of whatsoever is excellent within it, which is one of the greatest pleasures a garden can yield its owner. Having shown the best place where the garden should be located, he explains where it should not be ; and signifies what is the worst place for it. Such may be said, if it be either on the west or on the east side of your house ; or if it stand in moorish ground, or near any common "lay-stalls," or common sewer, or near any great brew-house or dye-house, or any other place where there is much smoke, especially of sea-coal, which of all others is the worst, as the city of London can give proof sufficient, since the use of sea-coal began. Likewise it is much the worse, if it be near unto any barns and stacks of hay, which will choke it with dust and seeds of weeds. 60 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. With regard to soil, no man will deny that the natural black mould is not only the fittest and richest, but it exceeds others in durability. Next to this he esteems a sandy loam, which is hardly inferior to it ; as it is well adapted for all bulbous and tuberous-rooted plants, and for trees and shrubs. Other grounds, as chalk, sand, gravel, or clay, are all of them more barren than the former, and require, therefore, such helps as most befit them. For grounds that are over-dry, loose, and dusty, the manure of stall-fed cattle, well rotted, and turned in and mixed with the earth,,is admirable to temper both the heat and dryness of them. On the other hand, the stable manure of horses is the best for cold soils. Of all kinds of soils, stiff clay is the worst for a garden ; for although you should dig out the whole compass of your garden, carry it away and bring other good mould in its stead, and fill up the place with it, yet the nature of the clay is so predominant, that in a short time it will eat out the heart of the good mould, and convert it to its own nature. Hence it puts you to the necessity of continual labor to im- prove and restore it. Next to stiff clay the worst is that which comes nearest to it, the signs of which arc overmuch moisture in winter, and much cleaving and chapping in sum- mer, when the heat of the year has consumed the moisture. But if the clay be not too stiff, but tempered and mixed with sand and other earths, tlic chapping or rifting may be pre- vented by the plentiful use of stable manure of horses. Some also recommend the casting of ponds and ditches to help to manure these stiff cliapping grounds. Other grounds that are inundated by springs that lie too near the upper surface of the earth, require that the beds should be laid up higher, and the alleys, as trenches and fur- rows,' be laid lower, and filled with chalk and limestones, and otlicr substances that will drain the moisture from the beds. For sandy soils, along with tiic manure of cattle, some rec- ommend a white marl, and some a clay to be well spread up- on tliom and ploughed in. For chalky ground, ho recom- mends clay to help it. It is well to understand that the poorer your soil, in any rcsi)ect, it needs the more care, labor, and cost to be bestowed uj)on it : for no ai-lificial or forced FEBRUARY. 61 ground can endure a great while, but requires often to be renewed and refreshed. In the next place the author speaks of the frame or form of the garden. He remarks, however, that to prescribe one form for every man to follow, were presumption and folly ; for every man will please his own fancy; but he proceeds to show the several forms which have been preferred. Out of these let every man choose which he likes best, or which is most suitable to the ground he has set out for this purpose. He says, the orbicular or round form is held to possess the most absolute beauty ; but few, he thinks, would choose such a proportion to be joined to their dwelling. The triangular or three-square is such a form also as is seldom chosen by those who can make any other choice. The' four-square form is the most usually acceptable to all, and conforms best with the dwelling-house. If the garden be oblong, the proportion of walks, squares, and knots may soon be brought to the square form, and be so cast as that its beauty may be no less than that of the true square. To lay it out, therefore, with walks, to cross the middle both ways, and surround it with hedges, with squares, knots, and trails, or any other work, may be left to every man's conceit. There may be within it walks, either open or close, either public or private, a maze or a wilderness, a rock or a mount, with a fountain in the midst of it, to convey water to every part of the garden, either in pipes under the ground, or brought by hand, and emptied into large cisterns placed in convenient spots, for occasional use. Arbors, being both graceful and necessary, may be con- structed in such convenient places as to serve both for shade and for rest after walking. But let every man observe this rule, that in forming his trails, knots, and other devices, he should cast them with convenient room for alleys and walks ; for the fairer and larger your alleys and walks, the more grace your garden will have, the less harm the herbs and flowers will receive from those who pass by them, and the more easily will they be cleansed of weeds. Of the many sorts of herbs and other things to be used as materials for borders and edgings, wherewith the knots and 62 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. beds in a garden are to be set, to show the form of them, to preserve their verdure, one of the most important and most anciently received is thrift. This is an everliving green herb, that grows thick and bushy, and may be trimmed with a garden shears, in some handsome shape ; and in the sum- mer it sends forth many short stalks of pleasant flowers. Yet it is objected to this plant, that a considerable part of it is apt to perish, both from the cold of winter and the drought of summer, so that it is deformed by many void places or gaps, that require every year to be filled up. Its thickness of growth becomes the shelter of snails, so that gilliflowers and some other rare plants are frequently spoiled by them. Germander is another herb which was formerly much used for bordering, because it will grow thick, and may be kept in good form and proportion by cutting. The cuttings are also much used as a strewing herb for houses. But this plant is apt to die, and grow out of shape ; the stalks become too large for convenience, and the roots are apt to spread themselves within the beds and spoil them. For this reason it requires to be dug up and reset as often as once in three or four years. Hyssop has also been used to set about a knot, and being sweet, will serve for strewings, like germander. But the tops of the hyssop are liable to perish, while the roots do mischief by spreading. Marjoram, savory, and thyme, all sweet herbs, are used likewise for edgings, but these will serve only for one year's use, and soon decay. Therefore, neitlier these, nor those first mentioned, does he recommend. Lavender cotton, being finely slipped and set, is valued both for the beauty and form of the licrb, and being over-living and abiding green all tlie winter, may, by cutting, be kept in as good shape as any other herb. But this will finally grow stubbed and perish in some places, especially where tlie eun lies and dissolves upon it. Jle speaks at last of box ; and chiefly al)ove all otiier lierhs commends it, as being low and small, and serving very well to set out any knot or border any beds. It is an evergreen, and being reasonably thickset it can be easily trimmed into any shaj)e or fa^jhion ; and, as it grows very slowly, it is long bcA)re it rises so high or grows BO bushy as to ho inconvenient. This he commends and FEBRUARY. 63 holds to be the best and surest herb to abide fair and green in all the bitter storms of winter, and in all the heats and droughts of summer; and it recompenses the want of a good scent, with its fresh verdure, its even proportions and its du- ration. To prevent the roots of the box from extending into the borders, he recommends a broad pointed iron, like a slice or a chisel, to be thrust down and cut away the spreading roots, all along the inside of the beds. The author concludes these instructions with some remarks on certain vulgar errors respecting plants and flowers. The first confutes the notion that flowers can be made double by planting them according to certain observations of the changes of the moon, and the constellations or conjunctions of planets. He denies that, if these circumstances have any such effect in the ordering of Providence, that the art of man has ever discovered the method whereby they will produce these effects. He denies also that single flowers have ever been made double by frequent transplantation or by using rich soil: but in re- gard to this last consideration, it may be remarked that he had not the full experience of modern florists. Concerning colors and scents, the many rules, and direc- tions found in books, to cause flowers to grow yellow, red, green, or white, that were not so naturally ; as also to cause them to be of the scent of cinnamon or musk or what not ; when put to the trial will vanish away like smoke. They say, if you shall steep your seeds in the lees of red wine, you shall have the flowers of those plants to be of a purple color. If you would have lilies or gilliflowers to be of a scarlet red color, you must put vermilion or cinnabar between the rind and the small heads growing about the root. If you would have them blue, you must dissolve "AzurorByse" between the rind and the heads; if yellow, orpiment; if green, verdigris, and thus of any other color. Others advise to open the head of the root, and pour into it any color dis- solved ; and whatever color you put in, just such or near it will be the color of the flower. Some again, advise to water the plants with liquors of such color as you would impart to the flower. To make roses yellow, you should graft a white rose upon a brown stalk, and the flower will be yellow. The 64 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. same is affirmed if a rose be grafted on a barberry bush, be- cause both the wood and the flower of the barberry are yellow. It is also affirmed, that by putting cloves, musk, cinnamon, benzoin, or any other sweet thing, bruised, with rose water, between the bark and body of trees, their fruit will smell and taste of the same that is put into them ; and if they be put into the tops of the roots, or bound into the head of the root, they will cause a similar smell in the flowers. All these directions are set down confidently in certain books, as if they were matters of established certainty ; yet he assures the reader that they are all mere idle tales and fancies ; with- out foundation or the shadow of reason or truth. The re- mainder of the volume is devoted to the description of all known herbs, trees, and shrubs which in his time were culti- vated in gardens. SCIENTIFIC GARDENING. BY ALFRED CHAMBERLAIN. Though the science of gardening is coeval with civilization, its greatest development is always to be found in places which nature seems to have marked out for desolation, rather than in those tropical regions where she has done so much that man is, as it were, only required to pluck the fruit suspended above his head. We are thus reminded that labor alone can accomplish wonders and fix the admiration of mankind. Three nations of antiquity claim priority of race, the Babylonians, the Assyrians, and the Egyptians. The Babylo- nians occupied a country so remarkably flat, that the extreme heat often forced them to retire for sleep to apartments exca- vated beneath the earth. Rain was almost unknown to them ; but two rivers, swollen by the rains of higher regions, over- flowed their banks every year, leaving vast ponds, which by means of artificial canals watered the country. Thus Babylon, dry by nature, became by art remarkably fertile. Semiramis turned the course of one of these rivers, and, in the space of FEBRUARY. ' 65 two hundred and sixty days, built a subterranean palace in its natural bed ; having done this she allowed the river to flow back, and luxuriated in this cool retreat connected with the upper palace. But it was not to her, as has been siip- posed, but to the caprice of a Persian mistress of a Syrian king named Cyrus, that Babylon owed her hanging gardens. She, accustomed to behold meadows and fruit gardens orna- menting the sides of her native mountains, wished for some- thing to remind her of home, and asked the all-powerful king to overcome the flat nature of the country by art. To please her he caused to be constructed a square garden, with sides covering four acres each, and ascending gradually — the ave- nues of approach being, at intervals, adorned with appropriate buildings, giving it the air of a theatre. These platforms of approach rose supported upon arches which served to sustain its weight, mounting almost imper- ceptibly one above the other. The last, however, was fifty cubits high, sustaining the front of the gallery, which was exactly regular through its entire length. It was placed upon a species of extremely solid pillars, the base of each of which was 484 square feet. As these pillars were only ten feet apart, they were connected by blocks of stone, sixteen feet long and four feet thick. These stones sustained a floor of reed-grass, which was united by vast quantities of bitumen ; on this was a second floor of bricks of double thickness, fastened together. Over this again came a third floor of lead, thus preventing the moisture of the earth above from penetrating to the walls. So great a quantity of earth was then transported to the spot that it sufficed for the largest trees to take root, and the garden contained a great number of every species, of vast size and remarkably beautiful. As the light of day passed freely between the pillars, several magnificent apartments were formed in the latter; a single one was hollow from top to bottom. In this were the pumps which went down to the river and supplied all the water. So well was this contrived, that no one unacquainted with the fact could tell whence the water was drawn. VOL. XXVIII. — NO, II. 5 66 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. For the above account, we are indebted to a French version of Diodorus of Sicily, by the Ahh6 Terrasson, for "Baby- lon, learned and wise, hath perished utterly, nor leaves her speech one word to aid the sigh that would lament her." The same love of flowers which produced this monument of ingenuity still exists in man ; and whether we erect pala- tial orchard-houses, such as Governor Sprague is now construct- ing, or cultivate our little garden plot, or even tend a box of shrubs on the window-sill or house-top, we are alike acknowl- edging the great truth that a love of gardening is deep rooted in our hearts. As the green leaf which the dove brought to the Ark showed that the Deluge was giving way, so, in every city, the spot where we find a plant or a ti'ee marks the boundary be- tween the home of honest industry and the regions devoted to brutality and vice. Eugene Sue well understood this when he caused his heroine to cherish her faded rose-bush ; and the author of Pichiola had the key to the human heart when he founded his story on the gradual development of a plant, from the stones of a prison, to cheer the eye of the captive and give him an interest in life. Perhaps I may be pardoned for here remarking that it was the observation of this contest between the love of floricul- ture, instinctive to us all, and the absorbing progress of brick and mortar, which first induced me to study the practicability of suspending flowers in the air, by means of " hanging bas- kets," and substituting chemical nutriment for earth needed for other purposes. At first, I only aimed at bringing the luxury of fruits and flowers within the reach of all; but I have gradually come to believe that the substitution of na- ture, in this form, for bad imitations will raise the tone of theatrical representation, and make actors more pleased with those parts where formerly they had to eat a plaster peach or smell a pasteboard rose. If I have met with oi)position, I liavc also had success. We often hear peo})le speak " of looking from nature up to nature's God"; but we realize the full force of the expression as we gaze on the first evidence of opening spring, or, after months of city life, luxuriate for the first time amidst rural scenery. FEBRUARY. 67 Whilst other professions have been thought worthy of all the development of American enterprise, gardening, which ministers at once to our moral and physical wants, has been sadly neglected ; yet in our hearts we acknowledge that " The rose which lives its little hour Is prized beyond the sculptured flower." It is the high province of horticultural associations to make gardening popular with all classes, and raise the social posi- tion of the gardener by directing his attention to botany as well as landscape gardening. Some account of the origin of these two branches may not be uninteresting. Passing over the description of the garden of Alcinous, which had its ori-- gin in the imagination of "the blind old man of Scio's rocky isle," we find that Aristotle first imbued his disciple, Theo- phrastus, with a desire to study the nature of Plants; and that Rome knew little of our science till the time of Dioscori- des, who lived in the reign of Nero, and of Pliny the natural- ist, who died in the latter part of the reign of Titus. Pliny has given very full accounts of his own gardens; but want of time, and your own acquaintance with the subject, induce me to pass on. In the days of the Emperor Hadrian, Rome kept lip vast standing armies upon her frontiers. Into these, to guard against the heat of July and August, they introduced long colonnades and verdant cloisters, and hence arose the " Topiary art," so called from a Greek word meaning rope, since ropes were used to bend over the trees. This art, re- vived in Europe in the 17th century, was carried to such per- fection, that Casaubon tells of a specimen near Paris, repre- senting the Trojan war, men, horses, and all, being admirably represented by figures of living verdure. This art has now become well known through various treatises on arboriculture. Our own expedition to Japan shows us the perfection to which that people had brought the process of dwarfing and enlarging shrubs at pleasure. Under the heading "Horticul- ture," we read: "In this department the Japanese were very skilful. They possessed the art in a wonderful degree, either of dwarfing or of unnaturally enlarging all natural produc- tions. As an evidence of the first, may be seen, in the min- iature gardens of the towns, perfectly mature trees of various 68 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. kinds, not more than tliree feet liigh, and with heads about three feet in diameter. These dwarfed trees are often placed in flower pots. Fischer says, that he saw in a box, four inches long, one and a half wide, and six in height, a bamboo, a fir, and a plum tree, all thriving, and the latter in full blossom." The Japanese, in order to thus subjugate nature, must have studied deeply the science of botany, and I shall now attempt a slight sketch of the rise and progress of that science in Europe. During the middle ages Botany made little progress ; but in the 15th century it revived, and Brunfels of Mentz, Jerome Tragus, and Leonard Fuchsius, wrote the results of their observations in Europe. In the 16th century, Lecluse, called Olusius, described with precision plants that he had noticed ; so also did Conrad Gesner of Switzerland, Cesalpin in Italy, the brothers Bauhin and Magriol in France, and Ray in England. In the 17th century, the microscope was discovered, and by its aid, Malpighi, so early as 1676, and Graw in 1682, discussed almost every question of vegetable structure. The 18th century produced Joseph Pelton, better known as Tournefort, from the name of his place. He first discovered the genders of plants, and classified them ac- cording to the presence or absence of the corolla. Next came Linnjeus of Sweden, who perfected and simplified the system of Tournefort. But the most perfect classification upon natural principles is due to Antoine Laurent de Jussieu, Avlio published his great work in 1789. This attention to the science of botany, naturally led to the establishment of botanic gardens. The first of these was tliat of Pisa, in 1543. Tiie first opened in France was that of Montpellicr, in 1597. That of Paris was not erected till 16o6. It now contains over 60,000 living plants. In imita- tion of this, every capital of Europe has now its botanic gar- den. Landscape gardening was introduced into France by Louis XIV., who employed Lc Notre and La Quintinie, in laying out the gardens of the Tuileries and Versailles, about the same time tliat Sir \Vm. Temple was describing Moor Park, and William IIL was teaching Swift to cut asparagus. Then, too, was the Chinese school introduced into England. Kent was the father of the English school of gardening ; FEBRUARY. 69 Brown perfected it. But England is indebted to America for her choicest plants and trees. The London Times acknowl- edges this as follows: "The private exhibition of American plants attracted a brilliant assemblage to Ashburnham Palace, the abundance of Rhododendrons producing a brilliancy of effect that could scarcely be excelled." The Morning Post speaks of a collection at Woking, as being the most extensive in England, and adds : "Those who only know the Rhododen- drons by the examples we see in our parks and public gardens or in private, can form but a faint idea of the gorgeous splen- dor which a collection of many hundreds of that beautiful evergreen in full blossom and arranged with due regard to form and hue is capable of displaying." How humiliating to the American traveller must it be to learn the names of these gems of his native land from strangers, and not to have a scientific knowledge of tliose trees which cause America to take a high place in the gardens and parks of Europe. I trust that some patriotic individual will yet establish a pro- fessorship in some of our Universities, devoted to the study of American plants, and that a botanic garden may arise, where foreign and native-born plants may meet the eyes of foreign and native-born citizens, and, typical of the union of the offspring of two hemispheres, minister equally to the glory of the American Union. CORDON TRAINING OF FRUIT TREES, ADAPTED TO THE ORCHARD HOUSE AND OPEN-AIR CULTCJRE. BY REV. T. COLLINS BRE'HAUT. SEASONS FOR PLANTING AND PRUNING. The season for planting is a busy, and it must be confessed, a somewhat harrassing period. It is " dig sine otio." The time which succeeds the first rest of the sap, that is, the early part of winter, is the most suitable for the work in hand. If neglected, then that period which immediately precedes the first movements of vegetation is the best. As to young trees in the orchard house, any time during 70 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. winter will do for them. If they are ready to bear, of course, the less tlicy are disturbed late in the season the better their chance of setting tlieir crop will be. But then, these trees can be bought now ready potted, and thus a new house may be stocked at any time. If destined to continue in pots, when carefully packed, no injury is done to them, and if for plantation in the borders, they are equally ready, summer and winter, with ordinary care ; and therefore a tree estab- lished one or two years in a pot is ready for any use. For out-door planting, if not on too large a scale, trees thus potted are far the safest; their roots are more established, and are infinitely more full of fibres, and the indispensable spongioles are not cut off in transplanting. This is the rule in the case of more valuable and delicate trees: pears, plums, and apples are easily managed. By having a portion of your trees in pots, you may be ready for your house if not already built, aiid time will thus be gained. You may house them, or leave them out of doors near some sunny spot, protecting the surface of the pots from drenching rains, by a few slates. Some branches placed to windward, and a mat around them, will preserve any fruit tree from injury ; or it may so happen that a friend has a spare corner in his own orchard house, or a slight shed can be run up. All these are simple means and obvious resources, if the season for planting should come on us before we are quite ready to undertake the whole at one single time.* As to out-door planting on a larger scale, a mild day with a gentle sun-heat is tlie most favorable time. Never plant the trees on a level ivith the surface soil, but let them be raised up above it in their own little niound, some four inches above tlie surface. By the end of the first season tlie natu- ral subsideJice of tlie ground will bring them to their proper * This advice is for tlio mild climate of Great Britain ; in this country such protection is insufficient, as tlie Novcniher and later frosts would freeze the earth in the pots, ami not only injure tlie roots, — which should never he allowed to freeze, — hut the pots would he hrokcn. If there is no place to house them safe from frost, the pots or tuhs should he sunk six inches helow flie siir/hrn in a drj soil, and covercil with a foot of leaves or strawy manure, and here they should not he left out later tluin the middle of Deceniher. The proper place is a cellar where tin; frost does not penetrate. — Ki>. FEBRUARY. 71 level. This is very important to bear in mind, l)ut is very seldom attended to, althougli it is ruinous to the tree to neg- lect this precaution.* The earth from the bottom of the pit, which should be am- ple and large, should be placed in one side of the hole, and that which came from the surface on the opposite side. Tlien when your tree is planted, the upper soil should be placed near the roots at the bottom, and the earth from tlie lowest part, mixed with some leaf-mould and sand, will serve well for the top. Place the tree on a gentle mould in the centre of the hole, lightly powder the earth over and between the central roots, but press down rather firmly the earth over the extremities of the roots, having first well spread them flatly in every direction. A stake to wliich the tree shall be firmly tied completes the operation, not, however, forgetting to have the name of the tree written on a label attaclied to it. Zinc, or wood painted, is best for labels. Avoid all stim- ulating manures in contact with the tender fibrous roots, ad- ding only vegetable mould, and calcareous matter with it. No tree should be planted in damp situations ; but if this be unavoidable, a drainage of four to six inches of stones, or oyster shells, will tend to remedy this. There is some variety in the soils proper to the various kinds of fruit-trees. The plum, the cherry, and the apricot, require an argilo-calcareous soil. The situation should be rather more moist than dry, and they will do well where there is no great depth of soil. It is useful to remember this ; because light soils, especially if at all sandy, are not adapted for peaches. These require a firm and rather unc- * This is another item of advice which is not altogether applicable in our dry climate. A great deal has been written about planting trees too deep, and it is well that cultivators should understand that such an error should be avoided. But on the contrary it is not absolutely necessary to the success of the trees that they should be planted " on their own little mound above the surface," and that it is " ruinous" to neglect it. All good cultivators advise planting the quince hdow the surface, and of thousands of trees so managed we have not yet seen the first instance of failure. In regard to other trees, the rule should be, to plant level with the surface, so as to fairly cover the roots, unless in a swamp, and then " its own little mound " may be safest. Our hot sun, and long summer droughts, would soon exhaust all the moisture from these little mounds, and leave the tree to perish. — Ed. 72 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. tuous loam, — deep, but permeable, — and they must have abundance of calcareous matter,* In the case of wall trees, the borders should not be less than six feet broad, and should slope gently downwards, and be well drained. This is indis- pensable in the case of peaches. These borders should never be cropped. No early potatoes should ever be allowed to en- croach on the ground devoted to wall trees. Fork lightly up these borders, removing the weeds, but unless the soil be very heavy do not dig them up. Mulch the borders in July, but never before that month ; because the ground is not warmed enough till that period to shade it from the sun by mulching: but after that time this operation is invaluable, as it checks evaporation and saves watering. In the late autumn lightly fork in this mulching, which will then be quite friable. You may renew it in the summer, as occasion requires; indeed, the proper time to nourish the tree is during growing and bearing season, and not when it should be at rest, — that is, in the winter. In cold localities, however, mulching in win- ter has the advantage of protecting the surface roots from the frost. The pear also requires a good deep soil, but not retentive of moisture. Leaf mould (very old manure), but not near the roots : loam and sand together form an excellent compost. Moor earth near rivers must be well drained in heaps, and a little unslaked lime added to correct it. If the soil be too heavy in any case, powdered charcoal, or burnt earth, are the usual palliatives. The apple (wliich unfortunately is generally considered lit for any situation) prefers, on the contrary, a rather drier soil than the pear, and if in rather a gravelly spot, so much the better. Canker proceeds from neglect of this, a fertile * Tliis is the very opposite of the ndvic'C of Anicricnn cultivators, wliich is to plant tlic peach in lij,Mit soils. Indeed, no soil has been thouj;ht too lijrht for the peach, except a perfect sand. We are inclined to helieve that niucii of the decay of our peach orchards, and tlic so-called disease of the yellows, is to he attrihiitetl to a lon<; course of starnition, a))plied to tiie iieach tree. Certainly it can do no liarni to try u (generous treatment, and allow it to have a decent soil, and a little manure. We know that no such tiling as the yellows exists in (Jreat Britain, and wc know too that the finest lookinp; peaches — to say nothing about their tl;iv„,- — arc raised on walls and iiudrr t^lass in tliat crmialc.— 1'"d. FEBRUARY. 73 source of discussion. The unwholesome sub-soil supplies vitiated food to the spongiolcs, and the sap thus corrupted brealvs out at the weakest portion of the bark. Sometimes, however, the conjuncture of a sudden excess of pruning is the cause of this fatal disease, as it is of gum in other trees. Therefore, in weak trees, especially in the tender apricot, do not prune all the trees at one single time. On a due atten- tion to the soil proper for each variety depends, in a very great measure, the success of the whole matter. No expense or care bestowed in this way, nor attention to these details, can ever be thrown away. There is no doubt that pruning during the summer months^ is too much neglected. There are so many demands upon the precious hours at this period, that this indispensable act has not often its due attention ; then, when the winter sur- prises us, we are apt to find a huge, entangled, overgrown mass to unravel, demanding very much more labor and skill. This is a vicious custom with unskilful gardeners, because a severe use of the knife in the winter is to tliem the great resource and panacea for all evils. All their errors, they think, are thus obliterated until the next season's wood shall recommence. A tree severely cut back, and tightly nailed in, looks so very knowing, and argues so much forethought! No matter the age or kind of tree, a smart semicircle is de- scribed over its unhappy limbs, and branch after branch disap- pear "at one draw." The employer, meanwhile, looks on with amazement and wonder. The growth, progress, and periods of repose required by nature are highly suggestive to the thoughtful mind. The period of rest is now come, that of active labor ceases. All that was necessary to be done should have been accomplished before the stage of repose. Some little supplementary work still remains, for plants, as well as animated beings, are never idle ; but the severer dis- cipline applied to the tree should not be reserved for the win- ter pruning. During their stage of growth, superabundant vigor is restrained and checked, because at that early period wounds are not so difficult to heal, and the mere growth of the tree will soon cause them to disappear. A tree neglected during the summer will soon show signs of this forgetfulness. 74 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. It will tlieii be no proper remedy to use the pruning knife with energy. It is as in life ; we can only hope with reason to turn aside the violence of a wrong bias at the outset. An even balance sliould be preserved ; no part of the whole sys- tem should run riot while the remainder unfairly languishes. Neither should winter pruning ever take place during a frosty season, for the knife lacerates the hardened wood and induces decay. To delay the pruning till the tree begins to feel the first movements of spring vegetation is also pernicious, for then the check is too great. In the case of the peach, however, a mere beginner had better delay his pruning until he can fairly distinguish be- tween a flower bud and a leaf bud. Should the number of trees be great, the proper plan would be to commence with apricots, then the peaches ; after these the plums, the cherries and the pears, reserving the ap- ples for the last. A simple rule, but not generally known. It is best to have more than one pruning knife, for peach pruning demands a sharp-pointed instrument. To save time, a pair of strong pruning scissors is very con- venient. With scissors the work is very rapidly done ; there is nevertheless this disadvantage in their use, that they must be kept very sharp, or the buds will be quite torn away. Besides, it is impossible to cut very near to the buds, so that at the winter pruning another clean cut must be made with a sharp knife nearer to the part selected. These cuts must always be made " at one draw" (as gar- deners say), fur the sake of appearance, and that the wounds may heal mure ra|)idly. DEFECTS OF SOME METHODS OF FRUIT CULTURE. No doul>t the climate of our country has many faults to answer for; its severe spring frosts arc indefensible ; its vicis- situdes are liighly reprehensible ; and as to its autunnial gales, which shake off tlie hupes of the season j)riur tu th>'ir comi)lete maturity, — if that period ever does uccur, according to a noted French autliority, — the least a patriot can say in their defence, the better lor his truthliiiiu'ss.* * With tliis honest confession, seldom admitted, our American cultivators can FEBRUARY. 75 But has tlio art of Plorticulture nothing to answer for? It is true we can point to noble examples, sucli as Lindley, Rivers, Thompson, Knight, or Duliamel,Van Mons, and many others; but it is when gardening is practiced by men of mod- erate incomes that we are astonished at its mediocre results. The chief reason is, that the lower class of hired gardeners is often ignorant, prejudiced, and traditional in a wonderful degree. But so widely spread is the love of gardening, that very large sums are yearly spent even by persons of limited incomes, on their fruits and flowers. But the results are really disproportionate. How seldom is a well-kept garden to be seen.. How seldom does the proprietor know the reason of his numerous failures. This little work is offered therefore in the simple hope of helping some such person, who, having less leisure, cannot do as I have done, follow up my own trees, year after year, note- book in hand. My experience on this account- cannot be val- ueless to him, and I have therefore freely given it. One grand defect which is observable in the general treat- ment of fruit trees is, that very little difference is made in the care bestowed ou tlie various kinds. The dormant buds, which are the hopes of ensuing seasons, are treated on similar principles, the consequence of which is, that the centre of the tree is denuded of fruit, and an appear- ance of age is, by this means, induced, long before tlie tree has reached the period of decadence. As the sap ascends far more powerfully in the main channels than in the more distant and fee')ler portions, one would suppose that this would be a guiding principle in the treatment of the wliole tree. But, instead of this, what do we generally see ? In a few years, by unskilful pruning, the whole of the centre of the wall-trees and the interior parts of standards, are without fruit. It now abounds at the extremities of the branches ; and, year after year, retires further and further from the centre of all. Large bare spaces are visible on every tree. Invaluable south walls are profitless ; and there is no remedy but to cut back the unhappy tree. duly appreciate the enthusiasm in orchard culture in Great Britain — an actual necessity — and not, as with us, auxiliary to the production of the best fruit. — Ed. 78 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICUXTURE. But, independently of the disfigurement of the garden wall, and the serious loss of time, this cutting back is an ab- surd and unnecessary plan. In the case of the peach, it hardly ever succeeds at all ; especially if done in the winter, as is generally the case. Any method which should obviate this precessity must be useful, and, undoubtedly, " Cordon training" does this, as will be shown. By keeping close to the centre of our work, instead of wearing out the whole, we refresh and stimulate incessantly the latent energies of the tree, because we seek for them in their chief source, where nature has placed them — the main stem. On the contrary, it is evident that an irregular excita- tion of particular and distant portions, while the remaining (and far more important parts) are left languishing and inert, must end in confusion, inferiority of production, and diminution of the flavor of fruit. As to the tree itself, it cannot fail to decay in some place or other, and be finally condemned as a disfigurement to the garden. Anotlier radical defect in fruit culture is the vicious cus- tom of too rapidly inclining the bearing branches towards the horizontal line. By this plan the lowest stage must inev- itably become the shortest and the most feeble, while, by all the rules of harmony, it should be the longest. This defect once commenced is fatal and irremediable, and some of the best portions of the wall and tree are lost for ever. Many trees are trained fan-wise, and this, with proper pre- cautions, is suitable only for strong growing varieties, and for those which, like the pear, are of long duration. But, on the authority of M. Dubrcuil, even the pear re- quires about sixteen years to reach to the top of an ordinary wall, admitting the necessity of a proper lateral extension. On the same autliority, it is certain that the life of the peach is not viiluable after twenty years, and if half of that period, at /east, l)e spent in raising it to the summit, it is evident that it only arrives there wlien on the point of diniinisliing in pro- duction. Duiing tiie time, tiiereforc, that these trees, and others also, are reaching to the utmost limits assigned to them, the valualde wall space is unoccupied and useless. FEBRUARY. 77 This very serious defect has led to the introduction of tlic "Cordon system," by which the space of time required to cover a given superficies is abridged by two-thirds. x\.s life is too precious to be wasted,. and we naturally look for speedy returns for all the care and money which we bestow, if tliis system can really shorten the period of fructification, without corresponding disadvantages, it would be very proper to adopt it in preference to older methods, especially as it is adapted for all purposes required, and for all varieties cultivated. POMOLOGICAL GOSSIP. The Strawberry. — Our occasional correspondent, Mr. Prince, is writing upon the strawberry, its sexual character, otanical sense, almost mediaeval. For instance, Epi- (Icndrum moniliforme, is a Dendrohium ; Limodorum cnsa- tum is a Cymbidium ; there is, however, the singular Cypri- p(idium japonicum worth the attention of the curious, and FEBRUARY. 87 three other orchids, rejoicing in the names Kauran, Nagiran and Nagoran, but whether terrestrial or epiphytal the Cata- logue does not say. In conclusion, a good many Ferns have reached Europe, but they are not named. No prices are given in the Catalogue. Those who wish to purchase should address Messrs. Siebold & Co., at Leyden. New Species of Zinnia. — Among the annuals collected to- gether last summer in the garden of the Royal Horticultural Society, at Chiswick, we noticed a new and distinct species of Zinnia, which may be called Zi'nnia au'rea. It was said to be a Mexican plant, and had been received as a Sanvitalia from that country. Its distinguishing features were its dwarf bushy habit of growth, its hairy branches, its sessile ovate lanceolate leaves, and its orange yellow flower-heads, measur- ing about an inch and a half across. It has certainly tlie merit of distinctness, and, if it will bloom in sufficient abundance, its dwarf branching habit will recommend it as a border an- nual. We mention the plant in order to direct towards it the attention of the..growers of annuals. The Chiswick plants did not come into flower till late in the season, and were not very favorably placed, so that the true character of the plant was hardly developed. The plants formed individually, spreading tufted masses of about a foot in height, with the stems branch- ing freely in a dichotomous manner, and the branchlets all terminated by one of the bright-colored heads, in which the ray florets were crowded, broadly obovate, and of a rich orange yellow, the disk with its dark-tipped pointed scales, being of a deeper orange, and somewhat prominent. The finest New Roses. — The Rev. W. P. Radclifle, one of the best amateur cultivators of roses, recommends the fol- lowing as the finest of the newer varieties : — 1st. Eugene Appert, Empereur de Maroc, Comtesse Cecele Chabrillan, Dr. Bretonneau, Stephanie Beauharnois, Georges Dupont, George Peabody, Souvenir d'Elize, Celine Forester, Octavie Fontaine, Marie Thierry, Monsieur Jard, Reine de la Cite, and Francis Arago. 2d. Later novelties, viz.. Mad. Furado, Triumph d' Amiens, Washington, La Boule d'Or, M. Melaine Parmentier, Duo de 88 THE MAGAZLXE OF HORTICULTURE. Cases, Gloire de Santhenay, Senateur Yaisse, Mad. Louise Carique, M. Chas. Crapelct, Belle de Bourg La Reine, M. Bonnaire, Victor Verdier, and L'Elegant. Tliese are all, he says, good roses. 611. HOTA LACUNOSA, VAR. PALLIDIFLORA . PaLE-FLOWERED Furrowed Hoya. (Asclepiadeae.) Java. Hot. Mas., 1861, pi. 5272. A pale-flowered variety of H. lacunosa, of no particular beauty, and only interesting in extensive collections. Flow- ers small and nearly white. (^Bot. Mag-., Oct.) 612. MuTi'siA decurrens Cav. Decurrent-leayed Mutisia. (Compositege.) South America. A. greenhouse Dlant; grow ing 4 to 5 feet lii^h; with brilliant orange-colored flowers; appearing ill summer; increased by cuttings; grown in liyht rich soil. Bot. Mng., 1861, pi. 5-73. The genus Mutisia is " remarkable for the peculiar habit of the species, generally scandent, with cirrhose leaves, and for the great size and rich coloring of the flowers." The present plant is a late introduction from the Andes, and flowered in the nurseries of Messrs. Veitch last summer. It is a truly splendid species, with flowers four to five inches in diameter, somewhat in shape and appearance like the Gazania, but of a very brilliant orange color. The leaves are narrow, alternate, with a tendril at the apex by which it climbs, and decurrent at the base ; the flowers appear on long stems at the axils of the leaves. It stood out the severe winter of 1860 unharmed, and without shelter. As it flowers in summer it may prove a valuable addition to our collections, treated like other half-hardy plants, turned out into the border, and lifted and protected by the frame or greenhouse in winter. As we have few climbing plants of the Compositaj order, it will form a pleasing and showy variety. {Bot. Mag-., Oct.) 613. Salvia cacali^flo^ra Benlh. Cacalia-leaved Sage. (Labiatcaj.) Mexico. A eidi'iilidiisc iiliiiii; tiriiwiiin two Irct hiuh; wiili dci'P lil"i' flowers; iiii|ii'iirlnu in tiuninuT; propii4iiteil by cnltiiCN; trown i?i liooil rich hoil Hot. Mim., Ihlil, pl. 'i-71. Tliis j)retty plant we liavo ah'cady noticed. It was intro- duced by ]\Ir. Linden from Mexico, and it flowered ubuiuhuit- FEBRUARY. 89 ly ill our collection the past season. As a bedding plant it is a fine acquisition. The flowers are of the same rich blue as S. patens, but not so large and showy; it has, however, a bushy habit, grows rapidly, blooms abundantly, and forms a rich contrast with S. splendens and fulgens. (^Bot. Mag., Oct.) 614. Gonata'nthus sarmento^sus Link. Kl. 8f Otto. Sar- MENTOSE GoNATANTEUS. (AroideEC.) Himalaya. A stove plant ; growing three feet high ; with yellowisli flowers ; appearing In summer ; increased by offsets ; grown in light peaty soil. Bot. Mag., IbBl, pi. 5275. This pretty plant was separated from the genus Caladium, by Dr. Klotzsch, under the name of Gonatanthus, and is the only species thus far. The separation is made from the gen- iculated character of the tube of the spathe. It has large cordate ovate dark green leaves, ten inches long, and throws up long stems terminating with yellowish convolute leaves a foot long. It requires the same treatment as the caladiums. {Bot. Mag., Oct.) 615. Impatiens flaccida Am. Sopt-leaved Balsam. (Balsaminese.) India. A stove plant; growing a foot high -, with rich purple flow-ers; appearing in spring; increased by cuttings; grown in light rich soil. Bot. Mag., 1851, pi. 5276. A lovely species from Ceylon, on mountains at an elevation of 4,000 to 6,000 feet. The flower stems of the plant are reddish, and the flowers opening nearly flat, are an inch or more in diameter. The whole habit is neat and slender, and it is much the handsomest of the hothouse species of this pretty family. (^Bot. Mag., Oct.) 616. Vacci'nium Imrayi Hook. Dr. Imray's Vaccinium. (Yacciiiiacege.) Dominica. A greenhouse shrub; growing two feet high ; with yellowish-green flowers; appearing in spring; increased by cuttings ; grown in sai;dy peat and leaf mould. Bot Mag., 1661, pi. 5279. A remarkable looking species, which forms a handsome evergreen shrub, with glossy coriaceous leaves. The flowers are large, and remarkable for their uniform yellow-green, un- usual in this genus, and for the coriaceous texture of the corollas. The flowers appear in rather compact terminal co- rymbs; the anthers are of an orange color. (^Bot. Mag., Nov.) 90 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. 617. HiGGl'NSIA REGALIS Hook. ROTAL HiGGINSIA. (Rubl- aceae.) South America. A stove plant; sfrowing a foot hi^h; with variesated leaves ar.d yellovr flowers; appearins; in summer; increased by cuttings; grown in Itat'mould, sand, peat aid loam. Eoi.Mag., 18dl,pl.5L80. This is the now popular and beautiful variegated plant known as Campylobotrys regalis, introduced by Mr. Linden. It is one of the richest and most attractive of foliaged plants. The leaves are large and broad with a prominent midrib, and they are regularly traversed with lateral bands of blackish green ; the underside being of a peculiar rich reddish violet, with conspicuous nerves. Mr. Linden thinks it no exaggera- tion to affirm that it eclipses the magnificent Cyanophyllum. It is a superb acquisition. (^Bot Mag-., Nov.) 618. Stanhopea BUCEPHALUS Lincll. Bull-horned Stan- HOPEA. (Orchidacege.) Eucador. A stove orchid ; with orange-spotted flowtrs. Bol. Mag. 18jI, pi. 527S. One of the richest colored of all the species of the Stan- hopea, having the ground color of a rich tawny orange, marked with deep blood-colored spots ; it yields a powerful fragrance. It flowers in August, and is one of the finest or- chids. (Bot. Mag., Nov.) 619. Phyllaga^this rotundifo^lia Blime. Round-leaved Phyllagathis. (Melastomaceae.) Sumatra. A stove plant; growing three feet high; v\ilh crimson flowers; appearing in summer; increased by cuttings; grown in li^ht peaty soil. Bot. .Mag., 18.)l, pi. 52S2. A pretty melastomaceous plant, "whose charms depend more on the rich color of the foliage than on the beauty of the flowers, though in the present instance we have their color also ; but it is outdone by the rich tints of the leaves, both above and below, and the plaited character of tlic latter, with tbeir strong shadows and reflected lights. It flowers in July and is a fine addition to beautiful foliaged plants. {^Bot. Mag. Nov.) 620. EciiiNA^CEA angustifo'lia De Cand. Naukow-lkaved Echinacea. (Compositeae.) United States. A hardy perennial; iirowinz three feel hish; wilh rose-colored llowiTs; apr. American Pomological Society. — The next meeting of this Society will be held in Boston, commencing on Wednesday, the 17th of September, 186'2. The Annual Exhibition of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society will bo held the same week. This arrangement has been effected to make the visit of horticulturists from other states more interesting, and aflford them an opportunity to witness a grand display of fruit should the season be favorable. The Massachusetts Horticultural Society will do all in their power to make the occasion as pleasant and agreeable as possible. The Executive Committee were authorized to make arrangements to this end. The AiNNUAL Exhibitio.'v of the Massachusetts Horticultural SociEiY will be held in September next, commencing on Tuesday the 16th and continuing till Friday evening the 'iOth. Plants from Japan. — We are pleased to learn that Mr. T. Hogg of New York has boon appointed to the situation of Marshal, and attached to the new embassy to Japan, lion. R. L. Pruyn as minister. We shall look for some acquisitions of choice plants, through the agency of Mr. Hogg. The Fruit (Ikowkrs' Society of Western New York hrld its Seventh Atmual Meeting at the Court House, in the city of Rochester, on the 8th and !)th of January. .\n account of the proceedings is given in the Rural New Yorker, which we shall notice in our next number. FEBRUARY. " 95 poiliculinvcil Operations FOR FEBRUARY. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. The month of January has been mild, the lowest range of thermometer having been 4°. It hiis, however, been cloudy, snowy and rainy more than half the time, and rather unfavorable for early forcing. Grape Viivks in the grapery ^ill now begin to show signs of starting; and as soon as this is perceived they should be syringed every day, and an even temperature maintained until all the eyes are well broken. See that the outside border is well protected with a good covering of manure. In- crease the temperature towards the last of the month, and in sunny weather damp the walks every day. Vines in greenhouses will also begin to push, and will require the same treatment as graperies, with the exception of less syringing, which might be injurious to the plants. Vines in pots, started early and now in floiver or fruit, should have every attention to insure good crops. Strawberries in pots should be more freely watered as the plants be- gin to grow vigorously. Orchard Houses should be still well protected from frost. Root Grafting may be done now where this kind of grafting is prac- ticed Fruit Trees in pots, now in flower or setting their fruit, may be more freely watered and have an abundance of air. flower department. February is a short month, and spring will soon be at hand. Now is the time to push forward all kinds of propagation, whether bedding plants or general stock. Repotting, too, should be attended to before the plants be- gin to make their new growth. Seeds should be planted and preparations made for hotbeds and frames for over-crowded stock. The houses should be rearranged, and plants coming into flower be brought forward to take the place of those going out of bloom. Slightly increase the temperature as the season advances, and air abundantly in all good weather to obtain a strong and stocky growth. Azaleas will now begin to push their buds, unless they are kept in a very cold house ; where this cannot be done, they mny be removed to a cool light cellar, which will retard them sufficiently to bloom in April and May. As they begin to push, they will need more water and occasional syringing till the flowers expand. Young stock may be repotted, and plants in- tended for specimens started int-.) growth immediately. Camellias will be in full bloom. Water more liberally, and repot if the plants really need it. Shade from the hot sun in the middle of the day. Inarching may be done now. 96 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Pelargonicms will be making a stocky growth if properly attended to; increase the temperature slightly, but air abundantly every fair day ; water moderately, tie out the shoots as they advance in growth, and give every plant plenty of room to extend its shoots. Repot all young stock. Cinerarias should now be repotted into their blooming pots ; keep in a rather cool situation near the glass. Pinch out the main shoot, which will cause tlie plants lo throw up several stout blooming shoots : fumigate for the green fly. Amaryllises should be repotted. Caladiums and Begonias should be divided and repotted in light peaty soil, and have a very warm situation. Fuchsias should be encouraged by repotting. Japan Lilies should be repotted. Roses should be repotted, and watered occasionally with liquid manure. Chrysanthemums may be propagated where fine specimen plants are wanted. Seeds of various annuals should be planted. Pansies in pots should be repotted. Neapolitan Violets in frames, now brought into the house, will bloom abundantly. LiLiuM GiGANTEUM should be repotted. Heaths out of bloom should be removed to the coolest part of the house. Gloxinias and Achimenes may be potted and started in a hotbed. Monthly Carnations should be repotted. Cuttings may be put in for a young stock. Cyclamens should now have more liberal supplies of water. Sow seeds for new stock. Repot, tie up, and put in order miscellaneous plants of various kinds. Propagate Verbenas, Heliotropes, Gazanias, Petunias, Scarlet Gera- niums, Pyrethrums, &c. &.c. vegetable department. Hotbeds should now be got ready for raising all kinds of early vegeta- bles. Throw the manure into a conical heap ; as soon as it begins to heat well, turn it over, siiaking the whole well up. In ten days it will be ready to make the bed, which, at this early season, should be two to three feet high, making it firm, upon which should be placed the frame, filled with six inches of good soil. As soon as it is well heated it will be ready for use. CucuMBtR seeds should be sown in small 4-inch pots. Lettuce seed may be sown in rows in the bed. Tomatoes should be planted in boxes or pots. Seeds of Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower, and other vegetables, may be sown citlior in puts, or directly in the earth. Protect the bed in cold weather with a good covering of bass or straw mats, and regulate tlio lieat by due admission of air — tiie temperature of the muuurc should not exceed 1)0°, and tiiat of the bod from GO to tiO. GRAPES. GiiAPES and grape culture occupy so large a share of atten- tion tliat we deem it unnecessary to make any apology for introducing them so frequently to our readers. There seems a demand for all the information that can be obtained, both as regards the numerous varieties already cultivated, and otliers recommended to notice, and the best method of culti- vation ; and although in either respect we can add but little of our own experience to what we have already stated, we can adduce the evidence of others able and qualified to ex- press their opinion upon these subjects. In our Pomological Gossip, in anotlier page, will be found some very interesting information upon grapes, communicated by an amateur cul- tivator, and, though evidently entliusiastic in all that relates to grapes, his views are so correct, and the experience he has brought to bear upon their culture so important, that we allude to them here as an evidence of how much a real inter- est in any particular branch of fruit growing will add to our stock of information. Improvements in cultivation are rarely the result of accident ; but are rather due to sound judgment, a thorough knowledge of the principles of growth, and a determination to overcome all obstacles to success. In our late article we particularly alluded to the Rebecca, as being the finest of all our native grapes; we stated that " it only needs the right kind of treatment to render it as certain a crop as the Delaware or Diana." Our views are thus fully confirmed, and it appears that a vigorous growth, however obtained, will accomplish this ; and one of the readi- est means of securing this growth is to graft it upon some strong and free-growing stock like the Clinton. So much then has been gained in our knowledge of the culture of this delicious grape. Grapes undoubtedly, like other fruits, require different treatment ; some pears will bear close pruning, while others are only rendered comparatively barren by the same course VOL. XXVIII. — NO. III. 7 98 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. of culture. So with grapes ; the slender-wooded varieties, which ripen their shoots slowly, may need some aid to check redundant growth and secure ripe wood, while other kinds do this naturally and without any care. A little attention, therefore, to these slight defects of habit will enable us to overcome the characteristics of certain kinds, and render them as certain as the most free-growing and robust sorts. Having alluded to tlie best means of imitating the last extremely favorable season, we shall not repeat our advice, but refer to what we then stated as the course of culture to ensure the very best results. It has been our good fortune in years past to present a pomological review of the year from the pen of our friend and correspondent, the Hon, Mr. Cabot of Salem, now Chair- man of the Fruit Committee of the Massachusetts Horticul- tural Society, but, since his performance of that duty, such a review would be but a repetition of the report submitted by him to the Society, and published in its Transactions. We therefore refer with pleasure to his annual report for the season of 1861, and present our readers with his views upon grapes in Massachusetts, satisfied that they will be read with pleasure, and add to our stock of information upon grapes and grape growing throughout the country : — Grape vines, when wholly exposed, even in favorable situa- tions, to the influences of the last winter, and even when partially protected therefrom, were, in most instances, greatly injured ; in some, killed to the ground ; in others, having the leaf and fruit-buds destroyed. Some varieties escaped with less injury tlian others, and among those that the most suc- cessfully resisted the effects of the weather may be named the Delaware and Hartford Prolific. Out of a collection of eight or nine different liardy varieties, these, with the Clinton, were the only varieties that escaped serious harm. But although the winter was so destructive, the past sum- mer and autumn were the most favorable for grapes of any now rcmeml)ered. The mildew, and not the severity of the climate, is the most serious obstacle to the raising of graj)es. Last season there was no niihlew, and varieties thoroughly MARCH. 99 ripened and attained perfect maturity in this vicinity, that rarely, if ever before, were produced in the open air, in this condition, even when grown under peculiarly faA^orablc cir- cumstances. For the first time, in a somewhat lengthened experience, the Isabella seemed to attain perfect maturity. It is true that this variety is often shown well colored and apparently ripe, but this ripeness has been apparent only, for there was a want of the sweetness that belongs to perfectly ripe berries, and even this was only attaii,ied when grown in favorable situations in cities, where shelter was afforded, and the sever- ity of the climate somewhat tempered, while this year they have appeared perfectly ripe, even when grown in open ex- posures ; so that it is felt that the assertion that for the first time this variety thoroughly ripened the past season, is war- ranted. From its peculiarly favorable character, opportunity has been afforded the past season to form an opinion of the quality of some varieties, when grown in favorable climates, and in a state of, or approaching to, perfection ; but this exceptional character of the year should deter the formation of a favorable opinion of the adaptation of such to cultivation ; that should be confined to those sorts that ripen their fruit in ordinary years, and under a less advantageous combination of circum- stances. There have been some new grapes exhibited the past year. Of such, among foreign varieties, the Muscat Hamburgh, a black grape, with berries of medium size, oval shape, rich Muscat flavor, and large bunches, made a very favorable im- pression, and was thought a very fine grape. And the Golden Hamburgh, a new white grape, with large oval berries, was also considered of good flavor ; the vines of both varieties being of a vigorous habit. Of hardy varieties, for out-door culture, the committee have had an opportunity of tasting a new seedling of Mr. E. A. Brackett. It was a large round black grape, heavy bloom, large bunches, thin skin, little or no pulp, very juicy, sweet, and very vinous. Mr. Brackett stated that it was ripe on the 10th September. This has never been publicly exhibited ; a 100 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. few berries of it were shown by Mr. B. to some of his friends in 1858, the first year of its bearing, about the middle of September, who were then very favorably impressed with it. This year, when it bore many bunches, Mr. Brackett presented a bunch to the committee ; those of them who tasted of it formed the highest opinion of its value, and it seemed to them the best and by far tlie most promising new hardy grape that had been brought to their notice. The committee have also the past season had an opportu- nity of testing some new seedling hybrids, from Mr. Edward C. Rogers of Salem, produced by impregnation of the native grape by the Black Hamburgh, Sweetwater, etc. It has for some time been generally known that Mr. Sogers had been engaged in raising new seedling grapes by means of hybridi- zation. Several of them were exhibited by him at the exhi- bition of the Essex County Agricultural Society, at Newbury- port, a few years since, and were mentioned in the reports of that society of that year, and thus for the first time had attention been called to them ; but although this was some time since, they have never been submitted to the committee of the Horticultural Society until this year, and thus must be considered new so far as this society is concerned. These grapes were shown by Mr. Rogers at the annual exhibition, and presented to the committee on 28th September, distin- guished by numbers 1, 4, and 15 ; and again on October 4, when they were in better condition and riper than on the former occasion. No. 1 is a large oval white grape, with a slight amber tinge, juice somewhat watery, of a peculiar fla- vor, with a stringy pulp. It was probably not ripe, and in an \mfit condition to be properly judged of. No. 4 is a large dark purple or black oval grape, with con- siderable pulp, but with a sprightly or vinous juice. No. 15 is a large, round, red or dark amber-colored grape, juicy, with a thin skin, tolerably sweet, and very slightly musky, pcriiaps not quite as vinous as No. 4. Both Nos. 4 and 15 were, in the opinion of tlie committee, good grapes, though thorc was some dilTcrencc of opinion as to wbicb was entitled to the preference. The bunches of all tlu! varieties were of good size. MARCH. 101 No. 15 is very productive ; a vine in the garden of Mr, Wm. H. Harrington, of Salem, three years planted, ripened the past year two hundred good sized bunches. Having seen them but once, and that in a year so exceptional as the past, the expression of any further opinion of the merit of these grapes, and their suitableness for general cultivation, would be liardly warranted. Considered as a purely scientific experiment, that of Mr. Rogers must be deemed an eniinent success ; his seedlings of the first generation have parted with much of the distinctive character of the native variety, and show plainly traces of their foreign parentage. Whether he has met with equal success in originating varieties that shall, from early ripening and hardiness, be suited to the general wants, is yet to be estab- lished. It is earnestly hoped that he has. He has many sorts other than these named, some, it is believed, that have not yet fruited. Although Dr. Van Mons has taught, and apparently estab- lished, a contrary theory — that of improving varieties by raising successive generations of seedlings — and that it may be thouglit presumptuous to call in question the teachings in pomology from such a source, yet some doubt cannot but be entertained that hybridization is in tlie pursuit of this object, viz., the production of improved varieties, essential to success, and that the raising of successive generations of seedling grapes from a native or wild variety under circumstances where admixture of other sorts was impossible, might be pur- sued not for eleven generations, when, according to Van Mons, all the seedlings would be good ; when the naming of varieties would become unnecessary, and propagation by grafting and budding cease, but for double that number, with- out showing any very marked improvement. In a climate so austere as that of Massachusetts, it is be- lieved all varieties of grapes require protection ; that even if some may occasionally escape injury when this has been neg- lected, it cannot be wholly omitted with safety. Much atten- tion of late years has been given to the production of new «^arieties from seed, and a hope, if not a belief, indulged that such attempts would eventuate in the production of hardy 102 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. varieties of good quality, not subject to mildew, that "vrould, in ordinary years, attain maturity in free exposures. And some persons have, it is believed, even gone so far as to an- ticipate that grapes would become the object of extensive cultivation, and the making of wine a regular branch of in- dustry. This may be so, and all their hopes may not be des- tined to prove fallacious. There is certainly reason to think that the list of varieties to be recommended for cultivation may soon be enlarged, probably by Mr. Brackett's seedling, or Mr. Allen's hybrid ; perhaps by some of those of Mr. Rogers, and some others. Beyond this, however, at present, whatever it may be hereafter, no great and acknowledged advance has been made. Those old favorites, the Isabella, the Diana, and the Delaware, neither of recent, and the last of uncertain origin, still seem to maintain their wonted suprem- acy. And other than this, the expectations indulged do not seem, as yet, to have a more substantial basis than a hope. That the rocky hill-sides of Massachusetts are some day to be covered with vineyards, rivalling in their rich luxuriance of foliage and fruit those of France, demands a faith in her capabilities almost equal to that necessary to remove moun- tains, and is a belief not very soon, at least as it is thought; to be realized. At all events, for this at present, there is none other than an imaginary foundation, and the business of the day is with the realities of the time, and not its imag- inings. HALF HOURS WITH OLD AUTHORS. BY WILSON FLAGG. John Gerard. — The Ilerhal, or General History of Plants. Gathered by John Gerard, of London, Master in Chimrgery. 1507. This i.s one (;f tlic most ancient of the Englit^h works on gardening and botany, and one to wliich the most frequent reference is made by sul)scqucnt writers. Gerard was not only one of the most learned botanists of liis age, but he is also remarkable for his quaintness and originality. He says MAECH. 103 but little on the subject of layinj^ out grounds, treating chiefly of particular plants and their cultivation. The re- marks contained in his Preface and Introduction are, however, sufficiently original to be worthy of a retrospective review, and sufficiently old to be new to the most of our readers. Plis eulogy on plants, in his Dedicatory Epistle, is eloquent and poetical. "Among the manifold creatures of God that have in all ages diversely entertained many excellent wits, and drawn them to the contemplation of the divine wisdom, none have provoked men's studies more, or satisfied their desire so much, as plants have done, and that upon just and worthy causes. For if delight may provoke men's labor, what greater delight is there than to behold the earth apparelled with plants, as a robe of embroidered work, set with orient pearls, and gar- nished with great diversity of rare and costly jewels ?" Again he remarks : " The necessary use of the fruits of the earth doth plainly appear by the great charge and care of almost all men in planting and maintaining of gardens, not as ornaments merely, but as a necessary provision also to their houses. And here, beside the fruit, to speak again in a work of delight, gardens, furnished with many rare simples, do singularly delight, when in them a man doth behold a flourishing show of summer beauties in the midst of winter's force, and a goodly spring of flowers, when abroad a leaf is not to be seen. Beside these and other causes, there are many examples of those that have honored this science : for to pass by a multitude of the philosophers, we may call to re- membrance some noble princes, that liave joined this study with their most important matters of state. Mithridates, the great, was famous for his knowledge herein, as Plutarch noteth. Evax, also, king of Arabia, the happy garden of the world for principal simples, wrote of this argument, as Pliny showeth. Dioclesian, likewise, might have had his praise, had he not drowned all his honor in the blood of his perse- cution." He remarks in his address to his readers : "Although my pains have not been spent in the gracious discovery of golden mines, nor in the tracing after silver veins, whereby my na- 104 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. tive country might be enriched with such merchandise as it hatli most in request and admiration ; yet hath my labor, I trust, been otherwise profitably employed, in descrying of such a harmless treasure of herbs, trees, and plants, as the earth frankly, without violence, offeretli unto our most neces- sary uses. Harmless, I call them, because they were such delights as man in the perfectest state of his innocence did erst enjoy; and treasure, I may well term them, seeing both kings and princes have esteemed them as jewels, and since wise men have made their whole life as a pilgrimage to attain to the knowledge of them." Comparing the pleasures that accompany the studies of nature with the cares and perils attending the pursuit of riches, he says : "Behold in the compassing of this worldly dross, what care, what cost, what adventures, what mystical proofs, and chemical trials, are set abroad (alhiding to the refining of metals and other processes attending the coining of money) ; wliereas, notwithstanding, the chiefest end is un- certain wealth. Contrariwise, in the expert knowledge of herbs, what pleasures still renewed with variety ! What small expense ! And yet, what an apt and ordinary means to conduct men to that most desired benefit of health." "The art of simpling (which is the ancient term for botan- izing) is neither so base, nor so contcmi)tible, as the English name may seem to intimate : but such as it is, as altogether hath been a study for the wisest, an exercise for the noblest, a pastime for the best. From whence there spring flowers, not only to adorn the gardens of the muses, but to deck the bosoms of the beautiful, to paint the gardens of the curious, to garnish the glorious crowns of kings ; but s;ich fruit as the learned Dioscorides long travelled for ; and the princely Mithridates reserved as precious in his own closet." We seldom find a more eloquent passage, even in late mod- ern writers, than the following, in which Gerard sets forth the pleasures of a garden : " Talk of perfect happiness or pleasure, what j)lace was so fit for that as the garden, where Adam was set to be the herbarist ? Whither did the poets hunt for their sincere delights, but in the gardens of Alcinous, of Ad- onis, and the orchards of thcllesj)crides? Where did they dream MARCH. 105 that licavcn should be, but in tlic pleasant garden of Elysium ? Whither do all men Avalk for tlieir honest recreation, but thither where the earth hath most beneficently painted her face with flourishing colors ? And what season of the year more longed for than the spring, whose gentle breath enticeth forth the kindly sweets, and makes them yield their fragrant smells ? Who would therefore look dangerously up at planets (Gerard here probably alludes to astrology, which was more in vogue than astronomy in his day,) that might safely look down at plants ? And if true be the old proverb,* Qiice svpra nos, nihil ad nos ; I suppose this new saying cannot be false,* QacB infra nos, ea maxime ad nos. Easy, therefore, is this treasure to be gained, and yet precious. The science is nobly supported by wise and kingly favorites ; the s\ibject thereof so necessary and delectable, that nothing can be confected either delicate for the taste, dainty for smell, pleasant for sight, wholesome for the body, conservative or restorative for health, but it borroweth the relish of an herb, the savor of a flower, the color of a leaf, the juice of a plant, or the decoc- tion of a root." He remarks, in the commencement of his work, that in his history of plants it would be tedious to use by way of intro- duction any curious discourse upon the general division of plants, contained in the Latin under Arbor, Frvtex, Siiffrvtcx, Herba; or to speak of the differing names of their several parts, more in Latin than the English can well express. Li three books, therefore, as in three gardens, he arranged all his plants. In the first book he treats of grasses, rushes, corn, reeds, flags, and bulbous or onion-rooted plants: in the second book, of most sorts of herbs used for meat, for medi- cine, or sweet smelling : in the third, of trees, shrubs, bushes, fruit-bearing plants, &c.; roses, heaths, mosses, mushrooms, coral, and their several kinds. John Gerard was born in 1545, in Cheshire, whence he came to London, and devoted himself to the practice of sur- * Translated ; — "What is above us does not concern us;" on the other hand, "What is beneath us is of the greatest importance to us." That is, we should leave the study of the stars for the more important study of plants. Since astrology, however, has given place to astronomy, it would be hard to prove that the study of the stars is of no importance. 106 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. gerj, in wliicli he gained considerable reputation. His great •work on plants was first published in 1597. In compiling this work, as he remarks, he made use of " divers herbals set forth in other languages." His predecessors, in the English language, were Dr. William Turner and Henry Lyte. Turner wrote a History of Plants, first printed in 1551 ; but the num- ber of plants described in his book was very limited. Henry Lyte translated Dodonaeus, who wrote, in Latin, a work on Fruits and other Plants. The next work in English, after Gerard's Herbal, was the " Paradisus terrestris" of John Parkinson, already noticed in these pages, A new and en- larged edition of Gerard's Herbal, containing nearly 1,000 additional plants, was published in 1633, by Thomas Johnson. It may not be uninteresting to the reader to know what fruits are described by Gerard, as common in England in his time, almost three hundred years ago. Of apples he describes seven kinds : the Pome Water, the Baber-ditch apple, the Queening, or Queen of apples, the Summer Pearmain, the Winter Pearmain, the King of apples, and the Crab apple. In his description of apples he says : The fruit of apples differs in greatness, form, color and taste ; some covered with a red skin, others yellow or green, varying infinitely, accord- ing to the soil and climate." He mentions the quantity of apples raised in Kent, as being so abundant, that of the cider made from them " the parson hath for tithe many hogs- heads." Writing of the pear, Gerard says that every country " luith its peculiar fruit : myself knoweth some one curious in graft- ing and planting of fruits, who hath in one piece of ground, at the point of three score, sundry sorts of pears, and those exceeding good." From this one may infer that the jiear had been multiphed into a greater number of vai'ieties tlian the apple in Gerard's time. The author names seven principal varieties of the cultivated pear, viz. : the Catharine ])ear, the Jenneting, tlie St. James, the Pear Royal, the Pergamut, Ibe Quince pear, the Winter pear. He also describes six kinds of wild ])oar: the Great Choke \)cav, the Small Choke ])ear, the Wild iludgc pear, the Wild Crab j)ear, the Crow ])oar, etc. Gerard describes twelve diflcrcnt species and varielies of MARCH. 107 the cherry, including the common and the wild sorts. His remarks on this fruit will not meet the approbation of many persons in our day. He thinks " the best and principal cher- ries be those that are somewhat sour : those little sweet ones which be wild and soonest ripe be the worst ; they contain bad juice, they very soon putrefy, and do engender ill blood." The " little sweet ones" must be the Bird cherry, called in England the Black-Grape cherry, because it bears its fruit in racemes, like the American " Rum cherry." The Grape cherry, however, is a mere shrub, while the American Black cherry is a tree of second-rate magnitude. Treating of the peach, he says : "I will give you the names of the choice ones, such as are to be had of my friend Mr. Miller, of Old street, which are these : two sorts of Nutmeg peaches, the Queen's peach, the Newington peach, the Grand Carnation Peach, the Carnation peach, the Black peach, the Melocoton, the White, the Romane, the Alberza, the Island peach, the Peach du Troy. These are all good ones. He hath also that kind of peach which some call Nucipersica or Nectarines," of which he describes several kinds. He enumerates no varieties of the quince, but simply de- scribes the tree, and mentions that its " apples be ripe in the fall of the leaf and chiefly in October." He also gives receipts for preparing confections from the quince. The word Mai-- malade, is from the Spanish word Marmellos, signifying quinces. Gerard describes five varieties, or rather species, of the plum, viz.: the Damson, the Mirobolan, the Almond plum, the Damas- cene plum, and the Bullace and Sloe. He says, " Plum trees grow in all known countries of the world ; and thinks that varieties are produced by the different regions in which they grow. He makes no allusion to the diseases that, in our day, threaten the whole species with destruction. " I have," he says, " three score sorts in my garden, and all strange and rare : there be other places many more common'; and yet yearly come to our hands others not before known." He says : " There be divers sorts of strawberries ; one red, another white ; a third sort green ; and likewise a wild straw- berry, which is altogether barren of fruit." This last must 108 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. have been a Potentilla, not a strawbeny. He adds : " Straw- berries do grow upon hills and valleys, likewise in woods and other such places that be somewhat shadowy. They prosper well in gardens ; the first (the red) everywhere, the other two more rare, and are not to be found save only in gardens." It is worthy of remark tliat Gerard, and the majority of the old writers, when treating of fruits, speak very particu- larly of their medicinal qualities, and express great doubts of the healthfulness of freely using them. At the present time, no physician, except a quack, treats of them as medicines ; and no intelligent man believes any kind of fruit unwhole- some, except in that excess which would make every other aliment unwholesome. OF CERTAIN ORNAMENTAL TREES, AND THE RESULTS OF SOME EXPERIMENTS IN HEAVY TRANSPLANTING. BY GEORGE JAQUES, WORCESTER, MASS. "With the hope of contributing something, though of but trifling importance, to the general fnnd of horticultural in- formation, I ventrtre to lay before the readers of your excel- lent Magazine some remarks upon a few of our most valnable deciduous shade trees, together with some account of a num- ber of experiments in what may be called, considering the size of the subjects operated upon, heavy transplanting. Of tlic numerous indigenes of our Northern forests, two only — the Vlnms Americana and the Acer saccharimnn — seem to have taken precedence over all others for the decora- tion of streets and pleasure-grounds ; for the result of an extended inquiry would probably sliow that the white (or weeping) elm, the sugar maple, together with the horsechest- nut, are by far the most pojmlar deciduous ornamental trees planted in New Enuland. Others, liowevcr, of which there are several, are steadily gaining reputation, in i)rop()rtion as they are becoming better known. Those are — to specify a few of them — the English elm, the Scotch elm, the Silver maple, the Norway m:ij)lc, the tulip, Wxa rcd-fluwcring horse- MARcn. 109 chestnut, etc. etc. Still a few more — not including the class of evergreens — mlglit be added to those just named ; but, so many are liable to be damaged or even entirely destroyed by insects, storms, droughts, severe frosts, (fee, that it seems hardly desirable, on the present occasion, to extend the list. Of tiiose above introduced to the reader's notice, something occurs to be said in regard to eacli. The American Elm. — This is easily transplanted, adapted to a great variety of soils, of rapid growth, comparatively exempt from the attacks of insects, and, of all large-sized trees growing in our climate, it is the most graceful, majestic, and beautiful. A fine example of what this monarch of our forests becomes in extreme old age, is afforded by " The Big Elm" on Boston Common, which was high and strong enough to do battle wath the storm and whirlwind long before a white man had ever set foot on the shores of New England. The English Elm. — Next to the oak, this enjoys the rep- utation of being the most magnificent tree of Great Britain, Perfectly hardy in the climate of our Eastern States, this elm, though smaller and more upright than the American, retains its leaves late iu the autumn, and is, in every point of view, worthy of a place iu the front rank. The Scotch Elm. — Tliis, also called the Wych or Witch elm, is pronounced by Sir Thomas Dick to be " one of the noblest of park trees ;" and unquestionably it may claim to be the finest of all the European species. For streets, unless of liberal width, this tree is too spreading; but wherever it has room to develop itself, it deservedly claims a conspicuous position among its deciduous companions of the avenue or the pleasure-ground. The Maples. — The Sugar variety is the best known, and well merits its popularity. The Silver maple, which is found wild, west of the AUeghanies, is a fine and beautiful tree, taking precedence over almost every other of the ornamental class, for its rapidity of growth. The Norivaij (Acer plata- noides) is a European variety, and, while young, resembles the sycamore of the Eastern continent. With its large foliage, its dense shade, its cleanly habits, as for almost every other desirable quality, this seems to us to be one of our very finest 110 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. trees for streets aud parks, or for the smallest enclosures of private residences. This maple needs but to-be better known, in order to be appreciated as it so richly deserves. The Horsechestnut. — This Asiatic foreigner seems to be perfectly comfortable in our climate, and not likely to be dis- placed by any " new-fangled notions." The red-flowering variety — though slower growing and of considerably smaller size — is, while in bloom, most gorgeously beautiful. A long- avenue of these, at Baden-Baden in Germany, as they ap- peared in all their summer glory, with long spikes of crimson flowers streaming like ruddy flames through their green foliage, remains to us as a dreamlike souvenir of a belt of the richest tropical scenery painted across a rugged Xorthern landscape. The Tulip. — The only possible thing to be urged against this, otherwise called the Liriodendron tree, is the necessity (unless the frozen-ball method be adopted) of transplanting it, while of quite small size, on account of the tender and almost vegetable character of its roots. But surely so trifling an objection ought not to weigh against a tree, which, for its stateliness and symmetry of growth, its gracefulness, its large and beautiful foliage, and its superb flowers, has perhaps no superior on the face of the earth. Every one of the above-named trees may be highly recom- mended for general planting ; but they are by no means all the fine trees which are adapted to our climate. Indeed, the white oak, the chestnut, and the hickories should certainly be added to the list, were it not for the extreme difficulty with which they submit to a change of locality. AVithout stopping, however, to advocate the claims of these or any other neglected trees, we can hardly refrain from saying a few words in favor of one of the species of our walnuts, especially as this tree figures prominently in some experi- ments in heavy transplanting which the reader will find related farther alung in this article. The HiCKORy. — Among what botanists style the indigenes of North America, tlie shcllbark, (Juglans squamosa), one of the hickories, holds a higli rank. This latter-named spe- cies is stately and symmetrical, and, even for ornamental MARCH. Ill purposes, has fewer rivals than inferiors. Its wood, whether as fuel or as timber for some special uses, is unsurpassed by any other growing in the same latitude. Accidental varieties of the shellbark are also found, bearing fine large thin-shelled nuts well worthy of cultivation, being superior in flavor even to the world-renowned European (or English) walnuts. Shell- barks, indeed, are held in such repute as to form an article of commerce, four or five hundred bushels of them being annually registei^ed among the exports of the United States. What may be some vague and remoter value of one of these trees, growing in the grounds of those who have children to frolic beneath its shade, and gather its fruit as a treasured contribution to the good cheer of wintry evenings, may be estimated best by those moralists who see, in the gleam of the patriot's sword, a reflection of those blessed associations, which, while they bind the human heart to the home of its childhood, inspire love of country, and become an mestimable defence alike against open hostility or skulking treason. But to proceed to what is more practical. In the month of October, 1839, my father found, on a neighbor's farm, a shellbark hickory, having upon it a few specimens of large, thin-shelled, early-ripening nuts. The possibility of trans- planting this tree to the grounds around his own house, suggested itself; and accordingly, a few weeks afterward, in November, the attempt was made. The subject of our experi- ment— some ten inches in diameter at the surface of the ground, and nearly forty feet high — was of course extremely heavy and unwieldy. We should hardly have succeeded in lifting it at all, but for the very convenient vicinity of three other still larger trees, to which we attached pulleys. An- other circumstance, to which our experiment was especially indebted for its successful issue, was the fact that the hickory we were operating upon grew in a sort of enclosure, formed by three large rocks, which, confining the roots in a small basin-like space, enabled us to take up the monster plant with the radical portions essential to its vitality nearly entire. After considerable difficulty, the tree was securely fastened upon a large hay-wagon, the mass of roots resting on the hind axle, and the trunk slanting out, at an angle of about forty- 112 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. five degrees, over the heads of the hindermost of the two yoke of oxen, whose united strength was tasked in drawing it. Creaking and groaning beneath its burden, and occasionally saluted by a sneer from those looking on, the vehicle moved slowly along, a distance of over tliree miles, to the place of its destination. The tree was somewhat roughly lowered into the hole prepared for it, an operation which might have been much better performed by placing bed-screws (such as are employed for moving buildings) under "the axle-trees, which would have enabled us to lower the wagon body with its load slowly to the ground, after having removed the wheels. The broken ends of the roots and their bruised parts having been carefully dressed, the new ornament of our grounds was properly righted up and secured in a perpendicular position, and almost in as good order as if it had been of only ordinary size. The next step was to support the huge plant by means of three long heavy poles set firmly in the ground and bound against its trunk, so as to resist the action of the winds. A much better mode of securing the tree, doubtless, would have been to place close around it, on the surface of the ground, two or three large stones, each as heavy as a yoke of oxen can draw. This hickory was lifted from the ground with but very little earth adhering to its roots, and the wliole operation of moving it, being independent of any assistance from tlie action of the frost, Avas, excepting the mechanical appliances necessitated by the weiglit of such a large subject, the same as is usually practiced in autumn-transplanting. During tlie first season after removal the tree presented a feeble, sickly, and unpromising appearance ; convalescence came vvitli the second summer ; and, two years later, a vig- orous growth and dark glossy foliage rewarded us with grati- fying evidences of the complete success of our experiment. Twelve or fourteen years from its transplantation, the treo riponcd a fine crop of about half a bushel of nuts; and since that time it has continued healthy and productive. In the summer of 1850, my father having sold his home- place, removed his buildings a few hundred feet to another beautiful site, which was unfortunately entirely destitute of trees of any kind. In the iiuluniu of the same year, we do- MARCH. 113 tcrmiiicd to attempt to supply this dcficiciicy by the hitroduc- tion of a considerable number of trees of several species, and of a size sufficient to produce an immediate effect. Our manner of transplanting them was exclusively by what is described in the books as the frozen-ball method. With white pines, ten, fifteen, and even twenty feet high, our suc- cess was complete. Large hemlocks were nearly a failure. Norway and black spruces, and arbor-vitass, which had been previously transplanted, suffered little or nothing under the operation, the largest being about fifteen feet high. Two elms and four shellbarks, all between thirty and forty feet in height, receiving a heavy mulching the first summer, pre- sented, in their second year, all that could be desired of a healthy appearance. The united product of three of the shellbark trees, in 1861, was a full half bushel of such excel- lent nuts as we had a right to expect, for these trees had all been selected with reference to fruit which they had borne previously to their removal. One or two fine white beeches, and some apple and pear trees of large size, may be added to this list, and — but some years before — a moderately large peach tree, also, which ripened nearly a peck of fine fruit (the Snow variety) the season after its removal. During the operation of moving our buildings, referred to above, it was found necessary either to cut down or remove a fine apple tree, with a trunk about four inches in diameter at the surface of the ground, and a head branching up about eight or nine feet high, and well proportioned. The tree, having on it at the time (June 19, 1850) a dozen or twenty specimens of the Danvers Sweeting, was considered too valu- able to be sacrificed, and we at once set about transplanting it. Accordingly, a circular ditch, about two feet wide and deep, and about three feet from the trunk of the tree, was dug around it, and kept filled with water for several hours, until the central mass of clayey loam, in which the tree stood, was completely saturated. Our patient was next carefully turned down upon one side, sufficiently to place the hind end of a stone-boat under its roots, to which a very gratifying quantity of earth continued to adhere. The tree was thus removed, set out, and kept heavily watered through a thick TOL. XXVIII. — NO. III. 8 114 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. mulch for the remainder of the season. Some of the leaves fell, as did also all the fruit gradually and before maturity. In 1851, the tree ripened a few specimens of fruit, and still continuing to be as vigorous and productive as though it had never been disturbed ; it is highly prized by the gentlemen who purchased of my father the land on which it stands. One other experiment may be disposed of in a few words. Rearranging a portion of my garden, in the fall of 1859, I found it necessary to reset some thirty-five or forty dwarf pears. These trees were on qxiince, ten or twelve years from the graft, and all in a bearing state. Tlie ground having been thorouglily trenched two and a half feet deep, and en- riched, the trees were carefully transplanted about the first week in November. The ensuing summer over one third of these pears showed fruit, twenty-two fine Duchess on one, and nineteen very large Belle Lucrative on another, (fee. &c. Three only of the whole number have died, and these appear to have been destroyed by the quince-borer, rather than by reason of their having been reset. The second year (1861) the crop of fruit was small, as everywhere in this region ; but nearly all these trees make a vigorous growth of Avood, and they may now be regarded as being perfectly established in their new location. One other experiment it may be worth while to give an account of here, as being illustrative of the mode of trans- planting recommended in the 70th page of this volume, by your English correspondent, Rev. Mr. Brdhaut, Eight or ten years ago, I set out about eighty apple trees, mostly arrived at a bearing state. The location was on the broad flattish summit of a hill. The soil was, the first six inches, surface loam ; the next two feet, yellow loam ; and, beneath this, heavy clay. The trees were transplanted in the autumn, and were set directly upon the grass, as it was left after the hay-crop had been taken ofT, the sward remaining unbroken. The roots of every subject thus experimented uj)on were covered by al)out one horse-cart load of good loam, mostly decayed turf, ])laced around, so that, wlicn the work was comj)lcted, cacli tree stood on its " own little mound," and even more elevated than your English correspondent MARCH. 115 suggests. Five years after removal, seventy-one out of the eighty or eighty-five trees Averc in a fine healthy condition. For the first three or four years, the orchard seemed to have been slightly retarded in its growth by the too high position of the trees, and the death of two or three is partly attributa- ble to the mode of transplanting. Still, the experiment may be regarded as having been tolerably successful ; and, upon the whole, when it is desirable to locate an orchard on com- paratively low ground, where drainage is difficult, and es- pecially where the subsoil is a heavy clay, the practice may be safely recommended to any one who can afford to use a sufficient quantity of surface-loam — not less than a horse-cart load to a tree — so that the "little mound" shall be large enough to protect the roots. Under any less favorable cir- cumstances, our ordinary New England manner of trans- planting is preferable. But to conclude. Should what is written above seem to be worthy of the space it will occupy in the pages of the Mag- azine of Horticulture, something further about Evergreen trees may form the subject of another communication. CORDON TRAINING OF FRUIT TREES, ADAPTED TO THE ORCHARD HOUSE AND OPEN-AIR CULTURE. BY REV. T. COLLINS BRE'HAUT. CORDON TRAINING — ITS ADVANTAGES AND USES. Cordon training derives its name from its fanciful resem- blance to a cord or chain. A certain number of leading branches are carried out, and on them spurs are developed, so that the branches look somewhat like twisted cables or chains. It is not an entirely new plan, but has the advantage of being based on well-known and valuable methods long in use. In the present case its value chiefly consists in its com- binations, and modifications required by the peculiar character of the climate of England. In the case of in-door culture much more novelty was admissible, because in this instance 113 THE Mi-G.YZINE OF HORTICULTURE. the dry and equable temperature aided powerfully in its suc- cess. Objections made to cordon training in the open air, which, however, are not based on experience, being gener- ally made by persons who have never even seen the trees during one season, in orchard houses, fall at once to the ground. But for an amateur to take up cordon training and- to en- deavor to practice it, irrespective of the exigencies of our rainy skies, and to expect results attainable in other dry and sunny localities, is simply absurd. I have myself carefully studied the system, and followed it out on a fair scale for some years, both in the open air and in the orchard house. While, therefore, convinced of its value, I trust it will not be considered presumptuous in me to say, that I believe that an important portion of this peculiar sys- tem would prove a total failure unless it were carried out ex- actly as described in these pages. But as it is so simple that any one can understand its rules, there can be no reason why mistakes should occur, nor is the manual labor so great as to prevent even ladies from undertaking it. I offer my sugges- tions to amateurs with a certain confidence, since I have tried and rejected most of the systems which are, at this dap, con- sidered excellent in France. One form was quite unsuitable to the extreme dampness of our climate, which induces a too luxuriant growth in the autumn ; while the want of propor- tionate sun-heat renders it impossible to have well-ripened wood, — and without this, what tree will ever bear ? Another form, more adapted to meet these difficulties, was far too complicated in its system of dis-budding, — Avhich, by the bye, is a plan requiring much caution in its adoption, and is not very necessary at any time. It is true this hist system produced a fair crop of fruit, but it required too much atten- tion to make it generally valuable. Proceeding, therefore, on a new mode, which arose out of the cordon system itself, I gradually adopted it, and after two years' trial of this ncic combination, I do not hesitate to recommend it a^ (Jic best which exists at the ])rcscnt day. A large and important por- tion of tins system — the management of the spurs and the growths on thi'm— is very similar to that recommended by MARCH. 117 Mr. Rivers, in the chapter on "Summer Pinching," Some of the terms used in horticulture are so droll as to excite wonder at their use, but it would cause confusion to endeavor to introduce any new ones. But certainly " pinching spurs in the summer" seems no particular recommendation in gar- dening. As was said before, cordon training has the immense advantage of being simple. There is no elaborate tying-in of summer shoots, as old as Shakspeare : " Tie up those dangling apricocks ;" indeed few ties are required even in the winter. The forerights are preserved, which are of much value in increasing the amount of fruit. The spurs are com- pactly and regularly distributed, and are thus more easily sheltered from the weather, and more readily examined and pruned. No long straggling shoots are ever seen. The sup- ply of new wood of the proper bearing age, and the regular distribution of the leaves, ensures a succession of crops. The fruit is all produced close to the main stems. All parts of the tree have a fair chance. The produce is doubled, since half of the intervals between the branches is only required. Twelve inches are sufficient for the parts where 18 or 24 inches were formerly required. The trees are as readily detached from the walls to clean them, as vines are from the wires, and from their simple forms no injury can happen to any portion. The trees are only lightly secured to the rods (which are safer, after all, than galvanized wires), and it is easy to clear off cobwebs and insects from the back of the trees, an advantage of incalculable value, as the gardener well knows. All these, and others, are the results of cordon training. But one of the chief recommendations of the system is the rapidity with which a high wall is clothed with productive spurs. In four years a wall, tv^elve to fifteen feet high, can be covered with fruit-bearing wood, all disposed in regular, beautiful, and harmonious succession. This will be obvious by a reference to the Frontispiece,* where the different years are indicated by their progress ; and as a tree, planted at the angles shown, must grow fast, and * The engraving illustrating this system will be given in the next number with the chapter which describes the operation. 118 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. yet be fruitful, wliat can be desired more ? What is shown in the Frontispiece is a representation of one kind of cordon, and that the very best, — the " diagonal," — with three leaders on each tree. The trees are planted in the ground at thirty- six inches from their neighbors to right and left, there being thus twelve inches of interval between each leader. In France the single cordon,* with laterals of fourteen inches, succeeds well, but it would fail in England. The double cor- don is better adapted ; these two forms clothe a wall with amazing rapidity, and if suited for our climate would super- sede all others. The triple cordon I have never seen but in my own gardens ; with laterals in tlie old system it would not advance fast enough, which is one important condition in its use. A quadruple cordon would take so much time to com- plete as to make it less desirable ; it might, however, suit very moist localities better. With spurs, as now recommended, the triple cordon unites most of the conditions required for success. It covers the wall rapidly, and bears well and regu- larly : nothing better can be said in its favor. Its form is also so regularly beautiful, that even casual observers must be struck with the harmony and grace of the whole tree. No gentleman likes to have his valuable walls covered with trees as unproductive as tliey are ungainly ; but any one who has seen a well-managed cordon on the diagonal plan, will not fail to give it the palm as to beauty. By means of light guiding rods the young wood creeps as straight as a walking stick, upwards, and on this depends much of the handsome appearance of the trees. So that were a wall of these trees drawn, each of them ascending with mathematical regularity, it would not be exaggerated : a moderate amount of skill and patience would easily effect it. The various forms of cordon training rcnuiin to be no- ticed. They arc the diagonal, the best suited for a wall ; for in-door or out-door culture it sliould always liave three leaders. The vertical, useful for trees trained against the })illars of the orchard-house, wh(;re tlicy Itear admirably; (hey also answer well if planted in the borders. If for walls in the open air, * An cnf^raviiij; of tlic sinj^lc cordon will appear in a future number, to illus- trate this mode of training the peach, now so jjopular in Fruncc. MARCH. 119 then the number of leaders should not be less than five, or there would be danger of the trees producing too much wood. The spu-al: round wires for trees in pots, or round the pillars of the orchard house, where they have a pretty effect. It will also suit large pear standards in Ihe open ground, or in the borders of the house. Lastly, the horizontal — i. e. all fan-shaped, (palmetto of the French,) or laterally developed trees ; all standard trees in the open ground or within the house, and planted in the borders. COEDON TRAINING IN PEACH TREES. — THE DIAGONAL CORDON. " If any one tree has occupied the attention of cultivators more than anotlier, it is surely the peach." So says the editor of the Gardener^ s Chronicle ; and so many have done so, that it may almost be asked if the matter be not exhaust- ed. The article from which ^ this is quoted proceeds to lay down three conditions as necessary to success in peach cul- ture, which is what we are now considering. The first indis- pensable condition for success is, that the soil must be well drained; and secondly, that the wood must ripen thoroughly ; and thirdly, that as the wood of the first and third year pro- duces no fruit, it must be looked for only on the wood of the second year. I hope to be able to show satisfactorily that these requisites can best be obtained by cordon training, com- bined with attention to other important particulars. The peach, like the pear, is a standard of perfection among fruit trees ; but each requires a widely different treatment. The peach coming from a climate tropical in its summer heats, drier at most seasons than ours, and yet subject to ex- tremely severe frosts, when transplanted to England is placed under very different conditions. These arise chiefly from the want of sun-heat at the necessary period; but above all, from the excessive moisture of spring and autumn. As to our frosts, these are not often injurious to the tree itself, but they affect the blossoms when setting. Nevertheless, precautions can be used in out-door culture which somewhat obviate this disadvantage ; yet it is difficult to know how to ward off the drenching autumnal rains, which ruin all hopes of ripe wood. It is here that cultivation under glass is most valuable. 120 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. It is no -vvonder, then, if the tree should have heen written about till the very name of peach becomes odious to readers of horticultural subjects ; and it is not a matter of surprise, if even the ancients blundered amusingly Avhen they wrote about this exotic. Thus we find Columella making the fun- niest mistakes ; and Pliny (the Rivers of his day) setting him right, and re-establishing the fruit into popular favor. Never- theless, even Pliny only knew of five varieties. By the 16th century some forty kinds were known and described ; and, of these, the oldest and that most carefully depicted is the •'Lucca peach," which is supposed, on good grounds, to be the "Late Admirable" of the present day, and the " Peche Royale" of the French. {Buhamel.') The "Late Admira- ble " is not the same as " Bourdine " (which ripens later), as others assert. But this only shows how little is really known about the fruit common in the ;iiiddle ages. In the tropics the peach succeeds pretty well, that is, it grows finely ; but there is litile fruit o)i it. A^egetation is too continv.al for the fruit-buds to form. This is curious enough, as it is just the case, from excess of humidity, in our climate. Between the 30th and 43rd degrees of latitude, the care be- stowed on or required by tlie peach is almost nothing, and beyond the 50th degree it declines to bear at all. Thus wrote M. Noisette ; an excellent authority, — but, then, he knew nothing of orchard houses. How few Frenchmen of the pres- ent day really believe in our successful culture of fruit at all, I leave to continental travellers to declare. " They grow, it is true," said one of the learned men at Angers to me, "tlicy grow, as my friend (quoting a well-known name) declared to us as we walked the streets of London together, but they never ripen." The eminent cultivator referred to had fre- quently visited England, and knows all our best n\irscry gar- dens too. Another, and certainly a clever autborily, residing at Brussels, considers our system of pear culture as "disas- trous," and ascri))es it to ignorance of common princij»les; the tri'cs I'ound London, thougli numci'ons, being quite "un- pro(bH.;tiv(.'." The transition from tbis nniusing jirtjudice on tbc part of our continental friends, to the opinions of tbc Cbincse respect- MARCH. 121 ing peaches, is not so abrupt as may appear at first sight. The ruddy and pointed peaches are considered, in China, to be symbols of long life. They are in consequence profusely used as ornaments on their walls, and even on their furniture. Porcelain peaches are appropriate presents on the New Year. The peach has also the valuable quality of being an antidote against evil or low spirits ; but the brown peach, though beau- tiful, is the cause of sin and death. Probably some allusion is here meant to the wide-spread tradition of Eve's offence; more especially, as one variety called " Yu" renders the eater thereof immortal. So much for oriental opinions. With respect to details in peach train- ing, these have had the share of attention from many quar- ters. But before entering into them, I must quote Lindley's words respecting the formation of flower and of leaf-buds; which are so explanative, and, I hope, agree so completely with what follows, that it will be useful to record them here. "Physiologists know that whatever tends to cause a rapid diffusion of the sap and secretions of any plant, causes also the formation of leaf-buds instead of flower-buds ; while an accumulation of these fluids produces flower-buds. In a leaf- bud the leaves are highly developed, and their axis has a ten- dency to elongate as soon as stimulated by heat and light. In a flower-bud the leaves are in an imperfect state, (which is called calyx, corolla, stamens and pistil) and the axis has no tendency to elono^ate. Hence a flower-bud is a contracted branch. It is, therefore, easy to be seen that so long as the fluids of a tree circulate rapidly, and without interruption, only leaf-buds (i. e. undeveloped branches) can be formed. But if the motion of the fluids be languid, and the parts are formed slowly^ flower-buds, which are contracted by nature, and have no disposition to elongate, only will appear." For these reasons, most sound as they are, the Diagonal Cordon, which is now to be described, appears the best adapt- ed to unite the conditions of fertility with due attention to the necessity of extension. In other words, this cordon grows and bears well. As will be seen, the term "Diagonal" means leaders — one or more, but generally three — trained against walls at an angle of 65 degrees during the first year, 122 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. and at an angle of 45 degrees during the succeeding years. The reason why the trees are first planted at the angle of 65 degrees, is that otherwise the shoots on the upper side would grow faster tlian those on the lower, and that they would in- juriously compete (by their vertical position), with the growth of the .leading extremities, the growth of which it is sought by all means to encourage. The position of 45 degrees, to which it is inclined as soon as the loading shoot has obtained the proper pre-eminence and strength, and is thus able to defend its rights — the posi- tion of 45 degrees is the most favorable to obtain fruit and wood above all inclinations at which any fruit trees can be placed. Therefore, as soon as the leader is strong and vigor- ous enough, the tree should be lowered to this angle, and, by means of light guiding rods, be made to ascend, at this angle, to the top of the wall. From being tied lightly, at qxqvj two or three inches, to the rod, it must grow perfectly straight. CHINESE YAM, DIOSCOREA BATATAS. BY WM COURTIS, MARBLEHEAD. Having for four years planted and raised the yam, and, as I think, successfully, I have thought it might be the means of doing something for the great cause of agriculture to make my experience known to the public. I have therefore drawn up a simple statement for your perusal, and if you should think that it will be of any assistance to those who may plant this valuable esculent, you arc at liberty to do as you please witli it. On the 17th A})ril, 1860, I planted two rows of about forty feet eacli, of Chinese yams, and gathered them in November, 1861, having left them all in the ground througli the winter of '61. The quantity liarvcstcd was a bai'rel and a half, the tuljcrs wcigliing Ironi one to four pounds each, averaging about li lbs. each. I ]iad a trench dug two feet deep, covered at Uio bottom with six inclies uf barnyard manure ; the earth was thrown MARCH. 123 lightly over it and raised a foot, so that the soil was loose to the depth of three feet ; a dibble was then used to make a hole a foot deep and a foot apart, and a piece of yam two inches long dropped into each hole, which was then filled up with a compost of wood ashes, super-phosphate of lime, and common soil, in equal parts. A frame was raised over thepn, by placing a bean pole near each hole, and laths fixed across them for the vines to run upon. Nothing more was done to them except to keep them from weeds till they were gathered. They were very irregular in coming up ; some appeared in four weeks, others in six weeks, and a few were two months in showing themselves, but they all finally came up; they grow very rapidly, many of them grew from 20 to 25 feet during the season ; the blossom, which appeared about the middle of August, white, resembling that of the Madeira vine, and had a cinnamon fragrance. The foliage is similar to the English ivy, and is as beautiful as that vine for an ornament. It dies to the ground with the first severe frost, and begins to show itself again about the first of June or last of May. There is less trouble in raising the yam than it requires for the potato, though the labor of digging them is much greater ; they are so extremely delicate that the slightest touch bruises them, so that to dig them in perfection requires a trench near them as deep as that in which they were planted. They will keep, if not bruised, as long and better than the potato. I have not decided as to the advantages arising from keep- ing them in the ground through the winter, as the tubers die in the ground, the neck, which is from 6 to 12 inches long, only surviving, and the new tuber growing from this neck, which is of a tougher nature ; I am satisfied, however, that it is the only way to get large tubers, the plant being much more vigorous, after commencing to grow, but whether the weight of the crop two years old, or the two crops annually gathered, would be the heaviest, I am unable to say, though my belief is in favor of the former. I should not again plant them more than four inches deep, particularly if they are left in the ground over winter, as the new tubers springing from the bottom of the neck are in consequence deeper in the 124 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. ground and more difficult to harvest. The vine produces bulbs in the axil of the leaf, similar to the tiger lily, which forms the new plant ; they are not of much value the first year, but after tlie plant has become vigorous by remaining in the ground over winter, the bulbs grow, many of them, as large as- chestnuts. I have a pint which I gathered from the above vines. I think it is better to allow them to grow rather than to trim the vines down to make new plants. I have tried both plans. It will require four years to produce a tuber from tlic bulb, of full mature size. I should in future put all the manure or fertilizer at the top of the ridge, i. e. within a foot of the surface. I have no doubt that one hundred and fifty barrels can be easily produced to the acre, which, in my judgment, are worth at least double the price of potatoes. For an ornamental vine it cannot, or has not, been equalled ; its hardiness gives it great value. We are highly gratified in placing before our readers so complete an experiment in the culture of this valuable escu- lent, which we predicted would become — not a substitute for the potato — but a valuable auxiliary to the culinary depart- ment, a real luxury to the lover of delicate vegetables. We notice, by the French journals, that it is becoming very popu- lar in France, and large quantities already find their way to the market. The main objection urged against it lias been its small size, but this appears to have been owing to defects in cultivation, for it has now been shown by Mr. Courtis that they may be easily grown to the weight of four ])ouiuls. We hope to sec it redeemed from the neglect wliicli it lias received the last year or two. Since Mr. Courtis's communication was received, Mr. C. Downing informs us that he has cultivated it largely tlic past year, and esteems it a most valuable product. His roots weighed eleven pounds eacli, and lie staled thai a gcnlliMuan of his acquaintance had them fouutkkn pounds each I In both instances the roots were left in the ground all winter. After this no fault can be Ibund with the size of the routs. — Ed. MARCH. 125 rO MO LOGICAL GOSSIP. Cherries and Persimmons in Ohio. — Our correspondent, Dr. Kirtland, wliose labors in the improvement of the cherry have resulted in the production of many superior varieties, has also given his attention to the persimmon, and has raised some seedlings which are an improvement upon our native kinds. Few cultivators would hardly deem this a fact of sufficient importance to expend time and care in their pro- duction ; but the efforts of Dr. Kirtland show that even a fruit so little known and slightly esteemed may become a desirable acquisition when subjected to the cultivator's skill. We copy Dr. Kirtland's remarks : — " Our cherry trees have nearly recovered from the injurious impression of the winter six years since, and now are remark- ably healthy, and are more thickly studded with fruit spurs and buds than ever before known. The most dangerous con- tingency to which they are subject on the south shore of Lake Erie is sleet, or incrustations of ice, followed by severe cold weather. They have been thus incrusted for several days in succession, and on three several occasions, during the present winter, yet have escaped injury in consequence of the weather continuing mild till the ice melted. The fine varieties of Heart cherries evidently withstand severe trials in unfavorable localities and climate much bet- ter if propagated on Kentish or Morello stocks, with heads formed near the ground, than on Hazard stocks with long bodies. A partial shading improves their condition. Sur- rounding them with a clump of red cedar or hemlock bushes affords a favorable protection without impairing their vigor and fruitfulness. My son-in-law, Charles Pease, is still carrying on the process of producing seedling cherries after my method, and is every year securing new and fine varieties. The fruit of my seedling persimmoiis and of the Scotch medlar are now in perfection. They should be associated together. The rich sweet of the one contrasts very palatably with the subacid flavor of the other, and collectively they form a rather inviting dish of fruit at this season of the year. 126 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. ■ The persimmon is perfectly hardy here, but whether it would bear your climate is questionable. It is found native at Beavertowu, 30 miles from Pittsburg. My trees were raised from seeds planted in 1840. They began to bear fruit in seven years. This tree is diaecious, and at least three out of every four are barren or staminate. The fruits of no two are aliiie in size, form, flavor, and time of ripening — and they come into maturity, in succession, from the 20th of September to the 1st of March. Greatly improved varieties will no doubt be produced by crossing and cultivation. The foliage is rich and beautiful ; hence the tree is ornamental on a lawn. Seeds should be planted where the trees are to stand per- manently, as they are difficult to transplant. Blight having destroyed most of my pears, I am now amus- ing myself in testing all the new varieties of the grape. Cleveland and Kelley's Island have furnished several which promise well, and I am happy to learn that your locality is doing the same. — Very truly yours, J. P. Kirtland. Our Native Grapes in Baltlmore. — An amateur cultiva- tor in Baltimore sends us the following gossip respecting grapes and grape culture in that city, and we arc highly pleased to receive such evidence of the excellence of the va- rieties mentioned, when subjected to just what we understand to be " generous culture," as suggested in our late article upon grapes. Mr. Kohlcr has shown himself to be a true lover of fine grapes ; for in these days, to have the Clinton claimed among eatable varieties, indicates a perversion of taste almost unaccountable. Mr. Kohler, in dcsci'ibing it, shows a just appreciation of the qualities of a good graj)e, and instead of advocating the growth gf the Clinton because it bears a good crop, at once places it in its proper ranlc, — a stock upon which to graft such truly delicious varieties as the Ilel)ecca, Diana, and Delaware. Mr. Kohler desires our opinion of the Tukalon : this wc gave twenty-five years ago, in one of the early volumes of our Maga//ine. We then thought it a very excellent grape ; hut we could never raise it successfully in our climate, nor have we hoard of numy successful cultivators of this variety. It MARCH. 127 appears liable to mildew and rot, and the vines arc tender and liable to injury from the winter. What it may do in the more favorable climate of Baltimore, Mr. K. will soon be able to inform us ; but we do not anticipate very valuable results. Specimens of the Manhattan will be most acceptable ; we have tasted the grape (inferior specimens) and thought it excellent, and an opportunity to try such specimens as Mr. Kohler raises would enable us to form a better opinion of its merits. We need not say we are higlily gratified to know that our estimate of the various grapes, mentioned in our December number, meets the approbation of one who is so well able to judge of its correctness. Since the commencement of our Magazine, twenty-seven years ago, we have endeavored to form a just estimate of every new fruit, and it has been a source of the highest satisfaction to know that our opinions have been corroborated by competent judges :-^- " Mr. Brakenridge, my neighbor, furnished me kindly with the December number of your issue, and what I read there in reference to the different qualities of the new hardy grapes, has given me much faith in the editor's judgment, — for I have most of those kinds mentioned as new and No. 1 now in my possession. Some have fruited last year, and some promise to fruit the ensuing season. Mr. H.'s expressions entirely correspond with my limited experience. I have three strong Rebecca vines, grafted in May, 1860, on four-year old Clinton stocks, one of which has produced thirty-six strong fine bundles, the others fifteen and twelve bunches, (grafted by Mr. Brakenridge.) These three Rebec- cas have not suffered from mildew, as my other Rebeccas have done in 1860, and their berries never shrivelled, though I left them until December, for I have found that a little frost much improves tiie quality of the Rebecca, and actually produces a very perceptible strawberry flavor. I found last season that stopping the Rebecca vines (on their own root) in July and early in August, i. e. by merely taking off the point of the shoots, produces larger and stronger leaves, and thereby I avoid mildew ; besides, the Rebecca does not like a too hot and confined place. 128 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. The Diana, on the other hand, is very fine, and fully equal to the very finest Catawba I raise, when it has the benefit of a protected and even confined sunny and hot corner or place. It has never mildewed with me, never suffered from rot, bore always full crops, and particularly last year, having set a very evenly-distributed full crop, they looked the very picture of a bearing vine. Much heat will give the Diana a thin skin and fine taste. I have also fruited the Maniiattan last season, a very fine white greenish grape, amber where exposed to the sun ; skin thin, dissolving pulp, taste sweet and aromatic, as early as Rebecca. I have grafted several Manhattan on four-year old Clinton stocks, (I have condemned Clinton, you will perceive), and all have grown such strong wood last season, that I ex- pect, this fall, to be enabled to send you, Mr. Editor, some fine bunches of Manhattan, if acceptable. What is your opin- ion of Tokalon, which will certainly fruit with me the ensuing season ? I have entered strongly upon Delaware, planted in 1860, a border 325 feet long. You will perceive that the grape fever has seized me, like many other amateurs, — consequently, mind and pen will wan- der; yet I know you will kindly excuse mj volatile efibrt, and believe me, very respectfully, your obt. servant, Aug. KoHLER, Baltimore, Jan., 1862. Muscat Hamburgh and Golden Hamburgh Grapes. — Will the Editor please to express his opinion, in the next issue, about the qualities of the Muscat Hamburgh and Golden Hamburgh grapes, and their success, as far as ascer- tained, in the cold grapery in this country ? Some cultivators have given their opinion in cotcmporary journals, but let us hear what Mr, Hovey's is, if you please. — Yours respectfully, Aug. Kohler. We willingly comply with the request of our corrcs})ondent, though we have already noticed these varieties in our last two volumes. We do not know that cither of these sorts has been exhiljited from the cold grapery, as they are yet too new to be I'ound in a fruiting state in many collections. Under ordinary grajjc culture in the warm grapery, they have been exhibited before tlie Massachusetts Horticultural Society in MARCH, 129 very fine condition the past year, by Mr. Turner of Randolph. The spechncns were hirgc, the berries fine size, the color per- fect, and the quality delicious, — and they justly carried off the prize over very remarkable specimens of the older sorts. The Muscat Hamburgh was of an intense blue black, and the Golden Hamburgh of that rich amber hue which so well expresses its name. The crop, we learn from Mr. Jordan, Mr. Turner's gardener, was excellent for the age and size of tlie vines, and from the fact that they were quite as early as the Black Hamburgh, we have no doubt they will be perfectly at home in the cold grapery, as much so as the Chasselas. Eng- lish cultivators are united upon the merits of the Golden Ham- burgh ; but they differ as regards the Muscat Hamburgh, a few contending that it does not set well, while the majority deem it equal in this respect to the old Hamburgh. Perhaps it may require a little more warmth at the period of setting than the cold house affords ; but of this we shall know more at the end of the present year. It appears to merit all that has been said about it. Mead's Seedling Grape. — This is the name given to a new gi-ape, said to have originated in the garden of Mr. John. Mead, Lowell, Mass., in 1847, and the original vine carried to Illinois in the fall of 1860. It is described as follows : — "■ Evidently a seedling of Catawba, which it much resem- bles ; bunch medium to large, somewhat loosely shouldered ; berry medium, about the size of the Catawba, somewhat dark- er in color, round, red, with a fine bloom, juicy and very sweet, not as astringent as Catawba. The vine fine grower and healthy, not subject to rot, and an enormous bearer." Nov7 we think that a new grape which would ripen in the climate of Lowell, and as good as Catawba, would have been known pretty well before it reached Illinois ; and there is little or no doubt but it is the Diana, under a new name. The description corresponds in every respect with the Diana, and the engraving of the bunch is a fac-simile of that variety. We need more information before considering it a new grape. New Everbearing Raspberry. — Mr. Robert Buchanan pre- sented a communication from Mr. A. L. Moore, of Newark, Ohio, dated Dec. 12, 1861, stating that Mr. H. L. Sprague VOL. XXVIII. — NO. III. 9 130 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. had a new seedling everbearing raspberry, which he thoiight "would prove valuable. It commenced ripening June 20th, and continued till Xov. 20, 1861. Four separate beds of twelve plants each, and of different ages were taken, and tlie ripe fruit gathered for a period of four months. One hundred and fifty-four quarts were gatliered, viz., forty in July, forty- five in August, thirty-one in September, and forty in October. This extraordinary yield, nearly five bushels from forty-eight plants, is vouched for by the writer, who is known as a highly respectable merchant of Cincinnati, and if true should entitle Mr. Sprague's Seedling to a high place among raspberries. — Proceedings Cincinnati Hoi'ticultural Society, Dec. 1861. The Iowa Strawberry. — Mr. Prince considers this a val- uable species for the propagation of new seedlings, coming, as it does, from a locality where the mercury falls to 30° be- low zero. Mr. Prince is now raising seedlings, using Iowa as one of the parents, and hopes to produce some valuable sorts. WINTER SCExNERY. BY MRS. ISAAC CLEMENT, MECIIANICVILLE, N. Y. It is worth a ten-mile ride on a cold morning to enjoy the landscape, when the trees and shrubbery are covered with white frost, especially tlie red cedar. The west bank of the Hudson, from this place nortliward, is high and rocky, and thinly covered witli red cedars ; they look to mc just as they did as far back as memory serves me ; their growth is very slow, from tlic small quantity of soil they find among tlie slaty rocks, and the rapidity with wliich the rain runs off from the surface. There, too, are seen small elms, and clus- ters of alders, a shrub which we look for in wet grouiul, and now and then a gnarled specimen of scrubby oak. What can be more beautiful than the red cedars as found growing th(T(!, when covered with a heavy wliite frost, with all their fantastic siiapes brought out by their hoary covering ; some are as flat-headed and drooping as though they were the MARCH. 131 original of the picture of the weeping larch, figured in the horticultural journals of late ; others are as prim as if sheared by a line ; while others again are overgrown with wild grape vines, which pull tlieir tops out of shape ; others, more exposed to the winds, have their limbs blown to one side, where they have buffeted the storms for many a year. The elm, too, loses none of its beauty from its associations, with its feathery spray glittering with frost in the morning sun, more beautiful even than when covered with loaves. The alders, with their clusters of seeds or aments, as seen in the distance, when covered with frost, look like rare specimens of silver work: while the oaks, that are so thickly clothed with leaves in sum- mer as to nearly hide their branches, now come in for a share of admiration ; when covered with frost one might readily suppose the blacksmith to have made them, with their square elbows and rigid branches. Even the sumach, with its crook- ed limbs so thinly covered with leaves in summer, is beautiful when covered with frost, with its panicles of persistent fruit, a few heads of which are seen above the oaks just for variety. These forms are no less pleasing to the lover of natural scenery in summer and autumn, especially the cedars, when they exhibit a new growth with its different hues, and some of them loaded with berries ; standing as they do on the brink of the noble Hudson, with its rush of crystal waters hurrying on with no obstruction until it meets the ocean's wave. In order to enjoy a diversified frosty scenery, we need not go into the piercing cold, provided we have plenty of decidu- ous shrubs in sight of our windows, each variety presenting a different growth, all the more perceptible when covered with frost. Amorpha fructicosa, with its slim branches tipt with bunches of persistent legumes ; Weigelia rosea, with its jointy, crowded shoots ; Spirea Douglasii, with its straight, upright limbs, and persistent fruit ; the purple fringe, with its crooked branches ; the althaea, with its prim, upright growth, decked in white as if for some special occasion ; and many others might be named, each very different in growth from its neighbor. 132 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. PERPETUAL OR TREE CARNx\TIONS. FROM TUE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. The carnation is a favorite flower. Its beauty, and above all its fragrance, commend it to all, and in some one of its many allied varieties — the picotee, the clove, or common border pink — it has always found a place in the garden, where alone it has seemed to be at home, refusing to dispense its bounties daring the winter, under ordinary treatment. But the skill of the gardener has of late years overcome the obstacles to success. A race of monthly, perpetual, or Tree carnations, as they are variously termed, has been pro- duced by the continental cultivators, which bloom as freely during the whole winter as the freest-flowering greenhouse plant, — a continued display of superb blossoms from Novem- ber to May. These carnations are now familiar to most of our cultiva- tors, and even some very valuable seedlings have already been produced ; and it only requires the skill of our amateurs to be devoted to their improvement to supply our gardens with as beautiful varieties as can be imported from Europe. But like many other free-blooming and easily-cultivated plants, the attractiveness of these carnations, during winter, is greatly enhanced by the right kind of treatment. Bloom they will under the most neglected management, but line large specimens, profusely covered with blossoms, can only bo oljtained by some knowledge of their habit of growth, and a due preparation of the plants to develop their valuable quali- ties,— for a continuous bloom is scarcely expected. Like many other plants they require a period of repose and growth to be followed with a greater abundance of bloom. A class of plants so valuable for winter decoration is de- serving of every attention, and the following hints on their treatment may materially aid the cultivator in obtaining superior specimens. "We add a list of a do/.on I'ihsc blooming and fine varieties: — Boulc de Ncigc, wliito, occasionally linlcd witli ])ink. Cei'ise j)Ci"pctuMle, cherry jtink, very lim'. MARCH. 133 Coquette, white, striped with scarlet. Henrietta, blush, striped with dark crimson, very fine. Inimitable, white, fringed with purple. Le Furet, wliite, edged and picoteed with violet. La Grenadier, scarlet, large and very brilliant. Mademoiselle Georges, large, rich deep rose. Madame Lucy, blush, striped with purple. Marginata, white, deeply margined with rose. Marceau, fine deep rosy pink. Souvenir d'un Ami, blush, striped with deep purple. There are several newer varieties, but these we have proved, out of a number both new and old, to be admirable kinds for any collection. — Ed. Carnations in winter ? Does not the very name of Clove Gillyflower or Julyflower, which belongs to the plant, nega- tive such a notion ? To such questions we can only reply that carnations in winter, and carnations of very good quality too, are amongst the comparatively modern improvements in floriculture, which, like the recently-introduced Bouquet dahlias and many other favorites now within our reach, we owe to the intelligent skill of far-seeing florists, who, having detected in their seed-beds some novel though perhaps but slightly varied form, bearing indications of a new and desira- ble feature, have followed up the hint until they have been able to bring out some old favorite with a new face. And yet in respect to the Tree carnations, which are those that yield winter flowers, the hint was given many years ago, so that we can only speak of the result as " comparatively modern." The race however seems to have died out amongst us for many years, and to have been only again revived at a very recent period. Some forty years ago, it seems, the first vaiiiety of Tree carnation, one with crimson flowers, made its way into our gardens. A few years later this was supple- mented by some distinct forms obtained by the Belgian florists, and then comes a pause ; for the varieties thus ob- tained seem to have been either lost, or lost sight of here, and nothing came of their introduction. On the Continent, however, in the south of France and in Belgium, they appear 134 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. to have been kept in view by at least some few cultivators, who have of late years given special attention to their increase and improvement ; and the result is that we have now in cultivation from these sources a considerable number of vari- eties— upwards of eiglity are named in Messrs. Henderson & Son's last published list of them — most of wliich are flowers of considerable beauty, and some of the more recent approach very nearly in merit to tlie choice summer-flowering varieties so much prized by our own florists. About this time last year the growers named above exhibited a collection of these winter-flowering Tree carnations at one of the meetings of the Royal Horticultural Society, and the merit of the varieties, as well as the utility of the group, was at that time marked by the award of a special certificate. This race of Tree carnations, which includes Tree picotees, may indeed be said to be invaluable for pot culture for deco- rative purposes and for winter bouquets of the higher class, the flowers being in winter as fresh and sweet as those of the summer season. And herein lies tlieir chief value, for they supplement the comparatively limited materials available for tlie forcing-ho\ise in winter with representatives of one of the most favorite of the flowers of our mid-suramertide. Those who are not familiar witli this race of varieties — " perpetual-flowered" as it is sometimes called, from its habit of producing its flower stems at varying successional periods — may be informed tliat tlie short stocky leaf-slioots, which in the usual forms of carnation and })icotce remain in a dwarfed and as it were dormant condition during a considerable por- tion of the year, arc wanting in tlie varieties to winch we now refer, tlie habit of whicb differs in this rcs})cct that the young leafy shoots once formed go on continuously to grow and lengthen out until they dcveloj) their flower buds. It is this habit which adapts them so perfectly lor the production of autunnial and winter blossoms. Hence, too, one leading feature in their management, when winter flowers are the object, consists in shoiMcning back in the sjiriiig and i^arly summer monlhs all tin; lallcr and more elongated of the shoots then Ibi-med, so that a fresh growth may at that season be induced ; the branches which are thus developed through- MARCH. 135 out the summer and autumn being those that furnish the required winter blossoms. The elongated shoots present on the plants in spring would, if left to grow on, develop blos- soms in the course of the summer. On the other hand, the vigorous young shoots made during the months of summer continue to grow on tlirough the autumn, and furnish winter flowers. Tliis renders it necessary, if a succession of flowers at different seasons is required, that there should be a succes- sion of plants under treatment — forwarded or retarded accord- ing to the period at which the flowers are required. Some of the principal features of treatment with the view to the production of the flowers during the winter may be here briefly sketched out. Commencing with the time when the blossoms of one season are just past, which will be very early in the year, the first thing to be done is to cut away the old flowering stems, which are to be removed quite back to the leaf growth at the base of the plant, however low down this may be. The object is to ensure a crop of dwarf, vigor- ous young shoots from as near the base of the stem as possi- ble. The plants are to be put into a dry, cool pit, well venti- lated, and freely exposed to light, protecting them from severe frost, as occasion may require, and repotting or top-di-essing them as they may need, after growth has recommenced. So they may go on for a while. By and by, when the severe spring frosts are past, they are to be planted out in prepared beds in the open garden. The chief requisites to their suc- cessful growth in this situation are, a dry subsoil, say to the depth of at least a foot and a half; a well-pulverized and porous fertile soil, enriched by the plentiful incorporation of rich leaf-mould or decayed cow manure ; and a situation where the plants will be fully exposed to sun and air. If the beds are so arranged and planted as to admit of being covered by a portable frame to furnish shelter from heavy rains, so much the better ; if not, the evils of excess of moisture on the soil must be avoided by some other means, amongst which the frequent stirring of the surface, especially after rain, is one of the most important. The growth thus obtained by planting out in open beds, is ordinarily much more vigorous than that which can be obtained under pot-culture. 136 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. By the middle or end of September those plants which have acquired sufficient sti-ength and vigor to produce flowers, should be carefully lifted with the earth about their roots, and potted into pots of convenient size ; after which they are to be sheltered for two or three weeks in a close greenhouse or pit, where they will be kept rather close, occasional sprink- lings of water and moderate ventilation, together when requi- site, with a slight shade from strong sun for a few hours about mid-day, being given them. In a short time it will be seen by the plump and fresh appearance of the stems, leaves, and buds that root growth has been reestablished, and after this the further object of protecting the plants under glass is solely that of preserving and assisting in the maturation and expan- sion of the flower buds. The forwardest of the plants may from time to time be removed to a warm house, with a genial temperature of from 50° to 60°, where they will gradually perfect their blossoms. It is to be borne in mind that these plants for blooming are not to be lifted from the beds in which their growth has been made until the flower buds are formed and begin to swell, which should be the case by the time we have indicated, or shortly tliereafter. If by that time there is no indication of flower buds, the growth has not been sufficiently vigorous for their development, and nothing remains but to leave the plants under conditions favorable to their health until the following spring, when the same cultural process must be renewed. In favorable soils and situations — that is, in airy situations, wliere the soil is porous and Avithout excess of moisture — tlicy may be left in the beds where they have grown tlirough the summer, l)ut if there is risk of injury from excessive or confined moisture, it is better to pot tlieni and store them in dry ventilated pits till the return of spring. The varieties of this tree form of the carnatit)n now include self-colored flowers of various liiu^s, such as crimson, scarlet, white, and yellow, and others with wliite grounds flaked with crimson, scarlet, or pur]il(', some having markings of more than one color, like the bizarres of the florists; whilst of flic Ficotec race, those in wliicli the color is disposed arouiul the edge of the petals, ihr.vc are primrose, yellow, orange-yellow, MARCH. 137 fawn-colored, and pale, slate-colored grounds, margined with lilac rose or scarlet. There are, too, (we mnst confess it) varieties which in tlieir own individual forms blend the mark- ings proper to the picotee and the carnation ; but we may in charity hope, since all such flowers as these are regarded as mere decorative objects, that such double-faced behaviour, reprehensible though it may be, will yet be judged leniently by the floral critics in consideration of other good qualities they possess. OUR HARDY HERBACEOUS PLANTS. BY THE EDITOR. The Ranunculacese embrace a large number of very beau- tiful garden plants, among which are the Adonis, Ranunculus, Troillius, Clematis, &c. &g. They are mostly natives of Eu- rope, though our own country and Northern Asia afford several genera and species. A French writer, in speaking of the Ranunculacese, says, " that if we pass in review the nu- merous genera of this family we shall notice that nearly all furnish our gardens a rich contingent of species, generally endowed with flowers of remarkable beauty, whether for the bright color of their flowers, for their beautiful foliage, or for their neat habit. Ordinarily they combine all the three qual- ities. To their ornamental character they often join the valuable quality of furnishing their flowers at all seasons, even during the winter." Among this family, one of the most ornamental, not only on account of the beauty of its flowers but their early appearance in April, is the Adonis vernalis, the subject of our notice. ADONIS VERNALIS. The Adonis (fig. 3) is the only perennial species of the genus. It is a native of the north of England, in valleys, and of the south, on sunny parts of mountains. It has long been introduced to our gardens, but is rarely seen, except in the choice collections of amateur cultivators. It well deserves a place, however, in every garden, not only on account of the 138 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. brilliancy of its large yellow flowers, but for tlieir earliness, which appear immediately after the frost leaves the ground, forming beautiful tufts of foliage, and producing a profusion of blossoms when there are few other flowers to cheer the advent of early spring. Our engraving represents the size of the flower, and the neat foliage of tlie plant. 3. ADONIS VKRNAI.IS. Its cultivation is very simple. The roots arc hibcrous, and they should be divided and replanted in tlio autumn. It does not require any particular soil, but flourislies well under ordinary garden culture, in a situation exposed to the sun. It grows al)out six inclies high. It may be also raised from seed, whicli should be sown as soon as gathered, as tlioy lie in the soil a long time before they vegetate. It should find a place in every collection of hardy plants. MARCH. 139 6ntn'jtl Itotici^s, Muscat Hamburgh Grape. — To the evidence already educed in favor of this grape, I may add that I purchased one in the autumn of 18G0; I cut it down and grew it this last summer along with various other sorts of vines. For pot-culture I considered it quite useless, as it produced a very thin weakly cane compared with the other sorts grown in the same place. I however thought that I would see what it would come to. I placed it in a stove on the 3d of December last, with 18 other vines in pots, and to my surprise the Black Hamburgh and Royal Muscadines did not break at all well. But the Muscat Hamburgh broke beautifully, producing two large bunches to every break; thus covering the little vine with 18 splendid bunches, while at the same time the plant looked healthy and strong. I am therefore of opinion that this variety will never fail to be a good bearer. — (Gard. Chron.) Indoor Gardening. — As this is at present so much patronized, and as the taste for having our rooms ornamented with plants is so much extended of late, I must say a word or two on the plan I adopt, and which affords me the gratification of having a constant supply of flowers from December until the genial spring ushers in the many welcome plants and shrubs which furnish our vases with cut flowers. At this moment I have my rooms dec- orated with some very fine specimens of hyacinths, tulips, and lily of the valley, which at this dull season are much admired by all who see them. I have a very small greenhouse heated by a stove, and into, this I bring the pots containing the bulbs or other plants in succession ; the rear of my house is in a northern aspect, so that in winter we seldom have the benefit of the rays of the sun. In October I obtained the bulbs, &c., and had them potted in compost and then plunged into a bed and covered with coal ashes and cinders, I let them remain under earth for about five weeks and then placed them in a cool frame, and after a short time I took them into the greenhouse, where they very soon began to show signs of bloom. On the 22d of last month I had a very fine box of lily of the valley in full blos- som in the drawing-room. I quite agree with my namesake " E. A. M." " that a little more or less water, air, and light are just the very things upon which depend the difference between beautiful healthy flowers, or poor, scraggy, ill-conditioned plants ;" but I don't think that any amount of care will afford the same style of plants or flowers grown in a room as you have if you possess the advantage of plenty of light, air, and a nice grow- ing atmosphere. Every one cannot indulge in a miniature stove, but to those really caring to have a supply of floweis for their rooms early in the season the advantage of a greenhouse heated by a stove is decidedly far better than any amount of care one can bestow in a sitting-room. The great desideratum is to preserve the air cells or lungs of the plants free from dust or smoke, &c., and in a greenhouse you can give them a shower- 140 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. bath with a syringe every morning, which effects this object. In a sitting- room this would not be possible, nor could we often afford sufficient space for a plant case. Certainly there are many persons who could not devote sufficient time or means to the care or erection of a greenhouse, and in this instance the plant-case must be useful; but I should say that one which ■would contain as many plants as are described by " E. A. M." would be nearly as large as a greenhouse of a moderate size. — (Gard. Chron.) Edcharis amazonica is cultivated successfully at Kew, where, in the Victoria House, its large snow-white blossoms and ample deep-green leaves had a fine effect. This is a plant which many fail to flower, owing, proba- bly, to not sufficiently encouraging its growth during the summer months. When it has done flowering it should be allowed a period of rest, then let it be repotted in good rich soil; when fairly started grow it freely, afid no fears need be entertained that it will not blossom satisfactorily. This is the kind of treatment which at Kew has been found to answer perfectly, each spike producing from four to six blooms, every one of v.hich is as large as a five-shilling piece. — (Gard. Chron.) The Darwinian Theory. — Mr. Page, in a work recently published, thus disposes of the Darwinian facts and inferences : — No doubt certain plants and animals are endowed with a certain amount of elasticity, so as to adapt themselves to minor changes of external conditions ; and acting upon this elasticity man has been enabled to produce all the varieties of cul- tivated fruit and grains and domesticated animals. This limit of variation, however, is soon reached; the species is never affected, and the varieties can only be maintained by a continuation of the artificial stimulus. In this case man presents himself as a sub-creator, deputed with a power of prescient design otherwise unknown in creation ; and to argue from his operations as Mr. Darwin has done, to those occurring in mere physical nature, is alto- gether to misinterpret the functions that intellect and reason were destined to subserve. As we have no other power in nature akin to the human in- tellect, so we are not entitled, in the spirit of induction, to argue from the results produced by that intellect to the operations o'l the unreasoning ma- terial agencies of nature. [This accords with the views we advanced in a late article, and counteracts Dr. Lindley's assumption that gardeners "exert no influence whatever," that "they alter nothing, make no variety even, &c."] — (Gard. Chron.) Propagating Agapantiius. — The last week in April, or early in May, is the best time to divide Agapantiius for increase, and there is no otiier way of doing it than cutting the roots — that is to say some iiundreds of coils of tiie finest looking roots must be cut rigiit through up and down, and sideways of the ball, before it is practicable to reach where the diflereiit branches of an old ])lant jniu to;,^, ihcr in order to sejflirate \hv\n. Th(> rea- son is this, — the feeders arc so siroiig and numerous in the Agajiaiiihus, that by the time it is too old I'ur hloiiiiiniLr strongly, thi- soil is all but gone, and the ball is made out of the roots \\1ikIi iiave intcrlaeed so that no pa- MARCH. 141 tience or ingenuity can separate tliem without cutting. Even if the ball was washed by pipe and hose, till there was no particle of soil left among the roots, it would take a week or ten days to undo the roots without break- ing them. — (Col. Gard.) Societies. CINCINNATI HORTICULTURAL. At a late meeting the following officers were elected for the year: — President, Thos. 11. Johnston. Vice Presidents, Wm. Heard, Wm. Orange, P. S. Bush. Corresponding Secretary, K. P. Cranch. Recording Secretary, Geo. L. Frankenstein. Treasurer, Robt. Clarke. Librarian, Wm. Addis. Council, Wm. Addis, John Jackson, Thos. Knot, and J. E. Moltier. BROOKLYN (n. Y.) HORTICULTURAL. The following are the officers for 1862: — President, John W. Degrauw. Vice Presidents, S. J. Eastman, J. A. Wallace, Lyman Burnam, R. W. Ropes, and Henry M. Bearnes. Treasurer, J. W. Degrauw. Corresponding Secretary, C. B. Miller. Recording Secretary, J. C. Martin. The regular business meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month, at 7|, P. M. ILLINOIS STATE HORTICULTURAL. The Annual Meeting was recently held at the Tremont House, in Chi- cago. After the conclusion of business the following officers were elected: — President, C. B. Galusha, of Kendall Co. Vice Presidents, 1st District, C. D. Bragdon of Cook; 2d, Robt. Douglas of Lake; 3d, Chas. H. Rasentiel of Stevenson; 4th, J. H. Stuart of Ad- ams; 5th, A, Bryant, Jr., of Bureau; 6th, J. F. Nash of La Salle; 7th, M. L. Dunlapof Champlagn; 8th, K. H. Fell of McLean; 9th, N. Overman of Fulton; 10th, J. Huggens of Macoupin; 11th, Jos. E. Starr of Madison; 12th, G. H. Baker of Union. Corresponding Secretary, C. T. Chase of Cook Co. Recording Secretary, W. C. Flagg of Madison Co. Assistant Rec. Secretary, J. S. Little of Lee Co. Treasurer, S. G. Minkler of Kendall Co. PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL. This old society is about being brought into more active co-operation. The society has taken the large second story front room on the corner of 142 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Broad and Walnut Streets, which will be fitted up for weekly meetings, and such arrangements made for the coming year as to render the weekly gatherings the most attractive in the city. The committee recommended that the room and library be open every Tuesday throughout the year. P:iss:ic!)iisttts portitultural 5otirfjr. Saturday, Jan. 4, 1862. — The stated quarterly meeting of the Society was held to-day, — the President in the chair. The President then proceeded to address the Society, in some appropri- ate remarks, referring to the state of the country, and its effects upon horticultural science. The Finance Committee were added to the Executive Committee to aid in securing a location for a new Hall. The amount of f3200, appropriated for prizes for 1862, was unanimously confirmed. M. P. Wilder and Jos. Stickney and the Fruit Committee were author- ized to arrange in regard to the proper period for the exhibition of apples for the prizes of the French Fund. The Committee appointed for that object reported that it was expedient to change the days of exhibition from Saturday to Wednesday. The re- port was not accepted. C. M. Hovey, from the Committee, reported the names of the following gentlemen as a Committee of Arrangements for the Annual Exhibition; and they were unanimously elected: — P. B. Hovey, J. S. Cabot, J. F. C. Hyde, E. S. Rand, Jr., D. T. Curtis, W. C. Strong, W. J. Underwood, E. A. Story, A. C. Bowditch, C. H. B. Breck, P. Barnes, F. L. Winship, and R. M'Cleary Copeland. The sum of $400 was appropriated to the Committee. On motion of M. P. Wilder, tlie Executive Committee were authorized to make suitable arrangements for tiie reception of the Pomological Society, at its next meeting in Boston in September. On motion of C. M. Hovey, it was voted to postpone the filling of any vacancies in the offices of the Society till the regular annual election. The Executive Committee reported the List of Premiums offered for 1862, with their approval of the sainft. John Tohnan, Sumner Doane and Win. Wallis were elected members. Adjourned one week to Jan. 11. Jan. \ I. — Adjourned meeting, the President in thn chair. The Committee of I'ubliciition presented the publi.shod Rrpnit of the Proceedings of the Society. The Committee of Arrangements reported tliat the Annual Exhibition should be held on the 1(5, 17, 18 and I'J of September next. Adjourned three weeks to Feb. 1. MARCH. 143 FOR MARCH. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. The month of February has been cool and stormy, with much snow and but few warm days. The snow now covers the ground, throughout the North and East, to the depth of fifteen to thirty inches. Grape Vines in the early grapery will now be ripening their crop ; and will need little more attention than stopping the laterals, and maintaining a proper temperature. Vines in the greenhouse and ordinary grapery will begin to break, and will require some care : syringe freely for a week or two, and do not force too much until all the eyes are well started ; then tie up to the trellis and air more freely as the season advances. Vines in pots, now in fruit, should be liberally watered, and new vines may be brought in for a succession. Vines may be grafted now, and cuttings put in for rais- ing a young stock. Peach Trees, in pots, may now be brought into the grapery or green- house for an early crop. Orchard Houses should be well aired to prevent an early growth. Root Grafting may be continued. Scions of fruit trees may now be cut, and preserved in sand or earth in a cool cellar. Grafting may be done this month, commencing with cherries. Strawberries, now ripening their fruit or coming into bloom, should have an abundance of air, and a situation near the glass. Fruit Trees, of all kinds, may be pruned towards the close of the month, and the stems washed with whale-oil soap for the destruction of insects. flower department. The continued cloudy and stormy weather of last month, though not so cool as to require heavy fires, has prevented that vigorous and stocky growth which direct sunlight can only give: opportunity should be taken, on the approach of better weather, to air freely to make up for this. Con- tinue now to repot all plants which require it, and get in cuttings and sow seeds of everything wanted for the summer decoration of the garden. Azaleas will now be prominent objects of beauty, and continue, with proper management, to be the greatest ornaments of the house until June. Plants kept in the coolest part of the house may be brought forward suc- cessively into a warmer teuiperature. Water liberally while in flower, and a slight shade from the hot sun will prolong their beauty. Plants done blooming should now be pruned into shape. Young stock may be repotted. Camellias will now begin to push their shoots, and should have good attention, syringing every fine day. Prune old plants into shape. Shade from the hot sun. Young stock may yet be repotted. 144 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Pelargoniums will be growing rapidly now; give an abundance of air, and tie out the shoots of all specimen plants so as to prevent a weak growth. Water rather more liberally and fumigate if the green fly appears. Late cuttings may be potted, or shifted into larger pots. CrNERARiAS will require attention. Water carefully, tie out the flower- ing slioots, and fumigate often. Caladiums and Begonias may be divided and potted, and growing plants shifted into larger pots. Heaths and Epacris may now be propagated; young stock may be shifted into larger pots. Calceolarias should be repotted; keep near the glass. Lantanas for early bloom should now be shifted into larger pots. Stocks, Pansies and other Annuals, raised from seeds, should be pot- ted off, and as soon as well established removed to a cool hotbed or frame. Japan Liliks may have anotiier shift this month. Petunias, Verbenas, and other bedding plants, for very early bloom, should be encouraged by a shift into larger pots. Ferns of many kinds should be repotted. Acacias done blooming should be pruned into shape. RosES should be shifted into larger pots. Chrysanthemums should be propagated. OxALisES done blooming should be sparingly watered. Dahlias may be started into growth for early blooming. Chinese Primroses in small pots may be shifted. LiLiUM giganteum should be repotted. Continue to Propagate Salvias, Heliotropes, Cupheas, Verbenas, and other bedding stock. Orange Trees may be grafted. Rhododendron Seeds may be planted. vegetable department. If our directions of last month have been attended to, the hotbed will now be ready for all kinds of seeds or plants. Where there is much stock new beds should now be made to contuuie the growth of many things after the heat of the old ones is e.xhansted. Tomatoes now well advanced should be potted off. Sow seeds for a succession. Cucumbers may now be hilled out, placing the cartli in the confre of each light, and turning out the plmts carefully in the centre of each hill. Maintain a good tcuiporaturc by lining the bod with fresh manure. Seeds of M(dons and Cucumlii'r.s may l)c sown R)r pl:inting out in the open ground. Purple Egg Plants already u|) should Ix' potted olT. Cabbage, Cauliklowek, Hroccoli, Lkttl'ck, and all otlic^r seeds ehould be planted. I'rotect the bed with a good covering of mats during cold nights, and air freely in warm sunny dayH. THE PRODUCTION OF NEW PLANTS. The production of new plants by fertilization has, within the last twenty-five years, become a subject of the deepest interest, and attained an importance hitherto unappreciated by cultivators. Through the labors of amateurs and practical men our collections have been enriched in an eminent degree, and the character of some families of plants very materially changed and improved. The English, the French, and the German cultivators have produced numerous beautiful plants, but the French have achieved the greatest results, and have given us the most unique if not the finest additions to our gardens. Our own cultivators have not been neglectful of the aid of fertilization in producing new plants ; and though but few have engaged in the practice, the results have equalled, if they have not surpassed, in some instances the most successful efforts of foreign cultivators. Notwithstanding so much interest has been manifested in the subject, and so much accomplished, very little has been written by our own cultivators upon the production of plants by fertilization ; and the means by which great changes have been produced, which are so important as a guide to future experiments, remain unknown, save to the skilful cul- tivators who have labored so long and unremittingly to attain the object in view. It is time more was known in rela- tion to fertilization, and we hope that in the future both ama- teurs and practical men will communicate more freely the details of their experience, and the method by which they have been enabled to accomplish so much. In one of the early volumes of our Magazine, (Vol. III., p. 97), we reviewed the progress of hybridization and cross breeding, both abroad and at home, and its condition at that period. But in the twenty-five years which have now elapsed vast changes have taken place, and entirely new features have been given to some of our most popular plants. Very few experiments had then been attempted by American culti. VOL. XXVIII. — NO. IV. 10 146 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. vators, and these were duly noticed, and our article was therefore not only the record of progress to that time, but a detail of the method of practice, with some suggestions in regard to the improvement of certain classes of plants. It is a source of gratification to know that from those suggestions many cultivators began the production of new plants, and renewed interest was manifested in the general subject of hybridization. It is proper, therefore, that we should put upon record at this time some of the achievements of our own cultivators during this twenty-five years, that the progress which has been made may incite to fresh endeavors in the same direction, for it is to this source we must look for new objects of interest ; actual discoveries in nature being of rare occurrence, especially from the temperate regions. Henceforth the cultivator is to be the creator of new forms, and our gardens will be enriched less by the introd action of new species than by the combina- tion of those we already have. Looking back to the period we have already mentioned, we find the only plants which had then occupied the especial attention of American cultivators was the Camellia ; our col- lections of which, though meagre compared with the present day, contained some very handsome seedlings, produced mainly by Messrs. Floy and Harrison of New York. But the varieties produced by these growers were soon surpassed by young and zealous cultivators of this magnificent plant. Col. Wilder and Messrs. Hovey of Boston, Messrs. Buist and Mc- Kenzie of Philadelphia, Messrs. Feast and Kurtz of Baltimore, and Messrs. Becar and Boll of New York, raised tlie stantl- ard so high, that even the most skilful florists of Europe have been unable to reach it. The Chinese Azalea, then limited in the number of varie- ties, was taken in hand, and though with less success than the camellia, some of our American seedlings equal the best European varieties. It was not until the later species, varie- gata and (Jlcdstancsii, were introduced from China, that im- portant changes were made lierc or in Europe. The Rhododendron and Hardy Azalea, the finest of all our hardy shrubs, — the glory of the European gardens, — the APRIL. 147 almost unknown plant in American collections, lias received but little attention, and but limited acquisitions. We are immensely behind our transatlantic friends- with our own native stock. Indeed, we must first cultivate the well known kinds before it can be expected that we should add improved varieties. Still, in the azalea we have accomplished a great deal ; and our own seedlings will many of them bear a good comparison with the English and Belgian sorts. We must here renew our advice to every lover of beautiful shrubs to add these splendid shrubs to their gardens. Planted in masses or even as single specimens in properly prepared places, they afford a magnificent display of flowers and foliage. By hy- bridization, very superb varieties have been raised by the English and Belgian cultivators, and it but needs that we should give the same attention to such fine plants, to secure varieties equal to any yet produced. The Pseony, both tree and herbaceous, has received a fine accession from American cultivators, but the number is not large, and but few amateurs have engaged in the work of improvement : so far these acquisitions have not come up to the latest foreign varieties. Yet there is no reason to sup- pose we may not, with careful breeding and tlie use of the best material, be as successful in this as in other plants. Seedlings, to possess a real value, should be distinct in their character, and those who attempt their growth should follow the' example of M. Parmentier, the great Belgian improver of the pasony, who turned his attention to the production of deep colored flowers, which were greatly wanted, the lighter colors being already abundant. He succeeded in obtaining a large number of deep violet and purple-tinted seedlings, remarkably double, which have given an entire new feature to this magnificent garden ornament. The Pelargonium, to which more attention has been di- rected by English cultivators and latterly by the French than any other flower — preeminently beautiful as it is — has found but few enthusiastic admirers or zealous improvers in this country. Some years gone by, the late Mr. Hogg raised sev- eral seedlings, but this was before it had attained its present floral eminence. Messrs. Beck and Hoyle and other amateurs 148 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. brought out its grand features, and the improvement thus begun has continued up to the present moment. Tlie fancy and spotted varieties are of- recent origin, the latter being a decided gain of the French cultivators within the last ten years, who have supplied nearly everything bizarre and odd. AVe have our- selves produced some seedling pelargoniums of great beauty, and we see no reason why our cultivators should be depend- ent upon European skill for what they can produce themselves. The Verbena, of which some of the parents were first introduced to Philadelphia, and originally described in our pages, has occupied more attention generally than any other flower, undoubtedly from the ease with which it is cultivated in the open air, wliere seedlings can be tried without the aid and the shelter of a greenhouse. For a time our American seedlings were superior to many of those of foreign growth ; but with either more care in the saving of seed, or thorough fertilization, the French florists produced a new strain, which, taken advantage of, produced the prominent eyed varieties, whicli at first were introduced from abroad. Our own cultivators, however, have accomplished so much that the honor of introducing new varieties must be pretty equally divided between them and European cultivators. The Petunia, the Phlox, the Lantana and other flowers, though enumerating some American seedlings of rare beauty, are rather exceptions than general. The Petunia, in its unique combination of color, is of French origin, as is the Lantana and Phlox ; the latter especially having been brought to its present perfection by Messrs. Lierval and Fontaine. The Gladiolus was cross bred by the late Hon. and Rev. Mr. Her- bert, but his experiments were with the tender kinds. The Gandavensis tribe received its first great change from the French, and all the varieties, with a very few exceptions, are of the same origin. The English have however, the past year or two, been successful in producing some new kinds which arc stated to fully equal if not surpass the French ; but of this we liave no personal knowledge. AVc are convinced, however, that American cultivators have only to make the attempt, to add to our gardens tlic most beautiful varieties. APRIL. 149 On the other hand, the Japan Lilies have, like the camellias, been brought to the highest perfection by American cultiva- tors; and we can challenge the world to produce as many dis- tinct and superb varieties as our own gardens contain. These additions have been made by thorough hybridization; a thing which is often spoken of, but rarely done. For that is essen- tially different from what is called cross breeding; that being merely the fertilization of one variety with another ; while true hybridization is the fertilization of one species with another. This distinction should be borne in mind, for it is in the latter experiments that the greatest changes are made, and the re- sults most uncertain. The Japan lilies have been obtained by hybridization of the Japan, the tiger, superb, and Cana- dian lilies, one with the other, so that the seedlings partake, more or less, of the characteristics of each. The robustness and hardiness of our natives is mixed with the more tender nature of the exotics, and a vigor of growth, redundance of foliage, and intensity of coloring added to the beautiful Japan species. With the new Japan lilies just introduced by Dr. Siebold and Mr. Fortune, we hope to reap still more varied and equally admired types of this superb flower. We have not time to enumerate some lesser plants, which have occupied the attention of our cultivators. We have chronicled the greater and more lasting achievements, and have shown, we think, that young as we are in horticultural science, we have not neglected opportunities for advancement; that we have active and zealous amateurs, who will not neg- lect any means to maintain the skill and high standing of floricultural art in this country ; and if they have not done more, it has not been because they were not ready for that duty, but because the general taste has not kept pace with the skill of our cultivators. We might, in this connection, say something of the progress of hybridization and cross breeding with fruits, but this we leave to another opportunity, as we do some notice of the condition of hybridization abroad, which appears to be at- tracting unusual attention at this time, and has called out much information, which we wish to introduce to American amateurs and cultivators. 150 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. HALF HOURS WITH OLD AUTHORS. BY WILSON FLAGG. IcHNOGRAPHiA RusTiCA : OF the Nobleman's, Gentleman's, and Gardener's Recreation, containing Directions for the Surveying and Distributing of a Country Seat into Rural and Extensive Gardens, by the Ornamenting and Decora- tion of Distant Prospects, Farms, Parks, &c. By Stephen Switzer. London, 1742. This work, though written before Mr. Brown had com- menced his revolution in English gardening, contains nearly all the useful and important rules and principles of the mod- ern style, and sliows tliat the way was fully prepared for Mr. Brown before he attempted his works. The author alludes in his preface to the general evil arising from the extravagant Slims of money which were appropriated to ornamental gar- dening, a circumstance that disheartened many from engaging in such works. His object was to show how their taste might be gratified with more simplicity and less expense. He thinks the hours which many employ in observing the color of a tulip, or the edging of a leaf of box or holly, were better em- ployed in open and extensive views ; in the regularity of this plantation and the wildness of another ; in the sweet mean- ders and the precipitate falls of a river, or the rising of hills or promontories on each side, or adjoining. And he recom- mends to his countrymen the advice, new in his time, which had been given by the authors of the Tatler and Spectator, whose satire was chiefly aimed at the tonsure of evergreens and vegetable sculpture, as practiced in that age, after the example of the Dutch. Our author remarks tliat tlie great modellers of the gardens existing in liis time " had their Magazines of Phmts ; and it was natural for them to tear up all those beautiful plantations of fruit and forest trees wliich tlioy found in their way, and contrive; ])bins whicli were likely to turn more to their ])rofit. And tills it was that introduced the Dutch taste, of which people of the connnou l(!vel of understanding grew so fond ; being delighted with little niceties and fantastical operations APRIL. 151 of art, always tliinking that the finest which was least natural ; while those that were most capable of art were always most fond of nature ; being persons who were chiefly sensible that all art consists in a study of nature. On the contrary, the Dutch taste, wliich came in with the revolution, was almost universally followed." Mr. Switzer proceeds to illustrate a maxim which he lays down, and wliich has since been repeatedly quoted from Sir Humphrey Repton's works, and attributed to him as his own original thought, viz., that greatness in character does not con- sist in size and dimensions. He remarks, " in all cases the lawn or parterre should not be too large, since 'tis a very wrong way of thinking to imagine that true greatness consists in size and dimensions ; whereas, let the works be ever so large, unless the parts cohere in harmony, there will be but a great many littlenesses put together. " This aiming at an incomprehensible vastness and attempt- ing at things beyond the reach of nature, is in a great meas- ure owing to a late eminent designer (Bridgman) in garden- ing, whose fancy could not be bounded. And this notion has been in many places carried so far that no parterre or lawn that was less than 50 or 60 acres, some of them 80, 90 or a 100, were by him esteemed capacious enough, though it sometimes took up the whole area of ground, and made the building or mansion-house in the middle look very small, and by no means proportionable to it. " The same extravagant vray of thinking prevailed also, to a great degree, in his plan of lakes and pieces of water, with- out any regard to the goodness of the land which was to be overflowed, but which he generally designed so large as to make a whole country look like an ocean." After tlie very sensible remarks of the author upon great- ness of character, as distinguished from greatness of dimen- sions, .and upon the fooleries of vegetable sculpture, it is amusing to find him advocating all the absurdities and ex- travagances of marble sculpture. I will give his remarks, in an abridged form and very , nearly in his own words, as a specimen of the peculiar taste of the age in which he lived. The grace, in his opinion, and the majesty given by statues to 152 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. a country-seat, are very great. The greatest and the politest people of the world, the Romans, have filled almost every highway and public place with the statues of their Paires Patrice, as a grateful tribute to their merit ; and their gardens at the present day, as well as those of France, abound so much in them, that 'tis in that point they are likely to outdo the people of England. He proceeds to give some rules for the local distribution, magnitude and general proportion of statues. He considers it an unpleasant sight to view Jupiter, Mars, Neptune, and the rest of the deities, misplaced by a meanness of spirit on the part of the designer, and perched upon a little pedestal ; one like a citizen, a second with a pike in his hand, like a foot soldier, and the third upon dry land, with a trident, like a cart-filler. These are great injuries to the politeness of the statuary, and misrepresent the several deities. Others place Pan, as a tutelar god, in the flower garden, while Ceres and Flora are the silent inhabitants of woods and groves. He alludes also to certain improprieties in their gestures and habiliments ; Neptune in the management of his sea-affairs embracing Amphitrite, and Mars in his armo- rial array dallying with Venus, are incongruities which ought to be avoided. He goes on to say that Jupiter and Mars should possess the largest open centres and lawns of a grand design, elevated upon columnar pedestals, with their servants and vassals underneath ; Jupiter with his Mercury, Mars with Fame, and the rest of their attendants. The niches ought to be filled with the lesser gods, or. with the warlike heroes of antiquity, or even of modern times. Nci)tunc should possess the centre of the greatest body of water, in his chariot, attended by the Naiads, the Tritons, and his other sea-attendants. Venus ought to be placed among the Graces; and in all lesser centres it would be proper to place Apollo, with the Muses in the niches, Minerva with the Liberal Sciences, &c. Then Vulcan with the Cyclops in a centre of less note, and all the rest of the deities disposed in their particular places and order — Flora, Ceres and Pomona to their several charges ; and the Fauns and Sylvans to the more remote and rural centres and parts of the woodwork. APRIL. 153 He thinks Yeims, Diana, Daphne and Flora, with their attenda.nts, may be complete furniture for the flower garden ; but they ought not to be small, but larger than life ; though the author does not say how the life-size of these deities is to be determined. The noble grace afforded, in his opinion, by an abundance of these figures (larger than life) placed all over our rural gardens and plantations, is charming to con- template. He would, under this head, enlarge upon urns, obelisks, pieces of ruins, and other lapidary ornaments of a country seat, but he leaves them for his chapter on buildings. He concludes all this obsolete discussion by a remark which is more in accordance with good sense. After considering that certain plain buildings, which gentlemen are obliged to construct for convenience, have a better effect than the most curious architecture, he adds : " There seems to be a much more inexpressible entertainment to a virtuous and thought- ful mind, in desolate prospects, cool murmuring streams, and grots, and several other cheap and natural embellishments, than in what many of our modern designers have recom- mended, in themselves very expensive." His remarks concerning grass are of a practical st)rt, and they may contain some hints which have been forgotten ; for it is well known that some good rules of practice in all the arts are sometimes temporarily forgotten. He thinks that in the beauty of its lawns England excels all other countries, and this is owing to its damp, cool, and moderate climate. The cheapest way of procuring grass walks is certainly by sowing hay-seed ; but, if turf is to be had near at hand, he would always recommend it, for there is some trouble as well as uncertainty in the first ; it must be weeded, and is apt to be thin or entirely bald in spots, and it will never be so fine as turf. However, if seeding is to be performed, he recom- mends that it be done in the autumn, for that sown in the spring is not so good, and he advises that the seed be chosen from those pastures where the grass is naturally fine and clear. He thinks it unwise to procure turfs from any great distance, for the coarsest turfs that are near at hand, by a little good keeping will become fine, and be in some degree better than if they were originally fine. Fine turf is well 154 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. known to be cut from commons and sheep-pasture lands ; but in order to save expense he has known it cut in the rankest pasture ground adjoining gardens, in March, when it is short. And this, coarse as it seemed to be at first, became afterwards, with rolling,, mowing and cleansing, as fine as the best sheep- walk turf, and not so apt to grow mossy, and to abound with weeds of a coarse description, that spoil the fineness of the carpet. It is generally thought that the sheep-walk turf, coming from poorer land and being placed on richer land, is improved by this change ; but he adds, " it is a great fault to lay that and any sort of grass on rich land, which is always apt to be full of worm casts, and so a continual burden and trouble to the green-keeper." If the ground, therefore, is naturally rank and good, he recommends a coat of more indifferent mould, three or four inches thick, to be laid upon it, or else remove the whole surface away. But if, on the contrary, it be hot burning land, lay on several inches of good strong loam or heavy clay soil. This will wonderfully preserve the grass in the summer season, and always keep an agreeable verdure.* All slopes in particular of this dry hot land should be thus covered, because, without it, they cannot retain the rains to refresh the turf. These first-mentioned rules, how- ever, he remarks, are applicable to the garden in particular. As for other exterior parts, the ground cannot be too good, if it is designed for feeding ; and its goodness will preserve the verdure as well as the pasturage, and a good green he con- siders one of the pleasantest colors in nature. There is nothing remai'kable in his essay upon water, but some parts of his discourse on wood deserve attention. The planting and sowing of wood, and guarding country houses from tlic winds, beside the other advantages of shady walks, cannot be thought of too soon ; neither, he remarks, can the aged parent leave a better legacy to his family than young woods and coppices growing around his liabitntion. Th(^ ex- pense is little, and it is attended with great profit and pleas- ure. Towards the advancement of this end, if the liousc is without coppices and woods at a reasonable distance, which is the case of a great many old as well as new scats, he advises APRIL. 155 tlie fencing in and sowing a wood or a coppice of twenty or thirty acres. If the house is to be built, by the time it is finished you may see a great progress in the growing coppice. In four or five years you may expect to find the Witch and Dutch elms, limes and other trees eight, nine, or ten feet high, from the seed, and, as it were, struggling which shall outvie the others in growth. This sort of woods, as they are more natural and rural than the formal plantations, so much in use in his time, are also less expensive, an acre of this be- ing made full five times cheaper than the other. And as the making is so much cheaper, so likewise is the keeping ; for, being of a much more natural aspect than set plantations, the less keeping will suffice. A nursery of regular and w^ell-managed plants will repair any defect, and make what addition the designer pleases to the beauty of tliese woods. When, by any of these methods, these rural gardens shall be laid open by extensive avenues all round, in a simple and unaffected manner, and when those large sums of money, which have been wasted upon the trifling and diminutive beauties of greens and flowers, shall be lightly spread over great and extensive parks and forests, they shall be gardens worthy of the politer taste of Great Britain. The author in these remarks has evidently anticipated the revolu- tion in rural taste which soon followed, and to which his writings contributed a principal share. " In the mean time (he remarks) I cannot but humbly recommend the study and practice of these things to the no- bility and gentry of Great Britain, with all the earnestness that the profit as well as the nobleness of the subject requires ; that by it they also gain another two-fold advantage, the health of their bodies ; and by employing the poor, reap another, very often delivered from the pulpit." " If any former attempts have proved unsuccessful, let not that deter them from renewing the charge. They failed probably from wrong measures, among which the excessive expense of gardening may have been one. But from this method laid down, the decoration and improvement of a country seat will not be that expensive bugbear it may of late have appeared to be. And indeed by what observations I 156 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. have made in many parts of this kingdom, there is generally twice the money expended on a had design as would have made a good one.^^ The author alludes to excess of ornament, which is vastly more expensive, and, after all, less charming and interesting than nature and simplicity. I cannot bring this essay to a conclusion without quoting the author's excellent remarks on the pecuniary profits de- rived from such a plantation as he has recommended. " And here it may be supposed that I should give a pecuniary cal- culation of my observations on this head. A friend of mine has only a little grove of oaks, which he very often views with satisfaction. It is about a hundred yards long, and forty wide, which, multiplied together, makes three fourths of an acre and twelve roods, on which I computed were above 160 oaks, that in about 120 years' time would be worth, at a mod- erate computation, X5 a tree, which is in all, X800. As for the expenses of sowing and fencing, the underwood sufficiently pays for that, and much more than that, all the while. And I would from this, appeal to any bank or trade, whether any person can lay out so small a matter of money to so great an advantage, and having, besides, the pleasure of seeing those hold sons of Jove advancing their summits towards the skies, in a perfect emulation of one another. It seems to be the glory and endeavor of the most provident part of men to heap up wealth for their families. And sure they cannot possibly do it better than in this, when perhaps, for the laying out of <£100, their heirs will be repaid above sixty-fold, even £6000, exclusive of the rent of the ground. A valuable return for so small an expense." His " next consideration is the healthful, easy, and cheap distribution of time it affords, which would otherwise lie heavy on our hands. For as man is an intelligent, rational being, and lias a mind always in action, cither in that wliich is good or Iiad, how is it possible ho can employ liis tlioughts and liis hands better, than in tliese busy, innocent, hapjiy and successive t(.)ils, that follow each other in [)runiiig, dressing, and ordering of mii-series and our other ])lantations ?" APRtL. 157 CORDON TRAINING OF FRUIT TREES, ADAPTED TO THE ORCHARD-HOUSE AND OPEN-AIR CULTURE. BY REV. T. COLLINGS BRE'HAUT. The trees are planted at intervals of 36 inches from stem to stem along the wall, as seen in the engraving (fig. 4), where thej are all at the angle of 45 degrees, even the tree only in the first year ; but this was unavoidable ; that is, the trees are laid in at 3 feet from each other only. My own trees are planted and trained at 30 inches of interval, but this is too little — 36 inches are preferable. Each tree, in the engrav- ing, is represented as having either three leaders fully grown, or in the case of the tree of the first year, it has dot- ted lines indicating the future position of the other two leaders. In the tree of the second year, the second leader has ascended half-way up, while the first leader is completed. In the case of the tree of the third year, the first and second leaders being completed, the third leader is now half-way up. The two trees of the fourth year have all three leaders com- plete, and the complementary tree which fills up the corner is shown as having its leaders fully developed. The extreme corner is completed as seen by extra short leaders, and in the first year's tree the corresponding corner is indicated to be filled in by an upright leader with short side branches, so as to cover the whole space. This filling up of corners cannot be done so well with trees on the common method. Of course, in the first year, all the trees, if planted simul- taneously, would all be alike, having one leader and blank spaces for the two future ones, and in the second year the whole wall would look like the tree of that year ; and so on. But at one glance the different years can be seen and under- stood. I must add, that if the trees shall be planted at 36 inches from each other, the intervals between the leaders will of course be 12 inches, i. e. the shoots on each leader extend 6 inches either way. Forerights are also preserved (not rep- resented, to avoid confusion); but this is a very important part of the system, and adds much to the beauty of the whole, making each leader like a green cable having blooming fruit 158 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. embedded in appropriate bowers of leaves; not buried, but visible and well exposed to the sun's rays. I do not remember seeing any trees trained exactly in this fashion, and as to the combination of culture, under glass, APRIL. 159 witli the great advantages to be gained by this particular Cordon^ it is this which has chiefly induced me to publish the results at all. By this excellent, but too little known method, the most splendid crops can be grown, and it is not too much to anticipate the time when every back wall of an orchard- house, or of a forcing nectarine-house, will have its Diagonal Cordon on three leaders. One will not do; two are only rather l)etter, but with three success is certain. More than three would take too long a period to cover the wall, by ex- tending the four years necessary with three leaders, to five or six years, in which case little time is saved. Neither can a Cordon on other principles than closely spurring-in be very successful. At any rate it is far inferior in every way, and unworthy of competing with the one now described, especially in the quantity of fruit obtained. I can cordially recommend this kind of Cordon to ama- teurs, having had the greatest success with it of any. It will not suit span-roofed houses, which have, of course, no back walls. But lean-to houses are far warmer. Perhaps a union of the two would be useful. Span-roofed houses are handsomer, and, when very large, extremely beautiful. In this case other kinds of Cordons are more suitable, such as vertical, with pyramidal bases, which will be described presently. The formation of a Diagonal Cordon with three leaders is thus commenced. Straight, well-grown trees, one year old from the graft, are selected. These trees are planted in the open ground in October, November, or December, but the earlier the better, and in the orchard-house, at any time dur- ing the winter, except in frosty weather. They are laid at an angle of 65 degrees against the wall, in either case at an in- terval of 36 inches from one another. One third of the top of each tree may be removed ; but there is no objection to the whole row being cut to an equal height, unless in the case of particular trees. A healthy front bud is chosen, in eve^'y case, to cut down to ; therefore when I said equalize them, of course it is far better to regulate their height by the bud you cut down to; because you must have a healthy leaf-bud, and below it must be no blank spaces where there can be no shoots. 160 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. If blank spaces occur, then reject that tree or it will cause you trouble ; but if jou choose to retain it, either because of the sort, or because you fancy it, then cut down well to a good bud, no matter how high or how low you meet it. It must be in front, because the wound is thus far less difficult to hide. This is of great importance in Cordon training. If you must cut to a side bud, then you have no very straight stem after all the care bestowed on the rest. There must be no unhealthy wood near the leading bud. How often, by neglecting this simple rule, has the trouble of years been wasted ! Cut, sloping upwards at a gentle angle, till you get to about an eighth of an inch above the bud. The trees are then well tied to the wall ; the young laterals are brought forward on either side neatly, and the back shoots are gener- ally cut in to one or two buds ; for if you cut them off there will be no reserve to supply accident. Sharply cut back these slender laterals to two eyes or buds. At this stage these are small, therefore be in no hurry to cut them off. Then the forerights are to be similarly treated, i. e. cut back to two buds, and the trees are ready. If the wall has wires or rails, these must be at 12 inches of interval. Then a light guiding rod is tied above the end of the leading branch in order to direct the future young wood. Prepare and place this at the winter arrangements. Water freely for some weeks. No wall under 11 or 12 feet high is eligible for Cordon training. If in the open ground it should have a good coping of one or two feet to ward off the drenching rains. If, as was said be- fore, you do not immediately require the trees, or have not your wall or house quite ready, then pot the trees till that period, and no time is lost; at any rate, a reserve of some half-dozen should always be kept thus potted in case of any accident or otherwise. Thus, if one of your trees become unsightly or deformed, or refuse to progress, then remove it without delay, and place one of your potted trees (the most vigorous) in its place. This the amateur must particularly attend to in Cordon training. Trees one year old are cheap, and so are pots, and there is no excuse for not having a reserve ready trained on the same system to supply vacant spaces. APRIL. 161 With respect to the color of walls for orchard-houses (lean-to's), white is preferable to black, though the latter has certain advantages, but which are most attainable out of doors : I mean with respect to radiation, but wliite is certainly preferable for Cordon training, as so much of the wall is cov- ered with leaves that no burning can take place. A coat of lime-wash is invaluable on account of that " rubra cura" — the red spider, which is the pest of peach-houses, and requires to be kept down by regular syringing and ventilation. The white color adds also very much to the appearance of a house, and if a dash of rose or pink be added, the effect is consider- ably heightened. Then with pillars of a clear blue, and rud- dy gravel walks between the well-kept borders, the whole may be as ornamental as any conservatory ; and there is no reason why a little gilding should not be shown on the cor- nices, &c., especially as the house should be devoted to chry- santhemums in the autumn. To return to the plantation of the row of young trees on the Diagonal plan. A little watering as needed is the com- pletion of the first year's work. In the spring of the ensuing season, the two eyes or buds to which the laterals have been cut will generally each pro- duce a shoot. If we call these two shoots, on which the fu- ture work will be done, the " right and the left shoot," and the original first growth a " spur," it may tend to simplify the matter. These two shoots are, then, the " second growth " on these " spurs." As soon, therefore, as these second growths have made six leaves — any small leaves at the bases which have no buds in their axils, do not count — pinch down to two leaves on the upper side of the tree, and to three leaves on the loiver side. The reason for this difference is found in the more vertical position of the upper shoots, and therefore in their greater tendency to elongate. As to the lower-side shoots, they, from their position, will be only too inclined to become covered with fruit-buds, and in their case we must look for obtaining some leaf-buds also. To repeat: these second growths (i. e. the right and left shoots) having reached 6 leaves or 4 inches, must be pinched back — if on the upper side of the Diagonal leaders, to two VOL. xxvin. — NO. IV. 11 162 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICDLTUEE. leaves, and if on the lower side thereof, to three leaves. In a short time each of these leaves left will put forth another stage of young shoots, springing from tlie axils of the leaves. Tliis is the "third growth." As soon as this " third growth" on either side has reached three leaves, pinch back all to two leaves. A " fourth growth " must be closely pinched in to one leaf, and if anything more grows, pinch it closely in also. These third and fourth growths would be bearers of buds, able, in ordinary seasons, to bear the next year, as well as the buds on the second growth; but in practice, the object being to keep the spurs and the growths on them ivithin six inches, these late growths must be held in the light of "feeders" to the others, just as two eyes are left beyond a bunch of grapes to draw the sap to the fruit. These successive growths in the summer pinchings may exceed the six inches by an inch or two in some cases, especially in forerights, while they may only reach to five inches in other cases ; nevertheless, the rule is to keep them as near as possible at this extension. In the winter pruning they will be shortened in alternately, as will be described. At the risk of tedious repetition, I must refer again to the engraving, (fig. 4.) The tree in the right-hand corner (marked 1st year) will represent the appearance of the whole of the row of trees at the end of the first year's training. This is the second year of plantation. The tree with its single leader A will have reached more or less to half-way, or two-thirds of the wall, supposing this to be 12 feet high. A certain portion of the tree (that of last year to which it was cut back,) will now appear clothed with wood. The spurs on either side of the leader A will each have their two shoots pinched back successively to, say, 6 inches in all. The foreright spurs and shoots on them are also to be treated by pinching them as if they were on the upper side of the leader ; but they are not shown in this dia- gram, to avoid confusion. At the base of the single leader A, and at 12 inclics from the surface, a strong shoot from one of tlic spurs has been allowed to extend for 12 inches later- ally, so as to be in readiness to form the second leader B APRIL. 163 when required ; but if allowed to extend, and to be turned up when it reaches the 12 inches (which it is destined to do), so as to form the second leader B, then it would injuriously affect the growth of the first leader A. From this rule no deviation must be permitted. I have spoilt too many trees from impatience, not to warn others against this error. Cut this lateral back in winter to a healthy bud, and guide it by a light rod perfectly at right angles to the leader A. The tree which is now being described does not show this lateral, be- cause it is in the corner, but the second year's tree will show what here is meant. The dotted lines indicate the position of all future leaders, and thus E E explains how (in the case of the corner tree only) a future vertical leader in the direc- tion E E Avill ascend, and future diagonal leaders be developed from this, the only vertical one, as marked F F. Winter Pruning. — Let us suppose that when the leaves drop off from the trees there will appear two shoots on each spur, each shoot composed of the various growths of this season. Now the fruit will only appear on the wood of the second year. In this case the fruit buds nearest to the spurs themselves are on this wood, and the fruit will appear at the base of the spurs, and only in some cases at their top. Of course the trees are very young to bear, but they will do so in many cases, and if this occur, then only one or two peaches must be allowed to remain on each tree. By the close spurring-in practised during the summer, and the not having had recourse to the old and ridiculous method of choosing long weak shoots for the bearing wood, the buds at the base of the spurs will generally become fruitful. AH the fruit, if any, will appear on the bearing wood at the base. The young tender laterals on the young extremity of the leader, which has ascended some way upwards, must be pinched down to two buds previously to this period. The two shoots on each spur must now be shortened in. One must be left long for fruit (if possible), and the other must be cut short to furnish new wood to bear alternately. The long shoot must be cut to any triple bud yoxi can find within the six inches prescribed. If you find no triple bud on either shoot for bearing, then cut them both back alike to the 164 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. two leaf-buds nearest to the spur. But if, as is generally the case, you find the triple bud desired, leave this shoot long, and cut the other to two leaf-buds, to furnish two new bearing wood shoots for the year after next. If you find a triple bud to cut down to in the case of the shorter shoot, this is an ad- ditional advantage, as it is fruitful, and you have a double chance of peaches. But the whole system revolves on these two shoots, which in time become three or four, — one of them being left long to bear, and the other being cut short to suc- ceed it. In this way a succession of fruitful wood is sure to be obtained, while on the old method, when once a shoot had borne, it was slightly shortened in, and permitted to bear on the new growth ; so that in time the fruit was produced so far from the centre, that a severe pruning, most injurious to the peach, was needed. The shoots on the spurs multiply in time, and are cut back, or left long, as required. Every suc- cessive pruning must have for its object to keep the bearing wood close and compact, and allow on the long shoots left for fruit just enough of leaves to nourish the fruit. Two shoots for each spur are required. If any spur have not tiie necessary two shoots on it, then it is a vast defect, and must be remedied by pinching back judiciously at first, and by endeavoring to encourage the single shoot to become double ; of course the nearer to the spur the better. In this case all our endeavors must be directed to obtain the two shoots, quite irrespective of fruit, and at this winter's pruning, if there be but that melancholy single shoot, then vigorously cut in to two leaf-buds, — not the fruit-buds, — for if you do the spur is ruined for ever. However, even then the lohole tree is not spoilt, for there are so many spurs, and so many shoots, that a remedy can always be found. A practiced eye will see the difference between a fruit and a leaf-bud almost at once — certainly by midsummer ; while a mere beginner would be puzzled to decide till the ensuing spring. Second Yearns Training. — We come now to the tree in PIG. 4, marked " second year." The first leader A will rap- idly ascend and reach the top of the wall, and the lateral left to form the second leader B, having also shot out, is turned up shar])ly, when it has reached twelve inches from its APRIL. 16 starting place. It will, in the course of this j^ear, reach to about half-way towards the summit of the wall, as seen. As soon as the first leader A has reached the top, pinch off the end ; this will strengthen the second leader. The second leader will be shortened a little at the winter pruning, as the case may be, always remembering to cut to a front bud. The pinching of the various growths on the two shoots goes on thus this year. That on the longer shoot must be pinched in more closely than that on the shorter one, because it would extend too far otherwise. It may reach to seven inches with- 5. FRUIT-SPUR ON THE PEACH, SHOWING THE SUCCESSIVE GROWTHS, AND ALTERNATE PRUNING. out any confusion, and if a foreright, and in the orchard- house, it will even be better so. Thus the new wood on the long- shoot may well be pinched off to one leaf as soon as three leaves are formed, and the next time also to one leaf, as soon as two leaves are formed ; and so on. But the shoot or shoots shortened to two buds will require to be allowed to grow by a leaf more at a time. Thus, as soon as four leaves are formed, pinch back to two leaves, and afterwards to one leaf. All this will be readily understood after a season's practice. Of course those natural shoots which make their terminal buds — and are called by the French " rameaux a fruit bouquets," because they appear like a small nosegay, — should not be touched wherever they appear. 166 THE MAGAZINE OF HOKTICULTURE. They will soon be known, and generally spring from the bases of the spurs. See fig. 5, of fruit-spurs on the peach, where it is seen springing from the base of the spur, and is marked E. The present winter's pruning of these two shoots now requires notice. Taking figs. S-and 6 of peach spurs, — A indicates the original spur ; B the right shoot ; C the left shoot ; D the right shoot which has developed another one, and E the natural fruit-spur. Fig. 5. — Here, on the spur A, the right shoot has grown by successive starts (as seen by the divisions) upwards. The little elbow above B is that part of the shoot which was left 6. FRUIT-SPURS ON THE PEACH — ALTERNATE PRUNING. SECOND APPEARANCE. beyond the last hud pinched down to, and often dries up rap- idly. Two triple buds appear on the second growth, which are to be carefully left. They will be found in fig. 6, as devel- oped into two new shoots marked there B and D. But at present the shoot is to be cut back to them, and failing them, to two leaf-buds for wood shoots. Never cut, by any means, to single flower-buds, because tliere should always be a Icof- bud at the extremity of every part, no matter where or of what strength. In a triple bud tlie central one is a leaf-bud, and the other two (lower-buds, and thus it unites every neces- sary qualification. The left shoot in fig. 5 is also seen. The second growth APRIL. 167 has, or may not have, its two triple buds ; most likely it will, because that is the place to look for them, and pinching-in helps miich to this important end. Then, higher up, appear the third and fourth growths, the former having a neat little lateral, which is far more likely to be fruitful than a powerful shoot. These latter shoots, called "gourmands" by the French, were the bane of the old systems, and do what you would, if on the upper side they always would come. In vain they were cut back ; in vain they were twisted and pinched off; the least neglect produced a vigorous shoot, like a leading branch, just where it should not be. Of course the sap rushed with tenfold violence into these enticing corners, and of course the gardener did not see it, and then, by the winter, the rest of the branch was languid and feeble, and the tree spoilt. But in this system all this is rendered nuga- tory ; there is little or no danger of this occurring. Instead of this giant, we see a neat little fruitful shoot, which, crowned with an appropriate bud, is very like a natural fruit- spur. Leave these alone, and cut down close to them, as seen in FIG. 5. The branch is then, with its short right shoot, ready for wood-bearing or not, as the case requires, and its long left shoot cut for fruit, having a chance thereof at the two triple buds on the second groivth, and on the neat little lateral be- fore so commended. As the nearer wood is the ripest, if the fruit appear on the triple buds below, so much the better ; at any rate there are plenty of chances, because this little lat- eral, though born, say in August, will probably be quite ripe — at any rate it will be in the orchard-house. In PIG. 6 we have the same spur A, and on it the same second growth B and C, only B has developed into two long shoots, and these have been successively treated as recom- mended. In the winter the new development D is cut back to two new buds, generally triple, and its fellow left long for fruit, of which there must be a great chance somewhere or other. You can hardly fail now. The left shoot C has borne a peach or nectarine, where the triangle near C indicates its place. After bearing it is cut back, so as to secure new wood. In succeeding years, by the time the wall is covered, say in 168 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. four years, all the leaders should have their spurs crowded with these long and short shoots, two, three, and four to each ; and as I said before, remembering to have a leaf-bud at every extremity, and to keep half short for wood, and half long for fruit, how can any one fail to have fruitful trees ? This is all the care required for the spurs and growths on them, remem- bering that if the long shoots in summer, from their very length, grow to seven or eight inches long, they have always the corresponding short shoots on the opposite leaders ; and as these may not extend beyond some five inches, one will fit into the other. At any rate it is of no matter, for after this experience a man must be dull indeed who could not manage to get his wood compact and short somewhere. There is no danger of not having superabundant shoots of all kinds, and you can cut them clean out of the spur whenever you like ; besides, they may have grown into two shoots, as many do, immediately from the leader itself, and then you have abun- dance of room. Let my readers be assured of all this, and practice it fearlessly : " cut boldly and fear not." As Mr. Rivers says of potted trees, " Any one can manage them ;" and I daresay any lady could manage a Diagonal Cordon easily and successfully after reading tliese instructions. As to the getting the third leader to grow, it is now easily seen ; and when the three leaders are fully grown, all that is required is to allow a foot or two of the extremities, as in vines, to grow upwards, and then to bend them downwards gradually, and cut them off in the autumn. This exhausts the superfluous sap, and keeps the upper shoots fruitful. Nevertheless, I must beg to say that it is the lower shoots that are likely to languish first, and therefore they must not be too rigorously pinched in, but rather favored, and rested from time to time. The finest fruit will be near the top, whicli proves the abundance of the sap and juices at that ])art. A Belle Beauce peach in my own orchard-house bore thirty- two fine peaches on the leaders A and B, but of course the top of A was not very rij)C, and half of B was quite youthful. Reinc des Vergers, which bore early in August, had twenty splendid ])eaches, all on the lower ])art of A, it l)cing in the second year. Calande had twenty-eight on a similar part, in APRIL. 169 spite of the backward season, and the nectarines Early New- ington and Hardwicke Seedling (a delicious nectarine), were also very fruitful on this leader A, Malta, Chancellor, Bour- dine, and Pucelle de Malines were magnificent, though very young trees. I like Malta by far the best : Noisette calls it his favorite. Leroy, Rivers, and many others speak highly of it; and, being not too vigorous, let me seriously recommend it. It is a Septetober peach, and the one that hangs so well on a tree : no mean quality. Nectarines, however, and clingstones (Pavie peaches), which come late, and will find their day of triumph in Eng- land before long-, are best suited for the back wall, because they are the most valuable. So prolific is this plan, that I would not recommend the mid-season peaches for it ; you can have them in the pots. A very early peach, but not the little nutmeg peaches, should be placed in a warm corner, and trained in this way. Acton Scott is scarcely good enough. Early York or Crawford is better, or some of the new Ameri- can varieties, which before long will be our very best early peaches. Stanwick nectarines crack, but they have done tolerably well with me this unlucky year. They are really splendid, though they generally require forcing. I only repeat, to end this chapter : keep to the wood of the second year ; and as every shoot which has borne fruit will not again bear, it is well to cut off the shoot which has given fruit as soon as it has done so. This is better for the prac- ticed hand to do than for a mere beginner, and should not be done in the early stages of cultivation. IN-DOOR GARDENING. FROM THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. In-door gardening, or the culture of plants in living rooms, has hitherto received but little attention, notwithstanding the great number of plants cultivated in this way. That there is a great want of information must be apparent to all who 170 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. hear the complaints of amateurs, disheartened in their at- tempts to secure healthy plants under this kind of treatment. Disheartened, because a strong and healthy plant, the very embodiment of vigor and beauty, becomes in so short a period, when transferred to the in-door apartment, a long, lean, lank specimen, — the ghost of its former self, — and the faihire to regain anything like a handsome specimen induces him to give up so pleasant a species of culture, and forego the grati- fication to be derived from a pretty collection of flowering plants. That there are obstacles to overcome in the management of house plants cannot be denied, especially when, as is now so general in our cold climate, our dwellings are heated by furnaces, and made air tight by double windows during the winter. The warm, dry atmosphere, kept up both night and day, are inimical to a healthy vegetation, and in it plants will often languish and die. Yet, with the exercise of proper care and skill, much may be accomplished even under such ad- verse circumstances. It is important therefore to know what this careful treatment is. We do not intend at this time to answer, ourselves, this question in detail, but rather to invite attention to a scries of articles by a lady writer of experience, who very satisfactorily supplies the information so much needed, and so evidently derived from actual practice, that it may be relied upon as a guide to success in the entire treatment of in-door plants. We have the pleasure of an acquaintance with several ladies who cultivate their plants with such consummate skill that even the best specimens of grecnliouse culture would not surj)ass them. Pelargoniums, primroses, azaleas, roses, ver- benas, monthly carnations, and even camellias -are successfully grown and flowered, and tlieir windows are gay with blossoms the larger part of winter: this, too, in furnace-heated rooms, so very prejudicial as we have already statcMl, l^ut tlic secret is, tliat tli(;y are not reared in sucli a hot place, but brought forward in cooler and more airy rooms, till the period for their blooming arrives, when the accumulated vigor of such treat- ment carries them safely through the adverse circumstances in which they are placed. A plant already enfeellcd sinks under it. APRIL. 171 The general impression is, tliat all plants must have just such an amount of heat: this is true at some period of their growth, but they also need a period of repose, and this can only be obtained by temperature, reducing it below that point at which their growth is excited, and not so low as to endanger tlieir life : thus, in our warmer seasons, nearly all plants have a tendency to exceeding vigor, and when removed to the house if the heat is still applied they continue to grow, though deprived of sun and air ; the result is, that such a growth is weak and unhealthy — the constant excitement preventing the formation of buds or blossoms, or at least only in a partial degree, and, ere spring arrives, they droop exhausted and worn out. If, on the contrary, such plants, when removed in doors in autumn, are placed in a cool and airy room where the frost cannot reach them, they ripen and mature their wood ; they become stout, stocky and healthy, storing up strength against the demand that will be made upon them ; and when in due season they are transferred to the warm air and sunny aspect of the parlor window, they break into growth with great vigor, and, carefully treated, flower as profusely and are as ornamental as the average of greenhouse plants. These then constitute the principles of success, which we may enlarge upon at another time : 1st. A vigorous summer growth. 2d. A cool, light, and airy situation, until the period of blooming in winter or spring. 3d. Repeated showerings with the syringe. With these general hints, we commend the following re- marks to the careful attention of all lovers of in-door gar- dening:— In writing a few hints on the care of window plants, I think my best plan will be just to set down the things of which my own plants remind me, mentioning also any past experiences and any especial hints that have proved useful to me. Win- dow gardening is indeed, from first to last, always one series of constant new experiments. One plant surprises us by growing so very well ; another will not grow ever, and an- other disappoints us till we hit upon some quite unsuspected secret, and then we wonder that so small a thing could signify. 172 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. And that is a thing for window gardeners to think of — there is no small thing in gardening-. A little more or less water, and a little more or less air, and a little more or less light, and a little more or less warmth, are just the very things on which depends the difference between beautiful healthy flowers, or poor, scraggy, ill-conditioned plants. Bulbs most likely, and cyclamens, camellias and heaths, will be all the flowers we have in our windows now. In plant cases of course we can have more, and those we have last longer, but we had better first consider our open flower stands. There are two or three dilemmas I foresee for the hyacinth growers. Sometimes a bud which we thought was nearly out begins to turn brown and shrivelly. This is most likely caused by some change of temperature. For instance, one of my glasses in the hard frost last week was put upon a chimney- piece, where I did not observe it. The consequence was that two or three buds got damaged by the heat and dryness. Besides, if the bulbs are in a window, looking to the east and south, a very hard frost at night, followed by a sunny morn- ing, is likely enough to result in some scorched and shrivelled plants, caused by sun or fire heat touching the foliage if it has got frozen. These plants should therefore be moved at niglit away from the window, but never brought near the fire. Then there are hyacinths which will not grow up at all. I would not be in too great a hurry, because when they are just in flower they often grow very fast — and there is not any ex- act means then of stopping them when we wish to do so ; but if it is certain that they do not grow, a thick piece of drawing- paper rolled up into a cone, with a small opening left in it at the top, is a good way of making the blossom rise. Standing the plant in a plant case or putting a bell glass over it, is however a more certain and much more pleasant plan — for, rolled up in [)aper, tlie [)oor flower looks as if it were under a great extinguisher. My own ]iy;u-in(hs have always been remarkably fine, when allowed to stand for a week or so in a glass case, cither cold or very sliglitly wanned. If grown in water llicy must now be kej)t well filled up. Last winter some of my best were APRIL. 173 half way up the bulb in water, and a spoonful of pounded charcoal was put into each glass. Washing the leaves with a large camel's hair brush and tolerably warm water is a marvellous help to hyacinths. If any one wishes to have these flowers in glasses, or China dishes, in which they have not grown, the roots can be most readily washed from the soil if they have grown in pots, or even in garden beds, and can be arranged with tulips, scillas, crocuses, or narcissi, in either sand or water. The only thing to be careful for is not to break any roots whatever. I always find by far the safest plan is to wash the soil away and to wash it in again if they are to be replanted. Hearing that large trees moved safely thus, it struck me that the water-loving bulbs would surely answer also ; and, in point of fact, I have moved quantities of things in this way, and never known them damaged. It is necessary, how- ever, to be very careful to see that the roots have not grown down through the pot, or got themselves mixed up with pieces of crock or charcoal. If they have, it is not safe to move them. Then there are the cyclamens, the loveliest of little flowers, and sometimes very sweet. These, like the hyacinths, require a great deal of light, but in their love of coolness and delight in air they far more resemble snowdrops. In fact they will not live or flower tolerably in too warm a place, and though they must not be dry they do not like much water. The Cy- clamen persicum will be in flower for several months longer, and any one who wants three or four pretty — I may say ex- quisite little plants, will be very safe in obtaining some of these. It is a matter of taste, but I do not think that the variegated-leaved kinds are as pretty as the others. Varie- gated leaves, I think, are meant instead of — not to accompany flowers. Few people, I think, are proof against the delight in spring of having Lilies of the Valley, with all their fragrant scent and their delightful freshness, growing up in clusters in their drawing-room gardens ! At the moment I write (in the first week of February), there is just such a cluster delighting me by its promise whenever I turn my eyes to that corner of my 174 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. plant case. No less than 14 blossoms does that one flower pot promise ; and then, besides, there are tlie lovely leaves, which rival the flowers in beauty. These lilies were taken up last autumn in one good lump, in the nursery whence they came, put into the flower pot, and allowed to stand first out of doors and dry, and then in-doors just to be safe from frost, while water was given them by very slow degrees. Barely a month ago I placed them in my plant case, at the warmest corner (inuring them to it, how- ever, by a day or two spent previously at the cooler end), and there they almost at once began to shoot up strongly, till, as soon as I found them sufficiently advanced to show the little buds by the side of the folded leaf, I removed them thence into a lighter window, and placed them there in a cooler spot, giving them no longer any heat to the roots. Standing in a box of cocoa fibre or sand, they do not need often watering, but occasional washing with a paint brush and fresh warm water is a great advantage, in both securing a fresh and healthy growth and preserving them utterly from the ravages of green-fly. As soon as the blossoms are fairly open, the pot may be taken to a sitting-room table, only, if we are anx- ious to preserve the delightful flowers, we shall be very care- ful to cover them with a shade when the room is hot and dry, or wlien lamps and gas are bnrning. When the flowers fade, they may be cut off" at once, but the leaves should be carefully preserved uninjured till they die off" naturally. The pots tlien may be laid on one side in some out of the way corner till about November when it be- comes time to take them in, and to water them. It is quite a mistake to suppose that they will not flower well a second year. 1 have had them do so at least three years togetiicr, and judging, by the aversion the plants have to be moved, I should say with confidence that the longer they last, the bet- ter they will bloom. A little soil should always, however, be scraped oif each year before wc begin to water them for spring growth — and some nice leafmould, or cocoa-nut fibre, should then 1)C put on. ]jy using plants in pots one holds the time of growth so much in one's own hand that I have had these lilies blossom- APRIL. 175 ing as early as February, and as late as September, without any help beyond a plant case, and a window sill. Even without the former, one is not much worse off, a kitchen chimney-piece for the first three weeks' growth, " while the buds are swelling," and then a window-sill, will give us not very much later, and not at all less healthy flowers. Window gardeners now should bear in mind their balsams, and their lobelias to be raised from seed. An old lobelia plant also, cut down to about three inches from the ground, keeps putting out little shoots which root very easily put into Band and water. The sand should be in a saucer, just enough water to wet it well and cover it — and the little cuttings dot- ted in all over. This may be placed also on a chimney-piece, though the best thing for it is certainly a warm plant case. These cases, to which, from my continual use of them, I am obliged to allude so often, are frames of glass set on a wood- en, zinc-lined box, which is fitted with a case for containing hot water. The water being renewed each morning before it cools, communicates so much warmth to the sand or fibre, that it retains some heat for very many hours. These cases are certainly very pleasant adjuncts to a window garden, yet it is really wonderful how much may be done without any means at all — but with an inventive genius, basins even, filled now and then with hot water, hot sand — even little lamps for very special plants — what a world of pleasure there is in all our own contrivances. A row of little bottles containing each a cutting often is a means of striking delightful plants. The difficulty however is how to accustom plants thus grown to a more solid food when the time comes to plant them ; of this, however, we must speak another day. At the present moment I want only to give one hint — people are apt to think plants must be wrapt up so very warm at night just like so many chickens. The real truth is that the heat in which they stand should be always in exact pro- portion to the amount of light — light days warmer, and dark nights cooler — keeping clear of just the loioest degree allowed for the kind of plant, in its particular state — the sunny days 176 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. or the sun 11 J aspects bringing with them their due degree of extra warmth from sun heat — the duller days and the more northern aspects having a lower heat. Plants lengthen in heat, but they only increase in light, and window gardeners all may well lay that hint, long laid down, to heart. POMOLOGICAL GOSSIP. Strawberries in Missouri. — The Missouri State Horticul- tural Society recently held its annual session at St. Louis, and the proceedings are now publishing in the Prairie Farmer. Among much interesting information in regard to our well known fruits in that section, we find the following discussion about strawberries, which may interest cultivators of this fruit. It corroborates what we have stated about the Wilson, and shows that that old variety, the Triumph de Gand, reject- ed by European cultivators, as well as the amateurs around Boston, some years ago, has no qualities which should com- mend it over other foreign sorts. The discussion was as fol- lows : — Wilson's Albany. — Mr. Morse. I am opposed to it for family use. E. B. Coleman. It is the most productive. Knox prefers the Triumphe de Gand. Wilson's Albany is sour. I place McAvoy's at the head. Mr. Pettingell. Is it more liable to drought here than others ? It is on the prairies. Mr. Morse. My ground is gravelly witli a southwest expos- ure. A year ago the drought was bad, and Wilson's Albany suffered a little the most. Last season I saw no difference. Mr. Clagget. I do not like it for family use, but it is of good size and hard enough to bear transportation well. N. J. Coleman. I prefer it because — 1st. It is the most j)roductive. 2d. The hardiest. 3d. When fully ripe it is good. APRIL. 177 Too many pick it when it has just turned color; when fully ripe it is sweet. We have had fifty varieties, and it is three times as productive as any ; it beats the Triomphe de Gand four to one. Mr. Claggett. I do not consider it the most productive. Think we will cause mischief by so commending it and en- dorsing it for family use. Mr. Mudd. I don't like such a cheat for family use — it is too sour. B. B. Colman. It needs very careful mulching to keep the berries out of the dirt, owing to its short stems. President. It is not ripe generally as seen in the market ; it is ripe when the seeds are brown ; it is then much improved. Recommended for general cultivation for market purposes. Triomphe db Gand. — Mr. Morse. My experience is short but satisfactory. A year ago I would have voted for Wilson's Albany for family use, but now for the Triomphe de Gand. It is larger and superior in quality, though not so productive. Mr. Saunders. I have not seen much of it. It is not pro- ductive so far, and not better than native berries. It is late and long ripening. E. B. Colman. Knox says it is the best in America. I set out plants last spring ; they bore some good fruit the same year. Mr. Morse. It is a hermaphrodite berry — flesh slightly red. Mr. N. J. Colman. Knox is too far away to be authority here. I cannot say the berry promises well. Such was the discussion on these two sorts, which was not very flattering to either of these pufFed-up strawberries. The Wilson was "sowr" and a '•'■cheatf^ the Triomphe de Gand " not productive," " no better than native berries ;" and anoth- er member, in speaking of the cultivation, of this fruit, said it was " too soft." Mr. N. J. Colman, who seems to appreciate the Wilson, says it is " three times as productive as any." Now the Down- er is said to be six times as productive as the Hovey. Taking the crop of the Belmont cultivators, the only positive data we have of the actual product of any crop of one acre, — except the Cincinnati or Kentucky growers, which is only 1300 VOL. 2XVIII. — NO. IV. 12 • 178 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. quarts, according to a statemeut made bj the Cincinnati Hor- ticultural Society, — which is 4000 quarts, Downer's would give 24,000, and Wilson's, three times as productive, 72,000 quarts ; quite a nice crop ! Such statements look rich on paper ; we should like to see the vouchers for the actual meas- urement in quarts or bushels. It is, however, really cheering to record some progress, and that is that the Missouri Society will not commend the Wilson for family use ; it is only fit for the market — that is, it will do to sell — and we suppose by this that those who purchase in the market don't want good fruit. . Are our Missouri friends unwilling the market should be sup- plied with superior strawberries ? American Strawberries in Washington. — Mr. J. Saul, of Washington, in writing about some of tlie English strawber- ries in the Gardener's Monthly, concludes as follows: — "Na- tive varieties are as numerous as the foreign. My great ob- jection to nearly all is want of size and flavor. Hovey's Seedling, take it all and all, I consider the best of all Ameri- can strawberries. Whilst giving this as my opinion, I am fully aware in some sections of the country, and in some societies, it has been condemned. There may be soils and climates not suited to this valuable sort ; but about our city, in the hands of intelligent cultivators, it has proved itself in- variably ahead of all other native sorts. Fillmore (Feast's) is very good ; large good color, rich and very desirable. Wilson's Albany can be recommended for its immense pro- ductiveness only, being sadly deficient in flavor." We agree with Mr. Saul as regards the wont of size in many of our American varieties, but when he speaks of want o£ flavor we think he is greatly in error, or else we have been sadly led astray in our taste. AVe cannot name one foreign strawberry which at all equals several of our American kinds in flavor. Indeed, all the former are coarse, watery, and more or less insipid — Rivcrs's EHza, Victoria, and Tri(jmj)he de Gand, which Mr. Saul thinks a fine berry, especially so, and cannot bo compared with Sir Harry, Sir C. Napier, or La Constantc. We have cultivated and frciiucntly cxliibited every foreign strawberry of any reputation introduced the last tliirty years, and have not found one which equals some of APRIL. 179 our native seedlings. As regards size, no foreign strawberry- surpasses the Hovey except Admiral Dundas, and this only under the highest culture. Hale's Early Peach. — At a recent meeting of the Cin- cinnati Horticultural Society, Dr. Taylor of Cleveland spoke "well of this peach, and said he had some last season much earlier, larger and finer than any other variety ; they were ten days earlier than the Early Tillotson, and the earliest and best grower — fully equal to Early York. The tree was fine, healthy, thrifty and hardy. It stood the winter well. DooLiTTLE OR Black Cup Raspberry. — This variety, which . has been pronounced by some an improved accidental variety, and by others as nothing more than the common Black Cup improved by culture, is stated by some cultivators to be one of the most profitable sorts for market purposes, being en- tirely hardy, requiring no protection, bearing profusely, and, withal, an excellent fruit. We have no experience with it. FLOWERS FOR DRY GROUND. BY MRS. ISAAC CLEMENT, MECHANICVILLE, N. Y. I have taken notes the past season that may be useful to others who live on high ground exposed to the burning sun, and wish to cultivate a few flowers. The plot of ground where these flowers grew is in front of the house, a space of ten feet wide, on the brink of the third terrace, some fifteen feet above the street ; the groun'd is copiously supplied with cobble stone of all sizes ; they have been taken out about one foot deep, and loam mixed with the surface soil. There had been box edging set, by a former owner, on both sides of the walk, from the steps of the terrace to doors in the rear of the house ; it was all killed but about thirty feet protected from the west wind by the house. I made an edging of pinks, a dwarf-growing double pink, name not known, which does well, (only growing too fast), and blossoming profusely. Small Balsam firs, set out in the spring of 1856, are now eight 180 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. feet liigli ; Purple fringe, small well-rooted layers, set out at the same time, are seven feet ; Purple Persian lilac, five feet. Herbaceous perennials that do well, are the following : — Iris, both white and blue. Fennel-leaved Paeony, Doiible Hol- lyhocks, White Valerian, Mullen Pink, Sweet Williams, Bee Larkspurs, Salvia Tenorii, Veronica austriaca, and Spergula pilifera, (the far-fetched lawn grass), as far as the hot sun and dry ground is concerned ; a small seedling plant turned out of a pot in July, 1861, grew to be a mass ten inches in diameter by fall ; it looked green when the snow went off in the spring, but by the time the warm rains and sunshine came, it looked as yellow as a piece of scalded moss, but the sun revived what little life it had left ; a new growth of green was seen making its way through the yellow mass, and soon covered the old coat with a green mantle ; it has spread much larger the past summer, but no doubt will have to undergo another scalding in the spring ; as it looked then, I should as soon think of seeding a lawn with chickweed ; it breaks easily, and does not seem constituted to bear the tramping that a lawn would get; I often find pieces pulled out, as if done by the birds or dogs. Annuals that do well are the Sultan's, Sweet Mignonette, Sweet Alyssum, Viscaria oculata, Centaurea americana, Cen- taurea cyanus, Eschscholtzia, Portulacca, Antirrhinums, Nigclla, Cosmea, Larkspurs, Nemesia, Candytuft, Lavatera, Petunia, Argemone, Datura, Zinnia, Ageratum, Phacclia, Polygonum, Gilia capitata, Campanula Loreii, Crepis barbata, Centranthus, Athanasia, Bartonea aurea, Annoda, Upright Mignonette, Clary, red top, Scabiosa. The foregoing kinds of flowers received no artificial water- ing; the ground was well worked before planting, whicli was done early in May, and hoed occasionally when required. THE GLADIOLUS Wk were just al)oiit preparing an article upon tlio Gladio- lus, which has been an especial favorite with us, and one we have cultivated extensively for several years, commcnciug APRIL. 181 with the new hybrids, which have now become so common and universally admired, but the following hints which we find in our English contemporary, the Cottage Gardener, are so much to the point that we are relieved of that labor, and we present them to our readers as safe and reliable in the superior culture of this flower. Mr. Standish, who has been so successful in their culture, resides at Bagshot, where the soil is a dark, very sandy peat, just suited to the rhododendron — in fact just such a soil as bulbs like — hence he has raised superior flowers. A good substitute for such a soil is leaf-mould, or very old and de- cayed manure, with sand when the soil is too heavy. The requirements are that the bed should be kept light and rich, and, above all, well drained. The advice to shade the flowers is excellent; we have prac- ticed shading with the best results, the flowers remaining in perfection two or three weeks longer. A flower so truly splendid as the gladiolus has now become deserves and should receive the most careful treatment of the cultivator. — Ed. Few flowers have made in so short a space of time such rapid progress in public favor as the Gandavensis varieties of the gladiolus ; and as this is the best period for making or adding to collections, it may not be out of place, with the ex- perience of the last two years before us, to give a few hints as to its management and as to the additions that may be fitly made to a collection of them. In so doing I look at them as a florist's flower, and shall not attempt to enter into the question of their suitability for garden decorations. There are other and better hands capable of doing this, and I do not wish to go beyond my own province. The history of the flower has been so recently given by Mr. Beaton, who, au fait in this as in all matters connected with plants, many years ago began the pleasant taste of hy- bridizing, when the late dean of Manchester, Dr. Herbert, was so successfully pursuing his experiments amongst bulbs. The French were beginning to draw our attention to the bulbs, and new varieties were reaching us from the other 182 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. side, when our gracious sovereign gave a great impulse to their culture by taking them under her special patronage. Their being placed on the royal table led the frequenters of the court to follow the example set them, and a demand almost unprecedented in the history of flowers has arisen. Fortunately they increase very rapidly, and hence they are being generally distributed over the country, and before this unhappy war broke out in America were being eagerly sought for there, for one Paris firm this time last year had a large order from that country, Alas ! now, muskets and minnie balls would be more likely to command a sale. There was an enterprising nurseryman who had been long known as a successful hybridizer — Mr. John Standish of Bag- shot — who was determined that our lively neighbors should not have all the benefit and glory ; and as he had already been eminently fortunate in fuchsias — for Standishii was amongst the first of the new race, and as his hybrid rhododendrons had shown that he knew how best to obtain form and color combined with vigor of constitution — he set himself to the task. In this he has succeeded beyond his expectations. Both last season and this have shown that he has not only equalled but distanced, especially in the matter of form, the foreign varieties. Souchct has been the most successful raiser there, and each year some of his varieties are intro- duced to us through the medium of the well-known Paris firm of Thibaut & Kctclcu, of the Rue du Charonne. But I think we shall not have need to go across the water to supply our gardens. With regard to form, for which I am a great stickler, re- garding it as the first point in a flower, Mr. Beaton says the florists will never be able to make a circular gladiolus. Per- haps not; but still there is a model which 1 think we may strive to attain to. As the bloom is composed of two trian- gles, we must look tliat the petals forming them be arranged regularly, and that they l)c broad, and not pointed, narrow, or jagged in the margin, and I believe tliat the more circular tlic throat of the flower is the greater will its beauty be. Tiicn substance must l)c obtained. We have it now in some of the varieties ; and as they become plentiful, flimsy APRIL. 183 flowers will be discarded. Nor do I tliink those kinds which partake too much of the oppositiflonis blood will last in favor long. They may many of them be very beautiful in color and even in shape, but they are not the thing for a box of cut blooms : and therefore when we can get those which show entirely enf&ce^ we shall discard those dos-a-dos gentlemen, or ladies, as the case may be ; and I doubt not, as the flower is so tractable and exhibits such an endless variety of colors, shades, hues, tints, stripes, bars, &c., that by-and-by those only which fulfil the conditions will be retained. In the meantime, as the Irish saying runs, " We musn't throw away dirty wather till we can get clane." I would also add, as a requisite, that the flowers should be closely set together. If too far apart the beauty and symmetry of the flower are spoiled. These requirements may .seem to some exigeant; but I am sure in a few years' time that we shall find many flowers now in repute discarded, because they do not possess qualities which now we are not so particular about, simply because the flower is a new candidate for the public favor. Their cultivation and management has had some light thrown on it by the experience of the last tvv^o or three years. Mr. Standish, finding that they throve so well in the light sandy soil of Bagshot, came to the conclusion that they did not like manure ; and even recommended, where the soil was too rich to impoverish it by burning some. He now, however, thinks differently, and advises the addition of well-rotted ma- nure to the bed. They will, in fact, do in any good, rich, light garden soil, but are impatient of bad drainage ; and clay soil, therefore, will hardly grow them successfully. I would myself recommend that they be grown as carefully as we should grow a bed of tulips or ranunculuses, for they are as- suredly worthy of our care. The bed ouglit to be prepared now. The soil should be well turned over and exposed to the influence of the weather ; and if it be not sufficiently rich, the addition of some well- rotted manure may now be made. In March or April, as the weather may best suit, the bulbs should be planted. Drills should be drawn across the bed (one 4 feet wide I should 184 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. consider a good size), at a distance of 6 inches apart. The bulbs may be placed about 6 inches apart in the row and 3 inches deep, placing some silver sand under and over each bulb. "Where the sorts are named the better plan would be to number them as in a tulip-bed, and arrange them as to height when this can be done. They will require very little attention during the summer, save that which every gardener must consider of main importance — weeding and keeping the ground well moved about. When the flower-stems begin to rise, stakes should be placed, as high winds are very apt to twist them about and either loosen them or break them off. If any one have an awning either for tulips or picotees, I should say by all means put it over the gladiolus-bed. Do not let it down save in heavy rains or during scorching sun. But I am quite sure they are flowers that will show the advantage of taking this trouble with them. And if the tulip-awning be moveable it may as well be there as put by ; and for this reason I should recommend the bed to be 4 feet wide, as that is the orthodox width of a tulip-bed. Wlien the bloom is over and the foliage begins to decay the bulbs may be taken up ; and their drying is a matter of some importance. They do not require, as some others, to be dried off gradually, as they then are apt to contract mildew, but it should be done quickly. I have said that it is a very good plan to place each variety in a small flower pot, and stand them at the far end of the greenhouse flue, where the heat is moderate. They thus dry rapidly, and may then be placed in drawers, as tulips are, or else in paper bags, and kept in a cool dry place until planting time comes round again. As to sorts^ the choice will depend on the pocket of the purchaser; and I therefore give three lists — the first comi)ris- ing cheap varieties, mostly of foreign raising; the second, of more choice and new varieties of French origin ; and the third, a selection of Mr. Standish's best flowers: — List No. 1. Brf^ncliloyrnsiM, (loop vermilion. Coiiniiiti fiiliroiiH, criiiiHoii. CiilaridulucoiiH, aaliiion ruac. Don Juan, red. Endyniion, rose, lightly tinted with violot. Ilcbo, pale flesh mottled with car- mine. APRIL. 185 Galathee, flesh mottled with crim- son. Fanny Rouget, rose, lower petals deeper. Mathilde de Landvoisin, white, striped with crimson. Monsieur Vinchon, rose, striped with deep salmon. List No. 2. Mademoiselle Marsault, flesh-white, Ninon de I'Enclos, carnation rose. Osiris, purple and white, curious. Othello, light orange red. Rebecca, white and lilac. Sulphureus, sulphur. Vesuvius, deep glowing red. Achille, deep red, marked with white in the centre of each petal. Berthe Rabourdin, pure white, spotted with crimson. Docteur Andre, bright orange. Edith, carnation-striped. Eldorado, yellow, chocolate feath- er and stripes. Eugene Domage, deep crimson, dark throat, one of the richest in color. Isoline, carnation, violet spots. La Quintinie, bright light orange. Monsieur or Madame Les^ble, white, spotted with violet rose. carmine and violet spots. Napoleon III., bright scarlet-strip'd. Princesse Clothilde, salmon rose. Princesse Mathilde, light rose and carmine. Rembrandt, deep scarlet, very bright. Raphael, deep red vermilion. Solfaterre, sulphur, with brownish feathers, nearly yellow. Solferino, orange scarlet violet, car- mine spots. Victor Verdier, bright red. Vulcanic, scarlet, velvety purple. List No. 3. Minerva, clear white, with pink feathers and throat. Mowbray Morris, scarlet centre, damask markings. Mrs. Dombrain, blush, striped with lake and crimson lip. Robin Hood, scarlet, violet throat. Rosenberg, deep scarlet, blood color. Samuel Weymouth, brilliant scar- let, yellow throat. Thiiza, white, violet feathers. The Caliph, creamy rose, golden tinge. Tom Moore, crimson, with violet crimson feathers. Viola, delicate lemon, purple feath- ers. Agnes, pure white, rich crimson in the centre of each petal, form- ing a star. Aurelian, scarlet, deeper in the throat. Basil, carmine, white centre, and deep crimson blotch. Clara, white with yellowish tinge, beautiful light crimson star. Cordelia, white, ruby throat and feathers. Dr. Hogg, deep crimson, Goldfinder, lemon, buff throat, pure marking. Ivanhoe, dark scarlet. Lady E. Seymour, pale buff", with pinkish tinge. Lemonade, yellow striped in each petal. I may, perhaps, as a florist be too sanguine, but I believe we shall yet see flowers surpassing in beauty even these ; and 186 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. I cannot but think that if the public taste is roused to expect it, the greater care will be exercised by hybridizers to oljtaiu form, color, size, and substance. I may, perhaps, add that those who may desire to have a good and cheap bed, may do so very effectually by procuring some of the mixtures of Mr. Standish's seedling flowers, from which I had a very hand- some selection the past season. FLORICULTURAL NOTICES. New Shrubs and Plants from Japan. — Mr. Fortune, whose visit to Japan we have heretofore alluded to, has returned to England, from Pekin, bringing with him quite a number of plants of undoubted hardiness in Great Britain, and probably hardy in our climate ; for in that bitterly cold city, and on the surrounding hills, nothing can survive the winter except frost-proof species. Dried specimens, placed in the hands of Dr. Lindley, have enabled him to give the fol- lowing list of new things : — Among them is a Quercus sinensis, a fine evergreen oak, with leaves like those of a Sweet chestnut : it is also used as a dye. There is also an extremely pretty two-leaved Pinus, with small elegantly curved cones, and very distinct, slender leaves : a couple of Biotas, apparently distinct from the Chi- nese Arbor vitajs, and at all events different from the varieties of that species now in cultivation. A very nice-looking Vitex, like our Agnus castus, but with handsomely cut leaves, is also in the collection ; and finally, an Artemisia has been brought from Tein-tsin, with stems as thick as tliose of a tree rose, and used by the Chinese to graft chrysanthcnuims; by aid of tliis species we understand that little standards of that fine plant arc easily prepared. The remarkable set of new plants shown last sunmicr in the gai'den of the Royal irorticuUural Society, by Mr. Sland- ish, aiiiiouiK^cd iJini Mr. Forlum^ bad bron busy in Japan. We liavo now bel'oro us evidence tliat some veiy striking spe- cies have been obtained in that country, besides those which APRIL. 187 were then introduced. There is an exceedingly pretty new evergreen Holly, looking almost like a Tree Box, or an ever- green Privet : a superb Primrose, with flowers of the color of Azalea amcena, arranged in tiers one above another : two fine Weigelias, new to gardens, one of which is the W. grandiflo- ra of Siebold ; another, Skimmia ; the Scarlet Lychnis senno ; a Spircea, resembling Ulmann, but with deep crimson flowers ; and a beautiful Deutzia, with double pink flowers. We also observe the Aucuba japonica, with rich crimson berries as large as olives ; now that the male of this plant has been in- troduced, we may hope to see the bushes already in the coun- try, all of which are female, loaded with their glowing fruit. As soon as we have certain information as to which of these and other varieties are safely established, we shall introduce them to our readers in full detail. All that we can do for the present is to announce their arrival. New Japan Lily. — Mr. Standish showed, at a late meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society, a small specimen of a Japan lily, pale yellow, richly spotted with dark brown. The stem, which was furnished with long narrow leaves, stood about one foot and a half high, and the petals of the flower reflexed like those of Lilium canadense. When well grown and flowered it will doubtless prove very ornamental. New Agave or Litt^a. — M. Roezl gives the following account of the discovery of a new Agave of colossal dimen- sions in Mexico. Proceeding towards Tejulpico, near the village of Spirito Santo, he ascended a tolerably high moun- tain, known by the name of Sierra de Spirito Santo, towards which his fancy led him, though it was said that nothing could grow there. Li this place the sky was always clear, the heat intense, so that the ascent is no little matter. How- ever, nothing daunted, I started at an early hour in the morning, and reached the top by 11 A. M. I was repaid for my exertions by finding a capital plant. The king of all the Agaves and all the Littseas was enthroned in this solitude. At first I thought I saw an Agave before me, for its appear- ance was altogether like that of Agave fififera ; its leaves grew crosswise, covered with white threads, producing a fine effect when, from age, they had turned red. Two specimens 188 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. were in full flower ; from a third I was able to gather seeds. However, I convinced myself it was a Littte^a, to which I gave the name of Littas^a Roezlu, in honor of my aged father. The genuine Agave and Littasa are easily distinguishable by their inflorescence. The Agaves have the flowering stem branched like a kind of Lustre ; the Littseas, on the contrary, have the stem straight, without any kind of branching. In Europe, mistakes are often made with respect to the nomenclature of these plants, to which many names are generally assigned. Thus they say Bonapartea juncea, instead of Littaea juncea. The Bonapartea gracilis of gardens, does not even belong to the genus, but to Dasylirium, as does Pincenectitia. Agave fififera, on the contrary, is a true Agave. I collected, with all possible care, the seeds of this precious plant. I also found plants six feet high, covered with seeds, which I took for a new species of Zinnia, and a very beautiful Inga, with very large heads of bright scarlet blossoms. — (^Revue Hort.') 621. RoDA'NTHE Mangle^sii, var. macula^ta. Mangle's SPOTTED-FLOWERED RoDANTHE. (Composita3.) Australia. A half hardy anniiiil ; growing a Coot hisli; with dark rose mid purple (lowers ; appearing in summer; grown in peaty soil ; increased by seeds. Bot. Mag., 1862, pi. SliSO. A new variety of the well known and beautiful Rodanthe, which forms one of our prettiest annuals. This new variety, introduced by Mr. Thomson from Western Australia, is simi- lar to that species, but is far richer colored, " the flowers being twice as large and the disc yellow ; the inside of the involucral ray is bright rose color, dark purple at the base, and the rest of the involucral scales, externally, of a satiny pale pinkish white." Another variety, called sanguinca, was introduced at the same time, but this is the finest of the two. It sliould have a peaty soil. (^Bot. Mag-., Jan.) 622. Malortiea gracilis Ilend. Slender ]\rAL0RTiEA. (Palmca).) Guatemala. Apidin; zrowinz two rnt hi.;li ; wiih himmH foliime ; iiiciciiscil by oflstts; .'Towii in liiilit rich Hoil. Dot. Mni.-., 1812, pi. . '12111 A very dwarf and graceful palm, growing not more than two foot high, with leaves on slender petioles, little more than a span long and one broad, producing flowers scattered along APRIL. 189 slender brandies, ■which are yellow. For hothouse culture, its small size and neat habit will render it higbly ornamental and desirable. (^Bot. Mag., Jan.) 623. Anemiopsis galifornica Nuit. California Anemiopsis. (Saurure83.) California. A perennial, hardy, or half hardy plant ; growing one foot or more high ; with white spotted flowers; appearing in summer; increased by division of the roots; grown in light peaty soil. Hot. Mag., 1S62, pi. 5292. A remarkable plant, first detected by Nuttall at San Diego, California, and afterwards by Douglas, and later by Fremont in his California tour, but living plants were first raised in England from California seeds. It has a perennial fusiform root, with a few roundish-oval leaves on long and erect stems, terminated with a spadix of hermaphrodite flowers without any perianth, but surrounded with six spreading white bracts, of which the three inner are spotted with red, quite delicate and pretty. Whether it comes from far north enough to prove hardy in our climate, remains to be proved ; if so, it will be an addition to our gardens. (^Bot. Reg., Jan.) 624. Stanhopea Wardii Loddiges. Mr. Ward's Stan- HOPEA. (Orchidese.) Guatemala. A stove orchid ; with yellow spotted flowers. Bot. Mag., 1862, pi. 5289. A superb species, with very large orange-yellow flowers covered with small brownish spots, with a dark velvet purple spot at the base of the lip. It grows on blocks of wood. (^Bot. Mag., Jan.) ®on*aI %^\ut%. Culture of Ixias. — The b%st way to grow Ixias of all sorts is to have them potted at the very end of September, in rough peat and sand, in a medium state of moisture — a state neither wet nor dry, and that state to be kept so till the leaves are two inches long above the pots, and the pots not to have a drop of water by hand all the time if it lasted three months. The best way to keep the pots and their contents in that medium state is to plunge them to the rim in sand or sifted ashes, or some loose refuse, but each and all of them, the plunging materials, to be also in a medium de- 190 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. gree between wet and dry. Then with the moisture of the atmosphere during October, November and December, the pots, or rather the bulbs, would and should not need any water whatever. The best place for Ixias of all sorts is a shallow coal-pit, a turf-pit best of all ; and all the Ixias want is just to be kept from frost and no more, and to have lights off every fine and dry day during the whole winter. When the Ixias show for flower, they do it like wheat in the field ; then it is time to raise the pots, to wash them, and to stage them in a dry greenhouse, where they will bloom from the middle of April to the end of May, then go to rest till next potting time, and they should be kept in the same balls till then. — [Cottage Gardener.) Saturday, Feb. 1. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, the President in the chair. The President, Messrs. Strong, C. M. Hovey, Wight and Wilder were appointed a Committee to prepare a petition to Congress in regard to a duty on trees and shrubs. Col. Wilder, from the Finance Committee, reported that they had settled with the Mount Auburn Cemetery as follows : — Total amount of sales in 1861, .... $16,22941 Deduct certain expenses, 184 00 16,045 41 Deduct salary of superintendent, &c., . . . 1,400 00 #14,645 41 Society's proportion one quarter, #3,661 35, which amount had been received and paid into the Treasury. Mr. F. Parkman, from a Committee appointed for that object, made a re- port in relation to prizes, medals, certificates of merit, &c., whicli was referred to the Executive Committee. Adjourned one week to Feb. 8. Feb. 8. — An adjourned meeting — Vice President Wight in tlie chair. The report of the Committee in relation to a duty on trees, &c., was made by Mr. Strong, and after some discussion it was laid upon the table. On motion of Mr. A. C. Bowditch, the following resolution was adopted, with but one dissenting vote: — • Resolved, That it is with regret we see any personal allusions reflecting on any member of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, contained in the Flower Committee's Report, and that we protest against that portion of the Report contained in page 36, in relation to a Heather, ai\d that tiiis protest be entered upon the records of the Society, a,nd published in the Transactions for the ensuing year. Adjourned three weeks to March 1. APRIL. 191 ioilicultiiral Operations FOR APRIL. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. March, without any very warm or cold days, has yet been cool through- out, and the snow now lies upon the ground in this vicinity to the depth of six or eight inches. April is the busy month of the year, and as soon as the ground will admit, preparations should be made for forwarding all kinds of work. Trees should be planted and pruned, vines uncovered, ground trenched, &c. Every moment should be improved at this season. Grape Vines in the early houses will now be ripe, and the only atten- tion required will be the proper airing of the house to preserve the crop. Vines in ordinary graperies will now be in bloom, and should have good attention. Maintain an even temperature, stop all superfluous shoots, and tie in the laterals. Vines in the cold house should be uncovered, and loosened up to the rafters: air freely in warm days, that the vines may not be started too rapidly. Syringe often and close the house early in the afternoon. Vines in pots, now growing freely, should have manure water occasionally. Vines in the open air should be uncovered and tied up to the trellis. Grafting may be done now. Peach Trees in pots, now swelling their fruit, will require more liberal watering. Orchard Houses will need attention ; air abundantly, and preserve a uniform temperature. Grafting should be done this month. Scions of fruit trees should be cut immediately, if not already done. Raspberries should be uncovered and tied up to stakes ; manure and dig the ground lightly. Strawberries should be uncovered, and as soon as the ground is in good condition it should be raked or hoed ; no digging should be allowed. Prepare ground for new beds next month. It is the best season to plant. Currants and Gooseberries should be pruned immediately. CANKERwofril. Before I leave this point, it may be interesting to make further comparisons be- MAY. 203 tween the calendars of these two climates, taking, for example, the month of April, as the representative month of spring, and September, as tlie representative montli of autumn. I shall confine my observations chiefly to the wild plants, as better exponents of the climate than those of tbe garden. Howitt gives the names of 57 wild plants that produce their flowers in Great Britain during the montli of April ; but these are only a selection of the most conspicuous, from a still greater number that might be mentioned. In the vicin- ity of Boston I can enumerate only 29 wild plants which are in flower in April; these are, Aquilegia canadensis, Androme- da calyculata. Anemone nemorosa, A. thalietroides, Hepatica triloba, Caltha palustris, Draba verna, Saxifraga vernalis, San- guinaria canadensis. Ranunculus fascicularis,Leontodon tarax- acum, Gnaphalium plantagineum, Carex margin ata, Tussilago farfara, Polygala paucifolia, Epigea repens, Carex marginata ; and of trees and shrubs, Ulmus americana and U. fulva, Oomptonia asplenifolia, Alnus serrulata, Corylus americana, Salix eriocephala, S. discolor, Myrica gale, M. erifera, Popu- lus tremuloides, Xanthoxylum fraxineum, Acer rubrum. For the montli of September Mr. Howitt enumerates only fifteen wild plants in flower at that time in Great Britain ; while in the vicinity of Boston, the number of wild flowers that come into bloom in September, including those of Au- gust that remain in bloom, is fifty-five. Thus we find the tables are turned in the autumn ; for more than half this number remain in flower during the month of October, when the only remaining wild flower in the British fields is the common ivy. We may, therefore, conclude that there is a greater number of months in England when flowers may be found in the open air, and that they remain in their prime somewhat longer, on account of the dampness and sluggish- ness of the English climate. In New England, on the otber hand, though we are two months behind England on the first of May, we have a full month more of good autumnal weather and of flowers. With regard to summer fruits, June in England answers to July in New England. In June the English people gather cherries, raspberries, strawberries, melons, and early apples 204 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. and pears. In September they gather all the winter fruits which we gather in October. It is evident, therefore, that, as the English spring is two months ahead of our spring, and the English harvest only one month ahead of ours, both fruits and vegetables, on an average, require about four weeks longer for maturing in England than in this country. A REVELATION FROM HORTICULTURAL HALL.— THE DOCTRINE OF FLORAL PERFECTION. BY AN OUTSIDER. The Massachusetts Horticultural Society, equally expert with the quill and the spade, equally at home in literature and lavender, after a fit of periodical somnolence, has awak- ened with a new sensation. However agreeable and refresh- ing this may be to the outside world, long deprived of fresh vegetable products and oppressed with the horrors of civil war, it seems to be a break in the general monotony not altogether relished by a majority of the practical membership of this amiable association, and its savants arc in deep tribu- lation over a bantling of their own production. As an out- sider, but not indifferent spectator of their griefs and well- meant efforts in the cause of strawberries-and-cream-dcvouring humanity, we thank them from the bottom of our heart for any kind of a sensation, not redolent of blood and carnage, and especially for one suggestive of the sweet-perfumed breath of untainted vernal fields and scenes of rural felicity, at this melancholy period, and proceed to an explanation. Tlic Fhjwer Committee of this Society, acting under the auspices of its Committee on Publication, have just issued a treatise on the "Properties of Plants and Flowers," intended, as officially announced in their annual report, as the standard for judging of excellence and perfection in these departments, and as the hasis ui)on which prizes are to be awarded at the future exhihitions of the Society. "All not comi)lying with it," the committee further state, "will bo excluded from com- petition," Tlic cause and necessity of" (his jiuhlication, as scL MAY. 205 forth ill a brief introduction, (said to have been interpolated without the knowledge or sanction of the board,) is the al- leged fact, that " The Flower Committee have been greatly troubled by the general ignorance of florists and exhibitors of what constitutes perfection in a plant or flower." This sweeping charge of " general ignorance " is also reiterated in the report above mentioned, embraced in the records and transactions of the Society. Now it happens that a very large, and by far the most active and influential, portion of the members of this association belong to that very respecta- ble, painstaking, and generally intelligent class of professional "florists and exhibitors," thus censured and coolly shown up as a set of ignoramuses, apparently by their own committee ; and the aforesaid treatise comes before the public in the shape either of a humiliating confession or a self-inflicted libel. No wonder the tasteful and thrifty brotherhood, who vegetate in the suburban districts, both in season and out of season, who get up our nosegays and Christmas trees, furnish us with early fruits and esculents, as well as rare specimens of floral loveliness all the year round, do not feel highly complimented by the appearance of this publication. This " unkindest cut of all " they scarcely deserved, since they are principally men brought up and educated in their calling, thoroughly versed in its most approved theory and practice, and for the most part scientific botanists. As an association for the promotion of horticulture, both useful and ornamental, it is safe to say they are not outranked in this country. To their indefatiga- ble industry and research the agricultural community at large is indebted for inestimable improvements in all branches of its vocation, both as to the quality and quantity of its prod- ucts ; and the denizens of the city no less, for the many ele- gances and luxuries thus placed within their reach. Their social mission, "as a moral and refining element of the great heterogeneous mass, is also an important one, and is being happily prosecuted and widely felt. As a class, they are not only enterprising but enthusiastic in their noble and intellec- tual pursuit, in which they take a commendable pride, com- peting with each other in a spirit of friendly rivalry, and naturally sensitive to unjust criticism. Hinc ilia lachryma. "206 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. But why complain of the specific charge contained in the preface, when the scope and design of the work itself are an implied imputation of a lack of taste and judgment on the part of those for whose especial benefit and instruction it was prepared ? Obviously the presumption of the Society's agents was, that this alleged ignorance existed among florists and exhibitors ; otherwise we must deem them guilty of a work of supererogation in publishing information which their read- ers already possessed, and in vokmteering instruction where they were conscious it was not needed. They complacently put forth a book to enlighten the ignorant upon a subject in which they are especially and chiefly interested ; but when the chairman of their committee ventures to insinuate tha,t they are the persons who need this enlightenment — or rather boldly de- clares, in prophetic phrase, " Thou art the man !"— -their wrath is straightway kindled, and his impertinence is rebuked and denounced on all hands. His " offence is rank," to be sure, and he should have known better than to point his shafts of criticism, even if he thought them well aimed, against his own patrons ; but he may console himself with the reflection that lie is not the first great reformer who has fallen into the same grave and suicidal error. His case is strikingly analo- gous to that of the worthy hard-shell pastor, who gave emi- nent satisfaction to his parishioners as long as he continued to hurl the thunders of Mount Sinai, and the anathemas of the divine law, against sin and sinners in general; but who found he had mistaken his mission when he undertook to grapple with Satan ex cathedra, and make a personal application of the recognized code to his own charge. The author of this preface should remember that, though " the axe is laid in at the root of the tree," &c., no man, (however inspired with dread "of fogyism, or zealous in the cause of progress,) is called upon to wield it for the purpose of hewing" down his own " vine and fig tree," in the shade of whicli he comfortably reposes. The Guths and Vandals will ut we huj)pen to know all llie parties to this (loral enibrog- lio, personally and professionally ; and arc free to say, tliat we have a much better opinion of them tlian Ihcir committee MAY. 207 choose to express, or even than they have of themselves, ac- cording to their sanctioned publications. In a word, we do not believe this alleged ignorance exists among them, or any material portion of them — notwithstanding they have commit- ted tlie superlative folly of laboring to give the public that impression, and are angry when the natural result of those labors begins to be realized. And in denying the premises, this imputation of ignorance and empiricism against the prac- tical members of the Horticultural Society, we also deny the sequence, believing there is no necessity for a work predicated of a mythical condition of things. This volume purports to be a compilation of rules, constituting a descriptive standard by whicli to judge of the merits and excellence of foliaged plants and floral specimens. Its descriptions are very concise, and such as would readily occur to the mind of any amateur florist; they are characterized by much negative excellence, seeing tliat they do not undertake much, either to enter thor- oughly in detail upon the subject treated of, or trench upon debatable ground ; and if they do not supply any real want in horticultural literature, they are at least harmless, like ho- moeopatliic pills. Indeed, a glance at the work will satisfy any one that the evil to be cured by it must be of an exceed- ingly mild and tractable type, to yield to such a simple and infinitesimal remedy. Being an enthusiastic worshipper at the shrine of the floral divinity, we have for the last year, on exhibition days, been a constant visitor at Horticultural Hall ; and have always found there much food for admiration, abundant evidences of taste in selection, skill in combination, as well as of general dis- crimination and intelligence upon the subject of culture — much to praise and but little comparatively to condemn on the score of quality, considering the facilities and resources of exhibitors. Perhaps, however, we are not blessed with a hypercritical perception, and have not studied as we ought the rules of art which have been brought to bear upon and are intended to supersede those of nature — though we have always supposed that a correct and cultivated taste was the result of observation, rather than abstract study. True, there might be seen, on all occasions, specimens good, bad, and in- 208 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. different — such as the advantages of culture and the exigen- cies of the season afforded — which latter, owing to drought, the committee acknowledge (in spite of the rules laid down for its government), was " most unfavorable to floral beauty," pro- ducing only "small and unhealthy flowers." Each exhibitor, following the scriptural example of the poor widow, who cast her mite into the sacred treasury, brought such floral offerings as the bounty of nature had vouchsafed as the reward of his industry, and the aggregate result was, certainly, a pleasing, if not satisfactory, display of the triumphs of floriculture. But we never dreamed that the fact of some inferior and indifferent specimens being exhibited was an evidence of want of ability to discriminate on the part of exhibitors, or of that " general isnorance " which has so " ti'oubled " the Flower Committee in the discharge of their duties, and called forth a volume of light to dispel it. We certainly never met with any florist or exhibitor, of great or small repute, upon the premises, who experienced any trouble in distinguishing the good from the bad, or in giving, ivithout the book, satisfactory reasons for his judgment. If all specimens not conforming to the commit- tee's pattern had been ruled out last year, the exhibitions de jure would have been somewhat meagre, and much less inter- esting than the side-show ; and, if all had come up to your standard of perfection — oh, most wise and sagacious judges ! — by what rule of law or equity would you have been able to establish a preference and award the prizes ? Moreover, we doubt the propriety, not to say justice, of lay- ing down rules as a criterion of beauty, whether in natural or artificial objects ; which rules, though ostensibly deduced from nature or the most approved standard of taste, are necessarily, to a great extent, arbitrary and without au- thority other than prevailing fancy or mutable fashion. In those departments of natural science where external ai)pear- ances arc indicative of intrinsic qualities, as in the breeding of stock, rules which furnish a key for determining the excellence of specimens may be rational and useful. But in matters of taste simply, where the whole merit of the subject is at once obvious to the eye, they can scarcely be regarded as legitimate or admissible. Jf all who take pleasure in tlie contemplation MAT, 209 of beautiful objects could sec with the same optics, and were endowed witli the same perceptions and peculiar fancies, a beau ideal in every department of nature or art might be easily established. But it has been well and truly said, that beauty exists not only in the ol)ject admired, but also in the eye of the beholder. It is both a cause and effect — the cause of one of the most refined pleasures of taste, and the effect of certain mysterious and harmonious combinations, both in the object invested with it and the mind affected by it. The love of the beautiful is one of those capricious tastes which disdains to be hampered by arbitrary rules, which delights in diversi- ties, irregularities, and contrasts, as well as in symmetry of proportion, regular figures, and geometric outlines. As to the nice details of color, shade, and shape, which go to make up the tout ensemble^ we apprehend as few connoisseurs would agree in regard to the properties of a perfect plant or flower, as touching the features of a perfectly beautiful woman, or the characteristic traits of a perfect Christian. We presume the educated and gallant chairman of the Flower Commit- tee himself, if he wished to assemble the greatest possible amount of feminine loveliness at ^soiree dansante, would not be so unreasonable, in issuing his cards of invitation, as to restrict his fair guests to any fixed standard of stature, style of figure, feature, hair, eyes, or complexion. We trust he may learn to be equally tolerant towards floral beauties ; for, though there may be certain primary characteristics among them upon which all tastes are agreed, it is obvious that rules can properly extend no farther than to take cognizance of these ; and, a fortiori, so far as all tastes are agreed, there is, certainly, no use or necessity for rules. Models may be suc- cessfully studied by the sculptor, and landscapes extemporized by the painter, who absolutely control their artificial creations ; but nature is her own artist, and generally moulds and paints according to the dictates of her own bright fancy in the realm of flowers. As to the utility of rules in the cultivation of that except tional class of products known as florists' flowers, whose * normal conditions and characteristics are subject to endless modification, we may say that it 'is at least questionable. In VOL. XXVIII. — NO. V. 14 210 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. this department, which, like the style of crinoline, is the sport of modists and their freaks of fashion, novelty rather than real heauty is the grand desideratum aimed at and admired ; lience, the rules which apply to it are both arbitrary and changeable, and, in following them to the ridiculous extreme, iloral monstrosities have been produced, which, though sub- serving pecuniary and speculative purposes, indicate no true progress in the art of floriculture, and have added nothing to its stock of attractions. Even the compiler of the work in question, in giving his beau ideal of the petunia, one of the most plastic and rule-ridden plants of this much-abused class, is fain to confess, that, " such is the fancy of people in these days, that a new, ugly color would be thought more of than an old, handsome one." If any further testimony were want- ing to this point, we might cite the highest professional authorities, but must be content with quoting a brief and pertinent extract from Loudon, the eminent English horticul- turist : — " It may be observed, that the rules by which florists de- cide as to the merits of their respective flowers, do not depend on any particular beauty of color, and sometimes not even on form, but on certain arbitrary criteria which they have settled among themselves; as, for example, no auricula or polyanthus is admired that is what is called 'pin-eyed,' that is, if the style projects beyond the stamens; dud a perfect dahlia should not siiow any green in the centre. Tiius, as it re(][uircs to be a Horist to know the full, merit of florists' flowers, they are of comparatively little interest to amateurs." We trust our friends of the Horticultural Society will keep perfectly cool under this alllictivo dispensation of their Publi- cation Commltteo, and lot their plants grow in peace, whether according to iloyle or (Umtcr. It is to be regretted (Jiat the Society should allow any re- port to be puldisbod wilhout being first read before the Soci- ety, or referred to the Executive Committee for approval. We are glud to know sucli a mistake will not be likely to occur again. — Ed. ' . MAY. 211 CORDON TRAINING OF FRUIT TREES, ADAPTED TO THE OUCIIARD-HOUSE AND OPEN-AIR CULTURE. BY REV. T. COLLINGS BRE'HATJT. SPIRAL CORDONS. The training these is essentially the same as that of Diag- onal Cordons, because they also have an upper or vigorous side, and a lower or weak side. If planted in the borders of the orchard-house, and trained round wires, they have an ad- mirable appearance. Twelve inches of interval is also required between the ascending stems, and not less than two trees should be planted to train on the same wires. These Spiral Cordons bear remarkably well, and for pot culture are unri- valled. The sun and air have free access to the open centre ; the leaders are kept down, and the spurs on them, with due respect to the outrageous verticals, are easily managed. They should, in the case of pots, be pinched in more closely, as it is difficult then to allow a clear twelve inches of interval. The outgrowing shoots are, of course, not included in this difficulty. Wires are best to train round. When the leaders are fully covered, and your space well filled in, then lower the leaders, and twist tliem freely round the wires. If in pots, place them close to the glass, but not so as to shade others behind them. If for pear trees, in the open ground, very handsome speci- mens may be obtained, and really fruitful, only the centre must be kept well open. They are very easy to syringe in the orchard-house, as access is easy to the interior parts. I do not think that trees difficult to fruit would do, as some parts are rather in the shade. The free-growing varieties should be selected in preference. VERTICAL CORDONS. Select a straight tree, as before, well furnished with later- als ; remove one third of the top, and cut in the laterals to two buds. Should any weakness appear in the lower laterals, cut down to one half of the whole length, because the lowest stage must be the longest, and it must be encouraged. Plant in a pot, or in the open ground, or border, as before. In the 212 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. ensuing summer the two buds on each lateral will develop ; these must all be pinched as soon as sis leaves long, to three leaves, then to two leaves, and then to one leaf ; but in the lowest stages it is necessary to allow one leaf more at each pinching, until that part has a predominance over the rest ; in other words, until it has a pyramidal form. Therefore, the lowest spurs all round should be well encouraged, and if disposed to become fruitful, then left as long as possible — i. e. hardly pinched at all, and the whole tree kept to the pyrami- dal form altogether. If the lowest shoots grow freely so much the better; merely pinch them back, according to their vigor, and if laterals grow on these, pinch these to two buds each. The object in view is to obtain a fruitful pyramid in a vertical position, and the pinching is only to obtain this : but as the top grows very freely, it must also be kept under, and occasionally pinched back, according to the vigor of the tree. In this case the amateur will soon know how to proceed. If the Vertical Cordon, however, be destined as a reserve for banks in the Diagonal Cordons (and this must be kept in view), then pinch all the shoots pretty equally; but if the lower ones are inclined to become single shoots, then this must not be allowed to be. Endeavor to have these reserve trees regularly supplied with spurs, and two shoots on each : and if a tree obstinately refuse to come to this shape, it had better be rejected as time and patience wasted. The vertical pyramids must not exceed the diameter of the pot they are to fill (generally a tliirteen-inch pot), at their base. If you plant the Vertical Cordon against pillars in the orchard-house, it need not be pyramidal of course, and this is another use for the potted vertical cordons to supply. Against pillars, with their ends trained up to the rafters or sideways, my own trees are splendid, and they are an amusing variety, l)ccausc you may develop a second stem before and anotlier behind each pillar, and the fruit on the part near the glass will be very fine. These trees will require removal, probably imnually, as they grow, to check undue luxuriance. A few ties are all that is required, and they arc easy to syringe and take care of in every way. No strong-gi-owing variety MAY. 213 should be planted either in pots or against pillars in the bor- ders. Out of doors Vertical Cordons require very high walls ; they are then useful, but unless they have a large number of upright leaders they are apt to grow too freely ; and for peaches, there is really no necessity for adopting this form in out-door culture.* HORIZONTAL CORDONS. Under this head, for practical purposes in Cordon training, may be ranged all fan-shaped or " palmette" trees on walls ; all standard out of doors ; and bush trees in pots. Every one knows how to commence the training of these, — how twelve inches are to be left above the soil, and how fan-shaped trees are to be thence carried out. In the case of wall trees, light rods should always guide the young branches, and these should never be brought toward the horizontal line, till well established, otherwise, adieu to the symmetry of the tree, — the lowest stage being too short. But if these trees are trained horizontally, then let the branches be depressed year by year from an angle of 75 to 65 degrees, then 45, and lastly to about 30 degrees. Any approach to the perfect hor- izontal line is useless, except in the case of two small branches developed from the lowest stage to fill up the lower corners. The Cordon system is equally applicable here, — i. e. that part of it which relates to the management of the spurs and slioots. As we are now treating of peach trees, of course the upper shoots must be trained like those on the upper sides of the Diagonal leaders, and the lower shoots like those o^i the lower side of these leaders. The branches to be shortened by one- third yearly, and when older, by one-fourth, and finally by one-sixth of their length ; the main stem encouraged fairly to grow. An interval of twelve inches is sufiicient between each stage of branches, while, in old methods, eighteen or twenty were needed for the enormous shoots to bear their * The Vertical and Spiral modes of training trees are admirably adapted to pot culture, and amateurs who are growing fruit trees in this way will be well repaid for their labor, in the superior beauty of vertical or spiral trees, compared with the ordinary bush or no system plan. A little extra care is necessary in the commencement, but their after treatment requires little more attention than when grown without system. — Ed. 214 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. solitary peach. Of course the crop in fruit ought to be doubled, and would be but for fear of sacrificing the tree. But how long time it takes to reach the top of a ten or twelve-foot wall we all know well enough, and when there, the tree is beginning to decay. A system valueless for such splendid fruit. For pear trees, wliich last longer, it will do well enough, but the Diagonal Cordon is far superior, even for peaches under the glass of a forcing peach-house. If then it be desired to reduce peach trees, trained on some queer old method, to tlie newer plans, the shoots must be pinched in, and cut off by degrees till the spur with two shoots thereon is reached. Then some strong shoots sliould be selected to fill up the blanks between the branches, and laid in to the wall, being very slightly shortened in the winter. Their lat- erals should be pinched in to two buds, and with care, the tree will become reorganized in two seasons, withovt injuring the crop ; because that shoot which is to bear the fruit can be left to bear it, being only pinched oflf at two leaves beyond the fruit, and cut back behind the fruit immediately after it is gathered. The other non-bearing shoots may be closely pinched in and cut back, as required. There is not very much difficulty in doing this. After a severe blight this July, I cut off the miserable ends, and refreshed the trees, and brought them well into shape. As to the treatment of peaches and nectarines in pots, it is easy enough. Treat the spurs and shoots like the Diagonal, only rather more pinched closely in, as there is less room. On the bush ttee (like a currant bush), all the branches, say eight or nine, are full of these spurs, and the treatment of them is easy. At the lowest parts, the short, natural fruit-slioots gen- erally obviate any trouble in this way, which is convenient, because tlicrc the branches are, necessarily, near to each other. Of course the uj)per spurs of busli trees require closer pinch- ing-iii tlian tlic spurs on the lower sides, and two slioots on each s[)nr arc required. COIIDON TRAINING IN APRICOT TREES. The apricot is a magnificent fruit. It probnl)ly came from America. Tbciico it passed int ) Greece and Italy, and so on MAY. 215 to our iiiigeiiial climate, and is pretty generally cultivated, capricious as it is in bearing. The apricot does not force very well ; it dislikes a confined atmosphere, and succeeds best in breezy situations, vp^itli abundance of sun. Indoors it requires great attention in the blooming season, and careful vk^atering at all times, or it is liable, either from this cause or from defi- cient ventilation, to drop its fruit after setting. De Jonghe considers this to arise from not being grown on its own stock, and this may be the case. The more sun and air apricots have the darker will the fruit be, and the better the flavor. Of all in cultivation, I find the ,Kaisha the best. Some new varieties, as yet unknown, from Lombardy, promise extremely well. 7. FORMATION OF FRUIT-SPCRS ON THE APRICOT. FIRST WINTER'S PRUNING. Diagonal Corcion training is well adapted to produce fine fruit on the apricot. The triple system, with the same inter- vals between the leaders, is the best suited for this tree. If grown out of doors on espaliers, thick straw palliasses behind the espaliers are necessary until the fruit be half grown, and then removed to give free circulation. But at best, in Eng- land, the tree bears only at long intervals. The spring frosts ruin the tender blossoms. It is far best cultivated under glass, except a few hardy varieties — the names of which are given in the list of trees at the end, — which are useful for preserves, but not very enticing in flavor. 216 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. The slioots on the leaders should be pinched to four inches as soon as they are six inches in length, and the successive growths on them pinched to one inch more, as soon as they become two inches long. In winter pruning cut back in order to develop the buds at the base of each shoot, and as these are numerous, and more easily developed than in the case of the peach, there is no difficulty whatever in replacing a shoot as soon as worn out, or unsightly from pruning. The appear- ance of an apricot shoot at the first winter pruning is like that at FIG. 7. In this figure the shoot is shortened in by one- third ; the fruit-buds are seen about half-way up the sides, and the latent buds appear at the bases. 8. FORMATION OF FUUIT-SPUKS ON THE APKICOT. SKCOND WINTERS PRUNING. The second growths in fig. 8, which wiH eventually grow out from these buds, having the appearance as seen in^this last figure, must be left to bear if on the middle of tlic spur, but the one or two near the base will be full of leaf buds, and must be shortened to two buds to form a succession of shoots. Aljout one-third of the whole slioot is removed at this winter j)runing ; and tl\e whole lengtli is easily kept with- in the six inch(;s aUowcd, because these short laterals will form nmch ol" tlu- l»oaring wood. Remember, however, to shorten some of tlicse, in order to have fruit as near the base as possible. MAY. 217 111 FIG. 8, the next winter pruning would be just ovei: the two lowest laterals at A, as the upper slioot would then have become much elongated, and be fruitful. This has in its turn to be shortened, while the lower would have pushed out in one or two places, and so on. One long shoot and one short one, as in the peach, is also an excellent plan, but is not shown here to avoid confusion. Do not prune the apricot all at once, as it is a tree liable to gum, and take care the ties are not growing into the bark for the same reason, nor induce pleth- oric growth by over-feeding the tree. Horizontal trees are easily grown in this way. Develop two very long branches, stretching at an angle of forty-five degrees on either side. When fully grown, lower them to the hori- zontal position, and the shoots already allowed to extend from the upper sides only, being now vertical, will, in one season more, ascend to a great height ; they will make, at the same time, laterals, wdiich must be pinched in rather closely at first. Pyramidal apricots in pots look very pretty. They are easily grown by continual close summer pinching-in to five or six leaves. The leader, if kept under by several shorten- ings in, will produce fresh shoots along it. These pyramidal apricots are much recommended by the great authority of Mr. Rivers, and they certainly can be placed very near to each other, say about two feet. If planted in borders they require annual lifting and re-planting, and, of course, not so much water. Apricot trees, trained spirally as half standards^ are very pretty and prolific. In some cases this is necessary, in order to get the fruit near the glass. POMOLOGICAL GOSSIP. PoMOLOGiCAL WiSDOM. — In a recent number we noticed a grape recently brought to notice, called Mead's Seedling, and stated that we had little doubt it would prove to be the Diana under a new name. Our cotemporary of the Gardeners' Monthly thinks we are "waggishly" inclined in pomological 218 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. matters, " though pomology is too much a matter of fact sub- ject to bear joking about," and that " it would be better for our readers to treat it more seriously." Now we always thought we were too serious in regard to all pomological facts, often showing up errors when it would be better to let them pass, giving the source of their origin. We certainly have ' been inclined to treat some of the more ridiculous of these in a light way. As regards the Mead's Seedling grape, our cotemporary says the Lancaster (Pa.) grape growers, with specimens be- fore them, pronounced it " similar but superior to the Cataw- ba." Just exactly the words we once used in regard to the Diana. But what has this to do with it. We have quite as high a regard for the opinions of the Lancaster grape growers as our cotemporary has, but this will not make them infalli- ble. Some years ago, Mr. E,. Thompson pronounced the Jos- ling's St. Albans a new and superior grape, and on the strength of this opinion the introducer of it sold 1000 vines for 1000 guineas. It unfortunately happened that the 1000 guineas were a total loss — to the buyers — for they had an abundance of Muscat Blanc Hatif, or Chasselas Musqu^, with- out buying them over again at one guinea a plant. It is not absolutely necessary to see a fruit to detect its true name ; a leaf or a shoot is often better than the fruit for this object. We might adduce many similar errors, unintentional un- doubtedly, but nevertheless errors still. Lycurgus Pear. — This is the name of a seedling raised by the late Judge Hoadley of Cleveland, Ohio. Judge Iloadley, his son, of Cincinnati, sends us the following notice of this pear, which appears to be one of some merit : — "It is a seedling, probably, of the Seckel ; russet color, of the Seckel size and quality, and ripens in November. The parent, or original tree, stands in my mother's garden at Cleve- land, where it bears annually as full as it Avill hold. Every one who has tasted it, from Dr. Kirtland down to myself, con- siders it a valuable addition to American pears. If you should like grafts I shall be pleased to sui)j)ly you. — Yours truly, Geo. Hoadley, Cincinnati, 0." We return our thanks to Judge Iloadley for a few scions. MAY. 219 Duchess d'ITiver Pear. — A new pear under this nnmc is describod and figured in the Revue Horlicole. M, Carriere, the writer, thus notices it : — It is a tree of handsome growth ; grows vigorously either on pear or quince ; is easily trained to any form ; comes early into bearing after being worked ; has very fine good sound fruit, well attached to resist winds, and does not prematurely ripen by hot suns ; it will keep in the fruit-room better than any other winter pear ; it ripens successively from December to April, without any becoming damaged ; in a word it is such a fruit for winter as the Duch- ess is for autumn. It was raised by M. Barthere, cure, of Toulouse. THE TOMATO DE LAYE. BY THE EDrrOR. This new and very remarkable variety of the tomato de- mands more than the passing notice we gave of it in our last volume. It had not then been fully tested ; but it subse- quently proved to be such a valuable acquisition that we be- lieve we shall be doing our readers a real service in com- mending it to their especial notice, and urging its culture wherever the tomato is a favorite ; indeed for mere ornament it is no mean addition to the flower border, where its dense bushy growth, thick dark-green leaves, and clusters of large fruit, render it conspicuous and attractive. It would be interesting to know the true origin of this va- riety ; whether it was a mere accidental sport from the seed, or the result of some unknown fertilization, though probably the former ; all we know is that it was found in a bed of seed- lings, by M. Grenier, gardener to M. de Fleurieux, at the Chateau de La;ye, France, from whence its name. It differs essentially in habit, foliage, and growth, though the fruit is similar to some of the accidental seedlings now in cultivation, its nearest approach in size and appearance being to the Per- fected tomato, so called, though it is milder and better fla- vored than that variety ; it is in fact one of the best, if not the best of all the tomatoes in its edible qualities. 220 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. The Tomato de Laye, or Erect tomato, as it is called, in ac- cordance with its growth, and to obviate the pronunciation of its French name, is very vigorous in its habit, with a straight stem, attaining the height of two to two and a half feet ; remarkably stout, short jointed, with thick leaves, much crumpled, on very short petioles, and very dark green. It branches but little, the lateral shoots rarely extending more than six inches. The fruit, which is very large, regularly formed, and deep red, is borne upon the short branches in such compact clusters as to nearly hide tlie main stem ; as many as 15 ripe fruits having been counted upon one of our plants last season, giving them a really ornamental appearance. In cultivation it only needs a straight stout stake, two feet high, to which the main stem should be tied, like a dahlia, and the plants may be placed at two feet distance, without crowding, so dense is their growth. The fruit ripens as early as the common smooth red, and some days before the Per- fected tomato, which, as we have stated, it more nearly re- sembles in form and size than any other kind. For pot culture it promises great advantages, growing erect and occiipying but little room, forming, with a little training, a regular pyramid of leaves and fruit. Upon the approach of frost, if the plants are removed to the green- house, the fruit will continue to ripen, and a few plants will afford a liberal supply the winter through. It may in truth be called the perpetual as well as the erect tomato. A cultivator, who has an abundance of room in his greenhouse, informs us that his plants have continued to grow and ripen their fruit from October to the present time. Early in Sep- tember the plants should be taken up carefully and potted in 8 or 10-inch pots, shading them slightly for a few days till freshly rooted, when they should have the full sun and air. Before frost, remove them to the greenhouse, where with due attention they will continue to grow and ripen their fruit. Tbe Erect tomato is a great acquisition, and lovers of tliis healthy and excellent fruit will cheerfully award M. Grenicr all the ])raise he so well deserves for l»is careful attenlion in preserving such a remarkable variety. MAY. 221 IN-DOOR GARDENING. FROM THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. We continue our extracts from the articles on window gar- dening, and particularly commend the following on the treat- ment of heaths and camellias, to amateurs who have hereto- fore found it difficult to manage these plants in-doors, particu- larly the camellia, which is now rarely seen in rooms, on account of the uncertainty of its blooming. But the advice of the writer, if strictly followed, will ob- viate all the difficulties in the way of their successful man- agement. Heat — dry heat, is fatal to the camellia; and it is so difficult to convince amateurs that they must be kept cool, almost at the freezing temperature, that they will roast the plants in a warm sunny window, till the buds begin to drop, when they all denounce it as unsuited to in-door culture. If a natural mode of treatment is adopted, even without all the care of double pots — which can certainly do no harm — the camellia will flower nearly as well in rooms as in the greenhouse. To do this, however, the plants, on removing them to the house in September or October, should be placed in a COOL room, where the temperature does not exceed 50^, and if as low as 35° it will do no injury. Here they should remain till the buds begin to swell, and show some signs of flowering, sprinkling the foliage occasionally with water, not too cold. Then remove them to a warmer place, not a hot sunny window, where the temperature does not exceed 60° or 65°, and if as low as 45° at night it will not hurt them. Syringe the foliage often. Keep the roots evenly moist; and the lover of this beautiful flower will reap the reward of his care in an abundance of large, well developed, and superb blossoms. The camellia is almost a hardy plant; keeping this in mind, remembering that a hot, dry air is always detrimental, and that their large foliage requires a constant supply of water, success in camellia culture is far more certain than with many other plants : — 222 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Heaths and Camellias. — All window gardeners are ambi- tious of " growing white camellias." I do not think I ever heard of a flower-stand started, at least at this time of the year, without a little hint at this especial longing, or without a sigh at the failure of some previous attempt. In proportion to our admiration of any special plant we generally will make much of it ; and warm sunny corners in a sitting-room, and continual anxious waterings, are not atten- tions under common circumstances acceptable to these plants. People are misled by forgetting to consider that a forced plant is not in the same state as one that flowers naturally ; and thus they often adopt the instructions given for the much forced plants for those which they, themselves, have slowly coming on, which merely require a cool and airy place, and to be preserved from getting really dry at any time. Camellias are in some ways the very pleasantest and in others the most tiresome of all plants to grow. It is so mort- ifying to see the buds drop off. This is a thing, however, which has not the least right to happen, and it would not do so more frequently witli camellias than with other plants, if we only recollected as I say, that the coolest, not the warmest room, is the safest for them ; that draughts and sudden changes of temperature are the worst things for them, and that the most frequent cause of the falling buds is want of equilil)rium between the soil and air, the soil saturated, and the air dry — all perhaps hot and parched on a frosty day, or the air and foliage carefully made damp, while the soil at the roots is dried into a cake. When quite unforced the safest and easiest way to have the camellias is then, I think, to place the pots in a box, or in second and larger pots, filling the space between with sand or moss, constantly kept quite moist, the room being either without a fire, or the stand ou which the plants are being damped. Most likely, witli this treatment, they will blossom beautifully, perhaps even better than in a regular conservatory. These plants, however, when forced, certainly like some warmth as well as a moister atmos- phere. No plants do better in plant cases, where I have known tlieir flowers last more than three weeks unfadcd. But then there was the advantage of constantly moist sand MAY. • 223 for the pot to rest on, and just such a degress of moistness also in the air as without being wet to keep tlie leaves all fresh. It must be remembered, indeed, in attempting window gar- dening, that dry air absorbs the juices out of every scrap of stem, and flower, and leaf, and that we must prevent the call, or supply wherewithal to meet it; and that sun or wind beat- ing upon a porous flower pot, not only cools the soil, precisely as we cool water in porous bottles for summer use, but draws out and sucks up also every drop of moisture, leaving the roots half baked. Camellias are useful flowers in teaching us this lesson very unmistakably ! and I hope I have suc- ceeded in making my meaning clear — that though forced ca- mellias, such as are now in flower, require warmth and slight continual moisture, the plants we have in windows preparing slowly to blossom about Easter must be merely prevented drying, preserved from soakings of water, and kept in a cool place, if possible in a room where there is no fire. The old Double White is still one of the best plants to grow — and the exquisitely beautiful Firnbriafa alba is ako tolerably freely flowering, and is always lovely with its delicate notched petals. If the leaves need sponging it must be done with warm water, and every drop of water given to the roots must be also warmed. I have never known anything make so great a difference to the health of plants, and when this is attended to, green flies — those torments of some gardeners — seem to become unknown. Heaths may be treated very much like camellias at the present season, standing always in a double pot, and kept in the very lightest place that can be provided for them. If they should stand out on a plant-stand a light net should be thrown over them while the room is dusted, as with their tiny foliage it is difficult to dislodge dust. On a very dry frosty day it is often well to sprinkle the plants a little, if not actually in blossom; and here I beg to mention a regular window-garden contrivance ; as the very best thing for this is a goose's wing, like the housemaids use, which can be dipped (just the tips of the feathers) in water, and then fanned a little, so as to sprinkle the heaths. 224 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. Heaths require generally a little water daily, but none should ever stand for a moment in the saucer. Faded flowers should be cut off with sharjD-pointed scissors. Erica hiemalis and Epacris impressa are two pretty kinds, and both are now in flower. I do not know if all in-door gardeners are apt or not to find themselves now and then in the predicament in which I was once, that of having been so busy taking care of the spring flowers in blossom as to have quite forgotten to provide for summer and autumn gaiety. There are several things which we ought to be doing now, and amongst the most essential, I think, is the potting the summer bulbs. Liliums, for example, longifolium and longiflorum ought now to be procured. Gladioli again make splendid masses of color when grown in large groups in pots, and Calla ethiopica and Yallota purpurea ought also to be obtained. Begonia Evansiana, again, should be started now, and achimenes and gloxinias should be placed in a warm plant case, or in some kind of heat-providing substitute ; while the climbing tropae- olums for window baskets want much of the same treatment. As to the Japan lilies particularly I do most strongly advise all whom it may concern no longer to delay getting in these plants. My favorite mode is to have about five roots in one large pot, giving thorough drainage ; first an oyster shell, or better, a zinc cap (to exclude worms), then a layer two inclies deep of pounded charcoal, a handful of moss, tlie pot filled up with good soil — leaf-mould and sand — the bull)s planted almost on the top, and a good thick layer of cocoa-nut refuse covering them well over and packed in amongst tliem. The little surface roots perfectly fill the fibry stuff wliich covers up the bulbs; and my plants thus treated have been very beautiful. They may stand anywhere clear of frost till they begin to come up, then a window is suitable till the end of May, keeping them nice and moist, and after the flower-stems rise, a pan of water to stand in or a box of damp sand is the proper treatment. Vallota purpurea 1 have not yet myself grown in a window. It requires, however, treatment very similar to that of the MAY. 225 arum lilies, whose great points are perfect rest, i. e. keeping dry for some time after blossoming; unbroken leaves when they begin to grow, and a constant supply of water not only given but suffered to remain standing in the saucer. The prettiest arums that I ever saw were standing immersed in a small tank of water ; and window gardeners, I think, might adopt this practice for aquanas, only taking care to cover the soil in the pot either with sand or pebbles. The plant should not be in very deep water, as the flower stalk and the leaves should rise above the surface. The begonias and the achimenes require heat to start them. The difficulty for these with window gardeners, who have not means at command for giving proper heat, is generally, I think, in obtaining moisture. A box of damp sand witli pots sunk in it, and bell-glasses placed over them, answers, how- ever, well if placed upon a chimney-piece, or over some hot air or water-pipe. There are plenty of such contrivances for any one who will think of them ; indeed I once heard of some arrangement for forcing bulbs and seeds over a baker's oven, and when I hear of very beautiful hothouse plants appearing in cottage windows, I always guess that some such clever plan is at work inside. The gladioli, however, like the lovely lilies, require no heat at all, and they are so gay with their great spikes of blossom, that any one with their aid may have a bright window-garden. These are also first-rate flowers for towns. The new varieties of the last two years in a list I have just seen, published by Messrs. Hooper, include a great number of beautiful and delicate shades of rose and white, and of white and purple — Empress, Galathee, Vesta, and Madame de Vatry are very pretty. Bertha Rabourdin is a well-known flower, with a crimson blotch on its clean white petals, and there is a new one called Marie, which is said in the aforesaid list to excel the last-named in beauty, but this I have not seen. Window gardeners ought, however, to be very careful in or- dering these flowers to avoid having four or five "very distinct varieties," very much alike ! The multiplication of names is endless, and it has before now happened to me to have new flowers sent in, of a style so much resembling many I pos- VOL. XXVIII. — NO. V. 15 226 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. sessed as to be quite vexatious. The best way is in such things to put down always the names of the plants one has, and to request the seedsman to avoid immediate repetitions. Many, besides, of the best nuserymen abstain very carefully from filling up page after page with things too much alike, and the colors are given with so much exactness that even those who have never seen the flowers at all cannot go very wrong in making their own selection from the colors described. One caution I must give, however, it took me so long to learn it — in ordering plants it is very dangerous to tliink that in all cases " white tinged or blotched with rose, and rose streaked or blotched with white," will produce a brilliant variety. The rose in one may be brighter, or the white in another rosier, and thus we may find that our variations require to be looked at closely ; as seen even across a room they produce a general rose effect ! Purple and white, I think, are always very beautiful ; these contrast well with the white and rose. The pale straw color, too, is pretty and peculiar, and the brilliant scarlet most useful for lighting up. Gandavensis, scarlet and yellow ; floribundus, white and pink or purple ; and ramosus, rose color, are very cheap, showy, and distinct- ive kinds, even for cottage windows. When the gladioli are chosen, they may be potted much in the same way as the Japan lilies — three to five in a 5 or 6-inch pot. 1 am always inclined to small pots myself, knowing their great convenience where small spaces must be filled up brilliantly, and after all, the bulb roots generally go down- wards ; thus we can often give a little help in need, by allow- ing the pots to stand upon a bed of cocoa-nut stuff or soil. After potting, the plants should be placed in a cold frame or room — covered in the former case with something like coal ashes, about four inches deep. They require at first scarcely any water, but after a time, as the leaves come up, more may be desirable. It is quite essential not to let the pots dry later in the season, but it is now so easy to have either balconies Ml- windows fitted with tile boxes, that tliis very simple pre- i;aution ought always to be taken. The range of materials is at least wide enough, and even where cx])ensc is no small consideration, the saving of pkints effected by this means renders it most advisable. MAY. 227 All bulbs feel extremely any dryness after tlieir growth has once set in in earnest. Even now, perhaps, some people may be distressed at tulips and crocuses going out of bloom too fast. If they examine the soil it is not unlikely that they may find it dry, for the quantity of water absorbed and trans- pired by bulbs is something quite astonishing, and then a good watering will often give the flowers as it were a new lease of life. I cannot help here remarking one curious instance of the rapid transpiration mentioned — arums in summer having con- stantly a drop of clear water at the point of every leaf. These observations are not merely interesting to window gardeners, but also of much importance, for it is by such things, as for instance by the dew cast on glass by leaves, that we learn to guard against what may be injurious, and still more to trust to the natural provision made for balancing what we might deem excess, while it is in fact useful to the plant. Thus, when we fear for arums the too much water given, forgetting their natural alternations between dry ground and swamp, we may be reassured by seeing this pro- vision. ioeral S^^tif^^^- Materials best suited to the Growth of Orchids. — After so many years' experience I find that it would be difficult to say in what or- chids will not grow, for I have seen many of them living and even thriving under circumstances and in soils which would be fatal to almost any other tribe of plants ; they can seldom, however, be had in perfection without proper means and appliances. Obviously the first thing is to provide such materials as the roots will luxuriate in, and I think that to a true lover of orchids even the successful flowering of the plants themselves hardly yields more gratification than watching the progress of a healthy root action, es- pecially when it is considered that it tends to induce successful results. It is, of course, generally understood that orchids are grown chiefly in peat and sphagnum, with the exception of a few terrestrial species which require stronger soil ; but under the name of peat I have seen such vile ma- terial used that the destruction of valuable specimens could only be a mat- ter of time. Sometimes they are treated to a soil more suitable for Ameri- can plants than orchids, becoming, as it does, from constant watering, g. 228 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE, close, soddened mass, causing certain destruction of the roots — or to stuff from a bog, when dry only fit for a hearth, but when exposed to the action of air and water rapidly approaching a state of decomposition. Sometimes rotten wood is freely used, but I consider it worse than useless ; for char- coal, which is much more wholesome, answers every purpose. Hypnum moss, mixed to any extent with peat, is not conducive to the welfare of plants in pots, as I have found it to decay very rapidly when it changes to a dark mould. Sphagnum has not this disadvantage. I however managed a collection for several years tolerably successfully, with nothing but Hypnum for a moss, but the peat was most excellent, and the Hypnum was only used for lining baskets, and for covering the roots of plants on blocks. I used it in flakes with the greenest side outwards, finishing by clipping off the loose ends. I should have continued its use, but the peat commons became enclosed, and I found Sphagnum to be a great assistance. The kind of peat most suitable is that of a light, fibrous, and porous character, which can be generally found on heathy ground, where the com- mon ling (Calhuna vulgaris) and vacciniums abound, more especially where the heath and turf are not often cut and pared. The material from such situations consists of decayed leaves and roots of the plants just mentioned, intimately mixed Avith a dead undergrowth of moss and roots of grasses. Should soil of that kind not be obtainable, the next best substitute is the top spit of a heathy common, with the earthy portion well shaken out, re- taining only the more fibrous part ; in any case the brown is preferable to the black. Some editorial remarks appeared in your paper for May, 1852, which made a strong impression on my mind; and I must make that my excuse for referring to them here. The occasion was that of a sale of im- ported plants by Stevens, and persons even who were not buyers were rec- ommended to go and see what they grew in, and on, in their wild state, — " What masses of entangled roots, dead sticks and leaves, afford them sus- tenance ; what swarms of ferns and other plants crawl among them ; what layers upon layers of the most humid but not wet, most rich but not stimu- lating, most cool bat not cold, most rottable but not rotten, matters they de- light in ; and how, as they themselves decay, they furnish pabulum, on which they also feed and flourish by devouring their own substance. All these things the orchid-grower may see and largely profit by, has he but skill to interpret the universal language in which nature speaks to tiiose who can decipher the living characters in which her operations are emblaz- oned in woods and fields and on rocks and mountain tops." Keeping these principles in view, the supply of peat in this neighborhood having failed, I have been using something very nearly approaching the material just described. At firat sight it looks like so much tobacco, but upon close inspection and handling it is found to consist of minute portions of oak and other leaves, intimately bound together by masses of fibres from Polypodiiiiii vulgare and other plants. I find thia material beneath fir and oak trees, accompanied by an undergrowth of laurels, vaccinimns, heaths, &c., immediately on the hurface of the red siindstone; in some cases I peel it off in flakes from the sandy rock itself. With proper modifications, such MAY. 229 as practice points out to be necessary, most orchids are quite at home in this material. Sphagnum is almost indispensable, and may be used as it is found or chopped fine. I much prefer the latter, either for mixing with peat or for neatly topping up the surface after potting ; the greenest if kept damp, will commence growing and be much more pleasing to the eye than bare peat. For potting nothing else is required except charcoal and small crocks or potsherds, a mixture of both being preferable. I use a large quantity of the former for drainage ; it is light, and the roots frequently cling to it with avidity. As regards baskets, I first line them with flakes of moss, and then pro- ceed, as in potting, with a mixture of peat, charcoal, and potsherds broken small, finishing off" with chopped sphagnum. For blocks any hard wood will do, such as whitethorn or acacia, but where they can be obtained there is nothing like pieces of the branches of the cork tree cut into different sizes. Having them here I always use them. {Gard. Chron.) Mignonette from Cuttings. — Having to grow mignonette for winter bouquets, a thought struck me to try cuttings, accordingly I went to work, got a quantity of cuttings, planted them in a 48-sized pot, and placed them in bottom heat. This was in September, and in a very short time all of them struck root. I then potted them singly in the same sized pots, and I flowered them in them. So satisfactory was this trial, that I determined to strike another lot, and this time, however, I planted three cuttings in each pot of the size just named, so as not to disturb them by repotting, and now I have plenty of mignonette to cut from. — (Gard. Chron.) Mushroom Culture — My Bed and how I made it.— About the 20th of June last, I gave orders to my groom to save a one-horse load (say twen- ty bushels) of droppings from the stable, and to take out all the long pieces of straw, leaving the short pieces mixed with the droppings. This load was placed in an open shed in case of very heavy storms coming on to sat- urate it. I then bought from the gatherers twenty bushels of droppings from the road. This, being mixed with sand, checks the too rapid fermen- tation of the stable-droppings. This I mixed with the above, and formed it into a heap like a haycock. Fermentation, as the doctors say, "super- vened," and on the 28th of June I reckoned my materials ready to make my bed. I fixed upon my cellar as the place to make it in. This being dry, light, and, for a cellar, moderately airy, temperature all the year round from 50° to 57°, I had a bottomless box prepared, made with inch boards, 7 feet long, 4 feet wide, and 20 inches deep. Into this I had my forty bushels of horse- droppings placed, hammering them down with a rather heavy mallet as they were emptied into and spread about it. The surface was then levelled, a thermometer placed just under the surface, and the bed left. On the 6th of July I found the thermometer down to 70°, (it should not be lower than 70°, nor higher than 75°,) I then took half a bushel of good spawn — mine 230 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. was the Miltrack — and planted it in pieces from about 2 inches to 3 inches in diameter, and 1 inch thick, poking it in just under the surface witli my fingers. I then took some light mould, not dusty, but rather dry — it was refuse pot mould sifted, and spread it over the bed 3 inches deep, hammer- ing down with a heavy spade, so as to make the surface quite smooth, hard, and level, and the depth of mould thus pressed down was about 2 inches over the spawn. About the end of July the mushrooms began to appear, and ever since the middle of August this small bed, 28 square feet, has given enough not only for the wants of my house, but enough for my neigh- bors. The bed is at this moment crowded with mushrooms of all sizes, the small ones are so thick that they look as if white mustard seed had been strewed over the bed. Any one with a cellar not too damp, or a shed not too airy, may grow mushrooms in boxes of the depth given as above. A box six feet long and three feet wide would give a great abundance, and, I believe, that no uncertainty in their culture exists, if people will do as I have done. It will be seen that no covering is used, and what a nuisance it used to be to have to remove the covering of hay before you could gather a few mushrooms. I have watered my bed three times since it was made, for 1 found the surface getting quite dusty in August. I gave it each time about three gallons of water, warm, (temperature 90°), sprinkling the surface with a fine rose. I can tell your readers that a mushroom-bed placed as mine is, in a light, dry place, is most interesting, and the flavor of mushrooms thus grown without covering is most delicious. I have never eaten any equal to them. REQUISITES FOR GROWING MUSHROOMS. 1. A bottomless box 20 inches deep and from 3 feet to 4 feet wide, and from 5 to 7 feet long. If your wants are great have more boxes. 2. A dry cellar with a minimum temperature of 50°. This will do for a crop all the year round. The temperature of my cellar is now 51°, and the mushrooms are growing freely. 3. In default of a cellar, a close shed, with thick walls either of brick or. Btone, in which the maximum temperature in summer is not more than 60°. A place of this kind will do for mushroom culture in spring, summer, and autumn, but not for the depth of winter. — [Cottage Card.) 6ossip of tjjc Hlontjj. The Okciiard-House Redivivus. — In the article, "Orchard-IlGUscs," in the October number of the Magazine, these structures come in for a lib- eral share of doprcciutive criticism, on tlie assumption tliat Mr. (i. G. Hub- bard lost his entire crop of peaches and ai)ricots by tlic severity of tiie past winter. Now before tlio cause is assumed it would be well to ascertain tlie fact; for this undue assumption of premises, as the logicians would call it, MAY. 231 or, in common parlance, this grasping at straws, gives strong presumptive evidence of a weak and untenable position, is generally productive of erro- neous impressions, seldom fails to lead to false conclusions, and the disput- ant obliged to resort to such flimsy pretexts to sustain an argument will be, we opine, scarcely able to make out his case. To prognosticate the failure of orchard-houses on such grounds — to denounce them as "bubbles" and " toys " — and to demolish them Bobadil-fashion with a stroke of the pen, may be very good amusement for those afflicted with a cacoHhes scribendi, or those in love with some pet theory of their own, but without correct reason- ing and tangible evidence of their inadaptibility to the purposes for which they are employed, these long-winded predictions and groundless assertions will never stay the advancement of this species' of cultivation, nor add one laurel to the horticultural reputation of its opponents. But as it is not our intention to enter the lists and break lances with those writers who seem determined to write down orchard-houses per fas et nefas, we will simply state the cause of the falling off in our peach crop, and leave our readers to draw their own conclusions. When our first crop of fruit was gathered the trees were but fifteen months from France, and the crop larger by two-thirds than the trees ought at any time to have been permitted to bear. The veriest tyro in horticulture knows that this process generally exhausts trees to such an extent as to ren- der them unfit for bearing the following year, and our trees — aside from this natural law — this repose of wearied nature — not being sufficiently es- tablished, of course were not an exception to the rule, and the consequence was a sparse development of blossom buds this year, from which, however, a fair crop of peaches of higher and finer flavor and larger size was ob- tained than those of last year, specimens of which were exhibited four dif- ferent times at the shows of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. If this fact does not prove the fallacy of the assertion that, "The same cold which destroyed the peach buds in the open air, killed them in the orchard- house," it proves nothing. Moreover, to supply what is suppressed in the above quotation, the same cold which destroyed the peach buds in tlie open air killed the branches and in many instances the trees also, Avhile it did not affect a single twig in the orchard-house. What is true, therefore, of a small crop must be equally true of a large one, cceteris paribus, and where the former passed unscathed through the ordeal of a rigorous winter we can see no probable reason why the^latter should not share the same immunity. The injury to the apricots is grossly exaggerated for the purpose of bol- stering up this unwarrantable^ onslaught. The fact is, that out of twenty- six plants, six only were "so much injured as to require heading in," and these were of the most tender kinds, besides being in a very feeble condi- tion. It is true, we had no fruit on them this year, in consequence of over- cropping the previous season; but our trees were saved, all of which would have been destroyed had they been in the open air. Of plums there was an abundant crop because they did not bear much last year. Of figs a heavy crop, and a splendid crop of grapes of the foreign varieties. Do these results show that our trees were " chilled by frost and excited by heat, 232 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. either of. which alone would be injurious to the crop, and in combination destructive of the trees," which the Editor says "has proved to be the case"? If our orchard-house is to be the criterion by which these structures are to stand or fall, we will insist on its being fairly represented, we will have it judged by facts, not by imaginary or speculative results, and we emphat- ically protest against having it made the raw head and bloody bones that the Editor labors to make it, without having even once visited it through the season, and without a shadow of proof to support him. — James Walsh, late gardener to G. G. Hubbard, Esq., Dec. 1861. Socitties. WORCESTER HORTICULTURAL. This flourishing association, located in the centre of a rich agricultural region, contains among its members many gentlemen of large pomological experience, and by a recent vote of the society it was decided to hold con- ventions on fruit, in the hope of eliciting that information which would be so valuable to the public. These reports have been sent to us, and though too long for our pages entire, we present such portions of them as we think will be especially interesting : — The first meeting was held March 27th, Vice President Jaques in the chair. The committee appointed to report a list of the six best cherries for local culture submitted the following: — May Duke, Black Tartarian, Knight's Early Black, Black Eagle, Downer's Late Red, and American Amber. Gov. Lincoln moved, and it was carried, that the society adopt the report of the committee in these words : — '' The society recommend the above, as a list of six varieties valuable for cultivation." Pears. — Lists of what, in their estimation, are the " best eight pears for market cultivation," were then submitted by Judge Green, S. A. Colton, John C. Ripley, O. B. Hadwen, James F. Allen, W. F. Wheeler of Grafton, and the chairman. The chair regarded the Buffum as the most profitable pear in tliis county. There is one belonging to Mr. Edward Ea^c, wliich has produced fruit to the average value of $23 per annum for the last ten years. Would like to learn the general opinion of the Glout Morceiui. lias them upon land that would bear seventy or eighty bushels corn to the acre, but cannot get a crop. Ilis land is however underlaid with a heavy clay. Mr. S. V. Stone lias a Glout Morceau which bore very heavily, both last year and the one previous. The chair thought highly of the pear itself, and would like to know the nature of the soil upon which it was grown by Mr. S. Mr. S. II. Colton moved that the whole subject bo referred to a committte of three, with instructions to report a list of the eight best market pears to the next meeting. MAY. 233 Moved by O. B. Iladwen, that lists of the "best twelve varieties of pears for domestic use " be presented to the next meeting. Adopted. Mr. James F. Allen thought there was no better bearer, in standard, than the Vicar of Winkfield. Mr. Colton esteemed it good for nothing when grown and ripened. Gov. Lincoln had experienced as good success with the St. Ghislain as with any. The soil is a tenacious clay, covered by a rich loam. His Vicar of Winkfields have borne well, but not so lately. Dea. Butnam is of opinion that pears improve with the age of the tree. Upon this, Dr. Workman remarked that he had formerly been discouraged with the Louise Bonne de Jersey. It has improved exceedingly of late years. Mr. Stone spoke of the Iron as one of the best market pears. It is a good bearer and excellent for preserves. He has kept them until the 1st of May. Mr. Colton considered the Iron better than the Catillac. With this the chair agreed, stating that he had forgotten the Iron. Mr. Wheeler of Grafton hoped that something might be done to supply information to beginners and inquirers like himself — about the soils, situa- tion, &c., and the necessary conditions of cultivation. Col. Wilder had instructed him to underdrain and practice thumb pruning, i. e., to check the growth of the wood in order to ripen it and enable it to furnish more sac- charine matter to the fruit whenever it is formed. Gov. Lincoln said that his attention had been particularly arrested by a remark of some gentleman, during the discussion, that the size and quali- ties of some varieties of the pear would be greatly improved by a severe pruning of the tree while fruiting. He felt constrained, by his unfortunate experience, to offer a word of caution against recourse to any such prac- tice. He thought, whatever might be the eifect upon the fruit of a single season, that, of all fruit-bearing trees, the pear would least admit of severe pruning. If you destroy the due proportion of the branches to the root, you assur- edly impair the health and vitality of the tree. In several instances, in which he had attempted to change, too suddenly, the character of the fruit, by the process of engrafting into the branches, he had suffered the loss of the tree itself. The scions would push forward vigorously, for one or two years, and then scion, stock, and root would perish together. In engrafting into the top, he would not operate upon more, at most, than one fourth of the limbs in the same season ; nor, in pruning, would he advise to the very free removal of even apparently redundant branches of much size. The knife may be used safely upon twigs and small branches, but the saw always sparingly, and never to the removal of large portions of the top, at one time. From neglect of this caution, he had, within a few years, lost many of his most thrifty trees. Several gentlemen present "confirmed the observations of Gov. Lincoln. Among others, Mr. Edward Earle remarked that his own experience in grafting old and considerably grown pear trees had been similar to that of the governor. He had lost, at sundry times, a number of very fine stocks. He now makes it a rule to be three or four years changing the tops of pear 234 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. trees. That is, he commences by grafting a small portion ; and so on until sufficiently changed. I have thought, and my experience shows, that the tops of native stocks will bear changing much more rapidly than grafted stocks. [Gov. Lincoln always gives good advice. His remarks are strictly true and should be remembered. — Ed.] April 5. — In the absence of Hon. Alexander Bullock, president, senior vice president John Milton Earle in the chair. The committee upon the Eight Best Market Pears, made the following report : — Committee — George Jaques, chairman; D. Waldo Lincoln, Samuel H. Colton. At the meeting of the society, on Thursday, the 25th of March, several gentlemen present prepared lists of what they would recommend as the best eight varieties of the pear for cultivation for the market. The number of lists was ten ; the whole number of pears recommended was 26, which are numbered about in the order that they begin to be in eating: — NAME. NO. OF TOTES. NAME. NO. OF VOTES. SUMMER VARIETIES. 13. Buffum, - - 7 L Doyenne d'Ete, 2 14. Fulton, - - 3 2. Madeleine, 1 15. Marie Louise, - - 1 3. Beurre GifFard, - 3 16. Doyenne Defais, - 1 4. Rostiezer, 4 17. Urbaniste, - 2 EARLY AUTUMN. 18. Beurre d'Anjou, - 5 5. Bartlett, - 9 19. Dix, - 1 G. Saint Ghislain, - 1 LATER AUTUMN AND WINTER. 7. Belle Lucrative, 3 20. Duchesse, - 6 8. Flemish Beauty, 2 21. Le Cur6, - 2 9. Paradise d'Automne, - 2 22. Lawrence, - 2 MIDDLE AND LATE AUTUMN. 23. Glout Morceau, - 1 ]0. Beurre Bosc, 2 24. Winter Nclis, - - 4 n. Seckel, - 5 25. Iron, - 1 13. Louise Bonne de Jersey ,6 26. Easter Beurre, - - 1 The eight having the most votes were — Bartlett, 9 ; Buffum, 7; Louise Bonne de Jersey and Duchesse, G each ; Seckel and Beurre d'Anjou, 5 each ; Rostiezer and Winter Nelis, 4 each. The committee were also instructed to prepare a list of eight varieties of the pear, such as they themselves would recommend as best for market cul- tivation ; also, to state the manner of cultivation, whether on pear or (juincc, and the soil adapted to each variety. After some discussion, it was unanimously agreed to recommend the fol- lowing eight pears, M'hich arc numbered in the order of their ripening (p. meaning pear roots, q. quince ditto): 1. Rostiezer, p. 5. Louise Bonne do Jersey, - q. 2. Bartlett, ------ p. G. Seckel, p. 3. Flemish Beauty, - - - p. 7. Duchesse, - - - - - q. 4. Paradise d'Automne, - - p. b. Beurre d'Anjou, - p. or q. MAY. 235 For four more varieties, mnking a dozen market pears, tlie committee would add four autumn pears, numbered as they come into eating, viz : 1. Buffum, ----- - p. 3. Beurre Bosc, - - - - y). 2. Fulton, ------ p. 4. Marie Louise, - - - - p. The committee cannot undertake to report in regard to the soil and cul- tivation specially adapted to each variety of the fruits above recommended. They would however, state, in a general way, the conditions which they consider essential to the successful cultivation of nearly all pears. These are: 1st. High cultivation; especially of certain varieties, as the Seckel, &c. 2d. Very deep tillage. 3d. Underdrainage, wherever the subsoil is clay, hard pan or retentive in its character. 4th. Thinning-out of the fruit, wherever there is a tendency to over bearing. 5th. Protection from the wind. This is very important. The protection may be a high wall or board fence, or belt of evergreen trees, which, where the room can be afforded, is, perhaps, the best of all, being at once useful and ornamental. Respectfully submitted, George Jaqdes, Chairman. D. W. Lincoln concurred in the report. He would not, however, recom- mend the Buffum. Thinks the most of its reputation is due to the fabulous prices of the fruit from a tree belonging to his friend, Mr. Edward Earle. April 18. — D. Waldo Lincoln, Esq., in the chair. Vice president John M. Earle, from the committee to report the " twelve best varieties of pears for domestic use," submitted the following list: 1. Beurre Giffard, - - - on p. 7. Louise Bonne de Jersey, q. 2. Rostiezer, ----- p. 8. Seckel, - - - - - - p. 3. St. Ghislain, - - - - p. 9. Sheldon, p. 4. Bartlett, ------ p. 10. Beurre d'Anjou, - - - q. 5. Paradise d'Automne, - - p. 11. Lawrence, ----- p. 6. Flemish Beauty, - - - p. 12. Winter Nelis, - - - - p. Voted to act upon the varieties recommended, seriatim. 1. Beurre Giffard. Jonathan Grout considers it a good and regular bearer. It is handsome, and always fair ; quality, best. S. H. Colton deemed the fruit always fair, and nearly first rate. J. M. Earle said that it ripens by the fifteenth of August. They are of one uniform quality. He thinks that they keep as well, if not better, than the fruit of any other early pear. Adopted. 2. Rostiezer. J. M. Earle remarked that it was a most constant and abundant bearer. In Boston they want all they can get. In this opinion D. Waldo Lincoln decidedly concurred, and, without dissent, the Rostiezer was adopted. 3. St. Ghislain. J. M. Earle characterized it as a great bearer and free grower ; the tree being also very hardy. It is good on pear or quince. S. H. Colton and the chair endorsed these statements from their own expe- rience. The St. Ghislain was adopted. 4. Baitlett. No one appearing disposed to challenge the excellence of this favorite fruit, on motion, it was adopted by acclamation. 236 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. 5. Paradise d'Automne. The chair and Edward Earle spoke of it in the highest terms. J. M. Earle said that it has yielded him more than any other variety. It should be picked in season — at just the right time. Adopted. 6. Flemish Beauty. Edwin Draper and Dr. R. Woodward think that it blows off. Mr. Draper has been troubled by its rotting at the core. J. M. Earle thought that it would neither blow off nor rot at the core, if picked at the right time. Samuel V. Stone wanted to know when would be the right time for picking ; might it not be picked either too early or too late. J. M. Earle thought not ; if picked when half grown all the better. Edward Earle found it cracked very easy. The cliair's experience was that it blew off. He suggested that the Fulton is a better pear. J. M. Earle consid- ered the Fulton, though small, a very fine pear, yet not equal to the Flem- ish Beauty. Gov. Lincoln remarked that he had got very excellent pears from the Fulton, but none at all from the Flemish Beauty. Upon motion, voted, that the Flemish Beauty be passed over. 7. Louise Bonne de Jersey. On quince. No voice being raised, in ob- jection, on motion of Edward Earle, it was adopted. 8. Seckel. Adopted at once, and with entire unanimity. 9. Sheldon, J. M. Earle thinks it has a very high flavor. Edward Earle likes its appearance. S. H. Colton said that it must be grown upon a pear stock. As a general rule, our American pears do not do well on quince. Sheldon was adopted. 10. Beurre d'Anjou. J. M. Earle esteemed it a handsome pear and a good bearer; appearances are favorable. S. H. Colton thought that it gave good promise, although of quite recent introduction. The chair had the highest opinion of it; he had often had trees loaded down to the ground with their burden of fruit. The Beurre d'Anjou was adopted. ] I. Lawrence. Edward Earle esteems it a good bearer. J. M. Earle said that when it has some age, it is a constant and free bearer. S. V. Stone would inquire if Mr. Earle considers the Lawrence as good a pear as the Glout Morceau ? He thought few pears could be compared with it. Mr. Earle's reply was not wholly understood in the buzz of conversation. He was un- derstood to remark that the Glout Morceau was unreliable — dependent too much upon the character of the season. Mr, vStone responded that his ex- perience differed. He had raised the Glout Morceau at all seasons, and had no difficulty in so doing. The Lawrence was adopted. 12. Winter Nelis. Edward Earle moved its adoption. The chair would not have roconiinended it. He had tried it for twenty-five years, and could with difficulty raise a crop. Other gentlemen followed in its favor, whose remarks were nearly inaudible. Winter Nelis was adopted. No. G. The consideration of the Flemish Beauty was then resumed. It was moved to substitute the Beurre Bosc. The chair, and Messrs. J. M. Earle, S. H. Colton, and Edward Earle participated in tlic discussion. Flemish Beauty udo|)to(I. And thus was closed llio list of tlie twelve best. The committee also boggod leave to report a list of twelve other pears for domestic use, should tiie first be insufficient, as follows: MAY. 237 1. Belle Lucrative, - p. or q. 7. Beurre Clairgcau, - - p. 2. Dearborn's Seedling, - p. 8. Dix, -p. 3. Urbaniste, - - - p. or q. 9. Beurre Bosc, - - - - p. 4. Glout Morceau, - - - q. 10. Beurre Superfin, - p. or q. 5. Marie Louise, - - - - p. IL Duchesse d'Angouleme, q. 6. Doyenne Boussock, p. or q. 12. Doyenne de Cornice, - - q. And, after a conversational discussion, in which a number of gentlemen indulged, it was voted to accept this supplementary report, and to adopt the list therein recommended. In our record of the January meeting we omitted the report of the Finance Committee, which was then made, but of which we had no copy. We now present it, as it will be interesting to learn the financial condition of the Society : — Receipts for 1861. By cash in treasury, December 31, 1860, - _ _ INCOME. " dividends from stocks, - - - ^1,544 00 " assessments collected, - - - 912 30 " receipts from Mount Auburn, - - 5,022 54 " rents collected and items, - - 221 04 " receipts from Annual Exhibition, - 241 75 " interest from Parker's note, - - 3,600 00 11,541 63 " Spring Exhibition, $63.50; donation from members, $132.00, 195 50 " invested — Legacy from the late Hon. B. V. French, - 500 00 #13,177 96 Payments for 1861. EXPENSES To premiums and gratuities, . - - $2,765 00 " salaries, $650 ; chairmen of committees, $200.00, 850 00 " printing and advertising, . - - 455 05 " portraits and frames, . _ . fe69 70 " library, ($419.84 belonging to last year,) .- 1,019 88 " special awards and compensation, (Kenrick,) 485 00 " expenses of Annual Exhibition, - - 614 64 " rents, 1,550 00 " mechanics' and miscellaneous bills, - 971 94 $9,581 21 " extra expenditure — Mt. Auburn catacombs, $500.00 ; water- works, $1,500.00, 2,000 00 " donation to soldiers' fund, ----- 195 50 238 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. To investment — 5 shares Western Railroad stock, ($500 of it French fund,) - - - - - - 564 50 " cash in treasury, December 31, 186], ... 83675 $13,177 96 Property of the Societt, Permanent — x\mount invested in the Massachusetts Hospital Life Insurance Co., ...... $4,000 00 Being the donations of — Josiah Bradlee, Esq., - - . . #1, 000 00 Theodore Lyman, Esq., - - . 1,000 00 Samuel Appleton, Esq., - - . 1,000 00 John A. Lowell, Esq., - - - 1,000 00 $4,000 00 Amount of legacy of late Hon. Benj. V. French, in 1860, of $500, invested in five shares of Western Railroad, cost - 564 50 Amount of legacy of Hon. Theodore Lyman, ... 10,000 00 Invested in 1st Mortgage Bonds of the Connecticut and Pas- sumpsic Rivers Railroad, $4,500; 6 shares of Boston and Maine Railroad, and 53 shares of the Boston and Worcester Railroad. 20 shares of Saco and Portsmouth Railroad, ... 2,000 00 10 shares Boston and Maine Railroad, > - r^^ ^« 65 shares Fitchburg Railroad, ) Library, $2,500 ; furniture and glass, $2,500, - - - 5,000 00 H. D. Parker's note, secured by mortgage, ... 60,000 00 Cash on hand December 31, 1861, .... 836 75 Boston, December 31, 1861. $89,901 25 Saturday, March 1, 1862. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, — the President in the chair. Walter Russell, Alex. McDonald, and Geo. D. Oxnard were elected members. Adjourned one month to April 5. Jlpril 5. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, — Vice President Wight in the chair. The commiltoc appointed to procure a suitable location for building a new hall were autliorizcd to proceed in their labors, and purcliase any prop- erty which in their opinion might be considered desirable. On motion of C. M. llovcy, tlie Executive Committee were instructed to consider the propriety of paying a salary to the Corresponding Secretary, or in some way rewarding him for his services. Tlie Executive Committee to whom was referred the report of the com- mittee to conHidcr whether any further action was needed in regard to pre- miums and gratuities, approved of a portion of liie report, and it was uc- ccptcd by an unanimous vote. Mrs. II. VV. Wellington and Daniel Murray were elected members. Adjourned one month to May 3. MAY. 239 lortituItarHl Dperations FOR MAY. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. The early part of April was accompanied with a few warm days which gave a rapid start to vegetation, but since then it has been cool with frost, and no farther advance has been made up to the present time. The frosts were not severe enough to do any injury, and there is every prospect for a fine crop of fruit. Grape Vines in the grapery will now have set their fruit, which will be swelling rapidly. Give more air now, and top all laterals extending too far, and commence thinning the berries as soon as they attain the proper size ; damp down the house, morning, noon and night. Vines in the cold grapery will be in flower this month ; air freely in good weather, but close early to retain a good warmth ; water the walks, and maintain a moist, humid atmos- phere. Vines in pots now swelling their fruit should be freely watered. Repot young stock intended for fruiting next year. Vines in the open air should be trained up neatly to the trellis or a stake, pinching off shoots not wanted. Peach Trees should be liberally watered, and have an abundance of air. Pot young plants if more trees are wanted. Orchard Houses should now receive careful attention; close early to guard against sudden changes of temperature. Grafting should be continued this month. Strawberries should be planted ; it is the best month in the year for making new beds. Stir the soil between the plants in old beds. Raspberries and Blackberries should be tied up to a trellis or neat stakes ; dig up all superfluoas suckers which exhaust the old plants. Fig Trees may now be put into large pots and brought forward in the grapery or orchard house. Pruning Fruit Trees should be continued at all leisure opportunity. Manure freely and spade lightly the soil around fruit trees, mulching if the weather should prove dry. flower department. The season pushes now, and everything should be in readiness to bed out as soon as the weather becomes warmer. Remove many hard-wooded plants, done flowering, to frames, where they can be shaded from the hot sun, and make more room for pelargoniums and other plants coming into flower. Keep the camellias well syringed and watered, and repot and put in order all plants that require it. Pelargoniums will now show the effects of good or poor treatment. If well grown they will be superb specimens of foliage and flowers. Water frequently with liquid manure and turn the plants round often to keep a handsome form ; air freely and shade from the hot sun. Camellias should be freely watered and syringed every day. 240 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. Azaleas still in flower should be freely watered and shaded from the hot sun. Prune in all straggling plants out of bloom, and repot if fine spe- cimens are wanted. Stop the young growth so as to form bushy plants; propagate for a young stock now. Chrysanthemums intended for large specimens should be repotted. AcHiMENES should be potted off. Heaths should be removed to the open air and be plunged in tan or rot- ten leaves. Japan Lilies should be repotted into their flowering pots. Fuchsias should have attention; nip in the young growth to form bushy plants. Orchids may no\v be repotted. Ferns should be repotted. Gesneras should be repotted and started into growth. Orange Trees should be repotted ; stop the young shoots so as to form handsome bushes. Propagate young stock for winter blooming, such as Eupatoriums, Stevias, Begonias, &c. flower garden and SHRUBBERY. The lawn will now require particular attention ; give it a thorough rolling after the first rain and continue to roll every week till a good firm surface is obtained ; mow as soon as a sufficient growth has been made. Rake and roll the walks and keep the surface of the shrubbery neat and clean. Re- move all rubbish from the flower beds and borders, and dig, rake and clean the surface. Carnations and Picotees should be planted as early as possible to get a vigorous growth. Herbaceous Plants should be transpla,nted at once. Tree Carnations planted out now will flower all summer. Gladioluses should be planted now ; and for a succession, plant two weeks later. Hardy Annuals of all kinds may be planted immediately. Dahlias may be planted tlie last of the month. Rhododendrons and Azaleas may be planted this month; it is the best season. Verbenas and other bedding plants may be planted out after tlie 20tli of this month. Erytiirinas may be planted out this month. Peonies sliouUl be neatly staked as they attain their growth. Climbing Plants of all kinds should be neatly trained to the trellis or whatever support they may have. Roses should be pruned immediately; manure the ground heavily, and spade lightly. • Evergreens of all kinds may be transplanted any time during the month. Cannas may be planted nut the last of the month. Asters raised in pots or boxes should be planted out the latter part of this month. ROSES. Already the bursting buds and opening leaves betoken the rich store of pleasure tlie rose season affords, awakening in anticipation the luxury of a morning stroll or a twilight ram- ble among the rose beds, gathering fresh blossoms wet with the early dew or evening shower. Yet how much more delightful the actual enjoyment of so much beauty, when, ere the sun has gilded the horizon, we search among our latest addition of new varieties and gather the first opening flower of some choice novelty, or, passing to well known faces, pluck the familiar and dazzling bloom of the " Gen- eral," and, as a fit companion for such a hero — now that they are performing such heroic acts — La Reine is none too good ; or, if a poetical friend is preferred, Shakspeare shall be selected. But why may not others enjoy the same compan- ionship, when we have not only Ladies, but Dukes and Barons and Lords and even Giants, of high blood. Who would refuse Baron Prevost such a place, or Lord Raglan or the "Giant;" and, if we add the fair and lovely Lgelia and the snowy-robed Madame Hardy, who shall say we have not a select coterie of friends ? We revel among the roses. We enjoy them at morn and eve. Even the noonday sun finds us often among our favorite plants. We load our breakfast table with the beautiful and fragrant flowers, gathered with the morning dew, and literally feed upon their loveliness. Twilight finds us reluctantly leaving their companionship, and our library table is bur- dened with freshly-cut blooms, whose sweetness fills the air. Our Silver Goblet, the laurels of a sharply contested "Thirty," is overshadowed by their glorious buds, which hang in rich profusion. ' We light our cigar, and close the summer eve in dreamy contemplation of their exquisite forms, their glowing tints, and their wonderful perfection. Though roses to us are no rarity at any season of the year, it is only in the abundance of the rose season that we can actually enjoy them in all their rich luxuriance and loveliness. VOL. XXVIII. — NO. VI. 16 242 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. An English clergyman, who is not only a good cultivator but one of the most ardent admirers and successful exhibitors of the rose, thus closes an account of the great National Rose Exhibition, held in London every year : — " How lovely are the roses in the soft light of eventide ! They have acquired the fineness of petal, the brightness of color, which they had lost awhile beneath the summer sun, and with their rosy faces washed with dew, seem to rest, rejoicing in the cool tranquillity of the declining day. Gen- eral Jacqueminot, and the Giant, fold their martial cloaks around them, as though preparing for sleep ; but awake or nodding, erect or pendent, cupped or expanded, all are beau- tiful. Most beautiful, as though flushed with victory, those who have been destroyed at ' the National.' The old favor- ites seem to exult that they are not wholly superseded, and the Belles, more recently introduced, to pride themselves on their first conquests and to foresee new victories. I take off my hat to them, young and old, wishing them ' bon repos,' and after happy morrows peaceful rest in the pot pouri jar. Parentally, on my way to bed, I must take a peep at the nursery, and say good night to the young ones. Good night to master Eugene Appert, at rest upon his noble leaves. Pie has not attained to the desiderated size, but his complexion is glorious, and, until some novelty shall surpass him in shape and circumference, no rose garden can be complete witliout him. This season has not been so favorable to him as the last, but few roses have attracted more attention on the tree, especially from the brighter eyes and rosier lips of our kind. Good night to Anna do Dicsbach, tlic largest rose I have seen this summer ; to the two Franks — Francois Premier, so vivid in coloring and so compact in form, and Francois Arago, of rich claret hue, and to those who, with me, think much of contrasts, most valuable for exhibition ; to Armidc, circular and cheerful, well shown by Messrs. Eraser, at the National ; to llomcre, a very pretty, promising tea — " aliquaniU) bonus dormitat Ilomcrus," and now I begin to nod ; and so alas good night to the l)cautiful Comtesse Cccilc do Chabrillaiit, (let us cull her the Coirnless, my brothers, since life really is too short, and ovir tallies also, for these etymological excesses,) of whom I need say little, seeing that Mr. Andrews, pitying JUNE. 243 my sleepiness, lias bravely ventured ' to paint the rose,' and her sweet ladyship is now before you. When I first beheld her, escorted by a knight of the Bath division, Mr. Tiley, to Hanover Square rooms, I tendered admiration and alle- giance— ' When first I saw thy face, I resolved To honor and renown thee.' And I have seen her subsequently only to confirm my love. Ample as fair, (1 blush for some of our fraternity, who persist in describing duchesses, countesses, mesdames, and even mesdemoiselles, as 'robust' and 'full,') of perfect symmetry and very ' constant,' she takes a place at once by the throne of our queen of flowers, and will be the beauty of many a ' drawing-room,' the belle of many a box. Good night ! " But it will perhaps be thought quite superfluous to eulogize the rose. Its claims to our affection are interwoven with our existence, and if our admiration is not always expressed, it is because the occasion does not offer, or our attention is occu- pied with other objects. The brow of the young bride is wreathed witli fresh buds, and sorrowing hearts strew them over the bier of dear friends. Lost in our reverie, we return to the subject matter of this chapter, which was to direct the attention of our readers to the rose and its culture. The season is approaching, and indeed has already arrived with many of them, when the roses will begin to display their beautiful flowers. It is the season for young amateurs who intend planting, to make themselves familiar with the best varieties ; for in the multi- tude of new sorts, all good, there are some which are more desirable than others, especially where garden room is limited, and but few can be planted. Proceed, then, to visit the best collection at hand, and, with pencil in hand, note down the names of such as please your taste ; reserve your list till autumn or spring, and then order such as your memorandum indicates ; or, if there is no opportunity to do this, send your order, at the proper season, to a reliable nurseryman, and leave the choice to him to send you such a collection as your space, large or small, may require. He will often do better for you than you can do for yourself ; for, of the free-growing 244 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. and hardy kinds, he generally has a good stock, while the more slender and less hardy sorts which you might select, are often hard to get, and still harder to keep when you get them. Avoid budded roses by all means. Keep away from auction rooms. Give pedlers the cold shoulder. Our climate is too severe for tree roses, and, beautiful as they are, we must forego the pleasure of their cultivation. So much we advise amateur rose growers. And now, as some guide in the proper selection of a limited collection, and as an aid to all who wish to look for such as are really beautiful, we volunteer our taste in the selection of twenty-four superior roses, supposing hardy sorts are wanted for out-door culture. We give them according to the classes to which they belong : — Gallica : Boula de Nanteuil, Shakespeare, Amiable. Hybrid Bourbon : Coupe d'Hebe, Paul Perras, Madame Plantier, George lY. Damask : Madame Hardy. Moss : Common Moss, Marie de Blois, Princess Adelaide. Alba : Madame Legras St. Germain. Hybrid Perpetual : Jules Margottin, General Jacqueminot, Louis Peyronny, Lord Raglan, Anna de Diesbach, Baron Prevost, Auguste Mie, Sydonie, La Reine, Triomphe de Paris, Geant de Batailles, and Duchess of Sutherland. To name twenty-four roses out of the hundreds of beautiful varieties is a difficult task, when all have so many claims to our admiration. Those we name are mostly show flowers, where th-e object is to exhibit in village or city horticultural societies. Other sorts are quite as effective in the garden, and many equally good for show purposes, but these arc sufficient, with good culture, to enable the amateur to cut twenty as fine flowers as need be seen. If the newer ones are any better, they arc good enough. Li conclusion, we must urge more attention to the rose. It is easily grown ; will flourish in almost any soil if well manured, — and here let it be remembered tliey rovcl in it, as we do in their flowers. Don't be afraid to prune — a fear wliich ruins hundreds of fine collections. Syringe in good season with oil soap for the destruction of that pest, the rose JUNE. 245 slug ; gather your flowers, whetlior for the table or for exhi- bition, at daylight^ and you never need want for plenty of the most beautiful roses the patience and skill of the French cultivators have produced. HALF HOURS WITH OLD AUTHORS. BY WILSON FliAGG. "The Book of Husbandry." — By Sir Anthony Fitzherbert. This is a very rare and curious work, first published in England in 1539, and republished in 1767. Like all the books of that period it is full of quaint sayings, and abounds in Latin quotations. Tlie book treats rather of farming than gardening, but it contains a good proportion of matter which would be interesting to the readers of this Magazine. The treatise is concluded with three or four chapters on theological subjects. The author remarks in his "prologue," as Job said, a man is ordained and born to do labor as a bird is to fly ; and the Apostle saith, he that laboreth not should not eat ; and the author goes on to speak of the general divisions of labor among the different classes of society. After various remarks concerning the management of land and of implements, he speaks of the " seed of discretion," and affirms tliat if a husbandman have of that seed, to min- gle it among his other corns, they will grow much the better, for that seed will tell him how many casts of corn every land ought to have. And if a young man hath not sufficient of that seed, let him borrow of his neighbors tliat have. He thinks they will not refuse him tliis favor, for this seed of discretion hath a wondrous property, for tlie more it is used or lent, the more it is ; it is a thing that you may give freely and take freely again, and yet you shall have' no less of it. To make a hedge, he says, you must get the stakes of the heart of oak, or of crabtree or blackthorn. Set the stakes within two feet and a half together, unless you have very good eddering, to bind with. And if it be double eddered, 246 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. it is much the better, as it gains strength from it and lasts the longer. Let the stakes be well driven, that the point take the liard earth ; and when the hedge is made and is well eddered, then take the mallet and drive down the edderings and also the stakes. For with the winding of the edderings the stakes are loosened, and require to be driven down anew. If the hedge be of ten or twelve years growing since it was first set, then take a sharp hatchet or handbill, and cut the sets in a plain place, nigh to the earth, more than half asunder, and bend them down toward the earth, and wrap and wind them together; but always see that the top lie higher than the root considerably ; for else the sap will not run into the top kindly, but in process, the top will die ; and then set a little hedge on the back side, and it shall need no more mending for many years. If the hedge be from twenty to thirty years old, then wind in first all the nethermost boughs, and wind them together, and then cut the sets in a plain place, a little above the ground, and more than half asunder, and to let it " slane " downwards and not upwards, for divers reasons. Then wind the boughs and branches thereof to the hedge, and, at every two or three feet, leave one set growing not plashed, and the top to be cut off" four feet high, or thereabouts, to stand as a stake, if there be any such, or else set another, and wind the others that are plashed about them. And if the boughs will not lie plain in the hedo-e, then cut them more than half asunder, and bind tliem to the hedge ; and then shall you not need to mend the hedge, but in few places, for twenty years or more. If the hedge be old, and consist of great stubs or trees, and thin at the bottom, so that animals can pass under or be- tween the trees ; then take a sharp axe, and cut the trees or stubs, that grow a foot from the ground, or thereabouts, in a plain place, within an inch or two inches of the side, and lot them " slane downward," and let the top of the tree lie over the root of another tree, and to j)lash down the boughs of the same tree, to stop the liollow places. And if all the void and hollow places will not be filled and stopjied, then scour the old ditcli and cast it up anew, and fill with earth all the void places. And if those trees will not reach in every place, to make a suflicient defence, then double quickset it, and JUNE. 247 ditch it anew in eveiy place that is needful, and set a hedge thereupon, and cover tlie sets to guard them from browsing cattle. The author's remarks concerning highways are curious and instructive. First, and principally, he says, see that there be no water standing in the highway, but that it be always cur- rent and running, and have no abiding more in one place than in another. And in summer when the water is dried up, get gravel and fill up every low place, and make them even, somewhat descending or current one way or other. And if there be no gravel nor stones to get, fill it up with earth in the beginning of summer, that it may be well hard- ened by carriage and treading of feet. And it is to be called well amended if the water will pass away from it. He con- demns the custom about London, where they make much more cost than is needed ; for there they ditch their high- ways on both sides, and fill up the hollow and low places with earth, and then they cart and lay gravel above it. And when a great rain or water cometh, and sinketh through the gravel, and cometh to the earth, then tlie earth swelleth and " bolueth," and waxeth soft, and with treading, especially with carriage, the gravel sinketh and goeth downward, as its nature requires, and then it becomes like a quicksand, and it is hard for anything to go over it. But if they would make no ditch in summer time, when the water is dried up, that a man may see all the hollow and low places, then they should carry gravel, and fill it up as high as the other knolls, it would not " bolne " nor swell, nor become quicksand, and every man might go upon the highway with his carriage, with ease and pleasure. He has some good hints concerning the transplantation of trees. He says, if you would remove and set trees, get as many roots with them as you can, and break them not nor bruise them. And if there be any root broken, or sore bruised, cut it off close to where it is bruised, with a sharp hatchet, or else the root will die. If it be ash, elm, or oak, cut off all the boughs clean and save the top whole. For if you make him rich of boughs, you make him poor of thrift for two causes. The boughs cause them to shake with wind and to loosen the roots. Then it cannot be obtained so perfect 248 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. but some of the roots must needs be cut, and then there Tvill not come so much sap and moisture to the boughs as there did before. If the tree be very long, cut off the top tvro or three yards. And if it be an apple tree or pear tree, or such other as beareth fruit, then cut away all the " water boughs," and the small boughs, that the principal boughs may have the more sap. And if you make a mark, which side of the tree stands toward the sun_. that it may be set so again, it is so much the better. There are some trees that may be set without roots, and grow well, making roots of themselves. Such are divers ap- ple trees tliat have knots in the boughs, and likewise poplar and withey (willow). They must be cut clean beside the tree that they grow on, and the top cut oflF eight or ten feet, and all the boughs between, and be set a foot deep or more in the earth, in good ground. There are four kinds of witheys, that is to say, white withey, black withey, red withey, and osier withey. White withey will grow upon dry ground, if it be set in the beginning of winter ; and will not grow in marshy ground. Black withey will grow better on marshy ground, and red withey in like manner ; and osier withey will grow best in water and moist ground. These are trees that will soon be nourished, and will bear much wood, and may be cupped once in seven or eight years, but not in sap time. Landlords set many such trees in their marshy grounds, for the production of wood. Some of his precepts hi relation to grafting are worthy of being repeated. It is necessary, he affirms, and also a profit and a pleasure, to have pears, wardens,* apples, and other fruits of divers sorts, and, tliercforc, it is needful to learn how to graft. I will quote only a few of liis sayings. Pears and wardens should be grafted before any manner of api)les, because the sap rises sooner into the ])ear tree and warden tree, than into the apjile tree. And, when grafting tlie ajji^e, graft that which is cut from an old apple tree first, for that will Itud bcfon; the graft cut from a young apple tree. For all manner of apples the crab stock is best. * Wank'n is a large kiiiil of ])c:ir, iirolnilily like the |)ouiul ])ear. JUNE. 249 He advises all those young gentlemen that intend to thrive, to get a copy of his present book, and read it from the begin- ning to tlie ending, so that he may comprehend the chapters and contents of the same ; and, by reason of oft reading, he may wax perfect in what should be done at all seasons. When he was at the grammar school he learned two verses, viz. : a drop of water pierceth a stone, by constant falling, and thus a man by constant reading may penetrate his own ignorance witli wisdom. He recommends his own book as founded on personal experience, for there is an old saying in Latin, which he thus renders into English : Better is the practice or knowledge of a husbandman, well proved, than the science or cunning of a philosopher, not proved ; but there is nothing touching husbandry and other matters con- tained in this book, but he has had experience of it and has proved the same. What he says respecting servants I will quote verbatim, simply modernizing the spelling. "Also take heed both early and late, at all times, what manner of people resort to thy house, and the cause of their coming, and especially if they bring- with them pitchers, cans, tankards, bottles, bags, wallets, or bushel pokes ; for if thy servants be not true, they may do thee great hurt, and themselves little advantage. Wherefore, they should be well looked upon, and he that hath two true servants, a man servant and a woman servant, he hath a great treasure." What the author says of weeds is curious ; rather as giting us their ancient English names, than as affording any special instruction. He speaks of divers manner of weeds, as this- tles, kedlopks, docks, cockle, drake, gouldes, hawdods, dog- fennel, mathes, ter, (tares,) and divers other small weeds. Dog-fennel and mathes, he says afterwards, are both one. I will conclude this article with some quaint observations of the author, how to keep measure in spending. He again quotes some verses he learned at the grammar school : He that doth more expend than his goods will extend, no marvel it shall be though he be grieved with poverty. He also quotes the Latin saying of a philosopher : Tone mensuram. That is to say, in English, hold and keep measure. The 250 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICDLTDRE. • husband and the wife that intend to follow the saying of the philosopher, must spare at the brink and not at the bottom. In the beginning of the year they must sell their products, and wait till harvest time before spending ; and then see what overplus there be. For all must eat within their tedure. And if you spend in the beginning of the year, and shall want in the latter end, you do not eat within your tedure. He compares such a spendthrift to a horse, that breaks his tedure, riots in the neighboring fields, and is put into the pynfold, (pound). He concludes as follows: "And if thou break thy tedure, and run riot at large, and know not other men's goods from thine own, then shall the pynder^ that is the sheriff and the bayley arrest thee, and put thee in the pynfold, that is to say, in prison, there to abide till the truth be known ; and it is marvel if thou escape with thy life : therefore thou must eat within thy tedure." CORDON TRAINING OF FRUIT TREES, ADAPTED TO THE ORCHABD-HOUSE AND OPEN-AIR CULTURE. BY REV. T. COLLINGS BRE'HAUT. CORDON TRAINING IN PLUMS AND CHERRY TREES. There were plums in the gardens of Charlemagne. The Reine Claude recalls the memory of the first wife of Francis I. ; while the Damascus plum came back to Europe among the Crusaders' baggage. Since these periods this pleasant fruit has daily increased in fiivor. Nevertheless it is not cultivated so much as it deserves to be. Plums arc in season for nearly five months, and arc invaluable for kitchen use. Everyone knows this ; but that which everyone docs not know is the amazing variety which exists in the present day, and among them are some extremely valuable plums. Amongst tliem are the Early Prolific (llivcrs), the .leirci-son, now, h(nvever, becoming appreciated, and rivalling the Green Gage (Rcinc Claude of the French), besides a number of JUNE. 251 others to be found in the lists of the day. These plums can be kept for some time in muslin bags, and they thus become shrivelled, but luscious in flavor. It is easy, therefore, to have plums for about five months on the table in some form or other. As to cultivation in orchard-houses they do admirably, but had better be placed out of doors about June or July, so as to improve their flavor, except in cold climates far north. I recommend the Early Prolific as far superior to the Early Yellow, a French sort, which is early, but a shy bearer ; then the Gages ; then Jefferson ; Reine Claude de Bavay, a stand- ard of perfection ; the Quetche ; Coe's Late Red ; and Hu- ling's Superb, for orchard-houses. But every one can choose, and hardly go wrong, where the variety is so very great and really good. 9. FORMATION OF SPURS ON THE PLUM. FIRST WINTER'S PRUNING. The plum, however, is a coarse feeder, and apt to be very vigorous — too vigorous for fruitful purposes. It must, there- fore, be kept in hand. The choice, and not too luxuriant sorts, will suit the Diagonal Cordon ; while, for the Horizon- tal, where there is plenty of room for lateral expansion, select the more vigorous kinds. The plum, contrary to the apricot, improves in flavor from a wall. The treatment of the leaders is as directed for the others, with intervals of twelve inches between them in every case. In FIG. 9 is seen the young shoot of the plum at the win- ter's pruning. The top must be shortened in, as in the apri- cot, by about one-third, keeping it to four inches long. The 252 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. pinching-in during the summer is as in the apricot. As soon as six inches long pinch back to four ; the next growth (as seen in fig. 9) pinch to one inch. Pinch the others closely in, as also seen. In the first winter cut back to four inches. During the ensuing summer endeavor to suppress, on the shoot, the too vigorous triple buds, selecting the feeble buds for the work in hand. Never neglect these plum spurs, or they will develop into rank luxuriance, and become unfruitful for several seasons. If, therefore, a tree be perceived with luxuriant growth on it everywhere, and the extremities waving defiantly in the breeze to the height of some three feet over the wall, which is not unusual, then look for no fruit on any of those parts 10. FORMATION OF FRUITFUL SPURS ON THE PLUM. SECOND WINTER'S PUUNING. for two years. In fact, they must be cut out, for the spur would become fearfully thick at the base, and compete with the branches for the sap. Then, if cut out, how very trying to the tree is this excision, and what ugly places appear on the branches. Keep, then, those vigorous triple buds sup- pressed, and work with the weak ones. Riglitly managed, the spur will in a season or two look like that at fig. 10. This shoot will be sliortoned to within six inches, i. c. tlie spur will be four in length, and the later- als about two more. In fig. 10 this is seen. The little lateral at the top is, say, two inches beyond its parent, and has some neat ilowcr-buds on it. Merely shorten it so as to keep it JUNE. 253 compact. The next lateral is treated on the same principles, while that below on the left hand is shortened in order to be- come a future spur, because the buds at that part are natur- ally leaf-buds, and inclined to extend if cut back to, according to the principles laid down in the beginning, of concentrating the sap iilto one or two buds. On the other side, the right hand, is seen a group of buds which will be fruitful the next season, and must not be touched, just as in the case of the peach. After the laterals at the top have borne, and tlie shoot, cut back near the base, has made some other ramifica- tions, then will be time to remove the top and its laterals at A, to let these new shoots take their place, leaving the lowest group of buds alone. Others will also spring up, possibly nearer the base, and so on. There is no difficulty whatever, and it is very easy to keep these spurs within five inches, or even four. Of course, if for a Diagonal Cordon plant, as also apricots, it should be at 36 inches from stem to stem, as in peaches. Above all, avoid all ill-drained soils. THE CHEERY. This delicious little fruit, probably the gift of Lucullus to the Italians, requires very free ventilation if kept under glass, and only a few varieties are worthy of this care, except in places where birds abound. The very earliest is the Belle d'Orleans, and, as such, is suitable for orchard-houses. The Duke tribe are splendid, and the New Royal is highly spoken of. I have not seen it. Some late kinds are useful to keep, if there is space for them in the house, and they can be kept in muslin bags. The treatment of the spurs is like plums, and very easy, because the groups of round flower-buds soon form at the base, and by pinching freely in can be kept fruit- ful. It is a capital plan to break the shoots instead of cutting them ; and as cherry shoots grow very freely, they must not be overlooked : if so, then it is best to break them partially through^ and let the broken ends shrivel up before cutting them off. If grown as bushes in the house, spur them in more closely, and shorten the branches freely. A damp situ- ation is quite unsuitable for a good cherry tree, and they re- quire calcareous matter in the soil. As to Morello cherries, 254 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. it is a waste of time aud labor to grow them on north walls — better leave them to the birds; while if placed in a fair posi- tion, this sort will rival many of the others. I find cherries do remarkably well as Diagonal Cordons, and they do not, as I feared, grow too strongly to be treated in this way. I have a high south wall of these cherries intermingled with good plums, and they look very promising, all on the Diagonal plan. Some of my best are the Duchess of Palluau, a new and splendid variety, as a fan-shaped Cordon, and an Early Black, extremely well grown, because the branches, with the addition of a guiding rod, will grow as straight as pipe sticks, and look magnificent. Pyramidal bushes in pots are very handsome. As soon as four leaves appear on the shoots, pinch in to three, and favor the developjnent of the base, but not so as to exceed the diameter of the pot. CORDON TRAINING IN PEAR TREES. This most valuable fruit is a general favorite, and requires a somewhat peculiar treatment, because it differs from the preceding, especially from the peach, in this important par- ticular, that as soon as a fruitful spur is formed, there is no necessity to reneiu it, — it will last as long as the tree, with due care. No alternation of bearing wood is here needed, as in the peach, and therefore it is the basis of a quite different treatment, which is also applicable to the apple. The pear, however, resembles the peach and nectarine in this respect : that it is equally suited for the various forms of Cordon training, and thrives best on the Diagonal plan. In fact, there is really no other way of managing it, and the forms in use arc based on the same principles, only misunder- stood; and this is the reason that pear trees bear well in many localities, although our continental neighbors will not believe it. The pear so naturally follows the system described lierc, that it leads the pruner into it, do what he will. Many objections, too, having little real force in the case of the peach, have none whatever in the case of the pear. It is a curious fact, that though the pear is confessedly a most valuable fruit, and one so generally cultivated, its real JUNE. 255 history is tlic least cleai-ly ascertained. There is a quaint tradition tliat the Sabines planted the Roiisselet pear, on what occasion is not said. The loss of their wives and daughters would hardly be a suitable time for pear planting, unless it was intended to console lost fair ones by reminiscences of home, and "perry;" for this ancient beverage is clearly al- luded to by Pliny, who calls it " excellent." From the Sabines we ascend through the dark ages, unillumined by horticulture, to that period when St. Martin, the good bishop of Tours, had the honor of having a pear named the " Bon Chretien," as a reward for his virtues. This is about all that is really known about the history of this fruit. The pear accommodates itself to almost any shape, and thus to describe and to practise Cordon training is equal- ly simple. Choose for a Diagonal Cordon, young and straight trees, of equal vigor, one year old from the graft, and, in Novem- ber or later, lay them in against the wall, just a« in peaches, at the same intervals, — and also, the first year, at 60 or 70 de- grees of inclination. But do not, as in the case of peaches, cut off the laterals to two buds at planting, as the pear re- quires all its foliage for the first year. Merely take off one quarter of the extremities of the laterals. During the ensu- ing summer encourage the growth of the leader, and pinch in a little of the new wood on the laterals to equalize their vigor. In October cut these laterals in to two buds, and re- duce the length of the leader by one-third, above a healthy front bud. The next summer, these two buds, on each lateral, or spur now, will develop themselves. As soon as these new shoots have reached six inches in length, pinch them back to four inches, or about eight or nine leaves. The next growths pinch back to one inch more, and so on. Any short shoots near the base which spring out, or any that make their termi- nal buds under four inches in length, must not be touched, as they are becoming fruitful of themselves from being near the leaders, which shows how natural this system is. Pinch so as to leave as much of wood above the last bud left as you can, because this exhausts the sap, in drying it up, and the buds below have a greater chance of being left dormant, that 256 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. is, not "stimulated to elongate," as Lindley says. The young shoots must not be allowed to grow till they are, say, ten inches long, instead of six inches. K they have been thus unwisely neglected, then it is too late to pinch in. K you did, some of the buds at the end would break out into short laterals, just what is undesirable. If, however, they have reached to ten or twelve inches unperceived, then bend them backwards, and twist them into a knot. This checks further growth, and they can be cut back in the winter. If they are very vigorous shoots, from the tree being of a pow- erfully growing kind, or from the shoots themselves being in 11. FORMATION OF FRUITFUL SPURS ON THE PEAR. COMMENCEMENT. a vertical (a most dangerous) position, tlicn the evil is much greater. You must partially break them through, about half way, and in addition piiicli off the ends of the rampant shoots, and let thcni liang thus, and sln-ivel up, till tlic winter pruning ; and even then, probably, a season will be lost before fruit ap- pears at that spot. In tlic case of Diagonal Cordon training against walls, all forcrights must also be preserved. The leader will soon reach eight or ten feet, and can, in the win- ter pruning, be lowered to 45 degrees, there to remain in fu- ture. As in peaches, a strong lateral shoot having been JUNE. 257 reserved to form the second leader, which is also, of course, twelve inches distant, it will be shortened-in a little, and so ready to be bent upwards as the second leader next summer. Ill fact, the principles for forming a Diagonal Cordon, with triple leaders, are similar to those in the peach, with tlie marked exception of the treatment of the spurs. In the win- ter pruning of these spurs, and the two shoots on each, which having been several times pinched in, look like fig. 11, they must now be broken, not cut at four inches. The original spurs add an inch or so to the total length, but it will always be easy to keep the shoots and spurs under six inches. Some of the shoots may have less than the three buds shown, which 12. FORMATION OF FRUITFUL SPURS ON THE PEAR. COMPLETION. is of no consequence, for one fruitful bud is enough on each shoot. At the completion of the pruning (see fig. 12), when in winter, the ends are finally to be cut off, — not broken now, as in FIG. 11, where the object is different. When the ends are finally cut off, as seen, then nothing remains to be done, for the buds will have that appearance of protuberance and roundness that they can no longer be mistaken. They are to remain, therefore, on the shoots, one, two, or three, but never more. The three leaders will shortly be completed, and the wall look remarkably well. An immense saving of time is gained in this way. There are other irregular forms to be met with among the spurs, but they cannot be entered into in so brief VOL. XXVIII. — NO. VI. 17 258 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. a work as this is. I will therefore only add, that as soon as a pear has been produced on a shoot, cut off the pulpy part to which it held ; but only cut off the extremity^ otherwise the latent buds, for other seasons, will be destroyed. HORIZONTAL, VERTICAL, AND SPIRAL CORDONS IN PEAR TREES. In all of these, the spurs are managed exactly as before described. The Vertical Cordon may have the shape de- scribed in the Miniature Fruit Garden, page 17 ; i. e. it may have five leaders trained upwards. Trees on this mode bear very well. It is recommended by Mr. Rivers. The distances and spurs may be as described in the Diagonal Cordon. A great variety of fruits is obtainable in this way, — no small advantage. Spiral Cordons are treated in the same way as to spurs and distances. Three trees together may thus be grown (each on a single Cordon), if so wished, because the length of the spiral neutralizes the otherwise too great growth. Or one tree with three leaders may be trained thus. Most handsome and prolific trees they will be, and very amusing to watch. They are also very suitable for small gardens, as standards. Indeed, there is no better form in this case. Standard pear trees require some peculiar variations in their treatment. The shoots which are nearest to the main stem, and on the branches, will be generally weak, and should not be interfered with, as they are almost sure to become fruitful in time. The next on the branch, higher up, if under four inches in length, should also not be interfered with ; but those on the highest portions of the branches will always grow freely, because the sap flows thither vigorously. That mode, which is the same in principle, of bending tlic branches towards each other, is also a good way of checldng a vigorous tree ; but with a weak-growing tree it is useless. Moreover, the ends of the branches thus bent should be let loose in time, or they will dry up, and tlie vertical spurs must be closely watched. Horizontal, or fan-shaped pear trees, are trained on these same principles. The lowest stage of branches must not be lowered too soon, as Ijcforc said. JUNE. 259 These must be pinched to four buds, and the further growths each to one bud more. In the winter they must be broken at three buds. The very strong shoots should be only partially broken through, instead of pinching them off, and broken off quite at the winter pruning. The horizontal shoots are more fruit-bearing than the vertical. These last are annoying, and grow fast ; of course there are no spurs with two shoots on them, as in wall cordons, but each spur is a single one. The maximum of inclination of any branch from the main stem is seventy degrees. As the tree grows, shorten the lead- ers each winter, and the leading side branches by one-third, then by one-fourth, and finally, by one-sixth of their length ; so that the tree should grow in a pyramidal form, and the lower stages be always longer than those above them. This golden rule is too often neglected ; but the tree should not be allowed to become pillar-like by letting the leaders be too long, or by dwarfing the lowest stage of branches. The following brief notes on training Pyramid standards were made by me at Angers : — 1st year of planting. Plant in November, and trim off one-quarter of the side branches only. 2d year of planting, 1st of training. Leave twelve inches of stem ; select six buds for branches and one for a leader. Cut the branches close in to the stem, but not too near. The tree now looks like a walking-stick. 3d year of plantation, 2d of training. The first stage of six branches will develop itself, and allowing an interval of twelve inches, six more buds for the second stage of branches must be chosen, and one to continue the leader. Incise semi- circularly over the three lowest eyes to check the sap, and develop them. Pinch in, and break in winter the laterals on the first or lowest stage of branches, now pretty long ; keep them much longer than the second stage. 4th year of plantation, 3d of training. Allow twelve inches more of interval for a third stage. The 2d stage will now progress ; continue the leader vigorously upwards. Pinch laterals on the 1st and 2d stage to four buds, and break in winter to three buds. One half of the new wood on lowest stage must now be cut off. 260 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. 5tli year of plantation, 4th of training. Another interval; another stage. One-sixth only of the new wood on lowest stage should now be cut off. Regulate the upper stages from this one, and, tapering upwards, ascend to thirty feet by six feet at the base. Manure no deeper than three inches, — i. e. old litter lightly forked in, — and do not disturb the upper soil more than is needed for weeding, &g. Mulch in July, after the ground has become heated, but never before. Graft pears in August. As to apples, the treatment is similar to that recommended for pears. Bushes are the best form, with branches connected with their neighbors. These bushes should be at intervals of four feet. POMOLOGICAL GOSSIP The Chili Strawberry. — It is highly gratifying to be able to present our readers with an historical account of this fa- mous strawberry, one of the parents of our present improved race of superb varieties. Our knowledge of it heretofore has been imperfect, derived, as it has been, from English bota- nists and horticultural writers who either have not been fully acquainted with it, or deemed it of too little importance to require especial notice. French works, as we stated some time since, were more complete in their accounts of this species, but the necessity of reading through various authors to get the information, prevented its being given to the public. Thanks, however, to M. Decaisne, who in a late number of the Jardin Fruitier has presented a drawing of the fruit, and a very full and complete account of its introduction, cultiva- tion, and hyljridization with other varieties. We copy the entire translation, wliich is, we presume, by Mr. R. Thomp- son, in the Gardeners' Clironicle, and commend it to the attention of strawberry growers : — " Although this variety is not itself well suited for our cli- mate, yet as so many of our very best strawberries have been derived from it more or less directly, by crossing, and amongst . others tlie British Queen, some extracts from Professor De- JUNE. 261 caisiie's excellent account of it will doubtless prove interest- ing and useful to the cultivators of this favorite fruit. Fruit erect, very large, bluntly conical, pale rosy yellow on the shaded side, bright rose next the sun; seeds brown, large, and prominent ; flesh soft, tolerably juicy, and sugary, slight- ly perfumed. Flowers large, petals 7 or 8, yellowish-white, stigmas very large, pale greenish yellow ; of stamens there exist only some short thick rudiments. Scapes stiff, elevated above the leaves, covered with long silky hairs. Runners vigorous, but not numerous, often extending 20 inches with- out forming. a joint. Leaves thick, very large, erect ; leaflets concave, so as to admit of seeing part of the under surface, on which the silky hairs are so numerous that it appears white. The plants are very vigorous in their native country, and generally so near the sea. At Brest we have seen plants of this strawberry which were 25 years old, and which bore abundantly every year. It withstands badly the vicissitudes of the climate of Paris, and almost invariably dies after fruiting. As its name denotes, this magnificent species came to us from Chili ; but it is not confined to that part of South Amer- ica, for several authors state that it is also found on the west- ern side of North America, in California and Oregon. The Chili strawberry was first brought into Europe in 1712^ by the French traveller Frezier, an officer of Marine Artillery. 'I have seen it,' he writes to Duchesne, 'cultivated in small valleys where a stream could be brought in for watering it, as it only rains in Chili in two months of the year. Under these circumstances it bears so abundantly that it is sold in the markets by the bushel, or in large measures like common fruits.' At the present day, as at the time when Frezier visited Chili, the strawberry fields of Conception and those of the environs of Valparaiso are much resorted to by pleasure par- ties. The name of the Chili strawberry in Spanish is FrutiUa, and the excursion is termed Anclar a la Frntilla ; great num- bers join in it, and after a long journey on horseback they gather and eat the strawberries ripe and fresh in the fields where they grow. 262 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Of the plants brought by Frezier, in 1712, only five sur- vived the six months' voyage. Four of these were given to his friends at Marseilles, Valbonne, and Souzy ; the fifth he planted in the neighborhood of Brest, where it gave rise to thousands of plants which were cultivated in the communes of Plougastel, Loperhct, Dirinon, &c. Professor Decaisne says that at his request M. Guiastrennec of Brest ascertained from good authority that upwards of 444 acres were occupied in the vicinity of that place with the Chili strawberry, which did not appear to require on the coast of Brittany so much care in cultivation as the common mar- ket sorts do at Paris. The cultivators take the precaution to plant between the rows of Chili strawberries other sorts fur- nished with good stamens. The Old Scarlet and male plants of the Hautbois were formerly employed for this purpose, but for these a very vigorous sort, of which the origin is unknown, has been substituted. It is called the Fraisier de Barbarie, and appears to be a cross between the Old Scarlet and the Chili. Every year gives rise to accidental seedling varieties in the strawberry fields of Brittany ; five or six decidedly good have been preserved. In the neighborhood of Paris and elsewhere, except on the coast, the culture of the Chili straw- berry is very difficult, and if attempted, can only be contin- ued by obtaining fresh plants every three or four years from Plougastel. At Yerrieres, where the Chili perished in un- sheltered ground, I have succeeded in preserving it for 12 years by planting it in strong soil under the shade of a large cork tree [ Chene Liege, Quercus suber,'] and by not remov- ing the runners, these being allowed to replace naturally the old plants, the latter soon becoming exhausted. I planted near to the above the Old Scarlet, and successfully all the sorts in the collection ; but it seemed to me that the excellent English variety, the Deplford Pine, was the best for planting near the Chili in order to set its fruits. I thus obtained some Chili strawberries which on account of their great beauty and late j)eriod of ripening proved very interesting. 'The Chili strawl)erry is very juicy, and much richer in soluble than in insoluble substances. Malic acid, nitrogenized substance, fatty matter, and parenchyma non-nitrogenizcd is JUNE. 263 foiuui in medium proportion. The total amount of sugar in the fixed and more especially in the insoluble matters is greater than in most other varieties. Cane sugar is met with in notable quantity.' Chemical Examination of the Straw- berry, by M. Buignet. [The Chili strawberry crosses very readily with other sorts. We have seen it made the common female parent of more than twenty sorts, consisting of both scarlets and pines, and in the crossed progeny characteristics of the respective male parents could be plainly recognized. For instance, the Grove End Scarlet has very widely serrated leaves ; and those of its cross with the Chili were also remarkably so. Wilmot's Su- perb was a direct cross with the Chili. It was large, but had too much of the tender nature of the Chili. It was, however, much employed by the late Mr. Myatt in his crossing opera- tions, and by perseverance he succeeded in raising the British Queen, Myatt's Eliza, &c. We believe that all the first cross- ings of the Chili will still prove too tender for our climate, but by again crossing these with hardier sorts any number of excellent varieties may be obtained. As already observed the Chili will cross readily with the Scarlet and Pine varieties, but not so with the Hautbois ; and we doubt whether the strawberry cultivators at Brest can derive any benefit from introducing the male Hautbois into their Chili plantations. Mr. Knight did once, it is true, effect a cross between the Hautbois and a Scarlet ; but it had a' very decrepid appear- ance, with a crumpled foliage, and was, moreover, almost a mule.]" Mr. Decaisne's account shows how difficult it is to eradi- cate the characteristics of an original species. Although in- troduced a century and a half ago, there are now several seedlings, raised however within thirty years, which partake strongly of its habits, viz., withstanding with difficulty the vicissitudes of our climate, and dying off after fruiting, or becoming so feeble as to be of little use. Admiral Dundas, Deptford Pine, and others, are very difficult to cultivate suc- cessfully, though superb when they thrive and fruit; and this same weak character has been imparted to many other straW" berries. 234 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. Another characteristic is its qiiahtj of bearing for years when the chmate suits it, and its tendency to make but few runners, the plants increasing by off-shoots. Hence the ne- cessity of cultivating many of its progeny in hills, where the plants are not weakened by runners, and then they will suc- ceed for several years in succession. In fact the whole article is full of suggestions and hints, and throws an abundance of light upon the culture of our present varieties of this fruit. IN-DOOR GARDENING. FROM THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. There are several modes of managing plants in-doors, each of which is in fact adapted to some special sort of plant which thrives under that system, though not under others equally. The greatest number of plants are to be found perhaps in common plant stands and jardiniers ; it is of these therefore generally that one has to speak. Then there are the plant cases, which give an exceptional atmospliere, and which being indeed small hothouses, enable us to grow stove plants, and to procure their flowers in winter. Hanging baskets come under the list of open plant stands ; and are often worse off than these, inasmuch as they are smaller, and hang more in a drauglit of air. My present object however in naming plant stands, is to remind any in-door gardeners who are now buying new ones, to have such by all means as protect the flower pots, and give room for a 7nass of moss to surround the stems. The gilt and wire tables and all sucli like things for plants are infinitely worse than useless ; the (lco})ish baskets filled with trays of zinc, tlio wooden stands also made like boxes, and above all the bcaulilul rouutiiin-sliapod vases of majolica and such like ware, are the tilings really suitable for keeping ])laiits in heallli. It is, too, rather dilVicult to suit the stands sometimes both to the room ami llowcrs, and for tliis 1 think tliat the Eiiij^lisli niiijolica would answer every want. The French ware of this sort is I)y mc disliked, because I do not JUNE, 265 see the appropriateness of " pretty pictures " on the flower vases, but some English majolica shown me some weeks ago (from Phillips's shop in Oxford street), seemed to me quite perfect in soft rich color, such as would harmonize with the flowers, and yet not be ovit of keeping in any sort of drawing- room. I know that such things are strictly beyond my "in- door garden " province ; still they keep plants so healthy and look so charming for them, that I cannot help speaking a word here and there in their favor. I have seen too so many things intended for growing plants, and it is so seldom that any of these are suitable. I do not know if all window gardeners care as much as I do for raising plants themselves. Bulbs and tubers are cer- tainly for all such tastes the pleasantest, because they grow up so fast and are really pretty during all the time of growth ; then, when they die down, they can be so easily stored away in dryness, till the time for repotting and for starting comes — thus giving little trouble as regards the winter, when all our space is precious. During the last week I have been very busy thus : When my gloxinias and achimenes and begonia Evansiana died down last year I let the soil in the pots gradually get quite dry, after which, obtaining a large empty flower pot, I wrap- ped each tuber, or set of tubers, up in blotting-paper, and put each parcel separately into this said dry flower pot. The pot was then filled up with some dry silver sand and put to stand in a warm fireside corner. Last week, then, I unpacked these parcels, and there was my begonia with a tiny pink shoot appearing, gloxinias start- ing with little clots of buds, achimenes Dazzle, looking fat and plump. Each was forthwith placed in a very small-sized flower pot, to be grown on in a warm damp place till the roots touch the pot. Charcoal drainage, plenty of moss above it, and then some good leaf mould, seems to suit them nicely. I do not water mine at all when they are first planted, the soil, no doubt, being quite damp enough after the dry sand. The gloxinias ought to be planted nearly on the surface of the soil, and only one in a pot. The beautiful little achim- 266 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. enes Dazzle may be in a 4-inch pot, but even though they flower in that in which they grow, they ought not to be planted less than three in a pot, to make a real good show, and even this should be deferred till March, unless indeed we want to force them on, which, for window gardeners, would be the worst sort of bad policy, as they blossom natu- rally just about August and September, when flowers some- times are rather scarce in-doors. Begonias, amongst tubers, should about now be planted. Cocoa-nut refuse suits them particularly well, and though I do not know if always real gardeners would be so fond of it, it really is to lady florists a very great help and benefit, cleaner than most things (especially if we get the husks and employ a small child to tear them up, shaking the powder out for us) and certainly very good for many kinds of plants. Begonia Evansiana is a great favorite of mine, though I be- lieve that seedsmen consider it to deserve contempt, being very old. There is also a long leaved, pink flowered sort, which is very ornamental from its dark-green foliage just touched with crimson on the stalks and edges, called, I think, begonia incarnata. These roots should be planted in 4 or 5- inch pots and put in a warm place, either in a hotbed or in a heated plant case. They come up very quickly if kept warm and moist, and make most charming foliage. Whether or not old-fashioned, an in-door gardener provided with some evergreens might be well content with nothing more than what tubers and bulbs would give her from one year's end to another. In summer, ferns with begonias make also most charming groups, and when blinds arc kept always closed, and geraniums and fuchsias keep falling in the twilight of a London drawing-room, the ferns and begonias apparently en- joy the subdued light and moistness as much as do their own- ers. I confess it is very pleasant too now and then, entirely to sluit up a glazed plant case filled with these, until dew has formed all over it, and the plants are bathed; when it is re- opened the freshness and the verdure is so truly charming, and tlic scent besides, if we have one sweet thing in it, has gathered such intensity, like summer flowers after a fall of rain. Tliis plan indeed is only possible in tliat one way of JUNE. 267 growth, but by constant sponging or frequently bedewing, the plants may be very thriving in an uncovered stand ; or a muslin curtain drawn over a bay window will often serve to keep in the plants' more congenial atmosphere. Anything to cause slight dewiness is the great thing for in-door garden- ers. Their greatest difficulty is always from dryness and want of light. It is thus, I think, that semi-aquatic plants thrive so well in rooms — Lilies of the kinds that bear much water ; Vallota purpurea, which may stand in water ; Callas also, which are never too wet while growing fast and flowering ; mimulus and begonias under the same regime; with all the other kinds of quickly-growing succulent plants, like balsams. The plants that grow so fast as these, generally drink much, and the water that they will stand having in their saucers just keeps the pots in a safe state of dampness, and fills the air around with a slight and refreshing dew. Geraniums, however, are the reverse of all this, for I never did know plants so difficult to keep right in rooms. I believe the truth is, that while they must have air, they must have moisture also. My own best success has been in regularly bedewing them every night and morning, whether or not in blossom, and in always, if possible, letting them stand out of doors at night in the hot summer time to benefit by the dew. This way certainly gave fewest yellow leaves. FLORICULTUR AL NOTICES. Azaleas. — The azalea has now become one of the most beautiful conservatory plants. The remarkable varieties re- cently introduced, by the skill of cultivators, has given a new feature to this family, and rendered it one of the most varia- ble as well as one of the most magnificent plants. The re- cent exhibitions in London brought out many remarkable specimens and quite a number of new seedlings, the produc- tion of English and Belgian cultivators. At the Spring Show of azaleas, by the Royal Horticultural Society, a magnificent collection was exhibited, which formed a bank several plants 238 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. deep and a hundred and fifty feet in length ; looked upon en masse tlie display was most effective, and the plants individu- ally were finely grown and extremely well flowered. The Arcade was tastefully prepared for their reception, the roof and back wall being lined inside with broadly striped drab and white canvas, put up so as to somewhat resemble an ordi- nary tent. In the class of 12 azaleas, Mr. Turner of Slough showed a beautiful group, consisting of the Bride, Duchesse and Due de Nassau, Variegata, Marie, Gledstanesi, Constan- tia rosea, Eulalie, Gem, Adolphe, and Grand Monarque. From Messrs. Ivery of Dorking came Flower of the Day, white, occasionally striped with red ; Criterion, Lord Raglan, Ardens, Vittata, Glory of Sunning Hill, Alba Illustrata, Marie, Bouquet de Flore, Amo3na, General Williams, and Alba cincta. Messrs. Fraser of Sea Bridge had small plants, Roi Leopold, Magnifica, a semi-double sort ; Rosy Circle, Au- rora, Criterion, Amoena, Louise Margottin, Trotteriana, Dou- ble White, Mrs. Trip, Barclayana, and Flora. In the class of new kinds, Mr. Turner showed well-bloomed plants of Duchesse de Nassau, a showy variety with large and striking salmon flowers, tinged in the upper petals with vio- let ; Gem, a tolerably well known rosy salmon sort : Virgin Queen, a good wliite ; Model, large rosy pink ; Roi Leopold, salmon, with crimson spots on the upper petals ; and Due de Nassau, large showy crimson. Messrs. Ivery and Fraser also showed in this class, as did likewise Messrs. Todman and Tcgg. Among tlicsc, Distinction, pale salmon, edged with white ; Princess Bathilda, purple, and Dr. Livingstone, finely shaped rosy pink, appeared to be most distinct. In a grouji of small standard azaleas shown by Messrs. Veitch the follow- ing appeared most worthy attention, viz.: Etendard do Flan- dres, white, occasionally striped with crimson ; Etoilc do Gand, salmon, broadly edged with white ; Rul)cns, glowing rosy salmon; Consolation, pink; Hortcnsc Vervaine, Herzog, Adolplic von Nassau, crimson ; and Bride, a white variety ; Messrs. Smith had Due d'Arcml)urg. Our own collection, comj)rising most of ili(> al)()vo varieties and many newer kinds, has flowered in great perfection, and been the adjniration of amateurs of tJiis su])erb flower. JUNE. 269 Among other varieties, flowering for the first time and con- spicuous for their excellence, are the following : Grata, a very deep scarlet flower, with very dark spots on the upper petals ; Comte de Hainault, double rose, very large, and con- spicuously spotted ; Correcta, rosy orange, very large ; Illus- tris Nova, in the way of Perryana, but finer ; Yariegata Su- perba, similar to Variegata, but more distinctly edged ; Flower of the Day, very large, white, striped with rose, petals thick, firm, and habit very fine ; Comte de Hainault, (Dalliere,) white, striped with carmine, fine form ; Alba cincta, similar to Criterion, but larger and better ; Brilliant, bright scarlet, fine. In conclusion, we must again commend the azalea to the attention of amateur cultivators. When well grown, taste- fully trained and well flowered, no plants excel them in daz- zling eiTect or in their adaptation to ordinary greenhouse treatment, or for effective display in a miscellaneous collec- tion. By judicious treatment they may be had in bloom from December to June. New Petunias. — Notwithstanding the introduction of many fine English and continental varieties, seedlings raised by our own cultivators fully equal if they do not supass them. Mr. Dooge, recently gardener to C. Copeland of "Wyoming, has sent us two or three of his own raising which surpass any we have seen of the single blotched sorts. The flowers are large, well shaped, and conspicuously marked, while the habit is robust and good. We shall give descriptions of them in a future number. 625. Aristolochia arborea Linden. Tree Aristolochia. (Aristolochiaceae.) New Grenada. A stove plant ; growing six or eight feet high -, with brownish arctic flowers ; increased by cuttings; grown in lisht rich soil. Bot. Mag., 18o2, pi. 5295 A somewhat remarkable species, growing erect, to the height of six or eight feet, with very large leaves, two feet or more long, and numerous singular shaped and curiously colored flowers, which appear from the old stems. It was introduced by Mr. Linden, of Brussels, who made a present of the plant to the Royal Horticultural Society of London. {Bot. Mag., Feb.) 270 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. 626. Clerodendron calamitososum Linn. Hurtful Clero- DENDRON. Java. A stove plant ; growin? two feet hiih ; with white flowers ; appearing in summer ; increased by cuttings; grown in \U,\\l peaty soil and loam. Hot. Mag., IStia, pi. 5294. " A modest, unobtrusive plant, with its pure white blossoms, as compared with the gorgeous scarlet-flowered species now more commonly cultivated in our stoves." Though having nothing remarkable to recommend it, its neat white flowers, distributed in panicles at the ends of the shoots, will make it acceptable in a large collection. (^Bot. Mag., Feb.) 627. Maxillaria venusta Lindl. Graceful Maxillaria. (Orchidaceae.) New Grenada, A stove orchid ; with white flowers. Bot. Mag., 1832, pi. 5296. A charming plant, with very delicate white flowers, touched with yellow in the centre, with two crimson dots upon the lobes. It is a beautiful species. (^Bot. Mag., Feb.) 628. Crocus ochroleucus Boiss. et Gail. Cream-colored Crocus. (Irideae.) A half hardy bulb ; growing four inches high ; with cream-colored flowers ; appearing in spring ; increased by offsets ; grown in light sandy soil. Bot. Mag., 1862, pi. 5297. Recent researches in the East, by M. Boissier, have added six new species of crocus to our catalogue, and among wliich is the present very elegant and delicate one. It was thought that the labors of the late Rev. Mr. Herbert had exhausted the subject ; but it appears new additions are yet to be made. The flowers are cream-colored, with a yellow eye ; whether liardy or not is not stated, but it probably is. It is a very line acquisition. 629. Iris longipetala Herb. Long-petaled Iris. (Indea;.) California. A hiirdy or \u\\( liiirdy plant; growing two feet liii;h ; wilh blue and wtiito striped Ilowcrs ; ttppciirinu in Hprint ; increased by ollatta. Hot. .Miuj , 18ii2, pi 5-9y. This is one of two new species of iris, detected by the naturalists of Captain Bccchy's voyage, in California, both very distinct from any other kinds of this cxiensivc genus. One is the I. Douglasiana Herb., and the present species, I. longipetala. It flowered in the Horticultural Society's gar- JUNE. 271 deu at Chiswick last summer. The flowers are very beauti- ful ; the inner petals erect, and of an exquisite lavender blue, the outer ones white, and regularly barred with the same tint. It proved quite hardy, and, with a little protection, will probably be hardy with us. It is a highly ornamental plant. (^Bot. Mag-., Feb.) 630. Leea coccinea Planch. Scarlet -flowered Leea. (Ampelide£e.) Java ? A hothouse pliint ; srowins two feet high ; with scarlet flowers; appearing in spring; increased by cuttinijs; grown in loam, leal mould, and sand. 13ot. Mag., l8j:i, pi. 3^99. A very handsome plant, with the habit of an aralia, though more neat and compact, under which name it is cultivated in some collections, with reddish stems, and compact cymes of rich scarlet flowers. It is remarkable for its profuse blooming habit, young plants a foot high being covered with blossoms. It is supposed to be a native of Java. (^Bot. Mag., Feb.) 631. Stanhopea occulata Lindl. Eyed Stanhopea. (Orchidese.) Mexico. A warm greenhouse rrchid ; with lemon-colored, spotted flowers; grown in pots. Bot. Mag., 1662, pi. 530U. An old and well known plant, long cultivated in many col- lections of orchids, but still one of the most powerfully fra- grant and handsome species. The flowers are very large, and profusely dotted all over with brownish red. It is variable in the coloring of its flowers, which are usually lemon colored, but occasionally nearly white. (^Bot. Mag., March.) 632. LiGULARiA Kjempferi, var. aureo maculata. K^mp- fer's Golden-spotted Ligularia. (Compositee.) China. Syn. Farfugium Grande Lindl. This is the very showy, variegated-foliaged plant, now so well known as Farfugium grande, sent home by Mr. Fortune in 1856. It does not seem to have flowered so early in Eng- land as in American collections ; for Dr. Hooker states that the plants at Kew flowered last autumn, while ours flowered abundantly in the fall of 1860. It is the old plant described by Keempfer. When well grown it is one of the finest variegated-foliaged plants. {Bot. Mag., March.) 272 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. 633. loCHROMA GRANDIFLORUM Benth. LaRGE - FLOWERED locHROMA. (Solaneae.) Peru. A hothouse plant ; growing two feet hi?h ; with rich purple flowers ; appearing in winter ; increased by cuttings; grown in peat and loam. Hot. Mag., InUa, pi. 5301. A very handsome species, with very large, rich purple flow- ers, which appear in pendent clusters from the axils of the leaves. The foliage is rather large and coarse, but the abundance of its blossoms, and their deep coloring, compen- sate for this defect. (^Bot. Mag., March.) 634. Dendrobidm Lowii Lindl. Mr. Low's Dendrobium. (Orchideae.) Borneo. A stove orchid ; with jellow and crimson flowers. Bot. Mag., 1S62, pi. 5303. " A splendid and remarkable new species, found on a mountain on the northwest coast of Borneo, at an elevation of 3,000 feet, and introduced and flowered in England in November, 1861. The flowers are produced in dense racemes, seven together, and are fully two inches in diameter, of a charming yellow, set off in a striking manner by six red lines on the lip, with crimson fringes." (^Bot. Mag., March.) 635. Anguria Warscewiczii Hort. Warscewiczii's Angu- rea. (Cucurbitacese.) Panama. A hothouse climber; growing several feet high; with scarlet flowers; appearing in winter; in- creased by cuttings ; grown in light rich soil. Bot. Mag., 1862, pi. A rather remarkable cucurbitaceous plant, recommended as deserving of cultivation on the rafters of a warm stove, " where it produces its brilliant scarlet flowers in the middle of winter." The leaves are large and trifoliate, and the flow- ers are small, round, and appear in clusters on the end of long stems, six inches or more in length, which appear at the axils of the leaves. It is a new species, supposed to have been introduced by Warscewicz, but dried specimens have been sent to Dr. Hooker from Panama. It is a very brilliant flowered climbing plant. {Bot. Mag., March.) DiANTiius Veusciiaffkltii. — This new hybrid has recently flowered, and proves to be a really beautiful plant. It will undoubtedly prove to be perfectly hardy, under ordinary gar- den cultuie. JUNE. ^ 273 ARBORICULTURAL NOTICES. More new Japan Trees. — The Japan trees introduced by Messrs. Fortune and Veitcli, botanical collectors, are now being offered for sale by Mr. Standisli and Messrs. Veitch & Son, to whom the seeds and plants were forwarded. Many of these acquisitions were described in our last volume ; but the following are additional to such as we have described : — Pinus Koraiensis, (Siebold). A long-leaved species with beautifully glaucous foliage, and will be a valuable addition to our hardy ornamental pines. The cones are large and highly ornamental. It is found growing in great abundance in the northern parts of Japan, and is recommended as being PERFECTLY HARDY, and able to withstand the severest of Euro- pean winters. Retinospora lycopodioides. Of dwarf-sized habit, with fine dark green foliage and spreading branches, and forms a very distinct and interesting plant. It is perfectly hardy. It re- ceived a medal from the Royal Horticultural Society in July last. Thuja pygmaea. A perfectly hardy Japanese species, re- markable for its exceedingly dwarf habit. Its beautiful dark green foliage forms a cushion-like tuft, giving it a most dis- tinct and novel appearance, and rendering it one of the pret- tiest of dwarf conifers. Thuja (Biota) falcata, (Siebold). A Japan species of the orientalis class. It is a plant of very neat foliage, and ex- ceedingly upright and pyramidal in its growth! This per- fectly hardy variety is employed in large quantities by the Japanese for forming hedges, for which purpose its close com- jiact habit renders it most suitable. Retinospora pisifera variegata. A variety of pisifera with beautifully wliite variegated foliage. Thujopsis lastevirens. This exquisitely beautiful little Jap- anese evergreen has reached Messrs. Yeitch in the form of a small living and perfectly healthy plant. That it is a Thu- jopsis, the peculiar condition of the foliage seems to show, even in the absence of fruit, which has not been seen. It is described by Mr. Veitch as a dwarf growing plant ; habit VOL. xxvin. — NO. VI. 18 274 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. erect and bushy ; foliage of a very light green. To us it looked at first like some erect woolly lycopod, and we almost doubted whether it was a conifer at all until the white spaces on the under side of the leaves, by which Thujopsis is known, caught the eye. Planera acuminata. A noble deciduous tree found near Yeddo, by Mr. Veitch, 90 to 100 feet high, with a remarka- bly straight stem. In aspect it resembles an elm. It is con- sidered one of the most useful timber trees of Japan. Pyrus coronaria. — This native species of the apple, grow- ing abundantly in the Middle States, is one of the handsom- est of our early blooming shrubs. It is of dwarfish growth, with the foliage of a wild apple, and the flowers, which are large and of a beautiful rose color, clothe the branches, giving it a delightful and elegant appearance. Stuartia pentagtnia has proved quite hardy the past win- ter, which, though not severe, was a sufiicient trial for this ; showing its perfect adaptation to our nortliern climate. If as beautiful as has been described in our last volume, it will be a most valuable acquisition. The Lilacs. — So common is the lilac in every garden that a prejudice exists against its introduction into many collec- tions of shrubs. However this may hold good in regard to the old variety, it certainly cannot with the newer sorts, which are of better habit, more abundant bloomers, and quite varied in color. Few shrubs make more show than the Saugeana, Rothmagensis, and Stcrncreesii. Emodi is also very distinct, growing quite erect and symmetrical, with very dark flowers; it does not sucker like tlic old lilac. Prince Notgcr is also distinct, being of upright growth, with handsome foliage and nearly white flowers in very large spikes. Our collection of some ten or fifteen kinds has been exceedingly fine, and wc commend this neglected shrub to the attention of amateur planters. The new Pyruses are fine acquisitions to this showy class of 8hrul)s ; P. coccinea is very dark, and P. ^Mwrloosii is rose, elegantly edged with white; others are of difierent shades of rose and scarlet. JUNE. 275 (i^neral |l;0tices. Culture of Vallota purpurea. — The treatment of this plant is the same as the treatment of Agapanthus umbeilatu? in every respect; and the treatment of botli is very nearly if not the same as the treatment of a pot Tom Thumb geranium the year round, only that Tom would stand more heat with less harm than the Vallota. As for the size of pot, small bulbs of Vallota require little pots, as No. 60's; half-grown bulbs to be in 48's, and full-grown ones to be in No. 32-pots. Vallota never goes to rest And is very thirsty in summer; and young bulbs will grow and increase in size in one half the time if they were planted out in warm borders when the bedding-out is finished at the end of May, and to be taken up with the bedding plants in October. That is the sure way to get bouncing bulbs of Vallota, and of Sprikelia or Amaryllis formosissima, in the shortest time from the smallest fry of offset bulbs. The Vallota blooms from June to October — that is, some of the bulbs will flower in June, some in July, and some in August and September. — [Cottage Gardener.) CoLEUs Verschaffeltii. — That this is a first-rate plant of its kind I think all will admit who have seen it grown ; and that it will prove an ef- fective exhibition plant during the coming season I am sure ; yet some ex- hibitors hesitate about growing it, because they say that " it will not tell ; that it is a plant as easily propagated as a verbena, and as easily grown as a cabbage." Now, I think this is to be regretted, inasmuch as it is a fine- looking dark-leaved plant. The groups one sees exhibited have too many green things among them ; beautiful and decorative as they are, still there is a deadness and want of brilliancy about them. At our shows here in Manchester the most beautiful leaved plant in cultivation is seldom exhib- ited on account of its being common. I allude to Cissus discolor; a good plant of this and the above would I am sure vastly improve collections of fine-foliaged plants. One purpose flower-shows serve is to please those who frequent them; and I venture to say that eight out of ten persons who visit exhibitions would prefer seeing a good plant of Cissus discolor or Coleus Verschaffeltii, though not worth 11., to even the stately Theophrasta imperialis, although the latter might be worth 20/. I am not complaining of exhibitors not growing these things ; the remedy lies in another direc- tion, and I think it possible that these deservedly popular collections may be much improved by the introduction of a few showy plants such as those just named. — {Gard. Chron.) Cannas and Caladiums. — Of the ornamental-leaved plants now com- ing into use, in flower gardening arrangements, as supplementary to beds of flowers, and imparting a varied and somewhat tropical aspect to the sit- uations in which they are introduced, the best of those which have as yet been tried in this country appear to be found amongst the cannas and 276 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. caladiums. The most worthy among the former prove to be C. Annsei, C. giffantea, and C. zebrina. The best of the latter by far for this object, and the best planted near water, is C. esculentum. Such is the experience of Mr. Fleming, of Clieveden, who has also pointed out that the most suit- able places for the introduction of plants of this character are undulatory surfaces of the pleasure ground, or the neighborhood of water or amongst miscellaneous beds of American plants, rather than in geometrical flower gardens. The beds for these foliage plants should be of some simple form, so as to prodnce a definite mass, the soil should be rich, to encourage free development, and the beds should be entirely occupied by foliage plants, and not surrounded by flowers. Both the caladium and the cannas are easily kept during winter in any out of the way dryish place, not subject to frost, and are prepared by being started in gentle heat in spring. The cannas are found very useful as in- door decoration plants for a while before being taken for bedding out. Here is another good hint from Mr. Fleming's papers on this subject, re- cently printed in the Florist. The better sorts of rhododendron being gen- erally grown with plenty of " breathing room," a few of the Variegated Negundo, and of the Red Virginian Maple, introduced into the spaces be- tween, produce a capital eflfect, inasmuch as they are found to add much to the interest of the rhododendron beds after the flowers of the latter are past, and their own particular features are well brought out by the abundant full green of the rhododendrons. — ( Gard. Chron.) SiKEIM AND BhOTAN RHODODENDRONS UNDER GlASS. — When thc main range of hothouses was erected here, I had a space left amongst the shade and offices on the back wall for a house to be roofed with glass, for retarding or keeping plants longer in flower than they otherwise would be doing in the summer months. This house or shed is about 76 feet in length, 12 feet in breadth, and about 18 feet in height, and is not heated. I find that the Sikkim and Bhotan rhododendrons are quite at home in it, although they seldom get a glimpse of sun heat. In the beginning of April several of the Bhotan seedling rhododendrons showed flower buds, and I then introduced tiiem into a plant house, where they flowered beautifully ; one variety having white flowers with a yellowish tint at the bottom. The blooms individually were as large as those of Edgwortlii and as sweet scented. Nutalli has also flowered very finely. Unfortunately the greater part of the Bhotan seedlings came here unnamed. All the iSikkim varieties that I have are named. Dalhousianum flowers freely with me every year, as do also Edgwortlii, Maddeni, and virgatum. Those that have not yet flowered arc Wigiitii, fulgens, Campylo carpum, Ilodgsoni, Campbelli, Thotiisnni, Auckhmdi. argentcum, and Falconeri. The plants arc mostly small, and none of them are grnt>od ; thoy stood in tlie back honse just inentionod in thc severe winter of 18(>l, and were not in the least injured. Thc only extra attention paid to their culture is in the growing time, wlien they are kept well watered at liic root and syringed overhead. — (Gard. Chron.) JUNE. 277 Fuchsia.— Probably there is no popular flower so ill represented in our public exhibitions as the Fuchsia, notwithstandinjr that it is naturally a plant of extreme elegance and beauty, and a great favorite with all amongst cultivators of every class. What we see exhibited in the majority of cases, consist of long straggling gawky bushes, half trees, mis-shapen, and lop- sided, with a very unequal distribution of flowers, the latter, especially when at all abundant, being altogether deficient in size and quality. As usually produced fuchsias are a blemish rather than otherwise in our exhi- bitions, and a never failing source of trouble and annoyance to judges as well as to exhibitors, as witness the discussion on the subject which took place during the past year. We now and then, indeed, hear of a few well managed plants appearing at some country show, but such cases are rare ; and certainly the metropolis has hitherto had nothing to boast of in this re- spect. We trust, however, the case is not hopeless. The mistake which is made consists in, showing old plants instead of young ones. Fuchsias six feet high, if well managed, may be all very well — a few of them — in a home conservatory, but brought out to an exhibition and staged half a dozen together to form a "collection," they are anything but calculated to excite admiration, and the greater the number of such collections brought together in competition, the further removed from adnii- ration are the feelings they give rise to. When there is added to this large unwieldy size, as often happens, a total want of symmetry or proportion in the plants, the case is so much the worse ; for when wanting in symmetry, whether it be a large specimen or a small one, a fuchsia is wanting in one of its greatest beauties. In a plant so easily managed as this is, the exhi- bition of specimens which have not this quality of symmetry is moreover anything but creditable to the professional skill of the exhibitor. Even when well cultivated and not objectionable otherwise, the grenadier speci- mens we have been referring to are so ill-adapted for removal from place to place, that the sooner they are banished from flower shows the better. No doubt it is this growing and too common practice of exhibiting fuchsia trees instead of dwarf neat well-grown bushes, which keeps away from our shows the many interesting novelties year after year produced, until their novelty has passed away, and with it half their charm. Except when admissible as single specimens, or for some other special reason, no fuchsia should be tolerated at a flower show after it is a year old. In other words, exhibition plants should always be grown from cuttings of the current year. It is quite within the bounds of possibility to produce from such plants handsome and thoroughly furnished specimens which would put to shame the majority of the plants which one generally meets with. Those who cannot do it may depend on it they have a lesson still to learn. There is even now time, though the season is far advanced, to pro- duce good flowering plants by the late autumn months ; but for our sum- mer shows it would of course be necessary to commence some time earlier in the year. Let us see what would be some of the advantages of following this plan, beyond the by no means inconsiderable ones of furnishing far handsomer 278 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. subjects of exhibition, and avoiding most of the difficulties of transit from the garden to the show-ground. P^irst, then, the flowers would be infinitely superior in quality. Every cultivator must know that he would obtain much finer blossoms from a young freely-grown plant than he could get out of a woody stem, three, or four, or five years old, and it is the quality of the in- dividual flowers, their size and substance, and the bright flush of color inci- dental to youthful vigor, which makes all the diflference between a first- class and an inferior specimen. Second : the new and superior varieties would have an earlier opportunity of appearing in public. Even the novel- ties of the current year, if "let out" in good time, and in a satisfactory state as to health and strength, might many of them make their debut in the course of the season ; but varieties of the previous year would have no ob- stacle whatever but want of merit, to prevent them from winning public approval. Third: the number of exhibitors, and consequently of persons taking interest in the maintenance of exhibitions, would probablv be in- creased, for but little accommodation would be required to grow the plants, and little difficulty would be experienced in transporting and staging them. We repeat then, that no fuchsia plant should be tolerated at a flower show after it is a year old, except it be admissible as a specialty, or as a single specimen of high cultivation. For the ordinary purposes of home decoration too, young plants like those referred to are far superior to older ones ; though a few symmetrically grown pyramids, and here and there a well balanced standard, may also be found useful, especially when large conservatories have to be kept furnished with flowers. If the managers of exhibitions and the framers of prize schedules, both metropolitan and provincial, would keep this desirable object, namely, the reformation of Exhibition Fuchsias, in view, and would uniformly work to- gether to effect it, the reform would soon be accomplished ; for if the awarding of prizes to the ill-conditioned samples now so often produced were rendered iuipossible by the conditions of the prize list, they would no longer continue to offend the public eye, but would be consigned to the rubbish heap, and their place supplied by others from which the cultivator might, with ordinary skill, hope to derive some credit. The classes we suggest for general adoption are these : — Groups of 6, 9, or 12 varieties, from cuttings of the current year, in 8 or 10-inch pots. Groups of 3 standard plants, the stems not less than 2 feet high. Single specimens of standard plants, with stems 2 to 3 feet high. Single specimens of pyramidal plants, 4 to (i foot high, and not less than 3 feet in diameter at tlie pot. — (Gnrd. Chron.) Soil foii Amkkican Plants. — Many years ago a writer on what is called practical gardening addressed himself to the subject of American plants, in doing which lie undertook to inform his readers liow peat could be cheaply formed artificially. He expatiated on the beauty of such plants, the wonderful improvement made in their flowers, and the ease with which anybody could grow tiicm who had access to good peat. But as many per- JUNE. 279 sons are unable to procure the article, he ventured to enlighten them on the art of making it for themselves. Take, he said, leaves, the decayinj[T refuse at the bottom of a woodstack, or of ditches and hedgerows, old tan, any garden rubbish; lay it in a heap to undergo further decomposition; after a time work it well with sand and loam, and then you have a mixture as good as peat from Bagshot or Wimbledon or Woking. With these recommendations let us request our readers to contrast the statements in a leading article of last week's Gardeners^ Ghronicle, (p. 307,) full of the wise counsels of long experience and sound scientific knowledge. Speaking of such a compost as that just described, the writer tells us that he should as soon think of potting plants in arsenic. And he is undoubt- edly right. Anybody, in turning over such a heap after a few weeks of mild damp weather, will see here and there tiny streaks resembling bits of cotton wool, or films of cobweb. What are they but the insidious enemy from which death or incurable disease is about to spring ? Every one of those tender threads carries mischief, and is a breeder of destruction among the crops to which it is applied. Even if the dangerous cobweb is not vis- ible be sure it is there, only in a form to fine for human vision. You will know it by the fatal consequences it entails. Some twenty years ago a zealous amateur, whose ambition soared higher than his purse, unluckily, for cheapness sake, took to growing rhododen- drons in the mischievous material described by " M. J. B." He obtained one spring some nice young plants from several nurseries, treated them with the greatest care, and was delighted at their healthy growth. But in the second spring something was the matter with his bushes. They flow- ered well, but made weak after-shoots ; very few blossom-buds formed ; by degrees a leaf or two here and there turned yellow and withered; and by the second autumn the plants were for the most part out of health. In the succeeding spring matters were worse ; mischief made progress but growth not; small twigs now shrivelled, a branch or two here and there died and turned red ; by another spring the case was hopeless. Upon taking the plants up it was found that the roots were dead at the point, and had made no growth; when broken they were brown, and the smallest possible white specks were found on the broken surface. This was an expensive experi- ment, and would have been still more unlucky had not our amateur con- vinced himself that he could not grow American plants in his land, and so discontinued his attempts. There are only two ways in which leaves, bits of stick or rotten wood, twigs and similar refuse can be safely used. One way is to leave them^ in a heap till they are thoroughly rotted down, then to sift them through a fine sieve, rejecting the undecayed fragments, and again rotting down the sift- ings. The other is to char them ; we do not mean to burn them ; but to reduce them by heat and the exclusion of air to the state of charcoal dust : a process by no means so easy as may be supposed, but to be carried out by any experienced gardener after a few failures, which are sure to occur at first. And this is, in our opinion, by far the better method of the two ; it is speedy, at once effectual, and destroys the eggs of every sort of insect. 280 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. The former, on the other hand, is very slow, often the reverse of effectual, as we all know is more likely to invite the deposit of eggs than to destroy them, and does not possess one single advantage over charring except that any booby can do it. — (Gard. Chron.) §m^ of tlje Pontlj. Simple Preventive from the Ravages of Mice. — Our correspon- dent, Mr, Geo. Jaques, thus alludes to the destruction of trees the past winter by the mice, and a simple means of preventing their ravages : — " Immense damage has been done to the apple-orchards of this county, during the past winter, by mice. This destruction of property is the more to be deplored, since the preventive is so simple and sure. For years the mice have not injured my own trees in the least. My method of defence against them, I regard as infallibly efficacious. Early in November 1 hoe or spade up around each tree a cone of earth, covering the collar of the tree five or ten inches deep, so that there can be no cavity under the snow-crust dose to the trunk. Hence, it is impossible for mice to approach that partic- ular point upon the tree where they perpetrate their mischief.. JVever in one single instance has this preventive disappointed me, and I have prac- ticed it over ten years. — Truly yours, Geo. Jaques, Worcester, May 15, '62." ^ondin. WORCESTER COONTT HORTICULTURAL. We continue our notice of the proceedings of this association, which contain more reliable and valuable information than is generally comprised in similar reports. The discussion respecting apples is especially interest- ing, and it is with much satisfaction that we find the Duchesse d'Oldenburg, a fine early apple, commended by Mr. Colton, and recommended by tiie society as being worthy of cultivation. The weekly meetings of the society have been well attended, and the display of plants and flowers very fine. We have only room for a condensed statement of the discussions, which were, in substance, as follows: APPLES. Discussion. — Trustee J. D. Wheeler of Grafton, in the chair. S. H. Colton, from the committee to report a list of apples suitable for cultivation in Worcester county, isubiiiitUMl thi; following result of their deliberations: Ducheeae d'Oldtinbiirg, Bough, Williams's, Porter, Gruvonstein, Mother, llolden Pippen, llulibardstuu Nonsuch, Tolman Sweeting, li. I. Greening, Baldwin, Ruxbury Russet. JUNE. 281 The committee remarked that, " from so many varieties of great ex- cellence as we have among us, they find it very difficult to select the small number (12) called for; and had it been desired to propose a much larger list, it would have been an easier task. The list offered embraces a suitable proportion of apples, ripening in succession from August to May, and includes a choice variety well suited to this locality." On motion of J. V. Allen, Esq., it was voted to take up the list and act upon the several varieties seriatim. 1. Duchesse d'Oldenburg. Mr. Colton, of the committee, characterized this apple as similar to the " River," or what is sometimes called the "August." It is an enormous bearer, and is desirable in every way. It is especially valuable for cooking. In reply to an inquiry what he thought of the Early Harvest, compared with the Duchesse, Mr. Colton remarked that the Early Harvest does not bear well — it is rather run out. On the other hand, Mr. Edward Earle said that he got very good crops from the Early Harvest S. S. Foster thought it a desirable variety with clay subsoil and high culture. Recurring to the River apple, O. B. Hadwen said that it was injuriously affected by black spots. Gov. Lincoln has three trees. He has had no success with them for the past three years. The fruit has black spots and cracks badly. The soil is underdrained. S. H. Colton has grafted the Duchesse d'Oldenburg upon other stocks. It is the largest apple for one so early — that he knows. It is full as large as the " River." Duchesse d'Oldenburg was unanimously adopted. 2. Bough. Mr. H. R. Keith knows of a tree which grows in a pasture, receiving no care, and yet yields as largely as others upon the same place that are thoroughly cultivated. It bears excellent fruit. Edward Earle esteemed it a splendid apple. Adopted. 3. Williams'. On motion of S. S. Foster, adopted, nem. con. 4. Porter. On motion of J. F. Allen, adopted unanimously. 5. Gravenstein. Mr. Keith inquired at what period it ripened. S. H. Colton replied that it was anywhere from the 1st to the 15th of September. Adopted. 6. Mother. Edward Earle raises them. Thinks that they decay if not picked seasonably. O. B. Hadwen— When perfect it is a fine fruit. But it is liable to perforation by an insect. Although upon the committee, he should not of himself have recommended the Mother. J. F. Allen thinks it very desirable. S. S. Foster — Picks them in November, and they keep until January. It is an excellent fruit. When picked at the right time, it is better in December than in November. Adopted. 7. Holden Pippen. S. H. Colton — It is shaped like the Porter. It does well in the vicinity of Worcester. H. R. Keith — It does poorly in Grafton ; would not call it of the 1st or 2d, and scarcely of the 3d quality. It is an ugly-growing tree, having high limbs and a thick head. S. S. Foster could not think the tree described by Mr. Keith could be the Holden Pippen. In his neighborhood it grows very well with a fair, spreading head. O. B. Hadwen— It was discussed in committee as a very profitable fruit for mar- 282 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. ket. It grows, as Mr. Keith sa3's, straight up in the air, and gets bushy. In reply to an inquiry, would he not prefer the Lyscom ? Mr. H. said no. The Holden Pippen seems to come when there is no other to fill the gap. Mr. J. F. Allen moved to substitute the Lyscom. The motion was lost. S. S. Foster suggested that nothing but Gilliflower would take the place of it. It ripens after the Porter, and, as observed by Mr. Hadwen, supplies a void that would otherwise be hard to fill. Adopted. 8. Hubbardston Nonsuch. Adopted, without debate. 9. Tolman Sweeting. S. H. Colton characterized it as the best keeper for a sweet apple, within his knowledge. Edward Earle considered it bet- ter than the Pound Sweeting. Adopted. 10. [R. I. Greening. Mr. Edwin Draper thought that we had better raise the Western Greening. He did not believe (and in this opinion he was emphatically sustained by Edward Earle and the chair), that the R. I. Greening could be successfully grown this side of Providence Plantations. Per contra, — O. B. Hadwen has seen as fine specimens upon trees of Mr. John C. Ripley as could be found anywhere. S. H. Colton said that the true R. I. Greening is of a bright straw color, shaded with green. It is also quite flat, with a disproportionate circumference. He had no opinion of western apples. Mr. H. Keith — If he had ten apples, would want nine of them to be R. I. Greenings. Gov. Lincoln had seen the R. I. Greening of excellent quality, in the garden of Col. G. W. Richardson. As de- scribed by Mr. Colton, they are of a straw, or golden color, upon a green ground. After a slight additional discussion, the R. I. Greening was adopted. IL Baldwin. Adopted by acclamation. 12. Roxbury Russet. Adopted nem. con. And the list was coaipleted. Mr. Colton also submitted the subjoined supplementary list of 12 sorts, recommended to those desirous of an additional variety : — 1. Sopsavine ; 2. Red Astrachan; -3. Golden Sweeting; 4. Fameuse; 5. Lyscom; 6. Cogswell; 7. Peck's Pleasant; 8. Ladies' Sweeting; 9. Nonsuch; 10. Yellow Bellflower, on warm, rich soil; 11, Hunt's Rus- set; 12. Golden Russet. Mr. Keith moved the adoption of this list. Gov. Lincoln would like first to know what was intended by the adoption of the list. It must not be forgoiton that some responsibility was attached to the recommendation of such men as Messrs. Colton, Hadwen, and otln^rs around him. lie thought it better to take less decisive action, and therefore would move to amend the motion of Mr. Keith to the simple effect that the society propose the "supplementary list" as a list of apples worthy of cultivation. Mr. Keith accepted the amendment, whereupon the motion was adoptrd. NoTK. — In tiie la.st report, in which the 12 best varieties of jjcars for domestic use were discu.sscd, Mr. Edwin Draper was made to say that the Flemish Beauty rotted at the core. This, he informs us, is a mistake. He did not mean to be so understood. What he said was that his pears of this variety gave him some trouble by being blown from the trees, often JUNE. 283 being cracked by the fall, and sometimes cracked on the tree. Still he would recommend the Flemish Beauty as worthy of a place among the twelve recommended by the committee. GRAPES. Discussion. — V. P. George Jaques in the chair. Dr. R. Woodward de- sired to state, as a member of the late committee on apples, that he was unable to meet with the committee but once. At that time he expressed his non-concurrence in the conclusion to which his colleagues appeared to come. In justice to himself, as he dissented from their decision, he desired to present a list which he should have offered as a minority report, had he been present at the last meeting, viz: — River, Williams's, Pomme Water, Gravenstein, Porter, R. I. Greening, Yellow Bellflower, Baldwin, Hereford- shire Pearmain, Ladies' Sweeting, Roxbury Russet, Northern Spy. The committee on gi apes, through Dea. Butman, submitted the subjoined report : The committee appointed at our last weekly meeting, to recom- mend a list of desirable varieties of native grapes for cultivation in our climate, have attended to that duty, and respectfully report that they select- ed the following varieties as, in their opinion, worthy of general cultivation ; being hardy, and ripening in succession from about September 1st to the 1st of October: 1. Hartford Prolific, Diana, Concord, and Delaware. All of which is submitted. B. Butman, per order of committee. Upon motion, the report was accepted. On motion of Dr. Woodward, it was voted to discuss the list separately. Hartford Prolific. Dr. Woodward would like to know in reference to this and all other grapes, their period of comparative maturity. Does the Hartford Prolific ripen as early as the Isabella? Edwin Draper has raised the H. P. for two years. Esteems the fruit as good as the Concord. One great drawback is its falling off". It ripens invariably as early as the 15th of September. Dea. Butnam said that the committee headed the list with the H. P. on account of its hardiness, great yield, and early ripening. It wants to be picked with care. He esteemed both Concord and Diana superior to the Isabella, with which comparison had been suggested. In fact, he would raise the Hartford Prolific, Diana, and Concord, in any small garden. The chair has not grown them, but has seen Mr. Grout's. It ripens early, but drops. He does not think its flavor equal to that of the Concord, which he considers its superior in every way. This tendency to drop off" is a serious objection, for with it you cannot get a handsome cluster. The question being taken, Hartford Prolific was adopted. Diana. James F. Allen thinks it so tender as to require covering in winter. The Concord does not need to be covered. Dea. Butman said that the Diana wants a warm exposure and high cultivation. He never had so good a crop of grapes as last autumn. His vines are laid down and covered with pine boughs. He has not yet removed the covering. Edwin Draper said that he had just uncovered his vines. The chairman has raised Diana and Isabella side by side ; can see; no difference between them in point of hardiness, but they are not to be compared as to quality ; thinks that we must adopt the method of culture in vineyards, if we would 284 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTUEE. raise grapes, i. e. train them to stakes three or four feet high, or else hori- zontally upon a trellis, which would be the better way. Wm. T. Merrifield thought that a solid wall would be preferable to stakes or an open trellis. The wall emits warmth. All our grapes require shelter and warmth. The Black Hamburg has been raised in the open air against high walls. The chair said that one extraordinary fact might be stated : — On this side of California no European grapes can be raised, while there is scarcely a limit to their production in California. Dea. Butman considered the Diana good enough. It is decidedly our best native grape. Wm. T. Merrifield re- maiked upon one great difficulty in grape culture. The wood is not ripened enough. You cannot have good grapes without sound wood. A vote being taken, the Diana was unanimously adopted. Concord. Dr. Woodward wished to know if it always ripens ? Dea. Butman and Edwin Draper could ripen it. The chair would prefer it to any of the new kinds. Dr. Woodward — The Isabella will ripen unfailingly in Northampton, when it scarcely ever does in Worcester. He had suc- ceeded in raising them at the Lunatic Hospital, against a high wall, for several years, but yet they were never so good as at Northampton. He had served as chairman of a committee of this society, upon " all the fruits,' in a season of average temperature, when the committee unanimously de- cided that the Concord grapes at the exhibition were none of them ripe. Other gentlemen expressed their opinions very briefly, mainly in favor of the Concord, when, upon taking the question, the Concord was adopted. Delaware. The chair does not believe that it can be raised in the open air of Worcester. S. H. Colton has had it for seven or eight years and is also doubtful of the possibility of raising it out of doors in this locality. Alex. Marsh said that Mr. Moore of Charlton considers it the best grape that he has. The chair said that, if he was going to raise them, he should train them close to a wall, without a trellis. In 1857, he raised five bushels of grapes. Dr. Woodward has seen Diana and Rebecca ripen upon a board fence that had been covered with coal tar. To an inquiry about the comparative period of ripening of the Delaware and Rebecca, Jas. T. Allen replied that he had ripened Rebecca before the Delaware. The two grapes are pretty much the same size. H. R. Keith said that Mr. Underwood, of Leicester, considered the Rebecca the best of the native grapes. S. S. Foster now moved, and, upon its second by Jona. Grout, it was voted that the Delaware be passed over for future consideration. STRAWBERRltS. Discussion. — V. P. J. M. Earle in the chair. The committee on strawberries, Edw;ird Earle, chairman, reported as fol- lows: The committee appointed last week to report the nauies of some of the most desirable kinds of strawberries for family use and the market, have attended to their duty and submit the subjoined list: Hovey's Seed- ling, Jenncy's Seedling, Jenny Lind, and Wilson's Albany. They esteem these the most popular and productive varieties under general cultivation. The Triompliu de Gand, a new variety, where known, is spoken of in the highest terms, and bids fair to stand at the head of the list. JUNE. 285 Much is said about high cultivation for the strawberry. It is of great importance, and will generally secure a good crop, even in a rather dry time. But light or poor soil is quite as sure to give an equally good crop, if kept regularly watered from the setting of the fruit until its maturity. In behalf of the committee, Edward Earle, Chairman. The report having been accepted, upon motion, it was voted to discuss the varieties recommended seriatim. Hovey's Seedling. D. Waldo Lincoln, Esq., supposed that no one would dispute the excellence or productiveness of this variety. J. M. Earle — But it has been bitterly disputed. D. W. Lincoln — Then they cannot have been the genuine Hovey. He was aware that there were spurious ones. J. M. Earle remembered being at Cincinnati, some years since, and finding that Hovey's Seedling brought a higher price than any other. At the period of his return home, through Philadelphia, the Hovey brought double the sum of any other variety. This was about the time of the sav- age attack upon Hovey's Seedling by Longworth. And yet but a little while after Hovey's Seedling took the one hundred dollar prize at Cincinnati, in spite of the influence of Longworth and also of local partiality. D. W. Lincoln- — Take it all in all, it is the best. People may prefer, for eating, some other especial variety, just as they would choose the Bartlett among pears, but Hovey's Seedling stands at the head. It will bear as full crops upon a given piece of land as any other. He has generally planted with a row of trees between the rows of strawberries. He once tried the experiment of planting the pistillates and staminates at least ten rods apart, and yet had a magnificent crop. They were perfectly fecundated. Hovey's Seed- ling was unanimously adopted. Jenney's Seedling. Edward Earle — It is about as well known as Hovey. J. M. Earle has seen it sharply criticised. It is a tart berry, although very handsome. O. B. Hadwen has raised it. It is rather acid. Get it thoroughly ripe, pick it a few hours before eating, and it will be satisfactory. He has found it more profitable for the market than Hovey. It is very good for preserves. D. W. Lincoln — It covers the ground perfectly, more than any other kind. It is a handsome fruit, but as acid as Wilson's Albany, and has a flavor that the Wilson has not. W. T. Merrifield — Is it very productive? His own experience was that it yielded poorly. O. B. HadAven — Raises strawberries for the market. Of course his object is to get large crops. Is perfectly content with Jenney's Seedling in that respect. D. W. Lincoln — It is productive. The flavor of the berries is, however, unequal. Jenney's Seedling was adopted. Jenny Lind. The two varieties already adopted are pistillates. Of course it will be understood that staminates must be planted with them. If the Early Virginia were larger, he would recommend it in prefer- ente to any other, but it is small, diminishing especially during the second year. Edward Earle — Has not raised the Jenny Lind, but has heard it well spoken of. O. B. Hadwen — Thinks it is not productive. It is, however, a fine fruit. Wm. T, Merrifield — Has raised them. Ques. by D. W. Lin- coln— What did you think of them ? Wm. T. Merrifield — I did not get 286 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. enough to enable me to form an opinion. A general laugh ensued, when, on motion of D. W. Lincoln, it was voted to pass over Jenny Lind. Wilson's Albany. Edward Earle has raised them ever since they were introduced into Worcester. Never had like success as with the Wilson. They want to be thoroughly ripe, however ; as dark as some cherries — say the Tartarian. S. V. Stone — If a person should take a plate of Wilson's first, and afterwards one of Hovey's, he will scarcely relish the latter. Thinks that the unfavorable opinion of the Wilson strawberry, adopted by so many, is owing to their not eating it ripe. Remembering the usual color of strawberries, they pick the Wilson too early, not waiting its perfect ma- turity. As to its productiveness, he has a bed 20 feet by 6, from which, last year, he picked 75 boxes. His vines were not winter killed. D. W. Lincoln — Mine were in patches here and there. Jenney's Seedling, in a similar exposure, is green enough. O. B. Hadwen — When it came out, sent to Wilson and procured 1000 plants. It is very productive of fruit. It should be cultivated in hills, as it is apt to push up little crowns around the central or parent vine. There is no mistake about it being profitable. D. W. Lincoln — Customers have requested me not to supply them with the Wilson. O. B. Hadwen — I will confess that it is not to my own taste. But I have raised them three years, and they sell readily. Have grown Scott's Seedling (now generally in demand), and find it more productive even than the Wilson. D. W. Lincoln — Never have seen any strawberry as productive as Scott's Seedling. Wilson's Albany was unanimously adopted. D. W. Lincoln called attention to the remarks about the Triomphe de Gand, made at the meeting of the Fruit Growers' Society of New York, and reported in the Horticulturist for March, [We regret that the society should recommend a fruit because it " sells readily," regardless of its quality. The object of such discussions is to select the good from the bad, and they accomplish but little if they fail to do this.] BROOKLYN HORTICDLTURAL. The Spring Show of this flourishing Society was held on Wednesday, April 23, and, according to the report, was a very successful aflTair. An account of the exhibition has been sent us, but as it only gives the names of the compelitois, without the names of the difflrcnt plants, it would alTonl but little information to our readers. The most successful ex- hibitors were Messrs. Menand of Albany, G. Messeberg of Williamsburg, Geo. Howe & Son and I. Buchanan & Son of Astoria. Mr. Monand ex- hibited some very beautiful specimens. Our correspondent, Mr. A. Chamberlain, had a fine and large display of his patent moss baskets, containing fruit trees and flowers grown entirely in chemicals. Tiicy received a special award. Mr. J. CadncHS of Flusliing exhibited a new double petunia, called Gen. M'Clellan, large, and beautiful, to which a special award was made. Messrs. Buchanan also cxiiibited a now seedling petunia. JUNE. 287 FOR JUNE. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. May has been unusually dry and warm and the season is nearly as far advanced as any year — at least 10 days in advance of 1861. Fruit and ' CHRONICLE. Window gardeners ought to be above "green fly." Still it is a melancholy fact that these flies do come sometimes, and that they are great nuisances ; sometimes on spring bulbs, if not watered properly ; sometimes on verbenas, if without sufiicient air ; on roses, if too dry ; perhaps I may say on everything, if not closely cared for. There is, however, one remedy so useable by ladies, and so perfectly free from any sort of annoyance, that my object to-day in writing of green fly is to suggest the use of Dumont's Insect Powder, sold everywhere in little elastic balls by chemists, and perfectly in- valuable for the destruction of these insects. So rapid and so sure is it in its work, wlicn once it has been dusted on the brandies infested by the flies, that I am quite debarred from using a popular Americanism, and saying that they " make tracks," since in point of fact the creatures vanish tracklessly, leaving no trace behind. The powder is itself quite harm- less, and should be dusted on as slightly as possible when the phmts are dry. To-day I name these things particuhirly because thc^y afford a means of really keeping the atmosphere of the |)lants in some degree moistcr than the dry air of our ru(jnis. The JULY. 321 moss that fills these stands sends up an unseen vapor — the roots are kept too well supplied with moisture, and thus if shaded only from driest rays of sunshine, plants brought in in blossom will stand for a long time. At the present time our stands are "filled" with a single plant ; one great white azalea, standing with drooping boughs and its lily-like blossoms, makes a more lovely picture than a dozen colors. Low- growing mosses, little ferns, cyclamens, and blue scillas are, for such, a ground work among the most appropriate. How to keep these things healthy ought not to be difficult. The grand thing for this is to provide a cover ! It is perfectly absurd the way in which people think of what they see their plants suffer, wholly forgetful of their acuter sufferings where given up to the tender mercies of housemaids and their brooms ; good housemaids doubtless cover up the furniture, but they are the last gardeners to whom I would trust my plants. Fancy the plants — groups of fragile flowers at the point of every spray — and fancy the covering, even though perhaps it is light, thrown over these and resting against or knocking off the petals ! The very first step taken towards making flowers last will I am sure be found in some- thing like Chinese lanterns. Great thin paper or transparent linen covers, made up on slender frames, and put over the stands each night like a large bell glass. There is always some slight change at night in the temperature of a room, and a plan like this equalizes and confines that air which sur- rounds the plants. It protects them from dust, and more than all it shelters them from the draughts that are prevalent in the early morning. This being arranged, a regular morning's task should be to see wliat plants require water, everything being watered al- ways with warm water. Azaleas in blossom should be daily watered, and sometimes it is practicable to bedew the foliage from the side away from the window, so as a little to refresh the foliage of the undergrowth, without letting water fall on the open blossoms. Sometimes, too, while a plant is blos- soming, there is a sort of gap between two sets of blossom ; with roses and azaleas this very often happens. Then the foliage and buds can have a thorough dewing. The cycla- VOL. XXVIII. — NO. vii. 21 322 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. mens, also, in which I so exceedingly delight, derive untold benefit from a proper washing every few days or so. The foliage looks charming when kept so fresh and clean, and a plant I had last November beginning then to blossom, has now got upwards of 30 buds and blossoms still ; the scent too becoming more and more delightful. It is a heavy trial, these said cyclamens : they ought to be close to the light ; and who can resist having them on the table ! However, if anything, they are prettiest by candle light, so it is possible to give them by day the full light they crave, and yet to enjoy them perfectly in the evening. Mine are watered every morning regularly, but never are allowed to be in the least sodden; being lightly potted, the water runs through quickly, and is instantly discontinued. Each plant I'eceives thus about a coffee cup full daily. These plants, liowever, are standing out, contrary to rule, in flower pots. Violets I find do best treated in exactly the same manner. Neither seem to bear being covered up, or having a steamy atmosphere. My cyclamens I should mention are all C. persicum ; the best has foliage a very little marbled, but the great fragrance I attribute a good deal to the healthiness of the jjlant at pres- ent, since at first it certainly w^as not sweet at all. My plants were obtained at Messrs. Hooper's, of Covent Garden, but I do not know if they have any especial strain. The scent ex- actly resembles that of a veiy delicate Icmon-scentcd gerani- um. It is not in the least like that of the more powerful perfume of some other kinds of cyclamens. There is something extremely charming to the mind of a window gardener in being able to })oiiit to some special plant, and U) declare she grew it. New beginners sometimes are, indeed, so tenacious that they quite look down upon buying even seedlings which are ready raised. Still this, by London people who have not got a hotbed or a heated seed-bed, or any sort of greenhouse, may fairly be louked upon quite as an advantage, in the case of tender annuals, or other seeds of this kind. I confess, notwithstanding, my sympathy is with tlic former class — it is so pleasant to have all tlic work oneself. Nor JULY. 323 shall I soon forget a box I had one spring, in which it seemed to me tliat every seed came np, and whicli stored my windows afterwards with many delightful flowers. The great thing of course is to sow such seeds as will bear pot culture, and to sow moreover what will do well in the place we live in. In London it seems to me that plants which grow up most quickly are those that answer best ; and then we have to bethink us of the sweet smelling things and also of those that remain long in blossom. In towns it is a blessing that people are not critical in re- gard of flowers, everything green and bright finds a most ready welcome, and hence the tangled balconies wreathed with dark trop^olums, and festooned by branches of coboeas and sweet peas, which look so fresh and gay. The seed sow- ing has two classes. There are the hardy annuals, which ought to be sown directly ; sweet peas, mignonette, minor convolvulus, white alyssum, tropasolums, asters, nemoph, a, Indian pinks, larkspurs, and stocks, all of which require pots of soil, not quite brimfull — the seeds to be scattered thinly, and to be covered about their own depth with some soil or cocoa stuff. Kept moist, but not watered overhead, these things come on well in a light and airy place. A frame on the leads, if there is no other spot for one, or a box in a win- dow, will bring them on very well, the great thing to rejoice in being a short and stumpy stature, to attain which advan- tage we must thin or prick off carefully. The more tender annuals are however the interest of this season. The exquisite Ipomoeas, with their bells of white and blue and rose and purple, which grow so quickly and blossom so profusely as to render themselves amongst the most gen- eral favorites, ought now to be sown in-doors. Last year I had quantities of these pretty flowers trained over wire stands and up beside some windows, and though they do best in a sunny aspect they still require to have a great deal of shade and water. The pleasantest plan of any is to have a wire frame or trellis filled up low down with shorter bushier plants, which screen, but do not very often mix with, the climbing things behind. 324 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. The Ipomoeas do best, if in 5-inch pots, when they are sown about five or six all round ; but for the earliest flowers I have always found that a single seed sown in a three-inch flower- pot and left undisturbed will be sure to give a bright little wreath of blossoms. Burridge, rose-colored ; Bona Nox. white ; and rubra coerulea, a purplish blue, are very pretty kinds. It is best, I think, in sowing to leave a hole in the middle of the pot, or to scoop out a little ditch round the edge, in which to pour the water. It never does with seed- lings and amateurs to set the seed pots floating. The object is simply not to wet, but to keep the soil from actually drying up. Digging the surface is also a great thing. Fault of a bet- ter spade a steel pen answers well for this purpose ; and sur- face roots with seedlings ought to be much encouraged by little earthings-up when we see tiny white points appearing. Balsams again are most amusing things to grow, because they contrive to get over the ground so fast. A good plan is that of sowing first in small 60-pots, letting them make their way up through successive changes, watering well, and giving them a warm and light and very well sheltered place. I say well sheltered, because no one knows how easily the stems of balsams snap. This reminds me of flower sticks. Ladies are frightfully apt to bury just one inch of the stick in soil, and then to wonder that the support is shaky. Where a pot is being prepared for even a seed which is destined to grow up in it, the future flower stick should be fixed in with the soil, going down absolutely to the very hole, and being sur- rounded by the drainage. A shaky stick is always hurting not only the stems but roots, not to speak of its unpleasant quality of making the whole untidy. Celosias arc very pretty plants to grow in pots, and so arc some of the amaranths, treated like balsams, only with less water. Canary-flower ought always to bo sown in the pots in wliicli it may remain, and a largo drainage hole in those cases is a great advantage. Transplanting or pricking out climb- ing plants is always injurious, as it checks their growth. Then there is tlic charming piilox Drummondii, and mimu- lus, Indian pinks, primulas, lobelias and petunias ; even most JULY. 825 part of the hardy annuals, which arc none the worse for a little heat. The only thing is to mind they do not get drawn up too tall, for it is not always gratifying to be assured "our plants have been growing beautifully — they are — oh so long I" A very great point, indeed, is to guard against heavy show- ers and against twisting winds. A little dew might benefit the young plants ; but if they are grown in boxes or jjlant- cases, closing up the front when the sun is shining provides an instant vapor bath and an immediate shade from what would be too hot. A thin sheet of moss laid over each pot is said to be very useful in keeping the soil from drying, and so it no doubt is. Still there is the awkwardness of separating it if the plants must be pricked out, and one is apt to fidget about small things getting choked. Unless therefore they are seeds sown to stand, I hardly advocate the use of the moss by window gardeners, except to cover the drainage. Sweet peas and climbers root down into it wonderfully. I even mean to ex- perimentalize on no drainage, but a quantity of moss. In growing seeds in plant cases I think it is best to give no hot water at night. It saves a vast deal of "drawing up," and if the top of the case is open then it is all the better. I always am glad to give a quite cool place as soon as may be to seedlings. Many too, as German asters for instance, re- quire to be where they can have light on all sides to keep up the pyramidal form, and this is hard to give where we have a crowd. FLORIC U LT U R AL NOTICES. The Azalea. — The motto of the horticulturist is "On- wards ;" and among the objects of his solicitude, even the Indian Azalea, one of the aristocracy of the floral world, must keep pace with the times, and conform to the rule which this motto suggests, if it is to maintain its position. That position is doubtless a high one ; for of the flowers which have won their way to popular favor there are none, 326 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. perhaps, which are capable of producing so bewitching an effect upon the beholder as the azaleas, with their lovely hues spread out in rich profusion, as may be seen at any of the early summer exhibitions, where they always form the lead- ing feature. Tlie past season or two, as well as the present, have wit- nessed some very satisfactory advances both in the quality and character of this superb flower. This last year we had as a novelty a variety called Kinghornii, which shows a very near approach to perfection in respect to the form as well as to the substance and smootlmess of its flowers, which high qualities it presents along with the additional recommenda- tion of a very pleasant looking rosy color. Then from the same stud — Mr. Kinghorn's nursery — we have lately had another named Mars, which, to a more than average amount of general excellence, adds the richest and brightest of those light reds, approaching scarlet, which has as yet been obtained in this family. So much for past seasons. The spring, which is now just merging into summer, has presented us with some advances in another direction. Prob- ably, all points considered, the most perfect and meritorious of the novelties it has introduced to us is that called Due d'Aremberg, a variety of Belgian origin, shown by Messrs. Smith, and of which some very small examples only have as yet been seen. We may picture this variety as being one of the most perfect in form of those delicate looking salmon pinks, bordered with white, of which we have examples in the old variegata and the new President Clacys, but the bor- dering is here remarkably broad and distinct, there is super- added some unusual spotting which much increases the charm of the flower, and tlicrc arc also occasional carmine stripes. The spotting in this fine and novel variety occurs at the base of the upper segments just beneath the sinus, and is of a deep rose red. Inferior doubtless to this in point of form, but yet a most striking novelty in respect to color, is another Belgian variety, with semi-double flowers, called Sou- venir du Prince Albert, which was produced Iiy Mr. J. Ver- schaffclt at the very last meeting of the Plural Committee. The ground color of tliis entirely novel flower is a deep bright JULY. 327 rosy red, almost crimson, and tliis is edged l)y a broad mar- gin of pure white, the contrast between the two colors being very striking and much more marked than in any other vari- ety yet raised, so that we may say of this souvenir of a good man, that it will also be a charming plant either for the exhi- bition table or the home stage. One other move in tlie right dicection — albeit in a direction different from either of the preceding — we have observed in a variety named Rifleman, shown by Mr. Ivery. In this last the color is white with stripes of bright carmine occurring here and there, and the flowers are semi-double, the semi-duplication being f^roduced not by a tuft of crumpled segments formed of pe^loid sta- mens within the proper corolla, as is the usual condition of the so-called double azaleas, but by the presence of a second row of broad flat smooth segments like those of the outer or normal corolla. It does not require any very deep discern- ment to see that a race of double flowers formed on the plan indicated in the blossom of this variety would be very much superior to those in which the inner segments were small and crumpled after the now usual model. Thus it is, we think, evident, that the Indian azalea, having reached a very high position, is still working its way not only in the direction of desirable novelty, but also towards perfection. While writing of azaleas we cannot forbear expressing sur- prise that two little gems of this family brought from China by Mr. Fortune and named respectively A. ohtusa and A. amcEna^ are not more commonly cultivated. The latter, in- deed, being the most recently introduced of the two, does now and then make its way into our flower shows, but the former is very seldom seen at all. It is not however as exhi- bition plants that we allude to them here, but as small flower- ing shrubs for conservatories, and as little bushes for drawing room flower-baskets, for which situations they have few rivals, their habit being so neat and compact, their bloom so profuse, and their colot's so rich and effective. These two plants are quite distinct from the varieties of A. indica^ though associat- ing with them in habit and cultivation. — ( Gard. ChronS) New Petunia. — Mr. J. Cadness, of Flushing, L. I., has raised a new and beautiful double petunia, which he has 328 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. named Gen. McClellan. It was exhibited at the Brooklyn Horticultural Society, in April, and attracted much attention. It is a very full flower, of a deep rose color, mottled with pure white, very distinct and clear. The habit of the plant is robust and vigorous, and a very free flowerer. It was awarded a special premium. Massachusetts Horticultural Society. — The opening show of the season took place on Saturday, May 24th. The principal exhibitors of plants were Messrs. Hovey & Co., who had six azaleas ; among them, crispiflora. Model, (new and fine,) Osborni, and others, all pyramidal plants covered with ))loom. The pelargoniums, both fancy and show sorts, were unusually fine, and embraced Napoleon III., Mad. Pescatorc, Glory of America, a beautiful spotted sort, Viola, L'avenir, (striped,) and others. Fine large specimens, three feet high, of the Cavendish heath, E. ventricosa coccinea, Hartnellii, intermedia, and others. The pretty blue Tetrachcca, Statice Halfordi, large Rhophalas, the fragrant Rhyncospermum, and others, made up the collection of 12 greenhouse plants. A very superb specimen of azalea Decora from I. Sargent, Esq., a Medinilla magnifica from E. S. Rand, and a few Japanese plants from Spooner & Parkman, were the principal plants besides the above collection. No reports are now publislied, and we have been unable to obtain a complete list of the prizes. Exhibition of Japanese Plants. — Messrs. Veitch & Co. and Mr. Standish recently exhibited these plants, of which the following report is made : — "In addition to the subjects just alluded to, Mr. Standish had also a nice group of plants, chiefly Japanese, among which wore Rctinospora pisifcra aurea, a variegated Cerasus, Eurya latifolia variegata, a now Privet with round stilf coria- ceous leaves ; Thujopsis Keteleeri variegata, Microlepia scab- ra, and other ferns ; Ilex Fortuui a variegated variety of the Green Tea plant; a bcrberis, with large liandsomo foliage; Juniperus japonica, a variegated Eleagnus, and other ])lants of great interest. A somewhat similar but even larger collection of .Japanese plants was likewise furnished by Messrs. Veitch, who contrib- JULY. 329 uted among other things, Abies firma, Pinus densiflora, Scia- dopitys verticillata, variegated Thujopsis dolabrata, Retinos- pora obtusa argeutea, R. lycopodioidcs, Thuja falcata, Juni- periis rigida, a variegated Podocarpus, the singular dwarf Thuja pygmsea, Abies Alcoquiana, the new Japanese Aucuba, variegated varieties of Osmanthus, Eurya, Euonymus and Cape Jasmine, a gold striped Carex, variegated camellia, new variegated Farfugium very different from grande, Ficus, Priv- et, Bamboo, and Hemerocallis ; together with valuable ferns and other plants lately introduced from Japan by Mr. J. G. Veitch. Accompanying these were also various specimens of Japan- ese woods, including a large and beautiful plank of Planera acuminata." New Cacti. — We have just now in fine bloom several very beautiful cacti, raised from the very large scarlet kinds im- pregnated with crenatus. Some of them are immensely large and new in color; one, a pale rosy crimson with violet tinge on all the petals ; anatlier is deeper and richer than the old speciosissimus ; and a third is intense deep scarlet ten inches in diameter. We regret that this showy class should have so few admirers, as a well grown collection with hundreds of flowers in bloom is a rich treat, and we hope our amateur cultivators will give them the attention they should receive and which they richly pay. OUR HARDY HERBACEOUS PLANTS. BY THE EDITOR. We resume the continuation of our list of fine hardy peren- nial plants, omitted since our March number (p. 138), for want of space. We have already alluded to the very great ornamental character of the Ranunculaceous plants, in the arrangement and decoration of the flower garden, and the further addition of two plants alone justifies the assertion of a French writer already quoted, as regards the importance of this magnificent natural order. 330 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. The Ranunculus, that is the Ranunculus of the florist, is in reality one of the most exquisitely beautiful and perfect of all flowers, and we can only deeply regret that it is so little known, and so difiicult to cultivate successfully in our cli- 13. RANUNCULUS ACIUS PLKNO. 14. K. ACONITIKOI.IUS n.K.NO. mate. It is the gem of the florist, and can be grown in great perfection, tliougli not without great care and attention, as wc well know ; for three or four years we flowered a bed of them in great luxuriance, and the remembrance of their JULY. 331 beauty — though years gone by — is a perpetual source of grat- ification, associated as they were with our earliest love of the exquisite symmetry which nature displays in her great works, RANUNCULUS ACONITIFOLIUS VAR. PLENO. The two species which we now represent in our engraving are very beautiful plants, more particularly the R. aconitifo- lius pleno, (fig. 14,) little known in our gardens, but famil- iar to English cultivators as the "Fair Maid of France," a name most fitly chosen in honor of the exiled Huguenots who were so fond of the flowers. It is also known as the White Bachelor's Button. This species has stout wiry roots, from the crown of which spring the leaves and flowers. The leaves are radical, and deeply cut ; the flower stems grow about a foot high, and are covered with a profusion of snow white perfectly double and elegantly formed flowers, which blossom in June. It is perfectly hardy, and will grow in any good soil, but prefers a half shady situation where the ground is rather moist. In dry ground it fails to grow vigorously and insects often attack the leaves. It also succeeds well in pots, keep- ing the plants over winter in a cool frame, and carrying them into the house in April, where they bloom profusely. It is a native of the North of Italy and Switzerland. It is propagat- ed by dividing the roots. RANUNCULUS ACRIS PLENO. This, the double variety of the common Ranunculus or Butter Cup, (fig. 13,) is similar to the last in form but with the brightest golden yellow flowers, styled the Yellow Bache- lor's Button by English cultivators. It is a more . robust growing sort than the last, making a great number of root leaves, and throwing up more numer- our and taller stems, two feet high, which are covered with its perfectly double and handsomely shaped blossoms. It will grow in any soil or situation, but prefers moisture, where it remains in bloom a longer time. It is the best of the yellow flowered varieties of the Ranunculus. It is rapidly increased by dividing the roots in spring or autumn. 332 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICDLTUEE. ©ritual "^Gtitts. How TO Form an Orange Grove. — There appears something bor- dering on romance when one talks of an orange grove in England, yet it is quite feasible. One day, ere long, orange groves under glass, giving fruit and flowers and a perfumed promenade, more agreeable than the dusty sur- face of the ground under a plantation of orange trees in the countries where they are cultivated for their fruit, will be common enough in England, when the method of making one is pointed out. There are two modes of forming a plantation of orange trees under glass : one is simply to keep the temper- ature in winter from sinking below 30°; this may be done by having, in a large span-roofed house 24 feet wide, two 4-inch hot-water pipes all round the house. In a house of this size, and thus heated, a central path 4 feet wide or more should be formed, and the border on each side planted with Tangerin, St. Michael's, and any other kind of orange that is not too robust and vigorous in its habit. Citrons, lemons, and shaddocks should not be mixed with oranges in planting, but have a portion of the house devoted to them, or they will soon shade the more humble growing kinds. Tangerin, St. Michael's, or other kinds of oranges of moderate growth, may be plant- ed about 5 feet apart, and the borders in which they are planted, if not loamy or clayey, but light and sandy (for the orange likes a stitf soil when growing au naiurel), should have a dressing of stiff yellowish loam and rot- ten manure, two-thirds of the former to one of the latter, and 6 inches thick ; this should be forked over and mixed with the soil to 18 inches in depth, and you will then have a border in which orange trees will grow freely and bear abundantly. A large span-roofed house 100 feet long and 24 feet wide would form a grove large enough for a most enjoyable promenade. An amateur living near Clapham, Surrey, has recently built three houses of this size, one of which will most probably be formed into the first orange grove ever seen near London. There is another mode of forming an orange grove under glass, more expensive and more luxurious, by adopting " geothermal cult- ure," and heating the borders as well as the air of the house. A house 24 feet wid<; under this system would require four 4incli hot-water pipes under each border (with rubble 4 inches deep over them), placed about 2 feet under the surface ; with a path in the centre of the house 5 feet wide, each border uiay bo from !* to 10 feet wide; the pipes about 2 feet apart; besides these there must be two 4-inch hot-water pipes to heat the air of the house in the ripening season. In a house thus heated those delicious (when first gathered) Maltese blood oranges may be grown, and the Pernauibnco and other tropical varieties of the genus Citrus. Tangerin and St. Michael's orange trees jdaiitfd in these warm borders would ripen tlieir fruit very early, and it would be more sugary and rich. There seems, indeed, no end to what can hi; done by lOiigliKbiiicn with the aid of artificial heat and glass. What a beautiful vineyard under glass could be formed by such heated bor- JULY. 333 ders as I have described above ; and how charminjj " to make a prome- nade," as our neighbors say, in snch a place. The Tangerin orange is an abundant bearer when cultivated under favorable circumstances, A corres- pondent has recently informed me that a tree in his garden at Alexandria, Egypt, not more than 6 feet high, has often given him a crop of .500 fruit. (Rivers^s Or chard- House.) Magnolias. — I have this week had an opportunity of visiting the famous American Nurseries at Knap Hill, in which there are now many admirable specimens of this magnificent genus finely in flower. Auriculata is 45 feet in height, and the width of its branches is 35 feet. The stem near the ground is 10 feet in circumference ; it divides into eight limbs, some of which are 3 feet in circumference. This is a noble specimen, its large pale green fine textured, and peculiarly shaped foliage lobed and lengthened to the point ; and supplemented, too, as the young shoots now are, with large milkish white agreeably odored flowers, produces a fine effect on the land- scape, contrasting well with the rare and unique specimens of fine trees in its immediate locality, and all about is carpeted with the choicest kinds of azaleas and rhododendrons, whose flowers of all hues are now of the most enlivening and glorious character. Tripetala is 30 feet in height, and the circumference of its branches is 60 feet — its immense pale green new born foliage has now a noble appearance, and its large white flaccid-petaled flowers, produced from the extremities of last year's shoots, have, as Loudon describes them, a languid and luxurious effect. Gracilis: there are some standards of this species which have a very nice effect, 9 feet in height, abundant in flowers, which are of a somewhat smaller character than its prototype, the purpurea ; its leaves too are considerably narrower. Glauca and glauca sempervirens, of which there are many fine specimens 16 feet in height, on clear stems more than 11 inches in diameter, and having nice- ly formed heads, are now covered with ample foliage and embryo flowers, which will continue to expand during the summer and autumn months. Acuminata in many noble specimens 30 feet in height, on straight stems 10 inches in diameter, and having the spread of their branches fully 60 feet in circumference, which are now covered with superb foliage and beautiful flowers. Loudon states that "the plants are in some nurseries grown in the free soil, but it is always preferable to raise them in pots; because in that case they are not checked Ify transplanting, and at least a year is gained in their growth." Here I believe a very different system prevails, and there are many of these large trees fully 20 feet in height, that would move with perfect safety, from the constant practice of moving and root pruning that is constantly applied to almost every plant for sale in these extended grounds, with the best effects, as can be readily seen in the splendid exhi- bition of American plants which now graces the garden of the Royal Hor- ticultural Society at South Kensington. Conspicua Soulangeana still re- tains some lingering blossoms, whilst those on the parent plant had perished many weeks since from the baneful influence of spring frosts. — (Gard. Chi-on.) 334 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. ^ Saturday, May 3, 1862. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, — the President in the Chair. No business of importance was transacted. C. M. Atkinson, W. H. Harrington, and James Falconer were elected members. Adjourned one month, to June 7. May 31. — l he opening exhibition of the year took place to-day. The show was extremely limited, the only collection of plants being sent by Hovey & Co., who had a miscellaneous lot of greenhouse plants, compris- ing Rhopala corcovadensis, Aralia reticulata, Yucca aloifolia variegata, the Cavendish Heath, Statice Halfordi, Tetratheca verticillata; azaleas, Thyr- sacanthus, and others, which were awarded the prize ; also, pelargoniums, L'avenir, Viola, Mad. Pescatore, Napoleon III., Una, and Ariel, and six fancy sorts, all in fine condition ; six heaths, and six azaleas ; among them a superb specimen of crispiflora, one mass of bloom ; a small plant of Model, a beautiful new variety, well worthy of extensive culture. E. S. Rand, Esq., had a well bloomed specimen of Medinilla magnifica, and Alocasia metallica. I. Sargent, Esq., an immense specimen of Azalea decora, one sheet of bloom. Spooner & Parkman had Thujopsis dolabrata variegata and the golden variegated Euonymus. Cut flowers were shown in considerable quanities, and in very good con- dition. As a whole the show was the smallest for some years. PRIZES WERE AWARDED AS FOLLOWS: Azaleas. — For the best, to Hovey Si, Co., $6. Pelargoniums. — For the best, to Hovey & Co., $8. For the best Fancy, to Hovey & Co., $8. Heaths. — For the best, to Hovey & Co., $6. Greenhoose Plants. — For the best 12, to Hovey Co., $8. Specimen Plant. — For the best, to E. S, Rand, $6. For the second best, to E. S. Rand, $5. Cut Flowers. — For the best, to Hovey & Co., $6. For the next, to Spooner & Co., $4. For the next to J. Nugent, $2. Gratuities. — To I. Sargent, Esq., for Azalea Decora, $5. To the President of the Society, for cut flowers, $5. To Hon. M. P. Wilder, for a collection of tree pajunies, #2. To Hovey &- Co., for pot plants, iffi4. To E. S. Rand, Esq., for collection, i^l. To E. A. Story, for cut flowers, #2. To D. Murray, for native flowers, $2. To Walker &i (Jo., for tulips, $1. To Anna C. Kcnrick, for basket of flowers, $1. JULY. 335 iortiailtural ©perations FOR JULY. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. The month of June has been cool with continued showers and heavy rain, saturating the ground after the dry spring. Trees of all kinds present an unusually vigorous and healthy aspect. Grape Vines in the early houses will be nearly or quite ripe, and will need little attention other than that already advised. Late vineries will now be swelling their fruit rapidly and will begin to color by the middle of ihe month. Attend to the temperature of the house and continue watering free- ly for some days; air freely in fine weather, and stop all laterals in due sea- son. Vines in cold houses will be coming on slowly in consequence of the late cool and wet weather; look out for mildew and check it in season with sulphur water; continue to thin the berries and stop the laterals as they need it ; air freely, but close up early on cool nights. Vines in the open air should be summer pruned, laying in the bearing wood for next year, and cutting away all weak shoots. Strawberries intended to be kept on the same spot of ground should be attended to immediately. Manure heavily and dig in the old plants on each side of the old row, so that the young runners may cover the ground ; or if kept in hills or small rows go over them and cut off all new runners and all the old and half-decaying foliage ; then manure freely and dig the ground. Young plantations made in May or June should be kept clean of weeds by frequent hoeing, until the plants begin to run freely, when they should be laid in carefully and covered with a' little soil. Summer Pruning should be continued according to the vigor and growth of the trees. Thinning thk Fruit is an important matter when fine specimens are wanted ; go over and take off every ill-formed or wormy specimen. Fruit Trees in pots will require attention ; water liberally, unless the fruit is ripening, using liquid manure occasionally. Orchard Houses will need thorough ventilation at this season of the year, if the trees are not removed to the open air. Guard against the in- crease of insects which are generally very troublesome in warm weather. Manure, Mulch, and Water ftuit trees bearing heavy crops. FLOWER department. All the plants should now be cleared from the house, if not already done except such as are intended for in-door decoration. These, whatever the kinds, should have good attention and grown so as to form ornamental ob- jects. Attend soon to the preparation of winter-bloaming plants, which win need heading in, repotting, &c. Camellias should be shaded slightly for a time after removal to the open air, to prevent scorching of the foliage. Water carefully and syringe free- ly. Inarching may be done now and plants that require it repotted. 336 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTUEE. Azaleas should have especial attention. Water freely, and syringe often, encouraging a free growth this month, and stop all over vigorous shoots. Now is the time to propagate a young stock, either by grafting or by cuttings. Repot such as require it. Heaths should be looked after; pmch in the young shoots so as to se- cure stocky plants ; repot such as require it. Cinerarias should now be propagated by cuttings or division of the roots. Protect the young plants till well established. Sow seeds for a winter stock. Calceolaria seeds may be sown this month. Pelargoniums should now be headed in, and cuttings put in for a young stock. Keep the plants rather dry till they begin to break. Chrysanthemums should be repotted and the shoots nipped off to form bushy plants. Fuchsias may be repotted. Heliotropes for winter blooming should be repotted. Verbenas for the same purpose should be repotted. OxALis HiRTA should be potted. Chinese Primroses should now be propagated for a young stock. Sow seed of the single kinds, and repot those already well advanced. Roses should be repotted and plunged out in the open ground. Mignonette seeds may be planted the last of the month. Cyclamens should be planted out in a shady border if not already done. Vallota purpurea should be repotted and plnnged in the border. Begonias should have a shift into larger pots. Caladiums should be repotted. Monthly Carnations should be repotted or planted out in the open ground. Callas should be allowed to rest for a montli or so turning the pots on their sides. Orange Trees should have attention; repot or top dress such as need it. Winter Flowering Plants of all kinds should be pruned in, top dressed, or repotted, and the vigorous growing sorts plunged in the open border. FLOWER garden AND SHRUBBERY. The garden should now be in its best array. Every weed should be de- stroyed, and all the young plants neatly tied up to stakes. The lawn, from the continued wet weather will require frequent rolling and cutting, and the walks should be clean and well rolled. Prune in all ill shaped siirubs, and keep the climbing plants neatly tied up. Tulips and other spring bulbs should be taken up at once and their places filled with a reserve stock of asters, verbenas, or other i)lanl.s. Dahlias should be tied up carefully to the intakes. Roses. The Hybrid Porpetuiils should now be pruned back short to in- duce a free autumnal bloom. Asters may now be planted out if not ulieady done. Carnations and Picotees now blooming should be tied up to neat stakes. Pinks may be propagated from cuttings. THE PiEONIES. Next in prominence after the Rhododendrons and Roses come the Paeonies, both tree and herbaceous, wliich unitedly keep up a grand display for six weeks, the former beginning to bloom in May, and the latter following, to the end of June. We have, in previous volumes, said so much in praise of these flowers, that it may appear superfluous to allude to them again ; but, with the magnificent show of our own collection, and the well-known fact that the former varieties are yet strangers to most gardens, we cannot forego the opportunity to again urge their claims upon all lovers of splendid flowers ; at the same time it is a source of pleasure to introduce to their notice several superb new varieties, additional to the large number we have already described in our pages. By what process have the French cultivators achieved such marvellous results ? Look at that old and once favorite flow- er, the Double White (Whitleyi) ; scan its form, measure its breadth, survey its outline ; double, and even large as it is, it possesses no striking quality. Yet, out of this have been produced festiva and festiva maxima, the first exquisite in form and coloring ; the last, monstrous in size, and magnifi- cent in aspect, measuring one foot in diameter, tall in stature and robust in growth. Hybridization has, undoubtedly, been the means by which so much has been accomplished ; but it is, nevertheless, wonderful ; and the amateur cultivator can- not compare them, or any of the newer and superb varieties, with the older sorts, without an inward feeling of wonder at the change, and an involuntary expression of thanks to the skilful men who have labored so patiently and assiduously in the development of such remarkable and beautiful varieties. The tree paeonies are little less remarkable than the her- baceous. Variety they do not yet possess, like the latter ; but this will come in the end. For a long period after tlie intro- duction of the tree paeony great exertions were made, both by individuals and the London Horticultural Society, to intro- VOL. XXVIII. — NO. VIII. 22 338 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. duce the varieties -wliich it was said they possessed in China ; drawings executed in Canton, and in the Library of the East India Company, representing a fine double purple flower, and a double yellow flower. Though Mr. Sabine, in his very com- plete account of the tree pa3ony, in the Transactions of the Society (Yol. TI.,) placed no reliance on the statement of the great number, and of the very different colors, of the va- rieties represented to exist by the authors who had described them, (Memoires sur les Chinois,) yet, as late as 1848, Mr. Fortune, in his explorations of that country, was particu- larly charged to search out these fabulous sorts ; and he sent home a very great number of kinds, which flowered in the garden of the London Horticultural Society ; but though dis- tinct and handsome there was neither a double purple or double yellow, and these are yet to be added to our collec- tions. We certainly do not doubt they may have a double purple, as we possess a single one of that deep color, but the yellow we discredit as did Mr. Sabine. Up to 1826 only the old Banksite and papaveracea had been introduced to Europe, but since then the French and Belgian cultivators have raised thousands of seedlings, and the cata- logues now contain upwards of a hundred fine sorts. Many of the recent varieties are not only new in color, but very large, of which Elizabetha is an example. As they may be hybridized with the lierbaccous sorts, there can be no doubt a few years will bring us magnificent, deep colored flowers, which will give enhanced value to this already highly prized tribe. But, notwithstanding the general impression among most amateurs in regard to the beauty of the tree or ^Moutan paiony, fur garden elfcct, they are surpassed by the herbaceous kinds. As single specimens, on the lawn, or introduced into the shiultbery, they arc grand ol)jccts at all times. But in the border they appear out of place. Tlic flowers of the latter are disphiyod in such masses above the ample foliage, continue in flower so nmcli longer, and occui)y so nuich less room, that they are fur more effective and beautiful. Planted in masses, with a good arrangement of colors, they make a gorgeous display. Our large plantation, covering fifty feet square of AUGUST, 339 ground, and containing a hundred varieties, formed a mag- nificent coup (Toiil^ not surpassed, if equalled by any otlier flower. As single specimens, in the border, among other flow- ers not yet in their season of bloom, — for the pa3onies come before most herbaceous plants, and almost as soon as the bed- ding plants are out, — they tower up in grand array, the white varieties forming avalanches of snow, wliile the dark colors glow with the purple hues of an October sunset. The first improver of the herbaceous paeonies to any ex- tent, was M. Guerin of Paris ; but other cultivators soon fol- lowed, and with the happiest results. M. Parmentier's whole life was devoted to the improvement of this flower, and so much did he prize them that for many years he refused to part with a single specimen. Most of his productions were the very deep colored varieties, previously unknown, except in the imported semi-double variety, called Pottsii. One of the last, and most successful growers, is Dr. Calot, who has raised several superb seedlings, quite new and distinct, as will be seen by our descriptions of the flowers. The still newer varieties, not yet introduced, appear, from their de- scription, to be very remarkable, as no doubt many of them are, for there is no reason why the colors should not be as varied as the rose or dahlia, while in size and form, they al- ready seem to have come up to a standard of the highest excel- lence, though they may possibly be improved. English cultivators do not appear to appreciate the mag- nificence of the pseony, and we do not now recollect a single variety, either of the tree or herbaceous kinds, of any particu- lar merit, raised by them. Yet who, if left to choose between the two, the pseony and hollyhock, to the latter of which they have devoted so much time, would not give their preference to the former, which requires little or no care, is perfectly hardy, will grow everywhere, and is the flower for the million. So showy and beautiful are the paeonies that we must urge their great claims upon the attention of all lovers of superb flowers ; we are sure they will add more to an effective dis- play of the flower border than any other plant, and while the immense size of some of the varieties, the deep tints of others, and the delicate pencillings of many, will bear the closest in 340 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. spection, the profusion of the bloom cannot fail to render the garden doubly attractive throughout the whole month of June, losing nothing, even aside of the roses, when viewed in regard to color, size, and, we had almost said, in fragrance, for several of the varieties have a strong and pleasant odor. Having described, in our previous volumes, upwards of fifty varieties, and some of them having now become more abundant, and to be obtained at moderate prices, we offer the following as a selection of a dozen kinds for a small collec- tion. When a larger number are wanted the selection may readily be made from the descriptive list : — White. — Festiva, and Festiva maxima. Blush. — Grandiflora carnea plena, Mad. Breon. Yellowish. — Sulphurea and flavescens. Rose. — Ne plus ultra, Edulis superba. Crimson. — Reine des Francais, plenissima rosea superba. Violet. — Fulgida, Violacea. October is the best season to transplant pjEonies. If set out at that time they will generally flower the first year, and will make much stronger growth for flowering the year fol- lowing. We annex the names and descriptions of twenty of the newest varieties, beginning our enumeration where we closed in a previous volume, (XXIY., p. 489) : — 54. Alexander Verschaffelt, {Parmeniier). — Flowers large, globular ; outer petals large ; the centre well filled, forming a compact, beautiful flower, the edges of the petals being sliglitly rumpled ; color carmine, shading off to light pink towards the edges. Height about 2i feet. 55. Bossuet. — ^Flowers large ; outer petals medium size ; centre very full ; color ricli violet rose. Height 2i feet. 56 Clarisse, {Calot). — Flowers large and full; outer petals large, soft rose ; those in the centre nearly erect, of the same color, shaded with salmon at the ends. Height 3 feet. 57. Comtesse de Morny. — Flowers large, globular ; outer petals large ; full to the centre, of fine form ; color clear rose. Height 2i feet. 58. Camille Calot, (^Calot). — Flowers large and full; AUGUST. 341 outer petals large ; those of centre erect ; color clear deep rose. Height 2 J feet. 59. DuGESCLiN, (^Caloi). — Flowers large, globular, and cupped ; petals regular, from the circumference to the centre, of beautiful form ; color beautiful rosy lilac. Height 3 feet. A superb variety. 60. Etendard du grand homme, {Calof). — Flowers very large ; outer petals large and long ; centre petals slightly irregular ; color violet amaranth. Height 2^ feet, A superb flower. 61. Faust, ( Calof). — Flowers large and full ; outer petals large, pale lilac ; centre petals large, tinged with chamois, and often tinted with pale rose in the middle ; stigmas car- mine. Height 2^ feet. 62. FiDELiNE, (Calot'). — Flowers large ; fine form; petals uniformly large ; color bright rosy violet, lighter at the edges. Height 2 to 2J feet. Very fine. 63. Gen. Caivagnac. — Flowers large ; outer petals large, rose ; centre petals smaller, of a deep pink. Height 2^ feet. 64. L'Eblouissante, (^Parmentier) . — Flowers large, glob- ular, of beautiful form ; petals large, from the circumference to the centre ; color rich glowing violet. Height 3 feet. Su- perb. 65. Louis Parmentier. — Flowers large, full and fine form ; petals large ; color delicate pale blush. Height 2j feet. QQ. Magnifica, (^Calof), — Flowers large and globular; outer petals large, pale blush ; those of tlie centre, erect, yel- lowish white ; stigmas carmine. Height 3 feet. 67. Madame Calot, {Calot}. — Flowers very large and globular ; outer petals large, white, slightly shaded with lilac, those of the centre yellowish. Height 3 feet. Superb. 68. Madame Vilmorin. — Flowers large, full and handsome form ; petals large ; color beautiful bright rose. Height 2i feet. 69. Noemie, {Calot}. — Flowers large and globular; outer petals large ; centre full ; color soft, pale flesh. Height 3 feet. Beautiful. 70. Prince Pierre Troubetskoy. — Flowers very large. 342 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. globular; petals large, and regular to the centre ; color bright violet, paler on the edges. Height 2 J feet. Very fine. 71. Sydonie, ( Calof). — Flowers large and full, fine form ; outer petals large ; those of the centre erect, soft rose, the extremity of some of the middle petals shaded with salmon. Height 21 feet. Beautiful. 72. Victor Leman, (^Calof). — Flowers large and hand- some form ; outer petals large, pale lilac ; centre full, yellow- ish, and tipped with carmine. Height 3 feet. Superb. HALF HOURS WITH OLD AUTHORS. BY WILSON FLAGG. " A General Treatise of Husbandry and Gardening, &c." By R. Bradley, Professor of Botany in the UnivCTsity of Cambridge, (Eng.) London, 1726. This Treatise embraces almost every topic connected with agriculture and gardening, and contains nearly all the gen- eral information that was known to agriculturists at the time of the publication. The author says that, although English husbandmen are allowed by all nations to have a superior genius for agriculture, yet it is rare to find one of them who ever attempts any new discovery, or that can give any other reason for what they do, than that tlieir fathers did the same before them. This is tlic old complaint, I would remark, which has always been brought against farmers, and is still urged against them by modern speakers and writers. But I would say in their defence, that no better reason could be given by a farmer for his practice than the example of his father, whose practice had been successful. This appeal to experience is always reasonable, and those who are governed by example rather tlian precept are the most successful far- mers. Experimental farmers arc very useful men to the public, Imt their experiments arc generally ruinous to their own success. Tbe i)rudnnt man of practice watches liis theo- retical neighbors, and profits by such of his experiments as AUGUST. 343 have been successful. " The tenacity with which our farmers in general cling to old ways and practices is imputable not to their ignorance but to their common sense. In old books we must expect to find old notions ; and among others I find in this treatise a whole letter devoted to explaining the truth of tlie notion that a swell of land cannot produce more vegetation than the area of its base, though the former may measure half as much more than the latter on its surface. The author proceeds thus to explain his position: " A hill, I suppose, may contain four equal sides, which meet in a point at the top ; but the contents of these four sides can produce no more, either of grain or trees, than the plain ground upon which the hill stands, or has its base ; and yet by the measure of the sides we find twice the number of acres, roods and poles, which we can measure in the base or ground plat." In order to prove this the author gives a diagram, in which parallel perpendicular lines are drawn from a horizontal line representing the base of a hill through the cui?ve line that represents the surface of the hill. By this diagram we per- ceive that it would require no more palings to build a fence over the hill than to build one straight across a space equal- ling the width of the base of the hill. I am inclined to believe, however, that, in spite of this mathematical reasoning, there is not a farmer in any coun- try, who would not prefer the products of the hill to those of a plain, of similar soil, equalling the area of its base, if each was fully stocked, either with timber or hay. And if it were required, to cover the former with sods taken from the latter, any one who should observe the process, would find the falsity of the author's assumption clearly demonstrated. Nothing is more common in the world than such a variance- as this between theory and practice, or between mathematics and common sense. The author's reasoning is based on the supposition that all plants have an erect manner of growth^ which is true only of certain parts of plants, as of the stem ; other parts having a vertical tendency, but spreading out also horizontally in. proportion to- their exposure to the sun and air. " The supposition," remarks St Pierre, " that plants rise 344 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. in a perpendicular line, and that to this direction, they are determined by the action of columns of air, is equally con- trary to truth. Some, it must be allowed, follow this direc- tion, as the fir, the stalk of corn and the reed. But a much greater number deviate from it, such as creeping plants, for instance, of every species, vines, &c. Others ascend verti- cally, and having arrived at a certain height, in an air per- fectly unobstructed, fork off in various tiers, and send out their branches horizontally, like the apple tree ; or incline them towards the earth, as the firs ; or hollow them in the form of a cup, like the sassafras ; or round them into a mushroom shape, like the pine ; or straighten them into a pyramid, like the poplar ; or roll them, as wool on the distaff, like the cypress ; or suffer them to float at the discretion of the winds, like the birch. All these attitudes may be seen under the same bearing of the wind. Nay, there are some that assume forms to which all the art of the gardener could hardly subject them. Such is the badamier of the Indies, which grows in the form of a pyramid, and is divided into stories, like the king of the chessboard. There are plants uncommonly vigorous, which, so far from pursuing a vertical line, recede from it the very moment they get above ground. Such is the false potato of India, which in hot countries, loves to crawl along ,the sand of the shores, covering whole acres in its progress. " We should never have done, were we to run over over so hastily, the different parts of vegetables ; what has been said is sufficient to evince that there is not a single one whose direction is determined by the vertical column of the air. Tlic mistake was occasioned by supposing that plants would naturally seek the greatest volume of air ; and this error in physics has produced another in geometry ; for on this sup- position, tlicy must all crowd toward the horizon, because there tlic column of air is much more considerable than in the zenith. We must in like manner reject the consequences which have been deduced from this idea, and laid down in- deed as j)rinciples of jurisprudence, for the division of lands in our boasted mathematical treatises; such, for instance, as the following : — that no more ivood or g-rass can grow on the AUGUST. 845 declivities of a mountain^ than vjliat would grow on the area of its base. There is not a woodcutter nor haymaker in the world, who could not demonstrate, from his own experience, the contrary of this maxim." Prom the " Seventy-Six Observations," concerning the management of fruit trees, in Bradley's Treatise, 1 will make a selection and abstract of what seems to be most original and valuable. Trees, he remarks, should be pruned but once in a year, which is contrary to the general practice ; for he thinks there are too many people, who are never without their knife in their hand. This continual pruning makes a tree shoot into false wood, and miscarry its buds designed for fruit ; it interrupts the free passage of the sap to such buds by diverting it to support the wounded parts of the tree. When a tree is in good order, he advises not to prune it too close, or take too much wood from inside, as some are too apt to do, leaving a dwarf naked within. It is, however, necessary to allow a circulation of air between the shoots that come from the middle, in proper places, for the better admit- tance of the sun to ripen the fruit ; and in this case we may allow the shoots of a dwarf tree more air in a strong wet ground, than in a light sandy ground, which by its natural warmth gives color and taste to those fruits, which, in wet, cold ground, would be insipid^ and good for nothing. Another observation is, that winter fruits should have their shoots left wider asunder than summer fruits ; the latter not wanting the sun as others do, may, therefore, be left pretty full of wood. We may further remark, that such trees as have made weak shoots may be pruned very early in the spring ; for pruning draws the sap ; but those trees which are very vigorous should be pruned late in the season, as they will thereby be made to bring less wood and more fruit. He advises us to consider the climate where we live, that we may direct our practice according to the degree of cold or heat. In hot countries the fruit must be gathered sooner than in colder climates, because the sap performs its work sooner. With the author it was a constant rule, that the longer the fruit can draw the sap, the longer it will last ; and 346 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. it is the same in nature, when we speak of pruning of a plant or the culture of trees, which we would forward or re- tard. We should gather a fruit after a frost, for this checks the sap so that it is no longer profitable to the fruit. In hot dry years, if the season is hot in August and Sep- tember, our fruits should be gathered about the beginning of October, rather than leave them upon the tree till the end of the month — for such fruit as has had a large share of ripen- ing upon the tree lasts but little while, as it is very subject to rot. But if August and September be wet and cold, then let the fruit hang upon the trees till the end of October, and it will keep well. This Mr. Bradley accounts one of the most material observations relating to fruit, though few gardeners, he says, make any account of it. When a tree is set full of fruit, and we wish to save what is fair and good, rather than the whole quantity, we may, with a pair of sharp scissors, cut off those wliich are the least prom- ising, about the middle of their stalks; tliis will prevent the weeping or loss of tlieir sap. And if tlie tree in its first or second sap tends to shoot an abundance of false wood, it must be pinched off while it is tender, but never cvt while the sap is flowing ; for by cutting the tree then it would run into wood, and the blossom buds which the second sap would fill, would thereby be made abortive. The blossom buds, he re- marks, are formed by the first sap, viz., between April and June, and are filled hij the second sap, between July and the beginning of October, for opening and bearing the following year. It is an opinion still prevailing among some people, that if trees are weak, they must be pruned in the increase of the moon, to make them give us stronger wood ; and Avhen they are very strong, they must be cut in the time of the moon's decrease, to make tlicm bring abundance of fruit and less wood ; but tlio author advises every one to use his own judg- ment in this c;is(!. We find that some trees arc more apt to shoot into unpi-Diluclive wood than others; when we meet with such strong shooting trees, we must ))runc so as to leave the shoots long, and according to their strength let their shoots remain longer or shorter ; but those shoots which have AUGUST. 347 blossom buds upon them in any great quantity must be shortened, that the remaining buds may nourish tlicir fruit the better, and the tree make good wood. Mr. Bradley considers it necessary, in the first or second year after the tree is planted, to prune very short to make it shoot or fling into wood ; and if in tlie succeeding years it does not happen to come into a bearing way, but still keeps shooting strong and unprofitable branches, as is common with the Rousselet, the Bergainotte and some others ; then, if we prune at all, leave every shoot very long ; or rather, leave such trees without pruning. In that case the tree will cer- tainly set to bearing, and the sap will not spend itself to no purpose ; but when those long branches are knotted with blossom buds, we may break off a convenient number of them, according to the strength of such branches. Of all the sorts of pears there is none which will bear pruning so short as the Winter Bon Chretien ; for then it will give large wood, and upon that we may expect large fruit. In pruning trees, as well as in gathering their fruit, we must have regard to the soil and climate ; if it be wet and cold, the fruit is green and paler in its color, and not so well flavored. In this case the shoots of a tree must be pruned free and open, that the rays of the sun may pass freely be- tween them. But in light sandy grounds, where fruit is always good, though it is smaller than in strong lands, the pruning must be very different. It should be very little, or none at all, in pear trees ; for in very hot dry land, the wounds made by pruning recover with difiiculty, and in the driest lands, the author has known pear trees to perish en- tirely by over-pruning. Every curious person in fruit should always keep by him a good number of free stocks, for replenishing his plantation ; but such a nursery should be raised from kernels. The suckers taken from about the roots of trees are good for noth- ing. We should likewise provide a nursery of quince stocks ; which are best raised from that sort of quince whose wood is brownest, the leaves large and round, and velveted on the back. This kind brings the strongest plants, contrary to that which is called the male quince, which one may easily distin- 348 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. guisli in the nursery, by its languishing appearance and small shoots. Its sap is always more sour than the others ; and if one was to graft upon such plants, the grafts are not likely to hold. The best way is to pull them up and plant others in their place. In dry sandy ground plant trees in autumn, and in moist watery places plant in the spring ; for else the water, lying about their roots all the winter, would chill and destroy them, especially such as make tender wood, as plums, cher- ries, and peaches. The pear and apple are more hardy in their wood, but yet more subject to be destroyed by water. Graft those pears which have a Beuree, or melting flesh, upon quince stocks ; but seldom or never use a quince stock for pears with a dry flesh ; for the juice of the quince which is harsh, dry and rough, adds to the dryness of those fruits grafted upon it. But the share of dryness which the grafts of melting pears can take from the quince stock helps the fruit in its keeping ; for all fruits which are grafted are in- fluenced in some measure by the juices of the stock they are grafted upon. Of quince stocks, the Portugal quince is the best for pears. CORDON TRAINING OF FRUIT TREES, ADAPTED TO THE ORCHARD-HOUSE AND OPEN-AIR CULTURE. BY REV. T. OOLLINGS BRE'HAUT. REMARKS ON THE DIMENSIONS, ETC., SUITABLE FOR ORCHARD- HOUSES. Although a number of these interesting structures arc now in full work, and arc becoming more known daily, as may be seen from the number of inquiries made respecting my own, and those of others, perhaps a few remarks on their dimen- sions and form may not be out of place. A lean-to orchard- house, thirty feet long, should be thirteen feet wide. If the back wall be twelve feet high, that is ample ; and the front should be about four or five feet high, but not more. Shutters AUGUST. 349 from twelve to fifteen inches in width all along the front, which is conveniently made of half-inch boards, and about lialf of the same quantity of ventilation at the back, are required. Glass ventilators, swinging on pivots, instead of wooden ones, are more expensive, but where this is of no consequence, much preferable. Such a house need not cost thirty pounds. A lean-to house, 100 feet long or more, with walls fifteen feet high, and eighteen or twenty feet wide, would be mag- nificent, and have a double walk — one near the wall trees, and one near the front row. In the smaller lean-to, which is only thirteen feet wide, one walk only is permissible, and that may be where you please ; but near the wall trees is best, as it gives more head-room, and enables you to attend to the wall trees better. To do this, a small ladder six feet high, and exactly twelve inches in breadth, (in order to slip between, the spurs,) is requisite. A small span-roofed house should be fourteen feet wide, five feet high at the sides, and nine feet high to the ridge. One centre walk leads between two rows of potted trees on either hand, the smaller trees, of course, nearest to the sides. A house thirty feet by fourteen costs about thirty pounds. Larger houses are twenty feet wide, sides about five feet high, height to the ridge about ten feet ; the paths, two in number, must be two and a half feet wide. The trees are placed on raised beds, bricked in : these beds, at the sides, should be four feet wide and fifteen inches higli ; but in the central bed, (there are three beds in all,) somewhat higher and one-third broader. Here can be grown fine pyramidal apricots and plums ; pears of choice kinds, and cherries, &c. One of Mr. Rivers's last and best is 100 feet long by 24, and twelve feet high in the centre by five and a quarter feet at the sides. It is glazed at either end, and the roof is sup- ported by seven light iron pillars, the rafters being light. There is a central border, and two paths, but none of the borders are -raised, which I prefer. These large houses should stand endwise N. E. and S. W. ; for if placed N.W. and S. E. some parts are in shade. Nothing 350 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. can well be finer than these large span-roofed houses ; they are most ornamental and productive.* NAMES OF SOME VARIETIES RECOMMENDED FOR IN-DOOR AND OUT-DOOR CULTURE. In the orchard-house, the Red Masculine (Abricot precoce) is a small round-shaped apricot, pale, and musky in flavor. It ripens about the beginning of July, or even earlier in hot seasons. The Large Early (Gros precoce d'Esperen) follows it. It is larger, but not richer in flavor. I have some new varieties from Lombardy, one in particular, large and very early, is far superior to either of these. Then comes the valuable Kaisha, the Syrian importation, which is a most valuable variety — small, but well flavored — sugary, and it is also prolific. Then the Moorpark, a week later, takes you into the middle of August. The Apricot peach closes the list of really useful sorts, though you may add many more, as Beauge, a capital late variety of the Apricot peach ; and if an early sort be required, there are the Musch or the Viard to choose between. Peaches for the Orchard-house. — Here the variety is large, but in reality only a certain number need be cultivated. In countries where the peach bears tolerably out of doors, then the very early and the very late sorts should be selected, although, as was truly said to me the other day, " If you have magnificent Royal George peaches out of doors, you may have the same sort a fortnight earlier in the house, and so the whole crop will not ripen at one time." Now, this is a real advantage, as every peach-grower knows, for I have literally found them fall by scores from my trees during the night, and been obliged to let them perish, they were so bruised and «o common. Nets, in this case, should be spread 18 inches above the ground to catch them. * These arc very suitable dimensions for orchnrd-houses. In our climate, wc should, as a rule, recommend span-roofs, as they are more easily ventilated, and are not so hot as lean-to houses. As wo have so much more sunlight than they have in Great Britain, a position running anywhere between north and south and east and west will do, according to the convenience or position of the garden or grounds. — Ed. AUGUST. 351 But this is ridiculous cultivation, and similar to that in the west of Canada, where, in the peach orchards, the pigs devour the greater part of the fruit beneath the standard trees. So, our object should rather be — "not so much, but better." In the orchard-house, then, the first fruit is the Red Nut- meg, (Avant Peche rouge,) which is a singularly small peach, ripe in July. Then the Early York, an American novelty, is highly spoken of — Mr. Rivers considers it excellent. Then the Acton Scott, an intermarriage between Noblesse and Red Nutmeg. Such are the absurd names given to these fruits. But Acton Scott is useful for early exhibitions ; and though a pale, medium-sized peach, will probably yet hold its ground. The Petite Mignonne comes next, a capital variety, and to connoisseurs, the best early peach. It is rare, however, and is succeeded by the Old Grosse Mignonne, which every one speaks so much of; but I cannot say much for it, as it is every one's duty to speak the truth ; and then the mid-season peaches. Noblesse is a well-known kind to the visitors of Covent Garden. Choose the Sulhampstead variety of this, it being 67/ /<^^ the best, and the hardiest for the open wall, and also forces well. Then the Reine des Vergers, a very good peach (mine ripened early in August this year) ; then Royal George and Red Magdalen — two old friends found in every old garden. After these come the Malta, that excellent peach. Noisette, no mean judge calls it "his favorite ;" and mine this year, even the smallest, were nine inches in circumference. Be- sides, the Malta peach will hang on the tree without falling, an excellent quality in any fruit. It will also be the best to send to your friends at a distance, because it bears carriage the best of any. Then you may have the Chancellor peach ; Rivers and Leroy of Angers call it " excellent," though MacEwen calls it " ugly." It is a long, almond-shaped peach — rather bitter, but otherwise curious, and good. Mine this year were very fine. Then Barrington ; then Bourdine, all September peaches, but in the orchard-house rather earlier; then Wal- burton Admirable, that noble kind, and Desse Tardive — a 352 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. most beautiful, yellow-colored, large variety. I have Belle- garde, (Noire de Montreuil,) which the French rave about. It is excellent, but not first-rate under glass, nor Belle Bauce. Belle de Yitry ripened in September. It is a staple of the Montreuil gardens for the Paris market with Bellegarde, — and I prefer it, — -but the tree is very vigorous, and may ex- ceed your powers to keep it under. Mr. Rivers does not notice it in his catalogue, and you can do without it. Then there are the Pa vie or clingstone peaches ; of which I can only say, that they who make trial of them will discover something worth their labor. My own this year are very fine ; but I cannot retard them as I hoped. Pavie de Ton- neux, " fruit magnifique," (as Leroy says,) ripens a month earlier than was desirable ; but is a noble peach. Many others the amateur will see in catalogues, and will, in time, choose for himself. For the present, I content my- self with stating what I have found very good. I must not omit, however, Pourpree Hative. If you can get it true it is of a most vinous flavor, and Admirable Jaune, a capital peach — yellow — and common at Angers in September. I have three trees of this kind, one full of fruit, but not yet gathered. Also Monstrueuse de Dou^ was very fine indeed from the wall. Tardive d'Espagne, a late pointed peach, is as yet far from ripe, and I have great hopes it will not ripen till late in October. All my desires have been to prolong' the peach season. I found the orchard-house hastens them too much, and a late peach, truly good, is yet a variety to be desired everywhere. One that should be ripe in November, say by the fifth, and yet require no sugar to eat with it, has not yet been found.* Nectarines for the Orchard-house. — Here I enter into the best part of the subject, according to my own ideas, — a ripe nectarine being, as I think, the finest of all fruits, and far * The American cultivator need not be guided by Mr. Brehaut's advice in the selection of varieties, as our American sorts arc, with a few cxccj)tions, belter than the Enf^liwh and French peaches. Tiie Early York has jjroved with Mr. Rivers one of tiie best, and such sorts as ICarly and Late Crawford, Bergen's Yellow, George IV., Coolidgc's Favorite, White Bull, and many others, are not only magiiiliccnt in size and ai)])carancc, but appear better adapted to pot culture than many of the old English and French peaches. — Ed. AUGUST. 353 superior to a peach. As to growing nectarines in tlic open air, it is simply ridiculous, and only answers in extraordinary seasons. In the house, Fairchild's Early is a small but early variety ; then Hunt's Tawny, a distinct, yello\7 nectarine, of not too much flavor, but excellent nevertheless. Then follows rapidly in August, Elruge, (^(Eil-ronge?) a very old sort, as old as Charles II. 's time. It is most useful for exhibiting, as any list proves, and capital for forcing ; but only of medium size. Violette Hative is a very superior variety, excellent for ex- hibition, only medium size, but prolific and good. Pitmaston too is well known. These thi-ee are first-rate. Hardwick Seedling, hardy, firm flesh, a great favorite of mine ; then the Murrey, medium size, immense stone, very racy flavor ; the Due du Telliers, a large prolific kind, very good indeed. The Downton, large and showy, but not so aromatic as the Murrey. The Late Melting, a good late sort for exhibitors. The White is also earlier than some of these, and the New- ington race are all good. The Red Roman is immense, but difficult to soften, and the Stan wick is the best of all. It, however, cracks very much; nevertheless it is very sweet, and the kernel has really no bitter taste, as reported. Mine this year are very fine and numerous, and I think with care they might be grown without fire heat ; otherwise this is the chief of nectarines in every way. It is of Syrian extraction ; and comes, I think, from our consul there. Plums for the Orchard-house. — The Early Favorite (Rivers) ripens the earliest, about the middle of July. Then the St. Etienne about the beginning of August — a sweet yellow plum. Then Denniston's Superb, darker in color, very prolific, and very good. Then the Green Gage for the end of AuguLst; the delicious American Jefferson ; the Reine Claude de Bavay, a splendid plum ; Coe's Golden Drop, first-rate for pots ; the old Quetsche ; the Late Orleans, and Huling's Superb. All these are very good for pot culture, and can be depended on. Pears for the Orchard-house. — In this case each person must select according to his individual taste. Some kinds are really better, as the Brown Beurre, the Josdphine de Malines, the Beurr^ Clairgeau, the Bergamotte d'Esperen, VOL. XXVIII. — NO. VIII. 23 354 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. the Winter Nclis, the Louise Bonne, and the Yan Mons Ldon Leclerc. All these are decidedly good pears. The Winter Nelis and Josephine are the best, according to Mr. Rivers.* The summer pears hardly require protection ; but if in cold localities far north it is wished to have one or two in-doors, then choose the Doyenne d'Ete and the Jargonelle. Apples. — The Newtown Pippin and Northern Spy are the best, and others are readily discovered if required. It must not be forgotten by the amateur, that at least one half of the trees for his orchard-house should be purchased in a bearing state, because by this plan he will have fruit at once, and also have models of what his training the others should be. For out-door culture, the best peaches are Noblesse, Royal George, Grosse Mignonne, Bellegarde, Red Magdalen ; and, of late sorts, Bourdine and Chancellor. The -Elruge, Violette Hative, and Pitmaston orange are the best for out-door cul- ture ; of the nectarines. Apricots. — The Moorpark in favor- able localities, but it is a very shy bearer ; the Roman, the Hermskirke, a nice large variety ; and the hardy Breda, which comes in August, and can be recommended. Alberge de Montgamet is small, early and hardy. The Royal apricot is also a valuable kind. CONCLUDING OBSERVATIONS. This last chapter shall be soon written. By this time, doubtless, the amateur is more than satiated with peremptory precepts. But they were unavoidable. The only alternative was to introduce endless physiological discussions, which it would not have been difficult to do, but which would not have simplified anything. On the other hand, without a few gen- eral principles on which sound training is best conducted, every observation would necessarily have had to be taken on trust. The consolation is, that this defect is common to all * Again Mr. Br^haut's advice is of little valne to American cultivators. To cHltivate Jicrfjiimottc d'Esperen and Jargoncllo, or oven Vnn Mons Leon le (jlcrc and JosOpliiiic do Muliiics, would be to inukc a very jioor scloctiou, when suc.li pours as Marie Louise, Sheldon, Ikurn'' Hardy, Glont Morceau, Brandy- wine, and other equally fine sorts, are to be had. — Ed. AUGUST. 355 books on fruit culture. " The explanations of horticultural operations," says Lindlcy, " are simple, and free from ob- scurity ; provided they are not encumbered with speculations. Chemical illustrations, unless of the simplest kind, or refer- ences to the agency of electricity, liave little obvious applica- tion to practical purposes." The object of a brief work like this, is not to elucidate the laws of vegetable life in all their minute and, it must be freely confessed, obscure details, but to narrate to those already acquainted with the art of horticulture, some experiences, with which they have not had the leisure to become familiar. Certainly there were many most interesting natural phenom- ena which were very tempting to enter into : respecting temperature, for example, a vital point in these matters ; or moisture of soils ; on the periods required by plants for rest, which is a very important subject, and one which that acute observer, Mr. Knight, has so well explained. Certainly, few people appreciate the necessity of diurnal repose for plants, as well as their long rest during the winter months, and thus the pernicious custom of keeping up high temperatures during the night in forcing houses is still too much in favor. This vicious custom exhausts the trees, with- out promoting their growth or aiding the ripening process, and as it bears so directly on the subject treated of here, I cannot refrain from quoting as follows : " As early in the spring as I wanted the blossoms of my peach trees to unfold, my house was made warm during the middle of the day ; but, towards night, it was suffered to cool, and the trees well syringed at as nearly the temperature of the natural exhala- tions as I could."* Under this treatment Mr. Knight's trees flourished, and the blossoms were extremely large, this being a most im- * Truly does Mr. Brehaut call it a " vicious " custom to maintain a high night temperature. Nothing, we have long been convinced, is so injurious to any plants or fruits cultivated under glass, as a high night temperature. The plants must have repose ; and to be kept under constant excitement, night and day, is sure to weaken and eventually ruin them. Except when the weather is very unfavorable, ventilation should be freely given at night as well as during the day. — Ed. 356 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. portaut matter, as the size of the blossom much regulates the size of the fruit. Then the subject of soils is quite endless. It, however, deserves a volume to itself, it is so important. For example, in sandy districts which are so very soon heated, the sand seldom dries deeper than ten or twelve inches, while sea-salt becomes damp at night. On the other hand, clay heats very slowly, besides being too compact for the spongioles to penetrate, and retaining water. It has, therefore, every bad quality. Sand, however, dries up too rapidly to be suitable by itself. A mean between these ex- treme cases is, therefore, of general use, with the addition of peat. These exercise separate and counteracting influences. The loam consolidates ; the sand lightens ; and the peat unites. This is, therefore, a perfect mixture. Nevertheless, that loam which has the most calcareous matter is far the best, for calcareous earth enters largely into the organization of plants. It also, according to Davy, de- pends on the action of the lime and vegetable matter together. Manures act, either by stimulating, by absorbing the moisture, or by supplying food, i. e., carbon and nitrogen. Carbonic acid, at least, forms an essential part of the substances of plants. It is, however, proper to apply manure when the plants are rapidly growing, and to those parts which can absorb it, and not, as a great many do, at the stems of the trees. The fall of rain furnishes the observer with many most interesting phenomena for remark, and thus horticulture leads the inquirer into many paths he would otherwise never have trod. Less rain will certainly fall on the top of the house than falls on the surface of the ground. The average of downpour of a day and night is one inch of water ; but in the west of England it is one third more, and in the lake districts double the quantity. It is also remarkable how a liigh tem})urature with a southwest Avind will absorb the vapors, and cause a delicious temperature, most healthy for men as well as for ])lants. Eut the climate of England is certainly very moist, ;in(l every precaution must be taken to carry away the supiu/hiuus waters from the borders. AUGUST. 357 Ventilation is an inexhaustible subject, and one of much moment to the horticulturist. In the orchard-house, how- ever, it is much simplified, though I see that Mr. Rivers recommends fewer top ventilators than were of use at first, and certainly cold currents of air, especially if charged with excessive moisture, cannot be suitable to peach culture. Pre- cautions must therefore be taken to guard against these, as also against strong winds acting directly on the ripened fruit. Ventilation is chiefly necessary to carry off noxious vapors, and it is inconceivable how soon these are generated. A minute quantity of sulphurous acid will cause every leaf in the 'house to drop in a day. In forcing-houses ventilation in the spring is rather injurious than beneficial. When the air is charged with moisture it is more suitable for plants in a growing state than when they are ready to rest. " The skilful balancing of the temperature and moisture of the air, and a just adaptation of them to the various seasons of growth, constitutes the most complicated part of a gardener's art." — Lindley^s Theory of Horticulture. Enough, however, has been said on these subjects, and perhaps by this time the reader is reduced to that condition in which Horace, anxious to prepare for his supper party, querulously tells his servant, " Persicos odi, puer, apparatus," which, as the botanical name of the peach is " Persica," may be thus rendered : " Gardener, I am sick of your peach training." , The principal suggestions are — summer pinching reduced to a method, and perfected in the winter pruning of peaches on the alternate system ; and the placing the trees diagonally at short intervals. I have not dwelt much on the obvious advantage of being able in this way to occupy a valuable wall with a succession of fruits, precious to the cultivator as this must be, because it seemed to me that the being able to shorten the period in which the wall space could be covered with fruitfnl wood, completely overshadowed other considera- tions, for in horticulture, as in other matters, the gain of a year is of inestimable value. I only wish, therefore, to say that no apprehension need be entertained of the shoots on the leaders becoming too long to 358 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. manage, (an apprehension, bj-the-bj, not without its cause, for Mr. Rivers writes to me on this siibject, tliat he finds these very shoots " always fighting to get away from the tree,") but by merely allowing a few leaves to grow beyond the long bearing shoot, (as in the vine,) and by cutting it back to two buds directly after bearing, the shoots can be kept compact, fruitful, and close to the main stem. In all these cases, the reader will readily have discerned that my favorite is the Diagonal Cordon, but with the ex- ception of the growth on the lower sides of this form being weaker than those on the upper, the management of the spurs and shoots is the same in all cases. I have had much pleasure in writing this book, but at the close I feel that others will profit by my hints, and tliat I must exert myself if I wish to keep pace with them in the friendly race. Having thus concluded this little treatise of Mr. Brehaut, we again commend it to the attention of all cultivators of fruit, whether in orchard-houses or the open air. Several of his observations have no application in our climate, but the general principles of culture as laid down are sound, and show that the author has been a very close observer of the growth and characteristics of trees. It occurred to us, as the sheets were passing through the press, that a work so especially adapted to the treatment of orchard-houses, now attracting so much attention, ought to be generally read ; and as thus far our own cultivators have had but little experience, such advice as would lead them in the right direction would be highly prized. We therefore had a few Imndrcd extra sheets struck off, whicli wo sluill issue in a small volume, offernig some general remarks, and adding thereto some account of tlie Single Cordon system of train- ing trees, and a list of the varieties of fruits best suited to orchard cultivation. The volume will 1)C issued in October. AUGUST. 359 POMOLOGICAL GOSSIP. The Strawberry. — The season has been unusually favor- able for the strawberry, and the crop was not only very abundant, but large and fine. Constant showers of rain during the entire fruiting season, carried the crop through to a late period. We had intended to give some analysis of the various opinions expressed by different cultivators in regard to some of the prominent varieties ; but they are so conflicting, and would occupy so miich space, that we can only allude to a few of them. Fortunately we have this in part done for us by Mr. Barry of Rochester, who happened to be in Boston just as the strawberries were in perfection, and his remarks are generally so correct and to the point in question, that we are relieved of the labor of collating from other sources. Mr. Barry writes as follows in the Rural New Yorker : — " There seems to be an unusual degree of interest mani- fested this season, in nearly all parts of the country, in regard to strawberry culture and the merits of the different varieties in cultivation. The severe drought we experienced in this section injured our early varieties particularly, and the mar- ket supply has been of rather an inferior quality. Wilson's Albany and Triomphe de Gand seem to be regarded as the most important varieties, and are most extensively planted ;. but I hope our growers will not be confined to these. Long- worth's Prolific and Hovey's Seedling are famous market fruits, and should not be overlooked. " The publishers of the American Agriculturist recently offered fifty dollars in premiums for strawberries, and I under- stand that the Albany and Triomphe de Gand were the lead- ing sorts, and carried off the highest premiums. Hovey's Seedling was not even presented. " A friend writes from St. Louis, June 24, that the Albany is more largely planted there than any other variety, but thinks it will soon be supplanted by others of better quality. Triomphe de Gand, he says, does very well. Downer's Prolific does well, and is as early as Jenny Lind. Washington (Iowa) .360 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. has been heretofore more extensively grown than any other at that place, and so it has been at Cincinnati. " A gentleman writes from Bloomington, III., that Wilson's Albany is ' very far ahead yet — no other sort within gunshot of it.' " Mr. John Saul, of Washington, who has given much attention to the culture of the foreign varieties, gives the following as their best, in the order named : Seedling Eliza, Triomphe de Gand, Victoria, and Jucunda, and adds that a sight of the Victorias and Triomphe de Gands grown this season in gardens there, were worth a journey of many miles to see. " At Baltimore I am told that the markets are mainly sup- plied with Hovey's Seedling and Early Scarlet, with a few McAvoy's Superior and Fillmore. " At Boston both growers and dealers claim the highest rank for Hovey's Seedling. I was in that city on the 27th of June, and in passing around, the streets I noticed in all the fruit shops and other places where fruit was exposed for sale, large quantities of beautiful Hovey's Seedling, and rarely anything else. In the hotels, too, Hovey's Seedling had no rival on the dessert table. The difference between these splejidid fruits displayed in the markets and on the tables in Boston, and the small miscellaneous trash which you find in New York, is really wonderful. The retail price in Boston for Hovey's was thirty cents per box, less than a quart, and one dealer told me that he could not sell Wilson's Albany at any price. The taste of the Boston people has been cultivated to a higli standard of excellence, in a great measure, no doubt, through tlie influence of the Massachusetts Horticultural So- ciety. Triomphe de Gand has not been fruited there yet to any extent — for some reason or other, Boston, with all her zeal for novelties, has been the last place to take up Triomj)he de Gand. We shall hear what they will say about it next year, as many plantations are now coming forward. " I had the jjleasure of attending Mr. Hovey's annual straw- berry festival, which proved to l)c a most agreeable and in- structive entertainment. The company first made a hasty survey of the grounds, which are in fine keeping, and ex- AUGUST. 361 ceedingly rich in rare trees and plants. In the pot plant department, we were conducted into a small tent, where there was on exhibition a collection of Cape heaths — mag- nificent plants in size, symmetry of form, and profusion of blossom. " The rhododendron and kalmia grounds were visited. The beds of kalmias were one mass of flowers — a sight well worth seeing. The long lines of beautiful specimen pear trees were passed, Mr. Hovey pointing out his favorites. The crop is in a most promising state. " The strawberries were then visited in the beds, and each variety passed in review. The collection is very rich, especially in foreign varieties. Admiral Dundas, Ambrosia, Bonte de St. Julien, Due de Malakoff, Empress Eugenie, La Constante, Oscar, Rivers' Eliza, Wonderful, &c. All these and many others were well grown, and carefully protected from birds by netting. Several of these are very promising. Some berries of the Empress Eugenie were of enormous size, but the most promising of all appeared to me to be the Constante. It has the vigorous and prolific character of the Triomphe de Gand, and is superior in flavor. It will surely become popular. " Among American varieties the Austin Seedling shows well as to size and quality of fruit, but the color is poor and the flavor indifferent. I find it the same in our grounds, and it is not likely to become a standard sort. " Wilson's Albany was not in a condition to be judged. The beds had evidently not received the same care bestowed upon the others. Hovey's Seedling and Boston Pine were very satisfactory, the former, especially, surpassing all the other American varieties. Triomphe de Gand was not in the collection in fruit. " Having satisfied ourselves with an examination of the strawberries in the beds, we proceeded to Mr. Hovey's man- sion, where we found a table bountifully spread for us with dishes of all the different varieties of strawberries named, accompanied with numerous other comforts befitting such an occasion. " The varieties were all taken up in turn, tasted and dis- 362 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. cussed in the most critical manner, the feast closing up with two superb dishes of Hovey's Seedling, which it was believed did not suffer by comparison with any of the fine varieties previously tasted. " The Belmont Farmers' Club had announced its annual strawberry exhibition for tlie 1st of July, and I regretted very much being unable to prolong my stay in Boston until that time, as this club makes a superb display. " The fruit crop around Boston is very promising. The exhibition next fall, during the meeting of the Pomological Society, will undoubtedly surpass anything of the kind ever seen in this or any other country, and will itself be worth a journey of tliousands of miles. I observed in the collections of Col. Wilder, ani also in that of Messrs. Hovey & Co., many new varieties in fruit that have not yet been exliibited. Delegates to the pomological meeting may expect a good time. " Mr. Wilder is pursuing the culture of Roger's Hybrid grapes with enthusiasm. I observed a second generation, some of which resemble in foliage foreign varieties. This Roger's experiment in hybridization may yet lead to results of immense importance to American grape culture. " My notes are already too long, I fear, and I will defer the remainder to a future time." Mr. Barry is an intelligent cultivator and a careful ol)- server. The New York strawberry growers ought to tliank him for his just remark in regard to the " miscellaneous trash which you find in New York." Tlie strawbeny seat^on is two weeks earlier in New York and New Jersey than our own ; and thousands of baskets are sold in our market before the crop is ]'ipe here. The usual price is twenty to thirty cents per quart, and they would not be bought at all if there was any clioice. Now if these same growers would send fine Hovey's Seedling, they would command fifty to seventy-five cents a quart — a difference in the aggregate of the straw- berries nent to Boston of thousands of dollars. Wc only regret Mr. Barry did not visit the Beluiont culti- vators and witness their mode of culture, and satisfy himself of the enormous crops of the magnilicent fruit which he AUGUST. 363 everywhere saw offered for sale. No amount of talk or even statement of quantity would be like the self-evident fact — seen by one's own eye. Profitable Strawberry Culture. — For the last two or three years we could hardly open an agricultural paper with- out seeing some notice of Mr. Knox's strawberry culture ; of his great crops; of his supplying the markets of Philadelphia, New York, Cincinnati, in fact the whole country except Bos- ton, travelling 500 or 600 miles without injury. His Wilson's bore 300 bushels to the acre, and sold more readily than any any other variety. His advice, two years ago, was to plant nothing bat the Wilson for profit. All at once it appears he has discovered the Triomphe de Gand, — an old sort, tried in Boston a dozen years ago, discarded in Europe, — to be the strawberry ; and according to a writer in the Country Gentle- man, who also had the Wilson-mania two years ago, he has actually been " ploughing under many acres of other varieties, in full bearing, during the present season, to replace them with this !" It seems that the Triomphe de Gand " combines in itself all the excellences of all the best varieties. Among the good qualities which recommend it are, its immense size, superior flavor, prolificness, (equalling if not surpassing the Wilson in this respect,) the solidity of its fruit, its color and fine appear- ance, the length of its fruiting season," inion the following, and tlicse we believe will disappoint no one who may grow them, if they prove at all like what they have been this year: — Of Spotted sorts. — Monitor, Landseer, Caliban. Of Subspotted sorts. — Bell of the Ball, Royalty, Merrimac. SEPTEMBER. 415 Of Purples. — Lord Palmerston. Of Roses. — Royal Albert, Regina formosa, Canopus, Inter- national. Of Crimson-reds. — Conflagration, Illuminator, Vesuvius. Of Lights. — Eurydice, Oriana. Of Whites. — Queen of Whites. — ( Gard. Chron.') 636. Physurus maculatus Hook. Spotted Physurus. (Orchidese.) Eucador. An orchidoous iilant; growing six inches high; with whitish llowers; appearing in winter. Bot. Mag., IS62, pi. 5305. A rather pretty species, which flowered in November last, growing six or eight inches high, with short spikes of whitish flowers. The leaves are narrow, deep green, spotted with white. (^Bot. Mag-., April.) 637. Ceropegia Gardneri, Thwaites. Mr. Gardner's Ce- ROPEGiA. (Asclepiadeae.) Ceylon. A stove climber; growing six feet high; with spotted flowers; appearing in winter; increased by cuttings ; grown in light peaty soil. Bot Ma?., 18o2, pi. 5306. One of the prettiest of the Ceropegias, having quite large flowers, which are white, and very conspicuously spotted with brown ; appearing in clusters at the axils of the leaves. It is very ornamental, and worthy of cultivation. (^Bot. Mag., April.) 638. SciLLA Berthelotii Webb. Berthelott's Squill. (Liliaceae.) Africa. A hothouse bulb; growing afoot high; with pink flowers; flowering in December; increased by offsets. Bot. Mag., J8d2, pi, 5308. A rather insignificant species, found in the tropics, only four degrees from the Equator, all the other species being from temperate climes. It is only interesting on account of its locality. (^Bot. Mag., April.) 639. Begonia prismatocarpa Hook. Prism-fruited Be- gonia. (Begoniacese.) Western Africa. A greenhouse plant; growing four inches high; with yellow flowers; appearing in winter; in- cre Habroihamnus elegans. — This is a plant for everybody — nearly hardy, and as easily kept as a cytisus or veronica. When in bloom the carmine flowers are truly magnificent. It is one of the best plants for a pillar or conservatory wall, but needs shade in Juno, .luly, and August. Soil, turfy peat, and yellow loam. Prune after flowering. — {Flor. Cab.) Summer Roses. — In speaking of the late Rose Show, at the British Hor- ticultural Society's Gardens, you say, " Both auiong old and new varieties the exhibition of the 20th ult. offered unmistakable evidence that the race of the hybrid perpetual is the dominant one, if it be not indeed destined to become almost the exclusive occupant of our rosariuui." As a patron of the rosarium, as a patron of that truly fairy scene, a rosarium in full bloom — not a few ])ets in |)ofs, but a well-iirrangcd garden of roses — let ine say a few words for the Caliicas, the Hybrid Chinas, and Hybrid Bour- 4 SEPTEMBER. 427 bons, for those sorts that usually pass under the name of " summer roses." These pets in pots may be all very well for the rose shows at Kensington, or the Regent's Park ; but for the rosarium, to denude it of the summer roses would be to rob it of three fourths of its beauty and splendor. It is now six weeks since the blooming began, and while many a Hybrid Per- petual has shed its half dozen or dozen blooms, and has only a few fading loaves left, the simimer roses are many of them still gay, after showing double as many blooms at the same time, during four or five weeks. Where is the Hybrid Perpetual, such as Leopold de Beauffremont, which, on a standard of four or five feet, will carry a head nearly as big as a carriage umbrella, with its .50 or more blooms out at the same time, and keep that up for a month ? It is to those only who reside in the country during what is called the height of the London season, that these real glories of the flower garden are capable of being thoroughly known and appreciated. As individual flowers it would be difficult to find the peers or peeresses of such roses as Senateur Vaisse, Comtesse de Chabrillant, Mrs. Rivers, Madame Vidot, Wm. Griffith, Prince Leon, Victor Verdier, G6ant des Battailles, Gen. Jacqueminot, and others that might be named. And with these, with the constitution of Baronne Prevost, we might, per- haps, keep up the splendor of the rosarium, without the help of the summer roses — size, shape, and color, from the delicate blush to the fiery crimson. But, while in the summer roses we have every shade, from Madlle. Loutman and Blanchefleur, to Ohl and Boule de Nanteuil, let us hope the summer roses will still find their place in what is deserving of being called a rosarium. In form alone can the summer roses be said to be inferior ; while in variety of color, in profuseness of bloom, in richness of perfume, and above all in vigor of constitution, they fiir surpass the Hybrid Perpet- uals, as a class. In the famous winter of 1860-01, I scarcely lost a sum- mer rose, while the Hybrid Perpetuals disappeared by hundreds. Allow me to say thus much in vindication of the summer rose. — [Gard. Chron.) Bambusa Metake.— This hardy bamboo, we are glad to see, is duly appreciated' by English amateurs. Mr. Bateman, of Biddulph Grange, has introduced it into his magnificent grounds, and it is thus alluded to in a notice of the place : — " This plant is quite invaluable to garden scenery. It grows and spreads rapidly either in dry land, or near the edge of water. Here it is twelve feet high, and will probably grow much tall'er." — ( Gard. Chron.) LiLiDM AURATUM. — From your description of this lily it would appear that a native specimen of that plant is not among the lot I gave you when I came home. The plant was difficult to dig, and out of eight or ten specimens put in I was only able to save the fragments of two. One of them I now send you. Instead of growing only two feet in height it is usually four, and produces, often, three, four, and five of its large blossoms on the top of the stem. It flowers during the hottest time of the year, from the end of June to the beginning of August. I rather suspect it to be the 428 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. great grent-grandmother of L. speciosum. Liliuni tigrinum is the species usually eaten tiy the natives, both in Japan and China. — (R. Fortdne. — Gard. Chron.) Gossip of \\t Pontj). Exhibition of Strawberries, at the American Agriculturist Office, New York, on June 20 and 21. There were 24 contributors, only about half of whom had their fruit on the stands in time for the awarding of premiums, the early hour of 10 o'clock being fixed upon therefor. Among these were Messrs. Marshall, Heins, Goldsmith, Fuller, Burgess, Strong, Colgate, Shaw, Drummond, Saxton, and three or four others. Of these, Messrs. Marshall had the largest nu rber, and Mr. Heins and Mr. Burgess had the moj=t splendid specimens. In the afternoon all the other tables were filled by other contributors, among which was the grent collection of Prince & Co., con- sisting of 72 select varieties. In Messrs. Marshall's collection were Triomphe de Gand, Rivers's Eliza, Constantia, Due de Brabant, McAvoy's Red, a small red Elton, Cole's Prolitic. Brighton Pine, Scott's Seedling, Bicton Pine, Madame Louesse, Black Prince, Voorhis Seealing, General Havelock, Delice d'Automne, Jenny's Seedling, Genessee, Early Scarlet, Willey, Trollope's Victoria or Boyden's Mammoth, Chorlton's Prolific, Wilson, Austin, West Chester, Golden Seeded, British Queen (not Myatt's), Fillbasket, Duchesse, supposed to be Wilson, Ohio Mammoth, Bartlett, same as Boston Pine, Walker, Prince's Magnate and Climax, and Fragrant Scarlet, Monroe Scarlet, Jenny Lind, Prince's Diadem, Downer's Prolific, Duchesse Brabant. Mr. W. F. Heins exhibited the largest Triomphe de Gand, Lennig's White, Heins' Cherry Colored, Chorlton's Prolific, Athlete, small, Le Baron, very fine, and many others of the largest size. W. A. Burgess, of Long Island, exhibited many splendid varieties, including five new seedlings. Professor Huntsman, of Flushing, exhibited several splen- did seedlings, yet unnimpd. Mr. Fuller exhibited Trollope's Victoria, Triompha de Gand, Schiller, Rivers' Eliza and two large seedlings, but acid. C. M. Saxton exhibited Meade's Seedling. Several persons exhib- ited Knox's British Queen, which proved to be Rivers' Eliza. Mr. Drum- mond had Jenny Lind and a very large White, supposed Deptford. Mr. Pell, of Orphan Asylum, and Rev. L. M. Reuse, of Mount Vernon, had several splendid and well-grown varieties, but both too lute for premiums. Geo. F. My(!r and J. C. Thomson sent fine varieties. Prince «fc Co. filled all the space that was allowed thoin, among which weie the following: — Amkrican Varieties. — American May Queen, Ophelia, Primate, Ariadne, Scarlet Magnate, Sirins, Chili, two varieties, Stewart. Suprema Diadem, Victorine, Welcome, Austin, Scarlet Prize, Scarlet Melting, Lo Baron, Prince's Late Globose, Fortunatus, Jenny Lind, Globose Scarlet, SEPTEMBER. 429 Hooker, Lennig's White, Hovey, most splendid specimens, Fillmore, True Hudson's Bay, Imperial Scarlet, Ladies' Pine, Perfumed Cone, Malvina, Rosalind, McAvoy's Superior. European Varieties — Pines. — Rntrlish Ladies' Finger, Triomphe de Gand, Comtesse de Beaumont, La Sultanne, Emrna, La Constance, very superior, Lucas, Marguerite, Orb, Oscar, Prince Imperial, Wizard of North, Ingram's Rifleman, Empress Eugenie, Frogmore late Pine, Delices du Palais, Robert Trail, Ingram's Prince Arthur, &C. Also, 8 varieties of Haiitbois and Alpine varieties, and 14 very large and high-flavored seedlings, 8 of which were of the Pine family. Parsons & Co. exhibited Triomphe de Gand and Cutter's Seedling. — P. [We are glad to see our neighbors have variety enough — though ihe very best may not be among them — but what the object of cultivating so many ■worthless and rejected sorts, tried and thrown away, around Boston, 18 or 20 years ago, we are at a loss to know. We hope, however, the effect of such a show will be to do away with the "miscellaneous trash," as Mr. Barry justly calls it, which fills the market in New York, and finds its way to Boston, in considerable quantities. — Ed.] :;tl Bm Saturday, June 21. — The Summer Exhibition of Roses took place today. The number of exhibitors was much smaller than usual, but the roses were never presented in finer condition. Hybrid Perpetuals were more numerous than heretofore, and in finer or- der. With the new and really beautiful acquisitions which have been made to this class, they are becoming greater favorites. The flat, hard- eyed and indifferent colored old sorts, are giving way to the globular, cupped and brilliant colored new kinds, of which Gen. Jacqueminot and Lselia, may be mentioned as examples. Roses were exhibited by Messrs. Hovey & Co., Spooner & Parkman, W. C. Strong, J. C. Chafiin, Jas. Nugent, J. McTier, and others. Twenty-four Hybrid Perpetuals, from Hovey & Co., which were awarded the first prize, contained Glorie de Lyon, Gen. Jacqueminot, Baron Prevost, Jules Margottin, Lord Raglan, Lselia, Auguste Mie, La Reine, Lion des Combats, Duchess de Cambaceres, Mad. Knorr, Queen Victoria, Lady Francis Waldegrove, Caroline de Sansal, Duchess of Sutherland, Prince Kostchonby, Geant de Batailles, Pie IX., Anna des Diesbach, Souvenir Reine d'Angleterre, Oriflame, St. Louis, Sydonie, and Souvenir de Leveson Gower. J. C. Chaffin was awarded the second prize, with a very fine collection, many of them the same varieties. The best twenty summer roses came from Messrs. Hovey & Co., and contained Shakespeare, Mad. Hardy, Mad. Legras, Mad. Plantier, Boula de 430 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Nanteuil, Coupe d'Hebe, Walter Scott, George IV., Tricolor de Flandres, Caesar Beccari, (striped,) Paul Ricaut, L'Obscurite, Paul Perras, Richelieu, La Ville de Bruxelles, Louise Leker, Annable, Thurette, Margaret and Mary, and Chenedole. Fruit. — The show of strawberries was very fine. Messrs. Hovey & Co. sent La Constante, Empress Eugenie, Ad. Dundas, La Sultanne, Ambrosia, Marguerite, Boston Pine, Hovey's Seedling, and Austin. The Empress Eugenie was very large, weighing more than La Constante, but coxcomb shape, and not so handsome. The Constante were superb specimens of the best foreign strawberries yet introduced into this country. Other exhibit- ors had Triomphe de Gand, Hovey's Seedling, and Victoria. July 1. — The stated quarterly meeting was held to-day, — the President in the chair. The Executive Committee reported that the Recording Secretary be paid fifty dollars a year, including the three previous years. Adjourned one month, to August. August \. — The Committee on Fruit awarded the following premiums: — AWARD OF PREMIUMS FOR FRUIT. Cherries. — For the best 2 quarts, to P. J. Stone, for Black Tartarian, ^4. For the next best, to William Baacon, for Black Tartarian, $3. For the next best, to H. Davis, for Black Tartarian, $2. Grapes. — For the best, before July 1, to R. W. Turner, $8. For the next best, to Mrs. F. B. Durfee, $6. For the next best, to J. Breck, $4, Peaches. — For the best, to C. S. Holbrook, for Late Crawford, $6. For the next best, to O. Bennett, for Early Crawford, $5. For the next best, to C. J. Power, for Barnard's Early, ^4. Strawberries. — For the best display, to Hovey & Co., $10. For the best collection, to Hovey &. Co., $6. For the best 2 quarts, to Hovey & Co., for La Constante, $5. For the next best, to J. W. Foster, for Triomphe de Gand, $'4. , For the next best, to W. C. Strong, for Triomphe de Gand, $3. For the next best, to J. W. Foster, for Jenny Lind, $2. iorticultural ^jtrations FOR SEPTEMBER. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. Continued favorable weather, with just the right amount of heat and sun, and rain, has forwarded vegetation, and given it a vigor rarely, if ever, surpassed in our climate. The season has been truly propitious. Grape Vines, in the earlier houses, should be pruned preparatory to renewed forcing in October or November. Give the usual attention to SEPTEMBER. 431 washing and cleaning the vines. Later houses will now have their crop fully matured, or partially gathered, and will require but little care. Cold houses will begin to ripen their crop, and should be looked after attentively, though danger of mildew is mostly over. Care should be taken, however, to ripen the wood thoroughly, on which, in fact, a good crop depends. Give air freely in good weather ; stop the laterals, as they grow too far, and discontinue all superfluous watering. Young, or new planted houses should be shut up early, to maintain a moderate growth. Strawberry Beds will continue to need attention, as it is this month that the plants make great progress. Keep down all weeds, and lay in the runners, or cut them, according to the mode of growth. Summer Pruning should be mostly discontinued, after the commence- ment of September. Gathering Fruit will be a prominent occupation this month. Pick when the fruit is dry, and pack away in boxes, or lay upon shelves, in a close room. Fruit Trees, in pots, should now be more sparingly watered, so as to secure well-ripened wood. In long-continued rains it is well to turn the pots upon their sides. Currant Bushes may be transplanted the last of the month. Orchard Houses should have an abundance of air, night and day, unless in heavy rains, or exceedingly cool nights. Water with liquid manure, trees bearing heavy crops. flower department. September should find the industrious gardener laying his plans for the winter. With the houses all in order, and soils prepared, the work of potting and housing is much more quickly done. The last of the month is generally too cool for many plants, and such as are liable to injury should be put in before cold nights. Propagation should be continued, and everything done to prevent hurry at the close of the month. Azaleas should now have completed their growth and set their buds, and as soon as this is ascertained, the sooner they are removed to the open air the better, selecting a sheltered place, where they can have the full benefit of the sun and air, to ripen their wood. Tie the plants into shape, if not already done. Water moderately, and remove to the house before frosty nights. Camellias may have a more sunny situation, to mature their growth, syringing them every day. Repotting may be continued when the plants require it. Cuttings may be put in now. Remove the plants to the house before frosty nights. Cinerarias, if well established, should be repotted, and kept in a frame. Pot off young seedlings, using light rich soil. Keep off the green fly, by fumigation. Heaths, and similar plants, growing in the open ground, should be potted and removed to a frame. 432 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Pelargoniums should have attention. Remove the plants to the house in good season ; and place them near the light, where they will have plenty of air, and but little water. Young stock will require the same attention. Chrysanthemums must now be freely supplied with liquid manure, in order to ensure a vigorous growth, and plenty of flowers. Remove to frames, or the house, before heavy frosts. Roses should be potted, giving them the protection of a frame for a few days. Orange Trees should be removed to the house in good season. Fuchsias should be watered occasionally, with liquid manure. Repot, if the plants require it. IxiAs, and other winter flowering bulbs, may be potted this month. Monthly Carnations, planted out in the ground, should be taken up and potted. Bouvardias, for winter blooming, may be repotted. Heliotropes and VEhBENAS should be repotted. Begonias, of the flowering kinds, should be repotted. AcHiMENES, going out of bloom, miy be placed away, under the stage on a dry shelf. Tuberoses should be removed to the house, before cool nights. Propagate Bedding Plants of all kinds. Cannas, and other tender plants, put out in beds, should be taken up and placed in pots, or boxes, before severe frosts. Winter Flowering Plants should be encouraged to make a good growth, and, before frost, all should be shifted or potted, and have the pro- tection of a frame till well established. Caladiums, Begonias, and o'her stove .plants, should be allowed to die off gradually, by withholding water, according to the wants of the plant. Chinese Hibiscus, planted out in the border, should be taken up and potted. Ferns should now be freely syringed, and encouraged in their growth. Collect and prepare Soils for use during the winter. FLOWER GARDEN AND SHRUBBERY. The fine weather, and abundant rains, have kept the lawn in excellent condition, requiring frequent rolling and cutting. Continue to give it every attention, rolling and cutting as long as there is any growth. . Clean, rake, and roll the walks. Carn>vtions AND PicoTEES should be removed to a well prepared bed, whore they can have the protection of a frame. Tuberoses should be removed to the house, bufore severe frosts. Dahlias will require pruning and tying up, as tiiey proceed in growth ; thin out the buds, if fine show flowers are wanted. Herbaceous Plants, of many kinds, may be divided and reset this montii. Pansy Seed, for early spring flowering, may be planted now. AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. This Society has just closed its Nintli Session, wliicli was held in this city tlie past month. In these excithig times, it was feared the meeting would not be so large and interesting as those which have preceded it ; but fortunately such antici- pations were not well founded ; on the contrary, tlie attend- ance was very large, comprising nearly two hundred mem- bers and delegates from the sixteen loyal States. And it is a matter of congratulation with all pomologists that, notwith- standing the perilous times in which we live, the science of fruit culture has not been neglected, nor the interest in the subject suffered any diminution. Eighteen years have only seemed to renew tlie exertions of the older members, and in- cited the younger to more active labors in promoting the objects of the Society. In some respects the meeting was one of more interest than any of the previous sessions. Conformably to a vote at the last meeting, held in Philadelphia, in 1860, the General Fruit Committee laid before the Society a Catalogue of Fruits, prepared by them, under the supervision of Mr, P. Barry, from the Reports of the various State Committees, giving the names of all the fruits recommended by them, alphabetically arranged, in tabular form, showing, at one view, all the dif- ferent states or localities, thirty-five in number, where each fruit succeeds, or has become the most popular in cultivation. Though we do not attach so much importance to these local lists as some cultivators do, the preparation of the Catalogue has been a work of great labor, and it will prove a valuable source of reference, in regard to the several varieties enu- merated, as well as a material aid in the selection of kinds suited, so far as the experience goes, to the various localities. It at least shows what fruits have been raised most success- fully, though others, if as fully tried, might be just as certain of equal results. VOL. XXVIII. — NO. X. 28 434 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. We have not time or space now to go into an examination of the Catalogue, and give a summary of its results. This we shall endeavor to do at another opportunity. Thirty-five different localities are enumerated, north of the southern line of Virginia, Tennessee and Missouri, and in whichever of these localities any fruit is the most popular, or has been recom- mended as such by the State Committees — some of whose re- ports, however, have been very meagre — such fruit is indicated by a star (*), or if of very great superiority, by two stars. As regards the qualities of the fruits, such as are particularly adapted to marketing are so indicated by the letter M., and in regard to seasons of ripening, summer, autumn, and win- ter are indicated by the letters, S. summer, A. autumn, and W. winter, or E. S. early summer, &c. Thus, at one glance, the cultivator can learn the character of all the popular fruits in the United States, and can form some idea of the sorts which he may rely upon when making a larger or smaller plantation of trees, either for the market, or for home use. Next in interest was the President's Address, which, as usual, was replete with pomological research. He reviewed the progress the previous two years, and enlarged upon va- rious subjects of great interest to the cultivator, and offered suggestions in regard to further experiments. We copy, with pleasure, some of the more important of these sugges- tions, and commend them to the attention of our readers : — THINNING OF FRUITS. One lesson which experience has taught us, is the impor- tance of thinning the fruit, especially of apples and pears. This branch of Pomology has received comparatively but little attention. There is a limit to the capabilities of all created things. If you tax the energies of an animal too severely for a long time, tlic result will be premature age and decay. Subject any vegetable or mineral substance to too great pressure, and you destroy its power of cohesion. So if you permit a tree to bear beyond its strength, you injure its fruit, retard its growth, and shorten its life. All have ob- served that supcrfecundity one year produces barrenness the OCTOBER. 435 next. Hence we heq,r among our farmers and gardeners of what they term the bearing year. They invariably designate the Baldwin apple as a tree that bears on alternate years. But is not the cause of this alternation found in the fact, that the abundant crop of the bearing year exhausts the energies of the tree, and absorbs the pabulum so as not to leave suffi- cient aliment for the formation of fruit spurs for the succeed- ing year ? Many varieties have a tendency to overbearing, especially those which produce their fruit in clusters. Nature herself teaches us the remedy for this evil, and a superabun- dance of blossom is generally followed by a profuse falling of the embryo fruit. When and where this dropping is not suf- ficient to prevent overbearing, we should resort to the process of relieving the tree of a portion of its fruit. The organism which carries on healthful development, in order to repeat its cycle of functions from year to year, cannot be overworked without time for recuperation. Whatever of nutrition goes to the support of useless branches, or a redun- dancy of fruit, abstracts that strength from the tree which would otherwise be appropriated to the perfection of the crop, and the development of the spurs which would bear fruit the next year. One of the best cultivators in the vicinity of Boston has reduced this theory to practice, with the happiest effect, in the cultivation of the pear. His system allows no useless wood, nor more fruit spurs, and no more fruit, than the tree can properly sustain. As a consequence, he produces every year superior fruit, which commands the highest price. Some have doubted whether this practice can be made remunera- tive, except in its application to the finer fruits. But another cultivator, who raises an annual crop of the best apples, as- sures us that the secret of his success is the thinning of the fruit, and he has no doubt of the economy of the practice. No good farmer doubts the necessity of thinning his root crops, no vig-neron the propriety of thinning his grapes. Analogy of cultivation, therefore, justifies the practice, and I entertain no question of its great importance. Light, air, and moisture, are essential to the production of vegetable products, and especially of fine fruits. W^ho has not observed that the best specimens of fruits on a tree are 436 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. ordinarily those which are most exposed to these elements ? Who does not select the full sized ruddy fruit, which has had free communion with light, heat, and air, in preference to the half fed specimen wliich has shared its own proper nour- ishment with five or six crowded rivals on the same spur ? An experienced English cultivator says : " The bending of branches of trees by an overcrop of fruit is most injurious, for the pores of the woody stalk are strained on the one side of the bend, and compressed on the other ; hence the vessels through which the requisite nourishment flows being par- tially shut up, the growth of the fruit is retarded in propor- tion to the straining and compression of the stalk." This is illustrated in the overbearing of some varieties, which, from a redundancy of fruit, witliout the process of early and thor- ough thinning, seldom produce good specimens, and in a few years become stinted and unhealthy trees. The overbearing of a tree is as much a tax upon its energies and constitution, as is the exhaustion of a field by excessive crops of the same kind, year after year, without a return of nutritive materials. Inexhaustible fertility is a chimera of the imagination. Sooner or later, the richest soils will require a restoration of what has been abstracted by vegetation. However fertile at first, the constant overcropping of the soil is a reduction of the elements on which health and fruitfulness depend. This great principle of siistenance and reciprocal relation runs througli the whole mass of life, of mind, and of matter. " One cry with never ceasing sound, Circles Creation's ample round." Intimately connected with this process of thinning, is the time when tlie work sliould be executed. It should not be done before we can distinguish the choicest specimens in a cluster of fruit, nor delayed so long as to waste the energies of the tree. This practice, judiciously followed, will super- sede the necessity of staying up the branches, will ])revent injury to the tree by their breaking, and will prove decidedly economical. Associated witli the thinning of fruits is the expediency of gathering a part of the crop as soon as it approaches maturity. The remaining specimens will thereby be much increased in OCTOBER. 437 size and excellence. The fruit of a tree does not all come to maturity at tlie same time, hence this successional gathering will turn the crop to the highest practical account, and will keep tlie productive energies of the tree in a healthful and profitable condition. NEW NATIVE VARIETIES. I have before spoken of the production of new varieties of fruits adapted to our country. But as it is " line upon line, and precept upon precept," that makes a durable impression, let me remind you again that tlie future success and progress of American Pomology must rest mainly upon the introduc- tion of new kinds raised from seed upon our own soil. Let me, then, encourage you in this laudable enterprise. Is there any reason why we cannot produce Winter varie- ties of pears of the finest quality, as beautiful and smooth as the favorite Bartlett, or Louise Bonne de Jersey ? The Beurre Langelier, and Glout Morceau, in regard to beauty, are of this class. Why cannot we have, instead of the rough exterior of some of our late sorts, those of fair skins and rud- dy colors? And then in regard to flavor, wliy not be able to produce those of a rich character, like the Seckel, Belle Lucrative, and Passe Colmar? From the seed of the lattef many varieties were raised by the late Mons. Esperin, of Malines. Some of these are even superior in saccharine mat- ter and richness to the parent, but unfortunately not well adapted to our climate. Why should not our popular Bart- lett be the mother of a race equal in quality and hardier in character ? Of the seedlings raised in this vicinity, those on exhibition from Mr. Richardson, of Dorchester, Mass., are striking illustrations of the value of this variety as a parent from which to originate good native sorts. The experiment of the late Mr. Clapp of Dorchester, in the union of the Bartlett and the Flemish Beauty, as is believed, produced the Clapp's Favorite, a pear of equal size and beauty, entirely hardy, and pronounced by the best judges to be superior to the variety first named. The seedlings raised by Mr. Dana of Roxbury, Mass., are all good. Some of them are superior, and evince a constitution and vigor which adds much to the 438 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. value of their excellence. When we reflect upon the little effort which has been made to produce native varieties, it is wonderful wliat progress has been made. In the production of new sorts we should aim first, at a strong, hardy, robust, vigorous habit, and thus overcome a difficulty which now exists with many of the best fruits, namely, a weak, straggling growth. Others are constitution- ally wayward and unhappy in their growth, like Beurre Bosc, so as to render them scarcely obtainable from our nurseries. For instance, instead of trees with the feeble wood of the Winter Nelis, we could have tlie same fi-uit from a tree like the Doyenne Boussock, or Buffum, the former of which, in Europe, attains the height of fifty to sixty feet, and here both are scarcely less vigorous or hardy. This is only to be ob- tained by the choice of parent varieties to breed from, one of whicli, at least, possesses like vigorous habits. In regard to bearing properties, we should select those which come early into fruit, and set their fruit readily, and annually, like the Louise Bonne de Jersey and Yicar of Winkfield pears, and not like many kinds which flower free- ly, but do Jiot set their fruit until tlie trees have attained a great age. With the apple we should aim to produce varie- ties of the constitution and beauty of habit, as well as of fruit, like the Baldwin, King, and Gravenstein, and sliould avoid, if possible, those of an opposite character. It may be said, that many of our earliest fruits are necessarily of medium, or small size. This can be overcome. There is no general law which limits this feature. The improvement is all witliin tlie hand of man to mould tliem as lie will. The field of progress is endless, and it is our duty to occupy it. The same Divine Power tliat created the infinite species of plants and trees, also furnished them witli the ability not only to perpetuate themselves, but like the animal kingdom, under judicious treatment, to produce improved varieties. The success which has attended the application of jiulicious labor, leads to the conviction that great improvement is also to be made in our methods of cultivation. Compare, for in- stance, the magnificent specimens of some varieties now on ex- liibition with those of ten years ago. What has jiroduccd this OCTOBER. 439 great change ? Why, manifestly a better knowledge of their several characteristics, and of the best mode of cultivation. What has given the little Delaware grape a world-wide celebrity but proper cultivation ? What has rendered Hovey's Seedling strawberry so deservedly popular in the Boston market, but a knowledge of its characteristics and the right method of treatment ? In the former case at the lona Island, and in the latter, at Belmont, it would seem that perfection in culture had been attained. After the choice of officers, the active business of the meet- ing commenced. Various fruits were discussed, and when the authentic Report is published we shall, as heretofore, collate and present a summary of the whole proceedings. HALF HOURS WITH OLD AUTHORS. BY WILSON FLAGG. "THE RURAL SOCRATES." Some account of this work, though perhaps more appro- priate to an agricultural paper, than to the Magazine of Hor- ticulture, cannot fail to be interesting. The celebrated Arthur Young, having perused a work in the French language, en- titled " La Socrate Rustique,^^ and not having seen it in an English dress, determined on account of its great merits and undoubted utility, to procure a translation. He wished that the public might not be deprived of the loss of such an example as the subject of the work afforded. The work is peculiarly connected with the economical management of a farm ; it enlarges on some of them, and presents other ideas of indispensable use. The whole contains the real manage- ment of a Swiss farmer. It is the history of his practice, and displays an example not only of economy, industry, sobriety, and every domestic virtue, but also of the most efficient hus- bandry. It gives account of a poor peasant, coming to a small farm overwhelmed with mortgages, practising so ani- mated an agriculture, as not only to gain enough to discharge 440 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. his incumbrances, but to purchase more land, and to culti- vate the whole with unremitted diligence and neatness. This work was afterwards republished in Hallowell (District of Maine) in the year 1800, by Peter Edes. The work is entitled, in English, " The Rural Socrates ; or an Account of a celebrated Philosophical Farmer, lately living in Switzerland, and known by the name of Kligogy." The true name of this peasant was Jacob Gonyer. The book was first written in German by Dr. Hirzel, a physician of great eminence, and a statesman. " James Gonyer (says Dr. Hirzel) presented to my admiring eye, the most exalted faculties of the human mind, in a state of noble and interest- ing simplicity ; void of pretension and ostentation, and such in short as they come out of the hands of nature. The cir- cumstantial description which I have collected of his man- agement, comprises in my opinion, everything which, upon the plan of Socrates, is most important to be known for the improvement of husbandry. Happy shall I be, if my eiforts can excite a corresponding emulation among our farmers ! The just praise bestowed upon the man whom I have select- ed for a model, and the honors paid to his singular talents, may at least assure them, that, whenever they fulfil the duties of their station with intelligence and assiduity, like him they will obtain the blessings of Providence, with the universal approbation and esteem of mankind." The character of Kligogy is not that of a man corrupted or improved by frequent intercourse with the inhabitants of some neighboring city ; and who has been led to assume manners ill suited to the situation of a peasant ; much less is it that of one whom the society of men of letters, or a su- perficial knowledge of books has made a pretender to learn- ing. Kligogy was indebted to nature and his own habits of study and observation for all he possesses ; he owed nothing to artificial culture. Contented with his lot, he refused every office even in the village wiierc he resided. Kligogy and liis brother, at the commencement, occupied a farm together, he luiving six chihlren and his brother five. At the death of their father the family inheritance was divided among five sons. The eldest chose an estate for his share ; OCTOBER. 441 the two next preferred money ; and tlie two associates re- mained joint heirs to a tract of land of about ninety-four acres, wliich was thus divided: — Meadow ground, 15 acres ; arable, 45; pasture, 24; wood, 10 acres. The value of this farm might be ,£875 sterling. It had a mortgage upon it for half tlie amount at the time of their taking possession of it. Beside this it was charged with the payment of the younger brothers' fortunes. One of them died soon after and returned them a part, but by adding a payment to be made to the youngest son, the debt still amounted to £547. This was certainly a heavy incumbrance on so small an estate ; and the neighboring farmers judged witli great prob- ability, that the two brothers must soon sink under it. In- deed this must have seemed likely in their own view, burdened as they were with the management of a farm, whose produce must previously raise an annual rent charge for the payment of interest ; and the land so impoverished and neglected that it seemed impossible to bring it into con- dition, except at an immoderate expense. A family so sit- uated, where there were many to feed and few to work, must cause great consumption, and afford but little assistance in the cultivation of tlie farm. The necessity of hiring labor- ers also appeared indispensable, and the wages of such had been greatly advanced by manufactures. Such united obstacles produced on the mind of Kligogy their proper effect ; they animated him with resolution to redouble his zeal and application to surmount them. He was successful, and our prudent economist contrived without the aid of strangers or contracting fresh debts, considerably to augment his fortune. The system of husbandry thus suc- cessfully practised must certainly be valuable to the commu- nity ; and thougli it is not possible in this limited notice to give even a general account of it, I shall present the reader with such detached portions of his management as may be most interesting to the readers of these pages. Omitting Kligogy's practice in regard to the common oper- ations of agriculture, 1 will present the reader with his mode of cultivating and preserving forests. He left to nature the care of sowing pines and firs, not professing to have much ft 442 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. knowledge concerning the culture of trees. He bestowed a kind of culture on his woods, mainly for tlie purpose of in- creasing manure for his grounds. Hence he collected, witli great industry, small branches of pines and firs, with dead leaves and moss. It is with this view also that lie carefully rooted out all weeds, ventilated the young shoots, and stripped his trees from time to time of branches almost to the top ; a method which, in his opinion, contributed in no small de- gree to accelerate the growth of the trees and augment the beauty of their trunks. This mode of practice, I would re- mark, would hardly be considered rational at the present time. And indeed the neighboring farmers rejected his man- ner of treating trees, as extremely prejudicial ; but strange as it may seem, Kligogy's pines and firs were fully equal, and often superior in growth to those of his neiglibors'. Hfs experiments are certainly worthy of attention, as a matter of curiosity. Dr. Hirzel says, it must be allowed that, on the first view, his woods appear thinner, from the openings visible between the trunks where the branches are taken off. But he did not see a single young fir that was withered or decayed, though the branches of all were considerably lopped. Kligogy made experiments some years since how far he might carry such operations with safety. He reduced the branches of so many trees as tlie compass of a quarter of an acre afforded, leaving only three knots on any one ; the trunks were from six inches to a foot in circumference. He did not lose more than four trees ; the rest, to speak truly, were a longer time than usual in making their shoots, but they afterwards grew as vigorously as otlicrs. Kligogy observed that every year produced a new head to the fir tree, till it arrived at its perfection ; and he inferred that the lower circle might be taken off every year without injury to the tree ; and that if pruning had even been omitted several years together, the same number of circles might be taken off with confidence. Dr. Hirzel remarks, that this practice is contradictory to the generally established theory of the vegetation of trees ; and the ex[)in-imonts of tlie nu)st distingviished naturalists liave donionsli'.'tLcd that trees receive their principal nourish- OCTOBER. 443 moit from the action of the atmosphere and light upon their leaves and branches. Yet the success of Kligogy's experi- ments, he thinks, would seem to indicate that the resinous and aromatic trees which have spines instead of leaves, may not be so dependent for their increase, on tlie preservation of their lateral branches, and that they may be pruned with less hazard than other woods. He thinks, at any rate, tliat the experiments of so distinguished a practical cultivator as Kligogy, attended as they were with a certain kind of success, merit the attention of all philosophical observers. Mr. Arthur Young remarks, that he has heard of this method of pruning fir trees being attended with great suc- cess ; but he cannot believe in it. He says, according to this theory, " if you cut a man's arms off, you increase his height amazingly. In theory, and according to my observation, all this reasoning is false. How comes it that pollard trees (those whose heads are regularly cut off for fagots) do not near equal, even in girt, good timber trees ? Even tlie size they do attain is deformed and odious." On the other hand, we may quote a passage from the French Encyclopedic, article Arbre, in which this pruning process is advocated. " The culture of a tree, by pruning away part of its branches, contributes more than any other method of industry to their luxuriancy ; so that it may be truly said, the more limbs they retrench in vegetable life, to a certain point, the more they multiply. Those who have never seen a tree entirely stripped of its branches to the very root, will consider it in this mangled state, as incapable of recovery, and fit only to be hewn down. Yet if an oak, an elm, a poplar or any other tree, whose trunk rises in a per- pendicular direction, is stripped of its branches from top to bottom, it will throw out from the lowest amputated parts to the top an infinite number of buds everywhere, which burst- ing into leaves round a trunk thirty or forty feet in height, form a clothing of thick branches that almost conceals the body of the tree. In the same manner a person who first beholds a tree that has lost its head by a hurricane or an axe, close to the neck of the branches, would naturally conclude for six months after, that it was a dead trunk, whose vegeta- 444 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. tion could never be renewed. But how great the surprise to behold a tree in these circumstances shooting forth below the wounded part a profusion of young branches that form another head ! This shows the almost inexhaustible resources of veg- etable nature. For it may be confidently asserted that from the extremity of the branches to the root of the tree, there is no perceptible space that does not enclose a portion of em- bryo life ready to appear, whenever the situation of the tree requires an extraordinory exertion of the secret springs of vegetation." It must be considered, however, that Kligogy adopted this sort of management of his firs, not so much to improve their growth, as to supply himself with material for compost to spread on his farm. If, therefore, he did not by this process injure the growth of his firs, if he still obtained as much tim- ber as he would have obtained by leaving them untouched, all the compost he made from the leaves and branches taken from them was so much clear gain. These facts are also remarkable, as a specimen of the husbandry of a poor farmer who had accomplished what was considered almost a miracle by his neighbors, and tliey show that extraordinary modes of practice, may sometimes be followed by extraordinary success. We see, as Dr. Hirzel remarks, in the instance before us, an estate where situation and appearance denoted ruin and decay, having few natural advantages, and being loaded with a heavy mortgage. Yet in a few years it was improved to a height almost incredil)le, yielding very nearly double the crops of hay and grain it formerly produced. Some of Kligogy's neighbors, who were far from being partial in liis favor, assured Dr. Ilirzcl, that wlien he first engaged in his undertaking, the lands which belonged to him were ranked among the worst ; but that now, in proportion to their extent, they always produced tlic finest crops in that division. They likewise regarded his enterprise as the most rash imprudoncc, wliich could not fail, in a very short time, to involve the two brothers in ruin ; and they were for a long time expecting their bankruptcy. And, indeed, wlio would not luivc pro- nounced the same sentence on the following question ? OCTOBER. 445 Whether a family, consisting of four parents and eleven small children, could be comfortably supplied with the necessaries of life from a wornout estate, scarcely valued at 14375, which must pay an annual interest for $2735 ? The event, however, answered the question in favor of the proprietors, and the success of their enterprise was due to the activity and enter- prise of this extraordinary man. It sliould be noticed that the surplus profits of the year were always employed by Kligogy in improvements, which he regarded as more advantageous than liquidating the mortgage upon his estate. He thouglit he made much more interest by employing a certain amount in agriculture, than the four per cent, he was paying ; he also considered the reciprocal convenience it is to a rich citizen to have his money on land- ed security. Notwithstanding the burden of these annual payments, Kligogy bought every year a large quantity of ma- nure from his neighbors, which he mixed with peat ashes, and exposed to heat and fermentation. But the necessity of economizing in these, as well as other expenses, led him to adopt several ingenious modes of enriching his land, one of which has already been discussed. Not being able to obtain marie in sufficient quantities, he discovered a method of im- proving his land by using a small gravel, which was probably a sort of half-crumbling feldspar. This was of a bluish hue, and bordering upon marie ; and the soil on which he spread it was a greasy reddish sand. Kligogy discovered veins of this gravel running along the sides of some barren unculti- vated hills, in the neighborliood, commonly on or very near the surface. In loading his carts, he throws aside the larger stones, strewing only the fine part on light lands. This was one of his occupations on winter days. By the assistance of this extraordinary fertilizer, Kligogy converted the worst land imaginable into excellent grain fields. The effects of this gravel led him to this general maxim — that every species of earth may be instrumental to the improvement of another of opposite qualities. The dis- covery, therefore, of a stratum of earth hitherto unknown to him, was as great an acquisition in his eyes, as a purse of gold in those of a miser. Kligogy never suffered a prejudice 446 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. of any kind to lead him to the rejection of new experiments. He thought, in general, as just stated, that all mixture of earths, where their nature is different, contributes to fertility ; nay, even where the distinction lies only in color. He had no doubt of improving a field, if at a moderate expense, he could contrive to carry fresh mould to it of a different quality. Thus a light soil is improved by a heavy one ; a sandy soil by a clayey one ; a blue clay by a red clay, and a red gravel by a blue gravel. It is in these different modes of procuring manure, and in constant industry in obtaining it, that ac- cording to Kligogy the fundamental basis of agriculture consists. The most interesting part of this book is that which treats of Kligogy's views of education, his moral views of society, and his system of domestic economy : but this must be omit- ted for want of space, and is not strictly appropriate to the columns of this Magazine. POMOLOGICAL GOSSIP. Crevelling Grape. — This grape, which l\as heretofore been well spoken of, but which has not attracted a great deal of attention, was exhibited at the late meeting of the Pomologi- cal Society in this city. The specimens were from Salem, and were quite ripe, showing that it is quite as early as the Concord, unless the location was highly favorable. Its quali- ty is excellent, better than the Isabella, and the bunch of fine size. According to the appearance of the grape it seems likely to become a popular early variety. Bartlett Strawberry. — According to the evidence of sev- eral cultivators, this new variety proves to be the Boston Pine. Some state that it is so much like it they can hardly distin- guish one from the otlicr. Not having cultivated it we can- not speak of our own experience in regard to this variety. Tlic Bostou Pine is so very distinct that a single inspection of the j)laiit would decide all doubts regarding it. OCTOBER. 447 Fine Pears at the Exhibition of the Massachusetts Hor- ticultural Society. — Ihe sliow of Iruit, particularly pears, at tliG Exhibition of tliis Society last month, was unusually fine, many of the specimens surpass^jig those of any previous year. The following are the kinds in some of the principal collections : — From Hovey & Co., Beurre d'Anjou, B. Hardy, B. Bosc, B. Superfin, Bartlett, Moore's, Sheldon, Swan's Orange, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Urbaniste, Doyenne Boussock, D. du Comice, Pratt, Duchesse, Belle Lucrative, Howell, Flemish Beauty, Kingsessing, Marie Louise, Merriam. From H. Davis, Beurre Diel, B. Easter, B. Bachelier, B. Langelier, B. d'Aiijou, Winter Nelis, Doyenne Boussock, Flemish Beauty, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Belle Lucrative, Swan's Orange, De Tongres, Duchesse, Urbaniste, Bartlett, Seckel, Andrews, Dix, Glout Morceau, Marie Louise. From J. Gordon, Bartlett, Urbaniste, Beurre d'Anjou, B. Bosc, B. Clairgeau, B. Diel, Dix, Bonne d'Ezee, Seckel, Merriam, Flemish Beauty, Winter Nelis, Andrews, Duchesse, Lawrence, Doyenne Boussock, Fulton, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Belle Lucrative, Stevens's Genesee. Bidwell's Seedling Grape. — At the Crystal Palace Horti- cultural Show, Sept. 1, the Report says: " Of Bidwell's Seed- ling, a grape something like Black Hamburgh, three bunches came from Mr. Hill, the united weight of which was 61 lbs.," showing it to be a large as well as a fine grape. Trebiana and other Grapes. — At the same show many fine specimens of grapes were exhibited ; 3 bunches of Black Hamburgh weighed 9 lbs. ; 3 bunches of Black Prince weighed 7j lbs. Tlie prize for the largest bunch was awarded to the Trebiana, the weight of which was 4 lbs. 7 oz. The Barba- rossa obtained the second prize, and the third was awarded to the Black Hamburgh, which weighed 4 lbs. 14 oz. Marchio- ness of Hastings was shown, but not quite ripe. The Adirondac Grape. — Specimens of this new grape, of which so much has been said, were exhibited before the Po- mological Convention last month. We did not have the opportunity to see the cluster, entire, but we tasted the berry, and, though not quite ripe, it appeared to be a superior grape. 448 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. almost entirely free of the foxy odor, with a thin skin, and a brisk fresli juice, approaching that of some of the more spirit- ed foreign grapes. We wish to see more of it, before ex- pressing a decisive opinion ; but it certainly has the appear- ance of being worthy of attention. Could such a grape be found in the out-of-the-way place that has been stated as its native locality ? To us it seems scarcely possible, and we think there must be some mistake in this respect. Golden Hamburgh Grape. — Some appear to entertain doubts as to the good qualities of this grape. Having fruited it this season, and succeeded far beyond my most sanguine expectations, I beg to record my experience. With us tlie size of berry was about the same as a full-grown Muscat ; not the Muscat we so often see, about the size of the old Sweetwaters, but large, and of a most beautiful amber color, slightly tinged at the stalk of the berry with faint pur- ple. Tiie flesh is firm, like that of the Black Hamburgh, but it has a sweeter and more delicious flavor. The stones sep- arate freely from the flesli, when taken into the mouth. It is a free bearer. As regards size, tlie bunches are between the Muscats and Hamburgh, and approach the latter in shape. The only bad quality it has, if such it may be considered, is, that it does not keep well, proving, therefore, to be a summer grape. It may, however, be well to state that our vines have had the same treatment as Muscats. It sets freely, but, judg- ing from my own specimens, I tliink it requires more heat than the Black Hamburgh to ripen it in perloction. The above we find in the Gardeners' Chronicle, and it is a merited tribute to a really superb and delicious grape, which must find a place in the very smallest collection. Well ripened its berries truly resemble " drops of gold." New Pears. — Quite a number of new pears are fruiting for the first time this year. Many of them are large and handsome, and, if their quality equals tlieir appearance, they will be decided acquisitions. We shall give a full account of all when ripe. OCTOBER. 449 THE ORG HARD- HOUSE. BY II. H. IIUNNEWELL, ESQ., WELLESLEY, NEAR BOSTON. Mr. Editor, — I have read with miicli interest the articles you have lately published, of the Rev. Mr. Br(3haut's, on the Cordon Training of Fruit Trees, as Adapted to the Orchard- House Culture ; and, although I fear his system is somewhat elaborate to be carried out fully in this country, except on a small scale, rather as a matter of curiosity and amusement, still, that they are full of instruction is very evident, and I notice, with pleasure, that you propose to republish them in a pamphlet form, accompanied by remarks of your own, for there can be no doubt we are much in want of more informa- tion and directions with special reference to our own climate, than we are as yet furnished with, either by Mr. Br^haut or Mr. Rivers. Thus far, I should judge, the success of those who have erected orchard-houses has been only partial, hardly realizing the enthusiastic expectations raised by the extreme- ly pleasant- and attractive manner in which the latter named gentleman first presented the subject, a few years since, to the public, by means of his little Treatise on Orchard-Houses. And I think we may be safe in stating that it will be generally found that we have more difficulties to contend with in this country than they appear to meet in England ; and further- more, that the expense is likewise much greater. It must be borne in mind, to begin with, by those who con- template erecting orchard-houses, that they must not only be of a more substantial and costly character than the " glass roof sheds," made of boards, with cracks for ventilation, spoken of by Mr. Rivers, but also that it is desirable they should be supplied with some mode of heating, to provide for our great changes of temperature in the spring, even where actual forcing is not proposed.* In my own case, I have ex- tended the hot-water pipes from a grapery into the orchard- house, the two being connected ; and, as they are not required in extreme winter weather, it meets the contingency, and answers the intended purpose perfectly well. VOL. XXVIII. — NO. X. 29 450 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. The constant attention and labor required during our ex- cessive hot weather, in watching and watering the pots two or three times a day, with double the quantity of water neces- sary in England, will be found quite an item, to say nothing of pumping, which few are so situated as to be able to dis- pense with. And, in this connection, it must not be forgotten that the trees, which from any cause may not be in fruit one year, demand the same care and attention, thus materially increasing the cost of the fruit raised on the others. The statement made by Mr. Rivers, that the finest flavored peaches can be grown and ripened in the house, as is well known, must be received with some qualification, and I think from my own experience the same may be said of Mr. Bre- haut's, that the only drawback to success arises from want of attention in " syringing, ventilation, and potting." Now I have certainly ripened under glass, what would be called fine peaches, but they are exceptions ; and it will be generally found, I think, when we offer such to our friends, that their beautiful appearance first excites great admiration, but, in tasting, a suggestive cliange in the countenance takes place, followed by an awkward pause, and a new subject of conver- sation. Very early in the season, it is true, it is something merely to see a handsome peach, but later, when other fruits become plentiful, more is expected, and we must calculate to remove our orchard-house trees into tlie open air, an advan- tage which the new mode certainly possesses over tlie old- fashioned peachery. In conclusion, as you have justly re- marked, it may be considered a settled point, that peaches can only bo ripened in-doors at the expense of flavor. The only explanation of Mr. Rivers's statement is, I suppose, though it is not a very comi)limentary one, that the standard of flavor is not so higli in England as here. The same re- mark applies, tliough perhaps not to quite the same extent, to apricots and plums, and still less to the nectarine, which suffers very little under glass, and the Stanwick I have found to 1)6 rather improved. The great drawback to success seems to be, judging from what has come under my observation, that we get no fruit from a consideraljle portion of our trees, a point on which OCTOBER. 451 very little is said by Mr. Rivers, and one which I imagine we may attribute mainly to the peculiarities of our climate. With trees that have been forced, and with the very early varieties, the blossom buds are inclined to swell in the autumn, if special care is not taken to keep the roots dry; but the greatest trouble is supposed to be occasioned by the great and sudden changes in the weather, early in the spring, when we have many days with the thermometer, in the house, under the effects of our bright sun, up to 80° and 90°, ex- citing the blossom buds, which thus become injured by subse- quent severe cold, and do not set their fruit. In England, with their dull, cloudy weather, they are not subjected to these changes, and hence probably the silence of Mr. Rivers. To guard against this liability, where parties do not wish to force at all, or commence so soon, recourse is had to shading the roof of the house, to laying the pots down on their sides, covering them with mats or straw, and likewise, to keep- ing them in a cellar, where they are protected from the sun and severe cold, and yet, with all these precautions, I have had no fruit from one-third of my trees; and I know of cases, with large collections, where, from one cause or another, little desirable fruit has been obtained the past two years. Whether this is the principal or only cause of failure, I leave others to decide. I trust, with your experience and observation, you will be able to offer us such light and sug- gestions as will not only encourage those of us who have houses, to persevere in our efforts, but will induce others to build, so that orchard-houses shall become, if not as numerous as on the other side of the water, at least sufficiently so, that we may not be obliged to rely entirely on our New Jersey friends for the unripe peaches they send us, or upon the generosity of the curculio for the occasional plum he is sometimes pleased to leave for us. We are glad to have the experience of one who has been as successful in orchard-house culture as Mr. Hunnewell. We quite agree with him as regards the difficulties to be expe- rienced in our climate, but hope we may be able to assist the cultivator in overcoming them. — Eo. 4:52 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. IN-DOOR GARDENIING. FROM THE GARDENEKS' CHRONICLE. In writing of window-gardening in the Gardeners^ Chronicle, I have always been hitherto rather afraid of referring too par- ticularly to the " in-door plant cases," because, thongh I am myself so fond of them, I thought that they were not at present sufficiently well known to be of at all general interest. So many inquiries are however addressed to me about them, that I hope some account of their management and arrange- ment may not be uninteresting. These cases are so arranged that a strong root heat can be maintained at one end of the case, while at the other there is none at all. The different temperature of the two ends keeps \ip a constant circulation of the air and effectually prevents the plants suffering by dampness or stagnation, except in cases of very gross neglect, or in instances where delicate leaves have been suffered to touch the glass and so to be injured by the condensation of vapor on it. Their great charm of course is the facility afforded by the plan for heat- uig, for bringing into flower and keeping in good health many tender stove-plants as well as delicate flowers, which would suffer from a dry atmosphere if kept on an open plant stand. My own pet case, I confess, enjoys immense advantages — most lovely plants being continually provided for it by the kindness of Mr. Veitch, who thus affords me the opportunity of trying the success in it of many of the most likely plants to thrive there. This advantage indeed should be by rights to others as helpful as to myself — in affording the knowledge ()f the [tlauts that have been actually tried and proved to answer well. 1 now propose then to describe exactly the contents at present of my gayest ])lant case — the plants composing tlie -a-oup being all well suited as to the color and habit, and nearly all being well proved to succeed in it, as I believe that all will. The variegated hydrangea, the orcliid, and the climbing fern, to be named hereafter, arc however, as will be seen, experiments. OCTOBER. 458 I will proceed, liowcvcr, to give a few practical hints and details as to the process of filling tlicse cases. And it may be well to begin by remarking that though, the first time of filling it, it is infinitely better to make the mossy surface the very last touch given, yet afterwards in altering the case it ought not ever to need to be disturbed, as even when the long tresses of moss seem to wander over adjacent flower- pots they may be raised, and returned again to their place upon the surface. In preparing the box itself for the plants' reception, there are two or three things worthy of remark. 1. One part being deeper than the other, there ought to be some charcoal provided in it, not only to enable the water to run down below the level of the roots of plants, but also in order to preserve that water pure, charcoal being "for this particularly valuable. The smaller the pieces of charcoal are, the easier it will be to move and rearrange the plants in their box. 2. When heat is required, there is nothing that I have ever tried to be compared to silver sand for keeping the plants in health and retaining warmth. Sawdust, moss, pure cocoa fibre, sphagnum, and many other things, have each proved inferior to sand for this use. A mixture of cocoanut refuse, however, with the sand makes a very excellent soil for mosses and ferns to root into. 3. If in any place a rather large-sized flower-pot has to rest directly on the surface of the hot water case, a piece of thick drugget or of felt does very well, used as a mat, to protect the roots from scorching. So much for the box filling. It is often useful to keep the places vacant for the larger pots by standing empty ones where they are to be — afterwards either sinking a pot in these if likely to be very often changed, or taking out the place-keeper and dropping the proper pot into the space it leaves. Dry sand should be poured in all round if the new pot is smaller than that withdrawn, as it is much better to allow no vacant spaces. I have come to the full conclusion, that in arranging such things it is best to aim at forming one simple connected group. As flowers are thus most often surrounded well by 454 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. leaves, I endeavor to have a regular frame of green at each end of the case, and a green moss carpet for the flowers to rest on. All the brightness then is collected into the single " bouquet" that forms just the centre, and if other flowers do stray beyond it, it is always evident that tliey are only strays. By this means one can fully enjoy the exquisite form and grace and color of the lovely green things which lightly line each end, or creep along the glass in a festooning wreath. To do this effectively, the brighter colors must be of a kind that match. A most popular centre is formed of the Dragcena terminalis, which answers in these cases the best of all plants I know — delighting in heat at its roots — and well repaying the trouble of occasional spongings of the foliage by the brilliant color which it then assumes. The only difficulty it presents is that of interfering a little in tint with very bright scarlet flowers ; it does therefore best amongst pink and crimson flowers more of its own nature. For this color-reason alone then is my Drsecena banished — a cerise azalea presents such attractions for a centre flower that it fairly possessed itself of that special place, and some beautiful spreading orchid leaves look very well indeed, sweeping out beyond. I am sorry to say indeed that in the matter of that orchid I underwent a failure. Killed with kindness was near being the verdict. For in the cold weather lately when I crept near to the fire I carried the orchid with me standing upon my work table, and no orchid in its senses will endure being fried. I have since been told that it would have borne cold far better, and truly the very texture of its marvellously lovely flowers ought to have warned mo not to dry it up. Tlic flowers then shrivelled, and were all cut off; only the leaves look as lovely as ever still, and in my plant ease I am trying hard to coax it into a fresli growth of flower buds, which with the Lycastc Skinncri is by no means unknown. The sides of my case, however, to return to it, have chiefly evergreens. They clothe the glass walls so well and make ^o good a background. A rhododendron and a myrtle have been there all the winter. At the other end a climbing Cissus, a Passiflora k(u-niosina ami the liygodiuni scandens — most exquisite of little graceful climbing ferns, with its trans- OCTOBER. 455 parent delicate fronds. These little creepers arc trained up sticks at present, but lines of black silk cord will be a better support when it comes to their wreathing along and around the top. A covering of Brazilian moss is preparing to over- run the whole of the warmer end, with little sprays of the pretty Caesium here and there asserting itself by its metallic lustre. At the other (cooler) end the Lyccpodium dentic- ulatum always grows most luxuriantly Avhen it is allowed to be long enough undisturbed. Pteris tricolor, P. argyrasa, P. cretica albo lineata, grow at the warmer side close to the glass in front, as they all like light and warmth. Adiantum cuneatum thrives delightfully always on the shadier side, and in the cooler part Pteris tremula, P. serrulata, and Davallia dissecta spread their green fronds about. A beautifully variegated Hydrangea japonica is at the warmer end, and there still are a few tulips, and one or two pink hyacinths, as well as a Gardenia, which is growing nice- ly near to a red begonia, but the color of the group is cer- tainly all gathered to tlie centre, where three azaleas entirely seem to furnish it. One (A. Reddingi) is a brilliant, thick petalled, rosy sort of cerise, shading into crimson, or redden- ing again into a brigliter and darker scarlet, while its grace- ful, half-open buds and its waving branches fill up the place delightfully — one, (Azalea magnifica,) with great white, rose-streaked flowers, — and one on the other side (A. mag- nifica flore plena) with perfectly white blossoms, exquisitely double, and looking like some most transparent lily. Azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias are, in fact, of all plants, most perfect for these cases. They always look so utterly fresh and dewy, and so unspotted — when they fade, they fall ; and thus we have not the drawback of seeing a flower withering. And indeed they are so lovely ! The Princess Alice rhododendron, for example, with the most delightful tinge of rose color, has a delicious scent, and such perfect shape and foliage as to be from year's end to year's end delightful to grow on. This plant, however, like all other evergreens of the kind, should always be turned out for awhile while hardening its wood, and making its next year's buds. "With camellias, also, this is essential ; at least 456 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. I have never tried to make any grow entirely in the cases, thinking it wonld be useless. "When the growth is made, the hottest and sunniest window sill is a great deal more suitable to make the wood hard and barky. There ought to be no difficulty in keeping np good heat. When it is not done there are two questions to be asked of the water-tank filler : — Did the water poured into the tank quite boil? (I have known it used milk-warm.) Was the tank previously emptied ? (Sometimes it is left half full.) Easy as they are to think of, a new servant for instance doing it is perfectly unaware of these points being important. Done properly, however, at 8 or 9 in the morning, and at 4 or 5 in the afternoon, it all goes on like clock-work, and should one filling be missed even, the heat is fairly retained for quite 24 hours. I will now go on to say a few words on the management of the plants in the in-door plant cases — of course referring solely to the patent heated ones. There are four things particularly that I find it necessary to avoid. 1. Closeness. 2. Wetness. 3. Faded flowers or fallen leaves. 4. Flowers and delicate foliage being too near the glass. For the first, I find, judging by many carefully tried exper- iments, that it is much better to sacrifice a little of the heat for the sake of a better ventilation, and at the same time, the warmth at the roots of the more tender plants enables them to bear the lowered temperature witliout the slightest check. The glass sides on their part prevent any drying current, and keep in a great measure the warm and moist air confined. In very cold weather of course it would be extremely dan- gerous to expose the plants often to a total change of air. At such times then I only raise the upper glass an inch or two. At tlie present time my plants do extremely well witli tlie case quite closed at night, and taken oIT altogether at about 10 o'clock each morning, when the perfume of the flowers comes out into the room. OCTOBER. 457 For wetness, I find that water is much more easily added tlian dried up, and a thick heavy steam is extremely different from a soft dewy vapor, and not half so desirable. My own plants certainly are never really dry, at least never when I can see to them ; but at the same time tiiey are seldom made very wet, as keeping the sand just moist appears to me to be all tliat they require. In watering the case it must be remembered that naturally the sand on the heated side dries first, and I have sometimes been troubled by the surface seeming to be duly moistened, while underneath, just where dampness is most wanted, the sand is found to be all quite dry and powdery. I have often in such cases taken out a pot from the heated end and poured water slowly into the hole thus made, so as to fill it up somewhere about two inches ; sometimes very rapidly, sometimes more slowly, the water is soaked up, and repeat- ing this a few times the whole of the lower surface is mois^teiied without drenching that at the top, which might cause too much steam. I never water the larger plants over the leaves, and, though I know that this is contrary to all rule, I prefer also avoiding to water over even my ferns and mosses. It seems to me that the dewy vapor with which the case becomes naturally filled at night is amply sufficient, and remembering how in South America, for example, days and weeks may pass with- out a drop of rain, but with regular soaking night dews, I cannot but think that the nature of many of our tender plants is such as to accommodate itself best to such a treatment, and the flowers certainly, which revel in the dew, would be spoiled and stained by a drop of water. Of course care must be taken to prevent too great conden- sation of tlie dew on the upper glass. If water does by chance collect there at any time too abundantly, the glass should be taken off and dried. But for preventive measures, a woollen cover, such as a thick piece of green baize laid upon the top at night, gives little trouble and saves all risk of dropping. As to the unhealthy effect and the great unsightliness of decaying leaves and flowers, they are so apparent that it can 458 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. be only necessary to hint at the caution wherewith they ought to be removed, so as to prevent all danger of fine dust-like particles conveying seeds of mould to other plants standing- near. It is curious, too, that while healtliy plants may seem quite uninjured by such attacks, if one cutting or seedling of a rather yellojv and unhealthy pot full begins at all to suifer, the chances are that the others will be hurl also. Dusting with sulpliur, I may mention by the way, is a good remedy to be tried in such cases. This may be dusted on sometimes very easily with a dry paint-brush. When air however is given, when there is not too much moisture, and when the flowers and leaves are prevented (ex- cept thick leaves of evergreens) from touching the glass sides, very little " damping" is likely to take place, supposing heat to be given, at least now and then. OUR HARDY HERBACEOUS PLANTS. BT THE EDITOR. Among the brightest blue flowers, which always attract the attention of eveiy lover of plants, are the Gentians, some of which are natives of our own meadows and fields, and form conspicuous ornaments wherever they are successfully culti- vated in our gardens. Among the latter the Gentiana crinita is one of the loveliest of the tribe, — so exquisite in its form and coloring as to have had its merits sang by the poet, an eminence wliich few of our native plants have attained. The foreign species are also exceedingly beautiful, with the deepest azure blue flowei's ; some of them, tlic early harbin- gers of spring, displaying tljcir blossoms abundantly, and for a long time. Of these the G. acaulis, which is the especial ol)Ject of our notice, is the most prominent, and deserves to be universally introduced and cultivated. ci:ntiana acaulis. Tiiis Ijcautiful i)I;int (riG. 17) is so common in CJreat Britain that it is used to considerable extent ior ed<>:inj!:s to OCTOBER. 459 flower borders. Mrs. Loudon speaks of it justly, wlicn she says, " it is so conspicuous from the beauty of its flowci'S, that few persons can pass it unnoticed." It is a native of the Alps, of Middle Europe, and as far north as Siberia. It is of very dwarf habit, the leaves lying almost flat upon the ground, and its flower stems are only a few inches high, terminated with a single flower, which is large and bell-shaped, and of the most intense blue, with a yellowish throat. It blossoms in April. It is of simple culture ; being an Alpine plant, it needs protection during our severe winters, and the plants should GKNTIANA ACAULIS. always have a light covering of leaves, or strawy material, through which the wet can readily drain ofi", and prevent the rotting of the crowns. It likes a peaty soil, but will thrive in light sandy garden earth. It is propagated by dividing the roots, in spring or autumn. It may also be grown in pots, where it thrives well, giving the plants the protection of a cold frame in winter. In this way we have had small plants in a four-inch pot, covered with blossoms. Other species that we have cultivated are the following : — 460 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE, G, FiMBRiATA. — A native of tlie Caucasus, A pretty spe- cies, growing about a foot high, witli blue flowers, wliich are fringed on the margin. It blooms during July and August, and is a very fine plant. G. SAPONARIA. — This is our most common native species, distinguished by its large very dark blue flowers, clustered at the top of the stem, wliich never expand, but remain closed, resembling buds. The plant grows erect, about two feet high. It was formerly abundant around Boston, but is now only found in localities more remote from the city. It is a conspicuous and beautiful plant. G. CRiNiTA is one of the finest of all the species, but it is only biennial, and rather difficult of cultivation. SUBURBAN VISITS Residence of Capt. W. H. Austin, Dorchester. — It is a real pleasure to look through a plantation of beautiful fruit trees, of whatever kind, but more especially so, through one of pear trees, systematically trained and managed. Of the thousands of trees, whether dwarf or standard, pyramidal or round-headed, which have been planted, proljably few, if ajiy, are pruned on a complete system. Many have not the skill to manage them; others have no leisure; a third thinks it " will not pay ;" and otlicrs have no eye for the beautiful in a tree, beyond the dollars and cents that can be realized for the fruit. It is rare, therefore, to see a dozen perfectly trained and uniform pear trees in any garden ; and we venture to say, almost impossible, to find two or three hun- dred trees, throughout the entire country, so systematically treated as Caj)t. Austin's. We have, in ])revious volumes, givoi an account of our visit to liis garden, and have i'ully described his mode of pruning, (Vol. XXV.) ; but as we always derive so nuich gratification from our visit to his grounds, we tliink our read- ers may like to share with us the gratification, as we are sure OCTOBER. • 461 tlicy would could we adequately portray the beauty, symme- try, aud parfectiou of his trees. Capt. Austin's pear trees liave been planted at various times since 1845, but are mostly from fifteen to eighteen years old. They are, with few exceptions, if not every one, upon the quince stock; such as do not succeed upon the quince being double worked. In this way he has many of the choice pears in bearing, not excepting the Dix. The trees stand, generally, in squares, and are planted in rows, eight or ten feet apart, and the trees six feet from each other in the row. The trees are all trained, on what Capt. Austin calls the wine-glass pattern, or what is, in reality, a pyramid reversed, the limbs branching out from one point, to a uniform flat top, about seven or nine in number, at a maximum height, say of ten feet. The branches are stopped, each branch forming a sort of cordon, and nothing but short spurs are allowed to grow, every lateral being pinched off at the second or third bud. The trees are tlierefore equally balanced, and notwith- standing they are loaded with fruit, each branch has become so stout, from the continued stopping of the laterals, that it sustains the weight without the least danger of bending ; and every tree has just the same erect and symmetrical appear- ance as if it bore no fruit. None but a thorough lover of a beautiful garden, a zealous cultivator, and a systematic man, can have such trees. They are not obtained without constant attention and labor. Every side shoot is detected immediately, and shortened. The cor- dons, or branches, are continued to the desired height, when they are allowed to go no farther. Nearly the entire pruning is done by pinching off the young shoots, unless so hardened as occasionally to use the knife. The pears Capt. Austin principally grows are the Duchess and Louise Bonne de Jersey, these being especially adapted to his style of pruning, making stout wood, and few side branches, requiring less time than other sorts ; besides, they are fine fruits, and command a good price. The Beurr^ d'Anjou, Bartlett, Easter Beurre, and a few others, are grown in smaller numbers. Such pears as the Urbaniste and Winter 462 . THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Nelis do not succeed so well on this plan ; they make too many shoots, and are impatient of the constant pinching. Beurre Hardy will undoubtedly succeed admirably, and also Doyen- ne du Cornice, which Capt. Austin is now trying. With him every kind is forced into his system, but the labor is too great with such as we liave noted. The fruit crop never looked so well. The trees were load- ed with magnificent specimens, hanging as evenly as if tied on by rule. The trees were in the highest vigor and liealth, and the opponents of Dwarf pear culture should examine these results of eigliteen or twenty years' experience, to com- pletely upset all their theories regarding the quince stock, and its value. All who have any doubts upon this point should inspect Capt. Austin's trees ; they cannot fail to be impressed with the conviction, that, in a skilful cultivator's hands, dwarf trees are not only very ornamental, but exceed- ingly profitable objects. Snrtral |lotitts. Young Grape Vines, and their Treatment. — Speakinj^ of young vines, and their treatment, Mr. Thomson gives very useful advice : — " The size of pot they should be shifted into depends on what they are intended for. If for planting out, an 8-inch pot is sufficient; if for fruiting in pot's the following season, the size should not be less than 8 inches, or more than 11 inches. I have seen at Floors Castle 14 bunches, averaging half a pound each, on a one-year old vine, in an 8-inch pot. Mr. Rose, however, lold me that he kept the pot st;inding in a saucer, into which he poured guano-water, occasionally, till tlio grapes began to color. I have tonnd a compost, the same as tliat recommended for the borders, answer admirably for vines in pots. When potted, they should, for a few days, be shaded, as the roots must suffer more or less in the process, and are not prepared to supply the foliage with the needful sap to resist the demands made upon it by a powerful sun. In March, or April, the temperature and general treat- ment, as to airing, should be the same as what will be reconnnendod for the first year they are planted out in tjie border. Whether vines are in- tended for fruituig in pots or planting out, I consider that they should be stopped wiien, including their pot, they are six feet high ; the laterals, as they appear, hIiouM be stopped at one joint. These laterals will break again, and siiould bo pinched, so as to leave another joint. The best posi- tion for such vinea to grow is in the full blaze of the sun. I have grown OCTOBER. 463 them trained up under the rafters of a pine pit, nnd found thenn prove very fruitful, and also awainst the back wall of a pine stove ; but they will do well in any situation where they can have vinery or pine-stove heat, be regularly watered, have the full influence of the sun, and be kept free from red spider. When the canes become brown, and all the syrtiptoins of ripen- ing show themselves, the whole of the lateral branches may be cut off, care being taken not to injure the leaves that spring from the main stem, as their office is to fill out the buds that are to show the young bunches of fruit next season. When fairly ripened, say in September, and the leaves are getting an autumn tint, they may be removed and nailed up against a wall, provision being made th:it they do not suffer for want of water. From this position they should, on the approach of frost, be removed to an airy shed, peach house at rest, or some other shelter, where they can be kept cool, and at the same time protected from severe frost. Thus prepared, they are fit either for fruiting in the pots they are in, or for planting out in a border. If wanted for the former purpose, they may be cut back to five feet, including pot. Their roots should never be allowed to get dry during their season of rest, as is someumes the case, nor should they have much water." The author is not, however, an advocate of growing vines in pots, except for special purposes, although he has himself grown 200 bunches of grapes in a house th:rty feet long and thirteen feet wide. — [Card. Chron.) IiNARCHiNG Grape Vines. — Perhaps there is nothing that more perplexes amateurs and inexperienced gardeners than working one kind of vine upon another. They will find their difficulty removed by attention to Mr. Thomson's simple directions : — " When it is considered desirable to in- crease the varieties of vines in a house, the simplest way of doing so is either to graft or inarch them. For my own part I prefer the latter method ; and by putting young wood to young wood, all that is necessary is to bring the vines to be united into a convenient position to each other, and to take a slice with a sharp knife off each, nearly half through their diameter, the wounds to be the same length; then bring their wounds together, so that at least two of their sides or lips are in close contact ; then put a distinct tie above the wounds, and one below them, to enable you to undo the tie that is to hold the wounds together betwixt these two at any time, with- out the risk of destroying the embryo union that m ly be taking place; then with soft matting, thoroughly, and rather firmly, baudnge the whole length of the wounds. The vines will swell as they grow, and this bandage will have to be slackened occasionally, when the importance of the two ties referred to will appear. The growth of the stock on which the new vine is inarched may be stopped at three joints past its point of junction with the new one. In nine cases out of ten the union should be complete in a month, when the bandage may be taken ofT, but the ties above and below retained for some time afterwards. When the young vine shows by its vigorous growth that it is deriving supplies of sap from its new p.irent, its connection with its ovvn roots may be half severed, and by the end of the season cut off entirely. I have inarched young wood on to old, but da not 464 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. recommend it where young- can be had conveniently. I do not consider grafting so certain a plan as inarching in the manner I have described ; and, besides, it leads to a good deal of bleeding when the graft is put on just as the old parent vine is started irito growth. I have raised seedling vines from seed, inarched them on old establit-hed vines the same season, and fruited them the next ; when inarched, their stems were no thicker than stocking- wires. — [Gard. Chron.) Grapes, as they are to be seen at the Royal Horticultural Gardens at Chiswick. — There are men who are more competent than I am to express the pleasure they feel upon receiving a really valuable lesson in grape growing, but there are none more anxious or willing than I am to benefit by such lessons. Facts tell their own tales very plainly, and to some of us they are, at times annoying and unpalatable. It is not my intention to speak of all the varieties of grapes grown in that marvellous house at Chiswick, but to make a few observations upon sucli varieties as may be of interest to the general cultivator. Entering the house by the door which is approached from the walk intersecting the end of the ribbon border, I was for a minute perfectly paralyzed by the lofty magnificence and uniqueness of the scene before me — grapes, both black and white, clustering in such quantity, and of such quality, that I was almost inclined to doubt the declaration of Solomon, when he says that " there is nothing new under the sun." After gazing for a few minutes at the vines and crop of fruit, as a whole, I began to examine them individually, and exactly over the door by which I entered are some magnificent bunches of the Barba- rossa, with berries large and black, though the bunches still rttain a i'evr healthy green berries, — a sure indication of good coloring. This vine, be it observed, is grafted upon a Hamburgh stock. To the left of this vine is another Barbarossa, upon its own roots, ard carrying an admirable crop. The difference, however, in the appearance of the fruit under the different circumstances is very striking; that of the vine upon its own roots being altogether of a grizzly or brick-red color, indicating that, however satisfac- torily they may color, they will not finish so well, or so soon, as those upon the Black Hamburgh stock. A few yards further down the house, and upon the same side, is a fine rod of that very excellent vine, the Trenthain Black. This vine carries IG beautiful bunches, black and bloomed like an autumn sloe, a fact which ought to be enough to annihilate the couimon idea that this is a difficult grape to manage — even if there were not the ' Trent- ham Black' house at Trentham, wiiich bears yearly testimony of its great productiveness and superior flavor. Further down tha house still, and upon the same side, we come to a vine that has been, and still is, the ob- ject of much praise and much calumny, the Golden Hamburgh. That this vino should be grafted upon a Black Hamburgh stock I am quite convinced, but here it is upon its own roots, and carrying such a crop, that for quan- tity and quality is enough to make its hardest cheeked defumer blush, and hide his face under a consciousnces of his own incapacity. The vine in question carries eighteen or nineteen fine bunches of fruit, wiiicli for color OCTOBER. 465 and size of berry are unapproacliod by any wliite grape in the whole house. All who do not succeed to their satisfaction with this grape should see this vine, and learn the lesson (however humiliating it may be) that not the vine but practice is at fault. Those who are fortunate enough to be able to see this most wonderful house of grapes, will not fail to notice the great superiority of the Frankenthal over all other Black Hamburghs culti- vated within it. A new early white grape was pointed out as the White Frankenthal, which Mr. Banon believes will surpass all other early white grapes yet known ; but of course time alone can determine this matter. — ( Gard. Chron.) As corroborative of the above excellent management, we add the follow- ing account of the exhibition of these grapes, at the Society's Autumn Show, September 10: — Of fruit, an extremely interesting collection of grapes was shown from the Society's conservatory at Chiswick, of which some account was given the other day. Among black sorts were Burchardt's Prince, Trentham Black, Morocco Prince, Esperione, Muscat Noir de Jura, Black Frontignan, Late Black (Armagh), Black Prince, Barbarossa, Black Monukka, a very large bunch; the little Currant grape of the shops; Frankenthal, a fine bunch ; Black Hamburgh, Strawberry grape, a small variety ; Ladv Downe's Seedling, Oldaker's West's St. Peter, Blussard Noir, Rouge de Provence, Prune de I'Herault, Black Morocco, Mill Hill Hamburgh, and Dutch Ham- burgh. Of white varieties, the collection contained Royal Muscadine, Muscat of Alexandria, Cabral, Reeve's Muscadine, Cabul, Raisin de Calabre, Ahbee, Golden Hamburgh, a very fine bunch ; White Fron- tignan ; White Nice, Foster's Seedling, and Blussard Blanc. Of grizzly colored varieties, there were Tokay des Jardins, De Candolle, Grizzlv Frontignan, Chasselas Rose de Falloux, Violet Chasselas, and Gros Gro- mier du Cantal. In reference to these grapes we may mention that the bunch of Black Monukka, which weighed 4 lbs., was the admiration of everybody. It is an [ndian grape, said to be excellent in flavor, and its berries, which are oval, are invariably stoneless. The Frankenthal was also in all respects a beau- tiful bunch, as was also that of the Black Hamburgh. The former weighed 3i lbs. and the latter 21 lbs. Barbarossa and Black Prince weighed re- ' spectively 2 lbs. 7 oz. and I lb. 15 oz , and the Morocco Prince 1 lb. 13 oz. Among white varieties the Golden Hamburgh stood conspicuous ; its dis- tinguishing points were fine form, both of bunch and berry, and its color equalled that of a well ripened Muscat of Alexandria. It weighed 2 lbs. In short a finer or more instructive collection of grapes than that under notice has never before that we can remember been submitted to public inspection. — (Gard. Chron.) CoLTiVATioN OF THE Tree Tomato. — M. Bone Fox grape ; the vine is porfectly hardy ; the fruit is of a dark color, nearly black, witli very little l)ulj) ; not foxy at all, but of a peculiar agree- able flavor, very mueli admired by mo^L i)orsoiis. It rij)ens with the Catawlia, and was raised Irom the seed of that variely. Michigan. — The Michigan is a very superior native grape, NOVEMBER. 507 wliich is supposed to have onginatcd from seed in tlic garden of tlie late Rev. Mr. Haltstadt, a Lutheran clergynian of ]Mon- roe, in North Michigan, where it first became known in 1852. The growth of the vine resembles that of the Catawba, but is more vigorous ; the leaf is lilvo the Catawba, but rather larger, and the vine is more liardy ; the bunches are of good size, with usually two shoulders or branches, and always vt^ith one, each of which is as large as that of tlie Catawba, as grown at Cincinnati, the bunch being altogether about twice or thrice as large as those of the Catawba ; the berries being a shade redder than the Catawba, and have a much finer bloom. The perfume of the grape is delicious ; tlie pulp melting, very juicy, sweet and rich ; the juice has been compared to that of wine ; the skin has no disagreeable flavor. It ripens at Mon- roe two weeks earlier than Catawba, and seldom or never fails, and ripens equally, while the Catawba seldom ripens there at all, and never equally. It keeps better than any other grape which is there known, and is more sugary in Jan- uary than in September. It has good crops without protec- tion, wlien the Catawba is fruitless from severe winters. It ripens usually from the 15th to tlie 20th of September. [MS. letter of Mrs. E. F. Haskell of Monroe, Mich.] Dr. Kirtland describes the Micliigan grape as superior in flavor and delicacy to the Diana, from specimens sent him by Mrs. Haskell in 186J. PEAR TREES ON THE "WINE GLASS" PATTERN. BY CAPT. W. R. AUSTIN DORCHESTER, MASS. Mr. Editor: — When I invited you, with other of our hor- ticultural friends, to look at my trees, play a game of ninepins and take a social cup of tea, I certainly did not expect to see soon after in your Magazine, such a complimentary and ex- tended notice of my trees, especially as you had oh a former occasion referred to my method of pruning. While I am gratifieql and pleased with your approval of my system and zeal as a cultivator, you will allow me to correct 508 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. one or two statements, and at the same time explain Avhat I conceive to be the merits or advantages of mj system, which you say '■'•Ihaue proved by eig-hteen or twenty years'' expe- rience.''^ You state " the trees are all trained on what Capt. Austin calls tlie wine glass pattern, or ivhat is in reality a pyramid reversed.'" I cannot see the similitude, neither do they, as you state, have a uniform "flat top ;" with these exceptions, your description ajid remarks are sustained by the facts and convey correct impressions to your readers. Having made tiiis, perhaps unimportant correction, let me now say that the outline or form I design to give is that of a wine glass or goblet, ronnded up in the middle ; near walks or fences where there is not space for a round form, they may be flattened at the sides, but always a little highest in the mid- dle ; never " flat on top ;" you will perceive that as the arms or leaders which form tlie head of tlie tree cannot all start from the "same point" on the stem, (being from eight to twelve in number) the upper ones, or those which diverge and branch highest from the stem, are to form the highest part of the tree, observing that the centre leader (which inclines to run up) is always cut out at the start, thus forcing the sap into tlie other leaders or brandies, giving strength to the low- er limbs and laying the foundation of a low stocky, open tree. Having given to the tree this form at tlie outset, the young laterals, spray, or side shoots, are all to be kept pinched or clipped with scissors or light pruning shears (not a knife) to say three eyes, all during the growing season, and especially from about the middle of May to the 20th of June, when the growth is most profuse in spray, and requires tbe utmost vig- ilance ; about the 1st to the lOtli of July the leaders must also be topped, that is, cut ofT, say one half, more or Jess, ac- cording to size ; if cut earlier than tbis, while in rampant growth, an eye would immediately break just below where cut off and the leaders start again a't once, and in any event (if the tree is vigorous) will start again during the season, or at tbe second growth, and are to be checked or cutolTas often as required ; it is Wns frequent slopping: of the leaders which gives size and strength to the braiichos to support the weight NOVEMBER. 509 of fruit, more than tlie ^'■constant stopping of the laterals f^ but both must be done to attain the bchft i-esults, and unless there is felt a full conviction of the benefit, or a natural love for the art, or both together, (as in my case) it will rarely be "done, as it involves more labor and system than is convenient with most to bestow. Being the originator of this mode of training or pruning, and having practised it twelve or fifteen years on the dwarf, let me state what in my judgement are the advantages of this form of tree over the pyramid : 1st, its low, stocky, open habit, lej ased by graftiiiK; grown i;i heath soil. Bot. Ma-; , ISGi, pi. 5317. " Of all the magnificent series of rhododendrons which have readied us from'India, none can vie in color with this, whicli, from the gorgeous hue of its blossoms received the name of fulgens from its discoverer. Dr. Hooker, who says of it, ' This, the richest ornament of tlie Alpine regions, in the month of June, forms a very jirominent show on mountain slopes and spires, at an elevation of 12,000 to 14,000 feet, flowering in June, and fruiting in November and December. The foliage is perennial, of a bright green hue, and gives a singular hue to the bleak snowy mountain faces, immediately overhung by the perpetual snow, contrasting in August with the bright scarlet of the barberry, the golden yellow of tlic fading beech and mountain ash, the lurid green of the . NOVEMBER. 523 juniper, and the brown of the withered grass. Whether, then, for the glorious effulgence of its blossoms, which appear to glow like fire in the few sunny hours of the regions it in- habits, or in the singular tint its foliage assumes at other sea- sons, it is one of the most striking plants of the inhospitable regions it inhabits." The leaves are deep green, ferruginous beneath, and the heads of flowers are very dense. It is prob- ably very nearly hardy, and would be a valuable kind to fertilize our catawbiense in order to secure dark colored varieties. (^Bot. Mag., June.) 650. Palisota Barte^ri, Hook. Mr. Barter's Palisota. (Commelinese.) Africa. A. areenlionse plant; srovving two feet high; with pink flowers; appearing in summer; increased by division ol the roots; ijruwn in li^hl rich soil. Bot. iMaif., I8ti2, pi. o3i8. An almost stemless herbaceous plant, with large leaves, springing from the root, one to two feet long, attenuated at the apex, resembling most some of the cannas. The pedun- cle is short and terminal, erect, bearing a dense raceme of pale purplish flowers. It was one of the discoveries of the Niger expedition, and plants have flowered at Kew. (^Bot. Mag-., June.) 651. Anthurum ScHERZERiANUM >Sc/io/^. (Orontiaccse.) Gua- temala. A h'thoiise plant; growins; six inches hijh; with scarlet flowers; appearing in April; increased by division ol the roots; grown in light rich soil. Bot. Mag., i8.i2, pi. 5319. A very singular little plant, remarkable among its conge- ners for its small size and the brilliant color of the spadix and spathe, the leaves long, narrow, deep green, and coriaceous. The flower stems are scarlet, as are also the spatlie and flow- ers. It grows only six or eight inches high. (^Bot. Mag., June.) 652. Oreodaphne Californica Hook 8f Am. (Laurinea.) California. A half hardy tree; growing 30 feet hi?h; with greenish flowers; appearing in spring; increased by layers; grown in rich soil. Bot. Mag., 1862, pi. 532U. In Great Britain this is a fine evergreen and hardy tree. It was first described by Douglas, who met with it in quanti- ties in California, where it marks the transition from the 524 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. gloomy pine forests of the Northwest, and the tropical verdure of California. The whole plant is so strongly aro- matic, that even during hurricanes, Mr. Douglas was obliged to remove from under its shade. The odor is camphor-like, and so pungent as to produce violent sneezing. As a hardy tree it is a handsome and valuable acquisition, but it is doubtful if it will prove hardy in our climate. {Bot. Mag-., June.) 653. EcHiNOSTACHYS PiNELiANA Brougn. (Bromeliacese.) Rio Janeiro. A hothouse plant; Erowing two feet liish; with yellowish flowers; appearing in spring; in- creased by division of the root; arowii in li^ht rich soil. But. Ma?., 1^62, pi. 5321. One of the Bromeliaceous plants, showy from its vivid scarlet stem and bracts, and handsome pine apple like foliage. It requires the heat of the stove. (^Bot. Mag., June.) Gossip of tjje Pont^. The Annual Meeting of the Massachusetts Horticultural So- ciETT, for the election of officers, was held on Saturday at their Library Room, corner of Washington and West Streets. The attendance was large, and the contest was an animated one, chiefly, however, with regard to the Presidency. There were tliree tickets printed, one of which was nominated by a committee appointed by President Breck, called the Report of the Nominating Committee, headed by Edward S. Rand, of Boston, for President, with C. M. Ilovey, of Cambridge, for Vice-President; a second was headed by Mr. Rand, with another name substituted for that of Mr. Hovey for Vice-President, and wherever else his name occurred on com- mittees it was dropped for other names ; and the tliird ticket, called the members' nomination, was headed by diaries M. Hovey, of Cambridge, for President. The whole number of votes cast was 183; necessary to a choice, U2; Charles M. Hovey received 112 votes, and was declared elect- ed, with all the other gentlemen named on the members' ticket. Tlie Nom- inating Committee's Report, or what was called tlie Regular Nomination, received, it was said, less than a score of votes, while tlie irregular ticket, with Mr. Rnrid's name at the head, carried his vote up to 71. C. M. Hovey, the new President, is a gentleman of rare attainments, of large and ripe experience, and of great practical skill in the arts of horti- culture and landscape gardening, and his election is creditable to those who supported the members' ticket, and the ofllcc conferred upon him is the re- NOVEMBER. . 525 ward of true merit. He is both favorably and well known to the horti- culturists of America and of Europe, as the Editor of Hovey's Magazine of Horticulture ; and, in addition to this, he is known as one of the largest and most successful fruit and floral culturists in New England, and besides has immortalized his name in strawberry culture, in the propagation of a new seedling, called " Hovey's Seedling," than which, as conceded by many fruit growers, there is no better variety of this choice and most de- licious fruit in cultivation. Under such auspicious circumstances, this old- est and richest horticultural society in America cannot but be prosperous and etficient — as it is ought to be — beyond that of any former period of its mission of usefulness and great success. It is hoped that all the members will cheerfully and earnestly cooperate with the President and those in office under him in the noble work of diffusing useful knowledge among the people, and thus hasten on the day when every man owning land in New England shall be able to sit under his own vine and pear tree, and to partake with his family and friends of the luscious fruits and wines there- of.— [Boston Courier.) Amkrican Pomological Society. — Correction. In our last number we alluded to the reports of the discussion, as published in the Country Gentleman. We thought them very incorrect, and embraced the early opportunity to correct them, so far as our own remarks were concerned. We are now glad to know, as we before supposed, that the reports in the above paper are entirely different from the official one as taken by a stenog- rapher, expressly employed by the Society. In fact, they are entirely erro- neous. In justice to Col. Wilder, the President, we copy that portion of the stenographic report in relation to the Hosen Shenck pear. Ellwanger. It is a pear of no character with us; occasionally, we meet with a very high flavored specimen ; but I should not recommend it. The President. It is known here as Moore's Pound. " Mr. Hovey says there is another pear which is the true Hosen Shenck. The pear we are discussing here is the pear sent out to us from Western New York, as the Hosen Shenck, which with us is the same as Moore's Pound." In a further report in the Country Gentleman we are reported as saying, when the Triumph de Gand strawberry was up for discussion, " that we would as soon eat a turnip as that variety." Now, although we are ready to admit that we don'c think much of the Triumph, we never made any such remark. The report is manufactured to suit the opinion of the reporter, and when the Official Proceedings of the Society are published, a compari- son of the two reports will show the value of that in the Country Gentle- man. The Report in relation to the Mauxion pear was similar, Mr. Wilder simply stating that Mr. Hovey said " it looked very much like the Merriara," which it does. 526 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. P^assatljiisetts p0riitu[tiira[ Societg. Saturday, October 4, 1 802. — The Annual Meeting of the Society for the choice of officers was held to-day, and resulted as follows: — President — Charles M. Hovey. Vice Presidents— 3 . F. C. Hyde, C. O. Whitmore, W. C. Strong, Geo. W. Pratt. Treasurer — William R. Austin. Corresponding Secretary — Eben Wight. Recording Setretary — F. Lyman Winship. Professor of Botany and Vegetable Physiology — John L. Russell. Professor of Zoology — J. W. P. Jenks. Professor of Horticultural Chemistry — A. A. Hayes. Executive CommiUee — The President, Chairman ; the Treasurer, J. S. Cabot, Marshall P. Wilder, Joseph Breck. Committe for Establishing Premiums — Chairman of Committee on Fruits, Chairman; Chairmen of Committees on Floweis, Vegetables, and Gardens, and Parker Barnes. Committee on Finance — Josiah Stickney, Chairman ; Marshall P. Wilder, C. O. Whitmore. Committee on the Library — Francis Parkman, Chairman ; W. H. Spooner, Jr., G. W. Pratt, L^ander Wetherell, fl, McCleary Copeland. Committee on Ornamental Gardening— W. R. Austin, Chairman; W. C. Strong ; Chairmen of Committees on Fruits, Flowers and Vegetables ; H. Weld Fuller, E. A. Story. Committee on Fruits— 3. S. Cabot, Chairman; W. C. Strong, J. F. C. Hyde, P. B. Hovey, Fearing Burr, A. C. Bowdiich, Eliphalet Stone. Committee on Flouers—E. A. Story, Chairman; J. C. Hovey, J. McTear, C. H. B. Breck, A. Apple, E. W. Huswell, S. H. Gibbens. CommiUee on Vegelablts—'D. T. Curtis, Chairman; Franklin Winship, James Nugent, Azell Bowditch, Abner Pierce, B. Harrington, L. Whit- comb. , Cnmmilee on Synonymes of Fruit — Marshall P. Wilder, Chairman ; Josiah Stickney, C. M. Hovey J. S. Cabot, Chairman of the Committee on Fruits. Committee on Puhlication — Corresponding Secretary, Chairman ; Record- ing Secretary, E. W. Buswell, Chairmen of Committees on Flowers, Fruits, Vegetables, and Gardens. The whole number of votes was 183 ; necessary for a choice, 92; C. M. Hovey received 112, and E. S. Rand, 71 votes. Adjourned one month, to November 1. NOVEMBER. 527 Dorticulfunil Dpcrafions FOR NOVEMBER. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. October has been a very favorable month ; the first frost occurred on the 21st, only two days earlier than the very warm October of 1861, and about twenty days later than the average of years. Fruits of all kinds were perfectly ripe, even the Isabella grape, and the crop has been abundant and fine. Grape Vines, in the early houses, will now begin to break, and will require constant attention. Keep up moderate fires in cloudy days, but avoid at all, times a high night temperature; a maximum of 55° is sufficient. Keep the border sheltered from heavy rains. Vines in the grapery and greenhouse may soon be pruned, cleaned of insects, washed, and tied up for the season. Vines in the cold houses will require the same care, if the wood is fully ripe ; otherwise, care should be taken to get it as mature as possible. Vines in the open air should be pruned and laid down before severe frosts. Fruit Trees, of all kinds, should be transplanted this month ; it is the best and saft-st period of the year. Orchard-Houses should be kept cool by an abundance of air. Keep the trees rather dry. Pot fresh trees, if more are wanted, and to take the place of such as fail to grow well. Strawberry Beds should have a final clearing, if weedy, and as soon as the ground begins to freeze should have a very light covering of old hay, sedweed, or coarse strawy manure ; new beds may at the same tiine be heavily manured between the rows. Winter Pears should be looked over, occasionally, throwing out such as show signs of decay. Keep the fruit-room at an even temperature of 40° to 50°. Inserts will need looking after. This is a good time to wash trees infected with the scale. Tar for tJie canker worms, as soon as they appear. Figs and Grapes, in pots, intended for forcing early, should be removed to a cool cellar till wanted. flower department. The plants having all been safely housed, or placed in frames out of danger of severe frosts, now is the time to rearrange and put everything in order for the winter ; at the same time attending to the repotting of such plants as need it, or that are wanted for a succession. Camellias should all be thoroughly washed or cleansed, as nothing disfigures the plant more than a dusty, dirty foliage. All crooked specimens should be tied up to neat, strong stakes ; and this is the season for pruning them into shape, 528 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. although at the sacrifice of some of the blossoms. Azaleas need the same care ; when fine pyramidal or handsomely shaped plants are wanted they should be neatly tied in, that the branches may become fixed before the time of blooming. Runners, planted either on pillars, trellises, or in pots, should be tied in neatly and pruned, if they require it. Soils should be housed, to be in readiness for use early in the spring. Pelargoniums will now be growing stocky, and acquiring vigor against the period of repotting next month. Keep rather dry and cool, and in a situation near the glass; avoid everything like a forced growth. Cinerarias and Calceolarias may be shifted into larger pots. Fumi- gate often for the green fly. Azaleas, wanted for late flowering, in March or April, or even May, should be kept in the very coolest part of the house. Water sparingly, and attend to the directions above given. Plants for early blooming may be at once removed to the hothouse, and watered freely. Heaths should be kept in tlie coolest part of the house, where they can have an abundance of air. Water carefully at this season. Camellias should be well syringed in fine sunny weather, and have moderate supplies at the root. Repotting may yet be done, if the plants actually require it. Monthly Carnations should be kept neatly tied up to strong stakes. Give them a good place, near the glass. Cuttings of Bedding Plants, put in in September, should now be potted off", placing several round the edges of the pots. Japan Lilies, for blooming in the house, may be potted this month. Hyacinths should be potted this month. Neapolitan Violets brought into the house from a cold frame will flower freely. Cyclamens should have a cool place on a shelf, near the glass. Chrysanthemums, now coming into bloom, will flower better if watered occasionally with liquid manure. Gloxinias and Achimenes, done flowering, may be placed away, where they can be kept dry, and moderately warm. FLOWER GARDEN AND SHRUBBERY. Perennial Plants, in the borders, should have a slight covering of leaves, or strawy manure. Bulbs, of all kinds, should be planted immediately; cover the beds with strawy manure before cold weather. Pkri'ktual Roses may be covered up by bending the shoots to the ground. Manure heavily all kinds of roses. Plants, in cold frames, siiould be protected with a good covering of dry leaves, and shutters or sashes, to keep off heavy rains. THE LESSON OF THE YEAR. Experience is the best of teachers ; it educates the gardener through the power of facts. Books, upon which we rely so much, and which indeed are ahuost indispensable, lead us, with occasional exceptions, in the right direction, but they often fail us when unaided by experience. True horticultural skill is only attained by careful observation, through a series of years, and the application of those observations to the ob- jects of culture. The most minute directions may be laid down to make a cutting, pot a plant, or prune a tree, but the treatment in each case, the condition of the wood, the me- chanical texture of the soil, the force and nature of the tree, and a thousand other things, can never be written down, and must be the result of actual experience. It is this that makes the difference between the thorough practical man and the general cultivator ; every year adds some^thing to the accu- mulated stock of information of the former, which the latter does not heed, or quite overlooks ; and it is these little things, too insignificant, apparently, to demand attention, that give success to one or cause failure to the other. We do not intend to say by this, that none but practical men succeed. Far from it. There are men who call them- selves practical, who labor through a whole life without treas- uring up any information, while there are amateurs with dis- cerning eyes and thinking minds, who in a short period un- derstand every operation they undertake. But the instances are rare, and even with these experience teaches many things which the most intuitive cannot well know. The varying seasons alone are a study to the successful cultivator, and reveal in their alternate results lessons of the deepest value. It is therefore the accumulated fund of information, which with time and practice, aided by study and observation, make the skilful gardener, and enable him to accomplish success- fully, often under adverse circumstances, everything he un- dertakes. VOL. XXYIII. — NO. XII, 34 530 THE MAGAZIiNE OF HORTICULTURE. The season now drawing to a close is a lesson in its way, showing how much experience adds to our success. With nothing remarkable to note as regards the ordinary charac- teristics of the weather, yet the year has been unusually favorable. The growth of trees and plants has been vig- orous ; the fruit crop very great, and even more than this, remarkably large, fair, excellent, and keeping well. This, too, following one in which trees had suffered to an unexam- pled degree for this latitude. The President of the Pomo- logical Society, in his late address at the last session, alluded to this subject, in what he most filtingly termed the " vicissi- tudes that attend cultivation," showing how severe was the injury to trees of every kind ; yet we have seen that after all this damage, it has in no way affected the health of the trees, or diminished their productive power ; on the contrary they have seemed to receive a fresh stimulus after a year of comparative rest. But the question may be asked, after such serious injury, how has this recuperative power been brought about, and what does it teach ? That is what most concerns the culti- vator. We see its effects : we seek to know the cause. Our object is to make this inquiry, and if we find any facts to apply them hereafter. As we stated before, the season has been neither remarkable for heat or cold ; we have had no excessively warm days ; but it will be noted that we have had more rain than usual, and at short intervals, just when needed, so that the ground has been uniformly moist, without being wet. No doubt this has been one of the most efficient aids to a uniform and handsome crop of fruit, though in no way aiding in the formation of fruit buds, that being effected the preceding autumn ; leaving therefore for a time the growth and beauty of the crop, we turn to the imj)ortant ])criod previous to the opening of the blossoms. Tlie winter of 18G0 and 18G1 was exceedingly variable, with great extremes of temperature, and a sudden fall of the mercury, almost beyond precedent, and fruit trees were so much injured — in some instances quite killed — that many kinds did not produce any fruit, and otlicrs only a partial crop. Cherry trees not only lost all their buds, but tlie DECEMBER. 531 growth was much affected, and it was feared many of the older trees would not survive tlie injury ; yet they have pro- duced this year enormously, and the trees show no ill effects of the previous year. So with pears, one of our more varia- ble fruits. " The trees were in some cases greatly damaged, and bore but little fruit ; while in some few localities the crop was nearly up to the average. Various causes have been assigned as the reason of this injury. Some ascribe it to the severe frost of October, 1860, when the thermometer fell to 2-1°, with the trees in full leaf, and before they had thoroughly ripened their wood ; others to the combined effects of this and the subsequent severe cold of February, 1861, with the mercury at 20° below zero; and others, again, to the latter cold alone. That the frost of October could have done no injury is best proved by the fact that peach trees, which had some of their branches acciden- tally covered with snow, so as to be out of danger from the cold of February 8, flowered and produced fruit; showing that before the fall of any snow, even that most susceptible tree was quite safe. We must therefore fall* back to the sudden and extreme low temperature of February, as the main cause of all the injury. This is more apparent when we reflect that in the winter of 1856 and '57, the thermometer fell just as low, (20° below) yet even the peach buds were not injured, the cold then coming on gradually, with a continuation of dull, cloudy weather. It was the sudden transition from heat to cold in twelve hours, (more than 60°) witli a high, piercing northwest wind, that penetrated to the very heart of the wood. Such was the condition of the trees in the spring of 1861. The summer was favorable, and such varieties as bore a fine crop, of which there were several, produced very good fruit. The autumn was prolonged, and without frost, and the winter followed, milder than any for several years, so that trees were m fine condition at the advent of spring. No frosts, nor cold easterly rains occurred during the period of blooming, and the trees set an unusual crop. The character of the summer and autumn is fresh in our minds, and every cultivator can readily estimate its results. The pear crop, which we 532 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. especially notice, because it has been considered one of our more capricious fruits, lias been not only large, but very fine, showing that tliere is some cause, or a combination of causes, for this unusual success. Some cultivators may say that it is in consequence of the rest, which the trees obtained last year : others that it is the favorable summer ; and others, perhaps, the mild winter. If we consider all these as having something to do with it, we may not be out of the way. We find, on reference to our notes of the seasons, carefully kept for thirty years, that the pear crop has never been large after a very severe winter ; and we ourselves believe that it is the character of the winter which more or less seriously affects the trees, though less sus- ceptible to cold than the peach or grape, or even the cherry. Still, extreme and particularly sudden frosts, destroy, or greatly injure the fruit buds, depriving them of the power of retaining their blossoms, which bloom, but fall ere the fruit is set, or immediately afterwards. Those who are careful observers, and have had many varieties in their col- lections, will have noticed that in some seasons certain sorts will fail, which in another show no such defect. Even a very cold rain, or dry piercing wind, will severely affect some particular kinds, w^hen coming into flower, causing nearly every blossom to drop. So, too, the effects of the winter materially injure the abundance and excellence of the harvest ; tlie fruit buds, in their incipient state, once weakened, cannot, we believe, fully recover from it. We tliink the season of 1861 w^as a lesson in this respect. The Bartlctt and some other pears, which we have named in an article in our last volume, failed entirely, while the Louise Bonne and others produced an average crop; yet all must recollect that there was an unu- sual numl)er of knurly, and deformed specimens, not as affected by insects, but truly malformations, just as weakness in an early stage of their formation would be likely to give bucll a result. In making, tlicrefore, a final comparison of tlie crop of this year with others, it must be borne in mind that the abundance and excellence of the crop must not all be attributed to the summers. DECEMBICR. 533 Undoubtedly a more favorable season has rarely been ex- perienced. The rains have been distributed with unusual regularity over the entire summer ; and the quantity has been abundant; no extremes of heat, nor sudden cold, no storms of rain nor high winds have endangered the crops ; even insects appear to have been less numerous than usual ; all has been propitious throughout the year. Such results should stimulate us to know the cause if it can be ascertained. But though this may not be, we caji at least act with a reference to them, and, if possible, obtain similar success again. We cannot prevent the severity of the winter, but we can do something to mitigate it. It is certain that many gardens well sheltered by high fences or evergreen trees, suffered but very little, when others were despoiled of their crop. We can, therefore, do much to save our fruit trees from injury, by making plantations of evergreen trees, which shall screen them from cutting winds, sifting, as Mr. Tudor's double fences do at Nahant, the wind, and depriving it of its inten- sity before it reaches the trees. Every garden or orchard of pear trees intended to produce the finest fruit should be so •sheltered. An enthusiastic and intelligent cultivator, who raised some of the finest specimens of pears ever exhibited before the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, attributed his success, in a great degree, to a high, close fence, entirely around his garden. The idea struck us as a good one, and every year shows the wisdom of his judgment. Everything wintered safely, the summer may materially interfere with the excellence of the crop ; but the lesson of the year should not be lost. We have seen that moisture regularly distributed throughout the season, is one secret of such great results. Temperature less affects the crop than moisture. We have in previous volumes enlarged upon this, and referring to those remarks, we need not extend them further at this time. Experience, as we have said, is the best of teachers, and the cultivator who has not learned some- thing from the year's results, will fail to achieve success. 53-1 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. HALF HOURS WITH OLD AUTHORS. BY WILSON FLAGG. The Vineyard : a Treatise shewing the Nature and Meth- od OF Planting, Manuring, Cultivating and Dressing op Vines in Foreign Parts, &c. By S. J., inscribed to the Duke of Chandois. London, 1732. The aim of the author of this Treatise was to encourage the cultivation of the grape in Great Britain, "wliere, in liis time, but little attention had been paid to it. "With this intent he made a sort of horticultural tour of the Continent of Europe, and tlie book, under notice, contains the result of his observa- tions. It liad long been a prevailing opinion, that the raising of vines to any tolerable perfection in England, was impracti- cable, and tliat all attempts of that nature would prove fruit- less, owing chiefly to the cold and damp and sluggish climate of that country. The author believed tliat, with extraordi- nary care, the vine would grow in England as well as any other tender fruit, and that the grapes produced from these vines would be better fitted for making wine than tliose raised in the South of Europe. In confirmation of this opin- ion, he states that the v^'ines of several of the more northerly parts of France are much finer and preferable to those of the more southern provinces. This we know to be true of cider made from Northern apples, compared with that made from Southern apples. The author states further, that tlic wines of the Mosel, which lies so far northerly that the grapes of those parts never come to maturity, are yet, by the industry of the inhal)itants, rendered fine, potable, pleasant, and pref- erable to tliosc of other more southern parts ; and, with this advantage, that they will keef) throe, four, or five times as long as the otlier, and be better for keeping, whereas, the others will keep hardly five or six years, and some not so long. lie mentions, also, several instances of divers persons who, out of curiosity, had made wine from grapes of their own rais- ing in Enghiiid, which were found to excel many foreign wines in pl('as;int, brisk and p;ihital)k; flavor. lie mentions a fact DECEMBER. 535 of whicli ho was witness, of a lot of native grapes which did not attain maturity ; and so green and tart as not to be eata- ble. The owner of these grapes proffered them to any one who was willing to gather them. The donation was accepted, the grapes were all gathered, even to the very greenest and hardest of all, in order to try an experiment. They were pressed, and the liquor put up into casks, a little of it being first warmed to promote a fermentation, witli some brown sugar. After this it was suffered to stand a few months in a warm place, to accelerate the ripening thereof. When being drawn off into bottles, about two montlis afterwards, it was found to be a good, bright, fine and strong bodied wine, per- fectly made and well flavored; and by excellent judges it was esteemed to be an excellent new Muscadine wine. My reasoji for quoting so much of the author on this point is to show that grapes may be raised for wine in a country which is too cold to mature them ; and this fact may serve as some encouragement for the extensive cultivation of the grape in our Northern States, considering that where the crop fails to reach maturity, it may be manufactured into wine. The author thinks, likewise, that tliere is less difference in favor of the cultivation of the grape in southern provinces, compared with those- situated more northerly, than is gen- erally believed. He says tlie intemperance of the seasons must be allowed by everybody who has travelled over France. The violent and impetuous storms of hail and wind, even in the midst of summer, attended by sudden damps and chills, frequently blast and destroy the vineyards, and the fairest prospect of the husbandman is often destroyed in a few hours. There is indeed seldom a season when the vines in some parts or other are not injured or destroyed by these vicissitudes of the climate. The author remarks that the climate of England, though colder, is not subject to so many remarkable accidents. The same remarks are more or less applicable to the different parts of the United States. Although no one would question the superiority of the Middle States, compared with the North- ern States for raising the grape, it is a matter of notoriety that the autumnal frosts occur as early in Maryland as in Massa- chusetts. 536 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. The author, without claiming for such a climate as England an equality with the southern and middle countries of Europe, in its capacity for producing the grape, belieres, nevertheless, that if his countrymen understood its culture, and were adepts in planting, pruning, and the general management of vine- yards, their success in the grape culture might be highly profitable. The practice, he says, of all countries, and all ages, show the culture and tillage to be the most essential part in a good vineyard. ^Esop's old man, he continues, gave a good lesson to his sons, when he left them, as a legacy, the money he had buried in his vineyard, which their greedy de- sire made them interpret to be some heaps of gold concealed in the earth, and made them industrious to dig through the whole vineyard, and turn up the soil in all places. They were cliagrined when they could not find one penny ; but the ensuing crop made them an ample amends for their labor. They at last perceived their father's device to be very bene- ficial, and the legacy he left them to be an inexhaustible fund of riches, which tliey might reap annually, if tl^ey would only give themselves the trouble of digging for it. The preference due to the wines of some provinces, compared with others, is not, in the author's opinion, owing entirely to the soil, but to different and superior modes of culture. And •he undertakes to prove that in ancient times vineyards were planted with good success in England, and that there are many places where they formerly were, which retained the jiame of vineyard in his day. Such as are curious to be satisfied of this fact, need only have recourse to "Dooms Day-Book" in the Tower, the grand record of. the lands in the kingdom of Great Britain. In this are recorded number- less instances of vineyards. Plow they came to be destroyed is easily explained, when it is considered that corn is a more necessary article for the support of life tlian the grape. And since in former times the inhabitants wci'o obliged to inij)ort vast quantities of corn from France, Ehmders, and other parts, the prices naturally were enhanced. To prevent the evil conse<|uences of a scarcity, an inquiry was connncinced, whether the English soil was not as fit to produce wiieat, barley and oaLs, as it DECEMBER. 537 was found productive of vinos. The experiment answered beyond expectation ; and the first who fell into the custom of sowing corn instead of planting vineyards, reaped such ex- travagant profits from their enterprise, as caused the inhab- itants to devote themselves generally to the culture of grain instead of the vine. The same reasons did not exist on the Continent for abandoning the grape culture. It is remarkable that Pliny, in his History, commends the wines of England, for goodness, and an agreeable taste and relish, peculiar to the growth of that country, as not being apt to turn sour as others were. At the same time he com- mends the ale and beer of France and Spain, in bis time. His remarks would hardly apply to the present state of things in those countries. The author indulges in the following curious speculations : He remarks that interest originally was the motive to discontinue the cultivating of vines in England, and to turn the vineyards into arable lands. A practice, not much unlike it he observed in his own time in Kent, when thousands of acres of tillage were turned into cherry gardens and hop grounds. Should the profits from these introduce a general practice through the nation, it might, he thinks, in the course of a century or two, be thought impracticable to raise wheat, barley, rye, oats, or other grain or pulse in these northern parts. He remarks that the introduction of the peach, the necta- rine, the apricot, tlie cherry and the hop, were treated with as much ridicule and opposition, as the cultivation of the grape, and decried as equally impracticable. No reader of modern pomology needs to be informed that the culture of the fruits abovenaraed has been attended even in the dull cold climate of England with great success. The soil selected by the French for the planting of vine- yards is stony, gravelly, sandy or chalky ; not meadow or arable land, such being chiefly appropriated to raising corn, which is generally more profitable than vineyards to the owners. Indeed, rather gravelly and sandy soils are thought to be productive of better flavored and earlier fruit, though of less abundant crops. In planting a vineyard, then, three things are generg^lly observed. 538 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. First, that the soil be either chalky, sandy, or light and gravelly, and not a heavy, cold nor clayey soil. Secondly, that it lie on the sonth, or the soutlnvest side of a hill or ascent, (the steepness of which is no objection) the better to protect it from the north and northeast winds. Thirdly, that it be upon the bank, or banks of rivers, south- erly to the same ; or running by, or through the vineyard. A piece of ground thus laid out has all that can be desired in appearance, to be made into a rich and fruitful vineyard, with proper industry and care. As to the soil, the vines, being of a luxurious nature, must not be pinched in the ground, but have room and liberty to spread and shoot below the surface, which a light, gravelly or sandy soil will permit; but a cold, heavy, clayey soil, deadens, chills and binds the roots, so that they cannot spread and extend themselves in the earth, as they ouglit to do ; nor has it juices and nourishment to furnish this supply. It may be added, that a light, sandy, gravelly or chalky soil is much warmer than any otiier. The planting on the side of a hill exposes the vines more to the heat of the sun, keeps off the intemperate winds, and throws off the rain, when too copious showers might be preju- dicial, by chilling the roots of the vines ; the ascent can never be an ol)jection ; as the autlior remarks, that he has fre- quently seen vineyards planted on the sides of hills, almost perpendicular. A vineyard, planted in this manner, can never want suffi- cient moisture, even in the dryest season ; for wlicn the drought is the most excessive, the dews and vapors which are nightly cxlialed from tlie low grounds descend upon the vines and give tlicm rcfresliment. This is the method, he remarks, wliicli is observed in Bur- gundy and Champaign, in ])lanling vineyards; and lliese being hilly, mountainous countries, the inhabitants have the greater o])portunity of planting in the manner described. And it is to ti)is practice that the inliabitants of those provin- ces allow the prefirencc given to tlieir wines lo \)c dnc ; for they themselves allow that till this in-aclieo bectune general among them, their wines had no extiaordinary reputation or credit. DKCEBIBER. 539 From certain facts stated by tlic author, lie concludes that it is not from any particular quality in the soil of those coun- tries that differ from each other, or from the soil of the rest of the country, tliat gives the particular quality or flavor to eitlier of their wines, and renders them preferable to others ; but it is from the particular method and industry of the na- tives, and the manner observed by them, in managing and cultivating their vineyards. It may be observed here, that the management, culture, tillage and manuring and pruning of the vineyards, are as different as the several provinces. So likewise the times and sea.sons, for these different branches of culture, differ very widely in different provinces, just as they differ in the man- agement of other crops. He esteems a vineyard raised from the grapestor^s much better than one raised from layers ; for those vines produced from the grapestones are mucli stronger, will produce more fruit, and are more adapted to the soil ; they will flourish longer, and will bear the vicissitudes of the weather, with less injury than those brought from another soil. He mentions another observation, which he made in several places among the vineyards, which is, that in the spaces be- tween the vines, they frequently plant French beans, or kid- ney beans ; that is, if the vines are planted in ridges, they sow a row or two of French beans in the furrows. Or, if the vines are in trenches, then a row or two of beans shall be planted on the ridges. These, however, must be only dwarf beans, for if the high beans are sowed, or peas, they will be injurious to the vineyards by entangling themselves with the vines and shading them too much. The dwarf beans only shade the ground. Others are in the habit of sowing lettuces, spinach, chevril and similar plants in the spaces between the vines ; but what- ever be sowed, care must be taken to observes these rules : — first, that you select such plants as do not take deep root into the earth ; and such as do not exhaust the soil ; and such as are of a different nature from the vines, and lastly such as will be soon off the srround before the vintage comes on. 540 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. The author gives the following rules for the choice of grapes for the manufacture of wines: — First, your grapes must not be too green, when they are gathered, if they are the following results will appear : the wine in that case will be hard and backward, and it will require much more labor to press the grapes, and the quantity of juice will be much less than if they were more fully ripe, and the color of the wine will be injured. Secondly, they must not be over ripe, for m that case the wine will be sickish and ropy ; it will not keep well ; and the color will be faint and dull. POMOLOGICAL GOSSIP The Adirondac Grape. — Having stated what we thought of this new grape from what we saw of it, and given the opin- ion of others, we present the following from a correspond- ent : — I see from your comments in the Magazine of Horticulture on the Adirondac grape, you say " it is scarcely possible for it to be a seedling of the Isabella, having been found where you thouglit the Isabella had not been introduced." You cannot fnid a town iu tlie valley of Lake Champlaiu that has not got Isabella grape vines iu it ; it is tlie most common vine on tlie lake shores ; most every one that pretends to grow grapes has it; some thoroughly ripen, always getting so as to be eatable. The original Adirondac vine stands but a few steps from the Lake, in tlie town of Port Henry, N. Y. I do not think it equal to the Delaware, Diana, or even the Concord, for this region. — Yours, F. J. ]\L [When Mr. Bailey stated it originated at the " foot of the Adirondac," we did not suppose he intended the whole valley of the Lake, but that it was found in the woods, or some out- of-the-way place, a chance seedling. It certainly is nothing remarkable that such a grape should be found in cultivated DECEMBER. 541 gardens. We were not quite so ignoi-ant as to suppose the ^ Isabella was not a common grape tlirougliout New York State, as well as New England. As to its quality, we only judged from tasting a single berry, which appeared good. Of its earliness or lateness, or general characteristics, we know nothing more timn has been stated in regard to it by Mr. Bailey and others. — Ed.] Thomson's New Mubcat Grape. — Mr. Thomson of Dal- keith recently exliibited some specimens of his seedling grape before the Royal Horticultural Society. It was quite ripe, and possessed the richest and most delicious flavor, combining all the properties of its parents — Muscat of Alexandria and Chasselas Musque. It was remarked by the Committee that the juice had a peculiarly honied character, and a flavor that remained long on the palate. Unfortunately the bunch had suiFered considerably in the carriage, from ill usage on the way, and many of tlie berries had been shaken off, while others were so loosened as to have become discolored. In consequence of this misfortune the Committee did not make any award ; but at tlie same time, stated that, in their opin- ion, the grape was one of great merit, and of first-rate excel- lence. Champion Hamburgh Muscat. — Mr. Melville, of Dalmeney Park Gardens, sent, at the same meeting, two bunches of his Champion Hamburgh Muscat. This also was exhibited last year, when the color was of a grizzly appearance. As now shown the skin is almost as dark as that of a Black Ham- burgh, and there is no doubt but that when the fruit is better grown, and more pains have been bestowed on the cultivation of the vine than Mr. Melville has been able to give it, the color will be quite black. The flavor was excellent, of a de- cided Hamburgh character, and with a marked Muscat aroma. As Mr. Melville intimated that he would send a better bunch to the September Meeting, the Committee suspended final judgment till then ; but meanwhile expressed the opinion that this is a first-rate grape, even as exhibited. HoYAL Horticultural Society Great Exhibition op Fruit. — This Exhibition was held in the Society's Garden, October 8, 9, and 10, and was considered a very successful affair. 542 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. The competitors for the prizes for pears were numerous, " but, notwithstanding this," says the reporter, " it is wortliy of remark, that the sorts exhibited did not exceed 40 or 60, but were chiefly confined to about 20 of the comparatively old Flemish pears, and 10 or 12 kinds of more recent introduc- tion, that are universally esteemed for their excellent quali- ties." We copy what was most noticeable in the exhibition, particularly in regard to grapes. Mr. Hill contributed six noble bunches of Muscat of Alexandria, which, together, weighed 17| pounds, and Mr. Sage, gardener to Earl Howe, showed a bunch of Trebiana, which weighed 7J pounds. The most remarkable black grape was shown by Mr. Meridith and Mr. Cox, under the name of Kempsey Alicante, the ber- ries of which were very large, long and oval, and Mr. Meri- dith's specimen mors resembled a closely packed dish of ])lums than a bunch of grapes. Tlie Society's garden at Chiswick furnished a collection of (50 different sorts, among which were good examples of Dutch Hamburgh, Barbarossa, Raisin de Calabre, Burchardt's Prince, and Black Monukka. The latter has long oblong berries, in the way of the Kemp- sey Alicante, and is said to be an excellent grape. The finest epecinicns in this collection were those of the Frankenthal, of wliich there was a large basket full, that vied in size, botli of bunch and berry, as well as in bloom, with any in tlie collec- tion. Messrs. Burdin, Maggioro & Co. of Tarin, sent 322 sorts of grapes. Among tliem some promising and very beautiful varieties, which in the liands of English cultivators may prove valuable. The following are the names of a few that attract- ed our attention : — Grignolino bianca, amber colored ; Las Bianca, round, ricli amber ; Grignolino rosctta, amber ; Cro- valetto, pale, grizzly ; Scottionc, pale green, inclining to am- ber ; Seros bianco, large, white ; Madonna, nearly white ; Argentino, round, golden, inclining to amber ; Erbalucc, rose, bright grizzly, beautiful ; Albarclla, large, round, black ; Cardona, round, large bunch, black ; Damascina, large, pale black ; San Fendente, round, l)lack ; Bonarda, round, black ; Grosse Qilillade, round, black ; Morettone, round, black ; Frcsia grossa, round, black. Two of the most remarkable in the collection were the Pizzatello and Galctta bianca, the DECEMBER. 543 berries of each being very long', tapering to both ends, and of a pale green, tinged with anibur. Variation in Fruits. — On loolung over your last number of the Magazine, p. 601, I met with .the title of an article by Mr. Manning of Salem, on the "Difficulties of Identifying the Varieties of Fruit." Will you allow me to mention a fact, that to cultivators may be not unusual. From a tree in my garden I picked, on October 1, a dozen pears, of a green color, a few having on the sunny side a slight tinge of red. Four being particularly large, but entirely green, and weighing 14 and 15 ounces each, I sent (by a friend) to New Haven, and they were shown to some cultivators of fruit as "Flemish Beauties." No one recognized them, or admitted their " title " to the name. Their color and size did not agree. They were laid aside in a drawer for three weeks, and became, on the' sunny side, over a small area on the neck slightly reddish, and the whole remaining surface an orange yellow. When cut, the taste was convincing to all as that of the best " Flem- ish Beauty." The tree is a graft on a quince stock (very strong) taken from an older tree near by, which is a graft on a native pear stock, from a so-called Flemish Beauty, in New Haven. I ate in October, at Albany, russet broum Flemish Beauties, from Salem, and afterwards similar ones at New Haven, raised there. IIow do those I raised differ from Flemish Beauty, and why the difference in color and size ? and if not Flemish Beauties, what are they ? I have known no other variety to thrive in this village, and I know of nothing peculiar in soil or culture. — Respectfully yours, 0. P. Hubbard, [Instances similar to the above are quite common, especially with the Flemish Beauty, the pears often being highly colored in the sun, at others entirely traced with a thick bronzy rus- set, and again wholly green, occasionally from the same tree. There is little doubt that the pears described by Mr. Hubbard were the Flemish Beauty. The same variation has given rise to innumerable synonymes to some pears, the Brown Beurrd having been called the Beurr^ dore, when very much covered with golden russet, though often qnite green. The Passe Colmar has been called the Passe Colmar dor^, when 544 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. found growing in some peculiarly favorable soil or locality, and the Benrre Diel, generally quite green, is frequently covered with russet. These variations have never been satis- factorily accounted for, but they are familiar to pomologists, and are always taken into consideration in the identification of fruits.— Ed.] THE HYACINTH. BY WM. PAUL, NURSERIES, WALTHAM CROSS, NEAR LONDON. "We have, in our several volumes, given many articles on the culture of this beautiful spring flower. Many years ago we cultivated it extensively, and with the greatest success, and it was no unusual thing to have a large bed, fifty feet long, every season, which made a most magnificent display throughout the month of May. At that period it was a scarcer flower than at present, and but few bulbs were plant- ed, except the trasliy stuff purchased at the auction rooms. Our own collection was received direct from the largest cul- tivators in Harlem, and embraced some of the newest varie- ties. So strikingly beautiful were the flowers, and so suc- cessful were our efforts in their culture, that we gave a detailed account of their growth in one of our early volumes, to which we can refer the amateur for hints, to which we liave little or nothing to add after a period of twenty-five years. A favorite flower, we have not been neglectful of its treat- ment, and in nearly every volume, since that time, something may be found regarding its culture, some of the articles being the experience of our own cukivators, and others that of English and Continental growers. In fact, a reference to our back volumes would adbrd all the information necessary to the young cullivator or experienced amateur ; but in regard to the liyacinth, like some other favorites, too much cannot be said, and although it may be a repetition in part of what has been already written, we present the following article DECEMBER. 545 from the Iloyal Horticultural Society's Proceedings, contrib- uted by Mr. Paul of the Chcshunt Nursery. It will at least prevent a reference to back volumes, which many of our sub- scribers may not possess, though we think they would find them a valuable aid in the management of fruits, flowers, or plants. A good bed of hyacinths is one of the few things to be long remembered. They flower immediately after the frost leaves the ground, and continue in beauty a long time, and they are delightfully fragrant, varied in color, and stately in aspect ; and if to this we add, simple in their culture, exceedingly hardy, and blooming at a season when there are few or no other flowers, they deserve more extensive introduction into every garden. The remark of Mr. Paul that the hyacinth " suffers less from wind and snow, from sleet and hail, than many hardy spring flowers," reminds us of a circumstance which will show its very hardy character. We think it was early in May, 1832, or 1833, that we had a large bed just in the prime of bloom ; a snow storm — one of the rare ones we have so late in the spring — of two or three inches, covered the bed, and a fall of the thermometer, during the night, froze every flower so stiff that each spike was as erect and firm as if made of wax. We thought their beauty was en- tirely destroyed, and the sun would soon reveal a wilted mass of blossoms; but, judge of our surprise, when, the next day, and the next week, and for a long time, they were all as perfect and beautiful as if they had basked in the most favored sunshine. This shows the hardy character of the hyacinth in strong contrast with the tulip, which one hot sun or one high wind will quite destroy all the beauty of coloring, though the gay flaunting flowers may remain. Fpr our cold climate, therefore, the hyacinth is the flower ; less gorgeous than the tulip, but more varied in color, and above all possess- ing a powerful and delightful odor : — Of the many candidates for popular support in the present extended list of garden favorites there are few receiving more attention at the present time than the hyacinth. Its beauty, fragrance, and variety are so many separate points of attrac- VOL. XXVIII. — NO. XII. 35 546 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. tion, and the season at which it blooms is worth j of especial consideration. By the appearance of the hyacinth winter is driven from its last strongholds, and the garden suddenly rejoices in all the brilliancy of a summer parterre. Then the plant is of such easy culture, that while the highest attain- ments in the art may be reserved for the patient exercise of skill and industry, the "prentice hand" in gardening may reasonably expect to attain to fair and satisfactory results. In a word, the plant is more manageable than many of its compeers, and hence there is less fear of failure from the oversight of any of those little kindnesses and attentions which the skilled horticulturist knows so well when and how to apply. In treating of the culture of the hyacinth three separate points occur to me: — 1. The possession of good bulbs; 2. The season of planting; 3. After culture: and these I shall proceed to discuss separately. 1. Good Bulbs. — The best hyacinths are imported from Holland. A more beautiful sight could scarcely be conceived than the gardens in and around Harlem in the spring and early summer months, with their acres of ground, radiant with millions of crocuses, tulips, hyacinths, blue, white, red, and yellow, of the richest and most varied hues, the more grateful to the eye, and the more impressive, because follow- ing so closely on the footsteps of winter. As is well known, the culture of the hyacinth and its allies is a specialty in Holland. I do not see why it should not be the same herej as tlie differences in some localities, climates, ond soils of England appear to me insuflicient to account for iL not being so. Perhaps our horticulturists are too much occupied with other matters, and certainly it would be commercially unwise to enter the hold against such skilful and indefatigable con- temporaries without first acquiring a thorough knowledge of so distinct a branch of tlie art of gardening. We may, and I believe do grow and bloom them as well here as there. But the question remains, can we bring bulbs of our own gi'owth into the market of the same quality and at the same price ? The answer is, not at present. We can, in the ])resent state of our knowledge and practice, buy and sell cheaper than we can produce. DECEMBER. 547 The hyacinth being a bulbous plant, the sources of supply, at least during the early stages of growth, depend on the nutriment stored up in the bulb the year before. Thus it will be inferred that it is as important to obtain good bulbs as to grow them well when obtained. And I would here caution the cultivator against placing too much confidence in large bulbs. True, if a bulb is sound, solid, weighty, and well stored with eliminated food, the larger the better ; but there are many large, showy, frothy bulbs sold every year in Hol- land and in England which fail before these tests, and which it requires a practised eye and hand to apply. Then again, there are some beautiful sorts of hyacinths — of which Groot- vorst is a familiar example — which seldom produce large handsome bulbs. On the other hand, there are some indif- ferent kinds which generally produce bulbs of great size and beauty. But further, bulbs of the same kind differ in value in the hands of different cultivators. In proof of it we need only adduce one fact — and whether it be attributed to the greater skill of the cultivator or to the superiority of his soil, the fact remains — that there is a difference of 20 per cent, in the prices of the different growers, and the highest priced stock always commands the readiest market. Having laid the foundation of a successful culture by the acquisition of good bulbs, let us pass to the next point. 2. The Season of Planting. — The natural period of rest for the hyacinth is from June to October. If planted before the latter month, the shortening of the natural period of rest diminishes the vigor of growth and the beauty of the flowers. So if the planting be delayed far beyond that period, how- ever well the bulbs may be kept, growth commences, the bulb feeds on the deposit of the previous year contained within itself without the means of recruiting the supply, and a loss of power is the consequence. Plant, then, in the month of October, applying a greater or less degree of heat, accord- ins: to the season or seasons at which the flowers are wanted. If a very early, a very late, or a long succession of bloom be required, some should be planted earlier, and some later ; but the month recommended above is the best, if the finest possi- ble bloom is required, without regard to any definite period. 548 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICTJLTUEE. 3. After Culture. — The culture of hyacinths falls natu- rally under three heads : — 1, In Pots. 2, In Glasses. 3, In the open ground. 1 . Hyacinths in Pots. It is a matter of no small impor- tance to secure a suitable soil, for although the plant in the first instance feeds on itself, the roots once in action draw- largely from the soil in order to replace the nourishment withdrawn from the bulb. A sandy loam should form the bulk of the soil, but such being usually poor, it must be en- riched by a plentiful addition of manure. Cow-dung is the best of manures for the hyacinth, and it is a good plan to ob- tain it in a fresh state, mixing it with the loam six months before required for use, turning the whole over two or three times in the interval, that the different substances may be well mixed together. When planting, place the bulb in the middle of the pot, setting it quite upright on a small bed of sand, and so that the apex of the bulb may be half an inch above the level of the soil. Soak the soil with water, and when well drained place the pots, in the first instance, out of doors on solid ground that worms may not enter. Surround the sides of the pots with cinder ashes, and cover the top with about six inches of the same material. In about two months remove the pots to a cold frame, covering with a mat for five or six days, to avoid a sudden transition from darkness to light. When the mats are withdrawn, give more or less air, according to the season at which the bulbs are wanted to flower, bearing in mind that the more air given the better, provided the frost be completely excluded. The long droop- ing leaves which we see with some cultivators is due to a too ■warm or too close atmosphere. So soon as the flower spike rises, a stiff wire should be passed between the bells the whole length of the spike, the lower end bent outwards till it reaches the circumference of the pot, winding it round the outside of the pot beneath the rim to keep tlic spike upright and steady. Plenty of water should be given from the time the leaves begin to grow till the flower shows symptoms of decay, when a gradual diminution should take place. Wlien the leaves turn yellow, water should be entirely withhold, and the bulb should be taken from the pot at the end of July, DECEMBER. 549 and stowed away in a dry place for planting in beds the fol- lowing year. The same bulbs can scarcely be recommended for planting in pots or glasses a second year, but are very good for planting out of doors. Masses of hyacinths may be planted in ornamental pots or baskets, forming the whole mass of one color, or the centre and circumference of dif- ferent colors ; and thus ordered, they are at once elegant and effective. 2. Hyacinths in Glasses. Under this form of culture we have in the hyacinth the most beautiful of house plants in winter and early spring, arriving at the same degree of per- fection in town and country. The single kinds, to my eye always the most beautiful, are especially preferable for glasses, on account of their greater earliness and hardihood. Sound- ness of bulb, at all times important, is more than commonly important here. Set the bulb in the glass so that the lower end, whence the roots are emitted, is almost, but not quite, in contact with the water. Use rain or pond water. Keep the glasses filled up as the water sinks by the feeding of the roots and evaporation. It is a general practice to place hya- cinths in glasses in a dark cupboard or some other place where the light is excluded, and a very good practice it is, for the roots feed more freely in the dark, and thus the sys- tem of the plant becomes better stored with food. They may remain in this situation for one or two months, according to the temperature in which they are placed, and should not be too suddenly transferred to tlie light. Here, as with hya- cinths in pots, when the flowering is over, the bulbs may be brought gradually into a state of rest by a diminution of the supply of water. This done, dry them, store them away, and in due season plant them in beds out of doors to bloom there the following year. 3. Hyacinths in the open Ground. I have never yet seen so much done with the hyacinth as an out-of-door plant, as I conceive might be done on principles similar to those which have been so admirably carried out in regard to " bedding plants." We have here red, white, and blue — to say nothing of the so-called yellow — of innumerable shades. Surely there is ample material for a more extended application of tliose 550 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. principles, especially if the aid of the tulip be called in. The tulip gives an abundance of yellow, a color deficient in the hyacinth. By the combination of tliese two flowers, a gor- geous and complete flower-garden may be had in spring, as well as in summer, and neither a -repetition of tlic other, but each a cliange. The hyacinth is an admirable spring flower. It sufiers less from wind and snow, from sleet and hail, than many hardy spring flowers ; indeed, almost less than any other. To-day the snow falls, and the plant is hidden and frozen ; to-morrow the sun shines, and it is as erect and bright as ever. Hyacinths out of doors should also be planted in the autumn (November.) Let the apex of tlie bulb be placed four inches beneath the surface of the soil, and after the soil is put on, add two inches of decomposed manure as a security against severe frost. In February, when all fear of severe frost is gone, the manure may be removed. The same soil as that recommended for pot-culture is suitable for hyacinths out of doors. But it may not be generally convenient to remove and replace soil in the flower garden. Well, tliis is by no means a sine qua non of success. We recommend it, but do not insist on it. The convenience of the cultivator must de- termine the matter. But if a soil be unusually light and poor, it should b3 enriched and watered abundantly ; if close and heavy, it should still be enriched, and will usually be improved by mixing with it a good proportion of clean road or riVcr sand. FLORICULTURAL NOTICES. New Amarantiius, (Amarantlius mclaiicholicus ruber.) — A new variety cf the comniou anuiranthus has been intro- duced from Japan by Messrs. Veitch, similar, but more dis- tinct tlian the well-known and jx'ctty A. tricolor. Mr. Beaton, who has grown it, thus alhuhjs to it: " So far as I can judge of its habit and gi-owtb, it will tak(! the place of Pcrilla in many cases, and very likely will be hardier than that popular DECEMBER. 651 plant, as some plants here seem to stand the cold winds verj well, thongh only recently planted. But it is mostly in the color of the foliage that its merits especially lie, and this is not easy to explain ; but those who have seen the Virginia creeper when at its best, will have a good idea of the rich hue the plant presents. Tiie brightness of its coloring I expect will continue during the entire summer, as the oldest leaves have not that sombre hue the Perilla has very late in the sea- son. It is, however, too early to prognosticate wliat its ap- pearance so late in the season may be, but at the present (August) it seems all that can be wished for ; and to those who have not yet made its acquaintance I would strongly advise them to do so, and to judge for themselves." Pteris cretica albo linea^ta. — Thisisanother of the Silver ferns, and a pretty companion to the P. argyrea and tricolor. Its habit is vigorous, and the fronds, which are not divided like the two latter, are of a very dark green, silvery on each side of the central rib. It will be a most acceptable addi- tion to every collection of ferns, and deserves general cul- tivation. Pteris nemora^lis variegata. — A new variegated fern, raised by Mr. Cole, near Manchester, and very interesting on account of its being a supposed sport from P. tricolor, from which it differs in being larger in all its parts. The fronds are pedately bipinnate, the pinnae being marked down the centre with a broad band of grayish white, on which the ribs show a faint tinge of red. It came amongst plants of P. tricolor, raised from the spines ; and in appearance is inter- mediate between that species and P. argyrea, differing, how- ever, in its smaller size, and in its red stripes. It seems to be closely allied to P. rubricaulis, a red-stemmed fern, some- times referred to along with both the preceding, to P. quad- riarita ; but is quite distinct from all the foregoing as a gar- den plant. The fronds are olive-colored when young, with the gray part pinkish. A bronze medal was awarded to it. New CnmESE azaleas. — These are so numerous that it is almost impossible to keep up with the accessions which are yearly made. We give the names and brief descriptions of several which have been exhibited before the Floral Com- 552 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. mittee of the Royal Horticultural Society, and in some cases awarded first class certificates: — Lord Canning, bright deep rose, very slightly spotted, the flowers rather small, and of fine shape and substance, the color striking and attractive : Lady Canning, larger than the last, lighter colored, and in every way inferior to it : Duchess of Sutherland, a large pale rose, slightly spotted : Queen of Roses, pale rose : Rifleman, large salmon red, of average merit : Ochroleuca, a semi-double variety, with the flowers of a dull white, greenish towards the centre ; it was of compact habit, and distinct, but not pure colored : Kinghorni, sent to show the fine character maintained by this variety : Lord Elgin, a smooth, lively, rose-colored sort, scarcely spotted: Bridesmaid and elegans, both light rose-colored sorts, the first scarcely, the second moderately spotted on the upper segments : Souvenir du Prince Albert, remarkable for the beautiful color of its flowers, which was of a bright and deep salmon-rose, with a broad and very pure white margin ; the flowers were also semi-double, but rather deficient in respect to form. It was, however, awarded a second class certificate for its fine and distinct color, which renders it very attractive as a decorative and exhibition plant: Bride of Abydos, a vigorous habited variety, with an abundance of large white flowers, well marked with flakes of light rose, or rosy pink, but it was rather deficient in evenness of surface ; it was com- mended as a showy and useful decorative variety. Lustrous, a smooth flowered, very bright rose, of inferior form ; its best property was stated to be that it remained longer in perfec- tion than any other variety. TiiK Prize Dahlias of the Year. — The great Exhibition of Dahlias was held with other autunuial flowers, by the Royal Horticultural Society, September 10th, when the fol- lowing stands were awarded the prize : — Bi.sT 48 Blooms, to Mr. Keynes, for Lord Derby, Golden Drop, Lnpcrial, Magnificent, John ITarwood, Lilac Queen, Donald Beaton, General Jackson, Pandora, Cherub, Bob Ridley, Mrs. Dodds, Leopard, Hugh Miller, Chairman, Duke of WeHiiij^^ton, Pauline, Andrew Dodds, Lady Pennant, Baron Tauntou, Mrs. Bush, Mr. Chitchell, Peri, Lord AViltshire, DECEMBER. 553 John Keynes, Earl of Sliaftsbuiy, Oscar, King of Sweden, Black Prince, Perfection, Jenny Austin, Beauty of Hilperton, Model, Sir Geo. Douglas, Lord Palraerston, Clias. Turner, Mrs. Trotter, Norfolk Plero, Pioneer, Goldfinder, Le Premier, Umpire, Souter Johnny, Lady Elcho, Geo. Brown, Mrs. Waters, Criterion. Best 24 Blooms, to Mr. C. Turner, for Mutabilis, Geo. Brown, Mrs. Bush, Model, Delicata, Earl of Shaftsbury, Umpire, Chairman, Mrs. Hooker, Beauty of Hilperton, Lilac Queen, Golden Drop, Lord Derby, Cygnet, Norfolk Hero, Lady Popham, Madge Wildfire, Captain Harvey, Hugh Miller, Peri, Sidney Herbert, Criterion, Chieftain, Lord Palmerston. Best 18 Blooms of Fancy Dahlias, to Mr. Keynes, for Queen Mab, Triomphe de Roubaix, Lady Paxton, Gem, Starlight, Mary Lander, Pauline, Souter Johnny, Garibaldi, Le Premier, Patent, Confidence, Norah Creina, Harlequin, Baron Alderson, and Reliance. It will be noticed that some of the old dahlias are still among the best. 654. Rhododendron DALHOusiiE hybridum. Lady Dal- housie's Rhododendron. (Ericacege.) Garden Hybrid. A greenhouse shrub; growing six feet high; with white flowers; appearing in spring; in- creased by grafting ; grown in heath soil. Bot. Mag., 1S62, pi. 5322. This is a splendid hybrid, raised from R. formosum, fer- tilized with R. Dalhousiae. It has the very large flowers of the R. Dalhousige, with a tinge of pink from R. formosum. The leaves are intermediate in size, and quite glabrous. Like its parent it is a noble plant, with flowers four inches in diameter. It is well worthy a place in large collections. {Bot. Mag-., July.) 655. IscHARDM Pyrami Scliott. Calla leaved Ischarum. (Aroide^.) Lake Tiberias. A greenhouse plant; growing one foot high; with dark flowers; appearing in spring; increased by division of the tubers; grown in li^hl rich soil. Bot. Mag., 1862, pi. 5324. A curious aroideous plant of dwarfish habit, with deep- green calla like leaves, and very dark blackish flowers, with very long erect pistils. It was found by Dr. Hooker, and introduced to Kew, where it flowered last spring. The flowers appear before the leaves. (^Bot. Mag-., July.) 554 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTI CULTURE ._ 656. Clusia Brongniatiana Planch. Brongniat's Clusia. (Guttifcrge.) Cayenne. \ hothouse slir:ib; arowini; lour ftji-l lii^Ii; witli while flowers, appearing in winter; increased byciiitin^s; !;ro\vii in lislitricli soil. Cot Mils . 1^62, pi 5'i'fi. A rather neat and pretty evergreen shrub ; of erect growth, large thick coriaceous leaves and terminal flowers, which ap- pear in clusters. These flowers are white, an inch in diame- ter, and crimson in the centre. It flowers in winter. (^Bot. Mag-., July.) 657. Saccalobium minia^tum Lindl. Orange Red Sacca- LOBIUM. (Orchidcae.) Java. An orchiileoiis plant; srowi: g ii foot liish; with oranjre flowers ; appearing in siring; increased by offsets. Bot. Mng , 18.2, pi. 5:i-0. A very splendid species of this fine genus, introduced from Java. The flowers appear in dense spikes, and are of the brightest orange. It requires a high temperature and much moisture to bloom it freely. (^Bot. Mag.. July.) OUR HARDY HERBACEOUS PLANTS. BY THE EDITOR. The Candytufts (Ibcris) are among our showiest annual flowers ; and tliey are also among the oldest additions to our gardens ; once introduced perpetuating themselves by self- sown seeds, and annually making their appearance in the flower border. Within a few years, however, some improve- ment has been made in tliis well-known flower, by the addi- tion of several sliadcs of color, and also increased size of blos- soms. For masses of bloom few plants will be found more decorative and useful than the Candytufts. The perennial sorts are few, and but little cultivated, yet one of them is a very beautiful border flower, and it is sur- })rising that it has so long been a stranger to our gardens. Tliis is the species known as iheMits tenorka^na. It is a native of Naples, and was introduced to English gardens in 1822. In habit it is smaller, in both leaf and DECEMBER. 555 stem and flower than the annual sorts; Init it has a more diffuse growth, and the foliage is neat and glossy, forming a dense tuft of green, ornamental even when out of flower. This species (fig. 21) grows freely in any good garden soil, and flowers profusely for a great length of time. The blossoms are pure white, but the bright red calyxes of the unopened buds give a beautiful pink tinge to those which are fully expanded, and they change to pink as they die off. IBERIS TENOKEANA. As the plants only throw up a single woody stem, and rarely produce seed, it is propagated by cuttings, taken off in August, and when rooted planted out in the open ground. It grows about 8 inches high, and is perfectly hardy. As an early spring blooming plant it is a very fine addition to the greenhouse. Cuttings, potted off as soon as rooted, wintered in a cold frame, and taken into the house in Feb- ruary or March will flower beautifully in April and May, and if then turned into the ground will bloom again nearly all summer. It is well worth a place in every collection. 556 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. IN-DOOR GARDENING. FROM THK GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. Many in-door gardeners liave a great ambition to grow Tree mignonette. I think myself it is a charming thing to do ; but I am very doubtful as to its success when the lady gar- dener is apt to be away from home for a month or two now and then. It is of all plants one that most requires care, for the first year at least. I have however had it myself in a most satisfactory and barky state, and its wiry stems seem somehow to answer well for keeping the flowers fresh in our winter vases, while they are produced in great abundance. The spikes, however, are very small, and of course they have not the pretty feathery look that mignonette has naturally, although of the two they are tlie most fragrant. The difficulty is to keep it growing regularly, and to pre- vent its flowering sooner than we wish. Very young plants of mignonette in pots are rather touchy things; they neither stand much dryness or a good soaking rain, and many a promising young plant have I lost from want of weather wis- dom, when, leaving out a set on a fine summer's night, a heavy storm next morning has washed half tlie soil away. I think Tree mignonette is therefore kept most safely wlien it is in-doors, but in this case it should have as mucli air and liglit as possible, and should be always turned round daily. The first sowing of mignonette, however, is the most im- portant point. It docs not bear to be transplanted well, and even though a small pot might, it would seem, most easily be moved into a larger one without the least disturbance, the need of a stick close to the stem and going down to the bot- tom of the pot, makes this plan a difliculty. At the same time larger pots of course take up more room, and when tlicy arc used the soil at the sides is apt to get sod- den and caked or hardened before the young roots reach it, so that the watering has to be done carefully. We have then to sow our seeds in pots in which the plants arc likely to remain for years. The drainage in these cases is always a great point; charcoal has the advantage of espe- DECEMBER. 557 cial lightness, and pieces of old mortar are also remarkably useful and make the flowers much sweeter. Loam with a little sand is the best soil to use, at any rate for in-doors, and if this has been charred a little on the kitchen shovel it will be all the better. Small bits and dust of mortar are very useful for mixing with the soil, in addition to the pieces of a larger size. The soil sliould be thorouglily well packed in, not left loose and shambly, but put in firmly and well shaken down, and it is very much better to be lumpy rather than fine. Some people I believe put in bits of sandstone, but this I have not tried. The stick should be a nice-looking one, of some rather tough brown wood. Ash is the very best, and it is worth while attending to, as an ugly stick is always so unpleasant, and a painted one is apt to be broken long be- fore it is done with. The stick should be simply planted, as if it were the plant, down to the very bottom of the pot, and its height should be within an inch or two of the height we wish our little tree to attain. The pot should be a 32. These arrangements being made, a few seeds of the large- flowered mignonette should be sown just round the stick, and the pot should be kept in a window till the young plants ap- pear. Very little watering is sufficient at first, and a little moss or a piece of paper is a useful shade till the seeds have sprouted, just by way of preventing the necessity of much watering. A north window, or still better one northeast or northwest, is the best place for the seedlings during the sum- mer months. They must be thinned out at once to three, and after a week or two only one should be left. A little earthing up is extremely useful, as the young plants seem somehow apt to get twisted round. As soon as one stem is tall enough to require tying it should be fastened loosely to the stick awaiting it. And from the first every appearance of flower buds should be at once cut out with a pair of sharp pointed scissors. The little side branches also should be stopped, that is pinched at the point, as soon as they begin to make a second pair of leaves. And after three or four months the little sliortened branches may be themselves by degrees cut off. The leaves however are rather precious at first, as helping greatly to advance the growth and to feed the plant. 558 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. On a summer's evening the plants may be watered thor- oughly over-head witli a fine rose or syringe, and if preserved from frost and damp and kept in a light place they will begin to be shrubby by next spring, when perhaps one or two might be let begin to flower. They last for many years when once well trained, and are very useful from their winter flowering. There is a very pretty and pleasant means of having an in- door garden, which does not seem to be at all commonly tried. It is to have a wide and deepish box fitted with a layer of charcoal, covered with moss and liglit peaty soil mixed with sand, forming a smooth bed. This bed should be made to rise a little in the middle, and should be allowed to settle for some days, after a slight watering. It should then, be filled up with soil, if it has sunk at all. The box being thus prepared, we have to plant in it a number of English flowering plants : wild pink geranium does remarkably well, and makes not only a charming leafy bed during most of the year, but also gives a very great abundance of its pretty blossoms. Wood sorrel grows delightfully, so do the wild strawberries, the sax- ifrages, British mosses, smaller ferns, &c., and the lovely wild convolvulus, which carpets all our dry road-sides in summer, haunting generally much the same sunny spots in which in spring we find the sweet pink wild violet. This plant has a striking family likeness, to say the least, to one of the convol- vuli with a newly invented name, recommended for hanging baskets ; and though the seed may or may not be worth a shilling a packet, the wild flower like it is extremely pretty, and has a compact unstraggly growth when grown in sandy soil that docs make it really a treasure in such a plant case. 8wcet woodruffe and lilies of the valley have the disadvan- tage of looking brown and dry after the early spring; if they are used I think they should be in pots; but there are quanti- ties of delightful little flowers which like my favorite scillas, die down out of sigiit when done with ; and the many small growing creeping and climbing things, if they keep their green, arc always very pretty. Some kinds of periwinkle, thus, would do very nicely, and might train up the sides, as might a small-leaved ivy. I have a box of this kind which answers very well ; it is, in fact, a cold glass case, only as I DECEMBER. 559 keep the glasses chiefly out, it is for practical uses much the same as a box. These boxes give a very easily managed little scrap of garden, being now and then Avatered and kept in a sunny window; and when one is able to collect flowers one- self in country walks from the dells and lanes, I really think these things become greater pets than all our finer flowers. The Linaria cymbalaria, quantities of wild campanulas, the pretty little speedwell, wild crocuses and snowdrops, wood anemones, quantities of ferns, the beautiful green mosses, all these come to mind directly, and from heaths and harebells to forget-me-nots and moisture-loving ferns we have such vari- eties to gather in all oar walks. The bulbs are particularly good because of their dying down, but some others are equally precious, because of their being evergreen; and by a little care in keeping the drier flowers together, or those that like more moisture, we can always have the loveliest wild-flower bed. Where we have some little evergreens at the corners we do not so much want climbers, but I think perhaps tlie very pret- tiest plan is that of a sort of trellis made either of crossed sticks or of threads of silk cord, up and over which the luxu- riant wild flowers twine. Violets in such cases do exquisitely in the country, but I cannot manage to make them grow in London. The things that grow strikingly well are always best to have, and so I find that by planting a good many one soon discovers which will suit one best. At the present season my wild flowers are watered daily with a rose, but the watering- pot is held low so as not unnecessarily to wet the upper leaves and knock off the flowers. tntxd Uotitts. Golden Hamburgh Grape. — The merits of this grape having been so ably vindicated of late, it is like carrying coals to Newcastle to say any- thing more in its favor; but having two vines of it, grafted upon the Black Hamburgh three years ago, I can, from experience, bear full testimony to Mr. Barron's suggestion, that grown in this way — with me at least — it is entirely free from the demerits ascribed to it in your last week's paper by 660 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. " audi alteram partem." The two vines first mentioned are growing in an early vinery, along with Black Hamburghs, and receive exactly the same treatment as is usually given in all good gardens, to have Black Hamburgh ripe by the first week in May. The vines are planted in an outside border, thoroughly protected from cold and wet, and by such means, for the last two years, I have had a first-rate crop of Golden Hamburgh grapes, the bunches being large, plump, and well shaped, and averaging over 2 pounds each — several weighed over 4 pounds ; the berries were large, of a fine amber color, and in flavor as good as a Black Hamburgh; in fact the Golden Hamburgh is a first-class grape, and the admiration of all who saw and tasted it here during these last two years. — [Gard. Chron.) Large Pampas Grass — A plant of this beautiful grass, in the Archball Gardens, Ireland, had this year 122 flower stems. Last year it had 63. 1 he plant is about 33 feet in circumference. It had received ^o stimulant, with the exception of one watering of soapsuds. — [Gard. Chron ) Culture of Gladioli. — The large amount of attraction produced every eeason by these spl